The Originals (Ghosttown Riders #10)

Chapter Twenty-Seven

It had been a while since he’d had a passenger on a long ride. He’d never enjoyed it much. With a rider came great responsibility. It took away from the freedom of the ride. Or maybe he’d never had the right passenger.

Colleen’s arms were wrapped around his stomach with her clasped hands resting on his belt buckle. It made for an intimate ride as opposed to grasping his hips. It was interesting, knowing when he’d seen her ride with Dunn, she hadn’t held on the way she was with Jack. Colleen was a seasoned rider, which made it smooth and steady without having to give pointers on how to take turns.

Jack hadn’t planned on a three-hour ride through the mountains, but he was enjoying his time with her. At one point, he grabbed her thigh for no other reason than being absolutely content in the moment. And with her. Colleen slipped her hand from his waist and placed it on top of his, tucking her fingers between his. They rode like that for a while.

Of all the places they could’ve ended up, their only stop had been at the river in Ghosttown. It was a risk taking her there, knowing they could have run into someone from the club. The river was a hotspot for the brothers and the women. To those who lived in the city or at the beach, it was nothing more than a tiny river hidden by a mass of trees. Nothing special. But for Jack and other locals, it was a mini-sanctuary. Quiet, tranquil, and beautiful. Some of the hardest decisions he’d made were settled at the river.

It was close to sunset, and they’d been at the river for at least twenty minutes. They were the only people there, and he watched from the bank as Colleen walked along the edge of the water. She’d taken her shoes off and dipped in her toes. Initially, she’d suggested they go for a swim. Jack shut down that idea immediately, knowing the water temperature. But Colleen insisted on finding out for herself. In her bare feet, she lasted ten seconds.

Jack propped up against a large rock and pulled out a cigarette. He lit it and took a deep drag, all the while his gaze never left her. She’d been quiet for the last ten minutes. Every once in a while, he’d catch her looking off across the river as if she was deep in thought. She was the most beautiful when she didn’t know anyone was watching.

Colleen turned toward him and started walking up the small hill with a pout. “I can’t believe it’s so cold.”

Jack chuckled, taking another drag from his cigarette. “Told you.”

Colleen smiled. “I had big plans for us.”

That piqued his interest, and he cocked his brow, waiting on her to answer.

Colleen playfully waved her hand. “You probably don’t want to hear it. It involved both of us naked.”

Just the vision he was conjuring up in his mind had his jeans tightening and cock pressing against his zipper. He’d seen Colleen naked before. It was a sight. It had been a while though. She’d changed a lot since she’d first come to the club.

“Skinny dipping?”

Colleen wiggled her brows. “It would’ve been fun.”

“I have no doubt, darlin’.” Jack took another drag and glanced over the river.

“It’s so pretty here,” she whispered.

He’d taken the boys camping here so many times when they were little. Not as much when they got older, and their schedules became more about their friends than spending time with him. It was the natural progression of parenthood. Still, he missed it.

“What are you thinking?” she asked.

Jack snorted. “About how life changes real fast.”

Colleen nodded, humming in agreement. Silence was underrated. It was perfect now with Colleen. Neither of them forcing a conversation and enjoying the quiet and the company.

Minutes passed, and Jack looked over at her. Beautiful.

“What you got going on in that head of yours?”

She smiled and drew in a breath. “Why are you letting me stay with you?”

Jack took another drag from his cigarette, unsure how to answer her question. He had to be careful with his words. Up until now, he’d been able to resist her knowing there was no future. Not because of her. Colleen would have an amazing future. It just wouldn’t be with him. Jack went with the obvious answer.

“You needed help.”

There was a small stretch of silence.

“So, you would’ve helped anybody? Let any of the girls stay at your house?”

Jack glanced down at the ground with a small smile playing on his lips. Colleen was smarter and more intuitive than most. She just never got the credit for it. Jack wouldn’t have let just anyone back at his house. He would’ve helped but in a different form. Jack might’ve dropped them off at the motel, had a brother drive them out of town and to family. But no one would be invited back to his home. Except Colleen.

Jack glanced over at Colleen. She was staring back at him.

Jack shrugged, trying to brush off the comment without answering. But Colleen wasn’t having any of that.

She knocked her shoulder into his. “Don’t go getting shy on me now, Jack.”

He scoffed and furrowed his brow. “Shy?”

He’d never been shy a day in his life.

She threw her head back and laughed. So carefree. Reminiscent of the girl who’d walked into the clubhouse years ago.

“You know what I mean. Why, Jack?”

He stared back at her, unwilling to give the full honest answer. It would reveal too much.

