Vampire Vengeance

Three men after one woman—each with their own agenda. When Zoe is taken hostage by her ex-husband and his hired muscle, she discovers the shocking truth about her rock star fiancé. Her struggle to protect the identity of her covert, vigilante biker group encounters severe complications. One man seeks to exploit Night Brigade, while the other offers them immortality. Zoe must convince her female comrades to take the plunge into the dark world of vampirism to ensure their survival. Can she trust one man enough to lead the way?

The unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this copyrighted work is illegal. Criminal copyright infringement, including infringement without monetary gain, is investigated by the FBI and is punishable by up to 5 years in federal prison and a fine of $250,000. Please purchase only authorized electronic editions, and do not participate in or encourage the electronic piracy of copyrighted materials. Your support of the author’s rights is appreciated. This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents either are products of the author‟s imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events or locales or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental. Vampire Vengeance Copyright © 2011 Storm Savage ISBN: 978-1-77111-010-5 Cover art by Martine Jardin All rights reserved. Except for use in any review, the reproduction or utilization of this work in whole or in part in any form by any electronic, mechanical or other means, now known or hereafter invented, is forbidden without the written permission of the publisher. Published by eXtasy Books Look for us online at: www.eXtasybooks.com

Vampire Vengeance Night Angels One

By

Storm Savage

For Austin. My faithful companion who never left my side during those endless nights of writing, even as the sun rose. Your warm presence will be forever missed. Until we meet again, my friend…I will write and hopefully feel your spirit lighting my way.

Chapter One

Z

oe stared at the words Flaming Steel tattooed onto his upper arm, then slunk into the ratty wooden chair of a rundown cabin. How did everything go so wrong? Secretly she wrestled with the nylon ties binding her wrists while contemplating her situation. She‟d heard them talking and it didn‟t look good. Her ex-husband Travis and two accomplices had taken her hostage while seeking ransom from her rock star fiancé. If not for the tall, muscular man silently guarding her, she‟d have made a run for it even with her hands bound to a chair. They had not tied her feet and she assumed their reason in not doing so was to make a quick getaway if necessary. Since they were using fast motorcycles as their method of travel, strapping her feet together would slow them down. She had no doubt that her fiancé had already launched a search and most likely these bullies had the same thought. “Why are you doing this, Travis? You don‟t need the money.” He ignored her. A loud crash ended his silence as she swung her boot up and kicked a lamp off the table. “Damn it, Zoe! You‟re gonna destroy the whole place before we leave!” “It‟s a shit hole anyway!” She caught her bodyguard looking away to hide a grin. The two men had not taken her with ease. During their 1

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attempts to subdue her, she‟d kicked a hole through the television, broken an end table, smashed a small mirror above the headboard of the bed and ripped a towel rack off the wall. It had been quite a fight transferring her from their Harleys to the small cabin. Yet, during the entire skirmish, the man riding with Travis had never said a word. His quiet strength was remotely—intriguing. “You didn‟t answer my question,” she snapped, irritated even more by Travis‟s evasiveness. A severe line of storms had rolled in behind them and they had driven quite a distance before taking shelter in what she assumed had been a planned destination point. The men had cans of gasoline stocked in the shack along with basic provisions such as drinking water and dried snacks. They had managed to outrun the rain until the last hour of their trip. The small fire Travis built in a brick fireplace helped fend off the chill of her wet clothes that had become soaked by the torrential downpour they‟d encountered on the road. Wriggling against the chair, she managed to scoot it across the floor, then brought both feet up in an attempt to deliver a blow to the back of Travis‟s knees as he kept watch out the small window. He seemed anxious—distracted—his focus remained fixed on the outdoors. Just before her boots made contact with Travis, a strong hand shot out to block her strike. With fast reflex, Travis‟s sidekick wrapped one long arm around her ankles and swung her around, then slanted a curious look at her. “You‟re a little hellcat, aren‟t ya?” He stared down at her with striking blue eyes—so blue they reminded her of clear skies. “Why don‟t you settle down? This doesn‟t have to be so hard.” “What the hell do you two want from me?” she spat, glaring at him, momentarily stunned by his intense expression. 2

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Travis swung around. Hatred shone in his dark brown eyes. “Payback, Zoe. Your new boyfriend took something that belonged to me, now he‟s going to pay.” “Past tense being the key word there.” Zoe rolled her eyes. “This isn‟t about the money. You had plenty left even after the settlement and you don‟t care that much about losing me. What irks you is losing control over me.” She nodded toward the outwardly timid female accomplice in this insane ploy. “What the hell is she doing here?” Her angry gaze went to the pretty brunette sitting several feet away who had not yet spoken an audible word—only an occasional whisper to Travis. It was bad enough to be humiliated like this, but to have his new lady friend watching felt even worse. Zoe didn‟t care that her ex had taken up with another woman. In fact she was glad. Still, his continued obsession with her was disturbing, especially when he should be getting on with his life. Travis glared at her. “A man has to move on, but pride needs to be salvaged. Mott may have succeeded in taking you from me, but he‟s gonna pay.” He turned back toward the window. “Our divorce was final before I had even one date with Mott. Nobody took me away…you drove me away. It didn‟t take you long to find someone else so why can‟t you let me be happy for once? Why must you be such an asshole? Just let it go! Let me go!” She growled in exasperation, wringing her hands within the twine. “Can‟t,” Travis responded, still peering into the stormy night. “You‟re just pissed because I found someone more successful than you.” She sighed in disgust. “This is a stupid method of revenge.” “Just shut up, Zoe, and let me think,” Travis snapped, then he looked at his abettor. “Booker, keep her under 3

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control while I go pack up the bikes.” Travis grabbed a rain poncho and supplies, then slipped out the door, followed by his female companion. Zoe quit struggling in order to conserve energy and wondered why any man would take orders from Travis. Her ex was anything but a fighter which explained why he‟d duped someone else into serving as his muscle. No, Travis was quite the opposite of brawny, but he was shrewd—a master at manipulation and lies. Clearly this man riding with him could kick ass, by the looks of him. Yet, he seems to be letting Travis call the shots. He must be in it for the money. I’m sure Travis is paying him well. A mystifying aura surrounded him that she couldn‟t identify. Thunder rumbled and frequent flashes of lightning illuminated the dimly lit cabin. She looked up at the appointed watchman. “You‟re name is Booker?” He nodded while lighting a fresh cigarette, then casually leaned against the doorjamb. He looked better than he should in faded, tight-fitting blue jeans and black leather biker boots. Long, sandy-colored hair hung in loose spirals several inches past the crewneck collar of his black, sleeveless t-shirt. She shook her head lightly and blinked to clear her mind. This stranger, who only hours earlier had forced her onto the back of his motorcycle, was still the enemy and she needed to keep her wits. “You shouldn‟t get caught up in this mess. Why go to jail for something Travis has done? Let me go and I swear your name will never be mentioned. My fiancé has powerful friends.” “I have my own vendetta with Mott.” Booker didn‟t look at her, but instead tilted his chin upward to exhale a long, deep drag from his smoke. “You know Mott?” An eerie chill settled over her. This began to feel like more than a foolhardy attempt by Travis to 4

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seek revenge. The word conspiracy came to mind. “You don‟t have a Flaming Steel brand…what gang do you ride with?” “I ride alone.” His eyes met hers in an unsettling way—as if he‟d looked straight through her. “And you ask too many questions.” He half-turned so that she could no longer see his face. Zoe began to sense this Booker fellow knew more about her than he let on. She‟d never heard Travis mention a person by this name. Nor had she seen her ex-husband ride with anyone outside of his biker group, Flaming Steel. How did these two meet? And what dealings does Mott have with this mysterious stranger? She decided not to press and tried to get reasonably comfortable in the small chair. He walked over and threw a couple logs into the fire pit. The wood crackled and popped as a fresh wave of warmth filled the room. Zoe was grateful for that as her clothes were finally beginning to dry. Booker pulled up a chair, flipped it around, then straddled it backward and sat down facing her. “Are you thirsty? Hungry?” “No…just a little cold and damp.” “We‟ll hang out here until the storm eases up. You should be dry by then.” “Where are you taking me?” She tried a softer slant since he seemed a bit more approachable now. “West.” He stood up and walked to the window as if looking for Travis. “We have a long ride ahead of us.” Zoe recalled the road signs during their six-hour ride across Pennsylvania. She‟d assumed that Travis would have stopped at one of his many relatives in Pittsburgh to take cover. He‟d always been close to them and constantly leaned on his family for support. He took her by surprise when they dipped south toward Somerset. The mountain area offered 5

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plenty of secluded campsites so Travis and present company clearly had put some thought into their plan. Zoe wondered where they were headed—most likely to hook up with Flaming Steel for reinforcement. She also realized that even if Mott had contacted police the law wouldn‟t do anything for at least twenty-four hours. So, essentially her current fate rested on Mott‟s ability to track them before they took her into hiding and gathered more allies. I hope you’re getting closer, Mott. Her thoughts drifted back to New York City. Light from a full moon cast shadows on the sidewalk as Zoe made her way toward a cozy restaurant on a cool September evening to meet her fiancé for a late dinner. Since her catering job had been only several blocks away, she‟d decided to walk. The streets were bustling with people in the city that never sleeps. She loved the energized atmosphere. It was refreshing compared to the isolated life she‟d left behind in rural Pennsylvania just over a year ago. Moving to New York City after her divorce had been a wonderful decision. Not only had she reentered the food industry as a talented caterer but she‟d also met many different people from all over—most notably the man meeting her now. He‟d charmed her with his British accent and strong charisma. So after dating for several months, Mott proposed marriage and Zoe accepted. Even though she‟d felt a bit pressured, Mott didn‟t seem like he‟d take no for an answer and she didn‟t want to lose him altogether. They did, however, agree to an engagement of at least six months‟ time, if not more to allow their relationship to mature. Zoe had expressed her desire to take things slow and Mott consented. Taking a deep breath of cool, evening air, she‟d detected a hint of rain above the city smells. The restaurant was just 6

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past the huge building ahead. She had picked up her pace to avoid getting wet in the impending shower she knew would come. Several streetlights above had been broken, making her last stretch of sidewalk dark. Shrugging off an unwelcome chill, Zoe hurried along, excited to meet up with Mott. She had been looking forward to some quality time together. Upon rounding the corner where a massive skyscraper spanned two blocks, Zoe came suddenly face-to-face with Travis. Never had she expected to see him in the heart of the city. He‟d always hated urban life and avoided it whenever possible. She had finally begun to feel confident that he‟d quit stalking her. “Hello, Zoe,” Travis had said in an oddly casual manner. “How have you been?” The sheer shock of his presence rendered her speechless— and that was the angle they must have banked on. Because those few moments that she stood there in stunned silence were all it took for Booker to come from behind. Every attempt to break free failed—from kicking his shin with her boot to slamming her head back into his face—the man had superior strength. Even her bite to his hand clamped over her mouth hadn‟t made him flinch. “You didn‟t tell me she could fight,” Booker had said to Travis. “I didn‟t know she could,” he had muttered in response. Her ex had never known of her secret life with another biker group—the key to her newfound independence—an elite band of women riders that Zoe had pulled together a couple years before her divorce. Her idea to form Night Brigade had been the best thing she‟d done thus far. She‟d fought with all her might while Booker wrestled to secure her to him straddled on his road bike. He had quickly bound her wrists around his waist. Once he‟d begun revving 7

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that engine, it had been pointless for her to scream and she didn‟t waste energy trying, so he‟d removed the bandana fixed over her mouth. There had been no recourse except to hang on for the ride of her life. In that fleeting blackness—where for only a few minutes no people had been close by—Zoe lost the fight. The cabin door winging open jarred her from deep thought. Travis and the brunette hurried inside, dripping wet. She watched as they removed their rain gear, then meandered off to a far corner with Booker. The ponchos would have been nice before getting caught in the rain. She sighed. They had been clever to take her at night and to a remote hideout, hence, avoiding witnesses or a chance of anyone hearing her screams for help. She‟d chosen not to cry out, therefore saving her breath and her pride. Still, Zoe‟s training as a soldier with her covert vigilante group had given her captors more than they anticipated when snatching her off the street in New York City—even though she‟d ultimately been overpowered. She gathered that they hadn‟t expected this much resistance. Booker‟s combat tactics seemed advanced beyond the average man, making her wonder where he‟d learned his moves. Her efforts to break free had failed. She‟d have to wait for a chance to catch him off guard before making an attempt to escape. If not for Night Brigade, her organization dedicated to justice, Zoe may never have gained the courage to divorce Travis. His family had money and easy access to powerful attorneys. She‟d feared the repercussions of initiating the end of her lengthy marriage due to their obsessively controlling and vicious nature. However, her adopted sisters had pooled their resources and hired a sharp lawyer, as well 8

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as offered their assistance should any of her in-laws then soon to be ex-laws given her any trouble. Thinking about it now, she could understand why Travis felt bitter. After all, she‟d won—beat him on his turf at his game and walked away with a nice settlement. Even so, this was an extreme measure of revenge and she prayed for a break soon—just a small window of opportunity to find her cell phone or any means of calling for help. His behavior is simply ludicrous! She wanted to scream at him, but fought back the urge to tell Travis that he‟d pay for all of this—that she had powerful friends now and he‟d have more than Mott to deal with if she ever broke free. However, self-control had been part of her training. She held her tongue. Zoe would never betray her comrades. Silence provided a great advantage when employed properly. Booker appeared at her side with a heavy plastic poncho. “Time to ride. I have some rain gear for you.” “An afterthought, don‟t ya think?” She flashed him a hot look. “Just snuggle close to me then, babe,” he said with a wink. “I‟ll shield you from the weather.” Is he mocking me or flirting with me? She couldn‟t tell. Regardless, his sexy wink stirred her inside more than she cared to admit. They stared at each other in what felt like a battle of wills. This was the first she‟d actually taken a good look at his face. Unforeseen to her was that she found him ruggedly handsome. He didn‟t have Mott‟s finesse or immaculately groomed appearance. Yet, a unique charisma emanated from him—similar to the Harley he rode. Raw. Powerful. Untamed. She felt disconcerted over the effect he had on her. I must be having some kind of premature stress syndrome. “Do you want the poncho or not?” 9

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“Of course.” Zoe summoned her thoughts under control. “Don‟t get your hopes up of any snuggling with me.” Booker leaned forward to slide the thick plastic garment over her head. She closed her eyes to ignore his touch, keeping in mind that despite the unexpected physical attraction, he was her enemy. His large hands were gentle now as they adjusted the poncho around her—a vast contrast to the previous contact when he‟d used a firm grip to subdue her. Her wrists burned from the nylon and she winced from the pain. She had been working them furiously to no avail and even the slightest movement now felt like tiny knives slicing her skin. “Look,” he said in a quiet voice while squatting in front of her. “I can see you‟re in pain. It was never my intent to harm you. If you‟d simply quit fighting I could untie your hands. You don‟t know where you are, so don‟t you think it‟d be a bit crazy to try running off?” “Maybe I am crazy.” She considered bringing her boot up for a hard kick to his groin, but decided an impulsive act such as that would do no more than simply piss him off. He studied her for a moment, then said, “No…you‟re not crazy…but you do know how to fight. I was told you were a docile housewife…an easy catch. But you have moves that indicate more. Where‟d you learn how to fight?” “I watch a lot of movies,” she quipped. “Just sit still for a few minutes.” A slight grin tugged the corners of his full lips before he walked away to join Travis across the room. Zoe sighed and looked down to rest her eyes, letting her thoughts drift. She squirmed slightly against the hard wooden back of the chair while staring down at the floor, immersed in thought. Should I back down a little so he’ll untie me? He was right. Running off would be a crazy thing to do. Deep in the 10

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woods of Somerset beneath dark skies left few options. Taking into account the road trip and how long they‟d been hiding out, she calculated the time to be very early morning. Booker had shaken her confidence, but not dampened her spirit. Though she felt disappointed over failing to outmaneuver him, she‟d not give up. They had used underhanded shock tactics to catch her off guard, hence, giving Booker an edge—for now. “So…” he said, suddenly before her without a sound of his approach. Her head jerked up to face him. “Have you decided how you‟ll travel this time? Tied or not?” “I‟d be a fool to pass up your offer.” He almost smiled. “Are you going to behave?” “I‟ll try.” She met his gaze straight on. “If I behave, will you tell me what you have against my fiancé?” “Maybe.” He reached around her instead of walking behind the chair to untie the nylon rope. His bare arms brushed hers as he tugged at the knot and his hair wisped her cheek when he leaned inward. He was close enough now that she caught a slight hint of cologne. Or at least she thought it was cologne. Maybe it’s just deodorant…or could he actually smell this good naturally? Her senses began to reel. There was something extraordinarily sensual about this man that made her feel confused. No way can I be attracted to him when I am engaged to a gorgeous rock star…this is crazy. She closed her eyes to focus—to block out whatever supernatural persuasion this man possessed. For a moment she felt his slow act of freeing her hands was a deliberate intent to touch her in a kind manner. But she quickly dismissed such a silly notion. “Okay…” He leaned back, then stared into her eyes. “Let‟s see if you keep your word. I‟m going over there to wrap up final details with your ex. Stay put.”

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**** “You‟re making a huge mistake,” Travis said in a low voice to Booker as they stood on the opposite side of the cabin from where Zoe sat. “First chance she gets, she‟ll make a break for it. You saw how she fought us earlier.” Booker shook his head. “Look, man. I‟m not into roughing up women or causing them pain. I can feel her uncertainty. She seems to be a pretty sharp lady so I doubt she‟ll run off into the woods when she has no idea how to get out.” Travis simply stared, slack-jawed. “You‟re falling for her.” He ran a hand through his short hair in open shock. “Don‟t let those sultry blue eyes of hers fool you. She can‟t be trusted.” “You hired me to guard her and I am doing just that.” Booker lit a fresh smoke. “Takes more than a pretty face to fool me. I see the fire in her eyes. I won‟t let her get away.” A thin ribbon of smoke drifted upward as he exhaled. “Are the bikes ready?” “Yeah.” Travis cast a watchful glance at Zoe, then resumed gathering last minute supplies. “I‟ll meet you outside.” Booker watched Travis sling a backpack over his shoulder, then take his girlfriend, Laura, by the hand. They exited the cabin. He double-checked his riding gear, then poured water from a jug over the fire until even the coals had been cooled. All the while keeping watch on the woman across the room from the corner of his eye. Zoe appeared subdued but not defeated. So far she had kept her word and not moved. He studied her from a distance while she seemed preoccupied with her thoughts. She was indeed beautiful and a wild thing. He hadn‟t missed the sweet smell of her long, golden hair while untying her hands, or the softness of her skin when their arms made 12

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contact. Her body looked pretty hot, too. When the rain had soaked her skin-tight black jeans and clingy pink tank top, he‟d stolen more than one glimpse at her voluptuous figure. Curvy in all the right places with full, round breasts. The shirt had become almost see-through from the rain, and had revealed nice nipples pressing against a skimpy bra. Nothing like a woman in wet clothes with a light chill, he mused. Her long legs were shapely and she did look sexy in those high-heeled boots. No, I don’t think she’d fare to well running through the woods dressed like that. Booker had never intended on turning this fiery vixen over to Mott—no he sought only to take her away from the prick. Though Travis had promised him a huge sum of money once they finished the job, Booker didn‟t care about the money. His issues with Mott ran much deeper than any amount of cash could mend. Typically known as the lone rider, Booker hadn‟t fancied taking on a permanent passenger—until now. But can I seduce her into my dark world of her own free will? Or has Mott’s fame and fortune already won her over? Moreover, what will Zoe do when she discovers the truth about her outwardly well-adjusted fiancé? Surely she’ll want out. He forced his perplexity to the back of his mind. For now he‟d stick to the plan. He‟d enjoy watching Mott hand over a chunk of his money to the group in exchange for a woman he would never have again. Even if Zoe rejected Booker, at least she‟d be free of Mott once his crimes were exposed. They had a long ride ahead of them to join forces with Flaming Steel. He had many friends in the biker group, but had never joined their ranks. As he‟d told Zoe, he preferred to ride alone. “C‟mon, doll.” He walked over to Zoe, who had been waiting patiently. He liked that she didn‟t complain. “Let‟s get going.” She stared up at him with a pleading expression that 13

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made him ache to touch her. Every moment alone with this woman became increasingly tormenting. He wondered if she sensed his desire as he‟d picked up on hers. The approving once over she‟d discreetly given during their first moment alone hadn‟t gone undetected. Nor did he miss her faint shiver when he leaned close to untie her hands. And the look in her eyes—alluring eyes the color of deep blue waters—each time their gaze met she stirred him to life inside. “Don‟t worry,” he said. “I won‟t let anyone hurt you.” He felt the anxiety in her soul. She offered him a slight smile as he placed one hand at the small of her back. Booker locked the door behind them as they walked out to join the others. Only a light mist floated in the air and the clouds had begun to dissipate. Moonlight splintered through the treetops and glinted off the chrome of his Harley Softail. Travis seemed nervous, but Booker had no qualms about dealing with Mott. In fact, he relished the idea of meeting up with his old nemesis once again. The long road trip would allow plenty of time for mulling over the best way to deliver retribution to Mr. Rock Star. **** “Ya know,” Booker said, while helping Zoe mount his bike. “You took to riding like a pro. Usually someone who hasn‟t ridden a motorcycle before needs a little coaching on how to shift their weight back there.” “Oh…” was all Zoe said to that. “We rode fast and hard through that rain and you really hung in there,” he continued. “If I didn‟t know better, I‟d think you‟ve ridden before.” He straddled the leather seat to her front. 14

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“I used to ride horses—must be a balance thing.” The one good thing about this ordeal was riding. She‟d missed the cross-country road trips with her pack while living in New York. Though Mott rode for recreation, his schedule didn‟t allow much in the way of all-day biking on the open roads. Something inside had caused her to withhold from Mott, that she could handle her own bike and rode with a group. She knew he‟d have a barrage of questions on when and where she took up the sport, and she didn‟t know how to field an intense inquiry. So for now, Mott knew of her passion for riding but nothing more. The sound of engines growling broke the early morning calm. Booker hadn‟t forced her to be bound at the wrists again so she gripped each side of the leather seat and leaned against the backrest. After winding through the dense woods on a narrow road for quite a distance, they rumbled onto an open highway. The very first trace of dawn touched the far horizon behind them, indicating they were heading west as Booker said. Ahead the sky still looked dark— almost ominous—and Zoe felt they would again encounter stormy weather. Nature didn‟t wait long to prove her right. Within an hour rain began pelting them as the heavy clouds overhead unleashed their fury. Travis and Booker slowed their pace yet continued to push forward, leading Zoe to believe they had a time line in mind for their journey. None of them wore helmets which wasn‟t unusual. Many riders chose not to wear the headgear. Zoe had often gone out with her group wearing only a fabric head wrap to hold her hair in place. Nothing compared to the feeling of freedom while flying down an open road with the wind whipping at your face and hair. However, today a helmet would be a welcome shield against the stinging rain. Time seemed to drag as the foursome continued on. 15

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Zoe glanced over at Travis and his companion, whose name she still did not know. The woman had her face tucked into his back and appeared more comfortable than Zoe felt. She didn‟t relish the thought of snuggling close to Booker, not for the sake of appearance but more to preserve her dignity. However, if she wanted to survive this trip with enough energy to make an escape, some pride had to be sacrificed. With a reluctant sigh, Zoe slid her arms around his waist and rested her face against the leather of his jacket to use him as a shield against the weather. He smelled good even in the rain. Leather and whatever else he wore on his body created a pleasing scent that lulled her into a rather heady state. She actually began to feel strangely at ease. His aura had an almost enchanting effect. Odd feelings to be having now. Why would I feel the slightest bit relieved to be heading away from home—away from Mott? These conflicting thoughts confused her. She shrugged them off for the time. Her eyes felt heavy and for the first time since leaving New York, her nervous tension had subsided. Rolling down the interstate on a powerful Harley using Booker to block the rain, she allowed herself to relax. She had no idea what would happen next, so this may be her only chance to rejuvenate.

“How ya holdin‟ up?” Booker asked her at their first rest stop. “I‟m okay.” Zoe peeled herself off the seat and for the first time, got a good view of the machine she‟d been riding. A Heritage Softail. She tried to hide her enthusiasm. His bike was impressive to say the least. Gleaming black metal with abundant chrome and fringed handle grips. Black leather saddlebags on each side of the black leather two-passenger seat. Wow. She inwardly gasped in awe. This model had 16

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always been her dream bike. Never did she think it would hold her prisoner. Still, there was a peculiar sensation of freedom riding with him—on this motorcycle—she couldn‟t for the life of her explain why. He eyed her with open curiosity. “You hold up better than any other woman I‟ve ridden with.” “Hm…and I suppose you‟ve had many ladies on this fine machine.” She couldn‟t stop herself from running one hand over the bike, even in the weakening rain. “So, you like motorcycles?” He didn‟t acknowledge the comment about many ladies. “Hm? Oh-uh-well…I can appreciate the finer things in life even in the most dire circumstances.” She looked away to hide her emotions. With a light laugh, he nodded toward the café. “C‟mon then, let‟s get some food, you must be starved.” They walked into a small diner followed by Travis and company, then took a booth against a wall in the back, facing the door. Zoe had no clue as to the time of day with the sky still thick with clouds. “How long were we on the road?” she asked. Travis looked up from his menu, seemingly shocked at her civil tone of voice. “About six hours,” he said. “You seem much calmer now.” “Tired.” Zoe sighed, then turned her attention to the menu. From Travis‟s reply, she assumed the time to be somewhere around noon. “After we eat we‟ll be on the road for another six unless anyone needs to make a pit-stop,” Booker said. “Don‟t you think it‟s rude not to introduce your…friend?” Zoe finally asked. “We‟ve been together for over twelve hours and I still don‟t know her name.” “You weren‟t exactly in a cordial mood back at the cabin,” Travis said with a smirk. 17

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“Fuck you, Travis! I think considering what you are putting me through I am being quite civil at the moment.” She kicked his shin beneath the table. “Ow! Damn you, Zoe.” He reached over and clutched her wrist. “If you ever—” Booker shot Travis a warning look. “Hey, man, ease up. She has been more cooperative now.” Instantly Travis slunk back. “Zoe…meet Laura, my girlfriend.” Travis wrinkled his brow in open frustration. Clearly he didn‟t appreciate losing the upper hand. Laura offered a weak smile and nodded. Zoe returned the gesture. “What‟s wrong Trav? Feeling in over your head?” Zoe taunted. He opened his mouth to speak, but the server appeared at their table. “Are y‟all ready to order?” We must be somewhere around the southwestern Ohio border, Zoe surmised by the girl‟s mild southern accent. She knew Kentucky residents often made their way up to Ohio for work and the last sign she‟d been able to read was Welcome to Ohio. They placed their orders and waited in silence for the food. Travis obviously decided he didn‟t have a fitting rebuttal to her jibe. Her entire predicament felt surreal. Here she sat with her ex-husband, his girlfriend, and a man—a stranger she‟d just met hours ago—about to scarf down dinner with them. A weaker person may have declined to eat, but Zoe‟s growling stomach refused to be denied. When her plate of fried chicken, smashed redskins and buttered corn arrived, she dove in with zeal. One thing she‟d learned riding with Night Brigade—when it‟s time to eat, don‟t waste a thing because you never know when the next meal will come. “You have a healthy appetite for a woman with such a 18

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nice figure.” Booker‟s words froze in the air as everyone at the table suddenly quit eating and looked up. “Well…I‟d have to be blind not to notice in those soaking wet clothes.” Nobody responded. They simply stared at him for a few moments. Nothing like coming straight out with his inner thoughts, Zoe mused. “Uh…thank you…I think,” she finally said to relieve the awkwardness. They finished their meal without further conversation. On their way out the door, Zoe saw Travis elbow Booker in the side with a disapproving look. She gathered her ex frowned upon Booker treating her kindly. The next leg of their trip went a bit easier with better weather and smooth roads. Zoe noticed that Travis seemed less tense and figured the more distance they put between them and New York the better he‟d feel. Yet, she couldn‟t help but wonder where Mott was and if he was closing in on them. Has he been able to find any leads to my whereabouts? Less than twenty-four hours ago she‟d been on her way to meet him for dinner. Storm clouds had given way to a little sunshine even though the sun had begun its early stage of decent into the western skies. In a few hours Mott could insist that law enforcement get involved in her rescue if he felt the need. Zoe had considered making a call for help at the diner payphone, but Booker had kept her well-guarded, not giving her a single opening to try anything. She had to admit, he did his job well. There had not been one opportunity for her to seek out a cell phone or other method of getting word to someone for help. The guys appeared to have another overnight pit stop in mind because they veered off the interstate onto back roads as evening approached. By nightfall, she found herself deep in the woods again with no idea of where they had taken her. They had crossed into 19

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Illinois, but she‟d lost track of time therefore could not discern how far into the state they‟d come. “Are you going to tie me up again?” she asked Booker as she slid off the bike, rubbing her now sore butt and legs. “That depends on you.” He gathered supplies from the saddlebags, then gave her a quizzical smile. “Are you going to behave?” “I‟ve been doing well so far, haven‟t I?” “Very.” He waited for her to walk ahead of him before moving toward the cabin. Once settled in with a healthy blaze burning in the fireplace, the guys readied two cots on separate sides of the large room. This dwelling looked better kept than the first, leading her to believe that this cabin may be used more often by the bikers. She didn‟t thrash around or destroy anything this time. Far from home and slightly disoriented, at the moment her only consolation was that Booker had softened toward her, thus making the ordeal more bearable. Perhaps if she continued her good behavior he‟d slip up and she‟d get away. Travis kept his distance, much to her relief. She had no desire to argue with him or even hear his voice. His motivation was clear—money. Most likely he sought to gain what he‟d lost in the divorce and this insane ploy had been his only chance. He and his family had always made money their god, another reason why their marriage failed. Oh well. Zoe sighed. Once Mott catches up with him, I will never have to deal with Travis again. And if for some reason Mott fails, I am sure my sisters will teach Travis a lesson he’ll not soon forget. Then the bastard will never mess with me again once he sees who I ride with. Her thoughts began to race. Taking a deep breath, she sat on a chair beside the fire and closed her eyes to clear her mind. “Do you need anything…food or drink?” Booker 20

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appeared at her side, again without making a sound. She jumped, slightly startled by his silent approach. “No…I‟m exhausted.” “C‟mon then,” he coaxed, taking her hand. “You‟re safe here. I‟ll sleep on my bedroll beside your cot.” It didn‟t occur to her to pull away or resist his invitation for rest. Something about him felt uncannily safe and for some inexplicable reason, she believed that he would protect her. The makeshift bed looked more inviting than she expected as he sat her on the edge. A soft blanket covered the thin mattress and a tiny pillow. The interior room had taken on a warm glow. She longed to remove her still damp clothes and lay them by the fire, then crawl into bed and sleep. But her traveling companions didn‟t invoke a level of comfort that enabled her to do so openly. Regardless, she was sick of the soggy feeling so when she slid beneath the blanket, off came the jeans and shirt. “I don‟t suppose you‟d lay these by the fire for me.” She prayed Booker wouldn‟t force her to walk through the cabin in her under garments. A surprised look swept across his face. “I could say no.” He flashed a mischievous smile and she noticed he had very nice, straight teeth. “Yes…you could,” she began timidly. “Then I‟d be forced to let my ex have another look at me.” “You have kept your word and cooperated. I‟ll take care of your wet clothes.” He draped them over a wooden chair, then slid the chair nearer the fire. Tucked under the blanket, Zoe rolled onto her side facing him as he lay not even a foot below on the floor, stretched out on a sleeping bag. “So will you tell me what you have against my fiancé? Surely you realize that in only a few hours he can get law officials involved in my rescue. This charade will soon end.” 21

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Booker sighed, then folded his hands behind his head. Zoe glanced over at Travis who had nestled into his cot with Laura. Unusual calm filled the room. She soaked it into her soul. “You don‟t forget anything, do ya?” Booker looked up with a wry grin. “Not much…no.” “Sure you want to know your boyfriend‟s dirty deeds?” “They can‟t be worse than this.” She rested her head on a bent arm while staring intently at him. “You just might be surprised.” Booker kept his voice low. “Mott and I go back a long way. That rock band he is lead singer of used to be mine.” “What?” Zoe couldn‟t believe it. She never pegged this mysterious man as a potential rock star. “Yeah. We met in a bar and decided to form a band. It was supposed to be equal partnership with both of us writing songs and having even input. Most of the band members had been friends of mine. Mott got power hungry and started doing projects on the side, then began having private meetings with the others to review his songs.” He pulled a cigarette from a pack and tapped it on his palm. “They‟d work up a piece without me, give it to the producer and had it approved for the record before I ever saw it. I started getting wise when my songs got passed over so I called Mack to see what the deal was. He thought I knew about the songs Mott was writing.” “Who is Mack?” “The producer,” Booker replied. He sounded bitter. “Oh…yeah I do recall seeing that name somewhere. So you left the band?” “Not right away. But when my rejected works started showing up on the records with Mott‟s name on them, I had enough. I wasn‟t much into lawsuits and shit like that so I 22

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just left. They never did find a guitarist to replace me.” Zoe studied his facial expression, his eyes, and every movement to discern his sincerity. “Wow…” “Yeah…” Booker shook his head. “Nice guy, huh?” “So you‟re going after him for money, too? Taking back what he owes you? This does not make you any better than he if what you say is the truth.” “Mott needs to pay. His glory days are coming to an end.” Booker lit a smoke and stared up at the ceiling. “Sure, Travis is giving me a cut for my time, but when word spread that someone was looking to deliver Mott some payback, I had to take the job.” “How do you know Travis?” She felt confused and wondered why Booker felt compelled to seek out revenge at her expense. “He rides with Flaming Steel. I‟ve known them for years but never joined their crew. Travis put out feelers and one of my buddies tipped me off. He knew I‟d like to see Mott pay. I‟ve only known your ex for the couple months it took us to put this plan together.” “So that‟s all then?” Zoe furrowed her brow. “You just want to see Mott pay?” Booker looked up at her, his expression suddenly serious. The way he stared into her soul made her quiver inside. “Not just pay…I want him to suffer.” His voice carried a deep threat—too grave for an old vendetta over a band. “I sense you aren‟t telling me everything,” she said. “What is it? What did Mott do that made you carry this anger around all these years?” He raised his upper body to rest on one bent elbow, then leaned in close. He cupped her chin with his free hand, cigarette still smoldering in the other near the floor. “Do you really want to know, Zoe, what your fiancé really did? Are you sure you can handle it?” 23

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“You‟re scaring me.” She wanted to back away, but his intense eyes held her captive. “You should be scared,” he said in a low growl. “But not of me.” “Stop messing with me…just say what you have to say.” “The man you intend to marry is more than a pompous rock star,” Booker began, his eyes locked on hers. “He‟s a fucking drug dealer and killed the only woman I had ever loved.” Her breath caught in her chest. His words echoed in her head. Mott, a drug dealer? A murderer? No! This cannot be! Surely this man seeks to undermine my fiancé to carry out this crazy vendetta! Her thoughts raced and pulse quickened. “You‟re lying.” “Then you‟re a stupid bitch to ignore my warning.” His words hit her hard. In a reflex reaction, she belted him across the face with a closed fist. “Fuck you.” His hand snapped up and grabbed hers as he moved his jaw back and forth to fend off the pain. “I‟m fed up playing games with you, woman.” Before she could object, his mouth covered hers as his hand moved to the back of her head. He kissed her hard— yet much softer than his words and with such passion that she was stunned into submission. She should have bit his tongue, his lip, anything! But she didn‟t. Instead she permitted him to kiss her, even when he slipped his tongue into her mouth. But she didn‟t kiss him back. When he ended the kiss, she felt less like a soldier and more like a woman. Damn him! Damn him for breaking through my defense! Her eyes welled with tears, but she choked them back. “Why? Why did you do that?” He spoke almost affectionately. “I‟ve wanted to kiss you since the first time I saw you. But now I intend to take from 24

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Mott what he stole from me.” “You‟re going to use me as part of your revenge?” She wanted to bolt from the cabin at that very moment. Booker shook his head. “I‟d never use a woman. When I agreed to this stunt it was strictly payback.” He slid his hand along her cheek. “That was before I met you.” “Don‟t play me.” “You‟re going to be mine, woman…and of your own free will,” he said with a raw determination that sent chills over her skin. His declaration stunned her in a peculiarly thrilling manner. “I must know.” She bit her lower lip, struggling to control the emotions seeking to take her over. “How do you think Mott killed your…the woman you loved?” A distant look filled his eyes. “We met her at the same time. And of course Mott moved in on her first. They dated for a few months and even got engaged. Jade knew I loved her. Eventually she couldn‟t deny she felt the same about me and she broke it off with Mott. During her apology to me, she‟d said Mott didn‟t take no for an answer regarding their engagement. Two days after I asked her to be my wife, someone found her in the studio unconscious. She‟d gone over to retrieve some belongings from Mott‟s. The studio was in his mansion.” “Did the police investigate?” “Yeah. It made all the papers in LA, but the coroner said she overdosed on heroine. Jade had never used drugs…not with Mott and never with me. I know he did it and the fucker got away with murder.” Zoe was speechless. She hadn‟t known about Jade or of Mott‟s engagement to her. He claimed to be recently divorced. Now she wondered if anything Mott had said was the truth. Booker couldn‟t get away with a lie this big and 25

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Mott not taking no for an answer sounded all too familiar. Surely newspaper history or even an Internet search would pull up the details. Why hadn’t Mott mentioned Jade when we’d shared our past with each other? The only answer pounding in her brain was impossible to ignore. As a soldier with a group that went after men such as this, she knew deep in her heart that Mott‟s omission of a relationship riddled with problems spelled out one thing—guilt. “I‟m sorry for your loss,” she finally said. “Thanks.” He laid back on his bedroll, then snuffed out the spent cigarette in a nearby ashtray. “Maybe you‟re not so anxious to escape now. Perhaps you are safer riding with me. I can protect you.” “I have ties other than Mott. I don‟t need your protection.” “Ah, I‟m not the only one with a secret then,” he looked up at her with a wink. “What makes you think I have one?” “I‟ve learned to read people well.” Zoe turned away for fear he‟d see the truth in her eyes. “I will deal with Mott in my own way.” “Where‟d you learn to ride?” “Huh?” She rolled back over to face him. “C‟mon, sugar. I can spot a biker chick anywhere. I saw the glint in your pretty eyes while you practically drooled over my Softail and you ride behind me like a pro. Does your ex know about your love for bikes?” “No!” she said in a firm whisper. Booker raised a questioning brow. “Why would you hide it from him when he belongs to a huge group? You could have ridden with him.” She saw his eyes searching hers for answers. At a loss for words and unwilling to divulge anything concerning her past, Zoe offered him nothing more than a shrug. 26

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“Keep in mind that you are still the enemy,” she said. “You may not belong to Flaming Steel, but you‟re friends with them and are also helping Travis hold me hostage.” “Do you even know who the enemy is?” He sat up, then framed her face between his hands, leaning over her. “I told you I ride alone. I wasn‟t about to turn down a shot at Mott. When I heard he had another innocent woman in his lair, I had to help.” He paused with a contemplative stare as if unsure he wanted to say more, then to her surprise, he continued. “So there you have it. I was never in this for the money. My plan was to get in, get you out and ride away. I never expected to—” He stopped short. She saw the confliction in his eyes. “To what?” She pressed, almost afraid of what he‟d say yet somewhere deep inside hoped he would. “Fall for you.” He didn‟t flinch but met her gaze straight on. “I don‟t know the deal between you and Travis, but I do know that you are safer with me than with your fiancé.” His confession astounded her. She laid there looking up at him—momentarily speechless. Finally Zoe spoke in a soft yet resolute voice. “You have no idea the hell Travis put me through during our twenty some years of marriage. He is the reason I hooked up with— ” She clamped her lips together, utterly frustrated by this man for almost causing her to slip. “Hooked up with whom, babe? You ride with someone else, don‟t you?” He stared down at her with sparkling eyes that made her burn for another kiss from those sensual lips. She cursed him under her breath. “I ride alone.” She smirked. “But right now my bike is in storage. I haven‟t had time to bring it up to New York yet.” She half-lied. Truthfully her bike was in storage at a Night Brigade location but she didn‟t ride alone. The group had set 27

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up several chapters across the country to better carry out their tasks. One phone call would launch a massive manhunt for everyone involved with this scheme against her. “If you are still my enemy when this is over…you may need my protection.” “You have a great sense of humor.” He laughed. With that, Zoe closed her eyes. “I‟m exhausted. Please let me sleep.” **** Booker laid on his side, propped on one elbow, watching her sleep. The bits and pieces she had revealed made her even more intriguing. He imagined what she‟d look like driving a Harley, flying down the open road beside him with that long, silken hair flying out in the tailwind. A wild thing— he‟d seen it in her eyes the previous night when she fought like hell against him. This female could never be tamed and definitely was too much woman for Mott. He pondered her bitterness toward Travis. Her ex didn‟t seem very tough. What had he done to make her claw her way out of a long union? And the biggest mystery—what biker group did she belong to? One thing he did know—her relationship with Mott was about to end. He had no doubt over her intelligence and believed she‟d leave the prick. He held concern for her safety though, once she broke it off with Mott. She seemed extremely confident in her ability to protect herself. Still, Booker silently vowed to watch her back. No way would he let Mott harm this unique woman. No…Mott isn’t taking this one away…she belongs to me.

