For a second I don’t utter a word. I just stare at Ava, her cheeks flushed from a mixture of anger, jealousy, and embarrassment. The sun has the same effect on her, sweat drips down the side of her face and falls to the ground. Everything she’s ever done to me has me sitting back and enjoying every second of her fit. I can see her anger rising with my lack of response and it only makes this moment sweeter.“What’s the rush? Our guest of honor has arrived. We have more than enough time,” I said. “What do we even have to do?” I asked.“We’re going to be judging the others from higher ground,” Ava said.“You can’t be serious?” I laughed. When I looked at my sister the expression on her face answers that. She’s dead serious. “Why would we do that?” I asked.“It’s what anyone of high nobility does. Our guests have arrived and now we’ll go and judge them,” Ava said. She said it as if this explanation was enough to make me understand.“Skipping breakfast to greet guests is one thing. Continu
As soon as I’d taken my last bite my sister was on her feet. She barely ate any of her food. I’m sure the food wasn’t up to par with what she thought she deserved to eat. They weren’t even supposed to be cooking today. She should have just been thankful that they were there. Food that warms your belly is one of the little things in life that I look forward to. How did we grow up so different?I followed Ava as she walked out of the dining hall. The guards that had followed us out of my room were waiting outside. They stayed close as we headed toward one of the nearby buildings that was supposed to be used to entertain guests. We never really used this building, but Ava was walking toward it. I knew the large outdoor patio would be perfect for what she had in mind.As much as I’d hoped she would have given up on that part of the schedule I knew better. The guards opened the door and I followed her in. The building hadn’t been used but had servants to upkeep it. They’ve done a marvelous
Shane I’m woken with a kick to the chest. The wind is knocked out of me and I’m gasping for breath as hands come for me in different directions. It isn’t until they touch me and pull me to my feet that I realize I’m leaving this cell. The thought should give me a sense of relief but it doesn’t. Today is the day of the celebration and I’m too worried about her to care about myself. “Where are we going?” I grunt. I barely get the words out through great gulps of air. They don’t answer me, of course. I’ve lost so much blood the world is spinning. I can’t walk straight and fall until their hands hold me up. They drag me from the cell, my arms slide, and I suck in a breath as a burning sensation has me jerking away. Only to hit my other arm on the bars near it. “Fuck,” I hiss. “Stay still,” the guard demanded. “Where are you taking me?” I asked. “Alpha requested we move you to the Meeting Hall,” he answered. “Where the celebration is?” I asked. My eyes go wide as I realize they’re
It’s like I’m having an out-of-body experience as I make my way down the stairs. An oversized cloak wrapped around my shoulders and fell to the floor. Two guards followed me but I paid them no mind. I already know that Ethan will be waiting for me either at the bottom or outside the packhouse. I hope it’s the latter but. Dread makes its way up my body with every step I take.The handmaidens had been waiting for me in the bathroom down the hall. As much as I wanted to run screaming, I walked inside and they helped me undress. I had spent the last hour being washed and wiped down. Powdered and prepped for the second time today, I was thankful for the break from Ava.I was on the ground floor now and Ethan was nowhere in sight. I wouldn’t let myself hope, I knew he was somewhere around here. I walked to the front of the packhouse, the door opening as I grew closer, and Ava stood outside. One of our carriages was waiting at the bottom of the stairs.For someone who had spent hours bad-mou
The room had gone quiet as the visiting Alpha made his way down to me. He searched my gaze and when he saw the obedient partner he wanted he smiled. I could feel the frustration and jealousy coming off of Ava in waves. Based on the way she had dressed I knew she had expected a reaction from him. She huffed when he continued to stare at me.I hate him.I do too, Korra.Can you remind me why we’re being obedient?Because they have Shane, Korra, and… I can’t… I couldn’t live with myself if something happens to him.I couldn’t either, Adea.So work with me, please. We can’t do anything wrong tonight.“Greetings,” I murmured.“You look beautiful, My Queen,” Ethan said.He lowered his hand from my chin and I let my gaze trail down the length of his body. He wore a navy blue tailcoat trimmed with a black velvet collar and cuffs. The gold buttons twinkled and winked at me. The white shirt beneath had ruffles and was tight around the neck. Matching slacks with gold buttons were tight around hi
Shane Every step I took was painful. I could barely think, my thoughts weren’t forming. The only thing that kept me moving was Adea. The need to see her forced me forward. Two young guards ran up to me with worried expressions. The guards I killed must not have been found yet. This was the calm before the storm. No one knew I escaped yet, no one was aware that I was on my way to the celebration. I didn’t hesitate when they reached out to check on me. I snapped one’s neck and the other started to scream as I reached for him and snapped his too. Their crumpled forms lay on the ground as I stepped past them and into the hall. It’s packed but I don’t bother looking at anyone, I look forward to the area meant for the ranked members. I watch as the love of my life locks arms with another. I take a deep breath to keep myself from falling over. I reach out and grab the nearest thing to steady myself. A gasp alerts me to the fact that I’ve used a person to hold myself up. I let go as muffled
