Faerie Bound

Faerie Bound Jenna Castille

Garrick has spent the better part of his life making his Las Vegas lupin pack the strongest of all the post-war human-born paranormal groups. Now he wants something for himself—a mate. But how will his pack respond if they discover their Alpha is a closeted sexual submissive? Not the typical faerie prince, Faolan is disobedient, lives in exile and has more piercings than a punk band. He’s also a sexual dominant longing for someone to call his own. What are a lovelorn faerie and wolf to do? Turn to a paranormal dating service, of course. When Divine Intervention pairs Garrick and Faolan, it’s a match made in BDSM heaven, the resulting explosion a conflagration of passion the likes of which neither has ever known. Of course, the reactions to a wolf/faerie union are just as heated…

An Ellora’s Cave Romantica Publication

www.ellorascave.com

Faerie Bound ISBN 9781419930843 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED Faerie Bound Copyright © 2010 Jenna Castille Edited by Ann Leveille Cover art by Darrell King Electronic book publication October 2010 The terms Romantica® and Quickies® are registered trademarks of Ellora’s Cave Publishing. With the exception of quotes used in reviews, this book may not be reproduced or used in whole or in part by any means existing without written permission from the publisher, Ellora’s Cave Publishing, Inc.® 1056 Home Avenue, Akron OH 44310-3502. Warning: The unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this copyrighted work is illegal. No part of this book may be scanned, uploaded or distributed via the Internet or any other means, electronic or print, without the publisher’s permission. Criminal copyright infringement, including infringement without monetary gain, is investigated by the FBI and is punishable by up to 5 years in federal prison and a fine of $250,000. (http://www.fbi.gov/ipr/). Please purchase only authorized electronic or print editions and do not participate in or encourage the electronic piracy of copyrighted material. Your support of the author’s rights is appreciated. This book is a work of fiction and any resemblance to persons, living or dead, or places, events or locales is purely coincidental. The characters are productions of the author’s imagination and used fictitiously.

FAERIE BOUND Jenna Castille

Trademarks Acknowledgment The author acknowledges the trademarked status and trademark owners of the following wordmarks mentioned in this work of fiction: Bose: Bose Corporation iPod: Apple Inc. Corporation Linkin Park: Linkin Park, LLC California Limited Liability Company Starbucks: Starbucks U.S. Brands Tinkerbell: Disney Enterprises, Inc. Velcro: Velcro Industries B.V. Limited Liability Company

Jenna Castille

Chapter One “Yes, Alpha. Just like that. Right there. Don’t stop.” The red-haired man babbled, nearly incoherent with lust, pushing his ass against the man fucking him. His slender body trembled and shook, spasms contorting his muscles as he built toward a worldshattering orgasm. Garrick braced his hand on the sweat-soaked back of the agile lupin heaving and bucking beneath him, fascinated by the movement of hard, twisting muscle under satinsoft skin. The man bared his teeth and growled, tossing his head and thrusting his ass into Garrick’s groin. He took every inch of Garrick’s long, thick cock without complaint, no matter how hard or fast. Actually he seemed to prefer harder and faster, begging for it, demanding it. He wiggled into Garrick’s pelvis, clenching his ass, doing everything he could to drive his Alpha wild with the same pounding desire that racked his body. And while Garrick’s aching cock did little to hide the fact that he was aroused by the situation, a part of him remained unmoved and disconnected. It was sex, just sex. Rougher than normal, it was nice enough and a distracting form of entertainment—a few minutes of hammering followed by a lackluster orgasm. Why did it leave him feeling so empty? You know why. You know what you really need, what you can’t risk having. Garrick closed his eyes against the fantasy seared in the back of his mind. He saw himself on his knees, looking up at his faceless master. The man stood above him as Garrick opened his mouth to a heavy cock. The salty taste of precum teased his tongue as hard flesh slid down his throat. The man’s hands clenched in his thick hair, tugging just past the edge of pain. He pushed himself deeper into Garrick’s mouth. Throat open wide, Garrick sucked and swallowed, taking as much as he could. He wanted to feel his nose buried in his master’s pubic hair. He wanted to please, needed to know he’d done well and satisfied the man, given him pleasure in order to be worthy to receive his own. He needed to taste creamy cum splashing across his tongue. “That’s it, my pet. Take it all. Take everything I give you,” a husky, unfamiliar voice crooned before the man cried out in pleasure and his cock pulsed in Garrick’s mouth and coated his tongue with his thick essence. As those words echoed in his mind along with the image, Garrick howled and emptied himself into the man beneath him. Spent, he pulled out and fell to his side in his huge, hand-carved bed. He fumbled with the condom, tossing it in a waste can nearby. He took two damp washcloths off the nightstand to finish cleaning up, handing the extra to the other man. The lupin turned

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to face him with a bright, well-pleasured grin as he wiped up and scrunched down under the thick, homemade quilt. Samuel, was it? God, how sick was that? He couldn’t even remember the man’s name. But he was just another one in a long line of lupin males queuing up for a chance at bedding and possibly mating the Alpha of the Greater Las Vegas area. Ever since he’d officially come out of the closet, every gay lupin in the country had poured into his city, damn power-hungry bastards for the most part. Too bad no one knew how much of his sexual desires still remained hidden. Being gay was the least of it, the acceptable part. Some areas of his private life the public didn’t need to know, couldn’t possibly tolerate. Too much was at stake. Definitely his position in the pack. Possibly his life, if it came down to a fight for supremacy. Garrick was strong, one of the strongest of his kind. He was bright, earning his master’s degree in business administration by the age of twenty-one human years. Since then he’d worked hard keeping his pack solvent, then comfortable, and finally one of the wealthiest in the country. His pack remained one of the strongest post-war groups in the para community and everyone knew he was the one responsible for their rapid recovery. That alone had protected his position when he revealed the fact that he was gay, something he’d hoped would satisfy the void inside his heart. He was still young but mature enough at the ripe old age of seventy-four human years. He had centuries ahead of him to rule and help his pack grow stronger, even more self-sufficient. Long, empty centuries expanding out before him. Centuries filled with a kind of half-life, where his days were full and productive while his nights stretched on with meaningless encounter after meaningless encounter. He shook his head. Shit, he hated when he got all maudlin. Bad sex did it to him every time. He heaved a deep sigh and rolled out of bed, narrowly avoiding the wet spot. He ran his fingers through his hair and over his face, willing away the exhaustion. Might as well take advantage of the insomnia and go over accounts. “Alpha?” Samuel laid a warm hand against his bare back, startling him. Garrick looked down at the man, regret and sorrow filling his heart. “I’ve got work to do. Pack issues that need addressing.” His excuse sounded hollow to his own ears and he knew Samuel heard the apology mixed with dismissal in his words. The lupin gave him a sad half-smile filled with disappointment. “I understand. We had a good time. Some of the best sex I’ve ever had.” He reached out and placed a kiss on the back of Garrick’s hand, rubbing his thumb absently across his knuckles. “You’re a good Alpha but I’m not your mate. Don’t worry. I understand that. I’m not going to turn into jilted stalker dude. Mating isn’t something anybody chooses. The bond’s either there or it’s not. If your wolf didn’t feel it after that marathon, it’s hopeless for us. I won’t push.” The man threw back the covers and started reaching for his clothes. Garrick eyed Samuel’s tight backside with genuine regret. He was a good man, the perfect choice to be his partner. He was handsome, kind, personable and bright. He didn’t have a power-

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hungry aura. He had a good sense of humor and they had many likes in common. He’d make a loyal mate and a solid addition to any pack. Why couldn’t he let go of his internal battle and just take Samuel? Why was fate mocking him like this? Samuel pursed his lips, shoulders slumped, and stared into space. For a moment Garrick feared he’d truly hurt the young man. But as he reached out for him Samuel shook his head, fine auburn strands dancing around his face, and reached into his pocket. “Hell, Alpha, don’t slap me down for this. I know it’s presumptuous but I like to think that even if we can’t stay lovers, we’ll remain friends. I might even move down here permanently anyway if my job interview goes well. So here,” he handed Garrick a worn, crinkled business card, “my sister gave me this a few months ago. She’s bit of a busybody, mated for several years with a couple of cubs. You know—the well-meaning type. Anyway, I think you might need it more than me. She says the company came highly recommended. A friend used it.” Garrick glanced down. www.divine_intervention.odd For the discriminating paranormal. He raised a single eyebrow. The other lupin refused to meet his gaze, giving an inordinate amount of concentration to buttoning his shirt. “It’s a matchmaking service, not an escort service or dating service. I mean, if all you want is a good screw I’m more than willing to be your fuck-buddy. I’m not one to refuse great sex. But I get the feeling you want something more. You deserve to find a real mate as much as anyone else. It might be worth a shot for you.” Garrick crumpled the card in his hand but didn’t toss it in the trash. It almost seemed warm in his palm. Pulsing. Alive. It held a touch of magic that tickled his lupin senses, making the fine hairs on his arm stand on end. Something to draw itself to someone in need? A compulsion spell or a tracking spell? Samuel slipped on his shoes, nodded and eased quietly out of the room. Online matchmaker, have I really sunk so low? Garrick plopped down on the bed again, raking the fingers of one hand through his hair again. He stared down at the innocuous little card. Samuel meant well but he should toss it. Only losers resorted to computer dating services. Right? He hadn’t reached that point yet. Had he? It couldn’t hurt to look, could it? a small, needy voice whispered in his head. Go online and check it out. No one would be the wiser. No one would see it as a weakness. Just a little idle curiosity is all. What harm is there? If anyone did find out, you were checking up on the service before another pack member used it. Before he could dwell on it any more he walked over to his desk and flicked on his laptop. In seconds his wireless connection had him looking at an easy-to-navigate 8

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website with an introduction banner scrolling up the screen, reminding him of the opening scene of his favorite sci-fi movie. Are you still searching for that one true love? The one who will make your blood throb in your veins while leaving your heart aching to be near? Divine Intervention is dedicated to the paranormal of the twenty-first century. For a chance to make a true connection, for a meaningful relationship, we’re the first step. We are a guaranteed private service, using state-of-the-art matchmaking programs, psychological testing and magical aids. If the years stretch out ahead of you like a long, lonely road and you’re ready to find that perfect fit, your perfect mate, contact us. Take the leap. Just fill out our easy online questionnaire to start the process. One of our representatives will contact you for a one-on-one interview and the rest will be taken care of by our highly trained professionals. Stop counting on fate to guide you. Create your own destiny. The screen faded into a simple registration form. Garrick didn’t allow for second thoughts, his fingers flying over the keys, filling out the basic information. When he finished typing, Garrick stared at the blinking cursor on the screen. Do I or don’t I? Am I that desperate? What the hell do I think I’m doing? But he ached, deep and bleeding. So damn lonely. And they guaranteed privacy. He couldn’t ask for more. He was tired of hiding that integral part of himself, tired of lying to himself and the world around him. He needed, needed more than he had. Needed to let someone else take control, if only for a few stolen moments. But was this the way? Should he risk outside help? Was this a safe option? He reached down, laying a hand on his heavy cock, swollen and hurting. A small drop of precum glistened at the tip like a tiny, desperate tear. A man couldn’t die of a terminal hard-on but life without satisfying sexual contact sure as hell wasn’t comfortable. Garrick hit send.

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Chapter Two Renee pursed her lips as she watched the video of Zachary interviewing their newest client. A tall, good-looking, powerful man sat facing her husband. With thick black hair and pale blue eyes the color of steel or a jagged bolt of lightning, most of her clients would take one look at the man and beg her for a match. Add that to his obvious good nature and nice manners and you couldn’t see any reason why he wouldn’t get anyone he wanted, male or female, in his bed. But he had his baggage to deal with, a little sexual landmine that made his being gay seem inconsequential in comparison. Now here was a challenge, someone who couldn’t get by without their help. Nothing too difficult for them to handle but she could understand the man’s trepidation. This was a problem she could help solve, giving aid to a nice guy. Who’d have thought the Alpha of the Greater Las Vegas area lupin pack was a closet sexual submissive? That bit of news wouldn’t go over well if it became common knowledge. To make matters more interesting for a matchmaker, he was a completely untrained submissive. He knew what he wanted, needed and fantasized about but had never had anyone he trusted enough with his secret to teach him the ropes. Or to use the ropes on him, Renee thought with a smirk. Okay, that was an unkind thought but really, in her business you had to keep your sense of humor. There was too much grief and heartache in the world to deal with otherwise. Not to mention, the mental image was just plain hot. “So what do you think?” Renee dragged her eyes off the screen. Speaking of hot—Zachary stood in the doorway with arms and ankles crossed, one hip leaning against the frame. Renee looked over at her husband and felt her breath catch, just like always. Thick curly brown hair that barely hid the tiny nubs of his horns swept across one of his golden-brown eyes. The goat half of his body was hidden by a version of the spell Renee had cast when they’d first met, to help him blend with the human population. But the wide, brawny chest was pure Zachary—strong, surprisingly hairless and entirely lickable. And that mischievous little smile permanently attached to his face made Renee think of all the lascivious things the man had done to her body and would do in the future. Ten years together and Zachary still made Renee’s heart race.

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“It’s an interesting case,” she replied, prying her eyes from her lover to look at a photo of their newest client. Zachary stalked forward, bracing a hand on Renee’s shoulder. He peered down at the picture. “So what are your thoughts?” Renee pushed back the urge to spin around in her chair and kiss the living daylights out of her husband. Time enough for that when they were off the clock. She tapped the photo with one finger, listing his requirements. “Obviously, he needs an experienced dominant, someone who can help him work through his initiation into the lifestyle. He needs someone he can trust, who knows enough to take good care of a submissive, not abuse a person still insecure with his sexual preferences.” “But Garrick’s not willing to come out to any other lupin.” “Can you blame him?” Renee gave a humorless laugh, already getting up and heading to the filing cabinets lining the other side of the room. “One sign of weakness and he’ll be challenged for leadership over and over again. Odds are eventually someone will get lucky. If he sucked as a leader I wouldn’t have a problem with that. But rumor has it he’s one of the best the wolves have seen in a long while, maybe since before the Para Wars.” She pulled open a drawer and started pushing boxes and files out of her way. “He’s not power hungry, wanting to conquer more territory. He doesn’t take advantage of the power he already has. He keeps a close eye on pack wealth and makes sure the money gets to the ones who truly need it. He’s willing to put himself on the line for those too weak to protect themselves. From beta to omega, no one has a word to say against the man. He’s got the making of a great ruler, the kind who could pull his race out of endangered species status.” Renee knew what she said ran parallel to Zachary’s thoughts. He pursed his lips and stared off into space. “So we’re going to have to look outside his race.” “Does he have a problem with that? He’s young enough that I wouldn’t think he’d hold any of the old hatreds but you never can tell. Any interspecies prejudices we should consider? He doesn’t hold any leftover grudges against the non-human paras?” She slammed closed the first drawer and opened the second drawer. She shoved several small, wooden boxes out of the way, looking for just the right one. Zachary watched her, not offering to help. He didn’t dare mess with her version of organization. “No, he just wants to steer clear of other shifters. And because of his position, if he picks someone from another species, he should be able to handle any outrage. Of course, a non-human paranormal might cause him some difficulty, but I have a feeling he’d be willing to fight that battle.” Renee nodded to herself and pulled out a box made of plain, unadorned ebony. Running her fingers over it, she tripped a secret hinge and let it spring open. From inside she grabbed a deck of bright red index cards. Each card had the picture, name and contact information of a dom who’d applied with Divine Intervention for matches,

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preferably male. She flipped through the cards, pulling out all shifters and putting them back in the box before she turned to Zachary again. She shuffled the deck, grinning at her husband. “I say we let destiny take it from here. With luck, his lifemate has already registered with us and this will be an easy match. Another long-term romance for the God and Goddess to enjoy and another happy client.” Zachary laughed and shook his head. “Right, like you wouldn’t enjoy the chance to whip up some experimental spell to encourage his destined mate to take advantage of our company.” “The choice of who a lifemate is might be up to the God and Goddess but that doesn’t mean their stubborn paranormal children don’t need a nudge now and then.” Renee glanced up, shooting her husband a coy glance and smirk. “I mean, look what I had to do to get you to move your furry ass out of Otherworld to find me.” Rolling his eyes, Zachary still blew a kiss to his beloved. “And you’ll never let me forget my shortsightedness. Not that I didn’t have to work that same furry ass off to be allowed to stay with you. And remember, if I want to stay here with you, we have to keep helping others find their destined mates. So how about you stay focused, love? Every satisfied customer is another reason for the God and Goddess to trust their decision to allow me to stay in the mortal realm.” “Right.” Renee made her way to a low oval table by the office’s single window. Stars and a crescent moon shined down on them from the sky through the small glass dome in the ceiling. Renee dimmed the electric lights. She sat cross-legged on one short, plush seat while Zachary took the opposite. Placing the cards to the side for a moment, she took a single wooden match out of a jar and lit all the incense sticks she kept in a dragon-shaped holder sitting in the middle of the table. It was a special mixture of her own creation. Sweet pea and violet for divination, cinnamon and vanilla for love, hibiscus and patchouli for lust, a pinch of hyacinth for happiness and a bit of sage to help with the granting of wishes. She closed her eyes and took a deep cleansing breath. Clearing her mind, she focused on a mental picture of Garrick Rhine, handsome and strong yet edged with a secret, searing pain. She imagined the sound of his voice, deep and sure but with that slight hint of desperation lingering beneath his words. She picked up the stack and fanned the cards out in front of her. Lightly, Renee ran her fingers over each one, making pass after pass. Each time she let her fingertips graze the cards she noted which ones felt warm, tingly to the touch. She pulled those from the deck, fanned them out and repeated the process. Finally she found the one card that pulsed with magic and connection. She left it facedown, holding her palm against it and absorbing the pulsating warmth. When she was certain that this was the right choice, the one that was meant to be, she opened her eyes. “Well?” Zachary asked, never the patient one in the partnership. He was all about instant gratification.

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Renee flipped the card over and bit back a mild curse. “Now that’s unexpected.” Zachary gave a low whistle. “I don’t know if I should be glad to get him matched up and out of our hair or if I should pity what destiny has in store for our sweet, unsuspecting wolf.” “I don’t know,” Renee mused, pulling herself out of the first wave of shock to look beyond the obvious obstacles and at the possibilities. “Put that attitude of his, that gigantic chip on his shoulder, to the side and he’s a solid choice. Yes, the species issue will come up but hopefully we read the lupin right. He won’t care what Garrick is, as long as he fits into his life, becomes a strong sub. And if Garrick’s mate is going to have to deal with the pack all the time, he’ll need a certain level of attitude, power and political savvy. He has that in spades. Plus, I doubt you’ll find many more experienced doms out there.” “I guess you’re right,” Zachary agreed, if not wholeheartedly. He remembered the Wars firsthand. He knew there were strong factions among the non-human paras who would never let go of their hostilities, who hoped for the return of the conflicts, just as existed with some human para. But he was willing to look for a bright side. Fate had done well for Renee and him, no matter that they’d been on opposing sides during the conflict. And they’d never failed with matching a couple before. He and Renee were a perfect example of how well the God and Goddess knew their people. So there had to be more here than met the eye. “If Garrick wants to keep up appearances, this one can protect himself while he doesn’t look the part of the dominant in the relationship. If it weren’t for the piercing and clothing choices, most people wouldn’t give him a second glance. I’ve never met anyone more adept at casting a glamour.” After a moment of deep deliberation, Renee put the card back on the table. “Then we’re agreed. This is the match.” Zachary nodded, hopping to his feet. “I’ll call The Keep. This time of night, that’ll be where we’ll find Faolan.”

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Chapter Three The Keep, a premier paranormal and invitation-only BDSM club located two miles off the Strip, was filled to the brim with hot little subs and highly sought-after doms. Some came together as couples to enjoy an evening out by themselves or to partake in a scene with others. Some came looking for someone new to play with, a new experience, maybe even someone they could find more than an evening of pleasure with. Those looking to connect tended to stick to the main room, waiting to go to one of the many specialty areas after they hooked up with their lover of the night. But those who desired a particular kink for the evening went straight to the stairs or the rooms at the back. Completely stocked private rooms, reservation-only, lined the second floor. The basement held a fully functional dungeon done up in medieval décor with both private and public rooms. But the rooms on the first floor, coming off the main area, were reserved for the voyeurs and the exhibitionists. Each had a different atmosphere, with different toys, props and soundtracks to complement it. Each held its own spice, its own appeal. It was the third room that was the most popular with the clientele. Known tonguein-cheek as Goth Central, moans and the sound of slapping flesh filled the air. The smell of old and new sex mixed with the spice of incense. Red and black colored every wall, every piece of furniture, every toy and prop. Faux electric sconces filled the room with dim, flickering light. High arching ceilings and baroque architectural flavor punctuated the ambiance. This room pounded with the heavy beat of hard rock, punk and techno tunes. “More, Master, please give me more. I’ve been bad. I’ve been bad,” a female vampire tied to the far wall cried out to the man behind her, her fangs flashing in the dim light. “Begging already? We’ve barely even started. You’re such a little pain slut, aren’t you, sweetness?” He let the tails of his flogger caress her faintly marked back. “You want more, slave? Beg for it. I love hearing my slave beg.” “Please, Master, please,” the woman whimpered, jerking against her bonds and bowing her back into the soft leather sliding across her skin. “I want it so much.” “But is this about what you want or what you need?” He flicked the tails in a short burst of strikes against her bare ass. The woman’s skin reddened beneath the onslaught but didn’t mark. “Remember, I decide what you need and whether or not you get it.” The woman cried out, her hands closing over the ropes holding her to the wall. “Please, Master, I need to come. Harder so I can come.”

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“But I don’t want you to come yet, my sweet little slave. This isn’t about you. If I haven’t come yet, why should I let you?” The woman took a deep breath and stomped one foot, reining herself in. Her master paused and stepped forward. He brushed her hair aside and murmured in her ear. The woman whimpered softly but nodded. Her master smiled and gave her sweat-soaked cheek a soft caress before stepping behind her again. Arm rearing back, he gave her another round of strikes. Faolan took a deep, satisfied breath as he watched the tableau. He stretched his iridescent blue, purple and red wings. The sterling steel rings lining the top and tips jingled together like tinkling chimes caught in a gusting wind as he pulled the last delicate membrane free from his tattoo. He took a strip of black leather from around his wrist and tied back his fine, hip-length blond hair. He knew he looked good shirtless in his tight, low-hanging, black leather pants and calf-length biker boots. His wings framed the picture to perfection. He kept himself lean and fit, with his various piercings adding a hint of badass to his delicate, Otherworldly beauty. Couple that with his reputation as one of the most experienced doms in the city and unaccompanied subs began gathering around him in waves. Home. This was home, or as close to the feeling as he had in the mortal realm. He owned a nice house outside town where he worked on his art but even his bright, airy studio felt empty compared to this dungeon filled with wanton flesh and easy lust. Unfortunately The Keep could only be his home for a few stolen moments in time. His was a solitary existence, just shy of true emptiness. Faolan shook himself with a grimace. Screw lonely. Gotta dungeon full of willing and unaccompanied subs to choose from, each one needing direction and a firm hand. Not a damn reason to feel lonely here. But it had been six months since he’d signed up with that company Aindreas suggested, seeing his friend’s growing ennui. The elf thought Faolan needed true love, or at least a long-term D/s relationship. So what if Aindreas had known him for nearly a couple of centuries? That didn’t mean his friend knew everything. He could continue on as he had without a partner and be perfectly happy, or at least content. With his background with the Fae court, Faolan had plenty of practice. But still, why hadn’t they contacted him by now? Okay, his particular sexual proclivities weren’t the norm but subs generally outnumbered doms, even male subs to male doms. There had to be some subs who signed up with Divine Intervention. And while Faolan considered himself to be a unique commodity, or oddity if you asked other members of his flighty flower-loving race, surely Divine Intervention had someone who fit his requirements and could fit in his life. Someone who fit him. The whole thing sucked. Like that sweet little pixie kneeling on the floor looked like he could suck so good. He’d be enough to make any man forget his troubles for the night. With that lush

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mouth and those hard muscles he’d be a pleasurable distraction. And Faolan would make a much nicer punishment for him than the incubus in the corner eyeing the poor thing. He had a rough reputation, more than the pixie’s master bargained for. His master would have to step in and that would defeat the scene he was trying to set for his little pet. Rubbing his thighs together and adjusting himself to ease the growing ache beneath tight leather, Faolan stepped farther into the room to offer his services, only to be stopped by a tentative hand on his arm. He glared down at the interruption. The tiny djinn server took a step back but didn’t leave. Instead he bowed his dark head and held out a silver tray with a cordless phone sitting on a crisp white cloth in the center. “My apologies for interrupting your evening pleasures but there is an important phone call for you, Master. A Master Zachary. He said that you awaited his call and that it was a matter of utmost importance.” A wicked smile spread across Faolan’s delicate but sharply carved features. Well, speak of the devil, or satyr in this case. It looked like his boring life might be taking a turn for the better. Still, there was one thing he had to do before leaving. “Tell him I’ll return his call in a moment.” The djinn nodded and moved to stand in a small alcove. Stepping up to get a closer look at the pixie, he eyed the crowd until he found the one person looking on with a proprietary gaze. Faolan laid a single hand on the pixie’s head, petting him absently as he observed the other man scrutinize his every move. When he was certain, he left the pixie to speak with his master. The man lifted a glass toward the pixie. “Do you want a turn?” he asked, the possessive gleam in his eye barely masked. “I hope you have a clear set of rules?” The man smiled, relaxing ever so slightly. Another type of para probably wouldn’t have even noticed the small tell. “Of course. All the better to punish my pet while keeping him safe.” Faolan gave a quick bow of his head in response. “I’m not here for a turn, though I appreciate the offer. If I didn’t have business to take care of I might ask to join the two of you. I have a feeling it would be an experience not lightly missed. Instead, master to master, I thought I’d give you a warning.” A single brow lifted at his words. “Oh?” “The incubus in the corner’s name is Ryncu.” The man looked over where Faolan gestured, his eyes narrowing. “He’s been watching your pet for some time. He’s got a nasty reputation for permanent damage, mental and physical. Ask around before dealing with him.” The other master’s eyes started glowing as he took in the incubus, a slight buildup of magic. “Thank you for your warning. I’ll consider this a debt between us.”

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Faolan nodded as he stepped back to give the angry warlock a respectful measure of space. “Just have fun and keep your little one safe. He looks like a true treasure.” A genuine and warm smile parted the other master’s lips and the magic pulses subsided a bit. “Oh, he most definitely is. My favorite treasure, one I wouldn’t share at all if it weren’t for the fact he enjoyed it so.” Faolan glance back and saw the pixie’s eyes were locked on his master. The heat in that gaze could melt steel. If only he had someone to look at him with such utter love and lust. God and Goddess, he hoped Divine Intervention could find him that.

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Chapter Four Garrick nervously eyed the door to the bar and pool hall, with its darkened and barred windows. He’d been to Silver Cavern before, if not often. Well known in the paranormal community as an “open” bar whose owners were a lesbian couple who also happened to be feline shifters, Silver Cavern was patronized by both human and paras of all sexual orientations. Considered completely neutral ground, the patrons knew how to be selectively blind. No one in the para community wanted to be outed to the humans so they kept to themselves and didn’t bother each other. Here he had no reason to panic. But he hadn’t expected a response from Divine Intervention to come so quickly. He’d thought he’d have weeks to really screw up his courage before taking the plunge. But Zachary said they had the perfect match on file already. Their psych profiles matched. Their sexual appetites matched. Every fucking thing seemed to match. Even the company’s special magic picked this man from dozens of other candidates. He was a well-respected master, a dom who’d been practicing for centuries. That was all the information they would give in case either party decided to back out before the actual meeting. He’d know his date by the bronze cuff with stylized “D I” carved on it that he’d be wearing, a match for the one weighing heavily on Garrick’s right wrist. Centuries? Not many human para live centuries. Maybe he’s vamp. He could be more exotic, like a djinn or an incubus. Even a non-human para like that would be better than another lupin. I made it clear I wanted no lupins. To be on the safe side, I hope they avoided shifters all together. No way to know for sure except to go in. Garrick squared his shoulders, bringing himself up to his full height. The man needed to know what he was getting. Someone completely untrained and with an attitude to boot. Someone who needed to be put in his place and screwed into the floor. A bad boy who deserved to be punished oh so well and oh so long. Someone in control of his everyday life but yearning to turn over that control in the bedroom. A crooked smile twisted Garrick’s full lips as he slapped his palms against the door and stepped into the gloom. The bouncer, not as big as Garrick, stepped forward to card him. Garrick snorted but reached for his wallet. As old as he was and still getting carded. As he fished for his ID he took the time to close his eyes and sniff. The majority of the patrons reeked of bland humanity. Several para, some he couldn’t quite place the species of. The only shifter was a fox hanging to the back of the room. She probably wouldn’t stick around long with Garrick coming in. They might be wearing their human faces but foxes had

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little love or trust for any predator. And whatever his sexual inclinations, Garrick was first and foremost the strongest wolf in his pack. No other shifter could mistake that. The bouncer handed him back his ID. Garrick gave him an absent nod and then started scanning the crowd for the gleam of bronze. He wandered by the pool tables, where he caught a hint of para. A vampire played the pool shark against a group of unsuspecting humans. A few hundred years of practice could make for one hell of a player. He was cute in his way, if you were into the tall, slightly emaciated guys with hardcore auras. He liked the hardcore part but wanted his man with a bit more meat on his bones. Anorexia was a major turnoff for someone his size. Since the vamp wore no bronze cuff, it wasn’t an issue. He made his way to the dance floor and watched with a wistful gaze. Male and female bodies in several different pairings and a few trios writhed and gyrated against each other to the pulsing beat of some new punk song as spinning, multicolored spotlights flashed. But no one seemed to be alone and he saw no bronze. Damn, he hoped his hook-up hadn’t had second thoughts. He finally made his way to the bar in the back, a dark oak affair with shiny fake gold bars for your feet and deep red leather bumpers for your elbows. Two men sat perched there, both delicate, with the darker man taller than the blond by a good four inches but still shorter than Garrick’s own six-foot-three-inch frame. Here was a scent that he couldn’t quite place but since they were a couple he guessed it didn’t matter. He sat one chair over from the slight blond man, marveling that anyone would have the patience to keep up with a hip-length mane. Especially someone with as many facial piercings as this guy had. Made a man wonder what else was pierced. As Garrick ordered his beer the blond glanced at him, his green gaze widening slightly before he shot Garrick a twisted smile and spun his barstool toward him. “Not what I expected but not bad at all.” The blond crossed his legs and arms. He tapped his perfectly manicured pointer finger against his thin lips as he considered Garrick. “My, my. Shifter, right? My guess—canine of some kind. Wolf?” Garrick stiffened, turning to slap the man down, a growl forming deep in his chest. He wasn’t here to be hit on by some punk looking for a threesome, no matter how tasty he looked. If his date would show already, he’d be out of here. But he swallowed his annoyance as his eyes caught on the blond’s drink in his opposite hand, a bronzeencased wrist swirling the glass with an easy twirl. The guy laughed at Garrick’s amazed gaze, setting the cuff spinning with a twist of his wrist. “Not what you were expecting either, I see. Well, if you could’ve found me on your own, you wouldn’t have gone online. Still, I’ll have to have a stern talk with Zachary about his lack of warning.” The deep, rich, round tone of his voice sent shivers down Garrick’s body. He slid his gaze over to look at the face of this unlikely dom. With sharp but delicate features, the other man had gleaming green eyes and a lush, coral-pink mouth that broke the

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creamy, pale skin. A bar stabbed through one brow and a hoop through the other while a succession of rings climbed both ears. And his scent flowed like a sweet spring breeze, a thousand different flowers, every sweet, mouthwatering dish that ever tempted a man. God, what was he? It was on the tip of Garrick’s tongue, coiling there like fragrant wildflower honey. “I think you’ve struck him dumb, Faolan.” The other man chuckled, leaning around to look at Garrick. “And he’s definitely untrained. I believe he’s ignoring your first question entirely. Not very obedient if you ask me.” The man licked his lips and gave Garrick a lascivious wink. “He’s going to be work but he might just be worth the effort.” The blond, Faolan, turned his attention to the dark man beside him. “I’ll be certain to work with him on his behavior and response time but allowances must be made for his novice condition. And that, my friend, is a discussion for a more private place between only the two of us.” With that dismissal he turned back to Garrick, focusing his entire attention on him. “Zachary told me a little of your need for privacy if not the reasoning. But Aindreas is right. You haven’t answered me and that isn’t a good starting point for our type of relationship. So let’s try again, shall we? What are you exactly?” “Lupin,” Garrick answered, voice catching in his throat. The man’s undivided attention felt like a weight against his skin. His wolf quivered under the pressure, fighting against uttering a supplicant whimper. The Alpha in him didn’t like the feeling but that didn’t stop the blood starting to pool in his cock. “Good.” A bright smile graced Faolan’s face. The tightening of Garrick’s muscles eased with Faolan’s obvious pleasure. Faolan put his elbows on the bar, bracing his chin on laced fingers and cocking his head to the side. “Wondering what I am? Am I driving your poor little nose mad?” “Yes,” Garrick replied, feeling like an idiot for his one-word answers. But something about the man had struck him dumb. Hopefully it wasn’t a permanent condition. “Then I suggest we move this to a more private area.” Faolan stood and started walking across the room, not bothering to look back. Obviously a man used to being obeyed without question. The one called Aindreas quirked Garrick a quick grin before following. Garrick placed a hand on his quivering stomach, grabbed his beer and hurried after them. The two staked out a private corner booth, walled in on three sides. Faolan scooted across the red leather to the middle while his friend Aindreas stood leaning against the wall. Garrick spared the man a quick glance before scooting in after Faolan but Aindreas’ face remained impassive. He turned to his date, who was raking him with his eyes.

