Love You More

Love You

More

By

JUNE KRAMIN

Love You More

By June Kramin

Copyright © 2022 by June Kramin

…

All Rights Reserved. Except as permitted under the U.S. Copyright Act of 1976, no part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, or stored in a database or retrieval system, without prior written permission of the publisher.

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This book is a work of fiction. While references may be made to actual places or events, the names, characters, incidents, and locations within are from the author’s imagination and are not a resemblance to actual living or dead persons, businesses, or events. Any similarity is coincidental.

Published by Pau Hana Books

June 2022

This book is licensed to the original purchaser only. Duplication or distribution via any means is illegal and a violation of International Copyright Law, subject to criminal prosecution and upon conviction, fines and/or imprisonment. No part of this book can be reproduced or sold by any person or business without the express permission of the publisher.

ISBN: 978-0463209233

Published in the United States of America

Photo credit: Nova Lynne Photography

For Shy and Matt

Love you Moore

And Cindy. Your eyeballs were more appreciated than you know. <3

Table of Contents

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

Chapter 24

Chapter 25

About the Author

Chapter One

Finley took an extra minute at the sink after tying her silk robe. She dabbed just a touch of Rory’s favorite perfume at her neck and turned off the light. When she’d reached the bedroom, Rory was on his back, already under the covers. She ditched the robe, climbed in, scooted over to him, reached down, and rested her hand where he normally would have sucked in a deep breath at her touch.

Instead, he grasped her hand and moved it away. I’m sorry, babe. I’m really beat. I’ll make it up to you, I promise.

She rolled to her back with a sigh. That’s okay. I’m just really not ready for bed, though. I’ll try not to wake you when I come back in. After getting out, she leaned over and kissed his forehead. I love you.

He rolled to his side without a word.

Finley pulled her robe back on and wandered out to the kitchen. She opened the fridge where a bottle of white merlot called her name, then she closed it with a No. Tea would be better than a glass of wine, but she didn’t want to bother with heating water. The new, expensive machine Rory bought was noisy. Changing her mind about the wine, she pulled a bottle of red out of the rack then dug in a drawer for a corkscrew. They had an overpriced electric one, but again she thought about the noise. By the time she found a regular corkscrew, she’d changed her mind and just left it by the bottle.

Unsettled about what to do, she headed to the living room to the TV. Once there, she decided a book would be a better idea, so she changed her path and detoured to the den. After catching a glimpse of the night sky through the glass doors, she once again changed her mind on the way and headed for the back deck.

Their property was secluded, surrounded with trees of all types, and donned a lake-front view. Rory always had to have the best. He’d designed the house himself and every aspect of it was amazing.

She had been leaning against the railing for at least ten minutes, marveling at the cloudless night. So far there had been two shooting stars. The sounds of the Loons on their lake never got old. Spring had finally arrived in Minnesota and the nights were getting warmer, but there were bound to be a few more surprise cold nights. There always were a few this time of year.

No sex tonight, but I guess this is what content feels like. Finley smiled and wrapped her arms around herself. Suddenly feeling a presence behind her, she spun around.

Rory was standing there, now dressed in jeans and a t-shirt. There was just enough light to enjoy his handsome smile. He held up the bottle of wine she’d abandoned in one hand, and two glasses already filled in the other.

Finley smiled wide. I thought you were tired.

He closed the gap between them, gave her a gentle kiss, and handed her the glass. How could I possibly stay away from you?

You were doing a good job of faking it, she said with a smile. Thanks for this. You read my mind. I’ve been standing here, wanting to get a glass. I keep trying to talk myself out of it.

Don’t torture yourself, Fin.

Her head tilted. Fin?

He smirked, then gently kissed her. Finley. Baby. Babe. Sweetheart. Love of my life. He put his glass and the bottle down and held her by the hips. Goddamn, you’re beautiful. His lips claimed hers again as he kissed her possessively.

When they parted, she smiled. What’s with you tonight all of a sudden? Not that I’m complaining.

I’m just crazy about you. Sue me. He led her backward to the wicker patio couch and sat, pulling her with him.

She straddled his lap, reached for his glass, and handed it to him. Here’s to you not being tired anymore.

He grinned. I’ll drink to that.

They shared a few sips in silence, then Finley ground herself against him. Hmmm…you are full of energy all of a sudden, aren’t you?

You’re wearing next to nothing. How can I not get excited?

Why did you get dressed? It’s usually boxer hour for you.

