Deep Seal Page 4

  I laughed too. “Yeah, probably not the best place to find a mate.”

  “You know what?” She straightened her back. “I will work harder to find Mr. Right. I can’t give you advice I am not willing to take. There are enough young people in town. I’m sure I could meet a nice guy.” She brought the mug to her lips.

  I didn’t want to hear her talk about finding Mr. Right.

  “The coffee is pretty good.” She smiled.

  “Happy you like it. I order from a small beanery housed outside a rain forest.”

  Her cute mouth dropped open. “Get out of here.”

  “No, I am serious. They harvest the best coffee beans. I order every six months. The last time I was here a few months ago, I left a box. I have plenty at the house. When we return, I’ll give you several packets.”

  “Thanks.”

  I hated my commitment phobia. The perfect woman was in my presence and I wasn’t willing to let her into my heart. See if we had any chemistry. Shit, I knew there was chemistry. But was it only sexual? We both hadn’t had sex in years. She was looking for something I couldn’t give her. Forever. She stared out the window. I stole a glance. Threading my fingers through her hair and crushing those thick lips. I wouldn’t be able to turn them loose. My cock strained my khakis. As long as she didn’t peep into my lap she’d never know.

  “Nadia, I want you to make yourself at home. We’ll be here for a while. Tomorrow morning, I’ll load up my laptop and we’ll watch the surveillance footage. Hopefully, I can get answers.”

  “Great.” She peeled off her sneakers, tucked her legs to her right then leaned her head on my shoulder.

  I needed a cold shower. My cock jumped the second her soft face fell upon my bicep.

  “What was it like when you first entered the Navy?”

  Planting my lips against the top of her head was what I wanted. She was right. I needed to put myself out there and date.

  “Overwhelming. I began lifting weights when I was seventeen. But the rigorous training to become a Sailor could make you sick to your stomach sometimes. Not to mention being out at sea for months on end. The rocking of the ship against the ocean waves kept grown men tossing their cookies.”

  She chuckled.

  “What set me apart from the other Sailors was my sheer

  will to be the best. I mastered every task. And moved up

  the ranks quick.”

  “I bet, Commander.”

  I smiled.

  “Have you ever dated a service man?”

  “No. But I’m not opposed. I know he’d do anything to keep me safe.”

  I couldn’t see her face. I wished I could. Did she mean in general or was she hinting to me?

  “Yes, he would. He’d shred a man for you.” My voice was low and groggy.

  She clutched my arm. “I know.”

  My heart raced.

  “Continue,” she whispered.

  “In my third year, Admiral Cutner recommended I train to become a Navy SEAL. I decided to go for it and became a Navy SEAL Special Operative. I was one of the youngest Team Leaders.”

  “Wow, that’s a real honor. And no one to share those special memories with?”

  “Not true, I had my parents and my brother.”

  “Good thing you had family,” she trailed off.

  The little beauty fell asleep. I sat still enjoying the smell of her hair. I sat my mug on the coffee table, then scooped her up into my arms. She was light as a fucking feather. I stood a moment longer staring at her peaceful face. In that moment I realized I didn’t want to find another woman. I’d rather see if something could progress between us other than sex. I walked into the bedroom, laid her on the bed, and pulled the quilt over her.

  “Stay with me,” she whispered in her sleep. “Keep me safe.”

  I sat at her side. “I will be in the next room.”

  She nodded and turned on her side in a ball. My lips melted against her hair. Almost couldn’t move. I didn’t want to leave her side. Sweeping her hair back, I stared at her soft skin. Aiden, snap out of it. Head in the game.

  I stalked out of the bedroom back to my post. Staring out the window, gripping my Glock.

  CHAPTER EIGHT

  NADIA

  Sunlight peeked through the sheer curtains across my face.

  I sat straight up. How...When did I go to bed? I clutched my eyes shut, squeezing my head.

  Stay with me popped in my head. “Shit!” I said aloud.