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Chapter Two

Z

oe woke before dawn in a cold sweat. Nightmares had made for restless sleep. Rolling onto her side, she noticed Booker‟s bedroll was empty. She looked around and saw him cooking something over the fire. Thoughts of last night‟s conversation with him swirled in her mind. By now Mott may have contacted police to help rescue her. But would she truly be rescued? The knowledge of her fiancé‟s drug dealings and that he‟d had killed an innocent woman was enormously distressing. She considered that maybe Booker was using head games to keep her subdued, yet something in the pit of her stomach believed he‟d not lied. As much as she wanted to believe everything that Booker said was simply another ploy against Mott, her spirit sensed otherwise. If Booker‟s accusations were concrete, Zoe knew what her next course of action must be. She had trained for situations such as these. Her thoughts drifted back to her last meeting with Night Brigade several weeks ago.

Her best friend and partner in forming the outfit, Paige, had driven to New York with other key members—one from each of their seven chapters. Zoe had to break her plans with Mott that day because juggling everyone‟s schedule had 29

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been a challenge in order to meet. Mott had been surprisingly reasonable when she‟d backed out of attending a movie premier with him. She felt bad at the time because his band had performed on the soundtrack and she knew how excited he‟d been. However, she hadn‟t met with her group in months and decided to seize the opportunity. It had been great seeing them. They‟d met in Zoe‟s apartment for dinner and to discuss the option of perhaps electing specifically chosen men to join the ranks. “I don‟t know, Zoe,” said Paige. “If we let one man in, surely others will follow.” “Perhaps. But I feel if we are very careful about who we choose, then adding a few strong men that share our passion could make us stronger,” Zoe had responded. “We have to be realistic. This is still a male dominated world. I feel that the right choices could be very beneficial to us.” “But, Zoe, isn‟t this why we formed the group—to fight male dominance?” “No…my vision for Night Brigade was not to be manhaters but to seek justice in everything. Take my case for example. When I finally became brave enough to divorce Travis, we weren‟t going up against only him but his entire family. And I happen to know that the power in that clan is the matriarchs,” Zoe had said. “And who did you find to represent me in court? A man!” “True,” Paige had nodded in agreement as did the other members present. “In the beginning I did want only women in Night Brigade…strong women with skills. And we have achieved that goal. Now that we are powerful and our numbers have grown beyond my expectations, perhaps we should keep our eyes open for a few good men. There are men out there who don‟t condone injustice—men who like to protect women without controlling them.” 30

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“Are you considering Mott?” “Eh…not really.” Zoe knew that question had been on their minds. “He hasn‟t shown a passion for riding and he‟s too dominant. Sometimes I‟m not sure about Mott and worry I may have been pressured into this engagement. So I have not and do not plan to tell him about Night Brigade. I feel the women in our pack share the same desire—the freedom to ride with a group without the male domination.” “Do you have anyone in mind?” Paige had asked. “No. It‟s just an idea I‟ve been toying with in case we come across that exceptional guy. I wanted to run my thoughts by the group and get your feedback.” “Well, I‟m not adverse to the idea if the right men come along. I‟m not sure how many would want to ride with a female dominated pack.” They had shared a laugh over that. “You know the day is going to come when we‟ll face other biker groups,” Zoe had pointed out. “Having a few strong men in the ranks will make them take us seriously.” “I suppose you make a valid point there. We have to be realistic and above all, ensure our survival. How do you suggest we select these male members?” Zoe had contemplated that issue before presenting her proposal to the group. “In all fairness, I feel each female member be allowed to select one male. However, he must be approved by me, Paige and Hannah in person, and meet our strict protocol. Also, he will have to undergo training by Hannah unless he can prove he is otherwise qualified in combat skills.” “Hannah couldn‟t be here today. She‟s on a run,” Paige had informed. “But I am sure she‟d thoroughly enjoy training a man to fight.” Another round of laughter had ensued as they visualized their martial arts instructor wielding her power over a male 31

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inductee. “So shall we put it to vote? All the chapter leaders are here,” Zoe had suggested. Everyone had nodded in agreement and Zoe‟s proposal had been met with unanimous approval. Travis‟s voice jarred her back to the present. He stood by the fire talking to Booker. She listened closely as their conversation was barely audible. By shifting her position, she was able to focus on their voices as they spoke to one another. “What the hell are you doing, man?” Travis shook his head. “I saw you kiss her last night.” “Stay out of it,” Booker growled. “I agreed to be your muscle so you can get your money back from Mott. Don‟t make the mistake of challenging my actions.” “You have no idea what you‟re getting into with her.” “We are over halfway to Shamrock. Once we hook up with your clan and you get the money from Mott, I‟m gone and taking her with me.” A worried look swept over Travis‟s face. “I have to return her to Mott. I don‟t want him on my ass. I just want my money and I promised a big cut to the group.” Booker faced Travis with narrowed eyes, the muscles in his bare arms tensed. “You started this now you‟re in it. I don‟t give a shit what happens to you once Mott pays up. I‟m taking her into hiding and nobody better fuck with me.” Travis backed down and walked outside, followed by Laura. Zoe saw them standing outside the window, seemingly in argument before they moved out of sight. She feigned sleep to hide that she‟d eavesdropped. “You want some breakfast?” Booker said from the side of her cot. “I didn‟t have much to work with so it‟s just canned stew.” He held out a paper plate with beef stew and a slice 32

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of bread. “Thank you.” She accepted the food and sat up, wrapped in the blanket. “Are you eating? I hate to eat alone.” “I‟m used to it.” He sat on the floor with his plate. “But I will enjoy your company.” They ate in silence. The stew tasted good, but the bread was a bit stale, she ate it anyway. If they were only halfway to their destination, another long day on the road lay ahead. She liked that Booker rode hard and fast, taking only necessary breaks. His plan to take her into hiding didn‟t thrill her. She needed to confront Mott to discern the truth in this matter. No doubt her captors would be moving fast and keeping a low profile today as Mott had probably enlisted police by now to track them down. Zoe wondered what would happen when everything came to a head. Will I be riding back east with Mott or the police? Or will Booker succeed in taking me away? Her future felt dreadfully uncertain. “I take it you won‟t be trying to get away today?” he posed the question. “Or do I need to tie your hands?” Their eyes met for an intense exchange, or perhaps another challenge of wills. Something in his deep expression stirred her every time. Soon she would be a single woman again. But can I see myself with a man like Booker? His bold declaration last night—the unanticipated kiss—never had she met a man so visceral. He carried himself with impressive confidence without a hint of arrogance. Yet, he had helped her ex abduct her. But on the other hand, if everything he said turned out to be true, then Booker had done an incredibly noble deed. He had risked going to prison to save a woman he‟d never met. All the answers she needed depended on Mott‟s response to the allegations she‟d present. “No, you don‟t have to tie me. I need to see this through—confront Mott and get to the truth.” She made a 33

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feeble attempt to smile. “May I have my clothes, please?” “You don‟t have to hide under the covers now,” he said while handing her the jeans and shirt. “It‟s just you and me, babe.” Zoe felt her cheeks grow hot and looked away. He had an uncanny effect on her senses. “Turn around,” she said. Booker sighed in open disappointment, then turned away while she dressed. The warm clothes felt wonderful. “Thank you for drying them for me. You can look now.” “How is it that you are so shy when you‟re engaged to Mr. Rock Star?” “I don‟t know.” She shrugged. “Modest in front of strangers, I guess. Not like most women you know, huh?” He let out a pleasant laugh. “No…most of the women riding with bikers are not modest or shy. You‟ve never been to the rallies, have you?” “Not yet. I‟ve only been riding for a few years and had a lot of loose ends to wrap up after the divorce.” Booker reached out and grabbed her hand. His touch felt firm yet laced with astonishing tenderness. “Zoe…why don‟t you want Travis to know you ride? Why the big secret?” She searched his eyes for a moment, then sighed. “I wanted to do something on my own. I knew if I rode with him and joined his gang that he‟d control me forever.” “Is that why you left him…because he was controlling?” “Now who asks too many questions?” she quipped. Again he laughed and his soft expression charmed her. “I gave you a lot of answers last night. Maybe you can cut me some slack?” “Shouldn‟t we be getting on the road? You guys seemed in a big hurry yesterday.” “Yeah.” He nodded. “We wanted to get a good jump on Mott in case he decided to follow. We‟ll be in Texas by 34

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tonight. I doubt he has any leads.” Booker backed her toward the cot, then sat down with her. “We have a little time while Travis packs the bikes. Gotta make him do something to earn all the help he‟s getting.” “Isn‟t the money enough for them?” “The guys are taking a huge risk getting involved. They could do jail time if things go wrong. They are giving Travis reinforcement and a place to hide out in case Mott tries anything stupid. Travis didn‟t think he could pull it off alone and now I see he was right. You fight like hell.” He reached out and filtered a few strands of her hair through his long fingers. “Where‟d you learn to fight?” “Too many questions,” she replied. “I will answer one…so choose.” A mischievous glint flitted through his eyes. She could see that he enjoyed the challenge. “Fair enough, I‟ll back up a bit. Why did you leave Travis?” “Hm, you get straight to the point.” She took a deep breath. “I had a promising future when I married Travis. I was doing my apprenticeship as a chef and we had agreed I would have a career. But I got pregnant before graduating because my birth control failed. Anyway, complications arose in the pregnancy so I had to take time off.” “So you have a kid?” “No,” Zoe shook her head sadly. “After months of bed rest, I lost the child and never conceived again.” “I‟m sorry,” he said. She looked up at him, surprised by his unforeseen compassion. “Thanks. I didn‟t receive any support from Travis or his family. Quite the opposite in fact, they blamed me for losing the baby, said that I waited too long to quit work. I slipped into a deep depression. About that time, Travis moved us deep into the country, insistent that I 35

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needed rest. I never went back to complete my apprenticeship.” “Why?” “I couldn‟t take the fighting. Travis wanted me home where he could watch my every move and keep trying for kids. I didn‟t want kids after that, especially to him. I wanted my career back. His verbal torment night after night drove me deeper into depression. Every night at dinner, he would start about having another baby. I couldn‟t take any more so I started eating in the other room to avoid the anguish.” She paused reflectively to collect her thoughts. “I grew tired of the fighting anytime I mentioned returning to work, and decided to be content with domestic activities. But that changed when he joined Flaming Steel.” “Did he invite you to ride with him?” Booker seemed genuinely interested, which impressed her. Most men she‟d known enjoyed talking about themselves more than listening. “Oh yeah…he practically demanded I become a member and ride on the back of his motorcycle. But by then I‟d had enough of his manipulation and control. I saw a window to freedom. So when he went riding, I started going out. That‟s how I met—” Zoe stopped short. “Ah…” A knowing smile touched his lips. “I almost got the answer to my other question.” She held back a laugh. He had the most unusual effect on her. “Almost.” Booker didn‟t push for more information, much to her relief. Instead, he sat simply staring into her eyes as if absorbing everything they‟d shared thus far. In an almost supernatural way, she felt his thoughts. A chill trickled up her spine until the hairs on her neck bristled. He leaned toward her, bringing their faces very close and she shivered. Within seconds, she became lost in his gorgeous eyes, 36

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heavily fringed with dark lashes—a striking contrast around the blue irises. Everything around her faded into the distance and for a brief period she experienced an awesome sense of wellbeing. He laid a gentle hand alongside her cheek. “I‟d like to kiss you again.” When she made no move to pull away, his lips found hers, softly at first. Then his arms swept up her back, drawing her tight against his hard chest for a kiss laden with desire. Zoe couldn‟t discern whether her feelings came from attraction to this man or an innate longing for comfort. She‟d heard of cases where the captive developed feelings for her captor, but never dreamed it could happen to her. Either way, at this very moment, his scent, touch and physical presence swept her away into a mystical place. She let her hands get tangled in his long, silky hair while returning his kiss with a fervor that surprised her. No man had ever stirred such deep hunger in her. Their lips melted into the most delicious exchange of affection she could imagine. He explored her mouth with his tongue and she delicately sucked it to the back of her throat, causing him to groan softly. Her body ached for more, but she held back. As if sensing her reservation, Booker slowly eased back far enough to gaze into her eyes. “You kissed me back this time,” he murmured with glassy eyes. Clearly he, too, had been blown away by their startling chemistry. “Yes…I guess I did.” She struggled to regain composure. “What‟s going on with us? There is something uncanny about the way you affect me.” “You carry a deep secret, Zoe. I see it in your sultry eyes…feel it in your spirit. I sense you are protecting something very close to your heart.” “I‟m not the only one.” Her hands were still entwined in 37

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his hair. “There is a mystifying aura surrounding you.” Booker nodded. “You‟re sharp.” His lips brushed hers and his breath feathered her neck before playfully biting down to induce a quivering sigh. “I‟ll tell you about my dark shadows when you let me into your secret world.” His sensual whisper caressed her soul. Without notice, the cabin door opened and in walked Travis with Laura, both looked shocked beyond belief to find her in an intimate embrace with Booker. “Well, Travis,” Laura said. “Looks like your ex-wife has moved on…again.” “She does speak,” Zoe remarked with heavy sarcasm. “And here I thought she was just another one of your puppets.” Laura glared at her, but said nothing in return. “Are the bikes packed?” Booker asked. “Sure took ya long enough.” “Obviously too long,” Travis shot back. “You look pretty tight with our hostage.” “Hey, if you‟re gonna slip out for a quickie with your woman there—don‟t expect me to sit around twiddling my thumbs.” Booker didn‟t seem the slightest bit intimidated. “And you should be glad she‟s warming up to me, makes your mission a hell of a lot easier.” Travis scowled. “I knew you were falling for her.” “I can think of worse things,” Booker countered, then cast Zoe a reassuring wink. “C‟mon, let‟s straighten up here then hit the road.”

Riding behind Booker didn‟t feel so bad today. Her thoughts replayed their kiss over and over as they rolled down the interstate bound for Texas. He had begun to let his guard down. Now she knew which state they would be in 38

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when meeting up with Flaming Steel. This explained the lengthy road trips Travis had taken in the last few years of their marriage. She‟d never been quite sure where he had traveled to all those times, but never really cared. Zoe settled in for the ride, feeling quite comfortable on Booker‟s Harley. She glanced over at their traveling companions. Laura didn‟t appear any more at ease than before, clinging to Travis with anxious eyes while perched on the passenger seat of his Electra Glide. Zoe gathered the woman had not yet taken to life on the road. They took very few breaks, probably because the likelihood of law enforcement on alert existed. She considered them fairly astute to get most of their traveling time in during the first twenty-four hours. When they did stop, the guys parked behind buildings and had chosen remote little dives to refuel and use the facilities. Laura looked worse for wear. Clearly this trek was more than she‟d bargained for. Still, Zoe had to give the woman credit for not whining. A couple hours after sunset, the four of them rumbled into a huge campsite. Motorcycles of many models and styles lined a long row of trees bordering the field. A nervous knot formed in her stomach as they cruised past a massive warehouse that she assumed served as Flaming Steel‟s shelter. The realization of her situation came to life. It had been at times easy to forget that she was a hostage while riding behind Booker. However, now they‟d arrived at their final destination where she would be held captive until Mott paid the ransom or she found a way to escape. Where the hell is my fiancé anyway? She felt disconcerted that these two lone men had been able to bring her halfway across the country with such ease. Surely Mott made some effort to find me. “I don‟t want to go in there,” she whispered to Booker 39

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after he parked his bike. She twisted the end of a long tendril with one hand. “Not so tough now, are ya?” Travis sneered, then brushed past her. He appeared quite full of himself now—having dodged the law and no sign of Mott had surfaced. Booker held back, letting Travis and Laura go on ahead of them. She looked up at his face and saw his keen eyes scanning the compound. He wrapped a shielding arm about her shoulders, then surprised her by kissing the top of her head. “I won‟t let anything happen to you.” Surprisingly, she felt glad that he‟d been the one who offered to help Travis. Another man may have treated her cruelly if only in it for the money. Strangely enough, Zoe was glad Booker had his own agenda with Mott. “I know these guys. Most of them are easy to handle, like your ex. I‟m sure they are only letting him hide out here because he‟s a member. But I will keep you close just to be sure.” He ushered her toward the big, metal building. “As soon as the money is paid, I‟m getting you out of here.” “While I do appreciate your help, I need to face Mott and hear his side of the story.” “How do you plan to get back to New York?” Zoe looked up at him. “I was hoping that once I am no longer a prisoner you‟d return my belongings? I have credit cards and a cell phone, you know.” “Oh…yeah.” Booker let out a frustrated sigh. “Well…let‟s get this over with.” She sensed his reluctance to let her go and felt hesitant about leaving him before getting to know him better. The kiss they shared had been breathtaking and she longed to learn more about this mysteriously intriguing man. Nevertheless, she needed the truth about Mott. If Booker had made up a story to manipulate her, he‟d pay. On the 40

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same scale, if Mott was guilty of those crimes, then Zoe had some decisions to make. Getting away with the murder of an innocent woman deserved punishment and if the law had been duped by Mott‟s celebrity charm, then Night Brigade would step in and serve proper justice. **** Booker didn‟t like the way this was playing out at all. Zoe‟s determination to face Mott on her terms disturbed him. She had not yet grasped that her boyfriend was a coldblooded killer. No doubt Mott‟s rock star status had her fooled into believing he‟d never have reason to commit such a heinous crime. Yet, he did. Booker hadn‟t spent the past few months making plans with some amateur just to let the girl go back to Mott. He glanced down at Zoe who stood significantly shorter than his six-foot-five frame. For a little lovely, she packed one hell of a punch. In spite of a day without bathing, her blonde hair still shone beneath the moonlight. Everything about her impressed him—enthralled him—thrilled him beyond any woman he‟d ever known. She was quite the opposite of his beloved Jade. God rest her soul. No, Zoe was nothing like Jade who had been a willowy brunette fashion model with dark brown eyes. This little fair-haired powerhouse was tougher than she looked and had a deep sense of loyalty to keep silent like she did on whom she rode with. Though he‟d done his best to trip her up, she‟d met his challenge and not given away her secret. He liked that she didn‟t resemble Jade in any way because he‟d not want to worry that his attraction to Zoe had any connection to his past. The only common thread between the two women was Mott—a thread that would soon be severed if Booker got his way. 41

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**** “Hey, Booker, good to see ya, man,” a short, balding man with dark eyes said as he met them at the door. Booker exchanged a firm handshake with the man. “What‟s up, Crawl?” “Camp‟s been all abuzz about this kidnapping run you been on. Is this the bait?” His eyes slid over Zoe, forcing a bitter taste to her mouth. “Where‟s everyone hiding? I didn‟t see the guys out front.” “We‟re all out back tonight. Got a damn good fire in the works, lots of booze and women, c‟mon back and join the party.” Crawl looked at Zoe again. “Leave her inside though. She‟s to be kept safe.” “Maybe later,” Booker said. “Where‟s Travis? We need to take care of business.” “Upstairs with the new boss. He ain‟t been back down yet.” “When did you guys take on a new leader?” Crawl‟s grin revealed some missing teeth. “I dunno. Some dude Travis knows,” he said with a shrug. “Later, Crawl.” Booker placed a hand on the small of Zoe‟s back and guided her toward a stairway. She watched Crawl scurry out a back door before beginning the climb up metal grated steps with Booker behind her. The stench of stale smoke and musk stung her nose as they neared the top. Flaming Steel‟s home base didn‟t seem like much. An old abandoned warehouse left behind by a glass company she assumed by looking around. Rickety wooden pallets, some filled with glassware, were stacked about. Broken down conveyors ran along the lower ceiling with a few more on the floor near some kind of 42

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machine. A couple rusty floor jacks sat in a corner beside tiers of dusty bottles. Catwalks suspended from the ceiling appeared unsafe for use. When they reached the upper level, she was not surprised to see that it was nothing more than empty, dusty space with a few vacant offices and what may have been a break room. They walked past a dirty restroom to a closed door. Travis must be inside. I wonder if he has contacted Mott. Her throat went dry over what might happen next. Will Mott pay or will he play hardball? Nothing like a good old-fashioned abduction to test our love. Booker moved Zoe behind him, then grabbed the handle and swung open the door. He walked in ahead of her, almost protectively. Zoe shot a quick glance around the makeshift office. Travis stood leaning against a wall with Laura sitting in a beat-up wooden chair beside him. Two brawny men dressed in black stood behind a metal desk. She could see a milky block glass window behind them and a man sitting in a high back wooden chair, to a large extent concealed by the two thugs. Zoe presumed he must be their new boss. “Trey…Holt.” Booker nodded a cool greeting toward the two men. “Has anyone made contact with Mott yet?” Travis spoke up. “Seems we have completed our deal, Mott gave up the money a lot easier than we thought he would. Now it‟s time to hand her over.” “She stays with me until Mr. Rock Star makes arrangements for safe transportation. You‟re fucking insane if you think I‟ll turn her over to you deviants.” Booker turned abruptly and grabbed Zoe by the hand. “C‟mon.” “Not so fast,” another voice said in an authoritative tone. Zoe froze. Mixed emotions deluged her. I’d know that English accent anywhere! She and Booker whipped around at the same time. The two tall men shadowing their boss 43

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stepped aside to reveal a well-dressed man with straight blonde hair. “Mott!” Zoe gasped with a hand over her heart.

Silence filled the small room for several, long minutes as everyone absorbed the shock. A swarm of questions flooded her mind. However, one fact remained clear…her fiancé had come to rescue her from this seedy biker group. She pulled away from Booker and met Mott halfway across the room. “Zo-so…” He sighed while wrapping her in a warm embrace. It felt like years since she‟d heard him speak the pet name he‟d given her. She clung to him, taking in the scent of expensive cologne and fresh clothes. “I wasn‟t sure you‟d find me.” She choked back her tears. “How did you find this place? Did you really pay them ransom?” He petted her hair affectionately. “I‟d never let anything happen to you, love.” “How did you find this place?” she reiterated. “Yeah,” Booker added. “How did you?” Mott sat on the edge of the desk, casually dangling one leg over the corner. “When Zoe didn‟t show up for dinner, I had a feeling her ex may have been involved and she‟d mentioned that Travis rode with this pack. You‟re not the only one with contacts.” “Someone in the group tipped you off?” Booker pressed. “You could say that.” Mott let out an arrogant laugh. Booker glared at Travis. “So did you get what you wanted? Are you satisfied now?” Travis just shook his head. “I got a cut.” “A cut…a fucking cut? What happened to the huge ransom you expected?” Booker‟s arms tensed as if ready to strike. “You did all of this only to accept a lousy cut? You‟re 44

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fucking crazy.” “One of the guys sold me out and contacted Mott before we got here…obviously!” Travis shouted, throwing his hands in the air. “The entire group took a payoff in exchange for Zoe‟s safe return to prevent me from getting a larger cut.” “This doesn‟t make sense,” Booker sounded skeptical while glaring at Travis. “What the hell is going on? What the fuck did you get us in to?” Zoe felt an uncomfortable knot form in her stomach. She took a step away from Mott. “Aw, don‟t be like that, Zo-so.” Mott seized her hand. “It‟s not all bad. Look at the bright side. We have a biker group to ride with now. You‟d like that, wouldn‟t you? I recall you speaking of your desire to do road trips when we had time.” She glanced at Travis and saw the stunned expression on his face. However, in the heated moment, he clearly didn‟t have time to sort his thoughts or question her. “What?” She jerked her hand away, staring wide-eyed at Mott. Did I hear him right? “I wasn‟t going to simply hand over money to these guys without something in return. Nobody bullies me.” “What are you saying?” Panic rose in her soul, causing unpleasant tightness in her throat. “What he‟s saying is,” Travis interjected. “He‟s the new leader of Flaming Steel. We haven‟t had one since Cooper died.” She staggered backward. “No! No…this is some kind of cruel joke. How could you agree to join forces with a gang that helped Travis abduct me? Do you have any idea what I‟ve been through the past couple days?” Mott raised a suspicious brow. “From what I heard, you‟ve been treated rather well by your…bodyguard.” 45

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Zoe lunged at Travis, swinging wildly. “You fucking bastard!” She managed to land a couple hard punches to his face before he shoved her away. Trey and Holt grabbed her from behind and held her steady. “I hope you burn! You had no right taking me hostage. Then you go and shoot off your mouth with no concern for anyone but yourself! It‟s always been about you! I should have left you long before I did!” She kicked and struggled to no avail. “See what I told you, boys? My woman is a feisty little thing,” Mott boasted. “Mott…why?” For the first time during this entire ordeal, tears burst forth. She became still, silently cursing the tears streaming down her hot cheeks. Suddenly her world was coming apart. “Why?” He stood up, then casually walked over to her. “You may as well know since you‟re my fiancé. The band hasn‟t been bringing in enough money—” “Big surprise,” Booker interrupted. Mott cleared his throat. “The band has never really brought in enough money to support the lifestyle we like.” He nodded to the two men and they released her. “This warehouse and the organization will be a huge asset to my outside business. When they contacted me and said Travis was bringing you here then issued their demands…well, I had a few demands of my own.” Zoe glared at him in disbelief. “And what business is that, Mott?” An iniquitous grin shadowed his face. He no longer looked the least bit attractive to her. “Er, recreation,” he said with a cocky laugh. “My mates and I supply recreational goods to the community.” Booker was right! My fiancé is nothing but a filthy, lying drug runner! She began edging her way toward the door where Booker stood. The thought crossed her mind that perhaps 46

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Booker was in on this scheme as well. Fear threatened to overtake her, but she fought it back. “Is it true, Mott? Did you kill Jade?” Her bold question clearly took him off guard. For a fleeting moment, a look of panic flickered in his green eyes but he quickly recovered. “Booker, are you still dogging that old story? When will you come up with something new to use against me? Not very creative, old boy…you need a life.” Booker said nothing. He stood tall and silent with an unyielding expression. Mott‟s rebuttal did nothing to convince Zoe otherwise. She‟d been trained to look into the eyes and never had anyone revealed more guilt in one flash of time than he just did. He must‟ve read her conflict because with a designated look, Trey and Holt blocked the door. “What? Now you’re going to hold me captive, too?” she snapped. “Don‟t look at it that way, love.” Mott moved toward her. “I‟m not going to live in this place. You and I can still enjoy a life of luxury back east and take road trips on my bike out here when I need to check on business. It‟s the best of both worlds, my pet.” “You‟re insane!” She gasped in outrage. “Everything is business to you! Even me! So how much did I go for, Mott…a million and some beer? Or was it only a couple grand and a big party. Was I a good bargaining chip for your little merger here? Hell, for all I know, you and Travis may have orchestrated this whole thing to serve both your selfish needs! Maybe this group of idiots fell right into a trap. I know what Travis is capable of…but you…I was so wrong about you.” Zoe caught a trace of suspicion traverse Booker‟s face. Perhaps he had the same thought. 47

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“I don‟t make deals with riff-raff.” Mott smirked. “I do business on my terms. These good old boys were smart enough to take my offer over facing jail time for kidnapping.” Travis seemed on edge. Zoe seriously questioned his account that he‟d been sold out. He was better at manipulation than anyone she‟d known—until now—Mott had just taken the lead. She could easily visualize her ex calling Mott and setting it up to play out just like this. He sure had spent enough time outside during their stops. Maybe he had been slipping out to keep in touch with Mott. After all, Mott had arrived before them and had everything under control which she found overly suspicious. Either way, she‟d had enough and wanted to get away from them. “You‟re both liars!” she ranted. “And if this pack of mangy mongrels is stupid enough to make you their leader and believe all this bullshit, then they are getting what they deserve.” She couldn‟t believe that the two men guarding the door didn‟t question Mott or Travis on the sudden shift in leadership. Maybe they didn‟t care. Possibly Mott had given them enough money to appease any concerns. They didn‟t appear to be very bright. Clearly their top priorities were alcohol and women. “Everyone got what they wanted, so don‟t rock the boat, Zo-so. Settle down so we can relax before returning home.” “I‟m not going anywhere with you,” she shot back, shaking her head in amazement. “What part of this whole charade makes you think I still want anything to do with you?” Mott wrinkled his brow as if perplexed. “You‟re my fiancé.” She tugged at the gold ring on her left hand until it slid off her finger, then whipped it across the room. It made a 48

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tinging sound as it bounced along the floor. “Not anymore I‟m not!” Zoe backed away from him. “You joined forces with a band of thugs who supported my ex after he abducted me, dragged me halfway across the country through all kinds of weather with very little food or rest and expect me to marry you?” She had to pause to catch her breath. “You‟re either delusional or the most arrogant bastard I‟ve ever met. Perhaps you‟ve been taking the drugs you sell!” “Say what you will,” Mott sneered. “As I see it, you‟ve no choice in the matter. I‟m not letting you go.” As if waiting for the ideal moment, Travis walked over to Booker, holding out a wad of cash. “Here‟s your cut. You did a good job keeping her under control all the way out.” “Fuck off!” Booker brought his hand up in a fast, sharp movement to knock the money away. “You know I didn‟t do this for the money, asshole.” A flurry of bills scattered on the floor at her feet. Right then Booker made the leap from captor to hero. He really was telling the truth! Zoe turned toward him. Their eyes met for an instant and in that moment, she saw his rage. His body language gave every indication that he was ready to fight. Taut facial muscles, long arms tensed at his sides with bulging biceps and a poised stance prepared for action. Her past experience with Night Brigade enabled her to read the signs of fight or flight fairly well. This man is waiting to fight! “Don‟t even think about taking off with him!” Mott bellowed, grabbing her by the arm. She believed Booker could handle the two thugs. As tired as she was, Zoe still felt confident enough to take on Mott and Travis. This was what she‟d trained for. These types of men had been what motivated her to form Night Brigade. All she needed to do was let Booker know that she intended 49

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to fight her way out because she sensed he wanted the same. Without another word, she stomped on Mott‟s foot with the heel of her boot while jamming an elbow into his gut. Before he could recover, she slammed her head back against his face, then whipped around to drive her palm upward into his nose. Instantly blood began to flow. She heard a lot of scuffling, but didn‟t look back to see how Booker was faring. She had confidence that he could kick ass—she‟d seen that in him from the start. Travis made an attempt to stop her. She swung around to deliver a sharp kick to his groin, followed by another to his face as he bent forward. Without warning, Mott gripped her throat from behind. Zoe clutched his forearm with both hands, then used all her might to flip him to the floor. She caught a glimpse of Booker, Trey and Holt from the corner of her eye. He had the two men nearly beaten which renewed her strength. A burning desire to destroy her exhusband and ex-fiancé consumed her. However, more urgent was the need to get out of the compound before they became vastly outnumbered. While Mott lay groaning in pain, she struck him again with a sharp kick to his ribs. He rolled over, clutching his side. Travis foolishly attacked again, but was double-teamed as Booker and Zoe each threw a hard punch—one to his face—another to his diaphragm. “Let‟s go.” Booker took her hand. “We aren‟t out of this yet—but we will be soon.” He gave her a wink.

