Renny's Mate

~ Look for these titles from Selena Illyria ~

Now Available: Roman: Fallen Lovers Dragons at Midnight

Renny’s Mate Beach Bums Vol. 2

Selena Illyria

Copyright Warning EBooks are not transferable. They cannot be sold, shared, or given away. The unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this copyrighted work is a crime punishable by law. No part of this book may be scanned, uploaded to or downloaded from file sharing sites, or distributed in any other way via the Internet or any other means, electronic or print, without the publisher’s permission. Criminal copyright infringement, including infringement without monetary gain, is investigated by the FBI and is punishable by up to 5 years in federal prison and a fine of $250,000 (http://www.fbi.gov/ipr/). This book is a work of fiction. The names, characters, places, and incidents are fictitious or have been used fictitiously, and are not to be construed as real in any way. Any resemblance to persons, living or dead, actual events, locales, or organizations is entirely coincidental. Published By: Etopia Press P.O. Box 66 Medford, OR 97501 http://www.etopia-press.net Renny’s Mate Copyright © 2012 by Selena Illyria ISBN: 978-1-937976-05-7 Edited by Katriena Knights Cover by Annie Melton All Rights Are Reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical articles and reviews. First Etopia Press electronic publication: February 2012

~ Dedication ~ For Cynnie, Dawn, Diana, Tara, Rhian, Alice, Jess, Lexxie, Mari, Lacey, Fiona, Annie, Georgia and Vicki. Thank you.

Chapter One Renault rolled the Howling Wolf statue from one hand to the other while trying not to glance out at Larissa, his brother William’s secretary. He could see her in his mind, and her scent swirled around him. Goosebumps rippled over his arms as heat slid down his spine. Blood pounded through his veins and moved toward his groin. Heat clawed through him, reminding him of the last time he’d had sex. The wolf paced, restless in its flesh cage, demanding out. This had nothing to do with sex. It was all about the claiming, the need, the call to mate and claim. Breathe in. Breathe out. His heart pounded against his ribcage. The full moon was weeks away, and yet he felt like clawing off his skin and shifting right then and there and mounting Larissa for a violent, intense taking. He doubted she’d enjoy that. Neither would he. It would also drive her away so fast he’d never see her again. Although werewolves could track their mates over long distances, that was only if they’d marked them. He and Larissa had barely spoken much less looked at each other. Thanks to you, brother dear. He looked over at William. His wolf growled, and Ren had to close his eyes to calm the animal down. Ren couldn’t blame

William. If his brother had even a inkling of Ren’s feelings, he would send Larissa as far away as possible. To William, Larissa was family, and family needed to be protected, even from itself. Who cared about Ren’s feelings? Not them. He was the black sheep, ne’er do well. Ren never finished anything or committed to anything or anyone. Not that anyone in his family asked him what he wanted or anything. That would be horrible. He would actually have to say what he thought or express his wants and needs. Gods forbid. He rolled his eyes and placed the statue back in its place on the shelf, lest William accuse him of wanting to break the family’s crest in marble form. “Tell me again why we even give you assignments? How could you screw this up? A toddler could have closed this deal.” William pushed a hand through wavy dark brown hair and gazed at Ren in annoyance. Renny tried not to grit his teeth. “And I’m telling you the deal would have been a rip-off to both parties. I looked over the details myself. We would have lost a huge chunk of money and had to fire people. I was trying to save both of us that pain. In this economy, we can’t afford to look like we’d be happy to cut loose good people who work hard. I gave you a new proposal.” He pointed to the pile of papers on William’s desk, for all the good that would do. He knew what his brother would do with it. “That? That’s from you?” William’s incredulity was like a punch in the gut. Renny resisted the urge to say something crass

and storm out. Not only would that not buy him any points in credibility but it would also look bad in front of Larissa. “It has my name on it.” “I thought you’d bought someone off to write that up for you.” William sank down in his chair behind the massive cherry wood desk. Renny threw up his hands. “Great, all those years of business wasted. Why didn’t I think of just paying some lackey to write it for me? Hell, why can’t it be his idea too. Jesus, do you think so low of me that you think I’d pass of someone else’s work as my own?” He held up a hand. “Wait, don’t answer that. I don’t want to know.” “Ren, come on. It’s not like that. I’ll look over the details. How are things with Bunny? You two okay? She didn’t seem happy that you didn’t come to the polo match on Saturday.” William shuffled papers around, not meeting Ren’s gaze. Renny rolled his eyes. Bunny. Who the hell would want to name a werewolf shifter Bunny? It was like naming your cow Grass. He’d been ducking Bunny since his parents had announced the engagement. It was bad enough his parents had paired them up like they were living in medieval times, but that she thought he was some sort of accessory and that they were a serious couple only made things worse. “I’ve been avoiding her.” “Ren—” “Don’t start. I don’t like her. I don’t like this. I know we made a deal but marriage? I barely know the girl. And don’t call her a woman. She acts like

she’s a seventeen year old with a credit card and a crush. I can’t marry her. I’m not attracted to her, and she sure as hell isn’t my mate.” Renny resisted the urge to glance at Larissa. “And you have a duty to your family. You swore you’d carry it out. If you back out on this you might as well disown yourself. Think about that before you do anything stupid. Now, I have a meeting, so I’ll see you at the family get-together. We’ll be at Martha’s Vineyard this year.” William turned his attention to his laptop. Ren resisted the urge to scowl. Dismissed. Just like that. Like he didn’t have any say or an original idea. Anger boiled up inside of him. Underneath the rage was the slow burn of hurt. Ren may have been born second but his family didn’t even treat him like a son or brother. They treated him like a chess piece. If he wasn’t useful, he was dismissed. His brother didn’t even glance up to see why he hadn’t moved or left the office already. Rage coiled through him in a tight spiral that threatened to spill out. A growl formed in his throat. He shoved it down and stomped off, slowing down to regain some calm, some center and to get a whiff of the reason why he was still an employee of the family business. Larissa’s seductive scent of lavender and vanilla soothed some of the savage emotions clashing through him. Underneath that musky perfume was the rich, sweet fragrance of the woman who claimed him. As he punched the down button for the elevator

he managed to get a hold on his feelings and shove them down. Gazing across the cubicle-laden landscape to where Larissa sat he took in his mate; rich, brown spirals framed her face and lay on her shoulders in a curtain of curls. Her smooth, flawless brown skin wasn’t stained with a stitch of make-up. Plump, full lips were sans gloss, making them all the more tempting. Long lashes framed almond-shaped eyes. Brown pupils were focused on the computer monitor. Long slim fingers moved with deft speed, flying over the keyboard without pause. He could only imagine what those fingers could do to him. A shudder of desire rippled through him. The elevator doors swung open. He stepped into the car and turned around, leaning against the rail, keeping his gaze on his mate. Gripping the cold metal behind him, he made a decision—no more being the dutiful son. No more denying what he wanted or shoving down his thoughts and feelings. And certainly no more pushing away his mate. Come hell or high water, Larissa would be his, and Bunny could find some other accessory for her collection.

*** The back of Larissa’s neck tingled and heated as if someone was staring at her. She’d tried studiously to ignore William in there with one of his advisors. It

had been difficult. The man had been around the office before, even more so in the last few weeks, working on some deal or other. William had become very secretive where the mystery man was concerned. Maybe he didn’t want Larissa getting too curious. She couldn’t blame him. Her instincts when it came to men were skewed. She always fell for the wrong ones. Men who used her, threw her away and didn’t give a damn so long as they got what they wanted, and she usually ate it up like cream. She wasn’t exactly the most gorgeous woman in the world. Nor did she have an hourglass figure to drool over. She was just her. Someone who didn’t exactly garner much attention. Wallpaper was good when your job was supposed to be in the background but when it came to relationships she wasn’t sure it did her any favors. It also didn’t help that she spent most of her time with preternatural men. They could always tell how she felt by the way she smelled, and they noticed the smallest details. Compared to normal human men, they just seemed more in tune with her emotions and feelings. Her attention drifted back to the mystery man who had been in William’s office. Curiosity poked and prodded her brain, demanding answers. William wasn’t going to give her any. He was like an overprotective big brother werewolf in human form. No one was ever good enough for him. And much to her annoyance he was right. It had been a year since her last relationship and

six months since she’d had sex. Now all of that was coming to a head and all because of the mystery man. She could remember his long, dark hair slicked back from his face to show off chiseled cheek bones, a strong jaw, a cleft in his chin, tempting looking lips, a straight nose and gorgeous hazel eyes with flecks of gold. William might have kept them apart but she’d had enough time to study him over the last few days, mark him to memory and use him in the most lurid ways in her imagination. A small grin curled her lips. She quickly squashed the pleasure twining through her body at the thought of how she’d used his image last night. “Riss, are you listening to me? Maybe you are overworked.” William ran a hand through his hair. The thick waves only slid back down to cover one eye. The shadow of a beard covered his jaw. His gray eyes, framed by thick lashes, were filled with concern. She blinked. “I’m fine. Just need the weekend to recover from this week, and I’ll be good as new.” “I’m sure you will.” He chuckled. “But you won’t need a weekend to recover. Since it’s that time of year again, and the family will be at the Martha’s Vineyard house, my island home will be vacant. I want you to take the week after next off and give yourself a rest. You’ll be all alone, and it will be fully stocked. I’ll be sure of it.” Larissa blinked. A week on an island paradise, and it would be all hers? She gave a shout of excitement. Before he could change his mind she launched herself around the desk and hugged him.

