The Buccaneer

THE BUCCANEER

Nia K. Foxx

www.loose-id.com

Warning This e-book contains sexually explicit scenes and adult language and may be considered offensive to some readers. Loose Id® e-books are for sale to adults ONLY, as defined by the laws of the country in which you made your purchase. Please store your files wisely, where they cannot be accessed by under-aged readers.

The Buccaneer Nia K. Foxx This e-book is a work of fiction. While reference might be made to actual historical events or existing locations, the names, characters, places and incidents are either the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, business establishments, events, or locales is entirely coincidental.

Published by Loose Id LLC 870 Market St, Suite 1301 San Francisco CA 94103-2907 www.loose-id.com

Copyright © October 2008 by Nia K. Foxx All rights reserved. This copy is intended for the purchaser of this e-book ONLY. No part of this e-book may be reproduced or shared in any form, including, but not limited to printing, photocopying, faxing, or emailing without prior written permission from Loose Id LLC.

ISBN 978-1-59632-788-7 Available in Adobe PDF, HTML, MobiPocket, and MS Reader

Printed in the United States of America

Editor: Irene D. Williams Cover Artist: Marci Gass

www.loose-id.com

Chapter One

Joi scowled at the caller ID box. Unfortunately, she recognized the toll-free number all too well. It was one of the three creditors currently harassing her. The list was sure to grow if she didn’t catch up on some bills soon. Of course ignoring the phone wouldn’t make the calls go away. If only it were that easy. But she felt helpless to do anything else. Unfortunately, trying to reason with their rude representatives had gotten her nothing but threats of further legal action and huge anxiety headaches. To say times were hard would be the understatement of the year and didn’t make the bill collectors any happier. It all started with her company’s merger six months ago. She’d worked for an automotive giant for a decade, seven of those years spent on the production line before a promotion to management. Working for the company was a tradition started by both her parents. They’d retired her second year in, having made a good living for their family after years of service. Suffice to say, she’d been around long enough to expect some changes to come about with the announcement of the merger but felt relatively safe in her position, especially with the promises coming from the executives. It was definitely naiveté on her part to fall for the bullshit, hook, line, and sinker. The empty assurances were short-lived, and changes moved swiftly through the lower management levels. Exempt employees were given the option of severing with a less-than-generous benefits package or taking a slight pay

2

Nia K. Foxx

cut and being bumped to hourly wages with their titles intact. The writing on the wall became glaringly obvious when the company reassessed the “needs” of the business further and cut management salaries even more. This time no packages were offered. In hindsight, she should have started looking for a new job once the first cutbacks were announced but foolishly thought the dust would soon settle and return things to some semblance of normalcy. Now she was lucky to get twenty hours a week at half the wage she’d lived on before. Like so many, she was forced into an already unstable job market hoping to find something to subsidize her income. Initially she turned to other automotive companies, but her experience alone didn’t seem enough for potential employers. Most required degrees for supervisory work now, which she didn’t possess, and many of the production positions were so flooded with applicants she didn’t hear back from the companies. It was becoming hard to keep hope alive when so few opportunities presented themselves. She glanced at her watch. It was nearly eight at night and her friend Eva was due to arrive at any moment to take her to a “surprise.” The message she’d left earlier had provided few details. Joi had already tried calling several times to tell her she was too tired for any socializing but all the calls had gone unanswered. Leaving a message now was a moot point since Eva would invoke the Fifth about receiving them once she arrived. There was nothing left to do but wait.

***** Thirty minutes later Joi was still waiting, only this time she sat in the passenger seat of her friend’s sports car on her way to an undisclosed location. “And this couldn’t wait until tomorrow morning?” “Nope.” Eva hadn’t been any more forthcoming with information since she swept into Joi’s home with a bubbly greeting and practically dragged her out. “You know how I feel about surprises.” “Yeah, but I like you in spite of your peculiar quirks.”

The Buccaneer

3

Gazing out the front window as Eva slowed to take the Bay City exit, Joi opened her mouth to speak but thought better of it. It wasn’t often she enjoyed silence around her friend who usually found it necessary to fill every moment with some form of chatter. It must be something big if the woman was taking a temporary vow of silence. “Here we are.” Eva beamed, pulling into an empty parking space of the Bay City Marina. Joi surveyed the sparsely populated parking lot. “Well, the marina looks like it’s closing down so you’d better make this quick.” Her friend was up and out of the car in a few seconds. “Just follow me.” Joi sighed her displeasure but trailed behind Eva through the double glass doors of the marina’s opulent building. It housed everything from a restaurant and gaming rooms to office spaces. It had been a long while since she’d stepped foot into the building and she immediately noticed the posh updates to the interior. A few years back the marina had been privatized by a wealthy family. Most thought it was the first step to making the location completely exclusive. To their surprise, the family had come in and made vast improvements to the harbor and surrounding area, going so far as to add some very affordable attractions that kept it bustling in the summer and winter months. They even offered a free summer boating camp for low-income children. Considerable resources had been used to build a modernized replica of a Viking pirate ship, named the Buccaneer. Initially, the vessel was used to host theme-styled cruises through the bay at reasonable costs to the public, which reportedly kept the demand high. While it typically remained docked during the winter months, the ship held an annual festival of “Lights at Night” that drew crowds from all over the world. She’d heard that the multileveled ship housed one large ballroom that was transformed to pay homage to several cultures’ winter solstice traditions. Overall, the changes boosted the local economy and were viewed by the community as a positive venture. The view of the owners as public benefactors shifted when whispers

4

Nia K. Foxx

began that their private “Exotic Masquerade Ball,” held during Halloween weekend, was actually an erotic cruise. It was rumored that the participants were able to live out their sexual fetishes aboard the two-day trip. For the most part, the whispers were pure speculation, since the guests were wealthy nonlocals who converged on the town for the purpose of attending the ball and did nothing that would qualify as deviant in the public eye. While people continued to wonder about the voyage, there was no proof that any lascivious behavior actually occurred on board. Joi remembered seeing a newscast one year in which a reporter, looking for a scoop, waited for the guests and crew as they returned from a trip. The most she was able to gain were beaming individuals who politely responded with a “no comment” reply. After a five-year run, people stopped questioning what happened on the annual cruise, probably because so many were either employed by the marina or had a family member in some sort of service there. Job security definitely had a way of fostering loyalty and the local shop owners couldn’t complain about the added business the marina generated. Admittedly, she was surprised that not one former crewmember was willing to sell an accounting of events, whether fabricated or not. She could only assume that those hired had signed the mother of all nondisclosure agreements. Last year, Eva passed their rather lengthy background check and tests, taking a position as a serving wench but she’d provided little insight to Joi who couldn’t help but ask what it was really like. For all her questions she’d only gotten, “I saw some pretty wild things.” Eventually, Joi got tired of asking, convinced that her friend must be sparing her from some very depraved details. It wasn’t that she was a prude, not by any stretch of the imagination. However, she couldn’t wrap her mind around the idea of people getting together for the purpose of some floating orgy.

***** “You’re kidding me,” Joi hissed, stopping Eva just as she was about to enter a door with a poster board that read “Exotic Masquerade Ball Orientation.”

The Buccaneer

5

“Surprise,” Eva said with genuine glee. “God, it was killing me to keep it inside.” Joi pulled her friend by the wrist a few feet away from the door, hoping to afford them more privacy in an already empty corridor. “What are we doing here?” Eva eyeballed her as if she were daft. “I’d say it’s pretty obvious.” “You can’t actually think I’m going into an orientation for that cruise.” She wasn’t sure why she was whispering when they hadn’t seen another soul since they’d pulled into the parking lot. Eva cocked her head, her almond-shaped eyes taking on a serious expression that wasn’t common for her. “And why not? Don’t act like you don’t need the money.” “I don’t need it badly enough to…to compromise myself.” Of course, maybe she couldn’t blame Eva for thinking she was in trouble. Eva knew things were tight for Joi. In fact, to say things were tight was being more than generous. Hell, she wished she could say she was living on a shoestring budget, but with her savings account at zero it was like robbing Peter to pay Paul and Jack each month. The only good thing to come out of the ordeal was dropping the fifteen pounds she’d been trying to lose for two years, but that was purely stress related. She was desperate for anything and had resumes in with every temp agency, even putting in applications at the local fast food franchises. No one was biting. Yet, Eva ought to know that signing up for what could very well be a sex cruise was sinking far lower than she could stomach. “And what the heck are you suggesting, Missy? All I did on that cruise was wait tables. The pay was excellent and the tips were phenomenal; they even had these little gold doubloon thingys we traded in for cash at the end.” “You were so secretive about it last year I wasn’t sure what to believe.” “Have I ever given you the impression I’d do something like that for money? Okay, well, other than the one time, but I was young and it was a dare.” She dismissed her past with a wave of her hand. “At any rate, they make you sign an agreement and give a rather

6

Nia K. Foxx

nice bonus for every year you come back. Why would anyone mess that deal up by blabbing about specifics? They’ve adopted the motto ‘What happens on the Buccaneer, stays on the

Buccaneer.’” “So, they buy your silence. Sounds really on the up and up.” Joi’s voice dripped with sarcasm. “They’re just careful and selective. I was lucky to finally land this job. I didn’t tell you, but I interviewed for it for two years straight before getting it.” That was news to her. Eva seemed cursed with the inability to focus on any one thing for too long, which made Joi often wonder if she suffered from a serious case of adult attention-deficit disorder. “Did you say two years?” Eva nodded in her normal exuberant fashion, making her look more like an excited child than her twenty-four years. “Frankly, I was surprised when they called me, but they did. I didn’t even have to inquire this year. I got a call from HR about a month ago.” The last statement was said with such importance it elicited a smile from Joi. “They prefer to hire returning people, but when I heard that another position opened up I immediately thought of you.” “What makes you think they’d hire me? I didn’t even apply.” It wasn’t a good sign that her friend suddenly couldn’t meet her gaze. “I took care of that for you with the backup information you asked me to keep at my house.” “You what?” It took all of her control not to yell. Copies of her personal documents had been given over for safekeeping just in case an emergency arose and Joi wasn’t able to act on her own behalf. Included was a limited power of attorney that spelled out how she wanted her affairs handled in the event she became incapacitated, birth certificate, and Social Security number. As flighty as Eva sometimes seemed, she’d proved far more reliable than the handful of family members Joi hardly spoke to. Seemed like the only time she heard from any of her relatives was when they were looking for a handout. She wasn’t sure why

The Buccaneer

7

everyone thought her job at the motor company equated to wealth. Even before the merger she was only just living comfortably in her moderate two-bedroom house. Eva shrugged nonchalantly. “I only needed your Social Security number really and a photo. I used that really hot one of us in Cabo.” She groaned. “Not the one in the polka–dot swim top and skirt?” “The very same.” The smile she fixed her with could have lit all outdoors. “Remember, you had every head turning. I don’t know why you threw it away.” “Maybe ’cause I had no business in the damned thing to begin with.” It was a spontaneous purchase made in the resort’s boutique after she discovered she’d forgotten to pack one of her own bathing suits. While the bottoms hugged her narrow waist and slightly rounded derriere in a flattering fashion, the top had her more than generous breasts threatening to spill out if she exhaled too hard. “I can’t believe you did it.” “I knew you would never do it yourself, but can you honestly turn down two grand plus tips?” It was a rhetorical question.

Two thousand dollars? “I don’t know about this.” “What’s to know? Wear the costume, smile, and keep the drinks coming. It’s as simple as that.” “And what if someone’s had a little too much feel-good juice and thinks we’re part of the entertainment? It’s not like we can just leave.” Eva smiled as if knowing her resolve was slipping. “There’s a cooling-off room for the ones who can’t handle their liquor, and they have a security team in case someone gets out of line. No one would think of messing with these guys. They’re huge and wear this minotaur getup that had me doing a double take. The good thing is they’re everywhere.” At her silence, Eva continued.

8

Nia K. Foxx

“Staff are completely off limits to guests for any hanky panky. If it makes you feel any better, I haven’t heard of anyone overstepping those bounds.” As much as she hated to admit it, the prospect was tempting. It was a one-time gig and the pay would clear up the two credit cards she’d maxed out paying her utilities. And if tips were as good as Eva claimed, she could very well take care of some other bills. Not bad for two days worth of work. Still, something nagged at her. The expression, “If something seems too good to be true, it probably is,” came instantly to mind but was overridden by another saying, “Don’t look a gift horse in the mouth.” “Okay, I’m in.”

The Buccaneer

9

Chapter Two

Her ears may have recovered from the shrill screech that emanated from her friend’s petite frame, but her mind still buzzed from the hurried, last-minute information Eva threw her way before pulling her into the closed room. They’d arrived just as the speaker took her place in the front of the medium-sized conference room, leaving them little time to grab their name badges and an employee handbook. Joi noticed the disapproving look the woman threw in their direction as they settled into seats at the back of the room. An hour of orientation had already passed, yet the speaker continued, confirming some of what Eva had already told her about salary, fraternization policies, and security. The woman reviewed the employee handbook’s code of conduct expectations in monosyllabic tones. Joi bit her tongue as she proceeded to read the lengthy nondisclosure agreement aloud and explain some of the already highlighted sections. If what Eva said was true, most, if not all, of the twenty-five people in the room were returning employees so she could only assume that the thorough explanation was for a few people’s benefit. They took a break long enough to stretch and partake of some of the provided snacks before resuming their seats. No sooner were they settling down for what Joi hoped to be a more lively presentation when two men entered into the room, gaining everyone’s full attention.

