Chapter Twenty-Four

Three days later “I’ll take it. Set up the closing date as soon as possible. I have plans for that land.”

“Will do.”

Night clicked off the call, smiling up at his mother. “We got it.”

She grinned in return. “Was there any question after you marched right into the real estate office and demanded to immediately speak to the agent in charge of the place?”

“Never let it be said I dragged my feet when an opportunity arrives.”

He’d caught a glimpse of the posted sign on the way home from Summer’s house. As the land bordered hers and the house appeared in good shape, he’d counted his lucky stars, strode into the office, and hurried the agent to take him on a viewing of the property that very day. He liked what he’d seen, brought his mother back later on the same day then made a decision on the spot, with her blessing. The brick house suited their needs and the eighty acres of surrounding pasture gave him ample opportunity to follow an old dream—horse ownership. The farm even had a new barn just to the east of the house, perfect for a small herd.

Everything clicked into place and felt right at the same time. As if fate had nudged him along this new path to happiness.

“Thank you, Colton. I know you did this for me as much as anyone.” She pulled her walker closer and prepared to stand.

He hurried to her side, resisted the urge to help, but made sure to be close just in case. Summer’s advice had stuck since the first day.

“I think we’ve both been needing a change.” He winked at her. “Besides, you need more privacy to be with the new man in your life.”

She blushed like a teen. He chuckled, immensely happy she’d finally found a good man, one she’d met at group rehab therapy, who put a bounce in her step and a smile on her face. Walter might be knocking on the door of seventy-four with a recent knee replacement like hers, but he exuded gentlemanly ways, gentleness, and a wry sense of humor—a plus in Night’s book. His mother had waited far too long to fall for another man.

At least this one moved at her speed. Slow. He bit back a chuckle. While his mother enjoyed the blooming romance, he sat back and watched with wonder and full support. Dating in the seventh decade differed from his experience with Summer. Less physical and more companionship for the seniors, but he didn’t think that made any difference in their feelings. Most likely expectations and likes changed over time.

Not that he could ever imagine a stage in his life where he wouldn’t want Summer—naked, willing, moist, and ready for the taking.

“Oh, good grief. You’re thinking of sex again.” His mother eyed him like a third grade teacher staring at an unruly student.

He snorted, not bothering to deny the accusations. She could see right through any lie he tossed out anyway. “I’m a man. It goes with the territory.”

“Uh huh.” She stood up without incident and started toward the kitchen. “Let’s just hope all that randy-ness nets me some grandchildren.”

She toddled through the doorway and out of his immediate sight, leaving him alone with his thoughts—of Summer. And, what carnal activities he could persuade her to participate in this evening.

Before he could get too carried away, the doorbell rang.

Frowning, he automatically checked his handgun stashed in the holster on his back then walked to the front of the house. Checking through the peep hole, he quickly unlocked the door, curiosity running wild. “Can I help you, officers?”

Two uniformed officers stood on the front porch, both with serious expressions, as if they hated their assignment and would prefer to be elsewhere.

“Are you Colton Kensington?”

“Yeah.”

Night stared at the men, trying to read their intentions, but had little luck. Since he hadn’t committed any crimes officially, he had no clue why they would show up at his doorstep.

The squeak of wheels garnered his attention. Swiveling, he caught sight of his mother returning from the kitchen, a bottle of sweet tea in hand. “What’s going on?”

“Felina Kensington?” The taller of the two men asked.

“Yes?”

The officers shared a look then gestured toward the couch. “Can we come in for a minute? I have something to tell you. It might be easier if you had a seat.”

Worry ate at Night’s gut. As much as he wanted them to simply spit out what they had to say, he understood their reasoning. Get his mother settled then go from there.

She made her way to the recliner then sat with a hand from Night. He took a position between her and the officers instinctively and protectively, knowing something upsetting would come their way in a matter of seconds.

The cops stepped into the room, but didn’t bother to sit. Instead, they folded their hands in front of their stomachs and took a deep breath, their gazes flicking from Night to his mother.

“Do you know a Tom Kensington?”

His mother didn’t hesitate. “My ex-husband and father to my son.”

The shorter officer nodded. “I’m sorry to report that he was found dead this morning.”