“Thank you, thank you, thank you.” She even kissed him on the cheek before backing off. William laughed. “It’s the least I can do since I’ve had you running around like a maniac for the last few months. Take the house and enjoy it. But be aware once you get back, we’ll be taking on more deals, and I’ll be having more meetings. You’ll be busier than ever, I promise you.” Larissa took that as a sign that the mystery man would be back. Maybe I’ll get to talk to him, deal with him, even get to know him. The thought gave her some hope. Maybe he’ll like what he sees and ask me out. She grinned even more. “So for now your orders are to relax, take some time for yourself and be back here fresh and ready to work. Who knows—there might be a promotion in it.” This wasn’t the first time he’d hinted at giving her a promotion. It pleased her to know her hard work wasn’t lost on him. Plenty of times, she’d worked for people who didn’t appreciate all the hard work she did and only gave her half the credit. Now she was working for someone who took her seriously. “Good to know I’m appreciated here, and if not I can always spike your coffee.” With that she turned on her heel and left the office. “I’ll make all the arrangements. Be ready for the car to come get you next Friday. Don’t pack for an expedition, please,” William called out. She didn’t bother to respond, instead shutting the door and returning to work. Now she had something else to look forward to. The idea of sun, sand, and

nothing to do but relax helped her make it through the rest of the week.

*** William sat back in his chair and looked over the files Renny had put together. He smiled and chuckled before shaking his head. His brother always accused him of not having faith in him but he did—it was the others in the firm who didn’t. If Ren didn’t get his facts right, they’d tear him apart. This was a packcontrolled business, and the pack, led by their father, didn’t accept anything that wasn’t fully proven. He ran a hand through his hair. Will just wished Ren would trust him. He also wished Ren wasn’t after his secretary. Every time his brother came into his office William felt like he was confronting a wolf in heat. The scent triggered his desire to mate, and he wasn’t about to give in to his impulses. Especially when the object of his affection was the daughter of another powerful shifter pack, and to be exposed would mean huge shockwaves in their small community. He couldn’t help but think that the reason he was hard on his brother was because there were so few werewolves in their little niche of the world. Their pack hadn’t gotten on top by lying down and giving in to other shifters.

Shaking his head again, he refocused his thoughts on other things—the upcoming family reunion for one. He would be away from the office for a week, and Larissa would get a much-needed vacation before the mid-year rush. They had several projects in the works, and she would need to be on her game to keep up with it all. She deserved few days’ rest, and it would keep her and Ren apart until he could figure out a way to convince his brother to stay away from the human woman. It would be difficult, but it was best that he do the talking rather than have his mother and father step in. Ren wouldn’t just bristle at their parents talking to him about his choice in mates, but that would drive his brother away, and they’d just gotten him back. There was no way he was losing his brother again. Somehow he had to show Ren that Bunny was the only way. Come hell or high water, his brother would fulfill his duty to the family and make their position as the top pack in the city more secure.

Chapter Two One Week Later… A warm breeze rustled Larissa’s hair. The sun beat down on her but she didn’t care. Looking out on all that golden sand and the gently swaying palm trees made up for forgetting her hair care products at home. The ride to the island had been uneventful. Once they took off all she’d seen was water, water, and more water with only a few sightings of dolphins and sea animals. She’d taken the chance to just close her eyes and empty her mind. A vacation. Finally, after all this time, she was getting a proper, away from home escape. Normally she couldn’t leave her apartment for fear William would call needing something. But he was with his family, and his time would be absorbed by family business and ducking matchmaking pack mamas and his father’s suggestions for possible mates. She would feel sorry for him if it wasn’t for all the sun, sand, and turquoise water she was looking at. “Poor Will. Oh, well, the island is all mine.” Giggling, she dropped her purse and rushed toward the water. The plane had left for the return flight already. Her luggage and all the supplies she would need for the week had been stowed at the house. She was free and all alone. Feeling devilish, she pulled her sundress over her head, undid her bra

and pulled it off, and paused to shove down her panties before dumping it all on the sand and rushing toward the waters. The waves splashed up to meet her, crashing against her body so hard she was knocked down. Laughing, she got up and waded deeper into the water before swimming out as far as she could go. Floating, she closed her eyes and savored the sun beating down on her and the sea lapping at her skin, chasing away all her cares and worries. There was no pack business or demanding job or loud city noise. There were no neighbors arguing above her or a baby crying next door or someone playing their music too loud. In a word, it was paradise. Absolute perfection. The only thing that could make it even better would be the mystery man from the office. She wished to be a heroine in one of her romance novels for once. The setting was right. A desert island, a sexy stranger and no one to rescue them for days. She could see them having wild, hot sex in the house, on the sea and maybe camping out under the stars by a bonfire and watching the sun rise up over the water. It would make this whole time off perfect before she had to get back to her hectic life at William’s beck and call. It had been disappointing to go through a week and not see the mystery man once. It didn’t help that William was on the warpath for some reason. Several times he’d snapped at her. She’d bit her tongue and kept silent. Keeping her head down, she did her job as usual but kept thoughts of the island in her head. The

closer Friday got the more she thought of her upcoming vacation. Now the day was here, and she was finally free to put her job behind her. Even if it was only for a week. A month would have been better but she’d take what she could get. A smile quirked her lips, and she shut her eyes, letting the floating sensation take her. The water lapped at her body, lulling her into relaxation. A loud splash nearby didn’t even faze her. She just focused on the water and the weightlessness. The splashing sound grew louder and closer. “Hold on, I’m almost there. Ma’am? Ma’am, can you hear me?” a deep male voice called. She frowned. Maybe I’ve had too much sun. Time to go back. She dove under the water and came up for air. “Jesus, thank the goddess you’re alive. Let me help you get back to shore.” Wet, dark hair obscured her purported rescuer’s features. He wrapped an arm around her waist and tried to drag her back to the beach. “But I’m not in any danger.” She tried to twist out of his grasp and swim on her own but the man’s hold was too strong. It was almost as if he feared he’d lose her. “Don’t worry, just let me get you to shore. It will be all right once we’re there.” He continued to pull her along, and she did her best to keep up with his smooth, strong strokes. “Just a little farther.” They made it to shallow waters, and he scooped her up and placed her on the sand. Panting, he laid down beside her. Closing her eyes, she allowed the

sun to warm her skin. It took her sluggish mind a few moments to realize she was naked. In front of a stranger. Her eyelids flew open, and she sat up, looking around feverishly for her clothes. “Shit. Shit. Shit,” she cursed under her breath. Spotting her top, she rushed over to it, tripping over a rock and stubbing her toe. The pain ricocheted up her leg but didn’t slow her down. She continued to rush toward the top, hoping it would be long enough to cover her to just below her pussy. “You okay, ma’am?” the harsh, deep voice called out after her. “Yeah, fine,” she replied distractedly. Larissa didn’t even want to think about what he could be seeing at that moment. That was, if he was even looking. She snatched the shirt up and pulled it over her head but it only came to the top of her waist. With a frustrated sound, she found her skirt. She stepped into it and pulled it up, praying she looked presentable. There was nothing to be done about her hair, which would undoubtedly be a mess and coated in sand from lying on the beach. Whirling around, she took in the stranger. He’d pushed his hair back from his face, and hazel eyes with golden flecks gazed at her in amusement and relief. “Hi. Can I ask what you were doing out there…naked?” Her stranger from the office! She was too shocked to reply. Her mouth dropped open. All she could do was stare. “You’re Larissa, William’s assistant.” It was a

statement, not a question. Her face flushed with heat. She wasn’t sure if she should be even more embarrassed or feel happy that he not only recognized her but knew her name. “Yes,” she mumbled, wishing she had on her bra and panties as well. Despite being clothed, she felt naked under his gaze. His look heated as his eyes became greener. He stood up. For the first time she noticed he wasn’t wearing a shirt. Looking over his bare chest, she took in the tight, dark brown nipples pierced through with silver barbells. Tattoos decorated one arm and one pectoral and rode down the side of his ribs. His abs were tightly ridged. He wore soaked khakis, and his feet were bare. He stood with all the grace of a predator. As he came toward her, she stumbled back, feeling trapped by his gaze. Swallowing, she took him in; his arms swung at his sides, and his steps were slow and measured. His lips were curled into a smile that she couldn’t understand. A question hovered on her tongue but she couldn’t get out the words to ask. All she could do was watch him come toward her. He held out his hand. “Let me introduce myself. Renny, erm, Renault, William’s brother.” She blinked as she tried to process what he’d just said. William’s brother? Will has a brother? She stood there staring at him, not comprehending what he was saying. Will never really spoke about his brother. It was said around the office that Will’s brother was the black sheep of the family and was not to be

mentioned. For a moment she wasn’t sure what to say to him or how to act. “I don’t bite.” He grinned flashing straight, white teeth. “Unless you want me to,” he added in a low, husky tone. She shivered, and her nipples tightened in response to the rough sound. Swallowing again, she struggled to find the words. “What…what are you doing here? How did you get here? Will said no one would be here. What about the family reunion?” Larissa didn’t want to lose her job just because she was forced to interact with him for a week. She hadn’t heard a lot about him but most of it was bad. He couldn’t commit to anything or anyone, had run away from the family several times and didn’t have much of a relationship with his father or mother. He was supposed to be a bit of a wild child. Renny withdrew his hand. “I needed a break from the family and needed to be alone with my thoughts. But I don’t mind the company.” He gave her a sly grin. Now I know what Little Red Riding Hood felt like. Ren wasn’t hiding his interest in her. His gaze wandered over her body, pausing at her breasts, her waist, then moving down her legs and back up to her face. Her face flushed hotter than before. “So, why were you floating out there?” He shoved his hands into his pockets and kept his look on her face, much to her relief. “I went for a swim and wanted to relax in the ocean for a bit. It’s been a while since I’ve been to the

