Bringing The Fight

3.

* Jaxxen *

I find out the next day Coralee’s a stubborn f*****g woman when she wants to be when the new wardrobe I ordered for her show up on my doorstep.

"No, thanks!" she refuses to take the gifts to her bedroom, "What made you buy all this stuff? You spent too much Jax!"

I make a pile near the stairs, "You realize your shoes are falling apart, right? It's a safety issue if you stay here. Plus, you need clothes. Well, don't you?"

Coralee glares, but all I see is prideful stubbornness. It was cute the way she pretended her eyes hadn't lit with glee when I said it was all for her after she joked I had an online shopping addiction. I shrug and hold up a box of boots until she lets out a huff, snatching them out of my hands.

"Thank you," she thinks to say before going outside.

Grinning, I pick the s**t up, go into her room, and place everything in her closet. As I’m coming back, I hear her mumbling something about always attracting alpha men. She’s right, but better not clump me with that sick bastard Braden.

Then later Coralee has a problem with me hanging out at the tavern until she’s off work. With her tight clothing and fiery attitude, there’s no way I’m leaving her alone in a barroom full of drunken cowboys looking to score. Her breasts stretch the red top she’s wearing and her ass looks fantastic in dark Levi’s. Men have tracked the sway of her hips since we arrived, and I shake my head at how blind she is to their attention. How did she last a week living on the streets?

"Hiya, Jax," Nason plops down at the table I've been at all night, "Didn't think I'd find you here on a Monday."

I shuffle a worn deck of cards, pretending I’m not keeping an eye on Coralee while she chats up two ranch hands her age. "Things change. How's the homestead?"

"Great." his gaze wanders over to Coralee, "Wow, she cleans up nice."

I clench my jaw.

"Hi," Coralee saunters over, "Need anything boys?"

I offer a knowing smirk, watching her flush. s**t, if I ever doubt how I affect her, that pink tint on her cheeks says it all. I can’t wait to see how far down the blush goes. Patience, I remind myself.

"Beer, please," Nason grins like a good ole boy he is, "How are you settling into our little town? If you want a tour, I’m your man."

"She has one." I blurt, cringing inwardly at the possessiveness in my voice. So much for playing it cool.

Nason regards us both with a quick understanding, "Oh, well... good."

She winks at him and I fight off my first taste of jealousy, "Are you Jax’s friend? I’m working for him."

The man's eyes widened, "I suppose we're friends."

I shrug, "Nason’s solid, Coralee. He keeps to himself and doesn't talk shit."

He chuckles in a self-deprecating way, "Who has time for that when cows need milking?"

"Nice to meet you. I'll get you those beers," she flashes a toothy grin before walking back to the bar.

"You move fast," he bats my arm, "Cora’s working for you?"

I wish he'd go away. If her situation's gossiped around town like she’s a live-in w***e, I’ll know who to pummel. "It’s not a big deal. She’ll manage the house while I’m out surveying my property. Felt bad she has nowhere to stay except Tom’s attic."

He nods, checking my new roommate out again, "That's gallant of you. Very white knight."

“f**k off.”

He laughs, “Relax, she’s not my type.”

Doubtful. He’s so lonely I'm surprised he hasn’t joined that dating site for farmers. After she drops off his beer, he changes the subject and all I have to do is listen. Nason’s a decent guy, but boring as hell. When he left, I saw Coralee in deep conversation with Tom.

I’m waiting on her after the last call when Tom raps his knuckles on the counter, demanding my attention. "I appreciate how you keep to yourself and are a respectful fella, Jax. That being said, Cora isn’t like most women. She’s troubled.”

“Is that so?” I respond dryly, standing to leave.

“Hope you know what you're doing."

I politely smile out of respect for the old-timer, although where she lays her pretty little head is none of his business, "I offered her a job, Tom. She needs the money, and I enjoy her company."

The man scratches his salt and pepper beard, eyeing me wearily, "Sure. Just promise to send her my way if things change, okay?"

I nod, receiving his message loud and clear, "Will do. Tell Coralee I'll be outside."

I won’t sit under his scrutiny, not when he makes me sound like a pervert and outsider. Leaning against my jeep, blow out an aggravated sigh. This time of night, the town’s so quiet I can hear everything. Leaves rustling in trees, nocturnal animals scurrying through the allies. It soothes my nerves. I love the fresh air, how the stars seem brighter out here in the sticks.

Coralee and Tom hug before he locks the security gate, then she slowly makes her way to the empty lot. I watch the sway of her hips, becoming rock hard. She’s oblivious to how affected I am by her mere presence, and I don’t know how to react.

