Page 8 of Vengeful Pawn

“Bullshit,” I say sharply, getting to my feet and crossing my arms. “I don’t believe that for a second. I don’t know you, not enough, but I know a good man struggling with demons when I see one.”

Rising to his feet, his height should be intimidating given how far I need to look up, but I’ve had this man inside my body; I know more than he thinks I do.

“I killed children.”

The absolute torture in his tone says more than his words. He has a heartbreaking story to tell, but I’m damn sure he didn’t do it for pleasure and maybe not even by choice.

Reaching out for him, I cup his jaw in my hands and step into his body, forcing him to put his hands on me. “You’re hurting, I can see it, so I’m going to let your shocking confession go…for now. Tonight, we’re driving these girls to Sparrow House, then you’re going to take me to your home, and we’re going to have dinner, then sleep, because if I’m honest, I am having a hard time doing both of those things lately.” I don’t add that it’s partially because after only one night, I was addicted to the safety and comfort of his arms. He doesn’t need the added pressure.

“You don’t deserve my bullshit.”

“I don’t like your excuses.” He seems shocked at my defiance. “Can we just try my way, please?” Popping out my bottom lip, I work my best pout, and he caves with a curt nod.

Before I can pull away, he groans my name. “Mia?”

“Yeah.” My body buzzes from our close proximity.

“Can I kiss you again?”

The question is not what I expected.

“Yes, please.”

I meet him halfway, and our mouths clash, teeth clacking together as his tongue pushes past my lips and deep inside my mouth. Airborne, Hendrix picks me up and spins us around to lie on the bed. Careful of my belly, he doesn’t hesitate to dominate my body.

“I haven’t slept right in months because of you, princess.” His lips move down my jaw to nibble on my ear. “But thoughts of you have kept the nightmares away.” Holding my breath as he speaks, I feel a tear slide down my temple. “I need you, princess, but I’m not worthy of wanting you.” I hate that he feels that way.

Shifting my hips, I arrange my legs to wrap around his back and lift for the friction I know he’ll give me. “Hendrix,” I gasp when he grinds down into me. “More, please. I missed you.” I didn’t think it was possible to grieve for a loss I never had until seeing him today.

A loud banging on the door makes Hendrix growl into my neck, sounding like a feral animal. “Fuck off!” His shout makes me stifle a giggle when there’s another pounding.

“Get out here!” I pause at Cross’ amused tone. “Castle wants to speak with M, now.”

“Fucking pushy ass bikers,” Hendrix bitches.

“They care about me,” I try to soothe.

His eyes narrow as he stares at me. “Better not be more than that.”

I smile at his possessive tone. Hendrix isn’t nearly as resistant as he wants me to believe.

“It’s not, trust me. All these guys helped raise me; if anything, their love is brotherly concern, nothing more.” Brushing my hand up and down his jaw, Hendrix closes his eyes and turns into the touch.

“I’ll trust you, not them.”

I’ll take it.

Patting his chest, I give a little push, and he reluctantly gets up. “Come on, big guy, let me talk to my brother, and then we’ll get on the road.”

Hendrix stops before opening the door, eyes on my belly. “Can I touch it?” His voice is so quiet, like he’s afraid the question will somehow harm us. I grab his hand while lifting my shirt and place it over where I’ve felt the most fluttering. “You’re beautiful,” he says, his gaze darting to meet mine, and I offer a smile.

Releasing my hold, I wait patiently for him to get his fill before we exit the back room and head out to the bar. Castle is ina heated discussion with someone I assume is Hendrix’s father. His mom is at the bar, sipping on a drink, an amused smile on her face until she spots us.

She lights up, and I grow nervous.

“Hendrix, sweetheart, are you going to introduce us now?” She’s already reaching out a hand for me, and her eyes drop to my belly. “A baby,” she whispers.

“Sorry,” Hendrix mutters down to me. “Mom, this is MiaBella Dion; Mia, my mother, Talia, and father, Castiel.”

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