beach.” She waited for him to say something about her nudity. “Ah. I thought you were in distress. You weren’t moving so I thought…I had no idea…” The sly grin came back, and his eyes darkened, the golden flecks becoming more pronounced. His gaze slid down her body again in a smooth glide that made her feel nude all over again. Shyly, she looked away. “Let me just say it. Do you always swim naked or was that just for me?” She jerked her head up to look at him, shocked at his forwardness. His smile was bigger, naughtier, cheekier. She couldn’t help but like him in that instant. He was more playful than William, who focused more on business and rarely took time off. “Well, since I had no idea you were here, it was for me.” She smiled back at him, feeling the tension seep away. He pouted. “I feel offended. And here I thought you were trying to make me feel special, showing off your perfect assets and all. I suppose Will let you stay at the house for a week? Guess I’ll have to behave myself. I wouldn’t want the big, bad Will to come down on me for not showing his best assistant a good time.” In the face of his flirting she couldn’t help but let any reservations she’d held go. “Why should you be so afraid of Will when you have me to deal with? Cross me, and I may have to spank you.” Normally she wouldn’t feel so at ease and flirty. Maybe it was

the sun and the man in front of her. Whatever it was, she was going to go with it. “Spank me?” His eyebrow rose and he came forward. “Well, well, if I knew you were into kink I would have approached you earlier.” He stopped with only a foot away from her. The heat of his body pressed against her, making her very aware of him. Looking up, she stared right into his eyes. “And yet you didn’t. I think you’re too scared of Will.” Ren closed the distance between them until the tips of her breasts touched his chest. “Sweetheart, I don’t fear anyone, least of all my brother. Want me to prove it?” She pressed herself against him. “Hard to prove you’re not scared of your brother on an island.” “But—” He paused and lowered her face closer to hers. “—I can prove it to you.” Ren sealed the words with a kiss. Electricity shot straight from her lips to her toes. Every cell in her body seemed to burst into flames. The tips of her breasts tingled as her pussy filled with liquid heat. She felt his hands on her hips, the touch spreading fire along her skin. She felt as if she was burning from the inside out. Reaching down, she clasped his wrists in a tight grip. Larissa felt as if she were back in the ocean, floating away and yet burning at the same time. When he pulled back, a sense of disappointment and emptiness filled her at the loss of his touch. He brushed back a thick hank of wet hair that had

fallen in her face. “Sun is going down. We should get you inside and get you out of those wet clothes. I can make us some dinner, and we can talk.” “You just want to see me naked again,” she teased. “That too.” Without another word, he scooped her up in his arms and carried her toward the house. Laughing, she savored being close to him again. Snuggling against him, she let this big, bad wolf take care of her. She just hoped that she wouldn’t have to explain anything to Will.

*** William ran a hand through his hair and tried not to scream. Renny was nowhere to be found, and there was no word on where he could be. His father was furious, and his mother was drinking herself into another stupor. Bunny was irritating the hell out of him, asking stupid questions that had already been asked. If he didn’t feel a strong sense of family obligation, he’d run away. Far away and not look back. Maybe even go so far as to the island and turn off the phone there. Unfortunately, that way out was currently occupied by his worthy assistant. Larissa deserved time at the island more than he did. For now he’d grin and bear it and hope Ren would show up late and not

try to duck out on his responsibilities.

*** Ren felt a bit bad about abandoning the family reunion but, as he saw it, he’d gotten the better part of the deal since he could spend time with Larissa uninterrupted. If it he didn’t know any better, he’d say the universe was giving him this window to pursue and win his mate. He didn’t exactly believe in destiny or kismet or fate or serendipity. All he knew was now, and that she was here with him. Now he could get to know her. Sure, he had a week to do it, but he didn’t have to worry about Will or his family keeping him from Larissa. Savoring her in his arms, he made his way over the soft sand to the house. Will had done very well in building this little hideaway. Three stories of pure luxury from the hot tub, spa and pool in the back to satellites to provide Internet and television, and every room had the best, most comfortable furniture. He intended to use every square inch of the house and the beach in getting to know Larissa in every way imaginable. She had no clue what he would go through to make sure that by the end of the week she understood just what being his mate meant. He knew he was taking a big risk, a huge one. His family would turn

its back on him. Any strides he’d made in building a relationship with Will would probably be thrown out the window. Bunny would be furious, and she would undoubtedly retaliate. He wouldn’t allow any harm to come to Larissa. Not if he could help it. The packs would be pissed, of course, but that was a risk he was willing to take. He’d never belonged—not to his family or in the marriage deal. There was something he did belong to, or rather someone—Larissa. Deep down in his soul he felt he belonged to her, and that he had to protect and claim her. Without dropping her, he opened the front door and carried her over the threshold. She laughed. The sound enchanted him and sent warmth rippling through his soul. “God, I love that sound. I’m going to have to make you laugh all this week.” She tilted her head up and looked at him. For a moment, he felt himself falling into her deep, dark brown eyes. He wanted to touch her again, feel that electricity from their kiss jitter through his body again. Without stopping himself, he kissed her again. The sizzle from the touch jolted his system yet again, traveling like a pinball around his body. Need curled through his stomach, clawing up his chest. Not breaking the kiss, he moved deeper into the house and kicked the door closed before laying her down on a couch in front of the fireplace. Covering her body with his, he groaned at feeling her fully against him. Her breasts pillowed against his chest, her hips cradled his. His wolf howled and panted as

mating heat took over. Rocking against her mound, he felt lava-hot blood pool in his groin. His cock thickened and pressed against his damp pants. Growling, he ripped his lips away and lifted his waist. Balancing with one hand near her head, he tried to open his fly one-handed. He needed to be naked. Ren needed to feel her skin to skin. She lifted her head, following his lips. He could only murmur an incoherent word before lowering his head again to continue the kiss while trying to undo the button. In frustration, he ripped the small disc off and yanked open the zipper. The tip of his cock pushed through the opening. Instead of focusing on getting his pants off, he kept kissing her. Their mouths moved over each other, hungry, desperate, needy. The fire inside him became fueled by this passionate contact. He threaded his fingers in the thick tangle of her damp hair. Pulling her head closer, he ate at her lips, nibbling the bottom lip before sucking it and lapping away any pain. Sinking his tongue into the recesses of her mouth, he twirled and twined it around hers. They moaned and groaned. Their bodies began to rock against each other as they both tried to get closer to each other. He couldn’t get enough. She was a siren. A temptress from the ocean, smelling of sand, sea and earth. Not her usual perfume, but it made him equally as horny as the vanilla and lavender she wore. He gave up on his pants and slipped his hand

under her body, pulling her closer. She hooked a leg around his hip and ground her pussy against his erection. He growled as the friction set off sparks. From root to tip, his cock heated and thickened even more. She slid a hand between them and reached past his waistband to brush her fingertips over the sensitive head of his cock. Groaning aloud, he pulled his head back and pushed his hips forward, trying to get more contact with her hand. She pulled her hand away and giggled. “Tease,” he muttered as he kissed his way along her jaw. “You haven’t fed me yet, and I’m still in these damp clothes,” she said innocently. He stopped kissing her to look into her lustdarkened eyes. The words sunk in, and his inner wolf howled. Pulling his body away, he gazed at her. Not looking away, he reached down and tore her shirt open. She squealed. “Renault!” Despite her cry, she didn’t scold him or appear to be angered in the least. In fact she looked more aroused. In that instant, he knew that she was perfect for him.

Chapter Three Larissa felt as if she was going to burn or explode, she wasn’t sure which. Tension wound its way around and through her body. She needed to feel him against her, inside her. It didn’t matter so long as he didn’t pull away. She’d never felt like this before. Instead of running from the feeling, she drew toward it. Larissa wanted to revel in this new experience. For once in her life she wanted to do something that wasn’t expected, and getting to know this gorgeous man above her and finally scratching the sexual itch that had been riding her since she first set eyes on him would suit her just fine. Reaching up, she trailed her hand down the center of chest. He sucked in a breath, his pupils expanding. Grabbing her wrist, he pulled it down to cover his opened fly. The heat of the flared cap of his cock nearly singed her palm. He felt so hot and soft yet damp from the beads of desire forming at the slit at the top. She moved her hand downward, slipping past the opening to grasp the thick stalk. He closed his eyes and shuddered. She took that as a sign to continue as she moved her hand down, taking her time to savor his girth and the velvet softness of his skin. She could feel every pulse of his heart while grasping his shaft. Up and down, pausing to swipe another droplet of pre-cum at the top, then

using it as lubrication to continue her exploration. The zipper teeth chafed at her skin but she ignored it in favor of giving him more pleasure. He shook above her, his breath coming out in humid puffs. She could smell just a hint of whiskey and something else, something spicy. The air became heavy with the wild, masculine cologne of woods, earth, sun, and sea with a hint of spice and incense. She was drowning in him, losing her sense of self and not caring one fig what it would lead to. Her body was melting and burning up. Her pussy ached to be filled. She gave his cock a squeeze before releasing the thick rod and sliding her hand down to cup his balls. Frustrated that his pants didn’t offer a lot of room to tease him, she removed her hand, grasped his waistband and yanked them down until his shaft and balls were fully exposed. She moaned at the sight— her mouth watered to taste him, to draw him into her mouth and suck him off until he came down her throat. She scooted farther down onto the couch and grabbed his hips, trying to pull him down onto her face. “Sweetheart,” he rasped out. “Not like this.” Ignoring him, she sat up and licked a path up the underside of his shaft, tracing the thick, pulsing vein before swirling her tongue around the wide head and then taking it into her mouth. She flicked the slit, trying to flick away the droplets of pre-cum. He tasted of salt, earth, musk. and a dash of spicy mystery that made her moan.

