Breaking In and Showing Out
Phoenix: Breaking In and Showing Out
It was too quiet…
My eyes opened as I realized that fact. Glancing at the clock that read 9:25, I sat up in bed in confusion. Where was Mic? She was usually up at this time blasting the radio so she could listen to it while getting ready for the day…but this time, nothing. For a few moments I pondered where she could be and just decided to go and check up on her. Wrapping my robe around me yawning, I left my room. The ticking of the hallway clock was the only sound that greeted me in the silence as I journeyed the short distance to Michaela’s room. Sudden giggles froze me in my tracks.
‘Well it’s safe to say she’s there…’
Maybe she was talking on the phone with Josh, which was strange cause she always called him at night before bed because Josh had ranch work during the day like us. But that was the only thing I could think of so estimating that, I turned Mickey’s doorknob. “Hey Mic, you awa…”
Opening the door was the worst thing I could have done just then. It was as if time was stopped as I stared in stunned silence at the scene before me. Mic was laid out on her bed on her back, eyes closed; naked as the day she was born and a just as nude Josh lay on top of her, licking all over her, smiling. My eyes stayed glued to his mouth as he made trails around her nipple with his tongue. Mic arched her back as he did so, her teeth gripping her bottom lip. Hands were caressing and the room just radiated heat and lust. My heart rate increased as I watched them, feeling an familiar ache between my legs and a tingling in my own breasts. What was that about? Overwhelmed by my feelings, I blinked and cleared my throat to get their attention.
Time turned back to normal as Mickey gasped and squealed, grabbing her comforter to cover her body and Josh grabbed another corner of the fabric to cover his own as he sat up. They both had wide eyed as if I caught them in the cookie jar or something and that thought alone gave me a inward chuckle. Pushing that aside, I held their gaze, suddenly aware of where we were and surprised by their boldness. “Fire, um…see, what happened was….” I blinked slowly. “I’m not stupid. I know what I’m seeing Mic. I came to check on you, but I guess you’re ok, huh?” Before she could answer I closed her door, heading to the kitchen for some coffee.
It hadn’t been 5 minutes into drinking my coffee when I saw Josh quickly going towards the front door fully dressed with his jacket draped over his shoulder. He glanced behind at me with an awkward grin “See you later today, Phoenix.” I grunted, giving a small wave. As soon as he left my house, a pair of arms wrapped around my shoulders. Moving my head, I met my best friend’s gaze. “Sorry about that, Fire.” Mic gave me a apologetic smirk.
I took another swallow of coffee my voice tense. “Whatever could you be sorry about? Um…I don’t know… fucking in my parents’ house? Hmm…bold.” Mic released me leaning back against the counter, sighing “Come on, Phoenix. Don’t be like that.”
I took a deep breath and set my coffee down. “What am I supposed to be like, Michaela? Am I supposed to be happy that you brought this man in my house behind my back? This isn’t a frat house!” I whipped around to stare at her; giving her a look that would make men cower. Mic put her hands on her hip taking my challenge. “Oh please, Fire! You act like this is a house of God ever since Tommy left. Don’t you forget how they made their kids- in this house.” I looked away, knowing she was right. My parents were gone and had been gone for a while. Uncle Tommy and Aunt Belle were almost as bad as rabbits before Mercedez and August were born. So really didn’t have the right to get on her as if this house was sacred. So why did it feel like it now? I needed to stop being so stiff. Mic shook her head “What is it that bothers you so much about the situation? The point that we were having sex, the point that it was secret or the point that his best friend is Chaison?”
Just hearing that name made me vomit a little in my mouth. I looked at Mic disgusted. She grinned. “Whatever…That boy likes you, you should give him a break once in a while, Firebird. Flirt with him…laugh with him. Shit, smile! Maybe you could get a little nooky too! Lord knows you need it.” Heat rushed into my cheeks and I scoffed. “No thanks. Not interested.” Mickey smiled knowingly and I turned back around not in the mood for games. She realized that and hugged me around my waist. “Come on, Fire….forgive me, ok?” I looked down at her and sighed, letting her know I had. She giggled as I stated, “Take a shower. You smell like you’ve been fucking all day.”
Laughing straight out, Mickey took the rest of my coffee and walked out of the kitchen. “Yeah…and you would definitely know what that would smell like.” Her voice was acerbic; sarcastic and unintentionally cut me to the quick. Yes, I was still a virgin. Did that upset me? At times, but I always felt like more things were important. I just didn't have the time for men, I guessed. Ah...who was I kidding? I did want what Michaela had with Josh, but I just felt that the cons were bigger than the pros when it came to relationships. With somebody like Curtis being my earlier boyfriend, who could blame me?
