Chapter Four
CHAPTER FOUR
Present Day
T o let his buzz wear off and his desire cool, Nash hung out at Highrise with Trees, Laila, Zy, Tessa, Ethan, and Kane as the New Year’s Eve festivities wound down. Drinks flowed as readily as the laughter while everyone enjoyed the party vibe, swapping stories and finishing their drinks.
Nash wasn’t in the mood for any of it. His thoughts kept wandering to Haisley and the searing kiss they’d shared.
How the hell could he get through to her? Coax her into talking to him again? Find out what the hell went wrong between them?
Despite two years apart, their chemistry remained an undeniable force. No doubt about that. Two hours after their blazing kiss, Nash’s body still thrummed with insistent need, the echo of Haisley’s soft whimpers and the taste of her ripe berry lip gloss lingering on his tongue. No amount of booze or pretty, two-legged distractions could possibly dull the fever she ignited in him.
Was Haisley lying awake right now, too, replaying the feel of his hands skimming her curves? Remembering how perfectly they’d fit together?
Shortly after midnight, the crowd started thinning. Ghost and Trevor split for someplace less hip. Melancholy Charli called it a night a few minutes after Haisley’s abrupt exit. Something was up with that girl…
Trees and Laila headed for home around one to relieve their sitter. The rest of the happily married crew followed suit over the next twenty minutes.
Once Matt and Madison left, Gracelyn, Haisley’s perky brunette gal-pal, gravitated to his table and started a surprising flirtation with Kane. The team’s lone wolf eye-fucked her hard in return.
With an inward grin, Nash watched the sparks flare between the two. Kane deserved someone warm and bubbly like Gracelyn to counterbalance his stoic nature…but did she know what she was getting into? Nash had heard whispers about Kane’s proclivities, and they were all filthy. Then again, maybe under her good-girl exterior, Gracelyn liked it down and dirty. He certainly wasn’t one to judge.
About quarter till two, Ethan left arm-in-arm with a barely legal college girl he intended to sex up for the night, Kane hit the can, and Nash found himself alone with Gracelyn, who’d looked a bit tipsy. If Madison wasn’t going to talk…would one of Haisley’s other friends?
Maybe he should feel guilty for taking advantage of her inebriated state. But his need to gather intel on Haisley outweighed any qualms.
“Having a good time?”
She smiled, her eyes slightly glassy. “Yeah, I don’t usually let loose like this, but it’s been great catching up with everyone. So… what do you know about Kane? I can’t believe we’ve never met. He seems like a solid guy.”
Wow, she didn’t waste any time. Good. He couldn’t afford to, either.
“How about we tit for tat? I’ll fill you in on Kane if you tell me about Haisley.”
Her face shuttered closed. “I can’t.”
Translation: Gracelyn knew exactly what had gone down to make Haisley peace out of his life—a secret she and her girl-posse were guarding fiercely. He squashed his growing frustration. He could hardly be mad that Gracelyn was loyal. “I’m not asking for her deepest, darkest confidences, just a little info. The last time we… Well, before she left, she had an apartment downtown. But that was a couple of years ago. Where is she staying now, her late aunt’s place?”
Gracelyn hesitated, then bobbed her head. “She’s fixing up the house. She intends to live there.”
He’d ask where it was, but why waste his time with Gracelyn? Now that he knew her plans, he could easily figure out the address, along with her new phone number, on his own. “Is she…doing all right? She’s not, like, broken up or anything?”
“About her aunt? No, nothing like that. Those two were never close.”
Even though the woman had raised her? Odd…
Nash filed away that tidbit for later.
Haisley had always been so guarded when it came to her family, deflecting his questions about her parents or childhood with a skill that used to low-key frustrate him. Not enough to cause real friction. He’d learned to avoid that landmine and instead explored Haisley’s other fascinating layers.
Still, her evasiveness had bothered him, because she’d been an open book in almost every other way. God knew she’d been sexually adventurous, but their relationship hadn’t all been tie- her-up, tie-her-down fucking. Surprisingly, they’d talked—a lot. Slowly at first. But they stayed up more times than he could count until the gray light of dawn just…talking.
Inevitably, they’d become tangled in each other’s lives, their connection transcending the hook-up they’d started with. Over the months, she’d become his best friend, his lover…and the woman he’d pictured building a life beside. He’d known exactly how she felt about friends, jobs, marriage, kids, politics, religion, and more. They weren’t always aligned, and that was fine. They had similar opinions where it mattered most.
