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Copyright© 2022 N.J. Walters

ISBN: 978-0-3695-0517-0

Cover Artist: Jay Aheer

Editor: Jessica Ruth

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

WARNING: The unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this copyrighted work is illegal. No part of this book may be used or reproduced electronically or in print without written permission, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in reviews.

This is a work of fiction. All names, characters, and places are fictitious. Any resemblance to actual events, locales, organizations, or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental.

DEDICATION

Thank you to all my readers who have embraced the Salvation Pack and continue to ask for more. I have to admit, I didn’t see this story coming until I began to write it. I had something different in mind for these two characters, but they had other ideas. I hope you’ll be as thrilled with their story as I am.

The release of any book takes a lot of work. Thank you to my editor, Jessica Ruth, and the incredible team at Evernight Publishing for giving me the opportunity to bring this spin-off series to life.

WOLF IN PURSUIT

Salvation Pack: The Next Generation, 2

N.J. Walters

Copyright © 2022

Chapter One

Her daddy was going to kill her.

Not literally. There wasn’t a more protective parent alive than Cole Blanchard, which was why he was going to kill her for running off on her own.

Amy Blanchard wiped down the table, picked up her tray of empty glasses and bottles, and headed back to the kitchen, quite certain her daddy’s idea of safe didn’t include her working at a roadhouse bar in Tennessee.

The cook—who she still only knew as Tom after two weeks of working here—was busy manning the grill. They did a brisk business, even on a Tuesday night.

“I need two deluxe burgers and an order of nachos.” She deposited the dirty dishes into large plastic bins, separating glasses, plates, and cutlery. They were a small operation, so everyone pitched in on the cleaning. The waitresses sorted to the right bins, and Tom would load them in the dishwasher when he was between orders. On the weekend, when things were really hopping, they had a part-time cook who handled it as part of his duties.

Tom grunted and kept flipping burgers.

Taking a breath, she tucked a strand of her blonde hair behind her ear. Her ponytail was sadly drooping after over six hours of nonstop work. Good thing she was in such great shape. Waitressing wasn’t for sissies.

For the millionth time since she’d left a note for her folks and taken off, she wondered if she’d done the right thing. Pressing her hand against the ache in her stomach, she pulled out her phone, fingers hovering over the keypad.

Swearing, she jammed it into the pocket of her jeans and headed back to work. The music system was pumping out yet another country song. Customers laughed and danced, swore and drank.

It was fascinating to watch, if overly loud for her sensitive ears. And completely different from how she’d been raised. She’d lived a sheltered life, had never gone to a public school or had friends outside their home in Salvation, North Carolina.

Werewolves didn’t mingle well with humans. Not that it didn’t happen. But, as she was quickly learning, it came with complications and compromises.

Inside, her wolf whined, not happy at being unable to run free. She’d only shifted once since she’d left, afraid someone would see her. Even then, she was careful to make sure the door was locked—something she’d never thought about before leaving home—and the drapes pulled.

There were times she feared she’d suffocate from lack of oxygen, boxed up tight.

“Suck it up,” she muttered. “This was what you wanted.” Only it wasn’t anything like she’d thought it would be.

God, she’d been so naive. It made her cringe to think about.

“Amy.” A regular customer waved his hand to get her attention. If she weren’t careful, she’d lose her job, which would force her to dip into her already dwindling savings.

Plastering a smile on her face, she hurried over. “What can I get you?”

The night was a blur of orders and faces. Amy liked people, had always been outgoing, but by the end of the night, she was more than happy to see the last one stagger out the door.

“That it?” Gracie, the bartender on duty tonight, started the process of closing the cash register for the night.

“That’s it.” Amy went around the now empty room, clearing the final few tables and collecting the tips left behind. Tom had shut down the kitchen over an hour ago, and everything was clean and in

readiness for tomorrow. After dumping her final load of dishes for the night, she pulled off her

“Milton’s Roadhouse Bar” apron and tossed it into the laundry bin in the employee’s bathroom before grabbing her sweater.

Not that she needed it. It was early May, but the temperatures dipped at night. The cold didn’t bother her, since she could regulate her body heat, but it would draw attention to her. Something to be avoided at all costs.

“Night, Tom.” She waved at the older man, who grunted and nodded in her direction. He lived in a trailer out behind the bar and was always the last to leave.

“Want me to wait for you?” she asked Gracie. Somewhere in her forties, Gracie dyed her hair jet black and favored vintage T-shirts from rock bands. She was steady and had a no-nonsense demeanor that kept even the rowdiest customer in line with little more than a stern look.

“I’m the one who should be asking you that.” She folded the register printout and stuffed it into the deposit bag. “I don’t like the idea of you walking home by yourself at night. It’s not safe.”

Smiling, Amy slid onto a stool and rested her elbows on the bar top. “Now you sound like my daddy.”

“Sounds like a smart man to me.” Gracie leaned across the counter and patted her arm.

“Maybe you should listen to him. This is no place for a girl like you.”

Curious, she tilted her head to one side. “What do you mean? A girl like me?”

“Don’t get your panties in a wad. Milton’s is a great place to work.” She pointed her thumb at herself. “For someone like me. You’re not tough or hard enough. And, honey, you don’t want to be.

You hold onto that innocence as long as you can.” She dragged her fingers through her short hair.

“Maybe it’s none of my business, but if you need help, if you’re running from something…”

Amy shook her head, both touched by the concern and disgruntled by the assessment. “I’m not running away. Not really.” She huffed out a sigh and gave a sad laugh. “I’m running toward something.

Only I have no idea what it is.”

Brisk once again, Gracie grabbed the paperwork and headed to the office. “Nothing wrong with that. Just make sure you don’t get hurt in the meantime. If you want a ride, I’ll be another five minutes.”

It would be smart to wait. Gracie was only concerned, but it had ignited a pang of guilt that threatened to choke her. The air in the room disappeared. Her skin rippled, fur appearing and retreating. God, this couldn’t be happening. Not here. Not now. Stumbling for the door, Amy yanked it open and bolted for the woods.

Her wolf clawed inside her, begging for release. Tears rolled down her cheeks as she ran in human form. Branches slapped her face, but she didn’t care, welcomed the pain.

What am I doing?

Blinded by tears, she didn’t see the rock in her path until it caught the toe of her sneaker and she went flying. Tucking her head toward her chest, she landed hard and rolled before coming to an abrupt stop at the base of a tree.

Flat on her back, she stared up through the thick canopy of branches and leaves. Clouds slipped over the moon, dimming it briefly before letting it shine once again. An owl hooted in the distance, and a raccoon scampered by. Inhaling deeply, she let the familiar sights, sounds, and scents comfort her.

I miss my family.

She had no one to blame for that but herself. In her defense, it had seemed like a good idea at the time, the only option.

Sitting up, she buried her face in her hands and tried not to think about it. That was a losing endeavor. Her momma had to be worried sick, even though she’d been texting every few days to let her parents know she was okay. She was twenty-four years old. Not like she was some teenage runaway.

“Damn it.” She pulled her phone out of her back pocket, grateful it hadn’t been damaged in her fall. Leaning against the thick trunk of an oak, she stared at the dark screen. She’d been keeping her phone turned off, using it sparingly. They might be wolves, but many members of the pack embraced technology. She feared they’d use it to trace her whereabouts, which was why she’d spent her first month traveling around, depleting her savings.

Not that they could make her go home. It was more that she’d cave and run home if they came for her. She’d spent her entire life surrounded by a loving, extended family. She had no idea who she was outside her identity as a female wolf in the Salvation Pack.

She rubbed her chest, but the ache didn’t leave. “I need to find out who I am. I need to discover myself.” And she couldn’t do that unless she stood on her own two feet. How was she to know what she was made of if she didn’t test her limits?

Her parents were both amazing people, each of them strong and sure in themselves because of the hardships they’d endured. They’d come through events that would have destroyed weaker wolves.

The worst thing she’d ever gone through before leaving home was being smothered by protective concern. Yeah, she’d had it so rough.

Tilting back her head, she gave a watery laugh. She’d had the best childhood ever, had never questioned her life until recently.

It wasn’t that she wanted anything bad to happen to her, but she wanted to live, wanted her life to matter. How could that happen if she never left home?

Deciding to take a risk, she turned on her phone and went into her contacts. A few seconds later, it was ringing.

“Amy!”

“I’m sorry, Momma.”

“Are you okay? Where are you? We’ll come get you.”

She closed her eyes and swallowed heavily, knowing she was about to hurt one of the people she loved most in the world. “I don’t want you to.”

Silence. “What happened? What did we do wrong?”

“Nothing.” Silent tears trailed down her face. “You did nothing wrong, Momma. I love you and Daddy. I need space. I need to figure out what I want to do with my life.”

“And you can’t do that here?” The gentle understanding almost broke Amy.

“I wish I could.” Her voice trailed off into a hoarse whisper. “I don’t want to hurt you, but I need to do this, for me. I have to know if I’m strong enough to stand on my own.”

“Baby, wolves aren’t meant to be alone.”

Talking was becoming impossible. “I’ll call again soon. Love you.” She turned off the phone before she caved and asked someone to come for her.

Curling up on the cold, hard ground, she wrapped her arms around her legs, buried her face against her knees, and cried until there were no tears left. Arms aching, legs cramping, she released the desperate grip she had on herself, pushed to her feet, and walked back to the rent-by-the-week motel room that she currently called home.

****

“You heard from her?”

Etienne Rollins leaned against the wall, looking relaxed, but every muscle in his body was tensed and ready for action.

Cherise Blanchard nodded at Jacque LaForge in answer to the alpha’s question. “Yes.” She swiped at her eyes. “It was brief. She said she was safe but didn’t want to come home.”

The pack had been summoned for an early breakfast meeting and was gathered in the alpha’s home. Jacque, Cole, and the women were all seated. The rest of the men leaned against the walls or hovered behind their mate’s chairs.

“Why did she leave?” Jacque asked the question they all wanted the answer to.

Cherise buried her face against her mate’s neck. “She said she needs space to find herself.”

The words were muffled, but everyone heard them loud and clear. Cole Blanchard looked angry enough to destroy the world single-handedly.

Etienne’s wolf howled inside him, no happier about the situation than he was. She’d run away to find herself, but he was the reason behind that sudden decision. Every muscle in his body tensed.

He forced himself to relax and pay attention.

There were rumblings from the males in the pack and sorrow in the eyes of the women. No one was happy, but Amy was an adult. There wasn’t much any of them could do if she didn’t want to be here.

This is my fault.

Everything had changed in the space of a heartbeat about six weeks ago, and there was no going back. Not that he would. He had no regrets, but Amy obviously did.

A great weight pressed down on his shoulders. Maybe he could have handled things differently, but he was who he was. They’d been friends their entire lives. She should have understood she didn’t need to run.

The ache in his chest grew until he could barely breathe. His wolf wanted out. He clamped down hard, maintaining iron control over himself and his wolf.

“Do we know where she is?” Jacque asked Armand. Cousin to the alpha, Armand LaForge had a way with computers and ferreting out information.

“She’s been smart, moving around a lot. And she kept the call short.”

“Does that mean you’ve found her or not?” Jacque was as impatient as he was. Etienne leaned forward.

“I traced the call to a cell tower in Tennessee. It narrows down the search, but it’s still a big area. That’s assuming she wasn’t just passing through.” Armand looked to Cole and Cherise. “I wish I could give you more.”

Cherise nodded, but Cole shook his head. “I’m going after her. She belongs at home.”

“If you do that, she’ll run again. Next time, she might not call,” Etienne said. Every eye turned to him. He met their gazes unflinchingly.

Cole pushed back his chair, set his mate down in it, and walked around the table. At six three, Etienne still had to look up at the man. “What do you know?”

Etienne’s wolf growled inside him, not willing to back down from the older and larger male.

His father stirred, a wave of menace rolling off him. The last thing he wanted was to cause a rift between the two men who’d been best friends for decades. No, this was between him and Amy’s daddy.

“If I’d had any inkling she was thinking about leaving, I would have stopped her or told someone.” That wasn’t a lie. He hated the idea of Amy being out there on her own.

Cole’s massive shoulders slumped. The lines on his brow deepened. His expression was

haggard. He likely hadn’t slept in weeks. He rubbed his hand over his face and then turned to Gator.

“I would not have hurt your son.”

Etienne’s father gave a curt nod.

“Not too much,” he added. The other men chuckled, defusing some of the tension, but the facts hadn’t changed.

“Amy left to spread her wings. While I don’t agree with how she did it, I understand why she did.” But there was no way Etienne would share. That was between him and Amy.

Gator raised an eyebrow. “Anything you want to tell me, mon fils.” His father had left Louisiana decades ago, but the Cajun came out whenever he was stressed. There was no man tougher than his father, no man he admired more.

“Non, I’m happy here. Can’t imagine living anywhere else.” But this wasn’t about him. “It is harder on her. Whether we meant to or not, we’ve all hovered over Amy her entire life, protecting her.” Slender and blonde, she was the epitome of a woodland fairy. Her sparkling green eyes held the secrets of the world. Her smile lit up every room she entered. Her laugh lifted the darkness. But those smiles had become less frequent this past year.

He held up his hand before the men could protest. “I didn’t say it was wrong, but it is the truth.

We’re male wolves. We’re protective and domineering by nature. While we recognize and respect the strength of the women—”

“If you know what’s good for you, you do.”

Etienne grinned at his mother. “You taught me well.” Sylvie Rollins had lived through events that would have broken most people—male or female. The jagged white scar on her right cheek was a testament to the brutality of her past but did nothing to mar her beauty. She’d been forged by the fires of adversity. There was no other woman he admired more.

Or there hadn’t been.

There had to be a way to make them understand. “Rightly or wrongly, I have more freedom than she does. So does Nicholas and Aaron.” Those were the alpha’s sons and his best friends. If they wanted to blow off steam at the local bar, they did. No questions asked. They wanted to take a few days and go hunting and camping. No problem. If Amy wanted to get away, someone had to go with her. For such an independent soul, it had to be frustrating as hell.

“If you try to force her to come home, she’ll dig in her heels. She’s stubborn when she sets her mind on something.”

“She’s like her daddy in that way.” Cherise swiped the tears from her face. “You’re her friend. What do you suggest?”

Heart pounding, Etienne laid out his plan. “I’ll go. I’ll find her.” Failure was not an option.

“I’ll talk to her. Find out what it will take for her to come home.” To him. “But I won’t force her.”

That would only succeed in driving a wedge between them.

Cherise looked to her mate, and with no words spoken, they came to an understanding. “When will you leave?” Cole asked.

“As soon as I’m packed.” Hurry. Hurry. The chant pulsed through his veins. “Send the coordinates to my phone,” he told Armand.

Armand looked to Jacque, waiting until the alpha gave him a nod. Etienne’s phone vibrated in his back pocket.

“As soon as you find her, text us your location.” An order from the alpha.

He nodded and headed for the door. “Etienne.” Cherise’s call stopped him. “Will you wait while I pack a bag? Amy didn’t take much when she left.”

He walked back around the table and hunkered down beside her. “I’ll wait. I promise I’ll do my best to convince her to come home.” It would take some fast talking, and unlike his father, he didn’t have a silver tongue. “I’ll protect her. I won’t leave her out there on her own.” If she refused to come home, she’d gain a shadow.

Cherise hugged him. “Thank you.”

He shook his head. “You never have to thank me. Not for this. Not for anything.” Pack took care of pack. It was what they did.

Giving Cole a solemn nod, he headed for the door, his father a few steps behind him. He waited to speak until they were far enough away from the house their voices wouldn’t carry.

“What aren’t you telling?” Gator asked.

“I was totally honest. I knew nothing of Amy’s plans.” It stung that his father might think that about him.

Gator shook his head. “That is not in doubt, but you spend more time with her, are closer in age. You see things.”

He took the back steps to their home in one leap and headed to his bedroom. “Amy hasn’t been happy for some time.” He pulled out a duffel bag and began to fill it.

“Her smile has been missing.” His father sat on the side of the bed and tapped his fingers on his thigh. “I thought it was some woman thing.”

He paused for a second and then stuffed a handful of T-shirts into the bag. “Some woman thing?”

“Oui. I assumed her mother would see and speak to her. I should have said something.”

“This is not on you.” Etienne stood in front of his father, putting his hands on the man’s shoulders. “This is on me.” He hadn’t meant to say anything, but he needed to unburden his soul. “She left because of me.”

Gator shook his head, his blue eyes flashing. “You did nothing to hurt her. You cannot convince me otherwise.”

That bedrock of support was unshakable. Had always been there and always would be. “Let’s say I confused her.”

“Ah.” His father nodded knowingly. “I’ve seen how you look at her. It has changed, non?”

“Are you going to tell her parents?” He should have considered that before opening his mouth.

No one else knew what had happened between him and Amy.

He gave a shrug. “You are my son. Since you wouldn’t force her to do anything she did not wish, there is nothing to tell unless you and Amy wish to share.”

Etienne went into the bathroom long enough to collect what he needed. When his bag was full, he hefted it over his shoulder. “I’ll keep in touch.”

“You do that.” He rose from the bed and pulled Etienne into his arms. “Your mother will worry.” They both understood his father would, too. “Do not blame yourself. If she was set on leaving, she would have found another reason to go.”

He prayed his father was right. It was eating at him to think he’d been the only reason. But the fact remained—he’d been the catalyst, the spark that had set things in motion. He tightened his arms and then dropped them. “I need to get going.”

“You have to wait until Cherise arrives with Amy’s belongings. I’ll make sandwiches for the road since you’ll miss breakfast.” His father was tough, a badass by anyone’s standards, and the man lived to feed those he loved.

“Thanks.”

Gator paused by the door. “I hope you know what you’re doing.”

“I hope I do, too.”

Chapter Two

Amy rolled over in bed and punched her pillow, determined to sleep. Restless, she slammed her eyes shut and took a deep breath in before releasing it. Another long shift in the bar. Another lonely night alone.

My choice, she reminded herself.

A new restlessness had her groaning and turning onto her back, staring up at the stained ceiling of her room. Not even a separate bedroom to escape to. Bed, table and a single chair, ancient television—everything was in one room.

The walls aren’t moving in. That’s an illusion.

She closed her eyes again, but her mind continued to race. Exhaustion and the coming dawn finally dragged her kicking and screaming into sleep…

Amy’s breath hitched. Tilting her head back, she stared into the face of a man she’d known her entire life, seeing him as if for the first time. His features were sharp, as if nature had carved away anything unnecessary, leaving pronounced cheekbones and a stubborn chin. His eyes darkened, reflecting something she’d never seen in them before.

Desire.

When she licked her lips, his pupils dilated and his nostrils flared. A new sense of power flooded her. His heart slammed against the palm of her hand where it rested on his chest.

“You shouldn’t do that.” The rough warning sent a shiver down her spine. Not fear, but something far different.

“Why not?” She walked her fingers up to his shoulder and squeezed. The man was in superb shape, not only due to his werewolf DNA but also because of the physical work he did daily. No gym body for him. All lean, rock-hard muscles. With his piercing blue eyes and shoulder-length black hair, he was both dangerous and captivating.

When had he stopped being her childhood friend and become someone that made her body tingle in her most private places?

He grabbed her hand but didn’t push her away. Instead, he brought it to his lips and kissed the tips of each of her fingers. Goosebumps raced up her arm. Beneath her T-shirt, her nipples pebbled.

“Don’t play with me, chère. Not about this.” He was always so calm, so self-contained. He was only two years older than her but seemed more mature. It wasn’t always easy to tell what he was thinking.

“Who says I’m playing?” Now that she’d thought about kissing him, it was all she could think about.

Growing up in a small pack, they’d always run and played together. That hadn’t changed as they’d grown older. They’d shifted and run as wolves. Seeing a naked male body wasn’t new. Not that anyone flaunted themselves, but it was impossible not to see things.

Yet when she’d watched him peel off his shirt a week ago, exposing a hard, tanned chest and muscled abs, something inside her had come alive. Her wolf had sat up and taken notice.

Since then, she’d watched him constantly, which had led to their current discussion. There was no one around but them. No one to interrupt.

Never shy about going after what she wanted, she went up on her toes, fisted her hands in the silky strands of his hair, and tugged his face lower. His full lips were currently set in a thin line. Not about to let that stop her, she brushed her mouth over his, making a sound of pleasure. Other than his

eyelashes, which were sinfully long and dark, it was the only softness to be found.

His breath caught, but he didn’t back away. Emboldened, she kissed him again, this time, teasing the seam with her tongue. When he groaned, she pushed inside. He tasted of the rich, dark coffee he’d had with breakfast, along with a naturally masculine flavor that made her crave more. She stroked his tongue before mapping out his mouth.

It was everything she’d imagined it would be and more. Etienne Rollins was sin on two legs.

She was enjoying herself so much it took her a minute to realize he wasn’t returning the embrace. His hands were fisted by his sides, his entire body rigid.

Heat flushed up her cheeks. What have I done? Releasing him, she took a quick step back.

She’d practically jumped the guy.

“Amy.” He was breathing heavily. Otherwise, he looked the same as always—totally unruffled. She, on the other hand, was burning up.

She raised her hand. “No, please don’t say anything. I’m sorry.” Oh, God, had she ruined their friendship? “I shouldn’t have done that without permission.” She bit her bottom lip to keep from babbling, her gaze on the ground. Anywhere but his face.

“Did you hear me object?”

Her head snapped up. Hands on his hips, he studied her like she was an interesting science experiment. Her embarrassment dissolved beneath a blast of anger. “I can tell how into it you were.

Not,” she muttered. “That shouldn’t have happened and won’t again.” Best to lay down some new guidelines going forward. She’d bury her newfound interest in him if it was the last thing she did.

Spinning around, she started to stalk away, but he caught her hand and tugged her back around.

“What?”

Calmly, he placed her hand over the bulge in the front of his jeans. Her fingers automatically curled around his thick erection. When she realized what she was doing, she yanked her hand away.

“You’re aroused. So what? You’re a guy.” In her limited experience, men, especially male werewolves, had a very high sex drive. It wasn’t something she thought about often, especially not in regards to her parents. Nope, not going there. It didn’t matter that she was an adult. They were her parents.

“I don’t want any woman, Amy. I want you.” The low growl raised all the fine hairs on the back of her neck. Her wolf whined inside her, unsettled. “You’re testing yourself, discovering the sensual side of your nature.” He trailed his index finger down her cheek and over the curve of her jaw.

Such a little gesture, but it packed the punch of a bomb. Her nipples tightened, and a low throb pulsed between her thighs. She swallowed heavily. When had she lost control of the situation?

“I… I’m not sure what you mean.”

“Don’t lie, little wolf. You’ve snuck out several times these past months and gone to the bar outside town.” He leaned down and nibbled her neck. Her knees went weak.

How does he know?

“I’m not some human male, chère, content to dance to a song or two, maybe share some hot kisses.” He caught the lobe of her ear and nipped.

“Etienne.” A shudder went through his big body.

“Say my name again.” His breath was hot against her neck.

“Etienne.” It was a mere whisper on the breeze.

On a groan, he captured her mouth. He didn’t kiss her—he consumed her. Heat poured through her. Thick arms wrapped around her, holding her a willing captive.

She’d been kissed before, but this was something entirely different. This was a claiming. Her wolf whined even as Amy surrendered to the potent desire. Their tongues tangled, breath mingled.

His erection pressed against her stomach, but he made no move to do anything more.

He was always so in control. It made her crazy, made her want to smash through the wall of his composure. Sliding her hand down his abs, she paused at the band of his jeans. He caught her hand before she went any lower.

Breathing heavily, he rested his forehead against hers. “You do that, and I won’t be able to stop.”

The raw confession should have pleased her. It was what she’d wanted. The air around them was charged. One wrong word and the world would explode. She swallowed heavily. But he was right. He was no human male, but a primal male werewolf.

“Make no mistake. I want you. I have for some time, but you didn’t see me. Something changed. I don’t know what and I don’t care.” When he raised his head, she jerked back. His fangs had dropped. Something dark and deadly was reflected in his gaze.

Fear seeped into her consciousness. “Etienne.”

His big body shuddered. “Unless you’re ready to face the consequences of being with me, run.”

Clear warning given and received, Amy bolted. When he didn’t pursue her, she glanced over her shoulder. He was standing alone, hands fisted by his sides, head thrown back, the cords of his neck rippling. He was a man in pain.

Her wolf howled, wanting to return.

Amy ran…

Beep! Beep! Beep!

She bolted upright in bed, lungs heaving and heart pumping. After slapping her phone to silence the alarm, she buried her face in her hands and sucked in a deep breath. She’d had the dream again. Only it was no dream.

“Shit.” What else was there to say? Putting hundreds of miles between them hadn’t worked.

Etienne and the memory of what had happened between them had followed her all the way to New York, up to Maine, and now all the way to Tennessee. She’d considered heading to California but hadn’t wanted to be that far from her family.

I want to go home.

The confession was bittersweet. So much for testing her wings, for being brave. She missed her parents, her friends, and extended family. Her wolf whined, in as much pain as she was.

Bolting from bed, she headed to the bathroom. A cold shower was what she needed to clear away the cobwebs and cool her heated body. It was embarrassing how arousing the dreams were.

Even after all this time, she could still feel his mouth on hers.

Her lips tingled.

“Don’t think about it.” Cranking the taps, a barely adequate trickle flowed from the showerhead. She stepped beneath the meager spray, gritted her teeth, and soaped up quickly.

Lingering was out of the question.

There was no relief to be found from the desire pumping through her veins. Pleasuring herself worked short term but seemed to make things worse. It had been nothing but cold showers for the past month.

Hands planted against the chipped tiles, she bowed her head. It would be so easy to go home.

If she did, she’d end up mated. She wasn’t stupid, understood that was what Etienne had meant.

A chill shook her.

Turning off the tap, she dried herself. After hanging the towel to dry, she stared at herself in the mirror. Outwardly, nothing had changed. She was tall and lean, the blonde hair and green eyes familiar. Inwardly, she was a stranger.

“I don’t know what I want.” And that was the problem. Etienne was a force of nature. It would be so easy to give in to the potent desire between them. But was it real? Did he love her? Did she love him? Or was it simply proximity and limited choices?

Mating with a human was rare. Finding that special person was almost akin to discovering a unicorn. It did happen, but not often. And where was she going to get the chance to meet such a man?

Not at home. Another werewolf wasn’t likely either. Her pack kept to itself.

She grabbed her brush and dragged it through her hair, wincing when it caught on tangles.

Forcing herself to be more careful, she finished and braided it for work.

She’d been asking herself the same questions for weeks and was still no closer to an answer.

“I have to do this?” Talking to herself was a way to ease some of the loneliness. She was used to being surrounded by people. Heck, she still lived with her parents at twenty-four. Etienne lived with his. That’s how it was in a pack.

Back in her living space, she dressed in a T-shirt and jeans and grabbed her sweater. She never bothered with a purse, keeping the key to her place and her wallet in one back pocket and her phone in the other. If she had to run, she had everything she needed.

Another shiver ran down her spine. Going still, she listened intently. There was nothing beyond the regular sounds of the people living on either side of her and traffic from the nearby road.

“It’s time to go.” Maybe she’d been here too long. It was Saturday night, which meant good tips. She got paid on Monday. Once she got her money, she’d hit the road.

Feeling better now that she had a plan, she gave the place one last look. Her clothes were all in two bags—one clean, one dirty. She never unpacked. Her stomach growled, reminding her she hadn’t eaten since her supper break last evening. It was already noon. There was time to get a bite to eat and get to work before her shift began at two. She was covering part of a shift for another waitress, as well as her own.

It was going to be a long day.

****

Etienne pulled into the gravel lot and parked in front of an older motel. According to what he’d found online, some enterprising soul had set up some of the rooms as cheap efficiency apartments a person could rent by the week or month. The red sign was chipped, but enough remained to let people know what it was.

A small office crouched on the far left of the long, single-story L-shaped building. It had seen better days thirty years ago. There was no cafe or restaurant attached. The only food and beverages available came from several battered vending machines close to the office.

Is this where she’s staying?

Climbing out of his truck, he took a deep breath, tamping down the hope that welled inside him. He’d been at this for days and hadn’t picked up her trail yet. He’d lost count of how many cheap apartments, diners, and bars he’d trekked through.

Imagining Amy in any of those places was enough to make him feral.

Rolling his shoulders, he walked along the front of the building, starting at the office and working his way forward.

The fine hairs on his arms rose as he caught a scent. Freezing, he sniffed again. Picking up his pace, he loped toward the far end. The scent grew stronger, fresher the closer he got to the last unit.

I found her.

Inside him, his wolf howled.

Standing outside her current resting place—he would never call it a home—he placed his hands against the thin panel, struggling to suppress his anger. There was no protection here. Anyone could have broken in. Yes, she could protect herself. Not only was she stronger and faster than any human, her father and the rest of her “uncles” had trained her, had trained all of the younger generation, to fight. That wasn’t the point. She was still a woman alone. The best of clientele likely didn’t live here.

He closed his eyes and said a prayer of thanks, not realizing until this second how desperately close to the edge he’d been. “Keep it together,” he whispered under his breath. “Amy.” He knocked on the door and listened. His preternatural senses picked up no sound.

Was she still living there or had she left? Had he missed her?

Panic welling inside him, he gripped the handle, turned it, and pushed. The flimsy lock broke under the pressure. After a quick look to make sure no one was watching, he stepped inside and closed the door.

Her scent surrounded him. He threw back his head, the cords of his neck tensing as he gritted his teeth to keep from howling in victory. Her clothes were still here. She was still here. Or somewhere close.

He sat down hard on the end of the bed and fell back. This was where she’d slept. Lifting one corner of the blanket, he rubbed it over his face, breathing deeply. The darkness inside that had threatened to swallow him whole these past weeks settled.

Sitting up, he peered around the space. Small, circular table with a cheap chair in front of the window, a bed, a nightstand, a dresser with a coffeepot and hot plate, a mini refrigerator, and a tiny open closet made up the entire space. It was smaller than his bedroom at home. The dingy beige paint on the walls and stained carpet didn’t add anything. It stank of mildew, pine-scented cleanser, and past occupants. How did she stand it?

Where is she?

He wouldn’t relax until she was in his sight. Needing a starting place, he went to her bags, taking the one that wasn’t laundry back to the bed. It was an invasion of privacy, but he was past caring.

There was so little—a couple pairs of jeans, shirts, underwear and socks, and a journal. The leather-bound book was thin and not overly large. He brushed his fingers over the pink cover, a ghost of a smile on his face. She might be all grown up, be an outdoors girl, but she still loved pretty things.

She’d fascinated him his entire life. Even as children, he’d never quite been able to figure her out. He doubted he ever would.

Her most intimate thoughts were written on these pages. His fingers hovered on the cover.

Swearing, he jammed it back into the bag, along with her clothes. That was a line he wouldn’t cross.

She’d never forgive him.

The laundry bag was next. He checked all the pockets in her clothes. He was almost ready to give up when he hit the jackpot in the front pocket of a pair of jeans at the bottom of the bag—a folded piece of paper. It wasn’t a paystub. That would be too easy. She was likely being paid under the table, anyway. Smarter that way.

It was a receipt from the diner he’d passed half a mile back. Since he was hungry, he’d check

out the place. Maybe she worked there.

Hope buoying him, he hurried to the door. It closed, but the lock wouldn’t click into place. No matter, he expected to be on the road home later tonight or tomorrow.

Optimistic? Maybe. He preferred determination. She was stubborn, but she’d met her match.

He thought about putting her belongings in his truck, but that was too presumptuous, would only put her back up.

He’d have to be sneaky. His prey was in his sights, and she’d soon know it.

Chapter Three

An old Garth Brooks song about having friends in low places blasted through the speakers, hurting her sensitive ears. She liked the song, just not the volume. “Suck it up,” she muttered, hoping the pep talk would help. Only three more hours until closing. It was both scary and liberating to know she was leaving this behind in a couple of days.

Where will I go?

Best not to think about that now. She needed her wits about her to get through the next two days. She hated to leave the bar in a lurch, but it couldn’t be helped. There was an itch between her shoulder blades. Her wolf was restless. It was time to go.

“Two Buds, a Coors, a whiskey, and two white wines.” Three couples were out for an evening of dancing and fun. She preferred dealing with mixed groups. Less chance of being hit on or groped.

Gracie nodded and filled the order. “How you doing? You haven’t been yourself tonight.”

Amy winced, aware she’d been distracted, more withdrawn. “Yeah, sorry.”

“Listen, if I overstepped the other night, I apologize.” She set the beers on the tray and started pouring the drinks. Tonight’s T-shirt was the Rolling Stones. It struck Amy that she was going to miss Gracie.

“No, it’s nothing you said. I appreciate your concern.” How could she explain it when she wasn’t quite sure herself?

The wine and whiskey landed on the tray. “Just don’t disappear without telling me.” She squared her shoulders. “I’d worry.”

Warmth spread throughout Amy. On impulse, she reached across the bar and squeezed Gracie’s hand. “Promise.” Guilt sat heavy on her shoulders. She’d left home with only a short note of explanation. She didn’t need to add to the weight already pushing down on her.

“Better get back at it.” She tilted her head toward the tables. “The natives are restless tonight.”

On a laugh, Amy grabbed her tray and made her way around the tables until she hit her destination. “Here you go, folks. Enjoy.”

Gracie wasn’t wrong. There was something in the air tonight, a hum, an almost frantic energy.

Wouldn’t take much for a fight to erupt. Best to stay on her toes.

When the front door opened, she automatically glanced over. The two men were tall and broad, and both of them stopped to scan the room before entering. They moved with an unmistakable grace that made her stomach drop.

Please go to Mary’s side. There were two of them working tonight, and they split the bar in half, each of them solely responsible for their section. There were two empty tables in the place, one on each side. Fate laughed in her face when they turned toward her area.

Don’t borrow trouble. Something about the men made her wary. Her wolf was unnaturally quiet.

So what if they were wolves? Part of her journey was about finding herself, but there’d also been the faint hope she’d meet others of her kind. How could she compare what she’d felt with Etienne if she never met other male wolves?

Now that it was a reality, rather than a vague possibility, she was having second thoughts.

Realizing she was standing there like a bump on a log, she put her head down and took orders for two tables. Once those were delivered, she took a deep breath, plastered a smile on her face, and

headed to the far corner where the men had settled. “Welcome to Milton’s. What can I get you?”

The first male smiled. “I’ll have a Heineken.” He had short dark hair, blue eyes that bordered on gray, and a face that would make most women look more than once.

His friend stared until she shifted from one foot to another. “And you?”

“Why are you working here?” He had the same hair color and general build. The only difference was his eyes were totally gray, his features less refined. They were definitely related.

His question was blunt and to the point. She’d be the same. “None of your damn business.

Now, do you want anything to drink?”

His brow furrowed and his eyes narrowed. “I’ll have the same.”

“Fine.” She spun around and walked away when she wanted to run. That would be a mistake.

They were predators and would chase her. Act normal. Act normal. Shoulders back, she stopped at two more tables, smiling and chatting and taking orders.

At the bar, she kept her back to them, but could feel their gazes on her.

“Those guys bothering you?” Gracie tilted her head slightly toward them. “I’ll move them along if you need me to.”

As much as she’d like to take her up on the offer, it would be cowardly. And they wouldn’t leave until they were good and ready. Not without causing trouble. Best to face them down.

“I’m good. Promise,” she added when Gracie dropped her chin and eyed her intently. As she waited for her drinks, she rubbed her hand over her face and took several deep breaths to slow her speeding heart. This was a good thing. It was part of her journey. And since she’d already planned on moving on, it was no big deal. Right?

By the time her tray was full, she’d talked herself around to seeing this as a positive thing.

Kind of.

She kept their drinks until last, placing them both on the table.

“Here you go.” See, she could talk to them no problem. “Kitchen closes in an hour.” She pointed to the large sign on the wall that listed their limited menu and prices. “Let me know if you want to order.”

“Wait.” It was the one who’d demanded to know why she was working here. Amy’s wolf gave a warning growl, her hackles up. The muscles in his shoulders bunched, but he leaned back in his chair. “I’m sorry. That came out wrong. What I said earlier.”

A male werewolf apologizing. Not something that happened every day. If he could give a little, so could she. “Don’t worry about it.”

“I’m Luc Landry.” He pointed to the other man. “That’s my brother, Colton.”

“Amy.” She wasn’t about to give him her last name. She was friendly, not trusting or stupid.

His smile was crooked. “I’m still curious.” He leaned forward, resting his forearms on the table and wrapping his hands around his beer. “Why are you working here? Among them?” He didn’t say humans, didn’t have to.

Resting her empty tray against her side, she studied both men. They were handsome in a rugged, masculine way. They gave off an aura of toughness without having to posture or preen. She waited, hoping for a sign of attraction, a twitch, anything.

Nothing.

Giving a sigh, she shoved a loose strand of hair behind her ear. “Because I need a job.” And it was time to get back to it. She didn’t ignore them, not exactly, but she did avoid them for the next half hour. It was impossible not to be aware of them.

Finally, her conscience got the better of her—they were paying customers—and she made her

way to their table. “Can I get you anything else?”

“Another round of beer,” Luc told her. “Two burgers and an order of nachos.”

Great, they were sticking around. Would likely be here at closing. Would they follow her home, try to talk her into going somewhere with them? Suddenly, wanting to meet other male wolves didn’t seem like such a clever idea. Not when she was on her own.

Should she run, take off early? It would be easy to slip out the back, take to the woods, and be gone before they discovered she was missing. Tension was making her head ache. And considering her kind rarely got them, that was quite a feat. Outwardly, none of her fears showed. She smiled and chatted, keeping her customers happy.

She was still mulling her options when she delivered their food.

“Thanks.” Colton’s smile had likely melted many a woman’s heart. Hers remained steady.

“You’re welcome.” She set one of the burgers in front of each man and placed the nachos in the middle. “Enjoy.”

“When do you get off?” Luc asked. “We could take you home. It’s not safe for a female out here on her own.”

