In a Stranger's Arms

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The scanning, uploading and distribution of this book via the Internet or via any other means without the permission of the publisher is illegal, and punishable by law. Please purchase only authorized electronic editions, and do not participate in or encourage the electronic piracy of copyrighted materials. Your support of the author’s rights is appreciated. This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents either are products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events or locales or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental. In a Stranger’s Arms Tarot Series - Death Copyright © 2007 Tianna Xander ISBN: 1-55410-805-5 Cover art and design by Angela Waters All rights reserved. Except for use in any review, the reproduction or utilization of this work in whole or in part in any form by any electronic, mechanical or other means, now known or hereafter invented, is forbidden without the written permission of the publisher. Published by eXtasy Books Look for us online at: www.extasybooks.com

To Sandi. Thanks for catching all those inconsistencies.

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ampires? You have got to be kidding me.” Callie Obermeyer stared at her best friend, Mandy as though she’d just told her the Earth was flat. “I’m serious,” Mandy said, taking another bite of her turkey sandwich. She tapped the tabloid on the table in front of her. The headline read, Vampire Killer Claims Fifth Victim in bold lettering. “It says right here, that there have been several women found with their blood drained. And they say there were puncture wounds somewhere on the bodies.” Callie shook her head. “Please, don’t continue. I don’t think I can take it.” “You mean you don’t want to have nightmares,” her friend said with a smirk. “Whatever. I like to sleep, so sue me.” “So what’s up with Joey?” Mandy asked, taking a bite of her salad. “Did you finally dump him?” “Yeah.” Callie set down her fork and wiped her mouth with the paper napkin she’d pulled from 1

Tianna Xander the holder on the far end of the table. She pushed the dish of assorted sweeteners aside and grinned. “He took it rather badly.” She shrugged. “I would have thought he’d be relieved. I know he’s seeing that girl across town.” “How could you not? He paraded her around to everyone who knew you. Someone was bound to tattle.” Mandy tossed her head, flipped her blonde hair over her shoulder, then looked toward the door and gave a low whistle. “Will you look at that?” Her gaze followed three men who had just entered the restaurant. “I got dibs on the tall blonde. You like ‘em tall, dark and handsome anyway,” she said with a shiver, completely ignoring her salad and sandwich. Callie tried not to pay attention to the handsome men as they walked past the table. She would not acknowledge them, even though all of them were well over six-feet tall with broad shoulders, narrow hips, and rear ends to die for. She rested her chin in her hand and resolutely refused to turn her head their way. “Maybe he just thought I’d forgive him because of the great sex. What he doesn’t know is that most of the time I faked it.” Mandy’s eyes rounded. “You didn’t!” “Yes, I did.” Callie giggled. “He couldn’t imagine a woman who could resist his many charms.” 2

In a Stranger’s Arms “I can,” Mandy said, rolling her eyes. “Don’t look now, but I think Mr. Tall, Blonde and Handsome is looking your way.” Mandy turned to give the man a once over and sighed. “He is fine.” She waved. “Look, his friend is waving at you.” “No he’s not.” Callie shook her head. “He’s waving his hand in front of your admirer’s face to get his attention.” “Oh,” she sighed. “I’m sure we could still double. They are all hotties.” “You can go.” She leveled her gaze on her friend, serious. “But please let someone know you are going out with him first.” Casting a quick glance to the tabloid, she tapped her finger on the paper. “Just in case.” **** The loud wail of the banshee called him to the house. The wind howled, accompanying the otherworldly screech that made his blood run cold. The demon was close to making another kill. Gunther Andarton made his way swiftly through the underbrush, ignoring the briars that dug into his flesh as he ran toward the little cottage. His only thought was to save whatever poor, pathetic creature the demon had singled out this night. Peering through the window, into the darkened 3

Tianna Xander interior, he watched a woman throw her head back and scream in the throes of an orgasm, a man’s dark head buried between her legs. The firelight played over her olive colored skin, her black hair gleamed blue-black in the orange light and her chest heaved as she fought to catch her breath. Soon, the man lifted his head. His eyes glittered with menace, their color a dull orange, and he bared his lengthened canines. The woman still lay gasping beneath him, apparently unaware of her lover’s ghastly change. He laved the crease of her thigh with his tongue. She couldn’t have realized his intent as she spread her legs wider to accommodate him. He smiled evilly. “I am darkness,” he said, just before he buried his elongated teeth into her femoral artery. Gunther tensed for a second before he flew into action. Using his preternatural strength, he jumped and burst through the window, landing beside the life-sucking spawn from Hell. He growled into the creature’s ear as he easily snapped its neck. “And I am Death.” He stared at the dead creature he still held in his hands, a blank expression on his face. Dropping the body, Gunther stepped over the lifeless form and hurried to staunch the blood flowing freely from the woman’s thigh. “Your life has been forever changed,” he said, 4

In a Stranger’s Arms when she finally opened her glazed gray-green eyes. “Know that if you choose life, you will never be the same.” He stopped for a moment, giving her time to digest what he’d said. Gunther stared into her dull, nearly lifeless eyes and let down his guard. She raised her head and met his gaze, almost defiantly. Her eyes widened when she spotted his lengthening incisors and his iridescent red pupils. “Live or die. Your choice.” “Live,” she croaked. She began to shiver and shake as her body struggled to keep itself warm without the much-needed blood circulating through her veins. Gunther fell upon her, his body aching for a release he knew was not forthcoming as he landed between her legs. He ignored the softness of her skin and the alluring scent of her arousal. The satiny comforter teased his too sensitive flesh. “You’re certain?” he asked again. He would allow her one last chance at death before taking her. “To give you the gift of life I must join our bodies. Do you consent?” He found, throughout the years, that giving a demon’s victim another orgasm would open her mind, her soul, to what he was about to do. Even in her weakened state, disbelief could reject his efforts and she would die anyway. He must have complete control over her mind. Only a complete joining would give him 5

Tianna Xander that immense power and assure that her skepticism would not intrude. Her life force ebbed further from him. The situation grew urgent, yet he did not pressure her. This was a decision she must make on her own. The woman nodded. She was so weak the movement was almost imperceptible. “I want to live.” Her voice was a mere thread of sound as she confirmed her decision. Gunther raised himself up, positioned his cock at the entrance of her still dripping sheath and bared his teeth. “The price of life…is death.” He sank his teeth deep into her neck and drew every last drop of blood from her veins. He took the blood into his body and changed it. His advanced cells and organs converted the woman’s blood back to its original human state, with only a few exceptions. The woman would forever be linked to his kind. Hunters, like him, would always know where she was, and what she was doing. She would no longer crave the sexual advances of a stranger and the sexual act would take on a new meaning. From this day forward, she would require love from her partner instead of a brief sharing of their bodies. First, she would sleep the clock around, and then she would wake to a new life. Gunther’s system finished filtering the demon’s 6

In a Stranger’s Arms toxins from the woman’s blood. He bent his head back to her neck and bit down one last time. Blood rushed from his teeth, back into her veins. His body even utilized some of his own blood to make her stronger. She had chosen; she must live. Forever linked to his kind, she would no longer go searching for one night stands. She would never realize that empty sex would not appeal to her again. She would live her life blissfully without sex, never even thinking about it, unless she found the one of his kind that was her match in all things. She was alive and that was enough. He knew he would need to feed again later but the blood he gave her was a loss he could afford. Her body began to warm as he stimulated her heart with his hands. Pressing on the center of her chest, he manually worked the enhanced blood to her brain. The whole process took less than three minutes. The advanced virus he released into her bloodstream would monitor her movements and actions. It would also keep her healthy. She would both look and feel younger than her age—most importantly though, she would never again succumb to the false allure of another demon. Gunther pulled from her moist sheath, his body aching with need. He hadn’t spent himself within the woman’s softness. He’d known he wouldn’t when he began the ritual. The demon had taken 7

Tianna Xander too much blood and there hadn’t been time for him to seek release before the woman climaxed and lost consciousness. He refused to sate himself within the body of a near comatose woman. A man had to have some principals. Standing, he clothed himself in the way of his people. Clean clothing appeared on his body with a thought. He looked to the demon’s body on the floor in front of the glowing hearth and the window he’d shattered when he’d burst in to save the woman. Using his experience, born of years of hunting the demons and other creatures who stalked the night, he began to erase the evidence of their presence from the woman’s home. The demon’s broken body disappeared and he repaired the window with little more than a careless thought and the wave of his hand. He may have never known love, but he would be damned if anyone would be able to say he had no feelings. Carefully, He covered the woman with the satiny comforter, waved a hand to clear her home of dirty dishes and laundry. She would truly start her life anew when she woke. Placing two more logs on the fire, Gunther took one last look around the sparsely furnished home and disappeared. Until she met her mate, the woman would remember this night as nothing more than a bad dream.

