Warrior of the Past

An Ellora’s Cave Romantica Publication

www.ellorascave.com

Warrior of the Past ISBN 9781419916212 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Warrior of the Past Copyright © 2008 L.A. Day Edited by Pamela Campbell. Photography and cover art by Les Byerley. Electronic book Publication May 2008 With the exception of quotes used in reviews, this book may not be reproduced or used in whole or in part by any means existing without written permission from the publisher, Ellora’s Cave Publishing, Inc.® 1056 Home Avenue, Akron OH 44310-3502. Warning: The unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this copyrighted work is illegal. Criminal copyright infringement, including infringement without monetary gain, is investigated by the FBI and is punishable by up to 5 years in federal prison and a fine of $250,000. (http://www.fbi.gov/ipr/) This book is a work of fiction and any resemblance to persons, living or dead, or places, events or locales is purely coincidental. The characters are productions of the author’s imagination and used fictitiously.

WARRIOR OF THE PAST

L.A. Day

Trademarks Acknowledgement The author acknowledges the trademarked status and trademark owners of the following wordmarks mentioned in this work of fiction: Wal-Mart: Wal-Mart Stores, Inc.

Author Note The Yahi Indian tribe appeared to have vanished completely by the early 1900s, though there is some debate as to the exact date. Ishi, believed to be the last surviving Yahi, died in 1916. It has since been discovered that he was of mixed heritage. Although the Yahi were a sub-group of the Yana, much of their customs and beliefs are forever lost. I have embellished some of their beliefs for a creative story.

Warrior of the Past

Prologue

Tehama County, CA 1866 A thick cloud of dust and gunpowder hung in the air. From the other side of the village, Bear Claw watched helplessly as his lifelong friend, Lone Wolf, dropped to his knees. Blood spurted from a gaping wound in Lone Wolf’s back as he pitched faceforward into the dirt. A shrill cry erupted from Bear Claw’s throat as he sliced through a gold-seeker and charged. Reaching Lone Wolf’s side, he scooped up the large warrior and carried him from the chaos. The wound was bad, most likely fatal, and there was little he could do. Ripping up a moss clump, he held it to the wound. “I will get help,” Bear Claw promised before charging back into the battle. Death rained from the sky as more and more warriors fell to the ground but what hurt worse was the indiscriminate way the gold seekers fired upon the women and children. His arms grew weary but still Bear Claw battled even knowing that he was seeing the last of his Yahi clan. Bear Claw’s knife sank to the hilt in the stomach of the white-eyes in front of him. “You may have killed me Injun but yer a dead man.” In the man’s face, as death took him, Bear Claw saw the future. From the corner of his eye, Bear saw the butt of the rifle just before he felt the blow to his skull. His knees buckled as blackness engulfed him.

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Chapter One

Tehama County, CA Current day Lightning lit up the kitchen and Holly Kincaid stumbled as she reached for the kitchen drawer. As the flash diminished, she felt blindly for the flashlight. She shrieked as thunder crackled. Holding the flashlight to her pounding chest, she switched it on. Her shoulders sagged as she sighed. It was just a storm. The storm knocked out the power or blew a fuse. “Everything’s okay,” she whispered to herself. There was nothing to worry about. She chuckled harshly. Sometimes she hated this old house. The fuse box was outside and to be certain what was wrong she’d need to check it. Rattling through the drawer for extra fuses, she squared her shoulders. She wouldn’t cower in her house. She nibbled her lip. “I’m not afraid.” The flashlight dimmed and she shook it wildly. Grabbing a lighter, she lit the cranberry candle that sat on her stove. She loved the cranberry scent. It always reminded her of the holidays. This year she couldn’t wait for them to be over. Unhooking the chain lock on the backdoor, she twisted the deadbolt and pulled the slide lock. The door creaked as it opened. Holly’s lip curled. Who needed an alarm? She flashed the light right then left and right again. No movement, no cars, just cold, wet bushes. Bushes someone could hide in. “Oh get a grip.” She shook the flashlight as it dimmed once again. Now or never. Pulling the sash on her robe tight, she stepped through the door. “Shit!” She gasped grabbing at the doorframe. The wind was blowing and the painted, wooden porch was wet and slick. She’d almost busted her ass. She took a deep breath. Five steps and she was at the fuse box. She opened the metal door and turned the light toward the fuses.

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Lightning flashed, illuminating a long shadow on the porch. The shadow of a person. Turning, Holly screamed as the flashlight fell from her fingers and rolled across the crooked wooden-planked flooring. Strong arms grabbed her and a hand covered her mouth. “Silence, white woman,” a heavily accented voice grumbled. From the glimpse she’d gotten of the man she knew he was of Native American descent. She didn’t recognize him as one of Sam’s friends but she didn’t know if that scared her more or less. He half-dragged, half-carried her toward the kitchen door. Oh my god! If he got her inside, he could do anything. She trembled as a shiver rode her spine. It didn’t matter if they were inside or not. No one would hear her scream. The closest neighbor was two miles away. At the door, he hesitated. “Where is your man?” Sam must not have sent him. “Woman, I ask again. Where is your man?” “I…uh…he’s not here. He’ll b-be home soon,” Holly stuttered. The candlelight flashed on a blade in his hand. “Do not lie to me.” “I’m not… I don’t…” Holly’s voice trembled. “I don’t have a husband anymore. Please don’t hurt me.” He shoved her ahead of him through the door. Holding her by the arm, he led her through the kitchen to the family room. He looked from side to side. “Call out,” he whispered. “What?” “Call out.” “What do you want?” His hand tightened on her arm impatiently. “Hello!” There was no answer. “I told you I’m alone.” “Humph,” he snorted as he shoved her toward the couch. “White woman not move.”

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“I won’t. I promise. I don’t have much money but you can have it. My purse is in the kitchen. I have some jewelry and a DVD player.” The dark, shadowy figure, clad only in some sort of loincloth, moved toward the kitchen. She had never thought she’d help someone rob her. At this point, there wasn’t much to take anyway. She’d sold everything of value to try to pay off the back payments on the ranch. Everything her grandparents and parents had worked for would soon belong to someone else because she’d made the mistake of trusting a man. She raised a hand to her mouth to silence the scream that longed to erupt. Her trouble gaze landed on the phone. It was on the table on the other side of the room. She wasn’t sure if the lines were down or what he’d do if he caught her. She chewed her lip. Before she could act on the thought, he returned carrying the candle. Candlelight flickered, revealing dark, starkly handsome features. If not for the thin scar on his right cheek he would have been beautiful. His lips thinned as he studied her. Raising a hand, he brushed at the rivulets of water pouring from his soaked, braided hair. “You’re wet,” she said and marveled at the ridiculousness of that statement. A dark brow rose but he didn’t comment. “I can get you a towel. I could use one too.” She pulled at the snug cotton robe. Dampness plastered the thin material of the gown and robe to her frame. Her nipples pebbled under the cool material but she had no way of hiding them without drawing more attention to them. His hand holding the candle moved and she felt the heat of his gaze on her. He nodded his head in silent agreement and she rose from the couch. He stood his ground and she shivered as his presence overwhelmed her. He was right at six feet, wide shouldered and thickly muscled. Dressed as he was, he was intimidating. She wasn’t used to seeing so much muscle on display. “I’ll be right back,” she muttered as she turned her eyes from him and raced toward the bathroom. 8

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Did the white woman think he was foolish? Following on her heels, he stopped the door from closing with his forearm. “You think to trick me?” “No. I…the towels are in the linen closet behind the door.” Bear Claw stepped into the small room with the white woman. She shut the door, closing them into the small space. His gaze darted around the room that she called “bathroom”. A flowery cloth hung around a large tub. He would never understand the white-eyes’ need to haul water indoors for bathing. It seemed much easier to wash in a stream or creek. In close quarters, the white woman’s flowery scent intrigued his senses. His shaft pulsed, reminding him of an overdue need. Holding the candle, he watched as she opened a smaller door and removed two towels. She turned to face him. Soft green eyes wavered. “I wasn’t trying to do anything.” “Humph.” He took the towel she offered with his free hand. “Come. We go back to other room.” The woman offered no resistance and he followed her from the room. Setting the candle down, Bear Claw opened his towel and rubbed his head and hair. The cloth was soft and sweet-smelling. Holding the towel to his face, he inhaled the fresh scent before running the towel down his body. The white woman stood with her towel wrapped around her shoulders as she watched him. Bear Claw had never met a white woman. The few he had seen looked nothing like this woman. She was pale and thin with no paint on her face. Hair the color of fox fur fell in short, wavy curls around her face. She shivered under his gaze and rubbed the towel on her arms. “You are cold?” Bear Claw reached out with his towel and blotted the moisture in her hair. He had been in the rain much longer than she had but he dried easily since his only clothing was his breechclout and moccasins.

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“I’m fine.” A shiver shook the white woman’s frame. She nibbled her lower lip as her eyes warily watched him. To her credit, she was braver than he’d thought a white woman would be. “I not harm women. You are safe.” That was more than he could say for the gold seekers who had attacked his village but he would not lower himself to their level. He had never hurt a woman and regardless of the color of her skin, he would not start now. “Robe wet.” Pulling the tie at her waist, he slid the robe down her arms, leaving her clad in a thin gown. The material molded her slight frame and he swallowed deeply. He had been without a woman for a long time. The darker flesh of her nipples was visible through the gown. Crossing her thin arms over her chest, she trembled under his gaze. “What do you want?” “Shelter. Food. I not hurt you.” His shaft stirred at the sight of her small breasts and their pebbled tips. Clenching his jaw, he willed his body to relax. A white woman would not willingly accommodate him and he would have her no other way. “White woman safe. Warriors not harm women. Only cowards harm women.” “Okay.” She nodded and a tentative smile curled her lips. “The power is out but I could make a sandwich. Do you like ham?” He noticed the way her grass-green eyes nervously fluttered to his face and then away. Bear shrugged his shoulders. He was not used to white man’s food but he was hungry. The Yahi diet was different from that of the white man but he would try anything. “I eat sam-wich.” “Okay. I’ll need to go into the kitchen.” Bear followed the white woman to the other room and watched as she prepared food. She opened a big box and removed items. “Do you want mustard or mayo on your sandwich?” “You make how you eat.”

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“Mustard it is,” she replied. The white woman’s hand shook as she carried the food to him. The plate clattered onto the table and Bear pulled out a chair and sat down. “Sit,” he told the woman as he picked up the sam-wich. He sniffed the food before taking a bite. “Is it okay?” she asked hesitantly. Bear nodded his head as he chewed. “It good.” He smiled. “Thank you.” He chuckled as her cheeks flushed with color. “Do you want a glass of water or soda pop?” “Water.” Bear nodded and watched the white woman as she moved across the room. He narrowed his eyes. Her damp gown clung to her thin frame and rounded hips. Something about this woman called to him. She was different from the darkhaired females he had known. She turned and he diverted his eyes to his cup of water. He knew the white-eyes had hand pumps for water but he did not see one. He looked around the room. Her home was much different from the white-eyes’ cabins he had seen before. He had heard rumors of more elaborate homes but he had not seen them. He wondered how far his horse had roamed as he rode unconscious. The woman stretched her arm toward him. The cup was clear and sparkly. Bear furrowed his brow. The white man wasted much time and money making pretty things. Wrapping his hand around the cup, he brushed her fingers. She gasped and he knew she also felt the spark of awareness that flared between them. Dismissing the feeling, he took a tentative sip. The water was cold as if it had come from a fresh spring. He gulped from the cup before taking another bite of his sam-wich. “Where water come from?”

Holly blinked. “What?” Where the hell did he think water came from? “Silence.” He held up his hand. “What is that noise?” her intruder asked.

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Startled, Holly turned toward the door. Listening closely, she barely heard the sound of tires on gravel. “Somebody is here.” His knife suddenly appeared in his hand and the warrior reappeared in place of the stoic, silent companion. “Who here?” “I don’t know. It might be my ex-husband.” She shivered at the thought. “He enjoys tormenting me.” “Is he a gold-seeker?” “A what?” “Does he seek the yellow metal in the ground?” “A miner? No, he’s too lazy. He used to raise cattle,” Holly replied. He was mostly a lazy, lay-about drunk but she wasn’t going to go into that with a stranger. She jumped as a car door slammed. “Hey, bitch. Thirty more days then where ya gonna go?” The words were slurred but without a doubt belonged to Sam, her exhusband. Jumping to her feet, she considered her options. She could lock herself inside with a stranger or ask her ex-husband for help. She shivered at the thought of asking Sam for anything. Her gaze flew to her guest. He looked dangerous but she didn’t feel threatened. “Do not worry. I not let him harm you.” Holly almost laughed. This stranger cared more about her than her ex-husband ever had. Moving to the door, she threw the lock into place. It was sad to think but she preferred locking herself inside the house with a dangerous stranger than facing Sam. Backing toward the table, she sat down. “I’m talking to you!” Sam yelled. Cringing internally, she laid her head on the table and covered her ears, waiting for the latest tirade to end. Who knew what her uninvited guest thought? She wondered why she even cared.

