Dominic's Temptation

Jade James

DOMINIC’S TEMPTATION Book 1: NYPD Blue Series

BY JADE JAMES

www.VenusPress.com

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The scanning, uploading and distribution of this book via the Internet or via any other means without the permission of the publisher is illegal, and punishable by law. Please purchase only authorized electronic editions, and do not participate in or encourage the electronic piracy of copyrighted materials. Your support of the author’s rights is appreciated. This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are either the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events, places, organizations, or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental.

DOMINIC’S TEMPTATION Copyright © 2006 by Jade James ISBN: 1-59836-365-4 Cover Art © 2006 by Steve Cook All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced in any form without permission, except as provided by the U.S. Copyright Law. Printed and bound in the United States of America. For information, you can find us on the web at www.VenusPress.com

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Prologue

“Going out tonight?” Madison Haines asked her sister as she placed her purse down on the night table along with her keys. Madison sighed, eyeing her sister’s seethrough, short, white dress and tan sandals. “You do realize your nipples are on display for anyone to see?” “Yes to both questions. And it’s not my nipples on display. It’s the top swell of my breasts that are peeking out,” Raina laughed. “I’m here to try and convince you to go out with me. It’s been a long time since you’ve been out.” Raina plopped down on the queen-size bed. “I don’t need to go out. I’m perfectly happy spending time at home alone.” Madison arched a brow in annoyance at her sister. This was a common weekly conversation with them. Madison would work forty hours, then come home to find her sister trying to convince her to go out, every Friday night. And though Raina didn’t live with her, Madison wanted Raina to feel like this was her home. She’d given her sister the keys to her home so she could come and go as she pleased. Raina usually stayed over once every weekend. “I’m not going to give you the usual speech.” “You mean you’re not going to annoy me with that you work too hard and need to get laid dialogue?” Madison replied mockingly. She couldn’t help but be sarcastic at times when it came to Raina. She liked to go out and dance merengue, or the salsa, while Madison preferred to stay home and read. “No, Sis. I’m going to save you from that one,” Raina laughed. “But I am going to invite you to a new club that opened up last month. The Raging Inferno is supposed to be really hot. Come and have drinks with me.” “I don’t know, Raina. Don’t you have to be at the university tomorrow?” “Yes, but classes don’t start till eleven. Come on, it’s Friday night and it’s been ages since you’ve been out with me. Just a few drinks, maybe an hour…two tops. Then I’ll drive you home and head straight to the dorm,” Raina pleaded softly. God, she’d always been a sucker for her sister. “Fine, two hours max. Then we 4

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come home.” “Great,” Raina screamed as she jumped off the bed and headed toward Madison’s closet. Madison smiled as she began to take off her clothes. She would like nothing more than to spend the night in bed, preferably with a hot sexy male companion, but she didn’t have too many of those running around. So instead of spending another night at home alone, she finally gave into her sister’s wishes. “Here, wear this,” Raina stated, thrusting the short black dress out to her. “I can’t wear this. It’s been years since I’ve worn it.” “Come on, Madison. Just try it on.” “It probably doesn’t even fit,” Madison scoffed, pushing the dress back into Raina’s hands. “You won’t know unless you try. “ “Fine, Raina, but you owe me for this.”

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Chapter One

The killer stepped from the shadows, a jagged metal blade glinting in the moonlight, clutched in his right hand, arched in readiness. The dimly lit lamppost provided minimal coverage for the murder, but that didn’t seem to deter him. He grabbed the unknowing blonde by the waist, bringing the blade to her neck and slicing through the skin within the span of just a few seconds. Blood gushed from the wound as the victim tried to cry out. No sound emerged as she collapsed onto the cold hard sidewalk in a boneless heap. Madison was mesmerized by the sight, trapped by the fear flowing through her veins and the scream lodged in her throat. She had seen the blonde walking just two blocks ahead of her before she disappeared from view. Madison heard the muffled sounds and hurried, suspecting the woman might have been robbed. Instead, she found a man towering behind her, with a hand clasped around her mouth and another wrapped around her stomach. She jumped into the only hiding place she could think of, a narrow doorway with a wide step ledge. The killer moved, forcing Madison to snap out of the nightmare and scramble for her cell phone. The club was only two blocks behind her, and for a second she thought she might have had a chance to flee back into it, but in the four-inch heels she currently wore he would catch her in no time. Oh god, why did she have to be out tonight of all nights? Why couldn’t she have taken that ride with Raina? “911. What is your emergency?” “I’m two blocks away from the Raging Inferno between Lexington and Fox Streets. I…need help,” Madison forced herself to say, as the killer bent and started rummaging through the purse of his victim. “There’s a killer…he killed her,” Madison whispered, speaking incoherently. “Ma’am, are you in the path of danger?” “Doorway, warehouse. I’m hidden…” she stammered. Something moved in her peripheral vision, distracting her attention from the killer and the phone call. A stray dog 6

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peered at her silently before letting loose with a loud bark, disturbing the quietness of the night. Madison dropped her cell phone at the sound, realizing her cover was blown just as her gaze flew back to the killer. He had spotted the dog and was heading her way. Goddamn, why did this have to happen to poor unsuspecting me? The thought was idiotic, both in contemplation and in timing. There would be plenty of time to call herself names later, if she made it to safety alive. Madison pulled her heels off, discarding the shoes absently. She sprinted off the hidden doorway ledge, running for her life as she made her way back to the club. A half block down no sweat. She pushed herself harder, the dog running along beside her as she heard footsteps behind her. Madison raced, throwing a one second look to her rear as the killer traced the knife along the concrete walls. Screech. The noise was maddening, forcing her to move quicker as fear raced through her veins. Move, girl. You have to do this. You have too much to live for. The sound of police sirens blared through the silent night as the footsteps behind her faded to nothing. Madison spared a quick look behind her, unseeingly colliding with a hard chest. The breath left her lungs as her body abruptly stopped then fell back to the concrete. She cursed as her head hit the pavement, stars exploding behind her eyes as her vision dimmed to nothing. **** He heard the sirens and knew he wouldn’t have time to kill the witness. Fuck! This was a distraction, he hadn’t planned on and if anything he was meticulous in his planning. Still, another kill would have been welcomed tonight. So many years gone by and still no one caught him. He loved the rush of blood, the last cries the victim tried to release before they realized certain death was imminent. He retraced his footsteps, knowing she had dropped something. Ah…there it is, he thought as he quickly picked up the cell phone. The slim metal compact phone was sleek in design, but would hold a wealth of information. Let the hunt begin! The charge of power roared through him. It had been years since he’d experienced a challenge like this. Oh, he was going to love the chase. **** Detective Dominic Morales shielded his gun, bent his knees to check the darkhaired woman’s pulse beneath him. Dios, he’d seen her only seconds before she collided with him. The small golden retriever jumped beside her, lapping at her cheek. He pushed 7

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the dog slightly before his hands traced her neck, finding her heartbeat as he sighed with relief at the strong pulse. He was off-duty and had been parking his car at the Raging Inferno for a drink before heading home when the dispatcher description on the call blared through the dispatch unit. He removed his hands from her soft skin as patrol cars leaped onto the sidewalk, the officers stepping out to secure the scene. “Who is she?” Mateo asked loudly from above. Dominic rose and glanced at his partner of five years. At thirty years old, Detective Mateo Ruiz was the resident genius of the fortieth precinct. His specialty lay in computers, and his abilities were endless. Dominic once asked him how far his hacking abilities extended. And when Mateo replied he could even slam into the Pentagon walls, Dominic surmised it was best to keep that information under wraps. “I don’t know. Get paramedics down here now.” “On it,” Mateo replied as he walked away. Dominic bent again, assessing the brunette lying on the hard sidewalk. Her eyes were still closed, her mouth opened. Her black dress clung to her tightly and she had no shoes on, while her tiny purse was still strapped to her shoulder. Dominic’s eyes strayed to the end of her dress, clinging to the top of her thighs. He knew it was unprofessional as hell of him, but he couldn’t help from staring at where her dress ended. The caramelcolored skin exposed was a tempting sight. The heat was scorching for the month of August in New York. She could have been dressed that way for numerous reasons, but he wondered if she normally wore clothes that made her look like a sexy dark angel. “We’re ready to take her, sir.” Dominic rose to his feet, eyeing the pair of paramedics, a female and a male as they laid the stretcher on the ground. They both reached down and grabbed her, placing her on the gurney. Dominic turned to the female. “What hospital are you taking her to?” “Our Lady of Mercy, sir. We should be there in ten minutes.” Dominic nodded his approval as he reached down and grabbed the unconscious woman’s purse. “Bradley,” Dominic shouted to one of the patrol officers. The eager young blueeyed cop quickly reached his side. “Go with them. No one but the doctors are to enter her room. You reach me on 8

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my cell if anyone tries to.” “Got it, boss,” Bradley nodded, already following the paramedics to the ambulance. Dominic walked over to the crime scene. Mateo had put up parameters, shielding the crime from anyone who would happen to walk by. “What do we have?” Dominic asked as he bent and pulled back the sheet. The victim’s blue eyes were still open, her gaze frozen in horror. Her mouth was slightly parted. Deathly shadows clung to her eyes as if trying to communicate a silent message. The image brought back the nightmare he had buried, too long ago. Dominic closed his eyes, inhaling the scent of death as he recalled for the first time in ten years his sister’s violent murder. Esmeralda was only nineteen, so young, so full of life. His parents and brother had come down to attend his graduation from the police academy a day before. Esme couldn’t come because of her studies, but had spontaneously purchased a plane ticket, flying down the same day. He had cried only once in his life, upon the discovery of his sister’s cut body, three miles from the airport. She left a message on his cell phone, happily stating she would take a cab to the ceremony. It was the last time he heard his sister’s voice. Dominic forced his eyes open, pushing the memory away as he focused on the victim before him. Her neck had been sliced open. That much he could tell. But there was too much blood to make out anything else. He drew the sheet, covering her once more, and rose to his feet. “It appears that the girl that ran into you witnessed this crime scene. She called the crime in, relaying to the dispatcher that she was hidden between that doorway and warehouse over there,” Mateo indicated with a point of his finger. Dominic turned to the doorway. The bottom ledge looked about six inches long. She would fit there, if she were hiding. “Anything else?” he asked, turning back to Mateo. “We’re searching the area now, but so far nothing. The knife hasn’t been recovered. There are no footprints. Nothing to give us an idea who the killer is. The only thing we have is her, and we don’t even know who she is.” Dominic opened the purse he was still holding and pulled out her wallet. Flipping it open, he gazed at her license. She was truly an extraordinary looking woman. Her dark straight long hair flowed around her as she gave the camera a wide mouth, Angelina Jolie grin. 9

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He handed the license to Mateo. “Her name is Madison Haines. Get me everything you can on her, and I mean everything, Mateo. Before the night is through, I want to know what size panty she wears and what she likes to eat.” The remarks were crude, but he meant what he said. He needed to know everything. “Where are you going?” Mateo asked as he pocketed the license. “To meet our witness.” **** Madison grimaced against the pain pounding in her head. She brought her hands up, tracing the bump on the base of her scalp. Oh, that wasn’t such a good idea. The pounding increased, bringing forth a rush of nausea. She smelled the hospital, the antiseptic odor stinging her nostrils. Madison opened her eyes, quickly shutting them as the light brought on a fresh wave of pain. “Take this,” growled a rough sounding voice to her right. Madison felt the man place a cup in one hand and two pills in the other. She rose to a half sitting position. Without question, she placed the medicine in her mouth and drank the water. “Who are you?” she gasped as she felt the coarse hands take the cup from her and ease her back onto the pillows. “No questions. I’ll still be here when you awake.” Madison couldn’t even form any thoughts, let alone ask any more questions as the pills he had given her took hold, and she fell to sleep.

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Chapter Two

Madison opened her eyes, the pain in her head gone. She felt unusually high, her arms and legs strangely lethargic. It wasn’t a bad feeling. It actually felt welcome, after the nightmare she had been through. “How are you feeling, Madison?” Madison gasped, turning her head to the side, finding a man sitting down on the hospital chair. Delicious. As soon as the word entered her mind she shrugged it off. Now was definitely not the time to be drooling over a gorgeous male, but she felt relaxed and slightly goofy. Perhaps it was the drugs that made her think it or just her reaction to him, but this man made her mouth water. He sat back, his black hair gleaming under the hospital lights as he scrutinized her with his dark gaze. Madison stared at his honey-colored eyes. The color definitely stood out against the black clothing he wore. His face was all rugged, his nicely trimmed goatee giving him a sexy pirate look. He wore a black t-shirt, black jeans, and black boots. His arms were bare, the cut muscles exposed. Madison licked her lips, her mouth watering at the sight of his dark mocha skin. She saw his cop badge on the front of his jeans, and the gun clasped in the holster. Her eyes lingered in the area, tempting her with what he had hidden underneath. “How are you feeling?” the sex god asked once more. Madison drew her eyes from the area she really had no business looking at. “I feel wonderful,” she laughed, suddenly sure now that the drugs were making her silly. Whatever it was she took left her feeling lightheaded and lethargic. “I’m glad,” he replied, rising to his feet and walking over to her bed. His voice flowed over her like silk, the hint of a Spanish accent inflaming her senses as recognition took hold. “Your voice sounds familiar. Was it you who gave me the pills before?” “Very perceptive of you. The doctors had left them on the table with directions for you to take them once you awakened.” He stopped at the center of the bed before 11

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reaching out and taking her hand into his. “My name is Dominic Morales. I’m a detective with the NYPD.” “Nice to meet you, Dominic,” Madison replied, relieved to finally put a name to that sexy face. “How do you know my name?” “Nice to meet you too, Madison. And it has become my job to know everything I can about you,” Dominic growled, stroking the inside palm of her hand. That was not the answer she was expecting. But Madison’s brain couldn’t function any longer as she concentrated on the way he touched her. The sensations were pleasant. His hands felt calloused against her skin, creating a slight arousal throughout her body. He drew his hand away as he coughed. “We need to talk about what happened tonight. I need to know everything you can remember about what you saw.” Madison sobered up quickly as the memories came rushing forth. She could feel tears threaten at the horror she had seen. “Do we have to do this now?” “I apologize, but we do.” Dominic reached into his pocket and withdrew a tiny pad and pen. She took a deep calming breath, fear shaking her nerves as she stared at the white wall in front of her. “I was heading home from the Raging Inferno.” “What were you doing at the Raging Inferno?” Madison looked up into his eyes. “I was having a drink with my sister and some friends.” She could get lost in his gaze, the warm color reaching out to her and oddly giving her comfort. “Go ahead.” She returned her gaze to the wall, focusing on the crime she had witnessed. “I declined my sister’s offer to give me a ride, and decided to walk home. I admit it’s not the safest of neighborhoods, especially after this, but it was hot out. Anyway, the woman was walking two blocks ahead of me. She had long blonde hair and a red dress. I don’t remember too much about her. But her eyes were blue…and when he cut her, they stayed open,” Madison sobbed. The last thing she wanted to do was relive the nightmare. “Madison, look at me please,” Dominic said softly, the hint of Latin soothing and inflaming her at once. “You did the right thing. You did everything you could to help that woman.” “I know. I just wish I could have done more.” “Why don’t we do this later? We have two more hours until sunrise. The doctors are holding you for observation till then. I’ll go down to the office, see if anything else 12

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came up, and I’ll be back in time to give you a ride home.” Madison nodded, but there was something bothering her. Dominic knew her name, and the only way he could have known was if he had her purse. “Where’s my purse?” she asked as she glanced at the chair then at the bedside table. Dominic moved forward, pulling the first drawer open and handed her the handbag. Madison took it, immediately delving in. “I have to call Raina. Have you seen my cell phone?” “No. Who’s Raina?” “My sister. She was headed back to Yeshiva University. That’s where she lives most of the time,” she whispered, suddenly remembering where her phone was. “I dropped my phone when he was chasing me.” “Calm down, Madison. We’ll find your phone. I’ll be back in a couple of hours. If you need anything at all, there’s an officer on your door by the name of Bradley. He’ll know where to reach me.” Madison nodded, instinctively knowing that her phone wasn’t going to be found. **** “Bradley, I’ll be back in two hours. No one besides hospital personnel enters. You got me?” Dominic ordered quickly. He almost turned back around, to stay with her. He wanted to reassure her everything was going to be okay. But he needed to head down to the station and see if Mateo had uncovered anything. “Will do, boss,” Bradley replied energetically. Dios, he didn’t think he’d ever felt an attraction this strong to anyone. She looked helpless, lying in the large bed, her big green eyes wide with worry. He wanted to join her in that bed, stroke her back in reassurance and then feel the curves he knew were hidden underneath the hospital gown. It had taken all of Dominic’s willpower to not do what his insides screamed for him to do. Dominic had bitten his tongue against the urge to ask her if she had been meeting with male friends. The very thought was silly since he had just met her tonight, but a baser instinct in him wanted to know if she was unattached. When did his primal urges try and get the best of him? He was a man of principle and always on point with everything. He had his women in the past, basic one night stands because he preferred it that way. These women had always known what his intentions were. But Dominic couldn’t remember a time when he felt this way, a magnetism so strong it made him crave the taste of her, made him anticipate the way she would feel 13

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against him. Her body looked soft, full and lush in all the right places. He closed his eyes, envisioning the way she would fit against him. She wasn’t the one night stand type, and he should have been frightened at the thought, fast peddling out of there, focusing on maintaining a professional relationship. Instead, he welcomed the challenge, relished the pursuit, craved the time when Madison would open her legs and welcomed him. He exited the hospital, walking to the parking lot quickly. Dominic started his car, pulling out of the lot, and headed toward the station. Dios, he didn’t need to be thinking this way. Not right now. He had to put his attraction to her on hold. There were too many things that needed to be worked out, too many questions unanswered. Where was her cell phone? Did the killer see her? If he did, she would become his next target. Dominic tightened his hands against the wheel at the thought. As a professional, he was duty bound to protect her. As a man fiercely attracted to a woman, he would do anything to make sure she would never come to harm.

