Aaron's Awakening

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A Total-E-Bound Publication

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Aaron’s Awakening ISBN # 978-0-85715-727-0 ©Copyright Lavinia Lewis 2011 Cover Art by Posh Gosh ©Copyright October 2011 Edited by Stacey Birkel Total-E-Bound Publishing This is a work of fiction. All characters, places and events are from the author’s imagination and should not be confused with fact. Any resemblance to persons, living or dead, events or places is purely coincidental. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any material form, whether by printing, photocopying, scanning or otherwise without the written permission of the publisher, Total-E-Bound Publishing. Applications should be addressed in the first instance, in writing, to Total-E-Bound Publishing. Unauthorised or restricted acts in relation to this publication may result in civil proceedings and/or criminal prosecution. The author and illustrator have asserted their respective rights under the Copyright Designs and Patents Acts 1988 (as amended) to be identified as the author of this book and illustrator of the artwork. Published in 2011 by Total-E-Bound Publishing, Think Tank, Ruston Way, Lincoln, LN6 7FL, United Kingdom.

Warning: This book contains sexually explicit content which is only suitable for mature readers. This story has a heat rating of Total-e-burning and a sexometer of 1.

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Shifters’ Haven

AARON’S AWAKENING Lavinia Lewis

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Book four in the Shifter's Haven Series How do you prove to someone who has been hurt in the past that you are worth taking a chance on? Werewolf Aaron Drake is delighted to learn he is finally moving to Texas with his father and father's mate. Aaron is even more excited to meet his mate – Panther shifter Cary - on the very first day in his new home. But Aaron’s happiness is short lived when, upon their first meeting, Cary runs away from him, distraught. When Panther shifter Cary Lewis discovers Aaron Drake is his mate, he is absolutely terrified. Mate. The word fills him with dread. Cary Spent two years being abused by his mate Gill and the last six months trying to get over his death. The last thing he needs or wants is another mate, especially one who appears to be as aggressive and dominant as Gill had been. But the mating bond is hard to resist and so is Aaron Drake. Just when Cary begins to come to terms with their union a representative from the supernatural council shows up, and Cary learns that cross species mating is strictly forbidden. Forced to hide their relationship from the council or face dire consequences their bond is further tested when they discover gay shifters in the area are being targeted and killed by a group of local thugs. Are there too many problems for two such young men to overcome or Is their blossoming relationship worth taking a chance on?

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Dedication Mam, as always this is for you. Dane, thanks for reading this for me, your suggestions were a huge help.

Trademarks Acknowledgement The author acknowledges the trademarked status and trademark owners of the following wordmarks mentioned in this work of fiction: Stetson: John B Stetson Company Viagra: Pfizer, Inc

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AARON’S AWAKENING

Lavinia Lewis

6

Chapter One

Aaron pressed an ear to the door of his father’s bedroom and listened intently. Stefan would tan his hide if he knew Aaron was eavesdropping, but how else was he supposed to learn anything? In a few months’ time he’d be twenty, but his father still treated him like a child. Stefan and his mate, Cody, had been secretive around him lately—their conversations halting whenever he walked into the room. His father was keeping something from him— Aaron was certain of it. Tonight he intended to find out exactly what was going on. Aaron only hoped his father’s evasiveness had nothing to do with the pack. The last time his position as alpha had been challenged, Cody had nearly got killed. Aaron had been made to watch the challenge and there hadn’t been a damn thing he could do to stop it. He was a little older now and stronger. He wouldn’t let his father or Cody go through something like that again. Not if he could help it. The hushed voices in the room fell silent. Aaron pressed closer trying to hear more clearly. He yelped when the door was yanked open, and he fell forwards into the room, landing on his knees. “I knew he was listening!” Cody exclaimed, pointing his finger at Aaron. Stefan grabbed Aaron by the ear and dragged him along the floor further into the room. Aaron had gone through a growth spurt in the last six months. At six-foot-two, he now stood shoulder to shoulder with his father but Stefan pulled him along as though he was no heavier than a feather. “Do you want to explain yourself?” Stefan put his hands on his hips and frowned at his son. Stefan’s nostrils flared and Aaron was sure he saw the vein in his father’s temple pulse. “Well, if you won’t tell me what’s going on with the pack, I have to find out for myself, don’t I?” Stefan rolled his eyes. “How many times do we have to tell you there is nothing going on with the pack?” “I’m not a kid anymore, Dad. When you are gonna start treating me like an adult?” www.total-e-bound.com

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“When you start acting like one,” Stefan boomed. “And stop listening at doors.” Aaron narrowed his eyes. “Is someone challenging you again?” “Oh, for pity’s sake!” Stefan threw his arms up in exasperation. “Cody, can you help me out here?” “Aaron, come sit over here.” Cody patted the bed next to him and smiled reassuringly. Aaron sighed, got up off the floor and walked across the room. He sat down next to Cody and waited to hear what he had to say. His father’s mate would be sure to tell him the truth. “No one has challenged your father’s position as alpha, I promise you.” “Then what’s with all the secrets?” Aaron asked. “You’re keeping something from me. I know you are.” Cody looked to his mate, as if for consent. Stefan’s shoulders slumped in resignation but he said nothing. Cody turned back to Aaron and nodded. “Yes. We have been.” “I knew it!” Aaron swallowed hard. Crap. This could be bad. “What’s wrong? Is it Dad? Is he sick?” Cody rolled his eyes. “Your father’s thirty-six, not seventy. There’s nothing wrong with him, or with me for that matter. We were working on a surprise for you.” Aaron looked up at his father and then back to Cody. “Huh?” “A surprise, you know…for your birthday.” “Oh. Oh!” “Yes, oh! Now that’s all we’re going to tell you. Any more, and it will completely ruin what we have planned.” Aaron leant forwards, eyes wide. “Are we going to see Kelan?” It had been months since Aaron had seen Cody’s elder brother. The few times he’d visited the ranch, Kelan had been in New York with his mate, Jake. Aaron had heard a lot about Kelan’s new mate but he’d yet to meet him. “Aaron. You’ve got to get over this infatuation you have with Kelan.” Stefan took a seat on the bed next to his son. “He’s mated now, you know that. Nothing could ever happen between the two of you. You’ll find your own mate soon enough, I promise.” “I know that, Dad. Jeez, I’m so over Kelan.” www.total-e-bound.com

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Aaron might have been attracted to the big, powerful alpha wolf when he’d first met him, but a lot had changed in the last six months. Aaron had not only grown in size but in strength. His own alpha instincts and power had increased tenfold. In the year he’d spent in college, Aaron had found himself increasingly attracted to smaller, somewhat fragile men. Men he could protect. “So are we going to see him?” “Well, sort of,” Stefan confirmed. “Stefan! What did you go and tell him that for?” Stefan shrugged. “He asked. I’m not going to lie to him.” “Yes! When do we leave?” Aaron was practically bouncing on the bed. He loved Texas and being on the ranch around the horses. He couldn’t think of anywhere on earth he’d rather be. “Well you’ve ruined the surprise now.” Cody pouted and crossed his arms over his chest. The action made him look younger than his years. “You might as well tell him the rest.” Aaron looked to his father expectantly. At first, he thought his father wasn’t going to tell him, but then Stefan sighed and nodded. “Okay, fine. We bought you a horse.” Aaron’s jaw practically hit the floor. “Stefan!” Cody’s face turned bright red. “Not that! I meant the other part.” “Oh, damn.” Stefan winced. His face coloured and he threw his mate an apologetic glance. “Oh my God! A horse! Are you kidding me? Where is it? When can I see it?” “Uh, yeah, so the other part I was supposed to tell you is that the council has agreed to accept my brother as pack leader. He’s going to be taking up the position in the next couple of weeks.” “Does that mean…?”Aaron was so excited he couldn’t finish the sentence. He stared at his father wide-eyed. “Yep. We’re going to be moving to Texas.” “Yes!” Aaron pumped his fist in the air. This was the best news he’d had all year, by far. “Is Mom coming?” www.total-e-bound.com

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Lavinia Lewis

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“I don’t know. You’re gonna have to speak to her about that. Your mom knows she’s welcome, but now that she’s dating Cole, she might not want to move away from New Mexico.” “Oh…right. I didn‘t think of that.” Aaron was happy that his mom had finally met someone to share her life with. She had been alone since before Aaron had been born, and although she tried to hide it from him, it was obvious she’d been lonely. Cole was a nice guy—genuine. Aaron liked him a lot, and he was good for her. In the few months Aaron’s mom had spent with Cole, she’d been happier than Aaron had ever seen her. “Look, we understand that what Leah decides might affect your decision, too, so you don’t have to make your mind up right now.” Cody patted Aaron on the back. “Have a chat to your mom first, okay?” “I want to come,” Aaron said quickly. “I’d rather Mom came too, but I still want to go even if she doesn’t.” Stefan nodded. “All right. We’ll talk to your mom together about it, okay?” “Okay. How long before we can move?” “Well, I’ve got a few things to arrange here first but if everything goes to plan then I’d say in about two weeks.” “Cool. Are we going to be staying at the ranch?” Stefan frowned. “I don’t know. We’re not sure if there’ll be room enough for all of us. The ranch only has four bedrooms. Kelan and his mate, Jake, have one. Luke and Mark are in the other. With Cody and me that would only leave one room, so it all depends on what your mom decides to do. If Leah wants to come too, then we’ll have to find ourselves a place in town.” “What about the bunkhouse?” Aaron asked. “I could sleep there.” “Aaron, the bunkhouse is for the cowboys that work there.” Here we go. Aaron had been waiting for this part. “I know that, Dad, but maybe I could work on the ranch. Kelan said he’d give me a job if I wanted one.” “What about college?” Stefan narrowed his eyes. “You promised me you’d think about going back.” www.total-e-bound.com

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Lavinia Lewis

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Aaron had known that his dad would give him shit about college, but what use was a business degree to someone who wanted to spend their days riding horses and working the land? “I have thought about it,” Aaron said. “And I really don’t think I’m cut out for college. I gave it a year like I promised, but it’s not for me. I’d rather work on the ranch.” “You could do a lot better for yourself with a college education.” “You never went to college and you do okay.” Aaron grinned, feeling triumphant. Let his father try and get out of that one. “Crap.” Stefan pleaded with his eyes for Cody to help him. “Aaron, it was different for your father. He had responsibilities as pack leader and with his father’s business interests.” “Maybe,” Aaron conceded. “But I’ve made up my mind, and I’m old enough to make my own decisions. And besides, there’s nothing wrong with wanting to work on a ranch.” Stefan huffed out a breath. “We’ll talk about this later.” His father could talk all he liked. Aaron knew what he wanted and no amount of talking was going to change his mind.

**** “Ack!” “Cary?” Kelan called. “Are you okay? What hap—?” Kelan strode into Misty’s stall and stopped short inside the door. Cary was lying flat on his back, arms flailing. He was covered head to toe in straw, horse manure and feed. He felt his face fill with heat when he noticed his boss trying to stifle a grin. He couldn’t blame the man. Cary might have laughed himself if his ass wasn’t sore and he wasn’t stinking of horse shit. “I…uh…slipped,” he explained. Kelan crossed the stall in two long strides and reached a hand down. Instinct took over and Cary threw his arms up over his head to protect himself. “I’m sorry.” Kelan stood up straight and backed away a few steps. “I was just… Damn it. I didn’t mean to scare you, I was just gonna give you a hand up.” www.total-e-bound.com

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Cary lowered his arms. Crap. He felt even more embarrassed than he had before. When was he going to stop jumping at his own damn shadow? His skittishness was making the people he worked with uncomfortable. “Sorry,” Cary’s voice was barely audible to his own ears over the pounding of his heart. “Don’t apologise. No harm done…but you do know I’d never hurt you, right? You’re safe here, I promise you that.” “I know.” Cary lowered his eyes. When he spoke again, he heard the crack in his voice. “I’m trying, I am. Please don’t fire me. I like it here.” “Now where would you get a crazy idea like that?” Kelan frowned and placed his hands on his hips. “I have no intention of firing you. You work hard—matter of fact, you’re the hardest worker I’ve got. I could do with more men like you around here.” Cary shook his head. “I’m clumsy.” He seated himself on the stall floor and brushed away the feed that covered his chest. “I drop things, I fall over, and I’m miserable. None of the other hands want to spend more than five minutes at a time with me.” Shit. Now he was trying to talk himself out of a job. What the hell was wrong with him? “You’re not miserable—you’re grieving—and if any of the hands are giving you shit, I wanna hear about it, understand?” Cary was relieved that Kelan didn’t mention his clumsiness. “No, everyone here has been nothing but nice to me, it’s not that. It’s…” He tried to keep the self-pity out of his voice. Cary didn’t want his boss to feel sorry for him. “It’s not them…it’s me. I’m trying to be normal, I am, but it’s hard.” “I know.” Kelan’s eyes softened and he gave Cary an encouraging smile. “It’s gonna take time. You went through a lot back in New York. I know Gill never treated you right but he was still your mate. You can’t expect to get over his death overnight.” “But it’s been six months, and it still hurts. What if I never get over it?” The part that worried Cary the most was that, although he was sorry to have lost the only mate he was ever likely to get, he didn’t miss Gill—not really—didn’t ache for him. Hell, Cary missed his cat, who’d died in the fire Gill set back in New York, more than he missed Gill.

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AARON’S AWAKENING

Lavinia Lewis

12

Just what sort of person did that make him? Sure, Gill had treated Cary badly—he’d almost killed him, in fact…on more than one occasion—but if they’d been mates then shouldn’t he feel worse than he did? Shouldn’t he feel something? Cary had missed Gill in the beginning, or so he’d thought. But now he wondered if he’d ever actually missed Gill at all, or if it was just the knowledge that he’d lost something he wouldn’t ever get again. There was no way he could explain all that to Kelan. The alpha loved Jake with a ferocity that Cary could never imagine feeling for another person, so he would never understand. Kelan was lucky. Cary had never had a connection like that…and probably never would. “You will get over it,” Kelan replied, tearing Cary out of his gloomy thoughts. “But you’ve got to give yourself time to heal properly.” Cary raised an amused eyebrow. “Time heals all wounds, huh?” Kelan met Cary’s gaze and grinned. “Exactly. Just don’t rush it. You’ll know when it’s time to move on and meet someone new.” Cary shook his head. “Oh no. Hell no, no way. I don’t want to meet anyone else. I couldn’t go through that again. It would kill me.” “Not all men are like Gill, you know. We don’t all use our fists. There are some decent men out there, but you have to be open to it. When the time is right, you’ll know.” “I guess.” Cary shrugged and lowered his eyes. He wasn’t so sure Kelan was right, but he didn’t want to talk about his problems anymore. Talking about them didn’t help. In fact, dwelling on everything that was wrong in his life made him feel worse. Fortunately, his boss didn’t press the matter. “I’ve got to get going,” Kelan reached for his Stetson, which was hanging on a hook outside the stall door. “My brother’s flight gets in a couple of hours from now and I’ve been roped into picking him up at the airport.” Cary’s mood brightened instantly at the mention of Kelan’s younger brother. “Cody’s getting here today?” Kelan nodded. “Yep, sure is, with Stefan and Stefan’s son, Aaron. Why don’t you call by the house later and say hello?” www.total-e-bound.com

AARON’S AWAKENING

Lavinia Lewis

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“I will.” Cary smiled, and for the first time in months it didn’t feel forced. “I like Cody and Stefan. They were good to me in New York and I didn’t get a chance to thank them properly before I left.” “Then you should come over for dinner. Luke’s cooking.” “No, I wouldn’t want to intrude.” “You wouldn’t. Besides, Luke always makes enough food to feed a small army, and we’ve got plenty of room.” “Thanks. I’ll think about it.” Kelan’s grin turned positively wicked. “It’s settled then. We’ll see you there at seven.” Damn. It looked like Cary was going to dinner. When Kelan left to go pick up his brother, Cary finished cleaning the stalls. As he worked, he thought about what Kelan had said to him. Sure, he felt lonely from time to time, and if he were being honest with himself he was sick to death of using his own hand to get off, but he simply couldn’t get involved with anyone else. What if they turned out to be just like his ex? He couldn’t take that chance. What man wanted someone as weak and pathetic as him, anyway? Cary had always been outgoing—not the life and soul of the party, exactly, but he went out, did things, made friends. Now he felt like a shadow of his former self. He never went out anymore, he never talked to people…hell, he was afraid to look anyone in the eye. He’d been different in New York, often going to bars and socialising, but that was before Gill had found him again. He’d thought he was safe there—thought he could finally make a fresh start and get on with his life—but he’d been wrong. His attempt at starting over had been ruined on the night of the fire. Gill’s last attack had changed Cary—it had broken something inside him that he didn’t know how to fix. He didn’t know if he would ever be able to trust anyone with his heart again. Until he healed, he knew it wouldn’t be fair to start a relationship with someone, not when he could only give them part of himself. It had to be all or nothing. He’d never done things by halves and he wasn’t about to start now. It was a moot point, anyhow. Cary worked on a ranch in Texas, completely surrounded by wolves. He wasn’t likely to meet someone here even if he wanted to. Cat shifters and wolves generally didn’t get along together. But Cary didn’t have a problem with any of the www.total-e-bound.com

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wolves here on the ranch. He liked Kelan…a lot. He was a good man with a big heart, always looking out for other people. He was one of the most decent people Cary had ever met, and his mate Jake was great, too. He’d been selfish when Cary had first known him back in New York, only ever thinking of himself, but he’d changed so much since he met Kelan. Cary couldn’t believe the difference sometimes. Kelan’s youngest brother, Luke, did the books for the ranch, and he was just adorable. His mate, Mark, worked as foreman, and they were rarely apart. Just as it should be. Cary didn’t spend a lot of time with the pair other than getting his daily duties from Mark, but he got along with both of them just fine. When he was living in New York, Cary had stayed with Cody and Stefan after Gill had set fire to his apartment building and he’d had no place else to go. They’d done everything in their power to see that Cary felt at home. He was grateful to them for that. He had yet to meet Stefan’s son, Aaron, but Stefan had talked about him nonstop in New York and, from what he’d learnt, he had no doubt they’d get along. They were around the same age and it seemed they had a lot in common. Kelan’s family were good folks, all of them. Sometimes Cary wondered what he’d done to deserve their help. But he’d learnt a long time ago not to look a gift horse in the mouth. Maybe he would go to dinner tonight after all. Cary chuckled to himself. As far as Kelan was concerned he was definitely going anyway, and it might do him good to get out and start socialising again. Cary shook his head, incredulously. Socialising with a pack of wolves, who would have thought?

**** “I’ll show you your room in the bunkhouse after dinner.” Kelan took a seat at the dining room table next to his mate. He leaned over and placed a kiss on Jake’s cheek. Jake smiled back lovingly. They seemed well matched. From what Aaron had seen of Jake so far, he liked him. “Okay, thanks.” Aaron took the seat next to his father, unable to keep the grin from his face. www.total-e-bound.com

AARON’S AWAKENING

Lavinia Lewis

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There was an extra bedroom in the ranch because Leah had decided to stay in New Mexico, but Aaron had still managed to convince Stefan he should live in the bunkhouse. If he was going to be working alongside the other men on the ranch, then he wanted to be treated just like them. They would never respect him if they thought of him as a pampered kid, getting special treatment because he was the son of the boss’s mate. He could work as hard as the next man. He’d work harder if he needed to, just to prove himself. Aaron studied Kelan from across the table. When he’d first seen Kelan again at the airport, he’d been surprised to feel absolutely nothing for the alpha wolf—not the slightest hint of attraction. He could hardly believe he’d been so hung up on Kelan in the first place. Sure, Kelan was an attractive man but that was where it ended. “When can I see my horse?” Aaron stared at his father in anticipation. They’d only arrived an hour ago and he was itching to get out and see the horses, especially now that he had his own. Aaron had only spent a couple of weeks at a time at the ranch in the past six months, but he’d missed the place every time he left. He felt comfortable here. Now, he felt excited to call it home. Stefan sighed. “The horse was a birthday present and since it’s technically not your birthday for another five months…” “What? No way, Dad. If I’m going to be working here, I’m gonna need him—aren’t I, Kelan?” Kelan’s mouth curled up into a playful smirk. “I’m going to stay out of this one.” “Don’t tease him, Stefan.” Cody placed his hand over his mate‘s. “You can go meet him later, Aaron.” “I can’t help myself.” Stefan chuckled then leant forwards and ruffled Aaron’s hair. “He’s so cute when he gets his fur in a knot.” Aaron felt his face heat from both anger and embarrassment. Christ, when is Dad going to quit treating me like a kid? “Where’s Mark hiding?” Aaron ignored Stefan’s comment and smoothed down his hair. “Uh, I think Luke’s in the kitchen,” Kelan replied. Jake, Cody and Stefan all nodded knowingly. When Kelan didn’t elaborate, Aaron stared at Kelan in confusion. “Huh?”