She slid her lips down onto the rod, taking more of him into her mouth. He stretched her to her limits. There was a little pain but not enough to make her stop. She could hear his groans floating down to her, driving her on as she took a little more of him in her mouth before sliding back to the top and lapping up more of his desire and repeating the process. A crick formed in her neck but she didn’t care, continuing her ministrations until she felt him respond. He flexed his hips. At first just a little, pulling back and pausing and then pushing forward again, going a little deeper, meeting the glide and pull of her lips. Glancing up his body, she could see his face was damp with sweat, his lips parted and his eyes heavy lidded, only showing a hint of green fire gazing down at her. Releasing his cock with a pop, she gave the slit soft, quick kitten licks, not giving him too much contact—just enough to tease before taking him back into her mouth all over again. She became lost in giving him pleasure. It became her purpose, the center of her world, to make him come. Giving to him inflamed her need. Her core dripped with liquid heat. Her breasts ached for touch. She gripped one of his hips while her other hand cupped her breast, weighing the full mound before giving it a squeeze. Pleasure sparked straight to her vagina, lighting her up from the inside. She pinched her nipple gently at first before going a bit harder, tweaking the bud before going back to kneading her breast. Desire built inside her, like an inferno that had no

end. The flames coiled higher and higher, engulfing her as her juices dripped onto her thighs. Letting go of her breast, she slipped her hand down her body, between her legs. Sending a soft caress along the damp folds of her sex sent shivers of sensation through her. Her fingers parted her dewy folds, exposing her enlarged clit. She brushed the sensitive nubbin lightly before rubbing it in circles. Faster at first, matching her ministrations on his dick before slowing down to keep both of them from getting too close to climax. Releasing him, she lapped up the dribbles of semen. She needed a moment—her neck and mouth ached. As much she didn’t want to stop, she had to. Ren moved back onto his heels. His eyes were shadowed with emotions she couldn’t read. He reached out and caressed her face. For a moment she wondered if she’d moved too fast, and he would reject her. He moved toward her and kissed her, lapping at her lips before pulling back. “Let’s take it slow. It’s not that don’t want this but I think we need to take it slow. Let’s have dinner first before jumping into bed. Let it never be said that I’m not a gentleman.” She opened her mouth to say something. The ashes of her desire continued to float around inside her. Need wove through her veins. He hadn’t said it but she couldn’t help but wonder if she’d done something wrong by moving too fast. He caressed her cheek again. “Don’t mistake my need to slow down for rejection, because it’s not. I just want to take things

slow, get to know you. I don’t want you to wake up tomorrow and try to run for the hills because we slept together after meeting each other a few moments ago.” Relief swept through her at his words but did nothing to dampen her arousal. She lifted her chin and smiled at him. “Fine. Guess I’ll just have to let my fingers and vibrators do the talking, and no, I won’t let you watch.” Scooting out from under him, she stood up, shrugged out of her torn top, pushed down her skirt and walked toward the stairs with her head held high. It wasn’t until she reached the second floor landing that she realized she hadn’t asked where her stuff was since he was staying here. “You’re in the first master suite at the end of the center hall. I’m in the second master suite to the right side. Hurry up before I change my mind and decide to fuck you where you are. There’s only so much teasing a man can take,” he called up. His voice was a harsh-edged razor that hurt just hearing it. She was tempted to go back to him, see if he was okay. He was a werewolf, and strong emotions could bring on a change even if the moon wasn’t full. “Go, Larissa, or I swear to the moon, I’ll chase you down that damn hall and spank your ass before fucking you senseless,” he growled. She didn’t have to be told twice. No teasing, not even a flirty retort. If they were going to have sex, he was going to be in his right mind and not under the influence of his wolfen other half. In that moment, she

appreciated his restraint and said a silent thank you before rushing off to her room.

*** Pain pierced every muscle and slid along every tendon in his body. His bones were flaming hot. His organs ached as the change tried to take him over. Every glide of her mouth on his cock had brought him closer to changing into a beast. He’d had to stop it before he lost complete control and shifted, then fucked and marked her in his werewolf form. Restraint was not something he practiced on a regular basis, and his wolf was cursing him for letting their mate have time to change her mind. As much as he didn’t want that, she deserved a choice. He refused to drag her farther into his world without the knowledge of what she truly meant to him. It was as if she could read him. Without his even having to tell her, she knew how to tease him and drive him wild. He’d been on the brink of coming several times but he’d held back, if only by a thread. Now he was fighting to keep himself in a human state of mind. His wolf howled and clawed at him from the inside. Sharp pain echoed through his body as he pushed back even harder to keep the shift from coming. Sweat dripped from his brow and dribbled down

his chest. His balls ached from having no release. With one last effort he shoved at the wolf again, demanding the beast’s subservience. Exhaustion shook through him, and he collapsed onto the couch, wheezing as his heart tried to tattoo his ribcage with every thump. His head spun, and weakness crept along his limbs. He hoped he’d recover before Larissa came down from her shower. A spike of heat brought a gasp from him as he remembered her words about vibrators and letting her fingers ease her desire. Need clawed once more through him but he was too tired to do anything about it. She was a surprise, that was for sure. Under that sweet, complacent demeanor was a passionate, sassy, sensual woman who would make his life more colorful. She’d keep him on his toes, and he’d hate to have to leave her for anything. The very thought of parting from her hurt, but his job demanded lots of travel. Perhaps I could negotiate with Will to transfer her into my department, and she could be my personal secretary. He nixed that thought. William would undoubtedly be truly pissed at him. His brother would wait until the end of the day, then try to phone him before writing him off completely. As much as he didn’t want to disappoint his elder sibling he didn’t doubt Will had come to expect failure from Renny. That hurt just as much as the thought of parting from Larissa. His relationship with his brother had just started to mend itself. The progress was small, but he valued that tiny repair

nonetheless. “Damned if you do and damned if you don’t.” He sighed and sat up. He felt a bit better but doubted he’d be a hundred percent. Renny rose and headed upstairs. He paused at the top of the stairs and debated peeking in on her. Resisting temptation, he headed for his rooms. A shower would do him good—at least that was what he told himself. After a quick clean up and dry off he put on loose khakis and a button up shirt that he didn’t bother to button. It was clear to him she liked looking at him, and he didn’t want to deprive her of the tease he could offer her later. When he left his room, he could see she wasn’t down yet, so he got started on dinner. He wanted their first meal together to be special. He decided the main course would be steak with steak fries and a side of spring vegetables. Other than that, he wasn’t sure what else to make her. “You don’t have to go to all that trouble. I’ll eat whatever you’re willing to make. Need help?” She came into the room dressed in shorts and a T-shirt, no make-up and her hair pulled back in a ponytail. She looked relaxed and at ease, much to his relief. No regrets showed in her eyes or on her face. “You look beautiful. Let me take care of everything. You relax.” He gestured toward a chair. She looked at it, and an eyebrow rose in question. “Pampering me? I can accept that.” Larissa slid into the indicated chair and watched him. He could feel her gaze on him. It stoked the still-

burning embers of arousal. Moving around the kitchen was difficult. His skin felt tight, his flesh burning. Sweat poured over his brow. All he could think of was her mouth on his cock, the taste of her lips. When he almost cut himself when trying to dice up the vegetables, he knew she had to leave the kitchen. Turning around, he looked at her. “Why don’t I pour you some wine, and you can relax out on the deck?” She leaned forward. “Give me something to do. I promise to stay out of your way.” The sound of her voice was a low purr that slid up his spine, heating him through. Grasping for words, he tried to figure out what to say to her. “Why don’t you…uh—” He looked around. “Why don’t you set the table on the deck, hm? That would be great.” Larissa gave him a Cheshire cat grin. “I can do that.” She rose, walked around the island in the center of the kitchen, brushed up against him, and headed to the curio cabinet. Taking out two plates, wine glasses and linen napkins, she slid past him again with a slow glide of her buttocks against his. His skin sparked underneath the cloth, setting him ablaze once again. Gritting his teeth, he concentrated on making up the salad and not her naked body. The more he tried to ignore the lust, the more it roared to life. All he could think of was getting her naked and exploring every inch of her body and satiating his need for her. “A drink?” She held a glass of red wine in front of his face. “Found the wine rack and decided to pour us

a little something.” He took the stemware from her and placed it within reach. “Are you done setting up the table?” Ren poured as much concentration into making the salad as he could muster but her scent, her presence pressed against his body, reminded him she wasn’t far enough away for him to concentrate. “I need to know what silverware we need.” Her voice came from behind him but he didn’t turn around. “Just forks and knives. Nothing fancy.” He wished it were a fancy dinner, that he could go all out, but with his mind so fogged with desire he wasn’t sure if he could get through making more than two courses, much less four. Once the salad was done he focused on preparing the steak. “Why not grill it?” she asked. Her breath ghosted against his skin, raising goose bumps. He jumped at her nearness. She’d managed to get closer to him without making a sound. Was she some kind of cat? Licking his lips, he tried to regain some semblance of control. “Boy, you’re really jumpy. Something wrong?” The question sounded so ridiculously innocent he wanted to laugh. Something wrong? If you didn’t call having a building inferno inside of you wrong, he wasn’t sure what else to call it. Also, there was the fact his cock was trying to burst through the front of his khakis, and his balls ached. Closing his eyes, he breathed in through his nose and out through his mouth.