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“I know you’re in there.” Sam banged on the door. “Open up. I won’t hurt ya. I know you’re hot for a good fuckin’ by now. What the fuck?” Sam yelled then grunted. Holly lifted her head. Her houseguest had vanished. She didn’t know if she was relieved or frightened. Another grunt from outside drew her attention and she ran to the kitchen door. It was still shut and locked. She peeked out the kitchen window. The porch light was out like the rest of the house and only a little light seeped through the heavy cloud cover. What she could see brought a smile to her lips. There was no mistaking her houseguest’s build or that of Sam as he slumped against the porch railing. Sam stumbled down the stairs muttering, “Fucking Indian, you can have her. Just know, she did me real good until I married her then it was a fight to part her skinny thighs. Fucking whore-bitch.” Holly slid down the door unable to listen to any more. Revulsion, fear and embarrassment churned in her stomach. She thought she heard another thump but she didn’t look. She just sat there with her back pressed against the door. Would it ever end? If the ranch didn’t sale in the next thirty days, she’d lose it to foreclosure. The ranch had been in her family for generations but if losing it kept Sam away from her, it might be worth it. Moccasin-covered feet stopped next to her and her eyes traveled upward. Copper skin stretched tightly over muscled thighs. She nibbled her lip as her eyes scuttled over what amounted to a loincloth then more bare skin. Lord, this man didn’t have an ounce of fat on him. Well-defined abs widened into a smooth, hairless chest. Shivering, she brushed her bare arms with her hands. She didn’t know what he was doing here. She didn’t know how he’d left or returned to the house but she was glad he’d been here. For some reason he didn’t inspire fear in her. She felt safe for the first time in a long time. “Thank you.” He inclined his dark head. “What’s your name?”

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He hesitated for a minute, as if he didn’t want to tell her. She wondered if he was a wanted man. “You call me Bear. What name white man call Little Fox?” “Are you asking my name? It’s Holly.” Bear nodded. “Hol-lee good name. I like Little Fox.” “Little Fox is a nice name.” “Your hair like fox fur.” She raised a hand to her short locks. “Oh. I remind you of a fox. I’m not sure that’s good.” She snorted. “They are supposed to be sneaky, aren’t they?” “Fox cunning and smart. They have nice fur.” Holly rubbed a hand through her hair. “You’re not planning to scalp me, are you?” She chuckled nervously. Bear’s lips twisted into a rare smile. “I not have a scalp pole. Your hair look better on head.” Holly sighed. His smile softened his face, making him appear younger. She couldn’t help but notice that he was an attractive, sexy man. She was somewhat embarrassed to realize that her body had already noticed. It had been a long time since she’d been physically attracted to a man but that was as far as it could go with this stranger. “Ththank you. What— May I ask what you are doing here?” “I need place out of storm to stay night. I leave when sun come up. No worry. I not hurt white woman.” Holly nodded her head. There was something noble, honorable looking, about her guest. “How did you get here?” “My horse bring me. Wind is in your barn. He happy to be out of rain too.” “Okay.” He reached for her hand and pulled her to her feet. “Come. You look cold.” “About my ex-husband…” Her eyes traveled to the knife strapped to his hip. “Did you…?” 14

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His hand covered the knife. “I not use knife but he not be back soon. He not know how to treat a wife. No wonder you not want to join him in his blankets.” Holly’s cheeks heated. She hated to think about Bear listening to Sam’s rant. “Do you have a wife?” His dark eyes flashed. “No.” He turned toward the living room. As he answered, she released a deep breath that she hadn’t realized she’d been holding. Lord, she didn’t know what was wrong with her tonight. She didn’t do onenight stands. It was probably just the excitement getting to her. Excitement and loneliness. It couldn’t be anything else. Picking up the candle, she followed and her eyes ran over his back. More firm, slick flesh greeted her eyes. She’d never seen a man with braids before but it looked good on him. Matted hair clumped together in one spot on the back of his head. Was it blood? “You’re hurt.” Holly reached up and gently touched the back of his head. “What happened? Did Sam do this?” He lifted his hand and brushed against her fingers. He half-turned to face her. Their eyes met and she read deep sadness in his dark eyes. “Gold-seeker hit me with rifle.” “Oh my god. He could have killed you. Are you okay?” No wonder he was confused. A blow like that could have killed him. “I am good.” “You need to sit down on the couch and let me see the injury.” Raising his brow, he smirked but complied. Pulling at the hem of her gown, Holly knelt next to him and placed the candle on the sofa table that ran behind the couch. “Sit still and let me see. Oh no. You have a huge lump and a cut back here. How long ago did this happen?” The blood was dried and the cut appeared closed. “I not sure.” “You should see a doctor.” “Warrior not see white man’s doctor.”

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Furrowing her brow, Holly glared at the stubborn man. “Bear, head injuries can be dangerous.” She didn’t mention the fact that his confusion could be a sign of a more serious injury. Gently, Holly caressed the injured area and Bear turned to face her. In their current position, his face was level with her chest and she felt his gaze through the thinness of her cotton gown. She’d long forgotten her state of dress and her breath hitched in her throat at his look. To her horror, she felt her nipples tighten and cream gather at the juncture of her thighs. She couldn’t remember the last time a man’s hungry gaze had turned her insides to mush. Frozen in place, with her breasts inches from his nose, her heart pounded. Slowly he tilted his head and lifted his eyes to meet hers. “Little Fox not worry about Bear.” “O-okay,” she stuttered. His large, warm hand lifted to her elbow. The rough pad of his thumb caressed the tender underside of her arm before he lifted it from around him. “Little Fox not touch warrior unless she want to join with him.” “Bear, I wasn’t trying to seduce you.” His dark, penetrating eyes lowered to her pebbled breasts. She crossed her arms across her chest to hide the evidence of arousal. “I’m cold.” He raised his head and she met his probing gaze. “White women do not join with savages.” His eyes filled with derision. “I don’t have sex with men I just met regardless if they are white, red, black or purple.” She wondered at his references to savages. She supposed there was still prejudice against Native American’s in some parts of the country but surely he knew how physically devastating he was. Any woman would want him, any normal woman anyway. Bear grunted as he stood and reached for a blanket off the back of the couch. “You sleep here white woman.” His tone was gruff and something inside her called out to him. 16

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“Bear, please don’t be angry.” She laid her hand on his arm. He shrugged his massive shoulders and sighed deeply. “I not angry at you.” He turned away. “Little Fox not responsible for way of white man.”

***** Little Fox tossed on the sleeping bench, muttering in her sleep. “Don’t hurt me please,” she whimpered softly. Bear rose to his feet. He would wake the white woman and save her from her night terrors. He did not mean to inspire fear in Little Fox. Kicking out, she flung the blanket off and he stopped. Long, slender legs moved restlessly. His gaze traveled to her face but stopped at chest level. One creamy breast spilled from her gown. His mouth watered at the sight of the pink, puckered tip. Hunkering down close to the sleeping female, he watched. “No,” she whimpered. “Stop it, Sam.” It pleased Bear to know he was not the cause of her fear. Brushing his fingers against the softness of her cheek, he whispered, “You are safe.” She stirred under his touch and her eyes fluttered briefly. “Bear,” she breathed his name and her lips curled upward. “It Bear. You safe.” Her hand enclosed his, holding it to her cheek. “Safe.” Holly sighed. “Don’t leave me.” Bear watched as Little Fox settled and she breathed evenly. Gently, he tried to remove his hand from her grip but her fingers tightened. Sighing, Bear stretched out next to her on the couch. Soft thighs moved against his and a peaked nipple grazed his chest. He was sure to get no sleep tonight.

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Chapter Two Tara sat up in the middle of the bed. Her heart raced at the knowledge Grandmother had imparted as she slept. “Grey.” She poked her husband in the ribs. Grey’s arms came around her, his large hand sliding up her thigh. “Um, you want me?” “I do, but not for that.” Dark eyes squinted as she turned on the bedside lamp. “I can feel him, Grey. I know he’s here.” Tara smiled at her deliciously naked husband. “What?” “Bear Claw. He’s here or somewhere close by. Grandmother told me.” “Are you sure?” Grey sat up. “For a dead witch, Grandmother is amazingly accurate. She predicted I would find you and that I was pregnant.” “True. You must find Bear before he finds trouble.” “I will. Give me a few minutes to prepare and I’ll cast a locator spell. Don’t worry. We’ll find him.” Tara eased from the bed. At six-and-a-half months pregnant, it wasn’t that easy to get around anymore. “And put some clothes on,” she told Grey. “I don’t want to be distracted during my spell.” Tara sat cross-legged within the circle of candles. Throwing her head back, she chanted a cleansing spell. “Great Goddess, hear my plea. Reveal to me what I seek. Upon this map, show me the way. It is my wish to find thee. 18

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It is my will, so it shall be.” Extending her arm over a map of the county, she opened her hand and sprinkled the dust. The dust swirled in the air. Vibrant colors danced and settled in a circular pattern. “Did it work?” Grey asked. “Yes,” Tara squealed. “Oh my god. He’s here.” She pointed at a spot on the map. “Where?” Tara lifted her finger. “Here. It’s the Kincaid Ranch. It’s just on the other side of Red Bluff.” “We have to get there before he is discovered,” Grey stated.

***** A foreign noise pulled Bear from his slumberous state. The sun was up. He wasn’t sure how long he had lain with Little Fox. His head turned toward the door. The sound was similar to the sound that had preceded Little Fox’s ex-husband’s arrival. He brushed his hand against her bare shoulder. “Little Fox, someone here.” “What?” She startled. Raising her head, she blinked. Sitting up, she gasped as she realized she was lying atop Bear with her gown askew. Tugging her gown into place, she turned accusing eyes his way. “What’s going on?” He enjoyed the sight of a disheveled Little Fox sitting astride him. He did not have time to linger or explain their position. “There is someone outside. I go see.” Wrapping his hands around her waist, he lifted her and stood. Moving down the wall, he looked out the window. A brightly colored object sat outside. While he watched, it opened. Bear drew a startled breath as a woman stepped out. It opened again and out stepped— “Lone Wolf!” Bear exclaimed as he darted to the door. He yanked on the knob. “It’s locked.” “What?”

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“Here. Let me.” Little Fox turned two knobs and the door opened. Stepping out into the bright morning sun, Bear squinted his eyes. He wasn’t mistaken. It was Lone Wolf clothed as a white man. “Lone Wolf?” A wide grin split his friend’s face. “It is I.” They each took two long strides and clasped hands. “I am glad to see you, Bear Claw.” Bear inclined his head. He looked pointedly at Lone Wolf’s side. It could not have been more than a few days since he had held a moss clump to his side. “You are well?” What he didn’t say was that he had expected that Lone Wolf had passed to the spirit world. “I am well but there is much we must discuss.” A very pregnant white woman came forward to stand next to Lone Wolf. “First, let me introduce my wife, Tara.” Lone Wolf’s eyes danced as they turned to his woman. “Tara, this is my good friend, Bear Claw.” “It is nice to meet you.” She held out a small hand and Bear took it. His eyes ran over the woman. She was attractive but she was pregnant with another man’s child. He wondered why Lone Wolf would marry a pregnant white woman. Bear nodded. “Hello, Tara.” Tara giggled and stepped forward and wrapped her arms around him. Bear stiffened and awkwardly returned her embrace. “I am so glad we found you. Grey has been so worried.” “Grey?” “Grey Wolfe is the name I took to replace Lone Wolf. It is a good name given by the Great Spirit.” Bear nodded. It was not uncommon to change a name after a vision quest. His name had changed after he’d killed a bear with just his knife and received only one claw mark upon his face. He did wonder at the quickness of the changes. Reaching up, he rubbed the back of his head. His memories were clouded. Behind him Little Fox cleared her

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throat and he turned. “Little Fox, come.” He gestured to her with his hand. “Little Fox is called Hol-lee by the white man. She gave me shelter and food.” He was pleased to notice that she had put the now dry robe on over her gown. “Hi Holly, I’m Tara.” Little Fox smiled at Grey’s woman. “It is nice to meet you, Holly, and thanks for helping my friend.” Grey smiled. “I hope he wasn’t too much trouble.” “I…it was no trouble.” Bear wondered if Grey noticed the hesitation in her words. At least she had not told them of their first meeting. “He showed up unexpectedly. He’s been hurt.” Bear did not miss the concern in her voice. “I am good.” “He’s not! He has a knot on the back of his head and he’s a little confused.” Tara laughed. “I bet he is.”

