Explore Fictional Worlds-LQ13 Facebook ad: “one click to continue reading”

About this ad

Meta Ad Library ID

1220841949999090

Platforms

Facebook, Instagram, Audience Network, Messenger and Threads

Relaunches

0

Niche

Supplements & Wellness

How we count

Ad text

CHAPTER ONE Danielle I STARED DOWN at my dashboard console and willed the check engine light to stop the infernal red glow. How I got where I was, I had no freaking clue, which meant I had no freaking clue how to find the freeway entrance to get home. “You are an idiot, Dani,” I whispered out loud. As if on a mission from the devil, my nineteen ninety-nine Honda shuddered, then back-fired, slowing to a crawl as I inched forward down a non-descript side street. Why Portland didn’t have better signage was beyond me. I jumped as my cell phone pealed in the silence of the car. Without looking at the screen, because really, I was trying not to end up dead in some obscure place I’d never been before, I flipped it open. “Hello,” I whispered. “Why are we whispering?” Kim, my best friend of more than ten years, whispered back. I cleared my throat and took a deep breath. “I’m kind of lost and my stupid car won’t go over nineteen miles an hour.” “So, no different than any other day,” she quipped. “How did the date go?” “Sucked.” “How bad?” she asked. “Getting my eyeballs plucked out by crows, while my fingernails were ripped off one-by-one would have been much more enjoyable kind of bad,” I ground out. “Ew, sorry honey,” Kim commiserated. “Did you stay and have dinner with him?” “No. I endured one drink and an appetizer and then faked a phone call. Seriously, Kimmie, the guy was a douche.” “So, online dating’s not for you?” “Dating, period is not for me.” Kim chuckled. “Where are you?” “I have no freaking clue,” I admitted. “Somewhere in Arbor Lodge I think?” “Holy crap, girl, you don’t want to be lost there when it’s almost dark.” “Thanks, Captain Obvious.” I leaned forward to get a better view out of the windshield. “It’s totally deserted, and I can’t find a street sign to save my life.” “What’s around you?” “Nothing.” I squinted trying to make out the light in front of me. The area was heavily commercial, so I wasn’t sure what business would be open past eight on a Wednesday night. “I think I see something. Crap. My contacts are killing me.” “Pull over and take them out, silly. You have your glasses with you, right?” “Yeah, but I don’t want to stop, Kimmie… what if I can’t get started again?” “What if you can’t see what you’re about to hit?” “Stop being so logical,” I ground out. Kim sighed. “Please, Dani, be safe. Pull over, put on your glasses, and call your brother.” “Fine. I’m pulling over. Hold please.” Guiding my car to the curb, I put it in park. “Okay. I’m gonna hang up and call Elliot.” “Good. Call me when—” The phone went dead. “Crap.” I took a second to pull out my contacts and slide on my glasses, before I glanced in my side mirror and put the car in drive again. “Okay, old lady, please get me somewhere I can find a phone.” I inched out into the street again and rolled about three hundred feet before my car let out a sputter and a hiss and the engine died. “Okay. It’s okay,” I chanted. “We’ve been here before, girl. You can do it.” I cranked the engine and although it turned over, I couldn’t get it to fully engage. I tried again, got it started, but had barely pulled further to the side of the road when it died...again. “No, no, no, no!” I cranked the engine again, but still no luck, so I put it in park. Grabbing my purse off the floor, I rummaged around for my phone charger, finding it and plugging it into the lighter, hoping for enough juice to call my brother. I pushed every button on my phone in an effort to power it up again, but it had been losing its charge quicker and quicker over the past few weeks and it was now officially dead. “Damn it!” I dropped my head to the steering wheel and took a minute to feel sorry for myself as I imagined the six-o’clock news headline, “Young woman murdered after car breaks down in sketchy area of Portland. It’s surprising since she comes from law-enforcement royalty. Another statistic? It certainly looks that way.” I’m not entirely sure how long I sat in my dead car and imagined my murder and death before a knock at my window had me squeaking in fright. I glanced out to see an extraordinarily gorgeous man leaning down with a sexy smile on his face. Tall with darkish hair, blue eyes, and a face that could only be described as beautiful, he looked quite a bit like Charlie Hunnam with a full beard and nose ring. He wore a pair of faded jeans that looked like they were made for him, a white thermal, tight-fitting shirt that showcased his muscular chest a bit too well, causing my heart to race and my breathing to catch. A black leather jacket that cemented his sexy as hell look completed the ensemble. I cranked my window part of the way down… he couldn’t kill me if he could only get his fingers inside, right? “You lost, darlin’?” he asked. His voice washed over me and I squirmed in my seat as I tried not to sigh at the slight southern twang. “Um, yeah. A little.” “Not a great part of town for a pretty girl to get lost in.” He straightened, crossing his arms. “You got someone comin’ for you?” I squeezed my eyes shut and shook my head. “Both my car and my phone are dead. So, that would be a big fat no.” “Alright. Why don’t you come with me?” “No, that’s okay.” He smiled again. “Sweetheart, my club’s yard is right down the block. I’ll get some of my brothers to push your car into the lot where it’ll be safe, and we can fix it for you tomorrow. In the meantime, you can get out of the cold and either make a phone call or I’ll take you home.” I bit my lip and pondered my options. The definite probability of dying of starvation and exposure before morning, or the potential of being murdered by the best looking man I’d ever seen were pretty much all I could come up with. “No one will hurt you, if that’s what concerns you,” he promised. “I wish that made me feel better,” I admitted. “I mean, I wonder how many women have gone off with some tall, gorgeous man because he said he wouldn’t hurt them, only to be murdered? Super murdered. We’d never know, right? ’Cause they’re dead. Like as in dead, dead, not a little dead, but a lot dead.” His mouth quivered for a second before he burst out in laughter. “You’ve got a point, darlin’, but if you’re with me, no one’ll touch you.” “Including you?” He sobered, but his eyes were still sparkling with humor. “If that’s what you want.” I rolled the window back up and grabbed my purse and keys. I had a feeling I’d regret this sudden trust I was feeling toward him, but I didn’t really have much of a choice other than to let him help me, so I unlocked my door and climbed out of the car. He held it for me and slammed it closed once I was on the sidewalk. I’d locked it before he closed it, not that it mattered… no one would steal a piece of crap car like mine and I kept nothing of value in it. The wind had picked up since I left the restaurant, and I pulled my coat further around me as we walked down the street. “I’m Danielle, by the way. Um, Dani, actually.” “Booker.” “Nice to meet you, Mr. Booker.” “Just Booker.” “Oh. Okay.” He smiled. “You mentioned your club’s yard.” I frowned. “What kind of yard?” “This location’s our wreck ’n’ tow yard. Got other businesses in other locations,” he said vaguely. “Anything with an engine, we can tow, fix or build.” I nodded. “And you said ‘club.’ I’m assuming it’s not a sewing club, right?” Booker smiled. “Motorcycle club.” I stopped. It took him a minute to realize I was no longer beside him, which gave me a partial view of the back of his jacket. Dogs of something. Dogs of Wonder? No, that wouldn’t be right… a badass motorcycle guy wouldn’t have Dogs of Wonder on the back of his jacket. Well, crap! He walked back toward me. “You okay?” “Motorcycle club?” I asked. He nodded. “Like Hell’s Angels?” Booker smirked. “In theory.” “Crap.” I glanced up at him. “I really should go.” CHAPTER TWO Danielle “Go where, darlin’? There’s nothing around here for over a mile in any direction.” “Clarify something for me. Are you a club because you have really nice bikes and like to hang out and drink beer on occasion, or are you like outlaws or something?” “Since that’s club business, it’s none of yours.” “Right.” I couldn’t seem to stop swallowing convulsively. “Just point me in the direction of the closest place I can make a phone call and I’ll get out of your hair.” “About twenty-five yards in front of you.” “You don’t understand,” I whispered. “I can’t go in there.” “Why the hell not?” “Because my dad’s the freakin’ chief of police,” I snapped, before realizing I’d just spouted off something that could get me killed or kidnapped in a heartbeat, depending on whose hands that information was in. “You’re shittin’ me.” I shook my head. “I wish I was.” “Well, fuck me.” “No thank you,” I quipped. Retorts were my specialty, especially when I was nervous. He cocked his head. “You wouldn’t be disappointed, babe.” I pressed my lips into a thin line, willing my mouth to stay shut. Booker chuckled. “The shop’s clean, sweetheart. Totally legit, although, probably better I take you home than you have your daddy pick you up.” “It would be my brother, actually… or Kimmie. Kim’s my best friend. Not that you care who my best friend is.” I took a deep breath, rambling was not a good option right now. He smiled again. God, he had a nice smile. Of course, it was the panty-dropping kind, but for now, I wouldn’t react…my undies must stay firmly in place. “There’s only six of us here right now, so we’ll get your car into the lot, get your info, and I’ll take you home.” I swallowed. “I should call my brother.” “Then we’ll get your car into the lot and you can call your brother.” I nodded and let him lead me through a large parking lot surrounded by eight-foot high fencing complete with barbed-wire on top. I followed him into the warmth of a sparse but clean waiting area. It looked like the waiting room in my local oil change place, which for whatever reason surprised me. I’m not sure what I was expecting. Maybe centerfolds from Playboy circa 1984 plastered on the walls? “Phone’s on the counter,” Booker said. “Dial nine for an outside line.” I nodded and picked up the phone, dialing as he opened a door and yelled, “Mack! Need you in the front.” “Hello?” Kim answered, sounding confused. “Kimmie, hey it’s me,” I whispered. “Ohmigod, Dani!” I could hear the sounds of the restaurant she worked at in the background. “I was worried sick. I take it your cell phone died again?” “Yeah.” I glanced to my right and could see Booker talking with someone across the room out of earshot. “It’s officially dead, dead.” “Where are you calling me from?” she asked. “Um, some wrecking place I managed to break down in front of.” “Of course you did,” Kimmie said with a chuckle. “Did you call Ell?” “Um, I can’t.” “How come?” “The shop is owned by a motorcycle club,” I whispered, and glanced at the door again to make sure Booker wasn’t listening. “So?” she whispered back. “Hello, I’ve seen that Sam Crow show… they’re not entirely above board.” Kim burst out laughing, the tell-tale snort indicating she was unable to control her mirth. “Kimmie,” I snapped. “Ohmigod, Dani, you are precious. Truly,” she said, and laughed again. “Oh, shut up,” I ground out. “You know if I call Elliot, he’ll get all—” “Dani? Keys, babe,” Booker demanded. I jumped a little because I hadn’t seen him walk back over to me. “Um, hold on a sec,” I said to Kim, and rummaged in my purse. Winding the car key from the rest of my keys, I handed it to him, and he nodded then left me again. “Okay, I’m back.” “Who was that?” Kim asked. “One of the men who works here.” “Um, he knew your name and he called you babe,” she pointed out. “I’m thinking you’re being purposely obtuse.” “His name’s Booker,” I said. “He sounds delicious.” “Meh,” I lied. “Call Elliot, Dani. Or I can come get you when I get off in an hour.” “No,” I said with a sigh. “I’ll call Ell.” “Good. Borrow his phone and call me when you get home, okay? I’ve gotta grab my orders.” “I will.” I was midway through dialing my brother when Booker returned, so I hung up and forced a smile. “You call your brother or friend or whoever?” he asked. “Kim. Yes. She’s still at work. I was just about to call my brother.” “Why don’t you do that and then you can give me some information while we wait for him.” I nodded and picked up the phone again. I got his voicemail. “Hey Ell, it’s me. I broke down in Portland and was wondering if you could come get me. I’m at…,” I glanced up at Booker for assistance, and he handed me a card. I rattled off the address and phone number of Big Ernie’s Wreck ’n’ Tow, and then hung up again. “Voicemail.” “Picked up on that, babe,” he said. My cheeks heated. “Right.” Booker stepped behind the counter and handed me a piece of paper with Big Ernie’s logo on it. “Write down your address and phone number and I’ll call you when we know what’s wrong with your car.” “Are you planning to wreck it?” He smiled