She moaned as she leaned against his chest and their lips connected. To be fully inside her while he kissed those pink lips was pure heaven. He kept a slow, rhythmic pace, concentrating on the kiss as much as the movement.
“Thrust your tongue in my mouth. I think I’m about to come,” Shey begged.
Brad plundered her mouth mercilessly, turned on in the extreme when he felt her body stiffen as her pussy tightened and released around his cock.
“Oh hell, woman!” he groaned, clutching her waist as he increased the pace and gave in to his mounting climax that demanded release. His orgasm was hard and long, burst after burst filling Shey up.
When his climax finally subsided, he released his hold on her and lay back against the pillow, breathing rapidly.
Shey sighed in contentment. “We’re good together.”
“More than you know, darlin’, more than you know…” He ran his fingers through her long red hair, mesmerized by her.
Shey propped her chin on his chest and grinned. “I didn’t even notice the cast on your leg.”
His chuckle was low when he answered, “Neither did I.” He kissed her again before gently rolling her down onto the bed. They stayed connected, her legs wrapped around his as they lay together enjoying the aftereffects of their intense coupling.
The redhead’s eyes were closed, her cheeks flushed, and she had a slight smile on her lips.
Brad stared at Shey for a long time, totally captivated by her.
He’d been searching for the right woman for how many years? He actually thought he’d found her when he fell in love with Amy—he was wrong and never wanted to feel that kind of pain again.
And yet, he still longed for the depth of love his mother and father shared. As a boy he’d been struck by how much they doted on each other, even though they had been married for years and had a house full of snot-nosed kids.
Brad had since moved on from those simple beginnings in that old Greeley farmhouse, but his parents’ devotion to each other had left a profound imprint. In a world of continual change, they were a constant.
As he looked down at her, Shey opened her blue eyes and graced him with a stunning smile. “I love you,” she declared, reaching up to caress his jaw, her eyes sparkling with tenderness and affection.
He’d waited for this moment all of his life—to have his love fully returned.
Oh hell, I would do anything for this woman.
Why did the idea of that both excite and terrify him?
Brad needed to sit down with Thane and have a deep conversation about it. He glanced over at a picture on his dresser. It was a snapshot of the two of them taken at the beach during their college days. He was flexing his pecs while Thane smirked at the camera. It used to make him smile whenever he looked at it, now it only brought pain.
Brie is not the only one who needs you, buddy…
Breathe with Me:
Brie’s Submission #12
By
Red Phoenix
Breathe with Me: Brie’s Submission
Copyright © 2016 by Red Phoenix
This eBook is licensed for your personal enjoyment only.
All rights reserved. Except as permitted under the U.S. Copyright Act of 1976, no part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, or stored in a database or retrieval system, without the prior written permission of the author.
[email protected] Edited by Jennifer Blackwell, Proofed by Becki Wyer & Marilyn Cooper
Cover by Shanoff Formats
Formatted by BB eBooks
Phoenix symbol by Nicole Delfs
Adult Reading Material (18+)
Dedication
MrRed, thank you for binding me
Heart, body and soul.
I LOVE the call of the jute!
Tono, my muse, thank you for your guidance through this life.
To the many fans of the gentle Kinbaku Master,
Thank you for your enthusiastic support!
“Breathe with me”
is our shared mantra and joy.
Description
When life gets too rough, breathe with me…
Tono Nosaka, the Kinbaku rope master, has known heartache and loss—never defeat. He is determined to claim his soulmate.
Miss Autumn is courageous and talented, but she hides a personal secret that binds her heart. Just when the walls start to come down, Tono has a dream about Brie so shocking he would make any sacrifice to ensure it never comes true.
Love that strong has extraordinary power.
Patience
Tono Nosaka was deeply interested in how the week in Italy would play out after Brie’s wedding. Not only did he want to get to know Autumn better while they explored the country together, but he desired to pursue her romantically with Italy as their backdrop.
Her reluctance to be seen in public outside the safety of her friends had almost cost them the trip overseas. It had taken everything in Autumn not to decline when Sir Davis asked her to be a part of Brie’s wedding line. If it hadn’t been for Lea’s presence as the maid of honor, as well as Autumn’s own longing to be part of Brie’s special day, she would have turned down Sir Davis’s request.
Tono had thought it was a real breakthrough when she’d made that commitment, but he’d noticed how nervous she’d been standing in the wedding line with her facial scars fully exposed. Once the reception was under way, she’d started to gravitate toward the shadows, touching her face subconsciously from time to time.
He walked up to Autumn with a glass of wine and stood beside her as she sipped it. “Would you like to dance?”
She shook her head vigorously. “Oh no, you’re never getting me out on the dance floor.”
“Why not?” he asked with a smirk.
“I may be able to skate with some grace, but I’m hopeless as a dancer with this prosthetic.” She banged her hand against it dismissively.
“I’m certain the grace you display on the ice will not be lost in my arms.”
She shook her head and grinned. “So not going to happen.”