He’d made his move. It was time for her to do the same. “Funny, but I never felt threatened until tonight.” Let them chew on that. Colton appeared confused. Luc frowned.

“We would never hurt you.” His eyes flashed and his frown deepened. His outrage seemed real, but it was impossible to sniff out a lie in this crowd. Too many other scents muddying the air.

“I only have your word for that. And my momma taught me not to trust strangers.”

“If she was such a great parent, you wouldn’t be working in a place like this.”

Oh, no, he didn’t. She dropped her tray on the table and placed her hands on either side of it.

“You don’t ever disrespect my momma. Do you hear me?” Cherise Blanchard was kindness personified and the best mother a girl could ever have. Amy missed her like a limb.

Colton nodded immediately. Took his brother a bit longer, but he finally gave a curt one.

“I’ll see myself home.”

“We’ll see about that,” Luc muttered.

God save her from stubborn male wolves. Amy didn’t think they meant her harm, but she wasn’t about to risk it. “No, we won’t.” Before she could straighten, he reached out and wrapped his hand around her wrist.

Whatever he might have said was lost when the door opened and a gust of wind blew a familiar scent in her direction. Both brothers growled. Amy turned her head, her eyes devouring the big man who stepped inside.

The black T-shirt clung to his broad chest and wide shoulders, the short sleeves stretched by his biceps. The faded jeans hugged his powerful thighs. Shoulder-length hair was pulled back in a short tail at his nape. Laser blue eyes landed on her.

Her heart took off at a gallop. Sweat beaded her brow. Oh, God. Why here? Why now? A chill washed over her before a flash of heat blasted through her.

She licked her lips, her mouth dry.

Etienne had found her.

****

The bar was like dozens he’d been in before. The smells never changed—alcohol, food, sweat, and perfume. He’d always hated it. But this place had something the others hadn’t. A fragrant scent lingered, a mixture of the outdoors and a sweetness that made his mouth water. It stood out over the others, like a rose in the center of a swamp.

Feeling eyes on him, he turned unerringly to the dark corner on his left. And there she was, safe and unharmed. The frantic restlessness and fear that had dogged him for so long dissolved, and he took what felt like his first real breath in weeks.

Standing in the shadows, Amy stood out like a beacon of light. He drank in the sight of her, from the top of her sleek blonde hair to her sneaker-clad feet. His eyes narrowed and a growl rumbled up from his chest when his gaze landed on her wrist. She was leaning on a table, and some guy was touching her.

Before he could head that way, she stepped back. Fortunately for the guy, he released her.

Etienne decided the unknown man could live.

His gaze tracked her as she hurried to the bar. She could run all she wanted. He’d be right behind her. But he would not give her a reason to bolt.

The more primal part of him wanted to grab her, toss her over his shoulder, and drag her home. But like any wild creature, she’d fight captivity. The trick would be to lure her until she trusted him enough to want to leave with him. It would be even more brilliant if he could convince her to do the asking.

That was a tall order, but he didn’t mind hard work. Amy was well worth it.

As he walked across the crowded dance floor, people instinctively moved out of his way without him having to ask. Humans had no idea what he was, but they unconsciously understood it was better to get out of his way. It proved their instincts hadn’t all been blunted. He had no problem with that. Made things easier.

Her back was to him, but her shoulders hunched as he approached. The music was too loud, the air thick and nasty, and it was far too crowded. This was not how he’d envisioned their reunion, but he’d work with what he had.

“Amy.”

She shivered and wrapped her arms around herself. The older woman pouring drinks behind the bar stopped what she was doing and glared at him. “Get you anything?”

So, she’d managed to find a protector. He wasn’t surprised. As strong as she was, there was something about Amy that prompted people to want to look out for her. She was tall and lean, her curves subtle. He ached to touch her but didn’t dare.

“Mister?” The bartender rapped her knuckles on the bar top.

“Beer.”

“What kind?”

“The kind in a bottle.” He didn’t care what it was. “You going to say hello?” She took his question as a challenge, as he’d known she would. Amy wouldn’t back down from the devil himself.

No, she’d charm him until he’d be willing to lay waste to the world for a single smile from her.

It was a good thing she had no idea of the power she wielded so effortlessly.

Her chin went up and she slowly turned. He swallowed heavily. She’d lost weight, was leaner, her features more pronounced. Her green eyes flashed with something. Anger? Relief? Hard to say with any certainty. Then it was gone, replaced by a bleak acceptance.

What the hell did she think he was going to do? Toss her over his shoulder and take her home?

Not that he hadn’t considered doing just that, but that was before he’d seen her.

His mind calculated odds and outcomes. His mother had always complained he was too smart for his own good, always planning three steps ahead. He prayed it worked in his favor now. He didn’t see it as manipulating but as guiding people toward the best possible outcomes for everyone.

“Hello, Etienne.”

His good intentions were almost washed away by the soft sound of her voice. He closed his eyes, inhaled sharply, and tucked his hands in his pockets to keep from reaching for her.

A bottle slammed down in front of him. “Four dollars.”

He pulled out a five and tossed it down. “Thanks.” Amy was watching him like a doe watched a hungry wolf, wary and ready to bolt.

“How did you find me?”

“Amy, you want me to call the cops?” the bartender asked.

Even if she wanted to, she wouldn’t. A werewolf would never involve the human authorities in their problems. It was an unwritten rule, but one that none of them ever broke. If humans found out about them, they’d all be hunted to extinction. People were nothing if not predictable.

“No, Gracie. I’m fine. He’s from home.”

Lying wasn’t an option. He could evade the question or choose not to answer, but he went with the truth. “It was your call to your momma. It was traced to a local tower. I’ve been searching for you since. Your daddy wanted to come.”

She closed her eyes and made a small sound of pain. He had his arms around her before he’d realized his intentions. The need to comfort her was instinctive. He buried his face in her hair and inhaled her scent. Nothing and no one had ever felt as good or as right in his arms as she did. His wolf gave a rumble of relief.

Her hand pressed against his chest, not to pull him closer but to push him away. He took a step back. “Amy.”

With a shake of her head, she turned aside. “Not now.”

He got it, he did. She was at work, surrounded by strangers. This was neither the time nor the place. “I’ll wait.”

Her smile was unbearably sad. “I figured you would.” The laugh she gave verged on tears.

Someone yelled from a nearby table, and she left him standing there.

What if she didn’t want to come home? What if she didn’t want him? What if he was the reason she wouldn’t go home?

Defeat threatened to choke him. Keeping his emotions locked down tight, he sat on an empty stool and swiveled around to keep an eye on her. Like a dancer, she moved with poise and grace, sharing a word or a smile with everyone.

“You do any harm to that girl and I’ll find a way to hurt you.”

He turned back around but kept one eye on the mirror behind the bar, watching Amy as she worked. He’d been expecting this. Gracie had more than a few years on him but was younger than his parents. She stared him straight in the eyes and didn’t flinch. Not many men could do that. His respect for her ratcheted up a couple of notches.

“I’d never hurt Amy. And I’d hunt down anyone who did.” He stopped short of saying he’d hunt them down and kill them. No need to get graphic.

Like his father, Etienne was a protector by nature. Unlike his father, he’d never been able to find a balance to ease some of the intensity that was as much a part of him as his hair color. His father channeled his protective instincts into cooking and feeding everyone.

Amy deserved better than him, but he wasn’t about to give her up. Without her light to guide him, he feared the darkness inside would swallow him whole.

“Good.” Surprised by Gracie’s reaction, he gave her his full attention. “What? That girl does not belong here.”

“Neither do you.”

She seemed startled but shook her head. “I passed that line long ago, but her? She’s still got a chance at a good life, one that doesn’t include tending a bar and living alone.” Leaving him with his thoughts, she went back to work.

Life was odd. You started out with plans and ideas. Sometimes they worked, and sometimes they took you to places you never dreamed—good and bad. Look at him. Amy had been his friend his entire life. They’d grown up together, safe in the midst of a loving and protective pack. They’d spent as much time in each other’s homes as their own.

Then one day, he’d looked at her and seen something more. It was as if a switch had clicked inside him. His entire world had exploded. And when he’d put the pieces back together, nothing was the same.

He tracked her movements in the mirror, giving the illusion of not watching her, but she felt him, glancing in his direction every few minutes. Every muscle in his body was rigid, his control tenuous. He forced himself to look away, scanning the rest of the patrons. Something he should have done immediately.

Finally finding Amy had sent him into a tailspin, and he wasn’t fully recovered. That was no excuse. Her safety came first—always. Not that he expected much trouble from a bar full of humans, but it was better to be safe, to leave nothing to chance.

The two men in the corner caught his attention. Eyes narrowed, he studied them. They were tall and fit, clean-shaven. Somewhere between mid-twenties and early thirties. The one who’d had hold of Amy’s hand earlier was staring at her.

A low growl escaped before he smothered it. The guy two barstools down from him glanced in Etienne’s direction before grabbing his beer and moving further away. In fact, the stools on either side of him were empty.

Shit, he had to rein his wolf in. He was making people nervous.

He straightened, going on alert when she walked over to their table.

Chapter Four

“You want anything else?” Don’t look at the bar. Don’t look at the bar. Etienne was really here. It was almost impossible to keep her attention on work. She was torn, half scared he’d make her go home and half scared he wouldn’t. She was riding an emotional rollercoaster that was making her stomach sick from all the ups and downs and sharp turns.

Unable to help herself, she glanced toward him. Sure enough, those pale blue eyes were turned in her direction, but they weren’t on her. No, they were on the men sitting at the table.

“Are you okay?” Luc asked.

“I’m fine.” Not like she was going to share her problems with complete strangers. Her life was complicated enough without adding two unknown wolves to the mix.

“You sure?” He leaned back and studied Etienne. “If you’re worried about him, we can take you home after work.” He paused. “Or make sure he never bothers you again.”

Her heart stuttered to a stop before setting off at a gallop. “Stay away from him.” As confused as she was about where she and Etienne’s relationship stood, the last thing she wanted was for him to get hurt.

“We have a sister.” Colton leaned forward and tapped out a rhythm on the table with his fingers. “Every woman deserves to feel safe.”

If these two were for real, she’d really stumbled across two handsome and nice wolves.

Maybe it was all an act. Her senses were no help in this environment, but she didn’t think they were lying. Not that it mattered.

“I’m fine, honestly.” Best to get things back to business. “Are you done for the evening?”

Colton glanced at Luc, who shook his head. “Another round of beers.”

Her hopes for an easy resolution disappeared. Get two, or in this case three, male wolves together and the testosterone was enough to choke a girl. “Right away,” she muttered.

There was no way to avoid the bar any longer. She had three tables waiting on drinks. Head forward, she marched up to the far end, keeping a few stools between them as she gave Gracie her orders.

“You seem tense.” Etienne tilted his head to one side and frowned.

She bit her lip to keep from falling into hysterical laughter. “You think.” She thought about banging her head against the bar, but that would hurt. Besides, it wouldn’t do anything about her current predicament.

“What can I do to help?” The concern surprised her. Not that he cared about her—she already knew that—but that he’d actually ask her what she wanted, rather than jumping right in and doing whatever he thought was best. The men in her pack were loving and caring, but they could also be a tad overbearing and even dictatorial at times.

She rubbed her hand over her face, trying to ignore the knots in her stomach. Why was life so complicated? Everything had been so easy when she was a little girl. She’d believed her daddy could solve any problem, slay any dragon, and he always had, handling all her tiny concerns with great seriousness, never making her feel like a bother. But this was one only she could tackle.

Sometimes being an adult sucked.

“I honestly don’t know.” Taking a deep breath, she rallied. “I’m not your problem.”

“Chère, you’re anything but a problem. You’re a joy and a gift.” The low, intimate tone made her toes curl and her breath catch in her throat. How was she supposed to respond to that? Her wolf pawed, wanting out so she could rub herself against him. The animal part of her had desperately

missed her pack. Being alone sucked for a wolf.

She swallowed heavily but said nothing, grateful for the distraction when Gracie pushed a loaded tray toward her. After distributing all the drinks, she started clearing tables as they emptied. It was only half an hour until closing.

Fortunately, the Landry brothers didn’t offer their help again. Seemed they’d gotten the message, which was good. It wasn’t smart to make enemies. She had no idea where they were from or how big their pack was.

Oh, God, were there more of them out there? Was she safe? Was Etienne?

Don’t panic. The mundane tasks of washing down the tables and ferrying dirty dishes to the kitchen helped her center herself. Don’t borrow trouble. This was the first time any wolves had shown up at Milton’s. It was her sheer bad luck that all of them had shown up on the same night.

She purposely stayed away from Etienne and the Landry brothers. It wasn’t cowardly. She preferred to see it as prudent. The clock ticked down until there were only ten minutes left. The place had cleared out except for a few stragglers.

When Luc pushed back his chair and stood, she heaved a sigh of relief. Until he headed in her direction with his brother right behind him.

“Good night.” Polite, yet firm. She hoped he’d take the hint.

The corners of his lips twitched. Good thing one of them found this funny. She was tempted to kick him in the shin, but decided it wouldn’t be smart.

Colton leaned in closer and rattled off a number. She tilted her head to one side in question.

“Call us if you need help.”

The gesture was sweet but pointless. “Thank you.” Telling them it wasn’t necessary would only make them dig their heels in harder, and they might not willingly leave.

Both men stiffened as an arm slipped around her waist. “Problem?” Etienne’s tone was mild, but she wasn’t fooled one bit. Tension radiated, pulsing through the space. The few remaining customers practically stampeded to the door.

“No problem.” She waved the brothers away. “They were just leaving.”

“Maybe we should stay?” Luc hooked his thumbs in his jeans pockets and glared at Etienne.

“Amy?”

“You really should go. We don’t need any trouble.” There were still full-human staff here, all of them watching the confrontation unfold.

Luc gave a curt nod. “Remember what my brother told you.” He curled his lip at Etienne and gave a low growl. Etienne remained relaxed by her side, not antagonizing. Not that he’d have to.

Intensity bled from his pores. It was off-putting to folks who didn’t know him. The Landry brothers would take it as a challenge.

“That is enough.” She stamped her foot on the floor. “You’re all acting like juvenile pups.

What’s next? Are you going to whip out your dicks and pee on the floor to show dominance?”

Colton chuckled, but the other two weren’t laughing.

“I mean it. I won’t have trouble in here.” What she could do to stop them, she had no idea, but she was following the example of her momma and the other ladies of her pack. They didn’t put their foot down often, so when they did, the males tended to listen.

Etienne sighed and nodded.

Luc sneered until she glared at him and pointed toward the door. Lifting his chin in a gesture of goodbye, he left, taking his brother with him.

“Who the hell were they?” He didn’t raise his voice, didn’t have to. Etienne was not happy.

“Luc and Colton Landry.” There was no reason to withhold the truth. And honestly, he’d find out whether she told him or not. If he couldn’t dig out the information on his own, he’d involve the pack, which meant involving her daddy, something she wanted to avoid. “This is the first night they’ve been here. They honestly seemed concerned that I was here on my own.”

“I’ll bet.”

She spun around and frowned. “What’s that supposed to mean?”

“It means you’re not safe. It means you’re an unmated female, and they’re likely unmated or they wouldn’t have been sniffing around you. They were posturing, trying to show they could protect you.”

“They were being nice. I’m not having this discussion.” She tried to walk off, but he stepped in front of her.

“I’m serious.”

“So am I.” She poked her finger into his chest. It was like hitting stone. “Maybe they did find me attractive. Hell, maybe I found them attractive.”

A growl so low it didn’t make a sound vibrated through the space. He was angry and letting her know. Well, too bad for him. She wasn’t too happy herself.

“Maybe they were being nice. They said they had a sister. They left, didn’t they?” Not that she hadn’t had misgivings earlier.

“Would they have left if I weren’t here?” He didn’t yell or raise his voice. Perversely, his calm, logical question—one she’d asked herself, not that she would admit it to him—had her hackles rising.

“What does it matter?” She threw up her hands. “They’re gone.” Without a fight or bloodshed, which was all that mattered.

“I hate to break this up, but we’re closed.” Gracie walked to the door and opened it. “You have to leave.”

Amy tensed, but she should have known better. Etienne was nothing if not in control. “I’m driving you home.” He was stubborn enough to remain rooted to the spot if she refused. And a part of her wanted to talk to him, longed for news from home.

“You’ll drive me back to my lodgings.” It was best to clarify with tricky wolves.

The corners of his mouth twitched. “Wherever you want to go.” Any hint of humor fled. “As long as you understand I’ll be with you. You’re not alone. Not anymore.” He tipped his head at Gracie as he left.

The older woman slammed the door shut and bolted it. Not that a paltry steel door and two deadbolts would keep out a male wolf, but she didn’t know that.

“That was one intense discussion. You sure you’re safe? You can sneak out the back and come home with me. I know how to handle a gun, and I’m not afraid to use it.”

Gracie’s generosity stunned her. That she’d be willing to put herself in such a position said so much about her character. Amy wrapped her arms around her. She was taller than her friend, even if Gracie mothered her.

“Thank you.” The lump in her throat made it difficult to speak. “Etienne may be a lot of things, but he’d never hurt me. Hell, he’s even fiercer than you when it comes to protecting me.”

“He implied as much when I gave him a warning earlier. Thought I was right about him but wanted to be sure.”

Talk about major respect. Not many humans would dare stand up to a male wolf. They gave off a deadly, feral vibe without even trying. “You’re something else, you know that?” After a final

squeeze, she released Gracie.

“So my daddy told me a long time ago.” On a laugh, she patted Amy’s arm. “Get your things and go. I’ll finish cleaning up here. You have a man waiting for you.”

“You sure?”

“Go.”

The inevitable couldn’t be put off any longer. Amy grabbed her belongings and briefly thought about ducking out the back way, but in the end, she went through the front door. A familiar green truck was parked off to the side, giving him a vantage point to both the front and back of the building.

He hadn’t taken any chances.

Taking a deep breath, she strode across the lot.

****

Etienne gripped the steering wheel with both hands, only letting up on the pressure when it began to crack. Deep breath in. Deep breath out. It was a deliberate action on his part to bring his tension down a notch before Amy got here.

He’d prowled the area, circling the bar before getting into his truck, not convinced the Landry brothers had really left. Colton was easygoing. Not his brother. The way Luc had watched Amy, the glint in his eyes, bothered him.

No matter what the other male said, no matter that he’d left, he wanted Amy. Why she couldn’t see it, he didn’t know. It was as plain to him as if the other wolf had proclaimed it to the world.

They were gone. For now. But they’d be back as long as Amy was here. An already volatile situation had gotten worse because she wasn’t ready to go home. Whatever she was searching for, she hadn’t found. It was up to him to see that she did so they could leave this place behind forever.

When the door opened, he tensed, only relaxing when Amy stepped outside. He climbed out, walked around to the passenger side, and opened the door. She didn’t say anything as she got in.

He scanned the lot and the woods beyond, sensing only a rabbit and a fox. An owl hooted from behind him. The fine hairs on the back of his neck rose. One or both of them had circled around.

If he was a betting man, one of them would try to follow in the truck. The other would track them in wolf form. He’d bet it was Luc watching him.

Etienne climbed in, cranked the key, and put the truck in gear.

“Do you need directions?”

“No.” He made a right-hand turn.

“Ah, you’re going the wrong way.”

“Put on your seat belt.”

“Why? What’s wrong?” She twisted around, looking out the back window.

“There was someone watching from the woods.” He reached across her and grabbed the belt.

“Put it on.”

“Not someone.” She snapped on the safety harness. “It’s Luc, isn’t it?”

“Yeah, chère. It’s him.” He hated to worry her, but she needed to be on her guard.

She leaned her head back, thumping it on the seat rest. “You gonna tell me you were right and I was wrong?”

“Right now, I’m going to try to lose them. I’ll say ‘I told you so’ when you’re safe.”

“You had to go there, didn’t you?” Underneath her sassy retort was a thread of worry that he hated.

“How could I not?” he teased, trying to distract her. He’d driven these roads earlier. There was a country road ahead that circled back around. “Hang on.” He killed the lights, made a sharp turn,

and hit the gas. The bed of the truck fishtailed before the heavy tires dug into the gravel.

He didn’t need light to see, but neither did the men trying to track them. A howl ripped through the night. No fucking way was he leading them to Amy’s place.

Her face was pale, but she was steady as he swerved off the dirt road onto an ATV track.

Branches scraped against the doors. They went airborne when he hit a bump, landing with a jolt. He bounced but braced himself, staying focused.

Another sharp turn and they flew across a meadow and onto the main road, now heading in the right direction. He flicked the headlights back on in case they ran into the cops.

“How you doing?”

“Fine. Glad I didn’t eat anything earlier. Is this really necessary?”

“Yes. Keep a watch for any vehicle following us.” She had a keen, artistic eye and saw details that many missed.

“On it.”

Luc really had done him a favor. This little hunt and chase had put Amy in the position of working with him. It was a subtle reminder of how well they’d always done together.

When they got close to her rental, he killed the lights and turned into the parking lot. “Stay in the truck.” He turned off the engine, but kept the keys in the ignition. “Switch places with me.” Rather than get out, he undid her seat belt and lifted her, shifting her into the driver’s seat.

“Why? What are you doing?”

He lifted her hand to his lips and kissed her pulse, noting how it jumped. “Nothing, unless I have to. If Luc shows up, I’ll deal with him. You take the truck and go. Head to North Carolina.” He gave her a squeeze before releasing her. “You might not be ready to go home, but if he chases you here, it’s no longer safe. You’re daddy would kill me if I let something happen to you.”

“What about you?” she asked. “You’re not invincible.”

He grinned, pleased that she was worried about him. That meant she cared. “Maybe not, but my daddy would kill me, too, if I didn’t protect you.”

“Men,” she huffed.

“You love us anyway.” He tossed the “L” word out there to see how she’d react.

“Most days.” Her shoulders tightening, she settled back into the driver’s seat. “How long do we wait?”

“As long as it takes.” As much as he wanted to talk, securing her safety came first. “Wait here and lock the doors behind me. I’m going to scout around, see if I scent them.”

“Be careful.” She grabbed his face, pulled him toward her, and kissed him. It was over almost as soon as it began, but the heat warmed his soul—and had other areas of his body reacting.

“Would you miss me?” He was only half kidding. A part of him needed confirmation.

“You know I would.”

He’d hoped, but was no longer certain he could predict what she thought or felt. Not in a million years would he have foreseen she’d bolt from the pack as she had.

Since he’d long ago disconnected the cab light, it didn’t come on as he slipped out. He waited until he heard the thunk of the locks engaging. They wouldn’t stop a wolf but might buy her enough time to get away.

Standing in the shadows, he removed his clothes and tossed them into the bed of the truck. The night air flowed over his body, doing nothing to cool his heated flesh. As soon as he embraced the change, his wolf leaped forward, ready and anxious to protect their mate.

Because that’s what she was. She just didn’t know it yet.

Chapter Five

Unable to look away, Amy watched Etienne shift. She’d seen him do it hundreds of times before, but this time it was different. He was heading into danger.

Because of me.

His jaw elongated and his head flattened. His limbs contracted as he fell forward, hands and feet morphing into huge paws. Thick fur covered him, as black as the darkness surrounding him. The shadows embraced him, swallowing him whole except for the piercing blue eyes. Ears twitching, he raised his head and sniffed the air. Without a sound, he vanished into the night. If she wasn’t sitting in his truck, she’d wonder if she’d truly seen him or if it had only been wishful thinking on her part.

She’d missed him. More than she’d thought she would. He’d been a part of her life forever, always there for her, always ready to be a part of whatever wacky idea she’d cooked up when they were kids. He’d steadied her, talked her out of some crazy schemes.

Why did things have to change?

Gripping the wheel, she shelved the question for now. Luc had followed them. That meant Colton was likely out there, as well. It didn’t take a psychic to know they were close.

She counted to a hundred. Then did it again. Unable to take the stifling heat, she lowered a window and listened. She’d always loved the night. The world was quieter, the stars carpeting the vast sky. Tonight there was no comfort to be found. Etienne was out there alone, possibly facing both of the Landrys.

Why hadn’t they grabbed her belongings and left? She wasn’t ready to go home, but she didn’t exactly have her heart set on staying here. Not if it wasn’t safe. She might be uncertain about her future, but she wasn’t stupid. A woman alone, even a wolf, needed to be cautious.

The minutes stretched out, her nerves near the snapping point.

“Damn it.” Disregarding his instructions, she eased out of the vehicle, leaned against it, and scanned the lot. Other than the young man in his twenties who worked the night shift in the office, there was no one else around. All the other windows were dark, except for one with a flickering light, probably from the television. At this time of night, the other people who lived here were in bed. The eerie hum from the nearby electrical wires was like fingernails on a chalkboard.

“Where are you?” she muttered.

“Right here.”

She spun around and almost rammed into Etienne. He moved like a ghost, even quieter than her father, which was damn impressive. Strong hands clutched her shoulders. “You didn’t stay in the truck.”

She wouldn’t feel guilty about that. “You were gone too long.” It wasn’t easy to concentrate while staring at a vast expanse of prime male chest. Every muscle was delineated, his skin tanned from all the time he spent outside without a shirt. He smelled like fresh pine, crisp air, and rich earth.

“I assume there’s no one out there.” Otherwise, he’d have tossed her in the vehicle and driven away.

“And no sign they’ve been there, but that could change.”

He was right. This wasn’t the time or place to ogle his naked body. “We should go inside.”

While he grabbed his clothes from the truck, she went to unlock the door and found it broken.

Her pulse leaped. There was no one here now. Whoever had been here was gone. It wasn’t like she had a lot to steal. Everything important was with her. But the sense of violation angered her.

How dare they?

She pushed the door open, stepped inside, and sniffed the air. Damn it. “You were here.”

He crowded in behind her, moving her inward. “Let’s not have this discussion where the neighbors might overhear.”

Furious, she whirled around. He’d pulled his jeans on, but his chest and feet were bare. The space had always seemed cramped, the walls closing in around her. With him here, it was even smaller, threatening to crush her.

Her breath caught in her throat. Her lungs seized. Panicked, she tried to suck in a breath.

“Amy.” He shoved her down onto the end of the bed and knelt in front of her. “Look at me.”

Big hands cradled her head so she had no choice but to comply. “Breathe,” he ordered.

She managed a raspy gasp. Sweat broke out all over her body.

“In through your nose. Out through your mouth. You can do it, sweetheart.”

Whether it was his absolute belief in her or the shock of the endearment, she drew air into her lungs.

“That’s it. You’re doing great.” He breathed with her, matching to hers until they were in harmony. Hers was little more than a wheeze at first but eventually steadied.

Heat crept up her cheeks. Was it possible to die of mortification? She wanted to dive beneath the covers and hide until he went away. Yeah, like that would happen.

She attempted to speak, but the words caught in her throat. She’d always been self-assured and confident in herself as a wolf and a woman. She lowered her head. What must he think of her now?

“Hey.” He caught the edge of her chin and lifted. “This is nothing to be ashamed of. It’s not surprising it happened considering how much you’ve had thrown at you tonight. You were already under a tremendous amount of stress. A wolf isn’t meant to be alone.”

His calm and matter-of-fact assessment of the situation made it easier to accept. These past weeks had tested her limits, both physically and mentally. But the biggest toll had been on her emotions. She was a people person. It was in her nature to love those around her.

Leaving her pack had been like cutting out her heart.

Rather than focus on the loneliness and despair that had dogged her every step of her journey, she embraced her anger. “You broke into my home.”

He snorted and sat back on his heels. “This isn’t home.”

No, it wasn’t. “That’s not the point. It’s where I’m living.”

“Is that what this is?”

She clenched her fists in her lap. It was either that or slug him. The gratitude of moments ago bled away. “You’re Mr. Know It All. Is that it? The great Etienne Rollins is God and knows what people need.”

He shook his head, his shaggy hair brushing his shoulders. “No, but I know what you need.”

“Is that right?” Restless, she wanted to pace, but he was in front of her, blocking her. She could push him away, but that would mean touching him. Not a good idea. She feared if she did, she’d drag him back on the bed and find another way to work off all the excess adrenaline pouring through her veins.

“You’re afraid.”

He did not just say that. Her chin went up. Her back snapped ramrod straight. “I’m not afraid of anyone or anything. You take that back.” Oh, God, she was regressing to childhood. She needed to get him out of here so she could center herself and act like the reasonable adult she was.

“You’re one of the bravest people I know. A daredevil.” He flashed a grin that made her heart skip a beat. “You’ll try anything.”

Now she was totally confused. “I don’t understand.” Maybe it was exhaustion after working for so long. Maybe it was hunger. But he’d totally lost her.

“Look at you.” He motioned to the room around them. “You set off on your own. I get it. You needed to spread your wings and test your limits. That’s who you are.” He crowded closer, until he was between her legs, their lips inches apart.

She swallowed heavily.

“But the reason you ran was because you were afraid. Of us.” He brushed his lips over hers.

Her breath caught in her throat, not from panic this time but from longing. Her toes curled in her sneakers. “Of this,” he whispered before his tongue slid past her lips.

If anything, it was better than she remembered. She’d wondered more than once if she’d made too much about their first kiss, if the memory of it was better than the reality.

If anything, she’d underestimated the impact. Longing, painful and deep, slammed into her. It was a good thing she was already sitting down or she’d have been knocked on her ass.

When his tongue touched hers, she made a small sound of hunger. Grabbing fistfuls of his hair, she kissed him back. She wanted to rub her face all over his chest, imprinting her scent on him, marking him as hers.

Wait. What?

He tilted his head, deepening the caress, and any hope of rational thought went out the window.

The taste of him was divine. His hands stroked up her thighs, over the curve of her hips, and into the dip of her waist. Her nipples puckered, silently begging for his touch. But he went no further.

She wanted to groan, to stamp her feet in frustration. Her top and bra were too confining. The room was too hot. Or maybe it was her. Her skin was flushed. The throbbing ache between her thighs grew.

He pulled away from her lips and worked along the curve of her jaw up to her ear, leaving hot, biting kisses in his wake. The nip at her earlobe stopped short of pain, although it made her yelp in surprise.

“I want you, Amy Blanchard. That’s what you’re afraid of.”

It was like a bucket of cold water being dumped on her. She shoved his shoulders, pushing him back far enough for her to pull up her legs and roll away. Gasping, her chest heaving, she stood beside the bed and glared. “Sure of yourself, aren’t you?”

Even though he remained on his knees, his hair tousled from where she’d clutched it, his lips moist from their kisses, he was in no way defeated or discouraged. His ability to set a goal and reach it, no matter what it took, was something she’d always admired.

Now it scared her to death.

Not that she for one second thought he’d take whatever he wanted. No, her fear was that he’d convince her he was right. If they were to ever have a relationship—and it weirded her out that she was even considering it—she needed to be certain it was her decision and not just the path of least resistance.

He shook his head. “I’ve never been less sure about anything in my life. You hold all the power here. I’ve made my intentions clear. The rest is up to you.”

The room seemed to spin around her. “I don’t want that kind of power.” The very idea was terrifying. Etienne was as alpha as they came. For him to relinquish control like that left her speechless. “I… I don’t know what to say.”

He stood and prowled toward her, stopping short of touching her. “You say what’s true, what you want. If you haven’t figured it out yet, I’ll wait until you do.”

A light sheen of sweat covered his bare chest. His erection was clearly outlined in the front of his jeans. He was aroused and doing nothing to hide it.

He was making himself vulnerable.

His bravery shamed her. Rather than face up to her feelings, she’d run. “You’re right.” She owed him this much. “What happened between us scared me. It was only a kiss, but I wanted more.”

“Change isn’t always easy. Especially not something that rocks the foundation of your world.

But, Amy, it rocked mine, too.”

She jerked, startled by his confession. Why had she assumed it had been an easy adjustment for him? An old memory popped into her head. “You were going to marry Emma.” A younger packmate. They’d both been children when she’d been born.

Etienne laughed and rubbed a hand across the back of his neck. “Yeah, no one wants to let me forget that. In my defense, I was eight when I announced that. I assumed it would work out the way I’d planned, but feelings aren’t always logical. Yes, I love Emma, but like a little sister. I was enthralled with her, spent time feeding her, holding her.” When he smiled, the lines of his face softened. “It’s impossible to separate what I feel for her now from that. It’s different with you.” He raised his hand, but then dropped it.

He went to the window and eased back a corner of the curtain, looking out at the parking lot.

“We were kids together, but I always saw you as my friend, my equal, like Nicholas and Aaron.”

They were the alpha’s sons, and they’d all run wild over pack land.

“Then one day, I noticed you again.” He lowered the curtain. “And there you were. A beautiful woman who made my heart stop. This isn’t a whim. I thought long and hard about taking the next step.”

Of course, he had. No one studied a problem like Etienne. He’d likely considered all the possible outcomes and created strategies to get what he wanted.

“I was risking our friendship.” He jammed his hands in his pockets, bringing her attention to his erection, which hadn’t gone down in the slightest. “But it’s worth it. You’re worth it. Whatever you decide, I’ll accept. And I’ll always be your friend.”

Tears filled her eyes. She blinked to keep them from spilling over. He didn’t pull any punches, laying himself bare. “I don’t want to hurt you.” She rubbed her hand over her chest. “I don’t want to be hurt.”

“Why don’t we take it one day at a time? We don’t need to make any decisions tonight, tomorrow night, or even a month from now.”

That seemed too easy. It made her nervous. “If we go home, it will be impossible.” No way would the rest of the pack not notice the change between them.

Was she really considering doing this? Giving them a chance?

“Not to mention your daddy might kill me.” He chuckled, making light of it, but it was a real concern. No one was more protective over her than her daddy.

The way out of this was stunningly easy. If she went home, Etienne would be forced to back off.

Then she’d never know if the longings he stirred in her and the emotions swirling inside her were real or simply a passing infatuation. There was only one way to find out.

“You can stay.” She held up her hand to stop him from speaking. “I’m not saying I’ll have sex with you.” The words threatened to catch in her throat, but she shoved them out. “Or mate. But I’m willing to give it a few days. Then we’ll evaluate.” They’d never spent much time alone together.

There’d always been other members of the pack around or nearby.

“Thank you.”

That left her with a more immediate problem. “Ah, there’s only one bed.”

The devil grinned. Did he expect to share it with her?

“I can take the floor or crash in my truck. Doesn’t matter to me. We can find somewhere else to stay tomorrow. Something with two bedrooms or at least one bed and a couch. Fair enough?”

It was more than fair. To her. He was the one left with an uncomfortable sleeping arrangement.

“That’s fine.” It was a warm night. Not like he’d be cold even if it wasn’t. But sending him outside to sleep seemed petty. “You can crash in here tonight.”

“I appreciate that. With the lock broken on the door, I’d feel better. I don’t think Luc Landry is the kind to give up easily.”

She rubbed her hands over her arms. “I think you’re right. I was planning on leaving Monday after I got my paycheck.”

Etienne’s growl vibrated through the floor. “I almost missed you.”

If he’d been a few days more, he very well might have. Fate was fickle. Maybe he was meant to find her, for them to figure this out once and for all.

“You don’t need to wait for Monday. I have money.”

“I want my own money.” She’d worked since she was a teenager, not wanting to rely on anyone more than necessary.

“How did I know you’d say that?” he grumbled.

She batted her eyelashes, falling back into teasing him the way she always had. “Because you know me so well.”

He opened his arms wide. “Come here. No pressure.”

She went, sighing in relief when his strong arms wrapped around her. Closing her eyes, she rested her cheek against his chest. Wolves needed touch, and she’d been deprived. Her body craved it. Her soul cried for it.

He rested his chin on the top of her head. “I missed you.”

Those simple words tore at her heart. “I missed you, too.”

They stood there for the longest time. Her wolf settled, the restlessness that plagued her subsiding.

He pulled back and kissed her forehead. “As much as I hate to stop, I need to call home.

Jacque wanted to be informed as soon as I found you. I’ve already waited longer than I should have.”

A direct order from the alpha was rare and not to be ignored. Unless you wanted to pay the consequences. Nervous all over again, she perched on the end of the bed and wrapped her arms around herself.

“Hey.” He sat beside her. “I told him I wouldn’t force you to go home.”

That boggled her mind. “You said that to Jacque LaForge, our alpha?” No one argued with Jacque when he gave a direct order. Except maybe his mate, Gwen, and that special relationship allowed for some leeway.

He brushed a lock of hair off her forehead. “I’m on your side, Amy. If you need to spread your wings and fly, I’ll help make it happen. I won’t deny I’m hoping it will make you realize how much you miss home. I want you to come back, but on your terms.”

“No pressure, though,” she muttered. And there wasn’t. Only what she put on herself. He really was a brilliant tactician. She could almost hate him for that. “Let’s get this over with.”

With a shake of his head, he pulled out his phone. “I promised I’d text him your location. I can do that if you’d prefer.”

Suddenly, she felt petty and small. Her family was worried about her. She was fortunate to have them, lucky they cared. “I should have done it sooner.” She put out her hand. “Give me your phone.”

****

Luc Landry swore as he climbed into the truck beside his brother. “I can’t believe we lost the bastard.” He wanted to keep searching, but he had responsibilities that wouldn’t wait. The plan had been simple—follow them and grab Amy when the other wolf wasn’t looking.

Colton shrugged. “Looked to me like she was more than happy to leave with him.”

It bugged him that the situation didn’t seem to bother his brother. It wasn’t that Colton didn’t care. It was that they had enough problems of their own without getting involved in someone else’s.

Watching her leave with another male wolf had infuriated him. He was positive she’d done it to keep a fight from breaking out. “I’m not so sure.”

“What else can we do? I wasn’t expecting him to be able to lose me so easily. We know where she works. We can talk to her again tomorrow or Monday.”

Not likely. If he were the other wolf, he’d already be a hundred miles from here. The idea that she might not be safe haunted him. It was an all too familiar scenario. But his brother was right. There was nothing more to be done tonight.

“We need to get back.” They’d taken up residence in a nearby abandoned cabin. They were safe there, away from prying eyes. They’d kept in touch by text all evening, but their sister would be worried.