and shook his head. “We’ll tow it over to the auto repair shop and fix it there.” “One of the other businesses, I presume?” “Yeah.” I nodded. “I won’t be able to answer, but you can leave a message and I’ll call you with a good number.” He nodded and I scribbled down my information. I couldn’t imagine what the repairs on my car would be, but as a kindergarten teacher, I could pretty much guarantee they’d be out of my budget. I jumped again when the phone rang… I was seriously wound up with nerves that only a bottle of merlot was going to come close to calming. “Big Ernie’s,” Booker said, and then smiled at me. “Yeah, she’s here.” He handed me the phone. “Hello?” I said. “How the hell did you end up at a scrap yard in Arbor Lodge?” Elliot demanded. I watched distractedly as Booker and three other men walked outside and toward where I left my car. “No clue,” I admitted. “I was in the Pearl and thought I was going toward Vancouver, but I guess not.” “For someone so smart, your sense of direction is pathetic.” “Yes, I’m well aware,” I grumbled. “Where’s your phone?” he asked. “Dead.” I sighed. “Like as in dead, dead.” “I’m buying you a new one.” “You don’t need to do that,” I argued… for the umpteenth time. “I know, sis, but your stubbornness is starting to mess with my schedule,” he said. I smiled. I loved my brother, even when he was annoying. “Starting to?” He chuckled. “I’m in the middle of something; can you hang out for a while?” “No, it’s fine. I’ll grab a cab.” “Which will cost you the same as a phone,” he said. “Point taken big brother.” I wrinkled my nose. “I greatly thank you for your astute observation.” “Grab a cab to the station and I’ll drive you home from there.” “No, it’s fine. I’ll head home.” “Dani,” he said with a sigh. “Elliot,” I mimicked, and smiled. “Seriously. It’s all good. I promised I’d call you and I called you. I might work with five-year-olds, but I’m not one, so don’t worry.” “Oh, you’re funny. Are you sure you’re okay?” “Yes, I’m fine. Swing by later if you want. I’m just going home. I have to be at work early tomorrow, so it’ll be an early night for me.” “How about I grab you a burner and then I’ll order you a decent phone later.” “Thanks, Ell. I’ll pay you back,” I said. “We can argue about that later. I have to go.” “Okay, ’bye.” I hung up and slipped behind the desk in search of a phonebook. CHAPTER THREE Danielle “YOU NEED SOMETHIN’ darlin’?” I jumped (again) and turned to find myself practically chin to navel with the very large man Booker had been speaking to earlier. I looked up and grimaced. He was blond with deep blue eyes and he looked intense. “Hi. I’m Dani.” “Hi, Dani,” he said, and smiled. “Hi,” I repeated, stepping back for space, but only managing to run into the lip of the desk. I refused to wince in his presence, but I did bite the inside of my cheek hard enough to draw blood. “You said that.” “Um, yeah. I did. Great observation skills.” Ohmigod, he is not a five-year-old. Get it together, Dani. “Um, sorry if I wasn’t supposed to be back here, I was looking for a phonebook.” “You’re looking for a phonebook,” he said, and stepped closer to me. “Yes. A phonebook. Do you have one? I need to call a cab. Can you back up a bit, please?” I mean, really. Where the hell was I going to go? He’d just boxed me into a corner. I took a deep breath. “You need to call a cab,” he said, his voice low and raspy. I let out a frustrated sigh. “Yes, I need to call a cab.” “What about an Uber or a Lyft?” “My phone’s dead,” I explained. “But even if it wasn’t, it’s too old for the app, and my brother can’t pick me up. He’s still at the station.” Why did I feel the need to offer so much information? “Station? Like a train station?” “No.” Mack frowned. “As in police station?” Crap! I bit my lip. “Will you please let me by? You’re making me nervous and all I want to do is call someone to pick me up and take me home.” “I’ll take you home,” Booker said as he walked back inside, a scowl on his face directed at “big biker man” in front of me. “And get the hell away from her, Mack. You can see she’s freaked.” “Did she tell you her brother’s a cop?” Mack demanded. “Detective, actually,” I corrected and then dropped my head. I needed to shut the hell up. “Move the hell away from her,” Booker repeated. I took a minute to look at him and his expression was a little scary. He gave his friend a look like he would kill him if he didn’t do as he said. Instead of making me nervous, it made me feel protected. Another clear indication there was something inherently wrong with me. Mack grinned, raising his hands in surrender as he stepped away from me. I skittered around the desk and back out in the open, keeping my purse in front of me… for what I’m not sure. I just felt a little protected somehow. “Come on. I’ll take you home,” Booker said. “No, it’s okay. If you can just call me a cab, it’ll be fine.” Booker shook his head. “We’re closed, darlin’, and it’ll take a while for a taxi, so let me just take you home.” I swallowed. “What?” he asked. I glanced at Mack and then back at Booker. “Um… aren’t bikes really dangerous?” Booker seemed to share another secret look with Mack before they both burst out laughing. I pulled my purse closer. “Well, if you’re going to stand there and laugh at me, then I definitely want to call a cab.” Apparently, I’m freaking hilarious when I’m scared out of my ever-blessed mind, because Mack laughed harder. “I’ve got my truck,” Booker said, once he’d sobered. “With or without a shovel and a tarp in the back?” Booker frowned. “What?” “Nothing. Never mind.” I figured if he was going to murder me there wasn’t a whole hell of a lot I could do about it at this point. “Yes, a ride home would be much appreciated.” Booker nodded and waved his hand toward the roll-up door. “Nice to meet you,” I said to Mack, and headed outside. “You too, babe,” Mack said to my back. Booker led me to his Ford F-150, and I turned to face him. “Can I borrow your phone please?” “What?” “Your phone. May I borrow it for a second?” He reached into his pocket and handed it to me. “Knock yourself out.” I stepped in front of the truck and took a photo of it, along with the license plate, texting the photos to Kim so she’d know who was driving me home and when I was leaving. At least if he did murder me, they’d be able to track down my killer. “Thanks,” I said, and handed the phone back to him. He smiled his sexy smile again and pulled open my door. I wasn’t expecting his gallantry as he waited for me to climb inside, but I covered my surprise. I didn’t realize badass biker