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Lavinia Lewis

16

It was Jake, Kelan’s mate, who leant forwards to clarify, “You’ll usually find Mark wherever Luke is.” Cody laughed. “Are they still as bad?” “You have no idea.” Kelan did a mock shudder. “It’s sickening.” Right on cue, Mark shouted from the kitchen, “Dinner’s almost ready!” “Good. I’m starving!” Aaron rubbed his hands together. It had been hours since the meal on the plane, if you could call it a meal. It was barely big enough to feed a sparrow. “Aaron, mind your manners.” Stefan chastised. Aaron rolled his eyes. Jesus. He was just saying… “We can’t start dinner yet anyway.” Kelan checked his watch and frowned. “Cary isn’t here.” “I’ll go and get him,” Aaron offered. Aaron had yet to meet Cary. He knew Cary had stayed with his father and Cody in New York for a short time before he moved to Texas, but they hadn’t told him much about the young panther. Aaron couldn’t wait to see him. He’d never met a cat shifter before and he was intrigued to find out more about him. Kelan nodded. “Okay. You’ll probably find him in the bunkhouse.” “And no sneaking off to see the horses,” Stefan added. Everyone around the table began to laugh and Aaron felt his face fill with heat. Again. It was becoming a common occurrence. He was tired of the constant quips. He tensed his jaw and glared at his father, gripping the edge of the table before he got up. Stefan only laughed harder. God, he couldn’t wait to move into the bunkhouse. He’d spent the past year in college enjoying being out from under his father’s thumb. He’d become accustomed to doing things his own way and having no one else to answer to. He liked the independence and sense of freedom, so it was hard to go back to living under his father’s roof and being told what to do. When would his father stop treating him like some clueless teenager who didn’t have his own mind? The early evening sun warmed Aaron’s face. It cast a pretty amber glow over the corral as he crossed the yard to the bunkhouse. Texas was hot in the summer but Aaron was used to the heat and revelled in it. He couldn’t wait to start working on the ranch. www.total-e-bound.com

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The front door to the bunkhouse was closed when he approached so he knocked loudly and stood waiting for an answer. A moment or two later a large wolf appeared and scowled at him. “Help you?” “Uh, I’m Aaron,” Aaron extended his hand to the gruff man. “Stefan’s son.” “Nate.” The wolf took hold of Aaron’s hand and shook it briefly. “Your room is through the hall, last door on the left.” “Oh, I’m not here for that. Not yet. I’ve come for Cary…he’s late for dinner.” Nate cocked his head to the side and stared at Aaron as though he had just sprouted another head. “Cary? Cary is eating dinner with y’all?” Aaron nodded. “Yes, sir.” What the hell was Nate’s problem? Couldn’t Cary eat dinner with friends if he wanted to? Nate frowned. He lifted his head and inhaled deeply. “Nope, not here.” Nate started to close the door on him and Aaron had to throw his arm out to keep it open. “Well, can you tell me where he might be, please?” Aaron hoped he’d caught Nate on a bad day. It would be uncomfortable living in such close quarters with someone this crotchety. “Probably with the horses,” Nate said. “Now, can I get back to my supper? It’s getting cold.” “Sure.” Aaron took his hand off the door. “Thanks.” Nate closed the door without another word. Aaron muttered to himself about Nate’s rude behaviour while he crossed the yard. He and Nate were going to come to blows when Aaron moved into the bunkhouse—Aaron was sure of it. As he approached the barn, a sweet, fragrant smell wafted out from one of the stalls. His nose twitched as he inhaled the unusual aroma. It delighted and teased his senses, and his dick jerked and grew until it became rock hard. What the heck? Without a conscious decision, Aaron’s body moved towards the smell. It was the most wonderful scent he had ever experienced. It was exotic and enchanting. It reminded him of fresh rainfall on a tropical isle. www.total-e-bound.com

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Aaron’s dick was so hard it was painful. He’d been in such a rush to get ready for dinner he’d forgone underwear, and now he was paying for it. His zipper was digging painfully into the over-sensitised flesh. He looked around the yard to be sure no one was watching, and then reached a hand down to adjust himself to a more comfortable position. The closer Aaron got, the stronger the smell became. Without warning, his eyes shifted to their wolf form and his incisors tore free from his gums. Shit. That had never happened to him before. Not even when he was a cub. Aaron had always had perfect control over his wolf, as did most alphas. He entered the barn and walked towards the stalls in an almost trance-like state. Aaron had to get to the source of the smell—it was calling out to him. He reached what he remembered to be Misty’s stall, took a deep breath and immediately regretted doing so. The scent hit him so hard he had to put a hand on the wall to steady himself. Whatever the hell it was made him feel dizzy. He waited for the wooziness to pass then pushed open the stall door. Misty was stood in the corner, her head turned away from the door. A small man with the finest ass Aaron had ever laid eyes on was bent over, brushing the horse’s front leg. Aaron nearly choked at the sight. His skin prickled and he began to shake. His wolf was howling within him and struggling to break free. Mate. Aaron knew it as surely as he knew his own name. This man was his. A low growl tore from Aaron‘s throat. He knew he couldn’t have stopped it even if he’d wanted to, because he wasn’t calling the shots anymore…his wolf was. The man jumped when he heard the sound and spun around to face him. Holy mother of God, he was beautiful. Aaron was speechless and he was never at a loss for words. The man was about five-foot-ten. He was slim, bordering on thin, with narrow hips and long, elegant legs. Aaron’s gaze travelled up the lithe body to the man’s face. It, too, was elegant. He had high cheekbones, a small, delicate nose and full, pink lips that begged to be kissed. Long, dark lashes framed eyes the colour of rich milk chocolate. Aaron frowned when the man’s fine, dark hair fell forwards, obscuring his mesmerising eyes. He needed to see them up close. www.total-e-bound.com

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When Aaron moved nearer, the man gasped. His eyes widened and he backed himself into the corner of the stall then slid sideways along the wall. Aaron wanted to tell him not to run, but the shock of meeting his mate had left him speechless. If he ran, Aaron knew without a doubt he wouldn’t be able to contain his wolf. It would happily hunt its mate if it had to. Hunt him down and claim him. Aaron moved forwards until he was inches away from this gorgeous specimen of a man. He was even more perfect up close. His lips were pink and plump and, as Aaron watched, the man’s tongue darted out to wet them. Aaron couldn’t wait a minute more to taste them. He grabbed his mate roughly and pulled him against his body. The man squirmed in his hands. He appeared to be struggling to escape but his eyes told a different story. They were filled with heat. His pupils were dilated, indicating his mate was as aroused as he was. Aaron pinned the smaller man against the wall and covered his mouth with his own. As soon as their lips touched, Aaron’s entire body responded. Was it possible to come just from kissing someone? Aaron pushed his tongue into the man’s mouth and groaned when he tasted his mate for the very first time. The man tasted every bit as good as he smelt. When their tongues met, the man’s earlier resistance ceased. He whimpered into Aaron’s mouth, opening his own wider before bringing his tongue out to play. Aaron’s dick was practically jumping for joy when his mate snaked his arms around his neck to hold him in place as he was kissed back with ferocious intensity. Aaron pulled away from his mate’s lips and looked down at his crotch. His dick was hard, as hard as Aaron’s own. He reached a hand down and palmed it before ripping open the button of his mate’s tight jeans. The button pinged off and skittered across the stall floor. Aaron barely noticed. He was too focused on the prize in front of him. He needed to feel his mate’s hard cock in his hand with nothing in between. He wanted to know what it felt like not only in his hands but also in his mouth. He had to know what it tasted like. “No!” Aaron’s gaze shot up to his mate’s face. His eyes pleaded with Aaron to stop. It was like being doused in a bucket of cold water. Aaron removed his hand and stepped back. What had he done wrong? Why did he want to stop? Didn’t he realise they were mates? “I don’t want this!” www.total-e-bound.com

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The man’s firm tone brooked no argument. His words made Aaron’s heart ache with sadness and despair. He stumbled backwards when his mate pushed him away. He watched in agony as the man ran from the barn, tears streaming down his beautiful face.

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Chapter Two

Cary ran from the barn as fast as his legs would carry him. His breathing was accelerated and his heart pounded loudly in his chest. If he didn’t calm down and get his emotions under control, he wouldn’t be able to contain his cat. What the hell had that been all about? He couldn’t think straight, could hardly breathe and the tears that were falling from his eyes in rapid succession fogged his vision. He hurried towards the bunkhouse but was cut off by Kelan and Stefan in the yard. “Cary? What’s wrong?” Kelan held an arm out to stop him. “Why are you crying?” Cary threw himself into Kelan’s arms with a sob. Tears streamed down his face, soaking through his boss’s blue cotton shirt. “What happened?” Stefan asked. “Did someone hurt you?” Cary nodded into Kelan’s chest. The muscles in his jaw were so tense he didn’t think he could open his mouth wide enough to speak. “Cary?” “I…I…” Cary’s mouth was as dry as the desert. His muscles trembled and he gripped Kelan’s shirt as though it were a lifeline. “It’s all right,” Kelan soothed. “You’re safe now. Tell us what happened.” What had happened? Cary wasn’t even sure himself. One minute he was grooming Misty, the next he’d been forcefully herded into the corner of the stall and kissed to within an inch of his life. And the feelings that had crashed through his body like a tidal wave had practically consumed him. He’d never felt like that before in his life, and that scared him. More so, the man had been rough and aggressive and had brought back memories Cary didn’t want to think about. The wolf had terrified him. “I was assaulted,” he said at last. Had he been? “I…I think.” “What the hell?” Cary was still frowning with his confusion when Kelan pushed him away from his body so he could see his face. “What do you mean assaulted? I don’t understand. Did someone here hurt you?” www.total-e-bound.com

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Before Cary could answer, the wolf came tearing out of the barn. Cary yelped and dived behind Kelan. Fear froze him in place behind the alpha’s much larger body, but as terrified as he was, he couldn’t stop the way his body responded to the wolf, and that scared him more than anything. What did it mean? “Him!” Cary shouted, pointing a shaky finger at the wolf. “It was him.” Stefan looked from Cary to the wolf and back again. He rubbed the back of his neck then shook his head firmly. “No, Cary, you must be mistaken,” Stefan said. “This is Aaron, my son.” Aaron? This was Aaron? This was the kind, sweet-tempered and fun-loving wolf Stefan had talked about? Seemed as though Stefan didn’t know his son very well. Aaron was nothing but a bully…and a domineering, aggressive bully at that. “You’re Cary?” Aaron walked forwards and stopped a few feet in front of Kelan. Cary couldn’t stop his body from trembling when Aaron approached. His stomach clenched and he heaved in a breath to combat a sudden wave of dizziness, but that only made matters worse. That scent. It was… What was it about that scent exactly? How could that be? Cary’s emotions were in turmoil. Shudders racked his body…and Cary wasn’t sure they stemmed from fear alone. “Ack!” Cary grabbed hold of Kelan’s arm and held on tight. “What the hell is going on?” Kelan asked. “Cary says you assaulted him.” Aaron jerked his head in Cary’s direction and stared at him, shock evident on his handsome face. “What? No. I… No.” Cary clung on to Kelan’s arm and nodded his head frantically. “I didn’t assault him,” Aaron said. He met Cary’s gaze and the emotion in his eyes nearly brought Cary to his knees. “I just kissed him is all.” Three sets of eyes turned to Cary. He still couldn’t get his trembling body under control, couldn’t understand what was happening or why. He lowered his head and for the first time, he noticed the tear from the missing button on his jeans. His zip was wide open and the tip of his cock was visible over the top of his briefs. He was still rock hard. “Crap!” He reached down and covered himself, discreetly doing up his zipper, feeling heat spread over his cheeks. Kelan spun around, eyes wide with fury. “What the fuck did you do to him?” www.total-e-bound.com

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“Hey!” Stefan boomed. “Don’t accuse my son! He hasn’t told his side of the story yet. Aaron, do you want to explain what happened back there?” When Aaron looked over at his father, his eyes were filled with sadness and confusion. Cary couldn’t understand why, but the look made his stomach ache. “I didn’t mean for it to go so far,” he all but whispered. “But I couldn’t control my wolf.” Cary could see the tick in Stefan’s jaw. He’d never seen him this angry. “Couldn‘t control your wolf?” he boomed. “What the hell do you mean?” “Cary’s my mate.” Aaron looked at Cary when he said the words and Cary felt his stomach lurch at the admission. Mate. After everything Gill had put him through, the word filled him with dread. Stefan snorted. “Don’t be ridiculous. You can’t be mated to him.” Cary gasped and stared at Stefan. He had thought Stefan liked him when they’d spent time together in New York, but maybe he was mistaken. Maybe Stefan didn’t think Cary was good enough for his son. Well, Stefan didn’t have anything to worry about. Cary was going nowhere near the dominant young wolf again. So what if that kiss had awakened something inside him he’d thought was dead and buried? Did it mean anything that the kiss had made Cary feel things he never had before…even with Gill? “Cary, I didn’t mean that the way it sounded.” Stefan’s ears turned bright pink, and the blush began to creep up his neck and spread across his face. “It’s nothing personal, I assure you, but you’re a cat shifter and Aaron’s a wolf. It’s impossible for you to be mated.” “Apparently not,” Aaron said, glaring at his father. “Cary?” Kelan’s voice was soft when he spoke, and it eased some of the tension Cary held in his shoulders. “Is this true?” “I…I don’t—It can’t be…” Cary stuttered, looking at Aaron. The wolf looked utterly miserable. Cary had a burning desire to wrap him in his arms and use his thumb to smooth out the creases on his forehead. But he couldn’t let himself think that way. Cary might not want to cause Aaron pain because he knew firsthand what that felt like, but it was better if he put an end to whatever this was between them before it even began. www.total-e-bound.com

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Besides, Aaron had practically forced himself on Cary. It had brought back painful memories of his ex, memories he had fought hard to forget. “It doesn’t matter,” he said at last. He would not allow himself to go through that again. He was still healing from the pain of what Gill had put him through. No…he had to be strong. “I don’t want anything to do with that…that caveman!” Aaron’s gaze fell to the ground. When he lifted his head to look at Cary, his eyes were filled with despair. The expression was raw, agonising and difficult to bear, but Cary couldn’t seem to look away. “Cary, please…” Aaron held out his hand and Cary hesitated for a moment. He chewed on his bottom lip. Part of him wanted nothing more than to reach out and take Aaron’s hand, but he couldn’t allow himself. He shrugged his shoulders and shook his head, his mind made up. “I’m sorry, I can’t. This isn’t going to work. You need to forget you ever met me.” Cary had to swallow the lump that formed in his throat when he saw tears trickle down Aaron’s face. The wolf looked inconsolable. It made Cary’s heart ache in the worse possible way. Kelan sighed. “Stefan, why don’t you take Aaron inside? I’ll stay here to talk to Cary.” Stefan nodded, grabbed hold of Aaron’s arm and tugged him towards the house. Cary tried not to watch as Aaron was led away from him but he failed miserably. The sadness and gloom that Cary could sense in Aaron stole his breath. Aaron had his head down as he trailed behind his father. It was a pitiful sight. Cary very nearly called out to Aaron—was a hair’s breadth away from asking him to come back—but he bit his tongue. What if I’m making a terrible mistake?

**** Aaron reached for a tissue and blew his nose loudly. He was sandwiched on the sofa between Cody and his dad. Cody was rubbing his back in a circular motion and making soothing noises while Stefan sat with his arms folded and his face like a thundercloud. Aaron had to swallow down the painful lump that had formed in his throat. In retrospect it was no excuse, but his wolf had been so excited to meet its mate, things had got www.total-e-bound.com

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out of control. The fact was, somewhere in the back of his mind, Aaron had assumed his mate—the person that was destined to be his—would be turned on by his dominance. It was a part of him…a part of his alpha nature and he wasn’t sure he could change. But he would try, if he had to. “Give him time, love, he’ll come around,” Cody said. Aaron noticed the scowl Stefan gave his mate before he turned to face him. “This is all for the best, Aaron. You’ll see that in time.” Aaron glared at his father. “How can you say that?” He sniffed and reached for another tissue. “He’s my mate. How can Cary not wanting me be for the best? Don’t you want me to be happy?” “Of course I do, just not with Cary.” His father was starting to piss him off. “What the hell is that supposed to mean? What have you got against him?” “I don’t have anything against Cary, but he’s a cat. It’s impossible for you to be mated to him.” “You keep saying that. But it’s obviously not impossible, is it?” Stefan frowned. It looked as though his father was struggling to find the right words before he spoke. He had better choose his words carefully, because Aaron wasn’t in the mood for a lecture. “I don’t mean it’s impossible for the two of you to be mated, although I’ve never met anyone it happened to before today. What I mean is, it’s not possible for you to be together. Cross-species mating is strictly forbidden, love. There are rules.” Aaron tensed his jaw and ground his teeth together. He seemed to be constantly at odds with his father lately. “You think I give a shit about rules?” “Watch your language,” Cody chastised. “And what do you mean rules? What rules?” “The supernatural council has rules about this sort of thing. They don’t allow bonds between different species.” “Why not?” Cody asked. “From what I understand the children that were born out of these pairings were born deformed in some way, and so the council outlawed all mating between different species.” “But Kelan is mated to a human,” Aaron argued. “The council didn’t have anything to say about that.” www.total-e-bound.com

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“Well, it’s different between humans and wolves. Human women can carry the wolf gene on to their children, and no deformities have ever been reported to the supernatural council from those pairings. “Generally, as wolves live in packs and are governed by a pack leader, the council doesn’t get involved in pack politics—except, of course, for the odd occasion when they are called in to mediate over something…as they were when Leah’s brother challenged my position as alpha.” “I thought those wolves were from the wolf council.” Aaron swallowed and blotted his eyes with the tissue. “They were but even the wolf council is not an independent entity. It answers to a higher power. You can think of it as a sort of division of the supernatural council.” “So who runs this supernatural council?” Cody asked. “It’s a special branch of the government that deals specifically with shifters and other supernatural beings.” “No shit.” Aaron frowned. “I don’t understand. What has all this got to do with me and Cary?” “Well, although the council doesn’t take much of an interest in wolves, it plays a far more active role in the lives of cat shifters.” “Why?” Cody asked. “I guess it’s because cat shifters don’t belong to packs. And as they are not governed by the moon once a month like we are, they integrate far more easily into society. The council has to keep a close eye on them to ensure they are not causing any trouble around humans or exposing their secret.” “Huh, I never knew any of that,” Cody said. “I only know because of my dealings with the wolf council since its investigation of Leah’s brother. There are lots of things I’ve discovered since then. Seems I didn’t know much of anything.” “What happens if they find out about Cary and me?” “I don’t know exactly.” Stefan cleared his throat and averted his eyes from Aaron when he next spoke. His father always did that when he had something to say he knew Aaron www.total-e-bound.com

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wouldn’t care for. “But I assume you’d be brought in front of a tribunal. You’d be…punished in some way.” Aaron couldn’t believe what he was hearing. “Punished! But it’s not our fault we’re mated.” “I know, love, but I don’t think that will make any difference to the council…that is, if you pursue a relationship with Cary. If you don’t, then chances are they’ll never find out about it.” “But he’s my mate.” Aaron sniffed again. The whole situation was hopeless. It wasn’t the council that bothered Aaron the most, though. It was the fact that his mate didn’t want him. Aaron had never felt so hurt. “It doesn’t matter anyway. Cary doesn’t want anything to do with me. Do you think it’s because of how I reacted when I found him?” “No, there’s more to it than that.” Cody winced as soon as the words left his mouth. Aaron caught the knowing look that passed between Cody and his father. It was obvious they knew something about Cary they weren’t telling him. It made sense. Cary had spent time living with them both in New York. They would have had time to get to know him. And there was clearly a reason Cary was staying with them in the first place. “What are you hiding?” Aaron looked at his father and Cody in turn. It was Cody that answered. “I’m sorry, but it’s not our place to tell you. You’ll have to speak to Cary about that.” “Then how am I going to find out what’s going on? Cary won’t even talk to me.” “Let’s wait and see what happens when Kelan gets back, okay? Matter of fact, I think it would be better if you let things lie until morning. Cary will have had a chance to calm down. Maybe he’ll be ready to talk to you then. Why don’t you go and get some rest? You can use the spare bedroom next to ours for now.” That wasn’t what Aaron wanted to hear, but what choice did he have? If he went charging to the bunkhouse to talk to Cary, he’d likely only make things worse and he’d done enough damage for one day. Maybe Cody was right. The best thing he could do would be to wait until morning, and then try to talk to his mate. Aaron had no doubt it was going to be a very long night. “Okay. I’m gonna go to bed then. I’ll see you in the morning.” Aaron lifted himself from the sofa and walked towards the hall. www.total-e-bound.com

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“What about dinner?” Stefan called after him. “You should eat something first.” Aaron shook his head. “I seem to have lost my appetite.”

