duck fart

Jade Buchanan

Keith Malone is incredibly content. He loves coming around Del Fantasma… great food, great company, and a decent place to rest his soul when he needs it. Plus, it doesn't hurt that Cody lets him dust off his carpenter skills with the odd job here and there. Bailey Mitchell is incredibly nervous. He's come all this way to San Diego, following up on a chance encounter that happened months earlier, and now he doesn't know what to do. One glance and it's obvious Adam's already taken. What's a lonely Siamese shifter to do? Drake McKale is incredibly grouchy. He's sick and tired of every shifter he's run across making fun of him. Hey, duck's have feelings too! So what if he's smaller than everyone else? Spoiling for a fight he can actually win, he decides to pick on the shy, little kitty in the corner. Only, Drake never reckoned the diminutive cat would proposition him. Or that the big human in the corner would want in on the action. One part burly human, one part shy Siamese shifter and one part twinky (and kinky) duck shifter… layer together and enjoy!

Del Fantasma: Duck Fart

Del Fantasma:

Duck Fart Jade Buchanan

Aspen Mountain Press

Jade Buchanan

Del Fantasma: Duck Fart Copyright © 2010 by Jade Buchanan This e-Book is a work of fiction. While references may be made to actual places or events, the names, characters, incidents, and locations within are from the author’s imagination and are not a resemblance to actual living or dead persons, businesses, or events. Any similarity is coincidental.

Aspen Mountain Press 18121-C E. Hampden Ave, Ste 221 Aurora CO 80013 www.AspenMountainPress.com

First published by Aspen Mountain Press, February 2010 www.AspenMountainPress.com This e-Book is licensed to the original purchaser only. Duplication or distribution via any means is illegal and a violation of International Copyright Law, subject to criminal prosecution and upon conviction fines and/or imprisonment. The e-Book cannot be legally loaned or given to others. No part of this e-Book can be shared or reproduced without the express permission of the publisher. All rights reserved. ISBN: 978-1-60168-275-8 Published in the United States of America Editor: Nikita Gordyn Cover artist: Nikita Gordyn

Del Fantasma: Duck Fart Dedication

This one's for Jo, for giving me the idea in the first place. Next time I'm in your neck of the woods, we are so having a Duck Fart together!

Jade Buchanan

Chapter One

“Oh, baby, you like that? Huh? Do ya, big boy? You make me so hot. Yeah, baby—“ “Okay, that’s not working for me. Try it again.” Bailey looked around, making sure he was still alone in the parking lot outside Del Fantasma. Though he was in a parked car with the windows rolled up, he knew how sensitive supernatural hearing was. He didn’t care to be interrupted right now. He’d probably die of embarrassment if someone overheard them. He cleared his throat. “Oh, baby, you like that? Do you like—” “I can tell you aren’t into it.” “Man, Sally. Of course I’m not into it. This is embarrassing!” His childhood friend laughed, a huge guffaw that nearly burst his eardrum. He held the phone away from him. “You need to practice if you expect to win Adam. The boy’s been there for how long now? You think he’s still innocent? I hear those folk out in California move fast. You need something to compel him.” Bailey shook his head, pinching the bridge of his nose with his free hand. “I’m pretty sure my ability to dirty talk is not going to score any points. Besides, you’re forgetting that I still need to get close enough to him in order to actually do the talking dirty part. I can’t just open with that. I’m sure I sound stupid. Are you sure that’s what he’ll like? Why am I asking you anyway? It’s not like you’ve ever been with a guy.”

Del Fantasma: Duck Fart “Yeah, but I’ve seen way more porn than you have, buddy, and I’m positive that’s how they sound.” “Wait, you’re going off of porn?” he whispered, scandalized. Suddenly, Bailey straightened in his seat, swinging his head to the left. Were those headlights turning in here? Oh my God, they were. He covered the mouthpiece of the phone, whispering behind his hand. “I have to go, Sal. Someone’s coming.” “What?” she screamed. “Jesus, Sal. Keep it down. I’ll talk to you later.” He snapped his cell shut, stuffing it into his jacket pocket. Straightening his jacket, he peered anxiously at the big truck that pulled in two spots away from him. The man who stepped out of the truck just about had Bailey swallowing his tongue. Jeez, he had to be a bear shifter. The man was simply massive. Tall, and muscled under the stretched white tee and scuffed blue jeans. Work boots covered his feet. Bailey considered them, wondering what size shoe the bear had to wear. He shuffled his own size eights clad in sensible loafers. He wouldn’t match up with him, even with his preternatural speed. Cats just didn’t stack up among the supernatural elite that gathered here. It was the one thing Sally had coached him on over and over. Well, before she started in on the whole dirty talk thing. He knew he was about to walk into a lion’s den in there. Almost literally, actually. He was pretty sure she mentioned something about a lion shifter that roamed these parts. He knew there were werewolves and vampires aplenty. Heck, even Cody—who ran the place—was a vampire. It just about had Bailey sweating in his dress shirt and pressed jeans. Maybe he should take the jacket off. But, if he did that, then he’d probably look like a dork in the sweater vest he’d pulled on by accident. Well, okay, it wasn’t by accident, but he hadn’t been thinking and he’d just pulled on the first thing his fingers touched. It wasn’t like he had anything else in his closet. Maybe he should have gone shopping. Should he have gone shopping?

Jade Buchanan Taking a deep breath, trying not to hyperventilate before he even entered the place, Bailey repeated Sally’s mantra to himself, straightening his shoulders. “You’ll be fine. He’ll love you. This will all be worth it.” Right, he’d be fine. Never mind that he’d just travelled halfway across the country chasing after a guy he’d had a crush on for the longest time. Never mind that all he and Adam had done before Adam had left was kiss. Never mind the fact that the kiss was responsible for Adam having to leave after they were caught by Adam’s dad. Jeez, he was about to start hyperventilating again. What if Adam didn’t want him? What was he supposed to do? Everyone knew he’d come out here after Adam. Sally didn’t exactly have the quietest voice and they had been sitting in a restaurant when he confided his plan to her. Bailey shook his head again, determined. It was now or never. He knew that Adam had taken a job working at Del Fantasma, Sally had been able to get that much information out of Adam’s sister. All he had to do was walk inside, order a drink, smile at Adam and voila, it would all work itself out. Stepping outside the rental car, Bailey decided to ditch the jacket. He looked like a dork, there was no hiding it, but at least he wouldn’t start sweating. Remembering his phone, he crawled back into the car after the coat, fishing in the pocket and grabbing it. Great, now where was he supposed to put this? He squeezed it into his front pocket, hoping he wouldn't crush it if he had to sit down or anything. Locking his door, Bailey started for the main entrance to Del Fantasma. He’d heard the rumors long before coming this way, so he at least partways knew what to expect. It was supposed to be a bar where supernatural creatures could mingle out in the open, the humans around them none the wiser because of all the paranormal tales. They just assumed that anyone claiming to be a vampire was joking, or part of some weird group that liked to play around on weekends. They had no idea that the creatures were real and that they were dangerous enough to the people around them.

Del Fantasma: Duck Fart Humans had forgotten to be wary. Give them a little bit of technology and they forgot all the reasons superstitions and myths were present in the first place. Bailey should know, he studied them often enough. In his spare time, of course. It wouldn’t do for one of the Mitchell men to actually pursue a degree in anything so feminine as anthropology. Feminine in his father’s eyes, of course. Bailey knew darned well how hard it was and he had the greatest respect for anyone who chose it as a career. Any of the social sciences, really. You had to be real dedicated to choose something like that and try and make a career out of it. Most of his friends that had gone that route had ended up doing something different when they graduated because they couldn't find jobs in their chosen fields. Which had just been another nail in the coffin as far has his father had been concerned. No, the men in his family were expected to pursue more stable things… science, engineering. Proven job market, respectable field. All the things Bailey hated. His first few years at university were brutal. Heck, his practicum last semester was brutal too. Mechanical engineers weren’t exactly babe magnets. Or male magnets, as Bailey would rather be. Of course, couldn’t tell his father that either. Siamese were expected to breed and breed often. He shuddered, hating the thought. Bailey was more and more grateful that he’d spent so much time hanging out with Adam and his tabby family. Heck, he wished he was a tabby, then he wouldn’t have to put up with all the pressure from his father. He'd been told often enough that he didn't fit in with the rest of the family. His father liked to sneer that insult frequently. “All right, enough stalling, Bailey. Just open the door already.” He could hear the sounds coming from the bar. He wasn’t sure he wanted to go in there. Not like he had a choice, though. Squaring his shoulders, he pushed open the front door, and was nearly assaulted by the sounds that hit his sensitive ears. He’d expected it to be busy, but he hadn’t expected it to be quite like this. Sally had told him that bars were

Jade Buchanan often crowded on Saturday nights but this was ridiculous. There was a crush of people right in front of him, nearly blocking his view of the bar itself. It was decorated in some kind of Irish pub theme. Dark wood, leather and ale-themed wooden plaques vied for attention with the big-screen TV’s strewn around the place. There was no sound coming from them though, not that anyone would be able to hear it over the shouted conversations taking place. How did Adam stand this every night? His ears must be bleeding about now. That was it, Bailey had to take Adam away from here. He was probably just dying for an excuse to leave anyway. Bailey could sweep in and rescue him. Suppressing the urge to hiss, he gingerly sidestepped a thin man standing by the entrance. Swinging his head from left to right, he tried to figure out the best place to stand and wait for Adam. Probably over by the bar. Now, how exactly was he supposed to get over there? Within minutes, he had perfectly executed a meandering path to the bar, thanking his shifter genes for making it through the thick crowd. Could they possibly cram anymore people in here? Weren’t there fire codes or something? He spotted his bear shifter and a tiny open space beside him. Sidling up to the giant, he inhaled, stunned into stopping mid-stride. The man was a man. A human. How was that possible? He was massive. Had to top six feet by a few inches. Definitely overpowered Bailey by at least a foot. And a hundred pounds. Jeez, what was the world coming to? He thought the Barbarian hoard had died out. No one had bothered to tell this guy. His dark hair was shaggy, cut haphazardly around his face like he had forgotten what scissors were. Black eyes, or at least brown eyes so dark they looked black, blinked down at the thick pint of Guinness in front of him. No mistaking that smell. A frown greeted Bailey’s study, brows lowered to make him appear even more menacing. Embarrassed to be caught staring, Bailey dredged up a smile, quickly ducking his head. A familiar scent reached him and he darted his head back up, beaming. He

Del Fantasma: Duck Fart met Adam’s familiar gaze, right before the love of Bailey’s life was kissed by a hulking werewolf standing beside him.

****

Keith frowned into his Guinness, tired and achy. He’d put in a long day, so it was a good thing he could sit back and relax now. Glancing up, he met Cody’s twinkling gaze. The other man didn’t say a word, but Keith relaxed all the same. Damn, he loved coming here. Nothing quite like sitting back with a few beers and watching a game. Place was crowded tonight. Keith had to school himself not to shift in place. He hated being boxed in, but not much he could do about it. Although, damn, he didn’t mind the sweet thing beside him. Little guy could press up against him any day. Cody snorted. Keith rolled his eyes, knowing his friend knew exactly what he was thinking. He hated that the other man could read him so well. Not literally, of course. At least he hoped the vamp wasn’t a mind reader. He was just really good at figuring people out. Right? It’d taken him aback, when he first found out exactly what Cody was, but Keith had been raised on the fringes of the supe community, so a vampire or two wasn’t going to freak him out. Keith took a sip of ale, not sure exactly who he was trying to convince. Sweet thing suddenly stumbled back, hitting Keith’s chest. A pained sound reached his ears. Keith wrapped an arm around the slim chest, holding the guy steady for a moment. “You okay?” he murmured, leaning down so the other man could hear him. “F-fine.” Yeah, right. Who was he trying to fool? Keith didn’t have to be a supe to

Jade Buchanan know when someone was lying to him. He patted the guy's chest, finally releasing him. “You want a drink?” “I don’t drink.” His voice was pitched low, but there was no hiding the soft yowl that escaped after. Turning around, the diminutive cutie glanced up at Keith, blinking clear blue eyes. Damn, pretty boy. His features were vaguely Asian, smooth cheeks and red, pouty lips giving him a youthful — damn near jailbait — appearance. Had to be legal, though. No one under-age was stupid enough to try and get in when Cody ran the joint. Keith licked his bottom lip, hoping his hungry growl was hidden by the noise around them. By the widening of jailbait’s eyes, he knew the other man had heard. Keith leaned in closer, furrowing his brow as he looked at the top of the man’s head. At first glance Keith had thought his hair was dyed platinum. But no, it was white. With shades of gray and pink. Strange. Unable to help himself, Keith raised a hand, petting the soft pelt of hair. He growled again, knowing for damn sure everyone around them heard. That wasn’t hair. Fur. The little one had fur on the top of his head. Silky soft, warm to the touch, bringing up images of that velvety fur brushing his thighs as jailbait kissed his way up…fuck. Great, no way the supe’s around him weren’t going to notice that either. His cock was hard enough to pound nails and he was probably giving off pheromones like crazy. Just from a single image of jailbait blowing him. “What’s your name?” He slid his hand down casually draping it over jailbait’s shoulder. The little one looked nervously over said shoulder, turning back to him with a twitch. What was that all about? “Bailey.” “Well, hello Bailey. I’m Keith.” Bailey once again looked over his shoulder. Okay, what the fuck? Keith tried to look out over the crowd, see what the pretty little thing was so nervous

Del Fantasma: Duck Fart about. Was someone bothering him? He couldn’t hold back his scowl. He didn’t like the thought of anyone hurting this guy. “Hi.” Little one — Bailey — ducked his head, looking up at him under a fringe of pale lashes. “So, you don’t drink?” He inhaled, trying to bring in the scent of the other man. It was too crowded in here, though, and his human nose definitely wasn’t up to distinguishing Bailey’s scent from all the others. Damn. “Not really. Well, I do, but I wasn’t sure...” He glanced over his shoulder again, a look of despair filling his eyes before he blinked and tried to cover it with a crooked grin. “Actually, a drink sounds perfect.” All his protective instincts surged to the forefront. Keith wasn’t sure what was bothering Bailey, but he was determined to find out. The smaller man was intriguing, different than what Keith was used to. “You want to grab something to eat, too?” Bailey chewed his lip, lifting a hand to rub his nose. He finally shrugged. “Maybe.” “Maybe?” “We could go back to my hotel room. I have a suite with a kitchen.” Okay, what the hell? Keith frowned. A rosy blush bloomed along Bailey’s cheeks. “I, uh, I can cook. I’m not bad at it. I mean...well...I can’t bone a duck or anything but...” A squawk sounded on the other side of Bailey, distracting Keith from the lecture he was about to start. This little one didn’t seem the type to take men home with him. Keith wasn’t naive enough not to see what Bailey was really asking. “What the fuck did you just say?” Keith and Bailey both turned their attention to the petite green haired twink standing on the other side of them. The newcomer let out another nasally honk of outrage, his body bristling. He was roughly the same height as Bailey, but it was like night and day

Jade Buchanan looking at them. Where Bailey looked completely and utterly preppy in dark denim, white dress shirt and a cute sweater vest, the new guy was all ripped jeans, tight tee and attitude. Great, just what he needed. Why did so many short guys have to try and prove how tough they were? “What? Cat got your tongue? Who do you think you are?” Green Hair jerked his chin, black eyes scowling at them. Bailey shivered, backing up until he was pressed tight to Keith. Keith stood up, wrapping an arm around Bailey’s shoulder. “Back off. Now.” He wasn’t sure what the guy was, human? Shapeshifter? Something else? That green hair looked strange. Short, almost buzzed, it had a sheen to it under the bar lights. When he turned his head, glints of dark hunter green and deep teal appeared. It was almost like...like a cap of tiny feathers. Was his day going to get even weirder? What kind of bird had green feathers? Cody intervened before things got ugly, somehow appearing right beside them. Keith knew damn well he hadn’t been there before. Unnerving. “Why don’t I get you all a drink?” Keith wasn’t about to take his gaze off the green guy who was quivering in outrage. He was cute. Didn’t mean he was harmless, but Keith was pretty sure he could take him. “I’d like to take him,” he murmured, wincing when he received two identical shocked glares from Bailey and new guy. He’d forgotten where he was for a minute. Damn supernatural hearing. Three shot glasses appeared in front of Keith. Glancing over at Cody, he wasn’t sure he liked the look in the vampire’s eyes. “What is this?” “You’ll like it. Crown Royal, Bailey’s and Kahlua.” “That didn’t answer my question.” “Trust me.” Hell, he couldn’t say anything now. He did trust Cody, but he’d seen him match up too many people to relax right now. Why three glasses? Was he trying to tell Keith to go for both men? That wasn’t going to happen.

Del Fantasma: Duck Fart With a sigh of resignation, Keith pushed two glasses down the bar, nodding his head for Bailey and the other guy. Speaking of which... “What’s your name?” “What’s it to you?” “Just tell me your damn name.” Green Hair bristled again, but apparently decided not to make a fuss about it. “Drake.” “Seriously?” Bailey snickered. “A Mallard named Drake?” “Fuck you, Pussy.” Bailey hissed. “Okay, enough!” He was so not ready to deal with this. Cody was insane. This was one time Keith wasn’t interested in his schemes. Although...man, the two twinks were appealing.

Mind make up, he took a slug of his shot,

reluctantly agreeing that Cody had good taste in liquor at least. Blind as a bat when it came to love, though. No matter that Keith had seen him in action. Hell, he was here practically every night, it was kind of hard to miss the matchmaking undercurrents. “Hey, Bailey. What are you doing here?” Keith closed his eyes, cursing under his breath. Turning once again toward Bailey and Drake, he was surprised to see Adam, the little busboy. Keith had heard he was some kind of cat shapeshifter, and he’d mated the big, bad wolf currently hovering over him with a menacing frown. Shit, that explained it. Bailey must be a cat. Adam’s hair was made up of fur too, in a striped tabby pattern. He wondered what that made Bailey. He wasn’t exactly a cat person, he had no idea what the different breeds looked like. He’d called Drake a Mallard, though. That was a duck, right? There were duck shapeshifters? What was next, a hedgehog? Fuck. Supes. Gotta love them. “H-hi, Adam.” “Bailey, when did you get here? Did you come alone?” Adam beamed. Keith studied Bailey’s face, confused when the other man didn’t respond

Jade Buchanan right away. He figured they must be friends. So, why was Bailey so hesitant? He looked almost sad. “He’s with me.” Drake saved the day, slinging an arm around Bailey and pressing a lingering kiss to the side of his throat. Damn, that was nice. Weird, considering Drake had been ready to blow up just minutes ago. Keith moved closer, putting one hand on Bailey’s hip, letting him know he was there if he needed him. Again, weird. He’d just decided to leave them alone, hadn’t he? Was Cody putting something in his drinks besides liquor? “Bailey?” Adam looked perplexed, his forehead wrinkling. “I-I’m with them. Him! Them. Uh...I have to go. See you later.” His little man charged away from the bar, winding through the crowd effortlessly. Drake snorted, slamming back his shot, and then repeating the gesture with Bailey’s full glass. “Better go fuck my little love kitten. You know what he’s like.” “What?” Okay, then. Now that was shock on Adam’s face. With another snort of laughter, Drake followed Bailey outside, leaving Keith standing beside a bewildered tabby and a bristling wolf. He slanted his gaze toward a grinning Cody. Great. Just great.

Del Fantasma: Duck Fart

Chapter Two

Drake didn't even bother to hide his grin. He'd come to the bar tonight to see if he could get lucky and it looked like his wish was about to be had. That was if he could find the sweet kitty that ran out of here like his tail was on fire. “Here, kitty kitty kitty.” A muffled snort sounded from his left. “You better not be talking to me.” Drake laughed. “Maybe. What are you going to do to me if I was?” His kitten scuffed his feet on the gravel, coming into the light. “I'm not really all that... To be honest, I probably wouldn't do anything. I'm not all that up on threats and making people do what I want.” Oh now, that wasn't good at all. Kitten sounded like he'd been crying. Drake wasn't sure why he cared but he didn't like that choked sound in his voice. “Well, I guess that means I'm going to have to teach you.” Drake finally came close enough to see his face. Yep, definitely crying. “Why did you follow me? What was all that back in the bar?” His kitten sniffed. Damn, what was the man's name again? Bailey? He thought that's what the other cat had called him. “Can't a guy be mysterious?” Drake asked. “Not really. You must have had a reason.” “Let's just say you intrigue me.” Drake wasn't sure of the reason himself, but that excuse served well enough. It was true anyway, the pussycat did

Jade Buchanan intrigue him. The sweater vest alone was enough to make Drake want to see what was hiding underneath. “I'm sorry for what I said. About the whole duck thing, and then making fun of your name. I'm just a bit out of sorts right now.” Crap. Drake hated apologies. “Well, shit. You can't go around just apologizing for stuff you say, otherwise I'm going to look like an ass if I don't turn around and do the same. Trust me, I've learned it's easier just to admit to being an asshole than to apologize for everything I do to annoy others.” Bailey shrugged. “It doesn't hurt to be polite. Maybe you should try it some time.” A cute little smirk appeared on kitten's face. “Oh ho! Look who's getting all cocky?” Drake chuckled, liking the hint of spine. “So, tell me, you looking for anything in particular at the big DF?” “Huh?” “DF. Del Fantasma? The bar you were just in?” Bailey jerked, scuffing his loafer-shod feet. Drake peered closely at the shoes. He didn't think he'd ever seen anyone wearing loafers before. Heck, he'd seen them in stores, just didn't think anyone bought the damned things. Interesting. He needed to get pussycat out of those sensible shoes and into something a bit more... well, just more. “No. Nothing in particular.” “You sure? Cause it certainly looked like you might be between the big ass human and your kitty friend.” “I wasn't looking for anything.” Bailey set his jaw, his lower lip perilously close to poking out into a pout. “Alright. No need to fret, kitty cat. So, you weren't looking. You want to find something anyway?” “Huh?” “Work with me here, doll. You want to get lucky?” The look on the other man's face was priceless. Shock warred with a hint of lust. Unfortunately for Drake, the shock looked to be winning.

