Blaze Page 26

  She lifted a single eyebrow and nodded. “To keep me sane.” The laugh was followed by a groan. “To allow me to feel peace.”

  “I hope that you can.” Easing her over his lap, he took a deep breath and caressed her ass.

  There was no fight, no back talking or struggling to keep her in place. She assumed the required position, her palms on the floor, her head hanging low.

  He could hear her breath sounds. This was so intimate for both of them and even in the moments of horror, the fear and worry, they’d drawn closer. How could he have almost lost her? “Let me think. Thirty. Then there might be another round.”

  “Ugh! I mean, yes, sir.”

  He bit back a laugh and pressed one hand on the small of her back.

  Smack! Crack!

  “Oooh…” The moan was almost peaceful.

  Pop! Slap!

  Boone held his breath. For some reason, this was more cathartic than before.

  Smack! Pop!

  Stasha shifted, wiggling back and forth on his lap.

  His cock was already stirring.

  Whap! Crack!

  He peppered her ass with hard spanks, one after the other.

  Smack! Pop! Crack! Slap!

  She continued to undulate her hips, shifting back and forth, small murmurs floating up from the floor.

  Whap! Crack!

  “You are one bad girl teasing me,” he whispered, the tone hoarse. She was driving him into a second heated frenzy.

  Smack! Pop!

  “Yes, sir.”

  He held back a laugh and rubbed her ass, enjoying the building redness. “Four more.”

  “Yes, sir.”

  Smack! Crack! Slap! Pop!

  “Oh!” The sound was more of a purr of disappointment.

  Boone eased her onto his lap, capturing her mouth. He cupped her breast, rubbing her nipple as the kiss turned more heated. When he broke the kiss, he shook his head. “What am I going to do with you?”

  “I have thoughts if you have the time.” Winking, she laughed as she brushed the tip of a single finger around his lips and the cleft of his chin.

  “Hmmm…” He studied the light level and snorted. “We have time before either one of us has to get to work. Easing her to her feet, he gripped her shoulders. “But bad girls should be careful what they ask for.”

  “Meaning?”

  “Meaning…” He placed a finger across his mouth. “Be right back. Stay there.” Whistling, he walked into the bedroom, grabbing his belt. He sniffed the leather before folding the strap and walking back into the living room. “You’re coming with me.”

  “And just where are you taking me?” she teased, giving him a heated expression.

  “You’ll see,” he whispered as he took her hand and led her to the locked door leading to the clinic. She’d kept the clinic closed since the attack and the subsequent arrest of her former technician, but she was determined to open today, even for a little while.

  “You wouldn’t dare,” she huffed and tried to pull away.

  He tugged her out the door, heading down the back hall toward an examination room. “Yes, I would.” After opening the door and ushering her inside, he pointed to the stainless-steel examination table. “I think you know what to do?”

  Her eyes were sparkling but she darted two anxious looks toward the door leading to the reception area. “This could be very bad.”

  “Then you’ll have to learn to be very good.”

  “Yes, sir.” She wrinkled her nose and leaned over the table, gripping the other side.

  “This room just might have to be re-designated as the punishment room.”

  Stasha kicked out her legs. “You have a terrible imagination.”

  “I think it’s very good.”

  Smack!

  The echo astounded him, and he couldn’t help but smile. “Yes, perfect room.”

  Crack!

  “Oh!” She jerked up, trying her best to look over her shoulder.

  “Stay in position, my dear.”

  Slap! Crack!

  The strap hit her perfectly across the sit spot. He could tell by the welts that she would have difficulty sitting all throughout the day.

  Smack! Pop!

  “Ooh…” she moaned and pressed her face against the cool metal.

  Crack! Crack!

  There was nothing quite like the sound and his cock was already throbbing, hard and ready and he wanted to be inside, filling her with cum.

  Smack! Pop!

  The cracking sound was a powerful aphrodisiac and he was shaking, his heart racing.