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“Very nice. Very nice indeed.” His voice remained steady even as he reached out with one finger to trace Garrick’s cheekbone. “You keep yourself in good shape, puppy. Strong and intelligent. Probably pretty high up in the pack hierarchy. But we’ll spare those questions for later, after we’ve gotten to know each other better. How about we start with your name?” He took a quick swig of his beer and licked his lips before answering. “Garrick Rhine.” “Mmm, Garrick. Nice, manly name that.” Faolan tilted his head and gifted Garrick with another room-brightening smile. “Do you have anything to ask me? This is one time when I give my permission for you to ask anything at all.” “What are you?” Garrick breathed without a second thought. He hated not knowing something as basic as that. He should be able to tell. He was a fucking Alpha and he couldn’t place the man’s species? Faolan’s smile widened, reflecting his obvious amusement at Garrick’s discomfort. He flicked a strand of hair behind his ear and shrugged. “Not the type of question I expected but reasonable. What do you think I am? What does that lovely nose of yours tell you? Talk it through and maybe I’ll give you a hint.” Garrick closed his eyes again and tried to make sense of the strange scent. “Not vamp or shifter. There’s a hint of magic to your scent but it’s smoother than a witch’s, more natural.” He took another deep breath, savoring his aroma—rolling it across his tongue. “I’ve never smelled anything as sweet, like a fresh breeze on a spring day.” His eyes snapped wide open as an unlikely answer occurred to him. “Fae. I’ve never met one but I’ve heard the old ones say that the Fae smell like blooming flowers on a summer breeze.” Faolan nodded with approval. “The season depends on many things but a fresh breeze would be sufficient. Quite a tasty temptation to taunt a shifter palate.” Fae, the strongest and most numerous of the para clans fighting on the other side during the Wars. Shifter children were still told scary bedtime stories about the frightening Fae and all they were capable of doing to the unwary. To make matters worse, there were so many different types of Fae. Some were wonderful, beautiful creatures, the type who moved mortals to create gorgeous pieces of art and inspired ancient ballads. Some were dark, evil and completely deadly, moving mankind to jealousy and genocide. All were at the core mischievous creatures who at one time hated those para who grew out of human stock. And this was to be his dom, a man he would trust his well-being to? “What kind?” Faolan’s eyes sparkled darkly as his brows furrowed ever so slightly. He glanced at his friend, who nodded and mumbled under his breath. Faolan started unbuttoning his shirt. Garrick blinked in surprise. Was the Fae going to strip for him in the middle of the bar with humans present? He looked around to see who else was watching. Someone 21

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else had to be seeing this hot guy peeling his clothes off. But no one paid the slightest bit of attention to Garrick’s table, not even the waitstaff who checked other tables but never glanced their way. “It’s why I brought Aindreas with me.” Faolan pulled his shirt off his shoulders. He nodded to his still-mumbling friend, who was now making strange hand gestures along with his words. “Elves are amazing at convincing others that there’s nothing to be seen. Leaves me free to drop my own glamours. From what little the satyr told me, you were concerned about privacy. It’s my job as your dom to take care of your needs as you see to my pleasure.” “Yes,” Garrick practically hissed as Faolan’s sweet scent wrapped around him and he caught his first glimpse of Faolan’s body. Strong, well-defined muscles appeared from beneath the silk. His sweet nipples stood hard and straining against the metal rings piercing them. Faolan caught his glance and smirked. “Don’t worry. They’re platinum, not silver. They shouldn’t bother you when I’m pressed against your skin or when you tease them with your tongue.” Then he lifted his hair to flow down over his shoulder, covering his chest as he turned his back to Garrick. “Now, what do you think I am?” Garrick wrinkled his brow but scooted closer as a gleam on the man’s back drew his attention. Two rows of rings marched seemingly haphazardly in the flesh below Faolan’s shoulders. But then his back caught the light just right and caught Garrick’s breath at the same time. He resisted the urge to touch the beauty spread before him. Butterfly wings tattooed the entirety of his back, the top edges lined with the metal rings. Light blue in the center, growing to a deep blue in the middle to a dark purple at the edges. Flecks of red surrounded by thin lines of black and gold bled throughout. “Faerie,” Garrick breathed, almost sitting on his hands to control his urge to touch. “And not the type of faerie you expected I’m sure.” Faolan chuckled as he let his hair fall back and he reached for his shirt. Garrick couldn’t help but smile and relax a bit. A bloodthirsty monster couldn’t laugh at himself so easily, could he? “Now that I’ve shown you mine, so to speak, how about you show me yours? Zachary told me that you wanted to explore your submissive side. Tell me a bit about that.” Garrick thought for a moment, unsure of how to proceed and uncomfortable actually talking about it. Hide it, yeah. Talking about it made him fidget. “What do you want to know? I told Zachary that I hadn’t had any real-life experience so I’m not certain what to tell you.” “Exactly that. What makes you think you’re ready to step into the lifestyle, without any experience to back it up? Why do you think you’re a submissive as opposed to someone who just wants to mess around with role-playing?” Garrick trembled, uncertain and not liking the feeling one little bit. He’d never put a voice to his dark, perverse desires before. Even when talking to Zachary, he hadn’t gone 22

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into much detail, just the basics of his situation. Now he had to tell a total stranger everything he hid inside, open up completely? Faolan arched one of his delicate blond brows. “It starts with trust, my friend.” He reached out for Garrick’s hand and gave it a supportive squeeze. “If you want us to go anywhere, explore what it is you feel you need, it starts here. I must know you’re serious. I can’t help you if I can’t understand you, your desires and your limits. Without that knowledge, I’ll never be a proper master for you. Anyone claiming to be a dom who says otherwise is a complete asshole. So tell me, where did it start for you?” Garrick licked his dry lips. Unspoken desires rose in waves, building up to the breaking point. “At first it was a vague feeling of dissatisfaction—a yearning for something more during sex, stronger sensation. I’ve always had domination and submission fantasies. It’s in the blood, wolf and pack and all. The struggle for dominance factors deeply in the psyche of my breed. So I wrote any random fantasy off as my wolf side putting in his two cents’ worth. And I always ignored the fact that in my fantasies I wasn’t in the dominant role.” Faolan nodded, complete attention focused on Garrick. “For a wolf, life is about showing your submission to those stronger than you and caring for or culling out the weak. Why does it disturb you that the same behavior is cropping up in your sex life?” Pulling away from Faolan and rubbing his palms against his thighs, Garrick forced himself to take the risk and open up about the root of his problem. He consoled himself by thinking if the man told anyone else, he’d rip out his throat no matter how damn sexy a throat it was. “I’m not any other wolf in the pack. I’m Alpha.” He gave a self-deprecating laugh. “And not just any Alpha—I’m the youngest Alpha to lead a pack the size of Las Vegas, ever. I’m risking my life and the future of my pack here. That’s how serious this is to me.” Faolan showed no surprise. Instead he reached out and placed his hand on Garrick’s again. “Coming into this lifestyle is never easy. There’s self-doubt, guilt and anger. Your particular public persona makes it all the harder, dangerous even. But it also explains a possible root for your feelings. It’s not uncommon for a man or woman in a position of great power to want to let someone else take control in the bedroom. They find it a release.” His words offered some comfort but still couldn’t thaw the chill building in the pit of Garrick’s stomach. “So what do we do now?” The faerie grinned, his musical laugh flowing out around them. “What, you expect me to throw you over my shoulder and carry you off to my dungeon already? That would take Aindreas’ help and might still cause a hernia. You’re not exactly a small man. Might be tempting and if you were an experienced sub I’d probably give it a shot. There’s something to be said about the whole capture fantasy. It can be a hell of an experience if played out right. But I think we should take things slower for your first time.”

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“Slower how?” Faolan shrugged, staring at the ceiling with pursed lips. “Oh, I don’t know. Maybe go on a date like a normal vanilla couple, get to know each other and find out if we even get along with one another. Can you honestly tell me that you’d trust me to tie you down and have my wicked way with you after having just met me? You don’t look dumb enough to blindly accept Divine Intervention’s decision, fate and all that, without question.” Faolan gave him a heated look. “I don’t see any problems on my side but you should know what you’re getting into. And whether you come out to the world about your bedroom habits or not, people will see us out together. They’ll need to get used to the mixed-couple thing. Might as well start out the same way we plan to end.” Garrick chuckled, leaning back to relieve the pressure of his growing cock against his tight jeans. All this talk about capture fantasies and being tied up was wreaking havoc on his libido. And the earlier peepshow hadn’t helped either. “You know how long it’s been since I’ve been on a simple date? Ever since I took over as pack Alpha every unmated female lupin within driving distance has been at my door waiting for a chance to bed me and enter the lotto to be the Alpha bitch. When I came out about my sexual preference I expected that to stop. Instead it just switched to a never-ending line of guys wanting a secure place in my pack. Who needs to waste time dating?” Again Faolan’s musical chuckle rang out his amusement. “Sounds like I’m going to have my work cut out with you then—nice, strong, healthy ego to work with but a slight bit spoiled. I’ve got lots of new and wonderful experiences to expose you to. Are you free tomorrow night?” Garrick nodded, the butterflies filling his stomach again. Damn, he was acting like some simpering omega. But here he sat, staring at a punked-out faerie, someone he wouldn’t normally give a second glance, and finding himself completely turned-on by the idea of giving that same man total control. Who’d have thought? Faolan smiled, his entire face glowing with pleasure. “Good. Meet me at Club Rojo in the Romany Casino at nine o’clock. We’ll go dancing then have dinner. I’ll make the reservations for both. Anything you hate or are allergic to?” At first Garrick felt his wolf’s hackles rise at the man’s high-handed assumptions but he realized this was just a small step toward giving up some of his hard-earned power and control. If he couldn’t let Faolan choose the restaurant they ate at, how could he expect to let down his guard during something as intimate as sex? “I’m not big on the leafy greens so none of those trendy vegan places. But if it’s meat, I’ll eat it.” Faolan’s smile grew wicked. His eyes darkened and locked on Garrick’s mouth. “Oh, you can be sure that I’ll remember that.” Blood rushed to Garrick’s face, only to slam back down and pool in his hardening cock. Damn, one look and a few words. The powers help him when he got in bed with the man. Thank the God and Goddess for shifter stamina. He had a feeling he’d need it.

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“So nine o’clock it is,” Faolan continued, either not noticing or ignoring Garrick’s preoccupation. “But there is one more thing I want to get out of this meeting, before we waste our time going any further.” “Yes?” Faolan pounced across the bench, his fingers digging deep into Garrick’s dark, thick hair. His mouth slammed down, the pressure almost painful until Garrick parted his lips for him with a whine. Pressure eased and Faolan’s tongue slid into Garrick, surprising him with the faint taste of metal from yet another piercing. Faolan ran the stud along the edge of Garrick’s teeth before plunging inside to explore, to claim. To master. Garrick leaned further into the kiss, whimpering and clutching at the faerie’s shoulders. The taste of the other man filled him like golden honey, addictive. He lost himself and practically crawled into Faolan’s lap as the faerie’s tongue took up a heavy, distinctive rhythm. To have Faolan plunge inside his ass in the same manner…shit. Shit. Could he take it? Would he survive it? Could he live without feeling it? As abruptly as he started the kiss, Faolan ended it. He pulled back, gently guiding Garrick away from him. He smoothed his hair and adjusted his shirt, giving Garrick a moment to regain his composure. Faolan licked his lips as if savoring the remaining flavor of Garrick on his mouth, then ran his stud against his own teeth. “Yes, I think you’ll do quite nicely.” He shimmied out of the booth to stand next to his friend. “Definitely worth the wait. I’m looking forward to getting to know you even better.” Garrick ran a hand through his own hair, trying to ignore the fine tremor in his fingers. What the hell was a man like Faolan doing signing up with a computer dating service? It didn’t make sense. All he’d have to do is go to the right club and curl his finger. The punk look aside, after a single taste any guy with half a brain would be running for him. “I know my issues, why I went to Divine Intervention. What are you getting out of this?” Faolan ran his eyes up and down Garrick’s motionless body, stopping on the large bulge of Garrick’s cock straining to break free of its denim prison. He licked his lips before forming a lascivious grin. “Why, you of course. I’m getting you, all to myself.”

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Chapter Five Cool, wildflower-scented air flowed through the woods in a gentle breeze. The sound of soft bells sang a sweet melody, greeting the day. A warm sun shone down through the dappled silver leaves of golden-barked trees. And few soft pink clouds dotted a brilliant violet sky. All was perfect and serene in Otherworld. But still the queen of all Fae’s displeasure radiated through the glade and shattered the placid aura. Queen Odelina lay nude in the soft grass, a trio of pixies braiding flowers in her long russet locks. An elf maid knelt at her side, gently rubbing fragrant oils into her pale, unblemished skin. But none of this focus on her satisfaction could soften the vibrating tension that filled Odelina. Her emerald eyes crackled with irritation as the Fae male bowing at her bare feet completed his report from her council. “So you mean to tell me that after decades of research you can find no way for me to break the Peace Accord without breaking my personal oath?” she snapped, hand curling against the urge to slap her son. “Not directly, Majesty.” Her son kept kneeling, without even raising his head at the sound of her displeasure. “The wording of the Accord is very clear and precise. Any move by you or those you claim as your own would be considered a direct breach of your oath. As such, you would be held personally accountable and would be expected to forfeit your throne and powers.” “This is unacceptable.” She slammed her fist on the ground and snarled, sending the elf maid scurrying away. She was queen of all the Fae. She should never feel this impotent rage. Her will and power were absolute. “There must be a way around it, some loophole. It was never my intention for this cessation to be permanent. I only needed enough time for my people to regroup and recover before we attacked again, wiping those half-breed scum off the face of the earth. I refuse to be trapped here for eternity while those human-born freaks can scamper about the mortal world at will.” Her son flinched but locked his gaze over her shoulder. His voice remained firm, unwavering. “There may still be a way.” Queen Odelina sat up, folding her legs beneath her and flinging the tiny pixies from her hair with a quick shake of her head. Her muscles quivered with the heat of her displeasure and barely restrained rage. “And you think to tell me this last?” He scrambled back a pace while forcing his gaze down. His wings trembled ever so slightly but otherwise he remained passive in face of her ire. “It may not work.”

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With a flick of her hand Queen Odelina sent all her servants back to the tree line. She turned all her attention back on her son. “If there is a way, it will work. I will allow for no other results. Now what is it?” He licked his lips and cleared his throat before continuing. “According to the treaty you signed, all those you claim as your people are held to the same agreement. We must stay in Otherworld with only brief visits to the mortal realm. No harm may be done to a human para while one of your Fae visits.” “Yes, yes.” She gave an impatient toss of red curls. “We know this already.” “But it says nothing of those you no longer claim as your own.” Her eyes flashed and she clenched her teeth. Power gathered around her, stirring the grass and crackling in the air. The glade held its breath in the face of her rage. “And this helps me how?” “The exiles, Majesty. Those you had already banished from your kingdom.” He dared to glance up for a moment. She nodded for him to continue. “At the time of the signing of the Accord, several Fae, including a handful of nobles, had been exiled to the mortal realm. If one of these Fae launched a preemptive attack on their own you couldn’t be held accountable for their actions. They do not belong to you, by your own decree. If their banishment predates the Accord, it cannot be said that you planned their attack.” Could it really be so simple? An overly wide grin parted her lips as different possibilities flickered through her mind. “But if the half-breeds retaliated and the Fae killed was part of a noble family, that family could petition for retribution.” A flash of distaste crossed her son’s face but he quickly wiped it away. “That is the idea, Your Majesty. From there it would be a simple thing to escalate the hostilities, bypassing the strict wording of the Accord without risking your position or breaking your oath.” Again her smile held no joy, only wicked pleasure. Though the obvious choice seemed clear to her, Odelina wanted to know her council’s feelings on the issue. These matters had to be approached with delicacy. “Who do the nobles have in mind? The exiled have been banished for a reason, most for having the audacity to disagree with the war in the first place. Who do you suggest we approach to reignite our righteous cause?” “The nobles suggest looking at those who have been longest in exile, the ones who’ve had more time to regret their actions and wish to return home.” Her son met her gaze for an instant before closing his eyes and clenching his jaw. “Also, it must be considered who has the highest rank and the most loyalty to Your Majesty.” So careful to avoid saying the name. It must pain you but you do know where your loyalties need to lie. Don’t you, my son? “And again, I would know, who do they have in mind?” Her son looked ill, face pasty and lips forming a thin line. “I know you are most displeased with the man they suggest but he is your best option.” “Who?” 27

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“Prince Faolan,” he whispered, only the slightest bit of anguish tainting his words. Oh, but her son hated betrayal, especially when he was the betrayer. Her dark smile slowly spread across Queen Odelina’s lips. There was a certain poetic justice in this. She took a deep breath, enjoying the fragrant air for the first time in years, as it held the barest hint of sweet, sweet freedom. “A sacrifice to restart the war. Considering his outspoken resentment of that same war, it seems almost poetic. For once the boy might actually be of some use to me.” “And he’s spent several centuries in the mortal realm,” the lesser Fae added, though his voice lacked an element of conviction. “He must be desperate to reclaim his rightful position in the court. The perfect lamb to be led to slaughter.” Queen Odelina lay back in the grass and snapped her fingers for the pixies. They zoomed forward and resumed lacing her locks with flowers. “So you would think. Find him. Use whatever means necessary but find my son. Convince your brother to do this for me and perhaps I’ll even allow your daughter to await your victorious return.” Her other son jerked at her words, eyes closing and shoulders sagging in relief. “As you wish.”

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Chapter Six Faolan checked the mirror one last time, straightening the cuffs of his oversized poet shirt and scowling slightly at the tremor in his hands. He clenched and unclenched his fingers until the shaking stopped. If only he could rid himself of the butterflies currently filling his stomach so easily. This was the night, his first true date with that hot wolf of a man, Garrick Rhine. It was the start of a whole new era in his life if everything went well. This could be the beginning of his future, one where he wasn’t alone for centuries without end, one with the possibility of someone truly giving a damn about his needs and his desires. Not to mention, as a dom he had the duty to break in a new, inexperienced sub. That alone was a big responsibility, without the added pressures of a budding relationship. Faolan had every right to a little performance anxiety. But he didn’t have to like it. It didn’t fit well with his carefully cultivated, badass punk persona. He blew a puff of air to push one rebellious lock of hair out of his eyes. Of course, he could focus on the bright side. This also meant that he would be able to train Garrick the right way, the way he wanted him trained. He didn’t have to deal with the mistakes or emotional baggage that another, less-experienced and -skilled dom could bury a sub in. Garrick would be someone all his own, belonging solely to him—someone fresh, practically innocent. It’d been so long since Faolan had been that close to someone fresh and new. He just had to keep cool and remember that tonight was about learning to enjoy each other’s company and to get to know Garrick as a person, outside the scene. It was a time for them to talk and for him to start feeling out the man’s needs, wants and limits without the blurriness and pressure of being in the bedroom. Trust had to come first. Not a lot of pressure to add to first-date jitters. Why did I sign up for this anyway? At least the status quo didn’t make me all…needy. “Freaking out already?” Aindreas asked, his dark head peeking around the doorway at his fidgeting friend. “Why did I let you come over again?” Faolan sniped back as he used a bit of glamour to round the tips of his ears. It wouldn’t do to let nerves stick him on the cover of a grocery store rag next to Bigfoot and the latest Elvis sighting. Male Tinkerbell Sighted in Las Vegas. That’d go over real well. “Moral support.” Aindreas stepped a little way into Faolan’s massive bedroom. “That, and since I suggested you try the service, it’s only fair that I get to see some of the giddy results. It’s not like I’m asking you to let me watch you have sex with him…at least not the first time. Just wanna watch you get all flustered.” He paused, that playful 29

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look he used to hide behind sliding across his face with ease. “Of course, I’m more than willing to be there observing the first time if you want.” Faolan snorted, eyeing his smirking friend through the mirror. “Damn voyeur.” “Yes.” Aindreas grinned, completely unrepentant as he pulled himself to his full five-foot-ten-inch height. His eyes glittered with barely suppressed mischief. “And proud of it.” Faolan fiddled with the row of rings climbing his ears, hating himself for his nervousness and knowing he didn’t dare let it show. Not tonight at least. Garrick was too inexperienced to see his dom as anything but cool and confident. No matter how he really felt. Tonight he had to be the hardcore master he resembled. “If you ask me, you’re the one who should’ve gone to Divine Intervention in the first place.” He curled his lips back in a well-practiced sneer. Funny how you couldn’t sneer and choke on your nerves at the same time. Aindreas wasn’t about to let Faolan get away with that comment, not when there was so little truth in it. Instead of stepping away and giving him room, Aindreas picked up a brush and set about helping him tame that one annoying strand of hair by easing it into the long, blond tail. “So you don’t want a chance at a relationship with that hot piece of shifter ass? I’ll take him from you then. He might enjoy the hand of a switch, someone who understands both sides of the D/s equation. I’d show him pleasures he never imagined possible. Bet he could keep me busy for a few decades at the very least.” Jealous fire lashed through Faolan’s blood, shocking him with its intensity. “Keep your hands and eyes off,” he growled, watching carefully as Aindreas stepped back, put down the brush and raised his hands. “You don’t want to see the level of pain I can dish out.” “Oh, but I’ve had firsthand experience with the pain you dish out and loved every delicious second if memory serves.” Aindreas grinned, rolling his hips and shaking his ass. He hummed and licked his lips. “But I think it’s interesting how possessive you’ve already become and you just met the guy. Only one kiss, hot as it was to watch, and the Great One has fallen. Wonder what will happen when he wraps those magic lips around your cock?” With a huff, Faolan flipped his hair over his shoulder and struck an irate pose, knowing that he wasn’t fooling his friend for a second. “I’m a dom. Being possessive comes with the territory. It’s part of my role.” “No, you’re supposed to be authoritative and in control of every facet of the situation. You’re supposed to control your sub in order to bring both of you to greater plateaus of pleasure.” Aindreas paused long enough to tap a single finger against his pouting lips. “Why do I have the feeling that you have no intention of even sharing your new pet with anyone else? I foresee a lot of disappointed subs at The Keep and plenty of envious doms.” “You’re fooling yourself,” Faolan scoffed.

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“Am I?” Faolan stared at the mirror again, wishing he had the power to use it to peek into the future. Was his friend wrong? The splinter of weak hope growing around his heart seemed to agree with Aindreas. After meeting Garrick, Faolan was shocked to find how much he looked forward to a simple date with dinner and dancing. And that kiss—that almost electric kiss. He could still feel the echoing tingle in his lips, leaving a wicked craving in its wake. Maybe there was something to the whole fate and destiny thing. Maybe that was the real reason he felt so on edge. He’d looked more into lupin culture since meeting Garrick. Their people believed in one true mate, one their wolf would know after their first full intercourse. The lack of personal choice when it came to a mate was why, as a people, lupins tended to be much more open about sex in general, accepting homosexuality and bisexuality without fuss. It also made a mated wolf an extremely faithful partner. Aindreas lost his teasing expression, coming forward to lay a comforting hand on his old friend’s shoulder. “I never thought I’d see that look on your face. If you ask me, it’s about time.” Faolan shrugged, afraid to allow that small blossom of hope out in the open and risk it withering away. Pride was one of the few things his queen mother allowed him to keep after his exile from Otherworld. “It’s early yet. It may not work out. Hell, he’s so raw he could change his mind before this first date is over. He might not even show up.” “Or he could end up with you for the next few centuries.” Aindreas gave voice to Faolan’s most closely guarded wish. Aindreas stepped behind him and wrapped his arms around his waist, tucking Faolan’s head beneath his chin. “Scary compared to your usual one-night stands.” Eyes closed, Faolan leaned back against his friend and sighed. “Terrifying actually.” “Good.” Aindreas pushed Faolan forward and took a step back. “As long as you realize that, then everything should be all right.” “What do you mean?” Faolan turned with arms crossed to glare. “You don’t take things seriously. You treat everything like a game.” For once Aindreas looked truly worried, no longer the teasing buddy that he usually allowed the world to see. “It’s how you protect yourself from disappointment. And don’t tell me it isn’t because I damn well know better. I’ve watched you do it over and over again, ever since you were banished to the mortal realm.” Faolan flinched, the memory of his greatest personal failure still holding enough power to sting. Why hadn’t he been able to get the others to see where the war had been leading them all? Why had it cost so many lives before the queen entered the Accord? And why had it taken him so long to realize the folly of his own role in the battles? “You deserve better, even if you doubt it,” Aindreas continued, ignoring his friend’s discomfort. “That’s why I sent you to that website in the first place.”

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Faolan tried to work up to a truly classic scowl but couldn’t manage it. “You’re up next, you know. If this doesn’t turn into a gigantic fiasco I’ll send your info sheet in myself.” Aindreas tossed his dark head back to laugh. But it sounded hollow to Faolan and his friend’s almond-shaped eyes didn’t hold any hint of real amusement. “No way will they have a match for me. I’m far too flighty for anything so serious. Ask anyone. Hell, I can’t even decide which gender I prefer or if I’d rather top or bottom, submit or dominate. You, on the other hand, just have too much attitude to make a proper faerie. That doesn’t work against you when it comes to being a proper partner. And it’s a plus for a D/s relationship.” Faolan nodded, though he didn’t entirely agree with Aindreas’ assessment. He didn’t have enough time to give Aindreas a proper argument but this conversation was far from over. For now, he clapped her hand on Aindreas’ shoulder and changed the subject. “I don’t know how I managed to luck into you for a friend but it was a good day.” Aindreas gave him a warm kiss on the cheek and tapped the tip of his nose with a single finger. “And don’t you forget it, especially if you plan on having a public scene with your new beau. I expect a personal invitation, preferably engraved, so I can tuck it away as a keepsake and a reminder of your great luck in having me for a friend.” “If Garrick’s okay with it and I think he deserves it, I’ll keep you in mind.” Faolan waved Aindreas toward the door. “Now I have a date. You can see yourself out.” Aindreas laughed as Faolan stalked pass him. He’d be arriving at the club early if he left now but Faolan knew he looked good. If he stuck around, he’d probably worry himself into a frantic bout of wardrobe switching. Better to go to the club, stake out a table for drinks and maybe have a few warm-up dances to calm his nerves. Tonight he’d lead Garrick on the first steps to his life as his submissive and maybe, just maybe, take his own first steps out of loneliness.

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Chapter Seven Garrick squinted as his eyes adjusted to the dim lights of the dance club. The beat of the techno music slammed against his body as he stepped into the gloom. The thick, salty, musky smell of so many humans packed into such a small area made his nose all but useless in tracking through the crowd. Instead he scanned the tables for Faolan’s sheet of bright blond hair. Nothing. He was on time and expected to see his date waiting for him either outside or by the door. Somewhere he could be easily found, where he could keep his eye out for Garrick. That’s what he’d have done if their roles were reversed. Garrick had hoped for a sign of the same impatience in Faolan that he felt as he waited all day for it to be time to meet. But no such luck. Maybe Faolan had changed his mind. With a deep breath, Garrick eased through the mass of dancers flowing around him to search for Faolan. He had to be here. He didn’t seem like the type to stand up his date. Kick him in the balls if he was late, yes. Stand him up, no. Finally he caught a quick whiff of spring flowers toward the center of the action, followed by a flash of golden blond. As he caught his first glimpse of the faerie, the air rushed out of his lungs. There, surrounded by a group of both men and women, Faolan swayed. His low-hanging black leather pants hugged his form like a second skin, outlining every muscle, every curve and every movement he made. The emerald green of his loose satin shirt brought out the sparkle in his eyes as the slight opening only hinted at the warm, creamy skin of his chest. His hair, pulled back in a tail at the base of his neck, slid against his form like a silken cape. But it was the way his body moved that left Garrick gasping for breath, tongue heavy and swollen in his mouth. It couldn’t be described as simply dancing. He was one with the music, every beat, every note and every emotional nuance. It was like watching art and nature meld into a perfect marriage, a perfect sensual combination. The image froze Garrick in his tracks, his muscles hardening with the urge to throw himself at the other man’s feet. And he knew the exact moment Faolan noticed him. A secret half-smile curved the faerie’s lips and his movements grew even more sensuous, dripping sex like warm honey. His eyes locked on to Garrick, never moving as his body continued its worship of the music. Slowly, ever so slowly, Faolan glided toward him.

