For the Love of Callie

Maggie Casper

(c) 2004

ISBN 1-59578-033-5

For the Love of Callie

Maggie Casper

Published 2004

ISBN 1-59578-033-5

Published by Liquid Silver Books, imprint of Atlantic Bridge Publishing, 10509

Sedgegrass Dr, Indianapolis, Indiana 46235. Copyright © 2004, Maggie Casper. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, recording or otherwise, without the prior written permission of the author.

Manufactured in the United States of America

Liquid Silver Books

http://lsbooks.com

Email:

raven@lsbooks.com

Cover Art

by April Martinez

This is a work of fiction. The characters, incidents and dialogues in this book are of the author’s imagination and are not to be construed as real. Any resemblance to actual events or persons, living or dead, is completely coincidental.

Dedication

To my critique partner Steph, for being so much more than just my CP, thank you for being my friend.

This book is dedicated to my husband. All that you do has allowed me to reach for the stars and realize a dream that just a few shorts years ago seemed unattainable. Thank you for your strength and support. I love you!

CHAPTER ONE

“I tried Daddy, I really did,” Callie Jones whispered, kneeling next to her father’s headstone. “If she hadn’t done it, there may have been a way.”

The she Callie spoke of was her mother, the woman recently buried in the plot right next to her father. A woman who’d never wanted her, who’d despised her for being the apple of her father’s eye.

Callie hadn’t been to the cemetery since the day of Maxine Jones’ funeral. There was no love left for the woman; it had been beaten out of her years ago. So Callie refused to refer to her as mother.

All that was left was the shell of a memory, glimpses of a time when her father had been alive to love and hold her, a time where laughter was allowed and even encouraged.

That time had been long ago.

It took every ounce of her willpower not to focus on the freshly packed dirt of Maxine’s grave. No headstone marked the spot and with no money to purchase one, there probably never would be. The whole damned thing made Callie want to scream in frustration, but showing no emotion was something that had been drilled into her. Instead, she clenched her fists and trained her thoughts on the future.

Rising from her kneeling position, Callie made one last vow to her father. “I’ll get it back Daddy. Whatever I have to do to get the ranch back, I will.”

It was a silly vow to make and she knew it, but it was something to hold on to, something to keep her going while she was penniless and, by the end of the day, homeless.

Callie got into her beat-up truck and headed back home. It was a home that no longer belonged to her, but home nonetheless and always would be in her mind.

The place had gone to hell-in-a-handbasket since her father’s death, but she knew that one day it would be hers, so she’d worked her fingers to the bone trying to keep it on its last leg. All to no avail, because within a matter of hours it would be auctioned off to the highest bidder.

“Damn you, Maxine!” Callie hissed between clenched teeth.

The woman had been selfish to the bone. From the day of her father’s death, Maxine Jones had taken to drinking and had never given it up. When it finally became too much to bear, she’d put a gun to her head and pulled the trigger. That was the sight that had greeted Callie almost a month ago.

Nothing like coming home from a hard day’s work of mending fences and shoveling shit to find your mother’s brains splattered all over her bedroom wall, she thought with a snarl.

There may have been no love, but there was guilt and plenty of it. Most of her guilt came from the fact that no matter how hard she worked it wouldn’t be enough to save her father’s ranch. The Triple J had been in the Jones family for many generations. Callie’s ancestors had started the ranch on what was then wild Texas land. Fighting Indians and squatters alike to retain what they had claimed as their own.

And now, in the blink of an eye she’d lost it, all of it. Every damned cow, horse and piece of machinery, as well as the land and buildings. It was all gone.

Often over the past few years she’d thought about killing Maxine with her bare hands. It did nothing to assuage her present guilt, but at the time it had helped a whole helluva lot with the burning anger that had coursed through her body.

It still amazed her that a woman as heartless and cold as Maxine, who could make a grown man run far and fast by merely looking him in the eye, would take the coward’s way out and commit suicide.

“Damned fool,” she muttered to herself as she turned off the highway and onto the dirt road leading to the Triple J.

There was no insurance settlement due to the cause of death, and Callie hadn’t been able to sell enough horses or cattle to bring in the money to pay the taxes. Her request for an extension had been denied and soon she would be without the benefit of a roof over her head. Idly, she wondered if it could get any worse.

A gleaming white speck in the distance caught her attention. The fool who’d built that house must have money to burn. She wondered who it was and what they were doing in her small town.

Several of the townsfolk had asked about it, but no answers were to be found. It seemed whoever owned the land and the newly finished home wanted to remain anonymous. Seemed strange to her, but then again there were some strange folks out there.

“Well hell,” she swore. Looked like everyone was early. Damned scavengers! Most of them were probably just looking for a show. All Callie could hope for was that the auction brought in enough money to pay off the taxes with a little left over. Enough for her to get a small place in town, and hold her over until she was able to find another job.

That was going to be quite a prospect all by itself. How in the hell does someone who knows nothing other than ranching find a job in town?

She stepped from her truck slamming the door behind her. After settling the tan Stetson on her head, she made her way through the mingling crowd of busybodies. Some of the faces brought a niggling sense of foreboding to the back of her mind. Why were all these people at the auction?

The majority of them had trouble making ends meet and paying their own debts.

Callie silently wondered what they thought they were going to bid on her ranch with—

certainly not good looks.

She couldn’t help the snicker that escaped her. If it were good looks the auctioneer was looking for, she wouldn’t even be able to open the bidding. At one time she might have won hands down, but then she’d been considered a fine catch. Probably never a perfect ten, but the boys all had said she cleaned up nice.

Now though, now she was as hard as the calluses on the palms of her hands. Her once pale skin was now deeply tanned. Hair that had once cascaded to the middle of her back, its curls catching the shining sun, was now kept in a single braid then covered by a hat. It was the way it had to be and over the years Callie thought little about it.

Finally, she made her way to the podium. The regular auctioneer was nowhere in sight. In his place stood Judge Gatlin. At the sight of him, that same niggling sensation raised the tiny hairs on the back of Callie’s neck.

“Judge Gatlin,” she said in way of a greeting. “Didn’t expect to see you here.”

And certainly didn’t want to see him there. The man was as crooked as a sidewinder snake, and the whole county knew it. Her unease grew.

“Howdy, Callie. Bud couldn’t make it today so I agreed to stand in for him.”

Nodding her head, Callie made her way to her front row seat. The judge called attention to the crowd and the bidding began. If one could call it that. There was a single bid. It was made for exactly the amount the county required and not a penny more. To top it off, not a single higher bid was placed.

Callie’s shock was so deep that it took her a brief moment before she could make heads or tails of what had just happened.

* * * *

He watched her, noticing how she sat ramrod straight. It was obvious she was uncomfortable and doing all she could to hide the fact. Money once again had accomplished a great deal. Not only did it buy a judge, but it also paid off anyone who’d been willing to legitimately bid on the Triple J.

No way was he going to let the place slip from his grasp. The taste of revenge was sweet and it was finally his.

Mica Blackfeather loved Texas and even though he and his mother had been forced off of Triple J land, they’d never left the state. And now, after all those years he’d found his way back to the one place where the land spoke to him. The one place where he had felt closest to his ancestors. He was finally home.

When the Judge closed the bidding after his single hand signal, no one spoke a word.

It was good to see that money had its place in even the smallest of towns. A wicked smile crossed Mica’s lips, and although he longed to draw out the whole nasty ordeal for the benefit of Callie Jones and revenge, he also wanted it to end quickly. There were other, more important things to take place, and in order to get to those things he had to close the auction. The Judge closed the auction wishing the new owner well and asked out loud for his name, as if they had never met. The man was a very good actor, he’d have to give him that.

“Don’t be shy, son. Introduce yourself,” the Judge commanded from behind the podium.

With his eyes trained on Callie he answered. “Mica, Mica Blackfeather.”

He watched as her head lowered for the briefest of moments before she seemed to steel herself against the impact of his announcement. Her shoulders then squared and with her chin lifted, she turned and looked him in the eye.

It was a good thing he had the ability to hide what he was thinking, because seeing her again sent his senses reeling. No longer was Callie the soft young woman he’d loved so tenderly their first time.

No, now she looked hard and cynical. The green of her eyes had lost their sparkle, instead they told of pain and confusion before quickly masking over, revealing nothing.

She rose on sturdy, well-shaped legs and strode across the expanse of the yard to where he stood.

He was immediately engulfed by her scent. Leather and something more feminine tickled his nose. He could tell by the look on her face that she was having a heck of a time keeping her composure.

One tiny, but definitely not dainty, hand was thrust forward. “Glad to see you’re back, Mr. Blackfeather. Hope you enjoy the Triple J.”

He wanted to snarl in response. Her nonchalance struck a chord in him. An overwhelming need to rattle her made him smile. It wasn’t a happy smile, but one of triumph because the best was yet to come.

“Not sure if I’ll enjoy the Triple J or not. That is entirely up to you.”

Her confused look returned. Her brows furrowed deeply between her green cat eyes.

“What do you mean?”

“I mean it is up to you whether or not the Triple J is allowed to remain as is, or whether I call in a demolition crew and flatten the whole dilapidated thing.”

He watched as her face drained of color, her widened eyes shot green lasers in their attempt to annihilate. “What in the hell are you talking about?”

“Come with me,” he said grasping her upper arm firmly.

He could tell she wanted to pull away, to struggle against his hold, but she did neither. Mica kept walking until he was away from the crowd, away from the stares and knowing looks. Then he kept walking just a bit further until they were within a copse of trees, surrounded and out of sight.

She was a petite woman and had to practically run to keep up with his long-legged stride, and yet she wasn’t even out of breath. That, combined with the sleek muscle he felt under his hand, told of a woman who was used to hard work.

He wished she wasn’t wearing a long sleeved shirt. That he could feel her skin beneath his palm. Would her skin still be smooth and warm just the way he remembered it?

Get a grip, he chided himself. Patience. Soon enough you’ll have everything you want.

When he stopped, she wrenched her arm free of his grasp then crossed them over her chest causing her breasts to lift. The material of her shirt stretched tightly over her chest, causing the fabric to gape at the pearl snap lying between her full breasts, showing just a hint of white.

Once again his mind began to wander to a time long past. A time when he’d held Callie against his body, skin to skin, as they loved throughout the night. A time when all hell had broken loose, and he’d not only lost his first love, but also his home.

The fact that she could take away his concentration without even trying brought a scowl to his face. Her nude body wasn’t something he would have to think about for long. By the time the night was over, he would know her intimately once again.

Her taste, the sound of her moans as he buried his cock deep inside the folds of her slick pussy. It would all be his for the taking. Maybe he would steal a small taste right now.

She was still staring at him with those glittering green cat eyes. The shape of almonds, they took up a large portion of her face, giving her an exotic look. Gold flecks seemed to dance through her irises.

Callie had never been a classic beauty as a girl, but now, she was all woman, filled out to perfection. The too-full lips turned down at the corners brought dark, erotic thoughts to mind. He could picture what it would look like to have those lips wrapped tightly around the head of his cock. Smooth and supple, they were the color of peaches even pressed together as tightly as they were in anger.

Swollen from the voracity of his kisses, they would be every man’s wet dream come true.

“Are you gonna tell me what in the blue blazes you drug me out here for?”

Narrowing his eyes, he stepped forward. “I’ll tell you alright. I drug you out here to let you know that before he leaves, Judge Gatlin will be marrying us.”

Her wide eyes narrowed to dangerous slits. “Why in the hell would you want to marry me?”

“Because I can,” he snarled. “Plain and simple, just because I can.”

Mica watched as the small woman stiffened her spine. She widened her stance, as if she were preparing for battle, then she asked. “And what if I say no?”

He laughed. “Say no and your home as you know it will be gone. The Triple J will no longer exist.”

“I’m not sure what it’s like where you just moved from, but here, people aren’t for sale, Mr. Blackfeather.”

He narrowed his eyes at her then stepped closer. “Everything and everyone has a price.”

“Then let me put it this way. I’m not for sale.”

“Even you, Miss Jones will do what is necessary to survive. It’s ironic that Judge Gatlin was here today don’t you think? The fact that not one other person placed a bid on this fine piece of land seems rather fishy also. It makes a person wonder who their friends truly are. You know, Miss Jones, something tells me you’ll have a mighty hard time finding a job locally, unless you were planning to move.”

The flush of her cheeks turned a chalky white, but she gave no other outward sign of distress. He almost felt guilty for what he’d put her through already, but not quite. The memory of her deceit, her treachery kept him from feeling any misplaced guilt.

“And if I say yes, what’s in it for you?”

“Everything I’ve ever wanted. Revenge for what your family put me and my mother through and even better, to once again have you under me. In my bed, on my terms.

However I see fit.”

The white of her complexion flushed scarlet just before she turned to walk away.

Without thought, he shackled her wrist before she could retreat. With a firm tug, he brought her body up against his. The board stiff length of her spine acted as leverage as she tried to break free of his hold, but he couldn’t free her just yet. “One taste,” he insisted as he lowered his head.

“Go to hell,” she all but snarled at him just before his mouth swooped down to devour her full, lush lips.

Her body stilled at the probe of his tongue. She was stubborn as a mule, but he was just as determined. Releasing her wrist, both hands came up to frame her face tilting her head back to gain him better access.

She tasted like honey, all thick and sweet on his tongue. Tracing the innermost recess of her upper lip was Heaven. When he made to deepen the kiss, she began struggling anew.

The movements of her body aroused him like he’d never been aroused before. His cock throbbed against the confines of his jeans, almost to the point of pain. Backing her against a tree, he wedged a denim-clad thigh between her legs then trailed his hand up until her moist warmth met his fingers. Damn, but he was glad she’d worn a denim skirt today instead of her normal jeans!

At the first touch, her body melted against his. She arched her back, angling for a better position as his finger breached the leg of her panties. She moaned in response, her hands making a foray across his chest causing his shaft to tighten even further.

“Ah, Callie, baby. You’re so hot and wet. I can’t wait until you’re in my bed, my face between your sweet thighs. I want to hear you scream as I make you cum over and over again.”

Her body immediately stiffened in response to his words. He watched as reality hit, her face heated, her eyes glittered. If looks could kill, he’d be a dead man.

She tried to turn from him, from his possessive hold, to leave their hideout and get as far away from him as possible but his next words stopped her.

“Submit to me, Callie, in every way and your precious ranch will be safe for now.

Leave and the bulldozers waiting at the gates will be called,” he said waving his handy little cell phone.

“I’m going to talk to the esteemed Judge Gatlin. Be there in ten minutes or I’ll think you don’t want to be my wife,” he said, his sarcastic parting words made her angry as hell.

CHAPTER TWO

Once the trembling started, Callie had a hard time stopping it. It was times like these, when she thought she would go crazy, that she missed not having any family or friends.

She’d left her friends behind long ago. It was much easier to be alone than to explain away an enraged drunk woman trying to pass herself off as your mother, and much less embarrassing.

The ground vibrated beneath her feet causing her to lift her head from where she was resting it against the stout trunk of a huge tree. A crashing sound, the splintering of wood, scared the birds in the tree to flight. A terrified gasp made its way from her throat as she took off at a dead run.

The site to greet her was enough to make a weaker woman cry. The beautifully carved archway that had complemented the whitewashed fence leading into the ranch yard since before she was born, lay in ruin.

The hand-carved sign she had helped her father make as a young girl, was still attached by one chain to the uppermost curve of the arch and was in danger of being ran over by the heavy machinery making its way to the main house.

“Nooo,” she yelled, making a mad dash for the sign with no thought to her own safety. Too much had happened in her life, too many bad memories, to allow the loss of even one good one.

She could hear raised voices behind her, but gave no thought as to what they were saying. If the family sign got demolished, she feared what was left of her soul would go with it. Her heart was shattered long ago, leaving little behind, but something about the possibility of loosing her father’s sign nearly drove her over the edge.

Her lungs burned, her legs ached but she couldn’t stop. The diesel fumes coming from the dozer became stronger as she got closer, but she still couldn’t stop. When she finally made it to the large plank of wood burned with the words Triple J Ranch as well as the ranch’s brand, she stumbled to her knees and began working the chain loose.

Only once did she look up to see how close the yellow monster was to her, and even then, after seeing how big it truly was, how deadly it could be, she still couldn’t pull herself away.

When the chain finally popped free of the hardware holding it, she got up to run but was hit from behind by what felt like a brick wall.

All she could think of was the treasure she held in her arms. Whatever slammed into her from behind sent her flying, then tumbling to the ground. The wooden plank scraped and scratched her, tearing her shirt in the process, but it didn’t matter. Nothing mattered anymore. Her home was gone and she had no family left. Even with those stifling odds, she wouldn’t take the road Maxine had. She’d struggle through life until God saw fit to take it from her.

With no time to dwell on her aches and pains, Callie was roughly pulled to her feet.

Strong hands grasped her arms, shaking her until her teeth rattled.

“What in the fuck did you think you were doing,” Mica growled. A sharp pain was making itself known through her shoulder and all the shaking was making it worse.

Gritting her teeth, she pulled free before looking at the man who’d been manhandling her.

“Keep your damned hands off me,” she growled in return.

He leaned closer then, making Callie realize exactly how much bigger he was than her. He towered over her, dark piercing eyes slit in anger. His voice was low and deadly calm. The voice of a man without a conscience, used to getting his way.

“I’ll put my hands on you if I damned well please. You’re lucky I don’t put you over my knee for the stunt you just pulled.”

“What would it have mattered if I’d have been flattened, anyway? You’ve got my damned house, what more do you want?”

With an arm around her waist, he pulled her close. “You, Callie. I want you under me writhing while I pound my cock deep inside you, and if you’d like to keep that house standing, you’ll at least pretend to want the same. Now let’s go.”

His tug on her sent a jolt of pain straight through her shoulder causing stars to dance before her eyes. A groan slipped through her locked jaw bringing his attention back to her.

“What is it?” he asked, as if he cared.

“Nothing,” she muttered shaking her head.

Before she could protest, the large plank of wood was pulled harshly from her hands.

He was looking at her as if she’d just sprouted a third head. Following his eyes, she lowered her gaze to the front of her shirt and gasped at what she saw.

A couple of the snaps were undone showing the cotton of her worn white bra. As if that wasn’t bad enough, there was a long rent in the fabric, exposing the flesh at her side.

The jagged edges were wet with blood.

Damn, she cursed under her breath. Just what she needed, a bruised shoulder and the splinter from hell. And all on her wedding day. She couldn’t help the emotionless laugh that popped from her mouth. It was either laugh or cry and she’d rather have her eyeballs gouged out than cry in front of Mica Blackfeather.