At least until he’d changed his mind about one crucial issue. Was that why she’d bolted without warning? Had Haisley found the engagement ring he’d bought for her and freaked out? The excuse she’d given him was BS, and he couldn’t think of another reason she’d run from him, fled the state, and cut off all contact for two years.
“Is Haisley…upset with me?” He couldn’t hold back the question anymore. “We didn’t get to talk much tonight. Or since she’s been back in town.”
“She’s not mad, Nash. Just…” Gracelyn sighed. “I think you two really need to have an open, honest conversation. Clear the air.”
The brunette was absolutely right. How to make that happen was a whole other question, especially since, every time he came near Haisley, all he wanted to do was drag her against his body, throw her onto his bed, and never let go.
“I intend to. I need to make her see how much I…” His desperation wasn’t Gracelyn’s problem, and he had to keep her talking. “You get it. Is she seeing anyone these days?”
“No. She dated off and on in LA, but nothing serious. She was too busy as the social media manager for a local TV station out there. Apparently, it was a twenty-four seven job, so she’s looking forward to her new gig. She’s hoping it won’t be so demanding.”
Nash breathed a sigh of relief. At least Haisley was still single.
He opened his mouth to ask more questions, but Kane emerged from the men’s room and started shouldering his way toward them with his usual quiet confidence.
Gracelyn’s stare locked on the other man like a magnet to metal.
Nash fought back a grin. “Kane is a good guy. Honorable to the core but a loner. He’s tough as nails, smart as hell, and, according to rumor, kinky as fuck. As far as I know, he’s not dating anyone. Then again, I don’t think he dates.”
She gave a long-suffering sigh and downed the last of her drink. “Another guy who just wants to hook up? I’m getting too old for that shit. When do you Peter Pans grow up and want more than empty orgasms?”
Nash couldn’t answer that question for his teammate. Kane was older so maybe never. Then again, Nash never imagined he’d want till death do us part. At least until Haisley had come along and turned all his preconceived notions upside down. “I think it takes the right woman. Give him a shot. If it’s any consolation, I’ve seen the way he’s watched you all night. I don’t know if he’s ever looked at a woman like that.”
That perked her up. “Really?”
“Really.”
Kane reached their table again and sidled close to Gracelyn with a searing glance. “Your drink is empty. Did they already shout out last call? If not, I’ll get you another.”
“They did, so I’m out of here.” Nash clapped Kane on the back, then winked her way. “Gracie-girl has had too much to drink to drive herself home.”
Gracelyn gasped. “Oh, I’m okay. I don’t need?—”
“I’ll make sure you get home safely,” Kane rumbled in a deep, gravelly voice as he slid a protective arm around her.
“Great.” Nash palmed his keys. “I’d do it, but I’m on my motorcycle. I only brought one helmet, and it’s chilly. Kane will make sure you get tucked in proper, though. Won’t you, buddy?”
His face flickered with amusement. “I got her six, man.”
“You two enjoy the rest of your night.” Nash saluted them. “Happy New Year.”
With a wave, he left the pair, feeling lighter despite his unresolved shit with Haisley. At least she was back for good. He intended to use that to his advantage and remind her every single day of the connection they shared until he wore her down and she fell into his arms again.
Striding out into the crisp night air, he pulled out his phone and quickly located her new place—a little craftsman bungalow just two point six miles from his own rental. He couldn’t resist taking a detour for some quick recon, but all the pretty blue cottage’s windows were dark and still. No car in the drive, so it was probably in the garage around back.
Nash restrained his urge to pound on her door, kiss his way between her legs, and start the new year off right. She wasn’t open to being with him again—yet. But he was determined. No more volunteering for the riskiest ops or using other women to try and fill the Haisley-shaped hole in his heart. He would win her back and slide that diamond on her finger once and for all.
As he kickstarted his bike and peeled away into the starry night, Nash felt a surge of clarity. Of purpose. For his future. All he had to do was break through her walls and coax her back into his arms…and his life. Not that she would make it easy. Haisley was one obstinate woman. Good thing he was a stubborn son of a bitch, more than ready for the sweetest battle of his life. Haisley was a prize worth sacrificing everything to reclaim.
