Inequities

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Inequities ISBN #978-0-85715-622-8 ©Copyright Jambrea Jo Jones 2011 Cover Art by Posh Gosh ©Copyright August 2011 Edited by Claire Siemaszkiewicz Total-E-Bound Publishing This is a work of fiction. All characters, places and events are from the author’s imagination and should not be confused with fact. Any resemblance to persons, living or dead, events or places is purely coincidental. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any material form, whether by printing, photocopying, scanning or otherwise without the written permission of the publisher, Total-E-Bound Publishing. Applications should be addressed in the first instance, in writing, to Total-E-Bound Publishing. Unauthorised or restricted acts in relation to this publication may result in civil proceedings and/or criminal prosecution. The author and illustrator have asserted their respective rights under the Copyright Designs and Patents Acts 1988 (as amended) to be identified as the author of this book and illustrator of the artwork. Published in 2011 by Total-E-Bound Publishing, Think Tank, Ruston Way, Lincoln, LN6 7FL, United Kingdom.

Warning: This book contains sexually explicit content which is only suitable for mature readers. This story has a heat rating of Total-e-sizzling and a sexometer of 2.

The Seeds of Dawn

INEQUITIES Jambrea Jo Jones

Dedication To my pack at Heat Wave. Thank you for bidding on naming a character. The auction for Fatin and her girls was such a great thing and I’m happy we could all participate. Special hugs to her and her family. Kim—The evil one who plotted against me to get Peter Piper into this book! Thank you to those who helped me into talking her out of the whole name. Long live Peter. Jenn—who fought her way through the land of no computer to participate in the auction. Rhonda—the greedy one who ALWAYS wants more and somehow…she gets it. WickedlyWildSusan—or is it SweetestSusan-could it be SqueekySusan or maybe DesperatelySeekingSusan (or is that me?). Well…to whoever you are this week Susan. You certainly make the yahoo groups interesting with your ever-changing screen name. Valerie—who made sure she was included in the bidding even though she was in pain and on her way to the ER. Talk about dedication. Jo—the one who has so much courage and optimism that cannot be rivaled! And as always to Joy, the sister of my heart.

Trademarks Acknowledgement The author acknowledges the trademarked status and trademark owners of the following wordmarks mentioned in this work of fiction: Wile E. Coyote: Warner Bros. Harley Davidson: Harley Davidson Group Jacuzzi: Jacuzzi Brands Corp.

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Chapter One

Russ Masters’ anger had anger. To top it all off he was unsure of himself for the first time since becoming the alpha of his pack. Things had been fucked up from the day he had that first premonition. Damn the Ancients for making his life hell. It was hard enough taking care of a pack of unruly wolves, but add in war and magic and he was screwed. And now he was whining. God damn it. Russ slammed his hand on the wall nearest him. He’d escaped to his rooms after the last meeting of the pack before Zareb and the bunch left for Africa. And wasn’t that a fucking joke. Why was he even alpha? No magic to speak of and one of his betas was swimming in power. Shit. He needed to stop the pity train, but it was a downward slope he couldn’t seem to get off. His very first vision did not warn him of all that was to come, but wasn’t that just like the Ancients. They liked mystery and making you work for the information. Nothing was ever easy with them. He needed to get over the injustice of it all, but it stuck in his craw that he was being put in second place. How could he compete with Zareb? The man was born before Russ was even thought of. Hell, before Russ’ great-grandparents were even thought of. Zareb was strong, magical and a leader. When he returned from his journey, Russ would turn the pack over to him. He really didn’t think he had a choice in the matter. He was weak and weak didn’t cut it in his world. Nope. The weak died. A knock on the door pulled him out of his doom and gloom. He put his alpha face on and tamped down on the negativity. It was bad enough he doubted himself; he didn’t need the rest of the pack to feel it. “Enter.” He didn’t expect to see Ive walk into the room. He thought they were done talking. She wasn’t even part of his pack. The fox shifter should have never shown up then some of the mess he was in would have been avoided. “I needed to speak to you privately before we left.” Ive moved to the lounger he had by the window.

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She looked comfortable in her surroundings. Hell, she’d probably make a better alpha then him, she had the balls for it. Russ had to stifle a chuckle. At least some semblance of a good mood was returning. “I thought you said all you were going to.” Russ got back to business. “No. This is personal and involves my tribe.” Russ didn’t know what that had to do with him. Her tribe was hundreds of miles away and none of his concern. Russ waited expectantly. He wouldn’t force her to talk. “I’m sorry we brought this to your door, but we didn’t think we had a choice.” She knotted her hands together nervously. It was the first time he’d seen her unsure of herself. “You’ve said all this already. Was there something new you needed?” “Don’t—” Ive looked down at her hands. “Don’t blame Vivian. She cautioned against us coming, but I convinced her.” Vivian. Another problem he didn’t need that Ive had brought to his door. Things would have been different if they had both stayed home. “It is what it is, there is no blame. You were called to your mate. That’s natural.” Russ assured her as best he could. “I’m glad you see it that way, but there are others who don’t. My tribe doesn’t believe in inter-species relations. They aren’t going to be happy you’re a wolf and they will come hunting for Vivian.” “You worry about the trip to Africa and your mate. I’ll take care of things here.” Russ moved to help her out of the chair. “You need to be going now. I’m sure the others from the pack who are going are waiting for you. We’ll be here when you return.” He walked her to the door and closed it. It was good that he could help someone else. For the first time in weeks he felt like the head of his pack. Maybe he should go to the gym and work some of his tension away. He was tired of dwelling on the past and other people’s lives. Nothing ended the way he thought it would. Dmitri wasn’t the bad guy and after all this time he was deflated. The goal had been to take Dmitri down for the hell he’d put the tribe through. But to find out Dmitri was a soul who possessed someone else stopped all thoughts of ending the man’s life. Russ’ visions told him that Dmitri would die at the pack’s hands. Technically that was true, Dmitri was dead, his spirit once again trapped, leaving the true soul to have his body back. Djimon couldn’t help it that when the pack looked at him

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they saw Dmitri, the man intent on destroying them all. Nothing was as it seemed. That, he should be used to. Yep, time for the gym. He was sick of hearing himself think. He wanted to exhaust himself enough that he could sleep peacefully tonight. What about my mate? Another thing he wasn’t thinking about. Russ changed into a grey tank top and some exercise shorts and made his way to the gym. It wasn’t too far from his room. He stopped on the way to fill up a water bottle and grab a towel. The pack’s gym was fully stocked with weights and a few treadmills along with some elliptical equipment. Russ headed for the treadmill hoping a good run would settle him down. If not, he’d shift and go for a real run. Things were closing in on him and he needed mindless activity so he could wear himself out and hopefully sleep without dreams. Of course that wouldn’t stop the damn visions. Enough thinking. Russ put his towel around his neck and his water bottle in the holder. A few buttons later and he was running. He set it to start out slow and steadily increase the incline. Before long he was running full speed. One foot in front of the other, the sound echoed in the room. Russ closed his eyes with his focus turning inward. He was alone in a jungle. The vegetation was so real he could almost smell it. He was in wolf form stalking through the trees and vines. The wind whipped around his body as he charged full speed ahead. His tongue hung out of his mouth. He panted at the exertion, but it was fun. He didn’t want to stop. Russ pushed himself harder and harder. There she was. He stopped on a dime and backpedalled like Wile E. Coyote when he realised he’d walked off a cliff. His eyes popped open and he almost slipped off the treadmill. He caught himself on the attached bars. Russ looked around, but Vivian wasn’t really there. Since she’d stepped foot onto the property he couldn’t get her out of his mind. She was always there on the fringes of his thoughts. Russ really should check on her. The doctor said she’d be fine. She’d been attacked while in fox form on the mad dash to reach his pack house. Her protector, Ive, had pushed them both too hard. They had been weak when they’d reached the outskirts of his property, not expecting a real predator to attack. They’d shifted and spent too much precious time in the woods and Vivian hadn’t healed right. The doctor had had to reset her bone.

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They hadn’t mated yet, but he was ready to rip the good doctor apart for hurting Vivian. He’d left the room. He wasn’t ready for a mate. Too much needed to happen before he could settle down. And right now he was unworthy. What could he offer? Russ continued his run until he could barely move. He shut the machine down and wiped it off. He staggered back to his room for a shower before he crashed. A scent wafted towards him that stopped him in his tracks. His mate was somewhere close. It was hell being able to smell her and know she was his, but not claim her. But he couldn’t. Not now and maybe not ever. She’d be better off back home. Russ stepped around the corner and there she was. She looked so relaxed in her jeans and sweater. He’d prefer to see her naked, spread out before him and ready for him to fuck her. Who is she talking to? He didn’t want to get too close. He would observe her from here. God she was beautiful. Her long blonde hair sparkled under the light. Her back was to him, so he couldn’t see her brilliant blue eyes. She was so fair compared to the man she spoke with. Russ was actually surprised that Peter was there and talking to Vivian. Usually the only one he hung around with was his cousin, Everett. Not that Russ blamed the guy. His last pack had kicked him out for being gay and he was still cautious when talking to strangers. Russ couldn’t understand that mentality. Pack was family no matter what. Peter had showed up looking for his cousin. It took months for the man to trust Russ. He wondered what Peter and Vivian were talking about. He looked around expecting to see Everett somewhere, but it was just the two speaking in low whispers. Russ’ curiosity got the better of him and he edged closer. “Hey, Russ, what’s shakin’?” Russ closed his eyes. How could he not have heard Cord getting close to him? He was completely out of sync. Or there were too many people in the fucking house. Maybe he needed a vacation. From himself. “Just getting ready for bed. Did you need something?” Russ turned to Cord. “No, man just heading to the kitchen for a snack.” Cord passed by him and went down the stairs. Peter and Vivian both stared up at him now. Her eyes really were lovely. Vivian had a hesitant smile on her face. What he wouldn’t

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give to hear her laugh or see her smile at him. Cord walked right by them, slapped Peter on the back, gave a respectful nod to Vivian and was gone. That left Russ feeling uncomfortable under the gaze of the two at the bottom of the stairs. He should probably announce to the pack that he had a mate, but he wasn’t ready yet. For any of it. He did an about face and walked to his room. Yes, he was a coward. Fuck, maybe he should turn everything over to Zareb when he got back. The man was one of the original shifters and had so much power the pack was his to take. Russ had been an idiot for not sensing just how strong Zareb was. He should have looked into it more when the man had first showed up at his door. Or hell, even Max, one of his beta’s. He ran a hand through his hair and shook his head, slamming his door in disgust behind him. Right now, he hated himself. All that exercise went to waste. He was tense and ready to chuck it all. He didn’t even know who he was any more.

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Chapter Two

Vivian’s shoulders slumped. What had she done to make her mate run away from her at every turn? Things should be easy now that they had each other. It was instinct for their kind to mate. Was it because she was a fox? Did he have the same mentality as her tribe where anything different was ostracised? If that was the case she should just go home. The journey here was useless to her if she was unwanted. “He’s freaked.” Peter’s voice broke through her thoughts. “Excuse me?” Vivian turned back to the extremely tall man who had stopped her in the hallway. He was handsome enough with his long dark black hair and bright emerald green eyes. Why couldn’t this be her mate? At least he spoke to her. “I think our fearless leader is struggling with a few things. It isn’t you.” “How could you possibly know that? Did he tell you that?” “No, ma’am.” Peter frowned a little. “Just something I sensed. I don’t talk to a lot of people around here. But I would follow that man to my grave.” He looked a little uncomfortable with his words. Like he wasn’t sure why he’d said what he had. Vivian had that effect on people. She looked back over her shoulder. Well, most people. “Why don’t you talk to a lot of people? Sorry. That was rude of me. Forget I asked.” Peter shrugged. “No, that’s okay. I wasn’t born here. Russ took me in when he didn’t have to. I do have family here. My cousin, Ever—” Peter paused and looked flustered. “It’s okay. I’m sorry. I should go.” “There is something about you, I don’t know, I feel I can talk to you. Almost like I have to.” Peter frowned. “Like I said, that’s okay.” Vivian placed a hand on his arm. “Well, anyway, he’ll come around. Night.” “Good night.”

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Peter followed in the direction of the other wolf. Vivian sat down on the step leading upstairs. She wasn’t ready to retire for the evening and she didn’t have anyone to confide in. Ive had left on her journey and had told Vivian to stay here. She thought mating was supposed to be a great thing. She’d always assumed she would meet the man she would be with and they would fall instantly in love. End of story. She’d had no clue when she began this trek across America that her mate would be here. And a wolf. Her family was not going to be happy. Vivian had warned Ive this was a bad idea, but her protector insisted they needed to be here. So like always she followed. Ive was strong and brave, as was her twin, Greycen. The siblings had been her sworn protectors since birth. Not that she was much younger than the pair. Sometimes being a princess really sucked. At least she didn’t have to break that to Russ. Maybe that was why he wouldn’t talk to her. If he would, she could tell him it wasn’t a big deal. She didn’t want to live with her den as royalty. She wanted a mate and a home. Vivian was going to need to have a talk with Russ soon no matter what. She had a feeling that Greycen would be arriving soon and hoped he didn’t bring half the pack with him and declare some stupid war. She got up from her seat and went in search of the kitchen. There had to be something she could do in this house. Eat, clean, find someone to talk to so she didn’t feel so alone. Anything. It drove her parents crazy when she got into her cleaning mode. They told her she was above all that, but there was nothing wrong with manual labour. It made her feel…good. A few wrong turns and she was finally in the kitchen. One of the other shifters was just leaving, but she didn’t stop him. Vivian thought his name was Cord, but she wasn’t sure and didn’t want to ask. Things were quiet and even though she thought she wanted to talk to someone, they were all strangers. The only one who might understand what she was going through was Peter and she didn’t want to bother him. He seemed on edge as it was. It was very unusual for a pack house to be so silent. She thought with all the wolves in residence it would be louder, full of energy. But then again, these wolves had been through so much at the hands of the greatest evil there was. They’d almost lost members when Valerie, Max’s mate, was kidnapped and in the mercy of Dmitri and the Vessel. Vivian didn’t want to get anywhere near it and didn’t envy Ive who had to travel with the object so they could destroy it. The whole reason for the Africa trip.

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Her thoughts went to Ive. She hoped things were okay. She didn’t know what she would do if her mate had hosted the spirit of such evil. Would Djimon ever be fully cleansed of Dmitri’s soul or would some remnants remain inside? Vivian went to the sink after the other shifter had left. Plates and silverware sat there waiting to be cleaned. She could take care of that. In a matter of seconds Vivian found cleaning supplies and started scrubbing. Not that the kitchen really needed it but it made her feel better. Of course, the refrigerator was a mess. Mumbling to herself, she didn’t hear anyone approaching until he spoke. Her mate. She’d know that scent anywhere. Sunshine and grass with a dance of something purely Russ. “What the hell are you doing?” Vivian dropped the bowl of spaghetti in her hands and whirled around to face Russ. She clutched at her throat, her pulse racing and used the counter behind her to rest her back against so her legs didn’t crumble and end up on the floor with the food. He was so hot in his jeans and T-shirt. She couldn’t let that distract her. He didn’t want her. “I—sorry, let me just—” God she wanted to go to him. To wrap her body around his and claim him. The urge was so strong she had to clutch the counter. She eased her body down to the floor prepared to fix the mess she’d made. “Stop.” Russ bent down and forced her to stand. “There is no need for you to clean the house, Princess. You should be resting.” Russ reached around her for the rag she’d dropped and started picking noodles off the floor to throw them in the nearby trash. “I’m not helpless. And I’m fine.” Vivian went for the paper towels and for the next few seconds the two of them cleaned up the mess. “I thought you were retiring for the night,” Vivian finally stated, unable to keep the hurt from her voice. He’d run from her. Was she that hideous? The silence was too much for her. Especially when she wanted to tackle him to the floor and make him really look at her. She wondered what he tasted like. Would his kiss be gentle or rough? How would his his touch feel on her body? “I heard a noise and came to investigate and what do I see? The princess of another tribe cleaning the kitchen. Care to explain? Is our home not up to snuff?” “What? No. Of course not. I just—it’s what I do when I’m out of sorts. That’s all. And please, it’s Vivian. I don’t need any kind of special treatment. I know you don’t want me here. As soon as Ive gets back I’ll leave. You needn’t bother yourself with me, but I can’t very

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well stay in my room the entire time I’m here.” She stood with her hands on her hips. He exasperated her to no end. Russ held up his hand. Was it bad that she wanted to lick and suck on his fingers? God, she’d never felt this heat before. This all-consuming need to have sex with someone. Of course, it wasn’t just someone. It was her mate. A man who wanted nothing to do with her. Not the best for a girl’s self esteem. “I never…fuck. Let me finish this. Go sit down and we can talk. I wanted to wait, but now is as good a time as any. Go on.” Russ shooed her away. A talk, that didn’t sound promising to her, she was so discouraged and figured he’d be telling her to pack and head home, that he’d send Ive her way when the group returned from Africa. “It’s because I’m a fox, isn’t it?” Vivian blurted out as she sat down in one of the chairs surrounding the table. She hung her head. No way did she want to see the disgust on her mate’s face. Where was the justice in this? It wasn’t fair. Her eyes filled with tears and they threatened to spill. She was quick to wipe them away. She was already pathetic enough. No reason to add this to her list of flaws. She hated to cry, it made her appear weak. Vivian wasn’t expecting Russ to wrap his strong arms around her and pull her out of the chair she’d just sat in. It took a minute for her to relax into the soothing touch of her mate stroking her back. She was so confused. “Shh, sweet one. Hush now and don’t cry.” Strong fingers under her chin forced her to look up into Russ’ deep brown eyes. “I don’t know where you got the idea that I wanted you to leave or that it has anything to do with what kind of shifter you are.” “You won’t look at me. You don’t want to be around me and this is the first time you’ve touched me voluntarily since it was announced in your office that we were mates. What am I supposed to think?” She pushed his hard muscular chest and moved away from him. She’d been conscious when Ive brought her to the house. She might have been in pain, but she could still hear. The tone of Russ’ voice when he announced to everyone gathered there that day in his office was enough to make her leery. He didn’t want her. Vivian backed against the wall and crossed her arms over her chest. She wasn’t weak no matter what he might think of her. She tilted her head at a defiant angle and glared.