men did that kind of thing. Booker climbed in beside me and started the engine while I buckled up. He didn’t say anything as he guided the truck away from Arbor Lodge and I took a moment to take in his ride. It was new with all the bells and whistles, so to speak. Leather seats, wood inlay, and a kick-ass stereo system… at least it looked like a kick-ass stereo system. It was currently off. About ten minutes passed and I had about all the silence I could handle. “Your real name’s not Booker, is it?” He glanced at me and shook his head before focusing on the road again. “Are you going to tell me your real name?” “Austin Carver.” “Oh,” I said, unable to hide my surprise. He smiled. “Not what you were expecting?” “Not really, no. Don’t get me wrong, it’s a nice name. Sweet sounding, but I guess I expected you to be Maverick or something like that.” “Maverick?” “What’s wrong with Maverick?” “Only a pussy would ever go by Maverick.” “What if that’s the name his parents gave him?” I challenged. “Then, if he weren’t a pussy, he’d change it.” I bit back a smile. “I won’t tell Maverick’s mom you said that.” “You know a Maverick?” he asked. I nodded. “He’s one of my kids. I teach kindergarten.” “Fuck me. Of course you do,” he grumbled, and pulled onto the freeway. I gathered my purse close to me again. For some reason, the fact he didn’t seem to like my choice of employment bothered me. It shouldn’t. He didn’t know me, and he was probably a criminal for Pete’s sake, but I was the one who felt embarrassed. CHAPTER FOUR Danielle “What’s your group’s name?” I soldiered on, my inability to stay silent when I was nervous working against me. “My group?” He raised an eyebrow. “Your club. Whatever.” He studied the road again. “Dogs of Fire.” “Why did you pick that?” I asked. “I didn’t.” “Why did your group… I mean, club, pick that?” Booker shrugged. “Don’t know.” “You don’t know why they picked it?” I studied his profile and saw his jaw lock. “Sorry, not my business.” He neither agreed nor disagreed. “Do you need my address?” I was unbelievably desperate for conversation, apparently. “I have it.” “Right,” I mumbled. Of course he did. I’d written it down for him. I studied him again. God, he was beautiful. I licked my lips and focused back on the road. “So, do you work at Big Ernie’s?” “Sometimes.” “So, it’s not your regular job?” “No.” “You’re obviously not a mechanic,” I mused. “Why do you say that?” “You’re too clean,” I blurted out. “I mean, your hands aren’t caked with black oil and stuff. Sorry. Never mind. It’s none of my business.” He chuckled. “What’s so funny?” I demanded. “You don’t like silence, do you?” “I like silence… just not when I’m nervous. Crap. Never mind. Ignore me.” “Babe, I’ve been trying to ignore you since the second I saw your piece of shit car crawling down my street,” he said. I gasped, my irritation rising to dance with my nerves. “Well, you didn’t need to come and rescue me. I didn’t ask you to.” He chuckled again and I blinked back tears, feeling both angry and insecure at the same time. “I’m sorry if my talking bugged you. I was just trying to be friendly,” I continued, because, seriously, I was obviously a glutton for punishment. “It’s what nice people do when other people help them. They ask them about their life and find common ground in an effort to make conversation.” “Is that what they do?” he asked. “Typically, yes,” I whispered, and turned toward the window. I managed to keep my thoughts to myself as we drove into Hazel Dell and down the private driveway into my apartment complex. Not the greatest part of town, but also not the worst. It was what I could afford and it worked for me now. “This is me,” I said, pointing to the stairway that led to my second-floor unit. He nodded. “I’ll walk you up.” “You don’t need to do that.” “I know,” he said, and climbed out of the truck. Gathering my purse, I pulled my jacket closer around me and pushed open the door. Booker stood on the other side and, again, waited for me before closing the door and walking me upstairs. I unlocked my apartment door and pushed it open, flipping the light on before stepping inside. “Thank you for everything,” I said. “I’ll call you tomorrow or Friday about your car.” Crap, right. I was going to have to pay for my stupid car to be fixed. “Yes. Um, I forgot to ask. Do you take credit cards?” He frowned, but then nodded his head. “Yeah, babe, we take credit cards.” I relaxed. “Okay, good. Thank you. Well, it was nice to meet you, Austin. Thanks again for everything.” He gave me a chin lift in response and turned and sauntered down the stairs. I know for a fact he sauntered, because I leaned out my front door and watched him leave. His long, muscular legs and perfect butt made me sigh, and I realized he probably heard me, so I ducked back inside and closed and locked my door, leaning against it to catch my breath. * * * Booker I was fucked. Royally fucked. The second I saw the pretty little blonde trying to force her car down the street, I’d known I’d help her. Couldn’t really stop myself. She was gorgeous. Petite, curvy, big tits, nice ass, and she smelled incredible, but it was the glasses that sent me over the edge. I could envision her in thigh-highs, pearls, and those glasses while she straddled and rode me. When I’d coaxed her out of her car and she’d started talking, her obvious sense of humor showing even though she was terrified, I’d watched in fascination as every emotion she was feeling showed on her face in real time. I couldn’t remember ever meeting a woman more beautiful… and fucking innocent. Kindergarten teacher and daughter of the chief of police. Shit. I dialed Mack’s number and then started my truck. “Yo.” “You got the car over to Hatch’s?” I asked. Hatch Wallace was our Sergeant at Arms and owned his own shop close by. We took all of our more difficult jobs to him because he was a genius with engines. “Yeah,” Mack said. “It’s fucked up. Might need to rebuild the engine.” “Shit.” I headed onto the freeway. “I’ll be there in twenty.” I hung up and stared out at the road in front of me trying to figure out how the hell I was gonna get out of this, and whether or not I really wanted to. CHAPTER FIVE Danielle MY BELL RANG an hour after Booker left. I opened the door to my brother who leaned down to kiss my cheek as he handed me a box with a phone inside and stepped into my apartment. My brother was tall, just over six feet, with blond hair and hazel eyes. My girlfriends all had crushes on him, waxing poetic about how much he looked like Brad Pitt. “Hi,” I said, and closed