Del Fantasma: Duck Fart “Come on, you don't go into a bar like that alone unless you're meeting up with someone or looking to go home with someone. Which is it?” “Uh...” Bailey glanced behind Drake, obviously looking at the front door of Del Fantasma where they'd both come out of. He shrugged his shoulders. “Looking to go home.” “Well, look no further then. Come on, my car's this way.” Drake strolled forward, grabbing Bailey by the hand and nearly towing him over to his rust bucket. Bailey shied back at the car, probably horrified, but Drake wasn't about to let the guy get away now. Not unless Bailey really wanted to leave, of course. Drake wanted to get laid, but he was proud enough that he wasn't going to pressure someone who didn't want it. Besides, he figured he could always go back into DF and find someone else if this prize got away. Keying open the doors, Drake managed to get Bailey into the passenger seat. He figured the pussycat would freak out if he ushered him into the back seat, so they'd have to play a little slap and tickle here and then move it to his apartment for the big show. Drake really didn't care where he was to get it on but he figured Bailey was a bit more conservative when it came to hooking up. Although... “You have done this, right?” “Of course!” Bailey shifted in his seat. Huh. That kind of smelled like a lie, but he wasn't sure. His dick was starting to join the fun now that he almost had a sure thing in his territory, so Drake decided to ignore his gut feeling. Grabbing hold of Bailey's hand, Drake leaned forward and captured his lips in a melting kiss. Damn, the man was sweet. Drake moaned, slanting his mouth and teasing the crease of Bailey's lips with his tongue. Come on, little kitty, let me in. He nearly purred himself when Bailey opened his mouth, sucking Drake's tongue inside. While their lips were occupied, Drake set his hands to wandering. Bailey was a bit uptight in his dress, but Drake figured he could have him out of the

Jade Buchanan preppy vest in no time. He slid one hand behind Bailey, turning his body into the other man. He'd done this enough times that he knew exactly how to manoeuvre around the steering wheel and stick shift. It wasn't comfortable, but it would do. Pulling up the dress shirt in the back, Drake touched skin. Bailey shivered in his hold, letting out a mew of pleasure. Oh ho, he liked that. Drake let Bailey go just far enough to look at the other man. He wanted to hear more spilling from Bailey's lips. “Come on, talk dirty to me, baby.” A look of panic crossed Bailey’s face. Drake hid his grin. This should be fun. “Uh...I want you to put your alligator in my love tunnel?” Eyes wide, Drake started to choke. He could barely breathe, bent over the steering wheel now, laughing so hard his belly hurt. “Stop it! It wasn’t that funny. You’re a...an ass!” Bailey slapped at his shoulder. Drake tried to bring himself back under control. A peep escaped and his body started to shake again. The look on Bailey’s face. Priceless. If he hadn’t known the bugger was a cat, he would now. Drake could practically see the hair standing up on end, righteous indignation written right across the pretty features. Bailey sniffed, turning his head, mouth pursed tight. He pushed himself about as far away from Drake as he could get and still be in the car. At least he wasn't storming off, though. “Okay, okay, I’m sorry. It’s just... man, that’s the best thing I’ve ever heard. Let me guess, you’re not exactly up on the whole dirty talk?” Bailey shrugged, still looking like he had a poker stuck up his ass. Mmm, now that was a nice image. He kept it to himself, guessing it wasn’t something the kitty would want to hear. “Let me give you some advice, sugar. You want to dirty talk? Talk about how hot you are, what you want to do. You want to get real dirty? Say something about...I don’t know...jerking your load all over my nuts, or making

Del Fantasma: Duck Fart a nice hot, steamy cream pie for both of us to enjoy.” Frowning, Bailey studied him. “Cream pie? The only pie I know how to make is Saskatoon berry pie.” Drake cocked his head. “Is that supposed to be a euphemism for something? Cause I’m not getting the reference.” He started to snicker. “Man, I’m definitely taking you home with me. I’m going to get that mouth all dirty by the end of the weekend, I promise.” Bailey seemed to unwind at that. “Do you...” He glanced out the windshield, looking at the entrance to the bar. Heaving a sigh, he said, “Do you want to come back to my hotel?” “Where's your hotel?” Bailey named a place that was nearly across town. Drake shook his head. “My apartment's closer. You game?” The little kitty paused, thinking. Finally he nodded. Okay, now they were talking. He ignored the smell of sadness emanating from Bailey. The kitten was an adult and he was the one who asked. Drake wasn’t sure why the guy was sad. Was it because of the tabby or the human? Didn’t matter. Drake was the one here now. The other two had snoozed and losed, and he was the one that would get to fuck the little pussycat tonight. ****

Bailey nervously shifted, glancing over at the Mallard beside him. He had no idea what he was doing. Did he even want to do this? All he knew was that his entire purpose for being here in San Diego was null and void. Adam was mated? When had that happened? How had that happened? What was he supposed to do now? He'd come here to try and convince Adam they were perfect for each other, but he couldn't possibly compete with the werewolf in there. Even if Adam wasn't supposed to be with the big hairy man, Bailey would have a big fight on his hands trying to split them apart. The werewolf had looked pretty

Jade Buchanan possessive. Their scents had been so combined back at the bar that Bailey couldn't separate one from the other. No doubt about it, Adam was definitely off limits now. It was hopeless. He might as well turn around right now and head back home. So, why wasn't he doing that? Why wasn't he on his way back to his hotel? What the heck was he doing in Drake's car, heading to Drake's house? Maybe his family was right... maybe Bailey really did need to have his head examined. “You freaking out on me already?” Drake reached over, patting his thigh. Bailey had to hold himself stiff so he didn't jerk at the touch. It wasn't that he wasn't attracted to Drake. He just didn't know how he was feeling. His equilibrium had been blown to smithereens back at Del Fantasma. First seeing Adam with another man and then feeling a stirring of attraction for a human of all things. To top it off, he couldn't shake his attraction to Drake either. What was up with that? He'd gone his entire life being in love with one man, and not even being attracted to anyone else. His radar had been set on Adam since they were in diapers together and while he'd hidden it for years because of his family, he'd never even looked at another man. Or woman. It had always been Adam. So, what was wrong with him that he was now lusting after not one, but two men. Was his love for Adam really so shallow? But, that didn't matter anyway. Adam was out of his reach now. He had to move on, right? He wasn't going to sit here and wallow in his grief. Drake pulled to a stop, jarring Bailey from his thoughts. “Are we here?” He unbuckled his belt, getting out of the car and standing beside it. Drake nodded, moving toward the apartment building they were parked in front of. “Yep. Home sweet home. Watch for the mess. The housekeeper doesn't come until Tuesday.” “Really? Ours cleans every day.”

Del Fantasma: Duck Fart Drake stopped, nearly causing Bailey to run into him. “You have a housekeeper? Seriously?” Oh, Drake was joking. “Uh, kidding. Who has a housekeeper?” He forced a laugh, knowing the other man didn't believe him but luckily Drake didn't push the issue. Bailey really didn't want to talk about his family, anyway. He quickly followed Drake inside, up the stairs and onto the third floor landing. This place was making his skin crawl. Everything was covered with a thin coating of grime. Come to think of it, he should have paid more attention outside. It hadn't exactly been the nicest of neighborhoods. Not that Bailey knew anything about San Diego. Heck, how was he going to get back to his hotel? He should have asked Sally about this when he'd had her on the phone earlier. Maybe he should excuse himself to the bathroom and call her from there? He did have his cell on him. No, that wouldn't do. She'd just lecture him for going home with Drake in the first place. He had quickly agreed when Drake had suggested coming to his place. Now, he was thinking maybe the hotel would have been the better idea. More people around. Easier to get Drake kicked out by security or something. Wait, would Bailey's father hear about it if he had to call security to kick a guy out of his hotel room? No, of course not. Right? “Babe, I can smell your unease. You sure you want to do this?” Drake had stopped in front of a door, obviously waiting for Bailey. Reminded of one of his supernatural senses that he hadn't been using, Bailey inhaled. Drake smelled like lust, sure, but he didn't smell like subterfuge or malice. “You'll drive me back to Del?” “Course. You want to go now, or later? No pressure, kitty cat.” “You'd seriously take me back now if I asked?” “Course. Don't be dumb. I'm not going to force you to do something you don't want to. Besides, if you aren't into this, I'm not going to be able to enjoy it.

Jade Buchanan So, make your decision.” Bailey stepped forward, pressing himself into Drake's back. Darn, the other man was warm. He nuzzled the shoulder in front of him. “You can take me back later.” “Hooyah. Let's get this ride started.” Drake beamed at him, opening the door, and stepping inside a complete mess. Holy mackerel! He suddenly didn't want to touch anything. “Maybe you should rethink the whole housekeeper thing. It might not hurt to have someone come in and bulldoze this.” “You making fun of my place?” “No, of course not.” Why, oh why, would anyone make fun of this rat's nest? Frog legs, what was that smell? Bailey reared back as if he'd been hit in the face. “Come on, the bedroom's cleaner.” “Uh, sure.” Bailey gingerly made his way through the room, scared to step on anything lest he find the source of that smell. “Fuck, you're back to acting the cat again, aren't you?” Drake stood in a doorway to his right, a smirk on his face. Bailey felt his spine straighten against his will. He couldn't help it. There was too much of his family in him not to poker up when someone made fun of him. He willed himself to relax, put on a disinterested air. “Come on, little one. Time to play.” Shaking the rest of his stiffness out, Bailey hop skipped the rest of the way through the main room. He ignored Drake's snort of laughter. Finally making it to the bedroom, Bailey peered inside, grateful that it really was cleaner in here. Not spic and span, but better. Bailey ignored the pile of clothes in the corner. At least they weren't strewn all over the place. “Why's this so clean compared to the rest of your place?” “Honestly, that's not all me. My roommate is a pig.” “Really?” Bailey approved of this room. He didn't feel like he'd need to

Del Fantasma: Duck Fart decontaminate after sitting on the bed. The sheets were pulled up, at least. Not neatly, but it was night and day better than the main rooms. It made Bailey a bit jealous, actually. He had to keep his room military tidy or his father would have his head. He wouldn't mind being able to throw his towel on the ground after showering, or mess up his sock drawer. This was almost liberating, for him, being in Drake's lived-in room. Mind made up, Bailey moved over to the bed and perched on the end. “Not literally. He's just messy.” “I knew that!” Of course he knew that. He would have smelled it if the roommate had been anything other than another Mallard. Although, man, he still had a bit of that rank smell stuck in his nostrils, so maybe he wouldn't have. “What died in your living room?” “Don't ask. It's better not to know. Jimmy cleans it every once in awhile but until then I just ignore whatever science experiment he has growing in the place. He pays most of the rent anyway. This is technically his place. I'm just crashing for awhile until I can get my own digs.” Unsure what to say now, Bailey fisted his hands. “So, what's your kink?” Drake closed the door, sealing them inside. It also had the effect of sealing the awful smell outside, so Bailey was glad of the action. “I, uh. Kink?” “What do you like to do? What don't you like to do?” “I'm not sure. What do you like?” Man, he was nervous. How did people do this all the time? He knew friends of his that met virtual strangers all the time and went home with them. So, how did they do it? “Here, why don't you look in my toy chest and see if that relaxes you. We can just play around, no fucking or anything. If that's what you want. I'm just looking to get off. Don't really care how that happens. You could say I'm a bit easy about all this.” Drake moved over to the dresser beside the bed, flashing a dark grin at Bailey when he knelt on the ground.

Jade Buchanan He tried to return Drake's smile. Inching up the bed, he peered into the drawer Drake held open. Oh, wow. He didn't know what half of that was. The butt plugs were obvious enough, although he figured his face was hot enough to toast bread right now just looking at them. The string with the balls had him perplexed and the leather and metal thing on the left was completely out of Bailey's realm of experience. Which was limited, admittedly, but still... “What the heck is that?” He pointed to the metal and leather, confused. “Ah, my sweet dove. That's a locking cock cage. You've never seen one?” Bailey tried not to blush that Drake had said that word. He really did feel out of his element. Which only made him want to spend more time with Drake. Obviously the old Bailey hadn't been enough to keep Adam interested, so he figured it probably wasn't enough to keep anyone else interested either. Maybe if Adam had been in love with Bailey he wouldn't have left in the first place and he certainly wouldn't have hooked up with a werewolf who looked like he'd left his innocence behind years ago. “What's it do?” He stared at the device in Drake's hand, trying to figure out where it would go. Well, okay, that was obvious, but why would you put it there? “You really want to find out?” Drake had a wicked look on his face. “Take your clothes off, then.” Bailey nearly balked but remembered his newfound goal to let go of his old self. The old Bailey would have run screaming at the thought. New Bailey was a take-charge type of guy. Reaching for his sweater vest, Bailey pulled it up and over his head. He dropped the material to the ground, inwardly cheering that he didn't fold it and set it neatly on the dresser. Take that, old Bailey! His dress shirt was next, and then his shoes followed by his pants. Quick, economical movements. He didn't look at Drake, afraid the sight of the other man would stop him. Clad only in briefs and his socks, he finally glanced up. He wasn't quite confident enough to continue. Drake licked his lips, reaching up with both hands and smoothing them

Del Fantasma: Duck Fart along Bailey's sides. His palms ghosted over Bailey's chest, pressing against his nipples and making Bailey jump. Oh, wow. That actually felt really nice. Bailey studied Drake intently, awed by the look of lust the other man was sporting. Did Drake really find him attractive? Frozen by that revelation, Bailey let Drake take over. Still on his knees, the other man slid Bailey's briefs down his legs, his lips parting as Bailey's groin was revealed to his gaze. Drake made no other movements except to nudge Bailey to lift a foot. His right sock was discarded and then his left. Bailey purred, the sound escaping his throat. Wait, was that him? Was he... was he actually getting turned on? Drake picked up the cage, licking his lips again. He removed the two open locks, sliding the metal and leather up Bailey's penis without a word. Bailey jumped, unable to stop himself. He'd never had anyone else touch him. He wasn't sure what to make of Drake's almost clinical movements. He'd expected him to draw out his actions, play with Bailey, so to speak. The fact that he wasn't was almost enough to throw Bailey for a loop. The metal was cold against his skin and the strap around the base of his penis was tightened smoothly. Drake inserted one of the locks, snapping it shut. The strap around his testicles was next, and the second lock snapped shut. Bailey fidgeted, not sure whether he liked this or not. It was a weird feeling. Heavy in a place he'd never felt weight like that before. The metal and leather kept him contained, and he had a feeling he wouldn't be able to get an erection with this in place. What was the purpose of it, then? “Why?” Drake glanced up, his gaze nearly blistering Bailey. Oh, wow. The other man definitely liked it. “Why what? Why wear it? It's so you can't get hard. Withholding sex can be a big turn-on. When you finally get released, it's like nirvana when you can finally cum.” Huh. Okay, he didn't quite get that but, to each his own. Bailey reached down, touching one of the locks. Now might be a tad too late to ask, but... “Do

Jade Buchanan you have a key for this?” Drake made a face. “Of course I do. Right here.” Reaching into the drawer, Drake pushed objects around, as if searching for something. He finally turned back to Bailey, a sheepish expression on his face. “Oh, shit.” No, no, no, no. This couldn't be happening to him.

Del Fantasma: Duck Fart

Chapter Three

“Get me out of here! You can't just do this! I knew this was a bad idea! Oh no. No no no. This isn't happening. I can't believe this is happening.” Bailey knew he was panicking but it was too late to try and stop himself. He sat down on the bed, too stunned to know what to do. Drake didn't have a key? Drake knelt at his feet, an expression of amusement suddenly appearing on his face. “You think this is funny?” Bailey needed his clothes. He needed to get dressed and get out of here. Old Bailey was screaming 'I told you so' in his ear and he really needed to have his head examined now. He let someone... right, better not to dwell on that. He'd known this whole thing was a mistake. He should have stayed home and never tried to follow Adam out here. Look what happened. “Sorry, babe. Uh... just give me a second to think about this. I know I have the key somewhere. Somewhere. Huh, where'd I put the key? Better question, when was the last time I wore that baby?” Standing up in one silky move, Drake started to pace back and forth in front of Bailey. Bailey stared at the guy, somehow hoping he'd be able to figure it out and this would all be better. Drake had to know what to do. The man in question suddenly pulled a cell phone out of his back pocket. Wait a minute... what was Drake doing? “Drake? What's that for?” Drake waved him to be quiet, instead pressing a single button.

Jade Buchanan Oh no, he couldn't call anyone. Bailey would just die if anyone saw him like this. He would die! Screaming wordlessly, Bailey lunged for Drake. For the first time in his life he actually felt violent toward another being. Drake unsuccessfully hid a chuckle, managing to fend Bailey off with one arm and leg while he held the phone up to his ear. “Cody? Man, I need your help. Let's just say I have a little kitten tied up and need a bit of assistance getting him untied.” Bailey dropped to the ground, mortification flooding him. Cody? Not Cody from Del Fantasma? Oh, good lord, he was never going to be able to look at the other man again. He was so suave, so sophisticated. Bailey was sure nothing like this had ever happened to Cody. Drake hung off the phone, squatting in front of Bailey. “He's going to send someone over here to help get you out.” “I hate you.” Bailey sulked, wishing he was anywhere but here right now. “Come on, you don't mean that. Where's my sexy little kitty gone?” “He disappeared when you locked him into a chastity belt and lost the key!” Gaining his feet again, Bailey paced from one end of the small room to the other. There wasn't much room for him to move around anyway, but it made him feel better. Walking from the bedside table where his hell had begun, around the bed and past the dresser to the other bedside table. He turned in place and skirted Drake who was following him. Glaring at the other man, knowing it was ineffective, Bailey tried to figure out what to do. “Babe, it’s a locking cock cage, not a chastity belt.” “They’re the same thing, you dummy!” “Calm down.” “Don’t tell me to calm down. I’m calm. Can’t you see I’m calm?” Bailey waved his hands around, gesturing wildly. “Oh yeah. Real calm. I think I’m going to go wait out in the living room.” “Don’t you dare leave me here. This is your fault!” He couldn't breathe.

Del Fantasma: Duck Fart Oh, he couldn't breathe. He collapsed on the bed. Drake sighed, dropping down to his knees in front of Bailey again. “Please calm down. You're going to hyperventilate.” Bailey dropped his head to his hands, moaning. Warm arms came around him, hugging him. Despite his panic, Bailey snuggled close. He needed the comfort right now. This was totally something he should have anticipated but it was all just so far outside his realm of experience. “It's going to be okay. Just think about it. Now you have a cool story to tell people when you're playing truth or dare.” Bailey really didn't like the thread of amusement in Drake's voice. He was having a bit too much fun at his expense. He dropped his hands, fisting them in the sheets beside his hips. “Come on, babe. It could be worse.” Drake pressed his lips to Bailey's shoulder, mouthing his flesh and causing goosebumps to erupt all along his exposed skin. Which was pretty much his entire body, come to think of it. Maybe he should get dressed? “How could it be worse?” No, he was not weakening. He needed to stay strong, but—oh! Drake's tongue was so hot, sliding along his shoulder. Licking up his neck, toying with his pulse. “My roommate could be home.” Drake chuckled, his mouth lifting briefly and melding to Bailey's lips. Oh, wow. The man could kiss. Firm hands moved up Bailey's back, palms gliding over his shoulders and down his arms. Drake gently pressed against Bailey's clenched fists, capturing his fingers when Bailey reflexively released his hands. Holding him down with just that press of his hands, Drake arched up. Bailey leaned back on the bed, Drake following him until the other man was kneeling astride his prone body. Drake finally released his mouth, lips gliding down his neck and ghosting over his chest. He skirted Bailey's nipples, instead pressing his teeth to the very centre of Bailey's chest. Throwing his head back, Bailey let out a rumbling purr,

Jade Buchanan feeling his nerve endings scream in pleasure. He'd never felt this way before. Even a year ago, when he'd had his ill-fated kiss with Adam, it wasn't this huge. His body was on fire. What did that mean? What did it mean that Drake was able to pull these responses out of him when Adam couldn't? Was it just because Drake was more experienced? Could it be something else? No, he couldn't think that way. This was just lust. Plain and simple lust. For a man who had just locked him into a chastity device with no way of getting him out. Was Bailey insane? His penis jerked, trying to firm up. The heaviness of the metal and leather was pressing into his skin in a way that he wasn't sure how to describe. It wasn't exactly uncomfortable. Not yet, anyway. It tugged, though. His skin felt alive and he was aware of it like never before. Did he like that feeling? It was too soon to tell. A firm knock sounded at the front door of the apartment. Bailey jerked upright, just barely missing knocking heads with Drake as the other man moved backward. With a cheeky grin, Drake bounded up off the bed. “Better throw something on over top all that naked glory. We don't know who Cody sent over to fix this mess.” Grateful for the warning, Bailey scrambled for his pants. He didn't bother with his briefs, it would take too long considering Drake was already out of the bedroom and wandering through the hazardous waste outside. Bailey nearly knocked himself out trying to hop into his pants. Frantic, he yanked them up his legs, fingers uncoordinated. Drat! Why wouldn't the zipper work? “Hey, handsome. I remember you,” Drake said. You'd think he was the cat shapeshifter with that sultry purr in his voice. Where had the belligerent man from the bar gone? Was this how Drake was when he was alone or was he just happy because he figured Bailey was a sure thing? “Someone call for a tool-man?”