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Russ sighed and sank into the chair she’d vacated. “I don’t deserve you,” Russ muttered under his breath. She couldn’t have heard right. No way. This strong alpha didn’t think he deserved her? She wanted to step forward, but held her ground. “Bullshit.” Russ’ head snapped up and he looked shocked. “That’s right. You heard me. Bullshit.” She wouldn’t let self-pity ruin this man. She’d seen lesser men run down by other shifters because they appeared weak. And that was his problem right now. She could feel it. The troubles with the pack weren’t his fault. He hadn’t made Dmitri kidnap Valerie. It was just how the cards were dealt. “You—I—you shouldn’t—that is—” “I’m sorry to be so crass. I’m not usually, but this situation calls for it. Now tell me the real reason you’ve been avoiding me. If you don’t want me as a mate, tell me. I’ll go back to my pack. But don’t sit here and try the whole ‘it’s not you, it’s me thing’. I’m a shifter. I know how these things work. I know we only get one mate.” Vivian glared at him. She felt better than she had in days. The release of her anger made her stand tall. This is how it was meant to be. Talking, fighting and hopefully loving with the man made just for her. “Listen here—” Russ jumped out of the chair and pointed a finger at Vivian, but didn’t get to continue. He was interrupted by a hesitant voice by the kitchen door. “Uh—Russ? Sorry, but um—the gate. Outside—” Russ turned and visibly calmed down. It was Peter and he looked unsure as his gaze jumped from her to Russ. He edged into the room to stand closer to Vivian, like he was trying to protect her from Russ. “Who is it?” Russ growled. “He said he’s from Vivian’s pack and we need to let him in.” Vivian knew who it had to be. If she was lucky, her parents had only sent him and not a group of others from the pack. If it was Greycen, Ive’s twin, she stood a chance. Grey wouldn’t care that she was mated to a wolf. “Did he give you a name?” Vivian questioned. Please be Grey, please be Grey. “He said he was Greycen Sheppard.” Peter still looked unsure, but he stood tall and had moved between her and Russ. “Thank goodness.” Vivian breathed a sigh of relief. “Is he alone?”

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“I don’t know. He just said we needed to let him in and he needed to talk to you and Ive.” “What did you tell him?” Russ demanded. “That I needed to get my alpha. I didn’t wait for anything else, I came straight here.” Peter looked hurt that Russ would even ask him that question. “Thank you, Peter.” Vivian placed a hand on his arm. “Russ and I can take it from here. Thank you so much.” Vivian stretched up and placed a kiss on his cheek. Russ growled, but she ignored him. Peter had been nothing but kind to her and no way would the man who avoided her make her feel bad for expressing her feelings. Peter had tried to protect her—against his own alpha. That said a lot about his character. “Peter, go let him in before you go to bed. Put him in my office. And thank you,” Russ offered grudgingly. After Peter left, Vivian turned on Russ. “What is wrong with you? That man would do anything for you.” That deflated Russ. “This is why we need to talk. And why are you worried about others from your pack?” Now it was her turn to be nervous. She knew it was coming. That she would have to give Russ all the details on what had happened when Ive had talked her into leaving and the repercussions of her actions. Not that she had a chance to before now with him dodging her at every turn. She didn’t speak for a few seconds. She opened her mouth to say something when someone else spoke. “Yeah Viv, why don’t you tell the man why you’re worried.” She didn’t even look at the speaker. She didn’t have to, she’d listened to that voice for years telling her what she could and couldn’t do. “Grey—” “Where’s Ive?” Greycen demanded. “I’m sorry Russ, I tried to—” Peter stood behind Grey looking flushed. “Its okay, Peter. You can leave.” Russ dismissed the other wolf. “No. He doesn’t have to.” Greycen glared. That gave Vivian pause. Not at all what she was expecting. She gave Peter a long look. “We need to all calm down. Let me make some tea. The three of you sit.” She expected them to obey her and turned to where she’d spied the tea earlier. With her backbone firmly back in place she prepared the tea and sat down among the growling men.

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“Grey. Are you alone?” She had to ask but was afraid of the answer. “I left not long after you and my sister. But the others will be coming. Ryerson convinced your parents to send him and his group of thugs.” Grey managed to tear his gaze off Peter to look at her. “You shouldn’t have left—at least not without me. You both knew better.” “We’re adults.” Vivian reminded him. She was worried about the news of Ryerson. That did not bode well at all. He wanted her for a mate so he could take over the tribe without challenging her father. He could have it for all she cared. But not with her by his side. “Please. Adults who sneak out in the middle of the night with only half their guard? Tell me Ive didn’t put you up to this harebrained scheme. I expected more from you.” Grey sounded so disappointed. She hated it, but there was nothing she could do about it now. What was done was done. “I thought your people told you both you were needed here?” Russ interrupted the pair. “It doesn’t matter. Not really. I’m not sure why Ive said that. She probably thought you’d take it better if we were sent and not runaways. I threw my lot in with hers. I take full responsibility.” “You knew your parents would send someone after you. You’re next in line for the Den.” “Doesn’t matter. My mate isn’t there. He’s here.” Vivian flashed her gaze to Russ. The two Masters’ pack members just looked back and forth between her and Grey, taking in everything they said. “Aw, fuck. Tell me it isn’t the wolf.” Grey put his head in his hands. “You have a problem with that?” Russ snarled. “No, I don’t. But I’m not the one who matters. Her folks aren’t going to have it and will drag her back home if necessary. To the man they want her to mate with.” “Not going to happen.” Russ got up from the table and paced. No one had touched their tea. Funny—she didn’t feel thirsty either. As a matter of fact, she felt nauseous. She wouldn’t go back. “Why do you care?” Vivian whispered. She really wanted to know.

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“This will cause a war.” Grey said at the same time, almost overriding her response, but she knew Russ heard her by the way his spine straightened. “It isn’t like we haven’t lived through one of those. Bring it on.” Russ growled. “Ryerson is convinced you should be his even if you aren’t true mates.” Grey ignored Russ’ comment and continued. “Nobody ever thought you would leave to find who you belonged to. You should have talked to me, Viv.” This was how she expected the alpha to act. Gone was the woe-is-me attitude he’d had for the past couple of days. He was in his glory and he was magnificent.

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Chapter Three

This would never do. Russ should have talked to Vivian from the beginning. Found out why Ive and Vivian had run to his pack. Obviously it wasn’t just so Ive could find her mate or Vivian hers. There was more going on here than he first thought. What kind of alpha was he that he didn’t get to the bottom of this from the get-go? Now this Greycen man was here and Peter was acting weird. “How much time do we have before the others from your pack get here? Do they know you set out before they did?” Russ asked Greycen. “They know. I didn’t make it a secret that I was going after my sister and my charge. They would expect no less from me. The others should be here soon. And I don’t think they’ll knock. They have no respect for other shifters.” Russ turned to Vivian and waited until he had her undivided attention. “You’re not going back.” “Could have fooled me. I didn’t think you wanted me here. Actions speak louder than words, and Russ, you have shown me very clearly you don’t want to be near me. Why do you care if I go back or not?” Vivian demanded. God she was beautiful. Even when angry she carried a grace about her that he had to have. He ignored the other two at the table and stalked to Vivian. He pulled her out of the chair and wrapped her in his arms. He grazed her throat with his canines and whispered to her, “Mine.” Vivian shivered in his arms. He snarled and took her mouth in a kiss. His wolf wanted to break free and howl. The only thing stopping him from stripping her bare and taking her in the kitchen was the siren going off around the compound. “Fuck. They’re here. My guess is they’re going for a snatch-and-grab. Do you have any weapons? I know for sure they will.” Greycen took charge of the situation and it was the last straw for Russ. This was his house. His people. And damn it, he was the alpha here.

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“Peter, take Greycen to the tunnels. Vivian and I will be right behind you. I need to warn the others and get us out of here. We’ll regroup at one of the outer houses. He won’t attack the family homes, will he?” Russ directed the question at Greycen. “He is capable of anything. He’s sneaky and devious. Is running the right option?” “We are not running. We’re retreating to get a better position. A strong leader knows you can’t always stay and fight.” And he was a strong leader. He knew that in his heart of hearts. Now it was time to prove it. “I think Ryerson will try to take over the main compound and hold those in the house prisoner until he gets what he wants. He’ll think he has the tactile advantage among your people.” Greycen laid it out for him. “Not going to happen. I’ll get David and Max to evacuate the others. We have another safehouse we were going to utilise earlier this year. Let’s get going before they breach the field.” Russ took Vivian’s hand. “What the fuck is going on?” Max charged into the room with David hot on his heels. Good, he wouldn’t have to waste time finding them. The quicker he got Vivian to safety the better he would feel. “Evacuate the main house and get a message out to the other families living outside the house. We are about to be invaded. We’ll regroup at the safe house.” Russ commanded. “What about you?” David questioned. “Greycen and I will lead the others on a chase and meet up with you. Take care of Vivian until I get there.” “No!” two voices shouted in harmony. Russ looked back at Peter and Vivian. “I’m going with you, Russ. This is my fight.” Vivian snarled. “I can’t ju—” Russ ran a hand down his face. “You can. Now stop arguing.” Vivian went to the doorway of the kitchen and waited expectantly. “I’m going too.” Peter stated. “No.” Greycen’s tone broke no argument, but Peter ignored him. Russ looked between the two and wondered if Greycen was gay and maybe Peter’s mate—but there wasn’t time for this.

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“Fine. David and Max, if we don’t see you in two days’ time, send someone searching. We’ll meet you at the house my parents old home, you know the one. Then make a plan to take our home back.” With his orders given, Russ strode out towards his office. He went to the safe and grabbed his wallet and some keys as well as some extra cash he had stashed. He shut down his computer and put the pass locks in place. Next he went to his weapons cabinet. There were more guns stashed around the house that David and Max could use. They were his two best men. He knew they would protect their family. Four others had joined him. He turned to see. Everett, Greycen, Peter and Vivian hovered by the door. Russ wasn’t surprised to find Everett had joined him. He was very protective of his cousin, Peter. You wouldn’t know he had a soft heart with his spiked strawberry blond hair and tats. He looked as badass as they come, but for Peter he would do anything. Russ felt better knowing he would have the three other men to help him protect his mate. He handed out guns to everyone, including Vivian. “Peter, do you have the keys to your bike handy? How about you Ev?” Russ asked. “No, sir.” Peter answered. “You two get what you need and meet us at the garage. Don’t waste any time. It’s been too long already and we want to give the others a good head start.” With nods the cousins went off. “Peter shouldn’t come with us.” Greycen insisted. “It isn’t your choice and if I can’t have Max and David to back me up, there isn’t anyone else I’d pick. Ev and Peter are strong wolves and know their way around the streets.” “Who is this Ev? I don’t like him.” Greycen snarled. It was Vivian who soothed the other man. She had that way about her. “Everett is Peter’s cousin. You can stand down Greycen.” She assured him. “Peter needs to go with the others. I don’t want him to fight.” They had reached the garage and Russ guided them to the three Harleys towards the front. It was Peter who answered. The other two had arrived almost on their heels. Man, they were quick. Russ was very happy they were coming. “Fuck you.” Peter went to his bike and waited for Russ’s command. “Vivian and I will take Max’s bike. Greycen, you can ride with Peter or Everett, but get on the bikes and follow me.”

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Russ didn’t wait for a response. He got on the Harley and gestured for Vivian to get behind him. He took a moment to savour her arms around him. The need to claim her rushed through him. He held himself in check. Barely. There was no time for talk. Russ revved the engine and hit the door opener. It was at times like these he wished he had magic or that Zareb was here to back him up. Two men he didn’t recognise charged the bikes, but Russ kept going. He could play chicken if they wanted, but he wasn’t budging from his path. The guys jumped out of the way and shouts were heard and ignored. Russ’ only thought was safety. For everyone. Vivian was his and she wasn’t going back to a hateful tribe. And he would get his home back. Russ was back and in charge. He was alpha and the others would bow down to him and feel his wrath at their invasion.

**** “The house is empty,” Bart Castle stated. “How the fuck did they disband so fast?” Ryerson Holt wanted to know. Damn it. Greycen must have beaten them and got the word out. Fucker. “I don’t know. We can go search the rest of the compound, but I don’t think we’ll find anything.” Bart put his hands in his pocket and rocked back on his feet. “What about the computers—any luck on those?” Ryerson motioned in the general direction of the office. “Not so far. It’s pass-protected and none of us have the technical skills to breach it and it looks like there’s a magical overlay to the system.” Bart sounded interested. “Shit. This was supposed to be an easy snatch and grab. Those fucking wolves can’t be that smart.” Ryerson slammed his fist on his thigh. “I don’t know Ry. Maybe we should go home. It’s obvious Vivian doesn’t want to leave here or she wouldn’t have run.” Bart tried to reason with him. “How do you know they aren’t holding her hostage? Maybe she can’t escape. You know it was that damn Ive that talked her into coming here and her fruit of a brother would be right in on it. Who knows what the fag has told Vivian. Turning her against her own kind. He isn’t natural,” Ryerson ranted.

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“Now wait, Greycen might like to fuck men, but he is still an honourable warrior. He wouldn’t hold Viv against her will.” Bart was getting agitated. “Shut it. You don’t know anything. And Vivian will be mine. She was promised to me. I’m not leaving until she is by my side and I’ve impregnated her, cementing my status. If you aren’t on board you can leave now.” “Ry, I’m just saying to think here.” “I’m done thinking.” Ryerson removed his gun from his hip and calmly shot his friend between the eyes. “Shit, Ry, why did you do that for?” Another of his pack had joined them. Ryerson hadn’t seen him or the others. No matter. They could take care of the body for him. “He was speaking against his alpha. Anyone else feel the need?” A chorus of ‘no’ followed Ryerson’s question. “Good. Now get back to work and somebody find me some answers. There has to be something here that will tell us where they would go. The first person who finds information will become my new beta once we get home.” Satisfied that the others would do as they were told, he went on his own search for something of Vivian’s. She had been there for a few days and had to have left a trace for him to find. He wasn’t delusional no matter what Bart might have thought. He knew Vivian wanted nothing to do with him and wasn’t happy in their tribe, but he really didn’t give a fuck. She was promised to him and would be his. Those fucking wolves had better not touch her or he would obliterate them all. Hell, he could take down the old alpha no problem, but it would be easier to control the masses if he did his take over the right way. And he would be in charge. His mentor thought he’d be a puppet on the string, but that wouldn’t be the case. He was more powerful now than ever before. He would take over. They would all bow before him. But if Vivian continued to elude him he would go home with guns blazing and her dead body along for the ride. A war would be nice. He could blame the whole thing on the wolves. That plan was even better. Anyone could die in a war and Ryerson could step right in and take control. Maybe spread things out and take over this area too.

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Ryerson liked to dream big. It came from all those years of having nothing and he wasn’t going back. “Ryerson, Bill found something.” Good. All he needed was to be patient and things would fall into place. He was due some good luck. Ryerson followed his subordinate into the office, happy for the first time in weeks. He liked it when things came together.

**** It had been hours, but Russ was finally happy that they had lost their tail. He’d find a hotel soon and get them settled for the night before taking off again in the morning. He wanted to make certain that there was no trace for the foxes to follow. So he was going to weave through the state before going on the right trail to the safe house. He hoped the others were gone and he didn’t want to think about the foxes defiling his home. That would make him angry and he needed a cool head to take care of his family. Hot heads didn’t win. His father taught him that years ago. A cool head and logic worked best every time. And patience. He used to have that in spades. It was time to get it back. Russ felt better than he had in days. Some of it might have to do with his mate clutching him so tightly. He finally spotted a hotel in the distance and turned his signal on letting the others know his destination. They pulled into the parking lot and switched off the bikes for the first time in hours. They’d have to find a gas station soon too. “Why are we stopping?” Greycen edged off the motorcycle. Russ looked over to see Peter had let Greycen drive his bike. That was something he didn’t expect to see. Peter loved his bike and no one touched it. Something bigger was going on there. “We lost anyone that was following us and we need to get some rest before we head on,” Russ explained. “We should—” Greycen tried. “No. We shouldn’t. Vivian is tired and not used to riding. Do you really want to chance her slipping off? I know I don’t. We’ll rest.”

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“Don’t stop on my account,” Vivian interrupted Russ. “Enough you two. Stop questioning me. Let’s get a couple rooms and discuss what will happen in the next few days.” Russ strode to the main office and got two rooms. He figured one of them would be on watch in short rotations through the night so they only needed four beds. The group was where he’d left them. He gestured for them to follow. They had two bottom floor rooms in the back of the motel. It didn’t look like many people stayed here and that was fine with Russ. The less people to worry about the better. He opened the first room and had them all come in. “All right. We have some time. Let’s talk. Vivian. Can you call your parents and get this group to back off?” Russ wanted to start out easy. “I’ll call, but I don’t think it will do any good. My parents might call Ryerson off, but that doesn’t mean he’ll leave. He wants to be in charge too bad. He’ll find a way around the order or twist it so my parents listen to him anyway.” Russ looked at Greycen for confirmation. The other man nodded. Well fuck. “Okay. We’ll have you call later from a disposable mobile phone. There was a shopping centre we passed not too far from here. They should have something. Is there anything else I should know?” Russ looked pointedly at Peter then Greycen. They were on opposite ends of the room, but Russ couldn’t help but notice they couldn’t keep their gazes off each other. “Well, let’s see. My tribe is a bunch of bigoted snobs. They want to force me to mate with another fox that I have no desire for. That about covers it.” Vivian sank onto one of the beds. “Assholes,” Peter muttered and looked over at Greycen. Russ didn’t blame him. Not with Peter’s background. How could his sweet mate have grown up in that environment? From what he could see, there wasn’t a hateful bone in her body. Just her short interaction with other members of his pack showed him that. It made him want to get to know her better. “Hey, don’t look at me.” Greycen held up his hands in surrender. “I was ready to leave as soon as I was old enough, but my sister and I were charged with protecting Vivian. There was no way I could get us out of there until Vivian was ready.” This seemed to relax Peter to some extent.

