“Hey, Ember, you hear me?” Robert’s voice broke in to her thoughts. “Ember are the lights on and no one home?” He laughed at his own joke. As a big man you could tell that he loved his beer and meat. With his red hair and a freckled, rough face he carried the strong fisherman look well.
“I’m here Robert. Just must be out of it tonight.” Turning her head to face him fully.
“Your usual?”
“Yes, please.” Her usual being a water that everyone thought was a vodka on ice. Gotta keep up appearances Robert always said. Men seemed to like to think the girls drank so they might have a better chance of going home with one of their fantasies. Felt more like a party to them instead of a bunch of women trying to pay the bills. They would then spend more hoping that they would find a girl that would be interested in them. It was a sad life that she watched unfold every night she was there.
All of a sudden, a hand came down smacking hard on her behind. Stupid, she should have been paying attention, what is wrong with her tonight? She turned around and punched the guy straight in the jaw. He staggered but didn’t go down. Robert is grabbing his bat and yelling behind the bar for security. The stupid idiot who touched her was coming towards her again obviously drunk and cussing that no little girl can punch him. He grabbed her hair to lift her off her feet just as a hand shot between them and encircled his throat.
“Let the girl go now.” It was the man who had startled her from before. The drunken man’s hands fell to his side. Ember was hoping no one could see the smoke coming off of him. She waved her hands very low trying to shoo the smoke away. The angry man’s face was turning colors.
“You will leave this place and never return.” Whispered to the man so low only Ember seemed to hear. He sounded deadly, but his voice caught at something inside of her. She kept her hair in her face and peeked out to see what was happening. Robert was asking her if she was ok and telling her he was sorry, that he should have cut that man off a while ago, but she was too busy watching this man nearly choke the angry giant man without a hair out of place to listen. He let the man go to watch him stumble his way to the door whimpering.
The strange man who had come up to help noticed she was shaking and asked Robert if there was somewhere he could take her to check her hand for injuries. I’m not sure why Robert was going along with this, but the sooner she could get out of the crowd and get her control back was better. She really was close to engulfing in flames if they didn’t hurry. After asking Helen for a bar towel filled with ice Robert led them to the office and she sat down. The strange man began looking at her hand.
“Ember, you going to be, ok? I got to get that crowd under control out there.” Robert asked while eyeing the guy that was now kneeled down studying Ember’s hand.
Nodding her head yes. Robert gave the man a long look and before leaving the room to go get the bar back under control. Seething at the company but needing to find her center she ignored everything and concentrated on her breathing. In and out. Cool waves. Flowing water. Ice caves.
Keegan didn’t know what he was doing trying to look at the young girl’s hand. This was strangely out of character for him and his sister would have a field day with this after Hanson tells her what he did. Something was tugging at him to care for her though and she smelled wonderful. The girl was small and shaking, but she didn’t seem hurt. She just kept her eyes closed and was taking slow breaths. The girl sure knew how to throw a punch. The behemoth’s face was already starting to swell when he sent him on his way.
In the small office he knelt down which still brought him eye level with the girl.
“I’m not going to hurt you, but can you look at me? I want to be sure you are, ok?” He whispered not wanting to scare her any more than she already was. She had to be terrified after that experience.
Slowly she lifted her lashes and a shot went straight threw him. The fear he expected wasn’t there but flames were. This wasn’t a normal girl. She looked dangerous with the fire in her eyes. He stepped back. Mate. Mate. Mate. He was speechless, struggling to form words.
Her hand shot out and grabbed him. “Say nothing. Be still. You are not safe yet, no one is. I need to get in the fresh air.” Smoke was coming off of her again compelling him. He recognized that power now.
Taking a deep breath, he finally said, “I’ll get you out, but then you will talk.” He picked her up and started towards the back door adding steel behind his voice. She was too busy counting to notice it seemed though. She should have been scared of a stranger carrying her out of the club, but there was power running through her and her skin was burning hot. What was she?