10

Nia K. Foxx

Wow, was the only thing that came readily to mind as the black-and-white pair made their way to the front. The men were, for lack of a better word…ginormous. Real word or not, it was the only adjective she could summon. The two could easily be six feet six, if not more, and their sheer body mass looked as if they spent every waking hour in the gym. Her gaze flicked between them trying to take in more detailed parts of their appearance. From her distance, she could only note very obvious things. Her eyes perused each, from the darker man’s shiny, bald, mahogany-colored head to the brown, blunt, shoulder-length cut of his fair-skinned partner. Eva nudged her none too gently. “Those two own the security company. Just wait till you see them in the costume, you won’t be able to recognize them.” Joi wanted to laugh at her friend’s rapt attention while the men took turns reviewing the necessary security precautions during preboarding, the trip, and departure. She was amazed at the lengths they would go through to ensure the anonymity of the cruise. No electronic devices of any kind were permitted. They were even limiting the garments that could be brought aboard. By the time they were done running down the restrictions, Joi felt that the only things safe were her undergarments. “Don’t worry, they provide everything and the cabins are not shabby,” Eva whispered. Cut off from all civilization for two days on a cruise full of sex-enthused, self-indulged rich people sounded like a recipe for disaster. Again, Joi thought back to the numerous collection calls she received daily. She really didn’t have much choice.

***** It was a good-looking longship, Ari silently admitted, watching the effort it took to secure the vessel to the harbor. The Buccaneer was a modern marvel, sort of a meshing of a Viking longship and cruise liner. The sheer architecture and mechanics of it all were true reflection of Kelsey’s brilliance. A sight to behold. Despite his favorable impression of the ship, it still didn’t change the fact he’d rather be anywhere else than indulging his youngest

The Buccaneer

11

sister’s request to finally tour the craft. He checked his watch. An hour was all the time he had allotted and the process it took to anchor the ship had definitely cut into a huge chunk of that. “Pictures don’t do it justice, do they?” Kelsey inquired at his side, admiring the pure majesty of the vessel that took three years, from draft to architecture, to complete. “Indeed,” he agreed. It was her design and Ari felt a twinge of guilt for not coming to see it before now. His busy schedule demanded a huge part of the blame but ultimately he could have made time to see her creation brought to life. At two hundred feet in length, the Buccaneer was the largest passenger ship sailing Saginaw Bay. Its outer hull was an exact replica of a Viking longship with its dragonhead design and rich oak exterior. The trilevel build allowed for modernizations like a sundeck and bar behind the ship’s bridge, a second level housing the large dining/ballroom, lounge, and a handful of VIP suites. The lower deck was made up the bulk of the remaining fifty cabins, along with a third lounge and bar. It was definitely a vessel worthy of the open sea and should not be constrained by the limits of Saginaw Bay. It had been a point of contention for the siblings when Kelsey proposed acquiring the marina for development and suggested it be the Buccaneer’s home. He still wasn’t exactly sure how she’d gotten the majority vote from their fellow pack members. Usually, his 49 percent was enough to make his word the final say without his having to pull rank as Alpha of the group. Later, he would berate himself for growing soft when all it took was one look from his baby sister’s big blue eyes to have him throwing his vote for the project. The entire venture turned out to be a success. The gala drew a huge response from wealthy shifters eager to interact with others in the sexually free environment, without the constraints of species prejudice. After this cruise, the pack would reconvene to discuss adding an additional weekend to the voyage to meet the overwhelming demand. Already, the waiting list was booked up for the next five years. Ari shook his head at how silly it was for

12

Nia K. Foxx

the shape-shifting community to be so closeted and hypocritical. If so many were truly opposed to interspecies relationships why then did they vie for the coveted spots aboard the

Buccaneer ? He’d heard of the numerous requests for permanent reservations and had even been approached personally by those hoping an association with him could guarantee a slot. The all clear was given and he followed his sister aboard the craft, curious if she’d ever get to the real point of the “tour.” Knowing Kelsey, she wanted something more from him and he was certain he wouldn’t like it. “As impressive as your ship has turned out to be, I have a sneaking suspicion it’s not the only reason you brought me here today.” “Why brother, I do believe there was an unsolicited compliment in your distrustful comment.” It wasn’t lost on him; she deliberately ignored his inquiry. The gangplank was lowered and a waiting crewman ushered them aboard. Ari was even more impressed by the ship’s interior. Seeing it as a model or as an online tour didn’t do it justice. His sister really had erected a thing of beauty to be admired for generations to come. She lingered over the tour of the captain’s suite located on the same level, but at the opposite end, as the VIP suites. Despite its medieval look, the captain’s quarters boasted all the creature comforts of home. Each modern convenience was carefully concealed in some arcane piece of furnishing. A large chest opened by remote to reveal a plasma television with a built-in computer, wireless peripherals, and WiFi connection. It was the only cabin aboard with the computer upgrade. A sprawling bed sat kitty-corner and was spacious enough for a person to forget they were in a cabin. Taking up half a wall was a large wardrobe with one door that opened to offer ample space for clothing beyond a two-day trip. The second door opened to reveal a small, fully stocked refrigerator, microwave, and coffeemaker.

The Buccaneer

13

“I’ve been in five star hotels that weren’t this luxurious,” she commented after demonstrating all of the amenities. Ari made a sound of agreement but held back any other comments while he waited. “I bet it wouldn’t be too much of an inconvenience for you to spend a couple of days aboard?” And there it was. The question had been posed to him only once before and that was at the Exotic Masquerade Ball’s maiden voyage. As Alpha, it was expected that he be given the first opportunity to pilot the vessel, but he’d flat out refused. His opinion on the cruise was made perfectly clear and left other pack members to vie for the honorary captain position. It had never been mentioned again until now. “Kelsey --” “Come on Ari, what would be the harm? In fact it might do a little good for the pack to see you finally showing some solidarity on this issue.” Had Kelsey been male he would have made her rue her words. Others weren’t foolish enough to question him. “The pack understands my position completely and none have been silly enough to rehash it, little sis.” “Oh, don’t you snarl at me.” He raised a brow. “I wasn’t aware I was.” “Maybe because you do it so often you can’t distinguish between it and normal speech.” “Is this your plan? Insult me until I agree to captain your little sex cruise? If so, your method leaves a lot to be desired.” Ari bit back a smile at Kelsey’s irritated huff. He almost expected her to stomp her foot like she used to as a child whenever she couldn’t get her way. “Come on.” “Why is this so important to you?” He knew there had to be another reason for her insistence. Why else would she risk his temper with a topic he’d closed years ago?

14

Nia K. Foxx

She pressed her thumb and forefinger against the bridge of her nose and her eyes drooped as she started a slow massage. It lasted all of a few seconds. “I promised Dara you’d be aboard this cruise.” The words tumbled out in a defeated rush. If it weren’t for his keen sense of hearing, he would have missed her mumbled response. Dara. The name rattled around in his brain with vague familiarity. Then recognition crashed down on him. “The Alpha she-male!” “Don’t call her that, it’s not like she’s really a hermaphrodite.” Kelsey’s statement lacked conviction. As far as he was concerned the jury was still out on that one and Ari had no intention of discovering the truth firsthand. The woman was nearly as tall as he, with biceps to rival most men. She had a thick, husky voice that went beyond feminine sultry to downright masculine. “What in God’s name would make you think I’d be remotely interested in a voyage with her?” The few women he’d brought around his pack looked nothing like Dara. “I didn’t think you’d be interested in her per se, I just told her I’d get you here. Whatever happens from there is between two consenting adults.” Although his sister’s tone held a note of playful suggestion, Ari found nothing amusing. In fact, it took effort on his part not to shudder at the mere idea. “Have I wronged you in some way recently?” She pretended to think. “No.” “So, what then?” She hung her head dramatically but she raised her gaze to meet his questioning stare. “I lost a wager.” “A what?”

The Buccaneer

15

Kelsey sighed and Ari knew she was about to finally come clean. It was a good thing because he was coming very close to losing his patience. “We were having a girls’ night and a friendly game of euchre turned a bit ugly. I swear she must have cheated; Linda and I were on a winning streak.” He crossed arms over the expanse of his chest. “Get to the part where I come in.” “Well, we decided to up the ante a bit and…I sort of wagered your presence here, needless to say we lost, and I need to make good on this.” “You bet me in a game of euchre?” His voice boomed, but instead of withering, like so many in her position would have, Kelsey actually stood straighter. She squared her shoulders as if preparing for the verbal assault ahead. “We were leading. There really isn’t a reason we should have lost except for the fact that Dara cheated, but I can’t prove it. So you see, I’m stuck.” “And now you have to find some other way to make amends because there is no way in hell I’m messing around with a woman who can grow a thicker mustache than I can.” It took three steps for him to be at the door and another half second to slam out of the cabin, muttering all the while under his breath as he bypassed the elevator for the stairs that would take him above deck. “I told you, you don’t have to go out with her. I only promised to get you on the ship,” she explained to his back. “Well, you’ve made a liar of yourself, dear sister, because I’m not doing it.” Ari was glad to feel the crisp lake air rush against his face. It helped to cool the angry heat radiating from him but only by a little. “Come on, what would it really hurt? You could stay in your cabin the entire time if you wanted; there’s everything you need to work remotely.” He turned on her, causing her to stop short. “And live in fear of stepping outside of the room?”

16

Nia K. Foxx

The expression on her face held disbelief. “As much as I’d pay good money to see you cowering from anyone, I doubt the day will ever come.” “The answer is still no, but make sure you take Rolf with you when you break the news to her. I hear she has a pretty awful temper and likes…” His words died with the approach of numerous slow-moving footfalls. A group of people were clearing the observation deck and making their way toward them. The guide paused as she spotted the pair, although Ari was sure their raised voices had alerted her of their presence first. Immediate recognition was evident on the guide’s face, but there was only a hiccup in her words as she halted the group a safe distance, obviously waiting for brother and sister to finish their conversation and move on. Ari’s gaze drifted through the crowd with a bit of annoyance at the sudden intrusion until his attention was pulled with a magnetic force to one face. One woman. His body tensed. Try as he might he couldn’t will the others, who obstructed his view, away. He wanted to see all of her but was forced to content himself with taking in the only visible parts. A soft, round face and long neck that tapered into strong shoulders. Her skin looked smooth, a deep sienna coloring that made his fingers itch to touch it. Thick, dark brown hair was pulled back into a ponytail, making him want to set it free and lose his fingers in the dark mane.

Did she enjoy having her hair brushed ? Hmm, he would certainly enjoy introducing her to the sensuality of such an intimate act. He saw her instant awareness of him. Her dark eyes rounded in surprise then darted away quickly as she feigned full attention on her guide. She stole a second glance in his direction and he met her tentative look head-on. He waited impatiently for their next eye contact only to be disappointed by her steady attention on the woman speaking. “Earth to Ari,” Kelsey said, looking over her shoulder at the group before turning back to her brother with a slow smile spreading across her face. “Hmm, looks like we’re here in time to see the crew who’ll be helping out on this weekend’s trip.”

The Buccaneer

17

Ari was fully aware of his sister talking, had in fact registered every word, but he couldn’t bear to take his eyes away from the woman. A possessiveness unlike any other he’d ever experience clenched his chest. Who was she? While other females in the group sent him curious looks, the object of his desire made sure to avoid another gander in his direction. A growl just loud enough to be heard by Kelsey erupted from his chest, and his sister looked back to the crowd once more. His jaw clenched and loosened reflexively, and he decided to take matters into his own hands. He was done waiting. “I guess it’s time the crew met their captain.” If Kelsey was surprised by his about face, she certainly didn’t voice it. Instead, she followed behind him, silently heading toward the group.

***** Joi had first thought the magnitude of the Buccaneer was something spectacular to behold, until she saw its captain. What a sight to behold. The niggling doubts that began in the back of her mind once they boarded the ship grew to a full-fledged alarm as she did her best to look anywhere but at the man now standing in front of her. He’d insinuated himself next to the HR spokesperson, who quickly finished her last thought before looking expectantly at the pair joining her and the crew. In spite of the difference in their sizes, Joi immediately noticed the familial relationship between the man and woman who’d been blocking the stairway entrance. Both had thick blond hair that hung just beyond their shoulders, the male with a more wheat coloring than the woman. Captivating, ice blue eyes looked out onto the group and she was certain she wasn’t the only one struck by their intense shade. Joi realized she was staring at the man and was held by the commanding quality of his stare. She had a sneaking suspicion he was denied very little. Refusing to get caught up in his concentrated focus, she did her level best to keep her attention on the female. To her dismay her efforts only aided in her drawing further contrasts between the siblings. His skin was very fair in comparison to the woman’s tanned complexion. Where she

18

Nia K. Foxx

was attired in casual jeans and a short-sleeved top, he was dressed conservatively, like he’d come straight from a board meeting to the marina. The dark business suit, surprisingly, complemented his fair skin and seemed to fit his less than conventional hairstyle. He was broad in the shoulders and in spite of the suit’s extensive cut, Joi could make out some muscular definition as he crossed arms over a broad chest. A gust of wind rushed by, catching his free-flowing hair. For a brief moment, Joi felt as if she were really in the presence of a Viking captain. She made the mistake of making eye contact once more. He fixed her with a predatory gaze so primal it made her breath catch. A warm chill ran down her spine and tingled its way throughout her body. She look distractedly down at her sandalclad feet, hoping the pair would say their piece and let them move on before she found herself ogling him further. “Um, this is Ari and Kelsey Yngvar.” Their guide introduced them and Joi noticed more than a few spines straightening. She wondered if it was uncommon to have the owners address the crew. “I’ll be your captain for the cruise this year.” His voice had a thick, opulent timber that could not be ignored. “Will this be a maiden voyage for any of you?” Eva pushed at her elbow in encouragement for her to respond. One other person had his hand held high in the air. He was a member of the housekeeping staff and seemed very enthused to be a part of the team, or so he’d said during their break as he made his rounds about the conference room, introducing himself personally to everyone. Reluctantly, her hand joined the other newbie and she made the huge mistake of looking at Ari. His eyes were like a trap and she couldn’t get away from his persistent stare. “Then I guess we’ll have to make a special effort to keep an eye out for each other.” Was it her imagination or was he speaking directly to her? She’d definitely keep a watch for him, to make sure she steered as far away from the man as humanly possible. Although she couldn’t quite put her finger on the reasoning, Joi knew Ari was a hazard to avoid, especially if she hoped to walk away from the voyage unscathed.