“Helped you ’cause you needed it.”

Her smile faltered, and she nodded, averting her gaze.

“And,” he said, and she slowly peeked through the shield of her hair. “You’re a good girl. Woman. Deserve better than the shit you take.”

“What do I deserve?” she whispered.

He shouldn’t have answered. It gave too much away. But with her staring back at him, Jack couldn’t help himself.

“A man who’s gonna take care of you. Treat you right. Love on you.”

Her gaze softened, and she stepped in front of him, inching closer. Jack spread his legs apart, and she took the invitation, grasping hold of his waist. She was dangerously close.

“Is that what you think I deserve?”

“Yeah.”

Her lips curled in a small smile. “You’re a good man, Jack Reilly.”

Jack scoffed, turning his head and taking a long inhale from his cigarette. Jack was a lot of things, but not many would call him good. He was too wild, had too many outlaw ways. Raising hell and living life on his terms didn’t make for a good man.

“You are, Jack.” Her voice was so sincere and tender. He glanced down with her only inches away. “You lead the club with everyone’s best interests in mind. No one has more dedication or love for the club than you do. You protect the brothers, their old ladies, the town, and even us girls. That’s a lot of responsibility for one person, but you handle it and keep us all safe.” She lowered her voice. “I feel safe with you, Jack.”

“Making me sound like a saint.”

“To a lot of us, you kind of are.”

Jack never took well to compliments, especially coming from a sweet and meaningful woman. It was too deep, too much to take in. And too much to resist.

Jack slid his hand over her arm, wrapping it around her neck. He stared back at her, knowing if he took this to the next level, it would change things. Keeping Colleen at a distance only worked because he didn’t know what he was missing. But if he gave in to temptation, she’d be something he’d have to part with or give up. There was too much at stake.

“Jack,” she whispered.

Fuck it! He gripped her neck and tugged her toward him. The second his lips touched hers, it was like a switch had been turned on. He’d waited too long for this, and she was living up to every expectation. His lips moved over hers, and he hooked his arm around her waist, pulling her closer. Her tongue dipped between his lips with a small moan rumbling in her chest. Her hands spread over his biceps, tightening her grip and pressing her body against Jack’s.

Colleen shifted her hips, rubbing against the outline of his cock in his jeans. Jack dug his fingers into her waist, but instead of pulling her away, he pushed her closer, sliding his hand down to her ass. He deepened the kiss, tasted every inch of her mouth without any thought of stopping.

“Wait for me!”

Jack stilled, hearing the female voice in the distance.

“I don’t want you by the water without me or your father.”

Jack ended the kiss, pulling away slightly. Colleen flickered open her eyes, looking a bit dazed and still lost in the moment. He wasn’t even sure if she’d heard anyone coming.

“Looks like we got company.”

Colleen angled her head, and when he heard the rustling of leaves and patter of feet, she jerked her head to the clearing.

Three small boys raced toward the water but abruptly stopped when their mother shouted. “Stop.”

Jack chuckled, shaking his head. It brought back memories with his own boys. He straightened and rested his hand on Colleen’s back.

“Let’s get outta here.”

“Okay,” she whispered.

“You hungry?”

“Yes.”

I know the perfect place.

*

They could’ve gone any place to get a burger, but the small diner in Ghosttown was his usual go-to spot. If he was spending money, he’d be investing it back into his town. While Jack and the club didn’t want to see further growth in Ghosttown, they were all about sustaining the businesses in place. They had a good thing in their small town, and everyone knew it.

Jack and Colleen had been at the diner for thirty minutes when the bell sounded from the door, and a couple walked in. Just the sight of the man changed Jack’s whole demeanor. While the club tended to keep to themselves, they were mostly respectful to the townspeople. But this guy? Jack had zero tolerance for holier-than-thou assholes, and Arnett Collins fit the bill. Everything is a problem with this motherfucker.

Jack grabbed his napkin, wiped his mouth, and tossed it on his plate. Arnett and his wife were passing their table when he glanced down, glaring at Jack. There was a history. Arnett made it known he wasn’t happy with the club making their home in Ghosttown, even though they’d been there just as long as him.

Jack had always given strict orders to the club that townspeople were off limits. There weren’t many people, a few older folks and a handful of families. For as rough and ruthless as their reputation had been, they didn’t mess with any locals. In a sense, Jack felt a responsibility for them. They weren’t a part of the club, but they were a part of Ghosttown. Most respected the club and were decent. They kept their distance but didn’t welcome trouble. Except this motherfucker.

Arnett took every opportunity to complain, bitch, and rant to anyone who would listen. Most brothers ignored it, but on occasion Jack enjoyed riling him up.

