Surrounded by Wolves

Wolves of Climax 1

Surrounded by Wolves Cassidy moves out of the only city she's ever known and heads to the distant town of Climax, British Columbia. Her grandfather left her an estate, and she lined up a job in the small mining town. She arrives and discovers that her inheritance is nothing more than a run-down shack, and the men she's supposed to work with are drop-dead gorgeous. It's impossible to resist the advances of the men in Climax, especially when she's never felt so isolated. Garret is the foreman of the Gregor Copper Mine, but also alpha to a small pack of wolf shifters. Recent events in Climax have made life complicated—loggers are trying to encroach on their land, one of their pack mates is missing, and their new female dispatcher is a mouthwatering distraction. When Cassidy is threatened, the men band together, realizing the little human is more important to them than they ever imagined. Genre: Ménage a Trois/Quatre, Paranormal, Vampires/Werewolves Length: 25,806 words

SURROUNDED BY WOLVES Wolves of Climax 1

Stacey Espino

LOVEXTREME FOREVER

Siren Publishing, Inc. www.SirenPublishing.com

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A SIREN PUBLISHING BOOK IMPRINT: LoveXtreme Forever

SURROUNDED BY WOLVES Copyright © 2012 by Stacey Espino E-book ISBN: 1-61926-385-8 First E-book Publication: February 2012 Cover design by Les Byerley All art and logo copyright © 2012 by Siren Publishing, Inc. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED: This literary work may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, including electronic or photographic reproduction, in whole or in part, without express written permission. All characters and events in this book are fictitious. Any resemblance to actual persons living or dead is strictly coincidental.

PUBLISHER Siren Publishing, Inc. www.SirenPublishing.com

Letter to Readers Dear Readers, If you have purchased this copy of Surrounded by Wolves by Stacey Espino 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 Stacey Espino’s livelihood. It’s fair and simple. Please respect Ms. Espino’s right to earn a living from her work. Amanda Hilton, Publisher www.SirenPublishing.com www.BookStrand.com

DEDICATION To the Righteous Perverts group. They’re fun, crazy, and always supportive. I wouldn’t change a thing.

SURROUNDED BY WOLVES Wolves of Climax 1 STACEY ESPINO Copyright © 2012

Chapter One “Get your hard hat on, Texas!” The foreman loved to bust Travis’s balls on the jobsite. He gave his boss the middle finger before grabbing the white hat and reflective safety vest from the bed of his truck. Garret wasn’t just his foreman, but also his alpha. Fortunately, he was also a good friend, one of the few men he trusted. The jobsite was dusty, the engines and mining equipment around them making it difficult to hear. At least that meant they were being productive, which wasn’t a given these days. Travis slipped the vest on over his shoulders. His superior climbed down from the excavator, landing heavily on his booted feet. Garret tossed the remainder of the cigarette hanging precariously from his lips. “Safety first. You know that.” Travis leaned against his pickup truck, straightening out the annoying orange outer layer. “Stop being such a prick. I’m not even on shift.” “You’re on my site which means you wear your gear at all times. Those Rockford boys are just begging for an excuse to report us.” Travis looked up at the cloudless sky. It would be a full moon tonight, and his wolf already clawed within him to be free. How could

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Garret worry about protocol when they were only hours away from shedding their human skin? It was all he could think about. Garret had been pushing the pack too hard, expecting them to play human with no reprieve. It was inhumane to not allow them to connect with their beasts on a nightly basis. But he insisted there was trouble lurking in the woods, and they’d be better to lay low for a while. Tonight they were promised a midnight run. “Hey! Paying attention is another necessity. You’re gonna get yourself killed wandering around in a dream world.” Travis inhaled a cleansing breath, trying to control his anxiousness. “Sorry, you say something?” “The new dispatcher arrives today. She’s coming all the way up from the Lower Mainland. Try not to piss her off because we won’t get lucky again anytime soon.” “How’d you manage that? I didn’t think anyone in their right mind would apply for the position.” Climax was off the grid. A small mining town off the northwestern cape of British Columbia. Although some men did well in the local fishery, mining was where the real money was to be made. Gregor Mining had been hurting for a new dispatcher. They had trucks coming and going from several smaller, open pits in the area, and there needed to be reliable coordination for all the copper going out. The last employee quit and returned to the city after less than two weeks on the job. Feuds with loggers, frequent reports of animal killings, and the suffering economy made Climax a destination to be avoided. A man couldn’t raise a family in a town lacking proper infrastructure, such as schools, stores, and social support networks. Most of the citizens were single men—drifters, misfits, and shifters relying on the old-growth forests just north of town. “We got a lucky break. She was moving here anyhow, and called looking for a job. Of course, I hired her on the spot.” He chuckled. “Who’d actually choose to live here? Especially a woman. She must be a real prize if she’s willing to isolate herself in

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this neck of the woods.” In fact, she’d only be the fourth woman in the entire town. Bonnie ran one of the long-haul trucks for Gregor Mining, Carol worked at the only diner, and one of their coworkers, Gord, lived with his wife in a small cottage at the base of the mountains. Garret’s two-way radio alerted him. He turned his back and answered the call, yelling into the mike to be heard over the roar of the loaders in the pit. A new dispatcher would make the job run smoother, but what could repair Travis’s private life? Travis understood the need to live in Climax, but even a wolf-shifter could feel isolated when unable to socialize beyond the same, small group of men. It drove Travis crazy most weeks to not have a selection of females at his beck and call. It was a rarity even to see a woman where he lived, and the ones he did were better left unseen. He had to satisfy himself with the infrequent trips into larger towns. Travis shared a cabin with Evan and Patrick at the base of the Fairweather Mountain Range. Their property covered thousands of acres, virgin forest passed down from generation to generation of wolf-shifters. There was a Native reservation to the east of them, but from the north, loggers constantly tried to encroach on their land. They also had issues with their competition, the wolves from Rockford Mining. Garret was sure they had something to do with Matthew’s disappearance. They had tried to get his best operator and pack mate to join their mine on more than one occasion. Each time Matthew refused, they became more spiteful. Finding skilled labor this far north was always a challenge. Matthew was the only man able to operate some of the vital machines at the mine, and production had been stilled ever since he went missing. Business was in a downward spiral, but Garret refused to look for a replacement. He was determined their pack mate would be found alive. “I’ve got to make a call in the tower. Patrick’s got a flat tire out on County Road 6. Make yourself useful, you’ve got another three hours

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until quitting time.” Garret stormed off. He appeared to be all brawn, with an attitude toxic enough to strip paint, but he was a highly regarded alpha. Keeping the mine running smoothly was a challenge in itself. Travis didn’t envy Garret’s position as foreman, especially with their small budget, being understaffed, and working with out-ofdate equipment on tight deadlines. It was a constant headache. Travis boarded one of the dump trucks, adjusted his seat, and got in line to be loaded. **** Cassidy Lyons finished packing the last of her clothes in the old, faux-leather suitcase. She’d never been out of the Lower Mainland, but was about to say good-bye and head north for the first time. At thirty-four it felt risky starting over, but in the current economy she couldn’t turn down a mortgage-free home. “Eight-hour drive,” she muttered to herself. Cassidy stuffed the two books from her bedside table into the side pouch of her bag. The remote town of Climax, British Columbia, barely registered on the map, but she would soon call it home. With the help of the lawyer handling the estate of her late grandfather, she was able to line up a full-time job as a dispatcher at one of the many quarries in the area. Cassidy figured it couldn’t be too different than working at the call center in the city. She lugged the last suitcase off the bed and set it beside the others at the entrance. The long drive wouldn’t get any shorter by stalling. Come on, Cass. You can do this! She walked around the now-empty apartment, her low heels echoing on the laminate floor. Three years was the longest she’d ever stayed in one place, so it was bittersweet saying good-bye. Although her view was the brick wall of the building next door, she’d customized her apartment until it was her cozy retreat from the world. She’d have to start over because she was

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only taking her clothing and the few things she could fit into her Sunfire. It would be tough starting fresh in a strange town, not knowing a soul, but she was up for the challenge. The house she acquired was supposedly furnished, and with no monthly payments besides utilities, and the savings she withdrew from the bank, she’d be okay until she got her first paycheck. Cassidy was a survivor, and wasn’t worried about putting food on the table. She could live off Kraft Dinner and Kool-Aid if she had to. She loaded up her backseat and trunk with everything she owned. Cassidy wasn’t leaving behind any loved ones. Her only known relative was a half brother she’d never met. She’d never been very close with her adoptive family. Those had been her rebellious years, the memories still a haze. As an adult she kept in telephone contact, but it was a courtesy. They’d never had the chance to bond properly. She’d only joined their family when she was twelve after being tossed from foster home to foster home. Cassidy only had herself, not even a pet. But that was okay. She had high hopes for the future—dreams of true love and belonging. Reality would likely keep those dreams at bay. If she couldn’t snag a good man in a city inhabited by millions, how much luck would she have in a town with a three-digit populace? She envisioned hunters and trappers, crabbers and loggers. They’d likely have yellow or missing teeth, scruffy beards, and wear overalls to hide their big guts. She’d have to sleep with one eye open for a while, or at least ensure her new home had functioning locks on all the doors and windows. Besides the frighteningly poor selection of eligible bachelors she expected from a small town, she looked forward to the whole smalltown appeal. Little old ladies bringing her pies, flowered planters along the main road, crafts sales, and maple syrup. A couple friends had asked her why she would even contemplate moving way up north. They advised her to just sell her inheritance and stay in the city where she could make a real future for herself. But

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they didn’t understand where she came from. Finding out she had a blood grandfather was the highlight of her life, but within months of discovering he existed, he’d passed away, leaving her his forgotten estate. She wanted to keep the home, the only memory she had of real family. It meant something to her, and she wouldn’t sell because she was hurting for money. Some things were more important than dollars and cents. Her grandfather left her a great legacy. He’d apparently built the home with his own two hands and raised his children there, one being her birth mother. Cassidy was desperate to salvage what little history she could in her life. How bad could it be? The drive up to Climax was relatively easy based on her MapQuest directions, but tireless. She could sleep for a week if she didn’t have to start work at her new job on Monday morning. That only gave her two full days. Two days to get settled in before beginning a new daily grind. Cassidy drove past the sign welcoming her to Climax. Population three hundred and sixty-eight. The name of the town still made her laugh. She’d stopped at a gas station for directions halfway through her journey. Cassidy told the young attendant she was desperate to reach Climax by nightfall and needed help getting there. The blank look on his face said it all. From that point on she relied on her maps and common sense. The mountains towered in the distance, carpeted in shades of green, and highlighted by the clear, blue sky. The country was breathtaking. There was no denying the fact. The drive had been more pleasant than she’d imagined due to the views along the way. She loved being a Canadian, seeing mountains at the ends of streets and being able to visit forests taken right out of fairy tales. Sometimes the soul needed to see nature in its rawest, truest form, not just the metal and concrete of the inner cities. She was going to head to her house first. Cassidy was nearly giddy with excitement being so close after the eight-hour drive. She’d never owned anything of value or significance, but she was now a homeowner, and a damn proud one. It was the Gregor Mining sign

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that put a kink in her plans. She figured she should check in, take a quick look around before heading to her new home further outside the town limits. As she navigated the dirt roads into the quarry, dust billowed up around her. Her tires crunched along the drive, dipping with each pothole along the way. She rolled up her windows to keep from coughing. Keeping her clothes clean on the job was going to be out of the question. She’d have to hop in the shower the second she got home each evening. Hopefully her new place had a working washer and dryer. It would be a huge upgrade from carting her laundry six blocks to the local Laundromat. Once past the natural barrier of evergreens lining the entrance, the area opened up into a massive clearing where the pit was in full operation. She followed the path toward two construction trailers set up side by side. Would that be where she would do her dispatching? She was usually a quick learner, but had no clue about the mining industry to start with. The man on the phone hadn’t even asked her about her employment history or reference phone numbers. He just hired her right off the phone, gave her the brief details, and said he’d see her eight o’clock Monday morning. At first it had all been a godsend, until she’d had time to reflect about her abilities. Please don’t let them fire me before I even start. She parked her Sunfire next to the first trailer and got out to investigate. Once inside the office the loud drone of heavy equipment was muted. “Hello?” There wasn’t anyone that she could see. The silence was uncomfortable. Each step she made was punctuated obscenely loudly by her heels. There were three desks in a row, spaced out to fill the length of the narrow trailer. Florescent lighting flickered above. One end had a map which covered the entire wall, little red pins set at different locations. She studied the notes clipped to the bulletin board until the phone rang. Shit! Cassidy jumped, gasping from the sudden scare, not realizing how nervous she was.

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Was someone going to appear to answer the call? It was a place of business after all. Shouldn’t there be employees occupying the desks? The phone continued to ring, on and on. Should I answer it? She was tempted to pick it up to silence the noise if nothing else. But just when it stopped, the door wrenched open, hitting the wall with force. A dirty-blond construction worker bounded in, tossing his white hard hat on the closest desk with a thud. “This is bullshit,” he cursed under his breath, sifting through an oversized stack of invoices. From what she saw, the worker wasn’t homely or overweight. He actually looked pretty damn fine from what she could make out. The blond was uncommonly tall, his tan work boots big, and his forearms generously muscled. “What is?” she asked, trying to be cute. His head whipped to the side the moment she spoke, his blue eyes burning into hers. He was gorgeous—a rustic, untamed quality about him. She swallowed hard. “Huh?” “You said something’s bullshit. What is it?” He stood up straight and frowned as if unsure what to think or say. “Oh…My boss sent me to find a month-old bill for him. He usually pulls these stunts when I have less than an hour to quitting time.” She didn’t expect him to actually tell her. It just felt wrong standing there when he clearly hadn’t noticed her. And after checking him out, she wanted him to really notice her. “Who are you?” he asked, giving her the once-over. She could feel the heat of his gaze as he explored her from head to toe. “My name’s Cassidy Lyons. I’m supposed to start work as dispatcher on Monday. I just got into town and thought I’d pop in for a quick visit.” A smile tugged at the corner of his mouth, realization smoothing out his scowl. “You’re not scary at all.” She scoffed. “Funny, I was thinking the exact same thing about you.”

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He stepped closer. The guy was taller than she first estimated. He towered over her five-foot-two frame, making her pussy moisten. Big men were a weakness of hers, especially ones that likely had bodies to die for under all those layers of denim and orange protective gear. “My name’s Travis. I suppose you’ll be working under me.” He kept coming, forcing her to back up against the panelled wall. “Are you my boss, then?” She kept her voice hushed. He was so close, leaning into her, an arm braced against the wall near her head. If she had known this dirty-blond Adonis would be here, she would have touched up her makeup before making an appearance. She wondered if he was married, emotionally damaged, or gay. It had to be one of the three. It always was. “I’ll be anything you want me to be, baby doll.” He had a slight twang to his accent. It wasn’t local. If anything, he reminded her of the out-of-town cowboys she’d seen when visiting the Calgary Stampede last year. Cassidy might look innocent, younger than her thirty-four years, but she wasn’t born yesterday. Travis was a classic playboy, using sweet words and sexual innuendo to get women into bed. Her libido screamed at her, Who the fuck cares? Even though she knew he was full of shit, she still wanted a piece of him. Would his cock measure up to his boot size? Would he be as attentive in bed, between her legs? Her body heated, and her face felt flush. Before she could give him a smart retort, continuing their game of wit, the door opened again. The new man who entered was darkhaired, with eyes so black they looked as if they were outlined in kohl. He was breathtaking, a neatly kept goatee giving him a sinister edge. The man was strapping and golden, just like the first. She felt surrounded by so much male heat that just a touch would bring her to orgasm. The past couple years had proved to start a sharp incline in her sexuality. Maybe the town was aptly named after all. “Who’s this?” he asked Travis, a gruff disinterest in his tone.

