Silk and Shadows

A Total-E-Bound Publication

www.total-e-bound.com

Silk and Shadows ISBN # 978-1-907010-61-3 ©Copyright Taige Crenshaw 2009 Cover Art by Lyn Taylor ©Copyright July 2009 Edited by Jess Bimberg Total-E-Bound Publishing This is a work of fiction. All characters, places and events are from the author’s imagination and should not be confused with fact. Any resemblance to persons, living or dead, events or places is purely coincidental. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any material form, whether by printing, photocopying, scanning or otherwise without the written permission of the publisher, Total-E-Bound Publishing. Applications should be addressed in the first instance, in writing, to Total-E-Bound Publishing. Unauthorised or restricted acts in relation to this publication may result in civil proceedings and/or criminal prosecution. The author and illustrator have asserted their respective rights under the Copyright Designs and Patents Acts 1988 (as amended) to be identified as the author of this book and illustrator of the artwork. Published in 2009 by Total-E-Bound Publishing 1 The Corner, Faldingworth Road, Spridlington, Market Rasen, Lincolnshire, LN8 2DE, UK.

Warning: This book contains sexually explicit content which is only suitable for mature readers. This story has been rated Total-e-burning.

Club Immortality

SILK AND SHADOWS Taige Crenshaw

Dedication To my mother, who has always been my number one fan. Although you are no longer with me, I know you are smiling down at me getting published. To Marilyn, my sister and second mother, who has always believed in me. To my lunch buddies, who listen to me ramble on about my writing ideas.

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Welcome to Club Immortality, where all your desires will be fulfilled. Nothing is taboo, and privacy is a guarantee. We have been in existence for many centuries, hidden from those who are sensually unaware. Now, with the permission of some of our patrons, we are about to bring you into the most exclusive club. With our tales, we hope you will become enlightened. In our current tale, we find a retired Htrae Elf who is a loner, and a woman who craves something more. What they both find is that what we long for isn’t always as we expected. When desire and fate meet, it creates a combustion that will take you on a journey--a journey that will leave you forever changed. I'm Syn, and this is my mate, Micah. Sit back, be tantalised, titillated, and most of all, let go of your inhibitions. Syn & Micah

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Chapter One

Veronica Gunn looked back at the address on the paper, and then at the building. Although she had been in this area many times before, she had never seen this place. Club Immortality glowed from the discreet sign above the door. She couldn’t imagine her friend Syn Ash in such a place, much less dating the owner. Curiosity had made her come to meet Syn and her new boyfriend, when she would have rather stayed home, curled up with her Sony e-reader. “Curiosity will be your downfall, Ronnie,” Veronica said aloud, as was her habit. Then she chuckled. “You spend way too much time alone. You’ve got to stop talking to yourself.” Veronica shrugged, figuring that as long as she didn’t actually answer herself, she was fine. She debated if she should just go back home and call Syn with an excuse. She had planned on a relaxing night away from the complex computer program she was working on. She didn’t particularly feel like being social. Pursing her full lips, she again felt the curiosity that had made her come in the first place. Cursing her need to know, she walked forward to the door. Absently, she wondered why there was no line to get inside or a bouncer at the door. Veronica glanced up and stopped, her attention caught by carved golden symbols on the door. From her knowledge of ancient languages, she assumed it was some sort of saying, although she couldn’t place the language or what it said. The ornate, fancy etchings were beautiful. Raising her hand, she touched them, tracing the shapes. A warm tingle spread along her fingers and down her hand. With a gasp, she pulled her hand back and glanced at it. Flecks of gold light circled her hand, then lowered onto it, making it tingle again. The light seemed to disappear right into her skin. Veronica twisted her hand back and forth, confused at what she had seen. Narrowing her eyes, she reached and traced the symbols again. Nothing happened. “You’re losing it, Ronnie. Gold lights and ancient symbols. God, you need to get out more.” Laughing at herself, she shook her head.

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With one more thought of her e-reader, filled with hot erotic romances, and her waiting vibrator, Veronica gripped the handle of the door and pulled. As the door swung open, she heard the pulsing music that had been muffled. Grimacing, she wondered if she had any Tylenol in her bag for the headache she knew she would get from the loud music. Keeping her gaze down, she stepped through the entrance, then quickly stepped to the side to avoid the people heading out the door. One stopped and looked at her. She glanced up and up. The bright blue gaze made her shift uncomfortably and wish she was anywhere but here. She hated attention. “You’re not an employee,” a rich baritone said. Surprised that she could hear him so clearly, and that he was actually talking to her, Veronica checked him out. He was attractive. The man smiled, making him even more handsome. Stupefied at his look and attention, she fumbled with what to say, then cursed herself for being such a social idiot. “No, umm… I’m loo…” she cleared her throat, “I’m looking for Syn Ash.” “Oh. She’s probably by the stage with Micah, making sure everything is going well for the first employee party they’ve done together.” The man waved a graceful hand towards the front of the room. “Are you going to be working here?” “Umm…no. I’m a friend of Syn’s.” Veronica stifled a laugh at the absurdity of her working here. She was a straight up nerd, and there was no way could she work here with all these people. Just the thought made her want to run out the door. Computer chats was the most social she got. That was the one thing she and Syn had in common—their being antisocial and not wanting to go anywhere. It didn’t stop their other friends from trying to make them go out. At least in Veronica’s case, they were able to talk her into it sometimes. Syn, on the other hand, never went out. She hadn’t left the house in years, at least until a few months ago. Now, she not only went out, but had a new man. It had shocked them all. Well, except for Jian Weiss, who had got Syn to actually leave the house after such a long time. They were all curious about what had happened, but Syn and Jian were very mysterious and closemouthed about it. That’s why the invitation to come meet Syn and her new beau at the club he owned was such a shock. Syn knew Veronica well enough to figure that, with her curiosity, she couldn’t

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resist coming, even though she hated clubs. At least what the man said about this being an employee party had cleared up Veronica’s confusion on why there was no line or bouncer outside. “… ask for Galen next time you come and I’ll buy you a drink.” Veronica realised the man had been talking while she was woolgathering. Hearing what he said, she returned her attention to him. Galen smiled sexily at her and took a step closer. Veronica instinctively stepped back. He stopped, his expression going serious as he tilted his head to the side. His scrutiny was intense. She wanted to run and hide, but refused to do so. Narrowing her eyes, she returned his look. Galen smiled softly. “You don’t even know how luscious you are,” he purred. Resisting the impulse to roll her eyes, Veronica retorted, “You don’t even know how full of shit you are.” Galen looked startled, then threw his head back and laughed. Veronica stifled a shudder. His laugh was as sensual as his voice and face. Galen looked back at her, his bright blue eyes seeming to glow. Veronica blinked, sure she was seeing things. When she looked again, his eyes were normal. Too much time on computers. You’re losing touch with reality. “I like your sharp wit, Veronica Gunn. Next time you come by, come see me at the bar. I’ll buy you a drink.” Galen winked and went over to the door. He glanced back and waved. Veronica waved back, and he went out the door. After the door closed behind him, she realised he had known her name, even though she hadn’t given it to him. She thought about it, then chuckled. “Syn probably told him.” Veronica looked at the gyrating bodies on the dance floor and again fought her instinct to bolt out the door. She wasn’t used to so many people. Rolling her shoulders a few times to release some of her tension, she looked around. The low lighting cast the dancers in an eerie glow, making them seem ethereal. There were lots of tables, each with a candle and a slim vase of flowers, scattered around the perimeter of the packed dance floor. Veronica shook her head again, trying to clear it of the notion she was seeing a vase floating just above the table. She continued her study of the club’s interior. The colour scheme was gold, brown, and green. It was a combination that created a sexy, edgy, sleek, yet welcoming feel—something

