12. Jax
Chapter twelve
Jax
A n expanse of shimmering water stretched out before them, framed by the brilliant greens of the surrounding trees. Jax glanced at Mia as she took in the scene, her face awash with wonder and excitement. She turned to him, her green eyes wide.
"Jax, this lake is beautiful," she breathed, stepping onto the golden sand. She reached down, touched the surface with her hands, and then her fingers dug into the warm grains, a smile tugging at her lips. "It feels like magic.”
"Let's get closer to the water," Jax suggested, his heart swelling with happiness at seeing Mia so captivated. “I’ll race you.”
She nodded eagerly, and they raced each other down to the lake, laughter bubbling from their lips. As they reached the water's edge, they kicked off their shoes and dipped their toes into the cool liquid, grinning at each other.
"Feels amazing, doesn't it?" Jax asked, his gaze locked on Mia's beaming face.
"Absolutely," she agreed, her voice filled with awe. “And it’s surprisingly warm.”
“It is at this time of year,” replied Jax. “But it’s equally fun when you do it in the winter and freeze your tail off.”
Mia laughed. “I like my tail firmly on, thank you.”
They picked up their shoes and walked over to a quiet sandy spot not far from the shore. Jax unzipped his backpack, revealing a blanket, beach ball, and a bucket and spade he'd picked up at a roadside stand on the way. As he inflated the ball, he watched Mia spread out the blanket on the sand, creating their own little oasis. She lay down and looked dreamily up at the sky.
"Looks like we're all set," Jax said, tossing the fully inflated ball her way. Mia caught it with a grin, her green eyes sparkling in the sunlight.
"Bring it on," she challenged. “But you should know, I was on the volleyball team in my sophomore year.” She winked to let Jax know she was obviously joking.
“Always wanted to bag a volleyball superstar,” he replied, playing along.
Mia sighed. “I wish I’d done some of that normal person stuff. College. A degree. A sports team. Whatever else it is that normal people do. Ice-skating and ordering fancy coffees and making S’mores on a campfire.”
Jax smiled. “Maybe I can help you with some of that.”
“Maybe you can,” replied Mia, looking deep into his eyes. God, she was gorgeous. Every single bit of her, inside and out. He hadn’t even seen her naked—not completely naked. And honestly, what he saw at the strip club didn’t count. He wasn’t looking at her in that way back then. But it was just . . . her. Her aura. The very air that touched her. She was like fire and ice and the sun and the rain, all mingled together into one incredible human being. Someone he wanted to get to know every inch of, every atom of.
They tossed the beach ball back and forth, laughter filling the air as they dove and lunged to keep it from hitting the ground. With each successful catch, Jax felt the invisible walls around his heart crack a little more, allowing him to embrace the moment and truly enjoy Mia's company.
"So, is this what normal people do for fun?" Mia teased, sending the ball sailing toward Jax once more.
"Could be," Jax replied, catching it effortlessly. "But who wants to be normal?"
Mia laughed, and Jax could see the genuine happiness behind her eyes. It was a sight he'd never get tired of.
After throwing and catching the ball for a while, they made a ton of sandcastles. In fact, they built an entire fortress around themselves, which Mia said was “to keep the bad guys out.” Jax loved every moment of it, and he loved how easily Mia was letting out her inner Little, even when there were a bunch of other people around. He knew he shouldn’t get complacent, shouldn’t start to feel like they were safe or unwatched. But he just wanted so, so badly for Mia to have a good time. He wanted her to feel free.
He bought her an ice cream and they paddled in the lake a few more times, then finally, as the afternoon wore on, Jax knew it was time to dictate their next move.
It was time for another surprise.
"Hey, I've got something else I think you'll like," he said, his voice filled with excitement. "One of those things you mentioned. Making a campfire? Well, I actually have a tent in the trunk of the car."
"Really?" Mia's eyes lit up. "You came prepared."
He chuckled, nodding. "When I helped you escape from the club, I had to prepare to go completely off-grid for as long as it took." He scratched the back of his head, slightly embarrassed. "Guess I got sidetracked trying to make your escape as fun as possible."