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“The new girl you hired.” He seemed amused by this, as if they had some secret, long-standing joke surrounding her. “Cassidy Lyons? From the Lower Mainland?” “I know I don’t start until Monday. I just got into town and wanted to take a peek around.” Travis’s arm was still propped against the wall, his body temptingly close. The new guy stalked forward, and “stalked” was the only way to describe the way he moved. He had grace despite his size and bulky outerwear, his eyes narrowed and focused on her. She couldn’t look away, as if entranced by those two dark orbs, until she could see her own reflection. Cassidy took a breath, not realizing she’d been holding hers. “I’m Garret, foreman of Gregor Mining. You talked with me on the phone.” She nodded, not trusting her voice. He’d sounded older and much more unattractive on the phone. “This will be where you’ll work most of the time, unless I need you in the tower. If you have any questions or concerns, I’m the one you’ll need to find.” “How much training time will I get?” She wanted to ask if the training was paid, but didn’t want to look like a penny-pincher. It’s not like there was a list of jobs to choose from in Climax. Travis chuckled, a deep, erotic sound. “The little filly needs to be broken in. I’d be happy to be the one to do it, boss.” “Texas, forget the bill. Get back in the pit.” The foreman only glared briefly at the other man before he complied, walking backward with a sexy smirk until he was out the door. Being alone with the dark-haired man intimidated her, and she normally wasn’t the type of woman to be pushed over. An air of authority surrounded him which made her body respond. She licked her lips which suddenly felt parched. “Cassidy,” he said as if savoring the sound of her name. “I think I’ll call you Cassie. It suits you. Is that all right with you?”

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“Okay.” Many friends called her Cassie or Cass, but they didn’t make it sound the same way Garret could. “There aren’t many women in Climax.” He stood so close to her, even leaning in to take a breath near her neckline. She froze, feeling a sexual energy between them, an unspoken power she was helpless to fight. “If any of the men give you trouble, be sure to let me know.” She’d love a bit of trouble if it included Travis or Garret.

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Chapter Two Garret had only been concerned about getting a new dispatcher at the mine, not considering the effect a new woman could have on production. Cassie had big blue eyes and radiant beauty. The other three women in town had nothing on her. She wore a knee-length gray skirt and fitted white blouse, partially unbuttoned. The upper edge of a white lace bra peeked out. His crew would eat her alive. He dragged a heavy hand through his hair, wondering if he’d just made more work for himself by hiring her. Travis wouldn’t stop until he had her in his bed. The look in his eyes was that of a wolf on the hunt, and getting him to focus on work would be a challenge now that he had his sights on the new dispatcher. It was hard enough on a regular day to get Travis focused. He was a loose cannon who really needed to get his act together. Garret knew his pack was pent up with the need to shift, and fuck, so they’d have more difficulty behaving themselves with temptation only feet away. His own control wavered as soon as he scented Cassie’s sweet vanilla fragrance. She reminded him he wasn’t just a workhorse, but a man, with needs and desires. “So you’re moving into the old Graymont place?” “You know it?” she asked, her attention piqued. He chuckled. “It’s kind of hard to miss.” The dilapidated old cabin was an eyesore when driving out of town toward the mountains. Even the old man who used to live in the small house had abandoned it for easier living in one of the larger towns to the south almost a decade ago. The paint had worn away with time, the wood damaged from the harsh elements, and it had been overgrown with weeds and foliage. Cassie would have her work cut out for her if she planned to actually

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live in that shit hole. Maybe she planned to renovate or tear it down to start anew. “Good. Then I won’t have a hard time finding it.” She fidgeted which didn’t support the bravado she’d outwardly displayed. Despite the fact he could scent her growing nerves, she refused to show weakness. He liked a woman with a bit of gumption, and she’d need it if she were to survive working at the Gregor Mine. She began to fiddle with the buttons on her blouse, distracting him with her cleavage. Unfortunately, Garret didn’t have the luxury of treating her like a new toy. He had the weight of the world on his shoulders running the mine and trying to figure out what happened to one of his pack mates who’d recently gone missing. The new employee would just be an unwanted diversion. “No, I doubt you’ll miss it. Just follow the main road to the fork about a mile up. Take the left turn and it’s just a couple minutes before you reach the cliffs.” Conflicting desires battled within him. His natural, feral lust demanded he take what he wanted. As alpha he had the right to choose the mate for his pack. Cassie wasn’t hard on the eyes, but he knew nothing about her. To give in to a moment of sexual yearning would be a lifelong mistake he wasn’t willing to risk. He gritted his teeth and turned his back to her. “Did you want a tour or could you wait until Monday?” he said flatly. “I suppose I could wait. I have a ton to do getting settled in my new house anyway.” “Good…good. If you need anything, give the office a call.” He grabbed a handful of invoices to look like he had a purpose and bolted from the construction trailer. Rather than getting the reprieve he desperately needed, he bounded into a group of his men. They lurked around the entrance, eager to get a glimpse of the cute new employee that Travis had no doubt blathered on about. Sure enough he was there, a guilty grin on his face.

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“Where is she at, this fine young thing?” asked Patrick. “I’m dying to see the woman Travis says I’ll be begging to have my children.” The redheaded machine operator was supposed to be excavating, not falling victim to the lure of fresh meat. “Fuck, Travis! Are you determined to bring this mine to ruin? All of you get your asses back in gear, and minds on the job. I didn’t hear the quitting bell.” Travis, Evan, and Patrick were onlookers, but also Glen and several other human employees. If it were just his pack mates, he’d have put them in their place, maybe shown them some canines. Tonight, under the strength of the full moon, he’d remind his men who was in charge. The pit was too quiet, production at a standstill. What would happen come Monday when Cassie was at the mine all day? Would his workers find every goddamn excuse to visit the trailer, putting them further behind in output? They were already slipping behind the competition. The Rockford Mine put them to shame, and Garret’s pride wouldn’t allow the other pack to outperform them. The door opened behind him, all eyes shifting to Cassie. They silenced, their jeering and laughter stifled. He could feel the wave of energy, the feral lust coming off his pack mates. They’d tear her apart if given the opportunity to bed her. It was good timing that tonight was the night he promised they could finally shift. They could expel their energy racing through the forests under the light of the full moon. “Well, for once I’d say Travis was right,” Patrick called out, no shame whatsoever. “She’s a beauty.” The men broke out in a chorus of laughter. He turned in time to see the pretty blush on her cheeks. The small crowd of miners gawked as if they’d never seen a woman. She’d probably leave and never want to come back, and he needed a dispatcher. “It’s not too late for me to change my mind about tonight, Big Red.” Patrick sealed his lips and stalked off, turning back only once to

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admire the woman still standing on the stairs to the office. The crowd began to disperse until they were all back to work. He walked Cassie to her car, unwilling to leave her alone for a minute. It was a rarity to see a woman in Climax, especially a breathtaking one with lush curves and a long mane of silky brown hair. Even Garret could imagine his hands tangled in her hair as their naked bodies pressed against one another. Whatever his men thought would be much more explicit. “Sorry about that. They can be animals sometimes, but I’ll have them all on best behavior come Monday. Promise.” Cassie leaned against the side of her car, fiddling with her keys. Her blue eyes were framed with thick lashes, and her tongue played a distracting game with her lips. “Don’t worry about me. I can handle men.” The woman liked to flirt, and he wasn’t immune. She kept it subtle, but he recognized the playfulness just under the surface. It only made her more of a personal temptation. “Can you now?” “They’re the same everywhere you go. Sometimes I think men are more predictable than animals.” “Or one in the same.” He bit the inside of his lip to squelch the desire to lean in and kiss those pink, pouty lips. It seemed little Ms. Lyons had a magnetic pull even he couldn’t ignore. As alpha he couldn’t afford a loss of control. He opened her door for her. “Until Monday…” She boarded the driver’s seat and started the engine. When Cassie rolled down the window, she looked up at him with innocently seductive eyes. “I’ll be here.” If only she knew she was playing with a wolf. **** The first thing Cassidy planned to unpack was her vibrator. She imagined it all the way down the road, following the simple directions

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Garret gave her. Most of the men working at Gregor Mining were broad-shouldered gods. It looked like the set of a gladiator movie, with her smack dab in the center of it all. How much willpower was a woman expected to possess? Especially when they all seemed sex starved and interested in her. Maybe being the only woman at the mine would have its advantages. The attention was nice when she wasn’t used to it. But she had no plans on becoming the town tramp, and doubted any of the men considered her for more than a quick romp, so she had to get her thoughts out of the gutter. Cassidy was here to start fresh, to claim her new home and put down some real roots. Finding Mr. Right was on her list, but getting her life and mental health in order first was a necessity. She drove slowly up the last stretch of road. Garret said she wouldn’t miss the house, but all she drove past before hitting the cliffs was an old prospector’s cabin that looked ready to collapse in on itself. A sudden enlightenment nearly stopped her heart. She shifted into reverse and sped backward until she hit the cabin again. Cassie double-checked her paperwork and the numbers on the house and property marker. Sure enough, the oversized outhouse was her inheritance. She’d uprooted her entire life, quit her job, given up her apartment, and withdrew all her meager savings to come northward to bigger and better things. But all she had was a job she wasn’t sure she’d even be able to handle and a piece-of-shit cabin that looked uninhabitable. Rather than have a mini breakdown in the middle of the deserted road, she pulled into the driveway. Cassidy cut the engine and stepped out onto the gravel drive. She could hear wildlife in the trees around her, squirrels scampering in the branches, birds singing, and chipmunks scurrying in the underbrush. They were probably laughing at her and her joke of a house. She did a brief assessment of the perimeter. At least the glass windows weren’t broken, but that was the only positive she could find. It seemed the forest was trying to reclaim the home, vines and foliage taking over the property. She dug in her

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purse for the key the lawyer gave her. The cool metal in her palm brought back memories of the many nights she could barely sleep, anticipating seeing her own house for the first time. All her expectations were now dashed. How much longer must I be tested? She stepped up onto the small wooden porch, her footsteps creaking on the aged wooden boards. All the while she was mentally tallying up the damage, trying to visualize the place with repairs done. She could imagine rocking leisurely on the porch in the evenings, a hot coffee and romance novel in hand. There was no turning back now, no matter how dire her situation appeared. She’d have to put on her big-girl panties and prepare for a lot of elbow grease. Sitting in her car and having a full-blown pity party wouldn’t help her situation. The inside of the house made things worse. There wasn’t a stitch of furniture besides an old wooden table and one mismatched chair. Just clearing her throat created an echo in the empty cabin. It was tiny, just the one room…and no indoor bathroom, she soon discovered. Motherfucker. The lawyer led her to believe she was moving into an older, but solid, furnished home. She sat on that lonely chair and took in deep breaths, over and over. Where was her fucking apple pie? “Think positive, Cassidy,” she repeated to herself. At least there was a refrigerator and kitchenette. She could use her savings to buy a pull-out sofa, some paint, and cleaning supplies. Obviously her biggest goal would be getting a rough-in for an indoor bathroom, but that would cost money she didn’t have yet. Cassidy left the house in search of an outhouse. There had to be one nearby, and although terrified to discover the condition of the outdoor bathroom, she had to check it out and assess the damage. It was deeper in the woods than she expected, making any nighttime trips to the john out of the question. When she opened the door, the whiny hinges made the birds in the overhead trees take flight. The forest had tried to conquer the toilet as well. She tugged at the vines, deciding she may as well get started clearing out some of the vegetation in her way. Once she began, she couldn’t stop.

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Hours passed like minutes as she went on a cleaning binge. She had some Mr. Clean and bleach in her car and found an old corn broom in the kitchenette. By the time she was done, the inside of the house was aired out and dust-free, the porch and outside perimeter free of noxious weeds. She was exhausted once day started drifting into twilight. Climax had nothing more than a diner and general store, and they were hours from the larger towns that had retail centers, motels, and government services. She should have done more research rather than taking a blind leap of faith. Tonight she’d have to sleep on a folded comforter on the floor. She had no other options, but expected to sleep like the dead after all her hard work. Once she stopped moving about, the silence was deafening. She’d never considered the isolation factor, or the feeling of insecurity being all alone in the forest without even a telephone. She expected a small town with humble neighbors. Fear crept into her system as the forest canopy began to create shadows around her. She packed up her efforts for the night, locked her car, and then barricaded herself into the cabin. All the contents from her backseat and trunk had already been carted inside which gave her a little sense of home. Her pillows, blankets, a few mementos, and her teddy bear collection. After setting up a makeshift pallet, she made sure she had her flashlight and matches within reach. There were only two lights in the cabin, one in the main living area, with a burnt bulb, and one in the kitchen. If she heard a noise, she wanted to have a source of immediate illumination. As for protection, she only had a cast-iron frying pan, which she also set near her pallet on the floor. She cuddled up under her blankets. There was a fireplace, but with no cut wood, she couldn’t even attempt a fire tonight. The coolness from the floorboards and general evening chill made her shiver. This was not how she anticipated spending her first night as a homeowner. She wanted to cry. The tears clogged her throat and pricked at her eyes. It was as if fate was toying with her, constantly dangling

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happiness just out of reach. How much was she expected to endure in her life when she’d already been fighting since childhood? Sleep began to pull her out of consciousness. It had been a busy day and the last few hours filled with backbreaking labor. The howl of several wolves snapped her back into full alertness. Wolves? She hadn’t even considered being surrounded by dangerous animals, but she should have being so deep in the BC wilderness. Back home the worst animals to contend with were raccoons and skunks. A shiver of fear trickled down her spine. She hugged her teddy bear harder and shimmied further under the covers, like a child hiding from nightmares. Only her fears were all too real, and no knight in shining armor scoured the forest in search of her on his white stallion. It was going to be a long night.