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Chapter Three The

thrill of doing combat side-by-side with him was heady. She felt rejuvenated and ready for more. Amazing energy radiated from him so much so that her body absorbed from his in a most bizarre manner. They slunk alongside the wall to reach the metal stairway, then quickly slipped down the steps and out the door. Fate had smiled on them tonight with the big party taking place outside—and in the back yet. They wasted no time making a dash for the parked bikes. “Do you want me to steal one of these so I don‟t slow us down?” Zoe whispered to Booker when they reached his Harley. He cupped her chin with one hand and looked at her, openly amused. “No, sugar, we‟ll go plenty fast on mine.” Then he smiled and added, “Nothing stirs up trouble like taking a man‟s bike.” Zoe smiled for the first time that day while hopping on behind him. She had no qualms about snuggling in tight now. They needed to make tracks. Therefore leaning in close would improve the dynamics for speed. Very soon, Mott would initiate a massive manhunt with Booker as the target and her as the prize. Booker‟s Harley picked up speed within seconds and they flew down the dark highway. Once on the interstate, he opened up to full throttle, sending them 51

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blazing through the night at breakneck speed. Clinging to him with her legs and head tucked against his body, her mind reeled from everything that‟d transpired. The stark realization that Mott had killed an innocent woman, and to this day continued living a criminal life, was mind-boggling. His callous attitude disturbed her even more. That in his arrogance he assumed she‟d still want to marry him was preposterous. She actually had developed a healthy fear of him, as Booker had said she should. To indulge in overconfidence might be a costly mistake against a man of his caliber. He obviously stopped at nothing to have his way and she didn‟t feel he‟d easily let her go— especially since she‟d taken off with Booker. The two men definitely had cause to hate one another. They stopped at a truck stop for fuel, but Zoe remained on the bike as Booker instructed. Clearly on high alert, he wasn‟t leaving an opening for any surprise attacks. “If you need to relieve yourself, let me know,” he said. “I will keep watch, but don‟t expect me to leave you alone. The best I can do is look away.” She nodded her consent. Her life had been completely flipped around. Instead of hoping Mott would rescue her, Zoe now hoped he didn‟t find her—at least until she was better prepared to deal with him. She wanted to contact Paige. “Do you have my stuff…or did Travis take it?” she asked as he hung the gasoline nozzle back on its hook. He reached into the inside pocket of his leather jacket. “I have your cell phone. Travis took your bag.” “I see.” She lifted one side of her mouth in a half-frown. “Kept it separated to reduce my chances of escape.” “You seem to figure things out quickly.” He handed her the cell phone. “And you really kicked ass back there. Where‟d you learn to fight like that?” 52

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Zoe shrugged while pulling up her GPS, then a few minutes later, tapped a number out on the keypad. She never kept anyone on speed dial or listed contacts in her phone, to protect the identity of her friends. Looking up at Booker, she raised one finger as a motion for him to give her a moment and received a quizzical look in return. “Hey…” she spoke into the receiver when Paige answered the call. “Where are you at the moment?” “Oklahoma City, what‟s going on, Zoe? I can tell by the tone in your voice you‟re in fight mode.” “I‟m about three hours away. Call in the doves.” “Got it,” Paige responded, then disconnected. Zoe did a thorough inspection of her phone info before deleting the call history. She didn‟t see any signs that her cell had been used by anyone else. “Will you take me to Oklahoma City?” A sense of relief enveloped her that Paige was at her nearby chapter location and not on a run. Night Brigade‟s seven chapters had been carefully placed across the states with one division still in Pennsylvania, since that‟s where they‟d formed. “Is that where you‟ll tell me goodbye?” His unexpected candor took her off guard. “I-I wasn‟t even thinking about that. I‟m trying to get back on my feet.” He straddled the seat to her front, then revved the engine. In a flash, they were back on the road, riding at an alarming rate of speed. Zoe wasn‟t sure if she‟d angered him or if he simply wanted to get a better lead on the posse she knew would be hunting them. They drove for about twenty minutes before Booker guided the bike off an exit and onto back roads. “Where we going?” she asked close to his ear, thinking perhaps he wouldn‟t honor her request. “Taking a break.” 53

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She felt happy to have her phone again. Though Travis had her purse and all its contents, her cell was possibly the most important item she carried. With a touch of her finger, she had access to invaluable information and contact with the group. After parking in a secluded grove of thick woods, he dismounted. “Let‟s unwind a bit before another long stretch.” Booker lit a fresh cigarette. “Besides, if we wait long enough, Flaming Steel will ride straight on by us and we won‟t have to watch our backs.” “How can you be so sure?” She slid off the bike and onto a cool patch of grass. “They‟re idiots to hook up with him. Mott will send them off to track us down. They have no leader who rides…unless you think your pretty boy rock star will head up the pack…” “He‟s not my anything anymore. I don‟t appreciate the dig.” She looked at him with narrowed eyes and tight lips. A wry grin touched his face. “Just checking.” He plopped down beside her. “Anyway, I doubt Mott will want to get his hands dirty riding with them. Without a competent guide, they‟ll assume I took you back east to your home. That would be the most likely course of action and I don‟t think anyone in that pathetic pack will think otherwise.” “Sounds like you know them well.” She studied his face. “Maybe you‟re tighter with Flaming Steel than you let on.” “Don‟t insult me,” he growled. “Touché.” She tilted her head with a knowing smile. He held back a laugh, but the impact of her comeback shone in those captivating eyes. He was clearly impressed. “I‟ve been riding a long time. I make a point to know who‟s who. Though, I must admit, I‟m disappointed to see they sold out so easily and led me into a trap. I thought some of those guys were buddies of mine. Guess everyone‟s got their price.” 54

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“Speaking of that,” Zoe began. “What was Laura‟s role in all this?” “Oh, that.” Booker laughed outright. “Travis insisted on bringing the useless bitch along. He believed her presence would make you feel threatened and easier to control. We used her as a lookout to appease his need for a pacifier.” Zoe scowled at the thought. Travis and his ridiculous head games as always. “Is your only goal in life to get revenge on Mott?” She considered he may be using a smoke screen. Trust didn‟t come easy to her even though he did seem to be a man of his word thus far. “Why do you ask?” His expression deepened. “You ride alone yet make sure you know everything possible about other groups. It‟s obvious you‟ve been watching…waiting…for the chance to strike.” “True.” A light cloud of smoke billowed upward as he exhaled away from her. “My goals have changed somewhat. However, I‟m not through with Mott yet.” Zoe lay back on the grass, enjoying her freedom. “Neither am I.” “I take it the phone call you made has something to do with that?” He stretched out beside her, propped on his side. “Maybe.” “Do you realize that you rarely give me a straight answer?” She let out a light laugh, staring up into his eyes. They shimmered in the beams of moonlight filtering through the treetops. He looked extremely inviting, racked out on the ground, looking down at her with those dreamy eyes. “You ask too many questions. I don‟t get many answers from you either.” “I told you the whole story about Mott. Didn‟t that earn me some points?” 55

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“I‟m not grading you.” She laughed. “But there is something peculiar about you that…” “What? Don‟t do that…don‟t stop in the middle of a thought like you so often do. I‟ve never met a cagier woman.” He ground the spent smoke against the bottom of his boot until nothing remained but the filter. “You have an enigmatic allure, okay?” she admitted with a frustrated sigh. “I can count on one hand the men who have intrigued me. I find most men to be typical and boorish. But you…you‟re different in a way I can‟t put my finger on.” Booker swept the hair from her face, drawing it to one side. His hand came to rest just behind her jaw with tender fingers curled behind her neck. “Are you afraid to ask?” Their eyes met and he held her gaze. A chill crept along her skin—not of fear—but something deeper, darker. When he stared into her soul, a compelling hunger swept through her. “Sometimes.” She couldn‟t look away as if spellbound. How does he charm me like this? “Do I have to ask or will you tell me what‟s going on between us?” “I‟d rather show you.” He lowered his head until their lips all but met. “I belong to the night, Zoe.” His mouth covered hers in a sweetly delicious kiss. The scent of him wafted over her and she felt that unusual sensation of going under again as if he‟d cast a spell. An overwhelming, unexpected need to join with him consumed her—terrified her. Yet, she couldn‟t pull away. A powerful yearning in her spirit clung to his commanding physical magnetism. “Wait…” she murmured when his lips moved to her neck. The delectable nibbling had created an ache between her legs that she could barely stand. “Are you sure?” His warm breath feathered her skin, 56

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making it tingle. With her hands buried in that lush mane of sandy curls, she pulled his head back far enough to look into his eyes. “No…I‟m not sure.” What she saw in him stole her breath. An intense expression of desire unlike anything she‟d ever seen filled those lucid pools of blue. He was utterly irresistible. She felt his hunger—his clawing urge to take her as if he‟d willed it to her mind. His sensual lips parted slightly while he lay over her, taking deep, heavy breaths. The answers to her questions about him came rushing in at once—the potent seductive sway, mysterious allure and enchanting scent— her inexplicable attraction to him since their first encounter. Everything about him oozed undeniable charisma. And now she understood why, as her eyes refused to look away from his extended canines. Enthrallment and fear flooded her simultaneously. “You‟re a vampire?” she whispered, gasping for breath. He nodded with half-closed eyes. “Don‟t be afraid.” His lips met hers again. Tantalizing. Warm. Inviting—oh so inviting! She wanted him so much it hurt. “I can‟t.” Zoe rolled out from under him, then sat up. Booker peeled his shirt off, then gazed at her. “I need you. I can protect you if only you‟ll let me.” “I don‟t need protecting.” “Really?” He arched one brow. “There is more danger out there than you realize. Don‟t let your pride be the only reason you refuse me. I offer you all I am.” She stared at his torso, the muscular chest glistening with the heat of passion. Rippling abs merged with the waistband of threadbare jeans. Letting her gaze drift lower, she visually took in the huge bulge between his taut thighs. Her body ached almost unbearably. The urge to throw herself on him and kiss her way down that hard body—beaded with light 57

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sweat—threatened to overpower her. He crawled toward her on hands and knees, then knelt on the ground. Their eyes met again and she noticed his were extremely watery, indicating the severe hunger in his soul. “Is this what you offered Jade?” Booker rolled onto his back with a heavy sigh. “You‟re killin‟ me here, sugar.” Then he reached over, grabbed her waist and pulled her on top of him. “No. I was not like this back then. Had I been able to offer her protection, yeah, of course I would‟ve…I loved her. But it‟s been over twenty years. My reason for going after Mott was not because I am pining for Jade or any other woman for that matter. I told you why I took the job. I‟d think after everything you saw, perhaps you‟d start to trust me?” “I want to,” she said softly. “But how do I get past this? How did you become a vampire?” “I chose this fate when some buddies and I were partying.” She looked at him wide-eyed. Who would choose something like this? Regardless, she wanted to hear his story. “So the dark shadows you whispered about in my ear, are this?” He nodded. “A few years ago I was at a wild party. The house was a big old mansion-type filled with relics. One of the guys had inherited the estate from his grandfather. Rider said the place had been in his family for years and built by an uncle.” He stroked her hair with one hand while speaking. “We had all been good and wasted that night when Rider brought out an ancient bottle. He jokingly told us that if we drank the contents we‟d evolve into vampires.” Booker let out a light, sardonic laugh. “We all laughed, thinking Rider had way too much smoke. But he insisted his great, great grandfather had been a vampire and that the bottle contained the old man‟s blood mixed with vodka.” “Vodka?” Zoe lifted quizzical brows. 58

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“Yeah…vodka, because it‟s supposed to be the purest form of alcohol and supposedly preserved the potency of the blood.” “So you drank it?” “Like I said, we were all really fucked up so I figured, what the hell, let‟s see what happens. That was some wicked shit. One swig and I was flying.” “Did everyone at the party drink it?” She analyzed his expressions and body language to discern his sincerity in this incredulous story. Booker shook his head. “Just me and Rider. The others chickened out.” Zoe fell silent for a few minutes to process his words and search his eyes. They remained on the ground with her lying on top of him locked in an intense stare. She decided to wait for more information before speaking. Had she not seen his frightening canines for herself, she‟d have never believed a word he‟d just said. “I guess you‟re waiting for the rest,” he began with a charming smile that soothed her somewhat. “I had one hell of a hangover that lasted for days after that party. A few days later, I began craving rich food like liver, kidney and red meat. When that didn‟t satisfy me, I began eating raw steak. Thought about checking into the hospital, but deep in my soul I knew what was happening. My hair started growing very fast until one day it just stopped at the length it is now.” She reached out to touch the silky spirals. “I love your hair.” And there was that dazzling, enchanting smile again. He gave her a wink as if reading her thoughts, sending a pleasurable shudder through her. “Other than dealing with the bizarre cravings and heightened senses, I didn‟t experience anything terribly unpleasant. I didn‟t die or 59

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develop a nasty aversion to sunlight. I fell into immortality and have been waiting for the perfect mate.” “Are you certain that you are immortal?” “I was shot and stabbed in a gutter war a week after drinking the vodka. My wounds healed within an hour‟s time. So I asked Rider to research his family history or look for anything that explained what we‟d become.” Booker began taking on that air of desperate hunger again. “Rider finally found some info we needed. Carved into the design of the bottle was a Latin code. When translated it read, Whoever drinks this blood shall never die except by the sword of a fish. A woman chosen by bite is a mate for eternity. A comrade chosen by blood shall be loyal for all time. Needless to say, we don‟t eat swordfish.” He laughed. “Not sure if eating it would kill us or if the actual fin would have to be driven through our heart—or both. It‟s not our food of choice anyway.” A warm sensation washed over her at hearing the translation. She didn‟t have to think hard to gather the meaning. If he bites me, I am his mate for life. “Have any more of your friends converted?” “No. Rider and I have kept this under wraps. We never told the others what happened and he put the bottle and what was left inside away where nobody can find it.” His fingers caressed her neck. “You have lovely skin…sweet…soft. Have I answered all your questions?” “Yes,” she replied, quivering from his touch. In one smooth move, he switched positions so that he lay over her again. “You‟re the one I want, Zoe. I knew it the night we stole you away from the city.” “Why me?” She couldn‟t deny her fierce attraction to him. The way he fought—and felt—touched her unlike any other man. His voice softened and profound affection swept over his 60

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face. “I love the way you fight…” He placed a soft kiss on the corner of her mouth. “I love your smile…your sweet voice…” His lips brushed hers ever so lightly. “The way you look at me and, most importantly, the connection I feel with your spirit.” He bit at her neck. “And I know you feel it, too.” She wanted to scream from the heat racing through her. Surely my blood has turned into fire! He pressed his hard body into hers, awakening feelings never before known. Staring up at him through heavy eyes, she let her hands glide along his bare chest, across his broad shoulders, then down over the muscles of his arms. An intense ache began in the pit of her belly to travel through her entire body. Every part of her now silently begged for his touch. “Yes…I feel it, too,” she managed to whisper between ragged breaths. Though Booker hadn‟t come straight out and said the word, love had definitely been implied. He‟d been forthright with his confession that he‟d fallen for her. I’m okay with that, she told herself and wholly believed there was nothing fake about him. Everything he‟d said lined up with his actions and above all—she‟d fallen for him, too—and hard. Never had she been more certain about her feelings for a man. Even Mott had created doubt about their relationship early on. And during their entire engagement, he‟d never thrilled her like this enigmatic biker who now confessed to be a vampire. “Be my woman, Zoe. Don‟t let this moment pass. Together we will be unstoppable.” Strangely, taking the leap into his world didn‟t scare her. In reality, she‟d never felt afraid of him. Furious, yes! But never fear with this powerfully seductive male. She quickly considered how this could change Night Brigade and make them the indomitable force she dreamed they‟d be. A force 61

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to be reckoned with—respected and feared—a force to take down the most evil offenders. Her mind swiftly processed all the possibilities. As if ordained by a higher power, everything had fallen into place. She had already presented the group with the possibility of men joining their ranks and received a firm yes. Booker surpassed all her expectations of a suitable mate. He could rule by her side as her male selection for Night Brigade. But will a man of his distinction want to ride with a pack of vicious females? “You don‟t know my secret yet. I cannot give up what I fought so hard to achieve.” “Are you speaking of who you ride with?” “Yes…I won‟t leave my clan and you ride alone.” “Mm, yes, I do, but that will change when you become mine.” He delicately bit at her lip. “I‟m on fire, babe. I can‟t hold back much longer.” “Will you expect me to ride only with you or will you join my ranks?” “Sounds like you have an army…” Speculation moved through his eyes. “That‟s what you‟ve been guarding.” He appeared less stunned than she expected. “I can‟t release details to you unless absolute trust is reached between us.” Booker gave her an encouraging smile. “That covert, huh?” His eyes searched hers in a most disconcerting manner and she felt him bare her soul. Gentle hands brushed hair from the sides of her face, setting her at ease. His lips touched hers. “All female, are they? I assume the phone call was to one of your comrades?” Zoe nodded, astounded that he‟d been able to retrieve her most hidden thoughts. Yes, this man is definitely strong enough to be my mate! She waited for his response. “I will protect you and your army if you‟ll join me in my world as my mate. We can merge our secret worlds and be 62

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formidable.” “Yes!” she said in an elated whisper. **** His spirit soared. Without further delay, Booker eased into position, sliding one arm beneath her lower back while his free hand caressed the silky skin of her neck. Gently he turned her head slightly to the side. She closed her eyes, then entwined herself about him. He basked in the sensation of her arms around his neck and those killer legs locked behind his waist. Arousal rose fast until the uncomfortable tightening in his jeans felt rock hard. Regardless of his burning need to mate, he wouldn‟t make love to her until they were united in blood. No way did he want to lose his heart again. Once she belonged to him in spirit, then he‟d take delight in her body. “Zoe,” he murmured against her neck. “Relax and let me sweep you away, babe.” At his words, he felt her body melt against his. She felt soft—supple—indescribable. Saliva flooded his mouth as his canines lengthened in excited anticipation of the bite. He hadn‟t had fresh blood in days as there had been no time to seek out a butcher shop. Killing animals was not something he‟d do to slake his appetite and taking a human life would be even worse unless justified. He could tell by her scent that Zoe‟s blood would be rich and oh-so-sweet! Booker nipped and kissed until finding an ideal point of puncture on her creamy flesh. Upon securing just a spot, he sucked fervently to prepare the skin. She gasped and cried out when he bit down, his teeth sunk deep into the vein. The pungent taste of blood—her blood—filled his mouth and made his senses reel. Hungrily he drank, holding her tight 63

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against him, supporting her back and head with both hands. Their spirits joined with staggering intensity, delivering an instant high. He knew she felt it, too, even amidst the pain of his bite, as she was writhing and moaning beneath him. A groan rose in his chest as her wholesome blood warmed his throat. In complete submission, she clung to him as he devoured the gift she so freely offered. This woman is amazing! I will guard her with my life. Upon taking his fill, enough to satisfy his need yet not so much that it would harm her, he eased up and began soothing the wound with his tongue. She moaned again in a soft, pleasing manner that made him burn to make love to her. “Ooohhh…” She panted beneath his chest. “I feel amazing.” Her lips trailed over his skin, leaving a trail of succulent kisses in their wake. “I didn‟t hurt you too much?” he murmured in a very soft tone. “No…it hurt only for a moment, then the most awesome feeling of bliss washed over me, as if I was soaring above the clouds. I felt free like never before.” She gazed up at him with passion-glazed eyes. “Ah, sugar, I want so much to make love to you…” “But?” “We should give your blood time to rejuvenate so you don‟t become lightheaded.” His lips met hers for a sweet, lingering kiss. “When the cravings start, don‟t go running for the nearest butcher—feed on me. Doing so will make you stronger and enable us to feed on each other. I long to take your body and blood at the same time…it will be the ultimate high.” His tongue swept over his lips to savor every last drop of her precious blood. “I bet you‟ve got some moves,” she purred with a longing gaze. “Rock band…biker…mm…” “Yeah…” He sighed with a light groan. She turned him 64

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on immensely. Her face radiated light and her blonde hair had fanned out around her head like a halo on the grass, picking up the moonlight to shimmer as silken strands of gold. She was pure heaven in her own right—an angel sent to save his dark soul. He rained kisses of adoration over her bare shoulders, neck, face and luscious mouth—bathing his new woman in endless affection. What she‟d given him rested deep in his soul to be rooted there forever. “We are one now, Zoe. Our souls have been joined and so have our worlds.” “It was hard for me to trust you with my secret life before letting you bite me.” “I had to trust you, too, babe. Knowing the ferocity you carry, it wasn‟t easy telling you what I am and how I can be killed.” He gave her a reassuring kiss. She laughed sweetly. “Yes, I suppose that was quite a risk.” “Well worth it,” he said. **** “So tell me about this man, Rider. Is he a good friend?” Zoe asked as they prepared to ride again. “Best friend I‟ve ever had.” “Where is he?” “Out in California somewhere. He‟s a drifter. Takes odd jobs whenever he can to pick up a little cash.” “Does he have a bike, too? Was he in the band? He‟s a vampire, too, right?” Booker slanted an amused look her way. “Just full of questions now, aren‟t ya?” Zoe shrugged and laughed. “Hey, after what we just did, I think I‟m entitled to a little information.” 65

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“Yes…Rider has a bike and he was in the band. And yeah, like I told you, he was the only other one who drank the vodka that night so he‟s like me.” “I assume since he‟s your best friend that he left the band when you did?” Booker nodded while giving his Harley a final inspection. “Yep. He told Mott to fuck off. We left him without a lead guitarist and a drummer.” “I guess he found another drummer,” Zoe said. “But they‟re still a four man band. You must have been one hell of a rocker.” His modest smile touched her as he spoke. “I can jam. And that drummer they have ain‟t shit compared to Rider. They may have stolen my songs, but like Mott just confessed, the band didn‟t pull in the money they expected. The bulk of their fame came from the early years when they were using my works.” He motioned for her to mount the bike. “If you wanna stay on top in that business, you need to keep putting out hits.” “And here I thought his band was doing so well and that‟s where all the money came from.” “He‟s a master of manipulation.” “Well he‟s in good company then.” Zoe scowled. “He and Travis deserve each other.” “So next stop Oklahoma City, huh?” Booker straddled his seat. “Am I dropping you at the door or do I get to meet these elusive friends of yours?” “I think it‟s time for you to meet my crew.” Booker glanced back at her, his eyes sparkled mischievously. “Got a friend for Rider in that pack?” “Maybe.” She laughed, loving his lighter side as much as the rebel in him. He did a visual scan in all directions before heading onto the highway. As they picked up speed, Zoe settled in for 66

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another awesome ride. But now her situation had swung around. No longer held as a captive hoping for her man to pay ransom, her status had dramatically changed. Bound by blood to this hotter-than-hell vampire biker, now she was taking him back to meet her clan. She wondered how her comrades would feel about Booker—moreover how they‟d respond to his immortal status and that she‟d taken the plunge to join him. Oddly enough, Zoe felt no regret in her decision. Actually, nothing had ever felt more right. **** Booker‟s theory had been right about Flaming Steel driving past them as no sign of the group had been detected during their travels. Once inside the city limits, she pointed out the turns to make until they arrived at a massage parlor in a small suburban area. Then she motioned for him to pull around back. He appreciated her skilled use of hand language, as trying to speak over the growl of the engine would have been difficult. Several other motorcycles sat parked behind a large yellow brick building. “Doesn‟t look like much,” he said as they walked up a small set of concrete steps to the back door. “It‟s not supposed to,” Zoe responded with a smile. He smiled approvingly. “Don‟t you have a key?” he asked when she rapped on the door. “Yeah…I do.” She let out a soft, cynical laugh. “It was in my bag.” Booker simply smiled, unable to miss the sarcasm in her voice. A soft voice spoke from the other side of the door. “Who‟s there?” “White doves fly at night,” Zoe replied in almost a whisper with her face against the doorjamb. Slowly the door 67

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opened. “Hey.” “Zoe Bella!” A pretty woman with pale blonde hair threw her arms around Zoe‟s neck, then ushered them both inside, but not before casting a scrutinizing, yet openly favorable gaze over Booker. “I‟ve been worried about you, girl.” They walked to a private office, then closed the door. The three of them pulled up chairs and took a seat facing one another. “Who‟s your guest?” Paige inquired. “He must be significant for you to bring him here.” “Yeah, you could put it that way,” Zoe said with a short laugh. “Paige, this is Booker.” Booker accepted her hand and gave it a cordial squeeze before she pulled it away. “Hey, Booker, nice to meet you.” He nodded. “Likewise.” Zoe began filling Paige in on her encounter with Travis, Mott and Flaming Steel, so Booker sat back in observation. Immediately he picked up on the closeness between the two women and assumed this female was probably Zoe‟s closest friend. The two ladies made a striking pair and he doubted they could walk the streets without turning many heads. He did a subtle once over of Paige, letting his gaze travel from her light hair, which was several inches shorter than Zoe‟s, down her slender almost skinny body to her booted feet. Though not his type, she was very pretty with large, cat-like green eyes. Booker preferred his women with more curves, but the thought of hooking her up with Rider flitted through his mind. “So…” Paige directed her attention at Booker. “Do I meet your approval? Don‟t think I didn‟t notice you checking me out.” Her intent to fluster him failed. He simply smiled and leaned back in the chair. “You look pretty good. Not my 68

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type, but I have a buddy who wouldn‟t mind meeting you.” He did another quick inspection of Paige. “That is if you‟re unattached.” His cool demeanor and direct approach clearly took her by surprise. Paige stammered and her cheeks flushed. “Well-I-uh…Zoe, do you know who he‟s talking about?” He caught a hint of jealousy in Zoe‟s watchful eyes, and realized that she may view all women as a possible threat—a burden he didn‟t want her to bear. She‟d been burned twice and he wasn‟t about to give her reason to ever doubt his loyalty. “I‟m thinking he means his friend, Rider.” Her tone of voice revealed slight agitation. Booker nodded in agreement, then stood up and pulled Zoe to her feet. “Excuse us a minute,” he said to Paige. Then led Zoe to the far corner and positioned her back to the wall with his body shielding her from Paige‟s view. He lifted her chin with a gentle hand so that their eyes met. “Look, doll,” he began in a low voice. “I will never have eyes for anyone but you.” “Damn, Booker. I saw the way you two checked each other out and how flustered she got. Do you have this effect on all women?” “Sometimes, but very few impress me.” “Must you check them out and be so obvious about it?” Fire sparked in her eyes and he felt his arousal mount. He moved his lips close to hers and whispered, “I check everyone out. It‟s my nature. It‟s how I survive. Don‟t get pissy with me because I will be watching every pretty woman you introduce me to and the ugly ones, too.” “Pissy?” She brought the heel of her boot down on his instep with more force than expected from a little firecracker like her. He refused to give her the pleasure of knowing that her 69

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strike hurt. Without another word, he buried his hands in her hair while sealing his lips to hers. She sighed in submission as he filled her sweet mouth with his tongue, pressing her tight against the wall with his body. He kissed her deeply for a few long minutes before drawing back. She stared up at him with misty eyes. “Don‟t think I wouldn‟t take you right here right now if I thought you needed a reminder of how much you mean to me,” he uttered in a low growl. She gasped in feigned shock. However, he felt her heat and knew her panting came from the burning desire in her soul to have him do just that. His lips brushed her ear. “But since we have not yet made love, this is nor the time or place for our first mating. Because when I do take you…my love…you will scream.” “Okay.” She stared up at him, unable to hide the enthralled look on her face. Her heated temper transformed into a look of utter passion when their eyes met once more. “Are we clear?” “Yeah…” “I look forward to making you scream,” he murmured before releasing her. Her aroused expression pleased him. He loved her fire but had no intention of letting her think she had the upper hand. She challenged him like no other woman had ever done. Yet he didn‟t want to control or dominate this incredibly irresistible creature. He longed to join with her as equal forces to combine the power in their souls. Currently, she felt threatened and he understood, therefore he would patiently reassure her as needed. Zoe had held his heart in her hand since the day they met and she didn‟t even know it—which was reason enough to emphasize his strength upon occasion. Booker simply was not the type of man to gush or walk around with his heart 70

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open to the world. Zoe would learn to accept his private nature and trust his love for her. **** “Zoe? Are you okay?” Paige asked when they gathered again.” “Yeah…just tired. The past few days have been rather trying.” “I mean with him?” Zoe let out a brief airy laugh, still somewhat breathless from Booker‟s abrupt, yet sensual display of power. Wow, this man can really bring on the heat. Paige offered her a fresh bottled water for which she gratefully accepted. “Don‟t worry about Booker,” she said. “I have much more to tell you and we need to map out a plan to attack Flaming Steel. They‟re going to pay for their involvement with Travis‟s wicked scheme and so will Mott.” “What about him?” Paige nodded toward Booker. “He had a hand in it as well.” “He was never in it for the money,” Zoe replied. “Yes, his initial motivation was to strike at Mott, but he‟d planned to get the woman out to save her not hurt her. We just didn‟t see this coming.” Paige seemed a little confused. “See what coming?” “Our attraction to each other.” “How do I know he didn‟t force you here under duress to infiltrate our group?” Zoe thought for a minute and understood why Paige might be suspicious. Zoe had never mentioned Booker, or brought anyone else to one of their hideouts. She struggled for a way to explain her new relationship and suddenly realized that to her comrades this would seem very peculiar. “You do recall I expressed my reservations about Mott, 71

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right?” Paige nodded, leaning forward with her chin resting on one hand. She cast a furtive glance in Booker‟s direction, not undetected by Zoe. Maybe we do need to hook her up with Rider. Zoe felt uneasy, knowing that Paige was attracted to Booker. I better get used to it. He will meet many more members in the near future and with his looks, there will most likely be more drooling females. She sighed and dropped her head in her hands. Paige needed to know everything in order for them to move forward. “Paige…there is no easy way to tell you this…” Zoe sat up straight, then swept her hair to one side, revealing the fresh bite mark. “Booker is immortal and I belong to him.” “Zoe!” Paige gasped with open mouth and wide eyes. “Of your own free will or is he blackmailing you?” Zoe caught Booker‟s displeased expression from the corner of her eye. She knew Paige had insulted him. “Of my own free will.” Zoe didn‟t waver. “I‟ve met my match in him.” Silence hung in the air for what felt like a very long time. Finally, Paige spoke again. “Is he your selected male for Night Brigade?” “Yes.” Zoe slid her hand into Booker‟s. He wrapped long fingers around hers in a welcoming gesture. “Night Brigade…so that‟s the name of your army?” he asked. Zoe half-smiled. “Yeah…ironic isn‟t it?” “It‟s a cool name,” Booker commented. “Thank you,” added Paige. “The name was Zoe‟s brainchild.” “She hasn‟t told me anything about your group. The little I know I figured out on my own.” He draped an arm over Zoe‟s shoulders, leaning into her slightly. “So how did this group come about?” 72

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“You can tell him, Zoe.” Paige seemed a bit reserved. “I told you about my marriage and why I left,” Zoe began. “When Travis joined Flaming Steel, I led him to believe I hated road bikes and wanted nothing to do with any of it. If he had known I was the least bit interested, he‟d have bullied me into going with him.” “I see. The pieces are coming together,” Booker said. “That‟s why you didn‟t want him to know you were enjoying the ride.” “Yeah. The less he knows about me, the better,” she continued. “So while he was out forming friendships within the ranks of Flaming Steel, I saw the perfect chance to get out and make some friends of my own. There was a cool pub with weekend bands not far away so I started going there to dance. I had a hard time at first—getting used to being around people again. I had become very shy. But then I met Paige.” Zoe smiled warmly at her. “She was awesome. She had a kick-ass attitude and a sweet bike. We became fast friends and she taught me how to ride.” Booker smiled, impressed by her grit. “I take it dancing turned into weekend riding lessons?” “We danced a little.” Zoe grinned while thinking back. “Travis felt pretty confident that I was beaten so he began taking weekend road trips. That‟s when I really learned to ride. Paige let me drive while she sat behind me and we tore up the road. One night I mentioned forming an all-female biker gang and jokingly suggested we make it a vigilante group to deliver justice to pricks like Travis.” “And Joe,” Paige added. “Don‟t forget that bastard.” Zoe tossed her head back with a light laugh. “Oh yeah…Paige was in a bad marriage, too. But her husband was white collar and left her home alone while he did the office secretary.” “Nothing like a common bond between two pissed off 73

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women to get something started.” Booker‟s wry comment made them grin. “Exactly,” Zoe said. “And there you have it. Paige approached her single biker friends and we formed a group. Paige would ride out to get me, then let me borrow her other bike to ride. After my divorce, I was able to buy my own and kept it hidden. We made it clear that nonmembers were never to know about us, not even boyfriends or family. Within a year, our pack had grown to more than fifty women and an underground network had been set up by some of the computer experts. You‟d be amazed at how many talented women get overlooked.” “Maybe by most men, but I have always appreciated a woman with intelligence and spunk,” he said. “So that‟s how you got away, isn‟t it?” “Yes.” Zoe leaned against him affectionately. “A couple years after we formed our pack, we had become close to a hundred strong. I finally had enough courage to divorce Travis. I knew it wouldn‟t be pretty, but my girls helped me through it.” “So how‟d you come up with the name?” Booker asked. “Well, Brigade was easy, because of its obvious meaning. Brigade says more than just a random group—it indicates a force with purpose. I didn‟t want anything shallow or remotely close to Travis‟s pack. I really wanted to be my own person and get away from him, his family or anything related to them. Since we hold our meetings at night to remain covert…well, Night Brigade fit nicely.” Zoe hoped that during her account to Booker that Paige had time to absorb her shocking revelation. Booker‟s inquiry about Night Brigade had been perfect timing to alleviate the awkward moment. Paige‟s gaze shifted between Zoe and Booker a couple times, then she focused on Booker. 74

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“So, now you know about us. What are your intentions? Are you prepared to adhere to our code and undergo combat training?” “You want me to fight one of your women?” He clearly didn‟t like the idea. “I‟m not into hurting females.” Paige laughed. Zoe cringed, wondering how Booker would respond. “If you can defeat Hannah in battle, then we will consider your membership,” Paige told him without blinking. “You‟re joking.” He glanced at Zoe and lifted a questioning brow. “We never joke about taking on new members. Sorry…but you will have to fight Hannah to prove your skills in battle,” Zoe reiterated. “Even as leader, I cannot break the rules for anyone, not even my mate.” “Zoe…may we speak privately?” Paige asked. Booker stood up. “Say no more, I was about ready to step outside for a smoke.” He exhibited class by graciously bowing out.