  Whap! Crack!

  “Oh, my.”

  Whack! Whoosh!

  He could take no more. Dropping the belt, he moved behind Stasha, gripping her hips and thrusting his cock deep into her pussy. “God! I love being inside of you.”

  “Mmm… Aren’t you horny this morning?” She pushed up from the table, laughing in a seductive manner.

  “Always around you.” Pulling out, he held just the tip inside. “Can you image what people would say if they saw us like this?”

  “They’d be terrified.”

  He drove into her again, the force pushing her hard against the table. “I think they’d love to watch, maybe even learn a few things.” Nipping her shoulder, he growled under his breath as he ground his hips against her.

  “Mmm… Maybe we should open the doors,” she whispered and clamped her pussy muscles around his cock.

  “Wicked. You are one wicked lady.” Boone plunged in and out, the sound of skin hitting skin louder than normal. He was so turned on. “Imagine that sweet little receptionist of yours finding us. Can you image what she’d be thinking?” He pumped in slow and even strokes.

  “That her boss was a shameless hussy?”

  “Something like that.”

  “What about your friends?” Panting, Stasha arched her back.

  Harder and faster he thrust. “They’d ask for more.”

  “And would you let them?”

  “Watch? Maybe. Touch you? I’d cut off their hands.” Boone chuckled darkly as he dug his fingers into her hips. He rose onto the balls of his feet, using the power of his thigh muscles to drive in controlled actions. When she clenched again, laughing, he pulled all the way out. Opening her ass cheeks, he shoved his dick inside her asshole.

  “Oh!”

  “As I said, be careful, little girl. I think I need to tame you.” He could sense she was tensing, pulling back. Slowing down, he kissed across the back of her neck. “Am I hurting you?”

  “No. You never hurt me. It’s just…”

  “Should I stop?”

  She shook her head. “No. Please don’t.”

  Keeping his lips pressed against her skin, he picked up the pace, sliding his cock in and out. He was on edge, beads of sweat dripping down the back of his neck. He closed his eyes, savoring the moment, enjoying the stolen time spent with her. When he heard her breath sounds becoming scattered, he released. “My baby.”

  When he pulled her into against his chest, crossing his arms over her in a protective manner, he could swear she was crying.

  And he had no idea how to help her heal.

  Stasha swirled her finger around the steaming cup of coffee. Her thoughts continued to drift, going over the time spent at the house and inside the cage. They hadn’t talked much about the event, although she was aware the sheriff had told Boone everything. While making love and the spankings had been incredible, she’d almost shut down. He didn’t deserve to be forced to deal with a damaged woman.

  She had two choices. End the relationship or talk to him. The right one she was no longer certain of. She’d gone to sleep determined to share with him the year of torture, to open up completely, but now, she wasn’t entirely certain.

  Her lunch with Trinity had been a nice gesture and by the end of their time together, she had been so certain of what to do. Why was she hesitating?

  “You should have joined me in the shower.” Boone
leaned over, licking the side of her face.

  “Then you would never be able to get to work on time.”

  He shook his head and grabbed a cup, pouring coffee, remaining quiet.

  “Are you worried about today?” she asked, doing her best to drag her mind out of the ugly black space.

  Easing onto the chair, he frowned. “I don’t know really. Yes. No. Maybe. The challenge is good for my career and a real opportunity for the team, but the rest of the jumpers don’t know. I have no idea how they’ll react.”

  Reaching over, she took his hand. “They trust and respect you. You’re going to do great today. Just believe in yourself like I do.”

  Boone brought her hand to his lips, kissing tenderly. “You’re quite the amazing lady.” When she pulled her hand away, he shrugged. “I wish you’d trust me enough to talk about what happened in San Francisco. I’m here to listen and you know I won’t judge.”

  While she wanted to believe him, she had far too many reservations to get into anything now. “Let’s talk about something else.”

  He took a sip of coffee. “Okay. Do you have any patients today?”