“Everything okay?” Colleen asked.

Jack nodded and watched the couple sit down. Every so often, Arnett would look over, scowling in Jack’s direction.

Once they ordered, Arnett started. Jack knew it was coming and smirked at Colleen as he started complaining about the noise motorcycles made and mentioning an ordinance.

Colleen cupped her mouth, trying to cover her smile and rolling her eyes. Jack merely shook his head. Everyone in the club knew about Arnett and his antics. And it seemed his wife had had enough.

“Arnett, please.” The woman’s voice was hushed.

“I’m just saying, they ride their bikes all over town, making all that racket. Some of us like to enjoy the quiet without those damn bikes ripping up and down Main Street.”

Jack glanced over and watched the woman grab Arnett’s hand, caressing her thumb over his knuckles.

“And all I’m saying is that it’s our anniversary, and I’d like to enjoy it with my husband. How about you take all that energy you have for complaining about the motorcycle club and use it to tell me how wonderful the last fifteen years have been with me as your bride.”

Jack watched Arnett’s complete demeanor change staring at his wife. Jack had to hand it to his wife, she knew how to calm Arnett. It was a gift to be that person for someone.

“Best thing I ever did was marry you.” Arnett said.

His wife smiled and hiked her elbows on the table, leaning closer and wiggling her brows. “Tell me more, sweetheart.”

Jack’s lips twitched. He may despise Arnett, but he had a good woman. Motherfucker probably doesn’t deserve her.

The waitress stopped at the table. “Anything else?”

“Just the check,” Jack said, but when she started walking away, he held up his hand and pointed to Arnett’s table. “And I want theirs too. Add on two desserts.”

The waitress looked over at their table and furrowed her brows. “You want to pay for Arnett’s meal?”

Jack snickered. He was sure this was a first.

“Yeah, I do.”

She raised her brows and sighed. “Okay.”

A few minutes later, two checks were delivered to their table. Jack slid out from the booth, waiting on Colleen. When she stood, she inched closer and lowered her voice.

“This is really sweet of you, Jack.”

No, it ain’t, darlin’.

Jack walked up to the register and paid both bills. He pulled out a twenty and handed it to the waitress for her tip. She widened her eyes.

“Want you to let them know the tip was covered too.”

“I will. And thanks, Jack.”

He could’ve left without them knowing who paid but there was a reason behind Jack’s generosity.

He clasped Colleen’s hand and lead her to the door, but stopped at the edge of Arnett’s table. He glanced up and immediately glared. Oh yeah, fucker, I’m about to piss you off. Jack smiled, glancing over at Arnett’s wife.

“Don’t mean to interrupt, but I overheard you’re celebrating an anniversary?”

Her gaze widened, and she looked at her husband before mustering up a smile aimed at Jack. “Uh, yes. Fifteen years.”

“Congratulations. Definitely something to celebrate. I hope you don’t mind, but I paid your bill. Consider this anniversary meal on me.”

Arnett’s wife straightened in her seat and grinned. “You didn’t have to do that.”

Yeah, darlin’, I do.

“I wanted to.” Jack smiled over at Arnett.

“That’s so kind of you. Thank you,” his wife said, and Jack turned his attention to the woman.

“My pleasure, darlin’.” Jack winked, and she immediately blushed. “You all have a great night.”

Jack walked toward the door. He pushed it open and ushered Colleen through. Then he looked back and found exactly what he’d expected. Arnett’s harsh scowl staring back at him. Jack’s smile widened, and he lifted his hand, drawing up his middle finger.

Fuck you, asshole.

It was childish and immature. And I don’t give a shit. Arnett’s wife would forever remember the nice biker that treated her and her husband to their fifteen-year wedding anniversary dinner. She’d probably mention it time and time again over the years. And every single time, it would grate on Arnett’s last nerve, pissing him off.

Revenge at its finest.

****

They hadn’t gotten back to Jack’s house until after dark. Colleen was tempted to suggest a fire in the yard, but after the long day, she was fighting against a yawn. She’d been able to conceal it a few times, but as they walked into the house, she could no longer resist.

Jack wrapped his arm around her shoulder. “Time to get you in bed.”

Her head jerked, and she widened her eyes before realization set in. Jack didn’t mean together in his bed. He’d be off to his room, and she’d sleep in his son’s. As much as she loved the kiss they’d shared and thought of it for the rest of the day, nothing would come from it. It was probably just a slip in his control. And what a slip it was . She’d spent years imagining what kind of kisser he was, and the reality did not disappoint.