Del Fantasma: Duck Fart Bailey froze at the familiar voice. Oh no. Not him. Anyone but him. “Come on in. Your project is in the bedroom.” Drake's voice sounded closer than before. “What do you need?” “You'll see. It's really more effective if I just show you.” Bailey dropped back down to the bed, covering his face with his hands again. This wasn't happening to him. Did fate hate him? Was that why he was now stuck in an apartment with two men that confused him more than anything else? The only thing that could be worse right now would be if Adam and his wolf showed up. “Hey, there. Long time no see.” The voice was low, rough. A callused hand appeared under his chin, tilting his face up to Keith’s. Why did it have to be him? ****

Why did it have to be him? The sight of Bailey sprawled over the bed, with only a pair of pants on was nearly enough to have Keith crawling in there with him. Shit, the little one was way more delectable than anyone had a right to be. Add in the smirking twink standing beside Keith and he was ready to yell yahoo and see who could stay on for eight seconds. Or eight hours. Either was fine with him really. Why did it have to be these two that were in trouble? Keith knew he should have ignored Cody when he asked for his help. The vampire was just too wily for Keith not to have realized he’d try and pull something like this. Especially after that whole three shot glasses thing in the bar earlier. First the vampire implies Keith should be with both men and then he provides the opportunity for that to happen. “What's up?” He wasn't sure why he was here. Cody hadn't explained it. Not that he needed to, since Keith owed the vampire so would pretty much do anything to help him out. Though this was probably something Cody had

Jade Buchanan probably been banking on. The green-haired Mallard bounced to the bed beside Bailey, grinning at Keith. “We had a bit of a problem.” Bailey was still silent, staring at him with those big blue eyes. Keith couldn't look away. “Bails, just show him.” Bailey shook his head. “Babe. Come on. The faster he gets it off you, the faster we can pick up where we left off.” Spots of color bloomed on Bailey's cheeks. “In your dreams,” he whispered, shooting a mild glare at Drake. Huh, what was that all about? He figured these two were getting along since they disappeared after meeting each other in the bar. He was a bit surprised, mind. He didn't expect Bailey to run off with Drake, especially since he'd already propositioned Keith. Bailey just didn't seem the type. Keith shook his head. He was obviously out of practice. He couldn't read people the way he thought he could. He ignored the voice in his head saying he was hurt, not surprised. The little cat didn't owe him anything. Sure, he would have liked it if he'd gone home with him instead. But, hell, that's what happened with strangers. Couldn't anticipate what they were going to do, so no point in trying to. Although, man, who would have thought Bailey would have left with Drake. “Alright. I don't care who explains it to me, but someone better tell me why I'm here. Cody just said you needed my particular talents. So, spill.” “Drake locked me in a chastity belt and can't find the key,” Bailey blurted out. “Locking cock cage, baby. It's a locking cock cage.” Huh? He hadn't seen that coming.

Del Fantasma: Duck Fart

Chapter Four

Keith stared back and forth between Bailey's mortified red-cheeked face and Drake's sensual heavy-lidded one. “Are you shitting me?” Bailey gave a small shake of his head. Okay then. Well, wow. He really hadn't seen that coming. “Okay, I can get you out. Just let me go back down to my truck and see what I have in the way of bolt cutters. Bailey blanched. Keith tried to hide his grin, but he must have been unsuccessful when the little one started to frown. Man, the wrinkle between his eyes was adorable when he did that, and obviously Keith needed to get laid if he was still looking at Bailey when he was in some other man's bed. Right, prioritize. He needed to get out of here before his cock got any harder. Fuck, too late. “I'll be back.” One step back into the living room and Keith finally noticed what he was too distracted to see the first time he came in. It looked like this was the room mismatched furniture came to die. The apartment opened up into the dining room, with the so-called living room set behind it. About halfway through the living room there were two branches off either side of the place. They'd taken the route to the right when he'd first gotten here so he assumed someone else lived in the bedroom to the left. He could just make out an unmade bed amidst the piles of clothes revealed through the open doorway.

Jade Buchanan Everything in here gave the appearance of age, mold and disarray. How could someone live like this? He shook his head, trying to ignore whatever he might be stepping on. A good trash bag would solve half the problems in here. And a disinfectant of some sort. Actually, make that a lot of disinfectant. Keith ignored the duck shadowing him to the front door but when the man left the apartment with him, Keith finally turned around. “You can't leave him alone in there. Poor guy looks like he might have a stroke.” “Ah, kitten will survive.” “The two of you need a pet sitter.” He shook his head, turning back and heading to his truck. “You volunteering, big man?” Did he look insane? Okay, so the tent at the front of his jeans might be a bit obvious, but he was trying to ignore it so the damned duck should too. Or, was that what he was referring to? Shit, did ducks have a good sense of smell? Good enough to catch a sniff of the hungry pheromones Keith was more than likely shooting off. A quick look in his truck showed the bolt cutters exactly where he thought they would be. Drake crawled up into the bed of the truck, bouncing around while he pawed through the stuff Keith was toting around. Keith grinned despite himself. “So, why'd Cody send you, tool-man?” “I happened to be sitting at the bar when you called. I'm assuming it was you, since Bailey in there looks like he might wear a cock cage forever before telling someone he got locked into one.” “Yeah, it was me. I'm just surprised, is all. Didn't think I'd see you again tonight.” “I won't be here long, then I'll be out of your hair.” Keith motioned for Drake to step down. “Come on, we better get back.” “Hmm. You don't have to leave right away.” Drake jumped down, running a palm over his hair. Feathers. Hair. Shit, was it still called hair when it wasn't

Del Fantasma: Duck Fart actually hair? Whatever it was, the strands looked like velvet under the soft glare from the streetlights. Keith's hands itched. Setting his shoulders, he ignored the feeling, and the duck. Starting back on his own, he wasn't surprised when Drake caught up to him in two steps. “Seriously, there's no need for you to run out.” “What, you going to offer beer and peanuts? We going to watch the game on TV or something?” Keith couldn't figure Drake out. He wasn't Keith's type. At all. Too mouthy, too twinky. Too crazy. Yet, there was something about him. “Well, I have nuts. And you can watch a game.” Drake snickered. It didn't take any time at all for Keith to figure out what Drake was implying. He snorted. “Right, well, it looks like you might be busy with someone else's nuts as soon as I get Bailey out of your little toy.” “I have two hands.” Drake glanced up at Keith through his lashes. The tip of his pink tongue darted out, wetting his lower lip. Keith's chest practically vibrated from the force of the growl he let out at the sight. Oh yeah, the duck was good. They made it to the apartment door without another word said. Keith tried to ignore Drake's heavy hints. He couldn't stay here. They just really weren't his type, after all was said and done. It would be insane to consider having a fling and leaving. Although, nothing said he couldn't do that. Cody wasn't expecting him back and all he had waiting for him when he left here was an empty house. One step back into the mess of Drake's apartment and he had one reason for leaving as soon as this was done. “Hazmat probably uses this place as their training facility.” “You trying to say something?” Drake bristled in front of him. “I'm not trying. I'm saying. This place should be condemned.” “It's not me! It's my fucking roommate. He gets mad if I touch his stuff.” Uh oh. Was that a blush riding high on Drake's cheekbones. Was the duck

Jade Buchanan embarrassed? Crap, now Keith wanted to make things better. He reached out, stopping at the feel of the bolt cutters in his hand. Right, he was here to do a job and get out. Although, he wouldn't mind a job as payment for his services rendered and all that. Blow or hand would be perfectly fine with him. “Hello?” Bailey asked, his voice quiet. “Better go rescue the cat.” Drake turned away, stalking into the kitchen. Keith sighed, making his way in the opposite direction until he reached the bedroom. Bailey was wringing his hands, still sitting on the bed. Actually, come to think of it, this room was a hell of a lot cleaner than the rest of the apartment. Maybe it really was Drake's roommate that wrecked the joint. Ah, hell. Did that mean he was going to have to go out there and apologize for being a smart ass? Later. He'd talk to Drake later. Now, he had another problem to fix. He stared Bailey down, girding his own loins for what he was going to have to get up close and personal with. Life just sucked some days. If he could have both Bailey and Drake and get an outlet for the need swirling through his body everything would be hunky dory. But, he had a feeling that any fling with these two wouldn't satisfy him. What did that say about him? He wasn't looking for something more serious than a fling. He didn't have time for it and they really weren't his type. Shit. “Alright. Take the pants off.” “What?” Bailey screeched, immediately standing up and placing the bed between them. Huh. The cat could move. “Take. Your. Pants. Off.” Keith waved the bolt cutters with one hand, reaching out to Bailey with the other. “Now.” Bailey froze. Bowing his head, he finally skirted around the bed, coming back to Keith. His hands hovered at his waistband. “I don't know if I can,” he whispered. Keith studied Bailey's face. “Why?”

Del Fantasma: Duck Fart “This is all so far outside my comfort zone I think I'm dreaming. I was just supposed to... this isn't happening at all the way I...” He slid to the bed, dropping his head to his hands the way he'd been the first time Keith had walked into this room. Okay, this wasn't going to work. Keith sat down on the bed beside Bailey, keeping the cat in place without physically holding him down. “So, what's your story? How was this supposed to happen?” Bailey shrugged, silent. Keith barely stopped a growl from escaping. “Alright. Let's start with something simpler. Are you from the area? I've never seen you in Del before.” Glancing up, Bailey met his gaze. “I'm here on vacation.” “Vacation?” Another shrug. Damn, that was starting to get annoying. He wanted to hear Bailey's story, needed to know more about the other man. It wasn't just about getting the other man to calm down enough for Keith to do what he came here to do. He was genuinely interested. He didn't like the thought of pulling teeth to get it, though. Maybe a bit of tit for tat would get him to loosen up. Keith sighed, trying to figure out where to start. “I've lived in and around this area my whole life. My parents split up when I was pretty young, and my dad ended up re-marrying soon after.” Bailey lifted his gaze, finally meeting Keith's before lowering his head again. Keith hid his smile. That looked like the little cat was thawing. He continued with his story, figuring Bailey might relax if Keith kept things calm and harmless. No need to worry about the man with the bolt cutters when he was talking about his parents. “Mom and dad are still friends. Weird, how they just decided that they weren't meant to be together but there weren't any hard feelings. My stepmom took some getting used to, though. I'm an only child, and lived with dad when my parents split. Mom moved to Vancouver Island and dad married a

Jade Buchanan vampire.” Keith still had to shake his head about that, even after all these years. It had been so out of the blue, his dad had just introduced him to a new woman and a completely new world in one fell swoop. Bailey sputtered. “A vampire?” Keith knew how he felt. It still seemed like he was stuck in a Dracula film some days. Vamps. Gotta love them. Especially his stepmom. She was great. Come to think of it, Bailey reminded him a little of Shirl. In temperament, at least. When Keith had first met her she'd been so shy, so reserved. But, she'd quickly warmed up the minute she'd started talking to the little boy he'd been and that had been that. Shirl had a way of taking over. He was lucky, he figured. “Yeah. Shirl's real nice, though. I think you'd like her. I know she'd like you. She treated me like her own. At first I thought it was because she couldn't have kids of her own but that's just who Shirl is. She'd bend over backward to help someone in need if she could, and she's so damned warm and giving that you feel like you've known her forever even if you just met her two minutes ago.” “Sounds nice.” Keith hid his smile. There was a touch of wistfulness in Bailey's voice. He got the feeling that Bailey's upbringing was a bit different from his own. It almost made him want to take Bailey home with him and introduce him to Shirl and his dad. Made him want to spoil the cat. Everyone should be so lucky as him. He didn't mind sharing his family with Bailey if it would remove that look from his face. Sad. The cat looked sad. Keith was getting way too serious, though. He couldn't be thinking things like this. He'd just met the guy, and from the sounds of what he'd heard so far, Bailey had every intention of going back home when he was done with whatever business brought him out here. “It was. She helped me through the split actually. Made me understand that sometimes things just don't work out. It was for the best anyway. Dad and

Del Fantasma: Duck Fart Shirl are still together after all these years and happier than ever. Mom remarried when I was ten, to a Selkie of all things. Imagine. She's a marine biologist, so it all makes sense. But, still. Hard to believe that two humans ended up marrying into the supe world just like that.” He was close to his mom and Eddie too, which he was grateful for. He knew he had it lucky, when it came to his family. The ties to his parents were so strong that he wouldn't want to change it for the world. He just had to remember that not everyone had the same experience as he did. “So, you've...” Bailey shrugged, gesturing with one hand. “Yep. Grown up around other supernaturals my entire life. Shirl is actually who introduced me to Cody and the Del. I've done a few odd jobs around the bar for him when he needs it. I'm a carpenter by trade but I'm a pretty good handyman in general. Not bragging or nothing. Just telling it like it is.” He got by, and that was good enough for him. It hadn't always been easy, but his dad had helped him out with rent a few times in the early days when he was desperate to quit his drywall job and spend more time crafting furniture. Out of the corner of his eye, Keith saw Drake standing just outside the bedroom door. He wasn't sure why he didn't just come in, but he figured Drake could do whatever he wanted. It was his house, after all. “I'm an engineer,” Bailey blurted out. “Yeah? Cool. You like it?” Bailey shrugged again. Okay, that was getting annoying again. “I guess.” “Huh. Sounds like maybe you don't.” “I-I... don't really have a job yet. I just graduated. But I did a practicum last semester and it was okay. It pays well, at least.” That sounded wrong coming from Bailey. Life was more about how much money you made. Although, he shouldn't be surprised. He didn't know the kitten, really. Maybe his internal radar was off today and he was imagining things that weren't really there. It was completely probable that Keith was wrong about Bailey, where it mattered. “There's more to life than money.”

Jade Buchanan “Says a man who has it,” Drake muttered. Keith waved Drake inside, not put out at all by his words. He knew how lucky he was. He wasn't going to argue with anyone about that. He'd also worked damned hard for what he had, though. In his mid-thirties now, he was comfortable with what he had. He wanted to pull the other man into their conversation, though. Drake looked lonely standing in the doorway, which was ridiculous considering it was Keith who was the interloper here. Bailey had gone home with Drake, after all. Not Keith. “You got a story, duck?” “Don't call me duck, assface,” Drake honked. Keith drew in a deep breath, calling for patience. Okay, that was his mistake. Obviously, Drake could call Bailey a kitten, pussy or kitty but he didn't want pet names applied to himself. Not that Keith was taking notes or anything. Hell, he was honest enough to realize he was already too far in over his head. Might as well come to grips with the fact that he was going to take both men up on sex if they offered. He wasn't stupid and he wasn't going to turn them down. “Drake. Do you have a story?” he asked, trying to be polite this time. “Sure. Doesn't everyone? My dad left before I was born. My mom left when I was five. Lived with my uncle until I graduated and then I split. End of story.” Okay then. Drake obviously had a sore spot and Keith had just poked at it with a sharp stick. Time to change the subject or the mood really would be ruined. “Are you... I... I'm sorry,” Bailey whispered, gaining his feet and taking a step toward Drake. Keith wasn't surprised at the flash of compassion on Bailey's face. The Mallard stepped out of the way, going to stand over by the dresser at the foot of the bed instead. “Nothing to be sorry about. I don't regret anything that's happened. Not even this hellhole that you both think is a piece of shit.

Del Fantasma: Duck Fart You know why I don't regret it? Because everything I have I got myself. I don't need any handouts or scraps from the dinner table. I'm just fine.” He crossed his arms, angling his face away from them. Bailey gazed imploringly at Keith, raising his eyebrows. He obviously expected Keith to fix this. Nodding, he gained his feet. He had to try. If Drake ignored him, fine. No sweat. But, for some reason he couldn't fathom, Keith wanted to get to know both of them. It wasn't just about the sex. He wanted that too, now that he was being honest with himself. It wasn't love, or anything sappy like that. He just had an urge, something pressing him to find out more about them. He paced over to Drake, careful to give him room if he decided to bolt. “Good for you,” he said. “It takes guts to strike out on your own.” “What?” Drake's arms fell to his sides. “You heard me. I meant it, in case you think to question whether I'm just trying to be nice. I was lucky in the cards I was dealt. No idea how I would have ended up if I'd gotten a different hand.” Drake huffed out a laugh, obviously uncomfortable with the words. He finally lifted his shoulders, shrugging off the praise. Both men turned to gaze at Bailey, standing so quietly now. He lifted one corner of his expressive mouth, holding out his hand to Keith. “I'm ready for you to remove this thing now.” “You're not going to reciprocate?” Drake asked. Bailey glanced at him. “Yeah, I know a big word. Surprise, surprise. Now, answer me. You're just going to remain silent after we both talked about our past?” “I...” He shook his head. “It's okay, Bailey. No rush. And Drake, enough with the self-mockery. Another self deprecating word comes out of your mouth and I'll turn you over my knee and blister your ass.” Bailey gasped. Keith stared down Drake. Finally, the duck gave a tiny nod

Jade Buchanan of his head before he smirked. “Don't tempt me, big boy. I might just sashay over there and throw myself over your knee.” Keith snorted, not at all surprised this time by the words that came out of his mouth. It was good enough, though. He'd made his point and Drake was fully aware of it. Now they just had to wear down the stubborn kitty cat and they'd be making progress.

Del Fantasma: Duck Fart

Chapter Five

Bailey fidgeted, trying to figure out if he should go back and sit on the bed or remain standing where he was. Drake showed no inclination to leave and Keith was staring at him with a weird look on his face. Almost hungry, but not quite. He didn't know what that meant. Although, by the scent of pheromones in the room, Bailey was pretty sure he could guess. Should he be nervous? Bailey hadn't thought he'd see the burly human again, not after he'd run out of the bar. Granted, when he'd first seen Adam and the werewolf, Bailey had figured Keith could help him leave without making a scene. That didn't quite work out the way he'd thought it would. He wasn't sure if he would have left with Keith if the man had agreed. Instead, he'd made it seem like he was almost disappointed in Bailey for jumping into something just off the bat like that. Which served to make Bailey feel even worse now that Keith had obviously caught him with another man after he'd already propositioned the human. He looked like some kind of male floozy. He should have just stayed at home. This whole mess was more complicated than he'd ever thought it would be. Was he honor-bound to stay here with Drake since he'd come with him? Should he leave with Keith when he was finished? Would Keith even want him to go? Would Drake even want him to stay? He didn't have his car, it was back at the Del Fantasma and wasn't that just something Sally would kill him for. Bailey couldn't believe he'd messed this all up this much.

Jade Buchanan He just couldn't get anything right. Which brought him back to his dilemma. What was the right way to deal with a chastity belt that couldn't come off when you had two attractive individuals standing in front of you eyeing you like you were a piece of meat and they were starving. Bailey fidgeted again. “Okay, that's it.” Drake flung himself onto the bed. Bailey glanced back at him, confused. Drake arched his brow, the side of his mouth curving wickedly before he reached out and grabbed Bailey. He was pulled back onto the bed between Drake's outstretched legs, resting in front of the duck and effectively held in place. “Do your stuff, K man. I've got a firm grip on the pussy.” Hissing, Bailey tried to wrench free. “Don't call me that!” They rocked on the bed, Bailey nearly throwing himself off the bed, but Drake held firm. Fricking strong for a duck. “What can I say? I just love getting you all excited. Wonder if you'll hiss and scratch if I do that in the middle of the sexin?” “You're a jerk.” “And you're just adorable, kitty cat.” Bailey glared at Drake, barely noticing Keith in front of him until the human knelt on the ground at his feet. Starting, Bailey opened his eyes wide. “Don't mind me. You two keep on doing whatever you're doing and I'll be done in a second.” A tiny smile played at the corners of Keith's mouth. Bailey licked his lips, intrigued. There was just something about Keith that made all his curious bones sit up and want to learn more. It was the same with Drake. Odd, but it was serving to distract him from the Adam fiasco. Keith lifted a hand, reaching for Bailey's crotch. Bailey yelped, trying to jerk away but Drake held him neatly in place. Oh, right. He wasn't supposed to be moving around. “Uh, I can do it,” Bailey stammered.

Del Fantasma: Duck Fart Glancing up at him, Keith nodded. “Go ahead.” Hands clammy, Bailey reached for the fastening on his pants. He inhaled deeply, counting to three in his head before he could make his fingers release the button. Keith was frozen in place in front of him and Drake was a warm presence behind. This seemed oddly intimate all of a sudden. Which it shouldn't. He just needed Keith to remove his little problem and the man would leave. He was here to do a job, nothing more nothing less. Right? Bailey finally released his button, moving down to unzip. The sound was overly loud in the silent room, making him even more nervous. Couldn't one of them talk or something? Should he say something? No, he'd just start to babble and that wasn't sexy at all. Not that he was trying to be sexy. Oh no. He couldn't make himself go any further now that his pants were unzipped. He just couldn't take the next step. Keith placed a soothing hand on his knee, patting him twice. Bailey took another deep breath. “Do you mind if I...” Keith gestured to Bailey's crotch. Nodding, Bailey leaned back against Drake, taking comfort in the other man's presence. Keith lifted his hand off Bailey's knee, moving it forward until it hovered over Bailey's groin. He motioned for Bailey to lift up and his pants were drawn down his legs smoothly. With another searching gaze, Keith finally moved in for the kill. Uh, oh. This might not have been the best idea. If the sight of Keith's hand at his crotch was enough to nearly blank his mind, then the feel of Keith's hand touching his penis was enough to kill him. He was being so gentle, obviously trying to keep his touch to the metal and leather but it wasn't that easy. The glancing touches against his bare skin were acting against Bailey, inflaming all his senses. To his mortification, his penis jerked in Keith's hold, almost like it was trying to get closer to the warm hand enclosing the chastity belt.