“Let’s have a look at that,” he said. He actually sounded worried. The husky depth of his voice shimmered down her spine leaving her a bit breathless.

“No, let’s not and say we did. It’s nothing. I’ll take care of it later,” she said, snapping her shirt the best she could, then holding the torn fabric edges together with one hand. When she touched the wound, white-hot pain told her she wouldn’t be taking care of this one by herself. Maybe she’d be able to talk Max into helping her.

Max was her foreman, the only employee who had stayed on when the money ran out. She would insist he be able to stay at the place after she was gone.

“You were in such an all-fired hurry to get married, weren’t you?”

“Oh, it’s not the getting married part that had me excited, baby. It’s what happens after.” His look spoke of dark, carnal pleasures. Any other time, that look would have made her panties wet, but right now, all she could think of was getting the wedding over with so she could ice down her shoulder.

Then she’d be able to look forward to Max picking wood out of her side for the next week. The day from hell had just turned into the night from hell, and would more than likely continue on into the life from hell. But hey, who was she to complain? At least she didn’t have to deal with Maxine’s shit anymore.

“One condition,” she said before following him. She was breathing hard as the pain streaked like lightening throughout every pore of her flesh.

“You’re in no position to make conditions, Callie. Either you marry me and submit to my will, or the house goes.”

She had to bluff. Using her years of hard luck and an even harder life, she gathered what was left of her energy and made her face blank.

“Then it goes.”

For just a second she had the pleasure of seeing shock register across his face. “What damned condition?” he snapped.

She allowed a small smile before she spoke. “My foreman, Max, is allowed to stay on here and keep the place up, and you pay him.”

*

She hadn’t asked anything for herself. Not at all like the selfish woman he’d been expecting. As a matter of fact, after eleven years of being away he had been surprised at what he’d come back to find. She’d changed more than he could ever imagine. A part of him warned not to ask why such changes had come about.

He decided it would be good business to allow the foreman to stay. He already knew the spread and how it was run, so now there would be no need to hire and train a newcomer.

“Okay,” he agreed. “Max stays. Now let’s go. We’ve got a wedding to attend.”

Suddenly, she looked weary and not so steady on her feet, but she followed him like a lamb to the slaughter.

The fact that she had no home and no money left her little choice. It was all turning out the way he’d planned it. So why all of a sudden did his chest ache? Why, after years of planning his revenge, would he care that she looked like she was going to fall flat on her face.

Mica didn’t want to know. The answers to those questions could prove hazardous to his future and that wasn’t something he would allow to happen.

When they reached the podium where the Judge was waiting, Mica motioned for the man to begin. He felt Callie stiffen beside him, so he stretched his arm around her, holding her close to his side, effectively closing off any escape route. Her green eyes were once again flashing. He’d wondered how long it would take her to figure out he’d set the whole thing up.

The ceremony was short and to the point, but there was nothing sweet about it. She was to be his wife, his sexual slave, but she would never have a place in his heart. With no emotions involved there was no need for flowery words or the swapping of rings.

They said their ‘I do’s’ in front of the crowd of lookiloos who, after the Judge had pronounced them man and wife, took their leave. Judge Gatlin had stood there for a moment with a lascivious smile on his face as he looked over Callie’s slight form. He’d only stopped ogling Callie when Mica had cleared his throat to get his attention. The man was an abomination to the county he was supposed to serve and if Mica ever caught him looking at his woman in such a way again, he’d make sure every official in the county knew of the Judge’s black deeds.

When they were finally alone, he turned to her. “Ready to go home?” he asked in a lust-filled voice. His half erect cock throbbed with the possibilities of the night to come.

“Not yet, I need to gather some things and talk to Max. I’ll be along shortly.”

He stepped in front of her, not wanting to let her out of his sight. “You’ve got an hour, Callie. Don’t make me come looking for you.”

“Dammit, Blackfeather! You know that’s not enough time.”

“Two then, and not a minute more!” he thundered as he turned to go to his car.

He would blot out the hurt she tried to hide so well. The way her face was dotted with perspiration and the fact that her color was sallow and pale were signs of her pain.

He had no patience for weak women so she’d just have to suck it up.

Only when she was gone from his vision did he move to get into his car. The interior of his car was comfortable. The cool feel of the tan leather seat beneath him reminded him of all he had worked for. How when down on his luck, he’d picked himself up and made it big. As he pulled into the drive of his new two-story, ranch style home, he wondered what his mother would think of the day’s events.

She wouldn’t be happy, that he was sure of.

He stomped his way up the front steps and onto the porch. The wrap around style left lots of room for entertaining and was perfect for warm spring days and cool summer nights. Too bad there wouldn’t be a happy family to take advantage of it.

He walked around the porch to the back door and let himself in. He removed his hat and hung it on a hook next to the door. His mother was at the sink, her back turned to him, looking as stout as ever. Her long black hair peppered with gray hung down her back in a straight curtain.

She was angry. He could tell by the jerky movements she made as she washed the dishes. She already knew what he had planned, he thought to himself. He often wondered why she had been gifted with the ability to feel the emotions of others and how she was able to deal with that gift on a daily basis. Most days he couldn’t even deal with his own.

“You’ve done it then?” she asked, still not looking his way.

“Yes, it’s done. My wife will be here in two hours time.” He said nothing more and made his way up the stairs to the master bedroom and straight to the balcony doors. He needed some fresh air. He could still feel his mother’s disapproval.

The feathers of his dreamcatcher rubbed the flesh of his cheek, tickling it, as he made his way through the French doors and onto the balcony. His grandmother had made it for him as a child to catch the bad dreams. It was supposed to let only the good dreams through, but it didn’t always work that way. Sometimes the bad ones found their way through as well. Mica figured that was probably his fault, for he had not followed the way of his people. The elders of his family had taught him the ways, but instead of grasping his roots, he’d worked for a thicker wallet and revenge.

* * * *

He breathed deeply, filling his lungs. The fresh air felt purifying, helping him think clearer. For years, his need for revenge had been a thorn in his side. Keeping him uncomfortable enough to never forget it was there. Nagging until nothing else mattered but removing it. Finding and forcing retribution on Callie Jones had been his only option.

The only way he’d kept sane was working. He’d worked tirelessly, day after day, year after year until he’d received his first break. It had been hard, but with the rise of the Internet he’d finally made it big. Starting a dot com business had seemed like learning a foreign language, only twice as hard. Making hand-tooled leather goods himself had been tedious, but he required perfection if his name was to be on the finished product, and perfection is what his customers got.

Now, though, he had enough money and power that he had others to do the work for him. Machines, as well as people.

Now he spent his time making specialty items. He commissioned his time and talent to the highest bidder making a tidy little profit on the side. His saddles and gear were the best on the market. Many Hollywood cowboys would be sporting his hand-tooled leather boots this year. In was enough to make a true Texan laugh.

He didn’t hear his mother enter his room. She was like a shadow moving across the wooden floor, making no sound as she stepped out onto the patio. When she spoke in her soft yet strong voice, he listened with his heart yet his mind fought against the words.

“This will come back to haunt you, Mica. What you have done is not right. Nothing you do in the future will make it right. You must end it now.”

He walked to where his mother stood. She was a sturdy woman with ample curves and a beautiful smile, yet small in stature. Kneeling so he was closer to her height, he grasped her hands, beseeching her to understand. “I can’t, mother. I won’t allow it to end, not when it’s just begun. You know this as well as I do. I have to do it, because if I don’t, I will never reclaim what was once in here.” He motioned to his chest where his heart beat steadily.

“I fear, u we tsi, son, that if you continue on the road you have chosen you will loose what you hold so close. You have never lost what is in your heart, you’ve merely buried it.”

He watched his mother’s face as she studied his with loving eyes. He hated disappointing her, but he’d chosen his path in life and he intended to stick to that path.

He checked his watch. Fifteen minutes, she had fifteen minutes left. If he had to go and collect her she would be sorry. She would probably be sorry either way because once he had her, he never intended to let her go. He planned to use the feelings she’d once had for him against her. To play her body and heart until she had no choice but to relent, to give him everything he wanted while she begged for more. The time was close at hand, and he was looking forward to it.

*

Delia leaned close and kissed Mica’s forehead before he left the porch. She would never agree with his insistence on revenge, but neither would she interfere with his plans.

He was her son, her life. Although she could never condone his actions, she felt that in the long run, he might get more than he bargained for. Her only hope was that little Callie did not suffer in the process. For she was his one true love whether the stubborn Cherokee would admit it or not.

CHAPTER THREE

After watching Mica’s car leave, Callie made her way around back. Next to the back door stood a sink where the ranch hands used to wash up before coming in for supper.

When she noticed the accumulation of grime on its surface, she changed her mind and headed into the house.

“Hold on just a minute, girl,” Max called to her. Callie held on to the doorknob to steady herself, the pain making her feel lightheaded. Once composed, she turned to Max trying to hide her grimace behind a wobbly smile. Evidently it didn’t work.

“When are ya gonna to learn to ask for help?” her burly foreman asked, his voice laced with concern.

“Probably never, Max. But I need it this time all the same.” After opening the door, Callie moved into the kitchen then promptly slumped into the nearest chair.

She started to unsnap her shirt, but blushed furiously when he made to help.

“Now don’t go getting’ all ruffled up on me, girl. I used to change your soggy butt when you were still just a pup,” he chided.

“I know, Max and I’m much obliged.” She said the words, but could still feel the blush as it moved from her neck all the way up to the roots of her hair.

“Wooo, Wheee,” he whistled. “That’s some stick of wood you’ve got there.”

Great, that was just the news she wanted to hear. Sucking in air, she stifled the welling cry of pain eager to tear free of her throat.

“It’s a doozie alright, but don’t you worry none girlie, I’ve had bigger cuts than that on my eyeball.” God, if she only had a dollar for every time he’d said that over the years, she’d be a very wealthy woman.

“Just do it, Max because then you’ll need to help me with my damned shoulder.” It wasn’t the first time it had been hurt and it probably wouldn’t be the last, but that didn’t mean it got any easier.

“You done gone and throwed yer shoulder out too?” She wanted to laugh at the accusation in his voice, but pain clawed at her side as he poured what felt like liquid fire over her wound, stealing her breath.

When she finally caught her breath, she hissed out between clenched teeth, “No, not this time. It’s just bruised, but gettin’ stiffer by the minute.”

“Sorry ‘bout that. Had to do some cleaning so I could see which way it went in.”

“What in the hell did you use, whisky?” She couldn’t help the smart-assed remark any more than she could stop the pain tearing through her side.

“Now don’t go cursing at me, girl. I used alcohol just as I always do when you go gettin’ yerself beat up in someway or another. Now hold on cause this is gonna hurt like the dickens,” he said, then yanked the thick three-inch splinter of wood from beneath her flesh.

* * * *

With little time to spare, Callie slowly made her way up the front steps of the huge ranch house she’d soon be calling home. She thought back on those very words and laughed bitterly. This wouldn’t be a home, but a jail cell.

Her side ached and burned with every move, and although Max had iced her shoulder, it was still tender and sore.

Afterward, the pain had been too much and before she could catch her breath, Max had stuffed a muscle relaxant down her throat. She could think straight now, but in a little while she would more than likely be off snoring and drooling in her own little world.

All things considering, that wasn’t such a bad thing.

Callie rang the doorbell trying not to gape at the sheer magnificence of the house.

The steps leading to the wrap around porch were bracketed on each side by pillars reminding her of farmhouses of old.

There was a large window off to the right that looked like the prefect place to spend a sunny afternoon curled up with a good book. Not that she’d had time in the past several years to actually read a book, but a woman was entitled to dream, wasn’t she?

The front door opened and Callie looked up to see a familiar smiling face.

“Come in, Callie. Come in,” the woman told her and motioned Callie inside.

It took Callie a moment to recognize the woman, but once she did, her face broke into a wide smile. “Mrs. Blackfeather, is that really you?” Callie said as she stepped through the door.

“Delia, dear, and yes, it’s me.”

It was so good to hear her softly spoken voice that Callie didn’t even notice when Mica entered the foyer behind her.

“Now come here and let me look at you.” Her face scrunched up with worry. “What has happened?” she asked looking over Callie’s shoulder.

Callie knew who was behind her without even looking. “I’m fine, Delia,” she answered, giving what she hoped was a confident smile.

“Have you eaten?” Mica asked from behind her. His warm breath feathered across the nape of her neck causing her to shiver. Callie shook her head as she answered. “No, but I’m not hungry right now.

“Later then. Now, I’ll show you to our room and help you get settled.”

Callie inhaled deeply, silently praying for intervention. How in the world was she going to manage to keep the fact that Mica could make her body burn a secret?

Her skin tingled where he touched her. The feel of his warm hand against her arm made her want to lean into his body. Why not? She wondered. Since you’ve given your word to submit, you might as well enjoy it. Not only that, but you’ve vowed upon your father’s grave to do whatever necessary to get the Triple J back, she silently reminded herself.

*

Mica watched Callie. She seemed skittish, not at all like the confident woman he’d watched earlier. He wondered if the thought of being in his bed was what was making her so nervous.

Her eyes seemed glazed and far away. Something wasn’t right. He could feel it deep down inside.

“You alright, Callie?”

“Hmm,” she answered. Then shaking her head as if to clear it, she added. “Oh, yea, I’m okay.”

Fighting the growing need clawing at his very core was no longer an option.

Grabbing her bags, he motioned for her to follow him. He hoped she liked their room, that she would feel comfortable and free within its walls. Where did that thought come from? He had no idea why he hoped such a thing and wouldn’t dwell on it because to do so could open him up for a hurt much more severe than what he’d known in the past.

Looking over his shoulder, he noticed that Callie seemed to be slowing down. She seemed to be struggling with the stairs. Something wasn’t right. The darned woman was like a wind up toy, always ready to go. Nope, he thought, something was wrong, and as soon as they were behind the closed door of their room, he intended to find out.

When he made it to the top of the stairs, he proceeded down the hall where he opened the door to the master bedroom. He glanced back to see Callie reaching the top step, holding on tightly to the railing.

She swayed a bit, and he dropped her bags and made a mad dash for her. Mica caught Callie just before she tumbled back down the stairs. He then yelled for his mother who had witnessed the whole thing and was already making her way up the steps.

“Something is wrong,” he said as he carried Callie into the bedroom and gently laid her on the huge bed.

“I thought she looked a little peeked, but assumed it was the combined stress of loosing her home and marrying all in one day.”

There was no censure in his mother’s voice. No aim to place blame. She was merely making a statement.

“There was an accident today and Callie was hurt, but she… she told me she would take care of it.” Damn, he wished Callie would open her eyes and tell him where she hurt.

Reaching under her side, he attempted to pull her lightweight jacket free from the weight of her body but stopped short when his action caused her to gasp then moan.

“Let me look,” said Delia.

He watched as his mother released the buttons on the front of Callie’s clean shirt.

Wrapped around her side and taped securely was a pristine white bandage. It was a huge white rectangle except for the ever-growing blood-red blotch that seemed to appear out of nowhere.

“Go and grab the first aid kit, Mica.” Her voice had grown stern. As always, his mother could take over any situation. The gentle soft-spoken woman was no more. Not when someone was in need. At those times, she could rival the best of generals.

Mica couldn’t seem to move. His feet were rooted to the floor just as his eyes were stuck on the ring of red as it bled through the white bandage. Had he caused this? The thought was disturbing. He may have insisted she marry him, and even planned every step of her downfall, but not in a million years would he have wanted to see her physically hurt.

“It is not as bad as it looks, Mica. Now please go and get me the first aid kit.”

With his mother’s reassurance that Callie would be okay, Mica did as he was asked, returning to the room as quickly as he could. What he saw upon his return took his breath away. His mother had removed Callie’s jacket and shirt leaving her bare from the waist up, except for her bra. If you could call it that. The contraption was threadbare and barely covered the twin mounds of her breasts.

His mouth watered at the thought of tasting her. Would she taste the same as she had as a seventeen-year-old girl? Mica doubted it. There was nothing at all child-like about the woman in front of him.

She fidgeted as his mother removed the blood-soaked bandage. Once again, Mica mentally kicked himself. Here she was lying on the bed passed out for whatever reason and he couldn’t stop thinking about how the ripe berries of her delectable nipples would taste as he drew them into his mouth, teasing them with his lapping tongue.

The mental picture those thoughts brought to his mind had his cock standing at attention. If her breasts were so attractive, he wondered, what would her pussy be like?

Did she shave or stay more natural? Was she tanned everywhere?

She groaned again and he wanted to do the same. The thought of nude sunbathing brought a plethora of mental pictures to mind.

“Sit next to her, Mica. I’m going to clean the wound now. It looks like it was already done, but I won’t take any chances with my new daughter.”

Mica knew his mother had always liked Callie, but to call her daughter was an expression of love and devotion his mother didn’t make lightly.

He sat on the edge of the bed then took Callie’s hand in his own. Rubbing soothing circles across her palm, he watched as his mother touched an antiseptic soaked pad to the angry red welt on Callie’s side.

Callie’s face scrunched up and her breath hissed a moment before her eyes popped open. What she did next stunned him. Her fingers laced with his as a single tear worked its way down her cheek. She motioned for him to move closer and when he did, she said,

“I gave you my word to save my ranch. Just give me a little while for the pills to wear off and I’m all yours.”

She closed her eyes again, but he continued to stare at her. He wasn’t sure how he felt about what she’d just said. His emotions were all jumbled. She was willing to give her body to him to save the Triple J. And she was willing to do it in spite of the fact that she could hardly keep her eyes focused from the pain and whatever pills she’d taken. He felt like cow shit, and with good reason.

He wanted her body, every curvaceous inch of it, and he didn’t care what he had to do to accomplish his goal. Or at least that was what he’d thought. Now, when he had it within his grasp, it was all falling apart.

Now, he wanted her beneath him only if she wanted to be. Because she couldn’t resist being filled by him. Because she longed to be held and possessed and loved by him.

Not because it would save her ranch.

Whoa there! Where in the hell did that come from? No way. He may learn to enjoy everything she had to offer, but he wouldn’t allow his heart to become entangled in this thing he’d started. It was becoming quite a mess, and all in the name of revenge.

CHAPTER FOUR

Three days later, Callie was still slightly sore, but couldn’t stay idle a minute longer.

She rose bright and early. She dressed then stood staring at the plank of wood that had caused the whole episode. She kept it nestled away in her duffle bag, which was being stored in the back of Mica’s very large walk-in closet.

