A Cerridwen Press Publication
www.cerridwenpress.com
Force of Nature ISBN 9781419909788 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Force of Nature Copyright© 2007 Robin Leigh Miller. Edited by Helen Woodall. Cover art by Croco. Electronic book Publication August 2007
With the exception of quotes used in reviews, this book may not be reproduced or used in whole or in part by any means existing without written permission from the publisher, Ellora’s Cave Publishing Inc., 1056 Home Avenue, Akron, OH 44310-3502. This book is a work of fiction and any resemblance to persons, living or dead, or places, events or locales is purely coincidental. The characters are productions of the authors’ imagination and used fictitiously. Cerridwen Press is an imprint of Ellora’s Cave Publishing, Inc.®
FORCE OF NATURE Robin Leigh Miller
Acknowledgements I would like to thank my family, especially my husband, for all their wonderful support and encouragement. Last but certainly not least, I would like to thank my editor Helen for dealing with all the silly mistakes she has to put up with.
Trademarks Acknowledgement The author acknowledges the trademarked status and trademark owners of the following wordmark mentioned in this work of fiction: Taser : Taser International, Inc
Force of Nature
Chapter One The soft golden glow of the early morning sun peeked through the hulking maple and oak trees lining the road. Their great size was accentuated by the brilliant colors adorning them. Orange, yellow and red leaves created a vibrant canopy high above the road as the massive limbs stretched to meet like two lovers grasping for each other’s hand. Each side of the macadam road was fringed with colorful leaves creating a scene for a postcard. Markey sped down the road in her silver sedan creating a tornado of color in her wake. She squinted against the sun that glared in her windshield while she sang along with a tune from the Eighties playing on the radio. Fall was her favorite time of year and this particular stretch of road was magnificent when it came to nature’s colorful display. She could live here until she was gray and brittle and never get tired of seeing the exquisite scenery. And live here forever was exactly what she planned to do. After years of roaming from one town to the next looking for a place she could get lost in she came across the suburb of Roanoke, New York. Just an hour away from the Pennsylvania border, she could shop in either state or just take a leisurely drive. A short distance up the road was what would pass for a small city where she could work. The best part was that there were enough people living in the area that she could blend in and no one would notice her. No one would care who she was. Her picture wouldn’t be plastered all over the local paper claiming she was some kind of phenomenon. Markey’s thoughts drifted to her past. The happy, content feeling she was reveling in all morning began to drift away. Three years ago she was living a solid happy life. She had friends she went out with on a regular basis, a good job she enjoyed and she even dated a few times. She thought everything was perfect then too, until the evening of June fifteenth. Her skin prickled and her hands wrapped tightly around the steering wheel as the scene unfolded in her mind. She was out with two of her friends for an evening of Italian food, wine and bar-hopping. The echo of the evening’s laughter rang in her ears. The three women gossiped, flirted with the waiter and danced until eleven in the evening. When the suggestion was made to walk two blocks down to the next bar Markey halfheartedly objected claiming it wasn’t safe for three tipsy women to be walking the streets at night. Quickly overruled by her cohorts they headed out into the warm evening air, arms linked together more to hold each other up than for the feeling of safety. Markey couldn’t shake the heavy feeling of trouble that sat in the pit of her stomach like a lead ball. She laughed with her friends telling herself that she was being silly, everything
5
Robin Leigh Miller
would be fine. After all there was safety in numbers, at least that’s what she’d always been told while she was growing up. A commotion echoed in the street as a group of people rushed out of the Sorcerer Night Club one block ahead of them. Women were shouting at one another, pulling hair and clawing at each other’s faces with perfectly manicured fingernails. Men were swinging fists and rolling on the ground like a bunch of nine-year-olds having a spat in the playground. The music stopped when the bouncer shoved the last troublemaker out the door and slammed it shut. “Now that looks like a happening place.” Sandy, the tipsiest of three squealed in delight. Markey rolled her eyes in disgust. “You really want to go in there?” “Come on Markey lighten up. Maybe we can find a nice roughneck for you and get you laid,” her other friend Denise teased. The two women looked at each other and began laughing with delight. Markey blew off the comment as she watched the crowd up the block continue brawling. “Why aren’t the police here?” she said looking up and down the street. “They’re just blowing off a little steam. When it’s all over I bet they buy each other a drink. Come on ladies the party’s waiting for us.” Markey planted her high-heeled feet firmly to the ground as the other two walked on ahead of her. The lead ball in her stomach was gaining weight by the second. That’s when it all started. Four men stepped out from between two buildings and formed a human wall in front of the three women. Markey sized them up in seconds. Gang members she thought to herself. The navy blue bandanas wrapped around their heads said they belonged to the Guns. The three-inch white stripe on the bandanas indicated they were being initiated. Gang activity was running rampant in the city. Every night the news did a piece informing the citizens what to watch for and avoid. The largest of the four men stepped forward and pulled a six-inch knife from the waistband of his exposed boxers. Street light reflected off the polished steel and briefly blinded Markey. When her vision cleared she looked past them to the brawl that was still taking place. From the looks and sound of it more people had joined in on the fray making it impossible for anyone to hear a frightened woman scream. “I hear you lookin’ for a party.” The large man sneered. “We got your party right here.” He grabbed his crotch and squeezed. Markey’s stomach rolled. The two women directly in front of the gang clung to each other. Markey could see their knees quake. Safety in numbers, she thought to herself and walked up next to her friends. “Look here. It looks like one don’t want to be left out.” All four men chuckled as they stared at the leggy woman. “We don’t want any trouble. Just let us pass.” Markey’s voice was shaky but her eyes held firm on the leader’s face.
6
Force of Nature
“Well bitch, trouble’s just what you gonna get.” Like a flash of lightning he reached out and grabbed Sandy by the hair and drew her next to his body. The movement was so quick the woman didn’t have time to scream. He held the blade of his knife to her throat and drew it across leaving a shallow slice in her skin. The fear that Markey had been trying to hide dissolved as she watched bright red blood trickle down her friend’s neck. Anger drifted through Markey’s system like a thick fog rolling off the ocean. “Make a sound,” the gang leader snarled, “and I’ll show you what her insides look like. Now move.” The three other gang members circled the two women and herded them between the two buildings. As they walked the leader continued to hold the knife to Sandy’s neck while his free hand slid up the front of her skirt. Jeers of encouragement came from the rest of the gang. When they reached a dark secluded spot that couldn’t be seen from the street they were stopped. Both Markey’s friends sobbed and shook from fear. Markey stood perfectly still and calm as she let the anger within her build. “I get this one,” the leader said running his tongue up the terrified woman’s cheek. “When I’m finished you guys get to party.” Markey was deaf to the sobs of her friends and oblivious to the stench of garbage, which drifted through the air. Electricity sizzled through her arms and down her legs. Her eyes narrowed on the man holding her friend. When his knife slid down between her breasts and stopped at her navel Markey stopped breathing. For the first time in her life she prayed her anger would grow at a faster rate. The gang leader slid the knife up under the woman’s blouse and gave it a quick jerk. Markey heard the rip of the material and the blood-curdling scream of one of the closest friends she’d ever had. As Sandy stood in front of everyone with her breasts bared, Markey allowed her anger to flow through her body and toward the man harming her friend. “Let her go.” Her voice came out in a low growl that made her friends shiver with fear. The gang leader ignored her and grabbed the woman’s breast. The heartbreaking sobs fueled the force that churned deep within Markey. “I said let her go.” Wind began swirling garbage around everyone’s feet increasing with speed and force until the three gang members behind her were shielding their eyes from the flying debris. Markey’s eyes bore into the gang leader. He turned and looked at her with blood in his eyes. “Don’t worry bitch,” he said then smiled. “I’ll have plenty left for you.” The half naked Sandy took her chance and tried to escape the man’s grip when he turned to Markey. He quickly leaned his body against her and pinned her tight against the wall then struck her with his fist. Markey saw Sandy’s eyes roll back in her head and her body slump.
7
Robin Leigh Miller
Markey’s fisted hands opened splaying her fingers wide, a sign that she was letting it all go. The wind picked up and whipped at everyone in the dark alley except Markey. She took one step forward and was stopped by the three men behind her. One gang member grabbed a handful of her hair jerking her head back. Another grabbed one of her arms and the other stepped in front of her. Markey focused on his face, she let the hatred in his eyes feed her. Closing her eyes she let the force build then opened them and aimed all her energy at the man standing in front of her. A funnel of high pressurized air burst forth from Markey’s body. The man lifted two inches off the ground and flew backward, his arms and legs flailing as he flew. A loud thud sounded as his body slammed against one of the buildings. The gang leader turned his attention from his victim and saw his man lying motionless on the ground. “What the fuck?” the one holding her arm shrieked. Markey turned her head toward him and focused her energy through her arm. As the wind whipped around his body she made a small motion with her arm and flung him behind her. He somersaulted three times before coming to rest twenty feet away against a garbage can. While the third man watched his fellow gang member tumble away his hold on her hair loosened. Markey took that opportunity and whirled around, the force of her energy sending him flying through the air and landing next to his friend. The stunned look on his face almost made Markey smile. The sobbing sound coming from behind her refocused her attention. She turned and saw Denise cowering away from her. The fear in her eyes knifed at Markey’s heart, but that had to be pushed aside, there was one more man to be dealt with. His eyes never revealed any fear of Markey, just brief curiosity. Wanting to make sure his victim didn’t run he plowed his fist into her stomach with such force it snapped one of Sandy’s ribs. Markey saw Sandy’s flesh pale as she gasped for breath. “Bastard!” Markey roared. The wind in the alley whipped with hurricane-like force. A garbage can lid whirled through the air and slammed against one of the buildings. Not at all deterred by the awesome wind, the gang leader took two steps toward her. Markey stretched her arms out in front of her and directed her energy at him. The man staggered trying to stay on his feet. Denise dropped to all fours and crawled toward Sandy. When she reached her she cradled her in her arms and hung on for dear life. “What are you,” the gang leader hollered above the wind, “some kinda freak?” Markey felt the words more than heard them. “Freak” had been used many times in her life to describe her and it usually sent her running. But she couldn’t run now, she had to save her two friends. “Don’t matter to me if you’re a freak,” the man yelled. He shielded his eyes from the wind and spread his legs apart to give him more stability. “You’re dead anyway!”
8
Force of Nature
Markey lost herself in the fury she wielded. Her arms rose in the air and as they did the wind concentrated around the gang leader. His clothes began to shred in the strong wind. His precious bandana ripped from his head and swirled around him. With every bit of strength he had, he lifted his right foot and took a step toward Markey. She didn’t react. Instead she watched as he moved against the force of the wind. When he was an arm’s length away he stopped. Markey narrowed her eyes at him. “You’ve taken your last victim.” Her words were whisked away by the wind. A low growl formed in her throat and echoed through the alley. She bent her knees slightly, lowered her arms and then thrust them into the air. The gang leader rose high above the dirty pavement and sailed up the alley toward the street. He landed with a bone-breaking thud in the middle of the two-lane road. Markey charged toward him leaving her friends behind. When she reached him she raised her arms one more time and lifted him in the air. “No!” The terrified voice came from behind her. She turned her head slightly and saw two gang members standing behind her with such fear in their eyes it startled her. She glanced up the street toward where the brawl that had been taking place and saw a mob of people watching, their jaws lax. What was she doing? Had she lost her mind? Her own form of terror swept through her. The wind began to decrease around the gang leader as her anger seeped from her body. As gently as she could, she lowered him to the ground as sirens filled the night air. Markey turned and ran back down the alley toward her friends. When she reached them they were still huddled together on the ground. Sandy gasped for air as each breath sent piercing pain through her body. Denise’s hand clasped Sandy’s tattered blouse together. “Are you two all right?” Markey knelt down beside them and reached out. Denise tightened her grip on Sandy and winced away from Markey’s hand. The look in her eyes was familiar. Markey had seen it before—confusion, fear and curiosity about the unknown. It was the look of a wild animal caught between wanting the raw meat being offered and the natural instinct to run. Markey’s heart sank to the pit of her stomach, tears welled in her eyes. The need to explain was strong. The words caught in her throat, she could see no explanation would mend what these two women had experienced. “The police are out in the street,” she said as a tear spilled down her cheek, “I’ll send help.” Denise continued to stare at her as she stood and backed away from them. “I’m sorry.” It was all she could think of to say. The sound of Markey’s heels clicking on the filthy alley echoed off the buildings as she ran toward street. When she stepped out of the alley and under a street lamp she could see the mob of brawlers gathered around the gang leader lying on the pavement. All eyes turned and focused on her.
9
Robin Leigh Miller
Chapter Two One witness leaned over to the tall police officer next to him and whispered something. His eyes connected with Markey’s instantly. The expression on his face revealed nothing as he strolled through the crowd toward her. When he reached her his eyes did a cursory stroll up and down her body and then returned to her face. “I need to ask you some questions ma’am.” Markey nodded her head, her eyes staring directly into his. “There are two women in the alley that need help. One is badly hurt. I’ll answer your questions as soon as you get help to them.” The officer held her gaze for a brief moment and then motioned for another officer. “She says there are two women down the alley. Grab a paramedic and go check it out.” As the other officer began to walk away he hollered, “Take another uniform with you.” The rest of the night seemed like a blur to her. She remembered sitting in the open door of the cruiser as paramedics wheeled Sandy from the alley on a stretcher. Denise walked next to her holding her hand and trying to give her comfort. The onlookers were shoved back behind yellow tape, which had been stretched across the street and the gang members were cuffed and shuffled off to the police station. It seemed like hours before the officer returned and began questioning her. She told him exactly what happened up until the point when they entered the alley. After that she let her story become vague, telling him only that a fierce wind had come from nowhere and the rest was all confused. The officer tapped his pen to his lips as he contemplated her story. “The witnesses say the wind seemed to be coming from you. That you controlled it.” He crossed his arms over his chest and gazed into her face. Markey gave a small chuckle. “Me, control the wind? That seems a little absurd don’t you think?” He stood motionless for a few moments before he let his arms drop to his side. “Yeah absurd. I’ll have an officer take you home but I’ll need to speak with you again.” Markey nodded letting relief wash through her. At least tonight there would be no more probing or suspicious eyes. When she returned home the evening’s events began to catch up with her. Her muscles started to quake, trembling so violently she could do nothing but lie on her bed and let her body convulse. When it was finally over, she lay drenched in sweat as a dull headache settled behind her eyes. She expected this, but the pain didn’t compare to what she would have to endure over the next two days. She underwent extensive questioning by the police, reporters
10
Force of Nature
phoned at all hours of the day and night. Photographers followed her every move and worst of all, her friends wouldn’t speak to her. Sandy had been released from the hospital the following day with two broken ribs. She didn’t recall any of the events that took place in the alley, but Denise had filled her in with such a wild tale that she feared just hearing Markey’s name. Markey finally couldn’t take being pushed away by her friends any longer. Knowing if she phoned again Denise would simply hang up on her, she trudged over to her apartment. When Denise opened the door she tried to slam it shut in Markey’s face. Markey stuck her foot in the door and pleaded for Denise to talk to her. Denise agreed to talk, but only if Markey stayed outside. “What are you?” Denise asked peeking through the crack of the opened door. “What do you mean what am I? I’m Markey Neville, your friend.” “No. I saw you in that alley. You aren’t human. You were glowing, your eyes were like fire. My God you threw those men around like they were rag dolls. No human can do what you did. “ “Denise please, you’re confused.” If she could just convince Denise that she’d imagined the whole thing, that the trauma of the night had caused her to embellish what had really happened, then everything would fine. “Don’t you try that psychology crap with me, I know what I saw. Now leave me and Sandy alone. We don’t ever want to see you again.” Denise kicked at Markey’s foot removing it from between the door and wall. “Freak,” she mumbled before slamming the door. Tears streamed down Markey’s face as she left Denise’s apartment building. Freak, it always came down to that one word. It had to be the most hurtful word in the English dictionary. Nonetheless, it wasn’t the first time she heard it and it wouldn’t be the last. Markey returned home to find her small house that she rented covered in smashed eggs with the word “freak” spray-painted in huge black letters across the front. The sound of hushed whispers came from behind her as the neighborhood gathered across the street to stare. Lying on the ground in front of her door was a newspaper with a large black and white picture of her. Over it read, “Is this woman a phenomenon?” She stepped over it and unlocked her sticky, slimy door and proceeded inside. She knew what she had to do and without any hesitation she began packing. By the end of the day she had called her boss and quit, packed all important items and loaded her car. When nightfall came she slipped behind the wheel and began her search for her new home. She had tried to settle in many different towns over the last few years but never felt comfortable in them. They were either too small where everyone knew everyone else’s business or the crime rate was higher than the population. When she found Roanoke she felt at home instantly. The beauty of the area made her feel calm and relaxed and the population was too busy living their own lives to care who she was.
11
Robin Leigh Miller
It took little time to find a small house to rent in the country. Actually, it was an old hunting cabin that was rustic-looking from the outside but had all the modern amenities she needed. It had only one bedroom but that was fine, her future held only loneliness for her. No need for an extra bedroom when she had no hope of ever having any friends or family to visit. After only a week of searching she found a part-time job as a receptionist at a local concrete plant. They told her if she hung in there long enough the job could become full-time. That was fine as well, since she was frugal with her money she had plenty saved and the paycheck she received each week was enough to pay her bills. Today she was headed to the bank to cash her check and maybe do some window shopping in town. It was going to be a lovely fall day with the sun warm and the air cool. Maybe she’d even treat herself to a sundae at the local ice cream parlor. Markey was so lost in thought about her past and present that she was oblivious to the loud rumbling sound growing closer behind her. The mixture of sadness and peace she felt about her life had her in a trance-like state. When the thunderous rumble whizzed past her car and streaked ahead of her she jumped jerking the steering wheel to the right. The small sedan veered toward the trunk of an old maple tree before Markey jerked the wheel again and stood on the brakes. Her eyes caught sight of a motorcycle going around the bend ahead of her. The rider’s long ponytail flapped from under his helmet in the breeze as he reclined in a relaxed position on the chopper. Markey made quick note of the shiny blue gas tank and the leather saddle bags on the bike. “Bikers,” she mumbled while her hands shook in her lap. She gave herself a few moments to calm down before she removed her foot from the brake and continued down the road. She would never understand the fascination with those noisy two-wheeled monsters. In her opinion the only type of people that rode them were overly muscular small-minded men looking for trouble. Trying to shake off the experience she reached down and cranked her radio. The heavy drums playing helped beat away the tension in her shoulders. By the time she reached town she was much more relaxed. Her good mood had returned as she parked her car in front of the bank. The sun was high and full and its warm rays blanketed her skin. Puffy white cotton candy clouds drifted in the blue sky. Markey slid from her car and took a deep breath of fresh air. She glanced around at all the people bustling down the street and took comfort in the fact that none of them cared who she was. Sun glared off the big glass doors of the bank temporarily blinding her. She lowered her head to avoid the shine and walked inside. Two lines of people had formed in front of the long counter where the tellers conducted business. Markey picked the shorter line and waited her turn.
12
Force of Nature
To pass the time she watched the variety of people waiting as she was. There was an old man supporting himself with a cane, probably cashing his meager social security check. Behind him was tall thin man dressed in a dark gray suit talking on his cell phone. A loud cackle of laughter drew Markey’s attention farther back in the line. A woman dressed in a crisp straight maroon skirt and matching jacket looked down her nose at the woman standing in front of her. This woman wasn’t dressed nearly as professionally. She wore a bright red pair of spandex pants that did nothing to hide her cellulite-laden thighs and a tight black top that left no doubt as to what her cup size was. The whole ensemble was capped off with a pair of high-heeled pumps and a big hairstyle that screamed “the Eighties”. She too had a cell phone pressed to her ear and was obviously enjoying the conversation taking place. Markey let a small smile form on her lips. She always found it interesting how different people could be. The squeal of an infant drew Markey’s eyes to the line in front of her. There, wrestling with a stroller, a diaper bag and a very impatient baby, was a girl Markey guessed was about twenty. The poor girl was trying to poke a bottle in the baby’s mouth, but she wasn’t having it. Markey watched as the young girl tried to bounce the baby in her arm trying anything to hush its escalating cries. A small ache or emptiness, she wasn’t sure which, developed in Markey’s womb. She knew the hope of ever having her own family was nonexistent but whenever she saw a new mother holding a small pink bundle a spark of hope flared briefly in her heart. Markey averted her eyes away from the young girl. It wouldn’t do any good to let that spark of hope grow. A loud commotion from behind her made Markey turn. It took a few moments for her to comprehend what she was seeing. Three people had entered the bank wearing black ski masks and held large black guns in their hands. “Listen up!” one yelled to everyone in the bank. Everyone turned toward the voice. A few gasps could be heard along with some whispered curses. “Everyone stay very calm and quiet.” Two of the masked men made their way toward the tellers, one stayed in front of the glass doors. Markey hoped the bank had some kind of silent alarm the tellers could press to alert the police. When her eyes glanced over their faces she could see so much fear in them that it probably wouldn’t matter—they were too scared to think. One of the robbers stood in front of the counter and pointed the gun toward the waiting patrons. Very calmly he started giving his orders. “Everyone lie down on the floor with your hands stretched out in front of you.” Everyone, including Markey just stood and stared at him. “Now!” he barked emphasizing his command by thrusting his gun toward the crowd.
13
Robin Leigh Miller
Amazingly almost everyone dropped to the floor in unison. Markey glanced around hoping someone would use their cell phone to call for help. As her eyes darted around she saw the old man with the cane still standing. “I said get down on the floor old man!” The elderly gentleman tried several times to lower himself down, but it was obvious his old joints didn’t allow such motion. Markey prayed the robber would show some compassion and allow him to stand. Her hopes were dashed when the gunman raised his arm and crashed it across the gentleman’s back. He fell to the polished floor like a rock. “Son of a bitch.” The curse came from behind her and off to her left. Her eyes searched for the person that voiced her very feelings. Her eyes met with a man sprawled on his stomach wearing a black leather jacket. His hazel eyes were full of venom for the callous robber who had struck the old man. The sound of sirens grew on the street outside the bank. Markey wasn’t sure if a teller had sounded an alarm or one of the patrons had sense enough to dial 9-1-1. It didn’t matter really, the police were here and this whole nightmare would be over soon. “We got cops!” the man in front of the doors informed his partners. The harshness of his voice sent the infant into a screaming fit. Markey darted her eyes toward the young woman trying desperately to quiet the baby. “Shut that kid up or I’ll do it for you.” Markey’s hands fisted against the polished tile floor. If this man would hit a poor defenseless old man, what would he do to a young woman and a baby? The familiar feeling of anger started churning in the pit of Markey’s stomach. She closed her eyes and fought to keep it from building. “Attention inside the bank. Lay down your weapons and come out with your hands in the air.” The shrill sound through the bullhorn sent the infant into a whole new level of screaming that pierced through Markey’s eardrums. She opened her eyes and saw the mother leaning over her baby as tears dripped from her face into the child’s. “I said shut that kid up!” The robber turned to the tellers. “Fill the bag with all the cash,” he ordered as his partner tossed white plastic bags at them. “Come on man they’ve got news people and big guns out there,” the man in front of the doors shouted above the baby’s screams. “Take it easy, they won’t do anything as long as we have hostages.” The baby let lose a shrill scream that made everyone wince. The robber stomped over to the young mother and grabbed her by the hair jerking her head backward. “Shut it up now!” “I can’t, he’s scared,” she sobbed. Markey looked toward the man wearing the leather coat. Their eyes met. She saw the muscle in his jaw working as he clenched his teeth. His nostrils flared as he took
14
Force of Nature
heavy deep breaths. Markey’s anger churned to life as she watched this man try to control his. The robber paced away from the mother and child and Markey briefly relaxed her hands. When the baby released another ear-splitting scream the man turned. “That’s it! I can’t stand it anymore.” He rushed across the floor to the mother, wrapped his hand in her hair and yanked her off the floor. The sobbing of women and men were slowly drowned out of Markey’s ears by the rush of blood through her veins. Her anger had grown too big for her to stop now. When the man shoved the barrel of the gun into the mother’s face she closed her eyes and let the force build behind her eyes. The man behind her and off to her right coiled his muscles like a snake ready to strike. There was no way he could beat a bullet but he could damn well beat his fist into the face of the man that pulled the trigger. He knew he’d be shot instantly by one of the other robbers, but he couldn’t lie here and watch a young woman and her baby be murdered in cold blood. Instead of pulling the trigger the man growled into her face and pistol-whipped her. The woman dropped to the ground with the baby still in her arms and still screaming. The robber pulled his foot back like he was going to make a punt. Markey opened her eyes in time to see the movement and allowed the force of her energy to flow directly to the man’s leg. Before his foot connected with the baby’s small body it hit an invisible wall and swung backward and connected with his own ass. He tried to kick again and met the same result. “What the hell?” Markey heard movement behind her but was so focused on the man trying to harm the baby she ignored it. When he aimed his gun at the baby’s head Markey leapt to her feet. All other people in the room had vanished in her vision. Her sights were firmly set on the man in front of her. “Get the fuck down!” he ordered aiming the gun at her. Markey only heard the rush of the wind in her ears. It swirled around her whipping her long hair straight up in the air. As its velocity grew she focused on his face. His finger began to squeeze the trigger. Markey opened her fists and flung her arms out in front of her. The man staggered backward and fell over a cowering patron. “Shoot her!” he commanded to his partners. Markey’s attention then focused on the second man near the tellers. She raised her arms over her head as the wind lifted him into the air. His screams echoed off the walls of the bank as loose paper floated around him. The gun he held dropped to the floor and was retrieved by the old man. Behind her the man that was on watch in front of the doors took aim at her back. She had been so focused on the two in front of her she had forgotten about him and his gun. She heard the whoosh of air being pressed from lungs and turned to see the man
15
Robin Leigh Miller
in the leather coat driving his fist into the third robber’s stomach. When he bent forward the leather-coated man brought his knee up and into his face. After he dropped unconscious to the floor the man in the leather coat winked at Markey and smiled. The expression on his face changed as his eyes focused on something behind her. “Look out!” Markey turned just as the lead robber’s fist crashed into her jaw. Markey growled like an angry tiger and let the pain coursing through her face feed her anger. She lifted her arms into the air and commanded the wind to raise him high above her. She watched as his legs and arms flailed wildly around before letting him fall to the floor. Again she lifted her arms and raised him and again she let him fall to the floor. Blood pooled underneath his head, his limbs lay against the tile floor twisted and bent in odd directions. Markey began to raise her arms again when the man in the leather coat threw his arm over hers and stopped her. “He’s had enough,” he shouted above the roar of the wind. Her eyes narrowed on his face. So much force had built inside her she wasn’t sure she could control it. It needed to be set free. A whirlwind of paper and debris swirled around them, isolating them from the rest of the people in the room. “It’s over. He isn’t going to hurt anyone else,” he told her as he held her eyes. “I don’t know how to stop it.” The energy inside her felt as though it was going to tear her apart. It needed to be set free or controlled and she didn’t know how to control it. The wind picked up speed sliding people across the floor and slamming them into the walls. Glass shattered as the doors and windows gave to the wild wind. “Look at me. Focus on me.” He reached out and gently laid his hands on her shoulders. “I’ll help you.” Pain surged through her body, ripping at her organs. “It hurts.” With gentle hands he massaged her shoulders. “Can you focus it somewhere else? Can you redirect it?” “I don’t know. Where?” Her body began to tremble from the pain. Tears spilled from her eyes. “There’s an open window behind the tellers. It looks like there isn’t anything out there. Direct it out the window.” He watched as the irises of her eyes opened all the way. Later when he had time to think about he would wonder about the odd color that seemed to burn in the center. Under his hands he felt her muscles tremble and ripple. It felt like her body would fly apart in seconds. “Do it now.” Markey turned her face away from his and looked toward the back of the bank. Through the flying debris she could see the large open window. She focused her energy
16
Force of Nature
toward the open space. Paper and all other debris funneled toward the window and whooshed outside. He felt her muscles slowly calm beneath his hands. “Let it all go,” he said in a calming voice. As the last of the fierce wind died he felt her start to slump toward him. She turned her face to his and looked at him with pain and fear in her eyes just before she went limp. He caught her in his arms and settled to the floor cradling her in his arms. His hand gently touched her cheek and brushed her hair from her eyes. The silence in the room was broken when the police came charging through the blown-out doors. Terrified hostages screamed when more rifles were pointed at them. “Everyone stay calm.” The man in the leather coat holding Markey looked up at the officer talking. “The ones you’re after are wearing black ski masks. There’s a young woman over there with a baby that needs medical attention.” He looked around the room at all the frightened faces. “There’s an old man that will need help too. I don’t know about anyone else.” “What about her?” the officer asked kneeling down beside them. “She’ll be fine. I’ll take care of her while you check everyone else out.” Markey started to regain consciousness while people were being ushered out of the bank. As each one passed by her they looked down into her face with concern. The old man stopped and laid his hand on the leather-clad shoulder. “I hope she’ll be okay.” The man looked into the old man’s face. “Are you okay?” “I’ll be fine. Take care of her,” he said then shuffled away. Take care of her. Hell he didn’t even know who she was. Markey opened her eyes, groaned and rolled her head toward the man’s chest. “Hi,” he said with a smile. “How do you feel?” “Like a freight train ran me down.” The man smiled at her then leaned forward and whispered in her ear, “How exactly are we going to explain all of this?” Markey closed her eyes and let out a small sigh. “I have no idea.” Heavy footsteps made their way toward them then stopped. “How’s she doing?” “I’m fine,” Markey replied sitting up and pulling herself away from the man that held her. “I think she should sit still for a while yet. I’ll bring her out when she’s ready.” The officer nodded. “I need statements from both of you.” “Sure, no problem.” That’s why he wanted more time with her, to get their stories straight.
17
Robin Leigh Miller
The officer walked away as Markey looked up at the man. “Really I’m fine.” “Maybe you are, but we have to get our stories straight about what went on here.” Markey dropped her head into her hands. “What difference does it make? There were what, twenty other people in here? When they get done telling the police what happened, it won’t matter what we tell them.” The man considered it for a moment. “Not necessarily. Most of them had their heads buried in the floor. They didn’t really see anything.” For a brief second Markey thought he had a point then brushed it aside. “Look, this isn’t your problem. Walk away while you can.” When he didn’t respond but sat there with her she tried again. “You don’t know me and I don’t know you. You’re better off not knowing me.” The man sat next to her and crossed his legs. “Hi, my name’s Trip Lindaur. It’s nice to meet you.” Markey just looked at him perplexed. “What’s the matter with you?” Trip threw his head back and roared with laughter. When he was finished he wiped the moisture from his eyes and smiled at her. “What’s your name?” Markey rolled her eyes and huffed. This guy obviously wasn’t going to give up easily. “Markey Neville,” she replied halfheartedly. “Markey? Interesting name for a woman.” “And Trip is a typical name?” she retorted. “Touché.” Trip looked up when he heard footsteps coming toward them. Instead of the police it was some of the people that had been inside the bank. From the corner of his eye he could see Markey shrink within herself and hide her face. Instinctively he slid his arm around her shoulders and felt her tense. One of the people was the woman in the red spandex pants. She knelt down in front of Markey and smiled. “Are you okay honey?” Markey’s mouth dropped open as she nodded her head. “Good. Look, we just wanted you to know that most of us have agreed on a story to tell the cops.” “Yeah,” the man in the business suit said. “We just wanted you to know that we won’t tell them what really happened.” Markey looked at Trip and then up at the faces of the people around her. “Why?” “Oh honey,” she said patting Markey’s hand, “who’d believe us?” “You aren’t afraid of me?” The group chuckled. “Afraid of you?” The spandex woman laughed. “Honey, you saved our lives, especially that precious little baby. Why would we be afraid of you?” Trip looked at the men in the group. “What is it you’re going to tell them?”
18
Force of Nature
“We decided that some kind of explosive must have been used. How else would everything get blown around like that?” Trip nodded his head. “Besides there was so much confusion no one is really sure what happened,” Business suit said then winked at Markey. “What about the rest of the people?” Trip asked. “They were so damn scared they didn’t see anything but the floor. Look, we just wanted you to know that we appreciate what you did, however you did it.” Markey stood on shaky legs and smiled at the group. “Thank you.” The group turned to leave when spandex woman turned. “Just so you know, there are about five news cameras outside. We aren’t sure how much they caught on tape.” Trip felt Markey sag next to him. “Thanks,” he said sliding his arm under Markey’s legs and scooping her into his arms. “I can walk,” she protested. “Really? Then how come your legs are like rubber?” “It was just hearing that news people may have seen what happened, that’s all. I’m fine. Put me down.” Trip looked into her light brown eyes. She felt good pressed against his body and she wasn’t nearly as heavy as her tall frame made her look. Deciding he was playing with fire, he let her legs drop to the floor. “Thank you.” The two walked together out the front door and into a sea of people. Cameras were shoved in front of their faces as the police ushered them toward a car. “Can you tell us what caused that incredible wind inside the building?” one reporter shouted. “How did that man fly up in the air?” another called out. “Tell us what happened inside.” The menagerie of people wanting information from them was staggering. Markey started to feel her body crash from the amount of energy she had expended. And this was going to be a bad crash. Already the dull headache was forming behind her eyes. “I need to get out of here.” Her hand reached out and grasped Trip’s. “What is it?” He could feel her hand shaking and her skin was paling. “I’m about to go into convulsions. It happens every time.” Trip rushed her through the crowd of reporters and toward the officer that had spoken with them inside. “I need to get her home. You can question her tomorrow.” One look into Markey’s face told the cop something was wrong. “You sure you don’t want to take her to the hospital?”
19
Robin Leigh Miller
“No, it’s a condition she has. She’ll be fine by tomorrow.” “Give me your name, telephone number and address.” Markey held herself together long enough to convey the information to the officer then headed for her car. “What do you think you’re doing?” Trip asked following her. “Going home.” It was taking everything she had to keep her body from falling apart and it would take even more to drive home. “I’ll drive,” Trip growled “You don’t where I live.” “You can tell me.” When Markey opened the driver’s side door Trip grabbed hold of her arm and whirled her around to face him. “Look, you can’t drive home in this condition Markey. If you could see yourself you’d understand. I’m not a lunatic that’s going to rob you or rape you. I just want to make sure you make it home.” Markey’s control was slipping. She could feel her legs wobble under her. He was right, there wasn’t any way she was going to be able to drive home. “Okay. Just make it fast.”
20
Force of Nature
Chapter Three Trip drove carefully out of town but when he reached the outskirts he pressed the accelerator to the floor. Markey was sweating profusely and her body was already quaking. Her skin was pale and her eyes stared blankly at the ceiling of the car. “Please hurry,” she moaned. “I can’t hold it off much longer.” Trip looked down at the odometer. If her directions were precise they only had three more miles to her place. “We’re almost there.” Those last three miles seemed like twenty. When Trip saw the wood-sided cabin alongside the road he slammed on the brakes and made a sharp turn. The car slid to a stop in front of the cabin. Before it stopped Trip was out and opening Markey’s door. He reached inside, scooped her up in his arms and carried her to the door. “It’s unlocked.” Her voice was faint and weak. With skill Trip used his hand that held her legs and turned the knob. When he stepped inside he looked around for a place to lay her. “Bedroom. I need the space.” Trip could feel her body coming apart in his arms. He rushed to the only other room in the cabin and placed her gently on the bed. “You can leave now.” “Not on your life.” Markey didn’t have the energy to argue. Finally she closed her eyes and let her body release the tension that was trapped deep inside. Trip stood by the bed and watched her legs bounce and shake. It moved its way up her torso, through her arms and into her neck. She bounced and thrashed so violently she nearly came off the bed. Trip knelt down beside her and placed the palm of his hand on her forehead. Heat radiated from her skin. “Jesus Markey,” he whispered. To keep her flailing arms and hands from beating him senseless he put his free arm over hers. It didn’t stop her wild swinging, but it kept him from being knocked unconscious. He watched her hands twist and ball into tight fists, her skin pulling so tight it turned white. Her wrists bent in a grotesque posture that made her look deformed. The violent convulsions had pulled her sweater above her flat belly. Trip glanced down and gasped. The muscles under her skin contracted and released like a snake that was propelling itself across the desert sand. Trip moved his eyes up to Markey’s face and his concern for her deepened when he witnessed her facial features morph right before his eyes. Her skin pulled tight across
21
Robin Leigh Miller
her cheekbones making her look like she had received bad plastic surgery. Her plump pink lips thinned and turned a ghostly shade of white. Drool seeped from the corner of her mouth. Her light brown eyes rolled back in her head giving her a zombie appearance. “Fuck.” Trip had never felt so helpless in his life and he didn’t like it. The torture this woman was going through was unbelievable and he couldn’t do a thing to help her. The whole episode lasted eight minutes. Gradually her body calmed, the kicking and swinging subsiding. Her hands relaxed along with the muscles in her face. Color began to trickle back into her lips and her eyes returned to their natural position. When she finally lay quiet Trip slid to his butt on the floor and took a deep breath. If he was this exhausted he could only imagine how depleted she must be. It was obvious she’d experienced this before and he couldn’t help wonder how much a body could take of that torture before simply giving up. Pity tugged at his heart. Did she go through this alone all the other times or was there someone to make sure she didn’t harm herself by flying off the bed? Trip rose from the floor and sat next to her on the bed. Her skin was still pale revealing a smattering of freckles across her nose and cheeks. Her dark brown eyelashes fanned across the tops of her cheeks. Trip couldn’t resist sliding the back of his finger across her pale freckled skin. As he brushed stray strands of hair away from her face, the pity he felt for her moments ago was replaced by something more tender. She looked more like an angel now than the distorted figure he witnessed. Markey’s breathing was heavy and deep. Her chest rose and fell in a steady rhythm easing Trip’s mind. He left her sleeping and wandered out of her room. The bathroom was right across from her bedroom so he went in and splashed some cold water on his face. The icy water revived him and helped him think a little more clearly. Trip pulled a washcloth from the shower and ran cool water on it and returned to her side. As gently as he could he ran the cloth over her face and swept away the perspiration that was still beaded on her skin. To his surprised she never flinched. Next he washed away the drool that was pooled at the corners of her mouth. Common sense said he should call the hospital and make sure he shouldn’t be doing something else for her. But deep inside he knew there wasn’t much that could be done. The episode was over and she seemed to be resting comfortably. He flipped the bedspread from the side of the bed and covered her. No doubt she’d become chilled after her body temperature had been so high. With nothing else to do except wait until she awoke, he decided he’d check out her home and see what he could learn about her. Trip wandered out into the small living room. There wasn’t much to it—it was only big enough for a love seat and a recliner. On the outer wall was small mountain stone fireplace with an oak mantel.
