Brianna's Sinful Cowboys [Casanova Cowboys 4] (Siren Publishing Ménage Amour) Read online

  “Ah, good ol’ Jax. You haven’t changed a bit, have you?” Landon smirked against the rim of his glass. Jackson tapped the toe of his boot in time to the music, enjoying the prospect of an added adventure. “You know, there ain’t nothin’ wrong with bringin’ another to your bed. There’s somethin’ to be said about three between the sheets.”

  “Funny you should say that.”

  I’m thinkin’ the same thing.

  Chapter Eight

  The day spun into night, dancers crowding around, but it didn’t stop her partner, whose face she couldn’t make out, from dipping his hand under her skirt. They moved in slow synchrony, his leg wedged between hers, determined fingers moving along her satin panties. She rested her head against his shoulder and closed her eyes, absorbing the feel of his arms and his body. His touch burned against her pussy, slow, gentle strokes that pulled her along each gentle wave of pleasure, waiting for that one single wave…

  Her dream faded as she roused, but the pleasure continued to grow from the simmering warmth spreading along her seam.

  She didn’t open her eyes, didn’t want to leave the hazy world of untainted pleasure. The tongue licking at her pussy continued with long, slow strokes, tracing her labia and plunging inside her body. She drew her knees up, opening herself to the oral stimulation. No hands touched her. No sounds filled her ears aside from her soft moans. She reached up and grabbed hold of her pillow with tight fists. Her back arched, that tongue lapping against her inner muscles, drinking up her juice, driving her closer to that cresting wave.

  The burning ache churned low in her womb, waiting for a single driving force to explode throughout her body. The mouth left her skimming the edges of orgasm, breathing heavily, and writhing against the sheets. The mattress sank on either side of her chest and a moment later, hot hardness filled her pussy in one long slide.

  Brianna grappled for the headboard and cried out, her voice raspy with sleep. The stirring burn seeped into her blood, snaking along her veins. So close, baby. So close.

  “Mmm,” she moaned. “Ohhh.”

  The cock slid against her clit and sliced through the last tenuous barriers, unleashing the swell of fiery heat. She gasped, riding the gentle waves of orgasm, delighting in the whitewash of pleasure that drew her out of the slumbering haze into the arms of a brand new day.

  A quiet, rumbling groan embraced her as she hovered at the crest of her orgasm. She clenched her pussy around the throbbing cock, jet after jet of cum filling her.

  Her body was slow to recover, and she reveled in every residual contraction. At last, she peeled back her eyelids and turned her head down to meet Jackson’s dark gaze and sensual smile. She managed an unsteady grin, pressing the palm of her hand to his cheek. The coarse hairs of his goatee tickled her flesh.

  “Mornin’, my lovely Brianna,” he greeted in a deep husk. “You’re a gorgeous sight.”

  “Mmm. Sure you had somethin’ to do with that.”

  Jackson leaned up and pressed a chaste kiss to her lips. He pulled his spent cock from her and dropped onto the mattress, tugging Brianna against him.

  “Love your wake-me-up surprise sex,” Brianna murmured, her eyelids still drawn partially shut. She scraped her nails through the light sprinkle of short, dark hairs between his pecs.

  “You and me both, baby. I love how tender and sensitive your body becomes when you’re wakin’ up.” Jackson combed her hair away from her face. “What better way to wake up in the mornin’?”

  “Don’t think there’s a better way.” A dreamy memory of Rylan teaching her line dancing Friday night crept into her mind. She had enjoyed his company, his touch, his nearness all a little too much. Those times they looked at each other for longer than a moment left her on the brink of craving just a little taste of what the man could offer. The fantasies were squashed by her conscience, but they refused to die away.

  “Aw, honey. You know I can always figure out somethin’ to up the stakes.”

  “That sinful mind of yours goin’ again, ain’t it?” Brianna let out a breathy laugh and tipped her head enough to catch his gaze. The small quirk of his lips and the shadowed look in his eyes was all too familiar to her. She pushed up to her elbow and looked down at him. “You are thinkin’ somethin’.”

  Jackson traced the lacy neckline on her satin slip. “Have you been thinkin’ somethin’ is the real question. Somethin’, say, with a particular friend of mine?”