Whenever she was alone and needed company, she removed it from the bag to look at it, to feel the grain of the wood under her hand. To remember a time when things were good, and to pray for a new beginning.

The ritual seemed pretty silly, but it helped. Today, however, she was sure she’d go batty if she didn’t do something. Mica and Delia had spent the past three days hovering over her, never letting her out of their sight or out of the house.

Today all of that was going to change.

One last peek in the mirror to be sure her long blond hair was still tightly pulled back in its usual braid, and she was ready. She made her way through the hallway and down the stairs where she could hear quiet conversation coming from the kitchen.

She wondered for a moment whether she should just sneak out the door and skip the argument she was sure was to come.

Might as well pay the piper, she thought and headed for the kitchen. Sneaking just wasn’t her thing, so she squared her shoulders and walked proudly into the kitchen.

“Mornin’,” she said. Instead of grabbing a cup of coffee, she went to the fridge and popped open a can of soda.

“Morning, Callie,” they both replied. She could feel Delia staring at her, almost through her, as if making sure she was well enough to be out of bed.

“I’m fine, Delia. Really,” she told the woman as she turned and laid a hand on her shoulder.

“Alright, my daughter. You know better than anyone else what your body will endure,” Delia answered sounding satisfied.

The term, my daughter, brought a smile to Callie’s face. It was a nice feeling. Delia smiled in return.

Delia excused herself from the table and Callie finally felt safe enough to look Mica’s way.

He was a fine specimen. Bronze skin stretched taut over high cheekbones and a square jaw. His eyes were the color of gunmetal and grew dark as his lust grew, like now.

His hair was fashionably long and held back with a leather thong. It glinted blue against the sunlight shining through the curtained window. She bet it fell long and straight to below his collar when he didn’t have it pulled back. Her fingers itched to feel it, to stroke the silky-looking strands. To use it as an anchor while she held him close so she could devour his mouth as she rode him throughout the night.

He cleared his throat. The rough sound brought her out of her reverie.

“Keep looking at me like that, baby and I’ll have you right here across the kitchen table.”

The growl of his voice made her want to purr in return.

“I’m sorry,” she whispered trying not to concentrate on the slick heat now present between her thighs.

She watched avidly as he pushed his chair away from the table. He motioned her to him with one hand. Her heart screamed for her to stay put, but the throbbing ache at the apex of her thighs insisted she go.

The need for release, to feel his length buried deep inside her, was overwhelming.

When she was in front of him, he grasped her hips and pulled her closer until she had no choice but to straddle the chair and his lap. The position aligned her center with the large swell beneath the fly of his jeans.

He was a mature man now, no longer a gangly youth. If she was gauging the size of his arousal correctly then the width of his shoulders wasn’t the only thing that had grown since she’d last felt him under her.

Her panties were drenched. Her nipples ached and peaked in an attempt to draw his attention. The hands at her hips pulled her impossibly closer at the same time his mouth settled over hers.

His breath tasted of coffee, warm and dark. His lips were firm and drew her in like a moth to flame. Her hands were useless appendages; she wasn’t quite sure what to do with them. Could she be so bold as to loosen his hair and run her fingers through it?

Her palms tingled with the thought, a need she could no longer hold back.

Tentatively, she smoothed her fingers up his broad shoulder until one rested on the nape of his neck. She felt corded muscle was beneath her hand. She allowed her fingers to wander, to trace the muscle as her other hand made its way to his hair. When her fingers buried themselves in the hair just above his ear, he groaned, his hips lifting toward her causing the fabric of her jeans to rub against her slick, swollen folds.

She moaned in return. The sound must have brought him back from wherever he’d been, because he disengaged his lips from hers. He rested for a minute, his forehead against her chest, breathing deeply, as if he were trying to compose himself.

Each deep breath he exhaled feathered across her breasts. It was a wonderful feeling, but in no way helped to calm her nerves or her over-sensitive nipples, which were screaming for more.

Aggravation coursed through her when he lifted her from his lap. Setting her on her feet, he rose to his own, towering above her.

“Not now, baby. I’ve got things to do. I’ll see you at dinner.” With those words, the damned fool walked right out the back door.

“Well, hell,” she muttered, as she snatched her hat off the hook beside the back door.

Placing it on her head, she let herself outside. Her truck was parked out front. It probably would have been easier to walk through the house than around it, but she’d been curious to see which way Mica had gone.

No such luck though, because all she caught was a flash of taillight as his car disappeared down the dirt road toward the highway.

It was going to be one hell of a long day, she thought as she made her way to her truck.

“You might as well spend it working.”

“What was that, Callie?” Delia asked. Callie turned around to see her in soil-covered gardening gloves with a basket of freshly picked vegetables under her arm.

“Oh nothing … I was just talking to myself, I guess.” She nodded her goodbye and was reaching for the rusty handle of the door when she added, “I’m going to the Triple J.

If you need something send someone to fetch me, okay?”

“Sure, but you be careful.”

The woman was actually worried about her. What a new concept. For so many years, it had been just her and Max taking care of each other while trying to dodge Maxine.

Seemed strange to have someone to answer to who genuinely cared.

“I will, I promise,” she said with a smile before she revved the engine and took off.

* * * *

The perpetual hard on raring to go in his pants kept him in a sour mood throughout the day. How could one slip of a woman keep a man so frazzled and on edge? Adjusting the fit of his jeans, Mica climbed into his car and headed for home.

Mica stopped in front of the house and waited for the dust to settle before climbing from the car. He immediately noticed that Callie’s truck was gone. Where in the world could she have gone off to, he wondered in aggravation. He was sweaty and grungy and wanted nothing more than to take a steaming hot shower, eat a huge dinner then bury himself to the hilt in the tight clasp of her warm and wet pussy.

His mother met him at the door with a worried look on her face. “Is Callie with you, Mica?”

“Why would she be with me? I haven’t seen her since this morning.” He was getting angry, but there was no use in shooting the messenger. “Sorry,” he said shaking his head.

“When did she leave?”

“You’re angry, Mica. Sit down and relax a minute. I’ll call for Callie.” If he wasn’t seeing red, he might have had a laugh at how protective his mother was of her.

“Just tell me where she is so I can bring her home, then I’ll rest.”

“She’s at the Triple J.”

His scowl grew fiercer and he did nothing to hide it. “What time did she leave?” he asked once again reaching for his hat.

“This morning, just after you did, but…” she started, only to be stopped by the back door opening.

In walked Callie. Mud streaked her face as well as who knew where else. Her boots were caked with the sticky red stuff, her jacket splattered.

Mica cleared his throat in an effort not to growl at her. She looked like a dirty little pixie. Her hair had dots of mud dirtying its normally lustrous sheen. Wisps danced around her face, framing her oval features. He let his eyes travel over every inch of her filth-clad body and longed to take her in his arms. To strip her until she was gloriously nude, then watch while the water of the shower cascaded over the mounds of her breasts before trailing into the valley between her legs.

That didn’t sound like a bad idea at all. “Take off your boots,” he commanded, not at all worried that his mother was still watching. Her keen eyes were catching more than he would have liked.

“My what?” she asked shivering either from the dampness of her clothes or, he hoped, her own arousal. Her eyes followed his until she was staring straight down. “Oh!”

she exclaimed.

“I’m so sorry, Delia. I didn’t mean to dirty your floor.” She apologized as she struggled to remove her muddy boots.

“Quite alright, dear. Don’t you worry about it. Now both of you go on and get cleaned up. Dinner will be ready in an hour.”

After she spoke, Delia turned away then walked to the large pantry off the kitchen.

“Where have you been?” Mica asked although he already knew the answer.

“At home. Working.”

He wanted to shake her silly. Didn’t she understand that the Triple J was no longer her home? Evidently not, but she would soon enough. In one fell swoop, he picked her up and slung her over his shoulder.

It couldn’t be a very comfortable position, but it was the path of least resistance. He must have shocked her because he was almost up the stairs before she thought to struggle.

A firm whack to her bottom quieted her down real quick and made him smile in the process. There was just something about spanking a wriggling ass that sent his sexual desire to an all time high, and expanded his possessive streak as well, until it was a mile wide.

Without a word, he lifted her off his shoulder, settling her on her feet in the middle of the large bathroom floor. He began removing his clothes.

“What do you think you’re doing?” she gasped when he reached for the silver belt buckle at his waist. Her eyes were riveted on his groin making him hotter, and impossibly harder.

Ignoring her frantic question, he said, “I know you don’t think so yet, but this is where you live. Blackfeather Lodge will be your home from now on. So get used to it.”

“I may live here, Mica, but that doesn’t make it my home. I was born and raised on the Triple J. Just because I couldn’t save it myself doesn’t make it any less my home. So you get used to that!”

She was getting angry. Color rode high on her cheeks. Her tiny little fists were resting on her luscious hips. His cock jerked in response to her angry stance.

“Mica,” she warned, as he pushed his pants and briefs down past his knees.

He watched her intently, allowing his heavy-lidded eyes to flash the lust he felt. The length of his jutting arousal told the rest of the story all by itself.

“Undress, baby. I think it’s time we made this marriage real.” He didn’t wait for her to comply or reacted to her look of shock. Instead, he unfastened the snap at her waist then slowly, heatedly, he pushed the damp and dirty fabric down until it pooled on the floor at her ankles. Her plain cotton briefs soon followed.

Next came her denim jacket and finally her western shirt and bra. The sight of her standing gloriously nude before him brought a sigh of relief. It was like Santa Claus showing up a day early; it sorta made you all jittery with excitement.

Mica started the shower, making it hot enough to ease tight muscles and steam up the bathroom. He stepped in then pulled Callie in right behind him. Holding her slick body in his arms, he rubbed his hands up and down the indention of her spine until she relaxed against him. Her body curved into his. Melding together, they gave in to their desire.

He turned her around then ran his hands up her sides, lifting her arms high above her head. “Grab on just behind the shower head, baby, and don’t let go.”

She did as he asked, but her body squirmed, causing her ass to jiggle attractively. It was like a beacon for his touch.

Lathering up the fluffy pink shower puff she’d brought with her, he started with her feet and worked his way up. He remembered she was extremely sensitive behind her knees and at the nape of her neck so he made sure to caress every inch of delicate pink flesh of both locations.

Several times he’d had to admonish her to keep her hands up. Several light taps to her fleshy ass cheeks got his point across.

“Mica,” she groaned straining to get closer to him as she held on for dear life.

“Shhh. Don’t talk.”

She kept fairly quiet, at least she didn’t talk, But every now and then she made the sexiest whimpering noise. It was almost a purring sound, deep and mysterious as if it came from the depths of her very soul.

When he dropped to his knees behind her, tracing her lower spine with his tongue, she cried out.

“Please, Mica,” she begged.

Her plea earned her another stinging swat to her wet bottom. “I said no talking, baby.” He knew he was torturing her, but he couldn’t seem to help himself.

Moving lower, his mouth suckled the skin on her inner thigh. He penetrated her deeply with a finger, watching as it disappeared through her nether lips to be imbedded deep within her body. Her muscles clamped down on the single digit, then quivered slightly before clenching repeatedly in a multitude of full-fledged spasms.

Her breathing was ragged and shallow, her knees weak, but she’d held on just as he’d instructed.

“Come on, darlin’. I think you’re ready for the real thing now,” he said just before he gathered her close and carried her into the bedroom. Their bodies dripped, leaving a trail across the thickly piled carpet, but neither of them seemed to notice. Lips and teeth collided in an attempt to devour. As their lust grew, so did their appetite for each other.

Mica settled Callie onto the large bed, positioning her as would best benefit his desire. He’d dreamed of her taste, of the feel of her, warm, wet and willing against his mouth. Now was the time to see if his dreams were close to reality.

CHAPTER FIVE

“Mica, oh! Dear Heaven, you’re killing me,” she wailed as his mouth traveled on a northerly path. His insistent tongue felt warm against her abdomen. He stopped his journey north and dipped his tongue into the valley of her navel.

She rolled and plucked her nipples until they were hard and erect. Thinking was a thing of the past, it had no place in the events now happening, she reminded herself, knowing darned well she would probably regret the whole episode tomorrow.

Right now though, it felt one hundred percent like the best choice ever.

Her hips lifted of their own accord as he changed directions and moved down to bury his face between her thighs. Knees wide, she welcomed him cooing, moaning meaningless words, words she didn’t even understand, as he took her swollen clit between his lips and sucked.

He looked up, a mischievous glint to his eye as she plucked and played with her nipples. Then he slowly, languidly lapped at her folds making sure to miss her clit every time.

She was right at the edge, needing nothing more than a tiny little nudge to send her over, but Mica seemed to be concentrating on holding her right at the brink, not allowing her the release her body was aching for.

With an anguished groan, she let go of her peaked nipples and eagerly tangled her hands in the silky length of his midnight hair in an attempt to bring him closer to the bundle of nerves right above her opening. It was swollen and tender, begging for attention.

“Uh, uh,” he tsked. “It’s not time yet.”

“Yes,” she panted, lifting her hips toward his face. “Yes, it is.”

When he only continued with the firm lapping of his tongue, she growled low and deep. “Mica Blackfeather, you’d better come up here now before I snatch you baldheaded!”

He chucked, his eyes trained on her as he rose from the feast laid before him. Sitting on his haunches between her splayed thighs, he drew her legs up until her bottom was elevated. Her feet were flat against his chest, her knees wide leaving her fully exposed to his every whim. Just the way he wanted her.

She devoured everything about him, keeping a mental diary of every emotion, every sensation involved so that when it was over, and she was once again alone, she would at least have this experience and these memories to take with her.

Lifting her head a bit, she lowered her gaze and watched. One of his large hands supported his length at the base of his shaft as he guided himself to her entrance.

The bulbous head of his penis was swollen. Clear fluid seeped from its slitted eye as the rope-like vein extending from base to tip pulsed with life. With gentle but firm pressure, he worked the blood engorged tip past the tight ring of muscle guarding her entrance. She felt every inch, every twitch as he disappeared into her body one tiny thrust at a time.

When he was completely imbedded within her vagina, he stilled. The lack of movement drove her crazy. “Kiss me,” she sighed, the small bit of pain she felt at his initial thrust abating only to be replaced by unequivocal pleasure.

He leaned forward, straightening his body in the process, causing them to not only be joined sexually, but to be touching, flesh to flesh, from head to toe.

“Kiss me back, baby,” he whispered and held her head still, pressing his lips to hers, and doing as she asked.

The kiss was deep. Callie had never experienced a kiss with such emotion before, not even the first time she and Mica had been together. His hands held her head captive as his tongue plundered the depths of her mouth.

When he broke the kiss, she traced the seam of his lips with her tongue. His head turned away from her and for one heart wrenching second she thought he was going to pull away, to leave her.

Instead, his mouth nipped and sucked at the flesh of her jaw, working its way down until he reached the curve of her neck where she was ultra sensitive. A stinging love bite made her shudder around his length, wringing a masculine groan from his lips. Mica’s groan was rough, enticing every nerve in her body to greater heights of lust-filled insanity. His tongue soothed the responsive expanse of flesh where he bit her.

“If you don’t move, I think I may go crazy,” she said staring into the dark pools of his eyes. No longer were they calculating and cold. Eyes that were usually the color of gunmetal, a sharp gray, were now smoky and warm. They traced every feature of her face.

His hands grasped her wrists firmly, pinning them on the mattress, one on each side of her head. When he started to retreat she tensed, the tight sheath of her pussy gripping his cock extremely tight. He was so hot inside her body she thought they’d go up in smoke. “Relax, baby,” he crooned in a near whisper, feathering his warm breath across her as he continued his perusal of her face.

As his hips continued their backward movement, Callie felt empty without him inside of her. She didn’t have time to ponder the irony of that for long, because he came back into her in one devastatingly sensual thrust.

Her mind blanked and her head seemed to float with immense pleasure. All things outside of the two of them ceased to exist. For now, nothing else mattered. There was no fear, no discomfort, only mind-shattering delight.

All control lost, Callie thrust her hips up to meet his. His movements became stronger, the length of him delved deeper as her body struggled to accommodate him. Her hands clenched and unclenched of their own accord causing his grip to unconsciously tighten around her wrists. He wanted to be in control. She had no problem with that, but next time she wanted to touch and to taste him just as he had touched and tasted her.

She was almost there. Her back arched thrusting her breasts forward where they grated across the coarse hair on his chest. Lifting her legs, Callie wrapped them around Mica’s back locking them together at the ankles giving him no option but to stay close.

The position ground them together. Her breasts were flattened against his chest, her engorged clit stimulated by every powerful thrust of his hips. Sounds of sex filled the otherwise quiet room. Flesh on flesh, groans and grunts were soon followed by an agonizing cry of completion as her body lifted and shuddered, the magnitude of her orgasm overwhelming in its intensity. Mica wasn’t far behind her. His primal roar of completion before he collapsed against her body was one of sheer gratification.

*

It seemed like hours before he found his way back to the here and now, but in reality it must have only been a matter of minutes. He’d been with many women over the years, but not one experience could measure up to the enormity of what Callie had just put his body through.

He was downright exhausted and in a good way.

Evidently Callie felt the same way. She mumbled a few incoherent words, rolled over until she was facing him and after a few seconds, was lightly snoring.

He took the time to study her without her knowledge. She looked much softer in her sleep. The furrows between her brows were relaxed making her appear much younger.

The way she had her hand tucked under her cheek made her mouth pucker, her lips pout, showing just the slightest bit of white teeth.

Leaning forward, Mica placed a tender kiss upon her lips. Something in him seemed to crumble with the touch and he wondered why the Great Spirit above would play such a cruel trick on him. Or had he played it on himself?

In the amount of time it had taken to make love to her, he’d come to realize one very important thing. He still loved her, and had probably never stopped. So why had he blamed her all these years and could he stop now?

How did you tell the woman you’d forced into marriage, the woman you’d blackmailed and damn near gotten killed, that you love her?

Damn! He had a horrible feeling that things were going to get real messy. The shit would probably hit the fan and hit it hard before he got it all figured out. Grimacing at the thought, he cuddled up behind Callie. His big body nestled close to her smaller frame. He wrapped his arm around her waist, cleared his mind of disturbing thoughts and then was finally able to relax and drift off to sleep himself.

* * * *

The next morning dawned bright and early just as Mother Nature intended, but instead of Mica rising with it, the only thing that rose was his cock. The darned thing really did have a brain of its own.

It throbbed to life as if to reach for Callie where she lay sprawled wantonly across his chest. The fingers of her one hand were tangled within the hairs of his chest, causing a bit of pain. That must be what woke me up, he thought with a chuckle.