"Camping will be fun too!" she said, clapping her hands together. Suddenly, she looked serious. “But only if we can make s’mores. Otherwise, count me out.”
“We’ll make s’mores,” said Jax. “And if you’re up for it . . . we’ll make more than that.” He gave her a lingering, meaningful look, the corners of his mouth curling into a sly grin. The implication hung heavy in the air, making Mia's breath hitch.
"Let's do it," she agreed, her voice hushed but eager.
After packing up their things, they left Monroe Lake behind and drove to Hoosier National Forest. The trees engulfed them, creating a sense of seclusion and tranquility that Jax knew Mia needed.
“Oh wow,” breathed Mia. “It’s like something from a fairy tale.”
The canopy of the Hoosier National Forest stretched overhead like a verdant cathedral, the leaves filtering sunlight into a living mosaic of dancing patterns on the forest floor. As they walked deeper into the woods, the air grew cool and fresh, carrying whispers of pine and earth. Mia's steps were light, her eyes wide with wonder as she took in the emerald tapestry that surrounded them.
They found the perfect spot, secluded but not so far away from the roads that they’d get lost. There was a babbling creek a little way down the hill, and they were in a clearing with flat ground that looked comfortable to sleep on.
"Alright, let's set this bad boy up," Jax declared, setting down his backpack and tent.
"Never put up a tent before. You'll have to show me how," Mia confessed, looking at the tent with a mix of curiosity and trepidation.
"No problem. The key is to take it step by step," Jax reassured her, unrolling the tent and laying out the instructions. "Here, you hold this pole while I secure it to the ground."
"Got it," Mia replied, holding the pole steady as Jax drove the stake into the earth.
They worked together until the tent stood tall and proud.
"Look at us, professional campers now," he teased.
"Thanks to you, Daddy," she said, her eyes sparkling.
The orange glow of the setting sun bathed the campsite in a warm, golden light as Jax prepared to make a fire pit. He was determined to create an atmosphere that would make Mia feel safe and secure, while also igniting the spark between them.
"Need some help with that?" Mia asked, stepping up beside him, her eyes filled with curiosity.
"Sure, little one," Jax replied, his heart swelling at her eagerness to participate. "We need more firewood. Think you can help me find some nice dry twigs and bark?"
"Absolutely, Daddy," she said, nodding enthusiastically.
They set off into the woods together, searching for dry branches and twigs that would burn well. Jax appreciated how easily Mia took to this new environment, adapting without hesitation.
“This must all be so new for you,” he said.
“Mmhmm. I used to dream of being outside. Away from the city. Free to do what I wanted.” As their hands brushed against each other while gathering wood, he felt a surge of electricity pass between them. Their eyes met.
"You think this will be enough?" Mia asked, her voice a little breathless from their unintentional touches.
"Almost," Jax answered, trying to keep his own composure. He couldn't help but sneak glances at her as they worked, admiring the way the fading sunlight caught her green eyes, making them seem almost luminescent.
"Here, this should do it," Mia said, handing Jax a bundle of branches.
"Perfect," he murmured, his gaze lingering on her just a moment longer before turning back to the fire pit.
As Jax carefully arranged the wood and kindling, he found himself lost in thoughts of Mia—her resilience, her beauty, and her vulnerability. He wanted to take care of her, protect her, and show her what true love could be.
Shit.
That was a powerful thought.
A week ago, he was glued to his computer screen, completely out of touch with real life. Now, he was here, feeling big feelings in the wilderness.
"Hey, watcha thinkin' about?" Mia's voice broke through his reverie, bringing him back to the present.
"Nothing much," Jax lied, a small smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. "Just about how great it is to be here with you. How all of a sudden, life can change entirely."
"Same here, Daddy," Mia replied.
“All it takes is something to light a spark.”
He plucked a match from the box and lit it with a satisfying fizz. As he held it to the kindling, they held each other’s gaze. It only took a moment for the heat to build and the fire to bloom.
Jax got the tent comfortable and cozy with mats and sleeping bags, then set up his simple cooking equipment and began cooking some chicken in barbecue sauce.
Mia leaned against a nearby tree, watching him with a curious gaze.
