Riptide Love: The Thorns, #2 z3g6c

Riptide Love

~

Melissa Combs

Riptide Love Contemporary romance novel

––––––––

Published by Crossroads Fiction 2nd © 2021 Melissa Combs 1st © 2008 Melissa Combs Edited by Lindsey Faber Cover Design by Foxling Designs

All rights reserved. The unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this copyrighted work, in whole or part, by any electronic, mechanical, or other means, is illegal and forbidden. This is a work of fiction. Characters, settings, names, and occurrences are a product of the author’s imagination and bear no resemblance to any actual person, living or dead, places or settings, and/or occurrences. Any incidences of resemblance are purely coincidental.

Table of Contents

Title Page

Copyright Page

Copyright Page

Riptide Love (The Thorns, #2)

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Also, by Melissa Combs

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

DEDICATION

––––––––

To the three most wonderful women I know. Friendship is one of the sweetest joys in life. You’ve all three enriched mine. Victoria Miller, my first lifelong friend. We met at the roller rink when we were barely teens. Angela Wight, my first bestie. I’m so glad a mutual friend introduced us back in high school. And Dana Symmonds I’m so-so fortunate you called me all those years ago in and asked if I wanted company. Friendship isn’t about who you know the longest. It’s about who walked into your life and said, “I’m here for you” and proved it! Thank you so much for being you! I love you!

Dear Reader, I must acknowledge no book gets written in a vacuum. It takes a team of people to write and produce a book. I’m grateful to have such a group around me. My youngest daughter, Aly, is a jewel for all of the social media assistance she’s given me. I’d be lost without Linda Rettstatt’s formatting skills. A special thank you to Paula the International Woman of Mystery. She’s been a goddess since I started my writing journey and continues to be so. I appreciate all the perfect strangers who connect with me daily on different social medias. Your ability to and rally around me is profound. You’re awesome! And most importantly, thank you—dear readers—for completing the writing process by allowing my characters to live for you. All the best, `Mel

Chapter One

Cairns, Australia “Ten seconds to drop zone.” The pilot gave Ethan the thumbs-up sign. Already in position, he readied himself for the dive. He ignored the knots in his stomach that never ceased to develop right before a jump. Wind blew the helicopter he sat in, while below the aircraft, waves crashed violently. They’d been damn lucky they’d already been en route when the storm got ugly. The night was expected to get worse. “Three, two, one.” The pilot cued him. Oh yeah... Bring it on. On mark, Ethan hit the water and headed toward the smoldering cruiser. Swimming as if his life hung in the balance, he cut his way through the volatile ocean. Even with fourteen years of experience in search and rescue, reaching the boat was no easy task. A lift dropped down to the water once he was clear. Once there, he located a couple clinging for their lives to the hull of the boat. “Just the two of you?” Though a distress signal had been sent out, it was unclear how many people were onboard. A fire and a storm. What a shitty night for them. “Oh Christ. We didn’t think anyone heard our call...” A wave swept over them, cutting the man off. Ethan had to fight his way back to the clinging pair. “Anyone else here?” he called over the roar of the wind. The woman’s teeth chattered. “No.” Dark hair shielded her face.

The adrenaline pumping through him sent him into action. From the look of the couple, hypothermia was a real danger. And his job wasn’t done until his arse was back in his seat. Ethan focused. One thing at a time. “I’ll get you both into the chopper.” He struggled to pull the lift he’d been dragging over. The man crowded him. “Oh Christ, let me in.” “Sheilas first.” Ethan did his best to urge the man back to the sinking cruiser. In scenes like this, women and children always took first priority unless there was an injured party. Though wet, the pair didn’t appear wounded. In more dire scenes, he took the first person he came to. Panicked, the bloke clawed at his arm. “Back off, mate!” Ethan jerked away. “I’ll knock your arse out if need be!” Too damn easy for a bloke to drown a rescuer out here. The possibility of death could send the biggest of men into a frenzy of fear. Later, the bloke more than likely wouldn’t his actions. With the storm blowing over, they were on a time clock. And you could never trust the sharks not to get hungry and come up and take a bite out of someone’s arse. He reached out his hand to the drenched woman. Once she let go of the boat’s railing, he had trouble keeping a grasp on her. The water fought against them. Going under the water, the woman cried out as she surfaced. She was of little help, yet he managed to reel her in. The churning water stole some valuable minutes as he worked to get her settled and strapped in. “Hang on. The team will do the rest,” he reassured her, though he couldn’t tell if she heard him over the gusting noise of the hovering aircraft. Away she went. The lift swayed as it drifted upward. While she was being hoisted into the chopper, he stayed close to the bloke. Twice, Mother Nature sent them hurtling into the hull of the boat. When the basket hit the water, he collected it before returning to the clinging

man. “You’re up.” Within minutes, the guy was on his way to safety. The storm turned vicious as Ethan took his turn in the lift. His teeth clenched until he climbed inside, out of the wind and downpour. Warm air circulated in the cabin as a dim light illuminated the space. He’d no sooner climbed into his spot when the man got his attention. “Thanks, mate.” The bloke huddled under blankets. Ethan nodded. The woman’s quaking caused him to turn his head to where she lay stretched out. The medic of their team had given her blankets, which covered her from neck to foot. They’d warm her up. Her face was framed by sopping dark hair as she turned his way. He sucked in a breath as their gazes caught. Huge, green, cat-like eyes stared, refusing to blink. Oh, bugger me. Ethan was first to glance away. Oh, bugger me. Rarely did he a face of someone he rescued. Never kept a tally of those he pulled from the water, of those lives he saved. No, he only ed those few he’d lost. Those were the ones who haunted his nights. Only those he lost. But he’d this night. He’d her forever. She’d come into his life like a riptide. One he hadn’t wanted to escape. The woman who’d been playing a role in his fantasies for some time now lay within his reach. He’d just pulled Denae Button from the bloody pond. A groan rumbled through his dry lips. Denae had been the reason behind the ruin of his perfect life—at least, as he’d once known it to be.

Live hard, play harder and die fast. That’d once been his motto. His days of partying were long gone. He’d no one to blame but his own bloody dumb arse. With his hand, he scrubbed the water away from his face. A heavy weight of tension worked its way into his neck and shoulders. Soon the muscles ached from far more than the seeping cold. Eyes closed to shut out the past, he curled his hands into fists. Heat knotted in his chest. Oh, bugger me. I owe De an apology. Had owed her one for a long time now. He owed a lot of people apologies. He supposed Denae would be a good place to start. He didn’t believe he had the balls or the stomach to approach the others he’d hurt. His mum. His brother. Oh, fuck. No way could he approach his brother. Not once in his life had he measured up to his big brother. Upon learning who De had belonged to... A struggle inside the cabin drew his attention. Denae fought to rip the oxygen mask from her face. Sobs racked her frame. He scrambled over to her side. “She’s fighting me.” The medic attempted to still her hands. “I know her.” He urged his teammate aside. “Easy, De. We’ll have you to a hospital in no time.” He stroked her hair back from her forehead. He put the mask back into place. For only a heartbeat, accusing eyes met his. Only a heartbeat, then she turned her head away to cry. The knots twisting his stomach could no longer be ignored. So many apologies

to give to others. Christ, I need my arse kicked.

––––––––

Denae couldn’t catch her breath as she struggled to get out of the hospital bed. How long had she slept? Her heart pounded harder than the falling rain she heard outside. She needed to get out of there. A whimper worked its way through her clenched lips. Escape. Flee. Hide. How did someone escape the past? Especially when, in a moment, the past had come full circle. Most importantly, she needed to get home to Nate. He’d probably badgered Paige to death at bedtime. Denae had never missed a story time before. She eased the separating curtain back to peek into Jack’s side of the room. “You awake?” “I am now.” Her cousin turned his head her way. “We’re supposed to rest overnight for observation.” “Not me.” She needed clothes. She discovered her damp ones and, out of Jack’s sight, slid them on. “I’ve got to get home.” With a wave of her fingers, she stepped toward the door. “Now wait a damn minute, Denae.” Jack tossed the cover off and climbed out of the bed. She ignored him. It didn’t matter how badly her body ached or how tired she felt. There was nothing left for her to do but walk out of there. The sooner the better. Besides, she was no longer hyperventilating. She was fine, and she had to get

home. “For Christ’s sake, what’s gotten into you?” Jack threw out his arms in frustration. “We nearly died. Get your arse back in that bed.” She shook her head. “No can do, mate.” She patted his chest as she ed by. She’d never forget the look that Ethan had given her. The man meant business. Had wanted to say something. But did she want to hear what he had to say? Her knees knocked together. If it wasn’t for the fear, she might. More importantly, would he want to hear what she’d have to tell him? God, if she could only turn back time. There were so many things she was sorry for. So many things she’d have done differently, handled differently... She just didn’t want to have to deal with it all now. Nothing faced today would change the choices of her past. It would only influence her future. A future she’d been cultivating for three years now. Denae swallowed over the dread. “Stay as long as you like. Me? I’m out of here. I need to get home.” Her whole world waited at home. On shaky legs, she moved to the curtained doorway, only to stop when she noticed the large, booted feet on the other side of the barrier. Those weren’t the boots of a city doctor. Nor were uniformed pants anything close to a doctor’s scrubs. “I’ve already called Paige. She’ll take care...” “Shh!” Wildly, she waved a hand. “Please keep your voice down.” No need to see who was on the other side of the room’s only exit. Ethan Thorn had not only saved her but had come to check on her welfare. I knew it! What’d I ever do to deserve this? Thunder rolled overhead, causing her to jerk. Outside the window, lightening flashed.

Okay, I take that back. God knew what she’d done. What they’d done... But time and again she’d asked for forgiveness. She had begged God to understand and forgive. And up until now, she’d thought she’d had it. Denae rushed back to Jack’s side. “I beg you...not one word.” She squeezed his arm. “Okay?” Lines of unease crossed Jack’s broad face as he looked over at the drawn curtain. “The bloke in the chopper?” Though he wore a pained expression, his voice had lowered. “What’s he to you?” “He’s just some man I once knew.” Denae moaned and let her head drop. What was she going to do? “Christ, Denae, you’re a bloody bad liar.” He shook his head. “You’re...” He trailed off as the screen opened up. Her world was crashing in on her again. All because of a habit Jack and she had. They loved being out on his cruiser. Loved spending a few hours every week on the high waves. She moaned. Why today? Why Ethan’s rescue team? Another crack of thunder rattled her chilled bones. Panic quickened her breathing. No. No. No. Not here. Not like this. “G’day.” Ethan pulled the curtain closed behind him. “Shouldn’t you two be in bed?” After shooting her a glare, Jack climbed up onto his bed, leaving her to stand alone. Goosebumps prickled her arms.

The man was as good looking as she ed him. Probably even better looking with his surfer-boy sexiness. Tall. Blond. Blue-eyed. His build lined with cut muscle. Ethan walked over to Jack to offer him his hand. “Ethan Thorn.” “Thanks a heap, mate.” Jack clasped it. “Jack Loveridge.” “All in a day’s work, mate.” After a shrug of a shoulder, Ethan turned his blue gaze her way. Dizziness made her lightheaded. She wasn’t supposed to ever see him again. Memories surfaced. Lingering kisses. Walks on the beach. Hot sex... She forced them back where they belonged. There was no changing the past. No amount of tears had helped. Nothing could be done about regrets. The remorse. A few steps brought Ethan to her side. “You holding up, luv?” Her back stiffened. The man would never change. Always so damn quick with the endearments. “My shift’s over, so I thought I’d check on you.” Ethan placed his hands behind his back. She could barely swallow from the dryness in her mouth. Shared meals. A concert. Dirty dancing. Even dirtier sex... She willed away every memory they’d created. She willed him gone from the room, her life. But in the end, Ethan still stood as tall and breathtaking as he’d ever been. “De, I’m dead set on a few minutes of your time.” Ethan folded his brawny arms. Inside Denae’s skull, a pain pulsed to life, only to intensify on another roar of thunder. Things couldn’t get any worse than they were right now. How was she going to get out of this talk? “Jack?” The curtain Ethan had stepped through only moments before was thrown back out of the way. “Oh, Jack. I couldn’t wait at home another minute.” Paige rushed to Jack’s bedside.

Denae moaned as things got worse. Only she could have such rotten luck. Nate, who Paige carried, lifted his tussled blond head from his cousin’s shoulder. “Mummy?” Little arms stretched out in Denae’s direction. Tears burned the back of her eyes as she sidestepped around where Ethan stood. “Wife, I told you we we’re fine,” Jack scolded his very pregnant missus. “De?” Ethan’s voice came out raw. “Is he... De, how old is your son?” With Nate in her arms, she glanced over her shoulder. She’d never seen a man so pale. It was on the tip of her tongue to deny everything. After all, Ethan was assuming because of Nathan’s blond hair and blue eyes he was a Thorn. “Christ, is that my brother’s son?” his throat worked. Denae closed her eyes. If only Nathan had been Miller’s son... That’d have made their lives all so much easier. “You rotten good-for-nothing pig’s arse!” Paige stormed across the room to poke at Ethan’s chest. “Nate’s yours!” Denae gasped at the outburst and quickly headed for the door. “Paige!” Jack tried to calm his wife. “Enough, woman.” God help me.

––––––––

Thankfully, because it was so late, Denae was able to slip past the nurses’ station. She turned a corner. One foot in front of the other. Then you’ll be away from this. She clutched Nate tighter. Only the heavy thud of boots followed her, but Denae ignored them. What else could she do? Surely, she didn’t have the courage to face him now. Or ever.

“Denae?” Paige got her attention. “Wait.” She was forced to slow. Paige and Jack had both been too good to her over the past few years. She owed way too much to the couple to run away from them. No matter how much she wanted to. “Let me take Natey.” Paige caught up to her. “He can sit with me and Jack while you talk with the dipstick.” Denae caught her lower lip between her teeth but released her drowsy son after a peck on his forehead. Ethan was right there at her side. Tall. Strong. Quiet. The man no longer looked ill, only pissed. “I’m so, so sorry.” Her mouth trembled, and she worked to still it. Maybe if he’d been quiet the last time they’d spoken, her life would be different. If he’d allowed her to explain things...been willing to hear her out. “I’m really sorry.” There wasn’t much more that she could say. She’d already put in overtime with God. “You want to sit down?” A tic beat fiercely in his jaw. She rubbed her arms and shrugged. It made no difference to her. Sit. Stand. Either way her stomach churned. Yes, she was sure to be sick any moment. Swallowing, she prayed for calm. She prayed to faint and miss this whole scene. No, she’d never have that kind of luck. He made no move to touch her as they located an empty waiting area. Once she claimed a chair, he sat right next to her. His legs were wide apart with his elbows braced on them. “Christ, I came here to apologize for the shitty way I treated you.” Ethan’s head hung down. “But before I can, I find out I have a son?” “I’m sorry.” Denae compressed her lips together to hold back a scream. Yes, yes, I should have told you. Had tried to tell him. Tension tightened her neck. “Do you what the last words you spoke to me were?” He straightened up and with a turn of his head, met her gaze. “You said...you said you’d better not ever see me again.” Heat flashed in her

neck. “You said...” She gulped air, trying for a calm that wasn’t there. His words had made her feel like scum. At that instant she’d became ashamed of what’d they done. She had wanted to die at that moment. But she hadn’t. Instead she’d climbed into the car he’d called for her and cried like a newborn over her stupidity. How badly she’d wanted to change things. God help her, she’d wanted Ethan. Sweat beaded her palms. Ethan had been so angry when he’d found out who her fiancé had been. So very angry. He’d acted like he hadn’t taken any part in their fling. But he’d been just as guilty as she was. “Fuck!” Ethan stood. “I bloody well know what I said! But you kept my son from me!” He raked his hands through his blond hair before he began to pace. “Luv, don’t worry...” She mocked his words from that fateful night. “That’s what you said when you discovered the condom had split.” Nausea twisted in her stomach. He’d been so sure of himself. So sure nothing would happen. “You had my son!” “You told me you’d better not ever see me again!” The tension knotted the muscles in her back. She’d been so confused. So scared. She hadn’t known what to do. If only Miller and Ethan hadn’t been brothers. As wrong as an affair was, it might have been easier to make things right. She’d have made a cleaner break from the engagement with a little less guilt. No, nothing would have lessened that. It had just been amplified because of who her fiancé had been. “Fuck!” Her teeth began to chatter. “You acted like it was entirely my fault.” “You knew my bloody name.” “Thorn is a common surname. I had no idea who you were related to.” “I have eyes the same color as my brother’s.” “Yes.” She wiped her sweaty palms on her shorts. “You’re blond too. But that’s where the resemblance stops.” Miller had been controlled steel where Ethan... Well, Ethan had stolen so much more than her breath. He’d been like the ocean

—breathtaking, fun and wild. And she’d foolishly wished for more from Ethan. “You knew I was a DES officer.” Feeling a spark of anger, she lifted her chin. “Believe it or not, Miller didn’t talk much about himself. He was a great listener, but he spoke little of his family and even less of his past.” She drew in a sharp breath. “All I knew about you was that you lived in Sydney and preferred water to land. I’d never even seen a picture of you.” “Mum’s house has pictures—” “I never visited...” Denae cut him off while tears burned the back of her eyes. An achy tightness settled under her breast. God forgive her, at one point she’d blamed Miller too. He’d been the one to encourage her to go to Sydney in the first place. There’d been no grand declaration of love. Only a “Go on, sheila. Be sure an outback life is what you want.” But even as much as she’d thought it, she knew it hadn’t been Miller’s fault. The blame rested with her and with Ethan. God knew if it hadn’t been for her time with Ethan she’d have married Miller and made both of them miserable. At least Miller hadn’t been caught in a bad relationship. The time she’d spent with Ethan had taught her—instinct told her—Miller hadn’t loved her, let alone been in love with her. But she should’ve at least spoken to Miller after...after Ethan. Instead, she’d mourned Ethan, and the loss of what might have been if life circumstances had been different. His nostrils flared. His stance reminded her of the way he’d been nearly four years ago. “You never once asked after the man I was supposed to marry.” No. Though she’d been honest about being in a relationship, the time she’d spent with Ethan in Sydney had been all about a good time. At least for him. Luv, you know you want to take a walk on the wild side before you settle down. God, she’d been an idiot. She and some girlfriends had gone to the city for her

bachelorette party. At first sight of Ethan she’d fallen in lust. The man should’ve been a supermodel with his ready smile and sexy moves. But before the night had ended, she’d known he was a bad boy and that had excited her even more. What should’ve been a weekend away turned into the best two weeks of her life. Something she had wanted to last forever. What a complete fool she’d been. Come on, luv. What the man doesn’t know won’t hurt him. The tears burned the back of her eyes again. “Christ, stop.” Ethan now stood with his back to her while he faced the window. She didn’t want to stop. For so long, she’d blamed herself for everything, but they were equally to blame. She needed to get this out. Wanted him to know how truly sorry she was. “The boy...” “Nathan. His name is Nathan.” “You named him after my father.” “I’d always favored the name.” She hadn’t been able to bring herself to name her baby Ethan. “Nathan.” He turned his head to regard her. “Nathan. He could be Miller’s.” “I doubt your brother has ever had an accident in his life.” Something close to a laugh bubbled up. How much easier her life would’ve gone had Nathan been Miller’s. But there was no chance of that. “No, Nathan isn’t Miller’s. He’s yours. I know it.” From the moment she’d suspected her pregnancy she’d known... He opened his mouth, only she stopped him. “Please let me get this over with.” Ethan nodded, causing a hank of his hair to fall over his forehead. “I tried calling Miller. I was going to tell him everything.” She compressed her lips a moment for courage, or to fight back tears she wasn’t sure. “I hung up on

him when he answered.” It’d been a stupid, foolish thing to do. But she’d been younger and scared. “He tried calling me back three times over a period of two weeks.” Tears swam in her eyes. “I just couldn’t bring myself to talk to him. I wanted to. God knows I wanted to.” She’d been a coward. “I thought you’d have talked to him by then, and I didn’t know what you’d have told him. And I couldn’t call you to ask.” With her eyes closed, she heard him exhale. “After I found out I was pregnant I called your mother’s house. Your cousin, Ace, answered...” Wet streaks burned her cheeks when she looked over at Ethan. The tic was back to beating in his jaw. “He told me no Thorn was taking calls from me and hung up without another word.” He turned away from her then. A quiver rose through her. She felt as small as she had that fateful night. “A month later, I went to your condo where I learned you’d transferred from Sydney.” She wrapped her arms around her middle. What a lonely day that’d been. “I asked around, but no one knew where you’d gone. Or if they knew, they weren’t telling me.” Ethan turned only his head her way. “Then I had to tell my parents I was expecting.” God, her mum had been so disappointed in her. Her dad so very angry. “My dad told me I was a disgrace to him for what I’d done.” How they’d both cursed at her, called her filthy names. The tears grew too hot, and they fell from beneath her lashes. “He told me to get out. So, I sought help from my cousins Jack and his wife, Paige.” Thank God for them. She’d have been lost without them. A rough sound came from Ethan’s direction, but she didn’t dare check on him. “Well.” She wiped her cheeks dry. “I’m sorry for the affair we had. And I’m so sorry for not finding some way to let you know about Nathan. But the one thing I’m not sorry for is having my son. I love him. Nate’s my world.”