  I needed to wait a moment before I faced him. Tossing my feet over the side of the bed, I padded toward the bathroom. Maple bacon dangled under my nose.

  “Breakfast will be ready in ten minutes,” he shouted.

  I placed my hand against my forehead. “Good morning, I’ll be right there.”

  After shedding my clothes, I hopped in the shower. The hot water thudded my skin. Cabin life wasn’t all bad. Thank god for hot running water.

  ∞

  “Good morning, again,” I smiled, pulling my wavy locks into a low ponytail.

  He stood, at the counter, sipping a piping hot mug of coffee.

  “Good morning, have a seat.”

  “Did you sleep at all?”

  “Nope.”

  “Aiden, you need to take a nap.” I bit into a strip of bacon.

  “I will. Right after I teach you how to shoot a gun. You’ll stand watch while I catch a few Z’s.”

  “Sounds fun.” I gulped down the OJ.

  He dropped his head. “It’s not fun, Nadia.”

  I waved off his statement. “May I have a cup of coffee?”

  “Absolutely, would you like a second helping?”

  “Sure. Do you mind?” My fork hovered over the eggs and bacon.

  “Help yourself.” His eyes widened. “You can pack it away to be a petite woman.”

  “I eat breakfast burritos almost every morning.”

  He placed his hand up. “I’ve heard enough.”

  I laughed.

  “Aiden, I’m sure you can pack it away.”

  “Of course. But look at me.” He gestured.

  “What I only see that thick neck.” I chuckled.

  He exhaled then glided his T-shirt over his head.

  My mouth dropped open. I imagined he peeled off his shirt in slow motion. My eyes marveled over every one of his eight pack of abs and those gorgeous tanned pecs. I had a better view of the American flag tattooed on his chest. A purple heart hung on the flag. The biceps on that man were salivating.

  “I work out every day.”

  I remembered to close my mouth. “Where? At the local gym?”

  If he did, I needed to join.

  “In my house. I turned the bedroom on the first floor into a gym.”

  “Nice. You look great. Maybe I need to cut back on the breakfast burritos. I thought running would slim down my ass and thighs. It hasn’t worked yet.”

  His eyebrows rose. “They look perfect. I don’t think you need to touch up your body at all.”

  “Thanks. That’s sweet but, you can’t see what’s under these jeans. My shapely jeans are holding me in place.” I smiled.

  “I saw your... You know never mind.”

  “Aiden, you saw what?” I met his awkward gaze.

  “You ran to the curb in a short robe one morning when I was leaving for work. I saw... everything.”

  Leaning my elbow on the counter, I tented my hand over my brow shielding my eyes. I caught a glimpse of his hardening cock through his camouflage pants. He quickly slid on his shirt in an effort to cover up the bulge. I squeezed my thick thighs together. Shit, I want this man.

  “You enjoy your breakfast. I’ll hop in the shower.”

  “Wait, did you see anyone in the woods last night?”

  “No. After my shower we can view the surveillance footage.”

  “Ok.” I smirked. “Thanks again for breakfast. It’s delicious.”

  “You’re welcome,” he growled over his shoulder, stalking toward t
he bedroom.

  Great, Mr. Grizzly was in another funk. I guess since he chose to be single, he wasn’t supposed to be attracted to me. I don’t think he was happy with himself for the way his cock tented his pants when he talked about my body. I smiled on the inside.

  Shit, if he didn’t know before, he knew now I was attracted to him. I basically begged him to sleep with me last night. How embarrassing. The real reason I didn’t want Aiden in my home was because I knew I couldn’t trust myself around his rock-hard body.

  Fuck, after seeing his rippling muscles... I licked my lips. Wanting him bad was an understatement. He needed a good strong woman in his life who could prove to him she’d love him no matter what. And stand at his side. Not sure he’d let a woman in.

  THE TREES STOOD STILL in the summer heat. I scanned the wooded area from the wooden porch steps. Turning my face to the sky, I smiled as the sun heated my brown skin.

  “What the fuck are you doing?”