the door. “Hey. Where’s your car?” he asked. “It’s not in the lot.” “One of the guys at the wreckage place is having it towed somewhere to evaluate it. He’s going to call me tomorrow or Friday.” I glanced at the new phone. “Well, he’s going to leave me a message and I’ll call him back since he can’t really call me.” Elliot chuckled. “Got it, sis.” “I forget you’re smarter than you look.” I grinned. “Want some wine or a beer?” “I have to go, actually. Just wanted to make sure you got home safe. What time do you have to be at school tomorrow?” “Seven.” “Want me to pick you up?” “Oh, yes. Crap. I didn’t even think about how I was getting to work,” I admitted. “I’m a little frazzled.” He crossed his arms. “How was the blind date?” “Ohmigod, it sucked. So bad. He was boring with a capital B. He went on and on about the mating life of silkworms.” “You’d be well-dressed.” “I’d be dressed in stuff that was dry-clean only. Pass,” I retorted. Elliot chuckled. “I could set you up, you know.” “No,” I said quickly. “I’m done for now. I just want to focus on getting my life back and maybe saving again.” My brother’s face darkened. “Asshole.” “Yes, I know, Ell, but there’s nothing we can do about it. Em did all she could legally and he’s making restitution.” Our sister, Emily, was a lawyer and had been trying to deal with my issues from a legal standpoint for years. “A hundred bucks a month is bullshit.” “I agree. I’m hoping Emily can find more in his financials.” Elliot studied me for a few tense seconds. “Okay, I’m going. I’ll pick you up tomorrow at six-thirty.” “Thank you. You’re the best big brother on the planet.” He grinned, his body relaxing a bit. “Don’t I know it.” He gave me a quick hug and then he was out the door, and I locked up and flopped onto the sofa. I pried open the plastic wrapping containing the flip phone, plugged it in, powered it up and called Kim. “This is Kim.” “Hey, it’s me.” “Well, hello ‘me.’” Kim giggled. “Got your text. Brilliant.” “Thank you,” I said. “I assume you’re home and safe?” “No, I’m buried alive in a ditch on the side of the road.” “Oh, where? I’ll come rescue you.” I laughed. “I love how you’ve always got my back.” “I’m a giver,” she retorted. “On that note, can you give me the number I texted those pictures from, please?” “Ah, sure? But you have to tell me why.” “One of the guys said he’d call me tomorrow with an update on my car and I want to give him the new number.” “Hmm-mm, I bet you do,” she said. “Tell me the real reason.” I both loved and hated that my best friend could see right through me. “That is the real reason.” “Is he hot? Your ‘the guy’ that’s ‘one of the guys’?” Ohmigod… was he hot? That was an understatement. “He’s a thug, Kim.” “That’s not what I asked.” “Yes, he’s good looking… in a rough sort of way, I guess.” “Hmm-mm, right,” she retorted. “I’ll text it to you.” “Thanks.” “Do you need a ride tomorrow?” “You’re willing to come and get me at six-thirty?” She gasped. “In the morning? Ah, no. Sorry, I just don’t love you quite that much.” I giggled. “I know. Ell’s picking me up.” “Oh, how I love him.” “I know, babe. Everyone does.” “Okay, I’m gonna text you his number and then hit the hay.” “Thanks, Kim. See you on Tuesday for lunch, right?” “Definitely. ’Bye.” “’Bye.” I sat on the sofa staring at the phone for what seemed like an eternity before Kim’s text came through. The number popped up on my screen and my heart raced in excitement. It was just after ten and I was typically in bed by now and wondered if he might be too. Maybe he wouldn’t answer, and I could leave a message. I bit my lip. I didn’t really know what to do. I felt compelled to call him. Like if I didn’t hear his voice before I went to bed, I wouldn’t be able to sleep. “Dani, you are ridiculous,” I told myself, but it didn’t negate the fact that I was attracted to him. In a big way. I set the phone aside and sipped my wine, then picked the phone up again and stared at it. I set it aside again and repeated these actions for several minutes as I contemplated my stupidity. In the end, I chalked it up to the fact that he had my car and I was just calling him to give him information. It didn’t matter that it was past ten on a Thursday night. It was business, so I dialed the number. “Yo.” “Um, hi. Is this Austin?” I asked. No response, so I glanced at my phone, then put it back to my ear. Maybe I’d dialed wrong. “I’m sorry. I must have the wrong number.” “You got me, Dani.” His voice washed over me and sent a chill down my spine. “How did you know it was me?” I asked. He chuckled. “No one else calls me Austin.” “Oh. Right. Um, I just wanted you to have my new number for when you know what’s wrong with my car.” “And you had to tell me that now?” I was officially an idiot. “Well, no, I guess not. But it was either now or really early in the morning because I have to be at work at seven and I figured if you were asleep, you wouldn’t answer so I was going to leave a message. I didn’t expect you to pick up.” Crap, I was rambling again. “Got it, darlin’.” “Well, good. Okay. I’ll let you go.” “Probably a good idea.” I should have hung up. But as always, I was a glutton for punishment. “Why is it probably a good idea?” “Dani, I’m not the man for you.” I gasped. “Excuse me? I never said you were.” “You don’t have to say it out loud, babe. It’s written all over your face.” “It is not! Wow. Are you always this rude, or am I just lucky?” He chuckled and damn if I didn’t squirm a little at the sound. “Your car’s a piece of shit.” “I’m guessing it’s both,” I grumbled. “You really shouldn’t be driving it,” he continued, ignoring my astute observation. “Well, it’s all I can afford, so I don’t have much choice in the matter.” “Why is it all you can afford?” “Um, excuse me, Sir Rude-a-lot, that’s none of your business.” He chuckled again. I sat up straighter. “Well, have someone call me with how much it’s going to cost me to fix it and I’ll have someone drive me down to pick it up.” “Four-thousand, seven-hundred, ninety-two dollars is the current estimate,” he said. I choked. “What?” “Your engine’s pretty much shot, Dani.” “I don’t have that kind of money,” I whispered, blinking back tears. I tended to get a bit emotional when I was exhausted. “Pickin’ up on that, darlin’. Wonderin’ why.” I dropped my head back and stared at the ceiling. “If you must know, an ex stole my savings and my identity. I have spent the last four years trying to clear my name and get him prosecuted, and now I’m lucky enough to get a hundred bucks a month in restitution. He apparently spent the money he