**** “Here, drink this.” Kelan held out a glass, half-filled with an amber-coloured liquid. Cary eyed it suspiciously before reaching for it. He took a large gulp of the Scotch and immediately began choking and spluttering. “Ugh. How the hell can anyone like this shit?” he asked when he finally stopped coughing. “Now I know why I don’t drink.” Kelan shrugged. “It’s an acquired taste. Are you ready to talk about what went on back there?” “There’s nothing to talk about.” Cary placed the glass on the coffee table in front of him and crossed his arms petulantly. Kelan shook his head. “There’s plenty to talk about. Is Aaron your mate?” Cary met Kelan’s eye and sighed. “He can’t be. I already had a mate and he’s dead. You can’t have two mates.” “No, you can’t,” Kelan agreed. “Not at the same time. But it is possible to find another mate after one has passed. It’s rare, but it does happen.” “And is there some unwritten law that says your second mate has to be as big an asshole as your first?” “So he is your mate.” Shit. Cary nodded resignedly. There was no point denying it, even to himself. He had absolutely no doubt in his mind that Aaron was his mate, and that’s what worried him. “Yes. Yes he is.” “This doesn’t have to be a bad thing, you know. Aaron is a nice guy. If you take the time to get to know him you’ll see that.” “A nice guy! You didn’t see what he was like in the barn. He was rough and forceful, really aggressive. He scared me.” “I don’t think it was intentional. Aaron is an alpha wolf so he’s dominant by nature. You have to try to understand how it is for wolves when we find our mates, especially www.total-e-bound.com

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alphas. It’s intense. And Aaron is young so it will be even more difficult for him to control his wolf.” “Don’t patronise me, Kelan. I might not be a wolf but I am a shifter.” “I’m just saying I think you need to give Aaron a chance. Believe me, he’s nothing like Gill.” “You can’t know that for certain. When Gill first hit me, no one would believe me. Gill always behaved like the perfect gentleman around his friends and family. It wasn’t until later in our relationship that he started to show his true colours in front of the people we knew. Besides, it’s impossible to know what someone is really like until you live with them and know them intimately.” “I realise that, but how will you know what Aaron is really like if you don’t give the relationship a go? You have a second chance here. You could be happy together. You can’t live the rest of your life not letting anyone close in case you get hurt again.” Cary couldn’t see any reason why not. It might not be any fun being lonely but it was a damn sight better than being hurt. Cary remembered some of the things Gill had done to him and shivered. “Sounds like a perfectly good plan to me.” “What it sounds like is lonely.” Cary shrugged. “I’d rather be lonely than have to go through all that pain and heartache again.” “You realise this is going to crush Aaron, don’t you?” “I knew you’d take his side!” Kelan might have been good to him but when it came right down to it, Aaron was a part of his family. Cary couldn’t compete with that. “I’m not taking sides. I just want you to think very carefully about this because your decision doesn’t only affect you…it affects Aaron, too.” Cary had spent his life worrying about other people. He had to put himself first. “He’ll get over it.” Kelan frowned. “Are you sure of that?” Cary wasn’t sure of anything, but he hoped it was true. A more prudent question was would Cary get over it? Especially if what he suspected was true. He let out a long, calming breath, making a decision. There was probably no better person to talk to about this than Kelan. www.total-e-bound.com

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“Do you mind if I ask you something? It’s kinda personal.” “Of course, you can ask me anything. If it’s too personal, I’ll let you know.” “What did it feel like when you met Jake?” Kelan frowned for a moment as though he hadn’t been expecting that question. “Well, it’s a difficult thing to put into words. It felt incredible, of course, like I found the other half of my soul, and like I’d finally unearthed something I’d been searching for, even though I hadn’t known I was looking. Does that make sense?” “Yes, it does actually. It makes a lot of sense.” “What is it, Cary? What’s bothering you? I don’t know what it’s supposed to feel like for cats when they find their mates, but I’d assumed it would feel pretty much the same way that it does for wolves. Don’t you feel that way for Aaron? Can’t you feel the pull of the mating bond?” “Yes, and that’s exactly my problem.” “I’m not sure I understand.” “I feel the pull of the bond with Aaron, and there’s no doubt in my mind that he’s my mate, even though I might wish it wasn’t true. But…I never felt like that with Gill. I didn’t feel the bond in this way at all.” “But if you didn’t feel the bond, how could you have known Gill was your mate?” Cary chewed on his lip. How had he known? He’d never thought to question their relationship but the new discovery about Aaron was making him question everything in his life, everything he’d believed to be true. “Because Gill told me he was,” Cary said at last.

**** It had been a very long night. Before first light, when Aaron couldn’t stand another moment alone with his thoughts, he took a quick shower, dressed and went outside for a walk. He had hoped some fresh air would help clear his mind and lift his mood, but it had the opposite effect on him.

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As soon as he left the ranch and the bunkhouse came into sight, all hope dissolved. His mate was in there at that very moment. Had Cary slept well? Or had he been awake all night like Aaron—his mind and heart in turmoil? Aaron rolled his eyes as he headed out past the corral towards the woods that led to the river. Why would Cary have had a sleepless night? He’d made his feelings about their mating perfectly clear. He wanted nothing to do with Aaron. Aaron only wished he knew the reason why. It couldn’t simply be because Aaron had been dominant. Aaron hadn’t imagined the desire he’d seen in Cary’s eyes. It had fuelled his own need. There had to be more to Cary’s resistance than Aaron’s behaviour when they met. He walked on until the morning sun started to peek through the treetops. He found a path that cut through the woods and followed it until he reached a clearing that led on to the river. Several times he thought about turning back, but there was no point. It was still early. Kelan wouldn’t be awake yet, and he was going to be showing Aaron what his duties on the ranch were today. Aaron kept on walking until the river came into view. When he neared the edge of the trees, Aaron stopped short. Surprise prevented him from moving another inch. His nostrils flared and his heart rate quickened. He had to stifle a groan when his dick began to harden in his jeans. Cary was seated on a rock near the river, his horse tied to a nearby tree. He had his elbows rested on his knees and his head in his hands. Aaron wanted to move closer. If he could talk to Cary to find out what was holding him back, maybe they could work things out. But something stopped him from leaving his hiding place. Cary had seemed almost afraid of him yesterday. It probably wouldn’t be the best idea to confront him while they were alone in the woods. Aaron might make things worse. He wanted Cary to talk to him when he was ready to do so. He couldn’t force himself on the man. He’d done that once already and look how that had turned out. As hard as it was for him to accept, his whole future rested in Cary’s hands. Aaron watched Cary for another few moments, desire and doubt at war inside his mind. With a heavy heart, he turned away then quietly made his way back to the ranch. For the entire walk, Aaron’s dick was harder than a damn rock. He couldn’t believe the effect his mate had on his body. Still, he was more than used to using his own hand to get www.total-e-bound.com

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off…although it had never occurred to him he’d have to keep doing that once he’d found his mate.

Cary yawned loudly as he crossed the yard to the barn. Misty was to be put out in the corral for the morning with the other horses—then when he finished mucking out the stalls, he had to ride fence with Nate. He usually enjoyed the time he spent with Nate—probably because the man seemed as messed up as he was. When Cary had first met him, he’d been intimidated by the large, gruff wolf. But in the six months he’d spent working alongside Nate, he’d come to respect the man…like him, even. Cary was certain Nate’s brusqueness was a defence mechanism to keep people at a distance. They were alike in so many ways. Cary recognised a sadness in Nate, not dissimilar to his own. Was Nate grieving, too? Nate wasn’t much of a talker, but that was fine with Cary. He didn’t feel like talking much himself today…not after the night he’d had. Most of it he’d spent staring at the ceiling, his mind in complete chaos. And throughout it all, his dick had been painfully hard. How was it possible to be in such despair and yet so aroused at the same time? Jacking off hadn’t helped either. At first, he couldn’t come at all. It was only when he pictured himself on his knees while Aaron thrust roughly in and out of his mouth that Cary’s dick finally cooperated. Aaron was simply stunning. Even Cary couldn’t deny that. He’d always had a thing for tall men and Aaron must be at least six-two. He had thick, wavy brown hair and the bluest of all blue eyes. They were captivating. When Cary looked into Aaron’s eyes, he’d had to quickly turn away. It had felt as though he was looking into Aaron’s very soul and that wasn’t a good thing. He was afraid of what he might see there. Eventually Cary had come, crying out Aaron’s name and painting his stomach and chest with his sticky seed. It was the hardest he’d come in a long time, yet he didn’t feel sated. Sleep still eluded him. He gave up on the prospect of getting any rest around four and took Firebolt out to the river. Normally a ride on one of the horses eased the loneliness and despair Cary felt inside, but today it only made him feel worse. While he sat alone by the water, all Cary could think about was Aaron. The pain he’d witnessed in the wolf’s eyes had caused an ache in his chest that refused to go away. www.total-e-bound.com

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And then there was the issue with Gill. Was it possible that Gill had lied to him all along? Cary couldn’t get his head around that. Why would someone pretend to be mated? It didn’t make sense. But it would sure explain why Cary hadn’t felt connected to Gill. He’d been attracted to him, of course. Gill was older, more experienced and so, so handsome. Cary’s stomach had lurched when they’d met, unable to believe how beautiful Gill was, and he’d been amazed when Gill had said they were mates. He couldn’t believe his luck. Cary felt like such an idiot. How could he not have known? But he’d been young, and he’d never spoken to anyone about what it felt like when you found your mate. He never in a million years thought that it could be something that someone would lie about. He yawned again, stretching his arms behind his back. He had always had trouble sleeping. Well, maybe not always, but certainly since he’d met Gill. Even in the beginning, before Gill started hitting him, Cary would wake abruptly in the middle of the night, his body covered in a cold sweat. Bad dreams plagued his slumber, and although he didn’t always remember what they’d been about, he knew Gill featured heavily in them. He should have heeded the warning. He should have known, but he’d been blind to everything. There had been signs right at the start of their relationship that Gill wasn’t all that he seemed…that he had been hiding something. But Cary had been infinitely naïve—he hadn’t thought it possible to be hurt in such a way by one’s mate. He smiled bitterly. Only Gill hadn’t been his mate, had he? It was so obvious to him now, Cary felt like a fool for not realising it earlier. And then there was Aaron. What if he was like Gill, too…nothing but a liar and a bully. Could Kelan be right about him? It was intense when you met your mate. Cary knew that logically, but his past experience had made him loath to open his heart to the wolf, just in case. The most frustrating thing was that, apart from the fear of getting hurt again, Cary felt none of the unease about Aaron that he’d felt about Gill. Aside from the aggressiveness Aaron had first displayed, the wolf had a gentleness about him. He showed vulnerability in a way Gill never had. Cary was about to enter the barn when he heard voices coming from the corral. No, not just voices—Aaron’s voice. www.total-e-bound.com

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A shiver ran the length of his body and he cursed under his breath when he felt his dick start to harden. He couldn’t believe that the wolf’s voice alone aroused him. He knew he should just ignore Aaron’s presence and go on with his daily routine, but Cary couldn’t get his feet to cooperate with his mind. And in that moment his mind didn’t seem too clear about what it wanted, either. His cat was mewling for another glance at his mate… Cary edged to the side of the barn and peered around the corner. His stomach flipped and his cock twitched when he caught sight of his mate standing just inside the corral, petting Thunder. Aaron was gently stroking his hand down the horse’s neck and speaking softly to the beautiful creature. For one insane moment, Cary wished it was his body Aaron was running his hands over. Before he had a chance to process what was happening, a low purr was rumbling in his chest and he had to fight with his cat to keep from walking over to the wolf and rubbing up against him. Shit. Evidently his cat had none of the inner turmoil Cary had. His cat knew exactly what he wanted…he wanted his mate. “Yes, you’re beautiful, aren’t you?” Aaron ran his fingers through the mane of hair on his horse’s neck. The horse lowered his head and butted his nose against the pocket of his jeans. Aaron chuckled. “And here I thought it was me you wanted to spend time with, but you’re just looking for treats, aren’t you?” Cary watched Aaron pull something out of his pocket and feed it to the horse. “Yes, you like that, don’t you, boy?” The horse took the treat from Aaron’s outstretched hand, whinnied and nodded his head. Cary fought with his emotions while Aaron continued to pet the horse. “At least you want to spend time with me, whatever the reason.” Cary’s heart ached when he heard Aaron’s softly spoken words. When Aaron sighed and his shoulders slumped forwards, Cary gave up the fight between his heart and his head. He moved from his beside the river and crossed to the edge of the corral. His steps faltered as he approached. What the hell am I doing? If he didn’t want any sort of relationship with Aaron then it would be best for both of them if he kept his distance. But try telling that to his damn dick. It grew harder the closer he got, until Cary knew the bulge would be visible should Aaron choose to look. www.total-e-bound.com

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Cary knew Aaron had sensed his presence when the wolf lifted his head, his nose twitching, scenting the air. Aaron spun around and gasped when he saw Cary standing just a short distance away from him. Aaron’s eyes shifted to their wolf form and his canine teeth protruded from his gums. He growled and the sound made shivers course through Cary’s body, but instead of sending him running for the hills in fear, the sound only excited him. Images of Aaron growling as he thrust into him had Cary almost coming where he stood. But just as the sound excited Cary, it terrified Thunder. The horse neighed loudly, his eyes wide with both fear and panic. He rose up on his hind legs and when Aaron turned the horse kicked him full force in the chest. Aaron flew back and hit the fence behind him with a loud crack. Aaron grunted and fell forwards to the ground. His hands rose to protect his head when the horse lifted its front legs to kick him again. Panic engulfed Cary, and he didn’t think before he acted. He rushed forwards, leapt over the fence and stood in a protective stance in front of his mate. He clapped his hands and shouted at the horse in an effort to scare him away. It must have worked because Thunder put his front legs back on terra firma and snorted before turning and running to the other end of the corral. “Oh my God, are you okay?” Cary knelt down beside Aaron and brushed the stray hair from the side of his face. Aaron’s face broke out into a wide smile that made his eyes sparkle and made Cary’s breath hitch. “I am now.” Shit. What the hell was he doing touching Aaron? Cary came to his senses at once. He tore his hand away and let it fall to his side. Aaron sighed and the sparkle in his eyes dimmed slightly. “You don’t have to be afraid of me, you know. I’d never hurt you.” Cary snorted. “Right, I’ve heard that one before.” Aaron frowned. “Not from your mate you haven’t.” Cary stared at Aaron in confusion. Didn’t he know about Gill? He assumed Stefan or Kelan would have told him what had happened to him. www.total-e-bound.com

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“Actually, that’s exactly who I heard it from, or so I thought.” “I don’t understand.” Aaron tried to sit up but the movement must have caused him pain because he gasped and his hand flew to his chest. “Oh God, you’re hurt. Here, let me help you.” He put his arm around Aaron’s shoulders and helped lift him into a seated position. He winced at the obvious pain and discomfort on his mate’s face. When Aaron was upright, he lifted his head and met Cary’s eyes. “What did you mean before?” “Forget it. I don’t want to talk about it.” Cary did not want to go into what had happened to him, it wasn’t the right time. But will there ever be a right time? He should end this now before it was even more difficult to do so, but he couldn’t seem to move. He couldn’t tear his eyes from Aaron’s, and he couldn’t shift the arm that was still draped around his mate’s shoulder. When hurt and confusion clouded Aaron’s eyes, all Cary wanted to do was wrap him in his arms and comfort him. His head was screaming for him to stop but he ignored the warning, leant forwards and gently pressed his lips to his mate’s. Aaron groaned, pressing closer and snaking his tongue out to trace along the seam of Cary’s lips. The base of Cary’s spine tingled and he felt his balls swell and draw up close to his body when Aaron’s tongue entered his mouth and danced with his own. Crap, I shouldn’t be doing this but it feels so good. Aaron slid his arm around Cary’s waist and tugged him closer until the top halves of their bodies were pressed firmly together. He grunted loudly. Cary wasn’t sure if it was the effect of the kiss or because of the pain in Aaron’s chest. But Aaron didn’t complain and the kiss grew heated until it was a frenzy of lips, teeth and tongues. Cary grabbed a handful of Aaron’s hair and used it to hold his head in place while he devoured Aaron’s mouth with a need he hadn’t known he possessed. He knew he must stop. This had already gone too far but the kiss felt so right. It had been a long time since Cary had felt this alive—if ever—and he didn’t want the feeling to end. Would it hurt to allow himself one little kiss? Aaron tasted incredible and the passion and intensity he was displaying was sending Cary into orbit. If Cary was deriving this much pleasure from a simple kiss, then having the wolf in his bed would be electric… www.total-e-bound.com

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No, he shouldn’t think about that. They couldn’t take this any further than they already had. “Quit thinking so much,” Aaron drew back from Cary’s lips and traced kisses along his jaw line and down his throat. He scraped his teeth along the vein in Cary’s neck and suddenly Cary was right on the edge, without the slightest concern of falling. “Cary Lewis?” Somewhere in his lust-filled haze, Cary was aware of someone speaking his name. Aaron pulled away from Cary’s throat and turned his head. Cary was about to protest but when he turned to look in the same direction, he saw there was a man standing outside the corral. He was resting his arms on the top post of the fence and regarding Aaron and Cary with an amused expression. “Shit.” Cary jumped up and brushed himself off, aware of the bulge in his jeans that was wilting rapidly under the man’s steady gaze. “I’m Cary Lewis. Who are you?” “I’m Gregory Hale.” The man’s eyes flicked to Cary’s groin and lingered for a moment before he looked up and met Cary’s eyes. His grin broadened. He stretched out his hand for Cary to shake. “I’m from the supernatural council. I think you and I need to have a little chat.”

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Chapter Three

Aaron’s head jerked up when the man introduced himself. The supernatural council? What the hell were they doing here? And what did they want with Cary? Aaron tried to remember what his father had told him yesterday about the council and cross-species mating. They couldn’t have found out about his and Cary’s mating already, could they? How was that possible? Cary walked forwards and shook the man’s hand. “Pleased to meet you.” Gregory nodded. “Likewise.” Cary shuffled nervously as he addressed the other shifter. “What can I do for you today?” Aaron ignored the pain in his chest and rose to a standing position. He didn’t know what the council wanted with his mate but he intended to stand by Cary’s side regardless, especially if this had something to do with him. He definitely didn’t like the heat he saw in Gregory’s eyes when he looked at his mate. He felt a warning growl begin in his chest but he forced it back. It wouldn’t do to show the man his feelings for Cary. He had already seen too much. Cary frowned when Aaron stepped next to him but he didn’t say anything. Aaron noticed Gregory paying close attention to their actions. “Is there someplace we can talk in private?” Gregory asked. Aaron opened his mouth to object but Cary spoke up before he had a chance to say anything. “It’s okay. You can talk openly. I’ve got nothing to hide.” Gregory nodded and glanced at Aaron again before he spoke. “The council sent me here to check on you. It’s been a few months since they last heard from you.” Cary frowned. “I didn’t realise I had to check in. Is there some reason the council is keeping such a close eye on me?” www.total-e-bound.com

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“It’s standard with cats, especially after what happened to your mate. Some don’t cope very well with the situation. They can go feral. But you seem to be coping just fine.” Gregory’s mouth curved up into a smirk and his eyes fell upon Aaron. Aaron looked on in confusion. Mate? What the hell is the guy talking about? He turned to Cary, his eyebrows raised in question. Cary looked like a deer caught in headlights. He looked as though he hadn’t expected Gregory’s statement. “Cary? What is he talking about? What does he mean by that? Your mate?”Aaron knew now wasn’t the time to discuss this, but when Cary wasn’t forthcoming with a reaction to Gregory’s statement, he felt forced to ask the question. He was hoping Gregory had made a terrible mistake but the look in Cary’s eyes told him all he needed to know. “It’s a long story,” Cary said at last. He sighed loudly then turned back to Gregory. “And I’m doing just fine, thank you, so you can go and tell the council they don’t have anything to worry about.” Aaron stared at Cary open-mouthed. Cary had another mate? How was that even possible? Aaron could see his whole world collapse around him. So that was the reason Cary didn’t want him. He already had a mate. But where was he? Why weren’t they together? It didn’t make a lick of sense. And what about the kiss they’d just shared? If Cary already had another mate and didn’t want Aaron, why would he lead him on that way? What sort of person would do something like that? “Maybe this isn’t the best time to talk about this.” Gregory was looking at Aaron when he spoke. “Actually this isn’t the only thing I need to discuss with you, Cary. I can come back later if you’d prefer, when it’s more convenient for you.” Cary looked at Aaron then nodded. “Thank you, yes. Can you come back this afternoon?” “Of course. I’m staying at Marnie’s Guesthouse so if you need to get in touch with me, you can reach me there. Otherwise I’ll be back here at…” Gregory checked his watch. “Shall we say six this evening?” Cary nodded his agreement. “Yes, six is good.” Aaron was dimly aware of Gregory’s departure but he didn’t look at the man as he left. He couldn’t take his eyes off his mate. Cary looked uncomfortable. His gaze was resting on www.total-e-bound.com