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When he reached Garrick, Faolan put his hands on Garrick’s hips, pulling his body into his own and into the dance. With a nudge of his hips Faolan moved Garrick to the rhythm, making him a part of the music in a way he’d never felt before. Garrick finally understood what it meant to make love on the dance floor. He’d always enjoyed dancing, loved to feel a strong beat pounding through his blood like liquid moonlight. He loved the primal feel of it. But this was different. When Faolan touched him everything disappeared but the faerie in his arms and the music in the air. The heat of the man’s body filled Garrick, warm and thick. His blood grew heavy in his veins, throbbing in time with the rhythm. He closed his eyes and gave himself over to sensation. Garrick wrapped his arms around the smaller man, thrusting against him along with the beat. He rubbed his aroused cock against Faolan’s, enjoying the slight moan and shiver coming from him. Closing his eyes, Garrick allowed himself to be enveloped in Faolan’s fresh scent as it brought forth yearnings from deep in his soul. He imagined the outdoors on a moonlit night, his lover wrapped in his arms. The world felt right for the first time in years. Worries disappeared, no pack and no business. Only his lover existed in this perfect moment. The trance broke when sirens blared through the room and strobes kicked up to a new frantic beat, marking a change of song. Garrick opened his eyes, blinking down into Faolan’s shining face. “I’m glad you like to dance.” Faolan squeezed Garrick’s ass and shimmied against his hard flesh one last time. “I don’t know if I could deal with a lover who either couldn’t or didn’t like to dance.” Garrick moved closer, glaring at a man who stepped toward Faolan with an expectant smirk. He might want to be the faerie’s sub but that made the man his dom. His. And nobody else better try to get between them. “It’s the Otherworld in you, huh? Dancing big with non-human paras?” Garrick asked to distract him from the glare he shot to send the other man scurrying away. Faolan stared at him for a moment, not fooled for a second, before bursting out laughing. “What?” Faolan shook his head. It took a moment for him to calm his laughter enough to answer. He swiped a loose strand of hair out of his face before he replied, “I guess that’s better than saying it was the faerie in me peeking out. I didn’t think anyone still bought that whole dancing in a fairy circle thing. ‘Cause I gotta tell you, I don’t even like mushrooms in my salad much less a circle of toadstools for a dance floor.” Garrick grinned back, reaching down to lace his fingers with Faolan’s and giving them a quick squeeze. “I don’t know. I wouldn’t mind the whole seeing you prance around naked part. Hell, I’m counting on the opportunity. Be willing to beg for it.” Faolan laughed even harder, his green eyes almost glowing, before bringing one of Garrick’s hands up to place a quick kiss on his knuckles. “You’re going to be good for me, I can tell. Though I have a feeling I’ll be dealing with your cheekiness often. And 34

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we’ll get to the begging soon enough. How about we sit this next one out and have a drink?” “Sounds good.” Faolan led him off the packed dance floor to a small table with a gold “reserved” card on it. “Beer?” he asked as he folded himself into a small chair. Garrick nodded and scooted his own chair forward. Faolan flagged down the waitress and ordered two lagers before fixing his entire attention on Garrick. “So, now that you’ve had a day to think things over, still willing to trust me and follow my lead?” Garrick snorted. Really, the guy had to be more observant than that. Couldn’t he see for himself just how strongly his mere presence affected him? “After that kiss you gave me? You’re lucky I didn’t trail you home. As it was, I had some serious fuel for my dreams.” Playful mischief sparkled in the faerie’s eyes. “You’ll share some of those dreams with me later. And I’ve never had a puppy follow me home before.” Faolan tapped his full lower lip as he considered it. “But I would’ve kept you. Maybe built a whole kennel for you. I think you’d be worth way more than a call to animal control.” The image of Faolan as his captor sent shivers down Garrick’s spine. Some of his darker fantasies flashed through Garrick’s mind. A kennel might not be so bad if Faolan promised to do more than just take him out for walks. “So should it surprise you that I’d like to try staying with you?” Faolan shook his head but lost his playful air. His voice lowered as he started talking about what was foremost on both their minds. “It’s not going to be easy, you understand. Even if we shelve the interspecies issues that are bound to cause trouble with some of your people, the BDSM lifestyle isn’t easy no matter how attracted you are to it. And as much as you might want to keep it quiet, and I will help with that, chances are it’ll get out. Maybe not to the vanilla world but the info will travel through the scene. The BDSM community isn’t as small as it once was but it isn’t big enough to hide in for long. Being a para shortens your odds even more. Someone who knows you will eventually discover your secret no matter how careful we are. Are you certain this is what you want?” “I’m not a pup. I’ve had a damn long time to think about it and consider the consequences.” Garrick leaned forward, staring deep into concerned green eyes. “I’m tired, Faolan, tired of pretending. I’m tired of feeling like I’m living some sort of halflife, tired of having my stomach knot up at the images I run through my mind to get off. I tried coming out and living life as a ‘normal’ gay man. I’ve tried to make a vanilla life be enough to satisfy me but it just isn’t. I’ve come to terms with the fact that it never will be. I’m asking you to help me.” Possible repercussions flipped through Garrick’s mind but also his own needs and desires. It wasn’t an easy choice but which side the scales leaned toward was obvious. “Yes, I’m an Alpha. I’m strong. I’m a good leader and I do what’s best for my pack. I take care of the lupin who depend on me and I make certain that everyone has what

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they need to survive and flourish. But I want to be cared for too. I want my needs met, all of my needs, even the unconventional ones. I want more and I want it enough to take that risk.” “And you believe becoming a sexual submissive, my submissive, will fill that need for you?” He wanted to snap a quick denial but it was an honest question. If Divine Intervention was right and this man was a perfect match for him, Faolan deserved an honest answer. Garrick took a moment to consider his position. “There’s no becoming, just learning how to go about it. I am a sexual submissive. I’ve always accepted that. The feeling is there, inside me like a dark, gaping hole. I’ve pretended otherwise my whole life, tried to bury it. But it lurks in the back of my mind and in my darkest imaginings. All ignoring it has gotten me is to turn it into an obsession. I’m not a candidate for a 24/7 lifestyle. I’m no one’s permanent slave. I don’t need to be taken care of and have no desire to have my life constantly controlled. I’m not a doormat and I don’t expect to be treated as such. But regular sex doesn’t satisfy me anymore, if it ever really did.” With that said, Garrick sat back, arms crossed over his churning stomach, and waited for Faolan’s response. “Good.” Faolan reached for his drink. That’s all? “Good?” With a roll of his eyes Faolan sat his drink back down and reached across the table to pry a hand away from Garrick’s stomach, warming it for a moment before letting go and leaning back again. “Of course good. If you’d said anything else I would’ve told you that you were making a mistake and I’d have to give you up. I want to keep you, so ‘good’. Now we just need to find out what your wants, needs and desires are, as well as your limitations.” “I thought that was your job, to make me do whatever you wanted?” Distaste shadowed Faolan’s face and his mouth tightened. “Only if I were a crappy dom. I’m anything but crappy. What I am is a faerie, not a mind reader. I need to understand you in order to push you to your limits and keep you safe at the same time. How could you possibly trust a dom who doesn’t talk to you?” “But I thought…” “I know what you thought.” Faolan sighed. He swirled his beer, staring blankly into the liquid. “It’s a common misconception that can lead to hurt feelings if not actual injury. It’s not like what you see in porn movies. The truth is that any good dom will talk everything out with his sub before they start an activity, whether it’s the beginning of a relationship or the start of a new scene between two regular players. Planning and discussion are essential. I’m sure if you’ve looked into the lifestyle at all, you’ve heard the phrase safe, sane and consensual.” With one raised brow, light glittering on the platinum bar thrust through it, he paused to stare at Garrick. “You have looked into the scene yourself, right? We’re not starting completely from square one?”

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“Yeah,” Garrick answered with a shrug. Damn if he couldn’t feel his skin heating. Nothing like admitting to jacking off while checking out websites to give a swift kick to the ego. “I surfed the net, got some books. A lot of it was probably bullshit but I tried to find info on real relationships and how they work. But it’s not the same as having real experience with it.” “No, but it’s a place for us to start from.” Faolan leaned across the table again, his presence drawing Garrick into his every word. “When we start to negotiate you’ll at least have some understanding of what I’m talking about. Now before we get into all the details, why don’t you tell me something about yourself?” With that, Garrick fell into an open and easy discussion. Over several more beers they talked about their respective lives, without mention of sex or submission. Garrick told Faolan about controlling pack monies and the investments he’d made and businesses he’d bought over the years. Faolan told of the growing demand for his paintings and how he was beginning to branch out into sculpture. They discovered they liked many of the same books and movies, that they loved all types of music but had different opinions about the merits of each genre. Hours flew by without notice. Finally Faolan glanced down at his watch. “If we’re going to make our dinner reservations we’ll need to get moving.” Feeling a pleasant buzz from the beers, Garrick was still surprised by how much time had passed. “Shit, it’s almost midnight. Where’d you get reservations for at this time of night?” “I have some—nocturnal—friends. They have an all-night restaurant that’s not far from here. Some of the best Middle Eastern food in town. You’ll love their lamb.” Taking mental inventory of the extent of his warm buzz, Garrick nodded. “Sounds good. Shifter metabolism being what it is, I can walk out under my own steam. But after all those beers I could use the food.” Faolan came around and helped Garrick out of his chair, guiding him to the door with a gentle hand against the small of his back. It felt strange letting someone else take care of him this way, a little weird to let Faolan have even that much control. Put him off balance. Maybe in a good way, he thought as liquid warmth spread from where the faerie’s palm rested, relaxing his muscles at the same time as it hardened his cock. His heart raced and his face felt warm. He’d better not be blushing. He glanced down at Faolan’s pale skin framed by his loose emerald shirt, his tongue almost swelling with the desire to lick that warm, creamy flesh. Definitely off balance in a good way. So busy eyeing Faolan’s tight body and wondering if he had those rings in his nipples tonight or something else, Garrick didn’t smell the familiar scent of pack. He didn’t see the disbelieving stare or the flush of anger. And he certainly didn’t notice the man and woman’s hasty exit, hands already fishing out cell phones.

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Chapter Eight The next evening as he pulled up the driveway of the main house, Garrick had a difficult time keeping his mind on the pack, especially after a full day at the office. He had to be present for the meeting of all the higher-level wolves discussing their business earnings but the last thing he wanted to do was listen to more boring financial reports. His mind kept flying back to Faolan. It surprised him how much he genuinely liked the other man, enjoyed just talking to him. And he was amazed by how much they had in common and how long their dinner conversation had gone. Yes, Faolan had a body sexy enough to melt a man’s brain while causing his cock to stand at attention. Yes, his voice alone sent shivers down Garrick’s spine but it was Faolan’s strong will stuffed in a petite package coupled with his sense of humor that really pulled at Garrick’s heartstrings. Not to mention how delicious he smelled. It made Garrick want to sink his teeth into him—if Faolan allowed him to. Maybe Faolan would make him work for the privilege. Garrick had to reach down and adjust himself, his cock hardening with the images that teased him. And he couldn’t see Faolan until tomorrow night. That was Faolan’s first command. They had to take a full day away from each other to think things over and make certain Garrick felt ready to start playing. A sigh fell from his lips. Well, at least the pack business would distract him in the meantime. Garrick stepped out of his car but paused just outside his pack’s main building to think of how far they’d come. The compound he’d helped build stretched for acres through the desert with many different houses dotting the landscape. Outsiders thought it was just another pre-planned community built far enough on the outskirts of the city that the Strip was only a soft neon glow on the horizon. At times it worried him how the city was slowly beginning to encroach on their area. They’d have to invest money in expanding pack land soon or they’d have humans living at their doorsteps—a risky prospect to say the least. His nose twitched as he opened the solid oak door and stepped into the building. Even from the small foyer, it smelled all wrong. Too many fresh, musky scents filled the air—too many wolves. There shouldn’t be this many wolves here for a regularly scheduled financial meeting. And it wasn’t a full moon. No runs were planned for tonight. Something had happened or was about to happen. The hair at the nape of his neck stood on end—never a good sign. A growl rumbled deep in his chest as his wolf sat up in the face of a perceived threat. 38

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He walked down the hall, clenching his fists against the urge to change. If his pack wanted to say something to him, the human in him owed it to them to hear them out. If someone wanted a fight, he’d let his wolf out and give it to them. Hell, a fight would rid him of some of his sexual frustration. He opened another set of heavy oak doors and stepped onto a small landing to look down a flight of stairs at a large room. Silence greeted his entrance to the meeting hall. Over half the pack stood staring at the door, some expectantly while others looked like they wished they could’ve been anywhere else. Since his beta hadn’t called about any problems, there was only one reason for such a gathering. Shit. “So who’s it to be?” Garrick snarled as he stripped off his jacket and tossed it to his waiting beta, not bothering to look at the worried expression on his childhood friend’s face. Bryce hated these fights almost as much as he did but Garrick trusted his beta to back him no matter what. “You don’t even want to know why?” A beefy older wolf, new to the pack and known only as Joe, shoved his way to the front of the room. Others fell back, clearing a large space around the irate lupin. With a sigh, Garrick rolled his eyes at Bryce, who shook his head in return. Why did the new ones always feel they had to prove they were the big dog? How many challenges would he have to win before they stopped trying their luck? This was why most packs weren’t as open to new members as Las Vegas was. Of course, inbreeding led to its own issues. Garrick stalked down the stairs to face his opponent. The man met his eyes squarely, without the slightest flinch. A submissive wolf would feel driven to cower in front of Garrick. The man was an Alpha in his own right but Garrick’s wolf knew he was stronger. Garrick couldn’t let this challenge to his authority go unanswered. “Would it make any difference if I asked? Someone wants a piece of me. He’ll get more than he bargained for—the why doesn’t matter in the end.” Joe stepped closer, the crowd parting even further to form a semicircle around the two of them. He squared up, shoving his chest forward in perfect schoolyard-bully posture. Looking around as though to be certain everyone was watching, he spat on the floor next to Garrick’s feet and sneered. “You go messing around with a non-human and expect no one to notice?” Garrick blinked then straightened to his full height to meet the accusation. He’d thought this was about a new wolf in the pack flexing his muscles, trying to move up the hierarchy. Now that actually hadn’t occurred to him. There’d only been one meeting and one date between himself and Faolan. He’d have to give his people more credit for their information-gathering skills. The gossip mill worked better than he’d expected. Either that or Las Vegas was smaller than he’d thought. Garrick had never considered that they’d find out about Faolan so quickly or he’d have spoken to the pack himself.

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And while he realized there would be some resistance to the idea, some prejudices to overcome, he hadn’t expected an immediate challenge. Well, better sooner than later. There was no point in hiding this part of his relationship, not with so much else in the closet. “Actually, I expected no one to care.” He shrugged and smiled at Joe. He knew that would piss the man off more than any anger or defensiveness could. And an angry opponent tended to be a sloppy opponent. The older lupin trembled, a haze of magic spilling over him. Garrick’s wolf pushed to be freed in response but Garrick held a tight rein. It wasn’t time for a shift yet—close but not quite. “Well, I care.” Joe shook his salt-and-pepper hair in disgust, his entire body vibrating with barely contained rage. “I lost damn near my entire pack in the war. Fucking Fae slaughtered them without mercy. They ripped into us like we were a bunch of barely weaned pups, leaving carnage in their wake. Now my new Alpha’s getting ready to fuck one of them like nothing’s wrong with it. I can’t live with that. I won’t live with that.” As the lupin’s angry words flowed over him, the worst of the tension left Garrick. He hated feeling sorry for the other wolf. It messed with his head, not a good thing right before a battle. But Joe had lost everything, like so many of their people, on both sides. It was a situation that, as pack Alpha, Garrick had been forced to deal with so many times now. “The war’s over. It’s been over for decades.” He held his hand out to Joe, trying to talk him down and allow the other wolf to save face at the same time. “I understand your feelings. We all lost loved ones. But so did they. And now it’s over. Hell, that’s why the wars ended in the first place. We have to move on, build a life from what’s still left—all of us. Otherwise, why did we agree to the Peace Accord?” Joe slapped his hand down with a snarl. His eyes took on the unearthly glow of a barely restrained change as he glared at Garrick. His voice became raspy, more difficult to understand. “Or maybe you’re the one who needs to move on.” Magic swirled around him as he let go. The older wolf shifted a single hand and swiped at Garrick. It wasn’t that he didn’t expect the attack. Garrick had known it was coming the moment he entered the room. He just hadn’t realized how powerful Joe was. He hadn’t thought the man Alpha enough to hold a partial shift. Otherwise he wouldn’t have managed to slice into Garrick’s skin at all, even the shallow scratches he’d managed to put on Garrick’s chest. Still, that didn’t mean he wasn’t prepared for the attack. Garrick was smart and caring and he filled the pack coffers. That made him the best leader the pack had seen in centuries. But that wasn’t how he got the job of Alpha and it sure as hell wasn’t how he kept it.

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He leaped back and freed his wolf, becoming one with him and reveling in the release. It felt amazing to just let go and allow the shifting magic to take him. This wasn’t a nice running-in-full-wolf-form-to-chase-down-jackrabbits kind of shift. No, in a perfect marriage of wolf and man, Garrick rose up to a height of nearly eight feet. His clothing ripped and fell to the floor. His gums reshaped to accommodate a massive row of sharp, gleaming teeth. He flexed his hands, lethal claws sliding out from the tips of each finger. He shook—long, shaggy black hair flowing over his body. The other man finished his change quickly but stood dwarfed beneath the monster Garrick had become. “Last chance.” Garrick’s voice echoed through the room, guttural with words formed by half muzzle, nearly incomprehensible. But the other wolf understood. He understood and refused, charging headfirst into Garrick’s stomach. Garrick withstood the impact, staggering two steps back under the onslaught. He wrapped his larger arms around his adversary. The wolf struggled to rip into Garrick’s belly. Garrick squeezed him in, holding tight. Joe could barely move, managing only a few scratches down Garrick’s sides. He twisted upward, snarling and snapping at Garrick’s throat. Garrick tightened his grip and angled his head away, feeling the lupin’s ribs creak beneath the pressure of his arms. The other wolf’s movements took on a frantic feel as he struggled to break free. He whimpered but wouldn’t stand down. Garrick tightened even more. Joe yowled, wasting precious breath. He picked up his knees and slammed his head back. Garrick absorbed the impact, keeping his grip tight. As the other man’s body went slack in his embrace, Garrick threw the man to the floor, tossed his head up and howled his victory. But Garrick didn’t change back. Not yet. Not until he knew the other man was finished. The only kill he’d ever made in a challenge had happened when he’d thought the other wolf had given up, only to be attacked when he’d resumed human form. With so few left they couldn’t waste any of their people in needless death. He needn’t have worried. Joe shimmered, lying naked on his hands and knees. He gasped for air, hacking and coughing as he regained his breath. He glared at Garrick, his lips peeling back into a snarl, but turned his head to bare his neck. At the man’s submission Garrick reined back his wolf. The beast in him struggled, wanting to finish the kill, to hurt the one who dared challenge him and put him in his place. But that wasn’t Garrick’s way. Still, the wolf’s wrath flowed through him as he regained his human form and faced down his pack. Garrick let his anger spill over to the crowd of eager onlookers, watching as the closest flinched. “Is this what you want? Is it?” He clenched and unclenched his hands, resisting the urge to pop claws. “I’ve led this pack since the end of the wars. We’ve grown strong and prosperous, one of the strongest packs in the country. We are a force to be reckoned with instead of a ragtag group of shell-shocked survivors. But if I’m not 41

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what you want as your leader, if you’d rather have an inexperienced hothead like this for an Alpha, just let me know.” He glared out but none met his gaze. They acted more like sheep than wolves. It was enough to turn his stomach. With his temper riding so close to the surface, Garrick knew he couldn’t stay in front of them for long without losing it. “I’m sick of having to fight or kill for the pleasure of working my ass off to keep you all safe. Think about that the next time some idiot decides to make a challenge.” He glanced down at the floor, littered with tattered pieces of cloth that had once been his suit. He clenched his jaw, a growl rumbling deep in his chest. He grabbed his jacket from Bryce and stomped out of the room, heading for the upstairs bedrooms where spare clothing was kept. Damn if that hadn’t been his favorite suit. Garrick growled as he jerked open drawers, searching for a pair of sweats. Happy to pissed in record time. Fucking pack. If I didn’t care about them so much I’d strangle the lot of them. “Is this a private tantrum or can anyone join in?” Garrick glared over his shoulder at his friend as Bryce stepped around him to hang up his jacket in the small closet. Garrick moved over slightly to give his beta more room. “Can’t I have some privacy?” Bryce snorted. “In the pack house? Not likely. Not even when you’re fuming. So better it’s someone used to your temper than someone new to the pack who might actually be scared of you.” Pulling back his teeth into a snarl, Garrick shook out some sweats and faced his friend. “But I am scary. That’s part of being Alpha—being the biggest, baddest and scariest.” His friend rolled his eyes at Garrick’s posturing. “And so is looking out for the little guy, making sure everyone is cared for and dealing with assholes looking to stir up trouble. You’re better at those roles. It’s more work than just throwing your weight around but you know you love it.” Garrick tugged on the pair of navy sweats. They were a bit tight but do-able. “It’s not that I love it. It’s that I know I’m the best option.” “Right.” Sarcasm dripped from Bryce’s voice. He leaned against the wall, arms crossed as he watched Garrick fish around for a shirt. “You’re not proud of the fact that our pack is the strongest and most stable one in North America, if not the rest of the world. It’s not like you just bragged about the fact.” “What, is pumping up my ego now part of the beta’s job description?” Garrick slammed a drawer closed and jerked a white t-shirt over his head. “Nah, I’m trying to keep you from overreacting.” Bryce gave his Alpha a prodding look. “I’m here to support you and to keep you steady. Right now I’m just wasting time until you’re ready to tell me about him.”

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“About who?” Bryce shook his head and stepped away from the wall. “The faerie dude who’s worth kicking lupin ass over.” With a soft groan, Garrick sat on the loveseat built into the windowsill, trying to think about how to answer. Bryce pulled up a chair and faced him. “That serious, huh?” “Maybe.” Garrick shrugged, not sure what to say or how much to admit. He scooted back on the seat to lean against the cool glass of the window. Was Faolan worth all the trouble? “Not yet but maybe soon.” Bryce wouldn’t let it go with that non-answer. “Is he your mate? ‘Cause if he is, you know the shit’s going to hit the fan.” “I don’t know yet.” It took Bryce a moment to understand. When he did, he leaned forward with a smirk. “You haven’t had sex yet? He’s that new? You’ve never been one to waste time before. Maybe you should just step back then. No one’s worth the amount of trouble his race will stir up.” Garrick pictured the overly pierced faerie and thought about what he could do for him, what Garrick wanted so badly to experience. “I don’t think I can give him up. Not yet.” “Crap. He’s that hot?” Bryce’s brows rose in amazement. Garrick’s stomach clenched with a sudden sinking feeling. He nodded. “And he’s that interesting. If he is my mate I’ll deal with it. But I can’t just drop him without finding out for certain. I won’t risk losing my one chance at a lifemate.” “You mean we’ll deal with it if he’s your mate.” Bryce tipped his chair, balancing on the back legs. “That is part of my job description as beta. I watch your back. If the God and Goddess give you a mate, you take him. End of story. If we have to shove it down some prejudiced throats, so be it.” “You really feel that way?” Bryce rocked back and forth on the spindly legs of the chair. Garrick knew his friend well enough to know that he was carefully weighing each word. “It’s a mating. You stand for your mate before all others. At least that’s what you told me when I brought back Karen and John. No one else would’ve stood behind a three-way mating. But you did. You don’t think I’d support you if you end up in an interspecies bond?” Garrick felt his shoulders relax. He hadn’t realized how much tension he was carrying until his friend spoke up for him. “Thank you. I’m afraid that before this is over I may need your support.” Bryce snickered at the understatement. His chair came to rest with a heavy thump before he hopped to his feet. “You’ve always got it. Now what say we skip out and go for a run before we deal with pack business? Work off some of the adrenaline?”

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“Give the wolf a chance to calm down, huh?” Garrick grinned as his own wolf perked up in anticipation. “Not a bad idea.” “That’s why you keep me around. I’m all about the good ideas.” “You make a good beta.” “Yeah, I’m your backup. Just remember, I’m there for you no matter what.” Right, you say that now, but will you really be there when everything comes out? Garrick fought off the sense of foreboding and followed his beta out of the room. Maybe a good run would chase away his doubts.

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Chapter Nine The next evening Faolan slid his hands along the lines of his black pants and leather vest one more time, straightening out any wrinkles before he started pacing by the door. His boot heels clicked against the hardwood floors of the foyer. He could let out his nerves now and rid himself of his anxiety. He wouldn’t have a chance once Garrick arrived. So much depended on his skill as a dom tonight—their pleasure, Garrick’s sense of safety and security, as well as their future together. Adrenaline pumped through his body, setting his heart racing and his muscles trembling. Excitement. Anticipation. He wondered what Garrick had thought about as he passed the day, if he’d felt the same sense of meant to be that had haunted him all day. Had Garrick followed his directions as well as he had filled out the questionnaire about his limits that Faolan had emailed to him? Faolan hadn’t planned on punishing him—not yet. But would Garrick try to push his dom or please him? Was he a good puppy or a pushy bottom? What type of a submissive would Garrick be? Damn but too much was riding on this one evening. Faolan stopped in his tracks as the sound of a vehicle pulling in his driveway broke the silence. Right on time. So far, he followed directions. He waited by the door, ready to receive him, fighting the urge to pounce. Garrick rang the bell. Taking a deep breath and plastering a welcoming smile on his face, Faolan opened the door and got his first look at Garrick acting as his new sub. The brown leather pants he’d personally picked out for his pet hugged Garrick’s muscular thighs like a second skin. Those and the thin black t-shirt made his light blue eyes practically glow. Control, gotta keep control. I can’t let him see me drool on the doorstep. That’s so undignified. Faolan forced his stare to stick to Garrick’s eyes, refusing to let his gaze drop. As an Alpha lupin, Garrick would see that action as a weakness. He opened the door wide and Faolan waved his new pet forward. “Finally. Come in.” Garrick gave a tremulous grin in return, running his fingers through his black curls and ducking his gaze. No matter how serious he wanted to be, laughter threatened to bubble out at the timidity of Garrick’s expression. The big bad wolf brought down by the tattooed and pierced faerie prince—proof positive that the God and Goddess had senses of humor. “My goodness, such an anxious expression you’re wearing.” Faolan managed to turn his smile into a knowing smirk. Big, tough, Alpha Garrick’s innocence and

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insecurity when it came to the scene made it difficult to keep a straight face. Faolan actually had to concentrate on keeping to his role and remember that Garrick would need guidance. He cupped the lupin’s chin to force Garrick’s focus on his words. “Don’t worry. I’m not planning on ambushing you, at least not tonight. You need to feel more comfortable with me before we do any forced seduction scenes. Not to mention I need more time for planning. I thought I might show you around first, let you get comfortable.” “So I get a warning before we start anything?” Garrick asked, moving his chin out of Faolan’s grip. He craned his head about to get a good look at Faolan’s home. Not that he could see much from the entryway. Over the last couple of centuries Faolan had managed to build an impressive compound on the ten acres he owned near Lake Mead, with many unexpected twists and turns. From the entry it looked like a simple suburban home. The maze of additions remained tucked out of sight. “Of course I’ll warn you, unless you’ve changed your mind about having a 24/7 lifestyle. Then there’d be no need to warn you.” Faolan stifled another grin, loving how Garrick’s muscles tensed under that dark cotton shirt. The poor man so didn’t know what to expect. While his nervousness was enjoyable, Faolan couldn’t let it grow. A nervous sub was one thing, a frightened one was quite another. “I could accommodate that desire but I really don’t think 24/7 suits you. Not to mention, I doubt I have the patience to be a dom every moment of every day. For now we can start with a temporary collaring. Wearing the collar can be your cue that playtime is about to begin. It will help you get into the mindset, let you know when we’re starting. When you aren’t wearing your collar, you are not my sub and may act accordingly. Agreed?” Shoulders relaxing, Garrick sighed. “I’m that obvious, huh?” “The tension coming off you in waves? Yes, quite obvious.” Faolan stopped for a moment to cup the back of Garrick’s head and pull his head down. He kissed the lupin lightly, running his tongue stud along the tender flesh just inside his upper lip. Garrick whimpered and sagged into the kiss. “Tension can be good but not too much.” Faolan pushed Garrick back and steadied him. The man obviously needed a moment to collect himself. “Don’t want to stifle the flow. Now, come in and enjoy the tour. I want to show off a bit. I designed most of my house and I’m proud of my work.” He turned to lead Garrick deeper into his home. Room after room passed by, so many they started to meld into an overall impression of comfort. Each echoed a deep, woodsy color with large, cozy furniture and open spaces. The one room that stood out from Faolan’s overall design was his studio. With the room almost completely enclosed in glass, the view of the craggy mountains surrounding the Vegas valley was the focus. A patch of snow still topped the highest peak. Not even the faint glow of the city could reach here. He smiled as he heard Garrick sigh in satisfaction. With a single gay man living alone for centuries, Garrick must’ve been worried about pastel and frill overload or an

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overabundance of flashy, nouveau décor. The artist in Faolan cringed at the thought. Garrick probably found the outdoors theme as soothing as he did, maybe more so. Faolan was tempted to sit the lupin down in his studio and paint him. Hell, his fingers itched to put Garrick in some medium. He didn’t really care which one. But tonight was about other things, more important things. So he kept Garrick moving until they reached the guestroom. Smaller than the master bedroom, it was very roomy, with only one set of drawers against one wall and an Asian-styled bed against the other. Strange hooks dotting the floor and ceiling were the only other pieces of décor. Faolan reached up to dim the lights. “I thought we’d play here tonight. It’s not as intimidating as my bedroom or worse, the dungeon I have downstairs that you won’t get to see until you’re ready. But this room has enough for our needs tonight.” Garrick swallowed and nodded. “What do you want me to do?” So very nervous. They’re never as nervous as they are the first time. It was something to savor. But Garrick made him proud as he stood unflinching, waiting for his first command. He might be inexperienced but he was more than ready to throw himself into whatever his master asked. He might be nervous but he wasn’t used to the feeling. Faolan turned to take out the collar he’d placed earlier in the drawers of the small cabinet. When he faced Garrick once more, he let his pleasant expression fade to something much more stern. “Kneel before me.” Garrick shivered in response to the tone, another good sign. The part of him that was Alpha wolf must be snarling beneath the surface, ready to fight. But he resisted for Faolan. A single dark curl dropped in front of those steel-colored eyes as Garrick fell to his knees and stared up at Faolan. Faolan didn’t see unadulterated trust in Garrick’s expression, not yet. But he did see a willingness to take a risk on his master. It was humbling having such a powerful man put himself entirely at his mercy and at the same time it filled him with a sense of purpose. Faolan would do everything in his power to prove worthy of the effort. He began by holding out a simple, inch-wide, brown leather collar, lined with fur. “We start with your training collar. If you are diligent and learn to serve me well, one day you may graduate to your own personal collar. One we choose together or one I will have made just for you. Accepting that collar and all it entails will be your decision. In the meantime, whenever you wear this collar, you give over yourself to my command. You place your control and your pleasure into my hands and trust me to take care of you. Do you accept this mark of my ownership?” “Yes,” Garrick whispered. Oh, but that isn’t nearly good enough. Faolan glared down, emerald eyes snapping. “Yes what?” Garrick’s body trembled again but a sweet, contented smile slid across his mouth. “Yes, Master.” Faolan didn’t say anything, afraid his pleasure at those two words coming from Garrick’s lips would be too apparent. He had to hold himself in check for his new pet. 47

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He wrapped the stiff leather around Garrick’s neck, buckling it in back so the D-ring stood out in the front. He ran his fingertip under the edge, checking that it was snug but not too tight. He wanted Garrick to feel the weight and be aware of the meaning behind it. He didn’t want Garrick to choke on it. Faolan stepped back and took a mental picture of Garrick in his first collar. Damn, that was the perfect look for Garrick—or at least almost perfect. It needed one more thing. “Very nice. Now remove your clothing.” Garrick started to get to his feet but hesitated. “May I stand, Master?” Faolan’s lips curled up in a half-smile. Drat, Garrick caught himself before making a mistake. This one will be easy to train, a good little pup. He’s been in command enough in everyday life to recognize a possible trap. He threw his all into the role. But how much of his response is true and how much is just what he thinks I expected? Will I be forced to tame Garrick or will I need to watch out that I don’t push my pet’s limits too far? “Since you remembered and asked so nicely, you may stand.” Body quivering, Garrick rose. He took a deep breath as he pulled his t-shirt over his head, causing all those delicious muscles to ripple. He kept his gaze down, sliding his fingers through his thick dark hair before toeing off his shoes and stepping to the side. His fingers trembled slightly as he unbuttoned his pants. But even with the tension riding Garrick’s body, Faolan couldn’t help but notice that his pup had to peel his pants and boxers over his hard and straining cock. Nice. Very nice. Mental note: Thank Aindreas for the recommendation to Divine Intervention. Once done, Garrick stood with his hands clenched at his sides. He glanced up but cast his eyes quickly back down. He had good control. Faolan frowned to himself. Too much control. I can’t wait to test it, see what it takes to break it. “Very nice. Do you have to work out to keep in such good shape or does it come naturally with the lupin race?” Faolan watched Garrick’s throat bob as he swallowed. “Little bit of both.” Faolan smiled at the barest hint of a crack in Garrick’s voice. “I have a higher metabolism which keeps me lean. But I do work out, beyond the runs in wolf form. I’ve got to stay imposing to ward off petty challenges.” “Nice.” Faolan walked around him, carefully noting how the sound of his boot heels clicking on the hardwood floor made Garrick twitch. His big bad wolf was attuned to his other senses. That would be useful information, something to keep in mind when planning future evenings. Faolan slid a single finger across Garrick’s chest muscles and left a trail of rippling flesh in its wake. “I have to say, the artist in me appreciates a fine example of the male form. You’ll have to pose for me.” Garrick flinched. “Is that an order, Master?”