Chapter Two

At De’s room he waited for her to get settled back into the bed. He checked his watch to make sure he gave her time to redress in the hospital gown and get under a sheet. Christ, he was a father. Becoming a parent should be a happy occasion no matter what the circumstances. Yet he didn’t have a clue what to do next. The muscles along his back and shoulders ached something fierce. He’d never experienced such guilt before. There was so much owed to De, Nate and Miller. His chest constricted. De had belonged to his brother before she’d been his. This moment had been stolen from Miller. His brother would’ve known what to do. How to handle the situation. No, the brother he’d spent his life looking up to would never find himself with a son he’d never known. There was so much he needed to make up for. If only he hadn’t left Sydney. He’d attempted to escape the memories of her. Of what they’d shared. Of what he’d done to her while being a complete pig’s arse. Things would’ve been different. Surely much easier on De. Fuck. He took a peek into the room and saw De in bed, Nathan tucked in beside her. Slowly, he made his way over to their side. The boy’s—his son’s—eyes were closed. He’s yours. Nathan. A lump formed in his throat. Oh, bugger me. De had named the—their boy Nathan. What bloody irony of it all. He’d left home at Miller’s urging to escape their father. He’d then fucked that same

brother over. Only to have his son named after their father. A father neither Miller nor he could stand. Someone really needed to kick his arse. At least his mum would be thrilled with the name. In her eyes, their father never did anything wrong. Well, nothing she hadn’t been able to forgive him for. Swallowing, he fixed his sight on the dark night out the window. The night wasn’t fit for anyone, but bad weather had always soothed him. While his brothers had always cursed storms because they got the cattle and sheep stirred up, he’d always reveled in them. Tonight’s was the first storm he didn’t enjoy. The first he thanked Christ to see fade away. He allowed an extra moment of study of the darkness before turning back to De. Weariness weighed down her shoulders. She rubbed at her arms as if seeking warmth. Then the night’s events came back into focus. She’d had one hell of an experience earlier. Bed and rest were what she needed now. With a shaky hand, he raked his hair back. “Bugger me. I’m damn sorry for how I treated you. For everything.” Ahead of him, he faced some of the most serious business of his life. The time had come for responsibility. And he’d wear it like a mantle. Like he should have long before now. De’s lower lip set to trembling, and she dropped her head forward in an attempt to hide her emotions from him. She pressed her face into Nathan’s head. So, he sat in the chair beside the bed. “Don’t get me wrong, I’m damn pissed right now.” Leaning over, he lifted her chin. “But not necessarily at you.” No, not at her, even as much as he wanted to be. He wanted to kick his own arse for several reasons. “Hey, you need some rest. After a good night’s sleep you’ll feel better.” “I’m not...” The small voice tore through his chest. “I’m not...an awful...person.” Ethan caressed her soft skin. “No luv, you’re not.” Christ, he’d fucked things up badly before.

“I...I just didn’t know what else...to do.” Her arms clung to Nathan. “Part of me rationalized—even if you didn’t hate me—a child would only distract you from your work. I pretended it was best you didn’t know.” He grunted. They hadn’t even been together long, and she’d spent a great deal of time on his mind. What would his life, their lives have been like had he not kicked her to the curb? If he’d had the balls to confront Miller? Abruptly, he stood. “Listen, I’m going to go outside and make a couple of calls.” Air. He needed some air to clear his head. Some time to think. To plan. Her eyes widened. “You don’t have to stay. We’ll ride home with Jack in the morning.” “Oh, I’m staying.” His teeth clenched. “Of that I’m sure.” “Okay.” She nodded and cuddled Nate closer. “I’ll be back in a few.” Ethan’s head pounded to an explosive level from the pressure of the building headache. His boots sounded against the floor with each step. When he made it through the front door, he didn’t go far. Just stepped off to the side of the entrance way. Wind rushed by but nothing fierce like earlier. The still-dark night threatened to swallow him up. Inhaling, he removed his cell, dialing Miller’s number as he brought it to his ear. “’Ello.” Miller’s rough voice came on the line. “Mate.” He listened as his brother cleared his throat. “What bloody time is it?” Wincing, he shot a glance down at his watch. “Late.” He hadn’t been thinking too clearly when he’d decided to call his brother. Up until the time he’d spent with De, Miller was who he always went to when things got bad. His brother had always been his anchor. His sounding board. He’d been his best mate. A better mate couldn’t be asked for.

Guilt constricted around his heart. Best mates didn’t do what he’d done to Miller. De had been his first... “Finally check you messages?” “Eh? No.” He hadn’t checked since early morning. A jolt hit his gut as worry set in. While he occasionally checked in to chew the fat, his brother only called when something happened. An accident. An illness. A death. Miller had been the one to tell him of their father’s ing. “Mum?” “Is fine.” Ethan released the breath he hadn’t noticed he’d been holding. His heart rate eased. “If you didn’t get my message, then why the call? You all right?” He compressed his lips. Miller also checked in if some tragedy happened and it made it to the telly. Christ, he couldn’t do this over the phone. Not to Miller. “It’s been a while. I need Travis to pick me up in Alice.” Their cousin would do just fine piloting home. “I can pick you up.” “Nah. Send the boy. He’ll get off on it.” His chest tightened. No way did he want a confrontation anywhere but at the station. He didn’t want to make this homecoming any harder on De than it had to be. “So what’s going on? Cohen and Hayleigh going to have another...” He trailed off. Nathan. Christ. He had a son. “No.” Miller was quiet a minute, causing the muscles to tense along his back and shoulders. Another moment ed. “Big M?” He urged his brother to go on. “Apparently, we have a sister.” “What?” He sucked in a breath. Oh, bugger me. The old bloody whacker hadn’t... “You okay, M? What’s going on?”

“A week ago, a sheila showed up here wanting to speak to our father. Claiming to be Claudia Rose’s daughter.” “Who the hell is Claudia Rose? You know her?” “Believe it or not, I can’t every foreigner who visits the station.” Ethan blew air out through his nose. Of course Miller couldn’t recall everyone. No one would. But maybe Miller would’ve ed this sheila more than the rest of them. “Her name is Shania Thorn Rose.” Miller snorted. “Bloody fuck.” Ethan swallowed back his own curse. “Mum?” It might destroy his mother to find this out. “Doesn’t know.” An edge entered his brother’s tone. “E, she’s as bloody blond as any of us.” “How you handling it? Where is the woman now? You didn’t...” “What? Take her up in one of my birds and push her out?” The tension aching in his back spread to his ts. “I considered it.” Miller blew out a breath. “Doc’s doing some tests. E, she’s just a kid not much older than Travis. She’s scared shitless and alone. Says her mum died.” “Could be an act.” “Bloody fuck,” Miller growled. “I’m no fool. I want you to check her out and let me know.” “You bet. Shania Thorn Rose. I’ll see what I can turn up.” “Now, with that out of the way... Why’d you call?” Oh, bugger me. “It was nothing. Like I said it’s time for a visit.” “Good.” Miller made a rough sound that might be amusement. “Because I’d like

some bloody good news for once.” He winced. “What kind of timeframe did Giese give?” “I put a rush on it, but...” “Yeah, nothing moves fast in never-never.” “That’s the bloody truth of it. Mate, I need to get some rest. Let me know when to have Travis handy.” “Thanks. And M?” “Eh?” “Take it easy.” Miller grunted before hanging up. Closing his cell, he let his head fall back so the breeze caressed his face. I’d like some bloody good news for once. “Oh, bugger me.” Christ. Miller had had one rough patch after another. A father who never let up on him. De’s splitting. The bloody drought that was taking a toll on the station. And now this... He just couldn’t wait to bring more joy into his brother’s life. Throat constricted, Ethan could barely see by the time he got to his truck. Inside the cab, he laid his head upon the steering wheel. When De hadn’t shown up to marry Miller he’d not been able to say a word to his brother about her. He’d wanted to. Had wanted to clear his conscience. But hadn’t been able to tell his brother he’d gotten naked with De. He’d not said a bloody word. Only let what he’d done to De—to Miller—eat away at him. And now he had a son. It was a time for celebrating. But the one mate he wanted to toast a pint with him the most was the one mate he couldn’t tell yet. The heat behind his eyes grew hotter. Bugger me. Christ, he had so much to make right.

––––––––

Ethan stood quietly nearby while Doctor Jenkins released De from his care. “You need anything, we’re open round the clock.” “Thanks, for everything. I can’t wait to get home.” The smile she offered the doctor sent him into a tailspin. His blood rushed south causing his prick to thicken. Christ. He’d liked her smile. Even after what she’d gone through the previous evening she was a looker. Again, his gaze drifted down her slender neck to her breasts hidden beneath the gown. His prick hardened. Damn if she hadn’t gone and gotten a boob job. How heavy those breasts would be in his palms now. Where he ed very small breasts now rested more than a mouthful. They surprised him. He hadn’t taken her for the type. As he watched, her nipples extended beneath the material. What a temptation they made as they poked out against the thin gown. With effort, he forced his gaze away. Her breasts weren’t something he should be ogling. “I completely understand.” The older man patted De’s knee and faced him with his hand extended. “And you, Thorn, watch yourself in the pond.” “Always.” He nodded and released the doc’s hand. Jenkins was a good mate. One of the most dedicated doctors he knew. He’d lost count of how many times he’d been met by Jenkins after a rescue. “G’day to you.” “And to you.” Jenkins clasped Ethan’s shoulder on the way out of the room. “Take good care of her.” “Well...” Nervously, De smoothed the cover. “You know, you don’t have to...” “I do, De.” Tired, he cleared his throat. He’d spent the night in the chair in her room once Paige had left with Nathan. “Listen, like I told Jack, I’m taking you home.” While De had been sleeping, the doctor had released Jack. Ethan had run the bloke home and arrived back to a still-sleeping De.

“I’ve got to get Nate.” “That’s fine.” He’d expected as much. “Listen, I want to spend all the time with Nathan I can.” There, he’d made his position clear. He hadn’t wanted to argue any more last night, so he had kept silent. But now that she’d had a night of rest, he couldn’t. “I have a world to catch up on with the boy.” Before his gaze, she paled. “I know. I know you do.” He folded his arms and rocked back on his heels. Christ. When would he get used to the situation? He had a son. They shared a son. And beyond the wild time they’d shared some three years ago, they knew very little about one another. This had to be handled with care. He was the one who had to take the extra step. Nothing had prepared him for this day...and he could only imagine the fear she must feel at the moment. She was about to share Nathan with a stranger. Ethan might be his father, but he was a stranger to both mum and son. “I’d better get dressed so we can get out of here.” “Sure. I’ll wait outside.” In the hallway, sweat coated his palms, and he wiped them on his pants. The muscles in his shoulders ached from stress and apprehension he didn’t understand. He had a demanding career. Tension he could cope with. But this new form confused the hell out of him. Sometime during the night as he’d watched her sleep, a lot of the anger he’d felt toward her had faded. Some anger still lingered over the lost time with Nathan. But no hate, no loathing, existed toward De. Truth was, in the early morning hours, he concluded he was pumped over the turn of events. From the moment she’d left his condo he’d never been able to get her out of his system. Had never been able to forget about her. Somehow she’d gotten in his blood. This fact unnerved him as much as it excited him. He wanted to be able to get to know De better. And now to have a son. A son was something to be proud of. To watch grow. To encourage in the decisions he made in life. Someone to carry on his name. He raked a hand through his hair in growing frustration. He didn’t know a thing about children. He could count the times on a single hand that he’d been around

Cohen’s little girls. They’d tended to giggle a lot. That was all he ed. “Ethan?” He turned to face De. She’d pulled her hair back into a ponytail. “Eh, you all set?” “Ethan...” She moistened her lower lip. “You don’t have to do this...” “Do what exactly?” Maybe he hadn’t been clear enough. “I know you have a stressful job.” She crossed her arms protectively in front of her. “A very stressful job... I don’t expect you to just jump into the role of father. You don’t owe us anything.” “Just what do you expect of me?” Teeth clenched, he took a step forward. “I’m a responsible man.” But of course she didn’t know that. Not really. After all, look at how he’d acted in the past. He’d have to work to show her that side of him. A side that hadn’t existed when she’d known him. Tension knotted in his abdomen at the rising tide of insecurity. Miller would never be in this position. His big brother would never have to prove himself to another. “I don’t know. Look, I know you are...” Again, she moistened her lip. “I’m sorry. This really isn’t the place to discuss this.” “No, it’s not.” He eyed a few of the ing nurses, sure the entire hospital staff would know his business. Before he had the chance to share it with his team, the men he worked with every day. And his family. “Come on. I’m parked outside.” As they walked out, he kept his hands to himself. He liked touching women. Had a habit of caressing them when the opportunity arose. Now was clearly a bad time to touch her. Instead, he stayed a step behind her. Not only had her breasts changed but he didn’t recall the flare in the hips. Her slim back, tapering to flared hips appealed to his baser need. Lust stirred his groin. Enjoying the sway of her heart-shaped arse, his prick filled up the front of his pants. Oh, bugger me. The lust she’d inspired in him hadn’t lessened.

Now this was insane. Desiring a woman he hadn’t seen in years. Lusting after a woman who’d had his child... Just what had she looked like with her stomach swollen as she’d carried his baby? The skin along her belly had been so sensitive to his touch, to his tongue... His balls tightened on another surge of desire. Clearly, he needed to root in the worst way. It’d been too damn long since he’d had a good fuck. Too damn long. Otherwise, he’d turned into a bloody fruit loop.

––––––––

Jitters caused Denae to jerk when Ethan shut her door. It was impossible to take her gaze from him while he proceeded around the front of the truck and climbed in the driver’s side. God, I don’t know what to say. What to do now. The man not only wanted to be a father to Nate but was projecting himself into their lives. Not that she deserved a say after what she’d done. No, she was Nate’s mother and a grownup. No matter what she’d done in the past she had a say now. She wanted this. His involvement. Had, in fact, spent many nights praying for it. What a change to her life. What a change Nate was going to go through. Still her stomach churned. It had been comparable to a frothing ocean since waking to find him still there. “Go back to sleep,” he’d encouraged her. “We’ll figure things out in the morning.” The figuring things out had her in knots. What exactly had he meant by that? Berating herself, she outlined details up to that point in her head. She’d gotten engaged to a man she’d wronged. Had an affair with the most unsuitable man in the world, who’d turned out to be her fiancé’s brother.

She’d gotten pregnant by the same unsuitable man. Had been ostracized by parents she’d never been close to. Given birth to the most fantastic son in the world. She’d managed to get a job she liked, thanks to Jack. Thanks to both Jack and Paige, she had great sitters when she needed them. She’d done her best to make sure Nate grew up happy. And now... Now she’d been saved by her baby’s father. God worked in mysterious ways, that was for sure. “You all right, luv?” She blinked, focusing on the here and now, instead of a past she couldn’t go back and change. And thanks to her son, she didn’t want to. Ethan turned in his seat to face her. “Sure.” “You’ve paled since climbing in my rig.” He regarded her for a long moment. “I swear...” The smallest of smiles curled his lips. “I’m safe to be around. Besides, if I right, on the night we met, we had alone time.” Moaning under her breath, she covered her eyes. God, she’d been so foolish back then. Little of it could be blamed on her youth or naivety. “I’m not out to cause either you or Nathan trouble.” “I know.” Denae nodded her head. She did know he meant them no harm. He just wanted to do what was right. Only she wasn’t sure how that would affect the life she’d carefully crafted for herself. She’d adjust, but the unknown gave her great apprehension. How would he fit into their lives? Instead of talking about that, she said, “I’m just hungry.” “Well then, we’ll pick up some breakfast after we collect Nathan.”

“Sounds good.” He turned the truck over and got them out on the road. “What are you doing now? Where are you working?” Ethan flashed a glance before concentrating on the road. “I’m a chef.” “I you mentioned you worked in the kitchen on your parents’ station.” “Yes.” Her parents weren’t a topic she was up to. “So...” Though she didn’t want to get into another argument she had to know. “So, Miller didn’t mention me either then? I mean last night you asked why I hadn’t put two and two together.” She swallowed. “What about you?” His knuckles tightened on the steering wheel. “No, I didn’t think so.” She sighed. “Anyway, I like my job. I work mornings on the shore.” “At a resort?” “Yeah. Cairns International. Jack helped me get the position.” “He seems like a right fine mate.” She smiled. She couldn’t stop it. Jack was the very best. A good friend when she’d needed him. “De?” “Hm?” “Listen, my brother never mentioned you to me... M’s bloody tight-lipped about most things.” He wiped a palm on his thigh before clasping the steering wheel again. “Mum was the one who told me he was engaged.” “Ah, yeah, I can see that.” No pain crushed her at the thought of Miller not mentioning her. It’d been as if the man had known they weren’t right for one another. God, there was no more kidding herself. He’d hinted as much. She just

couldn’t figure out what had stopped him from breaking off the engagement before he’d encouraged her to go away on the getaway. “Mum had been overjoyed when Big M...” “Your mum?” Denae cut him off from entertaining the possibility. “Your mum, she was...” She bit her lip, hardly wanting to call Maree pushy. But the woman had been. “Mum was what?” Blue eyes met hers for a heartbeat. “Oh, nothing.” She folded her hands in her lap. “I enjoyed her company, that’s all.” “Luv, do you what I do for a living?” “Of course, I do.” Rarely did a day go by that she hadn’t wondered if some predator hadn’t gotten him. The ocean was a dangerous place. Especially the one off their coasts. “Even in the water, I can read people.” “Oh, well.” She regarded his side profile. The man really was handsome. Perfect by today’s standards. Honestly, he was perfect by any day’s standards. “I did enjoy your mum’s company.” Maree had met her a dozen times for lunch. In actuality she’d spent more time with Maree than Miller. She and Miller hadn't had a conventional relationship. Yes, though she'd wished for a good relationship with Miller, it'd been doomed since the beginning. It hadn't taken her long to figure out Maree had been the happiest with the engagement. Too bad the woman hadn’t carried pictures around of her sons as adults. Too bad the woman had spent most of the time talking about Miller. Too bad Denae had been so hungry for someone’s companionship. God, she’d been so lonely in the outback. She had hated station life. Had hated the utter emptiness. Yes, she’d wanted the trip to Sydney so badly. “My mum what?”

She sighed; he was like a dog after a bone. It would’ve been too easy for him to just let it go. “I believe, looking back, your mum wanted me and Miller to get together more than either of us did.” He grunted. “I could be wrong, but that’s what I believe.” Sweat beaded her palms, and she clasped them as if in prayer. “I think Miller will be okay... I mean once he finds out Nate’s yours...I think he’ll be able to get over that.” That’s what she wished for anyway. For Miller to forgive them. She didn’t want anyone else to disown Nate the way her parents had. Maybe it was more of a fantasy than wishful thinking. But Miller had been accepting of a lot when she’d known him. “You might be right about Mum. She was always out to set us up.” A tic beat to life in his chiseled cheek. “But M? He’s not going to be okay with this...” He waved his fingers between them. “With us. Don’t get me wrong, my brother...he was always the one to take care of those in need. But wrong him, he’d hold a grudge.” Again another notion hit her smack dab in her chest. Miller had thought she was needy. A time or two she’d seen it, pity in his gaze when she’d talked about her parents and her life on the station. Denae forced back a moan. God, the man must have felt sorry for her. Probably hadn’t wanted to hurt her feelings. “He took care of Mum. Me and Co. He was always the first to rescue an animal and then turn around to bitch about its upkeep. So, he’ll eventually warm up to Nathan too.” He didn’t turn her way. “But me? My brother’s not going to just forgive and forget.” She sucked in a breath. “No. Miller’s a really nice man—he’ll come around.” Again she inhaled in an attempt at calmness. He had to come around. She didn’t want to come between the two brothers. Ethan shook his head. “He is a nice bloke. The first time we met my car was broken down and he stopped to help me.” A clog formed in her throat. What an utterly horrid day that’d turned out to be. Her parents had... No. Dwelling on the past was over. Only the here and now mattered.

“Many would stop to help a stranded sheila. But my brother...” He swallowed hard. “My brother can hold a grudge like nobody can.” She whimpered. Miller had to come around. It’d be impossible to cope with coming between the two brothers.

Chapter Three

Underneath the table, Ethan wiped his palms on his pants. He sat at De’s small kitchen table across from Nathan. The boy hadn’t stopped staring since they’d arrived inside the unit, while De hadn’t bothered to sit down yet. It was clear he wasn’t the only one who was nervous. What had De said to Nathan to get him to look at him this way? De had asked to collect their son by herself. She’d wanted a minute alone with the boy. And knowing women, probably a moment alone with Paige. So he’d waited out in the truck until he’d been summoned. Hell, he’d half assumed she’d taken Nathan and skipped out the back, but when she’d come out the front door carrying the boy... Well, his world would never be the same. She hadn’t run from him. And now sitting at the table across from his son, he hadn’t been this unsure of himself since the early days of his naval service when he’d been training as a swimmer. De placed a little cup in front of the boy and ruffled his hair. “Don’t stare.” Still the ankle biter didn’t blink. “Sorry, he’s not use to company.” He nodded, studying the two. What a contrast De was to Nate. Dark brown hair to his blond. Green cat-like eyes to his round blue ones. De had a full mouth with pouty lips compared to Nathan’s slash of lips. And her nose had the slightest, cute-as-hell tilt to the end. Nathan’s didn’t. As far as he saw, the boy hadn’t gotten a single feature from his mother. The little mate was a Thorn through and through. Christ. He released an almost agonizing breath. A son. What an incredible legacy. He hadn’t felt this stoked since his first rescue.

