Watch Me Burn Read online

  The sound of the doorbell breaks through my thoughts. Matt must have changed his mind about dinner. Thank goodness, maybe now some of the heat will be taken off of me and placed onto my twin, one can dream anyways.

  Sadly, my plan to go unnoticed goes up in flames the moment Nathan Hayes steps into the room. What is he doing here? A chill runs down my spine as Nathan turns his predatory smile my way, his steely gray eyes narrow when I fail to return the sentiment.

  My father and Nate clasp hands while my mother fluffs her hair in an attempt to make herself more desirable.

  “My wife and I are delighted that you could join us on such short notice.”

  “It’s an honor, Senator, although I must admit I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to spend the evening with your lovely daughter.”

  Ugh, I think I just threw up in my mouth. I should have known my parents were up to no good when they insisted on this so-called family get together.

  “Kelsey, aren’t you going to say hello to our guest?” My mother prompts with a fake smile, her shiny white veneers sparkle underneath the numerous chandeliers.

  “Nope.” The word leaves my lips with a popping sound.

  “Please accept our apologizes, Mr. Hayes. Our daughter feels under the weather tonight.”

  “That’s quite alright, Mrs. Collins.” He smirks. “I find Kelsey’s shyness to be rather adorable.”

  Yup, I’m definitely going to hurl. Just as I am contemplating making my exit, my grandparent’s maid announces that dinner is ready. Wonderful, let the games begin.

  ***

  I desperately try to focus on the conversation-taking place around me, but it’s no use. I hide a yawn behind my hand as my father continues with his story. Everyone at our table seems to be enthralled with his oral play by play of his prior in-session activities. I on the other hand would love nothing more than to stab myself in the ear with my steak knife. At least then, the polished utensil would be of some use.

  “Am I boring you?” My father sneers over the rim of his scotch glass.

  “No, of course not,” I mumble. “I’m sorry I guess I’m just excited about seeing Andy tonight.” It’s not a complete lie. Andy did just return home after a weeklong sex-a-thon with her new husband Adam Stone and I’m dying to hear all about her honeymoon plus I’m in desperate need of some girl time.

  “Ah yes, I heard about Andrea’s nuptials. She married a bail enforcement agent, am I correct? I cannot believe Gary Lynch would tolerate such nonsense, but then again, he has always been soft hearted.”

  My father’s condescending laughter only fuels my rage. How dare he insult my friend and her choice in men?

  “I have to agree, Senator, Andrea has always been a sweet girl and it baffles me that she would choose to acclimate herself with the criminal elements in town. Those men are dangerous and a menace to our community. Why just the other day I saw them speeding through town on their obnoxiously loud motorcycles.” Nathan shakes his head before narrowing his gaze in my direction.

  I’m not sure why he’s giving me the stink eye, it’s not like I was out joy riding with them. Although, for whatever reason the entire town seems to be buzzing with rumors about Jamie and myself. Based on some of the scandalous stories floating around, you’d think we were celebrities or something. Honestly, I wish people would just mind their own business, but there isn’t much else to do besides gossip in this town.

  “I’ll have you know that Adam Stone is not only an amazing man, but gorgeous beyond belief. He’s smart, funny, and treats Andy like a queen. I for one could care less about what he does for a living or who his friends are,” I snap rather forcefully.

  My mother leans forward, placing her perfectly manicured hand over mine. “Oh, sweetheart, you can drop the charade. It’s obvious that Andrea has gotten herself into trouble and had to marry quickly. I’m only thankful that you haven’t found yourself in a similar situation.”

  Her lips purse together as her gaze drops to my midsection. “You may want to consider skipping dessert this evening. It appears that you have put on a few pounds,” she whispers next to my ear.

  My jaw hits the floor as my mother’s words sink in. I don’t know why I’m even surprised at her insinuation. Anger and frustration boil to the surface, but I quickly swallow it down along with a huge sip of wine. In one fell swoop, not only has my mother has managed to insult my best friend, but my self-esteem as well. I haven’t gained any weight, she’s just being petty and spiteful.