The Buccaneer

19

“You all know who I am; it’s only fair I find out who you all are.” A second set of group introductions ensued, with Ari shaking the hands of each person on the crew. “Joi, barmaid,” she said quickly, trying her best not to have to step forward but when the people in front of her parted to give him access, she had little choice but to extend her hand. It was supposed to be a brief contact, a quick brush of the hands to be over with quickly for him to move on to the next person. Only it didn’t turn out that way. His much larger hand swallowed hers in a firm grip. Electricity sparked between them at the contact, snaking its way up her arm. She couldn’t stop the audible gasp or the momentary weakness in her legs that had her stumbling forward. Luckily, she stopped herself before she fell into him. How embarrassing would that be? Her musing was short-lived. To her horror, she felt a distinct tug on her hand, which lead to another forward momentum that sent her doing exactly what she’d feared. He’d done it on purpose, she was certain of that, but to everyone else she most likely looked like a clumsy oaf falling into his body. “I got you,” he said next to her ear. Too close in fact. A hand beneath her elbow was used to steady her while the hand he’d pulled was now planted firmly against his chest. She could feel the thud of his pulse beneath fabric and skin. The hand responsible for her tumble was placed gently over her own to hold it in place. Dear God, was he…sniffing her? Indeed, he was. Surely someone had to notice his odd behavior, but from her vantage point all she could see was the material of his clothing. If only that were the only thing she was aware of, she would have been able to count herself lucky. Unfortunately for her, she happened to get a good whiff of his scent, too. It was like no cologne she could put a name to, but her mind was bombarded with various descriptions as it searched to label it. Strong. Heady. Masculine. Virile. She couldn’t isolate just one description. It embodied all of those and then some. Again, her mind registered a warning, encouraging her to keep her distance, which was quite impossible at the moment with her held so close to him.

20

Nia K. Foxx

“Excuse me,” she apologized loud enough for everyone to hear, not caring at that second that she wasn’t the cause of her current predicament, only knowing she wanted to be swallowed up into the comforting shelter of the group once again. Her first attempt to tug herself free was met with firm resistance and she was fairly sure she heard an animalistic sound akin to a growl. “No apology necessary. You just need to get your sea legs is all,” his sister said goodnaturedly at his side and Joi noticed the dainty hand placed on her brother’s shoulder. The growling ceased suddenly and almost as quickly she found her elbow released, although it took several more seconds to have the hand placed against his chest relinquished. She relished the sweet taste of freedom, moving on unsteady legs back into the fold of the crew. “Don’t worry. You’ll get accustomed to it quickly,” Eva offered in an encouraging whisper. That’s exactly what she was afraid of.

The Buccaneer

21

Chapter Three

It was two days of obedience training. Or at least that’s how Joi felt at the conclusion of the final session Friday afternoon. “Now, one final time. What’s our golden rule ?” their trainer asked. “Never break character,” the group said in cheerful unison. Except one. Joi mustered up enough enthusiasm to mouth the words as she stared skeptically down at the low bustline of her top. She tugged at the corset beneath the blouse, sending the garment a mental warning. She was supposed to be serving forty guests. How she could do her job and keep from showing off more of her goodies than were already on display was unfathomable to her. All the while, she was expected to keep a smile plastered on her face and do her best imitation of an eighteenth-century serving wench, which was another point of contention for her. She questioned the historical accuracy of it all. She’d never heard of serving wenches on Viking longships, and doubted seriously that they would have had the cockney accent they’d been practicing for the past couple days. And although history wasn’t her strongest subject in school, she was pretty certain buccaneers were pirates who frequented the Caribbean, instead of Norsemen. Not to mention the multi-leveled longship concept--any renderings she’d ever seen looked more like oversized canoes. But she thought better of pointing that

22

Nia K. Foxx

little bit of information out. Already, the trainer had singled her out as if she were the problem child of the bunch. To make matters worse, Kelsey Yngvar seemed to come checking in on the group each day and her curious looks in Joi’s direction were beginning to wear on her nerves. If they wanted to fire her, she wished they’d gotten it over with before she’d endured the many lessons of “Yes, Sir” and “As you wish, Mistress.” It was now D-day and from the looks of things she still had a job. Her only wish was that she could trade places with one of the chamber persons. At this point, she’d much rather clean cabins than play tug-o-war with her bodice another minute. Eva gave her a disapproving look. “Stop fidgeting.” “I know I’m gonna fall out of this thing. It wasn’t meant for a woman with a pair of size D’s,” she whispered. “It’s like the tailor completely ignored my measurements.” “It’s fine; you’re just being self-conscious. By tonight, you won’t even notice.” “That’s what you said yesterday when we started this whole dress rehearsal business,” Joi hissed for Eva’s ears only. Eva was unphased. “And you still haven’t given it a chance.” She gave her friend an incredulous look. “A chance to do what exactly? Have me fall out for all the world to see?” “All right, people. The Yngvar family awaits our first official run-through. Smiles everyone.” The wait staff consisted of four serving wenches and four serving men, who all swarmed the galley in preparation for their first duty before the real guests arrived. “You, you, and you.” The trainer pointed out two other women, including Joi. “Will serve the main courses. The others of you will serve drinks. If you’re not engaged in duty, I expect to you to wait at your respective posts until you’re summoned. Are there any questions?” Not a one.

The Buccaneer

23

The women filed into the large ballroom that needed little transformation for the evening’s festivities. An entire group of modern-dressed individuals sat at a center table. Joi counted twenty altogether and wondered if they were all Ari’s family. There were only a few who didn’t sport the blond coloring of Ari and Kelsey. At the head of the table, like the commander-in-chief, Ari sat, engaged in a somber discussion with the man closest to him. From the looks of things, he was doing most of the talking while the other man nodded. Several eyes shifted in their direction as the first group of servers converged on the table and expertly took drink orders. She noted not one ordered a mug of mead, as she’d expected. Instead, they chose more current drinks from margaritas to wine. In spite of her best efforts, she couldn’t stop herself from glancing in Ari’s direction. It was no surprise that she found him watching her in return. She could hardly blame him for staring today. The upper part of the short-sleeved ensemble hugged her form so tightly he probably wondered how she could breathe in the outfit. Not to mention her breasts that looked on the verge of breaching her top. Needing a distraction, she found herself really observing the mixed gender group, noticing how much the men outnumbered the women. A male looking to be in his early twenties cast her a long look and she smiled politely, resisting the temptation to jerk her top up again. The woman next to him cleared her throat softly and he looked suddenly embarrassed; his head lowered as he cast a guilty look toward the head of the table. Joi followed his gaze and was surprised to see Ari glowering at him. The drinks came back quickly and each person was served efficiently without the slightest mix-up. She was up next. Determined to avoid Ari at all cost, she headed for the opposite end of the table from where he sat. “What can I offer Sir this noontide?” she said, specifically targeting the young man Ari had sent a scathing look to earlier. He didn’t even bother to look up from his place setting. “Um…maybe it would be better if you started at that end.” He nodded toward the table’s head.

24

Nia K. Foxx

Not bloody likely was on the tip of her tongue, but instead she smiled and moved to the woman sitting next to him. “What about you, Mistress, is there anything you’d be liking today?” “I’m not sure I’ve decided, but it looks like Ari’s ready to order. Why don’t you see about him first?” Joi looked around to see how the other waitresses were fairing. None of them seemed to be getting the pushback she was receiving. In fact, Eva just finished scribbling the order of a second guest and was heading to the kitchen. Their trainer blended quietly into one corner, observing and jotting notes down on her notepad. She paused to give Joi an unreadable stare that made her want to scream. If she didn’t need the money so much, she’d be hightailing it right off the boat. But she did need it and for whatever reason the only way she could get through this final training exercise would be to face Ari Yngvar.

***** Never before had a woman affected him as much as the brown-skinned goddess stalking toward him. He loved watching the way her hips swayed with feminine sensuality as she walked toward him. Her hourglass frame had him practically panting. His cock swelled to life with a vengeance. He’d always preferred a woman with a little more physical substance and Joi, his woman, certainly had enough to offer him. She was an intoxicating blend of curves and muscles, a woman who looked as if she could match an amorous lover. He took his time letting his gaze rove over her body from foot to head. She was tall and he suspected her legs were long and shapely beneath the abundant skirt hiding them from his view. No matter, he would dispose of the damned thing and make sure she never wore it, or anything else for that matter, when they were alone. He didn’t let the garment impede on the rest of his perusal. Quite the opposite. His focus shifted upward to her exposed cleavage. The creamy, rich brown skin was like an invitation. His mouth watered at her bountiful

The Buccaneer

25

breasts heaving from the top of her bodice. He wanted to order everyone else from the room so that he could free those beauties and lavish them with enthusiastic attention. The words died on his lips as his gaze traveled upward and he met her disapproving stare. Outwardly, she wore a smile, but even a newborn babe would recognize it as false. She was angry. He could see it in her stride now, smell the heat of it on her body, and he was certain the other shifters could as well. It bothered him that she would be so opposed to serving him, especially when it was so obvious to whom she belonged. At least, it was obvious as far as he was concerned. She was his and the “training” exercise was his informal way of introducing her to his pack. Her new family. He’d been unable to take his gaze off her rounded curves the first day they’d met but she had walked away with the group after too brief an introduction. For two days he’d done nothing but think of her, wanting with every breath to see her again. In that time he’d done everything he could to learn about Joi Jones. Still it wasn’t enough. He was her mate and shouldn’t be learning about her in such a disconnected fashion. He didn’t attempt to conceal the hunger in his eyes his gaze continued to rove her body. His groin tightened and his eyes feasted on the generous swell of her breasts. He looked forward to the time when he could touch her as he wanted to. That time would come soon, he was certain of it, just as he was sure she understood it, too. “What can I offer Sir this noontide?”

Such a loaded question. He wondered what she would do if he answered honestly, if he told her he wanted her on the table to feast upon. His cock throbbed as his imagination conjured a picture of her splayed naked in front of him. “What do you have to offer?” Joi cleared her throat quickly and he knew she understood the true meaning behind his double entendre. He didn’t see the point in being coy. She was his. He wanted her. He would have her. It was all just a matter of time now.

Nia K. Foxx

26

She ran down the menu quickly, remaining polite but distant. Ari didn’t like it. He willed her to make eye contact with him but it was a pointless effort. “What can you recommend?” “I haven’t had the privilege to sample anything yet, Sir. Sorry.” “Then I will take whatever the cook is serving up as his special.” “Of course.” She nodded and he could see the pleasure on her face as she thought to escape to the kitchen. It wouldn’t be so easy. He reached for her, easily encircling her wrist to hold her in place before she could seek refuge away from him. Finally, her eyes met his. He saw the flash of annoyance reflected in their dark depths, the instant temper that couldn’t be masked by the subservient display. “Is there something else, Sir?” He wasn’t fooled by the sweetness that dripped from her voice. He lowered his tone for her benefit, knowing full well that the other members of his pack closest to them would have little difficulty hearing his whispered question. “Just curious. What is it about me that makes you so uncomfortable?” “Methinks you’re mistaken, Sir.” “Am I? So why are you so determined to be out of my company?” He nodded to where they were connected. Up until that moment, she’d tugged discreetly to free herself. Recognizing her desire to escape, the predator in him perked up. “I only thought to hurry with your meal. ’Tis certain there are others who would like their orders placed as well.” “It looks as if they’ve been taken care of to me.” Her smile faltered but was restored quickly. The sweet, plastic look directed at him was rebellious under its fallacy. Her body language made it obvious how quickly she would swap places with one of her coworkers if given half a chance. He wouldn’t be so accommodating.

The Buccaneer

27

“So, Joi, you haven’t answered my question.” Her eyes met his slowly and she leaned lower. He inhaled her scent, resisting the temptation to pull her even closer. Too much distance separated his lips from hers, but it didn’t stop the longing in him. He wanted her kiss. It was an act he found himself desiring more than his next heartbeat. “Look, Mr. Yngvar, I’m just trying to do a job here, nothing more and I’d just like to be able to accomplish that without any unwanted attention.” Gone was the sweet agreeability. She was dead set on thwarting his interest. The conversations closest to them stopped and Ari was very aware of several eyes staring down the table. He knew those in hearing range understood the challenge she was issuing, even if she didn’t. The predator in him acknowledged her rejection by licking his chops over the chase about to ensue. This time, Ari didn’t stop himself from pulling her closer. He saw the surprise register in her eyes, felt her pulse quicken beneath his fingers. His steely grip prevented her efforts to free herself. The beast in him was so close to the surface, urging him to keep his future mate at his side, to take her away from prying eyes and bind her to him in the way of his kind. No, it was even more primitive than that, and the animal in him didn’t care about prying eyes. He just wanted to make Joi his and squelch any more of her protests. He fought hard against his instincts, knowing he had to let her go before he allowed the beast within free rein. “I will take your words into consideration.”

***** Consideration. The word reverberated through her mind making her angrier by the second. Of all the arrogant, condescending things to say to someone. He acted as if she’d politely given him a recommendation. If that alone wasn’t enough to royally piss her off, the tone of his voice let her know he was lying through his teeth, and that pushed her anger into the stratosphere. Maybe a plate full of hot pasta in his lap would bring him down a peg or

Nia K. Foxx

28

two. The happy thought completely distracted her. If not for the quick reflexes of the server coming through the double doors with a tray of large mugs there would have been a major collision and mess at Joi’s feet. The slender brunette gave her a narrowed eyed look and mouthed “Watch it” before plastering a smile on her face, heading for the table Joi wished would just fall straight through the ship and into the marina. Eva was the first person she saw in the kitchen and from the looks of things she appeared to be waiting for her specifically. “What’s going on out there?” The inquisitive nature of her tone pulled Joi from her own thoughts. “I have no idea. I tried waiting on two people and was completely turned away. I didn’t expect that to happen. No one else seemed to be having a hard time.” “I didn’t,” she confirmed. “What’s even weirder is that the two people I did approach kept trying to pawn me off on the testosterone-driven captain.” Eva’s eyes widened and her whispered tone lowered even more. “I saw him stop Rachel from even coming toward him. You don’t think he planned it, do you?” Her brows furrowed. “He did all that so I would have to serve him? Talk about much ado about nothin.’” “But it wasn’t just nothing. I saw you two out there and I’d have to say the sparks were flying.” “Then I’d say you’re still feeling the aftereffects of last night’s getting-to-know- you party.” “That’s not it at all. First off, I can hold my liquor, as you well know, and secondly, I’m not the only one who’s commented on it.”