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Chapter Three

“What do you have for me, Mateo?” Dominic asked as he slid into his office seat. Mateo dropped the two-inch file in front of him before sitting, the manila envelope hitting the desk with a resounding whack. Dominic wasn’t surprised that he had retrieved the information so quickly. “Madison Haines, twenty-seven years old, long black hair, green eyes, five feet three inches tall. She weighs one hundred thirty-five pounds. She’s squeaky clean, no criminal record and only two parking tickets on her DMV records. She works at Hartford House as a Juvenile Counselor for abused children. She’s been employed by them for five years. Her favorite food is sesame chicken with pork fried rice and she loves to drink grape Kool-Aid. She lives five blocks from work, in a two bedroom apartment. Her mother hailed from Capetown, Azania, a city in Africa. She passed away when Madison was nine. Her father is from Ireland. He’s a retired police captain who owns a home in Brunswick, New Jersey. She has one sister, two years younger than she. Her name is Raina. She’s attending Yeshiva University and is in her last year of college, training in forensics.” “Well done.” “I haven’t gotten to the best part,” Mateo replied laughingly. “She wears a size six shoe, a seven in clothing, her bra size is 34D and her underwear size is a small.” “Move on,” Dominic growled, the sizes giving him a clear vision of the woman underneath the clothes. “What did you find at the scene?” “We didn’t find anything at the scene of the crime. Like I mentioned before, no footprints, handprints, nada. Forensics should have our report in another hour. I put it on top alert. They’re trying to ID the victim as we speak. I have six squad cars patrolling the area. Did you get a chance to speak to the girl?” Dominic moved forward, thumbing through the files, his gaze landing on a picture of Madison. “I’m heading back there soon to get a description on our suspect. Her cell phone’s missing.” “Shit!” 15

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“My sentiments exactly. Anyone with two hundred dollars can buy cell phone records off a hacker that knows what he’s doing, not to mention the telephone numbers she has stored. Put a trace on her number. I want a patrol car in front of her home at all times.” “You got it. I have a feeling she’s going to need more than a patrol car, if this perp purposely picked up her cell phone.” “Contact Raina. Let her know what’s going on. I want a uniform patrolling the university at all times.” “On it. As soon as the forensics report comes in, I’ll give you a call.” Dominic nodded. For some unexplainable reason he knew Madison wasn’t going to like the idea of him protecting her twenty-fours a day. The personal information he had on her screamed of independent. Too bad. He wasn’t going to let anything happen to her. **** The fact that her cell phone was missing frightened her, but that wasn’t what scared her the most. Madison wasn’t a fool. She had too many numbers of people she cared about stored on the phone. She needed to get a hold of Raina right away. Madison rose from the hospital bed with her clothes in hand and strode to the bathroom. She shed the gown, discarding it into the wastebasket. She didn’t have any choice in clothing at this moment, so she donned the black dress and four-inch heels once again. Madison dealt with people who committed crimes on a daily basis. Juveniles, their parents, people who made mistakes and continued to make them all the time. But she had never seen anyone’s life be taken away, their blood being spilled on the street as if their life was meaningless. The killing was something she would analyze later. She needed to get a grip on her fear. It was an understandable thing she knew, under these circumstances, but she refused to let the horror rule her life. The drugs they had given her were finally wearing off so Madison concentrated on Dominic. The detective was a pleasant surprise. It had been years since she had felt an instant attraction to a man, especially one who tempted the wanton in her. If she had to use one word to describe him, it would be delicious. His dark skin made her mouth water for a taste of him, and her clit throbbed at the sight of him. Denying her attraction would be futile, but Madison wasn’t intending to lose her heart to any man. Madison dug into her purse, searching for a band. She pulled her hair into a 16

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ponytail and turned the sink on to wash her face. She wiped herself, staring into the mirror. Without makeup she looked sixteen. But in the dress she had worn for Raina’s sake she looked more like a whore than anything else. The neckline was low cut, forcing half of her D-size breast to spill out of its cleavage. The shoes had only added to her hooker-like appearance. The dress was bought in her days at college at the persuasiveness of a man. She had wanted to make a good impression and even though it wasn’t to her taste, Madison had worn it. In the end it was all for nothing. The man she had thought loved her turned out to be one of the biggest assholes around. It was the classic cliché of her best friend and fiancé being so drunk, fucking each other wildly, that they hadn’t even seen her come or leave. Madison had moved on in every sense of the word. She switched colleges and buried her nose in her books, graduating a year early. She had very few people she trusted in life, and preferred it that way. She opened the bathroom door, intending to head for the corridor. Calling Raina was a priority. The cold hospital air blasted her with its intensity as she whipped the door open. Madison took one step. Then she understood what frozen in fear really meant. She gasped at the sight of the officer on the floor. A pool of blood darkened his shirt. Some of the liquid already stained the floor. The man towering over him, wearing a white doctor’s robe, held a knife dripping with blood. Her brain immediately put two and two together and came up with danger. “How did you find me?” she whispered as she took a step back into the doorway of the bathroom. The killer growled, kicking the officer before taking a step towards her. Her gaze remained riveted to his as she carved his face into her mind. Brown hair fell forward, almost covering his eyes as his mouth pursed up into an evil grin. His eyes were frigid in intensity. A scar ran down the length of his cheek, curving towards his mouth, giving him a repulsive look. He was playing with her now, like a crazed animal hunting before its kill. In his eyes she read his intent to make her suffer, his plan to kill her. “It’s what I do, hunt. Then when it comes to the point where I can smell the fear, I end their life. Sometimes I play with them though. I want to play with you. You saw something you weren’t meant to see.” Madison could almost taste the fear threatening to override her brain. She forced 17

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her mind to think of something, anything to get out of the nightmare. She didn’t have too many alternatives. He was still about three feet away from her, which was a good thing. Her only hope was to race back into the bathroom and pray that the lock would hold him in place until the cops arrived. Madison tensed, her body remaining rigid and ready. If the bastard wanted a fight, he was going to get one. She wasn’t going down easy. With a speed she didn’t know she possessed, Madison turned, ran the two steps into the bathroom, flinging the door closed. She used her body weight to hold the door shut, before pushing the lock into its place. The killer jiggled the doorknob. Madison turned, searching for something she could at least use for a weapon. The scraping noise behind her doubled her fear. He was using the knife to try and open the door. Her mouth went dry as her life flashed before her eyes. And she realized there was so little she had accomplished and so much more she wanted to do. Her hands trembled as she threw her shoes off. Madison looked around the room, searching for a way to escape. She could always wait and see if someone saw him coming into her room, but then again he was dressed as a doctor. That wasn’t going to look suspicious at all. I don’t want to die! Don’t panic, Madison. Think. Her gaze fell on the window, right above the toilet. Of course. It looked big enough to squeeze through. She climbed on top of the toilet seat and unlocked the window, hefting it open. Adrenaline pumped through her as she looked around once more and spotted the small red box hanging on the wall right above the toilet paper dispenser. Madison pushed the fire alarm down, the shrill sound causing her to jump before sticking her head out the window. Water cascaded down from the ceiling in response to the alert. She climbed onto the window ledge. The pounding behind her had ceased the moment the alarm had rung. Madison closed her eyes against the dizziness assailing her senses. Her room was on the second floor and to someone else the distance would have probably been short. But Madison had a fear of heights. And it was one thing she never conquered, but would have to now. She slowly made her way to the huge emergency room sign hanging on the canopy roof. She felt her heart pounding hard in fear, her skin begin to sweat. The heat of the sun did nothing to calm her shivering body as her vision dimmed. I can’t pass out now. Madison slid down the wall, the cold granite roof hitting her bottom. She closed 18

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her eyes and took deep breaths, hoping it would calm her as she heard the blaring sound of the police and fire department. Her mind flew to a safe place, a haven she had created in time of fright and need. Madison shielded herself from the world as she waited for help to arrive, believing truly that it wasn’t her time to die.

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Chapter Four

Dominic tensed, anger threatening to overtake him as he watched forensics bag Bradley. He had found Bradley first, face up in a pool of blood, his neck gaping wide open. The bastard liked gutting them, making them suffer. Fucking cabron! He was going to kill this son of a bitch, badge be damned. It was a fucking beheading, a careless monster act. His stomach rose, tightened as he swallowed the bile threatening to spew from his lips. Again he found himself fighting his memories, using his will to concentrate on the evidence before him. Bradley fought, the blood on his fingertips and broken fingernails proof he didn’t go out calmly. But he never got the chance to draw his gun. The coroner would make the final judgment, but all signs pointed to Bradley being caught unaware, probably caught from behind. “Where did you find her?” Mateo asked, the anger in his tone evident. Dominic stared at Madison’s shivering form as the doctor stabbed a needle into her arm. She was still in shock, staring sightlessly ahead. “Passed out on the ledge of the entrance roof. Did you find anything?” “Dr. Craig Matthews’ body was stuffed in a janitor’s closet. Poor bastard was stabbed once in the chest. He’s missing his identification and white coat. We’re checking on the signed visitors log out front.” Dominic frowned as he moved to the side, allowing forensics to exit the room. “From what you just said I gather Bradley allowed the supposed doctor in and probably turned his back on the son of a bitch. He killed him and went after Madison. The markings on the bathroom appear to have been done with a sharp object.” Madison’s eyes were already closing, the tranquilizer taking effect. “Dios! When I get my hands on this bastard, I’ll kill him,” Dominic bit out, anger causing him to grind his teeth in frustration, his Spanish accent evident in his fury. “This hospital gets checked from top to bottom. I want every closet and room searched. Contact every visitor who came in today. I want to know how this bastard knew where to find 20

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her.” “Got it.” “Give the orders. Suspect is heavily armed. Everyone is to proceed with caution. He makes one move, we’re asking questions later. As soon as I get a description on him, I’ll call you. Send a car for Raina. Bring her to Madison’s home. Contact me there,” Dominic growled as he bent, roping an arm under Madison’s knees and one around her shoulders, picking her up, and heading out of the room. **** Dammit! There was something she should be remembering, but the softness underneath, the warm air swirling around her, threatened to drag her back under. Madison fisted her hands, forcing her eyelids open as she turned her head. She was home, the familiar warm sage green colors of her bedroom catching her eye. Madison rose from the bed, quickly realizing she was naked underneath her comforter. She walked over to her dresser. Opening the drawer, she pulled out a pair of cotton shorts and tank top. She dressed quickly then walked down the hall into the living room. “You’re up.” Surprised, her eyes rounded on Dominic, lying back on her reclining chair. She couldn’t pull her gaze from the way his t-shirt stretched like a second skin. “What are you doing here?” “I’ve been assigned to your case. And that means I’m not letting you out of my sight.” “How long was I out?” Madison asked, forcing her eyes away from his chest. “About three hours.” “You’ve been here since then?” “Yes. How are you feeling?” “A little woozy, but other than that, fine. If you’ll excuse me for one second, Dominic, I need to call my sister. She’s probably worried to death by now.” “Madison, my partner Mateo is watching over your sister as we speak. Sit down. We need to talk,” Dominic stated gently as he walked over to her. “A lot has happened since you’ve been asleep.” “Is Raina okay?” “Trust me. Raina is fine.” Madison nodded, allowing her tense body to relax a little as she sat on the 21

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loveseat. Dominic sat next to her, filling her senses with the warmth of his body. She swallowed past the hard lump lodged in her throat. She was officially going insane. All she could think about was running her hands over his body, when she should be concerned about someone trying to kill her, not once but twice. Yep, I should really check myself into the mental ward. “Breathe, Madison,” Dominic whispered against her cheek. Madison stiffened, realizing she’d been holding her breath. “Tell me what happened.” Madison clutched her hands as her body trembled, memories surging forth. “He came at me and—and—I…” she babbled, before closing her eyes. Shit! Now I’m stuttering like an idiot. “Madison, look at me,” Dominic growled. Madison arched a brow at his rumbling tone as he grabbed her hands, enfolding them in his. “You are amazing. You know that? You have managed to keep it all together, when another person would have probably broken down already. I’m here, for now. And I have no intentions of letting you out of my sight until this bastard is caught. There is a mini tape recorder in my back pocket. I’m going to take it out and turn it on so I can tape your statement.” Dominic removed his hand from hers, and reached behind for the recorder. He held it in his palm as he used his other hand to grab hers. “Now take a deep breath, and begin slowly.” The heat of his skin against hers strangely calmed her enough to start her recollection of the murders. Her mind flitted back to the hospital. “I wanted to get in contact with Raina. I went into the bathroom to dress. When I came out, he was there, standing over him, kicking Bradley as if he were nothing,” Madison whispered as Dominic tightened his hands, silently giving her strength to continue. Madison closed her eyes, bringing the killer’s image to mind. “He wore a doctor’s coat. I wasn’t paying attention to his pants or shoes. His brown hair was wavy and long. I remember his eyes being so black, like the color of midnight. They were so cold, and he had a pleased look in his gaze. He has a scar on his right cheek. It starts from the top of his cheekbone and curves into his mouth. His lips are thin. He’s about six feet tall, a little shorter than you. His skin is dark brown. He told me that he was a hunter and that’s how he found me. He said he was going to play with me, that he enjoys playing with the victim, before murdering them. He said he likes to smell their fear.” 22

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“How did you come to be on the canopy roof?” Madison opened her eyes at his question. “It was you that found me?” “Yes. I told you I’d be back. I just wish I would have gotten there sooner.” Madison smiled weakly. “Like you said, it’s not my fault nor is it yours that some crazy person has his sight set on me.” “Regardless, I shouldn’t have left you alone. Dios, when I found you on that roof you were passed out.” “He had a knife in his hand. It looked like the same one he had used on the lady. I remember it being big, and the edges curving in like jagged pieces. He started to come after me. I was literally two steps away from the bathroom. It was the only chance I had to escape, so I took it. I locked myself inside, but he started using the knife to try and get through the bathroom door. I didn’t think the door was going to hold him any longer, so I opened up the window and crept out on the ledge. The canopy roof looked wide enough to hold me.” “You did good, Madison. Real good,” Dominic whispered as he stroked her hands with his thumb. Her skin began to tingle as she immersed herself in the feel of his calloused skin. Nothing in the world turned her on more than a man who worked with his hands. “Your sister is under Mateo’s protection. She stopped by earlier. I got her up to speed on what’s going on. For now, she will be staying with him. I have some calls to make. Is there a phone I can use?” “There’s a phone in the kitchen.” Dominic nodded, untangling his hands from her and rose. “I’ll go make those calls.”