Grey chuckled. “Come. Let us talk.” He gestured at Bear and turned his gaze her way. “Do you mind if we walk over to the corral?” Grey asked Holly. “Go right ahead,” Holly replied. She watched as they walked away. Bear’s dusky skin gleamed in the morning sun. They were both very attractive men. She wondered where they were from. They stopped as they reached the corral fence and her breath hitched in her throat as Bear lifted his foot to the bottom rail. The back flap of his breechclout shifted, revealing firm muscles. “Damn,” she muttered half under her breath. Tara chuckled. “Impressive. I remember the first time I saw Grey in a clout.” “It’s uh…different.” “So, did he just knock on your door and you let him in because he was such a hottie?” Tara asked. “Not exactly. The power was out and I came outside to check the fuse box. That’s when he uh…surprised me, you might say. That reminds me, I need to check the fuse

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box. I noticed the power is back on but I’m sure it blew a fuse or two.” She stepped up on the porch and picked up her flashlight from the night before. The batteries were dead but she didn’t need it now anyway. “I really am worried about him. It’s quite a bump on his head.” Two fuses were blackened and she picked up the extras she kept in the bottom of the fuse box. “Did he say anything unusual?” She shrugged as she replaced the blown fuses. “It was a lot of little things. I think the injury affected his memory. How long has it been since Grey saw him? Was he at a powwow? He’s dressed oddly to be out riding around.” She’d wondered about the way Bear was dressed but hadn’t had the nerve to ask him about it. “I’m not sure but Grey will take care of everything. You don’t have to worry, Bear will be fine.” “At first he scared me but I soon realized he wouldn’t hurt me.” “You don’t have to worry about that. I don’t know him but I know how the—” Tara hesitated. “I know he was raised to never hurt a woman.” Holly smiled. “I know it’s silly. I don’t know him but he made me feel safe.”

“Year 2008!” Bear exclaimed and shook his head. “It is true. I’ve been here for months,” Grey said. “Our way of life is gone but we have a purpose here. It is the will of the Great Spirit.” “I not understand. I remember the gold seekers attack. They shoot everyone, even the women and children. I saw you go down. Your wound…” Bear’s words trailed off as Grey lifted the side of his shirt and he saw the scar. He saw the truth in Grey’s eyes. “I don’t understand. A gold-seeker hit me with his rifle.” Bear lifted his hand to the back of his head. “When I wake Wind brought me here.” “It is the work of the Great Spirit. I’ll explain everything I know but we need to get you home before someone gets suspicious.”

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Bear looked toward the women. He knew he shouldn’t feel an attachment for the white woman—there was no future in it. “Where is home?” Their homes and possessions were gone. The gold seekers had destroyed it all. Now he was supposed to believe his past life was over. He looked around. Much was different. The passing of many years would explain much. “We have a small house but we’re looking for a ranch like this one. Someplace we can raise children and bring others to teach them the way.” “Why me? Why I come here? How long will we stay?” “Great Spirit says warriors of the past are needed to guide the children into the future. We will go on a vision quest and you will see.” Grey turned as Tara approached. Tara grabbed Grey’s arm. “This ranch is for sale. Holly said the bank will be foreclosing within the month.” Grey looked around. “It might be what we are looking for. The Great Spirit has guided us here to this place.” Bear nodded in agreement but his eyes were on Little Fox. “Where will Little Fox go if we take her land?” “She can buy another place.” Bear grimaced. “Or she can stay here if she wants to. It will take many people to run the ranch.” “She should not be driven off her land. She should not lose her lodge because her husband did not care for her.” Bear shifted uncomfortably under Grey’s curious gaze. “A woman needs a man to care for her.” Grey winced. “You are in for it now.” “What did you say?” Grey’s woman placed her hands on her widening waist and tapped her foot. “You have much to learn about modern women, Bear. It is a different world now.”

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Bear shrugged. Women were still smaller and fragile. He’d seen Little Fox cower from her ex-husband. It might be a different world but he would still care for his woman. His gaze turned to Little Fox and their eyes met across the distance. He felt the attraction. Maybe the Great Spirit had brought them here for more than the land. “Tell me about modern women.” “We like to be treated as equals. We aren’t your servants. You can learn to cook and do laundry too.” Bear turned his eyes to Grey’s woman. He bit the inside of his jaw to stop from smiling. “I cook. Does white woman hunt and battle her enemies?” “I can if I choose.” Bear inclined his head. “I will take it from here, sweetie. Ask Holly to show you around the house,” Grey said to Tara. “Are you trying to get rid of me?” “You know I will never let you go.” “Humph.” Bear stood next to Grey as his wife waddled toward Little Fox. Bear noticed Little Fox had changed clothes and now wore a blouse and pants that hugged her slim legs. “What your advice?” “Keep them happy in your bed and they will do almost anything you ask.” Bear shrugged. “What has changed?” “Modern women like to talk about feelings.” Bear nodded. “Modern white women sleep with red man?” Grey grinned. “There is still some prejudice but most white women find tall, dark and handsome attractive. It does not hurt to be hung like a horse.” Bear snickered. “That has not changed.”

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“No but wait until you see television, bikinis, cars, refrigerators, indoor plumbing and sex toys.” “Sex toys?” That had his interest. Grey nodded. “You know how widows used to dig roots and use corn cob. Now they make sex toys and sell them.” “At trading post?” “Not exactly.” “Do all modern women have these toys?” He pictured Little Fox naked on a pile of furs. Her slim thighs parted as she stroked a thick rod into her wet canal. His shaft twitched as he imagined taking the rod from her body and thrusting into her. “I do not know.” Bear nodded. “You have other words of wisdom for living in this world?” “Do not drink what they call soda pop. It will kill you.” “It is poison?” Bear asked. “No. They drink it but it is worse than firewater.” “Little Fox offered this to me. Did she try to harm me?” Bear could not imagine Little Fox trying to kill him. “No. They think it is a wonderful treat.” Bear nodded. “What purpose of shiny red box?” “That is a car. You ride in a car. It is faster than a horse but not as fun.”

***** “Holly, your place is beautiful. Are you sure you want to sell?” Tara gushed. “I don’t want to but I don’t have a choice. My ex-husband mortgaged it to the hilt and the bank will foreclose within the month if I don’t sell.” Holly shook her head. “I was such an idiot to marry him and then let him handle everything.” “You’re not the first woman to be taken in by a scheming man.” 25

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“Maybe not but it won’t happen to me again.” “I’m sorry, Holly.” “It’s not your fault. I had the place appraised a month ago. I’ll let you all see it. You can have another done or an inspection if you are really interested in buying the ranch.” “Oh we are interested and I’m sure your appraisal will be fine.” Tara’s smile made Holly feel at ease. “The house needs work. It’s been in my family for generations and I love it but I’m not blind to its faults. My parents put most of the profits back into the breeding stock. They didn’t worry about having all the modern conveniences.” “It’s a lovely house.” “The electrical needs updating. I haven’t had the money to keep the house up since I married Sam.” Holly sighed. “I’m glad I’m selling to someone who’ll fix it up and use it as a ranch instead of turning it into a subdivision or something.” “You don’t have to worry about that. We won’t raise bulls but we’ll have horses and a camp for kids.” “I think your camp is a wonderful idea.” “So are you going to stay on and help out?” “You’d let me stay?” Holly was stunned. She didn’t think she had any chance of staying on the ranch. It wouldn’t belong to her anymore but at least she could still work at the ranch. Holly glanced over at Bear as he led his horse out of the barn. “If you’re sure it will be okay with them,” she nodded toward Bear and Grey, “I’ll stay.” “It was Bear’s idea. He didn’t want to see you lose your home.”

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Chapter Three Holly threw the covers off. Damn it! She couldn’t sleep. Grey, Tara and Bear had been staying at the ranch the last few days. The contracts had been sighed and the closing was set. Since it was a cash sale, the process was moving along quickly. Already Grey and Bear had begun renovations on the barn. She loved having company during the day. It made her feel safe but at night… She glanced at the ceiling. The rhythmic creaking from Grey and Tara’s bed frayed her nerves. It had been a long time since she’d had that type of satisfaction. She thought of the heated looks that passed between Tara and Grey. Actually, she doubted she’d ever had that type of satisfaction. She couldn’t take it any longer. Fanning her body with her gown, she crossed to the window. From the corner of her eye, she saw movement that drew her gaze. The full moon lit up Bear’s silhouette. Obviously, the sounds of the frantic coupling disturbed him too. His hair was unbraided and reached midway down his back. Reaching up, he ran both hands through the unbound length. She couldn’t hear him but she could tell by the movement of his chest muscles and rippling abs that he was taking deep breaths. Even though Grey had loaned him clothes, she’d noticed, when alone at night, he donned his clout. Holly nibbled her lip. She really shouldn’t watch him. He thought he was alone. One large hand skimmed his chest then slowly caressed his abs. He slid his hand to the side and loosened the tie of his clout. “Oh my god!” she silently mouthed. The clout fluttered to the patio floor, revealing a prominent erection. She swallowed deeply. “Damn!” she whispered. She’d never seen such masculine perfection. Bear was a big, muscled man and his cock was in proportion to the rest of him. 27

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Peeking around the curtain, Holly watched as his hand engulfed his cock. Loosely gripping his cock, his fingers stroked up and down. His other hand alternated between rubbing his lower abs and cupping his balls. Holly swallowed deeply. Her mouth was suddenly dry. Biting her lip, she leaned her forehead against the coolness of the windowpane but it didn’t cool her blood. A low moan escaped her lips as her empty pussy ached with need. She had never watched a man masturbate. She’d never wanted to, but watching Bear stirred feelings that had lain long dormant. Licking her lips, she wished she were brave enough to go to him. Lost in the erotic rhythm of his show, she pictured herself on her knees at his feet. Her hand ran across her cotton-covered stomach to her breast. She cupped herself and felt the swollen peak. In her mind, it was Bear’s hand on her breast and she stroked his massive cock. She knew he’d be hard and warm. She wondered what he’d sound like when he came. Would he call out or would he just moan? Yanking her hand from her breast, she bit down on her fingers. She was ready to come just watching him. Shifting, he spread his legs farther apart and the muscles of his thighs and ass rippled. Damn, this is so wrong to watch! But still, she could imagine those thick muscles rippling as he thrust inside her. Long black hair cascaded down his back as he threw his head backward. He was nearing completion, she could feel it. Pressed against the glass, she watched. Moving the hand from his abdomen, he reached out and braced himself on the post. He rolled to his toes and she saw rather than heard his moan of release. His tense body twisted in pleasure as he ejaculated into the grass.

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Stepping back from the window, Holly sighed. Her body tingled. She’d never sleep now.

***** “Holly, have a seat and some coffee,” Tara said as she pushed the carafe across the patio table. “It’s decaf, of course.” Tara always made decaf because of the baby. Fortunately, Grey had found a coffeepot in the tack room and had made a pot of strong, black coffee. Both men loved the brew and he had to admit the white man’s electric coffeepot was a great invention. Walking toward the table, Holly hesitated, her eyes drawn to the spot where Bear had found release last night. He straightened in his seat and awaited her reaction. As she turned, he sought her gaze and color flamed on her cheeks. He grinned and looked over his shoulder toward her bedroom window. It appeared he had given Little Fox a show last night. He hoped she had enjoyed it. “You sleep well?” Bear asked her as she took her seat. “I…uh.” She nodded. “I slept fine.” “Bear, do you want to go check out the work on the barn before we sign papers tomorrow?” He looked at his friend suspiciously. The barn was in good condition, they had already begun minor repairs. He realized Grey wanted him alone to talk about something. Bear hoped Little Fox had not complained to Tara about what she’d seen last night. Bear rose to his feet. He didn’t miss the flush on Little Fox’s cheeks as her gaze roamed quickly over him. “Little Fox, I am glad you will be staying here,” Bear said as their gazes collided. “Thank you. I’m thrilled that I can. I still think the offer you all made is too generous.”

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Before the battle with the gold seekers, he and Grey had discovered white men mining in a cave they often used while traveling. They had killed the gold seekers and left the gold in place. The cave was in what was known as the Ishi Wilderness Preserve. After communing with The Great Spirit, Grey had removed some of the gold in order to realize the goal set before them. Bear figured the blood of his Yahi brothers had earned the gold. It was, after all, on Yahi land. With money from that gold, they were purchasing Little Fox’s ranch. The mortgage was worth almost as much as the ranch but they decided to put the ranch in all their names—Grey Wolfe, Tara Wolfe, Holly Kincaid and John Bear Claw. Tara had been busy the last few days establishing an identity for him and acquiring the required documentation. For all intents and purposes he was now an American citizen. John Bear Claw was born in 1980. Nowhere on his documentation did it say he was a Yahi warrior. As far as the white man knew, the Yahi no longer existed, but the heart of a Yahi warrior beat within his chest. “A woman should not lose her home because of her husband,” Bear said grimly. “I agree,” stated Grey. “Thank you,” Holly replied. “And we will protect you if your ex-husband is foolish enough to return.” As soon as he spoke, he regretted the words. Little Fox’s expression hardened and she turned away. Bear sighed as he followed Grey to the barn. “Tara and I have been talking. We need to tell Holly the truth. She is starting to get suspicious. If she was not so distracted by you she would ask many questions,” Grey said as they entered the dim interior of the barn. “Distracted?” Bear’s spine straightened defensively. “You know! The way you two keep circling each other. Did you forget how to court a woman?” “I not forget but she not Yahi and you said I needed to hide truth.”