After we were finally cleaned up for the day, I decided to call my vet regarding some questions. Mic came in just as I hung up my cell phone.
"Whatcha doing, Firebird?"
"Remember how I wanted to breed Heaven?" She nodded. "Yeah, you've been wanting that for a while." I looked down at my notepad.
"I think I'm going to breed him with Feathers." Roan colored Angelic Feathers was one of our broodmares. Mickey smiled.
"Oh, that's a good match. She's full Appaloosa, right?"
"Yep. So, just letting you know the plans. I've already talked to Dr. Torwudzo about it."
Mic understood. "Alrighty. You know I'm here to help." I smiled. "Thanks, honey!" Then Mic told me. "By the way, London's holding on the phone for you." "Ok." I said, grabbing the phone. London was a guy who we meet in a night club one night. London was a friendly person that always had the scoop on something regarding getting paid or having fun. I knew this was going to be something interesting.
"Hello, London!" I greeted. "Hey, Fire! You sexy lady, you! You know I heard about your ranch situation. So you know I got the hook up for you!" I was excited to hear that. "Great! Give me the details!"
London was all too happy to give me the 411 and afterwards I understood why. I headed back to Mickey's room with the news.
"There's going to be a rodeo, Mickey."
Mickey smiled. "Ooh, I'm guessing you're going to be in it?" I smiled; she knew me so well. "Yeah, I'll do barrel racing with Aqua." Aqua Marina was a Quarter Horse mare I sometimes did trail rides with. I had a feeling she would be good at the barrels as she was a very patient girl. "You want to compete with Mixie?" Mickey shook her head. "Nah. I'll just chill and sell some crafts and jewelry there." I smirked. "You bohemian." She laughed out loud. "Nothing wrong with that!" I shook my head, noticing two people coming towards the front door from the window. It was Chaison and Josh.
"The boys are here." Mickey jumped from her bed yelling "Yippee!" I was stunned by her actions. "Don't act like Josh wasn't just here in your bed three hours ago." Mickey pouted as she put on her flip flops. "I know, I just missed him so much." Walking to the front door, I rolled my eyes in mock disgust saying, "That's so sad." We exited the door to the front porch, where the guys met us. Mickey and Josh smiled at each other and Chaison smiled down at me.
"Ok, Bosswoman. We're here to help." I was taken aback by the name he just gave me."
"Bosswoman? What the hell?" Chaison nodded saying, "Well, yeah. You got to have a name right?" I crossed my arms. "Hey, how about Phoenix?" I suggested sarcastically. Chaison looked up in thought then said, "Nah, too bland."
I gasped at his words as Josh said, "Not a good start to the day, dude." He chuckled. I agreed. "Yeah, listen to your friend. You just got here after all." Chaison grinned then asked, "What do you want us to do?" Instantly my demonic side came out and before I could stop it, my mouth said, "I've been needing a new corral done." Everybody's eyes widened in astonishment and their mouths dropped. Josh was the first to recover. "A new corral? Today?" I shrugged and said simply, "Yes. Today would be nice." Mickey kept her amazed stare as Josh complained, " We can't finish a corral in one day, Phoenix. That's unrealistic." I gave Josh an unimpressed stare and replied, "However long it takes, Josh. You guys wanted a job. Here it is." Josh shook his head scoffing and I looked over at Chaison to see what he would say.
He was silent, but had a certain gleam in his eyes that couldn't decipher. But then he nodded and said, "Alrighty, Bosswoman. Come on, Josh. Let's get to it."
They walked off with Josh grumbling out, " I better get my money too, dude." "Shut up." Chaison said back. I gave a smug smile then saw Mickey's glare.
"What?"
"We don't need a new corral. You're just doing that to be evil to Chaise."
I shrugged again. "We do need one. You can surely help them if you feel so bad about it, Miss Barnes." Mickey sneer saying, "No, I have a class, Mistress. Maybe later." I waved as she walked off, then went to start working on the horses in the barn.
All day long it was bliss. I didn't hear from anybody, which truly worked for me. Mickey was still in her funk and that was fine with me too. She was teaching most of the day and besides, I had accepted the fact that she was "Josh" crazy and if we were both trapped on a railroad track in front of a speeding train, she would save Joshawa first. I was thinking to myself that I hadn't heard from or seen Chaison all day but then as I finished some paperwork from my barn office, I heard heavy footsteps. I sighed and came out of my office only to run straight into the burly cowboy. I nearly cursed aloud and saw his amused face.
"So, what's with all the crappy corral job?" he asked leaning against one of the horses stalls. I got defensive. "It's not a crappy job. It needed to be done!" He rolled his eyes. "Yeah, okay." I was amused by how uncomfortable he was with all this. "What? Can you not handle this, Cowboy?" Chaison gave me a look before scoffing, "I can handle anything you can dish out, my lady I could even do those lessons for you."