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she would never had expected from a club. Sighing, Veronica knew she was stalling, putting off actually going into the club any farther. She didn’t care about the décor. All she wanted was to meet Syn’s new man and, after a polite time, make a run for the door. Ten minutes is long enough. Find Syn and this Micah fellow, chat nicely then get the hell out of here. With that plan in mind, she looked left, then right, and decided which way had the least amount of people. Lacing her fingers together, Veronica turned them under and stretched them out in front of her. Feeling them crack, she shook her hands out. Another roll of her shoulders, then neck, and she took a breath, then went to the right. Not meeting anyone’s eyes, she looked around the area for Syn. At the front of the massive space packed with people, she stopped. The stage was right in front of her. A quick glance confirmed what she had already realised. Syn wasn’t anywhere near the stage. The lighting was brighter in this area, and since the dancers and those seated at tables were not flush against the raised platform, she had a clear view of the stage that ran the entire back length of the club. Veronica gripped her bag, undecided if she should walk in front of the stage across to the other side of the club and continue looking for Syn, or just go home. Still thinking, she turned and squinted, noticing the door that was tucked discreetly next to the platform. Nervously, she glanced around. No one was paying any attention to her. Shrugging, she walked to the door, opened it quickly, and stepped inside, closing it behind her. The noise of the club cut off as the door shut. “Thank God for soundproofing,” Veronica sighed. Looking at wide hallway she was in, Veronica started walking. Absently, she noted that even with maybe eight people walking side by side, they wouldn’t touch either side of the walls. Passing the various doors on either side of the hall, she read each plaque—‘Storage Room’, ‘Employee Lockers’, ‘Employee Lounge’, ‘Performers’, ‘Bands’, and a few with no signs on them. Veronica stopped at the door almost in the middle of the long hall. “Manger’s Domain, enter at your own risk. We accept bribes of anything sweet, although caramel is the favourite.” Veronica chuckled. “At least Micah has a sense of humour.” She knocked on the door and waited. Nothing happened. Cautiously, she opened the door, calling out, “Syn, are you here?”

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Stepping inside, she took in the opulent office. It was massive, with an equally huge desk made from bloodwood with a window behind it. Veronica took a step forward and realised she could see the whole of the club through the glass. No one seemed to be looking back at her. Someone stopped in front of the glass and put on lipstick. She chuckled, realising it was one-way glass with a mirror on the other side. Turning her attention back to the rest of the office, she glanced around at the various furnishings made from bloodwood with hunter green and rich gold, with accents of orange. The wall adjacent to the desk and one-way glass was filled with TV screens, each seeming to show various parts of the club. The whole wall surrounding the door she had come in was actually a painting. It was a rich and vivid depiction of a fanciful warrior in full battle gear. His face was obscured by a headpiece. She noted the open door on the last wall to her left looked like it led to a bedroom. “Syn?” Cautiously, she went over and looked in. The room had the same colour scheme as the rest of the office, and bloodwood furniture. It was empty. She turned and stepped back closer to the door leading out of the room. One more glance around at the beautiful yet empty office, and Veronica sighed. “I should have known it would be too easy to expect Syn to be in the office.” Turning, she heard a sound. It sounds like silk on skin. That’s impossible, Ronnie. You shouldn’t even know what silk on skin sounds like. The sound came again, making her look back. Her eyes widened as she viewed the man who stepped out of the shadows. Long chestnut hair, streaked with everything from dark mahogany to strawberry blond, framed a face that was devastatingly decadent. The man’s broad forehead led to a perfectly-shaped nose. High sculptured cheeks filtered down into a sexy masculine chin with a rakish dent. His full upper lip, above a much plumper lower one, was unsmiling. She continued down, viewing the dark green silk shirt covering his chest, leading into a tapered waist, then long legs and muscular thighs covered by matching skintight pants tucked into knee-high chocolate brown boots. Afraid she had imagined him, Veronica raised her eyes to meet his. Icy green eyes locked with hers. Their intensity rocked her, making her pussy clench with visceral need. Her already racing heart sped up. Clenching her sweaty palms into fists, she resisted stepping forward to touch him. The skin on her body felt as if it was on fire. Her

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mouth watered with the need to taste him, to lick him from head to foot. She wanted to take his chestnut hair and sink her fingers into it as he took her fast, hard, and deep. Shifting from foot to foot, she tried to make sense of her reaction to him. The man continued to study her. Say something, Ronnie. Speak and see if he answers, or if you’re having a mental breakdown. She opened her mouth. The man put up his right hand, stilling her words. A sensuous grin curved his lips as he extended his hand to her, palm up. The hunger in his gaze made her lose her breath.

Patiently, Zayne waited with his hand held out for her to come to him. In all his years, Zayne had never seen such a delectable woman. Thick, curly lashes framed eyes the colour of dark storm clouds on a rainy day. Hungrily, he took in her aquiline nose, high, sharp cheeks, biteable lips, and rounded chin. He had watched her through the doorway as she chuckled earlier, so he knew dimples surrounded that sexy smile. Continuing his perusal down a curvy body that would fit and feel good against his six-foot-three frame, Zayne wanted to rip off her conservative clothing to get to the skin beneath. Her pale grey button-down shirt had two buttons open, showing off a lickable neck. Although slightly loose, the shirt hugged her full breasts. It covered her to the hips over a long, dark blue skirt. He didn’t need to see to know she had lush hips and a sweetly rounded ass. The end of the shirt rested where he wanted to be buried. His already hard cock filled even more. This sexy honey-skinned vixen already had him in her thrall. She was a temptation he hadn’t even expected. From her first step into the doors of Club Immortality, he had felt her. The sense of consciousness of the one who would be his came over him. It staggered him. He had given up on ever finding his other half and accepted that he would be alone forever. He never expected to know what it felt like to be with the one. When he had retired as a warrior from the Htrae Elves, his leader had tried to talk him out of it, saying he would be bored. He hadn’t been. Club Immortality had given him a home and a new place to belong. When his boss Micah, an Oracle, had mated with Syn, a Ryian, he knew the true purpose of the club had come. Before their mating, Club Immortality was a safe haven for other beings to be themselves. When Syn and Micah mated, the club gained the ability to match beings together. Some were matched for sexual fulfilment only, while others had

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found their mates. Since word had spread throughout the super community of the Ryian and Oracle mating bringing Club Immortality to life, beings had flooded the already busy club. Zayne’s job as manager of the club was to make sure everything ran smoothly. He had to hire more people and give up some of his duties. Thankfully, Syn and Micah had convinced Jian, another friend of Syn’s, to take over security and some other areas. Zayne never had imagined that the Club’s special matching would work for him. Yet, now it seemed as if the club had also given him someone so he wouldn’t be alone. The connection of being near his one had clicked in and he had seen and felt everything though her eyes. It had taken everything in him not to go and beat Galen to a pulp as he flirted with her. She was his. Only his. When she hadn’t shown any interest in Galen, it had pleased him. Her panic at the people around had baffled him, though. He made a note to ask her why she was fearful. Although he could have gleaned the information from her thoughts, he wanted her to share it with him voluntarily, so he hadn’t gone too deeply into her mind. Subtly, he had called her to him, but her will surprised him and she resisted. Instead, she overcame her fear and went around the club, searching for Syn and Micah. Zayne knew she wouldn’t find them--at least not tonight. This night was theirs, as the club had decided. It was unexpected that a human woman would be his, a woman who was such good friends with Syn. Syn had talked a lot about her friends in the months he had known her. He had listened and knew they were all close. The name of Veronica Gunn hadn’t set off any feelings, yet here she was—Veronica, the woman who was his soul. He watched her battle with her desire to come to him and her practical side, which screamed at her to run away. Zayne didn’t move, leaving the decision up to her. He stifled a chuckle at her thoughts, which were so loud he couldn’t help but hear them. Ronnie, go to him. Fuck him. Suck him blind. For once in your life, go for it. No. He’s a stranger. A hot man, but a stranger nonetheless. Get out now. Come on. He’s probably an employee of Micah’s. I’m sure Syn knows him, and no way would she let Micah keep him on staff if there was anything wrong with him. Uh- huh. That’s your libido talking. Hell, yeah it is. Just look at him. Don’t you want to lick him? Yeahhh… So come on. Work out the good and bad, just like a program.