“You okay? Do you want me to grill those steaks? I am pretty good on a grill, you know. In fact, I can make dessert. That is, if you’ll let me.” She pulled away from him. He felt as if a delicate, gossamer web was stretched between them as she moved away. The burning inside him subsided to a low simmer, and the throb in his balls died down a bit. It was a small measure of relief but it was enough to give him some clarity. Turning around, he watched her move around the kitchen. She looked so at ease and comfortable he wanted to watch her like that forever, only in their kitchen, in their home. The need to have that come true gripped him tight, squeezing his heart before letting it go. “Fine, you make dessert and I’ll grill the steaks.” He grabbed the plate of meat and headed outside to the patio. Her laughter trailed after him. “Of course you’d pick something with fire involved. Men,” she yelled out. The evening air ruffled his hair, trailed soft, cool fingers along his bare arms and pressed against his khakis, giving him the contrast of his overheated body and a nice cold night. The scent of tropical flowers drifted on the air, and the stars had started appearing on a blanket of navy. A plane flew overhead but it felt in that moment as if they were the only two in the world that mattered. After placing the steaks on the grill and letting the charcoal and flame do its thing, he went around the stone patio lighting up torches and the fire pit to give

the place a more romantic air. Their music was the sound of waves crashing against the shore and the nightlife of the island. It was a peaceful setting if he had ever seen one. He liked being away from the city with all the noise and pollution and the claustrophobic feel. Ren needed room to move and breathe. “This is so beautiful and perfect. I couldn’t have asked for a better vacation, if I do say so myself.” Her voice drifted toward him from the back door. He glanced over to see a smile on her face and happiness sparkling in her eyes. She looked so free and natural. Ren couldn’t help but feel honored to witness his mate like this. At the office she was always in the thick of things, but here, there were no problems, no phones to answer, no Will demanding her attention. She was his to get to know and his to claim. No challenges from the pack or protests to worry about from family. This was their time, and he was going to take it. He walked over to the grill and turned over the steaks. “Mmm, smells yummy. Dessert is in the freezer. Shall I start eating or do I have to wait for you?” Her stomach grumbled, answering for him. He laughed. “Start without me.” “Good, ’cause I was going to do that, anyway.” The scrape of a chair and the clank of silverware sounded behind him. He decided now was as good time as any to ask her some personal questions to get the ball started in the bonding process. “So, tell me about yourself.

Other than being gorgeous and Will’s overworked assistant, I know nothing about you.” It was a slight fib but he didn’t want to let her know just how observant he was. “Ah, the interrogation begins.” She chuckled before continuing. “Well, I’m thirty-three, single, never been married, have no kids, and haven’t had sex in quite a while. My job has been my boyfriend lately. Other than that, I’m pretty boring. I like to read and watch TV, go hiking but I’m not a nature lover. Show me bees or mosquitoes and I’m out of there. What else do you want to know?” Everything. Rather than take that approach, he thought about where to guide the process next. “Well, what kind of books do you like to read? What kind of music do you like? Do you like to go out to clubs or stay in? Breakfast or dinner?” He thought he’d done pretty well on not pushing things. At least he hoped he hadn’t pushed things too far. “Hmm, depends. I’m on a biography kick right now. At home I’m reading something on Catherine the First but I brought some romance novels with me for the vacation. When I get back I’ll probably want to dive back into mysteries. As for music, I love a bit of blues or jazz or classical—depends on my mood. I hate clubs. Too many people and loud music. Just too much, so I guess I’m more of a cozy corners and nights in kind of girl. I do like to go out, though. So if you have ideas for dates for us, think of cafes and restaurants with good food and travel to foreign

places. And brunch—it allows you to have both breakfast and lunch at the same time.” She sat back and looked over at him. Questions flitted across her face but she didn’t ask. He nodded. “Go on and ask me. You know you want to.” The seconds ticked by before she seemed to decide what she wanted to ask him about. “Where have you been all this time? You weren’t there when I started working for Will.” The question didn’t surprise him. Thoughts of how to answer her tumbled through his mind before he decided on the truth. “I’m the black sheep of the family. Well, not really the black sheep. My mother only wanted one child but she got two, and I was sort of left to my own devices. They tried to drum family duty into me, like Will, but it never stuck because I saw they were more devoted to Will than me. So I struck out on my own, did what I wanted instead of what they wanted for me. They never paid me much attention, don’t even know my abilities, so I learned by working overseas. It wasn’t until my father called me back for help with the business that I was able to put what I learned to use. So I’ve been here, there and all over, traveling where I wanted.” No judgment showed on her face. “So, why are you here and not with the family at Martha’s Vineyard?” He shrugged and plated the steaks, carrying them over to her and placing one in front of her. “Because they want me to marry a woman I don’t have any

interest in. Have you ever met Bunny?” She laughed. “The werewolf that looks like a carbon copy of Marilyn Monroe, only she’s a moron? Yup, I met her. She’s interesting, to put it politely. Although I can’t see you two getting on. In fact, I can’t see how she’d fit into the family. Your mother would kill her after one day of being related to you.” He grinned. “Yup, but she comes from a very influential pack and a wealthy one, at that. My mother and father are nothing if not prudent when it comes to doing things for status and the pack. What else do you want to know?” Ren hoped it was something he wanted to talk about. “Okay, we’ve gotten the gruesome out of the way, so music? Books? Clubs? Food? And go.” She cut into her steak with relish. He realized in that instant he hadn’t asked how she wanted it but she didn’t seem to protest as she put the food in her mouth and chewed, delight on her face. He wanted to keep her happy and would do anything in his power to act it out. You’re such a sap. He almost shook his head at that thought. Never had he fallen for a woman and wanted to please her without knowing much about her. Taking a sip of wine, he thought over his answers before responding. “I’ve read a lot of books. Can’t say I have one favorite in particular, and I haven’t read anything good in a while. As for clubs, that was more for when I was in my twenties and trying to figure things out and running away from my family. I

worked almost every job in a club there was. I had plenty of friends of friends to recommend me so I was a bouncer, a bartender, and even a DJ—a bad one, though.” He chuckled. “As for food, put it in front of me and I’ll eat it. I’ve dined in high-end restaurants and greasy spoons and out of roadside trucks and stands. I prefer good, home-cooked food and a family-themed restaurant along with hole in the wall places that offer a cozy, intimate atmosphere. Does any of this help?” He wasn’t sure if he was helping his position or making a complete ass out of himself. She shrugged. “Does what help? We’re trying to get to know each other. Now, if you’d lied…” The rest of the sentence was left unsaid, and he wasn’t sure how to respond. What exactly had Will told her about him, if anything at all? He didn’t want to bring down dinner by rehashing his past with his family. He thought he’d made that situation perfectly clear. “I’m not lying. I’m not sure why you’d imply that.” Ren was lost as to how to react. The atmosphere around them turned muddy, as if he were navigating through a swamp with no clear direction on how to proceed. “Not calling you a liar. But I’ve heard enough about you to wonder.” The words were said quietly, and he steeled himself to hear something bad, something that would turn this pleasant night into something ugly. “You’ve said your part and what was going on, and I understand that, but I can’t help

but wonder if you couldn’t have dropped your brother a postcard now and then.” She looked up. Anger sparked in her eyes, and understanding dawned on him. Will. Larissa was angry about the divide between him and his brother. He wouldn’t have expected anything less. She was Will’s loyal assistant and friend. Not just anyone could get an invite, much less free rein at Will’s private retreat. Sighing, he knew he’d have to address his relationship with his brother. Otherwise she would shut him down no matter how attracted they were to each other. “Will and I have had a complicated relationship since our childhood. I had a chip on my shoulder the size of Texas. I was angry at my parents for my treatment and angry at Will for falling in line with them at times when I needed him to defend me. Everything really came to a head when I was able to leave home at eighteen and not look back. I spent a lot of time trying to figure out who I was and what I really wanted. It took a lot of time to work through my anger toward my family and Will. I’m still dealing with the past but I returned to help and to get to know my brother. I didn’t think he wanted to know where I was or even cared if I was still alive. Harsh to say but things are complicated, and we’re trying to work through them. Anything else you want to know?” She was quiet for so long he wondered if she was having second thoughts on pursuing their attraction. Larissa nodded. “I just wanted to understand. I’m not

going to be caught between the two of you if there is bad blood. I love Will like a brother but at the same time I want to see where this goes.” She dazzled him with a smile. A sense of relief whooshed through him. Tension he hadn’t noticed before died down in his body. “I’m glad. So, how are you enjoying your steak? I forgot to ask you how you like it.” A wicked gleam sparkled in her eyes. He swallowed as a frisson of heat sizzled along his skin and arousal flared back to life in the pit of his stomach. “I’d like it even more if you moved a bit closer and told me things of an intimate nature.” She batted her eyelashes at him and laughed. Grinning he shook his head. “Intimate, huh? Ask away.” She pulled her chair closer until her foot brushed against his calf, sending shivers up his leg. He was sure she wouldn’t make things easy on him. She rubbed her foot against his calf and placed her elbows on the table, leaning forward and gazing at him. “You’re not even going to limit my questions?” A mysterious smile curved her lips. “Well, where to begin? Ah, I know. Why did you stop us earlier? I don’t buy that you want to take things slow. Even your brother doesn’t have that kind of self-restraint. Besides, there’s something more to this than you’re letting on.” What did is she mean by that? A flare of jealousy soured in his stomach. She waved a hand. “I can see where your

thoughts are going, and Will has never made a pass at me. And although he’s handsome, I’m not sexually attracted to him. So go on, explain away.” He swallowed. She could read him too easily, or perhaps it was the fact she’d been interacting with so many werewolves that she could see their moods. He wasn’t sure, but he also wasn’t sure if he should let her in on the mate aspect of all of this. She made a “come on” motion with her hand. “We don’t have all week. You tell me now, or I use drastic measures.” As if to prove her point, her foot glided up until she came to his thigh. His cock jerked, and his pants became uncomfortably tight. “If I tell you, will you promise not to freak out?” Ren started. “Go on.” She rested her chin on her hand and continued to gaze at him. He prayed she wouldn’t call him crazy and freeze him out. “You’re my mate.” The words were said in a rush. Ren waited for the fallout. “And?” There was expectation in that one word but no emotion whatsoever. He wasn’t sure if he should be happy or sad or scared. “You’re not disgusted or frightened?” He raised an eyebrow wondering where the trap was. She rolled her eyes. “I’ve been around werewolves for quite some time. My best friend is one. Just as long as you don’t get all possessive and expect me to rush into things we should be fine. So, I’m your mate. Okay. We can go from there.” He was relieved by her words. “I can understand

that. I’m not going to be like some werewolves who expect you to be subservient and quit working and all that. We can take things slow. I’m fine with that. What else.” A big weight had been removed, and he felt they could proceed. “You still haven’t answered my other question. Earlier? You stopped me.” She took a sip of wine but didn’t look away. Licking his lips, he met her gaze. “I wanted to take things slow, let you get to know me.” “And stopping me from making you come helped that?” She gave him an amused look and took another drink of wine. “Fine, but I really don’t want to go slow. We do what we want. I’m on vacation, and you’re playing hooky from your family. I think that deserves indulgence, yes?” His heart thudded against his chest. Indulge? Just like that? Do what we want? His wolf gave him a resounding Hell, yes! barking its approval. It liked its mate even more now that she’d demanded the kid gloves come off. “Yes.” He grinned as he allowed his arousal to grow and spread. Her foot continued to rest on his inner thigh but it didn’t move. Relaxing, he settled into his chair and decided it was time to do a bit of teasing back. He reached under the table and took up her foot, giving her a slow foot massage. Ren concentrated on the pressure points. He wanted her relaxed and open to him. “And we’re not even at dessert yet,” she purred.

