Claimed in Canada Read online

  As I head out of sight I hear them talking in French and laughing, then one of the guys heckles me, “You watch out for those big bad wolves little lady!”

  Another one adds, “Hey, you’re not far from the ski resort, baby, just head due east!”

  Ugh.

  I’m relieved to know that they can’t see my cheeks turn the color of my pants with embarrassment. I blink away tears and quickly arrive back at the site, now completely unable to focus for a variety of reasons.

  “What happened, did somebody harass you?” Gabe’s concern is obvious as he begins to stalk off in the direction of the loggers, his small gloved hands balled in fists.

  I sigh. “It’s all right Gabe. They’re loggers and are just, well, sexist. I have a feeling that they’ll move on because their truck looks nearly full. I hope they don’t come back after today. I made our wishes crystal clear. We have no control over what they do, so it’s best just to ignore them.”

  “All right Violet, but if we have any more issues with them then we’ll go together to settle it.” He glared off in the direction that the noises were still coming from but his expression suddenly brightened. “Good news though, we should be up and live on the computers tonight, a day early. Not bad, not bad at all. I wonder how the other team is faring on their end.”

  “Ben and Kelsey are quick and methodical, and you know they’re on their A-game today. They’re probably having happy hour back at the lodge already!” Although normally half our team remains at the lodge doing tech work, Ben and Kelsey were out at our second research site fixing a few technical problems we’d been experiencing with the camera feed.

  “Ha! You’re right about that. Let’s get this gear cleaned up and call it a day. Sound good?”

  “Yes, that works. It’s our first full weekend here. Maybe we can find a place to eat in town tomorrow night?”

  “Ah, sorry Violet, I promised the folks and my brother that I’d catch up with them on Skype tomorrow night. Plus, I’m shot from the workload this week. Rain check on that but pizza is on me tonight, you in?”

  “Oh sure, maybe Ben and Kelsey will want to find a ride into town tomorrow night with me then. They’re always game for a good time. Let’s get moving.” We hop onto our sleek black and red Arctic Cats, recently pulled from the shed behind our hotel and given a thorough cleaning. Ross, the owner of the hotel we are staying at, told us we could borrow the Cats while we are here and it was clear from the amount of cobwebs we pulled off the handlebars that they wouldn’t be missed. Gabe immediately gave me a lesson on how to ride them and, despite the fact that the speedometer goes to eighty, I’m still too nervous to get mine over twenty-five miles per hour. I have a new respect for the daredevil guys who race these bad boys.

  The sky is starting to dim and I’m relieved that we’ve decided to head back to the lodge. We’ll start fresh tomorrow with clear heads and charged up Tasers. I’m far from the defenseless damsel that they think I am. Screw them. Loggers, the nerve!

  * * *

  Finally back in my cozy room at the Timber Grove Lodge, I quickly shed my heavy clothing onto the cherry wood floors. The room is charming and rustic, the perfect escape after a long day in the mountains. A fluffy queen bed with a down comforter rests along one wall across from a nook area, complete with an oak desk, a brown leather chair, and a breathtaking view of the mountains. I collapse into bed after a hot shower and try to relax after a tiring day at the observation site.

  Despite the fatigue in my limbs, I can’t sleep. I’m restless with thoughts of Luke. In my twenty-six years, I’ve never had such a primal reaction to any man, much less one who looks like a cross between a lumberjack and a heavyweight boxer. Who is this mysterious man?

  It’s more than his looks, though. His strong, authoritative tone had me nearly in a trance. I could easily imagine him pinning me down hard and taking all that he wants from me without any permission whatsoever. Although I’ve always avoided dominant men like the plague, there’s something so sexy about that attitude …

  The idea of his muscled body on top of mine is thrilling, and my breath quickens in the darkness as my fingers skim the delicate lace that covers my chest. How would his huge hands feel cupping my full breasts? I imagine that he would be a bit rough, kneading them thoroughly before he sucked on my peachy pink nipples. I push my straps down and roll and pinch them both simultaneously. I can’t stifle a small moan of need.

