"Did you touch her? Sarge Reynolds said he saw you touching her in an inappropriate way. Did you?"
"I comforted her," Jordan said.
Ryan turned fully towards him. One eyebrow raised above the other, he stared at him. "Comforted her?"
Jordan nodded.
"You don't have anything to worry about," Jordan said. I want her but she will never be mine, he continued in his head. Jordan saw movement out of the corner of his right eye. He looked over at Lissa, she stirred on the bed and opened her eyes. She saw Ryan but instead of focusing her gaze on him, her eyes still sweeped the room. Jordan attempted to move towards her, but Ryan blocked his path. Jordan observed his friend. He saw the rage in his eyes and stepped back.
"Rhy?" Lissa whispered hoarsely. She reached out her hand to him. Ryan pushed past Jordan and went to her. Jordan decided to go outside. As he moved to the door, Lissa called to him, "Marx, where are you going?" she asked.
He turned his head and smiled at her. She used his surname. "I'll be back." He stepped out of the room. Ryan sat on the edge of the bed and touched Lissa's hair. "How's my baby doing?' he asked. He kissed her brow. He was about to kiss her lips, but she turned her head. He leaned back, turned to Mark and said, "Can you give us some space." Mark's eyes narrowed. He nodded and left the room.
"Lissa," Ryan began, "seeing you today was all I could think of. Seeing you, touching you," he said. He reached his hand down and touched her now deflated tummy. "How are you feeling?" His eyes were filled with concern.
"I lost my babies, Rhy, what do you think?" she said hoarsely. She closed her eyes trying to block him out. Ryan was perplexed. What was wrong with her? He brushed his hand on her forehead. "What's wrong?"
She opened her eyes and took a deep breath. "I-I no longer want to be with you. I don't think we should be together ..."
She continued to speak, but all he heard was the sound of his heart pounding erratically in his chest. His blood was boiling as he stared at her.
"Did Jordan touch you?"
Lissa paused, then said, "This isn't about Jordan. This is about you and me. More so about me."
"What are you talking about?" Ryan looked at her, feeling confused.
Trembling lips blurted out, "I can't have kids. I won't be able to have anymore. You want kids. I can't give them to you."
Ryan felt like the wind was knocked out of him.
What?! He took her hand and squeezed. "What? Are you absolutely sure?" he asked. His throat felt constricted. He took a deep breath and swallowed hard.
She squeezed her eyes shut as the tears flowed. He kissed her brow. "Baby, talk to me," he urged her.
"The doctor said she may not be able to have children. She had a high fever. When they examined her they realised it was because her tubes were inflamed. Somehow they got infected." Jordan replied, walking into the room. He had to make sure she was okay.
He closed the door behind him. On his way back from the restroom, he walked passed Ryan's colleagues, the shortest one making eye contact with him in a menacing way. Jordan was unbothered. The only person that mattered to him was Lissa.
Ryan stood up and faced him. Jordan sized him up. Ryan took a step towards his friend. "Did they say anything else?" Ryan asked. Jordan noticed his gun on his hip.
"A week's bed rest," Jordan said, his voice low. He moved slowly towards him then stopped a foot away.
Ryan nodded curtly. He moved closer to Jordan. "Is there anything else you want to tell me?" he asked.
Jordan shook his head indicating 'no'. He firmly planted his legs, knees slightly bent.
"You're sure?" Ryan asked.
"Very sure," Jordan said nodding. He noticed Lissa trying to sit up. He moved swiftly towards her and helped her to sit and rest her back on the headboard. Ryan watched this interaction, an uncomfortable feeling in the pit of his stomach.
"Take it easy," Jordan said softly. He wanted to brush his fingers on her left cheek but refrained from doing so. He bent forward and helped her to get comfortable. He was about to move away when she grabbed his hand. He looked at her. "Can I have some water please?" she asked.
Jordan nodded. He walked passed Ryan, opened the door and stepped outside.
"I'm setting you free," she said. She had a melancholy look on her face. "You want kids, Rhy. I can't give them to you."
He shook his head. "I want kids but I want you more. Lissa, I love you. I want you."
She laughed bitterly. "Why would you want an empty shell?" she said.
"Did Jordan touch you?"
She shook her head. Ryan felt relieved. He came to her and sat on the chair by her bed. "Baby, I wouldn't mind having children, but I love you. I still want you."
She shook her head. "I'm sorry Ryan. No. I can't put any man in the position to be with me after this. One day, after a few years, you'll wake up, realize that you wasted your years with me, and look at me with resentment. To see that in your eyes would kill me. Or worst yet, to fulfill that desire, you get an outside child. I couldn't bear that."
He reached for her hand. "No!" she said, pulling her hand away. "This is where you thank God I'm not a selfish woman. This is where I let you go so you can be happy with someone else. Rhy, I did tell you I didn't think we should be together. I'm letting you go before you hate me, or before we hate each other."
"Lissa--"
She turned her back to him.
Just then, Jordan stepped into the room. Ryan gestured his head for him to step outside. Jordan nodded. He placed the bottle of water on the night table and stepped outside. "Is what the doctor said accurate?" Ryan asked.
Jordan folded his arms across his chest. He nodded at his friend. "I would say so. They are the medical experts." Ryan swore quietly. "Jordie's she's pushing me away. She says she's breaking up with me. She's talking like she's doing me a favor."
"Maybe she is," Jordan answered.
Ryan looked at him in disbelief. "What are you talking about?"
"If you were in my shoes what would you do? Could you just walk away like that?" Ryan asked, staring at his friend intensely.
Jordan shook his head. "No, I couldn't. I would fight for her and fight with her." Jordan replied. Ryan stared into his friend's eyes and noticed something flicker in their depths. Ryan sighed. "I can't either," he said. "I can't."
He turned to leave. "Tell her I'll see her tomorrow," he said.
"She'll be home tomorrow. She might be home by 4 in the afternoon, You can call tomorrow to check," Jordan responded. Ryan looked at him and nodded. He turned, walked a few steps, then said, "I told you not to fall for her Jordie. Have you?"
Jordan did not reply. Ryan chuckled. "Did you touch her? Sarge Reynolds said he saw you touching her in an inappropriate way. Did you?"
