Chapter two
That next night after the diner closed her father called her from the kitchen. She found him pouring them both a tea when she walked out of the kitchen.
"I want to talk to you Mia."
"Sure." She said with a smile.
"Come and take a seat." He motioned to one of the booths against the wall.
Sliding into the cushioned seat she finally noticed the concern on her father’s face as he sat across from her. "What’s wrong?"
"Well I don’t know if there’s anything wrong." He gave her the other mug, "When I sent you over to Lauren’s hair salon with her lunch order I had a visit from the new deputy chief of police." Lietha Wards 26
"What? He came here?" Even though he said he was going to it still took her by surprise.
Nodding, he studied her expression, "That man seems quite sweet on you."
"I really don’t know him all that well Dad, I just met him several days ago." She explained trying to keep the excitement out of her voice. He actually came and spoke to her father like he said he would? It was just so difficult to believe.
"Yeah he told me. I just wanted you to know how I felt about all of this so I need you to listen to me because honey, you’re very precious to me and my only child, so if someone asks to start seeing you, I’m going to be a little protective."
"I understand that." She said trying not to show that she was bursting with anticipation at what Gage had said to him.
"Did you want to go to Craigan’s Gully on Saturday?"
She gave him a shy lift of her shoulders.
"Does this man Gage appeal to you? I mean Liam has been chasing you for over a year and everyone knows he’s more that trustworthy."
"It’s not that. I’m not attracted to Liam that way—"
"And you are with Gage Hart?" his brows rose. "You hardly know him."
"He’s different." She shrugged trying not to look as interested as she was. How could she tell her father how he made her feel in the few moments that she met him?
He leaned back in his seat, not missing the pinking of her cheeks when he mentioned the attraction. "I see that you’re a little sweet on him too. Although I am wary about a stranger asking you out, the man came in here and asked me personally if he could date you. In this day and age, it’s practically unheard of, and I respect him for that, but Mia, we don’t know anything about him—"
"He’s a cop." She said as if that made all the sense in the Mercenary’s Conquest 27
world, "And Teddy would clobber him if he hurt me."
"True on both counts, but a father’s instincts are to make sure that you are protected. Do you know the man is twenty-six? That’s eight years difference. It means he’s got some experience under his belt where women are concerned and I worry about his intentions. That alone should make me tell you that you can’t date him. However—" he raised his hand when she started to protest, "I know that you are old enough to make these decisions and I pray to God that your mother and I raised you right to do so responsibly."
"We’ll be with half the police force in Scott Springs." She offered in her defence.
His brows arched slightly over her defence of the man, "Yes he told me that after I voiced my concerns."
She near groaned, knowing her father just basically read him the riot act. "I’m eighteen dad, I won’t do anything stupid. Basically we’re just going swimming with some friends." She looked away, ‘Besides, he’ll probably tire of me. I’m not all that pretty so I really don’t understand why he asked me out in the first place." He father’s silence made her look back at him just to see a shocked look on his expression.
"Is that what you honestly think?" She nodded, "My God Mia, that’s as far from the truth as you could possible get."
"But I wasn’t popular in high school and—"
"—no, but there’s a reason for that. You weren’t popular in certain ways honey, and don’t give me that look. It wasn’t that long ago that I’d forgotten my school days and what makes a girl popular. This man, Gage, sees you like I see you and that makes me know that he has an experienced eye. Because if you were dolled up no one would dare look away from you."
"Dad!" she instantly flushed.
"There’s more so bear with me. I phoned Teddy and found out that this man is more than what he seems." Lietha Wards 28
"Oh no, you didn’t!" her mouth fell open.
"Let me continue. His resume was so impressive that Teddy dare not hire him. He recently retired from the army. Now Teddy has a few friends in the government and found out that this guy used to be Special Forces. Apparently he speaks something like five languages and has knowledge of weapons, war tactics and so on, so he’s no na?ve small town redneck."
"Oh." Her jaw dropped, "What’s he doing here?"
"Teddy didn’t know, but I worry to think why he picked our town over any other." And my daughter over other women, more experienced women, he thought to himself, "I mean, no one would hesitate to hire this guy no matter where he applied." He took a long drink from his tea that had gotten lukewarm, "Honey, you know I served in Desert Storm and although I never told your mother or you about the things I saw, they were what nightmares were made of, but what this guy did and saw probably goes beyond that. This is what worries me the most. He probably has ghosts in him."
"Lisa likes him."
He frowned, "Lisa likes him because he’s a good looking man, new in town so he’s got a sense of mystery around him, and wears a uniform. If she wasn’t dating Charlie, she’d be chasing Liam, his older brother just for that reason."
"Dad." She protested.
"I’m sorry if I’m sounding protective, but I gave you my reasons. I know you are smart Mia, but this is something you are not used to. Like I said I’ll give him credit for asking me, but there’s no doubt that he’s and assertive man in his prime and I don’t want him pushing you into anything you don’t want to do."
"I promise I’ll stay with the rest of the group if that makes you relax, but Dad, I really want to go."
"God knows you deserve it, so I’m agreeing, just please heed my warning okay?" Mercenary’s Conquest 29
She jumped out of her seat and hugged him, "I will, thanks."
"You never know if his sister wants to just work for tips, I might take him up on this offer more." He grinned trying to savour his daughter’s enthusiasm; it seemed like forever since he’d seen her really smile. Ever since her mother died, she seemed to have withdrawn into herself. He knew why. He was dealing with the death of his wife too, and Mia being the sweetheart she was, didn’t want to bother him with her own grief. He had tried several times to get her to talk to him, or even a professional that deals with these sorts of things, but she would refuse. It was times like this that he was glad she had friends hoping that she was at least confiding in them.
However, he didn’t miss the way she lit up when he mentioned the new deputy chief. Mia never had a boyfriend, and George thought this man was way too worldly for his daughter. He’d met Gage’s type before, but not here. It was in Iraq. He had that look about him that made George know he’d killed before. When someone does that, a part of them dies inside. George had killed people himself, but whatever he saw in Gage’s eyes frightened him. He knew the man probably saw some horrible evils and usually that made men like him unstable and dangerous. He of all people should know because of something that had happened in his past. Something he never told Mia, but his wife knew bits and pieces and she took it with her to her grave.
This new deputy was a frightening man, but he also knew that if he didn’t give him permission to date his daughter he would take what he wanted anyway. At least this way George could keep his eye on the two of them. If he said no, chances were that Gage would somehow get his hands on her and there would be nothing he could do. He could read enough off of him to know that. Keep your enemies closer, he said to himself. If Lietha Wards 30
anything happened to Mia, Teddy and he would take care of the man. He may have been older, but he could still handle himself.
The next day a brand new topless black and chrome Jeep TJ with overlarge tires pulled up in front of the diner. Mia saw Gage and a younger very pretty brunette get out.
"I’m going Dad." She called towards the kitchen as she grabbed her bag and tried not to look too hurried as she met him at the door. Although she thought he looked good in a uniform, she realized now that he probably looked good in anything. His white t-shirt stretched over his thick chest and biceps, tucked into his narrow waist of the jeans he wore and it left not much to the imagination that this guy was one hundred percent solid muscle. She could even see the rippled washboard of his abs at one particular moment when he was opening the door. Quickly she averted her gaze hoping not to get caught. She had never stared—no ogled a man like that before in her life.
Gage opened the door for his sister, "this is Jane." He said to Mia.
"Hi Mia," she grinned widely as she held out her hand and Mia shook it.
Mia smiled back. She couldn’t help herself, the younger girl was infectious. "Have you worked in a diner before?"