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In a Stranger’s Arms **** Callie sat and stared at the blank monitor. “Just one sentence, one lousy little sentence. Can it really be that hard?” she mumbled, as her fingers hovered over the keyboard. “One great opening sentence and I’ll be on a roll.” She sat and stared at the computer screen for a few more moments then sat back and groaned. “Muse, schmooze.” She wadded up a piece of paper and threw it across the room. It hit the wall with a dull thwap and fell to the floor amidst others of its ilk. “My muse must be on a sabbatical to the outback of Australia. Or maybe she’s holed up with a nice cabana boy somewhere in South America.” Callie pushed away from the desk and stood. She tilted her head back and yelled at the ceiling. “I hope you’re having a good time, dammit! The least you could do is bring me back a nice t-shirt.” A loud thumping noise came from the apartment next door and she shook her head. “You’d think she’d at least pull her bed away from the wall before she started going at it.” Yech! Like I want to hear that. She stomped down the stairs and into her kitchen. The last thing she wanted was to be an unwilling witness to her neighbor’s sexual exploits. Suddenly a loud wail came from next 9

Tianna Xander door. “Hey! Keep it down over there, will ya?” Callie banged the wall for emphasis then made a grab for the remote and turned on the TV. “…Found with puncture wounds in their femoral arteries.” The woman on the screen looked directly into the camera. Her face was devoid of any expression as she read the teleprompter. “Authorities report there was blood at the scene but say not enough for the victim to have bled out onto the floor.” The woman’s lips turned up in a nervous smile, obviously uncomfortable with what she was about to say. “Some tabloid reporters speculate that there is a vampire in our city. Are all of these cases connected as they seem, or are the deaths of the five women merely a coincidence?” Callie turned off the TV, her mouth hanging open in shock. The obnoxious noise from next door had finally stopped and now her townhouse was ominously silent. Suddenly she wanted noise—and lots of it. She checked her windows and doors before she brought herself back to her senses and reaffirmed her statement from earlier. “Vampires. What utter nonsense. The next thing you know, people are going to entertain the idea that there are banshees and ghosts too.” She stomped back up the stairs to her bedroom, sat at her desk and leaned over the keyboard. “So 10

In a Stranger’s Arms what if I can’t write? I can still e-mail with the best of them.” **** Gunther strode into the townhouse, knowing he was too late. His preternatural senses told him the demon was gone and the woman was already dead. She lay atop her bed, naked. The blue satin comforter cradled her lifeless body. Her legs were spread wide, almost as if in invitation. The ugly bite wounds on her upper thigh trickled the last few drops of blood onto the bed below her. The wail of a nearby banshee gave him a warning. He turned, ignoring the woman’s mewling cat and left. As he walked, he pulled his cell phone from his pocket and called the police. There wasn’t much else he could do for the poor woman. The least he could do was see that her body was discovered before it began to decompose. At least her family would be able to have an open casket if they desired. He hurried outside as he made the call. The wail of the banshee came again, leading him to the townhouse next door. Gunther was certain whoever lived in the home had heard the demon make his kill. If it were a woman, she would be the demon’s next target. Even as lazy as they were, they hated leaving 11

Tianna Xander loose ends. He left the house and crossed the road. Sitting among the bushes across the street, he settled in to wait.

12

In a Stranger’s Arms

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refuse to stay home out of fear, Callie. I’ll stay put because I’m tired, sick or just plain broke but I will not stay home because of fear.” Mandy looked in the mirror, checking her make-up. She bared her teeth to check for lipstick and patted her hair down before she glanced back at Callie. “I—I don’t know, Mandy. It seems like we’re borrowing trouble by going out tonight. Especially with what happened to Holly last night.” Callie couldn’t shake the feeling that she should have done something. She’d even heard her neighbor scream...and done nothing. It didn’t matter that she’d been sure the scream was one of passion, not fear. She looked down at her clasped hands and interlaced her fingers to keep them from shaking. Mandy reached out and covered her hands. “Stop blaming yourself, will you? Given Holly’s sexual habits, I would have thought the same thing. Face it, she was a freak. She’d get it on with anyone with a dick. You know that.” 13

Tianna Xander Deep down, Callie did know that. Holly had been like the proverbial village bicycle. It still didn’t stop the guilt from beating at her. “I just don’t feel like going out. Besides, I don’t know if I could…” How could she party tonight, knowing that her next-door neighbor had just been murdered? Mandy snorted. “We’re talking about Miss Narcissistic, Callie. She would never expect you to grieve for her because she certainly never would have grieved for you. And, I know for a fact that she wouldn’t want you to blame yourself. If anything, she’d want you to go out and have a good time on her behalf.” She stood up and grabbed Callie’s arm. “Come on, let’s go.” She let her friend pull her to her feet, still unconvinced. “Okay. But I’m not picking anyone up.” That wasn’t her style anyway. Mandy looked at her and winked. “Even if it’s one of those scrumptious guys from the restaurant?” “Especially if it’s one of those guys.” She shook her head and smiled wanly. The thought of meeting up with them was just plain creepy. It could mean that one or both of them were being stalked. The bar was hopping when they arrived. Having dressed in their skimpiest outfits as a tribute to Holly—who had helped them with their 14

In a Stranger’s Arms purchases—they were ushered past the line and into the building immediately. The crush of bodies and the odor of too many perfumes mixed with aftershave and sweat was enough to turn Callie’s stomach. Loud techno dance music blared through the speakers and a large spinning ball reflected the colorful lights aimed in its direction, causing prisms of color to dance among the people weaving back and forth across the floor. “I don’t know if I can stay here,” she yelled across the small table. “I think I’m going to be sick.” She pressed her hands against her stomach, willing what little she’d been able to eat to stay where it belonged. Mandy’s eyes widened and she grinned at someone behind her. “Guess who’s here?” She pointed to a table a few feet away. “How lucky is it that we’ve been seated so close to them?” Frowning, Callie turned to see whom her friend was talking about even though she was sure she knew. “They’re following us,” she hissed. “Can’t you see that? How could they have known we were here?” Mandy rolled her eyes. “Get real, Cal. They were sitting there when we got here.” She grinned at the blonde, and wiggled her fingers. “Hi, honey.” She turned to Callie. “Do you think he’d dance with me if I asked?” 15

Tianna Xander Callie shrugged. “Probably. Just promise me that you won’t go home with him.” “I can’t promise that. I don’t usually go for one night stands, but this guy is hot.” She stood up and pushed her chair under the table. “I’m gonna go see if he wants to hit the dance floor.” She frowned. “Although, he does look a bit preoccupied.” Callie turned to see all of the men at the table looking around. They searched the room with their eyes. Something was going on. She wasn’t sure what, but she knew the look of impending conflict when she saw it. Grabbing Mandy’s arm, she pulled her back to her seat. “Ow! Will you stop that?” she rubbed her arm. “What the hell was that for?” “Something is going down. I’m not sure what, but your friend and his buddies are a bit preoccupied.” Callie bit her lip. “I’m beginning to wonder if they aren’t cops or something. They act a bit like undercover police officers, don’t they?” She took her own advice and really looked at the men. They were all large and muscular. Though each one of them was very well dressed, she still felt they were undercover police. All over six feet tall, they had the distinct look of well-paid male models. But, their attitudes screamed law enforcement. Maybe these guys modeled for this year’s calendar. If so, she’d buy two copies. 16