  My eyes popped open landing on Aiden. His broad frame blocked the sun. His dripping wet hair dangled in his face. Those dark green eyes burned through me.

  “I wanted to feel the sun on my skin.”

  His big strong arm scooped me up and whisked me inside the cabin. My body shook against his huge frame. He kicked the door shut. Aiden placed me on my feet.

  My heart vibrated in my chest.

  “What were you thinking?” he roared.

  “You said you didn’t see anyone in the woods so I thought it was safe.”

  He stepped closer, towering over me. “It’s obvious you weren’t thinking. My job is to protect you. I can’t do that if you don’t listen.” Worry washed over his face and his chest heaved.

  I placed my hand on his cheek. “Aiden, I am ok.”

  He was like a raging bull ready to plow through anyone who got in his way.

  Slowly, my other hand rose resting on his other cheek. “I am ok, Aiden.” I pulled his face toward me until our lips collided.

  The big beast crushed his big arms around me. I felt safe and secure snug in his arms. I didn’t want him to ever let me go. Our lips twisted and our teeth clashed. He released my lips and stepped back eyes wide.

  “I’m sorry. That wasn’t supposed to happen.”

  He stalked into the bedroom. I followed.

  “Yes, it was, Aiden. I want your heart. I want you to let me in. I don’t want to find another man. I found him.”

  He halted his steps and peeked over his shoulder into my eyes. “No. You can’t handle my life.”

  “Damn, Aiden! Try me.”

  He continued on. I sat on the bed. Aiden dropped to his knees, rummaging through the large duffel.

  He glared at me. “Try you... like a fucking shoe.”

  I flew to my feet. “You know what I meant you brooding ass hole. I see why you’re alone. You don’t want to let anyone in,” I yelled then stormed off.

  Plopping on the couch, I hugged my legs as the tears spilled.

  “I am sorry, Nadia,” the big bear growled.

  “No, you’re not. Just do your fucking job,” I spat, rising to my feet.

  I couldn’t make eye contact. He shattered my pride. I glanced at the machine gun. “Are we training or what?”

  “Yeah.”

  Folding my arms, I followed him outside. We stood amongst the tall trees. “Slip on the safety glasses.” He extended his hand.

  I snatched the glasses out of his hand then slid them onto my face.

  Aiden rambled on about gun safety. I was forced to meet his sad stern gaze. He positioned the AK forty-seven in my hands.

  “Focus on the tree in your path.”

  I stared at the target through the scope. He wrapped his arms around me, holding the weapon still.

  My blood boiled. We needed to hurry up with this lesson.

  Crunching numbers would sure feel good right now.

  “Fire,” he ordered.

  I squeezed the trigger. Several rounds released from the AK forty-seven splintering the tree.

  “Good. Do you think you can handle shooting on your own?”

  “I’ll try.”

  He stepped back.

  I squeezed the trigger again firing shots. My lips curled.

  “I did it!”

  “Good job.”

  We practiced shooting a few different weapons then we moved on to defensive training.

  “Commander Wilder, remember I am a civilian, so take it easy on me?”

  “No.” He swept his leg under mine and my ass thudded the dirt.

  “Fuck you, Aiden.”

  “I know you are angry with me.” He helped me to my feet. I sucker punched him in the gut.

  He didn’t flinch. “What was that?” he chuckled.

  “Ugh.”

  I focused on getting in a few licks.

  Ducking under his arm then extending my leg he blocked my kick with his hand.

  “That’s enough for today.”

  “Good, I’m gross and need a shower.”

  “Join me on the couch afterwards. We can watch the surveillance footage.”

  I nodded.

  The hot water massaged my throbbing ass. Shit, that training was intense. I couldn’t help but think back on our kiss. If he wouldn’t have backed off, we would have made love instead of training. I shook off the dirty thoughts. I refused to think of how strong our sexual attraction was to one another.

