Nash

THE BODYGUARD: NASH

Michelle Hasker

® www.loose-id.com

Warning This e-book contains sexually explicit scenes and adult language and may be considered offensive to some readers. Loose Id® e-books are for sale to adults ONLY, as defined by the laws of the country in which you made your purchase. Please store your files wisely, where they cannot be accessed by under-aged readers.

The Bodyguard: Nash Michelle Hasker This e-book is a work of fiction. While reference might be made to actual historical events or existing locations, the names, characters, places and incidents are either the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, business establishments, events, or locales is entirely coincidental.

Published by Loose Id LLC 1802 N Carson Street, Suite 212-2924 Carson City NV 89701-1215 www.loose-id.com

Copyright © January 2008 by Michelle Hasker All rights reserved. This copy is intended for the purchaser of this e-book ONLY. No part of this e-book may be reproduced or shared in any form, including, but not limited to printing, photocopying, faxing, or emailing without prior written permission from Loose Id LLC.

ISBN 978-1-59632-606-4 Available in Adobe PDF, HTML, MobiPocket, and MS Reader

Printed in the United States of America

Editor: Crystal Esau Cover Artist: Croco Designs

Dedication For the real Victoire. Thanks for encouraging me and supporting me in my writing endeavors. Enjoy Nash -- he’s all yours, baby.

Chapter One

Seductive and intoxicating, the scent of magic filled the air. But it wasn’t the magic that called to him. It was the witch wielding it. For hundreds of years, he’d searched for his true love. And tonight, with this delectable scent, Nash knew she was nearby. There was no other explanation for his magic’s reaction to the scent. This was the closest he’d ever been. He wasn’t about to waste this chance. “You need to find your one. That way you’ll leave my wife alone.” Nash snorted and looked at Nic. “You’re the one who invited me into your bed. If you wanted me gone, all you had to do was ask. Oh, wait. You did, and I complied. It was months ago, Nic.” “Please.” Elena reached out and put a hand on each of them. “Not here in public. We’ll settle this at home.”

Whatever. I haven’t done more than flirt with Elena. Something else is bothering Nic. But what? Nash glanced across the table and studied his brother and sister-in-law. Fae and vampire. An unlikely combination, but then, he wouldn’t have predicted his own true love would be a witch.

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As he watched the two lovebirds, the scent drew closer, giving him a hard-on as he lost the ability to think straight. Nash looked out the window of the small café, hoping for a glimpse of his woman. There was only one way to know for sure if she was his true love or not. Sex. No-holds-barred sex. A tall woman with long, dark hair hesitated outside the café. She turned and looked inside. Blue-gray eyes met his and held for a long heartbeat. Nash reached out with his mind. As soon as he brushed against her mind, she looked away, frightened, and hurried away.

Shit! I scared her. “Excuse me.” Nash rose and was halfway out the door before either Nic or Elena could say anything. Nash looked both ways, but the slender beauty had vanished. Following her scent proved as much of a challenge as he was sure convincing her to sleep with him would be. As he grew closer to her, the strength of her power increased and made his dick hard. Was she using her power on someone or something? Fear permeated the air, mingling with her sweet seductive scent. Nash hurried, unable to see the woman who stirred such a deep response from him, but able to sense her well enough to track her. Hell, he sensed her so well he could probably have communicated with her telepathically. But that would most likely scare her again. When Nash passed a dumpster, she came into his view. The sight made him pause. A man approached her, menace in his every step. The beauty threw her arms out, and magic streaked from her hands, knocking the man across the alley into a brick wall. Instead of releasing the excess magic she’d summoned, she stood there, staring at the man. Power strained visibly at her fingertips, begging for release. Why the hell didn’t she release the power she was obviously struggling to control? Didn’t she understand that she’d summoned too much energy, and it needed someplace to go? Suddenly, she dropped to her knees and raised her arms to the sky.

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“Please.” She sounded scared and desperate as tears slipped down her cheeks. “Please, someone help me.” Before he knew his intent, he’d crossed the distance and placed his hands on her shoulders, sending her strength. “Let me help you.” When he whispered the words next to her ear, he felt a shiver of desire race through her. She moaned as, unguarded, her lust and magic reached for him. “Please, let me go. I don’t want to hurt you.” “It’s all right, love. You won’t hurt me.” “No.” She shook her head. “You don’t understand. I don’t understand. I’ll hurt you if you don’t let go.” “You won’t hurt me. Let me help you. Let me ease your pain.”

***** “You don’t know what you’re saying. If you don’t release me, you’ll end up dead, like that drunken idiot.” Victoire looked up at the stranger through tears. He had no idea what would happen to him if he touched her. If he thought she could control these powers, he was wrong. Dead wrong. “He’s not dead, and your power doesn’t intimidate me.” Victoire struggled against desire and the straining magic inside her. She looked up at him. His bright blue eyes held her gaze. She fell into those pools of deep blue, finding a peace in them she hadn’t known since she’d discovered she had magical powers. This man, whoever he was, called to something in her. Something primitive. Something she’d tried to subdue ever since she’d discovered these uncontrollable powers. Goddess help her, she wanted this man, no matter the cost. As they spoke, he eased through her rapidly weakening shields, letting some of her magic free. A burst of energy streaked to the ground and faded.

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“What are you doing?” Panic flared. Victoire rose and quickly backed up. “Stop it!” “I’m not trying to hurt you or weaken you. You need to release some of your pent-up magic before it hurts you.” “I don’t know what you’re talking about.” A twinge of guilt ate at her. So she lied. She had to. Even if it was obvious that he’d seen her display. “It’s okay. I have some powers myself. I don’t think you want to hurt anyone. I won’t tell anyone about you, either.” Victoire stared at him, trying to understand her fear and lust for this stranger. It wasn’t that she was afraid of him. She was afraid she’d hurt him. And the lust. Good Goddess, who wouldn’t have an instant case of the hots? The man was absolutely gorgeous. “How do you propose to help me?” “I’m going to help you release all that energy.” “How?” She narrowed her eyes and glared at him. “With sex.” She swallowed. Is this a dream? A handsome man approaching me and offering to have

sex with me so that we can release my magic. How unreal is this? “I’m serious. You’ve summoned a lot of magic, and quickly. It would take too long to teach you how to release it. If we have sex, I can absorb it from you and release it for you. I won’t hurt you, but you can see how unstable your magic is. Until you learn to control it, how can you learn to release it?” “Are you a psychopath?” He looked at her with such surprise that she released a nervous giggle. “If I were a psychopath, would I offer to help you, or just take it?” “Well, if you were me and a strange guy walked up to you and said, ‘Let’s have sex to release your magic,’ I think you’d feel the same way.”

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“I know. But you are like a beacon right now, love. Every bad guy in the area with notso-nice intentions will feel your magic and come looking for you. Why not take your chances with a good guy?” “Gee, you talk such a convincing case. I still say I can’t trust you.” As she said it, another surge of power crested. Magic snaked out of her fingertips and zapped the ground. Victoire stumbled and fell to her knees. “Dear Goddess!” “Ask your Goddess, then. Let your faith lead you.” Puzzled, she looked up at him again. That was a new line. His words struck a chord within her as she remembered what she’d prayed right before he’d appeared. She’d asked for help. Begged her Goddess to help her. Perhaps he really was the answer to her prayers. Or maybe he had lucky timing.

Dear Goddess, what should I do? Can sex really help dispel all this magic bursting through my body? The stranger walked over and knelt next to her. He put his hand on her shoulder. Immediately, she felt a sense of relief as her magic eased. Even if it was only a tiny amount, it was enough to allow her to breathe easier. If he could really help, why not have sex with him? He was the most handsome man she’d ever seen. And if it’d get rid of her magic…

***** She glanced up at him, her stormy blue-gray eyes cloudy. She was the one. As if it sensed it too, her magic strengthened, and heat flared under his touch. Without waiting for permission, he went inside her mind and searched for answers to his questions. Victoire Duramel. A bartender at The Hot Spot, a bar a few blocks north. She lived in an apartment in the Northeast and worked here both as a favor for a friend and because she enjoyed it.

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“I won’t hurt you, Vicki.” She gasped, her eyes widening as she tried half-heartedly to pull away. “How do you know my name?” “I know more than your name, love. I know who and what you are.” “What do you mean?” Her gorgeous eyes narrowed, and her hands rose to cover his. “I can sense your magic. It calls to me more than any other. If you listen to your heart, you’ll know what I say is true.” “What’s true is that every other man who’s touched me while my magic is at its strongest has paid the price. But your hands are on my shoulders, and there’s not even a flicker of pain in your eyes.” Vicki hesitated for a moment. From the way she studied him so closely, he knew she’d felt his manipulation and his power. It was obvious her magic didn’t hurt him. Would she trust him? “How does your magic normally react to other men?” “You witnessed it a few minutes ago.” “I’d say he got what he deserved.” “Maybe, but I almost killed him.” “Okay, love. But let me help you. Let me take away your pain.” Not only could he sense the pain in her, but he knew she struggled to accept the healing magic he sent her. He knew part of her wanted to tell him to go away, because she didn’t like anyone seeing her this way, but another part of her hungered for his touch. The touch that calmed the magic within her. Her mind was an open book, but he still didn’t understand why she didn’t control her magic. At least it wasn’t as violent as it had been a minute ago. “How can you help me? You don’t even know me.”

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“Your magic called to me. I felt its pull and followed it here.” Unable to resist her any longer, he brushed his lips against her ear, delighting in the shiver that raced through her body. Even though she was confused and not eager to trust him, her body did recognize him. “Oh, Goddess,” she moaned as her hands tightened on his. The sweet scent of her arousal tickled his senses, and he groaned with the knowledge that she wanted him as much as he needed her. “What’s happening to me?” “You built up too much magic, and it’s seeking release. Haven’t you been properly trained?” “What?” She looked up and gasped. Desire. Raw, hot, naked desire glowed in her eyes, and it made him harden even more in need. One minute she stood limp in his arms, the next she’d plastered her body against him, pressing her mouth to his and demanding entrance. Magic swirled up and through her as he cupped her ass and lifted her up, grinding her against his erection. Vicki rained kisses along his jaw and cheek as she slid her hands around his neck and held on tight. Even though he sensed her confusion, she didn’t try to fight the attraction or his reaction to her kisses. She acted like a woman long starved and kissed him again, trying to take control and dominate him. Not like anyone could dominate him, but with her he was tempted to pretend. “Let me help you,” he whispered, kissing his way to her ear. An answering shiver raced through her. She moaned and tightened her hold on him as she pressed even closer. “Please.” Permission granted, he wanted nothing more than to take her home and make her his in every way imaginable. He hoped she had enough energy for what he had in mind. “Hang on tight, love. We’re going for a ride.”