He takes another step closer and my world threatens to implode. I want nothing more than to scratch Ethan’s eyes out and run to Shane. I hate knowing that he could be misunderstanding this whole situation. When have I ever wanted Ethan? When have I ever wanted to be with him? A union? Anger bubbles and threatens to spill over as I wonder if Shane could even know me if he thinks that this is what I could want. I turn from him and Ethan follows me back to my seat. When I’m seated, I search for him in the crowd. My shoulders sag slightly. I don’t know if I should be worried or thankful that I can’t find him. Nevertheless, I let out a deep breath of relief when I don’t find him.My father grabs the goblet from the platter a servant offers him. He lifts it in the air and waits until cups are raised. He goes on about unions, daughters, and the future of the pack but I block him out.Ethan reaches over and grabs my hand. He leans back in his seat, his thumb swiping over my skin until I look
ShaneMy breathing sped up and my mouth dried up as she pressed her chest up against his. Pain stabbed my chest as she let him pull her closer. Jealousy chewed at me as she smiled at him the way she smiled at me. They danced and he was the envy of every man in attendance. Everything from his broad shoulders to her small frame as he contently held her in his arms. Someone commented on how great they looked together. I hated how perfectly they fit. I could give her what he could, I could give her what she deserved. He wasn’t the only one who could give her everything.I was attracting too much attention and had to do something about it. I made sure no one saw me as I sneaked into one of the empty rooms. I waited for my chance, I waited for a moment where I could talk to her. I ripped a curtain off of the nearest window. I was on the verge of passing out. This was going to hurt but I held my breath and moved before I could think and stop myself. I gritted my teeth as I dabbed at the bloo
Shane’s words are a shock to my system. Silence stretches between us, and I don’t know how long we sit there. I watched as he ran his lips against my knuckles before kissing the back of my hand. I can’t keep my eyes off of him, and as I stare at the side of his face, anger bubbles inside of me.What the hell is he thinking?Unlike the night I met him in this life, there’s no hate there. Shane emits love and patience, and if I hadn’t already spent the time that I had with him, I would have thought I was dreaming. His lashes are unfairly curled, his nose sharp, and as he straightens, I sigh as he runs his fingers through his hair. I don’t need memories of my past life to know that’s always been my favorite thing.Shane’s walls have come crumbling down, and now that I’ve got the man I love marked, and in bed with me, I can’t help but wonder why the fuck he’s here. His eyes meet mine and the corner of his lip pulls back until he flashes me with that panty-dropping smirk. Meanwhile, I’m st
Shadow ~ LivingstonCry ~ Benson BooneAdeaSilence. Absolute silence. I couldn’t even hear his breathing. One glance at his chest proved he hadn’t taken a breath since the words left my mouth. I waited for his answer, but his next breath was all I got before he lifted me up. Supporting my weight, he turned and walked to the sectional. With him leaning back, it felt good being in his arms for this conversation.“Of all the things you could ask…”“You said you’d answer anything,” I reminded.“I did.”“But not this?” I asked curiously.“I will. Just… give me a minute.”“Okay,” I breathed.Lowering my gaze, I gave him a second. My fingers danced along his defined abs as I waited. His chest rose and fell and I glanced up as he ran his hand through his hair. My favorite curl rebelliously dropping back into place on his forehead. His jaw ticked, and I wondered if it was that big of a deal for him to appear, what I would call, pissed.“You had come to stay with me. When I heard you were home
AdeaShane’s heat vibrated against mine. He fit perfectly. Everything had been going so well and now it felt like the ground beneath our feet was shaking. My natural instinct was to look at his lips, to reach out for him, to beg him to make it go away like he had in the truck on the way here. But the time for running had past, and this was a hurtle I couldn’t avoid.There was nothing that could make me feel better about this situation. Images of Shane fucking a multitude of faceless, hot, nameless women flashed one after the other through my mind. No one could make me question my self worth, but when it came to him, Goddess, it was impossible to see how I could ever be enough. Beka walking into the space that’s supposed to be mine set flame to the gasoline that lay at our feet. But, of course, instead of making it better, Shane outright admitted he’d been with women. I wanted to laugh. Knowing he’d probably never turned anyone down until today left a bitter taste in my mouth. It didn’
