Vampire War

When Booker and Rider are invited to reunite with their rock band, they encounter a surprise guest at their first show. A rival vampire is making moves in their territory and on their woman. In a hasty decision, Zoe takes matters into her own hands to avenge the death of her comrades who are ambushed by a cunning enemy. However, she finds herself in over her head with this new foe when he forces her hand. In a wicked game of seduction, there can be only one winner. Does Night Brigade’s lead angel have what it takes to seduce Stoke and uncover his secret? Can her life-mates save her when the tables turn?

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. Please purchase only authorized electronic editions, and do not participate in or encourage the electronic piracy of copyrighted materials. Your support of the author’s rights is appreciated. This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents either are products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events or locales or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental. Vampire War Copyright © 2012 Storm Savage ISBN: 978-1-77111-081-5 Cover art by Martine Jardin All rights reserved. Except for use in any review, the reproduction or utilization of this work in whole or in part in any form by any electronic, mechanical or other means, now known or hereafter invented, is forbidden without the written permission of the publisher. Published by eXtasy Books Look for us online at: www.eXtasybooks.com

Vampire War Night Angels Three By Storm Savage

For Austin. My faithful companion who never left my side during those endless nights of writing, even as the sun rose. Your warm presence will be forever missed. Until we meet again, my friend…I will write and hopefully feel your spirit lighting my way. And for Cuppycake ~ Thank you.

Prologue

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on’t make a sound or I’ll take you out right here right now,” Erin whispered. Paige glared back at her with open contempt, but held her tongue. “I’m not sure if they’d be pissed or not. But I don’t want to find out. I wanted you to see what you gave away.” She held Paige by the thick of her hair, forcing her to watch the lovers on the beach. Erin licked her lips in excited anticipation. Having accidentally come across Zoe and her two vampire studs one night while roaming along the coast, she’d continued returning to the scene with Paige, hoping to witness their mating again. Tonight luck fell in her favor. The threesome had come back to their previous spot. Frolicking waves shimmered beneath the light of a silvery moon as they rolled ashore mere inches from the three rulers of her vampire clan. “That Booker is such a stud…don’t you agree? Blond, rock star hair and his rebel style,” Erin murmured in Paige’s ear, knowing how she lusted for the alpha male. “And Rider…mm, that tall, dark alluring hunk of man, you had him right in your bed and let him get away.” She settled behind the rocks to observe, keeping a tight hold on Paige’s hair. Zoe is stunning! What a gorgeous trio they make. Erin glanced at her captive to be sure she was watching, then turned her focus to the scene unfolding upwind about twenty feet away. She doubted they’d be able 1

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to smell her, but the tang of their sex floated on a breeze and she breathed it in. Two brothers—one with dark blond spirals hanging almost to his waist and mesmerizing eyes the color of blue skies—the other also draped in very long curls, dark chocolate in color with even darker eyes that melted into smoldering pools of desire. Both men stood very tall and muscular with rippling abs. Having fought by their side and experiencing their undeniable charisma up close, Erin sighed, entranced by their aura even at a distance. Long, sexy arms and legs supported the voluptuous body of their queen while they fed at her neck. They held her between them, spreading her long legs as she wound an arm around each strong neck. For a woman on the smaller side, Zoe had legs that never quit—Erin sighed longingly, wishing that her leader swung both ways—she’d do anything to be part of that. From her position, Erin caught a glimpse of their massive cocks before they disappeared between Zoe’s creamy thighs. Zoe’s head dropped back against Rider’s shoulder and an expression of wondrous pleasure swept over her pretty face. Her waist length golden hair tumbled backward to mingle with his dark strands. Both men moved in unison, thrusting repeatedly into her body, giving Zoe ultimate penetration with all that hot, male sex while drinking her blood. Erin felt an intense throbbing in her core. Another glance at Paige revealed that her captive had also become rapt in this erotic scene. They couldn’t seem to look away. Watching the muscles flex in those powerful legs while driving their cocks into Zoe’s sex left Erin gasping for breath. Reluctantly she started pulling Paige back before they were spotted. Surely the three vampires locked in mating would sense their presence if they stayed too long. “Geez, Paige. I can’t believe you didn’t want to be a part 2

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of that,” Erin said once they returned to her cabin. “I’m not into feeding on human blood like a savage.” Erin shook her head with a tsk sound. “And that’s why you’re now my prisoner until Night Brigade decides what to do with you.” “What do you mean?” “Zoe left your fate in our hands. She couldn’t bring herself to kill you.” Erin gave Paige a shove, pushing her onto the bed. “You were her best friend and betrayed her. I can’t believe you set out to hurt a great leader like Zoe. She never did anything but good for you.” Paige rolled her eyes. “Why don’t you start a fan club then?” “Better watch your mouth, bitch.” Erin chained her to the bedframe. “Or I’ll beg the clan to make you my slave. Though your blood doesn’t compare to adrenaline-spiked male blood, it suffices between feedings. You should have heard your boyfriend begging for mercy before I drank his. His fear made for one hell of a rush when I drained his blood.” “You? You killed Travis?” “Don’t worry, he didn’t suffer much.” Erin smirked with a wicked laugh. “In fact, he offered to fuck me to spare his life.” “You’re lying.” “Ha! He was screwing you while married to Zoe so why wouldn’t he cheat on you, too? Believe what you want, but the bottom line is that you and Travis set out to destroy Zoe, then tried to kill Rider and now you’re paying the price.” “Oh well.” Paige shrugged with sudden indifference. “I wasn’t going back to Oklahoma anyway.” “Aren’t you a piece of work…is there anyone you won’t step on to serve your own selfish needs? You left Travis and the others there to die while you ran off.” 3

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“I’m not stupid,” Paige snapped. “I knew that after I attacked Rider that Zoe would unleash the hounds. I had other plans until the dust settled.” “Unbelievable.” Erin shook her head. “You sure put up a good front…had fooled us all into believing you wanted Rider when you were simply using his blood to become immortal.” “I hadn’t fooled Rider long enough though.” Paige sighed in open angst. “He ran straight to Zoe when I quit letting him feed on me.” “Smart man—considering you were going to try and start a new breed with his blood. Zoe is the right woman for him and Booker. She always has been.” “If I recall,” Paige began in a taunting voice. “You had a thing for Rider. Doesn’t it bother you that she has both men and you have none?” “Your head games won’t work on me,” Erin snarled. “Unlike you, I want what’s best for Rider and know it’s not me. He wants a life mate and I’m a wild, lusty vamp. I’m happy for him.” She leaned over Paige again with narrowed eyes. “And I’m thrilled that your plan failed. The thought of you mixing his pure blood with yours to try and start a new clan is sickening.” Paige looked away in apparent defeat, but Erin clutched her hair. “I’ve developed quite an appetite watching them and I smelled your arousal, too. Tell me you didn’t get turned on watching Booker drive that magnificent cock into Zoe’s hot little body. You wanted him.” “Whore,” muttered Paige. “I won’t deny it. At least I’ve never left a man so unsatisfied he ran to another woman.” Erin lowered her mouth toward Paige’s neck. “I’ll give you a choice tonight. I won’t feed on your blood if you satisfy me in another way.” 4

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She jerked away in open shock. “Never!” With a casual shrug, Erin sighed before pinning her to the bed. “Too bad, we could’ve had some fun.” Saliva flooded her mouth as she bent forward to place her bite.

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Chapter One

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eren’t you engaged to Mott?” Zoe’s head shot up at the silent approach of a stranger. “Who are you?” She looked him over as he boldly took a seat across from her. He didn’t look familiar and his distinctive appearance would have surely left an imprint on her mind. Shiny black straight hair framed his face in layers and hung just a few inches past the collar of his black leather vest. She stared into the black eyes flecked with green—the lash line so prominent it gave the appearance of eyeliner. Yet she could see the thick border of black lashes creating the effect. Even with those intriguing eyes, his appeal did not compare to Booker’s or Rider’s. He did, however, carry an unusual level of allure that felt disconcerting and a peculiar scent that bothered her. “Name is Stoke.” He offered her one hand in greeting. Feeling immediately uneasy, she declined his gesture by tucking her hands onto her lap. “I don’t know you. I’d like you to leave.” She didn’t want anyone reminding her of the past. The mere mention of Mott’s name forced a bitter taste to her mouth. “You’re Zoe, right?” He ignored her request to leave and remained planted on the chair. “May I buy you a drink?” “No…I’m here with someone.” His gaze swept the restaurant, then focused intently on 6

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her. “Ah, okay. Well, I’m sorry to hear about your fiancé.” “Don’t be. I’m not.” “I heard Mott had an unfortunate…accident, on the road.” His smooth voice carried a hint of irony. “Guess he got in over his head.” “I wouldn’t know. We broke up before his demise.” She stole a quick glance around, wondering when Booker would return. Suddenly her uninvited guest seemed anxious. “I see.” His eyes darted toward the bar. “Perhaps we’ll meet again.” She followed his line of vision, but saw nothing except an endless sea of strangers mingling, drinking and dining. Still, no sign of her mate. Turning back to face the man who’d called himself Stoke, she discovered he’d gone without a sound. A peculiar shiver trickled up her spine. She shook it off, deducing that his uncomfortable effect on her had been related to the fact he must’ve known Mott. “Sorry I took so long, angel.” Booker slid into the booth beside her not more than a few seconds later and placed a soft kiss on her forehead. “Garret is a chatty one.” “Did you find out why he wanted to see you?” “He has a band in San Francisco looking for a lead guitarist and a drummer. He sounded desperate and said he needs someone to play when the other bands are off.” “And he wants you and Rider to fill the slots, right?” Booker nodded. “Been a long time since we played.” “What did you tell him?” Zoe had often wondered if he’d pick up his guitar again. He draped an arm over her shoulders and leaned into her. “That I’d think about it.” “Garret drove all the way up here to ask you this? You must have been very good.” He smiled that typical modest smile she loved so much. “Ah, like I told you when we first met, I can jam. But those 7

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days were long ago. Garret must be desperate to come so far for a couple old dudes like us.” “It’s a very long commute. How often would you have to play?” “The gigs would only be a couple weekends a month. I’d enjoy taking you away for some fun and a change in scenery.” He laid one hand alongside her cheek. “You sound worried.” “No, not really,” she said with a slight shrug. “The pack has settled in nicely. I see no reason to play babysitter.” “Have they decided what to do with our prisoner yet?” He motioned the server to refill their drinks. “Erin has not yet reported to me on what they’ve decided to do with Paige.” “Are you hoping they terminate her?” Zoe sipped her fresh daiquiri while contemplating an answer. “You’d think I would after what she’s done, but I’m not a coldblooded killer. Paige seems so messed up…in a psychotic way. I almost feel sorry for her. What kind of woman sets out to become best friends with her lover’s wife?” “A jealous one, she wanted to be you.” She laughed. “I don’t know why. An abusive marriage followed by a maniac fiancé doesn’t exactly shout bragging rights.” “I know you went through hell with Travis and Mott and I also suffered some heartbreak long ago.” He placed a sweet, lingering kiss on her lips. “But if you think about it, all three relationships played their part in bringing us together.” Gazing into his sparkling blue eyes, she sighed dreamily. “Yes…they did. I couldn’t be happier.” Booker gave her a wink that made her shiver. “We are sealed in blood, angel…the three of us bound for eternity.” 8

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“Speaking of which, where is Rider? Why didn’t he come along? I thought for sure he’d come back in time to ride out with us.” “He enjoys time to himself now and then. Before you came into our lives, Rider drifted around the country. We’ve never smothered each other.” “I noticed that.” She mindlessly traced the rim of her glass. “I worry at times that he may feel like a third wheel in our relationship.” “Nah,” Booker said with a casual shake of his head. “My brother has no issues with his confidence, trust me. He’s simply a very classy dude.” “So are you.” His expression shifted from open adoration to something deeper, yet he didn’t speak his mind. She felt him reaching into her thoughts. “What?” she asked. “Are you going to tell me or must I ask?” “Oh…I didn’t know you saw him. Why did you wait so long to bring it up?” Lines on his ruggedly handsome face tightened slightly. “I shouldn’t have had to bring it up. Who was he?” “I have no idea and didn’t read much into it. I asked him to leave, but he wouldn’t. Then he simply disappeared just before you returned.” She slid one hand into his silky curls while searching his eyes. “I never saw him before, baby. I wasn’t flirting or anything. I refused his offer to buy me a drink and barely said a word to him.” A soft smile replaced the stern look. “I trust you, my love. I just don’t like seeing an unknown man chatting with my woman. Did he give his name?” “Yeah…he said his name is Stoke. Honestly, I didn’t want to dwell on it since he was an old friend of Mott’s.” Booker drew her close so that her head rested in the curve 9

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of his shoulder. “What makes you think they were friends?” “I just assumed…because he knew my name and knew that I had been engaged to Mott, then offered condolences over Mott’s accident, as he called it.” Zoe looked up at him. “Maybe he’s a reporter looking for a story.” “Never assume. Mott knew a lot of people because of his fame. I’m sure they weren’t all friends.” “I’m sorry.” She sighed, frustrated over her lack of discernment. “He approached out of nowhere and the first thing he did was ask about Mott…threw me off guard.” Booker gently lifted her chin with one finger so that their eyes met. “What was the last thing he said?” Thinking it a strange question, she wrinkled her brow in thought. “Um…he looked toward the bar, then said, perhaps we’ll meet again.” “I don’t like it.” An ominous tone laced his voice. “If you see him again, tell me without delay.” Zoe nodded in compliance. “Hopefully I won’t. But I promise if he shows up again I will come to you at once. I didn’t like him…he made me uneasy and smelled odd.” “Oh?” Booker arched his brows. “How so?” “Strange…like strong cologne or something pungent that annoyed me.” “Did he touch you?” “No. Like I said, I wasn’t exactly welcoming. He offered to shake my hand, but I pulled away. You have nothing to worry over.” “I’m not questioning your loyalty, my love.” Concern flitted through his eyes. “We’ll just have to take a closer look at this Stoke person if he shows up again.” She trusted her mate with everything, even her life. If Booker held the slightest trepidation over the fleeting appearance of a stranger, she’d not dismiss his concerns. Though Stoke seemed nothing more than a nosy past 10

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acquaintance of Mott’s, his sudden manifestation had clearly disturbed Booker. She never wanted to give him cause for doubt. Their precarious world of vampirism continued to take her by surprise at times. They rode back to camp on his awesome Harley. Zoe never tired of riding with him. Though she had a bike of her own, lately she’d grown attached to sliding on back of Booker’s. She enjoyed the freedom of relaxing and allowing her hands to roam over his muscular body—especially those sexy thighs thinly covered in worn denim. His gorgeous blond mane whipped around her in the tailwind, bringing on that untamed feeling as if they’d become one with nature. He possessed a feral aura that kept her suspended somewhere between reality and ecstasy—his willing captive in every sense. Fading rays of golden light from a setting sun picked up color from the fall foliage. The sweet scent of autumn filled the air. “A six hour ride with you sounds like sheer heaven,” she said once they’d parked behind their home and dismounted. “I didn’t mean to seem reluctant back at the bar. I’d enjoy going down to San Francisco on the weekends. We are rather remote here and don’t see much action.” He turned toward her with a smile. “I know, sugar. But I couldn’t very well move a large group of vampire biker chicks into a suburb. The women don’t seem to mind the location.” “Oh I don’t mean to sound ungrateful…I love it here. What you and Rider have given Night Brigade goes beyond generous and they are elated to be united in one place. You’ve made them immortal and provided a place for them to call home. I know they don’t mind taking road trips into the cities. I see them coming and going all the time.” 11

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“Even so,” he began while stroking her hair. “You miss city life, don’t ya?” “Just a little.” She offered him a sheepish smile. “I enjoyed the constant energy when living in New York, yet this is nice, too, though the weather is rather cold and damp. So peaceful and we can make love on the beach. Perhaps driving down to the city on weekends would be perfect.” “We don’t have to play every weekend and it’s not definite as I still need to run it by Rider.” “Run what by Rider?” a man’s voice asked from behind. Booker looked over her shoulder with a broad grin. “Garret wants us to play a couple small gigs a month with his band down in Frisco.” She turned to see Rider rounding the corner of the house toward the small parking area designated for their bikes. He strolled over to them. Her heart raced at the sight of him, overjoyed at his return home. “What did you tell him?” Rider asked, then slid one hand into the thick of her hair. “Hey, baby doll.” His mouth covered hers in a delicious greeting. “Did you enjoy the ride?” Zoe nodded and returned his warm smile, staring for a moment into his smoldering dark eyes. He looked hot decked out in skin-tight black leather. He must’ve just ridden in. “I said we’d think about it.” Booker wrapped an arm about her waist as they meandered around to the front porch and up the stone steps. “Good to be home.” Rider opened the door and they went inside. A mid-November chill breezing off the ocean had left the interior feeling a bit cold so Booker lit a fire in the hearth. “Zoe misses city life,” Booker said with a wink. “Just a little I said.” She gave him a playful nudge. “I’d 12

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much rather raise our baby on this lovely stretch of land you purchased for us.” “I’m not sure if riding down to Frisco every week would be a good idea while she’s expecting,” Rider added. “I’m not even two months along. The baby isn’t due until June. I’ll be fine.” She gave him a quirky look. “Like Booker said, weekend getaways sound fun, especially on the bikes and it’s not every week.” Booker nestled in beside her on the sofa. “We can back off if the trips become too stressful for her.” “I’d like to get away now and then even though I love our home. We’ve been here less than a couple months yet it already feels homey.” “I’ve always preferred living away from the public.” Rider moved in closely on her other side. “Now that we have you, it’s even better.” He brushed his lips along her cheek. She laid her head back with a contented sigh. “I missed you today, Rider. You could’ve kept me company while your brother talked business. I didn’t really care for that bar.” “Seems our Zoe attracted the attention of another male,” Booker said. “Do you know anyone by the name of Stoke?” Rider shook his head. “Who does he ride with?” “Not sure if he rides with anyone, but he knew Mott. I caught him drooling over her. He made a quick exit when he saw me.” Zoe wrinkled her brow. “You were watching and didn’t tell me? I thought you trusted me.” “I do trust you and of course I was watching. Do you think I’d leave you alone in a strange bar? Though I had business to discuss with Garret I still kept a watchful eye on you, my love.” “So what did he want?” Rider asked. 13

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“I don’t know.” She couldn’t hide the frustration in her voice. Nevertheless, she relayed the details again to Rider, then added, “And I hardly think he was drooling over me.” Booker refused to be dissuaded. “Angel, you don’t see yourself the way we do. We know when another male is putting on moves.” She released a doubtful laugh. “Well…you must have shooed him away, thank God, because he didn’t listen when I told him to leave.” Rider gave Booker a look and Zoe caught the suspicion in their eyes. Something about the stranger’s appearance seemed to truly disturb them. She decided not to press. The last thing she felt like discussing was her past and the unwelcome encounter had been a stark reminder. “I’m hungry. Do you guys want something to eat?” “Yeah…” Rider bit at her ear. Booker’s teeth grazed her neck. “You smell incredibly inviting…” Their teasing created an ache between her thighs, however the growling in her stomach could not be denied. She playfully laughed while wriggling out from under them. “I meant from the kitchen.” She gave them an admonishing look, then laughed again at their soulful expressions. “I’ll be back.” After a quick trip upstairs to trade her riding clothes for an oversized sweatshirt and leggings, she rummaged through the refrigerator until deciding upon cherry yogurt and a slice of whole grain bread. She needed to eat healthier now to care for her unborn child. The shock of her late-life pregnancy still felt surreal. She hadn’t been able to conceive during her lengthy marriage and assumed the infertility had been on her part. One month with Booker had proven her wrong. Yet paternity hadn’t been established because during 14

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that time Rider had joined them in their first vampire mating. She sighed blissfully while eating her yogurt, thinking back to that heavenly night when both men had bitten her neck and drank her blood, then mated her at the same time. Having both gorgeous immortals pouring their love over her and into her had been the most incredible experience of her life. They’d treated her to another, more intense double mating on Halloween, the night of the moon as they called it. Then again only a few nights ago she’d had the pleasure of receiving them together on the beach. Just the recollection induced a surge of warmth between her legs. One of these irresistible brothers is the father to my child. A warm feeling floated over her. She loved them equally—Booker the fierce protector and Rider with his gentle strength. Both carried staggering charisma and sensuality and held her heart in their hands. She tossed the empty yogurt cup into the trash, swept breadcrumbs into the sink, then turned to head back into the main room. “I missed you, too.” Rider had approached without a sound, making her gasp in surprise. He stood mere inches before her, towering over her with his impressive height. Pinned between his hard body and the counter, she gazed up into his captivating eyes and felt a rush of excitement. His lips touched hers several times, then moved over her face with intense affection, leaving a feathery trail of tender kisses before returning to her mouth. A soft moan rose in her throat as his tongue plunged deep and her hands slid into his silky spirals. They merged into a wildly passionate kiss, drawing each other close in a tight embrace. Then suddenly he lifted her off the floor and laid her back on the table. Maintaining eye contact, he removed her 15

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leggings and lace panties with wild urgency. Heavy breathing swirled around her. His mouth covered hers again in a scorching kiss. She sucked his tongue to the back of her throat with arms tightly wound about his strong neck. She heard him unzip his fly, then powerful hands slid along her bare thighs and pulled her hips to the table’s edge before moving beneath her loose shirt. His teeth grazed her neck. “I love you, girl.” A slight gasp, then a soft whimper as his huge cock thrust between her legs that had nowhere to go but around his waist. One muscular arm braced her back while his free hand caressed her breasts. Clinging to him while he took her again and again, she couldn’t resist the urge to bite. Her teeth pierced his skin and the heady taste of his blood warmed her soul. “Ah yeah, sweet thing…” he groaned in obvious pleasure. “Fuck…” Their joining was impulsive, untamed and laden with the need to connect. They hadn’t been alone together in over a week since he’d been out riding. She drew hungrily at the point of invasion until her craving had been slaked. Her bite had taken him over the edge as it often did. “You’re making me crazy.” She breathed out the words. Heat emanated between them as their excitement mounted while he skillfully manipulated her sex with his. She wanted to cry out in ecstasy. He felt amazing, moving inside her body, reaching into those deepest recesses to relieve the ache of desire. “Mm, baby…” His body shuddered. “I can’t hold back.” He swept her hair to one side, then bit down at the same instant his release flooded her core. She softly cried out as he sucked her neck and the surge of hot liquid triggered her impending orgasm. “Ohhh…” Spasms gripped her. “You feel so good.” 16

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His eyes met hers when he lifted his head—an engaging smile curved his lips. The urgent thrusting had settled into blissfully loving, rhythmic strokes. They gazed at each other while continuing to make slow, sweet love. “Now that’s a proper greeting for your mate,” he murmured with an easy smile. In a soft, relenting voice she countered with, “I could say the same.” Delicately, he nipped at her lower lip. “Yes…you could.” Booker looked up with arched brows when they walked into the main room. “Find what you needed in there? Or did you have to go out and hunt it down?” “Mm, yes.” Zoe flopped down on the couch, resting her head on his thigh. “You should’ve joined us for a bite…to eat,” she said with a light laugh while gazing up at him. He gave her stomach a light tickle. “I can see you’re in a better mood.” His gaze shifted to Rider for an instant, then back to her. “I’m sure my brother enjoyed a much needed reunion.” Zoe nudged Rider with her foot. “Yeah…why were you gone so long anyway?” “Needed some breathing room.” He sat with them and took her legs onto his lap. “I don’t blame you for wanting time away after everything that happened. Paige put you through hell.” “She’s a fucking psycho. I’ll be glad when your pack deals with her. I detest her presence in our camp.” Rider brushed her cheek with one hand. “But you…you’ve always cared about me even before I belonged to you.” “You’ve always belonged to me…we just got waylaid for a time.” “She’s right,” Booker added. “I should’ve never mentioned hooking you up. Guess I fucked up big on that 17