22
Force of Nature
Trip noted there wasn’t anything sitting on the mantel. Most people displayed photos of loved ones. A few magazines sat on an end table next to the love seat and a twelve-inch television was positioned next to the fireplace. A thick blue and white afghan was folded neatly and draped over the back of the love seat. Trip ran his hand over it and pictured Markey wrapped to her lovely long neck on cold evenings. He picked up the magazines and glanced briefly at the covers. They were just typical women’s magazines doling out advice on how to lose ten pounds in two weeks and sex secrets men love. Trip chuckled, he might have read that article. With not much to look at in the living room he took three steps into the kitchen. There he found only the basics—a sink, gas stove and a small refrigerator. The appliances looked fairly new and were remarkably clean. Over the sink was a small window that gave a picturesque view of the woods surrounding the cabin. Up against the wall was a square oak table big enough for two to dine at. It too looked new. As with the living room everything was tidy and clean. Trip perused her cupboards and was surprised to see how bare they were. A box of cereal, some instant macaroni and cheese, a few cans of soup and some other things he wasn’t sure about were scattered on the barren shelves. “Don’t eat much do you?” he muttered as he walked to the refrigerator. This was full of eggs, lunch meat, juice, bottled water and leftovers stacked neatly in plastic containers. Fresh vegetables took up one complete shelf. “Health nut,” he commented. In the freezer he found her few indulgences. A half gallon of chocolate ice cream that was three quarters full and some pastries were sitting on top of frozen dinners. From the looks of it she spent her evenings dining alone. Trip made note of this as well. “Okay, not much to see in here. Maybe there’s something to see outside.” He stepped out the front door and noticed she had a small porch that he hadn’t noticed when he carried her inside. A white rocking chair was the only thing sitting on it. Trip pushed the back of the chair and watched as it rocked back and forth. Another vision of Markey rocking on a warm Sunday afternoon filled his head. Trip spent about an hour wandering around outside finding nothing but a small stack of wood for the fireplace and a spotless garbage can. Since the sun was warm he took a brief walk through the woods behind her cabin. He found absolutely nothing. No discarded furniture, nothing she was trying to hide from the world just trees. His search of her car turned up the same thing. Aside from her car insurance paperwork and registration she had nothing but a tube of lipstick in her glove box. He pulled the keys from the ignition and opened the trunk to find more of the same, nothing, just a spare tire. Trip tucked all this information away in his head and went back inside the cabin. He peeked in on Markey and found her lying in exactly the same position she’d been over an hour ago. For his own peace of mind he walked to the bed and listened for her breathing. “Still alive,” he whispered to himself and left her to rest.
23
Robin Leigh Miller
For the next two hours Trip flipped through the channels on the television and laughed at the articles in Markey’s magazines. “Why on earth would a sexy woman like that need to read about finding a man?” he questioned allowed. Surely she must have men hitting on her constantly. Trip remembered walking into the bank and spotting her instantly. He wasn’t the only man to notice her. Every man in the place turned his head in her direction. Who wouldn’t with all that chestnut brown hair cascading in thick waves down the middle of her back. Her light brown eyes were framed with thick dark lashes that gave her a warm sensual look. Then there were those long legs that went all the way to her toned ass. Trip couldn’t help envying the denim jeans that wrapped snugly around her thighs and perfectly shaped buns. The peach sweater she was wearing fit snugly as well. She wasn’t overly endowed in the breast area, but then Trip always did think more than a mouthful was a waste. All in all, Markey Neville was sexy woman. Trip drew his eyebrows together, a sexy woman with a dangerous gift. Was that why there weren’t any photos of friends or relatives in her cabin? Was she a ticking time bomb ready to explode at any moment? Or was it that she was afraid to be close to anyone? The big question was should he really care? A moan drifted from the bedroom door. Trip jumped from the love seat and walked to the door. He peeked inside and saw Markey stretching across the bed. She had pushed the comforter aside allowing an enticing view of her long lean body arching on the mattress. Trip felt a tightening in his groin and cursed himself. This wasn’t the lady to be getting a hard-on for he reminded himself. When the tightening dissipated he stepped through the door. “Hi,” he said with a smile. Markey stiffened and looked toward him. “What are you still doing here?” Trip noticed her voice was week and sounded raw. Her eyes were bloodshot and watery. “I just wanted to make sure you’re all right.” He said walking to the bed. “That was some episode you had.” “You saw it?” When Trip nodded his head she closed her eyes and moaned again. She began rubbing her forehead with great pressure. “Headache?” he asked as he sat next to her. “Yeah. They usually aren’t this bad. I can hardly see straight.” “Tell me where you keep your aspirin.” Markey didn’t want his help, she wanted to be alone and suffer in peace. “Why are you doing this?” “Doing what?” He kept his tone gentle.
24
Force of Nature
“This. Helping me?” The pain in her head was growing. She felt like her eyes would pop out of her head if she opened them. “Aspirin, Markey. I can see you’re in agony, let me help you.” Not wanting or having the strength to argue she told him where he could find her bottle of aspirin. It didn’t take him long to return with four tablets and a glass of water. Markey swallowed them and then drifted back to sleep. Trip went back out in the living room and forced himself to forget how vulnerable she looked lying there in pain. He couldn’t afford to feel anything for her, it would just screw things up. He laid his head back and drifted into a fitful sleep. Two hours later Trip awoke to the sound of something crashing to the floor in the bedroom. Fearing she’d gone into another attack he darted to the bedroom. Relief swept through him when he found her sitting on the edge of the bed. She had apparently knocked the glass of water to the floor. Markey looked up and met Trip’s eyes. “Still here?” “Still here, how do you feel?” Trip folded his arms across his chest and leaned against the door jamb. Markey smiled at him. “Like hell.” Truth was she didn’t feel as bad as she thought she would. Her muscles were stiff and sore, but a hot shower would help that and her head wasn’t pounding nearly as badly as it had been earlier. It must have been the four aspirin he’d given her. Usually she didn’t have the strength to get them for herself so she just lay and suffered. Even though she kept a bottle in her nightstand her ability to open it was severely hindered by the weakness that overtook her body after such an episode. Her stomach twisted and growled loudly enough for Trip to hear. “How about you get a hot shower and I’ll fix you something to eat,” he said chuckling. His kindness made Markey uncomfortable. “You don’t have to do that. I can take care of myself.” “I’m sure you can, but I’m offering to help and it’s something I don’t do very often. Why don’t you take advantage of it?” “I don’t know you,” she said with some uncertainty in her voice. Trip understood what she meant. “Markey, you’ve been basically unconscious for about five, six hours at the most. I haven’t done anything but try to help you in that time.” When she looked away from him he continued. “I don’t harm women Markey. I’m a great lover of women and loathe any man that forces himself on a woman. You’ve been through hell today and I just want to make sure you’re going to be okay.” She didn’t know why but she believed him. Maybe it was because her defenses were down, she didn’t know but she wanted to believe him. “Okay.” God help her and him if she was wrong.
25
Robin Leigh Miller
“Good. Now steam some of that stiffness out your body and I’ll fix you something hot to eat.” Trip backed out the room and waited until he heard the water turn on in the bathroom then set out to find her some hot food.
26
Force of Nature
Chapter Four Markey turned the shower on and leaned against the sink. Trip had her thoroughly confused. Why was he being so kind to her? Why did he stay when all he had to do was drop her off at home then leave? And most importantly, why did she want to trust him so much? Steam billowed from the shower and warmed the bathroom. Once the heat began to seep into her body she stripped off her clothes and stepped under the hot spray of water. Her stiff sore muscles melted as the water beat against her skin. Hoping to wash away the last of her headache she stuck her face into the full force of the spray. The water pelting her cheeks and forehead eased the tension behind her eyes. Her mind wandered back to Trip as she basked in the hot steamy water. The only thing she knew about him was the sound of his voice. Replaying the day’s events in her head she couldn’t remember much more about him. At the bank there was too much commotion for her to concentrate on anything except the anger building uncontrollably inside her. He seemed incredibly understanding, not even flinching as he helped her direct her energy out of the building. Why was it that when everyone else ran the opposite direction, he dug in and stuck? And what was with the people inside the bank? Instead of telling the media what had really happened they covered for her? “Easy Markey,” she warned herself. “If it looks too good to be true it probably is.” By tomorrow everything could go south. Before the water could cool on her she soaped herself down and rinsed. When she stepped from the shower she grabbed her favorite towel and wrapped it around her body. She had to admit she felt human again. Leery of leaving a stranger in her kitchen alone, she hustled from the bathroom back to her bedroom. Markey pulled a clean pair of jeans and an oversized sweatshirt from her drawers and dressed. After pulling a brush through her hair a few times she looked in the mirror and decided she looked normal. Now it was time to play nice with Trip. She tiptoed out of the bedroom and came to a dead stop when she saw Trip standing at her stove. The first thing she noticed about him was his long dirty-blond hair that was pulled into a ponytail at the base of his neck. Markey judged his hair to be about as long as hers, hanging neatly between his shoulders. His arms were thick but not so thick that he looked like a weight lifter. A funny tingle settled in her stomach as she thought about those arms carrying her to her bed. Funny, she thought to herself, I didn’t think I liked muscular men. Pushing that thought aside, she let her eyes wander down his back to where his hips narrowed at the waist.
27
Robin Leigh Miller
Loose black denim jeans accentuated his obviously toned ass. Heat flared through Markey’s body. Oh God, she thought quietly, he’s perfect. “Are you going to stand there and stare all night, or do you want something to eat?” There was a bit of humor in his voice that startled Markey. She pulled herself together and walked toward him. When he turned and smiled at her she stopped in her tracks. The sparkle in his hazel eyes dazzled her. He was the kind of man that wore his emotions for everyone to see right there in his eyes. Markey let her eyes roam over his face. His nose had a small hump in the middle like it had been broken once or twice. His jaw was square, strong and his mouth was, well, perfect. Dimples set his whole face off when he smiled. “Like what you see?” he asked laughing. Markey mentally shook herself. “Sorry, it’s just that I suddenly realized that I had no idea what you looked like.” When Trip’s smile grew wider she quickly continued, “There was so much going on today at the bank and then I started to crash, well.” She rubbed her face with her hands. “I realized the only thing I knew about you was the sound of your voice.” God she hoped that didn’t sound lame. Trip laid his hand gently on her shoulder. “It’s okay, I understand. You had a lot going on inside your head.” There he goes again with the understanding she thought. How understanding can one man be? “Well, I just wanted to say thank you, for everything.” Trip carried a steaming bowl of soup to the table. “You don’t need to thank me, I’m only doing what anyone else would do.” Markey walked to the table and stood in front of him. “See that’s just it. No one else would. No one else ever has.” Trip saw confusion and sadness in her eyes and then felt his heart tip inside his chest. The feeling was strange and nice at the same time. Something he didn’t recognize so he ignored it and walked away from her. “Sit down and eat something Markey. You must be starving.” She sat without another word and began eating her soup. Trip watched her lift her spoon to her mouth and slide it between her lips. God she was a vision. Her faded jeans hugged her long legs. The baggy sweatshirt, which he was sure she put on intentionally so she wouldn’t look so alluring, made her look even sexier. His eyes drifted down to the floor to her bare feet. For her tall stature they were small and very feminine. Red nail polish adorned her straight toes. Stop it, he screamed inside his head, you can’t do this. As if hearing him, Markey turned her head and looked at him. “Is everything all right?” “Yeah, fine. How’s your soup?” Trip put on another big smile and carried his bowl over to the table to join her.
28
Force of Nature
Markey looked at his smile and then into his eyes. Something was wrong, his face smiled but his eyes looked troubled. The hairs on the back of her neck stood up. “The soup’s great, thank you.” Two could play this game. They ate silently, each stealing a glance at the other every chance they could. “You have a nice little place here,” Trip finally said setting his spoon down. “I like it. Where do you live?” When Trip didn’t answer Markey tipped her head to the side and narrowed her eyes. Something wasn’t right. “Trip?” “Well, I don’t really have a permanent address. I go were the work is.” No point in lying, the truth was much easier to keep up with. “What kind of work do you do?” Markey pulled her knees up to her chest and rested the heels of her feet on the chair. He knew this question was coming and decided to stick with the basic truth. “Anything that pays.” A drifter she thought to herself, great. “So you’re what, a jack of all trades?” “Something like that.” Short answers are not a good sign. Markey began to feel uncomfortable and was about to suggest he leave when his eyes lit up. “Tell me, how did a pretty woman like you get a name like Markey?” Markey hesitated then decided maybe she had read too much into his silence about himself. She didn’t like talking about herself that much either. “My dad wanted a boy, already had the name Mark picked out. To his surprise he was blessed with a girl. “ “He couldn’t find a girl’s name?” “I guess he had his heart set on Mark, so Mom conformed.” “Did he treat you like a boy? I mean, he treated you well didn’t he?” Markey saw actual concern in his eyes as he spoke, it softened her concerns. “My dad was great. He pampered me constantly. Always bringing me a new doll or a pretty new dress. Mom said it was to make up for the boyish name.” Trip’s concern faded when he heard the affection in her voice. “What about you? How did you get the name Trip?” she asked grinning at him. Trip gave a soft chuckle. “My mother told me it was because she was on a trip when she conceived me and I don’t mean a vacation.” “That’s terrible!” The words were out before Markey could stop them. “I’m sorry, that was cruel.” “It’s okay. I kind of like it. It’s different, I like things that are different.” His eyes locked on hers and for a brief moment felt connected to the beautiful woman sitting across from him. His heart did that funny little tip thing again startling him. Not liking it one bit he pulled his gaze away from hers. “Tell me something, how long have you been able to manipulate the air the way you do?” 29
Robin Leigh Miller
Markey’s nerves bristled. She didn’t want to talk about it, but he’d been so kind to her she felt she owed him some sort of explanation. “Since I was kid. I guess the first time it happened was when a little girl who lived down the road from us took my new doll my dad had given me. I got so mad and before I knew it I couldn’t control it. I lifted her up in the air and nearly let her fall to her death. If my mother hadn’t walked out the door and caught my attention, I would have killed her over a silly plastic doll.” “Did you crash after that, like you did today?” Trip watched her rock back and forth in her chair as she recalled the event. “Yep. Of course it wasn’t anything like it is now. The older I got the more powerful everything became. After my second episode a year later my mom and dad removed me from school and home-schooled me. They felt I was becoming a danger to society.” “What?” “Don’t blame them. I almost killed a girl for butting in the lunch line. I really had no idea how to control my anger as a kid.” “So, this is all brought on by anger? You can’t do it any other time?” Markey sighed. “No.” “What about today? I mean, you were fine and then all suddenly you were…” Markey cut him off. “It wasn’t sudden. When he hit the old man it started. By the time he came after the young mother and baby it was almost in full force.” “But you can direct it?” “Yeah.” “Markey, you said it hurt. What did you mean by that?” She laid her forehead on her knees. “It feels like my insides are being pulled apart. Today, it was worse than I ever felt before.” She lifted her face and looked him square in the eye. “I imagine one day it will kill me.” The matter-of-fact tone sent chills down his spine. How did someone live each day wondering if the next bout of anger would be their final undoing? Especially someone so beautiful. Trip reached out across the table and pried one of her hands free from around her legs. He linked his fingers through hers. “Isn’t there anyone you go to for help?” Markey looked across the table at him. “Who? You think you find a doctor for this sort of thing in the phone book? The only thing I can do is try to stay away from people and situations that make me angry.” “That’s a lonely life,” he said squeezing her hand. “Yes it is.” Markey shivered. She wasn’t sure if it had to do with Trip’s large, strong hand in hers or the fact that it was late afternoon and the air was cooling off. “You’re cold. I saw your wood pile out back. How about I start a fire for you?” He needed to do something. Holding her hand was a big mistake. His heart quit tipping inside his chest, now it was doing a complete three-sixty.
30
Force of Nature
“You don’t need to do that. I’m sure you have places to go and things to do.” Markey pulled her hand free from his and tucked it between her legs and tummy. “Markey, I can’t really go anywhere. My ride is back at the bank. I drove you here in your car.” A smile played at the corners of his mouth. “Oh God, I completely forgot. I’ll drive you back to town,” she said jumping from the chair. “You aren’t in any condition to be driving.” “Nonsense, I’m fine.” She took one step toward the bedroom and swayed. Her head spun and her knees buckled. Trip covered the distance between them in three strides, reaching her before she hit the floor. He wrapped his arms around her waist with a firm grip. Markey’s face turned up toward his. One again she saw genuine concern in his eyes. “You were saying?” “I guess I am still a little week.” Markey shrieked when he scooped her up in his arms and carried her to the love seat. To her surprise, he sat her down carefully then covered her with the afghan. “You take it easy and I’ll bring some wood in. A nice warm fire is just what the doctor ordered.” Before she could protest again, he made his way out the front door and disappeared. Markey stared at the closed door. After spending years dealing with this nightmare alone, this stranger walked into her life and treated her like she was something special. Why, what did he have to gain from it? Surely he wasn’t being nice just for the sake of being nice? After all the traveling she’d done she had never run into anyone like him. Markey huffed in frustration and then rubbed her tired eyes. Maybe she was being too hard on the man. Maybe all these years of being shunned for what she was had made her too hard. But her thoughts kept coming back to the same question. What was in it for him? She really didn’t have any money and who in their right mind would want to be around a person that could kill if she lost control? The questions continued to swirl in her mind. The dull headache started to return behind her eyes. “Stop it,” she scolded herself. Deciding to just deal with what came next when it came, she settled back into the love seat and snuggled under the afghan. What was wrong with letting someone pamper her a little, if even for just a few hours? The front door burst open and Trip walked in with three logs tucked in his arms. “It’s getting cold out there.” He walked to the fireplace and dumped the logs then returned to shut the door. Markey watched him move around her cabin in silence, amazed at how he made himself at home. While he knelt in front of the fire place and manipulated the logs into position, she took stock of him once again. The ponytail looked out of place on a man
31
Robin Leigh Miller
like him. To her he looked more like a man who should have short cropped hair, but then her experience with men and what they looked like was nil. Her gaze drifted down to his back and arms. Underneath the denim long-sleeved shirt he wore she could see his back muscles stretch and contract. There wasn’t an ounce of fat on this man anywhere. Markey briefly wondered if he worked with weights then brushed that thought aside. Why would it matter to her? Trip leaned forward to blow on the burning embers and positioned himself on his hands and knees giving Markey an excellent view of his hindquarters. Her heart began a staccato rhythm that nearly took her breath away. Heat began to build between her legs shocking her. “It won’t be long now and you’ll have some heat,” he told her with his back to her. Oh my God, Markey whispered inside her head, any more heat in this room and she’d be sweating buckets. Honestly she couldn’t remember reacting this way to a man ever in her life. What was it about him that made her so damned hot? Trip stood brushing his hands on his jeans and then turned and smiled at her. Markey quickly averted her eyes to the small fire that was crackling to life. She couldn’t have him seeing her ogling him again and giving him get the wrong idea. The flushed look on Markey’s cheeks and the blank look in her eyes worried Trip. He wasn’t convinced she had recovered from her shocking episode earlier. He thought maybe a nice casual conversation would help bring her back to life.
***** “Ya know, I’ve been all over this country,” Trip said casually, “but nothing beats the colors of fall in the East.” He flopped down on the love seat next to her and made himself comfortable. Unnerved by his close proximately, Markey drew her legs up to her chest and tugged the afghan closer to her body. Trip waited for some kind of reply. He snuck a peek at her from the corner of his eye only to see her staring blankly at him. He knew the problem, she was confused by his presence. He had seen it enough in his work. “Relax, Markey, I’m not going to hurt you.” “What do you want from me?” The question threw Trip for just a second. His mind raced to come up with an honest, straight answer. Markey watched his face for some kind of reaction, but he continued to sit there calm and collected. “I don’t want anything from you.” It was the truth. “I don’t know—we went through something awful together today and I just wanted someone to hang with.” He turned toward her, sliding his leg up on the couch. “I’m worried about you too.” “Why?” 32
Force of Nature
Trip chuckled and looked toward the fire, which was beginning to burn with full gusto. “It’s not every day you see someone send a bank robber floating into the air and then their body nearly tear them apart from the force of it.” “Everyone else runs when they see what I can do. Why aren’t you?” Markey kept her eyes pinned to his face waiting to read any shift in emotion he might show. Trip kept his eyes on the fire but the relaxed muscles in his face tensed. Markey noticed the change immediately. Now she was getting somewhere. “I’ve seen a lot of strange things in my life. Some sick stuff too. Most of it makes you look like a pussycat.” Markey’s head tipped to the side as she wondered what he could have seen that would make a woman who could manipulate the air the way she did look so tame. “Come on Trip. You can’t possibly tell me you’ve seen anything like me?” She watched as his profile hardened and his eyes narrowed on the fire. “I’m a freak Trip. How many true freaks have you seen in your life?” Trip sat quietly for what seemed to Markey like minutes before he spoke without looking at her. “The dictionary says the word humanity means kindness. In my dictionary humanity means depraved, vicious and deadly. I’ve seen humanity at its worst and let me tell you, you’ve never seen anything like it. You take your worst horror movie and intensify that ten times and you’ll understand what I’m talking about.” He turned to toward her and saw the chilled look on her face. He cursed himself for scaring her. “As for you, freak doesn’t come close to describing you.” Markey felt her breath lodge in her chest. Was he about to label her with another hurtful word? “You sweetheart are a force of nature.” Trip smiled when her eyes grew large and surprised. “You have been given some kind of a gift. Unfortunately you’ve never had anyone teach you how to use it so it torments you. I’d be willing to bet if you learned how to use it, control it better you wouldn’t feel like a freak.” She couldn’t believe what she was hearing. A gift? Was he serious? Didn’t he see how she suffered in the aftermath? Hadn’t she told him what it felt like when it was happening? Her own mother told her she was cursed. Words were racing around in her head but she couldn’t put them together to form a sentence. All she could do was shake her head back and forth. This guy wasn’t playing with a full deck. All of a sudden Trip burst into laughter. Markey felt it rumble through her body and fill empty spaces she never knew she had. Its rich deep sound filled her with a comfort that somehow seemed familiar. “I’m sorry.” Trip laughed. “If you could see your face. My God woman, I gave you a compliment and you look like I just stuck a knife into you.”
33
Robin Leigh Miller
She was still trying to understand the tingly feeling flowing through her body. If she opened her mouth now she might sound like some love sick teenager that just received a passing glance by the jock of the school. Trip’s laughter died as he watched her face run a range of emotions from appalled to horrified and then bewilderment. Her brown eyes sparkled in from the reflection of the flames in the fireplace. Her fair skin was growing flush by the second. She honestly couldn’t understand what he was saying. “Markey, hasn’t anyone ever told you how special you are?” “Special?” The word came out in a squeak. “Let’s see, freak, cursed, abomination, phenomenon, witch. Oh, let’s not forget all those wonderful ways people have come up with to destroy me. There was burn me at the stake, tie cinder blocks to my feet and drown me, decapitate me and my personal favorite, drawn and quartered and then have my remains spread out across the Earth. Nope, can’t say the word special ever came up.” Markey slid from the love seat, unwrapped herself from the afghan and went to the kitchen to get a drink. She could feel that all too familiar feeling in the pit of her stomach as it churned and boiled like a pot of soup. He had made her angry and she needed to stop it. “Well, so much for the friendly conversation plan,” Trip muttered to himself. His own anger was igniting. Once again the human race had proven his point. “But now that he had her talking, he wanted to know more. “Who told you all these things?” Markey removed a bottle of water from the fridge and took a long draw on it. The cold explosion in her throat helped temper the boiling caldron in her gut. “Just about anyone I’ve come across,” she finally answered. “You must pick some really dumb ass friends then.” Laughter bubbled up from where the anger had been simmering. Markey let it flow up her throat and out her mouth. She didn’t know why she found the statement so funny and right now she didn’t care. He had managed to defuse the ticking time bomb deep inside her with just a few words. “I’m sorry Trip,” she said as she grabbed another bottle of water for him, “I didn’t mean to jump down your throat.” Markey walked back over to him and plopped down on the love seat, crossing her legs and facing him. “You’re the first person I’ve ever come across that hasn’t called a witch hunt.” She tossed him the bottle and smiled. Trip caught the bottle and smiled back at her. “No, I should be the one apologizing. I didn’t realize you had it so bad.” “Don’t worry about it.” “You said earlier that your parents home-schooled you, surely they weren’t afraid of you?”
34
Force of Nature
“On the contrary, my parents were the ones that wanted me drawn and quartered.” The old pain of hearing her mother’s voice say the words washed over her but she physically shook them off. Trip must have thought she was still chilled. He slid from the love seat and tossed another log on the fire then returned to her side. “You’re joking?” When Markey shook her head Trip said the only thing he could think of. “I’m sorry.” “Don’t be. Other than thinking I was some kind of child from hell, they were pretty good to me. I guess in retrospect it was to keep me from getting angry at them, but I chose to believe they still loved me.” Trip was amazed. Her own parents wanted her dead, but she refused to see it, instead remembering only the good about them. “Where are they now?” “Dead.” Trip was taken back by the simple one-word answer given so casually. Then his mind began leading him to believe she could have killed them. His face must have shown his thoughts, because she laughed. “Don’t worry, I didn’t do it. They died in a plane crash. I had saved enough money to send them on a real vacation, the first since their honeymoon. The authorities said something went wrong with flaps on the wings, the plane crashed into the side of a mountain.” Jesus, Trip thought to himself, how much can one person take? “I didn’t understand it,” she continued, “but it was accident.” Trip was stunned at how casually she explained it. When Markey looked at him she knew what he was thinking. How could someone speak of such an incident so matterof-fact? Well, that was too bad, he’d just have to keep thinking that. He didn’t need to know that when the phone call came she destroyed her apartment and not from anger but grief. He didn’t need to know that she considered taking her own life, even if it was for about five seconds, because she couldn’t bear the thought of living alone the rest of her life. He also didn’t need to know that the pain still lingered just below the surface and that speaking of it with such a carefree attitude helped stop it from resurfacing. “You haven’t had it easy have you?” “No and it seems to get worse the harder I try to be normal.” Markey eased from the love seat and looked down at him. “I’m still hungry, would you like some popcorn?” Once again Trip was amazed at how she managed to change gears so fast. “Sure.” “Why don’t you see what’s on the television while I make it?” she said walking away from him. Trip looked at his watch to see what time it was. Three o’clock in the afternoon, what could possibly be on that was interesting. But to make her happy he picked up the remote and watched the TV blink to life. He could smell the popcorn drift through the room, giving the place a real homey feeling. He could think of worse ways to spend an
35
Robin Leigh Miller
afternoon. How many men got to waste an afternoon with a beautiful woman a bowl of popcorn and a nice cozy fire? Not many he bet. “Would you like a soda with it? I can’t eat popcorn without a tall glass of soda,” she asked from the kitchen. “That sounds good, thanks.” Trip found an old movie playing, one he hadn’t seen in years. Some kid skipped school with two of his friends and spent the day trying to keep from getting caught while they had as much fun as possible. “I haven’t seen this movie in a long time.” Markey remarked as she sat back down next to Trip and handed him his soda. “Good, neither have I.” Trip tossed the remote down and settled in. Over the next two hours they laughed together like old friends. Trip felt more at home here in this little cabin with her than he did when he was with his own family. That should have been an alarm to him but he chose to ignore it for now. The way her face lit up when she let her warm sexy laugh flow made his skin tingle. A pleasant feeling he wanted to enjoy for a while longer. Trip could tell Markey was relaxed as well. Her body language had changed little by little over the course of the movie. When it started she sat with a tense posture, her back board stiff, her chin elevated and her hands clasped together. Now she was sitting with her legs tucked up under her rear, her hands were busy digging into the popcorn bowl and her face glowed with a pink hue from her laughter. When the movie ended Markey turned to Trip. “Thank you.” His breath caught in his chest when he turned and saw her light brown eyes sparkling. Her soft lips were curved into a warm inviting smile, accenting the freckles that were dotting her nose and cheeks. Beautiful he thought to himself, she had to be the most beautiful woman he’d ever laid eyes on. “For what?” “For everything, bringing me home, staying to make sure I was all right, that great old movie.” The companionship, she finished inside her head, that wasn’t something she got a lot of these days. “There’s no need to thank me. I’m glad my meager offerings helped.” Markey looked into his eyes and saw he was sincere. “I guess you’ll be moving on in the morning?” The way he was looking at her with hungry eyes made her feel warm and sexy, another feeling that foreign to her. “I don’t know, I thought I’d look around and see if there were any jobs available, stick around for a while.” Truth was this town was just a rest stop for him this morning, but that was the nice part of his life. He could change plans in the blink of an eye. Markey tried to hide her pleased smile. “Oh, I’m sure you won’t have any trouble if you aren’t picky.” While they talked the five o’clock news had started. Their conversation was interrupted when Markey heard the anchorwoman speak. “Tonight’s lead story is a
36
Force of Nature
bank robbery in the town of Roanoke. Three armed, masked men entered the First Bank of Roanoke shortly after eight this morning.” Markey and Trip quickly turned their attention back to the TV. “Mike Johns is in Roanoke with the story.” The screen changed from the perfectly manicured anchorwoman to a young blond man dressed in a blue button-down shirt and navy slacks standing in front of the taped off bank. “Stephanie, police say that three armed men entered the bank with black ski masks and guns. They ordered all the patrons of the bank down on the floor then tossed plastic bags to the tellers and demanded they be filled. Two people that had come to do their banking this morning were injured. One was an elderly gentleman and the other a young woman who was inside the bank with her eight-month-old daughter.” “Their names have not been released to the media but police say they were taken to local hospitals, treated for their injuries and then released.” “Thank God,” Markey whispered. “Now what is strange about this case is that witnesses out side the bank said some peculiar things seemed to be going on inside. A strange wild wind kicked up inside the bank, paper and debris could be seen spiraling around like a mini tornado. Victims inside the bank would only say that the bank robbers must have set off some kind of explosive, but police are saying there is no evidence of explosives.” “We have found a citizen who filmed the happenings and we’d like to show that to you now.” Trip clenched his jaw in anticipation and hoped that the footage would be the grainy, unsteady kind that revealed nothing but an obscure vision of the front of the bank. When the tape rolled Trip closed his eyes and groaned. To his surprise the film was crystal clear and not of the front of the bank. The citizen who took the film obviously knew how to work a camera. It had zoomed in on the doors and showed an incredibly clear picture of the debris whipping around inside the bank. In the center of the storm stood Markey. It showed Markey raising her arms toward the head bank robber and the wind lifting him into the air. An odd orange glow emanated from her body making her look like something from a horror movie. Her long chestnut hair merely bounced around her face instead of whipping wildly in the wind. The next scene showed Trip struggling through the mini tornado toward Markey, placing his hands on her shoulders. The madness calmed around them as the commotion directed toward the back of the bank, funneling out the window and dissipating into the open air. The shot cut abruptly and then switched to a shot of Markey and Trip walking out of the bank. Markey looked pale and tired. Trip had his arm curved around her waist. The young blond reporter filled the screen again. “No one can identify the woman in this clip, but when we do we will expand on this story. Right now the three gunmen are locked up in the county jail pending charges.” 37
Robin Leigh Miller
“Mike, that whole scene looked like something supernatural. Has anyone that was inside the bank commented on it,” the anchorwoman asked. “No Stephanie, they say they have no idea what happened, that they were so terrified for their lives all they could do was cower in fear.” “Well this certainly is an interesting story. I trust you will do what you’re best at and find us the answers.” “You can count on it Stephanie.” When the anchor woman moved on to the next story Trip glanced over at Markey. She gone pale again and her hands were shaking in her lap. Of all the damn luck he thought to himself, someone had to catch the event on film and it had to be broadcast to the whole town. As he watched her struggle with what she had just seen, he felt a strong urge to reach out and wrap her in his arms. Better yet, he wanted to whisk her away and hide her from that damn reporter who would no doubt come knocking on her door before too long. Trip had dealt with eager reporters before. They could ruin a person’s life without caring and move on to the next victim in their race to the top of the ladder. A single tear rolled down Markey’s cheek and dripped off her chin into her lap. That single tear tore all of Trip’s control to pieces. He scooted over next to her and ran his hand down the back of her head and through her silky soft hair. “Markey?” “I’ll have to leave now.” Her voice was faint and flat, no emotion reflected in her words, but her face screamed desperation. “Don’t jump ahead yet. Let’s wait and see what happens.” Trip reached out and took her chin in his hand. When he turned her face toward him he gazed into empty eyes. The sparkle that had been there before was just a distant memory. “The people in the bank kept their word, they didn’t say anything. All they have is a video tape that could be considered doctored. We could always say that this person was looking for his fifteen minutes of fame.” Trip’s words did little to soothe her heartbreak. It didn’t matter if they disclaimed the video, people would still treat her like a freak. She had lived through this several times, this time would be no different. “It won’t matter.” Wanting to smooth away the cold desperate look on her face, he ran the backs of his fingers down her cheek. To his surprise she leaned slightly into his touch. That little movement was all the encouragement he needed. Trip laid both his palms on each side of her face and looked her square in the eye. “I won’t let them get to you Markey, I promise. I’ve dealt with reporters before, I know how they work. We’ll get through this.” It took a moment but his words finally seeped into Markey’s brain. “What do you mean we’ll get through this?” she asked emphasizing the word we’ll. “There is no we. This is my problem not yours.” Trip’s thumbs lightly caressed her skin. “Let me help you. I want to help you.”
38
Force of Nature
His touch was creating havoc with Markey’s nerves and brain. She had known this man for half a day and yet he could make her body react with a simple graze of his finger. While her brain screamed, “Pack your things and run,” her body begged to get closer to this him and feel his protective warmth. “How?” The word was out of her mouth before she could stop it. She must be crazy believing he really wanted to help her. “I don’t know yet, but I’ll think of something.” His mouth had somehow gotten only a breath away from hers. The urge to close the distance and press his lips to hers was stronger than anything he’d ever encountered. Markey’s skin grew warm under the palms of his hands. Her blood raced hot through her veins as she stared at his enticing mouth. A white hot burn sparked to life between her legs. She could tell Trip wanted it just as much as she did. His breath was brushing her skin in warm waves, feeding her inner fire. Markey reached up and laid the palm of her hand on his cheek, feeling his light beard stubble against the softness of her skin. Her thumb swept over his lips with a gentle touch, as it did she felt his jaw tense. Thinking she’d done something wrong she snatched her hand away. “I’m sorry.” Markey pulled away from him and pressed herself against the back of the love seat. She didn’t know whether to curse her inexperience or be grateful. This was no time to be indulging in personal pleasure. Confused, Trip stared at her. Common sense slowly pushed aside desire and he blew out a relieved sigh. He was losing focus and that meant trouble. “I think I have an idea. If I can barrow your car, I’d like to run into town for a few moments.” Markey spared a glance at him. It didn’t take him long to recover from that close encounter she thought to herself. “What do you have in mind?” “I don’t want to say yet. I promise I won’t steal your car and I’ll be back within the hour, hopefully with good news.” At that moment Trip’s cell phone vibrated in his front pocket. He had a pretty good idea who it was and chose to ignore it. “Sure, why not,” Markey huffed as she scrubbed her face with her hands. While he was gone she could begin packing her paltry belongings and be ready to run when he returned with her car. Trip tipped her face up toward his and smiled. “Have faith sweetheart.” Then he slid from the couch grabbed his leather jacket and walked out the front door. Markey didn’t bother watching him leave. The cold air from the late afternoon rushed into the room when he opened the door. The bright orange flames of the fire danced in the breeze. Markey watched their seductive dance and was reminded of the film she’d seen of herself on the news. The color that radiated around her in that clip bore a close resemblance to the flames in the fireplace. No wonder everyone feared her. It was bad enough she could create a tornado around everyone, now she glowed like one of those glow sticks kids carried around at Halloween. 39
Robin Leigh Miller
Her heart sank deep in her chest. She hated the thought of leaving this town. It had suited her so perfectly. “Damn those men,” she whispered to herself. If they had picked another bank to rob this morning none of this would have happened. A log on the fire popped and rolled in the fireplace. She would miss this cabin most of all. It wasn’t much to look at and there wasn’t a lot of space inside, but she felt safe and secure in it. “Oh Mom, maybe you were right.” Her mother would occasionally tell her that she should never have been born. And then there was the time the poor woman was at her wit’s end with Markey’s destructive anger and lashed out at her with words that would haunt Markey forever. “If we lived in different times they would draw and quarter you. Your body parts would be taken to different locations of the world to make sure your spirit would never find them again and I would be right there making sure it was done right.” At the time Markey didn’t understand what she was saying, but as she grew older the meaning became clear. Oh, her mother apologized for the hurtful words shortly after they were spoken, but they still rang in her heart as if they were said today. Trip’s words replayed inside her head as if to console her. “You’re a force of nature.” Why didn’t he consider her a freak when her own mother did? And what kind of work did he do that would expose him to humanity’s scum? “Doesn’t matter,” she said shaking her head. None of it mattered anymore. Dread and sorrow reached her bones as she left the love seat to retrieve the boxes she used to pack when she had to make a quick escape. It didn’t take her long to fill the boxes. When someone was on the run every couple of months they didn’t have time to collect much in the way of knickknacks. The only bulky things she had were her dishes and over time she had devised a system that made packing those a breeze. She would wrap her few place settings in her sweaters and T-shirts then tuck them into the boxes all safe and secure. The few pots, pans and glasses she had were dealt with in the same manner. Markey filled the sink with warm soapy water and washed up all the dirty dishes from this morning and this afternoon. Once they were packed, she pulled her makeup bag out and began unloading the medicine cabinet. Since she didn’t wear much makeup there was plenty of room for her female toiletries. As she filled each box she scooted it across the floor to the door and pushed it out of the way with her foot. When the last box was filled and in place next to the door, Markey turned and scanned the empty cabin. Sadness overwhelmed her, tearing at her heart. “It isn’t fair. It just isn’t fair.” Fat tears streamed down her face. While Markey was once again packing her life into a few boxes, Trip was sitting in her car downtown making a phone call.