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“Not right now, no.” Faolan considered Garrick’s expression as he weighed his words. “And maybe not at all, if it’s something you truly don’t want to do. We’ll see once we’ve spent more time together. Remember, you’re not to worry when you’re with me—ever. I’m in control and I plan to send you soaring. Tonight will be all about the mind, apprehension but not fear. You have my word that I will never break you to a point beyond repair and I won’t put you at true risk. Imagined, yes. True risk? No. You have a life outside my influence. You need to trust that I understand and respect that.” Garrick gave him a tentative smile, a look endearingly puppyish on such a strong face. “I’m sorry, Master.” “Don’t worry. You’ll make it up to me. Starting now. Follow me.” Faolan led him so that the edge of the bed hit the back of his calves. Damn, with all that fine flesh spread out before him, his fingers itched to start the play. “Tonight, I will explain myself to you, gently guide you through a fantasy. Play things by ear and see what works for us. I won’t always be so forthcoming. Actually, I will rarely do so. But tonight is about learning what works for us. I want to discover your turn-ons but I also plan on pushing some of your buttons. How far we go depends on your reaction. I expect you to keep me informed about your feelings and to control that wolf of yours.” He looked down and saw Garrick’s fingers twisting together. He covered those anxious hands with his own, taking note of how cold Garrick’s felt. “Normally I demand complete, unquestioning obedience. And there will be consequences when I don’t get what I want. But I won’t punish you for your questions tonight. If you would feel better knowing something, feel free to ask without any repercussions. You have my permission to speak up as long as you remember to address me properly. Do you understand?” “Yes, Master.” “Good answer. Now sit here.” Garrick glanced up at him, askance, but perched on the side of the bed, hands gripping the edge of the mattress. Faolan went back to the drawers, taking out a thin black leash and a satin blindfold. He clipped the leash to Garrick’s collar and hooked the other end to a small eyebolt set in the floor to keep him in place. Garrick whimpered slightly, instinctively pulling against the restraint at his neck as Faolan secured the blindfold—music to Faolan’s ears. “Come now,” Faolan whispered, sliding his fingers down Garrick’s left cheek, “an Alpha lupin like yourself, concerned with a little sight deprivation and minor restraint? It’s only there to force you to concentrate on your other senses. Surely you can handle that for me?” “Yes, Master.” Garrick’s answer came quickly but lacked conviction behind the words. His knuckles went white from the tightness of his grip. Faolan pried Garrick’s fingers from the bed, massaging until his hands unclenched and his body relaxed. He then guided them back to lie flat on the bed beside Garrick’s thighs, pressing them into the mattress. “Keep your hands here until I say otherwise. If 49

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you disobey this command I will be forced to tie you down to make certain you do as you are told.” Garrick nodded, jaw clenching again. Faolan sighed but kept his hands over Garrick’s. “Excuse me. I don’t believe I heard a response.” “Yes, Master.” With an open grin, Faolan stepped away from Garrick and watching his head tilt as he followed the sound of his movements. Faolan allowed himself a moment to stare down at his sub with anticipation and delight now that Garrick could no longer see his excited expression. Playtime. Now where to start? It was hard to leave Garrick sitting there looking so yummy but Faolan had a stage to set. He went back to the dresser for his iPod and speakers. He’d prepared several hours’ worth of music and sounds on his playlist, enough to last through this scene no matter how long it took. As he plugged the device into his Bose surround-sound system, the sounds of a forest at night filled the air. Bugs buzzed and frogs croaked in the distance. Garrick held perfectly still with his head tilted, his entire body a study of hyperawareness. To help complete the sensory environment, Faolan squirted a bit of pine spray near the bed. Garrick’s nose wrinkled. “Now I want you to imagine it’s the night of a new moon. The world is dark, with the exception of a sky full of stars.” Faolan carefully watched Garrick’s reaction, noting how his breathing slowed with each softly spoken word. “Your wolf is relaxed, enjoying the cool night air against your skin, flowing through your hair. You’re sitting in front of a large, barred window. Nothing and no one else can be seen for miles. Forest surrounds this building. You’ve been taken prisoner and left in a lonely cell. You know the only reason you still live is that you are the entertainment for the lord of the castle. The sole company you’ve had in days is a silent man dressed all in black who brings you your meals.” Faolan paused, watching Garrick digest the story thus far. The nature sounds began to fade into the first strands of a classical piece he’d carefully selected. As the tone of the music deepened and darkened, he noticed Garrick’s breath changing and a fine trembling dancing beneath his skin. “Outside the room you hear the sharp click of boot heels, different from the pace of your regular handler.” As he spoke Faolan walked forward. He exaggerated each step, making his shoes strike the hardwood harder than necessary. Garrick licked his lips. He strained forward as far as his leash allowed while keeping his hands on the bed. Stopping right in front of him, Faolan stood silent for a long moment. Letting the anticipation build, he leaned forward, grazing Garrick’s smooth cheek with a single fingernail. “And how are we doing this evening, my pet?” He whispered an octave

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lower than normal, enjoying the way the sound of his voice sent tremors through Garrick. Garrick hissed and flinched beneath his touch. Faolan smiled, standing back to look his fill at Garrick’s naked form. He was so strong, with so much self-restraint—a restraint that Faolan couldn’t wait to break. Garrick needed the release Faolan could provide. No one should be so wrapped up in self-control all the time. Garrick had to cut loose or risk losing himself in his own selfdenial. As his new master, Faolan was now responsible for Garrick’s care, responsible for his pleasure and happiness. The self-imposed restraint had to go. But before Faolan broke his control, Garrick’s mind must open for him. What headspace did his scene send Garrick to? “Tell me what you see.” “Nothing, Master,” he answered quickly—too quickly. Faolan gazed at the ceiling and shook his head. Playing it literal, was he? He’d expected more from Garrick. “Not with your real eyes, pet. What do you see in your mind’s eye? What do you imagine?” Again Garrick licked his lips. That habit was too much of a turn-on but Faolan resisted the urge to let his tongue follow the same path, maybe nip at that full, moist lower lip. Garrick’s hands gripped the blanket beneath him once more. “You, Master.” Faolan surged forward, clenching Garrick’s chin between his thumb and forefinger. He leaned close enough for Garrick to feel his words against his mouth. “You are not being obedient. If you refuse to answer simple questions, there’s no way you want to be a full submissive. You are wasting my time and I hate waste. I admit that I like a bit of fire and strength in my pet but I expect simple obedience. Answer my question. Now!” Garrick shuddered but nodded beneath Faolan’s tight grip. “I…I see a commanding man. Not tall or looming. Not stern or foreboding. His presence and charisma makes him commanding, pulls you in and keeps your attention.” “A good start,” Faolan replied, releasing his chin before pushing for more. “But what does he look like?” “His features are sharp, softened by his wavy blond hair flowing down his back.” Garrick’s voice lost the fine tremor that laced it with each word he uttered. “He’s dressed all in black, pants and a leather vest. His military boots reach just below his knees.” Faolan glanced down at his outfit and grinned. Garrick might not be very creative but he had a good eye and memory. Either that or his outfit made a major impression on his new little pet. Still, Faolan wanted more from Garrick than a simple eyewitness recitation. He wanted a peek into the lupin’s personal fantasy world. “Does he carry anything? Do you know why he’s here?”

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“He has a flogger in one hand and he keeps slapping it against his palm,” Garrick stammered. He wiggled on the bed, his cock bobbing against his stomach. “He wants to keep me, train me.” “Train you for what?” Faolan walked away from the tempting tableau, back to the dresser to rummage quietly for an object stored near the back. “To be his.” “His what?” “Pet, slave.” Garrick panted as he leaned back and pulled against the leash, hands gripping the bedspread like an anchor. “Whatever he wants. I will be whatever he wants, do whatever he wants.” Garrick’s words affected him more than Faolan expected. “And you have no choice, no say in the matter. It isn’t your decision.” Garrick shook his head hard enough to send his curls dancing. “No, no thinking. No decisions. He is my everything. I don’t have anywhere else to go, wouldn’t think of doing anything against him. I’m helpless against him.” Faolan slapped the flogger he’d gotten from the cabinet against his palm. Garrick flinched at the sharp crack of leather against flesh but stayed seated. God and Goddess, he’d touched on Faolan’s most fervent wish. Faolan wanted to be everything to at least one person in this world. To mean that much to another soul—to matter. “No, you don’t have anywhere else to go, my pet, my puppy. You are mine. I have you now, to do with as I wish.” Garrick groaned, twisting and jerking but staying where Faolan had put him. Faolan slid his fingers into Garrick’s thick hair, enjoying the feel as his pup leaned up into his caress. “Oh, don’t be afraid, pet. I’ll be a kind owner, a kind master. I’ll take very excellent care of you, as long as you’re a good pet. You can be good, right? I won’t have to punish you for disobedience?” “No, Master.” Faolan sat beside him on the bed and ran the cool leather of his favorite flogger against Garrick’s warm skin. He shivered prettily. “Now what should I do first? What tricks should I teach my good little pet to do for me?” He paused, letting the silence draw out Garrick’s anticipation. “I know—a quick quiz. What is your safe word?” “Den.” “Good. Remember that. Now I think I want to examine my new pet.” Faolan put the flogger on the opposite side of the bed before reaching down and unbuckling the end of Garrick’s leash from the floor. He wrapped the leather around his fist until his knuckles grazed Garrick’s chin. Faolan used that grip to guide him. “Now scoot back and lie down.” Garrick obeyed without question. As he lay down, Faolan took Garrick’s right hand and raised it above his head. He slipped the cuff he’d hidden beneath a pillow around

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that hand, adjusting the Velcro fittings. Faolan gave it a quick tug and then repeated the process with Garrick’s left. Garrick never struggled and never resisted, which was a bit disappointing. Faolan had hoped he’d do something by now that would warrant later punishment. Instead he seemed too immersed in the role to consider struggling. In a way, Garrick continued to maintain his control. Faolan would have to see what he could do to strip him of that. “Nice.” Faolan ran his hands down his torso, noting each area that seemed particularly sensitive. The lupin had many hot spots to explore on his flesh that Faolan’s fingertip itched with the urge to search further. “Very nice. It seems being a wolf part of the time has its privileges.” Garrick dug his heels into the bed and arched into his caress. “Oh?” Faolan chuckled. His palms coasted across Garrick’s lightly haired chest. “You like to be petted, little wolf. You like feeling warm flesh stroking yours. Well, I like to touch. I like to know that my sub always realizes who owns him, even when we’re not playing our roles. The impression will stay in the back of your consciousness taunting you with images of my hands on your flesh.” He brushed his thumb across the seal of Garrick’s lips. “You belong to me now, so get used to the touching. My fingertips will know your body like no one else ever has.” “Yes.” Garrick tried to suck Faolan’s thumb into his mouth. A small smile danced across Faolan’s face as he pulled away—finally, strike one. “You’ve forgotten who owns your pleasure already. I’ll have to remember that when the time for punishment comes.” He moved his fingers back down to pinch Garrick’s nipples ever so lightly. “Yes what?” “Yes, Master,” Garrick all but howled as he pushed against Faolan’s hands. “Oh, my pet. Your nipples are so very sensitive. It’s a shame we can’t pierce them properly. But we can make do with clamps. I’ll get you a set with a fine chain running between them. With every tug you’ll think of me.” He whimpered, the sound sliding an answering grin across Faolan’s lips. “Yes, I think you can expect a nice little present from me before our next meeting.” Garrick shivered as Faolan raked his nails down his chest. His cock bobbed up, begging for Faolan’s attention. A single drop of precum topped the head. Faolan had to have a taste. Garrick gasped and did give a growl as, with a single lick, Faolan gathered him up for a taste—salty, thick and wild. “Mmm, nice. A bit untamed, just the way I like it.” “Please, Master,” he begged, arching up. Faolan chuckled. “Oh, I intend to. But all in my good time, pet. I have to be certain you have no imperfections and test your endurance. Such things are important in choosing a good pet.”

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He stepped back to gaze down at his feast. Damn, whatever else might be said about the man, Garrick was one hell of a gorgeous specimen. If the Fae ever discovered what they’d been missing in their blind prejudice there would be no worry about war. Instead the worldwide missing persons reports would take a dramatic leap. But Garrick’s whole demeanor tonight called for a slight change of plans. Faolan hadn’t thought to push him yet. Instead he’d planned on giving Garrick a gentle acclimatization. Faolan had thought to create a sweet, slow, carefully guided fantasy— something intense but still tinged with a bit of romance. But Garrick held so still, followed every easy command. He was still so in control. How was Faolan to find Garrick’s limits without pushing him harder? Damn if it didn’t look like his pet needed things to be a little rougher. Faolan left Garrick’s side and walked back to the dresser. Perhaps his little drawer would give him some inspiration.

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Chapter Ten Trapped in utter darkness, Garrick held still, head cocked and ears straining for the slightest hint of sound. What was Faolan doing and what did he have planned? He’d stood over Garrick for what seemed an eternity, just looking. Garrick felt the weight of his stare. What was he thinking? Garrick lost track of time and place. Faolan was still there, wasn’t he? Shouldn’t he be doing something, saying something? What was he thinking? Then he heard Faolan’s footsteps moving away from him. He listened to the strike of each footfall, noticed how the other man’s sweet scent faded a bit as he left him. The dresser was on the other side of the room. Garrick’s nerves twitched at the thought of Faolan way over there. That’s where Faolan kept his toys. That’s where the flogger had been. Who knew what else was in that massive toy chest? What is Faolan planning? Will I be able to obey him? Garrick resisted the urge to snort. Of course he could. What was he thinking? But did he want to? And would his stomach always be filled with these butterflies when they played? Then he noticed a soft sound beneath the growing music. Humming—Faolan was humming. Was he happy or bored or what? Garrick twisted his wrists to take hold of the chains connecting his bonds to the bedposts. So many questions and so many stark emotions bombarded him. He hadn’t known what to expect, no matter how many websites he’d visited or chat rooms he’d mingled in. Living out a scene was very different than imaging or reading about one. He thought his master would order him to do naughty things to him, have Garrick serve him. Garrick had pictures in his mind of worshiping his kind or wicked master, answering his every whim. That would be easy. Faolan’s approach wasn’t what he’d expected, this total focus on Garrick as opposed to his master. He wasn’t sure if he liked not knowing what to expect. He wasn’t sure if he didn’t like it either. Garrick felt the bed dip to one side and braced himself for Faolan’s touch. Faolan’s hands on his body felt like magic, making Garrick wonder is there might not be more to the stories of faerie enchantments than their spell-casting abilities. A trail of electric heat spread from those hands as they skipped over him. But he fought to do as his master commanded. The only command his master gave was for him to stay still. Garrick was Alpha. Surely he could control himself that much.

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But the sound of the flogger snapping near his ear sent him jerking. “Too bad you’re not quite ready to feel the bite of leather against your skin,” Faolan purred. “Soon, I think, but not yet.” He knew how to respond to that statement. “Whatever you desire, Master.” Faolan sighed. Disappointed? Why did he sound disappointed? “Of course it will be my desire but you answer me too quickly. Do you put that much faith in me or in Divine Intervention? While I’m flattered at the thought that you trust me so soon, it makes me worry about you at the same time. What about your instincts? What are they telling you?” His master didn’t move to touch him again, leaving him alone to ponder in the darkness. What did he feel? Anticipation. A little anxiety. A touch of embarrassment. Not enough to touch his cock and take care of things himself though. Desire overwhelmed all other feelings. Surprisingly Garrick had no wish to take control of the situation. The cuffs that held him were only leather and Velcro, not silver or enchanted. It would take little effort to break free. Hell, a human with a little ingenuity could find a way to undo the buckles. But the ride was all that mattered. He didn’t want the ride to end. And hell, having the entire focus of a man like Faolan trained on him, what could he have to complain about? But Faolan waited for his answer. “I want to experience whatever you give.” Garrick weighed his next words but they felt right on his tongue. Even his wolf seemed content here. “I trust my master not to do me harm. You won’t hurt me.” The bed dipped again. This time he felt the whisper of lips against his chest. Faolan’s silky hair tickled his side as he explored his body with mouth, teeth and tongue. Garrick’s blood burst into flames under Faolan’s soft kisses and gentle nibbles. Then he set teeth to Garrick’s nipples. As hard as he tried, Garrick couldn’t stop his gasp. His cock throbbed. Garrick tightened his grasp around the chain connecting the cuffs to the bedposts, jerking them. Control—he had to keep control. Faolan gave a dark chuckle. “I’d say you didn’t like that but your cock tells a different story.” His finger gathered another drop of precum and smeared it around the head. When Faolan grazed the spot right under the glans with his fingernail, Garrick’s balls drew up tight to his body, aching. “I love a sensitive man.” Faolan cupped his balls and rolled them in his palm. While firm, the touch was anything but comforting. Garrick loved having his balls caressed just like that. Just on the edge of rough without crossing the line. He gnashed his teeth to keep from howling. “You have no idea how beautiful you look.” Garrick shivered at the low dark tone of Faolan’s voice. “All laid out for me like a sensual feast, straining to reach your pleasure. But not yet, pet. Not yet. We still have so much to explore tonight.” 56

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I can hold on. I can take anything you can dish out. Maybe faeries could read minds. Because the moment he thought that, he felt Faolan’s tongue flick just below his glans, teasing. Garrick arched toward him, digging his heels into the bed. He had to have the feel of that mouth. He needed it. Faolan put his palm on Garrick’s stomach and pushed him back down. He felt his master scoot up next to him, Faolan’s flowing hair blazing a path up his chest and tickling his neck. His warm breath lapped behind Garrick’s ear. “How much do you want it? What would you do to have me swallow your cock? What would you do to have me suck until you shoot off, filling my mouth or maybe decorating my face? What will you offer me for that privilege?” Garrick’s entire body clenched as he imagined Faolan’s face painted with his cum. “Anything. Anything at all. Please, Master. Please.” Faolan lapped at his cock from base to tip. “Begging is a good start. I like the sound of a strong man begging. But I want more. I want to see you dancing under my hand. I want to feel heat coming off your skin. I want to watch your ass turn red for me. Do you think you can control your wolf long enough to give me what I want?” Garrick trembled, torn between conflicting desires. He craved what Faolan offered with a dark desperation of a dream too long denied. Still, he felt his wolf pacing deep inside him. It didn’t know if he wanted freedom or not. But he was Alpha. He could hold the beast back. He could keep his wolf leashed. And if he couldn’t, this whole thing had been a waste of time. “Yes, Master. For you. I will for you.” Faolan’s fingers traced his thighs, setting muscle to quiver. “Because when we’re here, and that collar is around your neck, you are mine.” “Yours. I’m yours.” With no warning wet warmth enveloped his cock to the root. Garrick felt himself hit the back of Faolan’s throat before his master started sucking—hard and without any tentative licks or caresses. Going straight to business, the suction of Faolan’s mouth on his cock ripped through Garrick. Damn, he wished he didn’t have the blindfold. But Garrick could imagine what Faolan looked like. His lush red lips wrapped around his cock, feeding from him. His pale cheeks hollowed with the power of his sucking. His fingers squeezed Garrick’s thighs in time with the pull of his mouth as he swallowed one more inch. His tongue stud danced across Garrick’s hardened flesh, teasing, tempting and tormenting. His golden hair curled around Garrick’s inner thighs, a warm contrast to his sun-darkened skin. What Garrick wouldn’t give to see that. His jaws ached, Garrick’s first clue that he was clenching his teeth. He wasn’t going to last long. Not like this. His balls ached and he felt the telltale tingle building at the base of his spine. He was so close. So very close.

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Then Faolan backed off and his tongue teased the slit in Garrick’s cock, that evil metal stud teasing the opening as his hand gave one final pump. Garrick cried out, thrashing in the bed as he shot over and over. Hot rivers of cum splashed across his stomach. Faolan whispered to him in soothing tones as he came. Garrick didn’t understand the words but felt safety surround him. His new master continued holding his cock, gently rubbing with each of his spasms. With his other hand Faolan petted his chest and kept Garrick from straining too hard against the cuffs. When Garrick’s body finally decided it couldn’t move anymore, Faolan placed a single kiss on his lips and moved off the bed. Garrick’s mouth tingled and he licked his lips to savor the sweet yet spicy flavor. He didn’t know where Faolan went and he couldn’t pull enough energy together to really care. As long as he came back soon. Garrick wanted Faolan in his arms next to him. He could hear footsteps moments before Faolan’s fresh scent wrapped itself around his senses. Something warm and damp slid across his stomach and around his cock, cleaning the stickiness of his cum. “Close your eyes.” He did as he was told. It never occurred to him not to. He felt Faolan’s fingers working the Velcro holding the blindfold together at the back of his head. After the cloth was removed he blinked several times to adjust to the light. Faolan stared down at him from the side of the bed, his expression unreadable. Garrick would hate to play poker against the man if he could keep his appearance unaffected after that. But he noticed a drop of his cum dotting Faolan’s smooth cheek. His master scooped it up on the tip of his finger. He stared at it for a moment with a mysterious grin. He licked it up with the tip of his tongue, eyes closing as he savored the flavor. Garrick felt his heart race at the action and flashed a tentative smile. “Does this mean we’re finished for the night?” Faolan arched one brow as one side of his mouth curled up. “Do you still have your collar on?” He swallowed, savoring the tight feel of leather around his neck. Garrick felt hot and wired just from that small restraint. “Yes.” “Then no, we aren’t finished for the night. You made a promise to me. You have to take the punishment you chose to accept for your pleasure.” Faolan reached over and undid Garrick’s cuffs. With wrists free, Garrick sat up and scooted to the edge of the bed. Faolan sat down beside him. “Over my knees, pet.” Garrick bit back the urge to laugh. But Faolan’s expression left no room for argument. He did as ordered, feeling completely silly butt up and nude across another man’s lap.

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Faolan rubbed his bare ass until Garrick’s shoulders relaxed. Garrick sagged into a more comfortable position, his upper body braced on his elbows. That felt damn good. Even his wolf loved the glide of a lover’s hand over his body. “Now, we’re starting slow,” Faolan said, startling him out of his happy place. “But you have to expect punishment when you’ve broken a rule or if you choose to take it in order to get your own pleasure. Tonight you chose your own pleasure over mine and thus deserve your punishment. But I need to know something before we go on. Do you trust me?” “Yes, Master.” “Do you deserve whatever punishment I choose to mete out?” A fine trembling raced across Garrick’s body at the words but he stayed across Faolan’s knees. As much as the thought of punishment bothered his wolf, the man in him craved it. “Yes, Master.” “Then we’ll start with a simple spanking, warm up this tight ass.” Faolan raked his nails across Garrick’s right cheek, laughing lightly as he twitched. “I can’t wait to make this glow under my hand. A tough Alpha like you should be able to take that and then some. But you do remember your safe word?” “Den,” Garrick sighed, wiggling against Faolan’s legs in impatience like the puppy he’d earlier called him. He just couldn’t seem to help himself. “If things get too intense or you need a moment to talk things out, say ‘den’ and I’ll stop and we’ll talk. I’m trusting you to remain aware of how much you can handle. But don’t use it lightly. I want to help you discover your limits. Tonight isn’t about crossing or breaking them.” Garrick started to nod but Faolan gave him a quick swat. He flinched first from the sharp crack. It took a moment longer for the zip of pain to register. Faolan was strong for such a delicate, almost ethereal-looking man. At the same time, the slap didn’t hurt like Garrick imagined it would. And the heat left behind seemed to spread to his cock. “I want you to count off,” Faolan growled. “Starting now.” “One.” “One what?” Garrick swallowed at Faolan’s ominous tone. “One, Master.” “Forgetting will double your spanking, my bad puppy.” Damn but he sounded happy about that. “Ten. Now count.” Swat. Shit, that stung. “Two, Master.” Swat. “Three, Master.” Swat, swat. Garrick wiggled again, trying to get comfortable. Difficult to do with a tingling ass and hardening cock. And he almost lost count. “Four and five, Master.”

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Faolan paused for a moment, resting his palm against Garrick’s warm ass. “My, but your skin reddens so quickly. I can’t wait to see how you heat up beneath a flogger. How is your wolf holding?” Garrick blinked. He hadn’t even thought about it. He’d been too caught up in surprise as his body took such pleasure in the punishment, practically melting under the onslaught. Hell, even after Faolan’s amazing blowjob, his cock was already hard and leaking again from a simple spanking. Garrick hadn’t even thought about his wolf until Faolan mentioned it. “He’s behaving, Master.” Actually, he was more than fine. The wolf seemed to enjoy the rough handling as much as Garrick’s human side. A soft hand rubbed circles on his back. “Let me know the moment that changes. You may not want to call ‘den’ but we need to keep an eye out.” The next swat sang through the air. Damn but his master could pack a punch. He’d never doubt the smaller man’s strength. Faolan was a fit rival for any lupin. “Six, Master.” A staccato of swats rained down. Garrick gasped and fought not to leap to his feet. “Seven, eight and nine, Master.” The last sting came as a relief. “Ten, Master.” Faolan slid his hand down from Garrick’s tingling buttocks to cup his balls and glide a single finger against the underside of his aching cock. “Good. I think my new puppy likes a bit of pain with his pleasure. Did my bad doggie like his punishment?” “Oh yes, Master,” Garrick breathed. He tensed, expecting Faolan to push him off his lap right away. Instead Faolan held him in position and reached over beside him. He fumbled for a moment. Then Garrick felt something cool pour over his angry skin. Faolan smoothed the soothing lotion deep before stopping to run his fingers down his back. “You took it so well.” Pride colored Faolan’s voice. “Do you think you can take a bit more?” “Whatever you want, Master,” Garrick breathed. His muscles felt utterly relaxed and ready for the next round. He’d pleased his master but Garrick wanted to do even more for him. Faolan leaned over and kissed the nape of Garrick’s neck, sending goose bumps to coat his body. “Very good. You’re learning. But what do you want?” “I want to come again,” he answered with ease, rubbing his aching cock against Faolan’s thighs to make his point. “That much I know.” Faolan’s light chuckle filled the air. “So be it. Stand. I want to see my new pet stand at attention.” Garrick scrambled to his feet. He wasn’t going to disappoint Faolan and lose his chance at a reward. His ass throbbed a bit but most of the pain was gone thanks to the lotion. Only a hint of the warmth that spread to his hard cock remained.