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Her thoughts started to go so fast with codes and weird numbers that Zayne couldn’t understand. Veronica’s intellect drew him as much as her sexiness. Syn had talked about how smart each of her friends were. They were all geniuses in different fields. Veronica was into computers. From the way her mind was working, he could see what Syn had said was true. Raising a delicate looking hand, Veronica pushed her fingers through her hair, dislodging the braid. Thick, dark brown curly hair with a slight reddish tint fell, framing her face. Zayne locked his knees, fighting the urge to cross the room, grab her hair, which fell just below her waist, and kiss her. The walls started to undulate, and the sound of silk filled the room. Veronica looked around, startled. Seeing through her eyes, he saw himself standing tall, proud, and waiting as ice green silk, flowing from the ceiling behind him, fluttered as if blown by wind. He couldn’t control the power to bring the silk for her. As he looked at her, all he could envision was silk, and he wanted to see her on it. She looked back at him, her storm cloud eyes shocked, then going darker with desire. Veronica took a breath, then took a step towards him. She took another and another until her hand brushed his. Her touch is silk. Closing his hand over hers, Zayne pulled her into his body. He hissed as they touched, and a shudder racked her. The feel of her against him overwhelmed his senses. Lifting his other hand, palm out, he waited. Hesitantly, she raised her other hand and touched her palm to his. Raising both hands, she laced their fingers together. Watching their hands together, hers honey and his sun-kissed, Zayne bit back the need to roar his possessiveness. Not wanting to scare her off, he looked into her uncertain eyes. “My name is Zayne. Club Immortality and I have granted you your deepest fantasy.” Veronica jerked, eyes widening. He held her firmly. “Shh… it’s okay. Nothing you don’t want will happen to you. Let go.” Veronica’s eyes narrowed, and her brow furrowed. YOU CAN READ MY MIND! Zayne winced. “Yes, I can read your mind, but you don’t need to shout. Think as you normally do.” Veronica grinned sheepishly. “Sorry.” Her grin turned devilish. “So you can read my mind. You psychic or something?” “No, I’m a Htrae Elfen.” Zayne watched her closely for her reaction. She blinked, then laughed. “Like in Santa Claus?”

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Zayne sighed. “No, not Santa Claus, although the Seleds Elves help him out. There are many species of elves.” Veronica stilled, and stared. “You’re serious,” she said. He continued communicating directly from his mind to hers. “Yes, I’m serious. Why do you think all this is happening?” “Yeah, right. And I’m the Easter Bunny.” “Really? My how you’ve changed, Kiernan. I’ve never been quite so attracted to you.” Veronica laughed. “I know sarcasm when I hear it.” She studied him closely. “Have you taken your pills today?” Confused, he wondered what she meant. “Huh?” “Pills that keep you from having delusions.” She elaborated. He sighed again. “I’m quite sane. Okay, Ms. Smarty Pants. How do you explain us floating, then?” Veronica guffawed. ”Good drugs.” She laughed, then looked down and nearly choked. Lazily, Zayne continued to float them in slow circles. “Oh my God! I’m having a break with reality. Come on, Ronnie, snap out of it!” She quivered and held his hands tighter. He could feel her fear. Leaning into her, Zayne spoke close to her ear. “There is nothing to be afraid of. I have you. Do you want this, Veronica Gunn?” He put all his need to have her into his voice—all the lonely nights of wanting someone to hold, fuck, and love. Veronica glanced up from the ground they were floating above. Her dark grey gaze was panicked, then lustful.

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Chapter Two

Veronica knew there must be some reasonable explanation for them floating above the ground, but she couldn’t seem to care. The first sound of his voice curled around her in a warm embrace. Somehow, his voice came across deeper than him speaking in her thoughts. It resonated through her, making her nipples pebble and her pussy spasm. “Do you want this, Veronica Gunn?” His voice brushed her mind. She knew then that she’d been wrong. His voice sounded more sensual and intimate in her mind, like a caress across her bare skin. She bit her lip to stifle a whimper. Lost in his gaze, she felt every inch of him against her—his fingers laced with hers, and the sound of silk billowing in the background. She knew what she wanted, and no matter how improbable it sounded that he was an elf, she didn’t care. Need overrode everything else, and Veronica wanted, just for this night, to let go as he’d said. “Yes.” The sound of silk rippling became louder and more frantic. Zayne said nothing, but the pleasure gleaming in his eyes said it all. Suddenly, she felt the air rush past her, and the feel of silk brushed her skin. Shifting, she purred at the softness against her back. Zayne pressed her hands back against the wall. Silk slid along her wrists. Glancing up, she saw two pieces detach from the billowing silken wall. Softly, they wrapped around her wrists and flowed down her arms. Tugging, she realised they held her gently, but firmly. Strangely, she didn’t feel afraid, just extremely sexy. A warm body pressed against hers. Veronica glanced into heated icy green eyes. Zayne leaned closer to her and covered her lips with his. Veronica stilled, expecting hunger and need. Instead, he made her weak with a tender, sensual kiss that sent her senses into overdrive. His tongue swept along her lips, looking for entrance. With a wanton moan, she closed her eyes and opened her lips. The stroke of his tongue into her mouth was commanding. The sweet, decadent taste of him rolled over her. His scent filled her, musky and all man. His hands ran up her arms covered by silk as he caged her between the wall and his hard body. He rubbed against her, the hard ridge of his shaft abrading her skirt. Trying to

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open her legs wider, she groaned, frustrated, as her skirt stopped her. Her pussy flooded with wetness. With a moan, she pulled with her hands, trying to hold him. The silk held her steady. Suckling his tongue, she growled and nipped him. His groan of approval vibrated through her. He laved his tongue along hers, setting off a pulse of sensation that went all over her body, from head to foot. Moaning harshly, she shifted against him, wanting more. She needed skin against skin. With a murmur, he pulled back. Confused at why he was stopping, she opened her eyes. The hunger in his gaze made her breath catch. “Do you want this, Veronica?” His voice was hoarse and deep with desire. Her pussy clenched, needing him to fill her. She opened her mouth to respond. “Shh…” he said, his voice dropping to a bassy growl. “Be very sure you want this. Once we do this, there is no going back. If you need time to accept we are now an ‘us’ instead of ‘you and me’, I will give it to you. But I can’t wait to have you now. I want to fuck you so hard that you will feel me for days every time you move.” His words seemed as if he was warning her, but they only made her ache. Veronica didn’t want to walk away. She just needed him. Now. “Fuck me, Zayne.” A shudder racked his body. Zayne reached out with his right hand and touched her clothes. She looked down as they tingled. Her clothing disappeared. Veronica blinked, gasping as the air touched her fevered skin, and looked back at him. He was naked. She hadn’t seen him get naked. Sculpted muscles went across his broad chest. Zayne growled low in his throat, pressing against her. Her thoughts scattered at the touch of skin against skin. His fingers burrowed into her hair, holding her still. With impatient movements, he floated back a little. She glanced down at his erection. The thick, long length was pulsing with need. He ripped open the condom she hadn’t even seen him get and put it on his leaking shaft. He stepped forward; his hands gripped her hips and lifted her. Veronica threw her head back as she felt his thickness pressing against her wet cunt. He grunted, and then she felt the head of his cock entering her. He grabbed her hips firmly and pulled her down hard on his shaft. A scream burst from her. The fullness of him in her was so right. She clamped her legs around him. With a harsh sound, he pumped. His cock slid along her pussy walls. The power of his thrusting made her hair, caught beneath her, pull.

