Page 28 of Tempest

My mind raced with possibilities. What would tomorrow bring? How long could we dance around this growing attraction before one of us snapped?

I pictured Tempest’s face, the intensity in his eyes when he looked at me. The way his jaw clenched when he held back. He was a powder keg of barely contained passion, and I was the match, ready to ignite.

But he’d promised to respect my boundaries, to let me set the pace. The thought both thrilled and terrified me.

I took a deep breath, steadying myself. Whatever challenges lay ahead, we’d face them together. And for the first time in my life, I felt ready for the unknown.

Chapter Nine

Kasen

I couldn’t sleep. The sheets twisted around me like a straitjacket, trapping the heat of another restless night. With a frustrated sigh, I kicked them off and padded to the window. Moonlight spilled across the beach, painting the sand silver. The ocean whispered, beckoning.

What the hell. A walk might clear my head.

The cool sand sifted between my toes as I made my way down to the water’s edge. Waves lapped gently at the shore, a soothing rhythm. I closed my eyes, inhaling the salty air.

My thoughts were chaotic. I appreciated the fact Tempest wanted to take things slow, but at the same time, I yearned for more. I understood why he was waiting. I really did. Didn’t make it any easier.

A flicker of movement caught my eye. Had he noticed I’d left the house and followed me?

“Hello?” I called, peering into the shadows. Silence answered.

My heartbeat quickened. I suddenly felt rather foolish for being out here alone. I had no idea what time it was, but it was late enough I didn’t see another soul around. I’d allowed the peaceful setting to lull me into a sense of safety. Something told me I might have made a horrible mistake coming out here without telling Tempest.

Get a grip, Kasen. You’re imagining things.

Another flash of motion. Closer this time. Then again, maybe it wasn’t my imagination.

Fear clawed up my throat as dark figures emerged from the gloom. Their eyes gleamed with predatory intent.

“Who are you? What do you want?” My voice shook.

They didn’t answer. Just kept coming.

Run. The command exploded in my mind, but my legs wouldn’t move. I was a deer in the headlights, frozen as death approached. Everything my dad had taught me was utterly useless in the face of danger.

Oh God. This can’t be happening.

Tempest’s face flashed through my mind. I’d never see him again. Never tell him… Why had I done such a stupid thing? I knew the dangers in the world and knew how to defend myself. And yet, I stood here, frozen in complete fear. A tear slid down my cheek as I realized how much trouble I was in.

A strangled cry escaped me as rough hands seized my arms.

Panic exploded through me, and I was suddenly unfrozen. I thrashed against the iron grip of the man holding. Kicking with all my might, but not able to connect.

“No! Let go!” I screamed, my voice raw and desperate. His fingers dug into my flesh, bruising.

I kicked out wildly once more, connecting with something solid. A grunt of pain. It was a small victory, but I’d take it.

“Shut her up!” a harsh voice hissed.

A meaty hand clamped over my mouth, muffling my cries. The acrid taste of sweat and dirt flooded my senses. I bit down hard, tasting blood. If only I’d managed to run before it was too late! I might have made it to the house, or gotten close enough Tempest would have heard me scream for help.

“Bitch!” The man snarled but didn’t let go.

My eyes darted frantically, searching for escape, for help. But the beach stretched empty in both directions. Why had I come out alone?

One of them produced a zip tie. The plastic cut into my wrists as they bound them behind my back. Tears of frustration and terror streamed down my face.

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