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Chapter Five

“Forensics found no weapon. The first victim was thirty-year-old Leann Gainer from Peekskill, New York. She was visiting her sister for the weekend. Dr. Craig Matthews was stabbed once in the chest. The curved edges on his stab wound prove that he was murdered with the same weapon as the first victim.” Dios, it’s happening all over again. “Get every file you can on Esme Morales.” “Your sister?” “Yes! I can bet my fucking house it’s the same son of a bitch who killed Esme. The key is the knife, Mateo. The sharp-ridged knife,” Dominic bit out. He gripped the phone tightly, frustration settling in. If this was the same person who killed Esme, then they were dealing with an intelligent killer. “I’m on it. How far are we looking back?” “Start with 1996 and then move forward. Get those files ASAP then have the clerk look for the years prior.” “Got it.” “Any news on how he found Madison?” Dominic asked as he watched Madison take steaks out of the fridge. “We theorize the killer made phone calls to several hospitals in the area, before hitting the jackpot. We’re checking hospital phone records now. With the amount of people that call, it’s going to take a while.” “Did forensics give you a report?” “The pathologist stated Dr. Matthews’ body was still warm when it was found. Rigor mortis usually sets in three to thirty-six hours after an individual dies. Factor that with the last person Dr. Mathews had spoken to and the pathologist surmises he was killed about twenty minutes to half an hour before Bradley was. After checking the security logbooks, a man by the name of Cesar Perez signed himself in around that time. He claimed he was having pains in the abdomen. Security directed him to the emergency room. He never showed up. Our technicians are going through the security video tapes as 24

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we speak.” “Any trace on her phone?” “Nothing. So far, the killer isn’t using the phone to make calls. But I bet he’s having a great time accessing her list.” “Contact the authorities in New Jersey. I want a police unit protecting her father around the clock. I wouldn’t put it past the fucking bastard to travel three hours just to make Madison’s life a fucking hell. How’s Raina doing?” “She’s flirting with Antonio,” Mateo replied suddenly. Dominic laughed. “I take it she’s not buying any of your charm?” “You owe me big time for sticking me with a flashy princess.” “Don’t let the princess out of your sight,” Dominic grunted. “Stop by in about an hour. I have Madison’s statement on tape. Have our artist come by with you. I need a drawing on the description she gave us. I want it on the eleven o’clock news tonight and in the papers by morning.” “You got it.” “Adios, Mateo.” “Adios.” Dominic hung up the phone and watched as Madison cooked over the stove. “It’ll be about twenty minutes before the food is done. I feel like I haven’t eaten in forever,” Madison laughed. Dominic frowned at the sound of her voice. Her laugh was forced as if she was hiding her fear or pain. He wasn’t an expert on the psychological, but he knew it helped to talk. “How’s my sister doing?” Madison asked as she turned to face him. “She’s fine. She’ll be here in an hour along with my partner Mateo. I’m more worried about you.” “I’m as well as can be expected. It is nerve wracking knowing someone’s out to get you, but I have to move on. Who’s Esme? Is she the girl I saw killed?” “Esme was my sister. She was murdered ten years ago. The FBI never found her killer. She was killed the same way as Leann. Leann is the name of the woman you saw being murdered.” “Dominic, I’m sorry. I know what it is to lose someone you truly love.” “I thought I was past the point of feeling any pain, but dios, it still hurts inside.” Dominic froze. Had he ever told anyone about the way it felt losing Esme? What was it about Madison that made him want to open up? She looked so innocent standing before 25

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him, her eyes softening in recognition of the hurt he was going through. “My mom died when I was nine,” she whispered softly as she took a step closer to him. “At first, it hurt too much, and all I could think about was her leaving me. But as I grew older I realized I would rather have her living as an angel in heaven then be in any amount of pain. Think of it that way, Dominic. Esme is watching over you now.” Dominic walked over to her, lured by the sound of her soft voice and the sureness of eternity. He didn’t stop until he had her pinned between the kitchen counter and him. Mere inches separated them. Dominic felt the heat of her body as he reached out, tempted to touch the exposed skin between her neck and shoulder. He pulled back at the last minute. His shaft hardened, stiff with the fierce arousal he felt for her. Why couldn’t he get a grip on the desire he had for her? Sure, he’d been attracted to women before, but something about the innocence in her eyes reached out to him. “Tell me how you do it.” Dominic leaned in and inhaled her scent, breathing in the aroma of jasmine. His palms itched to feel the silkiness of her black hair, but he waited, preferring to prolong the pleasure he knew she would give him. “Do what?” Madison whispered nervously. “I found you on the roof of the entrance building at the hospital, completely zoned out. The doctors thought it was shock, but I saw more than that. Your eyes were lifeless. It was a dangerous position to put yourself in. Tell me how you do it,” Dominic whispered against her ear as he gave in to his desire to touch her, and grasped her waist. Madison wanted to comfort him. Her heart broke at the pain he had for his sister’s death. But now she could scarcely remember the painful conversation. He was too close, his closeness making butterflies flutter in her stomach. She was struggling to answer his question as his hands tightened around her waist. Why did Dominic appeal to her to the point of forgetting her own name? She breathed deeply, the warm scent of spice and male lingering in the air. His hands held her securely and she could feel the strength in them. Her pussy creamed at the possessive way he held her. The man really expected her to answer a question, when she couldn’t even form a coherent thought. Madison moved sideways, dislodging herself from his hold, putting distance between them. Dominic fisted his hands, crossing his arms around his chest as if waiting for her answer. “I didn’t think anyone would notice. When I was a child I fell into a covered manhole that led to the subway lines below the city. Lucky for me, the city was in the 26

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middle of building a new station so no trains were still operating on the line. I was twelve years old, but so fearful of the monsters that lurked in the night. The sounds that came from that hole, the darkness, the brushing of rats against my legs was too much to bear. The police didn’t find me until the next day, but to survive the night, I shut my mind down. I wish there was another way I could explain it to you. I acknowledge it isn’t normal, but I fear going insane would have been worse,” Madison whispered, trembling at the full recollection of the memory. Dominic moved forward, taking her into his arms. She put her arms around his waist, loving the way his solid warmth supported her as she laid her head on his chest. She couldn’t recall another time when she felt like this, protected and cared for. Dominic made her feel emotions she thought were long buried. Scratch that. He made her feel alive. The ache between her legs attested to that as well as the pounding in her heart. She couldn’t help but raise her head and stare at him. His lips were parted, and her tongue slipped out, wetting her own, tempting Madison to taste him. What would he taste like? She could feel his arousal pressed into her stomach as her clit throbbed with want. The sizzling crackling sound along with the aroma of steaks brought her out of her desire. Madison stepped away from him, turned around and proceeded to flip the steaks over. She didn’t dare look back at him. She knew if she did, her gaze would be glued to his shaft, and she would be enticed to do something really silly, like release his cock and give it the proper greeting it deserved. With her mouth.

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Chapter Six

“So Dominic, tell me something about yourself?” Madison asked as she set the two bottles of beer down beside the heaping plates of food. Her stomach grumbled. She picked up the fork, stabbed a piece of steak tip and proceeded to devour the morsel. Dominic took a couple of bites before answering. “What do you want to know?” “Your age, are you single, any brothers?” Madison inquired, before taking a swig of her Corona. “Thirty-three years old, one younger brother serving in the Marines. I’m single and looking,” Dominic murmured huskily as he arched a brow for emphasis on the last words. Madison blushed at his hint. “And your parents?” “My mom and dad both live in Arecibo, Puerto Rico. We grew up there. I left for the States at eighteen, did a couple of years of college, and then entered the police academy. How about you and your Dad? Are you and Raina close with him?” Madison shook her head as she ate some more baked potato then took another chug of beer. Glad for the momentary respite, Madison collected her thoughts. The relationship between her Dad and she was a delicate one. They had spent a lot of time arguing before she had enough and moved out on her own. “My father couldn’t deal with my mother’s death, so he threw himself into his work. That left me to deal with six-year-old Raina. I had to grow up pretty quickly.” Dominic’s eyes narrowed, an angry look passing his face. “How did you do it? You were practically a baby.” “Hardly,” Madison smirked then shrugged. “I set a routine for us. I bathed, dressed, fed Raina. Both of us were ready by the time the school bus came to pick us up. Dinner was a simple affair and I made sure Raina did her homework, while I worked on mine. Dad would come home around nine or ten. We would usually be in bed by then.” “He never tried to change…never helped?” “Yes, he offered to help. But it was too little, too late. I was twenty years old when he finally realized his daughters had all grown up. Since then, we’ve spoken but it 28

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hasn’t been the same, not since Mom died,” Madison murmured, her eyes fixated on her ceramic floor. “I’m sorry,” Dominic whispered, his soft voice making her jerk her gaze from the floor. “Don’t be. I learned the hard way to depend on no one but myself,” she replied as she stood to collect the dinner plates. He narrowed his eyes. Her last remark shouldn’t have annoyed him, but it did. Dominic grabbed her wrist gently, but with enough force to stop her from picking up the plates. “You will learn to depend on me.” “I do appreciate everything you’ve done, Dominic. I realize that you’ve probably gone above the call of duty by just being here, but I can’t help but ask. We are talking short term here? Until the killer is caught?” Madison asked softly. Dominic purposely took his time answering, rubbing his thumb across her inner wrist. He desired her, meant to take it slow with her, but Madison’s words pushed him. He wanted her to admit there was something happening between them. And for the first time ever, he wasn’t thinking on short terms. “Why don’t I help you with the dishes?” Dominic asked, avoiding her question. He would answer it soon, but now wasn’t the time. Her ordeal had been too much, her life a struggle and pressuring her into a relationship wouldn’t be a good thing. But Dominic would only concede to that. He was a man who never gave up on what he wanted. And Madison had a way of tempting him to go beyond the personal relationship boundaries he set for himself. Dominic rose from his seat, picked up the plates, and loaded them into the dishwasher. He felt her eyes burning into him from behind as he tasted the heated tension in the air. He turned to Madison. She stood next to the table, one hand on her hip, the other resting on the tabletop. Dominic walked forward, aroused by the way her nipples poked through her tank top. His fingers tingled, itching to grasp the tips and feel them hardening further beneath his touch. “Why are you avoiding the question?” she asked, raising a dark eyebrow. “You’re not ready to hear what I want to say,” Dominic replied, silently wondering if she felt the attraction between them. Hoping it wasn’t just one-sided, Dominic reached out, giving in to the maddening urge to touch her. He ran his index finger along the side of her neck, touching her soft skin, feeling her rapid pulse beat. The telltale sign confirmed what he thought she felt for 29

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him as he leaned in and gave into his desire. Oh my god, he’s going to kiss me. And I’m not going to do a thing to stop him. Madison moved forward, purposely stopping as her lips parted and her breath mingled with his. His hand moved, his fingers curling into the nape of her neck as he nudged her forward. Opening her mouth wider, she traced his lips with her tongue, feeling the soft skin. She moaned as his hot spicy flavor hit her taste buds, igniting her senses. A punch of hunger tightened her stomach as her clit throbbed with need and her pussy melted with heat. She waited until she felt his hand push her head forward, a silent signal that he was ready for more. Her hands crept up, sliding under the t-shirt he wore as she felt his other hand move to her ass. Madison moved as close as possible to him as she ran her hands over his hot chest. Pushing her stomach against his shaft, she felt every inch of his throbbing cock. She had an inkling he was letting her control the kiss by the way his body remained tensed and the tight way he held her ass. But it was the last thing she wanted or needed. His aggressive nature was what compelled her to him. She instinctively knew a beast lay underneath his steel façade, and she was the perfect woman to set the animal free. Breaking off the kiss, she stared directly into his eyes, dipped her hand into his sweats and grabbed his shaft. Her hand tingled with heat as she felt the hot steel covered with satin skin. Dominic leaned his head back, closed his eyes, groaning at the feel of her hand on him. “You don’t have to be safe with me. I want you. I want the real you,” she whispered as she rubbed her thumb over the head of his shaft. And just like that she had him. Madison watched as his head snapped up forcefully. He was fast, she’d give him that. It was like a rush of wind had entered him as he grabbed her by the waist and placed her on the dinner table. Her whispered words were like a mechanism activating the inner dominant animal. It was all too much and happening way too fast. He knew that in the back of his mind, but Dominic couldn’t stop the craving he had for her. Madre de dios, but her touch set him on fire. His shaft felt like a steel pole in his pants as it throbbed like a toothache. Gone were the memories of countless women in his past as he instantly knew Madison would change his life forever. 30

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Paciencia. Dios, don’t fucking rip her shirt off. His hands trembled with need as he tried to slowly slip a strap of her tank top off. But he couldn’t wait. The need built and built inside and for a second all he could concentrate on was the hand she seemed to have glued to his shaft. The ripping sound shouldn’t have been a surprise, not when she tormented him with such sexy words. But she gasped anyway, arching her body forward as he ripped the material right in half. Her breasts bounced softly from the impact, the bounce emphasizing the delicious treats. Now he could concentrate on something besides his aching cock. He could focus on her breasts like they were meant to be worshipped. And what a gorgeous sight it was. He wrapped his hands around her breasts, savoring the feel of her soft skin. Dominic traced the hardened nipples, the color reminding him of chocolate. “Lay down,” he growled roughly. A second passed as she contemplated his command, hard-pressed to let go of his cock. She released his shaft, laying back on the wood surface. Dominic knew she wouldn’t deny him, not when she was just as aroused as he was. He could smell the scent of her pussy through her shorts and his mouth watered with the temptation of tasting her. Dios, but he wanted to fall to his knees and eat her out right then and there. But first he wanted to play with her beautiful breasts. He bent forward as he took her wrists in one hand, holding them secure but not too tight. Her breasts were thrust even higher as he adjusted himself so his cock was aligned with her cloth-covered pussy. Even through his jeans, he felt the heat of her cunt. He should rip her shorts off and fuck her like there was no tomorrow. That would have been the old him. He wasn’t going to treat her like a whore, not when he knew she was a hundred times more valuable than that. “Dios, Madison, I’ve been thinking about having you this way since we met,” he whispered against her chest. He blew on her breasts, loving the way her nipples crinkled before hardening even further. He bent his head toward the last remaining inches that separated them, then took her nipple into his mouth and swirled his tongue around it. Her jasmine-scented skin went to his head. Like an addict, Dominic instantly needed more. He laved her, tasted, and nipped her breast, loving the way her hands flew to his hair, holding him tighter to her. His hand traveled down to her shorts, tracing the elastic band around her lower stomach. Dominic felt Madison tense beneath him, briefly aware of the ringing in his ears. His cock throbbed like a toothache, and he wanted nothing more than to sink into 31

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her slick pussy. “Dominic, the doorbell,” Madison whispered, as her hands attempted to push him off of her. Dominic grunted furiously, summoning the will to remove his hands from her as he rose from his position. Madison licked her lips, staring back like a frightened doe. He grabbed her hips, pulling her to her feet. “Get dressed,” he whispered as he turned and went to answer the door.

