Stolen Breath

By Mia Hoddell

My name is Zeke Lawson, but you probably know that already because everyone’s heard of me.

I’m the bad boy of Formula One.
The player.
The heartbreaker.

At least that’s what I allow people to believe.

The truth is too precious to be tarnished by reporters, and no matter what my fans think, they don’t deserve access to every detail of my life. It’s just a shame Nadine Hadley doesn’t see it that way.

She’s writing the feature every driver longs for on me—the one that can make your career. The only problem is she wants more than I’m willing to give her ... and she’s playing dirty to get it.

Flirtatious smiles, skimpy dresses, sex: Nadine is using my reputation against me, and it’s working. No man could resist her, especially when she swears not to print my story.

So now I’m in too deep.

I want her more than anything, yet falling for a journalist may cost me the one thing I vowed to protect. Although, that seems insignificant when compared to another issue I face this racing season.

Did I forget to mention someone is trying to kill me?

* Each book in the Chequered Flag series can be read as a standalone and is complete with a HEA. *

• Language: English
• Publisher: Mia Hoddell
• Release date: Dec 5, 2016
• ISBN: 9781370599332

Mia Hoddell

International bestselling author Mia Hoddell lives in the UK with her family and two cats. She spends most of her time writing or reading, loves anything romantic, and has an overactive imagination that keeps her up until the early hours of the morning.Mia has written over ten titles including her Seasons of Change series, the Chequered Flag series, the Elemental Killers series, and her standalone novels False Finder, Not Enough, and Bet On Me.Her favourite genres are contemporary romance or romantic suspense, and with an ever growing list of ideas she is trying to keep up with the speed at which her imagination generates them. She also designs book covers and banners on her website M Designs.

Book preview

ABOUT THE BOOK

My name is Zeke Lawson, but you probably know that already because everyone’s heard of me.

I’m the bad boy of Formula One.

The player.

The heartbreaker.

At least that’s what I allow people to believe.

The truth is too precious to be tarnished by reporters, and no matter what my fans think, they don’t deserve access to every detail of my life. It’s just a shame Nadine Hadley doesn’t see it that way.

She’s writing the feature every driver longs for on me—the one that can make your career. The only problem is she wants more than I’m willing to give her … and she’s playing dirty to get it.

Flirtatious smiles, skimpy dresses, sex: Nadine is using my reputation against me, and it’s working. No man could resist her, especially when she swears not to print my story.

So now I’m in too deep.

I want her more than anything, yet falling for a journalist may cost me the one thing I vowed to protect. Although, that seems insignificant when compared to another issue I face this racing season.

Did I forget to mention someone is trying to kill me?

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DEDICATION

For Melissa.

I can’t believe it’s already been a few years. It still feels like yesterday I was emailing you about possibly editing Seasons of Change—and now we’ve worked together on eight titles. Thank you for being an amazing editor, working around my crazy schedule of uncertainty, and always managing to fit me in. Without you it wouldn’t have been possible to get Zeke’s book out this year.

PROLOGUE

Zeke

The platinum band hit the table with a chink and spun on its side. I slammed my hand down on top of it to silence the irritating noise.

Curling my fingers, I scraped them over the wood until the ring was once again balled tightly in my fist.

I hung my head.

When I screwed my eyes shut, I pushed the tears to the corners. The burning drops clung to my skin as long as possible before gravity took over. They left my face as I exhaled heavily, leaving no air in my lungs to support my deflating body.

It wasn’t fair.

The heated metal bit into my skin as I tightened my grip. Any stronger and I’d have pressed it into my palm completely, but I couldn’t relinquish my hold. I stared at the back of my hand. My finger didn’t even have a tan line from where the ring had rested … that was how long I’d been able to wear it. There was nothing left behind except for the small dent, which faded quickly.

I should have been relieved because no permanent reminder meant no endless pain, right?

It meant I should be able to move on.

After all, I knew when she placed that ring on my finger it wouldn’t be there forever.