"I comforted her," Jordan said.
Ryan turned fully towards him. One eyebrow raised above the other, he stared at him. "Comforted her?"
Jordan nodded.
"Have you touched her intimately?" Ryan asked.
Jordan shook his head. "No," he said.
"Can I trust you with her?" Ryan asked. He took a step towards him.
Jordan chuckled softly. "I answer to her father, not you." he said. His deep voice was low but had an edge to it.
"Son of a bi--"
"This is a hospital. Shouting will disturb the other patients and the staff," Jordan quipped, his tone sharp.
Ryan bristled in anger. "If it weren't for me you wouldn't have gotten this gig!" he hissed.
Jordan nodded. "Very true, but it's now my job to ensure she is safe and all is well with her. As for falling for her ..." He chuckled. "I don't think there is any man who is able to resist her charms, and I am just a man."
"What are you saying?" Ryan's fists clenched.
"How I feel about her is not important. What is important is that I do my job to the best of my ability and keep her safe," Jordan said.
"So you do feel something for her?" Ryan moved closer.
Jordan's hands curled slightly as he watched his friend come closer.
"What I feel for her is irrelevant. She's a beautiful woman, but unattainable. Plus, she is my client. It wouldn't work." Jordan said stepping back. "She's going through a lot right now. Us fighting over her is not going to help."
He opened the hospital door. "Come by her house to see her tomorrow. Maybe after the drugs have worn off she will have a different perspective." He stepped inside and closed the door behind him. Ryan came to the door and looked through the clear glass section.
He observed that Jordan was sitting before Lissa's bed and that was all he was doing. He walked down the hall to his colleagues. "Let's get out of here," he muttered. Frustration was choking the words he wanted to really say.
Morrant and Sangster looked at him then looked at each other. They nodded and led the way through the hospital to the exit.
"What happened?" Sarge Reynolds asked.
"Lissa isn't feeling well right now. I did get to talk to her, but she's so drugged up what she said wasn't making any sense. I'll see her tomorrow after she's discharged from the hospital," he told them. Inspector Simpson squeezed his shoulder. "She'll be okay," he replied. Ryan nodded.
He left Morrant and Sangster at a bus stop, then dropped off Simpson and Reynolds at the police station so they could retrieve their vehicles. He waved at them then drove off.
Stepping into the apartment and closing the door, Ryan threw his car keys on the coffee table and collapsed on the couch. What happened earlier was not what he expected. He sighed and closed his eyes.
Why was she talking like that earlier? Why was she pushing him away?
He unbuttoned his uniform: pants and shirt, and loosened his work boots. He pulled the belt's buckle. He left it in the couch. He got up and went into his bedroom. It felt empty since she went back to spend time with her friend.
He kicked off his work boots. He unbuttoned his pants, pulled the zipper and stepped out of it. Taking off his shirt, he sighed and threw it in the floor. He left everything in a crumpled pile by his bedside, and threw himself on the bed.
I can't let you go Lissa. I can't! He closed his eyes and fell asleep.
***
There was an unsettling feeling in his chest. Shane woke up, his heart pounding. He was sweating. He placed his hand on n his chest and tried to breathe. Anxiety engulfed his senses. He held his chest and tried not to panic. He wasn't sure why he was feeling this way. Dana wasn't here with him. He ate dinner at her house, but decided to stick to his convictions and head home.
He looked at his watch. It was 3:25 a.m. What was going on with him? He tried breathing in and out slowly to calm himself. Just then, the phone rang. He reached for it.
An unfamiliar voice was on the line. "Are you Shane?" the voice asked.
Shane nodded subconsciously. "Yes, I am he," he replied.
"My name is Jordan Marx. Corporal Stewart's friend. I'm Lissa's bodyguard. She's ... she's been asking for you. She ... uh. She tried to hurt herself."
"What do you mean hurt herself?" Shane asked, his heart pounding.
"She ... she attempted suicide. I was able to get the doctors to pump her stomach. She's back in her room, but she's been screaming your name. Can you come to see her?"
"How did you get my number?" Shane asked, standing up. He was heading to the bathroom.
"I got it from her phone. She unlocked the phone for me and I searched for your number. She's been on your name since she came back to her room," Jordan revealed.
Shane sighed. "I'll be there," he answered.
"Okay," said Jordan and hung up.
Shane called Dana. She was groggy on the phone, but she understood everything he said. She wanted to go with him, but he dissuaded her.
"I will call you as soon as I can, okay?" he said.
"What's happened to her?" Dana asked.
"She's been asking for me," Shane said, getting dressed in jeans and powder blue t-shirt. He put the phone on 'handsfree' and placed it on the night stand.
"I see ... Go to her then. I guess you guys have unfinished business."
Shane sighed. "My business with her is done, but what's happened is very traumatic for her--"
"And for you."
Shane cleared his throat, then said, "Yeah, it has affected me. But she was the one carrying the twins. I will never understand the kind of loss she might be feeling right now."
"Okay," Dana replied quietly.
"Remember, I told you I want no one else, and that it's all about you?"
"Yes."
"Believe that. Baby, my heart beats only for you. All I want is you. You can trust me."
"Okay," she replied. She blew him a kiss. "I love you."
"And I love you my sweet little cookie. Every delectable inch of you," Shane allowed his tone to deepen, making his voice raspy on the line.
Dana giggled softly.
"You know I wanted to stay with you last night. But I'm trying my best to behave," he said.
"I saw your bulge and was tempted to touch you," Dana confessed.
Shane chuckled softly. "I can't wait to plunge this thing inside you. You're driving me crazy."
"What's the first position you would put me in when you get the chance?" she asked in a sultry, teasing voice.
Shane gave a little laugh. "Hmm," he said, his voice deep and gruff. "I love your bubble butt. Maybe I would give you a backaz first, very slowly, and make sure I hit your G-spot. I wanna feel your butt smacking on my thighs. I would go really slow, then increase my strokes inside you. Then I'd go faster and faster; give it to you hard, until you're screaming my name, and you cum and spray me with that sweet juice. I want you to wet me up."