He shrugged. We can take care of that easily enough if you’re going to be a bully about it. Rory gave her a quick kiss before he took their glasses and placed them back on the table.

Finley wasted no time removing his shirt. She let her lips wander over his perfect chest.

It sure is a nice night out. Rory moaned between the words as her kisses roamed over him.

After giving his nipples a few flicks with her tongue, she sat up and met his lips with yet another kiss. Do you really want to talk about the weather?

Rory laughed. No, babe, I don’t. He untied her robe, let it fall, and took her bare breasts in his hands, then leaned down and gave each one a kiss. Jesus, Fin. You’re perfect. He spent a few more seconds giving each one proper attention before returning to her lips.

She quivered and let out a moan. If I don’t have you right now, I’m going to explode. She unbuttoned his pants, but his hands quickly covered hers. What’s the matter? She nuzzled into his neck, kissed her way up, and nibbled at his ear.

Mmmm…absolutely nothing. His hands fell away.

Finley unzipped his jeans and wrapped a hand around him. I’d say. She gave him a few gentle strokes as she tugged at his jeans with her other hand.

He pulled her to his chest and held her hips firmly in place. Baby… wait.

I want you, Rory. Wait for what? she purred into his neck.

He groaned. Uh…nothing, babe. He scooted his jeans down a bit more, and she wasted no time claiming him. Rory held her face and pulled her to him for deep kisses, not holding back being vocal about his pleasure. After a few moments, he stood with her and placed her on the couch. He removed his jeans completely and continued where they’d left off, but now in charge.

The sex was hungry. Fast. Finley liked it. It wasn’t normally like Rory to be so aggressive. He was usually more conservative when it came to sex. She welcomed the change, although she’d had no complaints before. Just when she thought he was about to send her over the edge, he slowed it down, delaying the sweet torture. His lips never left her body. If he wasn’t deep in a kiss, his lips trailed down her chest and across her breasts or neck. When she couldn’t take it anymore, she begged, I want you now.

He held her tight and released into her, sending her over the edge like she’d never felt. The two of them quaked and shuddered, breathing heavy, then soft laughter.

You’re absolutely amazing, he whispered as he ran his lips down her neck once more.

If this is you tired, I’m going to have to start drugging you at night, she said with a laugh. She straightened her leg and knocked over the wine bottle. It made a loud thump, but it didn’t break. Shit.

Get it later. He nestled his head deep in her neck. How could I ever not want you?

The patio light came on. They both stood, scrambling for cover. A figure appeared in the doorway.

Finley’s eyes widened. She picked up her robe and clutched it to her chest. What the hell is this? Her eyes frantically went from the man in the doorway to the naked one beside her. Who are you? she said toward the door.

You sonofabitch! The man in the doorway stomped to Rory and punched him so hard, it sent him into the wicker chair and over the back of it.

Finley screamed. Stop it!

Babe, it’s me. That’s my fucking brother. Goddamn you, Randy. Of all the lowlife shit you’ve pulled! He stepped toward the man now scrambling for his pants but stopped and turned to Finley and held her arms. Are you okay?

She knew she had gone pale. A wave hit her from head to toe. Feeling weak, she swayed forward. Rory picked her up and hustled her to their bedroom.

Babe? Answer me. Are you okay? he asked, after placing her on the bed.

Her hand covered her face as loud gasps escaped her. She curled up in a ball.

Did he hurt you?

She shook her head.

But you had sex with him.

She nodded. You never told me… She could no longer speak.

Fuck! Rory took off.

When Rory reached the deck, his brother’s pants were on, and he was pulling his shirt over his head. He gave him a hard shove toward the couch. Randy fell into it. Rory dove on top and planted another solid punch to his chin. You fucking sonofabitch!

Randy grabbed Rory by the wrists and wrestled him to his back, pinning him there. He was always the stronger of the two. I’m sorry. I tried to stop, but I couldn’t help myself. She was kinda pushy about it. How the hell could you kick that out of bed?

Rory struggled under him. Let go of me!

You promise me no more punching.

I’ll make no such promises. You raped my girlfriend.

It wasn’t rape. She started it. And if I do say so myself, she rather enjoyed herself.

She thought you were me, asshole.

Oh, I’m pretty sure when she questioned I wasn’t.

Rory got his hand free and landed a punch again. This one square on Randy’s cheek, sending him back again. Rory landed two more before they fell to the floor, Randy once again maneuvered himself to the top and pinned Rory.