In a Stranger’s Arms The men stood in unison and their chairs slid across the floor with an audible screech. They looked at each other then without a word, moved away from the table. If she didn’t know better, she’d think they were stalking something... or someone. She nearly sighed with relief. Cops, they’re definitely cops. It was a good thing, too, considering that Mandy had the hots for one of them. Better a cop than a serial killer. Callie watched as the men moved through the bar, slowly approaching another handsome man dancing with a woman. One of them cut in and flirted with the older woman while the other two took the man away. Had she not been watching closely, Callie would have thought the whole exchange was nothing more than a group of friends leaving the bar together, but she’d noticed the fear on the one man’s face. He definitely wasn’t a happy camper. The third man returned the woman to her table. He held her chair for her as she sat, then turned to leave. Mandy walked up to him, said something and pointed her way. Callie groaned. “Please don’t bring him over here.” As luck would have it, the man left behind was the one with dark hair. The one Mandy would feel it her God-given right to fix her up with. The one she’d been secretly drooling over and dreaming of 17

Tianna Xander since she’d first seen him. Why could things never be easy? Tonight was about to turn into one of the top ten most embarrassing nights of her life. She just knew it. **** Gunther turned toward the woman he’d watched since her neighbor had been murdered. Her friend bounced back to their table, obviously pleased with capturing his attention. He scanned the bar, trying to find the other presence. He’d removed one threat from the bar, but the other remained elusive. The demon must be very old, very experienced. He must have felt the presence of the hunters within the club, even with the many humans here. Having overheard the conversation between the two women earlier, he’d learned where they were going and managed to arrive before them. At least this way it didn’t look like he’d followed them. Long red hair flowed down around her shoulders, framing her heart shaped face and rosebud lips. Sea blue eyes gazed up at him through thick lashes with little interest. Her lack of sexual awareness was a shock. It was almost a slap to his ego. Never in his considerable existence had any woman looked at him with such a lack of 18

In a Stranger’s Arms desire. He didn’t know whether to be amused or concerned over her completely unsatisfactory reaction. Gunther turned and readjusted his package. He grinned at the thought. His package. What a wonderful new term for it. For it certainly was a gift to whichever woman he decided to gift with it. He leveled his gaze on the beautiful redhead. “And you’re next, sweetheart.” With his attention focused so intently on the woman, everything around him appeared to move in slow motion. The way her hair caressed her back as she turned to talk with her friend, the subtle shift of her narrow shoulders as she sat up a bit straighter in her seat. When she turned his way and their gazes met, her cheeks turned a becoming shade of pink. He liked a woman who could still blush so easily, in this day and age. It usually meant they weren’t likely candidates for a demon’s attention. Demons were, as a rule, lazy beings. They loved murder and mayhem but the less work needed to accomplish it, the better. Gunther stood near the dance floor watching the woman. Her graceful movements ensnared his attention. She laughed and covered her face with her hands at something her friend said and he strained to hear what they talked about. Yet, even with his particularly enhanced hearing, he couldn’t pick out what they said. 19

Tianna Xander Something to his left caught his eye and he turned, expecting to see another demon. They looked human to mortals. To him, they looked like the monsters they were. He ignored the sea of humanity that flowed around him. Normally, if he weren’t on a hunt, the stench of too many colognes and sweaty bodies would have chased him from an establishment such as this one by now. But, tonight, he hunted a different type of prey. **** Callie’s face burned. She fought the urge to put her hands to her cheeks. The most handsome of the group of men they’d seen, suddenly took an interest in her. He moved toward her slowly, easily avoiding the dancers as they gyrated about him. Not one person bumped or jostled him as he steadily made his way to their table. “Ooh, Callie. I think you just lucked out. Mr. Tall-dark-and-handsome is headed our way and he’s looking right at you.” Callie heard Mandy’s comment, but it barely registered. The skin on her arms prickled and she ran her hands up and down her exposed flesh to dispel the goose bumps. Why can’t I look away? Why do I want nothing more than to jump him all of a sudden? 20

In a Stranger’s Arms She locked gazes with him and was unable to turn away—even though she wanted to. She didn’t want to lead him on, knew staring at him like this was a blatant invitation, yet she couldn’t stop herself. The man was incredible. At least sixfour, he exuded pure masculinity. His dark eyes held a sensual invitation. As he moved closer, she noticed they weren’t brown, as she’d originally thought. In this light and from this distance, they appeared black. When he stopped next to her seat and held his hand out, she almost panicked. “Dance with me.” It wasn’t a question. He clearly expected her to take his hand and walk to the dance floor with him. She stared at the proffered hand for a second before placing her own in his, unable for whatever reason to refuse his demand. Warm fingers closed around her hand and lightning shot up her arm at the contact. Callie licked her lips, and cast a quick glance at Mandy. Her friend shrugged and grinned. “Don’t mind me. I’m waiting for the golden boy to come back.” She waved them away. “I’ll be fine. I promise.” With a gentle tug, he pulled her to her feet, took her under his arm and they made their way to the dance floor. “I’ve never seen you here before,” he said, as he wrapped his arms around her. The shock of his hand holding hers was nothing 21

Tianna Xander compared to the way it felt when he took her into his embrace. Callie closed her eyes and took a deep breath. It would take every bit of strength and self-control she had to keep herself from falling into bed with this man. He exuded sensuality. How would she ever tell him no, if he asked her to go home with him? As luck would have it, the next song was a slow one that she liked. The man pulled her tight against his hard body and began to move to the rhythm. It wasn’t the inexperienced swaying of a man who didn’t know how to dance, but a slow controlled waltz of a man who knew just what he was doing. Callie had the ridiculous urge to ask him where he’d been all her life. She gazed up at him, uncertain. She wasn’t sure she could participate in a one-night stand, even as turned on as she was. She was certainly no prude, but she didn’t give herself freely, either. Standing within his arms, she knew this could easily turn into something she wasn’t ready for. Just his close proximity made her whole body burn. She’d never been this attracted to any man before. Was it him or had her neighbor’s death affected her in some way? “I am called Gunther.” The low timbre of his voice startled her back to the present and she blinked. Be still my heart. She hadn’t noticed that cool accent when he’d asked her to dance. But, 22

In a Stranger’s Arms then again, with the noise coming from the table beside them she wouldn’t have heard it anyway. The mild accent, a cross between German and British, was a strange but nice mixture. She smiled and her lips wobbled a bit. “My name—” she cleared her throat. “My name is Callie.” He raised one perfectly arched ebony brow. “And Callie is short for . . .?” Her cheeks grew warm again and she bowed her head. “My parents went to Hollywood for their honeymoon. Mom loved California so much that when she found out I was conceived there, she decided to name me after the state.” “Your name is California?” Callie didn’t know whether to be amused or insulted by his incredulous look. She chose amused and laughed. “No, thank goodness, my father was able to talk her out of that. My given name is Callie.” Gunther smiled. “It’s different. I like it.” His unique scent filled her senses as he led her around and she nearly lost her balance. “Careful now,” he said, tightening his arms around her. “I apologize for my lack of talent on the dance floor. No wonder you stumbled. Tripped over my big clumsy feet, eh?” Her cheeks burned and she fought the urge to bury her face in his chest. He wasn’t clumsy. 23

Tianna Xander Anything but, actually. He’d drawn her across the dance floor on a smooth glide. If she hadn’t already pegged him for a member of law enforcement, she would think him a professional dancer. “You aren’t clumsy and you know it. It’s me. I just…” She let her voice trail off and tried to think what excuse she could give him for not being able to keep her balance. It wasn’t as if she could tell him, ‘excuse me, mister, but you turn me on to distraction’. That just wouldn’t cut it. “I—I just felt a bit dizzy for a minute is all.” The concern on his face made her feel like a jerk. “Then I should escort you back to your table if you’re not feeling well.” “No—no. I’m fine,” she hurried to interject. Now that she found herself in his arms, she didn’t want it to end, just yet. Even though they’d just met, she couldn’t keep her thoughts from becoming carnal, no matter how hard she tried. She wasn’t ready for another commitment. Joey had left her emotionally battered. Scarred and wary, it would be a long time before she’d be able to let someone in again. Though allowing herself to have sex with the man was out of the question, it didn’t mean that she couldn’t enjoy his company for a while or fantasizing about what could have been had she been someone else, someone more free with her body. 24