She gasped, but didn’t look away. “How did he die?”

“Natural causes, according to the coroner. No signs of a struggle or anything.”

Night considered the information and oddly felt no remorse, only relief. Since he’d never really known the man, the announcement hit him like a person learning of the death of a distant relative they never knew existed. With the exception that never again could Tom’s loose lips send trouble their way.

Glancing down, he took his mother’s hand in his and watched her face for clues. She appeared just as reconciled as he. Considering everything the bastard had put her through, Night was glad she could finally have peace with his passing.

She lifted her chin and looked at the officers. “Thank you for delivering the news.”

“You’re welcome, ma’am. Sorry we had to trouble you with such.” They turned to leave.

Night followed, thanked them again then shut the door in their wake. Leaning against the barrier, he met his mother’s gaze. “Are you okay?”

“Yes. It’s a shock, mind you. But, liberating as well.” She paused then bobbed her head. “Good riddance.”

Not for the first time, Night admired her resiliency through the tough obstacles of life. His respect for her only grew at her easy acceptance from this latest twist. “Want me to speak with the funeral home?”

For a moment she seemed to contemplate the question. “No. The man I loved died decades ago. So, let’s let this one be.”

He walked across the room, gave his mother a hug, and kissed her cheek. “Did I ever tell you how proud I am of you?”

She beamed. “Oh, now and again. But no more than I am of you.” She drew in a deep breath. “So, when are you going to tell Summer about your newest purchase?”

He grinned and considered her question. “Soon, I think. Very soon.”

“Good, because I want grand babies and I’m not getting any younger.” She shot him an expression full of stubborn determination.

Night didn’t dare argue. She always won. Besides, she wasn’t demanding anything he didn’t want for himself. In the future. After he and Summer had settled on a few things.

“In fact, you should go over there tonight. Tell her your plans. Stay all night.”

Night arched an eyebrow at his mother’s obvious hint. “You’re trying to get rid of me?”

She waved her hand. “I’d never do that. However, you and Summer need some quality time together. Just like Walter and me.”

He easily put two and two together. His mother and her new beau wanted to be alone. Not that he could blame them. Hell, he sought every opportunity to be with Summer as possible. Yet, he couldn’t resist needling his mother, just a tiny bit. He forced a stern expression on his face. “I see. Looks like tonight will be a good time to clean my guns.”

“Colton Kensington! You’ll do no such thing!” She frowned up at him and waved her finger. “You’re not about to scare off my first boyfriend in forever.”

A chuckle escaped before he burst out laughing. “Don’t worry, Mom. I’ll even call before coming home, just so I don’t see things my mind isn’t prepared to handle.”

She grinned wickedly. “That’s better.” A pause followed before she patted his arm. “You were always the bright spot in my life. Still are.”

He felt the warmth of her words and gave her a squeeze. “And you’re the best mother a man could ever have.”

“Just remember that when I elope.”

She tittered, stood up, then walked off leaving Night shaking his head in bemusement.

* * * *

Night watched Summer step out of her car, grab her purse, and head toward the front porch where he sat on the swing, waiting. He could have picked the lock or dug her spare key out from under the large rock he’d discovered earlier, but refrained. He didn’t want to overstep his bounds or make her uncomfortable, especially after they’d just made the initial steps into intimacy.

His groin tightened at the memory of that splendid day where he’d spent hours in the throes of passion with a naïve, but exuberant Summer.

She bit her lip. That, along with the way she shifted her weight from foot to foot, spoke of nervousness. He studied her carefully, seeking the source. Maybe she’d re-lived the recent event and his actions had spooked her. More than one woman couldn’t handle the violence he carried in check most of the time. He’d thought Summer had passed that point in their relationship, but perhaps seeing him in action had given her pause and made her rethink things. An inexperienced woman could easily grow antsy, once she considered her vulnerability with a much bigger, stronger man. Hell, any woman might hesitate to jump in bed with him after he took down a criminal right in front of them. Concern tightened his shoulders.

No way to know unless he asked. “You’re rattled. What’s wrong?”

She peeked up at her coyly through her lashes. “Nothing wrong, per se…”

“It’s something. You’re like a puppy waiting to leap out of her kennel.” He ran one hand through his hair and waited, hoping he’d read her wrong.