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Chapter Four

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kay, we‟re alone. Now tell me the truth…is this man still holding you captive?” Paige asked. Genuine concern shone in her eyes. “Did he really bite you or is this some kind of ploy on his part? You know we can take him down if need be.” “No!” Zoe grabbed Paige‟s hand. “Don‟t hurt him…not that I‟m sure we could…but I want to be with him.” She pressed Paige‟s fingers to the wound on her neck. “He‟s a vampire…I know it sounds crazy and it‟s a long story. But I‟ve never known a man like him. He was never the one holding me prisoner. Travis had masterminded the entire thing and I suspect Mott may have been his accomplice.” Paige slowly pulled her hand away from Zoe‟s neck. An alarmed look darted through her eyes and she went a bit pale. Zoe saw a sudden dawn of realization sweep over her. Paige did her best to cover her distress. “You think Travis and Mott worked together? Why the hell would they do that?” “To shanghai Flaming Steel—Mott is now their new leader. Travis made himself look like a victim, but I know how his mind works. I wouldn‟t be at all surprised if the two of them used me to dupe Steel into accepting Mott and on his terms yet.” “Wow…this sounds like serious shit, Zoe. How did 76

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Booker fall into this?” Zoe didn‟t want to betray Booker‟s trust by divulging private details about his personal life, so she kept her explanation brief. “He has a score to settle with Mott over something that transpired between them long ago. I can assure you that Booker had planned to get me out and away from Mott before he even knew who I was. He knows more about Mott than I do and trust me—none of it is nice. If Booker hadn‟t agreed to be Travis‟s paid accomplice, I may have never escaped.” “Still, he got paid for abducting you. Are you sure this isn‟t a post-traumatic stress situation?” Zoe shook her head vehemently. “He didn‟t take the money. I saw Travis offer Booker his cut and watched him smack it away. Then we fought like hell to get out of there.” “You fought together?” “Yeah…” Zoe momentarily drifted back to that instant when she and Booker had kicked ass to get away. “He was awesome. I know he will go easy on Hannah.” “You‟re that confident in his skills, are you?” “You didn‟t see him.” Zoe felt a flurry of excitement race through her. Images of Booker fighting, then lying beneath him in the woods against his bare chest floated through her mind. She smiled as a delightful shiver trickled over her skin. “Or feel him.” “Oh, dear God,” Paige exclaimed. “You‟re head over heels in love with this man.” “I belong to him…bound by blood forever. Yes, I am crazy about him.” Zoe tilted her head with a curious smile. “You felt it, didn‟t you? What did you see when you touched my neck? I saw the look in your eyes…what was it?” Paige openly shuddered. “This will sound absurd, but I saw him and another man…” She hesitated as if unable to 77

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believe her own words. “A man with long, dark, curly hair and deep brown eyes. They were both drinking from an unusual bottle and laughing.” “That must be Rider!” Zoe said in an excited whisper. “I‟ve not met him nor did I ask what he looked like. However, Booker did tell me that he and Rider were the only two who drank from the bottle that night.” “What night? What bottle?” Paige appeared panicstricken. “The night Booker became a vampire…they drank blood from an old bottle Rider had inherited with his grandfather‟s estate.” “He inherited a bottle?” “I guess. Maybe he found it in the house after moving in. Either way, he‟d told Booker that if they drank what was inside they‟d become vampires. They did it in jest, but turned out the myth was very real. Now they are both vampires.” “Zoe, is that what you are now?” “Yeah…” Zoe paused meditatively. “It didn‟t sound so bad while lying in the woods with Booker. Oh, Paige, you have no idea. I couldn‟t resist him…I just couldn‟t.” “But, Zoe…a vampire?” “Just think what this will do for Night Brigade? We will be unstoppable. Booker is fearless and strong and—” “And sexy as hell,” Paige interrupted. “I think your hormones clouded your judgment.” Zoe let out a soft laugh. “Yes, he is so very sexy…and sensual. From that first night in the cabin, I never stood a chance against his seductive power. The way he looked at me, his scent…and when he touched me, just the slightest brush of his hand thrilled me in an unbelievable way.” “Have you gone mad, girl?” “Oh c‟mon, Paige, I saw the way you were looking at him, 78

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the blush on your face when he spoke to you. Tell me you could say no to such a man!” Paige shook her head with a sheepish grin. “Mm, well, you have a point there. Do you suppose Rider is just as hot?” “Hey, you know that they say about birds of a feather. I bet Rider is a hot catch, too. You interested? How about it…you and I rule Night Brigade with two vampire studs at our side? Can you imagine anything more incredible?” “Are you sure this isn‟t a smooth tactic to keep my eyes off your man?” Paige asked. “I won‟t deny it.” Zoe looked at her straight on. “I don‟t like the thought of other women ogling him. However, Booker did ask me if I had a friend for Rider though, so the man must be looking for a mate. Hey, did he look hot in that little vision you had?” A whimsical smile crept over Paige‟s face. “It was a very quick glimpse, but if that‟s who I saw, then yes, this Rider looked rather hot. I like men with dark hair.” “Wanna meet him?” Zoe asked in a daring tone. Paige hesitated as a host of mixed emotions flickered in her eyes. Zoe saw the intrigue, then some trepidation followed by a spark of excitement. She felt her friend‟s confliction—sensed Paige‟s yearning for a man. “Okay, Zoe. If you can do this, then so can I. We‟ve had each other‟s back since starting this thing. You couldn‟t be more of a sister to me than if we shared the same blood…” They both laughed at the unintended pun. “I don‟t want anything to come between us or hinder Night Brigade. This was initially your dream to make us one of the most revered biker groups on the road. And it became mine, too. You‟ve worked so hard to get us this far. If taking a leap with you is what it takes to fulfill our ambition, then count me in. Bring on this Rider fellow and let‟s see what happens.” 79

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Zoe threw her arms around Paige in a fierce hug. “Do you realize how powerful we will be? When the other sisters see us united, they will surely follow our lead.” “This vampire thing…is it scary to change?” “Well, the bite was mind-blowing.” Zoe shrugged and laughed off the fear. “Booker said when I get the blood cravings to feed on him so I become stronger.” Paige couldn‟t conceal her rising enthusiasm. “Ooohhh, that sounds erotic.” “Mm, yeah…” Zoe felt that distant calling reach into her soul again. **** “How in bloody hell could you possibly lose them?” Mott ranted, throwing his empty beer bottle against the wall. Chards of glass sprayed across the floor. “There are only two of them and two hundred of you!” “They just fucking disappeared, man,” Travis replied, feeling in over his head. “Disappeared?” Mott looked furious. “Find them,” he said in a menacing growl. “Zoe belongs to me and Booker is to die. Find them or you‟ll not live to see old age.” “Where do you suggest we look? We‟ve combed the area, even had some of the guys take shortcuts to get ahead of them in hopes of cutting Booker off in front. They never showed up. There‟s no way he could‟ve gotten that far ahead so fast. You‟re the leader of this pack now. Don‟t you know how to ride?” His sarcasm was met with a sharp punch to the face, knocking him back but not down. He glared at Mott, hatred welled inside. “I‟m paying this group of mutts to do my dirty work. I don‟t have time to be chasing shadows on the wall. If I don‟t 80

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oversee business, none of us will make money. And I have work in New York with my band as soon as I get Zoe back.” Travis rubbed his jaw, staring back with narrowed eyes. “Oh yeah, your band. When was your last hit by the way?” “You‟re seeking to get a good thrashing, aren‟t ya, boy?” Mott sneered. “Don‟t think because you sold out your friends that we are mates. If your buddies down there discover that you were the tip-off, they‟ll have you for lunch.” “And you feel so confident that they will want you around if they find out we worked together? You don‟t know these men. They might get pissed at me, but they‟ll fucking kill you.” “Right.” Mott laughed arrogantly. “Like any of you have a backbone.” “None of this was my idea. You‟re the one who wanted it to look like a kidnapping and make the guys believe you‟d call in the law if they didn‟t cooperate. I was only in it for the money.” Travis shifted his weight, feeling the urge to get out of there. “Well, the payback to Zoe…I couldn‟t resist that.” “She must be sharper than you thought,” said Mott. “Didn‟t take her long to put it together. I need to bring her under control so she doesn‟t start spreading rumors.” “Good luck with that. When she divorced me, I was shocked as shit to learn she had so many friends—and powerful ones, too. They hired a better lawyer than mine!” “I‟m not interested in your failed marriage, or your divorce. I want Zoe back and I wanna know who her friends are. She never let on during our time in New York, but I have good reason to believe that she belongs to another biker group.” Travis laughed outright. “Zoe? A biker chick? You must be kidding! She hated everything about motorcycles when we were married. I tried getting her to ride with me, to join 81

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Flaming Steel, but she was very adamant about wanting nothing to do with it.” “Are you sure you were even married to her? How could you not know she loves bikes? You‟re telling me that she never showed a hint of interest in your cycle when you rode?” “None. She wouldn‟t even come down to the garage to take a look.” Mott just shook his head. “You really didn‟t know her. Up in New York, she lived to ride and was always on me to get the bike out.” “Must have been something she‟d taken to after leaving me. Whatever, man. I have a new woman in my life. Watching Zoe suffer on the back of Booker‟s bike was almost as good as the money.” “From what you told me, doesn‟t sound like she did much suffering,” Mott said with arched brows. “And you don‟t sound like you‟re over her.” Travis felt his muscles tense. Is Mott right about Zoe? Had she been keeping a secret during our marriage? Had she actually enjoyed riding with Booker? He began to feel like a pawn between Mott and Booker. “Even if your hunch is right, why is it so important that you know who she rides with?” Mott didn‟t respond. Instead, he inhaled a long drag from his cigarette while staring in the opposite direction. “What are you…some kind of power hungry fiend?” Travis pressed. “Is this why you contacted me with your twisted scheme? You‟re interest in Flaming Steel is just a front to flush out the pack you think Zoe runs with, isn‟t it? This whole mess has nothing to do with you needing a warehouse or drug runners or wanting to lead our gang. My group isn‟t the one you want…you‟re after Zoe‟s group! That‟s why you need us, because you don‟t have the balls to 82

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ride alone.” His comment must‟ve struck a raw nerve because in the next instant he lay sprawled on the floor, his eye throbbing with pain. He glared up at Mott who stood over him as if prepared to pound him into the floor. “I do have use for a warehouse and some watchmen,” Mott growled. “But if you think I‟d trust any of your cronies to move the merchandise, then you‟re bloody insane.” “You pledged money to Flaming Steel if I went along with your plan. I did everything as you instructed. Convinced my buddies I was kidnapping Zoe for ransom, promised them a huge cut if they let me hide out here, and gave you the location of our camp once I had Zoe on the road.” “They got their money.” “What about future income? They think you‟ll turn them in if they don‟t do your bidding and they‟re expecting to be paid.” “Good!” Mott bellowed. “Because I will hand all of you over to the coppers if you ever think about double crossing me.” He grabbed Travis by the collar, then lifted him off the floor. “Now get the hell out of here and don‟t come back without her this time. Oh, and no worries, you‟re gang will get paid. Once I have Zoe and her clan, you‟ll be of no further use to me and I don‟t want to be hassled for money after I‟m gone.” Travis stumbled out the door, then heard it slam behind him. The realization of what he‟d done hit him full force. His lust for money and revenge had placed Flaming Steel in a grave position. Now under the control of Mott who seemed to have a serious issue with Booker, the group had no choice but to follow the orders of their new leader. A leader who‟d blackmailed his way into their organization with the help of Travis. What he thought would be a beneficial move for his 83

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biking group turned out to be a disastrous decision on his part. His only consolation was that Mott‟s obsession with Zoe went beyond his desire to own Flaming Steel. All we have to do is find her and bring her back, then Mott will move on and turn his attention to getting control over whoever Zoe rides with. He still couldn‟t see her as a biker. She‟d never given any inclination. When Mott had made the comment during the first encounter about her desire to take road trips, it hadn‟t registered amid the chaos. Travis felt defeated. Nevertheless, he had to push forward. His only choice now was to get back on the road and find Zoe in order to get rid of Mott. **** “Hey,” Zoe softly greeted Booker when she found him sitting on his parked bike, enjoying a smoke. He gazed at her with loving eyes. He smiled, then flicked the spent cigarette to the ground and stomped it out. “Hey, yourself,” he responded in a warm tone. Without another word, his hands slid into her hair, drawing her face close for a tender kiss. She relaxed against him, winding her arms around his neck as his tongue danced with hers. The kiss quickly deepened, making her sigh with desire. Their lips pulled hungrily at one another‟s as if unable to get close enough to each other. He groaned, letting one hand move down her back and over her behind, pulling her close between his outstretched legs. She felt the hard bulge in his jeans press against her and the heat in her body began to burn. His lips eased around to her neck—nibbling—sucking the tender skin. She buried her face in his hair, panting for breath. 84

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“I want you so much right now,” she whispered, awed by the intense effect he had on her. Physical attraction to men had always been something she‟d easily controlled—until Booker. “There is a room upstairs where we can hang out if you don‟t mind staying here among my clan.” Booker pulled back just far enough for their eyes to meet. “It‟s been a long night.” He glanced at the rising sun. “This place will do just fine for now.” “C‟mon.” She took his hand. They strolled back into the building. Booker gave Paige a polite nod as they passed her on their way up the flight of wooden stairs. Zoe led him to the end of a hall where she opened the door to a single room with a double bed, some basic furniture and a full bathroom. A compact stereo sat on an end table to one side of the bed. She pressed a button and classic rock music filled the room. “I can‟t wait to shower.” “Do you plan to shower alone?” he asked while peeling the black sleeveless tee from his upper torso. Her gaze moved slowly over his body as he shucked his jeans and boots. Those tight abs she‟d kissed merged into a package of masculinity she longed to feel. What those threadbare jeans had been concealing did not disappoint. Long, lean muscular legs, sexy thighs and an impressive erection that made her ache with want. “You can join me if you like,” she said, feeling breathless. He moved toward her, then began undressing her in a slow, teasing fashion. His lips found hers while easily stripping her down. They melted into a passionate embrace while inching toward the shower. Booker reached down and turned the handle to bring on the water, then pulled her into the stall, all the while kissing her with hot desire. His fingers curled behind her neck as warm water cascaded over their naked bodies. 85

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Zoe surrendered to his touch, welcoming the sensual caresses over her breasts. His blazing kisses felt like fire on her skin as he bit her earlobe before grazing his way along her neck, face, shoulders, and back to her lips. “Oh my god, Booker,” she murmured. “You‟re making me crazy…please…” “Mm,” he groaned while gripping her thigh with one hand. “We can‟t have that.” She gasped as he eased into her, filling her with hard, male sex. “Ohh…” His heavy sigh swirled around her. “My angel,” he halfwhispered, half-groaned. “It‟s been so long since I‟ve made love.” Somewhat surprised by his comment, she pushed it aside for now and chose not to reveal how long it had been for her, too. His cock felt incredible as he pushed deeper with each thrust. With one leg wrapped behind his legs and her arms about his neck, she clung to his stalwart frame while he fucked her with raw passion. His urgent need surfaced and she welcomed it with zeal. He buried his face against her neck, amidst the soaked strands of hair. His lips nibbled and sucked her skin while taking her higher with each wonderful drive of his magnificent sex. One strong arm held her tight against him while he supported her leg with a hand under her thigh to gain deeper penetration. “Oh…I‟m going to come,” she muttered. The sensation of his rock hard erection stroking every inch of her aching pussy became overwhelming. She shuddered moments before wicked spasms racked her body. “Fuck yeah…” He groaned as his cock jerked, then released a flood of warm liquid into her body, making her orgasm even more intense. His mouth found hers again, kissing her with undeniable 86

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hunger as they climaxed together. She felt his body tremble against hers as his tongue plunged to the back of her throat. A deep moan of pleasure rose in her chest and her knees felt weak. “You feel amazing,” he whispered close to her ear after easing from the stimulating kiss. “I‟m gonna take you to bed and make you scream.” Chills raced over her. Effortlessly he scooped her into his arms, then reached down with one hand to turn off the water. He carried her to the bed where he laid over her and continued the intense kissing, touching and teasing until again his sex joined with hers over and over, carrying her to heights of ecstasy she never dreamed possible. She wanted to scream, cry out, anything to release the scorching heat he induced, yet with other members in the house, she used every ounce of self-control to conceal their wild union.

Lying on the bed, curled around him, Zoe basked in the afterglow of their incredible joining. First the steamy sex in the shower, then the wild, deeply passionate lovemaking in bed. He had been gentle yet wonderfully powerful at the same time. Never had a man made her feel as he‟d just done. “You said it‟s been so long,” she said, unable to withhold her curiosity. “Yes. You seem surprised.” “I am. You‟re amazing and irresistible.” “And choosy,” he added, looking at her with an easy smile. “I‟ve not taken a woman since drinking the blood tainted vodka.” “Really? Wow, that‟s a long time to be abstinent.” “I‟ve been waiting for the perfect mate—a woman strong enough to be my match.” 87

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“Me, too,” she confessed. “I never gave myself to Mott.” “Seriously?” He neglected to hide his delight over her profession. “How did you manage to put him off for so long?” “I had just finalized my divorce before meeting Mott. I wasn‟t going to jump into a physical relationship with someone I didn‟t fully trust and I made that crystal clear to him when we started dating. That may have been why he pushed for the engagement so soon.” Booker rolled her onto her back, positioning his hard body over her. “You‟re my angel,” he said. “Taking me from darkness to light when I‟m in your arms.” His sweetly spoken words moved her. Tears welled in her eyes. Zoe wanted to tell him she loved him, that she‟d been drawn to him since their first encounter. However, she couldn‟t open herself to that level of vulnerability yet. “What‟s on your mind, babe?” He had amazing intuition and seemed to continually pick up on her inner feelings. “You.” “What about me?” “Just thinking about how awesome you are. I‟ve never felt this way…ever.” His lips brushed hers affectionately. “And that scares the hell of you, doesn‟t it?” “Yeah.” “Relax. There isn‟t anything you can do to stop me loving you.” “You sound very self-assured,” she said. “You‟re not worried that we moved too fast?” “I am a man who knows what he wants. Unless you‟re having second thoughts—then no, I am not concerned.” “No, I‟m sure you‟re the man for me…” She hesitated. “Ah, I see. Your conflict is about me then. You question my commitment to you in the long term, because your trust 88

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has been betrayed twice over now.” Zoe stared back at him, her eyes misted with emotion. “Perceptive, gorgeous and dangerous…a recipe for heartbreak.” “You‟re my woman, Zoe. I have never bitten another. Remember, my love, a woman chosen by bite is a mate for eternity.” “And a comrade by blood shall be loyal for all time,” she added with a smile. He smiled in return. “Exactly. You are my choice for eternity and I will protect you with my life.” This was the second time he‟d called her my love. His gentle confidence was comforting and sincere. She nuzzled his bare chest with her cheek. “I love you,” she barely whispered. Strong arms gathered her into a protective embrace. “You‟ve no idea how I‟ve longed to hear you say those words.” **** Booker‟s gaze moved around the room. The massage parlor had been closed for the night to be transformed into a makeshift gym. After sleeping all day upstairs with Zoe snuggled safely in his arms, he felt more than ready to meet her comrades and join her army. He made a subtle visual inspection of the eleven women present while Zoe and Paige rolled mats onto the floor. Each female appeared to be in fine physical condition and he wondered which of the members would be taking him on. “We have a fairly simple protocol that all members must adhere to,” Zoe began. “First is discretion. Members are not to reveal our existence to nonmembers. Only chapter leaders are permitted to approach potential inductees. Should a 89

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member wish to bring in another, she must seek approval from a leader. Secondly, combat is to be used in self-defense, situations of intervention or in extreme cases—to serve justice. If anyone is caught abusing their power, they will be banned. In such a case, the banned person will remain silent on her involvement with Night Brigade or suffer punishment. And finally, all potential members must sign our contract in blood and complete combat training.” Zoe motioned for Booker to approach as she stood in the center of the room. Holding out a clipboard with the specified document he was to sign, she said, “I need you to hold out your palm, please.” He gave her a wink and mischievous smile, then offered his hand. Zoe lifted a knife given her by Paige, then without hesitation, made a quick slice across his palm. Blood rushed to the surface and spilled onto the paper. She handed him a feather quill. “Sign your name.” Drawing from the small pool of blood congealing on the page, he quickly scribbled his signature with the tip of the quill. The expression on Zoe‟s face piqued his interest. She‟d become unusually flushed and began licking excess saliva from her lips. Her hands began to shake. He immediately recognized the symptoms. Her first craving had struck. The sight of his blood had evidently triggered the change taking place in her body. “Hannah, go ahead and warm up while I take Booker to the back and clean this up.” She pushed the clipboard into Paige‟s hands. “Will you lock this in the safe for me?” Paige nodded. “Oh fuck,” Zoe mumbled, bent over the sink in a small built-in kitchen. “What‟s wrong with me?” She had broken into a profuse sweat. Booker swept her into his arms, kissing the top of her head. “Your first craving. It can be a little rough, I know.” 90

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He offered her the still bleeding cut on his hand. “Take my blood, babe.” She shot him a peculiar look laced with fright, but lowered her head and took his blood nonetheless. Gingerly at first—then within seconds, her mouth hungrily sucked at his hand. The sensation he received took him off guard and he gripped the edge of the sink before leaning over her. “Holy shit,” he muttered as a wave of sensuality hit him hard. With one hand on her midriff and the other at her mouth, he practically wrapped himself around her body as she eagerly drank his blood. Nearly unbearable arousal mounted in his soul, blurring his vision. He wanted to take her right there, but summoned all his self-control. At last her trembling subsided and she slowly released his hand. They stood up to face each other. He wondered if he looked as shell-shocked as she did. In a silent exchange of thought, he shared her astonishment. “Looks like we‟re in for one hell of ride, angel.” He placed a lingering kiss on her lips. She gazed back him—glassy eyed—clearly unable to speak. After cleaning up, they walked back into the gym where Paige stood looking extremely curious. “Okay…” Zoe said when she‟d regained composure. “He‟s all yours, Hannah.” Then she took a seat on the floor, joined by Paige. A tall beauty with a long, blonde braid trailing down her back stood up to face him. She wore spandex pants and a matching top that covered only half her stomach. He noted her well-toned physique. “Let‟s see what you‟ve got, Booker,” challenged Hannah. He felt hesitant to attack this lovely female. Fighting women had never been his thing. Zoe had been the feistiest one he‟d ever tangled with and had she not been taken off 91

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guard, he wondered what a fair-fight might have been like with her. “Well if you won‟t attack, then I will,” Hannah said, then swung around with a high kick directed at his face. Though caught with his guard down, Booker deflected her strike with ease. She kept coming at him in an endless barrage of kicks and punches. The woman seemed tireless, yet Booker evaded all of her attempts to take him down. Twenty minutes after her first effort, she backed off. “Pretty good,” she said. “You‟ve proven that you have superb defense skills. Now let‟s see how you are as the aggressor.” “I don‟t want to hurt you,” he said. Hannah laughed with a toss of her head. “I am immune to pain. But if you cause me the slightest bit of discomfort and pin me, then you‟ll pass, because I am the best warrior in this pack.” Booker glanced at Zoe, who nodded in agreement. “Go on…impress us with your male prowess,” she taunted. He quickly sized up his opponent, contemplating whether he should go easy or show them his full potential. He didn‟t want to embarrass her yet Zoe‟s little taunt couldn‟t be ignored. Hannah‟s eyes never left him as he made a fast assessment, he could see that she was clever. One step in her direction and instantly she became poised to fight. Her moves impressed him though. The average male would not likely stand a chance defeating her. Even so, Booker subdued Hannah with relative ease. Actually she‟d been less of a challenge than Zoe who had given him quite a fight. Trying to pin Zoe had been no easy task. She was lightning fast and sharp. “Did I pass?” he asked with a casual smile, while holding her securely, her arms pinned behind her back. She winced slightly, then made one last attempt to trick 92

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him by throwing her weight, but he hardly flinched while bringing her back under control. Hannah let out a light laugh. “Yeah,” she conceded between heavy breaths. “You‟re good. I gave you my best and still sensed you were holding back.” “I won‟t hurt a lady,” he said with a modest smile. “I‟m not gonna let her pull shit on me either. I could have been rougher, but there was no point in that. You wanted to test my skills. I saw no reason to show off.” Hannah straightened her back in a stance of respect. She slightly bowed her head, so Booker returned the gesture before returning to sit with Zoe. “Wow,” Zoe whispered to him. “I‟ve never seen anyone defeat Hannah so easily. Not even a man. I am really impressed with how you graciously let her lose with dignity.” He leaned close for only her to hear. “To be honest, sugar, I had a tougher time getting you under control. You fight with vengeance.” “Must be all those years of pent up rage.” Zoe quietly laughed. “You up for some fun now?” He let the back of his hand glide alongside her face. “Always.” “Hey, ladies!” Zoe stood up. “The night is young. Anyone feel like going out to celebrate?” **** “How‟d you find this place?” Booker asked as they strode into a dimly lit nightclub. The words Leather Ladies flashed in neon above the door. “We have our connections.” Zoe led him to a table in the very back. “I spoke with Paige about Rider. She‟s very interested in meeting your friend.” 93

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“Cool, I‟ll send him a call.” “I‟ve never seen you with a cell phone,” she noted. “Don‟t need one.” He tapped his temple. “I‟ve got that telepathy thing going on.” “I often wondered about that as you seem to steal into my thoughts at times.” He leaned over and gave her a kiss. “It‟s not always easy with you. You‟re very guarded and have a strong will. I enjoy the challenge.” “I kinda sensed that.” Zoe reached up to pet the dark blond spirals hanging past his collar. “Can you dance? By the way you made love, I bet you can move to the music.” “Yeah, we can kill some time on the dance floor until Rider gets here.” “He‟s on his way?” Booker nodded while escorting her to a space in front of a stage where a rock band was cranking out some classic hits. “I contacted him after our night in the woods. I wanted him to meet you. He got into town early this evening.” “Awesome. I can‟t wait to meet your best friend and see how he and Paige get along.” “Does she know about Rider?” “Yes.” “Is she cool with the vampire thing now?” “She seems to be.” Zoe looked up at him and wondered when would be the best time to tell him about Paige‟s supernatural experience. She decided to let it wait. Her desire to enjoy him took precedence. They found a clearing on the floor to dance. Booker surprised her by moving into position behind. The band began jamming a nineties song with a strong bluesy backbeat. He spooned his body with hers. Firm hands rested toward the front of her hips as they began to move back and forth, up and down, she followed his lead. Leaning into him, 94

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she literally felt the music flooding her soul. He lowered his head so that their faces touched as they danced. His long hair fell wildly around her. She closed her eyes as his hips swayed with hers and strong hands swept over her body in the most sensual manner, barely touching her with feathery strokes. Yet those long, slender fingers expressed undeniable passion in the way they splayed possessively across the front of her. He had moves that simply blew her away. Winding her arms behind his neck, Zoe let her body mesh with his. The seductive rhythm and his amazing style lured her into a hazy state of mind. She definitely felt the music in his soul and wondered if he missed those days. “I‟m so in love with you, angel,” he murmured in her ear. A flutter of excitement filled her. With a slight upward turn of her head, their lips met for a heady kiss. She sucked his tongue as it caressed the inside of her mouth. In that moment, she never wanted to be anywhere else but in his arms—just like this—with the driving beat of the music keeping time to the tempo of her heart. He enveloped her through the entire song, dancing behind her, seducing her body, soul and mind. When that song ended, Booker turned her toward him for another round. This time they entered a session of slower dance. One hand swept up the center of her back while the other slid over her backside, pulling her hips tight against his. And still, her arms clung to his strong neck as they swayed with their bodies pressed together. Lights from the stage enhanced the captivating sparkle in his eyes, drawing her in until she became utterly spellbound, unable to look away. His every move flowed into the next as he lured her into a highly suggestive dance with never more than an inch of space between them. “I want to make love with you,” he spoke low and soft in her ear, sending chills over her skin. 95

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Zoe was too breathless to speak. He‟d truly swept her into his world. The song ended and as smoothly as he‟d danced, he whisked her into the shadows and out a rear exit. Staring up at him, she didn‟t resist as he backed her toward his parked Harley. “How about straddling me for a change?” Booker invited with a teasing wink. Snowed under by his powerful allure, she watched intently as he undid the fly to his jeans and slid them down far enough to release his cock. Then he reached for her waist and proceeded to remove her jeans, then her panties. With no awkwardness, they climbed into position on his gleaming black machine—he with his back against the handle bars— she facing him with her legs wrapped around his bare waist. His impressive erection slid into her with ease, delivering a rush of instant pleasure. “Feel good?” he purred while moving inside her. “Ah, yeah…” She smiled back at him. “You can scream this time. I know you held back during our first time because of others in the house.” He gripped her hips and thrust deep, his eyes never left hers. “I held back a bit, too.” “Wow…if you were holding back, then I can‟t wait to feel everything you‟ve got.” He sighed long and slowly with an easy smile, watching her with each drive of his sex into hers. She felt mesmerized and couldn‟t look away as he tantalized her into bliss. The sensations he created were unbelievable. “I can feel every inch of your hot, wet pussy gripping my cock. Just hang on tight, angel, and I will rock your world.” He pulled her head down for a delicious kiss, then said, “Let me reposition you for one hell of a ride.” Zoe consented with an agreeable smile as he pulled out, 96

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then eased her around so that she still straddled him only now he faced her back. Feeling him slide into her from behind was exhilarating. She gripped the seat of his bike with both hands and braced her knees on the leather as he moved in and out. Slowly at first until she balanced herself, then he increased the pace. “Ah yes…” She softly moaned. “Faster, deeper, fuck me hard, baby.” His hands slid beneath her shirt, pushed her bra up, then caressed each breast, teasing the nipples with skilled fingers. She pushed back against him with each thrust to feel the raw male power between her legs, pulsing, driving and tormenting her with insatiable hunger for more. He‟d leaned into her to gain ultimate penetration. Glancing down, she noticed his feet firmly on the ground as he straddled the bike while fucking her with intensity never felt before. His hands dropped to her hips, holding her steady while driving hard. Heavy breathing swirled around her. She felt his power, his need—his fire. “C‟mon, sugar, let yourself go,” he urged. He slid two fingers into the wet folds just above her opening to stroke the hard bud throbbing for release. “Ohhh fuck!” she cried out. Her head dropped forward as a wicked climax seized her. “Yes! Yes! Yes! Oh, baby, fuck yes!” Tremors ripped through her, she could barely catch her breath as he continued fingering her clit while thrusting that awesome cock deeper each time. “Angel…” His voice trailed off as he sucked in a few sharp breaths seconds before his release filled her with scorching heat. “Baby, baby.” He wrapped himself around her, holding her close as their bodies shook with an indescribable orgasm. **** 97

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Zoe lolled on the grass, panting for breath. A cool night mist covered the ground. Booker lay over her, gazing down in adoration. “You didn‟t hold back,” she said in a soft voice. “And you did scream.” He grinned with a wink.

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Chapter Five

“S

till every bit the rebel, I see,” a dark haired man said to Booker when he and Zoe returned to their table. She assumed this man at their table must be the elusive Rider. “Hey, buddy.” “How‟s it going?” the man asked, standing up to greet them. He and Booker clasped one another‟s forearms in a friendly gesture. “Rider…this is my Zoe,” Booker said with obvious pride. “Well hello there, beautiful.” Rider smiled charmingly. His dark eyes shone with interest. “Hello,” Zoe said. “I‟ve heard a lot about you.” They sat down around the table. Zoe couldn‟t help but notice Rider‟s good looks and instant charisma. Long, chocolate colored curls framed his ruggedly handsome face and hung way past his collar like Booker‟s. She couldn‟t tell if his eyes were brown or black under the dim lights, but they carried an extremely dark hue that enhanced his unique appeal. He still wore his leather riding jacket over a black shirt and faded blue jeans. “I haven‟t had time to catch up with my friend, but he did send me a message that he‟d found you and planned to keep you. Looks like his mission was a success,” Rider told her. “She‟s one of us now,” Booker added. Rider stared at her with arched brows. “By bite or by 99

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blood?” “Bite of course.” Booker laughed as if Rider had posed a ridiculous question, then gently moved her long hair to one side. “For eternity. Surely you don‟t think I‟d have her any other way.” “Just checking.” Rider laughed. “Congrats on that…to both of you. And welcome to our world, Zoe.” “Thanks.” She was surprised by his straightforward manner, but liked it very much. He and Booker seemed close like brothers and she liked that as well. As if on cue, Paige approached the table. “Zoe, where have you been hiding?” Zoe grinned sheepishly. “Uh…Booker wanted to show me his bike.” Paige tilted her head with a perplexed look for a moment, then her face lit up with an enlightened smile. “Oh.” “You‟ve been holding out on me, Booker,” said Rider. “Two gorgeous women and it took you how long to call me?” Booker signaled the waitress for some drinks while laughing at Rider‟s comment. “Hey, I contacted you in fair time. Rider, say hello to Paige, she‟s one of Zoe‟s sisters.” Rider got to his feet and pulled out a chair. “Please join us.” “Thank you.” Paige took a seat. The four of them made small talk until everyone seemed better acquainted. Zoe could tell that Paige found Rider quite appealing, and he appeared smitten with her as well. The newly introduced couple hit the dance floor a few times and grew quite cozy with each other as the hours passed. Zoe couldn‟t recall the last time she‟d had this much fun and wished the night would never end. However, morning would usher in a fresh day and they had unfinished business with Travis and company. 100

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“I‟ll be right back, baby.” Zoe leaned over and placed a delicate kiss on Booker‟s lips. “I must use the ladies‟ room.” She glanced back before rounding the corner. Flying high on Booker‟s love, she sang to herself while freshening up. The dark blue liner around her eyes had smudged, so she applied a fresh coat of makeup she‟d borrowed from Paige, dabbed a bit of shine on her lips and finger-combed her hair. Booker‟s actions tonight had been nothing short of mind-blowing. First the incredible dancing, then the impulsive sexual romp on his Harley. I knew he had moves, she thought, smiling to herself while exiting the restroom. Prior to reaching the entryway that led back into the main area, she spotted a shadow on the wall. Immediately she swung around, certain that someone lurked behind her. Standing motionless, prepared to fight, Zoe peered down the corridor, searching for any sign of trouble. Then, without warning, a thick cloth covered her nose and mouth. Before she could make another move or utter a sound, everything went black. **** Booker scanned the club. Zoe had taken too long. A foreboding sensation crept into his soul. “Trouble has arrived.” He gave Rider a nod and they hastily made their way through the crowd. The odor of chloroform stung his nose when Booker entered the corridor toward the ladies‟ room. Rider had gone off in the opposite direction. “Fuck!” He slammed a fist into the wall, then raced out the back door. Rider caught up at their parked bikes. “They got her?” “I‟m going after them. Those mother-fuckers are gonna 101

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pay this time.” “I thought those dudes were friends of yours.” “So did I.” Booker half-growled and half-sighed. “Had I known they were going to team with Mott, I‟d not have taken Zoe there. I was never gonna leave her, just wanted Mott to fork over some cash to the guys. Something isn‟t right down there. Zoe suspects that Travis and Mott worked together. I had the same thought when Travis claimed someone sold him out. If Mott believes that Zoe has her own biker group, he‟ll want control of them, no doubt.” “I‟m coming with you,” Rider said. Booker shot him a firm look. “They had to be watching and waiting to catch Zoe off guard. Maybe you should stay with Paige. Whoever was spying now knows she is friends with Zoe and I‟m sure that‟s information Mott wants.” “You shouldn‟t go in there alone.” “Unless they have a freezer full of swordfish, I‟ll be fine.” Rider held back a laugh out of sheer concern under the circumstances. Booker hadn‟t meant to jest, but he rarely lost his cool. “Did you remember to bring the bottle?” “Yeah.” Rider lifted the ancient relic from his saddlebag and gave it a shake. “Stronger than ever since we added our blood to the mix.” “Good.” Booker began a thorough inspection of his bike to be sure no tampering had occurred. “Zoe said that Paige seems on board. Bite or blood, that‟s between you and Paige. But see how many of those kick-ass females would like to join our world. They are the coolest group of women I‟ve ever met.” “What do you have in mind?” “I joined Zoe‟s biker group. Once I get her back, we‟re going to summon the troops and take Flaming Steel down for good.” 102

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“Is her group that large? Can they handle a battle of that magnitude?” “Not as large as Steel, but with the right enhancement, numbers won‟t matter,” Booker replied. “Can you think of anything more terrifying than a massive group of angry female vampires? I‟d not want to be against them, for sure.” Rider nodded knowingly. “Go get your woman.” He tucked the bottle back into hiding, locked his saddlebag, then placed the key into his pocket. A cloud of dust rose up behind Booker as he sped off into the distance. **** Now that their enemies had located them, it was time to get the women back into hiding until Rider sorted the situation. He didn‟t doubt their ferocity as Booker never embellished the truth. However, they were still human and as already proven by Flaming Steel, even the toughest soldiers could be caught off guard. Dawn would soon arrive. He felt best to escort the ladies of Night Brigade back to their hideout under the cover of dark. Paige met him at the door when Rider walked into the club. “Booker went after Zoe, didn‟t he?” “Yeah and he wants me to keep watch over your group. I think you and I have some decisions to make even though we‟ve just met.” “I understand,” Paige said. “We are tough, but not foolish. They‟ve caught Zoe by surprise twice now—” “Let‟s not give those deviants too much credit,” Rider interjected. “Had Booker not helped Travis, I doubt Steel would have ever seen Zoe the first time. There‟s more at play here than we initially thought. One thing seems certain, Mott wants Zoe. This whole ordeal has been about his 103

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twisted obsession with her and possibly gaining control of her biker friends as well.” “Why would Mott want to take over Night Brigade?” “To own Zoe,” Rider replied. “Mott never lets a woman go unless he‟s done with her.” “You don‟t think Travis is behind all this?” Rider shook his head. “Nah, this reeks of Mott, the slimy bastard…wait here.” He dashed back to his bike to retrieve the bottle, then rejoined Paige. “Best keep this with me in case any of those pricks are still lurking.” He placed an arm around Paige‟s shoulders as she looked strangely at the bottle in his hand. “I‟ve seen that before…this feels so odd.” “This?” He held the bottle out with a questioning look. “Y-yes.” Her eyes met his and he saw a mix of fear and wonder sweep through her lovely green eyes. “When Zoe placed my fingers on her neck…where Booker had bitten her. I had the most eerie experience.” “C‟mon, babe, let‟s get your crew back into hiding so we can talk.” **** Paige felt some anxiety over bringing another man before the group so soon. Yet, their situation had risen to the highest alert status. Their leader had been taken, only this time not by a man who sought to protect her. A call had gone out to the other chapters, asking everyone to head toward Oklahoma City. Paige didn‟t want to move farther from Zoe and their current location was practically dead center for the others. She knew within a day everyone available would arrive. Zoe had gained tremendous respect among her pack for the dedication and hard work she‟d given them since starting the group. Paige had never met 104

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anyone more driven than Zoe and she loved her dearly. Mott‟s actions came as a shock. He‟d done a good job of fooling them all—except perhaps Booker and Rider. They seemed to have deeper intuition where Mott was concerned. Strangely enough, Paige trusted them and they‟d only been acquainted a short time. The two immortals had given no reason for speculation other than their acclaimed status as vampires, which Paige found more fascinating with each passing moment. Rider definitely carried astounding charisma, much like Booker. However, she enjoyed Rider‟s outgoing personality over Booker‟s reserved character. No doubt Booker was indeed gorgeous, but his dark aura intimidated her. He felt almost dangerous at times—a perfect match for Zoe. A crowd of women had gathered in the massage parlor by the time Paige walked into the room, followed by Rider. Members from the closer chapters had begun filtering in. Everyone quieted as Paige prepared to address them. “Thank you for coming so quickly,” she said. “We are in a highest alert level situation. Zoe has been snatched from our ranks and a new member has already set out to rescue her. I have a few issues to discuss. First, I have another new member I‟d like to bring on board.” She paused to allow a moment for objections, then continued when none surfaced. “I know this is highly unusual for us, but Booker is a powerful ally…more than you can imagine…and I see no reason why his best comrade would be any less. If you recall, we had passed the motion to add male members on an individual basis if an excellent prospect came along.” Hannah nodded toward Rider, who stood off to the side, noticeably interested in their meeting. “Is he your choice?” “Yes, this is Rider. He has been Booker‟s closest friend for a very long time. Zoe had foreseen this day when we‟d have to face other biker gangs. All of our assignments have been 105

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individual undercover cases until now. I have reason to believe that the new leader of Flaming Steel wants to take control of Night Brigade.” “That would destroy us. The last thing we want is to be controlled by a dominant male,” one of the ladies stated. “And that is one of the reasons we have trained so hard. We have a battle ahead of us, girls.” Paige looked around the room to see the determined faces of her fellow bikers. “You know I‟m not one to make hasty decisions, but I would like to get Rider inducted immediately. Like Zoe had said at our last chapter meeting in New York, having a couple strong males in the pack will make others take us more seriously. Booker and Rider have something extraordinary to offer Night Brigade…I would like you to consider this please.” Murmuring traveled around the room. Paige waited patiently. After a short interval, Hannah stepped forward. “If Rider signs the contract and proves he can fight, then we will accept him. We have confidence in your judgment.” Paige clasped her hands together in delighted relief. “Great!” **** Zoe tried to raise her hand to massage her aching head, but in her foggy state of mind, she hadn‟t realized that her hands and feet had been secured together with nylon twine. She lay curled on her side, barely able to move. Her gaze crept around the room. Where am I? Then she recognized the musty stench of a warehouse and the smell of stale smoke. She could hear what sounded like engines below, not motorcycles but another type of machine. Perhaps heavy equipment, she thought. A beam of sunlight flitted along the floor, causing 106

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Zoe to look up to where she saw a thick glass block window. Oh shit. I must be back in Flaming Steel’s camp. She wriggled against the rope, fighting to loosen it and gain more range of motion. A couple inches gave way and she managed to straighten her back just a little. She recalled walking out of the ladies‟ room, seeing shadows on a wall and someone covering her mouth before passing out. Now this is a real kidnapping. Booker hadn’t bound me so severely when he had taken me. A feeling of dread deluged her. Booker…I know you are coming for me…maybe you’re already here. She believed wholeheartedly that Booker had been betrayed as well—he by his friends—she by her ex-fiancé. Clearly they had been set up. Initially she‟d assumed Travis had masterminded her abduction for monetary gain. Yet, this felt extreme—even for Travis. Zoe doubted he‟d go to this extent. No, someone more powerful is calling the shots and if Travis is a coconspirator, then he’s in way over his head. Only one other person came to mind—Mott. But why? She‟d never given him cause for doubt concerning her commitment to him. Had he sensed me getting cold feet? She understood how he could be angry now, after witnessing the connection between her and Booker. However, his original plot to take control of Flaming Steel had nothing to do with Booker. When she‟d accused Mott of working with Travis, there had been plenty of reticent expressions among everyone present. Has Mott decided I am a loose end that needs to be dealt with? Booker‟s story about Jade flashed through her mind, inducing a wave of panic. She choked back the rising fear. Oh no! Mott knows that I’m aware of his guilt. He must intend on getting rid of me, too! Tears sprung to her eyes, unable to bear the thought of never seeing Booker again. Zoe had no idea of when her transformation to vampire would complete, and she didn‟t feel enough time had passed for her to have 107

