“Yes,” I breathed, ignoring the pang that made my throat close.

  “I suppose…” He paused, his gaze searching mine, “…you know how that feels now. Because of me.”

  The heaviness spread from him, permeating the kitchen. I reached forward and clasped his head in my hands, keeping him still as he closed his eyes.

  “I do know how it feels.” Leaning closer, I kissed his closed eyelids. “And I know how this feels.” My insides quivered as he lifted his head, his hooded eyes gazing into mine. The rhythm of my heart tripled, making me breathless.

  “We’re really in the shit, aren’t we?” Sitting up, Malone grabbed my arms and dragged me onto his lap, spreading my legs either side of his waist.

  I went willingly, wrapping my arms around his neck and looking down at him. “You’ve got to decide what type of alpha you want to be,” I whispered. “A hard bastard, like your father, never forgiving. Or a pushover, which, quite frankly, I wouldn’t be attracted to…”

  Raising his eyebrows, he squeezed my arse cheeks, hard.

  “Or…” My breath became heavy as he pressed his lips on the top of my breast, where it bulged from my crop top. “… a modern man, leading with a firm, but sensitive, hand. Connected to your emotions at the same time as standing proud and dominant.”

  “Sounds like a fantasy male written by a female writer in a romance novel.”

  “Exactly.” I stared into his eyes. “Are you brave enough to find out who you are?”

  Chuckling, he ran his tongue across the bottom of his top teeth. “And how do I do that, exactly?”

  Warmth radiated from me as I stroked his stubbly cheek. Usually, a man would challenge a woman’s idea of how a male should be, but not him. He had listened and even asked my advice. Shit, my feelings for the alpha may well have just tipped over the edge of the highest rollercoaster point, plummeting to the point of no return and ending up in the bedroom. Great, that didn’t bode well for my binding plan.

  “And the painting?” he asked, nodding his head at the square of canvas on the table.

  Looking at it, I sighed as I was brought back to my current dilemma… or one of them, anyway. “The pentagram is used to channel magic. It would take a powerful witch to be able to handle the magic of the standing stones, hence why no one has ever done it before. I can’t quite understand why Drake is involved or why his magic is imbued in the painting.”

  “Another mystery to solve.” His husky voice danced across my nerves. “Tomorrow.”

  “Tomorrow,” I muttered, reversing off his lap before he could distract me. “It’s the full moon ritual.”

  Almost tripping to the sink, I ran the tap, filling a glass with water before gulping it down. Looking out the window, I stayed facing away from Malone, staring at the red embers of the fire in the centre of the camp. I had been pretty blasé about the ceremony, too busy worrying about Bohdi. Now that my familiar was safe, fear gripped my muscles, making them shake.

  “W-we hardly know each other,” I stuttered. “I know this is the packs’ way of accepting me, but it’s a pretty gigantic fucking commitment. Plus, what do I do about Drake when he’s recovered?”

  There, I’d asked him the question that had plagued me since I’d started spending more time with the pack.

  A sigh ripped from Malone’s throat. “He can stay at my apartment until we’ve made peace with the witches. As for the ritual…” Rubbing a hand over his face, he blinked wearily. “… We’ll deal with that tomorrow, too.”

  The chair scraped as he stood and came to me, pushing his body into my back. Heat blasted every inch of my skin as the bulge in his jeans poked my spine. I appreciated his commitment to keeping my brother safe, but if he believed there’d be peace the whole time we were alive, he was sorely mistaken.

  Witches were ruthless when they deemed one of their own unfit to live. The Brighton Pack might be closer to allowing me to keep my life, but the witches wouldn’t stop until both Drake and I were dead.

  “You were very naughty, leaving me behind.” A growl rose up his throat as he bent his shaven head, moved my hair off my shoulder and nipped my ear.

  A zap of heat shot through me, instantly making me wet. Just his desire was enough to push all other thoughts out of my mind, despite the fact I had been on the verge of panic only two seconds before.

  “I’ve been waiting for my telling off. Are you going to punish me?”

  The chuckle that hummed in his chest surprised me. “Not now.”