“I’ve had some time to think, driving from patient to patient today.”

“And?”

“And, well…” She blew out a breath. “This is harder to say than I thought.”

He held perfectly still and waited. “Whatever it is, just say it.”

She met his gaze. “I’ve been thinking of you all day. And what we did.”

Seconds ticked by, the longest of his life.

“I’ve read how much men enjoy oral sex and well…I wanted to give it a try. Please you. Taste you. Would you mind?” The remaining words blurted out as if she might lose her nerve if she spaced them out.

Relief cascaded over him quickly, followed by a healthy dose of longing. If he hadn’t already been hard as a rock just observing the sway of her hips as she walked up to him, her erotic ramblings would have done the deed. He watched a blush creep over her face as she found the porch under her feet enthralling.

He chuckled at the irony. His newfound sex partner had just asked if she could give him a blow job and had now turned pink as a rose with embarrassment. If she only knew how rare and special she was and how these sexy little moments touched him to his very soul.

Still, he had to make sure. After striding forward, he cupped her cheek and lifted until she looked him in the eyes. “You aren’t frightened of me?”

A frown crossed her features. “No. Why would I be?”

He shrugged. “Being there when I took down that guy. It’s only a small part of what I do. The violence is more than some people can take.”

She grinned mischievously. “First of all, I already find you a hero. Seeing you in action only cemented my feelings on that. Secondly, poor you. It’s got to be hard being bigger and stronger than everyone else. Always worrying about bruising little dainty ladies like me.”

He snorted at her playfulness. “Teasing me will get you carried to the bedroom.”

She arched an eyebrow as her eyes twinkled. “Going all Navajo warrior on me?”

He scooped her up and tossed her over his shoulder, smacking her upturned bottom when she kicked. “Oh yeah.”

He opened the door with his free hand then stepped in. Murphy hurried out of the door and down the front steps. Night held his prize, fondled her rear and waited for the dog to do her business. The second she returned, he closed the door, flipped the lock, then headed to the bedroom. “I would have kidnapped you way back then, taken you to my hogan, and deposited you there for my keeping.”

“I would have made your life miserable.” She huffed and half-heartedly struggled.

“You might have tried, but I would have tamed you.” Arriving at the bed, he dropped her in the center, grinning at her bewildered expression.

“Tamed me?”

“Yeah. Tamed you with my kisses. My loving. Turned you into my devoted love slave.”

She rolled her eyes then tittered. “No ego there.”

“A man earns a big ego when he has the skills and abilities to back up his words.” He tugged on the hem of her scrub top, pulled it over her head then tossed it aside. Taking a moment to enjoy the feel of her bra clad breasts, he weighed the modest parts then unsnapped the front hook on her bra, removing the unwanted item and dropping it to the floor. Her pants and underwear followed with an assist from Summer, who lifted her hips at the appropriate time.

Soon, she sat in the center of the bed naked. He stared at her beauty while making short work of his own clothes. Already his dick throbbed and he hadn’t fulfilled her wishes yet.

After climbing on the bed, he positioned himself lying alongside her, his head to her feet. Grasping her hips, he rolled and tugged until she rested atop his body, her legs splayed on either side of his chest.

He felt as much as heard her gasp.

“Come on, baby. My cock aches for your touch. Your mouth. Let me eat you while you suck me.”

She didn’t bother answering, but wrapped a hand around his rod, angled it, then licked the tip.

He bit back a groan at the first tentative touch, steeling himself for more delectable torture yet to come.

Sucking in air, he nudged her back, until her glistening pink lips rested just above his mouth. Pressing down on her lower back, he encouraged her to drop down. Once she did, he opened wide and licked a trail up the center and straight to her hidden clit.

She jerked then pressed closer, at the same time she engulfed his cock in her hot mouth, flicking her tongue all around the head as if begging for a taste of his cum. Her fingers found his balls, lightly caressing and plumping, sending sharp spikes of pleasure surging through his body. While her touch might have lacked practice, she didn’t lack for enthusiasm and open curiosity. Over and over again, she laved him, bobbing her head while taking a smidgen more.