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one.” “Hey,” Rider said. “We’ve been learning as we go. Zoe bravely took the leap to become the first female vamp in our clan and everything that followed played out as it should. We’re bound to stumble. After all, none of us have been through this before.” Zoe nodded in agreement. “One thing is certain. Your ancestors have guided our path from the spirit world. In spite of attempts by outsiders to destroy us, we’ve become stronger.” “And you’re our ray of sunshine, so much light in your eyes.” Booker petted her hair. His comment touched her. She loved the way he spoke and fawned over her yet maintained the indomitable character that made her feel safe. Reaching up with one hand, she caressed the bare skin revealed from beneath his mostly unbuttoned shirt. His bare chest felt firm and smooth. “I wouldn’t mind seeing you on stage. Are you going to take the gig?” He shot Rider a look. “Only if my former band mate does, we’ve always been a team.” “One hell of a duo, you two are,” she said. “If riding on Harleys isn’t a big enough turn-on, I can only imagine what you do to women when you’re on stage. There won’t be a dry seat in the house.” Booker gazed at her in open adoration. She knew he enjoyed the flattery and she loved the modest grin her compliments evoked. “Sounds like Zoe wants to see you strut your stuff,” Rider teased. “I guess we can take the gig as long as the traveling doesn’t become too much for our woman here. I know I sure as hell won’t mind getting away.” Zoe rolled her eyes. “Stop pampering me. I’m not going 18

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to quit riding until I’m too big to get on the bike. And I have no doubt that Erin can handle matters with the pack while we’re gone. She’s become a very tough and loyal member.” “Looks like we have some rehearsing to do,” Booker said. He sounded happy. “Will give me a chance to sing you the song I wrote.” “You wrote a new song?” Her eyes widened in surprise. “When have you had time to do that?” He gave her a wink. “While watching you sleep.” She’d forgotten how little sleep he required. Many times she’d awaken to find him staring out the window in deep thought or simply watching over her. “I can’t wait to hear it. I didn’t know you sang, too.” Rider laughed outright. “He tries.” “Ah, shut the fuck up.” Booker laughed. “Easy for you to say while hiding behind your drum kit.” Zoe observed them with interest, having never seen this side before. Their casual banter added an amusing facet to their relationship and she could easily envision them entertaining a crowd—something she’d not seen in her mates until now. Each day with them brought more joy to her heart. They’d moved into what apparently once served as a formal dining room, with china cupboards built into one wall and windows spanning the length of the opposite wall. She watched them work after they hauled their equipment from the garage into the house. Rider busied himself setting up his drums while Booker ran cables along the floor strung from small black boxes. Then he lifted his guitar from a black case and began to tune it. “You’re guitar is magnificent.” She lightly ran her fingers over the mahogany body, admiring the rich warm tone. “Wow…you were really in a rock band. You could’ve been a 19

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rock star.” “I know.” He shrugged and smiled. “I’m quite happy with what I have.” He placed one hand behind her head and pulled her close for a stimulating kiss followed by a soulsearching gaze. “I’d not change a thing.” Flutters filled her stomach and traveled through her body. His confidence is so very sexy. Her attention went to Rider who looked up with a grin while twirling two wooden sticks. He winked and beckoned her over with a nod. She eased onto his lap. “Wanna feel some rhythm, doll?” He placed the sticks in her hands and positioned them correctly, then placed his hands over hers. “Relax and let me guide you…feel the beat.” Zoe thoroughly enjoyed the sensation. She’d always loved music and had even played around with a couple instruments in her youth, but never took her passion to a higher level. Growing up as a farmhand left little time for recreation—how she loathed that life. From a hellish childhood to an abusive marriage, freedom hadn’t found her until she had summoned the courage to divorce Travis. Closing her eyes, she allowed Rider to control her hands as he moved through several different drum patterns, none of which she was familiar with. Her knowledge of percussion left much room for growth. Regardless, the experience felt exhilarating—natural—as if the rhythm had been rooted in her soul forever. “I love this,” she murmured. “You’re so cool.” Rider rested his chin on her shoulder and nuzzled her cheek. “I knew you would. I feel the rhythm in you when we make love.” “Ooo…keep it up and we’ll all be on the floor in a minute.” Her comment caught Booker’s attention. He looked over with a mischievous sparkle in his eyes. Reluctantly she slid 20

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off Rider’s lap so that they could rehearse. “Hey, sugar,” Booker caught her hand as she strolled by. “Are you going to dance for us like you did at the club that night?” Zoe felt her cheeks flush with heat. “That…was a rare treat. You tricked me into going out there.” “You were fucking hot,” Rider piped in. “Sure gave me one hell of a hard-on.” Booker laughed. “I bet everyone around her needed to get laid after that performance.” “Mm, and some of us did, if I recall.” She curled up on an upholstered armchair. “I’m going to sit quietly and let you entertain me for a change.” Booker adjusted the microphone, then gave Rider a nod. “I’ve got the melody down. Just do your thing with the drums as we go along.” “I’m with ya.” Rider twirled his sticks and settled in behind his drums, prepared to jam. Zoe rested her chin on bent knees, waiting in excited anticipation wondering what his singing voice would sound like and how she’d feel watching them play together. Booker started by pulling off a gritty little lead on his guitar, then launching straight into the lyrics. Rider instantly picked up the beat as if he’d known the song all along. She watched— utterly captivated. Booker’s eyes never left hers as he sang to her. “My rockin’ angel come from heaven above, your soul is filled with amazing love. You touch people everywhere you go, and there’s something I want you to know. My rockin’ angel, you’re so tough, my little rockin’ angel, you’ve seen enough, keep a-rolling on down the road, I know you carry one hell of a load. Rockin’ angel, rockin’ angel, oh rockin’ angel, I believe in what you do. My precious angel girl…I’m so in love with you. 21

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“Rockin’ angel, your light shines so bright, my little angel, into the darkest night. Keep the watch, girl, don’t let go, I see your tears even when you don’t let them show. Tough girl…rock against the tide, brave rockin’ angel…hunts down the enemy’s side. Angel walking down the street, angel never know who you’ll meet, angel destined to walk the walk, fierce little angel, you were born to rock. Rockin’ angel, rockin’ angel, oh rockin’ angel, I believe in what you do. My precious angel girl…my heart belongs to you. So go rock your world, sweet angel girl, you know I’ll always be right by your side. My rockin’ angel… I believe in what you do. Precious angel girl…I’m so in love with you.” Tears blurred her vision when they’d finished. Awestruck by the most incredible song she’d ever heard and he’d clearly written the piece for her. His angel. Booker set his guitar aside. “What do you think? I wrote it for you, angel eyes.” Overcome by emotion, she could barely speak. “I’m speechless.” “I’ll tweak it up a bit for the public but wanted you to hear the original version.” He set his guitar aside. She met him halfway across the room and threw her arms around his neck. “You are awesome…just when I think you can’t get any sexier you simply blow me away again.” Effortlessly he lifted her off the floor in a warm embrace. Her ankles locked behind his lower back as their lips met. She took in his scent with a deep breath while her tongue explored his mouth. Immensely turned on, she pushed his shirt away to bare those broad shoulders and well-toned arms. Her lips went to his neck when he eased out of the liplock she had on him. “I think she liked it,” he muttered to Rider. Rider laughed. “Have fun. I’ll be up later.” “You were awesome, too,” she said as Booker carried her 22

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away. She caught Rider’s wink before they left the room. “I can’t believe you wrote a song for me.” “I felt inspired.” Booker laid her on the bed. “Mm…I feel a little inspiration coming on right now.” She tugged at his shirt until it fell to the floor, then rolled on top of him, kissing her way down his glistening chest. He tasted slightly salty in a light sweat. Taking her time, she left a trail of lingering kisses over his rippling abs as her fingers worked the button-fly of his jeans. The denim gave way to her demand. **** Booker released a deep sigh of pleasure when her lips dipped lower, taking his hard length into her mouth. “Let me please you…” Zoe’s voice floated over him like a beautiful song. He sank into the mattress, acutely aware of her every touch. A downward glance brought into view her shimmering golden mane splayed across his bare thighs. The heat of her mouth closed over his sex, causing him to groan. “Ah yeah, sugar.” He filtered her silky hair through his fingers while she eagerly sucked his cock. “Mm…that feels so good, my love.” One delicate hand caressed his lower abs as the other stroked his intense erection. The swollen head slid back and forth over her tongue, driving him wild with desire. He lifted his hips to meet her mouth with each stroke until every inch of his engorged cock disappeared, and the tip of his head touched the back of her throat. Another guttural groan rose in his chest. She had him bent and aching to come. They smoothly rolled over and her nails dug into the back of his thighs, all the while she continued sucking, licking and 23

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teasing him into a heated frenzy. He supported his weight on bent arms and knees, gently thrusting against her now. She didn’t ease up. Fuck…she’s so amazing! Her ability to deep-throat blew his mind. The satiny, wet warmth of her mouth taking in the full length of him broke his restraint quickly. He sucked in a sharp breath, then moaned with a long, slow stroke between her soft lips seconds before coming in her mouth. She drank him in, clutching his ass as the spasms made him jerk forward—holding him steady until the waves of ecstasy subsided. He eased onto his back, taking her into his arms. “Ah, sugar, that was fantastic.” She gazed at him with sultry blue eyes and snuggled against him in a kittenish manner, then purred, “I love pleasing you.”

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Chapter Two sat at a table next to the stage sipping a strawberry Zoedaiquiri with her ankles crossed gracefully. Tonight she’d left her biking leathers at the hotel and donned a flirty leather mini-skirt accented by an off-the-shoulder cashmere sweater for the occasion. She’d taken a liking to the cocktails since they tasted good with or without alcohol—in her case the latter applied. Her gaze traveled around the nightclub. The words Club Heaven shimmered in a marquee above the stage. For a small gig, as Booker had put it, the setup seemed rather elaborate and the club was packed. She loved the energy of San Francisco nightlife. If this was small to him, she could only imagine the level of fame he’d experienced with his first band long ago. His band…the one Mott had underhandedly stolen right out from under him. She felt no pity or remorse over Mott’s death—he had deserved to suffer more but at least he was gone. The houselights dimmed as a spotlight hit the stage. “Hey all you rockers,” a man dressed rather flamboyantly called out from the stage. “Welcome to Heaven. We have a special treat for you tonight. Garret Welsh has reformed his band Mirror Image and brought them back for a debut performance.” Zoe almost spilled her drink. Mirror Image…what an uncanny name for a band with two vampires as key members. She 25

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couldn’t withhold a giggle. Applause, accompanied by whistles and cheers echoed throughout the club. Clearly the club’s patrons were familiar with the band. Small gig my ass, she thought. Women ranging in age from early twenties to what looked like seniors crowded onto the dance floor inches from the stage. Zoe observed in fascination. From the shadows emerged a fiveman-band. She had to catch her breath when Booker appeared directly above her. He’d chosen her table well. He does wear leather! Her mouth watered at the sight of him decked out in black leather pants that fit like a second skin, accentuating those sexy thighs and the impossible to miss bulge at his groin. A sleeveless black shirt that zipped up the front clung to his torso and naturally, he had the zipper pulled halfway down to reveal his perfect chest and just a peek at the abs. He cast a spirited wink her way moments before Rider led them into their first song. The lead singer had one hell of a voice and belted out gritty lyrics, taking the audience captive right from the start. Booker sang backup while playing lead guitar. Though she couldn’t see much of Rider except for his long hair whipping wildly as he pounded away on the drums, she imagined how hot he must look, too. A group of women looking thirtyish gathered in front of Booker. He had without a doubt upstaged the lead singer with his charisma and superior good looks. Zoe leaned back and watched. No way did she feel like competing with the frenzied females drooling over her man. He appeared to be having a great time so she kept her jealousy under control. An hour later the band took a break. Booker came to her table and took a seat beside her. “Are you enjoying the show, angel?” Zoe nodded. “You are hot up there…and you’re wearing 26

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leather.” A soft expression sparkled in his eyes. “For you.” “Uh-huh, I’m sure it has nothing to do with impressing the hoard of women blocking my view.” She laughed with a bit of sarcasm. His eyes searched hers and an easy smile traversed his face. “I can’t help their reaction. They get caught up in the energy of our music.” “I know…you’ve had this effect on women since I met you. I swear you could be wearing flannel pajamas and they’d still throw themselves at you.” “Maybe you need a reminder of what you mean to me.” He slid one hand into her hair and drew her close for a kiss, sliding his tongue between her parted lips. She sighed contentedly as his inviting scent floated over her in a sensual haze. Low lights, energy packed atmosphere combined with his hot lips on hers felt exhilarating. Her body relaxed as the kiss deepened. Falling—falling, his potent allure took her under until everything around them faded into the background and all she could hear was his steady, heavy breathing. This moment reminded her of their first kiss when nothing else mattered outside of the chemistry between them. Slowly his lips worked a tantalizing path to her neck where his teeth nipped at the delicate skin. A gasp and a soft moan followed by an inward ahhhh as he bit down and euphoria instantly claimed her. After sucking ravenously for a few minutes he eased back just far enough to gaze into her eyes. Snowed under by his charisma, she gasped for breath as he held eye contact—their lips less than an inch apart. A shudder ripped through her, an aftershock of the gripping climax he’d induced with his bite. Clutching handfuls of his hair, she pulled his mouth against hers and made a delicious exploration with her tongue. Her arousal sparked the 27

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already climbing chain reaction of sexual excitement. “Let’s go backstage.” His voice carried that intense level of desire that made her want to swoon—commanding and sweet all the same in a style unique to him. He took her hand and led her through the crowd. They discreetly slipped behind the curtains into a dark corner where lights from the stage cast an ethereal glow over the area. She stared up at him as he unzipped his fly while pinning her to the wall with his hard body. “You look amazing tonight, angel…” he purred out the words, then lifted her skirt and moved her thin lace panties aside. “Mm…so wet for your man already.” With one strong hand beneath her thigh he pulled her leg up and around his waist, then slid his rock-hard sex into hers. “Ah yeah…” he groaned long and slow. “Baby,” she whispered. “You feel incredible.” Leaning her head against the wall, she clung to him as he used drawn out easy thrusts to stimulate every inch of her throbbing sex. “I always have time to please my woman.” He bit lightly at her earlobe. “Don’t ever doubt how much you mean to me.” Their eyes met again and she felt the sensation of going under for a second time. He had an enigmatic way of dominating her that evoked an inexplicable sense of wellbeing. Penetrated by his aura in every respect—the heated gaze—an irresistible scent that drove her mad and his huge erection filling her core, she succumbed to her mate. She belonged to him first and nothing paralleled the spell he held over her. “I won’t.” She gazed into those lucid pools of blue, completely rapt in his charm. A knowing smile touched his lips seconds before they covered hers in hot bliss. He pushed his tongue to the back of her throat, simultaneously driving his cock deep between 28

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her thighs. Heat in her body mounted to unbearable levels causing her to writhe. Her fingers slid beneath his shirt raking her nails up his back and digging them into his flesh, silently begging him to douse the flames. He took a deep, ragged breath and she heard the urgent need in his soul. With one hand still at her thigh, his other supported her back while using long, calculated thrusts to release her fire. Lightly she bit down on his tongue as her body tensed. Locked together in a stronghold they merged into an intense mating. Fully engorged and stretching her sex, the slightest movement from his distended cock stimulated her into ecstasy. She gave a soft whimper, reluctant to let go when he gently severed the kiss as the spasms of climax began. “Ah, sugar,” he groaned. “I’m so hard I can barely move…give me your bite, babe.” Without delay she grabbed his long mane, pulled the loose curls to one side, then sank her teeth into his neck. Blood spurted into her mouth followed by his staggering release. Her early stages of orgasm rocketed out of control upon the warm rush of liquid surging into her sex. They slammed against the wall in a fierce embrace, panting for breath as their bodies shuddered with compelling force. “Oh my god…” Her words rode a quivering sigh. Booker jerked against her, spilling the last of his seed in a series of violent spasms. “Hell,” he murmured. “I didn’t expect this. You’re wicked tonight.” She breathed out a short, airy laugh. “Must be the energy you put out on stage.” He looked down with a charming smile and glistening eyes, keeping his voice low. “That you can lock me in a mating so quickly is mind-blowing. Your sensuality has become exceedingly powerful, my love.”

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Rider smiled knowingly when they returned to the table. “Gets a bit hot under those stage lights, huh?” Zoe leaned over and gave him a kiss before taking her seat. “A little.” “Our break is about over. Sure you have enough energy to finish out the night?” He shot Booker a teasing look. “Hell yeah.” Booker laughed. “She gave me quite a fix.” “I can see that. You’re both glowing.” “Where were you hiding, Rider?” “Don’t worry, sweet thing. I wasn’t with a groupie. Garret needed help with the lighting so I lent him a hand.” She laid a hand alongside his face where a night shadow had begun to form. “I better not catch you with anyone else. Find me when you’re in need. I have more than enough fire burning in my soul for both of you.” “That’s for sure,” Booker added with a furtive glance. “She took me by surprise.” Rider peered over the rim of his glass and she read his thoughts. A mating…here? She caught Booker’s subtle nod. Our vamp is wicked hot! “Have you forgotten that I can read your minds?” Booker gave a light laugh. “No, angel, we’re quite aware of your heightened senses. We don’t speak of intimate matters in the open where others may be eavesdropping.” “Oh. I sometimes forget that we are different.” Zoe looked toward the stage. “Is that Garret who sings lead?” “Yeah.” Rider gave Booker a nod. “Looks like it’s time to go back on.” “Stay right here where we can see you, angel.” Booker placed a tender kiss on the top of her head. “One more round and we’ll be done. I’ll introduce you to Garret before we leave.” She thanked the server for a fresh drink, then sat back to enjoy the show. Afterglow from her tour backstage lingered 30

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sweetly in her mind while watching Booker play. “You’re not supposed to be here.” A vaguely familiar voice sounded surprised, then its owner sat in the chair beside her. And that irritating smell appearedagain. Panic rose in her throat creating an uncomfortable tightness. The band had already jumped into the last song of the night and she couldn’t interrupt them or cause a scene during their first gig. She glared at Stoke through narrowed eyes, wondering how the hell he’d found her again. He’s stalking me. His hair brushed her bare shoulder as he leaned offensively close. This is going to be a long three minutes. “Where else would I be but with my man?” He inhaled deeply at her neck. “Nothing more appealing than a she-vamp just mated. I picked up the smell of your sex from outside.” “Fuck off!” Zoe pushed him away. A slow smirk fell over his face. “Not nice talk for a lady…you should be home in Crescent City with your pack. Not in a bar. I’d not bring my woman to a place like this. Never know who might be lurking.” Her eyes darted toward Booker, who clearly wanted off the stage. He stood at the edge above her, trying to look nonchalant. However, she saw the fury behind his façade and knew that when this song ended Stoke would have a new enemy. House lights dimmed as the final performance of the night neared its end. Zoe sighed in relief that any minute Booker would chase this scoundrel away. “Until next time, Zoe,” whispered Stoke, then he was gone. “What did he want?” Booker emerged from the shadows mere seconds later. “I don’t know. He’s sick.” She repeated what Stoke had said to her word for word. Booker took her hand and lifted it to his nose, then drew a 31

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deep breath at her shoulder where Stoke’s hair had touched her. “I knew it,” Booker growled. “Knew what?” Rider suddenly appeared. He’d evidently seen the man as well. “Who was that prick snaking up on her?” “Another vampire.” Zoe felt faint. “W-what?” “You made a few comments about the way he smelled after your first encounter. I didn’t want to alarm you or jump to conclusions. But this time I saw you shove him and caught him leaning into you. His stench is unmistakable.” Booker pulled a switchblade from his pocket, then made a slice across the pulse point at his wrist. “Ow…” She fought back the tears as his blood seared her hand. He wiped his bloody wrist over her bare shoulder. “His stench must be removed.” “Couldn’t I just take a shower?” She winced at the burning pain. Booker dipped a linen napkin into a nearby water glass, then gingerly wiped the blood from her blistered skin. “I’m sorry, angel. He wants to mate you so he was seeking a way to place his mark on your body. It would be easier for him to track you if you’re carrying a familiar scent. My blood will remove any trace of him.” Tears slid over her hot cheeks, then the pain began to subside as her skin quickly healed. “Why did your blood hurt me?” “Because he is from a different clan.” Sadness filled his expressive eyes. “Again, I am very sorry to cause you discomfort. I had no choice but to erase his invasion with my blood. A vampire’s sense of smell is one of their greatest tools to find prey.” 32

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“He didn’t seem to have a hard time finding me twice now and I hadn’t touched him.” “You said he sounded surprised to find you here.” “Yes…he did.” “I suspect tonight was a coincidence from what you said. This is not Black Star territory and I didn’t sense other vampires around upon arrival. He must be a renegade wandering about and pheromones from our tryst obviously alerted him to your presence.” “What about the meeting in Crescent City?” He contemplated her question while continuing to soothe her skin. “Well, no doubt he has an interest in you. Still, it doesn’t sound like he expected to find you here.” Rider brought to mind a good point. “Something doesn’t add up. If he didn’t expect to find her here, then why was he here?” “I want to go home,” Zoe said. “Aren’t you tired, angel?” “A little, but I feel very uneasy here. Please?” She looked at Booker with pleading eyes. He touched her face. “Of course, my love. We play just the one night, but I was hoping to take you around San Francisco tomorrow for some fun. Are you sure?” “Yes. You can show me the town during your next gig.” “If we leave now we’ll be back before sunup,” Rider pointed out. “All right.” Booker’s gaze moved around the club, as if searching. “I don’t see Garret. He’s probably busy with the ladies. We’ll introduce you next week.” “How did he get in touch with you anyway, when you don’t have a phone?” Zoe wondered. “He tracked me down by calling some of our mutual friends. One of them dropped a note in the box to meet him.” 33

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“Was he one of your buddies at the party that night?” “Which night, babe?” His sharp eyes still appeared watchful. “Nevermind.” Zoe sighed, recalling what he’d said about speaking openly in public. He looked at her with a slight grin. “Oh…that night. Yeah, he was there.” Rider laughed. “He was a pussy though, too afraid to drink.” “Probably for the best,” added Booker. Seemingly satisfied with his visual scan, he gave Rider a nod and they headed out the door to stop by their hotel before going home. Light rain had begun to fall. Thus far her visit to San Francisco hadn’t been very pleasant. A distinct foreboding chill crept over Zoe as they neared the main gate to their home. She immediately knew something bad had happened. Booker and Rider exchanged worried looks as they drove up the lane toward the house. From atop the hill she saw smoke billowing from several points in the lower fields. Her blood began to race as she quickly dismounted his bike. Booker caught her before she took off down the hill and held her tightly as if protecting her from something. “Wait,” he said. “You can’t go running down there alone.” “What the fuck happened?” Rider muttered as they cautiously made their way down the trail to the cabins. “Was it a wildfire?” Zoe asked, staring in shock at the smoldering remains of the Night Brigade camp. “Where are the women?” Booker tilted his face upward and drew a deep breath. “No, it wasn’t a wildfire. Can you smell it?” She knew he wanted her to begin utilizing her heightened 34