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the ground and he was nervously shifting from foot to foot. Finally he lifted his head, his expression contrite. “I’m sorry. I should have told you.” Aaron could feel tears beginning to form behind his eyes but he did his best to keep them at bay. He felt like an idiot. No wonder Cary didn’t want him. “Yes, you should have. How could you forget to mention you already have a mate? That’s hardly something you could have overlooked.” Aaron lowered his gaze. It was a struggle for him to choke out the words and he didn’t want to see pity in Cary’s eyes when he looked back at him. He couldn’t stand that. “Had,” Cary corrected. “I had a mate…sort of.” “And for that matter how could you kiss…” Aaron’s head jerked up. “What did you say?” Cary huffed out a breath. “I said I had a mate. Past tense. Look, it’s complicated.” “But…where is he now?” “Gill is dead.” Aaron let out the breath he’d been holding. He was relieved to hear Cary’s answer but when he saw the pain and sadness in Cary’s eyes, he felt ashamed of himself. “I’m sorry.” Aaron meant it. As much as he wanted Cary for himself, he would never wish the death of a mate on anyone. His own mother had lost her mate many years ago and she had never got over it. It had happened before Aaron was born and although his mother had shown him nothing but love, sometimes the pain and sadness in her eyes when she looked at him was so strong, he had to look away. “How did he die?” “Uh…” Cary’s face turned a furious shade of red. “Kelan killed him.” Aaron gasped. “What did you say?” “You heard me right, but it’s not as bad as it sounds. I mean it is, but…oh God. This is really difficult to explain.” “You don’t have to tell me if you don’t want to.” As much as Aaron wanted to know what had happened, he didn’t want Cary to relive memories that were painful for him. “I understand if it’s too difficult for you.” Cary shook his head. “No, you deserve to know. Do you want to get a cup of coffee? I think I need one.” www.total-e-bound.com

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“Okay, sure.” Aaron followed Cary to the bunkhouse. Nate was stepping out of the door just as they were about to enter. He took in Cary’s slumped shoulders and eyed Aaron suspiciously. “Cary? Everything okay?” “Yeah. I’m sorry—I’m going to be late with the fences.” Nate waved away Cary’s apology. “Don’t worry about it. I can start without you. Meet up with me later when you’re ready.” “Thanks. I appreciate it.” Nate glanced at Aaron again and scowled. What the hell was this guy’s problem? “I’ll stay with the horses for a while. Holler if you need anything.” “Will do.” When they were inside the bunkhouse and Cary had closed the door behind them, Aaron whistled. “Jeez, what is it with that guy? Is he always that grouchy? Or is it just me that gets him rattled?” “Oh, don’t pay Nate any mind. He’s great when you get to know him.” Aaron looked over his shoulder at the closed door and frowned. “Are you sure of that? He doesn’t seem very friendly to me.” But he’d been perfectly charming to Cary. Maybe Nate had a thing for him, or… Aaron’s nostrils flared, his eyebrows pulled together and his jaw muscles clenched. “Have you and Nate ever…” Shit, how could he ask this question? Was it even his business to know? “Have we ever what?” Cary asked, turning around to face him. “Have you ever, you know…” Cary’s eyes widened and his mouth fell open. “No, we have not. Nate’s old enough to be my father! Besides,” Cary lifted his chin and looked down his nose at Aaron, “what business is it of yours?” Aaron wanted to scream at Cary that it was his business. He was his mate, God damn it. But Cary was watching him very carefully as though he expected just that reaction. “I guess it’s not,” Aaron replied. www.total-e-bound.com

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Cary’s mouth opened again with an almost audible pop. He stared at Aaron like he was just seeing him for the first time. Then he shook his head, turned and headed to the kitchen. “Come on, I’ll put the coffee on.” Cary got to work in the kitchen. Aaron had a dozen questions in his head but he waited until Cary was ready before he spoke. His mate poured out two large mugs of coffee and placed one in front of Aaron before sitting down at the small dining table. “How can you have two mates?” It was the question that was bothering Aaron the most. Cary shrugged. “Technically I don’t. I just have one—you.” “I didn’t know it was possible to find another mate after one died.” “Neither did I. Kelan said although it’s possible, it’s rare.” “Do you miss him?” “Gill? No. I mean, yes and no. It’s hard to explain. I thought I did, at first, but Gill hurt me…a lot. So in that respect I don’t miss him, no.” Aaron felt anger rise inside him. How could anyone harm someone as sweet and fragile as Cary? Aaron could never hurt a hair on his body. He wanted to do everything in his power to protect him. “How did he hurt you?” Cary’s face filled with colour. His pupils dilated and his breathing sped up. “He used to hit me.” His words were so quiet Aaron had to lean forwards on the table to hear him. Cary’s hushed admission made Aaron so angry, his eyes shifted to their wolf form and a low, rumbling growl tore from his chest. Cary gasped and when Aaron looked at his mate his eyes were wide with something bordering on fear. His chair scraped against the floor when Cary pushed away from the table. “Shit, sorry.” Aaron closed his eyes and tried to steady his breathing to help him calm down. After a few moments, he felt them shift back to normal. “I didn’t mean to scare you. It just makes me so angry to hear that. How could he do that to you?” Cary shoulders relaxed and he shrugged. “I don’t know. He almost killed me, on more than one occasion.” Aaron’s stomach lurched violently. If he’d eaten breakfast that morning, he was sure he wouldn’t have been able to keep it down. “I’m so sorry.” www.total-e-bound.com

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“Why? It wasn’t your fault.” “I know, but I wish you didn’t have to go through something like that. You said Kelan killed him?” Cary nodded. “After one particularly bad beating, I left Gill and moved to New York to try and start a new life. I thought I was safe there but he found me. He started following me. He found out about me and Jake and…” Aaron gasped. “You and Jake? You were together?” “It was nothing.” Cary dismissed it with a wave of his hand. “We only hooked up a couple of times. But Gill found out and started stalking Jake, too. Kelan and Jake found out about Gill and came to my apartment to talk to me about him. Gill set fire to the whole building and tried to kill me and Jake. If it hadn’t been for Kelan…”

Cary watched as Aaron frowned and looked down at the table. He was chewing on his lip and scratching at a spot on the table. “Look, I told you it was nothing, and it was a long time ago—before Jake met Kelan.” “It’s not that,” Aaron said, looking up to meet Cary’s gaze. “Then what is it?” “How could you even be with Jake? I don’t understand. When you find your mate, you never want anyone else. Well, maybe if your mate died, but if Gill wasn’t dead then how could you do it? Would you…want to be with someone else if you were with me?” Confusion clouded Aaron’s eyes. The wolf looked practically heartbroken. Cary knew he had to explain everything, even though he wasn’t certain he fully understood it all himself. He certainly could never begin to understand Gill’s motives. “God, this is going to sound crazy, but…I don’t think Gill was really my mate.” “Huh?” “Gill and I were together for two years, I was only eighteen when we met and I was naïve. I didn’t know shit, even though at the time I thought I knew it all.” “Okay.” “Well, when I first met Gill, I was attracted to him instantly. He had a power to him that just drew me in. I guess I was in awe of him. Gill told me we were mates, and I suppose because I had nothing to compare it to and because I’d never spoken to anyone about what it www.total-e-bound.com

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feels like when you find your mate, I believed him. I know that sounds incredible but it’s the truth. I guess I mistook attraction and lust for the mating bond, and when Gill said we were mates, I had no reason to question him about it. It’s not something people normally lie about, you know?” “Wow, I can’t believe he would lie about something as important as that. It’s hard to imagine anyone would. Sounds like the guy was completely crazy.” Cary nodded. “He was. Unfortunately, I didn’t know that at the time and I fell in love with him. By the time he showed his true colours, it was too late—he had me. Hook, line and sinker. And then, of course, the abuse started, and I kept hoping he’d change, kept wondering how he could do that to his mate—but now I know. It’s because we were never mates to begin with. I honestly thought we were, Aaron, I really did, but…when I met you, I just knew. The things I felt for you…feel for you”—Cary corrected—“I never experienced with Gill.”

Aaron could now understand why Cary had run from him when they had met. After everything he’d been through, it was natural to be afraid of being hurt again. Aaron’s aggressive, dominant behaviour must have terrified Cary and he must have been confused over what he was feeling. Aaron reached across the table and covered Cary’s hand with his own. The touch was meant to comfort and soothe, but Aaron couldn’t help the effect it had on his body when Cary’s breath hitched and the scent of arousal filled his nose. “I know you have absolutely no reason to trust or believe me. But I would never hurt you. The thought sickens me. If you give me a chance to prove myself, I’ll do everything in my power to ensure you never get hurt again.” Aaron waited with bated breath. Cary swallowed audibly and a tear trickled down the side of his face. “I don’t know why you’d want me,” he choked out. “I’m a mess.” Aaron shook his head fervently. “No. You’re perfect and I’ll wait as long as I have to until you realise that I’m perfect for you, too.”

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When Cary looked into Aaron’s eyes, he saw nothing but truth shining back at him. He certainly hoped Aaron was telling the truth because in his heart he knew he was going to take their relationship a step further. Aaron was his mate…and he wanted him. If Cary was ever going to be truly happy, he had to face up to what had happened to him. He had to learn to trust again. If he didn’t, he feared his life would be empty and meaningless—and very, very lonely. When he’d told Aaron what Gill had done to him, all the colour had drained from the wolf’s face and he’d looked like he was going to throw up. He’d seemed genuinely upset about what Cary had gone through. You couldn’t fake that kind of reaction, could you? Either Aaron was genuine or he was a very good actor. Cary hoped with all his heart for the former. Yes, Gill had lied, but Cary had never felt Gill’s emotions like he could with Aaron. What was it Kelan had said? “It was like finding a part of myself that I never knew was missing.” That was exactly how Cary felt now. And if Aaron was truly his mate, then he would never do the things Gill had done. Besides, Aaron wasn’t Gill. Cary smiled at his mate and the smile he got in return was brilliant. It lit up Aaron’s entire face and made Cary’s dick go from semi-erect to uncomfortably hard in seconds. He lifted himself out of the chair and walked around the table until he stood in front of his mate. Aaron raised a questioning brow at him but Cary ignored it and straddled Aaron’s lap. Aaron gasped. “What are you doing?” Cary smiled seductively and leant forwards until his mouth was almost touching Aaron’s. “Quit thinking so much,” he repeated Aaron’s earlier words and pressed their lips together gently. His body melted when their lips connected. Aaron groaned and opened his mouth, returning the kiss with fervour. Cary took full advantage and slipped his tongue into his mate’s open mouth. Aaron tasted like a combination of coffee and toothpaste, but it was his own underlying uniqueness that Cary couldn’t get enough of. He pressed his body closer and deepened the kiss, wanting to taste more. Aaron’s hands glided up Cary’s back and over his shoulders until they reached the back of his neck. He slid them higher and entwined his fingers in Cary’s hair. The touch sent shivers of excitement through Cary, and he bucked his body, grinding his hard cock against Aaron’s equally hard erection. www.total-e-bound.com

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Aaron gasped and pulled back from the kiss, fanning his warm, sweet breath over Cary’s face. When Cary opened his eyes to look at his mate, he saw that Aaron’s eyes had shifted. The sight made him harder—if that were possible—and even more desperate for release. He struggled to rein in his cat. Cary was so excited, he lost all rational thought. He pulled at the collar of Aaron’s shirt and nuzzled against his neck. He snaked his tongue out and delicately trailed it over every inch of hot flesh he encountered. Aaron shivered beneath him. When he reached Aaron’s earlobe, he took it into his mouth and bit down gently. Aaron cried out and the sound had Cary nearly shooting in his briefs. He could feel Aaron’s pulse beneath his tongue, hear the increased tempo of his heart. He couldn’t take any more. “I want you to fuck me,” he whispered into Aaron’s ear. “Holy crap!” Aaron blurted. Cary leant back so that he could look at Aaron’s face. He expected to see excitement and desire. He wanted to see the same lust and need Aaron had displayed yesterday in the barn and earlier in the corral. But the emotions that shone in Aaron’s eyes were just the opposite and Cary froze, afraid to move the smallest of muscles in case he’d read the signals wrong. Aaron cleared his throat and averted his gaze. When he turned back, his eyes had shifted to their human form. Longing and enthusiasm had disappeared, to be replaced by hesitancy and doubt. “What’s wrong?” Cary managed to ask. “I thought you’d want that.” “I do…of course I do, but I’ve never done it before,” Aaron replied quietly. “Never?” Aaron shook his head. “I made out with a couple of guys in college a while back, but that’s about it. That’s the extent of my practice, I’m afraid. You’ve got lots of experience. What if I don’t match up?” The insecurity Aaron was displaying made Cary want him even more. Aaron was a tall, powerful alpha wolf and on their previous meeting he had exuded confidence. But the fact that he was so sensitive now and not in the least bit arrogant made him more desirable to Cary, not less. Everything about Aaron was a turn-on to Cary…including his inexperience. “Okay, for starters I haven’t got lots of experience. Some, sure, but that don’t count for shit. And for what it’s worth, none of my encounters were all that great so you don’t exactly www.total-e-bound.com

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have a lot to match up to. And I happen to like that I would be your first. It makes me feel…I don’t know…special.” “What about Gill? You thought he was your mate. You must have had some good times with him.” Even though Aaron had asked the question, the look in his eyes told Cary he didn’t want to hear the answer. And in all honesty Cary didn’t want to talk about it, either, but maybe it would be better if they got this conversation out of the way. “Gill was kinda rough with me during sex. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not saying I don’t like it that way sometimes, but Gill only ever thought of himself. You know?” When Aaron next looked up, there were tears in his eyes. “I wish you’d never had to go through any of that with him. I wish you’d met me first.” Cary swallowed hard. He wished so too, but what did it matter? He couldn’t change what had happened. He could only move forwards, concentrate on the future. “All that is in the past and, from now on, that’s where it’s going to stay, okay?” Aaron hesitated at first but then nodded his agreement. “Okay.” Cary was about to lean forwards and kiss Aaron again when there was a knock on the bunkhouse door. He frowned, fully intent on ignoring the caller, but when a second knock came—louder than the first—he grudgingly got up from Aaron’s lap. “Who do you think that could be?” Aaron checked his watch. “Everyone on the ranch is busy working.” “I don’t know but whoever it is has lousy timing.” Cary left Aaron in the kitchen and went to answer the door. He was just about to pull it open when someone pounded on it again, rattling the old, rusty hinges. The hammering was so loud and forceful, it made Cary jump. He put his hand to his heart and tried to steady his breathing. “Damn. Hold your horses, I’m coming!” Well, not yet he wasn’t…but he planned to, real soon. He swung open the door, surprised to see Gregory Hale standing on the porch. “I thought we were going to meet later?” Cary crossed his arms and threw Gregory a sidewards glance. “Why the change of plan?”

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Gregory sighed and scrubbed his hand over his face. “Something’s come up I need to attend to. I’ll be leaving town this afternoon, and I need to speak to you before I go. Can I come in?” Cary glanced over his shoulder in the direction of the kitchen. If he could get this over and done with quickly, he and Aaron could pick up where they left off before he went out to ride fence with Nate. He nodded his head. “Sure.” He pulled the door wider and stepped aside to allow Gregory entrance. Once inside, Gregory began to pace the living room floor. “Please take a seat, before you wear a hole in the rug.” Cary sat down on the sofa and motioned towards the armchair opposite. Gregory raised an amused eyebrow and sat. “You always so direct?” “Best way to be, I’ve found.” Cary’s eyes flickered to the kitchen door then came back to rest on Gregory. The man nodded. “I find it refreshing, actually. You seem to be coping with what happened to you just fine. It can’t have been easy for you.” “It wasn’t,” Cary admitted. “I don’t know if I’ll ever fully recover from what Gill did to me, you know? But I’d come to terms with not being with Gill months before he died. I had to for my own sanity. If I’d have stayed with him, I’d probably be the one dead now.” “I realise that, but Gill didn’t just die, did he? He was killed…by Kelan—a wolf. How do you feel about that?” Cary shrugged. “I have no ill feelings towards Kelan, quite the opposite in fact. I owe Kelan my life and a lot more besides. He’s been like a father to me. More of a father than my old man was anyway. He’s helped me so much over the last six months, I don’t know how to repay him. He took me in, gave me a job, a home. He didn’t have to do any of that but he did. He’s a good man and he’s become a friend.” “So you’re happy?” Gregory asked, doubt written all over his face. “Living here…with wolves?” Cary thought about the question. The wolves who lived and worked on the ranch were some of the finest people he’d ever met. But was he truly happy? Certainly more so than he’d been with Gill—maybe more than he’d ever been. www.total-e-bound.com

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“I never would have believed it,” Cary said at last. “If I hadn’t experienced it firsthand I probably still wouldn’t believe it, but the wolves here have been so welcoming and kind to me. They treat me like I belong.” Cary had intended to tell Gregory about Aaron and his discovery about Gill, but he held his tongue. It would be best to see where things led between him and Aaron before he made any such announcements. Gregory raised his eyebrows, seemingly surprised by Cary’s praise of the wolves. “Okay. When I give my report to the council, I’ll tell them I don’t think they have anything to worry about where you’re concerned. But there’s something else I need to talk to you about.” Cary nodded. “Go on.” “It’s about what I saw earlier, between you and the wolf.” “What about it?” “It was inappropriate.” Cary started to shake his head. The disapproving tone in Gregory’s voice made Cary sorry he hadn’t mentioned their mating. His relationship with Aaron might have nothing to do with the council but after years of Gill’s tyranny, when someone told him he shouldn’t do something, it made him all the more determined. “Aaron’s my m…” “His friend,” Aaron interjected. He strode into the room and sat down on the sofa next to Cary. “Everything okay?” Cary’s eyes shot to Aaron’s. He frowned. What the hell? Was Aaron embarrassed to tell people he was mated to Cary? Well, if that was how this was going to be— “As Cary’s friend, aren’t you at all concerned about his safety?” “Of course. You don’t have anything to worry about. I’d never hurt Cary.” “See that you don’t. You know it wouldn’t be good for Cary to get personally involved with a wolf…on many levels.” Aaron sat up straighter. “Do you have something against wolves?” Gregory shrugged. “You’re not known for your gentleness. Most of the wolves I’ve come into contact with have been overly aggressive and unpredictable.” “Oh, and cats are perfect? Correct me if I’m wrong but wasn’t it a cat shifter that hurt Cary before—nearly killed him, in fact?” Gregory’s eyes darkened and he let out a low hiss. “That was an exceptional case, highly unusual. Wolves are coarse, unrefined creatures by nature.” www.total-e-bound.com

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“You sure you met one before? Because you’re not describing any wolves I know.” “You are young,” Gregory scoffed. “Naïve. Cary needs—” Cary had heard enough. “Will you both just shut the hell up? I am in the room, you know. And what is this anyway—some sort of pissing contest? If you’ll just give me a moment, I’ll fetch a ruler so you can measure your dicks.” Aaron’s jaw fell open but Gregory merely chuckled. “On that note, I’d better be going.” Gregory got up from the sofa and walked to the door. Before he left, he bent over and conspiratorially whispered in Cary’s ear. “Be careful. There will be other council members checking up on you from time to time and you stink of wolf. The next council member might not be as understanding as me. You have my card, so call me if you need anything.” Gregory shot one last glance at Aaron then let himself out. Cary watched him go, openmouthed. What the hell difference did it make what or who he smelt of? It wasn’t the council’s business who Cary was seeing. Cary stiffened when Aaron tried to pull him into his arms. He was majorly pissed off at Aaron. “What’s wrong?” Aaron scrunched his eyebrows together in confusion. “What’s wrong?” Cary repeated. “Are you ashamed of me?” Aaron blinked and cocked his head to the side. “Huh?” “Why wouldn’t you let me tell Gregory you’re my mate?” “I’m not ashamed of you.” Aaron took Cary’s face in his hand and made him meet his gaze. “Nothing could be further from the truth. I think you’re incredible.” “Then why?” “The council have strict rules against cross-species mating. My father told me about it last night. That’s why Gregory just warned you off me, and why my father was so upset yesterday when he discovered we were mates. I was praying you wouldn’t say anything to Gregory. We could get in a lot of trouble if the council find out about our mating.” Cary couldn’t believe what he was hearing. His shoulders slumped and he let out a long breath. He didn’t need this added drama on top of everything else. “You’re joking, right?” Aaron shook his head. “I’m sorry.” www.total-e-bound.com

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“But how can we hide it? We can’t keep something like this a secret.” “I’m afraid we have to. I don’t know what they’ll do if they find out, but trust me, it wouldn’t be good.”