40
Force of Nature
“Thorton, its Trip Lindaur.” Trip sat and listened to the man on the other end. “I know, but I had to take care of some things first.” Trip listened more and rolled his eyes as the man spoke. “Tomorrow morning about ten a.m.” The phone disconnected and Trip felt an uneasy feeling creep into his gut. As he did so many times before, he focused on how his bank account would grow when this job was over. One last task to take care of and he could make the drive back to Markey’s place and tell her his plan. He hoped he could convince her it was the right thing to do. No, there wasn’t any hoping about it, he would convince her. Headlights shimmered through the cabin indicating Trip had returned from town. Markey wiped the tears from her face and shuffled back to the bathroom to splash cold water on her face. She heard the front door open and felt the cool air rush across her feet. “Markey, you still here?” Trip looked down at the boxes and then glanced around the empty room. “Don’t waste any time do you?” he commented to himself. Markey walked out of the bathroom with a plastic smile on her face. Trip looked at her and instantly knew she had been crying. He wanted to rush across the room and hold her close to him, so he stayed put. “Did you take care of what you needed to?” she asked trying to keep her voice from quivering. “Yeah, why don’t we sit down, I’d like to talk to you.” When they were both seated on the love seat Trip positioned himself so he was facing her. “I know this guy who might be able to help you.” Markey felt like she’d been slapped. Had she heard him right? Trip watched her eyes enlarge to large brown jewels. Maybe he shouldn’t have been so direct. “Really, he’s kind of a scientist that specializes in paranormal stuff. I think he may have some insight on your situation.” Markey didn’t know what to say. It was all surreal. “Say something sweetheart.” “I don’t know what to say.” “I think you should meet him, talk to him and see what he has to say.” Markey rubbed her temples where tension was beginning to build. “You really think he can help me?” Suspicion chewed away at her brain. An entire life of ridicule left her faith and trust in her fellow man shaken. Yet, a new chance and the possibility for a better life was being offered. If she turned her back on it she would always wonder “what if”. Could she live with that? What if he only wanted to exploit her? Could she live with that? So many questions rolled through her mind. No one had ever offered her help before. How many times had she lain in bed her body racked with pain and prayed for help? “It’s a possibility, what can it hurt? If he can’t you haven’t lost anything and if he can your whole life could change.” 41
Robin Leigh Miller
No more running, the chance to have friends again, a normal life. All these thoughts cluttered her head. Maybe Trip was right, what could it hurt? “Will he have time to see me?” Trip smiled. “I don’t think you’ll have to worry about that. Since you’re packed anyway, why don’t we head out tonight?” “Tonight?” Oh God this was all happening so fast. “Any reason why we can’t?” Markey searched her frazzled brain for a good reason but couldn’t come up with one. “I have to call my boss and tell him I’m quitting.” “Okay, you do that while I load those boxes in your car. Is that everything?” he asked looking over his shoulder. Markey followed his eyes. “That’s everything.” “It’ll be all right Markey.” Trip said as he walked toward the front door. “Just wait and see.” Markey dialed the phone as Trip carried the first box out to her car. She was relieved when her boss’s answering machine picked up. She left a brief apologetic message and hung up. Next she called the landlord and told him something had come up and she needed to move. Since she had already paid for the month they should be square. Now that the phone calls were made she had to make herself walk to the front door. This would be the last time she walked through the door. Thrusting her chin forward she picked up her makeup bag and stepped outside. Trip was leaning against the car waiting for her. With an unsteady hand she reached behind her and pulled the door closed to her haven of security for the last time.
42
Force of Nature
Chapter Five When they were both seated in the car Trip reached out and took her hand. “That was hard for you wasn’t it?” It was obvious she didn’t want to leave, it was written all over her face. “This was best place I ever had. It was small and comfortable, no nosy neighbors and I was about to get a full-time position at my job. Well, I guess I let myself get too attached. I should know better.” Trip squeezed her hand and then started the car. “Better days are coming,” he told her as he pulled out of the driveway. “I need to go back to the bank. You’ll have to follow me until we find a place to stay for the night.” She was confused for a moment then remembered he still had his car at the bank. “That’s fine. How long will it take to get to where your friend lives?” “About six hours. He’s expecting us at ten tomorrow morning.” Markey glanced at him. He was expecting them? “Is that why you went to town, to call him? You could have done that from my place.” Markey saw a funny look pass over Trip’s face then vanish. “It wasn’t the only reason I went to town. I had to take care of some other business as well.” She didn’t need to know that he paid a visit to the local news station and informed them that the footage they played on the five o’clock news was bogus. When he explained that he saw almost exactly the same thing when he was in college and that his roommate had concocted it for a class he was taking, well, their excitement fizzled. It was all a lie of course, but at least they would start focusing their attention on the man who shot the footage instead of wasting time tracking down Markey. That would give him enough time to get her out of town before they figured out he was the hoax. The rest of the twenty-five minute drive into town was quiet. Markey stared out the window at the colorful trees that whizzed by. Her cabin wasn’t the only thing she would miss. The landscape was breathtaking and acted as a kind of therapy for her. Soothing her nerves and emotions on days she felt like she wanted to fall apart. She somehow felt connected to the area. The bright sun of the day had faded into a crisp, cold fall evening. When they pulled onto the main street of town the street lights were the only thing shining. Trip parked the car on the street about a block from the bank and shut off the car. They both sat and looked at all the yellow tape strung from street light poles telling curious residents that they were to stay away. Trip opened the car door and slid from behind the wheel. Markey followed. They walked in silence toward the bank as if it were some kind of ominous creature that could come to life.
43
Robin Leigh Miller
Trip briefly paused in front of the building and gave it a cursory glance and then continued past it. Markey couldn’t keep moving. She looked blankly at the boarded-up front doors and began to replay the morning’s events in her head. “Markey.” Her name echoed down the streets until it reached her ears. She turned her head in the direction it came from and saw Trip motioning for her. Her legs carried her toward him as if on automatic pilot. “It won’t do any good to relive it. It’s done and over and all you can do is move on.” His hand rose to her face and cupped her cheek tenderly as he spoke. As before she leaned into it. “I know.” Markey felt her skin warm against his palm in the crisp night air and decided this wouldn’t do her any good either. She pulled her face away from his and looked up and down the street. “Where’s your car?” “Right here.” He pointed off to the side at a huge stretched-out motorcycle. The blue tank sparkled under the street lights and Markey knew she had seen it before. “You.” She snapped her head back to Trip and narrowed her eyes. “You almost ran me off the road this morning. That was you on that noisy beast.” “What are you talking about?” Trip couldn’t remember running anyone off the road. In fact he only passed one car until he reached the small town. Recognition slapped him right between the eyes. The car he passed was her. “Wait a minute, I didn’t run you off the road. I passed you in the other lane legally.” Markey opened her mouth to dispute his claim then snapped it shut. He was right. He was in the other lane. She had been the one daydreaming while she was driving and then got startled when the thunderous rumble came out of nowhere. If she had been paying attention she would have seen him coming up behind her. Trip watched her irritated face melt away. He could see her replaying it in her mind. It seemed she did that often he thought to himself. “You’re right, I’m sorry. I wasn’t paying attention and when you came by me on that thing,” she jerked her head to the side, “and it startled me.” “What, you don’t like motorcycles?” What kind of woman didn’t like motorcycles? The kind that never rode one he answered to himself. “Not particularly. They’re noisy and dangerous.” A smile tugged at his lips. “Never rode one did ya?” His smile was infectious, Markey tried not to smile back but wasn’t successful. “No, I’ve never ridden one. What’s so special about them anyway?’ Trip sauntered to the bike and slung his leg over it. When he was settled in the seat he looked up at her. “Well now, there’s feeling the wind in your face.” “And the bugs in your mouth and eyes,” she retorted. Trip grinned. “You feel closer to the road.”
44
Force of Nature
“Especially when you’re sliding across it on your face,” she shot back at him. “Then there’s how it feels between your legs. Kind of like having a woman beneath you.” Markey didn’t have a comeback for that one. All she could do was stare at him and blush. The devilish look in his eyes made her tingle all over. Maybe she wasn’t giving motorcycles a fair chance, she thought to herself. “What’s the matter sweetheart, don’t have a sassy little comment for that one?” He was teasing her. “No. But while I’m toasty warm in my car, you’ll be freezing those manly balls of yours off.” She turned and started back toward her car, giving him a brief glance over her shoulder. The devilish look had disappeared replaced by one of consideration. She smiled all the way back to the car, proud of herself for getting in the last word and a good one at that. By the time she was seated behind the wheel she heard the beast rumble to life. In seconds it was parked next to her. Markey looked out the window and saw Trip with what looked to her like a leather bandana around his face and a pair of goggles covering his eyes. She let her eyes drop to his legs and saw he had slid on a pair of leather chaps. Her heart fluttered in her chest. God he looked sinful. The kind of guy mothers would warn their daughters about and for good reason. What was it about men clad in leather that made women throw caution to the wind and surrender themselves? Was it the way the leather hugged his strong thighs? He even had on a pair of leather gloves and for some reason that made her hotter. A brief image of him touching her tender skin with those gloves slid through her mind and made her shiver. She wanted to reach out the window and run her hands all over his body, feeling the soft worn leather stretched over his body. Trip pulled on a helmet that looked like a pot and strapped it under his chin. When he was finished he lifted the bandana and tapped on the window. Markey rolled it down. “Follow me. If my balls start to get to cold I’ll look for a motel.” When Markey blushed at having her words thrown back at her Trip winked and dropped his bandana back in place. With a flick of his wrist he fed the beast more gas and took off down the street. Markey stared after him. “Oh girl, you are in trouble.” There was no doubt that if she had to spend much time alone with him she would become one of those girls that surrendered. When Trip’s brake light flashed in the distance Markey jumped. “Get it together, he’s waiting for you.” She put the car in gear and headed out after him.
45
Robin Leigh Miller
As Markey followed the single tail light of the bike down the dark road she let her mind wander. Would this friend of Trip’s really be able to help her? Was there any help for her? At thirty-three years old she would take the chance and hope. Once buried dreams began to resurface as the road stretched on endlessly. When she was younger she dreamed of finding a husband who treated her like a queen. She envisioned a pretty house with a big yard and a dog running after a ball. Quiet dinners with candlelight and wine. An intense session of love-making before falling asleep naked in the arms of the man she loved. As the years passed and she silently celebrated birthday after birthday alone, those dreams were squashed and shoved aside. Replaced by dreams of being able to live in one place for more than a few months at a time. Those dreams were more realistic. Then Trip stepped into her life. The only man to see what she was capable of and not run. Was it divine intervention that had him in the bank this morning? It must be. That episode was the worst yet, she was sure her body would have been torn to pieces from the inside out if he hadn’t stepped up and helped her. Then to top it all off he took her home and watched over her while she crashed. Markey’s heart began to feel light. What was the old saying, “There’s someone for everyone”? Maybe Trip was her someone, led to her aid by fate. She certainly was attracted to him. Of course she had only known him for a day, but how many times had she watched those afternoon talk shows and heard about couples who fell in love right away. Up ahead she saw Trip’s turn signal light flash as he turned off an exit. She was taking a big risk she thought to herself as she followed. For all she knew he could be leading her into the fires of hell. Yet, it didn’t feel like it. Trip veered off the two-lane road and into the parking lot of a small hotel. Markey glanced down at the clock on the dash. To her surprise they had been driving for about three hours. “He must be getting cold,” she muttered to herself. Markey pulled the car up alongside Trip and rolled down the window. “Should I call for an ambulance, see if we can rescue those boys of yours?” A giggle slid out before she could stop it. With a quick jerk Trip removed his helmet and bandana. “Don’t you worry about my boys. They’ll be just fine after a beer or two.” “I hope so.” Markey didn’t mean her comment to sound suggestive but the look on Trip’s face told her that he took it in a very good way. She rolled the window back up and slid from the car. “I thought we could both use some hot food. I know you must be getting exhausted,” he said packing his chaps and bandana in a leather saddle bag. “Actually I feel pretty good.” The cool night air made her shiver. “Yeah?” Trip wrapped his arm around her shoulder trying to ward off the cold.
46
Force of Nature
“Yeah,” Markey lowered her head and said softly, “it must have been the company this afternoon. Usually it takes me a couple of days to recover.” She felt Trip’s body stiffen against hers and then relax. He gave her a quick squeeze and then walked her toward the office of the hotel. When they walked through the door warm air washed over them. A young girl with an earring pierced through her eyebrow smiled at them. “Hi.” Her chubby cheeks seemed pale against the coal black hair that hung around her face. “Boy are you two lucky, I only have one room left.” Markey stilled then groaned internally. She was looking forward to that hot meal and a hot shower. “We’ll take it.” She looked over at Trip. Was he out of his mind? She couldn’t share a room with him, much less a bed. “Great. Let me get your information,” the young girl said. Trip handed her his driver’s license. Her fingers flew across the keys as she typed in all his personal information into the computer. “Oh, darn. It looks like the printer is out of paper. Give me just a sec.” The girl disappeared into a back room, Markey took her chance and pulled on Trip’s arm. “Are you crazy, we can’t share a room.” “Why not?” He actually had the nerve to look perplexed. “Because,” she huffed out. Trip’s eyes bunched up. “Still not getting it.” “Oh for God’s sake. I’m a woman, you’re a man.” “Nothing gets past you does it?” He knew exactly what she was saying. He just wanted to hear her say it. “Oooh, you’re funny.” She slapped at his leather jacket. “I wanted to take a hot shower, put on something comfortable.” “And you can’t do that now? I’ll show you how if you’d like.” That was the problem, she screamed in her head. She was afraid she would like. The perky little girl came back and gave them a huge smile. Trip smiled back at her like nothing was wrong. “Is there somewhere we can get some good food around here?” he asked when she handed him the key. “Sure is. We have a nice cozy diner.” Her plump hand pointed out the front door. “Just walk out the door and make a right, you can’t miss it.” “Thanks.” Trip gave the girl a wink and then grabbed Markey’s hand. “Come on sweetheart.”
47
Robin Leigh Miller
Chapter Six Markey gave a low growl as she was tugged along behind him. He was having fun with her discomfort in the whole situation. It would serve him right if she paraded around in something sexy and teased the hell out of him. “You want to see the room first or get something to eat?” “Eat,” she said between her teeth then snatched her hand from his. When they entered the restaurant she let out a sigh. It was warm, dim and very, very cozy. A huge fireplace stood in the middle of the room with a stone chimney that went up through the roof. A fire crackled and sparked giving the room a warm glow. The tables were heavy oak and positioned around the open area in such a way that couples could dine without worrying about others hearing their conversation. Waitresses hustled around in short black skirts, black stockings and crisp white blouses. Not a one of them could older than twenty-five Markey thought. Off in the corner of the dining room was a long oak bar. A mirror stretched the length of the bar behind it. Liquor bottles were lined up according to brand making a nice arrangement. Heavy chandeliers shaped like wagon wheels hung from the ceiling, their soft light adding to the atmosphere. “I’ve never been in a diner like this,” Markey commented as she looked around the room. This would be a five-star restaurant where I come from.” Trip had been in better but chose not to say so. He liked this place. It was simple and made you feel welcome. “I hope the food is as good.” The hostess approached with a smile and a pound of makeup on her face. To make up for her short stature she wore two-inch heels. Her skirt was shorter than the waitresses’. If she bent over everyone would be able to see she wasn’t wearing any panties under the skintight skirt. Topping it off was her white blouse, which looked to be buttoned only halfway with the fringes of her push-up bra peeking from the edges. “Good evening. Two for dinner?” she asked in a sultry voice. Markey watched Trip’s expression as he answered, “Yes.” To her amazement he didn’t seem to notice or care that she was flaunting what she didn’t really have. “This way please.” Not once did the woman acknowledge Markey, keeping her eyes firmly on Trip. Jealousy jabbed at Markey like a hot poker. Couldn’t she see he was with someone? After the woman seated them and took their drink orders she sashayed off making sure her little behind swayed from side to side. She was doing it intentionally. No woman walked like that.
48
Force of Nature
“Did you enjoy the show?” Markey tried to keep the sarcasm out of her voice but failed miserably. “What? Oh you mean her. I don’t go for the made-up type, I prefer the more natural beauty in a woman.” He looked her right in the eye when he said it so there would be no mistake of his meaning. Markey felt intense warmth spread through her cheeks. Her heart fluttered in a maddening rhythm. “I suppose some men like it and the extra attention, but really it’s just a way to get better tips. If you saw her outside this place you wouldn’t recognize her I’m sure.” “I guess I never thought of it that way.” She tried to sound nonchalant but her voice sounded seductive with its breathy undertone. She saw Trip glance at her with humor in his eye. “Good evening.” Another twenty-something waitress walked to the side of the table with two menus tucked in her arm. “My name is Tracy. I’ll be your server this evening.” Trip gave her a polite smile. Markey gave her quick scan up and down. This young woman didn’t look like anything like the hostess. Her white blouse was buttoned to hide her bosom and her black skirt came to just above her knees. Instead of heels she wore black loafers that served her better for dashing back and forth between tables and the kitchen. Most importantly she wasn’t blatantly flirting with Trip. “I’ll be back in a few moments with your drinks,” she said as she laid the menus in front of both of them. “Thank you Tracy.” Trip continued to smile at her, but it wasn’t a flirtatious smile, just a friendly one. “How do you know so much about waitresses?” Trip opened his menu and scanned it over. “When you travel as much as I do you learn things about people.” “Oh. I travel a lot as well, but I try to stay clear of people. I guess I miss quite a bit.” Markey’s eyes focused on the menu and missed the look Trip shot her over the top of his. “The world isn’t that bad a place Markey. You should take some time and observe it.” “That’s funny coming from a man who told me he’s seen the worst humanity has to offer.” Markey saw her favorite food listed on the menu, steak. Her mouth watered as she read how it was prepared over an open flame. The waitress returned with a glass of red wine and a tall frosty glass of beer. “Are you ready to order?” Tracy asked politely as she sat the drinks in front of them. “I am, how about you Markey?”
49
Robin Leigh Miller
“Yes I am. I’d like the steak, medium well with a baked potato and garden salad please. Just give me your house dressing.” Trip grinned across the table at her. “I’ll have the same.” When the waitress scurried off to the kitchen Markey looked at Trip. “What’s so funny?” “The more I get to know you the more I find we have in common.” Markey gave an unattractive snort. “Like what?” What they possibly have in common? “We’re both loners, we travel a great deal, we’re both suspicious of our fellow man.” He folded his hands on the table in front of him and leaned forward. “And we both like the same food.” Wow, she thought, he was right. “Besides all that?” She didn’t want to think they had things in common. It would only add to her attraction for him. Trip chuckled and picked up his beer. Markey watched his throat work as he drank from the frosted glass. Her tongue slipped between her lips and licked away the dryness that came from nowhere as she watched him. Such a strong neck, she thought. What would it be like to nip at his tender skin there with her teeth? Whoa, where did that come from? Nipping at his neck, was she out of her mind? When he sat the glass down she averted her eyes to the table. “So, you think we have a lot in common. Is that a good thing?” she asked. Trip ran his fingers up and down the glass, gently caressing away the frost. Her eyes slid from the table to his hand motion. I bet he has a gentle touch when it comes to the flesh. Would he graze his fingers over her sensitive places in the same way? she wondered. Markey groaned to herself. God, what was she becoming? She never thought of such things before she met him. Still, she pictured herself wriggling under his hands, begging for more. “If these were different circumstances I’d say yes.” Trip was watching her closely. She seemed to be fascinated with his hand moving up and down the cold glass. Those words were like throwing cold water on a fire. Markey glanced up into his face and saw honesty in his eyes. Different circumstances? Did he mean because she was so different from other people? Of course he did. “I see.” She whispered as she picked up her wineglass and sipped. The combination of sweet and tangy exploded in her mouth. This had to be the best wine she ever tasted. “Don’t be like that Markey. You have no idea what I mean I’m sure.” “No, you’re right of course.” She took another sip from her glass. “You were passing through and got caught up in a bizarre situation. Out of the kindness of your heart you decided to delay your plans and help the freak out.” She sipped again. “Now you need to continue on your way.” “Markey it isn’t…”
50
Force of Nature
“Of course it is,” she said cutting him off. “I completely understand. What would a man of the world want with such a strange woman anyway?” Markey tipped her glass back and drained it. How could she have been so foolish thinking he would desire her? “That’s not what I mean.” Markey startled at his tone of voice. He was angry. She could see it in his eyes. “You have things that need to be worked out, the last thing you need is me distracting you.” Trip leaned back in his chair. “Don’t put words in my mouth Markey,” he said with a softer voice. “Excuse me ma’am. Would you like another glass of wine?” Markey jumped. When had the waitress walked up? “Yes, please.” When she had taken the empty glass and left, Markey looked at Trip. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to make you angry. I guess you could call it a self-defense mechanism.” “You don’t give yourself enough credit. You’re beautiful, intelligent and funny. Any man would be fortunate to have you.” Any man but you, she thought. The words almost slipped out of her mouth, but she caught them just in time. Markey sighed. “I don’t know Trip. I’m thirty-three years old and never been kissed. I think your opinion of me is slightly off.” She saw the surprised look on his face and had to chuckle. “That honestly surprises you doesn’t it?” The waitress returned with another glass of wine and placed it in front of Markey. “Your dinners will be out in a few moments. Is there anything else I can get you?” “No thank you.” Trip answered for them both. When the waitress left Trip looked at Markey. “Yes, it does surprise me.” Markey sipped her fresh glass of wine. “Why?” “Like I said, you’re beautiful.” “And very different. It’s okay Trip, I’m at peace with it. How about we change the subject? I was hoping for a friendly dinner, not a hostile one.” “Okay, what do you want to talk about?” “I don’t know. Tell me about your work. What kind of job lets you travel all over the country?” The second glass of wine had her feeling much more relaxed and a bit dizzy. She really should wait until the food arrived to have more, but what the hell. Her knight in shinning armor would see to it she made it back to the hotel room. She didn’t even have to worry about him seducing her in her tipsy state. “I told you. I just travel around and pick up work where I can. Nothing special.” If Markey hadn’t been so relaxed from the wine she would have noticed his eyes slide away from her and the way his ears turned red. “A drifter,” she said between sips of wine. “I guess you could call it that. I’ve been offered full-time positions with big companies, but I choose to keep moving.” Trip drank from his beer glass again hoping the tart liquid would wash away the dryness in his throat.
51
Robin Leigh Miller
Luckily the waitress arrived at the table with their food before the conversation could progress any further. The plates were settled in front of them along with their salads. “I’m starving,” Markey commented before she cut into her thick steak. They were halfway through their diner before Markey broke the silence. “I know I’ve said it all ready, but I just want you to know I appreciate everything you’ve done for me. Thank you.” “Please stop thanking me.” There was an edge to his voice that Markey did pick up on, but decided to brush it aside. When the last bit of food was finished Trip leaned back in his chair. He looked at Markey’s plate and chuckled. “I guess you were starving.” Markey blushed. “I don’t get to eat this well very often.” The waitress seemed to appear out of nowhere. “Would you like some desert?” “That depends on what you have.” Markey said with hope. “Tell me you have something sinfully chocolate.” She heard Trip chuckle and ignored it. “As a matter of fact we do,” she replied with an understanding smile. “Don’t tell me what it is, just bring it.” Markey replied. “What about you sir? Would you like anything?” “Just another beer please and another glass of wine for the lady.” He was still smiling, humored by the fact that no matter where he went, women were all the same when it came to their love of chocolate. “Now what’s so funny?” Markey asked when the waitress left. “Tell me, what is it about chocolate and women? This has to be greatest mystery of life.” Markey pondered the question and couldn’t come up with good answer. “I don’t know. Maybe when we were created from Adam’s rib a bit of the cocoa plant was thrown in for good measure. Hence our desire to devour all that we can.” It sounded good to her. Trip tipped his head back and laughed with gusto. “Your wit is irresistible.” Great, she thought, but not the rest of her. The waitress quickly returned with a plate that held a slice of chocolate cheesecake drizzled with chocolate syrup. Markey rolled her eyes and groaned aloud with delight. The sexy little sound didn’t go unnoticed by Trip. “Can you tell me what kind of wine this is?” Markey asked the waitress when she put the full glass in front of her. “It comes from a local winery. We serve all of their wines.” “Well, it’s the best I’ve ever tasted,” Markey said putting the glass to her lips. “Enjoy.” The waitress dropped a slip of paper on the table and walked away.
52
Force of Nature
Markey took a small bite of the cheesecake and let a low throaty groan roll from her chocolate-filled mouth. She physically shivered as her mouth worked the rich chocolate slowly. She washed it down with her wine and smiled. When she looked up at Trip he had a dark, dangerous look in his eye. “Want some?” “No thank you. I’m enjoying watching you.” His voice had changed. It was subtle but noticeable. There was heat in his words. Even his facial expression had changed into something that fringed on lustful. “I have a whole new respect for chocolate.” Markey tingled all over when he spoke. Butterflies raced around inside her stomach and a small yearning fire sparked to life between her legs. He was making her feel so sexy. “I’ll try not to enjoy it so much but I can’t promise anything. It’s probably the closest thing to an orgasm I’ll ever have.” She looked away from his intense gaze and took another bite. Suppressing her enjoyment was harder than she thought. When she glanced up at Trip he was still watching her with eyes that promised something better. Since he’d made it clear there wasn’t to be anything between them, she figured the wine was making her see things that weren’t there. Deciding it was time to end her personal pleasure, she dug into the cheesecake and finished it off in record time. “Okay, I’m finished. We can leave now.” Markey slid from her chair and waited for Trip to follow. He just sat and looked at her with a touch of humor in his eyes. He knew she was getting turned on by his stare and he found it funny she thought to herself. “Well, are you coming?” Trip picked up the check. “Just about did,” he muttered to himself as he followed her to the front of the restaurant. Markey stepped outside while Trip paid the bill. The cold night air helped tamper the fire that had been slowly building inside her. She was either too inexperienced or just too horny to deal with his come-hither looks followed by his can’t-happen attitude. And the worst was yet to come. Now she had to share a room with him. She took in a deep breath letting the icy air fill her lungs. Maybe this was all a mistake? She should have just let him go on about his business and contact this guy that might be able to help her herself. “Ready to go check out our room?” His voice still held a trace of lust as he spoke into her ear from behind her. Time to act like a big girl, she thought. “Sure.” They walked in silence toward the room that would be sharing until morning. When Trip unlocked the door and stepped aside to let her enter first, she took another deep breath. Her legs carried her inside without her permission, as if they knew what lay ahead. She stood in the middle of the room and stared at the one lone bed. Now what? At least if there were two she’d feel a little bit better. The door shut behind her.
53
Robin Leigh Miller
“Oops. Looks like we have to share a bed too.” All she could think of to say was, “I’m sorry.” She wasn’t sure if she was apologizing for the inconvenience to him for having to sleep next to a woman he didn’t want, or for the possibility of her not being able to control her desire for him. “Why would you be sorry?” Trip placed his hand on her shoulder and turned her toward him. “What is that supposed to mean?” “Nothing.” She couldn’t explain it to herself, how was she going to explain it to him? Trip scrutinized her face with a furrowed brow. No doubt trying to read what she was feeling, she thought. “I think I’ll grab a shower.” Markey backed away from his close proximity. “I need to grab some clothes from the car first.” When she began to sidestep him he moved to block her. “I’ll get them. What do you want, a T-shirt?” “That’ll be fine, thank you.” Trip turned and left her alone in the room. Was he afraid she’d run off, is that why he wanted to get her clothes for her? Why not, the thought crossed her mind. “Oh Markey, you are in so much trouble,” she whined to herself. When she was near him she felt like a time bomb waiting to go off. Every nerve ending, every pore on her body seethed with desire for this man. God she felt like a horny teenage boy. Thank God he’d made it clear where they stood or she would be tearing his clothes off. Dear heaven she’d throw herself at him like a shameless hussy. Markey flopped down on the bed and held her face in her hands. All she had to do was get through this night and she’d be in the clear. Tomorrow they’d drive separately until they reached his friend’s house. He would introduce them and be on his way. She probably would never see him again and her hormones would return to normal. The door opened letting in a rush of cold air and then slammed shut. She looked up at Trip holding a T-shirt in one hand and something else bunched in the other. “I thought you might want a fresh change of underwear too.” His hand unclenched revealing a pair of peach bikini panties. Markey mentally held on to the edge of sanity while her body unraveled within. He just had to handle her panties with those big thick hands she was fantasizing about earlier in the evening. At least he wasn’t wearing his leather gloves, which would have crumbled her resistance. She jumped from the bed, snatched the panties and T-shirt from his hands and headed for the bathroom. “Thanks,” she said as she slipped through the door. Trip stood there with his hands held in the same position watching her make her escape. She was a bundle of nerves. He finally moved his hands and scrubbed his face with them. When he heard the water turn on in the bathroom he clenched his hands and left the warmth of the room for the cold night.
54
Force of Nature
Outside he leaned against the door and let the air chill his skin. He reached inside his leather coat and pulled out a cigar. They were small luxuries he usually saved for special occasions. But after watching her in the throes of sexual bliss eating that damn chocolate he really needed it. Hell, he almost lost it right there in the restaurant. Now that was something. He held his lighter to the end of the cigar and puffed. When it was finally lit, he rested against the door and let the smoke swirl around his head. He could still hear those sexy little sounds she made while she ate. Jesus, even her face was flush with ecstasy. All he could do was sit there and imagine her underneath him making those same sounds as he pressed himself deep inside her. This was not good. Not good at all. He had it bad for this woman. He wasn’t lying when he told her they had a lot in common. In all his travels and all the women he indulged himself with, never, not once did he come across a woman that touched off such a fierce fire inside him. Trip puffed again on his cigar and looked around the empty parking lot. He should just jump on his bike and leave. Once he was gone he was sure this desire for her would fade. He puffed again and then broke off the end of the cigar letting the hot ash fall to the ground. He looked around the parking lot once more then turned and went back inside the room. To his surprise Markey was finished with her shower and standing in front of the big mirror brushing out her long wavy hair. The T-shirt he got for her came down just below her butt cheeks. Every time she lifted her arm there was the promise of soft flesh. Markey felt his eyes on her, but she continued to brush her hair and ignore him. The hot shower did nothing to curb her desire so she decided it was time to make him want her as much as she wanted him. How, she had no idea. Finished with her hair she turned toward him and smiled. “The shower’s all yours if you want it.” Her shirt pulled tight across her breasts leaving nothing to the imagination. With the cold air drifting around the room her nipples hardened, peaking through the thin material. It took every ounce of courage she had not to cross her arms over her full breast. She moved toward the bed and bent over slightly to remove her coat. The T-shirt pulled up exposing her peach panties that rode high on her cheeks. She turned toward him again and nearly gasped aloud. The look on his face was the same look she saw in the restaurant. “I’m gonna turn on the television, if that’s all right?” It was the only thing she could think of to say. Trip never moved. He just stared. Markey gave a mental shrug and moved toward the television. When she bent over to turn it on Trip lost control. He moved behind her and grabbed her by the waist, pressing his ever growing erection against her ass. There was no confusion in how she made him feel.
55
Robin Leigh Miller
Markey squealed and jumped, straightening. Trip jerked her around to face him and crushed his lips against hers. She didn’t know how to respond, it was happening too fast. But when he prodded her mouth open with his tongue she relaxed and let him enter. The fierceness of the kiss surprised and thrilled her at the same time. As he explored her mouth with his tongue he moved his hands to her hair and tangled them in its thickness. Markey began to meet his eagerness with her own, sliding her tongue against his, tasting the beer he had with dinner along with the hint of cherry tobacco. Suddenly Trip pulled away and stared down into her face. “You’re playing with fire sweetheart.” To her surprise she answered with confidence. “I don’t know what you mean.” Trip pressed himself against her, pushing his agonizing erection against her hot throbbing core. “Understand?” “No, you said if there were different circumstances…” Trip cut off her words with another scorching kiss. His hands left her hair and slid down her back, feeling every curve as they traveled. When they reached the soft fleshy curve of her ass he grabbed a handful and squeezed. Markey groaned into his mouth. Yes she thought, his hands are wonderful. Again he pulled away and looked into her face. Her lips were red and swollen, her skin was flushed and her beautiful cat-like brown eyes shimmered in the light of the room. “Let me make one thing clear. I never said I wouldn’t take you.” His mouth crushed hers again. He moved her toward the door of the room and pushed her back against it. Markey gasped into his mouth. His hands grasped the bottom of her shirt and pulled up. Trip stopped the kiss long enough to yank the shirt over her head. He intended to devour her luscious mouth again, but was stunned by the beauty of her body. His eyes roamed down her long neck and over the gentle top curve of her breast. His hand reached out and cupped her. A tiny noise broke free from Markey as his thumb brushed over her erect nipple. When she didn’t make a move to stop him he cupped her other breast and teased it the same way. Fire raced through her body, licking at her skin, screaming to be fed. She wanted him like she never wanted before in her life. When his hands left her breasts she moaned in protest, afraid he had changed his mind. Instead he dropped to his knees and slid his fingers into the top of her panties and tugged them down. She heard his sharp intake of breath, felt him release a rush of hot air over her burning, sensitive mound. “My God you’re perfect.” She would never know how much it pleased him to find her silky skin bare. He removed her panties over her feet and then stood, drinking in her naked beauty. She looked so vulnerable pressed against the white door. “I’ve never seen anyone as magnificent as you.”
56
Force of Nature
His words brushed away any insecurity that was left inside her. She reached out and pulled him toward her. “I’m yours, if you want me.” “If I want you?” He took her hand and pressed her palm against the bulge in his jeans. “This doesn’t happen to a man unless he wants a woman.” Markey felt her breath catch in her lungs. He was so big and thick. Trip saw the fear slide through her eyes. He moved closer to her and kissed her, gently this time. She met his need with her own, tugging at his lips with her teeth. His mouth traveled down her neck, nipping and then soothing with his tongue. He kissed her shoulder then traveled down to the top of her breast. Her skin quivered with pleasure under his lips. When he took her nipple between his teeth and gave a little pressure, she moaned as her knees buckled. He rolled the tight little ball between his tongue and the roof of his mouth then began to suckle. Markey put both of her hands on his head and pressed her breast closer to his mouth. White hot lightning traveled from her toes to her head. Liquid pooled between her legs and she panted his name. He pulled away and sunk his face in the valley between her breasts, breathing in her erotic scent. He moved on to her other breast and began lavishing attention on this one as well. Markey thought she would die with pleasure. Her body seemed to be floating in the air, yet grounded at the same time. The world around her disappeared, there was nothing but her and Trip and the magic they would make. She shivered when his mouth traveled down her tummy and his tongue dipped inside her belly button, giving her just a taste of what was to come. He kissed his way down to her mound, around it, down the inside of her thighs. Her legs shook with anticipation. “Trip please.” She panted. He was going to kill her if he didn’t stop teasing. Markey’s brain almost exploded when he touched his lips to her. He blew warm breath in the most sensitive area on her body. But when he touched his tongue to the small bundle of nerves nestled between her folds she bucked and cried out. Trip reached up behind her and placed the palms of his hands on her ass, supporting her. His own furious desire was begging him to press his cock where his tongue was playing. He focused on Markey, demanding his body to restrain itself. His tongue dipped inside her and lapped at her juices. He could feel her muscles tightening around him, it wouldn’t take her long and he was glad for it. Much longer and he would push aside reason and bury himself to the hilt inside her silky cavern. Her cries filled the room as he slid his tongue in and out of her, building and building the anticipation. Finally he moved his mouth back to her nub and sucked. Markey stiffened and bucked against him. White light burst in her eyes, her brain fizzled like a light bulb giving its last bit of light. Her body shattered and drifted around the room like confetti as each wave of pleasure rocked her.
57
Robin Leigh Miller
Trip kept suckling, sending more intense pleasure coursing through her body. She screamed out his name when the last soul-ripping wave pulsed then died. She felt his hands slide from her bottom and his body lean away from her. No longer able to hold herself up she slid down the door and rested on the floor.