  Resting my head to the side, I closed my eyes as his lips traced the top of my shoulder, ascending to the sensitive spot behind my ear. A low hum vibrated in my chest as his hands came around to my front, one spreading on my stomach and the other rising to cup my breast.

  A gorgeous zip of pleasure hit my core as he pinched my nipple between his thumb and forefinger, licking my ear at the same time. I melted against him, urging him to hold me up as I lost myself to his touch.

  “I owe you… this,” he whispered, digging his free hand down into my leggings and pressing me through my underwear.

  Gasping, I grasped his wrist as warmth exploded where he touched. I held him steady as he rubbed me, desperate for him to touch my skin.

  “Please,” I begged unashamedly. “I need it.”

  A gruff chuckle moved his chest against my back. I pressed my butt into him, grinding as he slipped two fingers under the material of my underwear and flicked them straight over my sensitive nub. Tingles spread instantly, making me gasp as I clung to his arm. “Yes,” I breathed, “right there.”

  His lips sucked at the skin on my neck, heightening the sensations that were merging together and quickening my breath.

  “You want a release?” he whispered in my ear.

  Turning my head to look at him, I bit my lip and nodded. He smiled, the grin spreading and almost tipping me over the edge. He loved having control over me. And I quite liked it, too. Who was I kidding? I fucking loved having a man want to take care of me. I was an independent woman, yes, but it was wonderful to have a partner to lean on sometimes.

  His fingers started to swirl faster, one dipping lower and entering me. Circling my entrance at the same time as flicking my C, he held me against him with his other arm, stroking my stomach and kneading my breast.

  “Please…” My voice was tight, pleading.

  He kissed my neck, burying his head under my hair. “Come for me, sweet Della,” he hissed. “Now.”

  His command was followed by his teeth gently clamping down on the back of my neck. The pressure of his fingers intensified, going faster and faster. The slight twinge of his bite mixed with the skilful twirl of his finger sent a fierce shot of desire through me. The tingling pleasure built, hovering on the top of the rollercoaster.

  “Now,” he whispered, kissing my neck where his teeth had been.

  My knees gave out and I moaned loudly as my orgasm crescendo. The burst of ecstasy was sweet as it pulsed outwards, engulfing my whole body. Shuddering, I clenched my eyes closed, revelling in the waves of deliciousness.

  “That’s it.” Malone’s breath fanned my face as the release faded, leaving me limp in his arms.

  Taking his hands away, he scooped me up and cradled me against his chest. I snuggled into him, sniffing the heady scent of pine, sweat and blood. Shit, he hadn’t even had a chance to shower since the rescue.

  “Once we’re clean,” I said, running a hand down the ridges of his muscles. “I’m going to return the favour. With my mouth.”

  A bark of laughter shot from him as he carried me to the bedroom. I waved to Bohdi, who was flat out on the soft rug in front of the fire. My familiar had been through a terrible ordeal.

  “I’ve already had my turn tonight, remember? It’s time to sleep.”

  Lowering me on the bed, he stopped me when I went to sit up. “You’re exhausted. Let me.”

  His fingers dug into the waistband of my leggings, tugging them down my legs. A gasp escaped me when he looked up my figure, his gaze lingering on my still pulsing core.

  “I’ve never had someone undress me before,” I squeaked, almost ready to cover my vulnerability.

  When his smile remained compassionate, I relaxed, allowing him to sit me up and strip off my crop top and bra. His touch was so soft, I almost didn’t feel it.

  “I’ve told you more about me tonight. Tell me something about you.”

  I shivered as he lifted me, barely flinching as he carried me into the bathroom and deposited me in the shower. With a wink, he leant against the sink, crossing his arms over his chest as he watched me.

  Turning on the water, I submerged myself, hiding in order to gather my thoughts and calm my erratic heartbeat. He had been vulnerable to me. He wanted to know me as much as I wanted to know him.

  “Well,” I muttered when I stuck my head out of the water. “I love burgers, American rock music and Netflix, especially a good historical drama.”

  “And?”

