Page 23 of Jet

Without realizing it,I wrap my arms around her and she does the same to me. We cling to one another and I find comfort in her touch. It’s odd, but it feels good at the same time. It’s something I’ve only ever felt with one other person, my mom.

“The only person who knows about my mother is Lucas.”

“You’re secret is safe with me. I’d never betray your trust, just like I know you’re not the kind of guy who would gloat about what happened to me here today.” She’s right. I might be a dick, but I’d never intentionally humiliate someone just for a laugh. Not my style.

“Let’s get you dressed and back in bed. How’s the headache?” Trying to pretend she doesn’t have an effect on me is impossible. My cock’s straining through the wet fabric of my briefs as I peel the towel from her damp skin. She’s dressing herself with just a little guidance from me when she stands up to put on her yoga pants.

“It’s still there but in the background. The shower was a lifesaver, thank you.” I’d love to respond with, “My pleasure,” since I was able to touch her in places I only dreamed about. This girl is drop-dead gorgeous and so out of my league it isn’t funny. I’m desperate to keep busy since I want to strip her down and worship every inch of her body. Fuck, I haven’t craved anyone like this in so damn long.

I take my time switching over the clothes then grab what I need. As I begin making the bed, I watch her struggle to stand. She’s so damn stubborn and independent that she hates someone doing something for her. “I swear if you try walking over here I’m going to spank you.” Her mouth forms a circle and she sputters something unintelligible. Might be for the best. I’d love nothing more than to mark her tight ass with my hand.

After I’ve finished, I pick her up and carry her to the bed. Placing her gently on the nice clean sheets. It’s all worth it when a satisfied groan leaves her lips. “Thank you. I’m sure I’ll sleep the rest of the night. You can take my car and go home, we can swap out tomorrow.”

“Nope, not going anywhere. Can I get you some tea, crackers, or something to eat?” I’m asking her and it’s not my house so I haven’t a fucking clue what’s in her kitchen.

“Crackers sound good, but I have no tea. Everything is in the pantry. Grab whatever you want. I’m sure you’re starving.” I hadn’t thought about it but I really am.

“Coming right up. Not only am I a phenomenal dishwasher, but I can whip up a mean snack. Just wait and see.” There, a tiny smile proves she’s starting to feel better. I can’t help wondering if we’ll be back to butting heads tomorrow.

Her kitchen is every cook’s wet dream. State-of-the-art everything. This townhouse doesn’t look too old so that might be why. I thought my apartment was nice but after seeing this, I’m jealous. No lie, but for the amount of time I spend there it serves its purpose. Especially now that we’ve been on tour.

I grab a fancy tray and cut up cheese and salami, and add some crackers and fruit from a bowl on the table. The salami is for me, Quinn won’t be able to digest something so greasy. After grabbing a few bottles of water, I walk back to the bedroom and find her fast asleep. I knew she was fighting it, but she needs to rest. I sit down on my favorite chair and nibble at the snacks I brought. It’s just enough to sate my hunger, for food, but not for her.

I’m mesmerized by her beauty, and everything about her. Willow was correct in her assumption that I had a crush on Quinn from the very first day. It was one of the reasons I treated her with disdain. I knew she’d be the type of woman I’d fall hard and fast over, but I refuse to go there. I have absolutely nothing to offer her.

Sometimes loving someone just isn’t enough.

A part of me wants to run, the other wants to stay close by her side. Every damn day and twice on Sundays. Something my mom used to say. I never understood why, but it stuck. She was my world and I would have gladly died in her place if I could have. She was a light too bright to be snuffed out so soon. I, on the other hand, only had my music. Even to this day, that’s all I’ll ever have.

I’m still stunned that I confided in Quinn about my mother’s death. Now the three of us know and I kinda like the fact that someone else knows. It’s almost as if I don’t have to carry the weight of the world anymore. Stupid, I know, since Quinn never met my mom, but if she did, I’m sure they would have loved each other. Maybe that’s why I’m drawn to Quinn. She has a radiance about her, too.

Placing the tray on the table, I stride over to the bed and sit on the edge. She’s sleeping so soundly, I hate to disturb her. I can’t stop wondering how she’d feel if she found me gone when she woke. Relieved, most likely. Yeah, I sense she’s attracted to me even though she works closely with other bands. Which is all the more reason to leave, but I’ve never been good at doing the right thing. So I curl up behind her and pull her close. Her back to my front. We’re spooning and it’s unlike anything I’ve ever experienced before.

Just for tonight, I don’t need to sleep on the floor. I’m going to sleep beside a woman who accepts me for who I am. The good, the bad, and the ugly. Even if she doesn’t know my truth, I have a feeling she wouldn’t judge me or treat me any differently. It’s going to be a long time before I tell anyone about my past, if ever. I just pray that Joseph P. Lawless doesn’t take that choice away from me. Otherwise, I might be on the run just like I was over thirteen years ago.

* * *

Quinn

I’m content whenI wake up to a warm body wrapped around me. It’s been so long that I’d forgotten what it felt like to be all tangled up with someone first thing in the morning. Knowing it’s Jet just makes it all the better. I thought he’d take me up on my offer and cut and run, but he stayed. Maybe Willow was right. He does like me after all. Which makes me giddy. Forget what I said earlier about being involved with another rockstar. Clearly they’re not all the same. And I know Jet’s demons don’t even compare to anyone else’s.

As much as I’d love to stay here longer, my bladder is protesting. The moment I try to escape, his arms grow tighter. “Mm, stay. I’m not ready to get up yet.”

Did he forget where he is? He must have because he wouldn’t want to snuggle with me in the morning. Morning? No, no, no, I have a meeting at eight. “Jet, I need to go, it’s—”

“It’s five in the morning. You have plenty of time so just stay here for a few more minutes. Please.” I want to ask, “What did you do with Jet?”

“Okay, but only for a little longer. I’m not sure how steady I’ll be after yesterday.” His eyelids flutter open and I’m greeted with the windows to his soul. Bright, amused, and lustful. I’d like to stay but I got to go. “I need to go to the little girl’s room.” A big sigh and then he opens his arms wide.

“Hurry back.” Um, if I did then I have a feeling we’d both be naked and I’d be riding his morning wood. Yep, how the hell do I unfeel that pressing against my back? I can’t and if I’m being honest, I don’t want to!

I feel his eyes on my back as I slowly make my way to the bathroom. I’m feeling better, just a bit unsteady. I do my business and when I bend over to brush my teeth, I feel his warmth against my back. Okay, why is he in here with me?

“Not everyone has extra toothbrushes hanging around so I’m just going to put a little on my finger. No biggie.” Okay, I admit, I like the fact he’s checking up on me. It’s nice and refreshing. Opening the top drawer, I grab a pack and hand it to him.

“Thanks. Is this a hint that you have a lot of overnight guests?” I almost choke on my toothpaste.

“No. When they’re on sale, I stock up. Not that it’s any of your business.”

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