Knox

Zeus's Pack 3

Knox Sammy Olson was kicked out of his own home by his boyfriend and left to fend for himself. He finds work at Theo's Bar and Grill, but what he isn’t prepared for is the attention he’s getting from two very handsome men. Trevor Amite left his coven behind when the leader challenged him. It was better than winning and becoming the new leader, something he didn’t want. While Knox fights the demons that haunt his sleep, he discovers both of his mates—and one of them is a vampire. Can he come to terms with the idea of having a bloodsucker for a mate, or will he take Sammy and walk away from what fate has decided to give him? And can Knox keep the coven Trevor left behind from killing the man he isn’t even sure he wants? Genre: Alternative (M/M or F/F), Ménage a Trois/Quatre, Vampires/Werewolves Length: 31,201 words

KNOX Zeus’s Pack 3

Lynn Hagen

MENAGE EVERLASTING MANLOVE

Siren Publishing, Inc. www.SirenPublishing.com

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A SIREN PUBLISHING BOOK IMPRINT: Ménage Everlasting ManLove

KNOX Copyright © 2011 by Lynn Hagen E-book ISBN: 1-61034-558-4 First E-book Publication: August 2011 Cover design by Jinger Heaston All art and logo copyright © 2011 by Siren Publishing, Inc. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED: This literary work may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, including electronic or photographic reproduction, in whole or in part, without express written permission. All characters and events in this book are fictitious. Any resemblance to actual persons living or dead is strictly coincidental.

PUBLISHER Siren Publishing, Inc. www.SirenPublishing.com

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

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

KNOX Zeus’s Pack 3 LYNN HAGEN Copyright © 2011

Chapter One Trevor drove down Route 14, the music bumping his favorite rap song as he threw his left hand in the air, rapping along with Pistol Grip Pump. Trevor pulled into the podunk town and palmed the wheel, turning into the parking spot behind some tavern called Theo’s Bar and Grill. He wasn’t sure where he was. The sign he had passed a mile back said he was entering Pride Pack Valley. Trevor shut his car off, and the music died. It was well after ten at night, prime time for him in the darkness because he was hungry as fuck and needed to eat. He crept behind the Dumpster, seeing the back door open to the tavern, only a thin screen door in the way, but he was able to see inside. The prime piece of meat washing dishes was perfect. He cleared his throat and whimpered loud enough to get his meal’s attention. The dishwasher stopped what he was doing and came to the screen door, looking out into the back parking lot. Trevor whined again, imitating a hurt animal. His food pushed the door open and he walked out. Trevor raced to the door with unbelievable speed, grabbing the man and pulling him to the side of the Dumpster. This was too easy.

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He sank his fangs into flesh, drinking heavily as the heady nectar began to ease the incredible pain in his stomach. “Please,” the man cried. “Don’t hurt me.” Trevor’s hunger began to ebb away. His stomach finally stopped hurting as he eased off of the man. He licked the wound closed and was mentally knocked on his ass when the sweetest aroma permeated his lungs. “Mine!” “Please, I don’t have any money, but I could feed you.” The small man whined, curling around Trevor’s arm into a ball. Trevor stood there blinking, trying desperately to clear his mind. There was no fucking way this human was his mate. His hand instinctively began to soothe the smaller man’s back, shushing him as he pulled him close to his chest. “I’m not going to hurt you.” “Y–You’re not?” “No, baby, I was just hungry. I’m sorry for scaring you.” Trevor nuzzled his mate’s hair, inhaling his intoxicating scent. “What’s your name, darling?” “Sammy.” Trevor moved back beside the Dumpster when a large man came to the screen door, opening it and looking around. “Sammy, you out here?” He clamped a hand over his mate’s mouth, stopping him from calling out. Sammy nuzzled into Trevor’s hand, and he removed it, petting his mate’s hair to keep him calm. “Sammy!” the large man shouted again. When his mate didn’t answer, the man cursed and almost ripped the door from the hinges as he stormed inside. Trevor knew he had only moments before reinforcements came looking for Sammy. “Come with me, little darling.” “I can’t. I have to work, or I won’t get paid,” Sammy said in a panic. “I have money. You don’t need to work.”

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“But I promised Jesse and Theo I would do it.” His little man struggled to free himself. “Please.” Trevor studied him for a moment and then nodded, releasing him. “Where do you live?” His mate pointed above the tavern to a set of darkened windows. “Up there.” “Come back out here when the place closes.” “Okay.” “Promise me, little darling.” “I promise.” Sammy grinned at him and then ran back into the tavern, a loud voice asking him where he had taken off to. Trevor wanted to claw the man’s throat out for raising his voice to his mate, but he climbed back into his car instead and settled back. A few hours later the back door opened, and Sammy stuck his head out, his eyes darting around as he looked for Trevor. Trevor smiled. His mate was adorable. He reminded him of a mouse with his squeaky little voice and short stature. He opened his car door, the interior light illuminating him. Sammy grinned widely when Trevor stepped out and walked over to him. “Can I come up?” “But I don’t know you.” Sammy slid out of the back door and stood against the brick wall, his hands twisting together in front of him. Trevor reached out and stilled his hands. “My name is Trevor, and I won’t harm you, I promise, little darling.” His mate’s bottom lip poked out. “I’m not a little darling. I’m a grown man.” Trevor chuckled at Sammy’s peeved statement. “I’m sure you are, little darling.” “Then why do you keep calling me that?” the man asked irritably. Trevor shrugged, leaning against the wall next to him. “Because you’re so short.” He shoved his hands in his pockets. The need to touch his mate was strong, and Sammy was too skittish right now. He

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wasn’t sure what happened to the trusting man from earlier, but Trevor was glad Sammy was on guard. He didn’t want his mate following blindly behind anyone, not even him. Sammy glared at him. “You’re mean,” he said as he yanked the door open. Trevor reached out to stop him, gently seizing his wrist. “I wasn’t trying to be.” “I still don’t know you, so you can’t come upstairs. It’s late, good night.” His mate pulled his hand free and yanked the door open, stomping through it. Trevor let him go. He grinned widely. Sammy had fire. He liked that. No matter if the little rebel went inside, Trevor would keep coming back until his mate trusted him. He had waited too long to find the little bugger to let him just walk away. **** Sammy raced around collecting the dishes from the tables. It was Friday night and busy as heck. He wasn’t complaining, though. After being kicked out of his own home and left with no money, he was grateful for the job. He squeaked when yet another hand reached behind him and pinched his bottom. Sammy hurried to clear the table, wanting to get away from the wandering hand. Men did that a lot here—and even some women had as well. He didn’t like it, and it was unwelcomed. But what could he do? They were paying customers, and he was terrified of losing his job if he complained, so he kept his mouth shut and endured it. Sammy ran the bin of dirty dishes to the kitchen and dumped them into the hot water. Once he had them cleaned and put away, he was off again to clear more tables and deal with more lobster claws pinching at his backside. By the time his break came, his legs were sore from running and his bottom was sore from being pinched. No one should have to deal

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with unwanted touching, and it made Sammy feel helpless because there wasn’t a thing he could do about it. He sat at the small table Theo had placed in the kitchen for him to use on his breaks and nibbled on his chicken wings. The one good thing about working here was that he was able to eat for free. That was a huge benefit with the budget he had to work with. Sammy tossed his dinner scraps into the trash and placed the dish in the sink. Steeling himself, he went back to work. He rushed over to the booths and cleared away the dirty dishes and then wiped down the table while customers waited to be seated. On his way back to the kitchen with a full pan, he tripped, dropping the dishes and sprawling out on the floor. The need to cry out his frustration was close, real close, but he did his best to keep the waterworks at bay. Sammy swallowed around the lump in his throat and began to clean up his mess, cursing mentally about the pay that would be deducted to replace the dishes he broke. “Do you need help?” Sammy glanced up, and his vision was morphed into a narrow tunnel. The only other inhabitant in his vision besides himself was this rather large man who had the voice of a deep river running through his brain. It was strong, yet soothing to hear. He stared at the stranger’s eyes that sparkled like ice under a brilliant sun and a smile that made his heart beat out of control like an avalanche racing down a mountainside. No longer was he in Theo’s Bar and Grill but lying in his own peaceful meadow of wishful thinking. “Are you all right?” “No.” The truth slipped out before Sammy had a chance to stop it. A man of this significance would never care to hear what his life was like. He dropped his eyes, clearing the shattered plates up before a customer could hurt themselves on it. “Let me help you.”

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“No.” He wanted the man to go away and not stoop there reminding him of what he could never have. “I can manage. It’s my job.” The lump in his throat was back, and Sammy once again cursed it. “Just because it’s your job doesn’t mean you couldn’t use some help.” Large hands began to clear away the glass. Sammy stared at them hypnotically, dreaming of what they would feel like running over his skin or holding him tenderly. Sammy’s frustrations mounted, and a tear slipped out, and then another. He jumped up and ran to the kitchen, mortified that he had allowed himself to break down in front of such a handsome man. It wasn’t the stranger’s fault that Sammy was turning into a basket case and that his life felt like he was going nowhere fast with a bruised behind to lead the way. His palms hit the screen door, and Sammy fled to the side of the Dumpster, sitting on the ground and wrapping his arms around his knees. He couldn’t get the tears to stop, and that frustrated him even more, which in turn made him cry more. It was a catch twenty-two that Sammy desperately wanted to get out of. “Hey, little darling, what’s wrong?” Sammy’s breath hitched. He didn’t need this right now. He scrambled to his feet and ran around the building onto Trenton Street, unsure of where he was running to, and at this point, his mind ceased caring. He cried out when a strong arm grabbed him around the waist and lifted him off of his feet. Not again. “Calm down.” It was the voice from inside the restaurant. Sammy cried even harder. All the pent-up feelings he had been holding inside came rushing out. His broken relationship, his destitution, his sexual harassment, and his tired feet had built up inside of him until the volcano erupted and tears flowed in a plethora of heartache. “Shush, you tell ole Knox what’s troubling you.”

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Sammy shook his head, not willing to burden the stranger with his problems. “I want to go home,” he sobbed. “Tell me where it is and I’ll take you.” Sammy pointed to the windows above the tavern. It wasn’t the place he had been referring to, but his ex-boyfriend, Connolly, would never take him back, so he had to settle for the apartment. Sammy held his hands over his eyes as Knox carried him inside and asked Theo how to get up there. “Is he okay?” “Yeah, just a bit rattled.” Sammy felt Knox ascending the steps, carrying him across the threshold, and then sitting on his lumpy couch. A large hand soothed his back, still shushing him. “What’s your name?” “S–Sammy.” He sniffled and wiped his nose on his sleeve. “Tell me what’s wrong, Sammy.” Sammy gathered the courage and looked up into Knox’s beautiful eyes once more. He was stunned to find so much concern in them. Why would someone like Knox care about him? “I guess I hate to see dishes break.” The chuckle was like biting into chocolate, an instant rush, so gratifying. Sammy closed his eyes and listened as he enjoyed it. “Want to try again?” “No.” Knox reached down and pulled the hem of Sammy’s shirt out of his hands before he could desecrate it. He felt foolish now that he had finished crying his eyes out. “I’m okay now, so can I go back to work?” “Theo will let you have the rest of the night off if you need it.” The hand started stroking Sammy’s back again, but he wouldn’t allow it to hypnotize him. Climbing down, he got off of Knox’s lap and headed for his door. “Really, I’m fine.”

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Knox nodded and followed him out, walking down the steps behind him. Sammy walked out into the tavern and immediately ran to the kitchen, trying his best to hide from his shame. “There you are.” He came to a halt when he saw Trevor standing just inside the screen door. Sammy groaned at all the attention suddenly on him. “I’m fine.” He waved Trevor away and began to tackle the dishes. “Want to tell me who made you cry?” Sammy didn’t like Trevor’s tone. It sounded a little too menacing. “No one, I made myself cry.” “Liar.” Trevor’s lip pulled back into a smile, and Sammy was reminded of the teeth that had bitten him. “Go away, I have to work.” He scrubbed his frustrations out on the pan in his hand, wishing Trevor would go away and wishing he would stay. Sammy wondered if the pressure was finally getting to him. He finished his dirty dishes and grabbed the pan, going back out into the restaurant. As he cleared away a table, Knox sidled up next to him. “How are you feeling?” Sammy growled in frustration. Why were these two bothering him? He wasn’t any prize to look at. Connolly had made that very clear. You’re lucky to have me wanting you. If it wasn’t for me, no one would want your little scrawny ass. “What do you want?” he asked between clenched teeth. Were these two playing tag team to see how much they could rattle him? What was their goal? Did their agenda include Sammy giving up some tail and then the two laughing at him afterward for being such a dumb-ass for trusting them? “Just to make sure you’re okay.” Knox ran his hand over Sammy’s head, but he pulled away, not wanting the attention if their ultimate goal was to use him and then humiliate.

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He stomped back into the kitchen, Trevor right at his side as soon as he pushed through the doors. Sammy was slowly cracking. He slammed the pan down and spun on Trevor. “Go the hell away!” Even in his anger, Sammy could see the hurt look in the guy’s eyes. That wasn’t his intention. All he wanted was some breathing room. “I’m sorry.” Trevor shrugged. “I’m used to it.” “You shouldn’t be, and I shouldn’t have taken it out on you.” He picked the pan up and dumped the dishes into the hot water, feeling like a real heel. “I’m not trying to be a bother.” Sammy sighed and turned around. “I know. It’s just been a rough night. Are you hungry? I could feed you.” Sammy saw the humor in the man’s eyes. “I’m not hungry, but thanks for asking.” Trevor smiled at Sammy, and he felt all warm and fuzzy inside. He quickly forgot about the teeth with a sexy smile like that. All Sammy saw was someone wanting acceptance. That’s how he perceived it anyway, and that’s how Sammy felt, too. “I have to go back out there. Will you stay?” The hurt looked vanished as Trevor stood up straight. “Not going anywhere, little darling.” Sammy blushed at the endearment and the way Trevor was looking at him. He ran back out into the dining area. Knox was over at the bar talking to Theo but winked at Sammy when he spotted him. Sammy quickly turned his head and cleared another table. “Excuse me, could you take this glass for me?” Sammy walked over to the next table and took the empty glass from the man’s hands. As he turned, fingers pinched his butt. Sammy watched in horror as Knox growled and stormed across the room like a predator after its prey. He backed away, unsure what was about to happen. Theo was right behind Knox, his face twisted in anger.

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Did they think he was flirting with the customers? Was he about to lose his job? Sammy stood there frozen, unable to move or think as Knox pulled the guy from the booth and collared him. “Do you have a problem keeping your hands to yourself?” “N–No.” “Get the fuck out,” Theo snapped at the man. Knox pushed the guy toward the door, and Sammy was left standing there stunned. Theo walked back to him, and his eyes became soft. Okay, this wasn’t going exactly the way he thought it would. “Does that happen often?” Theo asked gently. Sammy didn’t want to answer him. What if he told the truth and Theo fired him for being too much of a headache to deal with? “Answer me, Sammy.” He nodded, unable to find his voice. He glanced over to Knox, who looked really mad. “I want you to tell me or Theo the next time that happens,” Knox said. “But why?” “Because you shouldn’t be dealing with that at work, or anywhere else for that matter,” Theo explained. “I wish you would have brought this to my attention when it happened the first time.” Sammy shifted from foot to foot, not sure what to say. He had thought for sure he would be fired. Knox stepped closer, and Sammy felt as though he couldn’t breathe. The man’s presence was overwhelming. He wanted to crawl into the man’s arms because they looked so safe and warm. He shouldn’t be thinking of that. There was no chance in hell this man wanted him in that way. Sammy picked up his dishpan. “Thank you for helping me.” He turned on his heel and made a beeline for the kitchen. “Your pan is empty, but you’ve been gone for twenty minutes,” Trevor said when Sammy came back into the kitchen. Sammy groaned to himself. Was this night ever going to end?

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“I had other things to do,” Sammy stated. “Besides, the cook should be coming back soon, and you shouldn’t be in here.” Why were his emotions flip-flopping around with Trevor? “I can wait outside. Will you come out when your shift is over?” Sammy bit his lip, unsure of what to say. He felt an attraction toward Trevor, but he also had one toward Knox. Trevor seemed to be the more obtainable one. “Okay.” “Sammy?” Sammy turned to see Knox standing just inside the kitchen door. Trevor hissed and pulled Sammy behind him. “Fucking vampire.” Knox leapt across the space, grabbing Trevor and pushing him to the floor. “No!” Sammy pushed Knox back, his hands pressed against Knox’s hard and muscular chest. “Don’t hurt him.” “Stay back, Sammy,” Knox ordered him. “He’s a filthy vampire.” Sammy pummeled his fist against Knox’s chest. “Stay away from him.” Knox bent his knees, leaning closer to Trevor, glaring at the undead. “No.” Knox backed up as his eyes grew wide, Sammy still pushing him back. “It can’t be,” Knox whispered. Trevor glared up at Knox, his lips pulled back in an irritated twist. “I’m not too happy about this either, mate.”

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Chapter Two Knox looked at the vampire lying on the floor. He had an urge to pick him up and hold him. To make sure he wasn’t harmed. Hell no. This couldn’t be happening. He had a vampire for a mate? Knox took a step back, staring at the undead with repulsion and, at the same time, want. He couldn’t deal with this right now. The creature lay on the floor glaring at him, but Knox could see the hurt in his eyes. His emotions were conflicting as he was torn between walking away and pulling the vampire into his arms. Shit. “Stay away from Sammy.” Knox spun around, grabbing his smaller mate’s wrist, and nearly tore the door open as he went back into the dining area. He had to think. He needed fresh air. Knox walked past the bar and headed for the front door when Sammy yanked his hand away. “That was just plain old mean.” His mate spun around and stomped back toward the kitchen. “Sammy, don’t.” He wasn’t sure what the vampire would do to his small mate, and Knox wasn’t going to take any chances. He grabbed Sammy’s wrist again, pulling him to a halt. “Let go. I have to check on Trevor. That was really mean what you did, and he has feelings, too.” Sammy yanked his hand away and continued walking. Knox balled his hands into fists and clenched his jaw. He walked after Sammy to the kitchen. Knox palmed the door and pushed it open, but only Sammy stood there.

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Trevor was gone. “Now look what you’ve done. He probably won’t come back.” Sammy narrowed his eyes as he pointed an accusing finger up at Knox. “I hope you’re happy, mister.” Knox wasn’t. As much as he wanted to walk away with just Sammy, a yearning began inside of him for Trevor. God, he was so fucked up. Knox was aware that he could possibly have two mates. Their Alpha Zeus and one of the soldiers, Avanti, each already had a pair. But why did one of his have to be a vampire? “Where did he come from?” he asked Sammy. “I don’t know. He just showed up here. But he seems really nice, and you shouldn’t have done that.” Sammy sighed, and his shoulders slumped. “I guess it doesn’t matter now, since you scared him off.” “I didn’t mean to, but he’s a vampire.” Knox stated the obvious. “And that makes it okay for you to treat him like that?” He was a little thrown off by Sammy’s acceptance. “Doesn’t it scare you?” “I’ll admit, it did when he bit me—” “He what!” Knox reached out to Sammy’s shirt and jerked it aside. Two little reddened pinpricks were visible. It almost looked like it was healing. “I’ll kill him.” Sammy batted his hand away. “That’s exactly what I’m talking about. He’s been nothing but nice to me since. How can I fear a nice man?” “Very easily.” “Maybe for you it is.” Sammy’s gaze cast downward. “If you put half the effort into making friends with him as you did pushing him, he may not have left.” Knox couldn’t begin to explain to the human the dangers Trevor posed. How could he make his mate see that Trevor was one of the creatures the grey wolves had been fighting against? Somehow he knew that even if he explained the whole wolf-vampire-rogue thing that Sammy would still want him to be friends with Trevor.