  Brianna gaped at him, her face burning. “Jax!”

  “Baby, do I look mad or jealous?” He shook his head. “I’ve been considerin’ what we could add to our relationship.”

  “What are you gettin’ at?”

  Jackson reached up and kissed her. “How about this. I let your imagination stir in that for a little while, hmm? I’ll disclose more later on when we arrive at our getaway destination.”

  Brianna narrowed her gaze on him. She didn’t dare mention Rylan, especially not knowing where Jackson was heading with his insinuation. “Getaway destination? I need to work today.”

  “It’s work related.” He winked and gave her ass a playful squeeze. She laughed and stumbled to her feet. Jackson climbed out of bed beside her, stretching his arms over his head. She drank in the solid form of his naked body, every fine-chiseled and corded muscle. “Let’s jump in the shower, you and me, and we’ll go over to the lodge at the ranch to do some research.”

  * * * *

  “G’mornin’ Colette,” Jackson greeted, leading Brianna through the double glass doors into a spacious sitting room. Brianna soaked in the festively decorated lodge, the towering Christmas tree in the corner by the oversized stone fireplace. Logs crackled and popped in the hearth, the healthy orange flames radiating warmth throughout the room. Floor-to-ceiling windows lined the back wall of the room, opening up to a breathtaking view of snow-capped blue mountains and thick patches of spruce trees dusted with white.

  Brianna stepped over to the closest window and stared out into the distance. She had never seen a view so unspoiled and beautiful. Colton’s property must’ve stretched miles along these snow-draped hills and valleys with a picture perfect mountainous backdrop.

  “Brianna, I want you to meet Colette Ryder, Colton’s mother,” Jackson said. She turned away from the window, shook off the trance and stepped alongside Jackson. A pretty woman wiped her hands on a dish towel before holding her hand out for Brianna.

  “Pleasure to meet you, dear. Jackson was tellin’ me you’re new to the area?” Colette asked. Her lightly painted lips stretched in a smile. Her gray-green eyes sparkled, reminding her of Miss Bess’s unending warmth.

  “This is my first time to Ryder, yes. Actually, we’re here—”

  “To rent a cabin for a night,” Jackson cut in, pulling Brianna into his chest. Her forehead creased and she looked up at Jackson. Colette’s brows lifted. Jackson laughed and shrugged. “Want to show the lady what she’s been missin’ not experiencin’ nature for what it’s worth. Do you have any available?”

  “I have two open. One is reserved come tomorrow.” Colette motioned to the view out the line of windows. “It’s a small, single bedroom cabin about three miles down. I’ll have Tim send a couple boys to plow the pathway. You’ll need four-wheel drive to get down the slope.”

  Jackson nudged her toward the double doors leading to the back balcony. “Grab a view, sweetheart. I’ll be right out.”

  “Would you like any coffee, dear? I have a fresh pot on the burner,” Colette offered. Brianna lifted her hand and shook her head.

  “Thank you, but I’m fine.” She wanted to get Jackson alone to pick his brain. What did he expect to get out of renting a cabin for a night? She was losing time quicker than she could keep track. Christmas Eve would be here before she knew it. If she didn’t lock down this deal, if she couldn’t convince Colton Ryder to sell off a piece of property—any small fraction of these miles of majesty—if she lost her chance for this promotion…

  She stepped out of the
cozy lodge and onto the porch. Calm down, girl.

  The icy-cold temperature did wonders to clear the turbulent thoughts spinning in her head. She stepped up to the wooden railing, closed her eyes, and inhaled a lungful of the crisp, clean air. A chill coated the insides of her lungs, but she found it welcoming, far from the stuffiness that had been plaguing her with her mother’s banters, Jackson’s strange behavior, and the misplaced attraction she held for the town’s sheriff. Losing two additional days of work because her belly was sore after her night of dancing Friday succeeded in edging her closer to the brink of an anxiety attack.

  The harder she tried to focus, the more distracted she became. Yesterday, she allowed Miss Bess to bring her into the town and show her the local stores. Saturday, although a good portion was spent resting in bed, Jackson took her for a drive around the town, pointing out spots and recalling childhood memories that engaged her and left her yearning to have experienced running through corn stalks and skinny-dipping in the swimming hole.