stole… or more likely, hid it… and spent thirty days in county. Bonus, he got three years’ probation. I, on the other hand, have a credit rating that’s in the toilet and have to use the credit card my daddy gave me in order to deal with emergencies, which this certainly is; however, I don’t really want him having to pay five-grand for a car that’s not even worth that much.” I groaned. I couldn’t believe I’d just shared all of that with a virtual stranger, particularly because outside of my family and the asshole who stole my money, Kim was the only other human being who knew the story. “Sorry. Too much information.” “How much did he steal?” Austin asked…no, demanded. “I’m sorry?” “How much did the asshole steal from you?” He sounded angry. “It’s not important,” I whispered. “Dani. How much did he steal?” “Fifty-four thousand, six-hundred, seventy-eight dollars and sixteen cents,” I blurted. “And that’s just what he took out of savings. He charged another sixty-grand to credit cards he opened in my name.” “Fuck me. Seriously?” “Seriously. I’d been saving for a house.” I felt tears slip down my cheeks as the memories of Steven’s betrayal flooded back. “Anyway, it’s not your problem. Um, I’ll talk to my dad and figure out what to do about my car. I really appreciate all your help. I’ll talk to you tomorrow. ’Bye.” I hung up and shoved my face into a throw pillow to scream. I didn’t have long to wallow in self-pity when the phone jingled in my hand. “Hello?” “What was the bastard’s name?” Austin demanded. “Excuse me?” “The asshole who stole your money. What’s his name?” “Why?” “Babe, what’s his name?” he repeated, his voice pitched low. “Steven.” “Steven what?” “No one.” “Dani, give me his fucking name.” “No,” I stressed. “It’s none of your business.” I heard him take a deep breath and then there was a knock at my door. I frowned. “I should go, there’s someone at my door.” “Yeah, you should open it, darlin’.” “I’m not opening my door at ten o’clock at night, Austin. Despite my persona, I’m not an idiot.” He chuckled. “Open it, babe.” CHAPTER SIX I frowned and rose to my feet, making my way to the door, and peeking through the peephole. I hung up with a sigh and opened the door. “What are you doing here?” Austin’s eyes did a full sweep of my body, and then he smiled and slid his hand to my neck. Pushing me further into the room, he kicked the door shut and leaned down to cover my mouth with his. He stroked my pulse as his other arm wrapped tightly around my waist and pulled me tight against him. His tongue pressed against my lips and I opened for him, my heart racing, my knees weak, and all I could do was grip his jacket and hold on for the ride. It took a minute for me to come back to reality, and to my utter horror I remembered what I was wearing. Dark blue camisole with a shelf bra that did nothing to support my overly large breasts, a pair of ratty plaid pajama pants, my hair pulled into a messy bun on top of my head and not a stitch of makeup. I hadn’t brushed my teeth, probably had nasty wine breath, and here I was kissing the hottest guy on the planet who I’d just met less than three hours ago. I pushed at his chest. You know, the one that felt like granite under my fingertips? He didn’t budge, so I pushed again. “Not done,” he said, smiling against my lips. “But you need to be,” I whispered, admittedly, somewhat half-heartedly. His hand slipped to my cheek as he leaned back and frowned. “Didn’t feel like I needed to stop, darlin’.” I licked my lips and nodded. “But you do all the same.” Austin stepped back with a smile. I crossed my arms over my chest in an effort to hide the effect he had on my body. “What are you doing here?” He shrugged as his eyes swept my apartment. “Nice place.” “Thank you.” “You live here when the asshole stole your money?” I shook my head. “No. I had to move out of my other place. This place is way cheaper.” “And you don’t want to live at home?” “No,” I said. “I’m not running to my parents because I made an error in judgment. They raised me to be independent and being an adult means life sucks sometimes. They do what they can, which I’m very grateful for, but I need to work this out on my own.” “How did you manage to get this place?” “I know the owner.” His eyes came back to me. “Meaning?” I sighed. “Meaning, he knows I’m good for the rent, so he waived the credit check.” Austin scowled. “Tell me his name.” “The manager?” He stepped toward me. “No.” I rolled my eyes and tried to put distance between us. My back hit the wall of my tiny foyer. “I’m not telling you Steven’s last name, Austin.” He gently grabbed my arm and pulled me back toward him. “I’m not leaving here until you do.” I smirked. “Hope you like sleeping on a couch, then.” Austin gave me his panty-dropping grin again. “Your bed’ll do just fine.” “You are not sleeping in my bed, Austin.” He chuckled. “We’ll see.” “What are you doing here?” I asked again, trying to ignore his thumb stroking the pulse on my wrist. “No fuckin’ clue.” “We’re back to rude, I see.” He laughed. “Shit, you’re funny.” “I wasn’t trying to be funny.” “I know, baby.” I couldn’t stop a shiver. “Don’t call me ‘baby.’” “You like it.” “Doesn’t mean you should do it,” I challenged. “You’re gorgeous, you know you’re gorgeous, but the fact remains, I don’t know you and I don’t really know why you’re here.” His smile grew. “I’m gorgeous, huh?” “Poor choice of words, apparently.” “Let’s stop talkin’, then.” He leaned down and kissed me again, and I couldn’t do anything about it. Don’t get me wrong, I could if I’d wanted to, but let’s be honest, I had never been kissed like this, let alone looked at the way he looked at me. He wasn’t anyone I would have thought would find me attractive. I was far more school librarian than biker chick and typically only received interest from nerds. “What’s his last name?” he asked when he broke the kiss. “Mills,” I answered, my eyes still closed, my breath still labored. “Crap!” I snapped when I came to my senses and looked up at him. He was once again grinning. “I mean, Millson,” I improvised. “Nice try.” He stroked my cheek. “I’ll see you soon.” “You will?” He nodded. “’Night, baby.” He kissed me one more time and then walked out the door, leaving me standing next to the door in shock. I closed the door, locked it, and grabbed my wine on my way to the kitchen. After dumping the glass, I dialed Kim. “Hey, lady.” “Ohmigod.” “What?” she asked. “You’re never going to guess what just happened.” I filled her in on my entire night, including details about Austin “Booker” Carver. “He just showed