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Friends wasn’t the only thing fate had planned. He wondered if Sammy would be so receptive if he found that out. Knox rubbed the back of his neck, unsure how he should handle this situation. “I’ll try harder next time.” “To be friends or to knock him down?” Sammy looked up at him skeptically. “Both?” Sammy narrowed his eyes as he took a step back, looking for all the world like he wanted to kick Knox’s ass. “Not funny.” Knox knew it wasn’t, but he was trying to make Sammy smile. “You know, I was tricked into hurting a friend of mine, and it’s not a nice feeling. To do it purposely is even worse,” Sammy confessed. Knox knew that Sammy had been a pawn in Dirk Alvisio’s plan to kidnap his nephew, Craig, and kill him. He had heard how Sammy was used to lure Jesse into the bathroom by gunpoint and then both of them were kidnapped. Now he was feeling like a real heel. But how was he supposed to look at Trevor like a human being? He was a vampire for fuck’s sake. “Okay, next time I won’t be so quick to temper,” Knox promised. “Thank you.” Sammy smiled this time, and Knox felt like a million dollars. “It’s getting late, and I need to clear the rest of the tables.” “I can help.” Knox scented a small amount of arousal, and it was such a fucking turn-on. He cleared his throat and took a step back. His erection would show through his jeans, and right now Sammy was not happy with him. Maybe turned on, but the look on his face told Knox to back off. “No, it’s my job.” Sammy grabbed the dishpan and headed to the kitchen door. A mixture of annoyance and lust wafted past Knox’s nose. He followed that scent, right out into the dining area. “It’s no problem.”

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“No, now go on.” Sammy turned his back, and Knox knew when he was being dismissed. He walked over to the bar, watching Sammy as he cleared the tables. Knox’s eyes perused his mate’s body, appreciating every fine line. “You’re about to drown me in lust if you don’t stop watching him.” Theo waved a hand in front of his face, sliding a drink to Knox. “He’s my mate.” Knox picked the glass up and took a swallow while watching Sammy wipe down tables. “No shit.” Theo sounded surprised. “He’s a nice guy, couldn’t ask for a better mate.” Knox agreed. Now if he could only figure out what to do about his vampire mate. **** Trevor sat back in his car, chewing on his thumbnail. He wondered if Sammy was still going to come out after what happened in the kitchen. The scent had hit him while he was lying on the floor. The large man was his mate. It was screwing with Trevor’s head big-time. And to make matters worse, the large man was a shifter. How the hell did he end up with a human and a wolf? The human he could deal with. He was actually proud his mate was human after the way his coven had treated him. Trevor didn’t want a vampire for a mate. But a shifter? He wasn’t too sure how happy he was about that, considering the dog made it clear he didn’t want any part of Trevor. That was fine by him. Trevor was used to rejection. One more wasn’t any sweat off of his back. His eyes darted over to the screen door when it squeaked open. A small grin pulled at his mouth when he saw Sammy once again peek his head out. Trevor reached up and clicked on the dome light.

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“Trevor?” “Over here, little darling.” He watched Sammy hurry over to his car. “I didn’t think you would come.” “Why?” Trevor leaned out of his window. “I thought maybe the shifter would have poisoned your brain.” “What’s a shifter?” Sammy tilted his head and looked at Trevor curiously. “Get in, I’ll explain.” Trevor reached across the seat and pushed the passenger-side car door open. Sammy ran around and climbed in. “You’re not gonna bite me, are you?” Trevor felt shame wash over him. “No, I’m not going to hurt you.” Sammy nodded and buckled his seat belt. “Where to?” Trevor started the car and pulled out of the lot from behind the tavern. “Anywhere you want to go.” “How about a nice drive? It doesn’t matter where. It just feels good to get out.” Trevor knew that feeling. He turned left onto Trenton and then right onto Route 14. A nice country drive should make Sammy happy. “So, did you grow up here?” Sammy shook his head as he stared out of the window. “No, I came here after my boyfriend kicked me out.” “His loss.” Trevor had to take a moment to control the anger that welled up in him. For anyone to mistreat this nice guy was cruel, and when the guy turned out to be his mate? It was downright fucked up. Trevor wanted to go find the guy and teach him a lesson. “I had enough money to make it here, and then the sheriff and his deputy got me the apartment and the job at Theo’s.” “That was real nice of them.” He was glad to hear not everyone in town was an ass. Trevor glanced over when he felt a breeze in the car. Sammy had let the window down and stuck his head out, the wind

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blowing his hair around. He was amazed at the serene look on the guy’s face as Sammy enjoyed the fresh air. Trevor laughed. It must be nice to take such pleasure in the small things. It had been too long since he had done that. He reached over and tapped Sammy’s arm. “Be careful.” Sammy leaned back. “It felt good to do that.” He twisted around and stared up at Trevor. “Now tell me what a shifter is.” Trevor rested his left arm on the door, running his finger over his chin. “You know I’m a vampire, right?” Sammy nodded. “I figured that one out.” Trevor glanced sideways, looking over at his mate. “I’m real sorry about that. I didn’t hurt you, did I?” “No, just scared me.” Trevor nodded. “A shifter is someone who can change between human and animal.” “Holy…wow.” He chuckled. The look on Sammy’s face was priceless. His eyes were wide, and his mouth hung open. “Knox is a wolf shifter.” “I’m not sure why, but I’m having a little more trouble with that fact than you being a vampire.” “It’s the whole changing into a wolf thing.” Trevor kept his eyes on the road, but he could see Sammy’s head nodding. “Yeah, that’s it.” His mate turned to look back out of the window. “So, is he the only one?” “Shifter?” Trevor asked. “Yeah, but I meant, here, in town.” Trevor could hear the confusion in his voice. He wanted to reach out and pull Sammy into his arms and tell him the world was still the way he had always seen it, only it was expanded now. He shook his head as he stared ahead. “No.” Trevor pulled over to the soft shoulder, cutting the engine. Sammy still stared out of the window, as if he were searching for something. “Are you okay?”

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“No.” His voice sounded distant. “Sammy, look at me.” His mate slowly turned his head. Trevor’s breath caught at the cheerless look in his eyes. It didn’t match his personality one bit. It bugged Trevor because he always had an attention for detail. How had he missed that? Trevor reached over and rubbed his hand up and down Sammy’s arm. “It’s a lot to take in, I know.” “It’s not only that.” Sammy dropped his eyes. “What?” “It’s too embarrassing.” Trevor grinned. “You can tell me.” Sammy’s hands clenched in his lap. “I like you both.” A blush fanned across his mate’s face. Trevor had figured out that all three were mates. Sammy was supposed to want Knox. Too bad Knox didn’t want Trevor. The man was stunning. “Don’t be embarrassed. You’re our mate. It’s okay to want us both.” “What’s a mate?” Sammy looked up then, his brows pulled together. Was Trevor going to be the one to explain it all to him? It looked that way. Knox should be sitting here doing some of it, too. It was only fair. He didn’t want Sammy looking at him like the bad guy. “Mates are people who fate has matched together. Fate has decided the three of us would be perfect for each other.” “Then why did Knox act that way?” Trevor turned away. It had been obvious in the kitchen. “Because I’m a vampire.” “So, he’s a wolf. If you ask me, that’s the pot calling the kettle black.” Trevor agreed with the human. ****

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Sammy was having a hard time processing all this information. Both of them were his? How? He glanced over at the man sitting next to him. Trevor was very handsome. The vampire was really tall and very masculine in features, resembling a runway model in Sammy’s opinion. His dark eyes and hair made Sammy want to reach over and run his hands through the straight, dark strands. And Knox? He was just as tall, but bulkier, with a lot of muscles. The wolf was good-looking as well. His black hair and hazel eyes made Sammy want to pant and beg for attention. And here he sat, little ole Sammy, plain as a bagel. It was a wonder either of them wanted to be bothered with him. Connolly hadn’t, and he wasn’t anywhere near as good-looking as these two. Why would fate think he would be good with these two? He felt like a booby prize in the bottom of a Cracker Jack box. “Come on, little darling, let’s finish our drive.” Trevor smiled at him, and Sammy felt like he was back in his own personal meadow. “Let’s leave all this stuff behind and have some fun.” Sammy beamed at him. “Let’s have some fun.” Trevor was truly a nice person. Why couldn’t Knox give him a chance? The vampire turned the music on, and Sammy bounced around to the rap music. He felt alive and carefree for the first time in a very long time. Trevor threw his head back and laughed when he saw Sammy dancing. He couldn’t help but laugh. It was contagious. Trevor drove down back roads and around farms for what felt like hours, Sammy loving every minute of it. “Time to get you home.” Trevor was driving back down Route 14 and heading for town. Sammy was a little disappointed their time was up. He was having such a good time. “Stop pouting.” Trevor smiled as he turned onto Trenton Street. “We can go again tomorrow night if you’d like.” “Am I being that obvious?” “Yes, little darling. Your bottom lip is hanging to the floor.”

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Sammy sucked said lip in, not wanting to come off unappreciative. It had been a wonderful night—except for the start of it with Knox pushing Trevor down—and he didn’t want to spoil the cheery atmosphere. The vampire pulled around to the back entrance and cut the engine. Sammy felt a little awkward. Was he supposed to give Trevor a kiss of thank you and good night? He wanted to. Still not sure about all the stuff that was laid at his feet or how Trevor felt about him, Sammy unbuckled his seatbelt and climbed out of the car. Trevor had gotten out on his side and walked Sammy to the door. “I had a nice time.” Sammy was a nervous wreck. Were you supposed to feel like throwing up when you liked someone? “Me, too.” He reached for the door when Trevor bent down and kissed him. He was extremely nervous now but opened for Trevor’s probing tongue. The vampire wrapped his arms around Sammy and pulled him close, kissing him like nobody’s business. His toes were even curling in. It was Trevor who broke the kiss. “Sweet dreams, little darling.” His fingers traced down the side of Sammy’s face, and he leaned into them. “Uh-huh.” He reached for the door handle and missed the first two times. Trevor chuckled and opened it for him. Sammy reached into his pocket and pulled his keys out, unlocking the door and looking back at Trevor. “Tonight?” “Tonight, little darling.” Sammy nodded and went inside. He was floating on cloud nine. His feet were light as they carried him upstairs and to his apartment. He ran through the door and fell on his bed, grabbing a pillow to his chest as he grinned from ear to ear. “Oh god, look at me. I’m grinning like the biggest fool.” He giggled. Sammy sighed and turned over, thinking about the dark and mysterious vampire and how utterly handsome he was.

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**** Trevor watched the light come on in Sammy’s apartment. He wanted to go up there and make sure it was safe and secure. Hell, who was he kidding? He wanted to go up there and pick up where they left off. It had taken a great amount of control for him to step back and let his mate go inside. But he was being a gentleman about this. Trevor had to prove to his mates he wasn’t the savage they thought him to be. Or at least to Knox. “Did you claim him?” Trevor closed his eyes, a tight grin pulling his mouth back at Knox’s voice. “No.” “Why not? I would have thought you would jump at the opportunity.” Trevor turned around, finding Knox leaning against the hood of his car. The shifter was devastatingly gorgeous, but he kept that to himself. “Because I’m not an animal.” “What’s that supposed to mean?” Knox stood straight. “You know, just because fate thought we should be together doesn’t mean I agree.” “Then I guess we’re on the same page,” Trevor lied. “Now if you don’t mind, I have a sun to beat home.” “By all means.” Knox stepped aside. They stood there staring at each other like a Mexican standoff. Trevor was the first to move, grabbing the handle of the car door and opening it. “You know, Sammy is a nice guy. The least we could do is try to get along for him,” Trevor said as he got into his car, not waiting to hear Knox’s answer. He probably wouldn’t like it anyway. The shifter watched him drive away, his eyes narrowed on Trevor as he passed him.

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Trevor stopped, rolled his window down, and stared up at Knox. “You may not like me, but I can see the want in your eyes. Just to let you know, it wouldn’t be your neck I would want to suck.” He saw Knox’s nostrils flare as he rolled his window up. Unsure if it was from lust or anger, teasing Knox had felt good, but it may not have been a smart move. Trevor couldn’t help it, though. The jackass deserved it. “Fuck,” Trevor bit out once back on the street. “Just my luck to be mated to a damn dog.” As much as he bitched and moaned, Trevor wasn’t going to lie to himself. He wanted Knox. The challenge was a turn-on.

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Chapter Three Knox sat and listened to Zeus talk about the design and build of their new home. He, like the other soldiers, was glad this place would be destroyed. It held too many memories of Jackson’s time as Alpha and the sadistic way he led. He still had nightmares and woke up in a sweat on occasion. The new home would be a welcome haven. They were bringing in a construction crew today. The plans were to have it built within six months. Six months too long in Knox’s opinion. But after decades of hell, six months was a drop in the bucket. “I want anyone here that has the free time to help the crew out,” Zeus was saying. “We are trying to give as much business to Hunter at the hardware store as we can. He’s part of our community, and I want them to benefit from this as well.” “Theo and Harold will benefit feeding them, too,” Toby, one of Zeus’s mates, added. The mention of Theo’s set Knox’s thoughts on a different path. Sammy and Trevor. His blood had been set on fire last night at Trevor’s parting words, and for the life of him, he couldn’t get it out of his head. Knox needed to think of something else and quickly. He didn’t need these men to scent his arousal. Although they were in many ways like brothers, it was still none of their damn business. “Everyone still needs to remain alert. Avanti and Jesse couldn’t find out who that mystery person was out at Hank’s farm, so we have no clue who we’re dealing with here.”

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“Too bad Dirk killed Hank. We could have gotten the information out of him.” Torem looked down at his hands. Knox knew exactly how they would have gotten that information and knew why Torem couldn’t look at anyone. When Knox left the office, his mind was on Sammy and wanting to go see him. Unfortunately he had to meet the construction crew. Zeus made it clear that he wanted all the soldiers and his Betas to know who would be working on pack land. Knox drove over to the site where they would be meeting the crew. There were humans already there, equipment being brought in, and hardhats all around. “Looks like the party is waiting for us,” Taz, one of the soldiers, joked. Knox looked over the men walking around, his thoughts only half there. “Who’s the foreman?” Torem called out. A man with rolled up prints in his hand waved them in the air. “That would be me. Can I help you?” The guy walked over to Torem and Knox, eyeing them suspiciously. “I’m Torem. Zeus sent me.” The suspicion was replaced by a smile. “Names Dino.” He shook Torem’s hand. “That short for something?” Knox asked. “Names Dominique, but everyone calls me Dino.” Torem laughed. “Another Italian.” Dino frowned. “Is that a problem?” “Not in the least. Inside joke, no offense to you whatsoever.” Torem smiled. Knox eyed Torem. He was acting awfully strange. The laid-back, brooding wolf was openly laughing and…flirting? He looked up at the sky to make sure it wasn’t falling. Since when did Torem become chatty? “If there’s anything you need, just let me know.”

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Okay, Knox was taking a step back. Lightning was about to strike in a minute if Torem kept acting this way. “Will do.” Dino pointed the blueprints over his shoulder. “I’m gonna get back to work.” He tugged at his hand. Torem hadn’t let it go yet. “Nice meeting you.” “You okay?” Knox asked when the foreman walked away. “No,” Torem bit out and turned on his heel. Now that was the Beta he knew. “What’s got Torem’s panties in a ruffle?” Taz asked as he approached. “I have no fucking clue.” Knox shook his head and walked over to the crew. They all seemed nice once introductions were made. He caught Dino looking over at Torem a few times, as if he were studying him. Knox looked over the twenty-man crew made up of laborers, drywallers, electricians, carpenters, and so on. He knew there would be more once construction was in full swing. It was his job, as with the others, to memorize the faces and names of them all. He spotted Rave snapping pictures with his phone and then typing something in. That wasn’t such a bad idea, and it would help until he became familiar with the crew. Knox pulled his cell phone out and spent the next hour snapping pics and adding names. Once he was done, he shoved it in his pocket and headed for his truck, Sammy heavy on the brain. He wanted to go see his mate, the need making him walk faster. “Hey, don’t forget the groundbreaking ceremony and Jasper’s dinner this evening,” Taz called to him. Shit, he had forgotten about that. Knox climbed into his truck and turned it toward town. He parked in front of Theo’s and got out. The tavern wasn’t too full. It was only ten in the morning. The lunch crowd would start coming in about another hour. “Hey, Knox.” Theo shook his hand. “What’s got you here so early?” He snickered.

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“Where is he?” Theo knew and was fucking with him about it. “In the kitchen, you can go back if you want.” “Can he leave with me now?” Theo shrugged. “I can call Benny to come in and work Sammy’s shift. What’s up?” “We’re having a groundbreaking ceremony and dinner. I wanted to take Sammy with me.” Knox’s thoughts touched on Trevor. Even if he could accept the fact that Trevor was a vampire, it would still be daylight out when the ceremony took place. His attendance wouldn’t be a welcomed thing if it meant him harm. “Go ahead and invite him. I’ll go call Benny.” Theo set down the glass he had been wiping as Knox walked to the kitchen. He found Sammy singing to himself as he scrubbed some pans out. Knox just stood there watching him. The man couldn’t sing to save his life, but it was a sight nonetheless. Sammy looked good happy. “Hey.” Sammy screamed and whirled around, his hand clenching his shirt right where his heart lay. Knox hadn’t intended to scare the poor guy. “I’m sorry.” “I was just in my own little world. I didn’t hear you come in.” He shut the water off and dried his hands. They both stood there silently for a moment. “I wanted to invite you to a groundbreaking ceremony my family is having for the new house we’re building.” Sammy’s eyes widened, and he shifted from foot to foot. “I can’t. I have to work. But thank you for the invitation.” “Theo’s letting you have the rest of the day off. He said he’d call Benny to finish your shift.” “I can’t afford to take time off.” Knox could scent agitation and wondered if Sammy wasn’t hiding something. “Is that the only reason?” When Sammy’s eyes lowered, he knew it wasn’t. “Tell me.”