  She was interested in learning more about Colton, especially while the spotlight still hovered over him in wake of a competitor’s murder. That had been what Gregory dubbed the “open door” for a deal. Somehow, her boss had access to talk that the victim’s family was looking to press civil charges against the reigning world champion rodeo star. She hadn’t heard more on that topic, and didn’t know how much validity it held, but if it happened, the man would need a hefty lump sum to settle without tarnishing his name further.

  That was a huge assumption she was banking on for this deal.

  And getting past the brick wall, also known as Rylan.

  “Would it be presumptuous of me to assume you’re here for the view, Miss Cabot?”

  Brianna gasped and spun around, the heel of her boot slipping along the slippery wood. She grabbed the railing and steadied herself out before pinning Rylan with a peeved glare.

  Speakin’ of the devil himself.

  “Could’ve warned me you were sneakin’ up on me like that,” Brianna scolded. Rylan hooked his gloved thumbs on his coat pockets and tipped his chin up, looking down his nose at her. His aggressive stance stoked her ire. “What?”

  “By no means was I silent comin’ up the stairs.”

  “I didn’t hear a step.”

  “Captivated by the scene? Oh, wait. Your eyes were closed. Must’ve been the air. Most guests who come this time of year love the smell of snow, pine, and untouched nature. There’s definitely somethin’ addictive about it.”

  “Are you mockin’ me?” Brianna asked, her words sharp with accusation. Rylan folded his arms over his chest and narrowed his eyes. She shuffled her way to him and fisted her hands by her sides. “You sure changed over a few days.”

  “I taught you a few line dances at a bar then. I’m discussin’ your grand scheme to destroy land that has belonged to my family for generations now.”

  “I would’ve never come here if I didn’t have a reason to come here. My boss wants that property, and I intend to convince Colton Ryder to sell it,” Brianna snapped. She instantly regretted her tone when Rylan closed down. His eyes cooled, his strong jaw locked, and his piercing gaze left ice in her veins.

  “I wish you luck in your endeavor, Miss Cabot, but I’ll tell you now you’re wastin’ your time. Colt will not sell a fraction of this land.”

  Brianna stepped up to Rylan, her coat brushing his. She fought the churning weakness, the sudden heat that flooded her body, the moisture that slickened her panties.

  “You’re quick to underestimate my company’s persuasive tactics. We have funds and means to make this deal worth while even to the most stubborn client. Don’t be so sure Colton Ryder won’t sell, and I’ll be there when he makes that decision.”

  Rylan grabbed her biceps and tugged her to the deck’s edge. He turned her away from the building and held her shoulders in a firm grip.

  “Look, Miss Cabot. Can you see your boss’s dream resort sittin’ anywhere on this property?”

  She stared out at the majestic snowscape, body stiff. The tall spruce trees that dotted the never-ending expanse of property created a breathtaking picturesque forefront to the sloping mountains in the distance. She spotted the closest of the vacation cabins and a large cross-shaped structure alongside an oval-shaped building far off to the right. There wasn’t much to see, resort wise, this close to the main lodge, but she could instantly see what Gregory’s draw was to this place. A sense of peace and serenity. A tease of adventure and a douse of relaxation. The clean, crisp air. The sky was the bluest of blues. This land was untouched by skyscrapers, factories, and high-class resorts.

  “Tell me, ma’am.”

  “I see a lot of potential for a resort.” The lie slipped out between her stiff lips.

  “Then,” he groused, his voice deep and gravelly, coming against her ear on a wave of hot breath that shook her to the core, “you’re sorely misguided in your description of natural and rustic. And for that, I pity your naivety.”

  Rylan’s hands left her shoulders, and he jogged down the stairs. Brianna broke free of the paralyzing warmth he injected inside her soul, shot a glance over her shoulder, and followed in Rylan’s footsteps. That warmth and arousal he always procured melted into frustration as she hurried along the icy pathway, trying to catch up with his determined long-stride steps.