up and then gave you a mind-blowing kiss?” I nodded and realized she couldn’t see me. “Yes. Two,” I said… well, whispered with breathy desire is probably a better description. “Maybe three.” “And he’s like a biker dude?” “Yes.” God, again, breathy desire. I was losing it. “Oh, honey, you’re screwed.” “Crap? Am I?” I asked. “Why did he want Steve’s name?” “No clue, Kimmie. But he seemed pissed. Which is weird because he doesn’t know Steve… or me.” Kim hummed, but didn’t say anything further. “What?” I demanded. “I think you’ve got a man who has decided to claim you.” “What?” I asked. “What does that mean?” “I think you should have Elliot check this guy out.” “Kim! Stop speaking in riddles.” I shoved my wine glass in the dishwasher and slammed the door a little harder than I should have. “You know I’m not good at this kind of stuff.” “Just have your brother do a background check on him, Dani. Then go from there.” “Why do I need to get Elliot involved in this?” “Will you just listen to your best friend and know that she is looking out for you?” Kim asked. “You’ve only ever been with one guy and he kind of ripped you off, so you’re both naïve and gun-shy in the face of hot guys.” “I’m not a child, Kim,” I pointed out. “I’m not saying you are, Dani. But you’re sweet and you see the good in everyone. You even give Steve somewhat of the benefit of the doubt most of the time.” “I do not.” “You do too,” she argued. “It’s your only vice.” I snorted. “Suck it, Kimmie.” “Oooh, if only I could.” “You and your oral sex fixation.” “Hey, I enjoy fellatio,” she said. I groaned. “Kim—” “Well, you seem to object to me saying I love giving head—” “Oh, gross. Kimmie, please!” “Just talk to your brother.” “No.” I made my way into my bedroom and set my alarm. “This man isn’t interested in me. He’s probably just trying to see if he can trick me into sleeping with him. But I’m too smart for him. I’ll talk to my dad about the repair costs, then go from there. I’ll probably never see him again.” “Okay, Ms. Oblivious. We’ll see.” “Yes, we will. I love you, but I have to go to bed. I have a million things to do tomorrow and it’s way past my bedtime.” Kim laughed. “Okay dear, sweet, innocent friend. Love you too.” “’Night.” “’Night,” Kim said, and hung up. I brushed my teeth, climbed into bed, and closed my eyes, but all I could see was Austin’s face in front of me, smiling and leaning forward for a kiss. I rolled over and tried again, but this time, Austin’s head was on the pillow next to me. “Crap.” I flopped onto my back and dragged my hands down my face. Glancing at the clock, it said eleven-thirty and I groaned. Six hours. If I can fall asleep right now, I’ll get six hours of sleep. I glanced back at the clock at midnight and this continued until I finally fell asleep around two. By the time the alarm sounded, I was sure I’d only managed a twenty minute power nap, so I snoozed. The problem was I snoozed until six a.m., which meant I was still rushing around my apartment when my brother arrived to pick me up. Lucky for me, he didn’t grill me about why I was so tired. After I told him what time to pick me up, he dropped me off at school and went on his merry way. Thank God for small favors. CHAPTER SEVEN Danielle FRIDAY AFTERNOON, I laid the last piece of paper in the last stack of grading I’d been putting off for a week and sat back in my chair. Checking my watch, I groaned. I was probably the last person left in the school and with another early morning, I was exhausted. But at least now I was caught up and could enjoy my weekend. Opening my desk drawer, I grabbed my purse just as my new phone jingled. I found it buried in the bottom of my bag and answered it without checking the ID. “Hello?” “Hey, babe.” I frowned. “Austin?” He chuckled. “Your car’s fixed.” “But I haven’t had a chance to talk to my dad yet.” I rubbed my forehead, my sleepless nights and money worries manifesting themselves into a wicked headache. “I have to see if he’s okay with the amount. Don’t most places have to get authorization to do repairs beforehand? What if I can’t pay for them? Crap, Austin, I don’t know if I can pay you. I thought you were going to call me yesterday. I need more time to figure this out.” “Babe, take a breath,” he said. I did, but found I needed to take a few more. “The car’s fixed,” he continued. “No charge.” “What? What do you mean, ‘no charge’?” “Generally, it means that currency in the form of money won’t be exchanging hands.” “You’re funny.” I couldn’t stop a smile. “But the sad fact is that I don’t have five-thousand dollars and I don’t really feel comfortable asking my dad for it. He’s bailed me out too often over the past few years.” Austin sighed. “Babe. It’s covered.” “Explain to me exactly how it’s covered. What do you want in return?” “We can talk about it when I drop your car off.” “I knew it,” I snapped. “Forget it. You can keep it.” I hung up and threw my phone in my purse, my sleepiness leaving my body faster than it had arrived. Seething, I grabbed my purse and jacket, and headed out of my classroom through the outside door. I locked up, passed by the office, and waved to the janitor who was grabbing the trash from the front of the school. I needed to walk. My apartment was about three miles from the school and not having a car was a good excuse to walk off my anger and maybe a few calories as well. I’d been lazy of late and had gained close to thirty pounds after Steven’s betrayal. I needed to stop feeling sorry for myself and do something about my weight. I texted my brother and told him I didn’t need a ride again and then headed toward home. The temperature had dropped since lunchtime, so I zipped up my coat, shoved my hands in my pockets and put my head down against the wind. I had gone about a block when I regretted my decision to walk home in the cold. I no longer wanted to lose weight. I wanted to soak in a hot tub with a glass of wine. This thought brought to light the fact that I didn’t have a tub worthy of soaking anymore, which then reminded me I also didn’t own a car anymore, which led me down the rabbit hole of anger and irritation at the drop-dead gorgeous man who’d interrupted my plan. I was getting my life back… at least I was trying to, but now Austin wanted to mess with that plan. I had to figure out a way to come up with the money without asking my dad. The large fir trees that lined the private drive leading to my apartment came into view and I sighed with relief. I was home. I would call my brother and work out a game plan. He’d know what to do. I turned down the