

A Fool's Heart

Volkoff Pack

Prequel

S.R. Roddy

Copyright © 2014 S.R. Roddy

Smashwords Edition

All Rights Reserved

www.srroddy.com

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced in any manner without written permission of the author except in the case of quotations used for critical articles or reviews. Thank you for respecting the hard work of the author.

# Prologue

Micah watched from the shadows as his twin sons strutted into the compound. Today they celebrated their first hunt, an event that marked them as an adult in shifter society. Such a day held great pride for both parent and child. Sadly, he could not permit himself to be involved. Instead, he must lurk in the darkness. Destined to watch others participate and guide his offspring through this momentous occasion.

Wolves believed strongly in ceremony, especially those involving the youth of their society. The coming of age celebration was a grand event. Micah grimaced at the unfairness. His right to be there was stolen from him by fate. His mate suffered through another late term miscarriage only yesterday, a set of twins not unlike those swaggering through the square.

Micah's melancholy dissipated at their boastful attitude. A grin spread across his rugged face as he watched their antics. Tonight, even Hunter held his head high and sported a smile of triumph. As each was followed by a guard carrying the night's achievement. A moose for Hunter and a five–point buck for his brother.

The twins were so different from each other. His eldest, Cyril, tended to be bold and dominant, a true alpha as he should be. Hunter was quieter, a thinker if you will. He preferred to observe others, rather than communicate with them.

It was Cyril that interacted with others. He smoothed ruffled feathers like a pro. He was the one who handled their mother when she was in one of her moods, which happened often through the years.

Micah was grateful for the twins. His boys, the pride and joy of his life. A gift from the goddess. The one thing he did right.

Micah thought of his wife and sorrow overwhelmed him once more. Over the years as Eva's paranoia piqued, Micah realized his presence only exasperate the situation. So, he tended to stay away during her episodes. Though, in recent years, those moments seemed to have tapered off.

Micah had hoped that the decrease in outbursts was a good omen. He truly thought she was doing better. At least the boys had never complained or stated otherwise. Now he knew better.

This last miscarriage caused something to snap inside of her. She'd become enraged at the announcement that the ceremony would continue, despite their recent loss. Many valuable medical supplies were lost as she threw chairs, beacons and whatever else she could get her hands on. They sedated her, and even then she fought to break free of the drugs. It saddened him to see her that way. Such a vibrant woman brought low by the instability of her mind.

Eva was angry that Micah allowed the celebrations to continue though their babies had just died. He didn't know how to respond to that, or what she wanted from him. He was not an emotional shifter. Oh, he had feelings like anyone else. He loved his family, felt pride fear and sadness. Micah wasn't a robot as his wife accused, he just didn't wear his emotions for all to see. Nor did he see a point in punishing the living.

The infants were dead, and he would mourn their loss. Canceling the twin's ceremony would not bring back their lost siblings. They hurt just the same as any adult and all involved felt that this event would help ease their sorrows. It was unhealthy for young wolves to wallow in such gloom. They needed something positive to take their mind off the latest tragedy.

Micah had hoped to mollify his mate by promising to abstain from participation. Which left his brother Dmitri, the pack alpha and his second in command, Grigor in charge of the twins' first shift and hunt. The exclusion saddened him, but this was for the best.

He too ached for the recent loss of another set of twins. This time girls. He would've liked to have a set of girls to spoil, but the fates didn't deem it so. He wondered at times if they punished him for daring to be selfish.

Micah's mate was a beautiful woman, spoiled beyond her station. Dmitri had tried to talk him out of the match, but he was stubborn. She was not equal in rank. Just a lowly guard's daughter from a small pack they visited outside of Madrid. It was love at first sight, or so Micah had thought. They mated without either packs consent and suffered for it afterward.

Years of miscarriages and let downs proceeded, until the birth of their twin boys. They were healthy, and for a while their mother seemed happy, content even. But, as time progressed her depression seeped in once more. Micah tried to give her other children. It was all she'd asked for. As an only child, being a mother of a large family had been her only dream. He'd truly wished to fulfill her request, but it was not to be.

Each year when her heat overcame her, Micah would perform his duty. After a time that's all it became to him. A chore that left him cold inside. He knew each time her cycle ended that she would once again carry a child. One that would not survive. It saddened him to watch her suffer, but there was naught he could do.

The howls in the distance brought Micah out of his mournful thoughts. Resentment filled him as he watched his sons laugh and brag to the others about their first kill. They were his children, his legacy. Yet, fate cheated him out of this celebration.

His shoulders slumped. It was wrong to blame the twins, or even the others for the events that interfered with his participation. It was no one's fault, just a sad accident.

The wind shifted, bringing with it a new aroma. The smell of fresh blood permeated the air; copper tinged with a sweetness only a true predator could appreciate. Micah stilled as another more subtle fragrance floated through the air. He searched the shadows. Why had he not discerned her presence before now?

A sense of urgency hit him. She was there, hidden in the dark, and Micah needed to find her. The waves of resentment and rage were more prominent now. He feared what she might do in her current mental state.

Micah scanned the area with his eyes and his senses. She was close, but why? That was an answer he didn't have, but there was no doubt it meant trouble.

For years now, she'd held nothing but disdain for wolf politics or tradition. So motherly pride at their accomplishments couldn't be cited as the reason for her nearness. Was she jealous that her place was usurped?

Eva enjoyed the attention of others. She wasn't completely happy unless all eyes were centered on her. That could account for the anger radiating from her aura.

A chorus of howls drifted on the night air. A call to all warning of their return. Micah's eyes flitted around the courtyard, franticly searching for his mates hiding spot, but he found nothing. Another round of laughter echoed through the square. He saw the movement too late to warn them. Her partially shifted form shocked him. How was this possible?

Though not impossible, female shifters were rare. His mate had never registered more than a rudimentary amount of the typical wolf senses. How could she change? Things like this just didn't happen. There was no logical reason for it...

Micah watched horrified as she pounced on the unsuspecting crowd of wolves. Too stunned to even move from his own position in the shadows, he could only stand witness as the scene unfolded.

♥~♥~♥~♥

Eva pounced on the unsuspecting crowd of wolves. The shadows no longer able to hide her true nature. Her target, Cyril, a boy with eyes the color of sapphires who stood frozen in the middle of it all. The look of stunned disbelief on his face made her want to cackle with glee as she swung her claw at his cheek slicing it open from temple to mouth. Not a killing blow, but it would scar, a permanent reminder for his crimes of pride and greed. The momentum of her leap brought them to the ground, the hard fall knocked the breath from the boy.

Shouts and growls of outrage, mixed with surprised confusion surrounded them both. Her muzzle elongated as fang and teeth tore at flesh.

"How the fuck is she shifting?"

Grigor, she would recognize that voice anywhere. He'd never liked her, despite her many efforts to ingratiate herself in his eyes. His anger and frustration were evident in each word.

"I don't know."

She didn't recognize the new voice, but neither did she care. She enjoyed their confusion, reveled in it.

"Just get her the fuck off him!"

Ahh, the all-powerful Dmitri. The cause of much of her unhappiness. He should've been her mate and she the alpha female. His rejection had forced her to choose another, the younger brother to be exact. Micah had never known he was the inferior version of the male she wanted. His inability to father living offspring was proof of his inadequacies.

Now they would pay. She would destroy the one thing they all seemed to care for. A miniature version of her tormentor, the constant reminder of all she had to endure. A powerful claw slammed into the barely developed chest beneath her. Her only intent, to reach the beating heart in its depths. The boy's eyes haunted her with accusation and disapproval.

"Mother?" He coughed, blood sprayed across her face igniting the frenzy once more. "But why..." He asked in bewilderment.

Confusion filled her as someone grabbed her throat. Mother? No, he was not hers. He was the spawn of the male who plagued her waking hours.

"Release him."

The command of the Alpha...

No, she must resist the pull to obey. The tangy flavor of blood hit her senses, setting her insides afire and ignited the blood lust once more. She licked dry lips in anticipation as shouts, growls and demands were made. She ignored all in her pursuit. Her goal, to hold his crushed heart in her hands as the last beat of life sounded.

She felt the wrenching of her neck, heard a loud crack as bones shattered. Her gaze locked with those of sapphire, pride now replaced by fear. A euphoric feel of triumph raced through her body then nothing more.

♥~♥~♥~♥

His son gazed at him, eyes pleading and yet he stood there, stunned, his energy depleted. He was ashamed of his inability to act. A parent was meant to love and protect their children, not destroy them. Questions bombarded Micah's mind.

She was his wife, his life mate. How could he not have known that she was this far gone? Time and again he had left the boys alone with her. They had dealt with the brunt of her anger alone while he traipsed off across the country on his next assignment. Ignorant of what he'd left in his wake.

His gut knotted as realization dawned. His actions had caused this. Though not intentional, he had fueled the flames of her hatred toward their own children. He avoided his wife when he was home and spent all his free time in training. He permitted the boys to observe his sessions. He'd known she resented the time he allotted to his children but ignored it.

It was his job to protect. Instead, Micah avoided, shirking his husbandly duties in the name of pack responsibility. He was a Sentinel for fucks sake. How could he let this happen? His guilt ate at him until the only thing he could do was run.

His brother and alpha of the pack swore through their connection his son would live. He trusted his word because his brother would not lie. Pivoting on his heel, Micah walked into the night. Abandoning his injured child and the body of his dead mate. He would trust his brother and the pack to care for his son. He was no longer worthy of the job. Truth be told, he wondered if he'd ever been deserving.

# Chapter 1

Micah's heart beat a rhythm he'd never felt before as the visiting group was escorted through the courtyard. Confusion swirled through his thoughts. He could not understand his body's strange reaction. Had the Goddess finally decided to judge him for his arrogance? Maybe it was punishment for the neglect of his sons.

He tried to take care of them, but the guilt that consumed him with each glimpse at Cyril was too much for any person to bear, let alone a man who loved so deeply. He knew the boys were confused by his indifference. What could he do to change things though? He was a failure as a husband and father. Maybe that was why the Goddess chose to take all the other children created by him and his wife.

Wife, a word that brought a crippling pain to his very soul. Life wasn't supposed to be this way. After nearly two centuries of marriage, He should've been prepared for that night. He should've known, seen some sign that she was on the edge. Instead, he saw only the beautiful woman he'd mated suffering in her grief. A grief he shared and understood.

Who could blame her for the constant melancholy when her children were continuously taken from her? To hold a child, you created with love, to have them take their last breath while you cradle their small helpless body. Goddess above, they'd done just that, five times. They lost another three through miscarriages. Who could blame her? Not him. He did blame himself though. Just as she blamed him, and rightly so.

Micah had refused to listen to the others when they counseled against a union between him and Eva. She was beautiful, the daughter of a lowly pack member from a distant community. He'd glimpsed her in a crowd, and wanted her for his own. She just wanted out of the poverty. The wife of an alpha's brother was a huge step up from the life she'd been destined for, and she jumped at the chance. When he became a Sentinel before the mating ceremony, her father was ecstatic. Any reservations her parent held, dissolved at the news. The fact that they weren't true mates became irrelevant.

His parents hadn't approved at all. Micah's father trusted in the goddess and believed all should wait for their true mate. Micah had believed the fates were wrong. The way Eva made him feel couldn't be fabricated. He wanted her with a desperation that bordered on obsession. Their couplings had always been a frenzy that lasted for hours.

After his parent's murder, the decision was left to Dmitri as the new Alpha. When his brother objected, Micah reminded him that true mates were rare. The proof of happy, contented matings between bonded couples were all around them. In the end, his brother relented and gave permission.

None realized that subject would be a point of contention between the happy couple for years to come. Every time a new female came around, or he went on a long assignment, the accusations and suspicions would start.

He tried to see things from her point of view, to be reasonable. He constantly traveled because of his position while she remained locked in the compound. Forced to care for the twins alone. Her looks and well, her snobbish personality made it difficult for her to form friendships.

Though her father was poor, he gave her all he could. Continually spoiling her with gifts he honestly couldn't afford. As she grew, she expected, even demanded more. Her looks excused her behavior as far as her alpha was concerned. All the males of her pack enjoyed spoiling her. The only payment they desired was the gift of her smile. Sentimental fools, all of them.

Eva wrapped men around her little finger easily, as she had him. With the exclusion of Dmitri and Grigor, the opposite sex worshiped her. Their lack of awe left her bitter, as well. It's difficult to be submissive and respectful to someone you resent. Maybe if he'd left and started his own pack, or even joined hers, things might have turned out differently...

His heart stuttered as the group passed within feet of him, bringing him out of his musings. He startled at his brother's touch. How had Dmitri gotten so close without Micah's notice?

"You were lost in thought," Dmitri answered. The fact that Micah hadn't asked the question aloud seemed trivial.

"Stay out of my head..." Micah swore silently. How much had his brother picked up on?

"Don't worry so much. I wasn't peeking into your subconscious. You were projecting and I intercepted."

Micah sighed in relief until his brother's words registered. Great, he was projecting, not good. While Dmitri could read minds, Micah often projected thoughts to others. It served him well in his job, manipulation always did. He could also alter his molecular structure to allow for aging, which was great for temporary disguises.

The day had just started and already his stress levels were elevated. He needed a distraction. A bright purple scarf danced on the breeze and reminded him of the recent guests.

"Who are the visitors?" Micah asked.

He didn't really care about the answer, he just wished to change the subject. At least that is what he told himself, but the draw he felt toward the group was powerful. He'd vaguely noticed the two females in the midst of the others but was too far away to see details.

"A pack from Texas. Their alpha wishes his men to be trained to fight military style." Micah raised his brow intrigued. He knew there was more to the story. "They live close to the border and want protection against the drug cartels."

Micah nodded, understanding this alpha's desperation. It was rare for a pack to come to Dmitri without Council sanction. Most packs held the conceited belief that they were superior to humans, and therefore didn't need training. Though it was difficult to kill a shifter, it wasn't impossible.

The worst would be a capture and hold situation. Shifter's rejuvenation and healing capabilities made them the perfect torture victim for a psycho. Goddess, he really didn't want to think of all the atrocities possible.

If the were–council got their wish, the whole world would know of the shifter's existence. For months now they'd been in meetings with relevant leaders in an attempt to gain support for their cause. Once they won, for Micah had no doubt that they would, they'd argue before the U.S. Senate. It might take years before a compromise could be made, but it would eventually become a reality. Then the atrocities would really begin.

Groups like the Hunters Organization would finally have vindication. The very idea made his stomach churn. They were a cesspool of fanatics who leaned toward psychopathic tendencies.

"He brought some of his best fighters to be trained. In time, they will teach the others in their pack."

Micah nodded at his brother's words while he still pondered the horrifying truth that someday they would all be faced with human fear and bigotry. He thought of the two young girls he'd seen in the group and wondered how dangerous it would become for their women.

"What about the females?"

Micah knew some packs allowed females to learn fighting skills. Their inability to shift left them vulnerable in combat situations, but for self-preservation the techniques were invaluable.

The population of females in the Volkoff Pack consisted of mates and offspring making the numbers small, but treasured. Dmitri made sure each was trained to protect themselves efficiently.

"No more vulnerable than a human."

Micah glared at his brother. "Get out of my head," he said through clenched teeth.

"Projecting..." Dmitri answered with a shrug. "The women will learn too, but they are special."

"Who are they?" Micah asked not sure if he really wanted to know. Curiosity and lifelong habits won out over disinterest.

"Charlotte and Sylvia. They are the Alpha's daughters."

Micah stared at his brother, his interest piqued for the first time in years. He tried to hide his excitement as he answered.

"I see."

Dmitri chuckled. "Yes, I think you do." Micah wondered what his brother meant by that, but refrained from asking with effort. "Would you like to meet them?"

His alpha didn't wait for a response, just grabbed Micah's arm and propelled them both in the direction of the Texas pack. Two females stood amongst the group of guards. The taller of the two stood directly in the middle as if she were the center of attention. The other hovered on the outskirts as if her protection was nothing more than an afterthought.

Micah's gaze zeroed in on the smaller female as they approached the group. She was a dainty thing, with blonde tresses that fell below her well-rounded ass. Though more than a foot shorter, something about the small pixie appealed to him. She glanced up and Micah became lost in the prettiest set of amethyst eyes. Her cheeks turned a rosy hue and he fought the desire to test her warmth.

A vision flashed in his mind of her suckling a child to her breast. Like a punch in the gut, he knew his life would forever be changed.

"Ladies."

Dmitri's voice startled Micah out of his trance like state. He watched his brother take the taller females hand and bring it to his mouth. His lips lingered on her pulse point a fraction longer than was proper, but his brother didn't seem to notice or care.

The statuesque brunette more resembled a young boy than a woman with her nonexistent curves. Her hair while thick, barely brushed her shoulders. Though Micah was sure she meant to portray pride, her nose pointed upward so far that if it rained she might drown.

She smiled and her face transformed into an awe-inspiring beauty. The female was well beyond the type of woman that would attract Micah, but he noticed the instant attraction Dmitri engendered. Not for the first time, Micah wondered how different his life would be if he had his brother's gifts. To have an innate ability to read one's mind and engender trust with such ease.

Nothing ever came easy for Micah. It's how he fell into the trap of his first mating. Eva was beautiful and she chose him to be with. He'd felt honored. Finally, the Goddess had seen to bless him for his faithfulness. In the end, all had gone awry. Love had ended in misery and death.

The twins were a generous gift, created from their union. Now they were no longer children and he'd squandered their youth with his bitterness. He'd avoided any contact with them since their mother's death. The last three years had been torture for him. He couldn't look at his own sons without feeling guilty. They were a constant reminder of his own failures.

"Don't mind Sylvia, she's inept when it comes to social skills."

The cruel words brought Micah out of his musings. These females were sisters? The animosity in the older girl's words and demeanor told him there was discord in the family. His hackles raised, his wolf detested the way the older female spoke to the younger. Odd, his wolf had been silent for years.

Except in cases of protection, his wolf showed no interest in him or what went on around him. The twin's presence brought out a response from his beast, but his own buried emotions made such contact difficult.

His inadequacies allowed a separation of sorts from his wolf. They only shared a rudimentary bond now. When he shifted, he buried himself deep in the wolf's psyche allowing it free rein. While in human form, the wolf granted the same. There was disharmony between the two as if his inner spirit held enmity toward him for the turmoil in their life.

A growl emitted low in his chest as his brother reached for the petite blonde. Startled, Dmitri paused assessing him. Micah had no explanation to give his brother. His wolf controlled his reaction. It didn't like his brother touching the female. Micah's eyes pleaded for his brother's understanding and acceptance. He held no desire to challenge his alpha, his wolf only expressed its own discontent at his familiarity.

With a subtle nod, Dmitri pivoted his body away from the girl and waved his hand. "Sylvia, may I introduce my younger brother, Micah?"

"Younger? Why does he look so much older than you if he's younger?" the brunette asked.

Micah was beginning to truly dislike this older sibling. Her condescending tone grated.

"You forget yourself," Sylvia snarled.

Instantly, she slapped a hand over her mouth. Her eyes were round like saucers and pleading.

The similar shocked expressions worn by the group told all present that Sylvia had behaved out of character.

Even more startling was his wolf's response to her protection. Micah held no doubt that her reaction was to her sister's treatment of him, and his wolf approved.

"Easy, little wolf," Dmitri cautioned.

"Sorry," she mumbled bowing her head.

Micah found it difficult to resist touching her. He lifted her chin with his fingertips gazing into her eyes. He noticed his brother's close examination of her as well and fought the urge to snap at him once more.

"Your wolf lingers close to the surface." Dmitri turned to the guards. "Is this normal?"

"N–no sir. She has never shown signs of possessing an animal spirit. We all assumed she had none. Her usual demeanor is docile to the point of none responsive."

A smile lit Dmitri's face that gave Micah pause. Unease settled harshly on his shoulders. What was his brother so happy about?

"Good. Sylvia, why don't you join me in a stroll while your sister retires to her quarters?"

