Saving Mandy

Night Runner Werewolves 3

Saving Mandy Mandy Garland's father skipped town, leaving her mother alone to raise her. When Decker Royce locates her missing father, Mandy thinks she's found the one man she can trust. Jimmy Lingo knows Mandy's his true mate and has sent her dreams of six men who pledge both their bodies and their hearts to her. But Mandy's father is a girl's worst nightmare. Owing thousands from gambling losses, her father is under the thumb of a rival werewolf pack and isn't above selling Mandy to the leader to pay his debt. Determined to save Mandy from marriage to the other pack's leader, Jimmy takes her to the Matheson Ranch, but the rival werewolf refuses to give her up. A battle for love and money brings the truth to the surface. Will Mandy sacrifice her happiness to save her father? Or will she accept Jimmy's love and become a Night Runner werewolf? Note: The heroine of each book will mate with the pack but will end up with one alpha hero. Each hero in the pack will take his own mate in subsequent books. Note: There is no sexual relationship or touching for titillation between or among the men. Genre: Ménage a Trois/Quatre, Paranormal, Vampires/Werewolves Length: 35,812 words

SAVING MANDY Night Runner Werewolves 3

Beverly Rae

LOVEXTREME

Siren Publishing, Inc. www.SirenPublishing.com

ABOUT THE E-BOOK YOU HAVE PURCHASED: Your non-refundable purchase of this e-book allows you to only ONE LEGAL copy for your own personal reading on your own personal computer or device. You do not have resell or distribution rights without the prior written permission of both the publisher and the copyright owner of this book. This book cannot be copied in any format, sold, or otherwise transferred from your computer to another through upload to a file sharing peer to peer program, for free or for a fee, or as a prize in any contest. Such action is illegal and in violation of the U.S. Copyright Law. Distribution of this e-book, in whole or in part, online, offline, in print or in any way or any other method currently known or yet to be invented, is forbidden. If you do not want this book anymore, you must delete it from your computer. WARNING: The unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this copyrighted work is illegal. Criminal copyright infringement, including infringement without monetary gain, is investigated by the FBI and is punishable by up to 5 years in federal prison and a fine of $250,000. If you find a Siren-BookStrand e-book being sold or shared illegally, please let us know at [email protected]

A SIREN PUBLISHING BOOK IMPRINT: LoveXtreme

SAVING MANDY Copyright © 2012 by Beverly Rae E-book ISBN: 1-61926-497-8 First E-book Publication: March 2012 Cover design by Jinger Heaston All art and logo copyright © 2012 by Siren Publishing, Inc. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED: This literary work may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, including electronic or photographic reproduction, in whole or in part, without express written permission. All characters and events in this book are fictitious. Any resemblance to actual persons living or dead is strictly coincidental.

PUBLISHER Siren Publishing, Inc. www.SirenPublishing.com

Letter to Readers Dear Readers, If you have purchased this copy of Saving Mandy by Beverly Rae from BookStrand.com or its official distributors, thank you. Also, thank you for not sharing your copy of this book.

Regarding E-book Piracy This book is copyrighted intellectual property. No other individual or group has resale rights, auction rights, membership rights, sharing rights, or any kind of rights to sell or to give away a copy of this book. The author and the publisher work very hard to bring our paying readers high-quality reading entertainment. This is Beverly Rae’s livelihood. It’s fair and simple. Please respect Ms. Rae’s right to earn a living from her work. Amanda Hilton, Publisher www.SirenPublishing.com www.BookStrand.com

SAVING MANDY Night Runner Werewolves 3 BEVERLY RAE Copyright © 2012

Chapter One Jimmy Lingo, youngest member of the Night Runner Werewolves, gazed at the lovely young woman sleeping in her bed. Her long, black hair spread over the white pillowcase like fingers spreading out to touch him. Her chest rose and fell with her slumber, and he wished she didn’t have the covers pulled over her body. Almost as though she’d heard his thoughts, she kicked the bedspread off, exposing her bare legs. The sleep shirt she wore rode above her waist and, for the first time ever, Jimmy understood how even simple cotton panties could turn a man on. “She’s beautiful. Amazing.” “You might say she’s awesome, huh?” Ranlon Skylark bumped against Jimmy, a grin taking up most of the older werewolf’s face. Jimmy shot him a look and took a step into the shadows separating their physical world at the Matheson Ranch just outside Lost Hills, Texas, from the world of dreams. The mist surrounded him, blinding him for a second. Then, taking a breath, he concentrated and pushed through the swirling darkness to find himself standing at the foot of her bed. Ranlon, Nick Rogers, and William Cage followed behind him. “I wish this was real.” Although he could come to her in her

8

Beverly Rae

dreams and experience being with her, emotionally and sexually, he knew it was only his essence she felt and not his actual body. “If all goes as planned, it’ll be real soon enough.” Nick sauntered to the other side of the bed. “She’s hot, that’s for sure.” “What’s her name? Where is this place? What town does she live in?” He glanced around the bedroom. Soft-green-painted walls held the background for the mishmash of furniture. Dolls and assorted stuffed animals from her childhood watched from a nearby shelf while photographs of friends and family dotted the walls. She stood proudly holding a diploma in one picture, but he couldn’t make out the name of the school. Could the photo be a memento of high school graduation? Or had she already completed college? “Why hasn’t she come to find me?” Jimmy took a tentative step closer, ready to come to her as he’d done in all her dreams for several weeks. “I don’t get the sense that she’s anywhere near me. Can’t we draw her to me like we did with Sara? Can’t we dream her to us?” “You know that was different.” Ranlon’s dark eyes flashed with irritation. “We called Sara to us to become our alpha-female, the one we share until we find our one mate. Even after we take a mate, we can choose to return to Sara.” Nick laughed. “Providing our mate doesn’t mind, of course. Plus, there’s always the initiation of new females into the pack. Once Sara and we approve, then the pack will welcome the prospective mate into our shared bed. You know it’s our way. Always has been, always will be.” William, the oldest pack member, shook his head. “These dreams may not be calling her to you, but they’ll help her recognize the special connection you share once she does come. And she will come. I don’t understand the why or how of it, but we always find our mate.” “Why can’t we let her remember our faces?” Jimmy hated the whine in his voice, but he was desperate. If she didn’t come to him soon he’d blow a fuse.

Saving Mandy

9

“You know why.” Jimmy’s impatience didn’t seem to bother William. “A werewolf’s future mate has to connect emotionally first, with her heart, not with her eyes. Take it easy. She’ll come to you soon enough.” “Until then, what are we waiting for?” Nick wiggled his eyebrows at Jimmy. “Unless you’d rather bed her alone this time?” Jimmy thought about it as he’d done so many times before. He wanted her alone, couldn’t wait to make her his, but having other pack members in the dream would make it easier for her to accept them when the time came to explain the pack’s ways. Besides, he wanted the pack’s approval even before she came. Keeping her alone, just the two of them, would have to wait. He sat on the bed and saw her eyelids flutter. Taking her hand, he waited until the Ranlon and William took their place beside her and laid their hands on her arm. Nick eased onto the bed on the other side and rested his hand on her leg. She flinched, then settled down and let out a small sigh. Jimmy nodded then closed his eyes, giving his spirit to the dream. “We’re here.” Waking, Mandy inhaled, bringing in the familiar scent. Keeping her eyes closed, she stretched her arms out, not knowing where they were, only that they were near. Beside her. On her bed. You came back. “Of course we did. I’ll never leave you.” She had to open her eyes then. She had to see the blond hair of the young man who came with the other men. His hazel eyes latched onto her, making her aware of her sleep shirt around her waist, the simple white panties she wore. He returned her smile, his eyes changing until flecks of amber overcame the green and brown. Glancing around, she took in the two men next to him, then the one on her right side. Every time was the same. Four incredible, hot men, their faces intent, their eyes blazing with lust, their naked bodies

10

Beverly Rae

ready to pleasure her. She blushed, knowing it was ridiculous to do so. This wasn’t the first time they’d taken her. She shivered, excitement coursing through her belly. She loved how tender yet forceful they were. Loved feeling controlled yet in control. Take me again. The young one, the one she liked best, leaned over to press his lips to hers. She sighed, enjoying the first move in their dance. The kiss grew more urgent, his lips pushing against hers, and his tongue thrust inside her mouth. She moaned and wrapped her hands around his neck. Sliding his hand under her shirt to take her breast, he lay beside her, continuing to kiss her until she wondered if she’d ever draw another breath. At last, he broke apart, moving to nibble on the skin where her neck curved to her shoulder. The man to her right eased onto the bed and slipped his hands under her panties. The older man, the one with piercing blue eyes, tugged off her panties and tossed them away. “Taste her.” The voice of the red-haired man, filled with humor and desire, rumbled through her and she waited. Hoping. Eager. The oldest of the group, although youthful in his own right, pushed on the blond man’s shoulder. “Go on.” The blond moved to ease between her legs. Running his tongue over his lips, he settled between her legs, his amber gaze locked on her face. Slowly, as though teasing her, he lowered his head and blew air on her pussy lips. She gasped and reached for him but came up short. With a wicked grin, he slicked his tongue along her folds. Heat, hotter than the sun of a hot summer day, blazed into her core. Swirling the growing climax, the scorching fire spun outward to tremble through her legs. Please. Suck on me. Her plea was meant for one and for all of them. She wanted their

Saving Mandy

11

mouths, hands, and teeth on her body. If she didn’t get what she needed, she’d explode into a million pieces. The older man took his shaft in his hand and started pumping. He rubbed her leg, caressing her thigh in a way that was both reassuring and sensual. The redhead brought his tongue to her nipple, flicked it once, then twice, then covered it with his mouth. The other man groaned then followed his friend’s example. Together, they nibbled and sucked on her tits. But even their combined attention couldn’t hold anything to the amber-eyed man between her legs. Taking her legs over his shoulders, he crushed his mouth to her pussy. She threw her head back, her hands flailing, looking to hold on to anything that would keep her on the bed. She closed her eyes and let the sensations flow over her. Teeth nibbled at her breasts, on her leg, and on the sensitive nub. Sounds of pleasure, of possessiveness rushed over her until she couldn’t tell one man from the other. Her body tingled under their hands, their mouths, their tongues. She bucked, an orgasm pummeling out of her as the man trapped her clit between his teeth. He whipped his tongue back and forth, tantalizing the already tortured nub until she writhed to get away. She tried to get loose, needing a moment to breathe, but was pleased when he wouldn’t set her free. When he left her, leaving cold air to chill her pussy, she opened her eyes, ready to plead for him to return. Instead, her words caught in her throat. The redhead took her arm and tugged her, bringing her to a sitting position. Taking her by the arms, the blond got to his knees then leaned back until she could sit on top of his legs. She reached for his cock, but the redhead and another man grabbed her arms. Instead, they stood, bringing their shafts level with her eyes. She licked her lips and took their cocks in her hands. The blond teased her, rubbing his engorged member against her

12

Beverly Rae

pussy. She mewled a sound of anguish and silently begged him to take her. “Ride me, babe.” She almost cried in relief. She paused, took a breath, then slid him inside her. The thickness of him made her catch her breath, and she had to will herself not to tense up. “Breathe. Just breathe.” The older man, on his knees, settled behind her and enveloped her in his arms. He fondled her breasts as he nibbled on her shoulder and urged her to pump the other men harder. Her hair bounced around her shoulders, and she did as he told her, working their cocks, one inside her, the others in her hands, harder still. The blond man gripped her hips, driving into her time and again. Her vaginal walls enclosed him, holding him, promising to never let him go. “I want to fuck your ass.” She never thought twice about the request from the oldest man. Releasing the other men’s shafts, she leaned forward, pushed the blond man to his back, and rested her hands on his hard, muscled chest. He pulled her hair to one side and arched to flick his tongue over her nipple. She was ready, not needing any preparation for his entry. Yet, the man behind her licked her, preparing her. She let a growl escape, wanting him to hurry. With a groan, he eased into her. She closed her eyes again, unable to do anything more than experience the sensations ripping through her. The man beside her ran his hands over her body, cupping then slapping her buttocks, massaging her clit then moving to caress her elsewhere. A larger climax shuddered outward from her core and, without warning, she lost the strength in her arms. It didn’t matter. The men, her men, kept her upright to continue the delicious agony. The soft yet granite-like chest under her palms tightened, and she opened her eyes, wanting to see his climax. His eyes were closed, a

Saving Mandy

13

look of pure concentration mixed with delight brightening his face. Tensing, he froze. She held her breath then lost it again to the pounding of his heart under her palm. Growling, he slammed into her, roaring his release. The man behind her gripped her breasts, squeezing them, his arms ribbons of steel surrounding her. He laid his forehead on her shoulder, moaned, then pulled out as his climax broke free. They let go of her, allowing her to fall on top of the blond one. Her cheek pressed against the dampness of his chest, and she drew in his scent. The hot, spicy aroma filled her nostrils, and she committed it to memory. She vowed she could find him by his scent alone. “We’re here for you. Just waiting. Open your heart and search for us.” She tried to push herself up but failed. Then, when he wrapped his arms around her, she didn’t want to try again. Are you real? Who are you? How do I find you? Tell me where to go and I’ll go there. “You’ll find us if you look with your heart. All you have to do is try. We need you. We want you to be one of us.” The blond man ran his hand over her hair, stroking her. His heart had slowed down, but his grip hadn’t lessened. “I need you. Hurry.” The men lifted her from him, laying her on her back and covering her with the sheet. The blond man touched her cheek then pressed his lips to hers in a quick, gentle kiss. Ignoring her protests, he slid off the bed and took his place next to his friends. Please, don’t go. Not yet. His soft smile almost broke her heart. Suddenly, with a nod at the others, his body changed, blurring until she couldn’t see him any longer. She sat up, pulling the sheet to her chin. She wiped her eyes and squinted, trying to clear her vision. The blurry images kept morphing, fur sliding over skin, bones dissolving into different angles. Although she’d seen the same thing every night, she was still amazed.

14

Beverly Rae

Four wolves, one red, one brown, one black, and one with yellow fur stared back at her. With a swish of his tail, the yellow wolf whirled around and led the other wolves into the darkness. Mandy woke with the sun streaming through the blinds and her phone ringing on the bedside table. “Damn it.” If she’d thought she could return to the dream, she would’ve ignored the phone and gone back to sleep. But going back to sleep never worked. Once the men left her, they were gone until the next night. Still, she paused, searching her mind, but, as always, came up empty. Why couldn’t she remember what her dream men looked like? Cursing under her breath, she grabbed the incessant phone. “Who the hell is calling me so early in the morning?” “Mandy Garland! Watch your language.” In an instant, she transformed into the five-year-old girl who’d broken her mother’s one and only bottle of perfume. “Oh, Mom. Sorry. I, uh, just woke up.” Her mother let her off the hook. “Are you sleeping well, honey?” If having sex with four hunky men meant she was sleeping well, then yeah, she was. But she wasn’t about to tell her mother about the dreams. “I’m fine, Mom. Really. You don’t need to check on me every morning.” Her mother’s need to hear her voice at the start of the day was a standing joke between them. “You know my friends think it’s weird, don’t you? I mean, I’ve been on my own for two years now.” “Well, it’s just too bad their mothers don’t care about them as much as I care about you. Of course, if you’d rather I stopped…” Here we go again. The same old routine every morning. She laughed, wanting to let her mother know she didn’t care what her friends thought. Truth was, she liked having her mother call her. “You know I don’t.” She paused, biting her lip before launching into the conversation her mother always tried to avoid. Lately, however, she’d pushed harder as though realizing the time was now

Saving Mandy

15

or never. “Look, Mom, I know you don’t want to have anything to do with him, but I really want to do this. My father left us—” “He left me, not you.” “Okay, okay. Your husband left you a long time ago. But maybe he’s gotten help since then. Maybe he’s better.” “He was a drunk and a gambler back then, and he’ll always be a drunk and a gambler. The man will never change. Mark my words.” Her mother’s voice went up in pitch, irritation clouding her usual good humor. “Maybe, but I still want to get to know him.” She had to form her own opinion of him. “If he’s as terrible as you say he is, then I’ll turn around and come home. But I want this chance, Mom. I want a chance to get to know my father. Won’t you please reconsider and tell me where he is?” She’d never forced the issue, never once tried to hire an investigator of her own because she valued her mother’s opinion and trusted her judgment. Her mother, however, had surprised her when, after years of refusing to do so, she’d announced that she’d located her runaway husband. She’d even introduced Mandy to the man who’d found him. Yet no amount of begging or cajoling could get her mother or Decker Royce to tell her where to find Glen Garland. “Fine. I’ll tell you.” The defeat, the sadness in her mother’s tone was unmistakable, but she couldn’t give up. Stunned, Mandy struggled to believe her ears. “You will? Really?” “Yes. I will. But you know Decker’s not going to like you traipsing off without him. Why not take him along? If it weren’t for him, we wouldn’t know where your father was.” She glanced at the photo of Decker and her, arms linked, on their first date. He’d been very kind to both her and her mother, even helping her mother find a better-paying job and paying her mother’s overdue bills. “Because I want to do this myself. Alone. Besides, Decker and I don’t see eye to eye on this.”

16

Beverly Rae

“He cares for you, honey, and doesn’t want to see you hurt. I would think you’d appreciate his concern. He’s done more for us than your father ever did.” Mandy bit back the retort springing to her mouth. She couldn’t deny that her father had made major mistakes, but she still didn’t like hearing her mother bad-mouth him. “True. But he’s acting more possessive lately and making me uneasy.” She didn’t add that he’d already mentioned a possible future together. If her mother found out, she’d do her best to push her into a wedding. The only problem was she wasn’t sure if her mother liked Decker as a person or because he’d helped them so much. Instead, she started to ask what had changed her mind, but decided not to press her good luck. Tears welled in her eyes. Her mother had given her everything, raising her most of her life as a single mother. Now she’d given her what she wanted most. “Oh, Mom. Thank you.” “I’ll text you the address, but you have to promise me one thing.” Just a simple text and her wish would come true. “Anything. You name it.” She grinned, the excitement in her voice spilling into her tone. “You have to promise that when you meet him, if you meet him, you’ll give him a swift kick in the ass for me.” “Mom! I can’t believe you said that.” “Just promise me.” Laughing, Mandy clicked open the text her mother had just sent her. “I promise. Thanks, Mom. Oh, and Mom?” “Yes?” “I love you always and forever, no matter what.” “Me, too, honey. Me, too.” Mandy clicked the call off and stared at the three words that could change her life. Okay. Now I know where to find him. Lost Hills, Texas, here I come.

Saving Mandy

17

Chapter Two “Yeah, I remember what you told me.” Jimmy winced at the tone in Michael Matheson’s voice booming through his cell phone. The alpha-male of the Night Runner pack was upset that he’d snuck into town without telling anyone where he’d gone. Worse, it wasn’t the first time he’d done it, going against the wishes of the rest of the pack. But he’d had no choice. He sensed she was near and couldn’t stand the idea of waiting another day or even another minute to meet her. “Then get your ass back to the ranch.” Jimmy gave the answer that would infuriate Michael even more. “Not happening, bro.” “Don’t call me bro.” A curse word followed, then a pause before Michael spoke again. “Jimmy, you know how the town feels about us. Especially after the killer werebear. Have you forgotten the beating they gave you?” He glanced around, noting the stares and frowns of the townspeople. Most of the residents of the small Texas town had heard the stories about the Matheson Ranch and the men and women who lived there. And, unfortunately, some of them believed the stories about werewolves. “You think I’d forget something like that? Besides, a lot of time has passed since then and things have cooled down.” He mumbled a curse word, realizing the man closest to him could hear the irritation in his tone, if not the words. He walked away, careful to keep his stride easy and natural. No need to stir up trouble with an attitude. “Look, kid, I know what you’re doing, who you’re waiting for, but why not let it happen on its own time? We’ll hear if someone new,

18

Beverly Rae

especially a pretty woman, comes into town.” “I’m not too sure we would. In any case, I don’t want to risk missing her. She’s coming. I can feel it.” Michael’s silence said more than his words ever could. Every werewolf could sense when his mate was near and Jimmy was no different. “Fine. But be careful. And be back before nightfall. We’re running tonight.” Jimmy smothered a grin. “Will do, boss.” “Don’t call me boss.” “Okay, bro.” A growl brought the smothered grin to the surface. Sometimes he couldn’t help but bait Michael. “Jimmy, I’m warning you.” “Check you later, dude.” He ended the call on the heels of Michael’s curse and slid the phone into his back pocket. Too many eyes fixed on him made him nervous. Maybe he could keep watch and out of sight beside Sherri’s Hair Salon. From there, he could see the daily bus arrival and most of the traffic going through town. “Where are you?” He leaned against the wall and hooked his thumbs in his pockets. If only he knew her name. Although the dreams could take the pack to her, they hadn’t revealed her name or location. But she was coming. He could feel it in his bones. Ten minutes later and Jimmy was sure he’d died and gone to heaven. The girl exiting the bus was perfect. Her long, black hair shone under the bright Texas sun as she thanked the driver handing her a suitcase, then scanned first one way, then the other down the main street. Although he was several feet away, he could see the freckles speckled across her nose and the turned-up corners of her soft, pouty mouth. She was everything she’d been in the dreams and more. The blue skirt she wore wrapped around her legs, highlighting the long, strong legs and firm buttocks. The white sleeveless blouse was

Saving Mandy

19

anything but sensual, yet on her, the simple shirt was the sexiest thing he’d ever seen. The curves of her full, perfect-for-his-hands breasts shot his lust higher, egging him to take her in front of the entire town. He growled, the sound catching the attention of an older man. Jimmy swallowed a second growl. Without thinking of how he’d greet her, he broke into long strides, getting halfway to her before he had the presence of mind to slow down. Take it easy, man. You’ll scare her to death if you run up on her. He forced himself into a casual stroll, his gaze fixed on the beautiful woman he planned to claim as his mate. He shoved his hands in his pockets to keep from grabbing her, throwing her over his shoulder, and sprinting the ten miles to the Matheson Ranch. “Hi.” Good. Keep your voice light and friendly. Emerald eyes locked onto him and he thought for a moment that his heart had stopped. Interest sparkled in the green depths along with intelligence and kindness. “Hi.” She brushed back her hair and honored him with a smile. “You’re new in town, aren’t you? I saw you get off the bus.” He covered his wince. Damn. Could I sound any creepier? Stalkerish much? She blinked before narrowing her eyes. “I am. So only new people get off the bus?” She was playing with him and he liked it. He shrugged, trying to appear nonchalant. “Ninety-nine-point-nine percent of the time. You’re also carrying a suitcase, which is a dead giveaway, and we don’t get many visitors. In fact, I’m not sure why the bus company bothers coming through here anymore.” He hurried on and stuck out his hand. “Not that I’m not happy to meet you. I’m Jimmy Lingo. Welcome to Lost Hills.” She took his hand, her delicate fingers wrapping part of the way around his large hand. The sizzle rippling into him made him check his skin for signs of burning. She did the same then lifted her gaze to his.

