My hands are warming up. They are chilly. He gingerly undid her shirt, revealing her bandaged wounds and left breast. "Let me know if anything hurts or is sore." His manner was professional if not a touch tense.She shivered, terrified that the pain might be as severe as before.He removed the tape from the pads' edges and carefully examined the incisions. The feeling is, "How does it feel?""Itching and some burning."He placed the used bandages in the wastepaper basket while nodding. He used such a delicate touch to apply some ointment to the bullet holes that it tickled. She struggled to smile, but she couldn't help it. She had no desire to convey that she was not angry with him.His mouth curled up as a result of seeing her look. Guess it doesn't hurt.Her lips were pursed. “Tickling.”Be finished in one minute. With the edge of his hand, he lightly brushed her already tense nipple as he placed the new pad over the incisions and taped it down.It's becoming cold, she tersely remar
Steps got closer. Jake flashed her a smug smirk as the door opened and he buttoned his shirt. "I am back. Thought I had the rest of the night off, but…" He made a shrug. The morning will be a nightmare with Danielle around.If she couldn't stop thinking about what she wanted with her sister's mate and couldn't have it, she would be a nightmare to live in the morning.Lucian was shocked by how Ravena had gotten under his skin. How was it possible for him to give in to her so easily and completely? She-devil.He tossed and turned for an hour, enraged at himself for losing control. He made a mistake by kissing her. But he also had trouble forgetting the kiss they had shared. Even though he repeatedly told himself he couldn't have her until she was ready, everything inside of him felt alive again when she touched him.More angry than ever, he raked his hands through his hair. He didn't get out of bed until he heard two sets of footsteps moving toward his bedroom. Slow, deliberate, and unh
Sam strode into the kitchen and grinned widely at Ravena. "You look good," I said. A bundle of mail was given to Lucian. Is Silva present?Jake said, "Upstairs sleeping in my bed. Sam seems a little distressed. We're playing musical beds, Jake continued. My final guard duty was. While I was on call, she slept in my bed.“Oh. For the important opening ceremony, I need her. The first fifty clients get free drinks.Jake pointed to the first bedroom on the right. "Last night, we roused her six times and forced her to move. Be my guest; I don't want to bother her again. Sam held back.Leandi got up. "I'll go get her."Sam is able. Eat to regain your strength. Lucian grimaced as he pulled an envelope from the desk.Ravena sat down in the chair once more. To what end? So that I may remain here and watch soap operas all day? Even the fair is off-limits to me.Sam suggested that Silva and she help him and her distribute the complimentary sodas. "We'd keep an eye on her."Yes, that would be enj
The jade stones glowed brightly with hatred. He couldn't hold her responsible. His body yearned for vengeance. Never in his pack would a lupus garou touch a woman like that and get away with it. He wanted to grab her in his arms since she appeared so helpless, but he stopped for a moment. He feared that if he tried to comfort her, she would stop speaking. He needed to hear her entire account.He couldn't even bear to look at her without taking action. She appeared prepared to leave as he got up from his chair. He took a few long strides across the floor, grasped her hand, and then sat down next to her.Because she appeared to be so peaked, he wanted to grasp her tightly and offer her all of his power, but her back remained stiff. He chose to hold her hand while sitting next to her on the leather loveseat."Ravena, tell me everything."She shouldn't have been subjected to the beast's brutal treatment. When my sister passed away, Crassus promised to claim me as his own. The danger wasn'
Lucian wanted to take off his shirt and run her fingers over his bare chest and face to caress every inch of him while he touched her, just like the man had done with her in her ideal world, but I shoved her away instead. She checked to be sure he wasn't the dreamy figure.But between her legs, liquid heat collected, and fire filled her stomach. No Lupus Garou had ever grinned so seductively, and no Lupus Garou had ever ignited her blood the way he did.“It’s…” She intended to inform him that it wasn't proper. He only desired to rediscover the love he had previously shared with her sister. He didn't genuinely want her.But he put his hand over her mouth to silence her protests. Greedily, hungrily, and blatantly kissed her as if she were the last woman in the world and he had been without a woman for years.Her breathing became faster. She recognized his feel, hardness, power, and the delicate way he caressed her and claimed her now that she was no longer in agony or taking medication
Ravena prayed that he would use his engorged erection soon as he pushed his fingers deep within her, extracting every feeling and stoking her hunger as he left one last thread untied. Then an orgasmic convulsion of her inside muscles followed by a flood of heat swept through her. He gave her a contented smile as his fingers stopped moving inside of her.Oh my God, she arrived with only his fingers inside of her. She shouted out his name with a quiet sigh as sweet pleasure swept through her, relishing that she could finally utter it without being stifled like in the dream.She adored observing Lucian's deep enjoyment and how much he delighted in making her feel good. But until they had really mated, they weren't finished.Finally, you know me, he said softly in her ear. I'm currently taking a turn. He had a roguish twinkle in his eyes. She was also prepared.Ravena, the thunder god, was stunning. When she assumed control, Lucian wanted to chuckle. However, he rapidly gave up and melted
Ravena inhaled deeply. "I can still picture myself as a small girl wearing the cage. I can't picture wearing that again. And the hideous corsets as well.“Sure. It's a piece of our history and legacy. We held a Victorian Era Day to commemorate the founding of our town even before we began the fair. Additionally, a train travels through the highlands and offers half-off admission to anyone wearing historical garb. It appears that many travelers were well-prepared this year. Silva added, pointing at a stand, "Hostene, Lucian's accountant at the factory, is renting costumes for the day for those who don't have one and want to fit in." Silva touched the arm of Ravena. You don't have to rent one, though. I have the ideal attire for you.Ravena recalled their altercation in the tavern's washroom, "Good because I wouldn't pay any money to that woman," he claimed.David snorted. The tavern already has a friendly crowd waiting for their free drinks. Anything given away for free causes a riot.