I seriously doubted that, but an idea came to mind and I had to admit, the devilish side of me was on a roll. "No need for that...But...how about breaking in our wild horse, Lucky?" Chaison's eyebrows lifted in interest, before furrowing into a frown. "Lucky? You pulling my leg?" I shook my head, saying, "Nope. You break in our Mustang, I'll give you double pay."
Chaison's eyes widened again. "He's that bad?" I thought about Lucky. "He won't let anybody but me and Mickey come close to him." Chaison thought about it as well. "Hmm..." I wondered if he was backing out, "You got this?" Chaison saw my amused look and gave me one of his own as he retorted, " Yeah, I can do it for you. Shame, cause you obviously can't do it yourself."
I glared, livid at this conceited ass excuse for a man. “Who the hell do you think you are? You come into my ranch almost every day unannounced just to be here and bug me! You’re overconfident and arrogant and it doesn’t impress me, Chaison. Neither do your bronco busting skills.” Chaison’s eyebrow rose as I continued. “Sorry if I’m the first to deflate your ego…but it needs to be done.” It was silent except for the occasional stamping of hooves and I put my hands on my hips to let him know I was serious.
A smirk graced me. Then a chuckle…then a full out laugh! Was this guy serious? Shaking my head, I did my own chuckle of disbelief replying “Now you’re laughing at me when I’m trying to be serious. Fuck it…you’re an asshole.” Chaison stared at me with mirth filled eyes as I began to walk past him. “I’m going back to work.”
The wall met my back and I was vaguely aware of a pair of hands on my arms. Liquid fire filled my body as I felt the heat come from his lips to mine. The fire spread from my mouth, all the way to the very core of my being and I froze instantly as if by instinct, whimpering. Closing my eyes, I felt Chaison’s lips kiss me over and over again; his tongue licking the very corner of my mouth and over my the full surface of my lips. I couldn’t move…couldn’t speak-all I could do was kiss him back. The heat had me. Then when I thought it was over and I could open my eyes, I felt the warmth being delivered in kisses along my jaw and down my neck. Slowly the barrage of kisses stopped. Shivering and gasping silently from the sensations, my eyes opened wide in astonishment, meeting his face. I realized what happened finally. Chaison had me pinned against the wall, keeping my arms immobile as he set my heart and body on ablaze.
Chaison held my face in his hands trailing his thumbs over my lips; big and warm his hands were and I almost melted into them but shook my head, trying to clear my thoughts with very little success. Chaison kissed me one last time softly then stared straight in my eyes. Staring back, I tried to calm my breaths as I realized each one pushed my breasts against his brick hard barrier of a chest. Chaison smirked as if he knew that was the reason and moved his lips towards me again. Pants came from my mouth as I prepared myself for the next wave of heat.
Chaison then quickly moved his lips from my mouth and began whispering in my ear. I froze as the breath caressed it.
“Looks like Lucky isn’t the only one that needs to be broken, bosswoman.”
Frowning in disbelief at this bold comment, I pushed against him to free myself only to be punished by a light nibble on the ear that made me shiver against him. Moving back to meet my gaze, he continued speaking:
“I may have a nature that you aren’t happy with, Phoenix, but I guarantee you…by the time this all is over…”
I stared up into his intense brown eyes waiting for the next set of words. They froze me to the bone.
“You will be…”
I swallowed hard and finally felt myself come back. “Let go of me Chaison. You’re delusional.” I replied in a near croak. Chaison smiled and released me, being sure to drag his body against mine as he did so. I held my breath to stand firm against the sudden feelings and after he finished, cleared my throat and said, “Either you can get back to work…or you can go home. Your choice…though I prefer the second.” I wanted him to go home so badly…but my ranch needed work and bad.
“I’m sure I could manage staying here a little bit longer, bosswoman. But just remember, I will make sure my guarantee is made.” Chaison replied grabbing his hat. After a tip of it to me, he started a lanky gait back to the corrals. I on the other hand, slid to the floor still in shock. I hadn’t felt that alive in a long long time…and it scared me. Warm hearts get broken. Cold hearts withstand anything that came their way. I had to make sure that Chaison’s words didn’t come into effect.
“You won’t break me, Chaison Kincannon. I won’t let you.” I mumbled, getting up and quickly going on with my life.
After a while, we took a break. Josh and Mickey went to eat some lunch. Chaison came up to me, rubbing his forehead with a bandana he brought saying, "Sorry, bosswoman. We have to take a break from your corral; you need more wood. Josh and I will get some tomorrow." "All right." I agreed. I didn't really care when they finished. My mind was still on that kiss. "So, let's get to the breaking in." I blinked looking up at him. He was serious! "You're really going through with this?" I asked. He nodded slow, replying, "Yes. Isn't that what you asked?"