58
Force of Nature
Chapter Seven When her body finally pieced back together and her brain reconnected with the rest of her body, she looked for Trip. If he could do that with his mouth, she wasn’t sure she would survive having him inside her. Her eyes finally focused on Trip. He was pulling himself up from the floor. “Where are you going?” Her head wasn’t as clear as it could be, but it looked like he was walking away from her. “Cold shower,” he grumbled. “What, why?” When he didn’t answer she pulled herself from the floor and headed toward him. She reached out and turned him toward her. His eyes were dangerous with lust, his face hard with frustration. “Aren’t you going to…?” Trip shook off her hand. “Don’t,” he growled. Markey jumped with surprise. My God she thought to herself, he looks like a wild animal defending his kill. “What did I do wrong?” Trip froze in place. He took several steadying breaths before he spoke. “You didn’t do anything wrong.” “Then why?” He was at the edge of losing it, tossing her on the bed and driving himself inside her until he was empty and exhausted. His body screamed for it, his cock ached for it. He dealt with it the only way he knew how. He turned on her. “You didn’t do anything wrong okay. You’re the best pussy I ever tasted. Is that what you want to hear? Yes, you have a hot little body, but I’ve had hot little bodies before. You said yourself you’ve never been kissed, well now you have and little bit more. Be happy for that.” This wasn’t right, she thought. How could he go from hot to cold so fast? He wanted her, she knew he did. Still, her heart started sinking inside her chest. His words hurt, but they didn’t match the way he still looked at her. “I may be inexperienced Trip, but I’m not naïve.” She held herself tall and secure, her jaw jutted out. She kept her voice low and steady. Even though she was standing in front of him with her body naked, he didn’t need to see her naked feelings. “I never asked you for a lifetime commitment. I’m not stupid enough to think you’d offer one. Unfortunately I saw nothing wrong with sharing our bodies even for one night. I am sorry it ended this way.” Trip was surprised by her calm demeanor. He had expected her to cry hysterically, or worse, try to seduce him. He feared that the most because there was no way in hell 59
Robin Leigh Miller
he would be able to turn her down. Instead she stood before him without a stitch of clothing on and was more composed than he was. “Markey…” “No. Don’t say anything, please.” If he didn’t walk away from her soon she was going to lose her composure and fall apart. “Go get your cold shower. That must be painful.” She pointed to his erection bulged in his jeans. He looked like he wanted to reach out for her so she took a step back. He read the move properly and hung his head. “I’m sorry sweetheart.” “So am I.” She turned her back to him and began retrieving her shirt and panties. When she heard the bathroom door close she leaned her head against the door and fought the tears. No, she wouldn’t cry. Crying would do no good, only tire her out. She slipped the shirt over her head and stepped into her panties. She could leave. Walk out the door, get in her car and drive away to anywhere she wanted. But she wanted the chance to see if this friend of Trip’s could help her. Since this may be her only chance of help, biting the bullet so to speak was the only way to handle it. When he came out of the bathroom she would be civil. She could ask for the directions and if he wouldn’t give them to her, then she’d wait ‘til morning. They weren’t riding together anyway. Markey pulled the bedspread off the bed and grabbed a pillow. She tossed them both on the floor and settled down. She wasn’t sorry she did what she did with him, in some ways it was liberating. The fact that he acted like a total jackass was another story. “Your loss Trip.” She covered herself with the stiff bedspread and nestled her head into the pillow. It would all be over soon she thought and closed her eyes. In minutes she drifted off into a peaceful sleep. That’s where Trip found her when he came out of the bathroom. His hair was dripping wet, but his body was once again under his control. He felt like a complete asshole and panicked when he didn’t see her in the room. He was on his way to the door when he glanced over and saw her on the floor on the opposite side of the bed. It shouldn’t surprise him, her sleeping on the floor. After what he said to her he was sure she would run. He walked over and knelt down beside her. Her hair covered part of her face so he gently pushed it back. “If you only knew the truth,” he whispered and lifted her in his arms. Once he had her on the bed, he pulled the covers over her and took the spot on the floor. He only hoped he could sleep as peacefully as she was.
***** Cold air flooding the floor jerked Trip out of a sound sleep. He pulled the meager bead spread over up over his head and tried to ignore the goose bumps springing up on his body. When the door slammed shut he realized he was alone in the room.
60
Force of Nature
“Markey?” When she didn’t respond he threw back the blanket and crawled from the floor. Was she leaving without him? He walked to the window and pulled back the curtain. Her car was still in the lot, but she was nowhere to be found. Well, if the car was still there that was a good sign. He pulled on his jeans and shirt and went into the bathroom. The first thing he noticed was it smelled like her. A hint of some kind of exotic flower. It was scent he’d carry with him the rest of his life. Then he noticed it on his shirt. He didn’t bring her suitcase in last night and the clothes she wore yesterday were still on the bed. She must have worn his clothes out to the car to retrieve something to wear. Markey stepped into the hotel office and smiled at the same girl that was tending the desk last night. She looked remarkably fresh for working all night. “Good morning.” Markey said cheerfully. “Good morning. You’re up early. How was your dinner last night?” the girl asked. “It was great. I was wondering if you could tell me where the winery is located. You know the one the restaurant buys the wine from.” “Oh sure. Nice little place.” The girl pulled a piece of paper from under the counter and drew Markey a map. When she was finished she handed it to her and said, “You can’t miss it. They give tours and free wine tasting.” “I don’t think I’ll be able to visit this time, but I am counting on coming back through soon. Oh yeah, I wanted to take care of the bill while I’m here. Is it okay if we drop the key off on our way out?” “That would be fine.” The girl printed out the bill and Markey handed her cash for it. “I hope you enjoyed your stay,” she said and gave Markey a friendly wave as she walked through the door. Markey strolled down toward the room. She woke this morning feeling light and refreshed. The first time in a long time she woke in a cheery mood. It didn’t matter what Trip said to her last night, what he’d given her was enough. When she entered the room Trip rushed out of the bathroom and came to a fast halt. She felt his eyes move up and down her body. “Good morning.” He gave her a suspicious look before replying. “Morning.” “You didn’t have to move me to the bed last night Trip. I was comfortable where I was. It beats sleeping in a car.” She could tell he was confused by her flippant attitude. Good she thought, two can play that game. “If you’re about ready, I’m eager to go.” “We should grab some breakfast before we leave,” he said. His eyes were still roaming up and down her body. She was wearing a pair of tight bootleg jeans with black boots. Her sweater was a navy blue midriff that showed her belly button if she moved just right.
61
Robin Leigh Miller
“Okay. That sounds good. I’ll tell you what I’ll meet you down at the restaurant, that way you have the room to yourself.” She turned and strolled back out leaving him thoroughly confused. By the time he walked inside the restaurant Markey was on her second cup of coffee. She waved him over to the same table they had shared the night before. “Guess what, we have the same waitress we did last night. Poor girl is trying to build her bank account for college.” “Is that so?” “Yep. I’ve already ordered. She’ll be back for your order.” “Markey, are you all right?” He tried to reach out and take her hand but she pulled it away before he could make contact. “I’m fine. I can’t wait to meet your friend.” “He’s not really my friend, just someone I know.” “Oh, well I guess it doesn’t matter, as long as he can help me.” The waitress arrived with a plate of eggs and toast. “Good morning sir. What can I get you this morning?” Trip noted she was dressed in more casual clothes for the breakfast crowd and she looked very tired. “Two eggs and a side of sausage, oh, coffee too.” “It should only be a minute. Is there anything else I can get you Markey?” “No thanks Tracy, I’m great.” When the girl was out of sight Trip scowled at Markey. “First-name basis? When did that happen?” “I decided you were right. Instead of hiding from the world, I’m going to observe it. She’s a lovely girl don’t you think?” Markey began eating her breakfast, ignoring the looks he was giving her. “Lovely,” he muttered. “Markey about last night…” “How long do you think it will take to get to this guy’s place? You could just give me the directions and I could go on my own. There really isn’t any need for you to take me.” “Yes there is.” His irritation with her was growing by the second. “Why? He knows I’m coming doesn’t he?” “Yes he knows you’re coming, but he’s expecting me too.” She watched Trip place his palms over his face and huff into his hands. She tried to suppress the grin, but it slipped out anyway. The waitress arrived at the table with Trip’s breakfast and coffee. She laid the bill on the table and hurried off to wait on two more customers who had entered. Trip dug into his breakfast. Last night’s emotional turmoil left him empty in more ways than one. When Markey finished her food, she reached down and pulled her wallet out of her purse and laid a five dollar bill on the table. 62
Force of Nature
“What’s that for?” Trip asked. “I want to make sure she gets a good tip. Good service deserves a good tip. Oh, by the way, I’ve already taken care of the hotel bill. Just turn in the key when you’re ready.” She began to get up from the table when Trip slammed his fist on the table. “Sit down,” he growled at her. “I beg your pardon?” “Don’t play games with me Markey, sit down.” Markey returned to her chair and gave him a look of irritation. “Well?” “Why did you pay the hotel bill?” She could tell he was trying hard not to make a scene and decided to see how far she could push him. The self-centered prick deserved it. “Like I said, good service deserves a good tip. I paid for your service.” His eyes flared wildly at her. “You aren’t the only one that gets angry Markey. I may not be able to control the air, but I can work up a good mad that will leave you feeling like you just went through a hurricane.” Markey turned her head off to the side. “And your point is?” “My point is sweetheart,” he said between his teeth. “Last night was a huge misunderstanding. Notice I didn’t say mistake, but misunderstanding.” She turned her eyes on him then. He could see that odd little color begin to form in her iris. “So what you’re saying is I completely misunderstood that iron hard-on you had last night.” “No, I mean yes, oh hell.” Trip flopped two bills on the table and then wrapped his hand around Markey’s arm and led her from the restaurant. He dragged her toward her car and pressed her against the driver door with his body. Markey could feel him hardening again. “Really Trip. I’m beginning to think you walk around like that all the time. I guess I was foolish to think it was me.” “Your sass is going to get you into some real trouble sweetheart.” Markey laughed in his face. “Look Trip, I understand. You felt sorry for the poor thirty-three-year-old virgin and decided to give her a little pleasure without having to deal with her inexperience. I get it, it’s over, move on.” Trip groaned out of frustration and then kissed her hard like he did last night. Only this time she didn’t respond. When he tried to pry her mouth open with his tongue she clamped her mouth shut tighter. Finally he gave up and pulled away. Markey looked at him with disgust. “Finished? It won’t work a second time. You played me for a fool one too many times.” The wind whipped up around them as she spoke. “Trust me I won’t fall for it from you or any other man ever again. When I do take a man it will be on my terms, not his.”
63
Robin Leigh Miller
Something hard crashed into the back of Trip’s leg. He turned to see the lid of a trash can rolling around behind him. That’s when he noticed the wind picking up force. “Markey settle down. We have a long ride ahead of us. You don’t have time to crash.” “Don’t tell me what to do,” she snapped. “No one ever tells me what to do.” She pushed at his chest moving him away from her. “If you would just give me the directions we could end this now.” Trip’s ponytail lifted off his back and flapped in the wind. He could see her trying desperately to keep her anger under control but from the strength of the wind blowing around them she was losing the battle. “I can’t do that Markey.” He cupped her cheek in his hand. People came out of the restaurant to see what was happening. Trip could see them as they struggled to stand upright while the wind pummeled their bodies. “You need to stop this Markey. You’re going to hurt someone. I know you don’t want to do that.” No, she didn’t want anyone hurt because she had been stupid enough to fall for a sexy uncaring man. Markey closed her eyes and repeated over and over to herself that it didn’t matter. He didn’t matter. Once she got her life under control she would find a man who truly wanted her, not one who felt pity for her. Just as fast as it had all started, the wind subsided until there was nothing more than the gentle fall breeze that belonged in the atmosphere. Markey could hear the people in front of the restaurant as they analyzed the freakish event. She cursed herself for letting her personal emotions put others in danger. The sooner she got to this guy Trip felt could help her, the better. Markey jerked her face away from Trip’s hand. “Let’s get out of here.” Trip nodded. He turned to walk to his bike then stopped. “You’re vindictive aren’t you?” he asked then turned to face her again. The look on his face wasn’t accusing or condemning, simply curious. “I suppose I am,” she answered faintly. When he gave her his warm, dimpled smile she turned away and crawled into her car. She wouldn’t fall for that smile again, she promised herself. Markey waited for Trip to don his leather chaps and bandana. When he kick started his two-wheeled beast to life she started the car and followed him from the parking lot. Before long they were back on the interstate. Markey busied her mind with thoughts of how beautiful the trees looked in the morning sun. Frost had kissed the grass along the road overnight, giving it sparkle in the sun. Before long the warm rays would melt nature’s glitter returning its rich green. She thought of how cold it got last night and how warm the sun was already this morning. Nature was a curious thing, adapting quickly to its ever-changing surroundings. The trees could seemingly change color overnight, decorating the Earth with vibrant color. In the blink of an eye all those wonderful leaves would be on the ground, once again changing the landscape. Green lush grass could become blanketed in cold icy mist creating a sparkling blanket overnight. As morning dawned it would stretch toward the sun and shed its 64
Force of Nature
blanket returning to a rich green carpet. Nature had learned to deal with the elements in a graceful manner. She could learn from this she thought to herself. She could forgive the ice Trip poured over her last night and reach toward the warmth he was willing to give without becoming damaged. It could work with anyone. There was no need to be isolated from humanity, not if she learned how to adapt. She expected too much from people, that was the problem. She expected them to conform to her, understand her. When they didn’t she ran. What she was scared people because they didn’t understand it. She needed to understand their fear. “Maybe that’s what happened last night?” she thought aloud. Trip was only human after all and she scared him on some level. There was no doubt he had wanted her. What was it he said as he pressed her hand against his hard desire? A man doesn’t get this way without wanting a woman. Maybe, just maybe his desire for her scared him. “Oh boy, I’ve made a mess of things.” Instead of trying to ease his fear she scorned him for it. And when he reached out to help her she silently accused him of trying to benefit from it. Markey snorted. “Its not like I have a lot of money he could get.” When it came right down to it she didn’t have anything of worth for him to take. He simply helped her because it was who he is. “I need to make this right.” A blue sign indicating a rest stop shimmered in the sunlight ahead of her. She pushed on the accelerator and drove up along side Trip and hit the button that rolled down the passenger window. When Trip turned to look at her she yelled, “Rest stop,” over the rumble of the motorcycle. When he gave her a confused look she mouthed the words again. He nodded his understanding and she pulled back behind him. They rolled off the interstate and drove up to the small cinder block building and parked. Trip removed his helmet and goggles and then rose from the bike. He watched Markey exit the car with a determined look on her face. “I need to talk to you,” she said with excitement. “I’ve been doing a lot of thinking.” Trip held up his hands to stop her. “So have I. And if we’re going to have some kind of deep conversation I need a cup of coffee.” She watched him walk to the alcove that held a coin-operated coffee machine and waited for him to return. He headed back with two cups in his hands and handed one to her. “Thank you, but what I wanted to say won’t take very long.” “That’s all right. We have time to take a break. Come on, let’s sit down over here.” He walked toward a picnic table and waited for her before he sat down. Markey sat across from him and wrapped her hands around the hot paper cup. She stared down into the steam as it drifted into the crisp air. “I just wanted to apologize for earlier. I’ve been thinking and as you know I don’t have much experience with men and
65
Robin Leigh Miller
how they think. I know you wanted me last night, as much as I wanted you.” She looked up at him now and was surprised with how intently he seemed to be listening. “For some reason you chose not to have me. I’ll admit it hurt, especially your words.” She saw regret in his eyes and looked away. “Instead of trying to understand why you turned me away, I acted immaturely, wallowed in self-pity then became cruel. You were kind enough to help me at the bank then take me home and feed me.” She laughed a little then continued. “I was stupid enough to think you were doing it for some self- serving reason, then I realized I don’t have anything you could gain from.” Trip closed his eyes and swallowed hard. “Anyway, I just wanted you to understand where I was coming from before we parted ways.” A weight felt lifted from her shoulders. She could say goodbye to him now and not hate the only man that showed her what it felt like to be a woman. “That’s all I wanted to say.” They sat in silence for a while sipping coffee. Markey tried to read Trip’s expression but it changed so fast she couldn’t keep up with it. It seemed he was waging some kind of internal war. She certainly hadn’t intended to upset him. Out of the blue Trip stood. “We should get going.” He dumped his remaining coffee on the ground and tossed the cup into a garbage can. Markey chose to keep hers and carried it to her car. When they were back on the interstate Markey let her excitement in meeting this man Trip knew build. Hopefully he would help her learn to control it. Keep it at bay when she needed to and call it forward when the need arose. She could actually picture a better life for herself. The rest of the ride Markey sang to the radio and marveled at the landscape. She talked to herself about how she would try harder to understand people better and not be afraid to talk with strangers. She gave it a shot in the restaurant this morning and found the young waitress Tracy a very friendly young woman. It seemed she had learned a great deal from Trip Lindaur and for that she would be eternally grateful. She hoped he found a place he belonged some day too. She saw Trip’s turn signal blink to life and followed him as he exited the interstate. It wasn’t long before he made another turn down a dirt road. A large sign that read “Private drive” stood at its entrance. The road went on for several miles. Markey noted that there was nothing but forest as far as the eye could see. Finally they drove out of the tree-lined road and into a vast open area. A large white building stood in the center. Markey was surprised at how simple and plain it looked. A ten-foot chain-link fence topped with razor wire separated the forest from the building. “Why on earth would someone need razor wire all the way out here?” she whispered to herself. Trip pulled in front of the building and stopped, Markey pulled alongside him.
66
Force of Nature
She exited the car and waited for Trip. When he stood next to her she asked, “What is this place?” “I’m not sure. I guess he’s a little eccentric. Come on, he’s waiting for us.” Markey followed him the door. Trip pushed what looked like a doorbell but no sound could be heard. He looked above him and saw a camera. The door opened automatically. Trip put his hand on the small of Markey’s back and gently pushed her through the door. They walked into a stark white room that held nothing more than a huge staircase that led to white metal double doors. Markey shivered. “It’ll be okay,” Trip reassured her. The double doors opened and a tall slender man wearing a white lab coat walked through them. “Great, you’re here.” His voice echoed in the empty room. “I hope you found the place without any trouble?” he said walking down the stairs. “No problem,” Trip answered. He walked up and shook Trip’s hand then turned to Markey. “You must be Markey Neville. It’s a pleasure to meet you.” He reached out and took Markey’s hand in his. “It’s a pleasure to meet you Mr.… I’m sorry, I don’t know your name.” “Carl Thorton,” he said with a smile. “This is some place you have Mr. Thorton.” Markey felt a little uneasy, but shook it off. He wasn’t a bad-looking man. His blond hair was cut neatly and parted on the side. His nose was long and slender like the rest of his body with a slight hook on the end. When he smiled his thin lips disappeared. “Thank you. Why don’t the two of you come up to my office and we can talk.” He abruptly turned and headed back up the staircase. Markey looked to Trip for reassurance. He gave her a small smile that didn’t reach his eyes and took her hand. Together they ascended the staircase. Thorton’s office was about as stark as the entry to the building. Instead of a desk he worked at a lab table. Several computers were positioned around the room with notebooks lying next to them. One window over the lab table served to remind Markey there was color outside this blinding white building. Thorton pulled two rolling chairs from the corner of the room and motioned for them to sit. “Can I offer you anything?” he asked as they sat. “No thank you,” Markey said politely. “I understand you had a bit of trouble yesterday.” His eyes were focused on Markey, studying her. “Yes I did. If it wasn’t for Trip things might have gotten out of hand. More than they already were.” “Yes, so he said. Tell me what happened.”
67
Robin Leigh Miller
Markey ran through the events quickly for Thorton. The way he looked at her made her feel strange, as though she was an object instead of a woman. “Interesting. Very interesting. Well, I believe I can help.” His hand slapped on his knee. Markey smiled and looked over at Trip then back to Thorton. “You can?” “I believe we can help each other Miss Neville.” Thorton stood from his chair and walked to his lab table. He pressed a button and continued to smile at them. “Mr. Lindaur I believe our business is concluded. Miss Neville and I will work together just fine.” The double doors opened. Another man entered the room wearing the same white lab coat. His black greasy-looking hair hung straight over his ears. Dark-rimmed glasses made his pale face look ghostly. “If you’ll follow Jesse, Mr. Lindaur, he’ll see you out.” Markey saw Jesse hand Trip a white envelope. He took it and turned toward Markey. “Good luck,” he said before he followed Jesse out the door. What business was Thorton talking about? And what was it that Jesse handed Trip? Markey turned to look at Thorton. “I’m sure you have plenty of questions,” he said. “Yes I do. How is it that you want me to help you?” “I intend to understand how your ability works and apply it in other areas of my research. In the process we will learn together how to control it.” He spoke as if it were the easiest thing on earth. “How are you going to understand how it works?” Fear began to slip through her body. “Experiments. That’s how we understand anything, experimenting with it.” “I don’t think I want you running experiments on me.” She heard the doors open again behind her. Thorton chuckled. “Please Miss Neville don’t be dramatic. You really don’t have much choice.” “What are talking about?” When Thorton’s face changed from pleasant to a hard callous look she knew she was in serious trouble. Markey turned to run for the door and slammed into Jesse. “Trip will…” “Trip was paid to deliver you to me Miss Neville.” Jesse held Markey in a vise-like grip. “What?” “See, I’d heard about you a few years back and decided you were just what I needed so I hired Mr. Lindaur to find you and bring you to me. He’s very good at his job don’t you think.” What was he talking about? Trip was paid to deliver her? Was that what it was all about? Anger welled in the pit of Markey’s stomach. She fueled it with visions of Trip’s face.
68
Force of Nature
The air in the room began to swirl, picking up speed as she replayed the last twentyfour hours in her mind. Thorton pulled a syringe from his pocket. “Now Miss Neville, I’m eager for you to display your talents but let’s do it in a controlled environment shall we?” He plunged the syringe into her arm. Markey screamed as the needle pierced her skin and pumped its poison into her system. The air whipped violently around them then died suddenly as Markey succumbed to its effects.
69
Robin Leigh Miller
Chapter Eight Trip sat outside the building on his bike and wondered if he’d made a terrible mistake. At first it had sounded like a simple job. Find the woman that had paranormal abilities and convince her Thorton could help her. When he saw the turmoil Markey was in he convinced himself it was in her best interest. Now he was having second thoughts. “Don’t be ridiculous,” he scolded himself. The man seemed confident he could help her. A cool wind blew across his shoulders. “Time to store the bike,” he muttered. The weather was changing fast and he couldn’t ride his bike in the snow. He had originally intended to head south. He could always find work there, but now he felt like hanging around. The first thing he needed to do was find a car and a place to stay. He told himself it was just to make sure Markey was making out all right. That was all. Then he realized he didn’t know if she was going to be staying with Thorton or needed to find her own place. “Shit. I should have asked.” He put on his helmet and kick-started his bike. He’d give her a couple of days and come back and check on her. Trip turned the bike around and disappeared down the long lane.
***** Markey awoke dizzy and confused. Her eyelids felt as though they weighed ten pounds apiece. She fluttered them several times before they opened enough to see. She couldn’t seem to focus on anything. Everywhere she looked she saw white. She tried to lift her hands to her face and rub away the fuzziness in her eyes. Panic shot through her when she couldn’t move her arms. Several times she tried to raise her arms but met an invisible wall. She tried to kick her legs and was met with the same result. “What’s wrong with me?” His voice echoed through the room. She fought against the barrier that held her immobile to no avail. “Okay, okay calm down,” she instructed herself. “Think.” She relaxed her body and tried wiggling her toes. When she felt the ten digits move freely she took a deep breath. If she could move her toes then she wasn’t paralyzed. Next she twisted her ankles from side to side. That was another good sign. Once again she tried moving her legs but felt something holding them in place. Markey took a calming breath when she felt the panic begin to return. “Let’s see if I can move my fingers.”
70
Force of Nature
Like her feet, her fingers and wrists moved freely, except she felt something stiff on the back of her left hand. She moved it again and noticed a jabbing sensation beneath her skin. Needing to finish the physical inspection of herself, she focused on her head. As with her arms and legs she felt something holding her head down. Since she could move her mouth and twitch her nose the thought of paralysis was pushed aside. Small spots on her forehead and temples felt like the back of her hand, stiff. She lay still for a moment and searched her mind. What was the last thing she remembered? She recalled having breakfast with Trip in that nice restaurant at the hotel, then the long drive. Didn’t they drive down a dirt driveway? Yes, she thought to herself. Trip brought her to the guy who was supposed to help her. Her heart began to race. Something wasn’t right about the guy, she remembered that clearly. “Think damn it.” Her brain felt like it was rolling around inside her head like a marble. It was probably a good thing she couldn’t move her head. She was afraid if she tried she would vomit. “Okay. Relax.” She took a steady breath and let the memories flow forward. She and Trip walked into, what was his name? Thorton that was it, they walked into Thorton’s office. She told him about her problem and he told her he could help. Trip left and Thorton began to make her uncomfortable. His words muffled in her ears like an old TV set with poor sound. Experiment, he wanted to experiment on her. Markey’s breath came in short pants, her heart accelerated. Sweat began to bead on her forehead. She wanted to leave. She didn’t want this man conducting experiments on her. She remembered trying to leave but being held by that greasy-looking man Jesse. A shiver ran down her spine. Thorton told her she didn’t have any choice. A quick vision of a needle flashed in her eyes. “That son-of-a-bitch drugged me.” She remembered now. The whole ugly truth was clear in her head. Thorton had told her Trip was paid to deliver her to him. She was his lab rat. Markey’s stomach rolled. Bile crept into her throat. She swallowed hard to keep it from rising any higher. How long had she been unconscious? Hours, days, what had he done to her while she was out? Since she could move her hands she slid her finger up against her thigh. “Oh God no.” She didn’t have her jeans on. Fighting her restraints she brushed the inside of her arm against her hip. A thin piece of material slid against her arm. At least she still had her panties on. Next she concentrated on her torso. Now that she was paying attention she could tell she no longer was covered by her sweater. She closed her eyes and fought the tears that burned at the edges. She took a really deep breath and felt the elastic in her bra pull against her skin. A hysterical sob released from her throat.
71
Robin Leigh Miller
Why she should feel relief when it was nothing more than thin, scant material she didn’t know. It certainly would do nothing to stop them from violating her any further, but at least it was something. Had she been completely naked she may have lost the last thread of control she was clinging to. Okay, she silently told herself. Losing it now won’t help get you out of here. Keep your mind busy. If your mind’s busy you won’t come unglued. Her attention returned to her hand and forehead. What felt stiff must be tape of some sort. Obviously she had a needle in her hand. That meant they were giving her more drugs. As for her forehead, she could only speculate. Maybe they were electrodes? Great, she was half naked, strapped to a table in a large white room and being drugged and monitored. This certainly wasn’t the kind of day she was planning. Of course she had Trip to thank for all of it. Trip. Tears burned at her eyes just thinking his name. Was it possible? Did he actually get paid to find her and bring her here? No, she refused to believe it. No one could be that cruel. Thorton was using Trip to make her feel alone and vulnerable. The sound of a door opening startled her. “I see you’re finally awake, good.” She recognized Thorton’s voice immediately. Which way it was coming from she couldn’t tell. It bounced of the irritating white walls. She could hear paper being shuffled or flipped. Her heart beat so hard and fast in her chest she was sure it would pop out. Suddenly he was standing over her, peering down. “What the hell do you think you’re doing?” she hissed between her teeth. When he continued to stare she felt the urge to spit at him. Don’t do it, a voice whispered inside her head. Yeah, it would probably just fall back in her face and he’d let her lie there like that. “You piece of shit what are you doing to me? What are you pumping into my body?” She felt fire spark to life in her stomach. Her core began to warm and spread through her torso. Thorton lifted a clipboard, clicked a pen and began making notes. When he was finished he reached over her and wiggled the clear plastic tube that was feeding liquid into her body. “Where are my clothes you pervert?” A smile stretched across his face as he fiddled with something off to her side. “I swear to God you bastard, I’ll kill you when I get out of here.” The energy was building in her body. Her muscles began to contract. Her vision narrowed on his face. He looked around the room. “Jesse what are the readings?” Jesse’s voice screeched through a speaker located somewhere in the room. “BP’s rising. EKG is off the charts. Sir, you have to see this.” “Print it all out for me Jesse. I’ll study it later.”
72
Force of Nature
He was trying to make her mad. By not answering her he was intentionally trying to make her perform for him. Markey closed her eyes and concentrated. She wouldn’t do it. She would not give him a display and hope he rewarded her after like an animal. It took effort, more effort than she ever put into anything in her life. I won’t do it, I won’t do it, she repeated over and over inside her head. “BP’s leveling out,” Jesse informed Thorton. “Hmm.” Markey could feel him staring into her face. “Open your eyes Markey.” She ignored him, determined not to cooperate. She screamed when he reached down and pried her eyes open and shone a light into them. What the hell was he looking for? Markey blinked away the faint blur of light that lingered in her eyes when he pulled away. She could see him tapping his pen against his lips. He was silent for a while, just watching. When he did speak she wished he had just kept his mouth shut. “Your friend Trip was paid twenty thousand dollars to find you. Did you ever think you were worth twenty thousand dollars?” Markey closed her eyes and tried to ignore him. He would lie to her about Trip if it meant getting what he wanted out of her. She had to stay one step a head of him. “Frankly I always thought I was worth about a million.” She purposely made her tone sound flippant. “When he called me and told me he had found you he said he was being overpaid. You couldn’t be important to anyone.” Markey forced a smile and the opened her eyes and looked directly at him. “I know some people that would disagree.” Thorton frowned. His little game was getting him nowhere. “I know what you’re trying to do,” Markey said continuing to smile. “It won’t work. He doesn’t mean anything to me.” Thorton cocked his head to the side. “I disagree. I think he means a great deal to you.” “Sorry.” Markey looked away and tried to relax her facial muscles. If she looked like she didn’t care maybe he’d believe her. Thorton surprised her by laughing out loud. His deep voice bouncing around the sterile room. “Please Miss Neville. You don’t lie very well. It was written all over your face when you arrived. You two traveled together. As I understand it you left yesterday, that means you spent the night in a hotel. Tell me, did he touch you last night?” Markey’s head felt like it spun around in circles. If it hadn’t been for the restraint she was sure it would have spun right off her body. Stay calm, she warned herself, he’s baiting you.
73
Robin Leigh Miller
“He’s a rather attractive man don’t you think?” “You obviously think so. Maybe you want him to touch you.” She opened her eyes in time to see his head snap back. Gotcha. “Testy. I’m going to guess that you tried to seduce him and he refused.” Thorton made a tisk, tisk sound. “I know how personally females take such rejection.” “I think you know all too much about rejection,” Markey snapped back and then cursed herself for it. “He did refuse. Really Miss Neville a man like him could have any woman he wanted. Did you honestly think he’d want a freak like you?” The word cut through her like a hot knife. Freak. Damn him for touching on the one spot that was like an open wound. Her mind quickly replayed the night before. Wasn’t that what she thought at the time? “Let me tell you about your Trip Lindaur. I contacted him because I was told he was the best in the business when it came to finding people. Of course I tried to find you myself, but he had resources that I can’t begin to understand. He found you within days.” Markey felt her heart begin to sink in her chest like a doomed ship. “To my surprise I see you on the national news at that bank. That was some tornado you concocted inside that building. Of course I saw Trip in the footage as well and could barley contain my excitement. I have to admit when he didn’t contact me right away I was a bit miffed. But when he did call he said you were going to be an easy sell on the idea of coming.” The bow of the ship in her chest took a nose dive. She didn’t want to hear this. It was all lies, it had to be. “Seemed he was in a hurry to get you here and be rid of you.” No, she screamed inside her head. Lies. He couldn’t have done those things to her without feeling something for her, could he? “Since he is the only one that knows—and I could say cares but that seems unlikely—where you are you’ve become my property.” Markey stiffened. He was right. She had no family or friends to care if she disappeared off the face of the Earth. “I see you understand. I truly am the only person who remotely cares about you Miss Neville. Your cooperation will only help your situation.” The fire began to build once more. Its head spread quickly throughout her body reaching to the tips of her fingers and toes. He’d succeeded in his mission, she was royally pissed off. The air in the room began to stir. Thorton smiled as he glanced around. The screechy voice of Jesse came through the speaker, but Markey couldn’t make out what he was saying. The blood was flowing so fast through her veins it roared in her ears. Her vision narrowed to a pinpoint. 74
Force of Nature
She was tired of being anonymous to the world. Tired of having her feelings hurt and her heart broken. Tired of being the freak. No more, damn everyone and what they thought of her. Damn the world. The room hummed with the sound of the air whipping into a frenzy. Thorton’s clipboard jerked from his hand and slammed against the wall. The tails of his lab coat flapped behind him as he clung to the table Markey was laid out on. A replay of Markey’s life flashed before her eyes. The disappointment her father felt for having a daughter. The cruel words her mother spoke when she was at her wit’s end with the bizarre gift Markey was born with. The loneliness in her life without friends. Painful accusations made by those she might consider her friends. Freak. The word echoed in her head over and over again. The thought of possibly finding a man who would understand her and then discovering he only used her. Now the final straw. Being reduced to a lab experiment. The pressure inside Markey’s body built to a level it had never reached before. Her skin felt like it was being stretched like a balloon pumped full of air. Pain slithered through her bones and internal organs, wrapping around them until Markey could no longer stand it. She screamed at the top of her lungs. When she did she felt the pressure release. All its force and energy funneling through her mouth and into the room. Her restraints snapped like a rotted rubber band. The room became a cage for her violent anger. The air spinning and spinning until it reached the wind velocity of an F-three tornado. Thorton was lifted from the floor and sucked into the spinning vortex. Around and around he spun resembling a picture from a child’s fairytale story. Markey rose from the table. Her tunnel vision was tinged with red. She dropped her feet to the floor and stood, staring at her creation. An odd peaceful feeling washed through her as she watched the sick twisted man spiral around the room. The pain had vanished inside her body. This was her chance to escape while he was helplessly caught in her fury. She started to take a step toward the door when an acute stabbing pain ripped through her brain. Markey doubled over holding her head and cried out. Again and again it slashed through her. She dropped to her knees and rocked back and forth helpless. The vicious tornado slowly gave up its hold on Thorton, dropping him to the floor like a rock. Around him the funnel of air decreased in size until it vanished and all was normal inside the room once more. Thorton sat waiting for his head to clear and his vision to focus. Markey continued rocking back and forth crying and screaming from the pain bouncing around inside her head like a pinball. Her stomach seized, collapsing in on itself. She retched violently all over the floor until nothing was left.
75
Robin Leigh Miller
The door opened and Jesse ran to Thorton. “Are you all right?” he asked kneeling down beside his mentor. “Yes, yes I’m fine. Get her strapped back to the table,” he instructed as he tried to pull himself off the floor. Jesse reached under Markey’s arms and dragged her across the floor. He lifted her onto the table. Markey’s body was already beginning to crash from the exhaustive force placed on it. “I need to replace these straps.” Jesse yelled to Thorton. “What’s happening to her?” Thorton staggered over and watched as her legs went board straight and her arms bent at the elbows forcing her hands in her face. Her wrists and hands contorted. Her body hopped up and down on the table as it seized. “Go get something to replace these restraints Jesse.” “Shouldn’t you give her something? It looks like her body’s trying to kill her.” “No.” Thorton answered calmly. “I need to see what happens to her. That’s how we learn Jesse, by observing. No go on. I want her restrained.” Jesse scurried out of the room while Thorton stood and watched the grotesque display before him. His mind contemplated and deduced, calculated and summarized as to why she was having such an incredible and fascinating seizure.
***** As the seizure began to fade and her muscles let loose their unforgiving grip on her body, Markey’s eyes darted around the room. Everything looked the same. No damaged had been done. Then her eyes found Thorton. She could see his hair was mussed. His tie was slung over his shoulder and his lab coat had long rips. The last of the muscle spasms died away leaving her weak. There were no restraints holding her body but it didn’t matter. She didn’t have the strength to run. She was helpless once again. “That was very impressive Miss Neville, nicely done. I knew you were the one I needed to continue my work.” A throbbing, painful pressure began over the bridge of her nose and spread across her forehead. She vowed never to fall for his tactics again no matter how convincing they sounded. “Tell me, do you have seizures like that after every episode?” Markey rolled her head away from him. “Yes, I suppose you do. Quite violent aren’t they, painful as well?” “And you just stood and watched didn’t you?” Her voice was scratchy and rough. “You probably have something in this house of horrors to stop it, but you wanted to be entertained didn’t you.”
76
Force of Nature
“Always the drama,” he huffed as he ran his fingers through his hair. “I could have given you something to stop it, but then I wouldn’t have learned anything would I?” Markey didn’t have the strength to debate with the man. Her head was already in a full-blown migraine and she was losing the battle to stay awake. She closed her eyes and let the darkness swallow her. The last thing she heard was the heavy doors slamming shut. A steady rhythm of pounding woke her. When she risked opening her eyes the room was dark thank God. She tried to roll her head to the side but nothing happened. Not only could she feel the pressure inside her head, but it was on her head as well. “Not again,” she whispered. She still didn’t have the strength to move her limbs but felt hard restraints pressed into her skin. Restraints that felt like metal. Tears spilled from her eyes when she realized her nightmare wasn’t over. How long had she been out? Judging from past experience it had to be at least three or four hours. She recalled becoming so angry she didn’t care if it killed her. The pain was so intense she secretly hoped it would rip her apart, ending this nightmare. Then she remembered how all the pain vanished when she screamed. It felt like everything inside her propelled out of her mouth and into the room. The calmness that replaced it was almost as intense. She thought about that for a moment. When she decided to let it all out, release the full fury the pain released with it. Was that the key? All these years she kept holding it back, letting it bubble and boil inside her body instead of letting it all free. Could it be that simple? The throbbing increased behind her eyes. She focused on trying to understand what happened ignoring the pain. Maybe, she thought to herself, if she allowed it to release as it began to build inside there would be no pain at all. She likened it to a boiling kettle of water. If there was no place for the steam to vent it would all back up inside the kettle, it was as simple as that. She needed to try it. See if her theory was right. But how? The only problem was she still crashed when it was all over. That was just as bad as the gut-ripping pain she experienced during the whole episode. Her mind began to theorize again. She had let it build inside to a dangerous level before releasing it. Maybe that was why her body seized? There was still enough force to wreak havoc. “That has to be it.” Now she just needed to experiment with it. Markey groaned at hearing that awful word in her head. Experiment, it was going to rank right up there with freak when this was all over. If it was ever over. Thorton could keep her here forever and no one would know it, or care. Her body was still too weak to try anything now, but if she was going to escape she would have to start trying before Thorton had the chance to do anything more to her. She was on her own. Markey decided now was as good a time as any to start. She closed her eyes and focused on Thorton’s face. She envisioned him staring at her like something that wasn’t 77
Robin Leigh Miller
human. She let his cruel words replay in her ears. How no one cared about her but him. That was a joke. He cared about what he could learn from her, not her as a person. And damn it that’s what she was, a person not a creepy, beady-eyed rat. Who the hell did he think he was anyway? What gave him the right to act like God? A small fire sparked in her gut. She fueled it with the knowledge that he was pumping drugs into her body without her permission. Drugs that could do irreversible damage. The fire spread throughout her limbs. Markey puckered her lips slightly and blew. The air in front of her face stirred to life. Not just a gentle breeze that would come from a simple release of air, but a forceful swirl. A giggle bubbled up from her throat and escaped. It was a small step but a first step. There was no pain slicing away inside her body. For the first time in her life she had actually controlled the air. A loud click followed by the sound of the doors brushing against the floor echoed in the room. The lights burst to life in the room, flooding it. Markey closed her eyes against the harshness of the light. She couldn’t hear footsteps but she could hear material brushing against material. The sound grew closer. When it stopped she opened her eyes and saw Jesse leering at her. His hair looked greasier than it had the first time she’d seen him. Now that he was closer and she could see his face he looked like a pimple-faced adolescent. She watched as his eyes traveled down her body, lingering on her breasts and between her legs. Markey’s flesh crawled with disgust. “Where are my clothes?” He didn’t answer right away, just let his eyes slid back up her body. “You don’t need them.” She didn’t need them? “I want my clothes.” “They get in the way.” He answered in a monotone voice. “In the way of what?” Markey’s mind scrambled for a logical meaning to that comment. He smiled at her then. A greasy, slimy smile that made Markey’s stomach turn. “When you’re unconscious we run tests on you. We have a great full-body picture hanging in Mr. Thorton’s office. It shows everything.” His smile grew as he spoke. “You sick fuck,” Markey growled. “Such filthy language from such a sexy mouth.” Jesse leaned forward and moved his face inches from hers. Markey was afraid the sicko would try to kiss her. “I wonder what kind of pleasure this mouth could bring.” He lifted his hand and lowered his index finger to touch her lips. Markey was helpless to dodge the contact. To her relief the doors opened again. “Jesse you need to see this. I think I’ve found a common link. Oh, is she awake?”
