"How much longer do we have to wait?" Mia's impatience floats out in a whisper while we're sitting on the couch pretending to watch TV. Amber left the room to get ready for bed about five minutes ago, so it's gotta be happening soon.

"Shouldn't be long now," I tell Mia. "Just try to relax and wait for it. It'll be worth it."

The minutes pass slower when you're six years old and I feel for her. But then, she also needs to learn patience, especially when it comes to mischief.

Her voice stays low when she speaks up again, "You think she's gonna be mad?"

"Not as mad as we were when she made us try those dog food muffins she made."

Mia nods. "True. She's had this coming."

"She really has."

Maybe I should explain.

Amber, Mia, and I have been locked up in a game of prank wars for about a week now and it's gotten pretty intense. It all started when Amber served us frozen bowls of cereal last Monday.

That's right, frozen cereal.

It looked just like the real thing. Sugary Frosted Flakes, the perfect amount of milk, and a spoon already in the bowl.

She put Mia's prepared cereal in front of her, the same way she does on any other morning when we're a little rushed and don't have time to let Mia practice her pouring skills. That learning experience is never worth the spilled milk seeping into the floor when you're already late. We figured that out the hard way.

But then she put a bowl in front of me, too. And while serving a grown man a bowl of cereal should have tipped me off right away, I brushed it off. I was too taken by her sweetness, the way I always am. The fact that it was cereal, something I'm perfectly capable of making myself, may have been a little off but the act of kindness was just Amber. Her sweet and giving heart led me astray. I was tricked.

Mia and I reached for our spoons, only to have our entire bowls come up when we went to take a bite. And after registering the frigid temperature of the spoons, combined with the fact that there was no mess whatsoever when the bowls lifted from the table, we realized we'd been bamboozled.

Mia and I rallied and the rest is history.

The last few days have been a blur of fake snakes, toilet paper shenanigans, balloons full of jello, confetti bombs, and about every other messy, stupid prank we could muster up in our back and forth game.

It was all good fun. That is, until Amber made chocolate muffins yesterday with a scoop of special ingredients in the form of Stella's dog food.

A line was drawn.

When the faint sound of running water hits our ears, Mia and I turn our heads eagerly in the direction of the hallway. A tiny snort laugh comes out of her mouth and her laugh makes me laugh. She's been so excited about this one. We both are. However, as the seconds pass slowly and bring us closer to the big moment, I can't deny being a little afraid. Amber's not going to be happy.

The next thing we hear is the gagging.

"What the hell is this?"

Got her.

We overhear a bout of furious spitting and water slurping as she rinses her mouth in the bathroom sink. I reach down and put my hands over Mia's ears, sheltering her from what I know will be an onslaught of grown up words and a fury of anger. Born of shock, nurtured by defeat. This was the best one yet.

"What the actual fuck, Tommy? Are you shitting me right now?"

I stifle a laugh and keep my voice even. "Language, baby."

A door slams, bare feet rush along the hardwood floors.

Here she comes. A vision of beauty in short pajama shorts and one of my t-shirts. Fresh face, messy bun on top of her head, and a scowl that only makes her more fucking cute.

"What is this?" she asks, holding up the new tube of toothpaste I just left on the bathroom sink.

Mia busts out laughing so hard she falls off the couch. "We got you, Mommy."

"It's Prank Paste," I casually inform, reaching down to give my partner in crime a well deserved high five.

Amber busts out in some kind of half laugh, half pouting fit as she succumbs to the hilarity. "But what flavor is it? It tastes so foul and I can't put my finger on what it is and it's making it so much worse. I can't get the taste out of my mouth, it's invading my nostrils."

I stand up and close the distance between us, my arms crossing over my chest as a smug grin crawls across my face. "It's doing exactly what it's supposed to do, Amber. That's your punishment for feeding us dog food yesterday."

Her mouth drops open. "My punishment?" she drawls out, shaking her head. But then she smiles. And it's an evil smile. She takes a step closer to me and her voice drops low so only I can hear. "Thomas Sallow, you are going to pay for that."

Oh, pulling out my government name. If only she knew how little of a threat that actually sounded like. If only she knew how much it turns me on to hear my full name fall out from between her lips. Maybe she'll find out tonight.

I give her a smirk. "Is that a promise?"

Her chest rises and falls with a deep breath as she pauses, her eyes glued to mine. She's never been able to resist the charm of my oceany blue eyes. Or my sarcastic mouth.

Aggravated, she looks away and lets out a frustrated groan. "I can't believe you two. Don't think for a second that this is over."

._._._.

