The Cat’s Meow Again

“Who’s got the popcorn?”

“You were supposed to get it, moron?”

“Why me?”

“Cause you said ‘I’ll get the popcorn’.”

“Why do I always have to make the popcorn? That’s not fair we should split that shit up.”

“But you said…”

“Children.” Ash couldn’t keep the smile off her face as her and Jeff walked into the room holding several bags of popcorn. “We have popped the popcorn. And Drew don’t call Shannon a moron.”

Shannon stuck his tongue out at the larger man.

“Shannon, you did say you were gonna get the popcorn.”

Shannon pouted a little, but smiled when Ash placed a kiss on his cheek.

“How come I didn’t get a kiss?” Drew asked.

Jeff, who was standing next to him, responded. “Well, okay, but you owe me dinner and a movie first.”

“We’re about to watch a movie. And I am a really good cook.”

“I said first, big fella. Payment before services rendered.”

Shannon batted his eyes at Drew. “I don’t require dinner and a movie.”

Ash rolled her eyes at their banter and found a seat. Jeff joined her shortly after. They both reached for some popcorn at the same time. Where their fingers touched the skin tingled. Even several weeks after she’d made Jeff her Alpha they couldn’t get enough of each other.

Trish sat down next to Ash. “You two can go do things to each other later. We’re watching a movie first.”

Jeff grinned at his mate and together they threw a handful of popcorn at Trish. Shawn, who was naked as usual, began picking the kernels out of her hair and popping them into his mouth.

Trish grinned and snuggled back against him. “Throw more.”

Everyone in the room pelted her with popcorn. Rob walked over and dumped a whole bag on her head. Over the laughter Ash heard the phone ringing. Since she appeared to be the only one paying attention, she leaned over Jeff and grabbed the cordless. “Hello?”

“Ashley?”

“Yeah. Hang on. I can hardly hear you.” She got up and felt a hand smack her butt. She shot Jeff a mischievous grin and wiggled her hips as she walked outside. “Okay. Who’s this?”

“It’s Mark.”

“Uh-oh. You only call when it’s bad news.”

“Well, the badness depends on your point of view. You left something over here that I need you to come get.”

“If it’s a dead Alpha I don’t want it.”

“No. She’s gone. But I need you to come by soon. Tonight if you can.”

“I can’t tonight, Mark. You know how rowdy everyone gets after the last hunt. The lunar cycle is over and we need to unwind. It’s movie nights and I have a house full of energetic wereleopards throwing popcorn all over the living room.”

“Okay. Tomorrow then?”

“Yeah, I promise.” Ash caught a whiff of blood on the air. Animal blood. Turning she did a quick scan; making sure all her cats were accounted for. All but Cherry, Zane, and Michelle were there; but they’d moved. Michelle couldn’t handle the growing size of the pard. She’d gotten used to being in a smaller group. Zane’s father had gotten sick so him and Cherry had moved up north to take care of him.

“Ash?”

“I’m still here.”

“Trouble?”

“I’m not sure. But I’ve gotta go. I’ll see you tomorrow.” She hung up the phone and set it on the picnic table beside the empty pool. She sniffed the air again. A deer had been killed recently. Probably while she’d been talking to Mark. The thought pissed her off. Something was on her land hunting. It didn’t take her long to find the carcass. The deer’s throat had been torn out. The pitiful creature was still trying to breath around the gaping hole. Ash reached down and quickly broke its neck. Whatever did this hadn’t been after food. This was a message. Ash stood up and scanned the woods around her. “Alright you son of a bitch. We’ll dance.”

When she walked back inside Jeff ran to her. “What happened?”

“Well boys and girls looks like we’ve got a rogue on our hands.” Ash told them what she’d seen. “I’m gonna go clean up and then we’ll talk about how to deal with the bastard.”

Jeff followed her into the bathroom. He leaned against the door as she washed up. “Think it’s another wereleopard?”

“It doesn’t matter.” Ash wiped her still pink hands on a towel. “Either way, he’s dead.”

“That’s a bit rash, don’t you think?”

“Jeff, he came onto our land and killed a deer right under our nose. Doesn’t that piss you off?”

“Yeah, but it also worries me. He got close without any of us knowing it. And I think that’s what’s got you so worked up.”

“You can think logically later. Now, I’m too mad to listen.”

“Ash, can we just try this my way? Please? Just this once.”

“Okay. Fine. But if he hurts anyone we go to my way.”

“Deal.” He sealed their agreement with a kiss.

Ash looked in his eyes and suddenly she saw him differently. He was tied up; gagged. He was on his knees. Someone was behind him. Clayton. Through her tunnel vision she saw pale arms holding Jeff’s head down, forcing his face into the carpet. Clayton stepped up behind him. Ash shook her head, refusing to see what happened next.

Jeff, the real Jeff, glanced behind him; then looked back at Ash. “Another, uh…headache?”

“Yeah.” Ash felt sick to her stomach.

“Wanna talk about it?”

She shook her head. Jeff knew she’d been getting some of Gabrielle’s old memories. They both agreed not to tell everyone else. But they were getting steadily worse. They’d been waking her up in the middle of the night. “It’s gone. We’ll talk about it later.”

Jeff let her walk away. Some of the memories she wouldn’t talk about; saying they were too personal to the people involved. He knew some of the more creative punishments Gabrielle had come up with. Too personal scared him. Especially since this wasn’t something he could help Ash with. The only thing he could do was hold her hair back when they made her sick. He sighed and joined everyone back in the living room. The smile Ash gave him when he sat next to her was like it’d been 30 minutes ago. She’d been very good at hiding her problem from the pard.

“So,” Ash became all business in a snap. “Jeff wants to handle this logically. I say we come up with a logical way to kill him without any of us getting hurt. Who’s with me?”

“Ash…”

“Okay, okay…” Ash turned her attention to Jeff. “Tell us your plan.”

“I don’t really have a plan. But I think this rogue is probably pretty powerful. We didn’t hear or smell him come onto our land. We should try to find him. Bring him back here. So we can talk to him.”

“And what if he hurts one of ours in the process?”

“Then we hurt him back.”

Ash grinned. “I’ll have you thinking like me yet.”

Rob stood up and said, “Should we start now?”

Ash answered. “No. I’m sure he’s long gone. Tonight was probably just a message. Letting us know he’s out there. We’ll get him, but we do need to lay out some ground rules. We only hunt in groups. At least two, more if possible. If any of us see him, or any signs of him we hunt. Keep all senses open. You may smell him before you see or hear him. And watch your backs. He hasn’t tried to hurt us yet, but we don’t know what his intentions are.”

Jeff nodded. “And try to bring him back alive, but not at risk to yourself. His life isn’t worth any of yours.”

Ash and Jeff stood. “Me and the brain are going to bed. You guys can watch the movie without us.”

Jeff put his arm around her shoulders. “Headache getting worse?”

“No. Just don’t wanna risk it.”

Ash was quiet as they moved around the room, getting ready for bed. Once they were snuggled under the covers together Jeff asked. “Wanna talk about what you saw?” His voice was soft. He ran a soothing hand up and down her back.

“Jeff, you never told me he raped you.”

His hand stilled on her back. “That’s what you saw?”

She nodded.

“I never told you because it wasn’t important. It wasn’t about you. It was before you were even here.”

“I’m not trying to pick a fight, Jeff. You don’t have to talk about it.”

“It was the most demeaning experience of my life. I’d rather not relive it.”

“Okay. I won’t mention it again.”

He kissed the top of her head. “Thank you.”

Shawn sat at the kitchen table playing solitaire. He glanced up as Rob walked in. “How’s it going?”

Shawn grunted. “It’s going.”

“Aren’t you restless?”

Shawn put his cards down. “Do I look restless?”

“No, I guess no.” Rob threw imaginary punches at the air. “I just can’t sit still.”

“Try.” Shawn pushed a chair out with his foot. “It’s not hard. You just put your ass in a chair and stay there for a little bit.”

Rob sighed and flopped down. “I think I’ll go crazy if I don’t do something.”

Shawn’s eyes took on a mischievous glint. “Or someone?”

Rob thought a moment. “That could work. But Ash is with Jeff. Heather and Amy are busy with Adam.”

“Oh. So you still think you’re straight?”

Rob cleared his throat and looked away. “I am straight, man. I don’t do guys.”

“Then why is that flush creeping up your neck? Why did your pulse speed up? And better yet, why are you still sitting here next to a naked guy?” Shawn scooted his chair back.

“Maybe you don’t do guys. But what about guys doing you?”

Rob tried to keep his voice even. “Same thing.”

“Is it? Then tell me no.”

“What’re you going to do?”

“Tell me no,” was Shawn’s only answer. Rob remained quiet. Shawn crawled under the table.

Rob jumped a little when he felt Shawn’s hands on his thighs, heading for his zipper. Shawn undid the jeans and Rob groaned. He was already fully hard. Rob heard the other man speak over his labored breathing. “Tell me no.”

When Rob still didn’t answer, Shawn lowered his head. Rob gasped at the first contact of Shawn’s warm tongue. He started at the base and slowly licked his way to the top.

Rob watched in fascination at the sight. Shawn looked up at him as if feeling his gaze. Their eyes locked and Shawn took Rob fully in his mouth. Rob’s head fell back with a groan. Shawn’s cheeks hollowed with his suction. He bobbed his head several times before taking Rob down his throat. Rob’s back arched. He felt a tingling start in his balls and knew it wouldn’t be long. He bucked his hips up to meet Shawn’s withdrawing mouth. He bit his lips, trying to keep his cries quiet. He was just about out of his mind when Shawn pulled away. He pinched the head of Rob’s dick, keeping the orgasm back. Rob looked down frantically. “I didn’t tell you no.”

“But you didn’t tell me yes, either. I’m not a selfish lover. I expect the same in return. If you want me to finish what I started you know where to find me.” He placed one last light lick on Rob’s swollen flesh and left.

Rob sat there gasping, not quite sure how to handle what had just happened. He heard someone coming and quickly slid his chair under the table. Drew walked in and gave him a funny look. “What’cha doing?”

“Uh, nothing.”

“What’s with the cards?” Drew pointed to the forgotten solitaire game.

“Shawn was playing.”

“With the cards? Or with you?”

“What’s that supposed to mean?”

The look Drew gave him said he knew what had been going on. “Why didn’t you follow him?”

“I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

Drew snorted and headed to the fridge. “Okay, Rob.” He pulled out a coke and took a big drink. “So, you’re not gonna sleep with Shawn?”

Rob swallowed loudly and shook his head.

Drew shrugged. “Suit yourself.”

Rob waited until his friend left the room, and then zipped his pants up. He decided sleep was what he needed. As he passed Shawn’s room he heard…”Not who I expected. But a Nice surprise.”

Drew laughed from within. Rob hurried by into the safety of his own room.

The next morning, over breakfast, Rob was quiet. Across from him Shawn kept staring. Whenever Rob glanced up Shawn would lick his lips. When he dropped a napkin and leaned under the table to get it, Rob bolted from the room.

Ash glared at Shawn. “What’d you do?”

Shawn tried for an innocent look as he held up the piece of paper. “Just dropped my napkin.”

“And Rob was in such a hurry to leave because…”

“How should I know? Maybe he suffers from napkin fear?”

Beside him Jeff choked back laughter. Ash absently pounded him on the back. “Yeah Shawn. I’m sure that’s it. Napkin fear.” She turned her attention to Jeff. “You okay, sugar?”

“I was before you started beating the shit out of me.”

“I just wanted to make sure you weren’t choking dear.”

He gave her a dry look. “Thanks for the concern. But I’m fine now.”

“Good good.” Ash pushed back form the table and stood. “Okay, kiddies, play nice today. I’ve got to go out for a bit.”

Jeff looked up at her. “You sure you don’t want me to come with you?”

“I’m sure.” She leaned down and gave him a lingering kiss. “I’ll be back later.” Ash went down to the garage and slid behind the wheel of her baby. After popping her favorite CD in, she was off. It didn’t take her long to reach the compound.

Kane greeted her at the door. “Morning, sugar. Is the Deadman up?”

Kane nodded looking more grim than usual. “He’s in the office. With your new recruit.”

Ash gave him a puzzled frown and let him lead her. He opened the door and motioned for her to precede him. Mark was seated behind his desk. Someone else was across from him. The stranger had his back turned so Ash couldn’t see his face. He had hair cut short enough to spike the tips. His familiar scent floated to her nose, but her eyes refused to see it. He finally stood and turned around.

Ash glared at him and then at Mark. “Please tell me this is not what I’m here to pick up.”

Mark nodded. “Afraid so, Ash. He shifted a few days ago. At least it’s not a dead Alpha.”

Ash flopped down in a chair by the door. “I’m debating which one is worse.”

Christian finally spoke. “Your opinion of me must be very low, Ash. From what I hear Gabrielle almost killed people.”

“Yeah well, people might still die, Chrissy Cakes.”

He flinched at her old nickname. “Is it normal for an Alpha to threaten new cats?”

“I’m not threatening you. Adam’s gonna go crazy. He’ll either kill you on sight, or go for me ‘cause I brought you into the house.”

“He’s still mad?”

“Big understatement.” Ash heaved a disgruntled sigh. “I need to talk to Mark for a minute. Wait for me outside.”

Christian made the mistake of glancing at Mark, as if to ask permission. Fury filled Ash’s eyes. The smell of Earth brought Christian’s head around. Ash glared at him and he felt pressure pushing him to his knees. “I am your Alpha now. I ordered you to leave the room. Next time you obey me immediately. Now GO!”

The pressure holding him down lifted and he made a hasty retreat.

Mark raised an eyebrow at her.

Ash shrugged and sat down. “Since I took on my Alpha I’ve gained some extra powers.”

“As useful as that one?”

“Mostly.” Was her evasive answer.

He let it go. “What did you need to talk about?”

“I’ve been having a few reoccurring problems.”

“Since the possession?”

“Yeah. I’ve been getting some of Gabrielle’s old memories. Stuff that I shouldn’t see. Wish I never saw. Sometimes they even make me sick.”

Mark chuckled. “You always did have a weak stomach.”

It was Ash’s turn to let a comment go. She’d watched various animals being beheaded and seen more disturbing images than most people. She didn’t think she had a weak stomach. “So can you help me?”

“Most likely, no. I did all I could by extracting her. Any residual effects are beyond even me.”

“So who can then?”

“I think you already know where to start.”

Ash nodded dismally. “I was hoping there’d be a less painful solution.”

“Is seeing them so painful?”

“Mark, when they finally accepted that I had no real power, she declared me a failed experiment. I haven’t spoken to them since.”

“Well I gave you a starting point. What you choose to do with the information is up to you.”

Ash started to leave. “Oh. How did Christian get turned?"

“You don’t remember?”

“If I did I wouldn’t be asking.”

Mark let the sarcasm slide. “Last time you were here, when you shifted, Christian got too close to your claws.”

“Great. So Christian fell onto a shifting wereleopard and I’m getting punished.”

“It looks that way.”

“Fucking great.” Ash flung the door open and found Christian waiting. “Follow me.”

“Have I become a pet?”

“Without comment. Follow me without comment.” She went out to the car and just sat behind the wheel. “Why me?”

She slammed her forehead down onto the steering wheel.

“You’re going to hurt yourself.”

“I don’t care.” Ash sat up and started the car. “I just don’t care anymore.” She pulled out onto the highway. “Just don’t talk to me right now. Okay, Christian. Just don’t speak.” They rode to the house in silence. Ash parked and started toward the house. Christian followed reluctantly. She glanced over her shoulder at him. “Get ready for fur to fly.” She was pleased to see him pale.

They found a few people gathered in the living room. Adam shot to his feet as soon as he saw Christian. “What’s he doing here?”

“Sit down, Adam.” When he did Ash continued. “Christian is a new cat. He lives here now and he will be treated with the same respect everyone else is.” She stared at Adam, who pointedly ignored her. “Adam?”

He stood up again. “Ash, this is one problem even you can’t hope to fix. And you should know that.” He turned to Christian with hate in his eyes. “Stay out of my way or I can’t promise your safety.” He strode form the room and slammed his bedroom door.

Ash sighed, “That went well.”

Christian stared at her. “That’s your idea of well?”

She patted his shoulder. “You’re still alive. Don’t bitch. Now get someone to find you a room.”

Heather tugged lightly on Ash’s shirt.

“Yeah?”

“What’s wrong with Adam?”

“He’ll be fine. I think. Give him some time. I’m gonna go talk to him.”

“Okay.” Heather backed up to join Amy.

Ash stared at the two for a moment. “You two aren’t still afraid of me, are you?”

Amy smiled a little. “Getting thrown around by the Alpha will do that to ya.”

Ash nodded and looked at Heather. “What’s your excuse?”

Heather blushed bright red and Amy answered for her. “She’s harboring fantasies about Jeff.”

“And the problem is what?”

“She saw you throw me around.”

“Oh, I see. Well, you stop worrying, I’m not gonna toss you into anymore walls. And Heather…” She waited until the other girl met her gaze. “I won’t hurt you for wanting my Alpha.”

“Really?”

“Really. In fact, I’ll do ya one better. Stay here a sec.” Ash found Jeff in their room sketching in a notebook. “Hey, sugar, you busy?”

He laid the paper down. “Not much.”

“Good. I’ve got a proposition for you.”

“Oh really?” His eyes took on an interested gleam.

“Adam’s is going to be out of commission for awhile. Feel like entertaining Heather and Amy for the day.”

“In what sense?”

“In every sense.”

He pretended to think about it. “I think I can manage.”

“My valiant Alpha. Always willing to do what needs to be done.”

“And it’s such a burden. But I always rise to the challenge.”

Ash couldn’t help but smirk. “They’re waiting in the living room. Tell them you’re a peace offering from me.”

“Will do.” He started to leave but turned back. “One more thing.” He pulled her to him in a rough kiss. His tongue deftly slipped past her lips and fought for dominance. He put his hands on her butt and lifted her up to him so he could make the kiss as deep as possible. Much too soon he pulled away. “You forgot to give me a hello kiss.”