Chapter Six

Etienne had never been prouder of Amy. She looked ready to fall asleep sitting up, but she wasn’t backing down from this latest challenge.

He understood why she’d resisted contacting Jacque. If the alpha ordered her back to North Carolina, she risked losing her home forever if she refused. It wasn’t likely he’d pull rank like that, but he was under pressure from Amy’s parents, who wanted her back under their roof.

“It’s late.” The screen of his phone glowed. He stayed quiet. Whatever she did had to be her decision. “Damn it.” She pulled up his contacts and speed-dialed. It only rang once before it was answered.

“Have you found her?” Jacque demanded.

“He found me.” Amy nibbled on her bottom lip. Etienne stifled a groan, trying to ignore his raging hard-on. Not easy when she was right beside him. He reached down and subtly readjusted his erection. It didn’t help.

“Amy.” Jacque’s voice softened. “Are you okay, honey?”

A tear escaped from the corner of her eye and rolled down her cheek. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to cause trouble.”

“We’re all worried about you.” It was the truth, but Etienne hated the way her shoulders slumped and her head lowered in defeat.

“I had to leave.”

The alpha sighed. “I’m not saying I don’t understand because I do.” Jacque, his brother, cousin, and two friends, including Etienne’s father, had broken away from their pack decades ago and forged a new path for themselves. But they had one another, hadn’t been alone. There was strength in numbers.

He gave her leg a squeeze of encouragement. She dropped her free hand on top of his, gripping it like a lifeline. “I’ll call my parents, but I’m not ready to come home.”

“That could be a problem.” Etienne straightened, not liking the note of command in Jacque’s voice.

Amy paled, her hand visibly shaking. “What are you saying?”

Before the alpha could give her an ultimatum, Etienne pried his phone out of her clenched fingers. “I’ll stay with her. She needs time.” In other words, if he made her come home now, she’d be miserable and maybe run again. You couldn’t pen in a wolf. Their wild natures wouldn’t allow it.

“Amy, I know you can hear me. Talk to your folks. Whatever you decide between you, I’ll respect.”

“Thank you,” she whispered.

“Don’t let anything happen to her.”

“I’ll guard her with my life.”

“Don’t do anything stupid. I want you both back here in one piece. Be safe. And for God’s sake, call if you need us.” The line went dead.

Etienne lowered his phone. “See, that wasn’t so bad.”

She gave a sputter of laughter that verged on tears. “Yeah, that was a cakewalk compared to the next call I have to make.” Her big eyes were luminous. “Thank you.”

He brushed his knuckles over her cheek. “I’m always on your side.”

“I’m beginning to believe that.” She swiped at her face. “Let’s do this.” She took his phone and punched in a number.

“Where is my daughter?” Cole Blanchard’s voice was hard and unforgiving.

“I’m here, Daddy.”

“Tell me you’re on your way home.”

She was shaking her head even as she spoke. “I can’t.”

“Amy.” There was so much pain in that one word. Etienne’s heart broke for the man, but her needs came first.

“I need to do this. You have to trust me.”

“How can I protect you if you’re not here? Is that what drove you away?”

“No! You’re the best daddy in the world.” She rested her head on Etienne’s shoulder. He wasn’t sure she was aware of what she was doing, but she was seeking comfort from him. “You always told me I could do anything?”

“I’m regretting that at this moment.” When she made a small sound of pain, he relented.

“Damn it, I don’t regret it, but I want to be there, to catch you if you fall.”

If there was a bigger, scarier wolf in existence than Cole, Etienne hadn’t met him. In spite of that, maybe even because of it, he was an amazing father, protective and encouraging with a heart as big as a mountain.

“Amy.” Her mother’s voice came over the line. “Is Etienne with you?”

“I’m here,” he answered. “And I’m not going anywhere until she’s ready to come back. If she’s ever ready.” It was better that there were no more secrets or surprises.

“I see.” And he could tell that she did.

“I need this time,” Amy said. “We need this time.” Hearing her acknowledge that they were a couple, or a potential one, raised his hopes.

“When did you grow up?” Cole sounded resigned. “I want you happy. I wish you could find what you need here with us, with your family.”

Etienne wanted to howl when her entire body jerked like she’d taken a blow. While he understood where her parents were coming from, he wouldn’t allow anyone to hurt her.

“We’ll stay in regular contact.”

“Don’t let anything happen to her.” It was both a warning and a threat. “That is my daughter.

She and my mate are the most precious things in my world.”

“There’s no one more important to me than Amy.” He had nothing to hide, not anymore. He ended the call. “I think that went well.”

She flopped back on the bed, her arms over her face. “My daddy just threatened you.”

It was no more than he’d expected. He shrugged. “I’d have been disappointed in him if he hadn’t.”

She lowered her arm, her expression one of disbelief. “Is that a guy thing?”

He swallowed back a laugh. “It’s a father thing. And speaking of those, I need to contact mine.”

“I’m so sorry. I’m being selfish. Your parents can’t be happy about this.”

“They understand.” Or he hoped they did. He hated the idea of hurting them. The phone was answered on the first ring.

“Oui?”

“I found Amy.”

“This is good. When will you be home? We’ll have a feast to celebrate.”

“Don’t start cooking just yet. It may take a while.” He wasn’t about to tell him it might never happen.

There was a long pause. “I see.” He feared his father did. Gator Rollins was outgoing and perpetually in motion, but there was no one more observant. “You will keep in touch daily.”

“Of course.” He missed his parents and hated that this situation was upsetting to them. “Love you both.” He ended the call and tucked his phone away. “Let’s get some sleep. The sun will be coming up soon.”

He was exhausted from days of searching and weeks of worry. Whatever the future held, he needed to be at full strength to deal with it. Grabbing a pillow, he tossed it on the floor beside the bed and stretched out on the worn carpet, trying not to think about how dirty it was.

The mattress creaked when Amy rolled to the edge and stared down at him. “That’s it? That’s all you have to say?”

“What else is there?” He was too tired to worry about anything else tonight. “Whatever happens, we’ll deal with it. After a good night’s sleep.”

When she nibbled on her lower lip, his cock strained against his jeans. The woman tempted him without even trying. “That can’t be comfortable.”

Shit, had she noticed his erection? Fortunately, she wasn’t looking at his groin but at his face.

“What can’t be comfortable?”

“The floor.” Her gaze shot lower. “That can’t be comfortable either.”

“You have no idea,” he muttered. He’d jerked himself off more in the past six weeks than he had in the last six years, unable to forget the taste of Amy, the feel of her pressed against him. It was the only thing that had given him any relief, the only thing that blocked out the worry, if only for a short time.

It was a pale imitation of the original. Having her so close was both a blessing and a curse.

There would be many icy showers in the days ahead. The last thing he wanted to do was pressure her.

“I think I do.” Her confession was shyly given. He sat up and leaned against the side of the mattress.

“You thought about me?” It helped to know he wasn’t the only one dealing with sexual frustration.

She laughed and flopped onto her back. “I’ve thought of little else.”

There was a huge, shit-eating grin on his face, but he couldn’t help it. “Any time you want to do more than think about it, feel free to reach out.”

Her giggle lightened his heart. When she looked at him, he waggled his eyebrows. She rolled from side-to-side, her laughter growing. Then she burst into tears.

“Fuck.” He scrambled up onto the bed and pulled her into his arms. “I didn’t mean to upset you. Forget I said anything.” After his promise not to pressure her, what had he done? Pressure her.

He hadn’t meant to.

“It’s not that. Well, it is, but it’s all of it.”

“I get it.” He kissed her temple. “It’s been an emotional day.”

She nodded, her hair brushing his face. The smells from the bar clung to her, but beneath it was her sweet scent. Ignoring his erection, he pulled her closer and stroked her back, soothing her.

The occasional tear dampened his chest, each one breaking his heart. She should never have to cry.

Unrealistic, sure, but when it came to Amy, logic went out the window.

She snuffled, her breathing softening. Her hand pressed against his chest. Lying there in a cheap rent-by-the-day-or-week-or-month motel with peeling paint on the walls and ceiling, on a lumpy mattress, Etienne’s world was complete. Because Amy was in his arms where she was supposed to be.

Their heads shared a pillow, since the other one was still on the floor and he wasn’t about to move to get it. He’d finally gotten her into bed with him. He would have laughed if he wasn’t so aroused. But even the throbbing in his groin couldn’t dim the pure joy of being with her.

He’d found her. Now all he had to do was find a way to get her to claim him. “We’ll figure it out,” he whispered. She stirred but settled again, her lips slightly parted on a light snore.

Smiling, he closed his eyes and slept.

****

A large masculine body wrapped around her, his chest against her back, his arm around her waist, and his big hand cupping her breast.

Amy didn’t want to wake up, wanted to drift in this lovely fantasy and avoid reality for as long as possible. Wait. Would I know I’m dreaming if I’m still asleep? She cracked her eyes open and then slammed them shut.

It was no dream man holding her but Etienne. Awake, the memories came pouring back.

“Good morning.” The voice was rough with sleep, his breath warm on her neck. Goosebumps raced down her arms. He shifted position behind her. “Make that good afternoon.” He tossed his phone onto the built-in nightstand. “I didn’t mean to fall asleep in your bed last night.”

The other pillow was on the floor, and he was still wearing his jeans. The last thing she remembered was him comforting her, rubbing his big hand up and down her back. “It’s fine. Not the first time we’ve shared a bed.”

His lips teased the curve of her shoulder. “I was ten and you were eight. That doesn’t count.”

It was certainly different. There was nothing innocent about the thick erection poking her in the back. Her nipples were standing at attention like good little soldiers, ready and willing to handle whatever came their way.

His hand squeezed her breast lightly before easing away. “Didn’t mean to do that either but not sorry I did.”

She wasn’t sorry either. Her body instantly responded to his nearness. While she’d kissed other guys—full humans—there’d been mild interest but never this depth of attraction.

If she were human, she could go with the flow, test the waters and see how things went. But they were wolves. If she had sex with Etienne, she risked being marked and mated. Not that he’d do it on purpose without her permission, but sometimes the wilder side of their nature took control.

It was too big a risk to take unless she was ready to live with the possible consequences.

“What are you thinking about so hard, chère?” He eased the neck of her shirt down and nibbled on the curve of her shoulder. Delicious shivers raced through her, followed by a flash of heat.

“I’m not ready.” It was easier to share her feelings when she wasn’t looking at him.

“Hmmm.” He nuzzled her ear. “We don’t have to go all the way. We can play a little.”

Her temperature spiked and a moan of longing escaped.

“Like that idea, do you? I’m full of them.” He flicked his tongue over the whorls of her ears.

Oh, she liked that. Delicate shivers were followed by another flash of heat. He kept this up much longer and she’d be dragging her clothes off and jumping him.

“I’m sure you are. I’m also not sure they’re smart.” Yet, she tilted her head to one side, giving him better access.

His laugh was low and wicked, making her pussy clench. “I can smell your arousal, sweetheart.”

She closed her eyes and prayed for strength. There was no hiding anything from a wolf, not when they were this close.

“Let me pleasure you.”

She bit her bottom lip to keep from yelling, “Yes!” Getting herself off wasn’t nearly as satisfying as she suspected having his hands on her would be.

“I’ll keep my jeans on. I promise.”

Her breathing was so fast she was almost panting. “That’s not fair to you.” Because if he promised he’d keep his pants on, he would. Etienne’s word was solid gold.

“Let me decide what’s fair. Hmmm.” With his face buried in her neck, he inhaled sharply.

“I’ve dreamed of this for weeks. Not knowing where you were almost killed me.”

She ducked her head, shame swamping her.

“Non, you do not feel sorry for this. You did what you needed to do.” He rolled her onto her back, looming over her. The intensity of his gaze was almost too much to bear. “It would be a gift to be able to touch you, to learn what makes you sigh with pleasure, to hear you call my name as you find release.”

Hell, she was close to coming now without him having to touch her. He was seducing her with nothing but words.

He ran his hand over her hair, teasing the ends with his fingers. “When you were a little girl, you were like a fairy princess with your golden hair and green eyes. I remember you had a tiara your father bought for you. You wore it for months.”

“I still have it.” It sat in a place of pride on her dresser at home.

“You always loved sparkly things. You flitted around, spreading joy in your wake. I was always fascinated, but saw you as only my friend. Then I woke one day and you’d changed. The princess was gone. In her place was a fucking queen, proud and wild.”

It was a revelation to see herself through his eyes. “You really think I’ve changed that much?”

To her, she was the same as she’d always been.

“You are as bright and inquisitive as ever. You enjoy people.” His slow grin set her blood to pumping. “That is a flaw I can overlook.”

She laughed, something she hadn’t thought possible given the intensity of their conversation.

But Etienne wasn’t a stranger. He was her friend, the person who knew her better than anyone. “And you don’t enjoy people.”

He shrugged. “I like some of them well enough.” His fingers traced the curve of her cheek. “I like you best of all.”

Was she disappointed he hadn’t said he loved her? That would be fickle and unfair since she wasn’t sure of her own feelings. It was difficult to sort through them, to assess the changes and figure out if they were real or wishful thinking.

Not that he seemed to be suffering from the same problem.

He slipped his hand under her shirt, resting it on her stomach. The muscles contracted.

“Whatever we do is up to you.” The tip of his index finger traced circles over her skin.

This was her opportunity to discover the truth. “You won’t mate me.”

His eyes darkened and he shook his head, but then qualified, “Not this time. I make no promises for the future.”

That was good enough for her. When she sat up, he withdrew his hand, giving her space.

Keeping eye contact, she drew her T-shirt over her head. His pupils dilated and his nostrils flared.

Instead of feeling ill at ease, a glorious sense of freedom filled her.

Getting into the whole striptease, she unhooked her bra and slipped the straps down her arms.

The sound he made was part longing, part pain.

“You are stunning.” Her breasts were average, but the way he was licking his lips made her a believer.

Before she got cold feet, she shucked her socks and jeans, leaving her underwear. Call her a coward, but she wasn’t willing to take that final step. When she lay back, he moved over her, bracing his weight on his forearms.

“Amy.” That was all he said before he captured her lips.

The heat was familiar now and welcome. Twining her arms around his neck, she returned the kiss, stroking his tongue, welcoming the weight of his lower body against hers. The fabric of his jeans was a rough caress against her bare thighs. The hard length of his erection pressed against her core.

She raised her legs, wrapping them around his flanks.

With a growl, he nipped at her throat. He didn’t break the skin, but her heart jumped, pulse racing.

“Relax. I promised you no mating.”

Trusting him more than she’d ever trusted any other man, she gave herself over to the pleasure.

He wasn’t the only one who wanted to touch. She’d been fantasizing about him for weeks.

His shoulders were huge, his chest heavily muscled, but he was not overly bulky. He had the build of a wolf, not a male who frequented a gym. Her fingers didn’t come anywhere near to wrapping around his biceps. His pectoral muscles were hard and well-defined, his abs like corrugated steel covered in velvet.

She practically purred as she explored.

Etienne groaned, caught her hands in one of his, and raised them over her head. “You keep that up and I’m going to come.” The graphic admission made her feel powerful and womanly. His eyes narrowed. “Like that, do you?”

“Very much.” Since he would see and smell the changes in her body, there was no point in lying. And she didn’t want to. She wanted only honesty between them.

His lips twitched. “Maybe I’ll give you a turn another day, but this time is mine.” He kissed a path down her neck and across her collarbone. Her nipples were painfully hard. She tried to arch up to rub them against his chest, but he lifted away. When she frowned, his smile widened. “You’ll like my way better,” he promised.

He rubbed his head against her chest, his silky hair caressing her skin, his cheek stroking the curves of her breasts. The devil was marking her with his scent. Not that she cared. No, she wanted more. Grabbing his hair, she dragged him to one of her breasts.

His laugh made her core clench. Then she jumped when he latched onto her straining nipple and sucked hard.

“Yes!” she hissed. Her toes curled and she thumped her feet lightly against the mattress. His talented tongue flicked the tip, shooting rockets of desire through her.

After feasting on one side, he moved to the other. Her hips arched. She needed more. Her skin was on fire and sensitive to the slightest touch.

“Etienne.” He froze and his big body shuddered.

“Do you want me to stop?”

“What? No. Don’t you dare.” She might get violent if he did. The tension inside her was boiling to a fevered pitch. All she needed was something to push her over the edge.

His hand skated down her stomach, his fingers dipping beneath the elastic waistband of her panties. He didn’t stop but kept going, until he was cupping her sex.

She bit her lip to keep from screaming. Her head thrashed from side to side. Her lungs ached.

Her heart was about to burst.

“Look at me.” Unable to resist his command, she met his eyes. He wasn’t smiling now. No, his lips were compressed. His expression was one of pure determination. He pushed one thick finger inside her. She was so wet, she took him easily. Her inner muscles contracted around him.

“Fuck me.” He added a second, stretching her. His thumb flicked over her swollen clit.

Her orgasm exploded. She squeezed her eyes shut, her head tilting back, every muscle in her body clenched. Her core rippled, her eyes shooting open when he curved his fingers and eased them out, stimulating the sensitive spot inside her. Another wave of pleasure took her under. She momentarily lost a sense of all reality.

When she slumped against the bed, she was boneless, floating on a sea of satisfaction.

Etienne smiled, brought his fingers to his mouth, and sucked. “Delicious.” He tasted her, unabashedly enjoying that he’d brought her pleasure.

She shivered and swallowed back a moan. “Thank you.”

He licked his lips. “It was definitely my pleasure.” He rolled off the bed and tossed a corner of the sheet over her. “I have to get a shower. I won’t be long.”

His departure was abrupt, but she understood. He was keeping his word. That meant everything to her, even if it wasn’t fair to him. His arousal had to be painful, but not once by word or deed had he suggested she give him more.

Which, consequently, made her want to give more.

It wouldn’t do for her to forget she was dealing with a tactical genius. But he was also a man, a very loving and giving one.

The closed bathroom door was between them. The shower came on.

Should she join him? She was shaking her head before she’d finished the thought. No, she’d accept the gift he’d given her. That didn’t mean she couldn’t return it at another time.

Rolling to her side and clutching the pillow to her chest, she smiled.

Chapter Seven

Etienne braced his hands against the yellowing and cracked tiles and let the cold water pummel him. What he really needed was a plunge in a river in the middle of January. But since it was May, this was as close as he could get.

He lifted one hand to his nose and sniffed. His cock jerked at the scent of Amy’s juices. Her taste lingered on his lips. With a ragged groan, he gripped his shaft and pumped. The cold water and his rough hand were nothing compared to her hot, silky depths, but it was all he had.

No, he had more. This time as he jerked off, he didn’t need to imagine what she’d feel like, smell like, taste like. This time, he knew. Vivid images flashed through his brain—Amy with her head thrown back, her breasts with their tight red nipples pushing upward, her pussy clamping down on his fingers, the long, low cry of her pleasure.

“Fuck.” His orgasm slammed into him. Balls drawing up tight, spurts of semen erupted from the tip of his cock, coating his hand. It seemed to go on forever, yet was over too soon and offered little relief.

He was determined to court Amy, to woo her as she deserved. If it didn’t kill him first.

With that in mind, he grabbed the soap and made quick work of cleaning himself. He didn’t linger, not wanting to leave her alone. The Landry brothers were still out there somewhere. It wouldn’t pay to get lax.

When he’d dried off, he wrapped the towel around his waist rather than pull on dirty clothes.

He bent down to look in the mirror and rubbed his jaw. He needed a shave and his toothbrush.

Should have brought my bag in last night.

Amy was still on the bed when he left the bathroom, but she was propped up against the fake wooden headboard, with the television on. Since she looked good enough to eat—and didn’t the thought of diving between her legs and feasting have him hard again—he went to the window and peeked around the curtain.

There was no one around. A good time to retrieve his gear.

“How about we grab some breakfast once you’ve showered.” They could go to that diner not far from here, or he could take her somewhere nicer. He’d check his phone and find some options.

When she didn’t answer, he glanced her way. Her eyes weren’t on the television. No, they were on his ass. His dick twitched and grew, tenting the front of the towel. Didn’t matter he’d come not ten minutes before. As a werewolf, he could go for hours.

“You gotta help me out here.” He wasn’t opposed to spending the day in bed. Hell, he’d rather do that, but that wasn’t the way to win her heart. He wasn’t looking for temporary or a quick fuck. He could get that anywhere. That wasn’t conceit on his part. Women were drawn to him and other male wolves, sensing their primal natures. This thing between him and Amy? It was special.

Her cheeks turned pink. She rolled off the bed, keeping the sheet wrapped around her. “I won’t be long.” The bathroom door shut after she scurried inside.

When the water came on, he tilted his head back and swallowed hard. It was easy to imagine the warm water sluicing down her long, lean body. Droplets would linger on the tips of her nipples before falling. He wanted to catch them with his tongue.

Swallowing back a groan, he turned away. He had his bag, as well as the one Cherise had sent for Amy, and was back inside the room in under thirty seconds.

He was dressed in jeans and a T-shirt and pacing when the water went off. He tortured himself by imagining her drying off. That led to him having to adjust the front of his jeans. Things

were back under control, barely, when the door opened and steam rolled into the room.

“Ah, I forgot to bring clean clothes with me.” The towels weren’t the best quality—nor were they very large, leaving a large expanse of her legs showing. The arm clutching the towel pushed her breasts up, showing more than a hint of cleavage.

“There’s a bag there.” He pointed to the bed. “Your momma sent along some clothes, figuring you could use them.”

Amy’s cheeks flushed. “Thanks.”

“I need to shave. You can have the room.” He grabbed his shaving kit and almost sprinted to the bathroom. There wasn’t much space, so they brushed up against each other as he passed. The scent of the cheap soap mingled with her richer, natural one.

She gave a tiny gasp but didn’t stop him. It was just as well. If he touched her, they’d end up in bed for the rest of the day.

Not the plan.

Chest heaving, he stared at his reflection in the mirror. Control was such a natural part of his personality, he’d never really thought about being any other way. Amy was playing havoc with him.

He’d never understood how the males in the pack lost their discipline when it came to their women.

He was an idiot.

The mating urge and that one special woman had the ability to destroy a man. She could also make him stronger, give him things he hadn’t realized he’d been missing.

If things didn’t work out with Amy, if she decided she didn’t want him, he’d have to leave the pack. No way could he stay and see her every day, eventually watch her mate another.

It would kill him.

As he shaved, making sure, even strokes with the razor, his resolve hardened. He’d never been a quitter. And he’d never wanted anything more than to belong to her, to be able to stand by her side for however long they lived.

His job was to show her how good things could be between them.

After lingering long enough that he was certain she’d had adequate time to dress, he joined her. She was wearing jeans and a blue tank top that hugged the curves of her breasts. Looking up from where she was tucking the bedspread on the bed, she smiled.

“All ready?”

“Yeah.” He tossed his shaving kit into his bag and zipped it. When she bent over to smooth out some wrinkles, the faded jeans molded to her firm ass. They had to get out of here before he snapped.

“How about breakfast?”

“Sounds good.” She tucked her phone in her back pocket and her keys in her front one. “I’m ready.”

“Don’t you need a sweater or something?” He was being an ass but was unable to stop the train that was his mouth. “It could be cold in the restaurant.” Or other men might notice how damn good you look in that outfit.

She tilted her head to one side. “You do remember I’m a wolf, right? I can regulate my body temperature.”

“You’ll stand out.” That was irrefutable. And if it was chilly, her nipples might stand out.

Then he’d be forced to put his hands over them to warm them. His fingers fisted by his sides.

“Okay.” She said the word slowly, drawing out the vowels. “If it means that much to you.”

Deciding keeping his mouth shut was his smartest move, he grabbed his bag and headed for

the door.

“You can leave that here.” She motioned to his bag. “I assume you’ll be coming back with me.”

“I didn’t want to make assumptions. I can sleep in the truck if you want your space.” She’d run because she’d needed time alone. While there was no way he’d leave her, he would try to give her whatever she needed.

She tugged on a thin sweater a shade darker than her top. Instead of buttoning it, she left it open. It framed her breasts instead of covering them. Did she realize she was torturing him? Her guileless expression said no.

“We can figure things out as we go.”

Good enough. He dropped the bag and held the door open.

She bit her bottom lip as she exited. “I’m not trying to be difficult.”

“I never thought you were.” He fiddled with the lock until it actually clicked into place. A swift kick or a hard shoulder would open the door, but it was better than nothing. Their things should be safe enough in the daytime with people coming and going. With one arm around her waist, he guided her to his ride.

“You’re not mad?”

He backed her against the side of the truck, placing his hands on either side of her. “Why would I be mad? You have every right to want time to figure out your path in life, where you want to live.” He paused before adding, “Who you want to be with.”

She swallowed hard, the delicate line of her throat rippling. “After what happened, you have every right to expect more.”

He shook his head, stopping that train of thought before it even left the station. “The only rights I have are the ones you give me. We were both raised in the same pack.” A smile curved his lips. “If I suggested otherwise, my mother, or yours, or any of the women would quickly school me otherwise. Assuming my father didn’t kick my ass first.”

Her giggle was lighthearted and lifted his spirits. “You’re right. I’m sorry. I’m not being fair to you.” She waved her hand in front of her as if wiping something away. “Clean slate. Let’s start the day from here. Where are we going?” Her stomach chose that moment to growl.

Etienne laughed and dropped a quick kiss on her sweet lips. He respected the hell out of her, would never pressure her or expect anything she wasn’t willing to give, but that didn’t mean he wouldn’t use every skill he had, every bit of knowledge he possessed about her, to try to seduce her.

“First I feed you.” He held her door and scanned the area as she climbed in. There was no sign of Luc or his brother. Maybe they’d given up and left.

And maybe the sun would rise at midnight.

His wolf growled, on high alert. He was protecting precious cargo. Maybe not the best term, and one she would object to, but the one thing that was true was that he would protect her with his life.

****

“She didn’t?” Amy sipped her second cup of coffee, happy and sated after a feast of pancakes, eggs, bacon, and hash browns. “Emma was working in the wood shop?” The members of the pack made money in various ways. Her daddy and some of the others made custom furniture that commanded a high price in exclusive shops across the country. What had started out as a small venture had expanded since what they produced was limited and the highest quality, all from wood ethically sourced from pack land.

“Why not? You did.” Etienne was on his second order of pancakes and bacon after deciding the double breakfast he’d had the first time around wasn’t enough. He had to be starving. Werewolves had huge appetites, burned a lot of calories on any given day, but this was excessive. He likely hadn’t eaten in almost a day.

Because he’d been looking for and then protecting her.

“Yes, but I started working with my daddy when I was a kid. Emma has always preferred to be with her mother. No one sews better or makes more beautiful quilts. And her cakes and cookies are like something out of a magazine. She could open her own bakery.”

He finished chewing his last mouthful and pushed his plate away. Sitting back, he patted his stomach. His flat, hard stomach. “You were a girly girl and a tomboy.” His smile was pure sin. “Still are.” He reached across the table and stroked his hand down the row of beaded bracelets and then flicked the dangling earring in her ear, making the colored stones dance.

“But she’s never been the rough-and-tumble type.” There was something delicate and feminine about the younger girl. Not that she was prissy. She was a wolf, through and through. Shifted, she was a ghost in the woods, almost as good as Amy’s daddy and Etienne when it came to stealth.

He shrugged. “She’s at the age where she wants to stretch her wings and try new things.”

When he gave her a look, she got the point. She’d taken off to stretch her own wings. “She’s always helped in the garden.”

“True.” God, was she guilty of pigeonholing the girl? The irony was thick. She’d always felt motherly toward Emma. It gave her an inkling of how her parents and the rest of the pack must see her actions. “Are they all mad at me?”

“Non.” He cupped her cheek and stroked his thumb over her bottom lip, making it tingle.

“They worry. They want what is best for you. They want you safe.”

She nodded and gripped her mug. While it was wonderful to catch up on news from home, it hurt to realize how much she’d missed, how cut off and alone she’d been. Life had gone on for all of them.

She swallowed back a protest when he released her and downed the last of his coffee. “If you’re done, we’ll leave.”

The diner was bright and cheery, but the sunny day called to her. She’d been inside way too much these past weeks. With Etienne beside her, she didn’t have to be on her guard as much, could let go and be her true self without worrying about doing something to give herself away.

She’d been in a cage, one of her own making, since she’d left. “I’m ready. I’ll meet you outside.” She pointed to the bathroom. Hurrying, she finished and bolted outside. Etienne was leaning against the front of his truck, ankles crossed, eyes closed, basking in a sunbeam.

His father was the same. No one enjoyed sunshine more than Gator Rollins—except maybe his son.

She wasn’t the only one noticing the way the washed denim cupped the bulge in the front of his jeans or the way the arms of the T-shirt strained against his biceps. No, a small group of twenty-something women getting out of a sedan were staring—and not trying to hide the fact.

Something hot and deadly stirred inside her.

“Oh, God, will you look at him,” one said.

“I want one,” said another.

“Can you imagine waking up to that every morning?”

“I’d never get out of bed.”

The women were whispering, but with her keen hearing they might as well have been

screaming it. Which meant he could hear it, too.

Who did they think they were? Staring at her man.

His expression didn’t change. If anything, the corners of his mouth tightened. Then his head snapped up and he smiled. It was one guaranteed to cream any woman’s panties. It was slow and lazy and intimate. And it was all for her. “Ready, chère?”

She sauntered toward him, making sure the women had a front-row seat as she ran her finger up the front of his chest. “Oh, I’m more than ready.” Her wolf chuffed, satisfied they’d laid their claim.

What did I just do?

The reality of it slammed into her. Jealous of those unknown women, she’d reacted out of instinct. They hadn’t even done anything, only made a few comments they thought wouldn’t be overheard. She’d blown the entire situation out of proportion.

“Did you hear that accent? Isn’t that the sexiest thing you’ve ever heard?” one of the women asked. Her friends murmured in agreement as they entered the diner.

While Etienne had been born in North Carolina, he’d picked up the accent from his father and the other original members of their pack who had come from Louisiana. It slipped out from time to time. And the woman wasn’t wrong. It was sexy as hell.

He pushed away from the truck, caught her hand in his, and raised it to his lips. A delicious shiver skated down her spine. Her nipples pebbled. He leaned forward, his breath hot on her neck.

“Might as well give them a show since they’re watching from the window.”

Scowling, Amy turned and glared. Sure enough, the four women were practically plastered against the glass. None of them were the least bit repentant. One of them shrugged. Another lifted a glass of water in salute. Two more fanned themselves.

The absurdity of it had her throwing back her head and laughing. “Someone has to protect you.” Shaking her head, she started around to the passenger side. “Or maybe I’m protecting them. You are lethal to the female population.”

He waited until she was settled, closed the door, and leaned against her open window. “While I appreciate you looking out for me, chère, the only woman I see is you.”

Levity fled, leaving something hotter and deadly serious. She tugged her sweater over her chest to cover her nipples, which had gone on attention the second she’d seen him leaning against his truck like some pagan offering to the gods.

It wasn’t his reaction that bothered her. It was her own. She’d been ready to take those women on, had hated the way they’d responded to him.

I’m not ready to mate him, but I don’t want any other woman to have him.

What did that say about her? It didn’t paint her in a good light. What if the women had been female wolves? He’d have been within his right to take any of them up on their blatant offers. They weren’t mated.

Her wolf growled and pushed to the surface. She grabbed the edge of the seat. Claws ripped through the tips of her fingers and dug into the leather.

I can’t shift. Not here. Too public.

She needed to get out of here now.

He didn’t ask what was wrong. He was too perceptive to miss the telltale signs. The engine roared to life, and then they were moving.

Don’t shift. Don’t shift. She repeated the two words over and over until they ran together. The pounding in her heart blocked out all other sound. Her breathing was ragged. It had been far too long.

Her wolf was chomping to get out. This was no one’s fault but her own.

“Hang on, sweetheart. We’re almost there.”

She had no idea where they were going. It didn’t matter. Etienne would get her where she needed to be.

Her clothes were too confining, her skin hot and itchy.

Unable to bear it any longer, she dragged her sweater off. Her tank top and bra followed. A sane, still functional piece of her brain warned it wasn’t smart to be stripping in broad daylight while driving down a public road.

The truck veered onto a dirt track, bumping along.

The shift took her, her wolf lunging for freedom. Her body contorted, head flattening and jaw elongating. Fur pushed out from beneath her skin. She stretched, settling into her new form and shaking off the remainder of her clothes.

Freedom.

The vehicle rocked to a stop. Etienne shut off the engine and opened his door. “Run.”

Chapter Eight

Etienne yanked off his clothes as Amy bolted. Shit, she was fast, streaking by him in a flash of blonde and brown fur. It was risky to leave the truck and their belongings unattended, but he couldn’t afford the time to hide their clothes and lock up the truck. She was already out of sight.

He began to run, shifting on the fly. One step his feet hit the ground. The next his paws landed lightly. Damn, it was good to shift, to embrace this side of himself. Lengthening his stride, he lifted his head and sniffed the air, his ears twitching to pick up any sound.

There!

He veered to the left, closing the gap. It was pointless to rein her in so he paced himself, letting her run herself into exhaustion. They jumped over downed trees, zigzagged around others, their paws treading softly on the land.

The female wolf leaped with joy, tail high, head raised. She’d challenge any male. If one was ever fortunate enough to catch and mate her, he’d have a partner for life, one that would stand beside him, come what may.

He wanted that male to be him.

Her jealousy gave him hope. And holy hell, it had been hot to see her green eyes fire up when she’d overheard those other women. Wasn’t the first time he’d overheard such conversations. He ignored them. Those women only thought they could handle the likes of him. They could have stripped naked and paraded in front of him and it wouldn’t have mattered.

Because none of them were Amy.

When she’d prowled toward him and run her finger down his chest, it had been all he could do to keep from tossing her over his shoulder and finding somewhere to claim her once and for all.

He’d thought to lighten the mood, teasing her into laughter. Whatever had happened, whatever had changed, something had pushed her to the breaking point. His only concern had been getting them out of there and somewhere safe where she could let go.

There’d been nothing amusing or arousing about her stripping in the truck. It had been too frantic, too desperate. A woman on the edge.

With one eye on her and another on their surroundings, he crowded her, subtly adjusting her position. She snapped, sharp teeth flashing. He growled back and nipped at her flanks. She yipped and lengthened her stride.

The afternoon waned, the sun going from overhead to lowering in the west. They’d been at this for hours. The local wildlife had hidden at first, but had eventually ceased seeing them as a threat and accepted their presence. Squirrels chattered from the trees. Birds swooped and sang. A fox hunkered down beside a rock as they raced by.

Amy finally slowed, coming to a halt beneath an oak tree. She turned in a circle, as though trying to get her bearings. She’d been running wild with no attention to her surroundings. Something they’d all been taught never to do. That she’d forgotten her training was a testament to how far gone she’d been.

When he shifted back to human, she lowered her head and sighed. “How long has it been?”

She shrugged and whined, staying in her wolf form. Probably a good thing. He was worked up after running for so long. Having her naked? Yeah, not a great idea. The mating urge beat at him. His fangs dropped and his cock swelled.

He turned away, but not before she noticed. “We need to get back.” Embracing his wolf, he led the way. There was no stream or river nearby, so they’d been without water all afternoon. They’d

worked off the feast they’d eaten for breakfast. He’d have to feed her again. Not how he’d imagined the day going. He’d hoped for something more romantic and relaxed, but this was what she’d needed.

She let him set the pace this time, staying slightly behind and on his left. He kept glancing back to make sure she was keeping up. Not that he needed to. If anything, his awareness of her was keener than it had ever been.

Her feet weren’t landing as lightly. Her breathing was harder and heavier.

She’s tired.

He frowned, not liking that. A run like this shouldn’t have taken this much out of her. Not if she’d been taking care of herself.

His ears swiveled, picking up an unexpected sound. He stepped in front of her, blocking her path. She stumbled, hitting him in the side. Once she’d straightened herself up, she tilted her head to one side and listened. A low growl rumbled up from inside her.

Etienne shifted back to human form. “There are two men hanging around the truck. I need to deal with them.” And hopefully keep them from stealing his truck. “Stay put. Do not move from here.”

Not giving her time to agree or object, he stepped out from between the trees. “Can I help you gentlemen with anything?”

The bigger one stood about six feet tall and wore the usual uniform of men around here—

jeans, a T-shirt with a flannel over it, and boots. He was broad through the shoulders and had shaggy brown hair pulled back in a tail. There was an unlit match between his teeth. “Maybe I should be asking you that question.” He flipped open Etienne’s wallet. “Mr. Rollins. Not from around here, are you?”

“No, I’m not.”

“See, my buddy and me were walking along, enjoying the afternoon. Imagine our surprise when we came across an abandoned truck with clothes everywhere. It’s like one of those true crime shows on the television. Ain’t it, Jack?”

His buddy, who was about the same build but a couple of inches shorter with reddish hair, grinned. “It surely is, Mike.”

“It’s enough to make a man call the police.”

“But you didn’t.” These didn’t seem like the type of men who’d want authorities of any kind in their business.

“Where’s the woman?” Mike held up Amy’s bra, twirling it on his index finger.

“She’s fine.”

“See, I only have your word for that.”

His hackles went up. He didn’t think Mike was asking out of the goodness of his heart. “How about you fellas move along, and we’ll all forget we ever saw one another.” That was the best case scenario, but not a likely one. These men were opportunists, cold and calculating. It was in their eyes.

They thought they had him at a disadvantage because he was naked and unarmed. Mike had a knife strapped to his waist, and Jack had a rifle looped over his shoulder. It looked to be an older weapon, not an automatic one, but it was still formidable.

Mike laughed, smacking his hand against his thigh. “That’s a good one. Ain’t that a good one, Jack?”

“It surely is.”

Mike was the alpha of this group. Jack would follow his lead.