“Dessert doesn’t have to be eaten immediately after dinner. Besides, you said we should indulge ourselves. And I want to indulge my desire to please you.” He pressed a point in her foot and watched her shoulders sink and her eyes roll back. “Please me?” she slurred. “Mm-hm. Please you, pleasure you.” Ren moved his touch up her calf, kneading the muscles with strong, sure pressure. “After this, we’ll have dessert, and I’ll continue this little massage, maybe inside?” When he’d first gotten to the house he’d made a quick search to make sure his brother had it stocked with everything he would need. Will had even made sure to include some of Will’s collection of lubes and toys. He especially wanted to use some of the vibrators he’d found with Larissa. He couldn’t help but wonder just how much he didn’t know about his brother. He just hoped that when he got home William hadn’t disowned him. “I like that plan, so why don’t we hurry things up a bit? You serve dessert and then we can go inside? I’m eager to have more of this pleasuring from you.” The husky sound of her voice slid up his spine and set his chest on fire. “I can do that.” He put down her foot and got up to get the ice cream. The night was really looking up.

***

William sat through dinner with gritted teeth. Bunny was prattling on about some inane thing or other. His parents had spent the last few hours insulting the absent Renault. As much as it angered him that Ren hadn’t shown up, sitting at the table made him see just why his brother was so opposed to the marriage. Bunny didn’t have the energy to rub two brain cells together and get an original idea. All she talked about was fashion, money, parties, and reality television. She didn’t seem interested in world events, and his parents thought she was just charming. Charming? Bunny didn’t have an ounce of tact or charisma. She was a carbon copy of the idiotic and brainless celebrities that were in vogue. Her whiny voice grated on his nerves. William would have left dinner but was too polite. Too many years of good breeding had been drilled into him by his mother and father. After enduring another fifteen minutes, and when he thought it was polite, he rose and left his parents to the mercy of their future daughter in-law. Although, which brother would marry her was the question. He couldn’t see Ren going through with it, and if his idea was correct, right now his brother was wooing Larissa, although whether she would accept him was another question.

Chapter Four Larissa felt her muscles melt. Every inch of her was warm. Relaxation crept through her with each rub of Ren’s palm and flex of his hand as he worked out all the tension. She’d gotten a massage before but never like this, and never from someone she wanted to have sex with. Ren ran his hands over her buttocks, squeezing the mounds with strong, sure ministrations before sliding up her back, his thumbs tracing along her spine. Small murmurs and sighs were drawn from her with each bit of pressure he used on her. She was liquid, floating on air and drifting in a warm sea. “You know,” she slurred. “You really don’t have to do this. We could get to the sex now. If you keep this up, I won’t remember my name, much less why I’m here. I may even fall asleep.” “Then go to sleep. I’ll wake you up,” he whispered. The words sent a ripple of desire up from her toes to the top of her head. She could only imagine how he would do it. Would he start off with kisses, or maybe go straight for her pussy? “Mmmmm…” There were no other words. She felt the ghost of his kiss on her instep. The touch didn’t stop there—it trailed up, along the side of her calf, her knee and her outer thigh. Each press of his lips on her skin set off ripples of heat that slipped

straight to her belly. She closed her eyes and savored the contact. He took his time with kisses and nips. The closer he got to her pussy, the more she squirmed closer, trying to move toward his mouth. The ache between her thighs grew. Liquid heat filled her core and dripped onto her thighs. She moaned and writhed closer to him. His hands gripped her thighs, holding her in place. All she could do was lay there and pray he would end the growing need. “Ren, please, kiss me,” she moaned as she felt his tongue slide along her inner thigh. “Where? Here?” He began to move down, away from her sex. She let out a torn cry and tried to get out of his hold. The pressure of his hands increased as he moved back towards her vagina. Arousal spiked the closer he got. Her desire coiled in the pit of her stomach in a tight spiral that made her writhe against the bed. She wanted to reach down and move things along. Her clit ached, throbbing for attention. “My pussy, God, just give me something, please,” she pleaded. He chuckled. “Something? Fine.” That single word sent a wave of relief and impatience through her. Seconds drew on and on and still no relief. He didn’t make a single move. Not toward her sex or away from it. His breath misted her skin. Sweat beaded on her brow. Her heart thudded heavily against her ribcage. She bit her bottom lip and tried to lift her hips. He pushed her down and pulled her toward the end of the bed.

“Naughty, naughty.” The first slap on her bottom stung. She jerked, crying out at the hit. The pain died away, leaving a wake of heat that spread through her lower half. He repeated the action on the other butt cheek. Again and again, striking her buttocks. Pain faded away, leaving only heat and need. Her vaginal walls quivered as her orgasm grew. Her sex was soaked. “Ren, please.” She wasn’t sure how else to say it. She felt the first flick against her clit and broke apart on a cry. He feasted on her sex with flicks and nips, sucking and rolling her clit in his mouth, driving her back to the precipice over and over again. She was lost in a cloud of heat, sweat and desire. When he stopped eating her out, she was sure that now he’d fill her with his cock. “Not done yet.” He gave her a sound smack on her butt. She heard him walk away and then return. Larissa didn’t have the energy to lift her head and look to see what he was up to now. She was worn out from his ministrations. Her muscles were relaxed, and she was floating on a golden cloud of bliss. Her butt cheeks parted, and she felt cool lube against her back entrance. Pleasure quaked through her at the thought of being taken there. She pushed her hips back at him, giving him no protest. Relaxing her back passage, she waited for him to sheath his cock and push his way in. She didn’t hear a tearing sound but felt something press against her sphincter. “Ren—” He cut off any protests. “Vibrator. Relax.”

She grinned and settled down, giving him no resistance. The sex toy pushed pasted the first ring and the second, stretching her. A burning sensation started, but no pain. Sighing, she waited for him to fill her pussy. Instead, Ren rolled her over onto her back and climbed up her body. He planted kisses along her stomach, between her breasts. Ren paused to flick her nipples, setting off sparks that shot straight to her pussy. He sucked one turgid peak into his mouth. With strong pulls, he shot bolts of electricity to her sex, starting the need all over again. Another orgasm began to build. With each tug, she was drawn closer and closer to the edge. Vibrations began in her back passage. Her pleasure spiked as she writhed underneath him. He released her nipple and switched to the other, giving it the same treatment. He covered her mouth with his, eating her cries as he pushed against her dripping entrance. Ren pushed into her slowly, filling her inch by each. Once he was halfway inside, he pulled back and shoved forward, sheathing himself inside her completely before withdrawing and rocking into her. She hooked her legs around his waist and rocked against him, meeting each of his thrusts. Pressure built inside her. Fire danced through her veins—the pleasure was so overwhelming, almost to the point of pain. She was tipped over to the side, falling into an abyss as white-hot desire filled her. He pulled his head back as he thrust into her, pounding her pussy.

She felt him expand inside her before he came on a wolfish howl. The sound echoed off the walls and filled the room. His eyes flashed to a molten gold before returning to hazel. The scent of sweat, sex, and musk filled the air. “My mate, Larissa.” He nuzzled her neck, his breath coming out in pants. She ran a hand through his damp hair and sighed. For the moment she felt at peace. As if nothing in the world could affect her as long as he was with her. Larissa could really see this mate thing working out.