Ash grinned with puffy lips and lightly shoved at his chest. “Go. Before I change my mind.”

He set her down and with a grin of his own, left. Ash went down the hall to Adam’s room. She knocked lightly and poked her head inside. “Hey.”

“What?”

“Wanna talk?”

He was standing by the window looking out. “What’s there to talk about?”

“Sex, drugs, and rock and roll.”

He cracked a small smile, but it didn’t last. “Ash, I meant it. You can’t fix this.”

She sighed and sat on his bed. “I know. But I can’t help that Christian has to be here now.”

“Make him transfer.”

“I’ve thought about that. But it’s not fair to him.”

He turned from the window. “How can you be thinking about his feelings? Last time I checked you hated him too. It’s not just me he walked away from.”

Ash looked down at her hands. “I never felt as much for him as you did. Most of my anger was on your behalf.”

“And you’re over it? Just like that?”

“No. But the situation can’t be helped. I’m gonna ask him to transfer. But if he refuses I can’t make him.”

“Why should he refuse? He knows I hate him.”

“Maybe the same reason he still sends you birthday cards.”

“I don’t even read the fucking things.”

“But he doesn’t know that.”

“Ash, if you’re trying to fix us, stop. I might hurt him.”

Ash sighed again and got up. “Adam, I understand. I really do. But if you hurt him, I’ll have to punish you. I’d do the same to any other pard member. I can’t make an exception for you and Christian.”

“Then you better tell him to stay away form me and my girls.” Ash met his gaze and shivered. There was death in his eyes. It was the look he used to get before he went out on a job. The look he had the night everything went wrong.

When Ash stepped out of Adam’s room she noticed Nicky and Micha’s door ajar. She poked her head in. “Hey guys.”

They looked up from the movie they were watching. Micha responded with an enthusiastic. “Hello. Wanna join us?”

She walked into the room. “What’cha watching?”

“The Fast And The Furious.”

“Sure. Always up for a little Vin Diesel.”

Micha smiled devilishly, “No such thing as a little.” They scooted over to make room on the bed for their Alpha. Ash layed down and settled herself next to Nicky. Micha was stretched out behind him. Ash shivered slightly as Nicky’s long hair brushed her neck. His soft musical voice drifted to her. “To what do we owe this unexpected visit?"

“Shhh. I’m ogling.”

Nicky smiled and pulled her closer. “What ever you say, Alpha.”

When the movie finished Ash sat up. The two men stared at her. “Leaving already?” Micha asked.

“I actually didn’t plan to stay this long. I just wanted to ask you guys a question.”

They patiently waited.

“I think I’m gonna have to go to New Orleans for a few days. I want someone that knows magic with me.”

“That’s where I come in?” Nicky asked.

“Yeah.”

“Ash, I’m only a quarter fey. I don’t have much power. A bit of glamour magic maybe.”

“Yeah, but you can sense magic. And you can fight.”

“Don’t your parents live in New Orleans? Will you really need a fighter?”

“It’s a possibility.”

Nicky had questions in his eyes that he thankfully left unasked. “When do we leave?”

“I don’t know yet. I’ll let you know.” Ash watched the two of them, watching her. “Why do I suddenly feel like an appetizer for a bunch of starving wereleopards?”

Nicky looked away while Micha answered. “Nicky’s agreed to try new things.”

“By new things, I’m assuming you mean sexually?”

Nicky’s eyes returned to lock with hers. “Yes.”

Ash laid a hand on Nicky’s cheek. “Sweetheart, you know I’d love to help you through any problems I could. But is this what you really want?”

“I understand Micha’s desire to be with other people. I’m holding him back.”

“I’m not asking about Micha. I’m asking about you.”

“The reason I can understand his desire is because I’m starting to feel it too. But every time I think about another person I feel shame.”

“Why?”

“Because part of my mind says that you should only want one person. And they should be enough. But then part of me wants the variety that everyone else has.”

“So why me?”

“Micha and I have talked about it. You’re the only other person I feel totally comfortable with.”

“Well, are you sure you wouldn’t rather have someone else? Like Shannon. He’s not threatening.”

“No. I would rather be with you.”

“Okay. So what do you want me to do?”

Nicky grinned at her. “Do you really need us to spell it out for you?”

Ash blushed. “I just meant, you know, where do I come in?”

“We didn’t really talk about that.”

“How ‘bout this. I’ll stay right here. You guys just do what you normally do and I’ll step in eventually.”

“Works for me.” Nicky took a deep breath and rolled onto his back. Micha kissed him without being prompted. Ash marveled at their differences. Where Micha had five o’clock shadow, Nicky’s face was completely smooth. She felt compelled to touch his cheek. His eyes snapped open and he tensed up. When he realized it was just Ash he relaxed again. She slowly lay down and pressed herself next to him.

Micha released Nicky’s mouth and peppered kisses down his throat. Ash reached over and unbuttoned Nicky’s shirt. She bared his chest and ran her fingers over his stomach. She heard Nicky gasp and looked up to see Micha gently bite his nipple. Ash moved her head up to the other one and gave it the same attention. Nicky was already squirming by the time Micha reached his pants. He deftly unzipped them around the bulge. Ash glanced down appreciatively. Nicky lifted his hips to help Micha pull them off. Micha knelt at the end of the bed and pulled his own clothes off. He crawled up to Ash. “Should I ask permission to undress you?”

Ash gave him a funny look. “Don’t think of me as Alpha for now.”

Micha grinned and her. His hands roamed under her shirt and over her chest. She felt Nicky’s cool touch on her stomach undoing her pants. Micha broke the kiss to take her shirt off. After she was naked Ash laid back down next to Nicky. He curled his arm around her and pulled her close. Ash buried her nose in his soft, fragrant hair.

“I don’t think that’s where he wants you face, dear.”

Nicky snorted. “Don’t be crude, Micha.”

Ash grinned and moved down his body. “It’s okay. I think I can figure this part out myself.” She moved down between Nicky’s legs. She braced her hands on his slim hips and leaned down. She blew warm air onto his length and he sighed. She gave him a few teasing licks before taking him into her mouth.

Micha sat back and watched her mouth manipulate his long time lover. He was surprised to find he wasn’t jealous in the least. Nicky opened his eyes and looked at him. His voice was breathy when he asked, “Feeling left out?”

“I’m fine. Watching you two is exciting.”

Ash lifted her head, “Wanna take my place?”

Micha grinned. “Why not?”

They switched places, but Micha started by licking up Nicky’s inner thigh. Ash watched him take Nicky’s balls into his mouth and lightly suck. Nicky arched up and rubbed one finger in the pre-cum oozing from the tip of Nicky’s dick. His hand disappeared back under his body and inserted it into him. Micha lifted his head and asked Ash, “Could you reach into the drawer behind you? There’s a bottle of lube.”

She retrieved the bottle and handed it to Micha. He sat back and spread some over himself. He leaned back down and lifted Nicky’s hips. Micha slowly pushed forward until he was completely inside Nicky’s body. A flush crept up his pale skin. As Micha started to thrust, Nicky reached down to stroke himself. Ash pushed his hand away and replaced it with her own. She matched her rhythm with Micha’s and soon both men were panting. Nicky tensed and let out a shout as Ash felt him explode in her hand. A split second later Micha cried out and collapsed on him. They lay there, trying to slow their breathing. Finally Ash spoke up. “Uh guys?”

Two sets of drowsy eyes turned to her. “Can I have my arm back? It’s kind of an awkward position.”

Micha chuckled and lifted his hips enough to let her pull her arm free.

Ash smiled appreciatively and lay down next to them with her eyes closed. Micha slipped to Nicky’s other side. She felt Nicky’s fingers between her legs and heard him moving. Her eyes snapped open at his hair tickling her thighs. He ducked his head down and playfully licked her the way she’d done to him. She nearly sobbed in frustration. “Please don’t tease me right now.”

Nicky grinned and thankfully complied. It didn’t take her long to reach her own orgasm. He flopped down between Micha and her again. “Thank you. That wasn’t bad.”

“Wasn’t bad, sugar? I thought it was pretty darn good.”

Micha nodded his agreement. “Maybe we’ll make you a well balanced wereleopard yet.”

“Well balanced means promiscuous, huh?” Nicky asked.

Ash yawned. “Pretty much. This is the part where we all have a catnap. So everyone shut-up.”

“Back to being Alpha again?”

Ash nodded sleepily, not sure who’d asked. Nicky curled into her side and placed a soft kiss on her temple. “I really am glad you agreed to this.”

“No problem, sugar. I’m flattered you asked me. You know how much I’ve worried about the two of you.” She turned her head to look at him and ran her fingers through his hair.

“You’re the one person I couldn’t help. Ever.”

Nicky nodded and gave her a sweet smile. “I know. Before I trusted anyone, I knew I could trust you.”

Ash gave him a puzzled frown.

“Whenever I was, uh, performing for Gabrielle, you had such rage on your face.”

“Rage only goes so far. There was nothing I could do to save you.”

“That you wanted to was enough. You had tears in your eyes and I thought she hates this as much as I do. She flinches every time I do. She’s the only one not afraid to show her distaste openly. Before I trusted you, I respected you. You knew how to pick your battles. Save your energy for the people you could help.” Nicky wiped a tear from her cheek. “No more tears. I’m healing. See, you were able to help me.”

Ash smiled a little sadly. “I just wish I wasn’t so late.”

“Better late than never. And I mostly wanted you here with us, because I knew you’d feel responsible for being helpless where I was concerned.”

Ash kissed him gently on the lips and tucked her head into his neck. With the soft scent of his shampoo filling her senses she fell asleep.

Ash stretched as she woke from a light doze. Nicky stirred beside her but didn’t wake up. She quietly slipped out of bed and dressed. She stood by the door and looked at the two one more time. Without warning she was locked in another memory.

Gabrielle sat in a throne like chair with Nicky on his knees before her. Her voice slithered through Ash’s mind. “Crawl to me, little fairy. Lick my feet.”

Nicky obeyed. His progress was slow. His hands and feet were tied together. When he bent his head toward her boots she laughed and kicked him in the face. “Not quick enough. Not graceful enough. Not fey enough.”

Nicky struggled to sit up. Clayton stepped from the shadows and pulled him to his feet by the hair. “How would you like him, Mistress?”

The bitch laughed again and stood up. “He just loves this part.”

Nicky tensed up and Ash could see panic set in. She’d done this before. He knew what would come next. “Lay him over the bed.”

Clayton tossed Nicky’s top half over the bed, leaving his feet on the floor. She stepped up behind his shaking form. Without any preparation she inserted two fingers into him. Nicky gasped and tried to remain still. Sweat broke out on his face. Gabrielle added another finger and another. Nicky cried out, but she didn’t stop there. She didn’t stop until Nicky was screaming and she was in up to her elbow. Then without warning she violently ripped her arm out. Blood dripped from her nails in crimson drops.

Ash felt herself gagging and flew from the room. She could still hear Nicky screaming as she buried her head in the toilet. When she’d emptied her stomach she stood on shaky legs and washed her face with cool water.

When she looked up Jeff was by her side. “A bad one?”

Ash nodded and dried her face. “Real bad.”

He pulled her against his bare chest. “Did you talk to Mark about them?”

“Yeah. I’m going down to New Orleans to find someone who can help.”

He ran his fingers through her hair. “Do you want me to come?”

“No. You should stay here and play Alpha while I’m gone. Nicky’s coming with me.”

“When will you leave?”

Ash shuddered at the last bit of memory. “As soon as I can. I can’t keep getting these memories. They’ll drive me crazy.”

“I know, baby.” He kissed the top of her head and held her tighter. “I know.”

Ash gathered everyone together that night. Jeff kept his arm around her as she told them about the memories. “They’re getting worse to the point that I can’t handle them. Something needs to be done soon. Now.”

Trish spoke up from beside her. “Why didn’t you tell us before?”

“I didn’t want to worry anyone. I was hoping they’d go away with time. But it doesn’t look like that’s a possibility.”

“What do you see in them?”

“Some of the worst things Gabrielle did to us. Things I don’t ever want to say out loud.” Ash refused to meet anyone’s eyes. “We leave tonight. Nicky, how soon can you be ready?”

“Within the hour.” He stood and left the room.

“Isn’t tonight a little hasty, Ash?”

Ash turned to Jeff. “I don’t think so. I don’t want her in my head any longer than I have to.”

Jeff nodded. “I’ll go start packing for you.” He left without another word.

Ash laid her head back against the couch. “It seems like everything’s falling apart again.”

“Don’t think like that or it will.” Shannon curled up next to her. “Anything else you need help with?”

“Get the Alpha of New Orleans on the phone. I’ll need to ask permission to stay there.”

Trish stood. “I’ll do that. I’m a better diplomat than Shannon.”

“Do you need a map?” Shannon was trying hard to be helpful.

“No. I know the way there.”

“Okay. Well, I’ll go help Jeff load your car.”

“Thanks, Shanny.”

Trish came back a minute later. “Staying in the city is a no go. Their Alpha said Gabrielle’s reputation precedes you. You can visit as long as you’re out by nightfall.”

“SHIT! Did you explain that my business there wasn’t as Alpha wereleopard?”

”Yep. I had to argue to even get her to say you could be there during the day.”

“Alright. Fine. We’ll just find some where else to stay.”

“She did say there’s a leopard that lives by himself outside the city. In the bayou.”

“Great. A coon ass. But I guess he’s our best shot. Will you call him for me?”

“Can’t. She said he doesn’t have a phone.”

“Fucking great. Did the bitch at least give you directions?”

Trish handed her a piece of paper. “Be careful if you decide to try him. You don’t know why he decided to live by himself in the swamp.”

“Well, I’ve got a 12 hour drive to think about it.”

True to his word, Nicky was ready before the hour was up. He drove first while Ash catnapped in the passenger seat. She woke up when they crossed the state line. “I have a feeling I won’t be the same person when we come back.”

“Why’s that?” He asked quietly.

“Going home always does that to me.”

Nicky shook his head. “New Orleans isn’t home anymore, Ash. St. Louis is. That’s where your real family lives.”

Ash reached over and played with his long hair. “You may believe that more after you meet Patrick and Clara.”

“Who?”

“My parents.”

“You call them by their first names.”

“They weren’t really into the parenting thing. I was the product of an experiment to see how their power would blend. They weren’t pleased with the result.”

“But you are powerful.”

“They consider it borrowed power. It comes from an outside source.”

“Power is power.”

“Not to them. Next time you stop for gas, I’ll drive.”

“We’re not even half way there yet.”

“I know. But it’ll give me something to concentrate on.”

A few hours later, Nicky pulled into a gas station. They both got out and stretched cramped muscles while the gas pumped. After they paid Ash slid behind the wheel. The closer they got to New Orleans the more anxious she became. She could feel the pull of the city like some great hand beckoning her closer. She glanced at Nicky to see if he felt it, but he appeared as serene as always. As they reached the city limits, just after dawn, her whole demeanor changed. She was more closed off, withdrawn. Nicky handed her the directions to the wereleopard’s house. It took them about ten minutes to get there.

The house they pulled up to looked like a renovated shack. Which was probably the truth. The hum of window unit air conditioners and insects filled the air.

“Think he’s awake?”

Ash stepped out f the car. “There’s only one way to find out.” She led the way up to the front door. Nicky positioned himself to the side, placing his hands within easy reach of a weapon. Ash banged on the door and waited.

They heard footsteps from within and the door opened. A tall lanky man stood in the doorway staring at them. His shaggy brown hair had touches of gray at the temples, though his face looked no more than thirty. His eyes sparkled with intelligence and his voice was whisper soft when he asked. “Can I help you?”

Ash cleared her throat, embarrassed that she’d been caught staring. “I sure hope so, sugar.” She quickly explained their situation.

“So you’re looking for a place to stay outside the city?”

“We can pay you.”

The man shook his head slightly. “Money would not sway me. But you can stay. It might be refreshing to be around other people again.” He stepped back and allowed them to enter the dim interior. “My name is Viggo,” he called over his shoulder on his way to the kitchen.

Ash followed behind, unable to keep her eyes from his backside. “I’m Ash. This is Nicky.”

He turned around and once again. Ash felt a blush stain her cheeks. The man was beautiful. “Please forgive me if I seem a bit unsteady. It’s been a long time since I’ve been around other wereleopards. The pard couldn’t understand my need for space so I moved out here.”

“Uh-huh.”

“Are you hungry?”

“What?” She’d been letting her thoughts slide.

“Breakfast.”

“Oh. Yeah. Nicky?”

Beside her, Nicky looked as flustered as she felt. “Yeah. Food is good.”

Glad to know their host was affecting him too, Ash smiled. “What’cha got?”

Viggo returned the friendly gesture and continued to the kitchen. He put some coffee on and began heating up some stew. “I hope you don’t mind not having traditional breakfast food.”

“We’re as not traditional as it gets, sugar. As long as the coffee’s hot, I’m happy.”

Viggo dished up the stew in hand made bowls. The coffee mugs were of the same style. Nicky studied the intricate designs. “They’re beautiful. Who’s the artist?”

“I am. I mostly paint, but I dabble in just about everything. If you’d like, after breakfast, I can show you more.”

Nicky let his interest show in his eyes. “I would love that.”

After they’d cleaned up, Viggo gave them a tour. Most of his art was faces with different emotions. Rarely was anything drawn below the neck. Ash found it odd, but didn’t comment. They ended up back in the kitchen. Viggo poured himself another cup of coffee. “You two are probably tired. If you’d like to clean up and rest you can use my bedroom.”

Nicky left to get their few bags. Ash sat down across from Viggo. “Are you sure we’re not imposing?”

“I haven’t decided yet. You haven’t been here long.”

“Oh.”

“I’m joking. I do that occasionally.”

Ash gave him a funny look. “We might be here for a few days.”

“I figured that.”

“Are we going to share your room the whole time?”

Viggo gave her an intense look and for the first time she saw heat in his eyes. “Is that a problem?”