He dropped his hand to her back, guiding her upstairs. She glanced over at his bedroom door as she passed. It was a little deflating. But she straightened her shoulders and turned to face him.

“Today was fun. Can’t remember the last time I smiled or laughed that much.” She glanced up through her lashes. “Thanks, Jack.”

He nodded but didn’t say a word. She took a step towards Caden’s room, and she felt his hand wrap over her wrist. Before she even knew what was happening, Jack spun her around, pressed her back against the wall, and kissed her. It hadn’t been like at the river. This was feral and urgent, as if he had let go of all his control. His hands gripped her ass and he lifted her. Colleen wrapped her legs around his waist, spearing her tongue between his lips and savoring his warm breath.

Colleen couldn’t see where he was taking her, but all directions pointed to his room. Her heart raced, threatening to beat out of her chest. She was feeling too much anticipation. All she’d wanted was him. For so long. She turned her head, gasping for a breath, and her eyes were trained on his unmade bed. It was exactly where he was leading her.

Her back hit the mattress, and his body came over hers, grinding between her legs. They had to get rid of their clothes. Jack must’ve had the same idea. He pushed up from the bed and reached over one shoulder, pulling his shirt off. Colleen was in a bit of a trance taking in his chest. She’d seen it before but never on display for her eyes only. When he bent over, shucking off his boots, she scrambled to sit up, ripping off her top and wiggling out of her panties and jeans.

She leaned back propped up on her elbows, completely naked and watching Jack. He unsnapped his jeans and stilled, his gaze perusing her body. The muscles in his face tensed, and he squared his jaw. His gaze darkened, and it sent a shrill through her body. He wanted her as much as she wanted him. There was no denying it.

Jack dropped his jeans, and seconds later he was covering her body like a warm comforting blanket. She sought out his mouth, taking him for a deep kiss. He tasted like sugar and mint. He groaned, sliding his cock between her folds. There was no time for foreplay. Colleen was wet and ready to take him. She clutched at his back, digging her nails into his skin, urging him closer. His back tightened, and he leaned across her body, reaching into his nightstand drawer.

Colleen felt the heat rise from her chest to her face when he pulled out a condom. At least one of them was thinking. Colleen hadn’t even thought of protection. She was so lost in her own lust. She wasn’t sure how he did it, but once he ripped open the packaging with his mouth, he dropped down, kissing her, and with only one hand and no visual, sheathed himself.

Colleen dragged her hands over his back and spread her legs wide as he entered her. She shifted her hips and gasped. Jack was bigger than most men. As if sensing her tension, he slowly rocked his hips, allowing her body to adjust to his size. His mouth moved over hers, and he cupped her jaw, stroking her cheek.

Colleen swiveled her hips, wanting more. And he gave it to her. He thrust inside her, and the headboard knocked against the wall. It did nothing to deter him from pounding deeper. She felt him everywhere and clasped onto his back, tearing her mouth away and licking the column of his throat. Her breath shallowed as she felt her body tingle. She’d never been ready to come so quick with any man.

“You feel so good,” he groaned, sliding inside her.

It was enough to put her over the edge, and she moaned his name and gasped for a breath as she came. Jack was right behind her, and seconds later his harsh grunt echoed in her ears as his face dropped to her neck, and his heavy breath fanned over her breasts.

Colleen wasn’t sure how long they lay there in silence. Her eyes were closed with Jack draped over her. Her breath evened out, and when she felt his weight lift, she flicked open her eyes. Jack stood and walked across the room. He was beautiful. It wasn’t the usual term used for a man, especially one as strong and rugged as Jack Reilly. But she couldn’t think of another word to describe his perfection.

She looked away when he took off the condom near the trash can in the corner. As she glanced around the room, she was at odds with what to do next. It was probably best to go back to her room. She sat up and leaned over, retrieving her clothes from the floor.

“What are you doing?”

She glanced up, and Jack was stalking back to the bed.

“I was going to go…” She never got the chance to finish. Jack grabbed her clothes from her hand and tossed them back on the floor.

The corner of his mouth hiked, and he lifted his chin, gesturing toward the top of the bed. Colleen slowly crawled over to the pillows just as Jack got in bed. He wants me to stay in his bed? Jack lifted the covers over the both of them and leaned across her body, forcing her to lie down. He turned off the lamp on her side, and as he moved to his side, he kissed her.

Jack settled down on to the mattress and reached over, tucking her against his chest. It was unexpected, but Colleen gave in to it, enjoying being cuddled up next to him. It was the perfect ending to the perfect day. It couldn’t have ended any better. Or so she thought, until she heard Jack mutter.

“I could get used to this.”

Me too, Jack.