  CHAPTER NINE

  AIDEN

  Nadia pushed feelings to the surface I’d never felt. Thinking about those nude thighs from that day made my cock hard as a rock. I stood in the cold shower to gain control. She definitely knew how to push my buttons. But also knew how to calm me. Her soft hand landed against my cheek. Fuck, I wanted to slide deep into her warmth until I filled her womb at least three times.

  She admitted I was the man she wanted. Even after learning about my dangerous life. Nadia thought she wanted a life with me. She was confused.

  One year of living with a man who’d barely be in our home, she’d leave.

  Nadia plopped on the couch at my side bringing me back from my thoughts.

  “I’m ready.”

  Her cold distant eyes stared at the laptop screen.

  I tapped the button, and the video played.

  A man stood in Nadia’s ransacked living room holding a cell in his hand.

  Sir, she’s not here.

  Where the fuck is, she? The man’s voice roared through the speaker.

  I didn’t want to alarm Nadia, but I recognized the voice.

  LT. Commander Kraton Thompson.

  He hated me and I hated him more. His animosity ran deep because I continued to out perform him in BUD’s training.

  The man glanced over his shoulder at the other two men and shrugged.

  She’s disappeared sir. Someone must’ve helped her.

  Fucking, find her. Get traffic cam footage. She can’t be far.

  He disconnected the call.

  “You heard him. Rosco, talk to your buddy in intelligence and get eyes on the streets.”

  They never walked next door to my house. They gathered the men I pulverized and left the premises.

  Nadia gasped and tears streamed down her beautiful cheeks. I embraced her.

  “I’ll keep you safe. Don’t you worry.”

  Knowing Thompson, he was working with a large crew. I didn’t want to call on my brother, but I might need too.

  “Aiden, go take a nap. I’ll guard the window.” She pulled back.

  “Ok. There aren’t any camera’s for miles other than the super store we were at yesterday. If they’re any good and could track us, it would take a couple of days.”

  She nodded, grabbed the AK forty-seven and strolled toward the window.

  “If you see a tree branch move wake me up, ok.”

  “All right.”

  ∞

  I glanced at my blaring watch. It was sixteen hundred hours. I shot up in the middle of the bed, clutching my head.
Strolling into the bathroom, I stared into the mirror. My PTSD hit me hard. I clutched the counter, closed my eyes, and counted to ten.

  “Aiden, are you, all right?”

  “Yeah.” I glanced at Nadia. “Why?”

  “You yelled get down in your sleep.”

  Shit. I ran my fingers through my dark hair.

  “I have PTSD. Sorry if I alarmed you.”

  She placed her hand on my arm. “Never apologize for that.”

  Nadia walked out the bathroom.

  A few minutes later, I relieved her of her duties. She laid on the couch and fell asleep.

  ∞

  Nadia stirred, stretching her arms. “That was a good nap.”

  I peeked at her. “I want to apologize for my rude behavior this morning. I was a fucking asshole.”

  She chuckled. “Yeah, you were.”

  “I am attracted to you.” I clutched my fist and stole another glimpse of her.

  Nadia blushed.

  “The thought of allowing you into my life terrifies me.”

  “You have to open your heart, Aiden. Trust that we could be good together. You don’t know unless you try.”

  I clutched the rifle. “Sometimes, I am away a year at a time. Worse what would you do if I disappeared in active duty?”

  She strolled across the room into my arms. “I’d remember all the good times we shared. And hope you’d come back to me.”

  I closed my eyes, slid my free hand over her ass, and planted my lips against the top of her head.

  “I need to survey the grounds. Nadia, guard the window.

  She pressed her hands against my chest and gazed into my eyes. “Ok.”

  I walked out of the cabin, scanning my surroundings. The lush trees swayed as I trudged through the woods. Staring through the binoculars, I scanned my surroundings. Nothing. Good. I approached the cabin. I caught a glimpse of the sun set over the sparkling lake behind the house.

  “Nadia,” I called.

  She crept toward the door.

  “Yes?”

  “Come here.”

  She scurried down the stairs toward me. “It feels perfect out here.”

  I smiled. “Look.” I nodded in the direction of the lake.