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The silk along her back stroked her skin, while the ties on her wrist held her, petting. She was oblivious to it all, except for his thrusts as he took her. Veronica clamped her hands around the silk, using it as leverage to match him thrust for thrust. In and out he moved, each pump of his cock going deeper and deeper inside her. Whimpering she rotated her hips, wanting more of his hardness to fill her. When she didn’t think he could go any deeper, he did, dragging a loud cry from her. “Zayne!” Rotating her hips again, Veronica pushed down to counter his upward momentum. His length filled her more and more. His hard body pressed her against the silken wall. Zayne’s breath and words feathered against the side of her neck. “Mine… mine… mine…mine…mine.” Grunting, Veronica held tighter to the bindings. Hands covered hers, and then tangled with her fingers. The sensation of being under his control heightened her desire. His thrusts increased, his cock creating a delicious friction, going in and out of her hungry pussy. The sensuous glide of his tongue caressed her skin, and then a slight pain overcame her as he bit. Zayne grunted and did it again. Lick then bite, over and over again. Rough puffs escaped him as he undulated his hips, making his cock glide in and out of her wetness, bringing tears of pleasure to her eyes. His murmurings in a language she didn’t recognise vibrated against her chin. “Harder!” Veronica demanded. Zayne growled, a loud rumbling in his chest. He nipped her lower lip and, with a guttural sound in the back of his throat, licked along both of them. Veronica followed his tongue around with hers. Zayne shuddered.

Forcefully, he thrust with urgency.

Whimpering, Veronica locked her legs around his hips tighter. Zayne suckled her tongue, then nipped it. The taste of him made her pussy flood even more. The scent of their lovemaking made her weak. Zayne thrust hard, and then rotated his hips in a movement that made her breath catch. A delicious tightness filled the base of her stomach, and her pussy flooded with liquid heat as she went over into decadent pleasure. “Zayne!” Veronica screamed, caught in the harsh clutches of her release. “Let go, Veronica.”

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Still screaming, Veronica pressed down. Her pussy contracted around his hard shaft. A dizzy feeling and whirring sound filled her. Her legs started to slip from around him. “Don’t release me.” She held onto him tighter. A sensual smile curved his lips. His hips continued to pump lazily, and she was surprised to find he was still hard. His shaft abraded her aching pussy, setting off another orgasm. Veronica moaned in time with his movements. Zayne stilled. “Let go,” he whispered against her lips. Unquestioningly, she did as he asked. Her legs slid down from around him. Before her feet touched the floor, Zayne turned her around and gently pushed her down onto her knees. The softness of a bed touched her knees. For a moment she wondered how they had gotten to a bed but then he bit down on her shoulder. “Yes!” Veronica moaned and rocked back. Zayne stroked his hand along her spine. She purred at his touch. His hand slid into her hair as his body covered hers. “Purr for me, Veronica.” His seductive voice whispered against her ear. Veronica’s heart raced. Although she had just come and should have been sated, she wasn’t. She wanted more of his masterful seduction. In her fevered imagination, she could feel him already in her pussy riding her hard and fast from behind. His taking awakened a primitive need to have all of him and more. Veronica turned her head, purring as she felt the pull of her hair wrapped around his fist. She met his hooded eyes. She smiled seductively, rocked back, and rolled her ass against his still hard cock. Zayne’s hand stroked along her back and butt, and then he bumped his erection along her open slit, rubbing softly. “Growl for me, Zayne.” The breathless hitch and need in her voice surprised her. He leaned his front against her back, meeting her lips and licking them. A devilish grin curved his lips. “Anytime and anywhere. Purr for me. Let me hear it all.” With those words, Zayne thrust into her pussy, hard and sure. Veronica purred as she pushed back against him. His cock sank deeper. Zayne’s hand stroked down the side of her cheek, and then a soft sucking kiss brushed the side of her throat. The scent of potent male blanketed her body. A firm thrust made her gasp. The smack of his hand on her ass made her catch her breath, then moan at the slight of sting pain. She

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looked back at him, and the sight of his hand raised to spank her made her shudder. Zayne brought it down again on her ass. Her skin burned where he smacked her. Wetness flooded her pussy, making his in and out motion slicker. A moan ripped from her, and then she turned her head forward, bracing her hands more firmly against the silk sheets. Zayne continued to paddle her as he fucked her. Each blow made her cunt gush and undulate around his cock. Veronica whimpered. He changed the tempo, smacking and then stroking along her a. The dual sensations made her sigh. It was heavenly, and she wanted more. The thought of being tied down and spanked turning her on so much had never entered her mind before. Bending lower, Veronica pushed back. “Zayne… yes…. please…more… need.” She ground her hips against his shaft. Zayne’s hits became more forceful, causing her to go forward, then come back onto him. Veronica grunted. Wetness flowed down her legs. The more he paddled her, the more inflamed it made her. The more she wanted it. Guttural sounds came from her throat, and she pushed back against his cock. She gasped, shocked, as another orgasm swept over. Bucking, she threw her head back and screamed. Her pussy clenched once, twice, and then a final time. Veronica swayed, and her arms felt weak. “Hold on, Veronica.” At the harsh desire in Zayne’s voice, Veronica put her hands more firmly on the bed. His thick length still filled her. Zayne pumped into her forcefully. Hard hands gripped her in place while he thrust urgently. Rolling her hips, she pushed back on him. “Zayne, please more.”

At the hunger and demand in Veronica’s tone, Zayne growled. He couldn’t believe that this human woman was meeting his frenzied mating and asking for more. He gripped her hips more firmly and pumped forward. Her pussy clenched around his cock in a sensual vice he didn’t want to ever leave. Veronica’s back arched, and she pushed back against him. Her honey skin was coated in sweat. Licking along her spine, he tasted her sweetness and wanted more. Loosening his grip on her hip, he pulled her back by her hair. Veronica purred, a sweet, lush, wanton sound.

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Pumping forward, he watched her ass move as he sank into her wet flesh. He ran his hand down her spine and along each firm globe that was a little red from his spanking. He smacked her bottom again. She gasped and bucked. His woman liked it, and her wild movements let him know. She whimpered and pushed back against him. Leaning into her, he whispered, “I want to taste your sweet pussy. “ Veronica purred, and then grunted as he thrust harder. Gripping her hair, he pulled her head back to him. He leaned into her and whispered against the side of her face. “You like that. Where shall I do it? On the desk in my office, the chair, or maybe somewhere everyone can see us. Hmmm… No, I’d be too jealous of anyone seeing you. It will be somewhere private so you can scream and purr for me,” he warned. “Yes…please… Zayne.” Veronica shivered. He held her, continuing with his demanding strokes. The sound of flesh hitting flesh filled him with a fierce pride, while the sensation of her silken heat enveloping his erection made him shake. Veronica slammed herself against his cock. The painful tightening of his sac warned him he was near. The power filled him, and the lights in the room glowed brighter, then burst into flames. They cast an eerie glow along her skin. Releasing her hair, Zayne moulded himself to her back. He wanted to feel every movement of her release. Her moan matched his groan as her back met his front. Still thrusting into her, he put his hands on the bed next to hers. He put his face next to hers. Veronica turned her head sideways to him, and he captured her lips in a kiss. She sucked his tongue ravenously. The purring sounds she made in the back of her throat vibrated against his tongue. He stroked urgently inside her. Veronica contracted around him, and then a gush of her wetness coated his shaft as she came. “Zayne!” She moaned against his lips. She pushed back against him and rolled her hips again. The combination of her undulating pussy and her wanton sound of pleasure sent him over the edge. “Veronica!” He thrust into her greedy slit as his release flooded over him. His cock pulsed out his seed. Soon, you will bear me children A family for us both.

