In Too Deep (8 page)

She smiled. “Not at all.”

Brody touched her shoulder and she felt the se
nsation all the way to her toes. “I need to go take a look at your Harley. I’ll call later to give you an idea of how long I need to fix your bike.”

“
Thank you. I trust my girl’s in good hands.” She gazed up at him, desperately trying to tamp down the image of his hands on her body.

“
Sure is.” He licked his full lips like he might be envisioning the very same thing. “Later, sugar.” He turned and strolled out the door. Fallon couldn’t stop herself as she turned to watch him leave. At least she bit back the lusty sigh before it could slip out.

When she turned around, Adam was grinning from ear to ear with one eyebrow arched.
“It has been years since he’s looked at a woman like that.”

“
Hmph, whatever. I’m not hooking up with anyone. I’ve already explained that to Brody.” Fallon fixed Adam with a serious look. “Shall we get down to business?”

* * * *

Jess stepped into Fallon’s new station at Inktastic and couldn’t help smiling. She brought food, which Fallon would rarely refuse. “Hey, I’m stealing you for lunch,” she announced.

Fallon rolled her eyes as she looked up from wiping down the counter.
“Where are we planning to eat?”

“
There’s a park just up the street. Come on, I want to talk.” Jess grabbed her arm and Fallon dropped the rag on the counter as she followed her out. “I brought BLT’s and tangerines.”

Fallon perked up.
“Please tell me there’s extra bacon and you made it crispy.”

“
Duh, of course.” Jess had made Fallon’s favorite sandwich on purpose.

“
Hey, Adam?” Fallon called out. His room was across the hall from hers. “You said I have about forty minutes until the next wolf shows up, right?” He had the door open, and was coloring in a woman’s sleeve.

“
Yup,” he answered. “Take your time though. This is your first day and you’re doing amazing work.

She waved.
“See ya soon.”

“
Bye, Adam.” Jess popped her head in and winked at him. He just grinned back. He wanted his brother to find someone as much as Jess wanted Fallon to be happy. Brody had been sad and melancholy ever since she met him two years ago, which was depressing because he was such a great guy.

In less than 24 hours, Brody smiled more than the whole time she’d known him. Jess always knew he would take one look at Fallon and join the living. Now, Fallon just needed to get with the program and see how much she needed him.

Jess led Fallon to an empty picnic table under the shade of a tree and set out lunch. She even brought iced coffee. “So, how do you like Edenton. Think you’ll stick around out here?”

Fallon rolled her eyes, but there was a twinkle.
“Look, I know what you’re trying to do, and as long as you don’t think I’m hooking up with Brody, we’re good. Okay? I’ll stay. Just no setting me up. Got it?”

Oh, Jess didn’t think. She knew.
“Don’t worry. I’m not doing anything.” Nothing she hadn’t already set in motion, that is. As long as Fallon stayed in Brody’s apartment, she was going to fall for him. It was inevitable. “The apartment isn’t so bad, is it?”

Fallon shook her head.
“No. And Brody’s a good guy. Everything I need is in the apartment. I’ll just avoid him if he becomes a pain.” Fallon picked up a sandwich, but met Jess’ gaze. “I honestly didn’t have a clue where I was going last night. I had every intention to keep driving until I was too tired to keep going.” Fallon glanced away for a moment and shrugged before looking back at Jess. “I’ll only say this once. I’m glad you set this up.” She took a deep breath, and Jess saw the pain in Fallon’s eyes. “Just one question, why the hell didn’t either of you tell me Jamie was moving up?”

Well damn, now Jess felt shitty for hurting Fallon.
“I’m sorry we didn’t. I just knew things between you and Isaac were coming to an end, and I didn’t want you to think I was manipulating anything.”

Fallon snorted, amusement lightening her tone.
“You did though. I didn’t even have to interview for a job. And the guy who crashed into me just happened to have an empty apartment.”

“
I did try to warn you about the crash,” she replied.

“
Okay, fine.”