At least not for my forever.

I knew there’d come a time when I’d have to remove it.

It just came a lot fucking sooner than we expected.

Opening my eyes, I blinked against the daylight filtering in through the cracks in the blinds I’d failed to shut completely and glanced down at my hand. A small puddle had formed next to it and, unclenching my fist, I allowed my ring to fall from my grasp and into my tears. I stared down at it, my chest cracking open at everything it symbolised. There may have been no outward sign to remind me of her, but I could feel her in every beat of my heart. Each thump felt like a kick to the chest, winding me as I struggled to draw in a breath.

She should be here.

We didn’t have enough time.

There were thousands of things I wanted to do with her by my side and now they were all impossible.

She wouldn’t see me succeed in racing or be there to cheer me on.

I’d never see her smile, hear her laugh, or feel her lips again.

What gutted me most was waking up to an empty bed every morning. Her side remained cold and her scent still lingered. It had been a week and I still couldn’t find the strength to change the sheets, because each time I got a hint of her honey scent, my heart flared in memory. The smell of her perfume brought me a few seconds of happiness, where I could trick my mind into believing she was still with me. In that lazy slumber where I was half asleep, half awake, it was easy to forget.

Even if coming back into reality shattered me a little more and made my heart want to stop with hers because I had to lose her all over again, it was all I had. I relished those seconds every morning where I could believe, since her memory was the only reason I was able to pull myself out of bed. I knew she’d hate me for laying there all day, so I fought through the pain for her, though today it was too much.

It should have been her birthday and instead it was her funeral.

She was supposed to have seen her birthday. I had everything planned out after all. Her eighteenth was meant to be special, not cruelly ripped from her.

We always knew it would be touch and go, but I had hoped.

God, I’d hoped with every fibre of my being she’d live.

I hadn’t allowed myself to consider the possibility of her not reaching her birthday, even if it was the stark reality. The signs had all been there in the run up, yet no matter how much I knew in my head what was happening, my heart refused to believe her time had run out.

Everyone had accepted it but me, so the end result blindsided me.

She was gone and I was alone.

I’m eighteen and I’m a fucking widower.

CHAPTER ONE

Zeke

Seven Years Later

Maui, Hawaii

We had two weeks to kill before our next race in Monaco. Usually that meant promotion, car development, and a lot of sponsorship shit I hated taking part in, but came with the position of Formula One driver. Instead I found myself in the one place I never wanted to be.

A wedding.

I couldn’t exactly turn the invite down, though, considering it came from one of my best mates. Teo Coates was like a brother to me and I’d always loved his fiancée, Raine, like a sister. They’d been through hell to get to this point and I was truly happy for them, just not the situation.

Teo and Raine had been incredibly selective on the guest list, only including around twenty-five people. While it was common in our circle to avoid the press, it severely restricted the selection of women I had to work with. Everyone present was either unavailable or off-limits.

It fucking sucked, because what else was I meant to do besides get laid?

I leaned back against the stone wall near the edge of the dance floor in my dark corner of solitude. Nursing my scotch, I attempted to stay out of everyone’s way and not ruin the happy couple’s day as I endured the torture.

It made it worse that everything was perfect. Raine couldn’t have picked a more romantic location than Haiku Mill. It resembled something out of a fantasy with its stone walls, overgrown but well-tended greenery, and white and gold colour scheme. Everything down to the weathered gold rails lining the stone steps and the wooden chairs screamed magical when combined with the candles placed just about everywhere—even in the chandeliers hanging from the ceiling.

Although I couldn’t complain about that; the candlelight made it easier to fade into the background as Teo and Raine made their way on to the dance floor.

Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome our newlyweds, Mr. and Mrs. Coates, to the dance floor for their first dance as husband and wife, the MC announced and I grudgingly joined in with the applause.

People crowded the floor to watch as Teo led Raine into the centre and pulled her into his arms. Resting her head at his neck, she wound her arms loosely around his shoulders.