Amber never gives an empty threat. When she said last night that this wasn't over, she meant it. She really fucking meant it. That's why I'm staring at my reflection in the rearview mirror of my cruiser right now, shaking my head at the faint remnants of a marker mustache still visible above my mouth. Washable markers, my ass.

That's right, she got me with a marker last night while I slept, in my most vulnerable state. The betrayal goes deep. And the revenge goes deeper.

It's so on.

I've got a couple hours left on my shift and I'm currently tucked into a parking lot off the beaten path near a main road with my radar ready and raring to go. Time to catch some unsuspecting fools going a little too fast as they enter town.

It's a speed trap. I'm monitoring a speed trap today. I don't love this part of the job but hey, someone's gotta do it.

My mind is busy though. I'm ashamed to admit that I'm distracted thinking of ways to get Amber back for this damn marker mustache. I look ridiculous. Most of it came off with soap and water this morning but with the faintest line still lingering, no one would let me hear the end of it when I got to work.

I could execute something similar, draw on her and give her a taste of her own medicine after what she did, but I really need to be more creative here. I thought about putting a kool-aid pack in her shampoo but that's a bit too far and I don't feel like dying.

Shit. Why can't I think of anything good? I feel like Mia and I already pulled the best ones. But there has to be something I can do.

The radar beeps on the dash, picking up a car going seven over the speed limit as it passes me. I'm itching for something to do, something to help me refocus on work. Maybe performing my actual duties will help clear my head so I can think better about what I'm gonna do to Amber.

I'm about to take off and throw my lights on but change my mind at the last minute. The driver spotted me and slowed down a touch so it's really not worth it. Besides, I refuse to pull over some poor sap going seven over on their way home from work. That's lame.

The next car that passes is going the speed limit, maybe even under because it's going slow enough that I'm able to get a nice, long look at it. It's a cherry red Impala, just like Amber's car. See? She's so deep in my head space, I'm seeing her everywhere.

Wait a minute.

There's a butterfly sticker on the back window of that car. Just like Amber's. Now, that can't be a coincidence, can it? It's a little early for her to be heading back home after her class but anything can happen. She could have gotten out sooner than normal.

Her car begins disappearing from my view but not before I catch a glimpse at the back of it, reminding me of that bad taillight I haven't had a chance to change since I noticed it was out a couple days ago.

I told her to take my car to school until I could replace it and I would take hers, since I just park at the station all day and go out in the patrol vehicle. But of course, she didn't listen. She loves her new, fancy red car so much, she just had to take it out today. And now she's driving around with a bad light.

Hmm. That basically makes her a criminal.

Well. Well. Fucking well. Look at this prime opportunity that just fell into my hands.

She's mine.

I pull out of my hiding spot in the parking lot and zip onto the road, my heart pumping with a renewed excitement. I can't wait to tell Mia about this.

When I get closer to Amber's car, I throw my lights on, enjoying the way her lights all flash to life as she hits her brakes. Well, all the lights except that pesky one that's out.

"That's right, baby. Pull your cute ass over," I mutter to myself, watching as she slides her car to the side of the road and comes to a stop. I follow suit behind her and climb out immediately. If I know Amber, she'll be trying to locate her paperwork right away and if I want the element of ultimate surprise, I need to get up there quick.

As I approach the car, the window's down already and, just like I predicted, Amber's leaning over the passenger seat and raiding her glovebox. She sounds just slightly panicked as she mutters under her breath and I have to hold my laughter so I don't blow it.

"Stupid taillight," she scolds softly to herself. "Stupid, stupid taillight."

Why is she so fucking cute?

I want to keep watching her in the adorable frazzle she's in but it's now or never. I can't blow this. Mia is counting on me.

I tap my hand against the top of her car. "Hands behind your head."

She shrieks from the sudden sound of my voice and her head turns, fast as lightning. I wish I had a camera to catch this priceless look on her face but I know it will be chiseled into my memory anyway.

Holy shit, that was awesome.

Amber's shoulders sink in relief and she sighs. "Tommy Sallow, you scared the shit out of me."

I ignore the familiar tone of her greeting, keeping this moment all business for now. "Are you aware that you have a taillight out, ma'am?"

Her eyebrows push together and her long brown hair falls to one side as she tilts her head at me. "Is this your idea of a joke?" she asks and then her eyes widen. "Oh my gosh, is this your idea of a prank? This crosses a line, Tommy."

Smirk time. And it's a deviant one. "License and registration please."

She takes a deep, concentrated breath. I can tell she's trying to keep her face straight but I don't miss the amused little glimmer of a smile on her lips. "You've got to be kidding me," she mumbles, handing over the papers she just collected. After that, she looks forward, avoiding my eyes as she huffs and puffs in irritation.