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“This is fucked up. And foxy one—stop with the lusty looks at my cousin before I give you the smack down,” Everett spoke up. “Ev!” Peter’s face was blazing red. “Everett, back down. Your cousin can take care of himself. Why don’t you take first watch? I’ll see about getting us some dinner.” Russ made it a question, but Everett knew it was an order. Everett grumbled under his breath, but left the room. “Maybe I should—” Peter started, but Russ didn’t let him finish. If he was right, Greycen and Peter were mates. If Russ couldn’t run from his, he wouldn’t let Peter run either. And the other wolf deserved to be happy. “Peter, you and Greycen head out and get some food.” That should give the two men a chance to talk and it was time he followed his own advice. The men left with little fanfare. Vivian still sat on the bed looking dazed. He’d bet she wasn’t used to all the commotion. “How’s the foot?” Russ took the easy way out. For now. She had been injured not that long ago. Shifters healed fast, but not instantly. “I still have some aches, but it is much better.” She rotated it for him so he could see. “But now my legs are sore. I’ve never ridden a motorcycle before. It was exhilarating.” Vivian’s eye shone as she spoke. “We’ll have to do it again—when we aren’t being chased.” “I’d like that,” she whispered and looked down. Russ wondered how long they had before the others returned. He sank down beside her and took her hand in his. “I never wanted to reject you, Vivian. I hope you know that. I—fuck this is hard. I was questioning myself. I’m weak compared to others in my tribe.” “Stop!” Vivian stood. “I can’t have you doing this to yourself. So what if they have magic. You are brave and strong and a leader. You were born to take charge. You were brilliant at the house. You knew what to do and kept a cool head when you could have exploded and went out with guns blazing. It’s what Ryerson would do. He isn’t a leader. You are. And you need stronger members in your pack to help you maintain a balance.”

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Vivian placed a hand on his cheek. Russ spread his legs so she could step between them and bowed his head only to have Vivian lift his face. She leant in and brushed her mouth against his. “Viv—” “I won’t have anyone talk bad about my mate. Not even you.” She kissed him again and he let go. This moment was right. Even if they were on the run. Right here, right now was special. Russ took control of the kiss and flipped so he could bring her down on the bed and hover over her. She was so beautiful. Her blonde hair spread out around her. Her blue eyes dark with passion. Her lips plump from his kiss. “This should be more. Our first time shouldn’t be in some sleazy motel room. And it isn’t going to be. I refuse to claim you in a rush. I want to take my time and discover every inch of your body.” Russ kissed her eyes and made his way down her cheek. He didn’t press a kiss to her lips again. Instead he went to her ear and sucked it into his mouth. Vivian arched off the bed. His cock ached and he wanted nothing more than to plunge into his mate. Making her his. Finally. Russ pushed off Vivian and paced the room, trying to cool down. Fuck. His wolf howled in denial.

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Chapter Four

Vivian growled in frustration. “Russ.” She took a breath. It was hard to control. Her fox wanted her mate. “Don’t you understand? It doesn’t matter where we are. It will be special because it’s you. Claim me.” A knock sounded at the door. Damn it! The timing sucked. Vivian was so turned on her nipples throbbed and so did her pussy. She made herself stop before her hand could wander down and take care of her ache. She bit her lip hoping the little bit of pain would bring her to her senses. Russ let Grey in. “Where’s Peter?” Vivian had the clarity to ask. “He took his dinner with his cousin outside,” Grey snarled. “He’ll come around, Greycen. He’s been hurt,” Russ consoled her friend. Not what she had been expecting. But she should have. Russ was very intuitive when it came to his pack. “Who hurt him? I’ll kill them.” Grey turned to Russ and thrust the bags of food at him and moved to leave. Like he could go now and kill whoever had harmed Peter. “Calm down. It was a long time ago. I’ll let Peter fill you in when he is ready. As it is, get some sleep. In the morning, we split up.” “I’m not leaving you, Russ.” Vivian’s anger returned. Why was he always trying to get rid of her? “No. You aren’t. You and I are going in a different direction. Ev, Peter and Greycen will go to the safe house. If anyone is following us, this should smoke them out. And give Greycen and Peter some time. You and I as well.” The look Russ gave her sent shivers down her body. He wasn’t running anymore. It was about damn time. “Okay. I’ll call my parents before we head out.” “All right. Let’s eat. Greycen? Why don’t you go get some rest? I think you’re going to need it to deal with Peter and Everett.” Russ smirked. “We’ll have a meeting before we get

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going in the morning, make sure we’re all on the same page.” Russ dismissed the other man and pulled dinner from the sacks Grey had brought them. The food smelt heavenly. She could almost forgive Grey for interrupting them. She went over to the big man and gave him a hug. “Thank you for coming after me. I’m sorry Ive and I left without you, but we had a short time to work with. Things were happening too fast and you were off on a hunt.” Vivian kissed him on the cheek in apology. Grey looked over at Russ before returning the gesture. “It looks like you were right to come. And I should thank you for leading me to my mate.” As Vivian had suspected, but it was nice to have it confirmed. She was happy for Grey. She knew it was hard to be gay in their den. That was why she and Ive were the only two who truly knew. Others suspected, but Grey was a big man and could easily defend himself. Not many would challenge him. Vivian thought it would be only a matter of time before the other fox left their den. “I’ll see you in the morning, Grey.” Vivian smiled and went to the table. Grey left quietly and it was time to eat. If she could focus on food with Russ so close. A cheeseburger and fries wasn’t the most romantic meal in the world. And Russ was right, the motel wasn’t the best, but none of that mattered. Not with her mate at her side. Everything else faded to the background. Vivian’s stomach rumbled. How embarrassing. Russ just chuckled. “Sit down. Eat.” She couldn’t take her seat yet. Vivian thought he was gorgeous when he was brooding, but when the man smiled his eyes lit up. She’d never seen him happy and comfortable in his own skin. This was the man of her dreams. The one she’d craved from the time she first knew boys and girls kissed. Russ’ long sandy brown hair fell into his face. He brushed it aside and she could see the curiosity in his deep brown eyes. She shook herself and sat down. “I didn’t realise how hungry I was.” Vivian dug into her food. The two ate in silence. It wasn’t uncomfortable, but Vivian’s soul was at ease sitting there with the one man she wanted most in the world.

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“You’re beautiful. Do you know that? I would cherish you.” Vivian paused mid-chew. This wouldn’t do. Nope. Not at all. She finished her bite and wiped her mouth before scooting her chair back and moving over to Russ. She pushed his seat back and crawled into his lap. “Don’t you see? Yes, I want to be cherished, but I’m not some fragile thing you need to put on a pedestal. I can hold my own and want to be loved. And you’re just the man for the job.” She kissed him. Took charge and laid one right on his lips. She nibbled and teased until he let her in. He moaned and she knew she had him. Vivian loved when he took over. In this moment they were equals. Both slaves to the passion and the need to mate. Food forgotten, Russ picked her up and carried her to the bed. He put her down and she scrambled to the headboard. No way was anything stopping them from mating. Vivian threw her clothes off in a rush until she was bare before her soon-to-be-lover. Russ stood there dumbfounded. “You have too many clothes on.” Vivian crawled to the edge of the bed on her knees and motioned for Russ to move closer. When he was close enough, Vivian tugged on his shirt until he stumbled and had to catch himself before landing in her lap. Vivian pulled at his shirt until he finally started to help her. Good thing because she was close to ripping his clothes off him. The only thing that stopped her was the knowledge that they didn’t have anything else with them to change into. Vivian could only stare at her naked mate. He was long and lean with a dusting of light brown hair on his chest. He wasn’t as hairy as she would have thought, being a wolf. But that isn’t what fascinated her the most. His cock stood tall and strong, leaking pre-cum. Vivian licked her lips. She wanted to taste him, but her fox wasn’t having it. Mine. She usually wasn’t that possessive, but this man brought out all kinds of things she never thought she’d feel. Russ prowled onto the bed and she didn’t move. Vivian wanted him inside her. She didn’t know where to start, but the choice was taken away from her when Russ pushed her over and covered her from chest to feet. Her legs parted for him and she locked her ankles around his waist. Russ rubbed his cock between her legs, teasing her. She growled and bit his shoulder.

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“Hey!” “Mate me. Now. I can’t wait anymore. Later we’ll do slow,” Vivian panted. All he’d done was lay on top of her and she was out of her mind with need. “I won’t rush this.” Russ took her arms and raised them above her head. Vivian writhed under him, trying to coax him to breach her core. She licked at the red spot she’d left on him. Her mark. She wished she’d broken the skin. Needed to feel his blood on her tongue. Vivian nuzzled the spot and bit down harder. “Stop. I can’t—fuck Vivi. I’m going to come and if you want mated I have to wait. Slow down.” Russ put his forehead against hers, his breathing irregular. Normally she wasn’t this aggressive, but she didn’t want to give Russ a chance to change his mind. “Please.” She begged. “Don’t make me tie you down.” Vivian went wild with those words. To be at his mercy would be heaven. For him to take over completely and to be unable to stop him? A dream come true. “Someone likes that idea. Later. Listen to me. I’m about to burst, but there are things I need to say to make this complete on the wolf end.” That calmed her to some extent. Knowing there was ritual involved had her taking a deep breath. Then another. She nodded for him to continue. Russ bit her on the throat and said, “You are mine, in mind.” Vivian almost came right then. Feeling Russ’ teeth sink into her skin was unbelievably erotic. She did her best to stay still as he moved down her body. His teeth entered the skin on her chest where her heart beat and said, “You are mine, in heart.” And she was. Her heart wanted only him. How much more would she have to endure before he fucked her? Her need was so great and it kept building with every word. Russ peppered kisses along her body until he got to her thigh and nuzzled where her leg met her pelvis and bit hard and deep. “You are mine, in body.” “Yes. Yes. Russ.” Vivian couldn’t help herself. Nothing had prepared her for the emotion swirling through her body. When foxes mated they just bit and released the mating serum. This was so much more beautiful.

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Russ placed his palms on the bed by her shoulders and looked her in the eyes. His cock posed at her entrance. Here it was. The moment she’d been waiting for. His dick slid home and he said, “You are now mine, in mind, heart and body, forevermore.” “You’re mine too. In body, mind, heart and soul.” Vivian bit him again and this time released what would make them completely mated. Magic flowed through the room. Vivian bucked under Russ and he thrust again and again. This first time was over quickly. Russ jerked once, twice then he threw his head back and howled. Vivian joined him as her climax raced through her body. Russ collapsed on top of her, both of them spent. Vivian wrapped her body around Russ’, not wanting him to move. But too soon he moved to the side. Her body snuggled against him. “Sorry,” came a muffled response against her neck. “Why?” Vivian whispered back. “It was so fast. Next time we explore.” “Deal.” Content, she drifted to sleep. Her heart and soul were where they belonged. It was right in her world. And tomorrow she’d make the call that would hopefully give her mate back his world. She hated that she was responsible for his need to leave his home and family. She vowed to find a way to make it up to him.

Vivian slowly surfaced out of sleep because something tickled her feet. She went to move them, but couldn’t. Warm heat surrounded her toe. Then something licked her. What? She wasn’t a morning person. Never had been and her body was responding to the unusual stimuli. A tongue licked the sole of her foot and continued up her leg. Vivian sighed. Russ. True to his word, he was working her body in a lazy fashion. She let him continue and just enjoyed each sensation as it came. She pushed against him when he reached her pussy, but he avoided it and moved on to her stomach. Vivian groaned at the loss. She was wet and ready, but didn’t want to rush it either. To think, she could wake up this way every day. It was almost enough to make her want mornings. Almost.

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A giggle slipped out when Russ found a ticklish spot on her side. She squirmed to get away, but his mouth chased her. It was replaced with a moan when he finally got to her breast. Her nipples where hard and she wanted them in his mouth. Vivian pulled his hair to get his attention where she wanted it. When Russ licked around her hard bud her hips came of the bed, her eyes closed and she threw her head back. Oh God, it felt wonderful, the hard sucking when he enclosed her flesh between his lips. Yes. When he bit down she bucked against him. Vivian needed some sort of friction—something. But he held himself off her and continued to ply her breast with his mouth. His fingers plucked at her other nipple, then pinched. The rush of ecstasy went straight to her pussy. She clutched at thin air, looking for something to hold onto and wanting him inside her. “Russ, please.” “No.” He murmured against her skin and left her chest to nuzzle her neck. His teeth scraped against the bite mark he’d left the night before. Sex had never been this intense for her. The ache became stronger. Vivian’s hands found Russ’ ass, trying to force him inside her. But he was stronger. “Please, please, please,” Vivian moaned, again and again. Russ nipped her ear and sucked the lobe into his mouth. His breath hissed in her ear. She shivered all over. Her senses were on full alert. “Slow. Promised,” Russ’ voice whispered. At least he couldn’t talk in full sentences either. It was her turn to touch and taste. He wanted slow? Vivian caught Russ off guard and switched their positions so that she was in charge. As much as she wanted to impale herself on his cock, she controlled herself. She could do this. Drive him to the edge of reason. Vivian started with Russ’ lips, never fully kissing him. Soft nips and licks were all she gave. Her mouth wandered to his shoulder and she licked her mark. “Mine.” “Mmm…yes. Yours,” Russ agreed. She returned every movement and caress Russ had placed on her. His nipples liked the attention just as much as hers had. Vivian never made it to Russ’ toes. His dick held her, fascinated. She had to soothe it. Her tongue swirled around the head causing Russ’ hips to thrust. “Not yet. Taste.” She held down his hips.

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Vivian sucked the tip completely into her mouth, catching his pre-cum. It tasted salty and bitter and—wonderful. She moaned around the cock in her mouth and swallowed him down to the root. “Won’t last.” Russ thrashed on the bed. Vivian couldn’t have that. She wanted Russ inside her when he came. She crawled back up his body and sank down until she was fully seated. “Fuck!” Russ bucked up, almost throwing her off. Vivian steadied herself on his shoulders and Russ reached a hand up and soothed them over her lips. She opened wide and sucked his fingers in time with her hips moving up and down. Russ pulled free and cupped her breast in both hands. Squeezing them and pinching her nipples. She didn’t know they would be so responsive. Her pussy clutched at his dick, her movements jerky as he pumped up meeting her thrust for thrust. Her hand moved to his thighs and she stretched out, the shift in angle delicious. “Close,” Vivian whispered. “So close. Just—right—there—oh God.” Vivian collapsed on top of Russ, still moving, but needing a kiss. Tongues duelled as Russ continued to thrust up again and again. “Vivian!” Russ shouted his release. Vivian couldn’t stop clenching, not wanting him to slip out, but it was a lost cause when he softened inside her and slipped free. Russ ran his hands up and down her back. A knock at the door interrupted them.

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Chapter Five

He’d kill whoever it was on the other side of the door. Fuck. Vivian had just blown his mind. And now the real world threatened to interfere. “Russ. Sorry, but we have breakfast and we should be heading out.” Peter’s voice infiltrated their cocoon. “Hurry up, Masters. We need to get a move on,” Greycen growled. Well someone had not enjoyed his night as much as Russ had. Too bad. Yes, they needed to hurry, but he wouldn’t let anything spoil what had gone on here. “Give us a sec.” “I wish we weren’t here,” Vivian said. Did that mean what he thought it did? Russ stopped, unsure if his feeling were returned. Vivian slapped his chest. “Ouch.” “That’s what you get. I know where your mind went. I just meant that I wish we could stay in bed and just enjoy each other—not be on the run. That’s all.” Vivian snuggled back into his body. He knew what she meant. He didn’t want to move, but they had to get going. Soon they would be able to laze a day away, just the two of them. Maybe they could run on the property and go to that pond the other mated pairs seemed to love. He wanted to show her his home and hope she loved it as much as he did. “No more dawdling.” Russ slapped her ass and slid out from under her. As he sauntered to the bathroom a pillow hit his back. He turned around and grinned at the display before him. Vivian was sprawled over the bed. Her hair was a mess, her lips red and bruised with his marks up and down her body. He growled and moved forward only to stop himself. Breakfast. Right. He did an about face and hurried to start the water. “If you want a shower you’d better get in here,” he called over the sound of the water. It didn’t take long for her to appear. God he wanted to make love to her again. He shook himself and got under the water and waited for her to join him. Russ unwrapped the

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motel soap and handed it over, moving so he could get her head under the spray. When her hair was nice and wet he went for the shampoo, kneading it into her scalp. “Mmmm…I could give you a hundred years to keep doing that.” Russ kissed her shoulder and rinsed her hair. She handed over the soap and he did a quick wash of himself before turning off the shower. “When we get home, we’ll take a real shower together and I’ll show you how much fun we can have in the water.” Russ wrapped her in a towel and dried her off. They were done in no time and Russ called Peter on his phone, letting him know they were ready for the meeting before they went their separate ways. The other shifters were next door so the knock came within seconds of hanging up the phone. The trio before him looked like they got little to no sleep the night before. Russ almost felt sorry for them when they looked longingly at the bed. But he didn’t know if that was because they were tired or they realised that he and Vivian had completed their mating the night before. He’d get that announcement out of the way first. “I want to let you guys know that Vivian is now my mate and the head of our pack.” Peter and Everett bared their throats as a sign of respect. Vivian’s face was a brilliant red, but she was composed as she went to each and kissed their necks. “Thank you.” She squeezed their arms and went back to Russ’ side. “I’ll make a formal announcement when we get back to the pack house.” “I want to stay,” Greycen said quietly. “You’ll be welcome in our home, Greycen Sheppard. I’m hoping you will continue on as Vivian’s guard.” “Russ!” Vivian protested. “You’re my mate and head of our pack. Just as in yours, you need protection.” “I don’t want—” Russ held up a hand before pulling her in close. “It won’t be the same. You’re free to come and go as you please. Greycen will be back up. That’s all.” She nodded against his chest, taking it better than he thought she would. And it wasn’t like he could deny Greycen. Not when his mate was among his pack. That would be cruel and no one needed to go back to a den that was prejudiced against his very being.