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Chapter Four

“Where is Cary now?” Kelan frowned and looked out of the window into the yard. “He’s out riding fence with Nate. I thought you’d want to know the council has been here,” Aaron replied. Kelan nodded. “I wouldn’t worry about it. Now that one of their representatives has seen Cary, we most likely won’t hear from them again for some time. But we need to figure out what to do in the event they do come back.” “Maybe it would be best to be open about everything. What’s the worst that could happen?” Kelan’s eyes darkened. “You don’t want to know. Let me make some enquiries. I know some wolves on the council. The law is antiquated—it was only set up to prevent mating between men and women. The children that were born from those pairings were most often deformed in some way. But that obviously wouldn’t apply to a bonding between two men. I’ll get them to look into it. We’ll see what they come back with.” “Thanks, Kelan, I appreciate it. I guess I’d better pack up my stuff to move into the bunkhouse.” Aaron turned to leave. He was almost out of the door before Kelan addressed him. “So I take it you and Cary have sorted everything out?” Aaron beamed at Kelan. “Yeah, we’re good now. I think Cary is starting to believe things could work out between us.” “I’m happy for you both. Cary deserves someone good in his life after everything he went through with Gill. Treat him well.” Aaron wasn’t surprised by Kelan’s warning. He was glad that Cary had someone looking out for him. “I intend to.” If only Aaron’s father would be as accepting as Kelan. Stefan hadn’t been at all pleased about his mating with Cary. Aaron knew it was because Stefan was worried about him, but www.total-e-bound.com

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he hoped his father could get over his anxiety and see how good they could be for one another. “Do you know where Dad is?” “Yep, he’s gone into town to run errands with Cody. I’m not expecting them back until early afternoon.” Aaron thanked Kelan again and left to pack. Telling his father would just have to wait. When he was done collecting his belongings, he carried everything over to the bunkhouse. He didn’t like Cary being out somewhere on the property where he couldn’t keep an eye on him, but he supposed it was something he’d have to get used to. He couldn’t spend every minute of every day with Cary. It actually surprised him that he wanted to. He couldn’t believe how protective he felt of his mate and they’d only just got together. Aaron knew he needed to be careful, because he didn’t want to be that man—the jealous and over-protective boyfriend that smothered his partner. Cary had already had one man like that. Aaron needed to give Cary room to breathe. If he wanted Cary to see how perfect they were for one another, he needed to be everything that Gill wasn’t. Everything that he himself detested in a man. Aaron transferred his belongings to one of the spare rooms. He would have preferred to stay in Cary’s room but he didn’t want to pressure his mate. Cary had been through a lot and it would take a while for him to trust again. That was fine with Aaron—he had all the time in the world, and he’d happily spend it proving himself to his mate. When he was done, Aaron began working on his chores around the ranch. Kelan had given him a long list of things to do, but Aaron wasn’t afraid of hard work, and by throwing himself into the job, it helped keep his mind off his worries over Cary. He couldn’t wait to see his mate again. Just being in Cary’s presence put a smile on his face and made him happier than he could remember being. Aaron got so engrossed in his work, he lost track of time. When he next checked his watch, it was past four and he realised he’d missed lunch. His stomach growled loudly, proving just how hungry he was, so he put away the tools he’d been using and made his way back to the bunkhouse. As he crossed the yard, he saw his father and Kelan talking with two sour-faced, burly men. Stefan’s features were stoic but Kelan looked pissed off. As he got nearer, Aaron www.total-e-bound.com

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scented the air. One of the men was human but the other was a shifter—some type of cat if Aaron’s senses were correct. “You have no right,” Kelan said. “This is my land and it’s my business what goes on here. I am more than capable of dealing with some local thugs should they turn up here.” “We have every right,” the human argued. “This is a federal matter and until these men have been caught, we will be keeping a close eye on everyone here in town. That includes the people who live and work on your ranch.” “Everything okay?” Aaron asked, joining the small group. Kelan nodded. “There’s been some trouble. A shifter has been killed a few towns over from here.” “What does that have to do with us?” “There appears to be a group, working together, but forensics has only been able to identify one of the men involved. It’s the same man responsible for killing a couple of shifters over in Louisiana. He’s been in trouble before and it seems he’s from around here. Trouble is, this guy is human, but the men he’s targeting are all shifters. We’re not sure how he knows about us or how he identifies us, but until he’s caught, we need to be vigilant. I don’t want anyone out working the land alone.” Aaron stomach lurched. He had a bad feeling about this. “Where’s Cary?” “He’s in the bunkhouse,” Kelan replied. “I’ve told him he’s not to go out alone until these men have been caught.” Breathing a sigh of relief, Aaron’s eyes flickered to the bunkhouse but the door was shut and the curtains closed. “The same applies to you,” Kelan continued. “Understand?” Aaron nodded. “I’ll be careful.” The cat shifter scented the air between them and his eyes widened. “Who are you?” “Aaron is my nephew,” Kelan said. “He works here on the ranch.” The cat shifter eyed Aaron suspiciously. Shit. Could he smell Cary’s scent on him? “We’ll be around town until midnight, and then Gregory and one of our other agents will take over,” the human said. Aaron groaned inwardly. Great. Gregory was going to be sticking around? The man was already suspicious about his relationship with Cary. www.total-e-bound.com

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“Fine,” Kelan said. “But this is a working ranch. Try not to get in anyone’s way.” The men nodded their agreement then walked off. When they were out of hearing distance, Stefan turned to Aaron and frowned. “I think it would be best if you stayed in the house with us for the time being,” he said. “The agency can’t find out about you and Cary.” Aaron shook his head. “That’s not going to happen. Cary is my mate and I’m not letting him out of my sight until these men have been caught.” “I think it’s a good idea for Aaron to stay in the bunkhouse,” Kelan agreed. “Cary will feel safer with his mate there, and I think it will be good for Aaron, too. But…you can’t claim him, Aaron. Not yet. Your scents will combine and then there’ll be no way to hide your mating bond from the council.” Aaron nodded his agreement. “Okay.” If it meant keeping his mate safe, Aaron would gladly refrain from claiming Cary. “It’s settled then.” Aaron turned to leave. “There’s one other thing,” Kelan said. “The council said that both of the shifters who were killed had something in common.” “What was it?” Kelan frowned and looked at Stefan before he divulged anything further, which made Aaron’s hackles rise. He clenched his hands into fists at his side. “I’m a grown man, Kelan. If you’ve got something to say, say it. You don’t need my father’s permission to tell me something.” Kelan sighed. “Fair enough. Both men that were killed were gay. The council doesn’t yet know if that’s a coincidence or not, but until we know anything further, we need to be extra cautious.” When Aaron turned to look at his father, Stefan didn’t look at all happy. Aaron wasn’t sure if it was because Kelan had passed along the information to him or because gay shifters were being targeted in the area, but there wasn’t a lot Aaron could say to ease his mind. He put his hand on his father’s shoulder and squeezed. “It’s going to be all right, Dad, you’ll see. They wouldn’t be stupid enough to come here, even if they knew about us. There are too many of us here.” Stefan nodded but his eyes were filled with worry. “Just promise me you’ll be careful.” www.total-e-bound.com

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“I will.”

**** Cary stopped pacing his room and sat down heavily on the bed. He jumped when the front door to the bunkhouse slammed shut. Christ, he was a nervous wreck. When heavy footsteps sounded down the hall, Cary sprang up and ran to the window in a panic. He was about to climb out when Aaron’s spicy, enticing aroma reached his nose through the closed bedroom door. Immediately his cock took notice and Cary groaned. It was impossible to be in the same building with Aaron without his dick reacting. He let out a long breath and crossed the room, pulling open the door at the same moment Aaron lifted his hand to knock. “Hey.” “Did you hear?” Cary asked. Aaron nodded his head. “Yeah, but don’t worry. The council will catch the men responsible, plus they have no reason to come anywhere near here.” “Other than the fact that we’re shifters, you mean—gay shifters—and they’re targeting gay shifters.” “We don’t know that for certain. It could just be a coincidence, and anyway, there are a lot of shifters living in this town. Even if they do somehow know about us, they wouldn’t dare turn up here. There are too many of us living here, including three alpha wolves. You just have to promise me you won’t go anywhere alone.” “I promise.” Aaron held out his arms and Cary hesitated for only a brief moment before stepping into the embrace. He sighed when Aaron’s arms enveloped him and the wolf kissed the top of his head. Cary nuzzled against Aaron, rubbing his cheek into Aaron’s neck. His chest rumbled contentedly when his mate began to rub soothing circles over his back. The strokes halted abruptly. “Are you…purring?” Cary stiffened in Aaron’s arms and the rumbling in his chest stopped. “Uh, yes?” He was a cat shifter. He purred. It was a natural instinct, one he couldn’t control. Cary held his breath and waited. He hoped Aaron wouldn’t be put off by the sound. It was an instinctual www.total-e-bound.com

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thing he did when he was content. As soon as the thought occurred to him, Cary was astounded. That was the second time he’d purred that day. Before that, it must have been months…no, make that years. And he couldn’t remember ever purring when he was with Gill. “Wow,” Aaron said at last. His eyes were wide with wonder. “That’s hot!” Cary giggled, all of the tension leaving his body with a slow exhale of breath. He pressed closer to his mate. “Really, you think so?” “Hell yeah. Do it again?” Cary looked up at Aaron’s face and smiled shyly. The low rumble returned. Even though it had been a long time since he’d purred, the action felt as natural to him as breathing. Aaron’s eyes were filled with lust, confirming just how hot he found the sound. Cary groaned when he felt his mate’s cock harden and press against his stomach. He pulled Aaron into the room then slammed the door shut behind him. “Kiss me?” Aaron growled, spun Cary around and pressed him against the door. Cary gasped but the sound was smothered by Aaron’s mouth covering his own. If Cary’s dick wasn’t fully hard before, it was now. Aaron’s kiss was needy, desperate. Cary sank into the kiss and ground his erection against Aaron’s thigh. Aaron groaned, pushing the sound and his tongue into Cary’s mouth at the same time. It set Cary on fire. He took everything Aaron gave but he wanted more. “Please…” He reached down and palmed Aaron’s dick through his jeans, squeezing the hard length. “I want this.” Cary still wasn’t completely sure if they were ready for this level of intimacy—they’d only known each other a couple of days—but his instincts were crying out to take everything Aaron had to give him. And it had been a hell of a long time since he’d had sex…too long. The best thing was that this wouldn’t be a casual hook-up with some random guy in a bar. This would be different…better. This would be with his mate—his true mate. Little things Aaron did like rake his fingers through Cary’s hair as they kissed made Cary ache with need. Their bodies fitted together like pieces of a jigsaw puzzle. Aaron held Cary as though he was something precious and looked at him as though he was admiring a www.total-e-bound.com

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beautiful piece of fine art. Cary had never felt so wanted. It was all those little things that made Cary decide that they would be good together, that they were ready for this. Aaron moaned and thrust against Cary’s hand. He trailed featherlight kisses down Cary’s throat, licking and tasting every inch of flesh he encountered. Cary pressed his palm against Aaron’s dick again then began to work open the button of his mate’s jeans. When he got the zipper down, he realised Aaron wasn’t wearing any briefs and the knowledge excited him, making him even harder than before. Aaron’s erection sprang free, the tip already leaking pre-cum. Cary licked his lips. He wanted to taste. When he looked at Aaron’s face again, the wolf looked as though he was right on the edge. His cheeks were flushed and his lips were swollen from their kisses. Without a word, Cary sank to his knees, grabbed the base of Aaron’s cock and impaled his mouth on it, taking it down to the hilt. Cary let out a low, rugged moan as the tip nudged the back of his throat and he swallowed. This was what he wanted, more than anything. “Oh fuck!” Aaron fell forwards and pressed his hands on the door in front of him, letting it support his weight. His sudden movement pushed his dick further into Cary’s throat. “Feels so good…I never…I didn’t—Oh fuck.” Cary grinned around the cock in his mouth, pleased he was able to solicit such a strong reaction from his mate. He liked that he was the first person to do this to Aaron. It occurred to him he would be Aaron’s first for everything they did together. He only hoped he would be the last, too. He couldn’t bear the thought of Aaron being with anyone else. He pulled back and started to suck in earnest although he didn’t want Aaron to get off. He was simply wetting Aaron’s dick—slicking it up, preparing him. There was only one place Cary wanted Aaron to come and it wasn’t in his mouth. Aaron’s dick grew taut. It jerked in his mouth. As he stroked and caressed his mate’s sac, he felt it tighten in his hands. When Aaron’s legs started to shake, Cary abruptly pulled off. “Get on the bed,” Cary ordered. “And get naked.” Cary felt odd giving orders—he wasn’t a dominant person by nature—but as the most experienced of the two, he knew someone had to take the lead…and at the moment it didn’t look like that person would be Aaron. www.total-e-bound.com

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“Huh?” Aaron looked down with a dazed expression. “What?” Cary smiled. He got up, took hold of Aaron’s hand and led him to the bed. He pushed down Aaron’s jeans then pulled up his shirt with the intention of taking it off. He didn’t get that far. When Aaron’s pert, pink nipples came into view, Cary couldn’t resist leaning forwards and capturing one in his mouth. He rolled his tongue around the erect nipple and gripped it gently with his teeth. Aaron cried out and fisted his hands in Cary’s hair. He arched his body towards Cary’s mouth and pressed his palm to the back of Cary’s head, holding it in place. The action drove Cary wild. There was nothing he liked better than having his head held while he sucked and licked. It was a good thing Aaron hadn’t held his head while he blew him or Cary would have creamed, he was sure of it. He only allowed himself to play with Aaron’s nipples for a few moments. As much as Cary was enjoying himself, he was becoming impatient. He wanted more. “Off!” Cary tugged Aaron’s shirt until his mate lifted his arms, pulled it over his head and tossed it on the floor. Aaron watched Cary remove his clothing for a few moments, seemingly entranced. Cary stopped what he was doing and cocked an eyebrow in query. Aaron seemed to realise what was required of him. He took off his boots then slid his socks and jeans down his legs, discarding them on the floor. When Aaron was fully naked, Cary sucked in a sharp breath at the sight of his mate standing before him Aaron was simply stunning. His body was long and lean with just the right amount of muscle. He had a thin line of hair below his navel that led down to his very impressive cock. Cary licked his lips. He wished he had more time to admire his mate’s body but he was too anxious. His dick was becoming painful, aching with need. He pushed on Aaron’s chest until his mate fell backwards onto the bed. He liked Aaron spread out before him—he could get used to it. He paused, waiting for the sense of dread to fill him at the thought of a mate and a life shared together. But surprisingly it never came, and that filled him with hope for the future. Cary climbed on the bed and straddled Aaron’s legs. Aaron was looking at him with wonder in his eyes that made Cary feel sexy and all powerful. He held Aaron’s gaze as he www.total-e-bound.com

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lowered his head and traced his tongue up Aaron’s impressive erection. Aaron groaned and grabbed the sheets, his head rolling back and forth on the pillow. “Feel good?” Cary asked. Aaron nodded but he didn’t answer. He didn’t need to. Cary could tell from the shudders that racked his mate’s body how good he was feeling. He straddled Aaron’s chest in order to reach into the nightstand drawer to grab a bottle of lube. He had only ever used it to slick himself up while he jacked off, never imagining he would need it for anything else. How wrong he had been. The top flipped open with a loud pop and Aaron jerked his head up, staring at the bottle, wide-eyed. “What are you doing?” Aaron’s breathing was shallow and his chest was rising and falling rapidly. Cary squirted some of the lube on his fingers and smoothed it over Aaron’s dick. “Shh…” He leant forwards and pressed their lips together, letting his mouth linger for a moment while he slicked up Aaron’s length. “I’m gonna make you feel good.” Aaron groaned and Cary felt his dick twitch against his ass. When he pulled back, he squirted more lube onto his fingers. He winked at Aaron, reached behind himself and slipped his index finger into his ass to prepare himself for Aaron’s dick. Cary moaned when he felt the delicious sting of being stretched. Aaron’s mouth fell open as he watched Cary’s hand move in and out. “Oh God, oh God.” Cary’s breath hitched when he inserted another finger then scissored them. Aaron gasped and grabbed hold of Cary’s hips. When Cary looked down, he saw that Aaron’s eyes and teeth had shifted. His mate’s lack of control over his wolf delighted Cary and made him move the fingers in his ass faster. He knew he should add another so that he was stretched enough to take Aaron’s wide girth but he simply couldn’t wait a second longer. Aaron squeezed his eyes shut as he dug his fingers into Cary’s hips. His cock was leaking onto his stomach, making Cary ache to lean forwards again and take every drop into his mouth. But there wasn’t time, they were both too close. Besides, they would have other opportunities, of that Cary was certain. Now that he’d tasted Aaron, he knew he’d want to do so again and again. He removed his fingers then shuffled forwards until he lined up above Aaron’s cock. www.total-e-bound.com

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“I’m going to ride you now.” Cary took hold of Aaron’s dick and placed it at his hole before pushing down gently. “Gonna fuck you until you can’t take anymore and you fill my ass with your load.” When Aaron next opened his eyes, Cary watched as his mate shed his innocence like falling leaves from the small persimmons that grew down by the river. Aaron’s eyes took on a new quality Cary hadn’t seen in them before. They contained a burning desire Cary was only too happy to fulfil. He gripped Aaron’s dick and lowered himself. “Cary, I don’t… Argh!” Cary held his breath through the initial bite of pain. He waited a few seconds for his body to adjust to the sensation of Aaron stretching him. Then he lifted himself and sank back down. At the same time, Aaron grabbed hold of Cary’s hips and thrust up. Cary wasn’t sure which of them cried out the loudest, not that it mattered. There was no finesse to their movements and Cary was barely aware of the pleasure in his own body. He was too intent on making this perfect for his mate. He leant forwards and braced himself on Aaron’s chest then rode Aaron’s dick hard and fast. He could feel Aaron’s cock contract in his ass and knew his mate was close. “Cary, gonna come,” Aaron said desperately. “Can’t hold it.” He reached up and took hold of Cary’s cock. Aaron gripped it in his fist and slid his hand down the length. “I want you to come too.” That was all Cary needed to hear. No one had ever been concerned about his pleasure before and it caused his orgasm to crash through his body with a fierce intensity. He threw his head back and shouted out his release. Midway through his climax, he felt Aaron’s dick constricting and convulsing inside him as his ass was flooded with burst after burst of warm, wet heat. Collapsing forwards, Cary nuzzled his face into Aaron’s neck. The sudden movement caused Aaron’s dick to slip free from his ass. Cary normally had experience in controlling his cat—he was good at it—but instinct took over as his incisors tore from his gums. He leaned up on his elbows then plunged his teeth into Aaron’s neck, drawing out his mate’s blood— claiming him. He was dimly aware of their scents combining when he felt Aaron push at his shoulders, trying to dislodge him. “Cary, no!” www.total-e-bound.com

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**** Aaron grunted and rolled over. Was someone calling his name? He covered himself with the sheet then blindly reached for his mate to try and pull him back into his chest. His hands came back empty. Aaron snapped his eyes open, suddenly wide awake. “Cary?” He used his wolf senses to try to locate his mate but he couldn’t detect Cary’s scent in any of the rooms in the bunkhouse. Panicked, he jumped out of bed and reached for his jeans. He pulled them on quickly and had just got them buttoned up when he heard a loud bang on the bunkhouse door. Aaron padded out to the hall, shirtless and barefoot. Nate was coming out of his room at the same time. The man looked pissed off but that seemed to be an everyday expression on the gruff wolf’s face. “Who in God’s name is knocking at this hour?” Nate strode past Aaron and headed for the door. He didn’t mention the fact that Aaron had come from Cary’s bedroom but Aaron knew the wolf had noticed—Nate’s eyes had widened ever so slightly when he had first seen him. He could probably smell their mating bond too, Aaron realised when he inhaled. Cary’s scent was strong on him, infused with his own. Nate threw open the door and quite literally growled. “Kelan?” Kelan nodded. “Sorry if I woke you, Nate. I need to speak to Aaron. It’s important.” Nate nodded and opened the door wider. Without a word, he turned and walked back to his room, leaving Aaron and Kelan alone. “What is it? What’s wrong?” Fear froze Aaron in place when he took in the tight set of Kelan’s lips. Kelan rubbed the back of his neck and frowned before speaking. “I just got a call from my beta, Pete—he works at a bar in town. Cary’s there. He’s drunk, Aaron. We’d better go get him.” Aaron’s eyes widened. Cary had promised him he wouldn’t go anywhere alone. It was too dangerous right now. Why would he break his promise? Didn’t he realise the danger he www.total-e-bound.com

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was putting himself in? Aaron ran back to Cary’s room to get dressed. “Give me two minutes,” he called over his shoulder. Cary was drunk? Aaron hadn’t figured his mate for the drinking type. He quickly pulled on his boots and the rest of his clothes. Two minutes later, he and Kelan were crossing the yard to Kelan’s truck. Aaron could see Kelan leaning closer to him and sniffing in his peripheral vision. “I thought you agreed not to claim Cary. You know how dangerous that is with the council members hanging around.” Aaron frowned. Jesus, what did everyone take him for, a brainless idiot? “I didn’t. Cary claimed me. I couldn’t stop him.” “Sorry. Didn’t mean to give you shit. I just don’t want to see either of you get hurt. We don’t know what will happen should the council find out about you, and I think it’s best we keep it that way.” “It’s okay.” Aaron shrugged. “I understand. We’ll just have to stay out of their way for the time being. Does Cary…uh, does he drink a lot?” Kelan shook his head. “Never. Did you guys have a fight?” “No. I don’t understand the problem. Everything was going great. We had sex. I thought we were good when I fell asleep but maybe it was too soon for him after all.” “Go easy on him. Cary’s been through a lot in the last couple of years.” Aaron nodded. “I know.” “Did he tell you about everything that happened to him back in New York?” “Yeah. It really sounds like Gill was a piece of work.” “And then some.” “Cary said you killed him.” “Yeah. I’m not proud of myself for that. Never killed another man before but if I hadn’t stopped him, he would have killed Jake and Cary.” The thought alone sent cold shivers running through Aaron’s body. “Thank you for saving him.” Aaron’s stomach churned the closer they got to Kelan’s truck. Anything could happen to Cary out in town alone. Why would Cary be so stupid? Aaron took a deep breath and tried to calm his nerves. Please let him be okay. He couldn’t stand it if something were to www.total-e-bound.com

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happen to his mate. Aaron stopped and put his hand on Kelan’s shoulder. “I’d like to do this alone if that’s okay.” Kelan’s eyes narrowed. He studied Aaron for a moment then nodded. “Of course. The keys are in the truck.”