  I can feel a damp throbbing between my legs, spurring me on as my right hand glides farther down the slick satin of my nightie. I widen my knees as my fingers slowly move across my soft inner thigh. I imagine him straddling my petite frame, grabbing my wrists and pinning them to the bed above me while he lowers his heavily muscled frame down to claim my lips in a seductive kiss.

  Running my index finger through my drenched pussy, I can see him releasing an arm to wrench his belt open to free his imposing cock from his jeans. He’s watching me intently, measuring everything I do.

  I’m unable to hold off. My finger rubs my tight clit in firm circles now as I splay my legs as far open as they will go. The pressure that is coming from deep within me is so all consuming that I shove two fingers inside my slick channel to relieve the ache. I pump them firmly, imagining that it’s him fingering me, preparing me to take him. I close my eyes and arch my back up, seeing him grasping his thick cock right before he moves over me, taking me without asking, pushing right into me in a controlled glide. He gives me no time to adjust as he begins a punishing rhythm that leaves me reeling beneath him. My dripping finger moves back to my pulsing clit, rubbing desperately. I envision his ripped biceps as he holds himself above me, lifting me higher with each hard thrust. Just as his dark eyes connect with mine I cry out and my orgasm takes over, forcing the breath from my lungs as the hard spasms lead me into pure bliss.

  I flop back onto the feather pillow and pant. I have never had such an intense orgasm, and it was all centered around that arrogant jerk! How could he possibly have such a profound effect on me? It would be beyond irresponsible to get involved on any level with such a darkly intense man, so I resolve to stay clear of the loggers from now on, regardless of how much noise they make.

  But that doesn’t mean I can’t fantasize about him. My last thought before I drift off to sleep is of his seductive almond shaped eyes holding mine captive …

  Chapter Two

  One in Every Town

  “Afternoon Violet, how’s the research going today?”

  I shake off the chill along with the snowflakes in the front foyer of the quaint lodge and smile at the middle-aged couple behind the front desk. “Hey Ross, hi Janelle. It’s coming along well, but with a snowstorm bearing down on us we figured that we’d play it safe and call it a day. How are you?”

  “We’re wonderful. The lodge is full this weekend and we’ve just had a surprise visit from our nephew, Damon. You’ll have to meet him. He has a cabin in the area and visits when he finds time off from work. He’s a surgeon, you know. Such a sweet boy, too, and quite a looker.” Janelle winks at me, and I pretend not to notice.

  Janelle is in her young forties and exudes warmth and natural beauty, her long honey colored hair free of dye and glowing skin free of makeup. Her outfit is simple but chic; I admire the white cable knit sweater she has paired with slim black pants and black lace up North Face boots. Her husband, Ross, is tall and thin with an oval face and crystal blue eyes.

  The lodge is a definite reflection of its owners. The open lobby space and beams frame the rich reds and olive greens of the overstuffed sofas that surround the rock fireplace and its welcoming glow. A giant picture window gives guests a 160 degree view of the snowy mountain range. Ross and Janelle work hard to make everyone feel welcome by showing genuine interest and warmth.

  “I’m happy for you that the lodge is packed,” I say, “and I’m certain that your nephew is relieved to have beaten the storm.”

  “Janelle and I would like to invite you and Gabe out for di
nner at The Buck Bar. Have you heard of it?” Ross asks. I shake my head and he continues. “It’s practically an institution around here. They have fantastic steaks and pretty darn good live music every Saturday night. We’d really love it if you both would join us. Give you a real taste of Haines Junction.”

  I hesitate, but what the heck, it’s Saturday and I could use a night out. Plus, it would be nice to be introduced to the quaint downtown streets I passed through when we got here. Maybe I’ll even meet a few locals, make some new friends. It’s likely because Ross and Janelle own the lodge and seem to know just about everyone who comes through the door—including the locals, who also come to hang out at the bar by the hearth during happy hour. I asked Ross the other day how they knew most everyone on a first name basis, and he explained that the majority of their guests come from the U.S. and Canada to stay with them at least twice a year. I can see why. The serene lodge is a picturesque getaway from the stresses of everyday life.