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Chapter Three “Good morning.” Evan emerged from the forest behind the old Graymont cabin. He’d enjoyed a good run last night, a treat after being refused the luxury for weeks. Even in wolf form, all he could hear were his pack mates’ thoughts centered around Cassidy Lyons. He knew the color of her hair, the scent of her skin, and shape of her lips before even seeing her up close. It was difficult to disguise emotion when in their animal skin. Last night had been the first time he realized their alpha desired her as well, even though he reprimanded Travis and Patrick for their blatant unholy interest in the new dispatcher. She was stacking small boulders in a ring, probably trying to construct a fire pit. When he spoke, she dropped the rock she held and whirled around. “Who are you? I mean…good morning.” He had to remind himself that human women were delicate, easily spooked, and not accustomed to having strange men appear out of the forest. Still, she didn’t cower. Although her hair was dishevelled, up in a messy ponytail, and she wore a stained T-shirt and faded blue jeans, he could still see her appeal, and scent it. “Sorry if I startled you. I was off on my morning hike and thought I’d come and welcome you properly. I’ll be working with you at Gregor Mining.” “Oh, of course.” She wiped her hand on her jeans and reached out to shake his. He didn’t want her hand, but the whole woman. “I’m Cassidy Lyons.” “Evan.” He looked around the property after shaking her hand. “It’s just you out here? The place needs a lot of work.” He may be

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considered the lowest in the pack for his unquestioning devotion to his alpha, but he could physically outdo the other three men if he wanted to. His strength could aid this damsel in distress, now looking up at him with a mix of caution and curiosity. “It certainly wasn’t what I expected. But I’ll make it work.” “What’re you working on now?” He nodded to the stone pit. She smirked, squatting down to arrange the stones. “When I was younger, there was this one place I stayed that had a fire pit. We’d roast marshmallows and tell scary stories. It’s one of my happier memories growing up, so I thought I’d re-create it the best I could.” He already liked this girl. “Anything I can do to help?” Cassidy laughed. “There’s too much. I wouldn’t know where to start.” She stood up. “It’s my fault for not coming better prepared. Thanks for asking though.” He wasn’t going to leave without doing something. The woodpile on the side of the house was down to the last few cut logs. He picked up the rusty-bladed axe leaning against the side of the home and swung it up over his shoulder. There was an endless supply of deadwood to choose from living in the wilderness. He started walking back out to the forest behind the house. “It wouldn’t be gentlemanly of me to leave without at least making sure you had wood for a fire. It’ll only take me a little while, then I’ll be out of your hair.” **** She watched the broad-shouldered blond disappear into the brushwood. He didn’t intimidate her despite his size. There was a calmness about him that settled her nerves as soon as he spoke. It was nice to see another person after the long night of listening to those godforsaken wolves howling and rooting around her little wooden house. Until the light of day gave her renewed strength and optimism, she swore she’d stay holed up in the house until someone came to rescue her.

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Evan returned a while later dragging a massive downed log like a regular lumberjack. She wasn’t sure how on earth he’d moved it at all. Once he dropped it down, the earth trembled. “Wow, I guess having a man around is useful after all,” she teased. Cassidy tried to budge it with her foot, but couldn’t even make it wobble. Evan’s male power enamored her at once. She settled onto a tree stump nearby to watch the man in action. “I’ll set you up for half the upcoming winter. At least that’ll be one less thing for you to worry about.” He began swinging the axe, his shirt tightening across his back, revealing sculpted muscles. After cutting each section free, he’d rearrange the wood before continuing to create smaller logs. She’d easily be able to cart them into the house and fit them into the airtight fireplace. He didn’t even know her, but went to so much trouble to offer a helping hand. Maybe all smalltown men were friendly and helpful…and droolworthy. A vehicle slowly crawled along the gravel drive as Evan continued with his cutting. She turned to find a white pickup truck with the Gregor Mining logo on the side. The foreman, Garret, stepped out. He looked even more striking than yesterday, his dark hair slightly damp and pushed casually off his face. “I came to check on how you were getting along out here.” He walked toward her, but stopped when he noticed the other man. “That you, Evan?” He stopped chopping wood and wiped his face with the bottom of his T-shirt, briefly revealing chiseled abs. “Just helping out the lady.” Garret looked like he wanted to argue with his friend, but instead turned his attention to her. “How was your first night?” She saw no point in lying. “It was terrifying. There were wolves. Real wolves. They came right up to house. I didn’t get a wink of sleep.” He studied her face, no doubt finding the dark circles and bags to prove her story true.

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“Evan, go find out if Patrick or Travis know anything about wolves in the area.” His tone didn’t leave room for argument, but she was still surprised when Evan dropped the axe on the woodpile and disappeared into the forest without a word. He didn’t look like the kind of man to take direction from anyone. She wanted to at least say thank you for all he’d done to help, but he was long gone before she could speak. “It’s okay. I’m sure it’s a normal part of life living this isolated. It’ll just take some getting used to.” “Not all wolves are created equal. Some won’t cause you any trouble, but others should be avoided.” He licked his lips—thick, kissable lips. “Have you ever seen one up close?” “One what?” “Wolf.” She shook her head. “Just in pictures and movies. I’m sure I wouldn’t want to meet one face-to-face.” His body was close to hers. These men knew nothing about personal space, but she wasn’t going to complain. He smelled good, like musk and man. “I couldn’t stop thinking of you last night. Or the rude way I acted.” Her heart immediately started to pound. Was it her imagination or had his voice suddenly taken on a lower, husky quality? “I knew the Graymont place was in rough shape, but assumed you did, too. Were you cold during the night?” Cassidy swallowed hard. “A bit…” “Evan was cutting wood. You didn’t have a fire going last night?” “I’m from the city. I didn’t think of things like wood stoves, chilly nights, or even realize the house wasn’t furnished.” “I wish you would have called me, Cassie. I would have made sure you were safe and warm.” Her nickname on his lips lit up her body from the inside out. The way he spoke made her think of anything but firewood. She was certain that Garret could heat her up without any help from the wood stove. “Maybe you should stay with

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some of my men tonight. At least until you can prepare your house properly.” Cassidy wondered why he didn’t offer her the chance to stay with him. Did he live with another woman? “I’ll be fine.” As much as Garret’s crew was to die for, she wasn’t ready to play sleepover, even if it meant no wolves outside her windows and a warm bed. I won’t die without sex, she repeated in her head, finding difficulty believing it. “No. Tonight you’re sleeping where it’s safe and comfortable.” “But—” “It’s not smart to argue with the boss, Cassie. Not even my own men dare to challenge me.” He continued to use his tongue to run over his teeth, barely visible, but highly distracting. “I can be very convincing.” **** Garret wasn’t a fool. He knew allowing himself to become attracted to the new employee was a bad idea, but he couldn’t seem to stay away. Was it due to the general lack of females in the area, the fact he hadn’t had a real fuck in months, or did his wolf sense something about the girl he was too blind to see? Just after nightfall he returned to Cassie’s cabin, ready to take her over to his pack’s cabin in the woods for safekeeping. He still preferred to keep to his roots, living outdoors year-round in his wolf form. He needed the solitude from the constant voices in his head. Garret also saw it as a measure of being a man, choosing to rough it rather than spoil himself with human luxuries. Before his shifts each morning, he’d come to work early to shower and change in his personal trailer. Garret supposed he could have offered Cassie to stay there, especially since she’d be working on-site, but it was his private space, and adding a woman to his darkly masculine world would tilt it off axis.

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He’d found out that Patrick and Travis had been sniffing around her cabin at night, which was probably what she’d heard. But they could never be too safe with the wolves from the Rockford Mine out to destroy them. Their best operator and fifth pack member, Matthew, was already missing, and a new dispatcher would be a prime target to curb Gregor Mining’s production. He knocked at the entrance to her cabin and waited. She fussed with her hair after opening the door. “I’m sorry, I have no shower.” Her clothes were clean, and she looked more rested than she had earlier. “You look good.” “I’m a mess.” She moved aside to allow him entry. The place was barren, uninhabitable for a woman in its current state. If she were his, he’d make sure she had all the comforts a human could ask for. But she wasn’t. “So, you actually came back, eh?” “I keep my word.” He noticed the folded blankets in the corner. She’d slept alone on that thin bedding last night. The sight made him stop in his tracks and frown. Even though she wasn’t his responsibility, it rubbed him wrong. He decided his concern for the girl was only his human nature, nothing deeper, which satisfied him for the moment. “These friends of yours wouldn’t happen to have a shower?” He nodded, too busy absorbing everything about her to answer. Her scent was captivating, capable of turning an alpha into a quivering mess. There were no female wolf-shifters in known existence. Only the male gene carried the trait. Garret knew he’d have to choose a delicate human woman for their mate one day. It terrified him. His beast was dominant in him, making him crave aggression during sex. But if he ever took the leap, his daughters would be like their mother and his sons had a fifty percent chance of becoming wolf-shifters like him. Garret was in the prime of his life, not ready to settle down with a mate. Shifters mated for life, so when the time came, he had to take

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the commitment seriously. But there was something about this little brunette with the independent spirit that called to him. He shook off the urge to claim her. Life in Climax was complicated at best. The stability of their mine was in question due to competition and lack of staff and equipment. Matthew had been missing for nearly a month, and Garret also had to contend with wolf hunters and loggers trespassing on their land. It was no time to be thinking about women, sex, and mating. Although his cock would beg to differ, he had to keep a level head. “Is this really unnecessary?” she said. He stood in the doorway of her kitchen, arms crossed. “I’m fine on my own. With the firewood Evan cut for me, it will be much easier than last night.” “Do you even know how to start a fire?” She shrugged. “Necessity can be very motivating. I’ve survived on my own this long, I’m sure I’d figure it out.” There was something refreshing about Cassie. Although he had the urge to care for her, he also respected her independence. “Not tonight. Sometimes a person needs to know when to accept help from others.” He winked at her, understanding her need for control in her own life, but also enjoying watching her squirm. “I don’t know…” “There’s no negotiating on this, Cassie.” He took her bag and purse sitting by the wall near the entrance and headed back to his truck. “Come on. Don’t make me toss you over my shoulder.” She reluctantly followed him out into the night. Garret held the truck door open for her as she climbed up with the assistance of the running board. She had a nice, round ass. Perfect for him to sink his teeth into. “Have you eaten?” he asked once she was in her seat. It was nice to have a petite, feminine presence in his truck for a change. She took a breath. “I’m really unprepared. I’ll have to hit your grocery store tomorrow after work.” “So you haven’t eaten a proper meal. Don’t be afraid to tell me these things.” He instinctually reached out and ran the backs of his

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fingers along her jawline, but pulled back as soon as he could think better. “First I’ll drive you into town so you can grab a bite to eat at the diner, and then we’ll head to the cabin.” His pack had feasted on venison last night, so they wouldn’t be preparing a meal tonight. Cassie had to eat. The roads were already dark as they made their way into the small town of Climax. Only the hum of the engine broke through the otherwise silent cab. As much as Garret wanted to get out of his skin so he could scout the forests, look for more clues into Matthew’s whereabouts, he also wanted to suspend time. Even in awkward silence Cassie’s presence felt…right. “So, what happened to the last dispatcher?” “He quit.” “Why?” He didn’t want to lie, but also didn’t want to scare her off. “It’s not always an easy job. Some of the crew gave him a hard time, and he couldn’t stand the local wildlife. He ran back to the city.” Garret reached across the bench seat and trailed his fingers over her thigh. It was meant as a comforting gesture, but it only served to fuel his desire for her. She didn’t push him away, but parted her legs slightly. “You’re stronger than him, Cassie. The hard work, climate, or even wolves howling at your windows can’t scare you away.” “Don’t be so sure, Garret. I’ve only been here one night, and I can’t say I’m too fond of the place yet.” He loved the sound of his name on her lips. His men rarely called him by name, but it still had nothing on Cassie’s sweet, feminine cadence. “It’ll grow on you.” He pulled into the diner parking lot. The I and R were burnt out on the neon diner sign, the glow from the picture window chasing away the shadows surrounding the small one-story building. “We’re here.” Garret cut the engine, silence settling in immediately. This time it was her that shifted in her seat to face him. She touched his hand, a soft smile on her lips. “Thank you. You don’t have to do any of this. You’re my boss, not my savior…but here you

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are. I don’t know what I’d do if I had to manage everything on my own.” Her hair fell to one side, brushed smooth despite her earlier complaints about her appearance. She had big blue eyes, the kind to make any man submit with just a batting of her thick lashes. There was a mix of innocence and darkness swirling in her gaze. When she swallowed, her little pink tongue darted out to moisten her lips. He followed the movement, too tempted to lean over and kiss her hard and demanding. But Cassie was a coworker, and he had much more pressing matters on his hands now besides a potential mating. Still, the fact he ached for her confirmed that the forbidden fruit was by far the sweetest.

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Chapter Four Cassie sat at the counter to order, while Garret was still outside. He said he’d be in shortly. There had been some serious sexual energy passing between them in the truck. Her pussy chaffed in her tight jeans, her stomach all aflutter, but he never made a concrete move. The constant flirting would be the death of her, like having sex but being denied an orgasm. She wanted him to make a move, knowing she wouldn’t resist the darkly handsome foreman. Not only did his physical size and position at the mine scream power and dominance, but he radiated an inner strength that pulled her in, made her want to whimper and beg. She always went for the take-charge men, but unfortunately they were often not worth keeping. A middle-aged woman with a blonde ponytail appeared from the back kitchen. “Can I help you, darlin’?” Cassidy instantly thought of Travis and his Southern charm, doubling her discomfort and need. She took a breath and ordered her food from the menu board above the grill. “What are you doing way out here?” asked the lady. “I’m the new dispatcher at Gregor Mining.” She figured everyone in the small town would know the mine. There were several burly men in plaid jackets at the other end of the counter, who suddenly turned their attention to Cassidy. “New dispatcher, eh? You’re a brave girl taking that job,” said the waitress, pouring coffee into her mug. “Oh?” One of the men from down the counter called out, “Ain’t you ever hear the wolf stories? Hikers gone missing, mine workers snatched

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away feet from their homes. Gregor’s best man disappeared into thin air like he never existed.” She shook her head. “I don’t know much, but I’m also not one to rely on stories.” The blonde-haired waitress leaned over the counter on her elbows. Cassidy noted her teeth were stained. “You know who owns all that land north of town, don’t you? It’s owned by the Gregor Mine. You can play it anyway you want, but all the disappearances happened on their land. Makes a man, or woman, question things.” “Some say they fed that missing miner to the wolves, which is why he’s never been found,” said the man. “Make sure you don’t piss off your boss, little lady. You could be next.” Gossipy old townsfolk. She just wanted her food so she could get away from the scandalous conversations that weren’t any of her business. As she waited for her order, she felt the cold stares of the other patrons. Climax was supposed to be her new home, but she felt anything but welcomed here. It was Garret and his staff who’d shown her kindness and generosity, but they were the ones being portrayed as the bad guys. Why would they kill one of their own staff? It didn’t sit well with her. The bells on the glass door chimed as a gust of cool, evergreenscented air drifted into the diner. “You making out all right?” Garret’s voice was right next to her ear, his lips likely against her hair. She closed her eyes briefly, delighting in his presence. “I’m okay now that you’re here.” He sat beside her on a red upholstered swivelling stool. The other men no longer stared her way. Leave it to a bully to cower away when the target of their gossip showed up in the flesh. Or were they truly afraid? “Someone bother you? Let me know who.” The determined inflection in his voice made her heart leap. If she were a man, she wouldn’t want to be on the receiving end of Garret’s wrath. Just his fists were huge, easily able to drive through drywall. His hunched-over shoulders were massive, twice as wide as hers. He