His words were clearly not a request, but the sister ignored his subtle order. "I don't wish to abandon—"

"That was not a request. Go and freshen up," Dmitri stated before pivoting on his heel.

When he reached for Sylvia's arm, something snapped inside Micah and he snarled. "Do not..."

"Be at ease, brother. Even if you do not realize it yet, I understand what she is to you. Now come."

Dmitri's coaxing cadence and demeanor relaxed Micah as he followed in his brother's wake. His wolf disliked the close vicinity Dmitri shared with the girl, so in an action meant to appease the wolf's restlessness, Micah grasped her arm. The electricity that vibrated through his body at such a simple touch startled them both, but some yet undetermined part of him refused to allow him to release her. Oddly, she seemed content to allow the touch emitting a low-frequency rumble of pleasure.

As they walked toward the forest path, it was easy to discern Charlotte's footsteps. She stomped around huffing her disapproval with each stride in the opposite direction. His gut twisted with unease at her actions. She would not take this dismissal easily. Already he'd picked up on her penchant towards cruelty. Would Sylvia be made to suffer for his brother's slight?

# Chapter 2

"We need to talk about your sons," Dmitri stated.

Micah narrowed his eyes. He'd enjoyed his afternoon and now his brother wanted to ruin it? He knew exactly what his alpha would say, but it made no difference. His mind was made up.

"No, we really don't."

"They need you."

"No, they need stability, discipline, and guidance. All things they will receive in the bunk house," Micah argued.

"They're too young."

"I'm gone more often than I'm home, on one assignment or another. I can't give them what they need."

Why couldn't his brother understand? His sons needed more than he could give them.

"You could retire."

Micah was stunned at such a statement. He stared into Dmitri's eyes horrified at the possibility his brother might force the issue. His work was all that held him together most days. He could remain numb without his past regrets haunting his waking moments. Anger burned in his gut.

"Could you?" Micah demanded.

"I'm Alpha, it's different for me and you know this."

This discussion would soon escalate into a full blown argument if he didn't get some kind of control over it. He looked to Grigor, the pack's beta for help.

"Okay, Grigor then. Would you give up your position, your life's work—"

"For family?" At Micah's nod of confirmation Grigor continued. "I'd give up everything."

"Then you're a better male than me," Micah declared.

The sadness in Grigor's eyes was hard to dismiss. He grimaced at his own lax in judgment. Lost in his own turmoil, he'd forgotten Grigor's past.

Grigor had lost more than Micah could ever imagine. Before they escaped the old country, during the great cleansing, Grigor, and his true mate were attacked by purist fanatics. Dmitri suspected it was part of the same group that had killed their parents. Micah knew definitively that they were one and the same.

He didn't know the exact details. Neither Grigor nor Dmitri ever mentioned that day. The rumors were not easily quashed, especially when those who committed such an act bragged incessantly about their conquest.

Micah knew that they were beaten and tortured. Grigor's mate was repeatedly sexually assaulted while he lay helpless, forced to watch their depravity. Her family found them and directed Dmitri to Grigor's location before transporting his mate to safety. After months of inquiries, they were informed that she succumbed to her wounds. Devastated, Grigor sought vengeance. Each person involved was hunted down and slaughtered without mercy.

Micah remembered his mate's reaction. Eva's surprise when Dmitri returned with Grigor. Her obvious disappointment when he survived and her confusion, even her snide remarks concerning true mate status. She failed to understand why Grigor survived the death of his so-called other half.

Grigor survived due to a fluke. He'd refused to fulfill the mating bond for fear of reprisal from the purist sect. She wasn't a shifter. Their mating would have transformed her. Once the venom took root, she'd become a hybrid and a target for those who allowed their ignorance to trump common sense. Grigor was a hybrid, the product of a powerful mage and shifter coupling, and knew the danger of such a status.

In the end, his cautiousness meant nothing. They were still attacked, and he lost his one chance for happiness. It was yet another thing that could be laid at Micah's feet.

Micah held his own secrets about that time and the circumstances surrounding the assault. He harbored a deep-seated guilt for the part he played in events, though unintentional. Eva had been the catalyst for it all. In a jealous rage, she'd sent a note disclosing the location of Grigor's secret rendezvous point to the very group that had killed his parents. He'd been appalled at her actions, but as her mate was forced to protect her at all costs.

"They're confused. The boys don't understand."

Dmitri's words brought him back to the present before melancholy could consume him. A part of Micah wished for things to be different, but he knew better. He really had no choice, he wasn't capable of giving them the guidance they needed. Too many past mistakes haunted him when he gazed in their direction.

"They will in time," Micah stated with resignation.

"At least consider a compromise?"

"This is my compromise," Micah asserted before he turned and walked away.

♥~♥~♥~♥

She sat in the meadow unnoticed as usual. The other members of her pack joked and tossed insults back and forth as they stretched. Her father's elite forces hard at work. Charlotte and her guards hadn't joined them yet this afternoon, but it didn't matter. They would never acknowledge Sylvia's presence in words or actions. Always the outsider. That, is how she felt.

The only one who ever noticed or cared for her welfare was her father. If not for him, Sylvia knew the others would have abandoned her long ago. Many times in her life she'd been warned of how easily a child could be lost on the hunt. It was only fear of her father's retribution that forestalled such actions. She was no fool, her sister would reward such a deed.

She stretched her hamstrings while she watched the others. They awaited the arrival of today's instructor. Sylvia understood the need for a fast paced training schedule. They were only allotted two weeks for instruction and there was much to cover in such a short time. The men wouldn't have a problem, it was her sister and herself that would hold up the classes.

Female werewolves lacked the strength and stamina of their male counterparts but were still stronger than human males. Though most female wolves couldn't shift, they still carried a spirit inside them. This enhanced much of their physical capabilities, including endurance. It was her father's belief that if they learned special techniques, it would increase the chance of survival in an attack.

Though Sylvia understood her father's reason for sending the two of them, she held doubts on their ability to complete the task. While her sister was vindictive, she wasn't particularly talented in physical combat. Charlotte concerned herself entirely too much with her appearance for such nonsense. Then there were her own shortcomings.

Sylvia's runt status, left her less than desirable for the drills listed in their instruction pamphlet. She'd never be able to flip her opponent, or outrun him. Her stunted legs doomed her to a slower gait than most wolves experienced. She was short, fat and weak. What an appealing combination...

She thought of the Alpha's earlier escort, a tour of the compound really. The land was beautiful and she felt special in the presence of both brothers. Though Dmitri spoke throughout the walk, it was Micah who held her arm and guided her steps over the difficult terrain.

Her pack resided close to the Mexico border, so trees were a luxury they didn't possess. Sylvia loved the dunes and the close proximity to the ocean waves, but this place called to her on a different level. The lush colors stood as a beacon to her very soul. If she were honest with herself, she'd admit at least a small part of her wished to stay.

The Volkoff brothers were friendly and accommodating during their walk. Something Sylvia was unaccustomed to in her daily life. She didn't understand the extra attention, but enjoyed it. She especially liked the younger brother's unfettered regard.

She'd been drawn to him from the moment their eyes met. An inexplicable attraction. She was sure he felt it too. He'd said few words during their walk. Instead, he allowed his brother to gush enthusiastic praise for his compound. It seemed to her as if they were trying to sell her on its merits, but that made no sense. Only a mated female left the pack she was born too.

Sylvia was young, but she'd lived long enough to know, no male wolf would ever want her for a mate. She was defective. A worthless runt. Still, she enjoyed the attention they'd showered her with.

Eventually, she would pay for the afternoon, but she'd hold on to the memories. Her sister would blame her for the Alpha's slight. The punishment would be swift and cruel she was sure. Sylvia just hoped that it would not be in front of the others. For the brothers to witness her degradation would be a humiliation of its own.

A voice she didn't recognize snapped her out of her musings. Her gaze locked with a set of deep blue eyes filled with kindness. A slight lift of his chin showed her a reverence she was unused to receiving. His lips twitched in a semblance of a smile before he glanced toward the group, a frown once more on his face.

"All right, listen up. My name is Markus. I will be one of your two main instructors for this visit. We will be training you in two categories. Hand to hand and weapons. Since this is your first day, we need to see what level each individual is starting at."

Several grumbles of discontent were heard throughout the group. Sylvia spotted her sister. Lost in thought, she hadn't noticed her arrival. The guards surrounded Charlotte, as usual.

They always followed her, in deed and action. They never considered Sylvia worthy of their concern. She nearly groaned aloud when her sister glared. Oh yes, Charlotte was angry and Sylvia would pay the price.

"No, complaints. Pair up and let's get started," Markus admonished.

It was no surprise to Sylvia that not one of her people chose to pair with her. Of course, it didn't escape the instructor's notice either. He scowled at the others. She sighed knowing it was a useless effort. There was an uneven number in her group and no one would partner her if they had other alternatives. She suspected it was an intentional slight, but one she was used to.

Markus motioned to another to come forward. Sylvia recognized him from her earlier tour but couldn't place a name with his face. He was part of the Alpha's personal guard. She wondered why he was here and not with Dmitri.

"Matt here, will be gauging your levels," Markus stated. He patted the other wolf on the shoulder before stepping toward her. "Your sparring partner will be here shortly, Ms. Sylvia."

Unused to any form of respect, she was dumbfounded by his treatment. A red hue covered her cheeks as he stared at her. Did he expect her to respond? Realizing he probably did she spoke the first words that came to mind.

"Just Sylvia," she whispered. As an afterthought, she added, "Thank you..."

Her face turned a bright crimson as those around her snickered. Markus scowled at the others before turning back to her a small smile on his lips.

"You're welcome, darlin' no worries."

"Stop flirting with my partner."

The menacing growl surprised her. She recovered quickly at the sight the male behind the voice, Micah. Her heart accelerated as he neared and she gulped nervously.

"Oh," was all she managed before he swept her feet out from under her and she fell flat on her back.

"Be prepared for an attack at all times," the annoying wolf offered with a grin.

She could already tell this afternoon would be painful. Micah had no intention of being gentle with her. She inwardly moaned but accepted his hand for assistance. An electric charge zapped her at the touch, but she ignored it. Before she could brush her clothes off the man had her on the ground once more.

She scowled and ignored the hand he put out to her. She'd not fall for that again. He smiled, a look of pleased satisfaction on his face. Well, maybe she could impress him after all, she thought before her ass met the ground once more...

♥~♥~♥~♥

After nearly an hour of repeated failures, Micah was ready to call an end to their sparring session. If, one could really call it that. He felt like a brute and Sylvia looked ready to cry a river of tears. He doubted he could handle much more. She was shredding at his supposedly unfeeling heart.

When she attempted to grab at him again, he shoved his palm into her chest. Guilt niggled at his conscience for straight-arming her in front of the others, but he needed to end this nonsense.

"Stop."

The look of confusion, mixed with a silent plea was nearly his undoing. When he shook his head, her shoulders slumped.

"I'm sor—"

"No need to apologize." He placed his fingers under her chin, lifting with only the slightest pressure. "There is no need for embarrassment or shame."

"I can't do this," she whispered.

"You can," he asserted.

"How?"

Her sorrow and vulnerability forced him to reconsider ending their session. He gave her a smile of encouragement. "You need to use the gifts the Goddess gave you."

She shook her head at him. "I have no gifts," she stated confused.

"You're small, but smart. He may be stronger, but he's a big man. You have speed on your side, use it," Markus offered.

Micah was annoyed that Markus hijacked his conversation, but he appreciated the help. He loathed the abject misery she oozed. He eyed the others of the group but found only the sister's gaze on them.

The sneer on Charlotte's lips drove his wolf to snarl his discontent. Oddly, his wolf disliked any perceived threat toward the girl before him. Noticing Micah's eyes upon her, Charlotte's facial features changed to admiration as she glanced up and down his body. His wolf rippled under the skin, the spirit close to the surface. It seemed his wolf detested the older sibling as much as he did.

A small hand touched his arm and the wolf calmed. He looked down into the troubled depths of swirling purple. She mesmerized him and soothed his inner beast with equal measure. He didn't understand his reaction toward her very presence. His mate never engendered these feelings, yet this pixie-like female held both the wolf and man enthralled with nothing more than a waft of her scent.

She didn't say a word, but yet he understood her question easily. She was concerned and wished to know if all was well. Her own turmoil, all but forgotten in the face of his distress. Her hand trembled ever so slightly as she glanced behind him. Her gaze didn't linger for more than a second before it met his own once more. He admired her bravery. She feared her sibling, yet fought the natural instinct to cower in order to comfort him.

He had a feeling the others were wrong about her nature. She wasn't a submissive. He believed years of abuse had suppressed her natural tendencies. If given the right motivation, she would battle fiercely for another. Instinct told him that he was one she would fight for, and his wolf preened at the knowledge.

He gave her cheek a brief touch before stepping back. Others watched, he didn't wish to give them fodder. "Let's begin again. Use your instincts as I come for you."

He approached her making to grab her shoulders. She surprised him, wrapping her leg around his own and forcing it to buckle. As he fell, he lunged for her dragging her down with him. She bounced against his chest. Her pillowy breasts smashed against his own. Their legs a tangled mess. He fought the urge to roll her under him and claim what belonged to him...

Belonged to him? What the hell was wrong with his wolf?

She stared at him, a look of shocked confusion on her face. A smile twitched on his lips and she released a breath of air as giggles bubbled up to the surface. His wolf let off a contented almost purr sounding noise and both chuckled.

"Did I do well?" she asked shyly.

"It's a start," he offered fighting the urge to stretch his neck out and kiss the lip she now bit into.

Markus grabbed for her arm forcing Micah to release his hold. He fought against his wolf's desire to attack. He disliked the other male removing Sylvia from their embrace. He needed to get a hold of this possessive nature his wolf decided to present.

"That was good," Markus declared with an encouraging smile. "Just remember to not lose sight of your goal."

"I don't understand."

"If an opponent takes you to the ground, you must regain the advantage," Micah stated hoping his words helped.

"How?"

"Use your legs, arms and head," Markus offered.

Micah could see the confusion in her eyes, so he stepped into her space grabbing her knee. "A knee to the gut or crotch will stun most males, even other shifters." He ran his hands up her thigh to her waist and turned her body from him. "Twist sideways and grind your hip into his body. Aim for soft spots. This will lessen the damage to yourself and maximize the pain he receives."

"What if the attacker is female?"

Her seemingly innocent question didn't fool Micah. He suspected her biggest tormentor was her sister. The idea of Charlotte's cruelty enraged his wolf, but he held it in check. She needed to learn to fight her own battles. If she didn't, she'd never be free.

"These techniques will work on both genders," he assured her. His palm moved upward to her shoulder where he gave her a brief squeeze for comfort before traveling down to her elbow. "The shoulder and elbow are useful tools just like the knee. Target anything vulnerable, the gut, chin, side. Whatever you can reach."

"The eyes, nose, and mouth are also vulnerable spots, but much harder to reach from your height," Markus added.

Micah linked their fingers, kissing her knuckle then released her once more traveling to her lips. Each touch heightened his wolf's senses. His inner beast obviously enjoyed touching Sylvia. If he was honest, the man liked it too.

The world around them had receded. He vaguely registered the order of dismissal. His wolf verified the other's departure, but remained focused on the woman before them.

"What if my actions enrage the attacker? Won't that make things worse?"

"If he or she catches you, definitely. The idea is to use everything at your disposal to stun them so that you can get away. In brute strength, you won't beat them. Freedom is your escape. If you can scream, do it."

"Most people ignore pleas for help."

The sadness in her words tore at him. This wasn't a normal statement. She knew from experience. How many times had she pleaded for another's help or mercy to no avail?

"The word fire, works much better."

She glanced around and put distance between them. He knew what she saw. The meadow was now devoid of others. In essence, they were alone. He didn't sense fear from her, only unease.

"I should go."

"Have dinner with me?" he asked impulsively.

Her face became heated at his outburst, but she looked him in the eye. He liked that. A smile formed on her lips.

"I'd like that, but I can't."

Micah's own smile slipped at her words. "Why?" He fought to hide his disappointment.

"Your brother invited us to dinner. I'm afraid rejecting a request from your alpha might be an insult."

Micah felt his cheeks warm. He'd forgotten about the welcome dinner. She was correct in her assumption, to decline would offer insult. Not that his brother would take it that way, but her pack would see it as disrespectful and might punish her. He'd give them no reason to retaliate against her.

His wolf would not remain lurking near the surface if she were harmed. He sensed its desire to come out and play. The damn thing would probably tear anyone or thing that harmed this female to shreds, slowly and painfully.

They stood only a hairsbreadth apart. Her breathing became shallow as they stared at one another. He fought the urge to caress her and lost. Dragging her into his arms he leaned down and touched her lips with his own. She relaxed into him without a struggle, responding to each nip and lick with an untutored action.

Micah licked along the seam of her mouth then tugged at her bottom lip. Her gasp of surprise allowed him entrance as his tongue slipped inside the moist recesses. He explored, coaxing her to counter his thrusts. His hands drifted down her ribcage to her hips. He ran his thumbs under the edge of her shirt, touching the exposed flesh. She was warm, her skin silky soft as he made slow circles on an upward path to her breasts.

He sensed her hesitancy, the trembling of her hand as it fluttered then settled against his waist. She was nervous. It hit him then, her reluctance, the tremble of her body — she'd never been kissed before. The thought both excited and frightened him. He eased back placing some distance between the two of them.

Micah almost apologized until he took in her appearance. The flush of her cheeks, her shallow pants of breath. The hardening of her nipples evident through the material of her shirt. She'd enjoyed her lesson. He fought the urge to smile in triumph. Even his wolf wished to howl to the hilltops. Instead, he touched her cheek one last time and schooled his features to mask his body's reaction.

"Then, I will see you at dinner," he offered inclining his head. He pivoted on his heel and departed the meadow before he gave in to his wolf's desire and ravished her.

# Chapter 3

Sylvia smoothed her hands over the front of her dress. The buttery soft feel of the material helped to calm her nerves as she traveled toward the pack house.

Charlotte had been unhappy with her when she'd arrived at the cabin, but Sylvia made an effort to stay clear of her sister. The result was a slightly mollified sibling. Of course, they left for dinner without her. Sylvia imagined it was supposed to be some sort of insult, but all she managed to feel was relief.

Sylvia replayed the day's events in her mind. It was the first for many things in her life. She'd never meet anyone quite like the Volkoff brothers. Their whole pack appeared to be a different breed. She was used to rudeness and disrespect, but this pack only showed manners and what appeared to be a deep-rooted politeness, almost chivalric in nature.

She wondered if it was perhaps their age. She'd not researched the pack as much as she should have, but she did know that most of the members were centuries old. Their leader's influence definitely played a role in their behavior.

Sylvia was surprised to realize she was enjoying her visit. Her mother hadn't wanted her to come. She believed it was a waste of money and resources. Her father had insisted that she be trained, stating that both girls faced the same dangers from attack.

Sylvia shuddered at the thought of one of the humans that lived near her pack lands capturing her. They were cruel men who held no qualms with torturing others. The thought of what a female shifter would suffer in their hands froze her breath.

Females may not be as strong as male shifters, but they still had rejuvenating abilities. The process was just slower. Making them the perfect victim for a sexual sadist. She'd seen pictures of what they did to human women they captured. She had no desire to be their play toy.

She'd never really wanted to come, despite the need to learn how to protect herself. She would've been content with her father's training. After today, she was glad her father had forced the issue. Coming here, meeting the brothers was an experience she'd not soon forget.

Then, of course, there was the attraction between her and Micah. He was breathtaking, the mere sight of him overwhelmed her. Yet, at the same time she was drawn to him. That kiss, her first ever, was something she'd hold in the secret recesses of her heart for all time. A memory to cherish and reflect upon during her lonely days at home.

Dmitri didn't appeal to her, in the same way. He had a gentleness, a caring about him that she'd not witnessed in many wolves, other than her father. There was no attraction though. To her, he was just someone who showed her kindness. Micah was the one that called to her soul.