Her other hand was resting precariously low on his abdomen. The head of his shaft was now mere millimeters from it. Running his hand up her hip, he continued until he met … fabric? He frowned trying to remember when she’d gotten out of bed.

He must have been worn out because he couldn’t recall hearing anything and wondered why she would wake up and dress. No matter, he’d be sure and take the offensive garment off of her before he ravished her from head to toe.

He slipped from beneath her as stealthy as possible, then starting with her hip, he kissed and caressed until he reached the dip of her waist. She was now laying on her side facing away from him offering up the best view of her still nude ass. And what a sight it was.

The twin globes were generously rounded. Her hips flared from her narrow waist.

They’d be perfect for birthing babies if the old wives’ tales were true. Mature and filled, the petal-pink skin was pale and creamy. He couldn’t hold back so he nibbled his way back down the curve of her waist. Then lying on his side, he moved his efforts to the base of her spine.

Her back arched. The cat-like motion thrust the swell of her cheeks right at his face.

Perfect, nothing like the buffet coming to you. A wickedly naughty smile crossed his lips as he gently bit the lowermost curve of her right cheek. His mind was whirling, his hand tingling to turn the pale expanse of skin in front of him a beautiful shade of pink.

Would she go for it? Could he afford her reaction if she freaked out on him?

Especially when he would more than likely spend the rest of his living days trying to make her believe just how much he loved her.

Coercion and blackmail were not the best ways to start out a relationship, that was for sure. But Mica had never considered himself a quitter. While he would never let her go, he would try his damnedest to give her back everything he’d taken from her, including her dignity.

The first order of business, right after making love to her, was for him to make the past few weeks right. To right all the wrongs he’d created and he’d start by picking the Triple J up off its last leg and giving it a new beginning.

As his mental list of things to do and people to contact grew, so did his cock.

Thickening and lengthening, it was ready for action. It seemed nothing he did could remove Callie from his train of thought and with her lying so close it was even worse. He constantly pictured her luscious body naked beneath him. Even with work to do, he still found himself semi-aroused. There was something about her scent, her taste that was enough to drive a man to drink. Right now though, the only thing he wanted to drink, to taste, was the wonderful spot between her legs that promised heat and unconditional pleasure without ever speaking a word.

The small bite he’d placed upon her ass had caused her to change positions. She was now sprawled on her back. One leg bent at the knee, foot flat on the mattress. The other kicked out to the side.

Perfect!

With deft fingers, he spread her nether lips taking a good look at her clit in its un-aroused state. Mica would have none of that. He wanted her as aroused as he was.

Mica licked the tip of one finger until it was wet with his own saliva before placing it upon the button of her clit. Rubbing round and round with firm pressure, he brought her out of her slumber.

She bolted upright in bed, but only stayed there for a moment. He then licked his finger again, tasting her essence. He snagged her gaze as he once again worked her clit until she was gasping for air. Her white-knuckled hands grasped the sheet as if holding on for dear life.

“How does that feel, baby?” he asked before he thrust his tongue deep into the heart of her. The firm pressure on her clit combined with his invading tongue sent her spiraling.

Her muscles tightened under his hand, as well as around his tongue as he thrust it in and out of her, lapping up every drop her body offered.

When she collapsed against the bed, he rose up. The smile on his face grew at the sight of her. Her sleep-tousled hair framed her face. For the most part it had all come loose of the braid she seemed to continuously wear. Her face had waffle lines from the creases on her pillowcase and her bottom lip was puffy and pink as if she’d been biting on it.

The need to nibble on her bottom lip was too strong to deny, so he swooped in on her mouth. She moaned as he tugged her lip with his teeth. The sound made him crazy. His cock was so hard he could probably drive nails with it. Instead, he drove it right into the depths of Callie’s welcoming body.

“Mornin’,” he said, as his body joined with hers.

She answered him with the same one-word phrase, and then added, “If this is your idea of a wake-up call, I’ll need a six o’clock from now on.”

She blushed prettily then gasped as he increased his pace. It seemed he’d discovered a better way to start the day than coffee, and he’d be sure and do so from now on.

CHAPTER SIX

It was hard to remember that she was at Blackfeather Lodge because she had no other choice. It was a wonderful place to live, spacious and open. Delia kept her company when Mica was out working, helping her through the tough spells.

The woman was amazing. Her wisdom bespoke her years and although she’d never spoken the words, Callie knew that she didn’t condone the way Mica had gone about bringing her to the ranch.

“Don’t think so hard, Callie,” said Delia from behind her, in that all-knowing voice.

“I know you were both hurt when Maxine made you leave the Triple J all those years ago and I’m not proud of my part in it, Delia, or that I did nothing to stop it, but at the time it seemed like my only choice.”

“This conversation is one best saved for Mica, Callie. I was hurt by nothing. The Great Spirit watches over us and leads us all along the paths of our life. I believe we are where we belong. The path you followed was your choice and you made it with the best interest of those you loved in mind. Never doubt that, dear. To do so would be to second guess your very nature.”

“But Delia,” Callie groaned. “He was a young man who lost his way due to something he had no control over.”

“And you had control over what happened?” she asked from behind Callie. The hand she placed on Callie’s shoulder was calming. Shaking her head, Callie let the rest of the conversation drop.

Callie could understand Mica’s feelings, she’d hurt him. His male pride had been severely bruised. At the time, though, she just couldn’t think of another way out. Another way to save him from himself and Maxine.

If he’d known the truth, he never would have left. She had reminded herself of that fact almost daily. It didn’t help the heartache, but at least he was free.

The sun was high overhead now, warm even with the breeze. It was nothing like that fateful day so long ago. She could clearly remember the heated words. Even eleven years later, she couldn’t forget.

* * * *

The wind had been blowing. The cold air was like a vine clinging to her, penetrating her clothes and seeping deep into her bones. She’d called him, asking him to meet her.

She’d told him it was important while trying to keep the tears from her voice and then after hanging up, when she could no longer hold the tears at bay, she’d cried.

The taste of tears was still fresh in her mind and the struggle she’d fought to halt the tears so he wouldn’t know. If he saw how upset she was he’d never believe her. And if he didn’t believe her, Maxine would make sure he lost not only his home but also his freedom.

The selfish woman had what she’d needed to use as leverage, leaving Callie no choice. The sorry excuse for a mother had evidently heard them in the barn. Knew that they’d been intimate. The fact that Mica was an adult and ten years older than Callie’s almost eighteen had caused a big argument between Maxine and Callie that night.

The feeling of dread as he’d rode up on his stallion had been breathtaking in its intensity. The enormity of what she was about to do made her chest ache with regret. The animal had been much more than a ranch horse, it had been like a member of his family.

She could only imagine the anguish he’d felt when he’d had to sell him.

She could still hear the sound of his booted feet on the hard dirt-packed ground ringing in her ears. His voice frantic with worry. “What’s the matter, Callie?” he’d asked. “You sounded like you were crying, baby. What’s wrong?”

God, how she’d wanted to throw herself into his arms and tell him everything. The humiliation she’d felt due to Maxine’s vicious words had been overwhelming. It took many years before she’d gotten over the hurt.

Praying that he’d believe her, that her acting would be good enough or his anger toward her so strong he’d leave before he thought to question her, she began. “Nothing’s wrong, Mica. I don’t know what gave you that idea.” Her heart broke at the confused look on his face.

“Then why did you call me?” He sounded suspicious now. It hadn’t been easy to earn his trust, but she had. And now she was going to throw it all away. You have no choice. The words whispered on the wind.

Squaring her shoulders she said what she knew would put an end to their relationship. “I couldn’t stand keeping a secret any longer, Mica. I’ve been seeing someone, and I wanted to be the one to tell you before you heard it somewhere else.”

His look changed from one of confusion to red-hazed anger. “Who is he, Callie?” he demanded. His voice had sounded rusty as if he didn’t use it often. His color had gone pale, but his eyes … those beautiful gray eyes had turned to ice.

“I said who is he?” The demand was enunciated in a frigid tone.

It had taken every ounce of her cool to remain composed. It seemed funny to her now. Now she could almost always hide the inner turmoil threatening to tear her apart.

Eleven years was a long time to teach yourself the finer aspects of covering up. Never allow your emotions to show unless you don’t mind having them used against you. That was the valuable lesson Maxine had taught her. The only lesson.

* * * *

It was too painful to remember all that had gone on that day. All the vulgar words he’d called her in his fit of rage and no matter how hard she tried, she’d never been able to get over the tortured look in his eyes. The steel gray of his orbs had gone almost lifeless after he’d told her exactly what he thought of her. What a slut she was and how he wouldn’t take sloppy seconds if they’d been handed to him on a silver platter.

She would have preferred it had he hit her. Surely a physical blow wouldn’t have been nearly as painful as his verbal attack.

The very next day, Maxine had evicted both Mica and Delia from the ranch. With no explanation from Maxine, she could only assume that Mica thought it had been her idea.

Now that his revenge had panned out, she knew she’d been right.

If only she could tell him the truth now, but what would it accomplish other than to dredge up old, painful memories?

Callie didn’t want that to happen. There may be awkward moments for them. Some days there were more than others, but she wouldn’t ruin the good times by bringing up the past.

The good times. It was amazing, but they seemed to be having quite a few of them lately. It seemed that each day more and more smiles and laughs were shared between the three of them. Callie was afraid it was the calm before the storm, but she refused to let her fear dampen the fun.

And the nights. The nights were heaven. Filled with loving and touching, caressing and kissing. It broke her heart not to give Mica every little piece of her, but she wasn’t so sure she would be able to survive when he finally decided he no longer wanted her around.

Her head was starting to throb. It seemed that no matter how she tried to straighten it all out, it just remained jumbled. The Triple J was still standing, but she feared it wouldn’t be for long. She spent a lot of her time walking around on eggshells, afraid she might say something to offend or anger Mica, and then she would lose the ranch.

The only real argument the two of them had so far was about how much time she spent working at the Triple J. That one was almost a daily battle so Callie had taken to getting up extra early to help with chores at Blackfeather Lodge. It made for long, tiring days, but it made her feel better.

It was a very uncomfortable sensation to be beholden to someone for everything you had. From the food in your mouth to the roof over your head. The stress was enough to give anyone a headache, she thought as she rubbed the back of her neck.

Holding back was tiring work too, but she couldn’t fall in love with him again, she couldn’t. And even if she wanted to, it wouldn’t matter. Between losing her father, her first and only love, and allowing Maxine to tear out what was left, her heart was in tatters.

A shell of its former self. Losing the ranch had been the final blow From now on, she’d do what she must to survive, and enjoy, as much as possible, what she’d made of her life, but it could go no further. She wasn’t free to go, but she also wasn’t meant to stay. It was like being stuck between a rock and a hard spot, she mused silently.

She’d witnessed a positive change in Mica over the past few days, and it hurt her deeply to think he might care for her. Was it just another way to exact his plan of revenge? It didn’t really matter because there was no room in her heart for another loss.

* * * *

Mica walked in the back door. Dusty from a hard day’s work, he placed his hat on the free hook then turned around in hopes that Callie would be somewhere close. No one was in the kitchen, which was strange.

Normally the early evening hours caused a commotion of activity in the spacious room. Just recently, the room had been company to boisterous laughter as well as intelligent conversation. But right now it was empty and quiet. Too quiet.

Walking through the room and into the living room, he found his mother looking out the bay window. Her arms crossed over her chest as she stood there.

Without turning around, she spoke to him. “She is fighting something deep inside her, u we tsi. I cannot speak of it, but I do know that keeping her here is hurting her. You must let her go. Allow her the freedom of her choice, Mica. Let her come back on her own.”

He could see her out the window, watching her just as his mother had been and he could feel her uncertainty, the anguish flowing through her. It was unrelenting, all consuming. The past few weeks had brought them closer, and for the most part she seemed happy, but it was obvious she wasn’t. “I can’t e tsi,” Mica used the Cherokee word for mother, trying to get her to understand.

He shook his head. Callie’s pain was palpable. It cocooned him tightly, suffocatingly so, but to let her go was asking too much.

“Then tell her, Mica. You must forgive her to truly love her. Have you been able to forgive her for what was not her fault to start with?”

Just the thought of the past made him angry. To remember how they’d been thrown out of their home to live like animals on the street made him want to hit something. It was hard to release hate that went so deep it seemed to be part of your soul.

“I don’t know, but I don’t want to talk about it. To bring it up would be of no help now. Don’t you see?” His voice pleaded for her to understand.

“I’m trying to forget, to love Callie without allowing the past to interfere. It’s the only way.”

“It is your choice, Mica, but if you cannot forgive what you believe Callie to be guilty of, neither of you will find happiness, true happiness. You may have some wonderful days, but it is the ones like today that will eat at you.” She motioned to where Callie still sat on the steps to the porch.

Her face was now in her hands, her shoulders slumped as if the weight of the world was at rest upon them.

“Go to her. If you cannot tell her, then you must at least show her.” With those enlightening last words she walked silently from the room.

Mica made his way out the front door. For a minute he just stood there. The air was warm and still, but he could smell her scent. Her long blond braid was hanging over her shoulder. It looked magnificent as the light radiated off of its lustrous strands. It could probably touch the wood beneath her its length was so great.

“Why don’t you ever leave it down?” he asked.

She jumped at his voice, not realizing she had company. “What?”

“Your hair. Why don’t you ever leave it down? You used to let me brush it, do you remember?”

“Yes,” her voice was quiet, choked. “You used to say it was pure a ga li ha , sunshine,” she added remembering the word he’d taught her so long ago that it now seemed like a lifetime.

He walked around her and then squatted until he could look into her face since she hadn’t yet turned to him. Her eyes brimmed with tears she valiantly tried to blink away.

He was afraid to touch her for fear she might shatter or run. It hurt so much to see the misery in her eyes. Especially since she tried so hard to hide it.

“Yes, u wo du hi-a ga li ha, beautiful sunshine. I’ve not spoken the words since.

There is just something about this place, about this land that speaks to me, and you’re part of it, Callie.” He kissed her lips tenderly. He could sense she wasn’t responding to his kiss. He broke away and asked, “What’s wrong, darlin?”

Her head shook, but she spoke no words. Once again, her eyes were downcast, refusing to look his way. No longer able to handle her silence, he lifted her then sat where she’d been.

She gave no struggle, but her body stiffened as he cradled her in his arms. “It’s okay, Callie. Whatever it is, it’s gonna be alright. You’ll see, baby.” He kissed her temple, then lower and tasted the salty moisture of her tears.

He lifted Callie in his arms then strode quickly from the porch through the front door and up the stairs into their bedroom. He had to have her alone, all to himself. The shaking of her shoulders tore him apart. The way she suffered silently, without so much as a muffled sob made his chest ache.

What made it even worse was the fact that he was probably the cause. She’d lost her mother and her home in a month’s time, and he hadn’t offered a single word of condolence. Instead he’d made her life a prison sentence.

He laid her gently on the bed and then slowly removed her clothes. Her jeans seemed to fade more with each wash. They were worn and old but now seemed to hang on her.

She ate little, and it was starting to show.

The cotton of her white panties was just as worn as her threadbare bra. It hadn’t really dawned on him before, but she never asked for anything for herself, and on several occasions had even refused to go to town with him.

Even after putting in a long day’s work, she asked for nothing in return. And he hadn’t offered. The thought made him sick.

He may be taking steps toward their future, one that would hopefully be much happier for Callie than today had been, but he’d done nothing to offer her comfort right now. It was time that changed.

“Lift up, baby,” he coaxed as he pulled the comforter from beneath her. Her breathing was quiet, but choppy. Silent sniffles wracked her body, but her eyes were now dry.

She didn’t say a word as he undressed, merely watched with her red-rimmed green eyes. When he knelt beside the bed and turned her head from him, she still remained silent. It wasn’t until he removed the band securing her braid that she spoke.

“Why do you want my hair down?”

“I want to feel it around me just as I feel the tight clasp of your pussy around my cock.”

Her breath hitched at his words. His fingers separated the strands of the thick braid then continued to work it until it was loose around her.

When he had it arranged the way he wanted, he climbed onto the bed and shrouded her body with his. Tangling his hands in her hair, he pressed his length deep into her wet center.

Her moans of pleasure were a balm to his soul. A reaffirmation that all would be okay.

Rolling over, he pulled her atop him while keeping them intimately connected.

Grasping her hips, he lifted and lowered her, setting a mind-blowing rhythm that would have her screaming his name.

Her head flew back as he fondled her breasts, rolling each nipple between his fingers. They’d not loved slowly, sensually, before. It was an experience worth reliving.

Her hair tickled and tantalized his thighs, When she leaned in to kiss him, it curtained them, cutting off the rest of the world.

In that moment only the two of them existed.

“I can’t wait,” she panted.

“Then don’t,” he groaned, as she ground herself against him burying him deeper within her folds. “Ride me, cat eyes. Ride me like the wind.”

And she did. Erotic sensations took over, and for the time, bliss crossed her features replacing the pain that had been there earlier. When their bodies were spent, Callie collapsed upon his chest. Her panting breaths matched his.

Mica felt chilled when she let his flaccid length slide from her body to lie in front of him. To remedy the problem he lay behind her in spoon fashion, pulling her as close as possible. Her breathing was soft and steady, her body warm as it fit snugly against his.

He pulled her close as he whispered, “I love you, Callie.”

He then drifted off to sleep. His sated body in its rest did not see the tears streaming down her cheeks. Nor did it feel the breaking of her heart as she wondered if she could believe the words he’d spoken.

CHAPTER SEVEN

It was really hard to stay away from someone you wanted, with your whole being, to be around. But it was too dangerous to chance her heart that way.

Waking before he did became a challenge since he’d taken to rising earlier and earlier in order to catch her before she dressed and left the house. Working herself to the ground seemed as good a way as any to accomplish the mighty task of being alone.

The early morning hours were spent cleaning stalls and feeding the horses of Blackfeather Lodge. She’d even taken to riding a beautiful mare named Little Girl. Aptly named, Little Girl was gentle as a breeze and responded well to Callie’s touch.

It felt great to ride again, to feel the wind as it flowed over her body, tossing her braid around. It had been years for Callie. The Triple J had only one working horse left.

Max used the old gelding on a daily basis leaving no time for pleasure riding.

Every afternoon for the past week, Callie had worked the Triple J side by side with Max. The old codger never asked questions, but his eyes had a way of looking at a person letting them know he was as sharp as a tack. It was a bit disconcerting, but Max was the closest thing to family she had left, so she put up with the knowing looks, and worked until dark every day she could get away with it.