The Buccaneer

29

Joi groaned. She really didn’t want to be the subject of coworker gossip for the next couple days. “Well, I’ve basically told him to cut it out, so hopefully he gets the hint, but just in case, why don’t you take his order out to him and I’ll handle your people? I promise any tips I get I’ll fork over to you and you can just keep whatever he offers.” “Are you sure?” Although her friend looked skeptical, Joi didn’t miss the glimmer of interest in her eyes. She couldn’t quite blame her. Ari was a very handsome man and most women would give their eyeteeth to have him show them a modicum of interest. To her, he just seemed like a complication in the making. Her mother always said there were two types of men in the world: those looking to get in a woman’s pants and those looking to settle down. Ari didn’t look like the settle down type. There was a dangerous mystique about him she just couldn’t shake. At any rate, she didn’t care to add the difficulty to her life, even if it were only for a weekend. Feeling proud of herself, she scribbled down a hodge-podge order and turned it into the chef. With any luck, Ari would eat something that would disagree with his arrogant system and keep him cabin bound for the entire cruise.

***** Humming a generic little ditty, Joi felt completely at peace with the world as she reclined on the full-sized bed in the surprisingly roomy cabin she shared with Eva. At that moment her companion was laying face down on her own bed making sounds of contentment all her own. “I could fall asleep right now,” her muffled voice registered through the pillow. “Well, if you do, you’d better do it quick; dinner’s in an hour and will be double our little trial run.” “Yeah, yeah…I’d suggest you catch a little catnap yourself, Missy. Remember you’re the neophyte here.” It was good advice and she didn’t need to be told twice. She’d made sure that she was assigned the tables farthest from the captain’s for the coming trip and after finishing the trial

30

Nia K. Foxx

run without so much as a passing glance from Ari, she felt confident she’d thoroughly averted any potential problems with the man. It was a good thing, too, because after finally coming to the conclusion that the cruise could be an answer to her prayers, the last thing she wanted to do was back out at the last minute. Stripping out of her serving costume she set the bedside alarm and crawled on top of the soft covers. Only instead of drifting off to a peaceful sleep, her subconscious plagued her with visions of one man.

***** “If you’re sure about this, you’ll definitely have to do things a little differently. You have to remember she’s only human and our ways will be completely foreign to her.” Ari felt more than a little awkward taking advice from his baby sister. He’d spent his later teen years and entire adult life guiding the members of his pack, so it wasn’t often he was in a position to need to have someone else instruct him. “She’s my mate,” he said, thickly. Just the thought of Joi set off some rather primal impulses. If he had things his way, he’d have already filled her with his seed several times over and have his binding mark visible for all to notice. “And human,” Kelsey reminded, as if explaining to a child. “As much as I love you, dear brother, your abrasive approach may not be the best way to handle her. Maybe I should come, too.” “Are you suggesting I will not know how to properly treat my mate?” “Not at all,” she said cautiously. “I was just thinking that I could be of some help to you.” “Thank you, but as you know the cruise is all booked up.” Honestly, he understood her fear. So far he’d done a dismal job of concealing the effects Joi was having on him and could only imagine what two days aboard a boat with her would

The Buccaneer

31

do. Today was the first day he’d seen her since their meeting and he’d thoroughly botched that encounter. Admittedly, at the trial run he’d pushed too hard and no doubt came off like the poster model for sexual harassment, but these were different circumstances. She was his mate, after all, the holder of his heart, the future mother of his offspring. There was no denying the call of his soul to her. He knew she felt it too. It was inexplicable but very much a fact. He’d waited a lifetime to find her and now that he had there was no way he could tiptoe around the knowledge. He and the predator inside him were of one accord. The last thing he wanted was Kelsey tagging along and interfering where she had no business. She seemed to ponder the information. “Then maybe I should go in your place. I can sense the wolf in you is very close to the surface. Who knows what you’ll do with more exposure to her? She’s going to need your patience to guide her through what’s to come, not you hunting her down and exerting dominance.” “And what about your bet with the she-male?” “I’m sure I can convince her that Rolf would be the better catch.” He made a sound that could be mistaken for amusement. “I will find the best course of action to follow.” Kelsey looked doubtful, which only irritated his already stressed nerves. Something akin to a foghorn sounded, signaling the final call for passengers to board the ship. She hesitated before tiptoeing to give him a quick kiss and departing hug. “Good-bye Kelsey, I’ll see you Sunday and be prepared to welcome Joi into the pack.”

32

Nia K. Foxx

Chapter Four

“You’d think we were serving some of them their last meal.” In the kitchen, Joi’s verbal observation had a few of the seasoned workers snickering while they stood around taking quick breathers or waited for orders to be done. “Just wait until breakfast. Tonight’s festivities will have them working up a pretty big appetite for tomorrow,” a server warned.

I can’t wait. Her orders came up and she placed the three plates on a tray and moved back into the well-lit ballroom. The long table the Yngvar’s dined at earlier had been removed and been replaced by three generous-sized round tables that also adorned the rest of the room. Only the built-in stage and its adjoining hardwood floors was devoid of the tables. The curtain had been drawn on the stage so patrons wouldn’t be subjected to the sight of the DJ setting up his equipment for the ball scheduled to start in a few hours. After serving her last food order, Joi scanned the room to see if others in her designated area needed assistance. Relieved to see everyone engrossed in their meals or conversation, she made one more round to freshen drinks before returning to her waiting post with the other servers. The expansive room seemed to diminish with the presence of all the people there. If she didn’t know better, she’d swear they were in the middle of a hard body

The Buccaneer

33

convention and not on a masquerade cruise. She would be hard pressed not to miss the considerable size of the males present or the impeccable forms of the females in the overwhelmingly appealing group of people. She hadn’t noticed one blemish of skin or one thin or balding head in the bunch. It really didn’t seem fair to be granted looks and wealth, too. But none of the men were as breathtaking as one particular male. His absence didn’t go unnoticed, and, to her chagrin, she found herself scanning the crowd several times for a sighting. Even in the crowded room she was certain to recognize his blond hair and broad build. Where was he? More importantly, why did she even care to know?

***** He couldn’t shake the knowledge that somewhere on this ship was his mate, the other half of his life. Yet there he sat in his cabin, trying very hard to quell the sense of urgency that flowed through him. If he could just squelch some of his need, he could be in her presence without fear of acting on his primal instincts. The predator in him snorted and paced restlessly as it had done the entire time of his confinement. The solace he normally found in work eluded him. Having a human mate was complicating what should have been a very simple matter. Normally, when a shifter identified his mate there would be the cursory mating show whereby the male exerted his dominance over the female. Usually, the female shifter put up a good, albeit brief physical resistance, yet in the end succumbed to the male to whom she’d bond for life. Apparently, all the rules went out the window with the human factor entering into the equation. The shrill ring of the phone summoned him from his musings. “Yes,” he barked irritably. “Your presence will be required in fifteen minutes.” The even-toned voice on the other end informed him, not hesitating in the least at his rude greeting. He recognized the

34

Nia K. Foxx

minotaur Krell’s deep baritone immediately. He had always liked the shifter’s no-nonsense approach. The ball. He’d nearly forgotten about the event, would not have agreed to it if his woman wasn’t going to be aboard the vessel. “I’ll be there.” At least now he could see her again. Joi’s image took form in his mind. His wolf growled in anticipation. Ari made his way to the massive wardrobe where Kelsey said his costume for the evening would be, along with his other change of clothes. The sides of his mouth curled upward at the Viking outfit hanging on the door. It didn’t surprise him that she’d made the selection. Often, she and his other pack members commented on how he looked as if he’d stepped forward in time. Their Norse ancestry was evident in them all, but Ari felt a certain connection with their shifting forefathers. He donned the costume; all the while his mind was preoccupied with one thought, that he’d see Joi soon.

***** Joi had to hand it to all of the guests; they certainly came up with some damned good costumes. She looked through the masked crowd seeing everything from pirates and belly dancers to scantily clad witches and warriors. Personally, she thought Halloween was one of those holidays best left to children and had managed to avoid getting swept up in the frenzy some adults worked themselves into over the day. How ironic was it that she was to be a part of a weekend-long cruise dedicated to the theme? “They look hot, don’t they?” Eva whispered, sliding next to her along the wait station’s wall. “Hot isn’t even the right word,” she replied, absently adjusting her tight chignon and pulling the two curly tendrils of loose hair forward. Eva silently nodded, watching the gathering as if something spectacular were about to transpire. The sun was setting outside and dim illumination from hanging lanterns shone in

The Buccaneer

35

the ballroom to cast soft glowing pockets of light on the partygoers. Some tables had been removed and carpeting pulled out to elongate the wooden dance floor. Her heart skipped a beat as she caught sight of two man-beasts walking by. Her eyes followed one of the tall minotaurs and she was struck by Eva’s earlier information. Her friend had been right. Their costumes were spectacular. Their faces as well as the lower half of their bodies were a depiction of the mythical man-beast. Muscular bare chests and arms were the only traces of humanity left on the men. There was a seamless transition between the flesh of each of their shoulders as it led upward to the animated face masks. It was unlike anything she’d ever seen outside of some pretty darn good computer graphics on the big screen. Joi focused on one animal visage as it scanned the crowd of guests with dark eyes. Joi caught the silver glint of the diamond studded earring in his bull-shaped ear. For some inexplicable reason, its brilliance held her mesmerized for a few seconds. Her enchantment was abruptly broken as the tip of the ear in question twitched in a manner she’d only seen demonstrated in animals. She gasped. How had he done that?@ “That’s Krell,” Eva said in a low voice. Joi stared at the back of the dark-skinned man-beast as he walked away, her mind still coming to terms with what she’d just seen. The lights darkened even more just as a low drum beat began. “Look there.” Eva pointed toward the stage where two minotaurs stood on either side, beating some type of drum that stopped at their waists. Leather straps extended around their shoulders like a harness and led back to the instruments to hold them in place. The rhythmic beat was slow, old, and haunting. Soon, the distinctive sound of one, then two, violins joined in with a sorrowful melody. She could almost hear a story in the dramatic beat. The guests drifted slowly to the stage, many swaying in time to the ethereal tune. They waited expectantly. The music wove itself into her heart, pulling at something deep within. Suddenly, it stopped. The lights flashed off. Half a second later the original dim glow filtered through the room. Only this time it brought something else with it.

36

Nia K. Foxx

There on center stage stood a Viking warrior, looking as if he’d been transported across time and space. Her heart skipped a beat, and then began a gallop in her chest that made her clench her hands together in front of her.

Ari. His name wafted through her mind. She remembered thinking how much like a Viking captain he seemed on the day of their first meeting, but it paled in comparison to this moment. From his calf-high boots, linen pants, and leather, short-sleeved tunic he wore over a linen top, to the short sword dangling menacingly at his side, he looked like a reincarnation of the Norsemen of old. All that was missing was the signature horned helmet. No, she was glad he had foregone that piece of headgear, preferring to see his loose mane cascade around his broad shoulders. His light-eyed gaze swept the crowd, causing a stirring of anticipation in her belly. Would he look in her direction? “The Yngvar Pack welcomes you to our annual Halloween Exotic Masquerade Ball. As always, may you enjoy the festivities and delight in your heart’s desires.” The last words came just as his perusal stopped on the station of servers. “Mayhap this evening will find you in the best of company.” What followed was a round of “Here, here!” and other assorted cheers, which were drowned out by the sound of her blood rushing to her face and the ever-increasing pounding of her heart.

Breathe, she reminded herself even as she watched him hop off the stage in a motion that should have been jerkier and less graceful for a man his size. The crowd parted as he made his way through it and in her direction. She bit the inside of her cheek and prayed her heart rate would slow for fear that he might notice. It was a ridiculous notion really, but she had the oddest feeling he could sense the strange way he affected her. It was worse than the day on the ship’s deck, even more intense than the afternoon luncheon. She hated to think what any more contact with him would do to her.

The Buccaneer

37

There was no mistaking where his attention was directed when he stopped in front of the serving station. His gaze raked over her body with a look that sent goose bumps traveling all over her flesh. Try as she might she couldn’t shake the sensation. He came close. Too close. His nearness forced her to crane her neck to look up into his face. “I require sustenance.” It took her a moment to register that he’d actually spoken and even longer for her to comprehend what it was he said. She found her voice in spite of the lump in her throat. “Is…I mean…’tis there something particular you request?” His fair brow quirked suggestively, with long seconds before he spoke. “The chef knows, wench, so be quick about it.” He was several feet away when Joi called after him, “What table, Sir?” “My cabin will do nicely.” And with that he was striding purposefully toward the double doors that led out of the ballroom.

***** Nearly fifteen minutes later, Joi stood outside his door balancing a tray of food that could have easily been enough for three people. She couldn’t fathom why any one person would order so much. Unless. Her nervous energy took a backseat to a new thought. Her mood quickly soured. Temptation to leave the tray outside of the door fiercely overcame her and she would have acted on the impulse if not for the door swinging wide. Her hands shook slightly with nerves at Ari’s abrupt appearance. It didn’t help matters that he stood in front of her completely shirtless, giving her a view of his sexy, sculpted chest and abs that required a woman to run her fingers over them. Her mouth went dry and she jerked her insistent stare away from his honed torso.

Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, did he have to look like that?