Giving up on trying to save him, I turned, sighing out, "Okay...suit yourself." I walked into the barn, rubbing Heaven's nose as I passed him. Then I got to my destination slowly. The chestnut Mustang inside turned slightly, as if seeing if he knew who was at his door. I smiled at him and said in a soft voice, "Hey, Luck. Can I come in?" Slim Luck slowly turned around and came over to me. I stood still; I knew that even though he was used to me, as long as he wasn't tamed, he could still be unpredictable. I waited until he had his head right over my almost and I reached up my hand to grab on to his halter that we kept on him at all times. "Want to go outside, sugar?" Lucky was calm as I grabbed a lead rope and after clipping it on him, he allowed me to lead him outside to the main corral.
I turned him loose once inside and after giving his neck a few pats, left quickly. I met up with Chaison who had come up with a rope. My eyes widened and he said, "Don't worry. Only if I need it." He then put the rope on top of the corral, then opened the gate and walked inside. Lucky immediately identified the burly cowboy as a stranger and his ears went back flat against his head. Chaison smiled and walked closer to him.
Putting my chin on my hands I watched with growing annoyance and resentment at the scene before me. Chaison creeped up to Lucky with his hands out in front as if to calm him and Lucky just stared back as saying "You better not come any closer..." Of course being the dumbass that he was, Chaison ignored that warning and took a step and another closer to the wild stallion. Lucky reared as a result and with a shrill whinny stomped down right in front of Chaison who rolled backwards trying to get away.
I chuckled. "That's right, Lucky. Show him how to listen..."
Chaison glanced up at me from the dust and I raised an eyebrow at him to let him know I wasn't impressed. All he did was smirk and then got up and began his walk toward Lucky again. I shook my head. He just didn't want to learn. But then...
I gasped as this time Lucky just stood there. Chaison whispered to him and it seemed to work because right before my eyes, Lucky let Chaison get so close that Chaison could reach up and rub his muzzle. I was dumbfounded. Lucky just sighed and was content to let Chaison pet on his head and neck.
'I can't believe it...'
Standing there with my mouth agape, Chaison then turned to me and winked in victory. I rolled by eyes at his ginormous ego.
"What a show off..."
An hour and a half went by and soon I was just amazed by what I saw. Chaison had such good communication with the young mustang, that Lucky even let him touch his face, neck and body. He even let him rub down each of his legs and lift them up. I was beyond impressed. Chaison rubbed Lucky's nose one more time before coming up to where I was with a bashful grin.
"So how did I do? We'll work some more. But so far?" He asked. I was finally able to crack a smile at him. "That was amazing. He must melted like butter in your hands." We were then both amazed as Lucky came up behind Chaison and rested his head on his shoulder. I just shook my head; speechless. Chaison noticed. "What? You thought he was going to fling me everywhere? I didn't deny it. "I was hoping so." Chaison put hand over his heart in surprise. "Ouch, that hurt, Bosswoman." I giggled as he came out of the corral while Lucky went about his business.
Chaison then grabbed the unused rope from the corral as he explained to me, "All a horse needs is love and patience. Then he could be your best friend." When he looked down at me, I could tell he meant every word and that he was truly a horseman. "I see." I said. Chaison then came up to me. "You know...that sometimes works on humans too."
"Oh yeah?" I asked. He came to a stop in front of me and we stared. "All too suddenly, I was tired of resisting and decided to pull the white flag. "Look, Chaise. I'm tired of playing games now. I held out my hand. "Friends?" I suggested to him.
Chaison was all too happy to hear that and he took my hand eagerly saying, "I wouldn't want anything more. But you know something..." I felt myself being brought closer to Chaison's rock hard body once again by my hand. I looked up into his eyes and seeing the smoldering fire inside of them, nearly took my breath away. "Chaison..." I nearly whimpered. He brought his face closer to mine to where our lips were inches away before he smirked and replied, "If things work out, maybe we can be more than 'just friends'." All I could do was nod as his lips covered my again for the second time. I felt the same fiery heat engulf me, but this time he pressed deeper into me, his mouth going deeper than before, his tongue sampling my mouth. It was so intimate and so passionate of a kiss, that I could feel my body weakening underneath him. His arm came up behind my back to stabilize me. I let myself go with him and before I knew it, the kiss was over. It was a promise of what could be.
I opened my eyes and saw him staring down at me with a warm smile. I blinked and smiled back. Chaison then put my hand down and said, "I got to head back home now. Take care of yourself , Bosswoman." He looked down below my eyes. "Get some ice for those swollen lips."
I blinked, watching him ride off into the distance on Wisdom. Afterwards when I put my hand on my lips, I was amazed that they were still tingling.