Jade Buchanan Bailey purred, his head falling back to Drake's shoulder. Drake placed his mouth to Bailey's neck, nudging him to make more room. Drake's arms came around Bailey more firmly, hugging him now instead of restraining. Bailey closed his eyes, trying not to get turned on at the feel of Keith's hand holding his penis, but the only thing preventing him from getting an erection was the metal holding him in place. His body was tingly, his skin sensitive to every brush against it. Drake was taking full advantage of his weaknesses, running just his lips along Bailey's flesh. Barely touching him with his mouth, but the soft movement was driving him insane. A tug on his penis caught his attention right before a snick sounded in the room. Bailey blinked, staring down at Keith. The man glanced up, meeting his gaze. Bailey gasped, inflamed at the look of intense need shadowing Keith's eyes. He lifted the cutters, fitting them to the second bolt and snapping that just as easily. Glancing up again, Keith captured Bailey's full attention when he started to slowly peel the chastity belt off. The device looked obscene in his big hand, causing heat to rise to the surface of Bailey's skin. He was sure he was flushed red, but he couldn't help it. It was just so... Bailey squirmed, his legs moving. He wasn't sure if he wanted to open them further or close them but Keith took the decision out of his hands when he fit himself closer to the bed, between Bailey's outstretched legs. Drake tightened his hold, fitting himself flush against Bailey's back. Oh! He could feel the heated press of Drake's penis against his lower back. Were they...? Were they really turned on by him? Plain Bailey Mitchell? His unspoken question was answered when Keith opened his mouth. “You can say no. But if you want to take this a bit further, I'd love to treat you the way you deserve.” Bailey would have asked him to clarify, but his nose told him exactly what Keith meant. Maybe Bailey wasn't so plain after all.

Del Fantasma: Duck Fart Keith must have taken his silence for assent. Thank goodness because Bailey wasn't sure he could make a sound right now if he tried. “Hold on. If you're sucking the Bailster, I'm getting in on this. House rules and all that.” Drake swung around him, dropping down to the ground and crawling over to place himself right beside Keith. Bailey blinked at both of them, swinging his arms down to the bed to balance himself now that he didn't have Drake holding him up. Keith dropped the chastity belt beside the bed, lifting both hands to smooth them up Bailey's calves. Bailey twitched, starting to purr again from deep in his throat. He'd never felt this way before. His penis jerked, engorging with blood, flushed red. Keith's hands were so hot, rough with calluses, making the most wonderful sensations climb up Bailey's skin. His muscles spasmed at the unfamiliar touch, his whole body waking up. He felt like he could just crawl right out of his skin and wallow in the pleasure suffusing his whole being. He didn't think it could get any better than this, but then Drake touched him. Drake bent his head, the overhead light glinting off the tiny cap of green feathers as Drake pressed his lips to Bailey's thigh. Gasping, Bailey tried to pull away, the sensation almost too much for him. Keith held him in place with his hands, leaning forward to press his own lips against Bailey's opposite leg. A high-pitched keening sound filled the room. Bailey's arms gave out and he collapsed to the bed. His penis slapped his belly, causing lights to go off behind his closed eyelids. Oh! He'd almost ejaculated just from that. “Time to play, baby. Hold onto your socks,” Drake crooned. Keith let out a low growl, sounding like the bear Bailey had first mistaken him for. They both reared up, Keith placing his lips against Bailey's right hip while Drake licked the tip of his penis. Bailey cried out, hips jolting like a live wire had just been placed underneath him. “Yeah, that's it. Come on, baby. Cum for us. I want to see your thick,

Jade Buchanan creamy seed splattered all over your belly. Can you do that for me?” Drake accompanied his words with a lick along the underside of Bailey's penis, his long-fingered hands hot on Bailey's hips. A rough touched cupped his testicles, applying just enough pressure to have Bailey keening. “Damn, baby. Your balls are so fucking soft,” Keith growled. He had a split second to wonder if Drake's apartment had good soundproofing when Keith scraped his teeth over Baileys hip, moving up his torso until he sucked one of Bailey's nipples into his mouth. Bailey's hands grasped the comforter, opening and closing on the thick fabric. He needed, oh, he didn't know what he needed. “Here, hold on.” Keith pried one hand off the fabric and held it tightly in his own grip, his other hand still occupied around Bailey's testicles. Bailey was grateful for the connection of Keith's hand, the anchor holding him in place. He felt like he might really leave his skin and float away if he wasn't careful. What were they doing to him? Was this the way it was supposed to feel? His mind was going to crack. “Here, you have to taste this. Yummy.” Drake lifted his head, grabbing hold of Bailey's penis in one hand and motioning for Keith. Bailey shuddered when the big man shimmied down the bed, swallowing Bailey whole in one movement. Stars flashed before his eyes, and he was suddenly splintering apart, his entire essence pulled out of his body. Keith released him, pumping with his fist as the first milky jet spurted out. “Yeah, that's it. Cum for us. Good boy.” Drake rubbed Bailey's belly, fingers dancing in his... Bailey blushed, mind once again back online. He wasn't sure what to call it, but Drake was definitely playing with it. The duck lifted his hand, licking the traces of Bailey off his fingers. Bailey dropped his head to the bed, feeling a twinge in his penis that signalled he might not be entirely finished for the night.

Del Fantasma: Duck Fart Bailey couldn't stop his purr either. The sawing sound was coming steadily from his body, but he couldn't for the life of him stop. He was just too sated. Keith patted his hip, leaning up to kiss Bailey's mouth. “Drake was right. You taste sweet.” He couldn't stop the smile from popping up. Bailey shifted deeper into the mattress, sliding his body under Keith and Drake's perusal. Standing up, Keith stared down at him. “I'd love to continue this, but maybe we should move to my place.” Bailey frowned. “Why?” He sat up, wondering if he should pull his clothes back on right now. “This isn't quite the atmosphere I prefer.” Bristling, Drake slung an arm out. “This isn't mine. I don't own this place, I just rent the room. My roommate has already threatened to kick me out if I touch his stuff so excuse me if I have to put up with this to keep a fucking roof over my head.” “I'm sorry.” Keith stepped up to Drake, ignoring him when he tried to walk away. Grabbing hold of his arm, Keith turned Drake to face him. “I'm sorry, okay? Can we move this over to my house? There's a lot more room. We can spread out more.” Drake snickered. “I can spread out. Flexible. Wanna see?” Bailey couldn't get over how quickly his moods changed. He reminded Bailey of a cranky duck he'd seen in a park back home. A real duck, not a shifter. The creature would snap at anyone who got too close but the minute you turned your back he'd start quacking and coming after you. “Alright, everyone out. I want a piece of duck tonight. And I'm getting another shot at the kitty in the room too. Hope you boys took your vitamins.” Keith leered at Bailey. He just knew his face was bright red, but he didn't really care. Wow, he couldn't believe these two men actually wanted to do more with him. Especially after his... uh... speed problem just now. He couldn't believe how lucky he was right now. Maybe coming to San

Jade Buchanan Diego was a good idea after all. ****

Wow, fancy place. Drake parked his crappy vehicle behind Keith’s big ass truck, taking in the view. It had felt like night and day coming from his neighborhood to Mission Hills where Keith lived and he still felt like he was out of his element. He finally got out of the car to overhear Keith and Bailey. “It’s just a craftsman bungalow,” Keith said. “Nothing fancy.” Drake had no idea what that meant, but it was definitely different from his shack. There wasn’t much of a lawn, but Keith had big planters all around the front of the house. Painted a soft green, with white trim, the place was pretty. Not that he’d ever admit that. Drake would lose major points if he ever opened his mouth and talked about how pretty something was. Although, Bailey and Keith might not care. He wasn’t going to risk it, though. No one really liked him when he said stupid shit like that, anyway. They’d either think he was being a smartass or think he was a dork. Yeah, not all that great either way. Keith bounded up the three short steps to the front door, letting them inside. Drake took one step in and stopped beside Keith, Bailey bringing up the rear. His apartment looked like a shithole compared to this. No wonder Keith had acted so shocked at the state of it. Drake was nearly afraid to touch anything. Which of course made him want to run his hands over everything and pretend to fool around. Not that he’d actually try to wreck the place, but he hated feeling stupid. Uncomfortable. Like a rube and all that. “Nice,” he said, finally looking at Keith. The big man shrugged, running one of his paws over the table beside the front door. His keys were lying on top, so it must be where he dropped them normally. Drake studied the gleaming hardwood, the soft warmth of the beige walls and the stone fireplace. The furniture looked like it had been made from

Del Fantasma: Duck Fart reclaimed wood, as if Keith had gone out, cut a tree down and just polished it a bit. Hell, it was even shaped roughly, no square or rectangular pieces like you’d find in one of those warehouse furniture stores. Keith shifted beside him. “This place belonged to my grandparents, and I bought it off them when they moved to one of those apartment style senior complexes. Had to do quite a bit of remodelling, but I don’t mind that. It was a lot of fun. Replaced the floors, built the fireplace back up. Gutted the kitchen and bathroom. There’s just one of those. Two bedrooms, one of which I made a guest room. My work shed is back behind the house. It’s where I do smaller jobs. The furniture’s all tongue and groove. I made it myself. Not bad. Nothing fancy, but it suits me.” Huh, right. Sure, nothing fancy. Drake glanced back at Bailey, taking in the wide-eyed stare as kitten tried to take everything in at once. “Hey Bailey, I’d like to get my tongue in your groove.” Bailey turned a glorious shade of red, his shoulders creeping up. “Stop that.” “Aww, you like it. Don’t try and pretend differently.” Drake ignored the intent look Keith was giving him. He didn’t know what that was all about, but it didn’t matter. He was here for a reason and that reason was to get lucky. End of story. “So, you got a place to fuck around here or are we disrobing right here in the foyer?” Keith let out a little growl. Damned cute. Made Drake want to bend over and get spanked for being a naughty boy. He wondered how far he’d have to push Keith for the human to really let loose. Might be fun to find out. With that in mind, Drake started forward. He grabbled Keith around the waist, rucking up his shirt and attaching his mouth to Keith's chest in one movement. Oh, yeah. Let's get this party started. Keith hummed, holding the back of Drake's head in one hand. He must have motioned for Bailey to join them because the little kitten attached himself to Drake's back, wiggling around. Either that, or their cat was growing up and

Jade Buchanan letting his horny out. Yeehaw. Either way, this was going to be fun. Not that it hadn't been fun with Bailey earlier, but Drake worked best without clothes of any kind hampering him and right now he had a mighty fine urge to get down and dirty with these two men. Keith started to move backward, taking the two of them with him. Drake found a nipple, that had him moaning over his discovery. He felt all powerful, like a great explorer discovering the lost treasure of Keith... Drake lifted his head. “What's your last name?” “You want to talk now? Now?” Keith tightened his grip on Drake's head, running his fingers through the cap of feathers. If Drake had been Bailey, he'd be purring right now. Yeppers, that felt nice. A hard object stopped their backward momentum. Well, Keith's backward momentum, at least. Drake was suddenly yanked downward, following Keith down to the sofa that had veered into their path. He ended up sprawled over a colossal chest, his lips still attached to Keith's nipple. He bit gently into the flesh, worrying it with his teeth. Keith arched up, nearly tossing Drake to the floor. Trying not to smile around his treasure, Drake closed his eyes. The better to savour the experience. “I, uh... can I make a phone call?” Drake stopped licking Keith's chest, turning to stare at Bailey. Huh, that's right. Bailey hadn't followed them down to the sofa. What was he doing all the way over there? “Why?” “I'm supposed to call my friend and let her know I'm okay.” Keith rumbled, lifting Drake up and off him. Drake ended up lying prone on the sofa with Keith standing beside it. Fucking shit, that was hot. Made Drake want to cling like a limpet to see if Keith could tote him around all day. The big guy had muscles on top of muscles and it was obviously not from a gym. That was all hard, physical work. Yep, he could get into some hard, physical sweaty work right now if Keith

Del Fantasma: Duck Fart was interested. Maybe he could keep the human warmed up, so to speak, while Bailey was off doing his thing. Then when the Bailster was all finished, he could come back and finish them. Sounded like a plan. “The phone's in the kitchen,” Keith said. “You need me to show you the way?” “Uh no. I can find it, but I'll just use my cell.” Bailey took the phone out of his pocket, showing it to them. Drake licked his lips, propping himself up on one elbow. “Let's see what else is in your pockets, babe. You want to play show and tell?” Bailey blushed, exactly the reaction Drake was looking for. Man, this was going to be an awesome weekend. For sure. “All right, take as long as you need. You two want something to drink?” Keith asked. Bailey shook his head, turning and going further into the house to make his call. Drake licked his lips, waiting until Keith turned back to him. “Got anything hot and salty? I can drink it straight out of the... bottle.” “Wait until Bailey gets back and you can put your lips around anything you like.” “Hooyah.” Drake leered at Keith, laughing when the other man swatted at him. “Okay, okay. Drinks are in the kitchen?” “Yep. Just go back.” Keith pointed the way Bailey had already gone. With a lingering look, Drake finally pulled himself out of the room. It wasn’t all that far to the kitchen, but he felt out of place here. He really wasn’t sure if he belonged in an actual house like this. It was giving him the willies.

Jade Buchanan

Chapter Six

Drake wandered around the kitchen, pulling from the bottle of beer in his hand. This was definitely the fanciest place Drake had ever been. It reminded him in some ways of Del, because of all the wood, but also because of what it revealed about the owner of this place. Del was constantly changing, a fluid environment because of the sheer volume of supernatural creatures that spent time there. This was the home of a human living on the fringes of that community and Drake was learning more about him the more time he spent inside Keith's sanctuary. Keith's home was warm, inviting, open. The kitchen felt like a kitchen, all creamy walls and oak cabinets. White porcelain sink, all the bells and whistles of a fully loaded kitchen. But, it was more than that. It felt like a place where meals were made and family came together to talk and share stories about their day. Drake had never had that before, had never realized how much he wanted it. Stupid duck. He knew better, but he wanted this. Wanted to know what that would be like, to come home to someone and share his day. The stories Keith had told about his family earlier still resonated in Drake's head. He'd been so envious when Keith had first started talking to Bailey. Just the tiny bit of information he'd learned about the human had drawn Drake in. Keith was still in the living room, waiting for them to come back and Bailey had shut himself into the bathroom between the kitchen and the bedrooms. Drake was trying to figure out if it would be rude to mosey closer and see if he could hear anything. His hearing wasn't as good as some other animals, so he'd

Del Fantasma: Duck Fart definitely need to get closer to get any juicy tidbits. Not nearly as bad as Siamese hearing though, so he was sure he could get closer without Bailey hearing him and knowing Drake was blatantly eavesdropping. He wasn't worried about Keith catching him in the act. The man was human, after all. Drake would hear him before he entered the room. Figuring he could bluff his way out of it even if someone caught him lingering outside the bathroom, Drake walked closer. He could just make out Bailey's whispers. Tilting his head to the side, Drake tried to figure out what he was talking about. “No, I definitely saw them... Well, why didn't you tell me that? Man, Sally, I could have used that information before coming all this way for nothing... I know that! I'm not blaming you. I realize that, I just wish you'd talked to Adam's sister before I came here. If I'd known he was mated, I wouldn't have come, you know that... Yeah, I know. I just wish you'd gone to see her before I went into that bar.” Bailey sniffed, sounding suspiciously close to tears. Drake frowned. Adam was the busboy at the DF, the tabby Bailey had run from earlier this evening. He wished he was close enough to the phone to hear this Sally's end of the conversation. Then he'd be able to fill in the gaps of Bailey's conversation. He was personally glad that this Sally hadn't told Bailey before he'd gone to the bar. Drake would have never met him otherwise. “I don't know what to do. No, I'm, uh, not at the hotel... No, it's not... Look, it's not important where I am. Just, I'll talk to you when I get back home... Fine, okay, I'll call you tomorrow. I don't know when I'm coming back... No, not tomorrow. I should... Do you think I should try and talk to him? I don't know what to say... He's not going to leave the wolf, right? I mean... They obviously haven't been mated for long... No.... I know that... Yeah, you're right.” Drake leaned his back against the wall outside the bathroom door, trying to ignore the clench in his chest. It was more than obvious now that the tabby back at the bar was the reason Bailey had come out here and he was also the reason Bailey had left the DF crying. Drake wasn't sure why Bailey had come

Jade Buchanan with him, unless he'd been trying to forget about Adam. Drake had seen Adam around the bar recently, he was a relatively new addition. So was the wolf he was mated too, so hopefully Bailey wasn't stupid enough to try and get Adam away from his mate. Mates were for life, even when one half didn't feel the same way as the other, but it was more than obvious to anyone with eyes that Adam and the wolf wanted to be together. Besides, the wolf would kick anyone's ass that tried to split them apart. They were lucky to have found each other. Obviously, Drake wasn't as lucky. His mate was in love with someone else. How was that for irony? Not only was Bailey hard of hearing, he was apparently scent deprived too. How could he not know that Drake was his mate? How could he not know that the human smelled right, too? It had hit Drake the minute he'd gotten Bailey into his house and out of his clothes. He was surprised he hadn't caught it sooner, but Bailey had been covered with scents from the bar, and that was Drake's only excuse for not noticing right away that Bailey was it for him. Well, not quite it. There was his certainty about Keith too. The human smelled right, which had freaked Drake out when he'd first realized. He'd caught the scent right outside his door, when he'd gone down to the truck with Keith. It was the main reason he'd propositioned the man, had tried to pull him into whatever was going on with him and Bailey. Drake had first thought it had just been the lingering reaction to Bailey's scent but outside he'd known for sure. There was something unique to the human that drew Drake to him. He wasn't sure what it was but it was definitely there. Smelling both Keith and Bailey when they'd had their little fun time earlier had cemented the knowledge in Drake's mind. The pheromones in the room had been unmistakeable. He just couldn't figure out why he was obviously the only one who had noticed it. Great, and now he'd missed whatever it was that Bailey had said next. He tuned back into the conversation when Bailey let out a low hiss.

Del Fantasma: Duck Fart “What do you mean, he knows I'm here? He can't know I'm here! I told him I was working in the field for two weeks and I know for a fact that he wouldn't call the office... Well, darn it. I'm going to have to tell Adam he knows, right? Adam should know? What if his dad finds out? Wait, if his sister knows he's mated, does his dad know his mate is a man? He freaked out when he caught us kissing and all we did was kiss... Don't tell me to focus! This is important... Fine, okay, I better go... Talk to you tomorrow, Sally.” Drake let out a hiss of his own, hightailing it back to the kitchen. Not that the kitchen was all that far away from the bathroom, but he still didn't want Bailey to catch him right outside the damn bathroom. What the fuck was that all about? Who was Bailey so concerned about? Bailey's dad? Adam's dad? There was obviously more to that story and Drake wanted desperately to find out what it was. He wanted the little Siamese to confide in him. Bailey snicked open the door, sticking his head out. Drake raised his beer bottle in Bailey's direction, trying to calm down. He could practically hear his protective layers snapping in place. Unable to help himself, he smirked at Bailey. “Done?” “Uh, yeah.” Bailey fidgeted, smoothing down his shirt. Drawn to the motion, Drake figured he might as well go on the offensive. No time like the present to convince Bailey they were mates. All the little cat needed to do was stop being so distracted by Adam and let his senses out. Carefully placing the beer bottle on the counter, Drake paced forward smoothly. He rolled to his knees when he got close enough to Bailey, pressing his face into the cat's groin and inhaling the sweet scent of his mate. Damn, that smelled so fucking good. Like everything he'd always wanted, layers of scent he couldn't get enough of. He wanted this. So fucking bad he could taste it. He just didn't know how to get it. Bailey made a startled sound in the back of his throat, one slim hand coming down to grab Drake's head. The little one seemed like he couldn't figure out whether to pull Drake closer or push him away. His fingers fluttered

Jade Buchanan against Drake's feathers, causing shivers to erupt along Drake's scalp. Drake moaned as Bailey's dick started to harden behind the ridiculously pressed jeans. He couldn't imagine Bailey in anything else, though, so it was freaky the preppy look was turning Drake on so much. Course, it wasn't really the look but the man inside that was taking his breath away. Mouth practically salivating, Drake reached up, opening Bailey's jeans and diving inside for his treat. Part of him wanted to imprint himself so deeply on Bailey that the man couldn't inhale without smelling Drake on his skin but he also wanted to taste his mate so bad he might cry if Bailey pushed him away right now. The first taste of salty skin on his tongue nearly did have him in tears and if that wasn't fucking embarrassing he didn't know what was. Bailey tasted like home. His cock was just the right size for Drake to deep throat with ease, but big enough that it would press in all the right places if Bailey ever fucked him. He couldn't wait. Wasn't sure Bailey wanted to do the fucking, but if Drake had anything to say about it, they'd be doing everything they could. Was no point in wasting opportunity. Drake was a proponent of the if-it-feels-good-do-it school of thought. This definitely felt good. What smelled even better was the sudden addition of human pheromones in the room. Yeehaw, they had an audience. Drake moaned around his captured prey, pressing both hands to Bailey's hips to hold him in place. Tongue dancing over tasty flesh, Drake buried his nose in the soft tuft of fur above Bailey's dick. He moved one hand, curling it around the cat's balls, luxuriating in the feel of his furry nut sac. Literally furry. He freaking loved cats. Never fucked one before tonight, never even wanted to really, but now he freaking loved the soft fur against his skin. Quicker than he'd expected, the little balls in his hand drew up. Drake hummed, anticipation making him squirm. Drake released Bailey’s sac, sliding a finger into his mouth alongside

Del Fantasma: Duck Fart Bailey’s dick. Getting it nice and wet, he reached out and ran the digit lightly over Bailey’s pucker. Bailey jerked in his hold, mewling cries filling the room. Testing how tight the man’s hole was, Drake slid just the tip of his finger into Bailey’s ass. Damn, kitten was going to squeeze his cock so good when they finally got to the main event. His own dick was rock hard, dying to get out and play but Drake wanted to wait. Needed to get Bailey off first, taste his salty cum. His wish was granted a moment later when Bailey tossed his head back, fingers pressing into Drake's scalp as he let out a loud keening wail. Drake glanced up, glorying in the sight of Bailey coming to pieces. His mouth filled with thick cream. Drake concaved his cheeks, coaxing more out of Bailey and sliding his finger deeper into Bailey’s ass. He wanted everything this cat could give him. Finally, when Bailey started to whimper, Drake let go and pressed his forehead to Bailey's belly. His hands were shaking. Damn, he wanted to come so badly. Lifting his gaze to Bailey, he slipped his finger out, gratified to see Bailey’s eyes open wide in shock. “I thought you were both coming back to the living room.” Drake snickered when Bailey jumped at Keith's voice. Drake had known he was there but obviously Bailey hadn't heard him come in. Good, at least Drake could suck cock like a pro, enough to distract Bailey from his surroundings. Turning in place, keeping to his knees, Drake glanced at Keith. The man was leaning back against the counter across from them, watching them with a gleam in his eye. Keith didn't look overly put out that they hadn't come back to him. Hell, if the bulge in his jeans was any indication, he'd liked the show. Standing up, Drake adjusted his own dick. Damn thing was pressing against his zipper. He liked the feeling, though, the bite was enough to keep his mind constantly on sex. “Baby just looked too good coming out of the bathroom. I couldn't stop myself.” He smirked, licking his lips. Gratified when Keith's gaze zeroed in on the movement, Drake canted his hips to press his cock harder against his

Jade Buchanan zipper. His arousal had just ratcheted up into the stratosphere with the addition of Keith to the room. Drake had never met anyone who had two mates, so he wasn't sure what to do with the information. He didn't think it was possible. He didn't know who to talk to about it. Drake couldn't go to his parents for obvious reasons, since he'd never met his dad and his mom left when he was a kid. He'd only go to his uncle if things really got desperate but the man was a drunk and had a hard time remembering what day it was let alone anything about supernatural business. He realized he wasn't worth anything and he didn't really deserve to have a mate, but fuck it. He had one. Maybe two. He was keeping them. End of story. Now all he had to do was relax Bailey enough to realize they were mates and then cling to Keith until the human fell in love with both of them the old fashioned way. Keith wouldn't be drawn the same way since he couldn't possibly pick up on the scent layers telling him the truth about who they were. At least, Drake didn't think he could. Hell, he didn't know all that much about humans anyway. Not when it came to mates and sex. “Did you call home okay, Bailey?” Keith turned his attention to the kitty cat behind Drake. Drake wondered if the kitten was going to tell the truth or not. “Uh, yes. I-I... I'm not supposed to be here,” Bailey blurted out. Frowning, Drake wondered where the little one was going with this. “What do you mean,” Keith asked. “San Diego. I told my dad I was on a project with the company I did my practicum with. I didn't want him to know I came out here because he wouldn't have approved of it.” Drake crossed his arms. “Why not?” Would Bailey mention Adam? “I don't know if you remember, but my friend from the bar? My dad hates him. And his dad pretty much hates me too. It doesn't matter. It's just... if my dad found out I was coming out here and everything, then he'd be pretty mad.