In a Stranger’s Arms Bowing his head, he pressed his cheek against hers. “You smell nice.” His breath against her ear sent tingles tripping up her spine. She tried to ignore it. The last thing she wanted—or needed— right now was another man in her life. Determined that this little interlude would end with nothing more than a kiss goodnight, Callie knew he would be disappointed. Frustrated men didn’t call the next day. If they did, perhaps they deserved a second chance. The song ended all too soon and before she knew it, they were next to her table again. “May I join you?” Callie shrugged, trying to seem blasé, while her entire body screamed for her to say yes. “Sure, if you want.” She almost grimaced at her answer. If a man talked to her like that, she’d tell him where to stick it and leave him standing high and dry. It surprised her when Gunther merely smiled. “I’ll be right back.” Callie watched surreptitiously as he strode over to his table and spoke to the man who sat there alone. Of course, he’d want to get his drink. They weren’t cheap. After saying a few things to his friend, he left his drink and headed back her way. The man kept looking better all the time. Mandy, having found her blonde, led the guy back to the table and smirked at her. “Callie, this is Antony. We’re going to take a 25

Tianna Xander drive along the beach, if you don’t mind.” Callie shrugged. What could she do? Mandy was an adult. Besides, Callie was the one who drove them here so it wasn’t as though she wouldn’t have a ride home. And this was far from the first time that her friend left with a guy. “Go ahead, hon. Just, be safe.” She gave her best friend a meaningful look. Mandy smiled and tucked her arm into the crook of Antony’s elbow and smiled. “I will.” She gave Gunther a once over. “Why don’t you have some fun and excitement for a change?” Cheeks on fire, Callie took a sip of her diet cola. “I will.” Mandy smirked again and Callie attempted to figure out exactly what it was she missed about the conversation that had made it so damned funny. “I know you will,” she said with a wink before giving Antony’s arm a yank and leaving Callie to the wolves—or rather, the wolf. She glanced over at Gunther and shivered. What was it about the man that turned her on so much? It wasn’t his looks. Oh, he was handsome, exceedingly so. But she’d been out with handsome men before. Yet not one of them ever made her burn the way he did. The man positively oozed masculinity. Callie wouldn’t have been surprised to find that he sweat testosterone. There was no doubt in her mind that 26

In a Stranger’s Arms the man before her was just that, all man. **** “Penny for your thoughts, beautiful.” Gunther was completely floored by the fact that—no matter how hard he tried—he couldn’t see into the woman’s mind. Never, in the last six hundred years, had he met a mortal he couldn’t read—and she was mortal. There was no doubt of that. She blushed prettily at his question and it made him wonder where her thoughts led. “I was just thinking that it’s time I went home.” “Do you need a ride? I’d be happy to take you home.” “I’m sorry. I drove myself.” She reached into her purse for her keys. “Oh, no. She didn’t!” Standing so quickly her chair shot from behind her and tipped over, she pushed her way through the sea of people and headed toward the door at a near run. Gunther found her just outside, scowling at the parking lot. She looked up at him and stamped her foot. “She did take my car, dang it! Son of a—” She glanced over at him, her face red. It looked like she wanted to cry. “Is that ride still on the table?” He smiled, mentally thanking her friend for being so thoughtless. “Of course it is.” 27

Tianna Xander “Thank you. I guess I need to take you up on your offer. I usually don’t accept rides from strange men, though.” She cocked her head to the side and stared at him for a minute. “I guess you don’t look like a serial killer.” At least I hope you’re not a serial killer. He caught that thought before her mind closed to him again. Good. She was cautious. It meant the demon would have to either force his way into her home or trick her into letting him in. Either way, she wasn’t susceptible to one-night stands. The creature would have to take her by force. No matter which way the demon chose, it would buy him that much more time to come to her aid. Demons, being the lazy creatures they were, didn’t like to work—even for their kills. “Shall we go?” He pasted a practiced smile on his face. It was one he used often, to soothe victims he was forced to change after a demon fed upon them and infected them with their virus. Sighing, she gave him a nod. “Yes.” She looked around the bar as though she expected her friend to spring up from the floor at any moment. “I guess we should go.” Ditching the previous gratitude, Gunther felt a second or two of uncontrollable fury that her friend could be so loose, so thoughtless. Then he remembered she’d left with Keiran. He knew his friend, probably better than anyone. He was a 28

In a Stranger’s Arms lothario through and through. The cute Mandy had probably fallen prey to his charm. He’d bet that Keiran took her to the nearest motel. That’s precisely what he would have done a week ago. Not tonight, though. Tonight, his mind, his senses, his entire being, centered solely on Callie. He found it hard to keep his focus on anything but her. The press of her supple form against his while they danced nearly undid him. His entire body ached for her. Every molecule screamed for him to touch her, possess her. It didn’t help that he’d not gotten release the other night. The sexual part of his job wasn’t really necessary. But it helped. When a woman agreed to have sex with a stranger to save her life, you knew she was serious. The added benefit of easier mind control didn’t hurt, either. He wouldn’t sleep at all this night, if the raging hard-on he had were any indication. Gunther led her to his car, glad that he’d brought the sedan. He couldn’t imagine driving her home on his bike. The feel of her arms wrapped around him, her hands resting on his stomach, so close to his cock would have been torture. He stole a glance at her. Struck by her beauty, by the way she walked, talked, smiled and merely breathed. How would he ever find the strength to walk away from her this night? Would he be able 29

Tianna Xander to drop her at her door and leave her as though his sanity didn’t depend on sinking his hard length into her tight sheath? One kiss, one touch of her soft hands on his enflamed skin would drive him over the edge of sanity. Still, he led her to the car, opened the door and waited for her to seat herself. He swallowed thickly at the sight of her long legs as she settled into the seat and closed his eyes for a brief moment. He couldn’t dwell on her shapely calves and tucked-in waist. Tonight, that way led to madness. Gunther almost groaned when he slid into the seat next to her. Enveloped in her scent, his body hardened to the point of pain. If he didn’t leave her at her door soon, he would have her naked and beneath him before she was ready. If he made love to her before the demon found her, it would scent the hunter on her and leave her alone for weeks, perhaps months, before striking. He couldn’t have that. Resigned to waiting the demon out, he decided to get her home and get away from her as soon as possible. “Where to?” He rested his hand on the gearshift and looked at her as though he had no idea where she lived. “Fifty-five twenty West Arbor Road. Do you need directions?” “No. I have a friend who lives out that way.” It wasn’t a lie. She was his newest friend. 30

In a Stranger’s Arms Hands in her lap, she sat next to him, staring straight ahead, silent. It was almost as if he frightened her. There wasn’t much he could do to put her at ease. But, he could try. “Just so you know, I don’t make a habit of harming young women.” He put the car in drive and pulled through the spot in front of them. “I never thought you did.” “Little liar.” “I’m sorry. I’m just not in the habit of accepting rides from strangers.” “I was born Gunther William Andarton in Salzburg, Austria, where I lived until my mother’s death at the age of twelve. After her death, my father moved us to England.” He paused to take a breath, keeping his eyes on the road. “I am not now, nor have I ever been, married. I have never felt the desire, or a strong enough bond, for such a relationship.” Until now. It was all he could do to keep himself from slamming his foot onto the brake pedal. At that moment, he knew true fear for the first time in his life. He inhaled deeply, drawing her scent into his lungs and knew, for the first time in his long life, someone held the power to hurt him. And he didn’t like it. He almost pulled the car off onto the side of the road and told her to get out, that she’d be safer walking. But that wasn’t true. Somewhere out there, a monster lurked, stalking her, just 31

Tianna Xander waiting for the opportunity to strike. Her scent distracted him. Made him want to pull her kicking and screaming into his bizarre life. It tempted him to roll down the windows and let the warm air carry the smell of her away from him. But, he was a selfish bastard. He always had been. He wanted to keep her scent to himself. Her tantalizing scent teased him, caused his body to harden to the point of pain. The erection he’d sported since taking her into his arms felt like a steel rod between his legs. Even though it had been years since he’d talked to God, perhaps tonight, he would pray this would soon end so he could have relief. He needed to get away from Callie Obermeyer before she stole the one thing he could never give her. His heart.