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made her feel feminine and dainty, something she rarely felt working at the call center. Most of the staff there were size-zero, university students making her the old maid with the mature figure. Being away from that atmosphere, where she’d always be second best, gave Climax a new appeal. Cassidy would never stand a chance with these godly looking men back in the city. But here, she had hope of landing a man of her dreams. Forget the gossip. She had a chance at a real relationship here. She could feel it. “Everything’s fine now.” Once her food was served, she noticed that Garret watched her intently. She used her napkin to continually wipe her mouth, feeling self-conscious under his scrutinizing gaze. He even smiled as if she humored him. “Aren’t you going to have anything?” He shook his head. “I’ve already eaten.” Cassidy managed to finish her meal with some semblance of dignity even though Garret watched her the entire time as if she were the entertainment. It was unnerving. When the bill came, he snatched it up before she could even read it. She followed him out to the truck, a chorus of crickets breaking through the darkness behind the diner. “Thank you, but I could have paid that, you know?” Before he boarded the truck, he stared out into the black voids between the trees. He froze as if listening, his features set hard. It reminded her of dog sensing a threat. When he finally boarded the truck, she hurried in after him. The evening was nippy, and goose bumps formed on her exposed skin. “When you’re with me, you don’t have to worry about anything.” He looked at her through the haze of darkness in the truck cab. Only the digital display gave his face a soft, yet forbidding glow. “Not even wolves,” he said, his voice slithering down her body. She wished he’d have offered for her to stay with him. He would be the perfect man for her, albeit a bit intimidating. “Are you

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married?” she blurted out once they started driving. No sense investing herself in a man she had no hope with. “No.” “Do you live alone?” “You could say that.” She didn’t want to say anything. What she needed was the truth, the facts, more details. “The men in the diner were talking about wolf attacks. Murders. Is there any truth to that?” “A lot of things happen this deep in the wilderness.” Cassidy sighed, unwilling to argue when he clearly didn’t want to reveal anything to her. They seemed to be driving further away from civilization, the mountains looming to the right of the truck. She wanted to ask where they were going, feeling slightly on edge from the gossip and her own terrifying experience last night. Garret was foreman of the mine, but she really didn’t know him at all. The headlights cut cone-shaped patterns on the uneven road ahead of them. She braced herself, holding her breath for much of the trip. When he finally cut off the road onto a narrow path between the trees, she was sure she’d seen her last days. Then the warm glow from a small window permeated the darkness ahead, sending a calming effect through her. It was a beacon of safety from the night. “They live out here? In a cabin in the woods? Year-round?” She imagined the roads this far out would be nearly impassable in the winter months. He turned to her after cutting the engine. “Are you afraid?” Did her voice give her away? Could he sense her apprehension, or her even stronger lust? Before she could answer, there was a loud bang on the passenger window. She squealed and instinctively leapt toward Garret. His arm came around her in a protective embrace, so warm. The door opened. “Sorry to scare you, little one. We’ve been anxiously awaiting your arrival.” She remembered seeing him at the mine, but didn’t know his name. He looked like a Viking with a neat

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red goatee, chinstrap, and shaggy red hair under a toque. He had light skin, a strong jaw, and thick lips. Even with the bulky hunter’s jacket and hoodie on, she could tell he was no little boy beneath. His upper body leaned into the truck, the scent of burning cedar lingering on his coat. “What’s the matter? Don’t tell me you’re feeling like Goldilocks right now?” Garret growled behind her. “That’s Little Red Riding Hood, Patrick.” Patrick laughed, a hearty sound, his whole face lighting up when he did. He had a scruffy, bad-boy look that was all Canadian, all male. “That’s right! Doesn’t she meet the Big Bad Wolf?” “Something like that,” she said, suddenly feeling shy. Was Garret going to leave her alone here? She wanted him to stay with her, provide her with the same sense of security she had whenever he was near. “She needs sleep, warmth, and protection,” said Garret. He didn’t even exit the truck, allowing Patrick to slide her along the bench and out the door. She turned back to him with a pleading look. “I’ll see you bright and early on the jobsite, Cassie. You have nothing to worry about. My men will be on their best behavior.” She had a feeling he wouldn’t have left her at the remote cabin unless he had one hundred percent faith in his team, which provided some consolation. Patrick slammed the truck door shut and waved to Garret as he reversed his truck back down the path and out of sight. She could hear insects now, droning around them. Even the moonlight fought to reach them under the thick forest canopy. She reached out and snagged Patrick’s jacket, suddenly fearing the dark and unknown now that the bright headlights were gone. “You don’t have to be nervous with us. I promise we won’t bite unless you ask.” The humor in his voice settled her nerves somewhat. He led her to the small cottage, similar to hers a few miles down the road, only better kept.

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When they entered the cabin, she first noticed the warmth, like passing through a wall of heat compared to the nippy evening chill. At this time of year, in the late summer, the days were hot and evenings cold, extremes she’d have to get used to. The second thing she noticed was her sexy cowboy, Travis, lounging on a threadbare sofa in front of the fire. He wore only jeans, his upper body exactly as she’d imagined when he had her pinned in the office. Her gazed followed his broad shoulders and collarbones to that chiseled chest. He was golden compared to Patrick, both different, but equally desirable. There was a kettle on the woodstove, two reclining chairs, and a coffee table in the room. Everything was simplistic, rustic, no signs of female influence. Evan entered from the bedroom, bracing an arm in the entryway separating the only two rooms. His big, burly frame was surprisingly toned and lean muscled. He too only wore low-cut faded jeans, displaying the indent of his hips and thin trail of erotic hair below his navel. Evan didn’t smile. The boyish quality he revealed earlier had vanished. She looked between these three edible men, all staring at her intently. Her pussy throbbed, so achy, so needy. It was like having a box of assorted chocolates and not wanting to pick just one when they all appeared so tasty and tempting. “Thank you for cutting all that wood, Evan,” she said, wishing she had been able to thank him properly earlier. He didn’t reply. “You all live here together?” She swallowed hard. Usually others did the talking. At work in the city she was known as the shy one, but standing around idly felt even more awkward than attempting to talk to these men. “That’s right,” said Patrick, kicking off his untied work boots. He shrugged off his jacket and tugged his sweater over his head. Once just in his tight gray tank top, she noted all the tattoos spanning the length of his arms. He noticed her looking, and began to run his hands up and down his skin as if hoping to hide his ink from her. “Hope you

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don’t mind bunking with men. This ain’t the Holiday Inn, but we’ll do our best to ensure you enjoy your stay.” Where had the humor gone? His words had promises attached, and not just because she’d get fresh sheets or complimentary towels. Patrick wouldn’t take offense if she told him she needed a good, hard fucking. If any man could provide it for her, he would certainly get the job done. She tried to study his tattoos, trees and wolves and dark symbols she’d never seen. It was artistic and interested her, not to mention ink on men did wild things to her libido. “You look cold, baby doll. Come sit by the fire.” Travis patted the small space on the sofa near his waist. Did he expect her to sit up against those six-pack abs and just pretend he was an old piece of furniture? Her throat felt dry, and she froze in place. Patrick began to undress her, peeling off her coat as if she were an obstinate child. It was late. Maybe they’d let her go straight to bed where they were out of sight and mind. She had to work with these men tomorrow, so had to keep some level of professionalism between them. Didn’t she? “What do they mean?” she asked, daring to lay her palm on his forearm after he tossed her coat on a nearby chair. He hesitated, but continued to answer her. “It’s kind of like a monument on my body to show respect for the land, animals, and great cycle of life.” “Interesting…” He’d answered her sincerely. She found the opportunity to ask questions that Garret would never answer, too tempting to ignore. “Is it true Gregor Mining owns a lot of the forested land around these parts?” “Didn’t Garret talk to you about his land?” asked Evan, entering the room in a slow, deliberate stride. “No, I guess not. He’s not much of a talker, is he?” When he was only a couple feet from her, he blatantly regarded her body from top to bottom. “You’ll have to ask Garret Gregor about that.”

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“Garret Gregor? He owns the mine? I thought he was just the foreman.” Patrick put his muscled arm around her and led her to the sofa. “Evan, chill out.” He swatted Travis’s legs off the end cushions and dropped down with Cassidy. “We’re all part owners, but let’s just say that Garret is the majority shareholder.” Travis chuckled. “You’re getting diplomatic in your old age, Red.” The fire crackled, consuming the logs in the hearth. It smelled like the country, bringing up pleasant memories. She watched the flames lick the wood, shifting from orange, white, and red. Her mind was weighted down with too much. Cassidy needed sleep and a lot of it. “Did Garret give us any ground rules for our guest?” asked Travis, sitting higher in his seat. “Besides keeping her safe?” “He may have said something about best behavior, but I can’t really recall.” Patrick’s hand strayed closer until his palm was on her thigh. Did he realize his long fingers were touching between her legs, that sensitive flesh that made her quiver? “Best behavior? That depends on the guest though, and we know so little about our little visitor.” Travis dropped his legs and shuffled closer until she was sandwiched between all those taut muscles and heat. “Tell us what you want, Red Riding Hood,” said Patrick, leaning against her, his breath close to her ear as he spoke. “Can we be a little naughty tonight?” Did he actually just say that? Did they often share women in their little getaway from the world? “We should let Evan decide. He seems to love kissing Garret’s ass, so if he gives the thumbs-up, we’re good to go,” said Travis. As Patrick turned to face the back of the sofa where Evan stood, arms crossed over his thick chest, his hand skimmed so high he grazed her pussy. In a flash she felt her face flush, her heart pounded in her ears, and her stomach did flips. Was she actually considering

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getting kinky with these three strangers? Her body had certainly committed, but her brain was still fighting for decency. “You both know damn well we’re supposed to keep her warm, give her a shower, and make sure no harm comes to her. That’s it.” Travis tucked a lock of hair behind her ear. He had the bluest eyes, emphasized by the deep-golden hue of his skin. His body looked so tempting to touch in the soft cast of firelight. Would he be rough or silky under her exploring fingers? The urge to reach out and feel all those ripped muscles was a challenge to control. “Since we only have cold water, she may need a shower buddy. I promise to keep her warm and safe while I get her clean,” teased Travis. As much as she knew he was trying to rile Evan, she knew he’d also gladly do exactly what he said. Cassidy had never shared a shower with a man, and the idea was titillating. Imagining their naked, sudsy bodies rubbing up against each other in the confined space made her more desperate for release. The cabin suddenly felt too small, as if the four walls were closing in on them. “I’ve got the right mind to call Garret. You two are making fools of yourself with our special guest.” “Where is Garret?” she asked. Why did he just drop her off? Did he live far? She hoped his men could give her a better insight into the man, the foreman, who refused to open up to her even in the slightest. “Don’t worry about him now. He patrols the forest every night in search of poachers and loggers. A crew member has been missing a few weeks, and he’s determined to find him. He’s a one-man recon unit,” said Travis. “Only worry about what you want, darlin’. It’s just you and us now.” He was so close she swore he’d lean in and kiss her. Her mind was processing so many things at once. Was Garret the man who’d kidnapped or killed the hikers and miners? Who in their right mind scoured the pitch-black, wolf-infested forest in search of trespassers every night? There were more immediate concerns, too. The fact she felt ready to explode from all the stimuli building pressure in her cunt, making it

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harder to ignore their games. Patrick and Travis were both open flirts, Evan more reserved, but she could see the conflict in his eyes. If she said yes to the men on either side of her, would he join in? What am I thinking? Agreeing to let her coworkers double- or triple-team her in their lonely shack would likely haunt her until the day she died. She could already hear the diner gossip about the colossal slut who worked at Gregor Mining. Cassidy had never shared a man, never mind sculpted men like these. It was always “wham, bam, thank you ma’am,” and they were out of her life. Sex was vanilla, tasteless, and not worth the effort in her experience. “I’m not sure what I should want,” she said honestly, hoping they’d offer to convince her.

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Chapter Five Patrick might have been a wolf, but he was also a man. Surely Garret didn’t expect him to keep his hands to himself when presented with such a treasure. There was something enticing about the girl, and he’d bedded many in his days. At least once a month they’d venture to one of the larger towns with a truck stop. There were always plenty of whores willing to service the pack. Sometimes he indulged. Other times he couldn’t be bothered. It was usually Travis desperate to release his pent-up sexual aggression on one of the willing women. But this little beauty was bashful, gentle, with a sweet, sensual fragrance that succeeded in making his cock uncomfortably stiff. He’d been instantly attracted to her at the mine, but up close made a world of difference. It took all his resolve to not mount her right on the sofa, especially when he could scent her pheromones—more potent than fear to a shifter. But even though his kind was designed to mate with only human women, he had a feeling he’d break a slight thing like her. She was so fragile, strengthening his protective instincts. No wonder Garret couldn’t resist caring for her, even though he fought his natural inclination to truly enjoy her. It was up to the alpha to choose their mate. If Garret announced Cassidy would be their woman, he’d accept the decision in a heartbeat. But that man was obstinate, never enjoying the pleasures of life like the rest of them. He was obsessed with finding Matthew. As much as Patrick worried for his friend, if he hadn’t returned by now, he never would. They’d scoured every inch of forest, which had been no easy task. Occasionally they’d pick up on his scent, but lose it just as quickly. Patrick was the last man to see Matthew. They’d been

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hunting wild rabbits on one of their nightly shifts. They’d separated at the border where their land met Rockford-owned forest. Patrick never saw him again. That was weeks ago, but Garret refused to lose one of his pack, his mind a mess as he began the internal blame game. One day he’d be certain the loggers they warred with had something to do with the disappearance. Then it was the wolves from the Rockford Mine. The unknown was the worst. None of them were getting any younger, so maybe it was time for Garret to choose a mate for them. Patrick’s own natural desires for a family, a woman to call his own, tugged at him a bit more each year. But if he was denied a mate, at least he could thoroughly enjoy Cassidy tonight. That’s if Evan didn’t ruin things for them. He was sure Travis would fuck a tree if he had to, so his only concern was Evan. For some reason the overgrown wolf was loyal to a fault. He complied with orders like a beta with his tail between his legs. It was pathetic, especially when Garret never asked too much from any of them. They were more friends than leader and followers. “You can have anything you ask for,” he said. “Whatever you like.” He hoped she wanted her pussy sucked because he could already taste her on his tongue like a starved man smelling the food at a banquet. Her eyes were gorgeous, like sapphires with the firelight dancing in the mirrorlike surface. Her lips were ripe, swollen, and begging for his attention. “I–I’m not that kind of girl,” she said, her voice quivering. “What kind would that be, baby doll? The kind that enjoys the undivided attention of men? Men only interested in showing you wondrous things you’ve never experienced?” asked Travis, his fingers trailing along her jawline. “But—” “Don’t fight what you want. There’s no one here to judge you.” Patrick shot a look up to Evan, daring him to stop the progression of events now. She was giving in to them, accepting what he knew she wanted. If Evan started putting on the brakes again, he’d drag him out

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back and kick his ass. He might think those dark eyes of his hid all his illicit desires, but Patrick knew Evan wanted her just as much as he did. Travis kept going, pushing the boundaries he often tended to ignore. He slipped his hand under her shirt, holding her around the waist. “Did you have a man in the city?” he whispered against her hair. She shook her head. It pleased Patrick, knowing she was unclaimed. Living day in, day out with his pack mates, they often joked about never settling down. They were warriors of the forest, free, uninhibited. A female would only stifle their carefree ways. But in the span of a few minutes he questioned what he really wanted. “You can touch me, you know. I’m all for yours tonight, Cassidy.” Travis was turning up the charm, but in this case Patrick put up with his theatrics because he wanted desperately to share the woman between them. He hadn’t been this anxious to fuck since being a horny teenager. It was refreshing to feel all these potent emotions when their existence usually consisted of working the mine and patrolling the land. The forest was their responsibility, their duty as wolf-shifters to keep it safe from outside forces determined to see it destroyed. Northern Canada was one of the last natural refuges for their kind. But there was more to life than their legacy as a dying breed. She tentatively reached out and laid her palm on Travis’s bare shoulder. Her lips parted and heart rate increased. The poor little thing was deprived of simple pleasures. “Good girl,” said Patrick. “Hey, Evan, why don’t you come and join us. You wouldn’t leave a damsel in distress, now would you? It would be dutiful of you to ease her discomfort.” He loved all his pack mates, including Evan. It felt wrong to indulge with him watching from a distance. Besides, if he joined in, he couldn’t run and tattle to Garret that they’d fucked the new dispatcher. He didn’t need any more heat from the alpha.