Nash gunned his engine and headed home, vaguely wondering what was happening between Gracelyn and Kane. Maybe nothing. Maybe a one-night stand. Maybe more. After all, he and Haisley hadn’t started out as more than a scratching of their mutual itches.
That night seemed like forever ago, and he wished like hell he could go back and change so many things…
January
Three years ago
Saturday night, and Nash was fucking spending it alone. Yeah, he could go to one of the bars around town and find some temporary company, but he couldn’t muster the enthusiasm.
Because he didn’t want just anyone. He wanted Haisley Rowe. He cursed the obnoxious party guest who had drunkenly interrupted their kiss. Since that August night, he’d thought about her a lot. But life—and Haisley herself—had conspired to keep them apart.
Nash had been away protecting a senatorial candidate in DC, a paranoid internet influencer in LA, and a federal judge receiving death threats in New Orleans. Then he’d spent the holidays in West Virginia with his folks. When he’d been in Lafayette, he had glimpsed Haisley a few times since they’d locked lips—and every single time she’d invented excuses to run away like her very fine ass was on fire.
After Christmas, the first thing he’d done was hunt her down at Highrise. Goddamn if she hadn’t given him the cold shoulder again—while eating him up with those pretty blue eyes. Oh, she’d pretended to flirt with some local redneck, but she clearly hadn’t meant it because she hadn’t left with him.
And that was the real reason Nash wasn’t at a random bar tonight, getting his drink on and hitting on a more willing female. He and Haisley had unfinished business. Besides, no other woman measured up.
Fuck, he had it bad.
A knock on his apartment door interrupted Nash’s musings. He wasn’t expecting company. He was suspicious by nature, and caution had saved his ass more than once, so he tucked his SIG in his holster and slowly opened the door.
Well, well, well… Speak of the devil .
Haisley stood on his doorstep, one hand gripping an unopened bottle of whiskey, her fiery hair curled and tousled. His hungry gaze dropped, snagging on the rosy pout of her lips. His eyes nearly popped out when he took in the tiny black dress that molded to her lush curves, revealing glimpses of her creamy, toned thighs.
Damn if she didn’t look like she’d stepped straight out of his most scorching fantasies.
“Hey, hotshot.”
Her seductive murmur, along with a cocky grin, had him hard in two seconds.
“Haisley Rowe. Just who I wanted to see.” He leaned against his doorframe. “What’s up?”
“Nice to know you haven’t forgotten me.” She peeked around him, nosing into his apartment. “You alone?”
“Not anymore.” He stepped back and invited her inside with a sweep of his hand. “I got back from an op at two this morning and spent most of the day sleeping. Have a seat. Sorry the place is a mess.”
Her smile turned sly. “I heard you were back, and I didn’t come to critique your housekeeping.”
“Good. I have other, more critical skills that might interest you,” he rasped out in a low tone as she brushed past him and entered his living room.
“So you’ve told me.” She placed the bottle on the coffee table and settled herself on his sofa.
“How did you know where I live?”
“Matt is full of helpful information.”
After months of running, she’d gone out of her way to find him, dolled up, and appeared on his doorstep. Why?
Staring as if her expression would give him the answer, Nash sat in the oversized chair near her. “Remind me to thank him later. To what do I owe this pleasure?”
She nibbled her full lower lip between her teeth, batting those baby blues at him through a fringe of mascaraed lashes. “I’ve been thinking…”
“Should I be afraid?” he teased.
“Depends.” Haisley pretended to study her nails as she uncrossed and recrossed her legs, giving him a tantalizing glimpse of her soft inner thighs. “Do I scare you?”
Nash swallowed and tried to focus on their conversation. But it was too late. His thoughts had disappeared straight between her legs. “Not even a little. Maybe I should ask if you’re afraid of me.”
“Is that what you think?” She scoffed. “No.”
That’s not what Madison told me … Granted, she’d said that a couple of years back, and maybe things had changed. But Haisley’s evasive maneuvers since August backed that up. Either way, Nash wouldn’t betray Madison’s confidence. But he intended to figure out why—until now—Haisley had been reticent to even be in the same zip code, much less the same room.
Clearly, she’d come tonight for a reason. What did she want?
“You just drive me a little crazy,” she added.
“Yeah? You always drive me crazy, baby,” he drawled as his molten gaze roamed over her, slow and blatant.
“Please.” She rolled her eyes. “You were crazy long before you ever laid eyes on me.”