His heartbeat accelerated to pound in his ears. Nathan was an even greater responsibility. Yeah, he hadn’t forgotten his responsibility. The obligation to care for Nathan boggled his bloody mind. Just what was expected of him? His old man hadn’t been much of an example to follow with his ready fists. All that came to the forefront of his childhood memory was back-breaking work on the station. And Miller. His older brother had always found a way for him to have time to goof off. Of course that usually meant Miller did extra chores... How had De coped all this time on her own with an ankle biter? “Do you still like milk?” De got his attention. The woman ed he liked milk. Somehow something so simple unsettled him all the more. No, it was the fact he recalled she didn’t like the drink at all that got to him most. “Sure.” He gave a slight nod of his head. “Thanks.” Helpless, he watched the sway of her hips as she moved around the kitchen again. Bugger me. She had the finest arse ever. Arousal stirred hot in his blood. And her legs were just as fine. Long and sleek. Beautiful. His prick went rigid. Christ, she’d kept them wrapped around his hips... She’d been so hot for him. Would she be as hot in bed now? “Here you go.” After ing him a tall glass filled to the brim, she finally took a seat. “Eat up, tiger. The sooner you finish, the sooner I can give you a bath.” She reached over and brushed Nathan’s hair behind his ear. “Maybe we can watch some SpongeBob afterwards.” “Yeah, Mummy.” Nathan’s grin faded when he looked at Ethan again. “ I told you Ethan’s a friend of mine.” She tore Nathan’s breakfast sandwich in half. The boy turned his eyes back to his mother. “I ’member.” “He’s an emergency rescue officer. That’s neat, huh?” Again, she brushed his hair back, only to have it fall forward once more.

Nathan’s eyes brightened. “You got a gun?” De groaned. “Jack is such a bad influence.” “Eh, I do. Several.” It took work to hide the smile. “But they’re not part of my uniform.” While growing up on a station in the bush, learning to fire a gun had been mandatory. “Oh.” Nathan seemed a little deflated. “I spend most of my time in a boat or chopper. I’m a rescue swimmer.” “I like boats.” Another smile spread across the young face. “I like choppers.” Ethan grinned and regarded De. “If you think Jack’s a bad influence just wait until the Thorns spend time with Nathan.” Captivating green eyes went wide. He picked up on her trepidation. He supposed he should’ve handled the conversation another way. But Nathan was his and he had a lot to catch up on. His family needed to meet the boy. So he winked. “They’ll ruin him for life.” “Nate, eat your breakfast for me, okay?” Urgency had entered her voice. A tone he didn’t quite understand. Unless... What if she didn’t care for his family? After being a pig’s arse to her and Ace’s rudeness on the phone he could understand how she might lump them together. But hopefully soon she’d learn his family was the best. Scrutinizing her, he took in the tension in her shoulders. Her fingers were jerky as she tore a bite from her own sandwich. Nate took a bite that looked too big for his mouth. De, on the other hand, toyed with her food. Such graceful hands. How those long fingers had teasingly played over his body. Wantonly gripped his prick... He shifted on a rush of lust. Focus, mate.

“I was joshin’.” His jaw clenched, he hated not being able to read her clearly. In their short time together in the past, he’d discovered she was shy and enthusiastic. He shook it off. It’d been a while since they’d been together. Maybe he hadn’t known her as well as he’d thought. All he knew for sure was they’d sparked one another to an undeniable blaze. Sitting here, at least for him, the spark still existed. This intrigued him. De moistened her lips and dropped the bread she’d been fooling with. “My brothers are the best mates. My cousins too. Rowdy as hell, but bloody fine mates.” Nathan sat up straight. “You cussed.” “Eh.” He took in De’s tight lips. Obviously, he had a lot to learn. Even more to . No cursing. This rule would be tough to follow. “Sorry about that, little mate.” She nodded. “Will you be inviting them here then?” Absently, she brushed Nathan’s hair back after he took another big bite. Muscles along his back tensed as frustration grew. Bring his family here? “Listen, De, I’m going to go home for a visit.” He had to. Christ. He had to talk to Miller in person. And his mum. Yeah, telling them about Nathan wasn’t something he’d do over the phone. “I see.” She got up and threw her food away. “Tiger, finish up so we can get you your bath.” “Do you?” He abandoned his own meal to her at the sink. “Listen, De. I’m going home, and I want to take Nathan with me.” He back peddled. That’d come out wrong. “I meant...” “Mummy?” Green eyes blazed when she turned her gaze on Ethan. “You’re not...” “Will you wait a sec?” Sweat dampened his palms. “Listen, I want you to come too.” She had to travel with him. He’d not have a clue how to care for the boy

alone. Though his family would step in if he screwed something up. “Oh...” “I want us to introduce Nathan to my family. It’s time.” He invaded her personal space. “Long past time the Thorns met him. You’ve got to know that.” Long lashes lowered as she glanced down before moving slightly away from his body. Ethan turned away to grasp the counter in both hands. Nathan no longer ate but stared. De brushed by him to move to the table. “You all done, tiger?” At his nod, she picked him up. “Is SpongeBob on?” “Not yet, I want to get you cleaned up first.” She cradled Nathan close. “We’ll talk in a few minutes.” “Sure, listen.” He moved in their direction. “I thought, if you don’t mind, we could hang out at the beach?” Nathan’s head came up with a big smile in place. “I like the beach.” “I’ve got the day off.” He focused on his son. “Would you like that, Nate?” For the first time he used the nickname De had given him. “Mummy.” Nate caressed her cheek to get her attention. “I like the beach.” “All right.” She agreed, not looking the least bit happy about doing so. He sighed. Dammit. He supposed he needed to discuss things with her first. “I’ve got to get cleaned up myself. How about I pick you up in two hours?” “I guess we’ll be ready then, won’t we, tiger?” She kissed the boy on the forehead. Their son still grinned.

“Hooroo, Nate.” A tightness settled in his chest. Damn it if he didn’t want to stay. What if she took off? Sure, he’d be able to track her down, he had the resources, but still. He didn’t like the idea of leaving them so soon. “G’day.” Nate waved. Ethan grinned. “De...” “You’re welcome to finish your breakfast. I’ve got to get Nate cleaned up to face the day.” Nate’s arms clung to De’s neck. “I don’t like baths, Mummy.” Lashes lowered, she turned away. Left alone, he didn’t have an appetite, so he tossed his meal. And made sure the door locked behind him when he left. At his truck, he turned back to the flat. The constriction in his chest intensified. He hated the thought of leaving Nate so soon after their first long meeting. Hated it. He glanced into the back seat of his truck to the booster seat De had put Nate in. The sight eased the discomfort somewhat. But not enough. He’d hurry back. He had to. There were three-plus years to make up for.

––––––––

Denae was spazzing out. Worse, she shouldn’t be this upset. A trip to the beach was no big deal. Only it was. An outing she and Nate had made dozens of times had already knotted her stomach. She shook her hands out to her side, trying to get rid of the jitters. This is crazy. She needed to calm down.

Ethan Thorn had invited them out for the afternoon. No big deal. Wasn’t like he’d invited them for forever. Still, her pulse didn’t slow. The churning in her stomach threatened to send her rushing to the bathroom. Taking Nate to the beach was far different than hanging out with a man. A man who was quite literally perfect. Closing her eyes, she pictured him standing there. Steady blue eyes, quick to lighten in amusement. So tall with shoulders made for clinging. His blond head always held so proudly. So confident in himself. Liquid heat simmered in her core. Arousal sent her blood surging. It heated her skin. Swelled in her breasts. Oh yes, Ethan was all male. Only, she shouldn’t think about that. He was Nate’s father. That was the only thing she should . Whatever they’d shared was over and done. Had been for a long time. Other than Jack, she hadn’t spent any time with another male besides Nate since... Well, since Ethan had told her to get lost. God, how he must hate her with his every breath. He was only out to do what was right by Nate. And that was what was important. Making things right for her baby. Their son. The doorbell rang causing her to jerk. “Nate, I’m coming!” she called out, not wanting her baby to head for the door. Even though it was most likely Paige. She’d called her friend for as soon as Ethan had left. Paige was supposed to meet them at the beach in another hour but knowing the woman, Paige probably wanted to prep her. Although Denae had explained everything in detail, Paige was no fan of Ethan’s.

As she ed by, she saw that Nate hadn’t moved from his spot in front of the telly. God, he loved SpongeBob, while she thought the show the silliest thing ever. She pulled the front door open to find Ethan already there. “You’re early,” she accused, then wished she could pull back the words. “I am.” He smiled. A quiver raced along her spine. Even now, she ed how easily he smiled. And the sweet things that smile did to her. Amazingly, the man had gotten better looking in the last few years. Downright dreamy to look at. Not her though. She’d gotten ugly in their time apart. And she had the stretch marks on her lower stomach and hips to prove it. What they said about men aging well was true. Ethan Thorn was picture proof of that. “You gonna invite me in, luv?” She stiffened. But forced herself to relax. It was just his way. She needed to get used to it. Needed to get through this day for Nate. It was clear—at least for the moment—Ethan wanted to be part of Nate’s life. For her son, she’d deal with the silly names he used out of habit. Her son needed to know his father. For him, she could do this. “Nate’s in front of the telly.” She waved him in. “I still need to change.” “He watching SpongeBob?” “Yeah, he loves the silly show.” “I’ve watched it a few times in the rec room down at the station.” Picturing some of Aussie’s finest watching the show, she shook her head. Blokes, with their video games and cartoons. Instead of going into the living room where Nate sat, he followed her to the

hallway. “Did you think about the trip? Are you up for it?” “I don’t think I have a choice.” She didn’t. Not when it came right down to it. She owed Nate this time with his family. He needed to get to know them. To make up for the lost time he’d not had with them. “Not really.” He turned to his side as if not to dominate her. “Listen, I don’t want to come across as a pig’s arse, but I want my family to meet Nate. And I don’t want to wait to do it.” “I know.” She did understand. “I know your family needs to get to know him.” She bit her lip and closed her eyes. God, she didn’t want to have to go back home and face everyone. I’m such a coward. Please give me strength to get through this trip. Opening her eyes, she met his steady gaze. “I know. I’m fine with it. I’ll go. Nate will be thrilled at being on a plane.” Most importantly, Nate deserved to meet his grandmother. Maree would love him. Pressure built under her breasts as her shoulders slumped. It was as if a weight landed on them. The guilt returned in full force. God, she’d thought she’d die from the feeling in the past. Didn’t want to cope with more of the emotion now. She’d wronged a great many people by some foolish decisions. Sorry just didn’t seem enough. “You all right, luv?” “Yeah, but you should know I’m not welcome at my parents’.” She compressed her mouth so she wouldn’t say more. Spill every detail of her past. It wasn’t just that she wasn’t welcome. She had no desire to have her baby around her parents. After months of being on her own, along with the guidance of Paige’s minister, she’d finally realized that she’d grown up in a very unhealthy environment. One she didn’t want her son to be any part of. She’d made so many mistakes in her life trying to escape the madness of her parents’ web. Nate was a good boy. And she’d never allow anyone to tell him differently just because of the circumstances of his birth.

“No worries, luv. I know you and Nate will be welcome at my mum’s.” “And Miller?” “Miller...” He shook his head. “Might wind up in a bunk house.” For the first time, he didn’t meet her gaze. “Or he can always crash at Co’s or at Ace’s.” “Ace, your cousin?” “Yeah, that’s right.” So, she was going to run the only man who’d been nice to her out of his own home. Her hand went to her stomach at the sudden churning. God, if I’d only had the courage to talk to him... Stop this. You cannot change the past. Only make up for what you can. This is a start. “Mummy?” Nate stood at the archway to the living room. “SpongeBob over?” A smile spread across her lips. “Can I watch it again?” He nodded, causing his hair to fall forward over his brow. “I like SpongeBob.” “I know you do.” She laughed. “Sure. Ethan likes SpongeBob too.” “I didn’t exactly say that...” She lifted a shoulder in shrug. “Think you can start the show over for him?” “You bet, luv.” He made his way over to her son. Their son. She had to get used to this. This sharing business. But was there a need? Was she just opening up her baby for heartache? The uncertainty of the future would drive her to distraction. Denae barely got her bedroom door closed before tears overflowed her lowered eyelids. Tonight, she’d talk to her baby about daddies, and she’d tell him that Ethan was his.

––––––––

Ethan sat in the beach chair and watched De play with Nate in the surf. The boy wanted to go in deeper, but De wouldn’t let him in past his knees. Ethan kept a keen eye on the water. For the second time in his life, he was uncertain. It didn’t matter that they were on a beach with life-savers, or clearly within the safety flags. Even at the beach’s edge, Nate was small compared to the crashing waves. He knew how dangerous that water could be. Christ, he doubted the boy was able to swim yet. Hand in hand, the pair splashed in the shallows. He eyeballed De’s arse again. Lust stirred, thickening his prick. Enjoying the feeling of arousal as much as he did the view, he studied her figure. De wore a two-piece. Only it wasn’t like the two-piece he recalled from their past. Back then, she’d worn the tiniest string bikini ever. One he’d used his teeth to untie. He shifted as his semi-erection went wood stiff. The old flame he’d had for her hadn’t gone out. Hadn’t extinguished. He was in bloody trouble. She’d visited him quite regularly in his dreams. He’d assumed the fantasies had been born out of the guilt he’d felt about his treatment of her. But not so. Much more was going on. His gaze lingered over her curves hidden beneath the material. The two-piece she wore now covered a great deal more skin. Though how the top separated from the waistband of the shorts caused him to salivate. He wanted to explore the exposed inch or two of skin. The way she’d pull it back down into place made him even hotter.

“I see someone is getting himself an eyeful.” Ethan glanced up to see Paige standing at his side. “Found us, huh?” When De had mentioned her cousin planned to them later, he’d wished for more alone time instead. “I just looked for the biggest flea on the beach.” The woman smirked. Ethan ground his teeth together. He wouldn’t get into an insult match with a woman. Though he’d enjoyed many in the past with his brothers and cousins. Abruptly, Nate broke away from De to race up to Paige. He threw his little arms around her legs. “Paige.” “G’day to you too, Nate.” She rubbed the boy’s head. “Did you save me some lunch? You know I’m eating for two.” Nate laughed. “Mummy made us wait.” “Hey, I brought a small cooler and radio.” Paige waved in the direction of the parking lot. She eased out of Nate’s embrace. “Maybe you can show the buffoon here to my car? We can’t sit here without music.” He purposely allowed his gaze to bore into Paige’s. “Paige, not in front of Nate.” De shook her head. Amazingly, he kept his mouth shut. Though he understood somewhat why the woman disliked him so much. But he wouldn’t be able to put up with too many insults in front of Nate. “What’d I do?” Paige’s smirk was back in place. “What’s buffoon?” Nate looked questioningly from De to Paige. De opened her mouth, but Paige beat her to it. “It’s a big monkey.” At the insult he brought his hands up to rest on his hips. Christ, the sheila was

pushing it... Nate made a face. “Ethan’s not a monkey.” “Paige...” De spread out a beach blanket. “Nate, think you can show Ethan to Paige’s car?” “Yes, Mummy.” The boy nodded excitedly. “Keep hold of his hand, all right?” Ethan swallowed before reaching out for the boy’s small hand. Christ it was small. And soft. He clasped it gently with his fingers as they walked along. Along the edge of the pavement, he urged the boy to a stop. Over his shoulder, he saw De help Paige down. Within seconds, the two women were engaged in conversation. He gazed down at Nate. “So, what kind of car are we looking for?” “A red car.” Glancing around, he counted eight vehicles in different shades of red. That was helpful. “Anything else?” “Uh-huh, it’s Paige’s car.” Ethan smiled. “Okay, then.” Now, he knew why he had Nate with him. The women would have plenty of time to talk. He ran his free hand through his hair. He wasn’t sure if leaving the two alone was a good idea. Would De smooth things over with Paige? “Is it a truck?” “It’s a red car.” Nate shuffled a rock under his toe. They were now down to six choices. Why he hadn’t asked after the car’s make and model before he’d left the beach, he’d never know. He smiled at his own idiocy. Dealing with an ankle biter was real work. And the women had known what he was in for. “Is the car big or small?”

Nate appeared puzzled. “All cars are big.” “Yeah, yeah.” Of course to a three-year-old they were all big. “So which one do you think is Paige’s?” He wasn’t going back to ask. He’d find it if he had to try them all. “The red broken one.” “Broken one?” “Uh-huh, the broken one.” “She had an accident?” “No.” Nate shook his head. A frown creased his brow. He didn’t see De until she was at their side. An engaging smile lit her face up. “I’ll collect Paige’s things.” He grunted. She still smiled. Damn if he didn’t want to kiss her. He could still recall the first time she’d smiled at him. Lust flickered to life. The look had made him feel about sixteen again. So captivated in the expression that night he had kissed her full on her pouty lips. He took a half step forward. Right now, the urge to claim her was just as strong. “Nate, Paige has you a plate.” The boy took off at a run toward their spot on the beach. “I was set up.” He tried for a glare but knew he wasn’t pulling it off. De shrugged a shoulder. “Maybe. Help yourself. I made cheese and peanut butter sandwiches.” “Thanks a heap, I will.”

She was first to turn away. Her strides were long as she headed toward a red car. His prick twitched as he looked on. A craving beat in his blood. He wanted De. Could no longer deny the need. One question burned in his brain. Would she be as responsive as he ed? Would her pussy be as hot? Her legs and arms as clingy? Or her mouth as sweet? He forced himself to turn away when she moved off the sidewalk. A swim. A swim would ease some of the tension and hopefully some of the arousal De had stirred up in him. By the time he ed them again, Paige sat in his chair, so he sat on the blanket. “I hope you don’t mind. Paige’s not feeling well today.” De wrapped her arms around her knees and watched Nate play in the sand. “Not at all.” He dried his hair some with a towel before wiping his face, neck and chest off. “You hungry?” De pushed to her feet and moved to a cooler. “Yeah, thanks.” “Cheese or peanut butter? We have chips. Sliced fruit. Water...” “I can’t believe you’re waiting on him.” Nearby, Paige wiggled her feet. Ethan stared. The woman’s toes resembled fat sausages. “Paige...” De straightened. “You promised.” “What?” Paige’s mouth twisted. His spine stiffened at the look. Now what was the sheila doing? De waved her to silence, not that it worked. “I can’t believe you’re going with the man into the never-never either.” “Listen here, Paige.” Ethan regarded first one woman, then the next. “What De and I decide is none of your business.”

Paige snorted, ignoring him, she had eyes only for De. “It’s the truth. At least leave Nate with me.” “Paige, I explained everything...” He didn’t care for the anxiety he heard in De’s voice. It knotted in his guts. “Did you explain it to him?” Paige turned stormy eyes his way. “Did you?” What the hell? What was he missing? “Ethan. His name is Ethan.” De shook her head. “Will you please stop...for now.” “Explain what?” By Christ, if there was something else he should know, and she kept it from him... “I don’t think she should go anywhere near those fanatic religious freaks she calls parents.” “Ohmigod, Paige!” De’s hands went around her middle protectively. “That’s enough.” “Mummy?” With big blue eyes, Nate looked up from where he sat a short distance away. Fanatic religious freaks? Ethan stood and released a breath. Fanatic religious freaks? Just what kind of religious zealots were her parents? She hadn’t mentioned a word about her parents before... As if sucker punched, he closed his eyes. Oh, Christ. Had Miller known what her parents were like? Had Big M tried to protect her somehow? “De?” He thumbed to the water. “I want to talk to you a minute.” “I thought you were hungry.”

“It can wait.” “Oh.” Clear panic showed in her green orbs. “Oh, okay.” Paige wiggled her toes. “Natey, come bury my toes. The cool sand will feel heavenly on them.” Nate laughed, snatching up his bucket and shovel. De fell into step with him. “Luv, I can’t tell you how many mistakes I made with you in the past.” His right hand came up to rest along the small of her back where skin peeked out. Fingers trembling, he caressed her silken skin. Desire for more intimacy brought him closer to the warmth of her body. “But I want to start over, and I want to know about the real you...all of it. Let’s try being friends, all right?” “Friends will be fine.” She stopped, turned to face him head on. His hand fell away. “But friends don’t have to know everything about one another.” Ethan folded his arms so as not to touch her again. Bugger me. He wanted to know all there was to De. “All right, I’ll give you that. But about what Paige said...” “I don’t want to talk about my past. I’ll never expose Nate to their beliefs...” She released a breath. “I’ve moved on.” “De, luv, from what I’ve seen you’ve done great for you and Nate, but I want to know.” Muscles in his back bunched in growing strain. He didn’t want to push her, but he had to ask. “I need to know one thing.” He understood her inability to speak to him about intimate things. He’d done her wrong. Maybe in time they’d find a way to talk. “Just answer one question about your past, for me?” “One question.” The tiniest hint of a quiver made her mouth tremor before she compressed her lips. “Did my brother know what your parents were like?” She nodded. That was it. After the nod, she walked away.

Oh, fuck. This development should give him some type of relief. But it didn’t. It made things worse. Now he suspected Miller hadn’t loved or been in love with De. Big M was the only person he knew who’d play knight for anyone. Miller had spent his childhood doing so for their mum and C...and him. A shuttering breath shook his frame. Bugger me. Miller could be so bloody tight-lipped about everything. Ethan could’ve made everything right if he’d only talked to M in the beginning. As much as he cared for his brother, he’d never tried to get past the walls he’d erected. M was comparable to a bloody mountain because all anyone saw was exposed surface. He never let anyone close. Maybe if he'd tried harder. Maybe if he'd pried into his brother's business.

Chapter Four

Denae turned an eye on the clock and sighed. Ethan was over an hour late. Nearly two hours late. Maybe he wasn’t coming? Maybe he’d changed his mind about Nate...about everything. Or... Oh God, what if he had a family? The possibility was a real one. A wife. Children... Or at least a girlfriend. What if he hadn’t been able to get away from them? Though if he was in a committed relationship that’d be the least of her worries. Why didn’t you ask about his private life when you had the chance? Because right now, she didn’t want to pry. No, she hadn’t wanted him to pry into her life, into her past. The only thing that mattered was making sure things were settled between Ethan and Nate. If Ethan had a family or girlfriend waiting at home for him...they were his business. Not hers. Though it seemed like he’d have mentioned them. She shook her head and the momentary worry away. Besides, in her heart she doubted he’d settled down. The night she’d met him, she hadn’t been the only woman he’d flirted with. Danced with. No. There’d been several. She still didn’t know why he’d singled her out. But she could still clearly recall how thrilled she’d been at his attention. Sweet sensations fluttered low in her stomach. When he’d kissed her she’d nearly melted on the dance floor. God, what he must have thought that night as he made rounds in that club. Ethan Thorn was a player out for tally marks on his scorecard. “Mummy, play with me.” Nate wrecked the little car he held in his fingers with a noise. “It’s bedtime, tiger.” She bumped the car against a spare truck sitting nearby.