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Vicki held onto him as he whisked her out of the alley and into one of his homes. As he placed her on the bed, he looked around the room, hoping it didn’t overwhelm her. It was a large, masculine bedroom with mirrors on one wall and the ceiling, because he happened to enjoy watching himself make love. The four-poster bed was perfect for when he employed bondage in sex. Fortunately, his toys were safe in their cabinet. “How? What? Where are we, and how did we get here?” “You aren’t the only one with magic.” He winked as he stood there looking down at her. “Where are we?” She crawled back on the bed, inching away from him. “What’s your name?” “Nash. But you can call me Master. And we’re in my bedroom.” She gasped as if in protest, but from the way her nipples pebbled under her peasant blouse, he knew she was excited. Hell, he could smell the proof of her desire and was close to going over the edge from it. As she studied him, probably debating whether to trust him or not, he removed his clothes with a wave of his hand and stood before her, unashamed of his nakedness. “Your magic is so strong, and yet you use it effortlessly.” Nash wasn’t sure if that was a question or a comment, but the way her eyes were glued to his cock was promising. He winked at her with a smile. “If that impresses you, wait until I get in bed with you.” “What’s stopping you?” Her sudden eagerness caught him off guard. She’d kissed and touched him hungrily enough before, but he didn’t want to frighten her now that they were in his home. He couldn’t lose her now. Not when he’d finally found her. He reached for her mentally and smiled. Her desire was genuine. She had some doubts, but was desperate to trust him. He realized this wasn’t the first time her powers had gotten this bad. By reading her mind, he’d

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found that this wasn’t the first man to lie in wait and attack her. Something was very wrong, but he didn’t want to scare her. He wanted to reassure her. “I need to know this is what you want. I won’t take advantage of you, no matter how desirable I find you.” Victoire growled. “I want you. Now get on the bed.” “Say, ‘I want you, Nash.’ I want to hear you say my name.” “I want you, Nash.” Vicki rose on her hands and knees and crawled toward him. Magic still coursed through her body, stronger since he’d stopped touching her. Whoever her teacher was, he was going to pay a visit to the person and take her to task. “Please, Nash.” She trembled as she reached for him, and some of her magic slipped free, shooting like lightning toward the ceiling. Vicki gasped and fell back on the bed, staring at the mark left on his mirror. “It’s okay, love. I’ve got you.” Nash wrapped his arms around her, pulling her close as a sob escaped. “That could have been you.” “I wish it was,” he said in a soft whisper, his breath brushing against her ear. “I didn’t want to redecorate in here. I like the mirrors.” “Don’t joke!” She pushed at him. “It’s all right, sweetling. I can handle anything you throw at me. I’m an ancient.” Vicki looked startled at his comment, but before he could explain, her power surged again, even stronger than before, and she cried out. There wasn’t time for the seduction he’d have preferred to give her. “Easy, it’s okay,” he whispered as he rubbed her back and made her clothes vanish. His bare hands on her skin sent a shiver of pleasure through him. Before she could protest that he’d removed her clothes, he pressed her down on the bed and covered her mouth with his.

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Nash pressed against her, his cock hard and hot against her belly. He cradled her head with one hand and slid the other down her shoulder and arm, trying to soothe and arouse her. “When you summon magic, you need to use it or release it,” he said as he spread kisses down her throat. He pinched her nipple between his teeth and then soothed it with his tongue. “Nash!” She gave a strangled cry and buried her hands in his hair. With the mind connection he’d established a little bit ago, he felt pleasure spike through her until her whole body was alive and tingling. He could feel her need for release increase. The release he’d promised to give, but had yet to deliver. “Nash,” she moaned and arched under him. “Please. I can’t fight it much longer.” “Surrender, Vicki. Surrender to me and your magic. Free yourself,” he said as he licked his way down her stomach. “It’s too much!” she shouted, writhing under him as the magic and desire hummed through her. “I can’t control it.” “Don’t.” He grabbed her ankles and pulled her legs apart. When she didn’t protest, he used his magic to hold her there while he moved back up and caressed her breasts. She moaned and turned her head from side to side. “That feels so good. My magic responds to you.” “I know. And so do you.” He grinned and used more magic to grab her wrists and pin them to the bed as he lowered his head to her stomach and teased her belly button. “What the hell?” She struggled against him, her breathing labored. Nash sensed her panic and tried to soothe her, but he didn’t know what caused her to fight against his magic. His magic.

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“It’s me, love. My magic. You’ve had a taste of it when we transported here. I didn’t think you’d be opposed to a little more.” “You…you’re…” She tried to speak, even though she still struggled to breathe. He pulled back his magic all at once, so every hand, invisible or not, released her. He leaned back on his heels, praying she let him continue. If she didn’t, he’d explode from need or do something he’d end up regretting. “What are you doing?” She sat up and reached for him. “I wanted to show you it was me, nothing else.” She hesitated for only a second as she stared into his eyes. His erection strained at attention. Her magic flared so strong he’d have felt it even if he were human. “Okay.” She nodded. “Do it again.” “Are you sure?” “I want you, your magic, whatever. Just help me, dammit!” Nash chuckled, and at once he unleashed his magic so all the invisible hands latched onto her again. Her wrists and ankles were restrained with his magic, and her legs pushed wide apart by his hands as he knelt between them. More invisible hands kneaded her breasts as he pressed his mouth on her clit. When he flicked his tongue against the taut nub, she arched, crying out breathlessly as he teased her with his hands, mouth, and magic. When her orgasm swept over her, he felt it too. The sensation made his cock tense, and he was afraid he’d lose it right then and there. Even more so as some of her magic danced over his skin. He drew in a deep breath and pulled on more of the magic, but stopped because he almost came. The fact that he was fae and could be ready for more almost immediately meant nothing. He wanted to come in her. Ignoring his own needs, Nash sucked on her clit and dipped his fingers into her sheath. Vicki growled and bucked under him. “I want to touch you, dammit.” “Sorry, love. Until we release some more of this magic, I’m afraid I can’t let you.”

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***** “Can’t let me?” Indignation and fury rushed through her, competing with the delicious tingling sensation he’d created with his mouth. She stared down at the top of his head, at all that glorious, thick black hair she wanted to fist her hands in. As a tingling began to spread through her body, she could feel her magic gathering low in her belly. With another man, she’d have worried it would kill him, but with Nash, she knew he could handle it and more. She wanted to find out just how much. “You taste divine.” Nash grinned as he rose over her. “More,” she pleaded as the magic protested at his withdrawal. “I’m going to give you as much as you can take and then some,” he promised as he pressed the tip of his cock against her. Hunger and pleasure whipped through her, fueling the magic. It grew stronger with each passing second, and she knew if he didn’t give her another release soon, it would consume her. He closed his eyes, and a look of pure ecstasy filled his face as he slid into her. She tried to lift her hips to draw him in deeper, but his magic kept her in place. Vicki growled in frustration, then hissed in pleasure as he filled her completely. Her body shook violently from the effort it took to try and break free of Nash’s hold, but his magic was stronger than hers and held her still. “Nash,” she growled and tried to thrust her hips into him. “Please. Oh, please.” “Yes, love.” He pulled back until just the tip of his cock remained inside, then he slid back in, fast and hard. Again and again he withdrew and rammed deep inside, striking an answering chord in her soul as her magic hummed in delight. “Nash,” she gasped. Her entire body tensed. She clawed for release. It was so close, but his magic held, and she thrashed under him in frustration.

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As if he knew she couldn’t take any more, he began to move harder and faster, fingers pinching at her nipples as an invisible mouth latched onto her clit. Vicki screamed as she shattered, magic streaming out of her body as the orgasm released her pent-up energies. She took several shaky breaths before she opened her eyes. Nash remained still, buried deep inside her, watching her. And he was still hard. “Didn’t you come?” “Yes, I did. But I need you again. And I will probably need you over and over again. I hope you don’t mind spending the night.” “For sex like this?” She sighed and enjoyed the aftershocks rumbling through her body.

For sex like this, I could stay for an eternity. One at a time, the hands released her. She wrapped her arms around him, pulling him close. Nash nuzzled her neck as she waited for the feeling to return to her legs. “Damn, that was good.” “Want an encore?” She laughed as his lips tickled her throat. “Yeah. Although you feel like you’re hard, I don’t want to wear you out. Guys can’t come and then go for round two immediately.” “You’d be surprised,” he said as he shifted and pulled out, then slid back in. Tingles raced up her spine as he filled her once more. “Shit.” “So, do you want an encore?” Vicki stared at him breathlessly. Like she’d say no to another earth-shattering orgasm. Without the magic threatening to overpower her, this time she was able to breathe and think. The desire was still there and as strong as before. “Vicki?” His husky voice sent a rush of shivers through her. “If you don’t want to --” She grinned and tightened around him as she locked her legs behind him. “Oh, I want to. Too much.”

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“Mmm. You feel it just like I do.” “Oh, yeah, I feel it. Quite impressive too. Why don’t you stop talking and put it to some good use?” She giggled as he frowned, his eyebrows furrowing as if he was confused. “I’m glad to see you are feeling better. No ill effects from the amount of power that was bouncing around inside you?” “I’d like you to bounce around inside me. Whaddaya say, big boy?” “I say you’re incorrigible. And wicked.” “And wanton. Don’t forget wanton.” She laughed and slid her hands down his back, reaching for his tight ass. She rubbed her breasts against him and leaned forward to capture his ear between her lips. “Mmm. I like the sound of that.” Vicki stretched under him, squeezing her muscles tighter. Nash moaned and gripped her shoulders as he thrust his hips. “Yeah, baby, just like that.” Her words had the desired effect on him as he began to move, thrusting in deep and hard, the sounds of wet flesh on wet flesh filling the air. When he moaned and grabbed her ass, lifting her partway off the bed, he penetrated even deeper, rubbing against her sweet spot. “Tight, so damn tight, love.” “You. Feel. So. Good.” She gasped each word as he punctuated them with deep thrusts. “Vicki,” he grunted, slamming into her faster. “Gods, woman.” “Yes,” she hissed as she closed her eyes and arched her back, the familiar tingling spreading up her body. “Yes, Nash, work it, baby.” He made a strangled sound, and her eyes flew open. She stared into his blue orbs, and felt her magic respond to him as it rose up in her again.

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“But…I thought we released it all.” “Guess I just bring out the best in you.” He grinned and cupped her breasts, massaging them as he increased the speed of his thrusts. “But I don’t even know you.” “Your soul recognizes mine,” he said. She wondered at his words, but then lost concentration as a wave of pleasure swept over her, the pressure building to an exquisite pitch as he drove her over the edge into another orgasm. Nash sighed and covered her with his body. He buried his face in her neck and breathed in deeply before he scooped her into his arms and rolled on his side, pulling her up against him. “You wore me out. Disposing of your excess magic took more out of me than I thought. I might be fae, but I’m not a god.” “Could have fooled me.” She smiled into his chest as she burrowed close. They had expended a lot of magic and energy. As Nash drifted off to sleep, his words replayed in her mind. He’d said he was fae. Although she’d never believed they existed, she didn’t doubt his magic. Not only was he stronger than anyone she’d ever met, he’d released her magic in the most pleasurable way imaginable. Stranger or not, she owed him for this lesson and hoped for a repeat when they woke. “Finally,” he whispered as he buried his face in her neck. “Mine. Two souls, now one.” Vicki pulled back and looked down at him in confusion. What the hell? “I love you.”

What the hell have I gotten myself into this time?

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Chapter Two

Strong arms pinned her in place, and a huge cock pressed against her hip. Nash. Memories of the night before flashed behind her tightly closed eyes, reminding her of divine pleasure. Pleasure so intense and overwhelming she wanted to experience it again. Now, please. She opened her eyes and looked at him. Nash looked like he was still sleeping, but his cock was thick and hard, begging to be licked. Or ridden. When she’d told him she was wanton, she hadn’t been joking. Vicki eased out of his arms and rolled him onto his back. Nash murmured in his sleep and reached for her, but she avoided his arms and straddled his hips. Vicki wrapped her hands around his erection and impaled herself on him. Nash’s eyes flew open, and he gave her a devilish grin as he grabbed onto her waist. “Good morning, love.” “Good morning, handsome.” “It’s good to see we’re both morning people.”

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Vicki snickered and began to move. Her goal was to have him moaning and writhing under her as she gave him an orgasm to remember. He deserved that and more for showing her how to release her magic. Alternating her pace, Vicki rode him slowly at first and then fast, watching his reaction to different movements and speed. Once she knew which movements brought him the most pleasure, she worked him higher and higher, his sounds of pleasure enough to almost send her into her own orgasm. He turned his head to the side and stared at the mirror. When he moaned and lifted his hips, she realized their reflections were making him even more aroused. Vicki followed his gaze and stared at their reflections. She looked wanton and beautiful. She’d never thought of herself as beautiful, but she did right now. As her stomach tightened, she admitted to herself that it was the most erotic thing she’d ever seen. Nash cupped her breasts and massaged them before slowly sliding his hands down to her ass. As she moved on him, his cock reached deeper and deeper, filling her completely. His hands shook when they grabbed her hips, and she wondered if it was from the force of not giving in to his urge to flip her over and pound into her. “You feel like heaven and sin. So soft, wet, and tight.” He bit his lip and thrust up into her. “Yes.” Vicki moaned and arched her back as he moved his hands to her breasts again, this time playing with her nipples as he continued to thrust into her.