78
Force of Nature
“Yes Mr. Thorton.” Jesse’s hand pulled away from her face. “How are you feeling Miss Neville?” Thorton asked as he walked across the room. “I’m hungry and could use a painkiller for this headache,” she replied keeping her eyes on Jesse. “I want my clothes too.” “Yes I imagine you are hungry. Your metabolism must burn like a giant furnace. Jesse, get Miss Neville something to eat. As for the painkillers and the clothes, well, no.” He turned to leave then stopped and looked back at her. “You are very special Miss Neville. You may have given me the last piece to the puzzle I’ve been working on for the last eight years.” “Bully for me,” she retorted. Thorton chose to ignore the comment and left the room. Markey lay formulating a plan in the quiet of the room. She had to be sure she could control her ability before she tried to escape. If she couldn’t she would end up in the same state she was in now. The doors opened and Jesse walked in with a tray of food. He set it on a cart that he had tugged away from the wall. Markey watched him as closely as she could. Thorton was a sick man, but Jesse was sick in another kind of way. At least Thorton only cared about what she could do. Jesse walked behind the table where Markey couldn’t see him. The table jerked and began rising. When it was finished moving Markey was standing upright. Jesse pulled the cart of food in front of her. “What, I can’t eat by myself?” she asked when he lifted the fork to her mouth. “No,” he answered simply. “What the hell is it? I’m not opening my mouth until you tell me what it is.” “It’s a frozen dinner. Meatloaf and mashed potatoes.” Markey’s stomach growled. She opened her mouth reluctantly. Jesse slid the fork into her mouth. Markey slowly chewed making sure it was what he said it was. Sure enough, it tasted something like meatloaf. Jesse fed her another forkful. As she chewed, he stared at her breasts. Her eyes watched his hands closely. There probably wasn’t much she could do to stop him from grabbing her, but she didn’t want to be taken by surprise either. “You have nice tits,” he said feeding her more. Markey felt the fire in her gut spark. “If you behave, I’ll give you a sponge bath after dinner.” Jesse licked his thin dry lips and eyed her breasts again. The anger spread through her body. It was mixed with revulsion at the thought of him touching her. She felt it reach her fingers and toes giving her a tingling sensation. Jesse lifted the fork to her mouth with one hand and reached out with his other to grab a handful of her breast. Markey waited for the fork to get in front of her mouth, opened it and released her anger. With a light breath she blew. The flow of air was strong, flinging the food on the 79
Robin Leigh Miller
fork into Jesse’s face. The fork snapped out of his hand, smacked him hard on the cheek sticking there until Markey stopped blowing. Once she did stop blowing Jesse wiped at his face. “Bitch,” he yelled. Markey smiled, pleased with herself. Pleased that she could manipulate the air the way she wanted to, when she wanted to. Her euphoria was short-lived when Jesse reached out and slapped her face hard. Instantly her anger spread through her body. It rushed her unexpectedly, taking her by surprise. She didn’t have time to think or control it. Pressure bubble and boiled inside her body. By the time she thought to release it, pain had taken over her body. She focused on Jesse’s frightened face and then let it all flow toward him. He flew across the room, slamming into the wall. His cheeks pulled back on his face, his ugly black rim glasses shattered. Jesse screamed as small chards of glass embedded in his skin. The doors opened and Thorton ran into the room. He looked at Markey then down at Jesse. “Miss Neville that’s enough,” he shouted over the roar of the wind. Markey brought her attention to Thorton. She would have given him the same, but the pounding in her head was becoming unbearable. As she lost her energy so did the force of the wind. When all was calm she struggled to keep her body under control. The last thing she wanted was Thorton watching her as she crashed. “Jesse, are you okay?” “That bitch,” he whined holding his bloody face. “Let me have a look.” Thorton pulled his hands away from his face and studied the pock marks on Jesse’s skin. “Go to the infirmary. I’ll be along shortly to clean you up.” Thorton helped him to his feet and watched him leave. When he was gone, he turned and walked toward Markey. The look on his face was unreadable. She held her breath, waiting for what came next. He stood in front of her and looked at the food splattered all over the floor. “If this is the way you treat people when they try to nourish you, you’ll receive your nourishment through a tube.” “Your lackey was getting grabby. Have I become his personal sex toy along with your personal science project?” Her limbs began to quiver. It wouldn’t be long before she crashed. Thorton looked at her, his eyes showing a touch of confusion. “You tell him to keep his greasy hands off me and I won’t need to defend myself.” “Nonetheless,” he said walking behind her to let the table back down. “It seems we can’t trust you. I’ll have to keep you drugged until we’re ready to experiment more.” “Trust me? You think you can’t trust me? Gee, I wonder why? Just what is it you keep putting in me?” “It’s a simple drug used in hospitals to keep patients unconscious.” He pulled a syringe from his pocket and jabbed it in her arm. 80
Force of Nature
Markey felt the liquid spread through her veins, relaxing the muscles that were already beginning to spasm. For the first time since her arrival in this hellhole she was glad to be given something to relax her. As the drug spread through her body she felt the darkness surround her until there was nothing but a pin point of light. She smiled just before it winked out.
81
Robin Leigh Miller
Chapter Nine Days had passed by slowly. Markey couldn’t be sure how many days since she was unconscious a good part of the time. When the two demented, self-appointed doctors wanted her to perform for them they allowed her to come out of her drug-induced coma. Once they were finished she received another shot and slipped into oblivion. She hadn’t had a bite of solid food since the incident with Jesse. A bag hung above her and dripped what she referred to as liquid survival into her vein. When she was conscious she could feel how weak her body was. As for the bathroom situation she wasn’t sure how that was being handled. Not once since she entered this hellhole did she leave the white room and use a bathroom. She imagined they were using a bed pan, but became nauseated when she thought of Jesse positioning her on it when she was unconscious. It was better not to torture herself with those thoughts. Every day the table was positioned upright. Thorton or Jesse would enter the room and taunt her with cruel words. She was constantly reminded of how she was alone in the world and no one wanted her. Vulgar names were hurled at her until she could no longer take the verbal abuse. When her anger finally sparked, they would hustle out of the room and observe. Some times she aimed her concentration on the doors they came and went through, hoping she could blow them out. Unfortunately her weakened state diminished her power over the air as the days passed. Thorton grew angry and agitated with her when she no longer responded to the verbal taunting. “You aren’t cooperating Miss Neville. How am I to learn if you don’t show me what you can do?” Markey managed a weak laugh. “There isn’t any left.” She was shocked at how small and pathetic her voice sounded. “Nonsense, you’re a strong woman you have plenty left. We’ve barely scratched the surface.” “I’m so weak and tired.” Thorton stood and studied her. “Very well,” he said turning and leaving the room. She noticed she was left in the upright position, indicating to her they weren’t finished with her yet. No longer caring, she closed her eyes and drifted into a natural state of sleep. She was awoken by the sound of the doors opening again. Thorton walked in wheeling a tray of food. The smell of hot noodle soup filled the room. Markey’s mouth began to water. Finally something solid, she thought to herself. “If you promise to behave you can have something to eat,” he told her.
82
Force of Nature
“If you promise to keep your hands to yourself I’ll behave,” she told him. “No need to worry about that.” He lifted the bowl of soup in his hand and dipped the spoon into the rich broth. “I have no need to molest women.” “Your protégé does.” Markey licked her dry lips in anticipation of the soup. “Yes, well he doesn’t socialize much. I’m afraid his manners need some work.” Thorton filled the spoon with noodles and broth and slid it into Markey’s mouth. She closed her mouth around the warm spoon. Rich, salty flavor exploded on her tongue. She held the noodle and broth mixture in her mouth momentarily enjoying its taste and warmth. When she finally swallowed it slid down her throat easily. When it hit her stomach she felt the withered muscle cramp, rejecting the solid food. Markey fought the urge to vomit. Her stomach seized and heaved, but she refused to allow the food up. When the spasm was over she looked at Thorton. “I trust you’re keeping an eye on him when I’m unconscious. Surely a man such as yourself wouldn’t allow him to take advantage of me?” “Flattery will earn you no points Miss Neville. But yes, I am keeping a close watch on him. Rest assured he doesn’t enter this room without my knowledge or permission.” He fed her another spoonful of soup and waited for her to open her mouth for more. It took only a few minutes for Markey to devour the whole bowl. She could feel her body utilizing every bit of nourishment the soup held. “So what have you learned?” she asked as he placed the bowl on the cart. “Many things, you have a true gift. It’s a shame it was wasted on someone that refuses to use it.” Markey laughed. “If you can find a way to give it to someone else, they’re welcome to have it.” Thorton looked at her with a serious look. “In a sense that’s what I’m trying to do. If I can learn how you do it, I can teach others how to do it.” “What, you’re going to make an army of people that can manipulate the air?” How absurd, she thought to herself. “In a roundabout way yes, the military would be eager for such a weapon.” Markey narrowed her gaze on his face. He was serious. This man was more twisted than she thought. A weapon, she’d never thought of herself as a weapon. “I see you find that idea repulsive. Just imagine if you would, our men and women in the desert. They never know if the next car driving by will explode and kill them. Or, that simple peasant who is so skinny and frail, is he wearing explosives? With your talent they could protect themselves.” “Exactly how is what I do going to protect them?” “Oh Miss Neville you are naïve. Manipulating the air around you means more than trying to blow things down. A soldier could put up an invisible wall around them, rearrange the molecules to make a dense wall of air, a barrier if you will.”
83
Robin Leigh Miller
Markey liked the sound of that. A barrier would keep him and Jesse away from her. “Have you learned how it works?” Her curiosity couldn’t be helped. If he would tell her what he knew she could use it to her advantage. “Somewhat, we all have places in our brain that we don’t use. I won’t bore you with medical words. These places in a normal brain lie inactive. However in your case there is activity all the time even when you’re resting.” “You mean drugged.” “Let’s not quibble over word usage. When you become angry or aggravated the activity increases tenfold. So now I know where it comes from. All I have to do is figure out how to replicate the activity in a normal brain.” “Normal brain, that’s something you don’t know much about is it?” “Now, I’m going to take a chance and let you rest without sedating you.” He walked behind her and lowered the table. “If you don’t create any mischief I’ll bring you more food later.” Mischief, this guy’s choice of words amused her. “I’m too tired for mischief.” “Good, rest up.” Thorton rolled the cart out of the room and turned the lights out. Weary from the effort it took to eat and hold a conversation with the doctor Markey drifted off. In her dreams she stood free from bondage and held three large cats at bay with a wall of air. One cat was sleek, his coat a shiny gray. His large teeth were bared as he hissed at her. The second cat was smaller than the first, blood dripped from his fangs. His orange coat was matted and dirty. Both cats pranced around the invisible wall. Behind them stood a majestic looking panther with a black coat that shimmered in the sunlight. He watched with amusement as the other two became frantic, pacing and clawing at the ground. He lifted his huge paw to his mouth and lapped at it with a wide tongue. There was something familiar about this cat. His eyes were odd, not the green or brown a feline usually sported. No these were hazel. Markey watched as the cat rose and stretched its muscular body. Its eyes pinned her to where she stood. He stalked around the edge of the barrier, sniffing. Suddenly he stopped and looked at her with laughter in his eyes. Markey gasped as the cat walked right through her barrier. “Rise and shine.” Thorton’s voice jolted Markey from her dream. She blinked several times to adjust her eyes to the harsh light in the room. Thorton stood with another cart beside him. Was it time to eat again? This cart had a towel draped over it. Jesse stood next to him with a smirk on his face. His greasy hair hung in clumps around his face. Small bandages dotted the outer edges of his eyes. Markey assumed it was from where Thorton had dug glass from his face. Thorton moved behind her to position the table. Jesse made a crude motion with his tongue, darting it in and out of his mouth. Markey’s stomach rolled with nausea.
84
Force of Nature
“What’s going on?” she asked. “He isn’t going to feed me is he?” “No he’s not,” Thorton replied moving around in front of her. “Jesse had a brilliant idea. Since our tactics are losing their effectiveness he came up with another way to stir your anger.” Her eyes darted back and forth between the two men. Dear God what now, she cried silently. “What are you talking about?” Jesse reached out and removed the towel covering the cart. He picked up a long metal tube with a handle and a trigger on the end. Jesse pulled the trigger, a glowing arc of electricity crackled from the end. He laughed out load when she gasped. “This is a cattle prod. It’s used to encourage large farm animals to move.” Thorton told her. “You sick fuck,” she whispered. They were actually going to use that thing on her. “How well you perform will depend on how many times you receive a shock. I suggest you think about where you focus your energy Miss Neville. Jesse is a valuable person to me. I don’t want him hurt. If he gets hurt, well let’s just say you and this device will become well acquainted.” This can’t be happening, she screamed inside her head. She watched Thorton exit the room. Jesse stood before her with a smile that was as greasy as his hair. “Don’t you touch me with that,” she warned. “I don’t care what he says I’ll pummel you until there’s nothing left.” “Where should I start?” he asked moving his eyes up and down her body. “I think maybe on some very tender skin.” “Okay Jesse we’re ready to begin.” Thorton’s voice echoed over the speaker. Markey felt her heart race. She panted to catch her breath. Jesse stretched his arm out. “No,” she screamed as he touched the end to her abdomen and pulled the trigger. Nothing happened. Markey braced herself for the painful shock but all she felt was the cool metal of the prod. She opened her eyes and saw Jesse’s face flush with laughter. It was a game, a setup. “You sick twisted piece of shit.” Fire sparked to life and spread with fury throughout her body. She opened her mouth and blew as hard as she could toward Jesse. The funnel of air lifted him off his feet and drove him into the wall. He hung there like a dirty nasty coat on a hanger. She concentrated all her attention on the slime in front of her. The air in the rest of the room was perfectly still allowing Thorton to move freely toward her. Because she was so focused on Jesse she didn’t see Thorton pick up the cattle prod. Sharp burning pain zipped through her body. Her vision blurred when she screamed with agony. A new fire burned through her but it wasn’t of her making. Her muscles twitched uncontrollably. Again and again she felt a new wave of electricity course through her. 85
Robin Leigh Miller
When it finally stopped she slumped as much as her restraints allowed her. The aftermath of the shock continued to race around her nervous system. “I warned you Miss Neville. Jesse was not to be hurt.” He walked toward the wall and found Jesse in a heap on the floor. Thorton checked him over and deduced that he wasn’t physically hurt. Jesse however didn’t see it that way. He snatched the prod from Thorton’s hand and pushed him aside. Markey could see him coming but was powerless to stop him. He stretched out his arm and jammed the prod into her thigh. Markey screamed again. Her leg jolted under the metal restraints. Fire screamed through her body as every nerve twitched with pain. “That’s enough Jesse.” Thorton grabbed the prod from his hand and pushed him across the room until he was out the door. Thorton returned to the table. “It looks as though we’ve found a new way to gain your cooperation.” “Bastard,” she panted, “both of you.” “That’s a matter of opinion. You’ll be glad to know that your little outburst gave me the last bit of information I needed. It’s now time to move on to process number two.” “Oh yeah, what’s that?” Markey felt the muscles in her body twitching. “It’s time to study your brain Miss Neville.” “Isn’t that what you’ve been doing?” Her breathing was beginning to return to normal. “I’m sorry, that’s not what I meant. I’ll be clearer. I have to open your head and figure out how everything is connected. Once I understand that I can move forward.” Open her head, brain surgery? Was there no end to the torture? “Rest well Miss Neville. When we see each other again we’ll begin the next phase.” Thorton left her upright and turned out the lights as he left the room. This was it, Markey thought to herself, she was coming to the end of her life. Tears rolled down her face. She closed her eyes and prayed for God to take her now. “Please don’t let this happen to me,” she sobbed. “Please end it before he hurts me any more.”
86
Force of Nature
Chapter Ten Trip rolled past the end of the long driveway for the fourth time in eight days. It had been twelve days since he dropped Markey off at Thorton’s. He found a storage facility and parked his bike then purchased a used car. He found a nice little cabin to rent that reminded him of Markey’s. He told himself it had nothing to do with her—he just liked the thought of living in a cabin. Nothing he did had anything to do with her. Not his unwillingness to leave the area, not the need to drive by Thorton’s everyday, nothing. “Jackass,” he muttered to himself. It had everything to do with her. Every morning he woke with a hard-on from dreaming about her. He could still recall how soft her skin was, how she tasted on his lips. The soft little mews she made when he pleasured her. He missed her witty comebacks, her smile and her huge heart. He had spent little more than twenty four hours with the woman and he was lost, sunk, a hopeless cause. And the worst part was he liked it. Any woman that could have a virtual orgasm over eating chocolate was worth sticking around for. Trip parked the car down the road. He could drive up and have a look, knock on the door and ask to see her. What would that hurt? “Can’t hurt,” he answered himself. He made a U-turn on the dirt road and started up the long driveway. When he reached the clearing the building stood in shivers ran down his spine. “Funny,” he thought, “that happened the last time too.” Trip saw Markey’s car sitting exactly where she parked it two weeks ago. The hair on the back of his neck stood up. Settle down, he instructed himself. Maybe she parks there everyday. He pulled alongside it and parked. When he slid from the car he decided to have a look. Trip walked over to the driver’s door and peeked inside. The coffee cup was still there from the rest stop. A slimy film had coated the top. Markey didn’t strike him as the type to leave trash in her car. He walked around the outside but saw nothing unusual. Trip shrugged and walked to the front door and rang the bell. Remembering the camera he looked up into it so Thorton would know who it was. He stood for five minutes before Thorton himself opened the door. “Mr. Lindaur what can I do for you? I believe we’ve concluded our business.” Trip noticed how he blocked the open door with his body. “I stopped by to see how Markey’s doing. Can I see her?” A look of surprise flashed across Thorton’s face. “Why?” “Why?” Something wasn’t right, Trip could feel it in his gut. “I don’t believe that’s any of your business Thorton. I want to see Markey.”
87
Robin Leigh Miller
Thorton’s eyebrows furrowed. “I’m afraid she doesn’t want to see you Mr. Lindaur. You see I had to tell her you were hired to find her and bring her here. She doesn’t hold the highest regard for you right now.” Great he had to tell her. “I’d still like to see her.” “I’m sorry but we are incredibly busy. You’ll have to go.” Thorton began to shut the door when Trip shoved his foot between it and the door jamb. “She did tell you about the Thanksgiving dinner at her aunt’s house didn’t she? She’ll have to leave in two days to make it there on time.” Thorton’s face turned white. “Of course she did.” “Good, because I’ve talked to her aunt and she is really excited about both of us coming. I know Markey tends to forget sharing that kind of information.” “Yes, about that. I was sure you told me she had no family.” His face grew whiter by the second. “I didn’t think she did but hey, everyone has their little secrets. Why, does it matter?” “Of course not, if you don’t mind I need to get back to work.” “Sure, just tell her I’ll pick her up in two days.” Thorton nodded his head and slammed the door shut. Trip cursed under his breath. “Aunt my ass,” he mumbled. There was definitely something wrong inside that building. Trip wandered to the side of the building and looked around for a window. When he couldn’t find one he walked all the way around the building. The only windows were at least three stories up. “Damn, I need to see what’s going on in there.” He walked back to his car and pulled away. Tonight he’d come back and try to find a way inside. Dread filled his chest, if anything happened to her because he brought her, well, Thorton would pay dearly. He glanced at his watch. Four hours until darkness that gave him time to gather a few supplies.
***** As the sun sank for the evening Trip parked his car where it couldn’t be seen by Thorton or that strange little guy who worked for him. He pulled a duffle bag from the trunk and began hiking through the woods. He figured by the time he got to the compound Thorton and crew would be gone for the night. Thick brush slowed his pace, but he kept a picture of Markey in his mind. He had to know what was happening in that building. Things didn’t feel right and he’d been in this business long enough to trust his feelings, except when it came to Markey. Those he doubted at every turn, until now. Trip recalled the conversation he had with Thorton earlier in the day. When he decided to throw out a little test, Thorton nearly swallowed his tongue. That line about her aunt just solidified his doubt in the good doctor.
88
Force of Nature
As soon as he got his hands on Markey he’d spirit her away and find out exactly what the hell was happening. So what if she was mad about how he came to meet her, she’d just have to get over it. And if she thought she was going to use that wind business on him she had another thing coming. She didn’t scare him. He knew how to break down her barrier. Trip neared the edge of the woods and dropped his duffle bag to the ground. It was too dark to see much so he pulled a pair of night vision goggles from the bag. His second choice was a listening device that would pick up a conversation a mile away. He positioned the ear piece and set up the antenna. Trip settled among the thick brush and pulled his stocking hat down over his ears. Damn it was cold tonight. His breath steamed from his mouth as he lifted the binoculars to his eyes. He could see the front of the building. Markey’s car was still sitting in the same spot it was earlier. “Not a good sign,” he whispered. An hour passed with no one leaving the building. Trip lowered the glasses and rubbed his tired eyes. The cold had sunk deep inside his body, chilling his bones. He figured it would take two hot showers and at least three shots of whiskey before he felt any warmth again. A clicking sounded in his ear. He put the glasses to his eyes and watched patiently. The front door to the building opened. Thorton and his sidekick walked out the door. “Are you sure you don’t want me to stay Mr. Thorton?” Jesse’s voice crackled in Trip’s ear. “No Jesse. You’ve put in just as many hours as I have. Go home and get some rest. I want us both well rested before we begin the next phase tomorrow.” “You’re sure everything will be okay without us here?” Trip didn’t like the sound of that. If the hair on the back of his neck wasn’t all ready standing from the cold, it would be now. “Everything will be fine. I made sure of it. Go home Jesse, I’ll see you tomorrow.” “Yes sir.” Jesse headed to his car and crawled in. Thorton waited until he backed out then turned and locked the heavy doors. Trip watched until Thorton pulled out and disappeared down the lane. He picked up his duffel bag and started across the open area. He crept slowly and stayed low. If Thorton had a camera at the door, then maybe he had one watching the grounds. He tried to stay in the shadows as much as possible as he skirted around the side of the building. He chose a window at the back to try to make an entrance. Trip pulled a rope with a hook on the end out of the bag. After two swings he launched the hook toward the window and hoped it wouldn’t break the glass. A scraping sound disrupted the silence of the night. Trip gave a hard tug, digging the sharp end of the hook into the soft wood of the windowsill. After a few more tugs to be sure it would hold he leaned over and went through his bag.
89
Robin Leigh Miller
He shoved a knife in his boot, a glass cutter in his pants pocket and the pen light he held between his teeth. Finished with night vision goggles and hearing device, he tucked them securely into his bag. He kicked the bag up against the building and then grasped the rope. He kicked his feet up against the wall and began climbing. It didn’t take long for him to reach the window. When he felt comfortable that no one was inside the room he focused on his entrance. Trip let one foot drop and hooked it around the rope. With a few twists of his ankle he had a secure foot hold in the rope. Trip pushed against the window and was surprised to find it unlocked. It took very little force to open it. Before he climbed through he shone the light inside the room. It looked empty so he reached in with his arms, hooked them under the sill and heaved his body through the window. Inside he found empty chairs, tables and carts. “Must be storage.” He moved to the door and was once again surprised to find it unlocked. He cracked open the door and peered into a dark hallway. Before stepping out he listened for any voices or sounds to indicate someone was still here. Silence filled the air. He stepped into the hallway and scanned the walls with his light. There were only two doors. Trip opened the first door and flashed his light around the room. It looked as though it was used as a bedroom. A cot was up against the wall while a desk occupied the opposite wall. Trip riffled through the desk and found a few porn magazines and a couple of packs of cigarettes. In the lower drawer he found a half full bottle of whiskey. The next room held bookcases of file folders and notebooks. “This must be where Thorton stores his notes,” Trip thought aloud. If he had more time he’d scan briefly through them. Right now all he wanted to do was find out what was going on with Markey. He exited the room and wandered down the hallway until it took a sharp left. Trip scanned the hallway with his light and found three more doors. Each door was unlocked and each room was completely empty. At the end of that hallway was a set of stairs leading to the second floor. Like a prowling cat Trip took each step as quietly as possible. When he reached the landing he was met by a thick metal door. He leaned on the bar that opened it. The clicking sound it made echoed throughout the stairwell. Trip waited for a few seconds, listening for any movement. When he didn’t hear any he continued through the door and into a carbon copy of the hallway he just left. Patiently he opened each door and scanned the contents. Out of the five rooms only one held any type of contents. And those contents made Trip’s blood run cold. He stepped into the middle of the room and stumbled over a small bag. Trip bent down and picked it up. His heartbeat stalled briefly before it kicked into overdrive. His breathing became fast and heavy. In his hand he held Markey’s makeup bag. He pointed his light directly
90
Force of Nature
in front of him and saw dozens of suitcases tossed on top of one another. That feeling of dread he’d had earlier turned to alarm. Trip took several minutes opening suitcases and tossing them aside. Each one was filled with clothing. Men’s clothing, women’s clothing and the smallest case of all held what looked like a teenage girl’s personal belongings. He pulled out a ratty torn picture of a woman, a man and a pretty young girl. There was a pink diary that Trip opened and read from briefly. “Jesus,” he whispered. The two pages he read indicated that this poor girl had some sort of paranormal ability like Markey did. She was excited because she found a man who had promised to help her with it. The date on the entry read June 16, 2002. Trip’s stomach dropped to his feet like he was on the downhill track of a roller coaster. Was this bastard collecting people? What happened to the girl that owned this diary? Urgency drove him out of the room and down another flight of stairs. Instead of being careful or quiet he charged through the door and found himself outside Thorton’s office. Trip put his ear to the door and listened for any movement. Nothing. Since he already knew what was behind that door he hurried down the steps into the lobby. The building was too big for all this unused space. There had to be more rooms, he thought. He walked around the perimeter of the room shining his light with one hand and feeling the wall with his other. When he reached the end wall he felt a long straight crack. Trip backed up and followed the crack with his light. “It’s a door.” Since the whole damn place was white it was hard to tell the door from the wall, but there was no doorknob. Trip placed his hand in the center and pushed. To his surprise it popped open revealing a whole other section of the building. Frustrated and angry he rubbed his jaw with his hand. He had to keep going. What if Markey was being held somewhere inside this building? Trip stepped through the door and closed it behind him. He found a kitchen equipped with an oven, refrigerator and a microwave. He opened all the cupboards to find them stocked with heat and serve food. The fridge was stocked with water, cans of soda and a few bottles of condiments. The next room looked like a nurse’s office in a school. There was the small bed for someone to lie on, a bathroom and cabinets filled with alcohol, iodine and bandages. Trip stepped into the bathroom and glanced around. In the waste basket was a few gauze pads dotted with blood. He had no way of knowing whose blood it was, but it fueled his urgency further. He walked briskly down the hall and opened the first door he came to and flicked the light switch. Bright fluorescent light flickered to life revealing some sort of control room with a giant pane of glass. Trip walked up to the glass and looked into a large room holding nothing but a table.
91
Robin Leigh Miller
He exited the room and moved onto the next. There he found the same setup. His heart raced faster. His brain was repeating over and over again experiments. When he reached the final door he opened it, flicked on the light and stood very still. This room was being used. Papers were stacked neatly on the counter next to a laptop. Machines that were used in hospitals were beeping and humming, pumping out strips of paper with squiggly lines. “Markey,” he whispered. She was in there he could feel it. Trip moved slowly to the door that would open into the large room on the other side of the wall. He pushed it opened, slid his hand down the wall until he felt the light switch and turned it on. His knees buckled. “Son of a bitch.”
92
Force of Nature
Chapter Eleven Trip’s brain struggled to comprehend what he was seeing. A mixture of emotion ran through his body, anger, hatred for Thorton and for himself, fear and nausea. “No,” he gasped. Markey was held to a table by metal straps. One strap was across her forehead, two across her torso and two across her legs. Her long wavy hair was matted and filthy. Trip let his eyes drop to her body. She wore only a bra and panties. He noticed her hip bones were protruding more than they had been and her stomach was sunk in. He could count every rib she had. Trip slowly moved toward her. She was either sleeping or drugged, he couldn’t tell which. When he was directly in front of her he noticed a severe burn that was beginning to blister on her tummy and another on her thigh. “What did that bastard do to you?” Trip jumped when Markey’s eyes flew open. “Come to see the freak?” Her voice was hoarse and scratchy. Trip shook his head. “I have to get you out of here.” He moved to the side of the table and studied the straps holding her in place. Luckily they were held by latches that he could easily release. “Just kill me now before he opens my head up,” she croaked. “What? I’m not going to kill you.” He released the lowest strap on her legs first. When he pulled it back he cursed. The metal had been so tight it cut into her flesh. “You pretty much already have,” she said simply. “I didn’t know Markey. I swear to you I didn’t know he’d do this.” Trip released the second strap and nearly gagged when it pulled infected flesh with it. Markey whimpered as the pain burned through her legs. “How long have I been here?” “Twelve fucking days. I’ll kill that bastard when I see him, I promise you that.” The strap holding her lower arms popped free revealing more cut and infected skin. Markey managed to chuckle. “Won’t that put a damper on the party?” Trip was actually relieved to hear her witty reply. “He’s going to get a party all over his skull.” A loud thud echoed through the building. Trip froze, his heart sputtered. “He’s baaack,” Markey whispered. Trip got right up in her face. “I’m not leaving you here.” He lifted his hand to her face and brushed his fingers down her cheek. “I promise sweetheart we’ll leave this
93
Robin Leigh Miller
building together.” He pushed the metal straps back over her legs and arms and then moved across the room and killed the lights. Markey could hear him moving around the room but couldn’t see him. Was that murder she saw in his eyes? Did he actually care for her welfare, or was he angry because he’d been dragged into the middle of it? The door swung open and the lights flickered to life again. Markey felt her heart sink to her feet. It was Jesse. The creep that wasn’t allowed in the room alone with her. Fear sliced through her and then quickly subsided. Trip was here. Even if he didn’t care for her he wouldn’t allow this slime to rape her. “What are you doing here?” Markey asked. “You’re not supposed to be in here without Thorton.” Jesse smiled as he walked toward her. “Mr. Thorton has business in town tonight. I just couldn’t leave you here all alone. Besides, you have some payback coming.” “That wouldn’t have happened if you’d kept your hands to yourself.” “Markey, remember your place. You’re the lab rat, you have no choice. If I want to touch you I can.” Markey swallowed hard. “I’ll tell Thorton.” Jesse giggled like a little girl. “Do you honestly think he’ll believe you? I’ve been working with him for the last three years. I’m his only friend.” “He believed me when I told him you grabbed my breast.” His face hardened. “Yes he did,” then he smiled again, “until I told him you had food on you and I was only trying to remove it. But that doesn’t account for throwing me across the room.” He pulled the cattle prod from underneath his white lab coat. Markey gasped. “I found myself quite turned on watching you twitch when we used this. Since Thorton won’t be returning ‘til morning I figured you could entertain me for a while.” He reached out with the prod. Markey didn’t see Trip deliver the blow. All she saw was Jesse crumple to the ground in a heap. She released the breath she’d been holding and nearly cried. “What the fuck is that thing?” Trip asked looking down at Jesse. “Just a little something they use to get my attention.” Markey hiccupped on a sob. Tears spilled over her cheeks. Trip watched the fat tears drip off her chin. In a million years he would never be able to make up for this. “Come on sweetheart. Let’s get you out of here.” Trip removed the rest of the restraints, catching her when she slumped from the table. “I can’t walk. I’m too weak.” Trip lifted her in his arms. He cursed under his breath when he felt how light she was. The bastards were starving her.
94
Force of Nature
Markey rested her head on his shoulder as he carried her down the hall and into the lobby of the building. When Trip felt her shiver he set her down on the floor and removed his leather jacket. “It’s cold outside. My car is about a mile away. I’ll leave you here and go get it.” “No. You can’t leave me here again. You promised we’d leave together. You promised.” With what little strength she had she wrapped her fists in his shirt and held on. Her words cut deep into Trip’s heart. He didn’t want to leave her there, but it was freezing outside and all she had on was underwear. “I don’t want to honey.” He brushed her hair away from her face as he spoke. “I can’t carry you all the way to the car. Even if I could it must be twenty degrees outside. You can’t handle that cold in your condition.” Markey knew he was right. The cold tile floor was all ready making her shiver. “Okay. Just let me hide while you’re gone.” She released his shirt and wiped the tears away from her face. Her head was screaming not to trust him, but her gut was saying give him a chance. At this point what did she have to lose? Trip looked around the room and decided to hide her under the stairs. He lifted her again and carried her across the room. As gently as possible he scooted her into the small space. “I’ll be a quick as I can.” Markey nodded and prepared for the wait. Before Trip took off, he leaned in toward her and took her mouth with his, giving her a tender kiss. When he pulled back Markey’s eyes were wide with question. “We have a lot to talk about,” he told her and then disappeared into the darkness. Markey was stunned. What was that? And what did he mean they had a lot to talk about? What was there to talk about? If she got out of here alive she was running as far away as possible. What Trip did wasn’t her concern. Markey touched her lips with her fingertips. She could still feel his pressure against them. Her mind flashed back to the night in the hotel room and how he made her scream his name. “Don’t be foolish. You’re sitting here in your underwear. You spent the last two weeks being tortured and you fantasize about his mouth.” There was something seriously wrong with her. Besides, didn’t he lie to her? Didn’t he get paid to bring her to this hellhole? It was his fault all this happened in the first place. The sound of shuffling interrupted her private lecture. She listened carefully. It was coming from across the room. Markey huddled deeper in the small space. The shuffling grew closer then she could see what it was. Jesse had come to and was prowling around the building. “I’ll kill her,” he mumbled to himself, “I’ll kill her with my bare hands after I play with her.” Markey began to shake. She feared Jesse more than she did Thorton. Thorton’s only interest in her was science. Jesse had other perverted interests. Where the hell was Trip?
95
Robin Leigh Miller
Jesse shuffled toward the stairs. Markey pulled her legs against her body as close as she could get them. If he found her she was afraid it would be all over. He could easily drag her into a room and barricade them inside. “I see you. Did you think you could get away so easily?” Icy fingers twisted her guts. Did he really see her or was he trying to trick her? She stayed perfectly still, holding her breath and praying Trip didn’t leave her again. A scream ripped through the room when Jesse reached under the stairs and grabbed her by the ankle. With the little strength she had she kicked. His grip tightened and pulled her out from her hiding spot. “Come here you little rat.” He dragged her across the floor toward the door that led to the room she’d been kept in. “I’m not going back in there,” she screamed, kicking and clawing at his hand. “You have surgery tomorrow.” He stopped pulling her and reached out with his free hand and slapped her across the face. The fear that kept her from becoming angry withered away. An internal fire ignited, spreading throughout her body. Markey narrowed her vision on him and opened her mouth. “No you don’t.” He balled his fist and rammed it into her face. Markey’s head snapped back. White light exploded in her eyes while pain rippled through her jaw. She felt her hair being pulled and her bottom sliding across the tile floor. “Get your hand off her you piece of shit.” Trip, it was Trip he’d come back for her. She felt the hold on her hair loosen. “You should have taken your money and left town Lindaur. Thorton won’t be happy when he hears what you’ve done.” “My heart is breaking.” Trip pulled his fist back and delivered a bone-shattering blow. Jesse fell to the floor next to Markey, blood pouring from his lip. Trip reached down and gathered Markey in his arms. Before he could stand a sharp pain exploded in his head. The force pushed him forward and on top of Markey. “More than your heart’s gonna break.” Jesse kicked Trip in the ribs, rolling him off of Markey. “No!” she screamed watching Jesse pummel Trip over and over again. Trip managed to reach up and grab Jesse’s foot before he delivered another blow. He twisted the foot flipping Jesse onto the floor. Trip pulled himself toward the bloody man and then straddled him. His fist pounded into Jesse’s face over and over again. “Trip stop you’re going to kill him!” Markey pulled herself over to the two men and grabbed Trip’s raised fist. “No more.” Trip stared down at the bloody misshapen face. Everything inside him screamed to finish the job. When he looked at Markey he came to his senses. They had to move. He
96
Force of Nature
had to get her out of here before Thorton decided to show up. He crawled off Jesse and gathered Markey into his arms. He ignored the pain searing his ribs and picked her up. As fast as he could he pushed through the doors and toward his car. In a very coordinated fashion he bent his knees, used the hand holding her legs and opened the car door. Gently he placed her on the seat and shut the door. Trip ran around the car and jumped inside. Thankfully he had left it running so warm air was beginning to pour from the vents. He threw it into gear and tore down the driveway. Trip gave a quick glance in the rear view mirror and saw Jesse on all fours in the door. “Can you put your seat belt on?” he asked Markey. “Yes.” She slid it across her body and snapped the latch. “Trip?” “Yeah?” “Thank you.” Completely exhausted she laid her head back, closed her eyes and missed the angry look Trip gave her. He didn’t say anything, just turned up the heat and pressed the accelerator to the floor. By the time they reached the main road Markey was sleeping. Sure that she was out, he ran his hand over his ribs. You deserve worse he thought, a whole hell of a lot worse. The back of his head throbbed and his vision was blurry but he couldn’t stop. He had to get her back to his place. He was sure an even bigger fight was waiting when they got there.