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“It’s too…oh, heck, I don’t have a thing to wear.” Knox chuckled. “Wear what you have on now. My family doesn’t stand on ceremony. Wear what makes you comfortable.” “Are you sure? I don’t want to be underdressed.” “I’m wearing this.” Knox splayed his hands at his jeans and shirt. **** Sammy wasn’t sure. He really, really didn’t want to feel like the poor man at a rich man’s ceremony. “Do you promise no one is going to be dressed up?” He couldn’t believe he was actually considering this. “I promise. So is that a yes?” Knox’s voice was so full of hope that Sammy didn’t have it in his heart to refuse the guy. “That’s a yes.” Sammy found himself smiling widely at Knox. He found his excitement mounting as they left the Bar and Grill and headed toward Knox’s home. Sammy stole glances as he watched Knox drive. The firm hands on the steering wheel once again made him wonder what they would feel like caressing his skin. The way the black T-shirt stretched over well-defined muscles had Sammy growing hard, fast. His erection quickly deflated when he saw how many people were here. Knox had told him the ceremony wasn’t until late afternoon, early evening. So what was with the crowd? “Is there something else going on?” “No, it’s just my family. I brought you a little early so you could meet everyone.” Who took a guy they just met to meet the family? What if they didn’t like him? Sammy knew he wasn’t as fun-loving as some guys. As a matter of fact, he was pretty antisocial. That was one of the things Connolly had complained about him. His ex had been a social butterfly while Sammy liked staying at home with a good movie and cuddles. Apparently Connolly didn’t

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think staying at home was fun. He would go out without Sammy, and Sammy swore when Connolly got home he could smell another’s cologne on him. Not one to stir the pot, Sammy never questioned him about it. “Hey, where are you?” Sammy blinked a few times and saw that Knox was staring at him. “Sorry.” “If you don’t want to be here, we could go somewhere else. I don’t want you uncomfortable.” Sammy remembered what Trevor said about mates and that Knox was one of his. He was still having a hard time swallowing all of it. Looking closely at Knox, he couldn’t see a wolf. All he saw was a very handsome man. “We can stay.” If Trevor was telling the truth, and Sammy couldn’t see why the vampire would lie to him, then he needed to get to know Knox’s family. It was scary, though. “Come on, babe. It’ll be fine.” “Will you eat them if it’s not?” Sammy curled his lips in when he realized he let the cat out of the bag. He wasn’t sure if Knox intended for him to know. Knox had his door opened but still sat in his seat. He eyed Sammy for a long moment and then asked, “How did you find out?” “I asked Trevor.” Sammy was just sinking his foot deeper into his mouth. Knox already didn’t like Trevor, and this wasn’t helping his case any. “I see. So what else did the vampire tell you?” Knox shifted around and waited for an answer. “Are you mad at him?” “No.” “Promise?” Knox ran his fingers over Sammy’s face and smiled, knocking all of his defenses to hell. “I promise.”

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“He said all three of us were mates.” Knox’s eye twitched, and Sammy wasn’t sure if that was a good thing or not. Knox promised he wasn’t mad, but his face was telling a different story. “Is that what he said?” Knox groused. “Uh-huh.” Sammy prayed he hadn’t knocked Trevor’s chance out of the water to be accepted by Knox. “Why don’t you like him, besides him being a vampire?” Knox sighed and sat back. “The only vampires I’ve come into contact with were out to kill. I haven’t met a decent one yet.” “But Trevor is,” Sammy quickly defended. “We went driving last night, and he was really nice and funny, too.” He placed his hand on top of Knox’s. “Will you try and give him a chance?” He watched the play of emotions run across Knox’s face before resignation settled over it. “For you, I’ll try.” That’s all he could ask. “So let’s go meet your family.” “Since you already know we’re shifters, it’s called a pack,” Knox informed him before getting out. “A pack, okay, that makes sense. I think,” Sammy mumbled and opened his door and met Knox by the front of the truck. The large man took his hand and led him over to the men milling about. He was happy to see he knew a few faces. Jesse and Craig were there, and he remembered a few faces from the tavern. What made Sammy’s head spin was the sheer magnitude of the one Knox introduced as Zeus. Holy mother of saltines, the guy was huge! Sammy would need a step stool, on top of a ladder, on top of a step stool, just to be eye level with the guy. And here he thought Knox and Trevor were tall. He was getting dizzy just staring up at the man. Knox guided him over to some guys named Taz and Rave. These two seemed pretty nice. “So you found your mate?” Rave asked as he smiled at Sammy. He could see Knox hesitating with his answer. Was he going to deny Trevor? Sammy waited to see how Knox handled this.

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“One of them.” He rubbed the back of his neck and stared over at Taz. “So you think you have two like the others?” Taz asked and winked at Sammy with a smile. He liked Taz. “I have another,” Knox said as he wiped a hand over his mouth, mumbling his words. Sammy glared up at him. “What was that?” Rave asked. “I said I have another.” “Well, where is he?” Taz asked. Sammy could see the sweat on Knox’s face, so he decided to help him out. “There is a third. His name is Trevor, and he’s a really nice guy.” “Didn’t he want to come?” Rave asked Sammy. “Well, it’s kinda hard when he can’t come out in sunlight. Besides, Knox and Trevor have technical difficulties they need to work out.” There, that should help. Taz and Rave gaped at Knox. “Can’t come out in sunlight?” Taz asked with a questioning tone. They both looked from Knox to Sammy, and then back to Knox. “Yeah, so?” Knox asked with attitude. “He’s a vampire, and the two don’t see eye-to-eye. As a matter of fact, they don’t see at all. Knox refuses to listen to Trevor and wasn’t very nice, and Trevor likes Knox but won’t admit it because Knox wasn’t very nice.” Sammy smiled up at Knox. That should help. Sammy started to think he wasn’t helping when Knox groaned and Taz and Rave started laughing hysterically. “Come on.” Knox pulled him away, leaving the two still laughing as Knox briskly walked over to another pair talking. ****

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Trevor sat back in his car. He was waiting for Sammy to come out so they could go for another drive. The little bugger had wormed his way into his heart last night. That wasn’t something Trevor allowed. He sat back and thought about his coven. It angered him every time he thought of the argument he had with Michael, the coven leader. The leader had advised him to keep his sexual deviance hidden. How was being gay a deviant? When he didn’t agree, even went so far as to openly admit it, Michael had lost his cool and a fight had ensued. The only reason Trevor had left was that he didn’t want the headache of running a coven. He could have taken Michael handsdown. He wasn’t even worth it. No homophobic was. Why should he have to defend who he was and who he slept with? He considered joining Christian’s coven, but the idea to be out on his own for a while had appealed to him. Until he met Knox. The only reason Knox had him on the floor was because he caught him off guard. That wouldn’t happen again. Trevor was brought out of his thoughts when Sammy opened the back door. It had been too long since someone affected him this way. He loved the fact that Sammy was so naïve and kind. It was refreshing after dealing with the shadiest of characters. “Hi.” Sammy smiled at him as he approached Trevor’s car. “Can we go for a ride?” “Sure, little darling. Get in.” Trevor watched Sammy hurry around and open the passenger door. The little guy brought calmness to him that Trevor was quickly becoming addicted to. “Same drive?” he asked as he started the car. Sammy nodded, and Trevor smiled. He put the car in drive and then put it back in park. Standing in front of the car was Knox. “Please don’t fight.” Sammy begged when he spotted the wolf standing there.

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“I promise I won’t start it.” And that’s all he could promise. He watched as Knox walked around to Sammy’s side and then knelt down, resting his arms on the window. “Heading out, babe?” Knox asked Sammy, but Trevor could see how the wolf was stealing glances at him. “Yes, we go for rides at night. Would you like to come?” Sammy turned to Trevor and pleaded with his eyes. Trevor shrugged indifferently, although he was feeling anything but. The wolf affected him in ways he didn’t care to admit. He knew it was the mating thing, but Trevor felt it was something more. “That’s not up to me.” Knox glanced over at him. Trevor saw uncertainty in the man’s eyes. It brought his defenses down slightly. “I don’t care,” he admitted. Sammy jumped out and got into the back seat. Trevor watched as the large man climbed in front. The urge to reach over and touch him was strong, but he kept his hands to himself, gripping the steering wheel tighter instead. Once everyone was settled, he pulled out of the back parking lot and took the same route as last night. “This is so exciting. You’re going to love this, Knox. It feels like freedom when you ride at night.” Sammy was bubbling from the back seat. “It does for me at least,” he added on. Trevor and Knox spent the first half hour ignoring each other, and then the next stealing glances. Every time one caught the other looking, their eyes shot straight ahead. “So you guys just ride the back roads?” Knox surprised him with the question. “Sammy likes it.” Trevor looked at Knox a little longer this time and saw how nervous he was. To see hesitation in a man that seemed to exude strength made him relax. “I thought you did, too,” Sammy said from the back seat. “I do, little darling. I like being with you even if we don’t go anywhere at all.” Trevor stiffened when Knox reached over and ran his hand over his. He inhaled through his teeth as Knox’s thumb

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brushed over his knuckles. Unsure of what the wolf was up to, Trevor let his hand lie where it was. The tingles ran up his arm at the man’s ministrations. His touch was almost an exploration, as if he were trying to see if he could handle skin contact. Trevor allowed it. In fact, he was relishing it. Knox’s index finger traced over each bump in his knuckles, over every finger on his hand. It was frustrating and exhilarating at the same time. Trevor chanced it and turned his hand over. Knox continued his journey on his palm. He stole a glance, and saw how Knox’s brows were pulled together as he made circles over his skin. Their eyes met, and the wolf quickly looked away, taking his hand with him. Trevor felt the loss and curled his fingers in against the coldness now there. “Does this mean you like each other?” Sammy’s head popped up between the two. “Why don’t you have your seat belt on?” Knox asked, his voice a little shaky. “It’s a little lonely back here,” Sammy confessed. “Then come on up.” Knox held his hands out for their mate to climb over the seats. “I don’t think that’s such a good idea. He should be buckled in.” Trevor voiced his concern, but Sammy was already wiggling his way up front. Trevor had to concentrate on the road when that small ass wiggled right past his face. The urge to nip it made his gums ache. “I promise to be careful.” Knox wrapped his arms around Sammy, and Trevor longed to be in that circle, too. When the wolf began to nuzzle Sammy’s neck, he damn near veered off of the road. His cock became hard as concrete watching Knox work his tongue around the back of Sammy’s neck, and then he heard the little whining noises coming from Sammy’s throat. It was more than Trevor could stand. He pulled the car over and shoved it in park, leaning over to get a taste of Sammy. Not sure how

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receptive Knox would be, Trevor made sure not to come in contact with him. This was a test. It had to be. “Oh boy.” Sammy gasped when Trevor reached his hand down and pressed into Sammy’s denim-covered cock. It was hard and made Trevor’s own weep with joy. He leaned in further, the bucket seats preventing him from moving all of the way over to Sammy’s side. Trevor took Sammy’s lips in a devouring kiss as Knox sucked on the other side of Sammy’s neck. His little mate’s arms wrapped around his neck and his lips parted as Trevor pushed his tongue in, dueling his tongue with Sammy’s. He was shocked the little guy knew how to kiss so well. Trevor didn’t put too much hope in the shifter. He knew it was the pull of the mating that had the man sitting in his car. There was no way Knox came to terms with what Trevor was. Maybe a bout of sex would help sway Knox and convince him that Trevor wasn’t evil. Or maybe the wolf would come to his senses and leave Trevor in the dust, taking Sammy with him. He couldn’t allow that. Trevor forgot what the hell he was thinking when Sammy pushed his cock harder into his hand. He had to fight not to sink his teeth into Sammy’s tender flesh. Knox would go ballistic if he did, Trevor just knew it. He settled for nipping Sammy’s bottom lip and drawing in the tiny little beads of blood that welled up. Even that miniscule amount had an instant affect on him. The sweet-tasting fluid fogged Trevor’s mind. He wanted more. Not in a feeding sort of way, but in a mating way. “Don’t bite him,” Knox warned in a husky voice. Trevor pulled on his mental reins with all his strength, stopping the need to drink from Sammy in its tracks. He unsnapped Sammy’s jeans instead as his little mate moaned at the action. Trevor released Sammy’s cock, palming it in his hand. Knox’s hand joined his, and Trevor wasn’t sure what to do. The large fingers

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wrapped around his and began a slow stroking motion. Sammy’s hips bucked, and a mewl shot from his lips. “That’s right, darling, come for us,” Knox coaxed in Sammy’s ear. Trevor’s own erection jerked at the deep tone. He wanted to hear Knox say that to him in the worst way. His hand squeezed Sammy’s cock, Knox running his thumb over the head of Sammy’s cock. Trevor watched both hands in utter fascination. He’d had ménages before, but this was different. These two were his mates. Sammy cried out and arched his back, his seed shooting out and hitting the dashboard. His small mate fell against Knox’s chest as he panted and groaned. And then the headlights flooded the car, flashing lights hurting Trevor’s sensitive eyes.

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Chapter Four Avanti got out of the police car with Jesse. He didn’t care what anyone in this town thought, he wasn’t chancing his mate being out here at night all on his own. Sure Jesse complained about not needing a sitter when patrolling the town, but after the Italian mobster Dirk Alvisio had kidnapped Jesse in an attempt to get at his other mate, Craig, Avanti took every precaution. He walked up to the side of the car that was parked on the side of the road, stepping to the passenger side. Avanti was surprised to see Knox sitting in the seat with his new mate Sammy on his lap. And was that cum he smelled? “Is everything all right here?” Jesse asked from the other side. Avanti wanted to tell his mate to leave the newly mated pair to their privacy until he saw there was a third in the car. Avanti’s senses went nuts when he smelled a vampire. They had a distinctive scent that made Avanti shove his body over the hood and slide across to the other side, grabbing his mate around his waist as he bared his canines. Knox quickly exited the car, Sammy attached to his hip as he came around to stand at the driver’s door. “Don’t,” Knox warned. “So it’s true. Your other mate is a vampire?” Avanti shoved Jesse further behind him. “And what if it is? That doesn’t give you the right to attack him.” Knox pressed his back against the door, blocking the third man from view.

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“You know the pack won’t accept him.” Avanti growled when he felt Jesse’s elbow in his back. He turned to his mate. “What?” “That’s just as bad as when Clancy was spouting hate stuff to Sammy there.” Jesse pointed to Knox’s small mate. “You shouldn’t say things like that.” “Yeah,” Sammy yelled at him. “Trevor’s a nice guy, and you shouldn’t judge him without getting to know him first.” “Well then, let me meet him,” Avanti challenged all three. He saw the hesitation in Knox’s eyes before he moved aside. The driver’s door slowly opened and a tall and mysterious-looking man stepped out. They eyed each other for a moment, Avanti making sure Jesse was behind him. “So, you’re Trevor?” “I am.” The guy’s lip tugged back into a half smile. “And you are?” “Avanti.” He already didn’t like this guy’s smugness. Who the hell did he think he was? His eyes darted over to Knox. “I don’t like it.” “You don’t have to,” Sammy answered. “I do if he’s to live with us,” Avanti snapped at Knox. He wasn’t going to yell at the little guy, but having a vampire at home wasn’t sitting well with him. “Come on.” Jesse pulled at him. “We can discuss this later.” Avanti allowed Jesse to tug him back to the patrol car. He watched Trevor with both eyes as he got in. “This isn’t right.” Jesse started the car. “You may not think so, but fate did. Let it go.” Avanti would be watching Trevor. One false move and he’d eliminate the undead man. ****

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All three sat on Sammy’s couch, no one saying anything and no one making a move. Sammy strummed his fingers on his knee, sighing heavily and loudly for the fifth time. For heaven’s sake, they had no problem pulling his cock out in the car and getting him off. Now the two men looked like they needed an enema. Trevor ran his hands down the front of his pants for the hundredth time, and Knox sat there with his arms crossed over his chest and a scowl on his face. Sammy was never one to initiate sex, but his nerves were getting frazzled here. The tension was so thick you would need a jackhammer to get through it. Sammy steeled his nerves and reached over to Knox, pulling his arms from his chest. His mate let them fall to his lap, looking at Sammy curiously. Sammy reached over and grabbed Trevor’s hand as he straddled Knox’s lap. “This is ridiculous. We’re all grown men here.” Sammy pulled Trevor’s hand down to his erection as he leaned forward and kissed Knox. The response was instantaneous. It was like lighting a wick and watching it slowly traveling toward an explosion that had Sammy excited as hell. Sammy arched his back and pushed his erection into Knox’s, feeling Trevor’s hand slide down the back of his pants at the same time. Sammy knew the two didn’t get along, knew in his heart that they had a hurdle they needed to get over in order for the three of them to get along, and he was determined to be that catalyst that tossed both their asses over it and onto the other side. His hand snared Trevor’s neck and pulled him into a three way kiss. He could feel both of them pull back slightly, their lips becoming stiff. Sammy kept right on kissing them, grinding into Knox and pushing his ass onto Trevor’s hand. They were going to relent, damn it. If he had to tie them both up…oh fuck, Sammy was going to come at the image. Sammy pulled at Knox’s and Trevor’s hair, demanding they kiss him and each other. Trevor was the first to soften his lips, kissing

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Sammy and Knox. Sammy pulled back and mashed their mouths together. It was the hottest thing since thongs were invented. Sammy panted as he watched Trevor inch closer, snaking his hands around Knox’s neck and pulling him down. He had to scoot back when Knox rolled Trevor onto his back and deepened the kiss. It was like his very own porno playing right in front of him. Sammy did what any man would do when watching one. He pulled his cock free and slowly stroked it as he watched the angry way they kissed each other. Knox broke the kiss and looked up at Sammy, smiling when he saw him masturbating to the sight. Knox leaned back and freed his own cock, matching Sammy’s stroke for stroke. Sammy swallowed his tongue when Trevor turned over and licked at Knox’s cock and then his. Trevor grabbed both their cocks and ran his tongue between the two, lapping away all the pre-cum that was dripping out. Knox had to grab Sammy as he leaned back and almost fell off of Knox’s lap. It felt too good. Trevor got to his knees and slobbered all over their pricks. Sammy grabbed Knox’s shoulders, hanging on for dear life as Trevor swallowed his cock and then Knox’s, as if he couldn’t make up his mind whose he wanted to get off first. Knox leaned forward and took Sammy’s lips in a searing kiss as Trevor took his cock into his mouth once again. Sammy moaned at the raw earthy taste of Knox. Sammy bit Knox’s lip when Trevor pushed on his magic button, the tip of his finger sliding in. Sammy licked at Knox’s mouth, pressing down on Trevor’s finger, pushing forward into Knox’s mouth. Knox held onto him, as if he knew how wild Trevor was driving him. That lit wick had reached the keg and Sammy exploded, crying into Knox’s mouth as he came down Trevor’s throat. His cock pulsed as it emptied. Trevor licked him clean but kept his finger inside of Sammy, taking Knox into his mouth next. Sammy leaned his forehead

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into Knox’s chin as he watched Trevor slob and suck at Knox’s cock. Holy shit, his own cock was trying to come back to life watching him. The man knew what he was doing, that was for sure. Sammy bounced his ass on Trevor’s finger, begging with his body for another. He rolled his hips, pushing Trevor’s finger deeper. Sammy’s hair was pulled by Knox, the wolf hissing as Trevor took him all the way down. Knox bucked, almost dislodging Sammy and Trevor. Sammy pushed at Knox’s chest, grinding his ass on two fingers now. His ass held Trevor’s fingers tight, rocking on them and feeling them pull out and then thrust back in. Knox arched and hissed, panted, and grunted as he came. Sammy was enslaved at the sight. Knox’s eyes rolled back as his hips hitched a few more times. Trevor pulled his head up, staring at them both with a wicked gleam in his eyes. Knox rolled from the couch, knocking Sammy and Trevor to the floor as he tore at Sammy’s clothes. Trevor pulled his clothes free and yanked Sammy from Knox’s arms. “I’m fucking him, so if you want to sink that large cock somewhere, it’ll have to be in me.” Sammy held his breath, wondering if Knox would agree. The shifters cock was filled and throbbing once again, so the thought must not have repulsed him. Sammy reached under the couch cushion, extracting a bottle of lube. Both men stared at him. Sammy shrugged. “Late-night movies make me horny.” He grinned. “Yeah, because Fred Astaire is so hot.” Trevor chuckled as he grabbed the lube. He laid Sammy on his back and thrust two wet fingers into his ass, making Sammy squirm and pull his legs back. He stared into Knox’s eyes, begging him to fuck Trevor. Knox slowly rose and disrobed, Sammy drooling at the sight of all those ripped muscles. He reached his arms up, and Knox knelt down by him, kissing him as Trevor stretched him. When Sammy felt the tip of Trevor’s cock at his ass, he pushed Knox back. “Do it,” he dared the wolf.