My love. The words came from nowhere and reverberated inside her head. Nash groaned and came as he rammed deep and held there. Not content, Vicki moved on him hard and fast, drawing out his orgasm and triggering her own. With a sigh, Vicki rested her head on his chest and tried to catch her breath. She should move, get off him, but she didn’t want to. She liked it right here. Liked it too much.

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“What are your plans today, love?” His breath brushed against her ear, and she shivered.

Goddess. He’s still hard, and I could go for another round. What is wrong with me? Wanton be damned, this is insatiable. “Vicki?” “I have research to do and then work at the bar again tonight. I work at The Hot Spot, but then, since you knew my name, you probably know that too.” He grinned. “You need to make time so I can train you in magic. Whoever your teacher is, she isn’t doing the best job. Hell, she’s doing a shitty job. You could have died if I hadn’t been there to help you.” “I would have been just fine, thank you very much. I have been handling it on my own for a while now, after all. I would have survived. Even if I’d killed him, it would have been okay. I might still have felt guilty, but the bastard attacked me. It was self defense.” “Self defense or not, you were not handling it well. Your magic was just waiting for you to weaken enough for it to take over. You could have died last night. You could still die next time.”

What the hell? Vicki pulled away from him and backed off the bed, looking for her clothes. “I don’t need you, Nash the Fae. I am grateful for your assistance, but I would have been just fine without you. I’ve made it this long, haven’t I?” “Vicki, love. I know you’re confused. It’s overwhelming, isn’t it? But I’ve searched for you for centuries. Now that I’ve found you, I don’t want to let you go. But at least I understand what is going on. You don’t. Let me teach you how to use your magic without harming others or yourself.” “You might be a god in bed, but you’re a psychopath. We had sex. Great sex, but no love. What did you do with my clothes, and how do I get back to Philadelphia from here?” Vicki searched the room, but couldn’t even find his clothes to cover herself with.

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Nash shook his head, but her clothes reappeared, fresh and clean, at the foot of the bed. “Thanks,” she mumbled as she tugged them on. Looking utterly gorgeous, Nash leaned up on one arm, not bothering to cover his stillhard erection, and frowned at her. “Look, buddy. I don’t take orders, especially from a guy who thinks he’s my owner after one night of sex.” “Earth-shattering sex.” “Whatever. You --” “You’re the one who said it was earth shattering. I’m just pointing out what you’ll be missing if you leave me.”

What could she possibly say to counter a man with an ego as big as his? “You know what, Nash? I’m outta here, with or without your help. What’s it gonna be?” The hurt in his expression almost made her reconsider. Maybe it had been the best sex of his life as well. But none of that mattered. He was a stranger, a very handsome and very, very crazy one. “I’ll take you home, Vicki. But don’t think I’m letting you go. You’re mine. You’ll realize it sooner or later.” Nash rose, and with a wave of his hand, he was dressed in a white shirt and khaki pants. He looked as mouthwateringly hot as sin, and she wanted him again. But not at the cost of herself. He was too possessive and crazy to boot. “I need to hold on to you to transport you back to Philadelphia. Where do you wish to go?” “Home. No.” Not your house, you idiot. Do you really need him knowing where you

live? “Love, I not only know where you live, but I can read your mind too.”

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“Jesus Christ!” She jumped back and stared. “You’re a total fruitcake.” “Maybe, but how else would I know what was in your head if I couldn’t read your mind?” “A lucky guess.” “I don’t think so.” “Then don’t think. Just take me home.” “As you wish.” He frowned, but walked over and wrapped his arms around her. Before she could blink, they were on her front porch. “You… How…” “I told you, I can read your mind.” “Then read this.” She glared at him and backed toward her door. Stay the hell away

from me. I don’t want to see you ever again!

***** Footsteps echoed in the almost empty street behind her, and Vicki let out a low curse. Even without looking, she knew it was the guy who’d attacked her earlier. The one who couldn’t take no for an answer. Damn it. She was tired, and her feet hurt from standing behind the bar for ten hours. She just wanted to go home and have a nice long soak. But now this asshole wanted to play. Releasing a frustrated sigh, Vicki spun around and caught him off guard. She smirked, but he quickly recovered and came toward her faster. He must have thought she’d run. Perhaps he loved the thrill of the chase. Maybe he got his kicks that way. Well, he’d be disappointed. No one took advantage of Victoire Duramel. Not anymore. Especially not handsome hunks who claimed to be fae.

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“Hey, baby. I knew you were just playing hard to get.” He leered at her cleavage, and she immediately regretted the low-cut black lace top she’d paired with a black broomstick skirt. “I wasn’t playing hard to get, you dumb ass. Go find someone else to harass.” Why am I

being attacked for the fifth night in a row? It’s almost as if someone is out to get me. “I don’t want anyone else. I want you.” Vicki groaned at his stupidity. She took a step back as her magic surged deep within. It always sensed danger and hadn’t failed her yet. Nothing would convince him to leave her alone. Experience had taught her it was better to give in to the magic instead of fighting it. Even if it sometimes had disastrous effects. At least now she knew how to release it without hurting anyone. Sex. As her magic took over, a sudden breeze blew around the alley, whipping her long black hair in her face and swirling her skirt around her legs. Even as she tried to control it, she could feel the power roaring in her veins, racing to be freed. Before she could stop herself, her arms flew out, her magic lifting her attacker and flinging him back several feet. He hit the brick wall with a thud and fell to the ground.

Dear Goddess, did I kill him? Helpless to do anything, she stood there feeling the rush of power and the struggle her all-too-mortal body had to exert to keep the power from ripping her apart. Afraid of both the power and her weakness, she feared not only for herself, but for the next unfortunate soul she stumbled upon.

Nash was right. I do need him, or at least, his training. Maybe I just need to release the magic with more sex.

***** “So you’re saying it’s my fault? You think I should have eased her into the truth? What was I to do? I thought she felt the same way.”

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“You pushed too fast and lost her.” “Damn it, she’s not lost!” Nash slammed his fist on the table. When he’d come to Nic and Elena for advice, he hadn’t expected a lecture, or even worse, this torture they claimed was a recommendation. “No,” Elena crooned as she wrapped her arms around him. “She’s not lost. You just came on way too strong and scared her off. You’re an alpha male, and if you’re like Nic was when he realized I was his true love, you acted too possessive and bossy. But unlike her, I was used to men like you and was more accepting.” “You were not accepting.” Nic laughed and pulled her away from Nash. “You fought me every step of the way.” “What did you expect when you turned all Neanderthal on me?” “Guys. Hello? This is about me, remember?” “Sorry.” Elena grimaced. “You need to try again, but go more slowly. Maybe if you didn’t have sex, but showed her your feelings, she might be more willing to believe you. For all we know, she didn’t even know the fae existed before you told her.” Nash froze in the act of reaching for his cup when he felt something wrong with Vicki. No matter how much she wished him gone, they’d bonded. Connected on a level she couldn’t destroy even if she wanted to. They were meant to be together. And right now, she was with another man, her power raging inside, struggling to break free. “Damn her,” he hissed as he leapt to his feet. “Does she think that just anyone can be used as a release for her power? He’s human, not even a drop of magic in his veins. She’ll kill him before he even gets her clothes off.” Ignoring the look Nic and Elena shared, Nash transported to Vicki’s bedroom. “What the hell is going on?” Nash crossed his arms and leaned against the door and glared.

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Vicki stood in the center of the room, sparks erupting from her fingertips. Her male suitor stared at her as if she were a freak show. Her power was so strong, Nash knew if it hadn’t been for their connection and his instant absorption of some of her excess power, she’d have already killed the man. “I’m fine, Nash. It’s all under control.” “You and your control be damned. He’s merely a mortal. Did you really think he’d be capable of absorbing your energy without any negative effects? Don’t you realize the repercussions of what you’re about to do? Do you want his death on your conscience too?” “I thought if I had sex with him, it would all be released like with you.” Nash growled and clenched his hands, fury at both her ignorance and her attempt to seduce another man fueling his magic. “I’m trained to handle magic. Your power is so out of control right now that I’m not even sure another witch could handle you.” “You’re just jealous, because in your crazy mind, you think you love me and that I belong to you. You hate to see me with another guy and are just being spiteful.” “Spiteful? Jealous?” He walked over and grabbed her arms. “Hell, yes, I’m jealous. But I speak the truth. If you think about what I’ve said and what you yourself know, you’ll see that I’m right. If I hadn’t absorbed most of your magic when I arrived, he’d already be dead. You’d kill him and yourself just to prove you don’t need me.” “But I don’t need you!” As she screamed at him, power streaked from her fingertips and arced across the room. The man shouted and ran for the door. “Don’t call me again, Vicki. Whatever you are, it’s not my type!” “Vicki, love, stop and listen to what your heart is telling you. What is the power telling you? Maybe I rushed things. Professing my love could have waited a week or two, until you felt more comfortable with me, but I thought you felt the same thing.”

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Nash sighed as she still looked as if she wanted to argue. How can I get her to trust me?

How can I help her if she won’t let me? “I don’t want to make love to you again. I just need to release this magic, and I’ll be okay.” “You aren’t okay. Any longer and you’ll go up in a burst of flames. Open your damn eyes, woman. You really don’t want to challenge me right now. You might be strong, but so is your power, and it’s almost completely out of your control. I have already released some of your power. If we make love, it will strengthen our connection, enabling me to release the rest. Let me help you, Vicki.” “Fine. We make love, release this power, then you teach me how to do this without making love to you.” “Okay, it’s a deal.” He’d agree to anything as long as she let him help her before she killed herself. More magic snaked out of her hands and zapped the floor, catching the rug on fire. Nash put out the fire with his magic and grabbed onto Vicki. He transported her to his rooms, where her magic couldn’t start a fire. Even if she had charred his favorite mirror last night. Vicki cupped his face in her palms and pulled him down for a kiss. The heat from her power and lust combined with his to leave him breathless with need. “I want to tie you up.” Nash swallowed and looked at her, hoping he’d heard wrong. “What?” “I. Want. To. Tie. You. Up. Got a problem with that?” “Um. No. But I can give you so much more pleasure --” He froze when her power surged again, shattering his favorite lamp. “Okay, tie me up.”

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The grin on her face told him he’d made the right decision, but the alpha male in him protested at giving up control. Prove you love her. Give her what she wants, and she’ll see. I

hope. “Sorry about that.” She winced as she looked at the pieces of his lamp. “It’s okay. Apparently, I’ll be redecorating my bedroom, anyway.” She shook her head and growled. “Get on the bed. You’re right. The power is slipping free, and I can’t stop it anymore. I need you to help me release the power, and I need you to teach me how to do this without having to fuck you.” “What’s the fun in that?” “Nash!” She frowned and pointed at the bed. “Bed. Now.” Nash crawled on the bed and whisked away his clothes with a grin. “What next, Mistress?” “Hmm. I like the sound of that. Use it for the rest of the night.” He hated giving up control, but the desire radiating off Vicki and the sparkle in her eyes said she’d make sure he enjoyed it. “I need you bound magically so you can’t escape. Unfortunately, I’m as likely to burn your hands and feet as I am to bind you, so bind yourself to the bed.” “Bind myself?” He nearly laughed out loud, but she wasn’t done giving orders. “Yes. And don’t worry. I’m going to test the bonds to make sure you aren’t playing me for a fool.”

Shit.