  “I honestly don’t know. Megan is a tough taskmaster. Besides, I have to hire a new technician. I can’t believe that Shaun was involved with that woman, Katrina or Candy or whatever her real name is.” She could see a cloud forming over his eyes. “But, I’ll be happy to have a normal day.” What she’d found out about Shaun from the sheriff had been eye opening. To think he’d been through her things more than once, and leaving the threats? She swallowed hard at the thought.

  “I know.” He checked his watch. “I should get going. Why don’t we go out to dinner tonight? You know, a real date?”

  She’d been anticipating his question. “Boone. This is the worst time for me to say this, but I need some time alone. Is there anyone you can stay with just for tonight?”

  Hesitating, he pushed his coffee away. “I don’t think you should be alone. Not now.”

  “I’ll be fine. I doubt that Drake or his sister are anywhere close to Missoula.”

  “I’m going to worry.”

  “I know, but I’ll call you and check in. Okay? Just tonight.” Stasha realized her hand was shaking.

  He studied her face, his eyes filled with sadness. “Okay.” Rising to his feet, he grabbed the coffee cup then stopped short. “I don’t want to lose you. Whatever happened must have been horrible, but we can start a new life together. I want to share everything with you. We can rebuild the ranch together however you like. The place will be ours.”

  The offer was so amazing, so beautiful but she was no longer certain of what she wanted. “We’ll talk. Promise.”

  “Sure.” He grabbed his bag and walked toward the door, turning slightly as if longing to say something.

  When he shook his head and walked out the door, she had a terrible feeling that she was never going to see him again. Dropping her head into her hands, she allowed herself to cry.

  Chapter 16

  All right men. Here’s the way today is going to play out,” Captain Phillips called out, walking back and forth in front of the Jackals as well as the Rattlesnakes. “Captain Michaels and I have talked about the game plan. We have divided you into several teams. You can check the lists in just a few minutes. Teams A, B and C will go up in the plane, one right after the other. You’ll be taken to the ridge, parachuting down from there. Then you’re going to hike, ladies and gentlemen down the trail with your packs.”

  “Ugh,” came the collective groan from the group.

  “Who said anything about a hike?” a lone voice asked.

  Captain Phillips held up his hands. “No discussion. The Wildland Commissioner is here to watch over the proceedings. We need to do this right. If there is any problem with the parachutes, we need to know immediately.”

  “What about the rest of the teams?” Moose stepped up, his voice ringing loud.

  “Teams D, E and F have a special treat today. And before you ask, names were selected at random.” The captain kept his look stern as he glanced around the group. “We have an opportunity to acquire a helicopter and if it’s commissioned, it will be housed at the Jackal hanger but used by both teams. As you know, helicopters are equipped with Helitorches. These firing devices are damn helpful in starting fires that we as jumpers can’t do from the ground. The exercises today are merely a taste of what can be done. This is vital for us. Vital.”

  “What?” Riker asked.

  “When did this come up?” Antonio moved closer. “And why wasn’t I told?”

  “Need to know basis, son,” the Wildland Commissioner stated.

  “We don’t have a pilot.” Stoker stated as he walked up with his gear, a grin on his face.

  “Hey, hey. If it isn’t the new father!” Zane called, whistling.

  Stoker shook several hands as he walked closer, his face beaming. “Sorry I’m late, Captain. Jessica is due to be released from the hospital in a couple of hours.”

  Captain Phillips shook his head. “The excuse is… more than acceptable. This time. Congratulations, Stoker. Please give Jessica my best.”

  “I will, sir.” Stoker dropped his bag and moved in line. “But, sir, the statement stands. We don’t have a pilot. I don’t think the Rattlesnakes do.”

  Several of the other crew shook their heads. “Not one we know of.” The man stepped forward. “Johnny Mosby. I’m in charge of the crew now.”