God, he’d missed bantering with her. Desire simmered low in his gut as she leaned closer. Her nearness and the intriguing musky-floral scent of her skin…hmm. Even being next to her felt like delicious foreplay.
Damn it, if she’d come here purely for help or information, he’d be crushed.
“You’re not wrong.” He gave her a self-deprecating grin. “But I won’t bite…unless you ask me to.”
She raised a fiery brow. “What if I was asking?”
Oh, holy shit. Her impromptu visit was a booty call? What had changed her mind?
Nash didn’t care. Whatever her reason, he was totally on board.
He swallowed hard as images of her spread out before him, her satiny skin under his lips while they lay tangled together, fucking with wild abandon, pelted his brain. He itched to grab the scrap of silky dress in his hands, rip it from her body, and explore every luscious inch of her.
But Haisley was waiting for an answer, her face rife with a hunger that matched his.
“I’m game, baby.” Somehow he resisted the urge to yank her onto his lap and see if her lush mouth still tasted as sweet as it had during the shimmering height of summer. “For you, I’ve got lots of game.”
“But there are rules.”
In bed, he always called the shots. She’d learn that quickly enough. In fact, he’d enjoy the challenge of coaxing her to submit. But for now, he entertained her. “Like?”
“I’m here for a good time, not for a long time. This happens tonight—and tonight only. I’m not interested in repeat performances, much less—god forbid—a relationship.”
Nash wasn’t interested in permanence, either. But why was she so anti-entanglement? He suspected the answer would help him solve his Haisley riddle, but that wasn't a problem for now. “Works for me. I have a strict no-strings policy. I’m down for a short-term, friends-with-benefits situationship. But I’m out on marriage, and I’m never having children.”
She frowned. “Got something against kids?”
“No.” They were adorable. “But after helping to raise five younger siblings, I feel like I’ve already been through fatherhood. I’m not looking to repeat the experience. And with my crazy schedule, I don’t need the responsibility. So no Nash Juniors for me.”
“I never had the nuclear family thing, and I turned out all right.” Haisley shrugged. “I think it’s overrated.”
Not necessarily. He had a lot of fond memories with his parents and siblings—holidays, camping trips, even playing in the sprinklers and tossing footballs. If he was looking for forever, he’d want it to look like that…minus the harried, overworked parents and the living in poverty. But he was never getting hitched or procreating, so it wasn’t an issue. “You didn’t come here to discuss your philosophy on family.”
She shook her head slowly. “I came here to make you lose your mind.”
After avoiding him for months, now she was laying it all out? What the hell was she up to?
“All right. But fair warning…” He dropped his hand on her thigh. “If you stay, you’ll be the one losing your mind.”
Her pupils flared with naked hunger. “Those are big words. How do I know you can back them up? Last time we got close… Well, let’s just say you didn’t follow through.”
“ I didn’t?” Nash raised his brow in challenge. “You jumped away from the puking chick, tucked your tail, and ran. I would have been more than happy to tear off your clothes, fill every inch of your pussy to bursting until you begged, and fucked you until you screamed my name.”
“What makes you think I would have let you?”
“You panted. You whimpered. You clung to me. Your eyes begged.”
“That’s not true.” She crossed her arms over her chest.
“We both know it is. You loved every minute of it. You were wet.”
“You can’t possibly know that.”
“I can. That night taught me exactly what you smell like when you’re aroused.”
She sucked in a sharp breath, leapt to her feet, and grabbed her bottle. “Coming here was a mistake.”
Haisley could say all she wanted that she wasn’t afraid of him, but something was spooking her. Something she’d allowed to keep them apart since meeting a few years ago. She obviously wanted to be wanted, but it was almost as if she viewed her desire for him as a weakness.
Why?
“It wasn’t.” He approached cautiously. “We’ve been circling each other for a long time. I’ve just been looking for a sign that you were ready to take this past banter and flirtation.”
“That’s why you didn’t shoot your shot? It wasn’t because…” She shifted uneasily from one foot to the other, not quite meeting his stare. “Never mind.”
“Because I didn’t want you? Is that what you thought?” Haisley didn’t answer, but the way she bit her lip and half shrugged, Nash knew he’d hit a bull’s-eye. “You were fucking wrong.”
Her gaze skittered up. For a moment, he saw her insecurity and hope. But she blinked and covered them with a brazen stare. “All right. You going to stop talking and prove it?”