***** Vicki stared, breathless. He was the most beautiful thing she’d ever seen, and he was hers. All hers. For tonight. For eternity from what he said, but she couldn’t think that far ahead. He was definitely too alpha for her.

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Her magic surged again, and she cursed. Why can’t I enjoy this? I’ll probably never get

the chance to tie him up again. “You might. You never know, love. Make it worth my while, and we’ll see.” Shaking her head, she advanced toward him and grabbed onto his foot. As she tickled him, he tried to wiggle free, but the bonds held. Could still be a trick. She climbed on the bed and wrapped her hands around his long, thick cock. Nash groaned and arched under her touch, sending a thrill of pleasure through her. His pleasure was her pleasure, and she wanted more. “Give me chocolate sauce.” “What?” “Stop questioning me and start doing what I ask when I ask it. I want some chocolate sauce, and I want it now!” Biting her lip to keep from laughing at his comical expression, she held out her hand and waited for him to obey. Within seconds, the sauce was in her hand. “Good boy.” He made a funny noise, but then moaned when she dipped her finger in the sauce and spread some of it on his erection. Nash pressed into her touch, but the bonds kept him from thrusting, which was probably what he really wanted to do. “Actually, I want to take off these bonds and fuck you until you’re blind. I wanna take you hard and fast until you scream my name and shatter into a million pieces. I --” “Gag yourself, Nash.” “What the fuck! I am not going to gag myself!” “You will if you want me lick all that chocolate sauce off of your gorgeous cock.” Silence greeted her as a red silk scarf appeared in his mouth.

I love it when you get all dominatrix on me, love.

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“Oh, my Goddess! Get the hell out of my head!” Nash didn’t say anything, but she couldn’t be sure he’d obeyed, either. “If I hear one more thing out of you, I’m going to stop.” His eyes took on a sad puppy-dog look, but she refused to cave. How can I be in control

if you keep undermining me? He lowered his head submissively and kept quiet. Once again, her magic reminded her she wasn’t as in charge as she believed. She lowered her mouth and began to lick off the chocolate sauce, taking special care to use long, slow, leisurely strokes with her tongue and moaning in appreciation of the taste. Nash fisted his hands and tried to arch into her, but his bonds remained secure. Satisfied she was definitely in control, Vicki gave in to the urge to take his cock into her mouth and drew him in deep, licking and sucking at the remaining chocolate. “Mmm. I love the way you taste. Take away my clothes. I can’t wait to have you in me.” A moan was her only answer as he whisked away her clothes. Vicki rose over Nash and sank down on him, taking his cock in as far as she could. He reached further and filled her more than any other man ever had. Too soon, she sensed he was ready to come. “You can’t come yet.” When he groaned, she shook her head and stayed still. “I mean it, Nash. You can’t come.” The look in his eyes was one of disbelief and anguish. “Am I the first to ever dominate you?” He nodded. Pleasure raced through her. That he let her do something he’d never allowed another woman to do made her want to ride him hard and fast and send them both over the edge. But she couldn’t. He needed to learn a lesson. She wasn’t a weak-willed woman he could

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proclaim love to and use. She might enjoy the sex, but there’d be no more manipulating her. He’d teach her how to release her magic without sex. “I mean it, Nash. Don’t come until I say you can.” A garbled sound came from him, and she almost relented. Almost. She moved on him again, bringing herself close to her own release. I need the orgasm so I can release the magic

like last time. Vicki looked at Nash and held his gaze. “I’m going to come, but you can’t.” He winced, and she quickly added, “I have to release some of this magic.” As if she’d summoned it, magic slipped free, sending the pillow next to Nash up in flames.

Are you trying to kill me, woman? This room is guarded to protect me and anyone else I command it to. That’s why I brought you here. But you’re stronger than I thought. Or my barriers won’t work on my mate. The flames went out, but Vicki knew her time was limited now. Resuming her movements, she concentrated on the sensation of him buried deep inside her and Nash’s growls of frustration and desire. Even as she picked up her pace, she longed to feel his hands on her or his mouth on her breast as she brought both of them to the edge of a climax. “Free yourself from your bonds and pleasure me until I come three times. Then maybe, maybe, I’ll let you come.” His eyes lit with fire at the challenge. Faster than she could blink, he had her on her back and drove into her so hard and fast that she shattered before she could catch her breath. “One,” he whispered, nibbling on her ear before kissing his way down her neck to her breasts. While he massaged one breast, he teased the other with his teeth and tongue. “One,” she echoed, still trying to catch her breath as the sensations threatened to overwhelm her. Not only was her lower body numb and tingling, but now her upper body was as well.

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Magic rushed from her into Nash. She had no idea how he released it and didn’t really care as he slid out of her and lowered his mouth to her clit. “Oh, Goddess.” She moaned and writhed under him as he licked at her sensitive nub. “Oh, Nash,” he muttered, the sound vibrating her clit and sending tremors racing throughout her body. Vicki cried out and fisted her hands in his hair as he used his expert mouth on her, thrusting her headlong into another climax. When he paused and looked up at her, her cum on his face and his eyes shining with desire, she wished he was right and that he was her true love, because she wanted more of this every day for the rest of her life. “Two.” He held her gaze for a minute before he lowered his mouth and kissed her folds. “Two,” she moaned, arching into his mouth. All the power she’d summoned had vanished, and she felt completely and utterly sated. But she’d told him he had to make her come three times. Can I handle any more? “Yes, love. I have no doubt you can handle all that I can give you and more.”

That sounds ominous. Nash grinned and licked his lips as he stared at her for a minute. “What?” “Nothing, love. Just trying to decide which way to pleasure you next.” “Well, hurry up. That was only two, and you can’t --” He flipped her over onto her stomach, ending her tirade before she could get to the threat. Slowly, he slid his finger down her spine and the crease of her ass before sliding it over her folds and slipping it inside her. Vicki moaned and arched, thrusting her bottom in the air, but didn’t care. All she wanted was more of this. More of Nash.

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“That’s it, love. Move that sweet ass.” He added another finger to the first and crooked them, rubbing against her inner walls, pressing on just the right spot to send shivers up her spine. “Nash,” she gasped and widened her legs as he repeated the motion. “Yes, baby. That’s it.” He growled and removed his fingers, sliding his cock into her canal and thrusting deep. Vicki cried out and arched as he grabbed her hip with one hand and smacked her ass with the other. “What the -- oh!” She moaned as he slapped her again, and the sting melted into a burn that fueled her hunger. “Like that, do you?” Even though she wanted to reprimand him for his cocky attitude, he thrust deeper and slid his hand over the sting, soothing it with his touch. “I bet you’re going to love this,” he whispered as he rubbed a finger on her clit and pressed the tip of a wet finger from the other hand against her ass. “Oh…no. No, no, no. Not that.” “Not what?” he asked as he slid the tip of his finger inside. “That.” She gasped and pressed back against him. Pleasure warred with fear of the unknown. How can this feel so good? “This?” he asked as he slid his finger out, then back in a little deeper. “Oh, yes.” She shuddered, her muscles clenching around both his digit and his penis. “Do you want me to stop?” “Yes. I mean, no. Goddess, no. Don’t stop.”

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Nash thrust into her hard and fast, leaving her struggling for air as her body tightened around him. When he moved his finger in her ass, she screamed. Her orgasm was so strong that she shook from the force of it and collapsed on her stomach. “Three,” Nash whispered as he pulled out and pressed his cock against her rosette. “You will give this to me, but not right now.” Vicki heaved a sigh of relief. He was too big. There was just no way he could fit in there without hurting her. “Oh, yes, there is a way, love. But I won’t show you tonight. Maybe tomorrow.” She groaned and tried to roll over, but he grabbed onto her hips and stopped her. “Are you going to deny me my orgasm?” She shook her head, too weak to answer verbally, as he rolled her over and knelt between her thighs. “Good.” He thrust in to the hilt and groaned. Slowly, he moved in and out, picking up speed as his breathing grew labored. It was impossible, but her body reacted to him again, and her muscles clenched around him. “Four.” He rammed in deep and hard, and they cried out together.

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Chapter Three

“Enough already, Nash. You’re like a bunny rabbit -- or a succubus.” “Incubus.” “Whatever. My point is that we need to focus on my training and not your desires. You promised to train me how to use and release my magic without having to resort to sex.” Vicki crossed her arms and leaned against the kitchen counter as Nash cooked. Nothing seemed to rile him, not even her mention of no more sex. Good, then it must not mean that much to him. “I promised to train you, and I will, love. But you can’t expect me to stop teasing and flirting with you. I do love you, and you will be mine, no matter how long it takes or how much I have to do to prove it to you.” “Would you go without sex for a month?” He nodded. “What about three months?” She grinned as he hesitated, but still nodded. “Six months?” Nash turned around and pointed the plastic spatula at her. “Now, love, be realistic. Is there any way a woman with a sex drive as high as yours can go six months without sex?”

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“Actually, I could. I don’t normally…sex isn’t usually…” Why can’t I think of the right

words to express myself without making his ego even bigger? Nash grabbed her wrist and pulled her close, kissing her until she was breathless and trembling. Before she could even think about asking him to stop, he released her and returned to cooking. “You know what, Nash?” “No. What?” “I’m going to go for a walk.” “Don’t go too far. Breakfast will be ready soon, and then we’ll begin your training.” Vicki didn’t answer. Instead she walked over to the back door, stepped outside, and froze. The beach was mere feet from the house. Lush vegetation grew everywhere she looked, and the sounds of birds and waves crashing brought her a sense of peace even the city didn’t give her. “Where are we?” “My family’s beach house.” Vicki turned around to look at him and noticed the sheer size of the house. “Beach house? Your family’s beach house?” She backed up until she could see the top of the house. It was three stories high and long as a city block. Since she’d only been in his bedroom, the upstairs hallway, and the stairs leading to the kitchen, she had no idea how many rooms or how grand the rest of the house was. Determined to find out what else he hadn’t told her, she walked back to the kitchen. “So you are immortal and rich as sin?” “The house has been in my family since…well, forever.” “So do I need to worry about a lot of people dropping in?”

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“Not really. Usually Nic and I are the only ones who come here, unless there’s a celebration. I’m expecting him and Elena to drop by for dinner, but other than that, it’s just the two of us.” “Did you tell Nic that I’m your true love, and we’re supposed to get married?” “No. I only told him that I screwed your brains out three times, and if he gets here when you’re in a good mood, there’s a possibility of a ménage.” Magic swelled in her chest as she gave in to her anger. “What kind of a --” “Sorry, love. I couldn’t resist teasing you, although my brother might be up for a bit of fun. Elena too. I just don’t know that I can share you.” Her anger eased at his statement. Of course he wouldn’t want to share her. Not even with this Nic. She’d noticed his possessiveness before. It was one of the reasons she fought his declarations of love. To get involved with a man like him would mean a lot of headaches and heartaches. “Breakfast is ready if you want to eat before your walk.” Nash carried the pan over to the table, and Vicki followed, the scent deciding it for her. “It smells divine.” She walked over to the table and studied the huge omelet filled with meat, cheese, and veggies. “I’m a man with a large appetite.” He smiled and scooped some of the omelet onto a plate and handed it to her. “I’ve noticed.” She poured two glasses of milk, placed one in front of him, and sat across from him, hopefully far from temptation. “Can you tell me how you came into your powers? Maybe when you first discovered them and when you realized you could use them.” Nash emptied his plate in a matter of seconds, and she couldn’t help but stare at him as he scooped more onto his dish.

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“It was all rather recent. Around the time I turned twenty-nine. I could understand if it happened when I turned thirty -- that’s a big change -- but nope. And when I’m in danger, I can’t control it.” He doesn’t need to know I can’t control it at all.