Del Fantasma: Duck Fart Is pretty mad. He found out, apparently. At least, according to my friend Sally he knows. I'm supposed to leave immediately and come home. Or they'll send someone out after me to bring me home.” Bailey shifted from one foot to the other. Keith crossed in front of Drake to bring Bailey into his arms. “What are you going to do?” Bailey snuggled into the bigger man. “I'm not sure. I don't want to leave yet. Maybe if I stall for a few days, it'll still be okay. It's fine. I don't want to talk about it anymore.” Pulling away, Bailey looked at the ground. Well, shit. Now what were they supposed to do? Drake needed to change the subject, and fast. “Damn. That sucks monkey balls in a bad way,” Drake pursed his lips. “There’s a good way to suck monkey balls?” Keith snickered. Oh, ho. Drake wasn't going to let this opportunity go to waste. Thankfully, Keith seemed to silently agree with him that they needed to distract Bailey and take advantage of the little guy while they still could. “What? You’ve never thought about there being monkey shifters?” “Fuck.” Keith pressed a hand to his forehead. Drake hid his grin. He wondered if he was giving the other man a headache. “No, no. You won’t be fucking any shifter except for the pussy and duck currently in your house. No monkey's for you.” Keith shook his head, but Drake could see the grin he tried to hide. Ah ha. Sauntering up to Keith, Drake slapped the big man on the ass. “You're next, chubby. Hope you took your vitamins.” He quickened his pace, glorying in the deep growl that sounded behind him. Yeehaw. This was going to be a night to remember.

Jade Buchanan

Chapter Seven

Bailey gripped his jeans, trying to pull them back up. He couldn't believe he'd just been... again. Again! He was having a horrible time trying to convince himself this was real. He was halfway terrified he'd wake up back at his hotel, with a wet spot at the front of his pajama pants. Especially coming on the heels of talking to Sally. He really hadn't been expecting that conversation. He was a little surprised he'd opened up, though. He normally didn't confide in anyone but Sally and Adam. Maybe Drake had fried his brain cells a few moments ago. It was the only explanation for why he'd voluntarily talked about his dad. “Baby, get your ass moving. I want you in here with us.” Glancing up at Keith's voice, Bailey stared after them. Drake was making a beeline for the back of the house, toward where Bailey assumed the bedrooms were. Keith was following him intently, most likely to get him back for that slap on his butt. Reaching out, Bailey pinched himself. “Ow. Okay, this is real.” “Bailey!” Quickly righting himself inside his jeans, Bailey pulled the zipper up, smoothing down the front of his sweater vest. He needed this. For however long it lasted. Just talking to Sally on the phone was enough to remind him what he was doing here in the first place, but it didn't matter. So what if his dad knew he was here to woo Adam? Bailey didn't care if Adam's dad knew either. Well... Adam might care if his dad

Del Fantasma: Duck Fart knew, but none of that mattered because he clearly wasn't going to get to be with Adam. No, instead he was here with two men who turned him inside out and left him reeling. All Bailey knew was that he didn't want this night to end. A small voice chimed in the back of his head to get out while he could still think, but he squashed it. He couldn't leave now. Not until he learned how far they could go. Then he would go back home and live the life everyone else wanted him to. He just needed a few days to do what he wanted. “Bailey!” Keith yelled again. Bailey jerked, quickly realizing he was standing in the hallway by himself. Gingerly stepping forward, he paced toward the sound of Drake and Keith. Stopping in the doorway to what was obviously Keith's bedroom, Bailey wasn't sure if he should back away or jump forward. The two men were clasped tight in an embrace, Keith nearly bending Drake backward. Drake didn't seem to mind. Bailey tried to glance around the room, but he was too distracted by the sight in front of him. He got enough to realize that Keith's bedroom was nearly night and day to what Drake's apartment had looked like. No wonder the man had been so shocked. Inhaling, Bailey tried to draw air into his lungs. He felt nearly faint just watching them. It was so... hot. Indescribable almost. What was it about these two? They smelled fantastic, their scents combining into a sticky-sweet sugary concoction that was nearly blowing his mind. Bailey whimpered, stepping forward and reaching out. He must have done something to grab their attention because Keith reached back with one long arm, grabbing Bailey and drawing him toward them. Bailey squeaked, not expecting the move. He slammed into Keith's side, his mouth captured by Drake before he could draw air. He flushed, his body hot at the thought of where Drake's mouth had just been. Oh, wow, he wasn't going to survive this.

Jade Buchanan Whimpering, his entire body went limp, Keith's hold the only thing keeping him upright. Drake pulled back, releasing his lips. Bailey stared at the other man, unable to think of a single thing. Without warning, he was airborne, slung up in Keith's brawny hold, before the human deposited him on the bed in one smooth movement. Oh, it was really not fair when they worked together. One of these men would be more than enough for Bailey. He almost didn't know what to do with two of them. He might just have a stroke before the night was out. “I don't want you going anywhere, little one. You just sit back and enjoy the show. Drake here's promised me a good time and I'm looking to cash in.” Keith moved away from the bed, reaching out and touching Drake's mouth with the tips of his fingers. Drake started to laugh, nipping Keith's digits. “You better have lube, big guy. I'm looking for more than a good time here.” Bailey parted his lips, stunned. Lube? They were going to... here? Now? In front of him? Oh, he wasn't going to survive this. Mewling, he curled up against the headboard, staring at the two men with big eyes. Grasping the navy comforter in both hands, he twisted the fabric. He was feeling funny again, arousal flowing through his body, his renewed erection startling him. He'd already ejaculated twice tonight. How many more times was he going to find pleasure? “Is that right? And what exactly are you looking for?” Keith's grin was wicked, doing all sorts of bad things to Bailey's stomach. “You want me to spell it out? I want your cock in my ass. I want to feel it tomorrow, so fucking good I can't walk straight. You think you can do that for me?” Eyes nearly ready to pop right out of his head, Bailey could only gasp at the force of Drake's words. Keith growled, low and deep. It was a sound that made Bailey sit up

Del Fantasma: Duck Fart straighter, something that shouldn't come out of the throat of a human. He sounded like the bear he'd resembled when Bailey first set eyes on him. Grabbing Drake around the waist, Keith picked the smaller Mallard up, nearly tossing him onto the bed. Bailey bounced when the mattress heaved under him. Wow, Keith really had a massive bed. They weren't even close to where he was perched at his corner. Clothing ripped when Keith followed Drake down, blanketing the other man and grasping his shirt in his big paws. Drake barely managed to get the cloth over his head before Keith was licking a path down the centre of Drake's chest. Drake didn't seem to mind. In fact, he was doing his best to rip Keith out of his clothes. Red bloomed high on Drake's cheeks, and the other man barely managed to flip Keith over until he was straddling the colossal chest. Bailey wasn't sure how it had happened, but Keith's shirt was now lying beside the bed, his pants unzipped along with Drake's. Drake wormed a hand down into the exposed vee of Keith's jeans, pulling out the biggest, hardest penis Bailey had ever seen. “Oh, yeah, now that's what I'm talking about,” Drake murmured. “Oh my,” Bailey whispered, drawing Drake's attention for a split second. The other man glanced over at Bailey, grinning evilly before sliding down Keith's body, fitting his mouth to the crown of Keith's... thing. As if Drake could hear Bailey's inner monologue, he glanced up, tongue licking along Keith. Parting his lips, he reached out for Bailey. “You remember that talk we had earlier, babe? I promised I'd dirty your mouth. No time like the present.” Bailey couldn't move. He wasn't sure if he wanted to move. Was this really happening? His body was flushed, jittery. He felt unsettled, like his flesh was connected to a live wire or something. His penis was aching, and he couldn't draw a deep breath to save his life right now. “I-I...” Drake chuckled, crooking his finger in a come here gesture. Keith lay still

Jade Buchanan under the duck, eyes on Bailey. Shoring up his nerves, Bailey slowly slid over to where the two men were laying. “Come on, babe. You want to taste his cock, don't you?” “I...” “Say, it. Bails, tell me what you want.” He couldn't. There was no way he'd be able to do that. Shaking his head minutely, he glanced at Keith in appeal. “I'm right here,” Keith crooned, holding out one hand. Bailey remembered when Keith had anchored him earlier. That time it had been Bailey lying down and Keith and Drake angled over him. Grasping the lifeline, Bailey realized he felt just as calm now with the comfort Keith offered. How weird was that? It was just a hand. So, why did it send waves of peace down his body? Keith made him feel safe. Like whatever happened would be okay, as long as he was holding on. Drake reached out, palming the back of Bailey's head in one hand, drawing him closer for another searing kiss. Bailey panted, yearning for more when Drake teased him with the tip of his tongue. It felt so raw, but he couldn't help himself. This was more erotic than anything he'd ever imagined before. “Come on, just taste him. You know you want to,” Drake murmured against his lips. Bailey slid his gaze back to Keith, nearly drowning in the intensity on the other man's face. He could practically feel how much Keith wanted that. Slanting his gaze back to Drake, the feeling was doubled. They both wanted this. How could Bailey deny them when they'd done so much for him already? Besides, he was more than curious. Following Drake's lead, Bailey lifted his free hand, touching the hardness in front of him. It was so different from his own penis, his fingers didn't even go all the way around it. “You're so big,” he gasped. Keith let out a laugh that turned into a moan.

Del Fantasma: Duck Fart Oh, Bailey liked that. Drake urged him on, whispering naughty words in his ear, the sounds barely audible. Bailey felt like he was being compelled by something outside himself. He wanted more. Leaning down, he tentatively licked Keith's penis. The skin was salty, warm and absolutely delicious. Purring, he began to lick all along the veined shaft, loving the rasp of his tongue against Keith's skin. “Fuck!” Keith bellowed. “That's it, babe. Knew you'd like it. Like a duck to water, right?” Drake started to laugh, his hand petting the back of Bailey's hair, fingers rubbing against the fur. Bailey arched his back, urging Drake to pet him more even as he tried to get closer to Keith. His taste was almost intoxicating. He felt like he was overdosing on catnip or something. An overwhelming urge to mark Keith made him pause before rubbing his cheeks along the thick length of the human. “Oh, shit, that's hot. Baby, I hope you're not real comfy there, because I'm needing something in the worst way,” Drake panted. “Lube, Keith?” Wordlessly pointing to the bedside table, Keith clasped Bailey's hand tightly, squeezing and releasing. Bailey purred again, the sawing sound filling the room. Drake disappeared, Bailey barely aware of him in his peripheral vision. Naked skin appeared kneeling beside him on the bed, startling Bailey enough to look up, releasing Keith's penis. A groan filled the air but Bailey was too distracted by the sight in front of him to pay much attention to it. Drake was completely nude, gloriously erect. He was brandishing a bottle of something in one hand and a foil packet that Bailey recognized in the other. “Here, hold this for me, babe.” Drake handed the packet to Bailey. Startled, Bailey reached for it, feeling it squish between his fingers. Hmm, he hadn't expected that. It was an odd sensation. Drake uncapped the bottle, pouring creamy white liquid onto his fingers. With a seductive tilt to his mouth, he kept his gaze on Bailey while he reached

Jade Buchanan behind himself. His body arched, and a moan spilled from between his lips. Bailey gasped, pretty sure he grasped exactly what Drake was doing. Keith tugged on his hand, encouraging him to shift up on the bed. Sitting up, Keith tugged Bailey closer, reaching down with his free hand to try and kick his jeans off. Bailey was too stunned to try and help. “You like that, Bailey?” Keith asked. Bailey nodded, still speechless. “Did you like licking my dick?” Blushing, Bailey ducked his head, keeping his eyes on Drake despite his embarrassment. He just couldn't look away. “You know, I noticed you're still fully clothed while the two of us are naked. We can't have that, can we?” Keith pinched the fabric of Bailey's sweater vest between the fingers of his free hand. His other hand was still grasped tightly in Bailey's hold. Bailey finally dragged his attention away from Drake, glancing at Keith. “What?” Both men started to laugh. Keith bent down for a kiss, nearly drugging Bailey again. He slumped against the bigger man, not even caring to move when Keith released his hand so he could start to undress Bailey. His clothes were systematically removed, one item after another. He felt drugged, like he no longer had control over his body. Bailey could only watch while Keith touched his skin, running his heated palms down Bailey's body. Arching under the firm strokes, Bailey turned his gaze back to Drake, intrigued by the flush of red blooming along his chest. Drake's fingers were still busy behind him, and Bailey suddenly wanted a closer look. “Can you... can I...?” He was pretty sure his face was flaming red, but the curiosity within him wouldn't let him stop. Drake paused, arching a brow. “You want to feel, pretty one? Give me your hand.” Drake practically yanked Bailey across Keith's lap, urging him to reach

Del Fantasma: Duck Fart around Drake's body. Bailey's fingers brushed warm skin before he touched Drake's moving fingers. Oh, oh wow. Bailey mewled, ghosting his fingertips around the opening Drake was pressing into. It was so hot, the skin was so warm. He dipped his index finger, pressing it inside Drake's body, gasping at the loud yell Drake let out. “Fuck, I can't wait. We're going to have to explore more later. The two of you are killing me and little one isn't even aware of it. You, however, know exactly what you're doing, naughty duck.” Keith groaned, wrapping his arms around Bailey's waist and drawing him back across his body and away from Drake. Bailey cuddled up to Keith's side, holding his hand in front of his face. His finger had been inside Drake's body. Inside him! Just like Drake had done to him earlier. Keith grabbed Drake next, dragging the man over him until he straddled Keith's outstretched legs, sitting up in his lap. Bailey licked his lips, watching Drake's bobbing penis as it brushed against Keith. Both men tossed their heads at the contact. Keith gritted his teeth while Drake let out a honking cry. “Condom, I need the fucking condom now,” Keith growled. Drake reached for Bailey, urging him to open his hand. Startled, Bailey hadn't realized he was still holding the thing. He tilted his head, watching as Drake bit open the package, pulling out the piece of plastic-y ring inside. Bailey wrinkled his nose at the smell, wondering how that was going to fit over Keith. He didn't think it was going to work. He reached out, brushing his hand over Keith's penis, trying to measure the girth. Keith hissed, grabbing the condom out of Drake's hand and brushing Bailey away. The bottle of lube was suddenly back in Drake's hand, liquid slathered over Keith's condom-covered shaft. Bailey gasped when Drake lifted himself up, both men pausing in the instant before Keith fitted himself against Drake. Drake reached out, grabbing Bailey's hand and drawing it back to that part of him he'd just touched. “Feel it. Feel him taking me. This is what I want to do

Jade Buchanan to you, Bailey. I want to fuck you so bad I can taste it. My cock inside that warm little hole of yours.” Bailey whimpered, touching the hard shaft of Keith, feeling the give of Drake's hole. The two men were joined in a way Bailey had only fantasized about. Keith grasped Drake's hips with bruising hands, fingers digging into his skin. Bailey couldn't draw his gaze away. Almost without thinking about it, he reached down, palming himself. His penis. No, what did they call it? His cock. Tossing his head back, Bailey saw stars. He couldn't stop himself, couldn't stop the shaft of pleasure that filled his body, the tightening of every muscle as nerve endings danced and sang. He came, hard, ejaculating on Drake and Keith. Hitting their thighs, Drake's cock, Keith's belly. “Fuck,” Keith groaned. He pulled Drake down, lifting his hips at the same time. Yanking Bailey closer to him and Drake, he fit his mouth over Bailey's, swallowing his gasps. Bailey collapsed, shivering against Keith's side and bumping Drake's knee. Squeezing open his eyes, he saw Drake reach down, running his fingers through Bailey's ejaculate and fisting his cock with the same hand. Within seconds he was shooting his own milky seed onto Keith's belly, crying out. Keith yelled, pulling Drake down hard, holding him still. Bailey felt the shudders running through Keith's body, knew what it meant. Bailey couldn't move, could barely draw breath. What was that? What was that? ****

Keith stretched, dislodging the two warm bodies snuggled up to his chest. Chuckling quietly, he had a moment’s thought that this wasn’t how he imagined waking up. Nice, though. Very nice. Picking up Bailey, Keith slid out of the bed before turning and putting the kitten back beside Drake. Little bit weighed next to nothing. He stretched again, feeling the bones realign in his spine. Man, last night was satisfying.

Del Fantasma: Duck Fart Keith grabbed a pair of sweats, sliding them up his long legs. Pacing into the kitchen, he started the coffeemaker, hand covering a yawn. He’d let the two terrors sleep awhile longer. He’d definitely kept them up past their bedtime last night. Hell, maybe he could convince them to stay the day. He already knew Bailey was going back home soon and he wasn’t all that sure whether he wanted to see Drake again after this weekend. Man was fun to hang out with but Keith would surely want to kill him if he was around the duck for too long. He was completely the opposite of what Keith normally went after. There was something off about Drake’s smart ass comments, though, Keith just couldn’t put his finger on it. It was a bit unnerving, whatever it was. Drake was like no one Keith had ever met. He didn't have a convenient box to put Drake in. Couldn't quite figure the other man out. Bailey, on the other hand, was a sweet little kitten. Too bad he didn’t live here. Keith had no intention of doing anything long distance. It just wouldn’t work. A part of him wanted to try it. Wanted to talk to both men and see if something could be done, but he was more practical than that. This was just a fun weekend. Nothing more. Speak of the devil... Bailey walked into the kitchen, wearing only his briefs and rubbing his eyes. Drake was one step behind him, jeans pulled up but not buttoned. Oh, yes, Keith liked the view. “Morning. I didn’t wake you guys, did I?” Bailey shook his head, coming closer and tilting his head up. Keith grinned, leaning down to kiss the puckered lips. Mmm... he lingered over the task, sliding his arms around Bailey’s back and pressing him closer. A knock to his front door interrupted him before things could get interesting. Ah, shit. He had a feeling he knew who was standing outside. “I better get that, I think it might be my dad.” Bailey pulled back, a look of panic on his face. “Your dad?”