“See, this here is a nice truck. You got some cash and some credit cards. Too bad you hadn’t stayed away a bit longer. We’d have been gone. But you’ve seen us now.” Mike shook his head. “Pity

that.” His gaze hardened and he rolled the match between his teeth. “I wonder how long it will take your woman to come out of hiding once we start hurting you? Or maybe she won’t care,” he taunted.

Etienne didn’t rise to the bait. His heartbeat was slow and steady. Not so his opponents. They were worked up, adrenaline pumping through their veins at the thought of a fight, an easy score, and getting their hands on Amy. Jack was already sporting a hard-on. Mind working, he cataloged their positions and possible scenarios.

“Well?” Mike asked, frowning.

“Well, what?”

“You calling your woman?”

“Not a chance in hell.”

Mike took the match out of his mouth and tucked it in his shirt pocket. “Tough guy, huh? That’s okay.” He rubbed his hands together. “I like tough guys.”

Jack flipped his rifle over so it was aimed at Etienne.

“Tougher than you.” Etienne spat on the ground. “You need your buddy to protect you.”

“I don’t need nobody. Let’s just call that insurance.”

Etienne took a step to his right, as though moving away from Mike, when in fact it brought him closer to Jack. He needed to take down the shooter first and then disable the other one. He silently counted down in his head.

Now!

He lunged at Jack, grabbed the rifle barrel, and yanked. Not expecting the action, he gave up the weapon easier than Etienne had expected. Wielding it like a club, he swung at Mike, clipping him as he jumped back.

“Shit, son. You’re fast.” Mike pulled his knife and twirled it.

“A rifle trumps a knife.” He backed away, holding the weapon steady.

“Not loaded.”

Etienne pulled the trigger and swore when it clicked. He smashed it against a nearby tree with enough force to snap the wooden stock from the barrel.

“Hey,” Jack objected. “That belonged to my granddaddy.”

“Then he should have taught you not to point it at someone unless you were willing to accept the consequences.”

Thinking Etienne’s attention was on his buddy, Mike lunged, coming in hard and low. The blade flashed. Etienne grabbed his wrist and twisted. Sweat popped out on Mike’s brow as he fought.

He increased the pressure, tempted to break the fragile bones. It would be easy to kill both men, but that would only bring down trouble. There was no way of knowing if these two had called anyone else. His priority was to disarm them and get Amy away from here. Broken bones would lead to a hospital visit and might get the cops involved.

“Drop the knife.”

“Not happening. Get him, Jack.”

His buddy came at him from behind, grabbing up a dead tree branch and swinging. A streak of fur and fury bolted past him, slamming into Jack and taking him to the ground. Teeth bared, Amy growled.

“Fuck.” Etienne slammed his fist into Mike’s face, knocking him back onto his ass. While the man was dazed, he grabbed the knife.

With no time to spare, he patted Mike down, finding a cell phone and a wallet in his pockets.

He liberated both the man’s license and his phone. “Hey, you can’t take that.”

“See, that’s where you’re wrong, Mike Taylor. You have my address, and now I have yours.”

Leaning down, he let go of the leash on his control. He didn’t shift. He didn’t need to. “You come anywhere near me or mine and you’ll disappear into a shallow grave. Do you understand?”

“Hey, man. No need to get worked up. We were just having some fun. Call off your dog before he bites Jack.”

“It’s all fun and games,” he muttered as he drew back his fist and slammed it into the idiot. He pulled it so he didn’t break anything, but hit hard enough to knock him out.

“I’ll handle him from here,” he told Amy. She backed off and sat, keeping her eyes glued on Jack. “Give me your wallet and phone.”

Jack couldn’t hand it over fast enough. “That’s no dog. That’s a wolf.”

“Wolf breed.” Not really a lie. “I’m taking your license, Mr. Jack Turner. Same warning applies to you.”

“It costs money to replace those. And you already broke my rifle.”

Were these two for real? They thought they should have rights when they’d been ready to kill him and take his truck. Not to mention their interest in Amy. “Should have thought of that before you tried to jump me, take my truck, and harm my girl.” Bloodlust rose up in him, but he forced it back.

Their problems were big enough without adding to them.

“We wouldn’t really have hurt no one.”

Etienne wasn’t buying it. Amy growled. Nope, she wasn’t buying it either. He punched Jack, not bothering to catch him as he toppled over. He dragged on his clothes and grabbed the rest of their belongings, making sure he didn’t miss any of Amy’s jewelry. When he was certain he had everything, he went back for Jack’s rifle and wiped both pieces down so none of his fingerprints remained.

Amy had dressed and slipped into the passenger seat.

When they were back on the road, heading toward her place, he finally broke his silence.

“What the hell were you thinking? I thought I told you to stay put.”

****

She almost flinched. His voice was low and lethal. Her wolf whined, but she snapped her shoulders back. “I was thinking you needed help.”

She’d seen Etienne in many moods over the years, but none of them came close to this. He’d disarmed two men and knocked them out—all without breaking a sweat. Then calmly gathered all their belongings and removed any trace of their presence.

Some would call him cold, but they’d be wrong. Dead wrong. Intensity bled from his pores, his very presence still, the calm before the storm. Or more aptly, the eye of the hurricane.

“I told you to stay hidden. Do you understand what might have happened if one of them had caught you?”

She got that he was angry, but enough already. “I’m not six years old. I’m an adult. As a wolf, I could have easily handled them. I did handle one of them,” she reminded him.

Seeing the second man go for Etienne’s back, she’d reacted instinctively. The urge to protect had been too powerful to ignore. “If you don’t like that, I’m sorry. You’ll just have to suck it up.”

There was nothing calm about the glance he sent her. His eyes were seething with fury. A muscle in his jaw flexed. His hands tightened around the steering wheel. “If either one of them had touched you, harmed you in any way, I’d have killed them.”

She blinked, not certain she’d heard him correctly. “That seems a bit extreme.”

“No, it doesn’t. The only reason they’re still alive is because we don’t need the cops looking for us. We have enough trouble as it is with the Landry brothers still out there. Now, these two idiots

know where we live. Not exactly, but the box number in Salvation. If they care to come looking, they could end up being an even bigger headache.”

He didn’t raise his voice. Didn’t have to. Each word cut her like a knife. Amy slumped in her seat. He was right. All this was on her. If she’d stayed home, none of this would have happened.

“Everything was fine until you showed up,” she muttered. She bit her bottom lip, regretting the childish outburst. “That was uncalled for.” She thumped her head against the backrest.

“We’ll handle it.”

Her heart leaped and then settled. “You don’t mean we as in me and you, do you? You mean the men of the pack.” So much for him seeing her as an equal.

He frowned and slowed the truck as they entered the town limits. “I mean, we’ll handle it as a pack, a family.”

Not what she’d hoped for, but not as bad as she’d feared. “Do you really think those men will cause trouble?” The adrenaline had worn off, leaving her shaky and slightly sick to her stomach.

Etienne could have been shot or stabbed. Yes, his superior genetics would have made it almost impossible for them to kill him, but there was such a thing as a fluke shot. No one recovered from a bullet directly to the brain or heart.

Sure, the rifle had been empty. But he hadn’t known that until he’d taken the weapon and smashed it. Her father and the other men of the pack had faced armed adversaries before, but they were nothing more than stories she’d overheard while growing up. She’d been sheltered from violence, which considering she’d grown up in a wolf pack was strange.

Didn’t make it any less true.

Her father, alpha, and honorary uncles protected the women. Now the next generation of males was stepping up to do the same thing. Not happening. If there was any fighting to be done, they’d do it together.

He turned into the local burger joint, getting in the drive-thru lineup. “They’d be stupid to cause trouble, but if they’d had any sense they would have made pleasant conversation and walked away when I showed up. They won’t go to the cops. It’s their word against ours. Well, my word. They think you’re a dog.”

Smirking, he stopped in front of the menu, ordering for both of them when a voice came over the speaker. She practically bit her tongue off as they drove forward to pay and collect their order.

The smell of fresh burgers, fries, and onion rings had her stomach growling. Breakfast had been hours ago. He handed her the bags and the tray with the drinks. Balancing everything on her lap, she took a deep breath. Then another. She would be calm, cool, and adult. Even if it killed her.

“I’m not a dog.” That was a huge insult to any werewolf.

He shrugged. “I wasn’t about to tell him what you really were. Seemed easier to let them think you were a dog.”

She might have believed him if his lips hadn’t twitched. “You think it’s funny, don’t you?”

“You were fierce attacking him, taking him down.” The quiet pride in his voice surprised her.

“I’m pissed because I lost focus. That could have gotten us both killed if either of them had been hiding another weapon.”

She hadn’t even considered that. “You’ll have to give me a pass this time. I’m new at this.”

Sure, she could defend herself, had been given lessons since she’d been able to walk. Reality differed from practice. The latter was fun and empowering. The former involved real weapons and blood.

They pulled into the motel parking lot. “Wait here while I check things out.”

It wasn’t bad enough they’d had humans try to jump them and steal their ride. There were two

deadlier males out there that may or may not be adversaries. When Etienne appeared in the entryway, she popped the door open. Before she could climb out, he was there, taking the bags from her.

“You should have waited for me.”

“I can get out of a truck by myself.” While she might not be skilled in actual fighting, she wasn’t exactly fragile.

“I know.” His sigh ruffled her hair when he leaned down and kissed her forehead. “I like doing it.”

“Oh.” That was totally different.

The table only had one chair, so he pulled it alongside the bed. “Where do you want to sit?”

“Bed.” Kicking off her shoes, she crossed her legs and dug into the first bag. There were eight loaded burgers, four large fries, two orders of onion rings, and two giant drinks. Not the healthiest meal, but there was nothing quite like it.

She unwrapped her burger and took a big bite. “God, this is the best. Don’t tell your father I said that.” Gator took pride in his cooking and was damn good at it.

Etienne finished chewing and swallowed. “Do I look like an idiot?”

Laughter bubbled up. “I refuse to answer that.”

Smiling, he shook his head and kept on eating. The food helped her stomach settle. “I had a good time this afternoon. You know, before your truck was almost jacked and you were attacked.”

“Glad you clarified.” He handed her an order of onion rings.

“Thanks. I love these.”

“I know.”

And he did. Unlike normal couples who began dating, they’d been living in each other’s pockets their entire lives. He hadn’t needed to ask what she’d wanted at the drive-thru. With the limited selection on the menu, he’d known her preference.

“How long had it been since you shifted?” The chair almost seemed too small for him. At first glance, Etienne didn’t look like a big man because he was lean and moved with such grace. It was only when you got alongside him you realized his shoulders were wide enough to fill a doorway. He was honed to a lethal edge, physically and mentally tough.

She rubbed a droplet of condensation off her drink before sipping through the straw. “I didn’t feel safe.” For all her brave words, she’d been too afraid to shift on her own.

Her stomach in knots, she pushed away her burger. “I shifted once in the first place I stayed.”

She’d been so homesick she’d thought it would help. It had only made things worse, emphasized what she’d left behind. “The walls started to close in around me.”

Talk about an understatement. The panic attack had been totally unexpected. She’d clawed at her throat, certain she was dying. Tears streaming down her face, she’d eventually calmed down enough to breathe. Yeah, she’d never shifted inside after that. It wasn’t the same as being at home, able to trot outside if she felt like it.

He pushed out of the chair and shoved the table back far enough so he could sit down beside her. The tips of his fingers caressed her face. She closed her eyes and drank in his concern.

“I’m sorry.”

Shrugging, she opened her eyes. “Not your fault. I’m the one who left.”

“I’m the one who drove you away.”

Chapter Nine

I’m the one who drove you away.

His heart pounded the wall of his chest. The truth was out there. It was up to her what she wanted to do with it. Outwardly, he was steady as a rock, but his mind wouldn’t stop replaying this afternoon.

She was right about one thing. It had been a great afternoon until the potential truck jacking.

Running through the woods, exploring and enjoying it together, had solidified what he’d already known—Amy was the woman for him.

They’d run together all their lives, usually with others, but occasionally the two of them alone.

This time was different. There was a new awareness between them. As a male wolf, he could have easily overpowered and mated her. She’d trusted that he wouldn’t.

Proud and strong, she’d fearlessly plunged into the unknown by his side, ready to tackle whatever came their way. Not even those humans could taint such a beautiful memory.

“You seriously believe that?”

There was a tiny smudge of dirt on her forehead he hadn’t noticed until now. Her top was wrinkled and stained. His gaze narrowed. “Are you wearing your bra?” The idea of it touching her skin after being handled by Mike made him wish he’d broken the other man’s fingers.

“What? What are you talking about?” She crossed her arms over her chest, as if to hide it.

“Are. You. Wearing. Your. Bra?” It was bad enough he could smell the humans on their clothing from where the men had searched their belongings.

“No.” She tugged the lacy fabric out of her back pocket and threw it at him. “I couldn’t stand to put it on after seeing that man handle it. Satisfied?”

Etienne tossed it over his shoulder and into the small garbage can by the dresser. “Now I am.”

“I like that bra,” she muttered, her eyes tracking toward the can.

“Don’t even think it. I’ll buy you another one. Hell, I’ll buy you a dozen.” The idea of having her wear lingerie he’d purchased had his cock hard as steel. She preferred lacy and color to plain and white.

“You’re not buying me underwear.” Her words said one thing, but her pupils were dilated.

The idea turned her on.

“You can’t stop me.” He could already picture her in a pale pink set of panties and bra.

Maybe a darker pink. And green. Definitely green. His balls clenched in agreement.

“I won’t wear them. This conversation is ridiculous. Let’s get back to the point. You didn’t drive me to do anything.”

“Don’t lie to me.” He could deal with anything but that.

Her eyes clouded with concern. “I’m not lying.”

He read her expression, studied the tiniest changes on her face and body chemistry. She believed that. “Would you have left if I hadn’t kissed you?”

She dragged her fingers through her hair. “Yes. No. I don’t know.” She huffed in frustration.

“You weren’t the only reason.” Rather than look at him, she plucked at a thread on the hem of her jeans. “My daddy is overprotective. He means well, but he wants to fix everything. For too many years I not only let him, I expected him to.”

“He wants to protect you.” He understood Cole Blanchard’s motivation. Amy was like a woodland fairy, pale and delicate. Forget that she was five eight and a powerful female wolf. There was something about her that was almost otherworldly, a radiance that brightened even the darkest

night.

Some of that glow had been dimmed.

“I’m ashamed.” Those two words slammed into him with the force of a sledgehammer.

“Amy—”

“No. It’s the truth. How can I figure out who I am if I’m never allowed to falter or fail? Oh, this is coming out all wrong. I sound like a spoiled brat, complaining because her life was too good. I had the best childhood. I love my parents so much. But I don’t know who I am beyond my role of daughter.”

Misery bled from each word. Unable to bear her unhappiness, he pulled her into his arms.

“You’re so much stronger than you know.” Understanding how she viewed herself was a startling revelation.

“I’m not making any sense.”

“You’re making perfect sense.” His chest expanded when she sighed and rested her head against his shoulder. “I see you in a far different way than you see yourself.”

“Really?” Her skepticism made him smile.

“Really. You bring light and love to everyone in the pack. You walk into a room and people smile. You’re the first one to jump in when anyone has a problem.”

“That’s nothing special. We all help one another. It’s what we do.”

She really didn’t get it. “It’s more than that.” How to make her understand. “Gwen is the alpha female of the pack.”

Amy tilted her head back and frowned. “Your point?”

“So impatient.” He kissed her forehead and urged her to rest against him. His entire body was on fire, need burning to the core of his being, but this was more important than sexual release. “You bring the fun and laughter to our lives.”

“Great, I’m the court jester.”

“Stop it.” He shook her slightly. “Don’t underestimate the power of kindness and laughter. My life is so much better with you in it.” He swallowed heavily. “I’d be lost in the darkness without you.”

She cupped his cheek, her hand soft against his face. “You’re not as dark as you think you are.

Brooding, without a doubt, but you have the biggest heart of anyone I know.”

He shook his head. “You’re the only one who sees me that way. Even my father worries about me.” Etienne had been born serious. That trait had only grown over the years. “I have a need to control my surroundings, to protect all those I love and care about. I worry incessantly about keeping everyone safe.”

“I had no idea. That kind of pressure isn’t good for you. It’s not all on you.”

He turned his head, kissing the center of her palm. “We’re very similar in that way. You want to keep everyone happy to the point you lost yourself. We’re quite a pair, aren’t we?”

A gurgle of laughter escaped her. “Don’t take this the wrong way, but it’s nice to not be the only one who is messed up.”

He fell back on the bed and rolled until their heads were on the pillows. She gave a small squeal but didn’t object, quickly adjusting to the new position. “Amy, you’re the least messed up of all of us.” He paused. “Maybe Emma, but she’s young yet.”

“What are you talking about? Nicholas and Aaron seem happy.” She turned on her side to face him and tucked one hand under the pillow. The free one settled on his chest.

“You’d think so, but Nicholas is an alpha like his father, and Jacque will be leader until the

day he dies. Nicholas is beginning to chafe under the restraints. And Aaron is like his Uncle Louis.

He’s quieter and, in many ways, deadlier.”

“You’ve really thought about this?”

He’d thought of little else these past weeks. “Yes. We’re all getting older and chomping at the bit to find our own way.” He trailed his fingers over the curve of her jaw. “You’re not alone, Amy.

You’re never alone.”

“Now I feel stupid. Not because of what you said,” she added, “but because I didn’t see it. I thought I was the only one feeling like a misfit.”

“Being a small pack has many benefits. We’re close, more like a family than pack. There’s no jockeying for position, no backbiting and scheming, only support and cooperation.” It had been a secure and loving environment to grow up in. “It can also be stifling. Every couple was like having another set of parents. There are only six of us younger ones. It doesn’t give us much opportunity to explore and discover. Other packs sometimes get together on neutral land to give the younger ones a chance to meet new people, forge friendships and alliances, and maybe find mates. We don’t have that.”

She rolled her lips into a thin line as she listened and nodded. He wanted to kiss those lush lips. His cock was throbbing like a toothache. He’d need to get in a cold shower and seek release soon. This was not the time to press her about their physical relationship.

He was in this for the long haul, which meant sometimes backing away. He understood her better now. Having her open up in this way brought a deep satisfaction.

“I never really thought about it that way. Keeping away from other packs is simply the way it is, but you’re right. We’ve missed out on a lot of social aspects that our parents enjoy. They all grew up somewhere else, had those experiences. Now they have each other.” She flopped onto her back and sighed. “Our parents have a bigger social life than we do. They meet as equals. We’ll always be kids to them.”

“I think they’re beginning to understand there’s a problem.” He propped himself up on his elbow. “Your leaving highlighted that. I’ve overheard Jacque and my father talking. They didn’t know I was close enough to hear.”

“You skulk better than any of us. You were always our lookout when we were sneaking around as kids.”

He chuckled. “It’s a gift.”

“What did they say?”

“They’re blaming themselves, of course, for not realizing it was an issue. Like you said, they view us as kids. I think they all had to grow up too fast and didn’t want that for us so they overcompensated.”

“When did you get so wise?”

He tweaked her nose. “I’ve always been wise. You never noticed.”

****

Her heart did a back flip when he playfully tapped her nose. Her entire body warmed, especially the more intimate parts. Sharing her fears with someone else was a relief. Seeing the problem from another perspective was a revelation.

She’d honestly had no idea her friends had all been having similar thoughts. It made her feel not so alone. It didn’t solve her dilemma, but it gave her hope that she’d figure things out.

“You really see me as an important part of the pack?” She winced. Sound needy much?

“Forget it. It’s not important.”

His lips turned down into a frown. So much for bringing the light and laughter. “You have no idea how important you are to all of us.” He captured her hand and brought it to his lips. “To me.”

Her breath caught in her throat when he nipped at the tip of one of her fingers before taking it inside his mouth. Her worries slipped away as a primal heat spread outward to her core.

“Etienne.” His eyes shone in the dimness of the room. They hadn’t bothered with turning on lamps earlier. The sun had finally gone down, leaving only the ambient light from outside to sneak in around the edges of the closed curtains.

“Hmm.” He was totally absorbed in what he was doing. His dark hair fell over his brow.

Her nipples stood at attention, rubbing against the fabric of her tank top, reminding her she wasn’t wearing a bra. What had she been going to say? It didn’t matter. Nothing did but him continuing to suck and tease her finger, gliding it in and out of his mouth, mimicking sex.

Her jeans were too confining, her skin too tight. She groaned, her breaths coming in short, hard bursts.

With a curse, he released her. “I promised myself I wouldn’t do that?”

Why was he stopping? Her entire being protested. “Do what?”

“Pressure you. It’s been a crazy day.” He rolled to his back, his arms crossed over his face.

“Give me a second.”

She wasn’t the only one having a hard time catching her breath. His chest expanded as he sucked in air. His biceps bulged as he struggled for control. The muscles of his stomach contracted when she stroked her hand over them. His lower body jerked, bringing her attention to the rather substantial bulge in his jeans.

He truly was special. As aroused as he was, he was trying to protect her, to do what was right. Was she going to allow it? Not a chance. He had to see her as an equal, a partner. Not as someone who always needed protecting.

She flicked open the button of his jeans.

“What are you doing?” He lowered his arms, his eyes blazing with pure, molten need.

“What does it look like?” The sound of the zipper lowering seemed unusually loud. He wasn’t wearing underwear, and his cock practically jumped into her hand. She closed her fingers around his shaft. It was hard and hot, pulsing with life.

“Fuck!” His hips arched. “You have to stop, chère.”

Not on your life. “You pleasured me last night. Seems only fair I return the favor.”

“I didn’t do it because I expected anything in return.” His words were clipped, almost angry.

His cheeks were flushed, the angles of his face sharper than usual.

“It’s my turn to explore. Unless you don’t want me to.” No way in hell was that the case, but he needed to admit it to them both.

A growl rumbled up from deep inside him, vibrating through him and into her hand. A whimper escaped her as her nipples hardened to the point of pain. “I want you. Never doubt that.”

“Then let me do this.” She pumped her hand up and down his hard length. “Let me touch you.”

Leaning down, she dragged her tongue over the tip of his shaft, capturing the droplet of liquid that seeped out. It was salty and warm. “Taste you.” She nuzzled the crinkly hair at the base of his shaft. “I want to see you come.”

“You’re killing me.”

She’d take that as encouragement. “You’d feel better if you were naked.” Before she could ask him to lift up, he surged upright, dragged his shirt off, and flung it aside. He had his jeans off in record time.

Sprawling back on the bed, eyes ablaze, his skin slick from the heat generated between them, he tucked his hands behind his head.

It was tempting to follow suit. Her clothing was constricting. It wasn’t fear holding her back.

He wouldn’t mate her without her permission. But he would take over, seeing to her pleasure without worrying about finding release for himself.

Not this time.

“Like what you see?”

Oh, the devil was cocky. He was sexy and damn well could smell her attraction. No hiding it with their heightened senses. Two could play that game. “Maybe.” Kneeling beside him, she walked her fingers over his thighs. They were thick with muscle. She bypassed his erection and smoothed a path up the prominent v-shape on his abdomen.

His growl was low and continuous, but he did nothing to stop her. It was heady to have this much masculine power and beauty at her disposal. And he was beautiful. He’d object to the word, but it fit. There wasn’t an ounce of extra fat anywhere. Heavy bone, sinew, and muscle had been sculpted and honed to perfection.

His nipples were flat discs with a light smattering of black hair between them. She flicked one with her tongue. His back arched. His biceps strained. His nipples were as sensitive as hers. Good to know. Not everyone found the same thing stimulating. She wanted to learn all his secrets.

“I’m not going to last.” The rough promise made her sex clench. “Like that idea, don’t you, chère? I can smell it.”

“I do.” She nibbled at his neck, loving the way he tilted his head to one side to give her access. He tasted salty, the musk of his skin an aphrodisiac that surrounded her. This was a two-way street. His desire pushed hers higher. Hers pushed his higher. And round and round it went.

She’d seen him shirtless. Heck, she’d seen him naked. She’d watched him shift a time or two.

She was as red-blooded and curious as the next wolf, and he was a prime specimen.

Funny, she’d never had the urge to watch either Nicholas or Aaron. She wrinkled her nose.

They were too much like brothers.

Why was Etienne different?

Maybe their attraction was based on more than mere proximity and opportunity.

“Do you want to stop?” His question snapped her out of her reverie. She’d been still for too long.

In answer, she kissed a path down the center of his chest to where his cock waited. It flexed in impatience, as if to complain about her neglect. Taking him in hand, she began to pump.

“Harder. Hold me tighter.” The cords of his neck were taut. A muscle worked in his jaw.

Following instructions, she squeezed. His shaft seemed bigger, hotter than it had. Prominent veins roped his length all the way to the flared head. When she reached the top, she ran her thumb over the tip.

Scooting down to get into a better position, she cupped his sac with her free hand, gently caressing it.

“Fuck!” It turned into a low howl at the end, raising the fine hairs on her body.

His balls tightened. A heightened tension gripped him. Lowering her head, she took him into her mouth and sucked.

On a roar, he came. His release shot up his shaft. She gagged once and then swallowed, wanting to give him the same pleasure he’d given her. The base of his shaft swelled in her hand. If they’d gone all the way, he’d be locked inside her. She moaned, her core protesting the emptiness.

Releasing him, she rested her head on his stomach until her breathing returned to normal. Long fingers stroked her hair. “You okay?”

She could only nod, afraid to actually speak. Tears pricked her eyes.

“That was incredible. Thank you.”

She nodded but felt hollow inside. Her wolf paced, upset. She was the one who’d told him she wasn’t ready to commit. So why did she want a declaration of some kind, something to prove what they had was more than two healthy adults having a satisfying sexual experience? Did that mean she loved him?

“Amy?”

She rolled off the bed and headed to the bathroom. “My turn to have a cold shower.” It was time to be honest with herself, to search her soul and decide once and for all if she was willing to mate with Etienne.

Neither of them could go on like this.

****

Luc Landry gave up just after nine o’clock. Amy wasn’t coming to work tonight. Had the other wolf taken her? His wolf howled in protest.

Both his siblings were worried about him. Colton had stayed with their sister, but only after extracting a promise that Luc wasn’t going to do something stupid.

All he wanted was a chance to talk to her alone, to make sure she was safe. And maybe see if she might be open to mating. His wolf was attracted to hers, and there weren’t too many unattached females running around.

That made her a prize worth fighting for.

Chapter Ten

Etienne glanced over at the passenger seat before turning his attention back to the road. Amy had been quiet since the previous evening. After her shower, they’d finished off their cold burgers and fries and watched a movie before falling asleep.

At least she hadn’t kicked him out of bed.

But she’d been lost in her own thoughts. When a couple of attempts to draw her out had failed, he’d let her be. Neither of them had slept well. His arms had ached to hold her, but he’d given her the distance she’d seemed to need.

They were out of here today. He couldn’t wait to watch this place disappear in his rearview mirror. There was too much danger lurking, coming at them from different directions, impossible to control or contain.

“I’m sorry you have to leave your job.” Was that part of what was bothering her? Her independence had been hard fought for and won.

“I get it.” Her soft voice soothed the rough edges of his nerves.

Was it worry for her or was there something else in the air? He couldn’t tell. Either way it concerned him.

“I know it’s not safe.” Her fingers tapped out a rhythm on her leg. “Especially not after yesterday. I’d already decided it was time to move on.” Her nose wrinkled. “Not like I loved where I was living.”

Maybe not, but it had been hers. He’d seen her wistful expression as she’d packed her belongings and checked out of her room for good. It wasn’t the place she’d miss but what it represented. She’d only picked at her food when they’d stopped for a late breakfast.

She looked as beautiful as ever this morning, if pensive. The top she wore matched her eyes and clung to her torso, outlining the bra. What color was her bra? Was it the same green as her top or something different?

When his cock flexed, he silently castigated himself. He didn’t want her thinking he was only interested in sex.

Did she regret last night? Yesterday had been one huge up and down after another. Shifting after so long would have left her longing for pack, for connection. He’d been selfish, wanting her touch, and hadn’t put up more than a token protest.

“Any idea where you want to go next?” He didn’t care as long as he was with her.

Her ponytail danced when she shook her head. “Not really. I’d planned to check out the bus schedule and see where it went. Any ideas?”

So not home. “We could go south, head to Alabama or Georgia.” It would also keep them closer to home than if they went west.

“You don’t have to go with me. You have responsibilities and obligations waiting for you.”

Not in this lifetime. Reaching over, he covered her hand with his. “I’m not going anywhere. If you want to be alone, I’ll back off, but, chère, I’m not leaving you. If you don’t want me with you, think of me as a bodyguard.”

Her brows snapped down and her eyes flashed. “I don’t need a keeper.”

That was debatable, but being a smart wolf, he kept that thought to himself. “You’re a woman alone. Two unknown male wolves know about you. Not to mention the two idiots from yesterday.”

She slumped back in the seat. “You really think they’ll be a problem, even if we leave?”

He shrugged. “Maybe, maybe not. But there are always more like them out there.” It would be

foolish to underestimate the lure of a female wolf to two unattached males. The mating drive was strong among their kind. Two minutes with Amy and they’d realize how special she was. They’d want her for their own.

They couldn’t have her.

“You okay?” She turned her hand in his and gave it a squeeze.

Shit, he’d been growling. “I’m good. I’ll be better when this is done and we’re on our way.”

There was no sign of anyone following them, but the damn itch wouldn’t leave the back of his neck.

He eased the truck into the almost empty lot. Milton’s wasn’t open yet. Wouldn’t be for another hour. The lone car likely belonged to someone working there. Or maybe it had been left overnight.

“Looks like Gracie is here.”

So it was the bartender’s vehicle. “What about the cook?”

“Tom? He lives in a trailer out back. He’ll already be prepping for the lunch crowd. It’s too early for the other waitress.”

“Remember what we discussed over breakfast.”

She gave a huff and rolled her eyes as she unbuckled her seat belt. “You’ll be right outside.

What can go wrong?”

Famous last words. He killed the engine and turned to face her. “I should go in with you.” He didn’t want her out of his sight.

“I need to do this on my own. I owe it to Gracie. I can’t tell her everything, but she deserves an explanation. She took a chance on me. Now I’m leaving her high and dry.”

And Amy’s heart was too tender to intentionally hurt someone. “Make it quick.”

She jumped out of the truck and snapped him a salute. “Yes, sir.”

“Smartass,” he muttered.

Her laughter trailed after her as she knocked on the door of the bar. Etienne didn’t quite relax, but some of the tension eased. It was the first time she’d acted more like herself since yesterday.

Gracie let Amy inside and gave him a hard stare before locking the door with a decisive click. Restless, he got out, leaned against the hood of the truck, and listened. Everything was still. The clouds thickened, blocking out the blue sky. A heaviness lingered in the charged air. They’d likely have a thunderstorm before the day was done. He hoped to be several hours away before it hit.

Two robins flew from the tree where they’d been perched. He straightened and sniffed, wishing there was even a hint of a breeze to carry nearby scents. He glanced toward the bar. He was tempted to grab her and run.

Yeah, that would fly about as well as a lead balloon. All it would do was piss her off, maybe make her reconsider their going away together. Damn her stubbornness, but she wouldn’t be the woman he loved without it.

She was safe inside. He’d take a fast look but stay close. This could be a trap to lure him away. If anyone was out there, it was the Landry brothers. If this was a trick, he’d make them very sorry.

****

“I’m really sorry, Gracie.”

“You’re sure it’s what you want? You’re not being coerced or anything, are you? You can tell me.” She drew a lethal-looking handgun out from beneath the bar. “I brought a little extra insurance today just in case.”

“Put that away before you shoot someone.” She’d handled firearms, of course, but they

weren’t part of her daily life. As a wolf, she’d cultivated her unique talents, learning how to track and move silently through the woods, how to sniff out danger and avoid it. And how to fight in case there was no other choice.

Gracie gave a throaty chuckle, but the gun vanished from sight. “Honey, I’m a crack shot. My first husband, bless his useless soul, left something of value behind when he took off. He taught me how to handle a weapon. We spent a lot of time at the range or hunting.” The woman had been married twice, and she’d told Amy more than once that she was done with the institution.

“It’s not like that. Etienne is…” She shifted from one foot to another, her temperature rising just thinking about him.

“If I’ve learned one thing, it’s never to rearrange your life for a man. It never works out well.”

“You’ve got it all wrong. He’s left everything behind to be with me.” For a wolf as protective as him, as entrenched in pack as him, it was a huge sacrifice.

“Humph, maybe I won’t shoot his ass after all.”

Amy gave a nervous laugh—not at all sure Gracie wasn’t kidding—and bit her lip before it turned into tears. “I’m the messed up one. I’m the one who ran away from home. Who does that at twenty four?” She rubbed the heels of her palms over her eyes. “Real mature move.”

“Honey, give yourself a break.” Gracie came around the bar and pulled Amy into her arms.

“We all want to run away sometimes. Had you ever left home before?”

She allowed herself to drink in the warmth and caring, needing it more than she’d known.

“No, I’d always lived at home.”

“There you go. It’s a wonder it hadn’t happened earlier. Your parents good to you?”

“The best.” And she missed them terribly.

“Then they’ll understand.” She pulled back and became brisk again. “So pull on your big girl panties and figure it out. Decide if you want that man who looks at you like you’re a juicy steak and he’s starving or if you need to dump him and move on.”

Amy held her stomach as she laughed. “Oh, my God. Now that’s an image.”

“You think on it while I get your paycheck.”

“I’m really sorry I didn’t give you any notice.” Gracie was being far nicer about this than most people would be. It made Amy feel twice as bad than if she’d been yelled at.

“Don’t worry about it. Tammy dropped by yesterday. She’s the one who ran off to be with a man. Turned out he wasn’t the catch she thought he was. He left her high and dry and now she’s back.

She’ll be thrilled to get her old job back.” She disappeared down the short hallway to the office.

It was almost too easy. All the pieces were falling into place. Maybe the universe was trying to tell her something.

There was a low rap on the front door. A woman in her early twenties with curly reddish brown hair glanced frantically around. A chill ran down Amy’s spine. Ignoring it, she hurried to the door.

“We’re not open yet.” Maybe this was Tammy checking back in about a possible job.

The woman swallowed heavily. “I’m sorry.”

“That’s okay. Do you need help?” She held the door open, but the woman shook her head.

She glanced over her shoulder, but Gracie was still in the other room. “If you’re looking for Gracie, she’ll be back in a second.” Tom was busy in the kitchen. Etienne wasn’t in his truck. Her heart in her throat, she stepped outside and glanced around. There was no sign of him anywhere. He’d never have left her alone. Not after all his warnings.

The woman had backed off but was close enough for Amy to catch her scent. “You’re a wolf.”

No way was this the human waitress.

She nodded. “You must be Amy.”

“What do you want?” She had to be working with the Landrys. Now that she was looking for it, she could see the resemblance in the hair and eye color.

“Nothing bad. My name is Fleur Landry. I want to make sure you’re okay. My brothers are worried about you.”

On the surface it was plausible, could even be viewed as a kind gesture. Amy’s tension ratcheted up a notch. “Where is Etienne?”

“That big wolf? My brothers lured him away so I could talk to you.” Amy bolted toward the woods with Fleur in pursuit. “There’s no need to worry. They won’t hurt him.”

That was the least of her concerns. “Maybe not, but there’s no telling what he might do if he thinks I’m in danger.”

Fleur grabbed her arm and yanked her around. “Does he want to mate with you?”

“That’s irrelevant.”

“I’ll take that for a yes. No one can force you.”

“Trust me. That is not going to happen.”

“Then why are you on the run? A female wolf only runs for one reason.”

God save her from do-gooders. It was really kind of the Landrys to put themselves out like this, to put themselves in possible danger to do the right thing. Except in this case the reasoning was all wrong.

“This is Luc’s doing, isn’t it?” She hated to cast the woman’s brother in a bad light, but if the shoe fit… “He’s attracted to me. I think he’s hoping I’ll mate with him.” And that wasn’t happening.

Fleur shook her head, pity in her eyes. “He warned you might say something like that because you were too afraid to say otherwise.”

Out of patience and time, Amy stalked toward the woods.

“I’m sorry.”

Something sharp jammed into her shoulder. Amy jerked around. “What did you do?” The world swayed back and forth. No, wait, that was her. Her legs turned to jelly and she stumbled. Fleur wrapped an arm around her waist and began to drag her toward a nearby truck. “Wha—” Her tongue was thick. Her mouth dry. Whatever the other woman had pumped into her veins had to be potent. Her body would have shrugged off a regular human sedative.

“Don’t fight it. You’ll be fine once you’ve slept it off.” Propping her against the vehicle, she yanked open the door.

Drawing the last of her strength, Amy threw back her head and howled. It wasn’t much of one.

She prayed it would be enough.

Etienne would never forgive himself if something happened to her.

And she’d never forgive herself if something happened to him.

“Stop that,” Fleur scolded as though she were a naughty pup. As Amy was hoisted into the back seat, the world went black.

****

Amy!

The howl was faint, but his wolf homed in on it. Pivoting mid-run, he raced back toward the bar, hurdling downed trees, swerving around thick tree trunks. What the hell had happened? He’d been playing cat and mouse with both brothers. Hadn’t been overly worried about Amy since they were with him.

He’d been played. There had to be more of them.

Lungs pumping, legs lengthening, he ran like his life depended on it, because it did. If something happened to Amy…

A truck was tearing out of the lot when he cleared the woods. He took off after it. He’d be faster in his wolf form, but he didn’t dare take the time to shift. Since he had no idea where they might end up, clothes might be necessary. About a hundred yards ahead, the truck slowed long enough for two men to jump in the back.

I’m going to kill them.

Emotion vanished. A cool, calculated calm settled over him. Veering off the road, he kept to the woods, hoping they’d think he’d given up.

As if that would ever happen.

The dense air didn’t wick the sweat from his face and arms. It trickled down his back. Etienne blinked when it stung his eyes, but he kept going. His lungs protested the breakneck pace, but he ignored the pain and ran full out mile after mile.

He lost sight of them, but he didn’t stop. They had to be somewhere close. He should call home for reinforcements, but it would be too late by the time they got here. Not to mention he’d left the damn phone in his truck.