"Of course." She extended a leg and pointed downward. "Notice the flat shoes. I’m not inclined to work all day in heels."
"Smart." She answered.
"Go have a nice time." She winked at Mia causing her cheeks to pink up a bit.
Then before she could say or do anything she felt his strong hand thread into hers, "We will, Jane, don’t give Mr. Cooper such a hard time." He said over her head.
"Me?" she said with a look of mock shock, "never."
"Right." He flicked an amused look at Mia, "Ready?" Mercenary’s Conquest 31
She couldn’t answer but did manage a nod. His hand was warm and there was no denying the strength in it when it practically engulfed hers. He gave her a slow sensual smile almost as if he could read her mind.
"Let’s go then." He tugged her out of the diner and walked her around the passenger side of the jeep.
"This is nice." She stopped to look at the Jeep.
"I’m glad you like it."
"It suits you." She said before she could stop herself.
"How’s that?" He cocked a single brow.
She shrugged not wanting to say more. Because it’s big, powerful and sexy, she thought to herself. "Never mind." She mumbled.
He just chuckled as he helped her in then reached across her lap for the seatbelt. Mia lifted her hands out of the way.
"what is this?"
"It’s more of a harness." He glanced at her while brushing his knuckles across her midsection snapping the clasp in place. Then he gave it a bit of a tug and looked at her, "This vehicle is custom made for off road recreation so the harnesses are a necessity."
"Are you planning to take me off road?" she looked at him.
"Not unless you want me to." He answered with a tone that hinted to an underlying meaning before he turned and walked around to slide into the driver’s seat and fastened his own harness. He started the Jeep and turned to her, "Any stops?"
"Nope." She smiled.
"All right." He grinned shifting it into gear and pulling out onto the road.
Mia placed her hand on the roll bar beside her as her ponytail whipped back off her face. She couldn’t help herself Lietha Wards 32
but laugh at the feeling and missed his sideways grin.
"You like speed?"
She glanced back at him, "I don’t know. I’ve never sped anywhere." She answered honestly, "Lisa, my best friend, speeds a lot, but not when I’m with her because my father told her not to."
"I bet you are an adrenaline junkie at heart, you just never got to explore it."
"And I hear you’re the local expert." She pushed her rebellious hair out of her face and turned to look at him.
"Ah," he said as the knowledge hit him and he flicked her an amused glance, "Daddy’s worried."
"Sorry, he usually isn’t so protective." She said slightly embarrassed. After all, she was eighteen and her father still treated her as if she was in grade school over certain things.
"No?"
"No."
He slanted her a sensual look, and his eyes dropped to her mouth, "Maybe he has good reason. Can’t say I blame him."
"I told him he could trust you." She practically blurted, that heated look completely unnerved her. Oh darn, there was that warm stirring in the pit of her stomach just because of it. It was a feeling that was new to her, and it was very distracting.
"You jumped the gun." He said huskily as his eyes went back to hers.
"I hope not." She smiled and narrowed her gaze teasingly, "If you misbehave, I’ll sick Teddy on you." This got her a deep laugh.
"Don’t worry Mia," he reached over and squeezed the hand she had on her lap, "Whatever I do to you, you’ll want." Teddy was no threat to him and he knew it.
He followed that statement with such a sexy smile that told Mia, he was probably right and she didn’t know how to respond Mercenary’s Conquest 33
to it.
Twenty minutes later he was parking the jeep on top of the gorge that over looked part of the lake. It was a favourite hangout for a lot of people because the brave ones would dive off of the rocky cliff into the water fifteen feet below. There were already another half a dozen vehicles there and she easily recognized them. Liam’s red ford truck was there so she knew he was and she silently hoped that he wouldn’t get upset at seeing her with Gage. Looking down at the complicated clasp she wasn’t sure how to undo it and get out. However, just as she reached for it, he reached over and did it for her.
"Thanks."
"No problem." He said while hovering his head barely inches from hers.
She turned to find him looking at her and for a moment they just stared at one another. His eyes were so hypnotic, they seemed to see right into her bare soul. She couldn’t find it in her to turn away despite the heat that seemed to form between them, "Down boy." She heard herself say in barely a whisper. A sinful smile draped across his handsome face.
"That goes both ways Mia." He said huskily.
"Yeah, you’re so right." She flicked a glance at his mouth.
His answer was a deep sexy chuckle, "That’s good to know." He took a deep breath and shook his head subtly as in disbelief before he turned away and easily hopped out of the jeep. "Come on Honey. I could stare at you all day, but people are waiting for this." He said as he walked around back and grabbed the cooler out of the back.
Did he really mean that about staring? Mia remembered the subtle head shake and wondered if she affected him as much as he did her. It was hard for her to believe because she honestly didn’t think she was that pretty. Why did everything about this man set her senses on fire? She climbed out of the Lietha Wards 34
jeep and grabbed her bag noticing that he waited for her with that same sensual smile on his face. Right then and there she knew she was in trouble of completely falling for him. She never knew it was possible that a man could flatter a woman with just a look, but Gage certainly could.
Together they walked down the path that carried them to the sandy beach below. There were faint voices floating up from there and she fell in step beside him as they made their way through the trees. She noticed that from the way his biceps were bulging that the cooler and its contents must’ve been heavy, but not once did it show on him. He walked at an easy pace and she unconsciously licked her lips that had become suddenly dry.
Here she was staring again. She had to distract herself. "Do you mind if I ask you why your sister lives with you?"she asked
"Not at all, no parents," he said without looking at her.
"Oh, I’m sorry." She detected a bit of a hard edge to his tone and felt like she was prying.
He spared her a glance that was unreadable, "No problem Mia, they weren’t very good parents anyway." He returned his attention to the path
What a horrible thing, she thought. She couldn’t imagine what kind of childhood he had. What could have been so bad for him to say something about his parents and not even show any emotion over it? She knew she had a sheltered life, because her parents loved her very much. It was hard for her to imagine someone who had a loveless upbringing. However, the man seemed so sure of himself and outgoing. Didn’t most abused children withdraw? She snuck several looks at his profile while they walked down the path toward the beach. There was no doubt that the man was self confident from the set of his chin and the tilt of his head. It was as obvious as the sky was blue and Mercenary’s Conquest 35
rightly so.
Shouts caught her attention when the others saw them emerge from the path and Mia breathed a sigh of relief when she saw that Liam brought a date. As if reading her thoughts Gage bent toward her and spoke low enough that no one else heard them.
"He didn’t have a hope in hell anyway."
Mia actually giggled at his statement, "Shh."
"Tell me that’s the beer!" said Liam.
"It is." Gage said as he set the cooler down, flipped it open and grabbed one. "Do you want one Mia?"
"I don’t drink." She turned away a bit so he could only see her expression, "I’m too young."
"We’re not on duty and none of us would say anything if you would like one, but there’s no pressure here." He added holding the beer for her to take. "Liam’s only twenty."
She shrugged and took it from him, ‘Okay."
He reached down and grabbed another.
In all there were about sixteen people there. Mia had changed into her bikini several hours ago and although she usually wore a tank top or a sarong she decided against it. None of the other girls there did and she didn’t want to seem immature and insecure. However, Gage had no problem showing how gorgeous his body was. He had on swimming shorts but what was visible as sinewy and bulky; from his thick chest to his washboard abs, fat stomach and long muscular legs. There were several tattoos on his thick biceps and a Celtic cross on his left pectoral with some sort of saying written in it in a language she didn’t’ recognize. She was too shy to ask him what it meant because he would know that she was staring at him. It didn’t take long for her to notice that the other girls stole glances at him when they thought no one else was watching causing her to feel what she later determined to be a twinge of Lietha Wards 36
jealousy. It was an emotion that she wasn’t used to so it took some time to realize what it was. Yet, she had no reason to think that, because it was her he brought and it was her he watched through the crowd when he was engaged in conversation with another. She would just give him a shy smile and turn away.