  “If you’re driving, then I’m in,” I say. “Gabe said that he was going to shower and catch up with some family on Skype tonight so I think he’ll pass, but I’ll stop by his room to double-check. Ben is taking Kelsey out to a movie in town but I may be able to convince them to swing by after the show ends. Let me grab a quick shower and then I’ll be all set to go. What time should I meet you?”

  Janelle grins broadly. “That sounds perfect, Violet. Let’s meet here in the lobby at seven-thirty.”

  I give a wave as I head down the log-hewn hallway to my room.

  * * *

  What do you wear to a Canadian cowboy bar? After my steaming shower, I stand in front of the antique wooden wardrobe. Seeing as how I’m quite limited on going-out-apparel, my decision isn’t too difficult. I select a fitted scarlet red BCBG sweater with a dramatic low dipped back and pair it with dark skinny jeans. Just to be sassy, I add my red Justin-stitched cowgirl boots that I brought along just for situations like this.

  I brush my long, dark brown hair until it shines and then put some Soft Curl in it for body. I sweep my powdered brush around my heart shaped face and apply sheer pink gloss on my pouty lips, along with a touch of mascara to highlight my pale green eyes. Grabbing my parka, I head down the hall to Ben and Kelsey’s shared room.

  Kelsey and I met as freshman during our first day of biology class. With her wild mane of strawberry blonde curls, she’s hard to miss. I admire her innovative ideas and sharp wit. She and Ben have dated for the past three years and as a team they are both energetic and creative. A former soccer player, Ben is five foot nine inches and packed with muscle. He always has an easy smile on his boyish face and I enjoy working with both of them.

  I knock and wait a few minutes for the giggling blonde to open the door. When she does it is evident from her skewed clothing that she and Ben won’t be going anywhere tonight. I ask anyway.

  “Hey Kels, if you guys aren’t going to a movie tonight, you’re welcome to join Ross, Janelle, and I at The Buck Bar in town.” I peer behind her into the room and Ben gives me a little wave from where he is reclining on the bed.

  “Oh, um,” Kelsey tugs at her shirt to straighten it. “I think we decided to stay in tonight. We’re both so worn out with work and all. Maybe tomorrow night?”

  “Sure, no problem. I’ll see you two later then.”

  “Throw a few back for me!” Ben calls out as Kelsey giggles and shuts the door. I shake my head and wander down the hall to the lobby, ten minutes early.

  After Ross and Janelle join me, we hop into Ross’ huge Wrangler and head down the mountain. Ross and Janelle are so welcoming and we all count ourselves fortunate to have found their lodge for our extended stay here.

  * * *

  The Buck Bar is absolutely packed by the time we arrive at eight o’clock. It looks like an old gin mill that has been converted into a huge bar/restaurant combo. The weathered timber beams along the ceiling are monstrous, and the giant arching windows give an unparalleled view of the surrounding area. Wicked cool tiger-striped, cone-shaped Venetian glass lights hang by metal cables down the long length of the granite bar.

  There’s a massive stone fireplace blazing on one wall and a large black stage featuring a live band on the other. The overall dim lighting gives the place a mysterious flair. I’m instantly excited to be here, never expecting to find such a cool place in the Canadian wilderness.

  A young, pretty blonde hostess greets Ross and Janelle by name and has to shout over the band as we head toward our booth. I admire her pale blue, skintight baby doll T that reads directly across her chest “I Got Buck Wild At The Buck Bar” complete with a set of black pointy antlers resting below the text. I definitely need to pick up one of those.

  “Saved you guys your favorite spot,” she says, leading us to a booth near the stage, although not so close that our ears will be pummeled by the noise.

  “Thanks Cara,” Ross replies with a grin. Although I know he is a decade older than Janelle, he doesn’t look a day over forty. I bet his nephew is stunning as well.

  As we settle into our massive, oak booth and order our drinks, Janelle turns to me with her trademark wide smile. “Damon said he would be here a little later. We really look forward to you meeting him.”

  Uh-oh.

  I was already wondering if this was a set-up, a situation I’m usually not fond of, but seeing as they are wonderful people and I’m booked to stay at their lodge for the next two months I decide to go right along with it.