A light flashed in the sky. Twenty seconds later, a low rumble followed. A light patter of rain began to fall.

That would mess with any scents.

Pushing himself harder, he paused at a dirt road. Had they turned off or kept going? He crouched down and squinted at the dirt. Were the tracks fresh? Did he stay on the main road or take a chance?

Hands fisted by his sides, he threw his head back and roared at the heavens. The worry he’d managed to contain threatened to choke him. He sucked air into his starving lungs.

The sky opened up, and torrential rains soaked him within seconds. It was dangerous to be standing out in the open, but he couldn’t bring himself to care.

Eyes narrowing, he loped down the trail. He’d find her. There was no other choice. No matter how long it took.

If Luc forced her to mate…

His wolf growled, low and hard. Amy would fight, but in the end, she was a single female against two males, maybe more. He hadn’t been able to see who’d been driving the truck.

He slammed the door on that thought and padlocked it—otherwise, he’d go mad. He’d never killed a man, but there was a first time for everything. Whatever it took to protect her and keep her safe.

Lightning lit up the sky. A heavy boom shook the ground seconds later. The storm was closing in on them.

Trudging through the muck, he scanned side-to-side, watching for any sign of a vehicle or dwelling. His stomach was a hard knot. The muscles in his legs screamed for mercy. Even for a wolf, he’d driven himself beyond the breaking point.

Should he go on or head back? If they’d continued on down the main road, Amy was miles away and he had no starting point.

Despair dropped him to his knees. Head bowed, he swallowed heavily. He’d lost her.

No! He’d found her once. He’d find her again. Pushing to his feet, he turned in a circle, squinting through the darkened woods. It was early afternoon, but the dark clouds made it more like

dusk.

He went completely still, closed his eyes, and reached out with all his senses, allowing his wolf to guide him. Prickles ran down his arms. The back of his neck tingled. His eyes snapped open, and he turned to his left.

Had he heard something?

A wolf with a scent, he prowled forward to investigate.

Chapter Eleven

Amy’s head throbbed. What the hell? She didn’t get headaches. Wolves were disgustingly healthy. Had she hit it?

Danger!

Her wolf stirred. Instinct warned her to stay still and silent. She was lying on a bed or cot of some kind with a thin, scratchy blanket over her. The musty scent wasn’t encouraging. She fought the urge to wrinkle her nose.

The cobwebs in her brain cleared. A surge of anger roared through her.

They’d abducted her.

The last thing she remembered was something sharp poking into her skin. She’d been drugged by a woman—Fleur Landry. Amy was sweating, her body working hard to push out the last of whatever they’d pumped into her.

Keeping her breathing slow and steady, she listened intently, trying to gauge her surroundings.

A boom of thunder rattled the room. Rain pattered against the tin roof. The storm was overhead, and it was a nasty one. It also made it more difficult for her to discern any other noises.

Focus!

Damned if she’d let anyone pluck her off the street like a stray dog. She had a pack, people who loved her.

Had Gracie seen what happened? She’d likely called the local sheriff—exactly what they didn’t need. It was the unwritten rule that every wolf lived by: Never attract human interest. That would only lead to bloodshed and death.

They’d look at Etienne’s abandoned truck and find his registration. That would lead the authorities back to her pack. Etienne would be furious—at her for getting abducted, but mostly at himself for letting it happen. Not that it was his fault, but after a lifetime study of alpha males, she knew how he’d think. She had to believe he was alive and already looking for her. The alternative was too hard to bear.

God, what a mess. She wanted to slap Luc Landry senseless. He’d acted without thought, putting all of them in jeopardy.

Her mouth was bone dry, and her stomach chose that moment to growl. She hadn’t eaten much of anything today. It was time to move and take stock of the situation. She’d always been a talker. If she could convince them to let her go, maybe they could put the brakes on an already bad situation before it got worse.

When she went to raise her hand, it pulled up short. What the hell? Opening her eyes, she glared at the thick metal cuff that encircled her wrist. A rather impressive chain ran from it to a heavy-looking circle that had been bolted to the wall.

“You’ve got to be fucking kidding me,” she muttered under her breath. Enough was enough.

Sitting up, she swung her feet over the edge of the cot. Her sneakers were gone. She snorted. Like that would stop her.

Grabbing the length of chain, she pulled. Her muscles strained. The chain held, but the wood had squeaked. She didn’t care how she got loose as long as she did. Gritting her teeth, she braced her legs and yanked. Was there some movement or was that wishful thinking?

“You’re awake.” Luc stood in the open doorway, his black hair damp and slicked away from his face. His gray eyes narrowed on her hands. “Don’t hurt yourself.”

Was he for real? Ignoring him, she jerked on the chain.

“Damn it, Amy.” He strode toward her, his jaw set.

She crouched and stayed low on the balls of her feet. There wasn’t much maneuverability with the chain, but she’d work with it. “Stay away from me.”

He stopped in his tracks, his mouth falling open. “I would never hurt you.”

“You already have. What do you call this?” She rattled the chain. “And using your sister to help abduct me? That’s really classy.”

His cheeks turned red. Was he blushing? Nah, likely he was furious. Too bad.

“It’s for your own good,” he muttered. Hands on his hips, legs spread, he glowered at her. If he was trying to intimidate her, it wasn’t working. She’d cut her teeth on alpha males.

“Right. That’s how you justify kidnapping me.” Maybe it wasn’t smart to antagonize him, but she needed answers.

He raked his fingers through his hair, throwing droplets of water around. “It was to protect you.”

“The only person I need protecting from is you, and your family,” she added. “Etienne is pack.

I’ve known him all my life.” Swallowing hard, she asked the question plaguing her. “He’s alive, right?”

“We’re not murderers,” Luc muttered.

“Right, only kidnappers.” Relief made her lightheaded. “Trust me when I tell you that you don’t want him as an enemy. Let me go. Take me back, and we can forget this ever happened.”

She’d have to do some fast talking with Etienne, but she’d worry about that later. One problem at a time.

“I brought you some food.” Fleur stood in the doorway, her movements hesitant. “I thought you might be hungry. I’m really sorry for earlier.” She glanced at her brother and frowned.

Interesting. Had he coerced his sister into helping him? A wave of sympathy rose up inside her, but she squashed it. It didn’t change the facts.

“I don’t know what Luc told you, but you’re all in a heap of trouble. Etienne will find me. If he doesn’t, he’ll call in my pack. They’ll come down on you like demons from hell.” Not really an exaggeration.

Fleur paled and leaned against the doorframe. Luc tensed, his expression becoming more determined.

“I can take care of myself and my family.”

Maybe against humans. “You don’t want to face the wrath of my daddy.” While she might be able to talk Etienne out of revenge, there would be no way to calm Cole Blanchard. Oh, he’d never hurt Fleur, but Luc would be lucky to be alive when it was all over. And that was if he released her now.

Luc shrugged. “A man’s got to make a stand for what’s right.”

He really believed what he was saying. The chain was heavy, so she let it fall to the floor with a clatter. “And you think kidnapping an unwilling woman is right?”

He flinched slightly but nodded. “You didn’t want to go with that other wolf, but you did. He can’t force you to be with him, to mate with him.” Luc went to his sister and took the tray from her shaky hands. He leaned down and kissed her temple. “No one can force mate a female.”

Everything clicked into place. “Is that why you three are on your own? Did someone want to mate you, Fleur?” It would be best if she could make a connection to the other woman, who seemed to be a reluctant pawn in her brother’s scheme.

She lowered her head and nodded. Fury flashed in Luc’s eyes. “No one will touch you. Not

unless it’s what you want,” he promised.

“But we’ve lost everything—” Fleur glanced Amy’s way and stopped talking.

“We’ve been through this before.” The weariness in his voice suggested this was an old argument. “We’re family.”

Well, crap, she was going to have to help them. First, she had to get them to release her.

“That’s not what was happening with me.” Luc shot her a look of disbelief. “You’re looking at my situation through the lens of your own. I left my pack to assert my independence. They tracked me down, and Etienne came to talk to me. The last thing he’d ever do is hurt me.”

“I saw the way he looked at you.” Luc set the tray on the end of the bed. “He wants you.”

“Yes, he does. That’s not a secret. He’s upfront about what he wants. I also know he’d walk away if I asked him to.” Etienne’s honor was bone deep.

“I think you want to believe that, but I’ve seen how it works. I’ve seen it happen.” If his jaw got any tighter, a bone would snap. “Our mother was forced to mate.”

“I’m sorry. I can’t imagine what that’s like. You have to understand, my daddy would kill anyone who mated me without my consent.” Maybe if they understood her background, it would convince them. “He killed three wolves that were after my momma before they mated. She’s a full-blooded wolf, but she can’t shift.” Amy rubbed her hand over her face, tired after the sedative and adrenaline crash. “She had a childhood illness.”

Both siblings were watching her intently. “A wolf who can’t shift. That’s an abomination.”

Luc’s words hardened her heart. “My momma is the kindest and best woman in the world. I’ll rip out your heart if you say otherwise.”

“No, you misunderstand. Where I come from, they’d have killed her. Where is your pack?”

Hands fisted at his sides, intensity rolled off him in waves. There was something she was missing.

“Why?”

Colton burst into the room, a gust of warm air flowing after him. “We’ve got trouble.”

****

Etienne prowled around the old cabin. The paint was long gone, the boards weathered to a gray over the years, but the roof was sound enough. Better still, a truck sat around the back.

It was tempting to rush in, but he had to play this smart. He needed to know where Amy was, if she was indeed in there, and how many opponents he was facing.

His usual calm was fraying at the edges, but he shored it up. For Amy. She needed him. He would not let her down again. She should never have been taken in the first place.

He removed his boots and socks and yanked off his shirt, letting the wet material fall to the ground. Then he began to circle the building. Amy was in there. He could sense her presence, almost catch her scent on the air, even though she was inside. It might be nothing more than wishful thinking, but he didn’t think so.

Alert, he steadily worked his way around the cabin. Oh, the Landry brothers were here. Their smell was thick in the trees, likely where they’d shifted and rubbed up against them.

Silent as a wraith, keeping his back against the wall, he crept to a window. There was only time for a quick glance. He was dealing with wolves, not humans. The storm was actually working in his favor.

It was a living area with a single kerosene lantern in the middle of a rickety table. The sofa had been shoved against a far wall, and three sleeping bags were spread out in front of an empty fireplace. So there were three of them. Good to know.

There was no sign of Amy, so he ducked low and continued on. The rain lashed at him, the

lightning brightening his path every few steps.

The next window was smaller. Whatever appliances had once been there had been ripped out.

A portable propane stove was set up beneath the window.

Where the hell is everyone?

Placing his feet cautiously, he turned the corner and stopped cold. He’d found Amy.

A low growl worked its way up from the depths of his being. She was chained to a bed, with Luc Landry standing over her. Etienne sprinted about ten feet away, turned, and raced back toward the cabin. Arms up to shield his face, he burst through the window.

Shards of glass flew in every direction. A woman screamed.

He landed hard and rolled to his feet, a move he’d practiced many times during training.

Balancing on the balls of his feet, he glared at Luc. “You’re a dead man, Landry.”

“Shit.” Colton jumped in front of a woman. Who was she and where had she come from?

Ignoring them, he flew at Luc, landing a punch that snapped the man’s head back and sent him flying into the wall with a satisfying crash. Luc pushed away, shook his head, and leaped forward.

Snarling and wanting blood, Etienne met him in the center of the room. Luc was big, but Etienne was bigger. Better trained, too. Claws unleashed, he ducked under a punch and slashed at his opponent’s stomach, drawing blood.

Luc roared and shifted, shaking off his clothes. A large wolf with gray eyes faced him, fangs bared.

“Amy, get behind me.”

She shook her head. Was she in shock? Injured?

The only reason Luc was still alive was Etienne didn’t want her to see him kill someone.

“Amy, answer me.” He needed all his attention on the injured wolf.

Colton growled. “You’ll pay for that.”

“What did you expect? You took my woman.”

Luc took that moment of distraction to strike. Etienne’s father had trained him well. Wasn’t a sneakier fighter alive than Gator Rollins, and he’d taught his son every trick he knew. Expecting the attack, he went down on one knee, shoved his hands under Luc, and catapulted him out the broken window. The sill cracked, wood splintering.

A flash of lightning illuminated them all. Amy, Colton, and the woman were all staring at the window. Satisfaction roared through him as thunder rolled across the skies.

The black wolf jumped back in, the wounds already starting to close. Werewolves healed quickly. So far, all he’d really done was piss the guy off. He’d given him a chance to walk away. He was through playing nice guy. He stripped the rest of the way.

In a practiced move, Etienne leaped into the air, shifting on the fly—pure black fur and fury.

They slammed into one another. The force shook the room. Or maybe that was thunder. Luc’s claws raked his flanks. The pain barely registered. He jumped, using his powerful hind legs to drive the other wolf back. Luc landed hard. Before he could regroup, Etienne was on top of him, his powerful jaws around his neck.

Red haze blocked out his vision. This wolf had stolen Amy from him.

“Stop!” Warm arms wrapped around him from behind, her face buried against his fur. “Please don’t kill him.” Anyone else, he would have shaken off. But this was Amy. Her kind heart was going to be the death of him. “Please, Etienne. It’s not what you think.”

He gave the wolf one final shake, letting him understand how close he’d come to death, before releasing him. Etienne shifted. Blood stained his hands, and his jaw ached to close around his

opponent’s throat. His wolf was not happy about leaving the threat to Amy alive.

Colton and the other woman were both watching him, their mouths open. When he growled, they looked away and hurried over to Luc, who was lying on the floor, one arm over his face, lungs heaving.

He left Amy long enough to grab his jeans and drag them on. It was time to get her free.

Wrapping his hands around the chain, he got a good hold and yanked. Wood cracked and the bolts were ripped from the wall. The chain fell to the floor with a clank. “I’ll get rid of the cuff when we’re out of here.” He coiled up the length of it and handed it to her. Seeing it wrapped around her wrist fired his anger all over again. “We’re leaving.” Now, before he ended up having to fight both men at once. If that happened, one or both brothers would die.

“No one is going anywhere.” Coughing, Luc rolled to his feet. His earlier cockiness was missing, replaced by uncertainty. Good, he damn well should be worried. Etienne’s wolf wanted to skin him alive for what he’d done.

This was the second attack on Amy in less than a day. He was in a killing mood. Bad enough he’d spent weeks not knowing where she was, waiting and worrying.

“Get out of my way or I’ll put you down.” It was the one and only chance he’d give the other male. He looked at the unknown woman, who was visibly trembling. For a wolf, she was a timid creature. “Do you need help?” No way could he leave her here if she’d been taken.

Amy’s laughter cut through the tension. There was a hysterical edge that worried him. When he raised a questioning brow, she shook her head. “This is a comedy of errors.” When she swiped a tear that rolled down her face, he wanted to take her in his arms and assure her everything would be okay. Until the threat was nullified, he needed both hands free.

“Luc took me because he thought you were coercing me. Now you want to rescue their sister.”

Sister? He looked a little closer. Same hair and eye coloring. “At least I didn’t kidnap anyone.”

Luc faced him, his siblings flanking him, and growled.

“Will you stop it?” Hands on her hips, Amy scolded Luc. “This is your fault for not listening to me.” She bit her bottom lip. “Is that a guy thing? You think you know a woman’s mind better than she knows herself?”

Etienne bit the inside of his mouth to keep from grinning at the dumbfounded expression on Luc’s face. Amy’s tongue could snap like a whip when she got going.

“I don’t need or want your help. What’s between Etienne and me is personal. We’ve known each other since we were kids.”

“That doesn’t always matter.” It wasn’t the brothers, but Fleur who spoke, her voice soft. Both men wrapped their arms around her. Colton appeared sad, but Luc radiated nothing but fury.

Well, hell. Now he couldn’t kill them. Their love for their sister was plain to see. What a mess. Etienne shook his head, spraying droplets of water everywhere. “For the last time, no one is going to make Amy do anything she doesn’t want to. That’s not acceptable in our pack. Shouldn’t be acceptable in any pack.” That it was still a problem in this day and age bothered him.

Amy rested against his side, tilted back her head, and looked at him with those big green eyes.

He could practically hear her thoughts. “No way. We have enough problems of our own.” She patted his stomach, making his muscles clench and his cock stir, before turning back to the waiting family.

They were a unit—the three of them against the world.

He was going to regret this. “Who is after your sister?”

Chapter Twelve

Amy rotated her wrist. It didn’t hurt, but it was good to have the clunky weight gone. Being chained was not something she ever wanted to experience again. “Thanks.” Colton gave her a sheepish nod and hurried away with the offensive chains when Etienne growled.

Sitting on the floor beside her, their backs against the wall in the living room, he lifted her hand, examining the lightly bruised area.

“It’s already fading.” Etienne was outwardly calm, but his anger simmered beneath the surface. She tried to pull her hand away, but he held on and brought her wrist to his lips and kissed the injury.

He was serious and self-contained, a man in control of himself, a relentless adversary, the best possible friend. But watching him crash through the window like some avenging angel and take down Luc had been a revelation. He was not only dangerous, he was deadly. He would have killed the other man if she hadn’t stopped him, driven by primal instincts to protect. It was as much a part of him as his hair color.

Luc had no idea how lucky he was that Etienne had such control.

Was it wrong to admit she found his display of strength sexy as hell? She wasn’t human. None of them were. There were primitive instincts ruling them beneath the veneer of civilization they all wore. They were wolves at the heart of their beings.

Seeing Etienne away from the pack, watching how he handled difficult situations with cool-mindedness and calculation guided by the wildness of his wolf, was showing her a different side of him.

“I’m sorry.” None of this had been her fault. Yet she couldn’t help but feel like she owed him an apology. “How did you find me so fast?”

“Ran after the truck.”

Fleur’s jaw dropped. “I was driving fifty and went about ten miles.”

“I know.”

He was in prime condition, but that would push any wolf to his limits and beyond. “You could have killed yourself,” Amy whispered, horrified at what he’d put himself through. That kind of pace was unthinkable. She’d assumed he’d been able to get back to his truck.

He shrugged off her concern. “I couldn’t let them take you.”

Her heart swelled and tears pricked her eyes. Barefoot and bare-chested, his damp hair slicked back from his face, he was a prime male specimen. His abs rippled, and the holes in his jeans exposed tanned, muscled flesh. He had to be exhausted, and starving, but he gave away no weakness.

No, that wasn’t quite true. He’d hesitated only once—when she’d asked him not to kill Luc.

She was his weakness.

Etienne rested their clasped hands on his thigh. “I’m waiting.”

Luc swiped a cloth over his chest, wiping off the last of the blood. The wounds were already closed and looked days old rather than fresh. The storm had moved off, leaving a soft but steady patter of rain. It was dry where they sat, but there were two pans in the kitchen catching drips.

“That’s not a good idea. The less you know, the better for you. You don’t want to get involved.” Luc tossed the cloth away.

“We’re already involved,” she pointed out. “You made sure of it.”

Huffing out a breath, he sat on the floor beside his siblings. “I apologize for drugging you. I’m not sorry for interfering.”

She barely resisted the impulse to roll her eyes. “That’s a sorry-ass apology.”

The corners of his mouth twitched. “It’s the best I’ve got. My intent was to help.” He hesitated and added, “And maybe try to convince you there were better options out there for you.”

“Not helping,” she pointed out to Luc.

He shrugged, unrepentant. “A woman should have options.”

Etienne’s hand tightened around hers. He remained still, but his muscles coiled. “Luc Landry.

That sounds Cajun. Where you from?”

Now, that was an interesting question. It hadn’t occurred to her to ask. Please don’t say Louisiana.

“Louisiana.”

“Of course, you are.” She scrubbed her hands over her face. Things had just gotten even more complicated.

“Why does that matter?” Fleur asked. She looked from Luc to Colton and finally Amy. “We should part ways and move on to our destination. We have already made much trouble for you.”

Fleur’s show of spirit surprised Amy. It heartened her. Maybe the other woman wasn’t as timid as she seemed. “You don’t sound Cajun.” And she would know since her father and uncles occasionally fell back into the language of their youth.

“Fleur,” Luc cautioned, but she raised her hand to cut him off.

“No, we owe her answers after what we did. After what I allowed you to talk me into. I truly am sorry. I thought I was rescuing you.” Her gaze softened. “I have my brothers to protect me. You have no one.”

That wasn’t anywhere near the truth, but Fleur had no way of knowing. “You’re forgiven, but a word of advice. As a woman, you have to be the voice of reason.”

“That so, chère?” Etienne seemed more amused than put out.

“My momma says so. So does yours. You going to question them?”

He raised his hands in mock surrender. “Not me. My daddy raised me better than that.”

The teasing did the job she’d intended. The tension in the room lessened and Fleur smiled.

“You two really do have a long history together, don’t you?”

“Oh, yeah.” That was a discussion for another time. When she and Etienne were alone. “Back to Louisiana,” she prompted.

“We were born in Arkansas. Our grandfather was from Louisiana, but he left when he was young and ended up mating a woman in the Arkansas pack. Our father was born there. Our grandpa didn’t talk about his former pack, but our father was curious about his heritage. Named us accordingly.” Fleur’s smile was wistful. “Those were good times.”

Amy’s stomach knotted. “What changed?”

When Fleur shook her head and went silent, Luc picked up the story. Colton shifted closer to his sister and put his arm around her.

“Both our parents were killed. Our mother was in her wolf form, went farther afield than normal, and ran across a group of hunters. They took her down with a head shot and skinned her before we could get to her.”

“Fuck!” Etienne swore.

“I’m so sorry.” Tears trailed down Amy’s face. She couldn’t begin to imagine dealing with that kind of horror.

All three siblings were pale. Fleur was silently weeping.

“Your father?” Etienne asked.

“He went crazy and went after the hunters. His truck ran off the road. There was a freak explosion.”

Fire was the fastest way to get rid of a werewolf body. The same genetics that kept them young and gave them twice the lifespan of humans also accelerated their decomposition after death. A fire would turn one to ash within minutes.

“Our grandparents took us in. Not long after, the alpha from Louisiana contacted our pack.

Seems there was a new one in charge, a Jean Paul DuPointe. It intrigued my grandpa enough that he took us down for a visit. Over the years, we traveled back and forth some. Every pack is always looking for new mates.”

“That doesn’t explain why you’re on the run.” Etienne wrapped his arm around Amy and pulled her into the curve of his body, staking his claim. She supposed she should be grateful he was only rubbing against her and not pissing on her leg. The testosterone was thick enough to choke on.

“On one visit, one of the males started sniffing around Fleur.”

“Blaine Mouton,” Fleur whispered. “I did nothing to encourage his intentions.”

Amy nodded since it seemed important to the other woman.

“He wouldn’t take no for an answer.” Luc jumped to his feet and began to pace. “We stopped visiting. We hoped that would cool him off, give him time to direct his attention somewhere else, somewhere it was welcome.”

“It didn’t work?” Etienne absently rubbed his hand up and down Amy’s arm. She doubted he realized he was doing it.

“He came to Arkansas. Demanded we give her over for mating. Claimed she’d led him on and he was tired of her games.”

“It’s not true.”

Moved by Fleur’s distress, Amy scooted over to her and took her hand. “I believe you. But even if you had flirted, tested the waters a little, it didn’t give him the right to demand anything.” The very idea was enough to make her blood boil.

“What did this DuPointe have to say?” Etienne went straight to the heart of the matter.

Luc snarled. “He said it was between families. Until Blaine actually did something wrong, it wasn’t his problem. Said it was up to our alpha to deal with it.”

“Why didn’t he?” Etienne demanded.

“He’s over a hundred years old, but none will challenge for leadership of the pack. They have too much respect for him and will either wait for him to die or name a successor who would have to defend the position. But if Blaine challenges him, he has to fight. The bastard won’t fight me directly.

Believe me, I did everything I could to make that happen. To keep from tearing the pack apart, we left in the middle of the night and have kept on the move ever since.”

Amy could relate to how difficult that was, but at least they’d had one another. “Do you think he is tracking you? Wouldn’t he have given up by now?”

“He is obsessed.” Colton had been silent up until now. Amy had noted how he followed his brother’s lead and watched his back, but he was sharp and insightful. “I saw how he watched Fleur. It wasn’t love or lust but obsession. He is out there, and he is looking.”

“And you thought it was a good idea to draw Amy into the middle of that.” Etienne pushed to his feet, his frown dark enough to scare small children.

“Blaine isn’t interested in her,” Colton said.

“God save me from idiots,” Etienne muttered. “You think he wouldn’t use her to get you to hand over your sister? What would you do if it came down to Amy’s life or Fleur’s.” The angrier he

got, the lower his voice went. He rarely yelled. He didn’t have to. A wave of pure anger swept over the room.

“I have a plan,” Luc insisted.

The Landry brothers were around the same age as Etienne but seemed younger. From what she’d seen, they acted rashly without too much thought or planning. Kinda like she had when she’d taken off and left home.

“And what is your great plan?” The sarcasm was thick, but she didn’t blame Etienne. He was a planner and would have no patience with their on-the-fly approach to the problem.

“We heard stories when we were in Louisiana. There’s a pack that even DuPointe is wary of.

Everyone down there speaks of it in whispers. They say they’re different, welcome half-breeds and even humans. I’m not saying I believe that, but we hoped they’d agree to keep Fleur safe until Colton and I tracked down Blaine and dealt with him once and for all.”

Amy thought about banging her head against the wall, but that wouldn’t change anything. Talk about a tangled web. “The Salvation Pack.”

The three siblings stared in disbelief. “You know it?” Fleur asked.

Amy ran her fingers through her hair, longing for a brush to tame the tangled mess. And a shower, too. And some food. Anything but having to deal with this mess of a situation.

Etienne stood with his arms crossed, legs braced, a smirk on his face, waiting for her to drop the news on them.

Best to make it fast. “That’s our pack. My daddy is one of the founding members.”

“We are so fucked,” Luc muttered. Colton shook his head and stared up at the ceiling.

Fleur turned as white as a ghost. “What will we do now?”

****

Etienne wanted to take Amy and leave. This wasn’t their fight. The last thing his pack needed was to get involved in a dispute between the Louisiana Pack and one out of Arkansas. They’d left the past behind. Were enjoying the quiet and prosperous life they’d built.

“Where are your grandparents?” They’d taken in the family when their parents were killed.

He’d have expected them to step up.

“Our grandfather passed on a month before we left.” Sadness dripped from Fleur’s voice.

Amy might look delicate, but she had a core of steel. Fleur was the opposite.

“I’m sorry for your loss.” The family had been dealt one blow after another.

She tried to smile. “He was old when our father was born. It is only our grandmother now.

She must be protected.”

Etienne respected the need to protect those weaker. Their actions might be rash, but they came from the right place.

Their pack hadn’t backed them.

It was unthinkable to him. That’s what pack did. These three were alone in the world. Amy was watching him, her head tilted to one side, her hair trailing over her shoulder. Her lips curved upward. Damn it, the woman understood him far too well for comfort.

“We need to leave.” Luc began to roll up the nearest sleeping bag. “Since the Salvation Pack is no longer a viable option, we’ll head north into Canada.”

Anger still simmered in Etienne’s blood. He was tired and hungry and wanted nothing more than to get Amy to safety, get them both clean and fed, and sleep for twelve solid hours before he had to deal with any more drama.

“You really think that will make a difference?” The brothers needed a reality check.

“What other options do we have?” Bitterness tinged his tone. The siblings were quietly packing up their belongings. Luc was the undisputed leader of their small group.

“You take a stand. You fight.” There would be no peace until the threat to their sister was eliminated.

“You think I don’t want to?” Luc stomped over and got up in Etienne’s face.

Amy slid between them and shoved at Luc’s chest. “This isn’t helping.”

Wrapping his arm around her waist, Etienne pulled her behind him. The woman was going to make him crazy. He had to have at least two gray hairs by now. “You. Do. Not. Put. Yourself.

Between. Two. Male. Wolves.” Each word was slow and deliberate so there was no misunderstanding. He wished he could look at her, see how she was responding, but he didn’t dare take his eyes off Luc. The man was ready to blow.

A soft hand patted his back. “If male wolves acted with more sense, I wouldn’t have to.”

Luc snorted and his head dropped forward. Once again, she had defused the tension. Amy might make him old before his time, but he’d never be bored.

“I’m not sure if I should apologize or offer my sympathy. You have your hands full.” His words were heartfelt and made Etienne chuckle.

“Hey. Wait a minute.” To keep Amy from going off on them again, he kissed her. Yeah, maybe not smart, but the others were no longer a threat, and he needed to touch her. And, yes, lay claim to her in front of the two other males.

Her hands pressed against his chest as if to push him away, but they slid up and around his neck. Rocked to the core of his being, he slid his tongue past her lips. Every ounce of worry, every fear he’d experienced, morphed into passion.

When she moaned, he thought his head might explode. His cock was already close to punching a hole in his zipper.

“Ah, I don’t think there’s any question about their attraction.” The observation, followed by feminine laughter, brought him back to reality.

As usual, Amy had shredded his control. He eased his head back and stared down into her precious face. Her lips were swollen and moist, her eyes slightly glazed. When she licked her lips, his balls clenched.

Colton had his arm slung around his sister’s shoulders and was grinning like an idiot. Luc seemed more pensive but gave a short nod, conceding he’d never had a chance with her.

“We can drop you back at the bar so you can get your truck.” Luc picked up the three sleeping bags and a duffel that likely had clothes.

“We’ll take the ride.” No way was he running back to get his truck and leaving Amy behind.

She could go with him and they could pace themselves, but she was tired and hungry. He wanted to take care of her.

“That doesn’t solve your problem,” she pointed out.

Amy was right. There was only one thing to do, but it meant she was going to have to cut her journey of self-discovery short. This could backfire on him, on them. Once they were home, it would be easy to fall back into the way things had been. He wanted more. He wanted her as his mate. Most of all, he wanted her to want the same thing.

He wished the Landrys had never crossed their path, but they had, so he had to suck it up and deal with it.

“Amy?” This was in her hands. “This isn’t the end. It’s a detour. If you want to go away again once this is done, we can do that.” He’d never clip her wings, wanted nothing more than to see her

soar. She deserved that.

She rolled her lips and shifted her weight from one foot to another, scuffing the toe of her sneaker on the floor. “You’d do that for me.”

He caught her face in his hands and smoothed the pads of his thumbs over her cheeks. “Don’t you know there’s nothing I wouldn’t do for you?” Bad enough to spill his guts without the rapt audience, but if that’s what it took to reassure her, he didn’t care if it was broadcast worldwide.

She searched his eyes and finally nodded. He drew her in and pressed his lips against her forehead. Every muscle in his body strained, threatening to snap, his restraint sorely tested. The urge to mate—to claim her now—before it was too late beat like a drum in his heart. Fear gripped him, making his blood run cold. He could still lose her.

He tightened his hold on his emotions and yanked them back from the brink. His voice was hoarse when he finally spoke. “Guess we’re all going to Salvation.”

Chapter Thirteen

Etienne dropped their bags on the end of the bed. There was only one, but it was the best he could do. The motel wasn’t fancy, but it was clean and had an attached restaurant that was open from seven in the morning until eleven at night. It was several steps above the place she’d been staying.

“Do you think they’ll be here in the morning?” Amy was standing just inside the door, her arms wrapped around herself.

“That’s up to them.” The Landrys were short on funds, so he’d booked a room for them for the night. If nothing else, it would allow them to clean up and get a decent night’s sleep. It also put Amy’s mind at ease. He hated seeing her so forlorn. They’d also exchanged phone numbers. If there was a problem, they could stay in contact. “I’ll find another way to help them if you’re not ready to go home.” Forcing her to make the decision before she was ready wasn’t going to make it easy for her to settle back into the pack.

She shook her head. “There’s no other way.”

“The hell there isn’t.” He pulled her against him and rested his chin on the top of her head. “I can stash you somewhere safe and hunt this Blaine Mouton down.” It’s what Fleur’s brothers should have done by now. It didn’t sit well with him that they’d run instead of going after the guy.

“That’s not your job.” She pressed her forehead against him and rubbed her nose against his shirt. He’d much rather it was his bare skin, but he’d put it and the rest of his clothes back on before they’d returned to the bar to speak with Gracie and pick up Amy’s final paycheck. As if they were on the same wavelength, she added, “I’m thankful Gracie didn’t call the police when I suddenly disappeared without a word.”

Etienne figured she might have if the lightning storm hadn’t knocked out cell reception.

“You’re an adult. She hadn’t seen you get taken, so the cops wouldn’t have done anything for at least twenty-four hours.”

“I’m glad to have my last paycheck, but sorry I worried her.”

The older woman had been suspicious, but there’d been nothing she could do except wish Amy well and watch her leave.

He led her away from the door and to the bathroom, snagging her bag on the way. “You want to go first?” They were both dirty and sweaty. “Once we’re cleaned up, we can hit the diner for food.” They were close enough to home he could have driven through the night and made it there before breakfast, but neither of them wanted to handle the interrogation that waited there exhausted and hungry. They’d get a good night’s sleep and start out fresh in the morning.

“Should I call home?” She swayed on her feet and yawned.

“That’s up to you, but if we’re bringing three strangers with us, I have to contact Jacque.”

Their alpha would have to approve.

Amy rubbed her hands over her face. “How did things get so complicated?”

“That’s life. We’ll handle one problem at a time.” He’d do what he could to shoulder the burdens facing them, but there were things she’d have to deal with on her own. “You shower. I’ll call Jacque. We’ll go from there. Okay?”

“Did I ever tell you I’m glad you found me and that you’re here with me? That you came for me?” Going up on her toes, she kissed his cheek. It was the kind of kiss you’d give a friend or family member, but it sank into him, driving back the chill that wouldn’t leave him.

“You’re welcome. There’s nowhere I’d rather be.” And that’s what it all boiled down to. No matter the circumstances, this was where he belonged—by Amy’s side.

“There’s no one else I’d want with me.” On that, she took her bag from him, went into the bathroom, and closed the door. He was still standing there when the water came on.

Sucking in a deep breath, he forced himself to turn away. There were things he had to do and time was short. Taking one of the chairs at the table by the window, he pulled out his phone and called.

“Where are you?” Jacque’s deep voice rumbled over the line after only one ring.

“Tennessee border. We’ll be home tomorrow.”

“Not tonight?”

He rubbed a chipped spot on the laminate table. “Non, there are … complications.”

“Tell me.”

Etienne laid out everything about the run-in with the humans and the Landry family. When he was done, the line was silent for a long time.

“You did what was right.” The tension gripping him eased at the praise from his alpha. “Bring them. We’ll deal with the situation from here. I’ll try to keep Cole from killing the brothers on sight.”

He sighed and muttered in Cajun.

“I’ll call him.” Her father loved her, but Etienne didn’t want Amy dealing with the brunt of his fury when he discovered what had happened. Best if he had time to get past the first wave of his anger.

“Non, that is not your place.”

The truth rankled. Etienne wasn’t her mate, only her friend and the man who loved her. He bit his tongue rather than contradict Jacque. He was bringing enough trouble to him without disrespecting the man.

“And how is Amy handling things?”

The water shut off. He swallowed heavily, imagining her naked and clean, smelling of her soap and shampoo.

“Etienne?”

“If it wasn’t for the Landrys, she would not be coming home yet.”

“I see.” Jacque huffed in frustration. “We’ll figure it out.”

No, Amy would decide. On that, he would not budge. One way or another, he’d make sure she got what she needed. “I have to go. We’ll be there sometime tomorrow. I’ll call when we’re close.”

“You’ve done well, Etienne. Your father will be as proud as I am.”

His wolf preened under the praise, but he would never forget that Amy had been threatened and taken under his watch.

****

Slicking her hair back from her face, she studied her reflection. Other than being a tad pale, there was no outward sign of her ordeal. Funnily enough, being kidnapped by the Landrys hadn’t worried her as much as going home did. It made no logical sense since she loved her family.

The clock was ticking. Her time alone with Etienne was growing shorter. She’d be lucky if her daddy didn’t lock her in her room until she was thirty. Sighing, she turned away and dressed in a fresh pair of jeans and her last clean T-shirt. A knock came on the door as she was rolling up her dirty clothes and stuffing them in her bag.

Rather than answer, she opened the door. Steam rushed out of the room, but the temperature shot up. Etienne leaned one arm on the doorjamb, his massive bicep stretching the sleeve of his shirt.

He smelled of earth and rain and sweat. It made her want to drag his shirt off him and take a bite out of his broad chest.

“How are you feeling?” He smoothed a damp lock of hair over her shoulder. His fingers skimmed her neck, sending goosebumps racing down her arms.

“I’m good.” She was safe and alive. The rest, she’d figure out. “Your turn.” Ducking under his arm, she headed straight for the window. The walls were closing in around her.

“Amy.” She closed her eyes, hating the concern in his voice. “I’ll leave your bag here.” He set it on the floor by the door. “I can wait to shower if you’d rather get something to eat first.”

The man was unreal. He was always putting her first. Where was her backbone? “You get cleaned up. I can wait.” And she needed to think.

“Promise me you won’t leave the room without me.” He hovered alongside her, close enough for her to feel his body heat.

She’d survived for weeks on her own, but she couldn’t fault him for his concern. Not with everything that had happened. “I’ll be here.” That much she could give him.

“Give me five minutes.” He grabbed his bag, started toward the bathroom, growled and spun around. Determination etched on his face, he stalked toward her. “I’ll keep you safe—here and at home.” With that cryptic statement, he captured her lips in a searing kiss before stomping off to the bathroom.

Legs shaking, she sank into the chair and pressed her fingers to her lips.

****

Body burning with desire, Etienne let the cold water pummel him. He hadn’t had a hot shower since the day he’d first kissed Amy.

Swallowing a groan, he soaped from head to feet, not wanting to linger. While he believed that she’d stay put, he didn’t want to take any chances. After dragging a towel over his body and hair, he pulled on jeans. He needed a shave, but that could wait. Barefoot and bare-chested, he opened the door. Amy was sitting quietly by the window.