“We need to pick the toys up.” “I don’t like going to bed.” He picked up a second car to zip around on the floor. “I don’t like picking up.” “I know.” She kept the grin back. “I’m Mummy, I know everything about you.” He gave her a cheeky grin, ignoring her request to pick the cars up. So she crossed her legs and set about doing most of the chore herself with a little assistance from him. She made it a game where whoever got the most cars in their hands at one time won. Nate claimed a few of his favorites before she dumped a few others into the bucket where they kept his cars stored. “We had a fun day today, didn’t we, tiger?” “Uh-huh, Mummy.” He didn’t look up from where he smashed cars into one another “I like the beach.” Smiling, he met her gaze. “I like Ethan.” “He is nice.” Ethan promised Nate he’d teach him to swim. She’d given it a go herself, but Nate was so young. She didn’t have the skills to teach him properly. “I’m glad you like Ethan.” Nate concentrated on his toys. Denae monitored the seconds going by on the wall clock. Her shoulders slumped in both disappointment and relief. The man wasn’t coming by. She snatched up three more cars and put them away. No way was she going to discuss Ethan further with Nate since the man wasn’t even here. Nate was too young to understand most of the gist of the talk anyway. Besides, what if Ethan changed his mind altogether? “Okay, tiger, playtime’s up.” She picked up another handful of cars, leaving him with only the ones he held. “Mummy.” A high quality entered his voice as he shook his head. “I don’t like bed.”

“I know, Nate.” Thankful she still had the power to manage him, she stood and scooped him up. “Mummy...” His arms wrapped around her neck. As she turned toward the hallway, the doorbell rang. Nate straightened in her arms. Placing him on her hip, she made her way to the door for a look-see. Outside, Ethan stood in his work clothes. Her heart set to beating a rapid dance. He had come after all. Jitters hit her hard. Half nervous, half happy she let him in. Seeing him standing there, heat rushed through her breasts. Yes, despite her misgivings, she was happy to see him. “De, I’m sorry...” She waved him deeper into the apartment so she could close the door. Even though he’d interrupted Nate’s bedtime, she let it slide. “That’s all right. Nate’s glad you made it.” More than likely he didn’t know children. They’d talk about boundaries soon enough. “That so, mate?” “Uh-huh.” Nate ran a car up her arm. “I don’t like bedtime.” Ethan’s smile was quick to show. “Christ, I could use a good night’s sleep.” Yes, boundaries needed to be discussed. He’d need to watch his language. “Oh, hey.” She took a good look at Ethan in the fresh light of the entryway. Tiredness etched across his face in fine lines. “We can talk another time. You’re tired. Tomorrow’s fine.” “Nope, I’ve got time now. I expected to be here sooner. I got called out for a late retrieval.” He shrugged a shoulder. “And then had paperwork to get done.” Nate wiggled to get down, so she set him on his feet. He was quick to move away. Within seconds, she heard cars being dumped out.

Denae sighed. “I’m sorry about...” God, she hadn’t considered all the aspects of his career. Although she’d spent many hours worrying about him, retrievals and paperwork hadn’t crossed her mind. She waved her hand. “Work.” “Listen, De, I’ll try not to be late in the future.” Her fingers itched to rub the tired lines away from his face. To scrub at the light scruff that now covered his cheeks and chin. On an urge to touch him she moved closer. “I don’t think that’s something you can promise in your career.” His career was time-consuming and very dangerous. She shivered. On the job she’d want him to be completely focused. Not worrying about the time. Thick lashes lowered to half-mast. “I guess not.” “Besides, this is for Nate.” She smiled in an attempt to make this easier for him. “And he can’t tell time yet.” Ethan treated her to a smile. She inhaled sharply before side-saddling past him. Her nipples hardened at the light brush of their bodies. The shockwave of their connection nestled between her thighs. His smile was something she’d love to get used to seeing. It was as sexy as it was boyish. “Are you hungry? I made extra for dinner.” On the way to the kitchen, she stepped into Nate’s view. “Tiger, Ethan’s going to visit for a little while, so you got lucky.” She blew him a kiss. “Bedtime in a half hour. And no whining about it.” “Yay!” Nate’s grin spread from ear to ear. She grinned back. In the kitchen, she whipped up a salad while Ethan sat. “Here’s a start.” Quietly, she placed the bowl and two types of dressings in front of him. Guessing moo juice, she asked anyway, “Water or milk?” “Milk.” He shifted to sit up straighter. “Thanks.” “You’re welcome.” At the microwave, she took her time heating a chicken breast and a baggie of vegetables. Heat stained her neck and face while she performed

the domestic chore of making him a meal. She eyed the counter. Once upon a time what wicked things he’d done to her in the kitchen. God, what the man had done with ice... Wild sensations burst in liquid fire. Her clit tingled. Scrunching her thighs together she attempted to hang onto the flicking desire. “I told my team about Nate.” He cleared his throat. “About being a father.” She gasped. “Oh.” Tension knotted her abdomen. Focus woman. There’d be no more ice play in her future. Or peanut-butter body painting either. Or Ethan Thorn for that matter. “How...” She swallowed. “How’d that go?” “They were as surprised as I was... But I got a few slaps on the back. I also took two weeks off. I had the time coming, so it’s no problem.” “Oh.” A trembling took hold in her fingertips. Two weeks was a long time. “I don’t think I can take two weeks. I mean, I know I can’t.” She had to save her time off, any vacation time, for the days Nate got sick, to care for him. He was her responsibility. That was just how life went for a working mother. “Ethan, I wanted to talk to you about Nate.” “You bet. What do you want to talk about?” “Would you mind if we gave him a few days to get to know you before we tell him you’re his father?” She took a breath and rushed on. “I know you wanted to tell him right away...” “Listen, I’m here. We can take our time telling him if you think it’s best. I understand he’s just an ankle biter.” Relief shuddered through her. “Thank you.” “I’m not going to wait to tell my family though. How much time can you take off, luv?”

“Six days including the weekend.” That was stretching things for her. Time off was so valuable. “That’ll work. I can spend the rest of my break with Nate here.” “Oh, okay.” Alone? Ethan planned to spend time alone with her baby. Briefly, she closed her eyes. Their baby. She had to that. “Luv, you’re willing to travel home with me?” “For Nate, yes.” She arranged his meal on a clean plate and took it over to him. “Thanks.” He turned the plate around so the chicken was closer to him. “Is Wednesday enough time to make arrangements?” “Yeah. Nate will be thrilled.” “Other than explaining things about Nate, I’m already looking forward to the trip.” Her heart went out to him. Of course telling his brothers, especially Miller, and his mum about Nate would be difficult. “Well, that’s good.” It was nice at least one of them was looking forward to the trip. She sure wasn’t. But she’d do her best to make the most of the trip. “I’m going to check on him.”

––––––––

“Tiger, Ethan wants to help tuck you in tonight. That okay?” Nate didn’t move from where he lay on the corner of the couch. The boy looked sleepy. “How does that sound, mate?” He scratched at his chest feeling his pounding heart. Who’d ever thought putting an ankle biter to bed would make him nervous? He couldn’t deny it. This bedtime routine was a memory in the making. “I don’t like bed.”

“This is where I just pick him up and carry him to bed.” De bent over to collect the last of the scattered toys. Ethan took advantage of the opportunity to ire her arse. Lust rushed his blood full throttle. His prick filled out, thickening. As his mouth watered with desire to tuck De into bed. Eh, he’d like to put De to bed. And stay there for an hour or two. No other activity would put a bloke to sleep for a good night’s rest like fucking. But first things first. Nate’s comfort needed to be seen to. “I’m not sleepy.” Nate’s eyes were nearly slits. “I am.” Or he was until he’d gotten a delectable eyeful of De. “Come on, mate.” He scooped the boy up and placed him over his shoulder, earning laughter. De straightened. “You don’t want to get him started now...” A frown tightened his forehead. All he’d done was pick Nate up. She sighed and led their way down the hallway. In their son’s room, she pulled the covers back and took Nate from him. “Ethan’s going to put you to bed like Paige and Jack have done from time to time but I need my goodnight kiss.” With a huge, sleepy grin, he kissed her. He didn’t struggle when she put him in the bed. Ethan gave silent thanks. “I sit on the beanbag here beside the bed for a few minutes. I sometimes read to him. Or talk to him. It soothes him.” She leaned down and kissed Nate again. If only she’d give him a goodnight kiss, he’d go to bed a dozen times a day. “Well.” She stood straight. “I’m going to take a quick bath. I’ll be in the living room by the time you’re done here.” “Thanks a heap, De.” He meant it. De was being accommodating, which he appreciated.

She offered him the smallest of smiles, before facing Nate one last time. “Night, baby. I’ll see you in the morning.” “Night, Mummy.” Under Nate’s watchful gaze, he eased onto the chair. Amazingly, it didn’t pop under his weight. “I’m not tired.” A yawn belied that statement. “Your peepers say differently.” His chest tightened as he observed his sleepy son. De had done great with the boy. She’d done the boy proud. “What’s peepers?” “Eyes. Your eyelids are drooping like an old hound dog,” “I’m not a dog.” Nate rolled onto his belly, his face toward him. “I like dogs.” “Like dogs, huh?” He stretched out and put his head against the wall. “We’ve got a dozen dogs on the station. Would you like to see them? One day?” “I like dogs.” Nate lifted his head to brace his chin in a hand. “You got puppies?” “Probably. A bitch is always having a litter.” The boy snickered and ducked his head back down. “Jack says that word.” “Oh, eh.” Dammit. Not much got by the boy. “Mummy don’t like bad words.” “Sorry about that, mate.” He’d have to watch his tongue. Hell, Nate was about to get an earful on the station. He supposed since he worked with the public, he’d learned to curb his language. His brothers and cousins tended to curse with every breath. To them cursing was a normal part of language. “Jack likes bad words.” He bit back a grin. Apparently cussing was everyday speech for Jack too. “You want to go see our dogs?”

“Is Mummy going with us?” “She is.” The boy was worried about being away from his mother. He’d noticed throughout the day, the two were close. He liked that a lot. A whole lot. Knowing firsthand De had taken such good care of Nate pleased him. As well as eased his mind. “I like dogs.” “Well, mate, why don’t you go to sleep and dream about puppies?” Nate grew quiet, but every once in a while he opened his eyes, peeking. A few minutes later, De surprised them both by ing them. With her sexy legs bare, she stepped over his outstretched legs and climbed into the small bed with Nate. The boy rolled over to press his face into De’s body. They made a nice picture. It was a few minutes before De lifted up partway. “He’s asleep.” She eased over her son to stretch a foot to the floor. When her second foot touched down, he caught her hand in his. Though he acted to help her over him, he wanted to drag her down to the floor with him. A thrill rolled through his bloodstream as the touch lingered. His prick hardened. Pressed against the confines of his pants. “Oh.” She let out a gasp alerting him to the fact she felt the heat between them. He had trouble catching his own breath. It’d been like this for them before... Instant combustion. Steady once more, De jerked back. “Sorry about that. “She wiped her hand on the long T-shirt she wore. “Well, he’s asleep for the night.” “Yeah.” Enjoying the quick rise and fall of her breasts, he pushed to his feet. “Well, I guess we’ll see you tomorrow then?” “Eh, you bet.”

De’s arms folded under her breasts. Watching her nipples pebble caused arousal to tingle in his balls. Sweat coated his palms. It’d been a while since he’d fucked. Maybe that was the deal with his increased reactions to her. It had to be. Still he wanted to know. Needed to know. And no time like the present to find out. Using two fingers, he reached out and caressed the pulse in her graceful neck and slowly ran them down along the vee in her night shirt. His fingers slid across to drag over a single nipple. On a moan, her hips arched, her breasts thrust forward. He stepped into her space to press his stiff prick into her. De whimpered. He inhaled roughly, enjoying the feel of her along his body. Christ, she smelled good. Damn good. He inhaled again. Nuzzling her temple, his mouth buzzed a kiss. He shifted impossibly closer. Lips trailed a line of kisses to her mouth. Greedily he played over her lips. He groaned at the feel of her mouth under his as she opened for him. Her sweetness made him drink. His thirst for her shuddered through him. It’s been too damn long. The fire for her that’d stayed kindled nearly brought him to his knees at the feel of her hands on his chest. The craving, the yearning he’d always had for her erupted on a groan. He deepened the kiss. His tongue and lips explored, teased hers. His rigid prick throbbed in need. It’s been too damn long. “I missed you, De.” He relished her sweet taste. The soft sounds she made caught in his mouth. His balls drew up in warning. “I missed you so damn bad.” No one had ever compared to her. Not ever. He

wanted her back. What she’d done to him. The way she’d made him feel. Groaning, he slid a hand down her body to cup her hip. He pressed his hard prick into her. Focus, mate. Ignore your own growing need for release. He eased back to allow his hand to trail under the nightshirt she wore. Her panties were wet to his touch. She gasped into his mouth. “I missed you, luv.” De whimpered on an arch of her hips. His free hand caught the back of her neck to keep her anchored to him. Her pussy was hot as he worked her clit through the cloth. With a turn of her head, she broke the kiss off. “Ethan.” Her hand pushed at his chest. He stilled. A new type of tension sank into his muscles. Nervously she pressed her hand over the heartbeat in her neck. “Ethan...” “Yeah?” He eased back to look into her gaze. “I’ve already experienced this...move of seduction.” She motioned between them. “And I have the proof to show it.” Cold water washed over him, through him. What the hell had come over him? Trying to seduce De? What was he thinking? He hadn’t. Unless it was with the head below his waistline. No. It’d been more than his prick thinking. She’d been hot for him too. He’d felt it. But he’d abandoned her. Hell, he’d not only abandoned her... She’d never been his. She’d belonged to his brother. A bloody fine mate. A second chance wasn’t something he deserved. Guilt and a rising tide of insecurity caused him to step away to give her space.

“I have to be at work early tomorrow.” She led the way from the bedroom to the entryway. “You’re welcome to visit Nate. We’ll be here by five most days. But...but...” Her arms went back under her arms. “I’m a mother, and the last thing I want to do is become involved with a player again.” Ethan’s teeth clenched. He hadn’t been a player since she’d walked out his door. “What we had was a fun time...” Fun time? His arse. She’d bloody well had the time of her life. He’d made sure of that. Hell, what they’d shared those two weeks had been the best of his bloody life... She turned away from him to pull the door open. “It was no more than sex.” Only sex? He’d thought he’d suffocate from wanting her. Even after he’d tried to forget her. De had gotten into his system. She’d affected his life just as his calling for a career as a rescue swimmer had. When she faced him, her face held tight lines. “Let’s stick to being friends for Nate’s sake.” Muscles along his back bunched. Rejection wasn’t something he’d ever experienced before. She’d just rejected him, and he disliked it. Disliked being compared to the man he once was. “Sure, for Nate.” He forced a smile. “Goodnight, sheila. I’ll see you both tomorrow.” “Hooroo.” She closed the door before he left the steps. Christ. What had gotten into him? And why did he want to prove he’d changed?

––––––––

Out on the airfield in Alice Ethan approached Travis slightly ahead of De and

Nate. He attempted to his cousin his bag. Travis removed his hat to scratch his head. The young man continued to ignore the bag, so Ethan dropped both bags he held. “Isn’t she...” Travis replaced the hat and rocked back on his heels. “It’s a long story. I’ll tell you some of it in the air.” “Nuh-uh.” His cousin shook his head. “No how. No way. No can do.” “Your cousin?” De gasped when she stopped beside them. “So you met Travis already then?” That was good. Not. The flight was going to be awkward as hell. “You’re having your cousin fly us home?” “I’m a damn good pilot.” Travis glared. “Whoa...” Ethan held up a hand. His cousin was a fine pilot. He’d been taught by the best bush pilots around. His brother Miller and his cousins, like many on the outback, used planes instead of autos. “He’s a kid.” De turned to face him. In his mum’s arms Nate swiveled his head back and forth. “Pig’s arse, I’m no kid.” Travis faced only Ethan. “Big M didn’t say a thing about this.” He thumbed toward the pair beside him. “Not a damn word.” “He said a bad word.” Wide-eyed, Nate grinned. “I can’t do this.” De clasped his arm sending a wave of arousal along his nerve endings. Sweat beaded her forehead. “I can’t.” “Listen.” He rested his hand over hers only to have her pull away as if he’d burned her. He clenched his teeth. Every time he’d touched her since the night in Nate’s room she’d reacted as if he was contagious. Every bloody time. She acted as if his touch repelled her. Not that he blamed her. He’d fucking abandoned her.

Christ, how would he ever make it up to her? To Nate? “This wasn’t part of the deal.” She clutched Nate even closer. “Come on, De. We’ve only got six days.” And half the day had been spent on a commercial flight into the interior of Oz. He got between De and Travis. “I swear Travis is a good pilot. Licensed and everything.” “Damn straight.” “He said a bad word again.” “Oh, God.” De hefted Nate higher. Ethan put his back to his cousin. He tried to give them a little privacy as he massaged her shoulder. He didn’t like to see her afraid. “Luv, I swear Travis is a fine young man.” At seventeen Travis was a man if a very young one. “I swear he has a good head on his shoulders. I’d never put either of you in danger.” Long lashes lowered to shield her gaze. “What do you think, mate?” He turned to Nate. “Want to go for a ride?” “I like planes.” Nate wiggled, but De held him tight. “You really trust...” Chest constricting, he cut her off. “Yes I do. I’d never put either you or Nate in jeopardy. Not ever.” Damn, did she not trust him at all? His teeth clenched—he couldn’t take looking at the emotions swimming in her gaze. Maybe her reaction, her fear had to do with more than just Travis. Maybe she was worried about the trip in general. “Okay. Okay.” She shifted Nate up on her hip. “You swear...” “I swear, luv.” He crossed his heart. “Oh, God...let’s go before I change my mind.” He helped her get Nate settled onboard the four-seater. Miller had sent Travis with the roomiest of his birdies.

“This is bull.” Travis was tight-lipped when he strapped himself into the pilot’s chair. “Big M didn’t say a bloody word about...her.” “Respect your elders.” Ethan buckled himself in. “Just get us in the air, mate.” Travis scribbled something on the back of his flight log and tapped it for Ethan to read. Leaning over he read his cousin’s note. Is that ankle biter Miller’s? The world closed in on him. Fuck. Others would wonder the same thing. But he knew Nate was his. There was absolutely no doubt for him. If there’d been the slightest chance De’d been pregnant with Miller’s child, Miller would’ve gone after her. Instead his brother had held his head proud and like with everything else hadn’t said a bloody word about De to anyone. Bugger me. He had so much to explain. Ethan shook his head before bringing his gaze up to meet the young man’s head-on. “No. Now get this birdie in the air.” “Fuck. I swear you all think I’m an idiot.” Travis ed around headphones before he booted up the plane. “No talking until we’re in the sky. Got it?” Knowing the instruction was meant for De and Nate, he glanced back and pressed a finger to his lips. “Just for a few minutes. Travis needs silence to talk to the tower.” Nate grinned excitedly. “I like planes.” Travis snorted. “I’m carting an ankle biter around.” Take off went without a hitch. Besides De entertaining Nate with toys and little games, the flight was quiet. About two hours into the flight, Nate had to piss in a baggie, after which he then declared, “I like peeing in baggies.” Travis didn’t let Ethan off the hook though. During their fuel stop, the young man turned on him when De took Nate inside for a break. “What the fuck is going on?”

“Listen, mate, I need to talk to M and Mum first.” He raked his hand through his hair. “Can you understand that? Let me do this.” “You want me to dump her in Miller’s lap? No warning. No nothing. Just have her show up? After what she did.” “No. It’s nothing like that. Just get me there so I can talk to Miller. And my mum.” “I her. What she did...” A tic beat in Travis’s cheek. “Big M deserves to be warned.” Christ, Travis was mature. Far more mature than Ethan had been at seventeen. “Tell me, mate, what kind of day do you think Miller’d have if I call him with a by-the-way, I’ve got De with me? And it’s hours until we’re home.” “A shitty one.” “Exactly, so why ruin the entire day for him when it can be avoided?” “To hear M tell it, he has a lot of shitty days, I don’t think telling him about...” Travis’s mouth twisted. “...her and that ankle biter is going to make things worse. I’m calling M. No matter what you say. I won’t surprise M like this.” “Christ, mate” Travis pulled his cell out. “Nate is my son. Not Miller’s.” He exhaled noisily. That’d felt good. Nate was his son and he’d not hesitate to announce it again. “What?” Travis turned storm-filled eyes on him. “What the fuck did you say? Yours?” “You heard me.” He clasped Travis’s shoulder and squeezed it. “Now, I need to talk to my brother in person. I can’t tell him this over some fucking phone. And it’s my place to tell him.” “This is fucking bullshit.” Disgust shone clearly in Travis’s gaze. He shook his hand off and climbed back into the plane.

Sickness churned in his belly. He couldn’t imagine M’s reaction. Or his mum’s. Or Co’s. Oh, bugger me. He closed his eyes. Inhaling deeply, he released his breath slowly. Somehow he’d make it through this. For Nate. “You okay?” De walked up to him holding Nate’s hand. “Yeah.” He nodded, not feeling the least bit okay. “I had to tell Travis... T wanted to give M a heads-up. It’s important I talk to him in person.” “I know.” She picked Nate up. “Well, let’s get this behind us.” Travis didn’t speak a single word to them the rest of the trip. And Ethan didn’t blame his cousin. Hell, he couldn’t blame anyone but himself. Still the situation might be harder on Travis than some. The young man had never known his mum. Aaron-Matthew had had Travis long before he should have. A few weeks later Travis’s mum had disappeared. Too bad there were never any do overs in life. He sure would take one. Looking back—and knowing what he now did—he might not have chosen a brother’s loyalty over a woman’s love. He’d been bloody serious about De.