Dana groaned. "You're making me hot."
Shane chuckled. "I'm always hot for you."
She released a soft breath. "I wish you could push that hard dick inside me. I'm dying to feel you. It feels like I'm losing my mind.
Shane bit his bottom lip. He grunted. "I want to tease it at the edge of your 'needle eye', just so you can feel how much I want you, then I'll taste your tight, little cookie. I would lick up your 'sweetness' and then push this cock up inside you. I wanna hear you cry out for me. Trust me baby, I really want you. You don't know how much. But we have to wait, okay? Just a little bit longer. Save that sweetness for me, and I promise to take good care of you."
She groaned. "Okay baby," she said. She was very moist down below.. She put her hand between upper thighs and squeezed her legs together. She moaned softly. She wished he was in her bed.
"Baby, I'm wet," she told him. Her voice was soft and raspy.
He sat down on the bed and pulled on dark grey loafers. He took up the phone and clicked off 'handsfree'. Putting the device to his ear, he blew her a sloppy kiss. He felt his member harden for her.
"Mmhn?"
"Yes," she said, her voice airy.
"Is it jumping for me?" he asked in a husky tone.
"Yes," she replied half moaning. "Oh god Shane, you're making me touch myself."
He bit his bottom lip. "Are you wearing panties?"
"Yes ..." Her breath caught as she responded to him. "Slip it aside and take your time playing with your sweetness for me." he told her, his voice gruff.
"Ahhh! I want you!" she moaned, as she carefully touched her throbbing nub.
He moved further up on the bed, and while leaning on the headboard he closed his eyes. He wouldn't pleasure himself yet, but he wanted to hear her.
"Touching it for me?" he asked softly.
"Yes," she moaned. He could hear her breathing becoming more shallow.
"Have you ever played with yourself before baby?" he asked tenderly.
"No ... no never, but I can't help it. I want you so bad," she replied, her voice soft and raspy. He heard the quality of her voice and groaned.
"That's okay sweet baby," he reassured her. "Just relax and let me guide you." He was getting really hard. He tried his best to control his breathing.
His voice was low and tender to her ears. Dana moaned softly.
"Very soon I promise to give you everything. All your heart's desires," he told her. She was whimpering and moaning softly. He loved how she sounded.
"Dana, would you put your finger inside for me?"
"No, I ... aahh. I want to save that for you ..." Her voice was airy--breathy.
"Okay Sweetness, I'll make sure to fill you up when the time comes," he said, with a sloppy kiss. "I want to hear you moan, baby. Play with your sweet, little clit for me and let me hear you. Stroke it slowly and think about my tongue teasing it for you. You know I love licking it." He exhaled slowly, his breathing ragged. His heart rate spiked as he listened to her. "I really want to taste you again. I'm looking forward to doing it very soon, and I'm gonna take my time on it for you."
"Ohh! Hmm ..." She gently caressed her moist folds then slowly stroked her nub as she listened to him.
His deep, sexy voice heightened the sensations she was feeling. She wished it was him that was touching her, but hearing his voice was a good alternative for now. As she rubbed herself, she thought of his lips down there, on her. She thought about the last time he went down on her: the way his lips and tongue suckled and licked her, making her go crazy as the pleasurable sensations built up inside her.
As she felt her loins ache with desire, she closed her eyes and moved her fingers more fervently, driven by the need to fulfill her satisfaction. She bit her bottom lip and listened to his voice.
"Would you want that baby? Do you want me to taste you?" he asked, groaning in a deep, guttural tone. She was really making him lose himself. His hand strayed lower, but he stopped it at his belt. He gripped his belt tightly and sighed. Not right now!
"Yes, hmmm." she replied. She moved her fingers in a circular motion, concentrating on the tension in her loins, her body anticipating the intense ripples of pleasure it would experience any second now.
"How does it feel sweet baby? Does it feel good?" he asked, his voice low and raspy.
"Hmm, yes, but I ... I wish it was you touching me," she told him. Her heart rate went up as her body responded to the light strokes her fingers placed on her sensitive spot.
"Move faster with your fingers baby," he said seductively. "Very soon honey, I promise to give you all of me. Every thick, hard inch of me inside you."
"Hmm ... Yes!"
He listened to her soft moans and the cute, whimpering cries she made, and told her that she sounded sexy. "Sweet baby, you sound so sexy. Rub that sweetness for me. When we're married I'm gonna take you over and over and over again." His breathing was becoming more shallow now. He bit his bottom lip. He was tempted to touch himself, but it would have to wait until he got back from seeing Lissa.
"Oh Dana, baby. I wish I could watch you do it. After you cum, I would give this 'wood' to you the right way. Any position you want it, deep in that sweet wetness."
Dana groaned and called his name. "Hmm, Shane! Ohh!" His words and voice were making her loins clench.
"Tell me you want me," he breathed. She rubbed herself faster putting more pressure on the sensitive tip.
"Oh Shane, I want you. I need you ... ssst ... ahh! Ohh! Ohhh! Ahhh! Baby!" Hot bursts of pleasure shot through her and made her body jerk and shiver. She opened her mouth, breathing rapidly.
"Just like that Sweetness. Cum for me. I wanna hear you," he growled. He opened his eyes and focused his gaze on the white and grey tiles of the bedroom floor.
Dana moaned loudly, then silence. The sensations were so intense, her throat locked up and she could barely breathe. A muffled cry then soft whimpers escaped her lips as she tried to catch her breath.
Sharp puffs of air, then soft groans with laboured breaths graced his ears. Shane grunted, biting his bottom lip when he heard the ecstatic sounds. Closing his eyes, he swallowed the saliva that had pooled in his mouth.
Feeling aware of his own breathing, he waited until her panting slowed down, then asked, "Did you cum Sweetness?"
"Yes," she answered, her tone sultry. He blew sloppy kisses to her. "You sound so good," he encouraged her. "I can imagine how really sexy you look right now. Did you squirt for me? Cum really hard?" His voice was deep and gruff.
"Yes to both," she said with a little sigh. She moved her right hand from her groin, suddenly feeling shy. He blew her a kiss. Dana's cheeks felt tingly. She turned her face into her pillow and smiled.