“Not at all. I was just checking.”

“It’s either me or the gators.”

“Which is more dangerous?”

“Depends on what kind of danger you’re worried about.”

Ash stood when Nicky came back. “I think I like my chances in here better.”

“Good choice.” He gave them an enigmatic smile. “Will you be heading into the city today?”

“No. By the time we’d get there, we’d have to leave. Might as well rest up for now.” Ash and Nicky walked back down the hall to the only bedroom.

“What was that about?”

Ash shrugged with a smile. “I’m not sure. But I’m willing to find out.”

“Did that influence your decision to put off seeing your parents?”

Ash didn’t answer. She just pulled her clothes off and headed for the shower. Nicky joined her after she was under the hot water. “I figured we could both sleep sooner if we showered together.”

Ash nodded and continued washing her hair. When she was done Nicky took her place. He looked like a woodland nymph with his head thrown back, water sliding down his face. She picked up the soap and rubbed the bar along his chest then moved down to his legs.

“I should be washing you, Alpha.”

“You’ll get your chance. And call me by name, Nicky.” She moved closer and slid her body against his as she stood.

“Should we be doing this? We’re guests here.”

Ash thought about that for a minute. “You’re probably right.”

They rinsed off and got out. After they were dry they fell into bed and were quickly asleep.

They woke to the last rays of dusk slipping away into darkness. Ash knew immediately someone else was in the room. She was turning her head when Viggo said. “Don’t move.”

She froze, suddenly on alert. Nicky was tense beside her.

“I can feel your agitation. Just relax. You two are beautiful together. I wanted to sketch you before I lose the light.”

Ash forced herself to relax. From her position she could see most of the room. Since she couldn’t see Viggo, she guessed he was off to her left by the window. She looked down her body to where Nicky’s head was resting on her stomach. The sheet had slipped down, exposing her breasts. Nicky’s hair was fanned out on the bed behind him. The sheet had become tangled around his hips, leaving only one pale calf free. Ash was for the most part uncovered.

She slowly turned her head to the side, giving Viggo time to stop her. He was seated to the right of the window with a large book in his hands. His eyes flicked up then back down. After a few minutes he laid the book aside. “I hope you don’t mind. I came in here to get some paint and couldn’t resist drawing you.”

“Can we see?”

He shook his head. “It’s not done.”

“But you’ve stopped drawing.”

“That doesn’t mean it’s finished. I’ll show you before you leave.” He stood up as if to leave.

“How long has it been since you’ve had someone to draw?”

“Why are you asking?”

“In payment for letting us stay here you may use us as models. During the day we will have business in the city. But as night we are yours. Does that sound fair?”

Interest flashed in his eyes. “Both of you?”

Nicky answered. “Both of us.”

“I can’t say when I’ll want to draw you. Inspiration comes at odd moments.”

“As long as it’s at night, I don’t care.”

“It’s a deal. Now come on. Dinner is ready.”

After dinner Nicky moved restlessly around the small kitchen. “What’s the matter, sugar?”

“I feel the need to walk the land. There is magic in the ground that calls to me.”

Ash turned to Viggo. “How safe is it to walk around here after dark?”

“All the animals will recognize you as a natural predator. They won’t bother you.”

“Alright then. Nicky why don’t you go burn some of that energy off. You’re making me nervous. Acting like a caged leopard and all.”

Nicky retreated out the front door. Ash hopped onto the counter next to the sink, where Viggo was washing the dishes. “Need help?”

“Thank you, but no. I like to keep my hands busy.”

Ash had to choke down a dirty response. “Sugar, you’re sure not making this easy.”

“What?” He didn’t even look up from the sink.

“Nuthin.” Ash figured a subject change was needed. “You never answered my question about having someone to draw.”

“No, I didn’t.”

“Is there a reason you’re avoiding it?”

“Yes.”

“Okay. You pick the topic of conversation then.”

“Why do we have to talk at all?”

Ash fanned herself. “You sure do go from cold to hot, hon.”

He have her a puzzled frown. “I only meant, why do you need to fill the silence with chatter?”

“That’s just me. I talk when I’m nervous.”

“Why are you nervous?”

“Isn’t it obvious?”

“Not to me. And there you go again. You’re purposefully answering a question with a question just to keep talking. I’m getting the impression that you like the sound of your own voice.”

“Was that an insult?”

“If you choose to take it as one. But I was merely making an observation.”

“Maybe you’re right. Maybe you shouldn’t talk.”

“Have I offended you?”

“I’m not sure.”

“Finally,” Viggo turned to her. “Something honest.”

“How do you figure?"

“Your uncertainty. That’s honest. You’re not sure if you should be here. Or in New Orleans for that matter. Your business here concerns you the most. Was coming a good idea or a bad idea? You’re not nervous about a little sexual tension.”

She stared at him in shock. “Am I that obvious?”

“I’ve always been good at reading people.”

Ash hopped off the counter and turned him to face her. “Tell me more.”

“You cover up your insecurities with anger. It’s probably something you learned at a young age. But you don’t believe in blaming others for your shortcomings. As a result you try to fix everyone else because you can’t fix yourself.”

“How do you know this stuff?”

“By watching you.”

“I’ll remember that.”

Viggo looked disappointed. “Don’t shut yourself down because I told you a few things about yourself that you already knew. I can see that you’re not used to brutal honesty.”

“No, I’m not. And you shook me. It makes me wonder how many other people can read me like that.”

“Does it matter? What are you trying to hide?”

“From you?”

“From anyone.”

Ash thought about making a sarcastic comment but opted against it. “I guess I’m still trying to hide the vulnerable part of me. The weak part. So no one can hurt me.”

“You use vulnerable and weak together like they’re synonyms.”

“Aren’t they?”

“If you really believe that then yes. They are. But how can you really let yourself care about someone, anyone, if you’re not vulnerable. And if you do care, is it a weakness?”

“It can be used as one.”

“And who’s using your love against you?”

“No one. Anymore.”

“So, someone has in the past?”

Ash stepped away. Away from his intense eyes. Away from the questions. “I’m not sure I like where this is going.”

“So you’re going to shut down?”

“Yes. You want honesty? Yes. I just shut out the bad stuff until it gets so bad that I have to face it. I’ve had so damn many confrontations in my life and I’m sick of it. I want my life to be simple.”

“Life is never simple. Humans are complex creatures. Lycanthropes even more so. Your life is only difficult if you make it so.”

Ash snorted. “You live one day in my life and tell me it’s not difficult.”

“You’re getting angry. We’ve talked enough.” He turned back to the dishes as if he hadn’t just made her rethink everything.

She lightly touched his shoulder. “I’m not angry at you.”

“I know.”

Ash nodded and was for some reason relieved. It seemed important that he know she wasn’t mad at him. Without another word she picked up a towel and started drying dishes.

The next day they drove into the city. She pulled up to her parents’ normal little house and just sat there.

“Are we going in?”

Ash gave Nicky a wide-eyed stare full of apprehension. “Don’t be in a hurry to go in, Nicky. Save it for getting back out.” Despite the ominous words she got out of the car. It took a few minutes before their knock was answered. A woman about Ash’s size with short-cropped blond hair opened the door. If she was surprised to see her daughter it didn’t show. In fact, her voice held disdain when she said. “I thought you would never come here again.”

“Hello, Clara.”

A man not much taller walked up behind Clara. His long red hair obscured his face. “Well, the wayward child returns.”

“Since when do you refer to me as your child?”

“Did you come here to squabble over terminology?”

“No, Patrick. I guess I didn’t. I have a few questions I would like to ask.”

Clara opened the door a little wider. “I suppose you’d like to come in.”

“Unless you’d like to discuss black magic on the porch, I think that’d be a good idea.”

Her mother didn’t respond. She led them into the house and they settled in the living room. Ash sat across from her parents. Nicky posted himself to the side of his Alpha. Patrick stared hard at him, but spoke to Ash. “Call off your body guard.”

Ash tipped her head to the side and smiled. “It’s natural for him to wanna protect me.”

“Do you feel you need protecting from us?”

“That remains to be seen.”

Clara cleared her throat. “Can we get back on track, please?”

“Good idea. I’ll get right to the down to it.” Ash paraphrased her possession and its after affects. “So I’d like to get these memories removed from my head. Mark seemed to think you’d know where I could start looking.”

“You want our help? Last time you spoke to me you called me a cold heartless bitch.”

“And you told me I was a failed experiment. I think we’re even, Mother. And I use that term VERY loosely.”

“I can’t control your lack of power, girl. I wish I could have. I wasn’t insulting you. Merely telling you the truth.”

“Well, thank you, but the real world is honest enough. I didn’t need to hear it from one person who’s allowed to lie to me for a little while.”

Clara snorted and the gesture reminded Nicky of Ash. “You still buy into love? I figured you’d grown out of that.”

Nicky looked to Ash and was sure only he could see the rage creeping into her features. A nasty smile spread across her face. The hair at the back of Nicky’s neck prickled as he felt power creep from her. Patrick was quick to notice it and shot to his feet. A warm wind that smelled like earth ruffled Ash’s hair and her gaze snapped to her father. “Sit down.” Nicky could almost see a great red and white cat push him back onto the couch. When he was once again immobile she turned her attention to her mother.

“No power, Clara? Then why do I smell fear? It’s all over you. At this point, I think you’re wondering if you were wrong about me. I won’t keep you in suspense any longer.” Ash’s beast lashed out and long deep cuts broke out down the woman’s face. “You were. So will you help me or do I need to persuade you?”

“Get out now.”

“Wrong answer, Mother. You might want to cooperate. Blood’s a bitch to get out of upholstery.”

“Minerva Black.”

“Where can I find her?”

“In the quarter. She owns a shop in the market.”

Ash’s hair settled back into place when the wind died down. “Thank you.” She stood like nothing out of the ordinary had happened. The two people on the couch remained silent as they left. Once outside, Ash leaned heavily on Nicky and handed him the keys.

“What’s wrong?”

She took a few deep breaths before answering. “First time I’ve ever used that much power at once. Drained me. Just don’t wreck my baby.”

Concern was replaced with amusement. If she was threatening him over a car, she’d be fine.

Three days later Ash stomped into the house with Nicky following timidly in her wake. Viggo’s soft voice filtered from the kitchen. “Another dead end?”

Ash flopped down in a chair. “I’m out of options. I don’t have a clue where to look now. I guess it’s time to head back home.”

“You could.”

The way he said that made Ash stop. “Do you know something?"

Viggo shrugged and continued washing paintbrushes in the sink. “Maybe you’ve been looking in the wrong places. You’ve only been searching dark alleys. Have you considered something different?”

“Like white magic?”

“Exactly.”

“I don’t know anything about white magic. All my of experience has been with black.”

“You must experience it for it to exist? What do you have to lose?”

“Nothing I guess. You got a name for me?”

“Illyana Grey. I don’t know that she can help you, but she’ll try.”

“Fine. We’ll try her tomorrow.”

“She lives outside the city. You could go now.”

Ash stood up, her earlier fatigue forgotten. “Great. Let’s go.”

After getting directions they were off. They pulled up to a small building painted lavender. Lights glowed invitingly from within. A sign on the door said she was open for business, so they just walked in. Candles lit the interior and the soft smell of lilac filled the room. A feeling of peace swept over them. “This is fey magic.” Nicky whispered beside her.

A thin brunette came from the back. Her hair was in dozens of braids that swung around her face as she walked. The woman emanated grace and tranquility. Ash suspected the calm feeling of the building wasn’t a spell, but a by product of it’s owner. “Good evening. How can I help you?” The voice was musical and Ash closed her eyes; struck by a vague familiarity.

When she spoke, she whispered, as if she raised her voice it’d break the spell. “I’m looking for Illyana Grey.”

“You have found her.” Illyana gestured to the door she’d come through. “You are not interested in buying pretty pieces of glass. Come with me where we can talk.”

Nicky walked ahead of Ash as if in a trance. Ash followed a little slower. The back room was also lit with candles and felt safe…for lack of a better word. It appeared to be an old fashioned room used for entertaining guests. Ash sat next to Nicky, who stared at Illyana without blinking. She turned her gaze to the other woman. “What are you doing to him?”

It was Nicky that answered. “It’s been so long since I’ve been around fey. The feeling is almost intoxicating.”

Illyana smiled delicately. Everything about the woman seemed delicate. “It can happen sometimes. We’re such a magical people. If we’re not with our kind for long periods it can be quite the thrill when we finally meet up again. I expect it’s even more powerful for a part fey to be near a full-blooded. But I assure you it will pass. Even as we speak the effects will subside.”

Ash nodded and relaxed a little. “If you don’t mind, I’d like to ask you a few questions.”

“Of course. But first I’d like to know a bit about you.”

“I guess that’d be okay.”

Illyana got up and started making tea as she spoke. “Your aura is very hard to read, dear. In places it’s so bright that one almost needs to squint signifying that your heart is good. You also have dense green patches. They make me think of forests and Mother Earth. You are a lycanthrope. Nothing there that worries me. However, there is one spot that feels out of place. Almost like a disease. It’s growing; even now, as I talk to you. I suspect that’s the reason you came to see me?”

Ash could only stammer a yes.

“I won’t ask you how it got there. The story is almost definitely a painful one. If I had to guess I’d say possession by a powerful entity. But you had to know it was there. Why’d you leave it so long?”

“I’ve been looking for answers but all I know is black magic.”

“Such naïve thinking. The line between black and white is not so clearly drawn. The people you have visited before coming here could easily have removed it. If they could see it.”

Both Nicky and Ash wore puzzled expressions so she went on. “They would not truly see the black spot because they were blinded by everything else. At first glance of your aura they shut their eyes to it. Nothing out of the ordinary seemed wrong. So it was ‘have a nice day go find someone else’. Do you understand?”

“Yes. But you can help me, right?”

“Certainly. But you must understand something. My magic works through touch. You must open up your mind completely or risk leaving the other magic there.”

“Okay.” Ash accepted the cup of tea she was offered and sipped slowly.

“Now, you had questions for me?”

“Will you see everything in my mind?”

“Probably. Why does this bother you?”

Ash shrugged and looked away. “I don’t even like everything in there.”

Illyana beckoned Ash to sit beside her. “Let’s begin. Close your eyes and breathe evenly.”

Ash obeyed and felt Illyana’s feather light touch on her temples. It seemed like only seconds before she pulled away. Ash opened and saw Illyana was frowning. “What?”

“It’s strange. I cannot even touch your aura. I don’t think you’re shielding it from me purposefully. But there is a primal part of you that won’t let me near it.”

Ash blinked back tears of frustration. “So close. Can we try again? Please?”

Illyana shook her head. “But there is someone who can heal you.”

“Who?”

“I can’t see his face. You know him. He’s healed you many times throughout your life. But I don’t think you knew about it.”

Realization struck Ash in the chest. “Why can’t you see his face?”

“He’s wearing a mask.”

Ash sat back in shock. “Kane. All this time it’s Kane that could help me.”

Illyana’s head snapped up as Ash spoke. “Tell me about Kane.”

“He practically raised me. I stayed with him until I was old enough to start learning Necromancy.”

“Does he have a brother?”

Ash’s eyebrows drew together. “Yeah. Mark. He performed the rituals of extraction on me. How did you know that?”

“And their father. What of him?”

“Never even knew they had one. What’s going on here?”

“One more question first. Why does Kane wear a mask?”

“He was burned as a child. The house caught fire. He almost didn’t make it out.” Another startling thought occurred to Ash. “He’s fey, isn’t he?”

Illyana nodded. She had tears in her eyes. Her tri-colored aqua, blue, and green eyes. That’s why she seemed familiar. They had the same eyes. As Ash studied the woman she noticed other subtle similarities. “Why do you look like him?”

“Kane is half fey, half vampire.”

“Vampire’s can’t father children.”

“Not can’t. Don’t. Usually. There are magiks you can perform that are very complicated and require a strong partner.”

“Why would you agree to that?”

“I was under mind control. After I had Kane, he let me act as a nursemaid for a few years. But his father sent me away when he caught me trying to steal my son. He was much more powerful than I was. There was no way to fight him. I thought for sure he’d turn Kane into a monster as his older brother was. But he obviously learned compassion somewhere along the way.”

“He never told me any of this.”

“He was too young to remember me. No more than three when I left him with his father.”

“Why haven’t you tried to see him?”

“I had no idea he wasn’t every bit the monster his father was.”

“Well, he’s not. And I think he’d like to meet his mother.”

Illyana sighed. “Go home. You have the answers you were seeking. Tell Kane what I have told you. If he does not hate me you may bring him here.”

Ash stood, ready to be away from Illyana’s pained familiar eyes. “It’s late. Nicky, let’s go.” They drove in silence back to Viggo’s. Ash went straight to her luggage and pulled out her cell phone. She held it in her hand and just sat on the hard wood floor. Nicky came in and crouched in front of her. “What do I say? How do I tell him?”

Nicky plucked the phone from her hand. “In person. However you tell him, it shouldn’t be over the phone.”

“I have no idea how he’ll react. I’m not even sure he knows he’s fey.”

“You’ll figure it out.”

Ash stood and headed for the door. “I’ll be back.” She went outside and breathed deep, already feeling less claustrophobic. She wandered along through the tall grass and gave a yelp of surprise when strong arms pulled her to the side. Viggo’s scent surrounded her, but did nothing to calm her racing heart.

“You almost stepped into a nest of baby gators.”

She ran her hands up and down her arms trying to rid her skin of goose bumps. “So what’s with the creepy man routine?”

His eyes were feral; his grin sinful. “Thrill of fear. Thrill of the hunt.”

“Hunt? I am by no means prey.”

He stalked around her, making her feel like she was exactly that. “Are you so sure? Who would win a game of cat and mouse? The distraught Alpha in unfamiliar territory? Or the crazy recluse who’s hunted this land for years?”

“Viggo? What’s gotten into you?”

He didn’t answer. He looked at her through a curtain of hair.

“You’re starting to scare me.”