I didn’t expect a big show considering Raine’s hesitation to be in the spotlight, so it came as no surprise when they barely moved, choosing to favour swaying in each other’s embrace.

All of a sudden, Teo crouched to wrap his arms around the backs of Raine’s thighs. Lifting her up, he spun and Raine squealed. She held on to his shoulders, gazing down at him in pure adoration while Teo looked up with a matching expression.

My heart twisted painfully as I took another gulp of scotch.

When the song ended, Raine slid down Teo’s chest and raised a hand to his jaw. Her wedding ring sparkled on her finger next to the overly large engagement ring, and as she leaned in to kiss her husband, the crowd cheered.

The guests dispersed around me to join Raine and Teo on the dance floor, leaving me staring at the one person I’d really been trying to avoid all weekend: Flynn Riley.

You might want to ease up on your glass or it’s going to break. He nodded down at the now empty scotch glass I held with white knuckles. I instantly relaxed my grip, not realising it had changed while watching Teo and Raine.

Flynn chuckled at my surprise and leaned back against the wall next to me. How are you holding up?

And that, ladies and gentleman, was the reason I’d avoided him all day. The wanker knew everything and I didn’t feel like playing twenty questions with my emotions.

I’m fine. Why wouldn’t I be?

He hummed in disbelief. Sure you are. Because it’s normal to hide in the darkest corner and walk around with a frown at weddings.

I raised my glass to my lips, only to be disappointed when I remembered it was empty.

Here. Flynn held out his glass of champagne at my scowl and I took it without question to down it in one gulp. I guess we know who’s going to be the embarrassing drunk at this event.

I swallowed. Shut it.

We both stared out at the blur of colour as people spun and twirled around the floor. An awkward silence surrounded us, yet I refused to be the one to break it. I had been quite happy on my own, so if Flynn had something to say, he could bring it up. I owed him no favours.

You know, it’s okay to admit you’re struggling here, Zeke. I’ll understand if you are.

I ground my molars together. I said I’m fine, dipshit.

Fine isn’t happy.

I grunted and rested both of the glasses I held on a stone. It’s better than sad.

"I guess you won’t mind joining in with the dancing then if you really are fine. He moved to push me out into the light. Come on, sunshine."

Bastard. I slunk further into my darkened corner and away from his reach. Try it and I’m telling everyone about how you pissed yourself when you crashed last season.

Flynn folded his arms. "Mature, Zeke. Real mature."

What can I say? It’s every man for himself at these types of things.

He grumbled something I couldn’t decipher, then took his eyes off the room to glance at me. Will you at least think about leaving the shadows at some point tonight? It’s a celebration, so let your hair down, have fun, and find out who the potential hook-ups are.

Really? In this crowd? I snorted. Most of them are unavailable or off-limits. The rest have that commitment look in their eyes. No fucking way.

Isn’t it tradition for one of the groomsmen to get with the maid of honour?

I folded my arms. You mean Nadine? As in the best friend Raine happens to be protective of? If anyone’s off-limits, it’s her.

She’s been staring at you all night, even with your hiding. Just like now.

Despite my reluctance, I glanced over and found her instantly in the crowd. Though she danced with Raine’s dad, her eyes were locked on mine.

She’s a big girl who’s capable of making her own decisions, mate, Flynn said, following my line of sight.

I think you’ve had too much to drink. You know my rules: no forever girls, no commitment, and don’t shit where you eat. She breaks more than one of those, and you’re usually the first to point out my stupidity if I’m about to.

If there was anyone else worth screwing here I’d point you in their direction, but there isn’t. It’s her or no one, and I had a feeling you needed to get out of here.

I grunted and returned my gaze to the room.

All right, I get the message. At least I tried. From the corner of my eye, I saw Flynn roll his eyes and push off the wall. You’ll have to come out for more alcohol at some point I guess.

He socked me on the arm and stepped to leave.