He rewarded her by sticking his tongue into her folds, seeking a sample of her overflowing juices. For each dab of her tongue, he matched her with a thrust of his first two fingers combined with a generous suckling of her tender labia and a brief brushing of her taut clit.

Sexy sounds carried from her throat across the room, adding fuel to his already raging inferno.

She traced the underside of his cock, sending shards of hot spice shooting through him, revving up his arousal all the more before worrying the slit once more.

Forcing himself to focus on the task at hand, he centered his attention on her nub, swirling and nibbling gently.

A loud whine caressed his erection as she wiggled to get closer, a testament to her high state of need.

He sucked her clit then braced himself as her muscles began to tense, realizing she approached the point of no return. Sharp cries carried to his ears as she trembled under his tender onslaught.

He jerked, unable to still his body’s quest for more.

She took the hint, added vacuum to her attentions then lapped at him.

Night saw stars and poured everything he had into bringing her to a rip roaring climax with his mouth. He lapped. He sucked. He nuzzled. All the while, he fucked her with his fingers, needing her to come.

A whimper and the release of his flesh came as his only warning. The next instant, her pelvis lurched, forcing him to wrap an arm around her lower back in order to hold her still and centered on his hungry mouth. Determinedly, he rode out her orgasm, still showering her taut clit with affection. Only when she shivered and flinched, did he let up, releasing his snug hold and easing back to kiss her inner thighs.

She sighed, the puff of air blowing over his sensitized tip.

Before he could decide whether to nudge her to continue with the superb blow job or roll over and search for a condom, she grasped his erection, and began sucking as if there was no tomorrow. His marginally cooled ardor skyrocketed.

He grunted and lifted, so close to the peak, he could feel the burn of fire. Summer left him teetering for a split second before skimming the slit with the tip of her tongue, burrowing against the area, then taking the whole head into her mouth.

“Oh, fuck.” The first spasm zinged from his balls and up through his dick, only to stream into her mouth. She swallowed, the motion caressing his throbbing member, encouraging him to pulse over and over, rhythmic currents which seemed to go on endlessly as he rode the crests of rapture straight into bliss.

All too soon, sensitivity forced him to turn to the side, separating her eager mouth from his slowly deflating cock.

Adjusting her, he spooned behind her, wrapping her in his embrace, his chest to her back. Lazily, he kissed the nape of her neck, not quite ready to end the affection or take his hands from her lovely body. She didn’t stir, only leaned into him and slowly caught her breath.

“You okay?”

“Um hmmm.”

He heard the sultry sated note in her voice and grinned, knowing he’d pleased her.

I could get used to this. He savored the moment and realized he wanted to spend the rest of his days just like this. Cuddling after a great make-out session, basking in the aura of love.

Which reminded him of the news he needed to relate.

“Did you know the house and land next door are up for sale?”

She stretched then flipped over, rubbing her nose against his sprinkling of chest hairs. “Yeah. I noticed the sign a couple of days back.”

“What would you say if I were your new neighbor?”

Summer’s eyes widened as she stared at him. “You want the place?”

He couldn’t help but grin at the sudden burst of hope he spied in her expressive brown eyes. “More than that. They met my offer. We’re closing in a few days.”

Her mouth dropped open before she beamed. “You’re going to live next door?”

“Yep.”

She seemed to struggle with the concept for a moment longer before throwing her arms around his neck and hugging him tight. “I can’t wait. Now you can just walk over here at night and snuggle in bed with me.”

He chuckled. “Addicted to my lovemaking, huh?”

“More than you can imagine.” She kissed him and slid her fingers down his sides, setting off small cherry bombs in her wake. “Whether you know it or not, you’re the man of my dreams.” Her gaze met his. “I love you, Night.”

“Ditto.” He nuzzled her cheek. “Just remember not to shoot me when I sneak in your front door at night. The team might get a chuckle from such a thing, but I’m sure it would put a damper on our sex life.”

She laughed. “No worries. I’ll refrain from shooting until I make sure it’s my warrior coming to pay homage to his woman.”

“Homage?”

“Yep. Homage.”

Yeah, I can handle that. He smiled wide and pulled her body flush against his—more than satisfied with his life, his woman, and the brightness of their future together.