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“She doesn’t look uncomfortable to me,” said Evan, strolling around the sofa. He sat on the low wooden coffee table in front of them, the wood protesting slightly from his weight. “But she is,” said Travis, the expert lady’s man. “I guarantee you her pussy’s ripe, moist, and swollen. And her tits must be achy, her nipples in need of attention. It’s cruel to watch and not service her, Evan. The gods didn’t give you that big cock just to carry around in your jeans.” They loved to toy with Evan, but there was no way he couldn’t smell her sex and crave it as much as they did. The moon was still close to full, bringing their feral desires to the surface. Cassidy’s eyes were glazed over, her body becoming more pliant with each touch, each illicit word spoken. She wanted this as much as they did, but was too good to ask for it. “I’m so hot,” she finally murmured, tugging at her collar. The fire was roaring strong in the cabin, but her heat was burning on the inside. “Let’s take this off then, eh?” He slipped her shirt up over her head, her hair fanning down over her back and shoulders once he lifted it away. She wore a black sports bra which reined in nice, full breasts. He growled, the tips of his fangs lengthening. Her skin was milky white, smooth, and feminine. Patrick wanted to devour her, but had to keep his untamed nature in check if he was to ensure she remained unharmed in their care. **** Oh, what the hell? This was every woman’s fantasy, so why not go with it? Every inch of her skin crawled with anticipation. As soon as she touched Travis, she nearly lost it. He was so hard, yet soft, his muscles tensing under her fingers. She had to control herself from sinking her nails into his skin and pulling him closer. Those damn blue eyes of his seemed to look into her soul, so seductive. Cassidy wasn’t a fool. She knew his type, but at this point, didn’t care. She’d

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worry about her job and reputation in the light of day. Right now the heat and testosterone surrounding her had her lust drunk. These were crude, rugged men that turned her pussy into molten lava. She could feel her folds slick with moisture, exactly as Travis had predicted. Patrick leaned down and kissed her collarbone, his thick lips gently grazing her skin. She reached up and tugged off his toque, his red hair spilling out in an attractive mess. He glanced up at her, just his eyes, and she swore she saw the eyes of a predator for a moment. It made her gasp, her lungs not able to take in the amount of air she needed to stay grounded. There was no turning back. She had to get fucked tonight, and hard. These men were so daring, so confident in themselves that she saw no hesitation on their part in sharing her. The mere idea began to excite her, her mind calculating all the possibilities. Travis undid the button to her jeans, and then slid the zipper down. When he slipped his flattened hand down her panties, she opened her legs slightly to give him more room. She wanted to be touched there, in her most intimate spot, the one pulsing so strong she could barely think straight. “Like I told you, Evan. She's fucking soaked through. See for yourself.” He briefly curled two fingers into her cunt. “Oh God,” she blurted, astounded by the explosion of sensation from those two, thick digits. A devilish smile appeared on his lips as he removed his hand and smelled his fingers, running them under his nose. Her words created a ripple effect of hunger, each man moving in closer, surrounding her. Evan dropped down to one knee on the floor between her legs, each hand on her thighs. He tested her muscles, squeezing, his thumbs teasing her inner thighs. “Garret never should have brought you here,” he said, little conviction in his voice. “He has too much faith in us.” Evan grew just as bold as the men on either side of her, lifting the soft cups of her sports bra over her breasts. Once exposed, she felt the slight chill in

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the air on her nipples and the three sets of appreciative eyes. Cassidy knew she had nice tits, which was a small consolation for her pathetic love life. Apparently good assets didn’t ensure a woman commitment from a man. Evan surprised her, shifting higher, covering her breast with his hot, wet mouth. He wasn’t gentle as she suspected he’d be. His calm, civilized nature fizzled away the moment he lifted her bra. Part of her was thrilled, satisfied he gave in rather than rejecting her further. Now she had all three men eager to conquer her. If she fought in this battle, she was outnumbered and would lose. Patrick wrestled with his shirt, and soon he was just as barechested as the other two. Ink, bare flesh, muscles, and scruff from all directions. How much stimuli could one woman take? “She has beautiful tits, doesn’t she?” Patrick hunched over and latched on the closest nipple. His tongue painted circles around her areola before he sucked in deep. Evan leaned back on his heel and watched. “I want a taste of her,” said Evan. He had a wild look in his eyes, a man on the edge. For someone who just claimed to want no part in her, he sure had a quick change of heart. “Slow down there, lover boy. What’s your rush?” Travis laid a hand on the other man’s shoulder for a minute which appeared to calm him somewhat. “We have all night.” All night? Cassidy imagined these studs could fuck long into the night. They were built for pleasure. She already drank in the sight of them—every muscle and dusting of masculine hair increased her desire to delve into the dark side. One night. What harm could one night cause in the great scheme of things? She knew she was trying to rationalize at the last minute because fucking these three men would probably destroy her career, ruin any chance she had with Garret, and likely force her to flee the town to save her own dignity. But it was too late. As insane as it was, she was lost to their sexual energy, their group seduction. They

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worked together like a pack of wolves, silently communicating— touching, tasting, arousing. “What are you gonna do to me?” she asked, feigning innocence. It was better than saying, “What are you waiting for?” and looking like a tramp. They kept playing with her, foreplay to the extreme, but it was too much. She was tingly all over, sensitized, and her pussy ached. “I want to bury my face in your pussy, lap at your cream,” said Evan. “Guarantee you’ll be writhing under my tongue.” She bet she would. Just those crass words were enough to send a fresh jolt of energy spiking through her lower stomach. Travis and Patrick lifted her off the cushions, giving Evan room to tug her fitted jeans down her hips and off her body. She was left in her bikini underwear, the ones covered with tiny stars and moons. It was not like she expected any man to see them or else she’d have worn something red and lacy. When both men on the sofa parted her legs, she’d never felt so exposed in all her life. She felt dirty, but loved every minute. Evan eyed between her legs like a beast to its meal. She remembered how his muscles flexed as he cut the wood at her cabin, thanklessly trying to help her. Now she admired the thick muscles bunched up on his shoulders as he prepared to strike. “Give her a taste, then she’s mine. I saw her first,” said Travis. His hand on her thigh was tight. His own control wavered, and soon he’d be the one controlling her body while the other two watched. Would they all want a turn to plunder their cocks inside her? The thought of being penetrated by each one made her delirious with anticipation. This was so unlike her, but she felt alive for the first time because of it. Evan trailed kisses on her legs, inching closer to her liquid center. When he reached the apex of her thighs, he pulled her thin panties to one side, exposing her cunt to his gaze. She watched his blond head descend lower as he settled in between her legs, his hot breath

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tantalizing her folds. His skin was so hot compared to hers, in fact all the men were well accustomed to the weather, like living furnaces. He swiped his tongue over her moist pussy lips. She tried to close her legs, but was still restrained. “Let him do this, darlin’,” said Travis. “Evan’s been an old stick-in-the-mud. You’re the first woman he’s bent the rules for.” She was flattered, wanted these men to truly want her the way she did them. Even with the darkness obscuring the forest from view beyond the curtainless windows, she felt safe in the cabin with these rustic men. They’d know how to handle themselves in an emergency. If the wolves came prowling, she’d be able to sleep tight, knowing they’d be experienced in dealing with anything nature could throw at them. Evan thrust his tongue in her cunt. She let out a throaty sigh, arching her hips forward. He certainly knew what he was doing, his tongue playful and skilled. Cassidy couldn’t believe she’d been missing this all her life, this level of pleasure. But when had she come across men like these in real life before? “She’s so responsive,” said Patrick. He nudged her face with his, his stubble scratching her skin. She wasn’t expecting the kiss or level of intimacy it carried. Cassidy had assumed this was about sex, the men fulfilling some twisted ménage fantasy because they finally had a willing victim. But Patrick’s kiss was sweet, albeit dominating. She became lost, falling, falling, falling. Her entire reality was spiraling out of control. She had a man between her legs, eating her cunt as if it were his last meal. Another massaged and suckled her tits, while the third kissed her with enough passion to make the world go away. It was like having one entity consume her body whole. Evan suddenly retreated, and bolted up to his feet. He was so tall, so built. She had to look way up to see his handsome face. Any humanity he had was no longer present. He fought with his belt and buckle. His jeans were already so low on his slim hips that he left

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little to the imagination. Still, she couldn’t wait to see what he sported behind his zipper. “Take it easy, Evan,” warned Travis. Although they all appeared to be close in age, Evan had the least self-control at the moment. He kicked off his pants, his cock dark, the veins bulging. Just the cockhead was impressive and swollen. Her pussy responded to the sight by seeping moisture and throbbing, desperate to be filled. She could feel the thin trail of fluid leaking down to her ass. The men released her legs, but she wanted more, needed more. Patrick stood up, chest to chest with Evan. “You’ll break her,” he said. “I’m not stupid.” Evan tried to push the Viking aside, a growl escaping his lips. The primitive display aroused her tenfold. Patrick shoulder butted the other man, sending him back a foot. “You’re not thinking straight either. Whatever happened to following Garret’s orders?” “Fuck it. You started this shit, so let me finish it.” Travis stood up, too. They were protecting her from a man who’d potentially fuck her so hard he’d damage her. The raw need Evan displayed didn’t scare her, but turned her on. She knew in her heart he was a good man, just as lost as she was in the lure of sex. “Leave him,” she said. All three men turned their attention to her, shocked she spoke, or perhaps because she wanted Evan despite the danger. Travis and Patrick parted ways, leaving a clear path for Evan. His eyes sobered as he stepped forward. He bent over and scooped her up like a rag doll. His arms were warm and strong, holding her high and close to his body. “I won’t hurt you,” he promised. She hoped he wouldn’t be too gentle, not tonight. It excited her to see such a big, strong man lose all faculties because he wanted to be inside her so desperately. “I’m a big girl. I think I can handle you.” She wanted it rough, never wanted anything more at the moment. Evan smirked as he

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carried her to the bedroom. He had a cute dimple in his cheek. The smile suited him. He sat her on the edge of the bed and removed her undergarments. As he lowered over her, forcing her to her back, he sucked air in through his teeth. “You’re the one, Cassidy. I know it.” She wasn’t sure what he meant, but it sounded good in the heat of the moment. “Tell me you want me,” he said as he ran the head of his cock over her wet slit, teasing and taunting. “You know I do. I’ve never needed a man more than right now.” He took in a deep breath as if keeping himself in check. “Do you want my dick inside you, filling you, stretching you?” “Oh God, just fuck me,” she whined, pulling his neck down. Cassidy became the aggressor, too eager to wait. She kissed him hard on the mouth, and he quickly took the bait, kissing back, his tongue playing with hers. If a man had a taste, he was the epitome of it. He intoxicated her. He guided his cock into her folds. She urged him on by digging her heels into his lower back. As he entered her she was rewarded with immediate gratification. She’d never had a man better endowed. He stretched her walls to a new extreme, sating the itch that had tormented her since she arrived in Climax. “You’re squeezing my cock, Cassidy. You feel like heaven.” “More,” she panted. Once buried to the hilt, he began to pump his hips. The friction stirred her lust higher, building heat and pressure in her cunt. “Mine,” he said on the cusp of a growl. He thrust harder and faster the longer they were connected. The man was strong as an ox, his cock rock hard, his stamina unrelenting. “I won’t share you.” He grabbed her hair, pulling hard enough to tilt her head. “Yes,” she muttered, savoring the sting and the fucking. This was how sex was meant to be. Not soft and forgettable, but hard and untamed.

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Maybe the sheer power of the man over her would indeed break her, but at least she’d die happy and satisfied. The only time she’d met her peak was with a battery-operated toy, not the skill of any man. Cassidy could see the two dark figures enter the room. Only the firelight from the main room brought a faint glow of light into the bedroom. Travis and Patrick were shrouded in shadows, stalking closer to the bed as Evan pummelled her pussy. She could see the outline of a proud erection, so the men must have stripped off their jeans. When the bed dipped to one side, Evan made a sound similar to a snarl, whipping his head to the side while keeping her caged within his arms. “Cool it,” said Patrick. “Pack rules, brother.” “He’s gonna blow,” said Travis with a chuckle. Clearly they weren’t threatened by the malevolent energy coming from Evan. Patrick brushed the hair off her forehead. “No, he’ll play nice. Otherwise, we’ll report him to Garret.” Evan’s body stiffened, the frown on his face softening. He was going to share her with his friends.