  “Have you considered what a resort could bring to this town? Your stores will flourish. What Colton keeps of Ryder Ranch will become a hot spot destination. I’m not askin’ for him to give up his stables or his cabins. I’m goin’ to ask for a back lot that doesn’t—”

  Rylan spun around so fast, his eyes blazing amber-brown, she stumbled to stop her pursuit. Her damn boots slipped and she shrieked, arms flailing as she fought to maintain balance. Rylan lunged forward, catching her around the waist as she fell, twisting her sideways. She hit the ground, his arm breaking the impact of her fall, his hand cradling her head. She squeezed her eyes shut, riding the subtle waves of weakness that came with her short gasps. His hard breaths splayed against the top of her head, his chest rising and falling in rapid succession.

  “Are you okay?” Rylan asked.

  Brianna nodded against his chest, her fingers clutching his wool-lined leather coat. She could stay here, surrounded by ebbing heat, filled with the subtle spice and crisp scent she placed with Rylan. Only when he started to pull his arm from under her did she brace her hand on the cold concrete and press up to her hands and knees. Rylan held out a hand for her as he climbed to his feet, brushing snow from his uniform pants. He hoisted her up, that brief moment of concern shuttered behind the cold, stubborn sheriff.

  “I’d suggest you learn the proper attire if you plan on stayin’ around here, Miss Cabot.” He pulled his hand back, his eyes dropping to her boots. “We’re about stayin’ warm and sensible, not puttin’ on a fashion show.”

  “I’m in work attire. I’m workin’ here.” Brianna forewent straightening out her skirt and jabbed him in the shoulder. His hand whipped up, his gloved fingers ringing her wrist. “Don’t criticize me.”

  “Assault on an officer, ma’am. I’d be careful.”

  “You pullin’ a power trip on me now? Go ahead,” Brianna challenged, her anger rising to a dangerous level. She yanked her arm. When he didn’t let her go, she brought her other hand up to theirs and made a fist. His expression was as cold as the snow soaking through her stockings, as distant and hard as the mountains, but something alive and electric skated between them. She scowled. “Cuff me. Put your conscience at ease for havin’ saved me, now that you know what my business is in Ryder.”

  Rylan’s jaw tightened. He released her wrist, an unreadable emotion cutting across his eyes. The tension in the air suddenly split open, dispersing outward, and Brianna wanted nothing more than to take those words back.

  “Pretty low shot comin’ from a socialite,” Rylan said, his voice carefully tempered. He brushed past her, leaving a heavy puddle of regret to pool in her gut.
She turned to him, pinching her forehead.

  “Rylan, listen. I didn’t—”

  He threw up a hand, silencing her without a glance. Her shoulders slumped on a heavy sigh.

  “Where’s he goin’?” Jackson asked, coming up beside her. He tipped her chin and frowned. “You okay?”

  “I think I’m makin’ a bad enemy,” Brianna muttered. Jackson lifted his head as Rylan climbed behind the wheel of his cruiser, slammed the door shut, revved the engine, and peeled out of the snow-coated side lot. She groaned, jamming her fists deep into the pockets of her coat and stamped her foot. “I don’t get him, Jax. I know you’re friends and all, but he has a wretched attitude. The man doesn’t know if he wants to be nice to me one day or hate me the next.”

  “He’s holdin’ back, Bree.”

  Brianna’s brow furrowed. “Holdin’ back?” She smirked. “Oh, no. He ain’t holdin’ back. He’s pretty forthcomin’ with his thoughts.”

  “Honey, why don’t I bring you back inside? Let me speak with Ry, okay?” Jackson gathered her against his chest and guided her back to the lodge. “He’s got some, uh, issues he needs to work out.”

  Brianna paused at the stairs and turned full-body to Jackson. “What’s goin’ on, Jackson? You’ve been actin’ out-of-sorts since Friday. Now I have to deal with your out-of-sorts friend. I’ve had enough out-of-sorts to last me a lifetime.”

  “You don’t worry about a thing, beautiful.” He kissed her and nudged her closer to the stairs. “Before you get cold. Colette’s got some hot chocolate for you since you turned down her offer of coffee.”

  Chapter Nine

  Jackson slowed his truck alongside Rylan’s cruiser and cut the engine. The snow-covered hills of the cemetery created an eerie landscape dotted with marble headstones and an occasional monumental angel. The ancient trees with their bare branches swayed in the gentle breeze. A chilling silence met him as he climbed from his cab. Here lay death, the eternal resting place of lost hopes, dreams, and fading memories.