I’m not stupid, love. You can’t control it any more than you can say no to me. Vicki gasped and stared at him, outrage filling her with the need to get even. “Watch and see, buddy.” “Ooo, is that a challenge?” “It’s a promise.” She narrowed her eyes and glared, but he winked, ruining the mood she wanted to set. “So basically we’re starting at the beginning. Hope you don’t need to go back to work tonight.” “Why?” “Because this is going to take a while.” Vicki rolled her eyes. “Practicing magic,” he said, his eyes sparkling with mischief. Vicki was lost. She knew it. It was pointless to fight him. She felt the intense connection and longing too. While her need to be with him wasn’t as strong as his apparently was for her, it was there, nonetheless. They cleaned up the simple meal and walked a safe distance from the house onto the beach. “I’m not sure how your magic is slipping in under mine. I have my room guarded, yet your magic keeps doing damage to my favorite things.” “It missed the other mirror, you voyeur.” “There’s nothing wrong with watching someone have sex. Especially if it’s yourself.” Vicki shook her head as she laughed. She’d expected no less from him.

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“Have you ever tried to summon your power when you aren’t in danger?” “I felt it earlier this morning when I was mad at you. Other than that, no.” “Okay.” He grinned. “Get mad at me, and then we can get the party started. Soon you’ll be able to focus and not need emotion to use your magic.” “That would be nice.” “And what would you do with your magic, Victoire? There aren’t many people willing to accept things that are out of the norm.” Nash walked over to the water’s edge and looked out at the endless ocean. “There is a price for using the magic, but we’ll get into that later. First you need to control it and then decide if you are willing to pay the price to use it.” “What do I do first?” “Summon your power. We can try it without using your emotions, but if it comes easier with emotion, then I suggest we start that way.” “Am I trying to do anything specific with my power?” “Right now, I just want to see if you can summon it on purpose. Since you like to start fires, why not create one with that driftwood a few feet to our left?” Vicki stared at the wood and tried to picture a fire. She started by imagining a small one, but when nothing happened, she kept picturing a larger flame, until in frustration, she growled and pictured the entire woodpile burning like a bonfire. Suddenly the driftwood burst into blue flames, then burned with a natural fire. “Great job. I’m sorry it took anger to make it happen, but once you get used to it and how to use your power, it will come more naturally.” “Why can’t you just give me a Goddessdamned rule book?” Vicki glared at him. “Because every witch is different. What works for one won’t work for another. There is no generic spell book.” “There should be, dammit.”

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“I think now would be a good time to try releasing some excess magic.” “You think?” She turned to him, magic crackling under her skin. How had it gotten this strong this fast for something as simple as a fire? “It was your frustration, and probably the bonfire you mentally suggested.” “Excuse me?” “You summoned enough magic to create a bonfire.” He cleared his throat. “I might have made a small shield that prevented most of that magic from escaping.” “You put a shield around me?” “Only for your own good, love. Once I saw that image in your mind, I had to do something.” “But I was the one who made the fire?” “Most definitely. And it would have been a huge fire, if I hadn’t interfered.” “Oh.” “Okay, then. Now we’re going to try a very simple method to release all that pent-up energy. I want you to focus on that power and then turn it into something. Look just over that sand dune.” Nash pointed and a burst of greenery broke through the sand and rose, flowers spreading open on it until she could tell it held fuchsia-colored roses. “Wow.” Vicki looked at him and back at the bush. “You can do it too. You just need to focus and push the energy into what you want.” Vicki concentrated on the bush for a minute, then closed her eyes and tried to form the image of another rose bush. Instead, a fluttering butterfly kept appearing in her mind. Magic slipped from her like a gentle breeze, so maybe she was doing it right. When Nash gasped, she opened her eyes and saw at least ten blue butterflies flying around his roses. “Nice job, love. I’m very impressed. Karner Blue. They’re endangered, you know. Shame they’re only magical and will only last as long as the energy you used.”

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“You mean it isn’t really real?” Sadness gripped her heart. She’d done it, created something beautiful, and it was going to die, vanish as if it never existed. Because it didn’t. So what was the sense in doing it, then? “The fire is real enough, you saw proof of that in my bedroom, but this is different. You aren’t a goddess who can give life. As the butterflies will fade away, so will your fire. But while they are here, they are real enough. As your fire can do damage, so could something else you create. “It’s as real as you want it to be. Remember, there is a price we pay for the magic. My bush could last a long time, but I’m an ancient. I have a lot of power running through my veins. That’s why it shocks me that you are so strong and only a human. I wonder if you aren’t a reincarnated ancient one.” “Oh, no, you don’t. Don’t start with this reincarnation business.” Now he was spouting nonsense. Nash looked as if he wanted to argue, but instead he drew in a deep breath and released it. “Let’s take a break, then we’ll practice some more.” “You want to take a break now? I was just getting warmed up.” “I’m sorry, love. Give me a few minutes.” She stared at him as he walked away. He didn’t really think she was a reincarnated fae, did he?

***** Vicki sighed and sank into the tub. Even as she tried to wash the smell of smoke out of her hair, she wondered what Nash was doing. She was the one who’d said no more sex, yet every time he’d touched her this afternoon, she’d been hard pressed to keep from jumping him. The slightest touch from him had sent goose bumps up her body.

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And Nash, damn him, had been true to his promise. Though he flirted and touched her at every possible moment, he didn’t press the issue of sex or cross the line she’d drawn. So, here she sat, aroused and not willing to admit she wanted him. He was too controlling as it was. Give him an inch and she’d find herself barefoot and pregnant. But she’d like him to give her an inch or eight, nine, ten, whatever he was. He had agreed to let her dominate him again, hadn’t he? Perhaps if she came on to him, he’d be more willing to do things her way. Decision made, Vicki climbed out of the tub and dried off, planning what she would do. By the time she was dressed and halfway to the kitchen, she had a fully formed plan and was more than ready to implement it. When she walked into the kitchen, Nash was at the stove, cooking. One thing was certain, she wouldn’t starve. “Hey, baby.” She walked up behind him and wrapped her arms around his waist and rested her head against his back. “Uh…” “Shh. Don’t say anything. Let me tell you what I have to say, and then you can talk all you want. The dirtier the better.” He laughed, but kept silent. “That’s good. But then, after last night, I know just how good you are at following directions, don’t I, baby?” Nash nodded his head, but she felt his laughter and wondered why he was so happy. Was it because she had touched him first? Did he feel triumphant? Who cared? She needed to get laid, and no one else would do. “Nash, baby. I want a repeat of last night, only this time I wanna ride you to completion.” Vicki slipped her hand into his pants and palmed his erection. No underwear? He had always made his clothes vanish. She must not have noticed he went commando.

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Nash stiffened and shook his head, trying to pull away. “Hey. It’s okay for you to flirt with me and drive me crazy, but it’s not okay for me to do it to you?” “Um…” “I told you not to speak. And don’t speak in my mind, either. If you do, I’ll stop doing this.” Vicki dropped to her knees as she freed his cock from his pants. In a swift move, she took him into her mouth and sucked on his hard length. “What the hell?” Nash’s voice came from the doorway, and it didn’t sound very happy. Vicki froze and turned. His cock slipped out of her mouth as she stared at Nash all the way across the room. Slowly she looked up and saw Nash staring back down at her. “What the hell?” she echoed. “Two…but…is this your magic again? Like the invisible hands and mouth?” “Sorry, I tried to tell her I wasn’t you, but she ordered me to be quiet. Something about liking to dominate me -- you.” “Did I miss all the fun?” A woman with short black hair and dark blue eyes looked from her to the man next to her and back to her. “I think Nash forgot to tell Vicki that we’re twins,” said the man whose penis she’d just been sucking on. “But why was she sucking you off?” The woman bared her teeth, sharp fangs glistening in the kitchen light. Nic and Elena. Vicki released the semierect cock and slid back on her rear, away from all of the wackos. “It’s all right, honey,” Elena said. “It’s not you I’m going to bite.” Vicki looked up at Nash’s twin and noticed the eyes were a slightly different shade. Where Nash’s were light, Nic’s were dark. “You could have said you weren’t Nash!”

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“You threatened me. Told me not to say a word. I have to admit I was caught off guard at Nash as a submissive.” Nash growled and moved toward them until Elena put her hand on his chest and stopped him. She leaned up and kissed his mouth, a lingering one that made Vicki’s magic swell in her chest in anger. “It’s not like I haven’t mistaken you for Nic.” “So you wouldn’t mind a ménage?” Nic asked, too eagerly for Vicki’s tastes. “Hell, no!” Vicki and Nash shouted at the same time. Nic laughed. “But I shared Elena with you.” Vicki couldn’t tell if he was serious or not. Nash had slept with his brother’s wife? Before or after they were married? Maybe they’d tricked her too. They looked identical. “Well, who’s gonna finish sucking me off, then?” Nic looked at Elena. She grinned and licked her lips. “After dinner, lover.” Vicki groaned and scrambled to her feet. “You are all seriously fucked up.” “Vicki!” She ignored Nash and raced outside. She hit the beach running and tore off her clothes as she dove into the surf. How humiliating. Yeah, they might be twins, but she’d had Nic’s dick in her mouth. Perhaps if she hadn’t coated Nash’s in chocolate last night she’d have noticed a difference. But no, she hadn’t. And she’d have kept right on sucking on him, if Nash hadn’t walked in. As she dove under another wave, she heard her name, but ignored him.

Vicki, love. Please don’t do this. Leave me alone. She choked back tears.

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Vicki. It’s all right. It was a simple misunderstanding. I should have told you he was my twin. I wasn’t thinking. I guess I figured you meant it when you said no sex, and I had no idea something like this would happen. Well, it did. Do you think I enjoyed watching you suck on my brother’s dick? He was enjoying it too, the bastard. I can’t talk about this right now, Nash. I need to forget it as quickly as I can. Please, let me be humiliated in peace and quiet. You aren’t at fault, Vicki. She snorted. He had no idea. She had told Nic to keep his mouth shut. Could she blame the warm-blooded male for not stopping her from making the mistake? Hell, yeah. He was married, for crying out loud. Married.

Honey, they aren’t like you. It took Nic a long time to get used to Elena’s insatiability. Now they enjoy each other, but sometimes they have other people with them. Like you. He was silent for so long, she thought he wasn’t going to answer. Like me. But it was a

long time ago and before I found you. Before I knew you existed. But you like to have sex with multiple partners. So why would you want me? I won’t share you, Nash. And I can’t be with a man who’d share me. Even with his brother. Dammit, Vicki. I don’t want to share you with him. Didn’t you hear a word I said back there in the kitchen? Go, Nash. Please, just leave me alone right now. Silence greeted her, and then she couldn’t sense him anymore. With a sigh of relief she dove back under the water and swam until she’d exhausted her mind and body. Only then did she return to the beach and dress. As she walked back up to the house, butterflies flitted

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in her stomach, but the kitchen was empty. A covered dish sat on the table, but she wasn’t hungry. She skipped it and walked up through the quiet house. Where was everyone? Taking the stairs two at a time, she took a quick shower, then climbed into Nash’s bed. She didn’t know where else to go and was too afraid of picking Nic’s bedroom to venture down the hallway.

***** Nash sat in the chair in the dark. If she’d turned on the light, she’d have seen him and probably fled. Even when it wasn’t his fault, it was. Was it even possible to win anything with Vicki? He had protested, rather vocally there and then later. He’d also taken a swing at Nic, but he couldn’t really blame his brother. They’d shared women in the past. But Nic knew Vicki was special. He remembered how possessive Nic had been of his wife. It was a wonder he could even share her in a ménage, but he did. Mainly for Elena. As a vampire, her sex drive was in super overdrive. The woman was like the sexual Energizer Bunny. He didn’t blame Nic for needing assistance with his insatiable mate. At least Vicki had returned to his bed. And hopefully she’d forgive him for not telling her he was a twin. Now he really wasn’t getting laid. Wrapping his hand around his dick, Nash pumped it as he pictured Vicki when she’d licked the chocolate sauce off of him. Her sweet purr and moans of pleasure that had rumbled through his body, making it almost impossible to hold back his orgasm. But he had. For her. Couldn’t she see how much he loved her? “Nash?” “Yes, love?” He held his breath waiting for her response. Finally, she answered. “Come to bed.”

