Page 14 of Heron's Flame

Heron frowned and slowly stood, tugging me closer. “We can’t have secrets like this. It won’t work, Rebel. Tell me so I understand.”

I started to pull away, and he sighed.

“Please.”

I imagine it wasn’t a word he said often. A man like him didn’t have to beg for anyone or anything. He was confident, sexy, and intelligent, with dark wavy hair and a smile that hinted at all the wicked thoughts in his head.

Women probably lined up for a chance in his bed. His jeans didn’t hide the generous bulge between those muscular thighs. I couldn’t avoid looking there when he sauntered through the bar. The man had a powerful presence and plenty of swagger.

“He was abusive,” I revealed in a soft tone. “Mental. Physical. I’ve got scars that aren’t all visible on my skin, Heron.”

“Fuck. Tell me where to find this cocksucker.”

Uh, no. “It doesn’t matter. I’m free. He’s long gone.”

Heron didn’t appear convinced. “He doesn’t get away with this. No fucking way.”

I loved that this big, rough biker wanted to be my champion. I dreamed of someone to come into my life and rescue me long before I found the courage to escape Paul’s abuse. “I don’t need that.”

His forehead lowered to mine as he stepped closer. “I don’t like it.”

“I didn’t think you would.”

“What’s his name?”

“Paul.”

“Last name,” Heron growled.

“This isn’t your fight, Heron. Let it go.”

He lifted his head to stare into my eyes. “Love, it’s my fight because you’re mine. It’s that simple. I won’t push it right now, but this conversation isn’t over.”

“Can we agree to drop it until a later time?”

“Yeah.”

“I mean it. Don’t go searching for him. No crazy, jealous, testosterone stuff. Okay?”

He tilted his head back and sighed. “Fine.”

“Thank you.”

“I need something from you in return.”

“What? A consolation prize for refraining from violence?” I joked.

“Hell yeah. A kiss.”

A kiss. I didn’t expect that. “Okay.”

“I want you to stay still. Don’t move.”

Hmmm. “But,” I began.

“Nope. Shhh. Be still, Love. Just feel the spark.”

His head lowered, and he lifted his hands, gently holding my jaw in place. I wondered if he would ravage my mouth, claim my lips, and devour me. A part of me wanted him to do it.

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