Which wasn’t many given the way Mica had taken to showing up out of the blue to drag her home. The man really was a bully, thought Callie with a bit of a smile on her face.

The first few times he’d shown up at the Triple J, they’d fought like cats and dogs.

She’d ended up over his shoulder again with Max guffawing in the background.

“Traitor!” she’d yelled at the old man, watching from her upside down position over Mica’s shoulder as he walked away.

The words she’d saved for Mica hadn’t been nearly as nice, earning her a punishing kiss that swiftly turned passionate, blazing out of control. For hours afterwards, her lips had felt bruised, and this morning she noticed a red spot, just a bit off center of her bottom lip.

The idiot! How in the hell was she going to cover up a hickey when it was plain as the nose on her face?

By dinnertime every night, she was beat. All she wanted each and every time she dragged herself into the house was to go upstairs, shower and sleep, but Delia wouldn’t hear of it, leaving her no choice but to eat.

Two nights ago after showering, Callie had hauled herself back down the stairs but came to a stop when she heard Mica’s voice raised in anger.

“I’ve tried. I don’t know what else to do.” He sounded exasperated. Callie knew she should either leave or announce herself, but Delia’s words stopped her in her tracks.

“Try harder, Mica. She’s going to make herself sick working from dawn till dusk without taking care of herself in between.”

“I can’t very well make her stay home, or eat for that matter.”

“Sure you can, just as you made her marry you. Just the same as you head over to the Triple J almost every night and bring her home. Don’t give her the choice.”

Callie wanted to scream. All this time she’d thought Delia to be on her side. She was just about to barge into the room when Delia’s voice softened. “I know you love her u we tsi . If you cannot tell her, then you must continue to show her. Soon, her heart will realize the truth.”

Callie waited with bated breath, for what, she wasn’t sure. Did she want him to deny his love, or did she want to hear him declare to the world what he felt for her? Unsure of what to do or how she felt, Callie turned and walked away. Back the way she’d come, back to her room where she would have a few minutes to think.

She was having trouble controlling her welling emotions. Her heart longed to connect with Mica’s, but she was afraid. So damned scared she felt sick with it.

She knew he was there before he spoke a word. It was uncanny how in tune her body was to his. Every sense went on high alert when he was around.

The tiny hairs on the back of her neck stood at attention. When he stepped into the room his scent enveloped her making her skin tingle in anticipation. After wiping her sweaty palms down the front of her jeans, she turned to him.

He stood tall and proud. His big body completely filled the doorway, not leaving her the escape had that been her plan. His presence made the room seem smaller. Her breath quickened as if the air surrounding her was too thin to breathe.

“Dinner’s ready, Callie.” His eyes assessed her. She quickly looked away feeling guilty for eavesdropping even as she felt angry.

“I’ll be right down, Mica. I’m not quite done yet.”

“Done what, listening in on private conversations?”

She could feel the color drain from her face but was afraid to look up and into the misty depth of his stormy eyes.

His voice didn’t sound angry, but she imagined he was. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to, but I was on my way down when I heard you shouting.” She shuddered at the thought of an angry Mica Blackfeather.

“Don’t do that!” His voice was quiet, but it was far from calm. Looking up, Callie tried to swallow back her nervousness. It was time to stand up for herself. No longer would she allow him to hold the Triple J over her head.

Lifting her chin, she asked, “Don’t do what?”

“Don’t act as if I were your worst nightmare. I won’t hurt you, Callie. Ever.”

There was so much conviction behind those simple words she couldn’t help but believe him. The only problem was that he’d already hurt her and was still doing it.

“I don’t know how you can look me in the eye and say that, Mica. You forced me into marriage as a means of revenge. How can I possibly believe you when you say that you won’t hurt me?”

She saw the quick flash of hurt cross his features and felt guilty for saying the words although they were partially true. He had coerced into a marriage having nothing to do with love. At least the was the way it had started out. Now her emotions were taking over and she couldn’t seem to keep her bearings where Mica was concerned. He said nothing in return. Not a single word to defend himself.

“Alright, Mica,” she said, placating him as a means of avoiding a confrontation. She would stand up for herself, but she would do it her own way and in her own time.

When he narrowed his eyes at her, she nudged him out the door. “Isn’t your mother waiting dinner on us?”

“We’re not done, Callie. Not by a long shot, so you might as well get that smug look off your face. You’ve been avoiding me for days. God only knows I’ve tried to figure out why, but I won’t do it anymore.”

Aw, crap! Callie thought to herself. He looked downright determined, and that was not a good thing. The damned man had a stubborn streak a mile wide.

*

The exasperating woman was as stubborn as a mule. From the saucy curve of her mouth to the tilt of her chin you’d think she was ten feet tall and bullet proof. But damn, it sure was good to see that spark back in her eyes, even if it was aimed at him.

Now, to get her to agree to a short trip into town. He wanted to take her shopping for some new clothes. The problem was how to go about it without offending her. Ha! He wasn’t sure such a thing was possible.

Once they’d descended the stairs, he pulled her into his arms. Clasping her body tight against his own, he devoured her lips in a promising kiss.

She was sweet and pliant even as she struggled slightly for her freedom. Her luscious little body knew exactly what it wanted, and he had no trouble pleasing it.

The feel of her body as it molded itself against his made his cock twitch to life. Its length made his pants uncomfortably tight. With a groan, he released her lips and set her slightly away from him.

He wanted to shake her, to insist she admit her feelings for him. How could she not acknowledge them? They were two pieces of a whole. They not only complemented each other, but they were destined to be together for eternity. He felt it in every molecule of his being, in every touch, no matter how small.

He all but carried her into the kitchen. If he didn’t get her in the company of at least his mother, he would have taken her right there in the foyer. How romantic, he chided himself.

The kitchen table was set for three with Mica at the head as usual. His mother sat on his left and Callie on his right. Praying that his mother would follow along, Mica started what he hoped was the conversation that would get Callie into town for some new clothes without too much fuss.

“So, when did you want to have that barbeque?” he asked his mother. Then before she had time to answer, he continued. “It’ll have to wait at least until the weekend because Callie and I will have to go into town for some new duds.”

He watched as his mother’s brows rose with comprehension. “Yes, this weekend sounds just fine. Is that okay with you, Callie?”

“Barbeque?” she asked, as if she’d never heard the word before.

“Yes. Mica thought it would be a good way to introduce you as his wife,” Delia said.

Mica exchanged looks with his mother and then swung his gaze back to Callie’s now pale face. Her once rosy cheeks were now the color of the white tablecloth. Possibly even a shade paler. Pulling her hand into his own, he couldn’t miss the slight tremble he felt there.

“What now, Callie?” He tried to keep his voice even, but he was running low on patience.

A look of determination crossed her face just before she slid her hand from beneath his, and clasped it tightly in her lap. “Who would you invite?” she asked.

“Well, pretty much everyone. I mean, you mention it to a few but everyone shows up. You know how it works out here, Callie.”

“I don’t think this is a good idea.”

Damn, he was trying to be the good guy, and the fool woman was being difficult.

“It doesn’t matter, Callie. We’ll go into town tomorrow for supplies and some new clothes. That’ll give us the chance to pass the word around.”

He wasn’t going to leave her a choice in the matter. She was wearing clothes better suited as rags, and hadn’t seen a soul except for the people she worked with since he’d married her.

Trying to ignore the flush of her face, his dread warred with anger. He wasn’t sure why so he ate his dinner then excused himself from the table. He needed some time to think. It probably wouldn’t make a difference though, because he’d never figure the stubborn woman out.

As he headed toward the front door and the solitude of the porch, he heard soft voices along with the occasional clatter of the dishes as they were washed.

“I’m sorry I ruined your dinner,” Callie said, her voice morose.

“No need to apologize, Callie. But I must admit that I’m quite confused as to why you wouldn’t want someone besides me to visit with.”

“It’s not that, Delia,” she started. Mica knew it was wrong to listen in on their conversation, especially since he’d just chastised Callie for doing the same thing, but he couldn’t help himself.

“I’ve been alone for a long time. Except for Max, I haven’t really had any friends for more years than I can remember. I was embarrassed to bring them home.” The last was said in a voice so low that Mica moved closer to the door so he’d be able to hear.

“Callie, it wasn’t your fault, you know that don’t you? What your mother made of herself after your father’s death had nothing to do with you.”

“But don’t you see, Delia. A lot of people don’t understand. They don’t know how I covered for her. Not to save her from others knowing, but to save others from her.”

“I can feel your pain, Callie. It blooms bright in your chest, but your mother is gone now. Why don’t you explain it to those you think you’ve hurt?

“I can’t,” was the sobbed reply. It tore at his heart to hear the hurt in her voice. The tremble of the words as they were forced out proved this was something she never talked about.

“Then tell me, Callie. Maybe once you’ve talked about it, your burdens will lessen.”

“Thank you, Delia, but there’s no use in reliving it all. Besides, it’s only part of the problem.”

Her voice was a bit stronger now. He could mentally picture how her shoulders had squared, her stubborn chin lifted. Her hands would give her away though. They were probably balled into little white knuckled fists. Her next words were like a punch to the stomach, knocking the breath from his lungs.

“They were there. They’ll all know.”

“Know what, Callie?” His mother sounded completely bewildered which didn’t happen often. Damn! He wished he could see her face, wished it was him that she was telling her fears to.

“They not only know that Mica owns my ranch, but they were there when we married in front of that skunk of a judge, so they know he owns me as well. People shouldn’t be owned, Delia. It’s not right.” Her voice was tortured and sounded far away as his brain tried to sort through her words.

“Then they also know you were given no choice. You’ve nothing to be embarrassed about. Nothing at all.” His mother was getting angry, he could tell by the tone of her voice.

“We all have choices, Delia, and I made mine. I chose to marry a man who hates me to save a piece of land I’ll never own, and a home I miserably spent living in. And, I did it in tattered clothes stained in blood in front of half the town.” Her laugh was mocking, mirthless. He felt physically ill. Hearing it from her point of view gave him a whole new outlook. “I don’t wear his ring, or carry his love in here,” she said. He could imagine her hand resting over her heart. “I work his land and warm his bed, Delia, nothing more. A ranch hand and a whore could accomplish the same thing. Makes me wonder which I am?”

Her parting words made him want to roar, but before he had the chance to do anything the kitchen door swung open and out ran Callie.

She halted in her tracks when she saw him, then wiped the tears streaming from her desolate green eyes and continued for the front door.

He was so shocked he just stood there. He couldn’t seem to move a muscle. It took a nudge from his mother to get him moving, but it was already too late. She’d already saddled up Little Girl and ridden off.

For a minute or two he pondered the idea of going after her, but quickly decided against it. He’d give her some time to think and then he’d set her straight.

Striding to the office, he made a few phone calls, stepping up some of the surprises he had in store for her. First though, he’d have to make her believe he genuinely cared for her. More than that, he’d have to tell her he loved her. Whatever happened in the past would remain there. It was time she knew the magnitude of his true feelings.

CHAPTER EIGHT

It was time to let it all go, to admit that she’d been defeated and start over. With tears streaming down her face, she galloped Little Girl across the green grass of the pasture.

When she returned, she would stand tall, be proud. No longer would she let the Triple J, or Mica, rule the outcome of her life. She wasn’t yet ready to admit that she had feelings for the man. It would take more time to work out that part of the equation, but eventually she would.

The release of pent-up emotions was cleansing, invigorating. Why had she let herself get pulled so far down? It didn’t matter, she answered sternly. You are back up now and you’ll remain that way.

If Mica wants a barbeque then by God, he’ll get a damned barbeque, and you’ll show them whose boss. It was a silly pep talk, but it seemed to help. Staring toward the setting sun, Callie spoke softly to her father.

“I made a promise I knew I couldn’t keep, Daddy and I’m sorry for it, but I can’t keep going like this. If you were here it would be different, but you’re not, so I have to do what feels right.”

Just saying the words felt good. To no longer take the blame, or blame herself made her feel instantly lighter. She spent the next several hours sitting in the low grass on the edge of the watering hole. When she started back to Blackfeather Lodge she felt like a whole new person. Lighter, almost happy and for the first time in years, she didn’t fear the future.

She’d made the decision to apologize, and explain to Mica why she’d hurt him all those years ago. He could believe her or not. Either way it wouldn’t be the end of the world. It might hurt to lose him, but the way he was holding her hostage would hurt more in the long run so she’d just deal with whatever was to come.

“I know you understand, Daddy. I just wish there was a way you could tell me.” The words had barely left her mouth when she heard the thunder of a horse’s hooves.

Squinting into the darkness, she instantly recognized the form moving toward her.

“Very funny, Daddy,” she grumbled. “You know darned well that’s not what I meant.” It felt good to joke, even if it was with herself. Her mood was good, but from the look of Mica’s face, he wasn’t feeling the same way.

Even before his horse stopped beside hers, he’d started hollering at her. “Dammit Callie Blackfeather! I’ve been worried sick about you. You can’t just ride off into the sunset. This isn’t some damned western movie, ya know.”

He sounded thoroughly disgruntled, but hearing him use her married name brought a smile to her lips, and she couldn’t help the giggle that bubbled up inside her. “What’s so all fired funny?” he roared as he dismounted and headed toward her.

“Nothing, Mica. I’m sorry if I worried you, but I had a lot on my mind to work out. I feel better now than I have in weeks and I won’t let you ruin it so you might as well stop acting like an ass.” She was still sitting high on Little Girl but it didn’t last for long.

As soon as he reached her side, he jerked her down in one swift motion.

“Worried? Damn you, I was more than worried, I was frantic.”

She looked into his eyes and saw the truth in his words, but he seemed to still be on the verge of losing his temper so she didn’t comment. Instead she decided to take the initiative and help calm him down.

Moving her hands slowly across the wide expanse of his muscular chest, she purred.

“I really am sorry, Mica. I didn’t mean to worry you.”

It was almost comical the way his brows furrowed. His dark hair had worked its way loose of the leather thong he wore and was hanging in a curtain around his collar. When he looked down at her from his towering height, it rushed forward, brushing her softly along the cheek.

It was soft like silk. With one hand she gently, sensually caressed the side of his face in an upward motion until her fingers were buried deeply into his thick black hair.

“What are you up to now, Callie?” he asked her. He was struggling to remain calm, detached but she wouldn’t hear of it. Just this once she was going to take what she wanted. To be in control of the situation. She’d have him melting in her hands, or her mouth, as the case may be, before the hour was up.

“I’m not up to anything, Mica. What would make you think that?”

Her hands now traveled on a downward course. Back across his chest, along his shoulders and down his arms until they rested on his hips. Once there she stepped closer until her body was plastered tightly against his.

He groaned as she rubbed herself against him. The steely length of his erection prodded at her belly. His actions made it hard for her to remain at a slow pace while she sexually tortured her husband as he stood before her.

“I don’t know, Callie. Maybe because you ran out of the house as if the devil were hot on your heels, then stayed away until well after dark. Or could it be that not even five minutes ago you were calling me an ass, and now you’re all sassy smiles and wanton wiggles. You think that could be it?”

He was dead serious. Here he stood before her, straight as an arrow with an erection hard enough to make any woman’s mouth water, and he was pissed. “I don’t want to talk about it right now, Mica. Soon though, I promise we’ll get it all worked out.”

With those words, she dropped to her knees. Her hands were still braced on his hips, but not for long.

The hard length of his denim-clad erection was right in front of her face. Her mouth watered at the thought of taking him in such a way. The folds of her sex were slick and ready, but it would have to wait, to be denied until she tasted every inch of his cock.

Breathing deeply, she trailed her hands over his engorged member. He was hard yet soft, a contradiction that aroused her beyond belief. His warmth kept her moving on an erotic journey for his fly. With trembling fingers she released the silver buckle of his belt then popped open the button at his waist.

She then lowered his zipper allowing it to slowly rasp along his cock which was now as hard as a fence post, standing at attention and ready to go.

“Are you sure, Callie?” he asked as his shaft sprang free of the confines of his jeans.

“Be sure, baby. Real sure,” he added as she palmed his length, barely able to circle it at the base.

“Um, hmm,” she mumbled as she licked her lips.

*

Mica couldn’t hold back a groan of carnal delight as Callie slowly licked her lips, staring up into his face as she did so. One of her tiny hands was working the base of his shaft in smooth, short strokes while the other tiny hand cradled his balls, fondling them gently as if she were afraid she’d hurt him.

He thought her cheeks might be flushed but it was hard to tell with only the moonlight to go by. The sparse light glistened off a single drop of fluid as it seeped from the head of his cock. She rubbed her thumb over it, his hips bucked involuntarily. When she lifted the thumb to her mouth and sucked, he almost came.

He wanted desperately to strip her and take her in an animalistic frenzy, her body bent over the nearest low object. And he just might do that before heading back to the house, but right now he sensed that she needed to be in charge.

“Mmm,” she hummed in approval after sucking his essence from her thumb before returning her hand to his throbbing cock.

If she kept it up, he was going to go fucking crazy, he inwardly groaned. He took a deep, hopefully calming breath, and waited to see what her next move would be.

Leaning forward she lapped him from base to tip with her moist pink tongue before enclosing his cock head in the warm recess of her mouth.

“Oh shit, Callie darlin’.”

She leaned back on her haunches and looked at his groin for a brief moment, studying him. The skin of his prick glistened with her saliva as did her lips. “Did I do something wrong?” she asked, her voice concerned.

“The only thing you could possibly do wrong right now would be to stop,” he said, when what he really wanted to do was to hold her head still and fuck her hot little mouth.

Shrugging her shoulders, she spared him a quick glance before she lowered her head.

It was only a matter of minutes but it felt like ages before she came up for air.

He locked his knees in an effort to remain on his feet. The pleasure was so intense he was sure he’d end up flat on his face if he hadn’t. The woman was a fast learner. At first, she’d seemed sort of intimidated, yet excited. Now she was moving at full throttle, using her tongue to taste and tease while her hand worked lower, rocketing him toward completion.

The telltale tingle was making its way up his spine. He could feel his shaft swell further, his balls tightening in anticipation of his release.

“I’m going to come, Callie.”

Both of her hands snaked around his buttocks, her fingers sinking deeply into the flesh she was holding. He could no longer keep his hands to himself. He had to touch her, to feel the warmth of her skin as she accepted all he was.

Pulling her hair from her face, he held it back so he could see her every move. The increase in his arousal was mind-blowing as he watched the length of his cock disappear into her mouth only to reappear slick and shiny seconds later.

Holding her head still, he said. “If you want to back out, now would be the time because in a matter of seconds it’ll be too late.”