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Without giving her a chance to change her mind, he crawled into bed and wrapped his arms around her, spooning her. “Good night, Nash.” “Night, love.” He kissed the top of her head and ignored his painful erection. What was one more night of discomfort, anyway? At least he could hold her.

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Chapter Four

Nash woke with a warm body wrapped around his, and memories rushed at him from last night. Vicki. She was still here. All this time he’d been searching for something to make him feel whole, and he’d found it where he’d least expected. And she was leading him on a merry chase. Even though she put up a tough front, he knew Vicki needed him. Possibly more than he needed her. She was his other half. After centuries of sharing women with Nicolas, it had all come to an end when Nic had found Elena. A fae and a vampire -- who’d have guessed it would be a true love match? And Vicki. A powerful witch with no idea of the extent of her skills or the power to control them. All he knew was that his days and nights of searching were over. He’d found the only one who could make him feel complete. And the only one who could sate his sexual appetite. Vicki murmured in her sleep and snuggled closer, warming a part of his heart that had been cold and lonely for so long. “Nash?” “Yes, love?” he whispered as he kissed her forehead.

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She snuggled even closer and sighed. “Make love to me.” Was she asleep or awake? Did he care? Yes. He didn’t want to be accused of taking advantage of her. But then her hand was on his dick, and he stopped thinking as she kissed him. Determined to make this lovemaking one she couldn’t interpret as anything other than an act of love, he kissed his way over her body, massaging and nibbling on her sensitive areas as he went. By the time he reached her toes, she was completely relaxed. Slowly, he inched his way back to her delicious pussy and kissed it, before looking up to see her staring down at him. “I love you,” he whispered, rubbing his lips over her mons. “I know.” She shivered and shifted, giving him easier access. With long, slow strokes, he licked her, enjoying the taste that was purely Victoire. Her moans and whispered pleas almost drove him to finish it now, but he had to show her he listened. That he cared more for her than himself. “That feels so good.” Vicki shivered as he dipped his tongue past her folds. He repeated the action, drawing a small cry from her. She fisted her hands in his hair. “More, please.” “As you wish, love. I’m yours to command.” She sighed, and he grinned. Nash slid his index finger along her slit and back down again. She tasted so good, and her sounds were enough to make him come from listening to her alone. “I love you,” he whispered, then licked her clit. “Yes,” she growled, thrusting up into his mouth, her hands on his head pressing him into her. Even as she tried to urge him to move faster, he slowed his pace, moaning as he sucked on her clit and slipped one finger into her sheath. “Nash, please.” Vicki writhed under him, her muscles sucking his digit in deeper.

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“I will please you, love.” “Then do it now,” she moaned and pulled her legs up. “Please, Nash.” He didn’t want to make her beg, but the sound of it made him even harder. Obeying her command, he added two more fingers to the first and worked her with his mouth and digits until the sounds coming from her throat were pure ecstasy. “Come for me, Vicki. Let me drink every drop and pleasure you over and over again.” It was either his words or the way he twisted his fingers, but she cried out, coating his fingers with her essence. He lapped at her juices, enjoying her sweet taste as he licked up every last drop. Vicki moaned, her hands gripping his hair so hard he couldn’t move away from her even if he’d wanted to. Her body trembled as she rocked against his mouth, but he still wanted more. He wanted her to know he was the only man for her. Thrusting his fingers deep in her canal, he rubbed against her sweet spot, drawing breathless pleas from her. Over and over he repeated the motions, increasing his pace and strength until she clawed at his shoulders. “That’s it, love. Come for me again. You taste so divine. I could feast on you all day. Licking and sucking on your delicious pussy as you ride my face and my fingers.” “Nash!” Her voice broke as he teased her ass with his other hand. He pressed the tip of his pinky against her, and she screamed, her entire body spasming as she came again. “You’re trying to kill me with orgasms,” she moaned as she collapsed on the bed. He chuckled against her clit, and she pushed him away. “No more. I can’t take any more.” Her eyes flickered, then widened. “What about you?” “I don’t need release, love. Pleasuring you is enough.” “You’re a man. You need to come.” “Okay.” He laughed. “I do. But not now. This time was for you.”

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As he held her close, he ignored the small pang in his heart when she didn’t say she loved him. She’d come around. She had to.

***** Nash sat up suddenly as he realized the bed was empty. Had he scared her away with his multiple declarations of love? Using their mental connection, he reached for her and found her out on the patio. He lingered long enough to find out she was thinking about him and fondly remembering the multiple orgasms he’d given her earlier. Before she could realize he was in her mind, he broke the connection and rose, tugging on his jeans. It was easy to find her. She leaned over the railing under a large palm tree, staring into the garden. Wondering what she found so fascinating, he stepped closer and heard Elena giggle. So his love liked to watch, did she? He wrapped his arm around her waist and rested his chin on her shoulder as he snaked his other hand under her robe. She was as naked as he suspected -- and aroused. “Na--” “Shh,” he whispered in her ear. “They’ll hear you and know you’re watching.”

In fact, they probably already know she is watching. Vicki moaned and pressed back into him. Something she’d seen excited her. Nash looked into the garden and watched as Elena sank to her knees and drew Nic into her mouth. She took all of him in, an act his own dick wished Vicki would copy. He rubbed his hand over her belly and up to her breast. As Elena grabbed onto Nic’s ass with both hands and worked him with her mouth, Nash pulled and pinched Vicki’s nipples.

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A small gasp was the only sound she made. So she was willing to play, was she? He reached up and pushed her robe off her shoulders. When she tried to turn, he pressed up against her again, reaching around to cup her breast with one hand and slid his other down to cover her mound. Vicki arched back into him, so he slipped one finger into her canal and pressed his thumb against her clit while he plucked at her nipple with the other hand.

Nash. Joy rushed through him as she called to him mentally. Finally she was starting to accept him. There was hope yet. Nic’s shout pierced the air, and Nash looked back up to see his brother pumping fast and furious into Elena’s mouth.

Would you like me to do that for you? Yes, I would, love. But right now, I like you just where you are. He added another finger to the first and rubbed his thumb on her clit.

I’d like you buried deep inside me, but not your fingers -- your hard, thick cock. Nash groaned. I love it when you talk dirty.

Good, because I want you to slide that glorious cock deep inside me and fuck me until I scream, and then fuck me some more. Nash inhaled deeply. She was more affected by watching his brother and sister-in-law than he had originally thought. Will you let me take you in a new way?

Yes! Just take me. Nash looked up and saw Nic had pressed Elena down onto the grass and knelt between her legs. As Nic feasted on her, the sounds of Elena’s cries and Nic’s murmurs of pleasure reached Nash’s ears.

That was you a few hours ago.

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It looks so decadent. So naughty. So gooood. Trust me, love. You were good. And wet. She was soaking wet, her vaginal muscles tightening on his fingers as he pleasured her. Nic and Elena wouldn’t be out here much longer, and if Vicki realized they knew she was watching, she’d be horrified and run again. He should tell her, but she enjoyed watching them pleasure each other. When she started to tremble in his arms, Nash pushed her over the railing and tugged her sexy ass toward him. Vicki never took her eyes away from the sight before her, not even when he slid into her canal. Harder and faster he thrust into her, wanting to hear her scream in pleasure. He rubbed his wet finger against her rosette and teased the tiny opening, pressing on it until he felt her relax. Slowly, he slid his finger in, fighting for control as her muscles contracted around both his dick and his finger. As she moved, thrusting back against him, drawing his dick in deeper, he slid his finger in, stretching her, trying to prepare her for his dick. He hoped she’d be aroused enough to take him in without any pain. Elena cried out, and Nash looked up in time to see his brother thrusting into her, hard and fast. While Nash watched them, Vicki tightened around him even more, so he added another finger to the first. He slid his fingers in when he pulled his dick out, then slid them out as he pressed his cock into her hard, deep, and fast. Whimpers escaped from her unheeded as she met his thrust with her own and rocked against him in abandon.

Oh, love. Nash pulled out and replaced his fingers with his dick. He pressed against her until his tip was partway in, then he reached around and rubbed her clit with his thumb.

Nash, she screamed in his mind as she pushed back on him, and the rest of the head of his dick slid in.

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When she didn’t protest, he slid in deeper, enjoying the way her tight muscles locked on him, milking him. There was no way he’d last. Nash slid his fingers along her folds as he sank in until his balls pressed tight against her ass. Slowly, praying he didn’t hurt her, Nash moved, sliding in and out as he rubbed his wet fingers over her clit. Vicki moved against him, taking him without a word of protest. He breathed a sigh of relief and picked up his pace. Elena screamed again, but Nash didn’t bother to look. He moved faster, trying not to go too hard. He didn’t want Vicki to be too sore afterward. “Nash!” Vicki screamed into the night air. He’d been so caught up in her tight ass and not hurting her that he hadn’t realized her muscles had tensed and released around him. She bucked against him as her juices coated his hand. He continued to tease her clit and pump her from behind. Sweet moans filled the air as he moved faster and harder. With a roar, Nash came so hard he saw stars. Her echoing scream as she had another orgasm prolonged his. He held her up as best he could on shaky legs. “Sweet heaven, woman. That’s what you are.” Vicki moaned and looked out at Nic and Elena as they cried out together. Sensing her withdrawal, Nash pulled out and grabbed her robe, wrapping it around her.

Can you put us in your room before they see us? Love, they know we were watching them and making love while doing it. They had to hear your screams. I know, but I don’t want to see them. Not like this, anyway. Oh. He chuckled and pulled her close as he transported them to his bedroom. “I think my scream alerted them, but from the way they were going at it, it looked like they knew I was there the entire time.” “They did.”

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“Why didn’t you say something?” “Because you enjoyed it. I wasn’t sure if you knew or not. It didn’t matter to them.” She sighed, wrapped her arms around him, and rested her head against him.

***** “It’s not safe for you to leave.” Nash wrapped his arms around Vicki and pulled her close as he kissed the top of her head. “I feel like I just found you. I don’t want to let you go.” “You aren’t letting me go. We still have my training to complete. But I do need to work tonight. And hopefully, this time I can leave work without being accosted.” Nash frowned. “How many times have you been accosted?” “The last five nights I worked.” “This is too much of a coincidence.” “I could say the same about you. You aren’t the only guy to show such an interest in me since I discovered these powers.” “You don’t trust me.” He narrowed his eyes and crossed his arms. “Even after all this, you still aren’t willing to believe me.” “It’s not that. I’m trying to protect myself. I’m just not sure you’re what’s in my best interests.” Vicki patted his cheek and gave him a quick kiss on the lips before she pulled away. “I’ll have more time off. In fact, we could work on my training tomorrow if you want.” “If I want.” He snorted and tugged her up against him. “Do you really wanna know what I want?” Vicki laughed and shook her head. “You’re incorrigible and insatiable.” Nash gave her his best innocent look, but it only made her laugh harder. “All right, big guy, take me home.” “I still don’t like this.” He would have tried to persuade her stay, but she’d made up her mind. The victory wouldn’t be worth the cost.