32

In a Stranger’s Arms

Dibqufs!Uisff!

“J!

thought your accent sounded a bit like a combination of German and English. I was close.” She smiled, appearing a bit more relaxed. “I don’t have an accent.” She laughed and the sound made him harden even more. Holy shit, he had it bad. That damned demon better make his move and make it fast before this… thing he felt for Callie drove him completely mad. He’d like nothing better than to get this whole situation over with so he could leave this place and forget about Callie while sinking his massive hard-on into some other woman’s willing flesh. It was in the best interest of retaining his sanity that he knew he must get away from her—as far and as fast as he could. Pulling into her driveway, he parked and got out to walk her to her door. Like most modern women, she’d already opened her own door by the time he reached her. Still, hundreds of years of engrained chivalry had him holding out his hand, 33

Tianna Xander offering to assist her from the vehicle. “You didn’t have to do that, but thank you.” She placed her hand in his and he almost groaned at the contact. He bowed over her hand, his lips brushing against the back of her fingers. She shivered at the contact and he fought back a grin. Finally, she gives me a sign that she is moved by my presence as well. At least now, he knew she felt the attraction between them also. The whole business of not being able to read her thoughts, her feelings, frustrated the hell out of him. **** Callie shivered as his lips grazed her skin. Little tendrils of desire shot up her arm heading straight to her erogenous zones. Her nipples throbbed when he turned her hand over and his warm breath brushed the inside of her wrist. Heat pooled in her middle and her panties grew damp. She was caught between yanking her hand away and falling at his feet in a puddle of need. Thankfully, she did neither, as he helped her from the car and walked her to the door. She reached up over the door to pull her spare key down. It wasn’t there. “You shouldn’t keep a key outside your home. It is an invitation for burglars. Wear one around your neck or keep it in your pocket instead.” 34

In a Stranger’s Arms “I know,” she said with a shrug. “But I’ve lost my keys so many times, I keep one here just in case.” He gave her an unreadable look that made her uncomfortable. “It must get expensive to replace your locks so many times.” She looked at him blankly, trying to figure out why he should care. “I’ve never replaced the locks. Should I?” She frowned. “My key was gone. Someone is in my house.” Now that he mentioned having her lock replaced, it seemed like a good idea. She opened the door, wondering who had used her key. “Wait,” he said, when she would have entered the house. “You’ve lost your keys several times and never replaced your locks? Now you’re going to enter your home, knowing full well that your spare key is missing? Are you crazy, or just stupid?” “Just who do you think you are? You certainly have no business yelling at me like that!” she snapped, yanking her elbow from his grip. “Someone with more sense, obviously.” She glared at him. “And to think, I was just beginning to like you, too. You’re a first class jerk, Gunther Andarton. Thank you for the ride. I appreciate it. Now leave.” Sticking her nose in the air, she strode into her house. Slamming the door, she walked the five feet to her living room and 35

Tianna Xander screamed. Lying on her living room floor, naked, was her neighbor from across the street, Maria Martelli. Gunther burst through her door, not bothering with the knob. He merely knocked the door from its frame and ran to catch her as she fell. “You will not lose consciousness.” He breathed into her ear. She shivered. Her body’s cream wet her panties and she cursed her purely sexual reaction to him at a time like this. He lifted her, cradling her in his arms as he strode to the couch and placed her on the end farthest from her neighbor’s body. Callie covered her face with her trembling hands and willed herself not to retch at the sight of her closest neighbor staring up at her ceiling through lifeless eyes. She didn’t want confirmation that the so-called vampire murderer had killed the woman, but she couldn’t keep herself from looking at Maria’s upper thigh. Just as she suspected, the woman had two puncture wounds. Callie took a deep, shuddering breath and swiped at the tears coursing down her cheeks. She spared a glance at Gunther. He was on his phone, talking to someone in a low voice. “Of course we haven’t touched anything. Just get your asses over here.” He closed the phone, looked down at Maria and shook his head. “Such a waste.” He turned to Callie and made his way back to the couch and sat down next to her. “The 36

In a Stranger’s Arms police are on their way.” He brushed a lock of hair from her forehead and drew her under his arm when she began to shake. “Why? Why would someone do this to her?” She let him hold her. He drew her up into his lap and cradled her to him as she sobbed onto his shoulder. “She never hurt anyone. She was the nicest person I’ve ever known.” She turned and buried her face in the crook of his neck. “I can’t stand to see her like that.” She stayed in his lap, letting him hold her. For some reason she trusted him, even though she’d only known him for a few short hours. “They’re almost here, sweetheart.” He pressed a chaste kiss to her forehead. “She’ll be gone soon.” He stood, carrying her with him as he went to the door to bring the police into her home. “Hello, Officer Clarkson.” He turned to the plainclothes detective. “Bob.” Adjusting his hold on her, he thrust his hand out to the man who took it and shook his hand. “I broke down the door when I heard the lady scream. Any other sign of forced entry is from the killer. We haven’t touched anything but the front door and the far end of the couch.” He talked easily, even though he still held her in his arms. “Ms. Obermeyer was feeling a bit faint so we sat there to await your arrival.” He glanced at two other officers who walked in through the opened front door. “Would you mind 37

Tianna Xander checking out the lady’s bedroom so she can lie down for a few minutes?” At the detective’s nod, the two newcomers headed toward the back of the house. “This is how you found the woman?” The detective knelt near the body and examined the immediate area. “Yes. Callie, Ms. Obermeyer, had just closed the door when I heard her scream. Like I said, I broke the door down.” “No forced entry then?” Gunther shook his head. “Not that we could see. Callie kept an outdoor key. If the perpetrator knew her habits, he would have known where she kept her key. There would be no need for forced entry.” “I could have been here,” she whispered, shaking her head slowly. “I’d planned to stay home and do some work.” She shivered, glanced over at the body and squeezed her eyes closed. “Mandy talked me into going out tonight. I was supposed to be here when she brought my mail. Maria could have let him in. She would have come in to drop the mail. She knew where the key was hidden. She looked after me—” Her voice caught. “She did it so someone wouldn’t see my mail in the box and think I was gone for a few days and burgle my home.” She covered her mouth with her hands and sobbed into them. “I never should 38

In a Stranger’s Arms have gone out tonight.” Callie wriggled in his arms. “You can put me down, now. I feel better. At least I don’t think I’m going to faint.” Gunther lowered her to the floor as the detective took one gloved hand and examined the area around the puncture wounds on Maria’s leg. “I think I’m going to be sick.” She placed her hand over her stomach. “How could someone do that to her? Why would anyone do such a thing?” The detective glanced up at her after picking up a scrap of paper on the floor that lay next to the pile of Maria’s shredded clothing. “I’ve asked myself the same questions for years, ma’am. Every time I ask it, I’m no closer to finding out the answer.” He shifted his gaze back to the paper before glancing at Gunther. “It’s just like the others. One small piece of evidence, no other clues and I’ll bet you the woman was a paragon. No enemies, no one to want her dead. The only difference in this case is she wasn’t killed in her own home.” He shook his head. “Now that’s a puzzle.” “Detective Roberts? The back rooms are clean. No sign of forced entry, either.” “What else is new?” Bob muttered. “Take your friend to her bed and lay her down before she falls down.” Callie swayed between them, sick and feeling 39

Tianna Xander as though she just lost control of her life. Her stomach roiled when she glanced back down at Maria’s body. The way her friend looked would forever remain a stain on her memory. Her sparkling brown eyes were flat and lifeless. A blue ring surrounded the once full red lips she’d so proudly claimed were her best asset. Tears of grief began anew as Gunther scooped her up in his arms. “Where is your room?” “Take me to the first door on the left. It’s my spare room. I don’t think I’d be comfortable in my room, that far away from—from—” Listening to his instincts, Gunther quickly pressed his lips to hers. “Don’t,” he said after pulling away. “Don’t reprimand me for doing that and don’t blame yourself.” He deposited her on the bed, pressed another quick kiss to her forehead and then left the room. She glanced at the TV in the corner. The overhead light glared off the tube, her gaze wandered to the small dresser set between the two windows dressed with lemon yellow curtains. It looked so normal. Like nothing had happened and she wasn’t living a nightmare. Closing her eyes, she tried to erase the mental picture of finding Maria’s lifeless body. She tried to block out everything, attempting to hear what the men in the other room said to each other. A register shared between the two rooms helped the sound 40