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“I know I did but now we need to tell her.” “What if she not accept truth?” Bear did not want to think about the possibility that Little Fox might leave. He had lost everything. He did not want to lose her. “She will accept it in time. I am sure you can persuade her.” Bear snorted. “What if she leaves? She might not want to live with two men who should be long dead and a witch.” “She will stay. If there is a problem Tara could do a reversal.” “I not want Tara to practice on Little Fox.” “Then you better polish those courting skills.”

***** Holly laughed. “Real funny! So you’re saying you’re both about one-hundredseventy years old?” “Grey not lie,” Bear replied. “I think I’ve been very accepting. I didn’t question the large amount of cash or your way of dress or speech.” “What wrong with way I dress? I speak good English.” “You’re missing the point.” “Holly, I know this is difficult,” Tara stepped between them. “There are some things that are unexplainable.” Holly shook her head. She should have known better than to trust too much. Obviously, they had all escaped the loony bin. “Have a seat.” Tara said as a chair slid away from the table. “Some things you have to see to believe.” “What the hell!” The chair spun and slid up to brush the back of her legs. “You need proof and I’ll give you proof.”

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Holly flopped into the seat and the chair began to levitate. “Ack!” A squeal escaped her lips. Bear grabbed hold of the chair to steady her. “Do not scare, Little Fox.” “It’s okay,” she said, stroking Bear’s arm as the chair set back down on four legs. Her gaze moved from Tara to Grey and then settled on Bear. “Is it true?” “Yes, but I know not why.” “Oh lord.” “Maybe we shouldn’t have told you. I don’t suppose you believed in witchcraft before I came along.” “No!” Holly snapped. “Sorry. I’m glad you told me. I hate lies. I’m just…” “Shocked?” inserted Tara. “I’m not sure what I’m thinking.” She looked down and realized she was still absently stroking Bears arm. She let go. “Sorry.” “You are good now?” Holly smiled tentatively at Bear. “I’m fine. It will just take some time for me to adjust.” Adjust! Hell, her world was rocked to the core. The three people she’d allowed to move into her house were… Her eyes scanned the three of them. Well, they were unusual.

***** “You are so handsome.” Holly stroked his back and solid muscles rippled. “You’re a big boy aren’t ya?” His head turned and he nuzzled her breast. “And frisky. Are you going to let me mount you?” She leaned forward and placed a kiss between his eyes. “This is the most male attention I’ve had in a long time.” “You wish for male attention?” Holly shrieked and stepped away from Wind. “You scared me.”

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Bear’s lips curled upward as he approached. He pinned her to the stall. “You give kiss to my horse?” “He seemed to enjoy it.” Bear nodded. “He enjoyed your touch too.” “I…” Holly hesitated. “I didn’t think there was anybody outside.” “You thought I had gone back to my bed?” “What?” His words startled her. He’d never actually mentioned that he knew she watched him as he masturbated. “I see you watch me. Why do you not come to me?” “Bear…” She felt heat rise in her cheeks. “By how many moons have you watched me pleasure myself?” “I uh…” Bear stepped closer. “You hunger for me too.” “No. I can’t.” She shook her head. She wasn’t sure she was ready for involvement with any man. So how could she consider a man from another century? “It is because of your ex-husband? Or is it because I am a savage?” “A savage? I don’t think of you that way.” He was less savage than many men she knew. “I’m just not ready. My husband was… That doesn’t matter but…” “You had no pleasure in your husband’s arms?” “I can’t do this. I can’t talk about this.” “Hiding does not help.” “I’m not ready.” “These say you ready.” Bear brushed his knuckles against the beaded tips of her breast. He pinched a nipple between his thumb and finger. Wet heat flooded her pussy. “Bear.” She shivered as he reached for the thin straps that held her gown in place. Her lowered arms allowed him to slip the straps from her shoulders. The gown

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dropped to the floor. Lacy panties were her only covering. She shivered at the look in his dark eyes. He pulled her close and his long, unbraided hair cascaded forward to brush the tips of her breasts. “Oh my,” Holly gasped as the silken strands teased her peaked nipples. Her breasts brushed against his heavily muscled chest and she nearly melted on the spot. Nervously, she licked her lips as she thought about all the reasons she shouldn’t give in to the heady passion. “You say you not ready but your body say it is.” His warm breath fanned her cheek as he spoke. “Your scent is of a woman ready to mate.” Holly gasped and clamped her damp thighs together. A dark-skinned hand cupped her left breast. “Your breasts hunger for my mouth.” “Oh my god.” His head dipped. His lips caressed the small swell of one breast. Opening his mouth, he flattened his tongue against the peak and she squealed with pleasure. Clamping her thighs tighter, she tried to stem her reaction. It felt so good but she knew better than to trust in those feelings. She’d learned a hard lesson that she wouldn’t soon forget. “I have wants. You have wants. Let me pleasure you.” “But…” “You use sex toy to satisfy need?” Bear asked. “What?” She blinked. She couldn’t have heard him correctly. “Grey say they sell sex toys now but I can give you more pleasure. I have more than a cock. I have hands, a mouth and tongue to give you pleasure.” “You discussed me with Grey? Did you search my room?” “No. Grey not say Little Fox have sex toy.”

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Crossing her arms over her chest, she could feel the heat of embarrassment color her flesh. She was a fool to think he would want her. “Were you laughing about how desperate I was and you thought you’d give me a thrill while you had the chance?” “We not laugh at you.” Bear’s dark brows pulled together as he frowned. “Stop!” she cried. “I don’t want to hear it. How long are you going to be here anyway? How long until you go back to…wherever?” Bear’s dark eyes questioned hers as he stepped backward. “Little Fox angry and I not know why. Bear not go anywhere. Great Spirit want us here.” He reached out a hand toward her. “Just stop…please. I can’t.” She slapped his hand away. “Please…” She ran, leaving her gown at his feet.

***** Bear was quiet but his head twisted from one side to the other as they strolled through Wal-Mart. She could only imagine what he thought of this place. Her ranch— she needed to quit thinking of it as hers—wasn’t the most modern place and it fascinated him. She had chuckled at his expression when he saw the merry-go-round in front of the store. Thankfully, he hadn’t tried to ride it. That would have been a sight. It was still difficult for Holly to accept but she had concluded there were many unexplained happenings in the world and this was one of them. Bear and Grey were actually Yahi warriors and Tara was a witch. Holly almost chuckled aloud. Who would believe it? It did make her wonder though. Were other fairy tales based on truth? Were there really UFO’s? Her meanderings were interrupted as two tall, blonde women sauntered toward them. Saunter, she thought, was the perfect way to describe the way they walked. Upon seeing Bear and Grey their steps slowed and their shoulders went back, pushing out their too-perky-to-be-real breasts. Stopping in the aisle, Bear turned sideways to allow

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the women to pass. Regardless of the extra room, the woman closest to Bear brushed up against him. Lifting her eyes to meet his, she cooed, “Excuse me.” From across the aisle Holly didn’t see a change in Bear’s stoic expression, though his eyes followed the duo. Who could blame him? Holly couldn’t, not when the woman was tall, voluptuous and sexy—all the things she was not. “Enjoying the show?” Tara asked as she slapped Grey on the arm. “Why do they let such women in here?” Bear asked. “Such women?” Tara arched a brow. “The whores,” Bear announced. Holly choked on a sip of pop. “Shhh!” Tara placed a finger to her lips. “They are not whores,” Grey replied. “Or at least not what you are thinking, but even if they were, it would not matter. It is a free country.” “Actually, nothing is free but everyone has rights. It’s very difficult to explain,” Holly muttered. Bear shrugged. “Where are the white man’s clothes in this trading post?” “Grey, you were supposed to be helping Bear with his English. We don’t want him to draw attention to himself. Holly, you are going to have to help him.” “Why me?” “I taught Grey and it took months to stop him from using the ‘F’ word in every sentence and he still flips people off.” “I had a good teacher.” Holly chuckled. “You not wish to help me?” Bear stopped in front of her and she nearly melted into his chocolate gaze. “I… His warm hand trailed a path up her arm. “I can…” She lost her train of thought as he took a step closer and his hand cupped the back of her head. 36

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“Your speech not so good either.” “What?” She tried to focus her thoughts. “Yoo-hoo!” Tara snapped her fingers close to their faces. “We are in the children’s section of Wal-Mart. I don’t want to be thrown out for indecency, especially if I’m not the one being indecent.

***** Though some time had passed, still Bear did not feel that he belonged in this time. He was glad to be with Grey Wolfe and his woman and he admired Little Fox greatly but his soul was not at peace. As much as he wanted Little Fox, he was torn. He feared the Great Spirit would change his mind and send him back in time. He could not allow himself to love Little Fox if he could not stay with her always. He had promised to protect her but he could not do so if he did not know his future. It was time he spoke to the Great Spirit. The two warriors sat cross-legged across the fire from each other. Bear silently contemplated the flames as Grey added another log. A dark storm rolled across the sky and thunder rumbled but not a drop of rain fell. Heavy, gray clouds billowed, forming the shape of a face. “Great Spirit, I am in need of guidance.” Bear spoke to the aberration. Your path is before you. You only need the strength to walk it. The words were spoken only within Bear’s mind. “Grey speaks of a future where the color of the skin does not matter.” It will be so. Children are the future. They must learn the true path. “I am but a warrior. How will I know the way?” A cunning fox adds to the strength of the bear, creating a powerful force. Together you will teach many. It pleased Bear that the Great Spirit acknowledged Little Fox. “Little Fox wants to walk a solitary path.” 37

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No. The right warrior will teach Little Fox to trust again. She will need a gentle touch but she will follow and support a warrior who is true. Bear nodded. It would be so. Little Fox would be his and they would work together to make the world a better place. Neither warrior spoke as they broke camp. After mounting the horses Grey asked, “Did the Great Spirit bring comfort to your thoughts?” Bear nodded. “It is as you say. We must look to the future.” “Do you have plans for the future?” Bear shrugged but could not stop his grin. “I see you place your lips on Tara’s. This brings you pleasure?” Grey laughed. “Oh yeah! And if you do it correctly, it leads to great fucking.” “Fucking?” “White man word for sex but do not use it too often or women get angry.” “Why Tara teach you words she not want you to use?” Grey shrugged. “White women the same as Yahi women. They are difficult to understand.” Bear nodded. “Tell me more of these white man words for sex.”

***** Holly stretched the clean sheets over Bear’s bed. Picking up his pillow, she squeezed and inhaled the clean, woodsy scent. Perching on the edge of the bed, she smoothed the pillowcase. Sighing, she closed her eyes and imagined lying on the bed with Bear. She shivered. As large as he was, she still sensed he would be gentle. She licked her lips as she pictured Bear as he had mounted Wind yesterday and ridden off with Grey. They’d both stripped down to their clouts before leaving on their vision quest. Holly’s heart raced. They would return soon.

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In her mind she painted a fantasy… Galloping toward her astride Wind, Bear swept her up in his arms. The horse’s hooves tattooed the ground as they raced through the flowering grasslands. Reining in the horse, they stopped along a rippling stream. Their clothes melted away as they rolled upon the ground. Firm, wet lips covered hers in a sensual, passionate kiss. His hands mapped a trail over her body and her pussy dampened with cream. She tugged at his hips. She wanted him to fill her deep and hard. A mewl of hunger erupted from her lips. A car door slammed and Holly jumped as she was hastily pulled from her thoughts. Standing, she looked out the window. “Oh no.” Sam had just stepped out of the car. Tara was walking toward him and she wouldn’t have any idea who he was. As much as she hated facing him, she couldn’t leave Tara out there by herself. Running to the back door, she opened it. “What do you want, Sam?” Holly saw Tara’s expression change as she heard the name. “Just dropping by to see my wife,” he drawled. “Ex-wife!” Holly had no idea what she’d ever seen in him. His eyes narrowed as he turned back to face Tara. “You one of the new partners I heard about?” “Yes I am.” “Humph! I heard there were two Indians and a woman buying the place. Was that your man the other night?” “Not if you’re speaking of the man that threw you off the property the other night. That was my husband’s friend.” “You need to leave, Sam. We have nothing to say to you.” “Your friend there got lucky. I’d had a few beers or I would have taught him a lesson.” “Drop it, Sam.”

