Southern Romantic-Suspense Boxed Set (Southern Romantic-Suspense Novel Book 0) Read online

  It was almost seven when she was finished.

  She had just enough time to return to the room, throw on her dress, and meet Jordan in the gardens — wherever they were. She gawked at the mirror, barely recognizing her face; it was blushed and glowing from the treatments, but there was something else. She was happy, and she could see the light in her eyes.

  A knock on the door startled her. She looked through the peephole and saw a steward dressed in a tuxedo. “Yes?” she asked, opening the door cautiously, hoping nothing had happened to Jordan.

  “Per your groom’s request, I’m here to escort you to the gardens, Miss.”

  Had he read her mind? He wouldn’t even allow her to get lost in the hotel. Amazing. “Thank you. I’ll be right out.” She inhaled deeply and took one final look at herself before leaving the room for the last time as a single woman.

  Chapter Eleven

  The area, designed to look like a small chapel set in the midst of a summer garden, overflowed with lush greenery and flowering plants.

  Jaynee thought she might have missed a large wedding with family and friends, but she didn’t.

  It was just God, Jordan, and her. The staff provided her with a beautiful bouquet, and the garden smelled of roses and freesia.

  Jaynee looked up as she started her walk toward Jordan. He inhaled deeply, and then his eyes were wide with delight as a brilliant smile spread across his face. He was so extraordinarily handsome in his tuxedo, and amazingly, he wanted her. Forever.

  Jordan marveled as Jaynee advanced the small path while violins and a harp played a soft rendition of Wagner’s Wedding March.

  She took his breath away. Not only was she stunning, but she was his — forever. He’d wanted to give her a large wedding, but at the same time, the thought of making her his wife today exhilarated him.

  He didn’t want to wait months to prepare a wedding. The thought of leaving Florida without her terrified him. What if those thugs came back and hurt her?

  As Jaynee approached, her grandmother’s comments from earlier invaded his thoughts. She’d walked over to talk to him while Jaynee was inside packing. Gram understood why Jaynee didn’t want a big wedding, but she’d assured Jordan that even though Jaynee had felt abandoned by her parents, her remaining family had taken her in as their own.

  Jordan assured her grandmother that he would do what he could to make everything right. Gram had hugged him then, requesting he take care of Jaynee, explaining that no matter how tough she acted, a hurt little girl hid beneath her bravado. He promised a solemn vow that no one would ever hurt Jaynee again.

  When the preacher announced, “You may kiss the bride,” Jordan felt triumphant. He held Jaynee securely in his arms as he kissed her with everything in him, then pulled back to look at her face. He wasn’t surprised to see tears, but was happy they were tears of joy. He was amazed, however, that his eyes too had watered up, just a light glaze giving away his emotions.

  Jordan escorted Jaynee toward the exit as the soft melody settled into the triumphant ending of the wedding march. He walked her to the front of the hotel where a white Hummer limousine waited for them.

  “Aren’t we going back to the room, Jordan?” Jaynee looked puzzled as the chauffeur opened the door.

  “Not yet ... This is my night to spoil you.” He nuzzled his face into her neck as he helped her up into the vehicle. The Hummer headed to a restaurant called Michael Mina Bellagio, supposedly the most romantic restaurant in Vegas, according to his research.

  Once they arrived, they strolled through the botanical gardens as they awaited their table. It was incredibly difficult to keep his eyes, let alone his hands, to himself. All he could think was that this magnificent woman was his. He wanted to proclaim it loudly for all to hear. His joy was so overpowering he was sure Jaynee would think him insane; surely, she could see his elation. He wanted nothing more than to carry her to the room, but he needed this evening to be exceptional. She’d given up everything for him; he needed her to believe in happiness.

  After dinner, he whisked her back to the waiting limo, and they were off to Vegas’ version of the Eiffel Tower. There, they had a wonderful view of the water show at the Bellagio.

  He produced a bottle of champagne from inside his jacket he’d hidden when they got out of the limo. “I wasn’t sure if you drank, but I thought it was appropriate.”