“
I had nothing to do with the apartment being available. And even if I hadn’t talked to Adam, Gabriel would have when he found out you were up here. I only let him know you were going to be in town since I knew they were looking for a new artist. I didn’t really do anything
that
meddlesome.”

“
But you guys didn’t tell me Jamie was moving up here,” Fallon said softly, clearly hurt by the omission.

Jess reached over and squeezed her hand.
“Only because I knew you would wind up stuck up here, and you would have fought against fate if you knew. We’re both hoping you’re staying here.” She smiled. “Besides I keep having visions starring you in Edenton. Don’t worry. I won’t share any of them.”

“
Good. I hate it when you go all prophet on me.” Fallon squeezed back and let go. “I guess this will be like old times.”

“
I am sorry we didn’t tell you. I just really wanted you up here. I miss you.”

“
You too. But maybe if you had just told me, I would have moved sooner.”

“
Liar.” Jess teased.

“
Okay, maybe not.” Fallon laughed. “I am looking forward to our girl’s night. I’ll bring the chili if you supply the alcohol.”

Fallon was finally finished cleaning up her station and was anxious to get some news about her motorcycle. Brody had called shortly after leaving Inktastic, but she was already working on Slater’s tattoo. So she told Adam she would call back, but she had back to back clients, and a surprise lunch date with Jess.

Now she was anxious to talk to Brody.
She found Adam at the table sketching two doves. Leaning in, she took a closer look. “Very pretty.”

“Thank you.”
He smiled up at her.

“
I’m done for the night, so I’m just going to head over to find out how long before I have my motorcycle back.”

Adam chuckled and his brow arched.
“That’s all? Just to see your bike?”

Rolling her eyes, she started for the door.
“Of course. I hate being without a ride.”

“
My brother will give you all the rides you want.” He winked and she flipped him off. He was such a twit. “Later Fallon.”

She pushed the door open and stepped into the warm spring evening. The fresh mountain air was a pleasant change from San Francisco. For the first time in years, she was out of the city, and
was starting to realize how good it felt to be surrounded by the forest and earth instead of cement and smog.

Fallon took her time walking the three blocks to Brody’s shop, and came to a stop to look up at the hand painted sign above the door.
The words
Brody’s Customs and Repair
were curved over the top of a painted motorcycle. The same logo was etched into the window of the door.

She stepped inside and admired the warm space. Her gaze roved over the room, taking in the framed pictures of a variety motorcycles, though most were Harley Davidsons. There was a long wooden counter with two large ferns placed on either side, and a little man perched on a stool behind the counter.

He stood with a welcoming smile. Her first impression was that he was a brownie. Not the dessert, but one of the fae. Maybe it was his leathery brown skin, or muddy brown hair and wise eyes.

“
Evening, Fallon, dear.” His eyes sparkled with joy. His melodic accent reminded her of other fae. “I do believe you are a sight for sore eyes. I even understand the smile on the lad’s face when he came in this morn.”

“
Really?” She tilted her head, wondering what Brody told him. “And you are?”

“
Oh, my, I am dreadfully sorry, lass. I am Phineas Brown.” The name was appropriate. With a wink, he nodded back to the door leading to the garage. “Brody mentioned you were coming in and said to send you back. I think he’s about done for the day.”

“
Thank you.” She slipped through the door.

There were three lifts, but two were empty. The closest held her bike. Brody stood next to her motorcycle as he removed a part of the engine. She watched his muscles strain against his shirt as he turned to greet her.
“Hello, Fallon.”

“
Hey.” She frowned at her bike. Most of the body was off the frame, and pieces of the engine were taken apart. By her estimation, it was bad. “How is she?”

“
Not bad.” He nodded at her Harley and the corners of his mouth lifted in a smile. “I should have her ready by Wednesday, as long as the parts get here on time.”

“
Really?” She took another dubious look at her motorcycle.

He shrugged.
“Body damage always looks worse than it is.” He took a step toward her and changed the subject. “I hear they put you to work right away.”