"What?" she grins when I stare at her, “Are you okay?”

I clear my throat, nodding like an i***t before opening the door for her. She’s silent on the drive home. Home. It should feel weird having someone living with me after all these years alone, but when I glance over, catching her relaxed expression in the moonlight, experience contentment.

"Are you hungry?" I ask after we’re inside.

She purses her full lips, shrugging, "Not really, besides, it's late. Where's that list, Jax? You could've worked on that instead of glaring at customers all night."

I stab a hand through my hair, then reach for her without pause. I can’t hold out anymore. She doesn’t hesitate to place her palms on my chest as I dip down to taste her lips. s**t, she wants this kiss as much as I do, her pert little tongue darting around mine, pulling me deeper into territory I shouldn’t venture into. I try to be gentle as I grip her waist, but the warmth seeping through her clothes has me digging in for more. Faster, harder I kiss and squeeze Coralee until I forget to breathe.

She lets out a whimper, and I immediately release her trembling body. Her hazel eyes peer up with heavy lids while we catch our breath. I hadn't meant to turn aggressive, but she’s built for it. I’ve experienced nothing as addicting as Coralee’s lips on mine.

"Sorry," I mumble, stepping away from temptation, "You’re right. It's time for bed. I'll leave a list on the kitchen counter. Goodnight."

Before she can open that sinful mouth, dart into my office. I adjust myself before sitting behind the desk. What the hell is wrong with me? I shake my head in frustration, wondering how far I would have gone if not for the fact she isn’t ready for a relationship.

I called Wylan after reading his email asking me to ASAP, "What's up asshole?"

"Hi to you too, ungrateful d**k,” he mutters, “We have to meet in person.”

"Not possible."

"It’s important."

I sit forward, the worry in his voice raising the fine hair on the back of my neck, "Worse than I thought?"

"Epic s**t-storm prediction thoughts, Jax. I can be there in a few days. Wish I could say more, but nothing is secure."

"Is she safe? Do we need to move?" I demand to know.

"For now you're good," There’s a lull, "She has a different last name that tells a whole other story than that abusive ex. In fact, you should just let her ghost man."

I glare as if he can see me, "Two days, Wylan."

I hang up, wishing he didn’t live so far away. When I come out into the hallway, the house is quiet. I trot upstairs, checking on Coralee. Her strawberry locks shine in the moonlight as she sleeps curled on her left side, blankets up to her chin.

I go to my room, undress, fall into bed before remembering that damn list she keeps nagging me for. Knowing Coralee doesn’t want to feel like a burden, I find a pen and paper, making s**t up for my Sunflower to keep busy with while I maintain distance until Wylan arrives.

* Coralee *

Jax kissed me again.

I wake up so horny it’s ridiculous. I don’t know why he made out with me before bolting like we did something wrong, but it had been perfect. The passion... his mouth needs to come with a panty-melting warning.

I shower, then pull on black skinny jeans with a warm blue sweater. Jax bought me comfortable clothes to fit my tall frame. He’s so thoughtful, and I feel guilty about the way I’d thrown it back in his face. Gah, as usual, he'd simply smiled, not batting an eye. I hope Jax realizes what a dear friend he’s becoming.

After slipping on a pair of fuzzy pink socks, again, so comfy, skip downstairs to make breakfast. I already figured out he’s a big coffee drinker, so start with that. I won’t sit and look pretty while he treats me like a pet project. It’s not my style and insulting. I might live in his house, but I’m also working at Tom’s, allowing my bankroll to grow while I figure out my next move.

A scrap of paper lies on the smooth countertop, as promised, with a list of duties. I smile reading I am to do my laundry, feed the huskies, and sweep the porch. That’s it? Well, at least he fulfilled his end of the bargain.

I’m piling food on two plates when Jax joins me. His attire’s not unusual, but the jeans showcasing his muscular legs should be outlawed because of the amount of drool pooling in my mouth. The long-sleeve Henley his barrel chest protest against makes my cheeks burn. Someday I’ll get over how enormous he is, but today isn’t the day.

Jax accepts breakfast with a cheerful grin aimed at my heart. A cup of coffee disappears down his throat while I fiddle with my fork. He refills his mug, sitting down with me at the kitchen island counter saying, "I’m heading out. I forgot to mention I only go grocery shopping every few weeks, but there are two of us now. Write down your favorite foods, and I’ll grab them tomorrow."

I watch his lips move while he speaks. He didn’t shave, and dark scruff covers his high cheekbones. My palms twitch, wondering if his facial hair would feel soft or coarse under my fingertips. Gah, I’m pathetic. "Yeah, okay, sounds good. I could create a weekly menu... I mean, if you’re here for meals."