  Captain Phillips grinned. “We have a licensed pilot in our midst, or at least he will be after today. Smokejumper Martin? Please step forward.”

  Boone’s hands were shaking as he walked forward, his eyes sweeping the crew as well as the other team. There was shock registered as well as admiration, at least from a few. Antonio, on the other hand, was pissed. “Captain Phillips.”

  “Boone is going to be running the helicopter today. He’ll take you to Whitestone Ridge for a drop. Given this one is different, he’ll be circling back to pick up the team. This is an important step for us and one we don’t take lightly. Be on your best behavior and for this run, Mr. Martin is in charge. Am I clear?”

  There were several mumbles, a few curse words and other men and women simply shaking their heads. He was no longer certain he could do this. His hands were clammy, his heart racing and if the same thing happened as the last solo run, he wouldn’t be able to get through the practice.

  “I said. Am. I. Clear?” Captain Phillips shouted.

  “Yes, sir!”

  The voices rattled, and Boone had to close his eyes.

  “Good. Now, you have fifteen minutes to check on the assignments and get to the take-off zones. Follow orders and we’ll be done in four hours or so.” Captain Phillips remained with Boone, his hands behind his back.

  “You old dog, you. Jesus. Is this what you’ve been doing on your days off?” Garcia chortled. “I knew you were taking lessons but for this? Wow.”

  Boone shrugged, feeling the heat rising on his neck and face.

  “A damn steer roper, rider and now this? What else do you have hidden?” Landen winked.

  “Next, he’s going to take over as boss,” Riker offered.

  Antonio snorted as he walked closer. “He’s not capable of running a team.”

  The words hung in the air, the sentiment clear. Antonio was threatened.

  “I’m not trying to run it. I only want to help.” Boone looked him directly in the eyes, refusing to blink.

  “Jesus, Giovanni. Cut the shit. He’s doing this as a requirement,” Steel hissed.

  Antonio shot Steel a look before storming off.

  “Don’t worry about him, son. Just do your job.” Captain Phillips offered a handshake. “You okay? Ready to do this after the horrific experience?”

  “Ready, sir.” Boone was anything but.

  “Good man. Really proud of you. If you have any trouble, Rock is your contact.” The captain pointed to a man standing in the wings. “He knows his shit and will be there to g
uide you. Trust him.”

  “Will do, sir.” Why was his heart in his throat? Stasha. Everything was crashing down on him. However, he couldn’t afford to think this way. Not today. Lives depended on him. The concept was crushing.

  “Come on, jumper. I’ll walk you through the basics.” Rock motioned for him.

  Boone nodded and headed in the direction. He stopped long enough to give the captain as well as the rest of his team a nod of respect. He could only pray to God that no one died today.

  Not on his watch.

  As Rock began to talk, going over various details about the flight plan, he could tell that several members of the other team were looking at him, even whispering. He had to ignore it. Whatever their beef was their problem.

  “All right. Just keep the throttle at a slow and even speed and you won’t have any issue. There are no wind shears today, so you shouldn’t have any issues. Just remember the goal, drop ‘em, roll around the mountain and back.” Rock continued to talk as they walked through the crowd.

  “He’s the one with that whore for a girlfriend.” The whisper was hoarse.

  “Thinks he’s all that too. My guess is she’s damn good in bed,” another male voice said then laughed.

  “What a fuckin’ loser,” still another said.

  Bristling, Boone clenched his fists then moved in their direction. Before he could confront them, Moose, Zane and Steel appeared, taking a fighting stance as they faced the three other men.

  “You got something to say? You say it to me. Boone Martin is a man of honor, which is more than I can say for any of you.” Moose stood at his full height, his shoulders flared, his hands clenched.

  Zane and Steel folded their arms, their feet wide apart.

  Several of the others gathered around.

  Boone shook his head. “They’re not worth it, guys. They have little or no talent in any department.” As he allowed his gaze to fall to the asshole’s crotches, the entire group burst into laughter.