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become immortal. She racked her brain until the pounding in her head forced her to relent. No other reason came to mind as to why Mott would drag her back here unless he sought to force her into marriage. Will he blackmail me into submission as he did with Flaming Steel? No… She sighed. That makes no sense at all. Surely he plans to get me out of the way. He’s a filthy, lying drug dealer who already killed one woman. I highly doubt he cares about anyone except himself. The steel door swung open. Her head jerked up—startled. In walked Trey. “Good, you‟re awake.” He yanked her to her feet. “Mott wants to see you.” “Well I don‟t want to see him,” she spat, digging her boot heels into the floor in an attempt to stop him from dragging her out the door. “Tough shit. You‟re coming with me.” He tossed her over his shoulder with disturbing ease, making her feel helpless. Even so, Zoe thrashed about, doing her best to get some kind of hold on him. At one point, she almost managed to tangle the nylon around his neck, but failed. She didn‟t quit fighting until he dropped her into a chair before Mott—in that same makeshift office with the ugly metal desk. “Zo-so!” Mott greeted. “You‟ve come back to me.” He pulled a chair up and sat before her, then nodded for Trey to leave. “Sure you want to send your bodyguard away?” she snarled. A broad grin curved his mouth. “I can handle you. Now play nice, love, or I may have to get angry.” He reached out to run one well-manicured finger along her cheek. She snapped at him with her teeth. “You won‟t take me without a fight.” He looked somewhat perplexed. “Take you where?” “Out! Like you did to Jade!” 108

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“Oh, bloody hell. Don‟t tell me you still believe that ludicrous story!” He let out a mocking laugh. “I have no desire to hurt you, pet.” Her brow furrowed. “What do you want then? You got control of Flaming Steel to run your drug business. Using me as a catalyst in your sordid plan was quite clever by the way.” “And you were pretty sharp to figure it out so quickly.” He leaned back and casually lit a cigarette. “That‟s what I‟ve always loved about you, Zo-so. You think fast on your feet and know how to keep a secret.” “What are you babbling about?” His smug demeanor annoyed her. Without warning, his disposition became vicious. “Don‟t play coy with me! I want to know who you ride with!” She felt her blood run cold. How does he know? I’ve never told anyone about Night Brigade until just a day ago. Had Booker been the ultimate tool after all? Seducing me into trusting him so that he could report back to Mott everything he knows? Are all three men in this together? Is it remotely possible that Travis could be smart enough to enlist the aid of Mott and Booker to manipulate me? Questions flooded her mind, making it race. Is this Travis’s grand finale to destroy me for good? Could my ex have found a clue to my secret life? Is this why Booker sensed I rode with someone? Did Travis plant that seed and use Booker to trick me? Had I been careless enough to leave Travis a sign? Her head throbbed madly at the endless possibilities. Still, she remained stoic. Mott leaned closer. “I bet you are asking yourself a lot of questions about now.” His tone of voice was sinister. “Probably wondering how I know when your ex didn‟t even have a clue.” Okay…so that rules out Travis. She took a deep breath to 109

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steady her nerves. If Travis didn’t tell him, then the only way he could know is if…no! No! No! No! She refused to entertain the notion that Booker could be callous enough to seduce her only to betray her. His love felt too real. Maybe he isn’t even a vampire and I have been his fool. Her hand automatically reached for the bite mark on her neck, but stopped short because of the twine. “What thoughts are racing through that lovely head of yours now? Did you take me for a fool? I make it my business to know everything about the women I date.” “I don‟t know what you‟re talking about.” She glared into his icy green eyes to call his bluff in case that‟s what this was. “Damn it, Zoe! I know you bloody well ride with someone! Now who the fuck is it? Do you want me to beat it out of you?” He leapt up and threw his chair across the room. “Or maybe drugging you would be more effective.” Inwardly terrified, she gathered all her courage to remain calm. “Why are you so hell-bent on this matter? So what if I had ridden with a few people before I met you. I never tried to hide my love for riding from you…only Travis…and you knew that. What is your problem?” She did her best to sound braver than she felt. He walked over to the desk, opened a drawer and lifted a syringe filled with clear liquid. Her panic became nearly impossible to hide, yet somehow she stifled the urge to cry. “I saw them.” His eyes glimmered eerily as he approached. “That day you backed out of accompanying me to the movie premier. Do you remember—the one featuring my band on the soundtrack?” Zoe thought back. She recalled breaking their date to meet with her group. Yet, he‟d never said another word about it so she had assumed he‟d let it go. 110

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“Why did you back out of that date?” Mott asked, as if honing in. “I believe your excuse was that you hadn‟t been feeling well.” “Is that was this is about? You‟re holding a grudge because of one disappointment that happened weeks ago?” “Don‟t hedge the subject,” he growled. “I drove past your apartment on the way to the premier and saw several bikes parked in back that had never been there before.” Finally the facts began to make sense. Mott had suspected all along that she‟d been hiding something from him. And now he wanted control. His takeover of Flaming Steel served a deeper motive. Obviously he hoped getting inside the biker world would enable him to uncover her group. “So what you meant to say is that you drove around my apartment to spy on me when you should have been on the other side of town.” He let out a grunt, then kicked a trashcan into the wall. “Damn you! Just out with it already!” He held the syringe up in full view. “Tell me who you ride with, Zo-so…or I‟ll send you on a little ride of my own.” She stared at the syringe—watched in terror as he drew the liquid up, then swallowed hard. “Never.” “You‟d rather die than let me meet your friends?” he asked with arched brows, as if impressed by her refusal to surrender. There was no point continuing to deny that she rode with a pack. He‟d seen them. Her only option at this point was to protect her group from this evil man. “If that‟s what it takes,” she replied with narrowed eyes. “I‟d never sell out my friends like Travis did, just so you can swoop in and make another power play. They will never belong to you…ever!” Mott sighed and rolled his eyes. “Oh hell…I had hoped this would go a in a different direction. That you and I could 111

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work together and establish a huge enterprise. Like I said, I‟ve always admired your intelligence and discretion. You‟d make a fabulous partner.” He took a step closer, then gripped her forearm. “Looks like plan B will have to suffice. Once your secret friends discover that I‟ve—how shall we put it—sent you on a permanent vacation, they will surface to seek revenge on Flaming Steel for killing their leader.” Dear God! He’s going to frame them for murder yet to flush out Night Brigade! The depth of his malevolence astounded her. He‟d covered all his bases. Zoe threw herself to the floor in a flash of panic. Mott dropped to his knees and they wrestled. Even with her hands and feet secured, she put up a vicious fight as he struggled to pin her arm to the floor. “C‟mon, Zoe…” He grunted as they fought. “Just make a deal and everyone will be fine.” His heavy breathing filled her ears. “Why must you be so fucking headstrong? Turn me on to your friends.” “Never!” She bit down on his hand as it passed her mouth. “Fuck this…” he groaned. His body slammed hers into the floor. She winced in pain yet refused to cry out. Suddenly a stinging sensation shot into her inner arm—then darkness.

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Chapter Six A sharp pain raced through his body—as if someone had

pierced him with multiple swords all at once. He bowed his head to focus. A vision of Zoe lying on the floor in an empty room flashed through his mind. Hold on, angel…grab hold of me. Having ridden hard for two hours without a single stop, Booker knew they couldn‟t have gained much of a lead. After dismounting his parked Harley, he walked straight toward the barbed wire fence encompassing the glass warehouse. “I don‟t think you should be here, man.” Holt blocked his way through the gate. Grabbing the heavyset man by the throat, Booker lifted him off the ground with ease. “Who‟s gonna stop me?” He released him with a hard shove, sending Holt skidding across the gravel drive. From the corner of his eye, Booker caught a few members watching from a distance, none of whom seemed brave enough to interfere. He stalked into the building and up the metal stairway. Trey met him at the top. “Don‟t even try.” Booker gave him a warning look, with tense muscles prepared to strike. “We didn‟t know it would go down like this.” Trey stood firm. “Mott rode in one day, said he knew the girl was coming here and if we didn‟t bring him on as leader, he‟d 113

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hand us over to the law. Travis told us he only needed a hideout until Mott paid up. Nobody knew they were in it together. We sent Travis packing, man, once we realized he sold us out.” Booker swung around with a fast, left hook to Trey‟s jaw, knocking him clear off his feet. “It‟s a little fucking late now, isn‟t it?” He turned toward the office on the far side and picked up his pace. With one hard kick, the door blew open. Mott jumped up with a start from behind the desk. “Where is she? What the fuck have you done with Zoe?” “You‟re too late. Zoe chose not to cooperate so I‟ve relieved her of her duties.” Mott sneered. “Permanently.” Booker‟s gut tightened, making him want to retch. Zoe was barely breathing. He felt her struggling to hold on yet quickly slipping away. He pointed a finger at Mott. “I‟ll be back for you.” With that, he whipped around and out the door, breaking into a run to find the room he‟d seen in his vision. Some of the guys had emerged with obvious curiosity, but not one made a move to slow him down. Nor did any offer information on her whereabouts. He cursed them under his breath, vowing they‟d pay for their treachery. When none of the rooms on the upper level revealed Zoe‟s location, he raced back down the steps, drawing on his heightened senses. He utilized deep concentration, pulling from within his soul, until the faint scent of her uniquely sweet, floral perfume rose to meet him—then he followed it. Upon rounding a corner near the rear of the building, he spotted the door he‟d seen. He couldn‟t get there fast enough. With one strong blow, he kicked down the door. “Ah, baby…” Booker rushed inside and slid to her on his knees. “No…” He scooped her limp body into his arms. “Come back to me…you‟re my angel, don‟t you know?” He spoke in soft desperation, “I‟ll never let you go.” 114

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She didn‟t appear to be breathing so Booker administered mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. But he feared his arrival had come a few seconds too late. He looked upward briefly to shake tears from his eyes, then resumed his attempts to breathe life back into her soul. After another long, intense succession of mouth-to-mouth, he pressed his ear to her chest. “I won‟t go on without you,” he whispered. “Angel eyes…don‟t let go.” Her chest heaved as she drew a heavy breath, then began to cough. Booker eased her onto her side as she retched, bringing up nothing but liquid. Tenderly he stroked her hair as she spewed the poison from her body. She began to tremble violently so he bent over her, cradling her against his chest until the vomiting ceased. “Please…” he heard the despair crack in his voice. “Don‟t leave me.” Gently he turned her toward him, gazing down at her face—dabbing her mouth with the hem of his shirt. She had grown dreadfully pale and though she‟d begun to breathe, her eyes still remained closed and her body flaccid. Time seemed to halt as he stayed there on the floor, rocking her in his embrace. For the first time in his life, he felt at a loss as the fear of losing her washed over him. He realized that Zoe‟s vampire blood had not yet matured enough to make her immortal. But mine has. He pulled a switchblade from a clip on the upper part of his boot concealed beneath the denim. Without wavering, Booker slit his wrist, then sucked in a mouthful of blood, but didn‟t swallow. He leaned over her, lifting her upper body toward his face. His lips met hers—they felt alarmingly cold. Slowly he let his blood trickle into her mouth, praying she had enough strength to swallow. Kiss me, angel…take me from my darkness into your light. 115

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She swallowed reflexively, drop by drop, until no blood remained in his mouth. His lips remained on hers if only to return warmth to those sweet, sweet lips. He kissed her delicately—pleadingly. Several agonizingly long minutes later Zoe began to stir. Her lashes fluttered and her breathing became steadier each time she inhaled. When her arms slid around his neck, he lifted his head just far enough to look at her. “I heard you,” she said with a weak smile. Her voice sounded strained, but color began returning quickly to her skin, indicating she had come back to him. Overcome by emotion, Booker buried his face in her hair, clinging to her with everything inside. “I‟ll never let you go,” he whispered. She tightened her hold about his neck and he felt strength reenter her body. They clung to each other in silence for what seemed like a long time. He refused to take her on his bike until certain she could survive the ride regardless of where they were. If anyone dared enter the room while he tended his mistress, they would surely die. Her dainty hands stroked his hair and he drew her closer, wrapping himself around her. “Take me out of this place,” she murmured in a slightly raspy voice. Slowly he raised his head to see her staring back at him with an expression of love that stirred the depths of his soul. She reached up and touched his face, brushing the moistness from his cheeks without a word. Nothing had ever moved him as she did. Her grace offset any awkwardness he might have felt during this intensely vulnerable moment. “Can you ride?” he asked, gently sweeping dampened hair from her beautiful face. “If you hold me tight…yeah, I can make it.” They gazed at each other for a silent exchange of 116

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profound love, then he stood up with her in his arms. She held on tightly as he carried her out. A crowd had gathered outside the cold, musty room. Booker looked around the circle of faces—evident with regret. They had betrayed him and knew judgment day would come. Even with that knowledge, not a single soul made a move in his direction. An unspoken reverence emanated from the group as he walked out with Zoe in his arms. Where Mott had run off to was anyone‟s guess. But for now, Mott could cower. Booker‟s top priority rested in his arms. His woman needed to complete her transformation into his world—then they would return to this camp with a vengeance. **** “You good to go?” he asked, straddling his bike. He‟d placed Zoe in front this time, facing him with her arms and legs locked around his body. “Yeah…” She glanced up at the sky. The sun had not yet reached its highest. What a morning, she thought, and laid her head on Booker‟s shoulder. “Let‟s go.” He revved the engine, then headed onto the road. No longer did she feel afraid. Mott had nearly killed her and still they walked out of the compound without a fight. Flaming Steel would regret the day they‟d accepted payment from Mott, this she knew by the way her vampire lover had come to her rescue. Booker could not be stopped and those bastards knew it. The taste of his blood lingered in her mouth, covering the unpleasantness from retching. She snuggled closer to inhale his scent—the intoxicating blend of leather and his sensual cologne. How he managed to smell utterly irresistible in any situation amazed her. The engine growling—the wind in her hair—his blood in 117

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her soul felt invigorating. By the time they arrived in Oklahoma City, Zoe felt amazing improvement in her physical condition. “You‟re blood is powerful,” she said when his bike came to a stop behind the massage parlor. She looked around, surprised to see the parking lot packed with motorcycles. “Looks like Paige called out the troops.” “Rider is with them. We felt a little reinforcement might be a good idea.” He lifted her from the bike. “Are you strong enough to walk?” Zoe nodded. “I‟m feeling better.” Then she turned to him, looking up at his gorgeous face. “Thank you.” A charming smile swept over his strong facial features, softening them for an instant. “You‟re kidding, right? You have no idea how lost I‟d be without you.” “In that dark place…” She paused meditatively. “…I heard you before you found me. I heard you say, hold on, angel…grab hold of me. And everything you said from the time you came into the room reached into my spirit. I was so cold. I felt suspended between worlds and didn‟t think I‟d survive. I fought so hard to grab hold of you, but kept slipping away. Then you brought me back with your kiss. Each drop of blood that trickled down my throat helped me hang on.” Tears slid down her cheeks as she fought the urge to break down and cry. “You literally saved me with your love.” Booker framed her face between gentle hands, using his thumbs to brush away her tears. “I felt your pain. Saw you lying in that room barely alive. When you weren‟t in Mott‟s office, I ran through the warehouse until I picked up your scent. Those words you first heard, I thought them when I was on my way to find you.” He glanced at his wrist and saw that the cut had already healed. “When your wounds heal instantly, then we will know that your blood has 118

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matured.” She slid into his strong arms for a warm embrace before they went inside to meet the others. He held her tight and kissed the top of her head, rubbing his cheek against her hair. The heat from his body felt comforting. “Guess it‟s time to let everyone know we are back,” she said. With one hand at the small of her back, Booker escorted her up the steps and into the brick building. “Zoe!” Paige‟s expression revealed that Zoe must look as bad as she felt. “Thank God! Are you okay?” “I‟m getting there.” She offered Paige her best effort to smile. “Aw, my sister, you‟ve been through hell.” Paige reached out and hugged her. “We were so worried, but Booker left us with advice to stay put.” “You did right,” Zoe said. “We need to be fully prepared before going to war against them.” “Rider joined our ranks.” Paige couldn‟t hide her excitement. “He signed the contract and passed the combat skills test with ease…as if we were surprised.” “That‟s great news. Have you taken the leap yet?” “Not yet. I really couldn‟t think about anything except you. Do you know why they took you again? Rider said something about Mott wanting control of Night Brigade.” “Yeah,” Zoe replied. “Mott had been spying on me in New York. He saw us meeting and figured out I rode with another group. When I refused to sell out, he tried to kill me.” “Oh my god! What on earth did he hope to accomplish in doing that?” “He presumed my group would seek revenge against Flaming Steel, thus flushing Night Brigade out so he could make a power play.” 119

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A worried look traversed Paige‟s face. “Why does he so desperately want our group?” Zoe let out a sardonic laugh. “He admired my discretion and said I‟d make a great partner. I guess Mott felt someone who could keep such a secret, even while I was married, would be an asset to his enterprise, as he called it.” They meandered into the main room. “How did you both get away?” “I wouldn‟t have made it out if not for Booker.” Zoe looked up at him affectionately. “He found me left for dead and brought me back to life.” Paige‟s gaze shifted to Booker, clearly awestruck by him. “If we wanna take down Flaming Steel, the women should consider enhancing their powers. Mott is not to be underestimated,” Zoe told her. Rider approached with a relieved smile. “Good to see both of you. How are you, Zoe?” “Good to see everyone,” Zoe responded. “I‟m doing better, thanks.” “Looks like you could use some rest, beautiful.” Rider placed a friendly hand on her shoulder. “And something to eat,” she added. “I can send one of the girls next door to the pub,” offered Paige. “What would you like?” “A nice, thick, rare steak.” “Zoe! I thought you hated red meat.” “Rough morning.” Zoe half-grinned, feeling rather peculiar. Gradually the other members made their way over to her, each expressing their sincere relief that she‟d returned safely. Some of her closer comrades hugged her, others clasped hands with her. When all had extended a proper greeting, Paige pulled Zoe aside. “Rider brought that bottle I saw when touching your 120

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neck,” she whispered. Excitement laced her voice. “Really?” Zoe was intrigued. “I wanna see it.” She turned her attention to Booker. “Paige had a brief vision when I made her touch your bite mark on my neck. She saw the bottle and you and Rider drinking from it.” “Fascinating,” Booker remarked. They sidled over to Rider. “I heard you brought something special,” said Zoe. A broad grin lit his face as Rider pulled a flask-type bottle with ornate carving from his inner coat pocket. “This perhaps?” The bottle looked very ancient—not made of clear glass as a modern wine container. But the glass was milky white, like bone with intricate designs etched into the mold. Zoe found its appearance extremely fascinating. “What‟s in it?” “I thought you knew.” “You mean there is still some of the old vodka in there?” “Oh yeah, Booker and I only needed one swallow. Potent shit,” Rider boasted. “And it‟s been enhanced,” Booker added. “To ensure the longevity and potency of the cocktail.” Zoe reached out to run her fingers over the glass. “Your blood is in here.” Rider‟s eyes widened. “Wow…you feel that, huh? Mine‟s in there, too.” “Awesome.” Zoe affectionately traced the design, drawing hot looks from the men and a puzzled expression from Paige, who clearly didn‟t understand yet. She felt Rider‟s torment upon touching the bottle. He was hungry. “I‟ll send out for your meal, Zoe.” Paige went to walk away, but Rider stopped her. “Why don‟t you and I chat more about this cocktail, say, in private?” he suggested. 121

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Zoe had no doubt what Rider had on his mind. The sensuality released when she caressed the bottle had been obvious and the look of desire he cast her way hadn‟t gone unnoticed. She felt flattered that Rider found her appealing and hoped Paige would ease his inner turmoil. Paige smiled and lightly blushed. “As soon as I get Zoe her steak, we can go to my room.” “I can give Zoe better than steak,” Booker said. “How about we reconvene around dusk to get matters underway?” His gaze swept over all three of them. “Now if you‟ll excuse us.” Zoe felt her pulse quicken as he led her away.

Booker closed the door behind them as they walked into the bedroom reserved for their stay here. He pulled his shirt off while walking to the bed, then sprawled on his back with outstretched arms. Zoe crawled onto the foot of the bed and up between his legs. Without a word, her lips began kissing a path upward, starting below his sexy navel, over his tight abs and along the broad chest she loved resting against. His hands went to her hair, then one drifted to the back of her head when their lips met. Her body relaxed on top of his, savoring every hard curve. He kissed her deeply, holding her head as his tongue did a thorough exploration of her mouth. Slowly he guided her lips to his neck by turning his face to one side while his hands gently stroked the back of her hair. “Feed,” he said low and steady. Powerful hunger ripped through her. She filtered the long, silken spirals of his hair through her fingers before clutching it tightly with both hands. He arched his back while gripping her hips in a deliberate act of sexual innuendo. Her mouth began to water profusely seconds 122

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before she felt a peculiar tightening around her canine teeth. Sweeping her tongue along her upper lip, she was surprised to feel that her canines had lengthened somewhat. Booker ground his hips against hers, urging her on with physical stimulation. Closing her eyes, Zoe found the prominent vein in his neck and bit down. He groaned in open pleasure as his blood pulsed into her mouth. His blood tasted better than she‟d expected. Never having drunk blood, except from his hand, she had some minor reservations about how she‟d feel when this moment came. However, the more she took, the better he tasted and the more eagerly she drew on the wound in his neck. He started getting a bit crazy on her, tearing wildly at her clothes until she was naked. He‟d literally ripped them from her body in heated frenzy. “I‟m sorry, angel.” His voice was soft and caring. “I kinda lost control there. If you‟re not yet strong enough, we can stop.” She felt herself spiraling down the same path as his blood warmed her throat and stomach. Her hands dropped to his waist, grappling with the snap on his jeans. He helped by slipping them off, then he positioned her legs so that she straddled him. “No, it‟s okay…the more we do, the better I feel.” She shuddered. “I‟m on fire.” One strong hand pressed her head again toward his neck. “Then don‟t stop, sugar. Let me make you powerful.” Zoe resumed sucking his blood. Effortlessly Booker slid his erection deep inside, making her want to cry out. Yet, she wouldn‟t let him down. He was clearly getting off on her bite and the sudden longing to please her mate besieged her. They moved together in perfect unison, taking each other to a new realm of pleasure. He completed her in a way she‟d 123

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never dreamed possible. She wanted to absorb everything about this enthralling immortal. He opened his mind to her and she was completely snowed under by the level of emotion he released. Instinctively Zoe knew when she‟d fed long enough. Easing back, she caressed the wound with her tongue. They soared into ecstasy as their bodies consummated a deeper connection. “C‟mere.” He rolled her over without breaking stride while keeping her safely wrapped in those powerful arms. Zoe lay beneath him. Both were soaked in sweat as he continued joining with her again and again, thrusting his hard body into hers. Their lovemaking took on a desperate need to bond—an overwhelming intrinsic desire to mate on a higher level. Booker‟s teeth grazed her neck, then pierced her skin at the precise moment she climaxed, as if he‟d ordained the two acts to be simultaneous. She fought back the urge to scream, writhing and moaning under his spell. Euphoria swept her into another dimension of time when he peaked with her. “Mm…angel…” He groaned while pouring himself into her, filling her with liquid heat. Her body tensed as a final wave of pleasure washed over her, then she relaxed in his arms bathed in bliss. An amazing sensation of wellbeing enveloped her. They collapsed in each other‟s arms, panting for breath. “Are you feeling stronger, my love?” he murmured sweetly. “Much so…yes.” She tilted her chin upward to receive his tender kiss.

A light tap on the door drew Zoe from a heavenly sleep— soaring through the universe in a beautiful dream. Above the clouds, she‟d felt perfect peace. The earth had appeared 124

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so small and fleeting from her position among the stars. She wrapped a sheet around her, then padded across the room. “Hey, Paige,” she greeted sleepily upon opening the bedroom door. “Sorry to disturb you, but the Pennsylvania chapter rode in after you‟d gone to bed. They brought your bike and riding clothes.” She held out a small stack of folded garments and a set of keys. “Everyone is here now.” Zoe accepted the items gratefully. “Thank you so much, Paige, for taking care of everything.” Paige winked. “That‟s what sisters are for. You‟ve had a hell of a lot to deal with. I knew you‟d want your bike and some fresh clothes.” “Who drove my bike out?” “Hannah‟s daughter, Phoebe. I didn‟t think you‟d trust anyone else.” “Phoebe handles a bike well. I‟m glad she was available to help. Will she be going back to New York?” “Yeah. Hannah doesn‟t feel she‟s ready to fight…especially in this battle, so Phoebe left to fly back east.” “Okay, thanks again.” Zoe closed the door with a smile, then placed her clothes on a chair near the bathroom door. Paige had perfect timing as the jeans and tank top she‟d been dragging around in for the past two days had recently been ripped off her body. Booker appeared to be sleeping so Zoe slipped into the shower. He hadn‟t seen her look fresh since snagging her off the street in New York. A surge of excitement swept through her as she thought about riding again. She was anxious to get outside and give her bike a good going-over. After drying herself with a fluffy towel, she slid into string bikini panties and her black lace bra before pulling the black leather pants over her legs. She hopped about, tugging 125

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the skintight leather over her butt. Hard to squeeze into, but nothing compared to the feel of leather clinging to her like a second skin. She combed her wet hair, then stood before a small mirror on the wall and noticed that her hair had grown a few inches. While straightening the black camisolestyle top around her breasts and waist, from the corner of her eye, she caught Booker watching. “Wow,” he said. “Never thought when I first saw you that you were a biker. You looked way too refined.” She turned with a faint smile, flattered by the hunger in his eyes at her change in appearance. “I did my best to throw people off. But I made a serious mistake holding a meeting in my apartment. I should have driven down to PA.” “It wouldn‟t have made a difference.” Booker rolled onto his side, the bed sheet dropped far enough to reveal long, lean muscular legs. “Mott would have followed you or sent someone else to spy.” “I guess breaking my date with him was the kicker. I should have chosen a less significant event to ditch him, but we had waited long enough for all the chapter leaders‟ schedules to jive. I couldn‟t help that it fell on the same day as his premier.” Her gaze slid up Booker‟s legs with an appreciative sigh. “I didn‟t want to attend that boorish function anyway.” He gave her a beckoning nod. “Come on over here.” She sauntered to the edge of the bed. His hands raked up the back of her thighs. “Leather looks hot on you.” “What about you? Do you always wear jeans?” she asked, having some trouble concentrating on anything except his touch. “Mm-hm,” he murmured while sliding her top up to the edge of her bra. His lips trailed over her midriff, leaving a trail of succulent kisses in their wake. “Easier to move in.” Zoe sucked in a sharp breath as shivers prickled her skin. 126

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“And you certainly can move.” “You have some moves yourself,” he purred. “I wanna taste you in every way.” Still, the tantalizing kisses continued until she began to ache. His fingers began toying with the button at the waist of her pants. Sliding her hands into his thick hair, she closed her eyes, relishing the heated sensation he‟d induced. In slow, teasing fashion, he undid one snap at time. His lips inched lower as each button gave way and his hot breath caressed her lower abdomen. Suddenly another knock sounded on the door. “Get your ass outta bed,” Rider called from the other side. Then she heard him laugh. “It‟s almost dark, you two. Let‟s get these ladies on board.” Booker flopped back with a groan. Zoe let out a light laugh to shake off the sexual tension while buttoning her leather jeans. “Good timing, Rider,” Booker hollered back. “Go on then, we‟ll be down in a few.” He reached up and grabbed Zoe by the waist, pulling her on top of him. They shared a laugh, then a tender kiss before he gently pushed her off the bed. “You…best wait over there.” Booker pointed to a chair on the far side of the room. “And I will grab a shower.” Zoe feigned a frown, but didn‟t miss the chance to steal a glimpse at his naked body when he slid from under the sheet. Mercy! She placed a hand over her heart, unable to look away from her well-endowed man‟s anatomy. Booker gave her a spirited wink, brushed her cheek with the back of his hand, then strolled into the small bathroom.

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Chapter Seven The parlor was filled to near capacity when Zoe and Booker

made their way downstairs. Nearly a hundred women had crowded into the building, leaving standing room only. “I see why you hold your meetings at night. There‟s no room for customers.” “I‟m glad we bought this place instead of the hair salon next door,” Zoe said, looking over the pack. “This used to be one of those fitness centers. Paige and I felt setting up a massage parlor would be an excellent front. We kept it strictly legit and never offered services after business hours to avoid speculation by the locals. Paige came out here to head this chapter when I moved to New York.” “Go say hello.” He planted a light kiss on the top of her head. “I‟m sure your comrades would like to chat with you.” Booker again demonstrated class by meandering over to Rider, graciously giving her time to mingle with her comrades. Paige appeared a bit pallid when Zoe found her sitting in the kitchen area, drinking what looked like very dark tomato juice. “Are you feeling okay?” She sat down beside her at the table. “I drank the wine,” Paige confessed. “I mean the vodka mix. Wine…vodka…blood, it tasted rank, whatever it was.” “I didn‟t know it would kick in so fast. Is that blood 128

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you‟re drinking?” Paige nodded, nervously picking at her fingernails. “I picked it up at the butcher while you slept. Want some?” “No thanks, I‟m fine. Booker‟s blood is potent.” Zoe studied Paige curiously. “So you‟ve started feeling the transformation then.” “Yes…so have you, right? I noticed you looked rather ill when we cut Booker‟s palm.” “Yeah, I think I am through the worst part as I am feeling much better.” Zoe rested her chin on her hand. “My menstrual cycle seems messed up…I‟m a few days late.” “Maybe you‟re going through the change.” Paige laughed. Her comment drew a light laugh from Zoe. “That‟s an understatement. What a blessing that would be to skip all that by becoming immortal.” “That in itself is reason enough to drink their cocktail,” Paige said with a grin. “When did you decide to take the leap?” “I drank it after Booker went off to find you. I was afraid you might not come back so when Rider invited me to become a vampire, I took the leap. I wanted to become stronger in case Flaming Steel came after me, too.” “Why didn‟t you take his bite?” Zoe couldn‟t hide her dismay. “He‟s very charming, Zoe, and we did enjoy each other. But I‟m not ready for that type of commitment. I‟m sorry.” “You and Rider didn‟t hit it off? You looked very close on the dance floor. I thought for sure you‟d be a couple in no time.” Paige shrugged with a casual smile. “C‟mon, Zoe. You know me. I like playing the field. Yes, we hit it off just fine and I had a fabulous afternoon with him. I‟m just not ready to bind myself to one man for eternity.” 129

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“So…is this a one-night-stand kind of thing then?” Her brows tipped upward in sad expression. When she‟d sensed Paige was yearning for a man, she automatically assumed her friend wanted a mate. Apparently Paige had a more carnal craving than emotional need. “Maybe more than one night,” Paige said. “He was quite good.” Zoe sighed, but couldn‟t get angry. She‟d truly hoped Paige would settle down with one man. Nevertheless, her friend had the right to live her life as she chose. “What was the cocktail like?” Paige shuddered. “Bitter.” “Oh.” “I do like the idea of becoming a vampire even if the process makes me a little ill. Rider assured me that the side effects will quickly pass and that the mix may affect everyone differently.” Zoe gave her a quirky smile. “You‟re so independent. I‟ve always admired that in you.” “And you‟ve always been the fearless one,” Paige countered. “You jump right in without an anxious thought in that pretty little head of yours.” “Oh I‟ve had an anxious thought or two.” Zoe laughed. “I just don‟t bow to fear—did enough of that during my marriage.” “So we offset each other nicely.” “Yeah. We make a good team. Look how far we‟ve come with Night Brigade. Now we‟re taking them to a higher level. How do you think they‟ll react to our next proposal? We sure have been throwing a lot at them the past few days.” Paige pushed away from the table and to her feet. “I guess it‟s time we find out.” “You look a lot better. You‟re color has returned.” 130

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“Good.” Paige laughed. “We may have a harder time convincing the group to follow my lead if they think I‟m not faring well.” “Don‟t make the mistake of thinking Rider will be your lover forever without a commitment. He‟s hungry.” They exchanged uneasy smiles, then walked in to join the others. Expectant eyes turned to Zoe and Paige upon their entrance. One of the members turned the stereo off and everyone began to settle. Zoe noticed many curious glances cast at the two men standing off to the side taking in the scene. No doubt these women wanted to know more about these hot-looking new additions to their pack. Zoe gave a brief introduction to Booker and Rider, then she explained in detail why the two men had been selected and what they had to offer Night Brigade. “You want us to drink blood?” Hannah questioned with an incredulous look. “First you bring two men we‟ve never met before into the group and I was okay with that. I trusted your judgment, but this is way over the line. Now you expect us to drink their blood mixed with God knows what from an old bottle? Are you crazy?” “I don‟t want Night Brigade to die,” Zoe stepped forward. “Mott almost succeeded in killing me. He already killed one woman and he‟s strong and cunning. I told you that one day we‟d have to face other gangs.” She paused to let her gaze sweep the room. “That day has come. They caught me twice with my guard down. Mott has taken control of Flaming Steel and has the resources to send men out as spies. Yes, it‟s been relatively easy for us to maintain our watch for injustice and help victims as we find them. We have always been the aggressors. However, we have encountered a determined and dangerous enemy.” “No—you have! You‟re the reason Mott knows we exist,” 131

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Hannah lashed out. “And like it couldn‟t have happened to any woman in this room!” Zoe shot back. “I quit living in fear the day I decided to divorce Travis. I won‟t let another man control me…ever. If any of you had been through what I‟ve survived, you know damn well I‟d be the first one on the road seeking revenge on your behalf.” “I‟m not interested in war with Flaming Steel. They are a huge group and we have no beef with them. I have no sordid desire to drink blood and become some kind of modern day vampire.” Hannah surprised Zoe with her strong opposition on the matter. “How can you say that?” Paige interjected. “They tried to kill our leader!” Zoe hadn‟t seen this coming. She failed to grasp when the animosity had taken root in Hannah. “Yet you‟re okay showing off your superior skills to those who don‟t make you feel threatened? Is that how it‟s been, Hannah? Have your targets been carefully selected to ensure your victory?” Hannah gasped in open angst. “I can kick anyone‟s ass here.” “Is that a challenge?” Zoe took a step toward her. “Don‟t be ridiculous.” Hannah moved back a few paces. “You started this organization to help the oppressed…not to become blood drinking vampires out to fight a futile war. Each of us has been vigilant in our own districts. Countless women have been rescued from bad marriages and unethical work situations by our members. We‟ve helped and will continue to help any in need of our assistance. That is what we set out to do.” Zoe felt her jaw muscles tighten. “Well I‟m sorry if my situation is too much for you to handle. Perhaps we need to reevaluate your membership.” 132

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“You know what, Zoe?” Hannah glared at her. “Do whatever the hell you want, I‟m outta here. I can head up the eastern division on my own and you can stay out here with your—your vampire lover or whatever he is!” She spun away and picked up her jacket, but not before casting a final glance Booker‟s way. “Leave the jacket!” Zoe called out as Hannah neared the door. “Night Brigade is my group. If you plan on doing your own thing, choose a different name.” Hannah didn‟t turn around as she hesitated at the door. After a few moments, she flung her Night Brigade jacket to the floor, then stomped out, slamming the door behind her. Paige touched Zoe‟s shoulder. “Don‟t worry, she‟ll be back. Hannah has always been arrogant and a hot head. Once she cools down, she will return.” “I don‟t know.” Zoe shook her head in despair. “Maybe I expect too much from the group. This is my battle after all.” “Don‟t say that! You have been an awesome, dedicated leader. I know you‟d risk your life to save me and any other woman in need. I‟ll fight by your side.” Paige moved into the center of the room. “I drank from the bottle. I witnessed the power behind its contents when I had a vision after touching the bite mark on Zoe‟s neck. You only need take one swallow, ladies, to become immortal. Who else wants to be part of the most revered biking group on the road?” Zoe sincerely appreciated Paige‟s support. She hoped others would feel the same. “How can we be sure it works?” one of the women asked. “I can help with that,” Booker spoke up. He strode over to Zoe‟s side and took her hand in his. Then he produced a switchblade. A hush fell over the room. Zoe looked up at him as a peculiar sensation overtook her. The knife seemed familiar somehow and she flashed back to a dark room, so cold with death. His eyes searched hers. She 133