Ravena stepped away from the woman but grabbed the attention of a dark-haired man sipping a Coke and watching her every move. He wasn't dressed up either, just in a sweater, turtleneck, and a pair of jeans. But it was the way he looked at her that caused her pause. She inhaled deeply and inhaled his aroma. A gray. And he'd overheard her talk with Carol.His face was solemn, and he eventually laid his glass down and leaned against the bar closer to her. Joe rose from his seat, but one of his buddies grabbed his arm and shook his head. Joe returned to his seat, scowling."Nothing is what it appears to be, miss. Just keep an eye on your step." The man's voice was kind yet enigmatic.Trevor approached him and muttered lowly, "Move along."The man's lips lifted coyly, then he nodded to Ravena, took his drink, and walked over to one of the tables."Who exactly is that?" In quiet tones, Ravena inquired of Sam.He cast a peek at the gray's seat at the table. "McKinley, Chester." He's visiting
They joined the gathering, their voices harmonizing with those around them. The talk moved well, touching on subjects ranging from environmental sustainability to social justice and the significance of community involvement.Lucian and Ravena were enthralled by the many perspectives and experiences that each individual offered. They learned that dialogues could question prejudices, extend horizons, and drive action.During the lively conversation, they drew the attention of a young lady called Maya, whose desire for education and empowerment struck a chord with them. Maya brought Lucian and Ravena to a local community center where she was active, so they could experience directly the changing dialogues that went place.Lucian and Ravena enthusiastically accepted the offer since it piqued their interest. When they arrived at the community center, they were met with a colorful mosaic of people from many origins and walks of life. Conversations filled the air as people gathered in circle
Lucian and Ravena's life grew linked with the rhythm of their new house in the months that followed. They went on additional excursions, discovered hidden jewels in the city, and formed stronger bonds with their buddies.Lucian sat on a park bench one bright day, absorbed in a chat with their buddy, Marcus, an imaginative architect recognized for his futuristic creations. Lucian's eyes expanded with interest as they examined the potential of architecture to affect human experiences."Imagine, Marcus, if our conversations with buildings could go beyond mere aesthetics," Lucian pondered."What if we could create spaces that invite dialogue, encourage connection, and inspire moments of contemplation?"Marcus leaned back and focused his sight on the horizon. "Ah, Lucian, you've hit on a brilliant concept. Architecture has the ability to be a silent storyteller, a conduit for dialogues between people and their environment. It has the ability to stimulate emotions, encourage thinking, and s
Outside the center, the effects of these discussions began to spread across Crestwood. Murals that honored diversity and unity decorated the walls. Local companies grew as the community embraced the concept of helping one another achieve their goals. Sustainability and environmental stewardship discussions sparked efforts that changed the town into an eco-friendly paradise.Crestwood's reputation as a gathering place for important talks extended far and wide, attracting guests from all over the world. The center became a meeting place for artists, philosophers, scientists, and visionaries, who participated in thought-provoking debates that stretched the bounds of knowledge and imagination.The commitment of Lucian and Ravena to discussion went beyond the center. They developed annual festivals to celebrate dialogues via music, poetry, and performance art. The air was alive with anticipation as individuals from all over the world descended on Crestwood, eager to engage in talks that ch
They were at a noisy café one beautiful afternoon, drinking cups of delicious coffee and indulging in spirited banter with their pals Amelia, Ethan, and Lily. Laughter rang through the air as they told tales and shared dreams, their chats a tapestry of pleasure and inspiration."Have you heard the legend of the hidden treasure, buried deep within the outskirts of Crestwood?" Amelia leaned closer, her eyes flashing with malice.Ethan's curiosity peaked. "Treasure? "Please tell us more!"Amelia gave a cheeky look. "According to legend, centuries ago, a group of adventurers hid their precious treasure somewhere in the wilderness surrounding Crestwood." It is supposed to contain unfathomable wealth and undiscovered secrets."Lucian's eyes twinkled with delight. "Imagine the stories that treasure could hold, the history that it could unlock!"Ravena nodded, her voice full of excitement. "Perhaps it's time for us to become adventurers ourselves, uncovering the mysteries and treasures of Cre
