Page 13 of Preacher's Property

“What you doin’, baby?”

I startle at the sound of his voice and pull my ear off the wall. I wasn’t even eavesdropping. I was trying not to crumble at the thought of him going back to the clubhouse.

“I thought you’d left.”

“Leave without saying goodbye? Never. I was outside taking a call, was waiting to warn you about that.” He looks toward Payton’s room, and another grunt comes from the other side of the wall. “Come on, babe. Let’s go talk outside.”

I don’t know why my feet feel so heavy, but every step toward the door weighs me down.

“So, this is goodbye?” I ask.

He steps forward, pulling me in close.

“Not by a long shot, babe. I still have a bet to win.” He winks. “But King’s back from out east and he’s called church, so I have to ride out. I’m hoping I get to see you tomorrow, though. We’re having a celebration at the clubhouse. I want you to be there.”

“I don’t know if I can make it.” I don’t know if I want to see all those women trying to flirt with him.

“Do you have some hot plans?” His jaw suddenly tenses.

“No, I just…” What am I supposed to say? Admitting I’m uncomfortable around the sweetbutts admits my jealousy. Admitting my jealousy shows I have feelings. And feelings chase away men like him.

“You better start explaining, babe. Did that cop get into your head about associating with me?”

He thinks this has to do with Dusty. No. This has to do with me falling in love with him.

“I’m not really interested in competing with all those ‘club girls’ for your attention. I’m sure you’ll be preoccupied and won’t even know I’m not there.”

“Pack a bag, babe.”

“Pack a bag?”

“I intend to win the bet. And when I do, you’re mine.”

A shiver rocks through my shoulders. Those dark eyes are burning over my skin, lighting up every nerve.

“I don’t think you realize how competitive I am, Preacher.” I also like to avoid heartache at all costs.

“So am I. And tomorrow night, I promise you’re going to be screaming victory when I’m fucking you with my tongue.”

I grip his chest, trying not to sway forward. Dusty rarely gave oral sex. He was more of a taker than a giver.

“I’m not like those girls, Preach. I want more from a man than just sex.”

“I know you’re not like those girls. You’ve proven that from the start. And believe me, I wouldn’t be working so damn hard if this was only about sex.”

Those butterflies start to soar. This could be the start of something. Something incredible.

9

Preacher

She’s late.

Two fucking hours late.

I’m about to drive my ass to her place and find out what the fuck is going on.

I’ve been counting down the seconds until I see her. Tonight is the night. At least, it was supposed to be the night until she decided not to show.