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“Now that we have that settled, let’s talk. Everett, you’ll take Peter and Greycen with you to the safe house. Let the pack know we’re safe. Vivian and I will take a different route and meet you there.” “For the record, I don’t think this is a good idea,” Greycen stated. “I agree,” Peter responded, looking almost guilty for going against his alpha’s words. “They need to know we made it. Take the direct route, Ev. We won’t be far behind. I know you don’t agree and normally I would take the help in protecting Vivian, but I want to make sure she’s safe. If someone did follow us, I want them confused, which is why”—Russ paused because he knew his next words wouldn’t go over as well—“I want Ev in Vivian’s clothes riding behind Greycen.” He waited for the protest to come, but it looked like he had stunned everyone. It didn’t take long and the person who spoke up was unexpected. “No,” Peter said, his voice firm. Russ looked at him until Peter averted his eyes. Russ saw the look Peter gave Greycen and Ev. He didn’t blame Peter, but there was no way he could pass for Vivian with his dark features. “I’m sorry, Peter, but it’s the only way. You know you couldn’t pass. Vivian and Ev have the same colouring.” Ev pulled Peter to the side and spoke softly to him. Probably reassuring the other man. Greycen scowled, but didn’t say a word. “I don’t like it,” was Greycen’s last statement before he left the room. Russ let him go. “Ev, Peter, if you see anyone following, don’t go to the safe house. Call me. I’ll do the same. Once we regroup we’ll plan our attack to get our home back. Ev, why don’t you go to the bathroom and change out of your clothes. I’ll bring Vivian’s in to you in a second.” Ev hesitated, but followed his orders. That left Peter in the room with them. He wouldn’t look Russ’ way. Vivian went over to him. She was already so much the head of the pack. “I know you don’t want another man touching your mate when you haven’t completed the bond and I’m sorry for that. Sorry that you have to deal with this now.” “He isn’t my mate.” Russ looked over at Peter in disbelief.

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“What do you mean? You should be able to tell by smell that he’s yours. Grey already told me you were his mate.” “No. I’m sorry, miss. Um—Vivian.” Peter looked between Russ and Vivian like he was unsure how to continue. “I’m—unnatural. I won’t have a mate.” “Who told you that bullshit?” Russ demanded. “My paren-pac—” Russ was glad Peter didn’t finish his words. “No one in my family would ever say that and you know it, so you’d better not be going to say our pack. Because you’re ours. I thought you knew that. Now stop being stupid just because your old pack were a bunch of idiots. You get it? You’re mine and there is no way the Ancients would make you suffer the world without a mate.” Vivian was soothing Peter with her hand. “Go on, Peter. It’s okay and you know your cousin isn’t a threat.” Vivian kissed his cheek and watched with sad eyes as Peter left. Russ couldn’t have that. Sad didn’t look good on his mate. He moved in for a swift kiss before telling her to strip. “We can’t—” She looked towards the bathroom. Russ threw his head back and laughed. “As much as I want to fuck your brains out right now, I just need your clothes so I can get them to Ev. We need to go. Make your phone call before we head out.” Vivian laughed with him. “Oh. Right.” It was all Russ could do to keep his hands off her, but he managed. Once she was dressed in Ev’s clothes he about came unglued. He hated the other man’s scent on his woman, but he didn’t feel he had a choice. His wolf would have to deal. Fuck, this is hard. He tried to put as much of his scent as he could on Vivian. Rubbing his body against hers. It still wasn’t nearly enough, but they really did need to get going. From a distance, Ev wasn’t too bad of a double for Vivian. He just hoped if anyone was following they wouldn’t see the too short jeans or sweater. “Let’s go.” Russ led them out the door. He’d only rented the rooms for one night and left the keys behind on the TV stand. No need for any more contact with outsiders.

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It didn’t take long for goodbyes. The trio of men headed out right away. Russ watched them pull off and wished them a safe journey.

**** Ryerson grinned. They had the bastard. Idiot had used his credit card at a motel a few hundred miles from the pack house. He’d have the alpha dead and Vivian back where she belonged in no time flat. This was personal. He’d sent the rest of his brothers back home. No need for them to see how he obtained Vivian or have them watch him kill her. He wanted to be in charge, not have a revolt. They were tasked with taking the message back to the den that he would return soon with the princess. His plans had grown overnight. Once he had the foxes under his power he’d eliminate the strong and make the weak bow to him. The power would be his. And who needed some vixen to help him control it? Magic flowed through his body. Granted, it was a temporary fix, but the drug flowed through his body making him feel ten feet tall. Never would he tell the others that he’d found the ultimate source of power. A potion made by a shifter he knew. Dead now. No need for him when he had the formula to the greatest rush. It let him control others and they didn’t even know it. Lucky for him the ingredients were pretty easy to obtain, but it would take work. Work he wasn’t going to do. That’s what the others were for. The kingdom would be his alone. A harem would await his return, he was sure of it. Who needed a nagging mate when he could have the camp’s sluts at his tender mercies? He didn’t take the drug often. No way was he going to become addicted, but he’d needed it today to convince the others to leave. He needed another outlet for the power. Fucking would be good, but he didn’t have time for that. He’d settle for destruction. Too bad he’d already left the wolves’ place. That would have been fun to destroy. He’d left Sanders there to report back if the wolves returned. It wouldn’t be as fun to have someone else do the damage. Why the fuck did the wolves have to live in the middle of nowhere? They were shifters for god’s sake. They could live anywhere. Or take over a fucking city. Ryerson hated the dirt and wide expanse of nothingness. He needed a city. A place that pulsed with action. Home. That was what he wanted. Those fuckers had kept him from it for too long. A tree was his

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only option so he extended a hand and let loose the power. An explosion rent the air. Not that it did too much for him. There was no one around to see his power. Shit. Ryerson went back to his SUV and pointed it in the direction of the hotel. Too bad he hadn’t thought to send someone after the group who left on the motorcycles. He was pretty sure Vivian was with them. He’d been too busy with Bart. Rest his soul. He had compassion. Well, some. Bart would have had to die eventually. He was too strong in his fox. Ryerson could only hope the wolf stayed in place. It was the calm before his storm. The Wrath of Ryerson would be unleashed. His laughter carried on the wind.

**** Russ stopped at the local discount store. They should have the disposable phones. Not that he cared if they were tracked through his phone or credit card. He wanted the bastards to find them so he could get this over with and go home. Get settled with his mate. He’d had enough drama to last a lifetime. “What are you thinking?” Vivian invaded his thoughts. Not that she was ever far from them. “That you’ll look great sprawled naked across my bed, writhing underneath me,” he whispered in her ear. Vivian’s face flared red and Russ grinned. Red was a good colour for her. He’d have to keep her that way. “Ah—well then.” Vivian laughed and entwined their fingers. “The phones look to be over there. Should be a disposable one. We’ll call your family and then head out. I don’t want to stick around here too long. I want you safe before I confront Ryerson.” “If that’s the case, why didn’t you have me go with the others and head out on your own?” Vivian questioned. “I wanted a little more time with you. And a good leader knows you can’t fight alone. Once we get to the safe house we’ll regroup and get a fight plan together. Hopefully by the time we get there my men will already have it worked out.”

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They reached the phones and Russ grabbed one and went to pay with Vivian close by his side. Once they got to the parking lot he handed the phone over for Vivian to activate it. In mere minutes she had the phone to her ear saying hello to someone on the other end. “Hello, Mom. Yes. It’s me.” A pause. “I’m fine. Yes, so is Ive. Greycen showed up as well. Is Dad there?” Vivian waited for a response. Russ hated not hearing both sides of the conversation. Hated not knowing what they could be saying to Vivian. “Speaker is fine, just get him—oh hi, Dad. Listen, I don’t have a lot of time.” She was interrupted. “No. I’m good. No I’m not under duress.” Vivian rolled her eyes at him and smiled. “I need you to call Ryerson back home. No. I’m not coming with him. I found—” Vivian looked at him again. “I found my mate and I’m going to stay here.” Russ’ heart warmed at hearing her say the words. His mate. Staying here. Music to his ears. She was talking again. “I know you picked him and he’ll be disappointed, but you know as well as I do that a mate is a big deal. I’m staying. I will never be with Ryerson. Dad, you could always make him your heir. I’m—I’m happy here. Ive and Greycen are staying too.” Vivian wrapped up the call and handed him the phone. “Well?” he asked. “They aren’t completely happy, but they promised to call Ryerson home. But I really don’t think he’ll listen. I’ll call again when we get to your safe house to see what Ryerson’s response is. My parents are good people, mostly, but Ryerson has some sway over them. It wasn’t always so bad at home.” Russ hugged Vivian to him, offering her a little bit of comfort. “All right, let’s get going. The boys should be close to the house by now as long as they didn’t run into any complications. I don’t want to be too far behind them. The roads have been clear so I don’t think we have a tail. And there was no time to plant tracking devices. We should be good to go.” “Thank you.” “For what?” Russ kissed Vivian’s forehead. “Just—being you. That’s all. You could have thrown us out, but you listened to Ive and let us help. I know you were disappointed with the way things turned out with Djimon being

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an escaped soul possessing Djimon. But you’re strong and true and I think I’m falling in love with you.” Vivian whispered the last words. Russ pulled her closer and kissed her lips, truly happy for the first time in years. He’d watched David and Max find their true soulmate and didn’t really think he would have that luxury. Running the pack would have been enough. Now he knew how hollow that was. “I love you,” he stated. No thinking about it. This woman had his heart in her hands. It was a good feeling. Not all mates could love each other. Most did, but he’d heard horror stories and he was more than happy that he would have a love match. Now to keep her safe. Russ got on the bike and held out a hand to help her on. Vivian wrapped herself around him and they raced off. Destination? Pack safe house. They should be there in a couple of hours.

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Chapter Six

Vivian rested her cheek on Russ’ back. The vibration from the motorcycle strummed through her body. She was a little sore from last night and this morning, but there was no way she was complaining. Things were looking up. She couldn’t wait until Ive returned. She missed her friend and protector. Vivian hoped things were going well with the group charged to destroy the Vessel and bringing Djimon out of the darkness after so many years of being repressed in his own body. She couldn’t even imagine being an onlooker while someone else controlled her body. Enough negative thoughts. Hopefully the trip to Africa went smoothly and things could start to become more normal. They’d been on the road for a couple of hours. Finally a house came into view. It wasn’t as grand as the pack’s true home, but it was beautiful. She could tell it was a replica, but on a smaller scale. Russ’ pack wasn’t small; she wondered how they all fit in the building. The bike slowed to a stop and Russ hopped off before helping her. It didn’t take long for a group of men to emerge from inside. They looked fierce and Vivian was glad they were on her side. “What the fuck took you so long?” Max was the first to speak. “I wanted to make sure we were alone and Vivian had to call her parents. And since when do I answer to you?” Russ cocked a brow. This was the true alpha coming out and Vivian was in awe. Russ was brilliant. Max shifted his eyes away and tilted his head to the side, baring his throat. Vivian went and kissed it like she had with Peter and Everett. “What the hell?” Max’s eyes widened and he backed away. Russ chuckled. “Let’s go inside. We have too much to talk about as well as having me formally introduce my mate.” Max nodded and turned to the house. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean—it’s just—it was natural and I did the same thing with—” “Don’t apologise. Max wasn’t expecting it. He tends to be a big warrior man and is probably afraid Valerie will kick his ass for letting another woman touch him.”

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“Well—I didn’t think of that. I should—” “Valerie will be fine. You’re their alpha now too. It was a show of your respect. Nothing more.” Vivian nodded. What a way to stick her foot in it before she was even introduced as the alpha’s mate. It wasn’t like Valerie didn’t know. She’d been there the day the mates were declared, but it hadn’t been consummated yet and the other woman had no way of knowing that things had changed. “Stop worrying.” Grey had fallen to her side. Vivian looked around but didn’t see Peter anywhere. Had things gone bad? “I can’t help it. You know how I get. I want everything to be all right.” “It will be. No worries.” Grey squeezed her hand and went inside ahead of her. David and Everett were two steps behind Russ. She needed his strength right now and hoped it didn’t make her appear weak. Vivian reached for his hand and he pulled her close. They entered together. Vivian stopped in her tracks when she saw all the faces in front of her. The whole pack was staring and she felt a little intimidated. She thought she’d have a little more time before the announcement, but it looked like things were going down now. She gulped. “I see that you’re all here. Safe and sound. Good. I have an announcement, then if anyone has any questions they can ask before we eat.” The crowd nodded. Russ never let go of her and she was grateful. She saw a few familiar faces. Cord was there, as was Peter. Grey had edged closer to his mate, but Peter moved away. Grey looked crestfallen, but held his spot. David and Everett joined Max in front. “First I wanted to let everyone know we won’t be here for long. We’re just here to regroup and I didn’t want the young hurt. Second, I wanted to introduce you to my mate. Vivian Sommer is mine. You can introduce yourselves once we get back home. Third, someone is trying to take her away from me and I won’t have it. The individuals who broke our wards are from her old pack and under the mistaken impression that Vivian will be returning with them. We’re going to show them they are wrong. Now, any questions?” Vivian looked over the group, but no one said anything until Everett finally spoke up. “Yeah, can we eat now? I’m starved.” David smacked the other wolf on the back of the head and the other wolves laughed.

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“See, nothing to worry about.” Russ kissed her in front of everyone. Not used to such public displays, Vivian knew her face must be red. A whistle from the crowd pulled them apart. “Dinner,” Vivian reminded Russ. Russ led her down the stairs and into the foyer. The wolves parted for them and all bared their necks as they passed. Vivian had the urge to kiss them all, the same way she had with Max, but Russ continued to pull her along until they reached the dining area. Again it looked like the other house on a smaller scale. There was no way they would all fit in there to eat. She really shouldn’t have questioned it. Most of the wolves grabbed food and left. The only ones remaining were the pack betas, their mates and Greycen. He fit in with the bunch. As the table filled there were only two spots left side by side. Peter had no choice but to sit next to his mate and he didn’t look too pleased about it. Vivian wanted to help so badly, but knew it wasn’t time. Some instinct told her to back off; that things would progress when they should. Dinner was a loud and boisterous affair. The way it should be. Max and Valerie were snuggled together. They hadn’t been mated long, but you couldn’t tell by looking at them. Off to the other side, Everett pulled Peter into conversation while Greycen listened. And she turned to see Bella holding David’s hand. Vivian’s gaze met Bella’s and Vivian didn’t break eye contact. Bella nodded with a smile. It had been a test of some kind and it looked like she had passed. “I don’t know who cooked this, but it’s excellent.” “Thank you.” Valerie and Bella spoke at the same time. “Do you do the cooking at the pack house as well?” Vivian wanted to find out as much as she could. “Not usually. We have a cook, but she isn’t feeling well so Valerie and I offered to fix the food. It’ll be okay. I just wanted you to know that.” Bella sounded so sure of herself. “I don’t understand.” Vivian was confused until she remembered that Bella could see the future and read minds. “Don’t worry, I can’t read minds as well as I used to. David helped me with a block and I’ve never been able to read shifters. But I do get visions. And the one I had last night had us back in the house with you and Russ at the head of the table. Ive was back with Djimon and

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Joy and Zareb were there as well. A family. All settled in. The way it was meant to be. So this too shall pass.” Bella grinned and went back to eating. For a woman who claimed not to be able to read shifter’s minds, she had Vivian pegged. “Don’t worry, Vivian. We’ll head back to the homestead tomorrow, take out the trash and get to know each other the way we should have before all this happened.” And there he was again. Her big strong alpha ready to take control. It looked good on him. She just hoped he didn’t lose it again when the others returned. She knew that having Max, Bella and Valerie strong in both shifting and magic around still made him question himself. She wished he could see himself the way she and the others saw him. “With you by my side? No worries.” Vivian grinned and sneaked a kiss. Under her breath she whispered, “I’m worried about Peter and Greycen.” Russ looked over at the two. Peter was on the edge of his seat as far away from Grey as he could get. “I’ll take care of that too. If we don’t hear back from Zareb and Ive soon I’ll send the guys after them to find out what’s going on. The trip should help bring them together. I mean—it seemed to work for us. As a matter of fact it worked for David and Max as well.” Russ grinned. Her man was devious when it came to matters of the heart. That was good to know.

Vivian insisted on helping with clean up. It was a good way to bond with the other women and she actually enjoyed the work and standing after being on the motorcycle for so long. Her legs still vibrated. “How are you two settling in with pack life?” Vivian asked. Russ had told her that Bella and Valerie were new to the pack and had their first changes recently. She hadn’t been aware that humans turned into wolves when they mated. Probably because her pack refused to mate until it was with other foxes. What a shame. They didn’t know what they were missing. “I’m good. It’s still weird, but I love David and couldn’t imagine being anywhere else.” Valerie nodded in agreement with Bella. Another woman had joined them in the clean up. Bella had introduced her as Erin. “They’re naturals.” Erin smiled.