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comprehended what he was about to do and felt no fear. In the next instant, he swiped the blade across her wrist, instantly drawing a gush of blood. A flurry of gasps traveled through the crowd. Booker lifted her arm to his mouth where he drank the flowing blood while gazing into her eyes. The love shining in those seductive eyes thrilled her as did his sensual lips sucking her skin. When finished, he held her wrist out for all to see. “See for yourselves, the power in her blood.” Silence. Everyone sat back in open shock, watching absorbedly as the deep slash on Zoe‟s wrist healed before their eyes. “Wow…” Paige ran her fingers over the place where he‟d cut Zoe. “That‟s incredible. Had I not seen it for myself, I‟d never have believed it. You must trust him completely— letting him do that to you without flinching.” Zoe gazed up at Booker. “I do. He brought me back to life with his blood.” “You remember that,” Booker said in a soft voice, looking slightly surprised. “Yeah…” Her comrades gathered around to take a closer look. Many sought to touch her wrist and Zoe invited them all to draw close. “If you choose this path,” Booker told them, “you will experience powerful cravings at first. But they can be satisfied with blood foods at your local meat market. You don‟t have to feed on human blood to maintain your status. Drinking the blood-cocktail we give you will ensure your transformation as it did for me and Rider.” “You say we will be immortal…can anything kill us?” Booker looked around the room, openly contemplating what to say. “Only one thing can kill us,” he told them. “Swordfish. For some reason, it‟s toxic to our clan. That‟s all 134

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I can tell you about the code.” “I ain‟t afraid of a fish. Count me in,” Erin, a longtime member said. “Where‟s that damn bottle?” She laughed lightheartedly. Others followed her lead, forming a circle around Zoe and Booker. “The process may take a few days to complete,” Booker told them. “So we‟d like you to lie low while undergoing the change, okay?” They nodded eagerly. “I‟m first!” Erin chirped. Zoe motioned for Rider to bring his precious relic over. “Okay, girls, how about we all sit in a circle and pass the bottle.” She glanced at Booker. “Will there be enough for everyone?” “Yeah, sugar,” he replied with a grin. “We made sure to refill the bottle before the original blood was gone. As long as we keep the blood chain strong, the drink keeps its power.” “Should we light a candle or something?” asked Erin. “Does it need to be part of a ritual?” Rider gave her an intrigued look, clearly impressed by her enthusiasm. “If it will make you feel better, by all means, go ahead. But me and Booker were just sitting around partying the night we drank. Hell, we didn‟t even fully believe the old legend and did it as a joke.” “You didn‟t become a vampire by choice?” Erin seemed a bit disconcerted. “Well…” Rider laughed “I wouldn‟t say that. I knew the legend surrounding the bottle passed down by my ancestors, but we took it lightly—too lightly I guess.” He paused, looking at the bottle in his hand. “I have no regrets. The transformation was fairly easy and I like being immortal.” 135

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“Who do you feed on?” Erin pressed. “Nobody…yet.” His eyes darted toward Paige, who nervously looked away. So Rider turned his attention back to Erin. “I haven‟t found a permanent mate so I eat bloodrich foods. If you can find a good butcher, he‟ll save you blood to drink.” “Can we feed on people?” “We‟re not killers,” Rider told her. “Booker and I don‟t use animals to slake our appetite either. No need to harm innocent creatures. I‟ve not taken the blood of a human yet. With our heightened senses and superior strength, we‟ve been able to fight our way out of situations thus far.” “But would you?” “Take human blood?” He cocked one eyebrow in obvious contemplation. “Yeah.” Erin seemed satisfied at last with her inquisition. She found a place on the floor to sit and patted the space beside her while staring at Rider. Zoe stole a glance at Paige, wondering how she‟d feel about another woman moving in on the handsome immortal. Surely Erin’s interest in Rider will nudge Paige toward him. Yet, Paige didn‟t appear bothered in the least. Zoe shrugged and sat down with Booker, prepared to watch her comrades take their first step toward ushering Night Brigade into a new realm. Some of the members had left, unwilling to forge ahead into this shadowy domain. A pile of jackets lay near the door. Zoe felt sad over losing them. However, she knew more would come as her group‟s reputation surfaced. Her gaze traveled over those who had decided to stay— she estimated about seventy-five. My toughest comrades. Welcome to a better world. Erin had found a large white candle and had placed it in the center of the group. She seemed completely absorbed by the matter and anxious to take her leap. Zoe smiled, pleased by Erin‟s zeal. Her infectious 136

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attitude had already influenced the others. Rider handed the ornate bottle to Erin first. “One swallow, ladies, is all it takes. It‟s a pretty large bottle, but we want to be sure everyone gets some.” Erin accepted the drink and, without hesitation, took a gulp. “Ugh, it‟s so bitter!” Then she laughed and passed it on. Zoe watched in utter fascination as one-by-one everyone present drank from the bottle. A wide range of expressions crossed their faces from grimaces to intrigue. When the cocktail came full circle, Rider took a swig, then passed it to Booker. “To seal the circle of blood,” he said to Zoe, when she gave him a puzzled look. Booker wrapped an arm around her shoulders, then lowered his head. Their lips met and she tasted the lingering drink on his—felt the heady rush as his tongue swept through her mouth. “This is the only vodka we have in the house,” said Paige upon presenting Rider with a frosted glass bottle. “Will it do?” “Yeah,” he replied. Everyone sat in quiet observation as Rider poured the fresh vodka into his ancient container, then he and Booker sliced a deep cut across their palm. First Rider, then Booker held a hand over the rim to let their blood trickle down the long neck and into the primeval decanter. Rider gave it a few easy shakes, peeked inside, then sealed it with a glass stopper. “I hope there are a few good butchers in the area,” he said with a jovial laugh. “Are you kidding?” Paige smiled incredulously. “We are smack-dab in the middle of cattle country. Steak is a mainstay out here.” 137

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“Good…good.” Rider nodded his approval. “We best hit the shops in the morning and gather enough to feed this pack. The initial cravings are fierce. Then as you adapt, they are easier to satisfy.” Erin made no attempt to hide her attraction to the tall, dark and handsome Rider. She continually smiled flirtatiously at him and didn‟t leave his side to socialize with those who began to roam about. A table of snacks and beverages had been set up for the event. Paige seemed to have everything under control—except for Hannah. While Hannah‟s unexpected departure was regrettable, the sting of her words lingered. Zoe felt bad enough about her naïve involvement with Mott. She didn‟t appreciate Hannah‟s harsh accusation. “I‟m going out to check on my bike,” Zoe told Booker, then quietly slipped out the back.

She found her Custom Softail parked close to the back steps, right next to Booker‟s. After giving it a meticulous inspection, Zoe threw her leg over the seat and settled onto the leather. Feels so good! Taking the keys from her pocket, she slid them into the ignition and fired the engine. The thrill of straddling all that power never got old. She considered taking off for a quick spin around town, but decided to play it safe for now and not let herself get too cocky. Recent events had proven she had met a strong challenge in Mott. And since he‟d found himself a biker group to utilize, she‟d need to execute intelligence and be careful to avoid future mistakes. Booker came trotting down the steps. He‟d obviously been keeping an eye on her. She cut the engine as he approached. 138

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“Don‟t worry,” she said. “I wasn‟t going anywhere.” “I know…I was watching. Thought you might enjoy a few minutes alone with her.” “Yeah, feels great to have my bike with me again.” She pulled a cotton bandana from her saddlebag, then affectionately polished the chrome and shining silvery-blue metal until not a speck of dust remained. “Looks like we‟ll be hanging out here for a couple days,” he said. “The women need to be ready before we take on Steel.” “Are you okay with that? Is this group thing making you restless?” Booker sat sideways on his parked bike, facing her, then lit a fresh smoke. “Don‟t worry about me, sugar.” “Do we have a plan of attack?” “Yeah,” he replied with a fearless laugh. “Drive straight in and bury the mother-fuckers.” She smiled adoringly at him. His badass side was as intense as his tender side. He could turn on the heat in any direction. And no matter what he did, his every action turned her on in a new way. “I want to take out Mott.” Her mood became serious. Booker studied her face for a few minutes while enjoying his cigarette, then he said, “How about we take him out together? I would‟ve killed him right then, but when I saw you weren‟t in his office, I knew there was no time to spare.” “Do you think he went back to New York to hide?” “Doesn‟t matter.” Booker flicked the butt to the ground and stomped it out. “I‟ll find him.” “Promise that you won‟t go without me. I want to see him pay.” “C‟mere…” He pulled her into his arms. “I swear you will get to watch Mott suffer. I‟d not deny you the pleasure.” Zoe looked up and saw the moonlight dancing in his eyes. 139

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“We still have plenty of this beautiful night to enjoy. How about I run inside and grab a few beers, then we can sit out here and enjoy the fresh air.” “Sounds good.” He gave her a quick kiss before playfully slapping her behind. “Don‟t take too long.” **** Booker watched her walk away. She looked hotter than ever in the painted-on black leather. He noticed she‟d traded her high-heeled boots for more practical riding boots. Her bikerlook aroused him immensely. He didn‟t understand why Zoe felt Hannah was so tough. Booker had gone easy on the tall blonde in order to spare her humiliation. Her haughtiness had been quite evident to him, but he wasn‟t about to disrespect the group by voicing his opinion. Zoe underestimates herself. I had a much harder time subduing her than I did Hannah. Regardless, he knew that would soon change as Zoe came to realize her superior strength as his forever mate. He heard someone approaching from the side alley and thought maybe Zoe had gone out the front door and walked around. Why would she do that? He focused on the silhouette as it drew near and realized the person was not Zoe. He‟d know her saucy sway anywhere and this person moved in a stiff manner. “I can‟t believe Zoe left you out here all alone.” Booker recognized the voice and, upon closer look, saw Hannah walking his way. He figured she‟d had come to her senses and returned to make amends. He stood up, then glanced toward the rear entrance. “She‟s coming right back.” “Hungry for some fresh blood, handsome?” Hannah came on boldly. 140

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“Say what?” Booker slanted a dry look at the audacious blonde. Her palm shot out toward his chest. He grabbed her wrist before she touched him. “C‟mon, Booker, don‟t tell me you weren‟t turned on as much as I was when we fought.” He laughed. “You call that fighting, do you?” Without warning, she literally threw herself at him, flinging her free arm around his neck. “I knew you were holding back. Now show me what you‟ve got.” “Get away from me, woman.” He tried untangling her from his body, but she had a strong hold with one arm and a leg locked around him. He didn‟t enjoy the thought of using force on a woman. “You‟re fucking crazy. Now get the hell off before Zoe comes out.” Her face drew uninvitingly close to his. “So what? Maybe she‟ll get pissed and leave. I‟m not afraid of her.” “You should be,” he growled. They began to wrestle as he tried to unlatch her hold. “Don‟t tell me a bad boy like you gave his heart away.” Hannah intensified her moves, managing to maneuver her hands into his hair. “I imagine you have a lot to offer a woman.” Booker grasped her by the waist to get around her fast hands and gain some leverage. He tried twisting away, but she tightened the hold on his hair seconds before forcing her mouth against his. Zoe‟s timing couldn‟t have been worse. He heard the sound of breaking glass, then Zoe gasp before running toward her bike which was just behind him. Booker had to exert more force than he preferred to push Hannah away. She stumbled backward before tripping and falling in the gravel. He swung around to stop Zoe. “Let go,” Zoe snapped when he snagged the handles of her bike with his hands. 141

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“Angel, it‟s not what you think.” Booker saw her cheeks glisten with tears as a sliver of moonlight caught her face. “Listen to me.” His words got lost in the roar of her engine as she throttled the bike, then drove straight over his boots before taking off down the road. In a flash, he hopped his cycle. Hannah rushed over to him and jumped in front of his bike. “Let her go. She‟s not the right woman for you. Didn‟t you feel the sparks when we fought? Think about it! We are a perfect match—two fighters meant to be together.” Hannah fired off her words in rapid succession as he started the engine. “Why go chasing after her when it‟s so obvious I am the right woman for you?” “I follow my destiny.” Booker slipped his bike into gear. “And she just rode away.” He left Hannah standing in the dark—a bewildered expression on her face. He had no idea how she‟d drawn the insane conclusion that he‟d been remotely attracted to her. The sky grew darker as thunder clouds gathered overhead, shrouding the moon as if nature itself shared his anguish. He raced down a black highway on the lookout for any sign of Zoe. Her temper was her weakness to take off without thinking like she did. How could she possibly think I’d want anyone other than her? He cursed under his breath, convinced he‟d never truly understand women. Nevertheless, Hannah had been right on one account—he did give his heart away—and now he had to find it. A rustling in some brush as he flew past seemed a bit unusual so he veered his Harley, pulling a sharp U-turn to backtrack. Had she used my own trick to evade me, knowing she could never outrun me? His bike downshifted to a low rumble as he cruised along the roadside, scouring the thicket. Rain began to pour, obscuring his vision but he refused to give 142

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up. He felt her presence and wondered if she was watching him from her hiding place, making him look a fool. Finally, some clear evidence presented itself when he spotted tire tracks on the berm. After pulling his bike into the undergrowth, he slid off and pushed his way through low hanging branches and thistle. “Zoe,” he called softly. “I know you‟re in here, babe. C‟mon, it‟s not safe to be doing this.” “I don‟t care,” came her shaky reply. “Go away…leave me alone.” He moved toward her voice until finding her huddled on the ground, arms wrapped around her bent knees. She had her face buried against her legs. “So…you knew you couldn‟t outrun me and decided to use my own tactics against me.” He sighed, then knelt in front of her. “At least look at me.” Zoe lifted her head, the rain had soaked her lush, long hair and it hung in wet strands about her face. She stared at him with hauntingly sad eyes, smudged with makeup by tears and rain. “I saw you kissing her.” “No,” he refuted. “She was kissing me. The woman practically attacked me.” “You had your arms around her waist!” “Maybe you should have taken a closer look before losing your cool,” he said in a firm voice. “I had my hands—” Her clout across the face stunned him. His jaw muscles tensed as he spoke through clenched teeth. “I was trying to tear the bitch off me.” Jumping to his feet, he effortlessly pulled her up with him. Their eyes met in a heated glare. She was definitely challenging him and had become very strong. Rain bands ripped through the brush—stinging his face— washing over them. 143

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“Don‟t tell me you couldn‟t overpower her. I watched you holding back during your initiation.” Booker saw genuine hurt in her eyes and began to see her point. “Yeah…I could have exerted my strength over her,” he conceded. “I‟ve never had to use brute force with women and I‟m not okay with it. You came out at the worst possible moment. Had you taken two seconds longer, you‟d have seen Hannah on her ass.” “Maybe you only pushed her away when you heard me coming.” “No, damn it! She came on to me like a crazed bitch in heat.” He flung his hair from his face, sending a spray of water over them. “I did not kiss her! What you saw was me grabbing her waist to push her away. She was like a fucking octopus and it was the only place I could get a firm grip.” Zoe stared into him with an intensity that felt almost startling. He‟d never known a woman with such fire. She searched his eyes and he didn‟t flinch. “You‟re gonna have to get a handle on this,” he told her. “You ride with an allfemale pack. This shit is bound to happen.” “I don‟t like it,” she said. “Do you wanna take off…just you and me…after we take care of Mott?” “Leave my pack?” “Yeah…ride with me.” A shaken look crossed her face, clearly not expecting that. “So you don‟t want to lead Night Brigade with me as alpha male?” “Babe, I don‟t need control of a biker group to be your alpha male. I fear no one.” “I never considered leaving them.” He sensed her conflict. “Maybe it‟s time you spread your wings…angel.” One hand slid along her cheek while his other stroked her hair. “Don‟t you know that you‟re all I 144

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need? That your angel eyes take me from darkness to light?” A flash of lightning illuminated the night for an instant. In that moment, he saw the deep love in her eyes behind the tears. His heart ached to erase the pain he‟d caused by giving Hannah the slightest edge. He lowered his head until their lips almost touched. “I‟m sorry,” Booker murmured. “I‟ll never let it happen again.” Zoe‟s expression softened and she melted against him as their lips met. Torrential rain streamed down their faces as they merged into a deeply passionate kiss. With a gentle hand at the back of her head, he pressed closer until feeling her hands slide into his hair. Her kiss felt forgiving— yielding—and carried a purity that blew him away. In one concurrent move, they eased from the kiss and clung to one another in a loving embrace with their faces buried against each other‟s necks. “I love you, angel,” he whispered. She shivered against him with a quivering sigh and he felt the tension flee her soul.

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Chapter Eight

“B

y the way,” Booker gave her a nod as they sat on their Harleys, prepared to ride. “Nice bike.” Zoe smiled with evident pride. “I know.” He shook his head with a laugh. Fiery and cool—just what I like. They rumbled onto the pavement, then kicked their bikes into gear. Looking over as they rode, he observed her for the first time in his world. She seemed perfectly at ease handling her fine machine even on the rain-slickened roads. Her hair whipped out behind her and she had no trouble keeping pace with him. They raced side-by-side with only the growl of their engines doing the talking. The ride back to the parlor went too fast. Booker felt the urge to keep on going. Female drama had begun to wear his patience thin. Nevertheless, he‟d made a promise to Zoe and unless she said otherwise, he‟d protect her and the Night Brigade army until they no longer needed him. He‟d been invited many times to join Flaming Steel and other large organizations, yet Booker had kept to himself. Perhaps his demons were to blame for his isolated lifestyle—losing his first love, becoming a vampire and a burning lust for revenge on a man who deserved to die. All in all, the result of carrying those dark shadows had led him to Zoe—a decision he‟d never regret regardless of what lie ahead. 146

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“You ride well,” he told her after they parked. “Just like I pictured.” “And you ride fast.” She smiled in open admiration. “Too fast for ya, sugar?” She playfully fell against him, nudging her shoulder into his side. “Never.” They meandered up the steps and into the building. They no sooner got through the door when Paige appeared in the kitchen. “Zoe!” Paige grabbed her arm. “Where have you been? The pack has gone stark mad!” “I went for a ride. What‟s going on? What happened?” Zoe didn‟t appear rattled in the least by Paige‟s near hysteria. “They are out prowling the streets, looking for men and seeking blood, Paige told her. “The cocktail seems to have affected them sooner than expected.” “What can we do?” Zoe looked up at Booker. “Let them go. Once they feed, they‟ll return.” “Feed?” Paige looked horrified. “What happened to getting steak and blood from a butcher?” Booker shrugged, not overly worried. “The sooner they feed, the faster their transformation and the stronger they become. Where‟s Rider?” “Upstairs…with Erin,” replied Paige with a shake of her head. “He‟s a hound.” “You had your shot, babe,” he said. “Simply because I wouldn‟t be bound to him for eternity and chose to drink the mix instead, he‟s moving on just like that?” “You sound surprised.” Booker looked at her with little emotion. “Contrary to what you may think of us, Rider and I aren‟t into one night stands or shallow relationships. Hell, we can get that anywhere.” 147

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She ignored his rebuttal. “Won‟t the men turn into vampires if our female members bite them?” Paige asked. “We aren‟t renegade vampires. Our blood has been kept pure through generations and there is a code…” He paused to light a smoke, then added, “Which is only repeated to life mates. So in answer to your question—no, only those invited by an ordained male can receive immortality through us or become a life mate in our clan. Vampirism isn‟t a disease spread around randomly like uninformed commoners believe. It‟s a choice—a privilege.” “Oh.” Disappointment shadowed Paige‟s pretty face. Booker placed an index finger under her chin. “If he invited you to receive his bite and you turned him down— he won‟t be asking you again.” “Oh…” Regret hung on her voice. “So what does happen to the men if we bite them to feed?” Paige asked. Booker looked away while exhaling a long drag. “They‟ll feel a little sick…unless you take too much, then they may die.” He must‟ve sounded as callous as he felt over her remorse because both women looked up at him, panic-stricken. “What? Does that bother you?” He challenged them. “Isn‟t that what you do…go after men you deem unjust to deliver fair payment?” Zoe relented with ease. “He‟s right, Paige. We have been a self-proclaimed vigilante group helping women rise above male tyranny. Can we blame our members for turning their anger loose? They‟ve had to hold back on many occasions for fear of the law, or suffer defeat in those instances when we were unable to get the woman out in time.” Paige nodded in seemingly partial agreement. Booker felt proud of the way Zoe had turned it around. She has the heart of a warrior. “True,” Paige agreed. “It was heartbreaking when a 148

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soldier returned with the dreaded news that her assignment had failed.” “Yes, women who unknowingly got involved with men like Mott,” Zoe stated, anger blazed in her eyes. “Now we have real power—enough to stop them when the law looks the other way.” “Wanna ride out and check on your comrades before the sun comes up?” Booker asked. **** “Hold up,” Rider called from the doorway leading to the main room. He was slipping into his leather jacket while walking toward them. “I‟m coming with you.” Zoe slanted him a curious look. “Where‟s Erin?” “Out,” he replied. “I thought you were…that you two were…” Zoe tried not to sound nosy. Rider laughed. “Nah, that‟s not gonna work out—cute little thing, but horny as hell—much too overbearing for my taste. I‟m not interested in a quick lay so I sent her out with the others. She wouldn‟t settle long enough to have a decent conversation.” “What did I tell ya?” Booker shot Paige a knowing look. Zoe gave Rider a playful nudge as the four of them headed out the door. “Maybe there‟s hope for you and Paige yet.” He draped an arm across her shoulders and leaned close to whisper, “Only if she begs. I don‟t take lightly to being rejected. I have plenty to offer a woman.” “I‟m sure you do.” She found his confidence sexy and failed to grasp why Paige hadn‟t snapped this man up. He reminded her of Booker in a way, with the heightened charisma, sensual undertone in his voice and the tall, 149

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mysteriously dark allure. “If I didn‟t know better, I‟d think you and Booker are brothers.” Her comment drew Booker‟s attention. His arm slid around her waist. Sandwiched between the two gorgeous immortals felt intoxicating, she had to shake her head to focus on the steps. Both men carried themselves with supreme confidence yet Booker clearly came off as the leader from what she knew about them. He‟d been the first to drink the blood and simply emanated leadership qualities. Rider seemed more easygoing, maybe even a bit passive yet not at all weak. Together they offset each other well, creating a dynamic display of male power. She thought she caught them exchange a furtive glance, but dismissed it. Surely Booker would have mentioned he had a brother. Either way, she couldn‟t deny the heady sensation of their close proximity on either side of her as they walked. They mounted their bikes, then rode the outskirts of the city in search of their comrades. Signs of their activity didn‟t take long to surface, however, the women had obviously moved on. Zoe scanned the area with mixed emotion. “Am I supposed to feel sorry for them?” she asked Booker when they stopped at a light. “Do you?” he asked in his typical direct approach. She shook her head. “Then don‟t.” He gave a nod toward an alley up ahead. “C‟mon, let‟s take a look around.” They rumbled through the suburban streets. From what she saw, the women had seemingly hit the local bars and caught men leaving at closing time. Relatively fresh blood stained the sides of buildings in the more remote areas. Every so often they came across a lifeless body lying in a pool of blood, the flesh torn from his neck. Mostly though, Zoe would spot a terrified man staggering through the street, clutching his throat and moaning. 150

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“I do believe your Night Brigade took their new status as vampires to heart,” Booker commented with a wry grin. Zoe pointed to a woman kneeling in the alley, still feeding. “Don‟t interfere,” he told her. “She‟ll rage on you.” “What?” “Feeding is intense—remember? What would you have done if someone had disturbed you while drinking my blood?” The recollection made Zoe‟s mouth water. “I‟d have killed them. But it was sensual with us.” “Doesn‟t matter,” he said. “Feeding invokes animal lust. Never try to stop them or you‟ll see a new level of rage. Not that you couldn‟t handle it…I‟d just hate to see you have to kill one of your own.” They cautiously moved a bit closer to their comrade. Zoe watched in fascination as the woman kept her victim pinned to the ground, her mouth at his neck. He wailed in pain, but his screams were quickly drowned by the roar of motorcycles as the clan circled back into the area. They gathered around Zoe with expectant eyes—waiting for her reaction. She remained composed as if they had done nothing wrong. After all, she‟d trained them to be fighters and led them down this dark path. “Is she the last one to finish?” Zoe calmly asked Erin, who fronted the pack. “Yes. Are you upset with us, Zoe?” “No.” Her eyes swept over the group. “I‟m impressed by your dedication. We have successfully taken Night Brigade to the highest level.” Erin surprised Zoe by bowing her head in reverence. “You bravely took the first step and we followed. We will forever be loyal to our fearless leader.” Zoe glanced at Booker and saw great pride shining in his 151

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eyes, then she looked back at Paige who appeared somewhat shell-shocked. Rider stared back at Zoe with a heated gaze, clearly aroused by the scene. His increased appetite became all too evident and she felt for him. She sensed that all four of them had developed a sudden craving. Booker sat quietly—respectfully giving her space to assume her elevated rank among the pack. “Flaming Steel won‟t know what hit them,” Zoe said. A wicked grin touched Booker‟s face. “No…they sure as hell won‟t.” Zoe turned back to Erin. “When she‟s done over there, get everyone back to the parlor before daybreak.” Erin nodded. “You got it.”

“Why have we stopped here?” Paige asked, when they pulled into a wooded area. Zoe didn‟t reply. Instead she slid off her bike and walked straight toward Booker who sat casually on his parked Harley, watching her with cool eyes. He swung one leg over the seat to face her as she approached. She moved between his outstretched legs and his powerful arms moved up her back. Their eyes met for a hot, silent exchange. Clutching handfuls of his thick hair, she swept it to one side, baring his strong neck for Paige to see seconds before Zoe sunk her teeth into his flesh. Booker groaned. His hands dropped to her hips, pulling her tight against him. His huge erection strained against the worn denim, making her ache to bed him. However, the urgent craving for his blood deluged her. Greedily she sucked. With each tug from her hungry mouth, his arousal rose as indicated by his physical response— sweat beaded skin—taut muscles—and feral groans rumbling in his broad chest. After slaking her lust for his blood, she drew back slightly 152

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to brush her lips over his. He brazenly licked the excess blood away. Bare your neck for me, my love. His silent command penetrated her thoughts. With pleasure, she pulled her tangled mane aside, again to tease Paige. She delighted in Booker‟s commanding gentleness—fierce yet always tender with her. He pushed to his feet, towering over her with pure, masculine brawn. Clinging to his protective embrace, she welcomed the sting of his bite followed by an intense rush of heat that coursed through her body. “Ah…yeah…” She sighed as euphoria claimed her. He exhibited greater control than she had—leisurely caressing her skin with his lips while intermittently sucking at the wound—taking very little blood. The tantalizing manner in which he delivered his bite was indescribable. Zoe drew a sharp breath as her body defied her, climaxing in immediate blissful release. “Ohh…” Her breathing lapsed into jagged breaths as she clung to him. Booker lifted his head. She could barely hold her eyes open while gazing up at him. “You‟re surrender to me is oh so sweet,” he purred. In the next moment, his mouth covered hers. Deliciously exploring and showering her with love. Zoe felt breathless when he eased away. They both turned toward Rider—agony shadowed his face. Then Booker gave Rider a nod to join them, which surprised her yet in some inexplicable way she understood. Deep in her subconscious, Zoe felt a spiritual connection between the two men which she assumed existed by drinking the same blood. A commanding desire to ease Rider‟s anguish flooded her, as if Booker had infiltrated her soul with his will. She didn‟t say a word as Rider 153

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approached and stood over her with Booker—nor did she feel a hint of objection. Quite the opposite, Booker‟s silent request to include Rider thrilled her. Could anything be more titillating than having two gorgeous vampires sucking my neck? I doubt it! “You are and will always be queen of our clan,” Booker said in a seductively soft voice. “Will you ease his suffering tonight?” “Gladly.” She smiled up at both men. Booker gathered her hair in one hand and held it back, then began kissing and sucking the side of her neck opposite of where he‟d bitten her. Rider placed one arm about her waist, then leaned in gently to feed on the fresh wound. Zoe couldn‟t help but tremble with two sensual immortals raining passion over her—one feeding, the other kissing and nibbling at her neck—both creating staggering pleasure. She slid a hand into each of their silken manes, holding them affectionately as they slaked their urgent need. Rider groaned and tightened his embrace, openly relieved by her gift. Booker had his arms around her, too. Her senses reeled and she felt that peculiar feeling of soaring above the clouds again. At one point, Booker covered her mouth with his in a passionate kiss. Then his lips worked their way down her neck to allow Rider the privilege of indulging in a kiss. He placed a grateful kiss on her lips when he‟d taken only enough blood to satisfy his urgent craving. The spark from Rider‟s kiss took her by surprise. Nevertheless, she yielded to it as everything between the three of them felt amazingly natural. She returned his kiss, letting him explore her mouth with his tongue, all the while with one arm curled around each man‟s neck. “I could so easily make love to you, Zoe.” His sensually spoken profession sparked an ache between her legs. She stared into Rider‟s dark, alluring gaze. 154

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Don’t worry, my love, I trust him. Booker‟s thoughts entered her mind as if he‟d said them aloud. Just go with it. She moaned and began to squirm between them as her arousal quickly mounted. Her eyes darted from one man to the other as they waited in what seemed like excited anticipation for her response. Her breathing had become erratic. After a brief moment of consideration, she nodded. “You‟re in for the experience of your life,” Booker muttered in a tone so utterly sexy she nearly swooned. “Our vampire status enables us to pleasure you in supernatural ways.” He moved into position to her front while Rider took up behind her, completely concealing her from Paige‟s view. Within minutes, strong yet gentle hands had her stripped. Booker covered her face with kisses before sealing his lips to hers while Rider let his lips nibble and tease the delicate skin of her neck. Their hands swept over her body, caressing her breasts and fondling the dripping flesh between her legs. Then suddenly she felt both of their cocks pushing into her vaginal opening. Ohhh…how can this be? She clung to them as her knees went weak and they supported her weight with ease, holding her up with muscular arms. Looking up at Booker, she saw the enthrallment in his hot gaze. They stretched her—filled her pussy with hard, male sex. Every nerve ending throbbed with unbelievable pleasure as both men thrust in and out in perfect unison. They are truly gifted, she mused. By the time she neared climax, Zoe had lost track of whose hands were where and it didn‟t seem to matter. Both men seemed fully absorbed in their desire to please her. Time faded as they fucked her into oblivion. Closing her eyes, she let herself get lost in them as her body soared. Vivid colors swirled behind her eyelids as an overpowering orgasm claimed her yet again. 155

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“Mm, yeah,” Booker murmured. “Angel, baby…let yourself go…yes just like this.” They exploded inside, shooting a flood of hot liquid deep into her core. She‟d never felt anything this marvelously thrilling. “Ah, you are so beautiful when you come,” Rider whispered in her ear. “Fuck yeah, Zoe…you‟re so fucking hot.” Shudders coursed through her at an all-time high. If not for them holding her, she‟d have collapsed on the ground from sheer pleasure. She could feel their cocks pulsating inside as they spilled the last of their release and her vaginal walls contracted around them while coming down from the euphoria. “Thank you for taking away my suffering.” Rider gently turned her head to place a soft kiss on her lips. “Anytime.” She offered him a soft smile. Booker let his lips brush hers in feathery kisses. “You are truly an angel.” They held her securely until she stopped shaking and could stand on her own, then both men dressed her before stepping back. Gradually Zoe turned her head toward Paige who appeared mesmerized by the intense display she‟d just been given the pleasure of witnessing. Zoe didn‟t need to say it—she could see that Paige knew what she was missing. Nobody spoke as they resumed their short ride back to the parlor. Chitchat would have tainted the sacred interlude just shared among friends. **** Paige leaned back in a floor sac while the pack filtered in shortly before dawn. The image of Zoe and Booker 156

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exchanging their bite played over and over in her mind. She could think of nothing else. They had exhibited a connection like none she‟d ever seen or known. The way Booker had shared Zoe‟s blood with his comrade had stunned her—she hadn‟t seen that coming. And the grand finale of their sexy hot ménage left Paige shell-shocked. Zoe had an adventurous spirit that was inspiring. Her best friend didn‟t know the real reason that she had refused Rider‟s bite. Fear. Simple as that. Zoe had never bowed to fear since leaving Travis and Paige loved that in her. She didn‟t want her to know, especially now when Zoe seemed stronger than ever. What will she think if I tell her I was too afraid to let Rider bite me? Yet, Zoe had made it look like the most natural act in the world and Paige couldn‟t find peace with a lie between them. “You seem troubled,” Zoe said, plopping down on the floor to sit cross-legged opposite Paige. “Am I that obvious?” Paige smiled in an attempt to cover her distress. “I was just taking some time to think. Things have been crazy around here since—” She bit her lip and looked away. “Since I came into town?” Zoe added. Paige leaned forward, placing her hand over Zoe‟s. “I‟m sorry…I didn‟t mean to sound crass.” “Was it too much for you…the women feeding and all the blood…and me with both men?” “I must admit I was shocked. You just go with the flow and make it look so easy. I was under the impression that we didn‟t need human blood to become part of Booker‟s vampire clan.” “We don‟t.” Zoe seemed indifferent. “What‟s on your mind?” Paige got the distinct impression that Zoe wasn‟t going to coddle her. 157

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“I lied to you,” she said. Zoe didn‟t speak. Instead she sat very still with expectant eyes. “The reason I chose to drink the cocktail instead of letting Rider bite me is not because I don‟t want him.” Paige lowered her gaze, fiddling with a loose thread on the hem of her shirt. “I have to confess—the biting thing terrifies me. I knew as his mate, at one point, he‟d want me to feed on him like Booker does you, and the thought of actually biting someone, well, I just can‟t wrap my mind around it.” “You said it sounded erotic,” Zoe recalled. “Did it get too real?” “Yes…at first it did sound thrilling. But when we got right down to it and Rider asked if I was ready, I couldn‟t go through with the biting part. I‟m sorry I didn‟t tell you the truth straight away.” Hauntingly deep, blue eyes stared back at her in uncomfortable silence. Paige hoped Zoe would understand. Watching her, Booker and Rider engage in the biting had eased some of Paige‟s fear, and almost losing Rider to Erin had been an eye-opener. Moreover, the ease in which Zoe permitted Rider to feed on her had ignited a desperate urge to do the same. Paige wanted Zoe to help her make the transition into that intimate world between two mates, but had no idea how to ask. “Watching us last night probably didn‟t help then, did it?” “Au contraire! That‟s what made me take a closer look at my fear. I was utterly captivated and had never seen anything so incredibly sensual. And how you generously let Rider share in that…you‟ve completely embraced their world.” “Booker asked me to ease his suffering…anguish brought on by your reluctance. You cannot tease a man like him. And 158

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believe me, it was very easy giving to Rider, he is very sweet…and hot.” “Yes…he is.” “Are you having second thoughts then?” Zoe asked. Paige nodded. “I just don‟t know how to go about undoing the hurt I may have caused Rider.” “Oh, okay. So you want me to help you…is that it?” “Would you…can you?” Paige felt hopeful. “I don‟t want to cause friction in your relationship with Booker. I‟m not sure how he feels about me right now. He sounded a bit ticked that I refused his friend and pointed out that I wouldn‟t get a second chance.” “Yeah, you didn‟t score any points with him over that. But…” Zoe continued. “Rider may be open to reconciliation if approached properly.” Renewed excitement sparked in Paige‟s spirit. “What makes you think that?” “Well…” Zoe let out a playful laugh. “On our way out the door, he did mention begging and he had a lot to offer a woman. He sure spoke the truth. Still, you rejected him. How badly do you want him back?” “I‟m not averse to some mild begging,” she said with a smile. “There‟s something else.” “What‟s that?” “Will you help me get over my fear of the biting?” Paige asked. “Maybe stay in the room with me for the first one?” “Paige!” Zoe laughed again, openly amused. “The first time is very intimate. Are you sure you want someone watching during your first bite?” “I want you to make sure I don‟t chicken out. I‟d feel awful if I let Rider down again.” Zoe‟s expression softened and Paige felt a huge weight lift from her. “Okay. After everyone has gone to sleep for the day, we 159

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will approach the guys on this matter and take it from there.” Paige cast a glance around. The pack had begun to wind down, rolling out their sleeping bags on the floor. The massage parlor would remain closed while they needed space to house their members. “Where are the guys anyway?” “Outside,” Zoe replied. “They went on a run for blood foods and Booker said he‟d rather wait until the female scene settled before coming in. He had a run in with Hannah last night.” “Really? I thought she‟d left. Her daughter had taken the first flight back east.” “Seems that Hannah has designs on my man.” Zoe‟s eyes flashed with rage. “Is that why you went for a ride?” “Yeah. I felt Booker could‟ve done a better job fending her off.” “He doesn‟t strike me as the type to get rough with the ladies.” Zoe shot her a hot look. “Hannah is anything but a lady!” “Relax.” She placed a comforting hand on Zoe‟s shoulder, knowing full well that if Hannah crossed Zoe‟s path there‟d be hell to pay. “I‟m on your side. I have no doubt that Booker has eyes for only you.” “He made that quite clear when he tracked me down.” A slight grin tugged the corners of her mouth. “I‟m sure he did,” Paige said. **** Booker sat on his parked Harley, one leg casually bent over the seat, when Zoe walked outside. His gorgeous, long hair shimmered in the early morning sunlight and he wore dark 160

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sunglasses. The sun did seem awfully bright, causing her to squint. Paige followed timidly behind as they approached the two men. Rider, also wearing shades, was perched on his motorcycle with booted feet propped on the handlebars, leaning back on bent elbows braced on the leather seat. They epitomized the definition of cool and had the character to back it up. “Hey, beautiful.” Rider flashed Zoe a dazzling smile. He appeared less tense this morning. “Hi, Rider.” She reached out and touched his hand while strolling past. “Everyone crash yet?” Booker asked, holding out his arms with a beckoning nod toward Zoe. “Seems that way.” She moved into his welcoming embrace, touching her lips to his. “Good morning, Rider,” Paige said in greeting. Rider nodded his hello, outwardly aloof toward Paige. “Paige has something to tell you, Rider,” Zoe told him, cutting to the chase. She heard a slight gasp of panic from behind and grinned. “You‟re wicked, sugar.” Booker laughed. She turned around to face Paige and Rider, drawing Booker‟s arms around her waist and resting her head against his chest. Paige shot her an I‟ll-get-you-later look and Zoe laughed. Rider lifted his sunglasses, placing them atop his head. “What‟s up?” “Well…” Paige began, shifting her weight nervously. “I‟ve been thinking about your offer.” “You mean my previous offer,” Rider interjected. “Yes, that.” She tucked a wayward strand of hair behind one ear, then met his unwavering gaze. “I didn‟t mean to offend you by taking the vodka instead of your bite.” “I‟m over it.” 161

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Wow, Rider sounds truly put off, Zoe thought. Maybe I did the wrong thing bringing Paige out here. Get to the point, Paige! Paige squared her shoulders as if prepared to give a solid explanation. “I‟m not averse to begging!” The words came flying out, taking everyone by surprise. Several tense moments of silence followed. Rider gave Zoe an admonishing look to which she countered with a sheepish smile and shrug. “Playing matchmaker, Zoe?” His dark eyes shimmered with mischief. She felt Booker nip her ear from behind. “Did you put her up to this?” he whispered. “She‟s a nervous wreck.” His breath feathering her neck sent chills down her arms. “No,” Zoe replied quietly. “She asked me to help.” An easy smile swept Rider‟s previously hard expression into a more yielding one. “I‟m listening.” “I‟ve been holding back,” Paige told him. “I‟ve always been the more conservative partner in Night Brigade. Zoe leaps, then looks. I‟m more cautious. I have never been more drawn to a man than I am to you, but the truth is I am terrified of the biting part. It seemed so much easier drinking the cocktail than biting another human being.” She paused to take a deep breath. “I wasn‟t so much afraid to become a vampire because Zoe had done it and she seems fine. However, watching the three of you earlier made me realize what I am missing.” “Yeah…it‟s pretty hot.” A reminiscent smile brightened his face. He glanced at Zoe, then back at Paige. “So you‟re not Ms. Independence as you led me to believe?” Rider shifted his position to sit upright, seemingly more interested. “Or perhaps now that you‟re one of us you‟ve had a change of heart? Which is it?” “A little of both, I guess,” she replied. “I did value my independence, especially after my divorce from that 162

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cheating bastard. But yes, I am experiencing heightened needs since drinking the vodka mix.” “What do you want now? Do you even know?” Rider leaned forward with a piercing stare. Paige stepped up to him. “I do know. I want you…if you‟ll give me a second chance…please? I‟m sorry if I hurt you, but this happened very fast and I was afraid of getting hurt again.” “I felt we‟d connected that night on the dance floor, but then you turned me away,” he said. “We did connect.” Her eyes brimmed with tears. “I got scared. Then when you went upstairs with Erin I thought—” “That I was like all the other men you‟ve known,” he interrupted. “Been looking a long time for a mate, can‟t blame me for checking her out when you turned me down. But I‟m more selective than you think.” A soft blush colored her cheeks. “I can see now, that you are a man of integrity. I‟ve never known anyone like you and I want to become your life mate by blood. The thought of you with another woman made me ill. Something in my soul felt lost. I knew then that I had made a huge mistake.” “So you felt ill watching me with Zoe last night?” “Oh, no, not with her. That was entirely different because it was a threesome thing with Booker. I just meant with Erin because she…well, she‟s not like Zoe. I love Zoe like a sister.” “You certainly have a persuasive way about you.” “Is that a yes?” Rider did a scrutinizing once over of Paige. “You should know that your power, even as my mate, will never parallel Zoe‟s. As Booker‟s chosen female, she will always reign supreme within our clan. Booker was first to drink so he‟s the leader.” “As it should be,” Paige said. “Zoe came up with the idea 163

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to start this group and masterminded the plan. I‟d never make a power play on her.” “Then yes, I will take you as my mate.” Sensing her concerns, he added, “I won‟t ever hurt you.” Booker spoke up. “I doubt you‟ll feel any ill side effects again since you already crossed the plane. Now you‟re in for the good part.” “I have but one request,” Paige began, looking humbly away from Booker. “Not that I deserve to make any demands after rejecting your first invitation. But I would like Zoe to be in the room during our first bite.” Rider cast Zoe a quizzical glance. “She wants me to make sure she doesn‟t chicken out again,” Zoe told him. “Oh.” He laughed. “Got me excited there, thought maybe I was getting another threesome. I‟m cool with that. So…when do you want to make this happen,” he asked Paige. “Is now too soon?” she replied. “I‟d rather do it while everyone else is sleeping.” Rider slid off his bike. “Let‟s get it on.” He gave Zoe a wink. “Sure ya don‟t wanna have another threesome?” “Maybe another time.” Zoe half-laughed.

