fish and Jona was found by the dumpsters. Sounds like a hungry animal or something because the fish had been eaten.” “Or something.” She forced herself not to smile. “All the custody threats have stopped. It’s like some bizarre coincidence. Just when they were closing in again some wild animal killed them and now the dictators of that family are gone…for good.” Relief shone in her pretty blue eyes. “And without those two arrogant bullies filling Mick’s head with their hatred he seems much better. I am cautiously optimistic.” “Yeah…me too.” “How was your weekend getaway?” Sasha peered over the rim of her coffee mug while taking a sip, then replied. “Liberating.” “Did you meet anyone? I’d like to see you happy. You deserve it after what those people put you through.” “I did meet a man, but we are from different worlds. It was nice while it lasted.” “What world is he from? You shouldn’t let him get away unless he’s from another planet.” She laughed. “Who would run the shop if I went to live with him?” “I can do it. Annie is old enough now to play in the back. You wouldn’t be in another country, would you?” “Nooo, just a little farther north, too far for a daily commute though.” Sienna wrinkled her brows and shook her finger. “If you have a chance with this man, then take it. I can manage the shop on my own if you come in a couple times a week to bake those special pies. I think Annie is ready to start helping me with the cupcakes.” She glanced at her granddaughter who nodded eagerly. She’d always been a quiet, kind-natured little girl. “Are you sure?” “Absolutely. When will you let yourself be happy?” Sasha nodded in agreement with a soft shrug. “Maybe…” “Does he love you?” “We didn’t discuss love. I just met him.” “Do you think he might be the one?” “He’s different.” “In a bad way or good way?” “Both.” Sasha laughed. “But he’d never hurt me or you. He’s not like that.” “Is he good-looking?” “Gorgeous…and built like a god.” She couldn’t withhold a reminiscent smile. “And he rides an awesome Harley.” Sienna grabbed her hand. “Mother! He sounds perfect. You don’t want to live with the big what if .” “When did my daughter become so wise?” “I had a little help along the way.”
* * * *
Ice sat parked on the beach—the same section of beach he’d first met the lovely and brave Sasha. Already he missed her spunk and the warmth she’d brought to his cold heart. He regretted letting her go. He stared at the piece of paper in hand, on which she’d scribbled the address of her workplace. Rarely did he leave the woods without good reason. Usually he only rode out to meet clients, or to the nearest market for supplies. Yet for reasons that eluded him, he’d driven out today. His thoughts drifted over the past couple days with the most intriguing female ever to show up in his world. Her wild love. Her heat. Her light. He longed to hold her again, to smell her fragrant hair and caress her soft creamy skin. Though the sex was wild and hotter than any he’d ever experienced, her presence was what he craved most. She carried a light that shone all around her. Humble, pure-hearted, and unbelievably alluring, Sasha left an empty place in his soul when she drove away this morning. He knew she’d wanted more. He caught the glimmer of hope in her eyes that he’d ask her to stay. Visions of their last night together refused to leave. She had indeed given him the best oral sex a man could imagine. Not only was she stunning, but also she loved with deep passion. And the way she’d snuggled into him when they’d finally decided to sleep ripped at his heart. Her kiss still burned on his lips just as her touch and scent lingered sweetly on his skin. If he reintegrated with civilization his days as a mercenary would be over. On the other hand, if he invited