In a Stranger’s Arms to travel rather well. “What do you think, Bob?” Gunther said, when he reentered the room. “What I think is that we have ourselves another vampire murder.” “No shit, dickhead. Of course, that’s what we have. Get your head out of your ass and tell me what you think about the woman not being in her own home.” “It’s hard to tell the workings of a sick mind, Gunther. Why do you ask? Have you got any ideas?” The detective must have moved closer to the register because she could hear him much clearer. “I know you noticed the signs of struggle. How could you miss it? Unlike the others, this woman wasn’t a willing participant in the act leading up to her demise.” “A child could see that. Get to the point, will you?” “Excuse me, sirs, but there are definite signs of a struggle in the kitchen.” “Bag and mark everything you find, Officer Hardy.” “Yes, sir.” The officer’s footsteps faded as he returned to the kitchen. “Back to our conversation,” Gunther said. He must have moved away from the register because his voice became a bit muffled. 41

Tianna Xander “What the hell were we talking about?” “I think whoever killed this woman was after Callie.” Callie clapped her hands over her mouth to stifle her gasp at Gunther’s statement. “I don’t agree, Andarton. There is no reason to believe our killer has any specific motivation. He likes to kill people, period.” “He’ll be back when he figures out he didn’t get the right woman.” “I disagree,” the detective said. “Excuse me. The coroner has arrived and I need to talk to the dispatcher. The annoying bitch has been yammering at me for the last five minutes.” The room became silent as a tomb when the detective’s footsteps faded to oblivion. Callie lurched to her feet, ran to the adjoining bathroom and vomited up her dinner. When Gunther found her, she was still bent over the toilet, retching. He pulled her hair back from her face, held her by the waist to help support her and whispered soothing nonsense in her ear. Of course everything wouldn’t be all right. There was someone out there who wanted her dead. “You heard us?” She nodded, unable and unwilling to lie to him about what she’d heard. She needed to talk about it. “I knew there was something you wanted to tell him and wouldn’t while I was there. I wanted— needed—to know what it was.” 42

In a Stranger’s Arms “Now you wish you hadn’t heard it, I’d wager.” “And you’d win,” she said with a nod as she moved to the sink and pulled a toothbrush from its box. She squeezed a liberal amount of paste onto the bristles and scrubbed vigorously at her teeth and tongue. Callie had barely finished rinsing her mouth when she began to shake. “I—I think I’m—I’m—” She was going into shock and she knew it. Gunther grabbed her by the shoulders when her teeth began to chatter. “You can slap me tomorrow when you feel better if this doesn’t work. If it does work, I want a rain check.” With those words, he pressed another kiss to her lips. Only this one wasn’t a brief brush of their mouths. He dragged her closer, pinning her against his hard length. His mouth pressed against her, dominating as it swept her away on a wave of pure feeling. Callie wrapped her arms around his neck, unconsciously clinging to him. Her heart slammed erratically in her chest. She arched toward him as he cupped her breast and brushed her already hard nipple with his thumb. Mewling with her desire, she moved against him restlessly. Her breasts ached, her nipples pebbling against his palms as he cupped their weight in his hands. Again, his thumbs brushed her nipples, sending 43

Tianna Xander waves of heat spiraling through her body, straight to her womb. You are mine. The words startled Callie back to her senses and she found the strength to pull away. The voice in her mind sounded so much like Gunther’s, yet his lips and mouth had been way too busy for words. He watched her through hooded eyes, his breath uneven. She felt her blush creep up her cheeks and covered her mouth with her hand. He stared at her through those unreadable black eyes and she berated herself for being so loose, so susceptible to him, with one of her best friends lying naked and lifeless in the next room. What must he think of her? Callie jumped when someone cleared their throat behind her. The detective walked into the room. “I hope I’m not interrupting anything.” He picked a book off one of the shelves near the door and read the spine. “We’re going to need a few days to inspect the house, ma’am. There are too many opportunities to learn about our suspect here. This is the first place that shows any sign of a struggle. We can’t afford to miss anything.” He set the book down and leaned against the wall, his hand stuck in his pockets. “Do you have anywhere to go?” 44

In a Stranger’s Arms “She can stay with me,” Gunther said, stepping forward. “I’ll take her to my place. She’ll be safe there.” “No.” Callie shook her head. “Get serious, Gunther. I don’t even know you. Not really. And I certainly don’t know you well enough to spend the night with you, let alone a few days.” He gave her a half smile. “I do have a spare bedroom. You wouldn’t necessarily be spending the night with me.” The words ‘in my bed,’ hung silently between them. She shrugged. “You know what I mean. I have no idea who you are, not really. I’m not going home with you.” She turned back to the police officer. “I’ll go to the Marquis downtown.” Gunther straightened. “You can’t go there. That place is a dump.” The detective grinned. “Sounds like she’s got things all worked out, Andarton.” “Not if I can help it.” “You can’t.” She crossed her arms over her breasts. “I’m not staying with you. I’ll stay in my car first.” He sighed. “It’s not like I have any choice. I can’t tell you where to stay. But, if I could make a suggestion?” “Go ahead.” She raised her brow, keeping her arms over her chest to cover her hard nipples. Why the man had such an effect on her, she’d 45

Tianna Xander never know. “I’ll listen.” “Would you consider staying at the Sterling Arms? It’s in a much better neighborhood.” She was already shaking her head before he could finish. “I can’t afford it. That place is way out of my budget.” “I know the owner. I’ll get you a major discount, if not a free room.” “You can do that?” She stared at him incredulous. “I can do a lot of things you may find amazing.” Callie snorted. “I’m sure you can.” “Let me call him and get your room booked.” She stared at him for a minute, biting her lip. “I don’t know. That’s a huge favor to ask him. He doesn’t even know me and I’m sure he’s got people he could rent the room to…” Besides, what would she do with herself in such an expensive hotel? She would feel so out of place. She wouldn’t look like she belonged in a place like that in her best set of clothes. “I don’t think—” Gunther grabbed her by the shoulders. “Don’t think. Just pack your things and I’ll book you a room.”

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Dibqufs!Gpvs!

H!

unther watched her leave the room, a dazed expression on her face. With a smile, he flipped open his cell phone, pressed three on the speed dial and put the phone to his ear. “Sterling Arms, how may I assist you?” A sultry female voice crooned after three rings. Any other time, a voice like that would have made him want to get to know the woman on the other end of the line. Not tonight. His body still ached for Callie. “Put me through to Derek Devlin’s office, please.” The woman suddenly became very professional and decidedly cool. “May I ask who is calling, sir? Mr. Devlin is a very busy man.” Since when did Derek screen his calls through a secretary? Gunther balled his hand into a fist. Perhaps it was good that he called. He needed to see to this. “Gunther Andarton,” he said scowling. “Put me through immediately.” He glared through the 47

Tianna Xander window, into the darkness. What the hell was going on over there, anyway? Obviously, it was time he paid them a visit. The temporary silence on the other end was satisfying, if a bit annoying. “Yes, sir, Mr. Andarton,” she stuttered and immediately transferred the call. “Devlin,” his second in command and longtime friend said as he picked up the phone. “Hello, Derek.” Gunther was pleased to find that he didn’t have to go through another receptionist turned bodyguard. “I need the penthouse and corner room for tonight. Make sure they’re free.” He knew the penthouse would be empty. At least it better be. It was reserved solely for him and any family member he saw fit to ensconce in its seemingly endless luxury. The corner room, adjacent and connecting through the penthouse elevator, could be reserved though. “The corner room is taken for the night.” “Then cut the water to the room, move them to another suite and give them a free night or two. I need it.” “Yes, Boss.” Gunther closed the phone and smiled. If she wouldn’t go to his home, she would go to his second home. Either way, he would have her close. Even so, he wasn’t sure it was a good idea to keep her near. The longer he stayed near her the 48