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Shaking, he continued to pump inside of her. Wrapping his arms around her, his hands on her stomach, Zayne lay on the bed on his side, keeping himself buried inside of her. Veronica murmured, lacing her fingers with his over her belly. She sighed, relaxing against him. He nuzzled into her hair and kissed the side of her face. Veronica cuddled deeper against him, making a sleepy noise. He felt the exact instant she went to sleep. Zayne studied her lovely features. In sleep, she was more open and relaxed. Reluctantly, he pulled back from her, took off the condom, and discarded it in the trash by the bed. Rolling back to her, he noted she had turned, her hand outstretched as if searching for him. Bending over her, he stroked his finger along her cheek. Veronica opened her eyes, then turned her head and nipped his finger. “Stop watching me and go to sleep.” Her voice filled his mind. She laughed, then snuggled into his chest, going back to sleep. Holding her close, Zayne followed her into sleep.

A sound woke him. Groggy, Zayne opened his eyes. Not moving, he saw Veronica dressed in her clothes he had zapped to the chair, standing at the door with her back to him. She had pulled her hair back into a braid. She glanced back. He closed his eyes almost all the way and pretended to sleep as he watched her. Although the shadows danced around her, he could see the indecision on her face clearly. Her thoughts raced through his mind, fast and random. He wanted to calm her fears and tell her everything would be okay. He didn’t. It would be her choice. He had promised to give her space and time. Foolishly, he hadn’t expected her to take it. Veronica opened the door and left quickly. Zayne sat up against the headboard. The sheets flowed off him. The now closed door seemed to mock him. The need to call her to come back was on his tongue, but he knew he couldn’t. He gasped at the pain that filled him at her leaving. I didn’t think it would hurt this much to let her choose. “Why does it hurt so much? I can’t survive the pain if she doesn’t return to me!” The raw pain in his soul echoed in his voice, shaking him to the core. The sound of silk filled the room, sliding along the walls. It came to him and wrapped around him, lowering him to the bed. Burrowing into the embrace, he let it comfort him although he knew nothing truly would until Veronica came back. If she came back, he

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amended. No matter what she decided—yes or no—through their connection he would know when she did. Not what she chose, but that she had decided. If she didn’t come back to him, then he would let the silk take him away. The room went dark as the shadows crept over and the silk tightened around him, shielding him from the wait.

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Chapter Three

Zayne finished mixing the White Russian, put the glass on the bar, and slid it to the lithe man on the end. Kiernan—the Easter Bunny—got his drink and raised it in thanks before disappearing into the crowd. Zayne gritted his teeth. Everything seemed to remind him of Veronica. He had almost bitten Kiernan’s head off earlier when he had come to the bar for a drink. Turning to restock the glasses behind the bar, he wished it was already closing time. “You’ve been avoiding me,” a silky voice said behind him. Cursing softly under his breath, Zayne wondered if he ignored the person, would he go away. “Turn around, Zayne. I’m not going anywhere.” Resigned, he turned. Micah leaned against the bar, his attention on the patrons dancing and eating around the room. The other bartenders moved around, serving drinks. Zayne walked over and stood next to him, matching his pose. Micah turned suddenly. His rich lavender eyes were intent. His long locks were loose, framing his sun-kissed face. The intensity in his gaze was unnerving. Zayne shifted and stared back at him. Micah smiled, flashing white teeth. “Why haven’t you gone home in six days?” Micah asked lazily. “Just getting some work done.” Zayne shrugged. Micah’s look clearly said he knew Zayne was lying. “I’ve stayed at the club before,” Zayne said defensively. “Hell, my office is equipped with a full bedroom and bath for that reason.” Micah raised an eyebrow and said nothing. Zayne crossed his arms over his chest and kept his mouth shut. A few minutes passed, and then Micah sighed, turning to face him. “It’s only been a few days. It take—” “I don’t want to talk about it.” Zayne slashed the air with his hand for emphasis. “I do,” Micah countered.

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Zayne glared at him. Micah gave an unrepentant grin. Zayne sighed and recrossed his arms. Micah studied him, then said softly, “It takes time. Imagine coming into a situation that is totally beyond anything you ever knew existed.” “I know. I know. But it still—” Zayne cut himself off. “It still hurts,” Micah finished for him, then touched his shoulder. “We’ve been friends for a long time, Zayne, and I can see this is hard for you. You’re used to fighting for what you want”—Micah grinned—“and getting it. But this time, you did the right thing by giving her time. It will all work out.” Zayne narrowed his eyes. “What do you know? What did you see?” “Nothing specific about what will happen between you and Veronica, but I know she’ll be decid before what I felt happens.” Micah looked at him, his gaze troubled. “Nothing concrete, but something is coming, something that will affect the club and all of us in someway. I can’t get a clear picture of it. It makes me uneasy.” Zayne straightened, startled. Micah, as an Oracle, usually knew what would happen before it did, especially when it concerned the club. Micah looked around. Zayne could feel the tension in him. He touched his friend’s shoulder, and Micah looked at him. “Whatever it is, we’ll face it together, Klieneds—my friend,” Zayne pledged. Micah put out his hand; Zayne gripped it and pinched the middle of his arms, sealing the pledge. “Thank you, my friend,” Micah replied solemnly. He released Zayne’s arm, then leaned against the bar again, giving Zayne a sly look out of the corner of his eye. “You know, even when Veronica makes her choice and we face whatever this is together, I’m not going to let you fade into the silk and shadows.” Zayne looked at him, startled. “Yeah, I did see that. Ain’t happening,” Micah said drily. “You have no say in my choices.” Zayne glared at him. “Believe what you want. You’re not the only one who gets what they want.” Micah shrugged and gave him a feral grin. He shivered, then turned, and a predatory grin came over his face.

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Zayne shook his head and mumbled, “It’s been months already. You should be able to control yourselves by now.” “Never. I’ll always want her with this hunger. That’s the best part of finding your soulmate,” Micah replied without looking at him. “Well, go to your room before you all drive the place into a frenzy like last time. Security was pissed. They had to drag people from pawing each other on the dance floor.” “Aw, Jian is a pain in the ass. She’ll get over it.” Micah waved a hand, still not looking at him. “Yeah, but you won’t be the one to have to deal with her. When she’s in a mood, it isn’t pretty.” “Whenever isn’t she in a mood?” Micah snorted. “True. But she’d rather kick people’s asses for breaking club rules than haul them to rooms.” “Hmmm…” Micah replied. Zayne shook his head, knowing he wouldn’t get any more conversation out of Micah with Syn near and the two of them horny. “You and Syn are hopeless. Go and—” He trailed off as he turned and saw the woman standing with Syn. Veronica. I didn’t feel her. How could I not feel her being here? Zayne turned to Micah and bopped him over the head. “Hey!” Micah cried, then glared at him. “You and Syn are shielding us from each other. Stop it right now.” Micah shook his head. “No, we’re not.” He studied Zayne. “You didn’t know she was here.” Micah looked back at the women, and frowned then at Zayne. “How is that possible?” Zayne shrugged. Shifting away, he closed his eyes briefly. There was only one way he knew of. Opening his eyes, he locked gazes with Veronica. She is so beautiful. Pain blossomed in his heart. His not feeling her was all the answer he needed. “I’ll be in the back doing some paperwork.” His voice was hoarse. “Zay—”