Nia K. Foxx

38

There was no way some sleek female hadn’t already found her way inside his room to sample that. “Bring it in.” He instructed her in a thick tone that made him sound as if he’d just awakened. To her surprise, the cabin was empty, or at least the guest she assumed he was entertaining didn’t appear to be anywhere in the spacious cabin. But that didn’t mean she couldn’t be somewhere else. Joi placed the food-laden tray onto a dining table large enough for a few place settings. She noticed the wide plasma screen and the display of unopened emails that blazed on it. A wireless keyboard was tossed on a small barrel- looking coffee table that sat in front of a bench-styled sofa. She had to hand it to whomever designed the room; they definitely did a bang-up job.. She couldn’t stop herself from looking around the rest of the cabin with veiled interest. Nothing looked disturbed, not even the large bed. Maybe she was wrong and he was alone, which meant…they were alone. The door closed behind her. The sound of its soft clicking was the only audible noise in the still room; however, that crazy thudding heart of hers was pounding so loud in her ears she could barely think straight. He was close behind her. She could feel the heat from his body stretching out to her like a warm touch. Her lids lowered demurely as she turned to face him, hoping that by taking him in slowly instead of all at once she could reduce the impact of having Ari standing in front of her. She raised her gaze tentatively and swallowed back the lump in her throat. She was dead wrong. Nothing could lessen the blow of seeing him up close and in the flesh. She felt lightheaded. Her legs turned to mush and he was there in an instant, as if sensing her potential downfall. One hand went to her upper arm while his other arm snaked around her waist to hold her up. “Are you okay?” His voice sounded even thicker now, downright sexy, if that were possible.

The Buccaneer

39

She didn’t trust her own response, so she instead found herself nodding her answer. Time ticked on, yet he didn’t relinquish his hold, nor did she ask him to. They both seemed to be waiting for something from the other person. The loud grumbling that emanated from Joi’s stomach didn’t seem to be what either expected. “Sorry,” she said, embarrassed and barely managing a smile. “I haven’t had much of a chance to grab anything yet.” It was a true statement. She barely had time to swallow down a few bites of her own lunch after her afternoon rest and things had been nonstop from that point on. “Eat with me.” It didn’t sound like a request, but Joi nodded her consent regardless. She would have agreed to pretty much anything to have some space between them. Unfortunately, the width of the table wasn’t enough, especially when his long legs stretched beneath to trap hers between his own. As if that weren’t enough to put her on edge, he watched her like he couldn’t focus on anything else. After only a few bites of food, she was a bundle of nerves. Hazarding a look in his direction, she noticed how he quietly lounged in the chair. He hadn’t touched one thing from the tray. His arms rested casually on the side of his chair like a man without a care in the world. “Um…thanks for that, but I really should be getting back.” “Why?” She hadn’t expected the question and it took her longer than it should have for her to answer. “I have to work. That’s why I’m here.” “You still believe that?” That rattled her. “Excuse me?” “Do you still believe that’s the reason you’re here?” “Of course. ’Tis the only reason I’ve boarded.”

40

Nia K. Foxx

“There’s no reason to switch back into character for me.” “Methinks ’tis the best way to remind Sir of my true purpose here.” She rose as she spoke and was none too pleased when he did the same. “Would you like to know what I think?” She doubted her negative response would stop him from telling her anyway. “I think that you feel the connection between us as I do. The job may have brought you aboard but it’s not what kept you here; it’s not what stopped you from leaving today.” “Was that your intention in being so obnoxious earlier, to get me to leave?” “I hadn’t thought I was being obnoxious, as you put it.” The exit seemed a million miles away and with Ari standing between her and it the damned thing seemed downright unattainable. Regardless of the difficulty involved in exiting the room it still should have been the direction she headed instead of standing there arguing with him. “Really? I don’t know what else you would call your behavior.” “One might say I was making my intentions clear.” His intentions. She opened her mouth to speak but closed it just as quickly. What could she say to that? It wasn’t exactly like he’d left her an opening to argue a particular point. Her mind grabbed at the first thing that came to her. “Well, you shouldn’t. There’s a definite no fraternization policy between guests and crew, as I’m sure you well know.” “Then I guess it’s great I’m not a guest or I wouldn’t be able to do this.” He moved with a preternatural speed, covering the small distance between them in the blink of an eye. For the third time since they’d met, she found herself in his arms again, only this time he wasn’t assisting her. The intention in his darkening eyes was quite clear. There was no time to react. His head dipped and his mouth covered hers in a kiss that wouldn’t be denied. Her valiant effort to remain unresponsive was momentary at best. She whimpered

The Buccaneer

41

when he gained entry and his tongue sought refuge in her as if it were his right to do so. He stroked her with a need she felt compelled to answer. Her own response was a tentative exploration, at least until he sensed her acquiescence and pulled her even tighter in his embrace. He growled in a primitive way that registered in her mind as a very animalistic sound -- a conquering sound. His kiss did something to her she’d never experienced before, unleashing a floodgate of pent-up frustration. In a matter of seconds, she not only received him with no resistance but was just as eager as he to experience all his kiss had to offer. Heat enveloped her body, its point of origin hard to pinpoint but also of little consequence. All she knew was that her body was on fire from just one kiss. Ari seemed equally affected as he rained heated kisses down her neck. His hand dipped to the round curve of her ass, kneading the flesh through the thick material of her skirt, while pulling her closer. He groaned into the column of her neck. She shuddered with need at the scrape of his teeth on her flesh. “I’ve wanted this from the first moment I saw you.” He used his other hand to pull the knotted string of her top loose in one easy motion. The material parted as if in relief and surprisingly it still wasn’t enough to set her breasts completely free. To her annoyance, the front-laced corset continued to hold up but was no match for Ari’s seeking fingers. They were surprisingly nimble as he made quick work of loosening the bindings. He pushed the fabric down until her hefty globes spilled over to grant him full access. She felt hedonistic, waiting with an anticipatory need for his next move. The way his eyes feasted on her breasts she was hopeful she wouldn’t have to wait too much longer. “Beautiful.” The word came out in a half-growl. He ran a thumb over her nipple, causing an instantaneous ache to pulse through her. “Mine,” he declared and she could feel the heat of his breath against her flesh.

42

Nia K. Foxx

She didn’t deny his pronouncement because at that very moment she was his, to do with as he pleased. It was something she could ponder later when her desire for him wasn’t a burning necessity. “Say it, Joi.” He brushed the second nipple. “I have to hear the words.”

Words ? Who had time for talking at a time like this? Another teasing touch and she jerked in his arms, her back arching in a way that left no question as to what she wanted from him. “Joi,” his voice sounded as urgent as she felt. Her mind grappled with what she hoped was the correct response. “I’m yours.” He growled again, deep. The vibration worked its way through him to her. “Good girl.” She was done with talking, especially if that kept him away from action. She took matters into her own hands, literally, sinking her fingers into the thickness of his hair and guiding his head toward a breast. “I’m glad you’re eager.” She inhaled sharply at the first touch of his warm, wet tongue on her pebbled flesh. He sucked the sensitive flesh into his mouth and Joi nearly came right on the spot. The man had a mouth on him that should be classified as a sexual weapon. He licked the nub for good measure before switching to the neglected breast. It wasn’t a fluke. His mouth was just as erotic there and she arched into him. The fingers in his hair tightened and tangled into its abundance. She was going out of her mind, but it wasn’t enough. She wanted to have it all. His tongue and his cock simultaneously. Sex had never hit her this hard, never drugged her to the point of complete recklessness, but she felt that way now. “Please,” she begged, not able to voice her needs any other way. Ari must have done his own brand of translating. She heard the sound of something scraping against the table, felt the ample skirt being bunched up around her waist. It must

The Buccaneer

43

have looked completely ridiculous that way but she didn’t care as she realized that he was making a way to access her heated cunt. She helped him with frantic fingers, her hands leaving the wealth of his hair to collect and hold as much of the material at her waist as possible. Their movements were jerky but effective. With the skirt in some sort of mangled tameness around her waist, he easily lifted her on the table, pushing her across the shortest expanse so that her legs dangled over the edge. He spread her legs just enough for him to zero in on her covered snatch. He didn’t hesitate to dip between her thighs. “So hot and wet for me,” he mumbled against the thin fabric of her panties. She felt the thick press of his tongue against her, forcing its way between her labial folds. She moaned his name into the air. He pressed even harder, his tongue tantalizing her clit until a fresh coat of cream flowed from her. Joi could only manage a whimper of a protest when he dragged his mouth away from her, but she silently basked in the way he snatched the flimsy panties down her hips and thighs until they were finally discarded. He pushed her legs further apart, giving himself unlimited access to her feminine heat. He lifted his head long enough for his feverish gaze to rake over her. Her breath caught at the completely feral look in his eyes. “Mine.” His look dared his claim to be questioned. She didn’t dare. Seeming content with her silent compliance, he returned to the task at hand. His head dipped once more between her widely splayed thighs. “Mine.” He repeated what seemed to be turning into his mantra. There was such possession and finality in his guttural assertion that it resonated with a part of her she believed had gone temporarily dormant.

He couldn’t really think…but the half-posed question was pushed aside with the first stroke of his tongue on her feminine folds. The follow-up was just as mind-numbing because

44

Nia K. Foxx

he used his fingers to separate her puffy folds and give him direct access to her exposed clit. His wet tongue probing against the hardened kernel was like nothing she’d been prepared for. It was euphoric and sent her mind spiraling for something beyond her comprehension. In response, her hips thrust forward in an eagerness for her to fully experience what was to come, and boy, did it promise to be a doozy. He started with slow, deft strokes. His tongue lapped with a relentless repetition against her clit. His long lapping movements turned to vibrating flicks only to alternate between suctioning kisses that made her body jerk. “Yes, Ari…oh God, yes.” The sight of him between her thighs was an aphrodisiac all its own. He stared up at her, his mouth and tongue never ceasing in their efforts to bring her pleasure. She’d soon learn that it wasn’t his only interest. She spasmed under his ministrations but cried out as his tongue dipped into the sopping flesh of her pussy. She gasped and jerked at the amazing depth to which his wet appendage sank. Unable to hold herself up she fell backward onto the table, her hands knotting and bunching even tighter into the cloth of her skirt. “I’m gonna come,” she cried, seconds before the most powerful orgasm she had ever experienced took complete hold of her, wrenching through her. She felt weak, too weak in fact to stop him as he seemed intent on licking her completely clean of the evidence of her orgasm. She moaned in protest, her body feeling completely heavy. Drained. Ari stood to his full height over her. The feral look she’d noticed earlier seemed even stronger. He licked his lips slowly and took hold of her hands to pull her into a sitting position on the table. Maybe she should have felt embarrassed for her brazen behavior, but she didn’t. In fact she was feeling pretty reciprocal as her gaze drifted down to the rather prominent bulge tenting his pants. Oh yes, he was going to be a big boy. Neither spoke.

The Buccaneer

45

Words weren’t necessary. She pulled one hand free, cupped him into the open palm of her hand and stroked the full length of his cock.

Big indeed. She heard a low rumbling sound that could only be coming from him. In fact, she was sure it was. She looked up at him and his gaze held hers with such fierceness it made her hesitate. Joi nearly jumped out of her skin at the not-so-gentle knock on the door. She jerked her hand away as if burned by him. He growled and she realized that he seemed to do a whole lot of that. Odd. She sent him a questioning look. She wasn’t sure if he ignored it or if he didn’t comprehend the meaning. Either way, he made no move for the door and silence stretched between them. For one nervous moment, Joi worried that someone had come looking for her. The knock came stronger this time. “Come on, Ari, I know you’re in there and I know you were expecting me, so just open up.” Was that a woman’s voice? She couldn’t be completely certain. Another knock. “It’s Dara, silly.”

Yes, a woman. Although from the sounds of her she was coming off the tail end off one bad case of laryngitis. Dara. The name broke through the last bit of fog clouding her mind. “Son of a bitch.” She’d been right all along. Her eyes jerked to the sparsely touched tray that teetered dangerously on the edge of the table. It had definitely been a meal intended for two, but apparently Ari didn’t have the patience to wait for his other party to arrive before jumping to the dessert. Stupid, stupid, stupid. Feeling like a first-class idiot, Joi jerked her other arm free and managed to pull the corset over her exposed breasts. Ari’s eyes narrowed and he growled even louder.

46

Nia K. Foxx

“Save it, captain. And if you’d be so kind as to move out of my way --” The door rattled. “I know you’re in there, Ari, and from where I’m standing it doesn’t seem like you’re alone.” “Go away, Dara.” “Not a chance!” The person on the other side of the door sounded amused. Well, at least someone found this situation enjoyable. “This is not the time,” he barked at the unseen woman, yet he continued to stare at Joi. For a moment, she considered the idea that Dara’s presence just maybe wasn’t completely expected or wanted. “All right, if you’re not opening up, I’m coming in.” It was the only warning they got before the automatic lock released and the door opened. “Dara!” Ari snarled, whipping toward the door. The diversion provided Joi with the opportunity to hop down from the table. Turning her back to the door, she did a hasty adjustment of her top and skirt. The quick fix left a lot to be desired, but it was the best she could do under the circumstances. Prepared for a stare down from a possible girlfriend, she turned to face the scene unfolding behind her. Joi’s brave face faltered at her first look at the woman -- person -- standing just inside the doorway. Dara, as it turned out, was the ghastliest-looking drag queen she’d ever seen. She couldn’t help but think that no self-respecting queen would dare to walk around with such a ghastly unibrow, or be remiss in catching the obvious growth of hair just above his upper lip. How she hadn’t noticed the she-male in the Xena Warrior costume was beyond her, but that was a topic of less importance. There were too many other pressing issues, one of which being the newfound knowledge that Ari obviously swung both ways and the ever-pressing desire to be as far away from him as possible. “Well, what have we here? I should be upset that you couldn’t wait for me, but under the circumstances, I’ll let this one slide.”

The Buccaneer

47

“Leave now, Dara.” Each word was punctuated with warning. “How about I just go,” Joi volunteered, taking wide steps around him. “Stay.” It was a command that she almost heeded; one that he no doubt expected her to submit to since he didn’t bother to move to stop her. The urge to tell him to kiss her ass was ever present, but pride stopped her from voicing the words that would demonstrate her anger at being so gullible. “If the woman wants to leave, by all means let her go.” Dara stepped to one side leaving the door wide open. Joi didn’t need to be asked twice, although she half-expected Ari to stop her. For a weak-minded moment, she secretly wanted him to. “Joi.” He still remained rooted to his spot. From her post next to the door, Dara gave her a lopsided grin. For a brief moment, Joi thought she saw the flash of a rather dangerous-looking incisor. The walls felt as if they were closing in on her fast. She needed out. Now. Although she moved quickly, her legs felt heavy guiding her across the room. Passing him, she could feel the tension radiating from Ari’s body. Still, he remained eerily immobile.