“
Yeah, I only left because they ran out of clients.”

“
What about me? Think you’d be willing to give me a tattoo?” He put his hands in his back pockets and wet his lips.

“
Sure. I’ve only seen the one here.” Fallon pointed to the back of her shoulder. She saw his wolf’s head the night before. Considering he was naked when she met him, she would have noticed more. Still, she had to ask. “Do you have any others?”

“
Not yet, but I’ve been considering more for an awfully long time.” His gaze dropped to inspect his hands. “Sarah never liked tattoos much, so I never put much more thought into them.” Her brow quirked up and he rushed to explain. “Slater wants any wolf interested in a ward to get in to see you ASAP. And like I said, I’ve been considering more for years.”

Fallon
talked countless people out of tattooing a name into their skin if they weren’t totally committed to that person. Not putting any tattoo on your body for the one you loved made hell of a lot more sense than branding yourself with a passing phase.

She nodded.
“When were you thinking? And do you have something in mind?”

“
I do. In fact Adam drew the design the same time he drew my wolf. Sarah wasn’t very thrilled, so I never had Adam do the piece.” He shrugged. “It was important to her, so while she was here the ink really didn’t seem important.”

She smiled softly.
“She saw you every day. You’re sweet to consider her point of view.”

He looked into her eyes.
“Have you ever let someone else dictate what you wore on your body?”

“
No.” She snorted. “But I would consider it for the right person.” She bit her tongue, wishing she had kept her mouth shut. She didn’t believe that person existed.

He searched her face as he prowled toward her.
“Never been in love?”

“
No, never.” She swallowed hard and attempted to break free of the stare that was pulling her under. “I’m not sure I’m made for love.”

“
Why not?” he asked in a soft purr that shivered down her spine.

Shrugging, she had to think for a minute which was hard to do when he looked at her that way.
“I’ve never felt so much for someone I was willing to give everything. Never needed someone so bad I couldn’t walk away.”

“
Hmm.” His curious gaze never left hers as he walked past her to wash up. “Fair enough. Sorry if that was too personal.” The hint of sadness in his voice tugged on her heart. He looked down to wash his hands and asked, “You don’t mind doing the tattoo tonight?”

“
Not at all.” She turned back to her bike, wishing he didn’t affect her so strongly. “It was a short day. When were you thinking?”

“
Now, if you don’t mind. Before dinner.” There was a teasing edge to his low, slightly breathy voice. Goddess, everything about the man turned her on. Why did he have to be so damned charming, and considerate?

“
Not at all. Are we walking or driving?”

“
Let’s walk.”

Fallon exited through the open garage door and found herself in the alley between his building and the next. She walked to the street. Brody stopped to lock up, but caught up easily. Neither of them said anything as they made their way down the street.

Before she could get to the door at Inktastic, he rushed past her to open it. “After you, sugar.” He swept his arm inside with a dangerous little grin.

Snorting, she raised a single
brow as she passed. “For the record, I can open my own door, and I’m not that sweet.”

“
See now, I have a hard time believing that. ‘Cause you smell awfully sweet from here,” He purred, his voice making her whole body crave contact with his. She reminded herself of all the reasons she wasn’t getting involved with anyone, especially Brody.

“
Damn.” Adam smirked with a devilish gleam in his eyes. “I guess I forgot to mention my little brother wanted a piece. I didn’t remember until just now”

She knew Adam didn’t forget. Still, his choice of words amused her as much as they irritated her.
“It was a short day. I don’t mind. He mentioned you have a design he wanted.”

“
I’ll be right back.” He nodded at Brody before disappearing into the office to find the design.

“
I’m going to set up,” Fallon said, and walked back to her room to set up her gear. For some stupid reason she was nervous which was stupid. Maybe she should have asked him to wait for the tattoo, to give her time to build the immunity to his charm. Too late now, and this would be just like all the other sessions, she told herself.