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“Hands clasped behind your back. Thrust out your pelvis and keep your eyes down.” Garrick rushed to obey the command. He assumed the position, pushing his cock out. He kept his eyes down and could see a single drop of precum glistening at the tip in anticipation. His master stood and walked around him. “My but you are big all over.” Faolan flicked his finger across the head of Garrick’s cock, collecting the moisture. He stuck his finger in his mouth and tasted Garrick again with a smile. The hungry look in his eyes caused Garrick’s stomach to clench. He gasped and rocked forward on his toes. “You are feeling needy, aren’t you?” his master asked, though not sounding displeased with the possibility. “Yes, Master.” “And you’re willing to do whatever I ask to get what you want?” He watched Faolan’s boots walk back and forth in front of him. How much could he take? What would Faolan give him when he obeyed? “Yes, Master.” “I’m in the mood to test your wolf a bit further. Walk to the far wall and put your palms against it.” Garrick’s cock jerked at the thought of what Faolan might do to him now. Garrick stood against the wall and listened as Faolan rifled through the chest on the other side of the room. Faolan would click his tongue occasionally, the sound followed by him putting something down. Finally he gave a hum of approval and moved behind Garrick. Faolan kicked at Garrick’s feet, throwing him off balance. “Spread ‘em, pup, and bend forward. I want a good angle at your ass and I want to see those balls swing.” Garrick whimpered but arched his back and thrust his ass at him. “Do you want to know what to expect, pup, or should I keep it as a surprise?” Faolan all but purred behind him. “Your choice, Master.” “Oh, I think you enjoy the element of surprise. I like that. I like that a lot.” There was a swish as something hard slapped against the top of Garrick’s sore ass. He yelped and hopped forward. Faolan grabbed him by the hair and yanked his head up. “Oh, no,” he growled in Garrick’s ear before releasing him. “That wasn’t very graceful. I want to see your ass roll not watch you hopping like a frog. This is a just a medium leather paddle. More noise than sting, not like the flogger would be. Can’t the big bad wolf take a little paddling?” Garrick pursed his lips but bent forward and braced his feet again, bending his knees slightly for support. “My apologies, Master. It surprised me.”

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“Well, you’ll have to do better than that.” Faolan paused for a long moment. The anticipation set Garrick’s nerves even tighter. “How about we make it worth more to you?” “How so, Master?” Garrick licked his lips as he waited for a reply. Faolan paused for a long moment, leaving Garrick to wonder if he’d really wanted Garrick to ask. Finally his Master replied, “If you can take ten licks with the paddle with a certain amount of grace, I’ll give you what you say you want. I’ll let you come in my hand again. Twenty and I’ll take your cock in my mouth again and suck you dry, maybe even swallow this time.” Goddess, nothing ever sounded so good. “If you wish it, Master.” Faolan chuckled. “So very polite for a naughty puppy. You’re in luck tonight. I do wish it. I love the taste of cock, warm, salty cum sliding across my tongue. It’s one of my favorite rewards to give since we’ll both enjoy it so much. Are you ready to earn it?” “Yes, Master. I’ll take the twenty.” He walked around to face Garrick, placing the edge of the paddle under his chin to guide Garrick’s gaze back to his face. “But not a sound. You’ll have to hold that wolf of yours in check. If I hear so much as a growl, we stop. If I hear anything before you take your ten, I leave you hard and wanting.” “I can take it,” Garrick panted, toes trying to dig into the hardwood. “Please, Master. I know I can take it.” Faolan nodded and stepped behind him once more. He gave him no warning but the rush of air. Garrick jerked beneath the blow but managed to stay quiet. “Careful. You want to keep that mouth of yours closed.” Garrick nodded, shuffling his legs apart more for better balance. He took a few deep breaths, centered his mind and tried to find a peaceful place inside himself to hide in. “Good. Now here we go.” One blow after another, Faolan paddled him. Garrick fought to control himself. His wolf paced inside, not certain how to react. He felt pain but could detect no threat. Garrick could almost see him winding around, searching and deciding if he needed to come out and defend himself and his position. The telltale sting stabbed through his gums as they stretched to accommodate his sharper canines sliding down over his human teeth. Garrick’s vision blurred before snapping back in crisp black and white. He could feel the rumbling growl of his wolf moving up his throat. He fought the urge, fought himself. He wanted to please his new master and prove he was worth the effort it would take to train him. And Garrick wanted so badly to feel Faolan’s soft lips wrapped around his aching cock again. Goddess, he wanted it. But it was so hard to fight, so hard to resist.

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Finally the wolf had to come out, had to be heard. It was howl or sprout hair to match the claws curling at his fingertips. The sound tore its way from Garrick’s throat, louder than the sound of leather-encased wood striking flesh. The paddle stopped immediately. “Sixteen,” Faolan said, a bit of pride evident in his tone. “Not bad. Not quite twenty but more than I thought your wolf could take.” Garrick whimpered, shoulders sagging as he felt Faolan’s warmth move away from his back. But he returned quickly, wrapping his arms around Garrick’s waist and pressing against his back. The leather of his vest slid against Garrick’s heated skin, drawing another moan from him. “Shh. I promised I would take care of you. A good master never breaks his promise.” Garrick glanced down as one delicate hand grasped his cock and another slid down to cup his tight balls. Faolan swiped his thumb over the head, spreading the precum. It didn’t take more than three twisting pumps before Garrick shot over his stomach again. His claws dug into the walls as his legs shook under the pressure of his release. But Garrick’s gums stopped aching and he could see the brown of the paneling as his wolf slowly retreated. “Glad I’m good with repairs. Looks like you could be hard on your surroundings.” Faolan produced another warm washcloth and wiped him with a gentle hand. Then he soothed more lotion across Garrick’s heated skin. Finished, he turned Garrick to face him. Garrick expected to see some measure of disappointment. He hadn’t made twenty as he claimed he could. Instead Faolan’s grass green eyes sparkled with pride and pleasure. “Come with me. I think we need to talk.” Faolan helped him lie on the bed then stretched out beside him. He curled up next to Garrick, placing one delicate hand across his chest. “How do you feel?” “Strange…sorry,” Garrick murmured, his heavy eyes trying to close. So tired. “Sorry as in regret?” “Only that I couldn’t hold out.” Garrick had never come before seeing to his partner. He’d always been expected to be the caretaker, not the one being cared for. That was the very definition of being Alpha of the pack. He wasn’t sure how being taken care of sat with him. “And I haven’t had a chance to give you pleasure.” “Oh, there are many different types of pleasure, as I will be happy to teach you. You pleased me tonight. And you shouldn’t feel bad. This was a test. Not just of how much you can handle. It was a chance to see how much control you have over your wolf and what I should look for when you’re reaching your limits.” Faolan slid his fingers through Garrick’s hair. “Even with your safe word, I should be aware if you’re crossing your limits. Though it is ultimately your responsibility to watch out for yourself and be aware of what you can handle and when to use your safe word, I

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should have a solid idea of what that barrier is for you in order to test it without forcing you to use that word. As time goes on I’ll push you further and further. But I’ve never been with a lupin before and I needed to know how to read you, to discover some of your tells. For that you did well. You pleased me.” “But I came and you didn’t. Twice.” Damn. I do sound like a pouting pup. “So what? Sometimes it will be my desire to come but leave you wanting. Trust me, pet, it will even out in the end.” Faolan cuddled closer into Garrick’s side, throwing one leg over both of his. “Feel better now?” “I guess. Clearer at least. Tired and a bit,” he chuckled, “drained.” Faolan grinned. “Why don’t you sleep? I’ll wake you before morning and we’ll set up our next meeting.” Garrick nodded, relaxing into the soft mattress. Faolan laid his head on Garrick’s chest, his body wrapped in his embrace.

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Chapter Eleven A little red-haired girl in a pink nightgown crouched at Faolan’s feet, tears trailing down her soft cheeks to form paths on her dirty face. The darkened maze of trees seemed to loom over the child. But her terror showed clear in the flickering light of the magical orb cupped in her hands. Monsters from her deepest nightmares, ones who’d killed her parents, hunted her. Worse, they’d found her. Faolan, the most skilled assassin of the Fae, had found her. He knew others had already taken out the child’s parents. They were the priority targets on this mission. Intel said that the witch and warlock had developed a debilitating curse to be used against the Fae, one that threatened to bring the wars to an abrupt and bloody end. The queen ordered the elimination of the entire family before their work could be used or passed to others. So Faolan stared down at the horror gripping this girl, a girl five, maybe six mortal years old. Light green eyes shone out of the round, baby-soft face. So alone and so innocent, her life would end in a dark forest filled with terror. God and Goddess, how had his noble race come to this, to murdering children in the night? That was the job of the Dark Fae, not his people. Faolan glanced down at the deadly glow enveloping his hands, a hex ready to be released. Could he do this? Could he actually snuff out this young life for no other reason than what ethnic group she’d been born into and what her parents may or may not have taught her? But what would happen to him if he reported back to his mother after disobeying a direct royal decree? It would be the third time he’d rebelled against her. Refusing his arranged marriage and talking about peace was one thing. Flagrant disobedience of Her Majesty in a time of war was another. “Please,” the child begged, her voice breaking with the power of her sobs. “Don’t hurt me. I’ll be good.”

***** Faolan gasped as he woke, his hands glowing with barely leashed power. He flexed his fingers, releasing the magic without blowing anything up. Damn, how many decades would it take for the flashbacks to stop? Little Gwen. Not so little now. The true cause of his exile, though none but Faolan and the queen herself knew that. Yet Faolan never regretted his actions that night. While he couldn’t save the girl’s parents, he had rescued Gwen.

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And in doing so, he’d set in motion the end of the Para Wars. Gwen turned out to be a very persuasive young witch, a truly gifted orator. Within a decade she became the human-descended force behind the Cross Para Peace Accord. And now maybe the God and Goddess were ready to forgive Faolan for all he’d done before that night, before he came to his senses and refused to add another small life to the carnage. Maybe a massive and powerful but kind-hearted lupin ready to explore his need to submit to another on occasion was their way of rewarding him for risking so much to stand up for what he thought was right. Faolan lay back in his empty bed, letting the morning sun nudge him fully awake. He hugged a pillow and allowed himself a moment to pout. Last night had been a wonderful start. But he wished his pup was still wrapped in his arms. Garrick had woken after an hour and they’d spent the rest of the evening talking before he’d left to shower and change at his own home. Part of Faolan wasn’t sure he would survive getting his hopes up only to watch them be dashed. But damn if he didn’t hope things worked out with Garrick. He’d been alone so long and Garrick was everything he’d ever imagined in a permanent sub— strong, caring, a little tentative but still challenging enough. Garrick worried about his day-to-day life and how it would affect their budding relationship. Faolan felt Garrick would be the perfect foil for him. He didn’t want someone as a 24/7 slave. If he’d wanted to enslave other paras he’d have stayed in the good graces of his queen. He just wanted someone who shared his particular kink but could still be an intelligent partner in the outside world, someone to share with and care for. Of course the facts that Garrick was lupin and his Fae family would completely disapprove of the relationship were added bonuses as far as Faolan was concerned. He crossed his eyes at the thought of his family, scrunching further beneath the covers. Damn. Every time he thought about them, one dropped by for a visit before the day was out. He wondered who’d drawn the unlucky straw this time. As the sun climbed high in the sky Faolan finally pulled on a pair of black satin pajama bottoms and padded barefoot to his studio. He’d promised not to draw any nudes of Garrick until they’d built a stronger trust between them. But that didn’t prevent him from sketching Garrick. If Faolan didn’t put the man’s face to paper soon, solidify the memory, it would drive him mad. Faolan grabbed a sketchbook from his bookshelf and plopped down on the couch that sat against one glass wall. His hand flew across the paper. Each stroke brought features into clearer focus. Beneath his fingers the wide mouth and chiseled chin took shape. Garrick’s deep, penetrating eyes blazed from the page. His thick hair begged for fingers to slide through, stroke and tug. He turned the page. In this sketch Faolan concentrated on the way Garrick’s eyes crinkled when he laughed. He caught the single, shallow dimple that creased his left cheek.

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Next page Faolan struggled to catch that look on Garrick’s face, the one where he struggled so hard to please—Garrick fighting against the urge to come. His teeth, gritted, peeked out between thin lips. Garrick’s eyes clenched shut. He had his head tossed back, his curls damp with sweat. Faolan spent several minutes getting the straining muscles in Garrick’s neck just right. “Very nice. Attractive.” A long shadow rose up behind him, blocking out the light. Faolan grimaced, eyes straining to continue drawing. The deep, familiar male voice continued as if he hadn’t been blatantly snubbed. “Not worth staying here for but an interesting distraction for the time being, I’m sure.” Faolan continued ignoring his visitor, scooting lightly to the side to regain his lighting until the last pencil stroke was perfect. Then he closed his book and sat it on his lap. He didn’t bother looking up. “So you lost the bet this time, Teague. To what do I owe the honor of your presence, brother mine? Or should I even waste my time asking?” The tall blond faerie spread his wings out, careful not to crush the delicate membranes as he moved around the couch. He sat down on the stool facing Faolan. “It’s more of the same. And you must admit it’s been a while, a good century since my last visit. Mother wishes to know if you’re over your insanity yet. She’s offering you a chance at full clemency.” With a smirk, Faolan leaned back on the couch, getting as comfortable as possible. He tilted his head and arched a single eyebrow. “And what do you think my answer will be?” Teague snorted and flapped his wings. The smile he flashed was both amused and apologetic. “I think that Mother is wasting my time again and shouldn’t hold her breath. But you are the eldest male in our family. Technically you are next in line for the crown. You must expect her to try from time to time.” Faolan resisted the urge to laugh outright at the absurdity of his brother’s claim. “That’s a joke. Mother is immortal and has no intention of ever giving up her position. Hand her power over to another? Like that would ever happen. Even if she did completely lose her mind and step down, I have six brothers, eight sisters and innumerable nieces, nephews and cousins. She doesn’t need me. More to the point, she doesn’t want me. The only reason she sent you is that she hates losing and as long as I’m here, she has lost.” Teague sat back and made a point of looking disdainfully around the room before speaking. “You’re stuck here in the mortal realm until you shape up, apologize and take your rightful place at her side. I hardly see that as her losing.” “I remain here and I am happy or at least content. She sees that as a failure on her part. She wanted me punished.” Faolan clicked his tongue stud against his teeth. “I am not the least bit repentant.”

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Teague shook his head and sighed. “You’ll never change. We all realize that. Mother is the only holdout.” “I know.” “We miss you. I miss you.” He paused, eyes dark and full of sorrow. For a moment his thousand years of life seemed to sit heavy on Teague’s shoulders. “Court isn’t the same without you there to liven it up.” Faolan laughed off his brother’s words, afraid to put too much meaning in them. He didn’t like seeing Teague so shaken but couldn’t give him what their mother wanted. “I’m certain you’ll manage.” His brother nodded. Before Faolan could react Teague took the sketchbook from his lap and thumbed through his morning’s work. “Your talent has grown. Mother should be proud. Is this a lover?” Damn but that word “lover” made his heart go thump, leaving a warm glow behind. Very unmanly and at odds with the persona he tried to cultivate. “Not quite but he may become so.” “Mother would approve of your tastes. He’s quite handsome.” Not if she knew he wasn’t human. “I’ve never cared much for Mother’s approval.” Teague’s booming laugh rolled through the room. His wings fluttered, sending out a light, glittering coat of dust in time with his mirth. It took him a few moments before he had enough control to speak. “Really, you don’t care about what Mother thinks? I never would’ve guessed. I’m positively shocked.” Suddenly the teasing, joy-filled expression melted from his face, leaving a bleak parody of a smile in its wake. “You know she hates it when one of us returns from these little visits with the same news as always.” “I know. But at least you’re one of her favorites.” Faolan reached back to scratch at the edge of his wings, still held against his skin. The rings set in his skin chimed softly against each other. “She shouldn’t punish you too harshly.” Teague was strangely silent for a moment, a dark shadow tripping behind his eyes. “If she did, would you come back?” Faolan looked closely at his brother’s grim expression. “No, but I’d invite you to stay here.” His brother forced a laugh, voice creaking with obvious effort. “No thank you. My daughter would have my wings.” There was something there, something he wasn’t saying. But Faolan wasn’t exactly sure how to broach the subject. They’d once been very close but it had been decades since he and Teague spent any real time together. “I’d heard of your marriage. Are you happy?” “Luckily enough, yes. As you say, I am one of Mother’s favorites. She gave me some input into her selection. I just wish my wife was still with me but the God and

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Goddess had other plans. At least she left me with a beautiful daughter who keeps her old man in check.” “Lucky you,” Faolan grumbled, thinking back on his own brush with matrimony. It was enough to sour his stomach. “Is that really why you’ve never come back, even though Her Majesty seems to have forgiven you?” Teague asked, stunned. “Did you dislike her choice that much? If so, he’s married another now. You could return without any worry on that account.” Faolan thought of the pompous, overbearing lout his mother introduced him to as his fiancé so many centuries ago. As though marrying him off to that fool would have curbed Faolan’s vocal disapproval of a war that was killing off their people for no good reason. As if that would reel the queen’s greatest assassin back into the fold. He fought not to shudder at the image. That man’s poor spouse—to be stuck with that boor must be so dreary. “It is one reason, that and the fact that I wasn’t free to speak my mind or do as I wished with my life. But I might’ve stuck it out if it weren’t for the fiancé, tried to work within Mother’s rules. Now that just stands out as the final straw. Mother never knew me and will never understand me. There is no way I can be happy in Otherworld, trapped under her thumb.” Teague shrugged. “If it makes you feel any better, most of us understand.” He paused for a moment, as though searching for words that were almost painful. “Many of us are even proud of you, though you would never find a Fae who would admit it.” Faolan stared at him for a moment before nearly falling off the couch with a peal of laughter. “Right, I so believe that. Get on with you. Give Mother my answer and leave me alone for another decade or so.” Teague stood, stretching his wings out and fluttering them. “Believe it or not, there are more in the court than you would suspect who are proud of you and miss you.” Remembering the pompousness and political intrigues of court, Faolan hardly thought so. “Well, they’ll just have to continue being proud from a distance.” “I’ll let Mother know your decision.” Teague shook his wings, releasing a massive sparkle of faerie dust from the pouches throughout the membranes. Swirling the twinkling bits of raw magick around him, he opened a portal to Otherworld. Delicate, mind-altering music punctuated with pipes and tinkling bells filled the air. Faolan cringed as the too-cutesy sounds grated his nerves. Give him some old-school Ramones of even Linkin Park any day. Heavy, thrashing beats and slightly antisocial or at least angry, angst-filled lyrics—that was truth. That was a far better reflection of what Otherworld was really like than the everpresent dulcet melody that signaled the opening of the way. Teague stepped through the tear in reality with a mocking bow in his direction. “As the humans would say, later, Bro.” Faolan smirked. As if he’d know what humans said these days. Teague hadn’t spent more than a few hours in the mortal world in decades. He couldn’t, thanks to the Cross Para Accord. Only exiles were allowed here now, with the occasional day pass for 69

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people like Teague to visit family. But it was nice to see him again, as opposed to many of the other family members Queen Odelina sent his way. Oh well. None of Faolan’s family was brave enough to stand up to his mother but at least some of them still thought of him fondly. He started sketching again but barely made a stroke before a knock sounded at the back door, just off his studio. He smiled this time, knowing exactly who he’d find. This would be a more welcome interruption. Aindreas stepped in carrying a small tray with two large Starbucks cups. He wrinkled his nose as soon as he stepped through the door. “I was expecting maybe the aroma of wild monkey sex, not the nasty dusty smell of Otherworld guests. Who paid you a visit this time?” “Teague.” His friend nodded as he sat the coffee-loaded to-go tray down on his table. “At least it wasn’t one of your sisters. Your brother’s a bit on the whipped side but your sisters are some vicious bitches.” “I can’t disagree with you there.” Faolan chuckled. He reached for his latte, tugging it from the holder and hissing as a bit spilled out on his hand. Trust Aindreas to use magic to keep his coffee hot. Faolan lapped at the reddened flesh. “Unfortunately, they take more after dear old Mom, not any of their fathers.” “I can guess what Teague wanted, right?” “Same as always, I think.” Faolan paused for a second, pursing his lips as he thought about how Teague had looked to him. “He seemed a bit off though. Something else may be brewing.” “Don’t go thinking about your screwed-up family now. They’re an Otherworld away.” Aindreas waved off his concern as he plopped down in an oversized chair. “You need to concentrate more on the task at hand—namely your new sub. Now spill.” Faolan arched his brow. “Spill?” He sat back down, setting his cup on the coffee table, and picked up his sketchbook again. He almost had the shading right in the last picture. “What, you thought I came bearing lattes out of the kindness of my heart? I want to know how it went. I mean it was my idea in the first place.” “And you want your accolades.” Faolan put down his pad and took another drink of his gifted latte. It wasn’t as if he’d get any work done with Aindreas around anyway. “It was a good beginning.” “How good?” Aindreas leered, wagging his eyebrows. Faolan resisted the urge to chuckle, just barely. “Good enough that I’ll respect his wishes and not kiss and tell, even to you.” His friend pouted, lips puckered in a moue and arms crossed. “Not even a hint? You are keeping him, right?” 70

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Closing his eyes for a moment, Faolan brought to mind a picture of Garrick as he’d been last night, bound and so willing to please. “Here’s a hint. You should stop worrying about me so much and put your own paperwork in with Divine Intervention. Otherwise, I will.” Aindreas smiled, eyes sparkling as he bounced a bit on his seat and clapped. “First, I get to say it. You promised if it worked I’d get to say it.” Faolan rolled his eyes but grinned. “Go ahead.” “I told you so.” “You did,” Faolan agreed readily. He had no problem with agreeing that his friend was right as long as Aindreas realized turnabout was fair play. “But now it’s your turn, my friend.” “So you’re sure enough about Garrick to throw me to the wolves next?” “Well, first I can’t guarantee that you’ll get a wolf too.” Faolan rolled his eyes as his friend gave a look of mock despair. “But I’m pretty damn sure. I like him, really like him. It could easily become more if I let it.” Aindreas leaned forward, perching on the edge of his seat. He practically radiated expectation. “And the sex is good.” Faolan laughed at the eager look on the elf’s thin face. “Yes, already. He’s good. Very, very good.” “Obedient?” “So far.” Aindreas crossed his arms and threw himself back in the chair. “Well, that’s no fun,” he grumbled. “I’ll have to talk to him about the joys of being a bad, bad boy.” “Now, none of that. I’m just getting started with him. No corrupting him this early in the process.” “True, that’s your job.” “Don’t you know it,” Faolan replied with a wink. “And I plan on doing my job quite well later tonight. So don’t even consider dropping by for an unannounced visit this evening. I’d hate to have to turn you into a toad for interrupting us.” “Yeah, toad sex is no fun. Now, if the body were human-sized and the tongue a little less sticky, it’d have some possibilities…” Okay, that’s an appalling mental image. Faolan contemplated smacking his friend for putting that in his head. “Please, that’s just disgusting and it’s too early in the morning for it.” “Yeah, yeah.” Aindreas waved him off. “Like it didn’t occur to you.” Faolan shook his head and took another long drink of coffee before answering. “I’m kinky and domineering. I’m not as perverted as you.” A giant grin split Aindreas’ face. “I know, I know. People wish they were as creative as me. No one ever gets bored in my bed.”

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Except you. But Faolan didn’t put his thought into words. His friend didn’t need to be told what he already knew. It would only wipe the smile from his face and Faolan didn’t want to hurt him that way. “You just need to find someone else as creative as you. We’ll have to work on that.” “After you work on your Alpha sub, right?” Aindreas had to prod a little. He was really enjoying playing the matchmaker, even if he wasn’t the one who actually picked out Garrick for him. But Faolan could let his friend have his moment of romantic victory. “Of course, after that.”

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Chapter Twelve As soon as the sun sank on the horizon Garrick found himself standing in front of Faolan’s house, shirtless this time with fingers fidgeting against the leather collar he already wore around his neck. Here he was, just like he said he’d be. So what if he’d waited impatiently all day for this moment. So what if he’d been early and waited down the road in his car until the sun finally called it a day. He’d never been so excited to see a man before. He hoped tonight his new master would go further. He wanted to feel more than Faolan’s hands and mouth on him. All he could think about throughout the week was the feel of the man’s body and the sound of his voice. Lucky it wasn’t a full moon. He didn’t know how he could have faced his pack at a lunar run feeling as he did. He’d give new meaning to the term “horndog”. Faolan answered at the rap of his knuckles on the door. Garrick’s eyes nearly fell out of his head at his first sight of his master. Sex on a stick. Faolan was the definition of hot. In his thigh-high boots, Faolan stood level with Garrick’s eyes instead of his chin. A black satin poet shirt hung loose and unbuttoned, perfectly framing his smooth, tight chest. His nipple rings sported a thin gold chain joining them. His black leather pants hung tight, making a lack of underwear blatantly apparent. The sparkle of platinum from the bar in his brow and the matching rings marching up the side of each ear added just a hint of danger to his erotic picture. Pirate or punk rocker—take your pick. Faolan smiled at Garrick’s stunned expression. His eyes flicked over Garrick’s bare chest. “Nice. I don’t think I’ll ever let you wear a shirt in my home again. I’d be depriving myself of too fine a view.” Garrick’s back straightened. “If it pleases you, Master.” “Oh, it does. And that’s what tonight is about. Pleasing me.” Faolan turned and ushered him through the door. Two steps in he stopped Garrick short with a hand against his chest. Faolan pointed toward an antique wooden cabinet. “From now on, if I ask you to come over with your collar already on, you’ll strip here and place your clothing in this cupboard. Anything on this shelf is yours. If you want to leave something here, extra clothes or whatever, feel free. If things work out and you decide to continue with our relationship, I’ll give you more space.” Garrick nodded and obeyed. He folded his pants and laid them on top of his shoes on his shelf. “Good boy. Tonight I’ll be testing your reaction to different sensations as well as your obedience.” Faolan put his finger in the D-ring on Garrick’s collar and clipped on a short leash. “I don’t want to punish a bad puppy tonight. I want to see just how good a boy you can be for me. Can you be a very good boy?” 73

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“If that is your desire, Master.” Faolan smiled and tilted his head to look up at him. “You do know what to say, I’ll grant you that. But let’s see if your actions match your words. And to make sure you’re properly motivated, I’ll give you some incentive. You regretted receiving pleasure last time but not giving it.” He tugged at Garrick’s leash then stepped back to let him look his fill. “Do you want me?” “God and Goddess yes—Master.” Faolan tucked a loose bit of hair behind his ear, setting a few of the rings climbing the ridge clicking. Garrick wanted nothing more than to run his tongue over those rings and send them dancing. “I almost forgot. You’d better be on your toes tonight. I believe as much in reward as I do in punishment. If you’re a very good puppy I’ll let you choose how we end the evening. Anything you wish, any position you desire, any whatsoever. Does that sound like a proper reward?” Garrick fought to keep his tongue in his mouth as lewd and lascivious images danced in his mind. Maybe he’d suck his master while on his knees. Maybe Faolan would fuck him while he was tied down. Or maybe he’d be allowed inside his master, Faolan’s tight ass squeezing him so good. “Yes, Master.” Faolan nodded and turned. Holding Garrick’s leash over one shoulder, Faolan guided him to the same bedroom as before. Garrick expected him to lead toward the wall again or maybe the bed. Instead Faolan stopped in the dead center of the room. “On your knees, heels to ass.” Garrick dropped to the floor, careful to avoid the ring sticking out of the floor between his knees. Faolan looped the end of his leash through the ring, tugging it tight and nodding to himself. “Perfect length. Stay here. Face forward.” His master stood and moved behind him. The heels of Faolan’s boots clicked against the hardwood, each strike serving to tighten Garrick’s muscles with anticipation. The sound stopped. Then a drawer opened and some rustling. Then clicking again as he came back. Garrick braced himself for the feeling of a flogger on his back or maybe a cane. Garrick had read about caning but couldn’t see how that type of extreme pain could be erotic. But he’d be willing to try if his master wanted to and thought he’d enjoy it. He could control his wolf. But his stomach twisted at the thought. Trust. He had to trust that Faolan wouldn’t do anything to harm him. Instead Faolan reached around his head and slipped on the blindfold again. “Hands behind your back.” He stiffened as something latched around his wrists. His wolf whined but didn’t resist. Faolan’s hands petted his tight shoulders, thumbs digging into hardened muscles. “Hush now, good pup. It’s just Velcro, not silver. The same type of cuffs that I used last

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time,” he crooned, his voice like a snuggly blanket against jittery nerves. “Nothing you couldn’t get out of in two seconds flat if you wanted or needed to. I want you to have something to remind you to restrict your movement during our playtime. Now stay right where you are. No moving. Stay, good boy.” A rumble built in his chest but Garrick stayed still as he listened to Faolan walk to the other side of the room and open the door. He didn’t hear him step outside but he couldn’t be certain where Faolan was exactly. His fresh scent permeated the air, filling his lungs. Garrick could almost taste him. If he strained his ears he could hear Faolan breathing. Time lost all meaning. After a while he no longer tried to hear Faolan or predict what was going to happen. Garrick became one with the moment, the feel of wood beneath his knees. The way his leash skimmed across his cock when he shivered. How his shoulders ached under the pressure of his bound hands. He jerked when something cool trickled down his arm. “Good pup. Good pet. Now let’s play a question game. What is this?” He took a deep breath, opening his hyperalert senses and letting the scent play against his tongue. “I smell leather, Master.” “Yes, but what is it?” Faolan flicked it across his arm. He trembled as each strand bit into his arm, hard enough to sting a bit but not really hurt. “Flogger, Master?” “Very good.” Faolan pushed the tip under Garrick’s chin to force his head up as far as possible. “Since you guessed right, you decide if I use it on you and for how many strokes. Do you want to try this, see if you can take it? I give the decision to you.” A part of him wanted to whimper but he resisted. His master wanted to test him, see what he could take and enjoy. Faolan wouldn’t push him beyond his limits. “Yes, Master.” “How many do you want?” His biceps tingled from the one flick Faolan had given him. It didn’t feel that bad. Then again, it was just the one. How would several strokes against his skin feel? Only one way to find out. “Five, Master. But ease me in.” “Oh, I will.” Faolan placed a soft kiss on his shoulder. “Don’t worry. You’re in good hands. You’ll feel it but I won’t leave more than a temporary mark for me to enjoy. Unless you ask for a more permanent one, that is.” Garrick held very still, anticipating the whooshing sound before the strike of leather. True to his word, the first three were light. Almost teasing. Number four had a sting to it that left a comforting glow behind while the last had him twisting. He panted through the pain, surprised to find himself still aroused. Hell, more aroused. “You look so sweet, kneeling at attention with my stripes across your back.” Faolan’s fingers soothed the marks. “Now let’s see what’s next.”