Stop it. I’d say I’m sorry if I was. I can’t believe you got that sweet thing to stay with the likes of you this long. I got tired of waiting to meet her. I didn’t mean for this to happen. I swear. I—

Randy’s body went limp against Rory’s. Confused, Rory pushed him off and found Finley standing there with the bottle of wine. She’d hit him with it.

He hustled to his feet and took her in his arms. I’m so, so sorry.

She dropped to her knees and continued to cry.

He scooped her up once again and carried her back to the bedroom.

She hadn’t let go of the bottle. Once she was sitting on the bed, she tipped it up, trying to drain the small amount that hadn’t spilled out. Why didn’t you tell me you were a twin, Rory?

Is it a wonder after what just happened?

You thought something like this would happen? she shrieked.

No! He held her tight. No! Never! It’s just…he’s been in a bad place, and we’ve rarely talked the past few years. I made it clear he wasn’t coming back into my life until he straightened his shit out. Being a twin isn’t always like what you see on TV or read in books. We’re complete opposites, always have been.

She tipped up the bottle again but got nothing. Dammit.

Are you sure he didn’t hurt you?

Finley shook her head as she wiped away a tear. She nestled her head into his chest. I thought it was you. Obviously. He wasn’t forceful just… a gasp escaped.

Shhhh, babe. I’m so sorry. A door closed and Rory stood.

Finley grabbed his hand. No. Please just stay with me. Let him go.

He kissed the top of her head and held her tight. Motherfucker. I’m gonna kill him, babe.

Not tonight you’re not. I know you’re tired…but will you shower with me?

Anything. He kissed the top of her head again and tightened his grip. I’m so sorry.

Rory worked at Finley’s back with a scrubby as the hot water ran over her from their dual showerhead, oversized shower stall.

How could such a perfect night turn so terrible? She thought maybe Rory pretending to be tired was some kind of ruse. After he came out and they made love, she thought maybe he had some plan. Propose maybe? She wasn’t sure if he was there yet, but she was. She would have said yes. Sometimes things were hot and cold, but he did love her. He had asked her to move in after dating for only six months, but his actions hadn’t changed much. He wasn’t one for public displays of affection or even overly coddling when they were alone, but he took care of her. She thought with time, he’d be more affectionate. She never pushed for the reasons and accepted what he could give her.

Despite the hot water, a chill took over her. A stranger had invaded her body. She’d only been with a handful of carefully selected men. This was unfair. She felt filthy for enjoying his touches, the lovemaking. Her insides quivered at the memory of how good it was, and it embarrassed her. She turned and cuddled into Rory, much needing his support.

How can you ever forgive me, she cried into his chest.

Me forgive you? You were attacked. By my own brother no less. I’ll spend an eternity making this up to you.

You can’t be blamed for his actions, but…

He kissed her head yet again. I won’t be asking anything of you. I know you don’t blame me, but I know there’s no way you’re going to want to be touched. I wouldn’t dream of asking anything from you. Not until you’re ready. As a matter of fact, I’m getting us out of town for a few days. I want out of this house.

She glanced up, resting her chin on his chest. And burn the patio furniture?

Exactly.

Her head returned to his chest. I can’t go now and abandon my crew. I have to finish up the house on Lyndale.

He held her face in his hands. Can you even think about work right now?

The water was cooling and losing the sanitize yourself with scalding water impact. She turned it off. I’m fine, Rory. Really. I want to just forget about this. I feel violated but running away isn’t going to help.

Killing him may, he growled as he got out and reached for towels.

No, it won’t. I don’t want any details if you’re going to hunt him down and find out what the hell possessed him to do something like this, but I don’t want to hear that name mentioned ever again.

He held her tight. I’m so sorry. If I hadn’t been so tired, this wouldn’t have happened. I don’t know why that fucking Joe James is so exhausting.

I don’t know why you even met with him. You hate that man. I hate that man. Besides your brother right now, he’s number two on my list.

I know. I guess I had to just tell him off to his face. He wouldn’t leave me alone. I don’t care what he offers me, I’m not going to his firm. He held her tight. Let’s go to bed. If you don’t want to hear about it, I won’t tell you, but I’m not letting Randy get away with this.

Chapter Two

Rory crossed the street in jeans and a white t-shirt, assessing the shabby bar. He almost never dressed so casually, but he had no intentions of even staying for a beer when Randy called, asking to meet at their old hangout. Not that this dive called for anything more attire-wise. It was bad when they used to sneak in underage, now he wondered how it managed to keep its liquor license. Less chance of the cops being called when I try to kill him.