"Did you always know how to cook?" she asked, her eyes sparkling with amusement.
"Believe it or not, I used to be pretty clueless," Jax admitted, chuckling at the memory. "My brothers taught me a thing or two."
"Your brothers sound amazing," Mia said softly, her voice tinged with longing. Jax knew she missed Savannah and wished he could do more to ease her pain.
"You'll meet them soon enough," he reassured her, giving her a warm smile. "And Savannah, of course. They're all going to love you."
"Promise?" she asked, biting her lip.
"Promise," Jax replied, his heart swelling at the trust in her eyes.
As they ate their dinner, Jax couldn't help but marvel at the woman beside him. She'd been through so much, yet she still found joy in the simplest things—like the warm crackle of the fire or the tangy taste of barbecue sauce on her lips. It made him appreciate the little moments all the more.
After the chicken, they made s’mores. Jax held Mia’s hand in his, helping her toast the marshmallows evenly to get them perfect. Mia leaned against him as they held the skewer out to the fire, and Jax breathed in the smell of her, long and deep. Ginger and fire and spice. Intoxicating.
"Ready for bed?" he asked once they'd finished eating.
"Definitely," she agreed, the weariness evident in her voice.
They cleaned their teeth and washed the dishes in the creek, then Jax led the way to the tent, unzipping the entrance and gesturing for Mia to step inside. The soft glow of the lantern bathed the interior in a warm light, casting a cozy atmosphere over the small space.
"Wow, it's so intimate," Mia murmured, looking around in awe.
"Exactly what I was going for," Jax said, his voice low and husky.
Mia looked at him, as though waiting for him to say something.
“Are you okay, sweetheart? You want to go straight to sleep?”
She shook her head. “No, sir. I don’t.”
“You . . . want me to kiss you?”
She bit her lip. “I want you to everything me. But I know I’m not allowed to initiate anything, so I’m being a good girl.”
Jax smiled. “You really are. Well, in that case, Daddy’s going to give you a nice big reward.”
She grinned.
“Lie down, sweetheart, and get nice and comfy on that sleeping bag. Then close your eyes.”
Jax's heart pounded in his chest as he took in Mia's relaxed form, her eyes closed and her breaths shallow and excited.
"Babygirl," he said confidently. “I’m going to undress you now.”
Mia nodded. “Okay.”
Jax undressed her, carefully, gently, peeling off each new layer with respect and gratitude. He gave her soft kisses all over her beautiful body as he did so, letting her know how cherished she was.
“You’re a work of art,” he told her. “I’m lucky to be here with you.”
“Likewise,” she said with a smile.
"Can I kiss you?" he asked hesitantly, not wanting to push her boundaries.
Her eyes sparkled with desire, and she nodded eagerly. "Please do."
Jax leaned in, hesitating for just a moment before their lips met. The kiss was tender at first, exploring and testing the waters. But as they grew more comfortable, the passion between them bloomed like fire, their hands roaming each other's bodies like they were discovering new territory.
"God, you're beautiful," Jax murmured against her lips, feeling the heat rising between them. His fingers traced the curves of her body, delighting in the softness beneath his touch. Mia was still so thin, but somehow, her hips still had a natural curve in them, and her breasts were larger than average, so round and plump and wonderful to touch.
"Show me how much you want me, Daddy," Mia whispered, her voice laced with need.
Jax felt a primal urge surge within him, filling him with a hunger that could only be sated by claiming her completely. But it was still too soon for that. He had to show her how much he cared about her needs first. He moved down her body, peppering her skin with kisses, nibbling at her neck and collarbone.
"Tell me if you want me to stop, okay?" he murmured, kissing her stomach now, moving closer to her most sacred place. “Use your safeword, but hell, use any damn word you like to let me know if you don’t want it.”
"Please don't stop," she breathed, her voice a mix of anticipation and yearning.
As Jax went down on Mia, his tongue teased and tasted her, every flick and stroke calculated to bring her to the heights of pleasure. Her moans filled the tent, a chorus of ecstasy that fueled his own arousal.
"Fuck, Daddy," she gasped, her fingers clutching at the fabric of the sleeping bag as the waves of bliss crashed over her.