  He raised his eyebrows and the effect was breath-taking. Hot man with dark stubble on both his head and chin with flecked brown eyes and a strong square jaw. And… He was delving into my soul, trying to find the real me. And yet, I no longer knew who I was, let alone, who I had been.

  “And I’m afraid that if I allow my wolf spirit free, I’ll never be who I was before.” Shit, talk about blurt the truth.

  It was as if a witch had given me a truth serum. But, they hadn’t. I’d felt safe enough to tell Malone that I was losing myself in my new identity. And my old identity was the sister who had always cared for a brother. That wasn’t a part of myself that I was prepared to let go of. I would always be there for him, we came as a pair. Yet, here I was. With Malone and his pack.

  A sob wrenched from my throat as an image of my brother and lover came into my mind. They’d hit it off instantly, gaining respect of the other within moments.

  Releasing his arms, Malone tugged his shirt over his head and stepped out of his jeans. As he came into the shower, he pulled me into his arms and stroked my spine. I rested my head on his solid chest and sobbed again, swallowing when the tears appeared.

  “We all felt that when we first shifted,” he said, holding me tight, “but I can’t imagine what it must be like for you. You were a witch and that part of you hasn’t gone. In fact, you’re more powerful than ever. Just see your wolf as an extension of who you are, rather than changing you completely. If you allow your wolf spirit to lead the way, she’ll meld within you, giving you nothing but strength.”

  I clung to him, stifling the urge to ugly cry. He was soothing and practical, unlike most men. And yet, I knew he spoke the truth. There was nothing to fear but fear itself, as some random person once said.

  “I have to save my brother,” I muttered, leaning my head back to look up at him. “That’s my number one priority.”

  The water cascaded over his head, running down his face like a waterfall. He smiled, dropping his head to kiss me gently.

  “Very well.” His shoulders relaxed as I calmed. “Tomorrow, we’ll visit my witch friend to see what’s so significant with the painting. Maybe between the two of you, you can figure out why Ertha so desperately wants Drake dead.”

  “Thank you,” I said, unsure whether to be excited or anxious about meeting another witch.

  “After we’ve solved that,” Malone said, interrupting my thoughts, “we’ll see about making amends with a few wolves my father pissed off.”

  Nodding, I agreed, willing to help him to return his pack to its former glory. I just hoped it wasn’t too late.

  Chapter Eleven

  “I can’t believe Rochelle tried to kill you,” Malone said, locking the cabin door behind him as we left. “And you won’t even let me chastise her.”

  Shaking my head, I took his hand as we turned to head towards the car. “We came to an understanding. As much as I love the alpha protection, you have to let me deal with my own stuff sometimes. Us girls had to figure it out between us.”

  A huff expelled from Malone, extending when Rochelle waved at us from the communal area near the cold fire. Most of the pack were gathered around, either munching on their breakfast or staring, glazed and barely awake.

  “I need you,” Rochelle called.

  Glancing at one another, Malone and I raised our eyebrows, laughing when we did it at the exact same time. It wasn’t like Rochelle to be friendly, it would take some getting used to.

  Butterflies fluttered in my belly as we approached. Every time I faced the pack, I felt the tension. I didn’t know much about werewolf law, but in wolf packs, the omega was the scapegoat. I had no doubt that if I was allowed to join the pack, I’d be their omega.

  A couple of the older men and women glared at me, scowling when Malone took my hand. I didn’t know whether to smile or scowl back. I wanted to show them the respect they deserved, but they weren’t giving me the opportunity. The youngsters of the pack where far more welcoming.

  “I’m just telling everyone about what happened last night,” Rochelle announced.

  My stomach plunged to my feet, freezing me to the spot. Malone tugged me to his side as he stood by the table laden with beers and snacks, no doubt put out in preparation for the ceremony tonight. Shit, the ceremony.

  “Della was incredible. Not just as a witch, but a wolf, too. She changed and helped me fight the huge-arse dog-thing. No idea what it was.”

  “A hellhound,” I blurted without thinking.

  All eyes were on me, each with a certain amount of curiosity. My palms broke into a sweat as I released Malone and wiped them on my jeans.