Chapter Five

“Where are the puppies?” Nate’s wide eyes scanned the yard as they approached the house. Not a hound in sight. This time of day, they’d be out working the animals. He’d make up for disappointing the little mate later. “We’ll have to search for them after while.” Ethan hefted the boy up on an arm. “I’ve got to say g’day to my mum first.” “I like puppies.” “Eh, me too.” He patted his son’s back. “I promise to show you some.” Ahead of them, Travis dropped the bags on Mum’s porch and left them without a word. Ethan tried not to notice, but he did. Tension knotted his muscles. He disliked discord among his family. It’d been one reason he hadn’t told M when he should have. Not only had he not wanted to disappoint, to hurt M, but he hadn’t wanted to face the conflict. “You okay, Ethan?” De brushed his upper arm. “I’m nervous.” He reached down and gave her hand a squeeze. The soothed him. Her ission surprised him. Pleased the hell out of him. He wanted her to be open with him. She caught her lower lip between her teeth but didn’t let go of his fingers. Some of the tension eased as he gave her a smile. “Visiting with Mum is going to be the easy part.” Yeah, Mum would be easy compared to Miller. You could always count on Mum to love, to accept. After another squeeze, he released her fingers to knock on the screen door. His hands shook as he pulled the door open. “Mum!” Inside, he ed Nate to De. “Mum!”

“E, I was sewing.” The smile she wore faded when she saw De, but she still embraced him in a hug. “Son, I’ve missed you.” “You too.” In turn, he squeezed her in a bear hug. “Mum, I’ve brought visitors.” He stepped back, taking in the grey in her hair. The tired eyes. Every time he visited anymore reminded him she was aging. Faster than he liked. He didn’t want his mum to grow old... “I can see you have Denae.” Mum’s mouth tightened. “Who else have you brought with you?” Her hand trembled when she brushed back loose strands of hair. “Ethan, what’s going on?” A shortness of breath nearly buckled his knees. The feeling of being ten again overcame his senses. “Mum...” Oh, Christ. How did one tell their mum they’d fucked up in the worst way? Explain what a pig’s arse he’d been? Sweat beaded his brow. He’d never wanted to disappoint his mum. Denae took a single step forward. “Maree, I’d like you to meet Nathan Button. Nate, say g’day to Maree.” Relief at the initial introduction relaxed his spine. “G’day.” Nate did as his mum told. “You got puppies.” Mum’s smile was small. “I believe we do.” “I like puppies.” His mum nodded, covering her mouth with a shaky hand. A knot of emotion clogged his throat. He didn’t have to hear his mum say it. He knew what she was thinking. She was looking at Nate and seeing what he had at first sight of the boy. Nathan was a Thorn. Only the little mate wasn’t M’s. He was his. “Well, we’re going to go play a few minutes while you two catch up.” Listening to the quiver in Denae’s voice, Ethan wanted to pull her into his arms and offer comfort. Neither she nor his mum would appreciate that.

De carried Nate over to the couch and set him down. She quickly pulled out a few toys from her pack. “Thanks, De.” She offered a small smile in return. “Come on.” He wrapped his arm around his mum’s slim shoulders and urged her to go outside with him. “I’ve news to share with you.” “I’m getting old, Ethan.” A grimace slashed across his mum’s face as she sat in a wooden rocker. “I’ve a feeling I’m about to get older.” The smile she offered him was weak when she faced his way. “Mum, Nate’s mine. I can’t tell you how sorry I am over how things came about.” He straightened his spine. “But Nate is my son. And I’m damn proud to be his father.” She nodded. “I could tell he was a Thorn... Your father’s coloring...” She waved a hand. “Miller...he...” Her throat worked. “He’s not, Mum. Nate’s mine.” “Well.” A long sigh ed through her lips. “Everything worked out for the best then. Denae wasn’t right for Miller. I knew it. I never felt a spark between the two of them.” She shook her head. “Still, I tried to push them together. Thought they needed each other.” Ethan reached out and took her hand in his. He brought her hand to his mouth and placed a kiss on it. “Thank you, Mum.” “I wish I could do more than accept little Nate.” Sadness swamped her gaze. “Miller may need time to come around.” “Me too.” He chuckled. “Christ, me too.” He just hoped time would be enough. She leaned over and kissed his cheek. “I’m going to go inside and get to know my grandson.” A weight lifted as she walked by him.

“Thanks, Mum.” He closed his eyes and turned his face up to the heavens. His mum had a good heart. That hadn’t been an easy task but at least it was done. And had gone better than even he’d expected. At the slam of the screen door, he jumped up. “Wait, Mum.” He followed her in to catch up to her. “We’ve not told Nate I’m his dad yet.” “Humph, well then, you’ve got about a minute to break the news because he’s going to know I’m his grandmum.” The set of her mouth meant she was serious. “De.” He called to get her attention. Green eyes lifted to meet his, but it was too late to tell her of his mum’s intentions. His mum got down onto the floor to sit across the coffee table from their son. “Nate, do you know what a grandmum is?” The little boy shook his head. De’s eyes widened. He willed her not to get angry with his mum. Surely, Nate wasn’t old enough to make all the connections. “Grandmums give presents and let their grandsons take a puppy home with them.” Nate’s grin was quick to spread from ear to ear. “I like grandmums.” They all laughed.

––––––––

Dinner had been quiet at his mum’s. Ethan kept checking his watch. If Miller followed his routine he’d be home any moment. Ten minutes ed before they heard the sound of a vehicle pulling up. De stood with him, but he encouraged her to stay put. This one, like the last, he

had to handle alone. “I’ll be back in a few.” Impulsively, he leaned over and kissed her temple. “Thanks, luv. You’ve been great.” Mum’s watchful eyes followed him out. Big M climbed out of the truck as he approached. “Mate, good to see you.” A rare smile greeted Ethan along with a quick hug. Damn, his brother’s response to seeing him shook him up. He hated to steal that smile. Hated even more to give him the news. “Brother.” His hand clasped M’s shoulder. “It’s been too long.” “That’s a fact.” Miller took his hat off and wiped his brow. “Let me clean up, and we can get a beer.” His brother slapped him on the back as he ed by. “Wait.” “Eh?” M came to a standstill to wait for Ethan. “What can’t wait ten minutes?” Tightness settled in his chest. His heart thundered painfully. Christ. His brother was his best mate. “I’ve got something I need to say.” He forced a breath out. “I’m listening.” Where in bloody hell did he start? With Nate? In Sydney? “Little brother, it appears what’s eating you is going to take some time to get out.” M patted his back and headed off. “Come on. I need a pint. There’s plenty in the house. Talking always goes better with beer.” Oh, Christ. “Wait, M. Listen, first, you gotta know I’m sorry before I tell you...” M stopped once more. “Tell me what?” He shuddered on a breath. “You all those times you told me to think before I acted?” “Been telling you that since you were about four.” Miller nodded. “Think I took more than one licking for your dumb arse.” In his mind’s eye, Ethan reviewed the last licking his father had given Miller

over him. Ethan had taken better care after that one. He’d climbed up into a tree. Christ, he’d done some stupid things as a kid. They’d gone fishing, and on the way back, he’d climbed an old tree to show off for Co. Miller had pleaded with him to come down before he got hurt. He hadn’t listened, only climbed higher instead. He’d fallen and broken his right leg. Miller had carried him home. Their father had beaten the living shit out of Miller for not taking better care of him. M hadn’t been able to walk right for four days. His stomach knotted. Oh fuck. If only he’d listened... No. Because if he had, he’d not have Nate. Nate was a fine little mate. “E, I’m still waiting.” Miller now stood by his truck. His arm folded over the side of the truck bed. “I’m sorry to do this to you. But I have to tell you something.” “So you’ve said.” M yanked his hat off and raked his hand through his hair before replacing it. “Still waiting on what for.” “You know I slept with a lot of women, not caring about their pasts...” About them. De hadn’t remained among those women. He should’ve had the balls and told her so. Stood up to Miller. His shoulders slumped in remorse. “Did you go and get yourself a life sentence?” Miller straightened. “Hell no. I’m clean.” He shook his head. The one lesson he’d paid careful attention to was Big M’s talks on safe sex. Until that protection he’d used with De had failed. “Christ, mate, let me get through this... You have to know...I didn’t know who she was...” M arched an eyebrow. “Denae...” “I’ve been patient long enough.” M folded his arms across his chest. “Get this over with.”

“Denae had a baby....” “She say it was mine? Because if she did, she’s lying.” “Christ, no. Miller, I have a son. I swear to Christ I didn’t know who she was...when...” He couldn’t breathe through the tightness. “I didn’t know she was your woman...I’d never have...” Again, he felt ten years old. Besides him mum, Miller was the only person he’d never wanted to let down. Or hurt. Shame washed through him. He trembled with it and guilt. If the situation had been reversed—he knew in his soul—Miller would have come to him. Big M was the better man. Had been the better man since they’d been boys. “I’m bloody sorry.” His older brother gazed off across the landscape. A rapid tic pulsed in his clenched jaw. As silent moments ed, Ethan’s heart hammered until he couldn’t take it any longer. “M, say something.” Or kick my bloody arse. Eh, he deserved a beating from his brother. “What the fuck do you want me to say?” His own teeth clenched as a clog worked its way up his throat. Oh, Christ. “I’m bloody sorry, mate.” “A sorry and five dollars will buy you a bucket of piss.” Miller walked off, his back stiff. “M, I swear to Christ I didn’t know De was Denae. I swear.” Full on, Miller turned around. Anger radiated from him. “You bloody well knew what you’d done. You fucking knew when you sat at the pub with me... You had a dozen opportunities to speak up.” He knotted his fists. “I can get past the fact you fucked Denae. Life happens. I can forgive that. That’s what you want to hear, isn’t it?” Miller advanced. Ethan forced himself to stay put.

“But I cannot, will not...” M pressed two fingers into his chest. “...ever forget that it took over three bloody years for you to tell me what had happened.” Miller shuddered, alerting him to the fact he’d slipped from anger to fury. “Miller...” Alarm bells buzzed in his ears. He’d never said when he’d hooked up with De. Or how old Nate was. “And you, mate, better be bloody glad Travis called me and warned me what the fuck was coming.” Ethan groaned. Oh, Christ. “I’ve had the day to cool off.” His brother stepped away from him. “Otherwise. I’d probably have broken your bloody jaw.” Then he headed toward the house. Ethan had been dismissed. He’d rather face a great white than this. The brother he’d looked up to, ired beyond all others was shunning him. Christ knew he deserved it. Christ knew his brother was the better man. His breathing turned rough. Fuck! His chest heaved. He’d rather have M kick his arse. “Wait.” He had to warn Miller that De and Nate were inside. “What?” M glanced back, tight-lipped. “De and Nate, they’re inside with Mum.” “My problem isn’t with them.” With no other choice left to him, Ethan followed him. Inside, Miller stepped into the living room and removed his hat. “Denae, good to see you.” Ethan eyed the white knuckles M clasped his hat with. “G’day, Miller.” De’s lower lip trembled but she stilled it. “I hear I’m an uncle.” “Yes. Yes you are.” She offered up a weak smile. “This is Nathan. I call him Nate.” She kissed the back of her son’s head from where he sat in her lap. “Nate, say g’day to your uncle Miller.”

“G’day.” Nate hid behind a storybook he held and peeked out from behind it. “You hungry, M?” Their mum pushed up from her chair she’d been sitting in. “Nope. I’ll eat something at Auntie’s. I figure they can use my room.” Replacing his hat, he tipped the brim. “I’ve got to grab a few things, then it’s all yours.” “Thank you, Miller.” De hugged Nate to her and watched him leave the room. His mum patted Ethan on the arm as she ed, heading to the kitchen. His throat worked. His shoulders had never been so heavy. He regarded the hallway his brother had walked down. If it hadn’t been for him. If he hadn’t screwed things up so completely...maybe just maybe everyone would be happy. Everyone but him. It felt as if someone had died. Never had he thought this breach between him and Miller would come to . What he wouldn’t give for one of their old man’s lickings instead. Swallowing, he looked over at where De sat with Nate. His son. There’d be no trade off. He hadn’t gained one relative to lose another. M had to forgive him. Mates remained mates.

––––––––

De lifted her head again to see the time. She groaned. The minutes crept by. Stay in bed. Do the smart thing and stay in bed. She couldn’t though. The evening had been spent agonizing over Ethan and his brother. God, Miller hadn’t even bothered to look Ethan’s way, while Ethan’s gaze had pleaded for forgiveness. Guilt had to be eating a hole in Ethan. She should know. The emotion had played havoc on her nerves for so, so long. There was no denying she’d played a role in

the distance between the brothers. But at day’s end, she’d been relieved Nate’s identity was out. More importantly, Maree had appeared to be genuinely happy to have Nate around. Knowing he’d have one grandmother who’d take joy in him made her happy. Quietly, she eased out of the bed to leave Nate sleeping. After a quick check of the covers, she slipped out of the room. The house was silent as she tiptoed to the living room. There’d been no chance to speak to Ethan alone, and she wanted to check on him. Needed to was more like it. Disappointment had nagged her when neither Cohen nor any of his cousins dropped by. Ethan sat slumped on the couch with the telly on low. She hesitated. Maybe he didn’t want company. Didn’t need anyone to talk to. Maybe he wanted to be alone with his emotions. In the darkened room, light from the screen lit the blond in his hair. Her fingers twitched to play in the strands. To soothe away his hurt. Yes, she wanted to touch him once more. Caress his skin. Soothe away his pain. The memories they’d created had kept her going for so long. Now to have him back in her life. There was no possible way to understand how sometimes life just happened. She’d missed him so badly. The night he’d kissed her it’d taken everything in her not to tell him so. A quiver shook her knees. They’d have winded up on the floor if she had. She’d ached so badly to recapture the magic she’d felt with him. And the sex that they’d shared before had been so good. As if sensing her, he turned his head and straightened up. “He asleep?” “Conked out about an hour ago.” His arm slid along the top of the couch. “Couldn’t sleep?” “Not really.” She wrapped her arms around her middle. “Is the show any good?”

His sigh traveled through her. “I hadn’t noticed.” She thought as much. Before she gave it too much consideration, she sat on the couch. Immediately, his fingers toyed in her hair. Pure desire quivered through her to settle in her breasts and lower stomach. “You okay?” “I am.” “I’m sorry, about...about everything.” As she ed, his touch had a powerful effect. Helplessly, she leaned into his hand, seeking out his warmth, his energy. “No need to be, luv.” His fingers caught up the ends of her hair and rubbed them between his fingertips. The caress ran all the way down to her center. Arousal pulsed awake in her clit. His touch, his nearness never failed to enliven her senses. “None of this is your fault.” It wasn’t. Again he played with another lock of her hair as if it fascinated him. He buried his nose in her hair and groaned. “You smell good.” He inhaled. “I never forgot your scent.” She inhaled sharply at the feel of pleasure pooling. She’d not forgotten his either. So many nights had been spent wishing for him there. Her panties dampened. So many nights had been spent masturbating, pretending they were his fingers. His touch. It had been so, so long since she’d been caressed like this. Wanted. Even for a night. On another inhale, she caught the scent of the alcohol. “Have you been drinking, Ethan?” “Not nearly enough.” He made a rough sound of amusement. “I discovered it’s no fun to drink alone. Without a mate.” Easing away, she faced him. A shiver of delight ran through her body when he didn’t release her hair. In fact, he chased her movements by leaning in closer. Her breasts swelled, nipples extended in search of attention. “I...I...” Her breath quickened as liquid fire pooled low in her stomach. “I could talk to Miller.”

“Luv, there’s no need.” He groaned, leaned his head back. But only for a moment. “I did M wrong. It’s as simple as that.” “I think he’ll come around.” Nervously, she patted the top of her shirt to make sure it was in place. “I owe him a lot.” God knew just how much. “He’s a nice bloke.” Another breath ran across her skin as he made a sound of amusement. Ethan shifted so they were face to face. “M’s a great mate. The best brother.” Chest deflated a little, she forced the returning guilt away. Life was about decisions. She paid for her past mistakes, but she refused to keep paying for them. What happened next would be up to Miller. She’d keep the faith he’d forgive Ethan. Them. His arm shifted to bring his hand to rest on her shoulder. His fingers tangled in her hair. “Nice isn’t the word most or anyone besides Mum would use to describe him.” His nostrils flared. “My guess is Cohen’s probably the nicest of us Thorns. The old man didn’t have the...” Abruptly, his mouth set in a tight line. “Didn’t have what?” Please don’t let him close up now. ittedly, she wasn’t ready to open up about her past, still she ached to know everything he’d share. “You didn’t know M well, did you?” Although she didn’t want to disclose everything, she didn’t want to leave herself open for ridicule. At the stirring of the old memories, she blocked them out. Refused to face them again. Now wasn’t the time to open old wounds. She’d moved on. Bettered herself. So now with Ethan, she went for honesty. “I knew what he wanted me to know.” “I take that as a no.” Ethan dropped his head on the back of the couch. Unsure if she pushed him away or pulled him closer, Denae clutched at his shirt. “Our old man was a mean whacker. Mean as hell. Did you know that? Did my brother tell you that?” His breath warmed the skin on her neck. It’d never been quite so hard to breathe before. Miller had never spoken of his past. His childhood. Ethan had never mentioned their father in their two weeks

together. “Dad was a vicious arse to everyone, Mum, me and Big M.” He rolled his head toward her. She gulped at the feel of his lips against her pulse. “But not Co. No. By the time dad turned on Co, Miller was big enough to get in the way. He took up for us all.” A shudder racked his body. “M never forgave our dad for all the beatings he took.” Under her hands, his body trembled. His voice grew taut. “He never forgave Mum for not leaving the old man...” His breath rushed hotly over her skin causing her own to burst in pants. Pure desire swirled in her core. She’d never have guessed. Not ever. And Ethan’s lips made it hard to think clearly. “My brother isn’t going to forgive me for not telling him.” The hard muscles of his body pressed into her as he managed to lay her back. “He wouldn’t have forgiven me had I told him.” She moaned low in her throat. If that was true, either way Miller’d have held a grudge. No wonder Ethan had waited to tell his brother what had happened. His mouth turned fervent on her skin. “Christ, De, you smell so damn good.” A kiss was pressed under her ear. On a gulp of air she arched. Oh. This feels good. Eyes closed, she reveled in the sensations that rocked through her body. Just feel. Just experience. His warm lips and talented tongue played down her throat to nuzzle the exposed cleavage of her breasts. His teeth nipped here and there. She brought her free leg up over his hips. She wanted him closer. Needed him closer. “You taste so damn good.” He nudged the material out of the way and claimed a nipple to suckle.

Sensations swamped her and she cried out, rocking her hips. Her clit pulsed with each draw of his mouth. Groaning, he ran his tongue across her chest to torment her other nipple. “Ethan...” Oh, God, she should stop him. And she would. Any minute now. It had been so long since she’d felt this alive. This womanly. You’ve wanted this for so long. Yes, she wanted Ethan. She would take this night. Her fingers tangled in his hair to bring his mouth more fully over the swollen flesh. “Are you wet, De?” He ran his wicked tongue around her nipple until it stood for his attention. “I how wet you’d get for me.” Raw heat built at her core. Yes, I’m wet. So wet. So ready. As if reading her mind, he lifted his weight from her to slip down onto the floor. Barely leaving the warmth of her body, he shoved the coffee table out of the way. Now on his knees he urged her to shift so he could get her panties off. Realizing his intent, she stopped him before he could dip his head. “Kiss me first.” Please kiss me. His kisses held the power to undo her. Ethan didn’t disappoint her. His lips were rough, his mouth tasted of beer as they explored one another. The kiss deepened with his tongue’s actions. The working muscle stimulated nerve endings connected to her clit. She moaned as he caught her butt in his hands. With a lift of his hands, he

brought her pussy to the edge of the couch. Legs spread wide she offered him her body. Eagerly, he pushed in close to the apex of her thighs. Face to face they shared deep kisses. Hot kisses. One lingering kiss after another left her breathless. His rigid length pressed into her slit on each rock of his hips. Need swelled in her pussy. The promise of ecstasy had her root against his hard body, his stiff prick. Ethan was the one to break the embrace of their mouths. His hand ran down her from neck to thigh. “Christ, you’re a beaut, De.” He leaned her back. “A real beauty.” A whimper ed through her trembling lips. “Christ, De I missed you.” “Ethan.” Her heart raced. His lips pressed gently to her. “I’ll make this good for you.” This was her out. His way of asking for permission. With shaking fingers she cupped the side of his face to bring him back for a kiss. She nibbled on his mouth until his beautiful body shuddered. “You sure, De?” He placed his hands on the sides of her head. His thumbs rested on her cheeks. “Be damn sure.” Unable to do anything more she cried out only to have his mouth claim hers in a deep kiss. Their mouths teased. Their breaths rasped. Longing for more, she worked her tongue between his lips. He groaned, enjoying the dancing of their tongues. The suction of their mouths. Unable to take much more, Ethan allowed her only a moment of dominance. Need surging in his blood, he broke the kiss to trail his mouth downward. Lips played across from her left breast, down the center of her body, until he latched onto her clit. After a heartbeat he moved on down to her hole where he used his

tongue to fuck her until she shook in need. He groaned, tried to go deeper. “Ethan...” Her thighs trembled. Instead of relieving the growing tension in her body he set about stroking her swollen sex. His tongue worked up and down her slit. Time and again he teased her clit. Tears of want filled her eyes. Finally, as if sensing the distress he caused, he drew on the tight bundle of nerves. Almost instantly, she felt the embers deep inside bursting. Too fast, she crested the abyss. Pleasure pulsed outward. An orgasm tore through her. Ten, she cried out, enjoyed each and every little clench of her inner muscles. Before her heartbeat slowed, Ethan pushed his hard length inside. The man took his time, inch by inch until he rooted against her pelvis bone. Denae moaned, wrapped her legs around him. Her arms went around his shoulders. He shifted them backwards until she was impaled on his prick. Grunting he hefted their bodies to the couch where her arse rested on the edge. His muscular body covered her while he withdrew to push back in on short, quick pumps. “You feel good. So damn good.” His lips teased her to return a kiss. She tasted her essence on his teasing tongue. Clinging to his shoulders, she gasped on each of his deeper thrusts. He was hard. And thick. And so deep. He plunged down only to pull out slow. He swallowed her moan. She wanted it fast and hard. Desperate, she pulled at his hair. “Stop teasing me.” Ethan made a rough sound before giving her what she wanted. His loss of control. Deep.