“Almost ready.” He sat on the end of the bed and grabbed his sneakers. No need for socks.

They weren’t going far. Amy stood and started toward him. “Do you know what you want?” He was starving and hoped the restaurant served steak.

“I do.” Something in the tone of her voice snapped his head up. She was staring at his chest as if it was prime rib and she hadn’t eaten in a week.

“Amy?” He swallowed heavily when she stepped between his knees, nudging them apart to make room for herself.

“We’ll be home tomorrow.”

His stomach clenched. Had she changed her mind? “Only if that’s what you want.”

“It’s what has to be.” She stroked his hair away from his face. “There won’t be any way for us to be alone.”

She wasn’t wrong. “We’ll figure it out.” He’d do whatever he had to, wait as long as necessary.

“We could,” she agreed. “Or we can take advantage of the opportunity before us.”

When her hands coasted down his chest, he grabbed them. “What are you saying?” His cock was about to burst. He couldn’t take any teasing, not now. He was too on edge.

She licked her lips. They were full and lush and needed no enhancement. Her damp hair was a shade darker than it would be once it was dry. Her green eyes shone in the dim light. “I want to have sex.” The words poured out in a rush. His heart leaped, then quickly crashed back down to reality when she added, “I’m not ready to mate.”

His body ached to have her beneath him or on top of him moving over him. He was breathing

heavily, his lungs contracting and expanding. His teeth tingled, his fangs wanting to drop. His wolf howled and pawed impatiently within him.

When he didn’t release her hands, she leaned down and dragged her tongue over his bottom lip. He growled and tightened his grip. “This is not a good idea.”

Rather than back off, she kissed a path up his jaw to his ear. “I think it’s an excellent idea.”

A deep growl filled the space. “Trust me, it’s not.” He thrust her back, jumped to his feet, and began to pace, desperately trying to get control. His heart dropped when he finally was able to look at Amy. She was pale, her chin tilted up, her lips compressed.

“I see. You’ve changed your mind.” Bitterness tinged her laugh. “Can’t say I blame you. I’ve been nothing but trouble. Maybe I should have taken Luc up on his offer,” she muttered.

The control of a lifetime exploded. A red haze washed over him. Grabbing Amy by the arms, he pulled her up until she was standing on her toes. “You stay away from him.”

“Why? You don’t want me.” Hands on her hips, she glared, not the least bit intimidated.

“Not want you! Not want you! I’m trying to protect you.” All his fury slipped away, replaced by a growing desperation. “You announce you want to have sex. What am I supposed to do with that?”

He shook his head to try to clear it, but it was impossible. With every breath he took, he got a whiff of Amy and the spicy scent of her desire. “If we hit the sheets naked, I can’t guarantee I won’t mate you.”

He let his fangs drop, hoping to scare some sense into her.

“I trust you.”

God, she slayed him. His arms shook as he struggled to keep from tossing her down on the bed. “Amy, I can’t trust me. I want you for more than one night. I want you forever. If I have you, I’ll never be able to let you go.” She had to understand the consequences. “I’m trying to do the right thing.” And she was making it impossible.

“What about you?” She freed one arm and pressed her palm against his cheek. “You’re always taking care of me, trying to do what’s right for me. What about you?” she repeated.

Closing his eyes, he tried to clear his thoughts. “You’re tired and hungry and scared about going home. We don’t have to stay. Once the problem with the Landrys is handled, we can go away.”

Her parents might kill him, but it was worth the risk. His father might not approve, but he’d understand.

“You don’t want to leave the pack. You belong there.” She leaned inward, her body fitting perfectly against his.

“I belong with you.” For him, that was the bottom line.

“How do you know for sure? We’ve never made love. Maybe we’ll be terrible together.”

Was she kidding? They were like dynamite and an open flame when they got anywhere near each other. He held her at arm’s length and studied her. From the expression on her face, she was dead serious. Amy was an intelligent woman with a huge heart and courage to spare. She’d also been sheltered.

“Chère, have you ever made love before?” He didn’t think she had, but it was stupid to assume. She was a sexy and healthy woman. She could have hooked up with a human since she’d left home. All she’d have to do was crook her finger. Any man would come running. Hell, she’d tried to drive Luc away, and he’d still come after her.

Amy exuded a natural sex appeal while looking like a delicate fairy. It was a hell of a combination.

Her cheeks turned bright red. “I’ve kissed several men. Gotten a little hot and heavy.”

Etienne growled, hating the thought of another man having his hands on her.

She shot him a glare. “Don’t tell me you’re a virgin. I won’t believe it.”

She wasn’t wrong. He’d sown some wild oats in his late teens and early twenties. All casual and mutually satisfying, but there’d been no one for a couple of years now. “I won’t lie. I’ve had women, but not for a long time now.”

“Why not?”

He shrugged, not exactly comfortable talking about this with her. Best to suck it up and get it done. “The encounters were mutually sexually satisfying but left me empty. They were all human. I couldn’t connect with them on anything but a superficial level. They were all missing something.” It had taken him a while to figure out what that was.

“What were they missing?”

He swallowed heavily, his voice hoarse with suppressed desire. “They weren’t you.”

She made a small sound of pain and turned from him, pacing away. Etienne wanted to grab her, but he figured it was best to finish this conversation now so they never had to speak of it again.

“And before you say it, it’s not because you’re the only single female wolf around. I visited other packs.”

Her head snapped around. “You did? When?”

“When I made furniture deliveries in the surrounding states. It’s easy enough to drop by a local bar near where a pack is living. I’ve run into a few wolves, mostly male but some females.”

More than one had expressed interest, but something had always held him back. “When I went on a two-week-long camping trip a couple years back, I headed up to Maine and spent some time with a pack there.”

“I never knew, never suspected.” She sounded hurt.

“No one did.” Maybe his father did, but he’d never asked.

“Trust me when I tell you we’ll be good together. Whenever you’re around, I’m hard as a rock.” She glanced at the front of his jeans. There was no hiding his erection. “To put it bluntly, I want to bury my cock so deep you’ll never think about another male, never want to live another day without me. I want your screams of release ringing in my ears, the scratch of your nails down my back, and the taste of your desire on my lips. That’s why I can’t have sex with you. It won’t be just sex for me. It will be a claiming, whether we actually mate or not.”

He was tired of walking away, of being sensible, of doing what was right. If she didn’t want this, she’d have to be the one to leave. “It’s up to you.”

Chapter Fourteen

Etienne’s expression was remote, his eyes shuttered in a way they’d never been before, not to her. A heavy scruff covered his jaw, and his dark hair hung around his shoulders. Thumbs stuck in his pockets, legs spread, chest bare, he screamed “bad boy.” Big and hard and tough, he’d be right at home in any outlaw biker gang.

Her earlier attempt to get him to have sex before they went home seemed somehow cheap compared to what he was offering. He was experienced—more so than she’d imagined.

Thinking about him being with other women made her slightly ill. She had to grind her teeth together to keep from demanding their names so she could visit them some dark night. Not that he owed her any explanations. All that had happened long before they’d ever shared a kiss.

Not that it seemed to matter to her or her wolf.

Tongue-tied—something that never happened—she sorted through her emotions. The choices were black and white to him. She was stuck more in the gray area. Honestly, she was sick and tired of her own indecisiveness. It wasn’t like her at all.

The air in the room crackled with tension. Finally, he hung his head, huffed out a breath, and reached for his shirt.

If they went home without making love, she’d always wonder what might have been. It would haunt her to the end of her days. Etienne was a huge part of her life. She couldn’t imagine it without him. They shared so much history—laughter and tears, good times and bad. What they’d gone through the past few days was the start of a new chapter. They’d turned a page, were no longer kids. The emotional wounds they could inflict upon each other weren’t the kind you could heal with a hug and an “I’m sorry.”

If this didn’t happen, he might leave and she’d lose him forever. What would she do if he decided he was done waiting for her and found a mate in another pack? That he’d already gone looking shook her to her core.

Panicked, she grabbed the garment before he could pull it over his head. “Amy.” Impatience snapped in his voice. “I’m done playing games.”

“I’m not playing.” She tossed it aside. “I’m not ready to mate, to make a lifelong commitment, but the thought of being without you, of not having you in my life, is more than I can bear.” He deserved her honesty.

“Damn it, Amy.” He raked his fingers through his hair. His biceps bulged. The cords of his neck tightened. “Fuck it.” Plucking her off her feet, he tossed her down onto the bed. “I should walk away, but if this might be the only time I’ll have you, I’ll take it.”

The almost toneless sound of his voice shook her. There was an aloofness about him that sent her nerves jangling. “Etienne.”

His big body shuddered as he kicked off his shoes and removed hers. “I won’t mate with you.

You want sex. You’ve got it, chère. That I can give you, and I promise you won’t have any more doubts about if we’re compatible or not.”

This was cold, almost clinical. The earlier heat was gone from his eyes, replaced by what might be despair. Had she done that to him? It hurt her soul to think she was the cause.

Without pausing, he stripped off his jeans. She drank in every hard inch of him, from the chiseled muscles of his chest and abs to his heavy, full shaft. She licked her lips, her entire body tingling with awareness.

“Last chance.”

There was no turning back, not this time. She either took a leap of faith, believed in herself and in him, or she lived with regret. Sitting up, she dragged off her shirt before reaching for her bra.

His gaze heated, the coldness in it thawing several degrees as she drew the straps down and flung the garment aside. Her nipples puckered under his watchful eyes, and it became difficult to breathe.

The enormity of what she was about to do settled over her. She’d waited to have sex. There’d been plenty of times over the past weeks she could have taken a man back to her room, but something had stopped her. There was always something not quite right about them. She’d wanted sex to mean something, to matter, to be more than satisfying a biological need. She’d grown up in a pack surrounded by loving couples who had commitment and passion and love.

Apparently, she wasn’t as liberated as she’d thought. The idea of sleeping with a man to rid herself of her virginity was distasteful.

Sex with Etienne would mean something. Whatever happened, he was the right man. This was the right time.

His hands fisted at his sides as she shimmied out of her jeans and underwear. The air in the room was stifling, almost hot. Knowing she’d have to make the final move, she opened her arms and sealed her fate. “Come here.”

****

There was a filter between him and reality, his emotions coated with a layer of ice. It had to be that way if he hoped to maintain some semblance of control. But he resented the hell out of it. He finally had Amy where he wanted her, naked and welcoming, but it was nothing like he’d imagined.

Bitterness coated his tongue. The smart thing to do was walk away. To tease himself with what might be and then lose it would be crushing.

He’d never been a defeatist before. He’d always turned a problem around in his head, examining it from all angles until he discovered a way to get what he wanted.

This was different. He’d never wanted something this much.

And she wanted him. That much was clear. The scent of her arousal lingered in the air, along with a hint of fear.

First time, he reminded himself.

He put one knee on the mattress and then crawled up the bed until he loomed over her. If sex was what she wanted, he’d make sure it was the best she’d ever have. If it was possible for physical pleasure to tie her to him, he’d do his best to tangle her up so she’d be captured forever.

“I’ll take care of you,” he promised.

“I know.” She slid her hands up his arms and around his neck. Her gaze darted to the side.

“Ah, so we’re clear, I’ve never done this before.”

It wasn’t fair for him to be relieved, but he was. “It wouldn’t matter if you had,” he assured her. “This is our first time.” Whatever she’d done with other men, he’d make her forget their kisses and their touch.

Leaning down, he nuzzled her jaw, loving the way she tilted her head back to give him access.

She might not be ready to admit it, but she had deep feelings for him.

“You always smell amazing.” He dragged the flat of his tongue over the fluttering pulse in her neck.

“It’s the vanilla in my soap.”

He shook his head. “No, it’s you. It’s sweeter with a hint of spice.”

Her nails dug into his shoulders. “You smell like the forest. Like home.”

He closed his eyes and inhaled sharply. That’s what she was to him—home. It was his job to

convince her of that. Goal set, a burning hope started in his heart and spread until it engulfed him.

His cock nestled against her stomach. His balls were heavy and full. It didn’t help that she was subtly undulating beneath him. One false move and he’d come.

Chaining his lust, he set out to bring hers to new heights. By the time he took her, she’d not only be ready, she’d be begging him for it.

He feasted on her lips. She eagerly parted them, her tongue tangling with his, not in a battle of supremacy but one of passion. Growling, he nipped at her bottom lip. Not hard enough to break the skin—just enough to give her a jolt. He was no tame human. She’d never experienced a wolf before, but she was about to.

Leaving her lush mouth, he laid a path of hot kisses down her neck, dragging his tongue over the heavy beat of her pulse. She arched back, eyes closed.

“Look at me.”

Her lids fluttered and parted.

Satisfied, he shimmied lower, making a sound of pure pleasure when he cupped her breasts.

The tips were tight buds, begging to be tasted. When he flicked one with his tongue, she drew in a sharp breath.

“Like that, do you?”

“Yes.” Her nails dug into his shoulders.

He drew the turgid nipple into his mouth and sucked. She stiffened beneath him, her entire body rigid. Her natural responses and openness sent flames licking down his spine.

Reaching down, he cupped her mound, stroking his index finger through her moist heat before dipping inside. Her thready cry made his scalp tighten. She was so damn wet for him. He pushed all the way in.

“Etienne.” His name fell from her lips, a breathless plea.

He knew what she wanted and gave it to her. Easing his finger out, he curled it upward, stimulating the rough, sensitive area.

Hips bucking, she cried out. Her eyes were open but unseeing. Liquid seeped from the tip of his shaft. He closed his eyes and swallowed heavily.

Not yet. Not yet.

Working his way down her slender torso, he kissed and nipped, branding her with his touch.

Neither of them would ever forget this night. Using his shoulders, he made a place for himself between her thighs. Without pause, he dove right in, dragging the flat of his tongue over her slick folds, tasting her desire.

Strong fingers tangled in his hair and she yanked. “Now.”

“Not yet.” She might think she was ready, but he wasn’t taking any chances. He sucked and licked and teased. She bucked so hard she almost knocked him aside. Gripping her thighs, he growled, letting the vibration ripple through her clit. Her cry bounced off the walls. Her thighs trembled. Her body shook until finally she collapsed.

Etienne shuddered, resting his head on her stomach. The scent of her—the taste of her—made his head spin. This was what it must feel like to be drunk. As a werewolf, his metabolism was so fast that alcohol had barely any affect on him. He’d have to drink copious amounts, and rapidly, to get anywhere near intoxicated—something he’d never felt the need to attempt.

She shifted her legs, her thighs tightening around him. The desire he’d banked broke free, surging forward like water bursting through a dam. A primal need pulsed inside him. It would be so easy to flip her over, mount her, and mark her as he took her.

He shook his head, muscles quivering. That would destroy her faith in him forever.

On a roar, he surged up the bed, gripped one of her legs and pushed it up and out, opening her to him. The head of his shaft pressed against her opening, bathing the tip in her heat. Swallowing heavily, he stared at her as he pushed inside. Her sensitive and swollen inner muscles protested the invasion, and it took some effort to get past the first few inches.

Her eyes flew open, the sleepy, sated expression replaced by surprise. Sweat had tendrils of hair stuck to her forehead. Her cheeks were rosy, her lips swollen.

Pausing, he waited for her to adjust. She reached up and rested her hand against his rigid jaw.

“I want you.”

Snap!

The final tether broke free. Etienne flexed his hips, driving the rest of the way in one stroke.

Her sex rippled around him. Her cry brought him to a screeching halt. Had it been one of pain or pleasure? “Amy?” If he’d hurt her, he’d never forgive himself.

She squirmed beneath him. His eyes rolled back in his head. He had to move. Praying she was with him, he pulled almost all the way out and drove inward. Her sex gripped him so tight he saw stars. His balls were one big ache.

Losing himself in the heat of her acceptance, he fucked her hard and deep. A part of him was appalled by his lack of finesse, but the primal part only knew pleasure.

Amy was his. He’d been her first.

His fangs dropped, the mating urge upon him. He threw his head back, jaw clenched to keep from howling. His orgasm shot up from his balls and rocketed out the tip of his cock. It went on and on. He had barely enough presence of mind to bury his face in the pillow and not her neck. Jagged teeth ripped into the fabric. He rocked his hips, wanting to milk every last drop of pleasure, making sure his pelvis brushed against her core.

Arching up, she rubbed against him and gave a thin cry. Lightning snapped down his spine as she came. His shaft flexed and another orgasm rocked him. When it was over, he was a boneless heap, lying half on top of her.

Long minutes passed before his fangs retreated. He swallowed back his resentment. It wasn’t right of him to push his timetable on Amy. His job was to banish all her uncertainty about the rightness of their mating. And if he couldn’t do that? To walk away and never look back.

“Are we dead?” Her voice was sluggish and slightly bewildered.

Digging deep, he raised his head and managed to look at her. She was pale and sweaty, her eyes unfocused, but there was a small smile on her lips. “I don’t think so.” Giving a grunt, he pulled out and turned onto his back, dragging her into his arms, not willing to let her go. “How do you feel?”

A low-grade tension ran through him. Making love to her was the best thing that had ever happened to him. Would she have regrets?

“Thoroughly debauched.” Lying on her side, she threw an arm over his chest and a leg over his thighs before nuzzling his pec.

He waited for her to keep going—Amy was a talker—but she went silent. Not satisfied with a two-word answer, he asked, “Did I hurt you?”

She shook her head, her hair brushing over his skin. “It was more a surprise than anything.

There was a brief pain, but it didn’t last.”

“There shouldn’t have been any pain. I lost control.” Something he shouldn’t have done. There would only be one first time. He’d wanted it to be perfect for her.

Her chuckle was unexpected. “I liked that part. You’re always so restrained. It’s

intimidating.”

The covers rustled as he pushed her onto her back and turned on his side so he was looking down at her. “I intimidate you?” That, he wouldn’t believe. She’d been teasing him and running around behind him since they were kids.

She wrinkled her nose. “You don’t intimidate me, per se, but you always seem to know what you want and how to get it. You’re focused, I guess, is a better way to put it. I’ve always flitted through life, doing whatever appeals to me in the moment.”

“What’s wrong with that?” He nudged several strands of hair off her face, trying to follow the train of conversation. Not easy when all he wanted to do was take her again. His shaft was already erect and ready. “There’s a joyousness to the way you live that I envy.”

“Really?” Her frown suggested she wasn’t convinced.

“I don’t remember a time I wasn’t planning what I wanted to do next and how to achieve it.

It’s the way I am. My parents worry about me. Hell, I do, too. The innate drive to protect everyone around me could swallow me whole if I let it. You bring light to my life. Ever since we were kids, you taught me that sometimes you do things for the simple joy of it, for the laughter. You’re a gift, Amy. You bring so much to all our lives, and it kills me that you don’t see the value in it because there’s not some grand goal at the end and it doesn’t have a monetary value attached to it. If you’re searching for purpose, there’s no greater one than what you bring to the pack simply by being yourself.”

He was rarely so open with his thoughts, choosing to watch and listen rather than speak. But these were things she needed to hear. It might be the only time in his life he was unguarded enough to tell her.

Her eyes filled and a tear slipped down her cheek. Groaning, he nuzzled her temple. “I didn’t mean to upset you.” He should have kept his mouth shut.

“That’s how you really see me?” The uncertainty in her voice slayed him.

“Yes.” He brushed his lips over her forehead, down her nose, and finally against her mouth.

“If you want a career, you’re smart enough to figure out how to accomplish it. And you’re not alone.

I’ll help you. Your parents will help you. Hell, everyone in the pack would be behind you. I don’t think waitressing in a bar is what you’re looking for. Travel is something that can happen, if that’s what you need. If you want to draw or paint or build or write or sew or bake, that’s good, too.” He listed off skills many of the other women in the pack had turned into careers. “I believe in you.”

Taking a risk he might piss her off and drive her away, he added, “The only one in your way is you.”

Chapter Fifteen

Her breath caught in her throat. Still reeling from having sex for the first time—and how crazy was it to finally be able to say that at the ripe age of twenty-four—he dropped another bombshell on her.

I believe in you. Those four words made her heart swell. The way he viewed her was so different from what she saw when she looked in the mirror. And he wasn’t saying them to get her into bed. He’d already had her. She was a sure thing. And Etienne was brutally honest.

“I worry about not being enough.” She cringed as she said it. Talk about sounding needy. She wouldn’t have minded snuggling a bit longer before getting into a heavy discussion. Every cell in her body was still vibrating with pleasure. Curling her toes, she fought to hold on to the magic. A girl only got one first time.

“In what ways?” His eyes darkened with concern.

She started to blurt out an answer. Then she stopped to consider everything he’d said. He didn’t often have that much to say. When he spoke, people listened, even Jacque and her daddy.

Etienne had a thoughtful way of looking at things.

She licked her lips and sought the right words. Etienne’s groan caught her off guard. He rubbed his thumb over her bottom lip. “It makes me want to kiss you again.”

His erection pressed against her side, driving out the sleepiness as desire began to simmer.

“Is that supposed to be a deterrent?” Her core clenched. Sex with Etienne had been earthy and real, leaving her sweaty and sticky and wanting more. She ran her hand down his chest. He caught it before it dipped lower.

“I can see how I intimidate you.” Bringing her hand to his mouth, he nipped at her fingers.

She gave a snort of laughter. “I explained what I meant.” He’d never let her live that down.

He sucked one of her fingers into his mouth. Heat raced through her, pooling between her legs.

“Etienne.”

He shuddered and released her. “Later.”

“You’re no fun.” She tugged her hand away.

His grin was too cocky for her liking. “You didn’t think that earlier.”

“I’m rethinking it.”

“No, you’re avoiding the question.”

God, he was so right. Closing her eyes against the potent sight of his muscled body, which made her want to do wicked things, she ordered her thoughts. “All the other women are so accomplished. They have a passion for what they do.” That was the key, what she hadn’t fully understood. “I enjoy drawing, sewing, gardening, baking, and all the rest, but I’m not passionate about it the way they are.”

He smoothed his hand over her hair. She opened her eyes, needing to see his reaction. He was frowning, not upset but thoughtful. “Part of your problem is you’re good at everything.”

Her mouth fell open. “What?”

“You need to find something that challenges you.” His lips twitched. “Like me.”

He wasn’t lying. He’d been challenging her since they were kids, urging her to try new things, pushing her out of her comfort zone.

“Try new things. Or look at the skills you have in a new way.”

“You make it sound so easy.” She tried to roll away, but he stopped her.

“Not easy. Worthwhile.” In an abrupt change of subject, he asked, “Are you hungry?”

Her stomach growled in answer. “Starving.”

“How about I run out to the diner.” He reached over the side of the bed, grabbed his jeans, and pulled out his phone. “They’re still open. I can bring back food.”

“That would be great.” It would also give her some time alone to think. She wasn’t in the mood to be among people.

Etienne pulled on jeans and a shirt and slipped his feet into his sneakers. Chilled without him beside her, she pulled the thin bedspread over her. He leaned down and kissed her. “Thank you for giving me the greatest gift of my life.”

Her chest tightened. “It was worth the wait.” The entire experience was something she’d never forget.

His lips hovered over hers. “I want you in my bed tonight and every night.” Her wolf howled in agreement. Her body practically sang the “Hallelujah” chorus. “I just want you.” He looked as though he might say more, but straightened. “I’ll be back. Promise me you’ll still be here.”

She shot upright in bed. “Are you serious?” They’d just had sex, and he expected her to run?

His inscrutable expression gave nothing away. “Promise me.”

“If you think I might run, why would you even believe me?”

“Because you’d never break a promise.” Big and tall and as immovable as a mountain, he stared down at her, hands on his hips.

“I’ll be here.” There was nowhere else to go. She had obligations to the Landrys, to her family and pack, but most of all she owed Etienne. He’d come to her rescue not once but twice. He’d made her first lovemaking experience one for the record books, and he honestly wanted to help her succeed. “I’ll be here,” she said again. Because beyond all the rest, she didn’t want to leave him.

He gave her a curt nod and left, making sure the lock engaged on the way out. She dropped back on the bed and stared up at the ceiling. Pushing her worries aside, she wrapped her arms around herself. His scent and that of their lovemaking surrounded her. Her nipples peaked and brushed against the cover. She sucked in a breath. Her core pulsed with longing. She wanted him again. One time and she was already addicted to him.

Climbing out of bed, she padded on bare feet to the bathroom. Knowing he wouldn’t be gone long, she jumped in the shower. Her thoughts jumbled together, one on top of the other, as she scrubbed from head to toe. His perception of her had certainly given her a lot to think about.

Bottom line, she was a wolf. Being alone sucked. The adventure of it had carried her through the first two weeks. Since then, she’d been lost and alone. In truth, his being here was giving her an excuse to go home.

“I don’t need an excuse.” Her family would welcome her back with open arms. That’s what family did. Feeling better than she had in weeks, she stepped out and grabbed a towel. Whatever the future held, she was ready to face it.

The outer door to the room opened. Etienne was back. That was fast. The service must be great at the diner. She wrapped the towel around her and opened the door. “Hope you got plenty. I’m starving.”

“So am I.” The stranger stood well over six feet with broad shoulders, long brown hair, and dark eyes. The breeze from outside carried his scent into the room. This was no human. This was a male wolf.

Her heart skipped a beat before it began to race. “Who are you?” And what was he doing in her room? She’d never seen him before.

Cruelty tinged his smile. The bastard was enjoying her fear.

“You can make this easy on yourself or hard. Either way, I’m going to get what I want.” He advanced toward her.

****

Etienne tapped the toe of his shoe against the floor in time to the country song on the radio, silently cursing the slow service. He swallowed his complaints, since it was a big order and near closing. Both of them had burned a lot of fuel and needed to replace it. Amy was beautiful as ever, but her face had thinned out. She wasn’t gaunt, by any means, but she needed to eat more.

It was his pleasure to feed her.

He’d wanted nothing more than to crawl back in bed, take her into his arms, and love her into exhaustion. If he lived to be a hundred and fifty—a possibility with his genetics—he’d never get enough of her. After having a taste of perfection, no other woman would ever do. She’d ruined him for any other.

It was astounding that she didn’t see herself the way he did, the way the rest of the pack did.

She’d always been outgoing and seemingly confident. It had hidden deep insecurities. She hadn’t been trying to find herself on this trip. She’d been running from herself. Unable to do that, she’d ended up frustrated and lost.

They’d eat and make love. Once she was happy and sated, they’d talk again. He was confident she would figure things out given time. She was clever, intelligent, and had all the support she needed.

The back of his neck itched. He rubbed his hand over it and rolled his shoulders. What the hell was wrong with him? Amy had promised she wouldn’t run. The Landrys were tucked away in their room. It was up to them if they left or not.

Something is wrong.

“I’ll be back.” He’d already paid for the food, so the lone waitress gave him a distracted nod as she continued to clean the empty tables.

Unwilling to ignore his instincts, which were screaming at him, he hurried out the door and down the side of the building to the very end. Cars and trucks filled half the parking lot, but there was no one around this time of night. The murmurs of televisions and voices seeped out from the nearby rooms, but no insects buzzed, and no nocturnal animals skittered nearby. Something had frightened them into silence.

The door to the room was partially open, the flimsy lock broken. Senses alert, he crept forward. Keeping low, he burst into the room.

The covers on the bed were a mess, and there were clothes strewn across the floor. That was how it had been when he’d left. What wasn’t the same was the dresser was askew. The table and one of the chairs were on their sides.

Fear chilled him to the bone. “Amy.” He whispered her name, even though she wasn’t here.

Her duffel bag sat untouched on the floor. The scent of an unfamiliar male filled his nostrils.

Etienne growled and whirled around when someone ran up behind him. Luc skidded to a stop and held up his hands. “We have a problem.” He sniffed the air and cursed. “Fuck, I’m too late.”

“Talk to me.”

“Fleur just told me she called our grandmother early this morning to let her know we were okay. I’ve told her time and again we can’t contact anyone, but she didn’t want her to worry.” He lowered his head and shook it. “She told her what had happened and where we were headed.”

“Finish it.” He kicked off his shoes and ripped off his clothes.

“Blaine was nearby and overheard. My grandmother didn’t realize it until someone told her

that Blaine took off in a hurry after being outside her home. Somehow he found us.”

Fleur’s zealous stalker hadn’t come for her. No, she was protected by two brothers. He’d taken Amy instead. She’d been all alone.

Cursing himself and the Landry family, Etienne raced for the door, shifting on the fly, not waiting until he was at the woods. Luc called his name, but he wasn’t waiting for anyone. Bones cracked and realigned. Fur pushed through his skin to cover his entire body. His jaw extended. Heavy paws hit the ground. The man had given way to the wolf. Another male had his mate. It might not be official, but in his heart Amy already belonged to him. By taking him as a lover, she was offering him a commitment. He lifted his head, breathing in the night air.

There!

He unerringly caught the scent of soap and woman, almost masked by the heavier one of male musk. Veering off, he tracked, silently flowing around every obstacle, an apex predator on the hunt.

I can’t lose her.

There was no urge to howl. His rage was glacial—cold and deadly. Blaine Mouton had come after the wrong woman. The Landry brothers might be unwilling to confront him. Etienne relished the opportunity.

If one hair on Amy’s precious head was harmed, Etienne would gut the other man without regret. Any male who preyed on women didn’t deserve to live. Ears twitching, he cataloged every sound. Eyes scanning, he noted every bent branch and snapped twig, every piece of churned-up ground or trampled moss. From the scent, he could tell it wasn’t Amy leaving the trail. Her daddy was a ghost in the woods and had taught her to be the same. The male wasn’t nearly as good as she was.

That meant she’d somehow managed to evade her attacker … so far.

Nose in the air, he tracked Blaine. The son of a bitch wasn’t even trying to hide. Did he think Etienne was like the other males in the Landrys’ pack? That he’d back down when faced with a challenge? He was in for a rude awakening.

Growling carried through the night air, followed by a yelp. Swerving to his right, he picked up the pace.

****

Blaine was stalking her. He’d walked into the motel room like he owned it, had told her who he was, and then informed her she was going to take Fleur’s place—temporarily. He still wanted Fleur as a mate, but Amy would do in the interim to lure his prey to him.

Bastard.

She’d taken him by surprise when she’d dropped the towel, shifted, and sprang. Not at him but the dresser. When he’d lunged at her, she’d soared over his head, off the table, and out through the door to freedom. She’d wanted to run to Etienne, but she couldn’t allow humans to see her. The woods had been closer and familiar. Her wolf was skilled in running without leaving a trail.

What Blaine lacked in skill, he made up for in determination and sheer brute strength. She hadn’t been able to shake him. Without slowing, she began to circle back toward the motel, toward Etienne. When he realized she was missing, he’d start looking. All she had to do was keep out of her stalker’s way a bit longer.

A large brown wolf jumped into her path. Surprised, she stumbled when she put on the brakes, going head over heels. Bouncing back up, she crouched and growled. If he thought she’d roll over like some weak bitch, he’d better think again.

He shifted back to his human form and laughed. “I like a woman with spirit. Makes it more fun

to break her.”

Fear tingled down her spine, but she ignored it. She needed to be clearheaded and calm.

Etienne would come for her. The certainty centered her.

Blaine held his hands out by his sides. “Give it up. All women are the same. They all protest until I fuck them. When I’m done, they keep their mouths shut. They understand if they don’t, I’ll be back.” He grabbed his thick, erect cock and stroked it. If he got close enough, she’d bite the damn thing off. “Once I’m done with you, you’ll take me to Fleur. Then you can be on your way.” His dark eyes narrowed, and he dropped any pretense of affability. “You owe me. You were helping her useless brothers keep her from me.”

This was well beyond stalker and into full-on obsession. The only way he’d ever leave Fleur alone was if he was dead. He’d use anyone and anything to reach that goal, including her. She backed up a step and growled.

Blaine smiled. “I haven’t had a good fight in a while. Women are easy. All they want is a smile and some attention. When I give it to them, they melt like ice in the spring. Most complain when things get a bit rough, but it’s too late by then.”

If his goal was to freak her out, he’d have to do better. She opened her mouth on a yawn. His head snapped back as if she’d hit him. “You’ll pay for that.” In response to the threat, she yawned again, all the while keeping a sharp eye on his body language.

Every male in the pack had trained her. All of them had told her one thing—anger caused mistakes. It was her hope that if she made him angry enough, he’d do something stupid that would allow her to get away.

On a howl of anger, he lunged, shifting on the fly. Anticipating the attack, Amy dropped and rolled. Scrambling to her feet, she began to run. Sharp teeth sank into her hind leg. Yelping in pain, she turned and snapped, grazing his sensitive muzzle with her fangs. He released her and growled, blood and saliva dripping from his fangs.

Her leg was already healing, but it was taking longer than normal. She hadn’t started out at full strength and needed fuel for her body to work at optimum levels. Limping slightly, she circled around to face him.

Think. There has to be a way around him.

He wanted to hurt her, would enjoy it. She’d made him mad enough that he might actually kill her. No matter what happened, what she had to endure, survival was the goal. Etienne would come for her. No matter what Blaine did to her, he’d still want her, would still love her. Because it was real and true and everything she’d ever wanted.

Crappy time for a revelation, but better late than never. Funny how having your life on the line put things in perspective.

Blaine leaped into the air. Amy’s hindquarters quivered as she gathered her strength to jump aside.

A giant black wolf streaked through the sky, knocking the big brown one out of midair. The two male wolves tumbled to the ground in a mass of fur and fangs and blood as their claws ripped at one another.

Etienne had found her.

Chapter Sixteen

Etienne slammed his opponent to the ground, raking at his soft underbelly. Blaine’s claws ripped at his side, but he didn’t feel it.

Amy was safe. He’d found her in time.

Standing between her and the other male, he studied his opponent. Blaine flashed his fangs and growled. Etienne remained silent and stared. It was amazing how such a simple action intimidated people.

Blaine made several false moves, trying to get him to commit to one side or another. He wasn’t falling for it. He cataloged every twitch of his ears, the ripple of every muscle, watching for an opening to attack.

Normally, he’d try to reason with the other male, get him to back off and go home. Not this time. This wolf had declared war on the Salvation Pack when he attacked Amy. If Etienne didn’t kill him, her daddy would hunt him down and finish the job, likely with Etienne’s father by his side.

They didn’t take well to their women being threatened.

Blaine shifted back to his human form, swiping the back of his hand over his mouth. Blood covered his chest, but the gashes had closed. “You’re willing to fight over a woman?” He turned his head and spit. “They’re all the same, teasing a man, and then pretending outrage when he tries to take her up on her offer.”

He’d met men like this before, both human and wolf. Men who took what they wanted, making excuses for their bad behavior, blaming others for their actions. Believing that made them real men instead of immature idiots. He was a predator who thought he was at the top of the food chain. Up until now, he’d never been challenged. His alpha and others had allowed this to happen. Now it was too late to change course.

He dragged his hands through his hair. “I wasn’t going to hurt her. Just use her to trade for Fleur.”

“That’s not true.”

Damn it, Amy had shifted, which meant she was naked and vulnerable behind him.

“He was planning on … hurting me.” The way she stumbled over the words gave him a pretty damn good idea what the fucker had planned. Etienne also smelled Amy’s blood.

Blaine had to die.

“Stay out of this, bitch.” He took a menacing step toward her, rage in his eyes. This was a man who enjoyed hurting those weaker than him.

Etienne struck, hard and fast, knocking his foe to the ground. The other male threw up his arm to protect himself, but there was no stopping him. Fangs sank through skin. Claws dug in. His powerful jaw wrapped around his opponent’s neck.

Not willing to lay down and die, Blaine shifted. His wolf flailed from side to side, managing to break the grip. He was bleeding heavily from the neck. Blood loss might eventually kill him, but Etienne wasn’t taking any chances.

When he turned to run, Etienne shifted back to his human form, lunged at the wolf, and locked his arm around the furry neck. Forearm tight, bicep flexed, he gritted his teeth and gave a sharp twist.

The crack echoed around them, followed by a heavy silence.

He released the limp body and closed his eyes, chest heaving. On his knees in the dirt, he asked forgiveness for taking a life and thanked whatever deity might be listening that he’d had the strength to protect Amy.

Amy! She’d seen him brutally take down his opponent, watched him kill. What would she think of him now? He opened his eyes and stared down at his hands. They were stained with blood and would be for all time.

He waited for the surge of regret, for the guilt. There was only a grim satisfaction that he’d done his job—protecting Amy. He wasn’t a killer. He was a protector. It was a huge difference, and one he could live with.

“Etienne.” She knelt beside him, her hand tentatively stroking his shoulder. Her face was pale.

Dirt and blood marred her skin.

“I’m sorry.” He started to touch his hand to her face, remembered the blood, and hesitated.

She caught his hand before he could withdraw it and brought it to her cheek.

He briefly closed his eyes and swallowed heavily.

“I’m the one who’s sorry.”

“He could have walked away. This was his choice. You’re not to blame.” He wouldn’t allow her to take on any guilt over this.

“If I hadn’t left home—”

“No.” He cut her off before her thoughts went any further down that path. No good could come of it. “If it hadn’t been you, it would have been another woman, maybe more. A male like that doesn’t care who he hurts. If it hadn’t ended here, who knows how many more people would have been harmed.” And that was what would allow him to sleep at night. “You might want to shift.”

“What?” Worry clouded her eyes. “What are you talking about?”

“We’re about to have company.” And he did not want Luc or Colton to see her naked.

Muttering under her breath, she shifted and leaned her furry body against him. He ran his hand over her head and down her back, assuring himself that whatever injuries she’d sustained were minor.

Luc stepped out from behind a tree. His siblings joined him, all of them fully dressed. He tossed Etienne’s discarded jeans at him. “Thought you might need these.” He looked down at Blaine and huffed out a breath. “We came to help, but I guess we’re too late.”

“Yeah, you’re late.” Weeks too late, maybe months. This should have been nipped in the bud when it began, either by the Landrys or the alpha of either pack. All of them had abdicated responsibility, pushing it on the other. That wasn’t leadership. That was weakness.