20

Beverly Rae

It was true what the pack said. Their bodies recognized each other. Better, she felt it, too. “Thanks. I’m Mandy.” She pulled her hand from his. “Where you from, Mandy?” Her name fit his mouth, and he ached to say it again. “Oklahoma City.” She’d been a few hundred miles away. If only he’d known. “Maybe you can help me find someone.” “Sure thing, Mandy.” Down, boy. Keep it loose. “Who’re you looking for?” Please, let her say my name. He swallowed and pushed the silly fantasy out of his mind. She’d just met him, so why would she say his name? “His name is Glen Garland.” He’d heard the name before. The man was a drunk and a gambler. His benders in Dallas and other cities always cost him what little money he had and often landed him in the local jail. Why would someone as terrific as her want to talk to a man like him? “Uh, are you sure? I mean, you’re sure that’s his name?” She frowned, her lovely features closing in. “Yes, I’m sure. Why do you ask?” “Well, it’s just that Glen Garland is… I mean, why would anyone like you want to have anything to do with a loser like him?” Fire flashed in her bright green eyes. Fire that scorched him from the outside in. “That loser is my father. I’m Mandy Garland.” **** Mandy glared at Jimmy. Damn, why did he have to be a jerk? Yet even now she wanted to run her fingers through the shoulder-length blond hair then along the strong shoulders and over the muscled chest. He had to be about her age, but most guys her age didn’t have his hard body. Unless they spent way too many hours in the gym, and she had no intention of coming in second to a barbell. But he didn’t strike

Saving Mandy

21

her as the type to be infatuated with the size of his pecs. Besides, his tan spoke of hours in the sun, and his hands were rough from hard labor. “Crap. I’m sorry. I didn’t know.” His contrite answer soothed her, but only a little. “Maybe you shouldn’t talk badly about someone without knowing who you’re talking to first.” “You’re right. Let me make it up to you. How about I help you find your father? Would that make up for my big mouth?” He flashed a smile sexy enough to open any woman’s legs, but she had to keep her mind on finding her father. “Deal. Does he live nearby?” His sheepish expression only ingratiated him further to her. He’s sexy and sweet. What a lethal combination. “Uh, I don’t know where he lives. I mean, I don’t know him very well.” “In a town as small as this one? I’d think everyone would know everyone else.” He paused, apparently to consider his next words. “Well, yeah, we do. But, uh, we’ve only met in passing.” “So you don’t know him well enough to pass judgment then.” She had no idea why she wanted to defend her father. After all, he hadn’t done anything to gain her loyalty. Still, maybe the old adage was true about blood being thicker than water. “You’re right. I’m just going by what others have said.” None of it any good, she’d bet. “Maybe I should find someone else to help me. I don’t suppose you have taxi service here? I have his address.” He laughed, a full, throaty sound to wet her between her legs. Good grief, Mandy. You don’t have time for this. Besides, you have a boyfriend. Think about Decker. She tried, bringing Decker’s rugged face to mind. Yet she’d never had the same primal reaction to her boyfriend that she had to Jimmy.

22

Beverly Rae

Did that mean something? Or was she merely tired from riding a bus for hours? “Lost Hills barely has paved roads, much less a cab. But don’t worry. You’ve got the address so I can lead you there.” He laughed again. “It’s not like we can get lost in a town this size.” “I’d appreciate it.” She glanced around, noting the few cars on the road. “Where’s your car?” Again, his laughed warmed her in hidden places. “I don’t have one.” No car? He can’t mean he doesn’t have a car at all. Who doesn’t own a car in Texas? “You mean you don’t have it with you, right?” “Riiight.” He averted his gaze, giving her the impression he’d kept the whole truth to himself. “I didn’t bring it into town today.” “So you don’t live here?” What was with this guy? One moment he was so open and friendly. Then, in the next, he was guarded. “Naw, I live a few miles out.” He took her suitcase from her, turned, and waited for her to fall into step beside him. “Then how did you get here?” She smiled, trying to make her questioning seem less like an interrogation. “What’d ya do? Run?” He slammed to a stop then made an exaggerated face. “Of course not. Who would run on a hot Texas day? I, uh, hitched a ride into town.” “So you don’t own a car at all? Oh, I’m sorry.” She touched his arm and a tingle zipped into her skin. A tingle as strong and as enticing as the one she’d gotten when she’d shaken his hand. “I didn’t mean that the way it sounded. You know, like you’re weird or something not to own a car.” Damn, but I love his laugh. I bet he gets as many girls as he wants with his laugh alone. “Don’t worry about it. I don’t own a car because I’m putting all my money into school right now. Besides, I like to r—uh, walk.” “You’re in college? Me, too.” She tried to watch him without staring. But the way he moved, easy yet with an underlying edge of

Saving Mandy

23

something wild, drew her attention back. He carried her heavy suitcase as though it were empty instead of crammed with as many clothes as she could fit into it. The jeans and simple cotton T-shirt he wore fit his body in all the right places, not too tight, but close enough to give her a good idea of the lean form underneath. But it was his soft, hazel eyes that took her breath away every time he looked her way. Keep it light. And remember. You have a boyfriend. “What are you studying?” Several people nodded their heads at her, their friendly, open expressions changing to wary ones when their gazes shifted to Jimmy. She watched for a reaction from him, but he didn’t seem to notice. “I’m doing my work online. We don’t have a college within walking distance.” “Sure. Online colleges are very big right now.” Did she sound patronizing? “Have you ever thought about going away to college?” He shook his head. “Nope. I like it here.” They passed by several small shops, their wares displayed in sparkling clear windows with Welcome signs posted on each door. Women, their hair in curlers, spied out the window of the hair salon, their heads bent, their mouths moving at the same time. She gave them a quick wave, and they startled, then waved in return. “Don’t they know we can see in just as good as they can see out?” “What? Who?” He followed the slight tilt of her head. “Oh, them? I don’t think they do. Until you let them know you see them watching you.” His voice had a hitch in it, at once intriguing and worrying her. “Do you get watched a lot?” Not that she could blame the ladies for keeping him in their view. “More than I like.” A comfortable silence fell between them. An easiness she’d never had with Decker. How could a man she’d known for a few minutes make her more relaxed than her boyfriend of several months? With

24

Beverly Rae

Decker, she’d always attributed the nervousness he gave her as a sign of attraction. Yet the attraction she got from Decker was nothing compared to her attraction to Jimmy. Could she have gotten it wrong? He quickened his pace, rounding the corner onto the next block. “Garland’s house is the one at the end of the street.” She forgot about the busybodies, her heart skipping a beat. How many times had she thought about the moment when she’d see her father? Her memories of him were vague—a playful pull on her ponytail, a sharp word when he was “sick” after a long night of “working”—but they’d sustained her for many years. Now that she was about to meet him again, she wasn’t sure she wanted reality to take away the few good memories she had of him. She slowed down, then came to a stop. “Mandy, are you okay?” His hazel eyes darkened, somehow adding points of amber to the green and brown mix. “Uh-huh.” He dropped the suitcase and took her hands. “Are you sure you want to do this?” Was she? Yet if not now, when? She nodded, her words blocked by the sudden lump in her throat. “Then you should prepare yourself.” She searched him, wanting to find the answer to her unspoken question. Was her father really that bad? “He hasn’t maintained the home. Truth is, it’s more of a dump than a house.” She could handle a run-down home. But her father? Could she handle whatever her father was? “Listen. Would you like to take a day or so and give this more thought?” His suggestion startled her. “No. I’ve come too far and waited too long.” She let go of his hands, sucked in a ragged breath, then took a step forward, ready for whatever would come. Jimmy moved with her, taking her by the arm. Again, the

Saving Mandy

25

electricity flowed from him into her skin. “Okay, but before you do…” He leaned forward, catching her off guard and sending her already frayed nerves into overtime. “Would you like to go out tonight? Grab a little dinner? I could borrow a friend’s car and take you to the movies? It’s about an hour’s drive, but worth—” “No.” She hadn’t meant for her refusal to come out so harsh, but she couldn’t take it back now. He jerked backward as though she’d struck him. “Oh.” “I’m sorry. I’m sure you’re a nice guy and all, but I can’t.” She hated to see the way his face dropped, hated not accepting his offer. But what would Decker say? Would she want him going out with other women? I don’t think I’d mind. Wow. Her response surprised her. She wouldn’t mind if Decker didn’t stay exclusive to her. “Can I ask why?” He was persistent, bordering on pushy. “Ask away, if you want. I don’t, however, owe you an explanation.” Damn. If it wasn’t for Decker, she’d say yes in a flash. “You’re right. You don’t.” He touched her cheek, his gaze lingering on her lips. “But I’d still like to know.” His face clouded, sadness enveloping him. “Please tell me you aren’t involved with anyone.” His gaze dropped to her left hand, his body stiffening then relaxing. She wanted nothing more than to press her lips to his, hold her body against his, and wrap her legs around his waist. “Sorry. But yes. I am.” He lifted her left hand and rubbed his thumb over her ringless fourth finger. Turning her hand over, he placed a tender kiss in the middle of her palm. “You’re not married.” Aw, hell. He’s hot and romantic rolled into one hunk of a man. “No. Not yet.”

26

Beverly Rae

“A boyfriend?” “Yes.” For a moment, his body slumped, defeated. “Are you two serious?” Were they serious? Decker seemed to be. But did she want to get serious with Decker? Or was her reluctance the reason why she’d thwarted his advances to have sex? “Kind of.” He straightened to his full height and grinned at her. “You haven’t gone to bed with him, have you?” “Wow, talk about putting your nose in where it doesn’t belong. What I have or have not done with my boyfriend is none of your business.” Then why did she want to tell him that she’d kept things platonic? “I don’t think he’s much of a boyfriend letting you travel to a strange town to meet a father like yours.” He winced at her glare then added, “No offence meant about your dad.” Who was he to criticize Decker? She owed Decker a lot, more than enough to stand up for him now. “He’s a good boyfriend. He treats me right and he’s helped my mother more than anyone ever has. But again, it’s none of your business.” She closed in for the real jab at him. “And for your information, no one lets me do anything. I make my own decisions, and I choose not to go out with you.” “Aw, hell. Looks like I’m always apologizing, but—” “Thank you for your help, but I can go the rest of the way on my own.” She picked up her suitcase where he’d dropped it, steadied it in her hand, and whirled away. Not giving him a chance to argue, she strode down the cracked pavement toward her father’s house. She neared the old home, taking in its run-down condition. Trying not to second-guess her decision, she marched up the rickety steps to the front door. She lifted her hand, ready to knock, then dropped it back to her side. The peeling paint, spiderwebs, and dead grass surrounding the house hadn’t kept her from marching up the uneven stone path to the

Saving Mandy

27

front door. So why couldn’t she knock? Mandy lifted her hand, telling herself she would lift the knocker and do it this time. “Mandy Garland, you’re a coward.” Instead of goading herself into action, saying the words only made them more real. Her life would change once the door opened. But would it change for the better? Or for the worse? What if he was as terrible as Jimmy and her mother said? What if he was still a drunk? What if he didn’t even remember her? For the first time, she regretted not getting in touch with him before traveling to Lost Hills. But she hadn’t wanted to give him a chance to tell her not to come. Problem was, he could still tell her to go home. What then? Determined, she lifted the door knocker and rapped it four times. Chips of paint fell to her feet along with the nail holding one side of the knocker. The rusted piece of metal hung from the remaining screw and rocked back and forth. She waited, letting several minutes pass until she tried again. The knocker gave up the fight and dropped to the warped boards below. “Damn.” She bent to retrieve it just as the door swung open. Bare feet, looking as though they hadn’t seen water in weeks, caught her focus and, for a half a minute, she considered staying in a crouch so she wouldn’t have to face the owner of such filthy feet. “I ain’t buying nothing.” She closed her eyes, gathered her strength, and stood. The smell hit her before her mind could take in the sight of the bedraggled man. Alcohol mixed with tobacco and body odor swept over her, almost bringing her to her knees. Yet the stench was nothing compared to the man himself. Purple-green bruises covered one side of his stubblecovered face and neck. I should’ve stayed down. Oh, my God, his breath. But it was too late. Her father, an older, grimier version of the one photograph her mother had shared with her, glared at her with

28

Beverly Rae

bloodshot eyes. He held a bottle of a clear-colored liquid in one hand and a cigarette caught between the index and middle finger of the other hand. “Are you all right?” “What’re you talking about, girl?” She pointed at his face, at the bruises slowly healing. “What happened to your face?” He grumbled a curse word, then added, “None of your damn business. Like I said, I ain’t buying nothing.” “I’m not selling anything.” He frowned, and the lines in his forehead reminded her of the folds of a shar-pei’s face. Unlike the cuddly dog, he didn’t evoke any emotions of love or happiness. “Then what the hell do you want? If that damn mayor sent you, you can tell him to go to hell. ’Less’n he wants to pay to paint my house and plant my yard.” “The mayor didn’t send me.” She dropped her suitcase, belatedly wondering if the weight of it would take it through the boards to the ground underneath the porch. “I’m Mandy.” The frown deepened. “Yeah? So?” He didn’t know her. But then, she’d been a young child when he’d left. “My name is Mandy Garland.” Still no recognition. He was intoxicated, but she still hoped he had a few brain cells left. At least enough to remember her name. She gritted her teeth, keeping back the angry words. “I’m Mandy Garland. Your daughter.” Her father blinked at her, the frown giving way to a confused expression. “Naw. My Mandy’s a little girl. She lives with her mother in another town. Hell, another state.” My Mandy? Revulsion roiled her stomach. She may have been his Mandy when she was a little girl before he’d left her. But she wasn’t his Mandy now. “I was just a young girl when you left my mother and me. But that was a long time ago. I’m a grown woman now.”

Saving Mandy

29

His stark appraisal scanned her from top to bottom. “Well, well. Look at you. Yeah, you did grow up.” His leer crept into his tone. “You grew up real good, too. I bet you’ve got a pack of horny hounds after you.” She swallowed the bile rising to her throat. “I came to see you. To get to know the father I never had.” He stepped back, holding his hands in front of him, and almost dropped the bottle. “You came to visit me?” “Yes.” She glanced behind him into the dimly lit interior. Papers lay strewn over most of the battered and torn furniture. An older television set flickered in one corner of the small living area. A scrawny cat licked one of the many dirty dishes filled with half-eaten food. “May I come in?” “Fuck, no.” She’d expected many different answers, but she hadn’t expected an outright refusal. “What?” He waved the bottle in the air. “I said, fuck, no. I didn’t ask you to come, and I ain’t asking you to stay.” She caught the door, keeping him from slamming it in her face. “Are you serious? After all these years? After coming all this way, you don’t even want to sit down and talk?” Her goal of knowing the man who’d left her, of finding out about his life and trying to understand him died a quick death. Her mother, Jimmy, and the people of Lost Hills were right. Her father was a loser. “I said no and that’s that. Got it? Now get off my porch and go on home.” He cackled, enjoying her reaction, and pushed her hand off the door. Aiming for her, he flicked his cigarette into the air and shoved the door closed.

30

Beverly Rae

Chapter Three Mandy stared at the door, unable to believe what had happened. Her father had closed the door on her, literally. But what now? Go home and try to forget his rebuke? “I’m sorry, Mandy.” She pivoted toward Jimmy, her mind still refusing to make sense of what had happened. He stood at the bottom of the steps, his face a mask of controlled anger. “He just…I mean, how could he dismiss me like I’m some kind of door-to-door salesperson? Like I mean no more to him than a stranger?” Jimmy came beside her and pulled her to him. She didn’t resist, instead leaning against him for support. The now-familiar tingle speared into her, and she welcomed it like an old friend. A tear streaked down her cheeks, but she hid it from him, keeping her head on his shoulder. His strong arms enveloped her, comforting her, keeping her safer than she’d ever felt. He ran a hand along the back of her head, stroking her as he whispered soft words to soothe her. “It’ll be okay. You’ll be okay.” She closed her eyes, letting her body relax and her mind forget everything except the way Jimmy’s body felt. If she could’ve stayed wrapped in his arms forever, she would have. His gentle kindness gave her what her father had refused to give her. “You’re more than a stranger to him. You’re worse.” As much as she wanted to keep the world at bay, she opened her eyes and moved away, but not out of his arms. She couldn’t break their connection. Not yet. “What do you mean?” He wiped a tear away with his thumb. “Glen Garland’s an

Saving Mandy

31

irritable, nasty coot, but I don’t think he would’ve treated a stranger as badly as he treated you. A stranger wouldn’t have meant enough to him.” She tried to understand, but her brain wouldn’t function. “Are you saying he does care about me?” His eyes softened as though they could ease the blow of his words. “No. Not in the way you want him to. I think seeing you brought up old memories and reminded him of a past he’d rather forget. You’re the physical representation of the worst side of him. Seeing you, acknowledging you, means he has to accept how he treated you and your mother.” She couldn’t help but smile. “Who are you? Lost Hill’s answer to Dr. Phil?” “Well, I am taking a couple of psychology classes.” “And I bet you’re getting As, aren’t you?” He chuckled. “What else would I get?” She wanted to keep joking with him, but the image of her father throwing a cigarette at her brought another round of misery and anger. “I wish I’d picked up that damn cigarette and snubbed it out in his face.” Fury swept from him and into her, surprising her with its intensity. Why did he care so much? “I wanted to shove it down his throat, but I didn’t want to interfere.” His jaw muscle jumped, showing his restraint. “You did the right thing. Although I do like your idea better than mine. Besides, I owe him a swift kick from my mother.” Bending over to take her suitcase, he released her, and she almost wept at the loss of his body next to hers. But her pain didn’t last long as he slid his arm around her waist and led her away from the house. They walked in silence, the hot Texas sun beating down on their backs. Where he led her, she didn’t know or care. She trusted him. More than she trusted everyone else except her mother. More than she trusted Decker. The realization bothered her, sending a fresh wave of

32

Beverly Rae

guilt. How could she trust a man she’d just met? Yet, for some inexplicable reason, she did. Decker had forced her to take this journey on her own, without telling him she was leaving. Why hadn’t he supported her decision to go instead of refusing to discuss the trip any further? But she was too tired, too emotionally drained to think any longer. She dipped her head, concentrated on putting one foot in front of the other, and tried not to relive the awful moment of meeting her father. “Jimmy?” Mandy jerked up her head to find a beautiful woman, her brown hair swept away from her face, her big brown eyes regarding her with curiosity. She exuded a confidence, an understanding of her place in the world that Mandy wished she possessed. “Hi, Sara.” Sara perused her, sliding her attention over Mandy, taking in details. Mandy tugged at her shirt and hoped she looked presentable. She caught a glimpse of Jimmy. The woman meant a lot to him. Her stomach clenched, jealousy making a direct hit. But why should she care if Jimmy and Sara had something going on? “What are you doing in town?” His tone was respectful, yet it held an irritation the respect couldn’t conceal. “I’m just picking up a few things.” Sara reached out her hand to Mandy. “Hi. I’m Sara Hutchinson.” Mandy wiped her hand on her skirt and took Sara’s. “Mandy Garland.” A flicker of realization flashed across Sara’s face. “Any relation to Glen Garland?” “She’s his daughter.” Sara’s eyebrows lifted in surprise. “Really? I didn’t know he had a daughter.” “It’s okay. Not many people do. Although I would’ve thought in a town this size, everyone would know everyone’s business.”