“Responses are the most honest when adrenaline is pumping. I’ll give you an example. The cleverly disguised innuendos are a cover up. You want me, yes. But you’re unsure. Should you? Shouldn’t you? I’m not of your pard. How would that make your mate feel? But what if the decision is taken out of your hands? How do you react when someone else is in control? Let’s find out.” With lightning quick moves he pinned her against a tree.

“Are we going to fight?” Ash’s voice was breathless with excitement.

“No more of your questions.” He framed her face in a strong grip and tilted her head back. His kiss was rough; making her feel helpless. She dug her fingernails into his arms but he didn’t let go. As his tongue swept through her mouth his knee separated her legs. He planted his hips between her thighs and ground them against her. He finally released her mouth and he gasped.

“Leave it to you to even be weird about sex.”

“You try so hard to appear human. You even subdue the powers you gained from being Alpha. Sex should be primal; the joining of two bestial creatures.” He set her down as he was speaking.

Ash glanced toward the house and then gave him a meaningful look. “Just two?” Then she tore off through the weeds. As she ran she could hear him thundering behind her. They could both have been more stealth but this wasn’t about survival. Ash made it to the house first and bolted through the door. She didn’t stop until she was in the bedroom with Nicky. She pounced on the bed and threw the book he was reading aside. She grinned at his startled look and kissed him just as Viggo came in. They broke apart and stared at him. He’d shed his shirt somewhere along the way. Ash crawled to the edge of the bed and sat back on her knees. She whipped her shirt over her head and tossed it on Nicky’s forgotten book.

“How long has it been, Viggo? You gone all feral cause you can’t control it?”

Viggo fisted a hand in her hair and pulled her head back again. “What’d I say about questions?”

Nicky misinterpreted the situation and before anyone could react, he had a blade at Viggo’s throat. “Remove your hands from my Alpha.”

Ash spoke before things got bloody. “He’s not hurting me, Nicky. Put the knife away.”

He did as she asked but kept a wary eye on Viggo. “You’ll have to play nicer with Nicky. He’s not as open to new things as I am.”

“I will make an effort to be gentle with him. But make no mistake. I am in control tonight.”

“I’ll make an effort to remember that.”

“Good. Now finish undressing. Both of you.” He released Ash’s hair and she began stripping. Nicky, however, didn’t move.

“I only take orders from my Alpha and Micha.”

Viggo gave him a heated look. “We can work around that.”

Ash took the hint and began tugging at Nicky’s clothes. “If anything makes you uncomfortable let me know.”

Viggo ran his fingers through Nicky’s hair. “I really will try to be gentle with you. You’re so strong, yet fragile at the same time.”

“My strength has nothing to do with deep rooted fears. You will only be the third person I’ve chosen in five years. Ash is the most recent and that was just last week.”

It seemed that Viggo understood exactly what Nicky couldn’t say. He softly traced his index finger down Nicky’s cheek. “Kiss me.”

Nicky hesitated like he’d refuse, but finally he placed his mouth on Viggo’s. He let Nicky control the kiss only running his hands down Nicky’s chest. He broke the kiss and spoke to Ash. “Help him undress.”

Ash finally pulled Nicky’s shirt off and went for his pants. When he was naked she sat back and waited. Viggo kept his attention on Nicky. “I would like to test the limits of your comfort zone. Would you let me?”

Nicky looked like he was going to protest but Viggo interrupted. “You can stop me any time. Being in someone else’s control is not always a bad thing. Not everyone abuses control. I can make it a pleasurable experience for all of us. All I ask is that you trust me.” Nicky finally nodded his head slowly. “Thank you. Now, I understand you’d be more comfortable with Ash, so you two play a bit so you can relax.”

Ash grinned and crawled up Nicky’s body. She sighed as he ran his hands over her back and around her rib cage to her chest. She straddled his waist and bend down so he could reach her breasts. He took one nipple into his mouth while gently plucking the other with his fingers. Viggo swept her hair back and nibbled at her neck. Too soon, he pulled her off of Nicky and set her down in front of him. He placed her hands on the waistband of his jeans. She didn’t have to be told what to do. She quickly rid him of his pants and started to sink to her knees, but he stopped her. “Not you. Him.”

Nicky looked startled but moved off the bed. Ash stepped aside. Nicky went to his knees and after a last moment of hesitation took Viggo into his mouth. Ash leaned back against the wall to watch. Viggo tangled his fingers in Nicky’s hair, setting the rhythm. He kept switching his gaze back and forth between Ash and Nicky. His voice was raspy when he spoke. “You step into the submissive role easily. But what about dominating? That calm exterior has to be broken sometimes. Don’t you ever want to lose control?”

Nicky moaned around Viggo’s flesh.

“Do it then.” He pulled Nicky’s head away from him. “Show us your aggressive side.”

Nicky looked at Ash as if to ask permission. “Stop. She wouldn’t be in this room if she were playing Alpha tonight. Don’t ask. Just do it.”

Nicky stalked to her and lifted her up. She wrapped her legs around his hips; keeping her shoulders against the wall for support. She cried out when he entered her, not quite ready for it. But he didn’t stop. He thrust savagely into her until his back arched and he buried his face in her neck. He gently kissed her neck and let her slide to the floor. Ash turned to find Viggo on the bed watching them. Not quite satisfied yet, she crawled to him. “What now?”

“She wants hers, does she? The fey wasn’t enough?”

Ash grinned ferally. “My beautiful Nicky was plenty. But tonight I’m feeling greedy.”

Viggo grasped her hips and guided her onto him. “You’re putting me in a position of dominance?”

“If you think you’re in control because you’re on top, you’re mistaken.” His grip on her was tight so she couldn’t move if he didn’t want her to. He flexed his hips slightly and made her gasp but then didn’t move. “Control is an illusion.” The muscles in his arms contracted as he lifted her up, almost completely off of him and let her drop. Ash gave a yelp of half pain, half pleasure. He repeated the movement several times, each time with less space between drops. Soon he was slamming her onto him. Ash clawed at his chest, sounds continually coming from her. She felt the start of an orgasm when he stopped. She nearly sobbed in frustration. “Still feel in control?”

She just shook her head.

“Do you want to come?”

She nodded vigorously.

He loosened his grip on her hips and thrust up into her. She braced her hand on his chest and rode him until she screamed. She collapsed against him and he allowed her time to catch her breath. When she calmed a bit she noticed he was still hard inside her. She sat up with a smile. Apparently the night had just begun.

Ash stretched and cracked her eyes against the late afternoon sun pouring through the window. Nicky groaned beside her and lifted his head. “What time is it?”

“Time to hit the road probably.”

“Where’s Viggo?”

Ash looked around but didn’t see him. “I dunno. He’ll probably come back before we have to leave.”

But Viggo still hadn’t returned by the time they’d showered and loaded the car. “We need to leave soon. We have to go through the city to get to the highway. It’s almost dark.”

“Yeah.” Nicky agreed. “You’re right.”

They got in the car and spotted a long rolled up canvas with a note on top. Ash picked up the paper and read aloud.

“Two jewels such as yourselves are beautiful and hard to come by. If your journey through life brings you to the bayou again I’ll be waiting.”

Nicky unrolled the canvas and gasped. It was a painted portrait of the sketch Viggo had made of them their first night. He even painted himself by the window, drawing them. The likenesses were perfect.

“We’ll find a frame for it when we get home.”

Nicky nodded and carefully rolled it back up. With one last look at the house they headed for home.

When they reached the house Ash just pulled up to the front door. “Tell everyone I’ll be back later.”

“Don’t you want to take a nap? You drove the whole way.”

“I have to see Kane.”

Nicky nodded and got out. He knew she wouldn’t be persuaded to put it off any longer. He grabbed his bags and she left.

Ash was once again led to Marks office. She didn’t take a seat but paced in front of him. “Did you have a good trip?”

“It was informative.”

“I don’t understand why you’re here, though. I told you I couldn’t heal you.”

She stopped pacing and stared at him. “No. But someone in this house can.”

A quick flash of some emotion flashed in Mark’s eyes, but he quickly covered it up.

“You knew. This whole time, you knew. Didn’t you?”

“Yes.”

“Why didn’t you tell me?”

“I knew Kane used to have certain healing powers but I had no idea he’d be able to fix you. I don’t think he even knows how powerful he could be.”

“I’m gonna go find him.” She was almost to the door when Mark spoke again.

“Maybe you should take him with you, Ash. He doesn’t belong here. He hasn’t for a long time.”

Ash laughed without humor. “You blame me, don’t you? He was petty much a monster before you pushed me off on him. That’s when you figured out he could heal as well as hurt. That’s why he doesn’t belong here. He’s not monster enough.”

“Something like that.”

“I won’t tell him his own brother doesn’t want him here. But if he’ll come with me, I’ll take him.”

“Your house is turning into a pound, Ash. Taking in every stray you come across.”

Ash opened the door and stepped through. “I always knew you could be a bastard, Mark.”

“Don’t let your fuzzy feelings for him fool you, child. He is dangerous and unpredictable.”

“As am I. And we’ve always gotten along perfectly.” Ash closed the door with a thud. She went back to her favorite part of the house. Her first real home. By reflex she started to just walk in, but found the door locked. She knocked hard, hoping he wasn’t asleep. “Kane? It’s Ash. Can I come in?”

The door opened and she walked past him into the dim interior. He closed and locked the door behind her. “It’s sure been awhile since I’ve been in here. You haven’t changed anything.”

“It’s good to see you healthy again.”

“Uh, yeah. That’s kind of why I’m here.”

“What’s wrong?”

Ash looked up at him trying to see his eyes. “Could you take the mask off?”

He slipped it over his head and she nodded as if reassuring herself of something. “Kane, how much do you know about your parents?”

“Why?”

“Do you know you’re half fey?” He nodded. “And the other half?”

He sat down on the bed. “I was hoping you’d never find out. Did Mark tell you?”

“No. Someone in New Orleans tried to help me but couldn’t. She said you could, though. That you’ve healed me several times throughout my life.”

“How did she know about my parents?”

“Her name is Illyana Grey, Kane.”

His face hardened. “I had no idea she was still alive.”

“So you know who she is?”

“Yes. What else did she tell you?”

“That you’re the only one who could heal me. I trust you enough to let you past my beast into my aura. You healed my scars, didn’t you?”

“Not intentionally. When you woke up screaming that first time I only had one thought. Make it stop. I must’ve healed your back by accident.”

“You know I wouldn’t ask unless I had to. You can say no.”

“I’ve never been able to refuse you anything.” He placed his hands on her cheeks and closed his eyes. Ash thought for sure it hadn’t worked because she felt nothing. But after a minute, Kane opened his eyes.

“That’s it?”

“Yes. You shouldn’t get any more memories.”

Ash sat down next to him. “Mark knows for sure now.”

Kane only nodded.

“Will you come with me?”

“He doesn’t want me here.”

She felt tears sting her eyes. “That’s not the reason I want you to come home with me.”

“Then why?”

“If something happens to me where I can’t shift, you could be my band aid.”

“You’ve never been selfish. Why start now?”

“Kane, you’re not happy here. You’ve never been.”

“And what makes you think I’d be happy there? Why would your cats accept me?”

“Because we’re all different. You won’t stand out that much. Well, okay, sheer size you will. But no one will treat you like a freak. And no one will hate your for your powers.”

“Let me think about it, Ash.”

“Okay. Sure. You know how to reach me.”

He nodded and stood. “Go get some sleep. You look like hell.”

“Well at least I look how I feel. Think about what I said Kane.” Ash thought a minute and played one more card. “It would really make me happy if you’d come live with us. Then I’d have everyone I care for with me.”

The look he gave her said he knew what she was up to. “I’ll take that into consideration.”

When Ash finally made it home an empty house greeted her. She walked out back and noticed the smell of burning wood. She found Rob a good ways back into the property by a large smoldering pile of leaves and branches. “Having a bon fire without me?”

“Apparently our rogue friend is an arson.”

“He’s here? What’re you doing just standing around?”

“Waiting for you.”

“So let’s go.” They tore off through the woods together. Ash heard a commotion off to her right and veered that way. Through the trees she saw a blond man she didn’t recognize pinning Christian to the ground. The stranger turned his head to give her a mischievous grin and kissed Christian hard on the lips and fled. Ash pulled him to his feet while Rob thundered past.

“What the hell is wrong with you? Why didn’t you grab him?”

“He startled me.”

Ash pushed Christian away. “Go back to the house. Now.”

“Ash, I can help.”

“Help what? Let him get away again? No thanks. Now go.”

A few people were gathering and Rob came jogging back shaking his head. “He’s gone.”

A blond streak tackled Christian’s retreating back with a feline scream. “Adam, NO!”

Adam was pounding Christian’s face into the ground. “You just keep fucking shit up, don’t you?”

Ash finally reached them and yanked Adam away. “Stop it. What did I tell you?”

“Shouldn’t you be mad at him? If he wasn’t playing kissy face with the rogue we’d have him by now. But some things never change, I guess. Couldn’t keep it in his pants then, why should I think he’d do it now?”

“I’d stop speaking if I were you, Adam. You might say some things you’ll wish you hadn’t.”

“There are a few things I wish had never happened. All of them years ago.”

“Go cool off. Right now. Christian, I thought I told you to get in the house.”

Both men walked in separate directions. “Good job everyone. We’ll get him next time. And that’s about the extent of my pep talk this time. I’m too fucking tired for more.”

They made their way into the house and Ash trudged wearily up the stairs. Jeff, Trish, and Shannon joined her, cuddling against her as they slept.

When Ash woke only Shannon was still in bed. She slowly rolled out, trying not to disturb him. After a quick shower she dressed and went downstairs. She found Heather alone in the living room flipping through channels. “Where is everybody?”

“Amy is shopping with Trish. Adam’s in his room being bitchy. Jeff’s buying hair dye. Shawn’s in his room with someone, I’m not sure who. Rob’s in the gym with Christian. Nicky and Micha went out, didn’t say where. I haven’t seen Drew, which probably means he’s the one with Shawn. Did I leave anyone out?”

“Damn, sugar. I’ll just ask you next time I can’t find someone.”

Heather continued to aimlessly flip channels.

“I’ve got a kinda big job I’ll need some help with. You interested?”

“What kind of job?”

“We might be getting a new addition to the house. I’d like to make him feel welcome by having a room specially decorated.”

“I guess.”

Ash grabbed her by the hand. “Stop moping and come with me.”

“So who’s gonna come live with us?”

“A very old friend.” They went into the office and plopped in front of the computer. “I’m thinking mostly red and black stuff. He likes those two colors.”

“Is he a wereleopard?”

“Half vampire half fey. But he’s safe. He practically raised me.”

“Oh.”

They were still at it several hours later when Trish and Amy found them. Trish wrapped her arms around Ash’s shoulders from behind. “There you are. Thought I’d lost ya.”

Ash patted her arm and absentmindedly mumbled. “Found me.”

Amy leaned over Heather to see the computer. “What’re you guys doing anyway?”

“Decorating a room for Kane. How was shopping?” Amy started telling her about her new purchases when Heather squealed and pointed. “That’s it, Ash. It’s perfect.”

“Were you even listening to me?”

“Yeah sure Amy. What were you saying?”

“Never mind.”

Trish tugged on Amy’s arm. “Come on. They’re hopeless. I wanna try on that blue tank you bought anyway.”

The other two girls didn’t even notice they’d left.

The next day at lunch Ash and Heather were pouring over catalogs and ignoring everyone else’s existence. Ash finally sat back. “I think it’s time to start hitting shops around here.”

“Yeah. I don’t think we’re gonna get anything else from catalogs.”

They returned several hours later and closed themselves off in what would be Kane’s room. The walls got painted black with red trim. A large wooden bookshelf now had several hard backs on it. They’d found a few dark abstract pictures and hung them up.

Heather yawned and stretched. “It’s almost four a.m.”

“You can go to bed. I have a few more things I wanna do.”

“Okay. I’ll see you tomorrow. Or later today actually.”

“Yeah. Thanks for all the help.”

“No problem.”

Ash was adding more books and rearranging the pictures when Heather came back in. Her eyes were puffy with tears. “What? What happened?”

“I dunno. It’s Adam.”

“Is he hurt?”

“No. He, he yelled at me. All I did was go in his room. He was standing by the window. I thought he’d be asleep. But he wasn’t and he yelled at me to get out. I didn’t do anything, Ash. I don’t understand what’s wrong with him. And his eyes. They were just dead. It’s like he’s a completely changed person.”

“Shh.” Ash hugged her and tried to calm her down. “It’s okay.”

“Can you try to talk to him?”

“It won’t do any good, sugar. I’ve already tried. Where’s Amy?”

“Asleep in her room. I didn’t want to wake her up.”

“Come with me. I know what’ll make you feel better.” Ash led the still sniffling Heather to the kitchen. She pulled a pint of chocolate and vanilla ice cream from the freezer and two spoons. “This always worked for me.”

“Really?”

“Really. Whenever I was upset Kane would break out the ice cream. I’m telling you, the cure for cancer is hidden somewhere within its frozen depths.”

Heather smiled a little and dug into the chocolate. “What’s going on with him, Ash?”

“I really wish I could tell you. But if Adam found out, it'd only make the situation worse.”

“He started acting like this after Christian came into the house.”

“Yes he did.”

“So his problems have something do to with Christian?”

“That’d be a good guess.”

“But you can’t tell me why?”

“Nope.”

“Adam said once that Christian was a friend turned enemy.”

“Yep.”

“You don’t seem too fond of him either.”

“Nope.”

“Are one word answers all I’m gonna get?”

“Yep.” Ash gave her a sympathetic smile. “Get some sleep.”

“Yeah. That’ll probably help.”

“I’ll try to talk to Adam in the morning.”

“Okay. Thanks Ash.”

After cleaning up Ash, too, headed off to bed.

The huge bed they’d ordered arrived the next day. Ash and Heather again shut themselves up and put it together. They then added black sheets, red pillowcases, and a red and black leopard print comforter. They were admiring their handiwork when a commotion outside caught their attention. They ran to the living room where the fur had hit the fan.

