Hawke (Protective Hero: Noble Network #2)

Chapter 17

Chapter

Seventeen

H awke slowed the vehicle and made a call. “We’re here.” Hawke laughed. “Of course, you saw us coming. I was trying to be polite.” He winked at Kinley. The place was like a fortress. The steel gate opened slowly and they inched forward. Kinley leaned closer to the windshield to get a first look, hoping for Narnia. Hawke pulled into the drive.

Kinley dropped her jaw in awe. “What is this, DEA central?”

“It appears.” Hawke shrugged his shoulders. “Nothing but the best for you.” He winked.

Gunner and CJ were practically on their bumper, flashing their lights. Cade Winslow and Sutton Bishop waited with other agents, like a force of nature. Most were intimidating when they needed to be, but getting to know the Winslow’s and everyone associated with the family during the trials gave her insight to how tough and resilient their circle was. They were honorable, kind people and had been through their share of heartache. She turned around and, as easily as the gate opened, it closed them in. Kinley didn’t realize how the closing of the barriers released the stress she held close. Tension eased from her shoulders.

Hawke grabbed her hand and squeezed it. “Ready?” He glanced at the rear-view mirror. “Watch out, trouble’s coming.”

“I’m sure she wants the tea.”

Hawke glanced at her and raised a brow. “She’s getting to you too?”

“Hard not to. I’m expecting she wants to know the roadside stop details.” She covered her mouth, but a chuckle escaped.

Hawke turned the ignition off and twirled the keys around. “I’ll never get used to this dialogue. I’ll stick with simple.”

“Simple is not a way I’d ever describe you.”

CJ dashed to the passenger side of the vehicle; yanking open the door before Kinley had a chance. Gunner treaded around his vehicle, greeting Hawke as he closed the door to the blue pickup.

Kinley whipped around at the enormity of the property. The vegetation, with immense trees, bushes and plants galore, gave her a peaceful Zen feeling. She closed her eyes, inhaled deep, and felt her shoulders lower, which didn’t last long, as CJ tugged at her arm.

“Something else, isn’t it? You’d need climbing gear to get over the wall surrounding the property. They don’t mess around.”

“It’s awe-inspiring.” There were two major homes in the property’s front, one an older home with upgrades and one a newer build, with large trees and bushes. There was no doubt, by the sheer size of the acreage, this was a family commune. There was another place to the back of the property which could easily be an in-law house or guest accommodations. An oversized deck bordered the house with a firepit, further back was a weathered barn, a four-car garage and another one at the right. There was a playground for children and a few motorized toy cars. “I want to live here.”

“Me too, who wouldn’t?” CJ responded.

It made perfect sense for Cade and Connor Winslow to live here with their families. After everything they had gone through over the years, they’d secure a life protecting their families and loved ones.

Cade Winslow trudged over and pointed. “This was our family home; Connor and I were raised here. The one thing we could never get rid of after our parents died. Connor, Ellie, and the twins live there.” Kinley had a lump in her throat. Their parents’ deaths had changed everything in Solemn Creed. “It’s beautiful.”

He hitched a thumb to the new residence across the property. “This is mine and Lina’s. We might have to add on sooner versus later.”

“I heard you have two children now.”

“Yes, still sounds weird, but the adoption should be final any day now. It’s been a long process, but worth it.”

“Congratulations,” CJ said and hugged Cade.

“Ladies, look around. Make yourself home in the guest house. We have business to discuss with Hawke and Gunner.” He took off at a jog to the rest of the men.

“Wow, I literally just got chills. See?” Kinley raised her arm to show CJ.

“This place does that to me too. Cade and Connor have both welcomed me into the fold. I feel blessed they showed such grace, forgiving me. All of them, Lina, and Ellie too. They’re an extended family since their cousin Jackson Honeycutt is my brother-in-law. The Triple Ds bike club have affected all of us. It’s not a club I’d ever desire to be in, but here we are. Law enforcement call them a gang. It fits. Unfortunately, you too, Kinley.”

“I concur. The best thing that’s come out of all of this is Hawke. I’m truly grateful to have him at my side.”

CJ jabbed her. “I get what you’re saying, girlfriend. I can see the way you look at Hawke. You care for him.”

Kinley tucked a hair behind her ear. “I do.”

“Fess up. You were smooching off the road.”

“I plead the fifth,” Kinley said with a smirk.

“Whatever. He’s an amazing person, a little scary at first, but he’s a force like no other. Hawke kept us alive for all those years—well, Gunner and the gang too—but he’s very introspective and can work out a plan and before any of us see it to the end. He’s analyzed everything,” CJ said as she leaned against the front of the vehicle.