**** “Give me another.” Cary lifted his glass and drained the contents before slamming the glass down on the bar. The bartender picked up the whisky bottle then paused. “You sure about that? I think maybe you’ve had enough already.” Cary frowned. Why were all wolves so goddamn stubborn? “I said I’d like another drink.” The wolf shrugged and poured a generous helping of Scotch into his glass. Cary lifted the drink and poured half of it down his throat. It still burned but not as much as the first had. It didn’t taste as bad, either. But then, the first drink had been hours ago. He’d had several since. Howls of laughter caught Cary’s attention. He turned his head to watch a group of men at the other side of the bar. Four of them sat in a booth near the restroom. Three of them were human and the fourth was a wolf. They were raising a ruckus, as Kelan would say, and growing rowdier with every beer they consumed. A couple of times Cary noticed them look in his direction and snicker, leaning in to whisper conspiratorially together. He hadn’t paid them much attention before but the more alcohol got into their system, the more they looked in his direction. The looks they kept shooting his way were anything but friendly. Cary knew he should go back to the ranch but he wasn’t ready to face Aaron. He would never forget the look of horror on his mate’s face when he had claimed him. He hadn’t intended to claim Aaron, especially while the council was hanging around, but he hadn’t been able to help himself. His cat’s instincts had taken over and he hadn’t had time to think about the consequences. Now he and Aaron were bonded together for life. There was no getting out of it for either of them. Gill had bitten Cary once when they’d had sex, then he’d told him they were www.total-e-bound.com

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bonded, and Cary had believed him, even though he’d never felt the connection, never really understood what he was supposed to feel. He did now. He could feel Aaron inside, was aware of him in a way that terrified him as much as it pleased him. Cary wanted to be happy about their bond, and part of him was, but the look on Aaron’s face had chilled him to the bone. Aaron had seemed positively horrified at what Cary had done. They hadn’t spoken about it after. Aaron had fallen asleep and Cary had been left lying there staring at the ceiling, worrying about what he’d done. Logically, he knew Aaron’s concerns. He shouldn’t take it so personally but that was easier said than done. He had tried not to let Aaron’s reaction upset him, but it had. It had felt like a personal slight. Cary had promised Aaron he wouldn’t go anywhere alone and hated to break his promise but he’d had to get out of the bunkhouse. He needed time alone to think. Time away from Aaron. Everything was happening so fast he didn’t know which way was up. Were things happening too fast? Cary jumped when a large hand landed on his shoulder. When he turned, he came face to face with the wolf from the group of men in the corner. “Don’t I know you from somewhere?” the wolf asked. Cary shook his head. “Don’t think so.” “Yeah, I know who you are.” The wolf leaned in closer and the stench of his breath nearly knocked Cary off his stool. “I’ve seen you in town, with Kelan. You work for him, dontcha?” Cary nodded. “Yes, sir.” “Thought so. You another of them faggots?” Cary’s mouth fell open. He sat up straighter in his chair and glared at the man. Goddamn homophobe. Cary loved working on the ranch and he loved Texas, but sometimes he hated living in such a small town. There were too many narrow-minded people around. It was easier to avoid people like that in a big city, it was damn near impossible here. “Lyle, why don’t you go on back to your table? Or I’ll call Joe and tell him his hand is causing a whole heap of trouble here.” Lyle growled at the barkeep and his eyes flashed a warning, but he did as the man said. Cary watched him rejoin his friends at the table. He leaned in to whisper something to the www.total-e-bound.com

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man sitting next to him and they both turned to glare at Cary, their mouths curled up into snarls. Their eyes were filled with a deep hatred that made Cary shiver. Okay, maybe it was time to leave. Cary didn’t want any trouble but he hated that he couldn’t have a drink in peace. This town was his home too, damn it. He had as much right to be here as they did. Cary was used to the gay bars in New York where you didn’t have to hide any part of yourself. He’d always felt safe going out there. Nobody ever paid him any attention, just as he liked it. His eyes flickered to the men once again. They were still staring at him. “Guess that’s my cue,” he mumbled into his glass. He knocked back the rest of his drink and stood, grabbing his jacket from the stool next to him. He settled his tab with the wolf behind the bar and stumbled towards the exit. At first the wolf had tried to make him stay, which Cary didn’t understand until the barkeep admitted that he’d called Kelan to come get him. That pissed Cary off. He was a grown man. He could find his own damn way home, and he told him so, too. He hadn’t thought he’d had much to drink, but when he stepped outside and the cool night air hit him, he had to put a hand on the wall to steady himself. A wave of dizziness overwhelmed him and he felt bile rise in his chest. Damn, he couldn’t drive home in this state. He’d have to walk home and ask Nate to give him a lift back into town in the morning to pick up his truck. The Crazy Horse was only a couple of miles out, so Cary set off, struggling to put one foot in front of the other without tripping over and falling on his ass. It was something he did all the time when he was sober. And they say cats are graceful. Cary snorted. Whoever said that had never met Cary, because he was as clumsy as an ox. He stumbled through the parking lot and had just made it on to the dirt road when he heard a chorus of loud voices behind him. He turned and squinted into the darkness. Damn human eyesight. He could see much better as a cat. When his eyes adjusted, he saw the four men from the bar walking quickly in his direction. Shit. Cary froze. His breath quickened and his palms broke out in a sweat. He knew without doubt what the men wanted—he’d seen it in the wolf’s eyes when he’d spoken to him at the bar. The other men’s eyes had been filled with the same hatred. They were out for blood. Cary had taken plenty of beatings in the past but that didn’t make him any less terrified. www.total-e-bound.com

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His stomach heaved and he fought back another wave of sickness that travelled up his oesophagus and settled in the back of his throat. There was always the fear that they wouldn’t stop with a beating. What if they killed him? As soon as the thought entered his head, Cary remembered what the council had said. Gay shifters were being targeted by a local, human man…or men. In order to identify those shifters, they had to have help from one. Someone sympathetic to their cause. Someone like the wolf currently walking towards him with three humans in tow. Thoughts of his own mortality raced through Cary’s mind, interspersed with images of Aaron. How would his mate cope with his death? His only consolation was that Aaron would be better off without him. He was still young. They hadn’t been mated for very long so the pain should be less intense than it would have been if they’d been mated for a long time. Hopefully Aaron would find another mate. Maybe his next mate would be someone better suited to him, someone he deserved. Someone he could be proud of. Whether it was for the best for Aaron or not, the thought of never seeing his mate again sent panic coursing through Cary’s veins. He didn’t want his life to end before he got a chance to tell Aaron how much he was coming to mean to him. But then, he didn’t have to accept this fate, did he? He should fight for all he was worth. If he hurried, maybe he could outrun them. As the men drew closer, Cary made up his mind. He wasn’t ready to die. This time, he had to be strong—it was pointless trying to run. Although he might be able to outrun the humans, one of the men was a wolf and wolves were fast. It would be an exercise in futility. Cary had to stand his ground. He was tired of letting people walk all over him, tired of playing the victim. He’d done it for years with Gill and he swore when Gill died he would never do it again. It was time to stand up for himself, whatever the consequences. “Hey faggot! Where you running off to?” “You going back to that queer farm?” The men broke into fits of laughter at their pathetic excuse for jokes. Cary could slowly feel his fear turn to anger. His hands clenched into fists and his nostrils flared. The men were getter closer but Cary straightened his shoulders and stood tall, even though he was trembling on the inside. www.total-e-bound.com

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The wolf approached first. Cary stood his ground. He didn’t even move when he got right up in his face and sneered at him, even though the stench of beer and cigarettes on his breath was overwhelming. Cary thought it best not to show any fear, although the wolf could more than likely smell it on him. “You waiting for us, fag?” “It’s Mr Fag to you.” Shit, backchat like that would only serve to get him beaten up faster. Still, what was the point in stalling the inevitable? The wolf’s eyes flashed in the moonlight and Cary shivered—he couldn’t help himself. “You’re fucking with the wrong person,” the wolf spat out. Cary lifted his chin and looked down his nose at the wolf piece of shit. “I wouldn’t fuck you if I’d taken a box full of Viagra and you were the only piece of ass in a hundred mile radius.” Crap. Why couldn’t he just keep his big mouth shut? He was starting to think maybe he did have a death wish after all. Cary saw the fist fly towards him about a second before it made contact with his face. He stumbled backwards, barely managing to stay upright. He fought the impulse to raise a hand to his jaw to see if it was still connected to his face. The three stooges behind the wolf chuckled in appreciation. “Good one, Lyle. Think we need to teach this boy some manners.” Cary rolled his eyes. Fucking hillbillies. He looked at each of the men in turn. The one that had spoken was short and squat. The second had consumed one too many beers in his lifetime by the looks of the gut hanging over his jeans. The third was tall and insipid looking. Bland, with a completely forgettable face and, unlike his buddies, he looked bored with the whole scene. He was the most frightening of all. Cary could sense the emotions pouring out of the other three men. Excitement, hatred…he could even sense a little fear, but from the insipid man he got nothing. Absolutely nothing. He was like an empty shell. But his eyes held a darkness, a deeply rooted evil that chilled Cary to the bone. The wolf growled and started to circle him. He looked every inch the lethal predator circling his prey. Cary didn’t want to take his eyes off him, but he knew the three men in front of him were just as dangerous. Maybe even more so. At least the wolf would be terrified about the council finding out what he’d done. The humans looked as though they didn’t give a shit. www.total-e-bound.com

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Cary took a few paces back to try and put some distance between him and the three men but as he backed away from them, he only placed himself closer to the wolf. “Ah, Lyle, let’s stop fucking with him,” the fat one said. “I’m getting bored of this shit. I say we have ourselves some fun.” The bland man’s eyes lit up and he looked interested for the first time all night. That wasn’t good. What sort of fun did they have in mind? Cary’s heart started beating faster and, despite the cold, he felt a bead of perspiration trickle down his forehead. Lyle snickered behind him. “What did you have in mind?” he asked, circling back around to join the others. The fat one took a step forwards and his beady eyes travelled the length of Cary’s body. “He must be so used to fucking them faggots, I say we teach him what real men are like.” Cary’s entire body went stiff. He swallowed hard. “What the fuck?” His eyes darted back and forth between the four men. “What did you say?” They stared at Cary silently. The only thing to break the silence was the sound of crickets twittering in the nearby cornfields. After a moment, the short, squat man threw his head back and let out a thunderous belly laugh and soon they all joined suit. All but the tall, insipid man. “Look at his face,” Lyle said around a guffaw. “He thought you were being serious. As if we’d really want to fuck that little homo.” At breakneck speed, Lyle grabbed hold of Cary’s arms and pinned them behind his back. Cary gasped and struggled to break free from the tight grip. “Don’t struggle,” Lyle whispered into the back of his neck. “You’ll only make this more difficult.”

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Chapter Five

Aaron skidded the truck to a halt in the parking lot outside Jessie’s dance hall. Cary’s truck was near the entrance to the building surrounded by a few other vehicles. Aaron dashed out of the truck and ran inside. The bar was about half full. Loud music wafted out of a jukebox in the corner of the room but Aaron had no idea what was playing. His eyes shifted around the tables in the room, searching for his mate. Cary wasn’t anywhere inside. Aaron stepped up to the bar and got the attention of the barman. He was a wolf, more than likely the friend Kelan had talked about. The wolf stepped up to Aaron and nodded in greeting. “You got any ID?” Aaron shook his head. “I’m not here to drink. I’m looking for my mate.” Shit. What the hell did he say that for? He was supposed keep his mating a secret and here he was telling the first person he crossed paths with. Oh well, he’d said it now. There was no turning back, and if this wolf was a friend of Kelan’s then surely it wouldn’t make any difference if he knew or not. The bartender shook his head. “Haven’t been any wolves in here tonight except…” His eyes suddenly grew wide and his mouth fell open. “Wait a minute. You’re not mated to Lyle, are you?” Aaron shook his head. “Cary, he’s a panther. You called Kelan about him a while back. I’m Aaron.” The wolf didn’t look any less surprised by Aaron’s correction but he didn’t comment. “You just missed him. He left already.” “But his truck is still outside.” The wolf looked over to the corner of the room and his eyes widened in horror. “Shit. This is not good.” “What the hell are you talking about?” www.total-e-bound.com

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“There were some men in here earlier, giving him shit. I used to work with one of them, a wolf—Lyle, his name is. He’s bad news. I don’t know the others he was with but they were thick as thieves.” Aaron’s stomach lurched. He took a deep breath and closed his eyes, fighting to keep them from shifting. His skin prickled and he felt his hackles rise. His wolf was itching to break free and hunt down the men. He’d kill each and every one of them if they’d touched a hair on Cary’s head. “Hey! Calm down!” the wolf whispered. “There are humans here.” Aaron opened his eyes and breathed in deeply through his mouth. “How long ago did they leave?” The bartender looked at his watch and shrugged. “Maybe ten minutes ago.” Aaron nodded and rushed out of the bar. Once outside, he scanned the parking lot but there was no sign of Cary. Aaron’s hands were shaking. He balled them into fists and strode across the lot. Aaron used his wolf senses to try to locate Cary but there was hardly a trace of his mate’s scent in the cool, night breeze. He reached the end of the lot and stopped, trying to listen for any sound that might help him locate his mate. He was about to start moving again when he heard muffled voices coming from the cornfield to his left. Without pause for thought, Aaron started running in the direction of the voices. He picked up speed and sprinted across the field, barely holding on to his sanity. He had to find Cary. All he cared about was the safety of his mate. So help me God, if they… Aaron couldn’t see anything over the tall sheaves but the closer he got, the louder the voices became. Then Aaron heard a sound that made his stomach lurch violently. Cary—his Cary—crying out in pain. The sound permeated Aaron’s senses and caused an answering pain in his own chest that was so sharp it stole his breath. Aaron’s incisors elongated and his eyes shifted to their wolf form. He charged through the corn, his human side becoming less and less prominent. His wolf was howling within— incensed. When he broke into a clearing, he came face to face with Cary and his tormentors. Aaron took in the scene, scenting the air before he charged. There were four men. Three humans and a wolf. The wolf held Cary’s arms behind his back. Cary’s nose was bleeding, his lip was cut and his left eye was black and half closed. His legs were bent and he looked www.total-e-bound.com

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barely able to support his own weight. A short, fat man was stood in front of Cary, his arm raised behind him. His hand was clenched into a fist, ready to strike. Aaron saw red. He lunged forwards and charged into the man, knocking him forcefully to the ground. Complete chaos ensued. The wolf who was holding Cary tossed him to the ground like a rag doll and pounced. He was too slow. Aaron anticipated the strike and dived out of the way. He spun round in time to catch the hand of another man before it made contact with his head. He twisted the man’s arm until he cried out then with one solid push sent him flying away. The wolf had turned and was about to lunge again when Aaron growled, low and deep. The sound was menacing and meant as a warning. The wolf took note. His eyes widened, taking in Aaron’s impressive height and power and he stopped moving forward. A fourth man was hovering to the side, watching the action. The tall, slim man hadn’t moved throughout the fight, but he’d watched the event with marked interest. Aaron glared at the man, his chest rumbling, daring him to move. He took in Aaron’s eyes, his teeth and claws but he didn’t so much as raise an eyebrow. He simply turned calmly and disappeared silently into the rows of corn. The wolf followed suit. When Aaron turned to check on the other two men, they too had hightailed it out of the field. Aaron was torn. He was so angry he wanted to give chase—to hunt down the men and kill them—but his mate needed him. He immediately ran to Cary’s side. His mate was lying on the ground, clutching his side. His face looked worse now that Aaron was nearer to him. His eye was nearly swollen shut and the cut on his lip was deep. His nose looked as though it might be broken. “Jesus Christ. What did they do to you?” A tear ran down Aaron’s cheek and landed on Cary’s neck. Cary tried to smile but the cut on his lip re-opened and started bleeding again. “My hero.” Aaron tried to smile down at Cary but he wasn’t sure he’d managed it. “Try not to talk, okay?” Cary shook his head. “I’m sorry,” he rasped. “Don‘t be sorry, babe.” Aaron wiped the blood off Cary’s chin with his thumb. “None of this is your fault.” www.total-e-bound.com

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“I shouldn’t have left the ranch. I shouldn’t have gone to the bar. If I’d have stayed and talked to you… I shouldn’t have broken my promise.” “Don’t worry about any of that now, okay? You’re safe. That’s all that matters. Although next time I get my hands on those bastards, they won’t be as lucky.” “I tried to fight them,” Cary’s voice broke as he spoke and Aaron had to wipe away the tears that were falling rapidly down his face. “But there were too many of them and I wasn’t strong enough.” “Shh babe, it’s okay. Let’s get you home.” Cary nodded. Aaron helped lift him off the ground. He snaked an arm around his mate’s waist to support most of his weight then led him out of the field and across the parking lot to Kelan’s truck. There was no sign of any of the men. But they would pay for what they had done to his mate. Aaron would see to it if it was the last thing he ever did. Aaron opened the door to the truck and helped Cary into the seat. He strapped on his belt for him then closed the door. They hadn’t spoken to one another since they’d left the field. Aaron didn’t know what to say. He was so angry, he was afraid he might say something he’d later regret. He didn’t blame Cary for what had happened but why the hell had he come here alone? Aaron jumped in the driver’s side and started the engine. He put the car in gear and only then did he turn to properly study Cary’s face. “How you feeling?” “Like stir-fried crap.” Aaron smiled, but he knew the expression didn’t make it to his eyes. He felt anything but jovial. “Is anything broken?” he asked. Cary was leaning against the passenger window and still clutching his side. “No. My ribs are sore…hurt like hell, actually. Think one of them is cracked but no broken bones. I’ve had plenty—I know what they feel like.” Aaron frowned. He couldn’t stand the thought of his mate being in pain. He hated how much he’d suffered. “I should have got to you sooner. But I was asleep. I didn’t even realise you were gone until Kelan came to tell me you were here. I should have known.” Cary started to shake his head. “None of this is your fault. I shouldn’t have left. I should have talked to you.” www.total-e-bound.com

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“We can talk later. For now you need to rest. Your body needs to heal. It would be best if you shifted, you’d heal more quickly. Let’s get you home first, okay?” “’Kay.” Aaron sighed. “I was scared, Cary. Afraid I wouldn’t get to you in time.” “But you did.” Aaron nodded. He had…but only barely. He tried to push that horrible thought from his mind as he manoeuvred the car out of the lot. He turned left on to the dirt road that led backto the ranch. “Aaron?” Aaron took his eyes off the road and turned to look at his mate. “Yeah?” “Thank you.” The words were whispered softly but Aaron heard them as clearly as if they’d been shouted—and the sentiment behind them was equally apparent. “No need for thanks. You’re my mate. I’d die for you.” Cary closed his eyes and leaned his head back against the seat. Aaron watched the road for a few moments, and when he turned back to look at Cary, a single tear was making its way down his mate’s cheek. Aaron frowned. It was going to take time to prove his feelings to Cary—to prove he was someone Cary could trust. Someone he could count on. It would probably take even longer for Cary to see himself as someone worthy of being loved. But Aaron had time. He’d make sure he told Cary every day how special he was until his beautiful cat truly believed it.