  “I don’t drink much, but I do enjoy champagne. Just don’t let me drink too much; I get frisky.”

  “Oh ...” he mused, wagging his eyebrows, “well then, I guess I just won’t let you out of my sight. Not that I was planning on that anyway, my bride.” He poured them both a glass but set his down after only a few sips. He brushed her hair off her neck then cupped her face with his palm, pulling her lips to his. “I love you, Jaynee. Thank you for marrying me.”

  She leaned her head into his palm and sighed. “I love you too, Jordan. Thank you for asking.”

  Jaynee rested back against Jordan, thankful when he draped his jacket over her shoulders and wrapped his arms around her, as it was getting chilly.

  When the water show ended, he lowered his lips to her ear. “Would you like a gondola ride, or is there something else you want to do?” His honey-sweet accent was smooth and seductive, sending chills down her entire body.

  She tilted her head up to look at him. “We can do that tomorrow, I suppose. I’d like to go to the room ... with my husband.”

  “I thought you’d never ask.” His warm breath caressed her neck. His teeth grazed her lobe as his lips eagerly moved their way down the line of her jaw. He turned her toward him, finding her lips. He pulled back after only a moment. “Let’s go.”

  Back at the Venetian, Jordan led Jaynee back to the room, trailing them around the shops and gardens. Characters dressed in Renaissance-era clothing roamed the streets, occasionally breaking into opera style singing Jaynee wasn’t too fond of, but it was interesting.

  A mime approached, clearly recognizing them as newlyweds. He swayed his hips as if they should dance.

  “Shall we?” The question was rhetorical. Instead of waiting for an answer, Jordan twirled her out once then pulled her back into his arms as he lowered her gracefully into a dip, his strong arms secured around her.

  The mime jumped up and down, clapping his hands noiselessly then proceeded to make a mock display as if tapping on a glass, beckoning them to kiss. Jordan obliged, and a cheer emerged from the surrounding crowd Jaynee hadn’t noticed had gathered. Jordan stepped back and bowed, pulling her with him.

  “Jordan, you’re crazy.” She let out a laugh. “And a ham! Can we go?” she pleaded. Not accustomed to the spotlight, she felt heat spread across her cheeks.

  “If you insist, my lady.” He waved off the crowd and pulled her to his side again.

  Finally, they made their way to the room. Although it shouldn’t have taken her by surprise, the wind rushed out of her when he swung her up into his arms and carried her over the threshold of their room. She hadn’t even noticed him open the door.

  He carried her down the hall, but then just stood there holding her, gazing into her eyes. “Welcome to the wedding suite, my bride.” His eyes were bright and excited.

  Jordan held her close and kissed her passionately now that they were in private. She couldn’t help but wonder if he wasn’t able to decide what to do with her now that he had her exactly where he wanted.

  “Are you happy?” she asked, breathless from their kiss.

  His warm smile was confirmation enough, but he answered anyway, “Exceedingly so, and you, my love?”

  “Extremely, kiss me again, Jordan.”

  His lips were exultant, his breath heavy. She could feel his heart thundering in his chest as he carried her to the bed, sitting her upright, his lips never leaving hers.

  “Ah, traditions,” he groaned, pulling back slightly. He lifted her dress just high enough to expose the garter wrapped around her thigh.

  “How did you know that was there .
..” She giggled as he tickled the area beneath her knee.

  He grinned up at her. “I didn’t, but I’d hoped. I did tell that woman at the store ... everything.”

  Ever so gently, his strong hands moved up her thigh. His fingers lingered under the lace, tracing a circle around her thigh; then slowly, he pulled the garter lower. Her heart pounded in her chest, her thoughts wild as his hands traced the exposed skin down her leg. Her flesh tingled with anticipation.

  He lifted her onto the middle of the bed and proceeded to remove his jacket, never withdrawing his eyes from hers as he laid it on a nearby chair. He slid in beside her, his head perched on his arm. With unhurried movements, he used his other hand to trace her collarbone and bare shoulders, lowering his lips to her neck. His kisses were persuasive as he nudged up her head with his nose and buried his mouth deeper under the thick tresses of her hair.