In a Stranger’s Arms more he wanted to turn her without the help of the demon. If he did so, she would be much stronger. Perhaps she would have the strength to fight the creature off more easily. It was worth some serious thought. Callie returned with a small suitcase and an overnight bag. “Did you make the reservation?” she asked and smiled at his nod. “I guess I’m as ready as I’ll ever be.” She walked to the door. Setting the bags next to the broken wood frame, she cocked her head and frowned. “You will secure this for me, won’t you?” “Of course we will, ma’am,” Bob rubbed his chin. “No doubt there will be a few officers stationed outside to keep an eye on the place too.” She nodded, took one last look around and bent to retrieve her bags. Gunther was there before she could wrap her fingers around the handles. “I’ll take those. There is no need for you to carry them.” She smiled, turned to leave, and then stopped. “What about Mandy? She’ll get here with my car and not know what happened. The police line will freak her out.” She gestured toward the bright yellow tape the officers liberally strung over the porch rails and turned to Gunther. “What should I do?” “Leave her a message with the officers. They’ll see that she gets it,” Bob said, stepping outside to 49

Tianna Xander light a cigarette. “You don’t mind if I smoke on your porch, do you ma’am?” She shook her head. “No, but I don’t like it in the house. No one has ever smoked in my house. Not that I know of, anyway. I’d rather it didn’t start now.” “Of course,” he said, taking a long pull. “I wouldn’t dream of smoking in your home.” He bowed his head. “Just common courtesy.” Gunther led her to his sedan for the second time in less than three hours and wondered if there was a reason he’d heard the banshee’s scream that first time. Anyone could have heard it. Any one of his people could have answered the call, yet it was him. And Callie could be the mate of any one of countless hunters. Yet, she belonged to him. Was it luck or fate? **** Callie gaped at the room when the elevator doors slid open. She knew he’d said he was a friend of the owner but she’d never expected something like this. Her gaze traveled the room with awe as he strode through and opened a door o the far side of the suite. The bedroom was just as big as the first room and Callie became suspicious. She turned on him, crossing her arms over her chest. “I won’t share this suite with you. I don’t care 50

In a Stranger’s Arms how big it is.” He gestured toward the elevator. “I have my own room, Callie—on the other side of this elevator, as a matter of fact.” “Excuse me?” she asked, following him with her gaze as he headed to the back of the elevator and inserted a card that she didn’t remember him picking up from the front desk. “Hey. I don’t remember you picking up that key. Is this where you live?” She gave him a narrow eyed look. “I’d better not find out you keep these rooms here all the time.” What was she saying? It would cost a fortune—and not a small one—to keep rooms in a hotel like this. He smiled and gave her a non-answer. “How much money do you think I have?” He turned and entered the spacious penthouse. Following, her mouth fell open with shock. “This place must cost enough to run a small country, for one night.” She wandered through the room, her hands lightly stroking the glossy, mahogany surface of each of the polished tables. He slid the key-card back in his pocket and smiled. “Perhaps. But I am assured these rooms are ours for as long as we need them.” She shook her head slowly. “No. I—I can’t stay here after tonight. It’s too much.” She backed away from him. He stepped closer, took her by the shoulders 51

Tianna Xander and shook her lightly. “You will not go to some cheap motel where I cannot keep you safe. I won’t allow it.” She laughed and pulled away from him. “You have no right to say that. I am my own woman. What I do is my business and my business alone.” Sobering, she stepped back when he advanced on her, his fist clenched. “Like hell I don’t,” he growled. Feeling a bravado she wasn’t sure she could keep, she reached up and poked him in the chest. “You don’t scare me. And furthermore, what the hell do you think gives you the right to try to boss me around? I don’t even know you.” “This!” he snarled and pulled her close. “This is what gives me the right.” Burying his fingers in her hair, he tilted her head back and punished her with a kiss. The press of his lips on hers, the rasp of his tongue invading her mouth, drove every thought of escape from her mind. It allowed her to forget she didn’t know this man—that she was here, under his protection, to preserve her life. Liquid heat pooled in her middle, settling low in her pelvis and, for one blessed minute, she forgot the memory of Maria’s lifeless body lying naked and cold on her living room floor. It was the last that made her decide that she would go anywhere with this man. She would do anything he said as long 52

In a Stranger’s Arms as he kept the memories, and the monsters, at bay. With a certain boldness she hadn’t known she possessed, she reached up, thrust her fingers through his ebony hair and pulled him closer. She willed him to touch her, take her to a place she knew only he could. When she’d changed her mind about him—how she’d changed her — mind didn’t matter. She wanted nothing more than to feel his naked body pressed against hers—feel his long hardness thrusting into her depths, touching her womb. **** It only took one precious moment for Gunther to wonder exactly which one of them was being punished as he slid his lips over hers. His body hardened, tensed with suppressed need as he held her to him. The ever-present need for her became a constant ache. An ache he was sure would soon drive him mad if he didn’t bury himself inside her soon and find relief. Their tongues dueled merrily for a moment before his enticed hers to follow and explore his mouth with the soft, wet velvet of her tongue. He groaned deep in his chest, to Hell with the demon, to Hell with his good intentions. He would make love with her this night and every night until the demon grew tired of waiting for his 53

Tianna Xander prey—until the demon grew tired of waiting for his scent to wear off her—or not. In that time, if he could convince her to let him change her, all the better. She pulled away before he could take her in his arms and carry her to the bedroom. “I can’t…I can’t do this. I don’t know you.” “You know me well enough.” He pressed another drugging kiss to her lips, shamelessly using everything he knew, every power, every bit of experience, until she swayed before him with both desire and uncertainty. Dragging her closer, he ravaged her mouth with his, pulling her body to him until he couldn’t tell where she left off and he began. Little moans of pleasure escaped her throat and he captured them in his mouth. Guilt swamped him over what he’d thought of doing. He couldn’t—wouldn’t— allow her to fall into a demon’s hands. He pulled back before he lost control and turned her regardless. He rested his forehead on hers and took a deep breath. How could he let her go back to her room, knowing full well that sooner or later a demon would attack and try to take her from him? “Go back to your room, Callie. Go back to your room and call Mandy. Let her know you’re all right.” She looked up at him. Confusion marred her face with a frown as she nodded. The sting of 54

In a Stranger’s Arms rejection welled in her eyes and it was all he could do to let her go and watch her walk from the room. The elevator closed behind her and he stood rigid, his body aching as he stared at the door where he’d last seen her. How long would it take before the demon grew tired of waiting? He hoped, prayed, it was soon or he would surely go mad. **** After persuading her to stay at the hotel, several days passed. Then there were the nights that followed where he almost gave into the need to have her, to sink his hard length into her slick flesh as she screamed her pleasure beneath him. The waiting nearly drove him mad. How long before he lost control and took her regardless? She was his mate. It was his right. He slammed his glass down. Even the bagged blood he kept could not satisfy his hunger. He grew weaker every day that he hungered for the taste of Callie’s blood. At least his body responded to the rare steaks he’d been eating with her. But, he’d grown weaker and that was unacceptable. If the demon didn’t make his move soon, he would have to make Callie his. He would have no choice; it was her blood he craved—her life force that would sustain him from now on. If she refused, he 55

Tianna Xander would soon perish. The demons would soon discover that he’d weakened and attack him in force. Perhaps it was time he laid a trap. Only Callie would be none the wiser. The demon would approach her, possibly even attempt to take her. But, Gunther knew he would be there to stop the demon from killing her, and he knew she would never willingly leave with a stranger as long as she waited for him. Her stubbornness would give him plenty of time to find her if the demon chose to make his move. Standing, he moved to the elevator, needing to see her, to touch her, but she was dressing for their dinner date. She wouldn’t welcome him in her room now. He turned to walk back to his glass and stopped. A noise from her room rooted his feet to the spot. Was that a whimper or a moan? He turned, placed a hand on the cool metal and strained to hear through the door. It opened with a muffled ding and there she was, standing before him, fighting with the tie on the back of her dress. She stood before him, holding the top of her dress up with her hands, a frustrated grimace on her face. “Help me with this, will you? I can’t seem to get it.” She turned, exposing the back of her neck. His fingers brushed the bare skin of her shoulders as he tied the straps of the dress. 56