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senses, so she repeated his action. “I smell burnt wood…and kerosene.” She paused as another odor stung her nose. Tears blurred her vision. “And burnt flesh…” Her eyes darted from Booker to Rider. Suddenly her throat felt dry and her pulse quickened. She saw deep sorrow shadow their faces while staring back at her. “No…no…it can’t be.” Without warning she broke free and bolted toward the first cabin. “Erin…Erin! Are you here?” Zoe covered her mouth with a sleeve, gagging and coughing. Thick smoke caused her eyes to sting as she searched the rubble for her comrades. She stumbled from the remains into Booker’s arms. “Where are they? Where are my friends?” Her body began to tremble. “They’re gone, angel.” “No…they can’t all be gone.” She pulled away and raced to each cabin, calling out to anyone who may have survived. Her mind scrambled for answers. “Erin! Where are you?” The guys followed her closely, continually attempting to drag her from the scene. Yet she refused to be subdued. After searching the last cabin site, where very little remained, she slumped to the ground on her knees and sobbed. They knelt beside her, enveloping her with tender arms. “Baby doll,” Rider whispered in a strained voice. “I’m so sorry.” “How? I thought nothing could destroy us except the swordfish oil,” she choked out the words between sobs. “As far as we know,” Booker said. “I won’t know what happened here until we take a look around.” “My pack…my entire group of women…gone.” Tears streamed down her face as she wept uncontrollably. “What have I done to them?” “Zoe?” a faint voice called. “Is that you?” Her head sprung up. “Erin? Where are you?” 35

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Erin emerged from a patch of unharmed thicket, followed by several more women. “Zoe?” They rushed toward one another and embraced. Booker and Rider took up beside them. Erin looked dreadful. Her typically beautiful red hair hung in lank strands covered in soot. Something Zoe had never seen in those lovely amber colored eyes lingered in their depths—fear. “Are you okay?” She brushed dirt from Erin’s face. “We survived. I don’t know how many others made it out. I tried to warn everyone…but…” Erin broke down and cried. “It’s okay,” Zoe felt her eyes blur with tears again. “What happened?” A horrific expression traversed Erin’s face. “I caught their scent in the air, they came in from above. I raced from cabin to cabin screaming at everyone to get out. It was mass chaos, Zoe. They swooped in so fast shooting some kind of tranquilizer guns. The darts knocked the women down on impact. I wanted to fight, but there was no time.” She paused to catch her breath. “We ran for our lives and hid in the bushes, praying they’d not detect our scent. I think the thick smoke and madness helped disguise us. Or maybe they got what they’d come for. Either way, after torching every cabin with the unconscious women inside and ransacking the immediate area, they left.” “Do you know who they were?” Booker’s seeking voice was gentle. Erin stared at him with teary eyes. “Black Star.” Zoe gasped, covering her mouth with one hand. “Remember I crossed their path on the road last month? I’d never forget a stench like that. It was like someone dragging their nails across a chalkboard only to my nose, if that makes any sense.” “Yes…it does.” Zoe nodded. “I smelled my first rival 36

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vampire recently and the best way I can describe his scent is annoying.” “I thought we were at peace with them,” Erin said. “That’s what you told me after we took out the last of Flaming Steel.” Zoe flashed Booker a hot look. “That’s what I’ve been told.” Booker seemed undaunted, as usual. “You said they got what they came for, what do you think they wanted?” “They took Paige,” Erin replied. “I saw her riding out with one of them.” “Did it look forced or had she gone willingly?” “She jumped on the back of one dude’s bike. I don’t think she was taken against her will.” Rustling leaves drew the small group’s attention. Instantly they tensed, prepared to fight. Much to Zoe’s relief and delight, a dozen more survivors came into the clearing. She rushed over to greet them, noting they were visibly shaken. Clearly her pack had been through a hellish ordeal. “Let’s get these women up to the house,” Rider suggested. Booker nodded. “I wanna check on something first.” He wandered up to the first cabin where Paige had been held prisoner. Zoe gave her comrades an encouraging smile, then politely excused herself to follow Booker. Amidst the destruction lay the blackened chains and cuffs that had once kept their prisoner secured to her bed. Though the smell of death hung in the thick morning air, the bodies had turned to dust. Sadness filled her heart. “What’s on your mind?” she asked as they kicked through the rubble. “Something Erin said.” He moved about cautiously as if hunting for something in particular. “This.” “What is it?” 37

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“A tranquilizer dart.” He raised the charred weapon to his nose, then very carefully held it out for her to smell. She wrinkled her nose in disgust. “Fish oil?” “Yeah. They torched the cabins to cover the evidence. A very clever enemy indeed.” “How could they know?” She couldn’t help but be impressed by his astute thought process. “Oh I do believe they had some help.” He sighed in open frustration. “I thought other vampire sects don’t take in renegades. Why would they want Paige?” Booker tossed the toxic dart into a corner. “My gut feeling is that she led them here. How else would they know of our location? Do you recall the conversation we had about Paige’s affiliation with Steel and how her involvement with a southern biker group could possibly stir up trouble?” “You think she struck a deal with them…information about us in exchange for her rescue?” “Seems that way. And I’d bet that Stoke isn’t a renegade as I initially thought.” “That’s how he knew my name…and about Mott. Paige filled him in.” Zoe backed away from the debris feeling stunned. “He came here looking for me. That’s why he sounded so surprised to see me in San Francisco.” Booker pulled her into his arms. “Don’t worry, sugar. He’s not getting you. He most likely showed up at the bar the other day to scope out our activity so he could plan tonight’s ambush.” “I don’t follow you.” “If I set out to steal another man’s woman, I’d be sure I knew where his ass was before making my move. Since Stoke’s timely appearances point to a connection with Black Star, I imagine he’s quite cunning.” Booker lifted her chin with a gentle finger. “He sent his crew up here to kill your 38

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pack and take you while he kept a close eye on me and Rider.” “But they rescued Paige.” “So she thinks,” he said with a sardonic laugh. “You did tell me she’d be foolish enough to seek their support.” “Yeah, and once she is of no further use, they’ll do away with her.” Booker petted her hair, holding her close. “Her fate has been removed from your hands, my love. Paige just sealed it for you.” “I wish I knew how she managed to contact Black Star. Her treachery knows no bounds.” His eyes met hers. “You may get your answers…this war has only just begun.”

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Chapter Three

“O

kay…we got you out, time to pay up.” Stoke stood over her as she sat on the floor of his den. Even in his annoyed state she couldn’t deny the allure—the power of another head vampire. Paige swallowed hard. “I already did. I showed you where they live and gave up everything I know about them.” He squatted in front of her. “But you didn’t make a kill.” “Technically I did. Who knew Zoe had enough power to bring him back?” Her gaze drifted lower for a minute to admire the protruding bulge in his trousers. “You weren’t supposed to get caught.” His already black eyes took on an eerie hue. “We gave you specific instructions to ride in, kill one of the leaders and get the hell out in exchange for our protection.” She bowed her head. “I’m sorry. I underestimated her.” “When we approached you about your involvement with Flaming Steel, you begged me to take you into my clan. You feared the group you’d pulled together could not fend off Zoe’s and you were right.” He ran one slender finger alongside her face. “Still, I have to question the integrity of a woman who’d leave her comrades to die while she moves on with another pack. I’m surprised you didn’t tell Night Brigade about our deal.” “I’d never betray you.” Paige squirmed beneath his touch. 40

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“I was desperate when I had failed to acquire Rider’s blood and give Flaming Steel immortality. Zoe and Booker were breathing down my neck. I had to do something. I was on my way out to California to make another attempt at stealing his blood when your gang stopped me on the road.” “You’d been riding in and out of our territory quite a bit. I caught your scent and decided to check out the new vampire making moves in my area.” A slow smile spread across his face. “I didn’t expect you to throw yourself at me.” “Neither did I. But you are hot…gorgeous…and strong, so much more imposing than my previous mate.” “You need not fear Night Brigade again. We’ve delivered a critical blow to their clan. I needed to get your ass out of there before they made you start talking.” Resuming his standing position, he pulled her up to face him. “So…not only have I given you protection in my domain, but we’ve rescued you as well. What will you offer to repay my generosity?” She gazed up at him through watery eyes. Lust coursed through her body for this tall, dark immortal with eyes like a starlit night. “Anything you desire of me. I offer myself to you.” “I cannot take your blood nor can you have mine as it will weaken the line since you’ve been mated by a rival vampire.” Oh, thank heavens. Paige was greatly relieved to hear that, though she’d have eagerly complied to please this dominant male. “That shouldn’t be a problem for you. I heard that you don’t enjoy biting.” “You seem to know a lot.” “I make it a point to know everything about rival vampires moving into my territory.” She shrugged, undeterred by his knowledge. “Well, it’s 41

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true. I don’t care for the biting so you’ll have no trouble with me.” His hand drifted over her breast. “I’ve already bestowed much more than I’ve received in your case.” “I’m exceedingly grateful and will make it up to you. I will do whatever you ask of me.” “You’re willing to bind yourself to me as my love-slave?” He raised questioning brows. “Yes, I am eager to please you.” Paige knelt before him, wrapping her arms around his waist. “To stay here with you…yes.” “Get on your hands and knees and let’s see if you are able to please me.” Without hesitation she did as directed, fully aroused by his commanding manner. He slid to his knees behind her, then yanked her pants down over her hips. She glanced back to see him undo his fly and release a massive erection. A shiver of excitement trickled up her spine. “Put your head down, woman.” He braced one hand on her back moments before driving himself between her legs. Lowering her upper body to the floor, she clutched the fibers of the rug beneath them as he drove into her with his huge cock. She welcomed each thrust, spreading her legs wider for ultimate penetration. She wondered if this was how Booker gave it to Zoe and thought it an odd thing to consider at the moment. Rider had been a very sweet lover, but never domineering with her. Maybe he gives it to Zoe like this. Well, now I’m getting it. She smiled, feeling triumphant over her one time leader. “You are a horny little wench,” he growled, fucking her so hard she quickly began to come. “And you’re one hell of a stud,” she murmured. “Don’t speak unless I tell you to.” He gave her hair a light tug. “Never talk while I’m mating, understood?” 42

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She nodded, then gasped as her body erupted into a forceful climax. He grunted while pumping urgently— almost as if he needed to release pent up frustration. Paige basked in the haze as the scent of sex rose around her. This captivating male vampire had chosen her as his lover and though his method seemed a bit kinky, she enjoyed every moment. He possessed staggering potency and took her to the heights of orgasm multiple times before nearing his own release. His breathing became erratic shortly before he pulled out, stood up and eased her around on her knees to face him while starting to come. “Is this what you want?” He pressed the pulsing head to her lips. Strangely enthralled, she licked her lips. “Yes, oh yes, I’ve wanted you since the day we met.” “I can come for a long time, are you sure?” he teased by drawing back just a bit. She clutched his backside and practically growled, “Give it to me. I want whatever you have to offer.” With his hands tangled in her hair, he slowly pulled her face toward his groin until the entire length of his sex slid into her mouth. Hungry for his cock, she greedily took him in. “That’s it,” he groaned in obvious pleasure. “Good…good.” He held her steady, but didn’t thrust. “Yeah, just like that. Keep it coming.” Paige found herself getting off on the experience as his head throbbed in her mouth. A stream of warm liquid trickled down her inner thighs. Both arms remained curled around his legs as she drank his release. Even in a lessened state, the head of his cock still touched the back of her throat. She’d take this any day over drinking blood. Pleasing this indomitable male was something that aroused her to the point where she began fingering herself with one hand. 43

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“Mm, you like that, huh? Getting turned on again?” She nodded. “That’s fine. You can go on stroking yourself and sucking me while I watch.” A soft whimper escaped her. Titillated into a state of frenzy she intensified her efforts until her aching clit surrendered to her touch and his cock jerked. And as if her act of self-indulgence pleased him, he offered a feral growl of approval and expelled one last spurt of heat down her throat. “You’ll be a fine female to slake my lust,” he said upon pulling out, then helped her up. “Once your debt to me is satisfied I may consider coming inside your tight little pussy. But for now you have not earned the right to have my seed touch your womb.” She gazed up at him in wonder as he laid her on the red satin sheets of his bed. “I will earn that right.” “We’ll see.” He smiled, flashing a row of even white teeth. “Stay here and sleep. I have matters to attend. You will be called for meals.” With a compliant nod, she watched him zip his pants, then saunter from the room. Oh, Zoe, I bet you’ve never had it like that! **** “What will we do about the cabins?” Zoe asked after everyone had settled in for the day. Early morning light tried forcing its way around the drawn shades, casting shadows on the walls. Booker and Rider dropped onto the sofa with distressed expressions, clearly saddened by the loss of over half the clan. “We should have a service of some sort before letting the excavation crew come in,” Rider suggested. “What’s left of 44

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your pack can have this house. There’s more than enough room in this big old place.” Zoe wiped a stray tear from her cheek. “Where will we live?” “Around,” Booker said. “C’mere.” He pulled her onto his lap. Snuggled against his chest, she breathed in his scent and yielded to the tears over lost comrades. “Your soldiers were awesome.” Rider reached over and stroked her hair. “What would be the best way to honor them?” “By killing those who rode into our camp and slaughtered them,” she replied. “Looks like Paige found a way to strike again—there will be no mercy for her this time. How big is Black Star?” “Probably about a hundred strong.” Booker guessed. “Give or take a few.” “So that’s what, five to one? We still have twenty soldiers left and us.” “We have no idea what their weakness is,” Rider reminded her. “We can’t pit twenty soldiers against a hundred without more information. We know very little about their vampire sect.” They sat in silence. Zoe refused to give in this easily, believing there must be a way to defeat Black Star and put an end to Paige’s madness. A short while later she sat straight up on Booker’s lap ready to present an idea that’d popped into her head. “I’ve got it…” “Something tells me we aren’t going to like this,” Rider said with a short laugh. “We’ll give Stoke what he wants.” Booker gave her a stern look. “No…no fucking way are you going in there.” 45

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“Why? He’s not going to hurt me.” “I said no!” “And I said yes.” She gritted her teeth. “The best way to kill a shark is by hitting its soft underbelly. I have enough power to seduce his weakness straight from his filthy mouth.” He slid out from under her and walked away. Zoe glanced at Rider who shrugged contemplatively. “I can’t blame him, doll.” “Rider, you’re supposed to be on my side,” she snapped before going after Booker. She found him in the kitchen staring out the window. “Hey.” “I said no.” He didn’t look at her. She wriggled between him and the windowsill. “Let’s use Mott’s trick. Make them think they’ve abducted me and once I’m in I can do my thing. Nobody in there is going to hurt me if I am slated to be Stoke’s queen.” Taking her face between his hands, he stared straight into her soul, making her shiver. “Have you an idea how many things can go wrong with a foolhardy plan such as this?” “Yeah…I think I do.” She brought her arms up to smack his hands away. “And how do you feel about an entire enemy clan walking around with loaded tranquilizer guns?” After taking a couple steps, she whipped around to face him. “I’d rather do something than sit around waiting for their next attack.” “You dare challenge me, woman?” His eyes flashed with mixed emotion. “You underestimate his power. How do you feel about a painful blood-bath after his scent is all over you?” Zoe glared with furrowed brows and tight lips. “I’ve been through worse.” They stared at each other locked in a heated gaze—a challenge of wills. 46

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“I can’t agree to this.” He stormed out of the kitchen. She marched after him. “What’s wrong? Is your ego so big that you cannot handle another man’s scent on me if only to save our lives and those of our clan?” He froze. She drew a quick breath. They’d never been this rebellious since becoming mates and his stiff demeanor was suddently frightening. She’d openly challenged him—and in front of Rider yet. From her side vision she caught Rider’s shocked expression. “I’m a soldier, dammit. I trained Night Brigade and fought my way through life.” Booker spun around. “And I saved your life when you got in over your head.” “I’d not have been in over my head if you hadn’t fucking kidnapped me!” “Mott would’ve come after your pack with or without my help. If I hadn’t done it someone else would’ve and where would you be now?” His words rang true. Damn him. He always won. Still, this time was different. They needed to take a proactive stand. She had to convince Booker to trust her. This was where he differed vastly from his brother. Rider had a more passive side to him while Booker could be stubborn as hell. “We must uncover their vulnerability to stand a chance…please.” His eyes searched hers and for a moment she thought he might relent, but then that ferocity returned—the very thing that had made him irresistible on a dark September night. “No,” he stated. “That’s my final word.” She stalked back into the kitchen and plopped into a chair beside the window. Puffs of smoke could still be seen floating upward from the smoldering piles of ash. Tears filled her eyes. Her gaze went to the backpack near the door, the one already packed that she’d dropped on the porch upon their return from San Francisco. Booker and Rider’s 47

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voices drifted into the foyer from the living room. They were discussing ways to take down Black Star and the pack had retired to the upstairs. Using her new vampire abilities, she quietly crept to the foyer, retrieved her backpack, then snuck out the kitchen window without making a sound. Her silvery-blue Softail sat waiting in the back. Late morning sunlight glinted off the chrome. After securing her bag to the rear bar, she pushed her bike down the path and throttled the engine at the gate. The rain had stopped for the time after falling all night. She kicked her Harley into gear and sped off down the road— destination—south. **** “You two sure can go at each other,” Rider commented. “Is that how it was when you first met? Was she that feisty?” “That? That was nothing compared to the fight I had on my hands the night we caught her. Shit, she about destroyed the entire cabin at our first stop before I got her tied to a chair. Nobody told me she could fight, guess she hid it well.” “Yeah, I remember what she did to Hannah—the woman was supposed to be their toughest soldier. Maybe Zoe can handle her own with Black Star. It’s not like we won’t be there to keep an eye on her.” Booker rolled his eyes, but grinned nonetheless. “You’re way too soft on her, man.” “At times…but I’m plenty hard when it counts.” “Bragging are we?” Booker half-smiled. “Maybe you should go in and work things out. The poor girl just lost most of her comrades. Don’t be so harsh.” “You definitely took after Mom.” Rider grinned. “One of us needs a cool temper. I didn’t 48

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see either of you backing down.” Booker conceded with a nod and strolled into the kitchen. When he didn’t see her sitting there he immediately peered out the window. “Fucking hell…that woman.” Rider came running into the room. “Go easy on her, huh?” Booker snatched his jacket off a chair. “She took off!” “Fuck…” Rider glanced at the foyer. “She took her backpack so I don’t think it’s a joy ride. Zoe means business.” “See if the others are okay to ride,” Booker shook his head in dismay. “I’ll try and catch her. See you on the road, right?” “Yeah…watch your back.” Rider clasped forearms with him. With that Booker raced out the door and mounted his waiting bike. Minutes later he was flying down the highway at breakneck speed. **** After breaking at a cheap motel for some sleep and a reprieve from the harsh light of day, Zoe rode out at dusk and continued riding south straight down the coast. She figured eventually someone from Black Star would detect her presence and alert Stoke. Southern California was only a twelve-hour drive from Crescent City so she decided on LA. She’d always wanted to visit the city and now seemed good a time as any. No doubt Booker had discovered her gone by now and had set out to stop her. Temperatures grew warmer the farther south she went so the heavy leather jacket went into her backpack leaving her dressed in a black tank top and leather pants—her typical 49

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riding outfit, what she’d had on since leaving San Francisco. Morning chaos had left little time to change. Fortunately clear skies had dominated the weather today, making her ride down the coast almost enjoyable—tainted only by the challenge that lie ahead and the sorrow she’d left behind. Viewing a stunning sunset on the west coast never grew old especially while flying down an open interstate feeling free and untamed. She didn’t have a solid plan on how to gain access to Black Star’s Achilles heel, but knew in her heart that something would come to her. She trusted the spirits that guided her and silently called out for their help. I will put a stop to this madness and avenge the death of my sisters. Even with the exhilarating sensation of the wind whipping her hair and the growl of the engine eating up the road, sadness lingered. Doubt over her leadership skills sought to overtake her—creating a mental battle. Though her vigilante pack had taken the plunge into Booker’s shadowy world of vampirism, they’d continued their good works. Night Brigade’s vision had not suffered in the slightest by their alteration, despite erroneous claims from Paige and Hannah. Becoming vampires had made them stronger and given her comrades an advantage over the enemy—men who preyed on weak women or anyone who sought to harm children or animals. Since leading them in this fresh direction, Zoe had seen her group exercising their heightened abilities to assist victims in need. They had just barely settled into their new home, yet the Night Brigade Angels had begun patrolling the night. Riding into major cities at dusk had become their way of life and anyone caught in criminal acts faced punishment by one of Zoe’s soldiers. God help anyone caught abusing the innocent. She smiled 50

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with satisfaction. The severity of the bite depended on the level of crime committed and ranged anywhere from a stern warning to a person’s demise. A warning bite caused pain and did no more than make the accountable one ill. Only the extremely guilty—those that showed no remorse or hope of reform— received a lethal bite. No…Paige is wrong and so was Hannah. My vision for Night Brigade is still in full force. Mott would’ve destroyed us and we’d be nowhere had I not joined Booker. I made the right decision leading them into immortality. We were bound to encounter enemies eventually because of what we do and Booker’s blood has given us the strength to prevail. I never sugar coated their purpose. I was always up front about the risks to anyone seeking to join our ranks. Now their clan had dwindled from over fifty to about twenty. This was a critical blow. Still, she’d not give up. I believe in what I do. We will rebound. Thoughts of her argument with Booker edged their way into her mind. She felt bad for sneaking out, but he’d left her no choice. His over protectiveness could make her weak and she refused to allow that to happen. He loved her when she’d fought at his side. He’d have to continue loving her and not expect her to change simply because she carried his child—or Rider’s. They’d not know until the child was born as both men had mated her in the first month. Either way she’d be happy. She loved them equally. Though Booker had found her first, Rider hadn’t been far behind. Obviously. She laughed to herself. Or I’d know who fathered my child. Nightlife was in full swing when she rolled into LA. Taking a long, deep breath, she practiced sorting the various scents in the air. The aroma of food hit her first, a stark reminder of how long it had been since she’d last eaten. 51

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Cruising down a boulevard the late night eateries called to her. Pulling into the lot of a burger shop, she glanced at her cell phone and saw the time had just dipped past three in the morning. No doubt some of Black Star’s clan had to be out on such a nice evening looking for fun. Her arrival triggered some attention from the locals. Not many blonde women on Harleys in South LA this time of night, she mused. She sauntered into the fast food joint and placed her order. “Hey, baby, looking for a good time?” an attractive darkskinned man with braided black hair asked. “Just stopped in to eat,” she replied in a flat tone. “Nice bike.” He offered her a pleasant, but more of a Iwanna-jump-your-ass smile. She held back a laugh. He didn’t look a day over twentyfive. She wanted to offer him a bib. “Thanks, I like it.” With double cheeseburger, curly fries and cherry pie in hand, she walked outside to her bike. And of course, the young man followed. “You ain’t from around here, are ya?” “Nope,” she muttered with a mouthful of food. Nobody was going to dissuade her appetite. “I can show ya ‘round. Lots of exciting things goin’ on down here at night. Whaddya say, pretty lady?” More young fellows, his friends she assumed, had formed a circle around her while openly admiring her sweet bike. Nevertheless, she kept eating. The burger tasted good and she hated cold fries. They began checking her out with a bit more interest than preferred, but she had no fear. These young pups had no idea of what she could do if provoked. She hadn’t earned her rank as leader in vain. She furrowed her brows at him. “I’m trying to eat here, do you mind?” “How does a hot mama like you put away so much food 52

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and keep that foxy body?” Ignoring his question, she munched down the cherry pie, then grabbed a bottled water from her saddlebag. Her gaze moved around the gathering while chugging some water. “You’re done eating now,” he persisted. “How about a ride?” “Sorry…” She wanted to laugh, but chose not to insult him. “I ride alone.” He seemed about ready to launch a protest when another man pushed into the loop. “Actually, she rides with me,” he said in a voice so commanding, so sexy, that chills raced up her arms. Her head shot up, their eyes met and her adrenaline spiked. She wanted to throw herself into his arms and kiss him wildly—he looked that good in his black leather jacket and faded jeans with the metal grommets trailing down his long legs along the outer seam. However, she withheld her affection. “Have you come here to stop me?” The others stood back as if waiting for his answer. “Do you mind?” His gaze traveled around the group. “This is a private matter.” With a wave of his hand, they disbursed. “I’ve been on the road for over twelve hours tracking your fine ass, woman.” Booker stared at her with a sideward look and slightly narrowed eyes. “Have you any idea how worried I’ve been?” “You failed to answer my question.” She had every intention of bolting if he’d come to stop her despite the burning desire to welcome him. Flinging his arms up and whipping around in a tight circle, he muttered some profanities under his breath before coming face-to-face with her again. “You are, without a doubt, the most obstinate female I’ve ever known.” “Well?” 53

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“When I headed out, yeah, I planned to stop you.” He sighed and there was that relenting smile she loved so much when she infuriated and thrilled him at the same time. “Your mind is wide open when you’re riding. I felt your confliction and no…I’m not here to stop you…I’ve come to help. You’ll look overly suspicious down here alone and Stoke won’t bite. But you should know that I am not happy about this.” Zoe left her bike and slid into his embrace. “Thank you.” “Be careful.” He kissed the top of her head while lovingly stroking her hair. “Rider and the others are on their way. We’ll think of something while waiting for Black Star to take the bait.” “You look worn. Want to get a room for the day?” She ran one hand beneath the open area of his partially unbuttoned shirt. “Sunrise will come before we know it.” Booker nodded. “Didn’t much care for riding in broad daylight. You’re not the easiest woman to find.” “I’m sorry. I pulled over to sleep to avoid those harsh afternoon rays.” “Not to worry, angel.” His lips touched hers several times in a sweet, lingering kiss. “Let’s find a hotel, hm?” She smiled up at him. “Lead the way.”

