Desire's Fury (Viking's Fury Book 2) by Violetta Rand Read Free Book Online Page B

“By Odin,” he growled. “If this is considered suffering, lady, let the sickness run its course.”
    For a brief moment, Eva’s heart soared. She’d finally met her match. Found a man who not only awakened her desire, but challenged her—made her think carefully about what she said and did. Unfortunately, they were enemies. Sami and Norse. As different as night and day. A bloodthirsty Viking could never understand the ways of a noaidi . Sworn to avoid violence unless her life was in absolute jeopardy, a man like Roald struck first and asked questions later.
    “You are shaking, Jarl Roald,” she said. “And much too distracted to think clearly.”
    “Are you so naïve, sweet Eva? My body’s reaction to you is not caused by a mysterious illness. As a healer, surely you understand the irresistible draw between a man and woman. The right man and woman.”
    “I do.”
    “Good,” he said appreciatively. “I am not dealing with a feebleminded virgin, then. I prefer an experienced woman, one who knows what she wants.” He locked her against his chest, nuzzling into her hair. “The joy of a kiss should be shared. Often.” He nipped her collarbone.
    One kiss should be innocent enough. A gift to herself for braving this new world, a special memory she’d treasure forever. She lifted her head, staring up at him, wondering if his lips would be soft and warm. Would he use his tongue the way Reuben, the only boy she’d ever kissed, did? Or would he show her something new and make her forget who she was?
    “Why are you looking at me like that?” he asked.
    “Because I am ready, Jarl Roald. I want you to kiss me. Just once…”
    The moment their lips met, Eva knew there was nothing innocent about it. The meticulously learned emotional control that she’d been taught by her mother, the ability to stay impartial and unattached was meant to protect her and her patients, simply unraveled. Roald’s body jerked violently as he took possession of her mouth, his tongue dancing across hers.
    Standing on her toes, she locked her arms around his neck, demanding more. This moment must not end yet. His scent, taste, the feel of his muscular body against hers, even the way he looked with his eyes pressed shut made her insatiable, as if she hadn’t eaten a morsel in days. She sucked his tongue deeper into her mouth and boldly explored the expanse of his broad back and shoulders. She imagined the rocky outcrops of the mountains where she lived when she thought about Roald. That’s what he felt like in her hands. Forged from fire and stone—hard and unforgiving.
    “Open the goddamned door!” Konal pounded on the entryway.
    Roald’s shoulders went rigid as he withdrew from her, resting his forehead against hers. “I am sorry for the disruption, Eva.” He opened his blue eyes. “But I don’t regret our kiss.”
    Speechless, she nodded in agreement, secretly grateful for the interruption. For if the Viking had held her a moment longer, she would have undressed. Even now her breasts ached, her nipples hard and uncomfortable scraping against the cloth of her tunic.
    She stepped back from him, struck by the stormy look on his face.
    “Roald,” Konal called. “If you don’t…”
    Roald stomped to the door and opened it. “Where is Troel?”
    “See for yourself.” Konal entered the bedchamber. “On the bloody ground where I left him.”

Chapter Eleven
    S ilence surrounded Roald as he led the procession of warriors down the footpath which ended at the river. His father’s favorite vessel, now his funeral pyre, drifted on the current. Colorful shields and wildflower wreaths decorated the mast. Many had gathered—freemen and thralls alike. Though Jarl Brandr the Restless was known for his heavy hand when it came to ruling his people, he treated everyone equally. And in the eyes of his captains, that made their master an honorable man.
    Roald halted at the edge of the pier where his brothers and sister waited. Runa’s