***** Markey felt her body being lifted from the car and jumped. Her hands fisted and began swinging. “Easy sweetheart it’s just me. You’re safe.” Markey looked up at him. When she realized who it was she said, “That’s a matter of opinion.” Trip furrowed his brow and then continued removing her from the car. Markey shivered in his arms. “I’ll start a fire and get you warm.” With skill he opened the door and carried her inside. Markey looked around the room. It was so dark she couldn’t see much. Trip settled her on a soft couch and covered her with a blanket. He quickly went to work starting a fire. Markey watched his back as he worked. “This seems familiar,” she whispered in the darkness. Trip heard her, knew what she was talking about but chose not to respond. The fire crackled and popped to life spreading a warm orange glow throughout the room. He stood and brushed his hands on his jeans and then turned toward her. “I’ll run you a hot bath.”
97
Robin Leigh Miller
Markey noticed how he couldn’t look her in the eyes. It was clear he was struggling with the result of his actions. A struggle, she decided, he needed to wage a little bit longer. “Thank you. That would be great. I haven’t bathed since we left the hotel.” She watched Trip clench his jaw before he turned and walked away.
***** Markey could hear the water running in the bathroom. She took the few moments alone to take in her surroundings. There were no lights on in the room but the fire’s glow illuminated enough for her see that she was in basically the same kind of cabin she had lived in weeks ago. The kitchen area seemed larger, large enough for a nice oak table big enough to seat four. A breakfast bar separated the kitchen from the living room. She noted there was a bowl of fresh fruit sitting on the bar. Her stomach gave a long rumbling growl. Ignoring it she looked around the living room. It too was larger than hers. Trip had furnished it with a full couch and two matching recliners. She noted there was no television in the room, but there was a thick notebook on the coffee table in front of her along with a laptop. Her fingers itched to reach out and flip through the notebook. “It’s none of my business,” she whispered. The sound of water running stopped. Trip reappeared in the living room. “Your bath is ready. I didn’t have any bubble bath, but I do have some shampoo you can use.” “That’s okay. Hot water is all I need.” Markey pushed the blanket aside and lowered her legs to the floor. When she tried to stand her legs crumpled underneath her. “Damn. I guess that corny saying is true. Use it or lose it.” Trip was by her side before she was done speaking. His arm slid gently around her waist, lifting her upright. “I’ll help you back to the bathroom.” Markey opened her mouth to protest but realized it was futile. She was too weak to walk on her own. “That would be nice. I’m not into crawling.” Trip replied with a halfhearted grunt and then eased her down the hallway. As he helped her through the door Markey’s eyes widened with surprise. It was three times bigger than hers was. The sink was an imitation gray marble with a beautiful etched oval mirror hanging above it. There were enough pine cabinets to hold towels and toiletries and just about anything else you wanted to store. “Ohmygosh.” At the end of the bathroom was a claw foot tub big enough for two people. “This is beautiful.” Trip walked her over to the toilet and let her sit on the closed lid. He rubbed his chin with hand and looked around. Since she was so weak he needed to have everything close at hand for her. He pulled a fresh towel from one of the cabinets and draped it over the side of the tub. The shampoo and soap were already sitting on a small shelf that hooked over the tub.
98
Force of Nature
“Is there anything else you’ll need?” His eyes focused on her thigh. The burn was becoming a bright red blister. Markey followed his eyes down to her leg. “Compliments of the cattle prod,” she commented. When Markey glanced back up into Trip’s eyes she lost her breath. Were those almost tears she saw? It unsettled her so much she looked away. “It’s a good thing I’m so tough don’t ya think?” Instead of replying he knelt down in front of her and ran the tip of his finger around the outside edge of the blister. Markey’s skin quivered under his touch while her stomach released a handful of butterflies. Trip moved his attention to the half-dollar size blister on her tummy. Please don’t touch me, she whispered in her head. Too late, Trip circled the blister with the tip of his finger. The handful of butterflies in her stomach multiplied into a hundred. Markey tried to suppress a shiver but was unsuccessful. Trip mistook it for her being cold and stood. “Is there anything else you need?” “No.” Just a head shrink to figure out why I still want you so badly after what you’ve done, she finished in her head. Trip moved toward the door and stopped before shutting it. “I know I’m not the person you want help from but if you do need help, call me.” The door shut and Markey could hear his footsteps move away from the door. She let out a huge breath and rubbed her eyes. What the hell was wrong with her? She just spent two weeks being tortured and starved because of him. Why the hell did he still make her tingle all over by just looking at her and her feeling his touch? Had Thorton’s tactics somehow messed up her head? That had to be it. She wasn’t thinking clearly because of the drug he kept giving her, add to that the lack of food in her system and her brain was working at half capacity. That was easy enough to remedy. A day or two without being drugged and some solid food would put her back in the right frame of mind. Secure with her reasoning, she reached behind her and tried to unhook her bra. Her arms reached only halfway before they began to cramp. “Damn it,” she hissed stretching her arms out and shaking them. After a few moments she tried again. Again they began to cramp. “Don’t do this to me,” she whined. “I knew I should have gotten a front clasp.” One more time she reached behind her back and pushed past the pain and unhooked her bra. Markey held it out in front of her and wrinkled her nose. “No way am I ever wearing that again.” The cotton material was stained with spots. She didn’t even want to try to recall how they got there or what they were from. With a flick of her wrist she tossed it into the wastebasket next to the toilet. She looked down at her panties and sighed. They held stains as well. “Don’t think about it,” she told herself. Her fingers slipped into the elastic band and started sliding them over her hips. She scooted her bottom on top of the toilet lid until her panties were
99
Robin Leigh Miller
down around her thighs. Carefully she eased them over the blister on her thigh and down to her ankles. Without thinking she leaned over to pick them up and cried out in pain. The blister on her tummy protested the movement. An acute stabbing pain followed by a burning sensation spread across her skin. Markey straightened, holding her breath until the pain passed. “Markey are you all right?” She looked at the door hoping Trip wouldn’t rush in to see what happened. “I’m fine,” she answered trying to mask the pain in her voice. When she heard him walk away she tried to stand. Her legs were so weak she dropped to the floor. “Okay, I can crawl from here.” Using her arms she dragged herself to the tub and managed to slide herself into the hot water. As her body sank into the warmth of the clean water she sighed heavily. She leaned her head back and immersed her long hair and then scooted down into the water up to her neck. She didn’t allow herself to think of anything while she soaked up the warmth of the water. There would time later to plan her next move. “Move,” she whispered into the room. Once again she had to find a temporary place to settle down. “No, don’t think.” She instructed herself. All she wanted to do was enjoy clean hot water. Her eyes began to drift shut. Swirling colors of red, blue and yellow swam around in her eyes. As the colors faded she saw a black panther standing on hill in front of her. His sleek black coat shimmered in the sunlight. His hair spiked on the top of his large head. Markey thought how odd it was that such a majestic animal would have a spike. In the blink of an eye the cat leapt from the hill and landed several feet in front of her. She waved her arms in the air and formed a barrier between them. The cat turned away from her and began pacing. Markey watched with curiosity as he sniffed the ground. To her surprise the cat lifted his head and released a loud growl and then proceeded to walk right through the invisible wall. Markey took two steps back just before the cat sprang into the air. Markey floundered in the tub. Her arms splashed at the water before she realized it was all a dream. She had drifted off to sleep in the tub. How dangerous was that? With her luck she could have drowned. While she let her heartbeat settle she noticed something in the air. Markey sniffed and smiled. “Food.” Trip was cooking. In response her stomach growled and rumbled reminding her how long it had been since she had eaten something solid. The shampoo bottle was sitting on the floor next to the tub, so she grabbed it and squeezed some in her hands. Soaking had loosened most of the matted hair, allowing her to scrub her scalp. Since she didn’t have a cup or anything to rinse it clean, she dipped her head into the water. Her long hair fanned out and floated on the surface. Her arms were weak and tired from lathering so she just bobbed her head up and down 100
Force of Nature
letting the motion rinse the soap away. Next she grabbed a bar of soap with trembling hands and carefully washed her body. Her ripped flesh stung as the soapy water sloshed into open sores. She did a quick survey of her wounds and decided some peroxide and a little antibiotic ointment would take care of them. Markey dragged herself to her knees and rested her arms on the side of the porcelain. She gave a push up only to slide back down into the water. “Come on, you can do this.” She gave another push and managed to get halfway up before her legs gave. Water splashed out of the tub and onto the floor as she crashed down. No matter how hard she tried she couldn’t gather enough strength to lift herself out. That meant she needed Trip to lift her out. That thought brought panic and excitement rushing forward at the same time. With her brain malfunctioning she didn’t think she could handle him touching her naked body. “You can do this on your own. You don’t need him.” This time she positioned herself at the end of the tub and managed to lift her butt to the rim. “See you just need to think it through that’s all.” Pleased with herself she took her hands and lifted her legs over the side and looked around. “Now what?” She still couldn’t stand. Her blisters were burning from her skin being tugged and pulled. Her skin was beginning to cool as she sat on the side of the tub. “I don’t have much choice do I?” Markey grabbed the towel from the side of the tub and wrapped it around her body. “Trip I need some help.” Before the words were completely out of her mouth the door swung open. Was he standing out there the whole time, she asked herself? As if he already knew what the problem was he crossed to her and lifted her in his arms. “Sorry about the water on the floor. I had a little trouble.” God it felt good to be in his arms. Stop, she scolded herself, you can’t trust him, not really. “I would have helped,” he grunted carrying her out the door. “I was naked.” Trip glanced down into her face. “I’ve seen you naked before Markey.” Markey blushed and looked away. “That was before.” She didn’t need to be reminded. Trip carried her into a small bedroom down the hall and set her on the bed. Markey glanced around the room in awe. It was simple but tastefully decorated. The walls were paneled in pine, darkened to a warm honey shade from time. Lacy hunter green curtains hung at the one window in the room. A beautiful dresser that looked to be hand made from oak filled the wall next to the door. Markey turned her attention back to the bed and gaped at the black wrought iron that was twisted and bent into the shape of a grapevine. She reached out and ran her fingers over the iron, following every curve. “You don’t have any clothes,” Trip said quietly as he watched her trace the pattern on the headboard.
101
Robin Leigh Miller
Markey slumped. “No I don’t. Everything I own is in my car.” Markey sighed, she didn’t want to think about having to go back there to get it. “I’ve got some sweatshirts you can wear and I might have a pair of sweat pants we could cinch up for you.” “I guess I don’t have any choice do I?” She didn’t mean for it to sound nasty but it flew out that way. Deep lines creased his face as he scowled. “I’m sorry Trip I didn’t mean it like that. I’m just so tired and hungry.” The lines in his face deepened the more she spoke. It was obvious he was punishing himself for what happened to her. He didn’t need her pushing the knife in deeper, not yet anyway. “I’ll get you something to put on and then you can eat.” He backed out the door watching her before he turned and disappeared into the hallway. It was odd how that look reminded her of something, but she shook it off and ran her hand across the silky comforter on the bed. She would sleep like a baby in this room. It felt so warm and cozy. The heat from the fire wafted down the hallway and seeped into the room. Trip returned holding a black sweatshirt and a matching pair of sweatpants. He laid them down next to her on the bed and gave her that sad, yet knowing look. “Just yell when you’re ready.” Again Markey watched him leave. She just couldn’t shake the feeling his look gave her. She’d seen that kind of look before but where? “It’s just your imagination.” She muttered and then pulled on the sweatshirt. The soft material slid over her skin like a warm hug. A spicy scent filled her nostrils as it slipped over her face. Markey buried her nose in the material and inhaled deeply. When she realized what she was doing she grunted, rolled her eyes and snatched up the pants. Now that she was finished dressing she decided to give standing one last try. Taking a deep breath she braced her arms on the side of the bed and shoved herself upright. To her surprise she was standing on her own. Before she could enjoy the accomplishment she fell forward and flat on her face. Trip’s heavy footsteps hammered down the hall. “What the hell are you doing?” he asked picking her up off the floor. “I thought I’d get a closer look at the floor,” she said shoving her hair from her face. “What’s it look like, I was trying to be a big girl and walk all by myself,” she sneered. “Is it that hard to ask me for help?” There was touch of hurt mixed with anger in his voice. “What do you think?” she snapped back as he set her down in a chair at the table. Trip didn’t respond, instead he turned his back and walked toward the kitchen counter. When he returned to the table he was holding two plates of spaghetti. Markey’s mouth watered. The sauce was thick with meat and smelled like heaven. Trip
102
Force of Nature
placed both plates on the table and then retrieved a plate of fresh bread from the kitchen. Markey looked at him with surprise. “What?” he asked when he saw her mouth hanging open. “You cook?” “Yeah, I cook. So what?” “How long was I in the tub?” Surely he didn’t have time to cook all this. “About twenty-five minutes. I made the sauce yesterday so all I had to do was warm it up. It doesn’t take long to cook noodles. The bread I bought at a bakery in town. And you were asleep in the tub for about twenty of those twenty-five minutes.” “How do you know?” Markey narrowed her eyes at him. “Cause I peeked in.” A small smile tugged at the corner of his lips as he put his first forkful of food in his mouth. Markey didn’t have a comeback. She was too distracted by the aroma of hot food in front of her. She wanted to dive in and shovel every bit of hot food into her mouth. The only problem was she wasn’t sure how her stomach would react. She reached down and picked up the fork and pushed the noodles around on her plate before grabbing a small amount and lifting it to her mouth. Markey hesitated before closing her eyes and taking the first bite. The tangy sauce burst to life on her tongue. She moaned and began chewing and the swallowed carefully. She waited patiently for it to slide down into her stomach and braced herself for the spasm she was sure would come. The withered muscle contracted briefly and then released. “When was the last time you had solid food?” Trip’s voice was low and quiet. “I’m not sure. He fed me soup once, but most of the time I was hooked up to a tube. Since I was mostly drugged, I have no idea when one day ended and the next began.” Markey took another small bite and smiled when her stomach didn’t cramp. “Maybe you should consider taking it slowly. I probably should have made something lighter for you.” “No,” she countered quickly. “This is perfect.” Markey had eaten half her plate when she became unbearably tired. She set her fork down and rested her head on her hand. “That was very good, thank you.” Trip slapped his hand on the table startling her. “Stop thanking me.” Tears welled in her eyes. The angry fire burst to life inside her, smoldering, waiting for the final bit of kindling to be added. The tears were a mixture of exhaustion, disappointment and his macho outburst, which scared her. “I think I’ll go to bed now,” she whispered trying to keep her anger from growing. They had both experienced a rough night and now wasn’t the time to get into an argument.
103
Robin Leigh Miller
“I’m sorry,” Trip said reaching out his hand for hers. Markey snatched hers back and placed it in her lap. “I’m very tired. As soon as I get my strength back I’ll be on my way. You won’t have to deal with me anymore.” “What?” The surprise in his voice shocked him. “I mean, you can stay as long as you like,” he said in a calm voice. “It’s best if I keep moving. Thorton will probably look for me and now you’re on his shit list too.” She looked him square in the eye. “He’s a very dangerous man. Something you would have known if you had bothered to check.” Markey felt the fire flare to life. She needed to get out of this room and away from him to release the energy building inside her. She turned on the chair and stood without any trouble and started back to the bedroom. Trip watched in disbelief until she was out of sight. A small chuckle turned into a full hearty laugh. He wondered if she even realized her feet never once touched the floor.
***** Markey lay in bed and listened to the sound of Trip cleaning up the kitchen. She had heard him laughing and didn’t realize why until she entered the bedroom. When she figured out she’d walked back to the bedroom by herself, she looked down at her feet and gasped. They weren’t touching the floor. She had manipulated the air under her and floated all the way down the hall. In some sort of twisted perverted way Thorton had helped her deal with her ability. He wasn’t aware of it she was sure, but because of him she forced herself to deal with it instead of hide from it. Mentally she checked off the small list of things she learned. She learned she needed to gradually release the energy building inside so it wouldn’t tear her insides apart. The force of the energy she released could be controlled as well, although she needed to work on that. And it seemed she could direct the energy anywhere since she floated down the hall. Markey yawned and stretched her sore tired muscles. If she wasn’t so exhausted she might try to do it again. Her vision became wavy and distorted, her brain so fatigued her eyes seemed to be shutting down. “Tomorrow’s another day.” She yawned again and then rolled onto her side and plunged into sleep.
***** Trip finished cleaning up the kitchen and glanced at the clock on the wall. It was well past midnight and he wondered if Thorton would be skulking around his facility,
104
Force of Nature
ranting about Markey’s escape. He desperately wanted to get back inside that building and grab some of those files he’d found and do a little research. There was no doubt Jesse would tell him that Trip was involved in the escape, so just showing up would be out of the question. He’d have to sneak back in like he did earlier this evening. Maybe waiting a few hours would be better than high-tailing it back there right now. Thorton probably wouldn’t expect that, figuring they were both long gone by now. Sore and tired, Trip decided a few hours of sleep were needed before he headed out. His ribs were throbbing from where that little bastard had kicked him. He pulled his shirt up and saw deep purple bruises forming. “Small price to pay,” he muttered dropping his shirt back down. Markey had been starved, electrocuted and God knew what else and still she seemed to have her same feisty attitude. He only hoped she still had a little bit of faith left in him. He rubbed his eyes and walked back to his bedroom across from hers. When he reached her door he stopped and pressed his ear against it. Silence. He carefully turned the knob and pushed the door open. His heart stumbled in his chest. She lay on top of the bed, her long hair fanned across the pillow. She looked small yet comfortable in his sweats and her bare toes were curled from the cool air in the room. He noticed the nail polish she’d worn when they first met was peeled and spotty. Guilt punched him in the stomach nearly doubling him over. She was so perfect and he handed her over to a psycho like she was nothing more than a purchased relic. Why hadn’t he checked into this guy before he drove her all the way to his torture chamber? Trip eased over to the bed and sat down next to her. Color was beginning to creep back into her cheeks. Her freckles that dotted her nose were still pronounced, but he found that sexy. Who was he kidding? He found everything about her sexy. Unable to resist, he ran his hand through her damp hair. It still felt like silk against his skin. “I’m sorry Markey.” When she didn’t move he brought his hand to her face and brushed his fingers down her cheek. “I’m a damn fool. I should be shot for what I did.” His mind flashed back to the night in hotel room. He’d give away everything he owned to have that night back. She would never know what it cost him to walk away from her that night. “I’ll never let anyone hurt you again.” He leaned forward and brushed his lips across her cheek then rose from the bed and pulled a thick quilt over her and let her rest. Trip flopped down in his king size bed and felt small and alone. If he had used his head she would be sharing this bed with him instead hating him for his betrayal. That’s all it boiled down to, betrayal. He took advantage of her vulnerable, lonely state and made her think he was her friend, all for a lousy paycheck. He fisted his hands and vowed that Thorton would never get the chance to hurt anyone ever again.
105
Robin Leigh Miller
With a huge heavy yawn Trip closed his eyes and allowed his body to relax. He set his internal clock for two hours and drifted off to sleep. A blood-curdling scream jerked Trip from his sleep. He sat straight up in bed waiting for his brain to catch up with his body. When everything fell into order he realized it was Markey. Hundreds of thoughts poured through his mind as he scrambled off the bed and headed for her room. Had Thorton found them? Was he attempting to take her back? When he reached her room he flicked on the light switch and found her sitting up in bed, staring at the wall in front of her. “Markey what is it?” He jumped on the bed next to her and gathered her in his arms. She screamed again and pushed at him, lifting her arms into the air. “Oh shit.” The air in the room began to spin to life. The curtains on the windows billowed and flapped in the wind. “Markey stop.” He heard her mumble something and then gave a flick of her wrists. A funnel of air formed at the end of the bed. Trip could feel the suction tugging at him. “Markey wake up!” He shook her several times to no avail. His ponytail snaked around his neck and pointed in the direction of the funnel. The furniture in the room rattled and wobbled against the wall. Suddenly Trip tumbled off the bed and lifted in the air. “Damn it Markey wake up!” He saw awareness drift into her eyes. When she saw him hanging in the air and the wind funnel grabbing at him she gasped. Immediately the air began to still. Trip crashed to the floor with a loud thud. “Are you all right?” she asked leaning over the edge of the bed and peering down at him. Trip rolled onto his back and met her eyes. “Yeah. What the hell was that all about?” She rested her chin on the edge of the bed and stared into space. “I was dreaming.” “Tell me about the dream,” he asked gently. “He was getting ready to cut my head open while Jesse…” Trip crawled from the floor and sat down next to her, rolling her onto her back. “Don’t, it’s over.” “Is this what I have to look forward to now? Endless nightmares about them and what they did to me?” She placed the palms of her hands over her face. “I’m sorry Trip. I could have hurt you.” “No damage done.” He pulled her hands away from her face and locked his eyes on hers. “Markey you and I have to talk.” She rolled onto her side away from him. “Not now Trip, I’m tired.” She didn’t want to hear what he had to say, not now. Trip bit his lip and decided not to push it. “Are you going to crash?” he asked. 106
Force of Nature
“I don’t think so.” She laughed a small halfhearted laugh. “What’s so funny?” She heard the alarm in his voice. “The asshole ended up helping me without realizing it.” “Helped you? What the hell do you mean helped you?” She chuckled. He must think she was out her mind. “He found my seizures fascinating. To keep from entertaining him I was forced to face my ability and deal with it. Any chance I got I practiced and learned how to semi-control it.” She felt his large hand run the length of her back. A different kind of fire sparked to life inside her body, one that yearned to be fed and stoked by his hands. She shivered and berated herself for feeling such things for the man who handed her over to her torturer. She had every right in the world to hate him, every reason, but for some unfathomable reason she couldn’t. As far as she was concerned that meant she had a real mental problem. Trip lay down next to her and wrapped his arm around her stomach, pulling her against him. She held her breath demanding her body to not respond to his touch or warmth. She stiffened hoping he would read her body language and move away. All the demands she insisted on from her body went unanswered. Blood coursed hot and thick through her veins. Her breathing became as thick and heavy as her blood. She felt his hot breath rush across her ear sending little lightning bolts crackling over the surface of her skin. Her heartbeat quickened until she thought the muscle would would burst from her chest. “I only want to hold you sweetheart, until you fall back to sleep.” Markey suppressed a moan. His deep, rich husky voice added to her heat. “Will you let me hold you?” No! her brain screamed like a two-year-old throwing a temper tantrum. Her body purred yes like a hot wanton woman. Her body won the battle. Before she knew it she was nodding her head yes. “Okay. Just relax Markey. Nothing is going to happen to you. I won’t let anyone hurt you ever again.” Trip nuzzled his face in her hair and squeezed his arm around her stomach. A small bomb exploded in her head, shattering every bit of reason and sensibility that remained. Her body went limp against his, melting into a liquid pool of fire. God help her she wanted him with every fiber in her body. She wanted him to touch her entire body with his hands, his mouth. She wanted to make love to him until she lay exhausted and sweaty. She just simply wanted him. Markey battled with the two-year-old still stomping around in her brain and the woman within that desired the man lying next to her. The two-year-old finally ran out of temper and quietly slunk back in its corner, leaving the woman to take what she wanted.
107
Robin Leigh Miller
She took a deep unsteady breath and rolled toward Trip. She might regret this in the morning but right now she didn’t give a damn. Once in a while you had throw reason out the window and take a leap of faith. What was wrong with having a man make you feel alive when you’ve come face to face with death? She scooted and twisted, careful not to put extra pressure on her blisters. She kept her eyes closed until she felt his warm breath grazing her skin, letting her anticipation build. When she opened her eyes she hoped he could see the desire she held deep inside. But Trip couldn’t see anything. He was sleeping. Markey stared at his handsome face in bewilderment. How dare he? Here she was ready to surrender herself to him and he had the nerve to fall asleep. Didn’t he want her? What was with him holding her if he didn’t want her? The little two-year old crawled out of its corner and whined. Pity. That’s what it was, it had to be, maybe not so much pity but guilt for what she’d been through. He didn’t want her, she misread his actions. Markey blew out a small breath. Thank God she whispered inside her head. If he’d been awake she would have made a complete fool out of herself. She lay there and watched him sleep. If she couldn’t have him, then at least she had this. Even if it was just for one night she could sleep peacefully next to him and be thankful for that. With a resigned breath she closed her eyes and drifted off next to the man who was more a torturer to her than Thorton could ever be.
108
Force of Nature
Chapter Twelve The soft sound of rain patting on the roof gently woke Markey from the first restful sleep she’d had in months. She stretched her legs and arms and then paused. A thick warm blanket was covering her and the bed. She looked around and remembered falling asleep with Trip next to her. But he was gone now. She rubbed her eyes and remembered the close call she almost had. He must have awakened during the night and covered her and then returned to his own room. Markey glanced out the window and saw a gray sky through leafless trees. It was funny how rainy days depressed some people but were comforting to her. She felt as though nature had attuned itself to her somehow and mirrored her somber view of life. She allowed herself the pleasure of watching the rain softly kiss the window and listening to its song on the roof. Time ticked by uninterrupted until Markey noticed she didn’t hear any movement in the cabin. She wondered about the time, was it early morning, midmorning or nearing noon? She stretched once more and then pulled herself up in bed and swung her legs over the side. Very carefully she lifted her body from the bed and steadied herself. There was enough strength in her legs this morning to hold her up at least, but could she walk? Markey took on tentative step. She was wobbly but able to hold her own weight. She took another step and then another. A cold shiver ran through her body. She wrapped her arms around herself and walked out into the hallway. The whole cabin was cold. The door to Trip’s room was closed so she crept down the hall careful not to wake him. The first thing she did was head for the fireplace. There were enough hot coals left to start another fire, so she knelt down and busied herself. It wasn’t long before she had a nice warm fire blazing. Markey stood and brushed her hands on the sweat pants and looked for a clock. The one in the kitchen said eleventhirty. Markey’s stomach growled as if it could read the time. She pressed her hand to her stomach and made her way to the refrigerator. When she opened it she saw her plate from last night covered with plastic wrap. Markey’s mouth started watering. She removed the plate and stuck it in the microwave. To keep from waking Trip she opened the door just as the timer ticked down to one. The smell of tangy meat sauce filled her nostrils. Markey carried the plate to the table and dug in. The first bite scalded her tongue. “Damn it.” She was so hungry she neglected to test how hot it was before she shoved it in her mouth. After a few seconds of burning pain and a few quick blows to cool down the food she dug in. 109
Robin Leigh Miller
In no time at all she had devoured the rest of last night’s meal. She could eat more but decided to allow her tender stomach to gradually become accustomed to being fed once again. She carried the plate and fork to the sink and washed them, letting them dry on the counter. When she turned back to the living room she noticed a stack of boxes shoved in the corner. Markey scowled at the boxes. They looked familiar. She shuffled over to them and knelt down beside them. They were hers. These were her boxes, the ones she packed in her car when they left Roanoke. “He got my stuff back.” She quickly tore into them and pulled a sweater and a pair of jeans from the top box. Glancing down the hallway to make sure his bedroom door was still closed she began removing her borrowed clothes. It felt good to have her jeans on again. Unfortunately they bagged where once they were snug. Markey kicked one of the boxes while she slipped on her jeans and saw a duffel bag hidden behind them. It wasn’t hers so it must be Trip’s she surmised. Curious, she slid the zipper back and pushed the sides apart. Inside were a few notebooks and a pile of manila folders. Should she look at them? Markey bit down on her lip as she stared into the duffle bag and argued with herself over privacy issues. The hell with privacy, she decided and tugged the bag over to the couch. She removed a notebook and opened it to the first page. It took a few moments for her to understand what it was she was looking at. Pages of notes on experiments filled the notebook. “He stole Thorton’s notebooks.” She flipped through it and came to a page with a drawing of a brain. Next to it was hand written notes explaining how he would dissect the brain. Icy fingers wrapped themselves around Markey’s flesh. Was this what he had planned for her? She read further and gasped when she came to a section that told of how the patient would react to having his brain taken apart piece by piece while he was still alive. Tears of horror and anger swelled Markey’s eyes. She flipped the page and read on. To her unbelievable horror Thorton had methodically written every detail of the procedure, down to how many times the victim screamed and how long it took for him to take his last breath. Markey slammed the book and threw it on the floor. She could feel her anger ignite inside her gut and released a long steady breath to help defuse the energy building up inside. The air stirred to life in the room. The flames of the fire danced around wildly. When she felt the pressure subside she stopped. “Why would he take these things?” Trip couldn’t possibly be interested in what this man was doing, could he? Determined to go on, she pulled the pile of folders from the duffle, opening the top one. A picture of a young man was paper-clipped to a few sheets of paper. The name Kevin Folmer was in bold print at the top of the paper. He was twenty years old, five foot eight inches tall and weighed one hundred seventy five pounds. Kevin was born in
110
Force of Nature
Tennessee and given up for adoption at the age of four. Next to his vital statistics was Thorton’s handwriting noting that Kevin had shown signs of exceptional strength at an early age. The boy was able to lift six times his weight by the time he was two years old. In red pen Thorton had scribbled something that looked like a personal note to himself. Markey couldn’t make it all out but it looked like some kind of pharmaceutical name for a drug. Markey figured he needed something strong to subdue a boy who could probably crush him with one hand. The next sheet of paper was a letter from Thorton to Kevin stating how he could help the boy with his affliction. Affliction, Markey snorted, is that what he considered it when people had abnormal abilities? She read further understanding how this young man would have jumped at the chance to have someone that proclaimed they were an expert in the field, help him. Markey closed that file and opened another. File after file held pictures of unhappy faces along with their vital statistics. A letter accompanied each picture along with an arrival date. “So many people,” she muttered to herself. From what she could tell none of them had anyone to notice if they went missing. She opened the last folder and saw a picture of a young girl. The sadness in her eyes touched Markey. She knew that look—it was a look she saw every time she saw herself in the mirror. Lonely, hopeless and scared all jumbled together. This poor soul was only seventeen years old. Her hair was straight, hanging to her shoulders. The color reminded Markey of a murky puddle, brown but not quite brown enough. Her eyes were a dull, lifeless blue. Kimberly, the name read at the top of the page. Kimberly Hesston’s supposed affliction was the ability to heal others with just a touch. Markey choked on a sob. This plain little girl was the answer to people’s prayers and Thorton stole her. Grief swamped Markey. She let her head drop back and closed her eyes. Kimberly’s face floated in and out of her mind, lulling her into an exhausted sleep. Trip found her on the couch with files all around her. Damp streaks on her face shimmered in the glow of the fire. In her lap was the folder of a young girl, probably the young girl who belonged to the suitcase he found in that dark room. Trip bit off a curse. From the looks of it Markey had read every damn file he hauled out of that place. Would she think he was trying to hide something? Did she think he was responsible for bringing these people to Thorton? Damn it, he wanted to show them to her and explain that he had nothing to do with it. In her state of mind she could be thinking anything. Trip paced back and forth behind the couch. His insides were churning with so many emotions he couldn’t sort them out. His own conscience was tearing at him, but damned if it wasn’t worse thinking she hated him for what he’d done. His hands pushed through his long hair, tangling it around his thick fingers. He pulled and cursed to free them. “I hate this long hair,” he grunted as it tugged his scalp.
111
Robin Leigh Miller
For lack of a better way to handle his frustration, he huffed back to the bathroom and pulled out a pair of shears. Avoiding his own eyes in the mirror, he began hacking away at his long blond hair. Chunks drifted to the floor and began pilling up like blond snow. When he was finished he turned on the faucet and stuck his head under the cold water. The chill of the water did nothing to soothe the raging temper boiling and bubbling under the surface. Trip flipped his head back tossing water all over the bathroom. He ruffled his hair with his hands and gave himself a quick glance. A short disgusted sound emitted from his throat. Hating the man he saw looking back at him he turned away and leaned against the sink. “Great,” he growled. “You’ve hacked your hair off and you still feel like a fucking piece of shit.” Angry, disgusted and needing to punish himself in some way, he went to his room and grabbed a sweatshirt and stormed through the cabin. Before he opened the door he paused and glanced back at Markey. Her ass-long hair draped over her shoulder and flowed down over her breast. Her plump pink lips were parted slightly, as if they were asking, no pleading to be kissed. Trip wanted to oblige, hell he wanted to do more than oblige. Knowing that if he woke her with a kiss she would probably send him into the next county with a flick of her wrist, he trudged out into the rain. Markey heard the door slam shut and jolted. Her first reaction was to go on the defensive, but then she realized she was still in Trip’s cabin. So it must be Trip who slammed the door. “Stupid.” He caught her snooping and was probably pissed as hell. She gathered all the files and stacked them neatly on the coffee table. As she finished up she heard a distant thud. She sat listening, thud, thud, thud. “What is he doing?” Markey stood and walked to the kitchen window. Outside in the pouring rain, without a coat, Trip was splitting wood. She watched as he brought the ax over his head and let it fall. Each time it was with more force. Rain dripped from his angry face. At one point he used so much energy that he buried the ax into the stump that he was using to rest the logs on. What was he so angry about, she wondered? Was it because she was snooping? No, Trip wasn’t that kind of guy. If he didn’t want her to find these things he would have hidden them better, it had to be something else. His words echoed in her head. “I’ll never let anyone hurt you again.” That was it, he was angry because of the whole Thorton situation. He was feeling guilty about taking her there. He probably thought she hated him when it was all she could do to keep her hands off him. But wait, didn’t she already decide that was because her brain wasn’t functioning? Yeah right and she’d be elected president tomorrow. Who was she kidding? She had it bad for the man, no matter how much her brain told her she should run as far away from him as possible, her body and soul knew better.
112
Force of Nature
“I’m tired of being alone,” she whispered to herself. But then there was last night. He had every opportunity to have her and he didn’t take it. Maybe he didn’t want her? “The only way to find out is ask.” It was time to quite being afraid and take a chance. Markey pulled a pair of shoes from the box in the corner of the room and slipped them on. She walked out into the cold rain and headed around the side of the cabin. Trip brought the ax over his head with a grunt and dropped it on the piece of wood with a loud throaty growl. “Trip?” Markey stood a few feet away from him. When his eyes met hers she could see the turmoil in them. Her heart did a slow flip in her chest. God, please let him want me, she prayed silently. “You should go inside, you’re getting soaked.” His eyes averted hers as he raised the ax again. Markey closed her eyes and lifted her hands chest high, with a small rotation of her wrist the rain ceased around them. Trip let the ax fall and paused, looking around at the rain that was falling several feet away from them. “You did that?” he asked without looking at her. “Getting pretty good huh?” “Go inside Markey. You don’t want to be around me.” “Why are you punishing yourself?” It had occurred to her that that was exactly what he was doing. Trip halted his motion briefly then continued letting the ax fall. When the split log rolled off to the side he bent over and picked up another. “I don’t know what you’re talking about.” Markey took a step forward. “Oh? Seems to me that’s what you’re doing, or are you angry with me for looking at those files?” Trip rested the ax on the stump and leaned his forehead on the end of the handle. “You think I’m mad because you were reading those file? That’s good.” Markey took another step forward. “Is that what it is?” When he didn’t answer she pushed further. “Do you want me to leave? Do you want me gone from here?” Trip just glanced at her and then looked away. “Tell me what you want Trip, I can’t read minds like Marcus Shultz.” The name sliced through Trip’s gut. He tossed the ax aside with yet another angry growl. Markey didn’t flinch, she knew he wouldn’t hurt her, she felt it all the way to her bones. “Don’t throw those names at me. I didn’t know those people. I never met them!” Markey stared at him confused. “I didn’t bring them to Thorton Markey.” He turned away from her and ran his hands through his hair.
113
Robin Leigh Miller
“Is that what this is all about? You think I blame you for those people?” Markey stepped toward him and placed her hand on his soaked sweatshirt. “Let me tell you something Trip. I’m not as dense as you think I am. I know you didn’t have anything to do with those people. And furthermore, I know you didn’t have any idea what he had planned for me.” It didn’t hit her until that very moment, but she truly believed he didn’t know. “If you knew you wouldn’t have cared enough to get me out of there.” She felt his body tense under her hand. Trip pulled away from her and marched across the yard and into the cabin. Markey gathered together all the courage she had and followed him. This was it. She would find out right now how he felt. Markey stormed through the door and slammed it shut. “Okay, I know the only reason you came back for me was because you felt sorry for me, or maybe your conscience was getting to you…” Trip turned with fury in his eyes. He took two steps and closed the gap between them. “I don’t feel sorry for you.” He fisted his hands as his side to keep from reaching out for her. “You are the strongest woman I’ve ever met in my life and believe me when I tell you I have met a lot of women.” Markey turned her face away. She didn’t want to hear about his other women. “No,” he said taking her chin in his hand and turning her to face him. “You hear this. I have spent years traveling all over the country and not once, never did I run into a woman who made me feel like a mass of raging hormones whenever I was near her.” Markey looked into his eyes and waited. “Jesus Markey,” his voice lowered and became gentle, “you don’t have any idea what you do to me do you?” Markey shook her head, her chin still held in his hand. When she felt his thumb brush her lips her knees went weak. “That night in the hotel…” She tried to turn away again, but he held her firm. Heat spread through her face as she recalled how humiliated she felt that night. “I wanted nothing more than to bury myself deep inside you, hold you in my arms all night. But I couldn’t. I was taking you to Thorton under somewhat false pretenses. You thought he was my friend and I let you believe that, when in reality I was being paid to find you and convince you to go to him.” “I figured once you were there and I was on my way I would forget about you.” Trip chuckled and dropped his hand from her chin. “What a dope I was. Instead of forgetting, I found myself daydreaming about you, waking up rock-hard because I could still taste you on my lips. You were the last thing I thought about at night and the first thing in the morning.” Trip turned and walked toward the kitchen. “I even searched for a place like yours hoping you would maybe consider staying with me while Thorton worked with you. Presumptuous I know.”