It was all for the best, she thought, moving to the door without a backward glance.

48

Nia K. Foxx

Chapter Five

Watching Joi walk out of his cabin was the hardest thing he’d ever endured. He wanted to stop her, force her back inside and rid himself of the smug she-male standing before him. He would have done that and perhaps more if he had any control of his paralyzed limbs. He didn’t. The quick-acting wolf in front of him saw to that almost as soon as she came through the door. It had all happened so fast. She opened the door with a key she shouldn’t have had access to. He strode angrily in the other Alpha’s direction, only to be stopped short as she blew at him a substance he soon realized was paralyzing dust. The illusive, quickdissolving substance had an immediate effect on its victims, rendering them temporarily paralyzed. The drug had been banned by shifters for generations and the alchemists responsible for its creation were long gone, their books allegedly destroyed to prevent formulas from falling into the wrong hands. Apparently, not all of the knowledge had been destroyed with the books. It didn’t surprise him that a member of the Slovich Pack retained the knowledge for its creation; after all, it was one of their own chemists who’d helped develop the concoction, and the Slovich Pack wasn’t known for being a trustworthy lot.

The Buccaneer

49

“Alone at last.” The she-male’s eyes raked over his body. “And it looks like I got here just in time. I’d have hated to miss out on the considerable prowess you Yngvars are noted for.” Even the paralyzing agent wasn’t enough to prevent his cock from deflating in disgust at her words. It was obvious from Dara’s immediate frown that she noticed his body’s reaction as well. “You risk much for something that will never happen,” he said tightly. Speech was the only thing he’d managed control of and that was taking considerable effort on his part. “Oh, I don’t know. You might have a change of heart soon.” “Nothing would make that a possibility. Release me from this hold and I will consider your pack making amends to me in a manner that will not call for your life.” Ari saw concern flash before her eyes before she shifted her gaze to something behind him. “You didn’t finish your dinner.” “That should be the least of your concerns. Release the hold.” Although his voice remained calm, it was hard to keep the bite out of it. “But you were supposed to eat --” Her mouth clamped shut, effectively cutting off her next words. Ari’s anger was pushed beyond its limits. Her actions could potentially end a longstanding truce between their packs and she wanted to talk about something as insignificant as his dinner. “My retaliation against your treachery will go a lot easier for you if you reverse the effects now.” Instead of responding to his request, the damned man-woman stood there, gaping at him with a dumb look on her face. Surely, she had to know her actions would warrant his anger. He’d never in their limited interactions given her the impression that he would

50

Nia K. Foxx

welcome any intimate interaction between them. For her to think she could barge into his room and expect a warm welcome was reasoning he couldn’t follow. “I-it will wear off in a few minutes.” “And you have nothing to reverse it sooner?” Dara shook her head, with the same the worried look. “Look, just so you know, I really didn’t mean anything by this. I just thought a fun time could be had by all…you know.” He clenched his jaw tight while the predator in him grew restless from his helpless circumstances. His skin tingled and stretched. His silence, and no doubt the presence of the predator eager for his chance to surface, had Dara rushing forward. “I can see I guessed wrong here and hope there won’t be any hard feelings. I’ll just leave you alone now. Oh, and you might want to toss out that tray of food the first chance you get…um…to prevent any further misunderstandings.” He would have ignored the remainder of her nervous chatter, but her words struck a chord with him. It was the second time she’d made reference to his dinner and he wanted to know what her obsession was with his meal. “Why should I throw it out?” At first, she looked as if she’d turn tail and run, but like any good Alpha, she stood her ground. Her head was raised slightly higher than before, but she still remained silent. “The chef was given a special spice to add to our dinner.” Her mouth had moved, words even flowed from her lips, but Ari wasn’t sure if he heard correctly. He couldn’t have. Special spice ? Then understanding dawned on him. “You had my food drugged!” She snorted. “When you say it like that you make it sound like such a bad thing. I only had him add an aphrodisiac, nothing harmful.” Rage infused his system, acting as the perfect counteragent for the paralysis. He could feel sensation already in his fingers again. It was like a thousand sharp pin pricks stabbing

The Buccaneer

51

through his hand, but he ignored the uncomfortable feeling in lieu of the revelation unfolding. “We could chalk that one up to no harm, no foul. It’s not like you ate anything; if you had, we’d have several hours of pleasure ahead of us.” The wolf growled and Dara took a cautionary step backward. He may not have eaten anything, but Joi had. Granted she’d only taken a small amount of food, but it was enough to affect her. He thought back to Joi’s eager response to his touch. His heart ached with the possibility that her reaction had only been due to the drugs flowing through her system. However, another thought struck him with even more fierceness than the previous one. Joi was somewhere on the ship and could still be suffering the effects of the drug. The wolf howled. His fingers flexed. “If I were you, I’d leave right now.” The other Alpha had the sense to heed his warning. It was a good thing, because the tingling had now moved to his legs and feet.

***** It wasn’t exactly the haven she’d have elected, if given a choice, but she was pressed for a place to get her bearings and she was grateful the bathroom on the main deck was open and vacant. Selfishly, she locked the door behind her and propped herself up against it for several moments, all the while hoping that no one would be in dire need of the facilities. She mentally recapped the situation she’d just fled and groaned at her own weakness. If she’d only delivered the tray and gone, she could have saved herself from the embarrassment engulfing her. She pushed herself away from the door, going to stand in front of the bank of mirrors to assess her appearance. It wasn’t good. She groaned at the woman reflected in the image. The proper chignon that was once secured at the top of her head was now askew in a lopsided fashion reminiscent of the Leaning Tower of Pisa, her lips were devoid of the slight

52

Nia K. Foxx

color she’d applied and looked a bit puffy. Absently, she touched two fingers to her tender mouth. The worst of it came in the form of her top, which she’d laced hastily to cover her breasts. Joi’s haphazard looping left little to the imagination, making her grateful she hadn’t encountered anyone in her hasty retreat. “Okay, you can do this girl.” She breathed deeply and went about the task of straightening her appearance. A comb and brush would have been nice to help with her thick hair, but she managed a decent replica of her former style. A little tucking and tugging had her breasts straining against her corset for freedom once again. “Just two nights and you’ll be home,” she said to her image. Still, that would be two nights of avoiding further interaction with Ari. “You can do it, if you just act as if nothing ever happened.” Her words provided little comfort. If she had it her way, she’d never lay eyes on the ship’s captain ever again, but the probability of that happening was slim to none. She was resolved, however, to avoid serving him and, more particularly, not to bring any more meals to his suite. The list of servers willing to handle the chore would be long. Firming her resolve, Joi pushed aside the dull pang of hurt and tried to look forward to an uneventful remainder of her evening.

***** Maybe returning to the ballroom wasn’t the best way to keep her oath for an incidentfree night. The thought slammed into her as she made her way through the closed double doors of the ballroom. The sensual strumming of music was the first thing to assault her senses in the dimly lit interior. The next was the steamy heat generated by a concentration of bodies in an enclosed place. The muskiness that filled the air was aromatic in a purely carnal way. Try as she might, Joi couldn’t stop her gaze from drifting to the crowded dance floor where bodies were meshed in various displays of sexual gyration. Dirty dancing had nothing on what was going on in front of her.

The Buccaneer

53

Anywhere else and the couples, threesomes, and foursomes would have been arrested for their X-rated exhibitions. She paused as her vision isolated one couple on the periphery of the crowd. From her distance, the slightly built woman looked to be dressed in an overly sexy, futuristic costume that reminded her of Princess Amidala from Star Wars. Her legs were anchored securely on either side of a man who resembled a buffed-out Indiana Jones. Her head was thrown back and an expression of pure ecstasy lit her features as her companion pumped her up and down in front of him. The woman’s long black hair swung in cadence to their erotic movements. The hands on her waist lifted her high exposing an impressively long cock. Joi gasped, her nipples hardening in acute arousal at the sordid scene. She’d never considered herself a voyeur before, but the sight of two people having sex so openly and with so much abandon wasn’t something she could turn away from. The woman raised her head only to look down at her partner with such a wanton forcefulness that Joi felt her cunt clench in response. In the next moment, the costumed woman was being impaled by his lengthy sheath and rode her lover’s thrusting cock. “There you are.” Eva’s sudden appearance made her jump, partly because she hadn’t noticed her friend’s approach and partly because she’d been caught watching the couple go at it. “Where have you been?” Even with Eva standing there, she found it difficult to stop gawking. “I needed a bit of fresh air.” “Yeah, I hear you. Things have slowed down considerably for us now, but we all knew what would happen once the festivities began.” Good, she hoped like hell they could turn in for the rest of the evening because as much as she hated to admit it, she still felt the aftereffects of Ari’s touch and the scene she’d just witnessed was only a reminder of her own unfulfilled desire. The orgasm Ari had given her was better than anything she’d ever experienced but part of her still longed to have him thrusting inside her, much the same way she’d seen the couple on the dance floor doing. She

54

Nia K. Foxx

shot a sideways glance in their direction to see the two going at it so vigorously without a care for all those who surrounded them. “Does that mean we can call it a night?” she asked expectantly. “We’re reconvening in the kitchen to take stock. I’m sure a couple of people will stay on, but…um…it shouldn’t be…” With her fading words, Eva seemed to be having a hard time looking at her. Instead, her gaze jumped to something just behind her. Interest piqued, Joi raised her brows curiously at her friend’s stuttered reply. “What?” “I could be wrong, but I think someone’s looking for you.” The words were barely out of Eva’s mouth before Joi felt the fine hairs on the back of her neck stand on end. A steely hand came down on her shoulder. There was no mistaking who the firm grip belonged to. The quickening of her pulse attested to its ownership even before she faced Ari. “Well, I guess I’ll catch you later. Happy Halloween!” Eva’s last words faded away while she beat a hasty retreat.

Traitor. Joi sent out the mental accusation but understood why her friend would abandon her after seeing the grim look reflected on Ari’s stony visage. His hold moved to her upper arm. “Let’s go.” “Whoa, buddy. I’m not going anywhere with you. Why don’t you go find your…whatever the hell that was and order she/he around?” Her protest was weakened by her body’s mutinous response to having him so near again. To her chagrin, her mind recalled with detailed clarity the way he’d kissed and touched her just a short time ago. She tried to shake off the vivid memories but found it an undertaking beyond her current mental capacity. One would think with all of the obvious erotic antics going on around that their exchange would draw the least amount of attention. Quite the contrary. She was uncomfortably aware of several eyes on them. Even the wait staff, now being ushered into the kitchen by one of the minotaur security members, stared curiously in their direction. Joi

The Buccaneer

55

did her best to make eye contact with the security guard. She hoped the man would come to her rescue but was sorely disappointed as he took up post at the door, purposefully ignoring the pair.

So much for the promised protection. She guessed the help fell short when the harasser was one of the actual owners. Regardless, Joi wasn’t going to just stand there and be manhandled by Ari Yngvar. She didn’t care whose ship she was on. She made no qualms about trying to free her captured arm. Unfortunately, her numerous attempts at release were a fruitless effort. What she did succeed in gaining was a rather stormy glare from Ari, followed by the distinct sound of growling coming from the dangerous-looking male. It was a frightening rumble, which made her abandon all efforts for freedom. He’d made animalistic growls before, and she had to admit a curiosity about those primitively alluring noises. But this…this was very different, full of a wild warning she couldn’t ignore. The fear and lust infusing her system increased tenfold as ice blue eyes took on a bestial quality. She wanted to scream but panic clogged her throat even as heat pulsed through her core. Her body was a contradiction in and of itself. Anxiously, her gaze searched the throng of partygoers, many of whom watched them with an avid inquisitiveness, but none broke the formation of swirling bodies to come to her aid. There would be no help from them. She was on her own and her failing bravery wasn’t enough to muster further resistance. Her attention shifted to where his hand held her firmly. Helplessness washed over her until she could do nothing but succumb to the inevitability that she was at his mercy. “Joi.” Her name on his lips sounded so much like it had when she stormed out of his cabin not so long ago. One word, yet it was so full of warning. She made the mistake of looking up at him and gasped at the feral glow she saw. “Your eyes,” she croaked. Ari’s jaw tightened, his eyelids lowered in a concentrated effort and remained that way for several seconds. Joi wasn’t sure what she would see when he opened them again but felt a

56

Nia K. Foxx

modicum of relief to note they had returned to their natural coloring when next he looked at her. “Come with me.” It almost sounded like a request, but she wasn’t foolish enough to believe that he would permit her to do anything but comply with his wishes. “Unless you really want me to fuck you right here for everyone to see.” Her cheeks warmed at the idea, but her pussy still contracted at the visual of them joining the others in their very open displays of sexual gratification. “I would never --” “Save the denial. You’re so turned on right now I could take you in this room and you would let me. The question is, do you want it here or in my cabin?” She was speechless. Could he really tell how excited she was? No, that was impossible. His grip tightened and she thought he might pull her into his arms right there as he’d promised. “Here it is.” Her eyes rounded at his statement and she shook her head vigorously. “Then you will come back to my cabin.” It was only after she nodded her assent that Ari surrendered her arm and stepped aside to allow her to precede him out the door leading to the corridor. She hesitated but moved forward on automatic pilot back toward the very place she’d vowed to never go again. No sooner were they at the door than he moved in close to punch a code into the pad, an alternate method for opening the modern lock. She practically rushed inside just to add some space between them. Joi wasn’t sure what she expected coming back into the room, but it looked much the same way it had when his visitor intruded -- minus the tray of food. She turned to fix him with what she hoped was a show of confident defiance. She tried hard not to look at his bare chest, not to remember the way her fingers itched to feel the hard contours of his muscles beneath her tips. It was a battle she lost quickly.