Despite that little episode of Jealousy, Mia couldn’t remember having such a good time before in her life. It didn’t help that she was with the most gorgeous man there and he was very attentive to her. She didn’t think she laughed so hard since before her mother died. Especially when the men thought they would challenge each other’s masculinity and race across the lake and back while the woman cheered on the shore.
First of all Liam and a few others tried to convince Gage that he was too old to be swimming and he should leave it to the younger men. It was only later that she found out from some of the other girls that they took one look at the man’s body and knew they were going to be creamed, and that was a complete understatement. The man was almost as comfortable in water as he was on land and left the rest of them behind. Then he emerged from the lake and still had enough energy to scoop up Mia in his arms and carry her back into the water screeching while the others laughed. "I’m not the only one getting wet." He said as he tossed her into the lake.
They spent part of the day swimming and Merrill fussed with the volleyball net he brought causing Debbie, his girlfriend to laugh.
"He can shoot a twig off an oak tree at fifty yards, but he can’t put together a net." She said to Mia causing her to burst out laughing and Merrill to shoot them both a suspicious look.
"These instructions don’t make any bloody sense!" he scowled at the piece of paper he held.
"You’re probably reading French," offered Gage getting a Mercenary’s Conquest 37
laugh from those around them and Merrill to shoot him a look of contempt.
"There isn’t any English on here Gage. It looks like Spanish, German, " he squinted at the wording,"—and who the hell knows—" he threw up his hands in defeat, "—obviously speaking English isn’t important."
Gage went over and held out his hand, "Let me help."
"Yeah, you try." Merrill gave him the paper and Gage started to point to the poles and tell him which one to insert where.
"Man you speak Spanish?"
"It’s actually Greek." He chuckled.
"Wow, just when you think you know a guy." He bent over and started assembling the parts. "Who the hell puts freakin’ Greek on instructions anyway?" He grumbled.
Debbie made her way over to Mia who was sitting on a log that Gage spread a blanket on nursing her second beer. She took a quick glance over her shoulder, before sitting next to her, "Fess up Mia, how the hell did you get him to go out with you. Everyone’s dying of envy." She whispered so no one else could hear.
"He just asked me." She said with some surprise and a look of innocence that no one could contest.
"Did you know that he’s been chased by every single," she cleared her throat and lowered her voice so the others didn’t hear her, "and not so single woman since he got here, hell, he could have a harem. Yet, he didn’t date anyone until now."
Maybe it was the beer that made her a little tipsy but she giggled at Debbie’s choice of words and coughed catching some of the beer in her windpipe.
Debbie smiled, "Sorry, I should have waited."
"Its all right," she smiled, "I don’t know why he asked me Lietha Wards 38
out anyway."
Debbie leaned back and roved her eyes over Mia, "No? Mia, you have a lot to learn. You are drop dead sexy in that bikini. Obviously Gage can see the swan in a pond full of ducks. If I had your body I’d be chasing a modelling career."
Mia flushed furiously focusing her eyes on the other woman in disbelief. First Gage, and now Debbie.
"I’m serious." She saw her expression, "You really don’t have any idea how beautiful you are do you?"
"I don’t think I’m ugly." She said sheepishly.
"Oh dear, he does have good instincts." She laughed and patted Mia’s knee, "Here he comes, I’m outta here." She stood up and flashed her a smile as Gage approached her.
To Mia’s ultimate surprise he straddled the log beside her and placed a large hand on her crossed thighs and one on her hip to pull her between his legs, "Are you having fun?" he leaned down and spoke softly in her ear.
She felt her breath catch in her throat at the close proximity. It wasn’t normal for her to let a man get so close to her but she couldn’t deny that she liked it with him—a lot. "I am." She said not realizing how breathless she sounded.
"Me too." He squeezed her thigh and it was then that she realized he still had his hand on her. He felt her stiffen, "Sorry," he said removing his hand, but he didn’t move away from her, "I forgot that you’re not used to this."
Feeling brave she looked up at him and gave him a generous grin, "You don’t know what I’m used to." What she got in response was a roguish smile and a prolonged stare from those striking hazel eyes.
"Oh I can guess little girl, but don’t tempt me. I’m in no hurry to ravish you quite yet." His eyes darkened revealing more flecks of gold . "Although you are very very tempting."
If she was feeling brave, his own self confidence just Mercenary’s Conquest 39
crushed hers, "Oh dear, you have to stop." She said in the same breathless tone meeting his eyes and causing him to chuckle deeply.
"No, don’t back down now." He said huskily, "You were doing so well." He gave her a devilish grin.
Her eyes dropped to his mouth, "Well—then you’d better enlighten me to what I was suppose to say, because I’m struggling for words right now."
His free hand came up and caressed the soft line of her jaw as his face inched closer to hers, "You were supposed to say ‘what do you see that is so tempting?’ and then I go on to describe how incredibly beautiful you are." He said deeply as he tilted her face up and settled his mouth to the right of her lips to brush a kiss in that same area, "Then you become so flattered that you can’t resist my charm."
Her eyes closed against the caress of his mouth and she was sure her heart was ready to pop out of her chest from the way it was beating, "I’m already having that problem." She admitted softly getting her a deep throaty chuckle as he turned her face the other way and repeated the sensual contact of his warm mouth to her skin.
"Then—" he erected himself and focused his green-gold eyes on her again, "we carry our relationship to the next level and you allow me to kiss you for real."
A slow smile spread across her face, "Is that what the next level is?"
"In my book and with you, it is." His thumb rubbed her chin softly.
Her brows went up, "So if it wasn’t me, but someone else, what do you consider your next level?" Just when she thought he couldn’t look any more appealing, his smile went from devilish to downright sinful and his eyes twinkled mischievously. Lietha Wards 40
"Mia, I’m beginning to think you are a bit of an adrenaline junkie. Didn’t daddy ever tell you not to tease the carnivores at the zoo?"
Her eyes widened at that statement.
"Yes, I can see he has." He leaned over and kissed her on the forehead. "But don’t worry, this is one carnivore that can control his hunger, for now." He stood, and held out his hand, "Time for volleyball." He had to quit touching her, because he could feel the familiar heat enter his groin and walking around with an erection in his swim trunks would probably draw some attention.
Smiling she took his hand and allowed him to pull her to her feet, but like before he didn’t release her until they reached the others.
Volleyball was a blast and Mia missed the ball more than she hit it, but everyone didn’t seem to mind. Then as it got dark Merrill whipped out his guitar and sang while they sat around the fire.
It was around midnight when they all started packing up. Merrill was just pulling away in his old Ford Bronco leaving Gage and her the last to leave. As before he walked her around to the passenger side, but he didn’t help her in. Instead he turned her around to face him and gently pushed her against the side of his jeep, bringing his body up against hers.
"Gage—" she said in surprise at the quick movement.
"I’m not going to hurt you Mia." He said huskily looking down at her, "I’m just asking you for a goodnight kiss now, because your father is probably staking out your front porch with a shotgun slung over his shoulder and I know he won’t let me and I really want that kiss."
This caused her to laugh despite the intimate positon, because he was probably right.
"That’s better." His hands cupped her head and he began Mercenary’s Conquest 41
to lower his head to hers.
"Gage—" he stopped barely inches from her mouth, "I never kissed a man before."
"Good." He said against her mouth as he kissed her not the least bit bothered by her confession.