That revelation both scared and excited her. When he touched her, she tingled with awareness. He'd asked her to dinner and there was the kiss. That meant he was interested in her as well, didn't it? She'd never had a beau before...

She stepped through the trees and was momentarily blinded by the cabin's illumination. It seemed as if every light in the area was on. There were sporadic groups of shifters sprinkled throughout the yard, maybe thirty wolves in all.

Sylvia noticed Charlotte right away. She stood off to the side of a bonfire. The flames danced around behind her accentuating her assets, but no one other than their own pack members looked in her direction. Sylvia sighed, somehow that affront would be placed on her doorstep as well. There was no doubt her sister's vengeance would be painful.

A soft murmur rippled through the group making Sylvia uneasy. Her sister's eyes narrowed on her intensifying the feeling. Sylvia glanced around and was surprised to see so many scrutinizing her. The only regard she wished for didn't seem to be present.

A low growl reverberated through the yard, a break in the crowd showed Micah, his gaze locked solely on hers. She felt her face heat at his obvious admiration. She looked at her hands in an attempt to hide her uncomfortable state.

Sylvia knew the violet sun dress she wore emphasized her body's best feature, the eyes. The longer back helped make up for the fact that her rounded ass pulled the material up, and the shorter front showed off her second best feature, her legs.

A bell rang and the spell was broken as Grigor's deep voice resonated through the air.

"The first round of meat is up, help yourself and find a seat."

She blinked and Micah was there beside her. Placing an arm around her waist he helped guide her through the throng of bodies and settled her at a small table near the stage. Charlotte sat at a longer table surrounded by their pack and a few random Volkoff pack guards. Dmitri exchanged what looked to her to be a pouty face with his brother before setting himself at the center of the longer table.

Sylvia smothered a giggle with the palm of her hand. The image of such a hard, domineering alpha with his lip puffed out was just too funny. Micah leaned in close as Markus and a few other men sat at the table with them.

"I see that you caught my brother's childish moment."

"Who can blame him for his momentary lapse? I've interacted with my sister for years, I know how tedious she can be."

"I can only imagine," he offered with a laugh. "Let me introduce you to my men." Micah pointed toward each man as he spoke their name.

"It's nice to meet you," she stated politely unsure how to react to his regard.

The men smiled at her then proceeded to tease, taunt and outright make jokes in order to outdo the other. After a few minutes, she relaxed and laughed along with them. She wondered if this was what normal felt like. She both admired and envied their ease with each other.

Time seemed to fly by. Her facial muscles hurt from smiling so much, a first for her. She covered her mouth as a yawn escaped. She regretted the motion as the males took notice frowning at their watches.

"I think it's time to call it a night guys," Micah stated with a smile.

The group glanced from him to her before giving a nod of acceptance. They all seemed to speak at once as they said their goodbyes.

"All right."

"Good night Miss Sylvia."

"It was nice to meet you."

"A joy."

Sylvia felt a twinge of disappointment that their night would end, but euphoric that they so easily accepted her. She'd enjoyed her evening, such a rare thing for her. When Micah turned toward her and offered his arm, she was shocked.

"May I escort you back?" he asked politely. The look of excitement in his eyes betrayed his casual manner.

"Please," she accepted linking her arm with his. She turned to the group of men, each had a mischievous look on their faces. Like they were witnesses to some secret joke that only they shared. A few hours ago she might have thought their behavior suspicious, tonight she enjoyed their machinations. "Good night guys." She waved as she followed Micah into the dark woods.

♥~♥~♥~♥

Micah led her around fallen branches as they traversed the woods. He considered tonight a success. For the first time in years, he actually felt alive. This evening's banter had been a rare treat and all thanks to this woman who walked beside him. She'd fit right in with his men, teasing and laughing as if they'd known each other for years.

Eva had disapproved of his men and refused to interact with them in a social setting. Now he wondered if it too wasn't just another form of jealousy. He shook his head refusing to allow his past to taint this wonderful evening he'd shared with Sylvia.

They reached a small meadow and he pulled her to a stop. They would arrive at the guest cabin in such a short time. He wanted to prolong the evening despite the fact he knew she was tired.

"I enjoyed tonight."

"I had a lovely evening."

They both laughed at their simultaneous outburst. An owl hooted to the left and she pivoted abruptly. Her startled reaction forced her foot into an odd angle and she caught her toe on an exposed root. She cried out, flailing her arms in an attempt to slow her descent toward the ground.

Micah grabbed her waist and hauled her close, the abrupt move put him off balance and they both hit the ground. He twisted his body at the last second to protect her from the hard earth. She landed on his chest with a loud oomph.

He smiled as she squirmed in his hold until his eyes locked onto her exposed cleavage. All humor fled from his thoughts at the realization her luscious body was cradled so naturally against him. He swallowed a groan, wrapping his arm around her waist in an attempt to hold her still. If she continued to wriggle like that she'd get more than she bargained for.

"Hold still," he begged trying to hold back a moan of pleasure.

Her leg twitched and she stilled instantly, her eyes wide. Micah knew exactly what she felt, but had no idea what to say. He couldn't bring himself to apologize for his body's natural reaction to her. He brushed the curtain of hair from her face as her fingers clenched against his chest.

They stared into each other's eyes for only a moment. He watched mesmerized as her tongue slid along her bottom lip. What he wouldn't give to taste that same spot. She sighed, her sweet breath blowing against his torso and he lost it.

His lips touched hers as a frenzy of emotions consumed him. Her mouth tasted like the strawberries they'd consumed at dinner. Her sweetness drove him to delve deeper as his tongue tangled with hers. She broke the kiss, but he held her tight. Stunned by the depth of feelings she ignited.

"I have never felt such need. It's as if I have no control," she gasped.

Her words broke the spell of desire. As reality came crashing back, a memory from years before flashed in his mind. Her perfumed scent wafted through the air, more spice than floral and realization dawned like a punch to the gut. Of course, Micah berated himself for his own foolishness. How could he have been so dense?

"Your heat is upon you."

His words came out harsher than he intended, but the accusation would not lay to rest. Had she attempted to fool him? To somehow lure him into a trap? Her heat explained so much of his turmoil. Few males could withstand a female in the throes of their heat frenzy. The only two wolves he'd ever met that remained unaffected were Dmitri and Grigor. She was not quite there yet, but it was a close thing.

Though it was acceptable for a male to ease a female's heat, Micah had never considered such a circumstance. He'd not given in to his sexual urges since the death of his mate. With the disaster that ensued from that foolish coupling, he had not felt deserving.

A choking noise caught his attention, forcing him to look at his companion. Her eyes were wide and frightened, putting him on alert instantly. Micah used his wolf senses to scan the area, but felt no other presence. He studied her face to determine the cause of her fear. Her eyes were glazed as if lost in her own world of terror. So, not a hidden enemy, at least not one in the physical form.

"What is it, Sylvia?"

Micah's words received no response. Concerned, he touched her cheek with his open palm. Warmth and need consumed him instantly, but he fought the urge. There was something wrong and he wished to find the cause. Though suspicion had filled him only moments before, an inner voice vowed she was trustworthy.

Without a word of denial from her, Micah fully believed that he'd misjudged her. He liked this female and even his wolf responded to her distress. His wolf's untimely reemergence was a concern, but for now he felt the strong need to comfort the tiny female before him.

"Sylvia?"

Micah's words, combined with his touch seemed to ease her tension. She blinked several times before meeting his gaze. He could still discern confusion in their depths, but they were no longer lost in a world of her mind's making.

"I'm confused..." she offered.

"Of what?" he asked, stroking her jaw with his thumb.

"I'm defective—"

"What nonsense," he denied interrupting her words.

Micah refused to allow such disparagement. She was perfect. How could anyone think otherwise?

"I've never had a heat cycle," she confessed.

Her statement gave him pause. Instantly, his brain began to calculate. The average female came into her first heat cycle around fourteen or fifteen. It was rare, but in some cases as late as sixteen. Had she lied about her age?

She was small, but voluptuous. Though her diminutive height could mislead another to believe her young, her body, and the way she held herself spoke of a maturity that he doubted a teen could fake. Was he wrong?

"How old are you?"

She flinched at his harsh demand. He cursed his oft–times rigid nature. He tended to bark out orders, rather than ask. He supposed his stint in the military could be blamed for his abrupt behavior. There was also his position in the pack.

As a sentinel he led many men, a forceful command was a common occurrence. He wasn't sure how to do gentle. He regretted his sharp tone, but it was too late to back step. He wanted answers to the mystery that was Sylvia.

As their gazes locked, a metamorphosis occurred. Mesmerized, he watched in breathless awe as her eyes went from wide, frightened receptacles to narrowed slits. Her recovery from his sharp tone was breathtaking to behold. Her back straightened and lips flattened with disapproval.

"You doubt me."

Her words were not a question, only a statement of fact. Micah's wolf snarled inside his head. His spirited beast abhorred her displeasure and wished him to make amends. He disagreed. She deserved only the truth.

"I do."

Sylvia stared unblinking. After a heartbeat her demeanor changed, a smile formed on her lips. "Relax, I am twenty–five. You were not played false."

Micah released a relieved breath. "For one so young, you speak with an old soul."

"My father's influence, I'm afraid. Now, since we are telling secrets, how old are you, Micah."

The mischievous light in her eyes along with the appearance of the elusive dimple in her cheek eased his tension. The fears that haunted her were banished for the moment. This playful nymph was something he recognized and felt drawn to. He didn't like the vulnerable side to her. It brought out an instinctual need to protect that he'd not felt in ages for another.

"I am over two centuries old."

"You are older than my father..."

She coughed but recovered quickly. The surprise on her face and her unfiltered utterance made his lips twitch with the need to smile. She hadn't expected his age and her honest reaction was refreshing.

"Now, explain why you have never experienced a heat cycle," he requested in an attempt to get back on topic. The female brought new meaning to the word distraction.

Micah watched as she shrugged her shoulders and lowered her head in defeat. "No one knows. The doctor's, the elders, even the old women of our pack all say the same thing. I am defective."

"And I say again, that's rubbish."

"Be honest, in our world a female who can't conceive will never be mated. They are less than worthless in were–society. Add to that my runt status and you can't really blame them for their views."

"You are not worthless. Now stop saying that."

Micah's anger surprised even himself. Since that first day, he disapproved of others putting her down, but to hear the words from her own lips caused a visceral reaction in him. It was wrong for her to even repeat such cruel words. His wolf snapped in his mind at those yet unknown forces that would speak so disrespectful of Sylvia.

She shrugged, yet again. "I only repeat other's words."

Curiosity over her situation forced him to ask questions he really didn't wish to know. Micah worried how she would construe his questions, but he wished to help her.

"Your sister is older than you?"

"Yes..." her hesitation was an obvious thing.

"Did she have a late heat cycle?"

"No," she answered anger in her voice. "I assure you, my sister is well past her first heat, and adequately tutored in the way of men and women."

"Oh for heaven's sake, come into this century will you? Can't you even say the word?" Charlotte... Micah would recognize her grating voice anywhere. "It's fuck dear, sweet, innocent sister. Sadly, something you will never know a thing about. Unless you find yourself a desperate shifter. Of course, there is always the choice of a human. They are of your social level, after all."

Though Sylvia held herself stiff, Micah could sense each flinch as her sister flung dig after dig at her. Her vulnerability angered his wolf. They both agreed on one thing, Charlotte needed to be dealt with once and for all.

"I'm above both of you in rank and by no means am I desperate. As a Sentinel, I have top pick of any female I desire. I can think of no situation in which I would pick you over Sylvia. Whether it be sexual or otherwise. She outclasses you in every way that matters."

"Don't let her whorish assets fool you. She has no heat cycle to speak of and, therefore, cannot conceive. By any standard that matters, she is worthless."

Her words made him realize she'd not listened in on their whole conversation. Charlotte had missed his comments about her heat cycle. He really wanted to put this bitch in her place.

"And you are the paragon of good breeding?" he questioned snidely.

"Of course."

The sound was barely discernable, but Micah picked up on the choking noise none the less. Clearly, Sylvia didn't agree with her sister's assessment. He couldn't blame her. This older sibling was a piece of work. A bold baggage, to say the least, with no modesty to speak of.

"Thank you."

"For what?" Charlotte purred, stepping closer to him.

Micah immediately stepped out of her reach, having no desire for this obnoxious female's touch. He could sense the distress coming from Sylvia in waves. His wolf abhorred the idea of her agitation. The man sensed how she straddled the edge. He feared that if Charlotte touched him, Sylvia would lose her hard-won control.

"For helping me make a difficult decision." She gave him a smile that he could only call triumph. "Come Sylvia," he ordered.

Reaching for her hand he pulled her to his side. The smile on Charlotte's face turned sour.

"You cannot be serious."

"I told you, I will always pick her over you. Is it my fault you refused to believe?"

"This is outrageous," she screeched.

"Yes, it is. I believe it's time for you to retire to your rooms, Charlotte. Do stay there this time," Dmitri commanded, stepping from the forest.

"I only wished to take a stroll—"

"I can detect a lie, so can my brother. It is only one of many talents. Now remove yourself."

"Fine, come sister," Charlotte snarled. She didn't wait for an answer, just stomped off through the woods.

Micah didn't watch her, he hoped she'd get lost and maybe never be found. He was focused on Sylvia. Her hesitation and anxiety disturbed his wolf.

"I should go."

"You don't have to Sylvia. We can make other accommodations," Dmitri assured.

She gave them a sad smile as she shook her head. "It's better this way."

Micah watched her scurry in the direction her sister went and wondered who it was better for. Somehow he doubted it improved Sylvia's life. His wolf wanted to follow her and guarantee her safety. The man liked that idea and made a step to follow her, but Dmitri placed a hand on his arm.

"You must let this play out."

"But—"

"It's her choice."

A low rumble started deep in his chest. His inner beast was unhappy with this situation. He struggled to suppress the urge to give chase. He may not like his brother's words, but he spoke true. He forced himself to turn and head for his own cabin. He could use some alone time to consider the day's events.

# Chapter 4

Sylvia walked in a daze toward the cabin she shared with her sister. Charlotte's anger and how she might appease it should be a top concern, but it wasn't. Her sibling was always angry and right now, it was pushed to the furthest recesses of her mind.

No, her thoughts centered on Micah and how the day's events had played out. She'd felt drawn to him long before Dmitri's introduction. The vibration of his voice sent chills of awareness through her body. But, when he'd touched her, it was like an electric jolt to her system. Both reactions were a new experience for her.

She felt euphoric, yet at the same time, she feared the dream would be snatched away. Today was the day for a lot of firsts. Her first experience with attraction. The first time she'd ever trained in combat. The most prominent events from her day both involved Micah. No male had ever asked her to dinner before. Then there was the kiss. Her imagination would never compare to that life altering moment.

The revelation that he thought she was in heat topped it all though. She'd been stunned by his words. Then her sister showed up and slapped her with a huge dose of reality. She was twenty–five years old. What were the chances that she might struggle with her first heat cycle so late in life?

She stopped only a few feet from the cabin she shared with her sister. Charlotte wouldn't like the idea that Micah paid Sylvia extra attention or that he openly chose her. Her sibling was used to being the center of all male attention. She'd see this as an affront and that didn't bode well for anyone.

Charlotte's bouts of temper were legendary in the pack. Ultimately, Sylvia would pay for it all. She was already aware of the animosity Charlotte flung at her during training and the silent glares through dinner. It was only a matter of time until Charlotte found the opportunity to inflict her revenge.

Sylvia was surprised by the sharp tug of her hair. She turned to the left and ran smack into her sister's fist. Though she'd mentally prepared for an attack, she wasn't expecting this. A booted foot came up from her right and slammed into the back of her knee. She felt the hair rip from her scalp as her sister yanked hard.

Sylvia fell to the ground, her hip slammed into a rock. Kick after kick rained down on her. All she could do was cover her face. A few errant kicks penetrated the protection of her arms, but most landed elsewhere. Her ribs, legs, and hips were on fire, but still the punishment continued. This wasn't her sister alone as was common. No, she had help tonight.

The blows stopped as she felt someone jerk on her hair. She relaxed her tense muscles hoping that the torment for the day was through. She didn't think her body could handle much more.

"You need to remember your place, runt."

Her sister's words were followed by a hard slap. This one hit her square in the ear. Something wet landed on Sylvia's face and she was sure it wasn't water. Someone had spit on her. She heard the unmistakable sound of footsteps as those around her walked away from the woods and toward the cabin.

"Are we leaving her here?" Someone just above her left shoulder asked.

The voice wasn't familiar to her. She imagined it was the newest wolf to her sister's harem. He was young and a bit impetuous, the perfect addition for Charlotte's entourage.

"No, drag her into the woods," came a muffled response.

Her ears were ringing from the abuse she'd suffered. It was difficult to discern the voices at this point. Except for maybe her sister's voice, but only because she'd be the only female.

"Away from the cabin so she has further to crawl back," her sister suggested.

Sylvia wanted to cry, but held it in as two males wrenched her arms upward. They pulled her through the woods, uncaring that rocks and branches poked and scraped her body. They dropped her arms after about ten minutes, then each gave her an additional kick in the ribs for good measure.

Her body ached from their brutality. Sylvia was sure she had at least one cracked rib and a broken bone, both would heal within a few hours. She just needed to set the breaks to the best of her ability.

Charlotte picked the perfect time. No one would notice her absence until morning. Hopefully, by then most of her bruises and cuts would be healed as well.

Sylvia bit her lip hard in an attempt to hold back her scream of agony as she pushed the bone back through the skin and forced it into place. Her natural instinct was to swoon, but knew she must evaluate her surroundings before giving in to her body's desire.

She opened her eyes as wide as possible. Black dots swam along the edges of her vision as she attempted to gauge the area for noticeable threats. Sensing no danger, she gave in to the inevitable and let the darkness take her.

♥~♥~♥~♥

Sylvia woke, crying out in pain when she slammed her left arm into a hard object.

"Shh," the soothing words were whispered against her cheek as arms wrapped around her.

"We won't let that witch and her entourage hurt you anymore," another voice swore from her left as a hand smoothed down her hair.

"My sister," she corrected automatically, but her lips quirked, despite the pain, at the disparaging description. It was an apt characterization of Charlotte.

She breathed a labored sigh as her wayward thoughts brought memories of the night's attack. Sylvia wished to forget the latest cruelty perpetrated by her sibling. Instead, she focused on the murmurs of the two who held her.

The voices sounded similar, yet not the same. Two young teens, brothers more than likely. Their voices had yet to change completely. It wasn't difficult to distinguish the crack in syllables when they spoke.

She turned her head gazing at two identical faces as tears of pain slipped down her cheeks. She was helpless to hide the reaction and felt no need for the deception. With their close proximity, it would be difficult, if not impossible to hide the evidence of her damaged body. Even with her accelerated healing, she had no doubt that the bruises would remain visible until late tomorrow.

They had to be twins. The only difference she could see was the color of their eyes. Both held a fire, one the blue flame of a sapphire, the other green like the forest surrounding them. Who were these brave young boys that swore to protect a stranger? Sylvia wiped her tears, feeling foolish in the face of such determination and sincerity.

"Why would you promise such a thing?"

They stared back at her, stunned surprise on their too handsome faces. "It's our duty as a male wolf to protect those smaller than us."

As blues eyes roamed her diminutive frame, she felt a slight discomfort at such bold behavior. She also had a sense of familiarity. He reminded her of someone, but she couldn't place who and her head hurt too much to figure it out.

"How old are you?" the green-eyed boy asked with a flirtatious smile.

Sylvia fought the urge to roll her eyes. These boys couldn't be more than sixteen, despite their deceptive height and build. They carried an innocence about them that few adult males possessed. Though their eyes spoke of a hard life, they had yet to live it as a mature male.

"The better question is, how old are you?" she shot back as she sat up, wincing at the pain.