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Chapter Seven

It took a while for his shaft to go down, and even then Dominic found himself sitting on Madison’s sofa with one of her cushions in front of his jeans in case his stubborn erection decided to make its presence known. Mateo sat across from him, right beside a worried-looking Raina. She looked a lot like her sister, dark hair, wide-mouth grin. The only difference was in the eyes. Raina had a warm honey color to her eyes, where Madison’s eyes were a dark shade of green. Antonio arrived two minutes later with Shayla Santini, the forensic artist, and Brandi Montgomery, the crime scene technician. Both women were the best in their field, and usually sought out by the higher organizations like the FBI or CIA. The precinct’s Casanova strutted in slowly with a pleased grin on his face as he wrapped an arm around each of the women. Madison entered the living room, heading straight for Raina. Barefoot and looking sexy as hell, she was dressed now in blue low waist jeans and a blue t-shirt that clung to her breasts tightly. Dios, but she made his blood boil, all of the liquid heading straight to his cock. Dominic swallowed tightly, silently grateful that he had the sense to hide his shaft earlier. Madison walked into the living room, jittery nerves making her halt at the entryway as she stared into Dominic’s eyes. Their gazes clashed as the air heated around them. He looked intense, as if he wanted to leap from the sofa and take her. She felt the sexual adrenaline pounding through her as her pussy creamed at his feral stare. For an instant, she forgot about everyone else and wanted nothing more than to climb on his lap and hang on for the wild ride. Madison forced herself to move, pushing back the need she had for Dominic, and made a beeline for Raina. Focusing on her sister, Madison saw the dark circles underneath her eyes as if sleep eluded her. Kneeling down in front of her, heedless of the others in the room, Madison grabbed her hands and whispered, “You okay?” It was her job to take care of Raina, and she wasn’t intending to stop now just because she was the one in trouble. 33

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“I’m fine, Sis. I stopped by earlier, but Dominic said you were sleeping. Are you okay?” “Don’t worry about me, honey. Honestly, I’m fine. Has Dad called you?” “I spoke with him briefly. He’s worried about you.” “I’ll give him a call later. I promise.” Madison rose from her position, and sat next to Raina. Dominic made the necessary introductions. “Let’s begin,” Mateo stated, rising from his seat. Dominic nodded. “Shayla, have you seen the hospital surveillance tapes?” “I have. It seems our suspect knew how to avoid the camera, never quite giving us a full view of his face. Unfortunately, we’re not dealing with an idiot here. The analysis we were able to obtain is in Brandi’s file, and it isn’t much.” “Review what’s on this tape. I want to see the sketch before you leave,” Dominic replied harshly. Madison’s eyes narrowed as Shayla made a production of swaying her hips, walking to Dominic seductively. She grabbed the tape, before setting her eyes on Madison. “I need a quiet room. Where can I go?” the icy blonde asked, directing the question to Madison. “My office is down the hall, second door to your left.” Shayla nodded, before walking off. “Brandi, what do you have?” “Take your pens and pads out gents, I believe we have a serial killer on the loose,” Brandi replied, rising from her seat. She reached into her briefcase, and retrieved several files, handing them all to Dominic. “Let’s start with the knife. From the previous murders and the two we have now, we believe the same knife was used because of the curved edges on the victims,” Brandi replied as she pulled out a photo of the weapon. “Is this the weapon you saw?” Madison felt her throat closing in fear. I have to be strong for Raina’s sake. She nodded, too frightened to do anything else. “It’s called a Gurkha Kukri hunting knife, only available through a catalog company based in Japan. I’ve already requested a special jurisdiction warrant, requesting the company hand over all their orders for this particular item in the past ten years. The blade design is made with a special carbon black epoxy coating. The curved edges are called dropped point tips and are what makes this knife unique. It was especially designed to hunt animals.” 34

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“He said he liked to hunt,” Madison whispered. “Only he’s not hunting animals, he’s hunting humans.” “Maddy…we’ll get him,” Dominic replied surely. “He isn’t getting anywhere near you or your family.” She wished she could believe in him, but she wouldn’t put her life in anyone’s hands. She couldn’t do it with her father, and she wouldn’t do it with Dominic. “Anything special on the victims?” Dominic asked, directing the question to Mateo. “Over the span of ten years, we’ve uncovered five women killed with the same type or the same knife. I’m sorry amigo, but Esme was one of them. The only two males were the doctor and Bradley. We think he killed them just to get to Madison. The victims are linked because of the special type of weapon used. Besides the doctor, all of the murders were neck wounds. From the height of the cut, we surmise the killer to be about six feet tall. Look the files over, Dominic. These women were all killed in New York. We’re not dealing with the insane type here. This pendeho knows what he’s doing. Every murder has been meticulously planned. This fucker is killing sporadically. Each victim was probably either watched, followed, or even contacted by the killer before their deaths. Police Commissioner Richard Kelly is giving us time to collect more evidence before calling the Federal Bureau of Investigation,” Mateo acknowledged angrily. “I want you to stop by the Raging Inferno once we have a picture. If he’s stalking his victims before the kill, then it could be that he met Leann at the club that night or before then,” Dominic replied, running a hand through his hair, a response he usually did when frustration would set in. “The files I handed to you have everything you need. We have the office clerk looking into the prior years,” Brandi stated. “We’re still checking the call tapes at the hospital. It’s a lot to go through. Hundreds of people call every day, requesting information on patients and directions to the hospital, but our department should have something for you within a day or so. This guy’s never been caught, never been challenged. I’m speaking in theory here, but this killer is after Madison because she’s seen him. She presents a new challenge for him, and this bastard isn’t afraid of the fact that she has the police surrounding her. It’s a game to him.” “Anything on Madison’s cell phone?” “He hasn’t used it…yet,” Antonio replied from his laid-back position against the wall. “Cesar Perez was the name he used to sign into the hospital security log book. I looked up the name. We have about a hundred Cesar Perezs in the city. I’m in the middle of checking each and every one of them out. The address he left was phony. Mateo and I 35

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drove by as soon as we got the information. It’s a Housing Preservation & Development site. The building isn’t even built yet.” “He’s fucking playing with us,” Dominic stated furiously. “Do we have a profiler on hand?” “I’ve already contacted Marcos Semite. He’s not in the business anymore, but he says he’s worked with you before.” “I remember him,” Dominic replied grimly. “He’s worked with the FBI and CIA on some of their top cases.” “He should be flying in tomorrow,” Mateo replied. “Give him whatever information he needs. Call me as soon as he comes up with a profile.” “Is it safe to say my sister will need a twenty-four-hour bodyguard?” Raina asked, the sarcasm evident in her tone of voice. Dominic gripped the files tightly, before laying them on the coffee table. Frustration ate at his gut, threatening to consume his rationality. “This case isn’t going to be an easy one. So, yes I’d say she’s going to need a twenty-four-hour bodyguard.” Raina’s eyes narrowed at his angry tone. “If anything happens to Madison, I’m holding you ultimately responsible.” “Calmate mi princesa,” Mateo grunted. “He’s not going to let anything happen to your sister.” “Don’t tell her to calm down, and she’s definitely not your princess,” Madison replied, before rising to her feet. “You speak Spanish?” Dominic asked, rising to his feet also. Madison shrugged. “I speak it. Anyone up for pizza while Shayla finishes her work?” “Pizza sounds good,” Raina replied as she dashed for the cordless phone. “I’ll order a couple of pies.”

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Chapter Eight

Madison bit into the cheesy pizza, licking at the sauce that dribbled on the corner of her mouth. In business for over fifty years, Angelo’s Pizzeria made the best pizza around. Madison threw a glance at Dominic. His slice of pizza lay on the coffee table untouched as he poured threw the files. His black eyebrows were narrowed in concentration. He wasn’t exaggerating when he said this case wasn’t going to be an easy one. She half turned in her seat as Raina walked in with a pitcher of iced tea and paper cups. Raina picked up a slice, poured a cup of tea and sat beside her. Madison waited until Raina ate half of her slice before bringing her suggestion up. “Raina, I think you should stay with Dad while this thing blows over.” Through her peripheral vision, Madison saw Dominic’s head snap up the second she stated her idea. “I think that’s a horrible idea. You know how grouchy Dad is. And I’d be too worried about you.” “We can’t protect her three hours away,” Mateo declared, a little too fiercely. “It’s best she stay here, where we can watch her.” “I agree with Mateo,” Dominic replied as he rose from his seat. “He can watch her closely here.” “Who says I want to stay with Mr. Arrogant over there,” Raina shouted. “I think it’s better if I stay here with my sister.” Mateo rose from his seat as well, and was about to open his mouth, but Dominic held up his hand, stopping him. “It’s not going to happen,” Dominic replied, a little too forcefully. “I’ll get the details hashed out with Richard later. But this is the way it’s going to go down. I’m going to be staying here with Madison. Raina’s with Mateo.” “I appreciate the help you guys are giving us, but when the fuck did Raina's or my life become a debate? I’ve always looked out for her, and it isn’t going to stop now, just because you two jarheads can’t decide who’s babysitting who,” Madison replied as she 37

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rose from her seat. The outburst felt good. She had a habit of holding things inside until her anxiety got to a boiling point, but she had no intention of backing down from anyone. Madison didn’t miss the angry look Dominic threw her way. He walked over to her slowly. She held his stare, angry at his aggressiveness and captivated at the same time by his dark brooding appeal. “You do not want to test me now, Maddy. Not now and not in front of everyone,” he growled softly into her ear. A spark of heat shot through her at his dominance, turning her on like a light switch. She leaned in and whispered for his ears alone, “I’d be willing to test you out anytime.” The little devil inside her jumped for joy at teasing him while the angel side warned her. She knew he was a force to be reckoned with, but she couldn’t help but push his buttons. Dominic growled softly in response. “As much as I hate to break this intriguing scene up,” Shayla stated, “I’m going to have to. I need to have the witness’s approval for the sketch.” Dios, Madison knew how to turn him on with just a whisper of intention. She was a temptation and with each passing moment he wanted her fiercely. His shaft hardened at the sight of her wetting her lips. Madison was playing a very dangerous game, and he had every intention of showing her who the master was going to be. He held out his hand, signaling for the sketch without removing his eyes from the tempting sight. He grabbed the draft, glancing down at the killer’s face, before showing it to Madison. Her eyes went wide in shock. Dominic tensed, holding back the need to take her in his arms and assure her that everything would be all right. “Is this the killer?” “Yes,” she whispered. “That’s him.” Dominic glanced down at his watch. “Antonio, get this to the station. Have them make copies and circulate. Contact the media. His picture goes up at eleven. Pull out all the stops on this one. Brandi, notify me the minute you have anything on those telephone messages. Shayla, I need you to look over the criminal logbooks. See if this asshole has been arrested in our precinct before.” He handed Antonio the picture. “You’ve got it.” “Call me if anything else comes up.” Dominic heard the door slam, signaling Antonio, Shayla, and Brandi’s departure. 38

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Three out the door, two more to go. Madison turned from him. “Raina, do you have to be at the university tonight?” “No. My classes don’t start until tomorrow morning.” Score one point for me. “It’s already nine, way past dark. I doubt Dominic would be leaving anytime soon,” Madison emphasized by throwing a look his way. “You can spend the night here. You can sleep with me, Dominic can have the couch.” Oh, baby, it’s going to take more than that to keep me from coming after you, Dominic thought as he met her look with a smirk. “No problem. I’ll get the extra sheets and pillows,” Raina replied as she headed down the hallway. “You’re welcome to stay also, Mateo, if you don’t mind sleeping on an air mattress,” Madison offered. “Gracias. As tempting as that offer sounds, I’m going to have to decline. I’m going to head down to the station and give our friendly commissioner an update. I’ll see everyone tomorrow. Adios. ” “Adios, Mateo.” Dominic waited until the sound of the door echoed through her apartment before asking, “Now where were we?” He wasn’t giving an inch. Not when she chose to test him in front of everyone. “Raina should be out here with the extra pillows and sheets soon. I’m going to take a shower,” Madison replied nervously, taking a step in the direction of the hallway. Her lips trembled slightly as her eyes flickered to his shaft before rising to his face. Dios, but he wanted to ground his cock against her heat, savoring the wetness before entering her. He envisioned so many things, like tasting her essence, shoving his face into her cunt until she orgasmed over and over again. But she chose to play the safe route and invite Raina to stay with her, knowing perfectly well that Mateo would have protected her with his life. Dominic reached out, grabbing her arm securely and hauled her to him. He could feel her breasts smashed against his chest as he bent and whispered for her ears alone, “We were in the middle of a game you chose to play willingly.” “My sister will be here…” “Don’t worry too much. I promise not to fuck you the first time, hermosa. Not when I want to taste your pussy more than anything else in this world.” **** The artist who drew the sketch captured him beautifully. He was tempted to not 39

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change his appearance, but he wasn’t finished with the hunt yet. A little blond coloring, a pair of sample contacts, a hat, and he’d be a new man. All they had was the picture, not the name. No. It would take them a while to find every Cesar Perez in the city, let alone the five boroughs. And when that time was up, he’d already have a new identity. He had hoped she wouldn’t have remembered the scar though. There was nothing he could do about that. He would just have to hope that the physical alterations would be enough. There was always the cell phone. The list she had there was quite impressive. He had been tempted more than once to contact and play with her family and friends, but he was too smart for that. The cops would trace him in seconds. The clipboard he had obtained from the plastic holder on her bed hadn’t contained any important information, like her address. But he did finally learn her name. Madison Haines. Ah, the name flowed over him like a fine blood-red wine. He could feel his cock hardening as the blood rushed to his groin. It had never been about the sex, but always about the kill. Occasionally, he would dabble with the sluts, maybe fuck them before sending them to hell. He could already envision himself bathing in Madison’s blood. Yeah, he was very willing to take this one slowly. He’d already hired a private investigator to get a hold of her address and other personal information. Fuck! But the rush of power was great. He felt like a fucking god. He loved playing with the bitches. Too many of them were interested in a rough neck, a man with a violent edge. Getting close to them was the easy part. But once he had his prey picked out, then the hunt would become the best. Some never knew what hit them, just like his darling Madison would never know.

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Chapter Nine

Madison threw a glance at the clock on her nightstand. The light of the moon shone through her curtains, casting a glow into her room. Raina snored lightly beside her, but Madison still couldn’t find her way to la-la land. Too many thoughts ran through her head along with too many worries. The killer would come after her again. It was only a matter of time before he found out where she lived. She desperately needed this to be over with now. Madison knew that Dominic and his team were doing everything they could, but still the threat was there. The killer would stalk her, thinking her a challenge, and Madison knew he wouldn’t stop until he had her life. Nightmarish thoughts plaguing her, Madison rose from the bed, careful not to awaken Raina. She opened the door, heading down the hallway and stopped at the opening to stare at Dominic. Wearing only jeans and looking totally scrumptious, he had the television on the news channel. Her gaze shifted from the tempting sight he presented, landing on the news anchor, a lovely woman with black hair. “I’m Leslie Van Buren reporting to you live from the fortieth precinct in Manhattan. Officials have a lead on the recent murders of Leeann Gainer and Dr. Craig Matthews. Though reports vary, police officials state that the murders are the work of a serial killer, connected somehow to past killings going as far back as ten years. The New York City area and its five surrounding boroughs have been put on a state of alert. Here is a sketch of the killer. If anyone has seen this man, do not confront him alone. He is considered highly dangerous and armed. Immediately dial your local precinct, or 911. Once again, I’m Leslie Van Buren for Fox news and we’ll have more on this story as well as an update from the police commissioner soon.” Madison forced her gaze to move from the killer’s picture plastered on the TV. His face would forever be etched into her mind and she doubted that she would be able to forget him. She glanced at Dominic. 41

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“You should be resting, Madison.” “I couldn’t sleep. I can’t seem to stop worrying,” she replied as she sat next to him. Oh, this was such a bad idea. Why couldn’t I be stuck with an ugly cop? Her gaze caught on the two silver hoop earrings he had dangling from his nipples. She could almost picture herself grabbing the silver along with his nipple, and licking them with her tongue. Her mouth watered at the tanned muscled skin. “It’s understandable. But you need your rest.” Madison shifted on the couch, seeking some sort of relief for her throbbing clit. “Why aren’t you asleep?” she asked, a little too huskily. “I was on the phone with the police commissioner, briefing him on the case.” “What did he say?” “Besides the regular bureaucratic bullshit, he thinks I should have them take you to a safe house.” “And what did you tell him?” “If I was doing this by the book, hermosa, you’d be in a safe house by morning. But nothing about this case will be by the book. That fucker killed my sister, ruining the light of my mother’s eyes. I’ll be damned if he gets you too,” Dominic growled, his hands tensing into closed fists. Madison felt the hurt and frustration radiating off him in waves. Maybe she had to consider he be reassigned, if only to save his sanity. “I can feel your pain, honestly I can. But perhaps it’s best that you let the FBI handle this?” Dominic clicked off the TV, half-turning to face her. “You’re not pushing me away, Maddy. It’s been ten years. I’m not so far gone in grief that I would make a mistake on the job.” “You think I’m telling you this because I doubt your abilities? This has nothing to do with your ability to do the job. Dominic, I can see the dedicated cop you are. I just don’t want to drag someone I’m beginning to care about into this mess.” Madison’s stomach dipped in nervousness. Dominic reached out and grabbed her waist, maneuvering her face to face, before hoisting her over and then placing her on top of his lap. “This is so against protocol,” Madison whispered as he bent forward, laying his forehead against hers. She could smell his breath, a warm spicy scent, firing up her blood in a rush of heat. “Querida, fuck the protocol,” he replied, before closing the last inches that separated them and taking her mouth in a mind blowing fiery kiss. 42

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Madison opened, accepting his tongue into her mouth. His flavor embedded itself into her senses, masculine warmth with heat and a tinge of spice. She felt her juices seeping into her shorts, and Madison moaned, pushing her pussy against his jeans, grinding herself against the rigid hardness of his cock. Her hips began to undulate, mimicking the way she wanted to fuck him, riding the burning frenzy of need that overtook her. His hands flew to her hips, halting her dance. “Hermosa, if we do this there will be no turning back,” Dominic growled softly into her ear. He’s asking for more than I can give. Deep down inside, Madison knew his statement had the implication of a future between them. And that should have halted her from moving forward. But it didn’t. She wasn’t going to listen to her conscience on this one. She was going to go with the fiery burn of desire she had felt for him since day one. Madison reached for the hem of her tank top, pulling the shirt over her head. She leaned in and rubbed her breasts against his pierced nipples. Dominic groaned in response, laying his head against her couch. “All I want to do is move forward,” Madison replied as she reached for his hands, and placed them on her chest. “Querida, I will give you what we both crave, and make no mistake, you are mine.”