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Again Faolan left him for a moment. Garrick took the opportunity to roll his shoulders and test his back. He could feel the stretch of skin where the flogger marked him but the pain had faded to a slight sting. More of a warm reminder than anything else. It left him strangely relaxed, more peaceful than he’d been when he first came here. Suddenly something touched his chest, hard and cold. He sucked in his breath at the shock of the sensation. Slowly the object warmed from the heat of his skin. “Any ideas, pet? What is this?” Garrick couldn’t get any discernable scent from it. It was too warm for metal and too solid for leather. “Plastic?” “Yes.” Faolan rolled it back and forth across Garrick’s chest. “But what is it?” He didn’t answer, concentrating on the smooth feel of it gliding against his skin. It could be anything. “How about I give you a clue?” Faolan moved back and he heard a distinctive buzzing sound. His eyes widened behind the mask, ass clenching with each pulsing buzz. “Shit.” He thought he heard Faolan snicker. “Wrong again. One last chance then it’s my choice.” “Vibrator, Master,” he squeaked, flinching at the sign of weakness. But damn. He wasn’t sure what he thought about what his master might do to him with mechanical help. “Correct again. Should I use it on you?” “How?” he whimpered, ass clenching tighter. How would that feel rubbing against his prostate? Would he be able to hold back? And how big was it exactly? Faolan laughed, his nails digging into his ass briefly. “Obviously not that way. I don’t think you’re nearly ready enough for that. Wouldn’t want to strain your control. I don’t want you to come too quickly. And I get the impression that you don’t bottom often. While I like it both ways, we’ll have to work on your comfort level as a bottom. But tonight we don’t have the time I’d dedicate to preparation. I have many other things to introduce you to tonight. And quite frankly, you need to give me credit for a little more imagination.” But he did run the shaking thing down Garrick’s crack, causing him to jerk against the leash. “No thank you, Master. Not tonight. Not if it’s my choice.” He grimaced. Way to sound like a babbling idiot. But if he chose to bottom, it wouldn’t be for a glorified plastic tube. His master didn’t take offense. “But I’ll use it some other way, perhaps? Give me five minutes and you’ll love it. I promise.” Garrick gritted his teeth and clenched his hands into fists as the buzzing sound increased. But he wanted to do as Faolan asked. He wanted to fulfill every desire the man had. His master would take care of him. Faolan hadn’t done anything to make him

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doubt that single fact. It all came down to faith in him as a person, as a dom. “I trust you to take care of me, Master.” “Is that a yes to five minutes?” Faolan let the vibrator buzz in his ear. As if Garrick could forget it was there. “I want to be absolutely clear. No saying I cheated in my game.” “Yes. Five minutes, Master.” I am Alpha of my pack. I can take anything for five minutes. “Don’t sound so worried. Remember, if it goes too far you can always crawl back in your nice, safe den.” Like I would use my safe word this quickly, Garrick braced himself for the assault, chin rising. He was made of sterner stuff than that. Faolan would take care of him and he would enjoy every damn minute of it. His master chuckled behind him, raising his hackles. He jerked as the buzzing sound increased again, his wolf wanting to growl. Not this time. I’ll last longer this time. Won’t let him out so soon. He gasped and strained forward as Faolan ran the vibrator down his chest and over his nipples. “Shh, sweet puppy. It’ll be all right. Be a good pet and trust your master to know what’s best for you. I only want to give pleasure.” A fine shiver broke out across Garrick’s body, only to leave as Faolan slid the cold plastic across his cock. “God, Master,” he cried, the sensation so intense he almost broke the cuffs holding his hands in place. Faolan’s dark chuckle broke into a loud, pleased laugh. “I told you that you’d like it. Feels so good rubbing against your poor, aching cock. Makes you wanna come so hard. You need to trust your master, right?” “Always, always, Master.” Garrick pulled the leash tight as his back arched. “Good answer.” The vibrations went straight down Garrick’s cock, drawing his balls up tight. God and Goddess, he needed to come. He needed it so bad. Shit. Shit. Shit. Have to hold on. Can’t come. Not yet. But the wonderful, awful sensation of vibrations shooting straight up his cock and down practically into his ass. Never felt anything like it. Never felt the urge to howl. It slid down and pushed against that little area right between his balls and anus. Garrick needed so much. But he couldn’t have it. Master didn’t want him to have it yet. And he’d make it worth his while. Not that he wasn’t doing that now. Fuck, Garrick wanted, needed. After an eternity, the buzzing stopped. Faolan said nothing. Garrick could hear him walking away and wondered what would be next. What could possibly compare to the massage of that plastic monster? He could appreciate it but that wasn’t enough. He was hard enough to drive nails. Even his 77

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wolf wanted to show his belly in hopes of being granted satisfaction. He had to keep thinking about what he’d do when his master let him have him. The feel of Faolan’s ass wrapped around his cock, screaming his name as he pleased him. He had to hold on. So he shoved his impatient wolf down with a human snarl. Surely he couldn’t have too much more planned. How much could Faolan expect him to take before he broke? How hard would Faolan test him? That was the million-dollar question. Garrick hissed as something cold pressed against his nipple only to leave a cool, wet trail dripping down his chest. “Ice, Master,” he said before Faolan even had a chance to ask. “Yes, but what else?” His brow wrinkled. He didn’t feel anything else. The ice melted a bit and water dripped further down his skin. Then he noticed something hardening around his nipple, pulling it tight. What the hell? Another flash of cold followed by the tightening sensation. Then the next drip to hit wasn’t cold. It was hot. Not hot enough to burn but hot enough to tell the dripping wasn’t completely ice. Hot oil maybe? But what was pulling his skin tight? “You’re very quiet. What’s your guess?” “I don’t know.” He tugged a bit at his cuffs and growled. “I don’t know.” His master sighed—sad, disappointed? “I’ll give you one clue. If you get this correct, I’ll say you win. I’ll let you have me. How does that sound?” Riddles? Garrick craved fucking and Faolan gave him riddles? Hot…hot but hardens as it cools—what the hell was it? “Please, Master,” he hissed, tossing his head in frustration. “Three words. Fire and ice. You guessed the ice. What is the fire?” Another drop plopped on Garrick’s pelvis, drawing a hiss from him. But this time he smelled the faintest hint of smoke. “Wax.” “Good boy. You win. You can collect your reward.” Garrick barely remembered the cuffs coming off. Suddenly he could move. With a growl he leapt to his feet and ripped off the blindfold. Faolan stood there, staring at him with that single brow raised, all perfect and unperturbed. The bastard looked so calm and collected—not a hair out of place. Damn if Faolan would stay that way this time. Not when he had control. Desperation eating at Garrick, his mouth slammed across Faolan’s, tongue prying his master’s lips apart and thrusting inside. He needed him. Needed to taste him—out of control. Garrick felt out of control. He liked it, freaking sweet and addictive.

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Faolan whimpered against his lips and wrapped his legs around Garrick’s waist. Garrick’s wolf howled within as he ate at Faolan’s mouth, his taste buds tingling with the flavors of rich honey and fragrant nectar. Garrick shivered as the cool metal of his tongue stud lapped against the roof of his mouth. He never thought he’d be so turnedon by piercings and the taste of metal. He carried his master to the bed, dropping him in his haste. His collapse against Faolan alone kept the man from bouncing off. Faolan laced his fingers in Garrick’s hair and gave a sharp tug. Garrick snarled down but the look on his master’s face stopped any words. Faolan’s eyes glowed with a trust that Garrick didn’t know if he deserved, a look that both pulled him back from the brink and melted his heart at the same time. “I gave you control to choose tonight’s ending, pup. Don’t abuse it.” Garrick closed his eyes, took a deep calming breath and nodded. The wolf was so close, closer than he’d ever felt before during sex. If Garrick didn’t rein him in, he could lose his hold over him. He could hurt Faolan or cause him to hurt him in self-defense. Not what Garrick wanted, not at all. He wanted to sink into Faolan’s ass balls-deep, not fang-deep. He ran his palms down Faolan’s leather-encased thighs. He’d dreamed about having Faolan under him like this since his first night with the faerie. His master was so beautiful, strong, dominant. Faolan was everything Garrick ever hoped of having and feared never finding. Faolan grinned under Garrick’s tongue as Garrick licked his cheek. Tasty. Garrick buried his nose in Faolan’s long blond hair, breathing in that summer scent that was so uniquely his. God and Goddess, Garrick wished he had more patience, that he could make this first time slower and savor every second. But Faolan made him desperate. Hungry. He nuzzled his way down Faolan’s body. Garrick nibbled on Faolan’s nipples, playing with his rings and tugging at the chain connecting them. Faolan liked the harsh handling, arching and gasping under his teeth. Suddenly Faolan pushed him away. Garrick growled again. His vision blurred as it switched back and forth from canine to human. His master grinned. He reached to the side for a small bottle of lube before quickly shedding his leather pants. Garrick took the bottle in a shaky hand, fumbling with the lid. He warmed some of the slick in his palm before coating his fingers. He circled Faolan’s opening, fingertip teasing. He slid a single digit knuckle-deep, enjoying the grip as Faolan’s ass dragged him in. Faolan’s body wanted to have him as much as Garrick needed to plunge into him. “What are you waiting for?” Faolan arched up, rubbing his cock against Garrick’s stomach and leaving a slick trail of precum. “Is that an order, Master?”

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Faolan glared. “Are you really wanting me to take control?” “Not this time, Master.” Garrick hoisted Faolan’s ankles over his shoulder, opening him wide. He cupped Faolan’s heavy balls, rolling them slowly in his palm. He grinned as they drew up close to Faolan’s body. The faerie arched his back and gasped. Licking a path up his neck, Garrick fingered Faolan’s hole again. “Are you certain you’re ready for me?” “What do I have to do, make it an order? I’m ready. Fuck me already.” Faolan gripped Garrick’s shoulders, using them to pull himself up and kiss him hard. His tongue dueled with Garrick’s, filling Garrick’s mouth with the flavor of metal and honey. “Do it.” Garrick reached down once more to adjust the position of the shorter man, still seeing to his comfort. He wasn’t a small man and didn’t want to cause harm. His fingers dug into Faolan’s thighs, supporting him as Faolan bowed beneath him. Keeping Faolan’s pleasure foremost in his mind, Garrick slowly slid in. So tight. He stopped to let him adjust but Faolan was having none of that. He grabbed Garrick’s ass and pulled him forward. His cock fully seated inside his master, Garrick’s eyes rolled back and his wolf howled. Mine, finally he’s mine. Faolan whimpered and shook beneath him. His tight ass convulsed around Garrick’s cock. With each thrust Garrick felt another pulse of energy building within him. Home. He was home. Safe and secure with his mate.

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Chapter Thirteen Two nights later, still trying to recover, the darkened, hole-in-wall, locals’ bar fit Garrick’s mood impeccably. Unpretentious, it provided cheap drinks, pool tables and a series of video poker machines built into the bar. Cigarette smoke deadened his sense of smell. Blaring heavy metal suppressed his acute hearing. He could almost relax surrounded by the stark, blue-collar humanity. Garrick’s hand trembled as he took a quick shot from a small, possibly clean glass. His head was too full, even the noise of the masses couldn’t entirely block out his thoughts. He still had it in him to laugh at himself and the situation he found himself in. What the hell had he expected? He’d gone to a dating service run by a witch and a satyr. Garrick told them he was looking for someone to match him, someone he could trust to help him work through his sexually submissive tendencies and have an honest relationship with. He should’ve known they would take him literally. He should’ve expected that they’d give him more than a damn good screw. Garrick may not have said it outright but his description could only lead to one thing. And wasn’t that the one thing he’d been searching for, hoping for? A mate. My one true mate. Faolan, a faerie, is my mate. The God and Goddess had a hell of a sense of humor. It was bad enough that they’d chosen to make him a gay, sexually submissive Alpha who led the strongest pack to survive the Para Wars. They had to give him one of the most unacceptable mates possible. His packmates would have to look the other way if he took a non-human para as a lover since he’d won his last challenge—but not as a mate. No damn way. It didn’t matter how much he tried not to think about it, how afraid he’d been to even consider the possibility. They would never accept Faolan in a position of power within the pack hierarchy. His pack would freak when they found out. They’d hunt the two of them down and gut them unless he could figure out a way to get them to see reason. Because if Garrick wanted any peace and contentment in his life, he had to stay with his mate. No one else would do for him. Not now. Not ever. But things could be worse. He had to admit that he truly cared for Faolan. He just had to hope Faolan felt the same way. He thought Faolan did but the faerie had never actually said as much. Of course, neither had he, being so focused on the sex as opposed to their growing emotional connection. Life couldn’t be uncomplicated.

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Garrick poured another shot from the bottle the bartender left for him. The amber liquid slid down his throat with a slow heat, easing his tense muscles. With his metabolism there was no way he could drink enough to forget his troubles. But that didn’t stop him from trying and enjoying the process. He needed to work things out but he didn’t want to think about anything yet. There’d be time enough to worry later. He just needed one evening of peace before he started crossing and burning bridges. His nose twitched as the scents of blooming flowers and fresh-cut grass overpowered the scents of old tobacco and unwashed bodies. A delicate man perched on the stool next to him and ordered a glass of wine before turning to face him. Garrick wasn’t in the mood to play games with another non-human para. He had his hands full with Faolan. “What?” he growled. The stranger’s lips quirked. Eyes the same bright green as his mate’s sparkled. The blond cupped his wineglass in a single palm and swirled it beneath his nose. “Not too friendly, are you?” “I am if I have a reason to be.” Garrick turned his back on the man. The blond clicked his tongue and sighed. “And here I had more respect for Faolan’s judgment. Maybe I gave him too much credit.” I hate it when I’m right. The God and Goddess aren’t done with me yet. It’s time for the other shoe to drop. “Friend of Faolan’s, huh?” Garrick picked up his bottle and poured another shot. “Brother, actually.” The other man put his own glass down and held out a hand. “Teague.” Garrick glanced at the hand but didn’t take it. Something about the guy sent his wolf’s hackles up. Best to rely on his instincts until he knew what was really going on. He picked up his shot and tossed his head back as he gulped it down. He slammed the glass back down on the bar harder than necessary before turning back to the faerie. “He knows you’re here?” The man lowered his hand slowly but kept his friendly smile in place. He gave a quick shrug. “No.” “Wouldn’t like it, would he?” Garrick asked, watching the man’s reaction. If he hadn’t kept such close watch he would’ve missed the slight tightening around Teague’s eyes before he answered. “You know him well.” Garrick couldn’t keep the self-satisfied smirk from curving his lips. “You could say that.” The man nodded, not a bit surprised but none too happy either. “You realize his family won’t approve of his relationship with you?” “I didn’t know for sure but I could’ve guessed.” Garrick snorted and poured yet another shot of tequila. “Your people aren’t exactly known for your tolerance of

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diversity. I seem to remember the desire to wipe my kind off the face of the earth coming up once or twice over the years.” “And your people were the model of ethnic tolerance?” Teague asked with a cold glare and an equally frigid sneer. “I remember losing quite a few friends to the teeth and claws of shifters, frontline cannon fodder during the wars. What would they say if they knew about your relationship with one of my race?” Garrick growled. He slung back his drink and slammed the glass back down on the bar again, ignoring the growing look of concern the bartender kept shooting him. As if he was going to pick a fight with the poor, weak girly man sitting beside him. Damn faerie could hold his own in a brawl. And no way was Garrick letting this arrogant prick see his own doubts about his pack’s reactions. He knew blood would flow. He just hoped to keep the bloodshed to a minimum. Faolan’s brother wasn’t exactly dropping any stellar newsflashes. Faolan’s brother…does that make him my brother too? Garrick shuddered at the thought and reached for the tequila bottle again. “The pack won’t like it much. But they won’t have a choice either.” “The big bad Alpha will shove his lover down their throats.” Teague gave a dark laugh, drawing more curious attention to the two of them. Garrick glared down at the amber-colored liquid in his glass and frowned. He didn’t need some stranger pointing out all the problems he’d come here to settle in his mind or forget for a while. Teague gave a sly grin, much like a cat with the mouse wiggling between his paws. “No, you don’t have a choice.” Garrick mulled over the man’s words, trying to find the trap. Fae always told the truth but always meant more than they said. His old Alpha had pounded that lesson in him at an early age. So what wasn’t this man really saying? No way could the guy know about the mating. He hadn’t told Faolan yet. Garrick didn’t know how to explain it to him. His brother shouldn’t even suspect the possibility. So what did this guy mean? “The queen wants Prince Faolan to come back and take his rightful place. I suggest you encourage him.” Garrick blinked at the title. He’d thought Faolan had been joking about the whole faerie prince thing but shelved that issue for later consideration. This didn’t sound good. His wolf pricked up his ears. Teague’s words had the sharp edges of a threat. No one threatened his mate. Swallowing back a growl, Garrick asked, “And if I don’t?” Teague flicked at a piece of fuzz marring the edge of his stark white cuff. “I tell your pack about your extracurricular activities.”

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Okay, that doesn’t sound good. I’d like more time for just Faolan and me before I break the news of my mating to the pack. Still, it’s not the end of the world, just not the way I want my pack to meet my mate. What else does he have up that sleeve he seems so proud of? “How do you know my pack won’t surprise you and welcome him with open arms? The Fae are some of the strongest of the non-human paras. He’d make a powerful ally for us.” Not that I haven’t already been thinking of using that angle to pave the way. “But will they be so accepting of you?” Teague’s upper lip curled in distaste as he stripped Garrick with his eyes. “Faolan’s—sexual preferences—are quite well-known in his home. I’m certain yours are not.” Garrick blinked. He should’ve seen that coming. Good guess on the faerie’s part, going right for the jugular—a well-planned attack. But both Garrick and his wolf refused to back down. This was his mate being threatened, even if Teague was part of his family. No one threatened him or his mate. “Nice try but it’s not going to work. I’m sitting here drinking myself under the table because I’ve decided to come clean with my pack. So your threat’s got no real teeth. They already know about him being Fae. They’ll deal with the rest. If Faolan doesn’t want to go home, for whatever reason, I’m sure as hell not going to push him to it. To be honest, I don’t think anyone could push that man into doing something he didn’t want to.” For a moment Garrick thought he saw panic in Teague’s eyes but it was quickly covered with a thick layer of disdain. “The queen wants him back.” “Why?” Garrick asked while watching the other man closely. There’s something more at work here than Teague is letting on. It might be something that might come back to bite me in the ass later. “I got the impression he’d been kicked out. Why the sudden need for him back?” “He was temporarily exiled.” Teague sipped his wine. He grimaced, staring down at the deep red liquid before putting it down with a sigh of disgust. “The queen assumed being forced into the mortal world would knock some sense into him. Faolan refused to obey direct orders. He was overly vocal in his opposition to the war. The queen had to make an example of him. She never expected Faolan to take things this far. After so many years, even the queen must acknowledge her mistake.” Garrick grinned. Their queen didn’t know his mate very well if she thought Faolan would come running back with the first beckoning of her finger. Hell, he wouldn’t put it past Faolan to have protested the war just so he’d be kicked out of Otherworld in the first place. That independent streak of his ran a mile wide. Garrick respected it. “What’ll you do when Faolan refuses to return? Because I’ve got to tell you, I don’t see him going back any time soon. He seems pretty settled here in the human world if you ask me.” Teague gritted his teeth and drummed his fingers against the edge of the bar. “That’s why I wanted to speak with you, have you convince him. I don’t want it to come to that. Faolan is my brother and I care for him. But I’ve been told if he doesn’t return on his own in one week he’ll be taken back by force. At best that could mean me

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escorting him home for a triumphant return. At worst the queen might send out the Wild Hunt after him. Knowing the queen’s particular taste in entertainment, I fear the worst.” Garrick growled as his wolf came to full attention. His canines pierced his gums and his vision started fading to black and white. “Faolan won’t be taken,” he hissed around a mouth full of sharp teeth, tilting his head so the humans in the bar wouldn’t notice. “You hunt my mate, threaten him in any way, and you violate the Cross Para Peace Accord. My pack will have every right to declare war on the Fae alone, with all the human para races at our back along with many of the non-human para. It would mean genocide for your people. Would your queen truly wish to risk that?” All hint of emotion faded from his face as Teague faced him fully. “Mate? Faolan is your mate? That can’t be right. Does he believe this?” Garrick let his teeth flash in the dim bar light. “I haven’t told him yet but there’s no disbelieving it. Shifter mates are picked by the God and Goddess. They are destined for us, not chosen by us. And we do mate for life.” Teague leapt to his feet. The smell of flowers and grass he gave off took on a distinctive scent of ozone. “This cannot be true. The queen will never accept a mating of one of her princes to a member of an inferior species.” Prince again? What the hell was with all this “her princes” crap? “Well, you’ll have to excuse me if I care more about Faolan’s reaction than your queen’s.” For a second Garrick thought the man would launch himself at him. Instead he seemed to regroup, muscles relaxing one at a time before he spoke again. “You will release your claim on Faolan or I will let your pack know about your sexual habits.” Knew it would come to this. “I already told you once and I hate repeating myself. So listen carefully. I—don’t—care. Faolan is my mate, not some meaningless fling or onenight stand. I don’t have a choice but to tell my pack, whether you break the news to them or me. One way or another I will stay with Faolan. He is my mate, mine.” Teague pursed his lips and narrowed his eyes. But he didn’t say another word, just stood and stalked out of the room. Garrick flagged down the bartender for another bottle and thought about how he’d tell his beta about everything. He was going to need Bryce’s promise of support. He only hoped his old friend didn’t regret it.

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Chapter Fourteen The next afternoon found Garrick standing outside Faolan’s door, shivering in 100degree weather. He shuffled his feet and eyed the door. He worked up his courage as he ran through what he’d say when he saw Faolan. His head throbbed and he wondered if the nausea came from the drinks last night or what he was about to do. Hung over and standing uninvited on my master’s doorstep to tell him that he’s my mate. Brilliant. Just freaking brilliant. Not that he could think of anything else to do. He’d already called to set up a pack meeting for the next night, explaining everything to Bryce. His beta had taken the news well. He laughed his ass off when he heard about Garrick’s submissive sexual lifestyle. But Bryce had also been quick to throw his support behind Garrick as Alpha. Hopefully his pack would be half as accepting. Garrick had to tell them. He couldn’t let the jerk from the bar spill it before Garrick had a chance. But there was no way Garrick would tell his entire pack about finding his mate before letting the mate in question in on that little secret. But how would Faolan take it? Would he even understand what it meant to him? I’ve just got to get this over with and handle whatever happens. Waiting out here isn’t going to help anything. Garrick knocked before he could change his mind and hide back in his truck. The door flew open but not to Garrick’s mate. Faolan’s elf friend Aindreas stood there looking almost as surprised as he felt. A grin split the other man’s face as he leaned against the doorjamb, arms and ankles crossed. “Well, this is a pleasant surprise. Faolan didn’t tell me he was expecting such exotic company this afternoon. Rather remiss of him if you ask me. If I’d known I would’ve prepared for the occasion.” No turning back now. Garrick straightened to stare down at the smaller man with every ounce of Alpha wolf in his gaze. Aindreas was his master’s friend but he wasn’t his master. “Faolan didn’t know I was coming over. I need to talk to him.” “I hope it isn’t something too terrible?” The elf looked Garrick over as he stepped to the side. Garrick didn’t know how to answer. He hoped his visit was a good thing. He liked Faolan and what he could do to Garrick’s body should be illegal. Hell, it might be illegal in some of the Southern states. But he didn’t really know how Faolan felt about him or how the faerie would react to having a lupin for a mate. “Terrible would depend on the point of view.” The elf tilted his head, eyes boring into Garrick. “Need some privacy?” Garrick met Aindreas’ gaze without blinking and nodded.

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“I’ll get him then.” Aindreas started to leave the room only to look back over his shoulder. “Just know that you better not be about to break Faolan’s heart. We elves can be very good friends but we make excellent enemies.” “More like break my heart,” Garrick whispered as the other man left him alone in the room. Garrick took his place beside his cabinet and waited. His whole future hinged on the next few minutes. In his life he’d faced down countless pack challenges. He’d had other wolves try to gut him for little reason. He’d even fought in one of the last minor skirmishes in the wars. He’d seen people die, many who shouldn’t have. He’d been mortally wounded only to have his shifter powers save him. But he’d never felt so scared that he could tasted the tangy metallic favor of panic on his tongue. Until now. Garrick’s breath rushed from his lungs as Faolan swept in. His long blond hair fell loose around his shoulders and down his back like a silken cape. His satin pants hung loose and low while his clingy red top ended just above his stomach. His wings fluttered free around him, setting the rings along their edges jingling a merry tune. Even the streaks of blue and red paint dotting his shirt and sliding across his cheek made Faolan all the more striking and endearing. “Aindreas said you needed to speak with me?” Only after he asked the question did Garrick notice the fine line of tension carving wrinkles into Faolan’s brow. Goddess, Garrick didn’t want to be the cause of Faolan’s worry. Faolan had to want to see him. Didn’t he? Faolan didn’t see Garrick as a disturbance, or worse, an annoyance. “I hope you don’t mind me just showing up. I couldn’t wait until tonight.” Faolan smiled and ushered Garrick in, the expression lighting his face and erasing some of Garrick’s concern. “Of course I don’t mind. You can come over to talk or whatever any time you want. That is part of having a relationship, even one as unconventional as our own. I only reserve the right to kick you out if I’m too deep in the artistic process. I can get a bit temperamental then, not fit for man nor beast.” “Fair enough.” Silence filled the room, a heavy weight pushing down the air around them. Faolan stared at him as Garrick tried to think of how to broach the subject. How do you tell a man who you think just wants you around for a sexual relationship, no matter how permanent, that you think he’s your soul mate? “You’re starting to make me nervous.” Faolan stepped closer, one hand coming up to cup Garrick’s cheek. Then Faolan’s eyes narrowed as his nose twitched. “That bastard! He got to you.” Leaning into the hand, Garrick resisted the urge to close his eyes and pretend he didn’t have anything important to say. “Who got to me?” “My damned brother Teague, that’s who.” Faolan sighed and shook himself, his wings trembling with ire. He slid his fingers around and over Garrick’s lips before stepping back. “A little bit of him lingers if he’s pissed off. You pissed him off.” 87

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He peered at Garrick, looking him over from head to foot. “Did he hurt you? I should call Aindreas back in here. He’s better at counter magicks and healings than I am.” His mate, his master, wanted to protect him. That’s a good sign, right? As an Alpha, Garrick understood the urge to protect what he considered his. “No. It’s nothing like that.” Garrick leaned against the wall, letting Faolan look his fill. “I ran into the man at a bar. And I might agree with you. I could see calling him a jerk, maybe a bastard. Didn’t talk to him long enough to make a clear decision on it. He did threaten me but not with anything that matters. He’s not the reason I’m here.” Faolan’s eyes snapped with green fire and his fists clenched. “He threatened you. I will have to kill him. He knows better than to threaten anyone who I consider mine.” Garrick felt a warm glow build in his stomach. He stood very still as he let the possibilities flow over him. “Am I?” Faolan gave him a blank stare. “Are you what?” “Am I yours? Really yours?” Garrick stepped closer but resisted the temptation to reach for Faolan. Confusion filled Faolan’s face but he didn’t step back. “Of course you are. I thought I’d made that pretty well clear these last few nights.” Garrick shrugged and crossed his arms, trying to not look damn needy. “We fit well together. You like dominating me. I like being dominated. But you haven’t said anything yet about keeping me around for anything more permanent than the occasional scene. You can’t blame me for wondering if you see me as just a fuckbuddy.” His master reached out and cupped Garrick’s chin, rubbing his lower lip with his thumb. “That’s not my decision to make.” The wistful tone of Faolan’s voice twisted something near Garrick’s heart. “That’s yours. You give yourself into my care. The decision to stay with me for whatever length of time is entirely yours.” “Bullshit,” Garrick whispered against Faolan’s thumb, his happy warm glow fading. Faolan blinked. “Excuse me.” “You didn’t hear me the first time. I said bullshit.” Garrick jerked his face away, surprised at the heat of his own anger. “This is not my decision to make.” Faolan clenched his jaw, eyes narrowing as he stepped back. But his voice remained even as he answered, “The exchange of power is the basis of every D/s relationship. At the core, your submission is your choice.” “My submission to you is my choice. I made that choice already. I made it before I even walked into the interview with Divine Intervention.” Garrick glared down at him, refusing to break eye contact even if Faolan was his master. “Whether or not you want to keep me, to accept my submission, is your decision too. Because I was hoping that beneath the scenes we play together we were developing a relationship as well.

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Relationships outside the bedroom take two people, two equal and consenting adults. That means you have as much say as I do.” “I was hoping for that too,” Faolan whispered, staring at Garrick’s chest. Garrick’s hand trembled as he reached out to stroke a single lock escaping Faolan’s ponytail. “Then do I belong to you or not?” His master looked up at him, his emerald eyes glowing with emotion. “You do.” Finally Garrick felt the stress lift from his body. He gave Faolan a quirky half-grin, rubbing his hand over the back of his neck. “So if I wanted to go pick out a collar for myself, a personal one, we’d do it?” Faolan pursed his lips and tilted his head as he considered Garrick’s request. “I’d still consider it your training collar because you’re not even close to being finished with your training. But if you want physical proof of my intentions toward you, yes. We could go out right now to a craftsman I know who works wonders with leather and pick one out together.” Garrick’s grin widened. “Good.” “Good.” Faolan looked him over again expectantly. “Now if that was all, I’d either like to change so we can shop or get back to my work. Unless there was something else you’d like to say?” Shit. I still haven’t told him everything. Garrick opened his mouth but no words came out. A bright smile flashed across Faolan’s face. “For a sub who just spent the last few minutes making demands of your master, you’re being strangely silent now.” “I’m not wearing a collar right now.” By defending his position, Garrick could put off his confession for a few more minutes. “By your own rules I’m not your sub at the moment. I’m the man who has a life he has to live outside the bedroom.” “True. So you do remember the rules I set for you.” Faolan gave him a look of approval that sent his heart racing. “My bad puppy can be taught. But what’s really bothering you? The Fae aren’t the most perceptive beings when it comes to feelings but your angst is practically shimmering around you. Are you sure my brother didn’t get to you?” “I’m sure.” Garrick shifted his weight from toe to heel. “Look, can we sit down and talk? This conversation could use the sitting-down approach.” Faolan raised one eyebrow but led him to a small sitting room just off the main living area. A small room, the dark colors and cheerful lighting lent a sense of comfort and warmth to the area. Bookshelves lined two of the walls and an overstuffed chair and loveseat gathered around an oak coffee table. Faolan perched on the loveseat, tucking his legs under him. Garrick sat in the chair across from him. He stared at the barren fireplace, wishing it was lit. That would give him something to distract himself with as he gathered his thoughts.