114
Force of Nature
“After about four days I started driving by the end of his driveway. Finally I drove up and saw your car so I figured I’d stop in and see how you were doing. When I saw the coffee still in your car I knew something wasn’t right. So I rang the doorbell and Mr. High and Mighty answered. I didn’t like the way he was acting, something seemed off. I told him you were expected at your aunt’s house and that I would be by to pick you up in two days. The son of a bitch turned pure white. He said you told him about it and I knew I had him.” Trip began pacing back and forth. “I went out and bought a bunch of gear to watch the place and parked my ass in the woods that night, waiting for them to leave. When they left and I didn’t see you, but your car was still there fear ate at my guts.” Trip lowered his head. Tears tightened his throat, straining his voice. “When I saw you in that fucking room in nothing but your bra and panties, shackled like some kind of damn animal…” Markey walked toward him. She reached out and put her palms on each side of his face and tilted his head so she could see his eyes. They were red and damp, puffy from the exertion of trying to keep the tears from flowing. “You saved me,” she said tenderly. Trip pulled away and took a step back. “I took you there!” he bellowed. “If I had at least checked the guy out none of this would ever have happened.” “And we would never have met,” Markey retorted. Trip was stunned. No matter what she managed to find a ray of sunshine a hurricane. “What?” Markey gave him a gentle smile. “I would never have met you if you hadn’t come to find me.” “You can forgive me that easily? After everything you’ve been through, all that torture, you can just forgive me?” “Yeah.” When she saw the disbelief on his face she continued. “Let me ask you something? That day at the bank, when you reached out to help me, you could have just waited for it to all be over and then approached me right?” Trip nodded his head. “But you didn’t. You helped me work through it, kept me from destroying the building. And then you took me home and watched over me.” “Trip no one has ever done that before. Everyone I’ve ever met runs away from me when they see what I can do. There were so many different ways to handle that situation, but you chose to stay with me. Now my guess is that has something to do with the man, not the job.” The floor fell out from under him. He felt himself freefalling through the air. “I don’t deserve you.” Markey laughed, her whole face lighting up with her smile. “Don’t put me on a pedestal. I still have my goofy little quirks.” Markey let her smile fade and looked at
115
Robin Leigh Miller
him with such complete seriousness it startled him. “I have to know Trip. I’m confused so a simple yes or no answer is what I need. Do you want me or not?” Trip decided on a better way to answer her question. He stepped toward her and took her in his arms. He held her gaze as he lowered his mouth to hers and covered her lips with his. Markey shivered under the soft, moist kiss. When he slid his tongue between her teeth she lost her breath. Trip dipped his tongue deep inside and swept her mouth. She tasted like the meat sauce on last night’s spaghetti. He wanted to take it slowly but his body was demanding to have her. His cock grew thick and hard under his rain-soaked jeans. Fire burned through his veins heating him from the inside out. Markey felt his thick, hard mass press into her. Her own fire ran hot and wild from her toes to the top of her head. His lips were so soft and warm, such a contrast from what she was feeling pressed into her tummy. Her mind scrambled trying to keep up with all the sensual feelings he was giving her. His gentle kiss became forceful and demanding. His lips moved over hers with urgency as he nipped at her lips and then darted his tongue into her mouth once again. Markey moved her hands to his chest and felt his heart racing. She could feel his body heat radiating through his wet sweat shirt. Her hands itched to touch his warm skin. She fumbled with the bottom of his shirt and slid her hands underneath. Trip’s muscles quivered as she slid her palms up his sides and around his rib cage. Jerking away from her mouth he panted and looked into her eyes. “I want you sweetheart. I want you more than I want to breathe.” Trip grabbed the bottom of her sweater and tugged it over her head tossing it behind him. He groaned, rolled his eyes and swept her up in his arms. Markey yipped with surprise as he bounced her against his chest. She wrapped her arms around him and began nuzzling his neck. He smelled so male. His body musk fanned the lust clawing away at her insides, begging to be released. Trip carried her to the living room and lowered her to the side of the couch. He knelt between her legs, reaching out at the same time and grasping her breasts in his hands. Markey let her head fall back, enjoying the gentle kneading of her flesh. Her skin tingled and burned all at the same time under his hands. When he pinched her hard nipples between his thumb and forefinger she felt lightning reverberate through her body. Soon his hands were replaced with his hot moist mouth. Markey felt her breath lodge in her lungs when he began suckling. She placed her hands on the back of his head and held him close wanting more. God she wanted more. She wanted his mouth all over her body, taking her up until she couldn’t think any longer. Trip pulled away from her breast. Markey groaned in protest but was hushed when he reached down and unfastened her jeans. His breathing was heavy as he lowered the zipper and then tugged her jeans over her hips. Markey felt her bottom slide toward the
116
Force of Nature
edge of the couch as he urged the denim lower. When they finally slid past her ass cheeks he stood and pulled them off. The way he looked at her banished any embarrassment she may have felt about being completely naked. His eyes darkened and sparkled in the glow of the fire. For the first time ever she felt like a wanted woman, a sexy woman. “This isn’t fair. You still have all your clothes on.” She didn’t recognize the low sexy voice that came out of her mouth. Trip pulled his wet sweatshirt over his head and let it drop to the floor. When his hands dropped to his jeans Markey reached out and placed her hand over his, halting his movement. “Let me.” A surprised, pleased look flashed through his eyes. He moved his hands away and watched as she lowered herself to her knees in front of him. Markey quickly flicked the button free and then lowered his zipper with ease. The massive bulge in his boxer shorts amazed her. She suddenly felt inadequate, but decided to just let nature take its course. When his jeans were down around his ankles he kicked his feet free and held his breath. Markey slid her fingers into his waistband and worked the gray material down over his hips. As she lowered them his large, long powerful erection sprang free. Markey hesitated briefly in awe of his magnificent form. She let her eyes wander over him to the tip of his bulbous head and then back again. His cock twitched under her hot breath making him groan. Markey finished lowering his shorts and waited until he was free from the last bit of material that stood between them. The need to touch was strong. She had never seen a man naked much less in this state of arousal, so she wrapped her hand around his steel cock and slid it down his length. Her other hand cupped his balls and gave a gentle squeeze. Trip reacted with a moan that sent shivers down her spine. Markey licked her lips as she stared at his rock-hard flesh. She wanted, oh how she wanted to taste him like he had tasted her. She leaned forward and placed a tender kiss on the very end. A small dot of moisture wet her lips so she licked away the salty fluid. It only served to whet her appetite further. “I’ve never done this before Trip. I’ve never been with a man in any intimate way at all. If I do something wrong, please, don’t be angry.” Her eyes never left his cock. She was so amazed at its beauty she couldn’t look away. Trip reached down and lifted her chin, forcing her to look at him. “You humble me sweetheart.” When she looked at him confused he continued. “You’re giving me a special gift, one that I will never be able to match.” The back of his fingers brushed her flushed cheek. “Just do what feels comfortable to you, I won’t be angry, I promise.” Markey gave him a devilish look before she focused her attention back on his cock. He was right, do what feels comfortable. So she leaned forward, opened her mouth and slid him inside. Before she realized it she was addicted to his taste and feel. Her mouth
117
Robin Leigh Miller
worked back and forth as her tongue slid up and down over his shaft. She reached around and grabbed a handful of his firm ass, helping her get into a better position. Trip growled her name and pushed her back away from him. She looked up into his face worried that she’d done something wrong. “You’re killing me,” he panted. “Did I do something wrong?” “Oh babe,” he said kneeling in front of her, “you’ve done everything right.” He lifted her at the hips and placed her back on the edge of the couch. “My turn.” He said pushing her knees apart. Markey cried out when his mouth planted firmly over her. His tongue swirled around her clit, teasing it into a frenzy. She could feel her body tighten instantly. His tongue darted inside her opening and then out again, back to her clit to swirl around it. Trip sucked, teased and delved his tongue in and out until she felt like a rubber band stretched beyond its limit and ready to snap. To her dismay he pulled away. “Why did you stop?” Oh dear God her body was screaming for release. Her leg muscles quivered around his head. She felt her hands fist into the cushion of the couch. “I wanted to make sure you were ready for me. The first time can be painful if your body isn’t prepared.” He slipped two fingers down between her folds giving her a pleasurable jolt. She didn’t care. She wanted him inside her now. Markey reached out and pulled him to her. Trip pushed her shoulders back against the couch and tugged her hips the very edge. He positioned himself between her legs and then leaned over and gave her breast a quick teasing suckle. Suddenly he straightened up and pulled away. Oh no, she thought, he’s changed his mind. “I’ll be right back.” He stood and padded out of the room, leaving Markey confused and frustrated. When he returned he held a small square packet in his hand. “Almost forgot.” She watched him rip the packet open and remove a flimsy, rolled condom. It took him only a second to roll it down over his erection. He knelt between her legs again and slipped his finger deep inside her vagina. He smiled at her when he felt her hot, wet and ready. She watched him reach down and guide himself to her opening. When he pushed forward she tensed. Trip stopped and took a deep breath. This was what she wanted, she told herself, relax. She opened her legs further for him and relaxed her body. Trip began to push ahead, sliding easily inside her warmth. Her muscles stretched until she thought they would rip. Trip pulled back gently and pushed forward again. With each stroke she took him with more ease. He leaned forward and buried his head between her breasts kissing her and stroking his tongue against her flesh. She grabbed his head and guided him to her breast. He let his lips slide over her hard nipples and bit lightly.
118
Force of Nature
Before she realized it she was thrusting her hips in rhythm to him. Each thrust went deeper and deeper, filling and stretching her. Pleasure flooded her body and senses. How had she gone so long without ever knowing how incredible sex was? Her body began tensing, her muscles clamping harder around him, pulling him in deeper. She wrapped her legs around his waist trying to take even more. She was standing on top of a cliff looking over the edge and waiting to plunge to oblivion. Trip made a few small groans. “Fuck. I can’t hold back babe. You feel like heaven.” In some sense he felt like it was his first time as well. He had had many women, but none felt as soft and silky and took him so easily. It was as if they were made for each other. “Trip,” she panted grasping his shoulders. “Trip.” Her head lifted, her eyes rolled back in her head and Trip gave a one last thrust to his hilt. Markey exploded like a firecracker, raining all over the room. She felt her body shatter and scatter. Her muscles clamped and released over and over again. Each wave more intense than the last. Trip cried out her name as he held her hips. The more she came the harder he came. His mind blanked to a clean white slate. Nothing existed but him and her and the unbelievable pleasure she had given him. When he felt his orgasm begin to lessen he started moving inside her. She bucked and pumped, grabbing at him and trying to drive him in further. He had never felt a woman’s orgasm so strongly before. She milked him dry before she slowed her movements. Markey felt her body begin to reassemble piece by piece. The strong waves of pleasure eased until there was nothing more than a twitch every few seconds. She could still feel Trip hard inside her. When she opened she saw him gazing at her before he fell forward and wrapped his arms around her. He kissed her sweetly and nuzzled her neck and breasts. They lay like that for minutes before Trip pulled out of her. He grabbed the blanket off the couch and laid it on the floor and then tugged her down on top of it. They were both so hot and sweaty there was no need for a cover. Trip simply wrapped her in his arms and held on tightly. Markey sighed as she snuggled into his body. “I had no idea it was like that.” Trip chuckled. “Only for a lucky few.”
119
Robin Leigh Miller
Chapter Thirteen Time passed slowly as they lay in each other’s arms, warmed by the fire. Trip stroked her back while Markey let her hands roam his body and explore. Trip didn’t mind, he liked the way she touched him. Her hands held enough pressure that it didn’t tickle his sensitive spots. He knew the male body was foreign to her and he was pleased that it was his body she chose to learn on. “Trip?” “Hmm?” “What are we going to do now?” She let her hand run down over his balls and cup them. “You keep that up and you’ll find yourself underneath me.” He could already feel himself growing hard. “I like the sound of that,” she said looking up into his face, “I like the sound of that a lot. But, I was thinking more about Thorton and all those files. Trip, I can’t let him hurt anyone else.” He pulled her closer to him. Just hearing Thorton’s name made his protective instinct go into overdrive. “I know sweetheart, I know.” He had thought about the same thing driving back to the cabin last night. Markey shivered, not from the cold but from the thought of Thorton and his slimy assistant Jesse. Trip rose up off the blanket and disappeared down the hall. He returned with a Tshirt. “Put this on before you catch a chill.” He walked into the kitchen as Markey pulled the shirt over her head. “I have something for you.” “You do?” Excitement fluttered in her stomach like a schoolgirl. She watched him walk toward her naked and completely comfortable. She suspected he gave her the Tshirt because he knew she wasn’t as comfortable with her nakedness as he was. In his hands he held two wineglasses. A bottle was tucked under his arm and a bag dangled from his pinky. Markey took the bottle and placed it on the end table. She took one of the wineglasses and waited for him to sit next to her on the blanket. “Go ahead,” he said motioning for her to taste the wine. Markey took a sip and smiled. “It’s the wine from the restaurant.” “I went to the winery the day after I dropped you off at…” He looked away unable to finish the thought. Markey reached out and brushed his thigh with her hand. “It’s okay Trip.” Trip cleared his throat. “I knew how much you liked it so I bought you a case.”
120
Force of Nature
“A case?” He really was thinking about her. Her heart filled with something strange and warm. “Yeah.” He put the bag in front of her. “I, ah, bought you this too.” Markey opened the bag and stared. It was full of chocolate bars, every kind that was made. “Oh Trip.” Tears filled her eyes. It was the best gift she’d ever received. “Thank you.” She pulled an exotic-sounding brand from the bag and opened it. It smelled rich and sinful. She broke a piece off and popped it in her mouth groaning as it melted like butter on her tongue. Trip cleared his throat again trying to push aside the arousal she was building inside him from her sexy little moans. “We might as well enjoy something sweet while we talk about that bastard.” Markey nodded her head and broke another piece of chocolate off. She reached out and popped it into Trip’s mouth. He caught her finger between his lips and swirled his tongue around the tip. Markey felt thrilling little chills race through her body. “Did you go back last night while I was sleeping? Is that when you got my stuff and those files?” “Yeah, I found those files when I broke in looking for you. I didn’t know for sure what they were until I walked into a room filled with suitcases. I tripped over your makeup case.” He watched Markey’s face carefully hoping to read her anger before it got out of hand. “Some of those cases were there for a long time. I figured all those files must be filled with some kind of information about the people that owned them.” He saw it then, the first spark always seemed to start in her eyes. It was almost like a real flame flared in her irises. “I opened one case and it was full of things that looked like they belonged to a very young girl.” Markey blew out a breath, stirring the air in front of them. She was getting better at controlling the buildup of energy inside her body. “I read a file for a girl named Kimberly. She could heal people by touching them. He ripped her open to find what was inside her that made it possible and to see if she could heal herself.” She took a long drink from her wineglass. “She won’t need her suitcase anymore.” “Fucking bastard,” he mumbled and drank down half his glass. “We need to stop him before he finds someone else.” “We will sweetheart, we will. We just have to plan it out carefully. I don’t want to risk losing you.” Markey felt warmth spread through her body. She looked at him with wonder in her eyes. Was it possible to be cared for so much? Trip set his wineglass down and took hers from her hand. He let his hands run through her hair, feeling each silky strand brush his fingers. “You still don’t understand do you? You somehow became the single most important thing in my life. In one short, event-packed day you unlocked an old rusty door in my heart and let your wit, your sincerity and beauty fill it.”
121
Robin Leigh Miller
He pulled his hands from her hair and reached for hand, playing with her fingers. “Now I don’t claim to understand how two strangers could meet and fall for one another so quickly, but that is exactly what happened to me. So you might as well get used to the idea of being with me forever.” Trip lifted her hand to his lips and kissed her palm. Suddenly the T-shirt she was wearing became confining. “No matter how hard I tried to hate you it just wasn’t possible. I’ll admit I tried hard, but…” Markey’s eyes shot to his face. “What is it?” The look on her face made him nervous. She looked like she’d just seen a ghost. “When did you cut your hair?” She had finally noticed it. His hair no longer hung in a ponytail down his back. It was cropped short all around his head and the top was spiked. “While you were sleeping, just before I went out to take my frustrations out on the wood pile. Why?” “It’s you,” she said running her fingers through the spiky top. “You’re the cat in my dream.” “Okay,” Trip scowled, “you want to elaborate.” “I’ve been having this dream of a large majestic-looking cat that watches me. When I surround myself with a dense wall of air so he can’t reach me, he paces, sniffing the ground until he finds a way in. He always finds a way through my barriers.” She dropped her hands from his head and let them fall into his lap. “He had the most unusual spiked hair on top of his head.” “I don’t understand. You think I’m the cat in your dreams?” “Yes. Don’t you see? It was my subconscious telling me no matter how hard I tried to keep you away you’d find a way in. And you have.” She launched herself toward him, wrapping her arms around his neck and gave him a loud smacking kiss. Trip laughed and fell back on the floor with Markey spread across his body. His hands ran down the length of her back until he reached her round ass and then gave a playful squeeze. “I’ll be your cat anytime sweetheart. In fact I’ll be anything you want me to be. Do you like pool boys, gangsters, cowboys? I know how about a ship-wrecked man who hasn’t seen a woman in ten years?” Markey giggled like a young girl. “No, I think I like you just the way you are.” “Oh,” he said somewhat disappointed. “But,” she saw a trace of hope spring into his eyes, “I’ve discovered I have a thing for motorcycle riders. You know, the way they dress in all that leather.” “Like leather do you?” Markey blushed. “I didn’t realize it until I saw you in those leather pants and gloves. Your gloves seemed to create quite a little fantasy in my head.”
122
Force of Nature
Trip looked surprised. “Leather gloves,” he muttered as a smile pulled at the corners of his mouth. He could fulfill that fantasy. “Trip, you’re scaring me.” She could see his mind working. The look in his eyes was filled with promise and a whole night of leathery fun. He brought his focus back to her face and rested his hand on her cheek. “You don’t ever have to be afraid of me.” He was serious. He thought she was actually scared. “Oh.” Now she made herself sound disappointed. “I was sort of thrilled with the possibility of a little fear mixed with my leather. But, if you can’t handle that.” She rolled off his body and onto her back next to him. “Handle it? Baby I’ll turn your little thing for leather into a full-blown fetish.” Markey sighed. “Promises, promises.” Trip rolled to his side and ran his hand underneath her shirt. He brushed his fingertips across her skin making her shiver with delight. “Trip, what are we going to do?” As much fun as she was having teasing and laughing with him, she couldn’t shake the overwhelming need to find a way to stop Thorton. “We could call the police and tell them what we found. I’m sure once they find all those suitcases and his files they’ll look at him like a serial killer.” Trip continued touching her. He could tell she was relaxed and at ease with him because she slowly worked her T-shirt up past her belly button. “That’s a possibility, but I worry that when he finds out some of his files are missing, he’ll clean house.” Markey let the back of her hand brush across Trip’s thigh, up toward his sac and across his semi erection. “I thought of that last night.” Trip ran his hand down her flat tummy and brushed the short hair that had started to grow back on her mound. He slid a finger between her folds of skin and lightly massaged her little nerve bundle. “I could destroy his building and everything in it.” Trip’s hand froze in place. “Yeah, but that wouldn’t exactly stop him. He’d just rebuild and continue.” “Not if he was inside the building, he and that greasy little weasel Jesse.” Trip continued his motion with his finger. “You’re talking about killing him. You realize that don’t you?” He had the same thought last night, but dismissed it. Markey didn’t have it in her to take a life. “Yes I realize that. Trip, he’s killed so many people. He would have killed me too if you hadn’t gotten me out of there. And he’ll keep killing if we don’t stop him.” Trip mulled it around in his head. She was right. It was the only way to insure he wouldn’t be able to take another life for the sake of his research. Still, he couldn’t ask her to take a life. It went against who she was.
123
Robin Leigh Miller
“No. I’ll shoot him. We leave the building stand, shoot him and call the cops. They can come in and find everything, maybe even solve a missing person case or two.” “You think I can’t do it.” It didn’t make her angry, only a little annoyed. “I don’t know if you could do it or not. The point is I don’t want you to have to be put in that situation. It isn’t an easy thing Markey. Sure you can lie here and talk about it, but when it comes down to the actual act, it’s a different story. It’s something you have to live with the rest of your life.” “Have you taken a life before?” He talked as if he had. She wondered briefly if it would change everything knowing Trip had killed someone. “Yes, but only because it came down to him or me. I wanted to live so I did what I had to do.” “What happened?” Funny, she thought, it didn’t seem to be affecting her feelings toward him. “I was a rookie cop in Philly. Some junkie was jacked up and trying to steal a car. The call came through and I was only a block or two away. When I got there he didn’t even seem to notice me. He just kept prying away at the door. I pulled my gun and told him to back away from the car. I don’t know whether I startled him or it was just his crack-fried brain that made him swing the crowbar at me. Anyway, we struggled and danced around each other for a few moments until he remembered he had a gun.” Trip dipped the finger he used to tease her clit into her vagina as he continued talking. “Everything went into slow motion. I saw the gun point at me and his finger begin to pull the trigger. All my training kicked in and I fired first. The shot hit him dead center in the chest.” “My God Trip, did he get a shot off at you?” “I’m not sure. They said he was missing a round in his gun but they could never find it. Turns out he’d just come from a party where he raped a young girl. He was looking for a ride home.” Markey lay there thinking about his story. She could feel his finger pressing against the top wall of her vagina sending some very interesting waves of pleasure through her. “Did you quit after the shooting?” “No. I went on to become a detective at a very young age. I found out I had a knack for finding information and people so I went out on my own. That way I didn’t have to be bound by certain rules.” “And that’s where I came in.” “That’s where you came in. Thorton said he heard how good I was and wanted me to find you. He said you were on the run so much he couldn’t seem to catch up with you. The bastard told me he specialized in helping certain types of people and was sure you would want and need his help. After he explained everything about you to me, I figured he was on the up and up.”
124
Force of Nature
Trip bit off a foul curse that Markey had never heard before. “I should have checked him out more thoroughly.” Markey took his cock in her hand and began stroking it. “Ya know what? I wouldn’t trade meeting you for anything in the world. Especially if you keep doing what you’re doing.” Trip felt her becoming hot and wet. Knowing he was arousing her aroused him. “I can do better than that.” He rolled on top of her and snatched a foil packet from the end table. After slipping on the condom he pulled her shirt up under her chin. As he pushed inside her and felt her hot velvety walls surround him he thanked God for crossing their paths.
125
Robin Leigh Miller
Chapter Fourteen “I’m going back tonight and see if I can find any more important information we may need before we finish Thorton.” Trip had his back to Markey stoking the dying fire. “You think there’s more in there?” she asked pulling the blanket over her. “I got to thinking,” he said turning toward her, “he may have information on other people like you. Ya know, people that have special gifts.” He saw a spark of hope in her eyes. “If he does we could find them and kind of form some sort of support group. It looks to me like he chose people who were alone and afraid.” “Like I was.” “Yeah, like you were.” Trip emphasized the word were as he sat down next to her on the couch. He picked her T-shirt up off the floor and handed it to her. When she refused it he smiled. She was getting comfortable with her own body. “Anyway, I figure you could teach them a thing or two.” “Oh yeah, I could teach them how to run.” Her sarcasm was lost on Trip. “I’m serious sweetheart. How did you make the rain stop around us outside?” He slipped his arm around her and pulled her next to him. “Well, like I said before, I was forced to deal with it. I figured it would be my only way out, so in between drug-induced comas I practiced and thought about what I felt when I was doing it. I found out that all I have to do is focus and think and it happens.” “That’s what I mean. Maybe these people are running as well, afraid to deal with what they have instead of working with it. If you could teach them how to overcome their fears they’ll have a shot at a happy life.” “You give me too much credit Trip. I’m not sure I can help others.” Markey ran her hand down his chest to just below his belly button. “So we found the first thing we disagree about, that’s okay. You’ll see I’m right.” Markey let her hand drop lower and squeezed his balls. “Is that so?” “Or not,” he responded in a fake high-pitched voice. She laughed and released the pressure but kept her hand there. “Can I go with you tonight?” “I’d rather you didn’t. I can get in and out faster if I’m not distracted. I don’t want to risk him finding you either.” “Okay.” She wasn’t excited about going back to that house of horrors, but she didn’t like him going there either, especially alone. She didn’t voice her disapproval, afraid it was too soon in the relationship to argue.
126
Force of Nature
“I’m going to grab a shower and then I’ll head out.” He pressed his lips to hers and gave her a long, hot kiss. He sucked on her bottom lip and then ran his tongue across it. She could taste herself mixed with the sweet red wine in his mouth. She thought about running her hands all over his body and then using her mouth on him to convince him to stay. She had a bad feeling about him going there again, really bad. But he’d already made up his mind and she knew her attempt would be futile. Besides, how many times exactly could a man perform in a matter of a few hours? Trip pulled away and walked back to the bathroom. Markey pulled the blanket up to her neck and began shivering underneath it. “Please bring him back to me,” she whispered. Thorton took his so-called work seriously and by now he would be furious about Trip taking her away. If Thorton found Trip sneaking around inside his building he wouldn’t think twice about killing him. He could do it too. Thorton wouldn’t have any reservations about taking another life. Markey thought about all those files she read. How did he find out about these people and what they could do? Then she began thinking about the number of people in the world who had gifts and how different the gifts were. Kimberly had a gift that was important and could have helped some very ill people. If the right doctor had discovered her she would still be alive and saving lives. Instead Thorton used her for his own grotesque purposes. “Are you going to be okay by yourself?” Trip had walked into the living room and found Markey staring into space. He watched her emotions play across her face. “I’ll be fine. It’s you I’m worried about.” She tried to smile but her face wouldn’t cooperate. “I’ve done this kind of thing dozens of times, I’ll be fine.” Trip knelt down in front of her. “Try to get some sleep. Take a hot bath you’re bound to be sore.” She was. She ached between her legs and a hot bath sounded divine. “Do you think you’ll be home before morning?” “I won’t promise anything. I need to take my time and be careful.” He knew she didn’t want him to go, but she wouldn’t say it and that was one of her charms he loved. “When you wake up I’ll be right there next to you.” Markey leaned forward and kissed him gently. “I’ll be waiting.” She sat staring at the fire as he walked out of the cabin. She listened to the car start and then pull out onto the road. As the sound of its engine faded away she let her tears flow. So this is what it was like to care for, or dare she say love, a man. Worrying every time he waked out the door was going to take some getting used to. She turned to look at the clock in the kitchen and groaned. It was only seven-thirty. He wouldn’t be back for hours. Her stomach growled reminding her it had been hours since she’d eaten. She stood and groaned again. Her thighs ached and she felt like she’d been stretched a mile inside. She smiled to herself. The ache was worth it. Markey picked up her T-shirt and tugged it over her head. The fire had the cabin toasty warm so she tossed the blanket 127
Robin Leigh Miller
aside and padded across the wood floor in her bare feet. She opened every cupboard door before deciding a thick ham and cheese sandwich would hit the spot. Markey crafted the sandwich with a two-inch pile of ham layering the cheese between small piles. She stacked lettuce and sliced tomato on top and then slathered mayonnaise on two slices of bread. There was still some wine left in the open bottle so she emptied it into her glass. As she sat down to eat she heard rain patting against the kitchen window. “Great, as if he didn’t have enough to worry about, now he has to trudge around in the rain.” By the time she finished her sandwich the rain was slapping against the window like it wanted to come inside. She cleaned up her mess and decided it was time to take a bath and soak away the wonderful ache between her legs. Markey carried her wine back to the bathroom and started the water. She looked around listening to the water splash into the tub and echo off the walls. The eerie echo sent cold, lonely, icy fingers down her spine. It was funny how large the cabin seemed when she was the only one in it. Since she was alone, she made her way into Trip’s bedroom and marveled at the king-size bed. The wrought iron headboard was designed much like the one on the bed she slept in last night, only more intricate. Woven among the leaves on the vine were bunches of grapes being guarded by bees. Markey sat down and ran her hand across the iron. She looked around at the dresser. It too matched the one in her room but was on a much larger scale. The finish on the wood gleamed under the ceiling fan light. Markey rose and opened a few drawers, running her hands over his clothes. The room smelled musky and spicy, like him. She breathed in deeply letting his scent send small tingles across and through her body. Deciding she better go take her bath before she had herself worked into an erotic frenzy, she made her way into the bathroom and stripped off her T-shirt. As she stepped into the tub she let out a heavy sigh. The warm water felt wonderful. She quickly sank to her neck and closed her eyes. For the next twenty minutes she refused to allow her brain to do any thinking. The last two weeks had been hell and reliving it would do no good. The blisters on her thigh and tummy weren’t nearly as sore as they had been yesterday. Choosing to take that as a sign she decided to heal emotionally as fast as her body was healing. And with Trip’s brand of therapy she was sure to heal nicely. “Trip.” She whispered his name aloud. What was he doing right now? Was he there, inside the building? How far away was Thorton’s place from here? She had never asked him that. Surely he made sure they were far enough away that they wouldn’t run into him anywhere. Markey took a sip of her wine and ran her bare foot up her opposite leg. “Oh my god,” she gasped. Her legs were scratchy with hair. “I need a shave badly.” Markey looked down between her legs and saw that she was no longer clean and
128
Force of Nature
smooth. Embarrassment flushed through her. Trip had seen her like this. She looked like a hairy ape and yet he still made her feel sexy. “Well, he isn’t going to see me like this again.” Markey rose from the tub and slopped water all over the floor as she looked for Trip’s razor. There was time to worry about that later. Right now her first priority was removing as much hair from her body as possible. Fifteen minutes later Trip’s razor was dull and Markey’s body was once again smooth, clean and totally hair-free. She tossed the ruined razor into the waste basket and toweled off. It would be nice to have some body lotion right now. Trip’s soap smelled nice, but it made her skin feel dry and tight. She looked through the cabinets until she found a bottle of baby oil. Why would Trip have baby oil, she thought looking at the bottle? “Doesn’t matter,” she muttered and began smoothing it up her legs. Her body absorbed the oil like a thirsty, dry sponge. Now that she was properly oiled she began cleaning up the bathroom. “I wish I had nightgown, or something sexy to wear,” she said hanging the towels to dry. All she had packed in her box was a pair of shorts and a tank top. While she sat and rummaged through the box a clap of thunder shook the cabin. Markey jumped. Her heart lodged in her throat. A flash of lightning exploded outside the kitchen window followed by another earth-rattling clap of thunder. The lights in the cabin flickered. Markey quickly pulled on her shorts and tank top. She hated thunderstorms. As a child she would cower under her covers and try to block out the sound by pressing her palms to her ears. The lights flickered again and then doused permanently. Markey stood in the middle of the living room and wrapped her arms around her waist. The only light in the room was the dimming fire. Markey busied herself by placing a few more logs on the fire. Once the flames were licking at the top of the flue, she backed away and fumbled for the blanket on the couch. She wasn’t cold, but having something wrapped around her made her feel more secure. Another bolt of lightning split the sky, illuminating the inside of the cabin. Markey pulled the blanket tighter around herself and crouched down on the floor. When the thunder followed she rocked back and forth. The storm seemed endless. Every time the cabin flashed to life she rocked faster. Nature’s temper tantrum began to fade and move on. Markey continued to rock back and forth in the middle of the floor. Her eyes became heavy and tired. The rocking motion slowly lulled her to sleep. Before long she was curled up on the floor in front of the fire deep in sleep. This time when she dreamed of the majestic cat, she didn’t bother putting a barrier between them. Instead she let him freely approach her. His sleek body brushed against her legs as he circled her. Markey reached her hand out and brushed it through his
129
Robin Leigh Miller
spiky hair. The cat purred dropping to the ground and rolling on his back. Markey laughed and began rubbing his exposed belly. The more she rubbed the louder the cat purred. It seemed as if the cat’s features began changing before her eyes. His paws stretched, the claws growing longer and thinner. His large face became elongated, the nose taking on a more human form. She watched in amazement as he slowly changed from cat to human. Something disturbed the cat, halting his mutation. His nostrils flared as he sniffed the air. The remaining hair on his body stiffened. Markey looked around but couldn’t see what had disturbed the animal. She opened her mouth to speak but looked on in shock as a spear plunged deep into the animal’s belly. His painful shriek pierced her ears. Blood bubbled and oozed from the open wound. Markey pressed her hands to the wound trying in vain to stop the bleeding. The cat continued to howl with agony. She watched his body twist and turn as it began to morph. His legs grew longer, the hair receding into the skin. Human feet emerged from the paws. His belly where the wound oozed with dark red blood began to stretch and heave as it tuned into a man’s torso. Markey looked up into the cat’s face with horror. Trip’s eyes stared back at her with fear. Blood squirted between her fingers as she tried desperately to stem the flow. Trip looked up and behind her, his eyes changing from fear to hatred. Another spear plunged into his torso, directly into his heart. She screamed at the top of her lungs, her own voice making no sound in her ears. A large cold hand wrapped around her arm and jerked her away from Trip’s bloody, naked body. Markey slapped and flailed at the hand, the thick blood dripping from her fingers and flinging through the air. Another hand grasped her shoulder and shoved her aside. That’s when she saw them. Thorton and Jesse stood before her, still half cat. Thorton raised his hand. In it was a bone saw. Markey tried to back away and run, but Trip’s gasping breaths held her. Jesse moved toward Trip and raised another spear directly over his head. Just as the tip was about to plunge into Trip’s head Markey abruptly awoke. She panted and clawed at the blanket as if she were looking for something. Her heart raced so fast her head became light and dizzy. She brought her hands directly in front of her face and inspected them for blood. “No blood,” she panted, “no blood.” She looked around her on the floor. “Trip.” There was no sign of him just the braided rug she was laying on. Markey jumped to her feet and looked for the clock. The room was still dark but the storm was gone. She looked at the fireplace and saw nothing but a few hot ashes glowing. The last thing she remembered was sitting on the floor with the fire blazing behind her. Had she been asleep that long? Hours must have passed. She quickly gathered kindling and poked it into the few ashes and waited for it to spark to life. A few flames shot to life so Markey poked more kindling at it.
130
Force of Nature
Fifteen minutes later she had a nice fire burning and spreading its warmth and light through the room. She could see the clock hanging in the kitchen. It read one-forty-five. Trip still wasn’t home. Did something happen to him? Was her dream a warning?
131
Robin Leigh Miller
Chapter Fifteen Markey paced from the kitchen window to the front door dozens of times. In between trips she glanced at the clock and wrung her hands. Every little noise she heard outside sent her running to the front door and throwing it open. Either her imagination was playing with her, or every animal in the woods was gathering outside and tormenting her. Her dream played over and over inside her head. What could it mean? Was he dead, injured, or had Thorton captured him? “Please bring him home to me,” she pleaded to anyone who might be listening. Her stomach rolled and churned as bile poured into it. She couldn’t do this anymore she thought to herself. She couldn’t sit back and wait for him when he could be strapped to one of those tables inside Thorton’s torture chamber. She had to go and find him, now. Life wouldn’t be worth living if she lost him. There was no way in hell she could go back to her lonely existence like before. If he was dead, she would die trying to vindicate him. Markey took two steps toward the living room and her boxes of clothes when the front door burst open. She jerked around and saw Trip standing in the open doorway. Her heart dropped into her stomach, her legs wobbled and her brain did a three sixty inside her head. He was back. Markey ran across the room and leapt at him. She felt his arms wrap around her as her legs wrapped around his waist. He was soaking wet, muddy, cold and felt like heaven. “You’re alive. Thank God you’re alive.” She smothered his face in kisses barely giving him time to kiss her back. Her hands ran up and down his back like she was trying to convince herself he was real. “Hey sweetheart, I told you I’d be all right.” Trip could feel her trembling. “Why are you sitting here in the dark?” She nuzzled his neck as she spoke. “Power went out. Bad, bad storm.” “Is that what has you so spooked?” Trip kicked the door shut with his foot and carried Markey to the couch as her legs clung to his waist. “No.” She held her face in his neck breathing in his scent. “Then what is it baby? You’re shaking.” “Oh Trip I had the worst dream. It scared the hell out of me and when I woke up and you weren’t here…” “Shhh,” Trip soothed holding her close. “It was just a dream.” 132
Force of Nature
Markey pulled away and looked him in the eye. “I was hearing all kinds of noises outside and every time I went to see if it was you there wasn’t anything there. I think the woods critters were having fun with me.” Trip tried to hide his smile but she looked so damn cute, like a frightened little girl. “I’m sorry sweetheart. Maybe I should have taken you with me.” “Damn straight you should have,” she snapped back and then let out a long breath as she slumped in his arms. “No, you shouldn’t have. I would have just slowed you down and distracted you like you said.” Markey groaned and rubbed tired eyes. “Oh Trip. I’m not good at this relationship thing.” “I wouldn’t say that,” he remarked as he placed a kiss on her forehead. “It wouldn’t be a very good sign if you weren’t worried about me.” “Worried doesn’t even come close.” Markey shoved her hair over her shoulder and tried to gather her wits. “So how did it go? Did you find anything?” “Yeah I did. I found some folders in his office that had names of people he’s looking for.” “No.” Markey felt urgency grow inside her. “We can’t let him get to them.” “We won’t.” Trip’s eyes narrowed. His mind drifting back to earlier in the evening. Thorton’s car was there, but there was no sign of him in the building. That bothered him for some reason. “What is it?” Markey could see him drift off in his mind. Trip focused on Markey’s face. “Nothing. I think we should do this tomorrow. The longer we wait the more time he has to round up another unsuspecting victim.” “I agree. Are you sure he’s going to be there?” “No, but we’ll wait until he shows up if we have to. We’ll pack the car with supplies so we’re prepared if he’s gone a day or two. It won’t be a comfortable wait, but we need to stop this now.” Markey saw his face harden, shadows drifted over his eyes and his jaw clamped tight. “Something there has you worried, what is it?” “Every time I go back to that fucking place it reminds me of how I found you. I want him dead Markey. I want him dead for what he did to you.” Markey ran her hand across his jaw. “Trip.” “I’m not proud of it and it doesn’t make me any better than him, but damn it he doesn’t deserve to breathe.” Trip fisted his hands in her hair. “I’m sorry if that disappoints you.” Disappoints her? Was he serious? She smoothed his furrowed brow with her fingers letting the tips run all the way down the sides of his face and around to his lips. “You’re the only person in this world that has ever stood for me, or even remotely cared. How could I be disappointed?” She leaned her forehead against his. “I believe I love you.”
