"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
"That sounds a little kinky." Despite the fact that I recall you stating you hoped you could tell someone you'd never meet again about a sexual desire of yours.""That's definitely not one of them." Carol's head shook a bit too aggressively."I'm confident Lucian and his family and friends are not members of a cult." He's too preoccupied with operating the plant and the silver mine.""I think you're correct. However, some of the residents are involved. You must believe me.""Are your psychic powers ever wrong?""It's not always easy for me to figure out what anything means. I saw an injured girl, felt her leg anguish, and saw her showered in a blanket of white mist. Later, I realized it was the girl you saved in the woods before Joe took you. But I couldn't see her, who she was, what happened to her, or who she was with. Most of the time, the visions are not very clear.""Like something out of a nightmare?" Where do dreams get muddled and flow together with the strangest images?""May
"She's going to be a headache." "However, she might be able to use her abilities to warn us before whoever murdered Freya strikes at Ravena again," Lucian remarked.A rap on the door was heard.“Yes?” Lucian inquired sternly.Ravena pushed open the door, her face tense."Where has Carol gone?" Lucian inquired as he exited the office. He was certain that if given the chance, the woman would escape. She didn't look to be a fighter.Ravena seized his arm. "Lucian, Silva is here to assist her with the pies." Carol, on the other hand, had a... premonition. A bunch of men is on their way to see you. They're upset, but they're not the actual issue. Another group intends to break into a bedroom and kidnap me. She has no idea what occurs next, just that disaster is on its way."When Lucian's phone rang, Tom took it off the desk. “Yeah?” His face clouded as he gazed up at Lucian. "Uncle Sheridan claims he was unable to keep the reds at Hastings B&B. "They're on their way."She raised a shoulder
Crassus folded his arms and sneered s if he had nothing to worry about. "Your father would not hand you up to me. I assumed it was because of your fury. Would have made our mating much more difficult. Or it may be because you hadn't yet entered a wolf's heat, and he was scared you wouldn't be worth possessing." He said, his eyes as cold as ash, "But Freya is dead, and you will now be mine."His words slashed through her like an ice sword, but she seemed to be unconcerned, waving a hand at Lucian, who was battling another wolf. "This is my partner. Crassus, you're already too late. Accept it and move on."He went out to stroke Ravena's hair, but she smacked him on the back of the hand. He laughed from the pit of his stomach, wicked and vicious. He grabbed her by the throat and threw her against the wall before she could respond. A shiver ran down her spine, and she dropped the light. "Despite your father's insistence, you hoped Bruin would give you to another pack member—another subchi
Leidolf kissed Ravena on the cheek, and she seemed to hold her breath, pale and self-conscious."So it seems," Leidolf remarked, his voice strong and intimidating. "I had planned on bringing Ravena home to my pack."Ravena exhaled deeply. "Are you going to Wildhaven?" "You're going to lead them now?""No, not in Oregon." My mother and father have joined me. In Wildhaven, Uncle Hrothgar will face the pack. Will you accompany me?" He grabbed a soft grip on her arm as if to convince her to follow him."No, Leidolf." Her cheeks flushed, and she yanked her arm free of his clutches. "You abandoned us two years ago!" We could have used your assistance! Do you think you can come in here and dictate to me now that you're the pack leader? That'd be the day.""All right, that's resolved. Several prime-aged reds joined the group in search of a mate and were quite intrigued when I mentioned my sister was available, however..." Leidolf shrugged and gave Lucian a sour look.So, had Leidolf already p
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