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“This must be serious if you don’t trust yourself to sit near me,” Faolan commented as he watched Garrick settle in. “How much do you know about lupin shifters?” Garrick blurted, feeling like an idiot but not knowing where to start. Faolan raised that single brow again, light shining off his piercing. “Not a huge amount. I fought some of your kind during the Para Wars, before I made my feelings known and was exiled. But I have to say, I’ve done more research on the subject since meeting you.” He couldn’t do it. Garrick couldn’t look him in the eye as he forced out the words. “Do you know anything about our mating customs?” “I know that you mate for life. And it’s said that you know your mate during sex though nothing I’ve found explains exactly how that works.” Faolan shrugged and grinned. “It’s why your people have such an open attitude toward same-sex partners. It’s not as though you have any choice in the matter.” Garrick didn’t say anything. Faolan was an intelligent man. Garrick let him ponder his questions and reason it out for himself. “We had sex for the first time a few nights ago,” Faolan finally said. Garrick watched his legs unfold and his feet hit the floor as Faolan leaned toward him. The rings in his wings began chiming again as they fluttered in agitation. But Garrick still couldn’t meet his eyes as his master put everything together. “I’m your mate. That’s what this is all about, all the concern. I’m your mate.” “Yes.” Garrick kept his eyes locked on his clenched hands, not willing to face Faolan’s reaction. “And what does that mean to you?” Faolan didn’t sound upset or even surprised, giving Garrick a hint of encouragement. Still, Garrick kept his gaze on his twisting fingers. “It changes everything and nothing.” Garrick drew on his last bit of nerve and looked up. Who knew that risking my heart and future would be more frightening than risking my life? “I still want you to be my master. For the first time I feel like I’ve found all of myself. Those missing pieces are starting to come into place. But there’s more to it now. You’re my mate too, the man who could become my family.” “Are you saying you love me, want to marry me and spend the rest of your life under my care? Which one of us gets to wear the pretty white dress?” Faolan joked without smiling. Garrick paused for a moment, really looking at the man in front of him and considering all he represented. “I’m saying I could love you and in the eyes of my people we’re already married.” “Now that’s really going to piss off Mother.”

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Flinching, Garrick saw something in Faolan’s eyes that gave him hope. Maybe Faolan really didn’t care what his family thought. “I got that feeling when I spoke to your brother.” A fleeting moment of panic swept Faolan’s face. “You didn’t tell Teague, did you? Oh God and Goddess, tell me you didn’t tell Teague.” “Unfortunately, my prince, in the course of our conversation, I slipped up and told him.” Faolan looked vaguely sick but determined at the same time. Then he paused, giving Garrick a puzzled look. “What did you call me?” “Prince. That’s the other little bombshell your brother Teague let drop. I thought you were joking when you called yourself a faerie prince. Guess not. The meeting tomorrow night’s going to be a real joy after I tell my pack everything.” Faolan snorted as he reached up to fiddle with the rings lining his ear. “I don’t go by what my people think, since I’m in exile. I can’t be heir to the throne and persona non grata at the same time. And what’s this about a pack meeting?” Irritation stiffened his spine. He hated that other people’s prejudices would have any impact on his mating. “They’ll have to be told. At least about the mating and who you are. I’ve told my beta about the other side to our relationship already, just in case.” A little half-smile played across Faolan’s lips. The muscles in his shoulders dropped and he wiggled back in his seat. “And what happened to wanting to keep it all a secret? I thought that’s why you had to go to an online service to find me in the first place?” Garrick closed his eyes again. Damn but he didn’t want to go there. Unfortunately, he no longer had a choice. He’d set everything in motion the day he contacted Divine Intervention and had to deal with the consequences. But if there was no risk, there could be no reward. After finding his mate, there would be no regrets. Hopefully it wouldn’t hurt his pack, not now that they’d finally recovered past the point of struggling for survival. “If your brother knows, the pack will have to know. I get the feeling he’ll be more than happy to drag my sexual kinks out, so it’s only a matter of time. But you told me in the beginning that the secret couldn’t last long. And to be honest, I’m sick and tired of hiding. No matter how I like my sex, I’m still Alpha enough to despise all this hiding. We meet our battles head-on.” “And there will be battles.” Faolan’s face hardened and for a moment Garrick could see a reflection of the fierce warrior he’d been for his race. “Mating a faerie prince is enough to cause a few fights. Hell, I’ve already had one just for daring to date you. When the D/s circumstances come out there will be challenges to my authority.” Garrick shrugged, forced to accept the inevitable. What’s done was done. “I’ll meet them and I’ll win. I can do nothing less to keep my pack safe.” “And what about your safety?” Faolan snapped, eyes sparkling with anger. “It’s my job as your master to keep you safe. I take my job just as seriously as you take yours. Any meeting you set up had better include me.” 91

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Garrick honestly hadn’t thought of that, hadn’t considered that Faolan would want to stand by him at a challenge. “If you come, you will be declaring your acceptance of our mating. Do you want that?” Faolan leaned back farther, crossing his legs and tapping on his knee. “As soon as I read about lupin mating customs, I knew it was a possibility for us. It was a slim one, granted, considering our differences in race. But it was possible. I accepted the risk then. Am I comfortable with the thought? No. Not entirely. I’ve been alone for centuries and a man gets used to the independence. But a man gets lonely too. You have the makings of a damn fine pet, the perfect sub for me. And I like you. I put my trust in the God and Goddess when I signed up with Divine Intervention. Far be it for me to second-guess them.” Garrick blinked. He didn’t know what he expected—screaming maybe, something being thrown at his head. He wouldn’t have been surprised with a few well-aimed punches. He figured he’d be doing lot of begging, certainly. Faolan’s calm acceptance was a surprise and a bit of a letdown. Hell, Garrick wasn’t expecting a profession of undying love. Garrick couldn’t give one to Faolan so he shouldn’t expect one from him. But Garrick still felt somewhat let down by Faolan’s unruffled demeanor. But he hadn’t been to a pack meeting yet. If Faolan didn’t turn tail after an evening with his family, maybe the God and Goddess had the right idea after all.

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Chapter Fifteen Another wonderful warm day held Otherworld in a pleasant embrace. Strange, multicolored little birds sang in the trees. Glittering metallic-hued butterflies and dragonflies darted through the sweetly perfumed air. And Queen Odelina scowled down at her worthless son, a sniveling, spineless weakling who couldn’t even accomplish a simple task like convincing an exile to come home. How could someone so miserable spring from her womb? Ever since that wife of his had died, all Teague cared about was his daughter. At least Odelina found that useful at the moment. “What do you mean Faolan refuses to even consider coming back?” She took momentary pleasure from the look of pure panic on Teague’s face. He was so easy to intimidate. “And what do you mean Faolan doesn’t care what I think about him?” “Just that, Your Majesty,” Teague murmured, still kneeling facedown in the dirt at her feet and refusing to meet her gaze. “He’s made a life for himself in the mortal realm that he’s quite comfortable with.” Impotent rage filled her. Rage, Odelina understood. Impotence, she refused to bear. The queen snapped her fingers and two tall elves stalked in from behind the tree line, dragging a delicate young faerie with fiery red hair hanging limp in her face. “Father!” The girl began struggling to pull away from her guards. Teague scrambled from his knees and reached out to her. “Nara!” Now just apply pressure and watch the weakling snap. Queen Odelina glared at him with narrowed eyes, pinning him in place with her gaze. “What aren’t you telling me?” Though he dropped back to his knees, Teague couldn’t take his eyes off his daughter. Odelina nodded at one of the elves, who twisted the young girl’s arm behind her back, eliciting a sharp gasp. Pain etched Teague’s pale face as he closed his eyes and said the words that would betray his favorite brother. “He’s found a mate there. He will not leave the man and the man refuses to leave Faolan.” Odelina wrinkled her nose. That made no sense. Any human male would relish coming here to take his place as a royal consort. The solution seemed too easy. Why would Faolan resist the idea? “So what is the problem? Tell Faolan I’ll grant whoever his lover is immunity as well. He can return to Otherworld with his new pet. Faolan won’t have to leave him behind.” “His lover is a shifter.” The queen’s eyes widened and she reared back. Her arm swung through the air almost too fast to see. Still, Teague braced himself for her strike, rocking only slightly with the hit.

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“What did you say?” she asked as she rubbed her tingling palm. Though a tiny drop of blood dripped from his lip, Teague never lifted his gaze from his daughter. “I swear on my honor it is the truth. Faolan has mated with a shifter. He doesn’t wish to return.” “How dare that ungrateful little bastard!” The queen paced away from the other Fae to glare out into the wild woods. “He refuses a perfectly good match with a noble of his own race. He dares to disagree with me publicly about the direction of the war. I banish him to the mortal realm to think about his misdeeds and he compounds them by taking one of the half-breed freaks to mate. It is one thing to toy with one of those inferior creatures, use it to relieve your needs, but to mate with it. God and Goddess, what is that boy thinking?” She turned to look down on Teague, still half crouched on the ground. “You will talk sense into him. Faolan will come to me and ask me for forgiveness. He will do whatever I ask him to in order to get back in my good graces.” Teague tore his eyes from his daughter. “Queen Mother, Faolan is stubborn. You know this. How do you expect me to persuade him from his chosen course?” Queen Odelina glanced over at her granddaughter, still hanging and sobbing between the two elf guards. She smiled. “You will find a way.” Teague’s jaw clenched but he couldn’t refuse her. Odelina’s smirk grew. She’d make sure the consequences of disobedience were beyond unbearable. “I will give you my oath to do whatever is in my powers to persuade him but I would ask for a boon in return.” Now this is interesting. Is he actually trying to bargain, with me? “You think to ask me to pay you to follow my commands?” “No, Queen Mother,” he replied, bowing once more with his head against the ground. “I ask for incentive. Let me have my daughter back, if only for a short time. I want to see her, speak with her and spend some time alone with her as a father should. Please, Queen Mother. Think of it as a greater motivation.” The queen lay back down on her bower as she considered his request. It would cost her nothing and might be enough to make certain Teague did everything in his power to persuade or take his brother. “And you swear to do whatever you can to bring my wayward bastard of an offspring back to me?” “On my honor,” he whispered to the earth, wings trembling. “May you banish me and mine as well if I fail to do so.” The queen nodded to the elves. As they released the girl’s arms her granddaughter fell to her knees with a pained gasp. Odelina waved for Teague to rise. “So be it. You may speak with your daughter. Spend your time with her. But if you fail me, both you and she will join your brother in exile.”

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Chapter Sixteen Cars zoomed by the unassuming strip malls that lined Charleston Boulevard, most of the drivers never pausing to look over at the storefronts. Some signs were in English, some were in various Asian languages. Many stores had windows filled with displays of goods for sale while others boasted security screens and the occasional curtain. Lingerie shops nestled next to Korean and Japanese restaurants. Locksmiths rubbed elbows with hairdressers and wig suppliers. But it was a shop with black-barred windows lined with leather jockstraps, bras and panties that attracted Faolan. He stood outside the leather store feeling slightly overwhelmed but enjoying the rush of adrenaline that came with the sense of impending destiny. Everything was happening so fast but it felt so right. Aindreas chuckled at his side, elbowing Faolan in the ribs. “I always suspected I’d be your best man but I didn’t realize how nervous you’d be. Aren’t you the badass faerie prince I met close to two hundred years ago? Where’s all that righteous indignation and superior attitude of yours?” His stomach tightened into a heavy lump. Faolan closed his eyes for a moment, trying to silence his doubts. “This is an enormous step, Aindreas. I’ve never kept a submissive just for myself before. Not with the thought of the relationship being longterm.” “And this one is more than just some submissive you picked up at the club and kept for a time. You could and have dealt with that before. Garrick’s your mate, or at least you’re his. If what they say about wolves is right, he’ll stick by you no matter what. There’s a lot to be said about that kind of security in a relationship.” Aindreas stopped Faolan’s hand as he reached for the door. “So what’s with the pre-wedding jitters routine?” “This is not a wedding,” Faolan whispered but his denial sounded weak even to himself. And he didn’t pull away from the comfort of Aindreas’ grip. Aindreas squeezed Faolan’s hand one last time, a small pulse of elfin comfort magic moving across Faolan’s skin to help calm his nerves. “No, according to his customs you already did that when you two did the nasty. So I ask again, Faolan, my old friend, what’s your problem?” Faolan tucked a strand of hair behind his ear with magic-tingling fingers. He ran the tips over the rings climbing the edge of his ears, twisting the last one. “You’re right. I’m nervous. What if I’m doing the wrong thing? What if I’m rushing when I don’t need to? What if Garrick changes his mind about being a submissive, much less my submissive?” 95

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“You’ll be stuck with a lupin mate who doesn’t show his belly every time you walk into the room. I think you can handle that.” Aindreas eyed a whip framing one window. “Hell, you’d have fun handling that. You’d enjoy making him like it, showing him how good it feels. And he doesn’t seem the type to suddenly change his mind about what turns him on. He’d be as likely to turn straight and I don’t see that happening. Actually, I’d be more worried what’ll happen when your mommy dearest finds out about Garrick.” With a flick of his hand Faolan waved off that worry. It had taken some time living in the mortal realm but almost a century ago he’d stopped caring about the repercussions Queen Odelina could hand out to him. As long as she couldn’t harm Garrick without serious consequences, he wasn’t worried. He simply had to make certain she never had a chance to get her hands on his pup. “Not much she can do with me here and her there. Contrary to her own beliefs, she isn’t all-powerful.” “Just all bitchy.” Faolan rolled his eyes but smiled. Aindreas wasn’t known for his sense of diplomacy. Faolan wondered if that wasn’t the reason his friend had been exiled from Otherworld. “Now you’re the one who’d better hope she doesn’t have her feelers out. I believe calling her a bitch would get you severely punished.” “What’s her high bitchiness going to do, exile me?” Aindreas made a big show of looking around at the busy street and sniffing at the exhaust. “Oops, guess she already did.” “What, you’re not missing home, are you?” Aindreas’ eyes widened. His laughter was loud enough to draw the attention of a group of boys hanging out at the bus stop on the end of the block. “Not in this millennium. Not even in the next. No, just feeling petty. And you’re dodging my questions. Are we going in to place your order or not?” With a clenching stomach again, Faolan reached for the door handle. “We’re going in.” A blast of cool air and hard rock hit them as they entered the brightly lit shop. Faolan closed his eyes for a moment and took a deep breath, smelling the scent of fresh leather and a hint of magick. He’d found Master M’s shop years before and had the same feeling he got every time he entered The Keep—home. “Well, well. Two of our favorite customers. Faolan and Aindreas, what brings eye candy like you in to see us today? Looking for something in particular?” Faolan nodded his head at the curly-haired young witch manning the cashier station. With her t-shirt and jeans, she’d look like any other checker in any other store if it weren’t for the display of cock rings and realistic dildos in the glass case in front of her. Aindreas hopped up on the counter, reaching up with one hand to play with the tails of one of the many floggers that hung from a special rack in the ceiling—a hot pink deerskin flogger, of course. He gave the cashier a lascivious smirk and quick wink. “Ah, 96

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sweet Meg. We are here for a very special order, one my friend has been waiting to place for many a year. If you’d call the owner we’d be grateful.” His flirting was a bit heavy-handed but the little witch didn’t seem to mind. She grinned and shoved him off her counter. “He’s in the back and he’s even sober. I’ll go get him while you two look around. I trust you not to run out with the merchandise, and he’s made a few new things that I think you’ll enjoy.” She glanced over at Faolan. “And try to keep your friend here from leaving any butt prints on my counter. He might have a hot ass that’s well worth seeing but I’m the one stuck washing the glass smears when he leaves.” Faolan gave a flourishing bow. “Your wish is my command, sweet Meg. One should try to keep in the good graces of those who are employed in one’s favorite establishment.” “Save the bullshit playacting for your subs, Oh Great Dom. I’ll be right back with Max.” Picking up a hand-braided whip and running it through his fingers, Aindreas pouted. “Ooh, sounds like she doesn’t respect either one of us. Oh well. Guess I can mark her off my list of possible partners. Too bad, she looks like she’d be fun in bed.” “She’d be complicated. She’d want more than you expect to give and might hex you when you screwed up.” Faolan watched his friend’s reaction. Aindreas’ face took on a pensive look. He dropped the whip back on the display it came from, eyes casting around for something else to distract him. “Maybe. Or maybe she’d be the one I’m waiting for.” “Don’t worry. You won’t be waiting long. You forget. I have every intention of filling out one of those Divine Intervention questionnaires for you. And you aren’t allowed to back out.” His friend grunted, finding something that must have been a wooden rolling pin in a previous incarnation, now covered with black leather and a multitude of metal studs. Aindreas rolled it up his arm and grinned. “I gave my word. I keep my bond. Now stop hovering and try this. I think your pup would love it.” Pulling his hair over his shoulder, Faolan gave Aindreas his back. He shivered as the studs rolled over his cotton-covered skin. “Oh yes, I must get this for Garrick.” “Then I’ll add it to your bill.” Aindreas handed the pin to Faolan as they both turned to face the owner. A heavily muscled dwarf, Maximilian Ironside stomped into the room. Why the man chose to change his name to that after his exile, Faolan would never understand. But Max was a genius at his chosen trade. “Please do.” The dwarf nodded, his beard glancing his belt. He hooked his fingers in his back pocket and eyed Faolan with a combination of greed and glee. “So, you got something in mind to add to that dungeon of yours, something only I can create.”

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Faolan knew Max liked a challenge but he didn’t need the hefty, showy piece that Max expected him to request. “Not this time. I’m looking for something much smaller and more personal, a unique gift. But there will be some specialized magick involved in the making. Are you interested?” Max snorted, stroking his beard. “As long as you’re paying on time and in cash as always, I’ll get you whatever you want. Now how about we go to the back and you can describe this gift over a couple of good lagers?”

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Chapter Seventeen Garrick let a silly grin cover his face as he hopped up the steps to his mate’s home, a strange sense of fullness warming him. His mate—God and Goddess but that sounded even better than his master. To find both in one man was more than he had ever dared hope. Faolan opened the door, the light from the foyer surrounding him in a golden halo. He was dressed head to toe in black, from his leather pants and thigh-high boots to his satin shirt opened enough to show the tight expanse of warm flesh adorned with a single chain linking his nipple rings. But it was Faolan’s somber expression that had Garrick dropping to his knees at his feet. Shit, what now? “Have I done something to displease you, Master?” he murmured. Silence met his question. Garrick peeked up though lowered lids. Faolan gave him a soft smile and laid a gentle hand on the top of his head. Faolan’s entire attention seemed focused on Garrick, making his heart race. “No, pet. I have a lot on my mind tonight. I have something special planned that I’m hoping you’re ready for.” Garrick’s shoulders relaxed but his heart began pounding with anticipation. “I’m ready for whatever you wish to do with me. I trust you as my master and my mate.” Faolan nodded. Garrick arched into his hand as his master sank his fingers into Garrick’s curls briefly before letting go with a quick pat. “Prepare yourself. Strip everything but don’t put on your collar tonight. When you’re ready, meet us in the living room.” Garrick’s stomach clenched. “Us?” he asked softly. He glanced up at his master’s still-solemn face. “What I have planned for tonight necessitates a small audience.” Faolan stared down at him with tender eyes. “Don’t worry, pet. I have no intention of sharing you tonight. I’m not ready to test whether your wolf will allow sharing or not yet. Now do as I say. The rest will be explained when you are ready.” Faolan spun around and strolled out of the room, leaving a gaping Garrick in his wake. Blinking at his master’s retreating back, Garrick shook himself. He turned to open his little cabinet and follow Faolan’s command. He stopped short when his familiar collar wasn’t even on its proper shelf. Garrick felt more naked without it than he had the entire time he’d been with Faolan. Wolves weren’t domestic. They weren’t meant to be collared and kept. But he missed the sense of belonging that simple strip of leather gave him, the weight of it against his skin a reminder of his master’s attention. It left him wondering what exactly it was Faolan had in store.

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His eyes darted to the heavy oak door his master had used. His nose twitched but he barely caught Faolan’s scent anymore. Garrick waited as long as he dared. He didn’t want Master Faolan to think he was scared—a little nervous maybe but not scared. He was leader of his pack and he trusted his mate. Garrick couldn’t be scared. But what was Faolan up to? What did he want from him? Could Garrick do whatever it was that had his master looking so serious? Damn, I hate feeling all mixed-up and doubtful. It might’ve been lonely before but this whole mate thing is a lot more confusing than I thought it would be. Garrick walked into the living room, stopping just in the doorway and being careful to keep his eyes downcast no matter how tempting it was to see who else waited for him. He could barely catch the scent of the other underneath the smell of wood burning in the fireplace. It was enough to realize the smell belonged to a male and not a human paranormal. Garrick just hoped it was Aindreas. “Well, you’ve taught him good form. He’s behaving almost as well as I can. But I would’ve been quicker,” the elf’s laughing voice boomed. The muscles in Garrick’s shoulders loosened a bit. At least it wasn’t someone he didn’t know. And it was someone who already understood his secret and would keep it. He should’ve trusted Faolan would protect him from harm. “I’m sure he’s feeling a bit leery. I haven’t told him why you’re here yet.” The urge to look up at his master’s voice was almost too hard to resist. Almost. But Garrick managed to keep his eyes locked on the hardwood floor. He knew what his master expected and he’d make Faolan proud. Now if he only knew what his master had planned for him tonight. “And all the wondering is probably driving the poor boy mad with anticipation.” Aindreas’ laugh sent a shiver down Garrick’s spine. He had to fight not to look up. “Good choice.” “I am known for being good at this.” Faolan chuckled and ran his fingers through Garrick’s hair. Garrick shivered under his obvious approval. “Don’t I know it,” Aindreas snickered, stepping close enough that Garrick could see the tips of his toes and feel the heat coming from his body. Garrick held himself perfectly still though his wolf urged him to move. God and Goddess but he wanted to look up. Instead he kept his eyes locked to the floor and his hands behind his back. “Come inside, pet,” Faolan whispered as he pulled his fingers from Garrick’s hair. “I want you kneeling with your back to the fireplace.” Garrick stepped forward and let his body flow into position. The warmth of the fire at his back, which should have been relaxing, only served to heat the blood already pulsing through his body in anticipation. What would Faolan do? Had he displeased his master? Did Faolan plan on letting Aindreas watch his punishment? Strangely the

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thought of someone else witnessing his submission sent a surge of blood to Garrick’s half-aroused cock, bringing him to full attention. “My, my,” Aindreas exclaimed. “I definitely see what it is about him that draws you. My goodness but he’s a big boy all over.” Faolan cleared his throat and the elf fell silent. Garrick struggled to remain still, to not look. Whatever the reason for this show, he’d prove himself to his master. He would make Faolan proud in front of his friend. “Yes, he is,” Faolan agreed. “Just remember, look but don’t touch. He’s all mine.” Garrick trembled a bit under the approval he heard in his voice—approval and pleasure he’d caused. “That’s plain mean, putting a smorgasbord like that in front of a man and then telling him no touching,” Aindreas pouted. But he stepped back and soon Garrick heard the squeak of leather on leather as he took a seat on the other side of the room. “Oh well, lucky we’re such good friends.” His master chuckled as he walked across the room from Garrick. A lock clicked, followed by the slide of wood on wood. Finally the crack of Faolan’s heels on hardwood came back toward him. A single finger slid beneath Garrick’s chin and tilted his face up. Faolan’s clear green eyes glittered as he looked down at him. Faolan didn’t smile but he didn’t look stern or angered either. “Hands forward, palms up.” Garrick obeyed without question, balancing on his knees. Faolan placed a rectangular wooden box in his hands. He looked down at it then up at his master, askance. What did he want? Finally a small smile brightened Faolan’s expression. “It’s a present, pet—a special present and one that deserves a bit of ceremony, hence our small audience. Go ahead and open it.” Lifting the hinged lid, Garrick found two strips of black leather nestled inside. His fingers fumbled a bit as he drew out the larger strip. It was a collar with platinum chains lacing the edges and three D-rings strategically attached. The words “My Beloved Pet” had been intricately inlaid in platinum as well. He grinned at the words, his heart expanding as he blinked back the urge to cry. He wasn’t some weak little omega to let his emotions take over. He carefully put the collar back and pulled out the smaller strip. What he’d taken for leather was actually a strange material he’d never seen before. It had the feel and look of leather but it stretched and snapped back into place almost like elastic. It was much smaller than the collar and had line of platinum studs edging it. The words “My Mate. Love F.” were inlaid while a small heart-shaped lock held the ends together. Garrick looked up at his master, almost afraid to hope. “I knew you wouldn’t want to wear the collar anywhere public so I had the cuff made as well.” For the first time Faolan’s nervousness showed in the slight tremor in

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his voice as he explained. “The material is a special creation a friend invented—part physical elements and part magickal. It will adjust to your human and wolf forms so you don’t have to worry about it falling off or being damaged when you change. It will always be there to serve as a physical reminder of me.” His master paused and closed his eyes. His chest rose and fell as he took a deep breath. Finally Faolan stared down at him with what Garrick hoped was his love shining in his gaze. He licked his lips before speaking. “Will you accept my cuff and collar?” Garrick’s heart skipped a beat as he realized what his master was telling him, what Faolan wanted from him. “You are my mate. That is the truth. I will accept anything to keep you as my mate and my master.” Faolan pursed his lips slightly, shaking his head. “This isn’t about following my wishes. This has to be about what you want.” Garrick smiled, head bowed for a moment before looking up and meeting Faolan’s eyes. “I understand and I want you.” He lifted the collar to his neck. Faolan’s hands brushed Garrick’s away from the closure, his fingers nimbly buckling the leather strip into place. He then lifted the cuff and locked it around Garrick’s wrist. Faolan lifted a chain from around his neck so Garrick could see the tiny key. “Not that I’m ever planning on using it.” Faolan grinned as he dropped it back under the cloth of his shirt. “But I can always feel you near my heart.” He turned to Aindreas. “Do you witness this union?” “I do.” The elf stood and gripped Faolan in a quick hug, slapping his back. “And I’m damned jealous too. So I’ll leave you two to finish up on your own.” Faolan didn’t say anything but Garrick watched carefully as Aindreas turned and left the room. His attention jerked back to his master as Faolan looped his finger through one of the rings on Garrick’s collar and pulled him to his feet. “Now it’s just you and me, pet,” Faolan whispered, his breath fanning Garrick’s mouth, causing his lips to tingle. “And I believe you deserve a special reward. What do you think?” Garrick licked his lips, watching his master’s eyes follow the movement of his tongue. Hunger glowed in Faolan’s gaze, blazing through Garrick’s blood. “I think I want whatever you’d like to give me.” “Nice answer but not what I’m looking for tonight. Do you feel that you deserve something special?” “I don’t know if I deserve it.” Garrick leaned in close to breathe in his mate’s, his master’s, scent. He whimpered softly as the fresh floral smell that belonged only to Faolan filled his head. “But I want it. I want this night to be extraordinary, something we can look back on in the years to come and remember with a special glow in our hearts.”

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Faolan chuckled, running his fingers through Garrick’s thick hair. “A romantic sentiment from a man not many would consider a romantic. But I agree completely. So, is there something special you want to try? I picked up a few new toys when I bought your collar and cuff.” Garrick could feel the wolf inside him crouching down, mouth open and tongue hanging out as he held his tail high and wagging. He shivered in anticipation. “That sounds sweet. I could use some playtime, a chance to relax. But there is one thing I want.” Stepping back, Faolan grinned up at him. “And what is that, pup?” “I want to be in you again.” He needed that connection to his mate again, along with the time spent with his master. “I want a chance to fuck you so hard you’ll always remember I’m a part of you—that I belong to you and with you.” For a second Faolan’s eyes went liquid. But he blinked and the moment was gone. “I think that can be arranged.” He reached up and looped his finger through the largest D-ring on Garrick’s new collar, pulling Garrick’s face down to his own. His breath caressed Garrick’s lips. “But I’m still in control, pup. You’re mine until I tell you otherwise.” “I wouldn’t have it any other way, Master.” Faolan released him and stepped over to the mantle to pick up a short black leash. “Good.” He snapped the leash in place and led Garrick to a huge, ornately carved, wooden door at the opposite end of the room, a door he’d never taken Garrick through before. Garrick followed quickly, never allowing the leash go taut. He didn’t need to be dragged to this new place. He had a sneaking suspicion of which room he was being led to and his curiosity couldn’t be higher. It didn’t take long for his suspicions to be confirmed—a private dungeon done Faolan-style. Garrick stood still in the doorway, taking it all in. From the St. Andrew’s cross against one wall to the array of whips, floggers, paddles and canes that hung from the other, everything he’d expected from a fully stocked dungeon lined the room. But it didn’t stop there. That wouldn’t be fitting of his Master Faolan. The room wasn’t dark, dank and frightening. It was well-lit and smelled clean and fresh. The walls weren’t red and black, an ode to everything gothic. No, the floor was the darkest part of the room, covered in slate of varying shades of gray. The walls were a deep grassy green while the ceiling mirrored the floor but in a lighter, steel gray. Tall, lush trees and plants dotted the room along with the toys. A massive satin-covered bed dominated one corner, with thick posts with manacles embedded in the wood. And in the center of the room was a hot tub large enough to fit ten or more people with ease. Garrick turned to look at his master, who raised a single brow. “What can I say? I enjoy my creature comforts.” “As much as I like my discomforts?” Grinning, Garrick tossed his head in the direction of the flogging display. 103

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Faolan wrapped the leash around his hand over and over again until his knuckles rested under Garrick’s chin. “Just because I said you get a reward tonight doesn’t give you the right to get cheeky with me.” Faolan’s face remained impassive with his words but his voice shook with barely suppressed laughter. “I don’t know. Do you want me to be cheeky? I can do cheeky.” Laughter echoed through the room as Faolan undid the clasp on the leash. “Oh, I’m sure you can. But not tonight. Tonight I want time to explore my pet, my pup, my mate.” “Your mate?” Garrick couldn’t meet his eyes after saying it. Damn, that sounded needy. “Of course my mate.” Faolan forced Garrick’s gaze up, caressing the leather around Garrick’s throat as he did so. “I thought the collar told you that.” “Yeah, well, I like to hear you say it.” His comment was met with silence as Faolan walked to the wall to pick from the display. He turned back to Garrick with a smirk. “I think I have something you’d enjoy. Lie on the bed, back up.” Garrick’s eyes widened at the object in Faolan’s hands. “Are you sure about that?” “It’s not what you’re thinking. Don’t you trust me?” “Yes, but that’s one wicked-looking rolling pin. As a lupin I can take and heal quickly from massive amounts of damage but that doesn’t mean I’d enjoy the process of getting the crap beat out of me.” Faolan shook his head but he didn’t let go of the metal-studded monstrosity. “I’m not planning on hitting you over the head with it. So unless you’re planning on using your safe word, lie on the bed with your back up.” Garrick crawled across the massive bed, lying with his head propped on his crossed arms. He closed his eyes and let go. Faolan would keep him safe. He did trust his mate. Cold, that was the first sensation to sink into his skin. The metallic points weren’t sharp enough to cut. Actually, they almost tickled. That sensation along with the coolness of the metal sent shivers down his spine. But as the studs rolled down his back, his muscles relaxed under the massage. “You can push harder.” A warm, wet swipe of a tongue followed by a quick nip was Faolan’s first answer. “This might be your reward, your night, but I am still the master.” Back and forth, Faolan rolled the studs across his skin. Garrick lost track of time, lost track of everything. All that existed was the growing warmth of the metal as his skin heated it—total and utter relaxation. “That’s my pup. You make me so happy.” Faolan’s breath caressed Garrick’s ear. “But now it’s my turn.” He gave Garrick a quick slap on the ass. “Up. This isn’t all for you. I get some attention as well.”

