Page 34 of Hawk
I placed one foot on the back peg and swung my leg over the seat before replying, “I think so.”
He chuckled and took his place in front of me. On instinct, I wrapped my arms around his waist and pulled myself closer to his body. The smell of his cologne was intoxicating as he cranked the bike, causing a loud rumble to fill the air.
For the next two hours, we drove all over the city, and every minute, I hugged him tight, not wanting to let him go.
I guess some things never change.
Chapter 12
Hawk
Stella was a ride ordie type of woman, but I could tell from her loosening grip that she must be exhausted. The emotions from the day were heavy, and I was glad she agreed to come on the ride with me. Whenever life got to be too much, I’d hop on my bike and let the miles bleed the stress from me. I just hoped she felt the same way. Having her on the back of my bike felt right, and I didn’t want this to be a one-time thing.
When I pulled back into her driveway, lights from every corner turned on automatically, illuminating the driveway and front yard. I knew it was a defensive mechanism and I hated that even a small part of her still lived in fear.
Turning off the bike, I climbed off and turned to look at her. She appeared worn out but still had the heart to offer me a smile.
“Thank you for that. I didn’t realize how much I needed the ride until we got out on the road.”
I offered her my hand and watched as she carefully climbed off the back of the bike. Kissing the back of her hand, I watched her blush in the waning daylight as I replied, “Anytime, darlin’.”
We walked to the front door hand in hand and when she fumbled the keys, I took them from her and unlocked the door. Zeus was waiting for us when I pushed the door open, and Stella squatted in front of him and scratched his head.
“Did you miss me?” she asked, and the dog barked, almost like he was answering her question. “Let’s get you outside.”
The dog followed her to the back door, and I was right on their heels. I could see how exhausted she was, and when she leaned against the doorway, keeping an eye on Zeus, I couldn’t help but walk up behind her. Gently, I stepped up to her and placed one hand on her hip. She looked over her shoulder with a smile but didn’t make a move.
“Why don’t you get ready for bed, and I’ll bring Zeus inside when he’s finished.”
“Are you sure?” she asked, and I placed a soft kiss on the top of her head.
It was the second time I’d done it and it felt right. “I’m positive. We can have a smoke before bed, unless you’re ready to crash.”
She turned and looked up at me, her body almost pressed against mine. “That sounds good. I’ll be right back.”
Just as she got to the edge of the kitchen, she turned and asked, “Are . . . are you staying here tonight or are you getting a motel?”
