Chapter 17

When the earthquake finally stopped, he opened his eyes to see Roane, sitting back on his heels, grinning like a fool. “Don’t you dare say you’re sorry that happened.”

“If I did, I’d be a lying son of a bitch. I may not quite be a connoisseur, but that was one mother of a blowjob.”

Rising to his feet, Roane swiped the soap suds off his knees. “There’s more where that came from. All you have to do is ask. I won’t force you again.” He grinned. “But I didn’t get the impression you were all that unwilling.”

Before Alden could reply, he heard a couple of vehicles drive up. Dust swirled through the open door as one stopped in front of the railroad car.

Alden hastily did up his fly and belt and dragged himself off the couch. His legs were still unsteady, but he could stand and walk. Roane grabbed the mop and went back to work. Alden returned to the table and took up his beer. He tipped it back for a good swallow just as Jack and Willie stomped in.