He grabbed his jeans and pulled them on.

“Is Amy hurt?”

It was Fleur who asked, so he managed to swallow his ire. She was pale as a ghost, her eyes downcast. “Minor gashes. Sleep and food will heal her.” He rubbed his hands over his face. “Damn it, I forgot the food.” The diner would be closed by now.

Luc nudged Blaine’s body with the toe of his sneaker. “He’s really dead.” Bleak acceptance filled his eyes. “You see me as weak. Maybe you’re right. God only knows how many nights I’ve lain awake thinking the same thing. But I have a younger sister and brother and an elderly grandmother to protect. If I’d killed Blaine, I risked starting a pack war. I couldn’t protect any of them from that.”

The hell of it was, he wasn’t wrong. The situation should never have been allowed to escalate.

“You can’t run from your problems. They follow you wherever you go. You have to face them and deal with whatever the outcome is.” Etienne had learned that from his father. His parents had both been through pain and heartache. Their pasts had eventually caught up with them, but they’d stood together and come out on the other side. Not unscathed, but stronger and happier and together.

He wanted that for him and Amy.

When he glanced at her, she had her head lowered. Damn it, he hadn’t been talking about her, even if he could see why she might think he was.

“We should get back.” The faster he got her alone, the faster they could talk about what had happened. He didn’t want her thinking for one second that he saw her as anything less than courageous.

“What about the body?” Colton had his arm around Fleur, blocking her from seeing Blaine.

Guess this was on him, too. “We need to burn it. Can’t risk anyone stumbling across him. We need to find his clothes, see if he had his wallet or keys on him, if he’d checked into the motel or not.”

There were so many details, and he couldn’t afford to miss a single one. This could not come back on him or his pack or Amy.

“Fleur and I will find his clothes,” Colton offered. “I can backtrack his scent.”

Etienne nodded. “Do it. Don’t suppose any of you have matches or a lighter.”

Surprisingly, it was Fleur who offered. “I do.” Reaching into her pocket, she pulled out a compact lighter. “We’ve been camping out a lot, using a gas stove.”

Luc took it from his sister and kissed her forehead. Etienne wanted to hate him, but he loved his siblings and had done the best he could to protect them. Not everyone was blessed with the support system he’d grown up with. “I’ll help you.”

Etienne wanted Amy by his side, but she didn’t need to see this. “Do you want to stay here or go with Colton and Fleur?” he asked, unwilling to make the decision for her. Only she knew what would bring her closure.

She glanced at the body, then at him, and trotted off behind the siblings. He wanted to howl in frustration. Was she angry with him? Upset? Or did she simply want to put all this behind her?

“Let’s get this done.” He cast one final glance in her direction before reaching down and grabbing Blaine’s limp body. “There’s a grouping of rocks back that way.” He tilted his head to the left. “We can dump his body in the center and contain the fire.”

They worked in silence. Seeing the bloodstains on his jeans, Etienne removed them and tossed them on top of the body. Luc flicked the lighter, and the flames caught. The animals began their nightly jaunts in search of food. An owl swooped nearby. The two men stood in silence until the fire burned itself out, leaving nothing but ash.

It was done.

That was one problem dealt with. The bigger battle remained. Turning his back, he began to walk. “Let’s go.” He welcomed the cool air on his body, letting it blow away the stench of sweat, blood, death, and regret. It wasn’t the killing he regretted. It was that Amy had been forced to protect herself.

“Thank you.” Luc interrupted his dark thoughts. “I’m not sure I’d have been able to kill him.

He had more training than I did. Something I’m rectifying. I’d hoped to be ready by the time he found us.”

Etienne grunted, not wanting his thanks. “What will you do? Will you go home, or do you still want to come with us?” They had choices. And so did Amy. He ignored the knot in his gut. He wanted to go back to Salvation, badly wanted to see his parents and talk to his father. That might not happen now.

“I’m not sure.” Luc looked up at the sky. The moon was bright and the stars shining. Not that they needed it to guide them with their preternatural vision, but it did make the journey easier and nicer.

Etienne loved the sky at night, had spent hours lying on his back, looking up at the vastness

and beauty of it. Even that couldn’t distract him from his worry about Amy. The closer they got to the motel, the colder he became. And it had nothing to do with the temperature.

He paused at the edge of the woods and listened. There was no one around. Parading naked across the parking lot might cause trouble, something they didn’t need.

Colton slipped out of the shadows. He’d been waiting for them and keeping an eye on both their rooms. “The women are safe. I have Blaine’s wallet and keys. Doesn’t look like he checked in here or anywhere else. That’s his truck.” He pointed to a big black Chevy parked in the far end of the lot. “I’ll drive it when we leave here tomorrow, dump the clothes somewhere along the way, and abandon the vehicle in the parking lot of a Walmart or grocery store, somewhere it might not be noticed for a few days.”

“Be sure to wipe it down. You don’t want your fingerprints in the system.”

Colton nodded. “Will do.”

“We’ll handle the rest. You’ve done enough.” Luc held out his hand. “I’ll shred Blaine’s identification and scatter it as we go.” As they shook, he continued, “I’ll make sure none of this comes back on you. It’s time we handled our own problems.”

Luc might be a year or two older than him, but Etienne felt far older. It wasn’t the other man’s fault he hadn’t been given the education or guidance he’d needed. He was doing what he could and willing to learn, willing to put himself in harm’s way for his family. That said everything about his character—even if it was misguided at times.

He’d never forget they kidnapped Amy, but he could let it go. “We all need help now and then.

That’s what being pack is all about.”

Luc’s eyes darkened and his jaw firmed as he nodded.

Etienne’s stomach growled. He glanced toward the diner. The lights were out, but two bags sat outside the door.

Luc noticed where he was looking. “You think that might be your order?”

“I’d paid for it, so maybe.”

“I’m on it.” He loped across the lot, returning moments later with the bags.

Etienne took them. At this point, he’d eat whatever was in there. “Thanks. See you in the morning.”

“Take care of yourself and Amy.” Luc slapped him on the shoulder. “If there’s ever anything I can do for you, anything you ever need, all you have to do is ask.”

“Same goes,” Colton told him.

Giving them a curt nod of thanks, he stood outside his motel room. Amy was waiting on the other side. Taking a deep breath, he turned the handle.

****

The low rumble of voices in the parking lot made her knees weak. Etienne was finally here.

After Colton had escorted her to her room, she’d shifted back to human form, pulled on a T-shirt and shorts, and paced, unable to sit and relax. Her vivid imagination was a blessing and a curse.

It was all too easy to picture the two men grimly burning a body in the woods.

The energy shifted in the room. Even without looking out the window, she knew he was standing outside the door. Should she open it or wait for him? Before she could decide, it opened and Etienne walked in, totally naked and carrying two large sacks.

“You didn’t go to the diner naked, did you?” The ridiculousness of her question occurred to her even as she spoke it. “Forget it. Of course, you didn’t. What happened to your pants? What’s in the bags?” She was talking way too fast, her nerves getting the better of her.

He set the bags on the table and put his hands on her shoulders. “Breathe.”

She sucked air into her lungs. Her heart was beating a hundred miles a minute. “You were gone so long.”

“We hurried as fast as we could.” He rolled his neck. The tiny lines at the corners of his eyes seemed deeper than usual. For the first time since she’d known Etienne, he seemed tired. And why wouldn’t he? He’d raced through the woods after her, fought another wolf, and killed him. All to protect her.

“I was worried about you.”

He bent down and rested his forehead against hers. She leaned against him, wrapping her arms around his waist. He normally radiated a lot of heat. Now, he was more “normal” temperature, which for him was cold. His big body was as strong and substantial as ever.

“Not half as worried as I was about you. As for my jeans, there was too much blood on them.

I burned them.”

Along with the body. That went unsaid.

She had so many questions, but they could wait. “Why don’t you get cleaned up and then we’ll eat.” Delicious smells wafted from the bags. “You never said where you got the food.”

“The bags were outside the diner. Waitress must have left them, assuming I’d be back.”

Heaving a sigh, he raised his head and rubbed a hand over his face. “I won’t be long.” He left her standing there and went into the bathroom. It hadn’t escaped her that he hadn’t hugged her back, the only contact between them where their foreheads had touched. She tried not to take it personally or read anything into it. His hands were stained with blood and dirt. He wouldn’t have wanted to touch her with them.

She would have rather had the hug.

The shower came on. Etienne was in there, alone and hurt. His physical injuries had healed, but there were emotional ones. You didn’t kill someone and remain unscarred, unless you were a sociopath.

The food beckoned. She should set it out and have it ready for when he finished. They both needed to eat. She needed to get cleaned up, too. She was grungy, the blood from the gashes she’d taken still smeared over her. Taking the time to get cleaned up hadn’t seemed important with Etienne out there dealing with the body.

Her entire body began to tremble. Oh, God, a man had died tonight. She’d grown up around tough males, wolves who had fought hard and long to get what they had. Her father had killed to protect her mother. Amy had never seen a dead body until tonight. There’d been trouble when they were kids, but the adults had shielded them from all of that.

She slumped against the wall, needing something to hold on to. No, not something. Someone.

Pushing away, she went to the bathroom and opened the door. The flimsy curtain was across the tub, keeping the water from spraying on the floor. Through it, she could see Etienne, hands braced against the wall, water pounding his head and shoulders.

His head jerked up and he yanked the curtain back. “What’s wrong?”

Droplets clung to his long, dark lashes, making his sinful blue eyes appear brighter. With his hair slicked back from his face, the sharp angles of his cheekbones and hard line of his jaw were exposed.

“Chère?”

She loved the way his accent came out when he was angry or aroused. Her nipples pebbled against her shirt. She hadn’t bothered with a bra. Was glad she hadn’t. Rather than reply to his

question, she whipped the garment over her head.

His eyes widened as his gaze zoomed in on her breasts. They swelled under his perusal. The air in the room was moist and hot. It was about to get a whole lot hotter.

She shimmied out of her shorts and stepped over the side of the tub.

His Adam’s apple rippled. “What are you doing?”

She grabbed the soap and rubbed it between her hands. “I thought it was obvious.” His erection nudged her hip. He was as aroused as she was. Tossing the soap down on the ledge, she placed her hands on his chest and rubbed, enjoying the play of heavy muscles beneath her palms.

“Amy. Sweetheart.” He placed his hands over hers, trapping them. “You’ve been through a lot.”

Always the protector. Always the one looking out for her. Sometimes the protector needed someone to take care of him.

“I was afraid.” The simple truth brought tears to her eyes. She’d tried to be brave, but the reality was she’d been terrified. If Blaine had caught her—

“I know, baby.” Strong arms banded around her. A profound sense of safety washed over her as she snuggled against him. “I was scared, too.”

“You were?” She raised her head from where it rested over his heart. He always seemed so confident and sure of himself.

He brushed a lock of hair out of her eyes. “I was afraid I wouldn’t get to you in time. I was afraid he’d hurt you.” A shudder rocked through him. They clung to each other, the press of their naked bodies more comforting than sexual.

When the water turned cold, he pulled away. “Let’s get you cleaned up.” He grabbed the soap.

“Only if I can return the favor. I came in here to seduce you.”

“You seduce me by existing.” He rubbed his soapy hands over her breasts, stealing her breath.

“Everything about you calls to me.”

She sucked in her stomach when his hands continued down her torso. She expected him to keep going, but he grabbed a washcloth and got down to business. Slightly confused, she went along, taking the cloth long enough to scrub his back.

When they were clean, he helped her step out of the tub onto the thin mat. “Why?” she asked.

“You want me.” His erection was too blatant to miss.

“More than almost anything.” He rubbed the scratchy, thin towel over her arms and legs. “The only thing I need more is to take care of you.” He dragged the damp towel over himself before tossing it over the rod. “We’re both clean. Once we’re fed, we can crawl into bed.” Hand on the small of her back, he led her into the other room and seated her at the table.

“We’re dining naked now? That’s a thing?”

A smile played at the corners of his mouth. “It’s on my list.”

Intrigued, she rested her elbows on the table. “What list?”

“My ‘what I want to do with Amy’ list.”

His teasing lightened her mood. He was right—not that she’d ever admit it. They needed some normalcy before making love again. Clean and fed, they could put tonight behind them and focus on the future.

“Do tell? What else is on that list? And where can I find it?”

Chuckling, he set a foam tray in front of her and opened it. “They’re cold, but I know how much you love pancakes.”

“Is there syrup?” She was hungry enough to eat the container itself.

He set three packets of syrup in front of her.

“Thanks. What about this mysterious list?” She dug in, the first mouthful exploding on her tongue. “So good.”

He paused from shoveling cold scrambled eggs into his mouth long enough to tap the side of his head. “It’s all in here.”

Loving their banter, she pointed the plastic fork at him. “I’m not sure I believe you.”

He caught her hand and brought it to his lips. “Trust me. It’s long and varied.”

Tears pricked her eyes, but she blinked them back. Her smile wobbled.

“Amy?”

“I’m fine.” She wouldn’t have it any other way.

They ate in silence until all the containers were empty and the garbage tucked back into the bags. She climbed into bed, holding the covers back until he slid in beside her. Rather than kiss her, he rolled onto his side and propped his head up on his hand. “We don’t have to go home now. Not if you don’t want to.”

Chapter Seventeen

Etienne cursed himself for a fool. His balls throbbed and his cock was about to explode.

Sitting calmly across the table from her, eating and making conversation while she was naked, might have been the hardest thing he’d ever done.

He’d only been able to see her from the waist up, but that was enough to give him a hard-on for a month. Her creamy skin was marred by several gashes. They were healing but were a blight, a reminder of what had happened. Her full breasts had swayed every time she moved, their pink nipples taut and juicy. It had taken all his concentration not to jump over the table and take her down onto the floor and fuck her.

Because she wanted him.

The scent of her arousal had teased him mercilessly while they ate. Scenes from their shower replayed in his brain like a movie. Amy wet and naked and gliding her hands over him. Him stroking her slick skin, soap bubbles sliding over the slope of her breasts, down her torso, and settling in the golden curls on her mound.

His cock jerked and he swallowed back a groan. If they’d made love earlier, concentrating would be easier.

Her eyes widened and her lips parted. “What are you saying?”

What had he been saying? Pull it together. “Fleur is safe. There’s no need for her or her brothers to head to Salvation.”

“Did they say anything to you about it?”

It surprised him that she didn’t jump on the excuse not to go home. “No, but it’s something they have to be considering. I told them the invitation is still open.” He stroked his index finger down the slope of her shoulder. “That doesn’t mean we have to go with them.”

Her brow furrowed and she frowned. “Jacque would have already told my parents I’m coming home.”

“We can call them and explain. Or we can go for a visit and leave again.”

“Don’t you want to go home?”

He searched for the right words. “I love Salvation Pack land. It speaks to my soul. Everyone I love is there. It’s my place.”

Her green eyes clouded. “You’re so sure.”

Taking a risk, he cupped her chin. “Stop running from yourself. Face your family and your doubts. The pack is your strength. I’m your strength. Use us.”

“You make it sound so easy.”

“Not easy. Worthwhile.”

“You’re right.” Heaving a sigh, she lay on her back and stared at the ceiling. “Almost as soon as I left I knew I’d made a mistake.”

“Why didn’t you come home?”

Her lips quirked up. “And admit I was wrong?”

He tapped the center of her forehead. “Always so stubborn.”

“Determined. And if I’d run back home with my tail between my legs, I’d have always wondered if I’d done the right thing. I don’t regret these weeks. I’ve traveled, seen some of the country, met different people, and had some incredible experiences.” She bit her bottom lip. “And some not so incredible experiences. I’m sor—”

He placed his index finger over her lips. “Don’t apologize. Maybe it was fate that led us to

this place. I mean, what are the odds of us running into the Landrys?” He’d given this some thought.

“Maybe I needed to learn I could stand on my own, without the backup of my father and the pack.”

This trip had changed him in ways he never would have imagined. “It’s solidified who I am?”

“And who are you?” She laid her hand over his heart.

“A protector.” Would that be enough for her? “I have no great ambitions to make my mark in the world, to accumulate millions. I’m a simple man. Give me the open woods, a place to put my head at night, a good meal, a way to contribute to the pack, and I’m content. I enjoy the woodworking, using my hands to create. It feeds another part of my soul, but it’s not my life. My purpose is to keep those I love safe.”

“And that’s enough?”

“I could be satisfied with that, but what would make it perfect, what would make me happy, would be to share it with someone special. With you.”

“Etienne.”

“I don’t want or expect an answer tonight.” He wasn’t sure he could handle it if she told him she didn’t want to be with him on a permanent basis. He was worn to the bone—emotionally and physically. His wounds were almost healed, but it took a tremendous amount of energy. The yawn caught him off guard. The sun would be rising soon on another busy day.

“Think about it.” He rolled onto his back and closed his eyes. “Sleep on it. Whatever you decide, I’m with you.” He yearned to kiss every inch of her, to soothe her healing wounds, to delve between her legs to bring her pleasure, to feast on her lips. But he didn’t want her making love to him because she thought she owed him for rescuing her.

Obligation wasn’t love, and he wouldn’t settle for less. He deserved it all. They both did. But that was cold comfort as he lay there, his cock aching, his arms empty. Amy was lying beside him, but she might as well have been a hundred miles away. There was a divide he feared might keep growing, driving them apart.

He curled his fingers into fists to keep from reaching for her. The minutes dragged on. They were both exhausted, but neither of them slept.

The covers rustled as she sidled closer. His shoulders relaxed, the muscles finally unclenching. She poked his arm. Obliging her, he lifted it. She settled her head against his chest. “I’m not the only stubborn one,” she muttered.

Smiling, his breathing evened out and the last of the tension left him. Everything was right in his world.

****

The sun was bright enough to penetrate the closed drapes and lighten the room. Amy was warm and cozy and in no hurry to go anywhere. In spite of all the thoughts racing around her brain, she’d succumbed to sleep.

Lying on a lumpy mattress in a cheap motel, she’d never been more content. It wasn’t the place that made the difference. It was the people. Or rather, person. Hearing him talk about his own life made her look at her situation a little differently. He had a way of doing that.

It was time to go home. She owed apologies to those she loved best. Her actions had hurt them. It hadn’t been her intention. She’d panicked and reacted, something that often got her into trouble.

Her father called her fearless. Not so fearless now.

“You’re thinking too hard.” His voice was deep and sexy and made her toes curl. He ran the backs of his fingers up and down her bare arm and kissed the top of her head.

She closed her eyes and swallowed heavily, moved almost to tears by the simple gesture. He was holding nothing back, giving freely, showing her what she meant to him. He’d always seemed stoic and alone, even amongst the pack, but she knew better. His heart was the biggest of them all, which was why he guarded it so ferociously. That he’d opened it to her was a gift. One she would not take for granted.

“I didn’t mean to wake you.” Now that he had, it was impossible to ignore the obvious—he was aroused. With one leg outside the covers, half his body was bared. The outline of his erection was very visible. Heat radiated from his large body. He smelled delicious—earthy and male. It would be so easy to roll on top of him and take what she needed. Her breasts were swollen, her nipples hard. Her core ached to be filled. Half asleep as he was, he wouldn’t turn her away.

As much as it pained her to admit, he’d been right to insist they not make love last night in the heat of the moment. He deserved her full commitment. This wasn’t a game, not for either of them. Her heart was already tangled up in feelings for him. Her body craved his touch.

She nuzzled his chest and sighed, decision made. “Let’s go home.” It was time to deal with the mess she’d left behind. Only then could she freely commit to him.

“You’re sure?” He stilled for a second, then resumed rubbing her arm. “I don’t want you to have regrets.”

“I already have them. I don’t want to add more.” She forced herself out of the comfort of his embrace and shoved her hair out of her face. Being an adult sucked sometimes, but it was past time she faced the hard things.

“Fair enough.” He pushed upright, and the covers slithered down around his waist. The tip of his erection peeked out. He groaned and caught her chin between his thumb and forefinger, tilting it upward. “Keep looking at me like that and we won’t be going anywhere.”

“That’s not exactly a deterrent.” She was too hot, her skin sensitive to the slightest touch. In the short time they’d been together, she’d explored her sexuality. She’d also come to know his body almost as well as her own.

Dragging herself away, she scooted to the end of the bed and buried her face in her hands.

“Give me a minute.” She was shaking with need. Her wolf was ready to commit.

I love him.

In the end, that’s what it all boiled down to. He’d come for her, even after she’d left him. He’d suppressed his needs in order to give her what she needed. If they were going to mate, it wasn’t going to be in some generic motel.

Even now, he remained still and silent behind her, shoving aside what he needed, supporting her. It was humbling, to say the least.

“Let’s do this.” Shoving off the bed, she strode toward the bathroom. “I’ll be ready in ten minutes.”

Her estimate was only off by a bit. Twenty minutes later, they were packed and the truck was loaded. Leaning against the hood of the vehicle, she tilted her head back, enjoying the sunshine.

Etienne banged his fist against the Landrys’ door. When no one answered, she pushed away from the truck and joined him. He tilted his head to one side and listened. “They’re not in there.” He tried the knob, but the door was locked.

Amy shaded her eyes with her hand and scanned the parking lot. “I don’t see their vehicle. Do you think they’re gone somewhere for lunch?”

“I think they’re gone.”

She dropped her hand. “They left without telling us.” After everything they’d been through,

that hurt.

“Wait here.” He strode to the office. Through the large glass windows, she watched Etienne speak with the clerk. When he exited, he had a frown on his face and an envelope in his hand. “Let’s go.”

Scrambling around to the passenger side of the truck, she climbed in and buckled up. He started the engine and pulled out before handing her the letter. “Clerk said they checked out an hour ago and left this.”

Amy ripped it open and pulled out the single sheet of paper. She scanned to the bottom. “It’s from Luc.” Taking a breath, she began to read. “Thank you for everything you’ve done for us. You did what I failed to do for my family. I’m not sure where we’ll end up. None of us want to go back to a community that didn’t fully support us when we needed it. There’s no way to know if there will be repercussions from what happened last night. The last thing we want to do is bring more trouble your way. Plus, there’s still the little issue with Amy. I’m not sure her family would be as understanding as she is.” Luc didn’t mention Etienne killing Blaine. He also used community instead of pack. Smart in case the desk clerk was nosy.

Etienne shook his head. “He’s not wrong. No way to know how your daddy might react.”

“I hadn’t actually planned on telling him they’d kidnapped me.” When he glanced over and gave her a long look, she sighed. “I hate that you’re right. I have to tell them everything.” It occurred to her that she had known exactly what he meant with his look. They didn’t need words to communicate. It was the same kind of connection her parents shared.

Heartened by the thought, even as she dreaded the idea of sharing all her adventures, she cleared her throat and continued, “After much discussion, we’ve decided to go it on our own, at least for a while. We have your phone number and will stay in contact. We wish you well. If you ever need us, call and we’ll come. We owe you more than we can ever repay.”

She flipped over the page. “Looks like Fleur added a bit on the back. I hope you both find happiness. You deserve it. Thank you for giving me and my brothers a chance at a normal life.”

Sighing, she refolded it and put it back in the envelope. “Do you think they’ll be all right?”

“They have one another, which will help. They’ll eventually need to find a pack if they want to mate, but for now, they’ll rest easier and take the time to figure things out.”

If she was being honest, she’d been looking forward to their presence as a sort of buffer zone.

“Should we call Jacque?”

“We’ll be there in a matter of hours. Might as well wait and explain it all in person.” He put on the indicator and pulled into the drive-thru at a fast food restaurant. “Order what you’d like. I’m not stopping until we’re home.”

****

Etienne prayed he wasn’t making a mistake. The closer they got to home, the tenser Amy became. She sat rigid in her seat, her hands twisting the seat belt across her chest. There was no smile or excited chatter. She was pale, her lips swollen from her having bitten them so much.

The turn-off for their private road was just ahead. He pulled over onto the side of the road and put the truck in park.

“Why are you stopping?”

“Because those are the first words you’ve uttered in the last two hours.” Undoing his seat belt, he turned sideways and took her hand in his. “Chère, everyone loves you. They’ll have questions.

They’re blaming themselves, wondering what they did wrong to make you leave. No one will blame you. They love you,” he repeated. He wanted to yell “I love you,” but it wasn’t the time or place. “I’ll

be beside you the whole time.”

“Promise?”

“I promise.” Hell, there wasn’t anything he wouldn’t do to make her happy. That’s how it was for the males of their pack. They were tough, badass wolves, but when it came to their women, they were all softies.

Her green eyes went glassy with tears, but she shed none. Instead, she pulled herself together and nodded. “Let’s do this.”

As expected, Jacque and Cole were waiting when they pulled into the pack parking lot. The truck hadn’t come to a stop before Cole ripped the door open and dragged his daughter out. Her feet dangling in the air, he held her tight, burying his face in her hair.

The reunion brought a lump to his throat, even as it worried him. Her parents weren’t going to let her out of their sight for months. That could be a problem. Not only for their budding relationship, but if they smothered her too much, the guilt might kill her newfound confidence. Then they’d be back where they started.

Jacque glanced down the road when Etienne climbed out of the truck. “You’re alone.”

“Yes, long story. Figured it was best we tell it all at once.”

Rather than demand an explanation, Jacque studied him and then nodded. “Your parents are at the house with Cherise. I decided to keep the group small until we sorted this out.”

Cole reluctantly put his daughter back on her own two feet. “Your mother is waiting.”

Amy squared her shoulders, but glanced toward him. Leaving Jacque, Etienne went to her side and took her hand. He had no intention of hiding his feelings for her. Cole’s eyes narrowed and his lips thinned, but he said nothing.

His neck tingled as she dragged them down the path to the alpha’s house, warning of a threat.

He suspected Cole would have a lot to say once his daughter wasn’t around. That was fine with him.

He had nothing to hide.

The door of the house slammed open. Cherise bolted down the stairs, tears streaming down her face. “My baby. My baby.”

Amy ran into her momma’s open arms. “I’m so sorry. I’m so sorry.” Both of them were crying now. He hated to see them hurting, but this was the start of healing.

Cherise took her daughter by the shoulders. “It’s okay, baby. I’m just glad you’re home.” She looked at him and mouthed, “Thank you.”

He shook his head, uncomfortable with her thanks.

His father came straight to him, yanked Etienne into his arms, and hugged him tight. “I am glad you are safe. But you are both changed, I think.” He might be slightly taller than his father, but there was no one he respected more, no one stronger … or more astute. Here was a bedrock of love he never took for granted.

Before he could summon an answer, his mother was dragging his face down so she could kiss him. He caught a glimpse of Amy out of the corner of his eye. Her eyes were wild and she was trembling.

He’d made a promise to her. One he would not break.

He pressed a kiss to his mother’s forehead and then headed toward Amy. It wasn’t lost on anyone when she leaned against him and took one of his hands in hers.

Cole’s gaze sharpened. Cherise’s eyes widened, and her hand went to her mouth.

“Let’s go inside.” It wasn’t a suggestion. The alpha had spoken. “We have much to discuss.”

Chapter Eighteen

The jitters in her stomach and the trembling in her limbs settled when Etienne took the seat beside her at the long table, their hands still clasped. It was unsettling that none of the others were here. There was no food or drink offered—something unheard of in their pack. It drove home the seriousness of the situation like nothing else could have. This was more than a reunion. This was her alpha demanding a reckoning.

Her parents sat across from her, her father stoic, her momma casting her worried glances.

Gator and Sylvie sat at the far end of the table. Jacque and Gwen were at the head. Before Jacque could speak, Amy gave Etienne’s hand a squeeze, released it, and stood. “May I speak?”

Jacque nodded and leaned back in his chair with his mate beside him, her hand resting on his arm. “I owe you an apology. I shouldn’t have run off the way I did. I should have been adult enough to look you in the eye and tell you I was leaving. I’m sorry for that.”

Approval gleamed in the alpha’s eyes. He gave a small tilt of his head in encouragement.

“At the time, it seemed like the only option. I panicked.” That was a difficult admission. One she wasn’t proud of.

“Why?” her momma asked. There were dark circles beneath her eyes, a testament to the worry and loss of sleep over the past weeks.

Amy raked her hands through her hair. “I was lost. Still am. You’re all so accomplished, have passions you pursue. I’ve always been the flighty, chatty one who loves shiny objects and flits from thing to thing, never settling.”

“Oh, honey, that’s not true.” All the color leached from Cherise’s face.

“Doesn’t matter what we believe.” Her daddy met her gaze as he patted his mate’s hand.

“Only what she does.” Familiar green eyes, the same color as the ones she saw when she looked in the mirror, darkened. “I’m sorry.”

Amy swallowed back tears, shocked to the core of her being. Her daddy had never apologized to her before. He’d never had to. He’d always been infallible, her hero. “Daddy,” she began, but he shook his head, silencing her.

“It’s our job to instill confidence in you. We failed.” He bowed his head and rubbed his hand over the back of his neck. For the first time in her life, she saw him not only as her daddy but as a man, one who did the best he could. It was the same for her momma. It was strange to see your parents as individuals, apart from the role they played in your life.

It was a sign she was no longer a child.

Her own petty concerns seemed trivial when she considered what she’d put them through. She went around the table and wrapped her arms around them both. “You are the best parents in the world.

This is on me, not you.”

They hugged her tight, loving her without restraint, not withholding their affection, even after everything she’d put them through. “I promise I’ll never do anything like that again.” Her voice was hoarse with unshed tears. She hated that she’d hurt them. Would have to live with that for the rest of her life.

She sought Etienne and found him watching. The corners of his lips tilted up slightly, and he gave her a nod. Warmth spread through her chest. She didn’t need his approval, but his support meant the world.

When her parents finally let go, her daddy patted the chair beside him. She would have preferred to go back to her original seat, but her parents needed her close. He caught her reluctance,

and his eyes narrowed. He looked across at Etienne, a muscle working in his jaw. “Did you have anything to do with my daughter running away?”

Gator stirred at the end of the table, sending a pulse of deadly energy through the room. Sylvie sat forward in her seat, glancing at her son in concern.

“Daddy, he didn’t have anything to do with my decision.” No way was she allowing him to take the blame for her actions.

“Not intentionally.” Etienne met her daddy’s gaze, seemingly unconcerned by the growing tension.

Most people ran when Cole Blanchard glared at them. Amy wanted to groan and bang her head against the table.

“You care to explain that?” The question ended on a low growl.

“While I have great respect for you and Amy’s momma, what’s between us is just that, between us. I love your daughter. I would cut off my hand before I harmed her, would die for her. I want to mate with her, but that’s her decision.”

Was he out of his freaking mind? She was trying to defuse tensions, not ramp them up.

Couldn’t he let her ease into things?

“And when did this sudden revelation happen?” Cole demanded.

“It happened before I left.” Time to take charge before the two men she loved the most in the world ended up in a brutal fight. Neither of them was backing down. “He kissed me. It changed how I saw him, how I saw myself. He’s a force of nature.” When Etienne frowned, she pointed her finger at him. “It’s true and you know it. It would be easy to get swept away and end up in a life without actually choosing it. I didn’t fear he’d pressure me into anything. I feared I’d give in because it was the easiest thing to do. And that wouldn’t have been fair to either of us.”

How did she make them understand? “All of you faced challenges in your lives, were tested.

I’ve heard bits and pieces of stories over the years, even if I don’t know all of it.”

“Which is why we never wanted that for you.” Her momma rubbed her arm. “Baby, all we ever wanted was for you to be happy.”

“I am. I was.” She huffed out a breath. “I’m not explaining this well. How can I understand who I am, what I’m made of, if I’ve never had to find out. My life has been wonderful and idyllic, but it has also been insular and sheltered. I was never on my own for more than a few hours until I left. It forced me to grow up, to rely on myself, to discover my strengths.”

“Did you find them?” her momma asked.

She gave a watery laugh. “I’m still figuring it out. Someone told me I need to try looking at things in a different way.” She smiled at Etienne. “It might not be easy, but it is worthwhile.”

Jacque cleared his throat. “Let’s table that discussion for now. I want to know why you turned up without guests.”

****

Etienne wished Amy was beside him, but it wasn’t her place. Not yet. Not until she fully committed to their relationship. He’d shocked her by laying out his intentions, but that was the best way, the only way if he wanted the others to respect him, if he didn’t want to lose his own self-respect.

“Amy was working at a bar in Tennessee,” he began. He told them about meeting the Landry brothers, about the run-in with the humans, with Amy interjecting and adding to the finer details. He braced before he dropped the next bombshell. “Then she was kidnapped.”

“What?” Cole didn’t yell or jump out of his chair. No, his voice lowered and deepened. All

the fine hairs on Etienne’s body rose on end. This was one of the deadliest wolves in the world, and he was supremely pissed off. “And you were going to bring them here?”

“They didn’t hurt me, Daddy.” Amy tugged on her father’s arm. “They thought they were saving me.” She pointed at Etienne. “From him. They were on the run because a male wanted to mate with their sister and wouldn’t take no for an answer. They thought I was lying when I told them it wasn’t like that with Etienne. They thought I was too afraid to say anything.”

“For fuck’s sake.” Jacque leaned forward, planting his hands on the table. “Why didn’t they kill him? Why didn’t their alpha handle the situation?”

“It’s complicated,” Etienne told him. “There were already strained relations between the two packs, one of which is the Louisiana Pack.” The pack they shared a long, dark history with.

“Of course, it is,” Jacque muttered. If life had turned out differently, he’d have been alpha of that pack.

“Their alpha wouldn’t take action until his pack member actually did something. The Landrys’

alpha was old and refused to do anything until Fleur was actually attacked. Not wanting to cause a war, the Landrys fled.”

“So, what changed?” Jacque sat back. “Why are you here without them?”

This was where the situation could explode. “This male tracked down the Landrys. Unable to get to Fleur, he decided he’d take Amy.”

“No!” Cherise gasped and grabbed her daughter, clutching her tight.

Cole rose to his feet, towering over them all. “Where were you when he took her?”

Etienne stood, more than ready to face the accusation. “I’d gone to the diner for food. When I realized she was gone, I went after them.” His heart was thundering, not out of fear of Cole, but out of his remembered terror when he thought he might have lost Amy forever. “He won’t be bothering anyone again.” The finality of his statement left no room for question.

Etienne’s mother began to cry. His father swore and stalked around the table and pulled him into his arms. “I’m sorry you were forced to do that, but I’m proud of you, son.”

He swallowed heavily, not wanting to talk about it. “It’s over. It’s done. I handled it.”

A deep growl rumbled up from Cole’s chest. Amy jumped to her feet and grabbed her daddy’s arm. “He killed for me. He was ready to die for me. None of this is his fault. If anyone is to blame, it’s me.”

“Non.” Gator shook his head. “It is the fault of the male who died. The world is not always a kind place, chère. I’m sorry you and my son had to find that out.”

Sylvie Rollins stood on Etienne’s other side with her arm around his waist. Both his parents understood all too well how cruel the world and other wolves could be. Their pride and support meant everything to him, but Amy’s defense of him gave him hope for the future.

Cole lifted Amy into his arms. “I am only sorry I was not the one to kill the bastard who laid hands on you.”

“I fought, just as you taught me.” She patted her daddy’s shoulder. “I held him off until Etienne arrived.”

She didn’t tell them she’d been hurt. That was her choice, but her folks likely suspected. Cole met his gaze and gave a curt nod. The knot in Etienne’s stomach eased. He liked and respected Amy’s father. It would have hurt to be at odds with him.

Jacque rapped his knuckles against the table. “Is there anything else I should know?”

Etienne reluctantly pulled his gaze away from Amy, his arms aching to hold her. The divide between them seemed wider than a table’s width. “I gave the Landrys the pack phone number. I told

them they were welcome to come with us, but they were gone when we went to get them this morning.

They left a note with the desk clerk.” He glanced at Cole. “They weren’t so certain of their welcome.

With the threat gone, they took off on their own. I doubt they’re heading home. The trust in their pack has been broken. They’re decent people, but they weren’t raised the way we were.” He gave thanks every single day for the life he’d been blessed with.

“Good enough. If they contact us in the future, we’ll decide what is to be done.” Jacque gave that promise to Cole, who nodded. “Amy, if you plan on leaving again, tell us first.”

“I will. I promise.” She bit her lower lip, practically in tears.

Jacque sighed and opened his arms. Amy stumbled into them, needing the acceptance of the alpha. They were human, but they were still wolves on many levels. “You will never lose your place here, little one, but I don’t need any more gray hairs. Now,” he continued, “we eat and celebrate your return.” He pressed his lips to the top of her head. “We missed you. You bring more to this pack than you know. I’m sorry I never told you. I shouldn’t have assumed you understood your worth.”

The tears rolling down her cheeks were killing him. Swearing under his breath, Etienne risked Cole’s wrath and went to her. The alpha cocked one eyebrow but released her. Everything in his world clicked into place when she wrapped her arms around his waist and rested her head against his chest.

“Everything will work itself out.” He kissed her temple.

“You keep saying that.” She gave a small laugh.

“Have I lied?”

She shook her head, her nose rubbing against his shirt.

“Give yourself time. Give us time.” The others faded into the background. The only one who mattered right now was Amy.

“I promise.” It was an echo of what he’d said to her earlier, and it lightened his heart.

“That’s all I can ask.”

Jacque cleared his throat. “You both need to go home and get settled. Gator and the women have been cooking all morning, and everyone is waiting to welcome you home.”

Home. That’s what this pack and this land had always been to him. Now it meant something totally different. Now it was Amy. All he had to do was win her.

****

“I’ll leave you three to talk.” Gwen kissed his cheek. “I’ll help with the preparations for dinner.” When Jacque only stared, she laughed and lightly smacked his arm. “I can fetch and carry with the best of them.” His mate wasn’t known for her cooking skills, but he wouldn’t have her any other way.

“Thank you, chère.” Her unwavering support and love had gotten him through many hard times.

She patted Cole on the shoulder and gave Gator a hug on her way out the door. Etienne and Amy left with their mothers a few minutes ago, leaving the three males at the table.