  Do not engage her! I remind myself. This isn’t the first time my mother has attempted to undermine my self-esteem. Her painful ridicule is the reason behind my short-lived eating disorder my sophomore year of high school. Thankfully, Mattie was here to put a stop to all of that nonsense.

  “Well on that note, I’m going to call it a night. Mom and Dad have a safe trip back to D.C. Oh, and Nathan—”

  The man in question appraises me with hopeful eyes.

  “—Lose my number.” With a cheeky smile plastered on my face, I grab my purse and make a hasty exit. Sheesh, thank god that’s over.

  Once outside, I breathe a sigh of relief. As I disengage the alarm of my M-6, the Ramones begin to sing from my purse.

  “Hey, girl, how was your honeymoon?” I quickly pull my phone away from my ear due to Andy’s high-pitched squealing.

  “Oh my god, Kelsey, it was amazing. I have the sexiest, most romantic husband in the world.”

  I ignore the pang of jealousy I suddenly feel.

  “That’s great, Andy. I can’t wait to hear all about it. I have class’s tomorrow morning, but we could meet for lunch afterwards.”

  “You just endured an evening with the parents from hell so if anything you are in desperate need of a drink, or five.” She has no idea.

  I glance down at my outfit. I’m wearing a red pencil dress with a thin black snakeskin belt, topped with a black blazer, and a pair of leopard print pumps. I’m a little over dressed for The Boondocks, but it will have to do.

  “I’ll be there in twenty.”

  “Kelsey! What on Earth do you think you’re doing?” Nathan demands.

  “Leaving, what does it look like?”

  “I’d say you are about to throw your life away on a biker no less. Honestly, sweetheart, we’ve all dipped our toes in the murky waters of the lesser gene pool, but summer is over.”

  Oh please, if anything Jamie is at the top of the food chain. I’d say that statement had more to do with my one night with the man standing before me.

  “Careful, councilor, your pretentiousness is showing.”

  “Perhaps,” he sneers, “but you cannot possibly believe you’ll have any sort of future with that man. Jamie Trudeau is beneath you, Kelsey, and he always will be.”

  Nathan’s concern for me is not only misplaced, but unwarranted. I’m not an idiot and I won’t allow him to manipulate me. Jamie Trudeau may be a wolf, but at least he doesn’t hide himself in sheep’s clothing.

  “You’re right, Jamie is beneath me and it’s usually when I’m riding him like he’s a Brahma bull at a rodeo.”

  The shocked expression on his face is priceless.

  In truth, my reasons for wanting to be with Jamie could go on and on, but Nathan doesn’t care about any of that. I’m nothing more than a prize, a trophy to add to his collection. He doesn’t want a woman who can think for herself, someone who knows what she wants and isn’t afraid to go after it. No, Nathan wants a classic step-ford wife and that so isn’t me.

  “Tell me, Nathan, if we were being held at gunpoint what would you do to keep me safe?”

  “What does this have to do with anything?” he scoffs.

  “Just answer the damn question.”

  “I would hand over our valuables then call the police.”

  “Ah, tough break, councilor, the correct response is, ‘I would do anything to keep you safe’. I guess it’s game over for you, but don’t worry, you won’t be going home empty handed. I have a nice parting g
ift for you.” I flash him my middle finger before turning my back on him.

  “Cute,” he sneers, “and I suppose you believe Trudeau would do anything to save you. I hate to break this to you, princess, but the more likely scenario would be that he would be the one robbing us.”

  “Whatever and don’t call me, princess.” Only one man gets to call me by that nickname. Just as Nathan opens his mouth to respond, a low, ominous growl pierces the night air.

  “What on Earth is that noise?” Nathan turns his head scanning the darkness. He won’t find anything. Not until it’s too late anyways. I suddenly jolt into action.

  “It’s a dog! Yes, probably a stray, a very hungry, angry stray, you should go back inside before it takes a bite out of you.”

  I try to maneuver Nate in the direction of the front door, but the big oaf refuses to budge.

  “Then allow me to see you safely to your car. I wouldn’t feel right leaving you here where you could be harmed. The animal could be rabid after all.”