  “That would be nice. I look forward to it,” I reply.

  Ross levels Janelle with a stern, yet loving, look. “Come on, Janelle, let’s not push her into anything. They can meet and then we’re out of the situation, all right? Violet here may have a fella back in Seattle.”

  Thankfully, the waitress arrives in the nick of time to take our order before any personal questions about my dating history can begin. With my sole focus being on my studies for as long as I can recall, my only real relationship to speak of was with a teaching assistant during my sophomore year. As hard as I tried, the initial spark turned out to be nothing more than one of common intellectual interest. We were only together for four months and by the end we both knew the chemistry just wasn’t there. It was not even in the same stratosphere of the wrecking ball of lust that hit me when I encountered Luke.

  * * *

  Two vodka tonics later and I’m feeling more than relaxed. We’ve just finished an amazing steak dinner with all the trimmings and decide to move to the main bar to find a seat closer to the action.

  “This music is awesome Janelle.” I have to shout so she can hear me.

  She leans in close. “They’re local boys, if you can believe it. The word is, they’re about to sign with Sony. They still play here whenever they get the chance, though. Everyone in town enjoys coming out to see them.”

  Their music is Indie Rock with a blues touch. I even like their name, Double Black Diamond. No doubt they have to be boarders or skiers. They look it as well, hot twenty-somethings with long, tousled hair just begging to be touched by a groupie.

  As I swivel around on my stool to scan the packed bar my eyes lock with the dark, almond-shaped eyes I couldn’t seem to get out of my mind last night. Luke’s intense gaze immediately makes my breath catch in my throat and my pulse quicken. I had been secretly hoping that he would show up tonight, and now he’s clearly visible across the crowd, casually leaning against the back wall with a longneck dangling in his hand.

  Oh, hell yes.

  He looks even more stunning than I remember, wearing a midnight blue thermal that stretches perfectly across his enormous chest. It’s topped with a black North Face fleece jacket. His dark hair is wet, like he just stepped out of the shower before coming here. Images of him naked and soapy flash into my head. What I wouldn’t give to have that man buck naked and pinning me down to his bed right now!

  When I don’t turn away he gives me a nod and a slight grin that abruptly fades and turns to what looks like an angry
scowl.

  My brows knit together in confusion, but before I can process what would make him act so strangely I feel a large, warm palm on my shoulder as a smooth, rich voice speaks close to my ear, “So this must be Violet.”

  I turn to the left and look way up into crystal blue eyes that are set in a classically handsome face strangely similar to Ross’s. His lips are full and a perfect complement to his oval-shaped face. High, refined cheekbones are set on either side of a sleek, almost aristocratic nose.

  Damon, it has to be.

  His hair is light brown and cut precisely in a conservative business style. Before I can say a word he grins down at me and says, “Hey there, I’m Damon. I’ve heard nice things about you from my aunt and uncle.”

  Feeling the heat in my cheeks, I smile. “Nice to meet you, too. Are you on vacation Damon?” He studies my face for a long moment before responding, and I can feel his cool blue eyes running over me. “You could say that. I’m taking a break from the hospital in Quebec.”

  Janelle pats his arm proudly. “Damon’s a surgeon. The very best at his hospital.”

  He looks like a model right out of a Ralph Lauren advertisement—all tanned, chiseled and sophisticated. I’m immediately attracted to him.

  We all sit at the bar and enjoy the music because it’s really too loud to have a proper conversation. Not that I mind. Damon makes great eye candy.

  After a while, the vodka tonics take their toll and I glance around the room, trying to locate the bathroom. Spotting it, I lean a bit toward Damon and say, “I’ll be back in a moment.”

  He studies me intently, his expression serious. “Don’t be long.”

  Interesting, another dominant man. It must be the norm around here, rugged and domineering.

  “Sure,” I say with a breezy grin, unsure how else to respond.

  Before I’m able to leave the bar, Ross leans back on his barstool and asks, “Violet, Janelle and I have a full day tomorrow with the guests and all. Would you mind if Damon gives you a lift home when you’re ready to leave?”