Hair was flying everywhere as Adam and Christian fought on the floor. Ash finally lost it. “That’s it.” She grabbed a handful of Adam’s hair and jerked him to his feet. Christian didn’t have long enough hair to get a hold of, so she got the back of his neck. “If you two wanna kill each other so bad, do it outside.” She pulled them out the door and threw them away from her hard enough to rattle the trees they landed against.

“There. Now have at it.” Neither moved. “Come on. What’re you waiting for? You don’t have anything to lose.” She jabbed a finger at Christian’s chest. “You’ve been walking around like an injured puppy since you got here. You’re acting like you did nothing wrong and the whole fucking world’s against you.” She then turned on Adam. “And you! You’ve got both your girls scared shitless. Neither of them want anything to do with you. So come on. Put all of us out of our misery and fucking end it!”

“Do we mean so little to you now, Ash?” Christian did indeed sound like a wounded puppy.

“I’m not getting in this discussion with you. I’m sick of all the wounded pride bull shit. You both fucked up. Now either fight it out or talk it out. Either way, don’t come back in the house without resolving something.” She walked away, leaving them staring after her.

It was a very long time before Adam walked into the house. Alone. Ash had told everyone to make themselves scarce, so she was by herself in the living room. Her icy voice floated to him in the darkness. “Took you this long? You’re slipping.”

“I didn’t kill him. And we did reach an agreement. But I don’t think you’re gonna like it.”

“By all means, tell me your plan.”

“We can’t be under the same roof and not kill each other. He’s still young. He needs to be here.”

“So you’re running away again, huh Adam? You just gonna run from him your whole life?”

“If I have to, yes. Ash, you of all people should know what I’m capable of. Christian damn near made me revert back to that.”

“So you’re gonna let your girls hate you? Think you’re a coward?”

Emotion finally flashed in Adam’s eyes. “Better them think me a coward than see me like I was. Ash, I could feel myself slipping away to the cold static place where I don’t feel anything. I’d rather Heather and Amy hate me than see me like that.”

“How very noble of you. But they’ve already had a glimpse of that side of you firsthand. At least Amy has.”

“What?”

“Apparently when you jumped Christian you knocked Amy over to get to him.”

“Is she okay?”

“She will be. Heather’s with her.”

Adam started for the stairs.

“I wouldn’t if I were you. Drew had to physically restrain Heather from going after you when she found out how Amy got at least three cracked ribs.”

He flinched. “I know what you’re doing.”

“And what’s that?”

“Trying to make me feel.”

Ash shot to her feet and stalked up to him. “Yes, dammit. You need to feel. Guilt. Shame. Love. Whatever. You need to feel something. Those two love you now, but you know how quickly that can turn into hate.”

“And what about you? Do you hate me?”

“Not yet. Right now I’m bordering on apathy. I know Christian hurt you. But I also know you hurt him. You were so secretive about your whole life. We never knew if you were alive or dead when you’d stay gone for days at a time.”

“So now you’re taking his side?”

“It’s not about sides, Adam. Or loyalties. And it’s taken me a long time to realize that. How can I hate Christian for hurting you when I don’t hate you for hurting him?” Ash shook her head and walked past him. She paused with one foot on the bottom stair. “Pack your shit if you need to, Adam. Run away if that’s your solution. You know you’ll be welcome back if you want. Or maybe you won’t. Maybe I’ll leave it up to Heather and Amy. Speaking of which, I think I’m gonna go tell them a bedtime story.”

Adam reacted without thinking. He grabbed her arm. “Don’t.”

“Don’t what, Adam? Don’t tell them that you and Christian were lovers? Or should they be kept in the dark about the night you left Christian alone for three hours and he got way too drunk waiting for you? Or perhaps it’s the part about you losing it when you found him with someone else?”

A low growl trickled from his throat. “Stop it.”

Ash stepped toe-to-toe with him and glared. “Are you gonna fight me?” He turned his face to the side but Ash jerked it back around. “I think I’ve figured it out. You don’t want them to know how crazy jealous you can be.”

His grip on her tightened.

“Oh. I’m pissin’ you off now, aren’t I? Well, if you’re gonna loose your temper, Adam, do it with someone who can take it. Christian’s always been weaker than you. No fun pushin’ him around. Me, though, I’ll fight back. So come on, then. You wanna fight, so fight me.”

Adam stared past her head, jaws firmly set. And let her go.

“I guess I was right. You are a coward, Adam. Maybe you always have been.” She was just turning away when he pounced. She dodged to the side and used his own momentum to knock him down. “You really are slipping.”

“I said shut up.” He leaped to his feet and slammed his shoulder into her stomach. Ash had expected that and went limp. She tucked her head up in time to avoid knocking herself out.

“So predictable. You used to be better at this shit.”

He slapped her open handed. Ash gasped and almost choked on blood. It flooded her mouth and she could feel it gushing from her nose. She spit some on the floor. “Feel better yet?”

He scrambled away from her and she slowly rose. “I can take the kind of beating you can give. Most people can’t. You’re a ticking time bomb and I’d rather catch the explosion than have someone weaker do it.”

“I’m not gonna fight you anymore.” His voice had gone back to dead calm.

People started trickling in and Jeff pushed his way to the front. “What the hell is going on here?”

Ash wiped some of the blood from her face and spoke to Adam. “If you really want to leave, fine. But you will still be expected to be present at all pard meetings.”

“Ash, you know I can’t do that.” Adam noticed people moving around. Nicky stood beside Ash as if ready to protect her. Rob stood a little behind Jeff, awaiting orders. He expected Ash to respond, but instead it was Jeff.

“If you’re not with us, you’re against us. You have disrespected your Alpha among other cats in the house. You are hereby stripped of the title Enforcer, Second in Command, and your Status.”

Rob cracked his knuckles menacingly. “If he doesn’t have status...”

“That’s right. Adam, you’re now a rogue in a pard house. You’d better just go get in your car and leave. If I catch you in St. Louis you will be treated as a threat. You’re lucky I’m even giving you a chance to run.”

Adam hesitated when he saw Heather and Amy. Amy’s face was bruised and Heather had a protective arm around her shoulders. He wanted to apologize but Nicky growled when he stepped toward them.

“You have laid violent hands on the one who protects us. Do not come closer to any of us or I will kill you.”

Adam finally looked back to Ash. “You really gonna let him do this?”

“As Alpha Male it’s his right. Besides, Adam, you left us no choice. I goaded you into the fight to snap you back to reality. But it obviously didn’t work. I gave you options.”

“But the right to choose has been removed from him.” Jeff cut in. “He made his choice when he bloodied his Alpha.” He gestured at Rob who started for Adam.

“Fine. I’ll go.” He didn’t look at anybody as he turned and left the house.

Ash turned and walked from the room without another word. Jeff followed closely. “You mad at me now?”

“I don’t know.”

“How can you not know if you’re mad?”

“I am mad, Jeff. I just don’t know who to be mad at. I wish you had discussed it with me before you stripped him of status.”

“When were we supposed to talk about it? While he was beating the shit out of you? I didn’t think that was the best time.”

“No, it wasn’t. None of us should’ve let the situation get that far. But I guess it’s too late now. And that’s not how I thought things would end up. I guess I’m more disappointed that I let things go this far.”

“You can’t blame yourself.”

“Why the hell not? I should’ve known they couldn’t coexist without problems.”

“Why? Why won’t you tell any of us?”

“I guess it doesn’t matter any more. You may have already figured part of it out. Adam and Christian were lovers. Adam stood Christian up for like the 15th time and Christian found someone else to entertain him. When Adam found out he wanted to prove he didn’t need Christian. Wanted to make him hurt too. So he found a willing female who had a dirty little secret.”

“Gabrielle.”

“Exactly. He never forgave Christian. And of course he expected me not to.”

“So you were stuck in the middle.”

Ash snorted. “In more ways than one.”

“You three were together?”

“Yeah. A couple of times.”

“What about Trish?”

“She knew. I told her I didn’t believe in monogamous relationships.”

“Wow. So you’ve always been...uh...open with sharing yourself?”

Ash’s face hardened. “Find some where else to sleep, Jeff.” She quickly walked into her room and slammed the door in his face. She took a quick shower and wasn’t surprised to see Trish sitting on her bed after.

“You okay?”

“Yeah.” Ash got under the covers and laid down.

“Wanna talk?”

“Not now. Maybe not ever. I don’t know. If anyone asks you can tell them the story. In fact, it’d probably be a good idea to explain to Heather and Amy why all this happened.”

“I’ll talk to them tomorrow.” She laid next to Ash. “For now, I just wanna be next to you.”

“I’m really fine, Trish. I don’t need you to baby-sit me. I’m not gonna go crazy or anything.”

“I know you won’t.” She snuggled closer to Ash. “I just like being close to you.”

Ash managed to avoid Jeff for most of the following day. Shannon was helping her clean up the kitchen when Jeff finally cornered her. “I just heard the strangest thing, Ash.”

She gave him the sweetest smile she could fake. “What’s that?”

“Why’d you put our strongest cats on high alert?”

“Because I know what Adam’s capable of.”

“And I don’t?”

She gave him a long stare. “No. You don’t. You’ve never seen him shut down completely, Jeff. He doesn’t feel. He just reacts. He could slip in here and slaughter most of us in our sleep.”

“Adam wouldn’t do that.”

“Not the Adam you know. But he’s a true sociopath. He can shut everything off and operate on pure instinct. And right now his instinct will be to lash out at what hurt him. US.”

“And I suppose this is my fault, huh?”

“You said it. Not me.”

“That’s what you’re thinking.”

“Don’t tell me what I’m thinking, Jeff. I don’t wanna talk about this, okay?”

“No. Not okay. You’re Alpha. You have to deal with the difficult decisions too. Adam was my friend. I may never have fucked him, but he was still my friend.”

“Keep talking, Jeff. You’re just digging the hole deeper.”

The doorbell echoed loudly through the house and Shannon hurried to answer it. Ash continued as if nothing had interrupted her. “Why are you so upset I slept with him? You didn’t mind my view on monogamy when it was you in my bed with two other people.”

“Because I didn’t know about it Ash.”

“Fine then. Tell me every single person you’ve fucked, Jeff. I want a fucking list.”

“That’s different. You don’t know all those people personally. I knew Adam.”

“You didn’t get upset about Viggo. You don’t know him. And if we’re playing this game, you also failed to mention Clayton. I knew him.”

Jeff looked as though he’d been slapped. “You said you’d never mention that to me again.”

“Dammit, Jeff. You’re throwing all this emotional ammunition at me. I just can’t deal with it.”

“Uh, Ash?”

She ignored Shannon’s small voice from the doorway. “I can’t handle you getting jealous and having to tell Nicky to murder one of my best friends on sight. I can’t do it all at once. Only one major life-changing crisis at a time.”

“Uh...Ash?”

“WHAT SHANNON?”

“You have a visitor.”

“Tell them I’m busy.”

“Um, if you don’t mind to terribly, could you tell him? He’s kinda scary.”

Ash slammed a cabinet closed. “Fine.” She stormed into the foyer and stopped dead. Tears of relief flooded her eyes so that her visitor blurred. “You came.”

Kane cocked his head to the side and gave her a puzzled look. “Why’re you crying?”

She wiped a hand across her eyes and shook her head. “It’s not important. I’m just glad you’re here. Let me show you your room.”

He followed her into the room farthest from everyone else’s. When she opened the door he looked around. “It’s almost exactly like the other room.”

“It’s smaller. And you don’t have your own bathroom but I did paint the window black so it’d be dark while you’re sleeping.”

“It’s perfect, Ash.” He went to the bookshelf and glanced over the titles. “I haven’t read any of these. Thank you.”

“I wanted to make sure you’d have stuff to keep you busy. You know, when all us energetic wereleopards piss you off.”

“So the pard was okay with me being here?” Ash stared sheepishly at her feet. “You didn’t tell them.”

“A lot’s happened. I kinda forgot.”

“Then how do you know they’ll accept my presence?”

“Give me ten minutes and I’ll get everyone together.” Ash went room to room telling everyone to meet in the living room. When she got to Heather’s she paused and took a deep breath. She opened the door a crack and smiled. The two girls were cuddled up to a fully clothed Shawn. She opened the door wider and they all looked up. She smirked at Shawn, who was blushing slightly. “Having a sweet moment?”

“Yeah. Just don’t tell anybody.”

Heather purred contentedly. “He stayed with us all night as a cat.”

Shawn was starting to look grumpy so Ash changed the subject. “Amy, if you’re feeling up to it, we’re having a meeting.”

“As long as you don’t expect me to do jumping jacks I’ll be fine.”

“No. Just talking. Shouldn’t be too strenuous. And Shawn, my lips are sealed. As far as I know, you’re still a slut.”

“Thank you. Got my reputation to think about, ya know.”

Ash left and went to find Trish. She was in their room reading. “Hey.”

“Hey. What’cha doing?”

“Getting everyone together for a meeting. But first we have some long unfinished business to take care of.”

Trish gave her a puzzled look but followed her to Kane’s room. Ash paused outside and looked slightly nervous. “A while ago I was taking you to meet a very special person, but we got side tracked. Well, he’s here now, hopefully to stay. And I want you to meet him first.” Ash opened the door and led her in by the hand. “Baby, this is Kane. Kane, this is Trish. The girl you always heard so much about.”

Kane offered his hand, which Trish accepted. “You were very special to Ash.”

“She still is.”

Trish had tears in her eyes. “Thank you.”

Kane nodded. “Are we ready?”

“Yeah. Let’s go.” Ash laced her fingers with Trish’s and they went to the living room. No one said a word when they saw Kane. Ash explained who he was and why he’d be an asset to the pard. “Any objections?” Silence. “Well, great then. Meeting over.” She turned to Kane. “I told you it’d be fine. Now, if you want I can give you a tour of the house.”

“I can figure it out on my own.”

“Okay. If you need anything, just ask someone.”

“Sure. I’m gonna finish getting settled in.”

Ash and Trish plopped down on a couch together. A couple of people had questions about Kane. Shannon was the first to speak up. “Is he dangerous?”

“No more than we are.”

“Why does he wear that mask?” That from Rob.

“He was in a house fire as a kid. He won’t let anyone see the scars.”

“Why doesn’t he just heal himself?”

“I don’t know, Rob. Maybe he can’t. If he could, I think he’d have done it by now.”

When everyone had started talking amongst themselves Jeff moved to sit on the arm of the couch. “I don’t think we should fight right now.”

“We aren’t. Unless you wanna start something.”

“I didn’t mean right this second, Ash. I meant now’s not a great time for the Alphas to not get along. There’s too much changing.”

“That’s not a good enough reason to kiss and make up, Jeff.”

“Would it help if I said I love you?”

Ash stood and pulled Trish up with her. “I love you too, Jeff. You’re just not my favorite person right now.” Her and Trish left and went upstairs. Once they were in the bedroom Ash smiled. “What’d you think of him?”

“Kane? I dunno yet. But it must have been interesting growing up with him.”

“Very. I’m glad you finally got to meet him.”

“Me too.”

“I’m feeling better already. Kane’s always had that effect. As long as he’s here, I can deal. Plus I feel safer having him around.”

Trish pulled two long sleep shirts from a drawer and handed one to Ash. “Thank you, baby.”

She stopped and smiled at Ash. “It’s been a long time since you called me baby. You did it in Kane’s room too. You used to call me that all the time.”

Ash slipped into the shirt and shrugged. “Should I stop?”

“No. I like it. I always have.”

“Good.” Ash stalked to her and held both her hands. “I’d like to say something sweet, but I’m at a loss right now. On one hand I’m so happy that the pard accepted Kane, but there’s still the Adam thing.”

“We’ll get through it, Ash. And who knows. Maybe he’ll come around.”

“Yeah. Maybe.” But Ash looked doubtful so they dropped the subject and went to bed. Ash lay restless for a while and finally got up. After making a quick pit stop she knocked on Kane’s door. When he called for her to enter she opened the door. “Hey. Can’t sleep.”

“Is something wrong?”

She pulled a pint of ice cream from behind her back. He scooted over on the bed. “Come here.” She climbed up beside him and they ate the dessert in silence for a while. “You know, Ash, I thought you’d outgrown this.”

“Some things are too good to outgrow.”

“Do you want to talk about what’s bothering you?”

“Not really.”

“Okay.” After the ice cream was gone, he wrapped an arm around her and went back to reading, this time out loud. Ash wound a curly piece of his hair around her finger like she’d done as a child. In no time she was asleep. Kane slipped out of bed quietly a few hours later. He restlessly prowled the house, ending up in the basement gym. Rob was already there. He had each foot propped on a chair doing the splits in mid air. His eyes were closed as if in deep concentration. Kane cleared his throat to announce his presence. Rob looked at him with a flash of surprise. “Oh, hey. You’re up early.”

“I don’t sleep much.”

“That’s cool. I like to get down here early before everyone else does.” He shifted his weight forward into a roll and came up to his feet in one fluid motion. “No one likes to work out with me.”

“Why?”

“I get carried away and usually end up accidentally hurting someone.”

“I’ll work out with you.”

“Really? You sure?”

“You won’t hurt me.”

“Don’t be so sure.” Rob bounced around the larger man, gauging where to aim his attack. Finally deciding he tried a roundhouse kick and was shocked when Kane batted his foot away easily. Rob regained his balance and smiled appreciatively. “Not bad. I went easy on you.”

“Don’t.”

“You asked for it.” Rob executed a flurry of high kicks, which Kane dodged or blocked. A little while later, he called a time out. “You’re really good.”

“So are you.”

Rob wiped sweat from his face with a towel. “Want to get some breakfast? Everyone should be up by now.”

“It doesn’t matter.”

Ash gave them a funny look when they emerged in the kitchen. “Having fun, boys?”

Kane grunted in response.

“If you break him, you’ll have to fix him.”

He nodded.