He smiles at my subtle line of questioning, "I will be. Don’t worry. I want to do everything with you, Sunflower."

I lean forward, "Have you always been this kind towards women on the run?"

He chuckles, picking up a piece of toast, "No. Thank you for cooking. Taste great."

That’s my cue to stop ogling Jax and eat. He finishes, tells me he’s taking the dogs, then drives off in the jeep.

I’m alone for the first time in days and it feels strange.

Jax is so trusting. I sit on the porch, sipping the last of my coffee after loading the dishwasher. Jax keeps his place clean and I know he said he prefers the outdoors, but he also takes pride in his home. There’s not a speck of dust on any of his beautiful furniture. I noticed right away the uniqueness of the bookcases and tables dotted throughout the cabin aren’t run-of-the-mill finds.

I love the peaceful quietness of his land. Jax seems to have everything he could ever need but wonder if I can talk him into building a vegetable garden or chicken coops. I always wondered what it would be like to gather fresh produce from a farm every day. Jax claims he spends all his time exploring his property, but maybe now I’m here, he'll let me make a few changes.

I yank on the new boots he bought me then walk the perimeter of the house, noting the security lights and cameras. They look high tech, but won’t stop Braden. I shiver, picturing Braden standing on that lovely porch telling Jax what a useless little w***e I am. Eight months have passed and I still hear the echo of his perverse taunts.

“You’re a slut, princess. My slut, and no one touches what’s mine.”

Determined to forget about Braden, collect my dirty clothes before searching for the laundry room since Jax hasn’t given me a tour. That man doesn’t seem to care what I do around here, as long as he knows where to find me. I locate it off of the kitchen and the appliances are top of the line which takes me several minutes to figure out but washers are washers.

I uncover the heavy push broom next, taking all my frustration out on the weather-stained deck. Hoping for a distraction, and to help Jax, I work up a sweat. Yeah right, as if cooking and tidying can pay him back for the hundreds he’s forked out buying my clothes. I drop the brush where I found it, then run upstairs to hide in the softest bed I've ever slept in.

My mind fills with terrible memories.

“You don’t deserve to sleep in the same room as me after your selfish behavior. I asked you to serve my boys’ tequila, not attitude,” Braden’s hot breath fans the back of my neck as he twists my hair, shoving a foot behind my kneecap until I buckle at his feet, “Kneel when I’m speaking to you, b***h. I’ve placed a dog mat on the floor. That’s your new bed. Just because I don’t share, doesn’t mean you’re better than them. You’re nothing but a mutt I snatched out of the gutter. Learn your place, slut.”

I can’t breathe.

What am I going to do?

The cheerful afternoon beckons with chirping birdies for me to lower my guard. I pull the comforter over my head to block out the sunshine. I’ll never be safe while Braden’s alive. He's told me that enough times I believe it. A panic attack makes my chest tighten. I’ve endured them for years, but it’s been a while. I roll into the fetal position, drawing shallow breaths into my shrinking lungs.

I’m so stupid to even consider Jax’s help. Every time I think I’m safe, Braden’s not far behind. What am I still doing here? It’s not his duty to stand up to Braden. I’m endangering this charitable man. Why? For showers and a regular sleeping arrangement?

I fling the blanket across the room with determination.

Dashing downstairs, I nearly fall flat on my face because the fuzzy socks have no traction. Wait, my purse! Where is it? I spot my bag hanging from the beautifully handcrafted coat rack resembling a small tree and toss the strap around my collar. As I’m tugging on my old shoes, pout at the cute boots I’m leaving. Worth it, if it keeps Jax out of danger.

Not caring how isolated Jax’s cabin is from town, I jog until reaching the worn pavement signaling the end of his driveway. Shoot, I should have scribbled a so-long note. He might freak out after discovering I moved. Damn panic attacks!

Looking up and down the empty road, pause for a moment to catch my breath. I usually have a plan when I travel, but I let myself grow careless since laying eyes on Jax. There are only a few hundred dollars in my pocket from working for Tom. I suppose I can take the bus a few towns over in search of employment.

I’m such a disorganized mess. Damn that silver-eyed man and his effect on my libido!

I resume a brisk pace towards Perla until hearing a vehicle. Glancing over my shoulder, see Jax’s black Jeep speeding down the desolate road. How did he find me so quickly? I freeze like a deer in the headlights until he comes to a sharp stop a few feet away. His mountain of a body leaps out with ease as he stalks over to me.