Saving Mandy

33

Sara laughed and waved her hand toward a cluster of homes. “Trust me. They know more than they let on. They’re watching us right now, I bet. But I haven’t lived here very long, so I’m still learning how the town’s gossip mill works.” Her gaze jumped to the road behind her, then back. “Have you seen your father yet?” “She did. Unfortunately, he was his usual charming self.” Jimmy shifted the suitcase to his other hand. “He slammed the door in her face.” Sara’s mouth dropped open. “What? You’re kidding.” Mandy shrugged. “I wish I was. I didn’t expect him to welcome me with open arms, but I had hoped to at least have a civil conversation with him.” The two shared a look Mandy couldn’t interpret. Sara took Mandy’s hand and pulled her alongside her. “Well, don’t give him another thought, okay? At least not for the rest of the day. Tell me. Where are you staying?” Although Mandy guessed Sara was about her age, she acted like an older, wiser person. A person who’d seen more of life like the older sister she’d always wanted. “I’d kind of planned on staying with my father.” Sara shook her head, her hair shifting with the brisk movement. “Even if he’d acted like a decent man, we couldn’t have you staying with him. The man lives like an animal. No offense.” “None taken.” She looked around, wondering for the first time if the town had a motel. “Could you recommend a hotel, Sara? Something very reasonable? I’m, uh, on a strict budget.” They strolled down the sidewalk leading back to the main street until coming to a stop beside a pickup truck. Sara motioned to Jimmy who tossed the suitcase into the bed of the truck. “I sure can. You can stay at our place.” “No, no. I can’t impose.” She couldn’t stay with strangers. Yet hadn’t she been ready to stay with the stranger that was her father? Wait. Their place? Were Jimmy and Sara a couple? A twinge of

34

Beverly Rae

envy hit her. “It’s no trouble.” Sara opened the passenger-side door and motioned for her to get in. “We’d love to have you. Besides, where else are you going to stay?” “Yeah, Mandy. The bus only comes through here once a day. You’re kind of stuck.” Jimmy grinned then offered his hand to help her step up into the cab. She was stuck. Stuck in the middle of west Texas with a father who didn’t want to see her and a man who couldn’t keep his eyes off her. A man she found sexy as hell. Maybe staying in the same house isn’t a good idea. Going against the warning thought, she let the sensations rush over her. His touch left her wanting more, ready to risk throwing caution to the wind. She scooted across the seat, settled next to Sara, who’d hopped into the driver’s side, then waited as Jimmy climbed in. The closeness of him, his arm pressed against hers, flashed heat into her abdomen. A heat spread outward to sear desire into every nerve. She swallowed, unable to remember a time when she’d had such a strong reaction to a man. Fearing she might take what her body wanted, she clasped her hands in her lap and looked straight ahead. Jimmy shifted, moving closer to her, putting his hard thigh against hers. Her mouth dried up and she stiffened, and she tried to keep her mind on other matters. Think about Decker. Think about the weather. Think about anything else. But whatever you do, don’t look. She lost the battle, letting her gaze slide to his crotch. Damn it. Stop it! “So are you and Jimmy a couple?” She had to know, had to squelch her interest. Sara started the engine then gripped the wheel. “No, we’re not involved. Not like that anyway.” Good. Urgh! No. Not good. Come on, Mandy. Knock it off. You didn’t come here to get it on with another man.

Saving Mandy

35

Sara pulled the truck into the street and picked up speed. “We should, however, explain our living situation.” Hell. What had she gotten into? Why had she let her hormones do her thinking? She took her hair and twisted it around her finger. “Please don’t tell me you’re part of a cult.” Sara punched on the radio, and an old country song filled the air. “Hardly. But the Matheson Ranch is a big ranch which means we need a lot of hands to help with the chores.” Mandy let out a sigh. “So it’s a working ranch?” Sara pushed on the accelerator, racing the truck down the deserted stretch of highway. “A hard-working ranch. Michael Matheson runs the place like a slave driver.” Sara cast Jimmy a pointed look. “Jimmy’s never been big on working cattle. He’d rather use his head than his hands.” I wish he’d use his hands on me. Sara groaned, unable to stop the wayward ideas from running rampant. “Right. He told me he’s in college.” She started to relax, their easy way telling her she had nothing to fear. “How many hands do you have?” “I wouldn’t call them ranch hands exactly. Everyone on the ranch is a partner, sharing in the work and the money.” Sara stopped the truck in front of a sign reading Matheson Ranch and nodded to Jimmy. He hopped out, opened the gate for the truck to get through, then closed the gate and snapped the lock closed. He was back in the truck in a few minutes. A gravel road led to the big, two-story home. Windows sparkled in the sunlight, and colorful flowers sprouted from boxes positioned under every window. Another pickup and a sports car rested on the gravel parking lot next to the home. “Here we are. Home, sweet home.” Sara waved as one after another, men burst through the front door and onto the wraparound porch. She twisted, her arm slung over the steering wheel. “Are you ready to meet the others?”

36

Beverly Rae

**** The urge to keep Mandy in the pickup, to keep her all to himself, flooded Jimmy, throwing him a curve. She was his mate. But he respected the law of the pack, the rule that the entire pack would have to approve of his future mate and initiate her into their lives. He inhaled, drawing in her scent mixed with the spicy fragrance of her perfume. Her aroma reminded him of a field of flowers made erotic by the underlying pheromones wafting off her. How he’d managed to keep from taking her, he’d never know. From the first moment, she’d driven him crazy and he’d had no option but to stay near her. She edged forward to take in the men waiting for her. Although he could sense her fear, he could also sense her curiosity. The dreams, the sex of the previous nights made his cock twitch in anticipation. He’d shared her with the others and he’d share her again now that she was here. But once the initiation was over, he’d claim her as his and his alone. “Are you coming?” He jerked out of his reverie to find her searching him, the green of her eyes deepening. “Yeah. Sure.” She smiled, then slid out of the truck on the driver’s side. Shoving the door open, he leapt out, snatched her suitcase out of the back, and fell into step beside Sara and Mandy. “Are you sure this is okay?” He took her hand, a gesture that the others didn’t miss. “I wouldn’t bring you here if it wasn’t okay.” Tossing the suitcase to Ranlon, he added, “Don’t let these animals fool you. Their barks are worse than their bites.” Not the truth, but she wasn’t ready for the truth yet. “Hi.” Michael stepped forward, the first to greet her. “I’m Michael Matheson. Welcome.”

Saving Mandy

37

“I’m Mandy Garland.” Although they tried, the men couldn’t hide their surprise. Jimmy hurried them on, wanting to make things go smoothly for Mandy. “Yeah. Glen Garland’s daughter. Now that we’ve got that over, let’s move on.” “Sure, Jimmy.” Ranlon opened the front door and placed the suitcase inside. “I’m Ranlon Skylark. I guess you’re going to be staying with us? Like one of the pack?” Jimmy shot Ranlon a hard look. “She is.” Sara rested her hands on her hips. “How about we get the introductions out of the way so Mandy and I can get to know each other?” “Good idea.” One by one, Jimmy introduced the men, not letting Mandy talk to any one for longer than a minute. At last, he placed his hand on the small of her back and ushered her inside. Jimmy watched Mandy as she took in his home. Unlike before Sara joined the pack, the large great room was spotless. Light-blue curtains covered each window and big overstuffed furniture tempted visitors to get comfortable. Looking at the house from her point of view gave him a new perspective of his home. Pride welled inside him as he grabbed her bag and started up the stairs. “Follow me, Mandy.” “Hold on, Jimmy. You can take her bag up to the guest room while Mandy and I get acquainted.” Sara looped her arm around the young girl’s. “I bet you’re starved, aren’t you? Come on. Let’s you and me go into the kitchen. I think we have some leftover fried chicken and apple pie Cally made before she left. She’s an up-andcoming songwriter so she travels to Nashville every so often.” Knowing better than to stop Sara once she’d made up her mind, Jimmy hid his grumble and instead, let his gaze drift down Mandy’s back to her firm, round bottom. He tilted his head, enjoying her sexy sway. “Down, boy.” Max Matheson, Michael’s cousin, bumped his fist

38

Beverly Rae

into Jimmy’s shoulder. “If your tongue hangs out any lower, you’ll trip over it.” **** The kitchen was huge but cozy with big windows letting the light from the dimming sunlight spread over the white cabinets, granite countertops, and hardwood floor. Mandy paused, taking in the beautiful view outside a floor-to-ceiling window. “This is amazing.” Sara pulled a tray of fried chicken from the oversized refrigerator. “Thanks. We like it. The original kitchen was fairly small, so we expanded the space last year. Please. Make yourself at home.” Mandy took a seat at the wooden table and counted the chairs. Twelve chairs. One for each of the six men, one for Sara, and one for Cally. So who were the other chairs for? Children? Yet she hadn’t seen any signs of children in the house or on the yard. “I bet you’re worn out from riding on that old bus. Not to mention the rest.” The rest. Like the way her father had refused to have anything to do with her. The weight of the day’s events rested heavily on her shoulders. “Now that you mention it, I’m more exhausted than I thought.” Within a few minutes, Sara placed a plate of warmed-up chicken, an enormous slice of steaming apple pie, and a cup of coffee in front of Mandy. “Sugar? Cream?” “No, thanks. Sara, are you sure this is okay? My barging into your home? I mean, I’m a total stranger.” She’d only asked the question again to be polite. Truth was she already felt at ease in the Matheson household. Sara sipped her coffee while Mandy ate. “I’m positive. We’re happy to have you.” Mandy accepted the sincerity, pleased that she could feel right putting the question to rest once and for all. “And everyone I met

Saving Mandy

39

lives in this house? Are they related to each other…or to you?” “Only Michael and Max are cousins, but the rest of us are very close friends. Very close.” “You mean the kind of friends that you can count on, no matter what?” “Exactly.” Sara looked thoughtful. “Even more than that.” Mandy stared into the black liquid in her cup. What would it be like to have a lot of close friends? Friends that always had your back? “You’re lucky. My mom and I moved around when I was young. I’m not very good at making friends.” “Really? I didn’t get that impression at all.” Sara dipped her head, a soft smile playing on her face. “But you can be lucky, too. If you want it badly enough.” Yet before she could ask Sara what she meant, Sara pushed back her chair. “I think I hear a piece of pie calling my name.” Instead, Mandy asked, “Do you find it hard living with six men?” Sara came back to the table and took a bite before answering. She chewed, covering her mouth with her hand. “Sorry, I couldn’t resist having a taste first. Sure. Sometimes. Even one man can get on a woman’s nerves at one time or another. But six?” She chuckled. “You have no idea. Thankfully, it’s not just me any longer. Having Cally around helps a lot. Sometimes we go into Dallas and treat ourselves to a little girl time away from the pack.” “The pack?” “You know. The bunch of animals we live with.” Hadn’t one of the men called them a pack, too? “I don’t mean to pry, but can I ask? Are you, uh, involved with any of them?” Sara’s brown eyes dove into her as though getting ready to assess her reaction to her answer. “I’m involved with all of them. But Michael and I have a unique bond, a special connection. Much like the one you and Jimmy share.” Mandy choked on her drink then sputtered as she tried to pull herself together. “Jimmy and me? I don’t know what you’re talking

40

Beverly Rae

about.” “Uh-huh.” Sara took another bite then pulled the fork from her mouth with a moan of satisfaction. “I swear. Cally makes the best desserts.” Mandy started to protest, but Jimmy popped into the kitchen, interrupting them. His presence, the sensuality he exuded, derailed her train of thought. She licked her lips. Her stomach flipped over and sent signals to the tender spot between her legs. “Your room’s ready if you’d like to see it.” His grin was a like a high-intensity strobe light beaming into her, diving deeper inside her to surround her heart with golden warmth. She prayed her sex-weakened legs would hold her weight. “I’d love to.” Rising, she followed him up the stairs. One look at the way his bottom moved in his jeans had her dropping her head to watch each step. If she didn’t, she would’ve grabbed his butt and squeezed as hard as she could. “I hope this is okay.” Mandy followed Jimmy into the large room. In the center was an enormous bed, big enough to hold several people. An oversized rustic dresser and two nightstands stood against the walls, while a cozy sofa and square coffee table rested in the middle of the room. Southwestern-style blankets lay on the bed and sofa, while pictures of cowboys herding cattle depicted life on a ranch. She gasped, taking in the three vases of colorful flowers. “This is the guest room?” Jimmy’s forehead furrowed. “Yeah. Is something wrong? Don’t you like it?” “Of course I do. What’s not to like?” She ran a finger over the petal of a white rose. “Do all your guests get such lavish treatment?” He shrugged. “No. But everyone wanted to make you feel at home. You know, comfortable. You’re not allergic to flowers, are you?” She took his arm, felt the now-familiar zip race through her. “No,

Saving Mandy

41

no. I’m crazy about flowers, and these are beautiful. It’s just that it’s so nice. I mean, we just met.” “What can I say? We know when we like someone. Besides, after what happened with your father, we kind of hoped these might help cheer you up.” His amber-flecked eyes dove into her and she had to force herself to move away from him. Still, she couldn’t keep the truth from coming out. “I like all of you, too.” She chuckled. “Weird, huh? Considering I just met everyone.” Remembering how her father had reacted blindsided her, taking a physical toll. She sought out the refuge of the bed and sat on its edge before her legs gave out. “I’ve got to wonder, though, if this is the guest room, what’s the master bedroom look like? Is it the size of a small house?” He laughed and placed her suitcase on top of the coffee table. “We’re Texans, you know. Everything’s big here.” Everything? She looked at his crotch before she realized what she was doing. A rush of heat slid up her neck and into her cheeks. “Um, but when did you have time to do this?” He sat next to her, his body’s warmth tickling the hairs on her arm. She inhaled, loving the musky, masculine scent. Yet underneath the initial aroma lay another, one that made her think of wild, passionate nights under a moonlit sky. “Sara has a garden out back, so the guys and I gathered a few posies and brought them upstairs while you two were in the kitchen.” She bowed her head, touched by their kindness. “Thank you. And tell the others thanks, too.” He nodded then leaned closer to her. They sat together in an easy silence. How could a man make her feel comfortable and on edge at the same time? One minute she was sure she could tell him anything, like a confidant she’d known for years. In the next, his simple presence clawed at her, urging her to rip off his clothes and ride him until he begged her to stop. When had any man ever brought out such

42

Beverly Rae

animalistic tendencies before? She snuck a peek at him from the corner of her eye. The man was testosterone in the flesh. Between his rugged jaw, his blond hair, and a physique most men could only hope for, he was more man than anyone she’d ever met. His friends were hot, too, but he had something extra. Something she couldn’t put a finger on. Something that could drive her insane with need. A need she finally gave into. She clutched his neck, pulling his mouth to hers. At first, he jerked away, but then he answered her need with his own. Groaning, he pushed her down and slid his body over hers. The kiss deepened, his tongue pushing into her mouth, his teeth nibbling at her lips. She took him in, delighting in the flavors that matched the wildness of his scent. He tugged her blouse from the waist of her skirt then slid his hand under the material to her breast. He pulled her bra out of the way then thumbed her already taut nipple and groaned. She tried to inhale, tried to bring his breath inside her. Arching, she gave him her silent consent to do more, to do whatever he wished. He traveled his lips over her cheek, placing feather-light touches, then added his tongue to trace a path along the curve of her neck. She closed her eyes, her pulse racing as he tortured her in his slow descent to her breast. At last, he closed over her nipple, dragging it into his mouth to tease it with a bite then a suck. Wrapping her legs around him, she thrust her pelvis against his. He rose up, looking at her with his intense, amber-flecked eyes, then yanked her skirt out of the way and covered her mons. His touch opened her floodgates, releasing a small orgasm. Keeping his gaze on her, he eased her thong aside, his fingers finding the slit between her folds. Her pussy tightened as though trying to pull him inside her. “I’ve waited for you for so long.” The words, spoken sweetly, almost reverently, were lost in his

Saving Mandy

43

tone. She slid her leg higher and hoped he’d tear the string of material away. She almost cried with joy when he ripped it off her. “Jimmy.” Other words weren’t necessary. Instead, the sizzle, the connection between them gave her so much more. He licked his lips, his eyelids closing part of the way. Desire filled his expression, sending her longing even higher. “Please.” He found her sensitive nub and played it with slow, circular moves. She mewled, the sound coming from a place inside her she hadn’t known existed. Rising, he studied her, his smoldering look of longing heating her skin. One by one he unbuttoned his shirt, exposing a delicious, hard chest leading to a ripped torso. She reached out and slid her fingers over the contours, her nerve endings heightened at the barest of touches. Muscles rippled in his arms as he pulled the shirt off his shoulders then let it fall to the bed. Where wetness heated between her legs, her mouth dried up at the sight of him. “Take off your shirt. Real slow-like.” She smiled. If he wanted a show, she’d give him one. Sitting up, she crossed her arms in front of her, taking the trim of the blouse and inching it higher. He watched her like a hungry lion waiting for its prey. Teasing him, she took her time, letting the material drop, then taking it again to bring it a little higher the next time. “What about you?” Her gaze dropped to his belt buckle then lifted to his face. The sound of his chuckle tightened the ache in her stomach, and he tugged his belt loose. Pulling her shirt over her head, she tossed it to the side and followed it with her bra. He reached for her, skimming his palms along the swell of her breasts. “Hey, don’t stop now. Keep going with the jeans, cowboy.” “I don’t want to stop touching you.” Truth was she didn’t want him to stop either. “Fine. Then let me help you.” One quick pull and his belt joined her blouse on the floor.

44

Beverly Rae

The bulge straining his crotch called to her. “Now for the zipper.” The musical tone of her cell phone started the moment she pulled the flaps of his jeans wide. She groaned and started to reach for her purse resting on the nightstand. “Don’t answer it.” His voice was husky, filled with need. She nodded then started tugging his jeans over his firm, round buttocks. Again, she paused, unable to ignore the incessant music. “I have to get that. It might be my mother.” Sighing, she twisted, grabbed for her purse, and then fished in her bag. Jimmy finished the job she’d started by shucking his jeans off then twirling them once before he hurled them into the air. She giggled then punched the answer button. “Mom?” “Mandy, where the hell are you?” Decker. Guilt hit her, draining the desire from her. Why hadn’t she checked the caller ID first? She put a finger to her lips, widened her eyes, and hope Jimmy would get the message. “Um, I’m on vacation.” Jimmy grabbed her wrist and tried to pull her toward him, but she yanked her arm away. Grabbing her skirt to hold over her naked body, she covered the mouthpiece then hurried off the bed, shaking her head for him to leave her alone. “You went to Lost Hills, didn’t you? I thought we decided going to see your father was a bad idea.” Decker’s tone was level, cold, and unemotional which meant his temper was at the breaking point. If only she hadn’t answered the phone. “No. We didn’t decide anything. You did. I never said I wasn’t going.” Jimmy came to her, slipping his jeans over the rise of his buttocks and raising his hands in question. She waved him off, unable to respond when her hands were full with Decker. Jimmy had to keep quiet. If Decker heard him, he’d arrive by morning. “Damn it, Mandy. You didn’t even let me know you’d left town. I

Saving Mandy

45

had to find out from your mother.” “I know, and I’m sorry.” “Well, what’s done is done. I’ll get there as soon as I—” “Decker, I don’t want you coming here.” Jimmy narrowed his eyes and mouthed his question. “Who’s Decker?” She ignored him. “Hang on a sec, okay?” She had to get Jimmy out of the room both to keep him from saying anything and to keep her conversation with Decker private. Motioning for him to go, she held the phone to her chest and pulled the door open. His confused expression ripped her apart, but she could explain later. Providing he gave her the chance. She watched as he gathered his boots and shirt, and hoped he’d see how sorry she was. He kissed her on the cheek then left the room, glancing back once before she shut the door and returned to the call. “What’s going on? Where exactly are you? I didn’t think the town was big enough for a hotel.” Decker wasn’t going to let this go. His perseverance was one of the things she both liked and disliked about him. The man could be like a dog with a bone. “You’re right. It’s not.” She cringed. She couldn’t tell him where she was. He’d never understand her staying with strangers, especially a bunch of men. And who could blame him? But what other option did she have? She wouldn’t leave town. Not yet. Not without trying again to talk to her father. “Then where are you staying?” The hard edge of his tone, one she’d heard seep into his voice too many times in the past few weeks, set her on edge. “I’m staying with my father.” Liar, liar. Pants on fire. The silence on the other end of the phone unnerved her. He didn’t believe her. But then why should he when it was a lie? Sometimes she

46

Beverly Rae

wished she was a better liar. “So you and your father are getting along?” Suspicion laced his words. “Yeah. We’re doing okay.” She bit her lower lip. Lies and more lies. But what else could she do? “Good. I’m happy for you.” Aw, crap. Did he have to be sweet about it? “Thanks. So you see, you don’t have any reason to come here. In fact, it might be better. You know. My father and I need some alone time.” Decker shouted at one of the many men who worked for him then came back to the conversation. “Okay. We’ll do this your way for now. But check in often so your mom doesn’t worry.” Her guilt pounded into her stomach, forming a knot the size of a baseball. Decker had his faults, many of which she found difficult, but he had good traits, too. Like thinking about her mother. She glanced at the closed door, her mind jumping to what she’d almost done with Jimmy. Yet the twinge of her pussy tightening at the memory of Jimmy’s hard chest leading to the narrow hips and the bulge in his pants overshadowed her guilt. What was it about Jimmy that had her dropping her panties so fast? Sure, he was sexy as hell, but he held an indefinable lure for her. A lure that came from a place deep inside her. Almost as though she’d always known him and would one day find him. “Mandy?” “Yeah?” She put her back to the door, shoving her thoughts of Jimmy away. “You’re alone, right? I mean, other than your father?” “Of course I am.” She bit her lip and added to the growing mound of lies. “It’s just me and my father.”