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He walked away rapidly without answering. Ignoring the calls for his attention, he crossed behind the bar, then opened the door leading out. Skirting the tables, he went past the stage to the door. Stepping through it, he closed it behind him and continued on to his office. Stepping inside, he closed the door, strode to his desk, and sat in his chair. The sound of silk came to him. Ribbons came around him, holding him. He petted it softly. He’d let the comfort of the silk calm him, at least for a few minutes. Although he already knew Veronica’s choice, he knew she would come and tell him face to face. Absently, Veronica listened to Syn. Her attention was on Zayne, who was talking at the bar with some man. He looks so sexy. Hungrily, she studied his graceful movements as he talked. There was something different about him. It took a moment to register what it was. He seems so tired and sad. A smack on her arm caught her attention. “Ow.” She laughed as she turned back to Syn. Syn’s amber eyes twinkled merrily, and her honey-toned skin had a slight blush. “You’re not paying any attention to me. Oh...” Veronica instinctively reached for Syn as she shuddered. “Syn, are you okay? Let me get you to a chair.” She looked around frantically. “I’m fine.” Syn’s voice was huskier than usual. Watching her, Veronica could see she was trembling, and a light sheen of sweat was on her face. She put her hand on Syn’s forehead. “Uh-uh, you’re not. You feel warm, and you’re shivering. Where is this Micah fellow, so he can take you home to rest?” “He should. It’s his fault. He’s over at the bar with Zayne.” Syn laughed sensually. Veronica looked back at the bar. Zayne was staring at her. His icy green eyes made her quiver. He averted his gaze, said something, and walked away. Confused, she watched him leave. She turned her head, and her breath stalled. The man leaning against the bar who Zayne had been talking with, who could only be Micah, was watching them. He was gorgeous. They were standing close enough that she could see his rich lavender eyes offset

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by curling lashes. She wondered why, instead of making him seem feminine, his eyes and lashes only made him seem more male. The look of predator in his gaze made her shudder. Micah shifted, making his long locks frame his sun-kissed features of chiseled masculine perfection. All his attention was on Syn. The look in his eyes made Veronica look away. It was private and intimate. “Stop it,” Syn said. Veronica looked at her, confused. “Stop what?” Syn glanced at her, looking even more flushed. “Micah is being naughty. Telling me things.” Curious, Veronica looked back and forth between them. “He’s talking with you in your mind.” “Yeah,” Syn breathed. “Stop. I need to talk with Ronnie.” She winked at Micah, then looked at Veronica. “So, did you check out the website link I sent you?” “I did, and couldn’t believe what I was seeing. “ Veronica shook her head, then amended, “Well, I could, seeing what Zayne did and this place.” She looked around. Her eyes widened as she took in the woman with wings dancing with the man with a sickle. The man nodded and grinned. She looked away quickly and stuttered, “Is that D…Death?” Syn looked behind her and laughed. “Yeah, that’s one of the Death Guardians. His name is actually Devin.” “Is someone going to die?” Veronica asked, almost afraid to know the answer. “Eventually, but not here.” Syn looked at Veronica. “Did you get to explore the site I sent you too?” “Yeah. I didn’t even know it existed—a place where you can find all the info on supernatural beings.” “Actually, you would have never found it if I didn’t give you the link. No humans know about it unless someone in the super community tells them. It’s heavily guarded. I thought it would help you better understand. I know you like facts, and things you can actually do research on.” Veronica laughed, unable to disagree. “Yeah, it helped. You know, it’s going to take more than that to get Lissa, Sammy, and Nicki to believe you.”

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Syn rolled her eyes. “The three Doubting Thomases. Yeesh! I don’t know how I’ll get them to believe. Maybe when they come to meet Micah, I’ll send them to the site and give them some blood to test or something. Hell, maybe I’ll have to let Nicki take a couple of donations from people, since knowing her, she’ll think I rigged it somehow. “ Veronica laughed, knowing Syn was correct. Their other friends, the two scientists and the doctor, would be hard to convince that there are other beings in this world. Veronica looked Syn up and down. “So, you’re some ancient race that is like, big shit or something?” Syn blushed and laughed, swatting her. “Yeah, something like that.” “Exactly how old are you, anyway?” “Now, you know, girl, you never ask a woman her age.” Syn gave her a haughty look. Veronica laughed. “Please. I am so going to find out.” “You can try. So, you saw the Club Immortality site?” “Yeah. Very nicely designed, and lots of info.” “Hmm…yeah. But how did you know about my species being ancient and such? It wasn’t on there.” Syn frowned. “You’re in Suppedia.” “Oh my God. Really? What did they say?” “Wouldn’t you like to know? Tell me your age, and we can talk.” Syn snorted. “I’ll go on later and look for myself.” Her expression became serious. “Did you find info on Htrae Elves? I tried to find it, but there was nothing.” “Really? I found a site dedicated to them.” Syn’s eyes narrowed, and then she grinned. “Hmm…must be an ‘only those who need to know’ sort of site.” “Huh?” “Nothing. Let me introduce you to Micah.” Syn linked arms with Veronica, and they started walking towards the bar. “Why haven’t you asked if I made a decision about Zayne?” “You wouldn’t be here if you hadn’t.” Syn shrugged, then patted her hand. “Whatever you decide, I’m here for you.”

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Veronica blinked back tears from her eyes. She knew Syn and all their friends would be. Heck, even if Lissa, Sammy, and Nicki never knew what happened, they would be there for her, ready to kick someone’s ass. Not wanting to think about it yet, she changed the subject. “Jian tried to search me earlier when I came in. Why did you make her head of security?” Syn laughed. “Did you try and deck her?” “Of course! She moved out of the way so fast I didn’t see her. All I heard was her laughing. She didn’t come back.” Curiosity made her ask, although she’d promised herself she wouldn’t. “What is she? All I could find was her name. She was there as a super being, but not what she is. Every site I went to just seemed to vanish.” “It’s not my place to say. You’ll have to ask her.” Syn shook her head. “God. Getting answers from Jian is like pulling teeth,” Veronica groused. “Poor baby. You’ll be okay. Make her drunk,” Syn suggested. “Like that’s going to happen. Last time, I was the one who woke up naked in my car with no memory of getting there. Thank God I keep spare clothes in my trunk, and Jian didn’t know.” Syn laughed. “You were crazy to go drinking with her.” “She tricked me.” Syn rolled her eyes. “How many times have you been out drinking with her?” Veronica glared at her, then mumbled, “A few.” Syn snorted. “So she tricked you each time?” “Kiss my butt,” Veronica said. “I would, but Zayne might hurt me,” a silky voice replied. Veronica flushed, jerked her arm away, winced, then glared at Syn. “You could have said something.” “Why?” Syn laughed. Ignoring her, she turned to face Micah. He was sexier close up. “Since Syn is too rude to introduce us, I’m Veronica Gunn. Her ex-friend.” She glared at Syn again. Syn blew her a kiss. Veronica growled. Micah laughed. “It’s nice to finally meet you.” He took her hand in his and raised it to his lips.

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Veronica watched him, smiling. Micah frowned, then glanced at her. He threw his head back and laughed. Syn looked confused. “That’s why Zayne didn’t know you were here.” “What?” Veronica asked, and looked towards the door across the room which lead to his office. “What are you talking about?” Syn asked. “Have you tried to read or communicate with her telepathically?” Micah asked. Veronica returned her attention to them. Micah’s arm was around Syn’s waist. “No. I didn’t want to intrude.” “Can she try?” Micah asked. “Sure,” Veronica replied. Syn frowned at Micah, then looked at Veronica. Syn’s eyes widened, and then she chuckled. “Now, now. What have you been up to, Veronica?” “It’s amazing what you can learn on the internet.” She grinned. They all laughed. “It’s amazing you can shield so well already.” “After I left here, all of a sudden, people were talking to me in my mind. I didn’t like it. It was one of the first things I looked for when I went to the link you sent me.” Micah and Syn looked at each other. It made her uneasy. “What?” “Your shielding works, but it won’t work against certain races. I wasn’t trying hard to get in, but I did. So did Micah. Zayne didn’t feel you because he didn’t want to take away your choice,” Syn answered. Veronica wasn’t sure if she believed them. Syn and Micah exchanged another look, then returned their attention to her. “Instead of you standing here and stalling with us, you should be talking with Zayne,” Micah said. Then he added silkily, “I would threaten to kill you if you hurt him, but Syn wouldn’t like that.” “Hey.” Syn elbowed him in the stomach. “See?” Micah said.