Their arms fell away instantly, but they kept a firm hold on her hand. Someone had taught them to respect another's space. They puffed their chest up, an act that she would normally find ridiculous, but somehow on them it only seemed charming.

"We turned fifteen last week."

"So old," she teased.

"Now you," demanded the little flirt.

Sylvia smiled at the two teens. She found no harm in being truthful with these boys. It wasn't like her age was some deep dark secret.

"I'm twenty-five, far too old for a scoundrel such as you."

"You look like a child," blue eyes stated rudely, though he never released his hold of comfort.

"I'm Hunter and the grouchy one is Cyril, but everyone calls him Cyr."

"I see. My name is Sylvia. Thank you for the offer of protection and the unexpected comfort."

"Does it hurt?" Cyr asked running his hand just above the surface of her cheek.

It was as if he knew not to touch her. That something so simple would increase her pain. She squinted at him through her swollen eyes, for the first time noticing the scar that ran from temple to mouth. Of course he knew, for someone had hurt him once too.

"Who would do such a thing to a child?" she demanded without thought.

Cyr jerked, turning away from her and she regretted her outburst. She felt the stroke of a hand against her back and tensed knowing what those callused fingers had found. Her blouse must have torn when they dragged her through the woods.

"It seems, you already know the answer to that question."

At his brother's words, Cyr twisted to glimpse at what Hunter saw. Sylvia fought against the urge to cringe and hide her scars from them. Closing her eyes, she steadied her breathing in an attempt to relax.

"I fell out of a tree," she admitted as she pulled the torn fabric together.

Sylvia decided it was unnecessary to add that her sister stomped on her hands before she lost her precarious grip. Charlotte had sworn it was an accident, but even then, Sylvia understood her sibling's vicious nature. She'd fallen a good fifteen feet, breaking the occasional branch on her way down.

As a were–child, a fall from that height would normally have only stunned and bruised. Their resilient nature and innate healing ability made recklessness a common occurrence in the young. In this case, her landing became the issue. Impaling one's self on an iron rod wasn't a usual inducement of a speedy recovery.

Her stomach tightened at the memory of how close to death she'd actually come. An inch in the opposite direction and she would've pierced her heart. It was the last time she remembered her mother ever being upset on her behalf.

"No doubt you had help," Hunter mumbled.

Sylvia decided to ignore the comment. While, grateful to these boys for their help, it was time to make the trek home. Considering the stars twinkling above her, she figured an hour or two had passed. Her damaged bones hadn't healed completely. Thoughts of Micah crowded her mind and she found herself grateful that he'd not see her like this.

A noise to their left sent tension running through her body, but the boys spun away from her into a protective stance. A sniff of the breeze and they relaxed instantly.

"What are you boys— Sylvia?"

Great... Sylvia scowled as she wondered if her thoughts had summoned the man who stood on the edge of the forest. Micah stepped toward them, confusion on his features.

"We like her, dad. Can we keep her?"

Hunter's outrageous words would've made her laugh if not for the stunned revelation. Dad? Micah had children? Did that mean he was mated too? No, after the way he'd reacted toward her today, she highly doubted it. Admittedly, she didn't know him well, but he seemed noble. Too honorable to flirt with a female when he had a mate. She'd never believe him capable of such a thing.

"Over here," Micah shouted ignoring his son's words as he moved toward them.

Dmitri, Grigor, and Markus, along with several other men she didn't recognize crashed through the trees at a run. Their abrupt invasion of what was once a tranquil hidey–hole wreaked havoc on her sense of calm.

The boys reached a hand toward her, but Micah growled and snatched her against his body. While she bit back the pain from his abrupt actions, her insides warmed at his protective touch. She sighed unwilling to allow animosity between a father and his children she attempted to turn and explain.

The moon chose that moment to peek out from the clouds illuminating the small space. A chorus of snarls erupted. Sylvia was shocked to find them directed toward Cyr and Hunter. In another uncharacteristic move and despite the extreme pain she jerked out of Micah's grasp and placed herself protectively in front of the teens. Though surprised at her move, it took both boys less than a millisecond to maneuver her into a position behind them.

Startled but concerned, she peered around the tall figures using their own bodies as a shield of protection. The adult males though still angry held a look of bewilderment on their faces. They appeared to be just as confused as she was.

"Explain," came the demanding voice of Dmitri. The command in his words was powerful. She fought the desire to cower at his feet from its intimidating strength.

"We were bored and decided to take a walk," Hunter offered.

"You were supposed to be cleaning stalls," one of the men she didn't recognize stated.

Hunter hung his head at the reprimand, but Cyr seemed unfazed. Sylvia fought a smile despite the circumstances. The teens were too adorable by half. She could picture Micah exactly like them at that age.

"It was a good thing we did because who knows what would've happened to our new friend," Cyr stated firmly.

"It's never a good thing to ignore your responsibilities," Grigor reprimanded. "Now, tell us what happened," he coaxed.

"We were following the old path on our way to the backside of compound land when we came across a group making lots of noise and kicking at something on the ground."

"Before we could reveal ourselves a woman ordered the men to drag whatever they were beating off," Hunter stated. "But—"

"She said to take 'her' into the forest where she'd have further to crawl," Cyr interrupted scowling at his brother.

"Why didn't you go for help?" someone demanded.

Sylvia noticed that Micah remained quiet as he watched and listened, but she could feel his rage simmer just under the surface. Why was he so angry?

"We thought it was better to follow them and make sure she was okay," Hunter offered.

"I'm glad you boys found her," Micah growled. He reached for both teens, but Cyr stepped back before he could touch him. Dropping his hands, he turned away. "Go on back to the barracks now."

Ignoring their father's words, both males turned toward her. "Will you be all right?"

She nodded in the affirmative and they touched her hand offering a shy smile before stalking into the trees. Sylvia wasn't keen on how the twins were treated by these adults. She didn't care about their story, they were heroes in her book and deserved the proper recognition. Before she could scold the others for their poor treatment, Micah swept her off the ground and cradled her in his strong arms. She lost her anger immediately at his gentle, yet protective behavior.

"Let's take her to the infirmary and have a medic look her over," Dmitri suggested.

Micah didn't argue, he just turned and headed through the woods. Sylvia was past caring. The day's events had caught up with her. She was tired and just wanted to rest in the comfort of Micah's arms. What was it about this wolf that drew her to him so easily? She trusted him implicitly. She would contemplate that conundrum another time, right now she just wanted sleep.

Whispered words drifted toward her. "Does he realize—"

"No," three men snarled interrupting the male's words.

She was too exhausted to dwell on their conversation. Closing her eyes, she let the rhythm and sway of Micah's careful steps lull her to sleep.

# Chapter 5

Sylvia stretched her sore muscles as her eyes wandered the unfamiliar room. She didn't remember much after the medic examined her. Just that Micah had stayed with her, holding her hand. He'd left sometime in the middle of the night. She had a vague memory of waking to the first rays of the sun and the emptiness of her room.

Her door swung open and a perky female bustled her way through, dragging a tray. She looked up from her struggles and smiled.

"Good, you're awake. I brought you some breakfast. Lots of meat and protein to help the healing process along," she assured as she leaned toward the bed, a pen light in her hand. "Just follow the light with your eyes."

Sylvia tried not to flinch or close her eyes as the medic nearly blinded her with the brightness. She remembered how the morning after went in incidents like these. After all, her sister's brutality was a common occurrence. Charlotte was just usually more circumspect in her tirades.

"What's the prognosis?" Sylvia asked already knowing the answer.

"No long term damage or scarring. You'll be sore for another day maybe, but most of the bruising and cuts are healed. You did a decent job of setting the breaks so we didn't need to re–break the bones," the medic offered with a smile.

Sylvia returned the smile, not wishing to be rude. She really just wanted to leave. The medic was wrong. Her healing abilities were better than most wolves. Already the pain subsided and she only felt an occasional twinge.

She really didn't like medical facilities of any kind, but at least this place was better than most of the human hospitals her mother forced her to visit. The female alpha alleviated her day to day boredom with charity work and forced Sylvia to accompany her.

It wasn't that Sylvia didn't feel sympathy for their plight, it was the torment she sensed. For some reason, humans believed in prolonging their loved ones suffering. She didn't understand why they wouldn't just let them die peacefully. Then, of course, there was the smell...

She may be defective in many ways, but her olfactory receptors worked phenomenally. If she'd been born male, she might have become a tracker. Naturally, she would also have to not be a runt or klutzy. She sighed as her deficiencies were too numerous to count and just added depression to the long list of flaws.

She thought of her sister, and the reason behind her stay in this sterile environment. Charlotte was exempt from the dreadful visits because she was a viable female. In other words, her mother didn't wish their prospects for political gain to be diminished by the stench of medicine and death.

Sylvia wondered what had set her sibling off to such an extreme. Charlotte usually held back around strangers. The extent of her brutality last night, along with her insistence that her body be dumped in the woods was a clear message. But, for who?

Unfortunately, thanks to Sylvia's super-fast curative abilities, most of Charlotte's torturous behavior went unnoticed or unchecked by their parents. Not that Sylvia truly believed her mother would intervene. In the past, Charlotte's fear of punishment from their father outweighed her need for retribution. Yesterday was a blatant attack, so different from Charlotte's normal m.o. that Sylvia feared for her life.

Distracted with her own thoughts and the shoe she tried to slip into, Sylvia hadn't noticed the medic sat next to her on the bed.

"Can I go then?" Sylvia asked. She tried desperately not to sound rude, but her abrupt question held no semblance of politeness.

"Sure, but only after you eat." The girl followed her statement up with another smile.

"Thanks," Sylvia stated, chagrinned.

The medic seemed sweet, she'd eat the food as requested, and then escape. She needed to call her dad and hope she could convince him to send her home without too many questions. In a hurry, she shoveled the food into her mouth at an alarming rate, but she didn't care about manners right now.

She nearly choked on the latest bite as the main door banged open. Micah stood on the threshold a scowl on his face. Sylvia wondered who pissed in his cheerios as she shoved another spoonful of sausage and eggs between her lips.

"Where are you going?" he asked almost petulantly as he stared at her shoes.

His behavior reminded Sylvia of a sulking child. She almost giggled at the thought. Such a hulking giant the very personification of a gloomy Gus, ridiculous.

"To my cabin."

"You were severally injured. Don't you think it would be better to stay here a while longer?" he asked with concern.

"No, I need a shower and new clothes," she stated holding the torn pieces of her shirt out for emphasis.

He turned to the medic. "How is she?"

Sylvia narrowed her gaze at the man who was now ignoring her. Did he just dismiss her? She growled in frustration as she listened to the medic drone on about her injuries and how well she'd healed in such a short time.

"I've already cleared her to leave," the medic clarified.

"Are you sure?" he asked.

The concern in his voice almost soothed her irritation. Then he had to ruin it with a glare in her direction.

"I'm fine," Sylvia snapped as she jumped from the bed. She turned to the medic. "Thanks for everything." She pivoted on her heel, ignoring Micah completely and stomped out of the building.

She was grateful for the wolf's concern, if not a little uncomfortable. No one beside her father had ever truly cared for her welfare. She just wasn't sure she could trust it. She worried that it wouldn't last. Eventually, everyone sided with her sister.

Micah grabbed her arm pulling her to a stop. Her bicep tingled from the contact. What was it about this wolf that completely unsettled her?

"Where are you going?" he demanded with a growl.

"I told you, I need a shower and a change of clothes."

"I'll escort you."

Panic set in at his words. She couldn't allow him near her cabin. Sylvia had no idea how her sister would react when she arrived and held no desire for others to witness the scene. It was odd that no one asked who had attacked her, but she refused to concern herself with the details. At the moment, she just wanted to get rid of her shadow. She plastered a fake smile on her face and avoided eye contact.

"Thank you for the offer, but that's not necessary."

"Actually, it is." She frowned at his words but refused to glance up. "The alpha has ordered that you maintain an escort for the duration of your stay."

The alpha had ordered her protection? She was touched by Dmitri's worry. Micah moved his palm in small circles from elbow to shoulder, intensifying the electrical charge. She tugged at her arm in an attempt to be free of him, but he held tight. She sighed, giving up.

"Fine."

She turned to continue walking, but he held tight and she fell back into his chest. His lips brushed her ear, his breath tickling the tiny hairs at her temple.

"I can tell when someone lies," he whispered and she swallowed loudly. "You're so bad at it, even a novice could see right through you."

Sylvia didn't know whether to be insulted or laugh at his words. Her lips twitched into a semblance of a smile allowing humor to win out over outrage. He nipped her ear playfully, then tugged on her arm propelling them forward.

She didn't recognize the area he hauled her through. She had an eidetic memory with total recall of any place she'd been to before. She'd never traveled this particular path.

"Where are we going?"

"My cabin is closer. You can take a shower and change there." He looked her up and down. Sylvia fought the urge to cross her arms. "My wife was taller than you, but she liked wearing outrageously short clothes. We should be able to find something suitable." She opened her mouth to decline his offer, but he slashed his hand at her. "That's not a request. Here we are."

As they stepped through the trees, she gasped at the vision before her. A single story log cabin sat on several acres of open land. The centerpiece of the building was an arched picture window surrounded by whitewashed wood. The glass was dark and reflective. She could see herself and Micah, as well as the forest that stretched out behind her for miles. A covered porch wrapped around both sides of the house. She wondered if it continued to the back, but refrained from asking. A heavy wooden door sat to the left of the window done in a darker wood.

Furniture sat sporadically on the porch, but the swing to the far right caught her attention. It sat in the perfect spot to look out over the acreage. Sunset from that vantage point would be beautiful. The breeze brought the aroma of berries and apples. Her mouth watered as she followed the scent to a small groove that sat a few hundred feet from the house.

"Breathtaking..." she whispered.

"Do you think so?" he asked nervously.

"Oh, yes." she stated giving him her best smile.

"I built it many years ago, but I've made a lot of improvements over the past few years."

Sylvia frowned at his words. Memories of the twins flooded her and the fact that they were his sons. She tried to recall any rumors she might have overheard about Micah or the pack in general. Nothing substantial about a mate came to mind.

Well, except the story about the demented female who tried to kill her own child. That was just a story told to scare the young and naive though. Wasn't it? She thought of Cyr's scar and it made her pause. Could such a thing really have happened? A half-mad female who partially shifted before attempting to rip her son's heart out?

"Your..." her voice cracked forcing her to clear her throat before she could continue. "Your wife didn't like it?"

"Eva?" He shook his head sadly. "She thought it was too rustic and isolated."

"Well, it is isolated," she stated hesitantly. "Still, she was a fool to not enjoy it. The simplicity of its beauty is astounding."

He beamed at Sylvia, guiding her up the stairs and through the door. Her thoughts were a muddled mess as his smile hypnotized her.

"The shower is to the right," he offered.

She followed his directions and easily found the large bathroom. She liked the rooms design, with the toilet and shower behind a half wall on one side of the room and a clawed bathtub behind another. A large countertop covered the far wall and made up the centerpiece of the room. A sink sat on either side of the solid surface with an oval mirror hung above each.

Two windows sat open, high on the wall above the counter. Sylvia imagined it was partially for natural light during the day, and to keep the room ventilated. The opposite wall was one solid mirror from floor to ceiling. The surface was etched with silver wolves, depicting a multitude of scenes.

She tried to concentrate on the elegance of the room, but at every turn her reflection stared back at her. The reminder of her need for a shower and fresh clothes was difficult to ignore. With a sigh, she leaned in and turned the shower on. As the steam filled the opulent room, she shrugged out of her clothes.

The torn mess landed in a heap on the tiled floor. She frowned at the destruction. They were unsalvageable. She cringed at the thought of having to ask her mother for money to replace the items. She was sure the experience would not be pleasant.

Not that her mother was intentionally cruel. She just saw clothing as an extravagance needed only for those who were required to make a good impression on others. Since most believed Sylvia defective, it was unnecessary for her to impress others. Therefore, her wardrobe allowance was limited. Her tight-fisted parent would not wish to part with more funds, especially since this would be the third time this year that an outfit was destroyed.

Sylvia shook her head as the sounds of cascading water drew her toward the shower. All these thoughts could be addressed later. She sighed as the water fell around her. The combination of the pounding droplets and the steam released the last of her tension. She closed her eyes, for now she just wanted the hot water and some soap.

# Chapter 6

As Micah waited for Sylvia in the kitchen, he wondered at his possessive behavior. When he'd overheard her request to leave, his wolf snarled at its confines, which had prompted his forceful entrance into the room. Both the man and beast regretted the initial fear that she revealed. The fact that she relaxed instantly, once his identity was determined did not go unnoticed, either. She trusted him.

The attraction between the two of them had been a palpable thing from the very beginning, but now he wanted more. Yesterday's kiss was spontaneous, but it woke something in him that he couldn't explain. He didn't believe it was all based on her heat cycle either. He genuinely liked her and felt a deep desire to get to know her better. He was unsure of the cause, but he couldn't deny its existence. His wolf wanted her as well.

The inner beast who shared so much of his psyche with him had never shown an interest before. The interaction between the creature and his mate was minimal. He protected Eva because she was the man's choice of a mate. It was a responsibility, not a compulsion.

All the things so many mated pairs spoke of, the deep-seated need to be by her side, the desire to touch and comfort, hell even the insatiable lust — nonexistent. The only time he had ever felt even a modicum of the frenzied hunger was during their courting period. Once the mating became official, the hunger dissipated and he had no understanding of why.

With Sylvia, it was all new, different. Micah had looked forward to last night's dinner. He'd arrived unusually early in the hopes of having a few more moments with her before the others intruded, but she'd arrived late. He'd never wanted that kind of interaction with Eva.

From the moment she appeared through the trees he had been anxious. Charlotte's narrow-eyed glares through dinner had left him uneasy. The confrontation in the woods unsettled his wolf even more. He'd been restless after Sylvia left him and had ended up back at the pack house.

Micah was relieved when Dmitri offered to send someone to check on her. When the sentry returned with a report that the cabin was empty, panic set in. An inquiry into Charlotte's whereabouts determined she'd left the compound with her people not long after their encounter. The fact that she'd blatantly ignored Dmitri's edict had angered the alpha.

When the gate guards were questioned, they denied the presence of another female. That negative answer prompted a search for the missing sister. When they'd found Sylvia bloody and bruised, sitting in the twins presence, he'd become enraged.

Until she lay cuddled in his arms, there'd been no satiating the beast. His sons had understood that his wolf lingered close to the surface and feared for Sylvia's safety. That was their reason for challenging him. The fact that they wished to protect her after such a short acquaintance said a lot for the tiny female.

In less than an hour, she'd circumvented Cyr's distaste for the touch of another, and Hunter's natural distrust. She'd been snuggled up to Cyr's bare chest while Hunter flirted with her. To say the scene had shocked him was a complete understatement. Even Dmitri had been stunned by their reaction toward Sylvia.

A soft breeze fluttered through the open window, pushing the curtains so that rays of light could stream into the kitchen. Just then, Sylvia came around the corner, her hair cascading down her back in waves that fell to her knees. His breath caught as nature allowed the long tresses to shimmer and dance, basking in the sun's natural light. He would have never guessed that she hid so much hair tied up in the tight braid she always wore.

She was the personification of beauty. A creamy complexion with round curves in all the right places. Though short, her legs were long with rounded thighs and an ass that begged to be noticed.

She wore the clothes he'd left for her. A pair of charcoal sweet pants that belonged to one of the twins and one of his own t–shirts. Despite his large size, the shirt fit snuggly around her breasts and billowed at the waist. He held back a snicker at the fact that it hung to her knees when the wind wasn't attempting to use it as a sail.

Sylvia glared at him as if she knew his thoughts. He shivered at the possibility, knowing that the twins' mother had never been able to communicate in such a way. What was it about this female that left him afloat on a sea of uncertainty?