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Chapter Six Travis couldn’t wait to join in. Cassidy’s body called to him, a sweet invitation that went beyond words. Keeping his libido in check had always been a challenge, especially living in the remote northern town of Climax with no mate. He had to have Cassidy, had known since he first found her in the construction trailer. He’d wanted to hoist her against the wall and fill her with his cock the moment he saw her big blue eyes. Now he was drooling at the bit, desperate to spend his seed inside her. There was no way Garret would send her, literally to the wolves, without expecting Travis to make a move. His alpha knew him too well. “You’ve been having all the fun, Evan. You need to learn how to share your toys.” He knew Evan had a troubled past, as most of them did. They weren’t a blood-related pack, but lone wolves banded together, seeking refuge from a world gone mad. Together, the five of them started their own pack with Garret as the clear dominant in their group. It was an instant friendship between them, a natural connection. There were so few werewolves in the world, and the ones he knew of were spread across the globe. The Rockford wolves had become their natural enemies once they’d settled with Garret on his land. Land passed down from generations of elder wolves and entrusted to future generations to keep it virgin. It wasn’t an easy task with so many humans out to destroy it, or wolves out to steal it. The Rockford Mine was Gregor Mining’s main competition, and the wolves who worked there saw themselves as superior. They wanted the Gregor wolves gone, to move off the land. Or switch sides. They’d even offered to buy them

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out, but Garret would never agree to give up their legacy. For shifters, land and honor were everything. For Travis, sex was a close third. Evan glared at him for a long moment, then pulled away, his cock still erect as he stood at the end of the bed. “There. I’m sharing,” he said with venom in his voice. Travis didn’t wait for Patrick to make a move. He crawled over Cassidy’s body, between her parted thighs. She was already primed and swollen, so his cock slid into her pussy with ease. It felt amazing to have a woman’s cunt hug his dick. He’d waited too long to indulge himself. With the full moon testing his control, he’d been a walking time bomb lately. If nothing else, tonight would give him a reprieve from his nagging libido and perpetual blue balls. “You’re nice and tight, baby girl. Even better than I imagined you’d feel wrapped around my cock.” Having a woman’s bare flesh, moist from lovemaking, pressed against his was something he savored. She smelled like a woman, sweet and feminine—both things he rarely got to enjoy around pack mates and working at the mine. He inhaled deeply at her neckline, tempted to sink his incisors into her flesh. “What’s the matter?” she asked breathlessly. He’d stopped pumping into her, shocked by his own thoughts. How many females had he bedded over the years? Too many to count. But he’d never had the desire to mate, to mark one of them as his. It must have been due to the territorial threat Evan presented. He still stood to the side, a low growl rumbling from his chest. “Nothing, darlin’. Do you need it harder? Faster?” “Both.” She hugged his shoulders, smoothing her small hands over his back. When she lifted her head off the mattress, seeking a kiss, he turned away. Kissing was an intimacy he avoided. He was sure it would kill him to offer himself in such a way. It was so much easier to just have sex for sex’s sake, no complications, no guilt, no emotion.

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Rather he sank his head to her neckline and began to fuck her good and hard, his forearms curved under her shoulders. The bed rocked and she cried out with each upthrust. “Travis…” she cried. “Bring her to a precipice so I can join in,” said Patrick. He didn’t want to hold out on his friend like Evan had. They lived and breathed as one creature. The pack had one soul as Garret often reminded them. When they ran together as wolves, they communicated telepathically, given deeper glimpses into the heart of each man. He could never separate from the pack, which was why it was logical for them to share one woman, one mate—when the time came. Evan had his own dark issues he kept hidden from the others, just as Travis had. He’d have to get over sharing because it was supposed to be the most natural thing between pack members. They lived, ate, worked, and played together. But this was the first time they’d had a woman in their cabin. He fucked Cassidy harder, suckling her earlobe and then tonguing her erogenous zone. She was peaking. He could feel her pussy spasm radically around his cock. “Get some bacon fat,” he managed to mutter, trying to keep himself from spending inside her just yet. He wanted this night to last. As difficult as it was to admit it, there was something different about his human girl. Something intangible. When Patrick returned, he rolled them to their sides, holding one of her legs over his hip to make room for his friend. It would feel immeasurably better having another cock share her body. He could already imagine the squeeze and Cassidy’s cries as she climaxed harder than she ever had. “What are you doing?” she asked warily. “Patrick’s joining us, sweet thing. There’re three of us here tonight. You knew that.” “But…how?” He reached around her body and lightly touched her puckered little asshole. She gasped and clutched to him.

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“I can’t. We’ll take turns. Anything but that.” Her sudden rush of fear was potent. What was she so afraid of? He wasn’t sure if she was a virgin to anal sex, but assumed that was the cause of her nerves. “We’ll be gentle. It’s Patrick. He knows what he’s doing.” There was no way he’d allow Evan to mount her ass now, not with the crazy way he’d been acting tonight. She shook her head. “Please. I’m afraid. I tried that once before, and it hurt so badly.” “It’s not supposed to hurt. Whoever you were with clearly didn’t have any regard for your pleasure. I promise it will be different now. With us.” He didn’t push her though. Neither did Patrick. The other shifter sidled up along her back, kissing her shoulder blades. “Don’t worry yourself, Riding Hood. I won’t take anything you aren’t giving.” Patrick glanced at him from over her shoulder. His eyes reflected in the dark, more wolf than man. He flashed his fangs. Fuck. The strongest one amongst them was losing his humanity. “Take her pussy from behind, Red. You need it.” He slipped out of her and assisted her to her hands and knees. Travis poked his head under her arm and sucked her swaying breasts as Patrick thrust his ready cock into her pussy, doggy-style. She screamed, a cry of ecstasy, unadulterated pleasure. He slipped away to avoid being crushed by their violent movements. Evan couldn’t stay away. He climbed onto the head of the bed where Cassidy clenched the bedding in both fists to keep herself grounded as Patrick fucked her like a stallion from behind. Beads of sweat rolled down his face, spilling onto her pale back. Travis watched as the other man licked his finger and then brought it to her nether hole. He held her hip with his free hand and impaled her ass slowly. At first she jolted out of her lust-filled haze and tensed. But Patrick stilled, only pressing further in measured increments. Her breathing became more labored, and her hips swayed as if inviting him to continue. “Help her out, Evan. Give her something to amuse herself with.”

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Evan didn’t hesitate to tilt her chin up. Her wild eyes connected with his briefly, but shifted to the large cock poised near her face. “Will you?” he asked. She licked her lips and then opened her mouth for him, her body jerking each time Patrick fucked her. Cassidy sucked half his length, supporting one hand on his thigh. Her eyes were closed as she lost herself in the act, engorging herself on Evan’s thick meat. He kissed her back, admiring the feminine curve, grace, and beauty. Patrick had two fingers deep in her ass as he worked her cunt. She’d accepted the intrusion, no scent of fear lingering around her. It was time. Travis lay on the bed, his erection waving freely as the bed jostled. Patrick pulled free, continuing to stoke his cock as he knelt on the bed. Evan cupped her head in both hands now that he had her to himself. She shifted her body until sitting on her knees, giving full attention to his cock, the thick length disappearing down her throat and reemerging, over and over. “Sit on Travis’s dick, Cassidy. Look how hard he is for you.” She complied with Patrick’s request. The quiet city girl had unleashed her naughty side. There was a wanton woman underneath that sweet, sensible exterior. He loved it—a woman to match his own demanding needs. She crawled over and briefly sucked his cock before straddling him. As soon as she impaled her soaking pussy over his throbbing cock, Patrick moved in. **** When she felt Patrick’s presence behind her, his hot skin radiating onto her exposed back, she knew. He was going to try to double-team her again. She had to admit the thought now aroused, tempted, and excited her. The simple touch to that forbidden area had been electric. When he’d finger-fucked her rear entrance, he did it in a skilled manner causing her no pain.

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One of her few boyfriends from years ago had subjected her to anal sex with no lube, no preparation, and no patience. It had been one of her most scary, painful memories, and she swore she’d never attempt the act again. Or put up with a thoughtless jerk in her life. But these men changed all the rules. They’d already convinced her to do things she’d never have considered before meeting them. She had three men in this bed, all aroused and focused on her. It was like being an adult-only princess, which was better than nothing. The fantasy still satisfied the little girl in her who longed for the undivided attention of warrior-like men with the stamina of a herd of bison. She half expected to wake up and find herself on that cold pallet on the floor in her own cabin, realizing she’d been having an erotic dream. “Pinch me,” she murmured, not realizing she’d said it aloud. “I can do better than that,” said Patrick. A moment later his big, rough hand came down on her ass cheek. Smack! That wasn’t what she’d expected or asked for, but it did confirm this was real. And the sting did crazy things to her clit, which was now heating up after that one strike. God help her, but she wanted more. She began to work Travis’s erection, desperate for friction and release. Evan knelt beside Travis and loosely held her around the waist as he indulged on her breasts. He alternated between both, licking, sucking, and nipping. Then Patrick’s slippery, cool dick pressed on her tight asshole, begging for entrance. Should she try again? Create new, better memories? She was too heavy with sexual yearning to resist. “Hold me,” she told Evan. He rose up so they were face-to-face. His eyes were sympathetic now, the same ones she remembered from her cabin. He kissed her lips. “Just push back against him. Don’t hold your breath.” She held him around the shoulders like a lifeline as Patrick forced an inch of his chubby, stiff cock inside her ass. He stopped before she could protest, giving her time to adjust.

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Travis rubbed soft circles against her clit as they all waited in suspended animation. These men were unreal. They’d been heavily engaged in sexual activities for a good hour, yet they still had the wits to go slow for her, thinking of her needs first. To see these men on the street, she’d never suspect them to be courteous lovers. They were crude and rough, but still chivalrous where it counted. “You’re okay with them now?” she asked Evan as they held each other cheek to cheek. “A moment of weakness. That’s what you do to me.” He kissed the tip of her nose. “He knows we’re a package deal, baby doll. Don’t forget that. If you take one of us, you get the whole pack—me, Patrick, Evan, Garret, and even Matthew if he ever turns up again. I hope you’ll get to meet him real soon.” She chuckled, but stopped herself. Patrick was entering her again. When she clenched, he smacked the side of her ass, making her pussy weep more. Another couple inches of smooth progression thanks to whatever salve he’d used. He stopped again, showing herculean control. “You expect me to take five of you at once?” “It’s our way,” said Evan. “I should have known better than to try to keep you for myself. I blame your sweet scent. It’s enchanting.” Was this a Climax thing or just the way these particular men lived? Was the selection of women that poor that five, irresistiblelooking men had to share one female? It was unheard of, but perhaps she shouldn’t look a gift horse in the mouth. Even during their intimacy she’d thought of Garret, his quiet strength, his smoldering black eyes, and the raw power he exuded. Now Travis was trying to tell her she could have the foreman, and the rest, too. But for how long? It sounded fun, but not permanent, so no sense getting her hopes too high. By the time Patrick thrust those final inches into her ass, the tightness had greatly diminished, the initial stab of pain long forgotten. She felt pleasantly full, very full, stuffed full of two

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oversized cocks—one in her cunt, the other in her ass. She’d done it, and it hadn’t destroyed her. In fact, Patrick’s intrusion was titillating, hitting new erogenous zones, making her crave more taboo pleasures. She clenched down, squeezing her muscles until both men moaned. Her intention was to earn herself more spanks. She found a twisted base desire from the physical punishment. It had a direct correlation to her sexual pleasure. Cassidy wouldn’t break, not even from their dual invasion, so she wanted to focus on her looming orgasm. The double stimulation brought her peak racing through her like a stampede of horses. It wouldn’t take her long at all. She was still holding Evan when she realized he wasn’t included, his cock still painfully hard. “I don’t know about five, but I can take three men at once. Let me make you feel good, too,” she said against his lips. “You’re amazing,” he said. “Beautiful and unselfish.” Evan stood up on the shaky bed, bracing a hand on the ceiling. She immediately latched onto the swaying cock, savoring the silky steel between her tongue and pallet. Having his manhood in her mouth, as she brought out deep, masculine groans and growls from him, made her feel a sense of power. Somehow she knew they’d all back off if she decided she changed her mind and wanted to leave or sleep. The thought comforted her, increased her attraction to her miners. Evan’s cock swelled and pulsed in her mouth. His hand grabbed fistfuls of her hair, tight enough to make her eyes water, but she needed this. The other men had gone savage, working as a team to pump in and out of her ass and pussy like a finely tuned machine. Evan suddenly pulled away, pumping his cock furiously. “What’re you doing?” “Gonna come…” He bit his lip, working his erection, his free hand still bracing the ceiling. “Give it back to me. I want to taste you.” She reached out and snagged him, bringing his glistening cock back to her mouth. Almost instantaneously he exploded down her throat, jets of hot, tart cum

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escaping him as he grunted his release. He collapsed on the bed beside her, leaving her in the attention of the two men also close to orgasm. Their movements became more erratic, jerky, and desperate. The faster they moved, the more her clit rubbed against Travis’s coarse pubic hair, firing her blood hot. “Come, woman,” roared Patrick from behind, smacking her ass with a solid hand. His baritone startled her, so deep and demanding. She came in a blinding detonation of light and energy. Her stomach cramped deliciously, heat swirling through her body like a drug infusion. The wave of contractions that followed pulled both men to the edge and over until they were all a quivering mass of flesh on the bed. Now that the magical moment had passed, reality soon to return, the real fun would begin. Cassidy prayed the aftermath wouldn’t be as horrific as she had imagined. **** Evan awoke in the middle of night with a start, his body sweaty, his heart pounding. He sat up in the bed, uncertain where he was until he looked at the tangled limbs around him. He exhaled, the recent events filtering into his sleepy brain. There was no fire, no danger, only the three other sleeping bodies, the scent of sex still lingering in the air. Cassidy shifted, a faint sigh escaping her lips as she reached up and patted his stomach. It must have been around three in the morning by the position of the moon, the room cloaked in darkness, the firelight no longer flickering in the next room. “Evan? What’s the matter?” she whispered. He settled back next to her, tucking his arm under her neck so she could cuddle up against him. Evan kissed her forehead, feeling a sense of calm with her in his arms. “Nothing. Everything’s just fine.” He wound a lock of her hair around his finger. “I’m sorry about

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earlier. I was acting like an animal.” His wolf often got the better of him, but the territorial surge he felt for Cassidy was unlike anything he felt before. In the heat of the moment he’d been tempted to lash out and challenge his friends for her like a common wolf. He still had nightmares about that fateful day from his past. It was a memory he didn’t even share with his new pack, but they knew. How could he mask such potent emotions, a prominent scar in his mind? His brothers never judged him, and not just because they had their own dirty little secrets. Evan finally fit in and wasn’t going to blow his chance at a new beginning. He’d promised himself to follow his alpha’s lead no matter what, to keep peace between him and his pack mates. Never again would he risk the safety of others. Cassidy painted patterns over his chest with her fingertips. He smiled to himself, endeared by her innocence. “I may have bruises in the morning,” she teased. “Should we have been gentler?” “No.” Her rhythmic breathing lulled him. “You should sleep now. I won’t let anything happen to you.” Some wolves howled in the distance. He heard her intake of breath as she lifted her head slightly off his shoulder. “Did you hear that?” “Not even the creatures of the forest would dare harm you in our custody.” He kissed her temple, tugging her closer, comforting her as best he could. “What did Travis mean about sharing? He was teasing, right?” “No, but it’s not our choice to make. Garret has our best interests at heart. The five of us have been a team for as long as I can remember. It’s been hard since Matthew disappeared, like having the life blood drained from the Gregor family.” It would be impossible for her to wrap her mind around their ways. She was in the dark to the existence of shifters, as were most humans. The Natives in the reserves to the east respected the legends, which included wolf-

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shifters, and Evan always expected Garret to choose their mate from one of the tribes when the time came. What he really wanted was Cassidy. He wanted to hold on to her and never let go, but he had to keep his mouth shut. Was fate dropping his mate right in front of him—where he could touch, but not claim—just to punish him for his sins? Every time he made decisions on his own, people died. Maybe it was best for him to suffer in silence. “You’re not allowed to make your own choices? This is Canada. It’s a free country, Evan.” “Not as free as you’d think.” “So I take it we’ll pretend this never happened tomorrow?” He stroked her back, wanting to reassure her of the personal bond he felt between them, but knew it would be wrong to get her hopes up. No matter how much he wanted to claim her, it wasn’t up to him to make that call for the pack. Although Travis and Patrick had thoroughly enjoyed her, sex and love were two very different beasts. His mind warred within him. “I’ll never treat you like a stranger. If you ever need help, all you need to do is call.” “A service call? Yeah, no thanks.” She attempted to roll over, but he stilled her, pulling her closer with his arm. How could he explain to a virtual stranger, a human who didn’t live off instinct and hormonal signatures, that she just became the gravitational center of his world? His own feelings even scared him, too potent, primal. “Stop it, Cassidy. I didn’t use you. It meant more to me than sex.” She had no idea how much more. He wanted to lean into her and sink his fangs into the side of her neck, marking her as his mate. The foolish thoughts of a lost man. The tension drained from her body. “It’s okay, Evan. I never expected a happily ever after. I’m just tired.” He listened to the wolves continue their tortured cries in the night. The familiar sound soothed him. Was one of them Matthew? Were they from the Rockford Mine, out to cause trouble? Or were they just

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animals, what nature intended when it created man and beast? Right now, Evan felt like an abomination, and insignificant for not being able to commit without prior consent from the alpha.