"I love you sweet baby," he declared, his voice tender. "I want you and only you."
She lifted her head. "I love you too. You're driving me crazy," she told him. Closing her eyes, she savored his words of love. She turned on her side, balled her hand into a fist and tucked it under her pillow. Feeling for the phone with her left hand, she kept her eyes closed, When she found it by her knee, she opened her eyes, and placed it closer to her face.
"Ditto sweet baby. Ditto," Shane said softly. He could feel his member throbbing. He crossed his legs. Not yet, he told himself.
Dana inhaled and exhaled slowly. She had never felt an orgasm so strongly before. She wondered how it would feel when they made love for real.
Shane listened to her and smiled. He opened his eyes and looked at his watch. It was 4:15 a.m. "Get some more sleep, okay baby. Rest up. You still have work. You'll have to drive. I don't know if I'll be back in time to pick you up. Okay?"
"Okay," she replied.
"Can't wait to see you later," he told her.
"Me too," Dana replied with a sigh. "Let me know how she is," she said. She didn't hate Lissa.
"I will," he answered. "As soon as I see her, I will call and let you know what's going on. Okay?"
"Okay," Dana replied. She was twirling a lock of hair.
"Alright baby. Talk soon."
"Okay," she said. "I love you."
"I love you Sweetness."
Shane blew her a kiss and hung up. Looking at the phone, he shook his head. She was bringing out a side of himself he thought he had buried. The good thing was, he desired to only show that side to her, no one else. He tucked his phone in his jeans' pocket and smiled.
He couldn't wait to see her later. He would take them out to eat to avoid being alone with her. He was sure he would make love to her later if he didn't do that. He sprayed some cologne on his clothes and rushed out the door.
***
Jordan lay on the bed beside Lissa. After sobbing uncontrollably she was finally asleep, her head on his shoulder. He had climbed on the bed to comfort her while she cried. The doctor and two nurses came in and sedated her.
One of the nurses that came in bored holes in Jordan with her eyes but said nothing. The doctor did not make a comment about him being on the bed either, so he stayed. When they left he gathered Lissa in his arms and listened to her crying. He brushed his hand on her face and tenderly caressed her hair until she fell asleep.
And that was the position Shane found them in when he walked in. He was surprised but made no immediate comment about what he saw. Jordan sat up slowly, and stood to his feet as Shane came towards her bed.
"Jordan Marx?" Shane asked, looking him up and down.
Jordan nodded. "She was asking for you," he answered.
"Do you know why?" Shane asked. He walked to where Jordan stood before Lissa's bed. The 'steamy' phone sex a couple minutes before was still on his mind. He took a deep breath and tried to push the thought aside for a little while.
Jordan moved to the other side of the bed and gently touched Lissa on her arm. He leaned forward and brushed his fingers on her cheek. Shane felt a twinge of something but it was more on behalf of Ryan, not himself.
"You've gotten close to her, haven't you?" Shane quipped. His eyes watched Jordan's facial expression closely. Jordan chuckled softly. "I'm just her bodyguard. I'm just trying to be here for her, since you're no longer available, and she broke up with Ryan earlier." That revelation made Shane's eyebrows shoot upwards. He ignored Jordan's jibe at him about being there for Lissa. That wasn't his business. "Ryan and Lissa broke up?"
Jordan nodded. "Yeah. She broke up with him earlier today."
"Why?" Shane asked. His eyes boring into him.
"It's not because of me," Jordan answered, noticing Shane penetrating stare. He sighed, then said, "She's grieving. She uh ... she just found out she may not be able to have any more kids."
That struck Shane to his core. He stared at Lissa. He felt a dull ache in his chest. "What happened?" He turned his gaze back to Jordan.
"Dude? You okay? You look like you need to sit down. There's the chair if you want to sit," Jordan said gesturing to the chair.
Shane shook his head. "I don't need it. Just tell me what happened," he said.
"Early yesterday morning she woke up with a high fever," Jordan replied. "I was able to get the doctors and two nurses to check on her. They managed to reduce the fever. After some tests they discovered the fever was caused by inflamed fallopian tubes.
"Later in the night she said she was going to take some headache pills, but they were sleeping pills. I just stepped out to get her some water and she swallowed maybe a quarter of the bottle, not sure."
Maybe I do need to sit down, Shane thought. He looked behind him for the chair and sat on it. He took a deep breath and exhaled slowly. He reached out his hand and touched Lissa's shoulder, squeezing gently. "I'm so sorry Lissa. I'm so sorry," he said.
Shane moved his hand down to touch her left hand. He closed his eyes, breathing in deeply and slowly. Jordan watched him carefully. He wanted no more surprises.
Shane remembered all the fun times he and Lissa shared as friends, and the brighter days of their budding relationship that was no longer possible. But most of all, he thought about their friendship. He whispered a prayer for her, asking God to heal her heart, mind and body. He also asked God to break the spiritual bond between them, and help them to be able to find healthy, loving relationships.
While he prayed for them, more so for her, he felt his heart getting lighter and a feeling of peace wash over him. Lissa opened her eyes and looked at him. "I knew it was you," she said smiling. She squeezed his hand. She turned her head to Jordan and said, "Can you give us a minute?"
Jordan nodded and left the room.
Lissa turned on lay on her side so she could face Shane and get a better look at him. "How have you been?" she asked. Shane smiled at her. He brushed his fingers over her hair. "Thankful you're still among the living," he said reflectively. "It would hurt me if you had died, literally."
He cleared his throat and squeezed her hand. "Lissa, the bond we have is real. When you slept with Ryan I felt it." He saw her look of consternation and hurried to explain. "What I mean is: this feeling of jealousy rose up in me. I had a panic attack and fainted. In my heart I felt you had cheated, and you later admitted you did. This morning, while I was sleeping, I felt a pain in my chest. I woke up having this overwhelming feeling of anxiety. It was like I couldn't breathe. Lissa, you have to be careful for both our sakes."
She stared at him, her eyes wide. She was filled with fear. "I-I don't feel you like that. I'm sorry. I didn't know," she answered. She was feeling guilty.