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Chapter Nine

“Y

ou have some catching up to do,” Booker told Paige as they settled into her bedroom. “Zoe and the others have fed on human blood, making them extremely powerful. I want to be sure you‟re vampire status has matured before we take on Steel.” Paige nodded in compliance, willing to do whatever it took to enter the seductive world she‟d witnessed only hours earlier. “Zoe and I will sit over here as quiet spectators while you and Rider do your thing.” He walked to a far corner where an upholstered loveseat had been placed against the wall. Rider sat on the edge of the bed, wearing only black leather riding pants, ready and waiting. Paige had been longing for his touch since their hot tryst the day Booker had gone after Zoe. And even more since witnessing the steamy encounter last night.” She went to him and he laid her down. “Any second thoughts?” he asked, brushing the hair from her neck. “No…will it hurt?” He nodded. “Only for a few seconds before euphoria kicks in.” Chills raced up her spine as his teeth grazed her skin, her heart pounded in her ears. Paige felt fear rise again, but 165

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choked it back, knowing that Zoe would surely hold her down if she tried to bolt. Not that she wanted to. She wanted Rider in the worst way, but that last rush of panic had been what caused her to deny him the first time. Sliding her hands into his hair, she turned her head and closed her eyes, waiting for the pivotal moment when Rider staked his claim on her heart. She felt him getting ready to bite. Her fingers clutched handfuls of those soft chocolate curls seconds before his teeth pierced her neck. Sharp, stinging pain made her gasp, but was quickly followed by a wave of pleasure like Paige had never experienced. A sudden ache to join with him raced through her entire body. Instinctively her legs locked behind his waist, pulling him closer. Rider groaned, drawing heavily on her blood. His voracious sucking intensified Paige‟s carnal desire. The unexpected urge to taste his blood, sink her teeth into his male flesh dominated her. Yet she waited until he took his fill. Catapulted into another sphere where both pleasure and pain delivered an indescribable high, she relaxed, letting herself fly high above the clouds. The sky appeared red and she felt unbelievably light. A second, more powerful surge of bliss enveloped her body immediately followed by a forceful climax. Stunned beyond belief that his bite carried such potency, Paige moaned and writhed beneath him. Rider eased back, their eyes met and she saw the crushing need in his soul for her bite. “That was amazing,” she murmured between ragged breaths. “Yes…” He licked his lips. “It is.” The moment had arrived for her to conquer her more prevalent fear—biting him. She made a quick decision to take that step before her euphoria waned. They rolled over so that Paige was on top. She straddled his waist on bent 166

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knees. Her gaze wandered down his softly haired chest and well-toned abs. He looked even better than the first time. Without further delay, she lowered her head and nibbled along his skin until finding the pulsing vein in his neck. Her mouth began to water and she felt pressure around her canines which surprised her somewhat. However, in her heightened state, she was able to dismiss the new sensations. I can do this. I want this, she told herself, then bit down. What came next dazed her is if she‟d been suddenly taken underwater. A jolt of power seized her as his blood spurted into her mouth and warmed her throat. She felt faint, but managed to hold on, then felt Rider‟s arms encircle her as if he understood. Lovingly he held her, his body shuddered in fierce arousal and she steadily drank her fill, delighting in the phenomenon occurring between them. Paige heard Booker and Zoe leave the room. The realization that she‟d fully crossed over felt uniquely peaceful. No more fear. Her anxiety had dissipated, leaving only awareness in its place. She‟d conquered life and death with one, extraordinarily sensual act. **** “You‟re amazing,” Booker said when he and Zoe had returned to their room. “How‟d you get her to do it?” Zoe smiled up at him. “She wanted to do it all along. I simply opened the window to allow her fear to escape.” “By letting her view that wicked bite you laid on me?” He gave her a sexy wink. “Mm…” Her hand touched his point of invasion. “That was awesome. I thought perhaps Paige might benefit by seeing what she was missing. I knew she and Rider belonged together. You helped her along, too, by inviting Rider to join us. That was incredible.” 167

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“How‟d you like that?” “You made it feel very natural and I enjoyed the extreme sensuality. Talk about feeling safe—it was awesome.” “Well done. I‟m pleased that you graciously eased his torment.” Booker moved behind her as she stood before the mirror, brushing the tangles from her hair. “I thought vampires didn‟t cast a reflection,” she muttered, puzzled that theirs was clearly visible. “We aren‟t dead,” he said, letting his lips brush her neck. “I think that only applies to the undead.” “Oh…” She sighed with half-closed eyes, watching through the mirror as he lifted her shirt overhead, then flung it to the floor. His long hair fell around her breasts in shiny spirals as he dropped his head to her shoulder—kissing— teasing with playful bites. Then those long, slender fingers delicately flitted over her nipples, drawing an ache from her core. She loved his hands—powerfully masculine, but not at all beefy—the talented hands of a guitarist. How she longed to watch him play one day and wondered if he would. Surely the music in his soul oozed passion as did he. Deftly he worked the buttons of her leather pants loose, then pushed them over her hips along with her string bikini panties. Zoe kicked them free, watching intently as he stripped from his shirt. Reaching behind her, she undid the fly to his jeans, releasing the long, hard male sex she hungered for. Booker circled her slowly, rubbing his body against hers while his hands swept over her as if they had entered their own type of dance. She could hear music from the stereo in the background as he maneuvered his body in that unique style of his. Feathery touches and kisses randomly caressing her skin. Practically coiling around her like a python—slow—calculated—entrancing. He possessed a distinctive flair—a level of class that captured her heart with his ultra-smooth moves. 168

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Only this time no garments separated their naked bodies. His lips brushed her face with deep affection, gliding over her forehead, eyes, nose, and eventually kissing the corners of her mouth before letting his tongue slide between parted lips. She relaxed in his strong arms, watching in the mirror as he lowered his head to take one nipple at a time into his warm, moist mouth. Watching and feeling his delicious actions at the same time was without a doubt mind-blowing. Those skilled hands left no part of her untouched. Her breathing became jagged as the heat inside mounted. “I want to feel you,” she barely whispered. Booker eased around to embrace her from behind. Her eyes followed his hands as they owned her—drifting over her breasts, then slowly across her midriff and downward to stroke between her legs. She moaned softly while leaning into him, barely able to hold her eyes open. Gently he covered her hands with his while bracing them on the dresser to her front. “Then let‟s turn up the heat,” he purred, seconds before sliding into her. She gasped at the magnitude of him. Clearly their unique encounter had left him burning for more. Their eyes met in the mirror. His seductively hot expression enthralled her. Naturally pouty lips were softly parted. Heavy eyes glazed with passion stared back at her. With each thrust, the intense pleasure on his face turned her on even more. He flattened one hand over her lower stomach below her navel, holding her steady while making wild love. He held nothing back and unleashed blazing power over her until she screamed for release. “Mm…angel,” he murmured, watching her in the mirror as she climaxed in his arms. A ripple of spasms rocked her body. “You are so beautiful when you come…” He repeatedly drove his rigid cock into her from behind— 169

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filling—stroking—satisfying her deepest urges. “Ah…yeah…” His words rode a heavy sigh as he jerked forward, flooding her with his emission. The delectable warmth of his seed reaching deep inside her body sent a rush of emotion through her. Even though conception was unlikely, especially at her age, she did enjoy the deeper connection of his life force flowing inside. Tears slid down the sides of her cheeks, overwhelmed by his sexual prowess. Reaching back, she wrapped her arms about his neck as he held her tightly. They didn‟t move for what felt like endless minutes—completely rapt in bliss. Booker nuzzled her cheek with his, then kissed her neck. Sweat trickled down her face, but she couldn‟t tell if it was his, hers or both. Their soaked strands of hair mingled in a tangled mess over her shoulders and breasts. Zoe stole a glimpse into the mirror to burn the image of them locked in this intimate embrace in her mind forever. A peculiar phenomenon appeared in the reflective glass—waves of heat as those rising from a hot tarred road radiated around them. She stared—mystified. “Do you see that?” “Yeah…you are fucking hot.” He had repositioned his arms around her protectively while they came down from the high. She never wanted to leave this moment. “I wish we could remain here like this forever.” She sighed dreamily. “In my thoughts this is how I see you always. Wild…free…mysteriously alluring and joined with me,” he said soft and low. Sweeping her into his arms, he carried her to the bed. “Sleep, pretty angel, so we can enjoy the moon.” “The sunlight is beginning to bother you, isn‟t it?” He lay beside her after drawing the shades and smiled adoringly. “Yeah, since taking your blood, I have noticed 170

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more intense changes. And you?” “Today was the worst yet. It pained my eyes to be outside this morning. Why do you suppose we exhibit some of the traditional vampire myths but not all?” “My guess is because we are still very much human. I still enjoy smoking, eating regular food and most of all making love to you.” “Mm, yes.” She agreed with a deep, relaxing breath. “Do you think we will completely evolve and become vulnerable to the said ways of killing vampires?” Booker lovingly petted her hair. “No, there had been no mention of that in the family journals. Only that the vampire men had died by swordfish poisoning, but didn‟t specify how the toxin entered their bodies. For some reason we have a nasty aversion to the things.” “I guess the women didn‟t convert then?” “Doesn‟t seem so…since none are still around. And Rider said the books had been written from a woman‟s point of view which indicates they outlived the men. As documented, the code had been carved into the bottle by one of the men. Not sure how the last one got taken out once he knew about the fish.” “Where were they from?” “Maine.” “Maybe they were fishermen and it was an accident,” Zoe said. Booker let out a light laugh. “Good point. I think that knowing what I do, fishing would be my last choice of jobs.” She reached up and stroked his face, adoring everything about him. “Not everyone is cunning like you.” “I think I‟ve met my match,” he said with a wink.

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the window, she saw the shades had been lifted to reveal a stunning full moon. Silvery streaks of light danced across the floor in celebration that night had arrived. Booker stood beside the window, appearing statuesque in the moonlight with his impressive height and those magnificent locks tumbling down his back. His scent wafted across the room riding a cool night breeze floating through the open window. As always, he smelled inviting and freshly showered. She noticed he‟d changed into a fresh pair of jeans and shirt. The faded denim clung to his long legs and tight butt. Lying there, she visually took him in. He had the sexiest legs she‟d ever seen on a man and a nice ass, too. Silver grommets ran vertically from his hip all the way to his black boots. Black leather strips interlacing the metal rings formed X‟s which trailed along the outer seam, down to the hem where the ties dangled around his ankles. Zoe sucked in a sharp breath at the sight of him. “Hey, gorgeous,” she said softly. “How long have you been awake? Or did you even sleep?” “Ah, my night angel awakes.” He turned toward her, then walked to the bed. “I rose about an hour ago, got cleaned up. Just waiting for my love to join me.” “I love the jeans.” She ran one hand along his taut thigh. “Figured it was time to wash my others. I usually find an out-of-the-way laundry to toss „em in for a scrub.” “We can wash them here if you want.” He nodded, looking her over with cool eyes as she leisurely stroked him. Propped on one elbow, Zoe let her hand wander upward, over the prominent bulge, then over his rippling abs. “Nice shirt, too.” A cobalt blue, button-down shirt hung open, unbuttoned to the waist of his jeans where he‟d tucked in the shirttail. He had cuffed the sleeves up to his elbows. Casual 172

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and wildly alluring, he continually drew her deeper into his aura. “Do you mind waiting a bit longer so I can shower?” Booker helped her up. “Not at all. You go right ahead and I‟ll be here when you come out.” “What‟s on tonight‟s agenda?” she asked while picking up her clothes. “I want to test the females‟ blood to determine their strength. Steel is most likely on the prowl or planning their next move. I feel certain that last night‟s feeding frenzy accelerated the maturity of your pack. They are getting restless again.” Zoe wriggled into her leathers pants. “How will we keep them under control tonight?” “I thought you were going to shower,” he said with arched brows. “Oh…” She let out a light laugh. “It‟s the only way I can wash my leather when on the road. I shower with them on and wear them wet. Ensures a perfect fit.” His gaze slid over her in a way that made her stomach flutter. “So…do you have a plan for tonight?” she asked, doing her best to function under his intense inspection. “Recreation,” he replied. “A night out at the club should release that excess energy they have and we secured enough blood foods to feed them. They should be better able to control their lust for blood soon.” “Are we going back to Leather Ladies?” “We can go anywhere you like. I know you have some bad memories there,” he said. Zoe considered her options. She also had fantastic memories at the club dancing with Booker. “I won‟t bow to fear. Nobody is going to erase the good time I had with you that night. You have incredible moves…a style that drives 173

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me wild. Leather Ladies had always been my favorite club. Flaming Steel isn‟t taking that away from me. This is my turf.” Pride shone in his eyes. “I love the way you think.” He kissed her sweetly as she passed him on her way to the bathroom.

“I hope someone is going to clean this shit up!” Zoe snapped upon walking into the kitchen. She swung around and marched into the main room. “Nobody is leaving tonight until that bloody mess in the kitchen is taken care of. Looks like you slaughtered someone in there.” “Sorry, Zoe,” came Erin‟s hangdog response. “We‟ll take care of it.” She grabbed another woman by the hand and they swaggered into the kitchen, giggling and carrying on. “Your pack is gearing up,” Booker commented. His gaze swept the room, taking in all the hungry eyes. Zoe stood beside him. “Yeah, we have a long night ahead of us.” “Get their attention,” he said. “Time to check their blood.” Placing two fingers at the corners of her mouth, Zoe let out a shrill whistle. Instantly the loud chatter in the room ceased and everyone present focused on her. “Listen up, girls,” Zoe began. “Tonight we are going clubbing, but first Booker wants to check your blood. So without bringing the house down, can you all manage to line up in orderly fashion and wait your turn?” One by one they formed a double row, openly excited over their new status. “I will slice a cut across your wrist,” Booker told them. “The time it takes to heal will determine your strength. When we go after Steel, I want everyone in this group resistant to injury.” 174

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Zoe noticed Paige hanging back with Rider, so she made her way over to them while Booker did the blood tests. “You have a nice glow on,” Zoe said with a wry grin. “Did ya have a good day?” “Yeah.” Paige smiled. “I had trouble falling asleep though, with all the banging going on in the next room.” “We were rearranging furniture.” Zoe laughed. “Must have been heavy with all that moaning and groaning I heard,” Paige teased. Then they both laughed. “Booker had some unresolved…issues, from our bite last night.” Zoe smirked. “You getting your blood checked?” “Not in front of these she-wolves. Besides, I fed later than they did. I‟ll give it a little more time, then maybe the guys can check mine in private.” “Paige, I never knew you were so shy.” “This vampire thing has been harder for me than everyone else. I don‟t know why.” She looked up at Rider. “But it‟s getting much easier.” Rider gave her a short, sweet kiss. “Don‟t worry, babe. My blood is strong—much stronger than those bar mongers the ladies fed on last night. I have every confidence you‟ll be ready when we go after Flaming Steel.” “And when is that going to be?” Zoe asked. “If everyone is ready we‟ll take them down tomorrow night. The moon is full…a perfect time to fight.” “Awesome.” Zoe clenched her fists at her side. “I can‟t wait to make those bastards pay for what they did to me…especially Mott.” Her adrenaline rose at the thought, bringing back that tight knot in her gut. She wanted the fight. “Okay, Night Brigade,” Zoe called their attention once more. “When we go out tonight, behave yourselves. No feeding on men. By the looks of things, you‟ve all had 175

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enough to satisfy your appetite. Anyone gets out of hand at the club and you‟ll answer to me—I assure you it won‟t be pretty.” “We‟ll be good girls tonight,” Erin assured her.

Leather Ladies was packed after the Night Brigade crew rolled in. Women of many shapes and sizes filtered into the club, scattering throughout, even to the upper level balcony where strippers began their dances. Not many clubs in the immediate area could hold such a large crowd—another reason she‟d decided to conquer the shadow of her last visit. Zoe had always enjoyed the electric atmosphere of the place. She watched the first dancer, adorned with multiple colored veils prance down a flight of stairs to a central platform. The young, raven-haired beauty swung her slender hips, flipping her long hair tempestuously as she danced barefoot. From there she teasingly took one step at a time, dropping the veils until reaching the catwalk on the ground floor. Her appearance reminded Zoe of an actress she‟d seen in an old movie performing before a king. Zoe noticed that Booker seemed completely engrossed in the girl‟s performance. “She‟s pretty good, huh?” “What‟s that, sugar?” His gaze remained on the dancer as she stripped completely. “The girl…she‟s an ugly dog, huh?” “Yeah…” Booker muttered. “Ugh,” Zoe huffed, then left the table. **** Rider nudged Booker with his elbow. “Your woman left the table.” “I know.” Booker laughed, his gaze followed Zoe across 176

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the room. “Uh, I think she‟s pissed, man.” “Most likely she is.” “Are you enjoying that jailbait on the stage so much to let Zoe wander off?” Rider pressed. “That skinny little thing?” Booker curled his lip. “Nah, I just wanted to fire Zoe up.” “Now why the hell would you want to do that?” Rider was clearly lost. Booker grinned. “You‟ll see.” He glanced at Rider and Paige who stared back at him curiously, then his eyes found Zoe again. Her fiery temper set him ablaze and he longed to see the heat she could generate when antagonized. Some might think him cruel for deliberately rousing her. However, he wanted Zoe to see her power for herself. She still held back at times and he knew the changes in her body felt confusing—most notably today when she saw the heat in the mirror. My woman is only beginning to come into her own. I want her to feel her full potential before taking on our enemies. He knew that as his chosen mate, she could rain hell on Flaming Steel and even bring him to his knees begging for her bite—if she‟d simply allow herself to unleash that rage inside. Booker pointed to Zoe as she worked her way toward the dance floor. “Watch,” he told Rider and Paige. In addition to the stage for erotic dancers, the club had built a dance floor around the raised catwalk for patrons to enjoy dancing around the strippers. The platform was high enough to ensure the general public didn‟t obscure the view of those seeking to watch only the paid performers. Booker leaned back in his chair when the house band launched into a heavy metal tune with a strong bluesy backbeat. The song was passionate with powerful vocals and hard, driving rhythm. He couldn‟t take his eyes from her once she started 177

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to move. All the caged fury in her soul began to surface. Booker knew he‟d only been the catalyst. Zoe began swaying to the music—not just her hips—her entire body grooved in snake-like style. He saw the intense emotion on her pretty face. She closed her eyes, swept a hand over her hair, then raked it over her body in sweeping, sensual curves across and down her breasts and stomach. Slowly, hauntingly she danced as if nobody else were in the room. She had become one with the beat and the energy around her. He watched—utterly mesmerized by her moves—each one flowing into the next. Swinging around in a tight circle, her hands slid down her sides in a seductive caress that made his groin ache. She tossed her head back, sending that lustrous mane of gold cascading over her slender back. “She‟s so fucking hot,” he muttered. “Yeah…” Rider agreed. Even Paige couldn‟t deny it. “Wow…Zoe is so free and untamed.” “There—” Booker pointed toward Zoe‟s boots. Heat radiated from the floor around her in visible waves. He wanted to breathe her in—absorb her burning passion. Yet he couldn‟t move and sat spellbound by her charm, not wanting to miss a thing. She had become the most powerful seductress in the club and didn‟t even know it. The song seemed endless as Booker got lost in her silent storm. She held nothing back, pouring herself out to the world—her passion and rage—everything in her tumultuous soul. She owned it—owned the very air he breathed—owned him. By the end of the song, Zoe had generated so much heat that people around her noticed the rippling aura enveloping her. They, too, appeared captivated by the unknown vixen in their midst. She opened her eyes and looked across the room, searching for him, he knew. Their eyes met. A 178

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knowing smile touched her lips. “Catch you later,” he told his friends, then slipped into the crowd. Zoe felt hot to touch when he reached her. “Woman…” He pulled her to his chest. “I knew you had fire from the day we met.” “You baited me.” “Can you blame me?” He brushed his lips over hers. “You‟ve been holding back.” She half-laughed, half-sighed. “That wasn‟t very nice.” “I never claimed to be nice.” He searched her eyes—saw the sparks in their depths. Before she could utter another word, his mouth covered hers in a sweltering kiss. He sensed some resistance at first, felt her ire over his feigned interest in the dancing girl. Still, he kissed her deeply, letting his tongue taste the sweetness of her mouth, until her arms wound about his neck. Abruptly, she interrupted the kiss. “Don‟t ever bait me again.” Booker slanted a hot look at her. “Don‟t hold back on me.” With an easy hop, she leapt into his arms, wrapping her sexy legs around his waist. Instantly he gripped her fine ass and shifted her into a secure position against him. His rockhard cock strained against his jeans—pressing between her thighs. “Wanna go for a quick ride?” he asked with a spirited wink.

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Chapter Ten

“H

ow did the blood testing go with the pack? I never got a chance to ask.” Zoe watched from her position, lying on the bed with an appreciative sigh as Booker pulled on his jeans. “Good,” he said, turning to face her while tucking the thin cotton shirt below the waistline. “Is that a strategic thing you do…leaving your shirt unbuttoned down to your waist to turn women on?” A flattered smile tugged the corners of his lips. “No, angel. I simply don‟t like restricting clothes which is why I rarely wear leather.” “Oh yeah.” She sighed longingly. “You like clothes that are easy to move in.” He leaned over and brushed his lips over hers, making direct eye contact. “And if I recall…you like my moves.” She felt the heat washing over her and changed the subject. They would never leave the bedroom if he started his teasing again. “You‟re up early tonight, it‟s still light out.” “There‟s still one woman who needs her blood strength checked,” he said. “Ah, Paige. That‟s right. She wants it done in private.” “Fussy woman,” he commented. “Paige is more conservative than most of us, but very 180

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intelligent and organized. I love having her as my partner in Night Brigade. She takes on a lot of duties so if she wants to be a little fussy, we can give her that,” Zoe said with an easy smile. Booker laid a gentle hand alongside her face. “I wasn‟t insulting her. I‟d not put down your best comrade as you would never disrespect Rider.” “They make a nice couple.” “Yeah…just hope she doesn't change her mind again. When I went after you, he took off for the west coast. My decision to go after Mott worked out well for all of us, it seems, even for your friend Erin. She took to vampirism with ease.” Zoe laughed. “Yeah, Erin is a wild one and a great influence on the others. I am beginning to see true leadership qualities in her.” “Maybe she can take over this chapter when we leave.” “Why would she need to do that? We have Paige.” “Who now belongs to Rider,” Booker reminded her. “We aren‟t gonna hang out here forever.” “Oh…” Zoe hadn‟t considered their future beyond the impending battle. “Where will we be going then?” He sat down beside her. “I‟ve been thinking about setting up an official camp for your comrades to call home. Rider has the huge estate in Maine. I doubt he‟d sell the house, but the grounds span a massive area of wilderness that we could liquidate, and perhaps buy something on the west coast. Much better riding weather out there.” “That would be nice. I‟ve never liked the isolation of living in the country and I‟m not thrilled about going back east except to clear out my apartment.” “You don‟t own it?” he asked. “No, just rent. I didn‟t want to put down roots after finally gaining my freedom. I moved to New York for the 181

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job, which I‟m sure by now my machine is full of messages. Not sure what to do about that.” “Just let it go,” he said matter-of-fact like. She tilted her head, staring back at him. “Yeah…I guess I can. There were no open contracts when I—when you stole me away. I had just finished a huge wedding that night and had cleared my schedule for a couple weeks, hoping to spend more time with—” Booker put a finger to her lips. “Just let it go, sugar. I see your mind starting to race.” With a relenting smile, she nodded. “Okay.” “Why don‟t you get your sexy self dressed so we can check on Paige and get everyone organized?” “Are we going after Flaming Steel tonight?” Zoe hoped he‟d say yes. “Is that why you‟re up early? You have an ominous air about you today.” “If Paige is safe to ride, then yeah, tonight is the night.” He glanced out the window. “The sun will set soon. Last night was the first phase of the full moon. Tonight nature will howl and we will answer the call.” “I‟m surprised they haven‟t made a move since knowing our location.” “I‟m sure they‟ve been lurking, but couldn‟t find another opening to strike. They are cowards and don‟t like direct confrontation.” Zoe sensed an untamed ferocity in Booker‟s spirit that felt electrifying. His demeanor had taken on a serious character—a stark reminder of his indomitable nature—the very thing that had drawn her to him from the start. She slipped out of bed, found her leather jeans on the floor, then retrieved a black tank top and leather jacket from the stack of clothes Paige had delivered the other day. Her apparel incurred a raised eyebrow from Booker. In two long strides, he stood before her, staring down with a heated 182

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expression. With a tenderness not expected from a man of his stature, he lifted her hair from beneath the collar, fanning it around her shoulders while openly admiring her darker appearance. “You look ready.” His voice carried the lust for payback she felt raging in her soul. “I am.”

“Come in,” Paige said, when Zoe knocked on her bedroom door. “We‟ve come to take your blood,” Zoe teased as she and Booker entered. Paige sat beside Rider in the loveseat, he with his booted feet propped on the windowsill. Anxiety flitted through Paige‟s eyes. She was obviously worried that hers might be the only blood not ready to endure battle. “Did you feed on Rider today?” Zoe asked. A blush fell over Paige‟s face. “Yes…if you must know. Is nothing sacred with you two?” “Just checking. I don‟t want anything to happen to you tonight.” Booker whipped out his switchblade and walked over to Paige. “Give me your hand.” Zoe watched with interest as he made a quick, precise slice across Paige‟s wrist that seemed painless as Paige never winced. Immediately Rider put his mouth to the wound, drinking the blood with zeal. He hadn‟t been feeding long before he lifted his head, then licked his lips. “My blood has made her strong.” Rider held out Paige‟s arm for them to see. “I only got a couple swallows before the wound closed up.” “Perfect.” Booker stepped toward the open window. Zoe stood beside him, taking in the beautiful sunset. 183

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Streaks of gold, pink and blue laced the sky as the sun dipped below the western horizon. Booker seemed immersed in thought, gazing into the distance. Lines on his face were hard and his eyes glimmered with something she didn‟t quite recognize. Zoe had never seen this side of him and she wondered what he‟d been like the morning he rode into Flaming Steel‟s camp to rescue her. Though the recollection of his rescue was still somewhat murky, she did recall him carrying her out and the onlookers standing back in a peculiar type of reverence. He turned to her, framing her face with his hands. “When we go in tonight, use your bite if you must kill, but do not swallow their blood. I will not have my woman tainted by their weakness. Let your comrades feed.” “I have no desire for anyone‟s blood but yours,” she told him.

Eager eyes burned on them when they joined the pack downstairs. Their hunger evident, the women of Night Brigade had been astutely prepped for this night, as if Booker had orchestrated the entire process. However, Zoe felt that everything had uncannily fallen into place just as her relationship with him had done. Nobody in her pack could have even foreseen what they‟d become yet the group had embraced her vision—well, most of them. Their gain was well worth the sacrifice. Better to have power over their foes than excessive numbers that might fall in battle. “Tonight we take down our enemy,” Zoe addressed the clan. “Do we get to feed?” asked Erin. “We have not had any blood foods today.” Zoe cast Booker a perceptive glance. He merely shrugged with a slight grin and arched one brow. She realized he‟d 184

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invoked deeper cravings by withholding the blood they craved. “Take your fill, my sisters,” Zoe told them. She saw Paige watching from across the room. “Leave no man alive who sees your face. Night Brigade will ride in the shadows of night so that Flaming Steel won‟t know what hit them.” “We‟re taking you to dinner, ladies,” Booker added with a sardonic grin. “Enjoy the ride.” A flurry of chatter spread throughout the room as the excitement mounted. Zoe felt her adrenaline rise, relishing the thought of wielding her newfound power over the bullies who‟d nearly killed her. Moreover, she wanted to punish the men who‟d tried to take her away from the one man worthy of her love. She looked up in adoration at Booker and read his thoughts. Time to fight, angel. “Night Brigade…” Zoe summoned her troops in last call. “Partner up and head to your bikes. Follow our lead. They outnumber us by more than two to one, but the bastards have no idea what we can do.” As the women filed out the door and the sound of horsepower split the night, Zoe and Booker united with Rider and Paige. The foursome waited patiently for their pack to get organized. “You ready for this?” Zoe asked Paige. Paige pulled on a studded, leather riding jacket. “Yeah. It‟s been a while since I kicked some ass.” “Ah, you‟ve become spoiled out here in the Midwest then. Time to get your feet wet again,” Zoe said, giving Paige‟s jacket a playful tug. Once all the members had obtained a riding buddy and were waiting out back, Zoe led the way as the four riders moved to front the pack and walked out the rear entrance. Paige locked the door behind them. 185

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Zoe straddled her Softail and pulled on leather riding gloves before throttling the engine. She‟d considered riding on back of Booker‟s, but it had never been her style to be a passenger. Though Paige looked very content and safe perched behind Rider, this was no pleasure cruise. Zoe wouldn‟t permit herself to get cozy behind Booker during this fight. She knew, however, that Paige was still adjusting and felt a sense of relief that her friend would be well protected. Booker led the way. Zoe fell in beside him as they glided onto the highway, gradually picking up speed as they cleared traffic. Within an hour the pack was rolling down the dark interstate under a full moon. She glanced back and saw beams of light glinting off endless chrome. A magnificent sight! The roar of their engines, a cool autumn night and her hotter-than-hell biker stud riding at her side—it didn‟t get much better than this. Occasionally she‟d look over to admire him. His long spirals trailed out behind in the tail wind from beneath a bandana he‟d tied around his head. He looked amazingly at ease, completely natural on his Harley as if he‟d been born for this life. She embraced his cool demeanor. Nothing rattled him. He was hands-down, the most intriguing and alluring man she‟d ever met—and he belonged to her. Almost two hours post departure, Booker led the group off an exit onto rural roads. Flaming Steel would soon realize the error of their stupidity as Night Brigade closed in. They came to a stop at an intersection, Booker pulled in adjacent to her. “I spotted a sentinel at the exit. Steel will be expecting us.” “Good…” Zoe clenched her teeth. “I can‟t wait to see their shock when we take the cocky pricks down.” 186

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“No fear in you, is there, sugar?” He smiled. Zoe didn‟t offer a verbal reply. She gave him a steady wink and smiled. Booker returned her wink, then signaled the group to turn left. No sooner did the warehouse come into view than a swarm of bikers attacked their right flank. Booker shot off ahead with Zoe on his tail. She heard gunshots fired and the sound of metal clashing with metal. They swung around once clear of the chaos, bringing their bikes to a halt. Rider and Paige rolled up beside them. “The first wave, just as I expected, they are attempting a feeble sneak attack.” Booker pointed down the road. “Watch…” Zoe glimpsed at Paige who did her best to smile. They focused on their comrades engaging in hand-to-hand combat with Flaming Steel‟s first line of attack. Erin had parked her bike and stalked through the bedlam with supreme confidence. Once their foes realized the bullets served no use, they began brandishing knives. Erin came face-to-face with a monster of a man wielding a large blade. With one hand, she seized his weapon and winged it out of reach. His eyes widened, clearly surprised by her strength. He made several attempts to subdue her using martial art moves, but Erin deflected his strikes with ease. Pride surged through Zoe. She‟d armed her soldiers well. When Erin‟s opponent had exhausted his skill, he stepped back and stared at her as if in awe. What came next, Zoe knew that none of them would forget. Erin lashed out with one hand, took the man by his throat, then flung him to the pavement. He thrashed about in a desperate struggle to break free. However, his human strength was no match for her immortal lust. Her red hair shimmered in the moonlight as she dropped to her knees and leaned over her prey, holding him down with her legs. His blood-chilling screams 187

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rose above the madness as she tore into his neck with her teeth. From the corner of her eye, Zoe caught Paige wincing at the sight. However, the two men sat motionless, keeping watch for enemy reinforcements while their women took care of this small band who had fatally underrated Night Brigade‟s army. Erin fed greedily until his body ceased flailing about. She stood up, kicked his lifeless form a couple times with her boot, then wiped excess blood from her mouth with one hand before moving on in search for another. He lay in a twisted heap, flesh torn from his bone. Erin had become a viscous killer who showed no mercy. “Wow,” Zoe gasped quietly. “Erin has risen quickly in the ranks.” “Yeah,” Booker agreed. “A valuable ally to your group.” “And a lethal weapon to our enemies,” Zoe added. They kept vigil while the she-vamps made quick work of the men. Flaming Steel had made a grave mistake sending only a quarter of their crew. Now they were about fifty men less in numbers, giving Zoe‟s soldiers an even better edge. She noticed some of the women had double-teamed their opponents simply to feed as not enough men had arrived to slake their appetite. Zoe hadn‟t expected a mass killing on the road. Yet, there had been many things that had surprised her over the past few days. They got what they deserved! Once the first wave of attack had been defeated, Booker motioned for the pack to follow. The compound was only a few hundred feet away now. Night Brigade barged through the gate with engines roaring straight over the two guards. Zoe felt her blood run cold at the sight of the warehouse where Mott had left her for dead. She hoped he was inside, fearing for his pathetic life. 188