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Between the four of them they had the place spic and span in no time. Vivian wondered if she could get them to help her when they got home. Home. It really would be hers and she couldn’t wait to explore all it had to offer. She still had to meet everyone and find out what exactly her position was. She knew she was considered their alpha, but at home that just came with a title and Vivian wanted so much more than that. She knew she could get all that she craved with these wolves. “Excuse me. Are you finished? If so, I want to take Vivian out back so we can shift.” Russ stood in the doorway. It took all of her control not to throw herself at him. She wanted to mate again. Soon. “All done.” Vivian put her hand towel on the counter and walked closer. Russ held out a hand and led her to the back door. She was nervous. Russ had never seen her in her fox form. “We can leave our clothes here. Bella will wash them and get your old clothes back to you by the time we return. She went shopping for some new things on the way here. Must have had a vision that we might need them. She’s gotten stronger since her mating. I hate having Ev’s scent on you.” Vivian rushed out of her clothes. Being a shifter, she wasn’t usually so modest. She’d changed in front of her den all the time. But somehow this was different. It was Russ and he was used to wolves. Before she could lose her courage, she shifted. It was a smooth process for her. One moment she was a human, the next a fox. Her pelt was blonde, like her hair. She used to wish she was red like Ive, but she’d come to terms with that long ago. She turned to see Russ had also shifted. He was magnificent and so big. He dwarfed her in this form. He nipped at her heels and they raced off into the night. It was good to run. If she were in human form she would have laughed at the pure joy of racing in the wind and through the trees. Yes. Home. Where Russ was, she’d have it.

**** Finally he’d found it. It hadn’t been too hard to find the safe house. Sanders had managed to track some bank account. Ryerson wasn’t about to question it. He was here now

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and he’d take care of business. He should have brought the others. He didn’t realise how many wolves there really were. No matter. He’d have Vivian dead by nightfall. Ryerson couldn’t believe his luck when Vivian stepped outside and shifted. One of the wolves was with her. He imagined it was her ‘mate’. Vivian’s parents had told him about the call, but he was able to persuade them to let him check for himself. The wounded ex and all. They’d played right into it and here he was. Ryerson didn’t chance a shift. The wolf was bigger than him when shifted, but none of that matter now. He had the magic in his system, he could conquer anything. And if not? His gun would work just fine. A nice wolf pelt might come in handy during the winter months. He laughed quietly and ran after the two. He kept downwind. No need to alert them to his presence. At least not yet. Ryerson hated the fact that the two seemed so happy. That should be him out there running with Vivian. Vivian mated to a wolf was unnatural. Their children would be mutants and he bet they wouldn’t be able to shift either. His pappy had told him stories about shifters who intermingled. Some of the kids had to be put down. What kind of life was that? Better he put them both out of their misery now. And if it got him his war? More power to him. The pair stopped on the edge of the woods. The wolf’s snout rose high like he smelt something. It couldn’t be him. Ryerson was downwind and concealed behind a tree. He stood motionless until the wolf returned his attention to the fox. Good. He still had time. He wanted the pair to move further away from the house. Less chance of others coming to the rescue. He wondered who he should kill first. He’d probably wound the wolf so he could watch his mate die. It’s what he deserved for taking something that wasn’t his. Ryerson hated the man with a passion he usually held in check. Well no more. His wrath would be known. He raised his gun and held his aim true and got the cocksucker in the hind leg. The yelp was small. Ryerson looked behind him, but no one rushed out of the house. Good. He moved silently towards his prey.

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Chapter Seven

Something wasn’t right. Russ lifted his nose, but didn’t smell anything. But the feeling wouldn’t go away. He turned to his little fox and was about to shift when he was hit in the back paw. He yelped and shifted as fast as he could. Contrary to the myth, you didn’t heal instantly after that first shift. It took a few times and still it wouldn’t completely heal without help. Russ clutched his leg and looked around. He needed to get Vivian to safety. When he went down, she shifted as well. “Run.” “No way am I leaving you here. What happened?” Vivian looked around. Good, she was being cautious. “I was shot. You need to get to safety.” “Not without you.” Vivian reached down to help him to his feet. “Well, well, well. Looky what we have here. An abomination of mating. I wouldn’t have believed it if I hadn’t seen it. Vivian, you should be ashamed of yourself. Think of your children. Do you really want to have to put them down? Come with me and I won’t tell a soul. Promise. We’ll keep it between us. And if he already got you with child? I’ll take care of the beast for you.” The hatred rolling off the man was palpable. “What have you done, Ryerson?” Vivian stood her ground. If it was in a different situation he’d be so proud of his little Amazon, but the crazy had a gun. “I know my parents told you to go home and leave me.” “You’re under duress. Understandable. That or the wolves brainwashed you. Let’s go home.” Ryerson made a grab for Vivian. Russ growled low in his throat. No way was this happening. He threw his head back to howl. “I wouldn’t do that if I was you.” Ryerson had the gun aimed at Vivian’s head. He couldn’t chance it. “It’s okay, Russ. I’ll go with him. Find me.”

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“Now, now, none of that, Vivian. He won’t be going anywhere.” Another shot echoed in the twilight. Russ’ world went dark and there was nothing he could do about it. The bastard had won.

Russ didn’t know how much time had passed. He’d blacked out against the pain. The bullet had hit his shoulder just missing his heart. He needed help. No way could he leave Vivian in the crazy man’s hands. Who knew what he would do? Russ had a feeling Vivian wouldn’t make it home alive. There was something in Ryerson’s gaze that would haunt Russ until the day he died. The man was crazy. And if Russ wasn’t mistaken—magic drugged. The power the fox held didn’t feel natural to Russ. He’d seen it one other time, right before his parents died. The other shifter didn’t seem—right. There was no other word for it. Russ could smell the imbalance before his pack mate was brought down and Ryerson smelt the same to Russ. Unnatural. He was naked and helpless, but not for long. Russ howled at the moon. The back door crashed open and Greycen stumbled out with Peter, Max and David on his heels. “Bella told us to hurry. What the hell happened?” Greycen demanded. “Where is Vivian?” When this was over he owed Bella a big kiss. Thank goodness the Ancients had given her a vision. “Ryerson has her and he’s magic drugged. There is no telling what he’ll do.” “You need to shift a couple times so we can get looking. I’ll go get some bandages.” Peter rushed back to the house. “Get him clothes too,” Max called to Peter. “I need someone to start following her scent. Greycen? You’ve know her the longest. Go. Find her. Max, go with him. You have the magic in case you need to counter anything Ryerson throws out there. I’ll be close behind.” Russ would have justice in this. “I’ve never dealt with a magic drugged person. I have no experience and you know my power is still new to me. I could fuck up.” “I have faith in you, Max. You’re strong. Just focus on getting her back,” Russ encouraged. “I can go,” Peter broke in as he handed the clothes over to Russ along with the bandages.

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“What?” Greycen answered for him. “I know some about being drugged with magic. I can help.” Russ didn’t have time to question Peter on where he’d experienced the drug. There would be time for that later. “Then go. The three of you leave now. There is no telling what he’ll do in his rage and Vivian has to be scared. Hurry.” The three men turned and walked off into the night. Russ had never wanted to follow so badly in his life. Vivian, his life, was out there somewhere and he needed to get her back. Peter had dropped the bandages. Russ sopped up some of the blood and was about to reach in for the bullet when a pair of hands stopped him. “Let me help.” Valerie looked off to were Max disappeared. “He’ll be fine.” Russ assured her. “I know.” Valerie turned to his wound. “I’ll get the bullet out and you can shift. It should heal it up enough for you to function. I know you’re going to charge after them.” Valerie was efficient and Russ was ready to go in a matter of minutes. But he had to do something first. As much as he didn’t like Vivian’s old tribe, he needed to warn her parents on what might be coming their way. He wouldn’t give Ryerson what he wanted, no matter what. There would be no war between the foxes and wolves. Something would have to be done with the attitude the den seemed to have, but that could be taken care of after Vivian was safe where she belonged. Maybe they could plan a trip out. Plan firm in mind, Russ went to get dressed and grab the phone Vivian had used to make her call earlier. Time to get his family home and settled. He’d send David and Bella back to investigate and if things were good, the pack would be home by tomorrow. It was about damn time for things to return to normal. The fucking Ancients had better be done with their testing. They needed a break. He knew they were the ruling force and the creators of shifters, but enough was enough. “Did you hear that?” Russ looked up towards the heavens. “We need a break. You can’t keep throwing this shit at us. We took care of the Vessel. Give us peace.” A gentle breeze was his only warning. Bringing the tribes together will be the last test of your worthiness. We need a strong front as we go forward. Shifters will be exposed. Soon. If we are not united much will be lost. The Vessel going

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home is the beginning of the end of our hiding in plain sight. Find your mate and hurry. You’re running out of time. Pain slammed into his head. It was always like that when the Ancients talked to him. Fuck. Russ staggered and fell on his ass clutching his forehead. Russ bolted up and raced to the house. He knew where Ryerson was taking Vivian and he didn’t have much time.

**** “Where are you taking me?” Vivian wrapped her arms around herself, wanting to hide her nakedness. “Shut up and put this on. You disgust me.” Ryerson took his shirt off and threw it at Vivian. She didn’t want his scent on her, but she wanted him looking at her even less. “If I disgust you, why didn’t you kill me when you shot Russ?” Oh, god. Russ. He’d gone down and not moved. He couldn’t be dead. Fate wasn’t that cruel. She refused to believe that he would be taken away from her. Vivian covered her mouth to hold in the scream. She wouldn’t cry. Not in front of Ryerson. She stood up straight and glared. “Because, Princess, I need a body to show Mom and Dad.” A body? What was he talking about? Oh. No. “You’re going to kill me. Why didn’t you already?” Vivian resigned herself to the worst. As much as she wanted Russ to save her, she was going to have to get herself out of this mess. And she didn’t have the first clue on how to do that. She wasn’t a warrior. She had bodyguards for goodness sake. “I didn’t want any more of your friends to come out. Did you rut with them all? Fucking beasts. You should have stayed home like a good little girl and fallen in with my plans. But no, you had me traipsing all over the place going after your ass. You’ll pay for that.” “Mom and Dad won’t believe you.” “Yes, they will.” Ryerson’s eyes flared an unnatural red. What was wrong with him? Ryerson had always been ruthless, but this was new. He held no magic that she knew of. None of her den was strong with it. “Even if they do, how are you going to get rid of them and take over?”

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“War my dear. Plain and simple. They will be casualties after they’ve declared me their heir. Then I don’t need them and the tribe will be mine. Now shut up. I need to get a little further away before I take care of you. Make sure I’m not followed.” Her parents were going to die and it was her fault. Damn it. She’d told them to make Ryerson their heir. After they saw her dead body, it would be easier to hand things over. Her den might not understand that love was all that mattered and killing her parents would only make things worse. What was she going to do? Vivian looked around the landscape to see if there was anything around to help her, but she was drawing a blank. Ryerson was stronger than her. She’d need something to give her leverage over him. The area had very little vegetation and no fallen tree trunks to help. Vivian stumbled over a root in the ground. Maybe she could slow things down? Someone had to know something was wrong by now. Didn’t they? She hated feeling like a damsel in distress. She was alpha. Not some weak-willed ninny. She twisted her ankle in the root. Purposely landing on it wrong. It hurt, but was worth it to slow Ryerson down. If he were to be believed he wouldn’t kill her yet. “What the fuck? Get up.” “I can’t.” Vivian played up the whine in her voice. He needed to think her weak. “I—it hurts. I twisted it.” Ryerson bent down and dragged her to her feet before hoisting her over his shoulder. She should have thought of that. It wouldn’t slow him down too much. How much time had passed? Had someone found Russ? Was he still alive? Please be alive. Oh, God. Please. I love you. Don’t die. Now that she was hidden from Ryerson’s view she let the tears fall. Her heart hurt and she couldn’t imagine a life without Russ. Not that it would matter if Ryerson succeeded in killing her. It took her a few minutes to realise the good thing about her position. She could reach the gun. The idiot had put it in his pants. It peeked out. Vivian took a deep breath, closed her eyes and made the grab. She threw her weight at his back making his balance off. He stumbled and she fell, the gun now in her possession. She shuffled away from him. The leaves and twigs dug into her ass.

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She could do this. Save herself. The only problem she had was not knowing where she was and how far they’d walked. She needed civilisation, but she had nowhere to hide the gun. She’d have to take over now. “Stay where you are,” Vivian shouted. He laughed. The stupid crazy man—laughed. “Put the gun down, Vivian.” She had this strange urge to listen to his command. Vivian shook her head. No. She was in control. “I said stand down or I will shoot you.” “You don’t have it in you. Give it to me.” Ryerson got off the ground and stalked towards her. She didn’t want to, but she wasn’t letting him take over. She closed her eyes and squeezed the trigger. Nothing happened. “Stay back.” Vivian moved backward. What was wrong with the gun? It didn’t fire and he was getting closer. Safety. Shit. Yes, she had to take it off. He wouldn’t have the weapon down his pants ready to fire. Vivian took a second to look down at the gun. That was all he needed. Ryerson pounced on her as she switched the safety to the off position. Her finger squeezed and the gun went off. They both froze. Vivian didn’t feel any pain. Had she hit him? She needed him down for the count. The only drawback to her twisting her ankle was she couldn’t run. If she shifted—she could do this. Ryerson fell to the ground, but she couldn’t see where he was hit. Vivian threw the gun as hard as she could, away from Ryerson. She wouldn’t be able to hold on to it when she changed. She took the shirt off and shifted. Her fox was strong. The shift took some of the burn off her leg. Not looking back she turned and raced in the direction they’d come from. Back to Russ. A hand stopped her. She let out a high-pitched yap and bit at the fingers. She had to run. So close to being free. He’d tricked her. Vivian nipped and yapped. Long and loud. Someone had to be out there. “You bitch.” Ryerson slammed her into the ground forcing her to shift back. She couldn’t move. It was too late. He’d kill her now for sure. I love you, Russ. Sorry. I’m so sorry.

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Chapter Eight

Russ had caught up with the others. It wasn’t too hard, with the Ancients help he’d known right where he needed to be. “Wait. Did you hear that?” Russ halted the others. There it was again. Screams like someone was being attacked. It had to be Vivian. “Don’t.” Greycen stopped his mad dash. “Let go of me if you want to keep that hand.” “Listen to me. We can’t charge in there. We could make things worse.” Russ paused and took a deep breath. Greycen was right. He would take the man’s counsel. “You’re right. Split up. Max, come with me. Peter and Greycen work your way around so we can come at this bastard from both sides. I want him surrounded and he is mine. Are we clear?” Nods followed his announcement. He’d kill Ryerson for harming a hair on Vivian’s head. Max powered up his hands. The flashes of light still held Russ in awe. To have that power would be wondrous, but it didn’t make him feel less anymore. He was strong in his own way. His power was in his leadership. Why the fuck it’d taken him this long to figure out he had no idea. Zareb had as much as told him that a good leader used his people’s strengths for the greater good of the tribe. And Zareb should know. Calm. Focus. He would do this and no one would get hurt. Well, except Ryerson. He would bruise the fox a little before bringing him down. His own den could bring him to justice. “Keep it light. I don’t want him dead. Yet,” Russ whispered to Max. Max winked at him and continued on. If the situation wasn’t so dire, he might have laughed. They got closer to the sounds. Then silence. Russ closed his eyes. He couldn’t rush in. She might get hurt worse. Russ looked at the scene before him and saw red. Rage took over. He made sure Greycen and Peter were in position and he charged. Max didn’t have time to use his power.

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He heard the curse and the ground erupt beside him. His sole focus was Vivian lying lifeless on the ground. Ryerson better hope she wasn’t dead. Russ let his men take care of Ryerson. He had to make sure Vivian was okay. He raced to her side, knocking Ryerson out of the way. He cradled her naked body in his lap and rocked her back and forth. “Don’t be dead. I just found you.” Russ laid her out flat on the ground, careful not to jostle her. He framed her face in his hands, tears streaming down his face. He peppered kisses on her eyes, her lips and her cheeks. Anywhere he could reach. He could hear commotion behind him, but he ignored it. “Please, baby. Wake up. I need you. Don’t die on me. Damn it, Vivian. Wake up and show me those beautiful blue eyes.” Russ stroked her hair and ran his hands over her body. She didn’t appear to be harmed. Her ankle looked blue. It was the same one she’d hurt when she’d showed up on his doorstep. Rocking back and forth. And back and forth. He didn’t know who he was soothing. Her or himself. “Did you check her pulse?” Peter sat down next to him. Russ blinked his eyes and growled when Peter put a hand on Vivian. Stop. Control. It was Peter and he wanted to help. Shit. He’d never thought of that. Stupid, stupid. His fingers explored her neck, searching for that wonderful beat that would mean she lived. He bowed his head and hovered over Vivian’s lips. Her pulse was faint and if he listened close he could hear the air puffing out of her lungs. “Is she—” Greycen whispered? “She lives. Her pulse is weak. We need to get her home.” And showered. She smelt of the other fox and Russ’ wolf wanted to obliterate it. Thinking of foxes— “Where is he?” Max dragged the other man forward. Ryerson was unconscious. “Dead?” Russ asked dispassionately. “No. You said you wanted him alive.” Max shook his head like he wanted to go ahead and kill the man. Russ almost let him, but this wasn’t their fight. Max held out a gun. “Found this over there.” Russ gestured for Max to hand it over to Greycen. He would have his hands full with his mate. Nothing would stand in his way of her in his arms.