His eyes widened and a wave of lust hit him as she brought the end of the shirt to her hips and tied it on both sides. The result emphasized her breasts and showed off a rather tone abdomen. Bending over she pulled the elastic to just below her knee, showing off her calves.

For the first time, he realized that her frumpy clothes had deceived him. He'd never considered her fat, though he knew others said as much. With her style of clothes, he assumed she would be plump and soft. As evidenced by the more form fitted clothing, she was firm and shapely. There was not an ounce of fat that he could see. Her wide hips and large breasts gave the illusion of soft, but she was all rounded curves and solid muscle. She wasn't bulky either. Her muscles were tone, but not cut. The perfect counter balance for a female.

They needed to leave the house, and quickly before he found a way to talk her out of the clothes she just put on. He thought of her beating and an idea formed. A way to distract them both and help her better protect herself.

She hadn't discussed last night's attack, but she really didn't have to. Her sister's scent was too prominent for her to not have been involved. He also picked up on a half a dozen male wolves. Probably her pack members. Markus had found the primary sight of her assault. He suspected a blitz attack a few hundred feet from the guest cabin.

She'd almost been to her rooms. They all wondered at the reason for such a blatant strike. Charlotte could've waited, assailed her inside the building. Less of a chance at discovery until after she healed that way. So why drag her deeper into the woods and place her on a well-traveled path? She wanted Sylvia to be found. The question was, why?

"Let's go," he stated grabbing for her arm.

"Where?" she asked dodging his hand.

Micah hid a smile behind his palm. She was getting better at evasion.

"My barn."

Micah nearly groaned as she hesitated, biting her lip. Her cheeks pinkened as her pupil's dilated. He could just imagine what kind of naughty thoughts she was chasing around in that little brain of hers.

"Why?" she husked.

He shook his head in an attempt to clear the wayward thoughts from his mind. She needed guidance, not molestation.

"I have a training facility inside."

"I don't need—"

"Considering the shape we found you in only a few hours ago, I think you need plenty of practice," he declared cutting her off.

She frowned at him, but then nodded her assent. He grabbed her hand propelling them both toward the back of the property.

♥~♥~♥~♥

Sylvia examined the barn Micah used for training. It was an open design with support poles spread throughout. The only full wall was on the backside, but each side had a half wall about ten feet out and around seven feet high. The total height of the structure ranged about twelve feet. The back wall and roof held a multitude of bars and rings in different sizes and lengths. In some places, their shapes were even odd. It reminded her of an obstacle course.

The ground was packed dirt, sprinkled with hay. Bales were spread intermittently around the perimeter. A small ring sat in the center of the building. Memories of yesterday's sparring assailed her and she smiled. Her defense was terrible, but he hadn't hesitated to kiss her. Her face heated at the possibility of more opportunities to explore the art of kissing.

"So, what do you think?" Micah asked interrupting her thoughts.

"It's nice, a lot of space to train," she offered with a weak smile, not really sure what to say.

"I built it for the twins a few years ago. Males tend to have a lot of excess energy. This always helped them burn it off. When I'm home from assignment, I tend to spend a lot of time in here myself." He patted his stomach. "It keeps me fit in my old age."

She smiled at his ridiculous statement. Shifters didn't get fat. Changing to their animal form burned a lot of energy. They made up for that by eating foods high in protein, mostly meats.

"Your sons are great."

"They are," he snarled.

She wondered at his irritation. Was he jealous of his own sons? She watched him take his shirt off and nearly fainted on the spot. His abs were defined to perfection. Nope, he had no worries about how he compared to two fifteen-year-old boys, even if they were shifters. He would make an angel weep with his sex appeal. Her body warmed as she examined his torso. The smell of forest clung to him and even from this distance her senses were overrun with desire.

She took a deep breath in an attempt to calm her nervousness and her now active libido. Something she'd never had to worry about until Micah. The wolves from her father's territory never gave her the time of day. Charlotte's pleasure was always more important.

Here the wolves had been nicer, more courteous. Some even seemed interested. They were all gorgeous male specimens, of course. But, none made her tingle with just a look or sent volts of electricity thrumming through her body from a mere touch.

She needed to relax and concentrate on his teachings. Learning how to defend herself was not a wasted effort. Though last night's incident was unusual, her sister had many unstable moments.

"Where do we begin?"

"Come here," he whispered motioning with his hand.

Sylvia swallowed the lump in her throat and stepped forward with trepidation. She felt unstable all of a sudden and was unsure how wise it would be to have Micah's unclothed body so close to her own. He slid his arm around her waist, his palm touched her bare midriff. His fingers flexed against her belly while Sylvia fought a low throated moan that wished to escape.

He wrapped his leg around her own and moisture pulled between her thighs. She became disoriented, like she was falling. She landed face first into a pile of hay bringing her out of her semi daydream. The realization that he'd used her attraction for him to his advantage riled her. She scowled at him from her position on the ground.

"You need to stay focused," he admonished.

She narrowed her eyes at him. Did his lips just twitch? He was playing with her. Micah leaned in with his palm held out for her. She reached for his hand and rolled. He lost his balance from the unexpected action. Mid–fall he shifted his position so that he landed to the side of her, rather than allow her to bare his entire weight. Oddly, she felt a twinge of disappointment at that last minute change.

"You were saying?" she asked with a grin. She desperately tried to keep her tangled emotional state out of her expression.

He rolled and hopped to his feet, no longer hiding a smile. "Again? We have a few hours to kill."

She shrugged and took the hand he proffered once more. This time she slammed her elbow into his gut before he had a chance to blink. She smiled at his bent figure. He was definitely a fun distraction.

# Chapter 7

He pinned her to the ground, her hair blew across her face. The breeze had increased since the start of their lessons. Using his left hand, he brushed the locks that blocked her vision to the side. Her eyes glittered purple fire as the sun peaked out between the building storm clouds. They would need to seek shelter soon, but for now he sat immobile, transfixed by her aura.

"Ty krasivaya."

Her breath came in shallow gasps as she worked to bring her body under control. The exertion of their workout had taken a toll. Sweat glistened across her exposed flesh, intensifying her already irresistible scent. This woman tested his very limits.

"I'm sorry, I don't understand," she stated confused.

"Do you not speak the language of our people?" he asked with a frown.

"Ahh, it was German?"

"Russian. Do you not know your history?"

"Mine? Yes, but I descend from an ancient Nordic line."

Micah helped her sit up feeling uncomfortable in such a dominant position. It brought images to mind that he should not be considering. He found it difficult to resist the draw to her. It was as if her very essence called to him.

"Yes, I remember now. Your family descended from the Vikings."

She smiled and his breath caught.

"It is said that we have the blood of the berserker in us."

The pride in her words were endearing.

"A noble thing indeed."

Her smile faltered and a sense of melancholy replaced her joy. Micah disliked the change in her.

"Blood isn't always a blessing."

"Why would you say such a thing?" he asked.

"Look at me. A runt, worth nothing to the pack. I disgrace my family, and the noble line we descend from."

She flung her hands in front of her body as if she dared him to deny her words. She seemed disgusted at what she saw. He didn't see the problem. She was tiny, but fierce. He liked that. Her dominant nature hidden inside a pint sized package. It endeared her to him. A part of him respected her strength, but at the same time he felt compelled to protect her. He would start by telling her the truth.

"What rubbish." Her head shot up, eyes rounded in surprise at his words. He enjoyed her like this, unguarded. "You have an inner strength few possess. Mix that with your sense of fairness, your compassion, and a loyalty few can contest and it makes you a remarkable being. The fact that you are a female is just a bonus."

Her face turned a deep crimson at his praise. He truly liked her this way. All flustered, her color heightened to a rosy hue. She was beauty incarnate.

"Careful, for you will turn my head with such flattery."

"Not flattery, but truth." They stared at each other, a flicker of uncertainty reflected in her eyes, but it was the hope that drew him in. "As I said, Ty krasivaya." He leaned in and brushed his lips against hers, unable to resist the pull any longer.

"What does it mean?" she asked breathlessly.

Her eyes remained closed. He rubbed his thumb along her lower lip, the moisture from their shared kiss reflected the light.

"You are beautiful," he whispered.

She blinked, her eyes wide with shock. Did she truly believe the rhetoric spewed by the others? How could such an intelligent female be so blind to her own allure? It angered him to know they had beat her self-esteem down to such a degree.

"Your beauty stuns me."

She bowed her head, hiding her face. He didn't understand the attraction between the two of them, but he no longer wished to fight it. Her heat cycle was nearly full blown, and yet none of her pack had taken measures to protect her from the frenzy. Their blatant disregard for her safety said much. He wanted to offer himself as protector, but his past made that an impossibility. Maybe he could do something to ease her though. Her empathy and instant acceptance of his sons deserved repayment.

"Why do you stare at me so?" she asked wringing her hands in distress.

"Your heat draws closer," he stated.

She flinched at his words but didn't try to hide. "If you say so."

"It's a fact Sylvia. Denial changes nothing."

"I don't know—"

Micah shook his head in frustration. "By the time you come to your senses, it could be too late."

"It will be fine—"

"No, it won't. I'd like to help."

"How?"

Micah hesitated before answering. He was unsure how she'd react to his offer, but it was something he'd thought about all night. Something both the man and beast agreed they wanted to do for her.

"Let me ease your burden."

♥~♥~♥~♥

"Ease my burden?" Sylvia repeated unsure how to react to his words.

Did he mean he wanted to assist her during her cycle? She blushed at the image that thought conjured. He couldn't possibly be serious. If he was, could she really take him up on the offer? For that matter, could she actually turn him away? She doubted it. What a conundrum she'd stepped into.

"Yes, we both know it's common for a male to help a female through her — distress."

"Distress?" she giggled at the thought of using such a simple word to describe what most females called a torturous event.

He scowled at her outburst and she took great pains to reel in her laughter. None of this was really humorous. It both confused and excited her, a dangerous combination.

"Well?" he asked clearing his throat?

What could she say to him? The obvious answer would be a resounding, yes. The true questions weren't, did she want him to, or even would she let him. No, the true question was, could she walk away after.

She was attracted to him. In that, there was no doubt. The problem was, over the last two days she'd become attached to him, even grown to care for him. Was it possible to have such strong feelings for one person in such a short time? She knew shifters were different than humans, more intense. Their inner animals tended to guide them toward their destiny.

"Why?"

"There are many reasons. The most evident is that I'm enticed by your allure."

"Hmm."

She didn't know what to say to that. She didn't want it to be about duty or guilt, but that was more believable than his supposed attraction.

Micah placed his palm against her cheek. Startled, she looked up. His lips descended without a warning. She didn't fight his seduction, but neither did she give in to the lure.

"Don't dismiss my offer. You need this, but more to the point, we both want it. Let me ease your heat and introduce you to pleasure."

His plea, along with the sporadic kisses he spread across her neck and shoulder were her undoing.

"Yes," she agreed, hiding her face in his chest.

He grasped her chin with his long fingers and raised her head. Their gazes locked, they both stared for long moments before he spoke.

"Never be ashamed of what we share."

She nodded giving him a tremulous smile. He swung her up into his arms and grinned when she squealed.

"Where are we going?"

He raised an eyebrow and kissed her lips once more before nuzzling her ear.

"Inside. Where I can strip you naked without worrying about interruption."

"Now?" she squeaked. She hadn't expected things to move so quickly. "I thought you meant sometime in the next few days. Not, right now."

"Oh no, my pretty wolf. If I give you time to think on it, you will find a reason to reverse your decision. I'm just selfish enough to take advantage of that."

His devilish grin thrilled her as did his words. She had a choice, either go with the flow or deny them both. She had no doubt he'd stop at any time if she said no, but truthfully, she didn't want to. Giving in to impulse and desire, she wrapped her arms around his neck and nipped the underside of his chin. The result was a very wolf-like growl of pleasure and an increase in speed. Instead of fearing what was to come she relaxed into his arms and giggled as he rushed toward the cabin.

# Chapter 8

Micah kicked the front door shut, not bothering to stop beyond the necessities. He made his way toward the master bedroom. He'd never considered bringing another female into the home he'd shared with his wife for so many years.

As he looked around the room, he found himself relieved that he'd renovated the cabin since Eva's death. This room was something he added just last year. He'd built the bed himself after he burnt their marriage bed.

Honestly, he'd destroyed most of the things that they shared. He wanted no visual reminders of Eva. Enough memories haunted these walls.

Putting his past where it belonged — behind him. He released Sylvia's legs allowing her body to slide down his with erotic slowness.

His finger elongated into a claw and with one swipe he sliced through his shirt and her bra. He sucked in a sharp breath as her breasts were exposed to his sight. Her skin reminded him of peaches and cream, lighter than the rest of her body. Her nipples were a delicate pink, like the bud of a newly blossomed rose.

"Exquisite," he breathed. "I must taste you."

He waited tortured seconds until Sylvia nodded her consent. He wanted her there with him every step of the way. He just needed to remind his wolf that this was a selfless act for her pleasure. Not their own. It seemed the beast didn't wish to listen he thought with disgust as he watched the same claw slice through her pants as well. The destroyed cloth fell harmlessly to the floor.

She now stood in a dark purple pair of panties and nothing else. Her cheeks were a crimson hue, but she didn't try to hide or cover herself. This pleased both the man and the beast.

Lifting her, he placed her on the edge of the bed and bent his head. His mouth zeroed in on her pebbled nipple. His tongue snaked out and swirled around the beaded flesh before sucking it into his mouth. He palmed her other breast squeezing with gentle pressure. The move elicited a moan from Sylvia's lips as she arched into his body. He accommodated her need with a sharp pinch to the nipple.

The air filled with the aroma of her arousal. His animal was pleased, she liked his touch.

"I need you," she snarled tearing at his zipper.

He grabbed her hands and eased back. Her wolf was close to the surface, which meant her frenzy was near. He needed to find a way to ease her inner beast. Once the frenzy hit, there would be no turning back.

Her wolf would demand and he'd accommodate without conscious thought. Their animals would be in control, and they would be observers. Her wolf wouldn't consider her body's acceptance of his great size or its readiness. His wolf would struggle with itself over the need to protect and its desire to fulfill her every wish. In the end, the frenzy always wins out over common sense. He'd like her to be prepared before that happened. He had no desire to hurt her, though some pain was inevitable. The first heat cycle was never easy for any female.

"Sweetheart?" Micah touched Sylvia's cheek. Unfocused pupils gazed back at him, but he could see she was still there. A barely restrained control was better than nothing at this point. "We need to appease your wolf's desire."

Her look of confusion said so much, but she only nodded. "How?" she asked.

His wolf wanted to howl at the level of her trust. She didn't question or doubt him even for a second. If pleased both the man and the beast.

"You need my semen in your body."

Her hands trembled, but she didn't hesitate in reaching for her underwear. He placed his hands over hers and shook his head.

"I don't—"

He kissed her lips effectively cutting off her words. He didn't need her to vocalize her confusion. It was obvious in every movement or glance.

"Your body isn't ready. If we — come together, in that way right now I will tear you apart." Her eyes rounded at his words, but he gave her a lingering kiss until she relaxed once more. "I will prepare you before the frenzy hits fully. You will be sore tomorrow, there will be no helping that, but I can make the transition — easier."

"I don't understand."

He touched her cheek. "I know you don't." He took a deep calming breath. Trying to explain things to her wasn't easy for him, but he wanted her prepared, not scared. "Right now we need to..." he searched his mind for the right words.

She placed her palm over his. "I trust you," she offered with a tremulous smile.

He kissed the tip of her nose. He knew it wasn't a very romantic gesture, but it made her smile. The ease of tension helped them both.

"We need to take the edge off." He hesitated not sure how much she'd discussed with her mother.

He was uncomfortable with the latest slang term of blowjob, but the older words were just as crass. How did one say to an innocent: suck my cock until you swallow my semen? He ran his hands through his hair. He was ill prepared for this situation, and only now understood how complicated such circumstances could become.

"How?" she asked again, eyes downcast.

"You must take me in your mouth," he blurted out in frustration.

Her head snapped up, instead of fear he saw heat in the depth of her gaze. Her mouth formed the perfect O, and then she licked her lips as if in anticipation of what was to come.

He smiled, relieved that he hadn't scared her. Excited even, that she might look forward to the act. "You like the idea," he stated unable to keep the pleasure from his tone.

"Yes," she purred all shyness gone from her demeanor.

"Good, now get on your knees and open up."

She didn't hesitate clambering to her knees like an excited puppy. The way her ass wiggled in anticipation and the bounce of her breasts made his cock throb painfully as he slid the zipper down. Pre–cum seeped from the tip as it sprang from its confines. Without hesitation, she bent down and licked it clean.

He grabbed a fistful of her hair, yanking her head back as he pushed between her lips. "Suck it."

She complied instantly to his forceful demand drawing his cock deeper into the warm recesses of her mouth. Her eyes dilated and she sucked greedily as he pumped into her. Her tongue swirled and he groaned pushing deeper, faster.

Her breasts bounced invitingly with each thrust, an offering he couldn't resist. Using his free hand, he rolled the already hardened nipple between his fingers. Giving a gentle tug with each forward thrust. She seemed to be a natural and he knew he wouldn't last long. When she reached up and rolled his balls in the palm of her dainty hand, it was his undoing. He shoved forward, his cock touching the back of her throat as his seed splashed against her tonsils.

"Swallow," he demanded.

His growl of approval echoed through the room as she complied without incident. His cock still at half-mast, he pulled it from her lips and flipped her onto her back.

She landed with a surprised squeak. Her head hanging over the edge of the bed, hands gripping the bedspread while her legs flopped open, knees bent. He didn't wait for her to stop bouncing before he reached between her legs, using his half-formed claw to slice through the material. In what seemed like one smooth motion, he grasped her breast in his palms, pushed his cock between the pillowy depths and face planted himself between her thighs. His tongue delved into her secret places while his cock plowed between her generous mounds.

He could feel her breath against his balls as he thrust forward. The taste of her spices was like ambrosia on his tongue. He wanted to use his fingers, to press them inside her and feel the walls tighten and stretch around them. To prepare her for his final claiming, but it would have to wait. His wolf wanted to fuck her tits until her belly was covered with his fluids. The man had no objections, and neither did their female.

The wolf howled with pleasure as he felt her wet mouth wrap around his sac. She rolled her tongue over its surface letting his own body movements control the tug of her lips. He shoved his tongue into her channel and allowed her hips to set the pace of its invasion. Within minutes her legs trembled and her hands attempted to smother him in her pussy juices as she came with a scream. The vibration was too much and he exploded, semen shooting across her belly.

He eased back, pleased with their progress so far and wanting to see the sexual glow that she would radiate in the aftermath of her orgasm. She surprised him when instead of taking the blanket to wipe herself clean she massaged the liquid into her skin with her fingers and palm spreading it over her stomach and across her breasts until the liquid dried. He grinned at her, extremely pleased with her actions.

"Now what?" she asked with a shy smile as she licked the excess off her fingers.

Goddess above, she was sexy as hell. A surprising circumstance for such an innocently virginal creature. He liked that all this was for him, that no other had ever experienced this side of her. He was concerned with the possessiveness of his wolf, but he'd come too far to turn back now.

"Now, I use my fingers and tongue to make you explode at least a half dozen more times."

Her eyes widened at his proclamation and he just laughed.

♥~♥~♥~♥

Sylvia gasped as he wrapped his palms around her waist and flipped her onto her stomach, tossing her toward the top of the bed in the process. She smothered a laugh at his high-handed behavior. He flung her around like she was his own personal play doll. Hmm, Sylvia the sex doll. She giggled at the idea.

He lifted her hips and placed a pillow under her. The result was her ass sitting up in the air with her goodies put out on display.

She nearly jumped out of her skin when she felt the first tickle of his lips against her inner thigh. He nipped and licked his way upward from her knee until he reached her core. She felt the hot breeze against her neither lips and tensed.

"No," he gave her a light tap to the ass as warning. "Don't tense up. Just let go and enjoy my caresses."