“Hey, he won’t break me. I can hold my own. In fact, I did hold my own, thank you.”

“Sure you did, sugar.” Ash patted his cheek. “Did he even try to hit you?”

Rob looked sullen. “Well, no. But I almost got him a couple of times.”

“Okay. Why don’t you grab a plate?" She returned to the bacon she was cooking. Drew stood beside her making omelets.

“So, Ash. I don’t know if now’s the perfect time to bring this up, but we need to have a second to Alpha Male.”

Ash stiffened but nodded. “You’re right. We also need an Enforcer. Jeff and I will choose who gets that but second is fought out.” They made their plates and sat down with the rest of the pard. “Not all males need to fight. Only those interested in possibly running the pard.”

Kane spoke up from the breakfast bar where he was hovering. “Shouldn’t the chain of dominance already have been established?”

“Yes. But nobody has fought for dominance since we’ve had new cats come in. And no one questioned Adam’s dominance when he was here.”

Heather and Amy both glanced away.

“I’m sorry, girls. I know this is all really hard on you.”

Amy shook her head. “Not as much as it would’ve been a few weeks ago. To be honest, now that he’s gone it’s a lot easier than it was after he went all bitchy. We don’t have to worry about what’ll piss him off.”

“Great. So now we need to decide who wants to fight. Drew, since you brought it up, I’m assuming you do.”

“Yeah. As long as I don’t have to fight Nicky again.” He gave the smaller man a sly smile.

Nicky laughed softly. “I won’t be participating. I have no desire to be Alpha.”

Drew heaved a mock sigh of relief. “Then count me in.”

“Yeah, me too, man. I think I can kick Drew’s ass.” Rob said in a serious voice.

“Anyone else? So I guess that settles it.”

Drew stood and began clearing dishes. “When do we fight?”

“Tonight. We’ll meet outside at dusk. That should give both of you time to prepare.”

Jeff finally spoke up. “We also need to choose and Enforcer. We might as well do that now.”

“What’s the job of Enforcer?” Kane asked.

Ash answered. “An Enforcer is someone who has proven their total loyalty to the pard. Someone willing to lay down their own life to protect us. Usually someone the Alpha’s hold in the highest respect.” She wouldn’t look at anyone as she spoke. She felt fingers lightly touch the back of her hand and was surprised to see they were Jeff’s.

“Whoever gets the job should know they will have big shoes to fill.”

Ash gave him a small smile and squeezed his hand. “And if he’ll accept I have someone in mind. He has shown me dedication and true loyalty in the face of danger. He has proven his aptitude in many forms of combat. And I would feel safe knowing our lives are in his hands.” She looked at Nicky. “Will you accept the title Enforcer?”

“I would be honored.”

Jeff stood. “Alright. Now that we’ve got that settled. Let’s clean up.” He helped Drew clear the table and clean the kitchen. Everyone else trickled out to do their own thing. Trish put her arm around Ash.

“I know you don’t like shopping much, but I think Heather and Amy could use a girls day out.”

“Can’t you take them?”

“Ashley...”

“Fine. If I gotta.” The four girls changed and left he house. Ash drove to the mall. She drug her feet, keeping to the rear of the other three as they browsed the shops. Trish convinced her to try on a couple of things, which she ended up buying. When they got to the cosmetics counter, Amy and Ash groaned. They sat in chairs and watched their girls browse the different make-up.

“I’ve never understood having more than basic shit.”

Ash snorted. “I don’t even wear that.”

“Heather just loves anything shiny. And if it glitters, watch out.”

“It’s a wonder her and Trish aren’t together.”

“Hey.”

“I didn’t mean you aren’t pretty, Amy. But Trish’s always wearing sparkly things.”

Amy looked grumpy. “I know.”

Ash had to laugh. “So she’s noticed, huh?”

“You could say that.”

“Well, maybe I’ll let you two borrow her sometime.”

“Don’t let Heather hear you say that. She’ll never quit bugging you.”

“Heather did hear her say that. And I’m gonna hold you to it.” She gave Trish a wicked grin. “As long as Trish doesn’t mind.”

Trish returned the smile. “No problems here.”

Ash stood. “It’s mutiny. I can’t even control my own cats.” Her and Amy were finally able to drag them away. They were just out of the store when Ash caught sight of another lycanthrope. “BIG DADDY!”

The large man stopped and looked around. He smiled when he spotted Ash. “I knew that had to be you. No one else calls me that. Hi, Trish.”

“Hey, Kevin.”

Heather frowned at him. “You look really familiar.”

“He should. This is Kevin. He was checking cars at the council meeting we went to.”

“Oh. The werebear. Now I remember.”

Kevin smiled again. “Heather, right. And I don’t believe I know you.”

Amy shifted her bags to her left hand and shook his with her right. “Amy. Nice to meet you.”

“So what’cha doing at the mall? Buying a present for a lady friend?”

“No, Ash. My niece’s birthday is next week.”

Ash pointed to a large bag at his feet. “Geez, Kevin. What’d you get her?”

He pulled a large stuffed teddy bear out to the humor of the four women. “I know it’s cheesy but she’s only four and she loves stuffed animals.”

“It’s just too cute for words. A werebear buying a teddy bear for his niece.” Ash had to talk around giggles.

“Bye girls.”

“Wait. Kevin, wait. I wanted to ask you something.”

“What?”

“Have you seen any leopards you don’t recognize?”

“No. You got a rogue?”

“Yeah. Blond male. That’s all I know. Never seen his cat form.”

“If I see him I’ll subdue him until you get there.”

“Thanks, Kevin. On and one more question.”

“Yeah?”

“Will you take a picture of you in a Barbie doll party hat?”

“Bye Ash.”

“Ash, how smart is it to taunt a werebear?”

She tried to stop laughing enough to answer Amy. “Kevin has a good sense of humor. He’s the only bear in St. Louis so he helps the other groups where he can. Mostly the smaller ones.”

“So he’s kinda like a hairy body guard?”

“Exactly. Now lets hit the food court. Watching you guys shop is making me hungry.”

Trish linked her arm through Ash’s. “We should do this more often.”

“Hanging out with you three? Yes. Shopping? No. I refuse to become a mall rat.”

“We don’t always have to shop. We could do other stuff too.”

“Yeah.” Heather piped in. “Like go to the movies.”

“Or mini golf even.” Amy said.

“Oh Goddess. You guys are trying to make me social. Must resist.” Ash put her hands over her face. “Don’t look them in the eyes. They’ll make you one of them.”

Trish lightly popped her on the shoulder. “Oh stop it. It’s not like you had anything better to do.”

“Say’s who? An Alpha’s work is never done.”

“All work and no play makes Ash a lonely girl.”

Ash shrugged. “I’ve still got Shannon.”

Trish gave her a sexy pout. “If you don’t want me, I know Heather does.”

Ash’s arm shot out and slid around Trish’s waist. “Don’t go putting words in my mouth.”

“Damn,” Heather snapped her fingers. “We almost had her, Amy.”

“Aw. Maybe another time.”

It was just about dusk when they finally made it home. They all made a loose circle in a large clearing out back. Drew and Rob stood in the middle. “Alright, boys. Here are the rules. No weapons. No purposefully broken bones. When your opponent gives the fight is over. If any of these rules are broken you will forfeit. Everything clear?”

Both men nodded. “Then you may begin.”

They got a running start and launched themselves at each other. They met in midair and landed hard with Rob on top. He tried a chokehold for a quick win but Drew broke his grip. They scrambled to their feet to regroup. The fight was fast paced with both trying to wear the other down. Both men finally lay panting on the ground. Neither had much energy left. Ash stepped forward. “Whoever can make it to me first will win.” They struggled toward her, but it was slow going. Just before Drew reached out, Rob lunged and grabbed her ankle. She helped him to his feet while Jeff practically supported Drew.

“You both fought well. Congratulations Rob.”

Rob smiled tiredly and shook Jeff’s hand. “I hope I never make it to Alpha. Don’t get yourself killed, man.” Next he hugged Drew and they were helped into the house.

Ash was in the living room with the other girls when Rob came down the stairs dressed for a club. “Anyone wanna come with me? I feel like celebrating.”

“Aren’t you exhausted?” Ash asked.

“Nah. I’m fine. Just a bit tired.”

“Well, be careful.”

“Will do, boss.” Ash shook her head as he left. “An hour ago he practically had to be carried into the house. Now he’s going clubbing. Boy’s can be so stupid.”

Kane snorted, making Ash jump.

“Geez. I forgot you were there. Make more noise.”

“I’ll try to remember that.” He’d picked a chair in the darkest corner of the room. From there he could watch everyone and get himself used to being around so many people. The one thing he’d noticed most was how touchy they all were. All of them were always touching someone. Some had particular people they seemed to touch more. Shawn was the exception. He didn’t appear picky. The only one who wasn’t always touching was Rob. That intrigued Kane. He had figured the need for contact was a pard thing. But Rob didn’t lay on people, nor did he seem particularly interested in any one person. Kane had even noticed Rob staring at him occasionally. It seemed odd. Most people were curious but afraid to look too long. Afraid to upset him. Rob apparently wasn’t worried about that. He flicked his eyes over the four girls in the room.

Heather lay on her stomach propped on pillows. Amy was beside her brushing her hair. Ash was on the couch with Trish’s head in her lap. They were all intently staring at the television. They were watching something about a crow. He wasn’t paying attention to the movie. His attention went back to the girls on the floor. They’d been the ones with Adam. He didn’t understand that either. From what he’d witnessed, Adam was a killer. Ruthless and deadly. Maybe he’d changed, but people don’t change that much. Someone knocked on the door. Amy got up to answer it. Kane heard her yelling for Ash. The other three rushed to the door. He got up slower, wondering what was wrong. The scene that greeted him was a grim one.

Kevin sat a bleeding Rob against the wall. “I found him like this. He’s cut up with silver.”

Ash ran her hands over him then turned panicked eyes to Jeff. “I can’t call his beast. Jeff, I can’t help him.”

Kane crouched down beside her. “I can. Though not much. I need sleep to heal him fully. But I can stop the bleeding.”

Ash backed up to give him room. He pulled apart the tattered pieces of Rob’s shirt and placed his hand on his chest. He poured what energy he had left into Rob. The bleeding stopped immediately but the wounds remained open. “That’s as much as I can do for now.”

“It’s enough. We can take it from here.”

“I can finish healing him after I’ve slept. You might as well let me keep him. If he wakes up he’ll be in a lot of pain.”

“But you sleep really heavy. You’ll never wake up. And he needs to be kept warm, Kane.”

“I’m only half undead, Ash. I still have body heat.”

“I didn’t mean that.”

“I know what you meant. But the longer we argue about this, the longer it’ll be until I can heal him. I only need about two hours and I’ll be fine. I’ll more than likely wake up before him.”

“You don’t have to do this. We can take care of him.”

“Your voice shakes when you say that. You don’t know if you can. I do. This is why you brought me here.”

Ash finally nodded, so Kane picked up Rob’s lifeless form and carried him towards his room. She turned back to Kevin. “I owe you a lot. Thank you.”

He looked down at his blood soaked clothes. “You can repay me with a shower.”

“Of course. If you want I can have someone run to your house for clean clothes. You can just stay here tonight.”

“That’d be great.” He handed her his house keys. Heather and Amy stepped forward.

“We’ll go.”

“Thanks, girls. Kevin, you remember where the bathroom is?”

“Yeah.”

With everything taken care of that could be Ash leaned against the wall heavily. Jeff tugged on her arm. “Let’s go upstairs.”

She didn’t fight him. Shannon and Trish came in shortly after. “Who do you think did it?” Shannon’s voice was small, more childlike than usual.

“I’m sure you know who I think did this.”

“Wait a minute,” Jeff smoothed a hand down Ash’s back. “You don’t know it was Adam.”

“Who else is pissed at us right now?”

“Mark.”

Ash shook her head. “Not his style. He’s more straightforward. We’d know if it’d been him.”

Trish yawned and rolled on her side. “All that matters right now is that Rob’s gonna be okay. When we get him healthy we can worry about killing whoever did it to him.”

Ash and Jeff exchanged dark looks. They knew now, if Adam had attacked Rob, they’d have no choice but to kill him.

Rob woke to pain. Not terrible, but there. He didn’t want to move. It was pitch black in the room. Someone was beside him. Warm and large. Rob sniffed surprised to find it was Kane. He slowly sat up and put his feet on the floor.

“Are you in pain?”

Rob jumped slightly. “Not a lot. But yeah.”

“Do you remember what happened?”

“I was attacked. I don’t’ know who did it. You healed me.”

“Yes.”

“Why do I still feel weak?”

“Healing you fully might’ve sent your system into shock. I was only doing it a little at a time.”

“Should I leave now?”

“That’s up to you. Your own natural healing will take care of any remaining damage.”

“Um...okay. So I guess I should thank you.”

“You’re welcome, Rob.”

Rob stood up and cursed. “I can’t see the fucking door.” He heard Kane moving and a small dim light came on. Kane had his back to Rob, who stepped closer to the bed.

“Stop.”

“Why won’t you let anyone see you?”

“Look at my back.” There were dark brown splotches covering his skin. “I have those everywhere.”

“They’re not so bad.”

“Try living with them.”

“We all have things we wish we could change, Kane.”

“And some scars run deeper than others, Rob.”

“Alright, man, I get the point. I’ll leave.” Rob exited and went straight for the shower. After he was clean, dry, and dressed he realized how hungry he was. It was lunchtime and the pard was all gathered in the kitchen. A collective cheer went up from around the table. Rob sat down and caught up on what’d been going on while he was out. The bite of pizza he’d just taken went tasteless in his mouth as Kane walked in. He sat beside Ash silently. Rob stole glances at him when no one was looking. Or so he thought. Ash caught his eye and raised a questioning eyebrow at him. He blushed and resumed eating. After lunch was cleaned up, he plopped down on the couch. “I’m bored.”

Jeff grinned and shook a finger at him. “No clubbing for a while.”

“No worries there, man.”

Trish came in holding a large box. “We bought you a get well soon present.”

Rob opened it excitedly and frowned at its contents. “A chess set? I don’t even know how to play.”

Ash took it from him and began setting it up. “You’ll have plenty of time to learn. You’re not leaving the house until we figure out whether the attack on you was personal or pard related.”

“Great. I get attacked and now I’m under house arrest.” He looked bleakly around the room. “Anyone know how to play chess?”

“I do.”

Rob’s pulse sped up as Kane crouched in front of the coffee table.

Ash shook her head. “Get ready to have your ass handed to you. He’s really good, Rob.”

“That’s okay. I’m not afraid to loose. I just get really competitive if I do.” He tried to concentrate on Kane’s voice as he explained the basics of chess, but his attention kept drifting back to the bedroom he’d woken up in. When they finally started a game, Rob was doing so badly that Shannon came over to help. People walking by tried to help by calling out moves as well. They put up a decent fight, but Kane eventually won. “That wasn’t bad for your first game, but you have to think in advance more. Try to plot his next move.”

Rob suppressed a smile. “Thanks, Shannon. That’s the best advice anyone’s given me.”

They started up another game that Rob lost. The two played well into the night. Kane finally stood up. “You need sleep. You’re still hurt.”

“I’m fine, man.” Rob’s voice was slurred.

“We will play again after you have slept.”

“Fine. And I WILL beat you.” Rob stumbled upstairs to his room and collapsed on the bed, already asleep.

He woke the next afternoon feeling energized. After changing clothes he skipped down to the living room. “Kane up yet?”

Ash gave him a wide grin. “Considering he only sleeps a few hours a week, yeah. He’s up.”

“Huh?”

“Part of his heritage. He needs very little sleep.”

“Cool.”

Jeff walked in, his face drawn up with worry. “Ash, we got trouble.”

She jumped up. “What kind?”

“Down at the club.”

Ash’s face immediately went stony. “Let’s go up to the office.”

Heather turned to Amy. “What club?”

It was Nicky who answered. “The pard owns a club downtown. It’s how we get our money. Ash turned over management to Kevin after Gabrielle died.”

“Why?”

“Take a wild guess at what kind of club Gabrielle would operate.”

“Bondage and discipline?”

“Bingo.”

“Ah, I see why you guys wouldn’t want to have anything to do with it.”

Ash came back into the room a few minutes later. “Jeff and I need to go downtown for a bit. Everyone play nice while we’re gone.”

They drove in silence down there and walked into the empty nightclub. Kevin had said they’d be in the office. They went upstairs and entered without knocking. Kevin smiled and stepped to the side. “Found him sneaking around out back.”

Ash looked down and almost flinched. A young blond man was laying on the floor. Sweat beaded his handsome face. One eye was swollen and his nose looked broken. One of his legs was bent at an awkward angle. She crouched down beside him. “What’s your name?”

“Chris.”

“Okay, Chris. So why don’t you tell us why you’ve been fucking with my pard?”

He shrugged, arrogance plain on his face. “Fun.”

“Are you having fun now?”

“I was up until that crazy bastard broke my fucking leg.”

“That ‘crazy bastard’ is my friend. Which makes him a friend of my pard. Which makes him your enemy. You still wanna be a smart ass?”

He shook his head.

“Very wise of you. Now, the way I see it, you got two choices. One, continue with your childish behavior and get killed. Or two, ask for status within the pard and pray I’m in a good mood.”

“And what if you’re not?”

“We’re gonna kill you anyway.”

“Ash...” Jeff’s voice held a warning.

“Fine. We’ll give you a chance to leave the city. And if you don’t we’ll kill you. Better?”

Jeff smiled wryly. “Much.”

Chris panted in pain. “Alright, so I’ll choose option number two.”

“I’m waiting.”

“Will you let me join your pard?”

“You don’t wanna be a rogue anymore?”

“No.”

“I didn’t hear you say please.”

Chris snarled, but got himself under control. “Please.”

“I’ll have to think about it. In the mean time, you’re coming with us. Kevin, will you put him in my car please?”

