flickers of flaming grass and twigs scattered and spread the fire. As soon as they had one fire contained, another would flare up and they'd have to start all over again.
The townspeople of Stone Creek had rallied and set up a checkpoint where cold drinks and food were served to the weary firefighters. Jim had come in several times and once or twice, he'd seen and talked to Kristy. Her smile kept him going as he plunged back into the fiery fray.
A week later, the fire finally burned itself out. Covered in sweat and soot, Jim desperately needed to go home and bathe and sleep, but all he could think about was seeing Kristy. Holding her, kissing her. He'd had close brushes with death before, but somehow this time was different. He'd found a woman he cared about and he wanted to feel alive again holding her in his arms. He wanted to make love to her. He wanted to make her his .
Jim stood on Kristy's front porch and knocked on the door. He hadn't bothered calling. It was Saturday afternoon and she should be home. He hoped like hell she was home.
The door opened. With a little squeal of joy, Kristy pushed opened the screen and flung herself into his arms. "Oh, Jim! Thank God you're safe." She sobbed and laughed and pulled him down for a hungry kiss.
Jim thought no man could have wished for a better greeting. He tasted her fully and relished the loving embrace. When they came up for air, he smiled. "Look at you. Your clothes are covered with soot. They'll never be the same."
Kristy smiled back, a radiant glow lighting her face. "Who cares? As long as you're safe and well. I've been so worried. Is the fire out? Do you have to go back? Come in! Come in!"
She untangled herself from his arms and taking his hand in a firm clasp, led him into the house. "You look so tired. Why don't you go take a bath and I'll fix you something to eat."
Jim swiped a hand through his lank damp hair. "I'll take that bath, but I'm not hungry for food. All I want is you."
Kristy nodded. "Bath first, then bed."
Words every man should be so lucky to hear.
****
Jim bathed in record time. He combed his wet hair back and wrapped a towel around his middle. Dusk had fallen and the house was dark. He made his way down the hall wondering where Kristy was. A partially opened door revealed candlelight flickering in the dimness. The warm smell of cinnamon provided a much-needed relief from the acrid odor of smoke and charred wood he'd breathed all week long.
Soft music played in the background. Looked like Kristy had seduction in mind. Thank you, lord!
Jim opened the door wide and stood on the threshold. He nearly came unglued at the beautiful sight displayed before his eyes. The big bed was made down and Kristy lay in the middle clad in the filmiest gown he'd ever seen. The white gossamer whispered against her womanly curves. The wisps of fabric enhanced the full breasts and rosy nipples. The panties formed a translucent triangle over her dark curls.
Kristy smiled and patted the mattress. "I sure am lonely over here. Why don't you join me?"
"Don't mind if I do." Dropping the towel, Jim walked over to the bed. His body was on fire and only Kristy could douse the flames. But not yet. Not yet. They had the whole night ahead of them.
Kristy's eyes widened as Jim stood naked by her bed. She was no shy virgin, but the sight of a thoroughly aroused male in the prime of life was certainly a sight to behold. His body was spectacular. He was spectacular. All muscle and brawn; lean and mean; not an ounce of fat or flab anywhere.
The man towered over her, his eyes turning feral as he raked her from head to toe. The bed dipped as he lay down beside her. He smelled of soap and musky male. Kristy inhaled deeply, soaking it all in.
Jim gathered her in his arms and took her mouth in a savage kiss. Plunging his tongue into her sweet warmth, he cupped one breast in his callused hand. He kneaded the firm flesh and brushed the pert nipple with his thumb. Kristy gasped in
Maya Banks, Sylvia Day, Karin Tabke