He stroked her outer lips with his fingers before spreading them wide and swiping his tongue across her flesh. His lips encircled her small bud. He teased it with his tongue and nipped gently with his teeth, eliciting a moan of pleasure from her. She felt a slight pressure then his finger was inside her pressing in and out.

His lips concentrated on her button, while he added a second finger to the mix stretching her. Her body enjoyed the burn, lubricating her entrance with each thrust he made. Something was building inside her, something stronger than before. She felt it in the tightening of her belly. In the way her insides trembled with each tug he gave of her clit. He pushed a third finger inside her and the fullness overwhelmed her. She exploded around his digits, her inner muscles squeezing them tight.

She expected him to stop pumping as he had with each earlier release, but not this time. Instead, he pressed his thumb tightly against the spot his mouth had once been. His fingers spread inside her as he continued to pump in and out. Then his tongue was there, fighting for a position as well. She exploded again at the idea that his tongue and fingers shared a spot inside her. The orgasm seemed to go on forever. She was surprised to feel a finger slide into her bottom, but soon forgot to object when she rode out yet another orgasm.

She'd lost count of how many — peaks, she'd experienced today. She'd surprised herself when she came while sucking him off. Just small tremors compared to what she'd experienced in the last half hour. He was going to kill her before she ever even lost her virgin status.

A werewolf didn't have a hymen like humans, something she was thankful for at the moment. He was a huge man and she couldn't even imagine how painful that would be for a human female. With each orgasm, her inner walls contracted and relaxed in preparation of the final act of her heat cycle.

Once he pressed his body into her own, her wolf would take over and she'd no longer be an actual participant, but more of a voyeur. She wasn't ready to give up that final control, but time was running out. Sylvia suspected that was Micah's reason for the prolonged orgasm. He too didn't wish to give up that final control and lose himself to the wolf.

When he nipped her ass with sharp canines, she knew the wait was over. Her own mouth ached, and she wondered at the reason. Soon, she forgot the question as he slid inside her with one smooth stroke. She felt stretched, wanted to cry out in pleasure, but felt her conscious being shoved deeper. The frenzy was upon them.

♥~♥~♥~♥

He pounded into her as she shoved against him begging without words for deeper penetration. His nails ripped holes into the pillow's surface in his effort to avoid cutting her. His claws refused to retract, his wolf was too close to the surface, He wasn't afraid for her safety. His wolf would never truly hurt her, but he had no wish to accidently mar her skin either. He lifted her as he positioned himself on his knees. He clasped her hands together then encouraged her to wrap them around his neck. The new position placed her arched back against his chest and gave him better access to her voluptuous breasts. He slammed into her, over and over again while he pulled and squeezed her engorged orbs.

He came inside her as she screamed her own release, but he knew instantly it wouldn't be enough. His wolf wanted more. She was exhausted and needed rest. In an act of dominance, he forced her flat on her stomach then draped himself over the top of her, effectively trapping her beneath him. His cock was still buried in her at half-mast. It would continue to remain half-awake until the she–wolf decided it was satisfied. Only then would his cock rest.

The wolf snapped and fought against the new position, but he thrust deep and held tight using his mouth to hold her in place. She quieted instantly, placated by his act of possession. Sylvia's inner wolf understood that she'd not win in this and he was pleased with her capitulation.

They slept for a short time, her humping his cock with subtle thrusts backward in her unconscious state. He smiled at her reaction to his presence. His mate had never done that, even in the throes of her frenzy. Sylvia turned her head and bite into the flesh of his arm, her canines going deep.

"Mine!" she snarled.

Her garbled words stunned him. Taking advantage of his hesitation and distraction, his wolf jumped forward taking control. He slammed into her hard over and over again as he buried his fangs in the base of her shoulder. She pressed back into him meeting him thrust for thrust the best she could in her position. Both refused to release their hold on the other.

Without conscious thought, they found themselves reciting an ancient chant.

"Love and blood will bind us," Sylvia hissed. Instigating the words.

"My body to shelter and protect," he growled.

"What the Lady has given," she panted.

"Shall none other break..."

"If death shall find us,"

"May we follow our mate into the afterlife to fulfill this bond in death, as we will in life," he vowed.

He pulled back and struck hard, digging his canines deep. He felt her do the same, this time in his chest, just above his heart. He recognized the burn of the mating serum, as it traveled through his body cementing the bond he should have recognized sooner. He'd been foolish, blind to what his wolf had easily seen.

He was unsure why Sylvia had never experienced her heat cycle in the past, but her wolf couldn't resist the call of her mate and had come out of hiding.

She whimpered as her fangs retracted from his flesh. He sensed her fear and confusion as he smoothed a hand down her back.

"Ssh."

"What is happening?"

As he heard the words whispered across his mind, his heart swelled with joy. Finally the bond he'd longed for.

"We are true mates, my duša," he pushed back.

♥~♥~♥~♥

She gasped as his words floated across her mind. True mates? Really? She was shocked by this newest revelation but recovered quickly as a devilish smile took the place of confusion.

"Groovy."

"You did not just say that," he groaned.

She nodded her head enthusiastically, excitement bubbling up inside her. She wasn't defective. She belonged. He was hers.

"I heard one of the teens use it earlier in the quad. I so enjoy the colloquialism used by the youth of America," she offered with a wave of her hand, distracted by her thoughts.

"Next you will be wearing skirts that barely cover your ass and go–go boots."

His horrified tone gave her pause. She glanced up into the blue depths of his eyes. The unease present brought out her inner devilry.

"I just might..." she offered with a nip to his pec.

"Don't make me spank you," he threatened.

Sylvia giggled. She enjoyed his spankings.

"And how was that a threat?" She jumped up from the bed. "I think I'll go rob someone's wardrobe right now."

He caught her around the waist as she passed him. His chuckle was deep and made her heart melt. He'd had so much sadness in his life. The laughter was good for him. She wondered if he'd ever let his guard down completely. As she fell onto the bed, a wave of heat hit her stronger than anything she'd felt so far.

"Our wolves are not done with us it seems."

He didn't wait for her answer just shoved between her legs and she couldn't find any complaint as her pleasure spiraled. She had a lot of years to make up for.

# Chapter 9

"You know of my family and their cruelty. Tell me something of your past?"

Her request threw him, it was not something he expected of her. They were cuddled in his bed the gleam of sweat from their long romp still cooling in the breeze. Her heat had stopped two hours ago. He had no idea what time it was or how long they'd been holed up inside. He found it odd that his brother hadn't sent someone to look for them, but Micah figured Dmitri somehow had already known. That thought made him feel a bit dense, but he had no desire to taint their recent union with such negativity.

"Why?" he asked absently.

"I would know you."

How could he argue with logic such as that? Though they had met a few days before, he couldn't deny their connection. It was the reason for their initial agreement. She needed ease and he felt compelled to volunteer.

If he was truthful, his wolf reacted irrational to the idea of another fulfilling the duty of easing her heat cycle. He'd never aided a female in her first heat, but he had been happy to oblige Sylvia.

His wife had already been long past that stage when they met. They'd practically torn each other's clothes off within hours of meeting. Their need for each other had felt irrational and out of control. Now he wondered if that had all been fake.

His desire for Sylvia was different than any other. She left his cock hard with just her scent, but rather than frenzy and lust he'd felt a slow burn. Like a fire that lay just below the surface. It hadn't taken much to fan the flames, and now, he was thankful for the loss of control.

He nodded his ascent, knowing that he could not deny her request.

"What do you wish to know?"

She touched a spot just above his rib and he knew what her first question would be.

"Shifters don't usually scar, unless the injury is bad."

"That's true."

"What happened?"

"We were sent in to evacuate a group of humans pinned down outside a small village. None of them were more than twenty. Their commander was one of the first killed. They held their shit together though, even managed to save a half dozen children in the process."

"Wow."

"Yeah, it was a highlight of my time in Vietnam. Goddess knows there weren't many good points. One of the young humans stumbled and set off a mace trap."

"What's that?"

"It's a booby trap the VC used to wound soldiers. They would make them with pointed bamboo, usually on a ball or board. They'd hide it in the trees and when the trip wire was set off, it would hit anyone in its path."

"That's terrible."

Micah agreed. The whole war was abhorrent to him. Of course, most wars were.

Though most of the human population were ignorant of shifter society or the others, the world governments knew of their existence. Shifter, vampire and mage societies had all held at least one unit in the armed forces for over a century.

After WWI, the council implemented a mandate that each branch of the military would hold one elite group of shifters that vowed to uphold the safety of the United States. It was made clear that our missions must never be compromised by politics. They were protectors, it was their duty to ensure the safety of those they were charged to shield. They were the first official black–ops. The ghosts of the military, no one wanted to acknowledge. Most shifters preferred it that way.

Micah thought of all the wars he'd served in through the years. Few compared to the violence of Vietnam. He hoped it would be a long time before he had to experience another.

"I managed to shove him out of the way in time, but unfortunately I got impaled for my troubles. They poisoned the poles and my body had a hard time healing from the wounds."

She placed her lips against the scar as if to kiss it all better. "I know this may sound morbid, but I love studying history. There is so much to learn from our past. In my pack, there was a lot the elders refused to share with me."

"We have an extensive library, as my mate, you have unfettered access."

"Mate, it seems so weird to hear me described that way."

"Get used to it," he said running his fingertips along her exposed thigh.

"D–did you know what we were to each other when you offered to umm..."

He wondered if she knew how seductive she looked all pink tinged clear down to the tips of her breasts. Unable to resist, he swept the back of his free hand down her chest encircling her distended nipple.

"The attraction was undeniable, but I didn't realize we were mates until after the fact."

She arched her back pressing her breasts more firmly into his hands. The fingers on her thigh moved upward toward her apex. Thoughts of the past or his knowledge of their link to one another forgotten as arousal overtook them.

"Again please," she moaned sinking her teeth into his pec.

"Oh, most definitely," he promised as he rolled her beneath him.

♥~♥~♥~♥

Sylvia woke feeling achy all over. The things they had done...

She blushed at the reminder of the last few hours. Her frenzy had piqued sometime in the early morning hours, but not before she'd experienced things she never knew were possible. She flinched as she tried to rise from the bed suppressing a groan of pain.

"Easy," Micah soothed holding her to him. "I was pretty rough toward the end and you're going to be sore."

"I enjoyed it," she admitted burying her face in his chest.

He chuckled. "I would hope so, but that doesn't change the fact that you hurt. Lie still and let me take care of things."

"What do you have planned?" she asked with a sensual purr.

Despite her embarrassment, she couldn't seem to help her seductive nature when it came to this male wolf. He was hers and every fiber of her being wished to please him.

"Mmmm, I've created a little sex monster," he said with another chuckle as he nipped her ear. "Stay here.

He swatted at her bottom playfully as he jumped out of bed. She winced but didn't bother to protest. She watched him strut naked across the floor and into the bathroom, wishing desperately she had the strength to take a bite out of his delectable ass. Honestly, she'd never seen anything as beautiful or seductive. He put the statues of the Greek gods to shame.

She listened to him hum off key as he ran water into the bath. Cabinets opened and closed, but still he didn't return. She closed her eyes and let his voice lull her back to sleep.

"Wake up my beauty," Micah coaxed with kisses along her neck and down her shoulder.

Sylvia resisted the desire to roll into his caresses. Her sore muscles protested even the smallest movement.

"Sore," she whimpered.

"I know baby." Micah lifted her in one gentle motion and carried her to the bathroom. Steam filled the room along with the soothing fragrance of herbs and spice. He slid her into the waters depths stepping in behind her with slow movements. "Just relax against me and let the herbal blend do its job."

Sylvia closed her eyes and did as he asked, letting the steam ease her tension while the herbs alleviated most of her pangs. After a while, the quiet of the room began to bother her. She still had questions and this seemed the perfect time to ask.

"I feel much better."

"Good," he said kissing the top of her head.

The jets continuously cycled a flow of warm water into the tub keeping the temperature perfect. Sylvia decided she loved the bath almost as much as she loved the man holding her, but not quite. Yeah, she loved him and wasn't afraid to admit it. That didn't mean she would stop asking the uncomfortable questions.

"I still have questions."

"Ask me anything," he offered linking their fingers.

She worried her bottom lip as she wondered how to phrase her next question. Did he really not care that she asked or was his politeness shining through. She took a deep breath and released it. There was no use putting things off. It was now or never.

# Chapter 10

Micah felt her body shudder as she took a deep breath. He knew the bath had soothed her aches and pains, so this had to be nervousness.

"Tell me about the twins and their mother?"

Her request didn't really phase him. She had a lot of questions bouncing around in that brain of hers. He knew she'd ask about them eventually. Micah was actually surprised she waited so long. He couldn't really blame her curiosity. The secretiveness of the situation probably made it even more interesting to one so young.

It was odd, but her age bothered him. Maybe he'd spent too much time around humans these past few years. In a way, he felt like an old pervert. Shifter society never considered age beyond their maturity. Once a shifter, male or female, reached adulthood, usually between the ages of eighteen and twenty–one, age was no longer an issue. Experience and skills became the focus of an individual shifters worth and purpose in life.

Micah stood lifting her from the water. He had no intention of talking about Eva while they sat in the tub.

He wrapped a thick fluffy towel around her, then grabbed another smaller one for her hair. He wanted her warm and comfortable for this conversation.

"Let's get dressed, then we can talk," he offered.

"Okay," she agreed.

Micah watched her shuffle toward the closet, to steal one of his shirts he assumed. He smiled when she came out wearing one of his flannels that fell past her knees. He liked her in his clothes.

He pulled on a pair of jeans, then sat in the chair near the window. She came to him instantly and he pulled her to him. He cradled her on his lap and kissed her upturned face as she curled against his chest. In his arms, that was where she belonged and would remain for years to come.

The idea pleased him more than anything else ever had. The idea that she had come to mean so much to him both scared and exhilarated him. She was his future, he never thought he'd have something like this.

She watched him with trusting eyes, waiting for him for him to speak. He considered her earlier question and where to start in his tale. Maybe somewhere close to the beginning he thought.

"Her name was Eva. We were both very young when we mated."

"What was she like?" Sylvia asked.

She seemed generally interested and he couldn't find fault with that. A part of him felt that maybe telling his story to her might help him let go. He didn't wish to start his future haunted by his past.

"She was raised by her father. I never asked what happened to her mother. Her pack was small, inconsequential in the dynamics of our society. She was beautiful and energetic. I felt like I'd been swept into a whirlwind when I first met her."

He paused noticing the sadness in Sylvia's eyes. He didn't like her vulnerability. A part of him wished to tell her that Eva could never compare to the beauty sitting before him, but he was never good with sweet words. Instead, he told her about his parents.

"My parents didn't approve of the match."

"How did you end up with her then?"

"After their death, I was hurting and alone. Dmitri had his own struggles and no time for me, so I went back to Madrid."

"Is that where she was from?"

"Yes, sorry," he apologized. She just smiled at him and he knew she didn't mind. "We mated in secret, without our pack's consent."

"I'm sure that didn't go over well," she stated with a giggle and a roll of her eyes.

He couldn't resist giving her a smile of his own. That she could laugh despite who they spoke of said much for her character. It was hard to believe, but she didn't appear jealous in the slightest, just curious.

"Honestly, they didn't know. I think Dmitri always suspected, but he never said as much. We held a second ceremony weeks later."

"Your parents died over a century ago—"

"Yes," he interrupted.

"I know it's difficult to conceive with bonded mates, but..."

He knew where she was going with the question, but he encouraged her anyway. "What?"

"Well, that's a long time. You only had the twins?"

"She had several miscarriages before, and after the twins. There were also a few that died soon after birth."

"I'm sorry," she said stroking his arm.

Her touch was warm and it sent pulses of energy throughout his body. She was like a live wire, the shock rejuvenated him. He placed his hand over her belly thinking of the miracle they made not so long ago. He'd have to tell her soon, but for now he'd enjoy his secret.

"What happened to her?"

"Early on, she began showing signs of instability. At first we thought it was just the stress of so many years of not conceiving. Though the birth of the twins was a blessing, Eva's happiness still seemed to be sporadic, at best. She controlled her moods around the babies, but when we were alone..."

"Did you ever consider it might be depression? I recently read a case study by Dr. Ian Brockington..." she trailed off a blush on her cheeks.

He smiled at her. He liked her intelligence. How many females read anything published by a doctor, even in this day and age? The war in Vietnam had been over for two years as far as the American citizens were concerned, but the age of partying hadn't slowed down much.

"At first, no. Eventually, it was suggested. She had bouts of violence and paranoia. I fended off countless attacks because of her absurd belief that I was having an affair. It didn't matter to her that our nature didn't allow for mates to cheat, or that she would be able to smell another woman's scent. Her irrational mind saw what it wanted, no matter how illogical."

"That's horrible. It must have been hard for both you and the twins."

He nodded his agreement. "With each miscarriage, her delusions would resurface. The doctors believed it was hormonal, an unexplained depression brought on by her loss. They swore with time that it would pass. I should have known better, the boys no longer ventured near her. The woman who had once lovingly cared for the twins was no longer present in their lives."

"What do you mean?"

"Through the years no matter how irrational Eva behaved toward me, the boys never suffered by her hand. As they grew, she began to show a hatred and jealousy toward them that was alarming. She never hurt them physically though, that was something she saved for me."

"That's terrible. Why didn't Dmitri intervene?"

"Honestly, I hid it from him out of some misguided attempt to protect her—"

"And maybe a bit of embarrassment?" she offered.

He paused at her words. She was right, and he was ashamed of that truth. Would there ever be a time that guilt or shame from that period in his life didn't overwhelm him?

"Sadly, you might be right."

"Why do I get the impression the end of this story isn't going to be good?"

"Because it isn't?"

She sighed and he nearly regretted giving in to her curiosity. "My curiosity is worse than a cats. You might as well finish it."

He nodded and continued the story. "Her last pregnancy, before the twins twelfth birthday, gave all three of us a reprieve from her volatile nature. Even after she lost the pups during a late stage miscarriage, she showed no sign of violence, only deep sorrow. We were both grieving so I declined to take the twins on their first shift and hunt. I knew how important it was, but the loss of yet another set of babies along with the downward spiral of my wife was too much. Despite all the years of crazed abuse, I always remained steadfast in my loyalty, but her bitterness lingered."

Their lack of true mate status was the crux of all her insecurities and he knew it. She refused to let go of the knowledge that one day he could meet his true mate. What she failed to understand was that it wouldn't have mattered. If Eva were still alive when he met Sylvia, he would have never acted on the attraction.

"Didn't she realize you faced the same issue?" she demanded.

Her outrage on his behalf warmed a place in his chest he thought had frozen years ago. What was the minx doing to him? He continued the story, unsure how to respond, or if she even wanted him too.

"Dmitri and Grigor took the twins out that night with a promise of protection. Surrounded by two of the most powerful alpha males in werewolf society and six of the most elite sentinels available, I felt assured of their safety. Unconcerned, I wallowed in my own self-pity. I didn't care that my absence might wound my sons. They were shifter males, after all, they needed to learn to act like it. They were no longer children according to our society and rules. I didn't believe it was my duty to hold their hand any longer and said as much. Dmitri was angry with me, Grigor disgusted with my attitude."

"You're lucky no one smacked you. I believe I would have."

"Is that so?" he asked with a smirk. Micah enjoyed the banter thrown in with all the melancholy.

"I'm glad they got their special ceremony. It's a rite of passage that no male should miss out on."

He told her the rest with as little feeling as possible, not wishing to dwell on the emotional side of that day. He described the details of the night. Dmitri's uncharacteristic bragging. Grigor's comment on how proud the twins had made them all. "True hunters," they had shouted to all within range.

He described his sense of pride, and how it overshadowed the sadness in his heart. How he had felt his mate's presence before the others, but gave no warning cry even when he recognized her anger. Then stood in stunned disbelief as she partially shifted, pouncing on the unsuspecting group. Watched her slam a clawed hand into Cyril's chest, shocked to his very bone and confused.