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Chapter Ten

Dominic didn’t know what made him push her for a commitment. They had known each other for a little over a day, but he wanted to forge it into her mind that they were far from over. He wasn’t going to settle for a one-night stand. And he had reason to believe she was the type that didn’t trust easily, so Madison would be quick to push him away. But the sparks that flew between them couldn’t be denied. He could feel her pussy’s heat against the fabric of his jeans, and it took every ounce of control not to flip her over and fuck her like he wanted to. Dominic had a feeling that this first time it was important for her to be in charge. And if he was going to make a solid impression in her life, he would allow her to take the reins in the lovemaking this time. But first, he needed to taste her. He wanted to carve her taste into his senses, marking her as his. He pressed both of her nipples between the tips of his fingers, feeling the buds lengthen further. He could feel himself panting, salivating at the sight of her gorgeous breasts. His cock leaped as he envisioned himself cushioning his shaft between her tits. Dominic bent forward, giving in to temptation, taking a nipple into the heat of his mouth. Madison moaned, clutching his hair. He couldn’t wait any longer. Her scent filled the air, making his shaft harden further. “Rise up,” Dominic stated, a little too forcefully. He grabbed her by the waist, setting her in front of him, and pulled the ties to her shorts, indicating he wanted the material off. He unbuttoned his jeans, lifting his hips from the sofa and slid the pants down, pulling them from his body. Before throwing them to the floor, Dominic removed the condom from his back pocket, placing it beside him. The air sizzled with heat around them as he watched her slowly lower her shorts from her body, revealing a small narrow strip of brown hair. Dominic leaned over, fingering the soft curls before running his fingers through them. “Oh, Maddy, you are too fucking caliente.” He could feel her trembling as he stroked her pussy lips, drenching his fingers in 44

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her fragrant cream. But the devil inside of him wanted her to burn even more for him. Dominic scooted further up, sitting on the tip of the sofa, aligning his face right in front of her pussy. She moaned, arching herself closer to him. “Do you remember what I told you earlier, hermosa?” “What?” Madison muttered, totally engrossed in the way he caressed her. “Concentrate, querida,” he murmured. “Do you remember the promise I made, about wanting to eat that delicious pussy in front of me?” Don’t worry too much. I promise not to fuck you the first time, hermosa. Not when I want to taste your pussy more than anything else in this world. Oh, she remembered the words exactly. Madison swallowed, forcing herself to respond. “Yes.” He was driving her insane, not quite touching her where she needed it the most. Her pussy creamed further, wetting her thighs, scenting the air with her lust. She couldn’t stop her body from trembling in response. From her position, she couldn’t see too much of his cock, but she could see the mushroom-shaped head, a shade of dark brown. Oh, she would give anything if she could fall to her knees and take his cock into her mouth. But she wanted his lips more. She wanted to know what it felt like to be kissed down there, to have his tongue lick up all of her juices. Though she was no virgin, it wasn’t anything she had ever experienced. “And that’s what I’m going to do, querida. I’m going to eat you until you come into my mouth. And then I’m going to eat you some more. Now open up wide,” Dominic ordered, placing his hands on the inside of her thighs and spreading her legs apart. Dear God, what did I get myself into? Is he more than I could handle? Second thoughts flitted through her mind as she reached for his shoulders, balancing herself. Madison watched as Dominic took his first swipe, growling his approval as he tasted her cream. He slowly laved up her juices, licking at her lips before centering his mouth on her clit. She moaned, thoroughly aroused as he watched her and sucked her clit into his mouth. He teased her, running his tongue in circles, playing with her, until she couldn’t take it any longer and began to beg. “Please, Dominic.” “Please what, hermosa?” He lifted his head and she could see her juices drenching his lips, coating the hair on his chin. “I need you,” she moaned as she tightened her hands on his shoulders. “Say the words, querida. And I’ll give you what you need.” 45

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Emboldened, and wanting to sate the desire roaring through her body, Madison whispered, “Suck my clit.” Dominic’s eyes narrowed at her words, his hands tightening on her hips, before proceeding to do as she asked. Like an animal in heat, he shoved his entire face into her delicious cunt, growling in response to her taste and the way her scent went to his head. She was like fine liquor and he was getting drunk on her juices. The beast in him roared in approval as she arched her hips, and tried to smash her pussy into his face. Dios, he could live like this forever. Tasting her until she came and came again. But he gave her what she needed. He pursed his lips, surrounding her throbbing clit and sucked hard. Her nails bit into his shoulders, leaving marks against his skin. Fuck, she could mark him all she wanted because he was doing the same to her. Ruining her for any other man. Her body tightened, snapping ramrod straight as her orgasm flooded his tongue. Dominic lapped all that she gave him, high on her scent and flavor. He licked it all, and only stopped because he now needed to be inside her more than anything else in the world. The man had been given a god given talent. Her pussy still burned with need for him. The orgasm only took the edge off. She still needed him inside of her. Her clit resumed its throbbing. Christ, he’s like a dog with a bone, Madison thought as he gave her pussy one last lick and kiss. Madison stared, far from repulsed at the way her juices dripped from his lips. Dominic reached beside him, tearing open the latex and shielding his cock within seconds. She shoved his shoulders, silently letting him know she wanted him to lean back. He did. She climbed on top, spreading her knees wide, her wet pussy hovering just above his shaft. Madison took his cock, running her hands over its length, measuring the size of him with her fingers. He was so big, hard, and hot. She maneuvered him, placing the head against her clit, rubbing, and savoring the anticipation. She whimpered at the sensations, her eagerness turning the air thick with sexual intensity. Madison lowered herself. She felt the precise thick width of his shaft as her pussy spread open, allowing his head to enter her. There was a slight bite of pain, the pleasure hovering beyond as she stopped, torturing them both with her pace. But then Dominic grasped her hips, and began lowering her slowly. She gasped, 46

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sensations bombarding her as she accepted his length. The tips of his fingers dug into her skin, slightly painful but she couldn’t pay mind to it. Not when she had his steel pole halfway in already. “Bend down,” Dominic growled loudly. Madison braced her hands on his chest, bending down as he took her nipple into his mouth and sucked. The wet suction sent piercing shards of want through her as she began to move against him, feeling his throbbing cock within her. He was in all the way, and she could feel the tip of his head kissing her womb. “Dios, Maddy. You feel so tight…so fucking delicious,” he whispered against her ear. He raised her from his cock slowly. “Dominic, I need more,” she moaned as she licked his lips. Madison grabbed his neck and lowered herself back down. Her clit rubbed against his crisp hairs, sending friction like electric pulses into her womb. Her orgasm began, way deep in the pit of her stomach, driving her mad with the need to ride him hard. She began moving her hips, dancing to the tune of want. She couldn’t stop herself from moving faster, riding on the edge of desire, knowing that her orgasm was close…way too close. “Dominic, fuck me hard, now!” Madison screamed, knowing she needed that extra bite of pain to send her over. He didn’t fail her. Holding her hips in an iron-like grip, Dominic thrust into her like a man dying of need. He pounded hard, forcing her orgasm to come even faster, momentarily blinding her with its speed and strength. She could barely breath, but still managed to scream his name, the ecstasy too much and yet not quite enough. She arched her back as she came, tightening her thighs around him. For that single glorious moment, everything was right and perfect in the world. She had no worries. Dominic lifted his hips off the couch two more times, thrusting into her fiercely, before roaring his completion, and pouring his seed into her. **** The night provided an effective shield, hiding his figure from the patrol car parked in front of the house. The sun wouldn’t rise for another three hours, and that’s just the amount of time he needed to put an end to the two meddling cops parked in front of the home. Cesar pulled the hood over his hair, leaving his face free as he walked a half block to his destination, making sure his pace was slow so he wouldn’t call attention to himself. 47

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Cesar lay on the ground and belly crawled to the car. The windows were closed, the car turned on most likely because the air conditioning cooled the interior. It was their mistake. He suspected no one ever really thought he’d go after the father. He really didn’t want to, not when he wanted the daughter even more. But the hunt was important, and the cops were a tad to slow for the game. Cesar whipped the hand towel from his sweater pocket, effectively rolling it up into a ball. He placed it carefully into the exhaust, tucking all of it into the pipe. He set the alarm clock on his wristwatch. Now all he had to do was wait.

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Chapter Eleven

Madison dipped her head into the warm spray of water, hoping it would rub the scent of him from her body. She hadn’t slept a wink, but instead laid for most of the night in his arms, hearing him softly snore in satiated bliss. She shouldn’t have slept with him for so many different reasons. Why didn’t she listen to her conscience? Make no mistake, you are mine. Dominic had warned her, and still she allowed her basic desires to get the best of her. She didn’t need or want a relationship, but Madison knew Dominic wouldn’t settle for just one night. Still she wouldn’t regret the sex. Her body ached deliciously. The man had a divine way with his tongue and cock, leaving her longing for more of him. It would be so easy to call him into the bathroom so she could indulge herself. But there were too many things that needed to be done. She forced her mind to make a list of the most urgent. She had to be at work in about an hour. And she needed to call her father. That was something she had been dreading. Still, she needed to make sure he was okay. Madison soaped herself before rinsing under the spray. She washed her hair then conditioned it, combing out the snags with her fingers. She rinsed, stepping out of the spray to squeeze the water from her hair before turning the shower off. Quickly toweling off, Madison dressed and blow dried her hair. She was fully dressed and out of the bathroom in twenty minutes, tiptoeing past Dominic. She paused mid-step, admiring his chiseled form and the way the blanket clung to his muscled thighs. A vision of her kneeling beside him, waking him up properly, danced through her mind. But she moved, heading to the kitchen. Picking up the phone, she dialed her father’s number. “Hello?” he coughed into the phone. Raina had mentioned his health hadn’t been the same. “Dad, it’s Madison. How are you?” 49

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“It must be Christmas. I finally get a call from my daughter.” The sarcasm in his tone wasn’t lost on her, but she chose to ignore it. “Dad, there’s been some things going on that you should be made aware of.” “It couldn’t possibly have something to do with the New Jersey State police sending a patrol car to my home?” “Dad, please cut out the sarcasm. I witnessed a murder two nights ago. And now the man is after me.” “Where is Raina?” Yep, that about summed it up. No, are you okay, but where’s Raina? “Raina is fine. We’re both under protective custody. I just wanted to give you a call and let you know that we’re both fine.” “You know it wouldn’t hurt for you to call more often.” “You are absolutely right, Dad,” Madison conceded, emotion making her voice thick. “And once this is through you and I are going to have a long talk. A long talk that is over…” Madison heard the sound of a doorbell in the background. “The doorbell’s ringing. I think it’s the paperboy. I’ll talk to you later.” “Bye, Dad. I love you,” Madison whispered, two seconds after he hung up. “You’re up early.” Madison jumped, dropping the phone as she whirled around to find Dominic leaning against the entryway, clad only in his jeans. “Jesus Christ! Did you have to scare the crap out of me?” “Sorry about that.” “That’s fine,” she mumbled as she bent and picked up the phone. “Where are you headed off to?” “I have to be at work in about half an hour.” “I don’t think that’s a very good idea.” “Dominic, my life doesn’t stop because some psychopath has it in for me. I still have bills that need to be paid.” He walked slowly toward her, unnerving Madison with his close masculine presence. “We’re talking about your life here, Maddy. I’ll handle the bills.” She arched a brow at his arrogant tone. “I’ll handle my bills,” Madison emphasized. “Now if you’ll excuse me, I need to be on my way. Raina should be up soon. Tell her to be careful.” Dominic reached out, grabbing her arms, hauling her against his body. His hard 50

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cock dug into her stomach. “Dios, Maddy. If we were alone, I’d take the time to show you who the hell was in charge, by spanking that luscious ass red. Now pay close attention. I’m going to take a quick shower. You will wait for me here. Raina and I will drop you off at work.” Madison nodded, his threat turning her into a creamy puddle of desire. Dominic let her go, stalking out of the room. She could admit the arrogance was a turn-on to her. The strength in the way he held her, the fact that he always seemed to have a hard shaft when he was around her, triggered her sexual side. But he was asking for way too much of her. She would be controlled by no one. She was an independent woman, learning early to count on no one. Going to work in her own car wasn’t a big thing. She would be careful. Madison waited until she heard the bathroom door close before picking up her purse and walking out of the door. **** Cesar peered through the window. The white curtains were parted by an inch, effectively letting him view the old man speaking on the telephone. His alarm clock beeped, signaling the three hours were up. The cops would never awaken again. Cesar walked up to the door and rang the bell. He heard the old man’s muttered voice and then the shuffling of feet. The door opened slowly. Cesar took the advantage and slid his foot between the entry way and door. “What the hell do you want?” He smiled, the god like power he felt before a kill rushing through him hotly. ”There are many things in this world that I want, old man. And I shall begin my quest here,” he replied, shoving Madison’s father back, knocking him off his feet before he closed the door.

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Chapter Twelve

“Good morning, Madison. How was your weekend?” Glad for the interruption, Madison put the file she was reading on her latest case down, concentrating on her boss, Steven Hill. Physically, he reminded her a lot of her father with his stark white hair and still fit body. Steven sat on the office chair across from her desk. “It was like every other weekend. I got plenty of rest,” she replied, staring past him into the corridor so he wouldn’t see the lie for what it was. “Glad to hear that. I’ve put a new case on your desk.” Madison nodded, her gaze flying back to his. “Phillipe Buford is fifteen years old. His mother died five years ago in a car wreck. NYPD arrested his father on drug charges. During the search, they found child porn paraphernalia. Child Administration Services suspect he was abused. He’s currently under foster care, but they hired us to get him to talk. If he can sign an affidavit, the District Attorney can put the father away for a much longer time then the drug charges would bring him. The father’s made parole.” “How the hell did someone like that make parole?” “Who knows. Either someone bailed him out or the bastard’s loaded with green. The detectives wouldn’t give me that information.” “I’ll try to get Phillipe to talk. Did you schedule him for this morning?” “He just arrived. CAS will be by in an hour to pick him up. He’s scheduled to see you three times each week, until the boy heals. Or however far you can get with him. Cases like this make me physically sick, Madison.” “You’re not alone there, boss. Sometimes I’d like to escape from all of this. But I stay, hoping to make a difference...even if it’s a tiny one.” “You do good work, Madison. You’ve been with us for a while now. Some of the others are just here to be here, but you…you make that difference for them.” Madison swallowed, her eyes misting with tears. It wasn’t an easy job that’s for sure, but nothing in the world could pull her away. 52

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Steven rose. “I’ll stop by later. If you need me, I’ll be in my office.” Madison opened the file once again, staring at Phillipe’s photograph. He looked scared in the picture, his black eyes frighteningly huge, with a haunting look to his gaze. Weighing only one hundred pounds, Phillipe looked way too skinny for his size. A knock on her door disrupted her thoughts. She glanced up. Phillipe stood silently, waiting for her acknowledgement. “Good morning, Phillipe. I’m Madison Haines,” she stated, rising from her seat. She threw an arm around his shoulders, guiding him into her office before closing the door. “Have a seat, Phillipe.” He sat down quickly. Madison took her own seat. “Can you tell me something about yourself?” “Why should I talk to you?” he replied, anger evident in his tone. She stared at him, slowly counting ten seconds in her head before answering. It was a method she used when she needed to collect her thoughts. “I’m here to help you. You can tell me anything you want…anything. And I won’t judge you, I’ll just listen. It’s a lot I know to trust someone,” Madison stated as Dominic’s image came to mind. “But we can take this slow. I’ll be here whenever you need me.” Madison took one of her business cards, jotting down her home number. “Here.” She pushed the card to the end of her desk, hoping Phillipe would take it. He did. “You can reach me anytime.” “Are you for real?” “Yeah,” she laughed. “I’m for real. Let’s start with something easy. What kind of sports do you like?” “I don’t usually get out much. But when I can, I like to go over to the park and shoot some hoops.” “Are you any good?” “I can hold my own,” he replied cautiously. “The playoffs are coming up soon. I’m rooting for the Miami Heat.” “Shaq can hold his own.” “I think he can. He’s a pretty good player.” “What’s your favorite food?” “I remember when my mom was alive, she’d get paid every Friday and take me out to Pizza Hut. She knew just the way I liked it too, topped with extra pepperoni.” Madison couldn’t help but stare at him. There was a light to his eyes when he 53