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Knox’s nostrils flared. He grabbed the lube and pressed Trevor forward. Sammy prayed Knox wasn’t too rough with Trevor. Trevor leaned over Sammy, smiling down at him with his cock barely in his ass. “Hello, little darling,” he teased and then hissed, his fangs showing as his head rolled from side to side. It was a breathtaking sight to watch the euphoria on his face as Knox stretched him. Sammy grabbed Trevor’s face and pulled him down for a kiss as Knox got behind Trevor. A deep moan vibrated through him from Trevor. Knox must be in his ass, too. His legs were pushed back, Knox moving inside of Trevor. Sammy looked up at the shifter, and Knox winked at him. He grinned from ear to ear and then arched his back as Trevor bottomed out. For a reason Sammy couldn’t understand, he tilted his head to the side, wanting Trevor to bite him. Trevor trembled. He could see the want, no, a need in Trevor’s eyes, but they both knew Knox would go nuts if he did. Trevor leaned forward, licking at Sammy’s pulse in his neck, apparently teasing himself with what he was afraid to take. Sammy looked up at Knox. The wolf had his hands on Trevor’s back, and he was thrusting hard into Trevor. Sammy pulled his legs back further, giving Trevor room to nail him. Trevor latched onto one of Sammy’s nipples, sucking and licking as they both fucked and were fucked. Sammy’s hands ran through Trevor’s silky hair, pressing his nipple into Trevor’s mouth. They were ultrasensitive, and Trevor was driving him wild just by sucking them. “I’m close.” Sammy keened. Trevor grabbed Sammy’s cock, matching Knox’s thrust with his palm. Sammy began a sensual dance under Trevor. His hips swayed and his arms snaked over his own body, driving his two lovers crazy. Trevor and Knox thrust harder watching him. Sammy saw Knox’s teeth grow, and he was fascinated. His body began to roll, pressing his ass toward Trevor, groaning and licking his lips.

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“Fuck.” Knox moaned, hitching his hips hard into Trevor. Sammy gasped as Knox thrust forward, sinking his long teeth into Trevor’s shoulder. He didn’t miss a beat as Sammy grabbed Trevor’s head and pushed it at his neck. Trevor sank his fangs into Sammy’s neck, making Sammy scream out as he came with a force he’d never before experienced. All three were connected in such an intimate way that Sammy flew to heights and shot across the heavens as his balls emptied. He held onto Trevor’s head, never wanting the feeling to leave his body. All too soon Trevor pulled back and licked his neck. He shouted and came into Sammy’s ass. Knox stiffened behind Trevor, releasing his passion into Trevor. Trevor laid his cheek on Sammy’s chest, and Knox fell to his hands, sweat pouring down his face as he licked Trevor’s back. Sammy knew Knox was lost in the sated pleasure. Otherwise he probably wouldn’t be so gentle with the vampire, which was a shame. The two looked good together. Knox pulled from behind Trevor and rolled to his back, his arm falling over his eyes as he caught his breath. Trevor pulled Sammy from the floor, taking him to the bedroom and crawling onto the bed. He spooned Sammy, nuzzling his neck. Knox came into the room, staring at the two. “Come on.” Sammy held his arms out, and Knox got into the bed, pressing his chest against Sammy. Sammy smiled, feeling content as a kitten. **** Knox fought hard as he tried to get Jackson’s hands from around his neck. He clawed at the Alpha’s face, a face that was pulled back in a menacing smile. “You’ll kill her or I’ll kill you,” Jackson snarled.

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Knox knew he couldn’t do it. She was an innocent. He heaved his body, falling to the floor and rolling around as Jackson shifted, his claws raking across Knox’s chest. “Knox, wake up!” The scene faded, and Knox blinked his eyes a few times to clear his head. He looked down at his hands wrapped around Trevor’s neck as the vampire fought to free himself. It took a second for the ramifications of what was going on to sink in. He jerked his hands back, staring in horror at the vampire. Sammy was on Knox’s back, his arm wrapped around Knox’s neck, pulling with all of his might. “He’s not Jackson. Let him go.” Sammy was sobbing and yanking. Knox pulled Sammy off of his back and set him down with Trevor. He shot off of the bed and knocked his body into the wall a few times as he tried to run from the room. What had he done? “Knox.” Sammy ran after him. “No.” He held his hand up. “Stay back.” The monster was loose, and he didn’t trust it around his mate. The monster that Jackson had created. His ex-Alpha had tried to rip his humanity from him, and Knox was fighting for his sanity right now. “Who’s Jackson?” Sammy cried. There was no way he could tell Sammy or anyone else what had taken place in that house. It was a horror-filled life back then, and he would die with those haunting secrets. Knox reached down and grabbed his clothes. He needed air. He needed to get away from his mates in the mood he was in right now. Even though he fought against his mating with the vampire, questioned fate about the pairing, he would never purposefully hurt the man. Knox was not the monster Jackson tried to torture out of him. He couldn’t be.

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Fate wouldn’t have given him Sammy and Trevor only for him to turn around and harm them. No, he needed to think. Knox’s head was a mess right now and he needed time to himself. “Go back to bed, Sammy.” Knox pulled his shoes on, avoiding his mate’s eyes. Shame filled him at what he had done. “Where are you going?” “Home. I’ll come by later to see you.” Knox grabbed his keys and slammed the door behind him as he left Sammy standing in the living room. He drove home and then walked the path to the pond all the soldiers seemed to take solace at. Jackson’s presence was still with him. He could feel it down to his bones. Knox knew Jackson was being held below the house somewhere. They all did, and they all had searched to find him. None of them had any luck, and Zeus wasn’t forthcoming with the location. His only answer had been to let the son of a bitch rot, lonely and with his own demons. Knox rocked back and forth, growling out his anguish. How could he face either of those two again knowing what he had done? He sat there alone watching the sky slowly grow pink, wondering if Trevor was safely out of its harmful rays. That was another thing that weighed heavy on his mind. When he first discovered Trevor was his mate, he wanted to grab Sammy and run as far away as he could. But after spending time with Trevor, Knox was slowly getting to like him. He wasn’t supposed to like vampires. They were the enemy. But his way of thinking was changing, and that scared Knox. When he was inside of Trevor, all his reservations fell away. His mate had been so responsive and soft to touch. Knox was craving him again already. He wasn’t supposed to want a vampire. And yet he did. Knox stood when he saw Bald Eagle sitting off in the distance. “Do you always invade a person’s privacy?”

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Eagle shook his head, his eyes resembling a lost soul. Knox knew that Eagle was the one who suffered the most at Jackson’s hands, and he was surprised the soldier was even sane. “No,” he said quietly. “I was trying not to disturb you. I spend ninety percent of my time out here.” Knox nodded, leaving the pond to Eagle, who seemed to need it the most. **** Knox prayed the new house had been built overnight. To his dismay, it was only getting underway when he pulled up to the construction site. He spotted Torem sitting in his truck, watching the men work. Knox knew there was only one man Torem had his eyes on. He spotted Dino talking with a few men and saw how Torem’s mouth was pulled back in a scowl. “Hey.” One of the workers headed Knox’s way. Knox went through his catalogue of faces to names in his mind quickly to remember the guy’s name. “Hey, Quinn.” Knox shook his hand. The soldiers had learned that not all who worked on the crew were human. The guy smiled as he looked over at the site. “It’s going well so far, but we’ve just started.” He chuckled. Knox felt better knowing the new house was being built. Although it was months away from completion, just knowing he wouldn’t be under that roof anymore made his heart lighter. “Looks like it’s going to be a perfect day to get started. The forecast calls for sun.” He looked down at Quinn. The guy was chiseled and well-defined, but seemed to have a lot of energy to him. “Yeah, it’s perfect. I need to head back over. Laborers are laying mesh this morning, and we need to get it done before the concrete

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trucks show up tomorrow, our first pour. Just wanted to stop and say hi.” The guy took off when Dino yelled for him to get his ass back to work. Knox laughed at the way Quinn saluted Dino and then ran to help the laborers. “Where are your mates?” “At home,” Knox answered one of the soldiers named Sully who approached him. He got along pretty well with the guy, but if he started in on him about Trevor, they were going to have issues. “So, it’s true?” “Yeah, you got a problem with it?” He was shocked at how protective he was with his vampire when he himself was still struggling with it, even after last night. “Not at all. You don’t choose who fate gives you. As long as he’s not rogue, we should get along just peachy.” Sully grinned and patted Knox on his shoulder before heading away. Knox made for his truck, anxious to see Sammy and scared as hell to face him. He knew he had until this evening to face Trevor and was thankful for the time. With no sleep, Knox drove to town. When he pulled into the parking space in front of Theo’s, Knox decided to visit the florist. He walked around the corner and pushed the door open to Julien’s Floral shop. Knox had never been in there before, never had the occasion to visit it, and felt like a pansy for getting flowers for Sammy. “Can I help you?” Knox saw a nice-looking young man standing over by one of the displays smiling at him. He’d never noticed this guy in town before. “I need some flowers.” The man smiled a knowing smile at him. “Do you know what kind?” “Flowers?” How many kinds were there? The man chuckled. “I thought you looked a little lost when you came in. What’s the occasion?”

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I’m an idiot with more baggage than an airport so please forgive me. “Saying sorry to someone.” “Roses are always nice.” The man walked over to a beautiful display of red roses. Knox noticed the man limped more than walked and wondered about it. He pushed the thought aside when he saw all the beautiful roses the owner was showing him. “I’ll take them all.” What the hell, couldn’t hurt. “Wow, how far in the doghouse are you?” The guy had no idea. He was going to give half to Trevor. Hopefully that got him out of the doghouse, as this man put it. “My name’s Julien. If you ever need flowers or fruit basket of any kind, here’s my card.” Julien handed it over and Knox took it, shoving it into his pocket as he gave the address to Theo’s for Julien to deliver. “But I want half of those delivered at closing time. Is that okay?” “Sure, I close at eight. Do you want them delivered to the same address?” Knox had no clue where Trevor lived, so Theo’s was his only option. Maybe Julien would deliver them to the back parking lot. It’s where Trevor always was. “Yes.” He paid for the flowers and then made his way around the corner. The closer he stepped to Theo’s, the more nervous he became. What if Sammy didn’t want to hear what he had to say? It was a chance he had to take. Knox walked into the tavern, his eyes automatically scanning for Sammy. When he didn’t see him, he assumed his mate was in the kitchen. “Where’s Sammy?” he asked Theo as he took a seat at the bar. “He called down, said he wouldn’t be in this morning. I asked was everything fine and he said yeah.” Knox was immediately on his feet, making his way up the back steps to Sammy’s. He turned the handle to Sammy's apartment door and found it opened. Knox crossed the threshold and saw Trevor and

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Sammy’s clothes still lying in a heap on the floor. Not knowing what to think, Knox headed for the bedroom. It was empty. What the hell? He stood still, his eyes scanning, when he heard whimpering coming from the closet. Knox moved slowly toward the closet door, listening closely. He heard the whimpering again and reached for the handle. He opened it and stood there stunned. “Shut it!” Sammy yelled. Knox walked into the large closet and shut the door behind him. “What’s going on?” “Trevor overslept and the sun got him.”

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Chapter Five Trevor lay under the blanket Sammy had thrown over him in a world of pain. His skin was blistered and peeling. He whimpered again when Knox knelt down and pulled the blanket back. “Shit.” Trevor looked up into Knox’s eyes. His mate looked helpless. “What can we do?” “You don’t want to know,” Trevor tried to tease, but it came out more like a whine. Knox clenched his jaw and extended his claw, slicing across his wrist and shoving it at Trevor’s mouth. As much as Trevor wanted to refuse, he latched on and drank deeply. He could see the struggle on Knox’s face but was feeling the healing effects immediately. His skin no longer felt like it was on fire and his eyes were beginning to moisten again, the burning and scratching no longer there. Trevor also saw the bulge in Knox’s jeans. He was aware how sexual a feeding could be, experienced it thousands of times himself. Somehow he knew Knox wouldn’t welcome relief right now. The wolf seemed to be barely dealing with feeding Trevor. Trevor had to figure out a way to reach Knox, to find out what was so hard about accepting a vampire as his mate. Did something traumatic happen or was it a prejudice to his entire race? “Are you feeling better?” Sammy hovered close, his eyes fixated on Trevor’s feeding. He nodded, the feeling of being on fire no longer eating at his skin. Trevor licked the wound closed and dropped his eyes down to the floor, unsure how Knox was going to act now. His

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breath caught in his throat when Knox ran his hand over Trevor’s hair. “Are you healed now?” Trevor nodded his head, still unable to look up. “Can I touch you?” Sammy asked. “Yes, I’m healed.” Sammy fell into Trevor’s arms. “You had me so scared,” he cried. Trevor petted Sammy’s back, inhaling his mate’s scent and feeling better just from being held. He’d never really known close intimacy like this, not sexual, but soulful. He was bound to these two, and at least Sammy seemed to appreciate him. It was more than he was used to. “I’ll go black the windows out for you,” Knox said in a low voice. “Cover up so I can open the door.” Trevor did, and Knox left the closet. “Are you really healed?” “Yes, little darling.” Trevor kissed his forehead and then pulled Sammy close. His small mate lifted the blanket and scooted under it. Trevor was still naked, and Sammy had a pair of boxer briefs on. He could see how hard Sammy was. “Did my feeding turn you on?” Sammy blushed and nodded. Trevor smiled and pulled Sammy to his body, running his hands over his mate’s smooth skin. He hitched his fingers into the waistband of Sammy’s underwear and pulled them free, Sammy lifting his legs to help. “Sit on me.” Trevor pulled his back to the wall, resting against it as Sammy straddled his lap. Only having made love a few hours before, Sammy was still nice and stretched, gliding easily onto Trevor’s hard cock. “Damn, it gets better each time,” Trevor moaned. “It does,” Sammy agreed. He placed his hands on Trevor’s chest and began to ride his cock up and down, his lips slightly parted as he bounced on Trevor’s shaft.

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“That’s it, ride me.” Trevor grabbed Sammy’s hips, helping him along as his prick slid in and out of that tight little hole. He frowned when Sammy stopped. “What’s wrong?” Sammy looked up into Trevor’s eyes. “Will you bite me?” Trevor grinned, and he knew his fangs were showing. “Is that what you want?” “Uh-huh, it felt good the last time you did it.” Trevor’s cock jerked and then he sank his fangs into Sammy’s shoulder. His mate cried out. Trevor thrust harder as he drank the sweet nectar, ratcheting up into Sammy’s ass. He licked the wound closed just as the closet door opened. “Fuck me, man.” Knox unzipped his jeans and pushed his hardened cock at Trevor’s lips. Trevor opened and took Knox down his throat. He continued to fuck Sammy’s ass as he sucked Knox’s cock, feeling like he’d hit the lottery. Trevor prayed he was one step closer to winning Knox’s approval. The guy did seem to like the blow jobs Trevor gave. “I’m coming,” Knox warned, and Trevor sucked him down his throat, taking pleasure in the taste of his shifter as Knox’s seed streamed down his throat. Knox grunted, and Trevor finally came, spreading his seed inside Sammy. “Oh god,” Sammy groaned. “Can we do that again?” “I think I have a little addict on my hands now.” Trevor chuckled and kissed Sammy’s temple. “Did you feed from him?” Trevor tensed at the question. Was Knox about to go off on him? “Yes.” “But I asked him to,” Sammy quickly defended Trevor. He found Sammy did that a lot for him. It was something else he wasn’t used to. “I wasn’t saying anything, Sammy. I was just asking.” Knox pulled Sammy from his lap, his cock sliding out of its warm place. Knox carried Sammy from the closet, and Trevor got up, following

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behind the two. Was it him or was Knox avoiding looking at him? He took a seat on the bed, watching the two cuddle. “You, too.” Sammy reached a hand out, and Trevor scooted closer. Trevor looked up at Knox when the shifter pulled him into their private circle. He placed his hands on Knox’s broad chest, searching his eyes for any answer he might find. Knox once again avoided his gaze, but his hand skimmed over Trevor’s back. “It’s okay,” Trevor said to him. “You were having a nightmare. It’s not like you did it on purpose.” Knox leaned over and kissed Trevor’s temple, making tears rise to the surface. Trevor cleared his throat and blinked a few times, never having that kind of affection from anyone but Sammy. Trevor closed his eyes and laid his head on Knox’s chest, taking comfort in the gentle touch. **** Zeus paced his office, wondering why more vampires were cropping up. He knew Knox had mated to one, but the guy wasn’t a rogue. The vampires showing up attacking, it was more like they were searching for something, or someone. Did Trevor have trouble following him? Zeus wouldn’t be surprised. Craig had, and they dealt with his problem. Just as they would deal with Trevor’s. No one messed with a mate. Not while Zeus stood on two feet and breathed. “I want you two to find out what they’re searching for. If it’s Knox’s mate, inform me immediately.” Jaxxon shook his head. “I still can’t believe Knox has a vampire for a mate.” “Me either.” Sully grinned. “It’ll be interesting around here, especially if Minsheng finds out.” He chuckled. Zeus groaned. He hadn’t thought about that. Minsheng would hound Trevor, just to ask him a million and one questions, and then

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fuck with him afterward. Things were definitely getting interesting around here since mates started showing up. “He’s mated to a vampire, and I don’t want him catching any flak from any of you guys for it. I think he’s been through enough just like all of you guys have.” Zeus gave them both the evil eye before dismissing them. He reached into his drawer, grabbing his aspirin bottle and popping a few. Sometimes being an Alpha was a job needing many hats, counselor being at the top of the list. The urge to go to Jackson and kill him was strong. That fucker had screwed these men up pretty bad. How the hell did someone like that even survive childhood? “Hey, baby.” Zeus grinned when Jasper came into his office, crawling onto his lap. “I know that look. What’s eating you?” Jasper asked. “Hopefully you in five seconds.” Jasper laughed, and Zeus’s headache disappeared. “My pleasure.” His mate slid from his lap, and Zeus forgot all about vampires, mates, and wounded soldiers. **** Jaxxon and Sully sat in Harold’s deli, watching across the street. “I’m getting bored,” Jaxxon complained. “Zeus said more bloodsuckers were showing up, so we wait.” “Better not let Knox here you use that word,” Jaxxon warned. “Weird, ain’t it?” Jaxxon nodded. They were going to have one in their home. Well, it was better than having Jackson there. He’d take a vampire any day over that bitch. Jaxxon hated the fact that he had the same name as their ex-Alpha. It may be spelled differently, but it still fucked with his head. He

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nudged Sully, nodding his head at the pharmacy across the street and one door over from the grocery store. “Did you see that?” “Yeah, looks like the party is getting started.” Sully and Jaxxon crept out of the back entrance into the parking lot in the back and made their way around. **** Sammy giggled as Trevor turned the volume up, dancing his way back over to him. “I’ve never danced to rap music before.” “Just feel it, little darling.” Trevor grabbed him and began grinding against him. His shoulders fell back as his hips swayed. Sammy nestled his body between Trevor’s legs, running his hands over his body as the music entered their blood. Damn, Trevor could dance. Sammy pushed away and began popping his ass as he danced close. Trevor grinned at him. Trevor danced so seductively that Sammy wanted to get naked. He slapped his ass and wiggled it for Trevor, who growled and pulled Sammy close, skimming his hands down Sammy’s back and grabbing his ass. “Come on, Knox.” Sammy ran over and pulled the shifter from the couch. Knox looked lost. Trevor pulled his hand and brought them chest to chest. He ran his hands over Knox’s back, pulling his mate closer. Knox was stiff until Sammy got behind him, lacing his fingers into the belt loops on the shifter’s pants, and moved Knox’s hips for him. “It’s not hard, dancing at least.” Trevor leaned forward and ran his tongue over Knox’s lips. His mate growled and grabbed him around his waist, swaying back and forth as Sammy danced around them. The guy seemed to be in his own little world. Trevor ground his erection into Knox and smiled a devilish grin. “But that’s hard.” His heart was beating out of control. Knox was not only dancing with him. He wasn’t pulling away.