Jade Buchanan Turning around, Drake immediately went back into the bedroom, disappearing from sight. Okay, then. “I'll be right back. Don't go anywhere. You might want to put some pants on, just in case.” Bailey squealed, turning and running into the bedroom. Keith grinned, staring after him. Jogging to the front of the house, Keith opened the door before his dad decided to ring the bell. As he expected, his dad and Shirl immediately came inside. Shirl stopped in front of him. “You smell like sex.” Keith took a deep breath. “Good morning to you, too.” “Shirl, no one needs to hear that.” His dad came in, herding Shirl to the side. “Keith, just ignore her.” “Hey, I’ve been doing that since you guys hooked up.” He dodged the punch Shirl aimed at his arm, laughing. A door slammed at the back of the house, causing all three of them to swing around. Keith frowned, recognizing the sound of his back door. Damn, did they leave? He'd told Bailey not to go anywhere. Shit. “You have company?” Keith's dad frowned, a near identical expression on his face to the one Keith was probably wearing. They looked enough alike that people sometimes mistook them for brothers. It boded well for Keith, considering he'd grow old gracefully like his old man. Shirl was the complete opposite of both men. Petite where they were brawny, she was a little blonde and blue-eyed angel. An angel that could bench press a truck, but most people never figured that one out. “It should be obvious he has company, Merv. I just told you the boy smells like sex.” Shirl smirked at Keith, moving into the kitchen before he could stop her. Damn, she could move fast when she wanted to. He followed her, wishing he'd thought to put a shirt on this morning. Not that he could do anything about it right now, but still... he didn't quite like the idea of his stepmom

Del Fantasma: Duck Fart sniffing anything on him. Kind of gross. “So, who'd you bring home? Anyone I know?” Keith's dad followed them in, immediately going to the coffeepot and pouring himself a cup. “No, you don't know...uh. No one you know.” Shit. “What are you guys doing here this morning?” Shirl fixed her intent gaze on him. “You forgot? We're supposed to go to the farmer's market this morning. I was thinking either Little Italy or Hillcrest. But, you obviously have plans.” “Man, I completely forgot. Sorry, guys. I don't know what happened to completely blow my mind like that. Uh... next Saturday instead?” He just knew he was looking sheepish, but damn, it had completely slipped his mind. They didn't get together every weekend or he might have remembered their date. “No worries. At least we've seen you and know you're still alive. Someone needs to keep in touch more. Your mother worries.” Shirl and Keith shared a grin. “She does, does she?” Keith asked. He knew damn well it was his dad that worried. “Hmmph.” A loud racket started up outside, startling Keith. He moved to his back door, looking out toward his shed. What the hell? “Is your houseguest having a bit of trouble outside?” Shirl cocked her head. “Actually, sounds like you have some animals out there. What on earth have you gotten into?” Keith was just as confused as she was. “What kind of animals? Never mind, I'll go check it out. Maybe Mrs. Cannelson's Chihuahua has gotten loose again.” “Unless the Chihuahua has learned to quack like a duck...” Man, what the hell were those two terrors up to? Keith quickened his pace, throwing open the back door and heading for his shed. His dad and Shirl were right on his heels. Now closer to his workshop, he could clearly hear the quacking and hissing. Not sure what he was going to see, Keith entered the

Jade Buchanan shed. “Uh, wow. Didn't expect that.” Keith's dad started to laugh. The combatants either didn't hear them come in or they were too caught up in their little mock fight because they ignored the three newcomers. Keith looked back and forth between the little white Siamese and the fierce brightly colored Mallard. The Mallard kept charging the cat, ducking his head when the cat reached up with his front paws and wrapped them around the duck’s neck. Drake managed to push Bailey over onto his back, his feet scrabbling on the concrete floor. Bailey hissed, trying to bat Drake away. Lashing his tail, Bailey pawed at Drake's head, finally flopping over to his belly and crawling away. Before Keith could blink Bailey had twisted himself around and went on the attack, pushing Drake back toward the doorway. Drake dug his feet in, swishing his ass and moving forward again. Shirl started to laugh, great big guffaws that shook her small frame. “Oh, my. I think you have one frisky little duck here. That looks like he wants to mate the poor kitten. Keith, you want to tell us something?” She smirked up at him. “When'd you get pets?” Keith's dad was frowning, watching the action intently. Keith shook his head, watching them wade through his workshop, narrowly missing the wood he had stacked everywhere. Someone was going to get hurt. Bailey threw himself backward, slamming into a cupboard before Keith realized the danger. As if in slow motion, Keith watched the can of stain he'd placed on top of the cupboard start to fall. A sudden image of himself lightly placing the lid on the can yesterday flashed through his mind. Oh, crap. He lunged for the cat, but was too late. Brown stain splashed down over both Bailey and Drake, coating them in thick liquid before the can and its useless lid clattered to the ground. Drake sounded an insulted honk, while Bailey just

Del Fantasma: Duck Fart mewled pitifully. Bending over, Keith picked them both up, holding one in each hand. Crap, he'd need to get the damn stain off them quickly or this would be a weekend to remember for an entirely different reason. Ignoring the hoots of laughter coming from his parents, he rushed both animals back into his house, sticking them in the kitchen sink before either one could complain. “Was that necessary? Did you really have to wrestle with each other while I was in here trying to get rid of my parents? Damn it, if I'd known you guys were going to do that I would have made sure the lid was on tight when I was using it yesterday morning. If this stain stays on, no sex for either of you for the rest of the day.” Bailey mewled again, blinking big blue eyes up at Keith and batting his hand with one delicate paw. “No, I'm not falling for that. I'm serious about the no sex.” It was Drake's turn to burrow under his hand, obviously trying to suck up. Keith shook his head, trying to hide his grin. They were absolutely adorable covered in brown stain as they were. He turned the water on hot, pouring dish soap into the sink. As expected, Bailey instantly tried to jump out. Keith held him down with a firm hand, soaking the fur and earning himself a disgruntled glare. Shirl came up beside him. “Need help with your boyfriends?” “Uh, someone want to explain this to me?” Keith's dad came up on the other side, looking confused. Shirl smiled at Keith. “I'll take this. Honey, the pretty little lilac point Siamese shifter and the handsome Mallard shifter are the reason your son smells so... earthy... this morning.” She turned back to Keith. “I never thought you'd end up dating two paranormal men, but I couldn't be happier. Wait until I call your mom. She'll be thrilled.” “Don't be engraving the wedding invitations yet. I just met them, Shirl.” “Yes, yes. I hear what you're saying. I'll just get out of your hair, while

Jade Buchanan you're taking care of these two. Come along, Merv. We're going to miss out on all the good deals at the market.” Shirl leaned in, kissing Keith's cheek. “Give me a call, kay? We, uh, we need to talk. Soon.” Keith nodded, grateful all over again that his dad had found Shirl. “See you both later. Next week, I promise, we can do the market.” The two finally made their goodbyes and let themselves out. Keith was left with his two frisky troublemakers, both staring up at him through a cloud of bubbles. He was strangely content. Go figure. “All right, you two. Out with it. What the hell was that?” Drake started to quack, flapping his wings once and getting water everywhere. Soaked, Keith glared at the duck, finally releasing both men. Bailey immediately jumped out of the water, shivering and looking pitiful. Keith shook himself once before crossing his arms over his chest. “Spill it.” Drake was the first to change, a quick melding of feathers and skin until he was standing completely naked in front of Keith. Bailey followed him, hugging his arms as he hopped from one foot to the other. It was making things jiggle in the most interesting way, but Keith was not going to be distracted right now. Damn, but the view was pretty. Shaking his head, Keith cocked his eyebrow, staring Bailey down. He figured the little one would crack first. He was right. “Drake started it!” “I did not!” Drake immediately turned on Bailey, throwing his hands out. “You did too!” Bailey faced Keith, his face earnest. “He wanted to see your shop, but I told him not to.” “Whatever, pussy. You mentioned it first. It was your idea.” Bailey bristled. “Don't call me that!” Keith rubbed his face with his right hand, trying to hide his grin. They were facing off against each other again, both with their hands on hips. “I don't care whose idea it was to go outside. What I want to know is what happened once you were out there.”

Del Fantasma: Duck Fart “Drake—” “I did not!” “I didn't say anything! Keith, tell him to stop—” “Enough!” Keith started to laugh, his entire body shaking with the guffaws he'd been trying to hold in. “Enough. It doesn't matter. God, you guys need a keeper in the worst way.” Both boys were now wearing identical pouts. Fricking cute. The scary thing was that Keith was starting to think about applying for the job.

Jade Buchanan

Chapter Eight

Stepping into the diner, Keith inhaled the myriad of combined scents. Thick grease mingled with the smell of onions and beef. The place was busier than one would think, considering the hour, but Keith wasn't surprised. Chrome and Steel, the diner was off Balboa Avenue and looked like something right out of a movie set. Open 24 hours, it was home to a lot of repeat customers. Like Keith and his parents, actually. He'd been coming here nearly as long as he could remember. Keith walked past the row of booths until he reached the one he wanted. “Okay, spill it.” Shirl stared back at him, nonplussed. “Hello to you, too. Where's my kiss?” Cracking a smile, Keith leaned over the table, bussing her on the cheek. He glanced up as the waitress stopped beside him. “Coffee, please. And I'll have the Crew Works. Thanks.” Waiting until she'd left and returned with his coffee, Keith studied his stepmother. “What's up? You sounded pretty adamant on the phone that I come down here.” “Can't I just want to see you?” She attempted to look innocent. Keith snorted, not even deigning to answer that. He picked up a packet of sugar, shaking it before ripping the top. Watching the grains spill into the black liquid he took his time stirring his coffee. “Okay, fine. I wanted to talk to you about the two gorgeous little men you had in your home Saturday.”

Del Fantasma: Duck Fart Keith lifted his cup to his mouth, sipping carefully. Finally, he set the cup back on the table. Sighing, Keith tried to figure out what she wanted without actually coming out and asking her. “It's the ass crack of dawn. Do we really need to talk now? The sun isn't even up yet.” “Have you seen them since?” she asked, folding her hands. Keith scratched his jaw, thinking of the two men. He'd just met them on Friday, so it was ridiculous that he was still thinking about both men now that the weekend was over. Sure, they'd had fun, but it wasn't as if Keith hadn't had fun with guys before. He was a healthy, adult male. He wasn't much on one night stands now, but he'd had his share back in College and for a few years in his twenties. “It's only been two days since you saw them,” he grumbled. “Is that a yes or a no?” “Damn it, Shirl. Why?” “Just answer the question, Keith.” He sighed, not sure he wanted to talk about his love life with his stepmother of all people. Sure, she was cool and everything but he had to have some privacy, didn't he? Besides, he wasn't sure he wanted to talk about Bailey and Drake anyway. “They left yesterday.” “So...” Keith glanced around, wishing his breakfast was here already so he could eat and not talk. Why had he come again? Oh, right. He hadn't known he was going to be interrogated. Ah, perfect timing. He grinned in relief at the woman standing beside their table with a full plate of steaming hot food. She placed it down in front of him, leaving with a cheery statement to enjoy his meal. Damn, this looked as good as it smelled. He picked up his fork, digging in. Finally clueing himself into the silence from across the table, he glanced up. “What?”

Jade Buchanan “Do you like them?” She arched a brow, sweeping out with one hand. He took another bite of eggs before shrugging. “I guess.” “Keith Michael Henry Malone! I swear, you are so much like your father it's disgusting. Don't play games with me. You do not want me to call your mother so we can take turns questioning you.” No, he definitely didn't want that. “Yes. But, it doesn't matter. Bailey doesn't live here and Drake... I don't know.” “You don't think you have chemistry with him?” An image of Drake popped into his head. The man was something else. Frustrating, for sure, but damned hot. Did they have chemistry? “You want something from me?” Drake tilted his head to the side, looking up at Keith through his lashes. He was spread out on Keith's bed, a sheet barely covering his groin. Acres of creamy skin were on display, green feathered hair a shock of color. Keith wondered if his pubic hair would grow into green feathers, as well. Drake was completely bare at his groin, which was a turn on in itself but it didn't stop Keith from wondering what that tasty dick would look like surrounded by bright plumage. Fuck, that was an image he liked. Yeah, they had chemistry. No question. “So, what's the problem, then?” Shirl asked. “I don't know, Shirl. I don't think I could date just Drake. Without Bailey there, I'm not sure we'd have anything.” It was a pretty excuse, even he could see that. What was it about the duck that sat wrong? No, not wrong. Just odd. “Well, maybe you just need to get through his shield.” Damn it, he hated vamps sometimes. “What shields?” “Sweetheart, I know I taught you better than that. It was extremely obvious even from the minute amount of time I spent with them that the duck is shielding something terrible. He's probably been hurt in the past. Did he tell you anything about himself?” Keith raised his coffee, draining the rest of the cup. “Honestly, no. Not much, at least, other than to say both his parents split on him. We really weren't all that interested in talking a lot of the time.”

Del Fantasma: Duck Fart The majority of Saturday had been spent sleeping and fooling around. He'd fucked Drake again and finally gotten his lips around Bailey's little pride and joy. The kitten had still been shy, so neither he or Drake had pressured him into anything further. It had been incredible, anyway. Anything more and his head might have exploded from all the pleasure. They hadn't really shared all that much in terms of personal information. Every time things got even a little serious, Drake would try to initiate sex or Bailey would freeze up and they'd end up kissing him back to normal. By that time, things were usually too heated for anything but sex. Between that, and Bailey checking his cell phone every two hours, Keith wasn't sure he even wanted things to get a little more serious. He had a feeling that he'd be the one hurt out of the three of them, in the long run. When Drake had checked out early on Sunday on some trumped up excuse, he figured it was the best thing for all of them. Bailey ended up getting a ride back to his hotel with Drake and Keith had spent the day in his shop. Trying to forget them, to be honest. “Hmm, interesting.” Okay, now that was annoying. “What, Shirl?” “Sounds to me like the boy is used to people running out on him so he probably splits first. I'm guessing he was the one who first brought up leaving. Am I right?” “Umm... so, I think I should go.” Drake stood in front of him, dancing from foot to foot. Bailey lifted his head from where he'd been resting against Keith's chest. The two men had been snuggled on the couch, not doing anything really. Drake had been in the kitchen, but now he was the only one of them fully dressed. Keith stretched, dislodging Bailey. Standing up, towering over Drake, he frowned. “Why? You guys don't have to leave right away.” There really wasn't any reason why they had to leave right at this moment unless Drake had somewhere else he had to be. Keith had done laundry yesterday afternoon and thrown their clothes in. He'd had fun chasing the two naked men around the house

Jade Buchanan while they waited for their stuff to dry. Heck, he'd even let them borrow his toothbrush so no one felt disgusting. They'd practically spent the last 24 hours in bed anyway. There wasn't any need for them to go outside. “I'm just... it's time to go, you know?” Maybe Drake was right. This was completely out of normal for Keith. He couldn't believe he'd invited two practical strangers into his home on Friday night and now here he was on Sunday practically ready to beg them to stay. What the hell was wrong with him? Moving a tad bit fast now. Hell, he was practically ready to engrave the wedding invitations, and wasn't that a stupid thought? There was no way he should be even thinking things like that. Bailey was leaving and Drake wasn't exactly marriage material. Keith would have to tape his mouth shut before introducing him to his friends. Keith shook his head, dispelling the memory. “Shit.” He pushed his plate away. He suddenly wasn't hungry anymore. “Hmm.” Shirl sat back, an impassive expression on her face. “Damn it, don't do that.” “Do not swear in front of me, Keith.” “Fine. I'm an a-hole. An f-ing a-hole.” “Why?” He'd treated Drake exactly the way everyone else must. Going off his appearance and his habit of talking like he was tough, Keith hadn't even bothered to look deeper. Damn it. What was wrong with him? He suddenly remembered the look of shame that had crossed Drake's face back when they were in the duck’s apartment. Even then, Keith had practically looked down on him. His parents hadn't raised him to be a fucking snob. Drake had nothing to be ashamed of. No, it was Keith who needed to get down on his knees and apologize for being such a fucking asshole. Shirl slapped him on the side of the head, grabbing his attention. “Ow! What the hell?” “I've said your name three times, Keith. Now, pay attention. This is

Del Fantasma: Duck Fart important.” He didn't think he'd ever seen her this serious before. “What's wrong? Is dad okay? Do you need my help for something?” “Everything with us is fine, sweetheart. This is about you.” She rested both elbows on the table, leaning forward. “I know you didn't have much exposure to all things supernatural before I met your dad, but you have learned a bit in the years since.” “Yeah, I guess. Between dad meeting you and mom meeting Eddie, I've had a bit of a crash course. Well, that and Cody over at the bar. Which, I guess is all thanks to you since you introduced me to the man.” Not to mention the little kitten and duck he'd spent the weekend with. “Right, so... What do you know about mates?” “In what sense? Like shapeshifters? I think Eddie called mom his mate a few times. It's like a primal connection, right? I guess it's just a good thing mom was already divorced when she met Eddie. I can't imagine being with someone else and meeting your one true love.” He really couldn't imagine that. It would have been horrible. Not to mention, his dad and Shirl were perfect for each other. His parents splitting up was really the best thing that ever happened in their family. “Right, exactly. So... is that the only time you've heard of mates? Nothing else? No one else has ever talked about it? A little more recently?” He wasn't sure what she was getting at and his coffee obviously hadn't had enough time to make it to his brain. “That's it, Shirl. Why?” Shirl reached across the table to grab one of his hands in her iron grip. “Sweetheart, I don't know how to tell you this. Those sweet little boys you had in your house? They smelled like your mates. Both of them.”

****

Jade Buchanan Bailey stood back, smiling at the sight of all the quacking Mallards. Why was he here? He couldn't figure it out, even after he'd arrived at the zoo and paid his entrance fee. Wandering around the zoo had been an experience in itself, exactly the thing he needed to distract himself from everything around him. He lingered over the big cats, having a giggle when one of the tigers noticed him and hissed out a greeting. He hoped the fellow was in there voluntarily. The shifter was probably in the area as a dare. Bailey continued on, each attraction nearly mind-boggling. He didn't think he'd be able to see everything in one visit. The zoo was massive. And then he'd found the Duck Pond. Right at feeding time, too. The Duck Pond was packed with more than just ducks. Birds of all kinds filled the area to overflowing. They were so noisy he had to stop himself from putting his hands to his ears to try and block out the noise. The keeper was pouring duck pellets into the water when Bailey first arrived. He had mice and fish for some of the other birds too. Bailey recognized the big herons and after a quick question to the keeper he was shown the cattle egrets, cormorants, darters and the “spoonies” or spoonbills. The spoonies were eating right out of the keeper's hand. Bailey couldn't believe it. The herons were trying to eat everything in sight and birds everywhere were either noisily going after breakfast or patiently sitting back and watching the antics of the others same as Bailey was. But, it was the Mallards that captured his attention right now. Emerald caps glinting in the sunlight, majestic and beautiful. They reminded him so much of Drake. All loud and blustery. He giggled at the antics of one Mallard in particular. The little guy was smaller than the rest, but he kept pushing forward, biting anyone that got in his way. Man, he was loud. He was having so much fun he almost didn't want to leave. Finally, the keeper was finished with feeding time and the birds all settled

Del Fantasma: Duck Fart down somewhat. Bailey gave a last lingering glance at the Mallards before deciding to move on to the next exhibit. Glancing down at his cell for the fifteenth time, he wondered if he should call Adam back. He'd finally gotten up the nerve yesterday to call Adam about what Sally had told him, but he'd gotten Adam's voice mail. He'd left a quick message to let him know that Bailey's dad knew he was here and he wasn't sure if that was important or not but he wanted Adam to know. He wasn't too sure what he'd have said to Adam if his friend had actually answered his phone, but he was glad for the reprieve anyway. Should he be sorry for what he did with Keith and Drake? Adam didn't have to know about that, right? He wouldn't ask. Why would he ask? He'd probably be wondering why Bailey ran out of the bar on Friday night. It was now a few days later and Bailey still hadn't talked to him in person. Heck, maybe he should have answered the phone the first time Adam called on Saturday. He really hadn't wanted to talk to Adam when he was walking around in his underwear at Keith's house, though. Should he try to contact either Drake or Keith? Neither man knew how to get ahold of him. Drake had made a few noises about following him to his hotel when he'd dropped Bailey off at Del Fantasma to pick up his car but they'd ended up parting ways in the parking lot. Bailey knew where both men lived, of course, but he wasn't sure he'd be able to navigate to their place in his rental car. He never did notice their addresses anyway, so it probably wouldn't work. They hadn't said anything about keeping in touch, after all, and Bailey wasn't sure what the right move was to make in this kind of circumstance. Did he just have a one night stand? Two night stand? Was there such a thing as a two night stand? It shouldn't matter. He had to leave soon, anyway. His phone rang in his hand, startling him into dropping it on the ground. Scrambling to pick it up, he quickly pressed the talk button. “Hello?” “Bailey?”

Jade Buchanan Uh oh. Maybe he should have checked the Caller ID first. “Adam?” “Hey, I've been trying to get hold of you. How are you?” “Uh... fine. You?” He fidgeted, bringing his free hand up to rub along his hairline. “I'm okay. I'd like to see you, if you wanted to come down to Del Fantasma for a bite to eat. Or, well, I guess I could come to you, but I still don't have a car here and Marcus is out running errands so I'm kind of stuck at work. Cody said I could take a few minutes off, though, to talk to you and touch base and all that. So?” Bailey smiled, immediately calmed just hearing the familiar babble. “Yeah. Yeah, I can do that. Um... give me a few minutes. It won't take long, though, since I still have my rental car. See you soon.” “Bye!” Adam sounded a lot cheerier as he hung up the phone. It took Bailey awhile longer than he'd anticipated to make his way to Del Fantasma. He stood outside the bar, surprisingly a lot calmer than he'd been on Friday when he'd stood in this exact spot trying to convince himself to go inside and see Adam. Here he was again, but it was almost like he was a different person now. He couldn't figure out what it was, but it had to be attributed to his weekend with Drake and Keith. Gathering his courage, he slipped inside to a much quieter bar. The last time he'd been here he hadn't been able to hear himself think. It was a lot toned down, now. He could see why people would come here, at this time of day. It was nice. A quiet neighbourhood pub atmosphere. He scented his friend before Adam popped up beside him. “Hey, Bailey! I'm glad you didn't leave. I wasn't sure how long you were going to be here. My sisters didn't tell me you were coming. How long are you here for?” Adam accompanied his words with a warm hug, holding Bailey close. Bailey snuggled in, breathing his friend's scent into his lungs. He could definitely smell the wolf on Adam, but it was a surprisingly nice combination.