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Chapter Four

“I

can’t believe the weather down here.” She tossed her travel bag onto a chair. “Seventy degrees in November…I love it.” Booker’s gaze followed her from his position on the double bed. “You’re starting to become a drifter like us.” “Yeah…” Zoe laughed. “But soon I’ll be tied down.” “I did a lot of thinking while on the road today.” She moved to the bed and crawled in between his outstretched legs. With an appreciative sigh, her gaze wandered down his hard body. “About?” “Us…the kid…your group.” He repeatedly flicked the wheel of his Zippo, watching the flame go up and down while speaking. “Our new house is no longer suitable for us with the new occupants. I am more than happy to give them the house after we sell off most of the land. Your comrades deserve a place of their own where they can remain united.” “Where will we go?” “Anywhere you like. Honestly, babe, I’d enjoy having you to myself for a while. I understand the bond you share with your sisters, but when we met you had your own place.” Sitting on her knees, she tilted her head in contemplation. “I guess our lives have become tangled. Erin is a great leader, but she’s a bit too…” “Attached?” He arched one brow. She nodded. “I caught her spying on us at the beach, but 55

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never said anything.” “I knew she was there,” he said with a wry grin. “I let her watch since she’d dragged Paige along.” “You’re bad.” She playfully swatted his leg. “Why didn’t you say anything?” “Why didn’t you?” He continually challenged her, making her love him all the more. “I didn’t want to anger you.” With a soft smile, he pulled her closer. “Like you did this morning?” A light laugh escaped her. “Oh…yes, like that.” “Your pack has settled in nicely. They know their way around and have resumed their duties. We can cover the tax and insurance on the house so all they’d have to pay is utilities and living expense. I think twenty women can handle that, don’t you?” “They better or I’d be ashamed to call them sisters. Your generosity and kindness toward my group is overwhelming.” She leaned forward, touching her lips to his. “Erin has proven to be smart, loyal and resourceful. I will leave her in charge.” “How do you feel about moving?” His voice sounded calm—seeking. “I’d like some space. Though we’ve always been a tightknit group, the leaders usually kept their own residence to avoid situations such as these. We didn’t want new, excitable members becoming infatuated with us like Erin has.” She laid her head on his bare chest. “I suppose the time has come to move on. Besides, I don’t think I can handle sharing a house with that many females for very long. They’ll all be drooling over my mates in no time.” “Another good reason for us to seek our own place.” Wrapping strong arms around her, he rested his cheek 56

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against her hair. “If we hang out here they won’t be so far away…just far enough.” “What about all that territory stuff?” “Black Star crossed the line. I have no respect for a clan that attacks without provocation. We will go wherever we choose and stay as long as we want.” “Sounds good to me.” She snuggled into him with a yawn. “I’m so glad you’re here. I wanted to jump you the moment you arrived. You look so hot in your riding clothes.” “Mm, I like the thought of that,” he said with a light laugh. “But you seem in need of some rest. Looks like I’m not the only one a bit worn from the grueling road trip. Closing her eyes, she drew a deep breath taking in his enchanting scent. “Mm…maybe not.” “Zoe Bella, awake,” a distant voice called. She burrowed into the curve of Booker’s shoulder and ignored the interruption in her sleep. “Zoe, I have something very important to share, please rise, my child.” Intense shivering forced her awake. Thinking the hotel staff had cranked up the air conditioning she sat up to reach for the blanket near the foot of the bed. Unexpectedly a hazy apparition manifested itself in the corner of the room near a window. Scooting back in sudden fear away from the one thing that caused her fear—ghosts—she rubbed sleep from her eyes and strained to focus on the wraith. Gradually a woman came into view. Lustrous black spirals fell far past her milky-white shoulders and she stared at Zoe with striking blue eyes—eyes like Booker’s. I know this woman. Other than those distinct features the woman appeared as a foggy shape. A quick glance at Booker indicated he was still peacefully asleep. Odd, she thought, that he’d sleep through this. 57

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“Yes, child, I have come to you again,” the woman said. “You have proven to be the perfect match for my sons. Your instinct to take Rider’s blood at the ideal moment saved his life. Do you recall what I revealed to you about the swordfish oil?” Zoe nodded feeling caught in a bizarre dream. “A woman’s blood gives the men of our clan strength against the toxic oil.” “Had you not sealed the circle of our blood before the attack on my son, he’d have perished immediately without hope of survival…unlike your sisters who did not stand a chance.” Her eyes became sad and Zoe felt her compassion. “Now that you and your mates have fed on each other many times, your combined blood is most powerful. The swordfish no longer poses a threat to you, my sons…” She paused with a lovely smile. “Or their offspring.” “Booker and Rider are safe?” Her heart leapt for joy. “And my child cannot be harmed?” “As long as you allow them to feed your mates will remain strong. Also, your children will be born with natural immunity. I am honored to call you my daughter and proud that you are queen of our clan. Our lineage will live on through you, child.” “Thank you.” Zoe lowered her gaze in respect. “I offer you this secret knowledge to be shared only with your life mates.” Zoe looked up with gratitude. “I understand.” “Use it to wipe out those who seek to destroy your clan.” Her eyes sparkled with amazing light. “One more thing…ask Rider for the amulet…he will know of which I speak. You have earned the right to wear the symbol of our blood. Never take it off.” She moved toward Zoe as a floating mist. Backed tight against the headboard, Zoe had nowhere to go and doubted 58

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she’d be able to move anyway while rapt in this remarkable encounter. Indescribable cold settled over her when the apparition enveloped her body. Closing her eyes, Zoe felt the slightest touch on her forehead—almost like a very light kiss—frost formed on her lips and eyelashes. “Be well, daughter.” Her melodic voice floated around Zoe bringing a moment of perfect peace. Then she was gone. Zoe sat motionless, utterly spellbound by the experience. She played it over and over in her head, committing to memory each word spoken. Eventually the air grew warmer and she nestled beside Booker, pulling the blanket over them. He’d never stirred during the entire ordeal. Uncanny. As if his mother had cast him into a deep sleep to appear solely to her. I rarely see him sleeping so soundly. The revelation of this new information astounded her—she now had the edge needed to infiltrate Black Star and find a way to uncover their weakness. Light tapping on the door woke Zoe again. She glanced toward the window and breathed easy—no more ghosts. Shadows skittered along the floor from sun peeking in beneath the blinds. Glancing at a clock on the table she noted the time was just past noon. So with the exception of the ghostly interruption she’d been sleeping quite a while. Though the visitation had been pleasant except for the cold, encounters with the spirit world left an eerie aura in their wake along with the realization that much more existed beyond what she could see. The tapping continued so Zoe padded to the door, wondering how Booker had slept undisturbed. She rarely caught him sleeping so concluded that this must be one of those times when he made up for lost rest. She’d certainly given him enough stress lately. “Rider,” she greeted him with an excited whisper, then threw her arms around his neck. “You found us.” After a 59

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glance down the corridor, she pulled him inside and locked the door. “I have something to tell you.” Taking a quick look at Booker, she added, “Both of you.” “Is everything cool between you two now?” “Yeah.” “Good because I’m starved and not for food.” He stared at her with a smoldering gaze that stole her breath. That he looked hotter than ever in his riding leathers only added to the heat. Unable to look away she took a deep breath, thrilled by the dominant air around him. “You need to feed?” With barely a nod he murmured in a deeply sensual voice, “And not just on your blood.” They fell against one another in a passionate embrace. His mouth found hers and she welcomed the taste of his tongue. Kissing fervently, they slid to the floor tearing frantically at each other’s clothes. He wasted no time, his urgent need surfaced quickly and she gathered he’d had a long trip down to LA. “Oh, baby,” she muttered as his lips began working their way down her body. Pausing at her breasts to lovingly suck each tingling nipple, he released a ragged sigh, taking his time to tease her until an ache welled up between her thighs. She moaned and took hold of his hair. “Ah yeah, doll, gimmie your sweet, sweet honey,” he purred moving lower. The silkiness of his hair trailed over her midriff and the heat of his mouth wisped her thighs seconds before blissful warmth melted over the flesh of her sex. Ohhhh, he is so good. Her thighs fell open wantonly as he hungrily lapped and tantalized every inch of her throbbing pussy. She laid spread on the floor beneath him, completely submissive to his desire. His hunger had become her 60

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addiction. No longer did she feel a chill in the air as they’d heated up the room. His head bobbed again and again as he fed on one release after another. She lost track of how many orgasms he’d induced as everything around her blurred into a red haze. All she knew at this moment was that she could lie like this forever enjoying the delectable warmth of his tongue stroking her engorged sex. “Mm, baby doll,” he slithered up her body in seductive fashion. “It’s been awhile since I tasted your sweet essence.” His tongue swept along his lips. “You taste so good.” She gazed up at him through glassy eyes, then moaned as his swollen cock pushed into the still wet folds. He was on fire—unbelievably hard and huge—thrilling her with his arousal. Barely a breath had been taken before he lowered his head to her neck and the sting of his bite made her gasp. Instantly she climaxed again, only this time with more force as the sucking at her neck mingling with his fine erection thrusting into her sex took her under. “Ohhh…fuck…” A wild shudder ripped through her, taking her hostage by this sweet-hot male. The tightening in her core increased at a staggering rate and she realized he’d entered a mating with her. Impulsive—wild—unpredictable, he did not pale in comparison if one were to be made. Ravenously he drank at the puncture in her neck, taking his fill of her empowering blood. She followed her instincts and gave him free reign over her body. “I love you, baby,” she murmured while stroking his hair. A light groan rose in his chest as he fell into steady rhythm, fucking her while tugging with his mouth. His cock swelled inside locking them into mating, and creating backto-back orgasms for both. He released his bite, then lifted his head far enough so that their eyes met. This was his first 61

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private mating with her, as was Booker’s during their unexpected tryst backstage. Previous mating had always involved the three of them. She wondered if she appeared as blown away as he did by the passion-glazed look on his sensually handsome face. Their bodies trembled against one another. “Sweet thing,” he barely whispered. “You have no idea how much I love you.” His expression shifted into one of extreme heat with a red hue shining in those shadowy eyes. “I’m aching for your bite…god how I need it.” Saliva flooded her mouth at his desperate plea. He turned his head to the side and she pulled him down. “When did you get into town?” Booker leaned over the bed, staring down at the two of them entwined on the floor. Zoe looked up, her eyes felt heavy. “What happened?” “Damn, babe that was one hell of a bite you laid on me.” Rider gently untangled them and sat up. “I rode in about an hour ago, came straight here.” “I see.” Booker grinned, then swung his legs over the side of the bed. “I must’ve been out cold to miss all the action.” A soft smile swept over Rider’s face. “No problem. We all got what we needed.” “I have something incredible to tell you guys.” Zoe fumbled around for her clothes. “Your mother came to me again…but not in a dream. She woke me and stood right over there.” She pointed to the corner while pulling on a shirt and lace panties. Rider donned his leather pants and nothing else. They sat on the bedside giving her their undivided attention as she relayed in detail, her encounter with the family ghost. Both seemed awestruck by her account, yet she could tell they believed every word. When finished, Zoe gave Rider a quizzical look. 62

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“She told me to ask you for the amulet?” Zoe fussed with a stray hair and shifted her weight, feeling awkward over asking for a family heirloom. “She said I have earned the right to wear the symbol of our blood.” Booker and Rider exchanged wary looks. “Are you sure those were her words, angel?” Booker seemed more concerned than doubtful. “Yes…I wouldn’t make it up. How could I?” “Ah no, my love, I would never insinuate such an insult.” He took her hand in his. “He’s just worried, doll,” Rider added. “According to Mom’s journal, the neckpiece would kill anyone not permitted to carry it.” Zoe retraced her thoughts making sure she hadn’t misunderstood. “After telling me to ask you, she came toward me and hovered…curiously…around me in a peculiar ice-cold mist. I felt afraid at first, then something softly touched my forehead before she bid me farewell. A fleeting sensation of perfect peace washed over me.” Rider stood, then gently pushed her mussed hair back. He motioned Booker closer with a nod. “She bears the mark.” With a feather-touch, he brushed his finger over her forehead, sending a delightful shiver up her arms. “It’s very faint, but can you see the dagger cutting through a circle?” Booker simply shook his head. “Wow…my angel…chosen to wear the talisman of our clan.” “Can’t believe I missed it when she opened the door.” Zoe laughed in amusement. “I’d be surprised if you’d have noticed me wearing a basket of fruit on my head.” She gave Rider a lighthearted nudge. “You jumped me as soon as the door closed.” Her comment drew raised brows from Booker. A puckish grin brightened Rider’s face. “It was a long ride 63

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down and you’re all I could think about. I was so fucking hard by the time I got here I could hardly walk.” “Mm, yes…I remember that,” she said with a reminiscent sigh. “But I don’t recall much after I bit you.” He grabbed her waist and playfully tossed her onto the bed, then pounced lightly, balancing over her on hands and knees. “You were so high…hell, we both were…you drifted off in my arms without another word. I’ve never felt your bite like that.” His voice sounded as sexy as he looked —perched over her, bared to the waist and still barefooted. She was only partially clothed herself. “Sounds like I missed one hell of a show.” Booker edged his way in beside her, staring with those half-closed bedroom eyes and a killer smile. “You have way too many clothes on,” she teased, flashing Booker her best seductive look. She lifted her top over her head and grinned at their pleased expressions. Then her hands floated up Rider’s hard, lightly haired chest. “And you needn’t have put these back on.” She unzipped his fly. “Because this vamp is still hungry.” “Shit…” Rider groaned as his cock sprang free and she began to stroke. He wriggled out of his pants. “Make some room. I don’t have any clothes on now.” Booker stood naked beside the bed, his massive cock fully erect and wickedly inviting. Zoe reached over with her other hand to stroke him at the same time. “C’mere, my bad boys, give me what I crave.” She guided them into position on the bed to kneel on either side of her head. “Mm, you’re both so hard and long and…hot…mm.” She moaned while taking Booker’s length into her mouth first. He released a slow sigh and petted her hair with deep affection. “Fuck yeah…” 64

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After sucking his delicious cock for several minutes, she turned her face toward Rider’s while continuing to pump Booker’s with one hand. “Mm…” His velvety head slid over her tongue repeatedly as she drew him in. Both studs began to fuss. Their heavy breathing filled her ears while she alternated taking their sex, heavy and thick with arousal to the back of her throat, keeping a hand moving on each one in the meantime. They stroked her hair, caressed her breasts and fingered her clit all the while. Tantalizing her mates into ecstasy as they knelt over her felt empowering—she drank it in. Such generous men deserved everything she had to give. Sensing Booker about to come, she eagerly sucked his throbbing head until he jerked forward and a rush of liquid warmed her throat. “Ah hell,” Rider drew a ragged breath. “Watching her…so fucking hot…damn.” “Yeah…hell yeah,” Booker groaned. His body shook with release. “I can’t hold back.” Rider’s cock began to twitch so she eased from Booker’s to please her other man. Having never had two mates, she acted purely from instinct and her carnal desire to taste both at the same time or as closely as possible. Booker remained hard in her hand, his seed dripping down her wrist as her lips closed around Rider’s engorged erection. He was more than ready. Overly excited he thrust into her mouth with one long drive. She took it with ease. Thrilled that she had such a profound effect on this powerful male, she silently coaxed him to slide that awesome cock deep into her mouth again. “Zoe…it’ll be too much, babe,” he whispered and made an attempt to pull out. “You just took Booker’s spill…I’m too turned on, sweet thing.” His consideration touched her on a new level. So very sweet to please me as he did and still hold back. She sighed— 65

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blissfully in love with these two immortals. I’m gifted, remember? She willed her thoughts to his, then held him steady while intensifying her efforts. He groaned and clutched her hair seconds before exploding in her mouth. She felt him shudder with force as he came hard. “Enjoy the ride, man,” Booker said soft and low. “I’ll give her one.” He gently removed her hand from his still erect sex and lowered his head between her legs. She gasped as his tongue pushed inside after tearing her panties off. “This is unreal.” Rider murmured. With Booker gorging on her aching sex and Rider still coming in her mouth, she glanced up to see euphoria painted on Rider’s face. She read his mind. He’d never had it so good. Seconds later spasms gripped her and that wonderful warm sensation flooded her core. “I do believe our queen is ready for a double mating,” Booker said with a groan of open desire. “She tastes oh-sofine and is dripping wet.” “Ah yeah.” Rider eased from her mouth, his emission continued to spurt. “I’m over the edge.” They stretched out beside her. Long, lean muscular bodies—surrounded by all that masculine brawn felt nothing less than intoxicating. Showered with sensual kisses and tender touches, she basked in their male prowess. After positioning her on one side, with Booker to her back this time and Rider to the front, two amazingly still hard cocks slid into her drenched sex at the same time. “Angel, you are amazing.” Booker nipped at her ear from behind. “To please us as you did was such an unselfish thing to do. I love you, girl.” “I wanted to do it. I loved watching my men come.” “Mm, baby, likewise,” Rider purred, his lips close to hers. “And we love pleasuring you. How do you like feeling both 66

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cocks in your sweet pussy right now?” She stared into his hot gaze, barely able to speak. “Awesome.” Booker tenderly moved her hair aside. “You do realize that when you get aggressive with us, it triggers our need to mate you.” Zoe nodded, gasping as she began to come. Just the feel of them swelling inside triggered her initial stages of climax. “And you know…” Rider added in a sensual tone that intensified her excitement. “We can keep you coming for hours on end.” “Yessss…oh fuck…yessss.” Pinned between them she couldn’t look away. Watching Rider’s expression as he observed her climax simply swept her away. They merged into a vampire mating where all three shared continual orgasms and their hot release bathed her in ecstasy. Soaring high, floating above the clouds as they made love to her— nothing had ever felt so right.