“I see that. Have you ever seen him with a woman?” Kinley waited pensively, pushing her glasses higher up her nose.

“I’ve seen them swarm around him, but he never seemed affected. You know—bad boy image. I think he’s private about those things. I will admit, I’ve never seen him look at any woman like he looks at you. I think it pisses him off that someone like you got through the barbed-wire cage he keeps himself in.”

“I prefer the way he looks at me when his shackles release. I’ve only seen glimpses. Hawke’s a challenge in that respect, but I wouldn’t be this forward or patient for anyone else. I feel strongly we’re meant to be. It may take some convincing on my behalf, but I’m all in.”

“There’s no other way to be, Kinley. I think you’re good for him. But if you hurt him, Gunner and I will knock your lights out. No offense, but it is what it is.”

“Don’t worry. I have enough enemies.”

“Ha! Hawke enjoys being a badass, but somewhere under all his tough guy persona, the perfect woman will see who he really is. He can scare you one second and the next have you laughing to the point you’ll surely pee your pants. But mostly when he cares for someone, he will do anything to protect you and that comes from his moral compass. He fought for our country with a certain code, not a Noble Network job description either. He holds himself to the highest standard.”

“Everything you’ve told me makes me want him more. I have this deep seeded tie that’s strong. I can’t explain it, but I know he’s special. Hawke doesn’t know exactly how special.”

“That’s it. I’m glad you said it—I wasn’t going to.” CJ hugged her tight. “Watch out. They’re coming our way, and they have the suspicious eyeballing. If we pretend it’s girl stuff, they won’t continue to ask questions. Trust me.” CJ gave Kinley a wink.

Hawke folded his arms across his massive chest, his legs spread in his usual stance. “What are you ladies talking about? It looks deep."

“You know, women stuff, personal hygiene things.” CJ gave a devious smirk.

“Oh hell, I can help you with anything but that.” Hawke’s demeanor instantly changed with the dialogue.

Kinley inched closer. “Are you sure. I was wondering where I could buy …?” she jested.

Hawke plugged his ears. “Nope, not gonna listen. Walked into that once with CJ and learned to walk away.” Hawke grabbed a bag from the trunk. “I’ll show you your new quarters for the night. CJ, you too. The place is big enough for pretty much another eight people.”

Kinley went to the back of the vehicle. “A bunk house? No privacy?”

“You never know.” He winked. “Let’s check out the space and beat them to the best room. Run!”

Kinley took off in a flash, giggling. CJ was close behind.

Hawke stopped Gunner. “Let them handle it. You didn’t fall for that female crap, did ya?”

“Nah, not a chance. CJ always loved messing with us, talking periods and tampon stuff, but she came clean. She thinks she’s sly, so don’t tell her I told you.”

“Told me what?” Hawke slapped Gunner on the back. “It’s great having you back, but don’t you ever say those words again.”

“Guess we have a little downtime before we go over the plan with Sutton and Cade. Some of the crew will be here later. The others are with Richards, and they have some other shit to take care of,” Gunner said.

They walked over to the place they were staying and opened the door. Gunner yelled, “Honey, I’m home.”

Hawke raised a brow. “Really?”

CJ pranced down the stairs. “This place is humongous. I suggested we’re still newlyweds and needed privacy, if you know what I mean.” She winked and gave a jab. “We’ll stay on the first level, and you can stay up in the attic. The mid floor for whoever.”

“CJ, really? TMI.” Hawke shook his head and pointed. “Is Kinley this way?”

She nodded and said, “Yes, two flights of stairs. Don’t do anything we wouldn’t do.”

Hawke stopped mid step. “CJ. Now you’re just teasing me. We’re eating in an hour or so. I’m cleaning up.” He turned back around and opened the fridge. The place was fully stocked. He grabbed a beer and a small split of bubbles. He looked at CJ again. “Not a word.”

“Moi?” She placed a hand to her mouth. “Missed your face, Hawke.”

Kinley paced nervously, whooshing her hair away. She squirted a mist of body spray on her neck and rubbed it on her wrists. She cupped her hand over her mouth and ran to the adjoining restroom and brushed her teeth. Kicking off her shoes, she flew on the bed, only to miss it and land on the floor.

Hawke tapped on the door. “You decent?”

“Kind of,” she said in a muffled voice. “Come in.”

He opened the door. “Where are you?”

She waved a hand in the air. “I fell, I guess.”