"You're going to pay for this," she informs me, repeating her threat from last night. Before she drew on my face.

I clear my throat to avoid laughing. "It looks like the only one paying for anything is going to be you, ma'am. Your vehicle is in violation."

"My vehicle is in..." She doesn't even finish her thought, the shock and disbelief in her voice is evident. Crossing her arms over her chest, she stares me down, those caramel swirls doing something to my chest.

I finally laugh, can't keep it in anymore. Since I'm not really writing her a ticket, this "prank" is lacking the full effect of revenge. But that pure shock and her little attitude problem made this interaction well worth it.

"You should see your face, Amber."

"You're such an ass," she laughs but that slice of irritation on her voice still bites. "I can't believe you took it this far. This has to end, Tommy."

I lean down to get a better look inside her car and at her pretty face. First I blow her a kiss and then I send her a smile as sweet as candy. "Not a chance, baby. We're just getting warmed up."

Her voice is a warning. "Tommy..."

I stand up, tap the roof of her car again. "Have a nice evening, ma'am."

"This isn't over!" she yells as I walk back to my cruiser, feeling pretty good about getting the best of this exchange. "This ends tonight!"

Her words carry down the road and I can't help smiling, almost looking forward to whatever she comes up with next.

Bring it on.

._._._.

It's quiet. Too quiet. Suspicious quiet.

Especially after the events of earlier today, which basically makes this is a watch your back quiet.

I'm leaving Mia's room after reading her a book. She passed out halfway through, exhausted from an evening out back playing ball. I grow more and more proud of her skills and perseverance every day. That kid's going places.

My footsteps are slow, cautious, as I make my way down to the hall, pausing outside of mine and Amber's bedroom door. I feel like I should take a few seconds to prepare myself.

"I can see your shadow under the door, Tommy," I hear Amber say from inside. "Are you coming in or not?"

I exhale a laugh, feeling ridiculous as I push through the door.

And then I die.

No, not really. But I might pass the fuck out from the view of Amber standing in front of the bed. Butt naked, holding a pair of handcuffs.

"Hands above your head," she says, her voice dripping with confidence, a sexiness that makes my whole body freeze in place.

Fuck. If this is what revenge looks like, I'm here for it. Do your worst.

I take a step toward her but she throws a hand up to stop me from getting any closer.

"Right there is fine," she says and I stop dead in my tracks. The force in her voice comes out with the slightest hint of sultry fire in it and my cock twitches in my pants.

"I have a proposition for you, Tommy." She takes slow steps toward me and my breathing picks up, heart racing in my chest. But before I can get too excited at her close proximity, she breezes right by me and goes straight to the door. I stay where I am and listen to the click of the lock. "It involves this little game you've been playing," she adds, making her way back around me.

I stand there, immobilized and with a tightness in my throat that keeps me from saying anything. I'm at her mercy. All I can do is watch her graceful and toned figure as she starts pacing in front of me, teasing me. Fucking me the heated look in her eyes.

Her hair flows down her back in pretty waves and her skin is glowing in the soft lamp light. I want to touch her, taste every part of her. I'm literally licking my lips as my eyes trail down her body, her perky breasts calling for my mouth as they bounce a little with every step she takes around the room.

Her eyes stay pinned to mine with a whole lot of satisfaction. She knows I want to devour her.

Closing the distance between us, she finally steps in front of me, close enough to touch but she doesn't let me. Her hand comes out again, resting on my chest and applying a bit of pressure to keep me where I am.

Come on, baby. Let me have you.

"Call off the prank wars," she insists, using her free arm to cover her beautiful tits. She's getting me good. I almost cry out in protest. But instead, I make my best attempt to hold my ground, knowing I need to take back control of this situation.

"Can't do that," I respond curtly. "I have to consult my colleague on the matter."

Her eyebrows rise to the ceiling. "Excuse me, your colleague?" she asks, disbelief rippling through her words. "You mean Mia?"

"Yep. I can't make any decisions without my partner in crime."

She sighs and I can tell she's irritated that I'm fighting back, feeling her upper hand slipping through her fingers. Although I hardly know what she's worried about. I mean, she's fucking naked. Even if she's planning on leaving me with blue balls as punishment, I'd surrender it all right now for a damn tongue kiss at this point.

No. Stop it, Sallow. You've got this. Stand strong.

I lift her hand from my chest and move closer to her, taking small steps forward that force her to walk backward. I've totally got this.

When we reach the bed and her legs hit the back of the mattress, she sits down. Her smile hits me right in the guts as she stares up at me, big caramelly doe eyes of pure innocence. My own eyes shift down to the hand she's holding the cuffs in.