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“Do you have any more music like this?” Sammy asked as he wedged his body between theirs. Trevor ran his hand over Sammy’s head, smiling down at his small mate. “In my car.” “Will you get it? Pleeeeeease.” Now how could he resist that? Trevor kissed Knox deeply and then walked to the door. “I’ll be right back, get naughty.” He chuckled. He jogged down the back steps and out into the back parking lot. His MP3 player was in the glove box. It had a whole selection of music to choose from. He opened the glove box and pushed things around until his hand curled around it. “Thought you would challenge Michael and walk away?” Trevor stilled with his hand still in the glove box. He wasn’t sure how many vampires were behind him, but he knew who was talking. “Hello, Tyson.” Trevor straightened and turned around. He mentally cursed when he saw that there were four of them. It was going to take a lot of energy to take down all of them. “Don’t fucking hello me. You challenge our leader and then run like a little bitch.” “I left because I didn’t want to be your ringleader.” Tyson laughed. “You that confident you would have taken Michael out?” Trevor tossed the player on the passenger seat and closed the door. “More than.” He did not want to deal with this right now, not when he had two very hot guys upstairs waiting on him. Tyson and his popgun gang had the worst timing. “Looks like we’re right on time for your party.” Trevor growled when he saw two shifters come walk around to the back of Theo’s. Now shifters wanted to fuck with him? All he wanted was to get back upstairs and fuck, get fucked, and soak the sheets with hot and sweaty bodies. Fighting could wait.

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Tyson’s dumb ass was the first to charge. Trevor had no choice but to defend himself. He twisted his body out of the way as Tyson reached his claws out. If the shifters kept the others occupied, then he could take down the two attacking him. Trevor extended his claws and exposed his fangs as he ripped into the guy next to Tyson, taking him down easily. Taking down Tyson seemed a bit more challenging. His claw swiped across Trevor’s chest, a gash opening and blood spanning across his shirt. “You fucker.” Trevor feigned a left hook and then came in with an uppercut, swirling around and raking his extended claws across Tyson’s back. He clutched his hand to his chest, trying to stop the flow of blood. Trevor felt lightheaded but knew if he gave in to the dizzying waves, Tyson would kill him. Before he could take Tyson out, he and two of the men fled. Trevor couldn’t stand anymore. He fell to his knees, holding on to consciousness the best he could while his blood flowed freely. “Trevor!” Knox shouted as he burst through the restaurant door and then shifted, attacking the two shifters that stood around the two dead vampires. “No,” Trevor cried out weakly, trying to stop Knox from attacking the wolves that had helped him. Sammy ran out, falling to his knees next to Trevor. “They didn’t harm me,” he wheezed. “Knox, stop!” Sammy shouted. “They helped him.” Knox backed off and ran to Trevor and Sammy. He shifted back to human form. “What do we do?” “Blood.” Trevor grunted. Knox sliced his wrist once more and fed Trevor. He felt all eyes on him, but the need to heal was too great. Trevor drank deeply, Sammy holding onto him. Trevor laced an arm around his small mate. He licked the wound once he felt his chest closing and mending. The other two shifters stood there with their mouths hanging open, gawking at Trevor.

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“I need to get both of you home.” Knox picked Trevor up and laid him in the back seat of his car. “Get in, Sammy.” Trevor handed his mate the keys, and Knox pulled from the back lot, not giving the other two wolves a second glance. **** Sammy held tight to Knox’s hand as they entered the wolf’s large home. He glanced over at Trevor, still unsure if his mate was going to be okay. Sammy had never been more scared in his life than when he saw Trevor on the ground and his shirt covered in blood. Curious eyes followed them through the halls and down to an office. Sammy moved closer to Trevor when he saw the same tall man from the ceremony. “Zeus, this is my other mate, Trevor.” Trevor bowed. Sammy had no clue what the protocol for shapeshifting creatures was, so he bowed, too. He didn’t remember having to do it when first meeting Zeus, but maybe no one wanted to tell him. Sammy didn’t want to take any chances. Trevor gently squeezed Sammy’s hand, and he was grateful for the small encouragement. “Welcome, gentleman.” Zeus smiled at Sammy, and he felt calmer for some reason. “Trevor has his old coven looking for him. I just wanted to let you know this and to let you know my mates will be staying with me.” “Of course, make yourselves at home.” Sammy could see Zeus wanted to say more. Maybe discuss the issue of Trevor’s coven, but it looked like he was going to do that after he and Trevor were out of ear shot. He held Knox’s hand once again as he was shown to the wolf’s bedroom. “Here’s where you’ll stay. But you can roam around anywhere inside the house.” Knox sat down on the bed, looking from Sammy to Trevor.

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“So, does that mean I can’t go to work?” Sammy was terrified of losing his job. It was all he had, and he wasn’t sure how understanding Theo would be. As if reading his mind, Knox said, “I’m going to talk with Theo. He’s pack as well, so he understands about mates. He won’t fire you.” Sammy took a seat on the rug, his brain taking a moment to process what Knox was telling him. Theo, a wolf? He’d never have guessed it. Sammy jumped when he heard a door slam down the hall. His nerves seemed to be on edge all of the sudden. Trevor took a seat next to him, but instead of sitting, he stretched out beside Sammy. “Don’t worry, Sammy, we don’t bite.” Sammy laughed. “Yes you do. At least you bit Trevor.” “True, but that was different.” Knox’s eyes settled on Trevor, and his cheeks gave off a slight tinge of pink. Sammy thought it was adorable. “You two can use some of my T-shirts to sleep in until I can get your things.” Knox looked at Trevor once more. “Where do you live? I’ll get some clothing for you.” “Check my trunk.” Sammy gasped. “Why didn’t you tell me you were sleeping in your car? How?” “I slept in the trunk during the day, not too comfortable, but it did the trick in a tight pinch.” Trevor shifted to an elbow and ran his hand over Sammy’s face. “Don’t worry about me, little darling. It’s nothing.” “But you were homeless. I feel so bad that you slept in a trunk.” Sammy was going to find out what happened to make Trevor leave his home, and everyone he knew. This wasn’t right, and it was exactly what happened to him. He knew more vampires were going to come after Trevor, and maybe they needed a good talking-to, and Sammy was the one to give it to them. ****

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Knox led them down to the kitchen. He knew Trevor didn’t eat food but he didn’t want him to feel left out. It was strange how protective Knox had become since mating the vampire. It was a drive inside of him to keep his mates safe. And he was really starting to like Trevor as well. He had depth to him that Knox never would have guessed at. His headache came back when Minsheng and Yasuko came into the kitchen. Once again Kamiko was nowhere to be found. “Which one vampire?” “Minsheng.” Knox said his name in a warning tone. “It’s okay.” Trevor chuckled. “That would be me.” “I see fangs?” Knox watched as Trevor pulled his top lip back, baring his fangs to Minsheng. The little shit wasn’t even afraid. “We have good dentist in town. Zeus take me once.” Trevor began to laugh, and Knox relaxed, going back to fixing Sammy his plate. “I’ve never heard that one before,” Trevor said once he stopped laughing. “You bite me, I bite back,” Minsheng warned. “Then I promise not to bite you.” Knox rolled his eyes. The conversation was becoming too weird for him. He stirred the chili Jasper had made and grabbed some crackers, setting the bowl in front of Sammy. “What would you like to drink?” “I’ll take a juice if you have one.” His small mate smiled at Knox, and he felt his heart beat a little faster. Sammy had the clearest blue eyes he had ever seen, and when he turned them on Knox, he was a goner. He pulled his attention away before he started to blush. He’d never blushed in his life until finding his mates. “Where’s Kamiko? Knox asked as he shoveled a spoonful of chili in his mouth.

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“Talking to man in closet again,” Minsheng answered. The spoon clattered to the table as Knox stood, racing to Kamiko’s room.

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Chapter Six Knox, Sully, and Torem searched Kamiko’s room as the small man sat on his bed watching them. The three Asian men had been here for months, and he really didn’t know Kamiko. The guy hardly came out of his bedroom. “Minsheng said there was a guy in your closet that you talked to,” Knox questioned him when they came up empty. “No, no man.” Kamiko shook his head. Knox knelt down in front of the little man. “If someone is bothering you, I’ll stop him. I promise.” After being kidnapped from Japan and being forced into prostitution, Knox would kill anyone that threatened the three, even Minsheng and his sharp tongue. “No man. No one bother me,” Kamiko repeated. He was so demure that Knox often forgot he was a man. The guy was so effeminate. “I’m going to take your word for it, but if anyone bothers you, let me know.” Kamiko stood and bowed. “I will.” The three left the room. Knox couldn’t shake the feeling that someone had been watching them the whole time. **** “They are gone,” Kamiko called into his closet as he opened it. He watched eyes of flame appear and then Takeo’s body soon followed. “Did they harm you?” Takeo asked.

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“No.” Kamiko blushed and sat back down on his carpet. “Now we finish our talk?” Takeo smiled and sat with him. “Now we finish.” **** “So, you really a blood sucker?” Trevor turned to see a man leaning against the wall with his arms crossed over his chest. “Are you really a dog?” he asked. The shifter chuckled. “Touché.” He pushed from the wall and extended his hand. “Name’s Rave.” “Trevor.” “Aside from Prince Christian, I’ve never talked with a vampire before.” Rave spoke as they walked down the hallway. It was almost dawn, but Trevor had become restless as Sammy and Knox slept. “You know of the prince?” “He comes here often along with Alpha Maverick Brac.” Trevor was surprised at the news. Prince Christian wasn’t known to travel outside of his club, The Manacle. It would be an honor if he ever got to meet him. “Thank you for talking with me. I have a feeling my presence here isn’t very welcomed.” “Nah, ignore these lug heads. Make yourself at home.” Rave grinned and then left Trevor to his wandering. He walked back to the bedroom to find Knox and Sammy cuddled together. Trevor sat on the carpet and wondered how his life had taken such a turn from a week ago. “You gonna sit down there all night?” Knox asked in the darkness. “Just thinking.” Trevor watched as Knox pulled away from Sammy and sat on the side of the bed. He studied Trevor for a moment before speaking. “It’s not you. It’s the whole vampire thing.” “That clears thing up,” Trevor joked.

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Knox chuckled. “That was a little vague, wasn’t it? I just don’t trust easily. Not after what I’ve been through.” “Do you think I’m evil?” Trevor couldn’t help but become nervous while he waited for Knox to answer his question. Those who weren’t in constant contact with vampires always assumed they were evil from Hollywood movies. Out to drain someone’s body of its fluid and convert them. The truth was, a person had to be born a vampire. Only the prince or an elder could make a vampire. “No.” He glanced down at Trevor. “Not you.” “Then why give me such a hard time?” Trevor didn’t want to be enemies with Knox. So how could Trevor diminish a stereotype that someone perceived him to be and nothing more? “I guess I lumped you in with all the rest of them.” “But you know that’s not fair to me?” Trevor watched as Knox moved from the bed and onto the floor with him. The shifter was gloriously naked, and Trevor became instantly hard. Knox moved over to him, crawling above him as Trevor’s back was slowly lowered to the carpet. Knox’s mouth was mere inches away, and Trevor desperately wanted to close the gap. “I know, and I’m sorry for the way I’ve treated you.” Knox swooped down and captured Trevor’s lips. He moaned and wrapped his legs around Knox’s large waist. Although the man was only two inches taller than his six-three height, his body was massive. Trevor found it such a turn-on. “You’re so beautiful,” Knox moaned into Trevor’s mouth. He pulled Trevor’s shirt from over his head, kissing his pale chest. Knox was the most incredible masculine sight he had ever beheld. Although Trevor was a man of power and strength, Knox made him feel safe and whole with his massive arms wrapped around him, cocooning him from the world. Something he desperately needed right now. “Take me,” Trevor pleaded.

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Knox pulled away and divested Trevor of all his clothing. Knox’s hazel eyes drank in Trevor’s body as Trevor lay there naked and exposed. Knox’s hands were everywhere, touching Trevor in places that set him afire. Knox skimmed his knuckles over Trevor’s cock, and he arched his back, wanting that hand to return. Trevor hissed when Knox took his manhood into his mouth. His knees fell to the sides as Knox took him down his throat. Trevor’s eyes blazed, the room turning crimson as Knox worked his throat muscles on Trevor’s cock. He could feel Knox’s tongue working the bundle of nerves under the crown. Trevor was lost in the sensation of euphoric pleasure. Never had a lover ever taken their time to make love to his body this way. It was always meaningless, cold, and detached. Trevor’s hands spanned over hard muscles. His fingers glided over soft hair as his head rolled back, gasping as Knox worked magic on him. He pulled at Knox’s shoulders, not wanting to come like this. He wanted his shifter buried inside of him when he came. “Fuck me.” His voice was hoarse. Knox pulled back and walked over to the bedside to grab the lube. Trevor watched tight ass muscles move as Knox approached the bed. His gums itched to sink into each well-muscled mound. When Knox turned, he salivated at the sheer size of his cock. Trevor had held it in his mouth, had felt it deep inside of him, but to see it jutting so proudly was like looking at a work of art. The head was red and swollen. Trickles of pre-cum leaked and glistened. His tongue ran over his lips for just one taste. Knox gave him a half smile, and Trevor was panting, lost in that sexual smile. “Ready?” “Hell yes.” Trevor lay back, spread his legs in invitation, and grabbed his cock as he stroked it for Knox. The shifter dropped down between his legs and lubed his fingers, inserting more than one. The pleasure-pain drove him close to the edge. “Just fuck me.”

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Knox hesitated and then nodded, lubing his cock and then spreading Trevor’s legs further apart as he pushed his large cock inside of Trevor’s body. His shaft throbbed as Knox held still, waiting for Trevor’s okay. “Do it.” Knox growled and pulled Trevor’s legs over his arms, pulling Trevor down and onto his lap. He clung to Knox as his mate moved sensually inside of him. It wasn’t a quick fuck, but a slow-paced love. Trevor almost wished it was quick and hard. This tender side confused him. Too many raw nerves were being exposed, and he feared that Knox would go back to rejecting him. Trevor’s heart wouldn’t withstand that. He was giving a side of himself that he had only given to Sammy. Knox had the power to break him down to nothing. Trevor moved with Knox, feeling his dick move in and out as Knox fucked him. He scraped his fangs over Knox’s skin, dying for another taste. “Go ahead,” Knox breathed heavily. Trevor sank his fangs into the skin right over Knox’s heart, drinking heavily as Knox thrust hard into him. “Fuck,” Knox cried as he came. He held Trevor tight to his chest, jetting into him. Trevor sealed the wound and roared his release, his nails biting into Knox’s back as he came. Knox gently lowered him, kissing him around his neck and jaw, his hands combing through Trevor’s hair. “Come on.” Knox picked him up and carried him to the bed, cuddling him to his chest as they fell asleep. **** Sammy woke to a whimpering sound. He waited until his eyes adjusted and then scanned the room. His eyes locked onto Knox, who was crying and wrestling with the sheets in his sleep. Sammy crawled over Trevor and laid across Knox’s chest, holding onto his mate with silent comfort as Knox battled his demons.

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Knox slowly began to settle, his arms coming up and wrapping around Sammy. He lay there listening to Knox’s heart, hearing it slow its pace. If only he could reach into Knox and dispel his demons. Sammy would do it in a heartbeat. “Is he okay?” Trevor asked from beside Sammy. “I don’t know. He’s settling down.” Sammy ran his hand over Knox’s chest, trying to soothe his mate even in his sleep. Trevor’s hand touched his, and Sammy closed his eyes at the contact. Connolly never wanted to cuddle or just hold him, and now he had two men willing to do it. Sometimes it became overwhelming. He was waiting for one or both to say “Gotcha” and walk away. Sammy held Knox tighter, praying that day never came. Trevor grinned when Sammy’s stomach growled and snarled. “Sounds like someone didn’t finish his chili.” “Not with Knox running out of the kitchen like his ass was on fire.” Sammy slid off of Knox and pulled his jeans on. “I’m going to see if there’s any left.” Trevor tossed the cover back. “I’ll go with you.” Once Trevor had his clothes on, they traveled the halls until they found the kitchen. Sammy dug through the fridge, disappointed that all the chili was gone, but he did find some meatloaf. He popped the container and took a whiff. It smelled all right. He tossed the plastic bowl into the microwave and took a seat at the table. “So what do you think Knox dreams about?” Trevor slumped in his chair, which Sammy didn’t think looked right for Trevor. The man was too regal, but not. Sammy was still trying to figure Trevor out. “I think he dreams about things best left in the dark. Don’t pry. It’ll only make him push away from us.” “I just can’t help feeling like I need to help him, like I should be doing something.” The microwave beeped, and Sammy got up to get his food. He opened and closed drawers until he found a fork. Once he was seated back at the table, he picked the conversation back up.

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“Is there anything we can do?” he asked as he took a bite of the meatloaf. “Just be there for him.” Trevor nudged Sammy’s bowl back and forth as he ate, staring at the meat. “Can you eat food?” It was a valid question, and it made him realize how little he knew about Trevor. “If I had to, for pretense purposes, although I would become really sick later as my body regurgitated it.” “Ew, thanks for the image.” But it wasn’t enough to make Sammy stop eating. He was starving. He sat there and chewed as he thought about what Trevor said. “Are you sure we can’t help him?” Trevor sighed and entwined his fingers, laying them on his stomach. “He’s the one that has to face his past.” Sammy didn’t like it one bit, just like he couldn’t stand the idea of Trevor’s own people trying to kill him. He picked his glass of milk up and took a long swallow, his throat feeling dry and constricted. A lump was forming at the thought of either of them hurting or being hurt. “Is the meatloaf that good?” Trevor teased, apparently sensing Sammy’s saddened mood. He grinned and finished eating. The fact that Trevor had the ability to bring him out of his sour mood made him feel closer to him. “It was fantastic.” He got up and crossed the kitchen, setting his bowl in the sink and rinsing it out. Sammy placed the rinsed dishes in the dishwasher and walked back over to Trevor, bending at the waist and kissing him. “Mmm, you taste delicious, just a hint of basil.” Sammy chuckled and stood, heading for the door. “Come on, I want to check on Knox.” Trevor followed him out as they made their way back to their room. Sammy saw one of the soldiers watching him from down the hall and wanted to shout for him to go away. Just because Trevor was a vampire, it didn’t make him a freak.