If she could have fantasized about this, it still wouldn’t sum up the feelings racing though her right now as his mouth took hers. Her heart rate tripled, and she suddenly felt very warm. Then her knees started to tremble. Involuntarily she moaned against him and that caused him to finally lift his head.
"Better than I thought." He murmured deeply against her mouth.
"Me too." She rushed out causing him to smile and his eyes to glitter.
"Honey, you are way too honest with your feelings." His spoke deeply as eyes searched hers. "I’m becoming quite attracted to that characteristic you have—among other things." One of his hands slid down her ribcage to her hip. His other hand remained on her cheek, "I bet that wild side of you is burning to get out."
"What makes you think that?"
"I know, not think and it’s written all over that innocent little face of yours." His thumb brushed over the soft silky skin of her cheek, and he lowered his head to brush his mouth across the same area, "I was wondering what it would be like to touch you and I like it. I like it a lot."
He was such a large powerful man that even if she didn’t like him so close to her, there was no way on earth she could push him back, but she didn’t want to. She could feel the thud of his heart vibrate against her chest and the heat of his body was stirring feelings in her that were mind rattling. Unconsciously she let her jaw drop and her lips parted ever so slightly. So he did what any man did with such a pose. He Lietha Wards 42
lowered his mouth to hers again and slanted his lips passionately over hers. This time her hands slid up his hard chest and around his neck and it gave him the invitation he needed to take it farther. Sliding his tongue between those full parted lips he applied more pressure causing her to open her mouth even more taking complete advantage of her na?veté. Then he slid his hand down to her upper thigh and gently lifted it up his hip while pushing himself closer to her. When she moaned, he thought he’d discovered the equivalent of gold with her unexplored passion. Not once did she hesitate or tell him to stop. However his conscience, what little of it he had, did. Slowly he lifted his head and released her thigh.
"Wow." She mouthed with her eyes still closed.
"yeah, that explains it." he searched her expression. Desire registered all over her face, "You are one very desirable woman. However, I promised you I wasn’t in a hurry so let’s take this slow. First there are some rules—"
"—rules" her eyes fluttered open and her brows rose, "Oh please tell me you’re not going to turn into some sociopath."
This caused him to laugh and ease away from her a bit. Being so close to her had him aroused enough as it was. "No, far from it. I would just like you all to myself. So rule number one—" he paused grinning, "You have to wipe that sensual look off your face, I’m having trouble concentrating." She laughed, "—where was I? Ah yes," he lifted his arm and placed it on the roll bar above and to the side of her head while leaning down and kissing her cheek, "No dating other men," he moved his head to the other side, "rule number two" he kissed the other cheek, "No looking at other men," he lifted his head, "Rule number three," he brushed his lips across her forehead and noticed that she closed her eyes against the caress this time, "No being alone with another man," Mercenary’s Conquest 43
"Those are easy rules," she breathed, "I’ve never had that problem."
"You will," he circled his hand around to the back of her neck lowering his mouth to hers again giving her another passionate kiss, "Now," he hovered his mouth above hers, "Repeat the rules—" he grinned sinfully.
"Oh I can remember." She said softly circling her arms back around his neck, "Rule number one," she lifted herself up on her tiptoes and kissed one cheek, "Rule number two," she kissed the other, "And I can’t reach your forehead because you are too tall, so I’ll take—"
He lowered his mouth to hers again circling his arm around her to pull her tight against him, "Mia you are so damn fine." He murmured against her mouth, "But I’ve got to get you home before Ted rips me a new one on Monday because I brought you home late and your father tells him."
"Understood." She smiled.
"Get in."
He wasn’t wrong about her father waiting on the porch because as the Jeep pulled up outside of the house there he was. At least he didn’t have the shotgun. "Oh oh."
"I think I’m on the hit list already." He ducked his head a bit to look under the roll bar to spot her father on the deck pacing like a German war camp guard.
"He’s just protective."
"That makes two of us." He reached over and squeezed her hand, "I won’t kiss you in front of him, so you’d better get going, because I’m really tempted and if I do, he may shoot me at the way I was kissing you earlier."
"You are probably right." She smiled, and started to get out when his hand stopped her and when she faced him again there was no mistaking the smouldering look in his eyes.
"I’ll see you tomorrow Mia." He said deeply. Lietha Wards 44
"Okay." She couldn’t contain the thrill that went through her at that deep promise and her smile turned into a ravishing grin.
"Goodnight Mia."
"Goodnight." She hopped out of the Jeep and retrieved her bag. Then giving him a final glance she walked toward the porch where her father stood with his arms crossed.
He looked at his watch, "It’s after one in the morning Mia."
"I know Dad, we were having fun."
The look on his Daughter’s face made the worry and frustration flood out of him. By the looks of it he had nothing to worry about. His eyes guided to the man in the Jeep who lifted a hand to wave before he pulled away.
"I was worried." He admitted.
"No need. He was a gentleman dad." Of course she wasn’t going to tell him that he kissed her, not to mention the intimate position they were in while he did it, because her father would definitely go off the deep end by the way he was acting.
"I’m glad to hear that." He said with an expression that read opposite.
"Don’t you have to open the diner tomorrow?" she cast him a humorous look.
"Point taken. I might be a little too over protective."
"Just a smidge." She kissed him on the cheek and walked into the house with him right behind her, "So what did you guys do? And I hope that isn’t alcohol on your breath."
"It’s beer, two bottles in nine hours under the supervision of half of Scott Springs’ police force." She started going up the stairs to her room, then turned with an exaggerated sigh and put her hands on the banister, "I am responsible dad."
He gave her a bit of a sheepish smile and held his hands Mercenary’s Conquest 45
out helplessly.
"I’m eighteen Dad, I’ll be fine." She smiled at him, "Please don’t worry. If there is anything out there that could hurt me, I’m sure after what you told me about Gage, he could handle it."
He nodded knowing darn well she was right. It’s too bad she didn’t know that he thought Gage was the biggest threat.
"Goodnight dad."
"’night honey." He watched her turn and go up the stairs. She wasn’t just happy, she was radiant. That alone should make him let her enjoy this night, but something about that guy just didn’t sit right with him.
The next day she went to work with her father and about noon Gage and Justin came in with their uniforms on as she was pouring coffee. Mia didn’t think he could possibly get any more handsome, but after knowing what kind of body his uniform contained she couldn’t help but feel excited at seeing him. It didn’t help that she remembered his mouth and hands on her either so to see him in the light of day afterwards made her feel slightly vulnerable towards him.
"Hi Mia," said Justin taking a seat by the window, but Gage removed his hat and leaned down to kiss her on the cheek. It was a small sign of affection but it was done purposely to let the other men in the diner know who she belonged to. "Sleep well?"
"I’m tired." She smiled at him, "Now sit down if you’re hungry before my father thinks I’m paying you special attention." His closeness was causing her knees to weaken and she would most definitely collapse if he kissed her or spoke her name in that husky manner that said more than ‘Hi’. Obviously he didn’t forget the kiss they shared either by the twinkle in his eyes when he erected himself. Lietha Wards 46
"I’m very hungry." He said in a tone that meant not for food.
"Shh, I know my dad is watching the both of us." Gage looked past her for a moment into the window opening to the kitchen and nodded confirming her statement, "So tell me what you want to eat."
"Well since I want what’s not on the menu, I’ll settle for a burger and fries with the works. Bring one for Justin too since I forced him to come along and nice hot coffee—Okay sweetheart?"
"I’ll get right on it." she turned while pulling out her pad and writing the order while admitting to herself that she liked the endearments he used on her.
Gage took his seat across from Justin who was tapping his fingers on the arborite. It was killing him to know how the hell Gage ended up with Mia, just as it was all of the other single men around the station.