What his brother did was inexcusable. Of all the stunts he’d pulled when they were kids, and even those that had progressed in high school, he’d never taken things this far. The girls they’d dated were off limits to the twin-stunts. Rory only agreed to meet him so he could tell him off once and for all, and maybe beat the shit out of him again.

Before he even reached the entrance, he spotted Randy in the alley with another man. They were making an exchange. Did he just buy weed? Rory huffed and joined him.

Nice, dickhead.

It’s medicinal, Randy said with a smirk as he tucked the bag in his pocket.

No wait, Rory’s pocket. He’d just noticed Randy was wearing his suit. You motherfucker. When did you steal my suit? Before or after you violated my girlfriend? Rory stepped forward, wanting to grab him by the collar and send him into the wall, but didn’t want to ruin one of his favorite thousand-dollar suits. On second thought, fuck the suit. He planted a strong punch to Randy’s chin and sent him sailing back.

Quit it! Randy shouted. Enough with the punches! I get it. I screwed up. Just give me a chance, man.

Give you a chance? A chance for what? You think you can explain away what you did? I don’t know why I’m even here except for the chance to pummel your ass again. But you know what? You’re not worth it. To think I was even considering letting you back into my life. You really had me hosed this time. Everyone back at the home was right. You will never change.

That’s not true. I have changed. Things are going great for me. Really. That’s not at all what I intended to do. I’m sorry, okay? I just couldn’t help myself. How could you turn her down when she went to you for sex, man? This is your fault. You’re wrong in the head.

My fault? You’re insufferable. You know that?

If you had manned up, she wouldn’t have been on the deck alone. I went in wanting to talk to both of you.

Fuck you. Thanks for showing your true colors again, Randy. Get the hell out of town and crawl back under whatever rock you abandoned. You can just fuck off forever and stay the hell outta my life.

Rory spun around to a tall, burly man, pointing a gun in his face. Rory held his hands high. Whoa. Easy, man. You can take whatever you want. There’s no need for the gun. He slowly moved his hand to his watch band. You can easily get five-grand for this. Take it.

Randy was now at his side. Don’t do it, man. I only have about twenty bucks, but I got weed in my pocket. It’s all yours. Don’t shoot my brother, man.

The gunman waved the gun back and forth between the two of them. With his size, the gun wasn’t necessary. He looked like he could bench press a Buick. The sleeves were cut off his shirt, revealing mountains of solid muscle. I’ll take all of it. And your wallets.

Anything you want, Rory said. We’re not going to fight you. Take all the cash, just leave my cards. They’re no good to you.

The man shoved his gun deep into Rory’s cheek. I’ll take whatever the fuck I wanna take, asshole.

Rory’s hands were high. Back pocket. Just take it and go.

The man let out a loud laugh. Couple of pretty boys show up from the rich part of the city and think you can just show your money around and get anything you want. I’m sick of it! He waved his gun in Rory’s car’s direction. You got a lot of nerve driving a Viper down here, boy.

It’s a company car, he lied. I’m not a fan of it myself. Take the keys and take it for a spin. You’ll see, it’s all hype.

Right. So you can call the cops? I ain’t stupid!

Randy stepped forward. We don’t want nothin’, man. We used to hang out around here. We were just meeting up for a couple of beers. That’s all. We don’t want any trouble.

He shoved the gun deeper into Rory’s cheek again. Shut up and hand it all over!

Don’t get trigger happy on us. Here. Rory unsnapped his watch and handed it to him.

The man hit him on the side of the head with the gun. Shut up! I said give me your wallet!

Okay! I don’t have a weapon. Don’t shoot, man. Rory slowly reached into his pocket and gave the man his wallet.

Now yours, he yelled, pointing the gun at Randy.

Here, dude! We don’t want any trouble. Take it! Randy started to hand him his wallet, then threw it at his face instead and rushed forward.

Dammit, Randy! This isn’t worth it! Let him go!

A shot fired.

Randy! No! Rory dove into the fray. It was a pile of fists and blood. A powerful punch to his eye had caused a trickle of blood to obstruct his view and he backed up a little, but Randy was still wrestling with the man. Maybe he wasn’t hit. A searing pain hit his arm as another shot cracked. Dammit, Randy! This isn’t worth our lives!

More wrestling. More punches. Two more gunshots. The man was doing more than his share of fighting the two of them. He had to be on something. He and Randy weren’t bad fighters. They’d certainly had more than their share in their youth. They should have been able to take this