Her greedy mouth didn’t release him. Instead, she shook her head slightly from side to side, never losing her hold on him. The motion of her head brought along with it a whole new set of sensations.

Slurping noises filled the quiet night as she continued to work him. The slight breeze did nothing to cool his ardor. If anything, it brought along with it the scent of her arousal.

He could feel his release coming.

Callie murmured around his length. The vibrations set off an explosion from deep within. One he could no longer hold back as he filled her mouth with his seed.

As the first taste of him passed her lips, she looked up in surprise. Her wide eyes wouldn’t allow him to look away. They held him in a trance-like state.

Her lips were puffy and pink as they stretched around his softening cock. A single drop of white cream gathered at the corner of her mouth. With a last lick up his length, she released him. Licking her lips, she rose to her feet on unsteady legs.

Her body was trembling, but he had no idea whether it was from the chill in the air or her own need. After arranging his clothes, he gathered her into his arms and held tight.

“Tomorrow we’ll talk, Callie, but right now I need to take you home and love you. Is that okay, baby?”

He prayed she would say yes. It wasn’t such an easy thing to do, to ask instead of demand or take. The astonished look on her face told him she’d noticed it too.

“Yes, Mica. Take me home and love me, please.” Her voice was husky as she clung to him.

Grabbing Little Girl’s reigns, he mounted Midnight and pulled Callie up in front of him. The ride back to Blackfeather Lodge was wonderful and hellish all at the same time.

With Callie sitting so close in front of him, he’d gotten hard again in a matter of minutes, but with his hands full of Little Girl’s reigns and his own mount, he’d not been able to do anything about it.

Of course Callie didn’t have that problem so she took complete advantage of the situation by stroking him until he was almost ready to burst, then she’d stop and let him recover. She did it over and over until he thought he would have to stop along the way.

After what seemed like ages, they’d made it home. Once the horses were tended to, he was going to take Callie up to their room and teach her a lesson she’d never forget. He was looking forward to it.

They worked in unison to get Little Girl and Midnight settled for the night. When they were finished they walked side by side from the barn to the house. Upon entering the back door, Mica noticed the light in the kitchen was on. His mother sat at the kitchen table sipping a cup of hot tea.

“I’m glad to see you are alright,” she said to Callie.

Mica watched as his mother’s arms engulfed Callie’s petite body. She then kissed her temple and walked from the room without saying another word. It was strange to see his mother shower her love upon another, and for a brief second jealousy assailed him.

Then he turned toward Callie and the jealousy vanished. Her hand was trembling as it touched the spot on her temple where his mother had just kissed her. Her throat worked furiously to swallow back the tears threatening to spill from her eyes.

In a shaky voice barely above a whisper, she asked. “How is it that your mother can love me when my own couldn’t?”

He had no answer. He couldn’t imagine a mother not loving her own child. What was even worse was trying to imagine the hurt such rejection would bring. Gathering her close, he stroked her back.

“I wish I knew, Callie.” His voice was solemn and although he was itching to remove her clothes piece by piece, he didn’t want to push. He’d done enough pushing.

From now on it would be her choice whether she shared his bed or not. And as soon as they talked, it would be her choice whether she wanted to share his life.

Every ounce of hate and anger was gone, drained from his heart, as if it never existed. In its place was a love so consuming he could hardly contain it, but words wouldn’t be enough. Not this time. This time actions would speak much louder, and although he feared the results, he was willing to let her go. If he didn’t, she would never truly belong to him. It was a cliché proven time and again. He just prayed to the Great Spirit above that this time he would come out the victor.

“Mica,” she said softly.

“Yea, baby?”

“Take me to our room and love me just like you said you would. Will you do that for me, Mica?” Her voice sounded unsure, as if she were afraid he’d turn her away.

“Anything darlin’, anything at all,” he said, as he lifted her into his arms. With her body cradled close to his, he strode through the house and up the stairs until he reached the haven of their bedroom.

* * * *

Every nerve throughout his body was jolted alive by the trembling touch of her hands as he carried her across the threshold and into the room. He wished with all of his newly mended heart that he could take her pain away. There seemed to be so much of it within her, that it allowed no room for anything else. Just as his need for revenge had done to him.

It was possible that she could learn to trust him, to love him. If there were a way, he would find it. Until then, he would keep her so busy loving that she wouldn’t have time to think of the things that could hurt her. And when she was ready to talk, he would listen with his heart and soul to every word that passed her lips.

First thing in the morning, he would confess his love. And then they were going to town for new clothes. The stubborn woman didn’t know it, but the whole barbeque thing was for her.

He pretended to throw her on the bed, dropping her in the center instead. She shrieked in his ear, clawing at his shirt which caused him to chuckle. She laughed as well.

The sound filled the room, causing him to pause.

“What is it, Mica?” she asked, breathless.

“U wo du hi,” he said. When she continued to stare at him, he translated. “Beautiful.

Your laughter is beautiful, Callie mine.”

Her cheeks turned rosy on him. He watched with hunger in his eyes as she rose to her knees on the bed then proceeded to pull her shirt up over her head. Her bra followed suit landing on the floor beside the bed.

When she was bare from the waist up, Callie reached for him. Snap by snap she removed his shirt. When she’d unfastened all she could, she tugged it from the waist of his jeans then finished the job.

“U wo du hi,” she said, haltingly trying to repeat the word he’d just used to describe her laughter. He couldn’t help but smile, she was truly amazing.

They continued with their exploration of each other as well as their race to remove clothing until each stood beside the bed nude. Caressing arms and tantalizing fingers made erotic forays over tingling skin until Mica thought he would explode.

When Callie palmed the length of him, giving a gentle squeeze in the process, Mica stopped her with a hand to her wrist.

“My turn, darlin’,” he said as he helped her onto the bed. As he laid her on her back, spreading her thighs wide, he winked. “Paybacks are a bitch.”

She giggled then gasped as he feathered his warm breath across the slick expanse of her treasures. Holding her hips still, he separated her folds allowing him easy access to the tiny bundle of nerves nestled within the curls of her pubic hair.

She writhed beneath him. “Mica, please,” she whispered raggedly.

“Please what, baby?”

“Please,” was all that came out in return so he did what she hadn’t voiced but what he knew she wanted. Lowering his head, he feasted on her delights. Her moans of pleasure made him swell. His now throbbing cock was begging for attention, but he wouldn’t let it deter him from his goal of tasting her release.

Continuing on, he licked and sucked until she was shivering from the impact of his tongue on her heated flesh. The muscles of her thighs quivered as every nerve ending was brought zinging to life. He continued to hold her still for his tongue’s perusal.

Her taste was addictive, the feel of her fleshy folds soft against his lips. When she was close, begging for her release, he latched onto the swollen nub of her clit and sucked vigorously until her body convulsed with the intensity of her orgasm.

When she cried his name and tugged his hair, he released her from his grasp then kissed his way up her abdomen, over each peaked breast until he was face to face with her.

Staring into her startlingly vibrant, emerald green eyes as he slowly delved into her warm depth was a life-altering experience.

Never again did he want to be without her, but he knew deep within his heart that his mother had been right. If he didn’t give her the choice, she would never truly belong to him.

He would release her with the means to support herself. With her ranch and an apology. Then he would pray, as he’d never prayed before, that she would return of her own free will. No more could they live with the past shrouding them like a dark cloud of gloom. It was time to look into the future, one that would hopefully be filled with happiness and laughter. And possibly even the sound of tiny moccasined feet as they pitter-pattered through the house.

Purging revenge from one’s heart left a lot of room for other stuff, better stuff. As his body joined with Callie’s, he knew that the hardest part of the journey was just ahead.

For now though, for tonight, he wouldn’t hold back, nor allow Callie to hold back.

Taking all she had to give, he rode her like a tempest, wild, untamed in its mercy, only taking until there was no more to be had. Then he loved her tenderly, giving of all he was, and when they were too exhausted to move, they drifted off to sleep, a tangle of sheets and long limbs and healing hearts.

CHAPTER NINE

The smell of coffee woke Callie bright and early the next morning. The space in the bed beside her was cold and empty, as if she’d slept alone. The slight protest of her intimate muscles told another story. Memories of their loving assailed her senses and sent her scampering from the bed.

She needed to find him. It was imperative that she explain everything to him. The need to tell him the truth of what had happened all those years ago was overwhelming.

During her little countryside jaunt yesterday evening, one very important thing had happened. Somehow fear had turned into arousal and then into full-blown lust. Although she’d tried to deny her feelings, to push them aside in order to better deal with everything else that was going on, she hadn’t been able to.

The walls she’d struggled to keep strong had begun to crumble along with her body’s resistance. After loving and being loved by Mica throughout the night, Callie was sure that not only did she whole-heartedly love him now, but she’d never stopped loving him.

After pulling on a pair of jeans and a button-up shirt, Callie pulled a brush through her hair. Not wanting to waste any more time, she left it down instead of twisting it into its usual braid.

She flew down the stairs making her way into the kitchen. Delia sat at the table with her usual cup of hot tea in front of her. A frown marred her normally serene face. Callie felt ill at ease. A sense of foreboding stole over her body.

“Has Mica already eaten?” she asked Delia.

“Not yet, Callie. He has been in the stables since early this morning.”

She seemed troubled. Callie nodded her thanks then made her way out the back door.

The sun shone bright from the clear blue sky. It was a beautiful day for reconciliation.

Too bad she had the feeling something bad was about to happen. The huge sliding door was ajar making it easy for her to enter. The interior was dark so Callie took a moment to allow her eyes time to adjust. The smell of hay was pungent and familiar. It made her miss the Triple J and Max even more.

Following the noise coming from the far side of the long walk, Callie moved forward until she stood before the door to Midnight’s stall. The sound of Mica’s voice as he softly crooned to the huge beast made tiny bumps skitter across her skin. It was calming as were his hands as he brushed the horse in long strokes.

He must have heard her because he stilled just before he turned. Slowly, methodically, he stored the equipment he’d been using. His face was unreadable except for the look of sorrow in his eyes, as they looked first toward her and then the floor.

“Mornin’,”

His voice was devoid of emotion. Cool and composed, the complete opposite of his gray eyes.

“Mornin’,” she answered. “I woke up and you were gone.” Her cheeks heated. She was being awfully presumptuous by assuming he would have stayed the whole night with her.

“I had things to do.” His answer was curt. Callie wracked her brain trying to figure out what she’d done to elicit his guarded behavior, but couldn’t think of a thing.

“I know,” she whispered. “I understand that you’re busy, but I thought we were going to talk.”

She continued to watch him as he made his way around Midnight’s stall. Once he’d finished cleaning, he led Midnight out into the corral and released him, allowing the magnificent animal time to exercise.

Callie followed along silently, waiting for Mica to acknowledge that she’d spoken.

With one hand out, he beckoned her to him. She went eagerly to his side, feeling a sense of relief when the fingers of his hand entwined with hers. He then walked with her out of the stables and on to the front porch where they sat together on the bench swing.

She had just settled herself when he spoke. “I’ve got a lot I want to say, Callie. A lot I need to apologize for.”

“No!” she cut him off. “If anyone deserves an apology it is you, Mica. You and your mother both.”

When he made to interrupt, she raised her finger to his mouth, gently stroking his lips. “Please let me finish. I need to do this. It’s been too long already.”

She moved from the bench, the need to pace overtaking her body. “Maxine never wanted me and resented me because my father did want me. She told me often how she wished I’d never been born, how I’d ruined her life,” she said, wrapping her arms tightly around her middle. “It’s no excuse for her actions or my own, but I believe she really loved my father and when he died, a part of her died with him. Whatever was left of her heart was gone, Mica, and she didn’t want to live anymore.”

It took several deep breaths before she felt she could continue. Unshed tears made her eyes burn and her chest ache. “The year after Daddy died was horrible. Maxine started drinking every day and in her drunkenness, her hate for me grew. I tried to stay out of her way, but it wasn’t always possible.” Her pacing continued.

“One day I was fixing us something to eat. I was clumsy and knocked over the vase of flowers she always kept on the table. It shattered when it hit the floor. I knew instantly what she would do to me. You see, it was the last gift my father had given her before his death.”

She couldn’t help the shudder that coursed through her body, but moved from his reach when he made to comfort her. “No, I need to finish. Just let me finish. You have to know, Mica. I need to know that you understand. That you can forgive me.”

This time he didn’t remain silent. His eyes were suspiciously bright, his lips pressed into a flat line, hands balled into fists at his side.

“There is nothing to ask forgiveness for, Callie.” His words were cut off once again, this time by her raised voice.

“Just listen! Please, Mica.”

“Okay, Callie. Okay,” he said, although she could tell what an effort it was to remain where he was sitting.

“She’d hit me before. I always made excuses for it. I took the blame because I loved her. She was my mother, Mica. My mother.” The sobs started and wouldn’t stop. Wiping her eyes in a show of defiance, she continued.

“That day it was different. The shattered vase was on the floor and a look of pure hatred twisted her face like a mask. Before I could put a hand up or say a word, she hit me.”

The memories were clear, as was the pain as it had exploded in her head that day.

She idly rubbed a finger over the small white scar at the edge of her brow.

“Without thinking, I hit her back. When Max came in I was hysterical. A trail of blood had made its way into my eye and I couldn’t see well, but her bloody nose was hard to miss. He cleaned me up, and then even as she cursed him, he helped Maxine. I couldn’t do it. Everything I’d ever felt for her died that day.”

She turned to him then, to really look at him. To see him for the grown man he was today, and remember the young man he’d been then. “It was several days later when she came to me. She told me that she’d seen us in the barn, the names she called me were horrible and embarrassing, but when she threatened to have you arrested for statutory rape I thought I would die. She was drunk again, but I knew she meant every word she said. I couldn’t let her do it, Mica. I just couldn’t.”

Her legs would no longer hold her, so she let her shaking body slide down against a pillar until she was sitting on the wood-plank floor of the porch. It was finally out, everything.

*

He pushed his feet under him, forcing himself to stand, and then made his way across the porch to her. He remembered the angry words he’d spat at her all those years ago and felt nothing but shame.

She’d been dealt a hard hand and he’d done nothing to help her. And then, all these years later, he once again turned on her, exacting revenge for something she’d had no control over.

His mother was right. Nothing he did now would make it better. He’d planned on telling her of his love. Asking for forgiveness and proposing properly, but now he had no choice but to let her go. How would she ever learn to love him after what he’d done?

“Shh,” he whispered softly in her ear. His hands roamed around her back taking in every sensation, every curve and dip. She’d left her hair down. It was the first time he remembered her voluntarily doing so. Its gold locks flowed freely down her back, brushing the wood beneath her.

Sifting his fingers through the lustrous strands, he breathed deeply, inhaling her scent. Locking the essence of her away in his memory so he could take it out when the days became too long.

He would remember her scent, peaches and sunshine. The way she moved beneath him in bed. Her moans of pleasure and cries of completion would haunt his nightly dreams, but he had no choice. To let her go was the only way he could think of to show her how much he cared, how strong his love for her was.

His heart was demanding he tell her, but his conscience wouldn’t allow it. If he were to tell her of his love would she stay? And if she did stay, would she ever be able to forgive? Over the past few weeks, he’d seen her eyes show strong emotion, but she’d never voiced what it was, and it wouldn’t be fair to ask anything of her just now.

“You should have told me, Callie. I would have thought of something, baby.” He couldn’t help but hold her tighter.

“Don’t you see, Mica? That is why I couldn’t tell you. I knew your honor was strong, that you wouldn’t leave me, and I couldn’t take that chance. Your freedom was much more important than me.”

“My honor is nothing!” he insisted. Rising to his feet, he stalked to the far corner of the porch. “A man with honor does not call those he loves by ugly names. A man of honor doesn’t take without asking, and he sure the hell doesn’t force marriage on a woman when it’s the last thing she wants.”

He was completely disgusted with himself and he didn’t give a damn who knew it. It was time to let her go.

“I was thinking last night, Callie. I’ve been regretting my decision for weeks now.

I’ve set up an account for you in town to get you started. I’ve spoken with the bank and signed all the necessary papers. The Triple J is all yours.”

“What?” she gasped. “What do you mean? What are you saying, Mica?”

He continued on as if he hadn’t heard her. “I’ll see a lawyer. We can’t get an annulment, but I’ll agree to a divorce. Don’t worry about anything, Callie. I’ll make it all right for you somehow.”

Mica was so busy talking that he didn’t notice that all the color had drained from Callie’s face. “You want me to leave?” Her voice was so soft he barely heard her.

“I want you to be happy. You deserve at least that much and I plan to see you get it.”

He could tell she had more to say, but he couldn’t stand to stay and watch her go. It would break his heart to see her leave, so he did the only thing he could think of. He kissed her lips sensually, lingering as if to remember her taste and then he said goodbye.

“I called Max this morning. He got here just before you came out. I’ll have your belongings sent to the Triple J. Be happy, Callie, and call me if you need anything darlin’, anything at all.”

It hurt to walk away from her, but if he didn’t do it now, he’d never be able to.

Letting her go was much harder the second time around. He didn’t have his anger to fall back on, to bury the real emotions. This time the hurt was raw. His heart felt like it had been ripped from his chest and stomped on.

As her truck disappeared out of sight, he yelled in his native tongue, lashing out with the agony of his loss, “Gv ge yu hi, I love you!”

It was dark by the time Mica found his way back to the house. His mother stood in the doorway and watched as he wearily made his way up the porch steps.

“You were right to let her go, Mica. I know you love her, u we tsi, but now that you know the truth, it would not be honorable to hold her.”

There was that word again. It left a bad taste in his mouth at the thought of even saying it, but he had to admit to his mother the truth of the man he’d become.

“I have no honor left, e tsi. Even as I let her go I wanted to force her to stay. Where is the honor in that?”

“Don’t be so hard on yourself, Mica. You realized your mistakes and have made efforts to change them, just as Callie did by explaining to you what caused her to treat you as she did. You forgave her. Do you not think she has the same capacity within her heart to forgive you?”

He could say nothing. The only thing he wanted right now was to be alone, to forget for at least a little while. He silently wondered if he should leave. The land didn’t hold the same magic as he remembered. It seemed the magic hadn’t been within the land at all.

It had been within the love of a single woman. Without that love, his land was no different than any other.

“Will you cancel the barbeque, e tsi? We have no need for a get-together now.”

“Give her some time, Mica. Be patient, and when she comes, listen closely to what she says. I believe my u we tsi a g e ya, daughter, may surprise you.”

Mica watched as his mother stepped back into the kitchen. After hanging his hat on a hook by the door, he made his way up to the master bedroom.