It was too quiet…
My eyes opened as I realized that fact. Glancing at the clock that read 9:25, I sat up in bed in confusion. Where was Mic? She was usually up at this time blasting the radio so she could listen to it while getting ready for the day…but this time, nothing. For a few moments I pondered where she could be and just decided to go and check up on her. Wrapping my robe around me yawning, I left my room. The ticking of the hallway clock was the only sound that greeted me in the silence as I journeyed the short distance to Michaela’s room. Sudden giggles froze me in my tracks.
‘Well it’s safe to say she’s there…’
Maybe she was talking on the phone with Josh, which was strange cause she always called him at night before bed because Josh had ranch work during the day like us. But that was the only thing I could think of so estimating that, I turned Mickey’s doorknob. “Hey Mic, you awa…”
Opening the door was the worst thing I could have done just then. It was as if time was stopped as I stared in stunned silence at the scene before me. Mic was laid out on her bed on her back, eyes closed; naked as the day she was born and a just as nude Josh lay on top of her, licking all over her, smiling. My eyes stayed glued to his mouth as he made trails around her nipple with his tongue. Mic arched her back as he did so, her teeth gripping her bottom lip. Hands were caressing and the room just radiated heat and lust. My heart rate increased as I watched them, feeling an familiar ache between my legs and a tingling in my own breasts. What was that about? Overwhelmed by my feelings, I blinked and cleared my throat to get their attention.
Time turned back to normal as Mickey gasped and squealed, grabbing her comforter to cover her body and Josh grabbed another corner of the fabric to cover his own as he sat up. They both had wide eyed as if I caught them in the cookie jar or something and that thought alone gave me a inward chuckle. Pushing that aside, I held their gaze, suddenly aware of where we were and surprised by their boldness. “Fire, um…see, what happened was….” I blinked slowly. “I’m not stupid. I know what I’m seeing Mic. I came to check on you, but I guess you’re ok, huh?” Before she could answer I closed her door, heading to the kitchen for some coffee.
It hadn’t been 5 minutes into drinking my coffee when I saw Josh quickly going towards the front door fully dressed with his jacket draped over his shoulder. He glanced behind at me with an awkward grin “See you later today, Phoenix.” I grunted, giving a small wave. As soon as he left my house, a pair of arms wrapped around my shoulders. Moving my head, I met my best friend’s gaze. “Sorry about that, Fire.” Mic gave me a apologetic smirk.
I took another swallow of coffee my voice tense. “Whatever could you be sorry about? Um…I don’t know… fucking in my parents’ house? Hmm…bold.” Mic released me leaning back against the counter, sighing “Come on, Phoenix. Don’t be like that.”
I took a deep breath and set my coffee down. “What am I supposed to be like, Michaela? Am I supposed to be happy that you brought this man in my house behind my back? This isn’t a frat house!” I whipped around to stare at her; giving her a look that would make men cower. Mic put her hands on her hip taking my challenge. “Oh please, Fire! You act like this is a house of God ever since Tommy left. Don’t you forget how they made their kids- in this house.” I looked away, knowing she was right. My parents were gone and had been gone for a while. Uncle Tommy and Aunt Belle were almost as bad as rabbits before Mercedez and August were born. So really didn’t have the right to get on her as if this house was sacred. So why did it feel like it now? I needed to stop being so stiff. Mic shook her head “What is it that bothers you so much about the situation? The point that we were having sex, the point that it was secret or the point that his best friend is Chaison?”
Just hearing that name made me vomit a little in my mouth. I looked at Mic disgusted. She grinned. “Whatever…That boy likes you, you should give him a break once in a while, Firebird. Flirt with him…laugh with him. Shit, smile! Maybe you could get a little nooky too! Lord knows you need it.” Heat rushed into my cheeks and I scoffed. “No thanks. Not interested.” Mickey smiled knowingly and I turned back around not in the mood for games. She realized that and hugged me around my waist. “Come on, Fire….forgive me, ok?” I looked down at her and sighed, letting her know I had. She giggled as I stated, “Take a shower. You smell like you’ve been fucking all day.”
Laughing straight out, Mickey took the rest of my coffee and walked out of the kitchen. “Yeah…and you would definitely know what that would smell like.” Her voice was acerbic; sarcastic and unintentionally cut me to the quick. Yes, I was still a virgin. Did that upset me? At times, but I always felt like more things were important. I just didn't have the time for men, I guessed. Ah...who was I kidding? I did want what Michaela had with Josh, but I just felt that the cons were bigger than the pros when it came to relationships. With somebody like Curtis being my earlier boyfriend, who could blame me?
After we were finally cleaned up for the day, I decided to call my vet regarding some questions. Mic came in just as I hung up my cell phone.