The Buccaneer

57

“I’m here, so now what?” Her heart stuttered in her chest and the inexplicable arousal she felt in the ballroom was swelling with a renewed gusto that worried her. Her breathing quickly fell in line with the gentle rise and fall of his chest. There was something terrifyingly seductive about the connection between them. She tried to make sense of it all; the eerie glow she’d seen reflected in his eyes, the alluring pull he had on her senses -- her body. Hot tension crackled between them. “Remove your clothes.”

58

Nia K. Foxx

Chapter Six

The wolf in him grew still, watching purposefully for any sign of flight. For both their sakes, he hoped she would comply, but he saw the hesitation in her eyes and the slightly rebellious lift of her head. He also smelled the stimulating scent of her arousal and wondered how much was influenced by the drug. She had only had a small amount of the laced food, but even her slight consumption was enough to cast a cloud of doubt over how much of her desire was for him and how much was induced. Of its own accord, his body reacted to her heat. His thick cock bloomed to a full-fledged throbbing erection. “Why would I do something like that?” There was a slight waver in her voice. “Because you want to feel your body shudder beneath mine again, only this time with me buried inside you.” Even her dark complexion couldn’t hide the heated flush that consumed her face. “You’re wrong…I’m not interested in you…” Her words trailed off as he stripped easily out of the linen pants and boots he’d worn. He welcomed her slow roving gaze, enjoying the instant lust he saw reflected in their brown depths. His cock jerked as he inhaled her intoxicating heat. There was no doubt she wanted him. “How long do you think you’ll stand there and prolong the inevitable?”

The Buccaneer

59

Long strides ate up the distance she’d put between them. When she would have retreated, his arm shot out to latch around her waist and keep her in place.

Mine. The mental affirmation reverberated through him. He needed to proceed with caution. Instinctively, he was very aware of the fear that simmered just beneath the surface of her lust and wanted to squelch the emotion, but he was working on a shoestring reserve of patience. His unfulfilled desire, Dara’s abrupt appearance and treachery, not to mention his search for Joi, all stole from his capacity for tolerance until he had very little to spare. Her eyes closed suddenly and he got the distinct impression that she was trying to wish him away. “This doesn’t make sense, I barely know you.” She mumbled what was probably meant to be just an inner thought aloud. He said her name softly and she peeked through one eyelid at him before sighing heavily and opening both eyes. “We have the rest of our lives to get to know each other, my dear. Right now I suspect there are more pressing needs on your mind, needs that require you to be completely naked.” “You’re wrong.” “Part of me wishes that were true. I can smell your heat and I know that sweet pussy of yours is dying to have me slipping between her folds.” She gave a surprised gasp, but it didn’t stop him from continuing his necessary explanation. He wanted to tell her as much as possible before he answered his wolf’s demand to take her where they stood. “I also know that my dinner was laced with some sort of aphrodisiac, which may be contributing to your current aroused state.” For the briefest moment, her expression went blank, but quickly on its heels was a look of angry accusation. “You drugged me and now think you’re going to reap some sort of big payoff. Of all the loathsome --”

60

Nia K. Foxx

He kept his tone soft and low. “I didn’t do it. It would seem our surprise guest from earlier managed to convince the chef to add an ingredient to my meal. I was the intended target, not you.” Relief washed over her face and Ari gritted his teeth, not sure if he should read the expression as her relief in knowing that her reaction was solely her own or if it was in the knowledge that he hadn’t intentionally drugged her when he insisted she eat. He wanted to believe it was the latter. “So, your girlfriend thought you’d need a little extra boost in that department?” “Let’s put the issue of Dara to rest here and now. She is barely an associate of my family. As for your question, I think the answer to that is obvious.” He pulled her to him, tightly fitting their bodies closely together. His height had his swollen member pressing into her belly instead of nestled between her thighs where he wanted it to be. “You’re crass.” “And I’m certain you hate the fact that you’re so turned on by me even if it’s drug induced. Now back to your current state of dress.” “If you think I’m going to strip for you, then you have another think coming.” She wanted to play hardball, so be it. With a speed common for his kind, he turned her in his embrace, pulling her tight when she would have struggled for her freedom. He could almost feel the rush of adrenaline coursing through her veins. His cock jerked as her generous bosom heaved against her top. Each breath she took wreaked havoc on his nerves, making it increasingly impossible to think straight. “Why don’t I just help you out of these confining clothes?” To his surprise and delight, she didn’t make a sound as he pulled the knot free of her shirt. He didn’t hesitate to tackle the tighter binding of the corset beneath, causing her breasts to spill free into his hand. She whimpered as he fondled one bountiful sphere. Her

The Buccaneer

61

breathing hitched as he zeroed in on the hard nugget that was her nipple. They were long and taut, just the way he liked. Of course, he was certain he’d be hard-pressed to find anything about her he didn’t like. Ari used his forefinger and thumb to roll and pluck the nub until she arched into his hand. “You like that, hon?” She made a sound akin to a purring noise. He wasn’t big on cats but enjoyed the noise coming from her. He switched his attention to the other nipple and was gifted with more feline sounds of contentment. Yes, she might definitely turn him into a cat person really quickly. “Get rid of the rest of this,” he whispered in her ear. For a moment he thought she wouldn’t comply, but to his complete delight she finished what he began and pulled the strings free of their loops. In between erotic sighs, she shrugged out of the blouse and corset. He bent to press a kiss into the side of her neck, and then her shoulder. The need to restrain her was long past and it gave him free reign to wage a full frontal attack on her luscious tits. “The skirt,” he whispered into her ear. No sooner were his words out than fingers were fumbling clumsily at her waist. It wasn’t long before the skirt sagged around her. She pushed the cumbersome garment over her hips and he helped her efforts by lifting her into the cradle of his arms and dragging the heavy material the remainder of the way down her legs. She made a squeaking noise but offered up no protest at being held. He carried her the short distance to the high-standing bed that would eclipse an average-sized room. He laid her down on the center of its surface like she was a fragile piece of fine china. In truth, she was the most precious thing in his life. He stared down at her exquisitely naked position and wanted nothing more than to ravage her. She let out a nervous giggle. “Are you going to stand there and stare? I’m all worked up and naked. What more could a man want?”

62

Nia K. Foxx

Just one thing -- to know for certain that she was responding to him and not the damned drug. “Come on, big boy.” She wet a finger in her mouth and trailed it across her lips, down her chin, passed her beautifully long neck. He watched with rock-hard lust as the slow path she made paused at one breast where she plumped and tugged at the nipple. If she’d stopped there, he might have been able to muster a little more self-restraint. Unfortunately, his poor control stood absolutely no chance when her fingers traveled their way down the flat softness of her belly to the closely cropped hair at the apex of her thighs. She spread her legs wide and he found himself having to lean against the bed for support. Her fingers traced the puffy length of her labia folds. Precum fountained from the tip of his penis when she dipped a finger between her feminine lips and began a slow steady massage that had her thrusting her hips against her own manipulations. The look of unadulterated abandon on her face was his undoing.

***** This was so unlike her, lying so exposed in front of a man she didn’t even know. She chalked this newfound decadence up to the effects of the aphrodisiac. That was the only possible explanation for her sudden capitulation. After all, she wasn’t the sort to fall into bed with a man, no matter how sexy, after knowing him for such a short time. She could see why the Dara chick would go to such lengths to guarantee Ari’s sexual attention. He was, after all, a prime specimen of man. His body was muscled and ripped in all the right places, and he had a dick on him that made her mouth water. It had been a long while since she had the privilege of using such a long thick cock. Scratch that, she was sure she hadn’t experienced anything with both his girth and length simultaneously. There was a first time for everything and she was looking forward to this first time. Why look a gift horse in the mouth? Joi didn’t try to hide her satisfied smile when he climbed into bed after her. Instead, she spread her legs further and rubbed her hard little clit faster.

The Buccaneer

63

Ari grabbed the shaft of his cock and pumped it slowly, causing a thick stream of come to slide over from the tip. He caught the white cream in his fingers and used it to glisten his cock. Watching him masturbate in front of her added another level of excitement to her own play. Feeling more brazen than she ever had in her life, Joi acted on impulse, pulling herself into a sitting position in front of his kneeling frame. Without thought, she brushed his hand aside and took a firm hold of the base of his cock. “Fuck wo…man,” he moaned. “Not yet,” she smiled up at him only seconds before she engulfed the tip of his cock with her mouth. She sucked him slowly into her mouth, enjoying the salty taste of him. She pumped him with enthusiasm while taking every possible inch. She suctioned her lips around his girth, taking pleasure in his low growls and demanding thrusts as he fucked her mouth with increasing vigor. His fingers sank into her hair when she pulled her mouth away suddenly. For a second, she thought he’d force her to take him in her mouth once again; instead he tilted her head back further and searched her face with a questioning look. “Don’t worry, I haven’t changed my mind. I was just thinking of another way I wanted to make you continue with those sexy animal noises.” When he continued to stare down at her with a half scowl, she followed up with, “Just lay back and enjoy the ride.” He didn’t move, and her first thought was maybe he hadn’t heard her, but then the fingers in her hair relinquished their hold and he moved down to the bed, slowly resting himself on his elbows while he regarded her. He was watchful, reminding her of a predator on high alert. “Do you have condoms?” His eyes narrowed.

Nia K. Foxx

64

“Save that look for someone else. Are you familiar with the expression ‘no glove, no love’?” Apparently, he was. She was glad to see him reach for a covered basket sitting on a makeshift night table. He extracted a foil wrapper and ripped it easily open with his teeth. It was an action that looked particularly erotic. Nervous fingers accepted the rubber contents and she wasn’t as graceful as she could have been sliding the latex over his rigid sex. But he didn’t mind. Ari groaned aloud from the feel of her slow-moving fingers. For good measure she added a few extra pumps before straddling his waist. She was poised to sink him deeply inside her, but Ari’s hands on her waist halted her movements and it was her turn to shoot him a questioning look. He responded in a way that went beyond the bounds of mere words. His tongue struck out to and flicked one nipple before latching on to suck her into his mouth. It was bliss. Her head fell back and she twined her fingers into his hair. The man definitely had a mouth that could make a woman melt. The hands on her waist found a new home on her breasts. He pushed the heavy mounds together to give himself the ability to draw both tight nipples into his heated mouth. “Shit, yes,” she cried arching into him. His tongue swirled. Flicked. Sucked until her body was like gelatin and she could barely manage the position above. He sucked her deeply into his mouth one last time before letting her nuggets pop out of his mouth with a resounding pop. A hand at the nape of her neck pulled her face toward his, allowing him to claim her mouth in a kiss that went beyond demanding to branding. She whimpered into his mouth, wanting more than ever to have his cock gliding into her. What she got was the next best thing. She felt the probe of his thick fingers stroke her feminine lips, spreading her flesh to give him uninhibited access to her sensitive clit. He toyed with the damp button much the same way his tongue teased her nipples. Stroke. Flick. Stroke. She felt herself gushing with excited heat. His fingers reached for her slit and plunged into sopping wetness. She cried out, giving his pillaging tongue more access to her mouth. When he engaged a second finger in

The Buccaneer

65

plundering, she responded in the only way possible. Her pussy tightened around the two digits and she rode his thick fingers as if her life depended on it. Ari’s skills went beyond words, or even thought, so instead of trying to do either, she just allowed herself to feel. When the first bloom of an orgasm surfaced, she would have ridden the wave into delirious oblivion, but Ari had other plans. “Ari,” she protested when his fingers were plucked from her body and his mouth ceased its brand of ownership. He gave her a lopsided grin. “Now, my dear, you’re ready to fuck me.” There was no waiting. He guided his cock to her wet cunt and pulled her down over his body while thrusting upward in one swift movement that seated him to the hilt inside her. Her balance of power was lost as he guided her up and down his turgid length. Already so close to her own orgasm, she went along for the ride by bracing her arms on his shoulders. Up and down she rode him, her breasts bouncing heavily at the wild ride that pumped him in and out of her excited core. “Ari,” she cried out, her stomach tightening in prelude to what was to come. His cock swelled even larger inside her, stretching her sensitive walls further. “That’s it, Joi, let go.” Let go she did, finding her own groove and taking hold with her own aggressive movements until the room was riddled with the sound of their gasps and moans. The sound of skin upon skin mingled with their verbal excitement. The tension in her mounted, pulling and stretching her from all angles. She expected an orgasm, but what slammed into her was more like a Category Four hurricane as it wrenched through her. Her body spasmed, her cunt creamed around his cock, and then milked his thrusting appendage, greedily urging him to join her in the throes of euphoria. “Fuck, fuck,” she screamed as she continued to ride him.

*****

66

Nia K. Foxx

Her pussy gripped him better than anything else he’d ever experienced in his life and he knew it wouldn’t be much longer before he joined her in orgasm. Heaven help him, he wanted to hold out a little while longer to prolong being buried in her tight sheath, even if it only meant seconds more. He tried to redirect his focus but nothing would take him out of the moment, the feel of her flesh on his, surrounding him, fucking him with such and open abandon. His balls tightened, heralding the inevitable. He felt the orgasm coil through him; the blood rushed from his head. It was as if every part of his being were rushing through his body to his cock lodged so deeply in her tight cunt. Her pussy flexed and throbbed, preventing him from holding out any longer. His gums tingled while his incisors lengthened of their own accord in preparation for an instinctual fulfillment. “Mine,” he ground out, but his predator demanded more. It wouldn’t be at peace until he solidified his claim and marked her as his own. Oh, how he wanted to give in to the desire. He stifled the instinct promising himself it would be for just a little while longer. With one final thrust, he buried himself balls deep inside of her, shooting his seed while moaning her name in happiness and completion. The moment would have been cemented in perfection if he had been able to mark her the way his body demanded. His cock jerked inside her one, two, three times as he emptied himself completely.

