Free Beauty and the Beasts [Bride Train 6] (Siren Publishing Ménage Everlasting) by Reece Butler Page A

marriage.
    Why had she said those last words to Gabe? She’d decided it was wrong to encourage any of the Circle C men in case they thought she’d agree to marry Luke. But heat flared up her body when she saw Gabe quietly waiting for her. It burned out all her good intentions. By the time she approached him, she had herself under control. When she caught his scent, familiar from the night he saved her, it made her want to do wicked things with him. But, even though she wanted to climb on his lap and kiss him as deeply as she had Oz, she held herself to just a peck on the cheek. After all, when she hinted about appreciating his efforts, he’d run from her.
    Was he ashamed of wanting her? If so, he’d be mortified that she saw his cock straining his pants when she bent over. Was he hard because a woman, any woman, kissed him? Or did he want her, Sarah Constance Unsworth?
    She groaned in frustration and need. If he wanted her as much as she did in return, what could she do about it? She rubbed her thighs together, thinking of how the giant, gentle man would touch her. He was shy, so she would have to guide him. But he seemed so eager she knew he’d please her, any way she wanted.
    She went to the sink and threw cold water over her face. It didn’t stop her burning need. Why did she crave the touch of more than one man?
    Enough!
    She turned back to her work. Time to serve the pies. She filled up her tray and stalked out. She caught Sheldrake staring at her. His leering face reminded her of what happened before she was rescued. Her stomach heaved. She quickly emptied her tray and hurried back to the kitchen.
    “You look like you’ve seen a ghost,” said Sophie. “Are you all right?”
    “Sheldrake. He keeps staring at me. I don’t like it.”
    “You’re right to avoid him. He’s known as a hired gun. One of these days he’ll go too far and the Vigilantes will hang him.” Sophie pursed her lips. “I saw him watching you, especially after you talked to Gabe. I think it’s best you leave now, so he can’t follow you home. If he goes after you, Gabe will try to stop him. That won’t be good for anyone.”
    “Gabe…Mr. Downey warned me about him. That’s why he spoke with me.”
    “Did you kiss Gabe’s cheek for saving you, or for warning you?” Sophie shook her head and sighed. “It wasn’t much of a kiss for saving your life, not like the one you gave Oz.”
    Sarah’s ears burned once more. She thought no one had seen her with Gabe.
    “Or is there more to that story, Sarah Unsworth?”
    “Sophie, I—”
    The hotel owner held up her hand. “I approve. Gabe is a good man, and gentle. Oz is a fine man, and so is Luke. Now take the back way out and lock the doors when you get there. Billy will knock when he comes in for bed. I’ll let Gabe know where you’ve gone, and why. He’s concerned.”
    “I told him I can take care of myself. I was just shocked for a moment. I’ll be fine in a few minutes.”
    Sophie shook her head. “You’ve been on your feet enough in the last few days. The worst is over, so go home. Tomorrow’s Monday and your first day of business. You need rest.”
    Sarah certainly was tired. That must be why she was so upset. Otherwise, why would she have kissed Gabe’s cheek after promising herself not to?
    It was still raining, so she rushed across the field to her bakery. She wiped her boots and shook out her rain-dampened skirts and shawl before stepping into the kitchen. She shivered as warmth enveloped her.
    Oliver looked up from the padded chair by the stove. He yawned hugely and stretched, pushing his white paws out in front while his black back end stayed high. When he decided he had her complete attention, he jumped down and trotted over.
    “I should have known you’d be safe and comfortable.” She picked up the purring cat. “And on my softest cushion.” She rubbed her forehead against his furry one. “You’re the only male in my life, and the only one I’ll ever