"Whatcha doing, Firebird?"
"Remember how I wanted to breed Heaven?" She nodded. "Yeah, you've been wanting that for a while." I looked down at my notepad.
"I think I'm going to breed him with Feathers." Roan colored Angelic Feathers was one of our broodmares. Mickey smiled.
"Oh, that's a good match. She's full Appaloosa, right?"
"Yep. So, just letting you know the plans. I've already talked to Dr. Torwudzo about it."
Mic understood. "Alrighty. You know I'm here to help." I smiled. "Thanks, honey!" Then Mic told me. "By the way, London's holding on the phone for you." "Ok." I said, grabbing the phone. London was a guy who we meet in a night club one night. London was a friendly person that always had the scoop on something regarding getting paid or having fun. I knew this was going to be something interesting.
"Hello, London!" I greeted. "Hey, Fire! You sexy lady, you! You know I heard about your ranch situation. So you know I got the hook up for you!" I was excited to hear that. "Great! Give me the details!"
London was all too happy to give me the 411 and afterwards I understood why. I headed back to Mickey's room with the news.
"There's going to be a rodeo, Mickey."
Mickey smiled. "Ooh, I'm guessing you're going to be in it?" I smiled; she knew me so well. "Yeah, I'll do barrel racing with Aqua." Aqua Marina was a Quarter Horse mare I sometimes did trail rides with. I had a feeling she would be good at the barrels as she was a very patient girl. "You want to compete with Mixie?" Mickey shook her head. "Nah. I'll just chill and sell some crafts and jewelry there." I smirked. "You bohemian." She laughed out loud. "Nothing wrong with that!" I shook my head, noticing two people coming towards the front door from the window. It was Chaison and Josh.
"The boys are here." Mickey jumped from her bed yelling "Yippee!" I was stunned by her actions. "Don't act like Josh wasn't just here in your bed three hours ago." Mickey pouted as she put on her flip flops. "I know, I just missed him so much." Walking to the front door, I rolled my eyes in mock disgust saying, "That's so sad." We exited the door to the front porch, where the guys met us. Mickey and Josh smiled at each other and Chaison smiled down at me.
"Ok, Bosswoman. We're here to help." I was taken aback by the name he just gave me."
"Bosswoman? What the hell?" Chaison nodded saying, "Well, yeah. You got to have a name right?" I crossed my arms. "Hey, how about Phoenix?" I suggested sarcastically. Chaison looked up in thought then said, "Nah, too bland."
I gasped at his words as Josh said, "Not a good start to the day, dude." He chuckled. I agreed. "Yeah, listen to your friend. You just got here after all." Chaison grinned then asked, "What do you want us to do?" Instantly my demonic side came out and before I could stop it, my mouth said, "I've been needing a new corral done." Everybody's eyes widened in astonishment and their mouths dropped. Josh was the first to recover. "A new corral? Today?" I shrugged and said simply, "Yes. Today would be nice." Mickey kept her amazed stare as Josh complained, " We can't finish a corral in one day, Phoenix. That's unrealistic." I gave Josh an unimpressed stare and replied, "However long it takes, Josh. You guys wanted a job. Here it is." Josh shook his head scoffing and I looked over at Chaison to see what he would say.
He was silent, but had a certain gleam in his eyes that couldn't decipher. But then he nodded and said, "Alrighty, Bosswoman. Come on, Josh. Let's get to it."
They walked off with Josh grumbling out, " I better get my money too, dude." "Shut up." Chaison said back. I gave a smug smile then saw Mickey's glare.
"What?"
"We don't need a new corral. You're just doing that to be evil to Chaise."
I shrugged again. "We do need one. You can surely help them if you feel so bad about it, Miss Barnes." Mickey sneer saying, "No, I have a class, Mistress. Maybe later." I waved as she walked off, then went to start working on the horses in the barn.
All day long it was bliss. I didn't hear from anybody, which truly worked for me. Mickey was still in her funk and that was fine with me too. She was teaching most of the day and besides, I had accepted the fact that she was "Josh" crazy and if we were both trapped on a railroad track in front of a speeding train, she would save Joshawa first. I was thinking to myself that I hadn't heard from or seen Chaison all day but then as I finished some paperwork from my barn office, I heard heavy footsteps. I sighed and came out of my office only to run straight into the burly cowboy. I nearly cursed aloud and saw his amused face.
"So, what's with all the crappy corral job?" he asked leaning against one of the horses stalls. I got defensive. "It's not a crappy job. It needed to be done!" He rolled his eyes. "Yeah, okay." I was amused by how uncomfortable he was with all this. "What? Can you not handle this, Cowboy?" Chaison gave me a look before scoffing, "I can handle anything you can dish out, my lady I could even do those lessons for you."