  That comment pulls a very un-lady like snort from me. “Oh, I’m sure he’s had all of his shots. Now will you please go, Hayes, I’ll be fine.”

  “Alright, but this conversation isn’t finished.”

  Nate glances in my direction one last time before turning back toward my grandparent’s lavish home. I study his retreating form in aggravated silence. Ugh, thank god that’s over. Frustrated by the evening’s events I turn only to be startled by the very large figure leaning against the hood of my car.

  “Jesus, Jamie, what the hell are you doing here?” I snap as I try to control my rapid heartbeat. Damn him and his stealthy ways, the last thing I needed tonight was a heart attack.

  “I’m protecting what’s mine. Now explain to me what the hell you were doing out here with Hayes?”

  Stalking is more like it. “Why, you aren’t jealous are you?”

  Okay, so taunting an immortal werewolf probably isn’t the smartest thing I’ve ever done, but heaven help me I like Jamie’s possessive side.

  The smile he gives me is pure predator. “Jealous, nah not quite, homicidal, abso-fuckin-loutly, if you think I’m gonna sit around and watch you with someone else, then you have no idea what kind of man I am, princess. I. Won’t. Share. You,” he states through clinched teeth.

  Damn, I really shouldn’t find that statement to be sexy, but heaven help me I do.

  Without warning, I find myself pinned between my car and Jamie’s body, damn, I had forgotten about his superhuman speed. Desire courses throughout my body in pulsating waves. My nipples strain against the satin of my bra, they ache to be touched by his skillful hands. Jamie cups my ass with his large hands pressing my mound against his rather sizable hardness.

  Alarm bells sound in my head as his lips begin a sensual trail along my jaw toward my neck. Thoughts of stopping him hit me hard, but I quickly dismiss them as his teeth nip tenderly at the flesh behind my ear.

  “If another man so much as touches you I will drop them where they stand. Human or not, nobody touches what’s mine.” Jamie leans his forehead against mine, his lips hover mere inches from my own.

  Nervous laughter threatens to burst from my throat, but I swallow it down when I catch the dangerous glint in his dark eyes. Something tells me that he means every word. I should be angry or at the very least appalled by his statement. Instead, I’m supremely turned on. Before I can comment, Jamie leans forward, pressing his mouth against mine in a searing kiss.

  “God, Kelsey, I’ve fuckin’ missed you.” He pants against my lips.

  His tongue snakes out coaxing my lips apart to deepen our connection. My head spins as his intoxicating flavor of whisky and mint invades my mouth. I moan in pure ecstasy as my arms snake around his neck, pulling his rock hard body against mine. I can’t get enough of this man, his taste, his scent, hell; even his psychopathic tendencies turn me on.

  “You drive me fucking wild, princess— everything about you makes my blood boil. I need you in my bed, up against a wall, bent over the hood of my car, on the back of my bike. It doesn’t matter to me where it takes place, but it will happen. I WILL have you,” he growls before claiming my lips once more.

  Jamie’s sexy declaration has me feeling like I’m on top of the world. I mean, come on, what woman wouldn’t kill to hear those words come from a hot as fuck bad boy.

  Then I remember where we are, the thought of being seen together causes me to panic.

  “We shouldn’t be doing this,” I say as I push against his rock hard chest breaking our kiss.

  A look of hurt crosses Jamie’s features before morphing into anger. His hands drop away from my body releasing me from his strong embrace. I instantly mourn the loss of his touch.

  “I don’t get you, princess. One second it seems like you wanna tear my fucking clothes off with your teeth, then the next you act like you can’t stand the sight of me. Are you afraid of me? Is that it? Cause you should know by now that I’d never hurt you and I’d kill anyone that did. Or maybe you just regret spending the night with me. That would explain why you snuck out in the middle of the night.”

  A cloud of smoke fills the night air as Jamie exhales loudly. “Did being with me mean anything to you? Or was the sex purely to satisfy your curiosity about shape shifters?”

  I open my mouth to respond, but nothing comes out. The audacity of this man is astounding. How dare he accuse me of sleeping with him just because he’s a werewolf, doesn’t he know that I’ve wanted him from the moment I spotted him at the bar? Of course I’m not about to admit that little snippet of information to him.