**** Cary undid his seatbelt when Aaron pulled the truck to a halt outside the ranch. A sharp pain tore through his chest when he moved. He definitely had a cracked rib, possibly two. At least his lip wasn’t on fire anymore. The cut on it had already started to heal. His ribs would take longer, and so would his swollen eye. He could hardly open it. Lights were shining out of the downstairs window in the ranch house. Cary suspected Kelan was still up and waiting for him and Aaron to get home. Aaron ran around the front of the truck to help him get down from the bench seat. His face was full of concern as he slid an arm around Cary’s waist and handled him with the www.total-e-bound.com

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same delicacy one would handle a fragile china doll. Cary felt bad for worrying Aaron. Why did he have to be so impulsive? If he had only stayed home and talked to his mate none of this would have happened. But he’d been afraid to talk to Aaron—afraid that the answers he’d get wouldn’t be what he wanted to hear. The more time they spent together, the more Cary could see what a good person Aaron was. There was a part of him that didn’t believe he deserved someone like Aaron…that he wasn’t good enough for him. As they crossed the yard to the bunkhouse, the door to the ranch house opened and Kelan appeared. He strode over to greet them. “What the hell happened to your face?” “Uh, would you believe I walked into a door?” Cary tried to make light of what had happened to him but when he saw the look of horror on Aaron’s face, he wished he could take it back. “This is no joking matter, Cary. You were nearly killed,” Aaron fumed. Kelan’s eyes darkened and Cary felt a burst of power radiate from the alpha wolf. It crashed into him like a tsunami. “What do you mean? I think you need to tell me what the hell happened tonight.” “A group of men attacked him in a field near the bar.” Cary saw the shiver that passed over Aaron’s body, and his voice broke when he spoke as though reliving what had happened to Cary was too painful for him. “You’d better call the council, Kelan. They’ll need to hear about this.” “What?” Cary squeaked. He couldn’t believe what he was hearing. “You can’t call the council. If they come here, they’ll find out we’re mated.” Aaron sighed. “We don’t have any choice. Those men are dangerous. We can’t just let this go. You do realise they could have been the same men that killed those shifters near here and over in Louisiana, don’t you?” Cary hung his head. “I think they were the same men.” Aaron looked at Kelan. Neither man spoke but Kelan nodded his head then ran back into the house. Cary suspected he’d gone to make the call. “What makes you think they were the same men?” “I don’t know. It’s just a feeling. One of them scared me more than the others and he didn’t even lay a finger on me. But there was something in his eyes. And when they kicked www.total-e-bound.com

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me one time, my eyes shifted. I couldn’t control it. But none of them acknowledged it. I think they already knew. I think the wolf told them. And the tall one…” “I think I know the one you mean. He was just standing around when I showed up and when he saw my eyes and teeth he wasn’t afraid. If anything, he looked…excited.” “The bartender knew the wolf, said his name was Lyle.” “Don’t worry, the council will catch them.” “What do you think they’ll do when they find out about us?” Aaron slid his arms over Cary’s shoulders and stroked the back of his head. He leant down and placed a gentle kiss on Cary’s cheek. “I don’t know. But try not to worry about that right now. Whatever happens, we’ll deal with it together, okay?” Cary nodded. “Yeah, I can live with that.” A few moments later Kelan came back out of the house. “Gregory and his partner, Ashton, are on their way here.” Aaron groaned and straightened his back. “Perfect,” he whispered. “Just what have you got against Gregory?” Cary asked. Aaron frowned and shrugged his shoulders. “He’s an arrogant ass, that’s what. Besides, he was looking at you funny. I didn’t like it.” Cary couldn’t fail to notice the smile that Kelan tried to hide around a cough. “You’re jealous? Of Gregory? Is that what this is about?” Cary asked. “What? No…I just don’t trust him is all.” Even in the near darkness Cary could see the colour that had risen in Aaron’s cheeks. If Cary wasn’t in so much pain, he would have rolled his eyes. He did manage a small smile as he slipped his hand into Aaron’s. “You know you have nothing to worry about, right?” Aaron shrugged and averted his gaze. Cary had always hated Gill’s jealousy but with Aaron, Cary found it almost endearing. Maybe because Aaron displayed none of Gill’s suspicion and distrust. And he didn’t have Gill’s temper. He was powerful, yes, and he’d been scary to watch in the field while he had fought, but somehow Cary knew deep down that Aaron would never hurt him. “Aaron, why don’t you take Cary inside to get cleaned up?” Kelan asked. www.total-e-bound.com

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Aaron nodded. “Okay. You ready?” Cary nodded and let Aaron help him towards the bunkhouse. “Oh, Kelan?” Aaron called over his shoulder. “Does Dad know about what happened tonight?” Kelan shook his head. “No. Jake and I were the only ones up when Pete called. Do you want me to wake him?” “No. Don’t want to worry him.” “Okay. After you get Cary settled inside, I’d like to talk to you.” “Sure thing.” Cary hated being treated like he was helpless but if it hadn’t been for Aaron’s intervention earlier he might be dead by now. The thought was sobering and he let Aaron help him the rest of the way without complaint. When they were inside, Cary limped down the hall to his bedroom with Aaron attached firmly to his side. One of the men had got in a good kick to his groin and, now that the adrenaline had worn off, it was starting to hurt like hell. Bastards. Cary crossed to his en suite and Aaron finally removed the arm from around his waist. “Are you going to be okay from here?” “I’m good. Go on out and talk to Kelan.” Aaron hesitated for a moment then nodded his head. “Okay, if you’re sure.” Aaron turned to leave then stopped. He leant down and placed a gentle kiss on Cary’s head just above his swollen eye. “Try not to get into any more trouble.” Aaron’s mouth curved into a smile. It was the first genuine smile Cary had seen on the wolf’s face since he’d found him in the cornfield. “Yes, Sir.” Cary saluted in jest. “I’m going to take a shower then I’m going straight to bed to try to get some rest.” “See that you do,” Aaron teased.

****

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“I spoke to my friend at the council about your mating.” Kelan threaded his thumbs through his belt loop and leant back against the post on the ranch house porch. The look on his face told Aaron the news wasn’t good. “What did he say?” “My friend agrees that the law is outdated and needs to be changed. He’s going to have a chat with some of his colleagues, see what they can come up with. He hasn’t promised anything but Dean is a good guy. If anything can be done, he’s the man to do it.” “Thanks for all your help on this, Kelan. I appreciate it.” Kelan shrugged. “It’s nothing. Besides, you and Cary are family. So, tell me about the men tonight. Did you get any of their names?” “The wolf was called Lyle. But I didn’t catch any of the others’ names.” Kelan removed his hands from his jeans and stood up straight. His eyes flashed and the expression on his face turned stone cold. “Lyle?” “Yeah, you know him?” “There’s only one Lyle around here that I know of. He’s one of Joe Walker’s hands. Nasty piece of work. I’ve had words with him before.” “Cary seems to think the men that beat him up tonight could be the same men the council are looking for.” Kelan frowned. “Lyle is not the sharpest tool in the box. He’s a bigot and homophobe of the highest order, but I didn’t figure him for a killer. Is Cary sure?” “I think it was just a feeling he got about them. I gotta say, I agree with him. There was this one guy—he was just standing around in the background watching but there was something in his eyes… I don’t know… It’s hard to explain, but he was scary. Guy gave me the creeps.” “I’m sure the council will catch them. Talk of the devils.” Aaron turned and watched a black sedan plough towards the ranch, kicking up dust in its wake. Aaron straightened his shoulders and prepared himself for the inevitable confrontation with Gregory. Kelan walked down the steps of the porch and greeted the two men as they got out of the car. Gregory looked over the alpha before offering his hand. “Are you Kelan?” Kelan shook the man’s hand. “I am. And you are?” www.total-e-bound.com

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“I’m Gregory Hale and this is my partner, Ashton Monroe.” A smaller man stepped forwards and shook Kelan’s hand. He was bulky with a wide forehead and a beak-like nose. Aaron scented the air but the men were downwind and he couldn’t tell what type of shifter the man was, or if he was even one at all. Gregory’s eyes lifted and fixed on Aaron. He frowned. “What is he doing here?” Aaron bit his tongue and made his way down the steps. He had to try to avoid getting into an argument with Gregory. He and Cary were in enough trouble already. Oh well, he could no longer hide it. He crossed to the men and stopped in front of Gregory. “I’m here because my mate nearly got killed tonight.” Gregory went stock-still. He sniffed the air between them and Aaron saw his jaw tense and his eyebrows pull together. “What the fuck have you done?” Gregory shouted. “Are you completely stupid?” Aaron’s temperature rose and his gums itched as his canines threatened to elongate, but he tried not to react, although it took everything he had not to lunge for the man. Kelan must have noticed how tightly wound Aaron was, because he stepped in between the two men and tried to defuse the situation. “This was not Aaron’s fault,” Kelan said. Gregory snorted. “Please don’t tell me you’re trying to blame Cary for this.” Gregory’s voice grew louder with every word. “I’m not blaming anyone. But you’ve got to be reasonable. Aaron and Cary are both very young. It is not their fault they are mated. I’m sure you know how hard it is to resist your mate once you’ve found them.” Gregory’s mouth curved down and his eyelids drooped. He sighed. “I don’t have a mate, but that is beside the point. What they have done is against the law. I cannot let this pass. It would cost me my job.” Gregory’s partner had remained so quiet up until that point that Aaron had almost forgotten he was standing there. Aaron scented the air between them then scrunched his eyebrows together in confusion. Was that a bird he could smell? The man stepped forwards and looked at Aaron with something bordering on pity.

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“I have been mated, and believe me I appreciate how difficult it is to resist one’s mate, but I agree with Gregory. This is out of our hands, son. We have to take you back to headquarters where you will be dealt with by our superiors.” “Now wait just a minute…” Kelan began. “It’s all right,” Aaron interrupted, placing a hand on Kelan’s shoulder. “I’ll go with them if I have to.” Gregory nodded, seemingly satisfied with the turn of events. Aaron’s mind drifted back to Cary and the injuries he had sustained tonight. He had to try to save his mate from any further stress and worry if he could but he was almost too afraid to ask. “Is there… Damn. Is there any chance you can keep Cary out of this? He’s been through a lot already and I don’t want him to suffer any further. I’ll take full responsibility for claiming him.” Gregory pursed his lips. It was obvious that he liked Cary and hopefully he wouldn’t want to see him get into any trouble. He opened his mouth to respond but Ashton spoke first. “I’m afraid that is out of the question. You are equally as responsible. You will both be coming to headquarters with us. But first we have to deal with the matter at hand. Tell us everything you know about the men that attacked Cary tonight.” “Come with me,” Kelan said, gesturing to the ranch house. “I can tell you everything you need to know. I even know where one of the men lives.” The beak-nosed man smiled then followed Kelan into the house. “I had hoped it wouldn’t come to this.” Gregory scrubbed a hand over his face then let it fall to his side. “I warned you both earlier about continuing a relationship. You should have listened to me.” “It’s not as easy as that.” Aaron frowned. “You’ll understand one day when you find your own mate. What is going to happen to us?” “Honestly? It’s been a while since cross-species mating has been brought before the council so it’s hard to tell. But in the past?” Gregory sighed and averted his gaze from Aaron’s. “In the past, the council has not been lenient. I know of one case in which both parties were sent to prison. On other occasions, the pair was simply separated.” www.total-e-bound.com

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“What?” Aaron’s stomach clenched and his mouth became suddenly as dry as the Sahara. “What do you mean separated?” Gregory stared at Aaron as though he were crazy. “You don’t honestly expect the council to allow you to stay with Cary, do you?”

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Chapter Six

Cary groaned as the hot spray of the shower worked its magic on his neck and shoulders. He only wished it would help the other parts of his body. He ached—everywhere. His eye throbbed, his ribs felt as though they were caught in a vice and he was sure his head was about to explode. That was the only conceivable explanation for the constant, somewhat debilitating pounding. Still,

he’d

been

through

this

before—worse,

actually—and

he

knew

he’d

heal…eventually. Aaron had been right. What he needed to do was shift. But he didn’t have time for that with the council members arriving. He’d be lucky to grab five minutes’ rest in bed after he towelled off. He groaned. Bed, that’s what he needed. Bed and Aaron, in any order. He turned off the water then climbed stiffly out of the tub. A sharp pain shot through his groin with the movement. Cary cursed and looked down at the offending area. He wished he hadn’t. His groin was swollen and completely covered by an angry-looking purple and black bruise. He grabbed a towel and delicately patted the area dry. It was tender. Scratch that…it hurt like freaking hell. Why do they always go for the ‘nads? Cary finished drying off and wrapped the towel around his waist. He was just about to brush his teeth when a noise sounded outside the bathroom door. “Aaron? You back already?” When he didn’t receive a reply, Cary flung open the door and stepped into his bedroom. “Aaron?” Cary stopped short just inside the door. The face grinning at him from beside the bed was not Aaron’s. It didn’t belong to anyone on the ranch. It was the tall, insipid man from the bar. “What the fuck are you doing here?” Cary demanded. “What do you wa—” Cary didn’t get to finish his sentence. He felt a sharp pain in his stomach and when he looked down, he saw a small dart sticking out of him. He clutched at it to pull it out and felt himself get dizzy, his eyes growing heavy. The last thing he saw before the darkness consumed him was a sinister grin on the man’s face and an evil glint in his black eyes. www.total-e-bound.com

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**** “We all set?” Gregory asked when his partner followed Kelan out of the ranch and down the steps of the porch. Ashton nodded. “The wolf lives and works on a ranch near here. No information on any of the humans, but I’m sure it won’t be too difficult to locate them when we’ve found the wolf.” Ashton’s eyes flashed with menace. Aaron had no doubt they’d be able to make the wolf talk. Together they made quite a formidable pair of opponents. “Thank you for all your help, Kelan,” Ashton reached out and shook the alpha’s hand. “You’re welcome. If you need anything else…” Ashton nodded. “We’ll call you. And I’ll see what I can do about that other matter we discussed.” “I’d appreciate that.” Kelan’s gaze fell upon Aaron. Have they been talking about me? “Aaron, we’ll come back to collect you and Cary later. I really am sorry we have to do this.” Aaron shrugged. “Guess you’re only doing your jobs.” Ashton walked around the car and climbed in the passenger seat. Gregory was halfway into the driver’s side when the door to the bunkhouse flew open and Nate came charging out. “Get your asses in here now!” he yelled. “It’s Cary, he’s gone. Someone took him.” For the briefest of moments, Aaron was unable to move. When Nate’s words began to sink in, he let out an almighty roar and started to run at breakneck speed towards the house. He was dimly aware of three sets of footsteps following in his wake. Aaron tore past Nate and into the bunkhouse. “Cary!” “I was asleep,” Nate said. “Cary called out, it woke me up. But I didn’t get there in time.” All Aaron could hear from the wolf was noise. His mind was solely on his mate as he ran through the bunkhouse to get to Cary’s bedroom. “Oh God, if something happens to him I’ll never forgive myself.” www.total-e-bound.com

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Aaron blocked out Nate’s voice completely as he sprinted through the open door and surveyed the room. Nothing looked out of place but the bathroom door was open and a damp, white towel lay discarded on the floor in a pile. The large bedroom window was hanging open. The slight breeze ruffled the cobalt curtains, and the moon cast an eerie shadow in the room. Aaron could feel its pull. In a day or two it would be full and he would have no choice but to shift. Even now, his wolf grew anxious. It wanted to be set free. It wanted to find its mate. Aaron ran to the window and looked out into the night. The back of the property looked out into part of the yard and the woods that lay beyond. The night was still, lifeless, dead. Aaron screamed out his frustration through the open window. He lifted himself onto the sill and climbed out. He inhaled deeply, trying to find some trace of his mate on the wind. Cary’s scent was strong, but Aaron could also smell one of the humans from the cornfield earlier…and the wolf. “Aaron, wait.” Gregory grabbed hold of his arm as he was about to run towards the wood. He shrugged him off. “Don’t tell me to wait,” he spat. “My mate is out there. I have to find him. They’ve been here. They came here for him and they took him. I can smell them.” “Who can you smell?” Gregory asked. “The wolf and one of the humans from earlier.” Aaron started to make for the trees but Gregory pulled him back again. “I said wait. We’ll all look for him.” Aaron growled at Gregory and tried to shove him away but Gregory was stronger than he looked. “I have to find my mate!” Gregory kept a firm hold of Aaron and turned to the window. “Ashton?” Gregory’s partner climbed out and stood at his side. “Yeah?” “Go around to the front of the bunkhouse. See if you pick up any scents. You know what to do if you find anything.” Ashton nodded and immediately set off in the direction Gregory indicated. Kelan climbed out next, followed closely by Nate. “We’re wasting time here!” Aaron barked. “They could have… What if they…” www.total-e-bound.com

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Gregory placed his other hand on Aaron’s shoulder and for the first time Aaron saw sympathy and compassion in the cat’s eyes. “We’ll find him, Aaron, but we have to do this properly. Kelan? You go around front, check the barn and the corral. If you don’t find anything, meet up with Ashton then join me and Aaron in the woods.” Kelan nodded. “Do you want me to stop by the house? Get the rest of the family to join in the search?” “No. Right now we don’t know what we’re facing. We don’t know if they are armed. I can’t risk anyone else getting hurt, or worse.” Kelan frowned but he nodded his agreement. His gaze fell upon Aaron. “We’ll get him back.” Aaron swallowed hard and nodded. “Who are you?” Gregory asked. “Nate. I live in the bunkhouse with Cary. Work with him.” Gregory gave him a once-over then nodded. “Okay, fine, you can check the woods with us. Go fifty yards to the right and keep moving straight ahead. Call out to us if you find anything. But be careful.” Nate nodded then hurried off. “Aaron, I need you to stay calm, okay? I know how difficult this must be for you, but you must keep a clear head. If you go charging in without knowing what you’re facing, you could do Cary more harm than good.” “I have to find him,” Aaron whispered. He could hear the desperation in his voice but it was unavoidable. Gregory led him towards the trees. “We will.” Aaron nodded and swallowed down the lump in his throat. Gregory let go of his arm and started moving off to the left. “Keep moving in a straight line. If you hear or smell anything, call me. I’ll be no more than fifty feet from you. I’ll hear.” Aaron gave a sharp nod but he didn’t speak. He didn’t trust his voice. He stopped briefly at the tree line and scented the air. Cary’s scent was faint but he’d definitely come this way. When Aaron turned to tell Gregory, the cat had already disappeared into the trees. Aaron took a deep breath and started walking. How the hell could this happen twice in one www.total-e-bound.com

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night? Aaron swore to himself that when he found Cary, the cat was never leaving his side again. There was no denying now that these were the men that had killed the other shifters. They had already beaten Cary once. If they were just some local thugs who got their jollies picking on people weaker than them, they would have been satisfied with that. The only conceivable reason for them to turn up at the ranch and snatch Cary from his bedroom was to finish what they’d started earlier. Aaron tried to swallow down his fear. He had to find his mate before they got the chance to hurt him further…or worse. Aaron had just found his mate. He could not lose him like this. Aaron followed the path through the woods. The deeper he went, the thicker the trees grew, until they completely blocked out the light shining down from the moon. Aaron was struggling to see with his limited human eyesight, so he shifted his eyes to their wolf form to give him better visibility. He would find Cary more quickly if he fully shifted to his wolf, as his sense of smell would be better then too, but he knew that wasn’t the wisest thing to do. Gregory was right. He could not go charging in this time. He had surprised the group earlier. They hadn’t been expecting anyone to turn up and interrupt them. This time they would be prepared for it. Aaron closed his eyes and scented the air again. Before he opened them, a shot rang out followed by a loud howl that ripped through the quiet night, causing the hair on the back his neck to stand on end. It had to be Nate. Nate was in wolf form and he’d found something. But what about the shot? Aaron reacted instinctively. He sprinted through the trees, pushing away branches that blocked his path and scratched the bare skin on his arms. Please God, let Cary be all right.