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As soon as she leaned into him, he transported them to her home. She winced when she saw the damage to her bedroom. “I’ll take care of it for you. Don’t worry. It’ll be back to normal when you return.” “Thanks, Nash.” She grabbed some clothes and headed for the bathroom. Halfway there, she paused and looked back. “When you try, you really can be a sweetheart.” Before her words sank in completely, she was in the bathroom with the water running. Nash turned back to look at the mess. A painting she’d scorched lay ruined, along with her bedspread and pillow, a lamp, and an overstuffed chair in the corner by a bookshelf. At least she’d missed her books. He knew how much they meant to her, and replacing some of them would be impossible. By the time she came out, he had her room cleaned up and had repaired what he could, but he couldn’t replace the items she’d destroyed. “Thanks, Nash.” Vicki stared up at him, hunger in her eyes. A hunger his body matched eagerly. “Do you have to go in to work now?” “I’m afraid I do. Will you be here when I return?” “You better believe it.” He gave her another lingering kiss. “I really have to get to work.” “I love you.” “I know, Nash. I know.” “I’m taking you to work.” She sighed and headed for the door. “I knew you were going to say that. Come on, then. Let’s go before I’m late.” Nash grinned and caught up to her a few steps into the hallway. He wrapped his arms around her, and before she could protest, they were in the alley closest to The Hot Spot.

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Once he saw her to the door, he transported back to his bedroom and flopped onto his bed, inhaling her scent and remembering the previous night.

Oh, how the mighty have fallen. Shut up, Nic. What else are big brothers for? Making my life hell. That’s all you’re good at. Nic laughed in his mind, but then his voice became serious. What worries you?

Vicki says that she’s been attacked the past five nights she worked. In fact, if I have calculated it right, the only times she wasn’t attacked was when she was at our beach house. Do you think someone is aware not only of her power, but also of her inability to control it? Yes. Someone who wants either her or her power. Or both. Yes. Nash sighed and ran his hand through his hair. And it will be hard to protect someone who insists they don’t need the help. But it’s what you’re trained for. We saved Elena. We can save your witch too. I hope so. And, Nic… Yes? I think she’s a reincarnated ancient. Interesting. Nash propped his head on his arms and stared at the destroyed mirror on his ceiling. I

think we should call in Sorin. Sorin? He’s very powerful for a vampire and knows people we don’t. He has ways of finding out things we never could. Do you think he’d help?

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I can ask. Come back now, and we’ll figure all this out. If what you say is true, then her magic will rival even ours once she figures it out. Nash sat up and glanced around the room one last time before he walked to the living room. Elena sat on the sofa, watching as Nic paced. “What’s going on? I mean it only took me seconds to get here.” “Sorin called earlier. I didn’t want to bring it up since you mentioned him first. I thought I would just wait until you got here. He learned something about your witch, Nash, and he thought it would be best to discuss this in person.” “Well, shit.” He turned to his brother and tried to read his thoughts. For once Nic had blocked him thoroughly. “Fine. Keep it a big secret. I’ll figure it out myself.” Nash stalked to the patio doors and flung them open. “Hello there, Nash. How kind of you to greet me so quickly.” Nash growled and stared at the ancient vampire. With his black-as-midnight hair and soul-piercing blue eyes, it was easy to see that dark sensual looks ran in Elena’s family. “Please come in.” Nash reminded himself to watch his manners. He needed Sorin’s help, whether he wanted it or not. “You look radiant, Elena. And, Nic, you look like death warmed over.” “So good to see you too, Sorin.” Nic grinned and gave Sorin a quick hug. Nash rolled his eyes and shifted. Get to it already. “Why don’t I just get to the point?” Sorin’s expression turned grim as he looked at Nash. “That would be best. Nash isn’t very patient when it comes to Vicki.” “I can’t say that I blame him. He sensed her magic, didn’t he? It called to him like a siren’s song. Pulled you to her, didn’t it?” Nash stared at Sorin. “Nic’s been telling all my secrets, has he?”

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“No. Nicolas didn’t say anything. I know this is all true. Are you going to deny it?” “No.” “Good.” Sorin walked over to the window and looked out. “I’m sure you remember many centuries ago there was an uprising in the fae community.” “That’s an understatement.” Nash snorted. “We were also too young at the time to do anything about it.” “There was one woman who was very special. And your enemies knew that. So when they attacked, they went after her, instead of your council. How they knew about her, no one knows, but there had to have been a spy on the inside.” “And what does all this have to do with Vicki?” Nash paced over to the fireplace and back again as he waited for Sorin to get to the point. “All the information Elena has given me on Victoire leads me to believe she is that woman. Reincarnated.” Nash sat down, then stood back up. “Who exactly is the woman, and what made her so unique?” “She was one of the original fae. Older than time itself, she was here when the world was created. Her knowledge was unparalleled, and she was revered by many.” “Then why wasn’t she protected? This is ridiculous. And why would she reincarnate now? Why not centuries ago?” “All good questions, Nash. Ones I asked myself. They never thought anyone would try to kill her, or that they would succeed.” “And what exactly does this mean for Vicki?” “She is in danger. Her power is stronger than yours or mine. Uncontrolled like it is, she’s a danger not only to others, but to herself.” “You must have seen her in action.” Nash snorted as he remembered how she’d damaged his bedroom and hers.

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“It’s good that you’ve begun her training, but she needs more.” “What more can I give her?” “She needs protection.” “She’s got it. You know Nash is one of the best there is,” Nic said. “Elena and I will help. Hopefully, you know who’s after her so we can stop them.” “But if she’s this all-powerful fae, even her reincarnation, then why is she human and a witch? And why doesn’t she have all this knowledge?” “You know that when you reincarnate, it’s like a second chance. She must have chosen to come back as something other than fae. Perhaps that lifetime had been too much. She was older than time. No one knows how many things she’d seen and been through.” “How do you know she’s that woman?” Even though he’d known she was a reincarnated fae, he had trouble believing she was this ancient one. “You.” “Pardon me?” “And the strength of her power. She’s caused major waves across the city, and a lot of people want to manipulate her.” “You said you knew about the reincarnation because of Nash, also. Explain that, please,” Elena asked as she rose and walked over to Nash. She put her hands on his waist and gave him a reassuring squeeze. “You are her true mate. You were then. You are now.” Nash froze and stared at Sorin. “Wait. How the hell do you know all this?” Elena demanded as she hugged Nash tighter. “I remember something.” Nic looked over at Nash. “Like I said, we were too young to fight at the time, but you went through a major depression. Others said it was over the loss of

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life as we once knew it. No one seemed able to help. I overheard our parents talk once about how you would never find true love and happiness. That it was a sign of true loss.” “That’s ridiculous. I did find it. With my Vicki.” “Do you know what Victoire means, Nash?” Sorin’s voice was now gentle and full of concern. He’d rather it was still full of superiority. That he could handle. Not this sympathy. “It means Victory,” Elena said. “I think, and it’s not just my opinion, that Victoire, Vicki, has come back for a purpose. As much as I wish I could say it was to be with you, Nash, I can’t. There’re much bigger things at stake here. You’re just a pawn in all this.” “I will not be just a pawn. I love her. I will have her!” “I don’t doubt that. But you need to realize she has come back with this gift for a purpose. One that has already begun to play out.” “Then I will need to be there for her.” “Elena?” Sorin looked at his sister and smiled. “Your time is coming. You and Vicki will stand together as sisters. There will be a third, but I can’t see her yet.” “Hell, no!” Nic wrapped his arms around Elena and pulled her up against him. “No one is getting anywhere near her. You can forget her in your grand master plan.” “It’s not my plan, Nicolas. It’s been in motion for a long time. What I find bothersome is that you and Nash are brothers. Is it the fae community at stake here? Or something bigger?” “What do you mean? What have you seen, Sorin?” Elena looked up at her brother with fear in her eyes. Nash remembered now. Sorin had the gift of sight in addition to his many other eerie qualities. “It’s just that we’ve now got vampires, fae, and witches. What will the next be? And when? You and Nic joined together not too long ago, and now Nash has found Vicki. I --” Sorin broke off and turned to Nash, his eyes wide. “Shit. I mean, congrats, papa.”

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“Papa?” Nash frowned as he repeated the word. A gasp from Elena made him realize Sorin meant him, not Nic. How the hell did Sorin know Vicki had conceived? Wasn’t that something he should have sensed? “The change has started, but she won’t understand what is happening to her. You’ll have your work cut out for you trying to convince her to marry you and finish transforming to fae before the babies’ births.” “Babies?” Nic gasped. “Finish transforming?” Elena asked. “When Vicki conceived, the babies began to create a change within her. It needs to be completed with a formal ritual and handfasting.” Nash stared at him. Vicki couldn’t even tell him she loved him. There was no way in hell she’d handfast with him.

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Chapter Five

Vicki rubbed her stomach for the hundredth time. Something was wrong, dreadfully wrong. Her instincts had been screaming all night for her to run far away from here, but she couldn’t. Not until her shift was over. A collective sigh from the women brought her attention to the door. Nash! He was such a feast for her eyes she didn’t know where to look first -- at his gorgeous blue eyes, thick black hair, or well-muscled chest under a skintight T-shirt. The way his jeans fit like a second skin made her want to peel him like a banana. Nash crossed the room, his eyes never wavering from hers, not even to look at one of the prettier girls in the bar. When he reached her, he reached across the bar, put his hands on her shoulders, and pulled her close. He bent down, pressing his lips to hers, and kissed her long and hard. When her brain turned to mush and her legs to jelly, he loosened his grip and pulled back. “Evening, love.” “What are you doing here, Nash?” While she was happy to see him, there was no way she could concentrate on work with him around.

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“Sorin, Elena’s brother, came by today. He told me some things you really need to know.” Vicki sighed. One of the ladies at the far table looked angry, and it was probably because her waitress still stood at the bar waiting for her to make the drink. “After I’m done, Nash. There won’t be a lull in here until we kick everyone out to clean up.” “It’s important, Vicki.” “It will have to wait.” Nash sighed. “Fine. I’ll just hang out here and wait.” He looked around the bar and found an empty seat. Of course, it had to be next to the most gorgeous woman in the bar. Just

my luck, Vicki thought. The next hour passed in a blur of emotions. Jealousy, as the blonde-headed twit hit mercilessly on Nash, and love, as he ignored the woman and had eyes only for her. Her magic wasn’t happy, and it begged to be unleashed on the Barbie doll.

Vicki, love. Do you know what I want to do to you when we get home? Shivers raced up her spine at his low, sexy tone. Nash. I’m working. Not now.

I want to spread you out on my bed and lick you from head to toe, and then -Nash! I said, not now. I’m going to suck on your clit and slip my finger in your tight, hot, wet -She gasped as her core tightened around nothing but air. Nash!

And then I’m going to suck on your breasts, pinch and bite your nipples, while I ram my hard, thick -Dammit, Nash! Vicki shifted her weight from leg to leg, trying to ignore the ache between her thighs.

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If you don’t like that, maybe I should start with your toes and suck on them, slipping my tongue in between each one as I -Vicki burst into giggles, and he stopped speaking in her mind immediately.

You have no idea how ticklish my feet are. If you wanna get laid, don’t even go there. Then I’d slide my hands up your silky calves and thighs to your moist center, where I’d spread you open and feast on you. You taste like luscious fruit. I could eat you and eat you and -I get the picture, Nash. Too much. You have to stop. I need to talk to you. But you don’t need to talk dirty to me while I’m working. That’s debatable. Nash grinned and pushed his empty glass toward her. “I need a refill, love.” “I love your accent,” the blonde said as she leaned into Nash. “Where are you from?” “He’s taken.” Vicki growled before she could stop herself. “Ooooo. But he hasn’t said that he’s taken. Why should I listen to you?” “Because she’s right. She’s my fiancée. I came in to see if she could leave early.” Nash slid his hand over the bar and covered Vicki’s. “You didn’t tell us you got engaged. Hell, honey. It’s almost closing, anyway. Get your hunk and go enjoy the rest of your night,” Teresa said as she closed the register. “You’ve covered for all of us at one time or another. We can handle the last hour.” “Thanks so much.” Nash grinned. When Vicki tried to tug her hand free, he tightened his grip. Resigned, she tugged off her apron and handed it to Teresa. “I guess I’ll see you tomorrow.” “Have a good night, you two!” Teresa smiled and ushered them out before Vicki could think of a protest.