Tono decided not to push her. That she hadn’t covered her face as soon as the ceremony ended had truly impressed him. She seemed to be slowly growing in confidence, and every step forward was a small triumph that needed to be appreciated.
Autumn watched the couples on the dance floor for a moment and said in a wistful voice, “You know why dogs don’t make good dancers? Because they have two left feet.” She smiled at him, her eyes sparkling with amusement.
He smiled, but responded by saying, “You look breathtaking tonight.”
Autumn chortled. “Stop!”
“It’s not polite to turn away a sincere compliment,” Tono chided her lightly.
She stared at him for a moment. “I’m sorry, Ren. I just…” Shrugging, she said, “I can’t compare to the beauty of Italian women.”
He leaned in closer to gaze into her eyes. “You do, and you surpass them.”
Autumn laughed as she took a sip of her wine.
Tono noticed Sir Davis motioning to him. He excused himself from her and made his way over.
Sir Davis pulled him aside. “Ren, I know this is a lot to ask, but I’ve grown tired of the festivities and would prefer to start early celebrations with my wife.”
Tono nodded in understanding.
“I’ve already talked to Brad and he agreed, but I wanted to ask if you mind giving up your dance with Brie?”
“Not at all, Sir Davis. It has been a long day, and I am sure you would like time alone with her.”
Sir Davis put his hand on Tono’s shoulder. “You are a good friend, Ren Nosaka.”
“As are you.”
The groom pointed across the courtyard. “I’ll need you to tell her to go to that entrance. Warn her that the steps are steep. I don’t need my new bride breaking a leg on the way down.”
Tono chuckled. “Yes, that would take pleasu
re and pain to a whole new level.”
Sir Davis laughed out loud. “Yes, it would.” He was about to walk away when he stopped and turned. Without any explanation, he embraced Tono in a heartfelt hug, slapping him on the back several times before letting go.
Tono watched him walk away and thought, Love her well…
He spotted Brie and went over to speak to Master Anderson before joining her. “Mrs. Davis.”
“Yes, Tono?”
“Master Anderson regrets that he cannot dance with you tonight, but he asked me to give you this.” Tono gave her the small envelope.
Brie took it and smiled, looking around for Master Anderson. When she spied him, she blew Master Anderson a kiss and waved before turning her attention back to Tono.
Her honey-colored eyes drew him in, just as they always had.
“Although the evening is still young, Sir Davis asked me to retrieve you.”
“Retrieve me?” she said, giggling.
“Your husband wishes to speak with you—privately.”
Brie glanced around, searching for Sir Davis in the crowds. “Where is he?”
“You’ll find him down the spiral staircase through there,” Tono told her, pointing to an entrance. “I should warn you that the stairs are steep.”
He then gave Brie his gift. “I am forsaking my dance so that you may go to him sooner.”
Her eyes softened as she gazed into his. “Tono, I would love it if you would dance with Autumn in my stead.”
“She is not comfortable on the dance floor.”
“Tell her it was my solemn request.”
Tono bowed his head slightly and smiled, knowing it was the only thing that might persuade Autumn to consent. “I will tell her.”
He turned to leave, but Brie called out his name. “Tono.”
“Yes?”
Brie threw her arms around him, pressing her cheek against his chest to listen to his heartbeat. Tono closed his eyes—savoring the moment.
Brie sighed as she pulled away, confessing, “I just needed to hear that.”
He looked at her, feeling both love and loss. He kissed her on the forehead and whispered, “May the years ahead be everything you wish for, toriko.”
Tono turned away first, letting her go with a full heart.
He walked back to Autumn, who had watched the unusual exchange. “What just happened?”
“I’ve given my dance away so that the bride and groom can retire for the evening.”
“You did?”
“Yes, but Brie asked that you dance with me in her stead.”
Autumn shook her head, looking in the direction Brie had disappeared and mumbled, “That little minx.”
Tono held his hand out to her with a confident smile. “Will you dance with me, Miss Autumn?”
She blushed deeply but took his hand without further protest, willingly following him onto the dance floor.
He placed his hand on the small of her back and smiled. “Follow my lead.”
Once Autumn made a commitment, she gave it all she had. It was something Tono admired about her. At first Autumn was stiff and unsure as she stared down at her artificial leg, trying to move in time with the music.
He stopped and commanded gently, “Look at me.”
Autumn glanced up and smiled shyly. Pressing his hand more firmly against her back, he started out slowly, their movements simple but in time with the music.
Her smile widened as she stared into his eyes, and she momentarily forgot where she was. Autumn instinctually moved in sync with him as they made their way around the dance floor.
He leaned down and whispered, “My graceful dancer.”
She blushed, fluttering her eyes at him. “Oh Ren…”
Tono stood beside Autumn and watched Sir Davis leave with Brie on their honeymoon the next day. He did not feel the pain of regret, only a desire to move on.
He smiled down at Autumn, proud to have this extraordinary woman by his side. He couldn’t wait to explore the wonders of Italy with her.