Flynn? He glanced over his shoulder. Thanks for trying, but I’m a lost cause.

One side of his mouth quirked up. You’re not a lost—

Take these back too, will you? I held out the glasses and he flipped me the bird.

* * *

Finally, I caved. Needing another drink, I peeled myself from my corner and headed back over to the bar. Ordering my second scotch, I turned to the room and decided to take Flynn’s advice. There had to be at least one person besides Nadine I could hook up with.

I scoured the crowd, judging everyone mentally.

Raine’s parents.

Teo’s parents.

Dustin’s girl.

Not my type.

Ugly.

Too tall.

Oh, the blonde with the big tits. I perked up at the sight, wondering how Flynn could have missed her. Then she spun and a wedding ring glistened on her finger. Damn.

Somebody looks like they’re having fun. The sarcastic comment drew me from my mind, forcing me to focus on Nadine who’d sidled up beside me with a devious grin. Although I knew her through Raine, we’d only really spoken when she interviewed me on the grid for the TV channel she reported for.

Oh, I’m having a blast. I threw her a teasing grin. Can’t you tell?

"Of course. Drinking yourself silly and remaining on the periphery is exactly my idea of fun at these types of shindigs. Who needs people and dancing?"

I cocked my head to one side, studying her. For a moment, I couldn’t tell whether she was messing with me; she sounded completely serious. My thoughts precisely. Though you’re failing at ignoring people.

"Pffft, you don’t count. It’s like hiding out and talking to the pet cat at a house party."

Did you just call me a flea-ridden, lazy, and fat animal?

No, I called you a cat, but if you have a flea problem, you may want to get that checked out. It’s not normal. Her eyes wandered over my body and I angled myself away from the bar to give her a better view. When she met my eyes again, she smiled sweetly.

I couldn’t fight back the laugh and shook my head. I don’t have a flea problem.

Didn’t think so, but you have a weight problem.

My laughter ceased immediately and my jaw hung slack. You did not just call me fat.

You bet your lazy ass I did. I mean, you only sit down and drive a car for a few hours a day, right? A defiant sparkle glinted in her sapphire eyes. Her deep pink lips pulled up at the corners to reveal her teeth.

How did you get your job again if that’s what you think of drivers? I paused, pretending to think. Oh yeah, Teo helped pull some strings.

She gasped. Asshole.

You started it, princess. I leaned in so my lips hovered next to her ear. And just so you know, my body is sculpted to perfection. You can feel for yourself if you want.

She pulled away with a cheer. And there’s the cocky Zeke we all know and love! Where’ve you been all night?

Inside my head.

I gave Nadine a tight smile and glanced over my shoulder. I could feel Flynn’s eyes on me from across the room, and when he noticed me looking, he raised his glass and nodded.

Dipshit was right. Maybe Nadine is worth my time.

Uh oh, I lost you again. Nadine poked my arm to recapture my attention. Seriously? Where’ve you been? You haven’t been yourself all weekend.

You mean I haven’t fucked anyone? Because that can change at any moment, princess.

Her pupils dilated and her tongue slipped over her lips. The heated gaze only filled her eyes for a second, but then she blinked and composed herself. Well it wasn’t, but now you mention it, that’s also true.

I shrugged. I don’t do weddings; too much commitment and shit. If you’re offering a night, however …

My insides churned at the lie, yet I wasn’t drunk enough to reveal anything to Nadine. It would spread around the group faster than a bush fire in a drought if she found anything out, so I needed to divert her attention. Flirting was something I knew and it always worked.

Realising I’d retreated into my mind once more, I pulled myself back into reality in time to witness Nadine slamming a shot glass down in front of me.

Drink up!

I waved her off. You don’t need to get me drunk to sleep with you, princess.

"Way, way, way off the mark, Lawson. Grabbing my hand, she tugged me away from the bar. I want to dance and thought you needed a little courage. Though, if you want to dance sober I’m not going to argue."