Saving Mandy

47

Chapter Four Mandy crossed her arms and gazed out the window of the guest bedroom. The land surrounding the Matheson home spread out as far as she could see. Thickets and small brush dotted the landscape along with a few clusters of trees. She sighed, unable to shake the tension stiffening her neck. She hated lying to Decker, but she couldn’t have him barging into town and taking over. Lately, he’d grown more possessive and even controlling. Not for the first time, she reconsidered their relationship. Was Decker the one? The answer came swift and hard. No. But what surprised her even more was the image of Jimmy coming straight after her denial of Decker. She rested her forearms on the windowsill then placed her chin on top of her arms. Her mind wandered, taking her in another direction. What if she was meant to be with someone else? Again, Jimmy’s face took over, followed by the faces of his friends. Why would she think of them? She barely knew Jimmy, much less the rest. Could Jimmy be the one? She tried out the same answer she’d given for Decker. But her denial wouldn’t come. Instead, the truth won out. Maybe. Surprised and a little unnerved by her reaction, she turned and slipped into the huge bed. What she really needed was rest. Tomorrow was soon enough to think about her problems and the men in her life. Decker, her father, Jimmy, and the other men of Matheson Ranch.

48

Beverly Rae

They could wait until the morning. Pulling the soft comforter around her, she nestled into the bed and closed her eyes. “We’re here.” Mandy inhaled, bringing in the familiar scent. Déjà vu struck her. She’d heard the words before, felt the same sensations. And yet, something was different. As she always did, she kept her eyes closed, knowing they were near. Closer than ever before. You’re here again. “We’re here because you want us here.” When she opened her eyes, she would see them, clearer than ever before. Her gaze found him, his body leaning over hers, a soft smile playing on his lips. Jimmy. His gaze slid down her body, flecks of amber shining in his eyes as his look grew more heated. She ached to run her hand over his hard, flat stomach, to glide it over the valleys and hills to the slender waist. Once there, she’d pause then trace the crease between his crotch and his leg down to the impressive shaft. Already she could feel the way his muscles would undulate under her touch, the heat from his body scorching into her skin. Wait. How had she gotten naked when she’d gone to sleep in a Tshirt and panties? Nick and Ranlon sat on her other side, their hands already skimming over her arm, her leg. William moved next to Jimmy and took her other leg. The four naked, magnificent men locked their gazes on her, their amber-flecked eyes searing into her as though they wanted to eat her alive. She trembled at the idea. As though he’d heard her thought, Jimmy slid down her body, dipping his head to take a nip here, a lick there. She reached out, for Jimmy, for someone. Nick caught her hand and brought it to his cock.

Saving Mandy

49

Yet she couldn’t take her attention away from Jimmy. “Spread your legs for me, babe.” William and Ranlon helped her, massaging her thighs as she opened for Jimmy. The touch of Jimmy’s tongue on her folds jerked her up, but Ranlon’s hand on her breast pushed her back down. “Take it easy,” he whispered. Lust and anticipation whipped the excitement in her belly. She wanted the men, all of them. Please, Jimmy. He chuckled, the warm air tickling her almost as much as his fingers pulling her folds apart to expose her clit. The men held her legs apart while the others explored her breasts, the swell of her stomach. She shook from the need to have him taste her. Jimmy pressed his lips to her pussy and sucked, driving her into a quick orgasm. She cried out and took William’s shaft in hand. Stroking William and Nick, she arched her back, offering her nipple to Ranlon again. Jimmy stroked her, using his tongue first then his thumbs. She jerked, the flood of passion rippling into her like a tsunami. She rode the crest of the wave and opened her mouth in a silent scream of pleasure. He held on to her by moving his hands under her to grab her buttocks. “Now, Jimmy.” Nick licked his lips. Her breath hitched in her throat, and her heart picked up speed to pound a rhythm against her chest. Jimmy rose, lifted her legs, and placed them on top of his mountainous shoulders. Nick swept a hand through her hair, making her look at him. “Relax. We would never hurt you.” Murmuring tender endearments, Jimmy pushed his cock to her pussy, then slid inside. She inhaled, shocked at the width and length of him, then drove everything other than the pleasurable sensations out of her mind. Her body reacted without thinking, her hips moving

50

Beverly Rae

against his. She closed her eyes, wanting to feel their touches, hear their whispers. Her body shook, taking each wave of release as it spread outward from her core. She moaned, pumping the cocks filling her hands faster, harder. Needing to see his face as he climaxed, she opened her eyes. Each masculine face was filled with a primordial look of unbridled lust. Yet each of their features mixed with another emotion. Adoration? Reverence? Maybe even…love? Pausing, Jimmy dropped one leg to twist her onto her side then slammed into her again. “William needs you, too.” She nodded then gazed into Nick’s face and saw what he wanted. She drew his shaft inside her mouth and delighted in the ecstasy on his face as he watched her. William leaned over to sweep his tongue along the crack in her butt. She flinched then forced herself to breath evenly. “Don’t worry, Mandy. I’ll take it slow.” William rubbed a cool gel over and inside her anus then pressed his cock against her tender ring muscles. Gently, he pushed inside her. Her stomach tightened as both men worked their cocks inside her. Matching their pace, she pumped Nick and took Ranlon’s shaft in her hand. Silence, broken only by their quick breaths and soft moans, surrounded them. She let the myriad of emotions flow through her, not caring to understand the why or how of anything. She only cared that she was what they wanted. And she wanted them just as much. The orgasm, powerful and overwhelming, broke free. Her body shuddered then trembled, darkness threatening to take her, but she held on. Jimmy’s groan mixed with Ranlon’s as the men, their bodies tightening and jerking, turned loose. Nick and William joined them, climaxing hard and fast. The men slumped around her, their harsh pants deeper versions of her own. “Jimmy. Make her yours.” She didn’t grasp the meaning behind Ranlon’s words. Looking to

Saving Mandy

51

Jimmy for an answer, she watched as he put his weight on his hands and knees then crawled on top of her. “We’re here for you, Mandy.” Jimmy’s words didn’t make sense, but they touched her nonetheless. How long had she yearned to hear those words? “But why? You don’t even know me.” Ranlon pressed a kiss to her palm in the same moment William touched her cheek. “Because you’re meant to be one of us. Like Sara and Cally.” Jimmy caressed her with his hands and his eyes. “Do you want to become one of us?” She nodded before she’d taken time to wonder at his question. Tell me how. “Are you sure?” Please. Make me yours. But how? Jimmy glanced at the other men then back at her. His amberflecked eyes sparkled. “Like this.” His face blurred then changed. Fangs erupted from Jimmy’s gums as he leaned closer, his breath blowing a wisp of her hair away from her forehead. Mandy’s heart thudded in her chest even as she reached for him, welcoming him in his different form. She turned her head, offering her neck to him. A roar ripped the air as Jimmy’s body was flung from hers. His friends howled their rage, their bodies evaporating until she could no longer see them. She struggled to sit up, but strange men, men who’d never come to her in her dreams, held her down, keeping her where they wanted her. Decker moved out of the surrounding mist to stand at the edge of the bed, his body looming over her. His face contorted as fangs grew and fur spread over his nude body. “You’re mine. Not his.” No. She fought against the men but was no match.

52

Beverly Rae

Jimmy. Where’s Jimmy? “He’s gone.” Decker’s wolf face pulled back into an evil grin. “You’re mine, bitch. You always have been and you always will be.” Saliva dripped from his mouth as he opened wide and howled. She screamed, yet no sound came out. Laughing, Decker bent over her and sank his fangs into her neck. Mandy sat up, her heart racing, her eyes wide. The dreams had never been like that. She’d never awakened in fear. Had never felt anything but yearning to keep the dream going. She closed her eyes tight, just like she’d done so many times before, and tried to remember their faces. Yet she could remember only one. But why had Decker entered her dream? And why in such a horrible way? “Mandy!” She trembled as she hurried out of bed toward the sound of Jimmy’s voice. Flinging the curtains aside, she found him, standing underneath her window and holding the reins of two horses. Relief flooded her, weakening her knees. She gripped the edge of the window and waved to him. “Open your window!” She flipped the latch and shoved the window open. “Why are you yelling under my window? Why not just knock on my door?” She wished he’d come earlier. Then maybe she wouldn’t have had the horrible dream. He grinned, looking sheepish. “Sorry. I guess we’re used to being loud around here. Anyway, how fast can you get dressed?” She ran a hand through her hair, suddenly wishing she’d taken a moment to brush her hair. “I haven’t even had a shower, much less breakfast.” He motioned to the backpack strapped to the bigger horse. “Don’t worry about either of those things. I packed a breakfast for our ride.” “Our ride?” She hadn’t been on a horse since she was a kid. “I

Saving Mandy

53

don’t know. I’m not exactly the cowgirl type. Besides, I must look awful.” “Aw, don’t worry. Rocky’s a gentle thing and he doesn’t spook easy.” He cocked his head to the side. “You look amazing this morning. Then again, you always look amazing.” The compliment scored a hit, softening her heart. The man had a way with words. That was for sure. “Plus, you’re going to want a shower after the ride anyway.” Great. Not only would she start out looking like hell, she would stink afterwards. She started to refuse, but his longing expression tugged at her heartstrings. “Okay. Give me a few minutes.” “No problem. The horses and I won’t budge an inch until we see your sweet smile.” She spun around and headed for the bathroom. Once at the door, however, she froze to gawk at the room. “Holy cow.” Bigger in size than most bathrooms, it held a massive whirlpool tub as well as an automated shower with rainfall showerheads. Beautiful gold trim accented granite countertops and mahogany cabinets. “This is the best bathroom I’ve ever seen.” But she wasn’t the best she’d ever seen. Her hair sprouted from every angle on her head and smudges of mascara darkened the skin under her eyes. How could he tell her she looked good? Was his eyesight bad? Or, more likely, was he just being kind? She looked amazing, all right. Amazingly bad. No way was she letting him see her up close. Throwing cabinets open, she found shampoo and the fluffy oversized towels. After a few moments of learning the system, she hopped into the shower and let the warm water flow over her. She stood, transfixed, positive she was having another dream. The shower heads struck her from every side, massaging her muscles. But she needed to hurry. Promising to take an hour-long shower once she returned, she rubbed her body and hair down with the towel and rushed to pull on some clothes. Her favorite jeans hugged her in

54

Beverly Rae

all the right places and the green halter top clung to her still-damp skin. Luckily, she’d thought to pack her favorite pair of running shoes. Dashing from the room, she hurried down the stairs while watching her step and almost ran headlong into Michael. She clung to the railing to help her stop in time. “Whoa. Slow down. You almost wiped out your breakfast.” He held up the tray, calling her attention to a plate of pancakes dripping in syrup and butter, a large glass of orange juice, and a smaller plate of bacon and sausage. A single sunflower lay on top of a white napkin. “My breakfast?” Her stomach rumbled at the sight. “Yeah and it sounds like you need this.” He pivoted, heading back to the kitchen. “I guess the breakfast-in-bed idea is shot, though, so I’ll just put this on the kitchen table.” “No. Wait.” His dark eyes found hers and, for a moment, she wanted nothing more than to please him. She might have still been staring at him if Ranlon and Nick hadn’t burst through the kitchen door, breaking her focus. “Hey, she’s up.” Ranlon grinned, moving to her side and slipping an arm around her waist. His grip made her wonder how his touch would feel on another, more sensitive part of her body. She inhaled, drawing in his musky scent. Although his scent was different from Jimmy’s, it had the same underlying edge of wildness she found enticing. She took them in, the three of them perfect examples of sexy men with their broad shoulders that led to lean hips and strong legs. Yet each was different, possessing a quality of his own. A rush of yearning swept through her. What if, like in her dreams, she could have men like these make love to her? She swallowed, her pussy clenching with need. Nick slapped Michael on the back. “See? I told you we were

Saving Mandy

55

taking too long to get her food.” “Yeah, well, if you hadn’t burned the first batch of pancakes we would’ve gotten it ready sooner.” Michael motioned toward the kitchen. “Ready to eat, Mandy?” “You did all this for me?” She glanced from one man to the next. What was it about these guys that made her heart pound faster? “Sure. We want you to feel welcome here.” She fought back the tears at Ranlon’s words. He’d made the statement sound casual, but to her, it meant so much more. “So that’s what’s taking you so long.” Jimmy’s appearance had them swiveling toward the front door. The same desire she had for the other men rushed through her, but harder, faster. If she had to choose just one, it would be Jimmy. But who said she had to choose? Wow. She giggled, intrigued by the possibility. Surprised by her wicked thoughts, she strode over to Jimmy and gave him a kiss on the cheek. “Hey, we’re the ones who fixed you breakfast.” Jimmy laughed at Nick’s protest and took her hand. “Didn’t you notice me filling containers with food? I’m taking Mandy on a picnic breakfast.” “Then we won’t need this. Here.” Michael gave the tray to Nick, pushing it against his chest. “No, you won’t.” Jimmy hooked her hand around his elbow. “Ready to do this?” Having more than one man pay attention to her was a first. A first she could get used to. “Ready.” **** She’d never thought of Texas as a beautiful place before coming to the Matheson Ranch. Gazing over the flat land toward the sloping hills beyond, she had to rethink her opinion. Or maybe it was the

56

Beverly Rae

company that had her sighing at the tumbleweeds and thickets of brush. She wrapped her arms around her knees, content to sit on the Southwestern-style blanket Jimmy had spread out for the picnic and watch the fluffy white clouds roll by. “Did you get enough to eat?” She chuckled and shot him a funny look. “Are you kidding me? Pancakes, strawberries, bacon, sausage, melon, and even champagne? You brought enough food to feed a small army much less fill me up. But thank you. This was great.” She smiled at him, reaching out to touch his hand. “You’re very thoughtful. All of you have made me feel very…accepted.” Where had she come up with that word? Yet, she had to admit, the word fit. “But I’m the most thoughtful one of all, right?” Who could resist him? He combined the qualities of a hot man with a lighthearted boyishness she found endearing and very sexy. “Yes, you are. But don’t tell the others, okay? I wouldn’t want their feelings hurt.” He scoffed then shook his head. “Feelings? What feelings? They’re just a bunch of animals.” Why did everyone refer to them as animals? “Maybe so. But they’re a pretty great bunch of animals, if you ask me.” He drank the last of his champagne, his hazel eyes growing warm. “Yeah. They really are. But I’ll deny that I ever said so.” He leaned closer, rubbing his shoulder against hers. The familiar zing of excitement spiraled inside her stomach. Licking her lips to wet them, she bowed her head then gazed at him through lowered eyelashes. Shifting to face her, he hooked his finger under her chin and lifted her face. She forgot about the land around them, forgot about the other men. Nothing existed except Jimmy. Light danced in his eyes as he moved closer and pressed his mouth to hers. Tender at first, he swept the tip of his tongue between her lips. She moaned, a small sound she barely heard, then met his

Saving Mandy

57

kiss with more force when he cupped his hand behind her neck. He nibbled at the corner of her mouth then flicked his tongue over the spot as though he’d harmed her. Pulling her close, he slid his tongue inside her mouth and moaned. The sound and warmth of his moan entered her, and she drank it in, reveling at his tastes. He lowered her to the blanket, his lips never leaving hers. Skimming his hand under her top, he pushed her bra aside and cupped her breast. She arched, urging him to do more than use his hand. She looked into the sky and tunneled her fingers through the hair at the nape of his neck. “You’re more beautiful than I ever imagined.” Had he imagined her? Or someone like her? But it didn’t matter. What mattered was that she was with him now. She gasped as he slid his tongue over her breast then sucked in her nipple. Whipping his tongue around the taut bud, he sent flares of delight spreading outward from the tip of her breast. Echoing flares erupted between her legs, and she let her bent leg fall to the side. Snort! Jimmy jerked away from her, his eyes scanning the area behind them. Several bushes grouped together to form a dense thicket. “What’s the matter?” He cupped his hand over her mouth, shook his head, then pulled her to a sitting position. Motioning for her to keep her voice low, he whispered, “Get dressed and listen.” She did, straining her ears to hear what he obviously heard. At last, she shook her head. Keeping his voice low, he stood, taking her with him. “I want you to get on your horse and start back the way we came.” Her breath caught in her throat as the tension stiffened her body. “Are we in danger?” “Hogs.” “You mean like pigs?” How could a pig put them in danger? “Wild hogs. With long tusks that can tear you apart. They don’t

58

Beverly Rae

think twice about attacking people.” “Oh.” She took his arm. “You’re coming with me, right?” “No. Just do as I say.” He took her arms and gave her a little push in the right direction. “But—” One more look at his face told her not to argue. Nodding, she hurried over to the two horses that were tied to a large thicket of bushes. Untying her horse’s reins, she slipped her foot into the stirrup and hopped onto Rocky’s back. Jimmy dug into his backpack lying next to the picnic basket and pulled out a long, sharp knife. She stared at the blade, her mind wondering if it was a Bowie knife. He turned back to her and scowled. “Go. Now.” She pulled on the reins and took one last look at Jimmy. Within a second, he disappeared into the underbrush. Yet instead of leaving, she sat, unsure what to do. How could she leave him alone? What if the hog attacked him? What if he was injured so badly he couldn’t catch up with her? No. She couldn’t, wouldn’t leave him alone. A wolf’s howl split the air around her, followed by something crashing through the bush. Rocky pranced, and she pulled back on the reins as Jimmy had taught her to keep the horse from bolting. “Easy, boy. It’s okay.” Where was he? Did the hog attack him? Or a wolf? “Jimmy? Are you okay?” A crash to the side of her made her crane her head around, leaning off-center on top of the horse. A huge, black boar burst through the bushes, charging directly at her. A yellow wolf, twice the size of a regular wolf, its fangs bared, nipped at the boar’s heels. The boar squealed then swerved at the last moment to narrowly miss running into Rocky. The horse reared, kicking out with its front legs. “Whoa!” Mandy lurched for the saddle horn but missed and fell off the back of the horse. Her breath burst from her and pain seared into her back and leg as she hit the hard ground. Rocky whinnied then

Saving Mandy

59

whipped around and took off running, throwing dirt into the air. Out of breath, she struggled to a sitting position and waited for the world to stop spinning. In the fog of her dizziness, she saw the wolf whirl around, stare at her, then take a couple of steps in her direction. Blood dripped down one of his legs, but she knew he could still jump her, his claws and fangs shredding her skin. “Get out of here!” She had no clue if a wolf would be frightened away by a shout, but she couldn’t think of anything else to do. Hell, she could barely think at all with the pain. The wolf tilted his head to the side, his gaze locked on her. She stared at him, her pain momentarily forgotten. Searching for an unknown something, she stared, entranced by the intelligence she saw in his amber eyes. Without understanding why, she reached out, drawn to him. Suddenly, he whimpered then spun around to scamper off after the boar. “Shit, shit, shit.” Shaking her head to help clear her mind, she wiped the dirt from her face and hair then ran a hand along her leg. A trail of pain traveled up her leg from the agony in her ankle. Praying the danger was over, she tried to keep the panic at bay. “Jimmy? Where are you? Can you hear me?” A tear slid down her throat, but she told herself it was from the searing sting and not from her worry for Jimmy. She waited, hoping to hear his voice, but she heard nothing. At least the boar and wolf seemed to have gone out of earshot. She gritted her teeth against the stabbing ache and managed to stand. Keeping her weight off the foot, she hopped over to Jimmy’s horse, Ranger. “At least you stayed tied. I’d hate to think what we’d do without at least one horse to get us home.” “Let’s hope so.” She jolted and whirled to face Jimmy. He stood at the edge of the brush, his clothes torn and blood running down one arm.

60

Beverly Rae

Chapter Five “Jimmy.” Mandy clung to Ranger, resting her weight against the horse. “You’re hurt.” “I am?” He glanced at his arm then shrugged. “It’s only a scratch. But that damn boar knocked the knife out of my hand then tried to take my head off. If I hadn’t—” He shook his head, his gaze traveling the length of her to land on her foot. “Looks like you’re the one who’s hurt. Is it bad?” “No.” She moved, tried putting her injured foot down, and winced. “Okay, a little. My ankle isn’t swelling, so nothing’s broken. I must’ve just twisted it.” “What happened? I thought I told you to get out of here.” He hadn’t expected her to stay, much less to be in the way during the chase. But part of the blame belonged to him. If he’d only managed to herd the boar in the other direction, she wouldn’t have been in harm’s way. “I tried but the pig startled my horse and sent me flying before he tore off. Oh, my God, Jimmy. A wolf was chasing the pig. A really big wolf. Plus, there was something about him, something different.” She blew out a ragged breath. “Thank goodness you didn’t run into that thing.” That thing. Would she think the same way if she knew he was the wolf? He slid his arm under hers then around her waist to help boost her onto the horse. “A wolf, huh?” She grabbed the saddle horn and pulled into the saddle. “Are there lots of wolves around here?” He tucked his head so she wouldn’t see his smile. “More than

Saving Mandy

61

you’d think.” Taking care not to pull her off, he swung onto the rear of the horse and settled in behind her. “What do we do about Rocky? Is he in danger? You know, from the wolves?” She turned to face him with her eyes wide. “Don’t wolves travel in packs?” “Most, yeah. But Rocky’s probably already halfway home by now.” He clicked to Ranger and kicked him lightly with his heels. “Which is where we need to be so someone can look at your cankle. Uh, I mean ankle.” “Tell me you didn’t just say that.” He laughed at her shocked face and motioned for her to face forward. “Just kidding. Now hang on.” He clucked at the horse, breaking into a full gallop. Mandy squealed and clung to the saddle horn, leaving him to take over the reins. He leaned against her, using the excuse of handling the horse to get closer. Her long, satin-black hair whipped in his face, the wind blowing her sweet scent to him. He flexed his arms, enjoying the way her body fit against his, her soft curves a counterpart to his hard muscles. He thrust his pelvis forward and wished the end of the saddle didn’t separate them. She bounced in the saddle, showing her inexperience as a rider. Still, peering over her shoulder gave him a great view of her breasts bouncing with the rhythm of the horse’s movements. Was anything better than riding a strong horse with a beautiful woman? Maybe one thing. He closed his eyes, imagining Mandy in her wolf form as they ran side by side during a moonlit night. Although he never wanted to see her hurt, he was almost glad she’d gotten thrown so they could ride double. Randy sidestepped, jerking them, and Mandy let out a yelp. He tightened his hold on her, his forearm pushing into the soft curves of her breasts. “Riding a horse at a gallop is like riding a roller coaster. Just go with the motion. If you fight it, you’re going to end up landing on your butt.”