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They both tossed their clothes to the floor and climbed back into bed, Sammy once again draping his body over Knox’s. He propped his chin on his hand, tracing the tattoo on Knox’s neck with his finger. “What do you think this is? I’ve seen it on the men Knox introduced as pack.” “It’s a sign of slavery,” Knox answered although his eyes were still closed. Sammy didn’t say anything, waiting for Knox to finish, and he did. “When pack saw it, they knew that we belonged to Jackson. It was a way the Alpha instilled fear into the pack that lived around here.” Sammy laid his cheek on Knox’s chest, feeling the threat of tears in his eyes. “What were you two up to?” Knox asked as he rubbed his hand over Sammy’s back. “I was hungry.” Sammy moved around like a cat trying to get comfortable before settling down and then felt himself dozing off with a full belly and a steady heartbeat under his ear. **** Knox watched the construction crew hard at work. Zeus had asked a few of the soldiers to check on the construction site, just to make sure everything was running smoothly. He’d left Sammy and Trevor in his bedroom, making sure the curtains were closed tight. Knox had stood there for a moment and watched the two sleep. The instinct to wrap the room in titanium steel to keep any and all out made it hard for him to leave this morning. Knox noticed Greyson watching him, one of his fellow soldiers. The guy’s eyes were hateful, and a slight pull at his lip told Knox he wasn’t too happy with him. None of the soldiers trusted Greyson. The wolf always seemed to trail behind Jackson instead of resisting his commands.

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Quinn caught Knox’s attention, waving and smiling as he jogged over to him. “So, what do you think?” He waved his hands dramatically at the structure. “It’s a concrete slab with a frame built around it,” he teased, knowing Quinn was looking for approval. “Duh, I know that. Are you guys housing an army? It’s huge.” Knox laughed. “Something like that.” “Oh crap.” Quinn took off just as Dino came around the corner, eyeing Quinn and watching him run back over to his work area. Dino waved at Knox and walked over to Quinn. He hoped the hyper man wasn’t going to get into trouble. Knox wanted to go back to Sammy and Trevor, but he had to meet with Hunter to make sure things were going well at the hardware store and then meet Sully at Theo’s to go over their plans on how to rid their town of unwanted undead. It tightened Knox’s chest to think of Trevor that way. He’d come to mean more to him than just being a vampire. Knox shook the thought from his head as he rode into town. Parking his truck in front of Hunter’s Hardware, Knox got out and slammed his truck door a little harder then he meant to. This whole vampire situation was getting to him. The bell above the door tinkled as he walked into the cool store. Hunter was behind the counter going over receipts. “Hey, Hunter.” The shifter looked up at Knox and smiled. “How’s it going, Knox?” “Zeus sent me. He wanted to make sure all was going well with construction and all.” Knox looked around to the semi-depleted stock and figured it must be going pretty well. “As you can see I need to order more. Tell the Alpha everything is fine.” “Well, let me know if you need anything.” Knox walked to the door, anxious to get his errands done and back to his men. “Will do. Thanks for stopping in.”

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Knox waved as he let himself out, deciding to walk around to Theo’s since it was such a bright and sunny day. A day Trevor would never enjoy. The thought stopped Knox in his tracks. How horrible it must be to never know the sun. A new respect filled him for his eternaldarkness mate. Shit must suck. He chuckled to himself as he kept walking, no pun intended. Knox began to wonder why he had let Trevor drink from him. The thought should have repulsed him, yet it didn’t. It had actually turned him on. And then when Trevor did it, holy fuck, he had shot his load quicker than shit. Admitting it only to himself, Knox wanted another try at that. He opened the door to loud chatter, televisions blaring sports, and low music in the background. He spotted Sully sitting at the bar and slid onto the stool next to him. Theo came over and took his order. Grey wolves weren’t like the Timber wolves over in Brac Village. Grey wolves could get drunk off their asses. That wasn’t Knox’s goal, but he did order bourbon. “So what’s the plan?” Sully asked as he finished off his drink and held his glass up. “A little early to get shitfaced, don’t you think?” “I’m cool.” Knox accepted the drink from Theo and thanked him. He took a sip and turned to Sully. “Whatever the plan, Trevor stays out of it.” Sully snorted and looked at Knox like he was crazy. “I don’t give a rat’s ass if Trevor is a vampire. He’s your mate. That’s all that matters to me.” He took a sip of his drink. “Thanks.” No soldier openly opposed Trevor being there, but Knox was on the defensive, waiting for one of them to say something smart so he could slam them on their head. Sully waved away his appreciation. “You found your mate, or should I say mates.” He chuckled. “That’s all that counts.”

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Knox leaned his elbows on the bar and slowly turned the tumbler around, thinking just how right Sully was. Instead of bitching and moaning about what Trevor was, he should be grateful. Some shifters went their whole lives without finding theirs, and to find two? He was damn lucky. Now if he could only stop the demons that haunted him even in his sleep. “Hey, fellas.” Toby and Jasper wandered over and took a seat. Knox rolled his eyes. All he needed right now were the Alpha’s mates here bugging him. “I see Zeus opened the cage door.” “Yeah, that’s how you got out.” Jasper flipped him off and ordered two Coronas. He slid one to Toby and kissed his mate. “Do you guys want to shoot pool or are you just running up your tab?” Jasper looked over at them. “I’ll play you, smart mouth.” Sully laughed. “It’s the only time I will be able to kick your ass without Zeus trying to relocate my organs.” “Don’t encourage him, Sully,” Knox warned. “Encourage him to do what?” Craig asked. Great, now Avanti’s mates wanted to torture him as well. “To think.” Craig chuckled as he ordered him and Jesse a Michelob. Knox wondered where the hell their mates were and why they were bugging him at Theo’s. “Gonna kick Jasper’s ass at pool. Wanna watch him cry like a girl?” Sully teased as he grabbed his drink and headed over to the pool table. “I’ll cry like a girl when you tell everyone you’re leaving,” Jasper shot back. “Now act like an adult and play nice or I’m going to stick you in that corner over there for time out. I’ve done it before to grown men, and I’ll do it again.” “If I lose, I’ll stand in the corner for twenty minutes, queeny,” Sully challenged.

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“The last person to call me queeny got…well, nothing, but don’t call me that, damn it.” “Yeah, don’t call him that or I’ll…make you a bad sandwich the next time you come into Harold’s,” Toby threatened. “Don’t hurt yourself, babe.” Jasper kissed Toby and set the table up. “This oughta be good.” Jesse laughed. Knox leaned against the wall. This should be good. Jasper ran around the house with Toby in tow acting queeny—to use Sully’s word—so this should knock him down a peg. Not that he had anything against the way Jasper acted. It would just be fun to see him get his ass kicked. Sully would own bragging rights. “Nine ball, baby, and I’m not talking about what swings between your legs.” Jasper pulled his arm back and broke, the crackling of the balls sounding loud in the tavern. Jasper and Sully played hard, each tearing the table up when it was their turn. Sully knocked his forehead into the wall when Jasper sunk the nine ball. “Fuck.” “You might as well stay where you are for nineteen more minutes, bud.” Jesse, Craig, and Toby laughed hysterically as Sully flipped Jasper off and turned to the corner. “Thought I was a pussy, didn’t you?” Jasper snickered at Sully. “Not even close, never saw one, never will.” Jasper, Toby, Craig, and Jesse all gave each other a high five and then took a seat at a booth, taunting Sully the whole time he stood there. “You’re just mean.” Knox laughed as he ordered another drink. “You really gonna let him suffer like that?” “He would if roles were reversed.” Jasper shrugged and drank his beer. “Fuck, I remember the house I used to live in was a dry zone from a mate being an alcoholic. Feels good to have a drink again. Not that I minded giving it up for him.”

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“You miss them?” Toby asked. “Sometimes, but I have you, baby, and my big, bad Alpha. I wouldn’t trade either of you for the world,” Jasper said. Knox thought of his mates and wanted to get home. He missed them now that he saw the other mates laughing and talking, kissing and cuddling. He bid his farewell and slapped Sully on his shoulder. “Guess you know now, don’t you.” “Fuck off,” Sully grumbled as he shoved his hands in his front pockets. **** Knox left Theo’s feeling a whole lot better. He was looking forward to crawling back into bed with his mates, if they were still sleeping. If not, he’d join in the fun. With a lighter feeling in his heart, Knox made his way back around to his truck. Not even the thought of Jackson could rob him of the new feeling swirling around inside of him when he thought of those two men in his bed. He wasn’t sure what love felt like, having been so long since he even experienced it as a child, but Knox hoped what he was feeling right now was close to it. He smiled to himself, and he even felt like humming. How corny was that? Knox held the grin all the way around the corner until he got to his truck. His truck that had four slashed tires.

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Chapter Seven Sammy giggled as Trevor pulled him close, kissing him down his neck. The sound was music to his ears. He wiggled his fingers over Sammy’s midsection, wanting to hear that sound again. Sammy rolled over with peals of laughter as Trevor tickled his sides. He chuckled when his mate began to snort. “Uncle,” Sammy cried. Trevor relented and began to run his fingers over Sammy’s hardened shaft instead. His mate moaned, grinding his cock into Trevor’s hand. “Hmm, someone sounds like they want something from me,” Trevor teased. “Don’t play coy, fuck me.” Trevor was shocked to hear such wanton words from Sammy, but they turned him on. He slid his hand under the pillow and grabbed the lube. Trevor turned his little mate over and squeezed slick down the crack of his ass. Damn if that little pink hole wasn’t smiling at him. Trevor caressed his fingers over Sammy’s puckered muscle, stretching him so he could fill him. He lined his cock up and pressed in, shivering at the tight grip. Trevor reached his hand up and ran his fingers through Sammy’s hair, gripping it tightly as he inched in even further. Sweat dripped down the side of Trevor’s face as he pulled back and then plunged in. Sammy pulled his legs further under him, his hands fisting the sheets as Trevor fucked his sweet hole. His gums itched to sink them into soft flesh. He knew Sammy would let him, so Trevor bent over his mate’s body, sinking them deep as he drank and fucked.

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“Oh god,” Sammy cried out, pushing his ass into Trevor’s pelvis. “Fuck me, now.” Trevor made an animalistic sound as he thrust deeper and harder into Sammy’s ass, chasing that high that only an orgasm could give. He reached under Sammy, palming his cock and jerking it with his strokes. When he released Sammy’s shoulder, his mate cried out, seed hitting the sheets and his hand. The tight muscle clamped down on Trevor’s cock, sending him spiraling over the edge and achieving that adrenaline high. “Hell,” Sammy panted under him as Trevor kissed him down his spine. “You liked?” Trevor asked before trailing his tongue back up his mate’s spine. “Me liked. I really, really liked,” Sammy said into the pillow. Trevor chuckled into his back, kissing his way back down his spine. He couldn’t seem to get enough of his salty and sweet skin. Trevor ran the tips of his fangs over his mate’s spine and then licked back down. “I think you’re trying to drain my body fluids through my cock.” Sammy giggled. Trevor kissed his back and then rolled to his side. “That would be interesting, now wouldn’t it?” He wiggled his brows. Sammy grinned. “For you maybe. I’d be laying here looking like a prune, my balls the size of peas.” Trevor pulled Sammy into his arms, tucking the man’s head under his chin. “We wouldn’t want that. They taste too good to go to waste.” Sammy sighed in contentment and was soon back to sleep. Trevor closed his eyes, thankful for not draining him the night they met. ****

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Zeus sat behind his desk listening to Knox and Sully. Had they lost their damn minds? “So let me get this straight. You want to dress Sully up as Trevor and use him for bait? Even in the dead of night, with no moonlight, and reading glasses on, he wouldn’t pass for Trevor.” “With a wig and other changes, it could work. All we need is for them to think he’s Trevor. Draw them out.” Knox sat forward, arguing his point. “Just a hint of it and we’ve got them.” Zeus stared over at Sully. “How much is he paying you for this, or is he blackmailing you?” “He’s my friend, and I’m sure he’d do it for me,” Sully defended. Zeus snorted. “I’d go above and beyond for any of you, but no one is putting a damn wig on me.” Knox and Sully burst out laughing. “No offense, but I’d pay to see you in one.” Sully laughed. Zeus flipped him off and sat back. “So when do you plan on implementing your harebrained scheme?” “Tonight.” Knox sobered and sat forward. “I want the threat to Trevor gone.” “Seems you changed your mind awfully quick about having a vampire as a mate.” Knox shrugged. “I found him. That’s all that matters. Keeping Sammy and Trevor safe is my first priority.” “Spoken like a true man.” Zeus hated the fact that these men were so twisted in the brain but was glad Knox finally came to terms with his vampire. It didn’t bother Zeus. As a matter of fact, he liked the diversity. “I’m sending Torem and Eagle to keep watch, just in case shit hits the fan.” “Thanks,” they said in unison. ****

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Knox jogged up the steps, finding his two sleepy heads still under the blanket. “Are you two going to sleep in all evening?” Sammy tossed the cover from his head and yawned. “What time is it?” “Seven.” “Holy crap, I’ve never slept the day away before.” He wiggled out of Trevor’s arms and ran to the bathroom. Knox watched his naked ass as it shot by. “God love streaking men.” He grinned. Knox sat on the bed, making it dip in and Trevor’s body roll slightly toward him. “You gonna wake up?” “Five more minutes, Mom,” he mumbled. Knox stretched out next to Trevor, running his hands through his mate’s hair. “I have to step out for a while tonight. Can you keep yourself and Sammy occupied while I’m gone?” An evil grin spread across Trevor’s face. “I’m sure I can think of wicked things to do to his body.” Knox rolled his eyes. “And after the five seconds of sex, then what are you going to do?” Trevor reached out and punched him in his arm. “I’ll have you know I can last longer than five seconds. I’ve lasted ten many times.” He laughed and pulled the blanket back over his head. “I can vouch for that.” Sammy came running out of the bathroom and dive-bombed onto the bed, Knox catching him. “Can you now?” Knox reached his hand down and ran it down the crease of Sammy’s ass, feeling the still-swollen hole and the slick that surrounded it. “I see you’ve been busy while I’ve been away.” Sammy moaned and pressed his ass onto Knox’s hand. “I was about to time him again. Wanna hold the stopwatch?” “Watch it, Knox. He’s a horndog.” Trevor threw the covers back and locked eyes with Knox. “He’ll say anything to get a hard cock in his ass.”

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Sammy reached over and slapped Trevor on his chest. “Will not.” The little man began to moan when Knox ran his fingers up and down his crease, pressing two in. His back bowed and his ass stuck high into the air. “See what I mean?” Trevor asked but was staring at Knox’s hand. He inserted a third finger, stretched it out a few times, and then stood, pushing his jeans to his knees. Knox pulled Sammy back, impaling him onto his cock. “Suck Trevor off.” Trevor scooted under Sammy, hissing when their mate took him into his mouth. Knox watched the wondrous sight as he thrust into his mate. It wasn’t going to take him long. Watching Sammy slob all over Trevor’s cock was too big a turn-on. Knox looked down between his legs to see Sammy’s hole stretched and swallowing his cock eagerly. The tingle began to spread up his spine. His balls drew tight as his orgasm approached. No matter how much he wanted this to last, there was no stopping it. Knox shouted, clinging to Sammy’s hips as he shot his seed into his mate’s ass. Trevor cried out next, soon followed by Sammy. He sat there a moment, trying to clear his head of the rush. Knox slid out of Sammy and walked to the bathroom, wetting a washcloth and giving himself a quick cleanup. “I have to go. Behave yourselves.” “Aye, Aye, Captain.” Trevor saluted him with his middle finger. “Smart-ass.” He kissed them both and then left to meet Sully downstairs. Sully wrinkled his nose when Knox approached. “You smell like sex.” “You’re just jealous.” Knox grinned and left Sully standing by the front door as he walked to his truck. “We need to get going if we’re going to buy the stuff we need.” “Yes, dear,” Sully grumbled and closed the door behind him. ****

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Sammy sat in the window seat staring out into the night. Knox had said he would be back in a few hours. That was five hours ago. He chewed his bottom lip as his eyes scanned the front yard and surrounding woods. In the short time he’d known Knox and Trevor, he had fallen in love with them. They gave him more acceptance and more security than Sammy had even growing up. He wasn’t sure what he would do if he lost either of them. His mates meant the world to him. Mates. The word still sounded strange when he said it. But he liked the word. It made it seem like their relationship was different from anything he’d ever had before. Well, it was considering who they were, but that’s not how he saw them. Trevor was this suave and debonair man that still had a kid inside of him dying to get out. And Knox was this brooding man that let a little of himself come out to play at a time. Sammy wanted that small show of who he used to be to come out all of the time. If there was only some way he could fix Knox. He knew he didn’t have a magic wand and that the healing process had to start with Knox himself. Sammy’s life growing up hadn’t been peaches and cream with a mom who worked two jobs and a dad who pretended life didn’t exist outside of his work shed, never having any time for their own son. All Sammy ever wanted was to be accepted and loved. Trevor and Knox gave him that, gave him more than he’d ever hoped to get out of life. It was crazy that it had to be paranormal creatures that supplied it, but Sammy knew they would do anything for him. He remembered the day Connolly tossed him out, telling Sammy he was too needy, too clingy, and way too boring. Sammy had been devastated.

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Thankfully the people in this town were kind and caring, except for that homophobe he ran into when first arriving, and gave him a chance. He’d always be indebted to Jesse and Craig, and even Theo. “Any sign of him yet?” Trevor asked as he sat next to Sammy. “No.” He worried something awful had happened. Sammy leaned back into Trevor’s comforting arms, wishing Knox would come home. **** Knox tried his best not to laugh at Sully in the black wig and slacks. There was no way a vampire would mistake him as one of theirs. Knox had grabbed one of Trevor’s shirts, hoping they would be fooled by the scent. Problem was, Sully was too damn big for it. Trevor was sleek and slim. Sully was built like a bull. The shifter kept pulling at the wig, crying that it itched. “Big baby, you can do it.” “Let me put it on your head and see how it makes you feel.” Sully huffed. “You better never bring this back up, and you owe me bigtime for this.” Knox threw his hands up in surrender. “I’ll never bring it up, and I am indebted to you.” He bowed and then began laughing. “Can I at least get a picture?” Sully growled and walked from the back parking lot. “Go away, I need to attract some vampires.” “Hey, he does not walk with a swish to his hips,” Knox yelled at Sully. “I’m acting, so I can play the role however I want.” Sully tossed the wig hair over his shoulder and made his wrist go limp. “I feel like a hooker.” He laughed as he walked down the street. “Asshole,” Knox mumbled as he took position on the side of the building. His mate was not feminine. Maybe he’d pay Sully back with

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a feminine wardrobe. The guy seemed to be enjoying his acting a little too much. Knox yawned after an hour and no show. His shoulder leaned into the brick wall as his eyes stayed focused on Sully pretending to be locked out of Trevor’s car. The humor had worn off of Sully’s charade, and Knox was ready to get home to his men. He shoved his hands into his front pockets and crossed his ankles as he scanned all around the front parking area. He hadn’t spotted Torem or Eagle, but if he had, then they wouldn’t be doing their jobs. They were supposed to be hidden from sight. “Just back up slowly and don’t make a sound, or Trevor and Sammy will pay for it.” Knox straightened. He did as he was told, walking slowly backward. The voice wasn’t familiar, so Knox didn’t know if they were telling the truth or not about his mates. He didn’t smell deception, but what he did scent was vampires. Which meant they hadn’t fallen for the bogus Trevor. Knox had to stall them until the other three wolves noticed he wasn’t where he was supposed to be. “Why are you so pressed to get your hand on Trevor?” The man laughed malevolently. “He challenged our leader and walked away. No one does that.” “Is that it? Is your leader so big on ego that he has to hunt someone down for an insult?” Knox growled when something solid hit the back of his head. “Don’t you dare talk about Michael that way.” His hair was jerked back, and Knox wanted to turn around and tear into the bastard. The only thing stopping him was not knowing if they really had his mates or not. Closing his eyes, Knox thought that he’d really like to know right now because this fucker was going to pay. “So what do you plan on doing with me now that you have me?”