Into the parking lot, they went out the back entrance. She expected him to stop there, but he kept walking until he was next to a very sleek black car. He easily maneuvered her to open the door for her to seat on the seat. He then faced away from her, opening his jacket, and stood in front of the door. Ok, weirdo, she thought silently to herself. As she began to gain more control over herself in the cooler air though, she realized she was outside in her outfit and that was why he was standing like that. He was still protecting her. Funny most men wouldn’t even think of what she was wearing with everything else going on. The slithering, glitter top and skirt was deep green that went well with her hair. The straps for the top
After listening to an uninteresting argument between a couple of the girls concerning why they were not attracting the attention they deserved tonight. Ember finished tying up my black worn sneakers. Done for the night all she wanted was a long shower to cool herself off and to cleanse the sleaze off myself. The men were on the way out the front door after emptying their pockets and some of their bank accounts to Ember on stage.Feeling sorry for the other girls, but knowing after she’s gone their money will go back to normal. It’s not an easy life they live. Yeah, some of them, mostly the really young ones that won’t last long, are just here for the excitement and the easy cash. The others though they have kids to take care of, schools to attend, and debts they must pay. They found themselves in a situation they couldn’t help. Money makes the world go round, right? Some of these would move on from this life soon.Unfortunately, for a girl like
Keegan had watched her walk back inside in his rearview mirror as he pulled out of the parking lot. It turned his insides to think of all those lush curves being seen by others than him. In all these years no one had ever sparked this type of reaction from him. Finding your mate truly was one of the most spectacular feelings a wolf could ever have. He had just dropped Chris back at his sister’s, due to the promise he had made. He had slight indigestion after shoveling the meal at Stella’s in his mouth as quick as possible. Hanson and Roderick played along since they could tell he was on edge. Keegan only knew he needed to see her again and solve the mystery of her. She didn’t smell like a wolf, but she didn&rsquo
“Melody, can you please stop being underfoot?” Ember prayed for the third time after almost breaking her next because her adorable cat was not amused with her packing things and running between her feet seemed like the best type of revenge. Luckily, she had just placed the last bit by the door. Pretty sad that her whole life came down to two boxes and two duffle bags. Oh right, she reminded herself as she turned towards the bedroom. Plus, the giant box monstrosity that was her bed.It needs to go in the SUV first. She had already moved the backseat down before walking in. Picking up Melody she moved her to her little travel kennel. No way was she risking another fall while carrying this thing. Also, keeping Melody out of the way and safe.“Sorry, girl, I know you’re not happy about this either. Maybe we’ll head somewhere with a lake, and I’ll catch you a fish. Sound good?”&nbs
Keegan couldn’t stop his laugh when he saw her face after carefully putting the box in her trunk. He pulled it in quick though when she went from that stunned look to angry. Even in a tiff she was gorgeous. He turned towards her but fought the urge to smooth the grimace off her face with his fingertips.“So, honey, you going to tell me what you are?”“No, I’m in a hurry. Please leave and for future knowledge it is extremely rude and creepy to follow any girl home. No matter the type of employment she has.” Ember started taking steps backwards as she spoke.Keegan needed to calm her down. He could tell she was about to run. Skittish was probably an understatement when describing her. He could tell it was really unnerving her that her smoke wasn’t working on him. Maybe he should just come out first and tell her what he was?“If it makes you feel better we can sit and I’ll tell you