62

Beverly Rae

“Oh, no. Not again.” “Don’t worry. I won’t let anything hurt you.” She glanced over her shoulder and gave him a hopeful expression. “You promise?” “On my life.” Thirty minutes later, they could see the ranch house. The rest of the pack, including Sara, stood on the front porch. Ranlon waved at them then headed toward the barn with Rocky, who had, as predicted, made it home before them. Jimmy reined in the horse, dismounted, and then helped Mandy slide off, taking care not to let her put weight on her injured foot. He scooped her into his arms and started up the front steps. Sara stayed by his side while Michael ran ahead, opening doors. Sara motioned for Jimmy to take her upstairs. “What happened?” “We’ve got a wild boar problem.” Jimmy paused, waiting for Sara to open the double doors into the guest bedroom. “Damn it. I thought I saw some tracks close to the house.” Michael pulled out a cell phone. “I’m calling in the hoggers now.” “Why bother when we can take of the problem?” Ranlon rushed by him, carrying a medical kit. Jimmy settled Mandy on top of the bed, then stepped aside as Sara took the kit from Ranlon. After giving him orders to fetch a cold compress, she sat beside Mandy and eased off her running shoe. Mandy winced but didn’t cry out as Sara examined her, gently pressing around her ankle. “You mean there’s more than one pig?” Jimmy smothered a smile. Pig wasn’t the right term, and since he hadn’t corrected her before, he didn’t think he should now. “When there’s a boar, there’s usually a sow. And probably a mess of babies.” “Which means we’re going to have one hell of a good cookout.” Nick sauntered over to the other side of the bed. “If we bother to cook them.” “You’d better warn them about the wolf, too.” Mandy flinched,

Saving Mandy

63

jerking her foot away from Sara. Apologizing, she let Sara take her foot again to continue the examination. Jimmy met the telling looks of the others, and a silent message passed between them. He didn’t have to tell them that he was the wolf she’d seen. “I don’t think one lone wolf is reason for alarm.” “Michael’s right. Besides, the wolf was after the hog. If we had enough wolves, we wouldn’t have a hog problem.” Jimmy flashed Nick a warning look. “But right now, let’s concentrate on you.” “The kid’s right.” William stood by the door with Max peeking in over his shoulder. “Do you need anything else, Sara?” Sara returned the materials into the medical kit. “Her ankle doesn’t look sprained, much less broken. It’s not even swelling.” “Then I brought this for nothing?” Ranlon stalked past William to toss the bag of frozen peas onto the bed. Jimmy eased Sara out of the way and sat next to Mandy. “Let’s pack it anyway just in case. Everyone, I think I can take this from here.” “Aw, come on, Jimmy. Maybe Mandy wants our company.” Nick hooked an arm around Ranlon’s neck and shot a wolfish grin to the other men, egging them to join in. “Yeah. Besides, let’s let Mandy decide who she wants to stay.” William, forever one to compromise, lifted his eyebrows. “So what’s it going to be, Mandy? Just Jimmy? Or do the rest of us get to spend time with you?” Jimmy’s lip lifted in a silent snarl. One that Mandy couldn’t see with his head turned to glare at William. He wanted her alone. Granted, if she joined the pack, she’d take them into her bed for the initiation, but that was for later. Her green eyes sparkled as she moved her gaze over them, stopping to rest briefly on each man. Her expression changed slightly, softening, growing timid, then shifting back to an open perusal of William. At last, she fixed her focus on Jimmy.

64

Beverly Rae

“I appreciate everyone’s help, but if you don’t mind, I’d like just Jimmy to stay.” Sara patted her leg then flapped her hands, shooing the others from the room. “You heard her. Jimmy stays.” She paused after getting rid of the men and asked, “How about we give you two about an hour or so? Then I’ll have one of the men bring up something to eat or drink.” “Sara, you don’t have to do that. I can come to the kitchen later. I’m sure my foot will be fine after I rest it a bit.” Sara shook her head. “Girl, if you’re going to stay with us you need to learn to take TLC whenever you can get it. If the men are willing to wait on you hand and foot, then lie back and enjoy it.” Sara winked, turned on her heel, and left. “TLC?” Jimmy took her hand and enjoyed the warmth traveling from her hand into his. “Tender, loving care. I want to give you exactly that. So tell me. What can I do to make you more comfortable?” She dipped her chin then glanced up at him, shyness softening her expression. “All of you have made me feel more comfortable, more accepted than anyone ever has. You’d better be careful. Keep it up, and I might not want to leave.” He searched her, seeking the sincerity behind the teasing lilt of her tone, and found it. Still, he couldn’t find the words he wanted to say. Instead, he chuckled and added, only half-joking, “I just might not let you leave.” She studied him in return, surprise taking away some of the lightness she’d shown a moment earlier. He gave a mental sigh of relief when she relaxed again. “Actually, you know what I’d really like?” “Name it. If I can get it, then it’s yours.” “I’d really like to take a bath.” Was he imagining the sly gleam in her eyes? “Give me a minute.” He backed away from her, almost afraid that if he took his eyes off

Saving Mandy

65

her, she’d disappear. Once in the bathroom, he twisted the hot and cold taps on the large tub then dumped half the bubble bath Sara liked to leave in each bathroom into the tub. Fluffy towels hung on the towel rod over the tub, and a bowl of perfumed soap sat on the edge of the tub. Digging into a cabinet, he found several white candles, matches, and a CD player. A few minutes later, he punched on the music then surveyed his work with a satisfied smile. Even if she wanted to bathe alone, he’d at least given her something special. Already, he could imagine her in the tub, bubbles hiding her body from him while her skin glowed in the flickering candlelight. He nodded then reentered the bedroom. Mandy was where he’d left her except for one difference. His breath caught in his throat as he took her in. She sat on the edge of the bed, the white sheet wrapped around her body. Her clothes lay strewn about the floor. “You’re incredible.” He wasn’t sure she’d heard his whisper until her mouth quirked into a satisfied smile. Even if she hadn’t heard him, she knew the effect she had on him. “Are you sure about this, Mandy?” “Are you trying to talk me out of taking a bath?” She tilted her head to the side, her obsidian hair cascading over her shoulders. “Hell no.” “Good, because I really want one.” Want one? Or had he heard the words “want you”? “I know we haven’t known each other for very long, but—” “Jimmy?” He froze, suddenly worried that she’d tell him to leave. “Yeah?” “I’d really like to get in the bath now.” He hurried to the bed. Skimming his hands underneath her, he took her in his arms. She yelped then giggled and locked her fingers behind his neck. “I could’ve walked, you know. Not that it would’ve been half as fun as

66

Beverly Rae

you carrying me.” “I’m not letting you get on your feet for the rest of the day.” The sheet was nothing between them. She clung to his neck, letting the thin material around her breasts dip a little lower. He forced his gaze away, knowing he’d get lost in her beauty and never want to return. Shoving the bathroom door open with his shoulder, he paused, letting her take in his handiwork. “Oh, Jimmy.” Her eyes glistened with unshed tears as she glanced around. Candlelight flickered on the walls and granite, transforming it from a bathroom into a spa. Steam swirled upward from the huge tub, and music played softly in the background. “I take it you like it?” She bit her lip then swallowed. “It’s amazing.” **** She took in the candles, the bubble bath, and listened to the sweet words of a popular love ballad filling the room. Had he known what she’d been thinking as she waited for him to get her bath ready? She’d wrestled with the idea of sex with Jimmy, fighting against her desire, her ever-growing need to finish what they’d started during the picnic. Wasn’t that the real reason she’d wrapped the sheet around her instead of keeping her clothes on? She wanted to taste his lips and feel his arms around her again. The bathroom was a romantic getaway, and he’d done this for her. Had any man ever taken such wonderful care of her? Mandy tilted her head, unable to look him in the face. If she did, the tears she held back would fall, and she didn’t want anything to mar the perfect moment. She shivered, partly from excitement and partly from the chilly air sneaking under the thin cover. “Let’s get you warmed up.” Carefully, he lowered her into the tub. He didn’t turn his head away and she didn’t ask him to. Instead, she kept the sheet around her, letting it slide away from her only when

Saving Mandy

67

the bubbles covered her. The warm water ebbed at her skin, bubbles sparkling and popping as she moved her fingers through them. Jimmy sat back on his heels, his wet arms crossed over his jeans and smiled. “You remind me of a fairy-tale mermaid floating in a mystical ocean.” His golden hair formed a halo around the boyish face, the strong chin, the soft hazel eyes with specks of amber. “And you look like a sailor watching from the bow of a ship.” “Will the mermaid call to the sailor?” He grinned, a sexy devil of a smile. “If she does, will the sailor jump into the sea to be with her?” She skimmed her fingers through the bubbles bopping around the swell of her breasts, exposing a little more of her skin. His gaze dropped lower just as she’d hoped. “You bet he would.” She listened to her heart and found the truth behind the desire. He was what she wanted, and she wouldn’t be denied. “Then the mermaid is calling. Come on in, sailor boy. If you dare.” She laughed, enjoying the way he tore off his clothes. He stood, the dim light flickering over his finely toned body. Powerful legs stretched upward to a lean waist that showed off his flat, ribbed stomach. The strong arms that had lowered her into the bath water had beads of water still clinging to the golden hair. But she couldn’t keep her gaze away from the already erect cock that was at eye level. Oh, my God. He put one foot into the water, then another, before sitting in front of her. Perspiration trickled down the back of her neck, but the heat above was nothing compared to the heat between her legs. “You look tense.” Tense? Hardly. Excited? Hell, yes. “Do I?” She wished she looked sexy. “Yeah, you do. And sexy as hell. Come here.” He motioned for

68

Beverly Rae

her to turn around. When she did, he pulled her close, placing her back to him and running his long legs along the outside of hers. She inhaled slowly as he placed his hands on her shoulders and started massaging her neck. Sighing, she leaned against his chest and tucked her chin. His shaft, firm and long against her back, made her pulse doubletime. Jimmy reached for the sponge resting next to a silver bowl filled with soaps. “Now that I’ve got you relaxed, let me give you that bath you wanted.” He soaked the sponge in the water then rubbed one of the fancy soaps on it. She breathed in the lavender aroma then moved her wet hair off her shoulders. Ribbons of water tracked passages down her chest and into the water below. “Lean forward.” She did as he asked, loving the soft texture of the sponge against her back. He made circles, starting with small ones then moving outward to larger ones. “You, Jimmy Lingo, know how to treat a woman right. You must’ve had plenty of practice.” A twinge of jealousy made her neck tight again. “There’s only one woman I want to treat right.” Her heart skipped a beat. He must’ve sensed her reaction, pausing for moment before moving his hand again. Was he just saying the right thing to seduce her? Or did he mean what he said? She couldn’t ignore the thrill his words gave her. She smiled and leaned forward at his urging then widened her eyes as he ran the sponge along her spine down to the crack in her butt. The touch of his tongue against the nape of her neck sent a rush of desire pummeling through her, driving all pretense away. Reaching behind her, she laid her back against his chest and slid her hand around his neck. “Jimmy.” He answered by moving both hands around her and tugging her closer. Using the sponge, he washed her breasts, his warm breath tingling her skin. Her pussy tightened as he circled her nipple with the

Saving Mandy

69

sponge and used his thumb to circle the other. She shivered then ran her hand behind her to graze his cock. His shaft twitched at her touch, and she smiled, satisfied with the power she held over him. “Easy, baby. You wouldn’t want me to end this too soon, would you?” “With just a touch?” “It could happen. With your touch.” She might be able to make him come with her touch, but he could make her come with his words alone. He took her hips and rocked against her. He blew into her ear then raked his teeth down her neck to bite the curve of her shoulder. Again, she reached behind her to take his cock and slide her hand along the sleek length. She could feel the veins that lined him, the swell of his mushroom cap. Closing her eyes, she concentrated on the warmth of his desire flowing into her palm. “Damn, that’s good.” He bumped against her harder then moved his hands to her stomach. Reaching lower, he parted her folds and slipped his finger between them to the sensitive nub. She moaned, letting go of him to clutch her breasts. “That’s it, babe. Pinch your nipples.” She pinched them and wiggled her bottom against his shaft. He sped up, increasing the pressure on her clit until she quivered, moaning with the need to release the delicious torment racking her body. He nipped her, continuing the movement of his hand. The bites, the slip of his tongue over her skin stoked the fire blazing inside her, and she wondered if the steam rising above the water came from the heat of the bath or the heat escaping from within her. Kissing her shoulder, he held on to her as she rode his hand, squeezing his fingers and trapping him with her legs. Heat flowed over her clit then spread into her abdomen. She cried out and gripped his legs, digging her fingers into him to keep her grounded. At last, she let go, releasing one orgasm only to follow it with a bigger one.

70

Beverly Rae

She shuddered, making small waves that flowed outward. “Turn around.” She moved to face him. Jimmy kissed her forcefully, his tongue diving into her mouth, licking up every taste. She moaned and felt the heat start again. When she thought she couldn’t hold on any longer, he broke the kiss. She gasped, dragging in much-needed air. He chuckled then trailed his kisses along her shoulder to dip lower and take her nipple. He tugged her tit, first sucking and then using his teeth. She arched, silently urging him to take more. Cupping the other breast, he took turns, moving between them, sucking, nipping, biting. She braced her hands on his shoulders and dug her fingernails into his skin. Grabbing her ass with his hands, he lifted her, spreading her legs to straddle him. Taking her face between his hands, he met her gaze. “I’ve wanted you from the first second I saw you.” She swallowed, her mouth going dry. The truth hit her, hard and fast. “I felt the same way.” He palmed her cheek. “Nothing’s going to stop me now.” “Not even a big pig?” She made a funny face just to hear his laugh. “Not a chance in hell.” Letting out a growl, he plunged into her, driving hard and deep as he thrust his hips upward. She gasped, pressed her breasts against his chest, and rocked against him. Water and bubbles sloshed around them to splash over the edge of the tub. She held on with her hands, her pussy tightening around him. “Harder, Jimmy, harder.” He roared his answer and slid down into the water until only the tops of his shoulders showed above the splashing waves. Impossibly, she took him deeper inside her. He shoved his shaft into her again and again, his hands holding her hips to keep her on top of him, his mouth on her taut nipples.

Saving Mandy

71

Her body tightened, readying for yet another release. Clutching her, he threw back his head and yelled his release. She shouted, matching him as another climax, stronger than the rest, raced through her body, shuddering through her. Jimmy held her close, the heat of the water mixing with the heat and perspiration from their bodies. He stroked her hair, combing it away from her face. “Do you hear that?” She smiled, her lips pressed against his skin. “The only thing I hear is our hearts pounding in rhythm together.” He lifted her away from him and tilted his head. “No. Something’s going on outside.” She heard it then, the voice unmistakable. “Oh, my God.” Jimmy rose, handed her a towel, and took one for himself. He dried as he moved, striding to the room to snatch up his clothes.

72

Beverly Rae

Chapter Six Mandy tried to keep up with Jimmy, but couldn’t take the stairs two at a time like he did. By the time she made it to the opened front door, she was doubled over with a painful stitch in her side. Who could run so fast? She’d never seen anyone move as fast as Jimmy. “Mandy, what do you think you’re doing?” Oh, God. Decker. Still panting, she lifted her head and forced herself to a standing position. “Decker, why are you here?” Jimmy, Sara, and the others turned toward her, questions written on their faces. “Do you know this guy?” The concern in Jimmy’s voice was unmistakable. She nodded then dragged in a slow breath. “This is Decker Royce…my friend. He’s helped my mom, and he helped me find my father.” “Your friend? Are you kidding me?” Decker shot her an incredulous look. Jimmy’s attention pivoted between Mandy and Decker, finally coming to land on the big man who stood, feet planted apart, his challenge evident. “What’s going on, Mandy?” Jimmy didn’t take his eyes off Decker. “She’s my girlfriend. I take care of her and her mom.” She hurried toward Decker, hoping to defuse the situation and keep him from saying anything more. Decker took her into his arms then frowned when she pushed him away. “Decker and I are involved, Jimmy. I told you.” She cut off her words, hating the whiny sound.

Saving Mandy

73

“Yeah, I know. But things are different now, right?” The anger flowing from Jimmy was almost tangible. “Mandy, I came to help you with your father. I heard what happened the other day when you went to see him. Then when the people in town told me where you were…” She looked away. How could she tell Decker what had happened since she’d left her father’s home? Yet after all he’d done for her and her mom, didn’t he have the right to know? Guilt swallowed her. “Mandy?” She wanted to cry at the hurt in Jimmy’s voice and bit her lower lip to keep it from trembling. “I’m sorry. But Decker’s…” What was Decker to her? Should she call him her lover when she’d always resisted going to bed with him? Or was he a family friend-turnedboyfriend? She couldn’t just brush him aside. She met Jimmy’s gaze, saw the pain in his eyes, and wished she could make him understand. But what could she say? She hadn’t planned for anything to happen between them. Had they come together because they were compelled by an attraction too powerful to resist? Or was their closeness only a reaction to the danger they’d faced with the wild hog and wolf? A knot formed in her stomach as her heart waged against her conscience. Jimmy opened his mouth to say something then closed it. “Please try to understand.” But her plea came too little, too late. “This is bullshit.” Jimmy growled out his words, his eyes burning with anger. “Jimmy, please. Give me time.” She grabbed Decker’s arm, keeping him from adding fuel to the fire. Jimmy’s expression tore at her heart. If she could take it all back, if she could turn back time she would. He’d promised to keep her from harm, yet all she’d done was hurt him. “Forget it.” Jimmy whirled around and stormed inside, leaving her dying to reach out to him, to beg him to listen to her. But what would she tell him? Should she tell him how she and

74

Beverly Rae

Decker had started growing apart long before she’d come to Texas? Or should she explain how her feelings for Decker were nothing in comparison to her feelings for him? She took a step forward and found herself blocked by a wall of men. Sara stepped to the side, her face grim. “Nick, run upstairs and grab her suitcase.” Nick nodded then sprinted up the steps and into the house. “Mandy, once you’ve gotten your things, you’d best get off our land.” Sara turned and walked into the house. **** Mandy put her head against the window of Decker’s Mercedes and stared at the land passing by. She blanked her mind, hoping to control the tears threatening to tumble out. Leaving the Matheson Ranch had torn a hole in her, a hole only Jimmy could repair. Yet judging by the way he’d looked at her, she had no chance of getting him to understand what had happened. Hell, even she couldn’t grasp the whole of it. “Look, Mandy, I’ve given you some time, but I need answers. What were you doing staying with those people? I looked like a damn idiot showing up at your father’s place and having him slam the door in my face. Then when I found out where you were staying, I just about shit myself. Do you know everyone in this rinky-dink town thinks you’re shacking up with those guys? Not just one, but all of them.” The town thought she was having sex with all six men? She touched the window, flattening her palm against it. Images of the men floated in front of her like ghostly visions from a future that would never be. If given the chance, would she have sex with the men of Matheson Ranch? She closed her eyes and let her imagination take her along for the ride. She could easily see Michael, Max, Nick, and William

Saving Mandy

75

pleasuring her along with Ranlon and, of course, Jimmy. She crossed her legs, her muscles clenching with need. Yeah, she’d take them all, welcome them into her arms, and be proud to do it. Then she’d wake up next to Jimmy every morning. But that dream was gone. She pushed away from the window and concentrated on the road ahead. “Where are we going?” Decker’s dark eyes flashed, and he ran a hand through his short black hair. “I found a rental just a couple of miles outside the next town.” “No. Take me to my father’s.” He gripped the steering wheel, but his tone remained calm. Too calm. “After how he greeted you, why the hell would you want to go back?” “I need to try again. No, nix that. I’m going to make him listen to me. At the very least, I’ll get him to invite me inside.” She couldn’t think about Decker or Jimmy now. Instead, she would put her energy in doing what she’d come to Lost Hills to do. “Then I’m going with you.” Decker whipped the car in the opposite direction to head back to Lost Hills. She studied him and, like so many times before, gratitude filled her. He’d been nothing but kind and helpful to her, and he deserved better than what she’d shown him. Jimmy’s bright face flashed through her memory, but she shoved it aside. Jimmy was no longer an option. After her refusing to dismiss Decker, she couldn’t expect anything more. Swallowing the tears filling her eyes, she looked straight ahead and summoned her courage as they drove down the road leading to her father’s house. She and Decker strode to the front door and, like the first time she’d come, she drew in a breath and knocked. Her father greeted her with a scowl. “Why did you come back?” His gaze slid from hers to Decker standing behind her, and the color drained from his face.