  “Whatever that is,” Rochelle went on, “We held it off until Malone and Manual defeated it.”

  Clearing his throat, Joe glanced at Malone’s cabin. “I smelt a cat as soon as the thing was brought into the camp. It’s not safe for us to be connected to you.” He looked at me, for the first time, addressing me directly. I swallowed down my rising panic. I happened to agree with him. Maybe I should just say that to the old dog.

  “You’re right, I’m a walking target. However, you’re not exactly on good terms with anyone right now either. The Crawley Pack had it in for you, way before I came along, and it was only a matter of time until the row with the witches reached a tipping point.” Keeping my shoulders steady, and my head held high, I stepped in front of Malone – once I’d checked to see if he would object, of course. He was the alpha after all. “How about we make a deal?” My insides shook as I braced myself, not daring to look at Malone. He had no idea what I was about to offer, and I had no doubt that he would throw a hissy fit, despite the fact my plan was pretty genius.

  “Go on,” Joe said flatly.

  “We cancel the ceremony tonight…”

  Cue surprised gasps all round, including Rochelle.

  Manual and Henry came to stand close by, clearly expecting backlash… or maybe even a riot.

  “Hear me out.”

  The disgruntled mumbling stopped. I still didn’t glance at Malone, too afraid of what I might see in his face. I was about to go on when my gaze was drawn to him, despite my attempt at resisting. Ah, okay. He wasn’t shooting fire from his eyeballs like I’d expected. Instead, he raised a questioning eyebrow.

  “I know packs are all about pacts. So, how about we make a pact? I earn your trust by working alongside Malone to expand the pack and align his way of working with yours.” Glancing at Joe, I took a deep breath. “The old ways are gone. It’s time to come together to build a pack that you can be proud of. If I prove myself to you, you’ll accept me, regardless of what I choose to do.”

  “She talks like a wolf,” one of the men said.

  “And fights like one, too,” Rochelle added, “but has the magic of a witch. There’s no denying that she’ll be a valuable asset to our pack.”

  Smiling my thanks to Rochelle, I wrung my hands in front of me. Several of the pack members got up to leave.

  “Please, wait,” I said, licking my lips when they froze in unison. “Oh, fuck, I’m sorry. Why does that happen? I’m sure I’ve seen some of you disobey Malone.”

  Shit, I had unintentionally ordered them, and because of my supposed alpha DNA, they’d had to obey me.

  A chuckle among the younger members of the pack made my cheeks heat. I didn’t know how Malone led so many people. It was a lot of pressure, especially when they stared, judging your every move.

  “An alpha trains himself to control his power,” Lionel said, biting his thumb nail and spitting it out. “He can choose to exert it or give his people free will. Malone demands respect naturally.”

  “Well.” Smiling around at everyone, I shrugged. “It’s a good job I’m not your alpha because I’m crap at learning. I flunked school to look after my brother and when they tried to teach me to levitate, I dropped a chair on my rival's head.”

  A couple of people giggled, breaking me out of my verbal diarrhoea. Oh, jeez, why did I have to embarrass myself?

  “And now you’re an extremely powerful hybrid-witch,” Joe said. “Please tell me you’re better with your magic.” An amused expression crossed his features, crinkling the corner of his wrinkly eyes.

  I tilted my head to the side and folded my arms across my chest. “Just be careful,” I joked. “Chairs are not the only thing I can drop on my enemy’s head anymore.”

  “What about you?” Henry interrupted to speak to Malone. “Are you happy not to go ahead with the ceremony tonight?”

  Drawing himself up to his full height, Malone came to stand beside me. I chewed on the inside of my cheek, my tummy twisting as I looked up into his face. His gaze was on me, searching the depths of my soul. My spirit wolf growled in appreciation when Malone put his arm around my waist.

  “To all the males in the pack,” he said, slowly looking around, “please tell me how to resist my mate when she looks at me like that?”

  The burst of laughter made me smile. It was nice to see the tension had eased around us both, even if deep down, they were still anxious. It took a lot of courage for Malone to stand up to them and declare that he wanted to be with me.

 

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