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Chapter Five

R

ider finished dressing, then reached for the door. “I’ll be right back. My other jacket is at my bike and I need to get the amulet.” “How are you feeling?” Booker sought as they tracked down their clothes that had been strewn about. “Wonderful, why do you ask?” He smiled in that warm easy manner of his. “Just checking. We have quite a task ahead. Don’t under estimate our enemy. Even though we now know that their toxic darts are useless against us, they can still use your sisters as blackmail.” “I know. I haven’t forgotten what I’ve learned from you and Rider. I’ll keep a low profile and will not put my comrades in harm’s way.” Rider returned wearing a different riding jacket. He looked hotter than ever decked out in fringed black leather accented by silver hardware. Her attention drifted to the shiny gold piece in his hand. “This has been closely guarded for decades, maybe longer.” He held up a small circular gold medallion about the size of a quarter and attached to a gold rope chain. “And now it belongs to you.” Booker lifted her hair as Rider fastened the chain at the nape of her neck. She shivered when their lips grazed her neck, nuzzling her with open adoration. Lifting the charm, 68

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she caressed the design with one finger and could feel the energy within. A dagger penetrating a circle had been cut into the layered gold piece creating an almost three dimensional appearance. “It’s beautiful.” She clasped her hand around it, then gazed into the mirror. Rider reached from behind to straighten it just above her breasts. “Looks great with your cleavage, too.” He gave her a sexy wink. “You’re such a rogue.” Her fingers traced the symbol while she stared in fascination at the guarded heirloom passed down through the ages and by some quirky twist of fate been bestowed upon her. “Never did I imagine while tied to a chair in a dank cabin that it would lead to this.” Booker wrapped his arms around her waist. “Never going to let me forget that, are ya?” “Nope.” She laughed, then noticed her hair was a mess. “I need a brush. Has anyone seen my hairbrush?” “Not something we keep track of.” Booker smirked and Rider gave a short laugh. “I have an extra in my saddlebag.” She zipped out the door and down the corridor, then outside to her Harley. While rooting through her belongings for a brush she sensed unwelcome company approaching from behind. Whipping around, she found herself face-to-face with a half dozen male Black Star riders. “Hey.” She offered them a smile, pretending she didn’t recognize their jacket insignias. “Hey, yourself,” one of the men countered. “Seems your Night Brigade group is making a move in our area.” “We’re only passing through. Can’t blame us for coming down to enjoy some of this great weather you’ve been having.” “That’s not how Stoke sees it. We have orders to bring 69

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you in.” Zoe tossed her head back with a cocky laugh. “Ya do, do ya?” “If you come quietly we won’t kill the rest of your clan.” He sneered. His words hit like a cold shot refueling her rage. “And if I don’t agree?” “We know where you live, what your weakness is and we have more loaded darts.” “What makes you think I am stupid enough to leave the rest of my pack home after your cowardly attack?” “We saw them ride into LA today. They’ve all been staked out. One call from me and you’ll have nothing left. I suggest you do as Stoke says.” “How do I know he’s a man of his word? He attacked my group without provocation.” “Guess you’ll have to take that up with him. What’s it gonna be?” Zoe kicked the loose gravel with her boot. This is not how I wanted it to go. But then this was war initiated by the enemy and most likely with a bit of assistance from a former comrade. She couldn’t have very well left her clan home unprotected. Yet, she hadn’t expected Black Star to organize so quickly upon their arrival and assumed they had time to devise a strategy. A meeting with her group would’ve been nice before this in order to move her comrades into protection. Well, at least we know they took the bait. “I’m not riding on back with any of you low-lives. You’ll have to escort me to your leader on my bike.” “Fine. Get your ass moving then,” he barked. She stole a longing glance toward the motel entrance before mounting her bike, knowing that her mates might not hear her since their room was located in back. Either way, she had no choice but to ride away with these miscreants 70

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and face their leader to keep her sisters safe. Her plan would have to be devised on the growl, but at least she would finally get inside. **** “Did you hear that?” Booker’s head shot up while gathering the last of their gear. “Yeah.” Rider slung a bag over his shoulder and bolted out the door. “Zoe’s bike. I’d know hers anywhere.” “Fuck,” Booker growled as they raced down the corridor. “Black Star found us before we could get organized.” “There’s only one way she’d go with them like this. They must’ve found the others and threatened to take them out.” Booker pointed south. “Look…there they are. Let’s follow, but not too close. I’m not losing track of her.” “What about her comrades?” Rider throttled his bike. “No time. Besides, at this point the less they know may be for the best. There’s nothing we can do anyway, until Zoe uncovers Black Star’s weak spot. Let’s just pray she succeeds.” “True, her comrades could make matters worse if they know.” Rider nodded. “I doubt Black Star will do anything to thwart Zoe’s cooperation. It’s obvious what the prick wants.” “The motherfucker will have to walk through me to get it.” Booker fired his engine. “And here I was worried Black Star might not take the bait.” Rider shot him an incredulous look. “Are you serious?” “I thought Stoke might get suspicious if Zoe was riding around alone down here. He’s cunning. I wanted time to discuss matters with her before letting her go into that camp. So many things she doesn’t know about different breeds of vampires…this is not the best case scenario.” 71

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“You came down to help her, not stop her, didn’t you?” Booker shrugged. “Couldn’t let her ride alone.” “Now who’s getting soft?” Rider shook his head with a grin. He’s right. I’ve had a soft spot for that woman from day one. She’s my only weakness. Booker kicked his bike into gear. I can live with that. **** Just over two hours past dusk, surrounded by several mangy riders Zoe rolled into an unnamed village on the southern outskirts of San Diego. The area seemed rather desolate and desert-like with adobe houses and dirt streets. They rumbled slowly down the middle of two rows of buildings. Who would want to live here? At the end of town, her escorts forced her to park in a dirt lot behind one of the larger homes on the street. A two-story house the color of everything else around her—tan—sat behind large metal gates covered in thick vines. They walked along a stone pathway to what she assumed served as the rear entrance. Once inside she did an immediate and quick surveillance of the interior. Gourds, dried produce and weeds hung from the ceiling. Wooden table and chairs took up one corner of the kitchen with an old wood-burning stove and rundown-looking refrigerator standing along the opposite wall. She glanced into the metal sink as they nudged her by and saw a huge black bug scurrying around in circles. Okay…enough surveillance. This place is a dump. Instead of going upstairs or into another room on the ground floor, her hosts guided her down a long flight of wooden steps that felt rather unstable. The lower level was vastly different than the upper and the air felt cool but dry. When her eyes had 72

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adjusted to the dim lighting, she saw Stoke, sitting like a king in a fancy upholstered armchair. Her gaze drifted over him for the first time. Very tall, dressed surprisingly debonair in a black-on-black three-piece suit minus the tie, he stared at her with those unusual black eyes. “Hell, all you need is a fucking cape…Stoke,” she mocked. “And I could call you Dracula.” Eerie silence hung in the air and she realized that his subordinates must’ve been shocked at her fearless approach. “Zoe Bella…we meet formally at last.” He flashed a row of white teeth, fangs included and she knew then that a challenge hung in the bounds. “Not formally. You introduced yourself to me, but I’ve never returned the courtesy. I’m sure I can guess how you know about me considering that you’ve stolen my prisoner.” He raised one slender finger in rebuttal. “Rescued, my dear…we rescued her from the evil clutches of your bloodthirsty vamps.” “Yeah,” she scoffed. “And you drink Kool-Aid.” “And the woman has wit.” He clapped his hands to mock her. She glared at him with contempt as he walked toward her. Every muscle in her body tensed as he circled her like some sort of prey on his dinner list. Then he touched her and she understood Booker’s concern. His stench made her want to retch—the odor of a rival vampire. This was not going to be pleasant. Regardless, she would have to play his game on his terms if she wanted him to come undone. “Do you know,” he began, using a calm voice. “Women fight to share my bed?” His hand boldly dipped beneath her top and moved over her breast. “I can seduce the most petulant vamp into begging me to mate her just so she can suck my cock in return.” Zoe summoned all her senses as he fondled her, determined to remain poised. “And I will have 73

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you pleading to be fucked before long.” He slid one hand between her thighs. “But unlike Paige…” His lips moved close to her ear. “I will come inside your hot little body because you are worthy of my seed. I wouldn’t want to mess those pouty, sexy lips of yours by spilling my emission into your mouth.” She resisted the almost overpowering urge to strike him down by keeping complete control of her emotions. He was one of the vilest creatures she’d ever met and his touch made her cringe. However, sex being foremost on his mind just may be an angle I can work to find his weakness. Every shark has a soft underbelly no matter how ugly they are. I just have to find it. “Tell me, Zoe, how long will you hold out on me?” He faced her now. Flecks of green flickered with malevolence in those evil black depths. Despite his striking, nearly intimidating appearance, she did not find anything remotely appealing about him. He represented the type of vampire that caused mortals to cower and tremble with fear at the word. Sinfully seductive and sinister with a grand sense of self, clearly out to slake his lust at any cost with no conscience whatsoever. She already loathed him. “I don’t give myself to strangers.” “Then by all means, let’s get to know each other.” Doing her best to hide her disgust, she met his gaze straight on. “What if I don’t want to know you?” “Hm,” he strolled a few feet away while rubbing his clean-shaven chin. “Tell you what, I’m in a generous mood, I shall offer you a choice. But before I present your options, let me show you one of the positions available. Shall we proceed?” She shrugged with casually lifted brows. “Whatever…carry on.” He motioned with one hand to a bystander. “Send in my 74

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love-slave.” “Is that what you call whores these days?” She taunted. A slow smile spread over his face as he gave her a sideward glance. “No, she begged me to take her in. I never force a female to do anything against her will.” “And whose will is it really? Your mind invading hers…or do you prefer blackmail?” “Ah, but you are a sharp-tongued little vamp. I shall enjoy watching you squirm.” His eyes shifted toward a side entrance and in walked Paige, dressed in a white linen robe. “See, Zoe, she came to me of her own accord. Nobody forced her.” Zoe turned away, unable to look at her one-time best friend and partner willingly giving herself to this animal. “Ah-ah-ah, Zoe, that’s cheating. Now you must observe if you are to make an informed decision as to your position here.” Two beefy men moved in at her sides so she decided to stay put. Stoke addressed Paige. “Tell our guest if I have forced you to do anything you don’t want?” “Never,” Paige replied with an iniquitous grin. “I am honored to be your lover and ever so grateful that you took me in.” “Now remember to watch carefully,” Stoke directed. “Or you may make a poor decision.” Zoe said nothing and remained stoic, which seemed to satisfy him for the time. “On your hands and knees, Paige,” he commanded. She eagerly obeyed. Zoe watched as he lifted the robe and draped it across her back, then unzipped his pants to release a huge erection. “It’s you that gave me this raging hard-on, Zoe. Touching those nice nipples and your tight ass, just the thought of 75

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sinking this into you turns me on.” “Paige!” Zoe shouted. “Can’t you see what he’s doing?” She couldn’t hold her tongue another minute. “How can you let him use you this way?” “Shut up, Zoe. I like it. He gives it to me better than any other man I’ve had…even your precious Rider. And I don’t even have to drink his blood and he doesn’t need to take mine. It’s the perfect arrangement with no bloody neck biting.” Zoe gasped in shock and instinctively turned to go, but the two guards stopped her. Stoke winked just before sliding into Paige. Zoe choked back the bile rising in her throat as she looked on in revulsion. Though her eyes had to endure the scene unfolding practically at her feet, her mind traveled to a distant place where her loving mates made her feel safe. Paige never made a sound other than soft moaning and whimpering during the lengthy mating. What came afterward made Zoe want to gag, but again she blocked out the horror and focused on her happy place. When Stoke had finished he tilted Paige’s face upward from her position kneeling before him. “Now, Paige,” he began. “Will you be upset if I take in another love-slave such as sweet little Zoe here?” “Not at all.” Paige glanced at her with a lick of her lips. “I’d enjoy watching her please you.” Stoke smiled, clearly satisfied by her response, then sent her from the room. “That is one option available to you,” he said while fastening his pants. “Or…you can become queen of my clan and rule everyone here…including me. I would be your slave. I’d do anything to please you and have a taste of your potent blood.” “What if I choose neither?” He smirked with an evil laugh. “Then I hand you over to my men. I won’t ever force you to do anything…but I can’t 76

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speak for my clan. They have their own ways of dealing with stubborn females.” Zoe sighed. “Then I guess we should get to know each other.” A spark flitted through his eyes and he waved the guards away, then offered her a seat. Several minutes later female servants carried in trays laden with food and drink. “Please, help yourself.” He sat back in his red velvet chair. She declined the food from lack of appetite. “Does Paige do these types of favors as well?” “No, no, Paige is strictly my love-slave. She is indebted to me for taking her in and because her failure to perform a menial task forced me to rescue her from your clan.” “I don’t understand. How did you meet?” He picked over the food on the tray until selecting a chunk of raw meat. “I am quite aware of Night Brigade’s activity with Flaming Steel.” “That was not my doing. They abducted me.” “Yes…I know. I heard about the woman they were bringing in so I kept an eye on everything surrounding them. I knew about Mott and what he’d done. I saw you take him down. Now that…that was impressive. The night you defeated Mott was the night I decided I had to have you.” The extent of his knowledge regarding Flaming Steel astounded her. She did her best to conceal her dismay by sitting calmly and not fidgeting. “But how did you meet Paige?” “When you launched a major attack on a neighboring group we began closely monitoring your clan’s activity. In the course of action we caught Paige riding through our territory with a couple bodyguards in tow.” He paused to nonchalantly pop a raw oyster into his mouth. “She had been traveling in and out of the south quite a bit last month. When I detected her scent and realized she was a rival 77

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vampire, naturally we had to stop her and inquire as to her intentions.” “Is that when you blackmailed her?” His eyes flashed with sudden anger. “We did not. She threw herself at me, begged me to take her in because she feared retaliation from your group.” “Mine?” “Yes. She said Night Brigade would be back and she was heading out to California to steal some blood. However, after meeting us, she had a change of heart.” Zoe scowled. “So she decided to abandon Flaming Steel and come here. Is there anyone she won’t betray?” He arched one brow. “She won’t betray me.” “No, I guess not. She’s in too deep. Tell me, what menial task, as you put it, did she fuck up that landed her in your eternal debt?” “She needed to prove to me that she could be loyal if she wanted our protection. After all, her track record isn’t very impressive. So instead of stealing blood, she was ordered to kill.” His words came out casually as if he had merely recited a weather report. “But Paige fucked up, as you put it,” he said with a wink. “Therefore I had to leave my comfort zone and get her ass back.” “You’re the one who tried to kill Rider?” Her breath caught in her chest. “Simple semantics, my dear. Paige had a debt to settle and I wanted you—one less man in the way once she completed the quest. Yet it seems that you had the intelligence and the power to bring him back to life. How powerful you must be. Makes me hard just thinking about it.” “You’re a coldblooded killer, nothing more.” She looked away to hide the tears pooling in her eyes. Stoke gave a sardonic laugh. “And Booker isn’t? I saw 78

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him finish off Mott when you failed. What is it with female vamps? Are they incapable of making a simple kill?” “Booker was protecting me. If you know so much, then you’d know that.” “Yeah, yeah, he’s a hero. Big fucking deal.” Stoke pushed off his chair and approached, then pulled her up to face him. “Now that you know who the strongest vampires are, what is your decision? Queen…love-slave…or vampire whore? I’d hate to see a lovely creature like you anything less than my queen.” He stood tall over her, staring down with cold eyes. Parted lips revealed fangs and for a moment she feared he would bite her as he lowered his head. His teeth slid along her jaw. She felt his clawing urge to sink those long canines into her neck. “Please…don’t,” she pleaded. “Wait until I’ve made my decision.” His heavy breathing spread over her skin. “I want you, Zoe. Don’t make me wait too long.” “What about my pack? What have your goons done to those that are left?” “They are safe.” Sharp fangs grazed her neck. “If you become my queen we shall bring them in and treat them as royalty…you have my word.” He spoke slowly and with a softer slant. She sensed his lust for her blood taking him under. “How do I know you’ll keep your word?” “Once we are joined I become your slave. Your word will rule. I can put it into writing if you like and sign in blood. If I go back on my word you may order my clan to kill me.” “I’d like time alone to consider your offer.” Stepping back, he stared with evident hunger. For what, she couldn’t discern, whether it be sex or blood or both. Either way, she’d bought some time—for now. 79

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“You shall sleep in my den tonight…I’ll be out.” He cupped her chin in one hand. “Don’t do anything foolish or your sisters will not see tomorrow.” “I will stay put as long as you keep your word.” She closed her eyes until he left the area. Two men returned and ushered her upstairs into a darklit room on the third floor with a king-size bed. Zoe’s gaze moved around the room decorated in elegant splendor. Apparently Stoke enjoyed a lush lifestyle. Red satin sheets adorned the bed. Black velvet draperies with tassels covered two large windows. Strings of beads hung vertically from a doorframe, suggesting on the other side would be a bathroom. Antique furniture graced the room, finely upholstered and clean. Candelabras perched on the Victorian end tables beside the bed. Holy shit, this does feel like Dracula’s castle. She walked around cautiously inspecting everything after the guards left. “Zoe…what are you doing in here? You better get out of his den before Stoke catches you.” She whirled around to find Paige standing just this side of the beaded doorway. “Paige?” “Get out,” Paige whispered. “He’ll kill you.” “Why would that matter to you?” “I could never hurt you, Zoe. I’ve always loved you.” “Yeah…right.” Paige began nudging her toward the door. “Go now.” “I can’t. Stoke told me to stay in his den tonight.” She swatted Paige away. “Get off me.” “Why would he do that? You’d never agree to become his love-slave.” Paige looked confused. “I have a decision to make.” Zoe sat on the bed. “Either I become his queen or he’ll kill the rest of Night Brigade.” 80

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“Queen? That’s not possible. He can’t take the blood of a woman mated to a rival vampire because it would weaken his line.” Something in her remark sparked a thought. “Can’t or won’t?” Zoe asked. Sitting down for a chat with this woman made her stomach churn, nevertheless, hidden clues may present themselves. She’d have to suck it up to win this war. “He’s not once come close to taking my blood or biting me,” Paige said with a haughty smile as if proud of the fact. “He said that he can’t nor can I have his. Works for me so I didn’t read much into it, but I guess for a blood-drinking vamp like you that would be an important aspect to a relationship.” “Wonder how he plans to take mine then,” Zoe muttered. “Certainly you’re not considering his offer, are you?” “Do you really think I’d let my sisters perish? Have you ever known me to put myself before them?” A distressed expression traversed Paige’s face. “No, you’ve always considered them first. What about Booker and Rider? If you mate with Stoke, they will leave you.” “Let me worry about them. Stoke assured me that my word would rule and he’d be my slave if I accept.” Zoe couldn’t help but grin. “That would make you my slave as well.” “Ugh.” Paige gasped. “He’s gone mad. I came here to get away from you, not play second again.” “So you were willing to take Rider’s life just to get away from me?” “It didn’t start out that way.” Paige poured water from a pitcher into a glass. “I was on my way to your new location…I just had to get some of Rider’s blood. Flaming Steel said that if I couldn’t make them immortal like I promised that they would leave.” “Why the hell would you strike a deal with them in the 81

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first place?” She stirred some instant tea into the glass. “I told you…I wanted to lead my own pack. But it didn’t work out as I planned. While on the way out to Crescent City I was accosted by Stoke and his crew.” “And he forced you to do his bidding?” Paige laughed. “Heavens no, have you truly looked at the man? He’s absolutely gorgeous. While he was questioning my intentions, I decided to hell with Travis that spineless prick. I wanted a fierce vampire like Booker.” “Stoke is nothing like Booker.” “Ha, he’s fearless and gorgeous and a real stud. Are you saying your mate is not any of those things?” “Booker is all of that and more,” Zoe snapped. “But he’s not evil like Stoke and he doesn’t need love-slaves.” “Hm…true.” Paige sipped her tea. “But you found Booker first so I had no choice. One look at Stoke and I was hooked. I persuaded him to take me in even though I had been mated, and he did.” “At one hell of a price.” “Whatever.” She shrugged. “He gives me what I want and I never had to bite him or drink his blood. I see why you left Travis, he was lousy in bed. Thought maybe if I could make him immortal he’d improve. But then Stoke came along so I ditched that plan.” “The whole time I was helping you get together with Rider, you were planning to use his blood just to make Travis better in bed?” “Sounds crazy, doesn’t it?” Paige laughed. “Just a bit.” “No harm done. You saved Rider from my attack and Stoke came to my rescue.” Zoe shook her head and blinked in shock. “No harm done? Black Star killed over half of your former comrades.” 82

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“Oh…well, sorry about that, but I screwed up by failing to kill Rider. They had their orders and I’m sure they didn’t want to be followed when they came to save me.” Paige yawned, then slid between the sheets. “I’m tired of talking.” “I’m not sleeping in the same bed with you.” Zoe stood up. “Suit yourself.” She wandered to the window and peeked through the heavy drapes. No ocean waves or shimmering moonlight to gaze upon—just pitch black. Mulling over her conversation with Paige, she struggled to grasp the madness. Never had she known anyone more scatterbrained or selfish. She felt ashamed to have chosen the woman as her partner when forming Night Brigade. Paige was like a dangerous tornado—sucking life from anyone in her way and leaving a path of destruction in her wake. Maybe Stoke didn’t want her blood. Surely a purebred vampire wouldn’t take the blood of a mere renegade. Yet Paige had used the word, can’t. For some reason that tiny detail hung on the edge of Zoe’s mind, as if an answer existed somewhere in those mindlessly dropped words. Knowing sleep would not likely come to her tonight, she tried to relax. Stoke would want an answer soon. “Would you like to know the real reason I sent Black Star up to your camp?” his voice startled her and she jumped. Swinging around, she collided with his body. “I thought you went out for the night.” “I’ll be leaving soon,” he said with a cunning smile. “Just wanted to see how you and my slave are getting along.” “I was civil.” Zoe turned away. “It wasn’t easy for me to withhold my rage, but I wanted answers.” His breath wisped her neck from behind. “To your past or about me?” “Paige offered me little on you, but at least I understand 83

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her actions now, even if they do infuriate me.” With his hands on her shoulders, he turned her to face him. “Do you want to know my reasons?” “Yes.” She didn’t flinch beneath his penetrating stare. “When Paige threw herself at my feet and agreed to my demands we followed her to learn the location of your camp. After she failed to kill Rider, I knew the only way to you was around your two mates so I did some homework.” “That’s why you showed up at the bar in Crescent City, to scope us out.” “I had business with a friend as well. I sent my crew for you the night your mates were scheduled to play. Instead of returning with you, they brought Paige.” He grimaced as if he’d smelled something unpleasant. “Imagine my surprise to find you sitting pretty at the club guarded by your two…lovers. Seems my friend gave me the wrong information.” She wondered who he knew in Crescent City. “You thought I had stayed behind while Booker and Rider rode down to San Francisco?” “Of course…I’m not fool enough to send my men into a fully armed camp.” “You never intended to rescue Paige, did you?” “I’d never start a war with a clan like yours over an incompetent renegade whore,” he said with a bitter laugh, then shot a glance toward the woman in his bed. “She’s a decent fuck and gives good head so I keep her around.” The dawning of his intent was quite disturbing. “Why did you have to kill my pack when you wanted only me?” “You’d never agree to be my queen knowing over fifty she-vamps would be planning a rescue.” He slid one finger along her neck. “I simply bettered my odds.” “Or perhaps you feared their revenge.” 84

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Fury blazed in his eyes. “I fear no one.” “Really?” She reached up and clutched the sides of his silky straight hair. “You should. Why haven’t you bitten me yet? Are you afraid of my blood? Am I too much for you?” Her sudden switch in demeanor stunned her as much as it appeared to affect him. He staggered back a couple steps, licking excess saliva from his lips. “Don’t forget, Zoe…” He said between heavy breaths, clearly aroused by her aggression. “I hold your Night Brigade in the palm of my hand. I expect your decision on the next moon.”