Lucian and Ravena found refuge in their alone while traveling, seeking strength and comfort in one another. Their talk became reflective one evening as they sat by a crackling campfire under a starlit sky."I never imagined our lives would be filled with such extraordinary events," Ravena said, her voice laced with apprehension. "However, I would not trade this life for anything." Our love, our mission—everything seems perfect."Lucian grabbed for her hand, his eyes filled with adoration. "You are my mooring, Ravena. You provide me with direction and clarity in this chaotic world. We have produced something wonderful together—a pack that serves as a light of hope."Ravena smiled, her heart swelled with love. "And you, Lucian, personify strength and resilience. I am inspired by your unrelenting drive, knowing that we are facing these obstacles together."The approach of a pack member, their countenance bringing warning of an approaching peril, cut short their intimate moment. Lucian an
“No.”"You don't even know what I was going to say.""You'd have to leave for college." So no.” His dark gaze challenged her as he rapidly stripped her naked."I can do it online." A psychologist had to go from Green Valley to assist Freya." Ravena stroked her fingers through Lucian's silky hair, but his stern look told her he wasn't buying her pitch."I'm still saying no." He yanked his shirt off.“Why?”He got out of bed and took off his boots and slacks. "I don't want you to be talking to crazy people." Returning to her bed, he leaned forward and stroked her breast. "They may fall in love with their doctor, believing she loves them because she listens to their concerns and cares about them." And one as lovely as you..." He made a shaky motion with his head."I could help people deal with grief and various anxieties." "I need to get some work done."His hand slid to her tummy, and he gently massaged her. "You'll have plenty of things to do."She snarled.He mumbled. "OK, OK. Get you
Ravena instinctively sprang for Sheridan's throat and grasped hold. She felt Lucian brush up against her side, attempting to reach Sheridan, but she couldn't release go for fear of the gray killing her next. Sheridan released Leidolf and gripped Ravena's throat in the time it took a bolt of lightning to strike the earth. He would murder her like he did her sister, and in doing so, he would remove Lucian's motivation to live.Lucian gripped his uncle's neck with his massive teeth before she could fear or feel Sheridan's jaws clamping down tighter, blocking the air from flowing. He crushed the bone and the vitality out of the gray by biting down hard.Sheridan's grip on Ravena's neck eased, and they both slumped. She lay still when she landed on her side, attempting to catch her breath. But it got worse, and she couldn't help but feel completely embarrassed. Despite the cold, Lucian instantly shifted into his human form and placed his palm over the cut on her throat. “Carol!”Leidolf nu
Trevor had hired the shooter who killed Ravena, Tom, and Sam. Before anybody could question him, he emerged on the ridge and murdered the gunman. What is the motivation, you ask? He aspired to be the sheriff. He believed that his sister mating with me would assure him of that status in the future. However, some may have heard whispers that Freya's children were not my own, and when Ritka confirmed this to Trevor, he devised this blackmail plot. The money was located in a bank account in Trevor's name in Green Valley thanks to the sheriff's investigation."Trevor gave the sheriff a dagger glance.Lucian made a move to Chester. "P.I. Chester McKinley, acting on our behalf, assisted in uncovering this treachery." The puzzle pieces all fit together. Trevor was a prisoner living on borrowed time." Lucian's spine tensed and his eyes glowed with a ferocious glitter.But Trevor didn't appear to be a convicted man, which made Ravena suspect that Lucian and he had staged the whole thing."Excep
Silva mumbled something and rushed out of the kitchen. Carol took a little longer to realize that the alpha leader wanted some alone time with his partner. Her cheeks reddened, and she hastily excused herself and dashed after Silva, closing the door behind her."Why didn't you say something to me?" she reprimanded outside the kitchen.Lucian leaned on Ravena's shoulders. "You have a cinnamon, apple, and brown sugar scent to you." "Delicious enough to eat." He slipped his tongue into her mouth and kissed her lips without waiting for her assent. "Hmm, it tastes like brown sugar, apples, and cinnamon, too."She dissolved like the butter dabs she'd sprinkled on top of the lattice-work pie crusts. "Have you seen anyone who has bite marks?"He sighed. “Ravena…” He made a shaky motion with his head. "I'm afraid Angelina didn't bite her as hard as she should have, or the scar has already healed." It doesn't matter. We have him where we want him. I've felt the gap between us the previous two d