road and quickened my steps. I was now officially freezing and wanted to get inside and wrap myself in a blanket. The parking lot came into view… and so did my car. I stopped walking, confused. Movement out of the corner of my eye had me turning to see Austin climbing from his truck. He frowned. “Did you walk home, Dani?” “Huh?” “Did you walk home? Alone?” I looked up at him. “Um, yeah. I don’t have a car.” “Fuck.” He shook his head. “Did you walk yesterday as well?” “No, my brother has been driving me, but—” “Here.” He reached into his pocket and pulled out my car key. I shook my head. “I can’t pay for it, Austin.” “Take the key, Dani.” I did and he swore again. “Babe, your hand is like ice.” “Generally happens when it’s cold.” “You don’t own gloves?” “I didn’t bring them, on account of the fact I didn’t expect to be walking home,” I admitted. “Why didn’t you call me?” “Why would I call you?” He took both of my hands in his and rubbed them together. “I would have picked you up.” “Why would you have picked me up?” Austin frowned again. “Let’s get you inside.” “Wait,” I said, trying to pull my hands from his. He just held them tighter. “What are you doing here?” “Babe.” He looked at me like I was touched in the head. “I’m bringing you your car.” “I feel like you and I are having a huge failure to communicate,” I grumbled. He waved his hand toward my apartment. “Let’s talk inside.” “You’re coming inside?” “Not talkin’ to you out here in the cold.” He gave me his sexy smile. “’Course, we don’t have to talk at all. Up to you.” I let out a quiet huff. “I don’t know what you want from me.” “Come on. Let’s get you warm,” he said. I had a feeling he wasn’t going to leave, so I nodded and led him upstairs. Unlocking the door, I stepped inside and turned on the light. Austin closed and locked the door behind us and I shrugged out of my coat. He threw his jacket on the chair by the television, but kept his vest on. “Why don’t you talk like a thug?” I blurted out. He chuckled. “I’m sorry?” “Nothing. Just ignore me.” I dropped my purse on the chair by the door. “Do you want some wine?” “Got beer?” “Um, maybe. I’ll look.” I stepped into the kitchen to see if Elliot had left anything the last time he’d come for dinner. I pushed the milk to the side and found three bottles of my brother’s favorite Portland brew, hoping Austin would like it. I grabbed one, opened it, and then poured the last of the red I’d been drinking over the past few days into a glass. I walked back into the living room to find Austin lounging on my sofa, his booted feet up on my coffee table, television remote in his hand, flipping through stations and looking like he owned the place. He smiled at me and reached out his hand to take the beer. “Thanks, babe.” I handed him the bottle and shook my head as I sat in the chair next to the sofa. “What are you doing?” he asked. “What do you mean?” He patted the cushion next to him. “Come here.” “Um, no, I’m good right here. Thanks,” I said, and sipped my wine. “Babe, come here.” “No.” He dropped his feet to the floor and he twisted to face me. “No?” I nodded and then shook my head. Austin grinned, setting his beer on the coffee table and rising to his feet. He took my wine and set it next to his beer. “What are you doing?” I asked, leaning back as though I could achieve some space. Silly me. He reached down, sliding one arm under my knees and one behind my back, lifting me like I weighed no more than a small child, and sitting back on the sofa, me in his lap. “Austin?” I squeaked. “Yeah, babe.” “What are you doing?” “Well, I was drinkin’ a beer.” He stroked my hair, grinning like a loon. I tried to scoot off his lap, but he held me tighter. “You are really confusing me.” “I get that.” “Then why are you doing it?” He chuckled. “Because it’s fun.” I sighed. “Will you take payments on my car?” “No.” “I can’t pay you without making payments, Austin.” He ran a thumb over my lower lip. “I know.” I pushed his hand away. “Are you expecting me to sleep with you?” “Not because I fixed your car, no.” “What?” “Babe,” he said with a sigh. “We’re working shit out here. I want to get to know you, so we’re gonna get to know each other.” “Because you want to get to know me, we’re going to get to know each other?” “Yeah.” “What if I don’t want to get to know you?” He sat up a little and kissed me. Captivated me with his mouth. It was awesome… and terrifying, and yet, I couldn’t do anything but feel, so I did. And it was overwhelming and beautiful and all-encompassing. He kissed me like he was drowning and I was his breath. I came to my senses and broke the kiss, dropping my forehead to his. “What are you doing to me?” He smiled, kissing me quickly again. “What do you want me to do to you?” “I think it would be best if I didn’t answer that.” Austin ran his thumb over my lower lip again. “Damn, you’re cute.” “Are you really not going to let me pay for the car?” “I’m really not going to let you pay for your car.” He gave me a gentle squeeze. “Mack thought it was worse than it was. Hatch looked it over and said it would take less than three hours.” “Five grand’s pretty bad, Austin.” He grinned. “If you were someone off the street, it’s what we’d charge you. The parts were less than three hundred. The rest was labor.” “I should at least talk to the person who fixed it about payments. Hatch, was it?” “I fixed it, Dani.” “You did?” I glanced at his hands. They were still void of oil. He smiled. “I wore gloves, babe.” “I thought you were using “I” in the general sense of you organized it,” I said. “Pickin’ up on that.” I took his face in my hands. “You fixed my car.” “I fixed your car.” “Thank you.” “You’re welcome.” “Can I get off your lap now?” I asked. “In a minute.” I didn’t say anything, but I liked that answer. I liked where I was. He made me feel protected. “You asked me a question before,” he said. “Which one?” My face heated. “My use of language.” “The thug comment?” He chuckled. “Yeah, that one.” “I’m sorry. That was rude.” “Would you like me to answer it?” he asked. I shrugged. “If you want to.” “We’re gettin’ to know each other, right?” I nodded. “Can I get off your lap now?” He shook his head and my heart raced. He was delicious.

Where the ad sends people

website.novelbars.com

💖😍one click to continue reading👉

I STARED DOWN at my dashboard console and willed the check engine light to stop the infernal red glow. How I got where I was, I had no freaking clue, which meant I had no freaking clue how to find the freeway entrance to get home. “You are an idiot, Dani,” I whispered out loud.