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spoke about his mom. They were too much alike in more ways than one. “It’s a date.” “What is?” “You and me. You’re scheduled to see me tomorrow afternoon. We’ll go to lunch, and stuff our faces.” “Are you really for real?” Phillipe repeated with a surprised tone in his voice. Madison laughed. “Trust me. I’m for real.” **** He was going to strangle her. Better yet, he’d beat her tempting ass until she couldn’t sit for a week. And he was just the man to show her who the hell was boss. Dominic paced the living room, waiting for Mateo to arrive. “My sister is fine,” Raina stated. “She’s just at work.” “Your sister needs to know who sets the rules.” “If that’s your way of getting to her heart, I doubt you’ll succeed.” Dominic turned, facing the spitfire’s sister. “She will not put her life in jeopardy,” he bit out through clenched teeth. The doorbell rang, halting his anger and the words he was more than ready to say. Dominic opened the door, relieved that Mateo arrived so quickly. “Watch her,” he growled as he grabbed his keys. “Don’t let her out of your sight for one second. I’m going after Madison.” He walked out of the door without waiting for Mateo’s reply. He put the key into the ignition, starting the engine as his cell phone rang. “Detective Morales, here.” “It’s Antonio. We’ve got major trouble.” “What’s up?” “Got a call from the New Jersey State Police. They found Madison’s dad about twenty minutes ago. Fucker sent Madison a warning by cutting him up. He’s in intensive care. The two cops sent to watch him didn’t make it.” “Fuck! I want you and Brandi to get down there now.” “Already on my way. Marcos will be at the station in about two hours.” “I’ll be there.” Dominic hung up the cell, tossing the phone into the passenger seat. He drove like a demon, racing after the one woman he was intent on saving. **** Madison rose from her seat, hearing the loud sirens through her first floor 54

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window. She peered out, clearly watching an angry Dominic jumping out of his car and racing into the building. She turned from the window. “Phillipe, our session is over today. I’ll see you on Thursday.” “Bye, Ms. Haines.” “Call me Madison.” “Okay,” Phillipe replied as he opened the door just as Dominic knocked. Phillipe threw her an unsure glance before exiting. “You have absolutely no idea how angry I am with you at this moment,” Dominic growled softly as he closed the door. Madison swallowed nervously, taking a step back in her office as he walked closer to her. “But that is something we are going to discuss later.” Dominic walked until there was no space available for her to move. He caged her in with his arms and she could see the anger leaving his eyes as his warm breath reached her nostrils. “There’s something I need to tell you, querida. Your father’s in the hospital. We need to head down to New Jersey.” The urge to cry began at her nose. It was an odd tingling feeling, a sign that she would erupt into tears. Her eyes misted, struggling to ask the question she feared. If anything had happened to her father, she would never forgive herself. She was just as stubborn as he was when it came to holding silly grudges. “Is he alive?” “He is alive, hermosa. Pack up your things. We will be heading down now.” **** Surprisingly, there was no traffic, paving the way for them to arrive at the hospital quickly. Madison inquired about her father’s whereabouts at the front desk. The receptionist directed her to the outside emergency room where a nurse was already waiting for them. “I’m Madison Haines. I’m inquiring about my father, Frank Haines.” “Hello. My name is Millie Constantine.” “Can I see him?” “He’s still in surgery,” Millie replied. “He was stabbed once in the chest. Doctors were able to repair the inside tissue. We have our finest surgeon closing him up now. Miraculously, the knife missed his lung by an inch. He will be in surgery for another 55

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forty minutes. Please have a seat in the waiting area and as soon as he’s out I’ll let you know.” Madison nodded, her throat too closed up with emotion to speak any words. Dominic silently let her know he was there for her, his arm clasped tightly around her waist. She turned, burying herself in his arms, seeking comfort from the pain echoing in her heart. “Calmate, querida. He will be fine,” Dominic crooned into her ear. It was a while before she could stop herself from the uncontrollable sobbing threatening to consume her. She felt trapped in a nightmare that continued to grow worse and worse. There was too much unsaid between her and her father. They had a second chance, and as soon as he was up to it, she would speak to her dad, putting the past behind them forever. And Dominic was still here, doing more than what the job called for. The act brought out feelings in her she wouldn’t acknowledge now. Instead she settled for a few simple words, admitting in some part her gratefulness. “Thank you, Dominic, for being here. I know you don’t really have to be.” “I had no intention of being anywhere else. Why don’t we go in the waiting area?” Madison nodded. Dominic continued to hold her as they walked to the waiting area, comforting her with his presence. She sat down just as Raina and Mateo stormed into the room. “Madison, how is he?” Raina cried, her tears drenching her face. Her heart broke at the sight. “He’s okay,” Madison whispered as she nodded. “Raina, honestly, he’s fine.” “Are you sure? Have you seen him?” “I spoke with the nurse. They’re closing up the wound now. He’s going to be fine. I know he is. You know how strong Dad is.” Madison reached for Raina’s trembling hand. “Try to stay calm and focused. There isn’t any man in this world who would fight their way out of a hospital just to grumble at us,” she stated softly. Raina laughed. “You’re right.” “What’s next?” Madison asked Dominic. He sat on the other side of her, his warm strength giving her courage. “Antonio called me on the way down here,” Mateo interjected. “Seems the killer left a message.” “What was it?” Madison muttered, clutching Dominic’s hand. 56

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“Maybe we should wait until Antonio’s done at the crime scene?” Dominic softly suggested, throwing an angry look at Mateo. “No!” She leaped from her chair, anger rushing through her fiercely. “This concerns me and my family. You will let me know what you’ve found, and what is going to happen. I won’t be kept out, Dominic.” Dominic wanted nothing more than to hold her in his arms and shield her from everything. Dios, he would give anything if he could take her from this, somewhere safe, where no one would ever harm her. He fisted his hands as his body tightened with need. His heart raced with urgency, and still he backed down, giving her what she asked for. “What was found?” He disregarded the disgruntled look Mateo threw his way. “A note indicating Madison was next.” “That’s not surprising,” Madison replied as she sat back down. Mateo fidgeted, looking away to the window. There was something he wasn’t telling him. And if that was the case, he was purposely hiding it from Madison. “Maddy, sit with Raina. Mateo and I are going to get some coffee. Can I bring you ladies some?” Madison nodded. “We’ll take two coffees black.” Dominic turned, heading out as Mateo followed. He waited until they were in the cafeteria before asking, “What did you really find?” “The warning was written with her father’s blood.” His stomach churned at the thought of what her father went through. “I’ve had enough of this shit, Mateo. He wants to play then we’re going to give him all we’ve got. Have everyone meet me at the precinct by six. I want Marcus in by then. I want updates from everyone and anyone who’s working this case.” “Got it.” **** Cesar grinned as he drove back to New York, following the detective’s unmarked vehicle. He kept his distance at a reasonable pace, behind two regular cars, knowing one false move and his cover would be blown. The old man had been a necessary means to an end, though he did find some enjoyment in leaving that message with his blood. It hadn’t been a first for him. He often bathed himself in the precious fluid, before ending the victim’s life. But it had been a first in letting the old man live. It was all intentional. The old man didn’t matter. His daughters did. 57

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Chapter Fourteen

Madison turned the key, opening the door to her home. The doctors were optimistic. Her father would recover. She clung to that knowledge desperately, knowing as her dad lay on that bed, there could still be a happy future between them. Raina had cried seeing him so pale and listless. But Madison knew inside beat the heart of a fierce man. “Do you want something to drink?” Dominic hovered behind her. Madison felt his welcoming heat searing into her. She was tempted to turn and bury herself in his arms. Instead, she walked into her living room and dropped her purse on the coffee table. “There’s a bottle of brandy on top of the refrigerator. I’m going to change out of these clothes. Be back in five minutes.” Madison entered her bedroom. She removed her shoes, digging her toes into the soft beige Berber carpet. Removing all of her clothes quickly, Madison slipped on a pair of pink velvet shorts and a matching tank. She removed the bothersome clip from her hair, letting the waves fall around her shoulders. Dominic walked into her bedroom, two liquor-filled shot glasses in one hand and the bottle in the other. She grabbed the glass, quickly downing the drink. The rush of liquid burned her throat, bringing tears to her eyes. It took a couple of seconds for her to regain her composure before walking to her bed, purposely swaying her hips seductively. She threw her pillows to the foot of the bed, before sitting with her back to the headboard. “Have a seat, Dominic.” She smiled at the way he arched an eyebrow as if he was silently questioning her request. He walked slowly to her and sat close, his jean-clad thigh hitting her naked leg, the rough abrasion sending goose bumps throughout her body. “Pour me another one.” “Are you sure, querida?” “I’m fine,” she replied as she grabbed the bottle from his hand and poured herself 58

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a drink. The brandy went down a little easier, sending pleasing warmth and a tingling sensation throughout her body. Dominic lifted his glass, swallowing his drink. He took the bottle and shot glass from her hand, placing it on her nightstand. “What are we going to do next?” “When it comes to your safety, hermosa, there is no we.” “What the hell does that mean?” “It means you were supposed to wait for me this morning, so I could take you to work. You could have been killed, querida, over a simple thing as obedience.” Madison felt her pulse beat rapidly as her stomach fluttered at his words. She was too aware of his nearness, of the way his shirt molded to his body, his half turned body tilted toward hers. You look good enough to eat. That’s what she really wanted to tell him as she watched his cock harden, tightening his jeans. Instead she replied, “I’m not about to rearrange my life for you or anyone.” She saw every detail, the way his nostrils flared and his eyes narrowed at her words. She was perfectly aware that she was baiting him. But she didn’t want to play the meek ‘yes I’ll do as you say’ role. Not yet anyway. Not when she wanted to see how this would play out. “I’ve been too gentle with you. Te voy ha enseñar como yo quiero jugar,” Dominic replied softly as he reached out and ran his finger over the edge of her shorts. I will show you how I want to play. Her clit throbbed at the roughness to his skin along with the subtle warning in his words. There was no other way to describe it. He reminded her of a jaguar, sleek and tense, muscles tightening before attacking. And that’s exactly what he did. Adrenaline pumping, firing up her blood, she was now faced down, splayed across his thighs, his hand running over her ass. His arm tightened around her, holding her securely. “Dominic, what are you doing?” And please don’t stop. Madison could feel her juices wetting her thighs, a primal response to his dominance. “You have no choice when it comes to your safety. You will learn to obey me, querida. And I will do anything to enforce that one simple rule.” She heard the tear of her shorts, before the full impact of what he had done hit her. He ran his palm along her naked ass then dipped his hand between her legs, running his fingers along her slit. 59

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“We can discuss this,” she moaned heatedly. Whack. “There will be no discussions when it comes to your life, hermosa.” Whack. The bite of pain with her arousal sent her close to the edge of a climax she knew would never leave her the same. “Oh god, Dominic, please don’t stop,” she screamed, giving up all pretense of fighting him. Whack. “I have no intention of stopping, querida. I need something from you. I need your promise to obey me in everything, at least until the investigation is over. After the case is done with, you can disobey all you want. I will take great pleasure in punishing your luscious ass, hermosa,” he groaned loudly. Madison purred, sounding like a cat in heat. She didn’t care. All she could feel was Dominic and his rock solid cock against her hip. Whack. “Don’t take too long, querida. I’m a man hanging on my last control.” His blood felt hot, his cock on the verge of exploding as she hummed sexily. Dominic held on, needing to hear the words, assuring him that she would obey when it came to her safety. But his control was tenuous. Her sexy ass was a lovely shade of red. Her squirming kept jolting his dick, sending a rush of fierce need through him. He moved his hand, stroking her pussy, rejoicing in the way her cream coated his skin and scented the air. “I’ll obey,” she whispered softly. It was exactly what he had been waiting for. Dominic grabbed her by the waist and then rose from the bed. He turned, placing her on the red satin-covered comforter. He stripped off his clothes quickly, taking his shaft in hand, stroking the length, easing the pressure off slightly. “Take the shirt off, Madison.” He needed to see her totally naked, embed her sexy body into his memory. Madison sat, quickly removing the tank top. “Lay back, hermosa. Bend your knees. Let me see that delicious cunt I’ve become addicted to.” She followed his orders a little too beautifully. Madison lay back with a wicked smirk as she opened her legs, then slowly moved her hands to her pussy, spreading herself open. 60

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“Is this what you wanted to see?” He had intentions of savoring the moment. He wanted to lick his way up her body, play with her breasts. But it was as if his mind and body were two separate entities. He couldn’t stop himself from moving forward and placing the head of his cock against her sopping wet slit. Dominic groaned as he rubbed the tip from top to bottom, bathing his shaft in her slickness. Madison wrapped her legs around his hips and pushed, using her strength to embed his head into her pussy. He stopped her, the feel of her wetness sending warnings to his brain. He tightened his hands on her thighs. “Dios, querida, I don’t have any condoms.” Madison groaned softly. “It doesn’t matter to me, Dominic. I’m on the pill and I’m clean.” “Hermosa, I don’t know how long I will be able to hold out, because I want you too fucking badly. You hold on nice and tight,” he growled, hefting her legs higher on his back. He pushed forward, slowly entering, enjoying the way her pussy gripped his cock. Her hot wet juices eased the way, but he purposely kept his pace slow. He didn’t want these sensations to ever end. Finally he was all the way in, hitting her womb with the top of his shaft. He pulled back, shafting her deeply, loving the way her muscle spasms clenched him. “I love the way you fuck me,” she moaned softly. “So hard and deep, Dominic. I’m in heaven.” His heart raced at her words. She affected him like no other woman. “Querida, you are mine,” he whispered. He bent, intending to use his mouth to portray the way he was feeling. His fingers tightened on her skin, probably leaving a mark, but he didn’t care. He wanted her marked all over, to show the world that she was his. He anchored her hips, placing his mouth on her lips. She opened up to him, swirling her tongue around his then sucking it, inflaming his senses further. He groaned, eating at her mouth as he shafted her thoroughly. He fucked her deep, hard and relentlessly. He wanted it to last…needed the fucking to last. But then she screamed into his mouth, her cat-like nails digging into his shoulders as her pussy contracted, sending rippling sensations throughout his shaft. His release came rushing forward in a blinding fiery tomb of ecstasy. He roared her name, feeling his seed pour out of him as her pussy continued to milk his shaft. 61

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Chapter Fifteen

“You are amazing,” Madison stated as she ran her fingers through his heated chest. She leaned forward, licking his pierced nipple. The bud tightened as she continued to swirl her tongue around it. His cock, half-erect, was suddenly at full mast. Her pussy ached pleasantly and she wanted more of him. She laid her head against his chest, feeling his heart race as she reached down and touched his cock, stroking the length with her fist. He was wide, her fingers not able to close around his shaft. “Querida, if you continue this, I will have to fuck you and the next time I have you, I intend to do it all night long.” Madison lifted her head, placing her hand under her chin. She stared into his eyes, the color of onyx flaming with desire. “What’s wrong with now?” He turned her suddenly, flipping her onto her back as he aligned their bodies chest by chest, his hard cock digging into her stomach, sending a sharp arousal to her heated pussy. “Get dressed,” he replied, placing a quick kiss on her lips, before rolling off of her. “We’re heading to the police station. I have a meeting that I cannot miss and that means you are coming with me.” “Dominic, I can stay here. You have a police car out front.” Madison squirmed as Dominic reached out and grabbed her wrist. He pushed her arms above her head, holding her tightly. He lowered his mouth to her ear, nipping her lobe before whispering, “Do we have to go through this again, querida? You are coming with me.” “I suppose there’s no point in arguing with you?” He grinned, his white teeth shining brightly. “No point whatsoever, hermosa.” The cool conditioned air swirled, chilling her as Dominic abruptly rose and proceeded to dress. Madison forced her relaxed muscles to move. She rose, walking over to the closet, at the same time, noticing the black duffel bag by his feet. “By the way, where did you get the change of clothes?” 62