“
Why so tense?” Brody asked from the door. She turned back to see the caution written all over him.

Taking a deep breath, she smiled weakly. She wasn’t sure how to answer. Men didn’t get under her skin
the way he did. “I don’t know what to make of you.”

He shoved his hands in his pockets.
“I’m sorry. I don’t mean to push, but I’m drawn to you. I’ll behave.” He dropped his eyes to the floor.

Damn her, but she wanted to wipe away his doubts.
“Don’t worry about it.” Feeling uncomfortable, she changed the subject. “So where do you want the tattoo?”

He cleared his throat, and glanced away
. “I always thought right here would be a good place.” He ran a finger over the hollow of his hip and she fought to keep her expression neutral. “I can change the placement if that’s awkward.” There was a blush on his face when he met her gaze.

She couldn’t help laughing.
“Brody, I’ve tattooed much more intimate parts than your hip.” Only, she hadn’t felt anything for those people. She wasn’t sure exactly what she felt, but she was feeling something she hoped faded soon.

* * * *

About an hour later, his beautiful temptress was kneeling between his thighs. Brody’s jeans were open three buttons and pushed down enough to let Fallon know he wasn’t wearing a damned thing underneath. He felt a little guilty for that, but he never bothered with underwear and hadn’t really considered having the tattoo done so soon, not until Adam told him about Slater and the other enforcers coming in for their tattoos. He shouldn’t have been jealous. But he was, and in a big way.

Fallon was wreaking hell on his self-control as he stared down at her. The way she held h
er full bottom lip in her teeth and how her eyes narrowed in on her work was really fucking sexy. The way her hand framed the piece drove him crazy, as her breath danced across his skin. He had to think of mutilated animals and dead babies to keep from getting hard, especially when her hands were right
there
. He knew Tomahawk was standing in the room but his eyes were locked on her.

“
Fallon,” Tom said, “I think I need you to put a panther just a little further down and more toward center.” Brody wanted to beat that idea out of the shaman.

She rolled her eyes.
“You already have a panther on your arm. You’ll look like a dumbass if you add another.” Her voice had a sultry rasp Brody could listen to all night.

“
I can come up with another design,” Tom teased.

Brody shot him a look.
“I thought you had a fox there. You said something about that being Darla’s animal.”

“
Oh, yeah.” Tom chuckled.

“
Don’t worry. I know Tom’s full of shit.” Fallon winked at Brody.

Tom laughed
. “So, Dakota says you aren’t a healer. I thought all druids were healers?”

Fallon laughed.
“No. Though, most heal better than I can. There are a few druids who heal as well as your brother. But why are you asking? You’re a shaman and you can’t do what Dakota does.”

“
Good point. I just figured with the wards you do, you would be able to heal.”

“
You ward, but you don’t heal.” Fallon shrugged.

“
I can’t do anything close to what you do.”

“
Our magic is different, but what you do is pretty much the opposite of what your twin does.”

Brody looked up at Tom.

The prick arched one brow and switched gears. “I can just see you at Stonehenge on the Solstice.”

Brody caught a flash of emerald when she rolled her eyes.
“No. I’m not one of those druids who braid wildflowers into my hair and dances naked in the moonlight with a bunch of women. So you can get that image out of your head.”

“
Oh, I bet you were a hippie though. Did you go to Woodstock?”

She laughed
and her breath skated across Brody’s belly. He had to bite back a groan. “Yes.” Her eyes cut over to Tom and back to her work. “Fine, you can picture me naked and dancing there, but with a ton of other people. Oh, don’t forget, I was covered in mud. I didn’t have as many tattoos, and my hair was ridiculously long.”

“
I bet you were a hit with the bands,” Tom snickered.

Another
of Fallon’s laughs tickled his senses. “I was too busy living the music to be a groupie. You should have seen Sweetwater, or maybe Santana, and Janis Joplin was amazing. Oh, can’t forget Hendrix. Goddess, I saw so many great performances.”