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“Bitch,” he snarled at Holly before turning back to Tara. “Hope you don’t let her handle the finances. She’ll run the ranch right into the ground. She’ll spend all the profits on shoes and such.” “Really?” Tara spoke up. “I’ve seen her wardrobe. There’s not much of it.” Sam’s eyes narrowed. “You’re new around here. You don’t know how it is.” “We know the ranch belonged to Holly’s family and it didn’t start to decline until she married you.” Sam grabbed Tara’s arm, pulling her closer. “You’re a stupid bitch, just like Holly. I’m surprised your Indian husband hasn’t put you in your place. Ain’t he man enough for the job?” Grabbing his arm, Holly demanded, “Let go of her, Sam.” “Take your hands off me or you’ll be sorry.” Tara’s voice was low and steady. “What ya gonna do?” He patted Tara’s swollen stomach. Holly saw Tara’s eyes narrow and wondered what the other woman would do to Sam. From what she’d seen, she knew Tara could take care of herself but she couldn’t draw attention to her abilities. “If you don’t release me, my husband and Bear will skin you alive.” “They aren’t here right now.” Sam pressed up against Tara. “We could have some fun. I ain’t never fucked a pregnant woman.” “Fun!” Tara snorted. “You aren’t capable. You won’t be capable.” Putting a hand in the middle of Sam’s chest Tara shoved and he stumbled backward. “I will it to be true.” A swirl of wind danced around them, lifting leaves and twigs. Holly felt the energy and knew Tara’s chant was more than simple words. Sam must have felt something too or maybe it was just the thought of being unmanned. His hand dropped to his crotch and he cupped his less-than-impressive cock. “In your dreams.”

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A horse snorted and Holly spotted Bear and Grey racing across the northern pasture. Seeing her gaze, Sam pivoted and headed for his truck. “We’re not done yet. You can bet on that.” Gunning his engine, gravel shot from beneath Sam’s tires as he sped down the driveway. “Tomorrow we are applying for a DVRO,” Tara told her. “A what?” “A Domestic Violence Restraining Order. That jerk is trouble waiting to happen.” “I know,” Holly agreed as two lathered horses raced into the front yard. “What was that about?” Grey asked as he reined in his horse. “What your ex-husband want?” Bear asked as he slid off Wind’s back. Now that Sam was gone, she trembled slightly and Bear wrapped an arm around her. Snuggled against his warm, bare chest, she inhaled his musky scent. “It’s fine,” Tara answered. “We are fine.” Holly sighed and leaned into Bear’s embrace. “He wasn’t happy. He wanted me to lose the ranch.” “He’s even less happy now.” Tara giggled. Holly couldn’t help but smile. She hoped Tara’s chant worked. He deserved some comeuppance for everything he’d done. “What did you do, my little witch?” Grey asked. Tara rubbed her rounded stomach. “Me? You think I did something? I’m insulted. I don’t know how you could accuse a pregnant woman of witchery.” “I’ll be disappointed if you didn’t do something to him.” Grey’s narrowed gaze still looked down the drive where Sam’s truck had disappeared. “Let’s just say his favorite toy won’t be working for awhile.” Bear’s brow furrowed. “What favorite toy?” Grey made a gesture with his hand and said something in their native tongue. Bear blinked and stiffened. She almost chuckled as his hand lowered to cover his crotch. 41

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“Don’t worry, Bear. Keep it where it’s supposed to be and we won’t have any problems.” Tara smirked. Bear’s troubled eyes met Holly’s and she smiled. Sam’s arrival hadn’t disturbed her as much as usual. She was beginning to feel safe again surrounded by her new friends. “You, my pregnant wife, need to rest,” Grey said as he guided Tara toward the house. “Only if you’ll rest with me.” Tara batted her eyes at Grey and Holly snorted. She was more than a little jealous at the love and commitment the two of them showed for each other. “Tara good wife but she not to be crossed.” Holly thought Bear watched them rather wistfully. “You’re right about that but I like her.” A large hand cupped the back of her head, his fingers played with her short locks. “I like that she protect Little Fox when I not here.” “Did her spell make you nervous?” Bear shrugged. “Her spell take his manhood?” “She told me about a similar spell she performed once. It uh…” Holly hesitated. She didn’t want to be crude. “The man couldn’t get hard for about a month.” Bear’s brows rose. “Don’t worry, I would never ask her to do that to you.” “Even though you do not want to join with me?” His dark eyes watched her closely. “I never said I didn’t want to be with you. I’m just not ready for involvement. But I would never ask her to harm you. After all, I do like watching you perform.” Holly slapped her hand to her mouth. She couldn’t believe she’d said that aloud. Bear chuckled and shifted restlessly against her. “Maybe I not perform anymore unless Little Fox help.” “I…uh…” 42

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A hand at her hip brought her close to his body and she felt the evidence of his arousal through his clout. “We could go to barn. Grey will be busy for long time making sure his woman knows he cares.” Holly moaned. “I’m sure the bed is already creaking.” Bear chuckled. “Pile of furs not so noisy to keep whole village awake. Pile of hay quiet too.” “Bear!” she admonished as she stepped backward and he let her go. “This something you might want to know in future.” “Maybe.”

The Great Spirit had said she would learn to trust a patient warrior and Bear would learn to be patient. “You may brush Wind while I care for Grey’s horse.” “I can? How generous of you.” “Yes. Wind like you.” Bear was surprised how Wind had responded to the white woman. Little Fox had cast a spell over him and his horse. “I like him too. He’s a beautiful horse. Do you think he’d let me ride him?” Bear shrugged. “When Wind trust you, he will let you ride him.” “And how do I build his trust?” Bear’s fingers lightly trailed her arm. “Use soft words and a gentle touch and soon he will let you mount him.” “Do you believe this philosophy works on women too?” Little Fox stared pointedly at his hand on her arm. He shrugged. “Usually.” Little Fox shook her head. “I suppose it doesn’t hurt to try.” “Bear like Little Fox.”

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“Ah, the soft words and now you want your ride.” She chuckled as she reached for a towel to rub Wind down. “Bear patient. He does not want to get thrown.” Little Fox smiled. “What was it like in the past?” Pain lanced through Bear’s heart as he remembered the good times and the bad. “It was a beautiful place. The land was pure. There was much laughter in my village when I was young.” Bear sighed. “As I grew, laughter faded. The village moved much, avoiding gold seekers. There were very few Yahi left on day of last attack, most were women and children.” Rubbing the horses back, he kept his face averted. He did not want Little Fox to see his weakness. She touched his arm and he turned. “Bear, I’m so sorry.” A silent tear ran down Little Fox’s face and he brushed it away. “It not your fault.” “But if—” “It cannot be changed. Tell me of Little Fox’s life before she knew Bear.” “I was born here. My grandparents bought this ranch in 1932. I’ve never lived anywhere else. It was a wonderful place to grow up.” Little Fox’s eyes sparkled as she talked. “My grandfather passed away before I was born so my parents lived here with Grammy. We had good times.” She sighed. “I met Sam in high school. He’s three years older than I am so we didn’t have any of the same classes. We didn’t know each other except in passing.” Her eyes darted up to meet his. “I was young and stupid.” She shook her head. “Just before graduation my parents and Grammy were killed in a car accident. I was devastated and lonely. Sam was kind to me.” “He took advantage of you?” “I thought he loved me. I wanted someone to love.” Her lips thinned as she stared at the ground. “Sam wanted the ranch.”

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“Sam blind not to see you were real treasure.” Little Fox chuckled. “There’s those soft words again.” “True words. Was Sam your only man?” “My only… You mean was he my first lover?” Bear nodded. “I dated another guy in high school. We didn’t have sex but we…you know, did some stuff.” He grinned at her response. “I doubt that I want to know how many women you’ve slept with.” “I not good with numbers,” he was quick to reply. “How convenient.” Bear grabbed hold of her arm and she looked at him. “My past very far in the past. I have no other woman now.” “I wish…I wish my past was very far in the past. So far it couldn’t touch me.” “Little Fox safe with Bear,” he promised. “I know.” Little Fox sighed. “Tell me how you got your name.” Bear rubbed the scar on his cheek as he told her the story of killing a bear with just his hunting knife.

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Chapter Four Tara said Bear claimed to be able to cook but she had yet to witness his skill. She put the final layer on her pan of lasagna. At least they weren’t picky about what they ate. She couldn’t really complain. They had repaired the barn and were working on the bunkhouse. The door slammed as she slid the pan into the refrigerator. Tomorrow’s dinner was ready except for cooking. “Do you have a moment, Holly?” “Sure, Grey. What do you need?” “It’s about Bear.” “Oh. Is something wrong?” “He is a man.” Holly raised her brows. “I noticed that.” She blinked her eyes. Actually, she couldn’t miss it. “What I meant to say was, he has needs.” “Grey! What are you, his pimp?” She chuckled. “Listen. I do not want to upset you but I feel responsible for Bear. I do not want to see either of you hurt. This situation is difficult.” “Do you want me to leave?” As much as she enjoyed feeling like part of a family again, she wasn’t. If Bear was uncomfortable around her, she should go. “That is not what Bear wants. We want you to stay. Bear does not know how to court a woman in these times. He has never courted a white woman.” “Grey, I appreciate what you’re saying but that’s between me and Bear. He knows I’m not ready.”

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“I am sorry but a man will only wait so long. You saw the reaction in town the other day. Women are drawn to Bear. It has always been so.” “Your point?” Holly snapped. She had noticed the way women reacted to him and she knew she couldn’t compete. Once Bear polished his English and manners, he’d have no need for her. “If you do not want him, others will. Maybe it is for the best. I can take him to town tomorrow. He can meet other women.” “You’re right. Maybe it’s for the best.” She fumed as she headed down the hall. Typical man! Has to have immediate gratification and if not, he’ll get it elsewhere. She’d had enough of that with Sam!

“That was brilliant! Don’t you know anything about women?” Tara snorted as she stepped out of the shadowy den. “You were not complaining earlier.” Tara punched him in the arm. She wanted to biff him in the back of the head. “I meant about how we think.” “I was trying to make her jealous.” “You made it sound like all Bear was interested in was sex and if he didn’t get it from her he’d go to the next woman. Does he even know you talked to Holly about him?” Grey sighed. “No, and after that reaction I am not going to tell him. You could help the relationship along.” “Grey! That wouldn’t be right.” He shrugged. “Just nudge them a little.” “I could put a spell on them where all they want to do is fuck for a week.” “I am sure Bear would appreciate it.” Grey reached for a mug and poured some coffee. 47

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“And what about when it wears off? What if they have nothing in common and by then Holly could be pregnant.” “Shit. I just want Bear to be happy here. I want him to settle in.” He frowned at the mug in his hand. “It’s decaf. Let me have it.” Tara took the mug and added creamer. “You can’t force a relationship on them.” “They both want it. You know they do.” Grey nuzzled her neck and she spilled the creamer on the counter. “Grey!” She wiggled against him. “I think so too but you can’t force love.” “Are you sure? I think you put a love spell on me.” “You’ll grow hard and you’ll stay hard and only my touch will give you release. Eeek!” Tara squealed as Grey scooped her up in his arms. “You have put a spell on me.” Tara giggled. “There was no need. You were already hard.” “And only your touch gives me release.”

***** Bedsprings groaned as Holly flopped in the middle of the mattress. It was early evening but she wasn’t in a social mood. Holly yawned. Too many late nights! Grabbing her body pillow, she curled around it and dozed off.

“Did I tell you to buy a case of beer at the store today?” “Sam, I barely had enough money to buy essentials.” “Essentials! What’d you buy—expensive shampoo and conditioner?” He wrapped his hand in her long hair and yanked her around to face him. “Try bread, lunchmeat, egg…ouch.” Holly winced. “You’re hurting me.”

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“You waste money. You always have.” Opening a kitchen drawer, he pulled out the scissors. “I’ll fix that.” “No,” she screamed as he began hacking off her long hair. Strands of hair at least a foot long fluttered to the floor. She held back the sobs. She wouldn’t give him the satisfaction. He shoved her across the room and she fell to her knees. “Now you look like a skinny boy.” His laughter was dark and sinister. “A skinny boy waiting for me to shove my cock up his ass.”