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Chapter Seven He jogged through the darkened field until he hit the tree line. Even with the cover of night he could still see better than full humans when he was in his skin. Each step he made was too loud, dried leaves crunching under his boots, twigs snapping. Good. He wanted to be found, wanted his enemies to come out of the woodwork. Garret returned to the small town after dropping off Cassidy. He scoured the forest behind the diner, trying to come across the wolf who’d stared him down earlier. It had to be a Rockford wolf. What trouble were they getting into now? Although Climax was neutral territory, they rarely showed their faces around town. The first growl came from his left. He turned to find a set of glowing yellow eyes zeroed in on him. Despite his vulnerability, Garret had no fear. In the flash of an eye he could shift forms and challenge any threat head-on, confident in his fighting ability. “That only works on humans. You can growl and snarl all you want, I guarantee it’s not having the effect you want.” He leaned against a great oak, not wanting his back exposed. A low laugh seemed to come from everywhere at once, and then a slow, deliberate clapping of the hands. “Bravo. You must have balls of steel to come out here without your backup.” “Apparently, not you.” He could still see the other eyes around him. But after his comment, they slunk away. “Don’t waste my time. What do you want in Climax?” “You find your missing pack member? What was his name again? Was it Matthew?” The Rockford wolf stepped out into the gentle cast of moonlight.

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Garret’s fangs and claws lengthened. Any minute and he’d shift, tear the man in front of him apart limb from limb. The bastard toyed with him, using his grief as a weapon. Or mocking him because he had something do with the loss. “Play innocent all you want, Rockford, but I know you’re responsible for his disappearance.” He put a hand to his heart. “Moi? This time you’d be wrong. As much as I’d love to take responsibility for your suffering, I can’t.” “Then what the fuck are you doing here? If you have eyes for the woman I was with, you’d be smart to look the other way.” The shifter shrugged. “Later. What I want to know now is why you’ve put bear traps on your land. One of my pack was badly hurt, caught in one of your monstrous traps last night.” “I don’t put out traps. Ever. And if you say this happened on my land, what were your wolves doing on it in the first place?” “Passing through is all. But with lasting damage.” Garret was against traps. He’d campaigned against hunters who used them and forbade outside hunters on his land. With firsthand knowledge of the damage those oversized metal traps could do to an animal, he wouldn’t wish it on his worst enemy—not even the Rockford wolves. But if he found out they had something to do with Matthew’s disappearance, they’d pray for the simplicity of being caught in a trap. “I said I don’t use traps.” Garret had no clue how traps appeared on his land. The wolf could be lying, trying to take the heat off his pack for taking Matthew. He didn’t trust the Rockford wolves and never would. Garret would certainly investigate this new threat to be on the safe side. If the hunters were back to their old games, he’d deal with them swiftly, put the fear of their god back into their hearts. It seemed all of Climax was out to destroy the Gregor pack—hunters, loggers, the rival pack, and an unknown threat.

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The other wolf smirked. “I certainly hope not. Bear traps are low even for you, Gregor. It would be a shame for us to have more reason to hold a grudge.” “We’ve done nothing to your pack. You just stay on your land and we’ll stay on ours. All I want is Matthew back.” Those bastards had to have something to do with the disappearance. It was just too easy that they’d know nothing. After all the failed attempts they garnered trying to lure Matthew to their pack, they’d have to be more curious about his disappearance. They acted as if it were as natural as the dew in the morning—a sure sign of their guilt in Garret’s opinion. “If we had him that would be a gesture of war.” He winked. “The gods forbid.” The wolf retreated, walking backward without another word until he blended in with the shadows. **** Garret arrived early at the mine and went through some paperwork in the trailer. None of his staff were due to arrive for another hour. Sometimes he liked the solitude, a time to think without the thoughts of others cluttering his mind. As alpha, his telepathic gift never shut down. He was constantly connected with the four other men in his pack when in close proximity. It was one of the reasons he didn’t share a cabin with them. And the reason he sent Cassidy to spend the night in their protection. Once he made the blood bond with the other four men, uniting them as a unit, he’d begun to hear their thoughts even in human form. It had been disconcerting at first, but he’d learned to tune it out the best he could. Garret didn’t share his burden with the others. What man wanted to know he had no secrets, no privacy, no freedom even in his own head? The phone rang. He snatched it off its cradle. “Gregor Mining.” He tucked the phone between his cheek and shoulder as he continued to look at his sales sheets for the quarter.

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“I’m looking for a woman. Cassidy Lyons. I was told I might be able to find her at this number.” Garret didn’t say anything. “Hello?” The man on the line broke the brief silence. “Who told you this?” “Her lawyer said she was looking at jobs at one of the mines. I already tried the Rockford Mine, but haven’t had any luck yet.” Just hearing the name of the competition made his jaw clench. Garret was not quick to trust. The fact this male was looking for Cassidy of all people brought out his hackles. He was already on guard, not knowing who was responsible for Matthew’s disappearance. If Cassidy had wanted the stranger on the phone to know where she was, she would have told him. “I can’t help you,” he said. “Well if you hear anything, could you give her this number?” The man recited his name and a cell phone number. “Tell her it’s her brother.” Knowing he was her brother and not an old boyfriend or lover put him somewhat at ease. Why wouldn’t her own family members know where she’d moved? He was tempted to let Scott know Cassidy worked at the mine, but decided to hold off until he talked with her about it first. A lot of people came to Climax to escape the past, and his Cassie could be one of them. As he went to exit the trailer, the door swung open. Evan came in, slamming the door shut behind him. “Why’d you send her to stay with us?” he demanded, venom in his voice. “I’m no fool, Evan. Don’t deny you didn’t want her. All three of you, in fact.” He nonchalantly passed his friend and stepped out onto the gravel outside. It was a clear day, good for mining. “So you send a lamb to the wolves’ den?” “You all wanted her from the first moment you saw her. I gave you what you wanted. Don’t complain. I can still smell her on you.” “But you stayed away. Why?”

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He shrugged. Garret began to warm up the equipment and trucks for the first shift. As he climbed back down a dump truck, he came face-to-face with the man he considered his most loyal, forever subservient, pack member. There was no devotion in his eyes now, only anger, blistering and hot. “What’s the plan then? Surely you have the bigger picture in mind, Garret. Do you plan to make her our mate?” Garret scoffed. “Since when have I mentioned bringing a woman into the pack? Just call her visit a gift.” He tried to walk past Evan, but the bigger man shoved him in challenge. What should he do? It was his own fault for setting up his men. He knew Travis and Patrick wouldn’t have a problem with a one-night stand. Evan had never entered his mind as a problem. Evan’s thoughts were strong, like white lightning in Garret’s head. The crazy fool thought he was in love with the human girl. But wasn’t that why he sent Cassie to his pack in the first place—to see if there was a higher connection, to test if things could actually work between the five of them? He shook his head. Only four of them since Matthew was still missing. The sober thought reminded him that taking a life mate now would be a disservice to everyone. There was too much going on in Climax to add love bites to the mix. “Now’s not the time for a mate,” he said, adding finality to his tone. “You should have thought about that before playing the hero. Maybe if you’d had the balls to spend the night with her, we wouldn’t be having this conversation.” He dragged a hand through his blond hair, his muscles taut, ready to fight for the woman. “I can separate business and pleasure. You, apparently, cannot.” “Then where were you? Are you so special that you can go without pussy, but we can’t?” He could hear vehicles coming along the path into the mine. The staff would begin trickling in now. It was a good excuse for him not to deal with Evan. He wasn’t even sure what he was going to do

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himself, so didn’t need the added pressure. His test was both a success and failure. So far one of the three had the same instant connection to Cassie as he had. It solved nothing, only confirmed the fact that this strange woman had likely been sent by the gods, at the right time and place for them to find her. He believed in fate. But rather than be thrilled at the prospect of finding a mate, he was terrified. More responsibility when he’d already failed his men as alpha. “Not now, Evan. Don’t piss me off, I’m really not in the mood. Remember the blood bond.” Evan stormed off, climbing up to board one of the dump trucks. His pack was growing weaker rather than stronger, and Garret was desperate to bring them all back together. **** The morning had been awkward as she’d anticipated. She dressed, and then Travis and Patrick drove her to work. No words were spoken besides common greetings and mentions of weather. If only she could appreciate last night for what it was worth without yearning for more, hoping for forever. I promised not to do this to myself. She’d watched the three men dress, their bodies muscled perfection. Even as the many layers of plaid and flannel were added for a day of working out in the elements, she was aroused. There was something stimulating about a working man—work boots, roughened hands, no apologies, and a down-to-earth appeal. She’d never been attracted to all the suits in her office in the city. These were real men. Cassidy imagined they’d get jealous easily, fight for what they believed in, and she already knew they could fuck like studhorses. Why couldn’t they want her? Was she that unlovable? There had been many times when she’d felt something special between her and one of the men, something monumental. It must have been her imagination or wishful thinking.

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As she sat at the desk, she realized she didn’t know what the fuck she was supposed to do. If she went looking for Evan, Patrick, or Travis, they’d probably think she was being needy or clingy, looking for excuses to talk to them. She wouldn’t be that woman, not ever. If they wanted to keep things business from now on, she’d erase last night from her memories permanently…if only it were so simple to forget. “You’re early.” She looked up to find Garret standing in front of her desk. Was she that lost in her thoughts she hadn’t heard the whiny trailer door open? She couldn’t help but admire his dark good looks. Those haunting eyes gazed into hers. “I got a ride with a couple of your crew. I’m sorry, but I thought I was going to be given a crash course on how to do things. I don’t want to mess things up by guessing.” “Of course. I’m here to help.” He sat on the edge of the desk. “I was thinking though. What made you want to move to Climax all on your own? Don’t you have family that misses you?” He wanted to know more about her? First he handed her off to his men, then warmed up to her after she’s already participated in a ménage à quatre. Did he know? “I have no family.” Then she corrected herself. “I had a grandfather for a brief moment in time, but he’s passed on. He’s the reason I’m here. He willed me his old house.” “No siblings?” She shook her head. “I came expecting a lot more—a furnished house with a working bathroom, more amenities in town, and no wildlife on my doorstep. But I was up for the adventure no matter what I found when I got here.” There was no sense mentioning her adoption or the half brother she believed was out there somewhere. She learned people didn’t really care to know the whole bitter truth when asking questions. It was best to keep as professional and distant as possible since Garret seemed to do it so well.

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“What do you think now?” How could he fix his eyes on her for so long? She squirmed under his unblinking focus. As much as she wanted to be independent, not enslaved by her emotions, she also craved his approval. Wasn’t it only human to be wanted? “It’s tough, but it’s only been a few days. I’m sure I’ll get used to everything as I settle in.” She wasn’t going to run off with her tail between her legs like the last dispatcher. It would be hard to see all the men from last night every day and not wish for more between them, but she’d learn to live with it. “Will you be staying at my men’s cottage again tonight?” “No,” she snapped. “I think it best if I stay in my own house.” Even a cold, wood floor was preferable to staying with a bunch of playboys. From experience, she knew that burning attraction fizzled out as if rained upon after a man got sex. She’d be used goods now, yesterday’s conquest. “You’re uncomfortable. It wasn’t my intention, I promise. If it helps, I know what happened last night.” He did? How much did he know exactly? Her face felt as flush as crimson when he addressed her as if speaking of the weather, not a fucking orgy. “Who told you?” She suspected Travis. He came across as the kiss-and-tell type. The other two she wasn’t so sure about. “No one. I can smell it on you. Sex. It has a distinct aroma and you’re drenched in it.” He shifted closer, slow and sensual. Why was he doing this? “I wasn’t able to shower,” she said dismissively. “I don’t know if I’ll ever be able to with no bathroom at my place.” He smiled at her, the corners of his eyes crinkling slightly. “I have a solution to that. Come…” He stood and held out his hand. What did she have to lose? She followed him out of the working trailer to the one next to it, a bit closer to the pit. The area was already coming to life. The beeping of trucks backing up, men greeting one another, and the excavator digging into the earth.

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The other cabin wasn’t set up as an office. It looked more like a bachelor pad. “Is this where you live?” She envisioned Garret owning an expensive chalet-style home being foreman and apparently a bigtime landowner. If he lived in this simple trailer, she had him pegged all wrong. “Part-time, I suppose. It’s my private getaway.” He was right behind her as she began to explore. She dared not turn and bump into him. If she touched his hard body, she may not be able to stop. She felt like a mouse in a cage, judged for what she’d done with the crew. Only yesterday she’d dreamt of a future with Garret, but he’d never want her now. “If you don’t want me working here anymore, I understand.” It’s not like she’d let her personal life affect her job, but as foreman he had to look out for the best interest of the company…his company. “Why would you say that?” His gravelly voice slithered through her body. She turned around to face him. “You said you know what happened at the cabin.” “That? Cassie, I know my men. I didn’t expect any less.” He exhaled, a frustrated sound as he came closer. “What I didn’t anticipate was your effect on me. You’re becoming a problem.” “A problem?” Her breathing increased. Garret was everything she craved in a man. She didn’t want him to push her away. “There’s been a lot going on in Climax the past few months. It would be irresponsible of me to add another complicated layer to my life now.” He trailed a finger from her shoulder, down her arm. There was a longing in his eyes, but he held back. “Am I one of those layers?” He smiled and nudged her chin with a curled finger, a platonic gesture, a confirmation he wouldn’t pursue her even though he claimed to want her. She wouldn’t have it. Just being in his trailer had her pent up, all those orgasmic feelings from last night rushing back. “I have a private bathroom with a shower, here in my trailer. You can use it until you get things sorted out at your place.”