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Ignoring him, Veronica looked at Syn and touched her hand. “I’ll speak with you later.” “I’ll be here, kicking Micah’s butt.” Syn glared at him. Veronica walked away. She could hear them bickering about Micah threatening her friends, and Micah’s reply that he was defending a friend too. It got silent. She turned to look back at them. They were kissing passionately, oblivious to everyone. She was happy for Syn, and already could tell she would like Micah. Quickly, she continued on her way across the floor, through the door, and down the hall. She stopped in front of his door and took a breath. Knocking, she waited for a response. When none came, she opened the door, going inside and closing it behind her. The room was empty. Remembering the last time she was here, Veronica walked deeper into the room, towards the corner by the desk. Just before she reached the desk, a sound made her stop.

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Chapter Four

The sound of silk slithered along the walls. Suddenly, Zayne sat forward from the desk. The silk and shadows that were surrounding him receded, and he looked formidable, like the warrior she knew he was. Veronica almost smiled, but the look in his icy green eyes stopped her. Zayne watched her, expressionless. “Just give me your choice and leave,” Zayne said. The sharpness of his tone surprised her. She realised that he seemed cold and detached. Narrowing her eyes, she looked further and saw the slight tremor in his hand clenched against the desk. Instead of answering, she walked over to his desk and sat on the corner close to his chair. Zayne’s eyes followed her movements, and his fist clenched tighter. “So, do you know what my answer is?” she asked lazily. Zayne closed his eyes briefly, then replied coldly, “Yes. You didn’t need to come tell me, although I know you feel obligated to.” She stifled a sigh. “Okay, Mr. Know-It-All. What is my answer?” “To not accept this. Accept us.” The look in his eyes made tears clog her throat. She smiled gently and leaned over, looking him in the eyes. “You’re wrong.” Cautious hope filled his eyes. “What do you mean?” “Scoot back.” She waited until he did as she asked, then straddled his lap. “Do I have to spell it out for you? I don’t know everything about you yet, but I’m willing to give it a shot.” Zayne’s arms came around her tightly, and he held her close. She could hear the racing of his heart. He held her for a while, not saying a word. Finally, she lifted her head and looked at him, eyes narrowed. “Although I know that we are somehow already mated. “ Surprise, and then a sheepish grin, curved his lips. He opened his mouth, but she placed a finger over his lips.

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“Shh…I know we’re technically, in your eyes, already married, but buddy, you’re going to court me, date me, and take all the steps that we humans do. Then you’re going to propose”—she pursed her lips—“and I might say yes.” Zayne laughed. “Anything, my wuilies.” Veronica looked at him and placed her hand over his heart. “Anything, my soon-to-beafter-a-proper-courtship woilies—husband.” Pleasure at her use of his language filled his eyes. Zayne chuckled. “How do you know so much about my culture and language?” “The internet. Syn sent me the portal thingy for the super beings. I did some research, although I still need to know more.” She linked her hands around his neck. “For instance, why’d you retire when you were a kick-ass warrior leader of your people? Oh, and why are there no pics of your king? An—” Zayne put his hand over her mouth. “We have all the time in the world for me to tell you about those things, but first I have something to ask you.” The husky timbre of his voice made her heart beat faster. “Do you remember my promises when we made love?” Zayne smiled wickedly. “Yes,” she breathed. “And?” “I felt you up until last night.” She moaned. “I need to feel you again.” “Do you remember my other promise?” “No.” Her heart thumped, and her mouth went dry. With all the wicked things he had done to her and his whispers, she couldn’t remember what he was referring to. Zayne leaned close to her ear and whispered, “I want to taste your sweet pussy. It’ll be somewhere private, so you can scream and purr for me.” At his words, her pussy contracted. Zayne’s sensual chuckle tickled her ear, causing goose bumps all over her body. “Taste me now. Lick me…umm, I mean… We can go to my house. It’ll take al—” she babbled. Zayne kissed her, stilling her words. His kiss was carnal and a promise of decadent pleasure to come. Her cunt flooded with wetness. She rubbed against him, trying to get some

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relief from the ache between her thighs. Zayne traced a finger along her neck. She gasped as she felt a tingle, and then his hand touched bare skin. “I like that you can make my clothes go away when we need it. Very handy.” “I live to serve.” He growled. His fingers left a hot trail down her chest, across her breasts, teasing her nipples before continuing down her ribs and her stomach. He paused, stroking the bare skin of her nude mound. A purr bubbled from her. His hand caressed slowly across her pussy lips, then unerringly found where she throbbed. Zayne’s long fingers tweaked her aching clit, stroking in and out of her wet slit. Whimpering, Veronica pumped her hips against his fingers. Pleasure built, overtaking her fast. He stilled. She whimpered against his mouth. “Please…touch…me…more…harder…please.” She reached down and forced his hand against her harder, grinding against his fingers. “I want to taste you.” Wetness flowed from her as he withdrew his fingers. Delirious with desire, Veronica whimpered as he lifted her off his lap. “Bend over,” he demanded. She complied with his command, bracing her hands against the desk, facing away from him. His warm hand stroked her butt. She shivered at his caress. She glanced up at the picture on the wall where the door was. From her research, she knew it was of him in battle. He was a warrior, and he was about to take her. A wet tongue stroked along her ass. She purred, flattening her hands on the desk. A sharp nip made her yelp, and then she sighed as he kissed the sting, then licked it. Moaning, she rolled her hips. Slowly, he travelled down each, and then kissed along the crease of her ass. Widening her stance, she pushed back at him. His hands smoothed the small of her back, and he pushed her flatter. Her pussy was dripping with desire. A soft growl vibrated against her crease, just above her pussy. The sensation made her bellow. Zayne murmured, causing more sensation. His hands pushed, spreading her, and then his tongue stroked along her aching slit from top to bottom, over and over again. “Oh…God…. yessss… ple…ase.” Zayne nibbled her pussy lips and countered it with long licks. His hands clenched on her hips, and then he pulled her roughly back against his mouth. Veronica moved against

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him. His growl shivered along her clit. Zayne sucked ravenously. Veronica arched her back, spreading her legs wider for his taking. “Sweet and creamy,” he murmured. “Give me all of it.” “Take it all. Ummm…like that,” Veronica purred. “Turn over,” he commanded She turned quickly. He helped her slide onto the desk, then put his hand between her breasts, pushing her until her back touched the cool surface. As her heated skin touched, she gasped. Zayne leaned over and licked between her breasts, bathing her with his tongue. He licked down across her ribs, stomach, and the front of her mound. He leaned into her open pussy and inhaled deeply. A rapturous look came over his face. He rolled his eyes to meet hers, then leaned in and licked along her slit. “Fuck!” Zayne started a fast rhythm, fucking her with his tongue—in and out, over and over again, then a long lick and soft bite. He varied each time. Veronica rose up on her arms and looked down. His white teeth bit gently on her clit, and then his tongue licked around her clit before he engulfed it between his lips. She threw her head back and screamed her release. Wetness drenched her ass as the pleasure continued to swamp her. Rolling her hips, she arched her back and pushed down, grinding her pussy against his face. Shivers racked her. He didn’t let up on his sensual mastery, continuing with his bite, stroke and lick of her clit and pussy. “Ummmm…Oohhh!” Veronica grabbed his hair and held him to her as another orgasm overlapped first. She pushed harder against his tongue, holding him as she fucked his face. Veronica moaned as shivers of release flowed out of her. At the taste of her come on his tongue, Zayne pulled her hands out of his hair, stood, and, in one motion, thrust into her climaxing cunt. He leaned over, kissing her, sharing her addictive taste. Veronica suckled on his tongue, hungry and out of control. Her nails raked his back, and he hissed, enjoying the bite of pain. She pumped her hips in time with his. The sound of her harsh breathing echoed in his ears. She murmured incoherently. Her body stiffened, and he knew another orgasm was not far away. Her breathing hitched as it had