  “Jaynee.” He let out a feral gasp as a whoosh of air escaped his lungs. “No man could possibly want his wife this much.”

  He pulled her up so she was also on her side. His arm slipped under her head, supporting her as his other hand pulled her face to his, his lips finding hers. His tongue glided over her lips, exploring. She parted her mouth, an invitation.

  Without hesitation, his mouth was hard on hers. His hand gripped the back of her head as his fingers intertwined in her hair. Her body thrilled with delight; his kissing alone was enough to take her being to another dimension. She breathed in his warmth as he reacted to every thought she had ... as if he could read what she wanted next, where she wanted him to touch her.

  His hand slid down from her hair to her back, trailing across her bare skin, searching and wanting. Slowly, his eyes searching hers, he placed his fingers on the zipper at the back of her dress.

  “May I?” he whispered, subdued, breathless. He didn’t have to ask, but she assumed he wanted her verbal consent, the perfect gentleman.

  “Please ...” was all she could murmur before his lips returned to hers.

  “Jaynee,” he whispered her name again, his breathing as ragged as hers. “I want to make love to you more than anything I’ve ever wanted.”

  He unzipped her dress completely, pulling it off her shoulders and over her waist. She wriggled out the rest of the way. His hand trailed over her waist, tracing a pattern across her stomach, leaving a track of fire everywhere he touched.

  She reached up and began unbuttoning his shirt; he didn’t stop her this time. Instead, when she finished, he returned her to her back as he freed his arms from his shirt and tossed it on the floor.

  Jordan crawled over top of her, suspending his body over hers. “God, you’re beautiful.”

  Self-conscious, she lowered her eyes and took the opportunity to outline his chest with her fingers, following a path to his abs. She looked back up and searched his eyes, a silent request. He plunged his mouth back on hers, an affirmation. She moved her hands to his belt, removing all restraints.

  It seemed as if it would never end, and she didn’t know if she ever wanted it to, but when it finally did, the room spun, her mind exploded, a pleasure she never knew possible washed over her entire body, and a groan of undiluted gratification escaped her lips.

  “Wow!” was all she could manage to utter when they finished making love.

  “That’s an understatement!” He bent his head down once more to kiss her under her jaw, then fell back down alongside her and scooped her up into his embrace.

  They lay there without moving for an immeasurable length of time.

  “How are you feeling, my love?” His tone was blissful.

  She looked up at him. “You have to ask?” Her face flushed so heavily she could feel the warmth in her cheeks.

  “Not really. Not if it was half as good for you as it was for me.” He nuzzled the side of her face as he pulled her closer so he could reach her neck.

  “Probably twice as good is more accurate,” she countered. “You’re amazing.” He pulled back to look at her as if what she’d said shocked him. He might have even blushed, or the hint of pink on his cheeks could have been from the lovemaking, she guessed.

  He huffed lightly, but she could see the hint of a smile. She’d embarrassed him? She didn’t think that was possible. He always seemed so self-assured.

  “So, it’s early,” he said, obviously changing the subject, “what else would you like to do? Do you want dessert?”

  “No,” she sulked, “because then we’d have to get dressed, and I don’t want to move.” She jutted out her lower lip, the pout southern girls learn early in life. He must have noticed, because he touched his fingertips to her lower lip, effectively pushing it back, causing her to smile instead.

  “Room service then?” he suggested. “I worked up quite an appetite and need to build up my energy for later.” His smile was devious; a low growl escaping his lips made her body shiver in pleasant ways.

  “In that case, order up whatever you want.” She kissed him on the forehead then bounded from the bed, wrapping herself in an afghan. Aware of his ever-watching eyes, she sauntered her way around the edge of the bed. She rounded the corner to the bathroom then poked her head back around to see if he was still watching. He was. “I’m going to take a bubble bath.” She closed the door but then opened it slightly, calling out, “You’re welcome to join me.”

  “I’ll be there in two minutes. Make it hot!” His laugh came out in an exuberant burst.