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Chapter Six

“Y

ou’re lucky I let you live,” Stoke growled. “If I hadn’t found her this time your ass would be mine.” Garret glanced at him, then resumed wiping down tables. “I wasn’t going to let you take her from Booker. He’s one of the good guys.” “Looks like I got her after all,” he sneered. “No thanks to you.” “You may be able to throw your weight around down in that hole you call home, but when you’re in my club I’m the boss. Don’t forget where your money comes from.” “You lied to me.” Stoke grabbed him by the neck. “You told me she hadn’t come down to the club with them…that she had stayed behind in her camp. I sent my crew out on a fool’s mission only to return with a fucking whore. And on top of that her mates have vanished so I’ve no idea where they’re lurking. I could’ve kept track of them had you not betrayed me.” “Look asshole.” Garret wrenched free. “Don’t expect me to sell out my friends, because I won’t. You drove into their territory looking for trouble. It’s not my fault you’re on their most wanted list. You put yourself there so deal with it.” “Once Zoe is my queen, I’m coming back here to finish you off.” “Good luck with that.” Garret watched him leave. Damn 86

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that fucking bastard! He longed for the day when someone obliterated Black Star. They’d been preying on his nightclub for years. Regret hung on every day over the decision to go into business with Stoke. However that venture had been established before he’d known the deviant was a vampire and had acquired a large clan. **** Booker lit a fresh smoke and took a long drag. He sat on his parked Harley keeping watch at a distance from the shadows of a small grove. “Any word from her yet?” Rider looked over at him. “No. She’s probably keeping her mind closed so Stoke can’t steal her thoughts.” Rays of dawn’s first light cast a hint of brightness over the dreary village. Booker sighed, feeling frustrated and powerless. The sun inched higher so he placed dark shades over his eyes. Rider had already been wearing his. Sunlight had become harder to tolerate, but the perks were well worth the minor inconvenience. Suddenly footsteps coming from behind drew him to full alert. Rider turned around, too. “Garret? What the hell are you doing down here?” Booker asked. “I heard Black Star took Zoe. I figured I’d find you lurking around Stoke’s nest.” “Hey, man.” Rider stuck out his hand in greeting. “What’s up?” Garret stared at them with troubled eyes. “I have something to tell you. I was going to tell you after the gig, but you guys split right away.” “Yeah, sorry. We had urgent matters on the home front.” 87

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“Stoke approached me after he heard that you guys would be playing at the club.” He shuffled his feet in some loose dirt while looking down. “He wanted me to tell him if Zoe had come with you for the first show.” “Why?” Booker felt the hair at the back of his neck prickle. “He assumed that eventually she’d stay home and planned to steal her away during one of our shows. I was supposed to keep him informed of your whereabouts.” “Keep talking.” Garret lifted his eyes. “I couldn’t do it. I didn’t want him taking her from you. I know how much you love her. So when he called that night I told him she hadn’t come along though she had. I figured he’d at least be out of the area for the night so you and Zoe could enjoy the evening. I never expected him to attack your biker group when he didn’t find her there. I thought he’d take his anger out on me, not a group of innocent women.” Booker flicked his spent cigarette into the dirt. “Are you the one who gave him our location?” “No way. I’d never sell you out. I had planned to give him the opposite of what he wanted, hoping he’d eventually give up.” “Why would you even bother with him in the first place?” Booker fired up another smoke. “He’s been threatening my club for years,” Garret confessed. “We started Club Heaven together, before he became a blood-sucking devil. When his clan got big they began using the club as a place to hunt females. Now I have to give him his cut of the money or he’ll start killing male patrons and I don’t want blood on my hands.” “Is that why you drove all the way up to Crescent City? You weren’t desperate to start up your band, were you?” Booker felt his blood heating up and his jaw begin to twitch. 88

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“Stoke sent you after us.” “I’m sorry. He said if I didn’t comply that he’d take one woman a day from my club until I did as he asked.” “This is how you knew we’d be here? He paid you a visit today because you failed him?” Garret nodded, visibly upset. “He said once Zoe is his queen that he’s coming back to finish me off. I wish someone would come along strong enough to destroy his filthy clan.” Booker exhaled slowly and gave him a stern look. “Go home, Garret.” **** Zoe opened her eyes and stretched. Having dozed off on the chair with her legs over the side, she felt a little cranky. Peering through the drapery, she saw sunshine warming the rooftops of rows of tan houses. What a dreadful place to live. A glance toward the bed revealed Paige’s sleeping form. What a lazy whore she’s become. I could never live like this. Today she had to devise a way to flush out Stoke’s weakness. Once the moon rose again, though she’d doubtfully receive the pleasure of viewing it, Stoke would be on the prowl. Pastries and fruit had been placed on a small round table near the bed. She wondered if Stoke had snuck in or if a servant delivered the goods. A diamond-cut crystal decanter filled with purple-colored liquid sat beside the tray of fresh food. She wondered if he’d slipped his blood inside the pitcher. Hesitantly she sniffed at the goods, then the drink. Everything smelled kosher so she helped herself to a donut, but cautiously avoided the juice. “It’s not tainted with blood,” Paige said. “I didn’t know you were awake.” “I usually get up around dawn, take a walk, then come back for an afternoon nap whenever Stoke isn’t in need.” She 89

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glanced toward the window. “He’ll be coming in any minute for his morning sex.” “Great” Zoe tossed her half-eaten donut onto the tray. “There goes my appetite.” “Oh, Zoe, lighten up. You’re no saint. Don’t forget I saw you getting fucked by two men at the same time…I hardly think you have a claim to purity.” With no desire to offer a rebuttal, she retreated to the chair. She was too stressed to indulge Paige in head games this morning. About a minute later in walked Stoke looking like a mosquito that had overstayed its visit at a streetlight— bedraggled and bleary-eyed. He pulled Paige to the edge of the bed and proceeded with their ritualistic mating grunting like a rutting male animal. At least he didn’t force her to watch this time. He seemed preoccupied, but his cold aura had no daunting effect on Paige’s lust for the beast. She took everything he offered with obvious zeal and Zoe wondered how much of it was for show. When finished, Stoke left the room without a word or even a look in her direction much to her relief. She surmised he would sleep during peak hours of sunlight. “Doesn’t it bother you that there is no kissing or romance?” Zoe asked, surprised that she had, yet the thought had simply burst forth. Paige thought for a moment, then shook her head. “No. We don’t need all that mushy stuff to get excited. I get hot and bothered at the sight of him.” “Don’t you wonder what’s turning him on?” “Nope and I don’t care so stop it. As long as he keeps me in his bed I’m happy.” She dressed quickly, then drank a glass of juice. “See you later.” Zoe kicked back beside the window to decompress. One fact remained clear. She’d have to assure Stoke he’d have her as his queen in order to save the rest of her clan. He had 90

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proven himself as a ruthless, murdering bastard. Her dilemma did not lie in the convincing, but how to get out from under him and find his vulnerability once he took the bait. Every vampire had at least one weakness. When the house grew quiet, she allowed her mind to relax a bit. Stoke seemed at bay for now and she doubted he’d make another appearance before dusk. His vampirism seemed vastly different than hers. She wondered if he could succumb to traditional methods of death used on vampires through the ages. However, she didn’t have the luxury of time to put him to the test. Not to mention I’m fresh out of Holy Water, garlic and wooden stakes. She giggled softly. How she managed to keep her wit in this sinister, foul environment amazed her. The past hours had been extremely difficult yet somehow she managed to endure his stench, his offensive touch and his filthy mouth. Booker must be going crazy by now. I miss him. I miss them both…their scent and caress…voices that flow over me so soothingly. Resting her chin on folded hands at the window sill, she gazed down the dusty street. At least it’s not raining. The street looked lonely with nobody about. This entire village must be his nest. While studying the surroundings a glint of light caught her attention. She focused harder and honed in on what had picked up that flash of sun—a fender—a gleaming black Softail fender. It must be him. Her spirit lifted upon believing that her mates had tracked them and perhaps waited at the edge of town. Closing her eyes she channeled her thoughts. Is that you, baby? Are you here? She waited patiently. Yes, angel, we are here. Booker’s silent words felt like music to her soul. Are you okay? Hanging in there. I think he went back to his coffin. She smiled, hoping he’d catch her humor. Good to see you still have your wit. Do you have a plan yet? 91

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Footsteps sounded in the next room. I think so. Don’t go too far. I miss you. Have to go. We love you, sugar, stay tough. Her adrenaline raced and she sealed her thoughts moments before the door opened. “That was a short walk.” Zoe said, furrowing her brows in disdain. “Must we be caged in this room together?” “I can have the guards take you out for recreation if you’re not content to wait here.” “No thanks.” She didn’t miss Paige’s subtle dig and fumed over her condescension. “What have you decided to tell Stoke?” “Do you even care?” Zoe lifted a corner of her mouth in a derisive frown and cocked one eyebrow. “Yes…your decision affects my relationship with him.” “You call this a relationship?” Paige stepped toward her. “Don’t toy with me. I want to know what your decision is.” “I have no choice but to accept his offer and become his queen. I can’t live with myself if he kills my clan because of me…unlike someone else in the room.” “You stuck-up, self-righteous slutty bitch!” Paige lunged at her with closed fists. “Are you collecting vampire studs now?” Stunned but not blindsided, Zoe dodged her strikes. They went down on the floor with a thud, wrestling as Paige struggled to get her hands around Zoe’s throat. “You beat me once,” Paige panted. “You’re on my turf now, tough girl.” Zoe welcomed the opening. “I’ve been waiting for an excuse to take you out.” She’d had enough. Her decision to allow this traitor to live had been a disastrous mistake. Weeks of pent up rage surged through her making blood like fire in her veins. Paige’s gloating, recollections of the 92

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massacre in Crescent City and visions of her smugly standing beside Travis flashed through Zoe’s mind. They rolled against the bed. Zoe landed a glancing blow to her face, then thumped her head off the bed post. Paige put up a good fight—even managed to sneak a couple punches and kicks to Zoe’s upper body. However, her fury had been seething since the day Night Brigade had taken Paige prisoner instead of ending her life, and the mild strikes did nothing but fuel her anger. “I’m not going to spare your life this time.” Zoe maneuvered her into a headlock and began pummeling her face. Paige twisted and struggled with a good bit of might, more than Zoe expected. She’d trained her soldiers well. But this one was going down for the last time. Her heat had risen and visible waves began to radiate around them, causing Paige to scream for her life. Zoe pressed a hand to her chest, prepared to sear skin from bone and rip out her beating heart. “Nooooo! Somebody help me!” “Shut the fuck up,” Zoe growled. The stench of burning skin stung her nose. Just then the door flew open. A herd of men rushed into the room and grabbed Zoe by her arms and legs. Paige rolled out of the way, clutching her chest and wailing in pain. “I’ll get you.” Her eyes never left Paige as the men dragged her from the room. They carried her kicking and thrashing to the lower level where after a ferocious struggle, they succeeded in binding her wrists and ankles with steel cuffs. “Scream all you want down here,” one man said with a smirk. “I only hope Stoke turns you over to us. We’ll teach you how to behave.” 93

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“Go to hell!” Zoe spat. “When I’m your queen you’ll soon learn the meaning of discipline.” He cowered at her threat and she saw the fear in his eyes. Murmuring rose among them as they scurried back up the rickety steps, then closed the door at the top after walking out. Her gaze moved around the room where she’d first met Stoke in his domain. His stench permeated the area and she retched to her side. Bringing an arm up to wipe her mouth, she tried to calm her frantic state of mind. Paige had thrown her instantly into fight mode and with no release, Zoe’s adrenaline ran wild. Sweat soaked her clothes. “Damn her.” She yanked against the chains only to draw blood on the skin. “Fuck this.” Sitting on the floor chained to his chair in a dark dungeon dimly lit by candles, she wanted to scream her fury. Knowing she could use her enhanced ability to escape offered little comfort. Doing so would end the life of her remaining comrades. Stoke’s throne was to her left and the sight of it forced bile into her throat again. She choked it back and continued looking around. A large chalice that hadn’t been there during her first visit to this room had been placed on a table beside his elaborate chair. Peering into the shadows, she noticed the area seemed much larger than initially thought as if partitions had been removed. This must be his ceremonial room. Exhausted from lack of sleep, excessive stress and an adrenaline rush, she decided to rest. Tonight may require all my strength. As she began to drift off with her head against the wall, a voice floated through her mind in that twilight realm between consciousness and sleep. Rest, my child, tonight you will prevail. Zoe twitched slightly as the thought came and went. Reflexively she checked her neck for the chain, hoping it 94

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hadn’t been lost in the fight. Her fingers caressed the smooth pendant while lulling her to sleep. Someone touching her face drew Zoe fully awake. Startled she jerked against the chains. “I didn’t mean to startle you,” he murmured. “The moon is beginning to rise.” She looked up at Stoke, who stood dressed in a black silk shirt and tight black pants. For a disturbing brief moment he appeared almost appealing. She shook her head to regain her senses and noticed that his scent did not offend her now—in fact she couldn’t detect it at all. Strange. “There has been talk that you will become my queen.” With unexpected gentleness, he released the cuffs and removed the chains. “I heard that you fought with Paige…did my slave offend you to cause such a violent reaction?” “You could say that.” She rubbed her sore wrists while staring warily. “She attacked me.” He lifted her to her feet. “Why?” “She has a problem with my decision.” Zoe felt the relief of instant healing come to her abrasions. “You’ve made one then?” “Yes.” Lust flooded his eyes. “What have you decided?” “I will become your queen to save my clan.” As the words came out she wondered how to get out of this one. Thus far her only glimmer of hope was his reluctance to bite. A most peculiar aspect for a vampire. “Excellent.” He reached for her waist. “Uh-uh.” She stopped him. “I don’t work like Paige. You cannot have my body until our blood has been sealed by your bite.” 95

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Frustration furrowed his brows. “I do not give my bite until a woman permits me to mate her.” “I’ve never given myself to a man without a solid commitment. My first was by marriage and I never gave my body to Mott. Booker did not mate with me until after sealing our bond with his bite.” “I cannot.” The vein in his neck began to noticeably throb. “You must mate with me before I can seal our blood…it’s the way of our clan.” “That’s absurd,” she scoffed. “What do you take me for? All vampires want blood.” Zoe pulled her shoulders back and lifted her chin. “I guess we have a problem.” “Yes.” His stare burned into her as if trying to steal her thoughts. She sensed the conflict in his soul—an internal struggle between the urge to slake his lust and something else—a concern he guarded closely. Either way, his burning need to mate with her became clearly evident. No fear. Deciding to take a risk based on his odd claim, she moved closer. I will seduce his weakness straight from his mouth, just as I promised Booker. “You’re just aching to bed me,” she whispered and began to circle him. Using all her strength to conceal her hate, she ran her hands up his chest, then down over his abs and lower to brush the rock-hard erection jutting against smooth fabric. “One little bite and I’ll let you drive this into me. Surely as alpha male you can bend the rules of your clan to spare my honor.” She summoned the urge not to recoil at touching him. He lowered his head to kiss her lips which caught her off guard. He didn’t strike her as the affectionate type. Yet she managed to avert her lips and his mouth brushed her cheek. “Please, Zoe…let me mate. I swear on my life I will seal our blood the moment my seed touches your womb.” 96

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Sensing his internal struggle, she backed away just a few inches and decided to give him a glimpse of what he’d never have in hope of gaining the upper hand. Every man had a weak point—be it lust, greed, money or power. She wagered that Stoke’s was lust from what she’d seen thus far. If I want to expose what he’s holding back, I’ll have to push harder. Forcing her mind into compliance, slowly she removed her tank top and teasingly slid one strap of her bra off a shoulder, then the other. His eyes glistened as she wriggled the garment down to bare her breasts. A situation such as this required desperate measures. I stripped for money long ago…I can do this to save my clan. She’d made a split second decision to walk on the edge to bring him under her spell and there’d be no turning back now. “I must have your bite before you penetrate my body. A queen’s honor is her crown.” Next she undid her leather pants far enough to allow him a glimpse of her lace panties. “Don’t you want all of this?” “Fuck yes.” He dropped to his knees and clutched her waist with his face pressed against her stomach. “I can smell your sex. I’ve never wanted anyone more. I must taste you…all of you.” Pushing him back, she continued the dangerous tease. “You may have a little taste…” Sliding a hand beneath the lace, she dipped one finger lower, then brought it to his mouth aware that his breaking point drew near. “Perhaps it will ease your tension.” Greedily he sucked her finger and released a long, guttural groan. “A vampire cannot take you without your consent. Why do you torment me so?” She kept him at arm’s length, but permitted him to continue sucking her finger. “I will not compromise my honor for any man. Your anguish is your own if you cannot give your bite.” 97

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“You know I want you, why can’t you compromise?” He stared up with watery eyes. “Why can’t you? I conceded to become your queen. The least you can do is show me respect.” She traced his mouth with the same finger. “My blood carries extreme power and rare gifts or you’d not want me as you do. Therefore you must meet my demands.” Taking a sharp breath, he closed the gap between them and nipped at the skin below her navel before dropping his head submissively, gasping at her groin. “I cannot take your blood first…believe me if I could we’d be mating right now.” Why? She wondered. Repeating her previous act, she slid one finger between his lips. “Then I suppose you will have to be satisfied with this little taste until you overcome your…infirmity.” His ravenous tugging on her finger revealed a weakening state. She edged her pants open a tiny bit more. Immediately his teeth grazed her lower stomach and he began breathing erratically. “So close yet so far away,” she taunted with a forced grin. Rolling onto the floor in open exasperation, he pulled her down and laid over her in a frightening move. “Is this how you charmed Booker?” “He trusted me enough to make a commitment before seeking sex.” His teeth slid along her neck. “You are indeed a dangerous seductress.” “And that is why you want me. Are you not more powerful than Booker? I mate only with the most powerful males.” Their eyes met and she spied a glimmer of jealousy. “You challenge my honor?” “Of course.” Again she slipped one finger into his mouth. 98

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“How can I trust my body to a man keeping secrets from his future queen?” His tongue swirled around her finger as his eyes grew heavy with want and he spoke in a low voice heavy with raw desperation. “If we don’t mate first I will die.” They stared at each other in shock. He clearly hadn’t planned on admitting that. He panted for breath while trembling against her. She had broken through now and needed to use all her self-control to bring it home despite how repulsive she found him. Gently reaching up to touch his face, she forced a soft smile. “Why? Has something weakened you?” A haze of desire traversed his face. “I cannot take the blood of a rival vampire unless she permits me to penetrate her…” He paused to swallow, clearly consumed with lust. “Or it will kill me.” “Oh.” “So you see, Zoe.” His breath wisped her neck. “The moment my cock fills your luscious…female…sex…” He pressed her into the floor, wedging the bulge in his pants between her thighs. “I will give you the bite you so crave as I come inside your fiery little body.” “I’ve never heard of a vampire perishing from drinking blood,” she muttered, feeling somewhat dazed. He had more power than she’d expected. Regardless, his heart was on her platter almost ready to be served—she needed to substantiate this uncharacteristic declaration—her future hung on the truth. “How do I know this isn’t a trick just so you can bed me?” she asked, strategically shifting her hips so that his erection moved into perfect position had they not been clothed. “I bet it’s been a very…long…time, since you came inside a nice, warm pussy. Are you certain that my blood would harm you?” He groaned wildly and his words came out in a rush. 99

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“Yes, damn you. Just as the fish oil is toxic to you so is another vampire’s blood to us if we don’t fuck them first.” One hand dropped to her waist and began pulling at her jeans. “Please, now that I’ve opened myself to you…give me your body and I’ll give you my bite. I need to come and I want to come inside you.” Sitting back on bent knees, he stared down and the tension on his face indicated he was about to lose control. After unzipping his fly and releasing his cock, he reached for her waist. Zoe rolled out from under him in a flash of panic. “Wait.” Thinking fast, she made a grab for her garments. “I must be prepared. Don’t forget, I am a queen, not a common whore. A proper mating takes time.” She managed a beguiling smile, slowly pulling the bra up over her breasts as he watched with hungry eyes. “I need to be kissed and touched…to lie beneath you as your warm mouth sucks my neck and your tongue readies me for your entry. You said you want to taste all of me.” She paused with a slow lick of her lips. “When you have done so, then you may guide your sex into mine and sink those teeth into my neck as your hot seed flows into my body.” “Fuck,” he muttered before closing his eyes with a strained expression. “No woman has ever done this to me.” Her gaze drifted downward to where a flood of translucent white had made a mess on his pants. The erection weakened in premature orgasm. He hung his head and drew a ragged breath. “You’re right. I want it to last so that you scream with pleasure.” Well, at this rate, not likely, Zoe mused. “I’ll have Paige moved to another room so you may rest a while. Once I’ve prepared the ceremonial bed I will come for you. From that point on we will share my den and the slave will be auctioned off to the men.” Zoe kept her emotions well hidden and forced her 100

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thoughts into submission. With Paige out of her hair, she’d be able to carry out the plan she’d just conceived. Stoke pulled himself together, then escorted her up the steps. “I’m sorry for how my men handled you, they will be punished. I was in a deep sleep during the altercation.” “You’re forgiven.” She walked into his den and sat on the bed. “Will there be a celebration or witnesses? I’d not want your clan to challenge my new rank.” “Yes, we will have an official ritual with my clan present to celebrate such a memorable occasion. I will return for you myself. No man is to touch you now except me.” “Is that what the chalice is for? Do you make us all drink your blood?” “Not blood, my dear, only wine to celebrate our joining.” “I see.” She offered her cheek when he moved to kiss her lips. He looked disappointed, but smiled anyway. “Remember, Zoe, the fate of your clan rests in my hands. I want to complete our mating before dawn.” “Yes.” Her gaze followed him out the door. After locking it securely, she glanced around the room. In all the commotion nobody had bothered to clear the morning tray. With a bit of luck she would succeed and still save her comrades. If all went as planned, she’d have time to rescue them before word spread. She wondered how to get word to them. Wait, I still have my cell phone. Stoke never thought to take it. She moved to the chair by the window and keyed a quick message to Erin. White doves fly at night, but for now they must be still. Keep the doves together until I contact you. How she wished Booker would carry a phone. Now would be a great time. She shrugged it off and went about in search of a blade. Once securing a straight edge from the cabinet in his bathroom, she returned to the breakfast tray 101

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and dragged the razor across her wrist, making a deep cut. Holding the open wound over the decanter, she squeezed as much blood as possible into the juice before her cut healed. Damn. She sighed and made another cut. Her vampire status had grown so strong that she healed almost instantly. Several tries later she had drained about a pint of her blood into the drink. I sure hope this is enough.