The shot instantly grew in appeal. No, wait. I’ll drink it.

Too late, you’re dancing without it. She raised my arm and spun underneath it until her back rested against my chest. She settled my hand on her stomach and began grinding against me.

All protests died on my tongue with the bolt of pleasure she sent straight to my dick. I could only focus on the sway of her ass as it rubbed over my hardening length. I ground back against her, relishing in her gasp when my arousal became obvious.

Two can play at this game, princess. You wanted the old Zeke, well you got it.

I pulled Nadine back into me and dropped my mouth to her neck. My lips glided over her skin as I trailed up to her ear. I already offered to fuck you, Nadine. You didn’t need to go to these lengths to touch my dick.

She laughed, yet sounded nervous. Don’t be ridiculous.

So you don’t want me to take you back to my hotel room, strip you out of this pretty little dress, and fuck you senseless? I gyrated my hips, making sure she couldn’t miss the effect she had on me. You don’t want to feel every inch of me pounding into your sweet pussy while you claw at the mattress in pleasure and cry out my name? Because your body is telling me otherwise.

Her pulse fluttered beneath my lips, and glancing down, I noticed her nipples had started to stiffen beneath the lilac material of her dress. She swallowed hard, and when she spoke the words shook. D-don’t be an idiot.

I’ve seen the way you stare at me, Nadine. You’ve been watching me all night and you want me. Admit it. I slid my hand a little lower, settling right above where she was desperate for me to touch.

I don’t.

I chuckled into her skin. Oh, you do, princess.

Maybe I had another reason for watching you.

Sure you did, and I’m planning on joining a monastery as soon as I leave the island.

You looked lonely … Her breath hitched when I pressed my hips forward. And sad … that’s why I watched you.

I returned my lips to her ear, dropping my voice to a husky growl. Bullshit. You want me, but you’re too chicken shit to do anything about it.

Nadine whirled around in my arms. She stared at me with blazing eyes, her cheeks flushed and her lips parted. Fine, I do want you. The question is what are you going to do about it?

I wound my arms back around her, resting them above the curve of her ass. "I think a better question is what are you going to do about it? You hold all of the cards here."

She studied me for a second, no doubt trying to figure out my game. If that happened to be the case, she wouldn’t find anything since I didn’t have a game plan for once. Nadine wasn’t some random grid girl I’d never see again so she needed to be the one to make the next move.

Did I want to throw her over my shoulder and carry her back to my room? Yes.

Did I want to strip her naked and watch her writhe beneath me as I fucked her? Hell yes.

But I wouldn’t unless she said so. People could say what they liked about me, but I did have some limits.

There weren’t many, I will admit that, yet the few I had I stuck to rigorously.

Nadine pursed her lips. The desire in her eyes growing in intensity when she demanded, Okay, one night, no strings, no repeats, and no awkwardness when it’s over.

CHAPTER TWO

Nadine

What the hell was I doing, let alone thinking, by actually agreeing to his asinine plan?

I had to work with the guy for crying out loud. I’d be at every one of his races, and if he continued his winning streak I’d be interviewing him constantly.

How could I remain professional if I fucked him?

Then again, how could I not?

No woman would turn down one night with the bad boy of Formula One. The guy fuelled thousands of women’s fantasies and he’d been a constant feature in mine throughout my entire journalism degree.

One night, no strings, no repeats, and no awkwardness, Zeke repeated, his gaze never wavering from mine.

Sure you can handle it? I don’t want you falling in love with me or anything, you know. One night means one night.

You’re all the same. His lips curved. You think you can tame me, huh? There will be no falling in love on my side, princess. I can guarantee, if anything, it will be you because once you’ve received the greatest pleasure you’ve ever known you’ll be begging me for more.

Cocky bastard.

That’s not cocky, it’s a fact.

I took a deep breath. No doubt I would regret my decision in the morning, yet I figured I’d cross that bridge when I came to it. Then stop talking about it and show me.

* * *