76

Beverly Rae

“Mr. Garland, you should welcome your daughter into your home.” Fear crumpled the anger from her father’s body, and he gave Decker a quick nod. Was her father afraid of Decker because of his size? She didn’t know, but it didn’t matter as long she got inside. She entered the house and glanced around at the filth and disarray. Liquor bottles lay scattered around the room. Dirty cups and plates filled with leftover food rested on the tattered furniture. She brought her hand up to cover her nose then dropped it before he could see how the stench affected her. “Mr. Garland, I heard how you treated your daughter when she first came to see you.” Her father scooted away from Decker and put a chair between them. Why was he afraid of Decker? “Mandy, honey, I’m sorry about the other day.” “It’s okay.” She motioned toward the couch, and he nodded, giving her permission to move the racing forms and girlie magazines to the already overladen coffee table. “I just wanted to see you. To spend time with you.” To ask him why he left us. Where was she supposed to go from there? If he rejected her again, could she leave town and forget about him? She sought out Decker and found the strength he’d always shown her. He took a step closer to her father. Her father jumped like a frightened rabbit dashing away from a predator coyote. “Aw, girl, you don’t want to do that. I’m just an old man. I ain’t no good to nobody.” He shifted his attention from her to Decker. “And I ain’t got nothing, either. I’m busted. Flat broke.” Did he think she wanted money? Something wasn’t right. Did they know each other? Her father was intimidated and fearful of Decker. But why? “Mr. Garland, I think the honorable thing to do is to sit down and talk to your daughter. She’s come too far for you not to give her what she wants.” Decker moved to hover over Mandy. “I wouldn’t like it if

Saving Mandy

77

you didn’t do what she asked.” Did Decker just threaten her father? “Sure, sure. Anything you say.” Her father rushed to find a seat on the sofa next to her, but kept his attention glued on Decker as though waiting for the man to pounce. “Good. Then how about I give you two a chance to talk? I’ve got an errand to run, but it won’t take long.” Mandy took his hand and squeezed it. “Thank you, Decker. Not just for today but for everything.” He bent and placed a chaste kiss on her cheek. “Don’t mention it, babe. I’d do anything for you. After all, you’re my girl.” His girl. She forced a smile, but the smile didn’t spread to the rest of her body. Was she his girl? She watched Decker walk out the door then turned to her father. But her father had already left his seat and was scurrying to the window to peek through the blinds. “Is something wrong?” What should she call him? Dad? Not a chance. “Glen, what are you looking at?” “Nothing. Don’t a man have a right to look out his own window?” Fumbling to light a cigarette, he paced the floor, taking several puffs before plopping on the chair across from her only to jump back up and start pacing again. “Have you known him for very long?” “A few months. Why do you ask?” Why were they discussing Decker when she had so many questions to ask him? A few more puffs floated around his face before he stopped pacing long enough to ask another question. His hand shook, dropping ashes onto the stained carpet. “Is he your man?” “We’re dating.” Why was he so nervous? He snorted and took another drag on his cigarette. “Why are you here?” Why was she here? To get to know him better? But looking around, she wasn’t sure she wanted that any longer. Hadn’t her mother warned her? What else should she have expected?

78

Beverly Rae

“I want answers.” He took another peek out the window then finally eased into the chair again. His green eyes, so much like hers, zeroed in. “Answers to what?” “Like how you ended up with those bruises on your face and neck.” “Hell, those ain’t nothing. The ones on my body are worse. But it don’t matter. What’s done is done.” “Fine. Then tell me what I really want to know.” She paused to drag in a steadying breath. “I want to know why you left us. Why you left me.” He ground the stub of his cigarette into an overflowing ashtray then lit up another one. “Didn’t your mother tell you?” “She said you went out for cigarettes one day and never came back. Good riddance, she said.” Why was he stalling? “Well, then, you’ve got your answer.” A smoke ring circled above his head. “No I don’t. That just tells me how you left. Not why.” She leaned forward, trying to mentally urge him to respond. “Was your marriage so awful that you couldn’t stay and try to make it better?” Or was she the problem? Could he have hated being her father so much that he’d had to leave? “As far as I knew, the marriage was fine. Your mother, on the other hand, wouldn’t let a man be a man. A man’s got to do what he wants. Not what some nag’s yakking at him to do.” She picked up a racing form. “You mean like gambling away money needed to pay the rent? Or to put food on the table?” “Aw, there it is.” He pushed away from the chair to snatch the racing form away from her. “So she did tell you her side.” He tossed the paper to the floor and slid his gaze over her, one corner of his mouth lifted in a sneer. “You don’t look like you came out any worse for wear. So what’re you bitching about?” Everything her mother had told her was true. Her father was a

Saving Mandy

79

good-for-nothing man who gambled and drank away his right to a family. But she still couldn’t give up on him. “I’m not bitching. I just want to get to know you. Is that so bad?” His eyes glittered and, for a moment, she was tempted to run out of the home. “So you and this Decker guy are tight? I bet he’d do just about anything for you. Am I right?” “Do you and Decker know each other?” He darted his gaze away from her. “Naw. Never saw the man before. I’m just curious, is all.” “So what about it? Do you think I could stay a couple of days so we can get to know each other better?” Would she find any good in the man? Doubtful, but she had to try. “I could help you clean up the place.” The way he stared at her, like he was calculating how much he could get from her, sent a chill down her spine. “All right. I guess I could put up with you for a day or two. As long as you pull your weight and help your daddy out.” Yellow, stained teeth shone with his grin. “I guess you can call me Dad or Pops.” So he wanted a maid? “Fine. I’ll cook and clean for you, but you’ve got to hold up your end of the deal, too. You’re going to tell me about yourself. The good as well as the bad. Do we have an understanding, Glen?” His cackle was filled with evil glee. “Sure thing, honey. Sure thing.” **** Hours later, and Mandy was sure she’d made a mistake. Her father, drunk and snoring after downing a bottle of vodka, slumped in his chair, a lit cigarette hanging from the corner of his mouth. She’d worked nonstop since they’d made their agreement and had barely

80

Beverly Rae

made a dent in the mess. Why was Decker taking so long to return? “Garland, get your ass out here.” Mandy jumped and almost dropped the empty liquor bottles she held cradled in her arms. “You’re going to pay up, dirtbag, one way or the other.” She dumped the bottles into the trash can and shook her father. “Glen, wake up.” She shook him harder until he grumbled and opened his bleary eyes. “There are some men outside yelling for you.” Panic set in him, from the horror in his eyes to the stiffening of his body. The cigarette fell to the floor and he gripped the arms of the chair as though his life depended on it. “What’s wrong? Who are they?” He didn’t answer. Instead, he pushed her out of the way and stumbled to the window to peek through the blinds. “Shit and double shit. They’re here.” “Who’s here?” She started toward the door, but her father grabbed her arm and pulled her away. “Hey!” “You can’t open the door.” He held a finger to his lips and flattened his back to the wall. “And be quiet. Maybe they’ll leave if they don’t think I’m home.” She scooted next to him and tried to ignore his terrible stench. “What do they want?” “What do they always want? Money.” “We know you’re in there, Garland, so you better get out here and pay up. Otherwise, we’re coming in and taking our money out of your hide.” “That’s how you got the bruises, isn’t it? You owe them money.” She stated the obvious, wanting to have it confirmed. He leaned closer, his breath a putrid flow of air assaulting her nose. “You got some money. Sure, you do. I can tell what with the nice clothes you wear. And Decker, he’ll do anything for you. So if you could give me a little money, enough to get these thugs off my back, then you’d be helping out your dear old dad.”

Saving Mandy

81

He held out his hand, palm up. She gaped at him. What did he expect? That she had a wad of cash in her back pocket? “Wrong. I work hard for what I have, and I’m not giving it to you to pay off gambling debts.” His pleading expression morphed into disgust. “You’re just like your mother, aren’t you? Always blaming a man when he’s down on his luck.” “I’m not blaming you, but I’m not about to pay off—” Glass shattered around them as a big, burly arm reached through the window, snagged Glen by the collar, and yanked him back through the broken shards. Mandy screamed, grabbing for her father a second too late. Flinging the door open, she raced into the dimming light of the evening. Five men, each one large and muscled, stood around her father, who lay on the ground. He moaned then rolled onto his back. “Get away from him!” Fear shot adrenaline through her, making her dismiss the warning bells clanging inside her head. She started down the steps. “Hold up there, girl.” The tallest of the group barked the order then tilted his head at her. “I don’t know who you are, and I don’t much care either. Our business is with him, not you. Stay out of this, and you won’t get hurt.” “Damn, Toker, she’s a hot one.” “He’s my father.” She ground out the words then planted her feet apart. Surprise lit up Toker’s face. “His daughter? Well, well. I never would’ve thought any woman would lie down with this mangy mutt.” His heated look took in her body, lingering too long over her breasts. “How a louse like him ever turned out a beauty like you is a wonder. Yes, sir, it’s a damn wonder.” “Leave him alone.” She hoped he wouldn’t see how much her knees wobbled.

82

Beverly Rae

“Look, girly, he owes us money, so unless you’re going to give us what’s due, then he’s got to pay. With his hide.” He struck out and kicked her father in the back. Glen wailed and curled into a fetal position. “How much?” She’d gotten his attention. “Are you going to pay?” “How much?” She swallowed and prayed the amount wasn’t more than she could afford. “Fifteen thousand.” She hadn’t meant to gasp, but she couldn’t help herself. Fifteen thousand? He might as well have said a million dollars. He made a rude sound and waved her away. “I don’t think your daughter’s going to save your ass, Glen-boy.” “She’s not. But I am.” Mandy and the men pivoted toward the side of the house. Decker stepped out of the shadows then stopped, a rifle in one hand. “Who the hell are you?” Toker lifted his lips in a snarl. “I’m the one who’s going to spread your guts all over the ground if you don’t leave the man alone.” Decker hefted the rifle to his shoulder. “Now get going before my finger gets itchy.” Toker growled, his eyes flashing. The other men answered with growls of their own. “I don’t like threats.” Toker took a step forward and his friends did the same. She held her breath and wondered how many shots Decker could get off before they reached him. “Be careful, Decker.” Decker tilted his head and closed one eye to place his sights on Toker. “Come on, big guy. You’ll be the first to eat lead.” Toker stopped, his face a mask of rage. “Put down the gun and fight like a real man.” Decker laughed. “You mean like you? Fighting five to one against an old man? Besides, my mamma didn’t raise no fool.” He repositioned the rifle on his shoulder. “Now get while you can still

Saving Mandy

83

run.” Toker scowled and clenched his fists. “Don’t think this is a done deal. I’m going to get my money.” “Not today you aren’t. Now go.” Decker pulled the trigger, firing the rifle and sending dirt into the air in front of Toker’s feet. Toker’s men whirled and ran, leaving him alone. With one last kick to her father’s side, he stalked after his friends. Mandy rushed to her father and helped him sit up. “Are you all right? Do you want a doctor?” “I’m okay.” Glen settled his weight on her and rose on unsteady feet. “Thanks to Decker.” She led her father into the house with Decker following. Placing him in the chair, she waited until Decker put the gun down, then slid her arms around him. “Thank God you came when you did.” She laid her head against his chest and closed her eyes. “Yeah, I’m glad I showed up when I did. You and your father are safe now.” She owed him so much. From helping her mother, to finding then saving her father. How would she ever repay him? “Mandy, can we talk for a minute? Outside?” She pulled away to search his eyes. “Sure.” Outside on the porch, he took her hands and gave her a quick kiss on the lips. “You know I love you, right? I mean, I’ve never said the words, but you know, don’t you?” Did she? Or had she ever given it any thought? “I, uh, I—” He kissed her, breaking off her words. “No, don’t say anything. Just listen.” He gulped, his Adam’s apple moving up and down, and gripped her hands tighter. She nodded, her mind reeling with questions. Had he had enough? Was saving her the last straw? If he broke up with her, what would her mother say? Her eyes widened as he went down on one knee. Her heart

84

Beverly Rae

pounded in her chest, almost painfully. Her mind wouldn’t function, couldn’t understand what he was doing. “I asked your mother for her blessing and she gave it. So”—he cleared his throat—“Mandy Garland, will you do me the honor of becoming my mate? Uh, I mean my wife?” Marriage? A ringing sounded in her ears, and her body trembled. She froze, letting the myriad of emotions whirl inside her, her sight blurring for a moment. She blinked at the image before her. Had she just seen Jimmy’s face instead of Decker’s? “Sweetie? What do you say? Will you be my wife and let me take care of your mom and you for the rest of our lives? I’ll even pay off your father’s debt.” Decker took out a small, black box and flipped the lid open to reveal a large, princess-cut diamond ring. Taking the ring out of the box, he slipped it onto her fourth finger. Her mother would want her to say yes. And her father? He may not be much of a father, but he was all she had. She had to help him. The memory of Jimmy holding her, sliding the sponge over her breasts came and went, lost in a rush of dismay. She and Jimmy would never happen. She gazed into Decker’s eyes, saw the man who’d done so much for her family, and made her decision. “Yes, Decker. I’ll marry you.”

Saving Mandy

85

Chapter Seven “Are you giving up on her?” Jimmy enclosed the coffee mug in both hands and winced at the noise Sara made rattling the fry pan on the range. “The only plan I have is to down a bottle of painkillers and hope my head doesn’t fall apart before then.” Sara dropped a plate filled with pancakes in front of him. He closed his eyes and waited for the stabbing pain in his forehead to subside. “Have pity, will you? My head’s about to explode.” “Your head should explode after drinking as much as you put away last night. You should’ve gone with the rest of us on the run. That would’ve done you more good than getting stinking drunk.” After Mandy had left with Decker, he’d spent the rest of the night holed up in his room with a bottle of Jack Daniel’s and the misery of having lost his mate. With the morning came another kind of misery. “Just because I tied one on last night, doesn’t mean you need to make it worse this morning.” “Are you going to answer my question or not?” “What do you want me to do? She’s with that Decker guy. Looks to me like she’s made her choice.” Sara slid into the chair beside him and yanked his hair. “Ow!” Searing pain flared into every part of his head. He held his head and snarled at her. “What the hell, Sara. Are you out to skin me?” “I might just do that, if you don’t get your head out of your butt. Think about what happened. Did she say he was her choice? Did she tell you to leave her alone? I saw her expression right after you

86

Beverly Rae

trounced off like a pouting five-year-old. That girl wants you, even if she doesn’t realize how much.” “I don’t know, Sara.” “Look, I was angry at first, too. But now that I’ve had time to think about her situation, I think she should’ve stayed.” “But she left with him, didn’t she? Her actions say more than a look you think you saw.” Sara let out an exasperated sound. “You men are all alike. One little obstacle and you’re ready to throw in the towel.” He blinked, trying to get his pain-clogged brain to function. “I didn’t give up. She made her—” Sara slapped him on the arm, eliciting yet another round of pain to pierce his body. “For the love of the moon, will you stop hitting me?” “Then stop saying she’s made her choice. Something tells me things are a lot more complicated than that.” For the first time since Mandy had gone, a flicker of hope lit inside him. “What are you getting at?” Sara’s brown eyes met his. “Think about it. She’s a girl whose father abandoned her when she was young. Since then, I’ll bet she hasn’t had a man she can count on, one that treats her right. Then along comes this Decker person who helps her mom and helps her find her father. I’m thinking she feels very obligated to him. Add dating him for awhile, and she’s going to find it hard as hell to break away. Even after finding you.” Sara made sense. But had Mandy gone along with Decker out of obligation? Add the fact that he hadn’t promised her anything except to keep her from getting hurt again and maybe Mandy thought she didn’t have another option. He hadn’t had time to tell her how much he cared for her or how she was the one for him. “So do you think there’s still a chance?” He downed the warm coffee and stabbed a pancake into his mouth. “That depends.” Sara sat back in her chair and sized him up. “On what?” He paused, the third pancake already in his mouth.

Saving Mandy

87

“On whether you’re willing to fight for her.” Sara’s eyes blazed, the amber sparkling in the brown. Jimmy gulped his food and followed it with the last of the coffee. Scraping the chair across the floor, he stood and nodded at the alphafemale of the pack. “I’ve never backed down from a fight before, and I don’t plan to start now.” **** Mandy half listened to the game show playing on the television and stared at the diamond she’d returned to the small velvet box. Her mother’s reaction to her engagement hadn’t surprised her. Not only had her mother rejoiced at the news of Mandy’s engagement, she’d actually squealed with delight. Yet once Decker had gone, promising to visit tomorrow, she’d taken the ring off. “So you made your mom happy getting engaged to the big guy, huh? That’s more than I could ever do.” Mandy frowned, still wrestling with emotions she couldn’t understand. She cared for Decker, right? He treated her family well, better than any man she’d ever known. Not that she’d known many. But Decker had walked into her life and taken over. Taken over? Was that how she viewed him? As someone who had taken over her family? Her life? Her future? She shook her head, ridding her mind of unwanted ideas. But the main idea, the one that kept hammering at her, wouldn’t let go. Did she love him? An awful sinking feeling settled in the pit of her stomach. No. She didn’t love him. She could learn to love him, and she owed him a lot, but didn’t she deserve more? A tear slid down her cheek, and she wiped it away. How many more tears would she shed? Snapping the box closed, she shoved it in her pocket. If Decker asked, she could tell him it needed to be sized to fit her finger.

88

Beverly Rae

The knock on the door jolted her out of her melancholy and she was on her feet to answer it before her father managed to goad her into moving. Wiping her face again, she pulled her body straight, determined to make the best of her situation. She swung the door wide. “I’m glad you’re back. We have a lot of planning—” She stopped with the forced smile plastered on her face and forgot what words came next. Jimmy returned her smile with a genuine one. His hazel eyes twinkled at her, catching her breath. A breeze blew a shock of hair across his forehead, and she ached to touch it. “Hi, Mandy.” “Jimmy.” Her voice broke, and his name came out a whisper. She couldn’t marry Decker. Not when the mere sight of Jimmy almost brought her to her knees. But what choice did she have? Her family depended on Decker. “Can we talk?” His gaze swept behind her to her father. “Alone?” She nodded, unsure if she could count on her ability to speak. Closing the door behind her, she followed him across the yard to his pickup. He pulled the door wide and waited for her to get into the passenger side. “Where are we going?” He hopped into the driver’s seat, buckled up, and turned the key. “A quiet place where we can talk. Is that good for you?” “Okay.” “Good.” He placed his hand over hers. A rush of excitement sizzled through her, waking every nerve ending, every sense. Searching him, she saw that he, too, experienced the same sensations. He squeezed her hand then grasped the steering wheel. She bit her lower lip, concentrating on his movements. She watched his muscles ripple and bunch as he maneuvered the truck along the two-lane road. She sighed over the strong arms leading to the wide granite shoulders that no amount of denim could disguise. The way he rocked in his seat whenever he moved the stick shift made her mouth go dry with

Saving Mandy

89

need. Knowing she shouldn’t, but unable to stop herself, she let her gaze slide lower, stopping on the tented material between his legs. “Is here okay?” He swung the pickup off the road to bump down a gravel path. A creek sparkled under the sun a few yards away with a cluster of trees dotting the bank. “Sure.” He jumped out then hurried to her side and helped her out of the pickup. She slid into his arms, her breasts rubbing against his powerful chest, their faces only inches apart. Minutes, even hours could’ve passed but she wouldn’t have cared. She could’ve stayed frozen in the moment forever. Jimmy cleared his throat then took her hand to lead her down the path to the creek. “Let’s take a seat.” Two long-stemmed glasses sat beside the silver bucket that housed a bottle of champagne. A large wicker picnic basket rested on the checkered blanket and an iPod with speakers played a soft, instrumental melody. “Do you like? I figured I should make up for the earlier disaster of a picnic.” She thought she nodded, but she wasn’t positive. “You sure know how to lay it on thick.” “What do I lay on thick?” “The seduction.” He cupped her chin, making her bring her gaze to his. A fierce love burned in the hazel-flecked-with-amber depths. “A seduction? Maybe. But whatever happens is up to you.” The flutter in her stomach was echoed by the heat between her legs. Letting Jimmy guide her, she sat on the grass and waited as he filled her glass with champagne. “I hope we don’t have another unexpected visitor.” The bubbles from the champagne tickled her nose. “Don’t worry about any boar bothering us. Michael and the others will take care of the wild hog problem. Unless we get attacked by a

90

Beverly Rae

rabid armadillo, I think we’re pretty safe.” “Please tell me you’re kidding.” His chuckle was deep and warm, and it put her at ease even before he spoke. “Yeah, I’m kidding. Besides, I told you I’d never let anything hurt you.” She wanted to hug herself with joy. “I guess you’re not angry anymore?” She could still remember the way he’d looked as she stood next to Decker. “I hated seeing you so upset with me.” He leaned forward, his expression urgent. “Then tell me why, Mandy. Why did you leave with him?” She drank the remainder of her champagne then lay back. Sunlight peeked through the treetops then disappeared as a cloud rolled in front of the sun. “It’s very complicated.” “Bullshit.” His jaw set so she could see the way his muscles worked as he ground his teeth. She reached out to him, to caress his face, but he moved back. “It is bullshit, but it’s true, too. Decker is…” She shook her head, unable to find the right way to describe her relationship. A friend? Yes. A lover? Not yet. A fiancé? Sadness enveloped her. Yes. “Decker is what? What is he to you, Mandy?” He rested on his elbow, his anger dissipating a little. “Is he your lover?” “No. I haven’t slept with him.” Although Decker was attractive, sexy by any woman’s measure, something had always held her back from taking him into her bed. “Then I don’t get it.” “In the few short months I’ve known him, Decker has wormed his way into my life. He’s helped my mom with money, and now he’s promised to help Glen, too. He even helped me locate my father. I owe him a lot.” Jimmy moved on top of her, holding his body’s weight off hers as he searched for understanding. “You owe him? That’s why you left with him? Because you feel you have to pay him back somehow?”