“You are angry.” Jacque ignored Cole’s glare. “You have every right to be, but if you don’t let it go, you may lose Amy again.”

Hands fisted on the table, he shook his head. “It would kill Cherise.”

It would kill his friend. For all his huge size and fearsome demeanor, Cole Blanchard had a huge heart. Cherise and Amy were his entire world.

“I understand what you are feeling, my friend. You think I don’t wish this male was alive so I could kill him for laying hands on your daughter, on my pack member?” Such a thing should never

happen, but it all too frequently did. “Amy chose to leave. It has been good for her.”

Cole slammed his fists down on the table. A huge crack was followed by the collapse of the thick wooden top.

Sighing, Jacque shook his head at the shattered furniture. Best to look at the bright side. Gwen had been mentioning she’d like a bigger table. Skirting the debris, he went to his friend. “You misunderstand. I would have wished none of this for her. I don’t want any of our children to leave, but if we cling too tightly, they might flee and never return.”

Cole buried his face in his hands, his big body shaking. This male had stood beside him in battle many times. He was fearless when he fought. His only weakness was those he loved.

He raked his fingers through his thick blond hair. “How can I protect her if she’s not here?”

“You can’t.” The truth wasn’t always kind. “She’s more confident, more introspective than she was before she left.”

“Her light has been extinguished.”

“Non.” Jacque shook his head. “Only dimmed. It will come back.” He needed to take a closer look at all the younger pack members, especially his sons. Amy couldn’t be the only one feeling uncertain about the future. He put his hands on his friend’s shoulders. “We will make it so.”

The two men hugged and pounded each other on the back. It was a promise not only from alpha to pack member but from friend to friend.

“You have been quiet.” Gator was still seated, arms crossed over his chest. This pack member was the most unpredictable. He came across as affable, but beneath the outer veneer lived the deadliest wolf Jacque had ever known. Cole was the biggest, but Gator was the meanest.

“Our children are children no more. Killing changes a man.” He held up his hands and stared at them. “There are days I can see the blood, but I have no regrets. I killed only those in need of killing. My son is now one of us.”

“Yes.” They all had blood on their hands, had fought and killed to protect their pack and loved ones from all outside threats. “I’m sorry, my friend.”

Gator shook his head. “You both taught him well. All of us trained him and Amy. That diligence helped them survive.” He pushed to his feet and gave Cole a sly grin. “And it is not all bad.

There is heat between Etienne and Amy.”

Cole buried his face in his hands again. “Don’t say it. Don’t think it.”

Gator laughed and slapped the big man on the back. “Did you think she would remain unmated forever?”

“Yes,” he insisted. Then he shook his head. “No, but I don’t like it.”

“My son not good enough for you?”

A muscle flexed in Cole’s jaw. “No one is good enough for my little girl, but if she has to pick someone, your son is not a bad choice.” Sighing, he shook his head. “I’m sorry for what Etienne was forced to do.”

“Life is what it is.” Gator shrugged. “They are alive and safely home. It’s time to celebrate.”

Jacque agreed. “All is as it should be.”

Chapter Nineteen

Etienne was slowly losing his mind. They’d been home for a week—seven long days and seven lonely, never-ending nights. He wasn’t sleeping. How could he when his arms were empty. In a short span of time, he’d gotten used to sleeping with Amy snuggled up next to him.

It wasn’t that they didn’t see each other. They did. Several times a day at meals and pack functions, but there’d been little to no time alone. Stolen kisses weren’t going to cut it much longer.

They were adults, not kids.

Both of them were walking on eggshells around their parents, giving them time to come to terms with everything that had happened. For the first time in his life, he felt out of step with life here.

It bothered him.

But not having Amy in his bed as his mate was driving him crazy. It was past time they talked.

With that goal in mind, he set out to find her. Half an hour later, he was frustrated and a little worried.

Her momma had told him she’d gone to the workshop with her father. Cole had told him she’d gone to sew with the women. She wasn’t with them either, and they hadn’t seen her. He’d managed to act casual so no one suspected there was anything wrong.

She hadn’t run. She’d promised she wouldn’t. That was the only thing allowing him to hold it together.

His wolf was restless. Needing to run off some of the excess energy, he took off his clothes and set them under a tree. Raising his arms to the sky, he stretched and shifted, embracing the change.

Bones cracked and reformed. Fur replaced bare skin. Dropping to all fours, he lowered his head and silently loped back to Amy’s home, circling until he picked up her scent.

Then he began to hunt.

It was only mid-morning, but it was already hot. The slight breeze and the shade from the trees made for a pleasant run. Usually, he’d have enjoyed every second. Today, he was totally focused on his prey.

Why had she taken off on her own? Was she feeling hemmed in again?

He paused, swiveled his head, ears twitching and nose raised. When he caught her scent, he switched directions, loping off to the right. He found her sitting on an outcropping of flat stones that overlooked the valley below. All of it was pack land.

She sat naked, her long blonde hair streaming down her back. Her legs were bent, and her arms were wrapped around her lower legs. His breath caught in his throat. The sheer beauty of her was breathtaking. She could be a fairy queen looking out over her realm. Even in full sunlight, she was ethereal, as though she might slip away, vanishing into thin air.

No man would ever be able to claim Amy Blanchard. She either gave herself freely or not at all.

The sense of her slipping out of reach sent a bolt of fear rocketing through him. He hesitated, not sure if he should join her or slip away before she became aware of his presence. She’d come here to be alone, and he was intruding.

“I know you’re there.” There was no accusation, only acceptance. She turned her head, looking straight at him. It wasn’t surprising she’d sensed him. They’d become attuned to each other these past days.

He padded over to her side and sat, remaining in wolf form, letting her know there was no pressure if she didn’t want to talk. Loving someone was hard. He wanted to fix all her problems, smooth away all the ruts in the road ahead of her.

That wasn’t what she wanted. That was what she’d had her entire life. She needed to discover her strengths, to forge a new path through uncharted wilderness. All he wanted was a chance to be by her side and support her.

He sat so his shoulder brushed hers. Sighing, she slung her arm around his furry body and rested her head against him. “It’s been impossible to get time alone.”

He swallowed back the burning need inside himself and went to stand, to give her the time and privacy she craved. Her arm tightened around him. “Don’t go. I’ve been spending all my time with my parents and the pack. I hurt a lot of people when I left.” She rubbed her nose against his fur.

“I hurt you.”

He gave a low growl and gently butted her chin with his head.

“It’s true. You can’t deny it.”

Taking this as a sign she wanted to talk, he shifted. To hide his arousal, he sat as she did, arms wrapped around his legs, the heavy muscles in his shoulders bunched and taut. “All I want is for you to be happy. That’s all any of us want.”

“I know that.” When a breeze blew several strands of hair into her eyes, she shoved them aside. “The guilt is crushing me. I’m aware of how ungrateful I must seem and I’m not. I’m so lucky to have all the support and love that I do.”

I’m losing her. It was like a fist to the gut. “What will you do?”

“I’ve been doing a lot of thinking. I haven’t slept much. Lying awake at night, I’ve done what you suggested and tried to look at my life and skills from another perspective.”

There were dark circles under her eyes, and she looked thinner. She couldn’t go on like this.

Neither of them could.

He reached out and pulled her into his arms so she was sitting on his lap, facing him. There was no hiding his erection, but it wasn’t anything she hadn’t seen before. He was past hiding his feelings for her.

She didn’t try to get away. No, she draped her arms around his neck and rested her head on his shoulder and sighed. “I’ve missed you.”

The lump in his throat almost choked him. “I missed you, too.” Sighing, he ran his hand up and down her spine. “I haven’t been sleeping either.”

“We’re not getting any time together, are we?”

“We’re together now.” And he was determined to make the most of it. “The thing you need to remember is you don’t need to figure this all out today or tomorrow. Life is an ongoing process, a journey. The destination is death, so there’s no rush.”

She straightened and smiled at him. “That’s one way of looking at it.”

Her smile encouraged him, so he kept going. There was no telling when they might be alone again. “You’re stubborn and determined enough to be good at whatever you try. You don’t give up.”

“I ran away.”

“When things weren’t working, you tried something different.” He hesitated but forged onward. “I was the catalyst for you leaving. What happened between us pushed you to go. Your world was shaken, and it left you floundering.”

“I didn’t handle it well.”

He hated that she was being so hard on herself. “So what?” That startled her and put a frown on her face. “You’re not perfect. No one expects you to be perfect.”

“That’s not how it feels.” Her eyes took on a faraway expression. “Sweet Amy. Helpful Amy.

Perfect Amy. I’ve heard those terms my entire life. It comes with a lot of pressure.”

That shook him to his core. “You’re right.” He said the words slowly, trying to imagine the pressure that she’d been under.

“And how could I complain? I love my family and pack, but it gets so damn tiring sometimes trying to live up to the expectations they all have for me.”

“Ah, chère. I don’t need you to be any particular way. You can yell and scream and run if you want. As long as I can be with you, I’ll be happy. If that means we leave and start over somewhere else, either temporarily or forever, that’s what we’ll do.”

“But you love it here.” The quiver in her voice almost broke him.

He took her hand and laid it over his heart. “I can live without the land. I can’t live without my heart. And you, Amy Blanchard, are my heart. There is no other woman for me.”

With the sun beating down on their bare bodies, he laid his soul bare and told her what was in his heart. There would be no lies, nothing hidden between them.

With his heart thudding against her palm, she stared into his eyes, seeking, searching.

On a ragged cry, she threw herself forward, toppling him backward. With her long, lean body spread over his like a blanket, she caught his lips with hers.

****

Every cell inside her was alive and joyous. She hadn’t truly understood how much she’d missed Etienne until he’d joined her. Her body was starved for his touch. Her soul cried out for his.

When he was with her, no problem was insurmountable.

When their lips touched, all the stress of the past week melted away. This was where she was meant to be. Maybe she hadn’t figured everything out yet, but this much was sure. She loved Etienne Rollins.

Like a lock clicking, the admission set her free and sent her soaring.

Their tongues tangled in celebration. His big, hard hands skated up and down her spine before cupping her behind and pressing her against his erection. An answering throbbing began between her legs. Her nipples rubbed against his chest, sending ribbons of heat dancing throughout her.

She peppered his beloved face with kisses. “You’re the only one who truly sees me.” That was a gift beyond price.

His hand cupped the back of her neck. “I see you and I love every part of you, even the stubborn parts.”

Laughter bubbled up and spilled out of her lips. “As I’ve told you before, you’re one to talk.”

Blue eyes twinkling, he gave her a wicked grin. “I’ve never denied it, but you can handle me.”

His unshakable faith buoyed her, allowed her to see herself in a different light. “I don’t want to change you either.” It needed to be said. “We both have flaws.”

“Everyone does. That’s what makes us who we are, along with our strengths. I don’t want perfect. I want a partner.” He cupped her breasts and squeezed, making her moan. “Someone stubborn enough to stand beside me, come what may.”

“You make me believe anything is possible.” She ran her fingers through his thick black hair, loving the caress of the silky strands.

“Together there isn’t anything we can’t do. God, Amy, I’ve missed you. Let me love you.”

“Yes.” She feasted on his lips, starved for the taste of him. It seemed like years, not days, since they’d made love. Their tongues tangled. Their breath mingled. She waited for him to take control, but he continued to touch and caress every inch of her until she was hot enough to burst into flames.

She rubbed her mound over his shaft, stimulating her clit until she was moaning and gasping.

She was so close, but it wasn’t enough. It would never be enough.

Like a lightning bolt, it struck her that he was waiting for her to decide how this would go.

They could make love or they could mate. It was up to her. His support was unshakable. His belief in her unending.

Love for him burst through her like the sun blazing to life over the horizon at dawn. This was what mattered the most—the love and connection between them. Everything else was details.

Whatever she decided to do, or not do, he’d be beside her all the way. And she wanted the honor of doing the same for him in return. He claimed she brought light and laughter to his life. She’d give him that and so much more.

Planting her hands on his shoulders, she pushed upright. They were breathing heavily and sweaty, both from the warmth of the sun and the heat generated between them whenever they came together.

“What’s wrong, sweetheart?”

The endearment settled into her heart for now and always. Rather than answer, she climbed off him and went onto her hands and knees beside him. Tossing her hair over her shoulder, she smiled.

“What are you waiting for?”

The raw hunger etched on his face was almost more than she could bear. His throat rippled when he swallowed. “Are you sure?” His voice was hoarse and low.

“Mate with me.” The words were barely out of her mouth when he was behind her, the head of his cock nudging at her opening. She was wet and ready. Inside, her wolf howled with happiness.

There was no fear, only expectation.

“I love you,” he said as he pushed inward, past the slight resistance, until he was seated to the hilt. She sighed in relief, her body accepting him as easily as her heart already had. His big hands came down beside hers, his torso covering her back. She didn’t feel trapped, but sheltered.

Then he began to thrust. She pushed back against him with each stroke. They rocked in rhythm, their bodies in perfect harmony. Every muscle in her body tensed. Her orgasm hovered just out of reach.

“Etienne.” She squeezed her eyes shut, blocking out the world around her. There was nothing else but the heat of the sun, the light kiss of the wind, and the exquisite sensation of his cock powering in and out of her. Her sex contracted. When he kissed her upper shoulder, she tilted her head to one side, bracing for what was coming next.

His breath was hot on her skin. Sharp fangs scraped the curve of her neck, sending goosebumps racing down her arm. He struck fast, sinking his teeth into her skin. Rather than hurt, it sent a jolt of pure pleasure careening through her. Her sex clenched. She threw her head back and cried out as she orgasmed. He bucked against her, and she felt the flood of his release.

It was done.

He withdrew his fangs and lapped at the mating mark. It was permanent, would never fade.

They were partners from this moment forward. Her shaky arms gave out and she collapsed forward, but she didn’t end up facedown on the rocky ledge. He caught her and rolled them to the side so his arm cushioned her head. His shaft was locked inside her, pulsing and sending mini orgasms through her.

“I love you.” It was past time she told him.

His big body shuddered, and he buried his face against her hair. “Thank you for becoming my mate, for becoming mine.”

“You’re mine, too,” she reminded him.

“It’s all I ever wanted.” He licked the mating mark. It was sensitive and sent shivers down her spine.

“Proud of yourself, are you?”

His low laugh made her nipples tighten. “I’m a wolf who pursued his prey and caught her.” He carefully withdrew, rolled onto his back, and took her with him so she was comfortably lying on top of him.

“Hmmm, who’s to say I’m the one who didn’t catch you.”

His eyes widened, and then his laughter boomed out across the valley. He looked younger and happier than she’d ever seen him. “I’m glad we caught each other.” He rubbed his hand over her behind and squeezed. “As much as I’d like to stay here, there’s a good chance there might be others already looking for us.”

She rubbed her nose against his and sighed. “As much as I hate to leave, you’re right. We do not want my father to find us like this.” She pushed up and off him and rolled her shoulders. “I don’t think it will come as a shock to anyone, but we need to tell our parents and Jacque.” A thought occurred to her. “Where will we live?” It would have to be with his folks or hers.

“As long as we’re together, I don’t care.” He sprawled across the rock, sweaty and naked and looking better than any man had a right to. “Scratch that. We’re staying with my folks.”

“Why?”

“I’m not making love to Cole Blanchard’s baby girl with him down the hallway.” He rolled up and kissed her shoulder. “I’d like to make it to our first anniversary.”

“He’s not that bad.” When Etienne only stared, she giggled. “Okay, maybe he is, but momma will help.” They wanted her happy, and that meant being mated to Etienne. Her daddy would adjust.

He got to his feet and held out his hand. When he pulled her up to stand next to him, he draped one arm around her. “Whether we stay here or not, this will always be our home, the special place where you became my mate.”

Tears pricked her eyes. This place was very special. “Let’s try it here and see what happens.”

Being mated to Etienne, she was more settled, more sure of herself. She’d been running from the intense feelings he’d stirred up in her, but no more. Now she embraced them and used them to fire her confidence. Now that she’d faced the future with him, there wasn’t anything she couldn’t do.

“Let’s go home.” He kissed her temple and shifted. The big black wolf waited patiently beside her.

Wanting to run and play and celebrate with the rest of the pack, she shifted and rubbed her muzzle against his and then took off with him behind her.

Epilogue

“I can still kill him.” Her daddy stood beside her, glaring at her mate. Sensing someone watching him, Etienne turned to them and gave a wave and went back to talking with Amy’s momma.

“I love him, Daddy.” He wouldn’t really kill Etienne. He might think about it, but he wouldn’t do it. It wasn’t that he didn’t like her mate. As he’d told them, “No one is good enough for my girl, but if she has to mate, it might as well be the son of my best friend.” For Cole Blanchard, that was a glowing recommendation.

It helped that her momma loved Etienne, too. When it came down to it, all her daddy wanted was for his “girls” to be happy.

The party was in full swing, the entire pack out to celebrate. Nicholas LaForge, the alpha’s son and one of her best friends, after Etienne, pulled her into a hug, swinging her off her feet. “I get to kiss the bride.” He planted one on her cheek before setting her back down.

“My turn.” Aaron, Nicholas’s younger brother, was right behind him.

“Making time with my girl.” Etienne growled, his arm banding around her from behind, holding her close. The possessiveness wasn’t unexpected—they were wolves, after all—but it did make her want to roll her eyes.

“We know better.” Nicholas laughed, but his eyes weren’t smiling. To Amy, he looked sad.

“Is everything okay?” She touched his shoulder.

“I’m happy for you both. I’m going to go talk to my folks.” He left them and went over to where Jacque and Gwen were talking with his uncle Louis without really answering her question.

Aaron had already drifted off to join another group.

“Are you happy?” Etienne whispered in her ear before he nuzzled her neck. The man couldn’t seem to stop touching her mating mark, which was unfortunate in mixed company because it was such a sensitive spot.

She nodded and bit back a moan. “You need to stop that.”

“Stop what?” He rubbed his thumb over the mark.

“My daddy already wants to kill you. Don’t give him an excuse.” Etienne’s thumb paused.

Then his chest began to shake. “It’s no laughing matter,” she assured him. “He was at least half serious, maybe more.”

Etienne spun her around so she was facing him. “It’s nothing less than I’d expect. He loves you and your momma. But no one loves you like I do.”

Her heart fluttered and her sex began to pulse. “Is it too soon to sneak away?” Everyone would notice they were missing and know why, but she was past caring.

“Your wish is my command.” He scooped her into his arms and announced, “Good night, everyone. Thanks for the party. We’ll talk to you tomorrow.”

Groaning, she buried her face in his neck. “You did not just do that. I was trying not to be noticed.”

“We’ve got nothing to hide.” As he carried her away, she peeked toward her family and friends. They were all smiling, except for her daddy. He was frowning, but her momma was laughing, so everything would be okay. All he needed was time to get used to the idea his little girl was a mated woman.

The moon lit their way as they wound through the path on the way to the Rollins’s home.

They’d live there until they could build their own place. She hadn’t even had a chance to move in any of her belongings yet. Everything had happened so fast.

“Pull the door open.” He waited until she eased the screen door back. His bedroom opened up onto the deck so he could come and go as he pleased without bothering his folks.

She thought he’d set her down on the bed and make love to her, but he sat on the end of the mattress with her cradled in his arms. “What is it?” she asked. “Regrets?” She didn’t think that was it.

“Never.” He pressed a kiss against her temple. “I don’t want you to feel rushed. You left because you had questions about your life.”

Resting against him, she touched his cheek. “I’ve decided not to worry about it. I have skills. I can contribute.” She let her hand fall back to her lap and linked her fingers together. “I did a lot of thinking about what you said, about looking at my strengths in a different way. I pulled out a bunch of old projects from the trunk my momma kept in the storage closet. I swear she’s saved almost every drawing I’ve ever done.”

“She loves you.” Such simple words, but in the end, the only ones that mattered.

“I have some ideas about how I may combine my love of drawing and storytelling, but that’s for another day. It’s my mating night. I don’t want to talk any longer.” Sliding her hand around to the back of his neck, she dragged him down. The kiss was hot enough to melt her panties. Somehow he maneuvered them back onto the bed without breaking contact.

When she was breathless, he eased back and smiled down at her. “We have a lifetime to figure it out.”

Smiling, her heart filled with love, she pulled him back down. They had a lifetime to look forward to, but tonight had only begun.

****

With mixed emotions, Nicholas LaForge watched his friends leave. He loved them both and was glad they’d found happiness together. He was also jealous of them. The emotion was dark and ugly and he wasn’t proud of it, but their happiness shone a spotlight on the restlessness that had plagued him these past months.

He waited patiently as the evening wound down and everyone had gone home, leaving only his brother and parents.

“What’s on your mind?” Nothing got past Jacque LaForge. He was the most astute man Nicholas had ever met. All his life, he’d looked up to the man, who’d managed to straddle the line between father and alpha with ease. He hated the thought he might disappoint him.

Taking a deep breath, he put words to an idea that had been brewing for quite some time. “I need to leave.”

The End

www.njwalters.com

Find more books by N.J. Walters:

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Not His Mate by Jade Marshall

Mated to Her Bully by Sam Crescent

Alternative Destiny by Allyson Young

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BONUS SAMPLE CHAPTER

RESCUING RORY

Marks Mercenaries, 1

N.J. Walters

Copyright © 2019

Sample Chapter

“This is going to be a major clusterfuck. There’s no quiet way to do this.”

Even though his brother’s thoughts echoed his own, Kal Marks didn’t spare Garth so much as a glance. No, his gaze locked solidly on the woman currently dancing in one of the gilded cages that hung from the ceiling here in the largest club on the pleasure ship Exos. The flashing blue spotlight made her smooth white skin look the same color, giving her an exotic appearance.

Her long, blonde hair hung down her chest, covering her breasts, much to the dismay of the customers around her, and the skimpy thong barely covered her mound as she dipped and swayed to the pounding music. If anything, the tiny strip of cloth accentuated her nakedness, which was no doubt its purpose. She didn’t look at any of the patrons, keeping her eyes trained on the far wall.

“Are you listening to me?” Garth asked, practically yelling to be heard over the noise.

Impatience tinged his voice.

Kal forced himself to turn away and focus on his brother. “I hear you, but we don’t have a choice.” They had to talk to the woman, the dancing vision.

“You sure the information is good?”

Now that was a question, wasn’t it? Digger wasn’t exactly known for his honesty, but he traded in information, and he knew the Marks brothers were always buying when it came to intel on the whereabouts of their missing sister. He also knew better than to lie to them.

“Digger is too scared of Flynn to risk feeding us bad info,” Kal pointed out. Flynn was the oldest of the four brothers, massively tall and mean as a snake. It was well known throughout the Alliance galaxies that the only people Flynn cared about were his brothers.

Cross one of the Marks brothers and you crossed them all.

“I still don’t like it,” Garth muttered.

“Noted.” Kal let his gaze drift over the room, observing the positions of all the guards. There were quite a few of them, as things could get rowdy on the Exos. In fact, Kal was counting on just that.

The music pumping through the sound system was low and rhythmic. That, combined with the mostly naked women dancing around them, was designed to get men in the mood so they’d pay the money to visit the back rooms where women waited to service them. This far out in space the floating

pleasure ship contained the only women many of these men would see for months.

Kal looked at his brother and noted his scowl. Garth’s thoughts mirrored his own. What if their sister were aboard a ship like this? Most of the women weren’t here by choice. Usually the brothers would never set foot on a ship like the Exos, but when it came to intel about their sister, they’d go straight into the bowels of hell itself.

“She’s got the tattoo Digger told us about.” Garth studied the dancer now, his gaze tracing the long length of her legs. Kal was filled with the sudden urge to punch his brother in the face.

He rolled his shoulders and forced himself to lean back in his chair and act as if he were enjoying the show. And it wasn’t much of an act. The woman wasn’t really dancing, more sensually undulating to a rhythm far different from the music filling the room. He caught his breath when her hair slid to the side, exposing one perfectly shaped plump breast for a split second before her hair covered it again.

Kal’s dick sprang to life, and he shifted to get more comfortable. No doubt about it, she was beautiful. There was something almost … innocent about her. Yeah, that was it. Impossible considering where she was. No one aboard this floating pleasure barge was innocent. Even if they started out that way, it didn’t last for long.

He fought to bring his body under control, feeling like a jerk for getting aroused. He knew a good percentage of the women here had been bought from slavers. His fingers tightened into fists.

There was nothing he hated more than slavers. Those low-life bastards all deserved to be shot out into deep space without a protective suit.

If he could, he’d rescue all the women here. That just wasn’t possible, but he could rescue one. He let his eyes drift over her right arm. The tattoo on the woman was an unusual one, a stylized pattern of flowers that covered her left shoulder and ran all the way down her arm to her hand. There was no missing it. At the very bottom, a thorny vine wrapped around her wrist. Exactly as Digger had described.

“So how are we doing this?” Garth asked.

Kal rubbed a hand across his scruffy chin. He hadn’t bothered shaving in a few days, and it added to his disreputable appearance. The jagged scar on his left cheek didn’t hurt either. Both he and his brother were wearing the drab shirt and pants that labeled them as laborers from the planet below.

But beneath them, both of them wore battlesuits, body armor that was practically indestructible while being totally lightweight. That kind of protection didn’t come cheap, but all the brothers owned a suit.

“You create a diversion, and I’ll get the girl. As soon as I’ve got her, we make a run for the ship.” It wasn’t much of a plan, but Kal and his brother had worked with worse.

Garth stood and hitched up his pants. At six-one, he was the shortest of the brothers, but he was the widest, and not because there was an ounce of fat on him anywhere. No, Garth was built like a bull, thick and muscular, and always ready for a fight.

“One diversion coming up.” He swiped up his drink and weaved his way toward a table filled with miners. They were a rough and rowdy lot and were known not to tolerate outsiders.

Kal shook his head. His brother was crazy. But then again, the same could be said about all of them. Garth pretended to be drunk when Kal knew he hadn’t so much as taken a sip of his drink.

Neither of them had. No telling what was in the rotgut they served aboard this ship.

Garth was almost on top of the men now. “Harcon, old buddy. Haven’t seen you for a while.”

He held his arms wide open as if he were going to hug one of them men.

“Piss off,” the man growled. “You got the wrong guy.”

Kal stood and slowly began to meander toward the cage containing the woman they needed to

talk with. He didn’t hear the next thing the miner said to his brother, but he heard Garth’s reply.

“No need to be so unfriendly.” Garth waved his arms wide and spilled his drink over two of the other men seated at the table. “Whoops. Sorry about that.”

Kal bit his bottom lip to keep from smiling. Garth was enjoying himself just a little too much.

Kal was right next to the cage when one of the miners slammed his fist into Garth’s jaw. Kal winced and not for his brother. It was well known that Garth’s jaw was as hard as granite. The blow didn’t even knock his brother back an inch. Instead Garth shook his head, roared his displeasure, and rammed his fist into the miner’s gut. The man dropped like a stone, and the fight was on.

The guards hurried toward the combatants before things got too out of hand. Kal turned his attention to the woman in the cage. Like the rest of the crowd, she was watching the fight.

He reached into his pocket, withdrew a thin metal box, and attached it to the lock. The device ran through the sequence of possible combinations faster than the speed of light. In ten seconds flat, he had the door to the gilded cage open.

The woman gasped and jerked away from him when his hand touched her calf. Her amazing blue eyes widened when she realized the door to her prison was open.

“If you want to get away from here, come with me.” Kal gave a quick look over his shoulder, wincing when Garth picked up a man and launched him at another table. The table didn’t survive. Kal wasn’t sure the man would either, not without extensive medical attention.

This was quickly getting ugly. “Make up your mind. We’ve got to go. Now.”

Not that he was going to give her any choice in the matter, but it would be easier if she came of her own free will.

****

Aurora Banks had seen just about everything in her twenty-two years of living, and most of it wasn’t pretty. But this was the last thing she’d expected to happen when she was shoved into the dancing cage a few hours ago.

The man standing before her with his hand out was tall and broad and downright intimidating.

His eyes were a piercing green, and his silky black hair fell around his shoulders. A thick scar ran from just below his eye by his nose all the way out to his ear.

If she were totally honest, he was handsome in a rough-looking way. Not that it mattered. He was a way out of this nightmare. Rory only hoped she wasn’t jumping from one bad situation to an even worse one.

Trusting her instincts, she reached out and took his hand. It was warm and strong as it closed around hers and pulled her to the edge of the cage. He lifted her down from her gilded prison, wrapped one strong arm around her, and hustled her toward the wide red door that blocked their path to freedom.

“The guards.” She had to yell to be heard above the din of the yelling and fighting. They called themselves bouncers, but they were here to do more than keep the peace. Their main job was to make sure they didn’t lose any of the merchandise or the money. And all the women on board were considered prime merchandise.

“You let me worry about them.” Her liberator reached inside his shirt and drew out a compact-sized blaster.

Something crashed behind her, and she automatically began to look toward it. He caught her chin and turned her face away. “Look forward, not back.”

That was good advice. She ignored the noise and the fighting and hurried to keep up.

One man, a Crebian by the looks of his greenish-blue skin, tried to stop them. The man beside

her didn’t even pause. He simply raised his hand and shot the blaster. The Crebian fell to the floor, and the men around him stepped back, giving them a wide berth.

Rory didn’t know how her rescuer had managed to get the weapon on board the Exos, as there were stringent controls in place to keep such a thing from happening. She should know as she’d spent the past month trying to find a weak spot in their security system so she could plan her escape.

They pushed their way through the door. The man beside her tightened his grip on her wrist.

His urgency became hers. “Run,” he told her. Giving no thought to the mistake she could be making, Rory ran, her bare feet slapping against the metal floor as she was practically dragged behind him.

“We’re coming in hot.”

At first, she thought he was talking to her. It took her a moment to realize he was speaking into a communication device strapped to his wrist. And it wasn’t just any communication device. This one was top-of-the-line and went for at least one-thousand Alliance credits, maybe more.

Who was this guy? Laborers and miners didn’t waste their hard-earned money on fancy communication devices. They tended to splurge on booze and women when they had a few extra credits.

“Roger that,” a deep voice replied. “Hurry the fuck up.”

Rory shivered. Whoever the voice belonged to, he did not sound happy.

“Just fire up the engines and be ready for anything.” He picked up his pace. “Not much farther,” he told her. “We’re docked at J portal.”

Rory glanced at the sign on the wall. They’d just passed the H portal. She did her best to keep up with the pace he set, but it wasn’t easy. She wasn’t used to having to run for her life.

He stopped suddenly, slammed her body against the wall, and threw himself on top of her. She heard the sound of a blaster, and then his big body jerked against hers.

Rory screamed. Her rescuer had been shot. She wasn’t going back to the cage. She wasn’t.

She scrambled for the blaster in his hand even as the pounding of boots got closer. But when she lunged for the weapon, it was already out of reach.

Her liberator whirled around and returned the guard’s fire, the blaster steady in his hand. She peeked around his shoulder in time to see the two burly guards drop to the deck. “Come on.” He tugged her behind him, practically dragging her. She tripped but managed to stay on her feet.

The J deck came into view. Instead of relaxing, she grew even tenser. She knew better than to think this was over. No woman had ever been taken off the Exos. The captain wouldn’t allow it to happen. His reputation was on the line. If one woman was taken, then many would see all of them as fair game. The Exos would be constantly under attack. Pleasure ships stayed in business by being utterly ruthless to any who broke their rules and by having impenetrable defenses.

The panel whooshed open, and he practically threw her through it. “Get on the ship. Now.”

A fairly large deep-space-class trader was docked on the other side of the portal. The door to the vessel slid open, and a man stood there in full body armor, holding a massive blaster cradled in his arms.

Rory moved closer to her rescuer and clutched the hem of his shirt. He didn’t pay her any attention as he was too busy peering around the panel. “Come on. Come on,” he muttered under his breath. It occurred to her that he must have had an accomplice, someone who had aided him in her escape.

The man with the massive weapon beckoned her forward, but she wasn’t going anywhere. Not without the man beside her. She may not know his name, but she trusted him more than the unknown man waving her toward the ship. He’d protected her from the guard’s blasters. She’d be dead if he

hadn’t.

Boots pounded against the metal floor. “Move it,” yet another unknown man yelled as he ran toward them, head down and legs pumping.

The man beside her startled as if surprised to find her still beside him, grabbed her hand, and yanked her through the portal and on to the waiting ship. Honestly, she was getting a little tired of being dragged around as though she were space garbage and he a salvager.

They passed the sentry as they boarded. He didn’t even glance at them. All his attention was on the portal. The other man burst onto the deck, raced through the portal, and launched himself onto the ship. The door slid closed and locked behind him. The man with the huge blaster hit the communication pad next to the door. “Go. Go. Go.”

The ship banked sharply and dropped as the captain released from the docking station and took off hard and fast. Rory flew toward the wall, but before her body could smash against it, strong arms snatched her out of midair, anchoring her. “I’ve got you.”

She shivered at the sound of his voice. He certainly did have her. His arms were like hot manacles wrapped around her midsection. He slid down the wall, braced himself against it, and dug his boots into the floor. The scratchy material of his shirt was rough against her arms and back, making her very aware of her lack of clothing.

With the intensity of their flight, and her need to escape, she’d forgotten she was wearing nothing but a scrap of what couldn’t really be called underwear.

The ship suddenly banked again, and she gripped his arm tight. The two other men grabbed the bulkhead above them and rode out the wild ride with seeming ease. She envied them their strength.

“They’ll send fighters after you,” she felt compelled to point out. The Exos had six fighters in her fleet along with several shuttles for ferrying customers from the surface of whatever planet they were currently orbiting.

The man who’d race on board behind them grinned at her. “They’ve got to catch us first, babe.”

Then the deep voice came over the intercom once again. “Hitting boosters in three, two, one.”

Rory knew what that meant and wrapped her arms around the man holding her. The ship shimmied and then was whipped forward at a massive rate of speed. This was obviously no ordinary trader ship. Boosters cost huge money and came with an element of danger as well. Flying at such incredible speeds meant it was tough to avoid another ship or a meteor if one crossed your path.

Just who were these men? And what did they want with her?

The longer they sat there, the more comfortable she got, which made her uneasy and confused the hell out of her. She was practically naked and sitting on a man’s lap, a man she didn’t know.

Something hard dug into her side, and she knew it wasn’t his blaster—the weapon was much too small to be the foreign object pressing against her. Considering she was sitting on his lap, that left only one possibility. Her rescuer was aroused.

She swallowed hard. Had they brought her on board to service the crew? She began to shiver, fear adding to the chill of the loading bay airlock. She’d fight if she had to. There had to be a safety shuttle somewhere on board. All she had to do was find it.

He pulled her closer and ran his big hand up and down her back, his touch rough but gentle.

“We’ll get you some clothes just as soon as we’re out of booster mode.”

That gave Rory pause. It certainly didn’t sound as if he were getting ready to rape her as soon as they leveled out. That had to be a good sign. Right?

She nodded because there really wasn’t anything else she could do or say at the moment. She

could feel the other two other men watching her and made sure her hair covered her breasts. She didn’t want to give them an eyeful, or at least any more than she already had. Who knew how much of her they’d already seen?

Rory didn’t know how much time had passed before the ship slowed, coming out of booster mode and into regular flight. She had no idea where she was. Not that it mattered. The only home she’d ever know was gone, stolen by a devious man, someone she’d trusted.

“Let’s get you up and find you something to wear,” her liberator, or captor—at this point she wasn’t quite sure what to call him—said. It was getting tiresome not knowing his name.

“Who are you?” She had to know.

He held out his hand to one of the other men and was dragged to an upright position. He kept one arm around her, taking her with him, and settled her on her feet beside him. “I’m Kal Marks.” He raised an eyebrow when she didn’t say anything. “And you are?”

Shock hit her square between the eyes. “You don’t know who I am?”

He shook his head, causing a lock of hair to fall across his forehead. She fought the urge to brush it away. Honestly, she was losing her mind. “Then why did you kidnap me?”

“Rescue you,” he amended.

She’d give him that. At least until she knew more about her situation. “Okay, why did you rescue me?”

He released her wrist. It was the first time since he’d offered her his hand that some part of him wasn’t touching her. She missed it more than she should. She felt bereft, set adrift. Which really didn’t make any sense. She might have a name for him, but he was still a stranger.

“Because of this.” Kal reached out and rubbed a finger over the base of her tattoo, tracing the thorny vines before stroking upward over the trail of colorful flowers covering her arm. He started at her forearm, moved up to her elbow and then all the way to her shoulder.

“You took me because of my tattoo?” Had she heard him right?

He nodded. “What’s your name?”

“Aurora Banks. Call me Rory.” Only her father had called her Aurora, and only when he was angry with her. Everyone else had called her Rory for as far back as she could remember.

Kal nodded. “Well, Rory. Welcome aboard the Abigail. These are my brothers Garth and Amos. You might recognize Garth from the Exos. The one with the big gun is Amos.”

Now that she was really looking at them, the family resemblance was obvious. They were all big men, although Garth was more heavily built than the other two. And they all had black hair with a shock of white in the front. She looked from one to the other. She hadn’t noticed the lock of white in Kal’s hair during their dramatic escape. No wonder. It had taken everything out of her just to run and stay on her feet.

Amos was missing the pinky finger on his left hand. No doubt these were tough men who’d lived a rough and deadly life. She had no idea what they did for a living and wasn’t sure she wanted to know. Since their ship was a trader she wondered if they were legit or mercenaries. They could well be smugglers, men who’d run anything if the price was right.

Both of the men nodded at her. They were studying her as if waiting for her to say something.

She didn’t exactly know what to say, so she nodded back.

Heavy footsteps came toward them, vibrating through the floor. A red light on the wall flashed to green and the door to the loading bay airlock opened. It had been secured from the other side.

Rory might have wondered more about that, but she couldn’t take her eyes off the giant of a man standing in the doorway. He was taller than the rest, his black hair buzzed off close to his skull.

But she could see the short strands of white and knew he was another brother. A black patch covered his right eye, and his right hand wasn’t skin and bone but robotic.

“What the fuck are you standing around for? What does she know?”

End of sample chapter

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