Del Fantasma: Duck Fart Friendly. Comforting. Not at all arousing as Drake and Keith's scent. Hmm... he wondered what that meant. Was it because they had sex? “Come on, let's grab a table in the back. It's pretty quiet this morning. Not a lot of people come to the bar during the day. We're a lot busier at night. Of course.” Adam laughed, bright and cheerful. They had barely sat down when the vampire from Friday appeared at their side. “Food for you boys?” Adam shrugged, turning to Bailey. “Maybe we can just have a few oh doves, or something.” Bailey wasn't sure he could keep anything more down. He was feeling a bit lightheaded again. Cody cocked his head. “Pardon?” “Um... horse durves?” He glanced at Adam, imploring his friend to jump in at any time. Adam started to snicker, shrugging his shoulders. Cody didn't even crack a smile. “I'll gather up a few appetizers for you two, then. Just sit back and enjoy.” Bailey glanced at Adam when the vampire had left. “What are they called?” he whispered. “Hors D'Oeuvres. Don't worry about it. Marcus had to correct me the other day. You'd think they'd print the pronunciation somewhere.” “Hey, what's he doing here anyway? Come to think of it, Keith's stepmom was out in the sun too.” “You've been watching too many Dracula movies, Bailey. Honestly.” Adam giggled, his whole face lighting up. “Huh. Well, you learn something new every day.” Bailey shrugged. “I'm glad you're here, Bailey. I missed you.” “I missed you too. How... how are you?” “Good. I'm... well, I guess you know I found my mate.” Bailey nodded, not sure what he was supposed to say to that. “When?” “Just a few days ago, actually. I wasn't expecting it, trust me. I... well, I'll be

Jade Buchanan honest with you. I haven't had the best time of things up to this week. I got into a bit of trouble with my landlord, and couldn't figure out how to get out of it.” Bailey sat forward. Trouble? Oh, that didn't sound good. “Scott, my landlord, emptied my bank account. I couldn't tell dad, you know why. He hasn't exactly been the most supportive person and I really didn't want to hear him say I told you so. I managed to get a job here, though. My sister gave me Cody's phone number and he's been real good to me. Even when I didn't do a good job. I owe him a lot. Besides, he's the one who introduced me to Marcus, so I'm a bit in his debt right now.” “So, you're good now? What happened to your landlord?” “Oh, don't worry about him. Marcus and I took care of him. He won't be bothering me again.” Adam grinned, a mischievous tilt to his lips. Bailey figured there was more to the story, but he'd let Adam tell it at his own pace. It was nice, just sitting here like this with him. Like old times. Back when they'd been nearly inseparable. “I guess you won't be coming back.” He didn't even bother to make it a question. “No. Marcus is here. I think I can make a life here. I'll miss my sisters being around all the time. I'll miss you, and the rest of our friends. But, Marcus is my life. I can't even imagine being away from him.” Something inside Bailey's chest loosened at the words. Strange. He wasn't even upset. Adam's words felt right. Like they were supposed to be. What did that mean? Adam stood up, scratching behind his ear. “I'm just going to run to the little boy's room before Cody comes back with our food. I'll just be a minute.” Bailey nodded, distracted. There was something sitting just outside his senses, but he couldn't quite figure out what it was telling him. Some days he wished his father had spent more time talking about practical stuff and less time pushing him into his academic studies. He felt like he should know something. Only, what?

Del Fantasma: Duck Fart

Chapter Nine

“Hey, Drake. You off?” Drake glanced up at the voice, sliding his books into his bag before slinging it over his shoulder. “Yep. Glad to be out of this joint.” He watched his friend come closer, practically loping across the room. Jake stopped in front of him, throwing his own bag down to the table that Drake was vacating. “Tell me about it. Hey, when you defending?” “Week from tomorrow.” He wished it were here already, but he was confident his thesis was solid. It'd be a piece of cake standing in front of the panel and talking about his work. “Nervous?” “Nah. I've got this one.” Drake shared a grin, waving goodbye as he headed out of the room. “See you in the morning.” “I'll be here. Have a good night.” Heading to his parking spot and his trusty rust bucket, Drake quickly made his way off the UCSD campus. It'd been an early start for him, and despite the fact that it was still morning, he was practically ready for bed. This had been the only time he could schedule time in the lab. It was ridiculously hard to do lately, which was one of the reasons he'd had to leave Keith's house yesterday so he could hit the lab in the afternoon. When you managed to get one of the research labs booked you did not miss your time. Especially this close to finally finishing for good. He didn't want to go home, though, no matter how tired he was. He fully intended to go back to the scene of the crime.

Jade Buchanan He wasn't sure why he hadn't mentioned the truth on Friday night. Or Saturday. Or yesterday, for that matter. He'd even been given the opportunity, back when Keith slammed his home. All he'd had to say was that he couldn't afford anything more when all his money was going toward tuition, but he hadn't said anything. It wasn't that he was embarrassed or anything. No, it was more that he was used to people looking down on him. What he'd said to Keith was right, he'd had to fight for everything he had. He had nearly dropped out of High School, but had hung on by the skin of his teeth. Nothing came easy to him. Not that he expected it and honestly he knew there were people worse off than he was. Still, going to University was the first thing he had that he'd been proud of. Something so easy and simple for someone like Bailey or Keith hadn't been easy for him. But, he'd made it. And he'd liked it. Which explained why he was still here years later so damned close to getting his PhD that it wasn't even funny. So, he wasn't quite sure why he hadn't told his mates. He just hadn't felt like the timing was right. Yeah, right, like he'd get another shot. Bailey was probably on his way back to wherever he came from and Keith was most likely glad to see the back end of Drake. Drake was an ass. He fully realized that. He was just so used to being defensive about everything. Hell, even his thesis was cause for problems some days. He'd decided to focus on homosexuality in the animal kingdom, which explained why he was at UCSD. They had a pretty kick ass Biology department. In his opinion, anyway. Sighing as he pulled into the DF parking lot, he resigned himself to a lonely drink to celebrate his successful consult with his Professor. Not that he needed a reason to go have a drink, but he preferred to pretend it was over something other than crying about his lack of mates. Yesterday he'd finally come to the realization that he had to let them go. For now, at least. Didn't mean it was for good. Hopefully, Bailey would go

Del Fantasma: Duck Fart back home and quickly realize he couldn't live without them. Maybe Keith would come running too, if Drake left him alone for a few days... or weeks. Not months. He couldn't last months. Drake was no good at chasing after people and while Bailey might be warm and giving, Drake definitely wasn't. He couldn't be what Keith obviously wanted. He wasn't blind, he'd seen the way Keith had looked at Bailey. He'd seen the way Bailey had looked at his phone when he didn't think they were looking. And he'd seen the way they'd both looked at him. Or, rather, the way they hadn't looked at him. Yeah, it was better to sit back for now. When the time was right he'd figure out how to go after them. Maybe he should talk to Cody. He was sure the vampire would know what to do. The man was batting a hundred on his matchmakings after all. It was rumored he was even responsible for the heavenly Adam finding his wolf. Gag me, Drake thought. He hoped the damned pussy wasn't here today. Pulling his keys out, he got out of his car, locking the door behind him. Breathing deeply, he was loving the salty sea air. Laced with human? “Drake?” Drake frowned, twirling in place at the sound of Keith behind him. Man, this day was just getting better and better. Yeah, not really. Fuck. What was Keith doing here? Drake so wasn't ready to face him yet. He'd had the hardest time leaving yesterday. He couldn't afford to act like a lovesick fool now. Girding his loins, he plastered a smile on his face. “Hey, big boy.” Cocking his hip to the side, Drake lifted his hand in a practiced wave. Keith chuckled, startling Drake when he leaned in and pulled Drake into a hug. Keith nuzzled the side of his neck before placing a kiss to his jaw. Drake would have purred — except for the whole not-a-cat thing — it felt so damned good. Shit, it felt too good. “Well, hello there. Someone's happy to see me?” He couldn't help the

Jade Buchanan question. What was Keith up to? The man hadn't been all that sad to see him leave yesterday. He wasn't helping the situation right now. “Definitely happy to see you. I was coming in to talk to Cody and see if he could play matchmaker again.” Drake bristled, feeling his back straighten like a fucking poker. “You damned well better be matched up with me and my kitty cat.” Shit, he hadn't meant to say that. The words had practically leapt off his tongue. Keith cocked his head to the side. “So... that means you know about...?” Inhaling deeply, Drake studied the other man. If he didn't know better he'd think Keith had figured out they were mates. Nah, that'd be stupid. The guy was a human. With a vamp stepmother. Damn. Did that mean? “Know about what?” “Okay, I'm just going to say it. Shirl says we're mates.” Drake lowered his gaze, unable to hold Keith's. It sounded perfect. He wasn't sure he deserved it, but man did he ever want to try. Nodding around the lump in his throat, he gestured toward the door. “Huh. Is that what she said?” “Drake?” Keith's hand brushed his chin, raising it. Looking up into Keith's gaze, Drake didn't know what to say. He had a plan and Keith was ruining it. This was too good to be true. “Hey, it's okay. One step at a time, right?” Keith leaned down and kissed him briefly before Drake could pull away. Shit. Why did the human have to be so damned good? Drake pulled on his happy face again, knowing it was a bit battered at the moment, but not knowing what else to do. He had a plan. A stupid plan, but he didn't think he'd survive if Keith changed his mind and left. He was human. What did he know about being mates? Was he even feeling the same thing? It was quite a fucking turnaround from yesterday. “Want to go inside and grab a drink?” Keith asked. “A duck and a human walk into a bar...”

Del Fantasma: Duck Fart “Stop it,” Keith rumbled, a smile pulling up the corners of his lips. “Come on, you have to admit it’s the perfect start for a kick ass joke.” More comfortable now, he shot an apologetic glance to Keith. The human would just have to get used to it. This was who Drake was and he couldn't just change. Keith held open the door, shaking his head when Drake bumped his hip on the way past. Drake caught the edge of a grin Keith was obviously trying to hide. Stepping inside, Drake stopped on the threshold. Lifting his head, he sniffed, not even trying to be discreet about it. There was something familiar in the air. “Hey, do you smell kitten?” “I can't smell anything. Get used to it.” Keith started toward the bar, reaching back to tow Drake with him. Drake evaded his hand, certain there was something here. He just needed to... ah, there. Grabbing Keith's hand and pulling in the opposite direction, Drake led them toward the back of the bar. “Drake.” “Trust me. He's here.” His line of sight finally opened up, and Drake spied his prey sitting all alone in a corner booth. Smiling toothily, Drake sped up his pace. “I spy with my little eye a tasty little pussy.” Bailey jerked, his shoulders rising. “Don't call me that!” “Hey, beautiful. What brings you to my neck of the woods?” Drake couldn't contain his grin. Despite his promise to stay away from them, he was too shaken to avoid Bailey right now. Maybe... maybe things could work out after all. Bailey obviously hadn't left. Besides, it was almost as if fate was pushing them together. Why else would they all be in the bar at the exact same time. Just like on Friday. It was just too perfect. Ducking his head, Bailey glanced shyly at the two of them. “Hi, Drake. Hello, Keith.”

Jade Buchanan “Hey, kitten. Good to see you.” Keith stepped around Drake, leaning down to kiss Bailey. Drake suddenly froze, inhaling deeply. He literally felt his ire settle around him like a cloak. “Why the fuck do you smell like your tabby friend?” He knew things were too good to be true.

****

Bailey stood up, trying to figure out what to say to Drake. He was obviously operating under a mistaken impression. Why was he so upset? From the glare on Keith's face, he wasn't very happy either. What was going on? Drake bristled. “What the fuck? You couldn't wait to get rid of us, could you? Just wanted to run back to Adam and see what could happen. You know what's wrong with this picture? It's the fact that you're so damned scared to move forward with me and Keith. You're scared it's something you want, so you're just going to sit there and pretend you're still in love with your best friend when everyone around can see that he's never felt that way about you and you don't have a chance in hell of changing his mind. And you don't want to change his mind. Admit it!” Bailey gasped, slumping back down into his seat. What was... oh no. No. What was Drake talking about? How did he know about Adam? Drake backed up, moving away from Bailey. “Adam's safe, I get it. Saying you're in love with Adam is safe because you don't have a chance with him. But, you have a chance with two men who care about you, and you fucking won't take it because you're fucking scared! I knew this would happen. Fuck it, I knew better. You're just like everyone else. Why should I have expected anything different?” Bailey's chest was tight, his eyes achingly heavy. He was a split second from bursting into tears and he had no clue what to say. What was Drake

Del Fantasma: Duck Fart talking about? His heart felt like it was breaking from the force of Drake's anger and the underlying sorrow he could sense like it was his own. What was going on? “Bailey?” No. Oh no no no. Bailey closed his eyes, trying to pretend that Adam wasn't standing beside the table. Had the other man heard what Drake said? Of course he did, the entire bar heard what Drake said. Bailey finally opened his eyes, staring straight at a furious and very unrepentant Drake. He knew. He'd known the whole time that Adam was there. He had to have, and he still said those things. He'd purposely told Adam about Bailey's feelings for him. How could he? Bailey desperately wanted a hole to open up so he could bury himself in it. This wasn't happening to him. It was all just too insane. Fleeing right now sounded about right. Turning, uncaring about Drake or Keith or Adam or anyone else, Bailey fled outside. He made it to his rental car before the first sob came out. Footsteps scuffed the ground behind him, a familiar scent wafted toward him. “We need to talk.” Bailey sniffed, not sure he wanted to have this conversation right now. He knew what Adam was going to ask before the other man even opened his mouth. “What?” “You know what. Is it true? Frog legs! Can you please turn around and look at me? Bailey.” Adam touched Bailey's arm. He finally swung around, meeting Adam's concerned gaze. Staring at the other man he tried to put what he was feeling into words. He'd had so much happen this past week that it almost seemed unreal. What did he really want? Was Drake right? Were his feelings for Adam nothing more than him needing safety? Knowing that there was no way Adam would go for him even if he was single? They'd been best friends for years and

Jade Buchanan they'd only shared one kiss. Surely more would have happened if they were meant to be. No, he couldn't lie to himself anymore. He didn't love Adam. They definitely weren't mates, and if he was honest, he'd figured that out this weekend. Maybe he'd still think his feelings for Adam were true love if he hadn't met Drake and Keith. What he felt for those two was so huge he almost couldn't describe it. Drake was wrong about one thing, though. He wasn't scared, he was... “I'm an idiot.” Adam smiled, tilting his head to the side. “Yeah, I could have told you that without you having to come out to San Diego.” Bailey started to laugh, nearly bending double with guffaws when Adam joined in. They ended up holding on to each other, trying to find their breath. Bailey felt like a huge weight had just lifted off his chest. He wasn't in love with Adam. He was in love with Drake. And Keith. And he was most definitely an idiot. “Whatever he just said in there, whether parts of it are true or not... it doesn't matter. You're my best friend, Bailey. I know you. I see you,” Adam said. Bailey looked up, finally calming down. “I'm sorry you had to hear that. It's not...” “Doesn't matter. He shouldn't have said it, anyway. What else can you expect from ducks, though, huh?” Adam smirked, ducking when Bailey pushed him. “He's right. Well, not about that. But, I did come here after you.” “I figured you did. We're friends. Why wouldn't you come after me? I'm glad you're here. I'm glad you got even a weekend away from your dad. He's exactly like my dad, and it took moving across the country for me to realize I can't please him and never will. Maybe you had to do the same.”

Del Fantasma: Duck Fart “Yeah, I think you're right. I just don't know what to do now. I...” “You met them.” Bailey nodded, turning and hugging his arms to his chest. “I met them. I never thought there were people like that, Adam. I mean, I'm not stupid. I just never expected that they could make me feel the way they did. Do. Everything's different with them. Brighter, shinier, bigger. I don't know what to do about it. I don't want to go home. Not now.” Adam skipped around him until they were face to face again. “Don't worry about it. Things have a habit of working out around this place. Besides, you have your mates now. They're not going to let you leave, even if you wanted to. Even if the Mallard is a bit unhappy. He'll calm down eventually. Especially if you kiss him better.” Adam giggled. Bailey felt his knees turn to jelly. “Mates?” Adam froze, staring at him. “You don't know?” “Know what?” “Bailey, come on. I could smell them on you when you first came in here. I was just waiting for you to say something when the duck started all that back there. I figured you knew.” “No, no no no! They can't be my mates... I couldn't possibly be that blind. How did I-I... oh, man.” Bailey was flabbergasted. “Mates?” “You do realize that what you just described is exactly how I feel with Marcus, right? It’s the mating urge. They complete you. Their strengths fit your weaknesses and your strengths shore up their weak points. You’re meant to be together. Can’t you feel it?”

Jade Buchanan

Chapter Ten

Keith barely had time to take all that in before Drake was speeding out of the bar like his tail was on fire. Expecting him to follow Bailey, Keith was left floundering when Drake headed toward his own car instead. Oh, fuck. This so wasn't how he'd pictured this happening. When Shirl had talked about the whole mating thing she'd admitted that both men should have realized it this weekend. If not before they had sex then definitely after they had sex. Something about scents and all that. Most of it had gone over his head but it was enough for him to realize that he wanted to see what could happen with them. She'd said they'd be feeling the same way. Which was why he'd hightailed it to Del Fantasma to get some advice from Cody. Now, he just wanted a do-over. Running after Drake, he managed to catch up with the man just as he reached his car. “What the hell, Drake?” he asked, grabbing the duck's arm. Drake surprised him by pulling free. The other man balled a fist and punched Keith in the chest. “I'm not doing this. I'm not going to sit here and watch him chase after Adam.” “Adam? What does this have to do with Adam?” What the heck had he missed? Damn supes. Rubbing a hand over the spot Drake had hit, he stared him down. He felt like he was the only one flying blind here. “Are you simple? Bailey came here chasing after Adam. That night? It was the night he found out Adam was mated to the big bad wolf. That's why he

Del Fantasma: Duck Fart came home with me. That's why he had sex with us. That's why he's back here sniffing after his friend.” Drake inhaled, lowering his chin to his chest. “I'm not doing this,” he whispered. “Ah, damn. Don't do that.” Half panicking, Keith pulled Drake close. He ignored the faint struggles and held on tight. Drake's body shuddered before he finally melted into Keith. Keith ran his palms up and down Drake's back, trying to soothe him. “Okay. So, I'm missing a few pieces of information. I have a feeling you've been holding out too. That's fine. I don't care. What I do care about is that we find a way to fix this. It doesn't matter if Bailey thinks he's in love with Adam. He belongs to us. Hell, I don't understand any of this. But, if there's one thing I've learned from watching my mom and Eddie and dad with Shirl it's that this is good. We can have something good here. I'm not letting us fuck it up right out of the gate.” Drake squirmed, trying to pull free. Keith finally let him. He cupped Drake's face with both palms before the duck could get entirely loose. He wanted to make sure Drake understood this next part clearly. “I'm taking control from both of you and I don't care if you don't like it. You're mine. End of story.”

****

“Oh, thank fucking Jehoshaphat.” Drake threw himself back into Keith's hold, practically sucking the man dry. His lip cracked under the bruising pressure but he could care less at the moment. He'd never thought he'd feel this way but for the first time in his life he felt protected. Hearing Keith say he was taking control cracked something inside Drake. That wall inside himself that he shored up when things got too serious, or when he expected people —or himself — to screw up.

Jade Buchanan The wall he placed between himself and everything that really, truly mattered. For the first time in his life he felt like he could actually trust someone else. Who would have thought it'd be a human who made him feel that way? Damn, this felt right. Perfect. Actually, almost perfect. He slowly pulled away, pressing a last lingering kiss to Keith's mouth. Tonguing the split in his lip, he angled a sly look toward Keith. “All we need is a pussy and we'll have the perfect relationship.” Keith's eyes lit up. “I'm sure we can find us one of those somewhere around here.” Cackling, Drake so wanted to do a little dance in the parking lot. Trying to at least pretend he was cool, he refrained. Wait a minute. He wasn't one to look a gift horse in the mouth, but... “Didn't this all happen a little fast? You're human. Why'd you just accept it?” Shrugging, Keith inched closer. “I'm thirty four. Compared to you and kitten, I've had a few more years experience. I'm ready to discover what we can have together. Sure, the whole mate deal does make a few things easier. We know we'll get a happily ever after at the end of all this, but right now I'm more interested in the journey we can make together. You guys did something to me this weekend. Hey, no jokes!” Keith clamped a hand over Drake's mouth just as he was about to make a sarcastic quip. Yeah, he was going to try and work on that instant reaction. With an arch look, Keith continued. “After watching dad and Shirl and my mom and Eddie, I figure I'm more comfortable in your world anyway. What they have together is magic. Maybe literally. But, I've watched how happy my parents have been over the years and to be honest, a part of me has always wanted that. “Why would I pass this up? It's a chance at the kind of happiness my mom and dad have found. I'm not an idiot. I'm also not going to rush into anything, though. I want to do this right. So, no undying promises of love yet. In time,

Del Fantasma: Duck Fart definitely. But, we need to take things as they come. Together, though. I'm putting my foot down about that one. I'm not letting you two go. Get used to it.” The sound of pounding feet interrupted what Drake was going to say next. He smelled Bailey before the man barrelled into him. Letting out an oof of air, Drake stumbled back, holding Bailey close so neither man pitched to the ground. Bailey pulled back his arm, slapping Drake on the back. “You were gone! I went back into the bar and you were gone. Don't ever do that to me again. I thought I'd lost you.” Drake froze. What the hell? “Bailey?” Keith frowned at Drake, probably just as confused. “I'm sorry, I'm sorry, I'm sorry. I'm an idiot. The world's biggest idiot. I don't even have an excuse. I just didn't expect it and I'm so sorry. I'll do anything to make it up to you, just please don't leave me.” Drake tightened his hold, pulling Bailey even closer. The little kitten was sobbing, the sound damned near breaking his heart. Helpless, he gazed imploringly at Keith. He didn't know what to do. “Shh, it's okay. Don't cry, Bailster. Please don't cry.” He kissed Bailey on the temple. Bailey pressed up against his lips. Gratified by the movement, Drake kissed his way down Bailey's face until he was presented with full, red, pouting lips. Bailey's eyes were closed, tears wet his cheeks and his nose was a little drippy but Drake didn't care. He just wanted Bailey to stop crying. Pressing their lips together, Drake swallowed Bailey's moan. Delving his tongue into the sweet mouth, Drake tried to tell Bailey without words what he meant to them. He hadn't expected the other man to run after them. Knowing that Bailey was this upset about the thought of them leaving was strangely gratifying but he still felt guilty for causing Bailey even a moment's pain. He hadn't wanted that. He just wanted to prevent himself from being

Jade Buchanan hurt. “Come on, boys. Let's take this home.” Keith rubbed Drake's back, distracting him from the taste of Bailey. Pulling back enough to see Bailey's expressive blue eyes, Drake lifted his own shirt and tried to dry Bailey's face. “Let's go. I bet Keith will fuck you happy, if you asked him all nice.” Bailey let out a watery chuckle. “You think so?” “Yeah, babe. I think so.” Keith shook his head, obviously trying to hide his grin. “You don't even have to ask. I'm doing it anyway. Hope both of you rested up because I have more than a few plans for you two.” Practically dragging them to his truck, Keith left them no room to complain. Not that either of them seemed to want to complain. It was just cool how the guy took control like that. Drake honestly hadn't thought he had it in him. Drake crawled into the big ass vehicle, pulling Bailey in after him. Kitten snuggled up to his side, immediately lifting his head for another kiss. Gratified by the movement, Drake turned in his seat, pushing Bailey against the door and worming his hands underneath the dress shirt he was wearing. Damn, no sweater vest this time. He'd have to buy stock in the damned things to make sure Bailey wore them as often as Drake wanted him to. Shit, that was something he’d never thought would make him hot. A swat to the back of his head got his attention. “Hey!” He turned to glare at Keith. “Buckle up.” Keith shook his head. “Then can I go back to mauling sweet thing?” “You can do whatever you want as long as your seatbelt is on.” Hah, Drake was going to make Keith regret those words. He obviously had forgotten how flexible Drake was. “Hey, so what did happen back there?” Keith asked.