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“Good. That’s good. Can you keep him subdued? And I shouldn’t be around him or I’ll rip his throat out.” Russ picked Vivian up and headed for the truck he’d left at the side of the road about a mile up. The Ancients hadn’t shown him this part. Of course not. They liked to keep him guessing. But at least she was alive. He had to take what he could get. Vivian didn’t stir on the trip to the truck nor did she wake when they got back to the safe house. He was beginning to worry. “Max, could you find out if David and Bella made it home and what they found? I need someone to guard Ryerson and someone to take charge of getting people back to normal.” “Done deal, Russ. Valerie and I’ll get everyone rounded up. I’ll speak to David and keep you updated.” “Thanks, Max.” Russ continued to take Vivian down the stairs to his room. “I’ll keep watch over Ryerson. What are your plans with him?” Greycen spoke up. “I’m taking him home to your tribe. I’ve already spoken to Vivian’s parents. That’s why it took so long for me to get to you. They were unaware of a few facts. I set them straight and there will be a tribunal when we get to Greenland.” “They’re going to the homeland?” “Yes. They felt it was the only way to appease what had happened. To cleanse the den. It’s a good thing.” “I’m going with you,” Greycen stated. Russ had no problem with that. It was his plan all along. The den needed to realise that different was good. And what better way than to bring men who were mates. It would work better if the two would truly bond, but Russ would never force the issue. “Yes. You and Peter will be by our side while Max and David hold down the fort here.” Peter looked uncomfortable with the situation, but to his credit, said nothing. Greycen had stopped talking too and looked at his mate. Peter didn’t stay for long. He went back up the stairs. Greycen’s eyes followed him until he was out of sight. “Give him time.” Russ shut the door on Greycen and moved Vivian to the bed. She was beautiful in her slumber, but if Vivian didn’t wake soon he’d have to call in a doctor before taking her to her homeland. But things would be true and right from this moment on. He wouldn’t let her leave his sight for a solid month. Maybe longer. The image

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of her tied to his bed had his cock throbbing in his pants. He chided himself for having sexual thoughts while she lay so still. “Come on my little vixen. Wake up. Open those blue eyes.” Russ ran his hands over her body. He still couldn’t find anything that would cause her to not wake up. She had a small knot on the back of her head, but it wasn’t bleeding. What Russ wouldn’t give to be wrapped in her arms. He never should have fought as hard as he did in the beginning. It was unnatural to deny your mate. Now look where he was. Lying in a bed with an unconscious mate. Russ stroked her face and ran his thumb over her lips. He remembered them on his skin. Kissing him. He nuzzled into her neck. Wait. Her pulse. Russ kissed her throat and her heartbeat sped up. She was reacting to him on a subconscious level. “Baby? Wake up now. You’re safe. Please.” Russ willed her eyes to open. Russ knew it was in his power to force her awake, but he nearly screamed for joy when her eyes fluttered. It took a minute for her to fully wake up. When she did, she scrambled up the bed like she was running. He soothed her as best he could. “Vivian. Honey. You’re safe.” He let his fingers trail up her leg. Hoping his touch would ground her. Vivian looked around like she expected to see someone other than him. That bastard would pay for the terror he put her through. “R-Ryerson?” Vivian squeaked out and threw herself into his arms. It was like coming home. She was his very soul. “You’re safe. Greycen is on guard duty. You’re safe.” He repeated his words in hopes they would penetrate her fog of panic. “Safe.” She burrowed in closer nuzzling his neck. “Oh, my god. Are you okay?” Vivian ran her hands over his body. Inspecting him the way he had her earlier. He cock was getting hard having her fingers touch him. “We’re both safe. A little banged up, but good. You’re good. And mine. You’re not leaving my sight again.” “As long as the same goes for you,” she whispered against his lips. “Make me feel alive, Russ. I need you. Please.” “This might not be the best—you just—that is—fuck. Vivi.” She’d bitten his neck. Hard. Russ arched his body up to hers. Right. Enough talk.

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Russ gently untangled himself from Vivian and placed her on the bed. She started to protest, but he laid a finger over her lips. He stood up and peeled off his clothes. Layer by layer unveiling himself to his mate. She licked his lips and he could swear he felt it in his dick. It pulsed, wanting in to her warm wet heat. “Mine,” he stated. “Yours,” she answered, her voice roughed from her screams. Russ didn’t want to think about the pain she’d been in. What had caused her to yap in agony? Vivian would tell him in her own time. He moved closer to the bed. Vivian took control. She pushed him down and crawled up his body. She took his mouth in a hard kiss. Biting and nibbling then licking to soothe his swollen lips. Her mouth trailed down his body, stopping at his nipples. Russ held her close to his heart as she lapped and nipped. Anything for her. “Take what you need.” “I need you,” she whispered against his stomach. He didn’t let go of her head, guiding her down his body. Her tongue dipped into his belly button. He tried not to squirm. She hummed her pleasure and moved on. “I’m yours. Forever. Heart and soul.” That earned him a kiss on his hipbone. He had to let her go and grab the sheets. Vivian reached his dick and she didn’t go for the quick blowjob. No, she nuzzled his balls and took them into her mouth. Sucking hard. Russ’ hips cleared the bed. He had to force himself to settle back down. He was so hard and needy. And alive. He burned with desire to be one with his mate. But he let her take the lead. She needed to feel empowered and he wasn’t going to stop her. Russ sighed in relief when his cock eased past her red lips. Her tongue lapping at his pre-cum. She moaned around his dick. He bit his lip. No way he wanted to come yet. He needed inside her body. “Need—” Vivian rubbed her check along his length. “What. Tell me,” Russ managed to rasp out. “Hard. You. God, Russ. I—fuck me.” Her face coloured as the words left her lips.

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His beautiful baby. He could do that. Russ flipped them around and her legs opened wide so he could rest between them. They fit together so perfectly. Russ didn’t waste time. She wanted hard, he’d give her hard. Russ took both of her wrists in his hands and held them tight, moving them to the headboard. The steel frame was perfect for what he had in mind. “Hold here and don’t let go.” Vivian nodded and complied with his wishes. Her reward was not waiting. She was already slick with need. Russ hissed as he slid into her hot pussy. Vivian clutched at him like she didn’t want to let him go. And he wouldn’t. Never again. His mate. His love. “Move,” she demanded. Russ pulled out until only the tip of his cock was enveloped in her warmth then he slammed back inside. Home. “So good,” he crooned. “Need—need—Russ—please.” “That’s it baby. What is it,” he panted. “Tell me.” “To touch. Let me.” Russ pressed her into the bed and grounded his pelvis against hers before responding. “Let go, love. Feel.” Vivian’s legs wrapped around him, digging her heels in, pulling Russ inside her deeper and deeper. He didn’t want to crush her, but she had her arms around his shoulders. She surrounded him and he thrust harder and harder. His hand going to her ass, clutching her tight. Vivian’s nails embedded themselves in his back. Russ kissed her neck and bit his mating mark. She went wild, bucking beneath him. “Close.” “Russ. Give it to me. Let go. Please—please—oh God. I need you.” Russ roared his release, his hips thrusting again and again. All control gone. His to give, hers to take. Every inch of him belonged to the woman under him. He breathed in her scent. Both of them panting. He moved off Vivian, rolling them to the side so he could keep her close to his heart. Right where she belonged.

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Russ rubbed light circles on Vivian’s back, bringing her down from her high. Both of them happy to be alive and with each other. Sealing their bond tighter than before. “I tried—” Vivian’s voice was so low he almost missed her words. “Tried what, baby?” He kissed her temple. “To get away. I had—I had the gun. I fired, but forgot the safety. Then I messed up, looked down. He charged and the gun went off. I thought—he went down—I—I thought— he’d been—hit.” Vivian’s voice rose with each word. Forcing them out. His soothing wasn’t working, but he needed to let her get through this. “I’m proud of you. So very proud,” Russ said over and over again. “I ran. So fast. I felt for sure I could get back to you. Always to you. You were—hurt and down and I didn’t know. I didn’t—know—if—oh God.” Vivian sobbed into his shoulder. “I’m fine. I’m here. Safe. Both of us. Safe.” He’d tell her that every day if he had to. “He tricked me. And caught me. I’d shifted and ran. But he was too fast. Slammed me down. I think I shifted then I was—and then—here—you—” He shushed her with a light caress of mouths. A lazy kiss back and forth. She opened for him and his tongue slid inside, sucking on hers. “None of that matters. Not now. Go to sleep. I’ll be here when you wake up. He can’t hurt you anymore. You’re safe with me.” “Safe.” She rubbed her face against his chest and placed her hand over his heart. Her breathing eased and she slid into a more natural sleep. Never again. No one would hurt his mate. He’d make sure of it. One more hurdle to overcome and they could go home and settle into the routine of running his pack. Nothing had sounded better in a long time. Russ drifted to sleep with visions of a happy future running through his head.

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Chapter Nine

“You can’t be serious.” Vivian looked at Russ in disbelief. He couldn’t mean it. No way. “I’m very serious. Peter and Greycen will be joining us.” He nipped at her throat. She purred at the sensation. He could keep that up forever. “This is a very bad idea,” Vivian managed. Russ had her in his lap and they sat in front of the fireplace in their room. Both naked and enjoying each other’s bodies. She absently plucked at his nipples. “It isn’t a bad idea. I already talked to your folks.” Russ licked the spot he’d worried with his teeth. “They’ll never accept you.” She tilted her head to give him better access. “Us. And certainly not Peter and Grey. It would be cruel to put Peter through their hatred.” “I think things will be a little different now.” He assured her. Russ’ hands travelled down her body. “What makes you so sure?” Vivian leant down and soothed the abused flesh with her tongue. Russ hissed, but answered her. She grinned against his skin. Two could play this game. “Ryerson had control over a lot of things for many years. The hate in your den isn’t as strong as you think. He was drugging himself so he’d have power over your people. We need to find his source. And soon. So your den can get to where they need to be. So we can bring both tribes together.” Her nipple disappeared between his lips. Her body responded. He played her so well. She wanted him inside her again. “W—why?” She was proud of herself that the words only came out sort of garbled. Her pussy ached for what only he could give her. “When you were taken, the Ancients—fuck that feels good.” Vivian had Russ’ balls in her palm, caressing them before taking his cock in hand. He retaliated by slipping a finger inside her. “You were saying?” “What? Oh—fuck. Yes. Um—they told me shifters would be outted and we needed to be together—wait—again—do that again. Yesss. Together. Yes.” Russ’ hips thrust up.

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It was more than she could take. Vivian impaled herself on Russ’ length. Taking him deep and rocking hard against him. He cupped her breasts and squeezed. She wasn’t going to last long. And from the sounds coming from him, neither would he. “Good. So good,” Vivian moaned against his mouth. She framed his wonderful face in her hands. “Vivian. Vivi. Babe. Oh—fuck!” Russ howled. That took her over the edge. She clenched around his cock, wanting him to stay inside as long as possible. Their lips strained against each other as they came down from their orgasmic high. Vivian snuggled in. Her mate, so big and strong. She was safe and protected. And for the very first time—whole. She smiled and kissed his collarbone. “It’ll be fine. You’ll see. I promise.” Her stomach growled and Vivian’s face heated. How embarrassing. But Russ didn’t let her hide. “How about a shower then some food?” Russ chuckled against her shoulder. “Yes. I think that would be great. Only—I need clothes.” “I’ll take care of that for you. Bella left the clothes she got for you in the dresser over there. Why don’t you go get them and meet me in the bathroom?” Vivian agreed, happy that they had a shower attached to the room. She didn’t relish running through the house to get clean. Russ was already under the water when she got there. He motioned for her to join him. She hurried in. She was cold and the water was so warm. Vivian needed to be clean. To wash away the last couple of days. He seemed to understand just what she needed. Russ’ hands caressed her body. Sudsing her up, taking special care with her breasts. She chuckled until his fingers moved to her clit. They pinched and squeezed, but didn’t stay for long. This wasn’t about sexual pleasure. It was about feeling clean. Vivian returned the favour, running her thumbs over his nipples and abs, tickling his sides. They hugged each other close before rinsing off. Russ wrapped her in a big fluffy towel, drying her off with sure strokes. The two dressed and headed to the kitchen. It was quiet in the house. “Where is everyone?” Vivian asked while opening the fridge.

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“They are headed back to the house. David and Bella gave Max the all clear. The only ones still here are you, me, Peter, Greycen and Ryerson.” “I see.” Vivian shuddered at the name of the mad man who had almost killed them. Russ pulled her in tight and gave her the support she needed. She’d take it. He released her and she went back to digging around in the fridge for food. “It will be okay. You’ll see. We’ll leave for Greenland tonight.” “Greenland?” Vivian cocked her head, sure she hadn’t heard right. Why would they go there? “Yes. Your parents want to try Ryerson in your homeland. Something about cleansing the den. I’m all for it if it will make things smoother for you. I’d like you to have a family.” “You are my family. Everything I need is here. Do we really have to go?” She hoped she didn’t sound as whiny as she felt. “Yes. We need to get everything straightened out. I want open communication between all shifters. We’re going to need it if we’re to be exposed. Humans are dangerous as a whole and I want things to be as smooth as possible.” “You’re a great leader. And I love you. Okay. Greenland. Tonight. Got it. What about now? What are you hungry for?” She didn’t want to think about being so near to Ryerson. If she never saw that bastard again she would be happy. But she would do anything for Russ. Even this. “You.” Vivian squealed when Russ grabbed her from behind and bit her sensitive neck. “I’m not an option.” Vivian swatted his hands away. Russ’ chuckle rolled along her skin. She loved that sound. He had the best laugh. And he was happy. Settled once again in his own skin. “Okay. What are our options?” “Looks like there’s some left over pizza, eggs.” Vivian moved a few things around. “Looks like some steaks, maybe some—yes—bacon.” “Did you say pizza?” Grey walked into the room. Vivian looked over, happy to see her friend was alive and well. “I did.” Vivian took it from the fridge and handed it off to Grey. “That looks good.” A soft voice came from the doorway. Peter had joined them as well. “Where’s Ryerson?” Russ demanded.

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Vivian gulped, not wanting to give her nervousness away. But she wanted to know too. “Tied to a chair that is chained to a wall as well as blindfolded and gagged. After we eat, I’ll get him something and we can get what we need together for the trip.” Grey paused and looked at Russ. “If that’s okay with you?” “Okay. That’s—okay. Grey, share the pizza with Peter and I’ll whip together some bacon and eggs.” Busy work would keep her mind off Ryerson and going to the homeland. She really didn’t want to speak to her parents, but Russ was right. They would need a strong front when humans found out about shifters. She hoped the others were back from Africa before that happened. She missed Ive. “Sounds good. Let me grab some toast.” Russ’ voice pulled her out of her thoughts. Breakfast. That would be good. She was hungry. “Scrambled okay with everyone? I think I saw some cheese too.” “Sounds good to me.” Peter smacked his lips. Grey couldn’t take his eyes off the man. She hoped Peter gave in soon. Peter noticed the attention he was garnering and blushed. The tough looking, Harley-driving man looked good in red. Not that she’d tell Russ that. She smiled over at her mate, happy to feel in charge. “What’s the smile for?” Russ kissed her cheek. “I’m just happy.” “Even though we’re going to your den?” Russ looked her in the eyes. “Yes.” She kissed his lips. “Because you’ll be there with me. And that is all that matters. Now—go make the toast.” Vivian slapped his ass. She laughed at his squawk of outrage. Peter and Grey joined in. The tone for the day was set. At least for the next little while they could all pretend that things were normal.

About five hours later the group boarded a private plane. They used the cover of night to hide the fact that Ryerson was bound and gagged. He shook in his ropes. Vivian almost felt sorry for him. Almost. The drugs Russ said he was on must be wearing off. Withdrawal setting in. Not a pretty sight at all. They settled in with Ryerson between Peter and Greycen in the back of the plane. She didn’t know how happy she was about that. She didn’t want him at her back. She didn’t trust

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him, but she did trust her pack. And that was what they truly were, whether she was a fox or not Vivian belonged with the wolves. “The pilot said we’d take off in just a minute. You comfortable?” Russ slipped into the seat beside her. “I am now.” Vivian snuggled into his side. “Wanna join the mile high club?” Russ waggled his eyebrows at her. Vivian laughed. She was sure that was what he’d intended all along. Russ held out his hand and she entwined their fingers. He squeezed it before kissing the top and putting them on his thigh. Warmth radiated from his pants. Feeling naughty, Vivian let her fingers move to the crotch of Russ’ pants. No one could see what she was doing. She caressed him through the denim. He pulsed under her control. She wanted him. Now. He might have joked about the mile high club, but if she could have him inside her right now she’d be a happy fox. She was turning into a little sex fiend. There was something about Russ that pushed all her buttons. “Babe.” Russ rocked up into her palm. He took their joined hands and pressed hard, sandwiching her free hand between pants and skin. “I want,” Vivian simply stated. Russ groaned and let go only to reach for her and unzip her pants. Vivian looked around. Peter and Grey were doing a good job of ignoring each other and Ryerson had his head down looking at his feet. She could do this. She popped the button on his jeans and slid the zipper down. Russ wasn’t wearing any underwear and sprung free. God, she wanted a taste. She would have it too. The seats were high enough that the others would have to stand to see over them to really know what it was she was doing. And Russ seemed more than willing to go at her pace. Vivian bent over and swallowed him whole. He bucked up, causing her to gag. She pulled back a little then took him in fully again. She felt him at the back of her throat and hummed. She glanced up to see him watching her. He bit at his hand so he wouldn’t make a sound. She rewarded him by swallowing with his cock at the back of her throat.