I seriously doubted that, but an idea came to mind and I had to admit, the devilish side of me was on a roll. "No need for that...But...how about breaking in our wild horse, Lucky?" Chaison's eyebrows lifted in interest, before furrowing into a frown. "Lucky? You pulling my leg?" I shook my head, saying, "Nope. You break in our Mustang, I'll give you double pay."
Chaison's eyes widened again. "He's that bad?" I thought about Lucky. "He won't let anybody but me and Mickey come close to him." Chaison thought about it as well. "Hmm..." I wondered if he was backing out, "You got this?" Chaison saw my amused look and gave me one of his own as he retorted, " Yeah, I can do it for you. Shame, cause you obviously can't do it yourself."
I glared, livid at this conceited ass excuse for a man. “Who the hell do you think you are? You come into my ranch almost every day unannounced just to be here and bug me! You’re overconfident and arrogant and it doesn’t impress me, Chaison. Neither do your bronco busting skills.” Chaison’s eyebrow rose as I continued. “Sorry if I’m the first to deflate your ego…but it needs to be done.” It was silent except for the occasional stamping of hooves and I put my hands on my hips to let him know I was serious.
A smirk graced me. Then a chuckle…then a full out laugh! Was this guy serious? Shaking my head, I did my own chuckle of disbelief replying “Now you’re laughing at me when I’m trying to be serious. Fuck it…you’re an asshole.” Chaison stared at me with mirth filled eyes as I began to walk past him. “I’m going back to work.”
The wall met my back and I was vaguely aware of a pair of hands on my arms. Liquid fire filled my body as I felt the heat come from his lips to mine. The fire spread from my mouth, all the way to the very core of my being and I froze instantly as if by instinct, whimpering. Closing my eyes, I felt Chaison’s lips kiss me over and over again; his tongue licking the very corner of my mouth and over my the full surface of my lips. I couldn’t move…couldn’t speak-all I could do was kiss him back. The heat had me. Then when I thought it was over and I could open my eyes, I felt the warmth being delivered in kisses along my jaw and down my neck. Slowly the barrage of kisses stopped. Shivering and gasping silently from the sensations, my eyes opened wide in astonishment, meeting his face. I realized what happened finally. Chaison had me pinned against the wall, keeping my arms immobile as he set my heart and body on ablaze.
Chaison held my face in his hands trailing his thumbs over my lips; big and warm his hands were and I almost melted into them but shook my head, trying to clear my thoughts with very little success. Chaison kissed me one last time softly then stared straight in my eyes. Staring back, I tried to calm my breaths as I realized each one pushed my breasts against his brick hard barrier of a chest. Chaison smirked as if he knew that was the reason and moved his lips towards me again. Pants came from my mouth as I prepared myself for the next wave of heat.
Chaison then quickly moved his lips from my mouth and began whispering in my ear. I froze as the breath caressed it.
“Looks like Lucky isn’t the only one that needs to be broken, bosswoman.”
Frowning in disbelief at this bold comment, I pushed against him to free myself only to be punished by a light nibble on the ear that made me shiver against him. Moving back to meet my gaze, he continued speaking:
“I may have a nature that you aren’t happy with, Phoenix, but I guarantee you…by the time this all is over…”
I stared up into his intense brown eyes waiting for the next set of words. They froze me to the bone.
“You will be…”
I swallowed hard and finally felt myself come back. “Let go of me Chaison. You’re delusional.” I replied in a near croak. Chaison smiled and released me, being sure to drag his body against mine as he did so. I held my breath to stand firm against the sudden feelings and after he finished, cleared my throat and said, “Either you can get back to work…or you can go home. Your choice…though I prefer the second.” I wanted him to go home so badly…but my ranch needed work and bad.
“I’m sure I could manage staying here a little bit longer, bosswoman. But just remember, I will make sure my guarantee is made.” Chaison replied grabbing his hat. After a tip of it to me, he started a lanky gait back to the corrals. I on the other hand, slid to the floor still in shock. I hadn’t felt that alive in a long long time…and it scared me. Warm hearts get broken. Cold hearts withstand anything that came their way. I had to make sure that Chaison’s words didn’t come into effect.
“You won’t break me, Chaison Kincannon. I won’t let you.” I mumbled, getting up and quickly going on with my life.
After a while, we took a break. Josh and Mickey went to eat some lunch. Chaison came up to me, rubbing his forehead with a bandana he brought saying, "Sorry, bosswoman. We have to take a break from your corral; you need more wood. Josh and I will get some tomorrow." "All right." I agreed. I didn't really care when they finished. My mind was still on that kiss. "So, let's get to the breaking in." I blinked looking up at him. He was serious! "You're really going through with this?" I asked. He nodded slow, replying, "Yes. Isn't that what you asked?"