**** Cary opened his eyes and squinted in the darkness. Where the hell was he? He felt like he’d been run over by a truck. He shivered as the cool night air wafted over his body…his very naked body. What the fuck? He tried to sit up but the action made him dizzy. He reached down to steady himself and his hand came into contact with grass and dirt. Am I in the forest? “I didn’t sign up for this, Malachi.” www.total-e-bound.com

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Cary stopped moving and tried to make out where the voice was coming from and who had spoken. “Just shut up and do as I say.” The first man growled and Cary suddenly realised who it was. The wolf from the bar…Lyle. Everything came flooding back. He’d been in his room, just having taken a shower, and the human had been there. He’d shot Cary with something. A tranquiliser dart, Cary assumed. But where had they brought him? What did they want? More importantly, why was he still alive? “Look, I agreed to help you find the shifters. You know I hate those faggots as much as you do. But this has gone far enough.” “It hasn’t gone nearly far enough!” Malachi screeched. “I will not stop until I’ve wiped out every last one of them. They know who we are now, after that fucking cat and his mate identified us. We have to kill them all.” The thought of Aaron being hurt sent cold shivers through Cary’s body but he tried to remain still, to keep quiet. He didn’t want the men to see he was awake. “Us and what army?” Lyle snapped back. “Face it, we’re outnumbered. We have to give ourselves up.” “Don’t be such a fucking imbecile. We’ll do no such thing. The only ones that know about us are on their way here right now. The two council members that showed up won’t have had time to call it in. If we kill the wolves and that cat piece of shit, we’ll be scot-free.” Lyle sighed and started pacing. “I don’t like this. I don’t like it at all.” “You don’t have to like it. Just do as I say.” “There are two alphas, two! How the fuck are we supposed to fight them both?” Cary kept perfectly still. He was lying about ten feet away from the two men but he was close enough to see the depraved gleam in Malachi’s eyes. The lunatic’s eyes fell upon a gun, resting on the forest floor near a tall cypress tree. “Let me worry about that. Just keep your ears open and stop whining. You’re giving me a headache.” The wolf frowned and began pacing around the small clearing. “Why are we keeping the cat alive?” Cary closed his eyes quickly when Lyle turned to look down at him. www.total-e-bound.com

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“We’ll kill him soon enough,” Malachi replied. “I want to use him as bait for the young wolf.” Cary’s nostrils flared. He could feel the heat rise on his neck, ears and cheeks. They would touch Aaron over his dead body. He had to think of a way out of this. Cary heard the grass crunching under Lyle’s feet as he walked to the edge of the clearing. He cracked open his eyes and saw that Malachi had joined him. The gun was still resting against the tree. It was now or never. Cary lifted his sore limbs from the forest floor and limped over to the gun. He was about to reach down and grab it when Lyle came charging back into the clearing. The wolf careened into him, knocking him to the floor. The tackle came with such force the wind whooshed out of Cary’s lungs, leaving him breathless. Lyle’s canines were extended and, as Cary watched, sharp claws tore from his fingers. He growled. The sound was low and deep and was meant to scare but Cary wasn’t afraid. He didn’t care for his own safety—his only concern was Aaron. He had to stop Lyle and Malachi before they got the opportunity to hurt his mate…or kill him. Cary hissed at Lyle. His own canines elongated and his fingers lengthened as his claws broke free. He swiped at Lyle’s head, leaving behind a trail of deep scratches that immediately began seeping blood. “You little prick!” Lyle roared. Malachi walked into the clearing and at the same time Lyle dived on Cary and pinned him to the ground. “Get the gun!” he shouted. Malachi frowned and sauntered towards the gun. “Jesus, Lyle. You call yourself a wolf? Can’t you handle one little kitty?” “Look what he did to my fucking face!” Lyle snarled. Cary tried to buck Lyle off before Malachi got to the gun but the wolf was too heavy. He screamed out his frustration and bucked harder, ignoring the intense pain in his ribs and groin. “Jesus, Malachi, hurry the fuck up.” Malachi bent to retrieve the gun. While his back was turned, a large, tawny wolf ran into the clearing and charged him. Malachi screamed and fell forwards, his head narrowly www.total-e-bound.com

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missing the tree trunk. The wolf fell after it made contact but it recovered quickly and turned to charge again. It was too late. Malachi had grabbed the gun and had it pointed at the wolf’s chest. He fired and the wolf fell backwards. Malachi sneered. As he turned to point the gun at Cary, the wolf let out a loud, tortured howl.

“Aaron, wait!” Aaron ignored Gregory and continued to run in the direction from which he’d heard the shot fired and the wolf howl. He had to get to his mate. “God damn it, wait up!” Gregory fell into step next to Aaron and easily kept up with his pace. “Do not go charging in there. You hear me?” “I’m not in the mood for a lecture, Gregory.” Aaron stopped running and let his wolf senses take over. Gregory stopped at his side. When Aaron inhaled, the grass, cypresses and nearby woodland animals were the first things he picked up on, but then… Cary was close. He could smell him nearby. He turned to Gregory and his eyes widened both in fear and anticipation. Gregory nodded. “I can smell him, too. Come on, this way.” Aaron swallowed down the lump in his throat and followed in Gregory’s wake. They moved twenty yards or so deeper into the forest and then Aaron heard it. The sound was faint but there was no mistaking who it was. Cary. His mate was close. Aaron could hear the human, too, and the wolf. He was about to take another step when he caught a scent, carried in the air by the small night breeze. The smell made his canines burst through his gums. Aaron could smell blood. His eyes shifted and when his skin began to itch and ripple Aaron had to force himself not to shift entirely. He turned to Gregory and the cat looked to be in the same predicament. The eyes that looked back at him were not human. They were the burning, amber eyes of a cat. Gregory had clearly smelt the same thing and it was affecting him in a similar way. Aaron moved faster through the trees, letting his nose lead him to the source of the smell, to his mate. They ran on another hundred yards and then Aaron stopped abruptly when he heard raised voices just beyond a wall of tall cypress trees. “Just fucking shoot him, Malachi!” Lyle shouted. “What are you waiting for?” www.total-e-bound.com

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Aaron started running. He couldn’t stand back and listen, there wasn’t time. He broke through into a small clearing and immediately roared out his frustration and anger. Cary was pinned to the floor beneath Lyle and struggling to get out from under his weight. His friend—Malachi—was crouched near a tree holding a gun pointed at a large, tawny wolf. The wolf was covered in blood but it was snarling at the human and edging ever closer. Aaron ignored the gun and ran to help Cary, his hands shifting into claws as he went. He had just made it to the large wolf when another shot rang out behind him. He didn’t turn to see who had been shot—if anyone. Instead he sliced his claws down Lyle’s neck, cutting deep into the flesh and causing the wolf to cry out. Lyle relinquished his hold and Cary was able to push him aside but Aaron could tell the act had been difficult for his injured mate— his lowered eyebrows and raised upper lip were evidence of his pain. “Are you okay?” Aaron asked. Cary gave a brief nod of his head. “Help him, please.” When Aaron turned, he saw Gregory and Malachi grappling with the gun. Nate was lying on the ground beside them in wolf form, not moving. Malachi had managed to get a good hold on the gun and when he turned it to point at Gregory’s chest, Aaron jumped up and ran to his aid. He crashed into the two men and made a grab for the weapon. The three of them fell to the floor and the gun went off. A blinding pain shot through Aaron’s shoulder but he ignored it. He threw himself on top of Malachi and bit into his neck, tearing at the man’s jugular with his extended canines. Malachi screamed but the sound turned into a gurgle. His eyes rolled back and his head fell to the ground. Just when Aaron thought the ordeal was over, Cary cried out. Aaron watched in horror as Lyle grabbed Cary’s arm and twisted it behind his back. He dragged Cary backwards on the forest floor and opened his jaws with the intention of biting into his neck with his sharp canines. In the blink of an eye, Gregory grabbed the discarded gun and fired. The shot was loud to Aaron’s ears as the bullet sailed through the clearing and hit Lyle right between the eyes.

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Chapter Seven

The beautiful, sleek black panther purred loudly and rubbed his body against Aaron’s naked leg. Aaron chuckled and reached down to stroke his mate’s silky coat. Cary was simply stunning in his cat form. Aaron was sure he would never tire of looking at his mate this way. Cary pushed his head into Aaron’s hand and the purring got louder. “Oh, you like that, do you?” Aaron asked, scratching behind Cary’s ear. In response, Cary snaked his tongue out and licked the palm of Aaron’s hand. Aaron threw his head back and laughed. “Cut that out, it tickles.” Aaron looked through the tree line to the ranch and bunkhouse beyond. He sighed. “Come on, Cary, you have to change back. Whoever the council sends will be here soon.” Cary lowered his eyes and growled, showing his disapproval, but he stepped away from Aaron and his body began twisting and contorting. A few moments later, Cary was kneeling before Aaron in his very naked human form. “Spoilsport.” Aaron chuckled. “Don’t blame me. I don’t want to meet with them any more than you do.” Cary thrust out his bottom lip. “Then let’s not. We could put it off. How about I call Gregory and tell him I’m sick or something.” “As tempting as it sounds, we have to do this. We can’t put off the inevitable. We’re going to have to meet with them sooner or later.” “I vote for later.” Aaron shook his head. “The sooner we get this over with, the sooner we can eat lunch. I’m starving.” That made Cary chuckle. “You’re always starving. But at least you’re positive everything is going to be okay with the council. I wish I had your confidence.” “I have to be confident,” Aaron said. “I can’t think of the alternative—it’s too terrible. Now that we’re together, nothing can ever separate us.” www.total-e-bound.com

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“I like that idea,” Cary began purring again. “I like it a lot.” Aaron smiled then he reached out, pulled Cary to his side and kissed him full on the mouth. When he pulled back, they were both breathing heavily. Cary raised his eyebrows in question. “Not a chance,” Aaron whispered against Cary’s lips. “Come on, let’s go to this meeting.” Cary winced. “What’s wrong?” Aaron followed Cary’s eyes down his slim, lithe body to the very impressive erection pointing in Aaron’s direction. “You’ve got to be kidding me. I can’t go back like this.” Aaron groaned, his own hardening dick starting to resemble his mate’s. “Cary, we haven’t got time.” Aaron watched as Cary smoothed a hand across his own chest, stopping to tweak one of his nipples. Then he trailed the hand down his torso until it reached his cock. He grabbed hold of it and stroked lightly. “Trust me, it’s not going to take long.” Aaron groaned again, his pulse quickening. He glanced nervously back at the house. While his head was turned, a sleek, black sedan made its way up the drive to the house. “Can you be, like, two seconds quick?” Cary followed Aaron’s line of sight. “God damn it!” Aaron chuckled and reached for their discarded clothes. “Here you go. We’d better hurry.” They dressed quickly and crossed the yard to the ranch house. Gregory was leaning on the hood of his car talking to Kelan when they approached. “How is Nate doing?” he asked. “He’s good,” Kelan replied. “Another day or so and he’ll be right as rain.” “Good to hear.” “Gregory.” Aaron nodded his welcome to the cat. Gregory turned and smiled broadly at him and Cary. “Hey, how you both doing?” “Good,” Cary replied. “Ribs have healed completely. But then it has been a couple of weeks.” “And you?” Gregory asked, looking at Aaron. www.total-e-bound.com

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“Good as new.” Aaron flexed his arm. “It was only a surface wound.” “I’ll leave you guys alone to talk,” Kelan said, turning to walk back to the house. “Yeah, thanks Kelan.” Gregory turned around and studied Cary and Aaron in turn. “You came alone?” Cary asked. Gregory nodded. “Yep. Seems I’m man enough to deal with a cub and one little kitty.” When Aaron growled, Gregory threw his head back and laughed, his eyes sparkling with mischief. “Jesus, Gregory, will you get it over with, please?” Aaron crossed his arms over his chest and frowned at the panther. “You’re killing us here.” Gregory’s mouth curved up into a smirk. “It’s good news. In light of all that has happened to you both, the council has agreed not to bring charges against you.” Cary gasped. “Are you for real?” “Yep. They took everything into account. The fact that Aaron saved my life featured heavily in their decision, of course. And I thank you for that,” Gregory added, meeting Aaron’s eye. “But in the end, they agreed that the law was archaic—certainly in the case of a same-sex mating where there wouldn’t be any children born. And we’re even working to change the law for opposite-sex cross-species mating. We have council members arguing that it should be the individual’s choice to decide. They know the risks going into such a partnership.” “Wow, that’s wonderful,” Cary sighed. “So that’s it. It’s all over with.” “Yep, you’re free men. Now you can actually enjoy your mating and the rest of your lives together.” Aaron reached out his hand and Gregory shook it. “Thank you. This means a lot to us. I don’t know how we can ever repay you.” “Welcome. And I’m sure I’ll think of something.” Aaron looked from Gregory to his mate. Cary was grinning. “He’s joking.” His eyes widened and he turned to Gregory, mouth agape. “You are joking, right?” Gregory chuckled and opened the door of his car. “Guess you’ll have to wait and see.” He slid into the driver’s seat and started the engine. When he turned back, he winked. “Thank you, Gregory.” Cary smiled and slid his arm around Aaron’s waist. www.total-e-bound.com

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Gregory nodded. “Oh, I almost forgot. The council have finished their questioning of the two men that beat up Cary with Lyle and Malachi. We’re sure now that they didn’t know about any of the murders. So the only thing we can hold them with is assault and battery…that is, if you want to press charges against them. Cary shook his head. “No. I just want to forget about everything and move on with my life.” Aaron pulled Cary closer to his side. They’d argued about this a few times over the last couple of weeks but Cary was adamant. Aaron hadn’t been able to change his mind. “Fair enough, if that’s what you want. I’ll let my superiors know.” Aaron and Cary waved Gregory off. When his car disappeared on the horizon, Aaron turned to his mate and placed a kiss on his forehead. “Can you believe it’s finally all over?” he asked, trailing his fingers up and down Cary’s back. Cary shook his head. “Don’t know what I’m going to do with myself now that I have nothing to worry about.” Aaron waggled his eyebrows comically. “I might have a few suggestions.” Cary laughed and they started to walk to the bunkhouse. “You have a one-track mind.” Aaron stopped short and stared at his mate in mock indignation. “Me? Which one of us is younger? I’d say it was you who corrupted me.” “And you’re complaining?” Cary asked. “Hell, no. In fact, I think you should take me to bed right now and corrupt me some more.” Cary chuckled and got them walking again. “You do realise there’s no rush now, right? We have the rest of our lives together.” Aaron sighed happily. “You say the most romantic things.” “Hey, Aaron?” Aaron groaned when he saw his Dad walking across the yard towards them. “Talk about timing.” Cary laughed. “Shut up, he’ll hear.” Stefan stopped in front of them, and his face broke out into a wide, genuine smile. “Well, what did he say?” www.total-e-bound.com

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“We’re off the hook,” Aaron replied. “Well, thank God for that,” Stefan said. “Although I never doubted for a minute it would go any other way.” Aaron snorted. “Yeah, right.” “I’m telling you, I knew. There was no way they could take both my sons from me.” When Aaron looked at his mate, Cary was smiling shyly. “Thank you, Mr Drake,” he said quietly. Stefan scowled. “How many times have I told you to call me Stefan, or Pop?” “Sorry, Pop.” “Well I gotta get back to work, but we’re expecting you both for dinner tonight,” he turned to leave. “Don’t forget.” “We won’t,” Aaron called after him. Aaron pulled Cary towards the bunkhouse but when he looked at his mate, a single tear was sliding down his cheek, and it stopped him in his tracks. “What’s wrong?” Cary shrugged. “I never thought I could be this happy.” Aaron brushed the tear away with his thumb, then leaned in and pressed a soft kiss to Cary’s lips. “You think this is happy, just wait and see how happy I’ll have made you twenty years from now.” Cary sighed contentedly and slipped his arms around Aaron’s neck, pulling him down for another kiss. “Can’t wait.”

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Colour Me Undead Amber Kell 24th October 2011

Excerpt Chapter One

Cora was going to kill her cousin. It wasn’t a big problem—few people would miss her, and as one of the undead, odds were good she would rise again. Still grumbling to herself, Cora pulled up in front of the spooky castle. Taking a deep breath, she tried to ignore the chills dancing up and down her spine and the goose bumps popping up across her flesh. She couldn’t believe she let herself be talked into this, organising a wedding for an undead bride and groom. If she thought suicide would get her out of this she would willingly jump off a bridge. Unfortunately, her aunt—the voodoo queen—would then calmly bring her back to life and hand over her wedding planner. Some days she hated her family. Today looked to be one of those days. Sitting in her car, she stared at the forbidding castle. Gloomy grey brick—check. Gargoyles grinning down in a macabre manner—check. Lightning storm beginning… Yep, it was like she was on a movie set. She could hear the director now. “Take one of ‘Scare the Crap out of Cora’.” Shaking her head at her silliness, Cora snagged her pink laptop case and opened the door of her lemon yellow Volkswagen Beetle. She climbed out and slammed the door behind her. If she didn’t use enough force the door didn’t always close completely. It was an old car and even with a full restoration it still had its quirks. The sound echoed in the unnaturally quiet courtyard, rattling her already shaky nerves.

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Cora didn’t know why she was so nervous. No one would harm her. Her cousin was marrying the second-in-line for the vampire throne. If anyone touched Cora, Melinda would rip off their head and show it to them. Still, that didn’t mean someone wouldn’t try something. She almost wished she’d taken the stake that her assistant, Becka, offered earlier. The perky blonde had popped into Cora’s office minutes before she had to leave and plunked down a suitcase full of anti-vampire paraphernalia. Her friend meant well and right about now Cora was yearning for those night vision goggles, but she didn’t think it showed good faith to come to a meeting equipped to kill your customer…even if they were family. Not that she planned on becoming known as the undead wedding planner, but money was money and the amount of cash her cousin promised her would more than finish paying off her mortgage. “Are you going to stand here all night or do you plan on coming in?” Cora screamed. She spun around and came face to face with the most gorgeous creature she’d ever seen. Creature indeed, because she could tell he was a vampire from his pale skin and glowing eyes. Still, he might be undead, but her libido worked perfectly fine. Despite the startled hammering of her heart, she had no problem imaging the tall, dark and undead cutie curled up next to her at night or maybe, in his case, the day. Beneath his glowing gaze, Cora straightened her spine. “Of course I’m coming in. I was trying to figure out the best way to enter.” “I suspect the steps would be a good choice.” The right corner of his mouth twitched as if he could barely contain his amusement. Cora resisted the urge to kick him. It was close, but she didn’t think her cousin would appreciate the assault on a member of her clan. “Good thinking. Melinda wouldn’t approve.” “Reading a person’s mind is extremely rude.” She glared at the tall vampire. Really, wasn’t anything sacred around here? “Very little,” the vampire countered. “However, I apologise if I made you uncomfortable.” His gaze took in her car, his mouth twitching again. “Do you have everything you need?” www.total-e-bound.com

Cora looked up at the creepy castle and thought about hopping back into her Volkswagen and making a break for it. Surely it wouldn’t be too difficult to hide from her cousin for the rest of her life? Every good instinct she had screamed against going inside the monstrous stone building. A cheery ring from her phone told Cora she had a message. The text alert sounded irrationally perky in the dim gloom of the night. Glancing up at the imposing vampire, Cora searched through her coat pockets. Why did she never remember to put her cell phone in the same place twice? “Hah.” The last pocket she searched contained the small device. She laughed as she looked at the phone’s readout. Her cousin had texted her a message. Get your ass into the castle. The little smiley face at the end didn’t make it less of a command. “Her highness calls.” Cora waved her phone at the vamp. The vampire frowned. “Your cousin isn’t royalty.” Cora laughed. “That’s what you think. My cousin’s been a little princess since she was born.” Feeling better knowing her cousin watched her from above, Cora clutched the handle of her laptop case and headed for the steps. “Here, take my arm. The stones are uneven.” Cora gave the vampire a suspicious glance but took his arm anyway. Her high heels weren’t meant for stone steps even if the dainty shoes looked adorable on her feet. For his lean frame, a surprising amount of muscle flexed beneath her hand. New chills went up her arm but these had nothing to do with the cold and creepy atmosphere and everything to do with the sexy man beside her. “I’m glad you think I’m sexy.” “Rudeness,” Cora proclaimed with a glare. “And I thought your cousin was difficult.” The sexy man raised his eyebrows at her. “You haven’t seen anything yet, honey.” “Honey?”

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Cora bit her lip, wishing she could take the endearment back. Despite being a big scary vamp, she felt comfortable after their banter and had become too familiar. Vampires liked their formality. They wallowed in it. “It’s a figure of speech.” There was a moment of silence as they continued upwards, their footfalls oddly in sync. “I like it,” he said after they’d traversed a few more steps. “You can call me honey whenever you want.” “Um, thanks.” She made a silent vow to avoid talking to him whenever possible. “I don’t think you’ll be able to ignore me,” the irritating vampire said. “Why not?” “Because I’m the groom’s brother.” With that announcement, they reached the front door where a guard stood at attention on either side. “Good evening, your highness,” the guard on the right greeted him.

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About the Author Lavinia discovered reading at an early age and could always be found with her nose in a book. She loved getting lost in a fantasy world even then. When her parents bought her a typewriter for Christmas at age eleven, her fate was sealed. She spent hours dreaming up characters and creating stories. Not a lot has changed. Now when she is not writing you can find her enjoying a new release e-book. Lavinia has lived all over the UK but currently resides in London, England. She has travelled extensively to places including Africa, Asia, Australia, America and most of Europe. Although some of her books are set in Texas she has never visited the state but plans to spend time there in the near future. She is an avid reader and her favourite authors include J. L. Langley, Carol Lynne, Chris Owen and Andrew Grey. Lavinia particularly loves supernatural fiction and her favourite authors in this genre include Kelly Armstrong, Keri Arthur and Charlaine Harris. Although Lavinia is a huge fan of the romance genre, she will admit to reading anything and everything. She loves horror, a good thriller and if a book has the capacity to make her cry, well, all the better. One thing she does insist on in a book, however, regardless of genre, is a happy ending, so you will always find one in the books she writes.

Email: [email protected] Lavinia Lewis loves to hear from readers. You can find her contact information, website and author biography at http://www.total-e-bound.com.

Also by Lavinia Lewis Shifters’ Haven: Kelan’s Pursuit Shifters’ Haven: Luke’s Surprise Shifters’ Haven: Cody’s Revelation

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