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Chapter Seven

“I

brought this for you to wear.” Stoke appeared without a sound of his approach, immaculately groomed. Zoe accepted the red satin, halter-top dress. “Hm, guess I won’t be wearing much underneath.” “Hence the appeal.” He smiled. He seemed almost charming which scared the hell out of her. His influence had been under estimated and for the first time since meeting him, she felt in over her head. He silently refused her the privacy to dress and observed intently as she removed her clothes in exchange for the slinky red garment. His demeanor had become eerily calm and dangerously mysterious. Quietly he moved behind her while she straightened her hair before the vanity mirror. She gasped when one hand dropped below the hemline and slid up her thigh. Grabbing his hand, their eyes met in the mirror in which she received an admonishing look. He simply shook his head no and the realization that she’d teased him far enough became clear. Her body froze as it had the first time he’d advanced on her upon arrival to this hellish place. “The necklace…where is it from?” he asked. “A gift from my mother, I never take it off so please don’t ask.” “Fair enough.” Hot breath feathered her neck. Lips moved along her skin while slender fingers stroked the flesh between her thighs. 103

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His other hand trailed over her scantily clad breasts, then slid beneath the delicate fabric to tease her nipples. She held her breath and silently cursed her treacherous body for responding even slightly to his uninvited touch. Yet a dull ache began to rise in her core. “Such nice breasts,” he murmured. “And your pussy is ripe and wet…I can’t wait.” Then he lifted his hand and sucked the cream he’d induced from each finger. “Mm…you are powerful. I’m looking forward to the main course.” He led her out and she grabbed the decanter while passing by, keeping it tucked behind her back with one hand and wondering how she’d slip it into the wine. His evident lust had thus far been her greatest advantage in blanketing details another vampire wouldn’t have missed. A large gathering waited on the lower level when they walked in. Stoke immediately went to a large bed bordered by burning candles that had been erected in the far corner. In the shadows sat the chalice beside his chair. Everyone’s attention seemed to be on Stoke and a woman kneeling on the bed. “First,” he announced. “My slave shall indulge me before I take a queen, isn’t that right, Paige?” “Of course, Stoke. I’d do anything for you.” “Good girl. Tonight I must be kept pure so you will only receive the pleasure of sucking my cock to prepare it for mating, is that okay with you? After the ceremony you’ll be well satisfied.” “I could never say no to you.” Paige began her task with disturbing eagerness to please this man. While everyone remained absorbed in the sexual display, Zoe inched toward the chalice and was able to secretly pour the contents of the crystal decanter into the large golden cup. She rolled the empty bottle under his chair with her foot and stood quietly. 104

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Stoke finished and zipped his pants. “I have prepared myself for an eternity of monogamy, but a fate well worth the reward. Zoe has chosen to become my queen therefore I have given Paige one last taste of me before letting her go. Now that you’ve seen her talent, are there any among you wishing to purchase this fine slave?” Paige obviously hadn’t been expecting this. “What? I pledged myself to you.” “And you have served me well.” He cupped her chin in one hand. “Your debt to me is settled.” “Stoke, no,” cried Paige as the men began to cast their bids. “I love you.” “Love?” He tilted his head as if he’d never heard the word. “We’ve never discussed love. You begged me to take you in and then pleaded to become my love-slave. I never claimed to love you.” “But you kept me in your bed and didn’t make me work.” “Yes. I don’t like my women stroking me with calloused hands. You were very good, but now I have a queen. Had she opted to become a slave like you, then I could keep you both. However, Zoe will rule us now and you attacked my chosen queen.” Paige pointed a finger. “She provoked me!” “I don’t care if she’d struck you. Nobody is to touch the queen. Now you are to be disciplined for your disrespect.” He smirked. “Unless of course, you no longer have need of our protection.” With a bow of her head, Paige relented. “As you wish.” Zoe realized that he’d decided to use this event to make a public example of dishonoring a superior member. A tall, somewhat good-looking man cheered when nobody challenged his bid of ten-thousand dollars. His grin revealed some nasty fangs as he pulled Paige off the bed. All of Paige’s gloating had come back to bite her—literally. 105

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“Don’t worry, honey,” he said. “I’ll be gentle with you. All the females enjoy my bite and I never leave them unsatisfied.” Stoke came to Zoe and took her hand. “Are you ready?” “Yes, shall we share a toast before getting underway? I am thirsty.” With a cunning smile, he lifted the chalice. “Ladies first.” She read his wide-open thoughts and returned his smile. He thinks I’ve poisoned the drink. After gently swirling the wine mixture, she raised the metal cup to her lips and swallowed several times. Even if someone had dropped swordfish oil into the chalice as sabotage—Paige came to mind—she now had the confidence that the oil could not harm her so she freely drank, then passed it to Stoke. “Better quench your thirst before we get started,” she said with a wink. “You’ll work hard tonight.” Excitement flitted through his eyes. He readily drank before handing it to the next man. She watched in nervous anticipation, praying Stoke hadn’t lied and that her one pint of blood carried enough power to make it around the large gathering. By the time the cup came full circle, Stoke appeared a bit intoxicated. “Last drink goes to my future queen.” He held the cup to her lips. After placing the empty chalice back on the table, he turned toward his clan. “Now I will take my queen.” He began to sway while leading her to the bed. “Lie down.” Zoe did as directed. “Before we mate, will you show good faith and call off the men stalking my comrades?” She raked her hands up her body in a seductive act, subtly taking the dress higher up her thighs to give his following gaze a peek. “Please?” She bent her knees with bare feet braced on the bed. He began to salivate as her thighs eased apart just far enough for a better glimpse. “I need to know they are safe if I am to enjoy you.” 106

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“Fuck…” He wiped his brow while staring ravenously between her legs. “I want that.” He gave the nearest man a nod. “Call off the guards. Zoe is mine.” Knowing her sisters were safe sent a wave of relief over her, yet she still held concern over how far this seduction would hold out. Her blood was clearly having an effect, but he still seemed alert enough to perform. She heard a man speaking on his phone calling in the guards, laughing over their victory. Then other sounds began filling the large room—thumps and groaning. Zoe released her thoughts. I found their weakness. Come at once. Our blood is toxic to them. “What have you done?” His eyes filled with dread. “Nothing, why?” Stoke’s gaze left her for a moment. “My clan…they seem ill.” “They must be drunk on the wine.” A dark expression fell over his face. “Your interest in the wine…you laced it with your blood. We must mate at once or I will die.” “I don’t think so.” Zoe flung herself off the bed and to her feet just before he pounced. His perception had dulled, sending him sprawling to the floor. Paige shrieked and came running toward them. Clearly panic-stricken, she stood trembling beside Zoe while staring down at Stoke. “If I’m leaving this world, then so are you, Zoe, my queen.” Stoke reached under the bed and presented a rifle of some sort. Zoe focused and realized he had hidden a tranquilizer gun before the ritual. “You have serious trust issues. What were you planning to do…kill me after having your way?” He shook his head, seeming to have trouble speaking. “I-I brought this in the event you changed your m-mind. I 107

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couldn’t let you go when so-so close to having you.” “You were never close to having me.” She started backing away, choosing to let him believe the darts could harm her. In a weakened voice he said, “Y-yes, yes I was. I felt you. Smelled your sex upstairs, tasted it. You’d have surrendered to me by sunup.” Could he have seduced me? She shuddered at the thought yet her body had betrayed her beneath his sinfully seductive touch. “Even if you had won my body, you would’ve never had my heart…I gave it away to the most amazing men I’ve ever known. They are honest and sweet, but above all they are stronger than you’ll ever be because it’s their blood in my veins. They made me who I am and my power comes from their blood. I am their queen not yours.” His black eyes flashed with green as he took aim. “Not for long.” In a sudden movement, Paige darted behind Zoe, grabbing her arms. “Go ahead, Stoke…I’ll find a way to save you.” Zoe twisted free and whipped around in time to see Paige clutching her neck in open shock, then collapse on the floor. Her arms fell to her side, revealing the dart stuck into her skin. Apparently her refusal to feed on Rider’s blood when she had the chance had left her with no immunity to swordfish. She had brought upon herself the same fate suffered by her former comrades and at her hands no less, for leading Black Star to the Night Brigade camp. “Geez, Stoke,” she knelt on the floor between them. “You just killed your love-slave.” While he lay there, gasping for breath, she found a cell phone lying near one of the bodies and keyed Erin’s number. “Hello?” Erin sounded leery. “Get your ass down here on the double. Follow the riders who should’ve left a few minutes ago. Keep a safe distance 108

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and meet us at the corner before coming into town.” A strong hand grabbed the straps around her neck. “I’m not dead yet. The tainted wine may have killed the others, but I am stronger…it would’ve taken your concentrated blood to kill me. We have unfinished b-business.” “Like hell we do.” She tried to pull away, but his grip held tight drawing her head down toward his. “You just sent the rest of your clan into a trap. Did you think I’d leave the doors unguarded while I fucked you all night?” Consumed by rage and disdain mixed with a bit of fear, she spit in his face. “Bastard.” He smirked despite the act. “That dart wasn’t meant for you. I’d never have such poor aim.” “What?” “I wanted her out of the way when I take you. Your girls will no doubt come looking when they don’t find you at the corner. When I recover from this attempt you will be mine.” His strength astounded her. Everyone else in the room lay dead yet he still fought the effects. Realizing how severely she’d underestimated him, panic rose in her throat and her eyes welled with tears. “My guards are armed with loaded darts so very soon your entire clan will be mine.” He coughed several times. “You will have nothing…unless you carry out your promise and become my queen.” Out of nowhere a man’s voice growled above them. “Wrong. She has everything she needs right here.” She saw a knife flash before her eyes and the fabric of the dress gave way. Frantically she scooted back. Booker reached for her, but she cowered, tugging the dress up to her neck. Stoke tried desperately to get up, but the wine still had him disabled. “Don’t touch me!” Tears streamed down her cheeks. “I’m tainted.” She saw the mixed emotion as Booker took in her 109

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scanty apparel. Instant rage swept through his eyes. “Did he force himself on you?” “No…oh god no, I’d die before letting him do that,” she sobbed out the words. “But he…he touched me.” Sadness, then trepidation followed by intense hate traversed his face, yet he seized her around the waist and lifted her to face him. He lowered his head and inhaled at her neck. His lips brushed her forehead. “I don’t smell him on you.” Zoe cried. Her body shook as pent up emotion tumbled out. “I let him touch me.” She fell at his feet and sobbed. Rider appeared at their side. “All the guards have been disarmed. They scattered. How is she?” He laid a pile of loaded tranquilizer guns and a handful of extra darts on the floor. “I don’t know…she seems out of it.” Booker knelt on the floor. “Angel, sshhh. You flushed out their weakness. We can finish them off now.” He pulled her into his arms and petted her hair. “Here, put this on.” Rider slid his jacket around her. “What about your comrades?” “They are safe and on their way.” Zoe stuffed her arms into the sleeves and wrapped it tightly around her body. Slowly she looked up at them, afraid of what she’d see in their eyes. They stared at her with open concern. Stoke lay still breathing and squirming at their side. “Hold her.” Booker grabbed a gun and dart. “I’m gonna kill the motherfucker.” “No!” Zoe jumped up, drawing baffled expressions from both men. “I’ll do it.” She took the weapon from him, unloaded the dart and expelled the fish oil from the syringe. Then, to their 110

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amazement by the looks on their faces, she pulled up a sleeve and plunged the needle into the vein of her arm, drawing her blood into the chamber. After the dart had been reloaded into the gun, she turned toward Stoke who lay staring up in open terror—alive and struggling to get up. “What was it you said about female vamps unable to make a simple kill?” she snarled with the weapon pointed at his chest. “You can’t do it,” he sneered. “You couldn’t kill Paige and you couldn’t even kill Mott…you’re not a killer.” She fired the dart straight into his chest over the heart. “Wrong again.” His gaze held hers as he gasped. “I-I didn’t think you would…this isn’t the end.” He faded away before her eyes—leaving nothing but a mass of dust on the floor. Dropping the gun, she slunk back with a blank stare. Everything suddenly seemed surreal. “There are still more of them, aren’t there?” “Yeah, sugar, but we’ll get them as they ride back in. C’mon, let’s get you out of here.” Booker eased her up. “Don’t forget the guns,” he told Rider. “My clothes…” she muttered, still feeling dazed. “They are upstairs.” “You didn’t have your jacket with you. Don’t worry about those fouled clothes. We have your travel bag at our bikes.” Nodding, she relented and he led her away while she looked back at the numerous piles of ash scattered throughout the area. Even Paige had disintegrated, making Zoe realize that her clan had most likely been nothing but dust before Black Star had torched the cabins. The knowledge offered little consolation. But at least Paige had finally met her demise and at the hands of her evil lover no less. 111

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Rider lowered his head so that their eyes met. Gently he lifted the pendant at her neck. “And through everything you never lost the amulet.” “He asked about it…I told him it was a gift from my mother and that I never take it off.” Her words came out methodically as if someone else had spoken for her. She felt numb. The reality of her captivity in Stoke’s domain and the events surrounding it began filtering through her mind as if she’d watched a horror movie. “Oh shit.” Zoe covered her eyes when they walked outside “I haven’t been in sunlight for over a day. It hurts like hell.” As soon as they reached the bikes, she donned some shades to stop the pain. “I’ve never been more grateful to see these awesome machines.” They stood watch as she found fresh clothes in her bag and dressed. Rider looked over as he mounted his Harley. “Stoke’s guards took off in a flash when their loaded darts had no effect on us. Your connection to the spirit world has given us the edge we need. In spite of how you feel right now, know that it has been your heart and soul leading us since we met.” She offered him a grateful smile, feeling undeserving of his praise. “I did things in there that fill my heart with shame.” Before straddling his bike, Booker walked to her and gripped the thick of her hair. “What kind of things?” Zoe didn’t answer. Sharp teeth grazed her neck and she felt his torment—his need—his overpowering love and his rage. “Did you kiss him?” he uttered in a low growl against her skin. She shivered at his touch. “He tried, but his lips never touched mine.” 112

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In a sudden movement, he jerked her body against his. “If he didn’t kiss you or mate with you, then tell me what this shame is.” Looking away from his seeking gaze, she replied, “I let him taste me.” Gently he pulled her head back, forcing her to make eye contact. “How?” “Must you bare my soul?” Tears slid down her cheeks. His voice was low and soft, yet undeniably commanding. “I asked you a direct question, woman. You knew I was against this. Did his mouth touch your sex?” “No…I used my finger, then…” She could barely speak it. “Then he approached me before the ritual and used his.” Fire flashed in his eyes for an instant before yielding to a smoldering stare. “He was stronger than you anticipated, wasn’t he?” “Yes, you were right. I had to take great lengths to seduce him into giving up the information we needed. But when he started dropping clues I had to follow through. I knew I had hit on something. Once he revealed his weakness I couldn’t back out.” “And he nearly seduced you, didn’t he?” This was a question that would always remain murky to her, yet she knew where her heart had been the entire time. “His vampire influence may have drawn an automatic response from my body, but I never wanted him…not for one minute while he was drooling over me did I feel anything but contempt. It took all my strength…everything inside my soul to seduce that vile man.” His hands moved to frame her face. “Then why are you ashamed?” “Because I could’ve walked away at any time without harm,” she said, wiping away tears. “But I stayed and played his game to save what is left of my pack.” 113

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“Just how far did this game go?” She took a deep breath. “I took off my top and unbuttoned my pants to tease him into frenzy. He had me pinned on the floor, but as soon as he spilled his secret I rolled out from under him and he…well he spilled more than his secrets.” “He was lying over you unclothed?” Booker raised his voice. “No! When he sat up to unzip his pants, I rolled away. He’d just given up his secret and expected to mate right away so I had to do some fast talking to fend him off. And I seemed to have talked him into a premature climax. After that he backed off until the ceremony.” With a softer slant, he summarized his take on the situation. “He didn’t kiss you. His lips never touched your sex. You had no skin-on-skin contact other than with hands.” His gaze swept over her face while lightly brushing her hair back. “And you managed to poison him, call out to me and still have the presence of mind to get your comrades out of harm’s way.” “You make it sound so much better than it felt.” Turning his head slightly, he lit a smoke while giving her a sideward look. “We’re not done. But I imagine you had to endure one hell of a lot to beat Stoke at his game. We had a visit from Garret. He’s been victimized by Black Star for years. He was supposed to keep Stoke informed of our whereabouts so they could get to you.” “Garret was Stoke’s informant?” “That’s what Stoke thought, but Garret turned it around.” “I know…I just didn’t know who. Stoke sounded very angry and now I know why he was surprised to see me at Club Heaven that night.” She went on to fill them in on her conversations with Stoke and everything she’d uncovered about Paige’s motives as well. 114

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When she’d finished talking, she glanced at Rider who revealed scant emotion. He seemed to be giving Booker the lead in this matter. “You’re still the hellcat I snatched off the street in New York.” Booker’s voice carried little compassion “You rebelled against me and forced my hand. Then you got into a situation that took you in over your head. Had you not called out to us, Stoke might have won.” Zoe hung her head. “I know.” “Don’t look away from me.” He placed a hand under her chin. “Had you given us some time, we may have been able to flush him out in a less threatening manner. You carry my child and you’re our queen yet you risked it all to save your clan. Tell me, angel…do I mean as much to you as they do?” “More,” she replied. Another glimpse at Rider indicated he shared Booker’s confliction. His thoughts came through clearly, making her feel awful for giving them reason to doubt her loyalty toward them. However, Booker had made a valid point. She’d placed her sisters over her life-mates in this case by going after Stoke without a solid plan. “Make no mistake we are thrilled that you prevailed, but your overconfidence was almost your undoing.” He kept her locked in intense eye contact. “What Rider said is true. Your heart leads us. Remember when we discussed why a clan seeks out to steal the queen?” She nodded. “The chess game—a queen has more power and is the heart of the king.” “While you do have a deeper connection to the spirit world and possess rare gifts, you must learn to exhibit patience. And also consider the hearts you’re dragging around when you run off on these impulsive missions.” “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to dismiss your feelings.” Her gaze shifted between both men. “I’m sorry.” 115

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Booker appeared distressed as he mounted his bike. Zoe climbed on hers with less enthusiasm than usual. Her mate had just scolded her in his calm yet no-nonsense style and it didn’t feel good.

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Chapter Eight

“T

hanks for lending me your jacket.” Zoe handed Rider’s back to him while they waited at the corner for her clan. He gave her a nod, but didn’t speak. She didn’t know how to bridge the tension between them. For now, she could do nothing but finish this war. No doubt Black Star riders had settled in since the sun had inched higher into a blue sky. She’d become aware of their routine during her stay. Once her comrades arrived, they’d swoop in with the weapons they’d been preparing for the past hour. It had been a painstaking task expressing the fish oil, then filling plastic syringes with their blood and reloading them into the pressurized guns. “Are we going to get past this?” She looked up at Booker who sat parked beside her. “Somehow.” He sighed and behind the anguish in those gorgeous eyes shone the love. “I won’t take a back seat to your comrades…ever…because you have always been my number one.” At a loss for words, she shifted her weight and looked down. Rumbling from a group of motorcycles dispelled the tense moment. They watched from a secluded grove of willowy trees as the last Black Star riders returned to their nest. Shortly thereafter, Erin fronted the nineteen riders behind her. They appeared very happy to see Zoe. She 117

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greeted them, but held back somewhat, feeling guilty over her indiscretion. Erin slid off her bike and sauntered over. “So, are we going to kick some Black Star ass?” “We are,” Booker replied. “But you…” He pointed to the other members. “And they are going to secure the area to be sure none escape.” “How are the three of you going to take out an entire compound?” Erin challenged. “Why can’t we come in?” “Most of them are already dead. We need only finish off the stragglers, but I don’t want any of them slipping away. I don’t need the worry of more lives right now. There may be a few men still armed inside.” Rider passed out the weapons. “If you see anyone trying to escape, fire these and don’t miss. There’s only one dart in each gun.” “What’s in them?” Erin eyed the rifle with evident curiosity. “Blood.” Booker told her. “I suggest ten soldiers at each end of town. There is only one road in and out of this hellhole.” Clearly unhappy, Erin frowned and glanced at Zoe, then retreated to her bike. Zoe watched her comrades take up their positions. “Leave your bike and ride with me.” His tone of voice left no room for objection. Zoe hopped on behind him and they rolled down the dirt street with Rider at their side. Except for the growl of the engines, eerie quiet loomed over the town. She followed him as he stalked straight up to Stoke’s domain after they’d parked the bikes. Rider took up behind her. Two armed vampires stood guard at the front door. Why they felt the need to stay at their post baffled Zoe. Almost everyone in their clan had been killed. Unless they had a 118

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ritualistic obligation to protect the ashes, she saw no reason for them to remain on watch. Booker raised both arms, holding a gun in each one and fired before either enemy could get a shot off. Barely a sound could be heard from the quiet weapons as the darts took out their targets. He stopped to reload while Rider moved ahead, keeping Zoe in the middle. She picked up the two loaded rifles dropped by the guards as they passed the bodies. Moving stealthily through the house, the three of them took out straggling Black Star riders in the same fashion. Booker and Rider would alternate when one needed to reload and Zoe remained tucked between them collecting the extra weapons lest they encounter more opposition than expected. Once the ground floor had been searched and secured, they crept upstairs. Zoe took a deep breath to calm her nerves. How will they feel in Stoke’s den, where he’d exhibited commanding power over her? Will my mates pick up offensive scents? What will their reaction be when they see his bed? She swallowed against the dryness of her throat as they neared the last room on the upper level. Booker was in front when they entered. He stopped and she saw his gaze sweep the room, then halt at the bed. “Is that where it all took place?” “No, that’s where Paige slept. I stayed in the chair.” She pointed to the fancy chaise beside the window. “This room reeks of filth.” He scowled. Rider placed a hand on his shoulder. “Keep your cool, man. Let’s keep moving.” At that moment Zoe felt extremely grateful for Rider’s even temperament. Though no vampires lurked in the evil felt there, Booker pulled out his lighter and lit the candelabras, then tossed them onto the bed. His actions delivered an odd sense of closure and she watched—captivated by the hungry flames 119

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as they rose to a furious blaze. “C’mon.” He edged her toward the door. “We need to check the basement before the house goes.” They hurried down the steps, then descended the wooden stairs to the ceremonial room where the main action had occurred. Zoe gasped when they entered—covering her mouth in shock at what skulked before their eyes. Hovering over the ashes nearest the bed—the alter Stoke had prepared for her sacrifice—was a ghastly creature fanning huge wings. “What the fuck is that?” Rider muttered. Booker shook his head. “Whatever it is won’t be around long.” He fired two darts straight into the beast’s head. Shrieking as she’d never heard before filled the massive area and resounded off the walls. “It’s not dying!” she cried out. Rider shot two more while Booker reloaded. Still the beast didn’t falter. The second round of ammunition only seemed to anger it more. “Kill the fucking thing!” She ducked as it swooped past her head. “We’re trying,” Booker dropped to the floor and took aim at its underbelly as it made another pass. “Fuck…I missed the damn thing.” Zoe tossed him two guns. “Try again.” Rider had reloaded and successfully plugged two more darts into the head. More high-pitched wailing reverberated throughout the room yet the ghastly creature remained undaunted. With a slow turn of its head, the most terrifying eyes Zoe had have seen peered at her. “It wants me…” she stated in a flat tone. Feeling hypnotized, she simply stared frozen in one spot. Her arms fell to her side and the extra rifles hit the floor. Then before she regained presence of mind, a huge shadow fell over her 120

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as the beast swung down in a flash. A scream rose in her throat as she felt herself lift off the floor. “Help me! Kill this thing!” Everything began to blur. Distant voices filled with panic floated over her. Then she was falling, falling—until her body plummeted onto the bed. Closing her eyes, she tried to block out the horror, suddenly aware of the creature’s intent. Stoke may have failed to achieve a mating, but his sentinel planned to finish the job. Her heart sank. There’s no way my mates can save me now. I’ve made a dreadful mistake. **** “We didn’t come prepared for this.” For the second time in his life Booker experienced fear. Rider stayed close as they approached the bed. “How many darts do you have left?” “Two.” “Same here. We need to stick the fucker right in the heart using all four at the same time.” Booker shot him a look. “How the hell do you know that?” “Do you have a better idea?” “No, but this better work. We need to get right on top of that thing.” Booker led the way. “Oh shit, it smells putrid.” “Don’t think about that…just keep moving.” Booker kept his eyes on the creature as it hung suspended in air over Zoe while slowly waving the massive wings. “It wants to mate her, fucking hell…where did it come from?” They inched closer as the beast dropped lower and lower toward the bed. Booker glanced at Rider who appeared about as terror-stricken as he felt. Zoe lay seemingly unconscious on the bed—no doubt she’d fainted from fright. 121

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Without a sound, he continued advancing and working his way toward the front, Rider covered his back. “Oh my god,” Rider muttered in open disgust when they viewed the beast face-to-face. Red eyes stared back at them, sending a wave of panic over Booker. This thing meant business and he feared Zoe would be lost if their last four darts failed. “Ready?” Booker cast him a sideward glance. “Aim…” Rider lifted his guns. Without breaking eye contact with the beast, Booker said low and steady, “Fire.” A slight whoosh of air preceded a thud as all four darts impaled its chest. Instantly the monster tumbled backward long enough for them to reach in and grab Zoe. Booker placed her over his shoulder and they sprinted toward the door, then he looked back. “It’s gone.” Rider stopped suddenly. “Where did it go?” “Don’t know, but let’s get the hell out of here. The whole place is gonna blow.” Taking the steps two at a time, they raced upstairs and managed to weave their way past fallen beams and rubble while running through the flames. Once outside and clear of the house, both turned to watch. Fire poured from the windows, looking like lava running down the outer walls. A few minutes later a titanic explosion shook the ground and knocked them off their feet. Booker protected Zoe from hitting the ground by shielding her body with his. The sudden jolt brought her around and she released the most blood-curdling scream he’d ever heard. “It’s okay.” He wrapped his arms around her as she struggled to break free. “You’re safe…angel, you’re safe.” He laid over her in the dirt. She gasped and looked around in sheer panic. “Where are 122