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“I always carry a change of clothing in the trunk of my vehicle, amor. I never know when a case will have me out all night,” he replied, lowering his voice to a sexy deep tone. The sound of his voice sent pulses of need throughout her body. Madison pulled on a pair of shorts. Bending over, she purposely gave him a direct view of her ass as she bent and tied her tennis shoes. “You are tempting me beyond reason,” he growled as he grabbed her hips and aligned her ass with his cock. Madison laughed, rising from her bent position and pulling her shirt over her head. Turning over, she snuggled against the heat of his embrace. “If I tempted you that much, we’d be in bed by now.” “Don’t start,” Dominic replied as he slapped her ass playfully. “We’ll have plenty of chances to be in bed. Right now, we have to be on our way.” “Okay,” she murmured as her mind began to imagine scenes of them, tangled in sheets. “Since you’re going to be in a meeting, I’ll grab my briefcase. I have a new case I need to start working on.” **** Dominic left his office, casting a quick glance at Madison who sat on a guest chair. Her head was buried in one of her files, a new abuse case. He closed the door and headed down to the conference room. The door was already opened, and seated at the large round table were Antonio, Shayla, and Brandi but no Mateo. “Where’s Mateo?” Dominic asked the group. “He called me as he was leaving New Jersey. He mentioned having engine trouble and was going to have a mechanic take a look at it,” Antonio replied. “How long ago was this?” “About two hours ago. “ Dominic nodded just as his peripheral vision caught Marcos entering the room. He took his time to survey everyone who was there seated, acknowledging Dominic with a nod of his head. “Have a seat,” Dominic stated, indicating one of the available chairs. Marcos took the offered chair. “Thank you. It’s been a long time.” Dominic sat down across from him, suddenly tired and weary. Ten years had passed since he had worked with Marcos on the murder of his sister. “It has. What do you have for me?” he asked Marcos impatiently. 63

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“I’ve been poring over the files. What you have is a very dangerous man in our midst, detective.” “Tell me something I don’t know,” Dominic replied. “You are here because you are simply the best.” The remark wasn’t intended to boost his ego. Marcos was the best in his field of work. “Let’s get to the crux of the matter then,” Marcos replied, before continuing. “Your forensics team did a very good job in assessing almost every area of the crime. But of course my job is to give you an idea of what type of person the killer is. Notice the knife wounds are cut from left to right, hitting the jugular each and every time with exact precision,” he stated, placing pictures of the victims in front of Dominic. “Now notice the stab wound on Frank Haines. The wound is one inch above the lung and one inch below the heart, effectively missing both arteries. It proves that the killer knew where to stab. And if that wasn’t enough to convince you that our psychopath is in the medical profession, take a look at Dr. Craig Matthews. He was stabbed in the heart, dead center.” “We’re dealing with a fucking psychopath who’s in the medical profession?” Antonio replied harshly. “That or someone who works in the funeral business,” Marcos acknowledged. “He’s very adept at what he does. He’s obsessed with his work and pays great attention to detail. The murdering of females hints that some woman in his past hurt him greatly. Off the bat, I’d say it was his mother.” “What else do you have?” Dominic asked as he took notes. “The scar on his face. Let’s say he’s a doctor. Why not have plastic surgery? He leaves the scar as a reminder to something that happened in his past. I think it connects with his mother. At some point the killer was either hurt greatly by her death or the mother hurt him in some irreversible way.” Dominic nodded, his mind already working out the new angles. “Antonio, what have you found on Cesar Perez?” “We’ve narrowed the field to about ten men who have the same name and live in the city. We’ve eliminated them by checking out their alibis. Some of them were airtight, making our job simple. Others not. Now that Marcos has given us more information, we can check each of the men that’s left and see who’s in the funeral or medical profession.” His head shot up quickly. “This guy is local?” Dominic asked. “We believe he is or has been living here for several years now. We’re also sorting through hundreds of phone calls of people proclaiming they’ve seen this man. It’s time consuming, but we’ve got to sort out the weirdoes from the normal ones,” Antonio 64

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replied. “The hospital surveillance tapes match the description Madison gave us,” Brandi chimed in. “The news stations have been contacted with the updated photo. We’ve also gone through the calls made to the hospital that day. Our department confirmed a male inquiring about a woman fitting Madison’s description. We traced the caller id number to a payphone just ten blocks from the hospital. ” “Did you send a patrol car to the area?” Dominic asked Antonio. “We have a couple of men on foot asking questions.” “Anything on the jurisdiction warrant?” “The warrant came through. We should have the information on the buyer or buyers of the knife in about two hours,” Brandi replied as she rose from her chair. “This could be just the break we need. I’m heading back to the office now. As soon as I know, you guys will.” Dominic nodded. “Is there anything else you need before you write up your report, Marcos?” “I don’t do this shit anymore, Dominic” Marcos replied. “But you know why I’m here. I leave nothing unsolved. This is where I’m staying if you need me.” Marcos reached into his pocket, handing Dominic his business card. “I’m sure you heard rumors of what I do now. The system doesn’t work for me anymore. If you need anything, give me a call.” Dominic stared as Marcos rose from his seat. He didn’t let himself think of what Marcos had gone through. Losing someone you love could tear your heart into shreds and it seemed Marcos had never allowed himself to heal. “I appreciate everything you’ve done. The same goes for me. If you ever need anything, I’m there. Adios, Marcos.” **** Madison closed Phillipe’s file. The case was going to be a hard one. She was the first step CAS took when protecting a child. At such a young age, he was already a tormented soul. It was going to be a long road filled with grief and agony. At some point and time she would have to call in a psychiatrist for further treatment to help him cope with the death of his mother, let alone the shit his father put him through. Her stomach heaved at the thought. It was times like this that she envisioned cutting the dicks off of perverts who got their kicks harming children. She placed the file back in her briefcase and rose from the chair, massaging the cringing pain in her back as she moved to the window. 65

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Children were running around at a park across the street, their parents sitting on benches looking on. She doubted there was any other park safer in New York with a police station right across the street. She whirled around at the sound of the door opening. Dominic stalked inside, closing the door behind him. “Are you okay?” “I’m fine…just a little tense,” he replied as he sat on the chair. “Just a little,” she teased. “It looks like you’re always tense. Let me help you relax a little.” She placed her hands on his shoulders, feeling the muscle tightening underneath. “How did the meeting go?” she asked as she continued to move her hands. “Did you find out anything new?” “I met with Marcos Semite.” “The profiler?” “Ex-profiler. He worked on my sister’s case ten years ago. He came as a favor to me. He thinks the killer is a doctor by the accuracy of the stab wounds.” “A certifiable nutcase,” Madison replied, feeling some of the tension leave his muscles. “That’s putting it nicely. Dios, Maddy, you have a gift with your sexy hands.” “Hey, I have a wonderful suggestion,” Madison stated, pushing his chair around. Dominic placed his hands on her hips as she stepped between his legs. She played with the collar of his shirt, mesmerized with the smooth glimpse of skin on top. “Let’s go have a nice dinner…forget about this place, just for a little bit.” “Only if you get to use those sexy hands on me later on,” he replied with a wicked grin. “I have no problem with that, hot stuff.”

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Chapter Sixteen

Oh god, I hope I do this right. Madison almost laughed at the thought. But it wasn’t every day that she wanted to go down on her…What are we exactly? She contemplated the idea. Were they even a couple? A few nights of hot steamy sex didn’t scream commitment. She pushed the thoughts back, eyeing the tight black jeans encasing his muscled thighs. She had enough time to figure out what they were later on. Her pussy got wet, drenching her panties from just staring at him. Dominic drove from the restaurant, a relaxed look crossing his face. The Italian eatery had served the best lasagna with French bread. Too starved to even talk, they had both wolfed down their food in what she was sure had to be a record time. “Want to guess one of my fantasies, Dominic?” Madison asked as she scooted over to him. She placed her hand on his thigh as the muscle hardened. She smiled as he swallowed, then tensed. “Dios Maddy, this isn’t something we should be discussing while I’m driving.” “I think it’s a perfect time to let you in on a little secret,” she whispered as she caressed his hardening shaft through his jeans. “I fantasize about sucking you.” Madison stroked him as his hands tightened on the wheel, his knuckles turning white with the force. She slowly pushed the zipper down, excitingly aware of his muscled body. For a cop, he looked good enough to eat. He should be gracing the covers of GQ. Instead, he wanted to serve his country and make a difference in the world, just like her. They had enough in common, besides their sexual appetites. She dipped her hands into his jeans, instantly noticing he had gone commando. Her nipples tightened as she touched the hot velvety smooth length. “I have visions of kneeling before you and draining you dry.” The car suddenly swerved to the left, forcing Madison face level with his shaft. Just where she wanted to be. She felt when the car stopped, but she moved on, slipping her tongue out and licking the head of his cock. 67

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“Fuck, Maddy. I’m going to paddle your ass for being so damn naughty,” Dominic groaned. Dominic laid the driver’s seat back as he arched his hips, pushing his jeans further down, and she jolted with the movement. Murmuring her surprise, Madison laved his heated flesh then took him into her mouth. He growled, pushing a hand into her hair and instantly taking control of the sucking. She didn’t mind him taking the reins. It was more than a sexual fantasy for her. She craved him and knew his dominant side would always seek out her submissive one behind closed doors. Not to say that she didn’t have dreams of tying him down and riding him until he came inside of her. Just the thought sent flutters through her stomach. She reached down with her other hand, taking his sac into her grip and teased him. He shifted upward, bringing his cock into her heated throat. She purred, loving the way he controlled the situation. His pre-cum dripped into her mouth. The taste of him excited her further and she could feel her cream pouring out like a river as she bobbed her head up and down. Madison sucked harder as she sought the sensitive skin underneath his balls. He groaned loudly. Bingo! She pressed as he growled and pushed his staff even further, fucking her mouth now heatedly. She needed him, wanted him with a fierce ache. The man drove her beyond her boundaries, and this was just one of the acts she fantasized doing with him. Her jaw began to ache, but she continued. She wanted him to remember this as the best fucking blowjob he ever had. “Fuck, Maddy. I’m about to come. If you don’t want it in your mouth, move now!” How thoughtful of him. But she wanted his taste more than anything. Her only response was to tighten her mouth around him. He shouted her name loudly as his shaft bumped the back of her throat. His salty essence came pouring out, forcing her to gag. But she controlled her breathing, swallowing quickly as his taste and smell embedded itself into her senses. She felt him release her hair then grab her around the waist, hauling her against his body. “Querida mía, you are amazing. When this is all over, we are going to have a long talk about our future,” he stated, before placing a kiss on her lips. Madison opened, just as he used his tongue to trace her lips. The fiery kiss sent shards of arousal throughout her body. She moaned, pushing her hands under his t-shirt, running her hands over his chest, wanting more, needing to get closer to him. She pulled 68

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the shirt over his head, immediately latching onto his pierced nipple. She sucked, playing with the hoop and licking at his sweat-glistened skin. Dominic pushed her shorts aside and in one hard swoop, he entered her. She bit back a shout as the head of his shaft bumped her womb. Madison used her legs to maneuver herself, riding his cock with a ferocious need. His hands gripped her thighs tightly. Her clit rubbed against his skin, heightening her ecstasy further. The orgasm came in a blinding rush, forcing her to melt against him. She screamed his name as her pussy clenched, clasping his cock tightly. The throbbing length pulsed once before flooding her with his seed. **** Where the hell was she? Morning had come too soon. Here she was sitting at work, debating on whether she should cancel her appointment with Phillipe, when she was truly worried about Raina. Dominic had dropped her off at work with instructions not to leave without him. He told her Mateo hadn’t checked in. Which meant neither had Raina since she was with him. Dominic swore he would find them by the end of the day. It really sucked. She needed to be here for Phillipe. Canceling an appointment with a child that needed her was the last thing she wanted to do. But Raina was missing…and her heart told her she was in trouble. Madison picked up her phone and dialed the foster home Phillipe was currently staying at. It rang twice before a knock on her front door had her hanging the phone back in its cradle. Phillipe entered, looking gaunt and haggard. “Phillipe, what’s wrong? You’re here early.” “I couldn’t sleep last night. Ms. Haines…” “Call me Madison.” “Madison, I know we were going out today to eat pizza. But do you think we can leave now and maybe grab some orange juice instead?” “Sure. There’s a coffee shop across the street from here. I’m pretty sure they have orange juice. Let me grab my purse.” Madison picked up her purse, placed her new cell phone inside of her suit jacket and walked out of her office, followed by Phillipe. They left the building, walking down the street to the quaint little café. 69

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“Phillipe, why couldn’t you sleep last night?” Madison asked as they neared the corner of the street. She tilted her head to the right, noticing a black van in the alleyway but glanced away quickly as soon as he spoke. “You seem like such a nice lady. I’m sorry,” he babbled incoherently. They both stopped at the stop sign. “I’m glad you think I’m a nice lady, Phillipe. I hope you feel comfortable enough to speak to me about anything.” “I’m so sorry.” “What do you keep apologizing for?” she whispered as she felt a sense of dread swirl in her mind. “For this,” he replied as he shoved her hard into the alley. She tried to stop herself from falling, but she teetered on her two-inch heels before landing against the concrete floor. She tried to scream her rage as she saw a handkerchief fly down, right before it covered her nose and mouth. Madison fought, digging her nails into the hand that held her. He held on to her tightly, and at one point she thought she would suffocate. But death wouldn’t claim her that easy. Her vision blurred as the hand that held her released her nose by a margin for her to inhale whatever smell was on that cloth. The darkness pulled her under, bringing her to the mercy of the man intending to kill her.

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Chapter Seventeen

Dominic entered the police station, heading straight for his office. Antonio was already there waiting for him. “I need updates, amigo. Where the hell are Mateo and Raina?” “Still no sign of them. A patrol car just found their vehicle ten minutes ago on the last exit of the George Washington Bridge. We’re prepping a team to send down there now. We’ve also got the information on the warrant.” “What’s up?” he asked as he closed the door. “Brandi just came in with her file. She finally got the names of the buyers on the Gurkha Kukri hunting knife. We have three people who bought this particular knife in the past ten years. All three are living in New York. Their names are Tom Franklin, Tony Montes and a Phillipe Buford.” He tensed, his hand automatically checking for his weapon. “What the hell did you just say?” “I said their names…” “Phillipe Buford,” he whispered as terror threatened to freeze him to the spot. “You know him? Who is he?” “Madre de dios, Antonio! He’s a patient Madison was scheduled to see today.” Dominic picked up his phone and quickly dialed her office number. After a few rings, the call went straight to voicemail. He slammed the phone back in its cradle and dug into his pocket, searching for the card Marcos had given him. “Gear up fully. We’re heading out to Madison’s work place.” Antonio nodded as Dominic dialed Marcos’s number. “Marcos.” “Dominic here. Madison’s missing.” “What do you need?” “Meet me in front of Hartford House. It’s between...” “I know where it is. See you there in fifteen minutes,” he replied before hanging up. 71

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**** With her eyes closed, Madison tried to move her arms and her legs. The bite of hard rope digging into her skin shocked her. Madison waited until the ringing in her ears died down before opening her eyes. She opened them slowly, immediately biting back the scream at what she saw. Raina’s head drooped down, slightly swaying from side to side. It was clear to Madison that she was unconscious. Madison moved her gaze to the ropes binding her sister. Raina was tied down exactly like herself, on a wooden crucifix. The base of the crucifix was held down with a metal plank. Madison stared in horror at Raina's shirt, clinging to her arms in pieces. From where she stood she could see several places on Raina’s arms that were cut. Right alongside her was Mateo, who stood staring at her with a blank look. Raina and Madison were two feet apart from each other, but even from that distance Madison could tell he’d been drugged too. “Mateo, snap out of it,” she whispered, not wanting to be heard by anyone but him. She could see him struggling with whatever they gave him. His eyes kept closing, his arms straining in an attempt to battle the drug. “Madison, what the h--hell are you doing here?” “Phillipe, my patient,” she sobbed. Don’t fucking lose it now, Madison. Don’t you dare fucking lose it now. She closed her eyes, gathering her strength before answering. “Probably the same way you got here. How long has Raina been out?” “Carajo, a couple of hours. She wouldn’t stop screaming. I tried, Maddy… I tried to divert his attention to me. But the son of a bitch wouldn’t have it.” “Did he…?” Oh god, she couldn’t even say the words. Her stomach clenched as bile rose up. She breathed deeply, instead concentrating on a way of escape. Mateo shook his head. “No, he didn’t rape her. Raina was only awake for about an hour. He drugged us before he left again.” “Where are we?” she asked as she looked around the room. It was a large dark and damp room. She could smell the mold clinging to the walls. A pile of rotted wood was stacked in one corner and cases of beer in another. The only light fixture was an old chandelier attached to the filthy ceiling. Mateo tilted his head to the corner, “I think we’re in a warehouse or an abandoned loft.” “We’ve got to get out of here,” Madison whispered as she tugged on the rope. 72