133
Robin Leigh Miller
She heard Trip’s sharp intake of breath and cursed herself for saying the words. It was too soon to speak of love. What if she just sabotaged the whole relationship? To her delighted surprise Trip’s lips pressed against hers so tenderly she almost forgot to breathe. When she opened her eyes she saw tears shimmering in his. The palms of his hands slid to the sides of her face, cupping them gently. “Markey,” he whispered against her lips, “I don’t deserve your love, but, I love you so much it almost hurts.” Her heart filled to overflowing, every empty, lonely spot in her body filled with joy and happiness. She felt her body become light and free. Every horrible thing that ever happened to her in her past washed away like dirt being washed from a car. This was what she dreamed of when she lay in bed at night alone. Markey crawled from his lap and stood in front of him with her hand outstretched. Trip placed his hand in hers. “What are you up to?” he asked blinking away the tears that threatened to spill. “I want to hear you say that to me while you’re inside me.” She heard that throaty sexy voice of hers again and wondered if she’d had it all her life. “It would be my pleasure.” Trip stood and began to follow her. When he saw the bag of chocolate on the floor he stooped and picked it up. “What are you doing?” Markey asked. “I have an idea. Give me just a second.” She watched him walk to the kitchen and pull another bottle of wine from the fridge and then turn toward her. Trip motioned with his head for her to follow and she did. Butterflies exploded to life in her stomach. His eyes held a devil be damned look that made her tingle with desire. They both walked hand in hand into the bedroom. Trip set the bag of chocolate and the wine bottle on the nightstand and then turned to her. He allowed himself the luxury of looking at her in those tight short shorts. He envied the way they hugged her ass and wrapped around her slim, toned tummy. Her white tank top stretched tight around her large plump breasts. Stiff erect nipples pushed against the material, beckoning to him to take them. Only one word came to mind when he looked at her. “Incredible.” The word floated from his lips and hung in the air between them. Markey couldn’t stand it any longer. She felt herself growing slick and hot as he looked up and down her body. One look from Trip made her feel like a sexy, adored, wanted woman. Trip pulled his wet shirt up and over his head and then tossed it into the corner of the room. Markey’s hands itched to reach out and run across his chest, down his rippled abs and back up his back. But, she couldn’t move. The way he was slowly undressing was mesmerizing and erotic.
134
Force of Nature
His hands dropped to the button on his jeans, flicking it free. He took his time lowering his zipper, making anticipation flourish inside her. When the zipper reached the bottom she could already see his desire bulging against the material of his boxer shorts, begging to be freed. Trip grasped the top his jeans and then slid his fingers inside the waist band of his boxers and lowered them together. Markey felt perspiration bead on her skin as his cock sprang forward. She licked her lips as she watched him kick the jeans and shorts aside. God he’s gorgeous, she thought to herself and he was all hers. There he stood in front of her with muscles taut with need. She knew his cock was as hard as steel as she let her eyes roam over its length. The head already held a drop of moisture. Markey desperately wanted to lick it away. He didn’t make a move toward her, but stood gazing at her. Markey knew what he wanted and she was more than happy to oblige. She pulled the tank over her head feeling her heavy breasts bounce as the material caught and then freed as it slid over them. She felt her nipples harden more as the tank dropped to the floor. Feeling a bit devilish herself, she turned her back to him and bent over slightly. Her hips swayed back and forth as she lowered her shorts, making sure she took her time. As the stretchy material slid over her ass she heard Trip moan. Markey gave one last bump with her hip and bent all the way over lowering her shorts to her ankles. Before she had time to stand up he was behind her pressing his hard erection against her ass. He pushed her long flowing hair to the side and allowed his hot breath to flow across her skin. Markey shivered as her skin tingled. Trip backed her up, keeping himself pressed firmly against her until they reached the bed. He took one step to the side and pushed her gently to the soft bed. Markey let out a little squeak of surprise as she bounced softly on the mattress. Trip reached for the bag of chocolate and removed the softest piece he could find. When he lowered himself on top of her body she felt him slide the chocolate bar between them. His mouth quickly took hers with force and heat. Tongues slid against each other, teeth scraped and nibbled lips. Trip pulled away from her mouth and began nibbling his way down her neck. When he reached the spot where her pulse was throbbing he gave a quick bite and then slid his tongue across it to soothe. Markey felt her body temperature rise as he continued down her shoulder and repeated his nipping on the sensitive skin. Her hips bucked underneath him and ground against his rock-hard cock. Trip moaned and pulled away. The chocolate bar was pressed flat against Markey’s tummy. He picked it up unwrapping it slowly and dipping his finger into it. Markey watched as he spread the melted confection around her breast and over her nipples. He drew a straight line between her breasts down her tummy around her belly button and directly to her mound of smooth flesh. She felt his hand hesitate. His eyes met hers with a smile of delight. Trip dipped his fingers into the wrapper once more and then continued to slather her with melted
135
Robin Leigh Miller
chocolate. Every where he touched lit small fires that burned and spread throughout her body. She could feel the sweet sticky chocolate melt and run across her flesh. Trip reached for the bottle of wine and popped the cork. He slid his chest between her legs smearing chocolate on his own flesh. When he tipped the bottle over her she almost protested but lost all thought when the cool liquid splashed and ran across her skin. He dribbled red wine everywhere he lavished her with chocolate. Markey squirmed and panted as her body heat mixed with the cool wine. Her senses were overloading with pleasure. Electricity ran through each nerve ending sizzling and dancing. Just when she thought she couldn’t bear any more he touched her skin with his hot moist tongue. A long slow moan rolled from her throat and filled the room. Trip took it as encouragement and continued his slow lapping at her skin. She felt him move across her flesh with expertise, building an inferno inside her. His tongue slid over the side curve of her breast until it reached her nipple. The magic tongue circled it and then he sucked it between his lips and suckled. Markey fisted her hands in the comforter and bucked, her back arching, pressing her breast to his mouth. When he released her she groaned in protest and then gasped for air when he continued on the opposite side. Her body screamed for release and then was shocked back into submission as he journeyed down her body. His tongue dipped into her belly button briefly before it made its way to her wet hot mound. There was no way she was going to survive this she thought to herself. His tongue circled her outer folds, licking and lapping away every bit of chocolate he’d spread on her. Her small nub throbbed as his breath passed over and over it, yet never touching it. She thought she knew what torture was until Trip. This was the highest form of torture she had ever experienced. “Oh God Trip, you’re killing me,” she growled. He pulled just a whisper away. “I don’t want you to come until I’m inside you.” “You’re teasing me to death.” Her hands grasped his shoulders trying to push him back down between her legs to finish. “Yes I am.” She heard the touch of laughter in his voice. While she tried to decide whether or not to return the favor he spread her outer lips and touched his tongue to her opening. Bright white light exploded in her eyes. She was so close she could feel her muscles trying to drag his tongue inside her. Trip felt her moisture on his tongue. His body responded by jerking his cock as if telling him to enter her now or lose his chance. “I need to cover up,” he muttered more to himself than to her. “I want to do it,” she panted.
136
Force of Nature
Trip smiled and reached into his nightstand drawer and pulled out a condom. He tore it open with his teeth and then handed it to her. Markey crooked her finger and motioned him on top of her. Trip straddled her, each knee pressing into the bed. Markey placed the thin rubber at the head of his cock and then pulled it away. She pulled herself up and grasped the hard rod protruding in front of her face. Like a snake her tongue darted out and caught the drop of moisture that hung off the tip of his head. Trip’s body tensed. “You’re playing with fire.” “So are you,” she responded and then rolled the condom slowly down his rod. It took everything inside him to keep from popping in her hands. Her fingers brushed across his tight balls causing him to lose some of his humanity. He reached out and shoved her back down to the bed. His arm slid underneath her and pulled her further onto the bed so he had more room to work with. Markey allowed her body to move with him. She felt him lift her legs and slide a pillow under her lower back. When the head of his cock pressed against her she tensed only for a second and then relaxed. Markey laid her legs against his shoulders and tilted her hips. Trip slid easily inside, filling and stretching her. Finally, she thought with a sigh. His rhythm was slow, sliding in and out building the fire inside her slowly. She opened her eyes and watched him move. His eyes were focused between them, watching himself enter and leave her body. Energy began gathering inside her body. She briefly thought of floating on a cloud and returned her attention back to the glorious pleasure building between her legs. Trip reached out and placed his hands on her breasts, rolling her nipples between his fingers. Markey placed her hands on top of his. Sweat was beading on his skin. His hair was damp, sticking to the side of his face. She could feel him growing harder inside her. “Say it,” she demanded as her own desire was nearing its peak. “Say it, please.” Trip removed his hands from her breasts and slid them down her thighs, which were perched on his shoulders. “I love you Markey, I love you more than anything in the world.” He dropped his hand and slid his thumb over her engorged nub. Markey arched her back and cried out his name as she plunged into oblivion. Waves of spasms ran from her toes to her head. Her muscles pulled and dragged Trip’s cock in further. When he released and she felt him throb inside her it began another fresh wave of spasms. The walls of the room seemed to blow out and away from them. She felt the sensation of floating and spinning in the air. Trip thrust over and over, deeper and deeper inside her. His own explosion was so powerful he actually felt a touch of pain before the ecstasy flooded his body. The air in the room seemed to be rushing through his hair, cooling his forehead. No matter how far he pushed into her he couldn’t seem to get enough of her. Trip blinked his eyes, panting, sweating as he released again. Markey felt it, the powerful throb pushing against her walls. Her body responded again, sending more spasms. She cried out Trip’s name and held tightly to his arms. 137
Robin Leigh Miller
The second round didn’t seem to last as long as the first, weakening quickly. Trip felt the top if his head hit something hard and opened his eyes. He blinked away the sweat and looked around. Shock was soon replaced by amusement. He laughed weakly. “What’s so funny?” Markey gasped. “Honey, you are the most incredible force known to man.” He fell forward on top of her. “Open your eyes and remain calm,” he whispered in her ear. Markey opened her eyes and struggled to focus. Her vision was blurry and distorted. Was it possible to be fucked silly, she asked herself. When her vision cleared she let out a little giggle. Trip’s back was pressed against the ceiling. “Oops.” She felt him move inside her and felt her own muscles clamp around him again. “Sorry.” “Why?” He lifted his head as far as he could without banging the ceiling. Markey smiled held his face in her hands. “I’ll try to get us down without dropping us.” She focused on Trip’s face and imagined the cushion of air holding them lowering. Trip glanced to the side of the room. The dresser came into view again as did the bedroom window. He smiled back at her and waited to feel the bed under them. Like a feather floating to the ground they settled on the mattress. “I did it.” There was weak excitement in her voice. “Oh, you most certainly did do it.” Trip rolled off her and onto his back. “I don’t think I’ll ever be able to walk again.” His groin was tender, his cock still throbbing on its own. “I know what you mean.” Markey’s body was humming like bees gathering pollen. “Did I hurt you?” Alarm made Trip roll onto his side and gather her in his arms. “No,” she said with a snort and then snuggled against his warm body. “Each time you make love to me it’s more intense. I thought for a moment I was going to die in the middle of an orgasm. And then when you came again…” “Yeah, about that, ya know that is very unusual. I mean, it doesn’t happen normally.” “Are you telling me you aren’t normal?” Trip concealed a smile in her hair. “No. I’m saying maybe you shouldn’t expect it again. A man’s body isn’t made to react like that.” Markey thought about it for a moment and decided she wasn’t sure she could live through it again anyway. “That’s okay. I might turn into a drooling, babbling idiot if it did happen all the time.”
*****
138
Force of Nature
They both woke several hours later with their arms and legs wrapped around each other. Markey felt Trip’s cock pressed against her tummy and it was hard again. She smiled and pressed closer to him. “Watch yourself. That isn’t what you think it is,” he said with his eyes closed. “It isn’t?” What did that mean? “Nope. That’s something you do need to get used to.” “Okay.” Now she was really confused. “Enlighten me.” Trip opened his eyes and smiled at her. “It means I have to take a leak.” “Ooh,” she said still looking confused. “And yes, every man wakes up with a piss hard-on.” God there was so much to learn about men, she thought. She scooted away from him relieving the pressure she put on it. Their skin pulled apart in a sticky mess. “Are there any other oddities I should know about?” “Well, I don’t know that it’s odd, but we men get the urge to take a woman at any time. So don’t be surprised if I bend you over in a parking lot somewhere and ride you like a sex-starved boy.” Trip laughed out loud at the shocked and scared look on her face. “I’m kidding.” His hand slid over the curve of her hip and around to her ass. “Oh good.” She thought she might have to wear a chastity belt to keep him under control when they were in public. “At least about the parking lot bit.” Trip slid from bed, unable to bear the pressure in his bladder any longer. “I’m gonna go take care of this quickly.” Markey watched him cross the room, his erection standing proud and bouncing as he moved. His body still fascinated her. She stretched under the covers and realized that her body felt flexible and nimble. When the sheet stuck to her skin she realized she needed a bath. Trip strutted back into the bedroom with a smile fixed on his face and plopped on the bed next to her. “Hungry?” “Ravenous.” She was enjoying this. Sharing the morning with someone was much nicer than greeting the day alone. “I’ll make breakfast.” “Trip, I need a bath. I’m all sticky.” She laid her hand on his chest and felt his tacky skin. “So do you.” Trip looked down at his chocolate-stained skin and smiled. He’d never look at a chocolate bar the same again. “Let’s take one together.” Markey smiled her response and followed him into the bathroom. Forty-five minutes and two baths later they had managed to actually wash themselves, after a quick tryst on the sink and another in the tub. Markey didn’t have any idea so many places could be utilized. She looked forward to exploring and experimenting with more.
139
Robin Leigh Miller
Trip cooked sausage and eggs while Markey dried her hair and dressed. She wished she had her makeup bag, but unfortunately it was still at Thorton’s. Thorton, his name brought sadness to a glorious morning. Today was the day they would end his reign of terror on the gifted of the world and that was what she had to keep in mind. She dropped the brush to the dresser and looked at herself in the mirror. Could she do it? Could she take his life if it came down to it? The word yes popped into her mind loud and clear. All she had to do was think about Kimberly and all the others in his files, not to mention those he hadn’t found yet. Her stomach growled reminding her she needed to eat. Markey gave herself one last look and trotted off to the kitchen. She could hear Trip whistling some sort of tune as she entered the kitchen. She leaned against the wall and watched him move around the space. He wore only a pair of jeans that weren’t buttoned. Just when she thought he couldn’t look any sexier, he did. She walked up behind him and squeezed his ass. “Hey,” he said rising on his toes. “Hey yourself. That smells good.” “Have a seat, your breakfast is served.” Markey walked to the table and sat. Trip slid the plate in front of her and winked. “Is this something else I shouldn’t get used to?” Trip sat across from her and took her hand in his. “This is something you will experience on a regular basis.” “Good.” Markey took the first bite and groaned. They were just eggs but they tasted wonderful. “What did you do to these?” “A little bit of seasoning. Do you like them?” “I love them.” Markey devoured the eggs and sausage with enthusiasm. When they were finished they sat and gazed at each other like love-struck teens. “We have to talk about what we’re gonna do today.” Trip said softly. “I know.” “The plan is simple. We see if he’s there, get inside and end his life. Then you bring down the building. Are you okay with that?” “I’m fine with that,” she answered. “Are you sure?” “He has to be stopped Trip. Him and that grease pot sidekick of his.” “I want you to stay away from Jesse. Let me take care of him.” Trip replayed the night he rescued her in his head. When he saw Jesse dragging her across that floor he should have killed him then, but Markey stopped him. Would she be able to go through with their plan? The question niggled in the back of his head. “Don’t worry, I don’t have any plans of getting close to that creep again.” “We should get moving then.” 140
Force of Nature
Markey nodded her head. “I’ll clean up the kitchen while you get dressed. What do you want to take along?” “Pack some food that won’t spoil in case we have to wait him out. Bring some extra clothes as well. If we have to wait until night, you’ll want to layer your clothes.” “Consider it done.” She watched him walk away and then set out to prepare for the day that lay ahead. Anything that didn’t need to be kept cold or heated was stuffed into a plastic bag and set on the table. Next she rummaged through her boxes for warm clothes. When Trip came out of the bedroom he laid a gun on the table along with a black duffle bag. Markey looked at the gun and then ran her fingers across it. So this was what he would use to eliminate the monster. Funny, she thought it didn’t feel cold or deadly like she thought it would. It felt like warm steel and plastic. It was nothing more than an object waiting to be put to use. “Are you sure you want to do this? You can stay here and I’ll take care of everything.” Trip ran his hand down her back, resting it on the small of her back. “No, I’m going with you. I need to make sure this is over.” Trip nodded his head. “Markey, I have something for you.” “You need to stop this Trip, you’ll spoil me,” she said smiling at him. “I was going to give it to you last night, but, well we kind of got sidetracked.” “Yes we did.” And what a fantastic sidetrack it was too. Trip pulled a box from his pants pocket. “When I left here last night I didn’t go to directly to Thorton’s. I made a little stop first.” He opened the box revealing a sparkling diamond ring set in white gold. Markey’s throat closed, her legs turned to jelly. “This was my mother’s engagement ring. Just before she died she gave it to me and told me that one day I would find the woman that I was meant to be with and when I did to give this to her.” Trip chuckled. “I asked her how I would know when I found her. She told me that I would just know,” he placed his hand over his heart just like his mother had done so many years ago, “that I would know in here.” Tears spilled down Markey’s cheeks. “I never knew what she meant until I met you. You’re the only woman I would give my life for.” He pulled the ring from the box. “Will you marry me Markey? Will you spend the rest of your life with me?” She couldn’t speak. All she could do was nod her head as tears dripped from her chin. Trip lifted her hand and slid the ring onto her finger. “Look at that, it fits.” Markey finally found her breath and said the only thing she could think of, “I love you, Trip.” “I love you too sweetheart.”
141
Robin Leigh Miller
“We need to work on your timing,” she said wrapping he arms around his neck. “Yeah, I guess it is sort of a bad time, but I wanted to know before we left.” If anything went wrong he could die knowing she would have been his forever. “We’ll celebrate when we get back, okay?” “Okay.” She released him and wiped the tears away. “We better get going so we can get back here. I plan on having one hell of a celebration.” “Leather?” he asked with a devilish smile. “You better have those leather gloves and pants in your room.” “Our room and I have more than just pants and gloves.” Markey’s eyes widened with surprise. He continually threw her curves at every turn. “Let’s get moving,” he said grabbing the duffle and her ringed hand.
142
Force of Nature
Chapter Sixteen It took an hour of curvy gravel back roads and two-tiretrack lanes to get to where Trip parked the car. He explained on the way how he found all these roads when she was being held captive by Thorton. He doubted Thorton even knew these roads existed, much less led to his property. He parked the car behind a thick overgrown spruce tree that concealed it nicely. “We’ll leave the food and extra clothes in the car and come back and get them if we need them. The less we have to carry the better.” Markey nodded her agreement and began following him through the thick brush that led to the forest. She was surprised when only ten minutes later Thorton’s building came into view, her reaction to the place was surprising as well. Her heart raced, her palms sweated and her flight reaction kicked into overdrive. Trip must have noticed the terrified look on her face. “You want me to take you back to the car?” “No, I can do this. I’m not leaving you.” She looked away from the huge building and into his eyes. The understanding and compassion she saw pushed away all the fear. “Okay, let’s see if the monster is in his cave.” Trip opened his duffle bag and removed a pair of binoculars. “His car isn’t there.” Next he removed some complicatedlooking equipment and placed a listening device in his ear and aimed a small round antenna at the building. “I don’t hear anything.” “Should we go inside?” Markey asked nervously. Trip lowered the antenna and rubbed his jaw. If he was alone he would, but he wasn’t sure he wanted to drag her inside that place and make her wait. “I can go in Trip,” she said resting her hand on his arm. “If you’re with me I can do anything.” He looked at her and saw the determination in her eyes. “Okay, let’s do this.” He led them through the wooded area around to the back of the building. There was a piece of chain-link fence cut so they could crawl through. Something he had done the night before. Once they both cleared the fence they ran across the open yard and pressed their bodies against the building. “There’s a window that I left ajar so I could get back in. I’ll climb in first and pull you up with a rope.” Markey nodded and followed him to the side of the building making sure she kept her body close to the wall. Trip knelt on the ground and started digging with his hands. A few inches of dirt later and he pulled up a rope with a hook on the end.
143
Robin Leigh Miller
She watched him toss the rope with perfect aim and hook the window sill. He gave a hard tug and then began scaling the wall. Before she knew it he was pulling himself inside the window. “Markey, grab the rope,” he instructed quietly. She followed his order and felt herself begin to rise. This is crazy, she thought. I can get up there on my own. She closed her eyes and focused on the air around her. Her body floated up until she was directly in front of the window. Trip leaned against the window sill with his arms crossed. “Show-off,” he muttered. “Jealous,” she muttered back. He reached out and dragged her inside the window. “Walk as quietly as you can.” Markey smiled at his back and formed a cushion of air under her feet. When Trip turned to see if she was following he rolled his eyes. She was floating just an inch above the floor. “Smart ass.” “Again, jealous,” she snickered. They made their way down the hall and down the first staircase. When they reached the second floor Trip stopped in front of a door. “What is it?” Markey whispered. “This is where he keeps the suitcases.” Markey floated past him and opened the door. She flicked the light switch on and gasped at the number of cases stacked in the room. Her anger flared. All these cases belonged to people the bastard had tortured and then killed she thought. Her energy built and poured out of her body lifting her higher in the air. Trip reached up and pulled her back down to the floor. “Stay in control Markey.” He was right. If she didn’t stay focused she could get them into trouble. “Let’s get out of here.” Trip pulled her from the room and they continued down the second staircase. “On the other side of this door is his office. Let’s wait here until we hear something.” Markey sat down on the steps and crossed her arms. Her diamond ring sparkled in the dim light of the hall. Markey moved her finger watching it dance and flicker. She couldn’t believe this was all happening. Just a few weeks ago she was lonely and scared, now she was engaged and about to take down a serial killer. Trip put his arm around her and took her ringed hand in his. He placed a light kiss on her finger and entwined his hand with hers. They didn’t seem to need to say anything. Both knew what the other was thinking. It would all be over soon and they would be free to live their lives. A loud sound echoed through the door. Markey stiffened under Trip’s arm. He put his finger to his lips telling her to be very quiet.
144
Force of Nature
“Have you found her yet?” The voice was faint through the door, but they could tell it was Thorton. “I think so.” Markey bristled hearing Jesse’s voice. “You think so? Jesse, I need to finish my experiment. I’m already behind schedule. Our next patient is due in two days and I need to finish with Miss Neville first.” Markey’s skin crawled and then shivered. Trip tightened his arm around her reassuring her he wouldn’t let anything happen to her. “I saw Lindaur driving through town last night so they aren’t far away. I tried to follow him but the rain was so hard I couldn’t see.” “I’ll make a few phone calls and see if anyone is renting a house in the area.” Thorton told Jesse. “Mr. Thorton, you promised I could deal with Miss Neville when you were done with her, you haven’t forgotten have you?” When Thorton was done experimenting with his guinea pigs and just before he opened them up to see what was inside, he allowed Jesse a day to conduct his own experiments. Thorton didn’t care what he did, only that he didn’t kill them. Killing wasn’t what Jesse wanted—sexual gratification of the twisted kind was what he was after. Now Trip shivered, but not from fear, from anger. He knew exactly how that grease pit wanted to deal with his Markey. “Yes, yes Jesse. I remember, but you do it off premises. Now, let’s start getting prepared for our next guest shall we? Miss Bailey has an affliction much like Miss Neville only with fire. I want to make sure she isn’t a problem like Miss Neville. We’ll put her in the room with the sprinkler system and make sure there isn’t anything combustible in there.” “Yes sir.” Markey was vibrating with anger, slowly releasing the energy and directing it up the stairs behind her. Trip watched the air funnel form at the top of the stairs and prayed it stayed there. He leaned over and began whispering in her ear, trying to calm her down. “He’ll never get his hands on the woman I swear it. We’ll meet her instead.” He glanced behind them and noticed some of the force in the funnel had lessoned. “Once this is over we can find all the other people that need our help. Just stay calm sweetheart.” She let out a long breath. Trip froze when he saw the doors in front of them rattle. Markey noticed what she’d done and covered her mouth. Suddenly the door burst open. Jesse stood framed by the opening with a large ax raised in the air. Trip jumped to his feet placing himself in front of Markey. “You think we didn’t know you were here?” Jesse swung the ax at Trip. Trip kicked his foot out and landed a solid blow in the middle of Jesse’s chest throwing him backward. Trip reached for his gun and aimed at Jesse’s chest. Before he
145
Robin Leigh Miller
could pull the trigger something pierced his skin and sent waves of electricity shooting through his body. Markey watched in horror as Trip dropped to his knees and twitched uncontrollably before flopping on the floor like a dying fish. “It’s nice to see you’ve come back Miss Neville. You really have put me behind you know. But, I’m sure I can make up time. Bring her along Jesse.” “What about him?” Jesse pointed to Trip on the floor. “You can come back and finish him after we have Miss Neville secure,” Thorton said without feeling. “You sick, disgusting pieces of shit. Who do you think you are?” All the anger came flooding back only this time she knew enough to release it slowly. The air around them began to swirl. “Mr. Thorton, the tazer gun.” Markey watched as Thorton aimed the gun at her. The darts sprang from the device and headed straight for her falling dead to the floor. “You think it’s going to be that easy?” The air swirled around their feet lifting them into the air. “You think I would allow you to torture me or anyone again?” Trip began to stir at her feet. “Markey, my gun.” She didn’t need the gun. Jesse lifted the ax in his hands and hurled it through the wind toward Trip. Markey focused her attention on the ax, dropping the two men to the floor. Like the Taser darts it dropped to the floor. Thorton and Jesse scrambled to their feet and ran down the stairs. Markey dropped to the floor next to Trip and ran her hands over his body. “Are you okay?” “Weak, very weak. Help me up.” She slid his arm around her shoulder and lifted him to his feet. “You don’t need to walk. I can float you through the air.” “You can’t float me and protect yourself at the same time. I’ll be fine. You just make sure they don’t touch you.” Markey helped him down the flight of stairs into the open lobby. Both men were nowhere to be seen. Markey and Trip looked at each other. They were in the other part of the building. “I don’t like it,” Trip said. “It’s a trap I know it. Let’s get out of here and you can bring the building down on top of them.” Markey agreed and started toward the door. She felt a piercing pain rip through her body, dropping her to her knees. Trip fell beside her. She could see his mouth moving but couldn’t hear his voice. Her body trembled and jerked uncontrollably. Pain seared her muscles.
146
Force of Nature
“You’re the one that thought it would be easy Miss Neville. I am prepared for everything,” Thorton said standing over her. “Don’t you touch her you bastard.” Trip fought his weak muscles for enough strength to keep them away from her. Jesse kicked Trip in the stomach throwing his body away from Markey. “Maybe I should keep you alive so you can watch what happens next to your little girlfriend.” Jesse brought his foot back and landed another blow in Trip’s stomach. Thorton reached down and grabbed Markey by the arm and began dragging her across the floor. She was aware of what was happening but was powerless to stop them. Her limbs were heavy and useless. As her head flopped to the side she saw Trip sprawled on the floor, Jesse kicking him over and over. This couldn’t be the way it ended, not when there was so much hope for her future. Trip’s smile flashed in her mind, she remembered them making love last night and how sweet and erotic it was. She recalled waking up next to him and learning the nuances of his body. Then there was the way he proposed to her. She was willing to bet no one had ever been proposed to in such a romantic way. No, this could not happen she silently screamed. Everything went into slow motion. All the sounds in the room became distorted. She was done being the freak. She was in tune with nature on a level no one was able to reach and she would not be ripped apart for it. Trip would not die because of it. It ends here. Markey closed her eyes and asked the air to help her. As if answering her call for help the air became very still and stale. Sounds in the room no longer drifted through constant moving molecules. She envisioned what she needed done. Her body began rising in the air without the aid of wind. Her head flopped back on her neck. Her arms and stretched out along her side. Jesse stopped kicking at Trip and looked up in amazement. The room felt odd. Trip looked through blurry eyes at Markey. Thorton aimed his Taser gun with shaky hands and pulled the trigger. Something very bad was going to happen. He could feel it in his gut. He pulled the trigger and watched as the darts dropped from the end of the gun and fell to the floor. Panic and fear oozed from his pores. He may have been prepared, but he wasn’t prepared for this. “We need to go, now.” Jesse didn’t need to be told twice. He had fallen victim to her anger before and wasn’t willing to let it happen again. He took one step toward the door and was lifted off his feet and slammed into the ceiling. Trip rolled to his back and looked up through blurry eyes at Markey. Her hair was suspended around her head in the dead air. Her eyes glowed with an internal fire that gave her the look of a demon. “You won’t hurt anyone ever again.” Jesse’s body slammed to the floor.
147
Robin Leigh Miller
Thorton cried out. “No. Don’t hurt him.” He tried to move toward Jesse but found he couldn’t move his legs. He glanced down and saw miniature tornados engulfing his ankles. “Don’t hurt the man that wants to rape and torture me after you’ve had your twisted fun?” Markey focused her attention back on Jesse and hurled him toward the ceiling once more. Her ears were deaf to Jesse’s cry of fear. She remembered the way he laughed and smiled as he poked her skin with a cattle prod. “How many other people have you raped and degraded Jesse?” Jesse cried like a baby with his back pressed against the ceiling. “How many? Did you force your filthy self on Kimberly before the good doctor ripped her to pieces?” Jesse’s only reply was a snotty drooling sob. “She was a pretty girl. I imagine it’s the only way you can touch a woman.” Trip lay on the floor staring at her. What was she doing? Why was she playing with them? Jesse stopped sniveling long enough to take his last shot at Markey. “She didn’t have as nice tits as yours, but I enjoyed them and made sure she enjoyed me.” That was all the encouragement Markey needed to end his pathetic life. She lifted her arms above her head and dropped them forcefully in front of her. Jesse’s body fell like a rock to the floor and hit with a bone-shattering thud. Blood oozed and gurgled from his mouth. His cold dead eyes stared blankly into the room. Trip rolled to his side and came face to face with the dead slimeball and spat in his face. “Jesse,” Thorton yelled. “What have you done to him?” “He will never lay a foul finger on another woman again.” Markey voice held vindication. Thorton became furious. “When everyone else shunned me for my ideas and methods Jesse sought me out. He was the only one who believed in what I was doing.” He struggled against the tornado holding his legs firmly to the floor. “You should really pick your friends more carefully. He didn’t idolize you, you pathetic shit. He merely saw an opportunity to fulfill his perverted needs and you helped cultivate those needs into murder.” Markey moved her body through the air toward Thorton. She lowered herself until she was suspended directly in front of him. “You don’t know what you’re talking about bitch!” Thorton reached out to grab her. Markey raised her hand in front of her. Thorton screamed in agony when his arm snapped like a twig as it hit a wall of dense air. “You have taken people who were given great gifts at birth and slaughtered them for your own self-righteous purposes. It ends now.” Thorton wasn’t ready to surrender. He reached inside his lab coat with his good arm and pulled out a gun. “What I have done will make this country the most powerful
148
Force of Nature
force in the world.” While he had her attention on his face, he aimed the gun toward Trip and pulled the trigger. The bullet moved like a snail through the still dense air. Trip saw it coming at his head and dragged himself across the floor away from its path. Markey, Thorton and Trip watched as it buried itself in the middle of Jesse’s forehead. The fire inside Markey growled and grew to mammoth proportions. He was still trying to torture her. He thought that if he killed Trip she would crumble like a stale piece of bread and he could continue his sick experiments. Markey threw back her head and screamed at the top of her lungs. The ceiling above her blew out, raining debris down around them. “No more.” She blew a steady stream of air toward Thorton. His body bent backward from the force, snapping his legs at the knees. The hand that held the gun rose toward her. Trip watched in horror. She was breaking him to pieces and he was still fighting. “Markey the gun.” Trip’s voice sounded as though it was miles away but managed to float far enough toward her. She focused on Thorton’s hand and pried each finger from around the butt of the gun. The sound of each bone popping as it bent backward hung in the air. The gun hung suspended in the air briefly before she flung it across the room. Markey waved her hand and removed the miniature tornados from around his ankles. Thorton dropped to the floor in a heap. She tilted her head and looked at the monster who had tormented and tortured her. Now he looked like the piece of crumpled, discarded garbage he was. “Come on sweetheart,” Trip said gently, “it’s time to go.” Her head turned toward him and reality overwhelmed her. Trip lay on the floor, his face covered and hands covered in blood. She needed to help him now and leave Thorton. She moved her body toward Trip and lowered herself to the floor, crouching next to him. “Are you badly hurt?” she asked gently touching his face. “I’ll live. Let’s get out of this hellhole.” She slid his arm around her shoulder and lifted them both a few inches from the ground. As they neared the front door she blew toward it and sent the heavy doors flying out into the front yard. Markey turned toward Thorton. His body was convulsing and twitching from the extreme pain she had inflicted on him. “I’m not dead yet. I will continue my work,” he threatened. “Come on, we have to finish this,” Trip said pulling her attention away from Thorton. They floated down the drive way, far enough away from the building to keep from getting hurt. Markey settled Trip to the ground and made sure he was okay. “I’m fine sweetheart,” he said brushing his lips across hers, “are you okay?” “Yeah, I’m good.” 149
Robin Leigh Miller
Trip nodded his head. “Take it down Markey.” There was no hesitation in her movements. She shot up into the air high above Trip and turned toward the building that held so much pain and suffering. Her eyes caught a movement in the doorway. Thorton was dragging himself out the door with his one good arm. Anger swept through her body. She raised her arms and focused on the front of the building. With one swift downward motion she brought the entire front of the building down on Thorton’s head. Dust and debris billowed into the air. Markey waved her hand and sent it off toward the woods, giving her a clear view of the partially collapsed building. She felt tired and empty and knew she had to do this quickly before her body could no longer sustain the energy. She took a deep breath, closed her eyes and lifted her hands slowly. Trip’s mouth hung open as the remaining intact part of the building pulled away from its anchor to the ground and rose high above the trees. Pipes, wires and cinder blocks hung from underneath it. “Finish it babe,” he whispered. As if she heard him from beneath her, she dropped her arms and sent the building crashing down on its foundation. The sky filled with billowing clouds of dust, blocking out the light in the sky. Markey slowly lowered herself to the ground, her body sagging in exhaustion in front of Trip. He gathered her in his arms and rocked her back and forth. She felt limp as a wet piece of paper. The debris clouds slowly dissipated revealing nothing but a monstrous hole in the ground. She had not only destroyed the building, but made sure that even its underbelly was obliterated as well. “You did it Markey. You stopped him.” She lifted her head looked at the destruction she had caused. “He’ll never hurt anyone again.” Tears of happiness welled in her eyes. “It’s over.” “It’s over and we can start our lives together.” Markey turned toward him and smiled. “Our life. We have a life, together.” Trip laughed at the wonder in her eyes. “We sure do and we still have to celebrate our engagement.” “I don’t think you’re going to be up for that kind of celebrating.” She knew he was hurting and it would probably be days before he was up to any physical exertion. “Don’t underestimate me.” “Ah, excuse me,” a voice came from behind startling them. Markey went into defense mode and sprang into the air, hovering just above the ground. “Is this Dr. Thorton’s place? I know I’m early, but I was anxious to get started.” The young woman looked at the huge hole in the ground and back to the two people in front of her. She noticed Markey’s feet not touching the ground. “You can…” “Float yes,” Markey finished for the stunned woman. “And you can manipulate fire I’m guessing. You must be Miss Bailey.” 150
Force of Nature
“How did you know?” “I heard Dr. Horror mention you.” Markey lowered herself to the ground. “I’m Markey Neville and I manipulate the air.” “What happened here?” Miss Bailey asked suspiciously. Trip chuckled and tried to get to his feet. “It’s a long story and one you need to hear. How about we get you set up in a hotel and tomorrow we’ll explain it all to you. My lady and I have some celebrating to do tonight.” Miss Bailey shrugged her shoulders and started walking back down the lane. “Okay, sounds good to me. I don’t have anything pressing I have to do.” Markey looked at Trip and smiled. He was determined that she was going to help others like herself and he was going to right by her side as she did. Life was going to be good from this day forward.
151
About the Author Robin Leigh Miller lives in Central Pennsylvania with her wonderful husband, three children, and two German Shepherd Dogs. A retired dirt track driver, Robin now gets her adrenaline fix by putting her characters through their paces. Robin welcomes comments from readers. You can find her website and email address on her author bio page at www.cerridwenpress.com.
Tell Us What You Think We appreciate hearing reader opinions about our books. You can email us at
[email protected].
Also by Robin Leigh Miller Black Smoke
Cerridwen, the Celtic goddess of wisdom, was the muse who brought inspiration to storytellers and those in the creative arts. Cerridwen Press encompasses the best and most innovative stories in all genres of today’s fiction. Visit our site and discover the newest titles by talented authors who still get inspired—much like the ancient storytellers did, once upon a time.
www.cerridwenpress.com