"What are you doing?" His intense gray eyes pin me in place, and I flinch at the disappointment in his harsh tone of voice, “Why are you out here?”

I expected anger, but Jax raises his arms as if he wants to touch me, but afraid to. He swallows, stabbing a hand through his hair. I slump my shoulders in defeat.

"I panicked," I softly admit, "Braden will hurt you if he finds me here, Jax. You might not fear him, but he’s evil. Plus, you ask too many questions."

He stabs both of his hands through his dark locks, huffing, "s**t Coralee, you scared the f**k out of me. Don’t you trust me? Did I do something else to make you leave other than dig into your past?"

"No!" I grip his arm, admiring the way his corded muscles flex when he makes a fist, "I mean yes, I think you're wonderful and I want to live with you, but he’ll ruin your life too. I can't stand the thought of him coming near you!"

Jax brings me in for a hug, kissing the crown of my head, "He wouldn't get a mile close enough, Sunflower. I left you alone too soon. Come on, let's go home so we can talk about this."

Home. I haven’t had one of those since I was seventeen.

I swallow my anxiety. "Okay. I was... I don't know what to do anymore, Jax."

He tilts my neck upward with a sharp yank of my hair before giving me a soft peck on the lips. I’m starting to crave Jax’s kisses. The possessive way he handles my body. His strong arms release me and the warmth he leaves behind makes my heart ache for more. He stalks back to the jeep, and I follow quickly.

Jax keeps his eyes on the road, jaw ticking, refusing to look at me while he drives, so I shower Ren and Stimpy with attention until he parks in front of the cabin. He doesn’t wait to see what I will do as he situates the dogs before lumbering indoors. I hesitate on the porch. Jax treats me with respect, yet I've seen men like him angry before.

"Coralee," Jax’s rich timber calls, "I'm not mad, come inside before I change my mind on your surprise."

I bite my lip. Surprise? I slip off my shoes and shut the door after entering. He sits on the dark blue sofa sectional in the living room. I slowly sink onto the cushion to him, wondering if he’ll kick me out after my stunt. He gives me another panty-melting smile, holding up a small box. I frown in refusal, not deserving kindness.

Jax sighs and seems to choose his words carefully, "I won’t tell you not to worry Braden may discover you in Montana, Coralee," he drops the package between us, "If a man came after me, I'd just take him out. You’ve overcome a lot. I understand the need to protect yourself. I get it."

Take them out? Such a bold statement, but at least he admits I have every reason to hate my former captor. That’s what he was — my jailer. I’ll never return to how I lived under lock and key with Braden as my only companion. I would rather die.

Tears threaten to fall, so I drag my eyes away. Outside the beautiful floor to ceiling window is a glorious afternoon, but I’m frozen inside. "Thank you, Jax."

"You’re capable of taking care of yourself. You can do anything." he sounds so certain, I nearly preen with pride except he’s wrong. My past is chasing me and it’ll cost me everything. "I have a friend arriving tomorrow who’s dependable. We’re going to figure out why Braden kidnapped you. Do you not trust me? My only goal here is to help you."

Oh, he thinks I ran because I’m scared of him. Hesitantly, I place my palm on his large bicep. Jax doesn’t react, remaining immobile while my conscience scolds me for acting impetuously. He flexes under my touch, either by accident or because he wasn’t expecting the contact. His skin feels warm and oddly comforting. We’ve kissed before, but this seems more intimate.

“Your fingers are ice cold,” he comments with concern, “Are you alright?”

“It’s just a side effect from the panic attack,” I mumble, retracting my hand.

Bolting from the sofa after losing cool points, try to express my convoluted emotions the best I can. "Those I trusted before wanted something in return. I like you, but my issues run deep. I don't know what else to say."

He squints up at me with a knowing smirk, “I’ll earn your trust. You aren’t the only one fighting demons. Now, where were you headed?”

I groan in embarrassment while he waits patiently for me to get my s**t together. He’s older and more mature about these things. I’ve never had to explain myself because nobody cared. Jax makes me so flustered!

“As I contemplated a future here, I worried Braden would find me. I tried to keep busy but heard his voice telling me how stupid I am. How he would persuade you into believing I’m nothing but a w***e. He used to do that to random people in public.”

Jax brows lower over his steel-colored eyes, “Do what?”