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we?” “Outside.” He brushed tangled hair from her face. “It’s over.” “That thing…” Her chest heaved beneath him as she struggled to catch her breath. “It was neither human nor creature…it was a spirit of some sort and going to mate, oh god…” She broke into tears. “It was going to mate with me supernaturally…like, like…an incubus.” Rider crawled to their side, covered in grime, then dropped into his back breathing heavily. “Stoke is the worst type of vampire. I fear that our blood merely shifted him into his unearthly form.” “We almost lost you.” Booker stared down at her and suddenly his earlier upset faded away as gratitude took its place. “Angel eyes…thank God you’re alive. I should’ve never doubted your light.” Tears brimmed her beautiful eyes as she gazed up at him—unconditional love shining in those dark blue depths. His lips found hers for the first time since her rescue and he inwardly chided himself for not kissing her earlier. She’d obviously been through a new kind of hell and had still taken a stand to deliver the lethal blow to Stoke. He felt like a cad for giving in to foolish jealousy. And here she lay, most likely still in shock yet returning his kiss with astounding passion. They wrapped around each other and kissed deeply—as they should’ve when he’d found her in that makeshift dungeon. He felt eternally grateful for her love. Reluctantly he eased their lips apart when what he wanted to do was lie there and kiss her for hours on end. “I love you,” she murmured. “Ah, baby…I love you, too. I’m sorry for behaving like a jealous bastard.” “You had a right…I did things…” A runaway tear slid 123

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down the side of her soot-smudged face. He pressed a gentle finger to her lips. “Sshh…no…it’s over and I realize now how powerful that prick was to have acquired a demonic guardian. I am amazed that you held him off as you did and still got him to talk.” She offered him a weak smile. “I told you I’d seduce his weakness straight from his filthy mouth. But you were right, I was in over my head. We had entered a dangerous game of seduction and he almost beat me.” “Almost doesn’t count.” He smiled to try and cheer her up a bit. Rider slid closer. His consideration had not gone unnoticed. Booker reached out and clasped a forearm with him. “Thanks for hanging back to let me sort matters.” “Hey, you’re my brother and she’s the love of our life.” He rolled onto his side. “I knew you two would work through it.” Zoe looked up and reached out for Rider. He leaned forward and kissed her sweetly, his lips lingering on hers with open affection. “I really missed you guys.” Approaching footsteps drew their attention to the side. Through the smoke strode Erin and her two closest comrades, Lexie and Lacy. She stared down at them with open curiosity. “Are you going to be all right, Zoe?” “Yeah, I’ll be just fine. We had a rather unusual battle this time.” Erin tilted her head with sparkling green eyes. “Was Stoke still alive?” “No,” Zoe wrinkled her brows. “Why would you think that?” “We weren’t exactly given many details upon our arrival 124

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and by the looks of things it seems you three killed a real vampire in there.” Booker didn’t like her comment. She wore her lust like a badge for all to see. While Erin had never given him any reason to question her loyalty, he found her infatuation with Zoe disturbing at times—especially her desire to spy on their sexual activity. Also, the woman had panted after Rider when they’d first met. Her overzealous approach toward vampirism raised a few red flags. He made a mental note to keep a closer eye on this one. “We are real vampires,” Zoe countered. “What we stumbled upon in there was something beyond a vampire…it was pure evil and these two brave souls took on the beast and saved me.” “Did you catch any riders making an escape?” Booker asked. Erin nodded yet seemed disappointed. “Just one and we took him down, but not before having a bit of fun with him first.” Booker felt the hairs on his neck prickle. This one is dangerous. “Can we get out of here?” Zoe caressed his face with a delicate touch. He closed his eyes briefly and covered her hand with his, relishing the touch of his angel. Placing a kiss on her palm, his eyes met hers. “Yeah, are you strong enough to ride?” A graceful smile touched her face, radiating pure light. “I better be.” **** “Do it.” Zoe stared at him without flinching while submerged in a tub full of water. 125

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Bathing was the first thing she’d wanted to do to remove Stoke’s touch once they’d checked into the hotel. “I could not detect his scent on you, strange as it is.” Booker sat on the edge. “I don’t want to cause you unnecessary pain. It’s a miracle you survived and the baby is unharmed.” “Just do it.” Her gaze went to Rider. “Cleanse me with your blood.” She had sent her clothes to the dumpster and slid straight into a bath of warm water wearing only the gold neck chain and amulet. They exchanged wary glances, then obeyed her wish. Watching as they made deep cuts in their palms, she mentally prepared herself to feel the blistering pain when the blood of her mates touched her skin. Regardless, her heart could not feel at peace until absolutely certain every trace of Stoke had been removed from her body. Booker appeared tremendously worried as he held out his flattened palm. Rider seemed equally uneasy. Nevertheless they allowed their blood to drip into the bath. Closing her eyes, Zoe drew a deep breath and slid completely underwater submerging her head. About two minutes passed and she had to come up for air. “Did you let enough blood run into the water? I didn’t feel any pain.” Her mates sat perched on the tub’s edge looking rather awestruck. “What?” Her gaze shifted between them. Rider pointed to her neck. “The blood…it’s swirling toward the amulet.” Zoe looked down, then touched the gold pendant at her breasts. As their blood trickled into the water, the amulet drew it like a magnet. She gasped in astonishment. “You are covered by the blood of our clan.” Booker 126

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sounded mystified. “That must be why I couldn’t smell him on you.” Her thoughts flashed back to when she’d been taken down to the lower level. “After my fight with Paige—” “You fought with Paige?” Rider asked with lifted brows. “Yeah…she attacked me. I was about to kill her when two guards burst in and dragged me downstairs. They chained me to Stoke’s chair and left. His offensive stench made me physically ill. I dozed off and…” She paused, thinking back. “I forgot about this, so much had happened. But while in that twilight sleep I heard a voice say, Rest, my child, tonight you will prevail. I remember checking to be sure I hadn’t lost my necklace in the fight. And while caressing the pendant it kind of lulled me to sleep.” Booker dipped his hand into the water to feel the charm. “You truly have an amazing connection to the spirits that guard.” “When I woke up, Stoke was touching my face and I thought it strange that his scent didn’t bother me or that I couldn’t even smell it anymore.” “Mom’s journal mentioned that the talisman carried special powers, but didn’t specify,” Rider added. “She clearly sought to protect you before going in by coming to you again.” Kneeling beside the bathtub, Booker gazed at her with sincere eyes. “I am humbled by this phenomenon.” Zoe smiled, elated to be safe and with her mates. “And I am grateful. I wasn’t looking forward to the painful bath. Now I can rest assured that his stain did not taint me and I had been covered by your blood.” Rider placed a tender kiss on her forehead. “And you always will be.” They helped her from the bath and wrapped a plush robe around her. The luxury hotel was a welcome change from 127

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the previous places she’d been slumming in. “I told Erin to meet me here.” “Why?” Disapproval flitted through Booker’s eyes. “I was hoping to share time here with you before returning home.” “Don’t worry, my love.” She placed a loving hand on his cheek. “I’m sending her home and I’m also going to tell her that I’ve decided to move.” “You have?” His expression lightened. “Yes. I agree with you about Erin becoming too attached. I want to assure you that nobody and I mean nobody comes before either of you.” Booker swept her into his arms, kissing the top of her head. “Where would you like to go? I don’t seek to take you away from them, just a little space, sugar.” “Anywhere you want is fine with me. The pack is very well established out here as you’d said before. I will happily go wherever you and Rider want to take me.” Rider came up from behind, sliding his arms about her waist. “Baby doll.” He sighed, laying his head on her shoulder. “I’m so happy to hear this.” His response surprised her. She had no idea he’d shared Booker’s strong feelings on this matter. Everything around her felt significantly brighter now that she’d pleased them. “Hi, Erin, c’mon in.” Zoe closed the door behind her. “Has everyone found a place to stay before heading home?” “Yeah, we’re going to rest a bit, then head out after dark.” Erin made an obvious observation of the luxury accommodations. “Nice hotel. Are you leaving at dark?” “No, we may ride up to LA tomorrow and look around.” Zoe took a seat on an oversized sofa, then motioned for Erin to join her. “I need to speak with you about future plans.” “Hey, babe,” Rider interrupted. “We’re gonna check on the bikes and Booker here needs a smoke.” 128

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Zoe nodded with a grateful smile, appreciating their respect to give her some privacy. “Zoe, he is so hot. Tell me, what’s it like to bed such a man?” “Erin! I don’t discuss my intimate life with others. I’ve never even shared those details with Paige.” “Oh, sorry, couldn’t help myself. I get excited just looking at them—I mean him.” She giggled. “So what did you want to talk about?” “I’m going to relocate, but you needn’t worry, Booker said the clan may live in the house and he’ll cover taxes and insurance.” Zoe reached out to touch her hand. “I’m sure you and the others make enough money to pay utilities and support yourselves. I know some of those chapters sold well. There should be more than enough in the community reserve to keep everyone quite comfortable if some haven’t yet found work.” “You’re leaving us?” Erin rejected her friendly gesture, becoming more upset than Zoe expected. “Not leaving…I’d never leave the pack. We’re simply relocating.” “Why?” Erin demanded. “You seemed perfectly happy up there. It’s Booker, isn’t it? He wants to take you away from us.” “No, not at all. The house is too crowded now. It’s great for the clan, but surely you don’t expect me and my two mates to cohabitate with twenty women. That would create utter chaos.” “You’ve changed since meeting Booker. The old Zoe would hang with us and ride the highways every night.” Zoe sat back and studied her for a moment. “I am bound to my mates. They do come first. However, I will never neglect the needs of my pack. It’s very hard balancing the two relationships and I’m doing the best I can.” 129

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They sat in awkward silence for a while before Erin finally responded. “I know you are, Zoe, and I love you. I’d do anything to help you. It seems to me that Booker has started calling all the shots.” Erin’s mood softened and she took her hand. “This is exactly why Night Brigade wanted to remain all female, to avoid controlling men.” “He’s not controlling me, Erin. I love him…I love them both very much. Look what they’ve given us—a home where we can be together, protection and immortality. How can you not see that the good outweighs any small loss of independence we’ve incurred?” Erin smiled at last. “Don’t worry, hon’, Booker will come around and you’ll be back living with us in no time. Now tell me, what was it like being held hostage in a real vampire den?” Her sudden switch took Zoe off guard. “I-I’d rather not talk about it.” “The buzz among the pack is that you and Stoke tried to seduce each other.” “How did a buzz get started?” A naughty glimmer flickered in Erin’s green eyes. “The Black Star rider that tried to escape did some talking while we played with him.” Zoe leaned forward with keen interest. “What do you mean…played with him?” “Well, it got boring waiting so we fucked the hell out of him before finishing him off. I don’t think a man ever died happier.” She laughed. “He begged for it over and over so a few of us took turns. He didn’t come until I rode him hard…damn, those vampires have a lot of stamina. You must be one happy woman to have two gorgeous immortals in your bed.” “Did you permit him to bite you?” She dismissed Erin’s 130

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last comment and masked her shock with a look of concern. “Hell no, I’d never let a lower level male drink my blood. Though after fucking me, he did beg for a taste, but I turned him down.” Aghast at her comrade’s actions, she asked, “Did he feed on any of our women?” With the recent revelation of Stoke’s deep malevolence, she held concern over how a bite from any Black Star member might affect another being. The likelihood that a bite from his clan had the power to transform mortals sprung to mind. “No, Zoe. Until a proper mate of equal standing comes along, I’ll gladly give him a roll, but not my blood. The others feel the same. Besides, we can’t convert anyone—too bad, I wouldn’t mind acquiring a vampire male of my own. Mortal men must drink Booker and Rider’s blood to become one of us, right?” “That’s correct. Still, it’s not good practice to allow anyone except a carefully selected mate feed on you.” Slightly relieved, yet knowing of Erin’s lusty appetite Zoe dreaded her next question. “Did you feed on him before killing him with the dart?” Erin looked away. “This is a beautiful suite. Your men sure put you up nicely.” “Erin? Answer the question.” “Just a little…” Then she released a sardonic laugh. “Okay, a lot. I was starving. We had been held up in that small motel and I hadn’t had fresh blood in days. No big deal though, I’ve fed on plenty of men, why would this one be any different? I suffered no ill effects from the feed.” “You’ve never fed on another vampire. Or have you?” Zoe felt an uncomfortable knot form in her stomach. “Not that I know of. Don’t worry, I feel fine.” She patted Zoe’s leg. “You rest and let me worry about the pack. I’ll get them home safely and we’ll see you when you return, won’t 131

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we?” The conversation felt like a game of pinball—zigzagging all over the place. Zoe walked with Erin to the door as she seemed ready to leave. She inhaled deeply when Erin hugged her and didn’t detect any strange scent. Hopefully Erin’s lack of self-control hadn’t compromised her wellbeing.

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Chapter Nine

“S

he’s always been a wild one,” Rider said as they lounged around the television. “I couldn’t settle her long enough for a decent chat. The woman wanted to jump me.” Booker nodded in agreement. “I’ve sensed her increased lust as well. We need to keep an eye on that one.” “I know Erin is wild and lusty, but I can’t see her betraying us as Paige did. I think she’s having trouble adjusting to the new power flowing through her.” Zoe filled them in on her conversation with Erin, then added, “I don’t think she accepted that I am moving. She seems to be in denial.” “We’ll have a chance to see if she’s calmed down when we return.” Booker grabbed her legs and swung them onto his lap. “But can we forget about her for now? I’ve missed you.” “Of course.” She pulled him down for a kiss. “You have no idea how I missed you guys.” “They have a hot tub in this suite.” Rider gave her a spirited wink. “How about it?” “Hey…” She laughed while springing off the couch. “I can be undressed before you.” They slid into the warm, bubbly water lightly scented with jasmine oil. Zoe could barely keep up with them as her two mates moved in kissing and stroking her. No sooner did 133

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her mouth leave Rider’s than Booker’s tongue slid between her lips, seeking—hungrily exploring with intense affection. She sighed as they fluently moved about in the soothing water, their bodies sliding together as she took turns kissing each man. Rider raised her to the surface supporting her with ease as she arched her back to receive his ravenous mouth at her breasts. “Oh yes…” She moaned when his warm mouth covered one aroused nipple, then the other. He sucked and teased until the ache between her thighs rose to an unbearable throb. She felt Booker’s hands support her bottom as he knelt in the tub, keeping her afloat as his teeth grazed her stomach, then dipped lower. His wet hair fell over her thighs and his tongue slid into her sex. Rider eased into position beside him until both were kneeling between her legs. The water made it easy for her to stay afloat, requiring very little effort. With her hands gently holding the sides of the tub, she relaxed when they spread her thighs. “How would you like some double tongue action, baby doll?” Rider purred. He didn’t wait for her response before diving in. A soft cry of immense pleasure rose in her throat as two hot long tongues began lapping and warm moist mouths sucked the delicate now pulsing flesh. One swept up the center, plunging deep between the folds while the other circled and licked her clit. The experience was wild and uninhibited as eager tongues swept over every inch of her sex, stimulating her beyond belief. “You’re making me crazy,” she panted, but lifted her hips for more. “Yes…oh yes, don’t stop…please.” Feral groans rumbled in their chests and the ravenous feeding intensified as a tongue stroked her G-spot and lips clamped over the throbbing bud above her opening. Her 134

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body began to shake. Using the water to her advantage, she spread her legs wide to give her mates ample room. Their undeniable hunger for her sex was thrilling and she basked in the indescribable sensation of them feasting together. Suddenly her body erupted into a climax, igniting their appetites to an even higher level. “Ah yeah.” Booker lifted his head and she realized it had been his amazing tongue deep inside. His eyes met hers. “You taste so good…we’re going to keep you coming until every luscious drop has been sucked from your sweet pussy.” She gazed at him through misty eyes with a submissive nod, understanding his need to dominate after all that had transpired. Her head dropped back as she succumbed to the wicked spasms coursing through her. Her mates began alternating. Rider raised her sex to his mouth while Booker supported her back. “Mm, sweet, sweet thing,” Rider murmured against her thigh. “Give it up for your man now.” He buried his face between her thighs making her writhe and moan. Booker caressed her body with a loving touch, sweeping large hands over her arms, shoulders, breasts and stomach while kissing her lips. They merged into a heady kiss, tongues seeking and tasting one another’s. All the while she shuddered with multiple orgasms. “Your turn.” Rider licked his lips, staring down at her with smoldering dark eyes. His mouth covered hers filling it with his tongue and the heady taste of sex sent a rush of heat through her. Gripping his tangled curls, she tugged him closer for a deeper kiss. He groaned in response fervently indulging her desire. Again, she received the pleasure of her dominant male gorging on her sex with his powerful tongue. Greedily he sucked as wave upon wave of euphoria washed over her. 135

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Rider eased back, teasing her nipples with skilled fingers, using the tips to send shockwaves of excitement to her core. “Coming hard, doll?” He flashed a mischievous grin. “Fuck yes.” Her words tumbled out on a quivering sigh. “You like us drinking in your sweet essence together?” he whispered in a tone so seductive it induced a flood of warmth from her core. “Are you aching to feel our hard cocks deep, deep inside…stroking…throbbing…filling you with heat as we come all night long?” Biting her lower lip, she whimpered and a surge of liquid gushed from her sex. Booker released a fierce groan, grinding his mouth against her now and tugging wildly at the swollen flesh. He was clearly losing control and Rider continued muttering the things they would do throughout the night. She licked her lips—her throat felt dry. “You’re hungry,” he said with a wink, then boldly licked her lips. “Would you like to feed on me while my brother keeps you coming?” Zoe responded with an urgent nod. He gave her an easy smile with heavy eyes before baring his neck for her. The impulse to cry out was almost overpowering as his blood spurted into her mouth, hydrating her parched throat and warming her stomach. He tasted good. So very good. Greedily she drank, taking her fill of his sensual blood until her hunger had been slaked. “Damn, babe,” he muttered with glassy eyes. “My cock is harder than ever. You have a kickass bite.” He guided her hand to his erection which indeed felt rock-hard. “Oh I want you…both of you inside me more than anything right now.” Booker slithered up her body. His heated gaze stole her breath moments before he kissed her hard, then eased into a tender, delicious exchange that brought tears to her eyes. All the love in his fiery soul came pouring out to her and she 136

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grasped how awful it must’ve been for him lately. Her arms curled around his neck, kissing him back with everything inside and returning his affection with ardor. Lifting her into an upright position, he moved his hands into her hair as they remained engaged in passionate kissing. She couldn’t feel close enough to this amazing vampire stud who possessed nerves of steel and a heart of glass that he kept carefully hidden. Reaching below the water’s surface, she took his sex, fully engorged and ready to mate, into her hand, then guided it between her thighs. Teasingly she rubbed the head over her clit, causing him to sigh and suck in a sharp breath. He permitted her to play for a bit before thrusting his full length deep inside. Throwing her head back, she gasped and cried out. Rider stroked her hair while supporting her head as Booker’s lips dropped to her neck, then she felt his teeth nibbling— seeking. He bit down hard, holding her body tightly as his cock swelled and stretched her. She screamed his name followed by a long, slow moan. By now her body had defied human logic with more orgasms than she dreamed possible and undoubtedly more to come. His eyes met hers when he’d finished feeding, shimmering blue with a hazy glaze of passion. “Angel eyes…” His voice so much softer than expected in this heightened aggressive state. “I’ll never let you go. I wanna make love to you again and again.” “I love you, baby.” Overcome by emotion, her eyes burned with tears. “I’m so hard. I need to come before the three of us can mate and feed all night…I’m about to lose it any minute now.” He paused with a ragged breath as if straining to hold back. “You’re sex is so tight and hot…everything about you turns me on.” 137

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“Ohhh…I long to feel your release.” She began gliding up and down on his cock. “Take me, baby.” Rider laid her back and held her afloat while Booker took a firm hold of her hips and began pumping into her. She found it very easy to drape her legs over his bent arms in this seemingly weightless environment. Her gaze traveled downward in a leisurely manner, watching his biceps flex as he held her and thrust at the same time. His bare chest glistened and tight abs rippled in the water. Mercy! He is so gorgeous! She gazed at Rider who gave her a wink. Kneeling coolly, he looked every bit as magnificent. Dark mocha spirals cascaded in a luscious wave over his muscular arms and chest. A light trail of hair led from sexy pecs downward to a sexy love trail above his impressive erection. “Fuck…” Booker tensed. “Ah, baby, baby.” He groaned with closed eyes as his cock jerked forcefully inside, shooting a stream of hot semen into her core. “Oh that feels amazing.” She clutched his hair. Her body responded to his in blissful release. Their lips met in heated desire, groping madly until the climax subsided. When they calmed, Zoe glanced up to find Rider staring down with hungry eyes. “I’m not sure what’s hotter…fucking you or watching you get fucked.” Rider sighed with open need. “Well we can continue without you if you’d rather remain a spectator,” she teased with an airy laugh, still somewhat breathless over the intense sex. He eased her into an upright position. “I don’t think so.” “Then you better come on board before your brother steals the show again.” She felt Booker’s hard cock already throbbing for more action. Rider moved into a stance behind. “Mm, you’re such a wicked vamp.” He bit at her ear while sliding his massive 138

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cock in alongside Booker’s. “I can’t wait to taste your blood.” His soft growl made her tingle. Though she enjoyed both males immensely in single mating, nothing compared to the sensation of having them penetrate her at the same time. Drawing a jagged breath, she prepared herself for a night of ecstasy with her vampire mates—longing to feel their seed flood her aching sex over and over as together they enjoyed nonstop orgasms. “You both feel deliciously ready.” “Oh we’re more than ready, angel,” Booker said with a sexy wink that sent shivers up her arms. “Are you?”

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About the Author Storm grew up on a farm in the rural country of Western Pennsylvania. From the age of seven and well into her adult years she worked as a farmhand: tending livestock, working the fields, riding and training horses and caring for stray dogs her mom would bring home. In addition to her duties at home, she worked as a nursing assistant during her teen years and attended college for Food Service Management after graduating high school. She later left the nursing field to work as a cook until marrying her husband of twenty-five years. Today, she and her husband share their home with three Maltese. Having been involved in animal rescue for over a decade, she had at one time, nine dogs in her home. “Animals are the most loyal companions I have ever known,” she says. Some who know her say Storm is a “dog whisperer”. However, when asked about these claims, Storm replies, “I don’t know about that. I just know how to communicate with animals, I’m not a psychic. I’ve always had a knack for helping troubled animals.” After losing her therapy dog in July 2011, she suffered a major setback. With the support of loving friends and family, and a special Maltese named, Cuppycake, she found her way back to writing and believes that her beloved Austin is still lighting her way. She has been writing her way into other worlds since grade school and took that gift into adulthood. A lifelong fascination with vampires—she enjoys penning wild tales of the unknown and creating stories of romance and vampires…with heat!