Fast. Hard. He rode her. Deeper. Faster. Harder. He thrust into her needy body. So deep. So fast. So hard. He pumped his prick in and out until she came apart with the pleasure he spun. Her body tensed, arched. Grunting and groaning, he ed her in climax. Her inner muscles clung to the pulsing length held deep in place. Their breaths mingled as the kiss finally broke. He separated their bodies. Lethargic, she lay spread out. That had been so good. Her body continued to hum deliciously. Through lowered lids, she watched him remove the protection she hadn’t noticed he’d put on. His hands shook while he got himself stuffed back into his pants. She sighed, closing her legs. “De?” “Hmmm?” “You all right?’ Unsteadily, she sat up. “Yes.” That was the truth. For the first time, she’d

enjoyed sex. Really enjoyed sex. No shame, no guilt, no regret surfaced. “Listen, luv...” “It’s okay. I’d better get back to bed.” And she’d better. As good as this had been, a repeat performance probably wasn’t in her best interest. There’d be no forgetting how easily her heart had gotten involved last time. She leaned over and pressed a kiss to his mouth. “Night, Ethan.” Standing, she walked past him.

Chapter Six

Bugger me. De acted as if nothing had happened between them the previous night. Already Ethan’s prick filled out his pants, more than eager for a repeat performance. The woman hadn’t ed him one single glance. On the other hand, he’d been eyeballing her since she’d gotten out of bed. Ethan scrubbed his face. Continuing to regard her at the sink, he supposed he’d treated dozens of women this same way. One night he’d nail them, the next night, if he ran into them again, they barely got a glance. A frown creased his brow. How many women had thought that about him? But Christ, this was different. He and De had a history. They had chemistry. “Denae, the pastry was delicious.” His mum interrupted his brooding. “I second that.” He pushed his empty saucer away. De had volunteered to fix breakfast. “Thanks, you two.” De offered a smile over her shoulder. “Do you mind if I take Nate out to the barn?” When his mum stood, she glanced over at De. “Oh, not at all.” De set the towel aside. “Let me check on him and then he’s all yours.” De left the kitchen. From spending time with De and Nate, he knew “check on him” meant take the little mate to the pisser. “Were you able to get any sleep on the couch?” “Some.” He grunted. What a crock. He hadn’t gotten more than an hour or two. The sex had sobered him right up. Not to mention De’s disappearing act right

after. “Granmum.” Nate dashed into the room. “I’m ready.” “Bonza.” Mum stretched her hand out to let Nate clasp it. “Let’s go explore the barn.” The closing of the door left him alone with De. Unable to sit down a moment longer, he pursued De over to the counter. “How are you feeling this morning?” He purposefully invaded her personal space. “I’ve not even got a g’day from you, yet.” “G’day, Ethan.” “I know of a way we can start the morning off right.” A half of a step closer and he felt her body heat. Smelled her soft scent. And noticed she stiffened at his nearness. “I had a nice time last night...” Nice? Last night had been bloody better than nice. She moved out of his reach. “But I don’t think it’s a habit we should start.” A tic kick-started at the bunching in his jaw. De lowered her lashes to shield her gaze from him. “Us being here... The atmosphere.” She shrugged. “We’ll be back home soon and forget this ever happened.” What the hell? Forget this ever happened? That wasn’t about to happen. What they’re shared last night still captured his interest. Dammit, he wanted more. More of De. “You understand, don’t you?” Her green gaze went dark. “For old time’s sake. It was nice. But we have to live in the here and now.” Bloody nice, his arse.

“You don’t have a problem with what happened between us, do you?” Yeah. Yeah, I do. “No, I don’t.” “Excellent.” “E?” They both turned at the sound of Cohen’s voice. “About time you came home for a visit.” He met his little brother halfway across the room. “Co.” He gave his brother a half embrace with a slap on the back. “Good to be home.” He stepped back to glance over at De. “Mate...” Co tipped his hat. “G’day, sheila.” She offered him a smile. Noting the dark look in Cohen’s gaze, he needed to know. “Did Miller...” His brother shook his head. “No, mate, Luke shared the good news.” He shook his head. If Luke, the station’s tourist manager, knew about Nate...every bloody native from here to Sydney would hear the gossip in no time. “Congrats on fatherhood.” “Thanks, mate.” Ethan placed a hip against the counter. “I did try talking to M.” Co snatched a sweet roll from the table. “But you know M. He told me to mind my own bloody bizzo.” That had always been Miller’s way. No one got in his business. Ethan grunted, damn thankful his little brother hadn’t picked sides. Co took a bite. “It’s good.” “De gets the thanks.” “Sheila.” Co saluted her with the pastry.

“There’s plenty.” De waved to the table. “I guess I’ll leave you two alone.” “Hey, my girls are outside with Mum.” Co winked at him. “Hayleigh will be around soon enough. She slept in this morning.” “Girls?” De shifted closer. “My girls, Abbey and Cali.” A huge grin dominated Co’s face. “They’re beauties like their mum.” “I bet they’re lovely. I’ll go introduce myself. And see how Nate’s getting along.” Ethan folded his arms so as not to touch her as she ed between them. No sooner had De left them than Co turned hard eyes on him. “What the bloody fuck were you thinking?” “Mate...” He took his place back up against the sink. For a moment, he considered keeping the baggage to himself, but Co had partied with him more than once. He knew the score on the club scene. Christ, that’s how Cohen had met his wife. Co had met Hayleigh in a Sydney pub and discovered the real deal. “Don’t bullshit me either.” “I met De one night in a club. I had no idea who she was beyond her first name.” He cleared his throat. “At the time, I didn’t care to know anything like that. Get the picture, mate?” “And Big M?” “M’s the best mate.” It was done now. No undoing the past. “I couldn’t bring myself to tell him I was the reason De wasn’t marrying him.” He stared his brother dead in the face. “Now you look me in the eye and tell me...if you’d been me, could you have?” “I’d have wanted to...” Co rocked back on his heels. “I don’t know.” He didn’t know if Cohen would’ve been able to do it either. Hell his little brother had gone

off to the university to please M. Co ired Miller as much as he did. Ethan sighed. Christ, how he’d struggled over the decision. “Come on, mate. I want you to meet Nate.” “Nathan? After dad?” He nodded before giving Co’s shoulder a quick squeeze. On the porch, his cell peeped, alerting him a message had been left. Stopping, he scanned the text. Shania Thorn Rose’s identity has been confirmed. Do you want the full file? Oh, bugger me. He’d forgotten all about having the Yank checked out. “Listen, Co. I need to make a call. I’ll catch up, eh?” “No problem.” Fingers shaky, he dialed Miller’s number. His brother answered his cell on the second ring. “Yeah.” “I wasn’t sure you’d answer.” “I don’t have anything to fucking say to you, but if I’ve got service I always answer my phone.” A breath shuddered through him. Time. All his brother needed was time. He’d keep telling himself that. “I just had Shania Thorn Rose’s identity confirmed.” “Figures.” Miller snorted. “Considering the way my luck’s been running these days. Look, tomorrow evening, I’m going to sit Mum and Cohen down together and tell them about Shania.” “All right, I’ll be there.” Miller hung up then. Not a hooroo. Nothing. Just dead air. Ethan was half tempted to toss his phone in frustration.

––––––––

Denae sipped her tea, watching Hayleigh drive away with Nate in the backseat. He was going home with his cousins while Cali took a nap. She laughed to herself, thankful she’d had a boy. God, Cali and Abbey were handfuls and then some. Three hours with Hayleigh and her daughters and Denae was exhausted. What bad little influences they’d be on her son if they had Nate to play with every day. From her short observation, she wondered if discipline was in Cohen’s dictionary. What little sprites the girls were. She sighed. But out here in this wild land they suited it. In the distance, Hayleigh stopped alongside an approaching truck. Squinting, Denae couldn’t quite tell who the trunk belonged to. But after another minute or two, the vehicles parted ways. The truck made its way toward the house. Her pulse sped up as the driver came into view. Miller. Had he come to visit with Ethan? On a wish, she crossed her fingers. But instead, he slowed at the storage barn some distance away and maneuvered his rig to reverse the truck’s bed inside. Inside the house behind her, she could hear Ethan carrying on with his cousins Aaron-Lee and Aaron-Matthew. The twins Lee and Matt didn’t appear to hold her relationship against Ethan. For that, she was thankful. He’d needed their company. Their . She wished Cohen hadn’t had to get some work done. Several of Ethan’s cousins had yet to put in an appearance and she worried they wouldn’t. Yet still, there went a man she owed a great deal to. And it was time she told him so. Quickly draining her tea, she then set the glass down. Not allowing herself to back out, she focused on the barn and put one foot in front of another. Miller tossed a bale of hay into the back of the truck when she arrived. “G’day, Miller.”

“Denae.” Nothing showed on the man’s face. He didn’t even slow as he went to collect another bale. Needing something to hold onto, she leaned over the side of the truck’s bed. Her stomach swam with nerves. Miller had always been so hard for her to talk to. What a complicated relationship they’d had. “I need you to know how sorry I am.” She swallowed. “I should’ve had the decency to talk to you.” “Eh, probably should’ve.” He used hooks to grasp the bale. “But things worked out for the best.” He slapped the hay into the back of the truck. Only then did he spare her a glance. “I’m flat out busy with three days of work ahead of me. Say what you want so I can get to it.” “What you did for me...” Mouth dry, she moistened her lips. “I want to thank you. I can’t think of another man who would’ve...” Miller had saved her. He’d saved her from her parents’ abuse, from their religious craziness. Most importantly, he’d saved her from herself. If he hadn’t stepped into her life when he had...she’d never have escaped the hell of the existence she’d been living. No matter what demons had haunted her then, the affair with Ethan had been so wrong. Not itting her failing to Miller was just as wrong. “I’m sorry I didn’t have the courage...” “No worries. As I see it, I didn’t do much.” He wiped his brow. “I didn’t have many prospects out here anyway.” He rested against the end of the truck. Denae shook her head. Miller needed only to show interest, make an effort. He never really socialized. Work and the land drove him. She’d never understand why he was so aloof. “Deep down, you were...are relieved we didn’t marry.” Dragging her hand along for , she stopped in front of him. Blue eyes so much like Ethan’s held her gaze. Only, they weren’t Ethan’s. Ethan’s offered clues to the man behind them. Mischief. Anger. ion. She’d never seen Miller’s lit-up. That fact scared her the most. What if Miller really did hold a grudge against Ethan? Forever. And she’d be at the root of it. “Please, Miller, I need to hear you it it...” “Sheila, if this is about Ethan, it has nothing to do with you.” His jaw tensed. “It has to do with loyalty. Period.” He shifted around her to lean over the side and pull a bale up the bed. “Like I said, glad things worked out for you.”

Straightening up, he tipped his hat. “Hooroo.” Please don’t let him be stubborn about this. For Ethan’s sake. For Nate’s sake. And for Miller’s own sake. “You didn’t even love me...” She grabbed his arm to stall him. “You can’t stay mad at Ethan over this. You can’t.” It’d kill her, knowing she’d come between them. “Sheila, leave it be.” “Please don’t be this way.” Miller reached up to clasp her hand, trying to loosen her hold. “Please, Miller.” “Let her go, M.” She gasped, turning with Miller to the doorway. Ethan’s eyes blazed blue fire. Miller dropped her hand. “It’s not what it looks like.” “Sounded to me like De was begging you.” Ethan’s cheek ticked in anger. “That pisses me off.” Denae’s breath caught at his assumption. “No. No. I wasn’t.” Had she been? Okay, maybe a little. She’d do what it took to get Miller to be reasonable. “I don’t know what you were planning...” Ethan faced Miller head on. “But whatever you had with De in the past is long over.” She moaned. Where had this side of Ethan come from? This was crazy. “Ethan, stop.” “You...” Miller took a step forward. “Back off, little brother.” Ethan didn’t back down. “Not until you’ve got the fact De’s mine now through your bloody thick skull.” Her mouth gapped open. “Ethan!” Where had the notion come from? His?

“Really?” Miller arched a brow. “That’s not what De was telling me a minute ago.” “Miller!” She gasped at the perverse man egging Ethan on. “This has nothing to do with me.” It was the breach between them. Miller had confirmed that. She waved between the two. “You two need to talk things out.” “Eh, we do.” Ethan nodded. “In my book time for talking has done past.” Miller radiated anger. “Since M doesn’t want to talk...” Ethan threw the first punch, hitting Miller in his jaw. Miller in turn took Ethan to the ground. The men rolled around grunting and throwing punches at each other. “Stop it!” Denae screamed. “Ethan, stop! Stop it!” Amid curses the men exchanged a series of body punches. She grew light-headed as she watched the madness. Yes. This had nothing to do with her... Miller had to be taking out the anger he felt toward Ethan and using this as an excuse to pound him. Or more so, Ethan was trying to work out his frustration at Miller’s attitude from his system. She understood men would be men. She simply didn’t want to witness it. “Stop this!” She glanced around for a water bucket. That’d cool them off. “Oh, fuck.” Matt entered the barn, slightly ahead of Lee. Trembling, she watched as the cousins managed to pull the struggling brothers apart. Ethan hunched over panting. Miller straightened before spitting out blood. He wiped his mouth off. She wanted to slap him for hurting Ethan. “Well, I hope you got it all out of your system.” “For now.” Miller picked up his hat and put it on his head. He spat again.

For now? She snorted, so glad she’d been born a woman. Ethan leaned over his hands braced on his knees. “Christ, mate, you’re as strong as a bloody bull.” He coughed. “A bloody brick shithouse.” “Working with animals that outweigh you will do that.” Lee chuckled, slapping Miller on the back. “Water boy.” Matt snickered. “You, on the other hand might be able to out swim a croc but that’s about it.” A grin pulled at the corner of her lips. Okay, that’d been funny. She laughed. “Water boy.” Though he’d held his own against his bigger brother. Ethan turned his head sharply her way. “Hey, not from you too.” She lowered her lashes. Miller headed for the truck. “Back to work, mates.” He stopped. “And no one mentions this to Mum.” “Oh, hell no.” Ethan nodded in agreement. The twins raised their hands in sync with one another. “Not a word from me.” They acted like she wasn’t there. She just might tell to see Maree’s response. Maybe she’d put an end to the foolishness.

––––––––

Denae examined Ethan once the twins left the barn. He was sweaty and dirty. “You okay?” Ethan advanced. “I think he broke about six ribs.” Unbelieving, she frowned. “He did not.”

“I think he knocked my tooth loose too.” A single stride brought him into her personal space. “Want to check it out for me?” His. She pulled the conversation back into focus. His teasing wasn’t going to sway her. He’d called her his earlier. Butterflies danced low in her belly. As good as the declaration was, her dander still rose. “No, no, I don’t.” Denae took hold of his shirt to keep him at a distance. Felt the speeding heart beneath the material. “What in the world came over you?” “Me?” His face tensed up. “What about you? You, out here alone with Miller. Can’t you decide which one of us you want?” For a moment, she could only stare. Heat spread up her face to burn her cheeks. “Oh... We weren’t kissing. Our bodies weren’t pressed together. We were talking.” She shook her head. “I can’t believe you said that!” She jerked her hand away from him. “This wasn’t about me and Miller, it was about you two!” But he was faster and caught her wrist. “I’m damn sorry.” “Let me go.” “Not until I’ve had my say.” Fire lit his blue gaze. “Listen, last night, you were hot and heavy for my prick. For me.” Her breath caught. “This morning, you tell me we’ll not be starting a habit.” He pulled her closer. “Just what the fuck am I supposed to think? You were begging my bloody brother.” The fire in his eyes threatened to consume her. She’d never seen that look in anyone’s eyes before. “Listen, luv I’m sorry for my pig arse behavior, but answer me, De. What am I expected to think?” The hand wrapped around her wrist tightened. “It’s not like that...” “Well, maybe it should be.” His teeth clenched, his voice lowered. “Because out

of the two of us, I know which is the better man. You think I don’t bloody well know he deserves you?” “No. No. Oh, Ethan.” Liquid heat burst to life in her core as she continued to look in the blazing blue of his eyes. Ethan was jealous. Jealous of Miller. But it went beyond her. “You have everything all wrong...” “I need to know what you want from me. Decide here and now, me or my brother...” His nostrils flared. “Because I’m not playing this game.” As thrilled as she was that Ethan might care enough about her to feel some sort of powerful emotion, tension tightened the muscles along her spine. He’d hit a hot nerve. “A game with you?” Her throat worked as anger built. “A game. Well, mate.” She pulled on her arm, but he didn’t release her. “I think you’re the only person who played any games.” She ignored the change in his stance. “You want to know the truth? The whole sad truth?” “Eh, luv, I do.” By God, she’d tell him. Maybe that would end this whole stupid charade. “I was miserable while I lived out here. Beyond miserable. I was so unhappy until Miller met my parents.” She swallowed, drifting back in time in her memories. “The day Miller helped me alongside the road, he took me home. Instead of getting a thank you, he got an hour long sermon of my father’s interpretation of the Bible.” Tears burned her eyes, so she blinked them away. The time for tears was over. “I snuck out to his truck to tell him how sorry I was for what they’d put him through.” “Go on, luv.” Ethan’s hand gentled on her wrist. His thumb massaged skin. “He said, he said... ‘No worries sheila. I could’ve walked out at any time.’ Oh God, I wanted to die then and there. Because there was absolutely nowhere I could go to get away from that. Nowhere. I’d been slaving on my parents’ small farmstay since I could walk.”

His hand slid from her wrist to her shoulder, rippling along her nerves. “I’d slaved for them while they told me everything I did was wrong. Everything. They preached to me about how God was watching me and knew all the mistakes I was making. Then when I was fifteen and got caught kissing a boy at church during a picnic.” Her chest hurt so badly she couldn’t breathe. His fingers kneaded her shoulder. “Well, I went from being a useless dummy to the devil’s spawn and a whore for kissing that boy.” Ethan groaned, wrapping his arms around her. Trembling fingers clutched at his shirt. “Well, if they were going to call me a whore, I might as well be one. From then on, when I got the opportunity I slept with every boy, every young man who’d pick me up for a few hours of freedom.” Her parents had been so ashamed of her they’d left her at home when they traveled to church. “And not a single one wanted anything from me but the sex.” Not a single one of them. She rested her head on his shoulder. “Luv...” “Just sex.” The tears wouldn’t stop. “But not Miller. He looked at me that first day and asked me why I didn’t leave home. I laughed. Oh God, how I laughed at him, before asking him just how I was supposed to do that with no money and no one to take me in.” Maybe in a city people could escape with no help. But here in the outback she’d had no resources. It hadn’t been until she was carrying Nate that she even ed her cousin Jack existed. She ran across a couple old postcards she’d held on to. Upon the death of Jack’s father, his mum had moved back to her family on the coast. God, how she’d missed them. But over time, it’d been easier not to them. Ethan picked her up and carried her over to a stack of bales. He sat and kept her in his lap. “I want to hear the end, De.” His arms were secure around her body. She held on for dear life.

“Miller started his truck and looked at me. ‘I’ll be back’” Denae recalled the day so clearly. “Despite my parents’ preaching he came back a few days later.” Her fingers dug into Ethan’s muscles. “I threw myself at him, but he wasn’t interested. Not that night or any other. Said it was best to get to know one another first. Only, I didn’t get to know him, not really. But he was so nice to me. And I loved how I felt when people saw us together.” “He gave me a job in the Thorn station’s kitchen. It hadn’t been easy, but he explained to my parents with the constable’s help that I was an adult and couldn’t be kept on the family farm.” She buried her nose in Ethan’s neck. “Freedom. He gave me my first dose of freedom. He got me a car that wouldn’t break down. And for this I thought I loved him.” Ethan’s chest vibrated in a growl. “Miller told me I didn’t know what love was but finally accepted a kiss from me. It was my first real kiss. The first, since the first sweet kiss, when I hadn’t felt dirty.” She tried to get closer to Ethan. “A week later, I impulsively asked him to marry me.” Marriage had been the next logical step in her mind. Here and there, Ethan’s hands made soothing motions. “He was reluctant. And right off, I knew he regretted agreeing.” A breath shuddered through her. “But then, there was your mum...” He groaned. “There’d be no slowing that woman down. Maree had been so happy for Miller. So kind to me. But Miller did find a way for some breathing room. Or that’s what I think now.” “Sydney?” Ethan’s voice was rough. “Yes. Miller treated me and my new girlfriends from the station to a trip to Sydney. He told me he wanted me to be sure.” Her hands tangled in his hair. “By then, I was scared I’d make him feel miserable...knew I wasn’t anywhere near good enough for Miller. But I couldn’t end it.” And she’d loved Miller for everything he’d done. Just not the way a woman was supposed to love a man. “He was the first safe, sane thing I’d ever had. Then you walked in that club.”