Her scent still lingered in the air, teasing him with sensual memories of their lovemaking.

His mind started whirling with ideas. Thoughts of courting Callie crowded themselves in his brain, allowing no room for anything else. As he undressed, he thought of ways to win her back.

Just before drifting off into what was sure to be a restless night of sleep, he remembered the stories of old, of the savageness and beauty of the land, a beauty that matched his at si ye hi, wife. Of his ancestors and their fight for survival. If it was during the time of his ancestors, he would kidnap her and whisk her off to a dark and isolated cave deep in the wilderness. A place where they would never be found and could spend the rest of their days making wild, passionate love.

CHAPTER TEN

Callie’s throat clogged with tears she refused to release. She didn’t know whether to be angry or upset, and felt as if both emotions were ripping her apart.

“Hang in there, girl,” Max said from beside her as he drove her battered truck down the bumpy road. His hand was comforting as it patted her leg. I must be in shock, she thought to herself. That would explain the fact that she wanted to wring Mica’s neck.

How dare he send her away when she’d just figured out how much she loved him.

“The damned fool,” she grumbled, sniffling a bit with the effort to hold back the tears.

“I’d have to agree on that one, girl. So whatcha gonna do ‘bout it?”

“Do?” she asked eyeing him suspiciously. “There’s nothing to do, Max. He doesn’t want me. Why else would he send me away?”

The old codger, who’d helped raise her, gave a snort of disgust. “You’re just as big a fool as that damned idiot,” he stated outright.

She wasn’t in the mood to argue so she snapped her mouth closed. She stared out the window in hopes of finding something to take her mind off of Mica. Thoughts of the Triple J seemed to help. It was going to be good to be home once again.

It may have only been weeks since she’d left, but it felt like years. Mica had given her hell enough times about working herself to death that she’d stopped helping Max altogether. Mica said he’d send someone over to do her share. She felt a bit guilty for leaving Max hanging that way, but since she was being honest with herself, she had to admit that she’d enjoyed riding Little Girl and visiting with Delia.

There was no hardship. Blackfeather Lodge was a wonderful place to live … and love, she thought sadly.

She’d turned to say as much to Max but the sight before her broke her composure.

The tears she’d fought the whole way home won the battle as they streamed down her cheeks.

“Max, how did you…?”

“Don’t you go blamin’ me, girl. I had nothin’ to do with it. That husband of yers sent a bunch of them fancy wood-workin’ folks over here. They made the loudest damned racket you’ve ever heard.”

He sounded peeved about the whole thing, but the twinkle in his eyes told her a different story.

“Stop the truck, Max,” she said, as she wretched her door open.

Looking up in wonder, Callie followed the carved arch with her eyes until she came to rest on a single plank of wood. It couldn’t be, she thought in awe.

It had been a while since she’d felt the need to touch the piece, to hold it close to her heart. With Mica there to hold her against the warm expanse of his body, she’d taken to him for comfort, instead of the sign. Setting things straight with her deceased father had also seemed to help.

The new arch was almost the same as the old one. She climbed back into the truck on shaky legs, then turned in her seat and watched out the back window as they passed through the gates. She kept her eyes glued to the arch until Max spoke.

“If that piece of wood caused you to bawl like a baby, you’d better grab that hanky out of my pocket before we get to the house, because them there faucets you call eyeballs might just open up. Let me know if you feel the need to swoon,” he cackled as he brought the truck to a stop.

Callie couldn’t help the laugh that escaped her lips a second before she caught sight of her house. When she did, the laugh was quickly replaced with a gasp. She saw stars before she realized she’d been holding her breath.

“Dammit girl! I was just joshin’ ya. You’d better not go down ‘cause I can’t carry you like I used to.”

“I don’t understand, Max. When was all this done?” Her eyes wandered across her land unable to stop for too long on any particular spot. It was beautiful, almost like she remembered it.

The house was white with country blue shutters. The porch had also been painted and was sporting a new set of wicker rocking chairs. The front fences were painted too, and gleamed white in the sunshine.

The barn was painted the deep red of brick—just as any barn should be—and trimmed in the same white as the fences. The front yard had been landscaped. Where there were once weeds, flowers now grew. Their blooms scented the air, their color bringing cheer to a place that had not seen happiness in too many years to count.

It was all very beautiful, but it didn’t change the fact that she felt alone.

“I can’t believe you’ve just upped and quit,” Max said as she made her way to the door. Her emotions and the events of the past few hours set her on edge.

“Well, what in the hell do you want me to do?” she argued.

“Watch that sassy mouth, girl. You ain’t too big to take over my knee. Besides, I thought you had more gumption than that.”

“He doesn’t want me, Max, and evidently, he hasn’t for a while from the looks of this place.”

Callie watched as Max shook his head. He took his hat off and rubbed his bald head with a wrinkled hand. “You ever stop to think that the boy might be ashamed of his actions? If you love him as much as I suspect you do then just give him a day or so to set things straight in his mind then go to him. Tell him how you feel, and pray, girl. Pray that he’s smart enough to see that the two of you belong together.”

His words stuck with her over the next two days. The more she thought about them, the more sense they made. On Friday, Callie went into town to do some shopping. A plan had been set in motion in her mind. Now it was time to follow through.

A little bird had called to let her know that there would still be a barbeque come Saturday afternoon at Blackfeather Lodge, and she planned to be there. This time though, things would be different.

Callie went shopping for new clothes for herself with Mica in mind. It was more fun than she could ever remember having. Her normal attire of blue jeans, western shirts and boots just wouldn’t work. Neither would her serviceable white cotton under things.

Come Saturday afternoon, Callie planned to look like a new woman. With help from the sales clerk, she picked out the perfect outfit. The new dress would conceal the skimpiest bra and panty set she could find, not to mention the lace-top thigh highs and heeled sandals.

From the boutique, she made her way across town to the beauty shop. If you’re going to do it, you might as well do it right, she thought with a wicked smile on her face.

* * * *

Mica almost hit a parked car when he spotted Callie in town. She was walking along the sidewalk as if she didn’t have a care in the world. Bags hung off her arms and she had a huge smile on her face. It made his heart ache to see her so happy without him, but that was what he’d wanted so he’d just have to learn to deal with it.

He must have picked the phone up a hundred times over the past couple of days.

He’d even dialed a couple of times, only to hang up when she answered the phone, her voice breathy, sexy.

He’d hoped she’d call, and at the same time, prayed she wouldn’t. He wasn’t sure he’d have the strength to send her away again if he had to. He’d pretty much come to the conclusion that if she came back to Blackfeather Lodge, no matter the reason, he’d never let her go.

Several ideas had taken root. One he’d even followed through with after the first night away from her. He felt silly even thinking it, but for some reason he couldn’t shake the feeling to do as his heart urged him.

He’d taken a large duffle bag and filled it with supplies, enough to last several days.

Using Little Girl to carry the duffle, he’d saddled Midnight and rode off to the grassy countryside in search of the place calling to him. When he found a place similar to what he had in mind, his heart raced with the possibilities.

A large copse of trees peppered a rock formation. Dead center of this formation was a cave-like entrance. It wasn’t the same as his dream, but it was an enclosure that would keep the elements out while they remained inside.

He unloaded the supplies then sat and watched, listened. The place was magnificent.

Wildlife was abundant, the sweet grass green beneath the blue sky. It was perfect. He hoped Callie felt the same way because he’d made his mind up. Come Saturday night if he hadn’t heard from his wife, he’d be collecting her.

Like his ancestors, he was ready to steal her away like a thief in the night. To hold her and keep her crazy with passion until her resolve weakened, and she could no longer deny her love for him. A love he was sure they shared.

“Soon a wi a tsi ye hi, dear wife, soon you will be back in my arms.” He said the words with conviction then prayed she loved him as much as he loved her.

Saturday morning came and went. His mother spent the day cleaning house and preparing food. He figured there would be enough to feed the whole county by the time she was done.

“Sit down, u we tsi. You are making me nervous,” she scolded, as he paced the kitchen floor.

“Sorry e tsi, but I can’t seem to help myself. What if she doesn’t come?” His brows furrowed at the thought. “If she doesn’t come I will have to go collect her, and then she’ll hate me all over again. I know it, but I can’t let it stop me. Without her in my life, I am nothing.”

“It will all work out, Mica. You will see. Now please, do your walking somewhere else.”

When the sound of a vehicle pulling up came through the open window of the kitchen, she shooed him out claiming he should greet the guests.

He was cordial but couldn’t seem to find a smile. He mingled through the growing crowd looking for the one face that would change his whole life.

It was getting late, the sun was making its way slowly down, and yet she was nowhere in sight. Stopping here and there to socialize with his guests didn’t do anything to dampen the panic gripping his heart. His impatience left his mood sour. In need of some solitude, he made his way to the corral just off the stables.

Midnight whinnied at his approach and moved to the fence so Mica could scratch the spot just behind his ears. “Soon, Midnight. If she doesn’t show soon, you and I will go and find her.”

Speaking the words was soothing to his flaming body. No matter how it was accomplished, he would soon have Callie back within the confines of his arms. He could already feel her warm little body pressed tightly against his.

His cock throbbed to life, his pants now fit uncomfortably tight. Her pussy would be warm and wet allowing him to enter her with ease. First he’d take her like a man possessed, exactly the way he felt. Then their loving would be slow and thorough. He’d leave no inch of her untried. Every inch of her flesh would be his to taste, to tantalize and just when he though he would burst, she’d beg for her release.

Her moaned please would send his heart racing and he’d fill her inch by glorious inch until he was completely seated within the tight clasp of her willing body.

His shaft was throbbing with need. He wanted so badly to see her face in the moonlight, as it had been the night she’d taken him in her mouth. The light of the moon would glisten off her pale locks turning their length a silvery blond.

He was brought out of his thoughts by the sound of a truck pulling up. It was her.

Max got out of the driver’s side, which was facing the corral. Squinting his eyes, Mica searched the darkness for any sign of her. Did she come or did Max come alone?

Allowing himself no time to think of the possibilities, he left the corral and Midnight with long, purposeful strides and headed toward the house.

CHAPTER ELEVEN

Callie scanned the yard and saw Mica before her truck came to a stop in front of the house. He was a hard man to miss. His size made him intimidating, but he always moved silently as if stalking his prey.

Mica was having a talk with Midnight. Her heart skipped a beat before it resumed its increasing pace at the sight of him. A fluttering in her belly made her nauseous, and she wasn’t at all sure that she’d made the right decision by coming to the barbeque.

“Let’s go, girl. You can’t back out now,” Max said as he opened the driver’s side door to her truck, letting himself out.

Trying not to stare in Mica’s direction, Callie let herself out of the truck. After taking a few deep breaths, she started to follow Max when once again something caught her attention. Every tiny hair on the back of her neck stood on end. She knew before looking that Mica had spotted her. The crunch of gravel under large booted feet told her he was moving at a fast pace.

Callie turned her head and watched as he made his way toward her. Every nerve ending in her body screamed for attention. From the arches of her feet to the roots of her hair, she wanted him.

Her nipples peaked instantly beneath the thin fabric covering her breasts. The lacy bra abraded the tender skin with each ragged breath she took. The closer and closer he got to her, the hotter and more wet she became.

She was sure the thong panties she had on were drenched as her liquid desire seeped from within her body. Her tiny internal muscles trembled in anticipation.

“Close your mouth, girl. Ya don’t want him to think you’ve been a waitin’ for him like some love sick pup, do ya?”

Callie snapped her mouth shut with an audible click. She wasn’t sure whether she wanted to wring Max’s neck or hug him.

Under her breath she muttered. “First you tell me to go for him and now you expect me to play coy. Would you make up your mind, Max? You’re driving me nuts.”

Heaving an exasperated breath, she narrowed her eyes when he chuckled. “I never said a thing about playing coy.”

Callie followed alongside of Max as he wound his way through the small crowd assembled on the back lawn. After several minutes, she found Delia.

“Hi,” she said shyly.

“I’m so glad you two made it!” Delia exclaimed while grasping Callie tightly.

“Maybe now he’ll stop acting like a grizzly with its paw caught in a trap.” Looking at Max, she added, “That boy’s been hard to live with these past few days.”

Callie eyed Max suspiciously just before he said, “So has Callie. Pert near turned into a watering pot, she has.” His old eyes were shining with mirth. She gave him a dirty look just before her breath stilled in her chest.

Warm hands wrapped around her from behind. His scent floated in the air and tickled her senses until she thought she’d end up in a puddle at his feet. Struggling to compose herself, she straightened her shoulders and prepared to turn but Mica wouldn’t allow it.

The fingers of his large hands spread wide across her lower abdomen causing a tingle to start at the apex of her thighs. He pulled her back against him until she was flush against his front.

She could tell he was aroused. His steely length pressed into her backside sending flashes of heat straight to her core, bringing memories to the surface. She could remember the feel of his bare flesh against hers. How he shuddered through his release, the naughty words he would whisper in her ear as his penis delved deep within her body.

Those delicious words always sent her spiraling into the abyss.

Callie began to notice how the others were watching them. Every eye was on the two of them, including Delia and Max.

Turning her head until she could see Mica over her shoulder, she said through clenched teeth, “Let me go, please.”

She was trying to remain calm, in control, but it didn’t seem to be working too well.

If he didn’t let her go, he may just end up getting himself jumped right there, on the lawn for all to see.

“Not on your life, a tsi ye hi,” he said tightening his grip on her waist. She wanted to rant and rave but it would do no good to cause a scene so she stood as still as a statue, and tried to think of another way to extricate herself from his grasp.

“Don’t even think about it, Callie. We will be together here for all to see and you will stay when the others leave.” The words were growled close for her ears only. Meant as a promise, Mica’s words made her nervous.

“I came because I promised Delia, not for you, Mica.” The lie tasted bitter on her tongue but he was making her angry by keeping her prisoner in his arms. Her voice had grown louder, she no longer cared who heard or knew what was being said between the two of them.

“Quiet down, darlin’. You don’t want to ruin the barbeque for my mother do you?”

The laughter in his eyes rubbed her the wrong way. She lifted her foot and stomped as hard as possible on his instep.

“Ouch, dammit! What in the hell did you do that for?” he asked suddenly releasing her.

She made to move away from him, but his large hand circled her wrist. “Let me go, Mica or I’ll do worse next time.”

His eyes narrowed on her below the brim of his Stetson as he reached down with his free hand to rub his boot-covered foot. Heels were good for something, Callie thought wickedly before his hand tightened around her wrist.

“Don’t move,” he warned as he released her. She started to step away but his next words brought her to an abrupt halt. “Move and I’ll tan that sassy ass of yours. Now stay put.”

He forced the words through his clenched jaw. She could see the muscle of his jaw tighten as he stared her down before he walked away. Max and Delia turned from their conversation as he passed by them. Once he was out of sight, Callie hurried over to where they stood.

“I’m ready to go,” she blurted.

“Now?” Max questioned.

“Yes, Max, right now.” She tried not to sound as if she were rushing him, but wasn’t having much luck.

“What’s the hurry, girl?” he asked. “We just got here.”

“I know and I’m sorry. You don’t have to go if you don’t want. Just give me the keys and I’ll go alone,” she said, her eyes darting around looking for Mica. With a hand out, palm up, she said, “Just give me a call when you’re ready and I’ll come and fetch you home.”

“Alright, girl. Ya just calm yerself now,” he said as he searched his pocket for the keys to her truck.

She heaved a sigh of relief once the keys were safely clasped in her hand. Without waiting another moment, she said goodbye to those around her and started toward her truck. She’d made it to the driver’s door when she was once again grabbed from behind.

Only this time the warm arms circling her waist didn’t merely hold her, they tightened, lifting her completely off of the ground.

Turning her in his arms, she found herself facing a slightly amused, considerably angry, blatantly aroused, Mica Blackfeather. Instead of setting her down, he lifted her further into his arms and strode to the barn. Stopping in front of the slightly opened sliding barn door, he commanded. “Open the door, Callie.”

“For what?” she asked breathlessly. The feel of his strong arms around her, his large, callused hands against the bare flesh of her legs was too much. She wanted nothing more than to roll in the hay with the large man holding her.

“Do it now, Callie, or I’ll whip that sassy little ass right here where anyone and everyone can see and hear.”

It took a second for his words to sink in. When they did she began struggling and didn’t stop until his grasp tightened making it impossible for her to breath. When her lungs felt as if they would explode, she stopped struggling.

“I’d open the door if I were you,” he said in a voice too calm for her peace of mind.

“I’ll give you to the count of three.”

“You dumb son of a…”

“One.”

“God Dammit, put me down!” she hissed renewing her struggles.

“Two.”

She couldn’t believe he was doing this. His eyes were half closed from arousal, the irises almost completely black they were so dilated. Whether to adjust to the waning light or his obvious arousal, she didn’t know. As she struggled, her body writhed against his, making her panties even wetter and him noticeably harder.

“Three,” he announced a brief second before he started to set her on her feet.

“Okay, okay,” she said wrapping her arms tightly around his neck, refusing to lower her legs when he made to set her down. When she felt his hands tighten on her again, she reached for the handle and slid the large door open.

*

She was pissed and she looked wonderful. Her color was pink from exertion, her breasts heaved with each breath she took. After opening the door, she clung to his neck like she was an extension of his body.

When they were completely inside the barn, Mica turned so she could close the door.

She hesitated long enough to receive a firm squeeze before finally relenting. He couldn’t help the laughter that exploded from between his lips when she refused to be put down.

Since he was holding her carefully against his body, he couldn’t pry her hands from around his neck. He turned around and strode to the far end of the barn where several bales of hay were stacked.

One stray bale of hay sat alone in front of the others. Without a word, he dropped her on top of it. With no choice in the matter, her grasp loosened from around his neck. She gave a short, piercing shriek just before she landed.

She sat there, perched atop the large bale of hay staring at him with wide green eyes.

“I told you to stay put a tsi ye hi.”

“You’ve got a lot of nerve, Mica Blackfeather. First you kick me out of your life and then you boss me around as if I belong to you. Well, I won’t put up with it.”

After finishing her tirade, she made to leave. He wouldn’t stand for it.

“Enough,” he roared, his booming voice filling the large room.

“You came back so now you are mine. Never forget it, a tsi ye hi.”

“What does that mean?” she asked, then evidently thought better of it. Shaking her head she raised her arm, palm out, as if to ward him off. “Never mind. I’m sure I don’t want to know.”