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Vicki tugged her jacket on and shoved her hands into her pockets in an attempt not to touch him, but after that dirty talk earlier, not touching him was the last thing on her mind. Nash wrapped his arm around her and walked with her down the nearly deserted street. “So what did you need to talk to me about?” Vicki asked. “There are so many things you need to know. Let me take you back to my place, and we can talk.” Vicki shook her head. “No. My place. We won’t talk if we go to yours.” Nash laughed, but he nodded. “Hold on tight, love.” By the time she blinked, they were in her living room. Thankful for small miracles, she stepped away from him and sat down. Without warning the front door slammed off its hinges and crashed on the floor. Nash jumped, putting his body between hers and whoever was there. “We came for the witch. We don’t want to hurt you. Just step aside.” “She’s mine. You can’t have her,” Nash growled as her magic woke. While she appreciated his protection, she could take care of herself. He’d trained her. Sort of. She should be able to take them out and release the excess magic without killing herself or Nash in the process. The sound of broken glass was the answer to Nash’s declaration. Vicki peeked around his shoulder as men streamed through her open doorway and windows. “How dare you invade my home! Why are you here?” she screamed as power raced through her veins. “We’re not going to hurt you. We want you to be our queen.” “Yeah, that’s why you have fifty armed men trashing my house!” “When we learned you were with him, we knew there’d be problems.” A good-looking man stepped in front of the others. He was tall and blond and built like a wrestler. Did he have all brawn and no brains too?

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“What the hell are you talking about, be your queen? Whose bright idea is that? This is how you convince a woman to be your queen? Stake out her house and then attempt to destroy it? Not to mention threatening my boyfriend! I don’t think so, buster. Who the hell are you, anyway?”

We need to leave, Vicki. There are too many to fight, even with magic. Screw that. It’s my house. “We’ll explain everything. Tell you anything you want to know. Come with us now, and you will rule as our queen. With your power you can rule the world.” “Power? I have no power.” “We know of your power, milady. Of the abilities you have.” Vicki’s eyes narrowed. “Are you the ones responsible for the all the attacks on me?” “We had to test you. To make sure it was really you.” “So you sent men after me knowing I could hurt them? Did you even know if I knew how to control my powers?” “We could help you learn how to control them better, how to use them more effectively. You can do incredible things with our support. You belong with us. Come.” Vicki laughed and grabbed onto Nash’s shoulders. “Yeah, that’ll be the day.” The man narrowed his eyes and pointed his finger at her. “You’re making the wrong choice. You could have come peacefully.” “I don’t have to go anywhere with you at all.” She stepped next to Nash and put her hands on her hips. “You’ll be better off with us than him. At least with us you’d have a choice. We would let you rule instead of ruling you.” Nash shook his head. “You think she’s stupid enough to fall for your lies? It’s obvious you would try to control her. Look at the way you have forced yourself into her life. You

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want to use her power to rule the world. And your boss is too chicken shit to come after her himself.” “He’ll be here. Victoire just returned too early.” “You have my answer. I don’t want to be with you, whoever you are. Your hopes and plans don’t matter. I want you out of my home. Only a psycho would be willing to sacrifice five lives to test me to see if I really had magic.” “You are worth more than five lives, your highness.” The hair on the back of her neck rose at his comment. Her magic didn’t like him, and she didn’t, either. “You will leave my house, or I will destroy you all.” “He only wants you for your power too. If you come with us, you will live forever as our queen.” “If she goes with you, she will be used and abused and left to die.” Nash pulled two swords out of midair. Before she could be impressed, several of the men rushed at Nash with swords. Several others came at her. In the ensuing scuffle, they managed to form a barrier between her and Nash, despite his attempts to fight them off. Cries of pain and screams of agony filled the air. Victoire struggled to see Nash through the men crowding her, but saw only the flashes of light reflecting off their swords. “Come with us, milady. We will spare your lover, if you come with us now.” Victoire wanted to scream. How dare they do this! She was supposed to pick between giving them her power and Nash? Of course, she’d give her life for Nash, but she wouldn’t -couldn’t risk the fate of the world just to save him. If only there was a way for her to fight them. Nash had his swords and was doing some damage, but he was severely outnumbered. His determination to protect her would cause his death. She couldn’t allow that. But what could she do? Fire.

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Vicki concentrated on picturing a fire surrounding them, keeping her and Nash safe while preventing the psychos from coming near them. A fire erupted, all right -- one that nearly engulfed the living room in flames. Immediately, smoke filled the room as flames flickered against the walls and furniture. One of the men close to her reached out and grabbed on to her hair. He began dragging her away from Nash. She screamed and tried to pull free. She watched in slow motion as Nash turned at her scream and took a blade in his shoulder. As if he didn’t feel it, he reached for her, only to have three of the attackers jump on him and knock him to the ground. “No!” Vicki screamed. Magic flared and burst out from her, burning everything in its path. She closed her eyes as the firestorm engulfed the room in unquenchable flames. When the flames finally stopped, her living room was mostly ash, as were the attackers who hadn’t fled. Nash was nowhere to be seen. Oh, dear Goddess, had she killed Nash too? Vicki dropped to her knees and wrapped her arms around her waist as tears fell freely. Nash had warned her she needed to train. But she hadn’t listened. She thought she could control it. Just like she controlled everything else in her life. Looking around the charred room, she couldn’t even summon the strength to appreciate what she’d done. She’d saved herself. But not the man she loved. Pain ripped through her, and she raised her face to the sky and screamed. He’d died because of her. He’d died to save her. But weren’t fae supposed to be immortal? “You can kill us.” “Nic?” Vicki gasped as she looked up at the man in the doorway and cried even harder, sobs racking her body as she stared at her dead lover’s twin. “How did you read my mind? And how’d you get here? Why didn’t you get here fast enough to save him?” “I can read your mind courtesy of that little blowjob you gave me in the kitchen. Don’t think I didn’t enjoy it, but there was a reason I didn’t stop you. Times like now it comes in handy.”

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“Why didn’t you come and save him?” “I found him!” Elena shouted, and Vicki spun around. She hadn’t even seen Elena, and who was the tall, dark man with her?

Found him? She found Nash! Vicki stumbled to her feet and hurried over to where Elena knelt. Nic joined them, and they pushed piles of ash off of what turned out to be Nash. He was covered in blood, but still alive. Fresh tears streaked down her cheeks as she threw herself on him and buried her face in his neck. Nash moaned, but one of his arms moved slightly so that it was almost around her. Vicki fought back tears. That was a stupid thing to do! You should have protected

yourself, not me. I thought I’d killed you. I love you more than life itself. Do you still not understand? Even Nash’s thoughts were weak. “Vicki,” Elena scolded as she grabbed her shoulders. “Let the poor man breathe. How bad are his injuries? Do you want me to turn him?” “No!” Vicki and Nic shouted at the same time. “Let me.” A vampire pushed his way to Nash and turned him over. He looked so much like Elena that he had to be Sorin. He studied the heavily bleeding wound and licked his lips. “You smell mighty tasty, Nash.” “Help yourself. I don’t need it anymore.” “What!” Vicki shrieked. Nash turned his head and winked. She growled and shook her head. “How the hell can you joke at a time like this?” “Easy, love. I know you’re safe. Sorin is just teasing, anyway.”

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“Vicki and the babies are safe,” Nic said. Vicki turned and glared at Nic. “What babies?” “Yours and Nash’s --” he said as Elena elbowed him in the stomach. “Excuse me?” “Shit.” Nic looked at Nash then back at her. “Didn’t he tell you?” “I’m not pregnant.” “Yes, you are. Twins. Both boys. They’re going to give you as many headaches as their father does.” Sorin covered Nash’s wound with his palms. As he chanted, a soft white light spread from his hands and covered Nash’s shoulder. “Why didn’t Nash tell me?” “I tried, love. Remember when I asked you to leave work so we could discuss a few things? And then we were so rudely interrupted by those rogues you so skillfully dealt with.” Nash hissed and then sighed when Sorin pressed his palms to his chest, and the healing white light appeared there as well. As she covered her belly with her hands, she felt her magic answer and knew what she should have figured out earlier. She was pregnant. Twins. Oh, Goddess.

***** “So, what about Sorin?” Vicki asked as she lay snuggled with Nash in his bed. “What about him?” Nash kissed her neck, sending shivers up her spine. “Do you think he’s right when he says they’ll leave me alone?” “For now, I do. But it won’t be long before they try to get you again.” Nash nuzzled her neck. “Nash!”

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He sighed and pulled back, but didn’t release her. “Sorin says it’s bigger than we thought. The ones who were after you were misled by their leader. They wanted your power, but they really wanted to keep you and me apart.” “But why?” “I wonder if that was why Lucian went after Elena. Perhaps he was a pawn like the ones who came after you. Sorin had a vision, and he sees you, me, Nic, and Elena all facing something really terrible. He says there are two more in the vision. Another woman, but he hasn’t seen her face yet. The three of you are the key. That’s all he’ll tell me.” “It might be all he knows. Do you think he’s next?” “Next for what?” He licked the spot over her carotid, then gently bit it. Vicki moaned, as liquid desire coated her from his attentions. Nash slid his hands down to her waist and rubbed his thumbs against her pelvic bones. “Nash,” she gasped as her legs instinctively opened for him. “Do you really think we’re safe for now?” “I do. I trust Sorin with my life. In fact, he’s saved my life.” “I know. It just seems too simple. Too easy.” “But it’s not. We need to prepare. Sorin wants me to work with you every day. He wants you at your maximum capabilities before we have to face what’s coming.” Vicki shivered and closed her eyes. “I love you.” “I know.” Nash’s sigh tickled her ear before he nibbled on the sensitive part. “I love you too.”

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“I know.” He grinned as he kissed his way down her body. When he reached her clit, he sucked on it while he slipped his finger into her canal. “Does this mean we’re done talking now?” “Yes,” Vicki moaned and licked her lips as she looked up at him. “I want you, Nash. Now.” He grinned. “Good, because I can’t wait any longer.” With long, slow movements, Nash made love to her, going deeper with each stroke. “Handfast with me, Vicki.” “Okay.” She arched her back, fingers digging into the blankets. “Okay?” “Yes.” She moaned as he stilled inside her. “Don’t stop, Nash. Please, don’t ever stop.” “I’ll never stop loving you.” With one hard, quick thrust, he sent her over the edge, and she screamed as her body tightened down on him. Faster and faster, he rammed into her, until he groaned and dropped his head on her shoulder. “Will the transformation hurt?” “Gods, woman. Don’t you ever rest?” Vicki laughed and slid her hands down his back and cupped his firm ass cheeks. “Where’s the fun in that?” “I don’t know anyone who’s gone through the transformation. All I can think is that because you were fae in a past life, you were somehow able to conceive with me. It’s weird, and I really don’t know how it happened, but it makes us even more blessed.” “Do you think we’ll be ready to face whatever it is that Sorin sees coming?” “Yes, love. Nic found his love. I’ve found mine. It makes sense that Sorin is next.” Nash rolled over, bringing her with him.

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“But he doesn’t think so. Is it because he’s vampire, and both you and Nic are fae?” “Yes, love. Now can we rest? We begin your training, again, in the morning.” “Only if you let me tie you up tonight.” Nash growled and tugged her even closer. “Damn, woman, you’re insatiable.” “Only as insatiable as you.” “May the gods help us when you become full fae.” Vicki laughed and nipped at his lower lip as she straddled him. “May they help you.”

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Michelle Hasker Michelle Hasker has been writing for three years. She is a member of Romance Writers of America and the Fantasy, Futuristic and Paranormal chapter of RWA. She loves vampires and things that go bump in the night, so it’s no wonder her creations are truly paranormal. While most people only dream of finding love, Michelle's characters find it, but in the most unexpected places. Michelle lives in Pennsylvania with her husband, children, black lab mix, bunny, and overactive imagination. Visit Michelle on the Web at www.michellehasker.com.