“Luv, De...” She ignored him as the tightness in her chest threatened to crush her. “You were so gorgeous...so breathtakingly masculine... I knew the only thing you wanted from me was sex.” “Enough, De.” His hands clasped her shoulders. “I kept thinking, why is he singling me out with all these pretty women around? But I was right.” She lifted her head. “That was all you wanted from me. A quick fuck like the dozens before you.” “Christ, De...” “When it came down to it, it didn’t matter. I’d needed the sex.” “De, stop.” “Because if Miller found out, he’d call off the wedding...like I couldn’t bring myself to do.” A sob tore through her chest. “Only...only...the sex with you wasn’t dirty like I’d thought it’d be. You made me feel the most amazing things.” Desperately, she pulled at his hair. “Then, you asked me to stay the weekend...and then the week.” “I swear, De, you were special. I might have played you that first night, even the second night.” Ethan placed his forehead to hers. “But after that I felt differently. I’d never have invited you back to my place... I’d never have asked you to stay the night otherwise.” “I swear I was as surprised as you were to find out you were Miller’s brother.” Until that fateful moment she’d been willing to stay with Ethan forever. Life had been so good with him. “I know, luv. I know that now.” He kissed her then, stealing what little air she had. His mouth was fierce as it plundered hers. “I’m so bloody sorry about how I treated you that day. For being a pig’s arse earlier.” Moaning, she dug her nails into his shoulders, his muscles, as his prick pressed into her hip. His hands roamed everywhere caressing her body. One snuck under her shirt to rub along her skin. His rough fingers provoked a maddening desire.

“Oh God, Ethan.” She pressed into the hard planes of his body. “I know.” He nibbled on her lips. “I know—I feel it too.” Cupping her breast, his hand coaxed out a moan. Shifting away from her, he kept kissing her while he managed to unbutton her shirt. His nimble fingers unclasped the hook on the front of her bra. “I love your breasts.” Roughly, he pinched a puckered nipple. “I didn’t have any until Nate came along.” She laughed, rolling her head to the side while he kissed along her throat. Loving the feel of his lips and hands on her body, she moaned. He growled, his teeth scraping along the tender flesh under her ear. Her clit swelled at the tingles of arousal. “I have to fuck you now.” His tongue trailed down her throat. “Right here. Right now.” All she did was moan, and then shifted off his lap. Quickly, she turned away from him to wiggle her jeans down to her ankles. Without having to be urged, she got onto her knees and leaned over a bale of hay. Ethan’s breathing turned harsh, and it echoed in the confinement of the barn. “Oh...” She gasped at the feel of the hay poking and scraping her swollen breasts. Liquid fire burst in her clit at pleasure-pain of the rough straw stabbing against her achy nipples. “Oh God, Ethan.” Frantic with need, she cried out when he dragged her across the bale to bring her pussy to the corner. Rough straw rubbed at her extended clit. She moaned, the blissful need intensifying to make her stir crazy. Arousal hummed through her. Ethan’s fingers stroked her slit. “So wet. Hot.” Two fingers filled her hole as his other hand pressed her into the hay. She screamed at the pleasure and arched her arse. He removed his fingers to shove his long stiff muscle deep.

She whimpered at the delicious fullness. At the feel of his weight pressing behind her, she tried to keep her breasts and stomach off the straw, but it didn’t work. Every thrust of his prick shoved her into the bale. Every inch of her body was sensitized. There was no thinking past the approaching climax. She focused on the pleasure-pain in her breasts, nipples and swollen clit. Teeth nipped the back of her neck. His mouth suckled at the side of her neck where it met her shoulder. “Oh, Ethan.” Her world buzzed on an arousal high. He made her feel so good while he pounded his rigid muscle into her sucking pussy. His body was hard along her back as he thrust in and out. He grunted and groaned bringing her to an explosive orgasm. She arched her hips up. “Ethan!” On a final thrust, he groaned low. Inner walls clutched at his buried length as it jerked inside of her. She moaned, tensing, enjoying the sensation of completion. Of him coming. Ethan pulled his weight from her all too soon. “You all right, luv?” A laugh bubbled up. “I think so.” She groaned, moving away from the bale. “Maybe.” “Christ, luv, I’ve marked your body all up.” Instead of touching her blotchy breasts, he ran his fingertips along her throat where he’d been sucking. “You’re not going to be able to hide those.” “Ethan, you didn’t...” “Eh, I did luv.” The love marks had been deliberate. His expression curled her toes. First, she’d better worry about getting her clothes back up.

Chapter Seven

For the first time in his life, he was glad to be rid of his family. Cohen had been last to leave. He’d forgotten how serious his cousins took their card-playing. His arse was flat broke at the moment. Dammit. Again, if only he’d listened to Miller. More than once M had told him not to play poker with the twins. The mates were bloody thieves. When his little brother’s taillights disappeared from sight, he went inside. In the living room, his mum spread a sheet out for him, tucking in ends under the cushions. He’d given up telling her he was big enough to make his own bed years ago. She simply never listened to him. Or anyone. Miller plainly got his stubbornness from her. She fluffed a pillow and dropped it near the arm of the couch. “All set.” “Thanks, Mum.” “My pleasure.” She stood on tiptoe and kissed his cheek. “It was a pleasure to hear you boys in the kitchen too.” She sat on the edge of the chair. “Did the twins leave you with a dollar to your name?” “No.” He laughed. At least now, he knew better. He’d never been around long enough in the past to play poker with the twins. “Shameful how those boys act.” Mum shook her head. “Alba spoiled them.” “Yeah, Uncle Aaron and Auntie sure let them get by with a lot,” he mocked, knowing full well his cousins had had plenty boots to their backsides. “Ethan Riley, those boys had it good compared to you and Miller...” Looking down, she trailed off. Yeah, he guessed so. He’d give her that. But he’d seen his uncle turn mean. Especially if he’d been drinking.

“Miller called earlier.” Sharp eyes regarded him. “Besides when you told me you were going into the Navy, I don’t ever recall any of you boys needing to talk to me. Do you know what’s on Miller’s mind?” Mum looked as if she’d come apart at the seams, and he sat beside her and wrapped his arm around her. “Big M’s fine. He’s just...” Christ, what was he supposed to say? What could he say? “We’re just having a family meeting.” She leaned into him. “Do you know how much I worry about you and your brothers?” He squeezed her. He thought he did, but he probably didn’t. “Every day, I worry some shark is going to get you. Miller works too hard and never takes any time for himself. And Cohen...” She shook her head against him. “I swear, even with girls of his own, that boy’s still reckless.” Ethan closed his burning eyes. “We worry about you too, Mum.” He hated seeing his mum growing old. Co e-mailed him every other week, telling him of a new ailment she’d developed. Wiping her eyes, Mum pushed up. “Well, I’m heading to bed. The girls wore me out.” She smiled. A dozen lines appeared on her face. “Now, Cohen’s girls are spoiled, but I’ll deny it if you say I said so.” She gave him a kiss on her way out of the room. “Good dreams, Mum.” “I want that.” A feminine whisper got his attention. Turning, De stood with her arms crossed under her breasts. Long naked legs gave him an eyeful. Lust stirred. How easy it’d be to strip that T-shirt from her body. “Want what?” “My son’s love.” “Nate loves you.” Tightness creased his forehead as he frowned. Everyone could tell Nate loved his mum. De was a damn fine mother. He enjoyed watching the two interact. “Nate’s a baby.” She sat nearby, folding her sexy legs under her. “I don’t know how he’ll feel as an adult.” After a shrug, she leaned back.

“You’re doing an excellent job with Nate.” Ethan slid over to her. “Speaking of Nate, any trouble getting him to go to sleep?” “No. He was asleep before his head hit the pillow.” Laughter brightened her face, lit her eyes up. “Those girls sit still about as much as a kangaroo does.” “Christ, they’re amazing. I’m still surprised how Cali fell asleep sitting up.” “That was cute to watch.” She laughed again. “They’re beauties, though.” “Hellions more like it.” De shifted, exposing the love mark he’d placed on her neck earlier. “How are you feeling, luv?” He’d ridden her hard, been rougher with her than he could ever recall being with a woman. “I’m tired.” Her teeth caught her lower lip. “A little sore.” A blush spread up from her chest. He watched as it crawled up her neck and cheeks. “That’s too bad.” He moved closer, but she stalled him by placing a palm on his chest. “I was thinking how great a kiss from you would be.” “The lights.” The colored deepened on her face. “What is it?” “Your mum might come out here.” “She won’t.” He winked. “Mum’s a bloody bright woman. Besides, the hellions wore her out. She’ll sleep until morning.” “And...” De hesitated. “I’m not completely comfortable in my skin.” “What?” He blinked, zeroing in on her breasts. “Luv, you’re sexy as hell.” Lifting his chin, she forced him to meet her gaze. A slow smile turned her mouth up. “I don’t think you’ve looked everywhere.” “Luv, I’ve looked you over a hundred times.” “No you’ve not.” She laughed. “Now turn the lights off if you want a kiss.”

Quickly, he gave her a kiss on her mouth. Then, he turned all the lights off except a dim lamp in the corner and went into the kitchen to shut those off as well. Back in the living room, he removed his boots and socks before pulling his shirt over his head. “You’re moving fast.” Laughing, Denae shook her head. “Don’t you dare take those off.” She waved at his jeans. “ your mum. What if she gets up?” “All right, luv.” There hadn’t been a thought for his mum the previous night. But the smart bloke he was kept quiet on that fact. Sitting back down, he wrapped his arm around her shoulders. “What about your delectable body are you hiding?” He nuzzled her temple. “Let’s just say breasts aren’t the only thing Nate gave me.” She turned, bringing her legs over his lap. “Your breasts are excellent.” He cupped one in his hand and massaged. “Just excellent. I’ll love any other change...” “Ethan!” De caught his wrist. “I’ve stretch marks now.” Face to face with her, he stilled. “What?” He’d not noticed a blemish anywhere on her. Not anywhere and he’d looked his fill. She moaned, trying to shift away. “Where?” He held her in place. “I want to see.” Yes, he wanted to see everything. Wanted to know everything he’d missed out on. De covered her face. “Why’d I say anything?” “De, luv. Show me.” Christ, he had to see. He wanted to know all the changes to her body. Four fingers covering her eyes spread open. “Weren’t you going to kiss me?” “Eh, I am as soon as I...”

She growled, causing him to grin. “Come on, luv show me.” “Fine.” She stood and lifted the hem of her shirt to her bellybutton. “Excellent they’re not.” Ethan groaned, seeing the faded lines. There weren’t many, a half dozen or so at her hip line. What he wouldn’t give to turn back the clock. To see the marks developing as Nate grew inside her. “You’re a beauty, luv.” Reaching out he clasped her thighs to bring her closer. He leaned over and ran his tongue over the marks that marred her silken skin. Here and there he placed kisses. “Oh, Ethan.” Her hands tangled in his hair while he continued his exploration. After making sure he covered all the marks she’d been worried about, his tongue dipped into her bellybutton to tease. “De...” He swallowed, the lust raging hot in his blood. At the arch of her body, he removed her underwear. He grunted, rubbed his confined prick. “Come here, luv.” He lay down on the couch to stretch his arm out for her. Willingly, she took his fingers to allow him to help her lay at his side. Facing him, her minty breath mingled with his. With his eyes closed, he swiped tongue along her lips. Her teeth nipped at him. Slipping his hand over her hip, he cupped her arse. He growled at the surge of arousal he felt. He pulled her long leg up over his hip. He loved the feel of her naked skin under his hand. Teasing lips played on his mouth, her tongue slashed out from time to time, until he opened for the kiss. Moaning, she arched her pussy against his prick in need. He squeezed her arse cheek, urging her closer. De’s mouth demanded from his. Greedily, she sucked his tongue. He groaned at

the tightening of his balls. The ion with which she explored him fueled his blood until his prick pulsed in need of release. Gasping for breath, she clasped his face in her hands. While all he wanted was for her to grasp his rigid prick. Ethan slipped his hand between them to fondle her pussy. Wetness spread along his fingers as he ran them up and down her slit, tweaking her swollen clit from time to time. Christ, he’d never get used to how she responded to him. Had always responded to him. His mind hazed over in need. Need for release, an even deeper need for her responses to him. The kisses grew deeper as he concentrated on bringing her to climax. Over and over he flicked, rubbed and pressed on her extended clit. She moaned, rocking into his hand. De’s body tensed when his fingertips turned rough on the sensitive flesh. On a cry, which he caught with his mouth, she came apart for him. He groaned, waiting for her climax to ease. At her calming breath he climbed over her to stand once her body relaxed. With shaking fingers, he got his prick out of his pants and protection rolled down over the aching muscle. “Come here, luv.” He sat in the rocking chair. “Come on.” He stroked his prick. She stumbled over to him, and he helped her get her sexy legs over the arms of the chair. Christ, her legs made him hot. He worked his prick into her tight hole. “Oh, Ethan...” Teeth clenched, he rocked the chair a bit, thrusting up on a backward motion. De clutched onto the top of the rocker and kissed him. Their mouths sucked at one another’s. Their tongues dueled, danced and teased for control.

Back and forth, they rocked her pussy, grinding down on the root of his prick. His balls tightened with each press of her weight. Suddenly, she rocked against the motion of the chair and moaned. That’s it. That’s what he wanted. Her response. Her need. She killed him with her tight hole, torturing him with the promise of building pleasure. Desperate to come, he grabbed onto her arse to stay buried deep in her pussy while they rocked. Nothing existed but her hot body, eager mouth. She panted into his mouth. “Oh, fuck...De...” Unable to hold back a moment longer, his come pumped out, his balls let loose, he arched, jerked until he was left empty. Drained. His chest heaved while he worked to catch his breath. Placing his hands on her waist he lifted her up to get his semi-erect prick out from inside her. There’d be no more accidents for De and him. For long minutes he held her close as their breathing regulated. This closeness he could get used to. Wanted the chance to get used to having her in his life. She finally lifted her head from his shoulder. “I’ll need help getting up.” Amusement sounded clear in her voice before she pressed a kiss to his mouth.

––––––––

Ethan did his best to appear calm. His mum seemed to be holding up as well as could be expected. She sat, drinking after-dinner coffee and eating a slice of the pie De had baked earlier. Cohen, on the other hand, looked concerned as he kept a check on the time. The muscles along Ethan’s shoulders knotted with tension. Miller had opted out of dinner but promised he’d be there any minute.

De and Hayleigh entertained the ankle biters in the living room. At the sound of an approaching engine, Co stood and shoved his hands into his pockets. “Fuck, I’ve no clue why I’m so jumpy.” “Cohen Michael.” Their mum turned sharply to waggle a finger at Co. “Not in the house and not near those precious girls.” “Sorry, Mum.” Over her head, Cohen rolled his eyes, causing Ethan to bite back a smile. Their mum always rode them about one thing or another. At the sound of the slamming door, the dogs set to barking. “Uncle M! Uncle M!” His nieces ran into the kitchen, jumping up and down. “Uncle M!” No sooner did Miller get through the door than Abbey and Cali latched onto his legs. They each sat on one of his feet, squealing as he pretended to dislodge them. Miller lifted one leg, then the next to shake the girls. Ethan looked on, enjoying this side of his brother. Even as a child he didn’t Miller playing much. The girls laughed, delighted with M’s antics. Ethan closed his eyes. Christ, Miller needed a family of his own. A bloody brood of children. He pushed the rising guilt away. Miller’s family hadn’t been meant to be with his De. His. When he looked up, De stood in the doorway with Nate in her arms. The boy focused wide-eyed on Miller with the girls. After another couple minutes, M stood still to regard the girls. “How are my two favorite kittens?” Neither answered, only giggled. “Abbey, hop off so we can see if Nate wants a ride.” Miller placed his hands on

his hips. “I don’t want to.” Abbey looked up mulishly. “Abbey, you have to take turns.” Hayleigh went over and removed the oldest of the girls. Miller gazed at Nate. “You want a turn?” Nate was reluctant, but once De got him over to his uncle, the boy was all for it. Miller pretended he couldn’t lift Nate. “I don’t know, mate, you’re as heavy as my horse.” “I am not.” Nate laughed. “Horses are big.” His brother lifted Nate then, causing the boy to hang on and laugh. He rubbed at his constricting chest at the sight of them together. Ethan glanced over at De. She wasn’t looking at Miller, only at him. Before his family, he made his way over to her and kissed her on her delectable mouth. Then, for her ears only, he leaned in and brushed his lips under her ear. “You’re a beautiful woman, luv.” De snorted and pushed at his chest. She was unable to nudge him away, so he stayed close by in her personal space. The tightness in his chest he’d been experiencing since rediscovering De and meeting his son returned full force. He liked having his family all together. Playtime wasn’t over until Abbey got another turn. Only when Nate came over to them did Ethan give her breathing room. She picked their son up. “I like Uncle M.” Nate flashed the room a big grin. Ethan chuckled along with De. “You too, mate.” Miller tipped his hat as he sat at the table. Mum got busy serving his brother, though he did try to stop her. “I can’t eat right

now, Mum.” “At least have a piece of pie.” While up, she poured a glass of milk for Miller too. “I’m going to go see if the girls want to watch a cartoon with Nate.” De brushed his chest as she ed by. By the time he got over to the table, Hayleigh had taken a seat on Co’s lap. Miller dropped his hat on the floor beside him and raked a shaking hand through his hair. He pushed the pie away. Instead of clasping Miller on the shoulder like he wanted, Ethan took up a sentinel position behind their mum. He folded his arms against the coming hard news. When M lifted his head, a hint of tears swam in his eyes. The sight of his shaking brother nearly buckled Ethan’s knees. Needing to be there for their mum he stiffened his spine. Teeth clenched, Ethan closed his eyes. Christ, he hated his bloody father. He’d hate to be in his brother’s shoes right now. Knew there was no way he’d be the one to break their mum’s heart. Or set reality straight when it came to their father in Cohen’s eyes. Hell, he hadn’t been able to face down his brother... “What the bloody hell is wrong?” Co’s raw voice brought his eyes open. Anxiety got his feet moving. He stopped at the side of the table. Hayleigh’s arm went around her husband’s neck. “I’ve got something to tell you. I can’t think of any way to tell you but straight up.” Miller left his chair. At their mum’s side, he got down on one knee. White knuckled, his brother grasped their mum’s folded hands. “Go on, Miller.” She forced a weak smile. “Nothing could be that bad.” “I swear if I didn’t have to tell you...I wouldn’t.” Miller’s voice grew low, tight. “I’d never intentionally hurt you like this.”

Mum worked a hand out to pat Miller’s. “Go on son. Just tell me.” Miller’s throat worked. The back of his eyes burned. Ethan dealt with life and death every day in his career and nothing had ever been so difficult to witness. Unable to watch his brother struggle alone a moment longer, Ethan knelt on the other side of their mum. He clasped both their hands in his. As M stated, there was no way to be other than direct. “Our father had a child out of wedlock. Doc tested Miller’s blood against the blood from her. And I confirmed she is who she said she is.” Their mum whimpered a slight noise, but that was all. His throat worked. That’d been far harder than anything he’d ever faced before. It was Cohen who reacted. He stood, taking Hayleigh with him. “What kind of bullshit is this? Our dad would never do something like that.” “Cohen, we’ve got the documented proof.” He held Co’s gaze. Their little brother left the house, his wife in his wake, leaving the girls in De’s care. “Who is the woman claiming this?” His mum swallowed. “An eighteen-year-old, Shania Thorn Rose.” He caressed his mum’s back. “Her mother’s name was Claudia Rose.” “I don’t know the names.” No, his mum wouldn’t. Their father hadn’t let her be active in the business end of the station. Had always kept her away from the visitors. She’d been a fulltime mum. A bloody good one. “Was.” Their mum looked them both over. She looked older than she had when they’d started. “You said, was...” “Claudia ed away from cancer several months ago. Shania has no other

relatives.” “I see.” Mum nodded. “I suppose I’m going to have to meet this girl then.” Ethan sucked in a breath. He shook his head, not liking the idea one bit. Though the issue with Shania echoed Nate's situation. Only he was getting a chance to be far more to Nate than their father ever would’ve been with Shania. His mum patted his cheek. “You don’t have to.” M growled from between his teeth. “I know. But if we’re all she has left...” She squeezed Miller’s hand. “It’s out of duty.” An ache drummed to life in the back of his skull. It wasn’t their mum’s place to make up for their father. Dammit. His chest ached, knowing his mum would do what she damn well pleased. She’d been doing so since Cohen had reached adulthood. “She could be a schemer out for a share of the station.” A tic pulsed in Miller’s cheek. “Or she could just be a scared young woman who didn’t feel she had any other options than to come to us.” She turned to him. “Thank you, Ethan.” “Mum.” His throat worked over a lump. Next, she turned to Miller and caressed his cheek. “Try to be positive.” Big M snorted and stood. Leaning over, he scooped his hat up. Standing tall, he caught Ethan’s gaze. “Thanks.” “Mate.” Ethan hugged his mum at the feel of her weight against him. Only when Miller left did she cry.