Saving Mandy

91

She couldn’t stop the tears from coming. “I do. Can you understand that? My mother is so excited and my father is breathing easier with Decker’s promise to help. I can’t let them down.” “So it’s better to let me down? Hell, to let yourself down?” He brushed away a tear, fell to her side, then slid his hand down her body. His hand stalled on top of the bulge in her pocket. “What’s this?” Before she could stop him, he’d tugged the velvet box from her pocket and was on his feet. Opening the box, his eyes went wide and his jaw fell slack. “Please, Jimmy, let me explain.” Pain seared through her, ripping a hole in her heart at his tortured expression. “Is this an engagement ring? From him?” She snatched the box from him and shoved it into her pocket. “Yes, it is. Decker asked me to marry him.” “And what did you tell him?” “You have to understand.” She couldn’t tell if he was more angry or hurt. “Answer the question, Mandy. What did you tell him?” Her heart broke apart, unable to stand the agony she put him through. Dragging in deep breaths, she sobbed her answer. “I said yes.” **** Her answer barreled through him like a runaway train through a car stuck on the tracks. His mind reeled, and the world around him blurred. He stepped back, physically unbalanced. “Jimmy, please.” She had to be joking. Maybe he’d heard her wrong. He’d believe anything. Just not that. “You’re going to marry Decker.” He should howl his pain, but he couldn’t gather enough strength. Instead, he simply stared at her and

92

Beverly Rae

wished he’d never met her. “I told him I would.” Suddenly the emotions slammed into him, taking him out of his numb state and letting him feel. “Then why the hell did you agree to come with me? You could’ve told me this at the door.” “No I couldn’t.” “Why not? Did you think you’d let me down easy? Because, babe, this isn’t easy. Not by any stretch of the imagination.” “I meant I couldn’t let you go.” He paused, trying to let her words make sense, but couldn’t. Growling, he reached down to take the end of the blanket. She stopped him, placing her hand on his. The now-familiar rush of heat scorched from her skin to burn his, and he no longer had the ability to think. Instead, he grabbed her arms and threw her onto the blanket. Mandy didn’t cry out. Instead, she took his face between her hands, rose up, and crushed her mouth to his. Surprise soon gave way to desire, and he welcomed her tongue in his mouth. She tasted sweet and spicy at the same time while her body’s heat lit a flame in his. He cupped her breast, tugging her shirt away. She yanked him out of his jeans, never letting their urgency interrupt their kiss. Frantic with need, he couldn’t think of anything except seeking the soft skin under her clothes. The warm sun heated his back, but it was nothing compared to the heat under his hands. Naked, they slid their hands over each other, rediscovering their treasures, savoring the tastes. He groaned and fought the urge to glide his cock inside her. But the battle was one he couldn’t win. Tumbling over, he pulled her on top of him and guided his shaft into her pussy. Her long, black hair streamed over her shoulders like an obsidian waterfall over pale rocks. Her eyes were closed, but her mouth opened as she flattened her hands against his pecs. Bracing his hands on her hips, he thrust upward. She moved in perfect sync with him, giving proof that they’d been made for each other. Her breasts bounced as she rocked against him, and he couldn’t

Saving Mandy

93

resist taking one of her firm, full breasts in his hand. Her taut nipple pushed against his palm, and he ached to catch the hard bud between his teeth. She was more beautiful than he remembered with the sunlight dancing in the highlights of her hair skimming over her shoulders and along her arms. He fondled her, delighting in the way her breast and butt cheek filled his hands. He flicked his tongue over her nipple. She opened her lust-filled eyes, and he almost lost control. The animal within burst free, clawing to come out and claim its mate. She locked her hands behind his neck and held on. Together, they watched each other as she rode him and he plunged deeper inside her. Groaning, he took her breast and brought her nipple to his mouth. He nipped at her, pumped into her, and listened to the small sound she made with each thrust. “I want to take you the other way.” He searched her face, wondering if he was asking too much, too soon. But the animal inside him had to ask. Her lust-clouded gaze met his. “Take me any way you want.” Growling, he threw her on her side, eliciting a yelp from her. Caressing her arm, he took it then turned her on her stomach. She responded, giving him the permission he couldn’t voice to ask. Going onto her knees, she leaned forward on her forearms and offered her bottom. The wolf inside howled its victory, and he gritted his teeth to keep from throwing back his head and letting the howl fly skyward. Instead, he bent to her and kissed the tight rings around her anus. She jerked then lowered her upper torso closer to the ground. “I don’t want to hurt you.” She craned her neck around, her eyes blazing with need. “You won’t.” Placing his cock at the opening, he eased himself in. She clenched at first, fighting against the invasion, but soon he heard her deep

94

Beverly Rae

breaths as she relaxed. Easy. Take it easy. He closed his eyes, the sensation of her tightening around him so amazing and so right. Slowly he increased his movement, drawing out then going back in. She moaned and wiggled her bottom, driving him insane. Slapping her butt cheeks, he took hold and rammed into her. “I can’t last much longer.” She didn’t answer. Not with her voice. Lifting up, she pushed back against him until he realized what she wanted. She was tender yet strong, sexy yet sweet. When she stiffened, then let out a moan as her body trembled, he joined her and roared his release along with hers. Their bodies, together as one, fell onto the blanket. Lying side by side, he waited for her breathing to return to normal, and then he slipped his arm over the small mound of her stomach. She placed her hand over his. “You’re not marrying Decker.” He couldn’t, wouldn’t let her do it. “I know.” Relief flooded him, followed by joy. “Then you have to tell him.” She turned on her side and snuggled into the crook of his arm. “I can handle my mom, but what do I do about my father? Decker promised to help him.” “I’ll help him. Whatever the problem, I’ll get him the help he needs.” She rose on her elbow, her eyes darkened to jade. “He owes a lot of money to some very bad men. I don’t want you to get involved. If anything happened to you…” Her words trailed off, choked by a sob. Pulling her to his side again, he hugged her. “Nothing will happen to me. Trust me. But I’m going to need help. We need to tell Michael and the others.”

Saving Mandy

95

Chapter Eight “I don’t understand what the problem is.” Michael rested his elbows on his knees and edged forward in his seat. Mandy and Jimmy sat on the large sectional couch in the big room of the Matheson home, their hands clasped, their attention focused on Michael, Sara, and the four men standing around the room or lounging on the other section of the couch. “You don’t?” Mandy glanced at Jimmy, who kept his gaze on his friend. “No, we don’t.” Ranlon stretched his legs onto the ottoman and fell against the couch cushions. His fingers flew over the cell phone’s keypad, texting as he talked. “Seems simple enough. You tell Decker thanks, but no thanks, so you can be with the man you really love— not to mention gaining an entire family of sexy friends—then we pay your father’s debt. Although why you want to save his sorry ass is beyond me.” “He’s her father, man.” Jimmy had repeated the same reason several times, but the others didn’t put much weight on her feelings of responsibility for her father’s safety. “Yeah, I know. And I get that.” Michael tunneled a hand through his hair. “But if we decide to do this, then you’ve got to know it’s a one-time deal. Glen messes up again and gets in trouble, then we’re not going to bail him out. Not for your sake or Jimmy’s. And definitely not for Glen’s.” She brushed her shoulder against Jimmy, urging him to take the lead in the conversation. The lump in her throat at his friends’ generosity prevented her from speaking. In the short time she’d

96

Beverly Rae

known them, they’d shown her nothing but kindness, always telling her how beautiful she was and doing kind, even romantic, things for her. She cared for them almost as much as she cared for Jimmy. They were her family more than her father ever had been. “So it’s agreed? We pay the fifteen thousand and Mandy breaks her engagement.” “I don’t think it’s going to be that easy.” All eyes turned toward the hallway to find William standing at the entrance to the big room. “Why not?” Nick handed William a beer. “Well, first of all, from the get-go Decker didn’t strike me as the type that would let his girl run off with another man.” Mandy frowned. “I didn’t run off with Jimmy. I just got mixed up inside and couldn’t recognize that my gratitude to Decker wasn’t real love. How could I have? I didn’t know love until I met Jimmy.” Sara sighed and hugged Michael closer. “I know how you feel. I never thought I’d fall in love. Until I met Michael and these men.” Not for the first time, Mandy studied the interaction between Sara and the men. Although Sara gravitated toward Michael’s side most of the time, she had a special connection with each of the men that showed in the way they touched her, the way they listened to her every word. A stab of envy swept into Mandy. If given the chance, would her relationship with the men of Matheson Ranch be as strong? William strode into the room, took a drink, and slipped onto the oversized armchair. “I don’t think Decker’s going to care about your feelings much. His pride’s involved, and you taking up with another man is going to bruise his ego.” “I can try and make him understand.” Although she’d spoken with confidence, she wasn’t sure. Decker was as hardheaded as anyone, and once he’d made up his mind, getting him to rethink his position was close to impossible. William took another swig of his drink. “But that’s not the biggest hurdle we face.” “Spit it out. I could tell you had something else you needed to

Saving Mandy

97

say.” Jimmy released her hand and edged forward, his body stiffening. “I didn’t mention this at the time, but when I first laid eyes on Decker I got the impression that I’d seen him before.” He paused, taking time for another sip. “So I did some checking.” “Yeah. What’d you find out?” Jimmy glanced at her, worry filling his eyes. “I remember him all right. From a trip I made into Oklahoma City last year. It seems old Decker’s part of an illegal gambling operation. It’s not a big operation, but rumor has it the group running it are real bad. They don’t like people who welch on their bets and they sure don’t like it when others get in their way. The group that showed up the other day at your father’s place was part of that operation.” “But I don’t understand. Decker helped my father. He ran them off. Why would he do that if he’s part of their group?” “He’s not just part of their group, Mandy.” William lowered his gaze and shifted in his seat before bringing his eyes up again. “He’s their leader.” “No. I mean, it would make even less sense if he’s their leader. Wouldn’t he have sent the men in the first place? What would he gain by scaring them off?” Jimmy bowed his head, then pivoted to face her. “Don’t you see, babe? He set it up. He had those men attack your father so he could come to the rescue.” She shook her head, still not taking it all in. “Tell me why. What was his reason?” Jimmy took her hands in his and rubbed his thumbs over the tops of her fingers. “He did it so he could play hero and make you feel even more indebted to him. You said yourself how you confused gratitude with love. He solidified your feelings for him and then made the big move to ask you to marry him.” “I have to give it to Decker.” Nick lifted his beer bottle in a mock salute. “His plan worked.”

98

Beverly Rae

“Until I came along.” Jimmy shot her a soft smile. “No wonder he didn’t have any trouble finding your father. Hell, he probably already had your father on the hook from the first minute he met you and decided he wanted you as his mate.” William shot Jimmy a pointed look. “So I was right? He’s one?” “Yeah, Jimmy. He is. The whole group is.” He’s one what? A jerk, obviously. How could she not have seen it? Everything Decker had done for her mother, the way he’d integrated himself into their lives, taking control until they relied on him too much. When had it all started? At the same time her father ran up his gambling debts? Mandy trembled. Anger at Decker collided with fury with herself for not seeing his lies. “I can’t believe what a fool I’ve been.” Jimmy chucked her under the chin. He searched her, diving into her as though he could see into her soul. “Don’t go dogging on yourself. He’s a slimeball who tricked you, but we’re going to take care of things.” Michael reached over to place a hand on her knee. The other men and Sara rose and closed ranks around her. “We’re here for you, Mandy. Whatever it takes, we’ll make this right. The only thing you need to think about is you and Jimmy.” “And your future together here at the ranch.” Sara motioned for the men to back off. “Okay, guys. Let’s give these two some space.” The men grumbled, but they followed her lead and started for the hallway. William, however, turned back. “Jimmy, it’s time you told her everything.” Jimmy nodded, his expression growing even more intense. “I know.” She waited until the others had left, then asked, “What are you not telling me?” “I’ll tell you, but you have to promise you’ll stay until I’ve finished. No matter what, you have to stay. Can you do that?”

Saving Mandy

99

Was Jimmy’s secret even worse than Decker’s? She struggled against the fear tingling up her spine to stiffen her neck. “Okay. I promise. But please don’t tell me you’re in a gang, too. The others and you aren’t into gambling, are you? Or worse?” His hand on her arm was warm and comforting, but not enough to win the war against her nerves. “No, we’re not. Our businesses are strictly legal. But we do have one thing in common with Decker.” She wasn’t sure she could face another disappointment. Especially not when it came from Jimmy. Had she found love only to lose it? “You mean other than both of you being good-looking?” She tried to smile, tried to inject humor if only to lighten the weight suddenly resting on her shoulders. “I hope you think I’m better looking than Decker. And a hell of a lot sexier, too.” Even Jimmy’s grin couldn’t ease the tension. “Just tell me.” He paused, obviously taking a moment to find the right words. “Have you noticed anything different about my eye color at times? Or the others’ eyes?” “You’re talking about the flecks of amber? Yeah, I’ve noticed it, but lots of people’s eyes change color. You know, because of what they’re wearing and how colors change in different types of light.” “True, but our eyes change because of another reason.” “Then why?” He rose and paced away from her then slowly turned toward her. Amber eyes flashed, and she gasped. “Your eyes. They’re not just amber-flecked, they’re totally amber now. But how?” “Remember your promise, Mandy, and keep listening.” She nodded and dug her fingers into the couch. “Go on.” “Do you remember the wolf you saw after the hog attack?” “Yes.” “Do you remember seeing his eyes?” She thought back to the day, remembering the wolf, and saw the answer. “Oh, my God. He had amber eyes, too.”

100

Beverly Rae

“Wolves’ eyes aren’t that color.” “But his was. I know it. I saw him.” Her breathing shortened, her chest tightening. “Do you remember the men in your dreams?” Confused, she tilted her head. “Wait. How do you know about my dreams? And what do my dreams have to do with any of this?” “Answer the question, Mandy.” She closed her mind and saw her dream. But still the faces were hidden in the fog of her memory. “I remember them, but I can’t remember their faces.” “What color were their eyes?” Realization hit her, and if she hadn’t been sitting she would’ve collapsed to the floor. “They were amber. Like yours are now.” “Me and the others. We sent you those dreams. And the men, the wolves in the dreams? Those men who turned into wolves are us.” She couldn’t accept what he said. No one could accept such craziness. “Is this a joke? Because it’s not funny, and I want you to stop.” He was beside her, faster than any human could move. “Mandy, this isn’t a joke. You have to believe me. Michael, Sara, Cally, the others, and me? We’re werewolves. We can change into wolves any time we want.” She ran her gaze the length of him as though she’d see the wolf underneath his flesh. “This is insane.” “No, not insane. Different from what you know. Nothing more and nothing less. But there’s more.” She laughed, the sound brittle to her ears. “Oh, sure. Of course there is. The man I love told me that he and his friends are werewolves. But that’s not all, folks. Of course not. Pff. Werewolves are nothing. Come on, Jimmy, tell me the real secret.” He let out a long sigh. “Decker and his group? They’re werewolves, too.” She giggled then abruptly stopped. “What next? Is my mother a

Saving Mandy

101

werewolf, too? My father? Who else in my life are you going to say is a supernatural creature? How about my boss? Although he always reminded me of a troll.” Jimmy tugged her to him and pressed his lips to hers. Startled, she didn’t respond at first, and then slowly she kissed him back. Closing her eyes, she shoved the wild ideas out of her head and went blank, letting the texture of his lips on hers do her thinking. She moaned but kept her arms to her sides. When he pulled away from her, she almost cried. “Do you believe me, Mandy?” She couldn’t answer. Logic told her to run, to get away, but a stronger part of her kept her where she was. “Prove it.” “Are you sure you really want me to? It’s not an easy thing to see. At least not until you get used to it.” “I’m sure. Change into a wolf. Right here. Right now.” He won’t change. He can’t. Jimmy disrobed, dropping his clothes to the floor. She took in the wide shoulders, the strong arms, the flat stomach, and the impressive cock between his legs. He was all male and very human. But was he crazy? “You don’t look like a wolf.” “Wait a minute and watch.” His hair grew shorter, his body changing, growing smaller, shorter. Blond hair disappeared as yellow fur rolled in wave after wave over the tanned flesh. A cracking sound splintered her nerves, more cracks coming with the transformation of each limb. His bones broke and reformed, taking new angles. Jimmy’s face was no longer that of a handsome man. His eyes were still amber, but now they glowed with an animal-like intelligence that sent chills shuddering through her. Gone were his full lips and firm jawline, replaced by a muzzle and elongated mouth. Dagger-like fangs burst through his gums. Growling, he pulled his lips into a snarl, then fell to the ground on padded feet accented with

102

Beverly Rae

sharp claws. The wolf she’d seen in the brush stood in front of her. “Oh, my God.” The wolf took a step closer, paused as though waiting to see if she’d bolt, then padded toward her and placed his chin on her knee. She held her breath, her hands fisted next to her. Jimmy is a werewolf. She repeated the thought several times, trying to make what she’d seen, what she had in front of her real. Timid at first, then emboldened by his gentle touch, she reached out and stroked his muzzle. “I’m touching a wolf.” She stroked him again, growing bolder each time. “I’m actually touching a werewolf.” Maybe if she said the words enough, her brain would catch up to the reality standing in front of her. He gave her a whimper then backed away. Seconds later, the wolf was gone with Jimmy kneeling on his hands and knees. “It’s true. You’re really a werewolf.” Her hands shook but she wasn’t afraid. “I should be scared to death. Why aren’t I?” He rose and dressed, then took his place by her side. “Because you know in your heart I would never harm you.” He pressed his palm to her chest, covering her heart. “You know this was meant to be. You’re pack even though you’re not a werewolf. You’re one of us and my future mate.” “Werewolves.” She laughed then stroked his cheek as she’d stroked his fur only moments earlier. “Yes, we’re werewolves. Shape-shifters. Although we prefer to call our group the Night Runners.” “Because you run at night?” He pushed a strand of hair away from her cheek. “Yeah. Because we like to run at night. And to distinguish ourselves from other packs like Decker’s.” She skimmed her hand along his jawline, amazed not to find even

Saving Mandy

103

one yellow strand of fur. “And the others are part of your pack?” “Right. Including Sara. And Cally, who you haven’t met yet.” She nodded. “I’d like to meet Cally.” “You will. She’ll be home soon. But I need to tell you more. Do you think you can handle it?” Could she? “I’m not sure. But I want to hear everything.” “Yo, Jimmy! You’ve got visitors!” Mandy bolted to her feet along with Jimmy, but he pushed her back. “No. You stay here.” He was off and running toward the front door before she could refuse. She took off after him, disregarding his command. Jimmy skidded to a stop outside the front door. “What the hell?” Seeing her father, Mandy caught the edge of the door and pulled back to hide behind the wall. Her pulse raced as she pressed as close as she dared to the long, narrow window next to the door. Peeking through the curtain, she willed her pulse to slow down. Decker and five men stood, feet apart, glaring at Michael and the rest of the Night Runners. Glen Garland stood off to one side and darted his gaze between the two groups. “Where’s Mandy?” Decker took a step closer to Jimmy. “She’s safe. She’s inside.” “Tell her I’m here to take her home.” “She’s not going anywhere.” Jimmy jerked his thumb at Glen. “Not even with you.” Decker’s eyes changed, growing from dark to brilliant amber. “If you don’t send her out, Night Runner, then you’re going to have a problem on your hands. A big problem.” “Good. I’m glad you know who we are. Even a scumbag like you should know who puts him facedown in the dirt.” Jimmy crossed his arms and widened his stance, mimicking the way Decker stood. “Mandy! Mandy, girl, come out here.” Glen Garland’s voice wavered at Jimmy’s low growl. “She’s my daughter, and I have the right to talk to her.”