I turn back to the window because I can’t bear to watch his reaction, “He loves playing head games. He’d drag me to restaurants, and no matter if I avoided eye contact with men, eventually he’d pick one out and start a conversation. He would ask, does your sister, girlfriend, or wife not wear panties when they go out? I've told her it isn't respectable, but then it does make me horny, I mean, look at her." With a flick of my tongue over my teeth, my mouth runs away at the memory, "Braden laid out my clothes every morning. I’d wake up and put on what he chose. They always skirted on the edge of inappropriate, and guys would assume I really was a nympho, and he was a saint for taking charge of my wayward ass, but who even has those types of exchanges?”

“You behaved well, Cora,” Braden groaned as I sucked him off in our bed, “I could smell your arousal when that man said he’d eat your ass if you met him in the bathroom stall. So naughty. If you swallow every drop, I’ll lick your sweet p***y. You want me to, right?” he brushes my hair aside to meet my watery stare, "Right, Cora? I will reward you for your obedience. Remember that. You're lucky I love you.”

I moaned around his c**k, my center wet from his approval. Then his fingers tightened on my larynx, choking me. I kept my jaw relaxed as he stabbed his d**k down my throat until he finished. I nearly passed out before he released me with a smug grin, “You're tired. Perhaps another time. Also, maybe next time you won't act like a f*****g zombie when I promise pleasure. Ungrateful little b***h, sleep on the dog bed tonight.”

Braden pushed me away, rolled over, and fell asleep knowing I would do what he ordered.

"Coralee," Jax’s deep rasp pulls me back from dark memories. His expression holds no sympathy or anger, only acceptance, "He picked perverted assholes to demean you. Do you really think I'd let that sick f**k convince me you are anything but a wonderful person?"

Gah, he’s so rational. "No, but Braden’s a manipulator. I wish I had met you the first time I left him."

He sighs heavily, "I'm here now. What did you plan on doing after walking all the way into town?"

I sit back down, tossing my hands in the air, "No idea," I laugh humorlessly, "I thought if I got away from here he wouldn't find out about you. He’ll kill you if he realizes we’re living together."

"You weren't running from me?"

I turn on my knees facing him and he leans in, meeting my earnest stare, "No, not at all Jax. I swear. You're so incredibly sweet. I've been in this house for only a few days, and it’s surreal how comfortable I am."

His calloused fingers graze my cheek, "Good. Don’t leave, Coralee. Stay with me. I want you here."

"Me too," I confess, scooting closer until the heat of his body mixes with mine, "Thank you for your kindness. For hearing me out and not judging me for behaving like a lunatic."

He inhales sharply, laying his palm on my leg, "Stop it. I’m glad you escaped his terrible influence. No need to thank me, Sunflower. Everything will be okay."

I kiss Jax again and sag with relief when he responds. He wraps a muscular arm around my shoulder, taking control, pulling me onto his lap. His touch is firm but gentle at the same time. Jax knows how to kiss as he tilts my hips so my breasts crash against his broad chest. He slides his hand down my back as his warm, wet tongue slowly and thoroughly explores my mouth. I’m lost in the sensual movement of his lips over mine when he squeezes my right ass cheek before smacking it.

“Ah!” I squealed in surprise, “Jax!”

He chuckles, giving me a sexy smirk. "That's enough. I won’t rush you."

I inwardly pout, but he has a point. We have a lot to figure out before becoming intimate. We’re in a better place, but now I’m turned on. My emotions are on a roller-coaster without brakes today!

"You're not," I assure before nipping his bottom lip, "Touch me, Jax."

He groans, and it rumbles across my skin, hitting me where I need it most. Gripping my waist as I caress his hair, his lower half shifts to accommodate my weight. He keeps the sides short, but his mop of dark locks are soft as I imagined, and I grab a fistful, urging him on. Again our mouths melt together and I explore his brawny chest and shoulders with abandon. He’s hard everywhere, including the hidden package pressed against my upper thigh. When I reach down, he stops me with a tight tug on my wrist.

We regard each other breathlessly.

"You test my restraint, Coralee," he mumbles, and I shiver at the heavy lust in his voice. With one last kiss, he plucks me back onto the cushion as if nothing happened, "How about we make dinner then watch a movie?"

Disappointed, but satisfied, I agree, "Laundry calls." I stand on shaky knees, catching him adjusting himself. "I'm sorry I worried you, Jax."

"I understand," he hands me the box I forgot about, "For you, my Sunflower."

Smiling shyly, I open the gift. A necklace? He’s given me a sunflower charm the size of my thumb, strung on a thick silver chain. It’s cute and thoughtful. "Wow, you’re so generous. I love it. Thank you."

Jax handles the pendant deftly for having such meaty fingers, "Keep it on, so you always have a piece of me with you. Promise?"

I looked up into his clear gray eyes, "Okay."

He is too good to be true, this man.