Did this crazy stalker dude just say mate? Ember couldn’t believe her ears. Her time in the facility she had overheard the term werewolf from some of the white coats. Standing back awkwardly she looked up at his face.“What’s your name, stalker dude?” Tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. She turned and went to grab another box. Best to act normal and get everything in the car while she could. Looking over her shoulder to keep him in her line of sight she hand to laugh.He had a very large hand covering his face while he was hunched over. Goodness, his hands were huge. If she was hearing him correctly he was mumbling to himself. Besides seeing this hulk acting embarrassed it was that she was pretty sure he was calling himself a colossal idiot. It was really kind of cute.He lowered his hand when he heard me laughing. Squinting his eyes and he glared for a moment before joining my laughter with his deep one. “Your laug
This man must be insane. Nice and good-looking, but insane. She tried sending her smoke around him again, but he put out his fingers to twirl them around, playing with it.“So, what is this? The smoke you send out is really pretty and smells so good. Why couldn’t the humans see it.” Keegan asked.“I have no idea what you are talking about. But to answer your first question I’m leaving and, I guess since you helped me pack I can drop you off somewhere.” Ember turned the ignition and pulled out of the driveway.“Leaving on a trip? That sounds nice. I haven’t had a vacation in a long time. I’m
He told the truth. Someone was pulling out of the parking lot with his car waving. Looking at the time on her dash it was almost 4:30 in the morning. Ember didn’t think he would have someone picking up his car that quick. She was ready to lose her mind.“No, I don’t. Look, I’m trying to be nice. I was bringing you to your car. I have plans and need to be on the road.” She answered him while trying not to grit her teeth.“When I looked at you my wolf knew you were my mate. It may be hard to understand, but you have to have something pretty special about you for you to be able to pair with a werewolf. Not to mention an Alpha. That’s why I’m curious about what you are.”He was speaking to her in such an intense way. It was hard not to fall into his voice. “That and I’d like to know the person who I hope that I can convince to spend their life with me.”Finally tearing her gaz
Knowing that the house from her dreams was real troubled Ember. Everything always burned in her dream, so if it was real, how could it be still standing? Maybe it’s a different house that just sounded the same? Lots of houses in the South have honeysuckle vines. The internal dialog was going nowhere. The grip returned to her hand. That’s right, Ember thought, someone else was with her. She had agreed to accept help. It was strange, listening to others discuss something that had plagued her for as long as she could remember. Realizing she had spent almost a whole day with the man next to her was also strange. She should feel weird, but having him there felt right. Like, she was moving towards something, instead of just running away. Finding out that Robert wasn’t a regular human was surprising, but Ember was used to rolling with the punches. Maybe she just needed to realiz
“I’m sure y’all have heard the stories about Aphrodite, the goddess of love, and her son Cupid. They could spread love, but, also, lust or obsession.” Robert leaned his elbows on the bar and rubbed his forehead. “The lust and obsession part became a problem because of Aphrodite’s jealousy, spite fullness, whatever you want to call it,” Rolling his eyes skyward and waving a hand, he continued, “and her son’s willingness to please his mother. It created a problem with the other Gods. Then all hell broke loose when Hera found out Zeus was letting them off the hook because Cupid was using lust on humans Zeus found attractive a few times. I mean the stupidity of some people.”
Keegan enjoyed showing Ember around the community after convincing her that Melody would be fine staying behind in her room. Ember seemed to enjoy seeing the training grounds. Keegan knew he shouldn’t have felt jealous, because of the bond, but her not being a wolf left him a little concerned. That was until he learned her fascination was due to her love of dancing. She was impressed with how in sync everyone moved with each other. Several of the men and women training came over to meet the future Luna before Keegan dismissed them with the promise to return at a different time. Seeing the hopeful look on his mate's face, he asked her if she would like to train with him the next morning. They were now sitting in one of the back booths at his restaurant, enjoying a quick appetizer, while waiting for Terry. Ember jumped at the idea.