––––––––

From the porch of Hayleigh and Cohen’s home De supervised Nate as he played with Abbey and Cali in the yard. They lived in a very small town an hour’s drive from Maree’s home. Hayleigh had wanted a town life to station life. She kept her trembling hands on the railing. Her parents’ home lay fifteen minutes east of town. Too many bad memories existed here. Too many ugly memories she had no desire to face again lay too close for comfort. “Luv,” Ethan came up behind her, pressing his muscular body into the lines of hers. She sighed and rolled her head to the side at the first caress of his lips. This was madness that she should stop. The attraction she’d felt for Ethan, the affection had come full circle. It was difficult to keep her hands off him. And she loved his hands on her body as they played over her skin. “You having a good time?” “Hmm. Yes, I am.” She hated to see the trip coming to an end. “You have a wonderful family.” She’d enjoyed getting to know Hayleigh and the girls. It was nice Nate had cousins to play with. And a grandmum to come visit. Happiness quivered through her belly. Yes, meeting Ethan’s family added happiness to her life. To Nate’s. His tongue swiped, his teeth nipped, and his mouth sucked at her sensitive skin. Ethan’s arm went around her middle, and she grabbed onto it for . Sensations of arousal stirred low in her stomach, inciting a moan. “What are we doing?” “Um, right now?” His teeth caught the muscle on her shoulder. “I’m making you wet and eager for my prick.” Sweet sensations danced wildly in her middle at his words, his touch. How right he was. Her arse pressed back into his hardness. “Well, you’re doing an excellent job of that.” Shifting his body, he settled onto the other side of her neck.

“You shouldn’t mark me so.” Her clit swelled, tingled at the lingering feel of his mouth. “Best I can do at the moment.” His breathing grew rough. “With little eyes watching.” She laughed. Abbey did appear quite curious. Nate was a little older than Abbey, but she talked enough for all three of the children. The girls chased Nate along the low fence that circled the yard. “Seriously, what are we doing?” A trembling took hold of her fingers. She feared she’d started something she shouldn’t have, but she wanted to know. Needed to know his feelings. “I am serious, luv.” Ethan caught her earlobe between his teeth and tugged. She gasped at his teasing, closing her eyes. God, she loved how he played his teeth and mouth over her skin. “Serious as any heart attack.” His moved on to nibble behind her ear. “I think you’re going to give me a heart attack.” Laughter bubbled up. “You cannot have a heart attack from a woody.” “Now, sheila, it’s been known to happen before.” “Not to men who swim in the pond with sharks for a living.” “Probably true.” He grunted. “I’m hoping to make myself your habit.” A warm mouth and wet tongue played along her shoulder. “I’ve heard it takes twenty-one times of doing something for it to become a habit.” He caught her skin between his teeth and sucked. “If I fuck you another... Oh, eighteen more times of me filling you up, I’ll be in your system so deep.” He nuzzled her ear. “You’ll be good and hooked, luv.” “Oh, Ethan...” Sweet sensations threatened to consume her. She panted. Where had he gotten such a notion from? Her habit? How very easy it would be for her to become addicted to his touch. His nearness. To him.

Maybe she already was. It was the only explanation she had for allowing the man in her life again. “Hey girls, where’s Nate?” The door slammed as Hayleigh left the house to them on the porch. She stiffened, pushed away from Ethan. Heart crawling into her throat, she scanned the yard. “Nate?” “His grandmum picked him up.” Abbey skipped up to the porch, Cali following. “Maree? Maree wouldn’t...” Again she scanned the yard. “Nate?” “Not our grandmum.” Abbey shook her head. “A new one.” Denae’s blood turned cold. What had she done? “No!” Her breath stilled. A shaking rocked her body. Oh God... No. No. No. She’d been focused on Ethan. What he’d been doing to her. “Nathan! Nathan!” Her heart hurt. “Please, Nathan!” “Cohen! Cohen!” Hayleigh yanked the door open, allowing Cohen to slide out onto the porch. “Girls, into the house right now!” He pointed. “I’ll get on the radio and call Morgans.” The local constable. Yes, they needed the police. “My parents... Oh God, my parents!” A watery blur clouded her vision. “My parents! What have I done?” The little girls ran past her, while Ethan urged her down the steps. “Come on, De.” He grabbed her hand to drag her in his wake. I like grandmums, I like grandmums pounded in her head as Ethan rushed them to the truck. No wonder he hadn’t protested or yelled. The grandmum he knew only meant good things for him. Not like her mother. No, not like her mother.

Tears flowed down her cheeks. Her mother had been right about her. In a moment of sexual weakness she’d lost her baby. As if reading her mind, he tried to sooth her. “This isn’t your fault.” Denae whimpered in distress. He shoved her in and climbed in after her. The engine roared to life. On the road, he squeezed her hand. “Shh...calm down, luv.” His fingers tightened once more. “Nate’s going to be fine. Just fine.” Gripping the steering wheel in two hands, the truck accelerated. “He likes grandmums.” Her baby had been thinking about presents and puppies... Oh, God, what did they want with her baby? They’d made it clear when she’d seen them last they wanted nothing more to do with her...ever. Ethan didn’t say anything, only forced the truck to lurch forward.

Chapter Eight

––––––––

Ethan’s heart stayed in his throat as he kept the truck on the road. Dust flew up as they traveled along. No, this wasn’t De’s fault. This was his. Fuck! He’d been caught up in De’s sweetness. He’d been caught up in the way she made him feel and hadn’t seen the little mate swiped. Fuck. His fault. He’d abandoned De once. Fear knotted in his gut. He’d failed his son once. He couldn’t, wouldn’t fail Nate again. Nate couldn’t be far ahead of them. No more than five minutes. Fuck! One minute Abbey had been trying to take the boy’s hat, the next, the little mate was gone. Fucking gone. Without taking his gaze from the vehicle they followed, he reached over to squeeze De’s hand. “We’ll catch up to them.” Under her breath, he heard her prayers. “Our son’s going to be okay.” Nate would be fine. He had to be. His hand gripped the wheel so tightly it hurt. After a squeeze to her fingers, he released her hand. Christ, what if they put Nate out of the car and a snake mistook him for a herpetologist? Australians didn’t get bit by snakes. Fools who played with them did. Curious children who liked them got bit. Besides the whackers who’d taken his son doing harm to him, and the sun baking Nate’s tender skin, that was his biggest worry.

Tension ached in his back, along his neck. Nate was so small. So helpless. What did they want him for? He was just a child. Thankfully, they weren’t near salt crocs’ territory. No, they’d be close to the predators back home in Cairns. Salties ate people. Huge, cunning, mean, smart and bloody unpredictable predators. While tourists tended to be the main course, Nate would be the perfect appetizer. Still, freshies, though small and shy fish eaters, would turn on you if you bothered them. Christ, mate, stop giving yourself more worries. Nausea churned in his belly. Nate wouldn’t be bait for any reptile. Soon enough he’d teach his son some common sense about the Outback. Right now, they had to get him back from the whackers who taken him. Fuck! Once they got Nate back he’d never let the boy out of his sight. He didn’t know how Cohen stood it, worrying over not one ankle biter, but two. One child was plenty. After hitting a rut in the rough road, his foot laid the pedal down on the floor and held it there. From behind them, a siren wailed. In the distance, he heard the unmistakable sound of airplane engines. They were loud as hell. Miller. His brother and cousins had to be up in the sky by now. He hunkered down trying to see which direction they came from and, more importantly, where they were headed. “There!” De pointed. In the distance along the road ahead of them, dust rose, billowing up from a racing car. Out here the natives knew enough to take care of their tires. At the speed it was traveling, Nate had to be in that vehicle. “Come on.” Desperate, he put more weight on his foot. Even knowing the truck

wasn’t capable of going any faster, he pressed with all his might. He had to save his son. He’d not fail his son ever again. On a glance he noted De’s tear stained face. “This isn’t your fault, luv.” He concentrated on the road. “I know. I know.” She released a shaky breath. “Ethan?” “Eh?” His body trembled from the pent up tension in his muscles. “It’s not your fault either.” He moaned, knotted a fist. “Damn if it doesn’t feel like it is.” “It’s not.” Another breath shuddered through her. “Just get him back for us.” “That I’m going to do.” Heavy footed, he worked to get the truck to move faster. It was useless. The planes were a different matter. They could go as fast as they wanted. Well, far faster than a rig on a rough road. Three planes veered into view, zipping across the sky. They headed straight for the car in front of them. In moments the bush planes had dropped into a formation in front of the speeding car. Ethan didn’t dare blink as the planes bounced low in the sky. His breath caught as their formation positioned ahead of the fleeing car. Suddenly the one in the middle dropped down to scrape over the road. The car tapped its brakes. “Oh my God!” De clutched the dashboard. “God, what are they doing?” She turned, frightened. Tear-filled green eyes glanced his way. “They’re going to try and get the car stopped.” Brake lights flashed over and over to avoid a collision as the plane performed the trick.

A shudder racked his body. Was attempting to stop the car reckless? Would the car wreck to get away from the planes? In trying to save Nate, would they watch him wreck in front of their eyes? White-knuckled, he gripped the steering wheel. No. Knock it off, mate. Don’t worry about anything other than getting Nate back. When the car stopped it’d be his turn to take action. “Oh, God.” De didn’t take her gaze from the scene unfolding before them. In an attempt to escape the planes, the car turned sharply onto a gravel road. Ethan followed and noted the decrease in their speed. They were able to take some ground, getting closer to those that had Nate. Despite the maneuver, the planes were back in position within heartbeats. Next time the plane came down, it stayed on the ground longer. The car fishtailed. “They’re going to make the car wreck!” De moaned, clutching the dashboard. Behind them, the siren grew closer. In the review mirror, he caught sight of the police’s jeep closing in. Abruptly, the middle plane touched down again and forced the car to get dangerously close. An ache beat in his jaw from his clenched teeth. Anxiousness twisted in his guts. Mad as hell, he kept his foot heavy on the pedal. Even though Miller was a bloody fine pilot, the stunt his brother pulled was dangerous. There was a lot of coordination going on among the planes. What if one of the two planes flanking M clipped a wing? What if the freaks that’d taken Nate refused to stop? What if they’d kill themselves rather than give up and took little Nate with them? Ethan swallowed past the fear. The little mate would make it out all right. He had to.

Gravel flew as tires squealed. Swinging right, the car tried to get by the plane, but a second plane got in its way. The car swerved once more. “Oh, Ethan...please let him be okay.” Nate’s fine. He’s going to be just fine. No matter which way the car darted, the planes were there. Time and again, their speed dropped. He kept control of the truck as everyone was forced to stop. The two flanking planes banked up into the sky and flew off. Ethan cut the engine as soon as the truck was in park. “Stay here!” He grabbed the gun that was kept in the glove box for emergencies before heading to the car. The siren grew loud as the constable approached. Dust coated the windows as he approached the idling vehicle. “Nate?” Ethan’s hip bumped the side of the car. “Everything’s going to be fine, mate.” Everything had to be fine, Up close he saw two people in the front seat. Without caring for his own safety, he yanked the driver’s side open. “Get the fuck out!” When the older man didn’t move fast enough, he pulled the man from the seat. He had to find his son. A quick glance showed a woman crying hysterically in the enger side. Nate stared up from the floor of the back seat with wide, tear-filled blue eyes. “I don’t like this grandmum.” Relief sharp in his mind, Ethan barely heard him as he dragged the whacker along, to slam him into the car. He wanted to get Nate out of the car, but he needed to focus on the parents. Had to keep him safe until backup arrived. “We had to save the boy from that harlot!” Spittle sprayed from the man’s lips. “She’ll soil him with her sins!”

“Shut the fuck up.” Ethan shook from the anger raging through him. These were De’s parents. He’d never met such a pair of freaks before. What she must have gone through as a child. As a teen. A young woman. “We saw the whore had taken up with not one of you Thorns—” Screaming, the woman jumped out of the car, “—but two! Slutting herself out on that front porch!” What, had they come by and seen De with him at Cohen’s house? Christ. He exhaled, searched for a measure of calmness. “Nate?” Denae ran up to the car just as Miller wrapped his arms around the woman who had to be De’s mother. “It’s all right, baby.” She pulled the back door open to collect their son. Ethan kept the gun pointed at the old man’s chest. Muscles knotted under the strain. Christ, help him. He’d never been so tempted to shoot someone before. “Scarlet woman! Jezebel! Slut!” The woman kicked at Miller. “Let us save him! It’s too late for her!” De cradled Nate protectively against the slurs. “Without our guidance, he’ll remain the devil’s spawn!” Constable Morgans appeared at his side “Mate, let’s get these two into the jeep. We’re blocking traffic.” Ethan grunted at Steve’s attempt at a joke. With force, De’s father was turned around so handcuffs could be put on him. “You’re making a mistake! We’re good people!” “Right neighborly behavior, if you ask me.” Morgans’ mouth twisted. “Move, you arse.” Her mother continued to fight and struggle until she was secured in the handcuffs. Ethan did his best to ignore her continued slurs of De.

Though his heart still hammered, some stress left his muscles only to clog his throat. Almost too weak to walk, he turned away, leaving Miller to get the car off the road. They’d found him. Nate was all right. Shaking, he climbed back into the cab of the truck. He ruffled Nate’s hair, and his son peeked at him from De’s arms. His hand slipped to De’s tear-stained cheek. She turned her head and kissed his fingertips. “You didn’t abandon either of us. If you’d known about him you’d have been there from the first moment.” Her mouth trembled. “I know that.” “I’d have been there.” His breath rough, he nodded. Nothing would’ve stopped him from being responsible. Not even his guilt over hurting a brother he’d always looked up to. Nate was his. “Can I hold him?” Christ, he needed to hold him. “Yes.” She nodded, scooting over to his side. “It’s time I shared.” Green eyes met his over their son’s head. “Nate, hop over to Daddy’s lap.” Daddy. “Hey, little mate.” Tears burning the back of his eyes, he ducked his head to inhale Nate’s scent as he slid into his embrace. “I like Daddy.” Nate’s arms clung to his neck. A knot caught in his throat. Daddy. Damn if he didn’t cry at hearing his son call him Daddy.

––––––––

In the low light of the bedroom, Denae watched Nate sleep beside her on the

bed. She didn’t want to leave him. What a God-awful day it’d been. Gently, she stroked his blond hair, so much like his father’s. Weight behind her back caused her to shift. Ethan worked an arm under her head. “De?” She sighed, using him like a pillow. The hard planes of his body, the muscular contours molded to her. Oh, now this she could get used to. Her baby on one side. Her man on the other. Her man. Shyly she ducked her head. Yes, she could get used to this. Wanted to get used to having Ethan there with her. “You all right, luv?” His protective strength warmed her up. “I don’t know.” Ethan grunted. No words came to explain the turmoil she was going through. Though relieved to have her son safely back, the guilt still ate at her insides. Though Ethan had assured her it wasn’t her fault her heart still ached. “You’ve been quiet.” “I...I shouldn’t have come out here.” Because of her, Nate had been exposed to danger. She’d known what she was bringing him close to. Should’ve taken better care to protect him. “Shh, luv.” Ethan’s arm tightened around her middle. “You’re not responsible for what those whackers did.” “My parents...” Her limbs felt so weak. They had all day. “I knew what they were like.” Though she hadn’t ever imagined they’d steal Nate the way they had. “How could they have done something so horrible?” So frightening? “Shh, put them out of your mind.” His thumb made soothing circular motions. “They’ll never get close to Nate again.” His breath warmed her ear. His voice confident. Determined. “Not ever, I swear it.” “I know.” And she did know. A court would deal with them. All she had to do

was get past the fear of what they’d put her through. What her baby had gone through. What they’d have done to Nate. With Ethan at her side, she’d be able to put anything behind her. With his strong arms around her, the trial ahead would be easy. With his... Stop this... You share a son with him. Nothing more. Well, besides the great sex they’d shared now and in the past. “Luv?” Ethan eased away to lay her flat on her back. He braced himself on his elbow. “I want to show you something.” Using his free hand, he took a folded piece of paper from his pocket. “Take a look at this.” Curious, she accepted the paper and unfolded it. Quickly, she scanned the information. It was an on-line brochure of a wedding chapel in Las Vegas. Not understanding, she blinked up at him. “Did you look at the date?” “Hmm?” Again, she glanced at the paper. This time she peered at the date in the corner of the document. Her heart caught only to race a frantic pace. The paper had been printed during the time they’d spent together. “Ethan....” “Wait.” A breath shuddered in his chest. “Listen, I never said this to you before... I’ve never said this...ever...” “Ethan.” Denae shook her head. He couldn’t possibly feel the way she did about him. The way she’d always felt... “I’ve been carrying that piece of paper around in my wallet.” His throat worked. “To remind me of what I’d lost. What I’d tossed away. I’d been bloody serious about you, luv.” “Oh, Ethan.” Surely, he hadn’t... “I love you, De.” His lashes lowered. “Before I had my pig arse moment I’d

been planning to ask you to be my missus. I shouldn’t have let you go.” Unable to speak, she looked at the paper. Tears blurred her vision. “Everything had been moving so fast for us.” He caught her cheek in his hand. “But I knew in my gut it was the real deal. Christ, Mum spent our teen years warning us to be on the lookout for the real deal.” His thumb caressed her cheek. “You came into my life like a riptide. One I didn’t want to escape.” “Oh, Ethan.” She couldn’t breathe and the man expected her to speak. Instead, more tears burned her eyes. “I’m not letting you go again.” He pressed a kiss to her lips. “I gotta hear you say it, luv.” She blinked again. “Say what?” “Yes.” He kissed her again. His lips lingered over hers. So warm and gentle. “Yes, you want to be my missus.” “Ethan.” Her mouth trembled into a smile. “Was that a proposal?” “Eh, it was.” His nostrils flared. “I love you.” She caressed his darkened jaw line. “I’ve loved you since you first asked me to dance.” Inhaling, she tried to relax. “But I’m...I’m scared.” “Afraid of what?” “I don’t know exactly.” She shook her head. “I guess I still have things to deal with.” “I’m here, De.” He turned his head to kiss her palm, sending a shiver through her. “Through anything. We’ll face whatever comes up together. I know where my loyalties are now.” She moaned as he placed a second lingering kiss on her skin. “You love me, right?” “Yes.” She nodded. “Yes I do.” Her heart swelled with how easy the answer had

come. “Not only do I love you...I’m in love with you.” She’d always been. “I’m a bloody lucky bloke.” He groaned and kissed her once more before lifting his head. “Forgive me for what I’m about to do.” Denae stared, mouth agape. “Mum!” His voiced carried through the house. Nate shifted in his sleep. Realizing his intent, she gasped. “Ethan! Don’t you dare.” A sexy grin flashed her way just before his chest heaved. “Mum!” “I’m coming!” Footfalls neared. She moaned, pushing at his chest. “What is it?” Maree stopped at the side of the bed. Her hands rested on her hips. “Were you trying to wake Natey?” “No, Mum.” Ethan snatched the paper from De’s trembling hand and ed it over to Maree. Denae gasped, watching as Maree’s eyes widened. “Mum, can you believe this is where De wants us to marry?” Oh, this needed payback. At the moment she could do no more than blink in shock. Maree shook her head. “This will never, never do.” A happy smile spread across her face, softening some signs of aging. “A wedding. This is excellent news.” Maree leaned over and kissed Nate, then Denae. “I’m so happy for you. For us all.” What could she possibly say? So De smiled and itted the truth. “Me too.” She was going to marry the man of her dreams. “I’ll have to call Alba right away.”

“Wait, Maree...” She pushed up on her elbows. “I need a favor.” “Anything.” “Earlier in the week, Miller started a fight with Ethan.” It was a half-truth. Though the bloke had fully participated in the brawl. Maree sucked in a breath. “He didn’t.” “He did. I couldn’t go through with this wedding knowing I’d somehow come between them.” “Oh, you just leave Miller Eugene to me.” Maree patted her chest over her heart. No sooner did Maree clear the doorway than Ethan laughed. “Christ, sheila, do you know the trouble you’ve caused M?” “Yes, I do.” She ed Maree’s personality. The woman loved her boys. She wouldn’t put up with dissention between them. Especially not with a coming marriage. Resting back on the bed, she huffed, “And do you know what kind of trouble you’ve just caused us?” Maree would want to handle every little detail of their wedding. Of course, Maree would be involved in ways that her own mother never would have. A slight smile tugged at her mouth. Maybe it wouldn’t be that bad. “So, luv, you’re agreeing to be my missus?” She laughed, pulling him down for a kiss. “Yes, I am.” Denae Thorn sounded lovely. “But you’d better know I’m going to get Paige involved.” Paige would intercede on her behalf and keep Maree from spinning too out of control. “Oh, luv.” He groaned. “Maybe we should sneak off to Vegas. Imagine an Elvis impersonator marrying us.” He waggled his eyebrows. Denae sighed as liquid heat spread along her skin. “Do you think we can? I’ve always wanted to cross the pond.” Ethan dipped his head, his hair fell forward. His greedy mouth settled over hers,

teasing her senseless. “Mummy?” Nate interrupted a kiss. Detangling herself from Ethan she rolled over to face their son. “Sorry, we didn’t mean to wake you.” “I like Daddy.” Nate grinned, before snuggling close. “Same here, mate.” Ethan ruffled Nate’s hair. “Same here.” “I’m so glad you do.” She held Nate close with Ethan’s arms wrapped around them both. Nate had already drifted back to sleep. But Ethan’s lips heated the side of her neck. How very lucky she’d gotten. “I love you, Ethan.”

If you enjoyed reading True Blue Love, please take a moment to leave a short review where you purchased it or simply use the rating system already in place. Your will be appreciated.

Also, by Melissa Combs

True Blue Love Psychic Footsteps Gallant Forbidden Savior Dragons of Doom Runpel’s Claim Cursed by Moonlight Heart on his Sleeve Winning Bess And on the sexier side of romance: Predator Quintet Perfect Surrender Leashed His Pleasure Stroke Me Gamer Love

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

JOURNEYS OF LOVE

––––––––

Melissa writes for herself and creates her worlds for her characters. Besides writing under her own name, she’s collaborated under Melany Logen with Mechele Armstrong. She has dual MAs in English and creative writing. She has been interested in the human psyche and paranormal activities since she gained eyesight at the age of twenty-two. She advocates for the blind. To learn more about Melissa and her work, visit her at one of her online hotspots: Newsletter | Facebook | Instagram | Website | Blog | Twitter