  Chapter Twelve

  Jaynee awoke with Jordan’s arms still wrapped around her. She slowly raised her head, expecting him to be asleep.

  He pressed his lips to her forehead. “Good morning, Mrs. Monroe.” His eyes sparkled in the dim light filtering through the edges of the drawn curtains.

  “Good morning,” she crooned. “Are you sure you sleep?”

  He grinned devilishly as he moved her to her back. “Yes, but I had an incredible dream that woke me. I’d complain, but I know reality is even better.” His eyes smoldered as his fingers traced her lips.

  She blinked at his penetrating gaze. “What was your dream about?” The events of their wedding night pelted her senses, and her body yearned with anticipation, hoping his dream had involved her.

  “How ’bout I show you?” His words dripped with seduction.

  The question was rhetorical; he didn’t give her an opportunity to answer. Once again, he took her to a place she’d be happy if she never returned. She wondered how any woman could ever tire of this; she couldn’t see herself ever not wanting him. Desire burned through her entire body. When their lovemaking ended, a triumphant smile spread across his face.

  “Show off,” she murmured, touching the tip of his nose with her finger.

  He pulled her face to his for a quick kiss. “Just taking care of my husbandly duties.”

  “Well, you’re doing a marvelous job,” she offered. “Not that I have a lot of expertise in this area, but I can’t imagine it getting any better.”

  “A challenge ...” he mused, drawing the word out with a southern version of a French accent.

  Embarrassed again, she buried her head against his chest. “And just how did you get so experienced?”

  He’d said he’d been with women, but had never made love. He never elaborated on how many women, though. She hoped that she’d been good enough, hoped he couldn’t tell how inexperienced she was.

  He sighed. “I’m not experienced, Jaynee.” He rolled his eyes at her comment; clearly, he didn’t want to talk about it. “You’re embarrassing me.” Jordan pushed her up gently. “I’m hungry. Get dressed before I attack you again.” He shooed her off with a swat on her butt. “Dress in jeans and a long-sleeved t-shirt today,” he added as she walked away. “We’ll be outdoors all day.”

  Traffic on the road was light, and within minutes, they were already off the main strip heading for the highway.

  They drove in silence for about fifteen minutes when Jordan leaned over and brushed her cheek. “What are you thinking about?”
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  She turned in her seat and faced him. “I wasn’t thinking about anything really. Just wondering where we’re going, but didn’t want to ask in case it was a surprise.”

  He lifted her hand from her lap and laced his fingers with hers. “It’s not really a surprise, just a place I looked up online that was fairly close. I told you outdoors. Do you like being outdoors?”

  “I love it! My dad took me to the White Mountains in New Hampshire a few times when I was young along with my stepbrothers and stepsister. It was his favorite place in the world,” she babbled on, happy to share a happier part of her life with Jordan.

  He smiled, and his eyes were bright with fresh enthusiasm, evidently grateful to hear everything in her life wasn’t tragic, and perhaps he was happy they shared a passion for the outdoors.

  They made one stop, an outdoor store. Jordan picked up a daypack, hiking boots for both of them, and a jacket for her. He also grabbed some type of blanket, tossed in a few snacks from the counter and a couple of water bottles, and they were back on the road in minutes.

  “This is a rather strenuous hike,” Jordan cautioned her. “But from what I read, it is worth the climb. It will take six hours round trip at a regular pace. But if you get tired, I could always carry you,” he added with a grin.

  She smacked him on the arm, then gestured that they should be on their way. “I assure you I’m not a sissy. I’m plenty used to exercise.”

  The hike was difficult at first. It climbed steeply, and with the sudden rise in altitude, the scenery changed drastically from where they’d started. As they climbed higher, the trail weaved its way through an Alpine forest, something Jaynee hadn’t expected in the middle of the desert. It was cool too, about fifty degrees, so she was grateful for the long-sleeved shirt and jacket.

  Jordan pointed out different trees they passed, Juniper, White Fir, Ponderosa, Limber, and Bristlecone Pines. They traveled through what looked to be a meadow, but the flowers had all gone to sleep for the fall. She wondered what it would be like in the spring.