Del Fantasma: Duck Fart Growling, Drake flung himself back into his seat. Crossing his arms, he waited for Bailey to talk. He couldn't work his mojo under these circumstances. “Umm... what part?” Bailey whispered, inching closer to Drake. A shaky hand touched his knee. Drake uncrossed his arms, reaching down and grabbing hold of Bailey's hand before he could pull it away. Bailey gave a squeeze of thanks. “All of it. Any of it. I'm feeling a bit left out.” Keith pulled out of the parking lot. Drake figured he was probably heading back to his house. At least, he hoped they were. He was feeling a bit insecure at the moment and as much as he would sound bad for saying it, he wanted to get horizontal and naked. Maybe then he'd feel a bit more sure about everything. “I'm not apologizing,” Drake grumbled. “No, I don't want you to. I'm sorry. It was my fault,” Bailey said. Damn, that made him feel bad. “Hey, puss in boots. Remember what I said about apologizing? You can't do it because then I'll look like an ass when I don't reciprocate. Like I said, it's easier to admit you're a bastard then apologize every time you annoy someone.” “I think I remember saying that it doesn't hurt to be polite,” Bailey admonished him. Trying not to laugh, Drake shook his head. “He's got you there, Drake.” “Hey, don't be taking his side here, Keith. No fair ganging up on me. Not unless there's some banging involved.” Bailey sniffed. “I'm not sure what you mean but I'm sure it's dirty.” “Aww, look, you know me so well already. Match made in heaven.” Drake grinned. “Focus.” Keith chuckled, placing one big hand on Drake's thigh. Keith stopped his truck, turning the behemoth off. Drake startled, glancing around them. Huh, they were here already. He hadn't expected it to go by so quickly.

Jade Buchanan The three shuffled out of the truck, making their way up Keith's walkway and into his house. Keith ushered them to the couch, sitting down at one end. Taking up the other end, Drake pulled Bailey down between them. Man, he hadn't expected to be back here so soon. It was only yesterday that he'd left with the promise that he'd give them both time. Was he making a mistake now? Should he give them more time or should he just shut up and let fate take them where the fickle bitch wanted? Cynical, Drake? Nah. “I didn't tell you two the full truth.” Bailey fidgeted beside him. Drake knew bits and pieces of all this, but he wondered how Bailey was going to tell it. “About a year ago, Adam and I kissed. It wasn't anything major, but his dad found us and wasn't too happy. You have to understand. Our fathers are really strict. I'm not sure if all cat shifter families are the same, but the others that I know are. You aren't supposed to be gay. They expect you to find a female and breed early.” Drake started to make choking sounds. Bailey giggled. “Anyway, nothing else happened. I don't know what I was thinking but at the time I thought I was in love with Adam. He ended up leaving a few weeks ago to come here. I wasn't sure what to do but when I talked it over with my friend Sally, we decided that I needed to come after him and see what could happen. Only, well... you both know what happened next.” “When did you realize...” Keith paused, probably weighing his words. He met Drake's gaze over Bailey's head. Drake shrugged. He stared intently at Bailey's downturned face. The peach fuzz of fur on his hair looked so damned pettable it was a bit distracting. Giving into his urge, Drake smoothed a hand over Bailey's hair. Soft. “About you guys? Or about my feelings for Adam? I don't know why I didn't know about you two. I mean, I knew something was going on but in all honesty I thought my feelings were because we had sex. I think maybe I was

Del Fantasma: Duck Fart just all turned around. I don't really have an excuse. I think I realized long before coming here that I wasn't in love with Adam, I just never admitted it. If I'm honest, part of me wanted to follow him because it looked like he'd found a way out and I wanted the same thing. I didn't want to live like that.” “Bullshit,” Drake honked, removing his hand. “If you knew then why were you still all mopey about him up until about five minutes ago?” Bailey lifted his head to meet Drake's gaze. “What was I supposed to feel? Adam was my excuse for being here. If he was mated, then I'd have to go back home. Especially when my dad found out I was here. I still don't know what I'm going to say to him. I don't want to go back. I'm not scared of him, or anything and he didn't abuse me, so don't think that. I just want to be able to make my own decisions.” “What do you want to do?” Keith asked, sending a glare at Drake behind Bailey's head. It was like they were playing good cop, bad cop, and Keith kept taking the good role. Or, maybe it was Drake that kept being the bad cop and forcing Keith to be level-headed. Whatever. Bailey didn't say anything. Staring into his big blue eyes, Drake had the feeling Bailey didn't know what he wanted. Oh, he was sure the man wanted to see where they could go, but Bailey looked like he was coming up empty as far as a job and all that stuff. Figuring that it was time to admit his own little secrets, since they were doing story time here, Drake cleared his throat. “I wouldn't worry about a job right away. I mean, Keith here is doing okay, right?” He waited for the big man to nod before continuing. “And if everything goes well next week then I can move on to my chosen career.” Bailey and Keith both stared at him, brows raised. Damn, they even had near identical expressions. Pretty funny, actually. “Yeah, I said career. And it isn't at the double arches.” Bailey raised his shoulders but Keith just continued to stare him down. “Hell. Fine, I'm a student at UCSD. I'm defending my thesis next week. The

Jade Buchanan general subject is homosexuality in aquatic birds, but I won't bore you with the details.” “UCSD?” Bailey wrinkled his nose. “University of California San Diego,” Keith murmured. “That's amazing. I'm proud of you, Drake. You'll have to let us take you out to celebrate.” Embarrassed now, Drake tried to pass it off. “Hey, I haven't passed yet.” “True, but from what I know, most students don't make appointments for defending unless they and their profs are certain they'll make it.” “Birds? So, tell me something. Are Mallards homosexual?” Bailey smirked up at him. Kitty cat was going to get a treat if he kept up with that. “Yeah. Both males and females. To different degrees, but that really doesn't matter to you. Gay drake pairs can make up to 19% in some populations.” Drake reached over and tweaked Bailey's nose. “You'll be happy to know that pair-bonding and mounting has been found among house cats too.” Keith started to laugh, a great booming sound. Bailey hissed, swatting Drake away. “I'm not a house cat.” “Really? Why don't you prove it to me then? Come on, pussy, show me how wild you really are.” Drake smiled wickedly. “You don't think I can? Well, fine then. I'll prove it.” Bailey stood up, quickly shucking his dress shirt before either man could move. Drake sat back, grinning. He wondered how far kitten would take this. “Go on. I'm waiting. I want to see that naked cock of yours.” Bailey froze with his hands on the top button of his khaki pants. “Behave, Drake. Be nice to Kitten.” Drake didn't even bother looking at Keith. “Oh, I'll be nice alright. If he just takes those pants off, I'll be very, very nice. Trust me.” Bailey lifted his chin, a mutinous expression on his face. Fingers nimbly unbuttoning and unzipping, he shucked his pants, nearly falling on his ass when he tried to push them down past his shoes.

Del Fantasma: Duck Fart Drake made a grab for Bailey, managing to tip him too far forward and pull kitten into his lap. Well, he wasn't going to complain about that. Keith helped out by sliding off the couch onto his knees. Lifting Bailey's feet, Keith managed to smoothly slide the offending shoes and socks off leaving Bailey completely naked. “Yeehaw. Looks like I caught me a little puddy tat. Now, what should I do with him?” Drake snorted. Bailey started to giggle, squirming around until Drake could barely hold on to him. Surprised, Drake finally let him go, watching as Bailey slithered to the ground beside Keith. Slim hands reached up toward Drake's waist, pulling on his belt. “If this was off, you'd be able to do a lot more with me.” Bailey grinned, letting out another giggle. Keith's grin was just about wide enough to split his face when Drake glanced over Bailey's head to catch the other man's reaction. Well, well. Color him shocked. Drake decided to get in the mood and follow Bailey's lead. Standing up, he began to shimmy and sway, putting on a bit of a tease while he stripped his clothes off. “Work it,” Bailey cackled. Snorting, Drake had to stop until he finished laughing before he could finish pulling off everything. His cock was hard enough to pound nails and they hadn't even done anything yet. He was a bit surprised he was having so much fun with this, actually. Keith amped up the energy in the room when he stood up, grabbing Bailey with one arm and slinging him over his shoulder. Bailey squealed, naked ass thrust high in the air. Drake had to stop to watch that glorious sight. Which was probably why he didn't expect Keith's next move. Ducking down, Keith grabbed Drake around the waist, picking him up too. Carrying both men, one in each arm, he started down the hall.

Jade Buchanan “Hey! I'm not a toy you can just cart around,” Drake yelled, trying not to laugh. “You were taking too long.” “Huh. Yeah, I've got nothing to say about that. Except... holy shit, Keith. What have you been eating?” Entering his bedroom, Keith tossed them both onto the bed. Limbs tangled, Drake and Bailey tried to sort themselves out before giving up and sprawling over the covers. With a wicked grin, Keith stripped off his tee, throwing it to the ground before tackling his own jeans. Within seconds he was standing before them just as naked as the two of them. His entire body was seriously ripped, all corded, lean muscle. It obviously wasn't just for show, either, judging by how easily he'd picked up both men. “What? I haul around furniture all day. What did you expect?” Keith said, answering Drake's question. Bringing his hand up to make sure he really wasn't drooling, Drake turned the movement into a sexy slide of his palm down his chest. Fisting his own cock, he was gratified to see Keith's gaze slide right where he wanted it. The next few minutes passed by in a blur. It seemed he'd barely glanced up at Keith before the big man was on him, grinding down on his body and kissing him like he was a dying man and Drake was his last shot at air. Bailey pressed up against them, fingers ghosting over Drake's body and leaving every once in awhile to probably touch Keith's skin. Keith shifted Drake further up the bed. Reaching out his arm, Drake scrambled for the bedside table and the lube and condoms he knew were there. He finally flipped over, needing more room to look. The instant he did, he had four hands moving over his back, touching his ass, pressing against his hole. Arching his back, he opened for them, more than happy to just lay here and let them do whatever they wanted. “Can you… can we…?”

Del Fantasma: Duck Fart Drake froze in place, glancing back over his shoulder at Bailey. “Can we what?” “You know.” Bailey frowned at him. “Babe, I really don’t know. All the blood has gone south to not-so-little Drake and I can’t string two thoughts together right now. Spit it out.” “Iwantoneofyoutofuckme,” Bailey rushed out, not pausing for breath. Drake had to close his eyes to make sure he hadn’t just died and gone to heaven. Blinking his peepers open, he glanced over at Keith. The big man looked just as shocked as he was. “Say again?” “You heard me!” Bailey swatted Drake’s arm. “Yeah, I just wanted to hear you say the words again.” He couldn’t stop the grin that was most likely splitting his face right now. Damned skippy. Yeehaw, this was going to be a good day. “Are you sure?” Keith asked, probably determined to be the bigger person here. Well, okay, he was already the bigger person, but shit… focus, Drake. Bailey shrugged, his cheeks damned near scarlet with his blush. “I-I know it won’t hurt. I mean, you’ll be gentle?”“I’ll do everything I can to make this as good for you as it will most certainly be for us. Deal?” Keith asked. Frozen in place, afraid to breath in case Bailey changed his mind, Drake waited. Bailey smiled, ducking his head. “Yeah.” Keith slapped his ass, causing Drake to jump. “Condom, now.” Quickly grabbing what he needed, Drake nimbly turned around, presenting his treasures to Keith and tackling Bailey. Lucky him, Keith's bed was wide enough to play around in. That was one thing he appreciated about this place. He just needed to dirty it up a bit and he'd feel right at home. Plus, he was imagining that Keith would want to spank his ass for messing with his things so that was an obvious bonus. Hands smoothing down Bailey's body, Drake followed with his mouth, trying to nip and lick every surface of skin. Bailey mewled, spreading himself

Jade Buchanan out further to let Drake have more room. “Yeah, just like that,” Drake murmured, kneeling beside Bailey's prone body. His baby tasted amazing. Drake couldn’t figure out what it was but he wasn’t about to stop and analyze it. If he were a touch more sentimental he’d probably spout some crap about Bailey tasting like home, but he’d die before actually saying that out loud. Didn’t stop him from thinking it, but hell… if he wasn’t careful these two were going to turn him into a sensitive man who — fuck — communicated his feelings. “Please, please, Drake. Please…” Bailey mewled. Drake licked a meandering path down the centre of Bailey’s chest, letting his tongue linger at the fascinating divot of Bailey’s belly button. “Please, Drake. I can’t…I, oh, I need you…” Well, fuck. How was he supposed to slow down and make sure Bailey was 100% ready for his first time if the little kitten was going to wiggle around and beg like that? Keith's hand reached around from behind, cupping Drake's cock. Drake felt the touch of latex and moved away from Bailey enough to see what Keith was doing. Huh. It seemed Drake was going to win the prize of being Bailey’s first. No pressure. No siree. A second package was ripped open, and Drake could see Keith repeating the gesture on himself. Okay, looked like both Drake and Keith would be doing the fucking. Passing Drake the bottle of lube, Keith slid his hands down Drake's back, fingers pressing against his puckered hole. Drake grinned, wiggling into the touch. Laying the bottle down beside Bailey, he leaned over and started to lick Bailey's dick. Damn, kitten definitely had the sweetest cream. Bailey's hands grasped his hair, pulling the feathered cap. Drake growled against Bailey's flesh, moving down to nip at the juncture between his groin and his thigh. He barely had to nudge Bailey before his kitten was spreading his legs, lifting up

Del Fantasma: Duck Fart to let Drake explore to his heart's content. A heel kicked his back, but he finally got Bailey situated – ass lifted, thighs tossed over Drake's shoulders. Drake inhaled deeply, nuzzling the furry balls in front of him before laving the sac with his tongue. Continuing down, he traced his tongue behind Bailey's balls and up his crease. Sweet and musky, it was a definite turn-on. Happily, Drake ate at Bailey's ass, delving his tongue inside the warm entrance. Fuck, he was tight. Bailey squirmed, his heels drumming on Drake's back before they were lifted. Drake didn't even have to look behind him to know that Keith had just joined in again. Hell, he'd been so distracted by Bailey, he'd barely even been aware of the fact that Keith wasn't fingering his ass anymore. Wiggling his hips, he tried to urge the man back to his task. A heated chuckle sounded behind him. “Patience. Kitten first.” Deciding to step up his game, Drake blindly reached for the bottle of lube he'd dropped. Picking it up, he carefully popped the top and poured out a bit of liquid into his palm. Good thing he'd had practice doing this one handed. Bringing his hand back, he coated the fingers of his other hand and started to caress Bailey's crease. Raising his head, he went back to licking along Bailey's cock and pressed one finger against Bailey's hole. They both groaned at the first gentle thrust. Bailey jerked his hips, moaning loudly. Drake played with Bailey's ass as long as he could before adding another digit. Bailey started to keen, and Drake was about a second away from joining him when Keith nudged his hips. “He's ready.” Taking the big man's word for it, Drake sat up on his knees, feeling Bailey's legs drop to either side of him. Keith supported him at his back, helping him tilt Bailey's hips up over Drake's thighs. Drake let out a shuddering breath, meeting Bailey's gaze. “Please...” Bailey mewled.

Jade Buchanan Keith's hand wrapped around his condom-covered cock, applying more lube and nearly making Drake cum. Panting, Drake batted Keith's hand away, grasping his dick and pressing the tip against Bailey's ass. He slowly sank into the tightest, sweetest hole he'd ever been inside. Tossing his head, letting it fall to Keith's shoulder, he cried out. Grateful for Keith's support — literally — Drake began to thrust mindlessly. Keith's big hands moved over both of them, gliding along their skin, heating them up even more. Shit, Drake wasn't going to last. He froze, cursing, before pulling out. Holding his dick and hoping the touch of his hand didn’t trigger an orgasm, he shuddered. Man, that was close. He really wasn’t ready to cum yet. “Fuck, your turn.” Keith chuckled, picking Drake up and moving him to the side. Drake collapsed beside Bailey, running the palms of his hands down Bailey's chest and tweaking the pale pink nipples in front of him. He looked down, watching as Keith applied lube to his own condomcovered cock, before Keith pressed against Bailey's ass. Keith gritted his teeth, his lips pulled back in a snarl. Yeah, Drake knew exactly how he felt. Watching Keith fuck Bailey was about the hottest thing he'd ever seen. Pulling off his condom and throwing it to the foot of the bed, Drake finally gained his knees again. Bailey threw out a hand, brushing against Drake's cock and making him see stars. “Shit, Bailey! Don't do that.” “I wanna... please... Dr-Drake. Oh, Keith, yes...” Well, since he'd asked nicely. Loving the fact that Keith was kneeling upright with Bailey sprawled out in front of him, Drake lifted his leg and swung it over Bailey's body. Straddling the kitty cat, he thrust forward, bumping Bailey's chin with his dick. Bailey's tongue peeked out, touching the tip of his cock and that was all she wrote. Drake arched his back, shouting out his orgasm. Shit, he hadn't wanted to

Del Fantasma: Duck Fart go that quickly. Looking down, he watched his creamy seed splatter over Bailey's face. Keith's hands grasped his hips, soothing the tension out of his body. Breathing deeply, Drake had no idea how he managed to swing his leg back over to lie beside Bailey again but he suspected Keith might have had something to do with it. Determined to make the other two men cum soon, Drake reached down for Bailey's dick, jerking it in time to Keith's thrusts. Keith froze in place, his body tense, the familiar signs of him coming a ridiculous turn-on for Drake. “Fuck...” Keith got out between his gritted teeth. That was apparently just what Bailey needed. The little one stiffened, his cock spurting out thick cream all over Drake's hand and his own belly. Letting out an expelled laugh, Drake leaned down, kissing Bailey's adorable lips. Keith moved away, disposing of his condom before coming back and moving them all into a more comfortable position. Drake lay on his back, head propped up on Keith's bicep. Keith's colossal chest was a warm weight beside him and little Bailey was sprawled out diagonally across both of them. He was going to studiously ignore the fact that Drake and Bailey were close to the same height and weight. As far as he was concerned, Bailey would always be the little one. Bailey lifted his head off Drake's chest, shifting in place where he lay across Keith. “Thank you,” he whispered. Keith slid a palm over Bailey's ass, his hand nearly covering both cheeks. Damn, that was hot. “For what, baby?” “For being you. Both of you. I'm just glad, is all.” Drake smiled, genuinely sated. Happy. Aw, shit. He was definitely going to end up turning into one of those sunshine and roses annoying people who was always happy. Hell. Shrugging internally, he figured it really didn't matter in the end. He'd just have to get used to it.

Jade Buchanan

Epilogue

Bailey purred, feeling safe and protected sandwiched between Drake and Keith at the bar. It was Friday night, exactly a week after he'd first entered Del Fantasma and ran into a human and a duck that changed his life. Cody set three shot glasses down in front of them. Bailey leaned forward, sniffing his. He wasn't much on alcohol. Glancing up at Keith for direction, he watched the other man pick up his own glass. “Is it just me or is this the same drink you gave us last week? What's the deal?” Keith asked. “Oh, you didn’t know?” Cody glanced at them, a slight smirk playing at his lips. “It’s a Duck Fart.” “What?” Drake squawked, bristling. Bailey grinned, tipping back his shot glass and swallowing the mixture. Perfect. It was perfect. Just like the two men he hoped to learn more about. Discover what he could have with them. His life would never be ordinary, but as long as he worked at the relationship with Drake and Keith he had faith that things would end up exactly the way they were supposed to. When he’d left home last week, he’d never imagined he’d end up with a human and a duck. Now, he couldn't imagine his life any other way.

Del Fantasma: Duck Fart

Duck Fart 1 part Canadian Whisky 1 part Bailey's 1 part Kahlua Layer ingredients in a shot glass and enjoy. **** We hope you enjoyed this romance by Jade Buchanan. Be sure you check out our full selection of fiction books at Aspen Mountain Press! We invite you to join our friendly and informative community loop at . Please also stop by and visit www.aspenmountainpress.com and browse our virtual bookstore. Our newsletter will keep you informed about releases, specials and contests. Join at: https://app.e2ma.net/app/view:Join/signupId:1400893/acctId:1400720