104

Beverly Rae

“You don’t deserve to be called her father.” Sara threw back her shoulders. “How anyone as nice as Mandy came from crap like you, I’ll never know.” “We’re wasting time, Decker,” grumbled the man on Decker’s left. A long scar drew a line down the middle of his face, extending from his left forehead to the right part of his chin. “You must be Scarface. I heard you were the best-looking one of your bunch.” Jimmy and the rest of the pack chuckled at Nick’s joke. Scarface snarled and jumped forward, but Decker held him back. “Wait.” Everyone turned toward Mandy, amber eyes zeroing in on her. She swallowed, wishing she could quench the sudden dryness in her mouth. “Mandy, honey, tell them you’re coming home with me.” Her father reached for her, but she ignored his hand, and he dropped it back to his side. “You knew Decker, didn’t you? I remember your face when you saw him with me. Tell me. Were you part of his scheme?” Her father opened his mouth, probably to deny her accusation, then closed it and nodded. Decker growled, sending her father scuttling farther away from the large man. He inched closer to the front porch. “Decker came to me after I lost the money. He told me he saw you and wanted you for his wife. He promised he’d forgive my debt if I told him where to find you. Then, when you showed up here, he made me play along and let him pretend to save me from his thugs. Once you married him, he’d forget about the money I owe him. But I don’t care no more. Can you forgive me, honey?” “You lying son of a bitch.” “I ain’t lying.” Glen yelped at Decker’s advance and slithered behind Ranlon. “After what I seen, I cain’t let you take my little girl.” Ranlon brushed the coward’s hands off him but allowed him to

Saving Mandy

105

stay behind him, keeping the small man away from Decker. “Why now? If you felt this way, why wait until now to tell me?” She wanted to believe her father. Needed to believe he wasn’t all bad. “Mandy, don’t buy his sorry routine. The plan’s busted and now he’s trying to get on your good side.” Sara’s expression left nothing to doubt. Disgust filled Mandy, rocking her to her core. “Sara’s right. The scheme worked. At least until today. You sold me to Decker just as sure as if he’d handed money to you.” “No, honey. Please forgive me.” Her father stretched his bony arms toward her. “I hope you rot in hell, Father.” Ice dripped from her words as she dug her hands in her jeans pocket. “As for you, Decker. Take this and shove it up your ass.” Throwing it as hard as she could, she flung the ring box at his head. He caught it and fisted his hand over it. “I think we’ve heard enough.” Jimmy slid his arm around her waist. “Mandy doesn’t want any part of either of you. Leave now and none of this has to go any further.” Decker lurched toward her before she knew what was happening. Jimmy pushed her aside, and Sara grabbed her in time to keep her from falling backward. Together the two women scrambled to the side of the porch and out of the way. Bones cracked and clothes shredded as both packs shifted. In less than a minute, twelve werewolves launched themselves at each other. Growls and snarls grew louder. Fangs and claws drew blood. Glen screamed and dashed off, running toward the back of the house. The wolves, their eyes blazing, attacked, darting in for a bite or a swipe of their large paws. Mandy held on to Sara, whose own eyes were amber-lit, and searched for Jimmy. “Where’s Jimmy? Is he hurt?” But she didn’t need Sara to point him out. A bellow split the air as Decker, now in the form of a huge black wolf, jumped at the golden

106

Beverly Rae

wolf. Jimmy leapt into the air, and the two wolves rammed into each other. They dug in their fangs and, snarling their rage, fell to the ground. Decker twisted, landing on top of Jimmy, pinning him. Decker lifted his head, his jaws wide, his teeth dripping saliva. Snarling, he dug his fangs into Jimmy’s neck. “No!” Mandy pushed Sara aside and raced down the steps. Without thinking, she flung her body at Decker. Although the black wolf was double her size, the momentum of her body was enough to push him off Jimmy. Decker landed on his side next to her but scrambled into a crouch before she could regain her breath. Jimmy staggered to his feet, using a nearby pile of broken tree limbs to steady himself. Blood oozed from the wound in his neck. Decker growled and moved closer to her, his fangs ready for the kill. She would’ve sworn she saw a grin on the golden wolf’s face. Seconds later, Jimmy had shifted, returning to his human form. He was unsteady on his feet and holding one hand behind his back. “Stay away from her, you asshole.” Decker’s head swung toward him, his eyes glittering with hatred. As the others fought around them, Decker leapt at Jimmy.

Saving Mandy

107

Chapter Nine “No!” Mandy screamed, shock washing over her. The werewolves broke apart, their attention focused on her. She ran to Jimmy, falling then picking herself back up before she finally landed beside the two bodies, one man and one werewolf. “Jimmy. Please no. Jimmy, answer me.” Clutching the fur on Decker’s back, she yanked as hard as she could. The black werewolf slid on top of her, and she shoved him away, fearing the gaping jaws. Lifeless amber eyes stared past her. A thick tree branch protruded from the center of his chest, the fur around it soaked in blood. “What ’cha doing, babe?” Jimmy lay on his back, grinning at her. “Jimmy. Oh, my God.” Running her hands over his body, she searched for other injuries, but was drawn back to the gaping wound on his neck. She blinked. The wound on his neck suddenly appeared smaller, blurring as new, undamaged skin replaced the torn flesh. “Ow. Hey, take it easy.” She pressed a palm to his cheek then laid her head against his chest. “You’re going to be okay.” “Sure I am. But I might need help getting back on my feet. My head’s still ringing from having two hundred pounds of werewolf flattening me like a pancake.” “Here, bro.” Michael, human once more, stood over them, his hand outstretched. “Let’s get you inside.” She glanced up, her face inches from Michael’s shaft. Oh, my God. Pulling her gaze away, she scanned the yard. The Night Runner

108

Beverly Rae

Werewolves, back in their human forms but still naked, checked each other’s injuries. Unexpected desire raked her, wetting her between her legs. Think. But not about that. “Where did the rest of Decker’s men, um, pack go?” Would she ever get used to seeing gorgeous men in the buff? Forget that. Would she ever get used to seeing men turn into wolves? Nick and William waved at her then followed Sara and Max into the house. “They hightailed it out of here once they saw that their leader was a goner.” Ranlon took Jimmy’s other arm and helped Michael lift him to his feet. “I don’t know where your father got off to. Do you want me to find him?” “Don’t bother. If I’m lucky, I’ll never see his face again.” Her earlier disgust filled her again, wiping away any hope of having her father in her life. Glancing back at the yard, she followed the three naked men up the stairs to the bedrooms. Their tight buttocks clenched and unclenched with their movements, renewing the heat between her legs. What was wrong with her? Jimmy had just survived a fight over her, and she was lusting after his friends? Yet hadn’t they all fought for her? She dropped her gaze and tried not to see how their long legs ran on for miles. It’s not like I’d do anything with his friends, right? Right? Yet she couldn’t stop her mind from drifting to the dreams. More than one man in her bed? Was there a reason her dreams always included multiple lovers? She cleared her throat and struggled to push the image of their big shafts out of her mind. “Put him in the guest room with me.” Michael and Ranlon exchanged a pleased look and did as she told them. Gently, they helped Jimmy onto her bed. “Guys, can you leave us alone?” Jimmy scooted his body to a sitting position, his back resting against the headboard. “Sure thing. Just let us know if you need anything.” Michael

Saving Mandy

109

shoved Ranlon out of the room. “Let’s get some clothes on, man.” “Speak for yourself.” Ranlon pushed Michael back. “Besides, if Jimmy has his way, we’re going to be back in here before long.” Mandy caught the look Jimmy shot Ranlon, but she waited for his friends to leave. She touched his wound, marveling at the alreadyhealing tissue. “What was Ranlon talking about?” “It’s what I wanted to tell you before the fight.” One look at his serious expression sent her nerves into high gear. “I’m not going to like this part, am I?” “I don’t know. Sara and Cally didn’t have any problems with it. But just know, nothing will ever happen if you don’t want it to.” “I’m confused.” He took her hand to capture it between both of his hands. “I want you, Mandy. I want you to be part of us.” “I thought you said I already was.” The hazel of his eyes grew brighter. “You are. But you’re not a true werewolf yet. I’m asking you to become a werewolf like me. Like the rest of us. Will you?” His question should’ve made her run. Yet, like before, she found herself thrilled at the news. How many times had she longed for a man like Jimmy? How many times had she’d yearned to feel included in a special group? “Before you answer, I should explain everything to you.” “Okay.” She scooted closer to him. “It’s not a coincidence that you came to Lost Hills.” A sting of alarm hit her. “Please don’t tell me you tricked me like Decker did.” “Not like that. No. But you were meant for us as I said. So that’s why we, the pack and I, sent you the dreams, Mandy.” The dreams were real. Having six men make love to her was real. “Then everything that happened in the dreams really happened?” He nodded, then drew her closer. “In a way, yes. We didn’t physically touch you, but it was real all the same.”

110

Beverly Rae

“But I don’t understand. It doesn’t bother you that your friends and I…” “No, it doesn’t.” He drew in a long breath. “I know this is difficult to understand. Human society doesn’t work this way. But this is the way of our kind. All the members of the pack are bonded. Not just emotionally, but physically. The dreams help us to know that you’ll accept all of us.” “So Sara and Cally had dreams, too?” No wonder Sara was so close to the men. “Sara did. Her dream brought her to us because she’s the first female of the pack, the alpha-female. We got lucky finding Cally. She was dancing and singing at a local saloon when Max found her.” “What does it mean that Sara’s an alpha-female?” “It means the men are all mated to her and can share her bed at any time. Even after we find our own mate.” “So, if I agree to be your mate, then you’ll still want to be with Sara?” Could she accept Jimmy having sex with another woman? Yet wasn’t she thinking about having sex with the rest of the men? “Yes. But I don’t want to. Not since I found you. I don’t want any other woman. Just you.” “What about Michael? I got the impression he and Sara were together.” “As the alphas of the pack, they have a stronger connection.” He smiled, giving her silent comfort. “I know this is hard to wrap your brain around. But there’s more.” “More?” Could she handle more? “To become one of us, you’ll go through an initiation.” He pressed a finger to her lips, shutting down her question. “An initiation is like your dreams. The entire male pack will take you to bed and bring you into the pack.” “So I turn into a werewolf by having sex with all of you?” She couldn’t help but giggle. Talk about a welcome-to-the-family party. “Not exactly. The pack as well as Sara and Cally have to approve

Saving Mandy

111

of you, and they already have. Even Cally has approved, based on our opinions of you. But after the initiation, I’ll have to bite you. That’s how I turn you into a werewolf, and soon after you’ll go through the Change.” Her mind whirled with everything he’d told her. Breaking away, she moved to the bedroom door and opened it. But did she want to leave? The voices of the others filtered up to her from below and she listened, loving the laughter and strong male voices mixed with Sara’s and another woman’s voice. “Sounds like Cally’s home.” She turned to him, closing the door on her past. “I can’t wait to meet her.” He cocked his head at her then lifted his eyebrows in question. “Does that mean you want to stay? To join us?” Her life would change, but for the better. Instead of the lonely life she led with her mother, she’d have a new family, friends who would stick by her no matter what. Hadn’t they already proved they would? “I don’t want to ever lose you, Jimmy.” He came to her, pulling her into his arms. “And I couldn’t stand the thought of living without you.” “But, except for initiations, you and me, we’d be mates and no one else?” “Right. Except for initiations only. Other than what needs to happen to keep the pack growing, to welcome new females, I’m all yours, and you’re all mine. It’s our way and has been since time began. Our children will continue the tradition.” His eyes danced with bits of amber. “Can you do this, Mandy? Can you join us?” “We’ll have children?” Her imagination took over, envisioning a little boy with amber-filled eyes. “We can after you’re a werewolf. And yes, they’ll be werewolves. They turn when they go through puberty.” She widened her eyes with alarm that was only part pretend. “Teenage werewolves? Wow.”

112

Beverly Rae

He laughed, the warmth of the sound carrying into her heart. “Yeah. Wow.” “Will Sara and Cally be part of the initiation?” Already her body buzzed with need, memory of the dreams filling her mind. “No. The women are never part of another woman’s initiation.” She leaned against him, needing to take a moment to let her new existence take shape. “Will it hurt?” Even now she could remember the sound of his bones breaking, reforming into wolf form. “Yes. But we’ll help you get past the pain. And we’ll help you during the first few transformations, too. It gets easier every time you shift. But there are so many good things about being a shape-shifter. You’ll see things in a different way, smell things you’ve never smelled before, hear better than ever. And the sex? Holy crap, the sex is amazing.” She closed her eyes and inhaled, drawing in his unique scent. She raised her head to study his strong face, his worry etched into his forehead. Drawing him to her, she kissed him, giving him her answer. He enveloped her in his arms, holding her so tightly she found it hard to breathe. But his kiss kept her alive, his tongue a present she accepted with joy. She was breathless when the kiss ended. Breathless, yet more alive than ever before. “How soon can you make me one of the pack?” “Right now if you want.” She opened the door without turning him loose. “Go tell the others I’m ready.” **** The men, naked, their shafts already erect, filed into the bedroom and gathered around the bed where Mandy waited, her nude body covered by a sheet. She took in every muscle, every inch of male flesh. Lust burned bright inside her, and her pussy tightened in

Saving Mandy

113

anticipation. “You’re sure?” Jimmy’s hazel eyes met hers, the heat in them lit with amber. “I’m sure.” She threw off the sheet then reached for him, pulling him next to her. Running her hand over his shoulder, she urged him to take a nipple into his mouth. He groaned and cupped her breasts then nipped at the taut bud. She drew in his scent. She would recognize him from the others just by his scent alone. Michael moved to her other side and sat next to her. “Welcome to the pack, Mandy.” Leaning forward, he skimmed his lips over hers. She cupped him behind the neck and intensified the kiss, drawing his tongue in. She jerked, the others piling on the bed. Nick slid between her legs, pushing her wide. “I’m glad you’re joining us.” He flicked his tongue over her folds then spread them to do the same to her wet clit. She sighed, mixing her sound with the soft murmurs of the men as they kissed and fondled her. Max moved next to Jimmy to slide his fingers along her thigh, then under her bottom. Feathering ticklish kisses along the crease between her leg and thigh, he spoke soft words she couldn’t understand. William kissed her bellybutton, his hand stroking his cock. Ranlon placed her right leg over his and pumped his own erect shaft. “Take me.” Michael’s tone was gruff as he offered her his shaft. She drew him in, delighting in his groan of pleasure. Sliding her hand along Jimmy’s body, she reached for his cock and wrapped her hands around the soft, vein-filled flesh. The heat from his shaft burned into her palm then spread through her arm to meet the fire scorching outward from her core. Nick sucked on her, flicking his tongue over her clit, and her body responded, bucking with the rush of the first orgasm. She cried out, her warm breath flooding over Michael’s cock. “Please.” She wasn’t sure who or what she meant, but she had to have someone, something more.

114

Beverly Rae

Nick rose as Ranlon and Max bent her legs. Nick moved closer, placing his shaft at her pussy. Nick glanced at Jimmy, who nodded. With a grunt, Nick pushed inside her, ramming into her so hard that he moved her body toward the headboard. She cried out but kept her mouth around Michael and her hand on Jimmy. Thrusting his hips, Nick plunged into her time and again, a rapt expression locked on his face. He increased his speed, and her body clamped around his cock, pulling him in. Releasing Michael, she cried out, the sensations boiling her from within. She wrapped her legs around Nick and held on, demanding he do his best. Within minutes, she saw the climax start first on his face then travel down his body as he tensed for release. The muscles in his chest worked, and she longed to run her fingers over the flat stomach to the curly mass below. Nick released, then fell to the side, spent. “Move off, man.” Max shoved Nick away then urged her to turn on her side. “Are you okay with this?” Okay was not the correct word. She wanted him, needed him to enter her from behind. She nodded then turned her mouth on Jimmy. Michael grumbled but continued stroking himself. Her body shook, lust and need working her into a frenzy. She wanted these men, had wanted them from the first time she’d had the dream. Looking into Jimmy’s amber eyes, she sent him a silent message. I’m saving you for last. The best for last, Jimmy. Just you. His amber eyes sparkled his answer. Max slid his hand along her buttocks then pushed two fingers into the tight hole. She tensed then took deep breaths, willing her body to relax. “Easy, Mandy. I’ll be gentle.” She nodded, jerking again as his rubbed a cool gel around her puckered opening. The tight rings closed around his fingers. He worked his fingers in and out then replaced them with the tip of his

Saving Mandy

115

cock. Ranlon cupped her mons and took one leg over the crook of his arm. Rubbing his shaft against her, he teased her until, at last, he slid into her. Her breath hitched in her throat, and she closed her eyes. Concentrating, she imagined the tips of their cocks meeting in the middle of her. Emotion filled her, welling tears to her eyes. The men were giving her more than mere sex. They were offering themselves to her and pledging their loyalty. Somehow she’d found the home she hadn’t known she needed. Michael shouted his release, the sound starting as a roar then changing into a growl. She opened her eyes to watch his body shudder. Touching her cheek in a tender meaning, he moved away from her and hurried to the other side of the room where Nick stood, his back pressed against the wall. Ranlon and Max pumped into her, their hands gripping her flesh. Drawing William to her, she let go of Jimmy’s shaft and took William’s. She watched the men, feeling powerful and sexy. She drew in William’s shaft time and again, pulling hard then soft and driving him to the brink. Ranlon and Max came together, each pulling out and turning away from her. Their roars of release echoed each other, giving her a wave of primal desire. These were her men now. “Jimmy.” Her love moved between her legs then onto his stomach to press his lips to hers. His hot breath renewed her passion, and she couldn’t help but pump William harder, faster. William tensed, stilling as though he fought to keep from losing control. But he lost the battle, pulling away from her and stumbling toward the bathroom. Jimmy grinned at her, his amber eyes laughing along with his voice. “It’s just you and me now.” She returned his smile. “Now and forever.” Jimmy took her pussy with his teeth and tongue then, hard and

116

Beverly Rae

fast, spun her into another orgasm. She bucked to get away from the delicious torment, yet wanting to stay where she was. A flood of passion tumbled through her. “Now, Jimmy.” He did as she pleaded, rising to plunge into her. She bolted to a sitting position, and he pulled her on top of his thighs. Moving in sync, she rode him. He took her breast in his mouth and sucked, and then he clutched her butt cheeks to keep her on top of him. She circled her hips, giving more sensation to his powerful thrusts. She dug her nails into his back, hanging on. Her pants echoed his thrusts, and she threw her head back in a silent scream. His wide shoulders curved forward as he held her and kissed her shoulder. The sensations along her skin and inside her tumbled through her as her long hair lightly touched her back and the tips of her breasts rubbed against his chest. The other men returned, closing in to whisper tender words of love and loyalty. She could feel the heat of their amber eyes, smell the wildness of their scents. She trembled with desire and love. Her body shook, the wave of the powerful orgasm raking through her. Jimmy’s groan matched her own as he stiffened then released. “Change her, Jimmy.” He laid her back on the bed, concern softening his expression. “Are you ready?” She nodded and licked her lips. The men crowded around her with Jimmy holding his body over hers. He shifted then, and she watched, fascinated. The amber of his eyes deepened, and his mouth elongated until fangs, shiny and white, burst through his gums. Her breathing quickened as fear tried to take hold. But she fought against it, reminding herself that these men cared about her. She took his face in her hands then turned her head, exposing her neck and shoulder. Pain ripped into her shoulder as Jimmy’s fangs dug into her flesh. Hands held her arms and legs as she struggled. She cried out, not to

Saving Mandy

117

ask for freedom, but to give the pain a voice. Her body jerked as heat, different from sexual desire, rolled into her muscles, her veins, her blood. The world around her blurred then lost its color and turned to an amber-world. She moaned, her strength fading as the darkness took her. **** “Hey, babe.” Jimmy’s voice beckoned to her, giving her the energy to fight through the black that held her. She blinked at the bright sunlight spilling into the room. The men, her pack, crowded around her bed, dressed again in their jeans and shirts. A sheet covered her naked body, and she pulled it closer against the chill. “Ow.” She moaned, only now feeling the pain. “Drink this.” Ranlon brought the cup to her lips while Jimmy held up her head, helping her to drink. Putrid-smelling liquid gagged her, but at their urging, she swallowed the vile potion. “I know it’s awful, but it’ll help you heal.” She couldn’t see Michael, but she recognized his voice. She tried to touch her neck, but Jimmy took her hand and squeezed it. “Don’t worry. You’re already healing.” “Like you did?” “Yeah. But we helped by licking you. I know it sounds gross, but it works.” “You licked me? All of you?” “Except Cally and me.” Although it was painful to move, Mandy twisted her head to find Sara and a beautiful blonde woman standing in the doorway. The blonde gave her a little wave. “Hi, Mandy. I’m Cally.” “You two will have plenty of time to get acquainted. But she needs to rest first.” Sara motioned for the men to leave and, one by

118

Beverly Rae

one, they welcomed Mandy to the pack again then strode from the room. Sara and Cally followed the men out and closed the door behind them. “I should give you time to rest, too. But just call if you need me.” Jimmy started to move away from her, but she grabbed him, keeping him with her. “I don’t want you to leave. Besides, I have so many questions.” “Like what?” “Like how we’re going to live. We’ll stay here with the others, right?” “Yeah, the pack sticks together. Is that okay?” She smiled, joy tingling her body. “I wouldn’t want anything else.” “Then what’s wrong? Why do you look so sad?” She shook her head, then decided he had to know. “I’m worried about my mother. She’s grown so close to Decker. Now that I’ve left him, he won’t help her any longer. How will I tell her? How can I move here and leave her alone?” Jimmy stroked her cheek. “If you’d like, I can go with you when you tell her about Decker. Or you could bring her to Lost Hills. She can’t live at the ranch, but we could build her a nice house close by. But remember, babe, you can never tell her about the pack even though she’s bound to hear some of the townspeople talking.” “If only…” He searched her face. “If only what?” “She’s always talked about moving to Florida to be with her best friend, Milly Watkins. Milly’s about the only friend she’s kept in touch with during all our moves. I know it’s asking a lot, but do you think we could help her do that? Then she wouldn’t be alone. Especially if we visited her in Miami every so often.” “Miami, huh?” He gave her request a minute of consideration then grinned. “We’ll do whatever makes you happy. If that means moving your mom to Miami, then Miami, here she comes.”

Saving Mandy

119

Mandy struggled not to cry. How had she gotten so lucky? “I can’t thank you enough.” “You don’t have to. You’re pack now and we take care of our own.” They held each other, content with their thoughts for several minutes. “Jimmy, what about the Change? When will I shift?” “Soon enough. And when you do, you’ll come running with the pack. By my side, under the stars.” “What if I get into trouble in the future? I mean what if Decker or my father comes back?” She gasped. “What if my father tells everyone about you, us, about the pack?” Jimmy pulled her next to him, his quick embrace giving her the comfort she needed. “Don’t worry about it. I’ll always be around to save you.” She snuggled against him, her energy fading. Closing her eyes, she pressed her head against his chest and listened to the strong beat of his heart. He’d saved her from Decker and her father, but most of all, he’d saved her from a life without him.

THE END WWW.BEVERLYRAE.COM

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Beverly Rae’s witty, sexy, action-packed romances give readers the ultimate reading experience. As a multi-published author, Beverly is always working on her next book, taking the “usual” and twisting it into the “unusual.”

Also by Beverly Rae Siren LoveXtreme Special Edition: Night Runner Werewolves 1: Howling for Sara Siren LoveXtreme Special Edition: Night Runner Werewolves 2: Chasing Cally

Available at BOOKSTRAND.COM

Siren Publishing, Inc. www.SirenPublishing.com