*** Ren stretched. A warm body lay curled around his, her arms draped around his chest, one leg thrown over his hip and another caught between his legs. Larissa’s breath fanned against the flesh between his shoulders as her breasts pressed against his back. He could feel her tight nipples pressing into his skin. He let out a growl as his wolf awoke, and along with it the need. Blood pooled in his groin as his cock thickened and lengthened. “Morning,” Larissa murmured, her body sliding against his in a tempting glide that made him ache. “Morning, beautiful.” He wanted to ask her if she regretted anything they’d done. If she wanted to

continue exploring their attraction and getting to know each other. Now that things were progressing, he didn’t want there to be anything stopping them. “Don’t start. No regrets, and you better have a something planned for today. I don’t intend to spend it in bed. I’m human—I need time to recover.” She moved away from him, leaving him feeling cold but not lonely or unhappy. “Get moving, wolfie. I’m going to take a shower, and you better have breakfast started.” He rolled over and watched her walk toward the bathroom. Ren took a moment to enjoy the sway of her hips and the smooth gait of her walk. The morning light made her rich brown skin look smoother and bathed in gold. “Breakfast. Chop. Chop,” she called over her shoulder. The door slammed shut, and he couldn’t help but laugh. After a quick shower he started on a pancake batter mix and took out some bacon and eggs. He already knew what he wanted to do today. He’d start off by pampering her and making sure she didn’t lift a finger unless she had to, and then they’d have a picnic on the beach. And if everything went well they’d do a repeat of last night only out in the open. She’d trusted him, and that meant everything to him. Now to take things further. He finished cooking breakfast and set the table. After a few minutes, she still hadn’t come down. Perplexed, he went upstairs to see if there was something wrong. In her room, the windows were open, and the French doors were ajar. The scent of

salt, earth, sea and sunshine floated on the air. He could hear the patter of water on tiles. The bathroom door was open a crack. Steam floated out of the gap. A flash of her in the nude, water sliding over her skin in small rivers, dipping between her butt cheeks and riding along her curves appeared in his mind. He could just picture her with her head tilted back, eyes closed, body completely relaxed. Shuffling forward, he pushed open the door just a bit and peeked in to see if his imagination was right. It was. She stood under a waterfall—all the showerheads were going. Steam fogged up the windows and the mirrors and fixtures. Soap bubbles slid along her skin as she scrubbed herself clean. Turning around, she arched her back and stood under the spray. He was mesmerized by the way the water slid over her breasts, down her stomach and between her thighs. His cock stirred, pressing against his pants. Frozen on the spot, he just admired her, wanting to join her but not want to interrupt the moment. She opened her eyes and looked at him. A secretive smile curved her lips. She ran a hand over her curves, cupped her breasts and gave them a squeeze, pinched her nipples and then allowed her fingertips to drift down to her mound. Spreading her legs, she gave him an easy view of her sex. She parted her nether lips, and he watched as she rubbed her clit with her thumb and sunk two fingers into her pussy. With her other hand she squeezed and plumped her breast. Ren was rooted to the spot, unable to do anything

but watch. His mind and body seemed to be disconnected. One hand moved to his fly and took hold of his erection through the soft khaki material. Molding his hand around the thick shaft, he stroked the rod—up and down in a slow cadence. He matched the dance of her fingers on her clit. He undid his fly and tugged down his pants until his cock and balls were exposed. She paused in her ministrations, grabbed a bottle of oil and tossed it to him, an impish smile on her lips. “Show me,” she called out. He grinned back at her and nodded. Taking his hand off his erection, he grabbed a stool, lowered his pants past his knees and sat down. Popping the top of the oil, he squirted some into his hand. He grasped the rod again and waited for her to make a move. Nodding, she recommenced massaging her breast and pinching her nipple, transferring attention from one globe to the other. She leaned back, letting the water run over her. He watched, entranced; his own private show. With leisurely strokes he ran his hand up and down his thick rod, pausing to swipe the pre-cum leaking out of the slit on top of the crest before sweeping back down. They masturbated in unison, matching each other’s pace without missing a beat. Ren cupped his balls and rolled them in his hand. Heat and desire built inside him as his inner wolf awakened. The urge to shift shimmered in his veins but nothing happened. It just sat under his skin in a light buzz. The arousal took over his body and pushed aside any demand of his

wolf. The need in the air swirled around him. The scent of sex mingled with lavender and vanilla and sea. Fire trailed up and down his spine as desire hummed in his balls. His worldview narrowed to one crystalline moment just out of reach. With each brush of his hand, every squeeze on his balls the precipice drew closer and closer as the fire inside coiled tighter, winding itself into a pulsing knot. His heart thudded against his ribcage. Sweat sluiced down his forehead, trailed along his neck and traced the contours of his chest. Droplets traced his spine to dip into the well at the base of his back. He squirmed and pushed his hips forward. Tossing his head back, he increased the pace of his hand, flexing his hips in time. His grunts combined with her moans and the sound of the showerheads. He danced on a knife’s edge of climax. Larissa came on a breathless cry, his name bouncing around the bathroom, echoing back to him. That one husky sound drove him forward, pitching him headlong into the black abyss of pleasure. Lightning electrified every nerve ending. Desire burned through his veins as his cock throbbed and jerked in his hand. Cum slid over the flared crown and coated his hand. Ren cried out when he felt the soft lapping of a tongue on his slit. Looking down through a haze of sweat, he saw Larissa, dripping wet and on her knees, lapping at his seed, swirling her soft pink tongue around his cockhead. She swallowed the thick cap into her mouth and teased him with quick, deft

swipes and slow, teasing licks. Ren released his balls and threaded his fingers through her hair. In a tight grasp he held her still as he pumped his thick shaft into her mouth. The climax drew him closer and closer until, on one white burst of heat, he came, shouting out his release, spurting his seed into her mouth. Panting, he slumped on the stool and ran his hand through her hair. “Thank you, sweetheart. Thank you.” “Mmm, what a way to start the morning.” She tilted her head up, rose onto her knees and gave him a quick kiss. He could taste the musk and salt of his seed on her lips. It didn’t repulse him. “And now you should shower. I have breakfast to eat and I’ll make some lunch. We’ll spend time on the beach, skinny dip and lie around. No protests. I get to take care of you too, you know?” She stood and wrapped a towel around her before padding out of the bathroom. After another quick shower, he joined her in the kitchen. Satisfaction hummed through him. He was pleased by the start of the day. As much as he wanted to protest, he felt she really did want to take care of him this time, and he was going to let. For a while, at least. When he got to the table she had already changed into shorts, a tank top and flip-flops. They ate breakfast in a companionable silence, each seeming to be lost in their own thoughts. After breakfast, they did the dishes, her doing the washing, him the drying and putting away. They worked well together.

She put together a basket, grabbed a blanket and nodded toward the front door. “Let’s go.” Larissa grabbed a bag and opened the door. “Come on, wolfie. I don’t have all day. And if you behave, I’ll even let you run around in wolf form. The full moon is a few days away but I’m sure your inner canine is dying to get out and get some freedom.” He blinked. She wanted to see his wolf? Larissa was going to allow his wolf to roam free. And she wasn’t even scared? He was astounded. His wolf gave a bark of approval. Without giving her a chance to change her mind, he ran past her and stripped out of his clothes. Pain shot through his entire body. It seared through his muscles and tendons and set fire to his bones but he didn’t stop the shift. Once his inner wolf was free, it gave a bark of joy and ran out of the door and onto the sand. Her laughter trailed after him. The man in him took a backseat as the wolf took control. She spread out a blanket and set down the basket before settling down with a book. The sun illuminated her bare legs, arms, and a bit of her exposed chest. He ran through the surf but kept her within sight. It felt good to allow his wolf to stretch out its legs and just run around. The simple joy of running rushed through him. The morning died away. At noon, he laid down next to her, still in wolf form, panting but happy. She ran her hand through his wet fur and opened up the basket. She took out a ham sandwich and set it before

him while scratching behind his ear. His back left leg thumped as pleasure twitched through his body. He whined and nuzzled his nose in her palm before lowering his head to eat the cold meat and bread. The wolf lowered his head and closed his eyes. It was exhausted. Shifting back into man form, he stood and stretched. It had been a perfect day. After a quick dip in the ocean, he pulled her toward the house. “Let me get dressed, and then I’ll make dinner. Then we’ll have a sleep under the stars. You watch TV and I’ll get things started.”

*** Larissa didn’t bother protesting. She’d enjoyed the day so far and didn’t want to ruin it. If he was determined to continue pampering her, so be it. She was looking forward to a bit of cuddle time under the stars with him. It seemed as if his idea of relaxing was similar to hers, so there was no need to argue. Instead, she went up to her room, showered, and changed into a loose sundress with no bra or panties. She knew the night would end in sex. She was having far too much fun. Nothing to worry about. Her needs met by a gorgeous man who wanted to pamper and fuck her, and she was on an island with nothing to do but read, relax, and enjoy the gorgeous weather. She

almost didn’t want to go back to work. By the time she was done he had set up things for the bonfire and had the grill going. She blinked. “You wolves move fast. Need help?” She moved up behind him. He seemed more at ease. There was no tension in him whatsoever. “How about s’mores for dessert?” He glanced at her over his shoulder as he turned over the pieces of chicken and some vegetables. “How very camping out. Sure.” She moved away from him to gather up what they’d need. She set up a place with pillows and blankets and Thermoses of coffee. Larissa would have brought out some wine but didn’t want to be buzzed while enjoying his company. He’d already put together two plates and had filled two glasses with water. “You didn’t bring out wine…” He handed her a plate. “For a second there I thought you could read my mind.” She accepted what he’d offered and settled down at the table. When he didn’t join her, she looked up at him. “No table?” “Bonfire. Thought it would be more romantic.” He gestured toward the place she’d put together. “I love the way you think.” Without protest, Larissa got up and joined him on the blankets while he lit the fire. She settled against the pillows and began to eat. “So, we have five more days here. What exactly are we going to do? Things could get boring after a while.” He chuckled. “You don’t know me very well but

we’ll fix that. Besides, I have a plan. All you have to do is trust me.” She chuckled. “And what if I have a plan?” He was silent for a moment. “I suppose anything you think up we can work into what I’ve decided to do.” Snorting, Larissa shook her head. “Oh, my adorable little wolf, the tricks I could teach you.” He raised an eyebrow. “And what exactly does that mean?” She gifted him with a small smile. “You’ll see. So, you’ve told me about your relationship with your brother and your parents, and you’ve given me some idea of what you like to do and read so tell me, past relationships?” It was a touchy subject and probably far too soon to ask but she wanted to see just how honest he’d be with her. Without looking at her, he answered. “I’ve dated, been in relationships that lasted three months max but I’ve never really settled down. It’s similar to my wandering around. I just couldn’t find something to keep me there.” “Until me?” She waited for him to tell her some romantic nonsense. He shook his head. “I’d already decided to come back and mend fences with my family. Finding you was a bonus.” “Good answer, no bullshit detected. So when we get back to the mainland, how do you want to handle things? Just do the dating thing and see where it