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The cackle sent all his body hairs to standing. “I’m going to delay you while one of your own takes care of those two. And then we’re going to drain you.” Knox felt his chest tighten and his gut clench. So they didn’t have his mates, yet. With the swiftness of a shifter, Knox hooked his right foot around the vampire’s right ankle and pulled, taking the guy by surprise and knocking him off balance. Knox whirled around to see two more advancing on him while the one on the ground started getting to his feet. He shifted into his wolf form, baring his teeth and snapping at them. The only thing on his mind was getting to his mates. Knox had a feeling he knew who the traitor was. Now all he had to do was get to him. Within seconds Knox found himself fighting for his life. All three vampires were attacking him, biting into his flesh, and trying their best to take him down. He felt the rumbling in his chest, and then that familiar fog enveloped his brain. The beast Jackson tried to turn him into had emerged, and Knox unleashed it on the three vampires who were trying to take his life and kill his mates. Years from now he still wouldn’t remember what had taken place. The only thing that would be burned into his memory of tonight’s events would be the horror on the vampire’s faces and the feeling of repulsion as the monster took over. **** Sammy woke from his sleep and looked around the room. It was still dark out, and he was still folded in Trevor’s arms by the window. What had awakened him? He felt eyes watching him, but Sammy didn’t see anyone in the room. His fingers clenched into Trevor’s shirt as that feeling grew stronger. He tried to adjust his eyes to the darkened interior, but with the moon only being a sliver, there wasn’t much light coming in to work

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with. His eyes darted to a corner in the room where it seemed darkest, and Sammy swore he saw an outline. The shadow moved, and Sammy’s heart beat out of his chest. Trevor stirred and pulled Sammy closer to his body. Fear froze him in place. He wasn’t able to move, wake Trevor, or even scream. “You know I’m here, don’t you?” The voice was low and threatening. Sammy had never watched a scary movie in his life, and this was why. He was ready to pee his pants. The only thing he could do was nod. “Move away from the vampire slowly, and I won’t harm you.” First of all, there was no way on god’s green earth he was trusting the shadow at his word. Secondly, he would rather be harmed than Trevor. What kind of a mate did the shadow think he was? Did it think he would sacrifice the man he fell in love with to save his own ass? Not likely. Sammy shook his head and wrapped his arms tightly around Trevor. A finger caressed his side, and he knew Trevor was awake. Thank heavens. He wanted to yell at Trevor to eat the son of a bitch, but his voice was still frozen in fear. “Very well, I guess I’ll have to kill you both, no sweat off my balls.” “Mine either.” Trevor hissed and threw Sammy to the floor as he leapt. Sammy hit the floor and crab-crawled backward. His eyes weren’t fully adjusted, but he could see well enough to make out Trevor, and he was fighting a wolf! “Trevor!” Sammy cried out. He clawed at the carpet, trying his best to get closer. The two were tearing the room apart. Sammy was shocked at how well Trevor was holding his own. The vampire wasn’t a joke!

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Sammy tried to crawl around the ruins to get to the door. A paw smashed his hand into the rug. Sammy pulled it back and yelled at the throbbing pain. Stupid dog. Sammy crawled under a table when the two tumbled toward him. Where the hell was help? They had to hear all this noise. Sammy covered his head when the table was knocked over and pieces of it broke, falling onto his head. He once again crawled away, back toward the window where it looked to be safe. He screamed and kicked when hands grabbed him around the waist and he was hauled off of the floor. It was Zeus. “Take him out of here.” “No, I won’t leave Trevor!” Sammy screamed and reached for his mate. Trevor grabbed Sammy, pulling him to his chest as other soldiers held the wolf that had attacked them down. Sammy clung to his mate, feeling tears stinging his eyes. “What the hell, Greyson? Have you lost your mind?” Zeus roared at him. Before the Alpha could get an answer, a large grey wolf leapt into the room. Trevor turned Sammy into the wall, and all he heard was fighting and then silence. “I have you, little darling.” Trevor ran his hand over Sammy’s hair and kissed his temple. His whole body shook from the ordeal. He knew he didn’t want to look, and something deep inside of him told his brain that the wolf who just entered was Knox. “Get his carcass out of here,” Zeus ordered. Sammy shook harder with the knowledge that Knox had killed the other shifter. He wasn’t sure what in the hell was going on, but he was glad to know both of his mates were okay. “Did he hurt him?” Sammy heard Knox ask. “No, just scared him pretty bad.”

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Sammy whimpered when he felt Knox’s lips at his temple. “They won’t be bothering either of you anymore, baby.” Sammy nodded his head, clinging to Trevor like a lifeline in this crazy mess. He nuzzled into Trevor’s neck, needing the comforting scent of his mate. The shower turned on, and Sammy knew Knox was washing whatever happened from his body. Trevor kept Sammy’s face from the door, sitting him back in the window as he rocked him and hummed. The tears ran down his cheeks when Knox came into the bedroom, and the relief he felt at seeing both of them safe washed over him. No matter what happened, Sammy would never regret being with them.

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Chapter Eight “Will you stop?” Sammy batted Knox’s hand away. “I promised Trevor I would take pictures of the construction site, and I can’t do that with your octopus hands all over me.” Knox chuckled as he kissed Sammy’s neck. “I can’t help it. Your skin is so addictive.” “Hey, Knox.” Sammy watched a young man with golden skin and a brilliant smile wave his hand at Knox and then come running. “Trevor and I don’t have anything to worry about, do we?” Sammy growled. Knox stared down at him, slacked-jawed. “What? A young, handsome man looks excited to see you and I’m not supposed to be jealous?” Sammy closed Knox’s mouth. “You just look sexy as hell when the green-eyed monster is coming out of you.” Knox chuckled. “Flatterer.” “Is it working?” Knox held his midsection as Sammy punched at it. The young man came to a halt and stared between the two. Knox chuckled. “Quinn, this is my boyfriend, Sammy.” Quinn wiped his hands on the front of his jeans and shoved one at Sammy. “Nice to meet you.” “You, too.” Sammy shook his hand. “It’s amazing how much you’ve gotten done.” Quinn beamed at Sammy, and he saw how Knox looked at the guy, an excited puppy ready to please.

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Just as long as he wasn’t too excited to please Knox. The two talked as Sammy snapped his pictures. The rays of sunlight that broke through the canopy of trees and cast shadows here and there over the structure were breathtaking. Sammy wished Trevor could see it for himself instead of having to look at pictures. “Oh crap.” Sammy turned to see Quinn take off and an angrylooking man stomp after him. “That’s Dino, the foreman.” Knox smiled and then grabbed Sammy around his waist. “You done taking pictures?” “I guess. No matter how many I take, it won’t bring the full scope of this place to Trevor.” Sammy tucked his camera away and held onto Knox’s arms. He watched the men work and was reminded of his own job. Although Knox and Trevor told him he didn’t have to work anymore, Sammy decided to stay at Theo’s. Yeah, he’d lost his mind with that decision. But besides the unwanted hands, and the hectic atmosphere of the place, Theo was a nice boss, and he did get to meet the town’s people. Most were nice, and knowing both your men would financially catch you if you fell took a lot of the pressure off. Sammy wasn’t one to live off of someone else. He was his own person and needed to work to feel his own self-worth. Knox and Trevor didn’t like it one bit, but Sammy had convinced them that having sex all day with the two was not an occupation he was going to use on a resume. Theo had him scheduled to come in this afternoon and work until closing. Sammy had cabin fever and couldn’t wait to get back to work. But until this afternoon… “Can we get back to Trevor?” “Horndog.” Knox kissed his temple and led him to the truck. He climbed in and buckled his seat belt, watching his mate talk to the man he called Dino for a moment. “You look good enough to eat,” Sammy whispered to himself as he licked his lips at Knox. As if his mate could hear him, he turned and grinned. Feeling a blush creep over his face, Sammy pulled out

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his camera and began to click a few more pictures while he waited to take Knox’s attention off of him. **** Trevor came awake to the sound of his mates entering their bedroom. He stretched and yawned, knowing it wasn’t nightfall yet, his engrained senses alerting him to this fact. He reached down and scratched his stomach, slowly blinking open his eyes. Sammy grinned widely at him and hopped onto to the bed. “Did you sleep well?” Trevor watched as his small mate toed his sneakers off and climbed onto the bed, pulling his shirt over his head and unsnapping the top button of jeans. Trevor’s eyes zeroed in on one of the two small brown discs, and his mouth watered for a taste. “I slept enough.” He pulled Sammy over to him and sucked in one of his nipples as he rolled the other one between his thumb and index finger. Sammy moaned and moved around until he was sitting in Trevor’s naked lap. His erection rubbed against the denim and gave him friction to pleasure himself on. Trevor licked the nipple then looked at Sammy. “Take them off.” Sammy stood on the bed, Trevor tilting his head back as he watched his mate do a slow and seductive striptease for him. Trevor jackknifed and knocked Sammy to his back as he pulled the jeans the rest of the way off. He burrowed his face in Sammy’s groin, inhaling his mate’s musky scent. “Lick my secret spot,” Sammy moaned. Trevor chuckled at his use of words and flicked his tongue out to taste his mate’s wrinkled hole. “I’m starved for you.” Trevor took Sammy’s sac into his mouth, bathing his balls with his tongue. Sammy’s knees fell open, and his hand began to massage his cock while they locked eyes with each other. His little mate had a very sensual look on his face as Trevor laved at his balls. Sammy’s lips parted and his eyes rolled back when Trevor inserted a finger.

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He licked his way up until he reached Sammy’s fingers wrapped around his cock and licked each one. Sammy lifted his index finger and fed it to Trevor. “Mmm, suck me.” Sammy begged. He pushed his cock toward Trevor’s mouth with glistening drops of pre-cum inviting him to take a taste. Trevor opened his mouth and took the purple head in. His tongue drew the clear liquid out, and then he sucked the crown rapidly. “Don’t make me come yet,” Sammy whined as his back arched. Trevor pulled back, thrusting a second finger in as he swirled his tongue up and down the length of Sammy’s shaft, feeling every thick vein that stood out. Sammy pushed his cock lower, and Trevor lowered his mouth until pubic hair tickled his nose. Trevor’s knees spread apart when he felt wet fingers enter him. Knox had joined them. Trevor placed his hand on Sammy’s stomach, stilling his small mate when Sammy began to lift from the bed. He could feel the stomach muscles rippling beneath his palm. The bed dipped, and Trevor’s own balls were being massaged and then licked. Trevor’s eyes rolled as he sucked Sammy’s cock slowly. He wasn’t going to have his mate’s seed down his throat. He wanted to be buried deep within Sammy when his mate came. Knox’s fingers scissored and swept over his prostate, and Trevor moaned as his cock jerked. His mouth came off of Sammy’s cock. “Squeeze them,” he begged. If they were going to be together for a very long time, his mates needed to know his kinks. He felt Knox applying pressure to his balls. “Harder.” He nearly came when Knox did as he asked. Trevor raised his ass in offering, his body one electrical current as Knox’s fingers thrust in and out of him, his balls held in a vise grip. He kissed Sammy’s crown and then pulled his smaller mate under him.

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Sammy pulled his legs back to his chest, and Trevor sank deep within the blissful channel. His eyes closed as he panted, fighting not to come. Knox released him and then pushed him over Sammy, sliding his cock up and down Trevor’s crease in a torturous attempt to tease him. A sound escaped his lips when the head popped past his entrance. It was good, so good. Trevor would be the middle man for the rest of his days if the dual sensation always felt this all-encompassing. Knox’s hands explored Trevor’s back and shoulders as they established a rhythm, the cock in his ass working every nerve ending he had back there. Trevor fell to his arms, kissing Sammy deeply as Knox worked his cock with expertise. Knox pulled at Trevor’s hair, and he felt his cock become further engorged. The tingle and pain running over his scalp and down his spine made him gasp. Knox seemed to be finding all his kinks tonight. Trevor couldn’t resist anymore. He sank his fangs into the soft flesh, drinking from Sammy as he shouted and writhed below him as he came. He slammed into Sammy, the taste more than he could stand. Trevor thought for a moment he wouldn’t be able to stop. The thick, sweet blood was making him lose his mind. Knox sank his canines into Trevor’s neck and brought him out of his bloodlust. It reined him in like nothing else could and made him explode inside of Sammy’s tight channel. Knox rode him hard, whether for pleasure or a means to punish Trevor for his lack of control, he wasn’t sure, but Trevor took it and savored it. He held onto Sammy as Knox began an assault on his ass, burying his cock deeply on the last thrust and roaring his release. He still held Trevor locked in place with his powerful jaws, thrusting hard and fast. Knox’s movements began to slow, and his teeth released his shoulder, licking at the wound. Knox slid his arms under Sammy and rested his cheek on Trevor’s back. His cock softened but was still buried deep.

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“Are you okay?” Knox asked Trevor. “Yeah, just got too caught up in the moment.” Trevor felt terrible. What if Knox hadn’t pulled him free of the fog surrounding his mind and he drained Sammy? He would never be able to forgive himself. Trevor cupped Sammy’s face, a sated smile on his small mate’s face. “I’m sorry.” Sammy shook his head. “It’s okay.” Trevor knew Sammy was still riding his orgasm high and would forgive him anything at the moment. He would apologize again once Sammy came down. **** Zeus swung Kamiko’s door open to find an extremely lethallooking man crouched in front of the young Asian man. He stepped into the room and pulled himself up to his full height. “Who are you?” He had heard from Minsheng that a man in the closet visited Kamiko. Minsheng had been worried the man was not good. The stranger stayed in his crouch, his stance resembling protectiveness for Kamiko. “I am Takeo, Demon Warrior for Panahasi.” Zeus took in the demon’s features. His height was just a little shorter than his, but there was a deadly aurora about Takeo that rose Zeus’s hackles. “And what do you want with Kamiko?” “He is my friend. I am here to guide him through his troubles and keep him safe from any more harm.” The warrior’s eyes followed Zeus, but not one muscle moved. Zeus walked around the room until he was able to see Kamiko kneeling behind Takeo. “Are you safe, Kamiko?” The small man gave a half bow from where he knelt. “I am, Zeus.” Zeus eyed Takeo. “I cannot allow you to visit him again until I meet your leader. You do have a leader, I presume?”

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Takeo’s head gave a slight nod, watching Zeus closely. “Then please, ask him to meet with me before you come back to Kamiko.” The warrior stood and looked back at the young man kneeling on the floor. Zeus didn’t miss the softening of the warrior’s features when his eyes rested on Kamiko. “I’ll be right back, little flower.” Kamiko smiled up at him and nodded. Zeus damn near swallowed his tongue when the warrior disappeared into the shadows of the room. He immediately went to Kamiko and knelt down in front of him. “Has he harmed you?” Kamiko shook his head vehemently. “He has only shown great kindness and has helped me through my darkest hours.” Zeus didn’t like a stranger in anyone’s room, but he liked it even less that is was the room of one of the three men who had been traumatized. He wouldn’t deny the bond he witnessed between the two, something he couldn’t take away from Kamiko when he needed it the most. But meeting with the leader would give him a better insight. “You rang?” Zeus stood, standing in front of the small man when two sets of eyes on fire appeared, and then Takeo along with a much larger man walked out of the darkness. “And you are?” “I am Panahasi, leader of the Demon Warriors. Takeo tells me you require my presence.” The demon looked annoyed. Too fucking bad. “I am Zeus, Alpha to the Eastern pack. I want to know why this man has been visiting one of my pack members.” He nodded toward Takeo. Panahasi looked at Takeo and then at Zeus. Ah, so the leader had no clue. Interesting.

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“I was unaware of his visits, but I can assure you he means the young man no harm.” Panahasi glanced down at Kamiko still kneeling on the floor, a gentle smile spread across his face. Zeus had no fucking idea what to make of all of this. He had a feeling that if he forbade Takeo to return, the warrior would ignore it. There was something deeper going on between the two, and if Zeus had to guess, they were mates. His one and only concern was for Kamiko’s safety. Never again would he allow any of the men to be hurt. “How do I know this?” Zeus asked. “You don’t. But if you wish, I could take you to my realm and show you what it is we do.” Jasper must have laced those brownies with something. There was no way he was standing here talking to two demons. Against his better judgment, Zeus nodded. “But first I will inform my mates what is going on.” “Of course, but we do ask that it does not go beyond that.” Panahasi watched Zeus closely. “Believe me, there are secrets within my home that will stay that way. What happens in the pack stays in the pack.” Even though he met frequently with Maverick and Christian, he never divulged what went on within his own pack. It was none of their damn business. Zeus had made that very clear to Jason before he sent him to live with the Timber wolves, and so far the shifter had kept his word. “I’ll go get them, and then you can show me.” “No need.” Zeus turned to see Jasper and Toby standing in the doorway. Toby stared open-mouthed at the two demons while Jasper grinned. “This is so cool.” Zeus rolled his eyes. Leave it to Jasper to think that. ****

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Knox woke with a start. Another nightmare had brought him out of his sleep. They were getting less frequent, though, and he didn’t wake up fighting and shouting anymore. He felt the weight on his chest and brought his arms up to circle around Sammy. His smaller mate was draped across his chest every night, telling Knox that it helped him to sleep better. He would always appreciate Sammy’s protectiveness. Trevor was curled in at his side, one hand over Knox’s chest, tucked in between Knox and Sammy. It still amazed him how much his mates cared for him. He ran his hands through Sammy’s hair, hating the fact that his smallest mate had worked all evening. He and Trevor had tried to talk Sammy out of working, Knox even tried to demand it, but Sammy had flipped him off and got ready anyway. Knox had been at a loss of what to do about that, so they sat at the bar and watched Sammy all night. After teaching the first guy a lesson, everyone else kept their hands on the table in plain view, no one attempting to pinch a damn thing. “You’re up.” Trevor scooted up and kissed Knox. He still was in awe of this vampire. Trevor had the skills to protect himself, had the air of adulthood around him, but there was a part of him that only he and Sammy saw that wanted to be loved and playful. Didn’t everyone? “Morning, babe.” Knox kissed Trevor and then laid his head back down. “Or should I say good afternoon. It seems Sammy and I are starting to acclimate to your time.” Trevor grinned up at him. “Good, it means I won’t have to molest you in your sleep.” He chuckled. Knox held onto Sammy as he stretched and yawned. A small pool of drool was left on his chest. “I think I’m going to start laying a towel down before he lays on me.”

