"Let's get to the cabin," Cody said. "Who needs a ride?""Let's take the other sled, but for now, we'll pull Caitlin." We'll use the other sled if anyone else gets tired." Ravena attempted to return Caitlin's gloves, but she shook her head."I'm going to keep my hands in my pockets." To go through the snowdrifts, you'll need the gloves." Caitlin bit her lower lip, as if another shard of anguish had slashed her calf.Ravena nodded, brushing snowflakes away from the girl's cheeks."Let's get this party started. "We'll be frozen statues in no time," Anthony said."What exactly were you doing out here?" Minx inquired of Ravena.Ravena wrapped her arms around herself in an attempt to warm up. "I'm attempting to go to town. "I had a mishap." "Oh, so that's why you've got a gash on your head." "Do you know how to get there?""Before I heard your voices, I smelled chimney smoke coming from that direction." Ravena moved her hand into the glaring white bleakness."There's the cottage!" Cody sta
They stared at Tom, who had a grimace on his face. "I'll notify Lucian." We spotted their truck and it appears that we know where they're going." He took a breather. "The truck is stuck in the ditch and buried in snow about a mile south of Lucian's house." Tom turned to face Lucian. "Ravena is still missing." Okay, OK. We'll notify you if we discover someone." He put his phone in his pocket. "Anthony, Sr. stated that they went sledding and were late returning home." Peter summoned him to assist in the hunt for Ravena, so he's leaving, but his wife will remain at home awaiting word on the boys. Furthermore, the sixteen-year-old twin females who joined our group were among the lads.""Hell," Lucian said. "Go get some flashlights." They may be able to detect them. We'll investigate the abandoned cabin. Call Uncle Sheridan and inform him we've found several missing teenagers. He'll need to report that the girls are with the lads, that they've abandoned the car, and that they're walking so
Doc Oliver sighed. His skin was sickeningly pale. Ravena crept up to him. Ritka had passed out, and Carol had disappeared. Ravena pulled up Doc's blouse, intending to dig out the bullet with her fingertips, but Joe held her back. Her scalp was burning with pain. "Time to go.""No!" she cried, desperately wanting to save Doc, and fought at Joe's fingers to break free.Joe grabbed her arm and yanked her up to the window."You hadn't done anything wrong up to this point. "How come now?" Ravena strained to break free from his hard hold, attempting to keep her tears at bay. She couldn't break down now.Carol peered through the doorway, her cell phone pressed to her ear."Get the nurse and Doc the bullets!" They're going to murder them. Don't wait for assistance!" Ravena yelled, praying the jerk wouldn't shoot her as well.Joe pushed Ravena through the window, and she landed in the snow. He climbed after her before she could react, then aimed through the glass at Carol. Ravena rushed to her
Lucian was certain that everyone knew he wouldn't. He ran through the tunnel portions he could, but he soon got to a spot where he had to crawl. The aroma of Freya and Ravena lingered in the passageway. When he scented Ravena's terror, he gritted his teeth. Joe was also giving off a panicky odor. Good. Lucian hoped he was shaking with terror. Damned cowardly man lupus garou who needed a weapon to protect himself. Lucian's gut churned at the thought of Freya being here with Joe.He crawled on his hands and knees into the tiny, low-ceiling tunnel, seeing Ravena's flesh being ripped apart by the rough-edged pebbles. Joe, you're a jerk. Freya, how could she have done it? He would have witnessed whatever damage she had sustained. Unless they normally enter another method. Sure. Sam claimed that the other tunnel was easier to navigate. Joe had used the cave nearest to town this time since he was hoping to evade Lucian and his men.When Lucian arrived at the cave, he climbed out, but there w
"I'm truly sorry for what my sister did to you, Lucian.""Don't be like that. Everything is in the past." His tongue touched her frigid lips. "Just be glad we found each other."He completed assisting her in undressing, her body shivering from the cold air. Then he immediately pressed her between the plush furs and himself.The furs were soft, dry, and warm against Ravena's back, contrasting with Lucian's lean hardness on top of her. He caressed her arms, then her shoulders, and then, with a mischievous grin on his face, his hands moved to her breasts, warming her up. She imagined him in his wolf form, confident, savage, and handsome, as her guardian. She should have expected him to come after her.She ran her fingers through his satiny hair, and his fangs grazed her neck, sending a shiver up her spine. She slid her hands down his back, tensing the muscles with longing. "I love you, Lucian," she whispered into his ear.He grumbled lowly, his eyes glossed over. "Never leave me alone li
"Wait up, boss." Sam started climbing back up. "She is unable to gain a foothold."She wished she could leap down to the bottom of the cliff and be cushioned by the snow."Try to grab anything, Ravena." Sam will assist you."Everyone watched as Sam ascended below Ravena, the wind-driven snow buffeting her and threatening to drag her away from the jagged rocks. But she was unable to go down or to either side. She wondered whether Freya had come this far. How could she have done it? However, the snow and ice may have made a difference."Put your right foot in my hand, and I'll guide you to a shelf," Sam enticingly said."I'll pull the rest of you off the mountain." Ravena's voice trembled, despite her best efforts to keep it together for Lucian.The bitch of a pack leader was powerful. Not a frightened wuss. But her arms and legs were tiring by the second, and her fingers and toes were already frozen from the cold. She'd be at the bottom of the mountain by now if she'd had viable foot a
As he escorted Ravena up the stairs, Lucian grinned and kissed her. "I guess I've been remiss in informing the pack that you're one of us.""Don't you have any regrets?" You're not worried that I won't be able to deal with the aftermath, are you?" He drew her into his bedroom and closed the door."Like, like what?" That my folks will not adore you?You'll be.""Not necessarily by everyone.""The woman who wanted me as a mate?" He laughed and yanked her sweatshirt off, dropping it on a chair."I apologize for Ritka. Because I was so unhappy over Doc, I never said anything before. But I truly apologize. She, too, did not deserve to die.""I know, Ravena." He inhaled deeply and removed her boots. "This will cause us trouble.""Bruin will want to fight you, don't you think?" Lucian smiled brightly at her. “No. Well, perhaps. But the conclusion would not be what he had hoped. No. I was thinking about the hospital's personnel. Carol Wood will insist on being hired at the hospital now that R
"Watch what you say, Chester McKinley.""Of course, Chester," Ravena answered after a minute of silence. I see what you're saying. I came here to find Lucian, but first I had to get rid of my sister."“Exactly. My argument is that Lucian's brothers are also suspects. If you want to go that far, Lucian himself. What about Sheridan, the sheriff? He hasn't had a vacation in five years, and then he goes on one?""Wait a blamed minute," Uncle Sheridan exclaimed. "I've earned that damned vacation.""Not to mention, Uncle Sheridan wanted to get out of town before the second annual fair arrived," Jake explained.Chester offered his hands in peace. "I'm saying we shouldn't look only at those we suspect, but also at those who appear to be above suspicion." Maintain an open mind. In this business, I have no choice. But it's easy for me because I don't know anyone in town.""I'm not looking into Ravena, my brothers, or Uncle Sheridan, and if this is the kind of nonsense—"Chester furrowed his bro
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