He touched her face. "I know, but I feel you. Even when I don't want to," he said with a sigh.
Lissa looked into his eyes and saw the despair. "I'm sorry," she said. "Do you love Dana?"
Shane nodded. "I do. I want to marry her."
Lissa felt a pang of jealousy, but smiled. She was the one who broke off their relationship. She did care for him. "I want you to be happy," she said softly.
"Your bodyguard said you were calling for me?"
Lissa blushed. "Must be in a state of delirium," she answered. "I kind of vaguely remember asking for you. But my memory is fuzzy."
"Do you remember why you wanted to see me?" Shane asked. He brushed his left hand on her right cheek, while the other hand still squeezed her left hand.
Lissa sighed. "I guess I wanted you to forgive me for breaking up with you, and for losing the babies," she said.
He smiled at her. "I've already forgiven you for the relationship break-up. You made your choice and I respect you for your decision. I did neglect you for a little while. I should have kept in touch more often."
"I was lonely without you and scared," she told him.
"I know," he replied with a sigh. "I know. Can you forgive me for leaving you those months?'
She nodded. "I have. I just want us to be friends."
He bent forward and kissed her brow. "You will always be that to me, a good friend." He leaned back and chuckled softly. She smiled and asked, "What's so funny?"
Shane smiled. "Just remembered the first time I met you. I was trying so hard to impress you that I spilled coffee on myself."
Lissa's smile broadened. "Yeah, you offered to make me coffee, and I told you no, but you insisted and while you were there chatting me up, you didn't pay attention to what you were doing you burned yourself." She shook her head while she laughed.
As she was laughing, Shane saw the inner glow in her eyes that made him fall in love with her. He touched her face. She stopped laughing and looked at him. "Lissa, I have moved on with Dana, but I want you to know I care about you. You're a beautiful soul. Save yourself for someone who truly deserves you. Your ... uh, bodyguard told me about you breaking up with Ryan."
Lissa sighed. "I'm setting him free. I can't have kids, Shane. My tubes are inflamed. I'm on antibiotics now."
"Can't the antibiotics help?" he asked.
"There's no guarantee. There may be scarring because of the infection. That may make it difficult for me to conceive," she replied.
"I'm sorry."
She squeezed his hand. "It's not your fault," she told him. He closed his eyes and smiled. He nodded. "Thank you," he said.
"Ryan is in love with you," Shane said. "Give him a chance."
Lissa shook her head. "When he first expressed his interest in me I told him I didn't think I deserved him. Now more than ever that is true. He loves kids. He wants kids, just like you do. I won't be able to--"
"You may not be able to. All things are possible with God," Shane told her.
Her face lit up. "That's what Jordan said to me when I first found out, but I don't know," she answered.
Shave noticed the change in her demeanor. "Do you like ...?" He gestured his head towards the door. Lissa blushed. "He's different," she replied, wringing her fingers.
"Just be careful, okay?" Shane let go of her hand he was holding all this time. He reached over and hugged her. He felt a lifting of the heaviness and foreboding in his chest.
He touched her face. "Take care of yourself," he said. His lips curved into a tiny smile. Lissa nodded. "I will," she said smiling back at him. She knew this would probably be the last intimate moment with him. "I release you," she said. "I'm happy for you and Dana."
Shane sighed. "Thank you. I release you too. I hope you will find someone who will love you, and I pray you will open your heart to love again." He squeezed her close to him. Lissa felt much better. She hugged him back.
He moved back and stood up. "Take care," he said, playfully pulling her hair. She laughed and swatted his hand away. "You too," she said. He nodded. He walked to the door and looked back briefly. Smiling at her, he opened the door and stepped outside quietly, closing the door behind him.
He saw Jordan sitting on a chair in the foyer. He stood before him. "She trusts you," Shane said staring pointedly at him. "Be worthy of her trust."
Jordan stood up. He nodded. "I will try my best," he said. Shane inclined his head towards him and gave a brief smile. He walked away.
Jordan watched him leave. He sensed something important had happened between Shane and Lissa, something he hoped would be the beginning of her healing. He walked down the hall towards her room. He knocked on the door and entered.
She was sitting up. Her face lit up as she saw him. He was bowled over by the way her smile changed her whole countenance. This was not the Lissa he left earlier. He came to her side and sat down on the chair.
"Got what you needed?" he asked, smiling at her. She nodded. "Yes, I did. God is good," she answered, grinning.
Jordan reached for her hand and squeezed it. "Indeed He is," he replied. "Indeed He is."
***
His phone rang as he stepped through the door of his tiny apartment. Shane retrieved it from his pants' left front pocket. Looking at the lit screen he saw that Lissa's dad was calling him. He answered, "Hello. I was just coming from seeing Lissa."
Marcus replied, "I know. I got a text from Jordan. Thank you for seeing her. She should be home later today."
Shane nodded. "Okay," he said.
"There is something you should know," Marcus said. The tone of his voice had gotten more sober. "Her mom is in the hospital. She ... uh ... she has a brain aneurysm." He heard Shane release a sharp breath, and sighed. "Yeah, I thought you should know. There's nothing to connect us anymore, but I suppose because of everything that's happened I felt you should know."
Shane cleared his throat. "Thank you for telling me. I'll visit her if you don't mind."
"She'll be out by next Monday. It may be best to visit her at home," Marcus said.
Shane nodded, though the older man couldn't see him. "Yeah. Okay, I will do that," he replied. "I am so sorry about everything." He figured the stress she was going through with Lissa's situation may have caused her health to deteriorate. He also felt partially responsible, but he wouldn't allow guilt to eat him up.
"Also ..." Shane perked up his ear to listen to his friend. "I will be away for two weeks," Marcus said. "I'm going on a business trip to Dubai. I've rescheduled the audit with our Mr Sterling aka Mr Z," He chuckled softly.
A faint smile curved Shane's lips. "You think it's really him?" he asked.
"Mhm, I do," Marcus answered. "Jordan will be staying at the house everyday while I'm over there. I've already informed him of what he should do. Also Sandra is aware that he will be staying with them. I don't want to impose, but if you can stop by every now and then while I'm gone, I will be appreciative of it. You don't have to stop by every day, but maybe one day each week."