Giving up on trying to save him, I turned, sighing out, "Okay...suit yourself." I walked into the barn, rubbing Heaven's nose as I passed him. Then I got to my destination slowly. The chestnut Mustang inside turned slightly, as if seeing if he knew who was at his door. I smiled at him and said in a soft voice, "Hey, Luck. Can I come in?" Slim Luck slowly turned around and came over to me. I stood still; I knew that even though he was used to me, as long as he wasn't tamed, he could still be unpredictable. I waited until he had his head right over my almost and I reached up my hand to grab on to his halter that we kept on him at all times. "Want to go outside, sugar?" Lucky was calm as I grabbed a lead rope and after clipping it on him, he allowed me to lead him outside to the main corral.
I turned him loose once inside and after giving his neck a few pats, left quickly. I met up with Chaison who had come up with a rope. My eyes widened and he said, "Don't worry. Only if I need it." He then put the rope on top of the corral, then opened the gate and walked inside. Lucky immediately identified the burly cowboy as a stranger and his ears went back flat against his head. Chaison smiled and walked closer to him.
Putting my chin on my hands I watched with growing annoyance and resentment at the scene before me. Chaison creeped up to Lucky with his hands out in front as if to calm him and Lucky just stared back as saying "You better not come any closer..." Of course being the dumbass that he was, Chaison ignored that warning and took a step and another closer to the wild stallion. Lucky reared as a result and with a shrill whinny stomped down right in front of Chaison who rolled backwards trying to get away.
I chuckled. "That's right, Lucky. Show him how to listen..."
Chaison glanced up at me from the dust and I raised an eyebrow at him to let him know I wasn't impressed. All he did was smirk and then got up and began his walk toward Lucky again. I shook my head. He just didn't want to learn. But then...
I gasped as this time Lucky just stood there. Chaison whispered to him and it seemed to work because right before my eyes, Lucky let Chaison get so close that Chaison could reach up and rub his muzzle. I was dumbfounded. Lucky just sighed and was content to let Chaison pet on his head and neck.
'I can't believe it...'
Standing there with my mouth agape, Chaison then turned to me and winked in victory. I rolled by eyes at his ginormous ego.
"What a show off..."
An hour and a half went by and soon I was just amazed by what I saw. Chaison had such good communication with the young mustang, that Lucky even let him touch his face, neck and body. He even let him rub down each of his legs and lift them up. I was beyond impressed. Chaison rubbed Lucky's nose one more time before coming up to where I was with a bashful grin.
"So how did I do? We'll work some more. But so far?" He asked. I was finally able to crack a smile at him. "That was amazing. He must melted like butter in your hands." We were then both amazed as Lucky came up behind Chaison and rested his head on his shoulder. I just shook my head; speechless. Chaison noticed. "What? You thought he was going to fling me everywhere? I didn't deny it. "I was hoping so." Chaison put hand over his heart in surprise. "Ouch, that hurt, Bosswoman." I giggled as he came out of the corral while Lucky went about his business.
Chaison then grabbed the unused rope from the corral as he explained to me, "All a horse needs is love and patience. Then he could be your best friend." When he looked down at me, I could tell he meant every word and that he was truly a horseman. "I see." I said. Chaison then came up to me. "You know...that sometimes works on humans too."
"Oh yeah?" I asked. He came to a stop in front of me and we stared. "All too suddenly, I was tired of resisting and decided to pull the white flag. "Look, Chaise. I'm tired of playing games now. I held out my hand. "Friends?" I suggested to him.
Chaison was all too happy to hear that and he took my hand eagerly saying, "I wouldn't want anything more. But you know something..." I felt myself being brought closer to Chaison's rock hard body once again by my hand. I looked up into his eyes and seeing the smoldering fire inside of them, nearly took my breath away. "Chaison..." I nearly whimpered. He brought his face closer to mine to where our lips were inches away before he smirked and replied, "If things work out, maybe we can be more than 'just friends'." All I could do was nod as his lips covered my again for the second time. I felt the same fiery heat engulf me, but this time he pressed deeper into me, his mouth going deeper than before, his tongue sampling my mouth. It was so intimate and so passionate of a kiss, that I could feel my body weakening underneath him. His arm came up behind my back to stabilize me. I let myself go with him and before I knew it, the kiss was over. It was a promise of what could be.
I opened my eyes and saw him staring down at me with a warm smile. I blinked and smiled back. Chaison then put my hand down and said, "I got to head back home now. Take care of yourself , Bosswoman." He looked down below my eyes. "Get some ice for those swollen lips."
I blinked, watching him ride off into the distance on Wisdom. Afterwards when I put my hand on my lips, I was amazed that they were still tingling.