As soon as I came from the high Shane gave me, the anger came flooding back. And the bastard had the audacity to smile. I don’t know how he did it, but he saw everything. Well, I guess if we’d live multiple lives, he’d know everything about me. I didn’t understand why he could remember, while I couldn’t. His smirk turned into a shit-eating grin, pulling at both corners of his mouth, and my stomach flip-flopped. My pussy still spasmed in the aftermath of my orgasm, but Shane dropped his forehead to mine and laughed. I pushed against his chest, but with a twist of the wrist; I moaned and jerked against him. His shirt was soaked, and I spat it out. It was warm and wet where it fell against my thigh.Bastard.“What’s so fucking funny?” I snapped. Quickly, I swiped at the drool on my chin. The two parts of me waged a war; the one that loved him and the one that resented him. One second I was gushing for him and the next I wanted to punch the ass. His shoulders shook as he pulled his fingers
Shane’s eyes held mine and I tracked the movement of his tongue as it slid along his bottom lip. His head dipped as he lowered himself, as if he couldn’t get close enough. And I watched as he ran his hard, flat tongue up my spread lips. I fought the urge to close my eyes and throw my head back. The need to revel in the pleasure Shane gave me was strong, but I couldn’t. His eyes darkened as he closed his mouth and his throat bobbed. And I was thankful I kept my eyes on him. His lashes fluttered as he savored my taste. Shane was more beautiful than the paintings hanging on the wall. He was a work of art and I could stare at him for hours, days, weeks; however long I could.“More,” I demanded.A rumbling sound sent goosebumps down my arms. My lips parted as his mouth opened and his pink tongue darted out. My thighs shook as I watched it flick over my clit. I widened my legs; needy for more, so much more. My fingers curled against his scalp and I pulled on his hair. Willing him to give me
Aphrodite ~ Sam ShortInstinct told me I needed to protect myself. The need to wrap my arms around myself was strong, but Shane was everywhere. He lifted me and I wrapped my legs around his waist. My hands rested on his chest. He pressed a kiss to my hair, my forehead, my nose. Even as I wanted to escape this wretched feeling in my chest, I couldn’t help but burrow closer. My lashes fluttering to a close as he murmured my name. I swallowed the lump in my throat and let my hands fall as he placed me on the table.The sweet happiness that made me so giddy I ran from him was gone. And in its place a small hole. Pettiness, anger, and jealousy clawed at my chest. His shirt had ridden up less than an inch more and I would be on full display. My gaze trailed up the ridges and dips of his abdomen. Beneath the light, I noticed the light markings of scars on the back of his biceps and arms. Muscles turned to broad shoulders, but my gaze locked on my mark.Shane is mine.Always has been.Always
Go to Hell ~ LetdownAdeaThe silence was deafening. It was so still, you could hear a pin drop. Just an arm’s length away, his slow breaths filled the silence as Shane hovered behind me. I refused to look at him just yet. My emotions waged war within me. Did I want to yell or cry? I needed a moment. Closing my eyes, I took several deep breaths, trying and failing to calm myself down.Breathe in.1…2…3…4…Hold.1…2…3…4…Exhale.1…2…3…4…The damn breathing thing thing wasn’t working. Back when Gabe and I first came here, he taught me this breathing technique to help with my panic attacks. Instead of pushing thoughts of him away, it did the opposite. Every time I inhaled, I got lungfuls of Shane, his presence surrounded me. Demolishing the wall of safety I tried so hard to build up. As if he heard the wall come tumbling down, he stepped closer. The heat came off of him in waves, cutting through the short distance and caressed me. It was so hard to be mad at him, but my mind and
My skin heated, and it felt as if my blood were boiling. I don’t know which part I was more angry about. This woman being here in my space, the supposed plan to remove her from the premises, or the way Shane called her name. Was it a nickname? Maybe it was all the above that truly pissed me off. My gaze locked with Gabe’s and I gave him the ‘Am I the only one insane here?’ look, but he just shook his head reassuringly. So either I wasn’t, or the two of us were both equally crazy. Turning my focus back to Beka, I waited impatiently for what she’d say. My lip curled as she softened her eyes and pouted.“When you didn’t come back, I was worried. On top of that, you didn’t answer any of my texts.” She hunched her shoulders, making herself appear smaller. We’re taught this at a young age to show an aggressive male we were weak and meant no harm. My skin crawled as she leaned into him, invading his space. I bit back the whine in my throat as my insecure thoughts swirled through my mind.Is s
I am not okay ~ Jelly RollAdeaKorra caught her scent before I could, and she was seething. Alarm bells were going off. There was a female in our mate’s suite. I didn’t know when it happened, but we had claimed not only Shane, but this area as ours. Only those we allowed were permitted to be here, and this woman wasn’t supposed to be here. My wolf snarled and snapped her fierce jaws at the uninvited guest. Normally, I can keep her under control, but right now, it felt like we were one and the same.Her anger, her hate, her pain, her need to draw blood—all of it was mine.My eyes trailed up from her red Jimmy Choos, along her thin yet muscular legs, to the white skirt that left nothing to the imagination, past her breasts that were barely covered by an uncountable number of diamonds. Red-kissed lips with a perfect cupid’s bow jutted out in a pout that matched her heels, blue eyes that instantly zoned in on Shane, and too-straight princess blonde hair flowed down her back.Still, she wo