Her words sounded as if they were coming from a distance. The blood rushing through his veins straight to his cock was making it hard to concentrate. He couldn’t help but look at her, to watch her closely. Her black dress clung lovingly to every inch of her chest making his mouth water. The flared skirt landed modestly above her knees, but the sight of her bare legs was extremely arousing. He wasn’t sure if he’d ever seen her clothed in anything other than jeans. The pale expanse of her long legs sent desire south of his belt buckle making his already hard cock throb.

He had to know what she was wearing beneath the dress. His hand was tingling in anticipation of turning the flesh of her ass a beautiful shade of pink.

“Stand up, Callie.” He watched as she narrowed her eyes while looking around the room, probably in search of an escape route.

“Callie darlin’, if I stand you up myself, I’ll add on to what you’ve already got coming.”

He tried to sound commanding and in control, but his voice shook with the sheer force of his ever-present lust, and the abundance of love she’d planted in his once empty heart.

“Dammit, Mica. I don’t know who you think you are,” she started, jumping to her feet, before he cut her off.

“I’m your husband.”

“Not for long. Remember you said you wanted me to leave? Remember? And you said you’d give me a divorce.”

He could see the hurt in her eyes. Hear the ache of their separation in her voice. Why hadn’t he noticed it before?

“I know what I said, Callie. I was trying to give you the choice, but you came back.

I’m sorry baby, but I won’t let you go again. Now turn around and lift your dress.”

Her eyes snapped to his, her cheeks paled for just a second before they turned crimson.

“Do what?”

“Turn around and lift your dress.” When she still didn’t comply, he added, “Now, Callie.”

Her hands were clasped tightly together in front of her. She looked into his eyes as if weighing his worth. He wondered if he came up lacking in her eyes.

“I don’t think…” was all she got out before he took a step toward her.

“Don’t think, baby. Just do as I said.”

She sure was a bristly thing. As he took another step closer, she whirled around until she was facing away from him.

“The back of your dress, Callie. Lift it. Leave the front down so when you lean over that,” he said, motioning to the bale of hay in front of her, “you won’t scratch yourself.”

Her breath was coming in short, quick pants. The musk of her arousal wafted through the dark interior bringing his to fevered heights.

When she’d collected the back of her dress in her hands, she lifted the silk fabric giving him a clear view of her delectable ass. He stood there, mesmerized. The twin globes were as pale as a newborn babe, nothing like the tanned skin of her face and arms.

They were separated by only an extremely thin length of lace and were bare, ready for the feel of his hand.

“Now lean over, darlin’, and lets get this over with so I can sink into that tight little pussy of yours,” he said, making eye contact as she looked over her shoulder at him.

Her face flamed even redder at his words, but she did as he asked. He only allowed her a few seconds before he laid his palm against her for the first time.

A loud thwack filled the cavernous room followed by a shriek. His palm print bloomed on her ass nicely before he settled to a steady rhythm. By the time he was done, she was moaning and begging for more. He’d known there was something special about her, now he knew what it was. The fact that she enjoyed the feel of his hand against her bare ass was more arousing than words could describe.

The black swatch of lace covering her mound was drenched. He could feel it as she pressed back against his hand as it smoothed over her stinging ass. Her gasp was a combination of stinging pain and extreme pleasure, but the way her body arched into his hand, craving more, was absolutely amazing.

She’d probably be thoroughly pissed when she finally came back to planet Earth, but that was unavoidable. No one liked being forced into an explosive moment for the very first time. He’d take care of all that when she regained herself. For now, he planned to take her to his hideaway and keep her there until she confessed her love for him, and agreed to stay with him forever. To become his a tsi ye hi in every sense of the word.

If he knew Callie at all, he knew there was going to be nothing easy about kidnapping her, but he was going to do it anyway. He was no longer willing to let her make the decisions. He’d done that, and she’d come back to him. There was no way in hell he was going to allow her to leave him again.

CHAPTER TWELVE

Her bottom burned, her clit throbbed and she felt as if she would explode. With her mind whirling, she tried to lift up from her kneeling position where she was still draped over the large bale of hay. Mica’s hand at her lower back stopped her.

She thought about struggling but there was no use. Her bones were nonexistent even though her body was coiled tight with its need for release. When he moved his hand she shivered slightly. The small movement was replaced by a full body shudder when both of his hands settled at her hips.

His big body lowered behind her as he held her steady for his exploration. Her legs were spread leaving her exposed to him. Her thong panties did little to shield her from his view, his touch.

When the fingers of one hand roamed to the inside of her thigh she couldn’t help but move her hips. The extent of her arousal was overwhelming. The stinging burn on her bottom had spread throughout her body, making her frantic with need.

He was moving much too slow for her peace of mind, so she thrust her hips back trying to coax his fingers into her heated core, hoping like hell he’d set her off so she could chew him out for spanking her in the first place.

The little devil sitting slyly on her shoulder reminded her just how much she’d enjoyed it, making her wonder how naughty she’d have to be for a repeat. Evidently not much, because his hand landed on her already tingling flesh with a resounding smack, causing her to jump.

“Stay still,”

It was almost impossible, but she somehow managed to do as he asked. The next sensation she felt almost sent her over, but not quite. He was toying with her, playing on her needs and making her crazy in the process.

His breath was warm and moist across her lower back. The tiny kisses sensitized every nerve ending. The small lapping licks brought tiny bumps to her skin. As he nipped his way down the full curve of her backside, she giggled and tried to rise.

He was quick. Settling one large hand at her base of her spine, he kept her in place.

His other hand fondled the swollen bud of her clit until she was whimpering and on edge before he backed off.

“Mica,” she complained, needing the feel of his hand on her.

When he didn’t answer, only continued with the erotic torture he was subjecting her to, she cried out in frustration.

“Would you just fuck me already!”

His hands stilled before they slid from her body. “Not yet, baby.”

Callie’s sobbing breaths could be heard throughout the barn, the sound echoing off the walls. “Yes, Mica. Now.”

She felt absolutely bereft when he rose to his feet leaving her. His hands gripped her waist as he drew her to her feet.

“Come on a tsi ye hi. It is time to go.”

“Go?” she asked, not quite comprehending what he had planned. His next words proved he hadn’t planned to take any chances of her ever leaving again.

“I’ve left a note in the house that you are with me so that Max won’t worry about you. We will return when you agree to stay with me. My mother will explain to him any questions he might have.”

“What are you talking about?” She was starting to feel as if she were being left in the dark and didn’t like the feeling at all. “I didn’t say I would go anywhere with you.”

“I know, Callie, but you will. Midnight and Little Girl are saddled and ready. Either you come with me willingly, or I take you there kicking and screaming if necessary. It’s up to you.”

The man was an arrogant beast. She’d love nothing more than to tell him how much she loved him, how she’d give everything to be loved in return, but it wasn’t love that he wanted, he wanted revenge. She didn’t know if she could play along, if she would be able to survive the broken heart sure to follow.

It would be better to get away from Mica and stay away from him. To do her best to forget and forgive, but the look on his ruggedly handsome face told her he wouldn’t let her go.

“Okay,” she said.

He led her from the barn to the corral where the two horses were ready just as he’d said they were. Callie mounted Little Girl but her heart was aching, her mind in turmoil.

If she went willingly with him, he would have the upper hand. He’d own more than just her body, he’d own her heart, and that wasn’t something she was willing to let happen without a piece of his as well.

When Mica turned in his saddle to check over a bag of supplies, she kneed Little Girl in hopes of getting away. It was too much to hope for, but she had to try. Within seconds he’d caught her. In one swift motion he had the reigns out of her hands, yanked her off Little Girl and pulled her onto Midnight in front of him.

“Don’t try a stupid stunt like that again!” he bit out, his voice angry.

As they rode from the barn, she noticed how solid and warm he felt behind her. She wanted to talk to him, to ask him where they were going and what he had planned, but she didn’t want to give him the satisfaction of letting him know she was worried.

She was so deep in thought that she didn’t notice when he slowed Midnight and stopped.

“Turn around, darlin’,” he insisted, his tone sensual. She could imagine his eyes dark with lust. Callie started to do as he asked, and with a bit of help, she soon found herself seated in his lap, her legs straddling him, in direct alignment with his engorged cock.

“Unfasten my pants, Callie. Your ass wriggling on my lap all this way has me so hard I can’t wait to take you.”

Her heart rate sped up furiously. Her blood heated as it coursed through her veins settling within her folds, causing them to plump up in anticipation of his impressive length. With fumbling fingers she released his belt buckle and slid the top button of his jeans through its respective hole before she slowly lowered his zipper.

There was nothing else to get in her way. Gone were his usual briefs. Instead his cock sprang into the palm of her hand. The tip glistened with a pearly drop of pre-cum.

“Climb on Callie, before I explode from just the feel of your hand.” His voice was rough and grated deliciously over every inch of her flesh.

When he lifted her dress she began to wonder how she’d get her panties off. Before she had time to give it much consideration, he’d moved them aside and impaled her on his rigid shaft.

Her muscles protested the intrusion. The fading sting of her bottom as his large hands squeezed her there brought her ardor back to a feverish pitch.

He gave her a minute before he lifted her only to lower her until he was fully seated inside of her once again. She could feel every bit of him, every vein as it throbbed to life within her.

Callie felt his legs tighten as he kneed Midnight into a walk. The rocking motion was delicious as it rubbed them together. Within moments she was shuddering in his arms.

Her release washed over her in a sensual wave that left her satisfied but still aroused.

Her face was buried in his neck, his manly scent making her light headed. A flick of her tongue and his taste filled her senses leaving her hungry for more. It was too late. No longer would she be able to deny her love for Mica Blackfeather. If he broke her heart she would find a way to deal with it, but she had to tell him.

She’d opened her mouth to tell him when he kneed Midnight into a canter. The unexpected change in pace slammed her onto Mica causing her to cry out in pleasure as his cock nudged her womb.

For what seemed like hours she rode Mica as they both rode Midnight. The moderate gallop of Midnight’s canter was easy, but it left little room for maneuverability. She was a prisoner of her own desire as Mica’s cock surged into her over and over again.

*

Mica thought his head was going to shoot right off his shoulders the feeling was so primal. The feel of Callie’s wet pussy as it engulfed him made his head reel. Her breathy cries as Midnight’s gait forced her up and down his shaft were surreal.

The scent of sex wafted up between them with every movement of their bodies.

When her tight sheath clenched him, her muscles trembling, he could hold back no longer. Their combined cries floated on the wind and before he knew it, Midnight had led them to the rocky outcrop where he planned to make Callie his wife in every way possible.

He had no time to dwell upon the sated effect their ride had on his body before her breath whooshed over the sensitive flesh of his neck.

“I know you only want revenge, Mica but I can’t live that way.”

His breath stilled in his chest, the ache there grew to enormous proportions as the pain in her voice was palpable. He could feel the wetness of her tears as they soaked his shirt. He opened his mouth to speak but was cut off when she continued.

“I know you think the worst of me for what I did to you and Delia and that forgiveness isn’t something you’re willing to give, but you have to know that I love you with everything I am. If I could go back and change everything I would.”

She was openly sobbing even as his eyes burned with unshed tears. He lifted Callie from his now flaccid cock and dismounted. When he’d adjusted himself, he gathered her into his arms and headed toward the cave-like structure where he’d planned to seduce and love her until she gave in.

So much for that plan, he thought wryly.

He sat her down upon a folded sleeping bag then watched and waited. Within minutes, she cleared the tears from her eyes and looked around in wonder.

“What is all this, Mica?”

“I’ve kidnapped you. I had planned to keep you here until you agreed to become my a tsi ye hi in every way. I had planned to tell you of my love for you and beg your forgiveness for my lack of honor, for laying blame where there was none.”

Tears streamed from her eyes again. The twin rivers flowed freely down her cheeks making them sparkle in the moonlight. “What does that mean, Mica? I was afraid to ask before, not at all sure that I could deal with what it might be, but now I’d like to know.

What does a tsi ye hi mean?”

“It means wife. You are my a tsi ye hi. Gv ge yu hi.”

She laughed through her tears and it warmed his heart. “What are you laughing at?”

he asked, not sure what had brought on the wonderful sound.

“I know what that means and I never thought I would hear you tell me those words.

Gv ge yu hi, my u ye hi, husband.” She said struggling with the foreign word his mother had more than likely taught her. Then she repeated the sacred words in English. “I love you, Mica Blackfeather. Forever and always.”

His laughter mingled with hers just as their hearts now belonged to the other. The rest of the night was spent in bliss beneath the rocky outcrop with the stars for company.

EPILOGUE

Three months later, Callie Blackfeather once again crossed under the archway of the Triple J to see a crowd of people mingling on the front lawn. Things were different this time. Instead of an aching heart, she felt nothing but happiness. The small swell of her abdomen was cause for rejoicing. The man sitting next to her was her soul mate, her everything. Devilishly handsome, he kept her close and loved her deeply.

The crowd cheered as they vacated the luxurious interior of Mica’s sports car. If she got very big during her pregnancy she doubted she’d even fit behind the dashboard.

Her cream colored suit hid their tiny secret well. For some reason, she wasn’t ready for the general population to know that there would soon be a baby Blackfeather running around. For now, he or she would remain a secret.

Mica pulled her into his arms. “Are you happy, darlin’?” he asked, his eyes twinkling mischievously,

“More than you’ll ever know,” she answered remembering their wedding night. Not the first one, but last night. They’d been married in a private ceremony under the stars with only Max and Delia present. Then Mica had whisked her off for a night of romance in the rocky outcrop where they’d found true love.

Today was the first day of the beginning of their new life together. One they hoped and prayed would be full of joy, laughter and love. From the looks of the cheering crowd gathered for their reception, they were to be very blessed.

AFTERWORD

A special thanks to Barbara and the Cherokees of California, Inc website for allowing me to use the guide below as well as the English to Cherokee translator at www.wehali.com/tsalagi and last but not least, I would like to thank Chief Bill Little Red Wolf Chance of the Indian Creek Band, Chickamauga and Cherokee, Inc. who has helped me on numerous occasions with my Cherokee genealogy research. I hope your futures are bright and there are not too many sharp stones on your path.

Wa do (Thank You),

Maggie Casper

Cherokee Terms Used In For The Love Of Callie

Son = u we tsi

Mother = e tsi

Daughter = u we tsi a ge ya

Wife = a tsi ye hi

Husband = u ye hi

Dear = a wi

Beautiful = u wo du hi

Sunshine = a ga li ha

Beautiful Sunshine =u wo du hi-a ga li ha

I Love You/love = gv ge yu hi

Cherokee Syllabary Pronunciation Key

Vowel Sounds

a, as a in father, or short as a in rival

e, as a in hate, or short as e in met

i, as i in pique, or short as i in pit

o, as o in note, approaching aw as in law

u, as oo in fool, or short as u in pull

v, as u in but, nasalized

The Cherokee alphabet is written in the syllabary form. A syllabary is an alphabet in which each letter in a word stands for a whole syllable (such as “ga” ) instead of a single letter (such as “g”). With the exception of the letter “s,” Cherokee is a complete syllabary.

Almost all Cherokee syllables end in a vowel. When using the syllabary, Cherokee words can almost always be spelled as they are pronounced. Spelling sometimes varies when using English letters to interpret the syllables.

The Cherokee language uses the following English consonants: d g h k l m n q s t w

The following English consonants do not exixt in the Cherokee language: b f p r* t v x z.

*The Eastern or lower dialect which is now extinct used a rolling “r”, which took the place of the “l” of the other dialects.

A beginning speaker should try keep the lips still, mouth slightly opened, pressing the tongue against the lower teeth.

Syllables beginning with “g” except (ga) are pronounced almost as in English, but approaching to (k).

Syllables beginning with “d” are pronounced almost as in English, but approaching to (t); do, du , dv are sounded as to, tu, tv in some words.

Syllables written with (ti) except (tla) sometimes vary to “di”. The syllables “do, du, dv “ are sometimes sounded “to, tu, tv.”

The syllables qua, que, qui, quo, quu, quv are pronounced with a “kw” sound before each vowel.

The syllables dla, tla, tle, tli, tlo, tlu, tlv are pronounced by touching the tongue to the roof of the mouth and bringing it down as the syllables are spoken. The syllables written with “tl” except “tla” sometimes are pronounced “dl”.

The syllables tsa, tse, tsi, tso, tsu, tsv are pronounced a little differently depending upon the dialect. In Western Cherokee the syllables are usually pronounced as the “j” in jaw. Remember to try to keep the tongue at the bottom of the mouth, touching the bottom teeth and the “j” sound becomes softer.

At times, Cherokee syllables have unvoiced or silent vowels. At times the silent vowel may be indicated with an apostrophe as in the number seven, “ga l' quo gi”-or indicated by brackets “ga (li) quo gi.” When this happens the consonant in that syllable is pronounced with the preceding syllable, “gal quo gi.”

The End

About the Author:

Maggie Casper’s life could be called many things but boring isn’t one of them. If asked, Maggie would tell you that blessed would more aptly describe her everyday existence.

Marrying young and being loved by a great husband and four gorgeous daughters should be enough to make anybody feel blessed. Add to that a bit of challenge, a lot of fun and an undeniably close circle of friends and family, and you’d be walking in her shoes.

Speaking of challenges and fun, when not writing, Maggie’s alter ego spends her time fighting fires and treating patients as a Lieutenant and Advanced Emergency Medical Technician with the local fire department. These awesome people are like her second family, no picking and choosing, they’re just stuck with her.

A love of reading was passed on by Maggie’s mother at a very early age and so began her addiction to romance novels. Maggie admits to writing some in high school but when life got in the way, she put her pen and paper up. Seems that things changed over the years because when she finally decided it was time to put her story ideas on paper the pen was out and the computer was in. Took her a while to catch up but she finally made it.

When not writing, Maggie can usually be found reading, doing genealogy research or watching NASCAR. If you’d like, drop by www.maggiecasper.com to see what Maggie’s working on next.

Meet LSB authors at http://lsbooks.net

We invite you to visit Liquid Silver Books

http://lsbooks.com

for other exciting literary erotica romances.

Weekend Games—Chris Tanglen

Destiny's Magick—Rae Morgan

Love Lessons—Vanessa Hart

Portal—Sydney Morgann

Bittersweet—Louisa Trent

Business or Pleasure…or Both?—Rae Morgan and Jasmine Haynes And many, many more!!

Table of Contents

CHAPTER ONE

CHAPTER TWO

CHAPTER THREE

CHAPTER FOUR

CHAPTER FIVE

CHAPTER SIX

CHAPTER SEVEN

CHAPTER EIGHT

CHAPTER NINE

CHAPTER TEN

CHAPTER ELEVEN

CHAPTER TWELVE

EPILOGUE