"I gotta ask man. How the hell did you get permission to go out with Mia?"
He shrugged his large shoulders, "I asked her father."
"That simple?"
"Yeah." Gage answered studying his partner’s expression. He knew the single men at the station, especially Liam, had been lusting after her for years, but now she was his as far as he was concerned. He’d been watching her and planning his approach carefully. So far it had gone as planned, but just because she went out with him, didn’t mean that the other men didn’t suddenly feel brave and want to ask her, so he would put a stop to it immediately and stake his claim.
"You know that half of us asked her out or wanted to, but either Chief Ted or George would threaten our lives?"
"I hear the talk." Gage admitted with a smile, "Why do you think I asked her father." Mercenary’s Conquest 47
"I’ll be damned." Justin said in awe. Why didn’t anyone else think of that?
"A little bit of respect goes a long way Justin."
"So what’s the story? Is she as sweet in bed as we all think she is?" He glanced at her while she reached over the counter for something showing the curve of her bottom. When Gage didn’t answer right away he brought his attention back to him and wasn’t prepared for the menacing look in his eyes. "What?"
When he spoke his voice was calm, but not the type of calm that you would feel safe and relaxed around. It was a tone of voice that would scare the crap out of the most seasoned veteran "I’m new in town Justin, so I’m going to give you guys a grace period, but if I ever hear anyone talk about Mia like a piece of meat, I’ll bust their teeth out. Just so you know, she’s mine now and if any one of you gets some idea in their heads about her I’ll break some bones."
"Wow. I’m sorry Gage. I didn’t mean any insult, we all think she’s as sweet as hell." It was true, they all did, but being a man made other thoughts crawl into his head about her. Especially the way she looked. Mia was exotically beautiful. She had long ebony hair and gorgeous large blue eyes that a man could drown in. Her skin was naturally blemish free and soft looking and every time she smiled, lovely little dimples appeared at the corners of her mouth. Then there was this small beauty mark on her left cheek that added to her uniqueness. Remarkably, her legs were toned from years of waitressing and young, smooth and long and what he wouldn’t give to have those wrapped around him for a night. A body like that could certainly rock his world.
He was losing himself in his imagination about her again when Gage’s voice cut through.
"She is, but now she’s off limits. Understood?" his Lietha Wards 48
expression darkened in warning.
"Perfectly." He said holding his hands up in surrender just as Mia came back with their Coffees. Justin liked Gage a lot because he had that quiet strength about him that he always wanted to emanate himself, but Justin was more playful. Still he found it admirable. The man would walk in a room and seemed to have an unyielding presence of authority. It was the type of characteristic that one had to be born with, you couldn’t learn it. A couple of them made the comment that it was so much that even Teddy listened to what the man had to say and Teddy never listened to anyone.
"Sorry, brewer’s running slow." She said giving them a brilliant smile.
"No problem." Said Justin flicking a glance at Gage. Now he was wary about anything he said to Mia around the man after that possessive display. After all he was the size of a freight train and just as menacing. He’d also heard stories about the man in special ops or something like that and those threats he made him think he wouldn’t think twice about following through on them.
"What time are you done work?" Gage asked.
"Eight." She switched her gaze to Gage, "And you?"
"Nine, but I was thinking that I would like to take you out."
"I’d love it." She said enthusiastically . Then as if she realized how eager she acted, she tipped her head shyly.
She didn’t know how innocently appealing that was. He gave her a grin as a bell rang.
"That’s your lunch. I’ll be right back." She turned and went back toward the kitchen to retrieve it. As she reached for the plates her father grabbed the other side so she’d have to stop.
"What’s he want?" Mercenary’s Conquest 49
She tilted her head, "To take me out tonight. Why?"
"Tell him you have to work."
"No—Dad we’ve been over this." She gave the plates and extra tug followed by a narrow look and he released them. "Behave yourself." She chastised him, "We’ve been over this."
"I want you home at a decent hour this time." He added shooting a mistrustful look at the large man in uniform who seemed interested in something Justin had to say. It wasn’t anything outward that set him off, but Gage had the air about him that seemed to know everything was going on around him. Even now while talking to Justin, he was sure Gage knew exactly where everyone was in the diner, especially Mia. He noticed how Gage looked at her and it made him uneasy. Like letting a tomcat in a canary cage.
She turned away pretending like she didn’t hear him taking the food back to Gage and Justin. She loved her father dearly, but he was acting a little too protective. It wasn’t like him, and she really liked Gage. Her father shouldn’t worry, because Gage could have certainly done more to her last night if he wanted to, but he didn’t. She took a deep breath thinking that she almost wished he did.
"I’ll come get you tonight around nine thirty honey." Gage said as she set their meals on the table.
"I can’t wait." She mouthed to him before moving off.
"Damn." Said Justin then catching Gage’s hard stare, ‘Sorry, I can’t help it. Look at her." He gestured a hand in her direction.
"That’s my whole point, now eat your burger before I’m tempted to stuff it somewhere." He growled out.
Justin couldn’t help but grin hiding it behind the burger as he took a bite. Truthfully, if Mia had agreed to go out with him, he’d probably be just as possessive. It was no secret among the men that she was a beauty. However, after she turned Liam Lietha Wards 50
down, who used to be the best looking of the bunch until Gage came along, none of them wanted to ask her for fear of rejection. Not only that, Liam was hauled into Ted’s office and told to stay away from her. Apparently his advances were making Mia nervous and George told Ted who had been close friends for years.
As promised the jeep pulled up in front of her house at nine thirty.
"Mia where’s he taking you?" He stopped looking at her attire, "And are you seriously going to wear that?"
"I don’t know dad he never said." She turned to face her father, "Why are you being so difficult." The front doorbell rang. "Let him in Dad, I have to get my purse and please be nice to him. I really like him." She gave him a pleading look before she rushed up the stairs.
George shook his head and opened the door and let Gage in who extended his hand for a hand shake which George accepted. He had to admit, the man was loaded with manners. Still shaking his hand he just pointedly asked him, "Where are you two going."
"I thought I’d take her to Al’s." Gage answered without hesitation. It didn’t bother him in the least that Mia’s father was asking.
"Oh," he said, "That’s out on the interstate, isn’t it?"
"Yeah, Merrill and Deb, and Justin and his date are going to meet us there." He could see her father visibly relax. "George," he said, "I’ll give you my cell phone number if it makes you feel better. I promised you before I wouldn’t hurt her."
"Yeah, I know."
"I understand your concern."
He looked the large man over, "I already told you that I’d shoot you myself if she just as much as sheds one tear over you. I wasn’t kidding." He said repeating the words that he’d told Mercenary’s Conquest 51
Gage when he first came to him for permission to ask Mia out.
Gage straightened himself to his full height, "I know you weren’t." he answered seriously, "I meant what I said."
George studied the man’s expression, he did seem deadly serious and, unfortunately, not the least bit intimidated by that statement. Finally he nodded as Mia came down the stairs.
"Hi."
"Wow." He said thickly as he held out his arm not missing the flicker of disapproval from George out of the corner of his eye, "You look gorgeous." She was wearing a black knee high dress with a flared skirt that complemented her ebony hair and blue eyes. It was low cut but in a conservative style.
"Thank you." She blushed.
"Ready?"
"As I’ll ever be." She smiled and walked through the door ahead of him.
Once outside, Mia glanced back at the house to make sure the door was shut. "He read you the riot act again, didn’t he?" she couldn’t stop the worry reaching her expression.