Hawke erased the distance, setting the drinks down. “First thing. Are you okay?”

She nodded. “My ego’s bruised.”

Hawke extended his hand, getting Kinley almost upright. He lost his footing and fell back on the bed with her toppling over him. “That wasn’t exactly my plan.” He wiggled his brows.

“Appears like a fantastical idea, if you ask me.” She continued to slip, and he drew her closer, pulling up so they were nose to nose. “You have the privacy you wanted, and I brought refreshments.” He looked over to the small table near a chair. “Beer or wine?”

She looked at him and crinkled her eyes. “You look more like a whiskey and beer man, not the champagne type. Lucky for me, I love bubbles.”

They both jockeyed for position to get up off the bed, but the more they moved, the less they wanted to get up. Hawke turned to his side, anchoring his elbow firmly on the mattress and rested his head on his hand. “Come here.” He pulled her closer. Kinley wrapped an arm over his waist. He leaned closer and kissed her softly on the lips. “You taste as good as you did earlier.”

“We can thank my toothpaste for the assistance.”

“I think it’s you.”

“Doubtful.” She choked on the lump in her throat and tried to sound normal.

“As much as I’d love laying here with you, I’m dying of thirst.”

“I noticed there’s bottles of water in the small refrigerator.” She pointed to the alcove area near an old-fashioned popcorn machine. She jumped up and grabbed a plastic bottle. Hawke laid on the bed with his hands laced behind his head watching her. She twisted the top of the champagne bottle and handed Hawke the water, but before he took it, she chugged part of it down. Before pouring herself a glass, Kinley took a healthy swig the bottle of bubbles.

“You, okay?” He leaned against the headboard, crossing one ankle over the other. “Nervous?” His gaze softened, words dripping with concern.

“Uh, hello, about my entire life right now, but mostly because I’m alone with you and there’s a lock on the door.”

“Kinley, we’re just talking. Anything more, you call the shots, as you often do.” He smirked.

“Funny.” She threw a pillow at him. “I’m a little out of my comfort zone. Without question, I know wholeheartedly it’s you I want.” She winced, gauging his response. “There. I said it.”

Hawke shifted and rubbed his chin. “You have my full attention. I’m in unfamiliar terrain.” His pitch and tone changed. “I know nothing about romance and I’m certainly not your typical hearts and flowers guy. But I’m willing.” He stammered and inhaled deep. “With you.” You bring out a part of me I thought was long gone.” He cleared his throat. “A side where I dared trusting someone with…” He paused and pointed to his chest. I’m open to whatever this is for however long you can kick it with me.”

Kinley sat next to Hawke. “And who said you weren’t the hearts and flowers type of guy?” She put a hand to her chest, her cheeks warm. “The fact you are willing to put yourself out there for me—for us—is ground-shaking.” She looked around and latched onto his hand. “We’re not having an earthquake, right?”

He turned his head to the left then the right. “Nope.”

“See, I couldn’t tell the difference.”

“Funny.” He closed his eyes and chuckled softly.

She pressed a hand along his cheek, running her nails over his stubble. “I have very few expectations of you. I only want you to open a little and maybe let me in. I have zero intention of hurting you.” She ran her finger across his jaw and lowered it to his neck. He flinched and his body tensed.

“I think you’ve had enough hurt in your past.” She waited for his body to relax. “Tell me about your burns. Is this when you lost your men in your unit?” She pressed her hand to his shoulder and down his arm, tracing the crosses with initials. He inhaled deep and scrunched his eyes closed. Kinley moved closer, kissing his cheek, trailing her lips along his neck and whispered, “I want to know everything you have to say, even the things you only tell yourself.” She could hear the thudding sound of his heart.

She ran lazy circles over his skin and traced the lines and indentations of his muscles. She wanted to memorize the intricacies of his tattoos and scars, recognizing each one had a story. “Please talk to me.”

“I’m not sure I can. So much of it is ugly.” He eyed the exit.

“Then I’ll wait until you’re ready. I’m not going anywhere.” Kinley outlined the first cross with ease.

As if on cue, he blurted, “Andrew Green was from a small town in Nebraska.”

She tapped the second cross.

“Jonathan Kramer. He had a quick wit. From Jersey.”

Kinley outlined the third cross.

“Henry Turley, big as a tank, pushed me out of the way and took the hit meant for me. I tried to save them, but I was badly burned and hit with shrapnel. They told me Gunner, Hunter, Ryker, and Axel carried me on a makeshift stretcher three miles to a safe zone, I heard stories later how Luca and Tiny moved the rest of the platoon out to retaliated gunfire on the enemy. I was medevac’d by helicopter and spent months in the VA and rehab.”