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done whenever he made her come. She arched. He raised his head to see her. Her face twisted in pained pleasure, but it was beautiful. Harsh lines of pleasure etched her face, and her eyes went dark. Her kiss-swollen lips parted, and her scream rang in his ears. The vibration of her release around his cock made his balls tighten. He held it off, stroking into her, wanting more of her, not wanting to stop. Crouching over her, he kissed her. Veronica smiled and pushed at his shoulders. He turned until he was on his back and she was over him. With a wanton grin, she slowly rose until she was straddling his cock, which still impaled her. Her nipples glistened, and he couldn’t resist a taste. He leaned forward and captured one of the turgid tips with his mouth. He groaned as he went deeper into her clenching cavern. He suckled her nipple, murmuring at the taste of her in his mouth. Veronica rolled her hips and rode his shaft fast. He lost his hold on her nipple, lying back on the desk enjoying her taking of him. She rose off him until he was almost out of her slit, and then slammed down. In rapid movements, she repeated it over and over again, undulating her pussy, caressing his hardened shaft. She jerked back and forth against him. Her harsh purrs came with each motion. She plunged up and down against his shaft. “Growl for me, Zayne.” He growled loudly. His sac tightened painfully, and then his cock jerked as his release flowed out of him. Veronica continued to ride him up and down, prolonging his pleasure. Another orgasm made her quake. “Veronica!” She fell onto his chest, her heart beating rapidly. He hugged her close, turning her face and kissing her gently. She ran her fingers against his heaving side, then wiggled. He loosened his hold a little. She raised her hands and cupped his head, stroking his hair as they kissed. He released her from the kiss and looked into her dark grey gaze. “I love you, Veronica.” “I love you, Zayne,” she replied. Then she continued, “But I still want my courtship.” He laughed. “What does one do on human courtships?” “Watch TV and cuddle. Dates and so on. You can do some research on the internet.” She yawned. “Hmm…no sex?”

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She stopped mid-yawn. “That’s the best part of it. Lots and lots of wild sex.” He laughed at the vehemence of her reply. “Okay. Since we just had wild sex, let’s do this cuddle and watch TV.” “Where do you want to go—your room here, your place, or my apartment? It doesn’t matter, because I can’t move right now.” She yawned again. “Your apartment for now. I’ll show you my house later. Once we do this courtship, you can move in with me. Don’t worry. You don’t have to move a muscle right now,” Zayne said. “What do you mean, mo—” She paused and gulped. “Whoooo…head rush.” Veronica glanced around and looked back at him. “You really are handy. That’s some kind of teleportation thing, right? How did you know where my house was?” “I took it from your memories,” Zayne replied. He waved his hand and the TV flicked on. “You’re like a big remote.” Veronica chuckled. “No, here. You pick.” He levitated the remote to her. “Okay, but I don’t even know if I can stay awake.” She flipped to a channel, then glared at him. “Don’t say a word.” He shrugged. “It’s okay. I like the Sci-Fi Channel. It’s hilarious.” She shook her head, then snuggled into his chest. She shivered slightly. He waved a hand, and a blanket covered them. “Thanks,” she mumbled. He leaned back against the couch and held her. “You know, it’s really pitiful that you like the Sci-Fi Channel,” a deep baritone said behind him. Zayne stiffened and looked back. The man lounging against the wall behind the couch gave a finger wave. His heart clenched. This man could decide that Veronica should not be his. “Are all your buddies going to be dropping by without calling first?” Zayne glanced at Veronica. She was glaring at the man, then looked at Zayne. “I hope not. This is my house, and when we’re together, they better have some manners and at least knock.” She looked pointedly at the man against the wall. Zayne squeezed her, ready to defend her if the man took offence.

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The man laughed and threw back his head. His golden hair flowed around him, and his eyes, the same color as his hair, twinkled. “I’ll call, or at least knock first, next time,” He agreed. “You’ve done well, Zayne. Bring her by to meet the others. They’ll want to help plan this human wedding.” “Thanks, Raphian. I will,” Zayne replied. The man nodded and winked at Veronica. A golden mist enveloped him, and then he was gone. “Hmmm…so that’s the Htrae Elves King, huh? Seems like a nice guy. The stories online must be exaggerated. He’s fine. No wonder they don’t have any pictures of him. Women— are they called women? Well, I’ll call them that. Women would be knocking down his door.” Zayne looked at Veronica, shook his head, and laughed. He squeezed her again. “Yes, that’s him. And believe everything you read and double it. I’m not going to get jealous over him.” “I wasn’t trying to make you jealous. He is fine. I’m just saying. What’s this about meeting others and planning my wedding? We just started courting!” Veronica exclaimed. “The family. You have to meet the rest of the family.” “The rest? I haven’t met any of them yet. But whenever you’re ready, I will. We’ll have to discuss this planning my wedding thing.” “You have met some of my family.” She looked at him, her dark grey gaze curious. “ Really? Who?” “Galen.” Her eyes widened. “I’ll be damned. You do have similar features. You said ‘some’. Who else?” “Guess.” He grinned. He watched her eyes narrow, and then she started to think about it. Her mouth dropped open, and she started to laugh. “Good thing I didn’t piss him off. It would be hell to piss off the King and my future brother-in-law. So, are you a prince?” “Yeah, but don’t call me that.” He groaned. “Why not?” “I don’t like it,” he replied.

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“Whatever you say, Prince Zayne.” She looked at him and smiled impishly. He growled and tickled her. Veronica laughed and scooted down on the couch. He blanketed her body and kissed her. She hummed and returned his kiss. He pulled back. “How long do courtships last?” “As long as we want it to. Besides, remember, lots and lots of sex.” Veronica grinned. She gripped his head and kissed him. He mumbled against her lips. “I thought you were sleepy.” “Not anymore. “ She chuckled and rocked against his revived cock. “Good. Let the courtship commence. I can’t wait for the rest of our lives together.” Laughing, she licked his lips. Groaning, he kissed her harder.

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When dealing with the matters of choice and the heart, things are not always smooth. When dealing with two people who are lonely, but afraid to admit that they are alone, it takes a special touch—especially when those people are a stubborn retired Htrae Elf and a woman who is afraid to admit she craves for something more. Veronica Gunn found her something more in Zayne, although she still insists they need to court more. My old friend has his hands full. But, then again, he would say the same of me with Syn. Yet, we wouldn’t give up either of them. Club Immortality helps you open your soul to all the possibilities. These two lonely souls have found what they had been looking for—someone to be alone together with. It’s the unexpected that makes living so worthwhile. For now, they will tease and push each other while exploring all the pleasures and adventures of life. With their acceptance of letting go of their fears, they can live and enjoy all that is to come. Now, a lot of our patrons still have to learn the lesson that you are only limited by your own imagination. Nothing is taboo, and honesty between each other is the greatest of titillations. Come back and join us next time as we explore another story from one of our Club Immortality patrons. And now, a hint about our next tale. Even when we think we know where life will take us, fate has a way of guiding us on a different path. Until next we meet, embrace your nature and go after your heart’s desires.

Micah & Syn

About the Author Taige Crenshaw has been enthralled with the written word from the time she picked up her first book. It wasn’t long before she started to make up her own tales of romance. Her novels are set in the modern day between people who know what they want and how to get it. Taige also sets her stories in the future with vast universes between beautiful, strange, and unique beings with lots of spice and sensuality added to her work. Always hard at work creating new and excited places, Taige can be found curled up with a hot novel with exciting characters when she is not creating her own. Join her in the fun and frolic, with interesting people and far reaches of the world in her novels. Email: http://www.taigecrenshaw.com/contact.shtml Taige Crenshaw loves to hear from readers. You can find her contact information, website and author biography at http://www.total-e-bound.com.

Also by Taige Crenshaw Club Immortality: Lay Me Down Club Immortality: Burning Touch Horsemen of Apocalypse Island: Sin

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