He grinned at her and placed his hand on the small of her back, "In spades." Then he leaned down to speak in her ear, "But I’m still not discouraged, so don’t look so forlorn. It’ll take more than that to discourage me especially after looking at you in that dress."
"I’m glad." She said truthfully as he helped her into the Jeep keeping her head averted so he couldn’t see her blush.
Al’s was a roadhouse but apparently no one thought to i.d. her because she was with three cops. Once they all sat at the table Gage placed his hand across the back of her chair as Liam ordered a pitcher of ale, but Mia feeling guilty about drinking the beer the day before only ordered a coke. She was relieved that no one ribbed her over it. Gage was right, there was no pressure if she didn’t want to drink and she felt Lietha Wards 52
comfortable sitting with the group. It wasn’t too long after that they the place was rocking and Mia finally had to tell Gage that she couldn’t possibly dance anymore.
"Let’s get out of here." He wrapped his arms around her waist and bent down to speak in her ear so she could hear him over the sound of the music. "I want you all to myself anyway."
She nodded despite her nervousness of not knowing what he had planned. However, if she wasn’t wary before, she certainly was when he drove to a remote area overlooking Scott Springs to watch a meteor shower. He got out of the jeep and pulled a blanket out of the back.
"Come on Mia, this is the best way to watch it." he grinned as he spread the blanket on the ground .
Staring at the blanket she knew he intended to share with her, she was apprehensive if it really was a meteor shower but she told herself over and over again that she could trust him. "Okay." She got out of the jeep and tucked her dress under her legs as she sat down.
"No, like this." He lay down on his back and pulled her down with stacking his hands behind his head and letting her use the crook of his shoulder as a pillow. Then he chuckled as she felt a chill go through her body, "Don’t be nervous honey, I’ll behave."
She turned her head toward him, "That’s not it." What was wrong with her? She actually felt disappointed that he’d said that.
"Are you cold?"
"No."
"then what is it?"
"Well—I’m not quite sure if I want you to behave."
That brought his gaze down to hers, "Really?"
She didn’t answer.
"Mia, don’t push things. I do want you. I have from the Mercenary’s Conquest 53
first moment I saw you, but you’re not ready. If I move to fast, I’ll frighten you and that’s the last thing I want to do."
"You don’t know that Gage."
"Ah, I do." He reached up and chucked her chin, "You are too na?ve to understand, but I’m a little more experienced." She went to protest but he stopped her," However—" he grinned, "That doesn’t mean I’m not going to touch you and kiss you more just on your suggestion. Okay?"
She smiled, "all right." Then steaks of light in the dark sky caught her attention, "Oh—Wow! That’s amazing." She said.
"I agree."
When she looked at him he wasn’t looking at the sky, he was looking at her and she felt her cheeks heat up. "I need to ask you something.
"Anything." He said deeply.
"Why me?"
All expression washed from his face and he became serious, "Honey, just not knowing the answer to that question answers it." Her puzzled expression made a smile tug at the corner of his mouth.
That didn’t exactly answer her question, "Debbie says that you have hoards of women chasing you."
A deep throaty chuckle was his answer and he laid back and watched the dark sky, "that’s flattering. Maybe so Mia, but I’m not interested in anyone else."
"And—" she rotated toward him, "Why is that?"
"Who’s pushy now?" He said without looking at her, "Watch the show sweetheart."
"Chicken." She grinned and rolled back
"Not so much, but rolling your ripe little body against me makes me forget what the hell we were talking about."
This time she laughed, "I’m beginning to really like you Gage—oh look at those!" She pointed at several streaks of light Lietha Wards 54
in the dark sky.
"I’m glad you’re enjoying yourself." He said as he watched the sky again, "This meteor shower is much better than I thought it would be."
‘I could do this all night." She breathed watching another tumult of shooting starts not realizing that he was thinking of all other sorts of things he could be doing with her.
"I take it, you’ve never done this before."
"No, not like this."
"Like this?"
She tilted her head up to meet his gaze, "I mean, not lying on the ground with a man I barely know watching a meteor shower." She smiled, "Although my father is really good at picking out constellations and things like that, but I really don’t have a clue."
"I see. Speaking of your father—"
"Oh—oh, is this where you tell me you don’t want to see me anymore because my dad is to overprotective."
He didn’t miss the concern in her voice, "No, definitely not. I’ve already told you that I’m not discouraged. So quit worrying. I’ve faced worse adversaries."
She laughed, "I suppose you have."
"Now—as I was saying—your father, does he have an issue with my age?"
"He did mention something, but it wasn’t as much of a concern for him as your background." She said softly.
"My stint in the military?"
"Yes."
He adjusted his head to better look at her, "Such as?"
She shrugged slightly, "He said you have ghosts in you."
"Oh."
"do you?"
"Hmm, I can honestly say that I’ve seen some pretty Mercenary’s Conquest 55
horrific things." He paused, "I’ve also done some terrible things too Mia. I won’t lie to you."
"Have you killed people?"
"Yes." He said seriously, "And that’s all you need to know about that. However, I will tell you that I will never lay a hand on you in anger. I would never hurt you Mia. I swear."
Slowly she sat up and stared down at him, "Gage, that never even crossed my mind." She reached over and took his hand, "You are a pretty big man, but you’ve always been very gentle around me," she smiled, "And your sister seems to think the sun rises and sets on you."
He chuckled, "That’s because I spoil her rotten."
"You wouldn’t know it, she certainly doesn’t act spoiled."
"No?"
"Lisa, my best friend is indulged by her father, and sometimes she takes that for granted. Although she does admit she can be a snob and she has never treated me disrespectfully, so I never have let it bother me. Anyway, she wouldn’t even consider working for me let alone volunteering so I can have a day off."
"Lisa is Ted’s daughter." Gage stopped the frown that started. That was the young girl that had been shamelessly throwing herself at him whenever she came to the station to visit her father.
She grinned seeing his expression, "You’ve met."
"Mia—"
"Don’t worry Gage, she’s harmless." Mia absently leaned down and kissed him. It was meant to be a quick peck but his hand circled around her head and drove the kiss further. Caught totally off guard by the man’s talent with his mouth, she let herself get lost in it. In the back of her mind she could hear mewling noises and it took a moment for her to realize they came from her. Now he had her head cupped in his large hands Lietha Wards 56
to guide her mouth on his and she found herself stretching out next to him.
"God Mia, you must be the sexiest woman alive." He breathed against her mouth, "I’m trying not to touch you with all the willpower in me and one simple gesture like that shatters my resistance. We’ve got to stop."
"Gage—I—" she stuttered feeling a little foolish at starting it.
He noticed her rising blush, "Honey, don’t you dare get embarrassed. You can kiss me anytime, anywhere, but not right now. I told you before, that I wanted you badly, but this is too soon." He gently lifted her back from him and sat up.
Mia also sat straight and stared at him, "You don’t make any sense to me. I mean—look at you," she waved an arm at him, "Everything about you is perfect. You could have any woman, yet you ask me out, and you don’t take advantage of my vulnerability towards you."
He groaned, "Perfect? There’s that honesty again. Mia, I know you’re special, and I intend to treat you just like you deserve. There’s absolutely no shame in waiting. "
"You certainly aren’t like anyone I’m used to."
"Hell, I hope not." He added with an amused smile. He studied her for a moment thinking he had to get out of there or he was going to flatten her out on the blanket and bury himself in her. He forced a smile, "Come, I’ve got to get you home before your father sends out half the police force looking for us. It’s after midnight." He stood and held out his hand.
Smiling she accepted it and let him help her to her feet. Yet he didn’t move. He just stood there staring down at her with an unreadable expression. "What is it?" A slow grin spread across his face.