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His hairs tickled her nose and his balls were right there. She didn’t want to release his dick. Instead she tugged on them. Not too hard, just a pull. He came so hard she almost couldn’t take it all in. Russ dragged her up his body and took her mouth in a kiss, finally releasing a moan that only she could hear. Who was she fooling? There was no way that the three men in the back didn’t know what was going on. They were shifters after all. She was sure they could smell her arousal, but she didn’t care. Russ made her wild with desire. Not letting go of her mouth, Russ’ hands went exploring. She rocked in to his touch, needing the friction. She wanted to come so badly. It would be better around his cock, but she would take what she could get. She was so wet. His finger slipped inside her pussy. Her underwear held his digits tight against her. He used another finger. One hand played with her breast, tweaking her nipples through her shirt, the other had three fingers inside her now. Every once in a while he’d flick her clit. His mouth never left hers. He swallowed all of her noise. Vivian’s orgasm rolled through her body. She bit at Russ’ mouth, wanting a deeper kiss. He gave her everything she wanted and more. When she came down from her rush her mate had adjusted himself and straightened up her clothes as well. Her early trepidation forgotten, she snuggled in. Her body melted into his. All flights should be this nice. She sighed when Russ brushed a kiss on her forehead. “Love you,” he whispered. “Love you too.” And she did. More than she ever thought possible.

**** Russ couldn’t believe his angel. He never would have guessed she’d be one for public sex. Granted, they had been hidden by the chairs, but they were all shifters. The boys in the back knew what they were doing. But thank God they didn’t say anything. He didn’t want Vivian embarrassed by her bold display. And it had been. Bold. Russ had been joking about mile high clubs. But damn, what a way to pass the time. He grabbed a blanket he’d brought with him and covered them both. He couldn’t sleep, but he enjoyed watching her. So peaceful. He knew that wouldn’t last when they met up with her parents. He hated that he was putting her through this, but they

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needed closure and help. Russ hoped her parents were under some sort of control that could be broken and there wouldn’t be trouble. Of course, they still needed to find Ryerson’s magical source. Maybe when they did the hatred would fade. He would hate to deny his children family. Wait—children? Where did that thought come from? He wasn’t ready for that. Not yet. He wanted to enjoy getting to know Vivian first. But it was a nice thought. A daughter who looked just like his snow queen. A boy who took after him? Impossible dreams. Or they were at one time. Now he believed anything was possible. “Russ?” Peter hovered next to the chair. “What can I do for you Peter?” he whispered. “Just going to the head and wanted to let you know so you could help Grey keep an eye on Ryerson. Not that I think he’ll try anything, but you can’t be too careful.” “Grey is it?” Russ teased. Peter face went rosy. It was hard to tell sometimes with his bronze skin, but he looked good flushed. Maybe things were progressing better than he thought. “I—” “Don’t worry about it Peter. Go on. I’ll listen for anything unusual.” The man scurried away. Peter needed to let loose. Not that Greycen seemed to be the kind of man who had a lot of fun. Both him and his sister were stoic people. But Peter needed to belong. And Greycen was fiercely loyal. When he found out how Peter’s family had beaten him and thrown Peter out of the pack at such a young age Greycen would go ballistic. Russ just hoped he could keep the fox in check. They were going to have to do something about Peter’s tribe sooner or later if word really did leak out about shifters. Hmmm…maybe letting Greycen loose on them would work. He would never actually let Greycen decimate the other pack no matter how much he wanted to see them hurt for what they had done to Peter, but that was the past. Russ really hoped that was something they could change. The Ancients liked to tease with worse case scenarios. “You sicken me.” Russ wasn’t expecting the blow to the head or to hear Ryerson speak. He had enough wits about him to shift Vivian out of the way. What had happened to Greycen? There was no way Ryerson could have got past the fox. Was he still alive?

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Ryerson came at him again, but Russ was able to dodge him. Somehow the man had a knife. How was that possible? A roar filled the cabin and the blur that was Peter charged Ryerson. The knife flew and clattered to the ground. Peter pounded his fist into Ryerson. One after the other. The man had stopped moving, but Peter didn’t stop hitting. Russ shook his head, trying to clear his vision before pulling the other wolf away. He soothed him with gentle shushing noises. Vivian had woken up during the commotion and ran back towards Greycen. “He’s dead. I killed him.” Peter rocked back and forth. Russ looked over at Ryerson, but the crazy man’s chest moved up and down. He wasn’t sure why Peter was so concerned about the drugged up fox. “No you didn’t. He’s unconscious. You didn’t kill anyone.” “I didn’t kill Grey? He’s okay?” Russ was confused. “No, you didn’t kill Ryerson.” Peter spat towards the prone body. “Who gives a fuck about that piece of scum?” “You have to be clearer here, Peter. What are you talking about?” “I—I got up to go to the bathroom. When I got there I noticed my knife was gone. I rushed back, but by the time I got here Ryerson was attacking you and Grey. Oh my god. Grey.” Peter scrambled out of his arms and rushed to the bleeding man’s side. “Vivi?” Russ asked. “He’s breathing. He needs to shift. Do we have any medical supplies on board? I want to stop the bleeding.” Vivian placed a hand on Peter’s head, tangling her fingers to get his attention. Russ left to go to the cockpit. The first aid kit was by the doors. He hurried back to hear Vivian speaking. “He’s okay.” Peter was now in the chair beside Greycen. Ryerson still hadn’t moved. That was probably for the best. The state Peter was in now there was no telling what he would do. Not that Russ would blame him. Peter held onto Greycen’s hand. “I’m sorry. So sorry.” Peter whispered over and over, kissing the fingers in his grip. “Don’t.” The words were rusty, but Greycen was awake. That was good.

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Russ passed over the kit to Vivian so she could get to work. He went to Ryerson and did a body check. The man seemed clear of weapons. Now he needed to find something stronger to tie him up with. Somehow he had used the knife to cut through his other bonds. Russ found some duct tape on the floor and shrugged. He picked up Ryerson and put him in a single chair by the front and went to town with the tape covering the man from chest to feet. He wasn’t budging. Satisfied the man wouldn’t move, Russ went to the back of the plane. Greycen had a blanket over his lap and Peter hovered by his side. Like he wasn’t sure where he could touch. “Peter, sit down,” Russ demanded. Peter didn’t hesitate and sat next to Greycen. “He shifted once, but he might have to do it again here in a few. He’s too weak right now. The bleeding has stopped. So that’s good. What happened?” Vivian wrapped her arms around him and he held her close. “It seems he somehow got a hold of Peter’s knife and used it.” “That’s why he feels guilty.” Vivian gnawed at her lip. “Yep.” Russ soothed it with his finger. “Well, he needs to stop.” Vivian was firm on that issue and crossed her arms over her chest. “You tell him that.” He grinned. “I will.” Vivian moved to do just that, but Russ stopped her. “I was kidding. Let him be. He’ll pamper Greycen a little and maybe it will help him get over the fact he thinks he is an abomination that doesn’t deserve a mate.” “Oh. Well. Shit.” Vivian deflated. Russ looked at Vivian. She didn’t curse often and when she did he had to pause for a moment and try not to laugh. “Exactly. That’s why I told Greycen to give him some time.” “Good call, but sooner or later, Greycen won’t be able to wait any longer.” “I know. Look at me. I’m an idiot for waiting as long as I did.” “I won’t disagree.” Vivian smirked at him. “But my den is not the place for Peter to realise that he is who he is. They are hateful to anyone not ’normal’ to their expectations. You know, a fox and straight. Different is not tolerated.”

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“What Peter needs to see is that his family sees him for who he really is and nobody else should matter. We give him the love he needs. He’ll come around.” “If anyone says anything—I’ll kill them.” Vivian was seething. “There’s my little vixen. I’ll hand you the gun. Now let’s leave them alone. I was enjoying my in-flight entertainment before we were so rudely interrupted.” Vivian’s face was a deep red, but her eyes sparkled. He loved her naughty side and hoped it came out to play more. He checked on Ryerson and settled them into their seat and hoped the rest of the flight was uneventful.

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Chapter Ten

Vivian wasn’t ready to get off the plane and face her parents. She couldn’t think of them as family anymore. That was Russ’ pack. And she just wanted to go back to them and get to know the individual members. But she had faith in Russ and he said it had to be done. No matter what Russ thought, her parents were bigots. She didn’t think any kind of drug would force that reaction. She was lucky that they never knew for sure that Grey was gay or he would have never been her protector. “Come on. They’re waiting on us.” Russ whispered in her ear. “I—” She sighed. “I know.” She edged her way off the plane. She was the first to get off, Russ close behind her. Ryerson followed at gunpoint. And Peter used his shoulder to help Grey walk while holding the weapon on Ryerson. Vivian knew Peter would shoot Ryerson with little to no provocation. She felt like the pied piper with her merry bunch marching behind her. What ever happened, she was ready to be out of Ryerson’s presence. He oozed hatred from every pore of his being. She needed to take a shower after being near him. “Vivian. Good to see you.” Her mother nodded to her, but didn’t hold out her arms for a hug. Vivian shouldn’t be surprised, but it still hurt. “Mother.” She nodded back. “I’d like to introduce you to Russell Masters, my mate. As well as Peter Tyler, a member of our pack. Guys, this is my mother, Roberta Sommer.” Her mom did a double take at her words, but she wouldn’t take them back. Russ squeezed her shoulder before holding out a hand. “I believe I spoke to your mate on the phone. It’s a pleasure to meet you, Mrs Sommer.” “Please, it’s Roberta. I have a car waiting for us. Roger, my husband, is at the hotel. The ceremonial grounds are about an hour away. We’ll take care of the—trial tomorrow.” “Do we have a place to hold Ryerson?” Grey managed to get out. He still looked weak and Vivian didn’t miss the look of disgust on her mom’s face at seeing Peter with his arm around Grey. Like she couldn’t see the other fox was hurt. She was right, this was no drug, this was hate pure and simple. She wanted to go home. “We have a room set up. But I see no need for the gun.” Roberta looked at Russ.

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“There is every need. Ryerson will be watched until he can be brought up on charges. He already attacked Grey on the plane. I’ll not have any more members of my pack hurt by him. When we get to the hotel I would like to see Mr Sommer as well as his betas. We have some talking we need to do. Once Ryerson is taken care of tomorrow, we’ll be leaving.” Russ was firm on this. Vivian couldn’t be happier. She wanted the mess over with. “So soon?” Roberta looked nervous and clutched at the pearls adorning her throat. “Yes. Do you see a need for us to stay longer?” Russ’ tone was cool. He suspected something too. Her mother was acting strung out. Was there something to this magic? She still doubted it would bring forth something that wasn’t already there. “I thought we could—visit—I’d like to get to know—” Roberta grimaced. “My new son—” She almost choked on the words. “No need to put yourself out, Mother. I’m sure you’ll be happy to see the last of us. And so you know, Ive and Grey will be staying with me.” They finally reached the car. When they got to the hotel, Grey would have to shift one more time and rest so he could get his strength back. They were going to need it. Vivian had a bad feeling about this visit. The ride to the hotel was done in silence. Her mother kept looking back and forth between them all. Vivian had no clue who was driving the vehicle. She hadn’t seen him before, but that didn’t really mean too much. Vivian had stopped caring about the tribe a few years ago. She gnawed on her lip, worried about what could happen. Russ leant over to her and soothed her abused flesh with his finger. She smiled at him. Okay. I can do this. The car stopped at a battered hotel. Vivian wasn’t sure why they were staying at such a run down place. The last time they’d made a visit to Greenland it had been on the den’s land. Something was very off. “Here we are. Oliver, one of our betas, will escort Russ and the rest of us—” “No thank you, ma’am. We’ll be doing this meeting together. Oliver is more than welcome to join us.” Roberta looked at Oliver for permission. It was then she knew. Her parents weren’t in charge any more. This—whoever he was—had taken over. Shoot. She wished she could push

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her thoughts through to Russ. She had to warn him somehow. Why all the subterfuge? Russ would have talked to the person in charge, no matter who that was. And why did they want to separate them. “Wait,” Vivian demanded. “Grey, shift.” If anyone was stunned by the order, they were silent. And Grey hurried to obey. The shift was over fast. It had given the man more of his strength and he would have a jolt of energy. Enough that they should be able to take care of this situation before he crashed. Peter helped him back on his feet and Russ nodded at her. “Okay, Oliver. If you’d show us the way,” Russ announced. Good. They were on the same page. Russ had noticed the hesitation in her mother’s response. She hoped that one of the betas would be able to take over the den. Her father obviously wasn’t strong enough if they were deferring to someone else. When they got into the room, Vivian’s father was on the bed staring at the ceiling and not moving. “What’s wrong with him?” Russ demanded. Grey and Peter surrounded Oliver. Russ shoved Ryerson into a chair. “What’s going on, Mother? The truth.”

**** Russ didn’t like the situation at all. They needed to take care of this before anyone else showed up. Vivian had been great, having Greycen shift before they got into the room, it would give them a slight advantage and they might need it. Vivian must have seen her mother waiting for Oliver to okay the situation. No way an alpha would do that in front of strangers. They’d want to show no weakness for fear of being overthrown. Roger was no more than a puppet. Russ had to wonder who else was under Oliver voluntarily. Roberta burst into tears at Vivian’s question and they didn’t have time for the nonsense. Oliver wasn’t talking and had a shit-eating grin on his face. It would be Russ’ pleasure to knock it off. He stalked forward. “I don’t think so alpha man. This is my show.” Oliver brought forth a ball of power in his hands. It wasn’t the same as Russ had seen in the past. The colour was a muddy black.

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Could it be this easy? Was Oliver the source of the drug? If so, he’d seriously underestimated Russ. He continued forward and Oliver let loose. The ball of energy hovered around Russ and dissipated before it could touch him. Oliver cursed and readied another ball. Russ continued forward. Again, the energy disappeared. “What the hell? You have no magic. I was told—” The confusion was clear on Oliver’s face. “No. I don’t have any magic. But there is one thing you didn’t think of. I’m immune to most of it. Now why don’t you sit your ass down and start talking.” Russ pushed him none-too-gently into the seat next to Ryerson. There would be no trial, but the trip wasn’t a total waste. Ryerson’s shoulders slumped. He must have realised he was on the losing end of this fight. “I don’t wanna die, man. I was just doing what I was told and going after what was mine.” Ryerson snivelled. He couldn’t control the growl he released. “Where did the drug come from?” Russ asked Ryerson “Where do you think, asshole. Talk to me. Not the help. I’m in charge here and if you know what’s good for you, you’ll head back home and let my main man take care of you when he’s ready,” Oliver answered for Ryerson. “And what main man would that be you piece of shit?” His temper was fraying. Usually he had more control, but with Vivian there and maybe in danger, his wolf wanted this situation done with. “Like you don’t know,” Oliver scoffed. Russ backhanded him. It felt good. He grinned showing his canines. “Dmitri. Okay! He put Oliver in charge. I need—please,” Ryerson whimpered. “Shut the fuck up!” Oliver surged out of his chair and put both hands on Ryerson’s chest. They began to glow. Grey and Peter moved forward as one. Russ thought he might be too late. “Stop!” he shouted. Peter and Grey froze, but Oliver kept going, laughing the whole time. He was mad. Russ knocked Oliver away, but Ryerson was already dead from the magic Oliver had pushed into Ryerson’s body.

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“Dmitri is dead.” Russ didn’t shout. He whispered the words, but they were enough to stop the cackle from Oliver. “You lie.” Oliver stood like he would charge Russ, but his eye darted around. He was going to have to take the other man down. Now that Russ knew who was behind everything, he really didn’t need Oliver any more. Dmitri was gone, cast back to the Vessel and Djimon was in control of his own body now. He might not even be aware that Dmitri had set this in motion. Russ and his pack were safe from that avenue. Oliver moved in Vivian’s direction. That was the last move he made. Russ charged him, half shifting so his claws popped out. He slashed Oliver’s throat. Justice was served. “Russ!” Vivian shouted. “Roberta, are there any others?” Russ needed to know. Their safety was of the upmost importance. The woman was rocking back and forth with her husband’s head in her lap. “N-no. Oliver said he wouldn’t need anyone else.” “How are things at home?” Russ wondered if Oliver had left his people in charge there. “Now that Oliver is gone it should be fine.” Roberta soothed her husband’s head, her fingers tangling in the man’s hair. “What happened to Roger?” Russ asked quietly. “Oliver drugged him.” Roberta wouldn’t look back up. “How long has this been going on?” Vivian asked. Russ could hear her anger. “Years. I—sorry—I—oh Viv.” Roberta still wouldn’t look up. “What about the hate? The no inter shifter mating? Was that all Oliver?” Vivian pressed on. Roberta looked at Russ before averting her eyes. “I—don’t—I—” She sobbed into Roger’s chest. “It’s okay, Mom. I should have known. I should have—” Vivian sat on the other bed and just stared at her parents. “You know Dad can’t be alpha any more, right? There is no way the tribe will respect him after this.” His mate wasn’t pulling her punches. “But—” Roberta stood. “It wasn’t Roger’s fault. Why should he—I—that isn’t fair.”

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“I know. But face facts. Even with the drugs, he was weak. A puppet. You two will have to help rebuild, but from the side-lines.” Vivian reached out for her mom, but stopped from actually touching her. Russ hoped that bond could be repaired with time. “It’ll destroy him,” Roberta whispered. “At least he’ll be alive. If he steps down, he’ll have the respect of your den. If he helps the new alpha, it will only bring strength. I’m sure Roger will agree. If not, he’ll be challenged again and again for the right to remain in charge. Is there someone who would be willing to step in?” Russ was in complete agreement with Vivian’s words. “I would say Greycen. Roger has always admired him.” Peter rumbled behind Russ, “Even if he’s gay?” “Hey now. Peter.” Greycen tried to stop Peter. “What? Didn’t you tell them? Don’t they know?” Peter looked hurt. “Well, now they do.” Greycen gave a lopsided grin. Peter looked crestfallen, his face going pale and he charged from the room. “Thank you for the support, Roberta, but I have other responsibilities now. Russ, I’ll be back to help with the bodies. I need to find Peter.” Greycen followed his mate from the room. “He knew and he didn’t care. I—I hate to say it, but I was the one who pushed for only fox mating. And how unnatural men—” Roberta paused. “Anyway. That wasn’t your father. I want you to know that. I had—there were things in my past I’m not going to talk about. Are you happy, Vivian?” Russ stood back watching the two women interact. He wanted to comfort his mate, but she stood tall and proud. He wouldn’t take this moment from her. “I’m very happy, Mother. And I want you to be happy for me. But you have some things to take care of first. And I would suggest Holt be raised as alpha. He’s always been fair and he’s a strong beta and will be good with Dad guiding him.” “I’d listen to your daughter. She’s very smart.” Russ grinned at Vivian. She managed a weak smile back and walked towards him. Russ held out his arms and welcomed her. “Will Dad be okay?” Vivian worried her lip.