Seeing his sister’s submission, Keegan tried to calm himself. This was something that should have been brought to his attention though. Even if it was a rumor, it would need to be investigated. Terry knew that they couldn’t take any risks when it came to pack safety.“What did you hear?” Keegan said through clenched teeth.“I’m sorry, Keegan, I really didn’t t
Keegan tried to stop Terry, but realizing it was useless, he chose to just brace Ember and her chair. He should have realized his tender-hearted sister was going to turn into a bawling mess. Hell, he even had trouble listening to Ember talk about her past. At least he was able to focus on his anger at her situation instead of bawling like his sister. Poor Ember looked like a deer caught in headlights. Luckily, instead of igniting Terry into flames, she looked like she was, very awkwardly, patting her back. Then, before he knew it, Terry stood up and began pacing the kitchen. Ranting about the atrocities of some people. Her face was red with tears and anger, proclaiming that they’d have to go through her to ever see Ember again. Keegan couldn’t contain it when the laughter bubbled up out of him. “Keegan! How dare you laugh at a time like this! I’ll show them not to mess with this she-wolf’s sister-in-law!” Terry’s words were becoming rough and sounding mo
Sitting at the small table in Keegan’s kitchen nook. Half-listening to the brother and sister’s chatter about the budgets and stocking needed for one of the bars they own. An older lady, named Ilene, had sat plates of delicious smelling bacon, eggs, and toast in front of everyone when they had first sat down, but after devouring it all, Ember was trying to decide what her next move would be. Strange as it was, she didn’t feel like leaving Keegan behind. Besides those strange electric tingles, she gets every time they touch, it was the intense look in Keegan’s eyes when he said he would help. Ember had never had anyone help her with anything. It was always just her. Alone. From her earliest memories, Ember had been placed in that little room by herself. No one to help her dress, eat or brush her teeth. They gave her instructions that she had to follow. Punishments if she didn’t. Ember had heard screams from other patients but was never allowed to see them. The only information she re
Her taste was exquisite. Ember was melting into him. Keegan was struggling to find control. Her scent was addicting. Comforting him and exciting him all at once. Reminding him of the smell of a burning fire on a cold winter night with hot chocolate and peppermint. Keegan could feel the beat of her heart matching his. “Meerrroww!” Suddenly, a squirming ball of black fur pushed its way out of the middle of them. Announcing her frustration at being squished. Melody flicked her tail as she jumped off the bed. Breaking apart and breathing heavily, Ember stared into Keegan’s eyes. Thankful to see that they were sharing the same struggle. Keegan touched his forehead to hers and pressed a kiss on the tip of her nose. Ember looked so confused. “I’ll help you. We’ll solve this together. You don’t have to run. Promise me that you won’t run. Even though there’s nothing wolves love more than a game of chase, I
Placing her head in her hands, Ember wondered why she was doing this? Keegan had a strange pull on her, especially when he looked at her with those dark, intense eyes. Was she really his mate or was the loneliness of her life finally getting to her? “Melody, what do I do?” The little cat rubs her head beneath Ember’s chin in comfort before settling in her lap. “I guess I’ve got nothing to lose by telling him.” Looking into the slanted eyes of her best friend. “Except you, but I’ll burn it all to the ground before losing you too. I promise.” “I promise too, Ember. I won’t let anything happen to you or her.” Keegan’s voice had Ember lifting her head to find him standing in the doorway. Freshly dressed in a pair of dark slacks and a light blue dress shirt. The top couple of buttons were not closed and he was still barefooted, but he just radiated confidence as he looked at her.
The muffled screams wake Keegan. Instantly awake he rushes to the door leading to Ember’s room. Finding it locked Keegan pulls harshly and the door frame breaks. Falling to pieces. Not caring about the mess Keegan rushes into the bedroom. He could feel the urging of his wolf to protect his mate. Trying to locate where the screaming was coming from. They were already quieting though. His eyes landed on the box that had been moved to the furthest corner of the room. Ember’s cat was sitting on top, tail up, and arching her back hissing in Keegan’s direction. Realizing how feral he must look with his wolf so close to the surface and his sudden entrance had the cat in protection mode. The screams had stopped. Slowing his breathing he lowered to a knee and spoke as softly as his wolf would allow with his hand out.“Don’t worry little one. I’m not going to hurt your momma. She scared me.”The li