Kinley gasped and held back tears, inching closer as he fought the emotions that bubbled closer to the surface. She listened intently.

“I let them down.” He winced and shook his head.

“How can you say that? You have survivor’s guilt.”

His shoulders dropped. “I was their commander. They trusted me with their life.” His breath caught in his throat. He turned away. “It should have been me, not them. They had families.”

“It almost was.” Kinley’s tone softened, and she ran a soothing touch across his cheek and along his jawline. “You were in combat, fighting for our country. Having a family or not does not give your life any less value. You are here for a reason.” She prayed he heard the words she chose carefully.

He opened and closed his mouth, then tapped a finger to his lips. “I should have tried harder, but I was badly injured myself.” Hawke’s brows pulled in. “After years, my therapist finally got that through my thick skull, but it still hurts like a son of a bitch.” A smile wavered.

“Your scars or wounds?” She ran a hand through his hair.

“Got a lot of them. Some run deeper than others, but the ink somehow helped the process. I couldn’t live there anymore.”

She pressed her finger to his lips. “From what I’ve witnessed you do nothing halfway. That’s what I love about you the most, and your tattoos are hot as hell.” She could feel the heat spread across her face. “Thank you for trusting me enough, sharing something so personal.” She didn’t want to push anymore. She had other things on her mind.

Kinley repositioned herself, climbing on top of Hawke and whispered in his ear. “Too forward?”

She favored this new side of herself in her personal space. Controlling the narrative in the courtroom was something she’d spent years mastering. In her personal relationships, it would be overkill, not that there was anything to speak of with her grueling schedule. Dominating Zane Hawkens was all together a side of her she hadn’t seen coming, but she didn’t hate this new roleplay.

“I love a powerful woman who doesn’t mince words.” Hawke shifted under her and placed his hands on her waist, pulling her close. “I’m done talking.”

His hooded dark gaze devoured, sending shockwaves of desire. He bit at the tender flesh where her neck and collarbone met. Kinley arched her back as heat pulsed throughout her center, sending a ripple of murmurs to escape.

His movements were raw and intense, like a caged animal being released.

A low moan rumbled in his chest. He nipped at flesh and goosebumps prickled her skin. His tongue swept across her lips and delved deep. Frenzied, powerful hands roamed and squeezed. Kinley braced her palms over his taut pectorals, then she forked her fingers through his hair, pulling and tugging his dirty blond locks. “I just want to eat you all up.” She ground her bottom against his manhood. Her privates quivered in torment. She tugged at his cotton shirt and pulled it over his head. “I want to see what else you’re hiding under your shirt.”

This was the first time she had seen the artwork under his clothing. His neck and arm were the only tattoos she’d noticed before, but half his chest was covered with impressive art of military, war, sorrow, loss, and a binding brotherhood. Patterns of ink leaped and morphed into shades of greys to blood red. Patriotic patterns of life, liberty, and tragedy of war. He was proud to be a warrior, though his scars ran deep as the blood in his veins. Having heard what, he went through gave everything more meaning. So much pride and honor swirled through each design. A lump lodged in her throat, instantaneously she wanted to weep. Areas of his chest had burns that shined and rippled the skin. She inspected and ran her hands over his massive chest, glorifying the man and his heart-wrenching experience. Kinley craved to see it all, memorizing the most beautiful canvas she had ever seen.

He dragged in a heavy breath. Hawke tracked her, gauging what she suspected was a reaction, but she had none. No judgement. I see only Zane. He was marred, vulnerable, exposing himself to her watchful gaze. He is safe. Moisture filled her eyes, and she didn’t turn away. She couldn’t.

“Gory as shit, isn’t it?” he said hoarse and low, before turning away as if ashamed. Hawke draped his arm, covering his eyes. His lips pinched.

“Don’t you dare do such a thing.” She pulled his arm aside. “Zane, it’s not, not at all. It’s you, yours…” She held back a sob. “It’s a chapter of your story.” She wiped her eyes with the back of her hand. “Don’t you get it? Your biography. And I have never beheld such magnificence in my entire existence. You move me.” She sucked in an anguished rasp. “I see you. I want it all, every part.”