“Sure.” He hefted the smaller man up and carried him outside. Ash had to give Chris credit. Kevin hadn’t been gentle with him, but she didn’t hear one word of complaint. Jeff looked in the backseat at him then to Ash. “His leg will need fixing.”

“I’ll ask Kane to do it.”

“His eye isn’t healing either, Ash. He’s not a normal lycanthrope.”

The thought had occurred to Ash, too.

“I don’t have natural healing like you do.”

She looked at Chris in the rearview mirror. “Why not?”

“My shape shifting is a curse. I didn’t contract lycanthropy.”

“Who cursed you?”

He looked away. “I dunno.”

“Alright, sugar, play the secrecy game. It really doesn’t matter.”

“I’m not playing a game. I really don’t know. It’s a family curse.”

They pulled into the parking garage. “Jeff, can you get him into the house?”

“Yeah.” He hauled Chris over his shoulder. “Lead the way.”

“Gather round, boys and girls.” Ash said loudly as they entered the living room. Jeff dumped his burden on the floor.

“Our rogue troubles are over. Chris his come to his senses, seen the error of his ways, and come over to our side.”

“Does this mean you’ve decided against killing me?”

She patted his clammy cheek. “Yes, sugar, it does. Now, Kane, if you wouldn’t mind too much, believe we need your assistance.”

“I can shift. It’ll heal my leg.”

“Alright, sugar, but remember. You’re one of us now. But that doesn’t mean we won’t kill you if you try anything.”

There was a flash of green light and a golden brown and white leopard stood in front of them. Another flash and Chris crouched naked on the floor.

Micha stepped forward. “He’s not a true were.”

“No, I’m not.” Chris stood and brushed his hair from his face. “I’m not bound by the same rules as you are. I can shift back and forth without passing out. My change is magic. But I don’t heal damage the way you do. I can take more than a human, but I’ll heal like a human.” He limped to a chair. “And shifting doesn’t fix everything for me.”

Micha pushed his glasses up on his nose. “Interesting. But do you have to hunt at all?”

Chris idly massaged his still aching leg. “Not on the full moon. But at least once a month. I’m not sure why.”

Ash stepped in. “Enough with the twenty questions. Shawn could you show Chris to a bedroom? He probably wants to rest.”

“Sure,” Shawn slid him a sly glance and led him away by the hand. Once in the communal bedroom, Chris pulled out of Shawn’s grasp.

“Uh, thanks, I think I can figure out what to do from here.”

“You gonna take a shower? I’ll wash your back.”

“No thanks. I’m flexible.”

“Damn,” Shawn grumbled on his way out. “Another straight one.”

Chris hid a smirk and turned for the bathroom.

A few days later Chris lounged on the huge bed in his boxers. Christian poked his head in. “Downstairs. Mandatory.”

Chris sat up. “What’s with all this togetherness shit? Hunt together. Eat together. Fuck, we even sleep together. Though, I have to say I don’t mind that as much.”

“Game night after the last hunt.”

“Together?”

“Of course.”

“Fine.” The two walked downstairs together.

Ash raised an eyebrow at them. “So good of you to join us, Chris. Next time don’t be late.”

“How can I be late for something I didn’t know was happening?”

“Well, now you know. The night after the last hunt, we meet in the living room.”

“What’s so important?”

“Hide and go seek in the dark.”

“Come again?”

“We play games. Watch movies. Do things as a pard to reestablish our humanness.”

“Joy of all joys. And I have to play?”

“Part of being pard, sugar.” She climbed up on a chair. “Okay boys and girls. Rules. Stay inside. No shifting. No peeking. And Kane can’t play.”

Kane gave a small shrug. Chris scowled at Ash. “How come?”

“One, he’s not pard so he’s not required. Two, he can see in complete darkness. Unlike us, who need partial light.”

Kane got up and went to his room.

“Okay, who wants to be it?”

No one jumped up.

“Come on, guys.” Still nothing. “Alright. Fine. I’ll pick. Shannon, you chose the game, you’re it first.”

“Okay.” He got up and covered his eyes. “One, two, three...”

Everyone scattered. Once they were out of the living room, Ash flipped the light off. Everything was plunged into darkness. She started toward the kitchen when she felt someone grab her hand. The person pulled her under the kitchen table. Not daring to say a word she took deep even breaths through her nose. She caught a whiff of familiar perfume and grinned. Moving silently she found Trish’s lips in the dark. She felt fingers fumbling with the buttons on her shirt then going inside. Trish pulled her mouth away and licked down Ash’s neck. She put her hands on Ash’s back and pushed her chest forward. Ash braced her elbows behind her and arched her back. Trish bent over her and gently bit a nipple through the fabric of her bra. Ash hissed an indrawn breath.

From the hall they heard Shannon say in a singsong voice. “I think I found someone.”

They tried not to giggle. Shannon sniffed and followed his nose under the table. “What’s going on here?”

Trish whispered, “It’s a different game. Wanna play?”

“You two can handle it on your own. If we’re abandoning hide and go seek I’m gonna play with someone else.”

Trish’s voice came out of the inky darkness. “We’re not abandoning it, we’re just playing a different version.”

Ash nodded in agreement even though no one could see. “More like hide and go get it.”

They heard the tablecloth rustle as Shannon drifted away.

Rob sighed quietly from his hiding place in the hall. He was crouched at the end, under the stairs. And he was bored. His gaze drifted to the side where a sliver of light was coming from underneath Kane’s door. He stood up and padded over on bare feet. No sound could be heard from within. He knocked very lightly. The door cracked and Kane’s masked face appeared. “You can’t hide in here.”

“I’m done playing.”

Kane opened the door wide enough to let the other man slip through. “That was fast.”

“Yeah, well I think everyone started pairing up to go get laid anyway.”

“And is that what you’re doing too?”

Rob blushed and started stammering. “No, I uh, well, what I mean is...what was the question again?”

“Did you come in here to get laid?”

“Jesus, you don’t mix words do you?”

“I don’t speak much. So why not get to the point when I do? But that’s not what we were talking about.”

“It’s not?”

Kane shrugged and reseated himself on the bed. “You brought it up. So what were your plans then?”

“Play chess?”

“I don’t feel like playing chess right now.”

“Oh. I guess I’ll leave then.”

“Okay.” Kane picked up the book sitting beside him. “If that’s what you want.”

Rob opened the door and froze. Shawn sat in the hall, back against the wall, and his fingers were tangled in Shannon’s blond hair. Shannon didn’t pause in his ministrations, but kept his steady up and down. Shawn met Rob’s gaze and gave him a huge grin and wink. Rob slammed the door shut and let his head fall forward.

“Problems?”

Rob jumped at Kane’s dry question. “Uh, no. Everything’s fine. I just changed my mind about leaving.”

“You probably could’ve stepped around them.”

Rob kept his back to the room, only turning his head. “You knew what was going on out there?”

“I have better hearing then everyone here. I could tell you what anyone was saying...or screaming right now.”

“Oh God.” Rob let his head fall back against he door. “Oh God.” He put his hands into his pockets, pulling his jeans down to alleviate the sudden tightness.

“What’re you praying for?”

A hundred responses flashed through Robs mind. “Nothing.” He slapped his hands over his ears and started pacing. He’d just about cleared his mind when an image of Kane standing in front of him popped into his head. He stopped pacing and glanced at the larger man. He was still reading, completely ignoring Rob. Rob shook the image from his mind, only to be replaced with another. Kane was gripping his head and they were kissing. Rob’s body hardened even father. He strode to the bed and slammed Kane’s book down.

“Can I help you with something?”

His calm response startled Rob into thinking clearly. “No. I guess not.”

“Just interrupting my reading for nothing?”

“Yes.”

“I don’t buy that. What’s really on your mind?”

Rob suppressed a blush. “You don’t want to know.”

“Are you sure?”

Rob took a quick breath. “Fine.” He leaned forward and placed a light fast kiss on Kane’s mouth.

Kane blinked. “That’s it? All that pacing and getting up of courage and that’s it?”

Rob glared at him a moment. “The mask is in the way.”

“Turn the light off.”

Rob hesitated before leaning over and switching off the only lamp. He heard rustling then Kane touched his arm. “Come here.”

“I can’t see.”

“You don’t need to. But you have to come to me.”

“I pictured you as being the take charge kind.”

“Do you want me to be?”

“I don’t know.”

“Let me know when you figure it out.”

Rob moved closer to Kane’s voice. “So how do we go about doing this?”

“Nervous?” There was a hint of humor in Kane’s tone.

“A bit.”

“Rob, this is your show. You call the shots.”

“Don’t sound too interested or anything.”

“I did take my mask off.”

Rob scooted until he was sitting beside Kane. “I just don’t know how to get things started.”

“You can start by picking up where you left off.”

Rob reached toward Kane’s face but felt fingers enclose his wrist. “Only one rule. Don’t touch my face.”

“Oh. Okay. I feel at a disadvantage here. I can’t see shit, and I can’t touch you.”

“If you want me to kiss you then just tell me.”

Rob nervously licked his lips and nodded, knowing Kane would see it. He felt him coming closer. Kane placed his lips against Rob’s and waited. Rob realized he was supposed to take control. He made the contact firmer and opened his mouth slightly. Kane mirrored him. Their breaths mingled. Rob tentatively touched his tongue to Kane’s bottom lip. When he didn’t respond, Rob pulled away. “You can help me out here, ya know.”

“Is that a request?”

“Yeah.”

Kane gripped Rob’s head lightly and angled it to the side. He traced the seam of Rob’s lips until he parted them. Rob moaned as Kane plunged into his mouth. Rob leaned back until Kane was half laying on him. Rob ran his hands under Kane’s shirt and over his broad back. Kane leaned up quickly. “What? Why’d you stop?”

“You’re touching my scars.”

“Am I not supposed to?”

“If they don’t bother you it’s fine.”

“But it bothers you?”

“Yes.”

“Then tell me where I can touch you.”

“I guess anywhere but my face is okay.”

Rob trailed his fingers along Kane’s ribs. “We’ll have to figure each other’s boundaries out somehow.”

Kane let that comment go and dipped his head again. “What boundaries do you have?” He lightly nipped Rob’s ear. “Or do you even know?”

“Not yet. But I think I’m willing to find out.”

Kane sat up, pulling away from him. “Then we’ll continue when you figure it out.”

“That’s it?”

“I don’t want to push you too far. You’re too skittish.”

“But I don’t want to leave.”

“I didn’t say you had to.”

“So what now, then?”

Kane sighed. “Do you want to play chess?”

“No.” Rob sounded grumpy. “I don’t think I could concentrate on the game right now.”

“Then perhaps you should alleviate your tension elsewhere.”

“But you’d hear me.”

“If I chose to listen.”

“Would you?”

Kane dropped back against the bed. “Probably.”

“Why?”

“Rob, I’m really growing bored of your endless questions.”

“Fine. But I have one more.”

“What?”

“When I figure out how far I’m willing to go, can I come back?”

“Yes.” Kane slipped his mask back on. “You may turn on the light.”

Rob did and waited for his eyes to adjust. When he could see again he went for the door. “So, uh, are you going to listen to me?”

“You said only one more question, Rob. That was two. But I have one of my own. Do you want me to?”

Rob blushed and fled the room. Thankfully Shawn and Shannon weren’t in the hall.

The next morning at breakfast Rob was too nervous to eat much. When Kane walked in he lowered his head to hide his expression. Kane saw the gesture but didn’t comment. Shawn got a devilish grin. “So, Rob, what’d you do last night?”

“Not a whole lot.”

“I saw you in Kane’s room.”

“And?”

“And, considering what game the rest of us were playing, I assumed...”

Kane spoke up. “You know what assuming does.”

Shawn choked on his orange juice. “So you guys weren’t fucking?”

Rob tried to keep the blush from his face. Again, Kane responded. “Chess.”

“Oh,” Shawn looked amused.

“Shawn?” Ash waited until he was looking at her. “Since when is it anyone’s business who’s fucking who? You might not care if we know who’s sucking your dick in the hallway, but other people have a bit more tact. Rob and Kane might not be fucking but whatever they do is for them to know. Next time leave it alone, okay?”

“Sure, Ash.”

“Thank you.”

“Protecting you pet projects now?”

Ash arched an eyebrow at Shawn. “Pet projects?”

“Yeah. You’ve always got at least one.”

“Do I really?”

Jeff patted her thigh. “But it’s okay, dear. We understand.”

“I’m not trying to play favorites. I’m just trying to make sure everyone’s happy and shit. If that means taking on pet projects then so be it.”

Trish kissed her cheek. “Don’t go gettin’ all riled up now, sugar.”

Ash playfully batted at her. “Now don’t YOU go stealin’ my endearments, doll.”

Trish grabbed each side of her face and planted a big kiss on Ash’s lips. “Sure, sugar. Whatever you say, baby.”

“Insubordinate, insolent, and....and. And I can’t think of anything else to call you.”

The two bantered back and forth during the rest of breakfast. As everyone started getting up, Kane stood behind Rob. He tugged lightly on his ponytail to get his attention. Rob looked up with startled eyes. “Yeah?”

“How ‘bout a rematch from last night?”

Rob’s eyes lit up. “Uh, sure. I think I’ll do a lot better this time. I’m a bit more confident.”

“Well good. Maybe you can get farther before you get frustrated and quit.”

“I’ll try to be more patient.”

Kane nodded and walked back to his room with a small hidden smirk. Rob followed at his heels; trying not to appear over anxious. Once they were closed up, he shifted nervously from one foot to the other. “Were you REALLY talking about chess?”

“What do you think?”

“I dunno. I’m never sure with you.”

“I thought you were going to be more confident this time.”

Rob squinted at him. “Trust me?”

“Not completely.”

Rob took a few steps closer to him. “Just once. Trust me.”

“Fine.” Kane watched Rob close his eyes and lift his hands. Kane had to fight the urge to pull back when he realized his mask was Rob’s target. He just had to trust that Rob would keep his eyes closed. Rob tugged on the chinstrap and gently pushed the hard plastic up and away from his face. Kane caught it before it hit the floor.

Rob could feel the tension coming off of Kane in waves. He lifted his head and brought his lips up to Kane’s. “Trust me.” He sealed his mouth over the other man’s.

Kane bit back a groan at Rob’s boost in confidence. Rob deftly slipped his tongue into Kane’s mouth and plundered its depths. He dug his fingers through Kane’s hair and pressed his body close. Kane wrapped one arm around his waist and slanted his head to the side. When Rob pulled away he was smiling and his eyes were still closed. “I’m better at sensory deprivation if I’m in control of it. But we can turn out the light if you want.”

“I’d feel better if we did.”

Rob nodded and stepped back. Kane switched off the lamp and waited. He heard Rob take a few shuffling footsteps. “Uh, Kane? Can you make some noise or something? I kinda lost ya.”

Kane stalked silently around the smaller man. “Have you decided what your boundaries are yet?”

Rob jumped and spun in the direction Kane’s voice was coming from, but when he reached out, Kane was no longer there. “Not yet. Let me find you and we might figure it out.”

“I told you to figure it out first.”

Rob once again reached for him but felt only empty air. “Got a better idea. We stop all this planning shit and just go with it.”

Kane stopped right in front of him. “Is that the way you want it?”

“Yeah, it is.”

Kane leaned down and captured Rob’s mouth in an intense kiss. Rob moaned in surprise and returned it eagerly. He tentatively placed his hands flat on Kane’s chest for balance. Kane put his arm around his waist again for support and pulled them together. Rob shifted his hips against the other man in a mindless gesture of need. Kane shifted both hands down to hold Rob’s hips still. He made a noise of protest in the back of his throat. Rob pulled away and practically ripped his shirt off. He threw it over his shoulder and started tugging at Kane’s clothes. Kane batted his hands away and removed his shirt. Rob backed up until he felt the bed on the back of his legs. He laid down and leaned back on his elbows. He arched an eyebrow in Kane’s direction, knowing he could see it. He did, and approached Rob slowly. He bent down and braced his arms beside Rob’s. Their faces were inches apart. “What are you looking to happen now?”

“Hands in new places?”

“Whose hands?”

Rob looped his legs around Kane’s waist and, using his leverage, flipped the big man on his back. Rob ended up straddling his hips. He waggled his eyebrows and ran his hands over the other man’s chest. He leaned down and bit gently at a nipple. He was gratified to hear Kane suck in a breath. He smiled and ran the flat of his tongue over the abused flesh. A thought occurred to Rob and he bolted upright.

Kane watched him chew on his bottom lip. “Something wrong?”

“Uh, do you have a, uh, blood fetish or anything?”

“No. I don’t crave blood. I guess the fey part counteracts that.”

“Oh.” Relief flooded Rob’s face.

Kane sat up and moved Rob off of him. “We’ll call that a mood breaker.”

“Kane, I’m sorry.” He reached out, but Kane had already gotten up.

“Don’t apologize. I’m not mad. I just think we need to back off for now.”

“Sure. I guess.”

Kane fitted his mask in place and turned on the light. “Up for some chess?”

“Why not? We’re apparently not gonna get any farther today.”

“Not necessarily. Just not at this moment.”

Rob let anticipation leak into his face. He bounded off the bed and grabbed a chair by the white pieces. “I go first.”

Kane smiled slightly and sat across from him.

“Sit.”

Shawn froze at Ash’s command. He turned wide innocent eyes to his Alpha. “Whaaaat?”

“Sit down. You are not going to spy on them.”

“I have no idea what you’re talking about. I was just gonna go see a friend.”

“Uh huh. You gonna get dressed first? Or is this a booty call?”

Shawn looked down as if just remembering his usual nakedness. “I’ll get dressed. See you guys later.”

“Stay away from Kane’s room, Shawn.”

“Sure thing.”

“I mean it. I better not catch you lurking outside that door.”

“I never lurk, Ash.” Shawn gave her a huge grin and walked away.

Micha brushed past him excitedly. “ASH! WE GOT IT!”

Ash gave him a puzzled look. “Got what?”

“A building. We got a building.”

Her face slowly dissolved into excitement. “Are you for real? We got it? Where?”