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“He should be. Oliver didn’t use the magic to drug him like he did Ryerson. He’ll be himself in a couple days.” Roberta went back to the bed. “It’s good that you’re happy. Where is Ive? I expected her to be with you.” “She found her mate and she had somewhere she needed to be.” Vivian didn’t expand on her statement. “That man. That—Peter? He is Greycen’s mate?” Roberta looked to the door. “Yes,” Russ confirmed. “That’s—good.” Russ took that as a good sign. “We have other things to talk about. You and Roger will come with us on the plane. Once we get to your home, I’ll speak with Holt and hopefully your husband will be more aware. We have a bigger issue that your den needs to be aware of. We’ll leave in the morning. I’m going to take Vivian to our room. I’ll help move you and Roger as well. Then Greycen, Peter and I will take care of things here. Is this a shifter friendly place?” “Yes. A cousin owns it.” Roberta nodded. “Good. Let’s go.”

A few hours later Vivian and Russ collapsed on the bed. “I’m ready for home.” “Me too, Vivi. Me too.” “Do you think my mom will come around?” “I think she’s already started to. And by the sounds of it, your dad was always okay with Greycen and everything.” Russ stroked her arm, offering comfort with his touch. “Yeah. I think he just went along with mom. I never really understood their relationship.” Vivian glanced up at him. “You don’t have to. But you can tell your mom really loves your dad. Things will be okay. Do you want to say there for a bit when we drop them off?” “No. I want to go home.” Vivian snuggled into his side. Right where she was meant to be. “Good. I’m worn out.” Russ kissed the top of her head. “I think we need a vacation.” “Shut ourselves in your room for a week?” Vivian giggled. Russ barked out a laugh. “Our room.” He pulled her on top of him.

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Vivian grinned. How did he get so lucky? He shouldn’t have been such a stubborn ass. Think of all the time they could have enjoyed. “I love you Vivian,” he whispered against her lips. “I love you too, mate-mine.” Their kiss was slow. A meeting of lips and tongue with light caresses. Russ poured all of his love into that moment. He was cementing their commitment in a shabby hotel in Greenland, but in his heart—he was in heaven. If perfection had a time and place it would be in this room. Here and now.

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Epilogue

“Now, Vivi.” Russ backed up towards the bathroom, his arms outstretched to stop her. “Don’t you ‘now, Vivi’ me!” Vivian had fire in her eyes. Russ’ cock hardened. He wanted her. Now. He stopped and Vivian looked down, her eyes widened. Here would be good too. Vivian’s eyes twinkled. Russ grinned. “Come here, baby.” He purred. He thought for sure he’d be safe from her. It wasn’t his fault that one of the wolves had played a prank. Well—not totally his fault. She looked good wet. Her breast heaved under her white dress. Okay, maybe it was all his fault. But she was the one who came out of the room in a white sundress looking pretty as a picture. And it was Vivian who said a few days ago that she was immune to the childish games his pack played. It was about time his pack had some downtime. Things had been too serious for way too long. Of course, they still hadn’t heard from the gang who travelled to Africa, but he was sending Peter and Grey off to find them. Soon because those two were driving him nuts. They needed to mate already, but Peter kept insisting he didn’t have a mate. Maybe some alone time would help them. Russ’ first clue that something was up should have been the fact that Vivian had her hands behind her back. His second would have been her eyes. But he was cocky enough to think that was because she wanted to jump his bones. Her breathing had slowed down, but that didn’t distract from her breast. Russ wanted to wrap his lips around her rosy nipples. His thoughts were interrupted when something slimy smacked him in the face. “What the—” Vivian giggled. “That’s what you get!” “When did you have time—never mind.” Russ charged her, the green goo sliding down his face. She tried to run, but there was nowhere to go. Russ tackled her. They both landed on the bed.

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“You guys have too much time on your hands. Water balloons are not fun!” Vivian pouted. “They are from where I’m sitting.” Russ leered at her. “It’s cold, Russ.” “Let me warm you up baby.” Russ rolled them over so she was on top of him and proceeded to remove her dress. “How is taking off my clothes going to help?” Vivian might have protested with her words, but she helped him strip her bare. “If you have to ask—I’m doing something wrong.” Russ nuzzled Vivian’s neck and she shivered. Goose bumps rose up over her body. He flipped them back over so he could press her into the bed. Covering her in his warmth and maybe some of the slime. “Gross, Russ. We should go shower.” “You mean you don’t like the slime? Where the hell did you get it anyway?” “Little Rosie told me I would need it and not to let you boys get away with anything. I totally agree with her. She took it from her brother’s room before they could use it on her.” “I’m going to have to have a talk with her.” Russ growled playfully. Vivian pushed on his chest and slid out from under him and dashed to the bathroom. “Race you!” She said, half way there. It had been a while since he had really had any fun. Now every day was a new adventure with his mate. He took his time and rested in the doorway. Just watching her move. They were supposed to shift tonight with the pack and go on a hunt. He couldn’t wait. But now? Now was the time for him to fuck his mate into exhaustion. He removed his clothes and set them aside. The shower was big. He’d spared no expense when it was made. It had a bench off to the side that would be perfect for what he had in mind. He licked his lips in anticipation. Vivian stepped in and he followed. Crowding her to the bench. “Okay, okay.” She laughed and sat down. The spray misting them both in its warmth. Russ went to his knees in front of her and spread her legs draping them over his shoulder he nuzzled her thigh. Vivian’s hands rested on his hair, kneading his head. It almost distracted him, but not enough to make him stop.

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He kissed his way to her pussy and buried his face. God she smelt so good. Vivian was already wet. Russ nipped at her clit and stroked her, entering her with a finger. Then two. She writhed on the bench. “Russ. Russ.” His name on her lips drove him mad. Russ loved the way it sounded. He sucked her clit and added a third finger. He wanted inside, but he would come too fast that way. He needed to slow down. Russ backed away, letting her legs drop. “Please,” she begged. Russ hugged her to him. Her breast flat against his chest. His lips captured hers in a savage kiss. That wasn’t going to help him slow down. Vivian tried to impale herself on his shaft, but he stood up. She gazed up at him with lust filled eyes. She was playing with her breast. She knew he liked it and she pinched her nipples. Tugging and pulling. “Vivi. God.” He removed her hands so he could caress her breast. He bit at one nipple making her moan. “Oh. Russ. Please. Please. Inside me.” Russ pulled her off the bench and sat down. Vivian understood right away what he wanted. He held his cock for her. Letting her sink down on to him. She groaned when he was fully inside her. Russ gripped the bench and thrust up. Hard. Again and again. She had to hold onto his shoulders or risk being thrown off. He was like a stallion, making her ride him. His dick was encased in the best warmth on the planet. She was so tight. “Not going to last,” he panted. “Russ. Russ.” Vivian tossed her head back, bouncing for all she was worth. Up and down. “Close. So. Close. Please.” He knew just what she needed. That little edge that would make her milk his cock. Russ pressed her body tight to his, not giving her room for much movement. He continued to thrust inside her and nuzzle her neck. He let his canines elongate and bit her. Right in the spot he first used to claim her. “Russ!” Vivian collapsed and he held her even tighter. Jackrabbiting again and again, his hips a blur, Vivian’s inner muscles brought him to climax. She reared back and bit him where his shoulder met his neck. He’d never come so hard in his life. His body shuddered.

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He came down from his high with her murmuring in his ear. Nonsense words, but they soothed him. They rested there a moment before Russ rinsed them off and got out. He filled the Jacuzzi tub that was also a part of his monstrosity of a bathroom. Once it was finished he picked Vivian up and settled her inside the warm water. “A girl could get used to this,” Vivian sighed. “I’d give you this every day if you wanted.” Russ sank down beside her. “No way. I’d become fat and lazy in no time.” Russ laughed. “Are you ready for tonight? It’s the first time you’ve shifted with everyone.” Russ pulled her onto his lap. She curled around him. “I’m a little nervous, but everyone has been great. I’m sure I’ll be fine. I am worried though. About Ive. Grey hasn’t even heard from her and it isn’t like her.” Vivian was tensing up. Russ couldn’t have that. He’d spent all that time getting her nice and lose. He rubbed a hand in small circles on her back. “I’m sure we’ll hear from them soon. And you know that Grey and Peter are leaving for Africa tomorrow.” “I know.” Vivian petted his chest, tangling her fingers in his hair. “But what if something went wrong? They had the Vessel with them—and what if Dmitri comes back?” She tugged on the curls and Russ winched. “You forget, Zareb is strong and so is his mate, Joy. They are both with Djimon and Ive.” “Yeah, but I don’t know them. Not like I know Ive. And she would do something stupid if it meant saving Djimon. She’s dreamt of him almost her whole life. She would tell me stories about her mate.” “I’m glad you had Ive and Grey.” “Me too.” Vivian’s eyes were drifting closed. “Time to get out.” Russ stood and reached for a towel and made quick work of drying them both off. He didn’t bother with robes or clothes. He carried Vivian into bed and put her under the covers. “Sleep, my love.” Russ kissed her temples.

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“You too.” Vivian patted the spot beside her. He couldn’t deny her anything. He crawled into bed. “Love you,” he whispered, thinking her asleep. “Love you too. Hey, Russ?” “Yes, Vivi?” “Are you happy?” “Very. What brought that on?” Russ looked down at her. “It’s just—when I first got here, things were in turmoil and I know you doubted yourself and your position here. I didn’t want to make that worse. And—I don’t think I do. I hope I make you stronger, but I wanted to make sure you were good in your skin. You know?” Russ could not believe the beauty of his mate’s soul. He should have taken these doubts from her days ago. “Vivi.” He wrapped his arms around her, every part of them touching as he spoke directly into her ear. “You are my light. My life. The Ancients knew what they were doing when they bought you to me. I was feeling useless, but you helped me see that I am meant to be in charge. You did that. I love you with every fibre of my being. I am stronger with you by my side. And don’t you ever forget it.” Russ kissed her ear and eased away to look into her eyes. Tears glistened, threatening to fall. “Thank God. You’re my soul as well. The other half I didn’t even know was missing until I saw you in that room full of people. When we first met, you couldn’t’ take your eyes off me. I felt the bond then. I’m so happy you stopped being an idiot.” “Hey!” Russ chuckled. “Sorry, we were getting too mushy. It had to be stopped.” She kissed his chest. This was the life. What he’d been meant for. To be Vivian’s mate. The rest—just details. Ones they could deal with later.

**** The pack gathered on the back lawn. Thanks to Russ she felt relaxed and ready for a run. She smiled over at her mate and took his hand.

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“Ready?” He asked. “Yes.” They undressed and put their clothes in a shed that was set up for the wolves to leave belongings in when they were shifted. It was something Russ had set up just this week. He’d told her he should have done it sooner when Bella first came around. She’d heard the story of her running naked into Max and the snit David had thrown when Bella had on one of Max’s shirts. So everyone had a couple of backups in place. Just in case. Russ and Vivian shifted side by side. She dashed away wanting Russ to chase her and he didn’t disappoint. Tonight was about welcoming her fox to the wolves. Running in harmony. She had no worries. The wind was in her fur and she raced around the land. Never stopping. Vivian had never felt this free at home. Like she belonged. Something always felt off. Now she knew what it was. Family. Russ’ pack was like a family where as her den had been full of acquaintances. This way was much better. They had fun. Russ tackled her and they went rolling through the grass. It was Russ’ turn to lead and she would follow him anywhere. The night was over much too quickly and they all headed home. They’d planned a big feast when they got back. An official welcome. Not like the slapped together meal at the safe house. Home. While they were dressing Bella came over to them. She was fully clothed and Vivian was struggling into her skirt. “Russ, I’m so sorry—” The other woman looked distressed. Vivian hurried with the rest of her clothes. “Bella. What is it? A vision?” Russ was worried. Vivian could tell by his body language and the tone of his voice. He was expecting the worse. Bella glanced over at her and frowned. “Yes.” Bella rubbed her forehead. “Tell me, Bella,” Russ demanded. “Something bad is going to happen.” “Why is it always doom and gloom with you? Life with David that bad?” Max had joined them along with David and Valerie. “Don’t joke, Max. It wasn’t pretty. The vision caused her to shift back.” David sheltered his mate with his body.

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“Aw, man. Me and my big mouth. Sorry.” “It’s okay, Max.” Bella gave him a weak grin. “It’s Joy,” Bella whispered. Valerie stiffened beside her, but waited, Max now comforting her. “Just tell us, Bella,” Russ coaxed. “She’s hurt. Bad. And they’ve been separated. Ive and Djimon are—gone.” “What do you mean? Russ? What does she mean, gone?” Vivian’s voice rose. No. Not Ive. They had to tell Grey. “I don’t know. It isn’t clear, Vivian. I’m not saying they are dead. I don’t get that feeling, but they’ve disappeared. And when they left, something attacked Zareb and Joy. That’s all I’ve got. I’m sorry. I don’t know—” “It’s okay, Bella. Why don’t you go lay down. I’ll talk to Grey and Peter. They can leave now. I don’t suppose you have a time frame for any of this do you? Are we already too late?” “You know the Ancients aren’t that specific, but they have never given me a vision when it was too late to do something about it. So we have to hope.” Bella and David left the grounds and walked to their new house they’d moved into in the last couple of weeks. Max and Valerie didn’t stick around either, leaving Vivian and Russ. The others had dispersed as well. “What’s up guys?” Grey strolled over to them. “You need to find Peter and the two of you have to leave now. Bella had a vision and things are messed up in Africa.” Russ tried to put it as gently as he could. “Ive?” Grey looked between Vivian and Russ. “We don’t really know. Bella just said she was—gone. But not dead. I have no idea what that means.” Vivian reached for his hand. “What’s wrong?” Peter appeared beside them. “I felt—grief. Something. What is it?” “Ive.” Grey said only his sister’s name. “Let’s go.” Peter asked no questions. He guided Grey inside. “Stay safe you two and report back. While you pack, I’ll get together some coordinates for you. Zareb left them with me. Just in case.” They watched the two men leave. “This isn’t good, is it Russ?” Vivian hid her face in his chest.

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Why, she had just a little taste of happiness and should have known something would bring her down. Ive had to be okay. She wouldn’t think otherwise. Grey would find her. “I don’t know, Vivi. The Ancients have helped us in the past. I don’t think they would share with Bella if we couldn’t do anything.” Russ kissed her on the top of the head. “Let’s go get things ready for the guys and then eat.” “I’m not hungry.” Vivian couldn’t think of food at a time like this. “You’re going to need it, sweetheart. The next few days could be rough. We both know it. Let’s not borrow trouble yet.” “Okay. I can do that.” “Thank you. I love you.” “I love you too, Russ.” “Put on your alpha face. We have to be strong for our pack.” Vivian managed a smile. Their pack. And it was. She couldn’t think the worse. Vivian would put positive vibes out into the universe and hope for the quick return of her friend. Until then, she would lead her pack with her mate by her side. She put her ‘alpha face’ on and went in to join her family. They’d help each other through anything that came to pass, because that is what a pack did. Russ held out his hand and she took it. Ready to face whatever fate brought her way. Having faith that Russ would catch her if she fell and she would do the same for him. Family. Home. Two words she would hold dear to her heart. And she was starting to feel hungry. Vivian smiled. Things would be okay. She knew it in her heart of hearts. Ive would come home and her pack would be complete. “Hey, guys. Come eat. Food’s getting cold,” someone shouted from the kitchen. Vivian wasn’t sure who it was. “Go on, Vivi. I’ll be right in.” Russ took her lips in a gentle kiss. Vivian turned to the dining room, her pack welcoming her as if she’d been there all along. She closed her eyes and gave a small prayer to the Ancients. Bring my family home safe. All of them, please. “Hey, you coming in?” Everett was by her side. “Of course. Did you save me a seat?” Vivian teased.

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“You’re at the head of the table. You’re seat is safe. Where’s Peter?” “He had to get ready to leave.” “Okay. I’ll go say goodbye. You good?” Everett took her hands in his. His concern overwhelmed her. “Yes. I am. Thank you.” Everett bared his throat, waiting for the kiss she liked to bestow on the pack. She brushed her lips on his neck and watched him leave. Acceptance was a beautiful thing. It made Vivian think there really was justice in this crazy world.

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About the Author Jambrea wanted to be the youngest romance author published, but life impeded the dreams. She put her writing aside and went to college briefly, then enlisted in the Air Force. After serving in the military, she returned home to Indiana to start her family. A few years later, she discovered yahoo groups and book reviews. There was no turning back. She was bit by the writing bug. She enjoys spending time with her son when not writing and loves to receive reader feedback. She’s addicted to the internet so feel free to email her anytime.

Email: [email protected] Jambrea loves to hear from readers. You can find her contact information, website and author biography at http://www.total-e-bound.com.

Also by Jambrea Jo Jones Tell Me Now Wishing Star Love by Design Dark Encounters: Dominate Me Alliance: Retribution Alliance: Salvation Seeds of Dawn: Secrets Saddle Up N Ride: A Fistful of Emmett Stealing My Heart: Stealing Michael Over the Moon: Dreams

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