“No.” She gasped and sat up in bed. Her heart pounded in her chest. It was over. That was a long time ago. She ran a shaky hand through her sweat-dampened hair. She had kept her hair short as a reminder of Sam’s betrayal. Not that she needed one. The hallway floorboards creaked and she glanced at the clock. It was ten o’clock and Bear was headed outside. Her heart lunged in her chest. She wanted to open her door and invite him inside. Instead, she crossed the room to the window. Tonight unlike other nights, Bear didn’t disrobe. He didn’t touch himself. Pulling out a chair, he sat down and looked out over the fields. Facing away from her, she couldn’t see his expression. She could only assume he held back, waiting for tomorrow. Grey was right, there wouldn’t be a shortage of women who wanted Bear. A silent tear ran down her cheek. She could ask him not to go but that wouldn’t be fair. She wasn’t ready for a relationship, was she? Would she ever be? Sam hadn’t broken her heart but he’d broken her spirit and damaged her pride. He’d made her afraid to trust, afraid to love. At first, he’d appeared gentle, loving and caring. The man she married had changed. A financial setback started the drinking. The drinking started the abuse. In the beginning it had been verbal but by the end it had turned physical. Her husband had retreated into a bottle and what had emerged was unrecognizable. Sometimes she still felt his fists on her body, or worse yet, his hands as he forced her to submit to his sexual demands. 49

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Life hadn’t treated her fairly. She ran a hand over her silk-covered breasts. The nipples hardened. Damn it! She was through cowering. Sam didn’t control her anymore. She wouldn’t let him win. She brushed a tear from her face. She couldn’t let Bear go without giving them a chance. Fluffing her hair in the mirror, she opened her bedroom door. The house was quiet as she headed for the backdoor. Holly hesitated. If she went out there and he turned her down, what would she do? “I can’t do this,” she whispered. “You’re not really going to let some other woman snatch him up?” Tara asked as she opened the refrigerator. Holly jumped. “Jesus, you scared me.” “Somebody needs to scare some sense into you.” Tara pulled out a gallon of milk and poured a tall glass full. “He doesn’t really want me. I’m convenient. Tomorrow…” “Go out there and talk to him. Just talk to him and tomorrow he will be right here. Don’t let him get away. If you do, you’ll regret it the rest of your life. Grey and Bear are from a different time, a simpler time, but they are good men. They are honest, hardworking, hard-loving men.” “I know but…” Holly hesitated. “Bear doesn’t have any interest in meeting other women. Grey means well but you know how men are.” Holly snorted. “That’s why I’m afraid to try again.” “I was hesitant when I first met Grey. Believe me, my experiences with men were worse than yours.” “I doubt that.” Holly couldn’t imagine anything worse than what she’d experienced. “Did you date a male witch who tried to steal your powers and in the process killed your grandmother?”

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Holly blinked. “No.” “Okay. Enough said about that. Grey has taught me there are good men left in this world. Do you want to be alone? Eventually, Bear will turn to someone else.” Holly looked toward the door. “It won’t hurt to talk to him.” “It won’t hurt at all,” Tara agreed. “Tara?” “Yeah?” “You’ll have to tell me about your grandmother.” “I will. Now go get your man.” Holly sighed and straightened her shoulders. The door closed silently behind her but she knew Bear sensed her presence. “It’s a nice night.” She rolled her eyes. Could she be any lamer? Bear snorted. Holly took a deep breath and angled another chair next to his. “What are you looking at?” “The land. It is different and yet it is the same. If I do not look at automobile, the land look much as it always did. Here on ranch the sounds are the same. In the town it is much different.” Holly nodded. She often forgot how difficult this must all be for Bear. He had lost his family, friends and his home. “You come to say goodbye?” he asked without looking at her. “Goodbye?” “Grey say you talk of leaving.” “Yes. Well, not yet. I uh…I came out here to…” Holly chewed her lip. “Don’t go tomorrow.”

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“Go?” Bear’s brow furrowed as he finally turned to face her. “I not go anywhere. Great Spirit bring me here and here I stay.” She licked her lips. “I meant that I don’t want you to go to town. I don’t want you to…” Holly’s lips trembled and she couldn’t continue. Dark eyes narrowed as he watched her. “Come.” He stood and held out his hand. “Bear?” “Do not fear me. We take walk.” “Okay.” She placed her hand in his warm grip and let him pull her to her feet. The barn door creaked as he opened it. “I’m not sure this is a good idea,” Holly whispered. “Trust me.” Holly nodded and let him lead her to a stall filled with clean hay. Shaking out a saddle blanket, he spread it on the hay. Stretching out on the blanket, he turned his hungry gaze up to meet hers. She swallowed deeply, shifting from one foot to the other. “Come,” he implored, holding out a dark hand. “Bear?” “Let me hold you.” Her knees quaked. She could do this. She wanted to do this. Gathering her gown in one hand, she knelt on the blanket.

Bear’s heart pounded as he looked at his woman. “Come here, Little Fox. I will not hurt you.” A slow smile tugged at his lips as she scooted closer and lay down next to him. “Tell me your fears so I can banish them.” “I can’t talk about it.” “Your ex-husband hurt you?”

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She nodded. “He hurt you in bed?” “Sometimes,” she whispered. “You will know only pleasure in my arms.” “Bear, I’m nervous.” “There no hurry. As sun rises your fears will fade.” A strangled cry shook her body as she hid her face in his side. Wrapping his arms around her, he gathered her slight frame to his. “You safe in my arms.” “I know,” she sniffled. Stroking her back with one hand, he buried the other in her short, wavy hair. The curls wrapped around his fingers. “Little Fox, it time you leave past behind and turn face to future.” “I want to.” “It not so hard. You have friends here. When I first learned truth, I not want to believe it. I wanted to stay in the past. This new world strange to me. I had nothing here, but your smile gave me hope.” Bear tilted her face up to meet his gaze. He wiped her tears with his thumb. “Grey take me on vision quest and I see what Great Spirit has planned. This ranch will bring together many races. The children will learn what is true, what is right.” “It sounds wonderful. I want to be a part of it.” “I saw you in my vision.” He did not tell her that in his vision she was his woman because she had to come to him of her free will.

Taking deep, even breaths she calmed her nerves. Breathing deeply, his musky scent filled her lungs. Shifting, she laid her cheek on his smooth chest. Settling her left hand on his chest, she traced a scar. “Tara said you participated in the sun dance ritual.” 53

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“Yes. The Yahi do not do this but I danced the sun dance while at a plains tribunal. Grey too.” “It must have hurt to leave such scars.” “Pain fades, scars fade, honor remains.” Bear raised a hand to his scarred cheek. “Where you see scars, my people saw badges of courage.” Holly brushed his hand away from his cheek and traced the thin scar. “Don’t think…I… The scars don’t make you less appealing.” A dark brow arched. “I’m sure you’ve been told you are very handsome. Those women at Wal-Mart wouldn’t have told you no.” “And you are beautiful, Little Fox.” Entwining their fingers, he brushed his lips against her hand. “I not want those women. They not make my heart sing.” “I feel beautiful with you.” Holly giggled. “Do I make your heart sing?” He moved their hands to his chest. “Feel my heart as it thunders like many hooves upon the ground. In my arms, you will know beauty and pleasure.” “I’m afraid.” “For now, I happy to lie next to you.” “Will you…” Her eyes fluttered away. “Look at me,” he commanded. She raised her head to meet his steady gaze. “Will I what?” “Kiss me?” A low groan escaped his lips. “I let you kiss me.” “You’ll let me?” Bear grinned. “Yes, then you feel no fear. You come to me.” “Okay.” She licked her lips. Nervously she leaned forward and barely brushed his lips with hers. “That not much of a kiss. Wind kiss better.”

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She released an anxious breath. “I’ll do better.” Leaning over Bear, she allowed her breasts to rest against his chest. “You could part your lips.” “Like this?” Bear asked. His lips opened slightly. She nodded. “I’ve heard that some Native American men don’t kiss their women. Did you?” His lips curled at the corners. “Not on the lips.” “Oh.” She blinked as his words sunk in. “Teach me,” he requested in a husky voice. Lowering her head, their lips meshed. His were firm and warm. Her tongue crept out to lick his full lower lip and his mouth opened wider. Grasping the back of her head, his tongue met hers. Bear’s dominance emerged as his tongue followed hers and quickly took possession of her mouth. Gasping for breath, she broke their lips apart. “For someone who never kissed before, you are very good at it.” “I never kiss woman on mouth. I kissed women on other lips.” “I…oh. You must have a lot of experience.” She closed her eyes, feeling like a blithering idiot. “I have women.” She was sure he had. “Did you have a special woman before you…uh…came here?” “I not have wife or promised woman.” Holly nodded. “No more talk of past. We both move forward.” “Yes.” She wanted to move forward. “I want more practice kissing.”

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“You don’t need practice. You could teach me.” “I practice.” Holding her by the back of the head, he merged their lips. Gasping she opened her mouth and met his tongue. A purr rumbled in her throat. He tasted of coffee and chocolate and she couldn’t get enough. Opening her mouth wider, she encouraged the deep, hot plunder of his tongue. Tugging her to lie full length on top of him, she couldn’t miss the feel of his aroused cock pressing into her stomach. She shifted atop him. She’d never been so hot, horny…hungry. She swallowed around the thrust of his tongue and suckled the turgid flesh much as she’d like to suck other needy flesh. Her hands ran down his chest to his stomach and his abs rippled under her touch. “Little Fox, you must stop now unless you want me to take you.” “I don’t want to stop. I want to see…I want to see you touch yourself the way you did outside my window.” “Little Fox!” he groaned her name. “Please. I have to start somewhere. I don’t want to be afraid.” “Untie my clout.” Holly hesitated as doubt momentarily clouded her mind. Shaking her head, she cleared her thoughts. “If you want to see me, untie my clout.” Her hands shook but she wouldn’t back down, not now. She untied the right and then left side of his clout. He lifted his hips. “Slide it free.” “Oh lord,” she muttered. Bronze skin, a shade lighter than the rest of his body, covered his lower stomach. His cock rose with the loosened clout and she was hesitant to remove it totally. A large dark hand closed over hers and pulled the material from her grasp. “This is what you want to see.” His thick cock protruded, proud and free.

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“Oh my.” His cock was large and thick. Up close, it was much larger than she’d thought when she had watched him masturbate. His hand wrapped around the heavy length. “You wish to see me stroke my rod?” “I…I…” She nodded. “It’s so beautiful to see. Your face is full of pleasure and—” “You want to see me defenseless?” Her hand covered his. “You’re not defenseless. I can’t tell you how I feel watching you. Is that wrong?” “If it brings you pleasure, it is not wrong.” “It will bring me pleasure. I love to watch you. I feel alive. I feel whole.” “Touch me,” he moaned. Holly licked her lips. She wanted to touch him. Watching him touch himself was… Oh lord, she couldn’t hold back any longer. Reaching out, she touched one finger to the pearl of moisture dotting the eye of his cock. “Little Fox!” His loose-fisted grip tightened. “Please do not torture me.” Heavy-lidded eyes watched as her thumb rode the slit of his cock head and her fingers enclosed the fleshy tip. Hot, spongy skin covered steel. She whimpered then released a nervous, shaky laugh. She’d never wanted anything so much. “Bear,” she cried out. “Let me please you,” he pleaded. “No. I’m not… Just come for me please, just let me watch you.” Growling, Bear fisted his cock in a firm, rapid grip. His splayed thighs revealed his heavy sac and without a thought she cupped him. Lightly, she rolled his balls in her hand. Roaring out words she didn’t understand, Bear came. Steams of cum covered his abs and her gown but she didn’t care. He collapsed back onto the blanket and she rolled on top of him meeting his lips in a hot, hungry kiss.

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Bear tugged at her gown, raising it over her hips, chest and finally over her head. Pulling her lips from his he set her up as his eyes perused her nakedness. Holly felt her skin heat under his gaze. She was thin but the look in his eyes said he found her attractive. Sitting atop him, she was surprised to feel his cock hardening so quickly. “Little Fox very beautiful.” Large hands slid from her waist across her ribs to cup her breasts. Rolling her beneath him, she expected him to take her. She wanted him to take her. She was wet and ready. His fingers trailed her thigh and she parted her legs, silently begging for his touch. “Little Fox want to fuck?” His fingers teasingly stroked the curls on her mound. Holly chuckled huskily. Obviously, he’d taken lessons from Grey. “I want you.” Bear released a low moan as one finger dipped into her slit, finding her wet, protruding clit. Everything in her froze. Her body clenched as she focused on the brush of his finger. It felt too good. If felt so right. Closing her eyes, she let the feelings roll over her. His warm mouth lowered to her breast and tugged a nipple between his teeth. Wet heat flooded her pussy and she bucked her hips. Grasping his head, she held him to her breast. His mouth wandered from one breast to the other. He nibbled, licked and sucked until she couldn’t draw a steady breath. “Little Fox like?” he asked with his lips still pressed against her skin. “Mmm hmm,” she muttered. Chuckling, he licked a path to her belly button. “Bear,” she called out as he shifted lower and his head dipped between her thighs. His hot, skillful tongue lapped her labia and her nerve endings screamed. Lord, it had been a long time.

