Throttle Me (Men of Inked, #1)(58)

“You did what?”

She stood up and moved out of reach. “When he was doing my tattoo, I told him that you don’t like to share your fantasies and told him about your kidnapping thing you’ve been dying to live out.”

Jesus Christ. “Sophia, I know we’re best friends and all, but that was between you, me, and Kayden.” I took a deep breath and tried not to be angry. Sophia loved me and so did Kayden. We always talked about sex and they were the two people in the world that never judged me. Kayden was the only male that let me pick his brain on the subject and answered honestly without making me feel like an idiot. “I’m a little embarrassed here. I thank you for trying to give me what I want, but that was my secret to tell.”

“If it would’ve worked out, he would’ve knocked your socks off, babe. City is exactly the type of guy you need to be with. Don’t let this experience put doubt in that pretty little head of yours. He was a wreck, Suzy. I feel a little shitty now that I got bitchy with him. He really cares for you, my little OCD friend.”

I laughed. I always made Sophia insane with all my little quirks and lists. The woman lived life by the seat of her pants and I wanted everything planned. I had lists for my lists and I would even include her on my lists when we lived together. “I know he cares, Sophia. I saw the pain in his eyes tonight. I don’t think I’ve ever seen anyone so afraid for me before.”

I could hear the murmured voices of Kayden and City but couldn’t make out the words. “What is he saying to City?”

“You know Kayden is very protective of you. He’s just having a man to man.”

“I’m not a child, Sophia. Kayden better be nice.” I crossed my arms over my chest.

“Kayden’s always nice. They’re just chatting.” She smiled but I could see the worry on her face.

Life had become so complicated and my plans seemed to unravel before my eyes. I felt like Sophia on the rollercoaster she experienced when falling in love with Kayden. She put her hands up and screamed through the ride while I wanted to jump off and keep my feet on the ground.





Who’s the Boss?



“How in the f*ck could you let her walk outside alone?” Kayden stood toe-to-toe with me – I didn’t blame him, he cared for Suzy.

“Kayden, I know, man. I was supposed to be right behind her. Everything got f*cked up.” I kept eye contact with him. I wouldn’t show weakness, even though I knew the entire thing happened because of Kaylee and my past. My f*cking cock always caused trouble.


“Yeah, I’d say. If anything happens to her, City, I’ll kick your ass. I may look small compared to you, but I’ll crush you. Hear that shit.”

I clenched my fists, stopping myself from beating his ass right here in the hospital. I knew he wouldn’t hit me. Throwing down with Kayden would only drive a wedge between Suzy and me. I’d let him say his peace. “Got it loud and clear, Kayden. I’ll protect her with my life.”

“I know you didn’t mean for any of it to happen, City, but I expect more.” He stepped back. “She’s like a sister to me. Just protect her and we won’t have an issue. I don’t want to be a dick, but I had to tell you that you f*cked up.”

“I know and I will, Kayden. I’m happy that you love her and you’ll look out for her if I’m not around. I know I f*cked up and I’ll do everything in my power to make it up to her.”

“Are you planning on breaking her heart, man?” he crossed his arms over his chest and stared. “If this shit is just a game to you then you need to end it now.”

“Fuck no, but I don’t know where her head is right now.” I rubbed my eyes, exhausted from the events of tonight.

“Don’t give her a choice, City. She’s quick to overthink everything. She needs a little push sometimes.”

“I’m happy to show her the way. Are we good, man?” I asked. “I need to get back to her.”

“Yeah we’re good.” He held out his hand to me in good faith.

“Thanks, man.” I shook his hand.

I walked through the curtain to the girls whispering on the bed. “Hey ladies,” Kayden said behind me. “Suzy, how are you, love?” he walked in front of me and stood next to her bed.

I stood at the foot of the bed and watched them as they interacted. They were a family, anyone could see that. There was a love and a shared past that brought them together. They chatted, as I stood there transfixed. Suzy looked battered with bruises and a split lip. It would take forever for the effects to fade from her beautiful face.

“We have a room ready for you,” a nurse said as she entered the small space.

“Oh, great,” Sophia said.

“We better head home, Suzy. Sleep well and we’ll stop by tomorrow to see you.” She kissed Suzy on the cheek and Kayden did the same.

“Night, Suzy.” Kayden turned to me. “City, make sure she’s okay tonight. Don’t leave her alone,” Kayden said before he wrapped his arm around Sophia.

“I wouldn’t be anywhere else, Kayden.”

“I love you guys. City will take good care of me. Go home, Jett will be up soon.”

“Bye, love,” Sophia said before they walked out.