"On second thought—" he pulled her against him and covered her mouth with his. He felt her melt against him. One Mercenary’s Conquest 57
of his hands wrapped around her while the other slowly slid down her backside. He couldn’t ignore the fact that she felt so perfect, so soft against him. Too damn perfect. His hand curved around her derriere and he groaned against her mouth. It was no less than what he thought it would be, round perfect, and firm. Despite his forwardness with her, she didn’t protest. In fact his mouth muffled her gasp as he cupped her bottom and pulled her tight against his obvious arousal. When her arms slid around his neck, he knew he could get away with just about anything with her and thrust his tongue between her lips and caressed hers.
"Oh God—" she groaned
"Hell yeah." He answered taking her mouth again bending her back over his arm. Never in his life could he remember a woman tasting so sweet. This woman had surpassed all of his expectations so far and quite frankly he was so hot for her, he nearly forgot that she was untried. Reluctantly he released her, but she still managed to look entirely too damn sensual. Her eyes were closed and her mouth had a bit of a pout, "Christ Mia, I’m thinking if I don’t get you home in the next few minutes, I’m going to be in a lot of trouble."
She flicked open her eyes and centered them on his, "Trouble?"
He grinned, "You have no idea of the images that are swimming through my mind at this moment at the things I want to do to you."
She smiled back, "I swear you can make a nun feel desirable." This got her a deep throaty chuckle.
"Again, the honesty." He sighed heavily, "I should be arrested for what I was thinking, but then again—" his eyes guided over her, "—It would be well worth it."
"Oh dear." She said breathlessly.
He grinned, "Enough talk before I follow through on my Lietha Wards 58
thoughts." He reached down and grabbed her hand, "Let’s get you home."
George was waiting up when the jeep pulled into the drive. He had turned all the lights out and watched through the window. When Gage leaned over to the passenger seat and cupped a hand behind his daughter’s head so he could kiss her, he nearly grabbed his rifle, but he had to think of Mia. She really liked this man no matter how unsettled he felt about him. He watched as Gage chucked her under the chin before she got out of the jeep and waved at him. Quickly he rushed up the stairs to his room so she didn’t know that he watched her. He felt quite guilty at spying on her but he was genuinely concerned.
Gage pulled out of the driveway and headed back toward home when his cell phone rang.
"Gage." He said when he answered it. He paused as he listened to the voice on the other end, "Yes General. I heard you." He paused again, "She’s fine," he grinned to himself, "Very fine." He laughed this time, "Yeah I’m behaving myself. I swear to God, it would be easier to hold back the light of day than this. After this we are definitely even, especially if you knew what restraint him using and that picture you have of her doesn’t do her justice, but I’m staying close to her. George suspects something he doesn’t know exactly what." He stopped to listen again, "Yeah, I’ll keep that in mind, bye General." He flipped the phone closed and tossed it on the passenger seat. He’d meant what he said about holding back the light of day. More than anything tonight he wanted to lay her out on that blanket and make her his, but his superior would most likely cut his balls off—literally. If it wasn’t for General Thomas, and the respect he had for the man, he would have. The woman was so damn desirable that he had difficulty thinking of anything else.
The next day Mia was hanging laundry out on the clothesline when Lisa came around the back of the house. "Hi Mercenary’s Conquest 59
Lisa."
"Who’s your best friend?" she said angrily.
"What?" she said pulling a sheet aside and looking at the other woman as she put her hands on her hips and tapped her foot.
"I find out from Charlie who found out from Liam, that you are dating the hot new deputy!"
Mia studied her friend for a moment and then she saw the smile tug at the corner of her mouth before Mia realized that she was teasing her, "I don’t know if you’d say we were dating. It was only two dates and I have been very busy."
"No doubt," she laughed, finally breaking her stern composure, "A man like that would keep me busy too."
"Not like that." She quickly defended.
"Oh puh-leese. Even Miss goodie two shoes couldn’t resist that stunning hunk."
Mia rolled her eyes, "I’m not discussing this with you." However a blush still managed to make its way into her cheeks.
"Oh God! Tell me!" she grabbed Mia’s arm, "Obviously there was something from your expression."
"He did kiss me." She confessed sheepishly.
"That’s it?" she said with disappointment. "There’s nothing else, like he’s built like a Greek God and his tongue is orgasmic—"
"Why do I tell you anything?" she rolled her eyes.
Lisa giggled, "You’re crushing my fantasies."
"Go play with your own beau." She offered while picking up her laundry basket, "Geesh Lisa!"
"Been there, done that!"
"Oh God, I give up." Mia exclaimed, "You can come in as long as we don’t talk about Gage or your sex life." When she didn’t answer, Mia shot her an exasperated look causing Lisa to laugh. Lietha Wards 60
"Fine, truce. I promise." She held up her hands in surrender and followed her in the house. "But you have to tell me how he asked you out at least."
"Fine." Said Mia with a smile and relayed the first time she met him and how he asked her out.
"Wow, a man who takes charge. That’s kind of a turn on. I bet he likes to be on top—or better yet, doggy style is so hot--"
"Stop!" Mia said holding up her hand and wincing, "I can’t take this. I shouldn’t have told you anything."
Lisa only laughed not the least bit embarrassed, "Don’t knock it until you’ve tried it."
"You would think so."
"Don’t lie and tell me you don’t think about it." Lisa went to the fridge and pulled out a jug of lemonade to pour herself a glass. "Do you want one?"
"No, and maybe I do think he’s appealing but I’m worried that I’m just a passing fancy." Very very appealing, she said to herself.
"Oh," she Lisa grinned as she turned around and leaned against the counter taking a drink from her glass, "I don’t think so." Her eyes glinted as she stared at her friend over the rim.
Mia tilted her head curiously at her friend’s expression, "What do you know that you are not telling me?"
Her eyes brightened, "Well—it seems a certain Deputy Chief, not that I’m saying any names—"
"My God Lisa there’s only one!" she laughed.
"—anyway," she continued with a smiled, "This certain man has threatened every other eligible bachelor in the police station."
"You lie!" she blurted in disbelief.
"I’m not!" said Lisa in mock indignation, "Apparently he told Justin, who told Liam that Gage threatened to break his teeth if he so much as looked at you." Mercenary’s Conquest 61
Mia’s mouth hung open, "he said that?"
"Well—this is through gossip and sometimes men are worse than women in that area, but I’m sure it was pretty close along those lines." She studied her friend’s surprised expression, "One thing’s for sure, that guy has it bad for you."
Mia could barely contain the thrill that went through her. If Lisa’s information was right, then she realized that Gage really cared about her as much as she was finding herself caring about him.
"Now, we need to talk about me." Said Lisa seeing her friend’s expression. "First of all, I’m so jealous of this hottie chasing you like you’re the last morsel on earth—" that caused Mia to laugh, "—secondly, I want you to come to the party I’m holding at my house next week when my Dad and your dad go to Arizona for that food convention or whatever it’s called. Dad’s only going because he likes the golfing there and because he and George are such good friends they’re making a vacation out of it."
"Oh I totally forgot about that." Her father mentioned it to her last month.
"Another thing is bring this man of yours."
"He might be working, and I don’t know if I’ll be feeling up to it after working all day. Someone needs to cover for Dad’s absence at the diner."
"Mia, you are my best friend and I want you to come. It won’t be any fun without you." Lisa pouted.
"I’ll see. I’ll know more when the time comes."
"Fair enough, but I’m going to hound you to go."
Gage wasn’t in a good mood when he returned to the police station that afternoon. Domestic disputes always got him riled, especially when it was so close to home for him. To see a man beat the living snot out of his wife was inexcusable. Thankfully Justin was with him, because he ended up knocking Lietha Wards 62
the man flat and Justin prevented him from pounding on him even more. It was particularly rough because there was a five year old boy who had witnessed his drunken father beat the crap out of his wife.