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“I’ve been messing with this knot, before he drugged me. I was able to loosen myself a little, but not enough to get out.” “And you won’t be getting out,” a voice whispered. Madison whirled her head to the sound of the voice. Phillipe came out from the darkened corner. His eyes were almost too big for his face, rounded in fear. “Phillipe, what the hell is going on?” “I’m so sorry, but I had no other choice.” “We all have choices in life, Phillipe. It’s what we do with those choices that matters. Why am I here?” “My father wanted to see you.” Madison gasped, fear tightening the muscles throughout her body as her mind worked out who his father was. “Your father is Cesar?” Phillipe nodded his head. “That’s not his real name. His real name is Charles Buford, but they are the same.” “Oh god, Phillipe. What have you done?” Madison replied harshly, her voice thick with emotion. “I had no choice,” he whispered softly. “I don’t believe that. I won’t believe it. You have a choice, Phillipe. Get us out of here before your father comes back. He’s going to kill my sister and everyone else in this room.” “No--no. He told me he just wanted to see you.” “That’s bullshit and you know it. He’s killed women before, Phillipe. Your father is not a sane man.” “He promised he wouldn’t hurt you.” “He’s fucking hurt you before and you’re his son,” she shouted. “Imagine what he’ll do to my family once he gets a hold of us. Please, I’m begging you, Phillipe. There’s a cell phone inside of my suit jacket. Dominic’s number is on the list. All you have to do is leave this place and call him. You don’t have to do anything else.” Madison saw the indecision cross his eyes, before he nodded slowly. “It’s in my right pocket,” she murmured. Phillipe slipped his hand into her suit jacket and grabbed the phone, tucking it quickly into his jeans as the front door to wherever they were opened with a slow creak. “Get the hell out of here, Phillipe. You don’t need to see whatever’s going to happen here.” Madison tilted her head as the chilling laughter filled the room. 73

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“You’re all finally awake,” Cesar cackled. “Let’s get this show on the road. Phillipe, go into the van and bring the toys I bought for this special occasion.” Phillipe nodded, quickly running off to do his father’s bidding. “You truly are one sick fuck,” she yelled loudly. “Ah, my dear, you truly have no idea how sick I can get,” he replied as he walked slowly to her. Madison cringed away, tilting her head to the side as Cesar brought his body even with hers. She had no way of escaping, but that didn’t stop her from pushing her body as far away from him as possible, which wasn’t too far because the ropes held tight. “Hey, motherfucker!” Mateo growled harshly. “You want to play, then come and play with me. Leave her out of this!” Cesar ignored him. She smelled his fetid breath as he whispered into her ear, “He doesn’t seem to realize it’s all about you. Let the games begin.”

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Chapter Eighteen

Dominic opened the door to Madison’s office just as his cell phone rang. “Detective Morales speaking.” “I know where she is,” the voice whispered softly. His head snapped up as he gripped the cell phone tightly to his ear. “Where is she?” he bit out through clenched teeth. “An abandoned warehouse on the corner of Seventieth and Harding Street. The back door will be open.” The caller hung up before Dominic had a chance to ask any more questions. Dios, this was the fucking break he needed. He ran outside, bumping into Antonio and Marcos along the way. “We’re headed to Seventieth and Harding Street.” Dominic slid into his car as both men jumped in. He drove fast, purposely keeping the siren light off so Cesar would never know he was coming. **** “You’ve cost me too much time on the hunt, Madison.” She felt instant relief when he stepped away, allowing her room to breathe. Phillipe walked in with a black duffel bag and threw it by his father’s feet. “Is there anything else you need from me, Father?” Madison’s heart broke at the desolation on Phillipe’s face. She should be angry but she couldn’t help but feel sorry for the ugly life he was forced to lead. “Don’t leave the party so soon, Phillipe,” Cesar replied as he walked to the bag and began searching through it. “The party’s just beginning, my boy.” Madison watched in horror as he pulled out the hunting knife he had used to kill all of his victims. She threw a glance at Mateo. He was directly behind Cesar, wrestling the ropes that held his wrists. She had to think of something to distract him, so she said the first thing that came to mind. “Let them go, Cesar. And I’ll stay here with you.”

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She cringed at his laughter, a piercing loud hyena laugh that echoed through the room. “What makes you think you have a chance at escaping me anyway?” he replied as he walked over to her. Madison gasped as he lifted her shirt and placed the knife on her stomach. She held her breath as he slowly pushed the knife upward, cutting her top in half. “What are you going to do?” she choked as bile rose in her throat. “First, I’m going to torture you. Maybe I’ll cut off a piece of your skin and see how quick you bleed,” he whispered torturously. “Then I’m going to really hurt you for making me wait so long to capture you.” “Leave her alone, you fucking piece of filth,” Mateo growled loudly. “You’ll have your turn, boy. Now shut the fuck up,” Cesar replied without looking back. “Why are you doing this?” she cried. “Why are you doing this to me?” “Because you fascinate me. Because I don’t want you to live. Because you are not going to be the one that got away. Do you need more reasons than that?” “You’ve done this for over ten fucking years,” she screamed as her shirt parted. His eyes gleamed evilly as he stared at her chest. “All you do is kill and destroy! Why? What have any of your victims ever done to deserve this?” “I suppose you want to get into my head now. Let me provide you with a little insider information then. It has become my job to send women like you straight to hell. You’re all whores and you deserve to bleed.” Madison shivered at the coldness in his eyes. Cesar still clutched the knife but he hadn’t made another move towards her. She just needed to keep him talking. **** Dominic pulled out his gun and opened the door at the back of the warehouse. The black van parked in the front was the only sign that there were people in the abandoned building. “Antonio, you stay here. I’m heading in with Marcos.” “You’re not calling for backup?” “Not this time, amigo. This son of a bitch is all mine.” “If word gets out…” “Word won’t get out,” he growled at Antonio, before stepping into the building. And if it did, he had no problem putting his badge on the line for Madison’s life.

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He threw a glance at Marcos, making sure he was behind him, before asking, “You never told me what you did for a living.” “The only difference between me and you is I never leave the guilty alive,” The answer was fine by Dominic. He didn’t intend to leave Cesar alive either. **** “Is that how you killed Phillipe’s mom?” “She was a fucking whore,” Cesar screamed. He missed the gasp that erupted from Phillipe’s mouth. “Such a stupid whore,” he continued. “It was easy to make her car accident look exactly like that…an accident.” “You killed your own wife?” “You don’t understand, you bitch, and I have no intention of explaining it to you,” he replied as he arched the knife. Oh god, there’s no way I can stop him. Madison closed her eyes, bracing her body for the impact. The door behind her slammed open. Cesar moved faster than Madison thought possible, placing himself directly behind her as he grabbed her by the waist. He placed the knife at her throat and she couldn’t stop the whimper that escaped her as the knife dug into her flesh. “Well, well, well. It looks like your boyfriend has arrived,” Cesar whispered into her ear. Dominic moved, placing himself directly in Madison’s line of vision. Son of a bitch! Dominic assessed the situation, his gaze on Cesar’s solid grip on the knife. They both knew he couldn’t get a clear shot. Marcos placed himself at the left, lifting his gun. “Say the fucking word, Dominic,” Marcos stated. There would be nothing in this world he’d like better then to say the word, but one false move and Cesar would have no hesitation in killing Madison. Dios! His stomach tightened at the frightened look in her eyes and the way her mouth trembled. “You have one choice. Step away from her now and I might let you live long enough to see a jail cell.” Cesar laughed, digging the knife a little deeper. “If I were imprisoned we both know I wouldn’t live to see another night.” Dominic growled. “I will not be repeating myself.” “Detective, you fail to realize that if you do take that shot, your love will be gone forever. Phillipe, hand me that bag on the floor.” 77

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Dominic saw the boy move to pick up the bag. “Don’t try it, boy.” “You let my son pick up that bag or I’ll kill her now!” Phillipe laid his hand on Dominic’s arm. “It’s all right, detective. He’s my father. I know what I have to do now.” Dominic grunted as Phillipe picked the bag up with his right arm. He caught the flash of metal hidden in Phillipe’s left hand, placed strategically behind his jeans as he brought the bag to his father. Dios! The boy was going to make a move against his dad. Cesar grabbed the bag quickly, giving Phillipe the time he needed and the distraction Dominic wanted. Phillipe brought the knife around and plunged the blade into his father’s stomach. The monster screamed then gasped like a wild fish as blood spurted from his wound. Dominic quickly grabbed Cesar’s arm, forcing the knife away from Madison. He didn’t stop twisting until he heard the bone crunch under his fingers. Marcos kicked the bag away. “Fuck,” Cesar bellowed as Dominic slammed his leg into his knee. Cesar fell to the floor writhing in pain, howling like a wounded beast. This was nothing. He was only beginning to know what true pain felt like. Dominic turned from the bastard and caught a glimpse of Madison running to him. He opened up his arms, catching her in his embrace. “You okay, querida?” She nodded. “I was so scared.” “You will never have anything to be afraid of again. I promise you that. Take the girls and the boy out of here,” Dominic stated to Marcos and Mateo. “I will be outside in a few minutes.” Marcos pulled Madison away from Dominic. She opened her mouth as if to say something, but then turned away. Dominic turned, watching Phillipe as he stood frozen, watching his father with a look of defeat. He dropped the knife then wiped the blood on his shirt. “That was for Mom. Goodbye, Father.” Phillipe gave Dominic one last haunting look and left the room. Dominic waited until he was alone with Cesar, who was still writhing on the floor like the snake he was. “As much as I would like to take that knife on the floor and gut you like a fish, I can’t. It would just take too much time to watch you die. Antonio is probably already

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radioing for back up,” he stated clearly, no emotion in his voice. The anger was there, but he had long ago learned never to let rage cloud your emotion. He aimed the gun at Cesar’s knee. “This is for my sister, Esme. May she now rest in peace." The warehouse echoed the shot, the sound bouncing off before Dominic heard Cesar’s scream. “This is for Phillipe,” he stated nonchalantly, before firing at his other knee. He fired the gun, the bullet slamming through flesh. Again the sound echoed loudly. Cesar moaned, shaking like a fish. Dominic placed his boot on his neck, crushing his windpipe before stating, “And this is for Madison.” The bullet hit his forehead quickly, ending his cries forever.

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Chapter Nineteen

One Month Later Madison entered her apartment, quickly closing the door behind her. She pressed her hand to the back of her neck, rubbing down the tight ring of muscle filled with tension. It had been a tiring two weeks, wrought with emotion and high stress. Internal Affairs was investigating everyone in the case. Some wanted to crucify Phillipe. But Madison wouldn’t have it. She knew he wasn’t blameless in helping his father kidnap her. But why punish a child when he had more to deal with than anyone would ever understand? She had successfully convinced Internal Affairs that the best place for Phillipe would be under the care of a psychiatrist. As a juvenile counselor for a home, it would take more than what she could do to repair the years of torment he had gone through. But she would be making sure Phillipe got all the treatment he needed. She knew Dominic had put his badge on the line in murdering Cesar. He hadn’t admitted the truth to anyone but her. Sighing, Madison placed her purse down and walked to the bedroom. Raina still avoided speaking to her about that day. She threw herself into work, insisting everything was okay. Madison couldn’t help but be worried about her. She slipped her heels off then pulled her dress over her head, dropping it on a chair. The shower was running, which meant Dominic was home. Madison smiled. She intended to put everything behind her. She had a whole two weeks off, and she intended to use the time wisely, spending most of it in bed with Dominic. She couldn’t help but be in love with him. His dominating moods irritated her outside of the bedroom, but he more than made up for it when they were inside. Trust was a huge factor for her. But after spending more and more time with her father, she realized she was holding back from Dominic. Her father’s behavior had affected her more deeply then she had realized. It was hard admitting it, but she had

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distanced herself from Dominic because she was terrified of being hurt. How was she ever going to find happiness if she didn’t let her past go? She heard the shower turn off. Madison sat on the bed, clad in a black thong and low cut bra as she waited for him to appear. Dominic exited the bathroom, wrapped only in a towel. Droplets of water raced down his chest, quickly disappearing below. His cock rose, tenting the material. Her palms itched to trace him as her mouth watered for a taste. Dominic coughed. Madison brought her eyes back to his face. He wore a sexy smirk on his lips. “Internal Affairs made their decision today.” Madison stated as she blushed at being caught staring so openly. The smirk quickly disappeared. His eyebrow rose as he sauntered over to the bed. “What did they decide?” “I’m surprised no one’s called you. They’ve closed the case. They agreed that Phillipe needs a lot of medical care.” “It’s a good decision,” Dominic replied as he dropped his towel and sat beside Madison. He was such a sexy looking man. Okay, focus on conversation. “I’m just glad they agreed.” Dominic reached one hand around her, quickly unclasping her bra. She shifted, letting him remove the material down her arms and away from her body. Madison reached for his cock. He had been hard when he stepped out of the bathroom but was now rock solid as she ran her hand from base to tip. His body tightened as if he were ready to jump her. Madison slid off the bed and dropped to her knees. “I don’t think I ever mentioned how grateful I am for everything you’ve done,” she stated, before running her thumb over the head of his cock. Fluid seeped out from the slit. She rubbed the liquid over his darkened head, enjoying the slickness as she inhaled his scent. She ran her tongue over the top of him, tasting his flavor. He growled then placed his hand on her hair, holding the strands tightly. She sucked on the tip for several seconds before dragging her mouth to the base of his shaft. Bobbing her head up and down, Madison sucked until the head of his cock bumped the back of her throat and his balls tightened in her hand.

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“Dios, Maddy, stop,” he growled as he grabbed her shoulders, successfully dislodging her from his shaft. In such a short time, she had become his whole world, the one person he wanted to spend the rest of his life with. Like an addiction, there wasn’t one moment where he didn’t find himself thinking about her. He felt his heart beating rapidly as he dragged her to her feet. Dominic ripped her g-string off, the tearing sensation sending a burn of need throughout him. She gasped at the sound as her hand flew to his nipples to toy with his piercing. Dominic ate at her mouth, unleashing the love he felt for her through that kiss. He traced her luscious lips, flexing his tongue around her mouth, before sucking hers and grinding his cock against her soft belly. The beast in him wanted to mark and suck on her skin, marking her as his for eternity. He couldn’t hold back the words any longer. He tugged on her hair, forcing her head back so he could stare into her eyes. “Querida, te amo por siempre. Sweetheart, I’ll love you forever,” Dominic whispered. He didn’t want to rush her, but the heavy emotion was beating at him. She gasped at the words as her eyes misted in tears. “Te amo por siempre,” Madison replied, emotion making her voice thick with need. He didn’t realize he was actually holding his breath until Madison said the words. And he didn’t realize how important it was to hear them. Dominic grabbed her waist and placed her on the bed. She looked like a sexy siren, lying down on the red sheets. Another time, he would have enjoyed the scenery but Madison reached down and grabbed his cock, leading him into the entrance of her pussy. He entered her slowly, relishing the way her tight muscles sent ripples throughout his cock. He shafted her, fiercely digging into her heat until his cock bumped her womb. Then he would retract and start all over. Making true love was a highly sensual experience when you found the right person. Fortunately for him he had. The want, the need, the love he had for her consumed him. And he finally gave into his basic desire to mark her. He placed his lips on her neck, growling around her skin, sending her a fragile warning before sucking on the tender flesh as he continued to fuck her. He savored every thrust, suck, and ripple, slowly savoring the exoticness of the act. Madison moaned, her hands digging into his shoulders as her pussy tightened around his shaft, forcing his orgasm out of him like a rushing wind.

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He growled his love for her, slamming his lips in a fiery kiss. He would do anything for her. Nothing was too small a task for him. And he would spend his entire life just showing her how much he loved her.

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About the Author

I was born and raised in New York City and I'll probably live there for always. I'm twenty-nine years old and married to my husband for seven years, and I'm a mother to two adorable children.

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