  “First of all, I have no reason to be afraid of you. Even when you’re all snarly I know deep down you’d never hurt me. Secondly, I’m blaming our one night stand on the romantic setting and free flowing bubbly.” Thank goodness, I’m not wearing pants right now because they’d catch on fire.

  “Liar,” Jamie chuckles. “So it did mean something to you.”

  “Of course it did, you jackass!” I shout as I toss my arms in the air in exasperation.

  Jamie rubs his large hand over his Mohawk while giving me a weary expression.

  “I don’t know what type of game you’re playing with me, princess, but I don’t like it. I gave you fair warning and you chose to be with me anyways. You let me fuck you ten different ways from Sunday, all of that was kosher, but waking up next to me was some sort of crime? If you were trying to keep our relationship under wraps, I hate to burst your bubble, but everyone in the house already knows that we spent the night together.”

  “How do they know it was me? Did you tell them?”

  “I didn’t have to, it’s not like you we were exactly quiet.” He smirks.

  Well, I’m glad he finds this amusing. I on the other hand, feel like crawling underneath a rock and dying of shame.

  “God this is so humiliating.” I groan.

  “What the fuck do you have to be embarrassed about… oh wait, I get it,” he snorts, “You wanna parade around town on some rich boys arm while I stay your dirty little secret.”

  The awkward silence stretches between us as I stare at my shoes. I’m not sure how to respond to that. It’s not exactly true, but at the same time, I’m not ready to go public with our friends with benefits status. Part of me wants reassurance from Jamie that he has no interest in being with anyone else, but that would mean I’d have to come clean about my own feelings so like the coward that I am, I remain silent.

  Of course, it would help if I could stop thinking about this man every waking moment of every day. It’s like I’m under some sort of spell. Besides being able to turn into a two hundred pound wolf and having the ability to conjure fire and electricity out of thin air, Jamie is one of the sexiest men I have ever had the privilege of setting my eyes on. It’s a damn shame he also seems to be incapable of being in a committed relationship. I know I should be more concerned with the former than the latter, but it is what it is, don’t judge me.

  If I were being honest,
I’d admit that I want what our best friends have. Adam and Andy are so in love it borders on sickening. They do everything together and even when they fight, it’s with so much passion you can’t help but see the love radiating from the both of them. I don’t need hearts and flowers. I just want someone to look at me like I am their reason for living.

  “Jamie I’m…” I begin to apologize only to find myself alone in the dark. I search the area, but come up empty. Where the hell did he go?

  ***

  As I walk into the packed bar I ignore several whistles and lewd comments tossed at me by some of the regulars. For the most part the men that come here are harmless and even though it’s not very PC of me, I kinda like the attention.

  “Well, ain’t yer a sight for sore eyes.”

  I smile at the bartender as he places a shot glass in front of me. Finn McDermott is one of the hottest men I have ever met. With his sinful smile, an adorable accent, and sleek muscular body, he is every woman’s fantasy. If I weren’t so enthralled with Jamie, I wouldn’t mind taking the Irishman out for a test drive. I bet that boy could last all night. I bite my lip as my eyes roam freely over his body. Tonight he’s wearing a tight black V-neck T-shirt and a pair of jeans that hug his perfect ass.

  “Do yer see somethin’ yer like, Darlin’?” Finn places his hands on top of the counter and gives me a knowing smile.

  “The last thing you need is for me to stroke your ego, Finn. It’s not like you don’t already know that you’re smoking hot.”

  His smile turns devilish, “I’ve got somethin' else yer can stroke till yer heart’s content, luv.”

  His comeback makes me giggle, man, he’s such a flirt. I slam back my shot of Patron to stop myself from commenting further. Thankfully Andy walks into the bar a few moments later, effectively distracting me from getting myself in trouble with the sexy Irishman.

  Andy and I embrace like we haven’t seen each other in years. I continue to hold on to her even after she has released me.

  “Aww, did somebody miss me?” she teases playfully.