“Down town. Not far from the old club.”

“But do we have the funds to do anything with it?”

“Yep. We’ve been sitting on them for months now.”

Ash jumped up and leaped at Micha. She kissed him full on the mouth. He spun her around and they hollered together.

Heather scratched her head. “Why am I confused?”

Jeff smiled and leaned over to her. “We’ve been trying to find a good spot for a new club. It’s been Ash and Micha’s pet project for a while now.”

Ash jumped down and did a happy dance. “When can we start work on it?”

“Hopefully by next week. They’re drawing up the paper work as we speak.”

Ash squealed and stamped her feet. Shannon grinned devilishly. “Is this cause for celebration?”

Ash pumped her fist in the air. “PARTY!!!”

Jeff grabbed his keys from the coffee table. “I’ll go get the booze.”

Some of the excitement leaked from Ash. “Who’s gonna be in charge of music? Adam used to...”

“I’ll do it.” Trish smiled. “I have better taste anyway.”

Amy bent close and playfully licked Trish’s neck. “Yep. Definitely taste better.”

“Good. So you can help me then.”

Ash was headed out the door when she called, “Someone call Kevin’s and tell Shawn we’re having a party tonight. He’ll be pissed if he misses it.”

“How do you know he’s with Kevin?” Micha asked.

“Please. Have you seen the way Shawn looks at him? He’s there. Now come on. You’re taking me to see the new club.”

“Yes, ma’am.”

Chris got up from the couch. “So a party is cool. But I don’t understand the need for booze. We can’t get drunk.”

Trish shrugged. “Not a party without liquor. And the babies will probably feel better with it there.”

Christian, Heather, and Chris all gave her funny looks. But she waved a dismissive hand. “All in due time, m’dears.”

“Check-mate.”

Rob glared at the pieces before finally relenting. “You win. Again.”

“Don’t get too discouraged. You’re getting better.”

Rob stood up and stretched. “I think my brains’ getting fried from all this thinking.”

“We’ll take a break.”

“Great.” Rob smiled when a wicked thought popped into his mind. Before he could think much about it, he closed the distance between him and Kane. “Up for a little mindless entertainment?”

“What do you have in mind?”

Instead of answering, Rob sank to his knees in front of Kane. His hands went to the other man’s fly. “I’m sure something will come up.”

Kane scooted down in the chair to make Rob’s path easier. Rob got the jeans undone and pulled them down about half way. He gulped when he got his first glimpse of Kane. The man was huge. He almost backed out until he felt his own body reacting. Kane waited patiently for Rob’s next move. Rob nervously licked his lips, still not taking his eyes off his target. “I’ve never done this before.”

“I know.”

Rob nodded and leaned forward. He grasped Kane’s cock in one hand and slowly pumped it. He glanced up to see Kane’s reaction but the mask hid what he was feeling. “You’re gonna have to help me out here, man. I can’t see your reactions.”

“You want me to talk dirty to you?”

The thought of Kane whispering lewd things in his ear almost made him smile. “Something like that.”

“I will try to let you know how you are doing.”

“Yeah.” Rob licked his lips again and saw Kane’s nostrils flare. He bent his head again and tentatively licked the slit. Kane groaned at the light contact. Feeling bolder, Rob opened his mouth and slipped the head inside. He closed his lips around it. He ran his tongue over the flesh in his mouth, amazed at the new sensations. Once he grew more comfortable, he began to work up and down, taking more each time. Kane sighed in pleasure and fisted his hands on the arms of the chair. Rob’s almost shy exploration was threatening his control. He let his head fall back with a ragged moan. “Rob....”

Rob made a sound in his throat that vibrated all the way through him.

“Ah....Rob....” Kane’s hips were twitching. It took every ounce of strength he had not to thrust up and choke Rob. “Rob, you’re gonna make me come.”

“Mmm-hmm.” The sound sent a thrill through Rob. He sucked harder and used his hand to stroke the base of Kane’s cock.

Kane gave a raw moan and went ridged.

Rob tried not to gag when the first jet hit the back of his throat. He attempted to swallow it all, but some slipped past his lips to dribble down his chin. He didn’t release Kane until he felt the spasms subside. Rob stood on shaky legs and wiped his chin clean. He gave the other man a goofy grin. “How’d I do?”

“Let’s just say if you were that good at chess...”

Rob gaped at him. “You made a joke.”

Kane only shrugged. “Come here.”

Rob shook his head. “Not yet.”

“Excuse me?”

“Much as I’d really like to get off, I’m a small dose kind of guy a bit to let this sink in.”

Kane nodded and fixed his clothes.

“Want to get some lunch?”

“You go ahead. I’m not hungry.”

“Sure.” Rob left, glad for the space so he could think.

Later that night, after everything had been arranged, they all gathered in the living room once again. The only illumination was from multi-colored Christmas lights draped around the room. Music played in the back ground, but not so loud that it was overpowering. Over it they heard the doorbell. Ash got up to answer it. She was surprised to see Kevin. “What are you doing here?”

Kevin gave her a knowing look as he took in her baggy jeans and loose tank top. Across the front was a picture of a surfer. Under him were the words “If it swells, ride it.”

“You guys never have invited me to one of these things. So I decided to crash.”

“Didn’t think this was your cup of tea, sugar. But the more the merrier. You’re welcome to come in.” She gave him a saucy wink and turned away. “Big Daddy’s decided to join us everyone.”

Shannon smirked. “Does he know what he’s in for?”

“I think he does, Shanny.”

“Then can we get the REAL party started?”

“Getting antsy, sugar?”

“Uh huh.”

“Aw.” Ash ran her hand up his bare chest. “Well, then you go right ahead and play.”

He grinned and cocked his head toward Drew, who looked a bit startled. Shannon glided over to him and without preamble, began unbuckling his pants. Drew jumped a little, but quickly relaxed.

Rob’s eyes went wide. “What kind of party is this?”

Shawn’s eyes took on a predatory gleam. “My favorite kind.”

Rob took a few steps backward. Shawn laughed. “There are too many willing toys here for me to chase you around.” He reached into a drawer and pulled out a small bottle. He dropped it on Rob’s lap. “If you decide to join in.” He winked and made his way over to Shannon and Drew.

Heather took to the new idea very well. She grabbed Jeff by the hand and pulled him over to Trish. “Wanna make a fantasy of mine come true?”

Jeff gestured to Trish. “After you, M’lady.”

She grinned and pressed herself against Heather.

Seeing this, Amy decided to look for other entertainment. She spotted Chris lounging against a wall. “Orgies not your thing?”

He shrugged. “Leave it to you guys to even have sex as a group.”

“It’s my first one, too. And my girlfriend deserted me.” She twisted a lock of his hair around his finger. “What ever shall I do?”

“Don’t you mean who?”

“Exactly.”

“What if I already had my sights set on someone?”

Amy shrugged. “Three’s not always a crowd.”

Micha fidgeted anxiously next to Nicky. “Go play.”

Micha shot his lover a shocked look. “What about you?”

“I’ll find something to do.”

Micha grinned and gave him a hard kiss on the lips. “Thank you.”

After he walked away, Nicky looked around. Ash stood by herself as if contemplating. Nicky wrapped his arm around her from behind. She leaned back into him. From across the room, Kevin crooked a finger at the two. Ash gave a small shiver of excitement. “What do you think?”

Nicky mirrored her shiver. “I say lets go for it.”

Micha too looked around the room. Rob had disappeared and everyone was engaged somewhere. He decided to just float around and play wherever. His first stop was with Drew, Shannon, and Shawn. They had already progressed farther than everyone else. Drew still stood against the wall, but Shannon was sucking him for all he was worth. The small blond made whimpering noises around Drew’s cock. Shawn was positioned behind him and had two fingers up his ass. Micha ran his fingers through Shannon’s soft hair. “Looks like there’s no place for me.”

Shawn licked his lips. “Strip down. We’ll figure something out.”

Micha shed his clothes and then helped Drew out of his shirt. Apparently Shannon hadn’t thought about that in his haste to molest the big man. Shannon groaned when Shawn inserted another finger into him.

“Hey, Micha. We can play in a minute. I’m just getting Lil Bit ready for Drew.”

Micha sank to his knees and captured Shawn’s mouth in a rough kiss. His hand found Shawn’s cock and started stroking it.

Above them, Drew grunted as he pulled Shannon off of him with a wet pop. “He damn well better be ready. ‘Cause I’m about to come.”

Shawn removed his fingers without breaking the kiss. Shannon moved a few feet away and got on all fours. He wiggled his ass at Drew. The larger man growled and coated himself with lube. Micha and Shawn looked up when Shannon let out a loud wail. Drew was on his knees behind the smaller blond. He’d sat up and pulled Shannon onto his lap. Shannon bounced energetically against him. Drew had one arm around him, jerking him off.

Micha stared in appreciation. “Did Shannon really take all of Drew?”

Shawn bucked his hips against Micha’s still pumping hand. “Uh huh. He’s more talented then most people would guess. And a mouth like a fucking Hoover.”

“How multi-talented is he?”

It was Shannon that answered. “I can suck you and get fucked at the same time. Come here, Micha.”

Micha couldn’t resist. He crawled over to Shannon. After some rearranging, Shannon was once again on his hands and knees, Drew still pounding away behind him. Micha laid down so Shannon could bend at the waist to reach him. Shannon wasted no time in taking his cock all the way down. He paused for a moment, then Micha felt his tongue on his balls. His whole body jerked. “Jesus fucking Christ, Shannon!!”

Shawn climbed across Micha’s chest and waved his cock in front of Micha’s open mouth. “I told you he’s a talented little shit. Now why don’t you use that trash mouth for something else.”

Micha grinned and complied.

Jeff heard a muffled moan that he immediately recognized. Tearing his eyes away from the scene in front of him, he glanced over at Shannon. He made eye contact with Drew with a grin, then turned back to Heather and Trish. The girls were kissing wildly and yanking at each other’s clothes. Jeff lounged back against the chair he was in. “Ladies, slow down. What’s the rush? We’ve got all night.”

Trish broke the kiss and yanked Heather’s jeans and panties down. Heather stepped out of them and shed the rest of her clothes. Trish stayed kneeling and pulled the other girl down with her. Heather braced her top half on her elbows to watch Trish. The blond licked up Heather’s thighs to her pussy. Heather gasped above her as Trish attacked her with lips and tongue.

Jeff slid out of the chair and behind Trish. He popped her on the ass. “I don’t like being left out.”

She wiggled her bottom in his direction. He slid her skirt up and found her bare underneath. He ran a hand over her curves and found her already wet. He dipped his fingers into her. With a wicked smile he moved up to Heather and stuck his Trish soaked fingers in her mouth. She sucked them greedily.

He moved back to Trish and unbuckled his pants. Without undressing completely he took his hard on out and shoved himself inside her. Trish moaned and he could see her working her head faster on Heather. He thrust heavily and slammed her face into the other girl.

Amy buried her hands in Chris’s hair and tried to kiss him, but he spun her around and pinned her to the wall. “I like my girls a little more passive.”

Amy gasped and squirmed at the force. “Whatever you say.”

He laid his forehead against hers and cut his eyes to the side. “Christian looks awful lonely.”

Amy had a moment of indecision before she agreed. “Can’t have that.”

Christian showed them a startled wide-eyed expression, but walked over to them. He pulled his shirt off as he went.

Amy almost felt abandoned when Chris immediately turned away from her. But one look at the two blond beauties kissing before her and those thoughts vanished. Christian stood still as if shocked by the energy behind Chris’s assault. He attacked Christian’s mouth like a dying man. His hands roamed over the bared flesh of his chest. Christian got into the groove and unbuttoned Chris’s pants. Chris pulled away and pushed the other man to his knees. Christian readily obeyed and helped Chris out of his pants. “You know what to do now.”

Christian have him a sly smile before licking his erection from bottom to top. Chris spared a glance at Amy. “Why don’t you help him?"

“Is that a request or demand?”

He gave her a sly grin. “Bitch, get on your damn knees.”

“All you had to say.” She knelt beside Christian and they took turns licking and sucking on Chris’s cock. He pulled away when he felt his balls tightening. They all finished undressing and Chris positioned the other man laying on his back. He gave Amy a brutal kiss before saying, “Sit on his face.”

She eagerly straddled the prone man’s head and lowered her pussy to his mouth. His tongue immediately speared its way inside her. She moaned and ground her hips downward. She heard Chris moving then felt Christian tense under her. She turned her head to see him on his knees, cock buried in Christian’s ass.

Ash could feel tension coming off of Nicky in waves. His body practically hummed with it. “Shh, sugar. You’re okay.”

He looked in her eyes and drew in a calming breath. “I know. You’re here.”

She pulled him down to place a deep kiss on his lips. She explored his mouth until she felt him relax. She jumped a little when she felt large hands wrap around her hips. Without releasing Nicky she shifted her weight back against Kevin. He leaned way down and nuzzled her neck with light teasing nips.

Ash’s head reeled and the dual stimulation of Nicky’s soft lips at her mouth and Kevin’s beard roughened face at her neck. Simultaneously she felt Kevin’s fingers undoing her jeans and Nicky pulling on her top. She disengaged from the two men long enough to let them strip her. Once she was naked she put her hands on her hips and switched her eyes back and forth between the two. “Come on then, boys. Feeling a little exposed here.”

Kevin smiled and shook his shaggy head, but he did start removing his clothes. Nicky was a little slower, acting shy about baring himself. Once they were all in the same state of undress, Ash smiled seductively. “As you were.”

Nicky kissed her again. “Play with Kevin. You don’t get the chance to do a werebear every often.”

“What about you?”

He shrugged and she could tell he was uncomfortable.

She was about to say something else, but Kevin cupped her breast from behind. “Enough talk.”

Ash let her head fall back against him with a moan as he roughly pinched her nipples. Nicky took a few steps backward until he was seated on the couch, his hand resting on his upper thigh.

Kevin trailed one hand down her stomach to slip a finger into her. Ash gasped and arched into his hands. Feeling that she was ready, he laid Ash down on the floor and moved on top of her. “If they elf doesn’t want to join in, we’ll give him a damn good show.”

A feral scream ripped itself from Ash’s throat when he thrust into her. “Can you take it?”

She panted harshly from both pleasure and pain and nodded, squirming under him. “I’ll heal by tomorrow. Gimme all ya got, Big Daddy.” She looked sideways at Nicky, pleased to see him stroking himself with passion-glazed eyes.

Rob took large strides to Kane’s room before he lost his nerve. Once inside he tossed the bottle Shawn had given him at Kane. The larger man caught it and looked back at Rob.

“Yes?”

Rob blushed. “Please tell me you know what that’s used for?”

Kane cocked his head to the side. “Yes I do. But I’m wondering why you’re throwing a bottle of baby oil at me.”

Rob’s blush deepened. “I would think it’s pretty obvious, man. Can’t you hear what’s going on out there?”

“That has no bearing on what goes on in here, though.”

“You’re gonna make me say it, aren’t you?”

“Yes.”

Rob walked toward the bed, taking his shirt off along the way. “I want you to fuck me.” He flipped the light off and crawled onto the bed. He felt for Kane’s mask and slipped it off. The shirt followed. “I’m tired of all the teasing shit. I’m ready to get down to business.”

Kane groaned and attacked Rob’s mouth. They scooted down until they were both prone. Kane flipped Rob over and helped him out of his jeans. That being done, he shed the rest of his clothes. He settled with his head close to Rob’s groin. Rob’s breath rushed out of his lungs when Kane took his cock into the wet heat of his mouth. A high-pitched whine came from his throat and his whole body shook. He’d been far too over stimulated lately to hold back for long. Kane grunted in surprise when he felt Rob start to come. After the orgasm subsided, Kane lay down next to the still whimpering Rob. “I’m sorry.”

“For what?”

“I don’t usually come so quickly.”

“It’s okay.” Kane brushed a damp strand of hair off of Rob’s face. “You’re nice and relaxed now.”

“Will it hurt bad?”

Kane gently traced Rob’s cheekbones. “I’ll try to make sure it doesn’t.”

Rob nodded. “I’m ready then.”

“Not yet. But I’ll get you there.” He grabbed the baby oil and squirted some on his fingers. He turned back to Rob and kissed him deeply. Once he was getting into the kiss, Kane reached down and teased Rob’s opening. Rob stiffened a little at the first probing contact, but melted into Kane after a minute. Kane pumped his finger in and out until he felt Rob’s flesh loosening, then added a second. Rob moaned and clutched at the other man’s shoulders. “Did I hurt you?”

“A little. But keep going. I don’t want to stop.”

Kane inserted a third and watched Rob carefully for a reaction. Rob bit his lip and tried not to whimper. Kane made a decision and rolled Rob on top of him. “We’ll do this at your pace.”

Rob nodded and used one hand to guide Kane’s cock into position. He clamped his jaw shut and slowly lowered himself down. It wasn’t until Kane was fully sheathed that Rob realized he’d felt no pain. “What’d you do?”

“I want this to be pleasurable for both of us.”

“Are you using energy to make it not hurt?”

“Yes. I’ll stop when I know you’ve adjusted.”

Rob nodded and tentatively raised up. He gasped at the delicious friction that one move caused. It wasn’t long until he was slamming himself down onto Kane, pleased to hear Kane’s breath coming as hard as his was. Kane grabbed his hips and angled them forward, making Rob yelp at the sharp stab of pleasure as his sweet spot was hit. He stayed leaned forward, so Kane moved one hand to pump his cock. They felt a building of energy that was too large to have come from just them. Their senses seemed more acute. The cries from the living room echoed through their heads as they rose to a fevered pitch. The energy broke upon them like a tidal wave and both men yelled hoarsely. Rob slumped forward over Kane’s chest and knew no more.

Across town, Mark was walking by the front door when someone knocked. He opened it and just stared at the newcomer for a moment. A small evil smile played at his lips. “Come back to sit at the right hand of the devil?”

The man nodded without expression.

Mark’s smile widened to dangerous proportions. “Welcome home.”