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A second line of Steel‟s crew rushed from the building. “Cut the lines,” Booker called to Rider. Instantly Rider disappeared with Paige. Zoe estimated about a hundred men had been sent out to stop them. She swung around to make eye contact with Erin, then made a swirling motion in the air with one hand, signaling Erin to have the women fan out and surround the men. With impressive speed, her warriors parked and leapt from their bikes, then did as commanded. Now fighting at less than two-to-one odds, the females scoped their targets before moving in for the kill. Suddenly the floodlights went out, throwing a pitch-black cover over the grounds. Shadowy silhouettes prowled about. Zoe‟s vision adjusted to the dark quickly, as did her comrades‟ and much faster than their enemies‟ as indicated by the horrific screams filling the air. “Rider got to the power supply. I think your army can handle this group. I wanted to give them the cover of darkness so they didn‟t feel compelled to kill.” Booker grabbed her hand. “Let‟s go.” “The lights are still on inside,” Zoe whispered. “Yeah…” Booker flashed a wicked smile. “I want him to see my face before he dies. If anyone dare get in my way, they‟ll not see tomorrow.” They stalked into the metal building. Trey and Holt looked as if they might try to stop them, but backed away when Booker glowered. “I see you two decided to hide inside and let the others do your dirty work.” Booker sneered. “We do as we‟re told,” Trey replied, taking another step back. “Sounds awful out there, who did you bring?” “Nobody you want to meet.” Booker kept walking, holding Zoe‟s hand in a firm grip. They quickly scaled the grated steps, then marched 189

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toward Mott‟s office. Booker kicked the door open and they burst inside. “Fuck! Damn it all to hell!” Booker scanned the room, flipped the desk, searched every corner and tore doors off cabinets. He spiraled into rage, literally tearing the office to shreds. Large sums of money scattered across the floor. Kicking it with his boot, he swung around, then drove his fist through the wall. “The mother-fucker slithered away.” Zoe spotted her bag that Travis had taken, lying on the floor near the overturned desk. Quickly she snatched it up and peeked inside—everything looked untouched. “No! We can‟t let him go back to New York!” Zoe felt her muscles tighten. “He can hide forever if he makes it back there.” They looked at each other for a fleeting exchange of thought, then bolted from the room and raced across the top floor. Zoe was right behind him as they took the steps in pairs on the way down. When they reached the main entrance, they were forced to stop. Trey was lying on the floor—Erin and another member had him pinned. Erin had a secure bite on his neck while her partner had latched onto his inner thigh beneath torn pants. Booker smirked while looking into Trey‟s terror-stricken eyes. “Told you it was nobody you wanted to meet.” Trey tried to speak, but made only a faint gurgling sound. Zoe felt nothing for the man who‟d handed her over to Mott. She caught site of three of her she-vamps dragging Holt off into the woods. Good riddance to both of you! She and Booker leapt over the three bodies and ran full speed toward their bikes. Flaming Steel members had begun clamoring for their motorcycles to get away. Night Brigade‟s vampires had prevailed with flying colors. Had Steel initially sent out their entire group, they may have suffered fewer casualties. However, their leader had executed poor 190

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judgment by underestimating the forces that roam by night. “There‟s only one major highway out of here,” Booker told Zoe, placing his hands on her shoulders at their bikes. “I know the back roads around. I want you to head out the way we came in, drive straight and I‟ll hopefully cut him off before he hits the interstate. Rider will stay behind and see the clan safely back.” “Okay.” She quickly locked her purse in a saddlebag, then straddled the seat, kicked her Softail into gear and followed him out the gate. Booker signaled for her to keep going as he headed off in a different direction. Alone for the first time since her last encounter with Mott, a wave of apprehension washed over her. She fought it back, reminded herself of her heightened abilities and focused on catching Mott, wherever he might be. While she didn‟t share Erin‟s thirst for blood, Zoe felt the burning desire for revenge rise in her soul. Leaning into the current, she opened to full throttle and turned her bike loose. As the airstream whipped her hair wildly, flashbacks whisked through her mind. Images of Mott overpowering her, the syringe and evil glimmer in his eyes, lying on a cold damp floor as darkness enveloped her—then Booker reaching into that darkness and bringing her back with his blood. In the distance Zoe spotted a lone rider driving at a high rate of speed away from her. It must be Mott…and I’m gaining on him! Her heart raced as the gap began to close. He glanced back, then tried drawing more power from his bike but Zoe had more. I love this bike! Within minutes she‟d gained on him and pulled alongside. Yes, it was Mott trying to make his escape after sending his men on a suicide mission. A stunned expression crossed his face when he saw her beside him. Zoe inched ahead to cut him off. He hit the brakes and did a tail spin as the bike went down on its side. 191

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Zoe put one foot on the road as she swerved outward and around, bringing her bike under control and to a stop. She sprung from the seat, racing toward him as he scrambled to get to his feet. “You fucking prick!” she screamed, delivering a sharp kick to his side before he got up. “You tried to kill me…” Another blow with her boot struck his face. He struggled to recover. “Thought you could gain control of my group…” She clutched his hair, then banged his face off the pavement. “And now you‟re gonna pay…” Zoe growled. “You‟re two thugs are dead, Mott! Taken out by my girls…how does that feel?” Kneeling on the ground, she yanked his head back to see the dread in his eyes. “I bet you didn‟t see that coming.” “Zo-so…stop,” he muttered. “You don‟t want to go to jail.” “Is that what you told Flaming Steel when they thought they had helped kidnap me?” Again, she smacked his face on the road. “Well guess what, Mott? They‟re gone! Most of them are dead and the rest took off. You‟ll never see any of them again and who do you think the feds will be looking for when they find your drug filled warehouse?” He managed to twist his neck far enough to look up at her. “You‟re bloody insane.” He seemed utterly baffled over her supreme strength. “No, Mott…I‟m just really pissed off.” Zoe rammed her elbow into his nose, instantly drawing a rush of blood, which did not appeal to her in the slightest. Nothing about this traitorous murderer appealed to her. “Right now I‟m trying to decide if I should just kill you myself or turn you over to my girls.” “This isn‟t you,” he choked out the words, blood oozed from his mouth. “You aren‟t a killer.” Zoe pressed his face against the road, then lowered her head, speaking through clenched teeth. “You went to great 192

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lengths in order to uncover who I ride with,” she growled. “Do you still want to meet them?” “I—I already did,” he mumbled. His reply threw her off guard, yet she maintained control. “I don‟t want to hear more of your bullshit.” With both hands gripping his hair, she banged his head on the road until he appeared unconscious. Wiping his blood from her hands onto the grassy berm, she stood up and walked a few paces while contemplating her decision. Should I kill him? Have I become a killer? Or perhaps teach him a better lesson and make him suffer at the teeth of my pack. His words haunted her mind. Who could he have possibly met? This is just another one of his head games—a new tactic to manipulate me. I hate him! She‟d had enough and decided to end this now. Turning on her heels to finish what she started, Zoe gasped suddenly when Mott stood before her holding another syringe in hand. “Oh please.” She sighed in disgust and rolled her eyes. “Can‟t you come up with something new for a change? Your heroin will have no effect on me now.” Mott began circling her with a menacing sneer. “How about a little snack, Zo-so?” he taunted. “Perhaps I should say appetizer. Are you fond of swordfish?” Zoe felt her heart race. How does he know? She forced a mocking laugh. “You‟re sick…you need help.” They faced off. By some means, Mott had uncovered this secret, too. She began to wonder if he had bugged her somehow. His insight was more than sheer luck. Enough, she thought. In an attempt to gain the upper hand, Zoe lunged at him, hoping the element of surprise would rise to her advantage. She twisted and leapt, trying to gain a stronghold on him again—using caution to avoid the needle he continually wielded at her in the event he actually did have the fish oil inside. 193

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Mott had learned some new moves, Zoe noticed as they fought. She twirled to land a high kick to his face and knock him back. However, he grabbed her boot, then spun her to the ground. His unexpectedly quick reflex took her off guard. Before she could recover, he threw his weight over her, using his knees to keep her down. Had it not been for the needle, she‟d have easily fought her way out. But her constant need to keep an eye on that syringe divided her concentration. He began stabbing madly at her. She wriggled and squirmed, turning her head sharply, jerking her arms out of range while just barely dodging the toxin he sought to inject. The sound of another bike rapidly approaching caught their attention. Zoe recognized that rumble—she‟d know Booker‟s Harley anywhere. Still, Mott didn‟t lose focus and became even more determined to carry out his plan. His icy green eyes glared down at her as he used more force to pin her arm between his leg and the road. She gripped his hand that held the syringe to stop him from sticking her. They entered a battle of strength as Zoe fought for her life. Everything seemed to be happening at the speed of light, but Zoe was holding her own. She fought back the mental struggle that sought to bind her might. For some reason, Mott had a way of verbally undermining her. Knowing that much of the battle was in her mind, she focused to draw upon her ability to fight instead of letting his head games defeat her first. “Inside this syringe is enough concentrated swordfish oil to make sure you stay dead this time. Your vampire lover won‟t stand a chance in hell of bringing you back.” He let out a sinister laugh. “Her vampire lover won‟t have to,” Booker snarled from behind. In a flash, Mott‟s weight lifted off her and she rolled away 194

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before springing to her feet. “Did that needle touch you?” Booker asked her, with Mott restrained in a fixed headlock. Zoe shook her head vehemently. “I held him off. Thank God you‟re here.” Booker gripped Mott‟s wrist with one hand, then slammed it against his knee to knock the syringe free. He smashed it with his boot, then kicked it across the road. “Now you‟re gonna pay,” Booker told Mott. By the tone of his voice, Zoe knew he‟d not let Mott live this time. She saw indisputable fear grip Mott‟s face seconds before Booker unleashed his wrath. Effortlessly he threw Mott to the ground, sending him skidding across the road. Before Mott could move, Booker was on him again, kicking the shit out of him until Mott begged for mercy between gasps. “Please…” Mott gasped and coughed up blood. “Don‟t kill me. You‟re not a murderer.” “This isn‟t murder.” Booker scowled. “It‟s a fucking mercy killing, you mother-fucker. Nobody touches my woman and lives to tell about it—nobody.” Booker reached down, took Mott by the collar and proceeded to bash him against a nearby tree. Zoe had never witnessed such utter brutality. She stood back, feeling a little dazed yet enthralled over his display of power. Mott looked beaten as Booker tossed him around, throwing punches to his already bloody face. He never stood a chance once Booker had arrived. His unconscious body lay on the side of the road when Booker turned his fiery gaze toward her. “Do you want the pleasure of finishing him off?” Booker asked her. “The thought of his blood in my mouth is revolting,” she replied. “I‟m sorry I didn‟t use my bite to render him powerless.” 195

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“No problem,” he replied, beckoning her to his side. “Can‟t say I blame you.” With one knee on the ground, Booker lifted Mott‟s body far enough to get a solid head lock. Mott began to moan slightly, but not for long. One fast move from Booker‟s muscular arms snapped his neck, ending Mott‟s life. Booker dropped him on the road, then kicked him to the side. “How did he know about the fish?” Zoe asked. She knelt and searched Mott‟s pockets. “If he had a secret contact, then he‟d have taken it with him when he tried to escape.” “Smart thinking,” Booker said. “Check his cell.” “Here.” Zoe held up a small black cell phone Together, they searched the contacts. One name drew a speechless response from both of them. Their eyes met in a staggering moment of silence while absorbing the revelation. Zoe couldn‟t believe it…Hannah!

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Chapter Eleven She laid her head back against the ledge of the tub, letting

the warm, soapy water wash away dirt and blood from her clothes and body. Immediately following their return to the parlor, Zoe headed straight for a bath without a word. She heard the pack falling in downstairs and Paige telling them to simmer down. The voices of Rider and Booker floated up the stairs as they spoke, but she didn‟t try to make out their conversation. I made a critical error in my fight with Mott. She silently chided herself. Letting her guard down when she thought he had been unconscious nearly cost her life. Again, the bastard had taken her off guard. Damn it! She slapped a washcloth against the tub. That’s the third time he gained the upper hand. But he’s dead now…I should feel relieved. However, Zoe felt friction in her spirit. Something deep inside wouldn‟t let her gain peace. Scenes from their battle with Flaming Steel deluged her weary mind. Her soldiers had been ruthless and she couldn‟t be more proud. The way Erin had taken down Trey—Holt getting dragged into the woods by three she-vamps—an awesome show of unyielding ferocity. Zoe felt she‟d had weakened during her fight with Mott. I should have never hesitated! Why didn’t I just kill him when I had the chance? Frustration mounted. The image of him sitting on her, 197

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stabbing crazily with his new weapon, made her stomach turn. It should have never gone that far. I’m smarter than that. Even his death had not brought the resolution she needed. Flaming Steel had suffered enough casualties to never pose a threat again. Yet, an uneasy feeling clawed at her gut. Finding Hannah‟s name listed in Mott‟s contacts had been disturbing, but not enough so to cause the level of tension gripping her now. Closing her eyes, Zoe did her best to let the night‟s trauma fade to the back of her mind. When she needed to sort issues, the best method had always been to slip into the twilight zone where she could hover between worlds. As the chatter below subsided and the women settled in, the parlor began to quiet. Zoe embraced the calm, allowing it to permeate her soul. Booker had astutely recognized her need for solitude and stayed away for the time. Occasionally muffled laughter between him and Rider would drift within her hearing range. She‟d smile, then retreat to her meditative state. Visions danced through her mind—some pleasant— others not. During these periods of heightened intuition, Zoe had often found answers to problems or received some of her most brilliant inspirations. Traveling deeper and deeper into meditation, she became less aware of her physical surroundings and more in tune with the subconscious realm. Angel eyes…don’t let go, Booker‟s silent thoughts trailed through hers. She sighed blissfully, feeling at one with the universe. Tell me who you ride with, Zo-so… Her body tensed slightly at Mott‟s words. She tried to block him out but couldn‟t. How about a little snack, Zo-so? Entrenched in contemplation, Zoe allowed her subconscious to explore the outer sphere. I—I already did. Her hands twitched at Mott‟s puzzling comment. Your vampire lover won’t stand a chance in hell of bringing you back. The words reverberated in her head, as if 198

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something refused to let them go. She pushed past the baffling recollections, forcing her body to relax and her mind to sink lower. Images began to appear. She let them come into focus. First Mott—his appearance was very distinct. Then a woman— she had her back to Mott—a new girlfriend perhaps? Zoe blocked out everything that might interfere with the scene unfolding in her psyche. Gradually the woman’s body became easier to see. Tall—blonde—she turned to face Mott, it was Hannah! Zoe controlled her rising angst to let the vision play out. Mott and Hannah were speaking—and laughing—then Mott went to his desk drawer. Zoe drew a deep, calming breath. He turned back toward Hannah—they laughed again. Mott handed her something—a very small object—looked like a tiny glass tube. Hannah tucked it in her jeans pocket. Mott offered something else to Hannah. Small—no it was thin. For some reason Zoe had trouble drawing it into view. Summoning utmost self-control, she reentered the vision. Again, Mott handed Hannah a small glass tube—a vial! It was a vial! The missing link exploded into view. Mott held up the vial while showing Hannah how to draw liquid from inside— in his other hand the thin object became clear—a syringe! He had given Hannah a measure of toxin and demonstrated how to use it! Zoe surfaced from her meditation too quickly. A throbbing pain seized her head. With fingers rubbing her temples, she gulped for air and sprung from the bath. Her dripping clothes left a wet path as she raced barefooted, downstairs straight to Booker who sat with Rider and Paige in the kitchen. Upon her startling approach, they jumped up. Booker caught her in his arms. “Angel, what‟s wrong?” “Hannah…” Zoe gasped. “She has the toxin. Mott gave it to her and taught her how to use it. I knew something was different about him when we fought. His skills had been honed. I‟ve been racking my brain over how he knew about 199

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the swordfish and that you are a vampire.” “Dear God.” Paige visibly trembled. “Zoe, are you sure? How did you figure this out?” “I was meditating to clear my mind and the vision came to me. Everything fits. We have to find Hannah.” “I know where she is,” Erin‟s voice came from behind. Zoe turned to see Erin standing in the doorway, visibly upset. “Where?” “Right here.” Hannah stepped around the corner with a long needle attached to cylinder of liquid poised at Erin‟s back. “Erin, has she pricked your skin?” Zoe asked. Erin shook her head, but Hannah didn‟t give her time to reply. “No…Zo-so,” Hannah deliberately mocked. “Your greedy boyfriend gave me only enough of this disgusting stuff for one vampire—and believe me, it didn‟t come cheap. I really don‟t know what you ever saw in Mott.” Her words stung, but Zoe brushed it off. Nothing Hannah said could dissuade the rage surging though Zoe‟s body, blood felt like fire racing through her veins. “Neither do I,” Zoe said, then glanced at Erin. “Has she hurt any of the clan?” “No, Zoe. Everyone is okay,” Erin replied. “I‟m sorry…she dragged me out of my sleep.” “I‟m not stupid!” Hannah snapped. “I‟m not going to kill any member of my pack! It‟s you I want, Zoe. You think you‟re such a badass leader, but who trained you to fight? Me! I should be leader of Night Brigade and he should be mine!” Hannah cast a nod toward Booker. “Once I kill you and show everyone who the strongest female really is, then Booker will be my mate.” “Dream on,” Booker growled in obvious disgust. Hannah ignored his snub. “What do you say, Zoe? Are 200

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you willing to take me on to spare feisty little Erin? Do you truly care about anyone beside yourself?” “Let her go,” Zoe commanded. “I‟ll take you on. Ya think that little needle is going to protect you? It sure as hell didn‟t save Mott.” “I‟m not Mott.” Hannah released Erin with a shove. “I tried teaching him to fight—guess he was a slow learner. But you…you always did catch on quickly. However, you‟re not the only one with brains in this group. You thought I had left the night everyone drank the vodka. Yet I was smart enough to hang around and get the details and show Booker what he‟s missing.” The sight of Hannah wrapped around Booker, kissing him flashed through Zoe‟s mind. Her fury continued to rise. “Did it over occur to you, Hannah, that I held back to spare your pride just as Booker had? Maybe—just maybe I knew how to fight, but wanted to give you a sense of purpose when you came to us. Night Brigade has always been about rebuilding self-esteem. I guess what we gave you went to your head. If you‟re so fucking confident in your skills…” Zoe issued the challenge. “Then c‟mon, tough bitch, bring it on.” **** Hannah backed into the main room. Zoe stalked her. Booker followed close behind as did Rider and Paige. He‟d not interfere unless Zoe lost her edge. By the feel of the heat emanating from her though, Booker had no doubt his woman could take the wench. He had always believed Zoe was tougher. He hoped she‟d learned from her tangle with Mott to never hesitate and on no account show mercy to an attacker. Zoe and Hannah began circling each other. A crowd had 201

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gathered on the far side of the room, awakened by the commotion. Hannah made the first move, lashing at Zoe with the toxic needle. Zoe evaded her with ease. Placing the syringe between her teeth, Hannah employed her martial arts skills in attempt to knock Zoe off her feet. She jumped, spun and kicked repeatedly yet fell short of making contact with Zoe to land a single blow. Booker could tell Zoe had decided to handle this fight defensively in clever strategy to rattle Hannah and her plan appeared to be working. Hannah grew increasingly frustrated when Zoe dodged all her fancy steps. Zoe moved with astounding speed and dexterity, confirming Booker‟s instinct that she was better skilled. He glanced briefly at the onlookers and saw the expressions of wonder, most likely over their leader. When Hannah failed to subdue Zoe with her traditional technique, she resorted to striking out in any manner possible with the syringe in one hand. The two women had entered a gutter war and this was where Booker knew Zoe would excel. Her eyes blazed with untamed ferocity as she closed in on Hannah, tightening her circles as she stalked her prey. A fleeting look of confusion flitted over Hannah‟s face, clearly flustered that Zoe had averted all her strikes. Then without warning, Zoe used Hannah‟s favorite move against her. She never took her eyes from Hannah while leaping up, one foot shot out and kicked the hand holding the poison while her other foot followed in rapid succession to drive a hard blow into Hannah‟s face. The toxin filled cylinder was knocked free as Hannah staggered back. Zoe dropped and rolled, scooping up the syringe with one hand before springing back to her feet. Dazed by the powerful hits, Hannah had not regained control before Zoe pounced, knocking her to the floor. “Looking for this?” Zoe glowered, having pinned Hannah 202

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to the floor, then she winged the toxin out of reach to a vacant corner. “Don‟t look so tough now.” She clutched Hannah by the throat. “Booker belongs to me! And so does Night Brigade!” Hannah thrashed about, desperately trying to escape Zoe‟s stronghold. Still, Zoe retained the upper hand and it became clear to Booker that she was not about to surrender an inch of ground. He saw the waves of heat begin to radiate from her. The stench of burning skin rose in the air as Zoe‟s grasp burned into Hannah‟s skin. When Zoe comprehended the extent of her power, she flattened her other hand over Hannah‟s left chest. “I‟m gonna rip your traitorous heart out…” A look of horror swept over Hannah when she realized Zoe‟s staggering power. Booker watched in awe— immensely aroused by the scene. “Die bitch!” Zoe growled through clenched teeth as her touch literally disintegrated Hannah‟s shirt and skin, then bone until her still beating heart could be seen. Hannah wailed in pain. Booker heard Paige gasp and from his side view, saw her clasp a hand over her mouth. The other women observed in open fascination and Rider‟s gaze remained riveted on Zoe, who reached into Hannah‟s chest and tore out her heart with bare hands, then dropped it on the floor. Hannah instantly ceased moving. Zoe eased back onto the floor, a feral aura surrounded her. “She‟s all yours, girls.” Booker strolled over to the corner, carefully retrieved the syringe and took it to the powder room where he flushed it. Zoe was standing quietly back from the others when he reentered the room. He walked past the feeding frenzy and over to Zoe. “You knew I had that inside me, didn‟t you?” Zoe looked up at him with questioning eyes. 203

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“Yeah, babe.” “So I don‟t have to bite anyone.” “No.” “I have become a killer,” she said. “No,” he placed a gentle finger under her chin. “You have become a force to be reckoned with. Hannah—Mott, both would have killed you without a second thought or a bit of remorse. What you did was protect yourself and your pack.” Paige approached and wrapped Zoe in a warm embrace in spite of the bloody mess. “Zoe…I‟m so proud of you. Hannah was evil to do what she did. Don‟t you remember how we took her off the street and gave her a home? Her husband had left her with nothing. All she had when she came to us was her martial art skills, which yes, enabled our members to better defend themselves. But you, Zoe…you had insight and courage to lead us into the unknown and give us ultimate power.” “Thank you.” Zoe sighed and clung to Paige. “Now we can live in peace with the knowledge that if anyone seeks to harm our girls, we have what it takes to defend them,” Paige added. “You were so good to Hannah, giving her a sense of purpose, even when your skills exceeded hers…you never let on.” Booker appreciated Paige‟s female touch during this intense moment. He understood that Zoe felt a significant amount of turmoil after what had come to light. “What about Hannah‟s body?” Zoe asked. Paige laughed softly. “Not like anyone‟s going to come looking for her. We have been underground for so long most of our previous contacts don‟t even know we still exist. Let the girls take her out to the incinerator…looks like they‟re about done anyway. They should hurry before the sun comes up so nobody sees them.” “Paige!” Zoe pulled back in surprise. “I had no idea you 204

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could be so cold.” “Truth is, Zoe, I never liked Hannah,” Paige confessed. “Her arrogance made her ugly. She‟d always held herself in such high regard because of her expertise. Little did she know that everyone in this group has something equally valuable to offer.” Zoe nodded, appearing much more at ease. “I guess it‟s a good thing that Hannah did have the hots for Booker. We may have never known of her deep-seated animosity toward us had she not wanted him for herself.” “Glad I could help,” Booker said with a grin. **** The sweet scent of autumn leaves floated into the room on a night breeze. Zoe rolled over on the bed and opened her eyes after sleeping all day. Booker lay beside her, still peacefully asleep. She found his shirt and slipped into it. Then pushed a cushioned chair to the window and curled up on the upholstered seat, tucking her knees to her chest while gazing at a huge moon. After everyone had worked together to scour and clean the entire parlor, and taken turns bathing, they‟d retreated to their bedrolls for the afternoon. With their enemies at bay, Night Brigade could once again resume their usual activities within the seven chapters. She pondered Booker‟s idea of moving to the west coast and forming an official camp. Perhaps they could dissolve the chapters and bring all the women out together where they‟d be able to enjoy the comradely on a daily basis. Zoe worried over them now. How would female vampires merge back into a mortal world? Maybe the time had come to reconsider Night Brigade‟s purpose. Until now they had been an elite group 205

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of female bikers assisting downtrodden women. A great vision it had been and they‟d helped many, yet Zoe had foreseen the day when someone would force them into the open, thus removing their advantage of secrecy. She hadn‟t seen Booker coming though. His timing had been impeccable. Without him, she‟d of had to take Mott on alone. Knowing now what her ex-fiancé had been capable of, Zoe believed Mott would have gained control of her pack and exploited them. Well, Mott, you lost. You and Travis failed in your pathetic scheme. Zoe doubted Travis posed much of a threat. He had vanished long before Flaming Steel continued their pursuit of her. She did wonder why he left the pack. Considering everything that went down, most likely they‟d learned of his affiliation with Mott and had given him the boot. “What thoughts are running amok in that pretty head of yours?” Booker slid onto the chair behind her, pulling her against him. “Wondered where my shirt had wandered off to.” Zoe leaned back with a smile, then received his tender kiss. “Just thinking about the future and your idea to set up camp out west, it might be best to keep the women together now.” “What about your vigilante work?” “Perhaps it‟s time to lead Night Brigade in a new direction. Instead of hedging politics and paid-off law officials while waiting for women to come to us, we can patrol the roads by night as a more proactive force.” “The Night Brigade police?” Booker laughed. She laughed with him. “I wouldn‟t take it that far. But imagine how much more we can do as a united militia against evil. The night will belong to us and my girls can still help innocent victims, but on a more profound level.” “I like it.” 206

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“But do you think you‟ll enjoy riding with a group…especially all women? I know you don‟t care for the drama and you prefer riding alone.” “We don‟t have to ride with them all the time. They can continue grouping up to ride just as they‟ve always done. This way the pack will have a place to unite when the day is done.” He stroked her hair in his loving way, pulling it to one side as he so often did. “You and I will be free to come and go as we please and of course, have our own living quarters.” “Sounds wonderful.” Zoe sighed happily. “I think we should abandon this place anyway. I can leave it up to the individual chapters on who wants to sell and relocate with us. Your plan sounds perfect. Do you think Rider will want to liquidate some of that land you spoke of to purchase something on the west coast?” Booker leaned forward to bite lightly at her ear. “I‟m sure we can persuade him.” “You sound very confident.” She shivered at his delightful teasing. “I should be,” he murmured, a mysterious tone rode his soft, deep voice. “I own half of it.” Zoe turned on the chair to sit on her knees, straddling his lap. “I knew it. That explains the blood ties to the cocktail and why yours and Rider‟s blood keeps it strong.” A charming smile swept over his face. “Yeah…your comment that day on the way out the door when we were going to check on the women shocked the hell out of me. You have this uncanny way of putting things together purely by accident.” “Like how I stumbled on the fact that Mott and Travis were working together?” “Yeah.” His eyes sparkled playfully. “Ah, but you never told me that you and Rider are 207

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brothers, even when I hit on it that day. Why the secret?” “Because of our ancestry. We don‟t want to give anybody an edge by thinking they could threaten one of us by blackmailing the other. I guess you could call it an act of selfpreservation. Rider and I are all that‟s left of our family.” His explanation puzzled her. “Why would anyone come after you or Rider? You seem very well respected among your peers.” Booker‟s fingers floated delightfully up and down her arms. “We own hundreds of acres and much of it is coastal property.” “Yes, you told me about the huge estate and the house. I still don‟t see why owning a lot of property would make you a target. Many people own real estate.” “Angel…” He looked amused while framing her face with both hands. “We are fucking rich and now we‟re vampires. I think that would give someone plenty of motivation to make a move.” “You‟re rich?” “Very,” he replied. “So fucking rich, that our mother sent us to live with my uncle in PA to protect our identity.” “Ohh…that wealthy, huh…like winning the lottery rich?” She began to get the picture. Booker let out a short, light laugh. “Yeah, something like that.” “I‟d have never guessed that you or Rider had money,” she said, smiling. “You have what…two pair of jeans? And you‟re both so down to earth.” “Exactly.” “Wow.” Zoe relaxed on his lap, simply taking him in. This man has been a closet full of secrets. “Look what Mott and Travis put you through over money. I was determined to stop the prick this time,” Booker added. “I never expected to find my soul mate in the 208

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process.” “I‟m blown away,” she said. “All this time I‟ve been with you and not once did you act like money.” “That‟s because we own it—the money doesn‟t own us. Do you feel differently toward me now? Was it my vagrant rebel lifestyle that appealed to you…like the refined lady taking a walk on the wild side?” Zoe slid her hands into his hair and took a tight grip. “Are you ever going to change who you are?” “Never.” His eyes held fierce determination. “The money is there for us when we need it, but Rider and I took a blood oath the night we drank our grandfather‟s blood. We vowed that if either of us became seduced by wealth to kill each other. That‟s why we live as drifters and we are quite content as such.” “Then no, your financial status doesn‟t change how I feel about you. And to your second question, it was not your wild lifestyle that attracted me. I was drawn to you the first night we met when you looked at me with those striking blue eyes, even though you‟d just taken me from a life I thought I wanted.” She paused to place a lingering kiss on his sensual lips. “No matter how hard I tried, I couldn‟t stop myself from falling in love with you.” She let her hands float over his bare chest, then laid her head against him, breathing in his scent. Booker eased his shirt off her shoulders and began kissing her bare skin. Tingling prickles scattered over her body. Everything he did excited her in some manner. She reached for the fly on his jeans to release the erection straining against the denim. “Make love to me,” Zoe whispered. His eyes searched hers, bringing on the fluttery sensations below her stomach as he so often did. Smoothly they slid off the chair onto the floor. She had nothing on except his button down shirt which now draped from her body as he 209

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laid her down. Zoe let her gaze travel lazily over his wellbuilt body, taking pleasure in his magnificent form. Booker knelt between her legs while he removed his jeans. “I‟ve been aching to taste all of you.” Gazing down upon her with half-closed, shimmering eyes, he looked so unbelievably alluring she barely caught her breath. “Zoe,” Paige called from outside the bedroom door. “Are you awake?”

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Chapter Twelve

B

ooker rolled onto the floor with a groan. “What is it with this place?” “I‟m sorry,” Zoe said, pulling his shirt around her. “This is a safe-house so we can‟t expect much privacy.” “Hey…” He grabbed the shirttail before she got away. “We‟re leaving today…whether Paige is ready or not.” She stared at him for a moment and saw he was serious. “Okay. Then let‟s go tell the group about our plans so they can decide what they want to do.” “Only you are to know that Rider is my brother.” His expression left no room for discussion on the matter. “Not even Paige?” Zoe suddenly realized that she and Paige truly did share the same blood now. “She and I are true blood sisters now.” “Yeah…I guess you are.” Booker‟s light laugh carried a hint of irony. “Rider will tell Paige when he feels the time is right. It‟s not our place to share secrets with anyone but each other.” “I would never divulge anything you tell me in confidence. I‟ve not even told her why you went after Mott. Nobody keeps a secret better than I do, well…” Zoe reached up and touched his face. “Except maybe you.” He zipped his jeans, but left the top button undone. They opened the door to let Paige in. Her cheeks flushed when 211

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she glanced at Booker standing bared to the waist and barefooted, looking quite roguish. “Uh…the girls are getting ready to start riding out.” “Tell them to wait a minute. We wanna talk to everyone.” “Okay,” Paige muttered before hurrying away. Zoe turned to Booker while squeezing into her pants. “You still make her blush. Good thing Rider claimed her.” “Even if he hadn‟t, I‟d not want Paige. She‟s not my type.” He drew her close. “I‟ve never met a woman with your passion.” His teeth teasingly slid along her jaw line. “I see the way Rider looks at you and how Mott and Travis couldn‟t let go. You underestimate your charm, my love.” “And you‟re turning me on with that delicious nibbling…” Zoe sucked in a sharp breath. “Mm…” A low groan rose in his throat as he moved her hair to one side. “Let me ease your tension.” She let out a quick, soft gasp when he bit down. The throbbing between her thighs became maddening as he sucked her neck. He curled the fingers of one hand behind the opposite side of her throat, holding her steady—his mouth pulling at her flesh. His other hand slid over her backside, then gripped her thigh from the rear as he pressed into her. Zoe clung to him as he lavished her with hot desire. Within minutes her body erupted into the welcome spasms that relieved her immediate agony. She panted for breath in his embrace. “I want you…” Desperation flooded her voice. “What about your friends?” he asked, halfheartedly. Zoe began kissing her way down his sweat-beaded chest. “Won‟t hurt them to wait. I‟ve been longing to have you in every way.” She knelt on the floor, eager to taste him. His zipper gave way to her touch with ease, releasing an impressive erection. With a hard tug, his jeans fell to the floor. Booker stepped 212

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out of them. “Wait—” He lifted her. “If we‟re going in that direction, let‟s do it right. You‟re not the only one who‟s been craving the taste of sex.” She looked at him quizzically, then smiled when he effortlessly peeled the leather jeans off her body. “You make that look so easy.” “Maybe I wanna get into them more than you do,” he said with a teasing wink. “I‟ve been high on your precious blood for days…now I finally get to taste the sweet essence of your sex…” A slight whimper rode her quivering sigh at his provocatively spoken words. They slid to their knees, tangled in a heated embrace. Smooth on the dance floor—even more so in the bedroom— effortlessly he positioned her body over his so that she straddled his face with her upper body resting on his sexy abs. Everything she shared with him felt so incredibly natural. Zoe took him in, savoring each delicious moment of this intimate sharing between them. His hot mouth clamped over the aching flesh of her sex sent shockwaves through her. She lovingly sucked his velvety length, letting her tongue glide over the tip. She had longed to taste him this way since their first mating. He interrupted his delectable acts to murmur, “Angel, you taste every bit as sweet as I knew you would.” A delightful shiver raced over her skin. He excited her to no end and within minutes, the welcome spasms gripped her as his tongue and lips worked their magic. She had also brought him to the edge quickly. He groaned and shuddered seconds before a warm rush of liquid filled her mouth. Eagerly she swallowed. The heady experience enhanced her own orgasm, inducing a surge of warmth between her 213

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thighs. “Mm, sugar,” he groaned between ravenous lapping. “I could eat you all night.” She let his cock slip from her mouth for but a moment. “Ah, baby…take your time because I am sure as hell enjoying you.” They joined on a deeper level, raw and powerful— drinking each other‟s release with staggering passion— taking their time to enjoy heightened intimacy before hitting the road again.

The Pacific Ocean provided a stunning backdrop for the rising moon. Beams of silvery light danced along the waves, creating an enchanting shimmer as they tumbled ashore. Zoe sat perched on a large rock, watching the frothy, water splash up to kiss her bare feet. Booker had been gone all day, scouting their new location for the Night Brigade camp. Amidst the whoosh of the ocean came the welcome rumble of his Harley. Her head turned sharply. He parked his bike and headed toward her. Zoe leapt off the rock, then raced into his waiting arms, throwing hers around his neck and locking her legs around his waist. He sealed his mouth over hers—filling it with his tongue for a long, deep kiss. “I‟m so glad you‟re back,” she said in an airy rush. Zoe buried her face against his neck and he returned her embrace. “Everything okay?” His voice carried a hint of concern. “Yeah…” She sighed, inhaling his heady scent. “I missed my man.” “I didn‟t enjoy riding alone this time,” he said. “I‟ve grown attached to having you at my side.” She drew back to gaze into the entrancing eyes that had held her captive since the day they‟d met. “Did you like the 214

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property? Is this our new home?” “Yeah.” He offered a charming smile. “Does that please you, my love?” “Yes! I love it here.” She pointed to the half moon. “Look at how it makes love to the water, such an awesome sight.” His eyes shone with open adoration, staring into her soul like only he could do. “Your spirit is invigorating. I see the stars sparkle in your eyes.” He brushed his lips over hers, then smiled. “You belong to the night.” She returned his smile. “I belong to you.” “Angel eyes…” He sighed contentedly while gazing at her. “You‟ve brought me from my darkness to your light.”

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About the Author Have you ever driven by a house in the country that appears inhabited yet you never catch anyone going in or out? Tall trees and decorative shrubs bordering a winding sidewalk partially conceal the front door. Ever wonder who lives in those mysterious homes and what they may be like? Perhaps try driving by at night… As a child I was shy and spent most of my time alone. I learned early on how to entertain myself as my parents worked and my siblings were much older. Born and raised in the country, I grew up fast. When you're seven years old and there's nobody around to cook you a meal, you learn quickly. I became quite competent in many areas of everyday living. I never successfully integrated into the mainstream of society--not a social butterfly. However, I did meet my soulmate in 1986. He embraced my unconventional ways and followed me into those deep tunnels of mystery where I feel at home. I've been writing my way into better worlds since grade school and carried that gift into adulthood. A lifelong fascination with vampires—I enjoy penning wild tales of the unknown and creating stories of romance and vampires…with heat! I invite you into my world of vampires where we sleep all day and rock all night. While you're here…enjoy the ride!