"Yeah, I will. Not a problem. Is it okay if Constable Campbell tags along as well?"
"Not a problem. Jealous girlfriend?" Marcus asked, feeling amused.
"She doesn't act like that around me, but just to make sure there's no misunderstanding," Shane said smiling.
Marcus chuckled. "Understood. Yeh man, that's fine. Once your friend will be there as a positive influence, I have no issues with that."
"She will," Shane answered. I'll make sure of it, he thought.
"Okay, so take care, and thank you," Marcus said.
Shane chuckled. "I should be thanking you." He released a soft breath. "Thank you for opening your home to me and still being kind to me after all that's happened."
There was a pause, then Marcus said, "None of us are perfect Shane. We have to give each other grace, otherwise we'll all be miserable. Take care of yourself." He cleared his throat. "I'll be leaving this Friday."
"Is it okay if I come by then?" Shane asked.
Marcus smiled. "Sure," he answered. "I don't mind."
"Safe travel," Shane said.
"Thank you." Marcus hung up the phone.
Shane dialed Dana's number and told her what had happened to Lissa. She sounded genuinely concerned. He was relieved about that. He blew her tender kisses across the line and told her he would see her later. She kissed him through the phone and told him she longed to see him.
The tone of her voice was igniting a fire inside him. He sent her more sloppy kisses and ended the call. He walked into his bedroom and looked around. It felt empty without her. He made a promise to himself to look at a few engagement rings next week. He couldn't wait any longer.
Shane stripped down to his underpants and headed for the shower. He closed the bathroom door, and took off his boxer briefs. He stepped into the shower and shut his eyes.
He thought of this morning and the sensual, alluring sounds his woman was making. He also thought of the relief he felt when he and Lissa reconciled earlier. Opening his eyes, he turned on the showerhead and stood under it, allowing the water to wet his head and run down his shoulders and back. He took up his favorite bar of soap from the rack and began lathering his body.
Rubbing the soap across his chest and arms, he sighed. "Dana," he murmured. His hand drifted down to his member and circled it. Slowly, he moved his hand up and down the shaft and felt it grow taut, and harden as he massaged it. He placed the soap on its rack and called her name again, "Dana. Hmm ... sweet baby. I love you so much ..." He tightened his grip on his erection, moving his hand in a rhythmic way along the shaft; applying a bit more pressure near the tip.
He bit his bottom lip, reminiscing about her tight sweetness. "Hmm ... my sweet baby," he breathed. As he continued, he thought of what their first time would be like. He would take his time and make her feel loved and wanted. He pressed his back on the bathroom tiles, while the water cascaded over him. Leaning his head back, he licked his lips, and allowed his hunger for her to take over.
***
"One step at a time. I got you. Okay, left foot first, then right," Jordan said as he helped Lissa up the stairs to her bedroom. With his hands on her hips, her weight slightly braced on him, she felt much lighter than when he helped her a few days ago. The realization of that fact made him feel sad. He pursed his lips, suppressing the sigh that almost escaped.
At her door, he lifted her in his arms. She giggled. "Open the door for me," he said smiling at her. She reached towards the door, turned the handle and pushed. He carried her inside her room and laid her gently on the bed. He sat beside her.
Marcus was downstairs, taking up a small bag he brought with a few pieces of clothing she didn't get to use. When he brought up the bag, Jordan reached for it and he let him have it. "Put it in my closet. I can sort through that later," Lissa said. Jordan placed the bag on the top shelf, and came to sit down beside her.
She leaned into his shoulder and he smiled. Marcus observed that she seemed happier and was glad. If Jordan was the reason for this change he didn't mind. He smiled at them both. "Jordan, a minute please." he said smiling at him. He moved towards the door. Jordan stood up and followed him. They walked downstairs and entered the kitchen.
Jordan followed closely behind him. "Have a seat," Marcus said. Jordan sat and waited.
"Thank you for taking on this task," Marcus said sitting adjacent to him. Jordan nodded.
"My daughter seems to be fond of you," Marcus asserted, watching Jordan closely.
Jordan cleared his throat. "In the beginning it was difficult to get her to trust me, but since ... since what's happened recently, she sees I am here to keep her safe."
"Is that all you intend on doing?" Marcus asked.
Jordan nodded. "Lissa is my client, nothing more."
Marcus watched him for a few seconds, then asked, "Do you find my daughter attractive, Jordan?"
Jordan blinked. That question was unexpected, but he wasn't going to lie. "She's a beautiful woman," he replied.
"Yes, that is true, but how do you feel about her?"
Jordan sighed. "Yes, I find her very attractive, but that will not hinder my duty to protect her." He looked at his hands then lifted his gaze to meet Marcus's eyes. "She's very beautiful, but vulnerable. She broke up with Ryan because she knows he wants children and she may not be able to give him any. I just want to make sure she's okay."
"Do you have feelings for her?" Marcus's eyes bored into him. He didn't know Lissa broke it off with Corporal Stewart.
That question gave Jordan pause. He was probably risking his job if he admitted it, but he would anyway. He took a deep breath and released it. "Yes. Yeah, I have feelings for her. I mean, I know I don't know her well, but I am a good judge of character. She has gone through a lot, but she's still a good person." She just needs someone who can anchor her, he finished in his head.
"My expectations, as you already know, will be that you protect her at all costs. That is what I have hired you to do. Being close quarters with someone can affect one's perception of a situation. Whatever happens between you two, I need you to make sure you do your job. The job I hired you for."
Jordan nodded. "I promise, I will," he said.
"Lissa is a grown woman. She decides what she wants, but make sure you keep the task I have given you in immediate focus. Understood?"
Jordan nodded. "Crystal clear," he replied.
Marcus nodded. "Good. Whatever happens between you two, make sure you do what I require."
Jordan smiled at that last statement from Lissa's dad. He nodded. "I will," he answered. "I will."
***
He knocked on her door and she opened it. Jordan stood in the doorway, his eyes moving slowly over her body. Lissa blushed. "Did you need anything Mr Marx?" she asked cheekily.