"What are you planning on doing with those?" I ask, looking back up at her. "You gonna let me put them on you again? Is that my reward for giving in and calling off the prank wars?"

She exhales a small laugh and there's a lick of arrogance in it. "Oh, Tommy," she whispers, holding my eyes. My name on her tongue and the soft brush of her fingers as she touches my hand has me unraveling fast, completely distracted. I can't wait to fuck this girl into tomorrow.

"Not a chance," she spouts off all of a sudden and I feel her hand wrap around my forearm with unexpected force, holding me in place.

With another lighting fast movement, one side of the cuffs is latched around my wrist and the other is fastened to the bed. I've been caught. Literally. And from where I'm standing, there's really nowhere to move. I can't sit on the bed without twisting my arm all funny and the nightstand sits behind me. I'm trapped in a standing position like an idiot.

My free arm extends to grab at Amber but she takes two steps back, just out of reach.

"Call off the prank wars," she requests again, that arrogance from before mixing with pure amusement at the predicament she's put me in.

"No," I counter back, just to be an ass. I can't believe she's got me hooked to the bed like this. What was I thinking? How did this happen?

Don't answer that. I know how this happened.

I'm weak. I let it happen. I practically begged for it, unable to keep focused on the mission with her tight, hot body prancing around the room.

"No?" she questions, her eyes filling with some unwarranted glint of victory.

I did say no, right? I think I said no. I'm distracted. 

She's now positioned herself on the bed, standing on her knees as she inches closer to me, one little nudge at a time. "I don't think you're in any kind of position to say no, Officer Sallow."

Closer and closer.

Just a breath away. I could reach out and touch her with my free hand but I won't. The moment I feel that silky skin of hers, I'm done. And I will not cave.

I just won't.

Not even when the rocky peaks of her tits start grazing my chest, sending very mixed signals between my head and my dick. Will power, Tommy. You've still got this.

Her face comes closer to mine, that mouth of hers resting against my ear. "All you have to do is say it's off. Wave that white flag," her breath trickles down my neck as her hands slide up my shirt, feeling their way around. "Call it off, Tommy."

Holy fuck, her hands feel like butter.

Hold it together, Sallow. It's not the pranks, it's the principle.

"Sorry, baby. Just can't do it."

At my stout refusal, she pushes herself off of me, leaving cold air in her absence as she falls back onto her knees. Her shoulders slump a bit and that bottom lip of hers falls out. The view about does me in.

Pouting. She's actually pouting right now. And fuck me, I want to pull that lip of hers between my teeth.

Thing is, I know what she's doing. She's changing game strategy, strumming my fucking heartstrings now. It's unfair but so fucking cute, I'm mesmerized. Her pretty brown hair is falling around her face, sweeping gently over the tops of those round breasts I've been aching to play with, to taste. And if that's not enough, she's parted her knees just enough to let me see that pink bud she knows I'm dying to suck on.

She's not just playing the sulking card, she's playing all of them.

Well played, Amber. Well. Fucking. Played.

A breathy sigh pours from her lips next and just like that, I'm out.

"Alright," I exhale. "Pranks are off. I'm officially waving my white flag."

Her eyes shoot up, that smile beaming across a victorious face. Yeah, sulking my ass.

"Really? I won?" She jumps a little and my eyes fall to her chest but quickly land back on that joyous face of hers. This moment right here, her pure excitement over this victory is worth the very tight strain in my pants.

She's adorable. Beautiful. Sexy. Elegant. And all fucking mine.

"Yes, baby, you won. Now can we take these cuffs off?"

All of her happy dance moves subside as her eyes fall on mine, a dark shade narrowing in on me. Fuck.

"Oh," she coos, her body slowly gliding back toward mine. "I'm not done with those yet."

"You're not?" The question trips out of my mouth like I'm a damn school boy seeing boobs for the first time. Pull. It. Together. Sallow.

Her head slowly shakes from side to side as she simple mouths no. No sound, just the small round o holding shape to her lips now.

She shuffles closer and my ability to swallow has completely disappeared. I can feel the heat from her body now, her breath playing against mine. Our eyes stay locked and I feel her hands releasing the top bottom of my pants, sliding the zipper down. She moves slightly, shuffling my pants down my legs as she sinks to the floor.

I watch her as she works. Slowly, silently, removing every layer from me. So goddamn sexy in every movement. She trails her fingers up my legs, positioning herself comfortably on her knees. Those caramel swirls I love slide up to meet mine and that's where they stay, watching me as her fingers wrap around my cock. 

A small, seductive smile dances delicately across her lips just before she takes me into that perfect mouth of hers. She's the picture of bliss and I'm finished. Over. Thoroughly surrendered.

That's right, folks. The prank wars are officially done.