That she would attack their son with the intent to kill...

"Up until that moment, she'd shown Cyr to be her favorite. Showering him with all of her affection, while she ignored Hunter. As she stared down at our eldest son, hate radiated from her, spilling into the courtyard like an insidious being. Evil enveloped Eva's mind and rotted her very soul. I second guessed myself. How had I not seen it?"

"Seen what?"

"The insanity. All those long years with her and I had no inkling of the madness that encompassed her mind."

"Finish it." she stated firmly.

He sensed an irritation in her that wasn't present before. Did she judge him for the things that happened? Somehow he didn't picture Sylvia as the judgmental type.

"Fine. I knew what was coming, that it was the right thing to do for all, but I couldn't watch it happen. Instead, I gazed at my son's face. The horror and confusion, the pleading in the depth of his eyes. Cyr wanted me to somehow make things better, but I couldn't. Instead, I turned away. Guilt ate at my insides. I should have sensed the wrongness in her. I kept asking myself the same question over and over again. Why couldn't I save my sons from the horror they just witnessed?"

"It wasn't your fault."

"Maybe, but I still blamed myself."

"You're an honorable man who was placed in a situation that you couldn't win."

"You have a lot of faith in me considering I'm basically a stranger."

"I don't consider you a stranger."

"Oh?" he asked curious to know her true feelings.

"You're more like an undiscovered friend. But most of all you're my soulmate," she stated, snuggling into his chest. "What happened next?"

His wolf didn't like being put in the friend category, but was appeased by the mentioned of their mate status. They both disliked the idea of the rehashing of this morbid tale even less. Micah had promised to tell her and she obviously wanted to him to finish it, so he would.

"I remember the sound of bone crunching, the echoed howls of despair that erupted from the twins. My heart broke for their suffering. I ran for miles before I collapsed against a tree. I beat my fists against the bark. My hands were a bloody mass of flesh, but I continued to pound the massive tree trunk hoping the physical pain would somehow block out the mental anguish consuming me. Dmitri sent me mental images of my son's chest torn open and bloody, ordering me home, but I ignored the summons. I was ashamed of my own shortcomings. Unable to face the others with the knowledge that I had been blind to what she'd become. I was a coward."

"I disagree," Sylvia stated vehemently.

Micah wanted to smile at her willingness to champion him, even against his own self-loathing and castigation. Instead, he ignored her words. He wanted to finish this story and move on to better things.

The sweet smell of spices enveloped the room and drove him to distraction. He wanted to bury himself in her and get lost. To forget about the past and push future obligations aside for a little while longer.

"I knew through the pack link that Cyr was frightened and in severe pain, both physically and mentally, but he would live. So I stayed away. When Dmitri's patience came to an end, he sent Grigor and Markus to collect me. I was forced to return home and listen while the doctor imparted Cyr's diagnosis. The damage was extensive, even for a shifter's healing properties. My son would wear the scars of his attack for the rest of his life. The horror of that statement crashed down upon me. My first thoughts were purely of myself. I'd be forever forced to look upon my son and be reminded of this day, of my own inadequacies. I couldn't do it. I made the choice that night to avoid my son at all cost. The disgrace laid heavily on my heart. I had let them all down, my wife, my sons and even my alpha."

"That was depressing."

He couldn't resist a chuckle at her overzealous statement of the obvious. "You asked."

"I did. Don't get me wrong, I'm not sorry that you told me. Just sad that so much time was wasted."

"Wasted?" he asked feeling confused.

"Yes," she nodded. "This wasn't your fault and you wasted years consumed by guilt. Dmitri doesn't blame you for what happened, neither do the twins. Honestly, you are the only one holding yourself back from being forgiven."

"I..." Micah was unsure how to formulate the words he wished to speak.

"Let it go for now. We've focused enough of our time on melancholy for today. It's time to get freaky."

He choked on his laughter. "You did not just say that."

"I did," she stated nodding emphatically. "I heard some college guys refer to sex that way last week."

"You're not allowed to repeat random college guys. It just sounds so wrong coming out of your mouth."

She gave a full body laugh wrapping her arms around his middle. Like the snap of fingers in a magic show, he forgot all the horrors and sadness he'd just relived. At that moment, there was only Sylvia and the arousal that washed over him in waves.

He wanted her again and would take her several more times before he left to inform his alpha and pack of their new status.

He carried her to the bed, ripping the buttons off his flannel shirt in the process.

"I'll fix that later," she laughed.

"Forget about it, I'll buy a new one," he promised kissing his way down her chest.

His pants fell to his ankles and he kicked them clear as he climbed onto the bed. Her heat cycle was gone, there would be no need for frenzied. He had plans to take her slow. To enjoy each aspect of their lovemaking at great length.

He suckled her nipple as he cupped her other breast in his palm. She was so responsive, and he reveled in it. He didn't linger long on the hardened beads for other areas of her body called to him. He wished to taste her once more.

With that thought in mind, he trailed his lips down her ribs and over her belly. At her navel, he dipped his tongue into the indent teasing a soft giggle out of his mate. He'd discovered several ticklish spots in his explorations this evening, her belly button was one he quite enjoyed.

"Mercy," she begged.

He swirled his tongue once then forced himself to move on. He kissed his way to her hip, then followed a path down between her thighs with his tongue. He sucked her clit into his mouth as she moaned and thrashed above him. He rolled onto his back bringing her with him and she squealed reaching for the headboard.

"Ride me love," he begged as she stared down at him in a confused daze.

He smirked, relishing in the idea that he did that to her. Using his palms, he guided her hips so she straddled his face more comfortably. Within minutes, she rode him like a pro, leaving his hands free to explore. He thought of her tits, he watched them bounce as she humped his face. His hands moved upward cupping the orbs as he flicked the nipple with his thumb.

He liked her breasts, but there was someplace else he wanted to explore more. His hands drifted down her ribs, over her belly and around her hips. He slide his palms down the globes of her ass and squeezed. As he pulled her cheeks apart, his fingers became covered in her juices.

Slick and wet pussy, that was his desire. He pushed two fingers inside her depths, without hesitation her inner muscles clamped around the digits. He pushed in and out as he nibbled on her clit. She liked him to bite her there, the scrape of his fang excited her.

Her moans of pleasure filled the air as she moved faster. He felt her thighs begin to tremble and slid a third finger inside as her inner muscles clamped down hard. She screamed her release and pride filled him.

He lifted her by the waist as she leaned against the headboard for support. She grabbed his biceps in an attempt to balance herself as he eased her to the mattress. She cradled him between her thighs and he slid inside her with one smooth motion. Deep inside her depths, touching her womb as her muscles clamped around him, he felt as if he were home.

He grabbed her thighs, encouraging her to wrap them around his hips. His thrusts were slow and deep as he wished to prolong both their pleasure. He stared down into her beautiful eyes and they sparkled like the gem they resembled.

He leaned in and kissed her petal soft lips, nibbling on the bottom one with his teeth. He adored how responsive she was, the little sounds of pleasure she made. It ignited something deep inside him. Encouraged him to move faster, plunge deeper. He pressed a thumb to her clit and watched as her body bowed in ecstasy. His thrusts became frenzied as her muscles contracted around him, hurling them both over the edge together. She bit into his pec, directly over his heart as he roared his release, pumping his very essence into her.

# Chapter 11

Sylvia sat on the side porch out of sight of any pack members who might stray too close to the house. She knew her guards lingered somewhere close by. Micah had assured her that the extra security was necessary. She wasn't sure what he was afraid of, but she didn't object.

Micah had left earlier after their joint shower. He felt the need to explain their situation to his brother on his own. She didn't feel slighted by his exclusion from that meeting. Their mating had been a frenzied mess that neither expected. She was sore still in places, but the hot herbal bath had soothed most of her aches.

She rubbed a hand over her abdomen. A lot had happened in just a few days' time. Her life would never be the same and she couldn't bring herself to feel one bit leery of the prospect. Officially, even without the alphas acknowledgment, she was now part of the Volkoff pack. Mated to the alpha's brother and carrying a member of the next generation in her belly.

Micah had imparted that joyful news after their episode in the shower. She'd mentioned how odd it was that the frenzy had slowed. He chuckled swinging her into his arms as he explained why. They'd made love again, slower, to celebrate.

She was overjoyed. When she was young, she'd longed to find her true mate and be blessed with a houseful of children. She had given that dream up permanently five years ago. The elder's proclaimed her defective with no chance of making a match at that point. Rumors, more than likely started by Charlotte, had run rampant since she turned seventeen with no heat cycle. They prolonged any declaration until her twentieth birthday. Supposedly, to encourage a possible match, but no one wanted her.

Now she was glad for their lack of interest. Micah was her life's miracle and she would cherish what the Goddess granted them, always. He'd only been gone a short time and she already missed him.

She stood and paced toward the railing, gazing at the horizon. She'd originally thought the swing out front had the best view of the area. Now, she realized that the furniture on each side of the porch was perfectly angled to get the best view possible from that vantage point. The only side of the cabin that didn't offer a view was the back, which was accessed from the kitchen.

It was also the only portion of the porch enclosed. Micah had made it into a makeshift mudroom, to help alleviate some of the mud being trekked into the house. With two teen boys, she somehow doubted it helped much.

Distracted by the thoughts chasing around in her mind, she didn't pick up on the intruders until a hand wrapped around her arm and a palm slid over her mouth. She kicked and screamed, but only muffled noises escaped. A man grabbed her ankles while the other held her upper torso. She couldn't make out their faces, but sensed they weren't shifter. She renewed her struggles and was rewarded with a fist to the left cheek.

♥~♥~♥~♥

Micah was only half listening as Grigor and Dmitri droned on and on about pack politics. They were concerned with any backlash caused by his sudden and unexpected mating. He expected an argument or a lecture at the very least. Instead, he received pats on the back and congratulations from both of them and Markus.

Mathew seemed to be disgruntled by the revelation, but Micah didn't much care for his opinion. The older wolf had been one of his father's men. Dmitri had given him a place in his own guard when they traveled to America, years ago. Micah never liked the wolf much, nor did he engender any trust.

Markus and Mathew burst through the door, agitation evident in every line. Dmitri quirked a brow at the two men, but otherwise showed no outer sign of interest or anxiety.

"We have a situation. Well, more than one actually."

Micah rubbed his temple to ease the pain of what felt like the beginning of a splitting headache coming on. He felt like someone beamed him in the head with a two by four.

"Start at the beginning," Dmitri suggested.

"Charlotte and her entourage didn't show up for today's training," Markus stated.

Micah lowered his palm, unease churned inside his belly. Charlotte was missing? He didn't like the sound of that.

"The twins disappeared as well," Mathew informed them.

Great, hopefully, they weren't in the same place. No matter how badass the Texas wolves thought of themselves, they were no match for his sons.

"What else?" Micah demanded his hard-won patience at an end.

"After visiting Charlotte's cabin, I decided to check on Sylvia. I found the guards unconscious and Sylvia gone. It looks like a blitz attack."

Micah clenched his jaw as he fought to control his beast. Losing his temper right now would be the worst move possible. He needed to keep his head if they were to track her location. He'd have to worry about his sons' disappearance later.

"I agree," Dmitri stated. "The twins can take care of themselves." In alpha mode, he turned toward the door. A group of sentinels and guards gathered outside. "We need to concentrate our efforts on finding Micah's mate."

The reaction to that revelation was a mixture of surprise and genuine delight. Though a part of him rejoiced at the praise, he knew they must not get sidetracked.

"Can you communicate with her?" Grigor asked.

He shook his head in the negative. "We shared a few words in the beginning, but our bond isn't strong enough yet to hold conversations," Micah answered feeling swamped by melancholy, pain, and fear.

He massaged his temple in an attempt to alleviate the persistent pain. He winced as the dull ache intensified.

Dmitri placed a hand on his shoulder. "What is it?"

"Nothing really. Just a persistent headache."

Grigor cocked his head, eyes zeroed in on Micah. "How long?"

"An hour or so—"

"That is your connection," Grigor insisted. "She was probably knocked unconscious. You are feeling her pain."

Micah's eyes widened as realization dawned. A little over an hour before he'd felt a blinding pain as if someone hit him in the temple. It had lasted only a second or two then become the dull ache he now suffered.

"Concentrate," Dmitri encouraged. "I know this is new to you, but you're our only link at the moment."

He nodded his agreement.

♥~♥~♥~♥

She woke with a groan of pain. She remembered the fist to her face clearly, which explained the headache. However, the agony in her arms and legs were a new sensation. From the light filtering in through the window, she determined that it was dusk.

She'd been unconscious for at least five hours then. She didn't wish to think about all the things they could have, and probably did do to her during that stretch of time. At least she was fully clothed. That and the lack of any aches in some of her more private areas, led her to believe they'd not sexually assaulted her.

The question was, what did they want with her? A noise to the left caught her attention.

"Well, looky at who has decided to grace us with her presence. Get up bitch." The man grabbed a handful of her hair forcing her to her knees or have it ripped from her scalp.

"W-ho are y-you?" Sylvia asked her teeth chattering.

It was like an icebox inside the room. Even with her naturally high body temperature the cold seeped into her bones causing her to shiver.

"What's the matter little wolf, afraid?" The unfamiliar man sneered.

The air froze in her lungs at his words. Few humans knew of their existence. The fact that she was taken on pack land told her they had a traitor in their midst. Who would be that daring or that stupid? Charlotte was the only person that came to mind, but Sylvia refused to believe she'd endanger everyone for her own pettiness.

He slammed a bar into the back of her leg, just below the knee. She screamed in agony as bone snapped and she fell to the floor.

"So you do feel pain?"

His calm in the face of such brutality left her uneasy. What kind of madman had her in custody?

"Not talking?" He yanked hard dragging her across the floor. "That's okay, your stepsister warned me about your conniving tongue. I prefer your silence."

Stepsister? Sylvia's shoulders slumped at the implication. Charlotte had sold her out. Knowing her sibling, she probably made up some horribly dramatic tale. Her sister and the pack of animals that hung on her every word, probably howled with laughter at the irony of the situation. Of all those at the compound, she was the least shifter like.

"What's taking so long?" A tall human snarled as he came to the door.

"She had a bit of a fall," the first man offered with a laugh.

"Stop fucking around. We've had enough delays."

The taller man clamped his ham-like hand around her upper arm propelling her forward and out into the night. Sylvia worked hard to ignore the pain shooting through her calf with each step.

"W–where are you taking me?" she asked, voice tremulous despite her best effort to hide the fear.

"Hunter headquarters, of course," the madman stated.

"Enough," the tall man snapped.

He jerked hard on Sylvia's arm in an attempt to speed up her pace, but she lost her footing. Her arm twisted painfully in the man's grip as her face engaged in a close up of the nearest rock formation. She knew without an x–ray that she wasn't going anywhere with a broken ankle.

A howl sounded from the south, answered by another to the west. Excitement bubbled up inside Sylvia. Had they found her?

"Get. Up."

The man punctuated each word with a kick to her torso. Sylvia wondered if he truly believed damaging her ribs would make her move faster.

Two wolves leapt from the darkness, knocking their targets to the ground. Screams quickly turned to whimpers and cries for mercy. Clouds rolled in covering the moon's rays. Sylvia couldn't make out much more than a few shadows in the darkness, but she didn't really wish to see what was done to them. The sounds were enough to get the idea. Her would-be rescuers were ripping them apart one piece at a time.

She wasn't sure she wanted to be a part of this method, but she had no choice as she sat helpless in the leaves.

# Chapter 12

A sentinel rushed in as they were preparing to depart. Micah wasn't sure he could take much more news.

"Charlotte and her men were found."

"Where?" Dmitri demanded.

"Near the river."

"Good job," Grigor offered. He pivoted shouting orders as he headed toward the door.

"Wait..."

"What?" Micah snapped.

"Several of her entourage are wounded. Charlotte claims two feral teen wolves attacked them without cause."

"Whelp, at least we know where the twins are," Markus offered.

"Were," the sentinel interrupted. "Reports are that they're trail went cold less than ten minutes ago."

"Damn, they're like ghosts," Markus stated with a touch of awe.

Despite the situation, Micah took a moment to bask in the pride he felt for his sons' abilities. He had always hoped that they would be an unstoppable force that fought for the good of shifter society. It seemed that he would get his wish.

The alpha touched Micah's shoulder giving it a gentle squeeze.

"Someday, we will find a way to harness their gifts. For now, let's just find them and your mate," Dmitri declared.

They met up with the group holding Charlotte near the border of pack land. The female wrung her hands as if distressed, but immediately Micah's wolf sensed something off about the scene. Fat tears rolled down her cheeks and she sobbed intermittently, grasping one of her guard's hand for comfort.

Micah's gaze narrowed in on the male's hand and the blood that seeped from it. He had no detectable wounds, defensive or otherwise. So, where did the blood come from?

For long minutes, Micah's gaze darted between their clasped hands and her eyes in an attempt to pinpoint his unease. Then he saw it. The tell-tale flicker of her eyes as she gauged the others reactions. Each time they seemed to show doubt or anger, she'd sob distracting them from their purpose with her wails.

Her guard flinched, allowing a millisecond glimpse of his palms as they contracted. Her claws were elongated and dug deep into the males flesh. Micah was surprised they hadn't punctured the other side.

"She's lying." Micah snarled in her face as his anger mounted. "Where is my mate, bitch?"

Charlotte straightened, all pretense of fear and anxiety gone. "We gave her to some humans for sport."

Micah pulled his clawed hand back prepared to strike her down.

"Enough!" Dmitri proclaimed stopping Micah's forward swing inches before it connected with her body. "Matt hold her and keep her mouth shut." Dmitri motioned to another group of the pack. "Please take the wounded back to the medical facility."

"As you wish, Alpha," the man agreed with a bow of his head.

"Wait..." the man Charlotte had impaled begged. "You should know, they're Hunters."

Charlotte's gasp echoed through the clearing. "You let me give my sister to Hunters? How could you?"

Though her outrage seemed genuine, none present bought the act. She was looking for a scapegoat and the poor sap sitting at his feet had just been volunteered for the duty.

"You have your orders," Dmitri commanded. "Bring the girl, I don't trust her out of my sight."

Without a backward glance, Micah and the others followed their alpha through the forest.

# Chapter 13

It took less than ten minutes to find the human's trail. For Hunters, they weren't very circumspect. They now stood along the tree line observing the carnage his sons created. Micah's only concern was the horrified look on his mates face. Stress wasn't a good thing for a newly impregnated female and he worried for her state of mind.

He swallowed as the wolves tore at the male's torso and throat, ripping chunks from his body. The human's death had not come easy, the evidence of his torture was visible to all. Micah could not bring himself to feel disapproval over the means of the culprit's demise. He knew his sons had saved Sylvia from a tortuous fate. Their link though fragile had told him her captivity hadn't been pleasant.

Sylvia whimpered, catching the attention of the young wolves now covered in blood. Their lips pulled back baring their teeth as a low growl left their throat. Micah could sense her fear but was helpless to stop her movements as she crawled crablike backward, toward the tree. She pressed her back into the trunk as another whimper was released. Her muscles tensed as if she were making ready to run.

"Do not!" Micah commanded through their link. Hoping that, she heard his words.

He watched as her startled gaze searched the woods. The moment their eyes met a sense of relief filled her. She relaxed against the tree, trusting in his ability to save her.

"Do something," Charlotte hissed into the quiet. "They are feral. Just look what they did to my guards earlier."

The whiny voice filled with so much accusation enraged Micah. Did she intend to convince others into harming his sons?

"Guards you ordered to torture your own sister."

"They were only meant to scare her. It's really your fault for insulting me so. I'm the oldest. It should've been me you mated, not that half-pint klutz that actually believes she is my equal."

"She is not your equal."

Micah's statement startled those present. All paused in their actions waiting for him to say more. Micah wondered if they truly believed he would ever disrespect his mate in such a way. Sylvia never lost eye contact with him. Her trust was absolute. Another crack formed in the barrier around his heart, shattering any final doubts he had about his feelings for her.