"Dinner will be served in ten minutes. So freshen up and come downstairs," he told her, smiling. His eyes teased her. Lissa felt heat rising from her loins and spreading across her body.
She nodded, afraid to speak and give her body's response away. He smiled at her, his eyes smoldering with desire. "See you in ten," he said. He turned and headed downstairs. Lissa let out a ragged breath.
Wooh! Hunky! she thought. She shook her head and went to the bathroom to pee, then took a quick shower.
After dinner, Lissa curled up on the couch to watch a movie, while Jordan volunteered to do the dishes and clean up the kitchen. Marcus had an urgent meeting with a client.
When Jordan was finished cleaning up, he entered the room and stood behind her. Lissa could feel his presence. Her skin felt prickly and her heart rate went up.
"What are you watching?" he asked. He moved closer towards her.
"Action," she told him, but she didn't look at him. He stood behind her and placed his hands on her shoulders. Lissa's body shivered.
Jordan squeezed her shoulders. "Want a massage? Your body feels tense."
She was feeling nervous. "I-I'm okay," she said.
Jordan heard the tremor in her voice and came around to sit beside her. He reached for her hand and squeezed it. "Lissa," he said looking at her, "All that I've done so far is to make you feel safe with me. I won't deny I like you. I think you are very beautiful, but I promise not to violate your trust. You can trust me."
Lissa looked at him. She leaned towards him, and he circled his arms around her. He bent forward and kissed her head. She closed her eyes and sighed. "Thank you," she said. "You're welcome," he replied. He began rubbing his hand up her arm. He rested his face on her head and watched the movie with her.
Around 11 p.m. he lifted her in his arms and carried upstairs. As he laid her on the bed he looked at her. She opened sleepy eyes and looked up at him. He smiled at her. "You're very beautiful," he told her. He bent forward and brushed the fingers of his right hand on her cheeks. He cupped her face, bent forward and kissed her brow. "Get some sleep, okay?" he said.
He straightened up to leave, but she touched his hand and looked up at him. Jordan stared at her. Her beautiful eyes held something mysterious. "Please stay with me. I ... we, I don't want us to do anything. I mean ..." she stammered and blushed.
He chuckled softly. Jordan sat on the bed and stared into her eyes. "Do you want us to do something?" he asked. He took a deep breath and released it. "I really like you, Lissa, I find you very attractive," he revealed. Lissa blushed. "Maybe this isn't a good idea," she said.
Jordan laughed softly. "Remember, I told you you can trust me? I said it downstairs."
She nodded.
"Exactly. I won't touch you in any way you don't want me to. Promise." He scooted closer and touched her face. "Want me to sleep here tonight?" he asked.
She nodded and swallowed saliva. He nodded. "Okay, let me freshen up and I'll be back," he answered. He stood and left the room quietly. She looked at the door, her heart pounding.
Maybe I should tell him I changed my mind. Lissa, what are you doing? This isn't a good idea. She loved the way she felt in his arms, but maybe she shouldn't. After all, he was Ryan's friend. She had already hurt two men she cared about. She regretted that deeply.
While she thought of what to do. The door clicked open and Jordan stepped into the room. He was wearing a white t-shirt and black sweat pants. He walked quietly towards the bed and she felt her heart skip a beat. "Do you want me beside you on the bed or you want me to stay on the chair?" he asked. His smokey green eyes were captivating.
She cleared her throat. "You haven't slept since the day before yesterday, you can sleep here." She patted the space beside her.
"How do you know I haven't slept?" he asked amused. Is she observing details about me? He felt flattered.
She looked at him deadpan and shook her head. "You haven't slept. Every time I wake up your eyes are open."
He chuckled and shook his head. "Okay, I haven't slept. What now?" he asked amused. He reached his hand out and touched her thigh. She didn't move away. "I'm gonna change into something more comfortable, and we can get some well needed sleep," she replied, smiling. "Okay, no prob," he said. She moved away from him. He placed his hand on his lap, and watched her enter the bathroom, after taking out clothes from her chest of drawers.
After five (5) minutes, she returned wearing a t-shirt and black tights. She was feeling self conscious of her belly. It was a little flabby but she couldn't complain about that. She sighed and scooted into the bed beside him. She lifted the edge of the sheets and he shifted his body so she could cover both of them.
He noticed the change in her countenance and pulled her into his arms. She didn't resist. He patted her head on his chest. She got cosy and closed her eyes. "You okay?" he asked.
She sighed. "I was thinking about my babies," she said, her voice slightly hoarse. Jordan kissed her head. "I'm sorry," he said. Lissa turned her face towards his chest and breathed in his masculine scent. He smelt like pine wood and sun-kissed citrus fruit. She took a deep whiff of him and relaxed. "You smell really good," she told him.
"Mhm ... thank you. You smell really good too, like cherry blossoms," he answered. His deep voice was soft and hypnotic to her ears. She sighed. He moved his left hand down to caress her side. He squeezed the flesh and heard her release a soft, rushed breath. "Like that?" he asked.
"Mhm, yes," she said, her breathing shallow.
"Come up some more. Let me see your eyes," he said softly. He pulled her up, his arms around her waist. She pushed herself up with her legs while he pulled her. "You have the meds the doctor prescribed?" he asked, his eyes taking her in. She nodded. "Daddy filled them for me," she answered.
As he looked into her eyes, he smiled at her. "You have beautiful eyes," he told her. She scoffed at him, then grinned. "Me? No sir! You're the one here with the smoldering green eyes." He laughed. Lissa felt her heart flutter. His laugh was very pleasing to her ears. It was a rich, sexy sound.
"Smoldering, eh?" he asked, still laughing a little.
"Yes," she said, "they are quite beautiful to look at." Jordan stopped laughing and stared at her. "They are?" he asked. He brushed his fingers on her left cheek.
Lissa swallowed hard. "Yeah ... yes they are, they are very unique." He bent his head and touched her brow with his. "Lissa, I want to kiss you," he said, his voice a little breathy. He lifted his head instead and kissed her brow.
"Come here," he said, his voice a soft but sensuous whisper. He lay on his back and pulled her partially onto his chest. "Relax," he instructed. He moved his hands down to explore the curves of her hips. Lissa gasped as his hands explored her round hips, then gently squeezed her.