The Buccaneer

67

Chapter Seven

Joi came to a slow wakefulness and was immediately aware of the muscled arm lying heavily across her waist. It was like an anchor keeping her immobile. There was no doubt in her mind whom the arm belonged to since she’d become all too familiar with every inch of Ari’s anatomy from his hard chest and abs, to the well-honed muscles of his arms, his kissme-all-night mouth, and the pièce de résistance, his thick, long cock that made a woman want to claim exclusive ownership rights. His unimaginable stamina kept him inside her for the better part of the night until she collapsed in tired surrender. Mercifully, he’d let her sleep a couple hours before tempting her awake with tender kisses. Heat gathered between her thighs at the sexual feats they explored in the passing of one night. She couldn’t think about that now, silently reminding herself while trying to push the images of their entwined bodies from her head. From the light pouring into the open window and her oh-so-empty stomach, she guessed that it was way past breakfast time and she wanted to see how much of the day she could salvage. While the idea of lying in bed with Ari all day was appealing, it certainly wasn’t going to pay the bills. She admonished herself for the lack of urgency she felt. Maybe it was a by-product of the sexual enhancement he said had been slipped into the food. At any rate, she needed to go. The distance would probably do them both some good. Listening to Ari’s shallow breathing, Joi found herself

68

Nia K. Foxx

wondering if he were a light sleeper. She got her answer when she tried to slowly roll herself away, only to be drawn snugly against his heated flesh. His shaft pressed firmly into the crevice of her butt cheeks and she could feel it springing to life against her. “Where do you think you’re going?” Ari asked, sleepily. “This isn’t a luxury cruise for some of us.” She tried to sound irritated but couldn’t. He nuzzled her neck and made a sensual growling sound that had her wanting push him on his back and ride them both into oblivion. “My needs are the only ones you need to cater to on this trip, and right now I need to be inside of you.” His statement should have irritated the crap out of her, but it didn’t. The idea of succumbing to his needs again was very appealing and disturbing. She hadn’t taken the job to be distracted by a man and she was fast losing her reason for being there. She needed to regain perspective and some serious space might help her in that regard. “Seeing as how I wasn’t booked on this ship to be your personal paramour, I must beg to differ with you. But maybe we could touch base after my shift ends tonight.” She was proud of the indifference in her voice. “Touch base.” The last word was said with a snarl that barely had a chance to register in her mind, because no sooner were the words out that Joi was being flipped onto her back with Ari seated firmly between her thighs. Reflexively, her hand went up to push against his chest. He didn’t move, but she knew that was due more to his own inclination than to any physical effort on her part. “Let’s just make this abundantly clear from now going forward. When I said you were mine I meant every word of it, and I’m not just talking about for this cruise. We were meant to be together, Joi, and I plan to make sure that we honor the wisdom of the universe.”

The Buccaneer

69

He was talking crazy. Maybe that she-male managed to slip him something that he was unaware of. “That’s ridiculous. This isn’t the Stone Age. Men don’t just claim women and women most definitely don’t respond to Neanderthal tactics.” “What others do and don’t do has no bearing on us. From the moment I first saw you, I knew this was where we’d end up and that it would only be the beginning for us.” “You can’t be serious. Hell, you said it yourself; I was drugged yesterday. I wouldn’t have responded that way if I weren’t.” “You would tell that lie right now when I need only look between your legs to see the evidence of your arousal.” She pushed him then, one hard shove that did little more than press her hands firmly into his chest. The glint in his eyes had her snatching them away as if she’d been burned. She gasped when strong fingers gripped her thighs and pulled her the miniscule inches it would take to have his cock pressing against the precipice of her cunt. “Ari,” she gasped. She wanted to deny the truth of his words but couldn’t. God help her, but she wanted him buried deep inside of her, driving them both to another of those mind-shattering orgasms that had wrenched her body last night. As for his other declaration, she recognized a certain validity in his words that could warrant further exploration even after the cruise. But it could hardly mean she was willing to commit herself wholly to him. “That’s not enough, Joi. If you don’t believe we are meant to be, then say the words to stop me from taking what I know to be mine.” She couldn’t say the words and he knew it. The arrogance reflected in his eyes attested to his keen awareness. Neither spoke as he sank himself deeply into her welcoming cunt. He felt just as amazingly thick inside her now as he had the night before. “You are mine, Joi, now and forever.”

70

Nia K. Foxx

His statement had a sensual effect and she raised her hips to receive him in acceptance. It was all the encouragement he seemed to need. He leaned over her body, planting his forearms on either side of her body. The position gave him just the perfect angle for deep penetrating thrusts, each plunge allowing him to tease and tickle her sensitive clit. His head hovered above her own before he captured her mouth in a kiss that was just as demanding as his plunging cock. She gripped his shoulders and bucked beneath him in an effort to drive him as insane as he was certainly making her. Her cunt gripped his cock tightly with each withdrawal and she could feel the tension in his body through the tight bunching of his shoulders. He drew his head back to look at her. The wild look she saw in his ice blue depths reminded her of how he’d looked in the ballroom. She moaned because there would be no dismissing what was so obviously in front of her. Her rhythm slipped, but it was no matter because Ari kept his vigorous pace, pushing her closer and closer to a point of no return. “Don’t be afraid. We are meant to be mates for life. A rare union that so many miss out on but not us.” “Your eyes…” she moaned, as he hit just the right spot repeatedly until she thought she’d come right there. As if sensing her orgasm, he slowed his movements and once again she found her ability to speak. “…they’re like…” Her mind struggled for the right word. Dog. No, that wasn’t quite right. “A wolf,” he supplied just as the word popped into her head. “That is what I am. A wolf. Your wolf.” He wasn’t making sense. “That’s not possible.” “It is.” Inside her, his cock swelled unbelievably larger, stretching her beyond anything she’d ever experienced. Ari groaned a long, drawn-out sound that was a combination of anguish and pleasure. “You feel so good.”

The Buccaneer

71

Joi’s eyes widened at his added girth. “Oh my…oh my,” she crooned, unable to form any other words. Their unfinished conversation was thrust from her mind. It was far too hard to concentrate on a coherent sentence, let alone think straight when your lover’s cock was growing by leaps and bounds inside you. He stilled his movements and she could see the struggle on his face to remain that way. His brow creased with the concentrated effort. Wanting nothing more than to put them both out of their misery, she contracted her vaginal muscles around his thick member. “God…woman,” he grunted. It was like music to her ears. He plunged deep. “We’re going to fuck and then I will bind us together forever before I fuck you some more.” Her stomach flopped at his words. And, true to his word, he fucked her with tunneling thrusts that left her gasping for breath. When she thought it couldn’t get any better, he leaned over her, his tongue trailing a path across the hollow of her neck. The combined effect started a burning inside of her. She turned her face away, giving him more access to her neck, sensing somehow that it was what he wanted. Needed. Ari growled a low possessive sound before she felt the scrape of his teeth against her neck. He pumped into her harder and faster, and then his teeth sank deeply into her flesh. Pain radiated from the wound he was inflicting only to be counteracted by the pleasure of his cock pushing her closer to something she’d never experienced. The mother of all orgasms. His hold on her neck didn’t ease and he pushed her harder until Joi felt her entire being shatter and dissolve. She came hard, her orgasm taking hold of her entire body. Her womb contracted and throbbed in tandem with her convulsing core. Ari’s body answered in kind. He released her tender neck and threw his own head back as his orgasm ripped though his body. Her name wrenched from his lips in a long howl that filled the room. His seed flowed freely into her, filling her hungry womb as spasm after spasm he came into her.

72

Nia K. Foxx

***** Joi lay quietly in the folds of his arms realizing after her third attempt at distance that Ari wasn’t willing to surrender his hold on her. “We can’t stay in bed all day.” Even as she said the words, she had to admit the idea held some serious merit. Ari grunted, pulling her closer into the spoon of his embrace. She tried another angle. “You know we have to eat at some point.” Joi almost expected to hear another sound of disapproval but soon realized she must have struck a chord with him because Ari propped himself one elbow behind her. “I think we should talk first.” “Is that the only way I’m going to get any nourishment?” She felt him freeing the remaining bobby pins riddling her hair. “’Fraid so.” “Okay, but just to get all the hard stuff out of the way, I don’t have any particular religious or political party affiliations. I have a younger brother who I barely talk to and both my parents died over five years ago. I don’t drink, smoke, or do drugs and simply won’t tolerate the latter two in my presence. Does that about cover it?” “Hardly, but I’m sure you know what I’m talking about.” He made room for her while rolling her to her back. “I can’t claim to be a mind reader, so until you come out and say it I’m in the dark here.” That wasn’t exactly true, she was 90 percent sure the conversation was about to shift to what he’d alluded to earlier and why he’d elected to use her neck as a chew toy. “I’m a wolf, Joi. A shifter actually.” She stared up at him in stunned silence. “No comment?” He studied her expression.

The Buccaneer

73

“What am I suppose to say to that? You identify with wolves. I guess it takes being a dog person to a whole other level.” She tried to joke. “That’s not what I mean and I think you know it by now. Like half of the people on this ship, I can shift into an animal persona. Mine just happens to be a wolf.” She waited for the “gotcha” moment, but when one came she peered quietly up at him, wondering why on God’s green earth she had to wind up in the bed of a lunatic. “And does your family know about this…um, ability?” “I expect your skepticism. Shifters aren’t exactly open about our existence, but to answer your question, my entire family, or pack, are shifters as well. I am the head of the family.” “You’re the…” her voice trailed off as she remembered the peculiar way his family members acted at yesterday’s luncheon. Frantically, her mind began to search for clues that would reveal the truth of his words. She remembered the canine-like teeth she saw on the couple having sex on the dance floor. The very real animation of the minotaur’s costumes, the way Ari’s eyes took on a wolf-like quality. “You’re the…” “Alpha of my pack and you are now my mate.” “Your…mate. But how can that be, I’m not…” Her fingers went to the tender spot on her neck. He nodded in response to her unasked question. Her mind was at war with itself. How could any of this be true? But if this were a dream, she hoped to God she’d wake up soon before she lost her mind. The dull ache at her neck was testimony of her wakeful state, but it still didn’t explain anything. She was a logical person and as such she needed concrete proof that her world was really being turned upside down. “Do it.” “What?” “It. You know. Change into a wolf. If you’re a shifter, let’s see you prove it.”

74

Nia K. Foxx

Ari’s brows furrowed. “I don’t know if you’re ready for that.” “Well, I think I’m the best judge of what I am or am not ready for.” “Joi.” “Ari.” He sighed heavily as he frowned down at her. “If I agree to this, will you promise to stop insisting on going back to work?” “Honey, if you can shift into a wolf I’ll agree to be that personal paramour you were looking for.” A slow smile broke across his face. “You got yourself a deal.” Several minutes later, Joi realized she’d definitely bitten off more than she could chew. She watched in astonished awe as Ari’s nude frame shifted from man to beast in the time it took her to breathe. His transformation was immediate, giving her no chance to register the nuances of his change. She stared unblinkingly from her perch on the bed down to the magnificent beast in front of her. “Ari.” The animal bowed its head in response. “My God.” She should be panicking at the least, running from the room, screaming at the top of her lungs at worst, but neither were the reactions that took hold. Instead, a peaceful calm settled over her. “You can change back now,” she said softly, and like that, Ari was back. “Are you okay?” he asked, coming immediately to her side. “I think so,” she said, a little numbly. “I just have one question.” He brushed his hand over her head in soft strokes. “What’s that?” “Will I be able to do that too?”

The Buccaneer

75

Ari let out a deep laugh. “No. Although the chances are pretty good our children will be able to.” “Whoa! You’re getting a little ahead of yourself, don’t you think? I mean, we haven’t even had a date yet.” “Fair enough. I promise to woo you until your heart’s content once we get back to the mainland.” “Until then, I’ll settle for some food.” “I’ll provide the food, but remember our agreement.” She flushed. She did. “In that case, I better go freshen up.” “Hmm, I’m good at back washing.” “I doubt I’d ever get to eat if you came in there with me.” He nodded at the truth of her statement. With only a slight peck to her lips, Ari allowed her to make her way into the bathroom alone. Joi took her time in the shower, going over every detail of the last twenty-four hours, still not completely sure if she’d wake up only to discover it all was a dream. She certainly hoped not because as strange as it all was, she really did want to get to know Ari better, both in bed and out. When she stepped out of the bathroom, she was greeted to the sight of a clutter-free suite. All their clothing had been cleared and the bed looked as if it sported fresh linens. The corners of her mouth tugged upward at the spread laid out on the table along with two burning candles. The dark curtains were drawn, plunging the room into a semi-darkened state. In the center of the room Ari stood, dressed in linen pants. He held out a white T-shirt, which she quickly exchanged for the towel wrapped around her body. “Was I really gone that long?”

Nia K. Foxx

76

“If not for the occasional humming, I would have checked to make sure you hadn’t drowned.” “I do not hum in the shower.” He pulled her to him. “Yes, my dear, you do, and you do so beautifully.” He dipped his head to kiss her, nearly making her forget about eating. She lingered in his arms after. “I’m still not sure if this is real.” “It is.” “What if I’m not ready for this? What if I’m still feeling the effects of the aphrodisiac?” “Funny you should mention that. I had a little discussion with the chef and security team while ordering our meal and was informed that although Dara had supplied the chef with a ‘special spice’ for my dinner, he promptly threw it away and reported the incident to security.” Joi’s eyes rounded. “You’re saying that I did all that stuff?” He nodded, a brilliant smile spreading across his face and his ice blue eyes beamed with pure happiness. “It was all you, baby.” His revelation threw her for a loop. Everything that transpired between them had been because she really wanted it. “I can’t believe it. I’ve never gotten so worked up before over a man.” “That’s because you hadn’t met your mate. Think you’re ready for us?” “No, but I’m willing to give it one helluva an effort.” Surprisingly, she meant it. “Why don’t we start with something simple like breakfast? After that, I’ll brush your hair for you.” “Hmm, that sounds innocent enough.”

The Buccaneer

77

Ari gave her a look that made her heart lurch. “Honey, nothing between us will ever be innocent.” He was right.

Nia K. Foxx Nia K. Foxx is the proud mother of three beautiful, very active children and two…narcissistic cats who spend their days battling over territory. She began an interest in writing romantic stories at the age of twelve, trying her hand at erotica in ’05. She's been enjoying it ever since. Nia loves to communicate with other readers of erotic romance and encourages anyone to email her at [email protected] or read free excerpts on her website at: http://www.niafoxx.com.