She caressed his chest in tender circular movements, dragging the pads of her fingers up and down, then repeated the soothing motions. Inhaling every part of him. He shifted, his stormy turbulent eyes were softer and brighter. His gaze spoke volumes, and his barriers receded. He didn’t need to say anything. The feeling was instinctual and shook her to her core . He cupped her face and took her mouth. His tongue stroked and swirled, leaving her in a state of euphoria. She pressed against his erection. She wanted closer. He flipped her onto her back and lifted her shirt over her head. Her eager fingers shook as she unbuckled his belt and pulled it through the loops, tossing it onto the floor. Kinley unbuttoned the top button and inched the zipper lower. She stalled, observing the man who seeped his way into her heart and possessed every waking thought.

“My turn.” Hawke bit his bottom lip and ran a finger over her neck and down between her breasts. She wiggled as he trailed a finger, outlining her bra. Her nipples pebbled with anticipation. “Tell me more about your tattoo.”

“It’s a mantra, a reminder to always believe in your power when the odds are stacked against you. I’ve fought and worked for everything. It’s also a message of hope that the right person will accept me fully, without preconceived notions of what they think me to be.”

“ Don’t stop believing . I like it.” He kissed the soft spot at her wrist where her tattoo was. “You like?

Her teeth chattered. “Like is an understatement. I love it when you touch me.” She squirmed.

Hawke slipped a hand under her bra and slowly laid on his side. He ran a finger up and down the strap. Shifting in the bed and repositioning himself, he burrowed his face into her hair. “How could you have such an effect on me in this timeframe?”

“Getting to know one another on this level has been unconventional. Trust me, this is not the way I saw this playing out between us. I have had visions of us since I first laid eyes on you.”

“You too, huh?” He let out a sexy groan.

“I think it’s official. We’re throwing caution to the wind. Who knows what tomorrow, or the next will bring. It’s time for both of us to see this through, don’t you think?” She nodded. “Any thoughts?”

“Thoughts. A few.” He wiggled his eyebrows, followed by a lick of his lower lip. “None have to do with talking.” He trailed a finger to her belly button.

She squirmed below him. “Guess there’s your answer.” She reached around her back and unhooked her bra.

Hawke eased over her and kissed her softly, then moved lower and cupped one of her breasts, swirling circles around her pebbled bud. His mouth lavished her breasts, and she quivered with each intoxicating sensation. Hawke’s tenderness tickled her lady parts. He stuck a thumb under the waistband of her leggings and teased. She shivered with excitement.

He stalled and his piercing gaze bore into hers. Waiting, pensive, as if he wasn’t certain if she wanted what was about to happen.

Kinley cradled his head in her hands, kissed his forehead, and looked deep into his eyes. “I want this, and I want you, Zane Hawkens. My answer to anything you inquire is a resounding yes.”

He yanked her leggings down along with her panties, tugged them over her feet, throwing them aside only to land on top of the nightside lamp. She shivered, and he lifted her and tucked her onto his lap.

“Under the covers. You’re cold,” he said in an overprotective tone.

Kinley jumped to sounds of horns honking outside, covering her breasts.

Hawke cussed under his breath. “Dammit, their timing is yet again not ideal.” He flipped over on his back, let out a deep sigh, and said in his deep, gravelly voice, “Any second now, they will barrel through the front door and, if I’m correct, seek and find. Sorry,” he said with an exasperated growl. He pulled her in close and kissed the top of her head. “If we were in a different situation, I wouldn’t leave this bed for a week.”

“I’ll forgive the interruption, since you and Noble Network are doing this for me. I can’t be too selfish, but the thought of being next to you in this bed, or any bed, for a week sounds amazing.”

Hawke handed Kinley her clothes and slipped into his boxer briefs and jeans. Kinley had to steal a glimpse. His derriere was just as fantastical as the rest of him.

“Hate to say this, but I better beat feet and see what’s happening.” He turned back around and flung himself onto the bed and ravaged her mouth. His chest rose and fell with a mixture of ecstasy and anguish. “Dammit.”

“I look forward to an encore. Next time, hopefully, without interruption.”

He positioned his hands as in a prayer. “Can we please meet back here later and begin what we could never quite manage? I beg you.” He attempted a knee.

She raised her hand to halt his actions. “I’ll wait for however long it takes and, trust me, I’ll say a little prayer too.” She gave him a quick peck on the cheek and swatted his backside. “The sooner you exit, the earlier you’re done and back in my arms.” She gave him another whack on the rear. “Go on, soldier.”

He stood at attention and saluted. “Yes, ma’am.”

“I’ll be down in a minute. I think I need a cold shower.” She let out an exasperated breath and covered her head with the pillow.