Jax continued to lavish attention on her, driven by the desire to make her feel cherished and adored. As he brought her closer and closer to the edge, he couldn't help but marvel at the trust she'd placed in him—the vulnerability that allowed them to share this intimate moment.
Jax's heartbeat roared in his ears, drowning out the sounds of the night beyond the tent. He watched Mia's face, flushed and slick with sweat, her eyes closed as she reveled in the sensations he elicited from her body. He loved the way she moved. He’d seen her moving at the club, of course, but this was different. These were the movements of real pleasure. She was writhing, bucking, arching her spine. She was taking everything she wanted from him, and he loved it.
When she finally came, she came hard . . . and loud. She dug her fingers into his shoulders, trembling like the very earth between them was shaking. And then . . . silence. Peace. A rebirth.
"Thank you, babygirl," he whispered against her skin, his voice full of reverence. "You're everything I could ever want."
"Again, Daddy," she panted, her chest heaving as she struggled to catch her breath.
"Greedy girl," he teased, but his voice held nothing but affection. He pressed a tender kiss to her forehead before trailing his lips down her throat, reveling in her shivers beneath him.
"Please, I need it," she begged, her fingers gripping his arms as he began to move once more. Jax couldn't resist her pleas, her vulnerability and trust igniting a fire inside him that demanded he give her everything she desired.
"Alright, sweetheart, just for you," he murmured, letting his tongue dance over her once more.
"Ah, fuck!" Mia cried out, her head thrown back as he licked her faster, each stroke sending her closer and closer back to that edge. She came faster this time, and although it wasn’t as loud, she seemed to tremble for a long time afterward.
"Jax,” she moaned, her speech slurred with postcoital drowsiness. “Daddy. That was the first time . . . those were the first times I ever . . .”
"Trust me," he whispered against her ear, his breath hot on her skin. "Plenty more where that came from. I could kiss you forever, my angel."
As their breaths mingled in the still air of the tent, Jax pulled Mia close, cradling her against his chest. He could feel her heart pounding beneath her ribs, a steady rhythm that matched his own.
"Darling," he whispered, pressing a kiss to her hair.
"Daddy," she replied, her voice soft and full of gratitude.
“Let’s go check something out for a second,” Jax whispered, kissing the tip of her nose.
Together, they emerged from the tent, Mia wrapped in a blanket as they stood beneath the starry night sky. For a while, they were lost in the quiet beauty of the moment. The sounds of nature surrounded them: the rustle of leaves, the distant hoot of an owl, and the steady heartbeat of the forest itself.
"Stay with me forever?" Mia asked, her voice barely audible above the whisper of the wind.
"Forever and a day, babygirl," Jax promised, his arms tightening around her, holding her close as they watched the stars dance overhead.
"Jax?" Mia's voice was soft, barely audible above the rustle of leaves and the steady rhythm of their breathing.
"Mm-hmm?"
"How . . . how do you know when you're falling in love?" Her vulnerability caught him off guard, but there was an undeniable sincerity in her words that struck a chord deep within him.
Jax's heart stuttered in his chest, a warmth spreading through him at the thought of what they'd started building together. He ran his fingers lightly along her arm, feeling the goosebumps rise beneath his touch.
"Sometimes, it's just a feeling," he began, his voice low and tender. "Like when you see a smile or hear laughter. It's like a warmth that fills you up, making everything brighter and more alive."
Mia shifted closer to him, her green eyes searching his face for any hint of insincerity. But all she found was the truth reflected in his hazel gaze. "Is that how you feel about me?"
He didn't hesitate. "Yeah, Mia. That's exactly how I feel about you."
She bit her lip, her eyes shimmering with unshed tears. "I think . . . I think that's how I feel about you, too."
Jax pulled her closer, his arms wrapping around her protectively. "You don't have to be afraid, darling. I've got you, and I'm not going anywhere."
As they returned to their tent and snuggled deep down into their sleeping bags, wrapped in each other's embrace, they let the quiet darkness envelop them. And in that moment, Jax knew without a doubt that he was falling in love with Mia Fiorelli—and he would do whatever it took to protect her and keep her safe in his arms.