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Garrick groaned as he sat up. He’d been so comfortable he’d almost fallen asleep. Of course that wouldn’t do at all. Still, he eyed the bizarre rolling pin with a newfound appreciation. “Okay, I think I’ve actually found something I like better than the flogger.” “I knew you would. You just need to remember that I will always take care of you.” Faolan took a moment, carefully pulling off one boot at a time. Garrick watched breathlessly as his master peeled his leather pants off, freeing a hard cock framed in a nest of blond curls. “Now, time for you to repay my kindness.” Garrick licked his lips. Please say Master wants what I think he wants. Garrick’s mouth watered for a taste. “Yes?” “On your knees, pup.” Faolan moved until he sat on the side of the bed, looking down at Garrick. “I want your mouth on me.” Still staring at his master’s, his mate’s, hard cock, Garrick grinned. He scrambled off the bed, a little less than gracefully. But he made it to his knees in no time, sliding between Faolan’s spread thighs. Faolan reached down to run his fingers through Garrick’s thick curls. “I love your hair, pup. The way it wraps around my fingertips, the silky smooth feel of it running against my palms.” Garrick rubbed his cheek against the inside of Faolan’s thigh, letting those very curls dance against the bare skin. He was rewarded with his master’s sigh. “Nice. Very nice, but you haven’t done as I’ve told you. I want your mouth on me, now.” Sticking out his tongue, Garrick first teased the opening at the very tip of Faolan’s cock. He collected a small pearl of precum, humming to himself as he absorbed the flavor of his mate. Faolan groaned and leaned back on his elbows, letting Garrick do as he pleased. He wrapped one hand around the base of Faolan’s cock and reached for his balls. Palming his master’s sac, Garrick sucked Faolan as deeply as he could. He hollowed his cheeks and watched Faolan’s eyes roll back in his head with the suction. He pulled off and lapped at the head of the cock. He reached back, taking his hand from Faolan’s ball sac. In time with the rhythm of his tongue across the tip of Faolan’s cock, Garrick ran a single finger over the area between Faolan’s balls and anus. Faolan dug his fingers into Garrick’s hair, pulling him back. Garrick rolled onto his heels. “Did I displease you?” His master laughed. “Far from it, pup. You keep that up and I’ll be finished. If you want to take me tonight I want to come with you in my ass not before. Under the pillow is a bottle of lube. Get it and get ready for me.” Garrick grinned but didn’t have to be told twice. He scrambled to his feet as Faolan scooted back across the satin sheets.

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By the time Garrick turned back to Faolan, his master was on his back. His hands gripped his knees, spreading his thighs in a wide M pattern. Garrick’s hands fumbled on the lid of the lube. Faolan chuckled. “Excited?” Garrick’s heart thumped. He reached out to tug lightly on the chain connecting Faolan’s two nipple rings. “I have hot faerie ass spread out for me and permission to take what I want from my master. Why would I possibly be excited?” Faolan let go of one knee. He reached up to spin one ring through his nipple, groaning and wiggling his ass. Garrick eyed that tempting ass, licking his lips. He coated his fingers in lube. Carefully he circled Faolan’s opening. Slowly he dipped a single finger inside, letting it sink in to the first knuckle before pulling out. A grin spread across Garrick’s face and Faolan laced his fingers through Garrick’s hair. But the grin quickly dropped as Faolan jerked his hair. “Ouch!” Faolan glared down at him. “Stop treating me like I’ll shatter. I’m not some shrinking cherry. Lube up and get to business already.” No wonder he’s a master. He’s a pushy bottom. Garrick reared back and coated his cock with a generous amount of lube, making a point to pump himself a few times as Faolan watched with hungry, glittering eyes. “You sure you want it now?” Garrick didn’t want to hurt his master, his mate. “Please.” Faolan tossed his hair and glared at Garrick. “Don’t insult me. I want it now and I like it a bit rough if you hadn’t noticed.” Garrick took him at his word, lining his cock up. He grabbed Faolan’s hips and thrust in to the hilt, his balls slapping Faolan’s ass. Faolan groaned, his eyes rolling up. Garrick brushed a lock of his hair back. “Are you okay?” With a growl, Faolan arched up. “Of course I’m okay. I’m fucking fantastic. But if you don’t move soon, I’ll strangle you.” A quick peal of laughter burst from Garrick, his spasms causing Faolan to whimper and claw at his lower back. This time Garrick took the hint and moved. He set a rapid pace, twisting just a bit as he tried to make certain he pegged Faolan just right. Garrick watched closely for the slightest hint of pain in his mate’s expression. Faolan’s head tossed and his teeth clenched. He panted and made the most wonderful, needy sounds. His ass clenched around Garrick, bringing him quickly close to completion. But Faolan’s expression didn’t even hint at pain. Realizing he couldn’t hold back for much longer, Garrick reached between them for Faolan’s cock. “Yes,” Faolan hissed, arching into Garrick’s grasp. One, two, three more thrusts and Faolan spilled over Garrick’s fingers. His mate’s orgasm triggered his own, Garrick filling Faolan’s ass. His arms shaking, Garrick quickly rolled to the side, not wanting to crush Faolan. His mate chuckled. “I’m the one who’s supposed to look after you.” 106

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“I’ve learned from the best.” Faolan rolled toward him, fingering his new collar. “That you have. Best not forget it.” With a smile, Garrick allowed himself a moment more to enjoy his cuddle time. He closed his eyes, holding his mate close to his heart He could definitely learn to enjoy this. But something tugged at the back of his mind. His inner wolf paced, preoccupied. Faolan laid a hand on his chest. “What is it?” “I’m not sure—pack, maybe? I need to check in. Something doesn’t feel right.” He rolled to his feet, turning to offer Faolan a hand. The faerie ignored it, hopping to his own feet and brushing Garrick’s cheek with a soft kiss. “Well, make it quick. I have plans for the rest of the evening, plans I’m sure you’ll enjoy.” Grinning and holding his hand to his cheek, Garrick practically swaggered out of the room and through the house to his cabinet in the foyer. He pulled out his cell, fingers poised to call his beta. Instead he saw that he had five separate texts from Bryce. Garrick’s stomach dropped as he read the first text. He knew it had been coming but he’d hoped he’d have more time. Watching Garrick’s expression, Faolan stepped forward. He wrapped himself around Garrick, nipping and kissing his shoulder. “What is it, pet?” “I’ve been challenged.”

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Chapter Eighteen The tension in the room lay thick in the air, almost suffocating in its intensity. Men and women of all ages glared either up at their leader or over at those who planned to challenge his authority. But none spared a glance for Faolan. None acknowledged his presence beside their Alpha, eyes darting down or to the side. That was just fine by Faolan. After his idiot brother had caused this mess with his oversized mouth, Faolan wasn’t in the mood to deal with fools. Instead he stood beside Garrick and glowered at the middle-aged lupin and his followers who challenged his mate. How dare they believe Garrick to be less an Alpha because of how he liked his sex and with whom? Did they really think what happened in the bedroom had any bearing whatsoever on how well he could take care of his people? Didn’t Garrick’s history show them how strong a leader he was or were their prejudices still so ingrained? Either way, Faolan planned to stand here by his mate and watch him tear this idiot a new one—literally. Garrick stripped and stood in front of them, leaving only his new cuff on his wrist, giving Faolan a momentary stab of pride. God and Goddess, his man was magnificent, tall and covered with rippling muscles while projecting a deep inner strength. Garrick glowed with a wild vitality. Only an idiot could think to compete with him. Faolan snorted. And there the fool paced at the opposite end of the hall, all puffed up and full of false ego. The other wolf, Joe, stood nude as well, waiting for the signal to change. He was nowhere near as physically intimidating as Faolan’s mate, smaller in stature and leaner in form. He possessed none of the innate aura of strength that Garrick possessed. Faolan wondered how the other lupin managed to attract any following at all, beyond a binding flow of prejudice. But in the end there was no comparison. This fight wouldn’t take long, as long as Garrick’s beta could keep everyone else out of it. But Faolan knew Garrick worried that it was only the first of many battles. Unfortunately, Garrick was probably right. If he didn’t feel so loyal to his pack, Faolan knew, Garrick would say to hell with it and leave them to their own devices. But they were his family, his responsibility. The Garrick that Faolan knew wouldn’t be able to abandon them. But if they kept this shit up, Faolan would make them pay. It didn’t do to piss off a Fae, especially a noble. For now it was Garrick’s job to put down a groundless insurrection, but they’d better watch their steps. The pack really didn’t want him to step in. Faolan knew ways of making them hurt that would last a very long time and would never be traced back to him. Faolan’s skin prickled as he felt the gathering magic swirl through the room—wild, almost feral, rubbing against his own more cultured powers. While lesser shifters could 108

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only assume the form of their animal, the stronger shifters had more control, the ability to stop the shift at any point. But the magic involved was a palpable force to those who lived and breathed through the power of magick. Faolan watched as hair poured out of his mate. Muscles flowed and shifted, changing and expanding Garrick’s shape until a hulking creature of nightmares took his place. But the entire transformation was strangely devoid of sound. Garrick panted and groaned a bit but there were no bones or joints popping. The magick created an almost liquid flow from one form to the next. Across the hall the other lupin went through the same change, fur erupting to cover the larger, vaguely humanoid body. At some unknown signal the two combatants leapt at each other, covering the distance in bounds that would’ve made Hong Kong filmmakers with their wires and unreal aerial acrobatics envious. Garrick landed on top, shoving and pinning the other man to the ground. His muzzle peeled back into a gleaming snarl. His growl rumbled deep in his throat, the sound alone sending shivers down Faolan’s spine. Damn if he wasn’t getting hard from all the testosterone flowing through the room. God and Goddess, he couldn’t wait to get Garrick home, tie him down and fuck him senseless. Maybe Faolan could get his mate to growl like that while he pounded him. Yes, the next time Faolan had Garrick in his house, he’d own that ass. Garrick snapped his teeth near the other lupin’s neck, showing clearly what he would do if forced while still holding back. Even in the midst of battle he gave his challenger one last chance to back down. Faolan didn’t know if he respected the sentiment or thought it foolish. But what Faolan thought really didn’t matter. The other lupin refused that chance to give up. He bent his knees and dug his claws into Garrick’s stomach, slicing through the vulnerable flesh. It took all Faolan’s willpower not to launch himself across the room and rip into the other wolf. Lethal hexes trembled on his tongue and he felt the power coalescing around his right hand. But Garrick had this. Faolan knew his love could more than handle this. Garrick was in no way weak. It was just so fucking hard standing to the side and watching the man he loved being hurt. It went completely against his nature. Meanwhile, Garrick didn’t pull away from his adversary, didn’t give the other lupin the satisfaction of retreat. As the scent of his blood filled the air, Garrick actually leaned into the strike. He didn’t waste any time fooling around now that his last warning had been rejected. Garrick closed his mouth around the lupin’s neck. Faolan couldn’t smell new blood but the other lupin whined. A crack echoed through the room. Suddenly, where once a creature out of a bad monster movie had lain beneath Garrick, a naked man lay sprawled with hands open wide and head hanging at an odd angle. 109

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Garrick stepped back and re-formed. The change healed his wounds but it didn’t make Faolan feel any better about not being able to help him. The room seemed to hold its breath waiting for the next attack. It couldn’t be this simple. Nothing was ever this simple. A sudden breeze ripped through the room, accompanied by a familiar scent and annoying chiming sound. Teague stood in the middle of the room, wings fluttering around him and a young girl clutched at his side. The feel of the room turned even darker. Transformation magick gathered. Faolan rushed to Garrick’s side. He might be Alpha and in control of the pack but Teague was his brother and Fae. Teague was his responsibility. “What are you doing here?” Faolan placed himself between his brother and the rest of the room, expecting his mate to keep his pack from ripping through him. Then Teague did something Faolan never expected. He fell to his knees, dragging the young child down beside him. He looked up, eyes beseeching Faolan. “I’m here to ask for sanctuary from the only one I know who might give it,” he proclaimed loudly enough for the entire room to hear. The girl made no sound. Faolan laughed darkly as the lupins began to growl. He could feel the tension in the room rising even higher. “After the trouble you caused here tonight, you honestly expect me to grant you sanctuary?” He lifted his head but wouldn’t or couldn’t meet Faolan’s eyes. “I had no choice.” “We all have a choice,” Faolan replied, his disappointment almost a physical pain. Damn, he’d trusted his brother more than most of his family. “And we have to live with the consequence.” “It’s not Father’s fault,” the young girl piped in, pushing away from his brother. Eyes identical to Teague’s glared up in defiance. Faolan raised an eyebrow. His niece stood and met his gaze. Her delicate wings stayed frozen with no tension apparent. “Mother died and Grandmother took me. Father did what he could to get me back.” Faolan felt his heart squeeze in his chest. In that position, knowing what his mother was capable of, would he have behaved any differently than Teague? “Is that why you beg sanctuary? To protect your child?” “Yes. If you don’t return I’ll be considered a failure. We will both be banished.” Teague looked up at him again, but a little of the usual gleam shone in his eyes. Faolan’s lips twitched. “Which is exactly what you were hoping for. I want your honest answer.” “Yes.” Teague reached for his daughter’s hand. Gripping her fingers, he rose to his feet. “I apologize for any harm done but I could find no other way out for us. Please, Brother.”

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“It isn’t my decision to make.” Faolan looked back at Garrick, still standing nude above his dead challenger. “This is Garrick’s pack, his land, his decision. I’m sure the advantages of having three Fae tied to the pack has occurred to him already. But it’s his job to weigh those advantages against the risks of harboring three exiles.” Teague had the grace to look embarrassed, wings twitching in distress. “I understand. I only ask that you, as my brother, at least intercede on your niece’s behalf.” “I make no guarantees.” “But I do.” Garrick stepped forward, offering his hand to Teague. “You’re my mate’s family. As such, you’re my family. Family means pack and I will not turn my back on my pack no matter what the reason.” After helping Teague to his feet, Garrick turned to face his people, some already furry and on all fours. “I have never questioned anyone’s choice of mate. None should. Selecting a mate is the job of the God and Goddess, preordained. I expect the same respect when it comes to the choice they made for me. I am pack leader. My word is law.” He looked pointedly at his challenger being dragged from the room. “There will be no more challenges, no more talk about what my mate is or what we may do in our bed. That is my business, not yours. The God and Goddess paired the two of us. I will not question their reasoning.” He turned back to Teague but Faolan caught the darting look Garrick cast at his niece—family and children, the heart of the pack. “We will talk, brother-in-law, about how we shall work together and what your position in the pack will be. You will be accepted as pack and you will have to abide by our laws. But I will protect your child as one of my own. What say you?” Teague actually looked embarrassed as he met Garrick’s gaze. “I will swear whatever oath you would have from me. But you should be warned that our queen mother is trying to find a way back here to the mortal world, a way to reawaken the war.” Garrick laughed. “I’m certain half the inhabitants of Otherworld are behind her. Hell, it won’t be easy for you here, either. Just be certain whose side you want to be on.” Teague looked down at his daughter’s pale, thin face. “I know.” “Good.” Garrick turned and gave Faolan a lascivious grin. “Now I have other matters that need attending. Would you like to see my office here?” Faolan met his grin with one of his own. “Most certainly.” He let Garrick take him by the elbow and guide him out of the room.

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Chapter Nineteen As soon as the door to Garrick’s office closed behind them Faolan jerked his arm out of Garrick’s grasp. Garrick met his gaze but held it only for a moment before dropping his eyes. Though he couldn’t see it, Faolan gave a half-smile at his quick acquiescence. Garrick might be big, bad, kick-ass Alpha out there but with him he’d always be his puppy. “You wanted something, pet?” Faolan struggled to keep the pleasure from showing in his voice. Garrick’s gaze flicked back to Faolan’s face. “Thank you.” Faolan arched his brows, not quickly enough to mask his surprise. But he wanted to see where this conversation led so he stepped away from Garrick and farther into the room. He stopped and leaned against the back of a soft leather couch. “For what?” “Supporting me tonight without interfering, letting my pack see that I was still Alpha. You didn’t have to even be here. I know you can’t be completely comfortable with the idea of being my mate yet so I appreciate the fact that you stood by me tonight. It’ll make things easier for me.” Faolan snorted, crossing his arms and ankles. “Now I don’t know whether to appreciate your gratitude or be insulted.” Garrick blinked up at him. “Insulted?” “You’ve forgotten something very important.” Faolan wiped all emotion from his face and voice. “You are Alpha to the pack but who is your master?” “You are,” Garrick replied without pause, already assuming proper position, feet together and hands behind his back. “At least you remember that much.” Garrick flinched at the disappointment Faolan allowed to color his voice. For a moment Faolan wanted to take pity on his brave wolf but he had a point to make. “If you are my pet and I am your master, I have responsibilities to you, more so if we’re mated. You are here for my pleasure. But a good master takes care of his pet, is responsible for his happiness. I rather doubt that if your pack fell apart you would be happy.” “So you were just playing a role?” Garrick asked slowly, as if measuring each word. “You are so being punished for that comment.” Faolan frowned but didn’t move. “Don’t be dense. This isn’t about role-playing. If you just wanted a little kink added to your sexual repertoire, I’m sure you could’ve found some hot little lupin out there willing to top you or spank you occasionally for a little spice. I am what I am. I take care of those who belong to me. You belong to me. As an Alpha, I’m sure you understand that feeling.”

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“Yes.” Garrick’s reply held little conviction. “You protect and care for your pack. But you need to understand who it is who will protect and care for you. You are mine.” He smiled at the surety in Faolan’s voice. “Yours.” Faolan nodded finally, stepping forward and wrapping his arms around Garrick. He kissed Garrick, wanting to taste that word on his lips. Garrick groaned and pulled Faolan into him. Nipping at Garrick’s lower lip before breaking away, Faolan smiled up at Garrick’s hungry gaze. “I believe I owe you a punishment. Have all the other puppies gone home for the evening?” He blinked but grinned. “No, Master. But no one will bother us here.” “Wipe that smile off your face. You have nothing to smile about. You didn’t have faith in your master. You doubted my sincerity. I can’t allow that to pass. You need to remember who takes care of you, who has your well-being in mind.” Garrick’s smile faded and he tried to look properly chastised but the expression was an obvious fake. We’ll just see about that. He kept his eyes downcast as Faolan paced around him. Faolan remained silent, watching the anticipation strain Garrick’s muscles. How sweet. How tasty. He reached down and roughly fondled Garrick’s sac, pleased his pup hadn’t taken time to dress after his battle. Let’s see how rough my pretty pet likes it. Garrick gasped, arching into his fist. Faolan rolled Garrick’s balls back and forth between his fingers. Occasionally he slid a single finger to rub the smooth flesh just behind Garrick’s balls, one of his mate’s favorite hot spots. His pet whimpered. “What should I do with a bad pet like you? It has to be something you’ll remember next time. Something that will leave an impression so you won’t ever doubt your master again. But what?” “Whatever you wish, Master. I deserve whatever you wish to do to me.” Garrick panted, rising up on his toes and leaning into Faolan’s caress. “Good answer.” Faolan dropped to his knees. He gave Garrick’s balls a quick squeeze, keeping the pressure at the edge of true pain. His pet hissed and rocked on his toes. Faolan softly slapped Garrick’s straining cock, smiling as Garrick gasped. “None of that, now. No moving. You have to trust that I won’t take you beyond what you can handle and that I will respect your safe word. Do you need your den?” He tossed his head while his toes curled into the floor. “No, Master. God and Goddess, no.”

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“Then don’t move unless I tell you to.” Faolan ran his fingers over Garrick’s clenching thighs. “I’m going to play with my pet and I expect him to do as I ask.” Garrick’s cock jumped, brushing Faolan’s cheek. “Yes, Master.” “Good. Now, you can’t come until I tell you. You will be severely punished if you do. Do you understand?” “Yes.” Faolan glanced up at him, giving Garrick his most wicked smile. “Good.” Now let’s see how much my pet can take, he thought as he continued fondling Garrick’s balls and rubbed his cheek against his cock. Garrick made a throaty whine and clenched his hands into fists but otherwise remained perfectly still. Faolan inhaled Garrick’s musky scent, a mixture of wild midnight and pure male animal. His mouth watered in anticipation. He leaned in and lapped at the head of Garrick’s cock with a flat tongue, running his platinum stud around the sensitive ridge surrounding the head. Garrick’s entire body trembled and a fine coating of goose bumps erupted across his skin. His toes curled into the floor, nails scraping hardwood in time with each flick of Faolan’s tongue. Faolan pulled back and gave his cock another slap. Garrick’s eyes widened and he gasped but didn’t move. He stayed in position. That deserved a reward. Without warning Faolan dipped his head again and swallowed him to the root. “Shit, yeah.” Garrick’s body trembled. Faolan put his hands on Garrick’s ass to brace himself, enjoying the feel of his buttocks quivering against the urge to thrust down his throat. His pet was trying so hard to be good, so hard to make things up to his master. Faolan moved his hands back around to Garrick’s balls, velvet-soft skin drawn up so very tight. He was close. Faolan slid a single finger to the area just behind again. A few quick rubs accompanied by a swallow and he could hear Garrick gnashing his teeth above him. “Master,” Garrick growled, “I’m gonna come. Can’t stop it. Please. I’ve got to come.” Faolan moved back, wrapping his hand around the base of Garrick’s cock and squeezing tight. Garrick groaned but didn’t resist. “No, not yet. You’re not allowed to come yet. You haven’t given me enough to be allowed to come.” Garrick tilted his head back, eyes closed tight and jaw muscles clenching. His black curls made a perfect frame for his tortured face. The artist in Faolan wished for nothing more than the chance to render this one moment in oils, keep it locked for all time so he could never forget how Garrick looked as he struggled to please his master. But the master in him knew that Garrick wasn’t close to ready yet. He needed to push his pet further. They both needed to test the limits of his dedication. Faolan had to know Garrick belonged to him. Mind, body and soul.

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Faolan released Garrick and rose to his feet. “Follow.” He led Garrick to the chaise lounge facing the fireplace. He laid Garrick down on it, posing his body just as he wanted it. Hands clasped behind his head. One knee bent, acting as a frame for his straining cock while at the same time the action bunched his stomach muscles. Faolan stepped back and looked his fill. “Master?” Garrick whispered cautiously. “You may speak.” “What do you want from me?” Faolan ran his hand across Garrick’s stomach, loving how the lean muscles rippled beneath his palm. “I want you to trust me enough to care for you. I want you to trust me enough to stand by you and be there when you need me. And I want you to trust me enough to punish you when you get out of line.” Garrick blinked and something in his eyes crumbled just a bit. “I’m sorry I disappointed you this evening, Master.” “How did you disappoint me?” Faolan asked in return. Garrick had to prove that he understood. “I should have known you’d want to be beside me, face my pack with me. I shouldn’t have been surprised.” The last bit of tension eased from Faolan’s shoulders. “Yes.” “I’m so sorry, Master.” Garrick’s stomach quivered again under his palm as Faolan rubbed his skin in circles. “Please forgive me.” “Even if I said I did, would you feel forgiven?” He paused before answering. Faolan could see the deep questioning going through his mind. He could tell Garrick exactly what he wanted, what he needed at that moment. But that wouldn’t help him. Garrick had to find these answers on his own. “No,” he sighed, relaxing into Faolan’s caress. “What would make you feel forgiven?” Garrick had trouble meeting Faolan’s gaze, his eyes locking over his master’s shoulder. “I deserve harsher punishment than simple denial. I hurt you. I didn’t mean to but my disbelief in you hurt you.” “If I gave my bad pet the spanking he deserves, would that make you feel better?” “Yes, please, Master. I think I need it.” “You think?” Faolan curled his fingers to rake up from Garrick’s stomach and stopped just below his nipple. He arched toward Faolan’s nails. “I need it. Please. I need to feel your hand on me. I need to know you’re there for me. I need to know that someone is there to take care of me for a change. I’m so tired of being the strong one all the damned time.” Faolan smiled and removed his hand. “That’s what I needed to hear. Now stand.”

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Garrick staggered to his feet. Faolan continued talking as he arranged himself on the chaise and looked around the room. “Too bad we’re not at my house. I could get one of my nice leather paddles. Maybe one with studs so you really feel it or one with a cutout to make a little design on your ass that you’ll feel all day and think of me. Oh well, we’ll just make do with the old-fashioned way. Go to that wall. Put your palms on it, lean forward and spread your legs.” He watched as his pet arranged himself to his desire. Firelight danced across Garrick’s form, a mix of shadow and light. So tall. So proud. So strong. So his. Faolan gave him a moment to let the anticipation build. Then he came to him and placed one hand against the small of his back. He rubbed in soothing circles. “I love this ass of yours. Tight with soft skin. It turns such a rosy shade when struck. I love knowing you walk around with my mark, a reminder of me. It makes me feel connected to you, even when I’m not there. Does that make sense to you, pet?” “Yes, Master.” “You feel it too. Good.” Keeping his left hand against the small of Garrick’s back, Faolan slapped hard with his right. Garrick gasped but didn’t move. He continued striking, feeling Garrick’s skin turn pink and warm under his hand. Yet Garrick stood perfectly still through each blow until Faolan felt he’d had enough to free him of some of the guilt. He stepped forward and wrapped his arms around Garrick, pressing his body against Garrick’s back. “Good boy. Such a good pet. And so lovely wearing my mark. You are mine, aren’t you? My pet.” “Yes, Master. I’m yours.” Faolan squeezed tighter. “And I am your master. I belong to you as much as you belong to me.” “Yes.” “Then come. Undress me.” Garrick spun around, hands grasping at Faolan’s clothes the moment he stepped away. Faolan slapped his hands. “No, no. You can’t tear. I like this outfit and plan on wearing it out of your home. Treat it with respect.” Garrick closed his eyes and took a deep, slow breath. Careful fingers unbuttoned Faolan’s top, folding the silk and laying it on the chaise. Kneeling at his feet, Garrick pulled off Faolan’s boots and placed them side by side before easing his pants down. He stacked them neatly next to the rest of his clothes. Still on his knees, he looked up at Faolan with needy eyes. “May I, Master?” Like I would say no to that request. That would be more punishment to me than to him. But it wouldn’t do to let him know that. “Since you asked so nicely.”

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He took Faolan’s heavy cock in hand and lapped at the small slit at the tip. Oh, that magic tongue of his. Electric heat coursed up Faolan’s body from the point of contact. His nipples hardened and his mouth went dry. Faolan sank his fingers in Garrick’s hair as Garrick opened wide and took his cock to the root. Faolan’s legs trembled. If he let him keep this up, Garrick would bring his to his knees. But Faolan couldn’t resist closing his eyes and enjoying the suction of Garrick’s sweet mouth for a moment. Finally Faolan tugged Garrick’s hair. He resisted for the barest second but followed his silent command. As Garrick pulled back from him, Faolan dropped to his knees in front of him. But he wasn’t about to give up control just yet. “Lie back.” Faolan purred his command. “I’m in the mood for a ride.” The smile Garrick gave could’ve lit the Strip. “Your wish is my command, Master,” he whispered as he moved to lie back on his elbows, stretching out his legs. That smart mouth will get him spanked again. But maybe next time. He lay before Faolan, a ready and willing banquet. Everything he wanted in a submissive. His to do with as he wished but someone who needed him. A person Faolan could take care of who still had enough fire to be a challenge. The perfect male specimen, or at least perfect for him. Faolan crawled up Garrick’s body and held himself over his erection, teasing them both. Slowly he eased down to impale himself, his ass stretched just shy of the point of pain. He felt the lack of lube but relished the hot scrape of flesh against flesh. So full. Finally connected. Faolan didn’t say a word. He set a smooth rhythm that took Garrick deep. He gasped and writhed beneath him. Garrick wouldn’t last long. But then Faolan wouldn’t either. He felt Garrick spill into him moments before his own muscles began to spasm in release, his cum splashing across Garrick’s chest. He collapsed against Garrick, mindless of the mess in his need to absorb Garrick’s warmth. “My master. My mate,” Garrick whispered in his hair as he clutched Faolan’s body to his own. The End

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About the Author It’s always the quiet ones… Mild-mannered Jenna Castille lives a rather normal life with her husband and daughter in Las Vegas. Only her husband and closest friends know about the twists and turns her imagination takes. She’s loved fantasy and horror stories since childhood. Then she discovered romance and Romantica. As a writer, she never could figure out which genre she liked better, so she decided to throw them all in a pot to see what came out. Her husband still shakes his head every time she describes one of her plots, but he’s always more than willing to help with any “hands on” research she might require. And her friends love to read her stories. They tell her that at least now they understand the glassy stares and all the mumbling to herself. Happily, they don’t have to worry about her anymore. Being a writer is much better than being committed. Jenna welcomes comments from readers. You can find her website and email address on her author bio page at www.ellorascave.com.

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Also by Jenna Castille Magic of Three Power of Three Spells at Midnight

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