Gage had whipped the man down on the ground like he was born to it when he had the gall to come after him with a knife. It made him feel good to put his knee on the guy’s back and cuff him telling him to stay put or he’ll do to him what he did to his wife.
"I’m charging you with assault," the man screamed from his place on the ground at Gage.
"Try it!" said Justin, "And I’ll testify that you swung first." He gave Gage a look of triumph after the man shut his mouth and looked between the two.
"You’re lucky I didn’t kill you after what you did to her." Gage said in disgust as he turned and went back into the house to talk to his wife.
The ambulance came and after the paramedics assessed her they took her to the hospital. She had a broken arm and a few busted ribs. Shortly after, Gage found the little boy hiding in the closet and called social services.
The mood he was in quickly changed when he spotted Mia coming through the door and scanning the room. Then her eyes found him and her whole face lit up. He felt himself smile back at her. She had no idea how she affected him in that moment and her presence was a godsend after today. Not only did she look stunning in a flowery summer dress, but she instantly brightened up the room. It didn’t take long for him to notice that the other men saw her too and that familiar surge of jealousy and possessiveness went through him like a light beam as they all shouted out their greetings. He wasn’t used to those feelings, but he certainly wasn’t going to question them. It was obvious this girl was special and he wasn’t about to let her go for Mercenary’s Conquest 63
anything. He watched as she shyly clasped her hands in front of her as he made his way toward her.
"Hi."
"Hi sweetheart. What do I owe the pleasure?"
She shrugged and looked around them. It seemed like everyone stopped what they were doing to stare at the both of them. She remembered what Lisa told her about Gage threatening the men and wondered if it was true. "I feel like I’m in my fourth grade play again." She was so nervous up on stage, but regardless she managed to play her part, but now it felt no different with all eyes on the two of them.
He bent his head toward her and spoke softly so no one could hear him, "You can’t blame them honey, you light up a room." She blushed in response, "Come." He said taking her hand, "We’ll talk in my office."
After he shut the door, he turned to her, "What do I owe this surprise?"
"Well—Lisa was over to the house today. She’s having a party next week and was wondering if we’d go."
"Next week?"
She nodded.
"Sit down." He said as he pulled a chair forward for her and sat on the edge of his desk, "I’ve been meaning to talk to you."
She felt dread go through her. This was it, he was going to tell her he didn’t want to see her anymore. Her heart started pounding in her chest and suddenly she felt sick to her stomach.
"Honey—" he said looking at her alarmed expression, "Don’t worry. I just wanted you to know that I’ll be out of town next week for a couple of days." He bent over and cupped her face in his large hands, "You need to quit worrying about us." His eyes searched her worried expression, "I’m in no hurry to lose you especially since I just got you." He released her and sat Lietha Wards 64
straight.
"Are you really leaving? But Ted’s gone too and—"
"Merrill’s in charge. He’s perfectly capable to mind the station for two days. Now about this party at Lisa’s. I’d prefer if you didn’t go by yourself. I’ll try and be back that day to take you." He reached for a pen and paper and scribbled something on it before he gave it to her, "this is my private mobile number. You can call me anytime I’m away."
She took the paper. "Lisa’s my best friend Gage; she already made me feel like a heel over not wanting to go." She explained.
"Mia, I’d really prefer if you didn’t go. There’ll probably be a lot of inebriated men there, and I can’t help but know that you’ll be pawed to death if I’m not around. I’m not so old to remember what those parties are like."
"Gage, I’m perfectly capable of sticking up for myself."
"Of course you are." He interjected with a quirk of his sensuous mouth, "So tell me, when was the last time you had to deal with a hoard of drunken men?"
Now she saw his point. "I’m not as na?ve as you think." She said with slight defensiveness.
"No, you’re probably more so." He said with a glint of amusement. "All I ask is that you think about it and at least call me to let me know either way. All right?"
"I suppose.’ She looked at her watch, "I’ve got to go. I told Dad I would only be a few minutes."
"In a minute." He grinned reaching down and taking her hand, jerking her up between his knees into his embrace, "I need a kiss before you leave."
She couldn’t help but give him a stunning smile, "I’m not going to argue."
"It wouldn’t do you any good anyway." He said bending his head toward hers. Mercenary’s Conquest 65
"My you are demanding." She whispered against his mouth right before it took hers. The kiss he gave her was more than a mere kiss, and it was more than demanding. It was possessive, hot, and entirely mind blowing. Her hands spanned across his muscular thighs and traced a path up his hips, over his firm abdomen and to his chest where her palms flattened against the bulge of his pectorals. His body had always been a fascination to her from the first day she saw him in his swimming shorts. It was hard earned, not one that was formed in a gym five days a week. The tan he sported told her that.
He lifted his head and stared down at her dazed expression, "Damn honey, I’m going to miss you."
"For two days." She murmured causing him to give her one of the sinful grins she’d come to love.
"Two days too long."
"Is this business?"
"Sort of, and personal." Her expression faltered and he immediately knew what she was thinking, "No, honey, it’s not a woman, there’s only one woman in my life." He brushed his mouth across hers. Trust me." Then he tenderly brushed an unruly tendril of hair off her cheek and framed her face in his hands so she’d look at him, "I’ve got what I want right here. Don’t ever worry about that."
She felt foolish for even thinking it after that affectionate display. Why the hell was she so insecure about their relationship? She had never really been insecure about much in her life, but then again, this man who consistently told her that he was attractive to her, didn’t make any sense. After all, he was gorgeous and Mia never dreamt in a million years someone like him would find her attractive. Yet she really didn’t know him all that well, and also she didn’t want to pry and ask him where he was going because again, she didn’t’ want to come across needy. "I’m sorry." Lietha Wards 66
"Don’t be." He said seriously, "I would wonder the same thing with you."
"Really?"
"Yes, now—" he affectionately patted her bottom knowing she wouldn’t protest, "You go back to work before I take the rest of the day off and drag you back to my place." Her eyes widened, "I’m tempted honey after that kiss, now go." He grinned as he released her.
"Oh, such threats." She teased as he stood up and opened the door for her. "I’m sure that sends every woman running for cover." It was just the opposite and they both knew it.
"Yeah, well, you’ll find out soon enough." He said seductively, "Now go before I change my mind. What did I tell you about teasing the carnivores?"
She laughed and left his office waving at people and cast him a final glance before going through the doors and out of sight.
"Damn." He released a long frustrated breath. He definitely had to talk to the General about her, because his willpower was crumbling to dust. In view of that, he was thankful to get out of town and meet the man in Seattle for a few days just to get away from her. Maybe he could put things into perspective if she wasn’t around. Hell, he doubted it.
The next week went slowly for both of them. Mia was putting in a long days at the diner and Gage, as usual would pop in at lunch to see her, but it was always late when she got out of there and she was exhausted. Although she still wanted to see him, he seemed to make excuses using her long days at the diner, but he still phoned her every night. On Wednesday, he left for Seattle but not before calling her and telling her that he’d hopefully be back on Friday to take her to Lisa’s party.
Mia couldn’t help but wonder if it was something Mercenary’s Conquest 67
personal to do with a woman even though he told her it wasn’t. Regardless, it almost seemed like he was avoiding her, but his phone calls told her something different. He was so affectionate and tender when he spoke to her and as far as she could tell, he wasn’t lying. Glancing up at the clock, she knew his plane was taking off from the airport and it bothered her. She felt almost empty knowing he wouldn’t be in town for a few days.