goes?” She didn’t want to be stuck with someone trying to hold her back. Larissa had her own ideas of where she wanted to be. She had no intention of being Will’s assistant forever. Will had agreed to help her, show her the ropes. If Renny tried to hold her back because he believed his mate should be only be a secretary, she could see a problem. “We see where it goes. That’s all I’m asking. I know once I get back there’ll be a chance I’ll have to find a new job. Bailing out on the family reunion isn’t going to be easy to explain, much less acceptable, especially since my intended was supposed to be there. I’m sure Will has blown up my phone and filled my inbox with all sort of messages. He’ll be especially pissed with me.” Guilt flashed across his face. “So tomorrow you call him and find out if we need to we go back early.” She shrugged. And if I need to I’ll talk to Will myself. Larissa didn’t say that last bit out loud. She doubted that Ren would want her involved. But she was. Whether he liked it or not, she wasn’t going to let the brothers be torn apart because of this. “Okay.” There was a tremble of fear in his voice. In that instant he looked like a little boy, afraid of showing his parents his report card because of a bad grade. In that moment she realized there was a lot of emotion in that situation. She wanted to help him in any way she could. “Don’t worry, you’ll have me in your corner. I promise you, I’ll help in any way I can.” She meant

every word. “Thank you.” He reached out and took hold of her hand, giving it a squeeze. She realized sex wasn’t what was needed. Just some time spent together. They finished their meal, and she moved closer to him, laying her head on his shoulder. He pulled a blanket over them, and for a while they stared at the bonfire. All was right in the world. Everything seemed settled. Her eyelids grew heavy, and a yawn grew in her throat. It had been a long day. Despite all the lying around she’d done she was still tired. Not bothering to fight it, she closed her eyes and snuggled against him. When he woke her, the moon was up, and the stars were shining brightly in the sky. He handed her a s’more with the chocolate melting and the marshmallow trying to ooze out between the graham crackers. Giggling, she accepted the proffered treat and listened as he regaled her with tales of his childhood and the first time he went camping. She wasn’t sure when she fell asleep again but when she awoke this time the sun was rising over the water. Layers of orange, yellow, pink and purple painted the sky. He sat next to her, his hair disheveled and a bit of scruff on his cheeks. “I’m going to call the plane and have it come out tomorrow. You can stay if you want but I have to talk to my family. Alone. Talking to you made me realize that if we’re going to be together I have to come clean to them. Running away solves nothing.”

She ran a hand through his hair and smiled, feeling pride swell in her chest. “Okay. But I’ll stay here if you don’t mind.” He gave her a look. “Oh sure, I go off to the firing squad and you’ll be sipping mimosas.” He smirked. She grinned sweetly back at him. “Not my fault you’re a coward.” Sticking her tongue out at him, she pushed the blanket off her and stood up. “You clean up here, and I’ll go shower and start breakfast. And yes, I’ll be doing the cooking today.” Without waiting for a reply, she headed back up to the house.

Chapter Five Ren squirmed in his seat on the plane. When he’d spoken to William on the phone he hadn’t been able to tell just how angry his brother was with him. He and Larissa had made love before he’d left. The thought of not seeing her again for four more days made him uneasy. She’d been sure that everything would be fine but he wasn’t so sure. He could see how childish he’d been in running away, and yet he hadn’t seen any other way to escape and think. Finding Larissa on the island had just given him less to plan, and the fact that she was willing to explore a relationship with him only made him feel more at ease in that department. When the plane landed, his brother was waiting for him at the car. Ren’s heart stuttered, and perspiration broke out at his brow and on his upper lip. With a deep breath he approached his sibling. The fact William had broken away from the family reunion early didn’t bode well. William opened the car door for Ren and slid in after him before ordering the driver to take them to Ren’s apartment. Nothing was said, leaving Renny uncomfortable. He opened his mouth to start but Will beat him to it. “Not showing up to the family reunion was childish, cowardly, and irresponsible. I know you don’t like Binny but having the decency to tell her to

her face would have been better than leaving us to beg her pardon and make explanations. We told her you’d been called away to work and couldn’t make it.” Ren shut his mouth, unsure of what to say. They’d made excuses for him instead of hanging him out to dry? He wasn’t sure how to take that. Thank you seemed inadequate, and yet he told his brother that anyway. Will brushed the gratitude aside. “It wasn’t because of you that we did it. The family has to save face, but it wouldn’t have mattered. Mother’s broken your engagement. She and Bunny got into a fight, and let’s just say things were said that couldn’t be taken back. You’re a free man but you’ll still have to make things up to them. Coming back is a start.” “I’m not sorry she’s not going to connect me with Bunny, and I’m not sorry I didn’t go,” Ren started slowly. “I got to spend time with Larissa, my mate, and she helped me see that I did need to come back.” “Larissa has always had a good head on her shoulders,” William responded quietly. “Yes, she does, and I’m lucky to have her. I do intend to make it up to you and the family. I really want to get to know you all again, to really show you that I’m staying this time and want to be part of the family. You just have to give me a chance.” William sighed. “I’ve been doing some thinking as well. Having you around as of late has shown me just how much I missed my brother, and I’m sorry if I came off as thinking that you hadn’t done the report.

Can we—can we start over?” Renault looked at his brother. Tears formed in his eyes as he nodded. “I’d love that. I don’t think we can start over but we can just go from here. How’s that?” He waited for his brother to reject this idea but William turned and smiled at him. “Okay. Now, tell me about how your time with Larissa on the island went. I’m sure she opted to stay? She didn’t want to risk coming back and seeing the pile of crap I put on her desk, did she?” He smiled. Ren laughed. “That, and she wanted to have an actual vacation.” He launched into an abridged version of his mini-vacation with his mate.

*** Larissa didn’t want to go into the office. In fact, she didn’t want to believe she had a job that involved work. Instead, she dragged herself in, feeling grumpy and apprehensive of what William had left for her. After she’d come home she’d crawled into bed to adjust from the plane ride home. Ren had called to check in on her but she’d been too sleepy to return his call. When she’d woken up, she’d found breakfast already cooked. She’d made a mental note to tell Ren that breaking into her apartment was more stalkerlike than romantic. Larissa wouldn’t complain about breakfast though. There was no arguing with

cinnamon rolls in orange glaze sauce and rich mocha cinnamon latte with whipped cream on top. Gotta love a wolf who wanted his woman to eat and indulge in the good things in life. She went to her desk to find that it had been cleared away, and some blonde woman was sitting at it. The mysterious woman even had small plants and photos up. Confused, she walked into William’s office without knocking. “Where the hell is my stuff?” she demanded, not bothering to act calm. Will came forward, a serious look on his face. “Rissa, I’m sorry. I had to fire you.” She stared at him as ice flooded her body. Fired? She didn’t have a job? It didn’t compute. Her legs shook and her knees turned to jelly. Will caught her and guided her to a chair. “Shit, I’m sorry, that didn’t come out right. I had to let you go from my department. You’re overqualified. You’ve been transferred to a department where you can learn hands-on. Basically, you’ve been promoted.” He smiled at her, and she wanted to punch him for scaring her. Rather than give him the satisfaction of seeing her relief, she stood up. “Where am I going?” “You’re now working on the tenth floor. You’re to report to your new boss immediately. I’ll buzz up and let him know you’re on your way—and Riss, I’m sorry.” He held out his hand and she didn’t take it. “You owe me lunch, then I’ll consider touching you again.” Lifting her chin, she left the office and got on the elevator. The shock had worn off, and now she

was nervous. She felt like the new kid at school. Will had made sure she knew every head of the departments and their assistants. It didn’t matter. She was still taking on a new job. She wasn’t sure how this new boss would treat her or if he knew her capabilities. Stepping off the elevator at the tenth floor, she was confronted by only one desk and no other cubicles. Confused, she headed to the office of the head of the department. She realized Will hadn’t told her who that was, and that scared her even more. Straightening to her full height, she knocked on the door and waited. “Come in,” called a muffled voice. She opened the door and stepped inside only to stop dead. Ren sat behind a desk looking over some folders. He looked up and grinned. “Hello, sweetheart. Good to see you here. Please have a seat.” She didn’t move. “You’re my new boss?” “Yes, and you work with me. We’ll be doing research and traveling extensively to scout out new opportunities. Please sit down—you look shaky. I’m getting worried.” He pushed back his chair and stood up. “You’re worried? I thought I was fired.” She shut the door. It occurred to her that she hadn’t seen him in four days. A tug in her stomach reminded her of how lonely those nights had been. “Forget telling me about my job—I think you need to greet your mate properly.” He gave her a dazzling smile that weakened her

knees all over again. “I think we can do that. How about I take you out for a long, leisurely lunch and we reacquaint ourselves with each other?” The wicked glint in his eyes told her everything she needed to know. Holding out her hand she said, “Let’s go.” Ren couldn’t have been happier. He had his mate, and he was repairing his relationship with his family and helping out in the family business. Life was perfect, and he had that lovely island and beautiful woman to thank. Taking her hand, he guided her out of the office for a bit of afternoon delight and a little early dessert.

~ End ~

~ About the Author ~ Unmask Your Desires. Satiate Your Hungers. Author, part vampire, part pixie, Selena Illyria was born with a need to write and enable. Her imagination takes her into the paranormal, sci-fi and fantasy genres, and all sorts of mischief. When not writing, she enjoys catching up on her TBR pile, watching some of her favorite programs, listening to her favorite music, as well as teasing people with posts on decadent food and plot bunnies. Find out more about Selena Illyria here: Website: http://www.selenaillyria.com Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/SelenaIllyria/100175079107?ref=nf Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/Selena_Illyria

~ Coming Soon ~ Ringed City Tales: The Hunt Dragon New Year: Dragon Ugly Bachelor Auction: Mate Not Wanted © 2012 Selena Illyria