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A wicked idea sparked in her head. Would he be able to resist her naked and wet? Surely the big, strong foreman had some weaknesses. “Can you stay here while I use it? It’ll make me feel safer.” “Sure. There are towels in the lower cupboard.” He sat on the sofa, reclining back comfortably. **** How much willpower did she give him credit for? He could hear the water running over her body, imagine her lush curves, and soft skin. Should he give in to his desires? Add more complications to his life? Garret wanted to devote all his energy to a mate when the time came. It wouldn’t be fair to Cassie to entangle her in his life right now. Matthew had to be a priority. The other pack members seemed to give up hope weeks ago, but he wouldn’t stop searching until he knew the truth or found him, dead or alive. He’d been a misfit, trying to blend unsuccessfully in the human world until he came to Climax and found Garret so many years ago. Matthew would have adored Cassie, loved to bond with her to give him a sense of family beyond the pack. But only the gods knew what had happened to him. The door to the bathroom opened a while later, the humid steam escaping. Cassie stood in the doorway, a towel wrapped around her body, her hair heavy down her back. “Can you help me?” He cautiously rose from the sofa and made his way over to her. Once he was within her reach, she grabbed his wrist and pulled him into the cramped bathroom, closing the door behind him. “What are you doing?” “Can you help me with my hair. I’ve gone too long and it’s full of tangles.” She stood with her back to him, holding a brush in her outstretched arm. He took it from her, hooking the mass of dark hair in his free hand. Garret had never brushed a woman’s hair, or behaved

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himself when so close to a nearly naked one. His resolve was slipping by the minute. “This isn’t a good idea, Cassie. Maybe you should let Travis or Patrick do this for you.” “But I want you to do it,” she said, spinning around. She rested her forearms on his chest, playing with the small buttons. Cassie was a little siren. He could smell her need, hear her heart pattering like a rabbit’s feet. “I shouldn’t…” His cock responded, his craving battling with his common sense. She let her towel slip to her feet—her moist, naked body pressed up against the rough material of his thick vest. Cassie looked up at him with those big, ocean-blue eyes. They portrayed a mix of need and caution. She was afraid he’d reject her? If only she knew how weak she made him, how desperately he wanted to enjoy her as his pack had. “Please.” Her pleading snapped the fragile hold he had over his beast. His wolf howled within him, demanding he claim her, love her, fuck her. What harm could one encounter have? She didn’t appear distraught about last night after spending it with three of his men. As much as he should bolt out of the trailer while he could, he didn’t. Instead he ducked down, scooped each of her bare thighs in his hands and hoisted her up against the back of the door, slamming her in place. He fiddled with his belt and zipper. “You may just regret pushing me this far, little lamb.” His fucking fangs broke through his gumline, proving how pathetic he was with this particular female. He found his mark easily, Cassie’s body moist and supple. Holding his cock by the root, he thrust deep, rougher than he’d wanted to be. For the past three days he’d had a hard-on for her, but kept rationalizing why he should back off. All that pent-up desire came out in a violent rush as he fucked her hard and mercilessly against the door. “Yes,” she cried, her arms wrapped so tight around his neck he could barely breathe. Her pussy hugged his cock in a hot, snug

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embrace. He never wanted to finish, so kept thrusting until he didn’t have the power to continue. “You’re a fucking little tease, Cassie. You should be punished for tempting me like this.” His voice came out in broken fragments as he pounded into her, his hips forcing her higher against the door with each thrust. Gods, she felt good. He’d love to have time to savor her properly, spank her little white ass until it was branded red. “Garret,” she sighed. “Don’t stop.” Her breathing was erratic. She’d come soon, and he couldn’t wait to feel her cunt claiming him, milking every last drop of his seed out of his cock. His lips brushed her neck, his fangs fully extended. How easy it would be to sink his teeth into that lovely, ivory plane, taste her blood, mark her as his. But sex was one thing. He’d already crossed the line today, marking her would bond them forever. Surely he had a speck of decency left to leave her unbitten. She didn’t know what she’d be getting into. Mating with one was to mate with the entire pack. Cassie didn’t even have a clue about their wolfen heritage. He wanted her to be able to make an informed decision about the rest of her life. Fighting what his wolf wanted took all his strength and focus. He slammed into her again, bringing her to a gasping orgasm. “Garret!” she cried. She wrapped her legs tightly around his hips, her head tossed back as her pussy spasmed around his cock. It was even better than he’d imagined. When his own release came barrelling to the surface, he punched a hole through the door to spend his aggression. The stab of pain stifled the demands of his wolf and allowed him to fight the need to mark her. He growled as he filled her, the temporary bliss filtering through his veins. One thing was for certain—she was his now, mind, body, and soul. The love bite had to wait, but it was inevitable.

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Chapter Eight Travis and Patrick dropped Cassidy off at the mine, and then headed out to her cabin. There was still time until their shift started at Gregor Mining, and they wanted to take an inventory of what needed to be done at her cabin. It was a work day, so they’d be able to order the supplies needed to bring her house up to code. “Can you believe Evan last night?” said Patrick, his arm leaning out the open window. His laugh was contagious. “I didn’t even hear him take off this morning. Poor bastard.” “I’ve never seen him so intense. If Garret doesn’t make a move on Cassidy soon, I could see him going rogue just to have her.” “Nah, not Evan. He’s just feeling the lure of the new girl. It’ll pass.” Travis wasn’t so sure. He’d felt something last night, but dared not share that with Patrick. His pack mate would laugh him out of Climax for falling victim to a woman after only one night of sex. He’d never understand the deep-seated emotions Cassidy was able to unleash in him with just a look, a touch, a taste. Surely it was just the full moon playing tricks on him. Travis was a playboy for life. If Garret ever brought a woman on board, he was sure his life would begin a downward spiral. He unrolled his window, leaning his elbow out. The cool morning air blew through his hair, the scent of earth and pine filling his lungs. “What did you think of her,” he finally asked. At least he knew Evan was affected in some strange way, maybe Garret too if he sent her to them in the first place. Or maybe he was testing their loyalty to the pack.

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Patrick adjusted his toque. “She’s a beauty, no doubt about that.” “And?” “Doesn’t really matter what I think. I’m not the alpha.” Right. No sense allowing themselves to become emotionally invested in a woman that they couldn’t claim. It was up to Garret to make the choice for them. As soon as he stepped out into the hushed forest surrounding Cassidy’s cabin, his hackles went up. “You smell that?” Patrick’s usual humor vanished, leaving his face stoic and guarded. He stripped off his jacket and jeans before leaping forward, shifting into his red wolf. Fur replaced skin, and his bones morphed before his paws hit the ground. Patrick shook out his fur and then bounded off into the forest. His friend had scented it, too, an unfamiliar scent, a territorial threat. Travis stepped up on the old wooden porch with caution. Someone had definitely been here during the night. There was a piece of paper on the door. He snatched it down and read it, leaning against the banister. I’ve found you, Cassidy. I’ll always find you. But where are you? He crumbled the paper in his fist, the weight of his jaw nearly cracking his teeth. Who the fuck wanted to find her? Who was she hiding from? It didn’t make sense for a beautiful woman to isolate herself in Climax. There was nothing here, and he should know. At times the remoteness was enough to drive even a wolf-shifter to lunacy. Travis was still frozen in place when Patrick came dashing out of the underbrush, a growl beginning his shift back to his skin. He brushed his red hair off his forehead, breathless, and somber. “Someone was here last night. I don’t recognize the scent, but I don’t like it.” “A male?” “One male.”

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Travis tossed him the crumpled note. Patrick caught it in a fist and unravelled the paper. “What’s this?” “It was on the door. What do you make of it?” He was quiet for a minute. “A stalker? I’d like to see him get his filthy paws on her in our protection.” “What if she was here last night?” The thought was sobering. No way could they let her out of their sights now. “Could it be one of the Rockford wolves?” “We have to talk with Garret. Forget the renovations.” Patrick grabbed his clothes off the ground and danced into his jeans. Travis was never in such a rush to get to work. **** Cassidy felt victorious. Garret had finally given her what she wanted, and she wasn’t dissatisfied. He was a brutal, masterful lover. His cock was impressive, filling her until she was sure there wasn’t a single cell in her cunt not being rubbed raw by that enormous erection. He set her back on her feet, and she felt the broken pieces of wood on the tiled floor. She looked down and then back up at the door. “How did you manage that?” she asked. There was a hole in the door, not much smaller than her head. Garret looked strong, but he’d just torn through a wooden door like a piece of paper. She hadn’t even heard the wood splinter, so enraptured by his lovemaking. “That’s what you do to me. Did I hurt you at all?” “Only in a very good way.” Her body still hummed, warm and tingly from her orgasm. He bent down and grabbed the towel, wrapping it around her stilltrembling body. “Come on. I still have to brush your hair.” Garret sat on the sofa just outside the door, opening his legs to give her space in front of him. She molded herself between his thighs, the denim slightly scratching the sides of her bare legs.

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He started at the root, brushing down in long, smooth stokes. She was surprised how gentle he could be when he had such power locked up inside him. “Does it ever get lonely living way out here?” she asked, her eyes closed, relishing Garret’s gentle detangling of her hair. “Don’t tell me the isolation is getting to you already?” “I haven’t been alone enough yet to be lonely.” Why won’t he open up to me? “Don’t you ever think about things like marriage?” “Work keeps me busy. A couple men on my crew are married, though.” Her heart clenched. If she found out Travis, Patrick, or Evan was married she’d die. Garret chuckled, clearly sensing her concern. “Don’t worry. I wouldn’t send you to a married man for the night. Some things are still sacred to me.” So he valued marriage, which was a good sign. She just wondered how they could go year after year without the urge to connect with the opposite sex, no wives, no girlfriends. Was there something inherently wrong with the miners at Gregor Mining? “Your hair smells sweet, Cassie.” He inhaled as he held her hair to the side. His lips kissed behind her ear, then her neck. “Be patient with me,” he whispered as he continued to pepper kisses on her damp skin. The door burst open as she floated away from reality. “Garret!” Travis and Patrick shoved their way in to the small trailer. “You’ve got to be kidding me,” said Garret. He pulled her back against his chest. “It’s important,” said Travis. “We need to talk with you. Alone.” “I’ll go,” she said. “No. You’re staying.” He slipped out from under her and stood to his full height. “Tell me,” he commanded Travis. The dirty blond handed him a note. “Guess where we found this.” “Who left it?” “Don’t know, but the scent is still there. I don’t like it,” said Travis. He looked at her from the corner of his eye.

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The door opened again, and Evan’s large frame filled the entrance. He stood silently, listening, as if he knew something was amiss with his coworkers. She felt like an outsider, and very inappropriate just wearing a towel. Garret turned to her. “Are you sure you have no family, Cassie? No brother who may be looking for you?” A brother? She’d never mentioned her half brother to Garret or anyone in Climax. A few people at work in the city knew she’d been trying to find her missing family members, but that’s it. Why was he asking her now? “I may have a half brother. But I’ve never met him.” Travis looked at Patrick, and they both shook their heads. “It’s obviously someone else. Someone who means her harm.” She sat up straighter, clutching her towel to her chest. “What exactly is going on? Does that note have something to do with me?” Travis crossed his arms and paced the small space, his back to her. “Someone was at your house last night,” explained Patrick. “They left a note saying they were looking for you. That they’d always find you.” “I don’t know anyone who’d want to find me or hurt me. They must have the wrong person.” “It was addressed to you personally.” Evan bolted from the trailer, the door slamming back in place. “Fuck! Stop him before he does something stupid,” said Garret, running a hand through his hair. Travis took off after him. “Well, who would do such a thing?” she asked, standing up beside Garret. He wrapped an arm around her shoulders. “It could be a number of people. This half brother of yours, someone who knows about your inheritance, or even someone who means Gregor Mining harm.” “What inheritance? That old shack? If some nut job wants it, they can have it.” What if her brother was looking for her as she’d looked for him? What if she was destined to be the next “missing person” in

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Climax? Garret hadn’t been with her last night, and Evan had left before she woke. Could either of them be playing some twisted game with her? “You’ll stay here until we find out exactly what’s going on,” said Garret. “She can stay at our cabin. We’ll make sure no harm comes to her.” Patrick’s willingness to protect her warmed her heart. She’d wondered if Travis or Patrick cared about her at all after their night of ménage sex. Cassidy was glad she had an excuse to be with all four men without appearing needy. Yes, she wanted them, but only if they wanted her back. Just the thought of returning to their cozy little cabin in the woods sent a thrill through her body. “Tell the crew to keep a lookout for strangers. And close the main gates. The drivers will have to deal with it until I know Cassie’s safe.” Patrick headed to the door, but turned before leaving. “Don’t worry, little one, you’re in good hands.” He winked and then disappeared. Garret’s two-way radio alerted him. The garbled voice sounded, “Garret, we’ve got word that one of the loggers may have found Matthew.” “Are you sure?” “You best come up here. The northern cut zone.” Garret’s eyes were wild. He shoved the phone into his breast pocket and took her hands in his. “I’ve got to go, but don’t worry. You’ll be safe here until I get back.” “That was about your missing miner, right? Is Matthew okay?” “I was scared to ask.” He kissed her knuckles, grabbed a leather satchel from the side of the sofa and left her alone in the trailer. She’d never met Matthew, but as Travis and the others had said, she’d be expected to include him in her bed—they did everything together, including committing to one woman. She wanted that woman to be her, but wasn’t sure if all the men were in agreement.

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Cassidy hoped Garret wasn’t heading out to claim a body, or heading into a trap set by whoever was running around kidnapping and leaving creepy notes. She said a silent prayer that he’d return safely to her, along with Evan and the others. Life was certainly interesting in Climax. Cassidy only hoped she’d get her happily ever after one day and not regret her decision to take the long drive north.

End of Book 1: Surrounded by Wolves To be continued in Book 2: Garret’s Domination WWW.STACEYESPINO.COM

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Stacey Espino resides in beautiful Ontario, Canada where she is busy raising her five school-aged children. She loves being a Canadian, but could do without the brutal winters. She enjoys writing erotic romance that will have you squirming in your seat. From hardcore cowboys to alpha shifters, she has you covered! Stacey also writes alternative m/m romance as Winona Wilder.

Also by Stacey Espino Ménage Amour: Ride ‘em Hard 1: Hardcore Cowboys Ménage Amour: Ride ‘em Hard 2: Corralling the City Girl Ménage Amour: Ride ‘em Hard 3: Hogtying the Cowgirl Ménage Amour: Ride ‘em Hard 4: Her Cowboy Triple Team

For all other titles, please visit www.bookstrand.com/stacey-espino For titles by Stacey Espino writing as Winona Wilder, please visit www.bookstrand.com/winona-wilder

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