"I knew you would come to your senses—"

"She surpasses you in everything," he interrupted efficiently cutting off whatever words might spew from her lips. "Until you mate, whoever that poor sap may be, she is above you in station and you will treat her as such."

If Micah had not been whispering for fear of startling his sons into action, his words would've echoed through the forest. He was that enraged. Her ridiculous jealousy had caused this mess, and now he was once more faced with a scene that brought no winners.

"Though I hate to agree with the bitch, they do appear feral," Matt stated with a nonchalance that grated on Micah's nerves.

He knew what Matt insinuated. A feral wolf was considered rogue and must be put down. If he stepped one foot in the twin's direction, Micah swore he'd rip his heart out with his bare hands.

"You will not execute my sons," Micah snarled.

Micah was unwilling to allow another of his blood to be lost in such a way. His mates death, though inevitable had nearly destroyed him. He wouldn't survive the loss of his sons in such a way. Truthfully, neither would the pack.

In turn, any harm that he suffered, Sylvia endured as well. He'd kill Matt outright before he allowed any such thing to transpire.

"It's the law—"

"Enough!"

Though shouted through the pack connection, Dmitri's roar held a powerful punch. Showing all the true strength of his alpha state. Even Micah's sons hesitated in their forward movement, but it was not enough to halt them completely.

"No one will be executing a member of my pack today, or any day in the future," Dmitri declared.

"But, our laws state—"

"My pack, my laws and no others," Dmitri stated cutting Matt off once more. "Do not question me again or I will be forced to ignore all the years of proven loyalty and question your motives."

Dmitri turned to Micah without waiting for an answer. Micah saw the look of anger pass over Matt's face and felt a sense of unease that his brother would so blatantly show another his back. His wolf warned that Matt would need to be watched. Betrayal was in Matt's future, though Micah didn't know when or how.

"Brother."

Micah's words were meant to be a warning, but somehow only a plea came forth. Though he had neglected his sons, he didn't wish for their harm. They were his flesh and blood and he loved them, but Sylvia was his true mate, chosen by the goddess. He couldn't choose between the two and did not wish to be forced into such a choice. Micah hoped his sibling would understand his unspoken words, for to speak them aloud would be an impossibility.

"Call to them."

Micah hesitated, but Dmitri's hand on his arm gave him strength. "Cyr, Hunter?" he called.

They paused, canting their heads to the side and hope flared only to be dashed as another helpless whimper left Sylvia's lips. Their muzzles swung toward their prey once more.

Micah sensed her desperation through their bond. Her pain made it difficult to stay quiet for long though she tried to keep her sounds to a minimum. Though outwardly she looked healed, her nerve endings had been damaged too many times. The pain lingered long after the wounds sealed up.

"Again."

"Come boys, it's time to head home," Micah coaxed, eliminating any lingering fear from his voice.

Still there was no response and he was forced to watch in horror as they crept closer to his mate. Blood and saliva dripped into her hair as Sylvia cowered under them. Still she did not ooze terror as one should. She held faith that he would save her. He hoped her loyalty wasn't misplaced.

Micah could hear a soft whisper along the family link, but was unable to make out the words. He had no doubt that it was Dmitri's attempt to coax them into submission without force. Time had run out, they could not chance another minute. Micah hung his head, for he knew he could not be the one to give the order. He felt the coward for that inability, but...

"Please, no!" Micah roared in anguish as his sons readied themselves to lunge.

They turned once more at Micah's plea, cocking their heads as they studied his profile. Micah refused to break eye contact as he stared down at his sons. Seconds ticked by before they lowered their front paws in contrition, a soft whine escaping their throats.

"Come. It is done," Dmitri ordered.

With a whimper, they tucked their tails between their hind legs and crawled toward their alpha. Micah was overwhelmed with a sense of relief as they sat next to his brother. They had avoided a disaster. The death of his sons would've crippled the pack. For only Grigor or Dmitri, himself could've ended their lives, and neither would've recovered from such a tragedy.

Sylvia's sob caught his attention and he turned from his sons to concentrate on her comfort. This day had been hard on her and he needed to see to her care. As he moved closer, an awareness of another hit his psyche. No, not another, but two. Twins, his mate was pregnant with twins...

The horror of the last few minutes and all he could have lost hit him with the force of a mac truck. Micah fell to his knees pulling Sylvia into the cradle of his arms. Dear goddess above, he could've lost yet another offspring. Desperation and fear collided as Micah realized what he must do. Never again would he allow those he loved to be in danger.

"She is pregnant with twins."

"Yes," Dmitri acknowledged.

"You knew, but allowed my sons to endanger her?" Micah accused through the telepathic link.

"They sensed the babes as well. It was why they hesitated. That and your scent on her. They fought their wolf's instincts. I had no doubt how this would end."

"All of it was unacceptable," Micah stated in anger.

He kissed Sylvia's brow as her grip tightened. No doubt a reaction to the tension he radiated. This was by no means an easy decision for him.

"Take them back to the bunk house."

"You do not have to do this," Dmitri pleaded through their link.

"There will always be those like Matt and Charlotte who wish to destroy them. At least away from the family's they are somewhat protected."

"This is an unnecessary sacrifice."

A whimper escaped the wolves at Micah's feet and he wavered in his decision. The sound drew his gaze to them. The sight of the blood that covered their coats strengthened his resolve.

"It is done," Micah stated aloud cutting off their silent link.

"Come," Dmitri ordered as he turned to go.

Micah knew he was angry, but he would not override his choice. It was difficult to block out the sad whimpers of his sons as the slunk behind their alpha. Dmitri would take them to be cleaned up, then back to the barracks. They would no longer be his concern. The female that lay cuddled in his arms and any offspring they created would be his primary concern in the future.

"I will never allow another to hurt you again. I swear it," Micah vowed.

She eased away from him, forehead creased, her nose wrinkled in concentration. Micah recognized that look. She was about to say something he would not like.

"It's not their fault."

Her words came out more of a plea than a statement. Micah had no doubt she was aware of his turmoil, but his decision was final.

"It's too late."

"They are your sons."

"You must be my priority. You and the babes you carry."

She placed her hand protectively against her womb. Tears streamed down her face as her hands shook.

"I never wanted to further the wedge between you and them. To be the reason—"

"You are not," Micah swore cutting off her words.

"Am I not?"

"They are nearly grown and will be trained for combat," Micah stated avoiding her question.

Her shoulders slumped, but she said not a word. Micah admitted to feeling relief at her capitulation. After the day they had, he only wished to take his mate home. The adrenalin rush had dissipated and exhaustion was quickly depleting his energy. Micah lifted Sylvia into his arms.

"Will they truly be ok?" she asked in a small voice.

Leave it to his sweet mate to hold such concern. Micah gave her a nod, unwilling to say more on the subject and kissed her soft lips. He had no doubt that they would be well cared for, but would they truly be okay? He didn't have a true answer to give her.

His instincts said that they would, but their road to happiness would be a long and bitter one, filled with resentment and even danger. Their future would be a concern for a later day. Though he had basically declared them dead to him, it would not quiet his concern for them.

They were his blood and he would always fear for their safety, but he didn't doubt his words. The mistakes of his past couldn't be corrected. In the shifter world, they were considered nearly grown. It was time to let them go and care for those who were defenseless and needed his protection.

"Let's take you home."

"I love you, Micah."

"And I, you. Though I didn't realize it at the time, from the moment we met, you were the master of this fool's heart."

# Epilogue

They both gazed lovingly at the new editions to their family. No one seemed surprised that they gave birth to a healthy set of twin boys. Sylvia was in awe.

Her parents had not been available for the birth. Charlotte had found a political match with a powerful Alpha from Louisiana. Their ceremony took place over the weekend.

She'd been surprised when they received an invitation, even a bit fearful. Dmitri had assured her that she was safe and need not concern herself with the polite refusal he'd sent on her behalf. She was grateful for his interference.

"You did well," Micah stated kissing her cheek.

"I did, didn't I?" she asked beaming at the bundles in her arms. "They're so precious."

She went to wipe a tear from her eyes and was startled to see a pair of sea green eyes staring back at her over the mattress. Pudgy little fists grasped the bars of her bed as he leaned his head into them.

"Are you an angel?" he lisped.

The sheer wonderment that shone in his gaze melted her heart.

"What the devil?" Micah snarled reaching for the child.

"Micah don't." He stopped immediately at her words and she smiled down at the now wary child. "He won't hurt you, sweetheart. What's your name?"

"Tony," he said sticking his pudgy fingers in his mouth.

He's no threat, Micah. The child can't be more than three. Don't frighten him.

It's difficult, but I'm trying.

I know.

She smiled at both the man and the small child. Knowing that Micah's protective nature was on edge, she brushed her palm or his hand in an attempt to soothe.

"Hey, Micah— ah there you are you slippery little—"

"Markus..." Sylvia scolded.

"What? Awe come on Sylvia, the kid is slipperier than snot. He's like a miniature Houdini. Every time I turn around he's escaped."

"Where's his parents?"

"My momma is in heaven," he offered, his eyes misty with unshed tears.

"I'm sorry, sweet pea," she offered touching his cheek.

"Ssss okay. She twas sad always, but Papa say she happy now wiff angels."

Sylvia smiled at the sweet cherub as tears pricked her eyes. He was just about the cutest little thing. She covered her mouth as a yawn escaped. The birth had taken its toll on her, and she was exhausted.

"Come on munchkin, it's time to let Ms. Sylvia sleep," Markus coaxed.

"One day, when you get older, you come back and visit me, okay?" Sylvia asked.

"Tay. Night Ms. Lyvia," he said with a wave of his hands.

She watched silently as Markus led the boy out. Micah leaned in and kissed her lips, but she was too tired to return the gesture. She almost protested when he removed the twins from her arms, but realized they were better off in the nearby crib.

"Stay with me?" she begged.

An inexplicable fear of being alone assailed her as her eyes drooped.

"Always sweetheart," he promised.

He sat in the chair beside her bed and took her hand gently in his own. She sighed in relief, feeling safe with her mate close by. She allowed sleep to take her.

The End

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Volkoff Pack Book One

Tonight's Desire (Cyril and Hunter's Story)

Cyril woke with a start. Sweat covered his bare chest. He knew he should get up, his night of rest over. Once he woke, he could never just go back to sleep. Instead, he laid in bed, his gaze on the ceiling. He played the dream back in his mind, grasping for an answer to why the images disturbed him.

A noise from the hall caught his attention, he turned his head to the side and met his brother's concerned stare. "Bad dream again?" Hunter asked.

Cyr grunted, a verbal response unnecessary. Although not common, as twins they were capable of telepathic communication. His brother already knew the answer; it wasted time and energy to bother with small talk. He rolled out of bed heading for the master bathroom. He needed a hot shower to ease his tight muscles.

"You know I don't invade your privacy, brother. I only see glimpses, when the dreams are at their worst, a projection nothing more." Again, he didn't bother to answer. He knew his brother spoke the truth.

They always remained considerate of the others privacy, only speaking through their link when they worked or were around those they had no desire to share their thoughts with. Their telepathic abilities were a secret kept between themselves and those they answered to, their Alpha, his second in command Grigor and their mentor Dante. Not even their father knew of their unique gifts.

He suspected their younger half-brothers; also, a set of twins could do the same. The few times he'd been in their company he noticed the odd exchange of looks from time to time, as if they spoke a silent language all their own. Cyril recognized the signs, but he doubted their father had.

He washed the sweat and grime from his body as the hot sprays worked their magic on his tense muscles. The room filled with steam, a reminder of the dream and the thick mist that left the woman enshrouded in mystery. He slammed his fist into the wall, an effort to alleviate some of his frustration.

"Tell me about her," Hunter pleaded from the other side of the shower door.

So he knew. Cyr remained unsurprised, maybe it was time to tell him, she was his mate too. It seemed unfair to keep what he knew a secret any longer.

"I never see her face. She's shrouded in darkness, surrounded by dense fog. I can only make out her hair, which is long and cascades down her back. When she walks it brushes her hips, a seductive caress."

"Is she in danger?" Hunter asked.

Cyr heard the worry in his brother's voice and looked up. Hunter stared out the open window into the night. He gave the illusion of indifference, but Cyr knew better.

Cyr turned off the showerhead and grabbed a towel. "I don't know. I sense an evil presence, and she's afraid, but I don't think the evil wants to hurt her."

"Then what causes the night sweats and the screams I hear in your head?" Hunter asked puzzled.

"I see things..." Cyr answered as he wrapped the towel around his waist and headed toward his closet.

He intended to get dressed, grab a cup of coffee and maybe work in his shop. He'd been working on a piece for above their balcony, a depiction of their wolves and the unknown woman. When he started the work on it, he'd been unsure of his motives, but now Cyr realized he meant to honor her.

Hunter growled from the door. "Stop trying to shield me, brother. Just tell me what it is you see."

"It's not one image—"

"Of course it's not. You've been dreaming of her for months," Hunter interrupted, agitation evident in his voice.

"Do you want to hear this or not?" When Hunter nodded, he continued. "As I said, it's many images. The first was a car crash, an older man and woman. They died instantly, but I saw a young woman standing at the edge of the cliff, weeping."

"What about the others?" Hunter asked.

"There were many, glimpses mostly, but I don't remember them all. Most of the time I wake with her shadowed image lingering in my mind and a sense of pure evil." He shook his head to clear the unease his dreams brought him. "There was a fire that killed many and then a man fell down a flight of stairs, breaking his neck."

"What aren't you saying?"

Cyr smiled, not surprised his brother sensed something more. "When the man fell, his pants were undone and... lowered. The image I saw later with the police showed him fully dressed. Before they crashed, pain and discomfort emanated from the old couple. I can't explain it, but I sensed something more than a simple accident. Even the fire seemed insidious in my dream, a living, breathing evil that consumed those around it."

"Hmm, we both know the evil that resides in this world. We've spent several decades in an attempt to destroy it. Maybe you see it both ways because one is the truth and one a lie perpetrated on others."

"Like someone tampered with the crime scene?" Cyr asked, curious why he hadn't made that connection himself.

Hunter shrugged his shoulders. "Why not? Haven't we done similar things in our assignments?"

"Maybe you're right."

"What about this dream?" Hunter asked.

Cyr poured himself a snifter of whiskey from the bar. He'd forgo the coffee for a moment. Did he want to remember the dream? He saw the shadowed image in his mind, felt her fear.

"She was running through the forest." He took a large swig of the amber liquid. "A pack of wolves chased her, and she was afraid." He shook his head trying to break free of the memories. "I'm not sure, but I think it was us. Well, our pack anyway," Cyr finished.

"That makes no sense. The pack would never chase a woman with the intent to harm." Hunter stated.

"I know, but the truth remains the same. That's what I saw." Cyr touched his brother as he turned away. "There's more."

"What?" Hunter asked impatience in his voice.

"I sensed malice from the pack."

"What the fuck does that mean?" Hunter demanded.

"They intended to kill their target."

"Impossible..." Hunter swore as he turned away.

"I only know what I saw. Do you think I don't understand what this implies? I'd never believe such a thing possible." Cyr shrugged. "Maybe it's all a metaphor, not meant to be taken literal."

"Maybe..." Hunter turned back, his dark green eyes gazed at Cyr. "Thanks for sharing this with me."

"She's your mate too. I shouldn't have kept it from you for so long," Cyr answered honestly. "I'm going to work in my shop for a few hours. See you later?"

At Hunter's nod, he left the house. Like him, his brother needed time to absorb this information. A few hours alone should do the trick.

♥End of Sample♥

# Coming Soon

How about a sneak peek to whet the appetite? Here is a sample of Book Three in the Volkoff Pack series.

Love Combined

"No, no Latania what have you done?"

She pulled the bloody body of her sister onto her lap. Tears streamed down her face as she absorbed the scene before her. Nia, her beloved twin wheezed as blood oozed from her many slashes. The shredded remains of her sister's lover lay to the left of them. The ground around them both, saturated with their mixed blood.

"Help... him..."

Her sister's pleading words broke Mira's heart. Save him? Impossible. Strips of the shifter lay at their feet. If he remained alive, it wouldn't be for long.

Goddess above how had this happened? Unlike the rest of their coven, Mira knew what this would do to her sister. He represented her future. He was her destiny, the other half of her soul promised by the goddess. His loss would devastate her.

Was this a punishment for their boldness? The two of them had ignored the elders, rebelled against coven law. Tired of waiting for life to come to them, they had tried to force the future. Using their combined powers, they had located Nia's mate.

In a surprising twist of fate, he belonged to another species. Not their kind, a shifter. The elders would never understand, so they hid their act of defiance while Nia met with her shifter in secret. Now they would pay the ultimate price for their arrogance.

A thick fog rolled in beside her. She was startled from her self-flogging by a familiar voice.

"Hurry child, bring your sister. We have little time."

"Grandmere?"

"Don't look so surprised. Do you think I would leave you both unprotected so young?" A hand of wrinkled leather rose above the worst of Nia's wounds. A soft glow emanating from her palms. "Quickly child bring her. I'm far too old and fragile to carry her."

Mira nearly snorted at her words. Fragile and her grandmother were not synonymous of each other. Her sister's distress brought her back to the reality of the moment.

A cry of anguish left Nia's cracked lips as she reached a hand for her lover. Mira had no doubt the movement caused her great pain. Watching her beloved sister struggle against their hold shattered her.

"We cannot leave him Grandmere, it will kill her. Please, can't we help him?" she begged on a sob.

"Foolish child, she will die if we stay."

Her grandmother was a force to be reckoned with. Most referred to her as a mean old battle axe. Never in all her years, had her grandmother directed that anger toward her or Nia as she did now.

Miranda hesitated looking at her sister's mate. She could not detect even the faintest of breaths. Could she risk her sister's life on a dead man?

"Can you save her?"

Miranda's voice broke, unable to face the very real possibility that she may lose her sister forever. The look of sorrow on her grandmere's face terrified Miranda.

"I do not know. I will sacrifice as much of my energy as I can spare. If we continue to linger, she will not even have a chance. She will die here in this once lovely meadow. The ground soaking up her life's blood as it has her lover's."

Miranda looked once more at the gruesome remains of Nia's mate. "You do not understand, Grandmere."

"Nyet," she declared slashing her hand through the air. "I see all clearly. If we do not leave, your sister will be lost from us forever. Now lift her. We have no more time. If she is to have any chance of survival, I must teleport us." She grabbed an elder branch as she spoke, breaking the end. "Take my hand Miranda. I cannot do this alone. Give me your strength."

♥End of Sample♥

Author's Note

I hope you enjoyed the prequel of my ongoing paranormal series, Volkoff Pack, as well as the short excerpts from my future tales. Book One and Two are available for purchase now. Book Three is scheduled for release later this year. While I can't give you exact dates at this time, I assure you my plans for this series expands well into the future.

If you're interested in tracking my publications, you are welcome to sign up for my newsletter. I won't spam you, I promise. You will only receive a message when I have a new release or a promotion, nothing else.

Have any questions? Contact me directly through social media or my contact form on my website.

Author's Bios

S.R. Roddy is a mother of five, living in Texas with her husband and teenage children. From a young age, she discovered a deep love for books, especially anything to do with history or mythology.

Not surprisingly, as she grew into adulthood that morphed slightly, leaning more towards paranormal and historical romances. Since her teenage years, she's dreamt of writing her own stories to share with the world.

Thanks to the encouragement of her family, she is at the beginning of what she hopes to be a long journey in sharing those stories.

Other titles by S.R. Roddy

Contemporary:

Danes Family: The Complete Series

Lisa's Halloween Surprise

Lisa's Dreams

Historical Romance:

Love in the Mist

Mists Through Time

To Embrace a Highlander

Paranormal Romance:

Tonight's Desire

 Love's Forbidden Embrace

Connect with Me Online

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