Eager hands moved upwards to caress her bottom. Lissa groaned softly. He squeezed her and heard her moan. Kissing her brow, he made a soft guttural sound. "Mhh ... you feel really good. You have a sexy body." Jordan circled his arms around her waist and squeezed more passionately. Lissa groaned.
"Like that?" he asked. His voice was gruff.
Lissa nodded, her breathing ragged. "Lay your head on my shoulder," he told her. She lifted herself to lay fully on his chest and did as he requested. "Close your eyes," he said.
Rubbing her back slowly, he started to hum to her. Lissa sighed. There was something about the way he touched her that soothed, but also quickened her desires at the same time. She didn't understand it, but she was drawn to him.
As he continued to rub her back and hum to her, she felt sleepy and closed her eyes. How does he do that? she wondered. She forced her eyes open. "There's something about you that I don't understand," she said quietly.
He chuckled softly. "What's that?" he asked, his baritone was low and tender.
"The way you touch me. I can't explain it. Your touch, there's something about it." She braced her hands on his chest to raise herself up, so she could look into his eyes. His green eyes seemed even more mysterious as he looked up at her. He reached up a hand and gently brushed it on her face. Lissa closed her eyes. Her mouth opened slightly, as she felt a tingling sensation run through her, settling in her lower back and loins.
She opened curious eyes and narrowed her gaze at him. "Are you sure you're human?" she asked, teasing him.
Jordan looked at her, a cheeky smile curled up his lips. "What do you think I am?" he asked. He watched her intently. He wanted to kiss her, but held himself back.
"I don't know, an angel maybe, or some other being from another planet," she mused. She winked at him as she smiled.
Jordan chuckled and squeezed her gently. She feels so soft and nice. He was mesmerized. So beautiful. "I'm just a man, trust me." He wrapped his legs around her, and flipped her over on her back with him on top of her. While slipping his legs between her thighs, he kissed her neck and forehead.
Jordan undulated his hips slowly as he stared into her eyes. Shifting his right leg up, he pressed his lower body into her. "Do you feel it?" he asked, his voice deep and breathing shallow.
Lissa was shocked by his swift maneuver, but more so aroused by it. She also felt his hard member pressing against her lower abdomen, and nodded, closing her eyes. "Yes, I feel it." Oh god, I want to feel him, she thought. She was biting her bottom lip. Her eyes were half closed. She was experiencing pelvic cramps, but ignored them. The ache to have him inside her was stronger.
Jordan began moving his hips in a seductive way, thrusting slowly on her. Lissa moaned softly. Instinctively, she wrapped her legs around him. He felt so good. His thrusts were slow, but the grinding of his hips was turning her on.
"I'm just a man, Lissa. I think about doing this to you almost all the time." Abruptly, he stopped and sat up on the bed. "I don't think I should sleep here tonight," he declared. "If I do, I'll lose control."
Lissa's throat was dry, her chest rising and falling quickly, and her loins throbbing. He stood up and looked down at her. She could see the passion burning in his eyes. By reflex Lissa's eyes drifted down to his crotch. She bit the corner of her bottom lip as she saw his size, clearly obvious against the soft fabric of his sweat pants.
She closed her eyes briefly, then opened them to explore his body. She observed his broad chest and shoulders, his strong arms; those powerful legs. She felt breathless as she remembered how they felt wrapped around her. If only ... She groaned softly. The doctor said no sexual activity for a while, but oh gosh!
Jordan noted the way she looked at him. He sighed. He wanted to be with her so bad. The doctor instructed that she shouldn't engage in any kind of sexual contact. He walked to the door. Plus, he needed to keep his mind clear. Maybe after the threat was over, if she wanted to, they could explore a relationship, but for now she was off limits.
"Good night Lissa, get some sleep," he told her. He slipped through the door quietly and closed it.
Lissa groaned and pushed her head in her pillow. "Ugh!" she cried. Slapping her pillow out of frustration, she adjusted her head to get comfortable, and closed her eyes. It took a while for her to fall asleep, but she did.
She dreamed ...
A cold, hard blade was pressed against her lower back. She tried not to move, not even to flinch as a large black man held her arms tightly behind her back. Another man was speaking, "Have a little fun, then kill her and get rid of the body." She lifted her eyes and saw a tall man walk away, his back was already turned to her.
She looked around. It seemed like they were on a boat of some sort. The large man that held her, squeezed her wrists together, and pushed her towards a small cot in the room. She fell on the semi-hard surface and was winded--the air knocked out of her on impact. She struggled to stand, but her hands were hindrances in the position she was in..
She heard laughing, loud, booming like a cavernous echo. She managed to twist her body around so she was on her back. Lissa lifted her legs and swung them down to give her momentum to sit up.
She stood and ran towards the door. She pressed herself on it, turning her body to use her tied hands to pull the handle of the door. She pushed but the door was locked. Another booming laugh shattered her frazzled nerves. She turned to see the large man holding the key in his right hand. "No escape," he said grinning.
She began hitting herself against the door to knock it off its hinges. The man lunged for her, lifted her and threw her on the small bed. She bounced off and landed on the floor. Lissa groaned when her body hit the floor. Her head hurt.
'Large Man' walked menacingly towards her. "Don't come near me! Leave me alone!" she screamed. He grabbed her up and was about to aggressively press his lips on her neck when she heard shattered glass and a rush of air. The man froze. His eyes rolled over slowly in his head. Blood began flowing from his neck. He let her go and fell to the floor. Lissa screamed.
Strong arms held onto her. She looked up but couldn't see her saviour's face, but noted his chest. His scent was familiar. He used a knife and cut the tape on her wrists then lifted her over his shoulder and exited through the shattered glass.
He stood on the deck and lowered her body, wrapping her legs around his hips. "Close your eyes," he said. Lissa held on to him. Clutching her tightly to his chest, he jumped off the yacht into choppy sea waters.
Lissa sat up. Sweat poured over her. She could hear her erratic breathing, and put her hand on her chest. Her heart was racing. What is this now? What kind of dream is this? She lay back, her heart still racing, and wondered what all of that meant.
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