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Parting her labia with his tongue, his teeth grazed her clit and a dart of sweet pleasure erupted. His lips nuzzled her folds, his tongue flicked at her clit in a teasing caress and she rocked her hips, wanting more. His touch promised pleasure beyond her wildest imagination and she wanted it. Firm hands clasped her hips and held her still as he lapped her folds. His tongue thrust into her core and she whimpered with pleasure. Repeatedly his tongue thrust, pushing her toward a towering peak. Grasping his head, she arched and shuddered as his tongue swept her tender flesh. “Oh my god,” she cried as her pussy spasmed in sweet release. Panting for breath, Bear pulled back. Meeting her gaze as his finger took deep possession of her still-quivering body. “Little Fox like Bear’s deep kisses?” His voice was a low purr. He was good and he knew it. “Oh yes.” Now she knew exactly where he had acquired his skills at kissing. “Little Fox ready for my cock?” he asked as he added another finger. His thumb found her clit and he circled the nub. “Please.” She nodded.

Groaning, Bear stretched out along her body. He kissed her deeply and her tongue tangled with his. Shifting to lie between her thighs, he allowed his cock to dance along her wet folds. She was hot and wet. He hungered to bury his shaft deeply in her body but he did not want to rush her. He wanted Little Fox to find much joy in their mating. The tip of his cock nudged her opening and he circled her nub with his thumb. A lusty moan escaped her lips and he pressed forward. Her pussy fisted his cock tightly and he groaned. Gritting his teeth, he held release at bay. It had been a long time since he had been with a woman and he wanted Little Fox beyond bearing but he would show his woman much pleasure first.

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“Bear,” she cried and grasped his upper arms as he filled her deeply. Her tight inner muscles twitched around his cock. “Relax, Little Fox. It good?” He watched her closely. He did not want her to feel pain or fear. “Oh…so good,” she said breathlessly. “It gets better,” Bear promised as he rotated his hips. “Oh lord.” Her eyes rolled back and a lusty moan escaped her parted lips. Lifting her leg, he shifted his hips and took her deeper. “You like my cock?” “Oh yes!” “Little Fox find only pleasure in my arms.” “So much pleasure,” she gasped and her eyes opened, meeting his. Her eyes shimmered with emotion as he rocked his hips. Groaning, he watched pleasure flash in her eyes as he possessed her body. Between thumb and finger, he squeezed her nub and her hips arched up to meet his thrust. Leaning forward he thrust his tongue into her mouth, mimicking the possession of his cock within her. The joining of mouths was addictive. Now that he had tried it, he would enjoy it often. Never would he tire of the taste of his woman’s mouth or the taste of her sweet cream. Her hands grasped his head and she sucked his tongue furiously as her tight pussy spasmed, milking his cock. Grabbing her hips, he thrust furiously. He felt her insides quake as her muscles tightened around his shaft. “Little Fox,” he called out as he drove her over the edge and rapidly followed.

Curled up to his side, her breathing slowly returned to normal and her mind raced. From the first meeting she’d always known Bear was different. Her feelings for him were powerful and she’d just found out how powerful. Their exquisite coming together

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had outshone every experience of her life. The climax had been mind-blowing and this time there were no recriminations. She did not have sex to placate a boyfriend or a husband. It wasn’t because she had to or was forced to endure a man’s touch. She wanted Bear. They had come together and there were no regrets. Tomorrow be damned. Tonight she lay in a man’s arms. Tomorrow would be soon enough to question the future. He was a man from another time. A little work and he could attract any woman he wanted. She was a divorcee with a psycho ex-husband. “Little Fox not pleased?” Bear asked. She moaned. “Oh I am. You pleased me more than I can say. My mind wanders sometimes.” “You only think of pleasure in my arms.” “Oh really? I might never have enough pleasure.” Her leg slid across his thigh as she stroked his firm chest. Bear snorted. “Then I give more.” “You couldn’t possibly!” She blinked as his cock lengthened. “Oh my!” His hand closed around his thickening erection and he gave it a couple of rapid tugs. “Ride me.” A thrill went through her. She’d never been allowed to set the pace, to be the aggressor. The thought excited her. Straddling his hips, Holly sank over his cock. She threw back her head and arched her back as the thick head burrowed deep. “Oh lord,” she gasped. Bear bucked his hips and stars flashed behind her closed lids. “You like?” “Yes. Oh yes. I like.” Shifting to her knees, Holly began to ride Bear in a slow, steady rhythm. A resonating groan rumbled in his chest. “Do you like?” Holly asked. Dark eyes opened and met hers. “I like very much.”

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Her hands skimmed his chest and plucked at his erect nipples. Without a doubt, he had the hottest body she’d ever had the pleasure to touch. Bear moaned and closed his eyes as her fingers traveled over rippled abs. “Does that feel good?” “Hmm, Little Fox, ride your warrior.” His hands gripped her hips setting a faster, harder pace. “That’s good,” she cried. “Oh god…so good.” She shuddered as ecstasy rolled over her. Bear’s shout of completion joined hers and she melted into his arms. “My woman have enough pleasure?” Bear panted. “For now.” She pressed open-mouthed kisses along his throat, tasting his salty essence. “Sleep for now. You are safe in my arms.”

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Chapter Five “Look at you, you beautiful boy.” Holly petted his long sleek neck. “Soon you’ll have more company in here but you’ll still be my favorite because you brought Bear to me.” “And now he’s brought you to me.” Holly’s heart lurched with fear and she pivoted to face Sam. “What are you doing here?” “Waiting for you. You owe me, bitch, and one way or the other, you’re gonna pay up.” Sam grabbed her arm and twisted it behind her back. “We’re gonna take a walk. I got the four-wheeler over there inside the tree line.” Holly twisted, trying to break free. “Cause a commotion and I’ll shoot the first person who comes out of that house.” Sam waved a handgun in her face. “We’ll walk straight out the side of the barn. They won’t be able to see us from the house.” She knew Sam was no match for Bear, Grey or Tara but she couldn’t take a chance on him shooting one of them. “Let me go. I’ll cooperate.” She took a step toward the side door. “Hold on a minute.” Sam pulled an envelope out of his pocket and put it on a stool in front of Wind’s stall. “Take your panties off.” “What?” “I want them to know I’m serious. You got panties on under that skirt or did that Indian take ’em off you?” “I have them.” “Give ’em here. I want that Indian to know I’m serious about enjoying your cunt while I wait for my share of the profits on this ranch.”

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“There are no profits. It was bankrupt.” “You profited and so should I. Now give me those panties or I’ll take ’em off you.” Holly reached under her skirt and slid her panties down her legs. Sam grabbed them out of her hand and sniffed the pink lace. His eyes were blood-shot and fierce. “Sam, don’t do anything you’ll regret.” “My only regret is I won’t get to see that Indian’s face when he finds out I have his woman. I saw you the other night riding him like a stallion in this very barn. My wife rides her Indian lover like a prized stud in my barn.” His eyes narrowed. “He took everything that was mine and it’s time he paid.” “Sam, I wasn’t yours long before Bear—” “Shut up and get moving.” He shoved her toward the door.

“Grey, I find this in barn but Little Fox not there.” Bear held out the paper and lacy panties. Ignoring the scrap of lace, Grey reached for the paper. “Tara, read this to us. I do not understand all the English words yet.” “Oh my god,” Tara mumbled as her eyes scanned the paper. “What is it?” Bear asked. “It’s Holly. Sam, her ex-husband, has her. He wants money for his share of the ranch if we want her back.” “I will kill him!” Bear exclaimed. “Hold on a minute, Bear.” “There is no time. He will hurt Little Fox. She fears him.” Tara’s trembling hand covered her mouth. “Oh no.” “What else does white man say?”

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“It’s the ramblings of a sick man. He blames you.” Tara looked at Bear. “He blames you for taking what was his. He’s threatening to do horrible things to Holly if we don’t pay.” Rage engulfed Bear. He would not allow this white man to take Little Fox from him. White men had taken everything from him but he would not lose Little Fox. “He will be sorry if he harms her.” “Can you find them, Tara?” Grey asked. “Can you do a locator spell?” “I can…” Tara moaned and rubbed her stomach. Grey wrapped his arms around Tara. “Are you okay?” “Indigestion. I’m fine. Get my trunk and I’ll do a locator. We have to find Holly now.” Tara sat in a kitchen chair. “I’ll do the spell here.” Bear left the room behind Grey. “I will be ready.” Stripping his shirt off as he walked, Bear entered his room and found his clout. The white man would pay with his life if he hurt Little Fox. Her panties were still clutched in his hand and he tucked them into his breechclout and tied on his knife. Returning to the kitchen, Bear saw Grey had already returned and he watched as Tara instructed him. “Place the candles from right to left in the star pattern as I showed you before,” Tara said. “Bear, I need Holly’s brush. Get it from her room.” Bear hurried to Little Fox’s room. He had never entered the room before but he did not waste time looking around. On her dresser he saw a brush, grabbed it and rushed back to Tara. “Are you sure you are up to this?” Grey asked. “I’m fine,” she replied. “I can do it.” Tara’s face was paler than usual and drawn tight with concern. Bear did not want harm to come to Grey’s woman but he needed to locate Little Fox. “Here is her brush.”

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“Thank you. I need a piece of her hair to find her quickly. I’m going to go to her. She might need me.” Grey snorted. “Is that dangerous?” “No. After I locate her I’ll transport my essence to her. In that way I will see what she sees.” “Is it safe in your condition? You’re due in a couple of weeks.” Bear heard the fear in Grey’s voice. He knew he worried for his woman. “I’ll be fine. Hand me my medallion. I’ll need Grandmother’s guidance.” After placing the medallion around her neck Tara said a cleansing chant. “Grandmother, lend me your strength.” The air stirred and Tara’s hair fluttered. “Great god and goddess hear my plea,” Tara began the chant. Bear couldn’t focus on the words. He saw sweat bloom across Tara’s brow. Her lips moved and mumbled words emerged. It seemed much time had passed but it might have been only minutes when Tara groaned. Her eyes closed and her head rolled back. “It’s a cabin. Holly is tied to a chair. She seems okay. There isn’t much furniture. I see him. It’s Sam and he’s standing with his back to Holly looking out the window. I see pine trees in the distance. I can’t tell where she is. I can’t…” Tara gasped. “You’re doing fine. Take it easy.” Grey patted her hand. “Little Fox is well? Is she afraid?” “Let me in, Holly. Let me in.” Tara smiled. “She’s not scared. She’s pissed.” “Where is Little Fox,” Bear asked anxiously. “She’s in an old foreman’s shack about two miles west of here.” That was all Bear needed to hear. He spun on his heel. “Wait, Bear. Holly says not to do anything rash and Sam has a rifle.” “Tell her I will be with her soon.” Tara opened her eyes. “I lost the connection.” 66

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“I will be ready in a minute,” Grey said to Bear. “Grey!” Tara called out. “You can’t go with him. I need you. I’m in labor.” “What?” Grey ran to his woman. Bear could not wait any longer. “You stay with Tara. I go get Little Fox.” Grey’s eyes darted between Bear and Tara. “Be careful.”

***** Sam flopped in a chair across the room from her and twisted the cap off a bottle of whiskey. “I bet lover boy found my note by now. He’s probably going crazy thinking about you being with me. He’s probably wondering if I’m in you right now.” He chuckled. “He really seemed to like that skinny body.” “Shut up. You’re disgusting.” “You didn’t used to think so. You used to moan while I fucked you.” “We’ve been over for a long time.” “Yeah. Now you got that Indian stud fucking you. I saw you riding him.” His lip curled up in a snarl. “Yep. I need to tell that boy that a woman needs to be put in her place. He let you do as you pleased instead of taking you like a man.” Holly struggled with the rope around her wrists. If she could get free, she’d strangle him. “He’s more man than you’ll ever be.” “You won’t be saying that soon. You’ll be moaning in pleasure as I fuck your ass. You always liked that.” “Shut up, you bastard.” Sam’s eerie laugh echoed in the small cabin. “Yeah, after I finish this bottle I’m gonna have a piece of you. Maybe Chief won’t want you no more when I’m done.” “Go to hell!” “Been there, done that.” Sam rose and took a step toward her. 67

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Holly stiffened but she met his gaze head on. She wouldn’t cower before him or any other man, not ever again. Sam staggered over to her and his hand cuffed her chin. “Such a grim face. It won’t be grim for long.” Grasping the front of her blouse, he ripped. “Small breasts—hardly enough to suck.” She wouldn’t allow him to demean her any longer. His words held no power over her. “You don’t have much to suck either, do you?” She tasted blood as he slapped her hard across the face. Sam unbuckled his belt. “I’m gonna have to whip your cheating ass. It sickened me watchin’ you with that Indian. You’re nothing but a whore. Soon he’ll be done with your skinny ass.” He pulled his belt loose and smacked it on his hand. Holly flinched but didn’t lower her gaze as his arm reared back. She breathed low and steady, expecting pain. A crash resonated in Holly’s head and it took her a minute to realize it was Bear breaking through the door. Before Sam could reach his rifle, Bear tackled him to the ground. “White man, you will die.” “No!” Holly screamed as Bear punched Sam and blood squirted from his broken nose. Sam yelled as he struggled uselessly under the bigger man. “Bear, you can’t kill him. If you do we won’t have a future.” Dark eyes turned to meet hers. “I have a restraining order against him. They’ll put him away for a long time. Let the justice system have him.” “White man laws!” Bear huffed and reached for his knife. “He’ll go to prison.” Bear looked uncertain but he sheathed his knife as the sirens came screaming toward the shack. Punching Sam once more in the jaw he left the unconscious man on

