Caitlin remained seated, confused by what had just happened. Why did the idea of the camp freak him out? She stood and picked up the chair. Then a hand grabbed her waist and turned her around. Before she had a chance to say anything, his lips thundered down on hers, as if punishing her. Soon, it lessened and became softer, but with much passion. He pulled away and she touched her lips, barely able to breathe. She watched him leave, unable to move.

Minutes later, footsteps thundered in the dining room. "What the hell was he doing here?" Garrett said.

"We had dinner," she said quickly wiping her mouth on the napkin. She hoped to remove any evidence of the kiss.

"And?" Rage shot from his eyes like daggers and forced Caitlin to look down. Short, sharp breaths completed the picture. This angry, irate man did not exist in her world. But here he stood before her and the power to calm him did not exist. She pinched the bridge of her nose to stop the on-coming headache.

"I thought I knew you better, but I don't know you at all." His voice held disgust. "If he's the kind of man you want, then go ahead. You have my permission."

"Permission?" she said, her voice growing angry. She pointed at him as she said, "You're giving me permission. You are not my brother or my father; therefore I don't need your permission to do anything." With that last word, Caitlin looked him directly in the eyes. Her green eyes turned to stone as she clenched her teeth. "If you can't see me for the woman I am, then get out. I'll be your friend, but dammit, Garrett, I need more."

"Fine." He turned and let the screen door slam shut behind him. Footsteps never sounded on the porch steps. Scott's kiss remained on her lips and her heartbeat grew more erratic. No one had ever kissed her with such passion and desire and punishment in her life.

With her emotions on a rampage, she chose not to join Garrett. When the truck left, she retreated outside. The porch railing offered support from the emotions running rampant. Stars dotted the sky, looking like a hodge-podge; a total mess, just like her life. Answers would not be found tonight, but she asked the questions anyway. "Why does Garrett feel that he has to be my protector? Will he always see me as the little girl he watched grow?"

Arms went around her waist and she leaned against this man as if they had been a couple for years. His heartbeat remained steady while hers raced. When his lips moved to her neck, she let herself enjoy the moment. "I'm what you need. Not him. He wants only to protect you. I can love you."




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