As he was finishing packing, he looked up and was disheartened to see that she had covered up her face with a veil. “What are you doing, Autumn?”
“I can’t face a bunch of strangers with these scars, especially here in Italy where everyone is naturally beautiful.”
“But you handled it last night.”
“That was different, and believe me it wasn’t easy. I did it for Brie, but I made Mr. Davis promise that the pictures would be doctored up so my scars don’t ruin their wedding photos.”
Tono looked at her in concern. “There was no need for that. You looked stunning last night.”
“Ren, I know you can’t appreciate where I’m coming from, but I can’t tell you how much I hate the questioning stares I get when strangers see my artificial leg. Even worse are the quick glances away when people notice the ugly scars on my face. It’s the reason I cover up in public.”
He tugged at the material of her veil. “But I need to see your beautiful face. I don’t want you to cover up.”
She moved away from him. “I’m sorry. I’m not comfortable traveling here any other way.”
Tono had been so certain Autumn was slowly coming around, but it seemed she still had a long way to go. “I will only agree if you promise to remove it whenever we’re alone.”
“Of course, Ren. I feel totally accepted when I’m around you.”
Tono thought to himself, I look forward to the day when my opinion matters more than that of strangers.
They left Tuscany before noon and headed for Rome for two days to visit the Colosseum, the Forum, and the Vatican. After that, they made their way up the coast to see the Leaning Tower of Pisa, making a quick stop in Siena before ending their trip in Florence.
Autumn was especially excited about visiting the city of Siena after seeing pictures of the tall walls surrounding the classic medieval city. The two of them didn’t know until they arrived that their visit coincided with the Palio della Madonna di Provenzano, a famous horserace that took place every year.
When Tono had to park far outside the walled city, and saw the sheer number of people going into it, he knew something was up. It wasn’t until he entered the walls that he understood a celebration was under way.
The narrow streets of the city were crowded with people cheering enthusiastically as a colorful parade went past.
An Englishman standing beside them took a long, hard look at Autumn with her veil, but couldn’t resist spouting off his knowledge as a horse and rider passed. “Each participating contrade of this city marches down the streets in all their finery to show off their horse and jockey.”
The jockey who passed rode bareback and was dressed in bright colors. Tono appreciated the connection and respect he saw between the animal and its rider.
“Each horse has been blessed by a priest in church. The blokes here take this race very seriously,” the man continued.
“That’s so fascinating,” Autumn exclaimed. “I have to admit, I love all the colors and pageantry.”
The Englishman was encouraged by her interest and shared, “There are serious rivalries amongst many of the contrades. Some that are centuries old. It makes for a dangerous and exciting race.”
Autumn stuck out her hand to shake his. “Before I ask you any more questions, let me properly introduce myself. My name is Autumn Day.”
The Englishman laughed.
She grinned. “It’s true. My parents thought Autumn the perfect fit, considering I was born in October.”
“They certainly have a sense of humor,” he stated, winking at Tono. “Mine is not nearly as entertaining. I’m just simple ol’ William Henry.”
“So, William, where does the race take place?” Autumn asked, starting back up with her line of questioning.
He smiled smugly when he told her, “In the center of the city itself, at the Piazza del Campo.”
Autumn grabbed onto Tono’s arm. “Can we go?”
Tono turne
d to the gentleman. “Are tickets required?”
“Only if you want to sit. Anyone can watch the race, but it’s a quick one. Only lasts a little more than a minute.”
“All this for a race that lasts only a minute?” Autumn said in awe.
“Twice a year, actually—July and August. The festival for each lasts four days. Tradition means something here,” the Englishman replied.
“Truly a rare piece of luck we came today,” Tono stated.
“You didn’t come for the race?” he asked in surprise.
Autumn giggled from under her veil. “No, it was a happy accident.”
The Englishman raised his eyebrows. “Lucky indeed.”
Trumpets sounded as another contrade came into view. Tono was struck by the pride on the people’s faces as they walked past, dressed in their fineries that announced their district. One could feel the connection they had toward their community—and the deep sense of self they gained from it.
It moved him. He felt at home in this place…
When the last of the contrades had passed, they followed the crowd as they filtered into the piazza to watch. The center of town had been transformed into a horse track, complete with dirt.
He put his arm around Autumn when the race finally started, impressed by the trust between horse and rider as they careened at breakneck speeds three times around the track. Horses bumped into each other, jockeying for position as the crowd cheered them on.
In a little over a minute the filly with the unicorn as its district symbol surged into first place, barely edging out the brown stallion with a ram as its symbol.
The piazza broke into uproarious applause, the adrenaline of the race still coursing through the entire assembly. Autumn jumped up and down next to Tono, laughing and clapping with delight. If the girl hadn’t been wearing that darn veil, he would have kissed her passionately right then and there.
It didn’t take long for the piazza to clear out of the spectators, but Tono noticed that for the people of Siena the festivities were just beginning.