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the floor and turned to face her. Kicking the rifle across the room, Bear knelt at her side and used his knife to cut the ropes binding her to the chair. “Little Fox, you are well?” He gently touched her swollen lip. “I’m fine. He didn’t hurt me, not really.” His eyes ran over her. “Did he touch you?” “Not the way you mean. I don’t think he could,” Holly whispered. “Remember Tara’s spell?” Shaking out her arms, Bear massaged her wrists. “I remember. It is a good thing or he would not live to touch another.” She touched his lips. “Thank you but don’t say things like that in front of the sheriff. We haven’t worked on your English.” Bear’s gaze flicked to the door. “Sheriff arrest Indian for attacking white man?” “No. It’ll be fine but let me handle it. Don’t call them white men. It’s not polite and don’t mention your past.” “Little Fox, I don’t speak good English but I not stupid.” Pressing her lips to his in a quick kiss, she said, “I know.” Holly tied her blouse together and rushed to open the door. Two squad cars sat in front of the shack. The driver-side doors were open and the officers knelt behind them. “Davy, is that you?” Holly called, waving her arms. Deputy David Harrison didn’t appreciate the childhood nickname, as he’d previously told Holly, but in her excitement she’d forgotten. “Holly is everything okay?” the deputy asked. “We had a call from your new partners that you were being held hostage up here.” “I was. It was Sam but Bear rescued me.” As she spoke, Bear stepped out of the cabin behind her. David stood, as did the other officer, whom Holly didn’t recognize. “Did Sam get away or…?” David let the question trail off as he eyed Bear.

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“He’s inside. Bear knocked him out.” She saw David’s eyes run uneasily over Bear as his hand rested near his gun. She knew Bear looked intimidating, especially dressed only in a breechclout, his long hair braided. “Bear is one of my partners in the ranch.” David nodded. “I better see to Sam.” Passing them, he entered the shack and knelt beside Sam. “He’s unconscious,” David told the other officer. “Let’s get him cuffed.” Sam groaned as they cuffed his hands behind him. “I assume you are pressing charges.” The officer stated. “I am. I filed a DVRO on Sam a few days ago.” She was glad Tara had pushed her into filing the restraining order. “That was a smart thing to do. Looks like we’ll be adding kidnapping and assault charges. I only wish we could have done more ahead of time. Do you need to go to the hospital? Did he—” Holly knew David wondered if she needed an exam for sexual assault and she cut off his words. “He didn’t touch me other than to rough me up a bit. He threatened but Bear got here in time.” “Is that his rifle and bottle of whiskey?” David asked. “Yeah. We didn’t touch either one.” “Good. There should be prints. Martin, go ahead and load Sam in the car and I’ll process the scene.” “I’m going to need a statement from both of you.” David addressed her and Bear. “That’s fine but can it wait until tomorrow, Davey?” The deputy frowned at her use of the nickname. “In the morning will be fine. Sam’s not going anywhere.” “How’d he get you out here? I didn’t see a vehicle.” “He was waiting for me in the barn. We rode up here on a four-wheeler. It’s over there.” Holly pointed. “In the woods. He left a letter behind in the barn.” “I found the letter,” Bear spoke slow, perfect English. 70

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“Where is it now?” Bear shrugged. “I gave to Tara—” Bear turned to face her. “Tara is having the baby.” “Oh my god. We need to get back to the house.” She turned to David. “Are we free to go?” “Yes.” “Wind is waiting in woods,” Bear supplied. “You two go ahead. I’ll stop at the house on my way out.”

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Chapter Six Finally the house was quiet. David had left and Grey was spending the night at the hospital with Tara and their baby girl. There was so much commotion that they decided it best if they didn’t visit the hospital tonight. Mother and child were doing well and would be home tomorrow. The silence grew as Bear stood and noiselessly crossed the room. Holly’s eyes narrowed as she appraised his scantily clad body. To say she’d gotten used to the breechclout wouldn’t be accurate. She didn’t know if she’d ever get used to gazing at such perfection. Stopping in front of her, he spoke, “You said we could not be together if I killed him.” “I did.” Holly nodded as she leaned against the kitchen counter. Bear squatted at her feet. “I not kill him.” “I know.” Dark eyes stared into hers. “You stay with me and be my woman?” “That depends.” “You not trust me?” Holly grinned. “I trust you but I won’t live with you here on this ranch. This ranch will be used to educate the young on the way the world should be, could be. I won’t live with you here unless…unless I am your wife.” Her words faltered as he pinned her to the counter with his body. Heat flared in his eyes. “White woman marry savage?” She lifted one brow. “Oh yeah!” Bears hands slid under her skirt and up her thighs. Encountering her bare ass, he squeezed. “White woman spread pale thighs for savage?”

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She nodded as he rocked her hips into his. “You have no fears?” She smiled. “Of you? Never. You are the least savage man I’ve ever met.” Bear huffed. “I felt savage when white man stole you.” She cradled his face between her palms and her thumb trailed the scar on his cheek. Bear had lived a life she would never understand but he was a good and honorable man. “But with me, you’re always gentle.” “In my arms you only know pleasure.” “Pleasure and love?” Holly cocked her head to the side, watching his response. His dark eyes flashed with inner fire. “Much love and much pleasure.” He dipped his head and took her mouth in a savage kiss. Her stomach fluttered and cream slickened her folds as he devoured her mouth. “You learned that well.” She gasped as he raised his head. “I learn this too.” Lifting her onto the counter he shoved her skirt up and parted her thighs. Hot breath bathed her inner thighs as his tongue lashed her wet slit. Sighing, she leaned back and allowed him total access to her body. She wanted it all, his skillful tongue and his thick cock. “So much pleasure,” she groaned. He stopped for a moment and raised his head. “So much love?” “Oh yes! So much love.” Her eyes probed his. “Tara said if you spend the night in my bed you would consider me your wife.” Bear nodded. “It is true. In morning you be my wife by Yahi custom.” “Only if you spend the whole night in my bed?” She waggled her eyebrows at him. Bear nodded and stood between her thighs. Holly wrapped her arms around him. “Take me to bed.” Scooping her up, Bear threw her over his shoulder. “Bear!” she squealed. “Silence woman.”

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Entering her room, Bear crossed to the bed and lowered her. Climbing in next to her the old box springs creaked. Bear shifted and the frame squeaked. Laughter rumbled in his chest. “Bed not quiet like furs.” “We are going to have to invest in some new beds.”

Slowly, he removed his woman’s clothes, revealing her pale satiny skin. Many women had shared his bed of hides but none had moved him so intensely. He ran his hands over her soft curves. She was thin, sleek and white, his skin dark in contrast. But no longer did he see her as a white woman. She was his woman. The Great Spirit brought him to her and with her, he would stay. “Little Fox want to stay with me?” “Yes.” “It is good thing for I will stay in your bed all night.” His mouth lowered to a pink, pebbled nipple. “All night?” Raising his head, his eyes traveled her form. His woman’s creamy flesh made him hungry. His cock was hard and ready beneath his breechclout. “All night I will stay in your bed, in your body. In morning you be my wife.” “In the morning I won’t be able to walk.” Bear chuckled. “Then we stay in bed longer.” Lowering his hand, he parted her folds. Slick cream coated his fingers. “You are wet and ready for me.” “Oh yeah.” His lip curled upward at her anxious response. “Remove my clout.” Warm hands skimmed his side as they hurried to open the tie. “Touch me. Taste me as I will taste you.” Little Fox whimpered but hurried to do his bidding. Her lips curled upward as her gaze lovingly adored his cock. It pleased him to see her small hand wrapped around his

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shaft. Enclosed in her firm grip, he shuddered. Her lips parted over his cock head and he almost erupted, anticipating the liquid heat of the embrace. Groaning low in his throat, he squirmed as her tongue darted out and licked his sensitive tip. Wrapping a hand in her hair, he guided her mouth as she welcomed his shaft between her lips. Heat erupted in his groin and he struggled not to thrust too deeply. Her hot, wet tongue danced along his length and his sac tightened in need. Never had he seen a more beautiful sight as his woman’s mouth stretched wide for his cock. Her tongue flattened against the underside of his shaft as she swallowed. Gritting his teeth, he closed his eyes and willed his release away. “Enough,” he panted pulling her lips from his shaft. Without preamble, he flipped her over and parted her thighs. Thick cream covered her pouty, swollen folds. He growled as he inhaled her heady scent. His tongue swiped her juices. “Please…please.” Her hips bucked. Grasping her hips, he buried his face in her wet folds. His teeth nibbled her nub before his tongue drove into her honeyed canal. While circling her nerve center with his thumb his tongue relentlessly stroked her depths. She writhed on his face. Her muscles quivered, pulsed against his thrusting tongue. “Bear,” she cried out as her release washed over her and he drank the sweetest of cream. “Delicious.” Her body still spasmed with release as he rose above her. Using his legs, he parted her thighs wider and surged into her hot, wet pussy. She gasped as he thrust deep. Her green eyes opened and stared into his. Love, acceptance and need poured from her gaze. “You are my woman.” “Yes,” she cried out.

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His cock thrust slowly in and out and his heart thundered as he watched her swollen pink folds part for him. Her wetness welcomed his possession. He shuddered as he felt her inner muscles ripple around him. “I love you, Bear,” she gasped. His heart expanded in his chest. His blood surged hot. “My woman, I have much love for you,” he called out. Pistoning his hips, he gave his woman pleasure as his release poured into her depths.

A hand enclosed her breast and her nipple pebbled under his touch. “I will give you much pleasure this night.” Holly whimpered as his lips lowered to suck her nipple into his mouth. He nibbled the peak and she bucked against him as a ripple of pleasure surged low in her stomach. She didn’t know how long he could keep doing this. Hell, she didn’t know how long she would last either but she would enjoy it as long as she could. He lifted his head and his black eyes gleamed. “You hot and wet for me?” “Yes.” “You want more?” His engorged cock nudged her hip and she wondered if he could go all night. His hand lowered to circle her clit. She gasped at the sensation. Lifting her legs toward her chest, he held her ankles with one hand as he moved to his knees. Slowly, he leaned forward, taking her breath with his possession. “Bear!” “It good to watch my cock take you.” His fingers returned to play with her clit and she wiggled, trying to alleviate the ache. “This feel good?” She nodded. “Y-yes.” Bear chuckled. His hand lowered and a wet finger rimmed her ass. He pressed lightly and she gasped. “This will feel good too.” His finger penetrated her anally in tandem to his thrusting cock.

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A jolt of heat shot through her body. This was not something she thought she’d enjoy. Before Bear, she had thought of anal penetration as a punishment. Hell, before Bear, she’d begun to think of sex as a punishment but with him she feared nothing. She wiggled her bottom and he pressed deeper. “You like?” Dark eyes scrutinized her. “With you I want everything,” she gasped. A slow, wicked grin spread across Bear’s face. “I give everything I have.” A second finger penetrated her as his cock thrust hard and deep. A surge of pleasured-pain arched her hips off the bed. “Bear! Now, Bear, now!” A cross between a growl and a groan burst from his lips as he pistoned his hips and followed her over the edge into paradise. Panting, Bear lowered her legs then rolled them until she was nestled to his side. “My woman, the Great Spirit told me you would be mine but he did not tell me I would be yours.” Holly’s heart fluttered at his words and tears gathered in her eyes. “Did the Great Spirit tell you how much I would love you?” Bear shook his head, his dark eyes gleaming as he awaited her words. “More than I thought possible.”

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About the Author L.A. Day exists only in the mind of an ordinary wife and mother. An avid reader since early childhood, she began writing romance in her teens. Now, 20+ years later she’s progressed to erotic romance. Supported by her husband of many years, she spends her evenings in front of the computer. She now has a chance to bring her stories to life for everyone to enjoy. Her favorite genre is erotic romance with a paranormal twist. She feels that if you’re going to create an alpha male character, why not make him bigger, stronger, more well endowed than any human man could ever be? It is fantasy, after all. Thanks to Ellora’s Cave, L.A. Day can live her fantasy, making money for thinking about sex 24/7.

The author welcomes comments from readers. You can find her website and email address on her author bio page at www.ellorascave.com.

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Also by L.A. Day Barbarian Mate Double Penetration Feral Domination Feral Lust Savage The Last Warrior They Both Belong To Me Zarius

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