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Sammy slapped his chest and slid off of him, padding to the bathroom while rubbing his eyes and scratching his balls. The woody he was sporting made Knox groan. Trevor grabbed the corner of the sheet and cleaned Knox’s chest off. “Or a drool bib.” Knox grabbed Trevor and pulled him over his chest. “How about we go for a drive since Sammy isn’t on schedule tonight?” “Sounds good.” Trevor pulled off of Knox and headed to the bathroom. Knox rolled to his side and sat up, stretching and following after his men. After a hot shower and a playful round of sex, the three came downstairs. “Heading out?” Taz asked as they passed the living room. “Going for a ride.” Knox held the door open as Sammy and Trevor walked out. “Do you want to take my truck or Trevor’s car?” Knox looked at Trevor’s classic red Mustang and felt the car under his palms already. “Do you want to drive?” Trevor dangled the keys in front of him. Knox grinned and grabbed them. “Hell yeah.” Knox held the seat back as Sammy climbed in, smacking his ass when it rose in the air. “Hey, no spankings outside of sex.” He rubbed his rear end. Knox was surprised at Sammy’s words. Fuck, he was learning all kinds of things his mates liked during sex. He’d have to remember that when they got back. The image of Sammy laid out across his legs while spanking that naked ass almost made Knox grab his two mates and run back upstairs. “Later.” Trevor winked and then slid into the passenger side. Knox growled and got in, starting the car and listening to it purr. He loved Craig’s GTO, but the Mustang was sweet as fuck. He drove from the house a little faster than he should, feeling the power of the car running through his veins. He was a guy. Cars and sports were his

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favorite pastime, well, before Sammy and Trevor came along. Now he had a different favorite pastime. “Where to, gentlemen?” Knox asked as he turned onto Route 14. He opened up on the road and hoped Jesse wasn’t sitting somewhere making out with Avanti and Craig and caught them. Trevor turned the music on, and Knox knew the night was theirs. He wanted to head into the city but feared running into more of Trevor’s coven. Christian’s coven wasn’t where Trevor was from, but with his own coven popping up, Knox didn’t want to chance it. They danced to the music in their seats, double-dog dared each other to do stupid shit, and laughed the night away. By the time Knox pulled into the drive, they were amped up. “Want to go for a walk?” Knox needed to run, but wouldn’t leave his mates, so a walk would have to do. “Go run, I’ll watch over Sammy.” His mate was starting to read him like a book. “You sure?” “Yes.” “I won’t go far. Yell if you need me.” Knox kissed each man and then shifted, running through the forest with the feel of the earth beneath his paws. Aside from sex, this was the next best thing. **** Sammy held Trevor’s hand as they slowly walked the earthen path. He felt like two lovers out on a stroll. His eyes glanced over at Trevor, wondering how he’d gotten so lucky with such a sexy and kind, thoughtful and caring mate. He was still afraid he’d wake up and find out this had all been a dream and be in his apartment above the tavern. “Did you enjoy going back to work, little darling?” Sammy no longer took offense to the endearment. He cherished it now. “It got me out of the house, and I really like what I do, now that

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hands no longer pinch my bottom and I don’t have to worry about paying bills.” Trevor growled. “No one touches that little tush but me and Knox.” Sammy giggled at his possessiveness. He loved it. “What if I want to touch it?” he teased. “You’re going to make me take you right here if you keep giving me those images.” “I’m touching it, I’m touching it, I’m touching it.” Sammy poked at his own butt. Trevor twirled Sammy around until his back was against a tree and Trevor’s leg was between his. “I warned you, little darling.” Sammy ground his balls into Trevor’s leg, pulling on his mate to kiss him. When the kiss broke, Sammy looked up into his midnightblack eyes, seeing such love there that he nearly cried. “I love you, Trevor.” Trevor closed his eyes as his body shivered. “I’ve waited my entire life to hear those words, little darling. I love you as well.” Sammy stilled when he heard crying. It wasn’t coming from him or Trevor. “Do you hear that?” he whispered. Trevor lowered Sammy and placed him behind his back.

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Chapter Nine Sammy followed Trevor slowly as they walked toward the noise. It probably would have been smarter to go the other way, but the crying sounded so heartbroken that neither of them could walk away. They stopped when they came upon one of the soldiers sitting by a pond, his knees to his chest as he wept. Sammy wanted to reach out to him, to rid him of his pain. Knox appeared at their side and pulled them quietly away. When they were out of earshot, Sammy looked up at his mate. “Who was that?” “Bald Eagle, never trespass on his time at the pond,” Knox gently warned. “It’s a place we soldiers go to when we need solace.” “I promise.” Sammy hugged both of his men. That saddened feeling Eagle had given off was still with him. “Come on, let’s head upstairs.” Sammy and Trevor followed Knox into the house and upstairs to their bedroom. **** Trevor looked through the pictures Sammy had taken for him at the construction site. A part of him yearned to know what it would be like to feel the sun on his face. He smiled when the next picture was a close-up of Knox’s ass. His little horndog mate. He knew it was Knox’s. He’d know that ass anywhere. Trevor clicked through more of Knox’s muscles, his crotch, and even his boots. What the hell was Sammy doing?

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The structure looked to be coming along. He clicked through pictures of the workers and the shadows playing across the house. Trevor sighed. He was being teased by all that sunlight. His thumb pressed the button and the next one made his blood run cold. He slid from the bed and walked across the room, studying the man’s face. It was a face he had seen many times at his coven talking to Michael and Tyson. Trevor walked quickly back to the bed and tapped Knox on his arm, trying to wake the shifter. He jumped back when a clawed hand swiped at him. “You really need to work on that,” Trevor mumbled. He slapped Knox’s arm again. His mate’s eyes popped open and stared at him. Now that was just a creepy-ass sight. He turned the camera around to show the picture to Knox. “Who is he?” Knox wiped his eyes and took the camera. His other hand wrapped around Sammy to make sure he didn’t fall off as he sat up a little. “He’s one of the deputies. I don’t know his name, wasn’t a requirement that I memorize it.” “Who would know?’” “Jesse or Craig, why?” Trevor bit his thumbnail as he paced. “That man has been at my coven talking to my leader, or should I say ex-leader.” Knox’s brows pulled together as he took a closer look at the image. “Why would he be visiting vampires?” Trevor threw his hands up into the air. “Hell if I know, I wasn’t privy to their meetings.” Knox slid Sammy carefully from his chest and tucked the blankets around him. Trevor drooled at all that exposed skin and that gloriously beautiful flaccid cock. Even in a dormant stage it was breathtaking. He almost forgot what they were talking about. “I’ll go find Jesse or Craig and find out who he is.” “After you cover my goodies.” Trevor pointed to Knox’s bare ass. “Oh yeah.” He chuckled and grabbed his jeans, sliding them on.

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“Snap that top button and put a shirt on. I don’t want them to even see your sexy-as-sin toes.” Knox looked down at his feet. “You think they’re sexy?” “Honey, every last square inch on you is sexy.” Trevor tossed a shirt at him and grabbed a pair of socks. “Put them on.” Knox grinned from ear to ear. “Yes, sir.” Trevor shivered at the submissive tone, even though Knox was anything but. He briefly wondered if Knox would let him top. Stop thinking about sex. Trevor closed the door behind him and walked with Knox down to another bedroom. He couldn’t figure out why a cop from Pride Pack Valley would travel hours to meet with a vampire coven. It just didn’t make sense to him. What could they possibly have to talk about except the deputy becoming their next meal? Michael wasn’t known for his social skills except to his race, definitely not a human. The man was everything a B-rated movie portrayed a bad vampire to be. “Can you tell me who this is?” Trevor looked up to see a very handsome man standing in the doorway and an equally hot one behind him. The one Knox was speaking with was a shifter, Trevor could scent that, but the one behind him was human. “That’s Deputy Fife.” A burst of laughter left Trevor. “Sorry.” He held up his hand. The guy grinned. “I have a hard time not laughing every time I say his name, too. Hi, I’m Jesse. We met on the side of the road, but my mate was too busy being a caveman for proper introductions.” Trevor shook his hand. “Trevor.” “So you’re the resident vampire?” Jesse looked him over. “Don’t seem so scary to me.” “Thanks, I think.” “Hi, I’m Craig.” The smaller one shook his hand and beamed up at him.

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“Nice to meet you.” Knox cupped Trevor in the back of his head. “Stop flirting before I get ugly.” Trevor chuckled and released Craig’s hand. “Why would you have a picture of my deputy?” Jesse asked Knox. “Sammy actually took them of the construction site, and Trevor was looking them over when he recognized the face.” “I want him brought here.” They all turned to see Zeus coming down the hallway. “Are you all right?” Knox asked the Alpha. Trevor agreed with the question. The man looked shook up. “I’m fine, had the ride of my life. Now bring him here.” Zeus said the last part low and menacingly. “Yes, Alpha.” Knox turned and grabbed Trevor’s hand, leading him back to the bedroom. “Keep an eye on Sammy while Avanti and I go fetch Fife.” “Be careful. He seemed like a shady little bastard when I saw him at the coven.” Trevor grabbed Knox’s shoulders and kissed him deeply. Knox slid his hands to the small of Trevor’s back. “I will, keep yourself and Sammy safe.” “Yes, sir,” Trevor teased, and Knox bit his lower lip. “I have devilish plans for you two when I get back.” Trevor groaned and gave Knox a quick kiss before he left. “I hope that fucker Fife doesn’t do something stupid.” Trevor shook his head. “Because then I will kill Michael.” **** Knox wrenched Fife’s arm higher up his back. “Keep fighting and I’ll break the bitch off.”

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“I didn’t do a thing. I’m a public official, and I’ll arrest you for this,” Fife threatened. “No, you won’t,” Zeus growled. The shifter gulped as he stared up at Zeus. “Alpha, I don’t understand the meaning of this.” “Bring him to my office.” Zeus led the way as Knox took the shifter to the office. He tossed the deputy onto the couch, taking a stance in front of him. Avanti and Sully stood behind the couch. They weren’t taking any chances on him trying to escape. “So tell me about these secret meetings you’ve been having with the vampire Michael.” Knox saw Fife’s brows lift into his hairline. “How…” “Doesn’t matter. Talk,” Zeus commanded. A defiant look crossed over Fife’s face. “I don’t know what you’re talking about. Michael who?” Zeus stood, walking around his desk and leaning over Fife, his canines extended and his eyes shifted to wolf. Knox took a step back. He was not getting caught between the two if Zeus yanked his ass up and killed him. Knox was itching to go upstairs and check on his mates. He was always tightly wound after action, and now that he had two gorgeous men waiting on him, he had a healthy outlet to relieve the stress. Too bad the shifter was acting like an ass. “So you are telling me that you have no clue who Michael is?” “That’s exactly what I’m saying,” the shifter said smugly. Zeus backhanded the fuck out of the shifter. Even Knox’s ears were ringing from the effect. He was surprised the wolf’s head was still attached. Zeus was six-eleven with the largest hands Knox had ever seen. To have one of them connect with flesh at that speed, fuck. “I’ll ask you again, why have you been meeting with the vampire?”

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“Fuck you,” Fife snarled, holding the side of his head. “Fine, if you don’t want to talk.” Zeus turned to his Beta and soldiers. “Leave us.” Knox did as told. He knew Zeus was about to take Fife down where he kept the rogues and Jackson. A part of him was dying to find out the location, and another part wanted to leave the matter to the Alpha. He had been through enough, and facing Jackson right now may do more harm than good. Good would be killing the bastard. He jogged up the stairs, seeking out his new solace, his mates. Within a week’s time he had fallen in love with them. This had to be love. He’d never experienced it before, but if never wanting to be apart from them, smiling on the inside when he looked at them, and willing to die for both of them wasn’t love, then he would never know its meaning. Which was crazy compared to the way he had acted when first discovering what Trevor was. Knox winced. He still felt like shit for that and for choking him in his sleep. There were some things sorry just didn’t cover, but he planned on spending the rest of his life making up for it. Knox’s breath caught when he entered the room. He found his mates wrestling naked on the bed. What better sight was there than this? It was a gay man’s wet dream come true. He stood there watching two hard cocks bounce around as they played. “Help, Knox. He’s trying to eat me.” Sammy giggled. “You’re damn straight. Now give up the booty.” “You can’t have my hidden treasure.” Sammy squealed and tried to crawl from under Trevor, but the vampire pinned him down. Knox pulled Sammy free and laid him across his lap. “You’re supposed to listen to Trevor.” He ran a hand over those two beautiful small mounds. “He’s not my daddy.” Sammy moaned and stuck his ass in the air. “But you can be if you want to.”

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“Little devil, I swear.” Trevor chuckled. His hand glided over Sammy’s ass as well. “What are you going to do with him?” Knox let his hand fly, leaving a red handprint on Sammy’s left cheek. “Oh god,” Sammy moaned. “Fuck me.” Trevor groaned. Knox moved around until Sammy’s cock was between his legs and then let another hand fly. Smack. “I think I’m gonna come.” Trevor panted. Sammy’s fists gripped Knox’s jeans. His ass was undulating around and soft moans were spilling from his lips. “I think he likes it.” Knox smoothed his hand over Sammy’s reddened flesh. “Yeah.” Trevor nodded absently, staring at Sammy’s cheeks. “Can I?” Knox nodded, and Trevor moved over. His hand flew through the air and landed on the opposite cheek Knox had just spanked. Sammy howled and fucked Knox’s leg. “Holy shit, I am gonna come.” Trevor was panting again. “Then have him suck you off.” Knox watched as Trevor slid his cock between Sammy’s whimpering lips. Sammy attacked it with sucking and moaning. “Fuck.” Trevor leaned back and grabbed Knox’s shoulder at the same time, coming down Sammy’s throat. He lay there breathing heavily as Knox laid Sammy on his stomach, staring at that beautiful reddened ass as he undressed. Knox laid Sammy over Trevor’s chest and pushed his legs under him. He lubed his cock and sank deep, his hands kneading the stinging flesh. Trevor kissed Sammy and ran his hands through his hair as Knox began a slow and methodic rhythm. He wanted this to last. Sammy’s hidden treasure made Knox want to become a damn pirate. His flesh was creamy and smooth, and his mewling was taking Knox to a height of pleasure that threatened his sanity. He rocked in

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and out, watching the puckered hole stretch around his cock and take him in. Sweat dripped down his temples as Knox fought for control. This little ass was his, and Knox was going to show his mate how much he appreciated it. Trevor wrapped his arms around Sammy, holding him in place as Knox thrust deeper. His vampire stared up at him and mouthed I love you. Knox lost all ability to think as he came with a shout. He hammered into Sammy’s ass as his balls emptied. When Trevor sank his fangs into Sammy’s flesh, his small mate cried out and bucked underneath him. Knox held Sammy’s hips as Sammy rode out his orgasm. He could feel Sammy’s muscle milking his cock. Trevor licked the wound closed and smiled up at Knox. “He’s such an addict.” He chuckled. Sammy collapsed on the bed with a satisfied sigh. **** Trevor sat back on the couch with his ankles crossed and his fingers laced behind his head. Knox and Sammy were playing pool. The shifter was trying his best to show Sammy how to play. Minsheng and Yasuko came into the living room and took a seat next to him. “Soooo…you vampire.” “We’ve discussed this Minsheng.” Trevor smiled down at the little man. “Show me.” Trevor pulled his lip back once again and hissed at Minsheng. Instead of being frightened, the guy looked more fascinated than anything else. “You drink blood?” Trevor chuckled. “No, I drink cow’s milk.” Minsheng stood and kicked Trevor in his shin. “No lie to me.”

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Knox flew across the room and pulled Minsheng from his feet. “That wasn’t very nice.” “He no lie to me.” Minsheng pointed angrily at Trevor. “What the hell is his problem?” Trevor asked as he massaged his bruised shin. “It was a joke, you little shit.” Minsheng gave Trevor a raspberry and crossed his arms. Knox slowly lowered him with a warning glare. “Don’t do that again. He’s my mate, and I’m very protective of him.” “More men mating. I never understand.” Minsheng grabbed Yasuko’s hand and walked from the room. “I understand he’s been through some horrific stuff, but he’s just mean,” Sammy said from across the room. “I don’t blame him for lashing out.” Trevor sat back again. “I would, too, if roles were reversed.” He smiled when Knox knelt at his feet and lifted his pant leg to check for bruising. “Your skin is too pale already. It’s left a nasty mark.” He growled. “I’ll heal quicker than he will,” Trevor said sadly. He ran his hand through Knox’s hair and lifted his chin. “I’m fine.” Sammy came over and sat on his lap. “Do you want me to kiss it and make it all better?” “I have something you can kiss, little darling.” “And you call me a horndog?” The three laughed as Knox and Sammy went back to pool and Trevor draped his body over the couch to watch them. He’d never get enough of looking at the two most important men in his life.

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THE END WWW.LYNNHAGEN.COM HTTP://FACEBOOK.COM/LYNNHAGEN.MANLOVE HTTP://LYNNHAGEN.BLOGSPOT.COM HTTP://GROUPS.YAHOO.COM/GROUP/LYNNHAGEN

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Lynn Hagen loves writing about the somewhat flawed, but lovable. She also loves a hero who can see past all the rough edges to find the shining diamond of a beautiful heart. You can find her on any given day curled up with her laptop and a cup of hot java, letting the next set of characters tell their story.

Also by Lynn Hagen Everlasting Classic ManLove: Brac Pack 1: Maverick’s Mate Everlasting Classic ManLove: Brac Pack 2: Hawk’s Pretty Baby Everlasting Classic ManLove: Brac Pack 3: Sunshine’s Savior Everlasting Classic ManLove: Brac Pack 4: Remi’s Pup Everlasting Classic ManLove: Brac Pack 5: Stormy Eyes Everlasting Classic ManLove: Brac Pack 6: Oliver’s Heart Everlasting Classic ManLove: Brac Pack 7: Keata’s Promise Everlasting Classic ManLove: Brac Pack 8: George’s Turn Everlasting Classic ManLove: Brac Pack 9: Loco’s Love Everlasting Classic ManLove: Brac Pack 10: Lewis’s Dream Everlasting Classic ManLove: Brac Pack 11: Mark’s Not Gay Everlasting Classic ManLove: Brac Pack 12: Nutter Nero Everlasting Classic ManLove: Brac Pack 13: Heaven’s Hell Everlasting Classic ManLove: Brac Pack 14: Nicholas’s Wolf Everlasting Classic ManLove: Brac Pack 15: Murphy’s Madness Everlasting Classic ManLove: Brac Pack 16: Montana’s Vamp Everlasting Classic ManLove: Brac Pack 17: Carter’s Tryck Everlasting Classic ManLove: Brac Pack 18: Joshua’s Law Everlasting Classic ManLove: Brac Pack 19: Dagon’s Ride Everlasting Classic ManLove: Brac Pack 20: Steven’s Journey Ménage Everlasting ManLove: Zeus’s Pack 1: Jasper Ménage Everlasting ManLove: Zeus’s Pack 2: Avanti Everlasting Classic ManLove: Demon Warriors 1: Hondo Everlasting Classic ManLove: Demon Warriors 2: Snooke

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