In a Stranger’s Arms The silk slid through his fingers. No wonder she had such a hard time with it. After a few tries, he made the ties. Eyeing them, he made sure they looked at least halfway decent. He loved the dress. It bared her shapely shoulders to his gaze. The gentle curve of her neck tempted him. Even now he hungered, craved her essence. Turning she smiled up at him, kissed him on the cheek and stepped away. His body hardened to the point of pain. His cock pulsed with the need to slide into her slick sheath. He wanted nothing more than to claim her, thrust his hard length deep into her and make her his. Taking a deep breath, he gathered control of his libido and found the strength to step away from her before he swept her from her feet and carried her to his bed. “Are you ready to go now?” She nodded. “Yes, I’m sorry I made us late. I hope we haven’t lost the reservations.” **** Callie looked up at him, stunned. The man was so handsome she could barely speak. She looked down at herself after seeing him in his expensive black suit. Her simple blue silk dress seemed so cheap, so second-rate. She looked like a bag lady next to him, in his expensive silk suit. “You look beautiful.” 57

Tianna Xander He leaned down and pressed a quick kiss to her lips. Callie resisted the urge to cover them with her fingertips, as if to hold his warmth to her mouth. Shivers of delight danced up her spine, her body warmed where he touched her and she wanted nothing more than to throw herself in his arms. Instead, she glanced up at him then smiled. He always knew what to say. She loved that about him. Sometimes, she thought he could actually read her mind and how ridiculous was that? “Let’s go.” He put his arm around her and led her to the elevator. The ride down made her a bit queasy. She frowned, placing her hand over her belly. “I—” She swallowed the bile rising to her throat. “I don’t feel so well.” Gunther turned toward her, reached out and grabbed her arm. His gaze grew sharp. His nostrils flared, like a hunter who scented prey. “Tell me what you feel. Exactly what you feel,” he said, squeezing her arm almost painfully. He must have noticed her wince because his hold loosened just a bit. “Please, Callie, it’s important.” She rolled her eyes, impatient but underneath all that, she could sense his very real concern so she gave in to his demands. Besides, she felt better with his hands on her flesh. It was almost as if just his touch alone had eased the horrible feelings assaulting her. “It almost feels like I’m being 58

In a Stranger’s Arms suffocated, buried alive. Not by dirt or rock, but by evil instead.” She snorted. “And how crazy does that sound?” she asked, turning away so he wouldn’t see the confusion and fear in her eyes. “Believe me, baby. It doesn’t sound crazy at all.” He looked up at the service entrance over their heads. His lips thinned and she thought that for just a second his eyes glinted with malice as he considered the rooftop exit. Never in her life had she ever thought to be in an elevator with a man who would consider using one of those for any reason. Still, it didn’t stop the little quiver of pleasure she felt at his endearment. She looked around the inside of the elevator, glad that she wasn’t alone. The metal enclosure, which had seemed so safe only days before, suddenly felt like a trap. It came to a sudden, screeching halt and she heard someone scream. Callie clamped her trembling hand over her mouth. Was that really her? Had she just shrieked in terror as though the seven hounds of hell were nipping at her heels? Leaning against the wall, she grabbed at the rail that surrounded the small enclosure and prayed for the courage to remain on her feet—with her mouth closed. A loud thump on the roof of the car sent her cowering behind Gunther like some shrinking violet in a Victorian novel. What was she, a woman or a frightened mouse, cowering in the 59

Tianna Xander corner, just waiting for the cat to pounce? It took her a while to realize she’d latched on to Gunther’s waist with a death grip. He looked down at her hands, patted one and smiled. Her face burned and she quickly pulled her hands away. Gunther gently kissed her brow and rested his hand on her head. “Stay behind me. I can handle this.” She certainly hoped so. She twisted her hands together to keep them from creeping back to the man’s waist. What must he think of her, throwing her arms around him like that? As soon as the overhead door opened, a wave of nausea gripped her. She held her hand over her mouth, forcing herself to breathe through her nose. She lowered her head, curling herself into the smallest possible target. This was what they had been waiting for. The murderer, tired of waiting to find her alone, must have finally decided to make his move. She only hoped that Gunther didn’t get himself killed trying to protect her. The sound of a large body dropping into the confined space with them had her looking up. She nearly screamed again when she stared directly into the eyes of an incredibly handsome man. Then, right before her eyes, he changed into some thing, some creature, that couldn’t possibly exist. 60

In a Stranger’s Arms You can’t be looking into glowing orange eyes. It’s impossible. Her whole body began to shake as her life, as she knew it, turned upside down. This can’t be happening. This can’t be happening. She chanted the words in her mind as if just by saying them it would make it true. But, the demonic looking creature didn’t go away. It didn’t disappear as she’d so fervently hoped. It stood in the opposite corner, glaring at her. It raised a thin, bony finger and pointed it at her. Its razor-sharp nails, that looked more like talons, were brown. Some still dripped with fresh blood from his latest kill. She squeezed her eyes closed, tasting bile. The acid burned the back of her throat. Gunther planted himself in front of her, refusing to let the creature close. She fisted her hands, needing to touch him, to tell him not to sacrifice himself for her. When had she come to care about him? When had she allowed him into her heart? She couldn’t let him endanger himself for her. She could never live with herself if that thing killed him. After all, it was she the thing was after. She didn’t want to see Gunther die trying to protect her. Somehow, as impossible as it seemed, she’d started to care about him over the last several days. She bit her lip as she placed her hands on Gunther’s hips, needing to touch him for a moment, now that she realized what he’d come 61

Tianna Xander to mean to her. She knew it was impossible to care for him so quickly, even more so for him to feel the same way. Still, she couldn’t allow him to put himself in danger for her. After clutching his waist one last time, she released him, grabbed the handrail and pulled herself up. How she’d managed to find the strength to stand, and face the monster, she’d never know. Her legs shook and her knees knocked together. It was almost as though only her will alone kept her standing. Well, that and the wall behind her. “It’s me he wants, Gunther.” She put a restraining hand on his arm. “I don’t want you to get hurt. I—I’ll go with him.” Her breaths came in short pants as she started to hyperventilate, knowing she was about to die for a man she’d never even told she loved. Fear crawled through her as she contemplated sacrificing herself for him. With the oily evil she felt before and the fear moving through her in waves, she barely managed to retain her consciousness. That’s it, Callie. Come to me. You know your life belongs to me now. The insidious whispers assailed her mind. The creature knew who she was! He knew where she lived. There was no way she could ever escape him—no way she could ever live a normal life after this. There was no way she 62

In a Stranger’s Arms would ever be able to pursue any type of relationship—even with Gunther. Tears burned her eyes as she realized that she had finally found one man she could trust enough to have a relationship with after Joey and she couldn’t. She couldn’t bring herself to endanger him like that. It would be best if she just gave herself over to the demon, or whatever he was, and let him drain the life from her as he had so many others. She took a shuffling step forward, ready to sacrifice herself for Gunther. “No!” Gunther grabbed her arm and dragged her behind him. “You will not go. He’s using a compulsion on you. Stay here, by my side, where I can protect you from him.” While Callie attempted to pull away, distracting Gunther, the demon took the opportunity to fling some sort of bright light in his direction, hitting him squarely in the chest. Caught off guard, Gunther took the full blast and doubled over, loosening his grip on her arm. The demon tilted his head and stared directly at Callie. He cannot save you. He intends to sacrifice himself for you. To die in your stead and in the end I will come for you anyway. Do you wish to watch him die? Callie shook her head. Gathering her strength, she shoved at Gunther who still hadn’t recovered from the blast the demon sent his way and ran 63

Tianna Xander toward the creature that threatened his life. Turning, she looked at Gunther with sad eyes and cried, “Forgive me; I can’t let him kill you.” A scream bubbled from her throat as the creature grabbed her from behind and launched them into the air. A loud wailing assaulted her ears as the demon leaped to the closed doors of an upper floor. With little more than the swipe of an arm, the doors flew open and he thrust her into the empty corridor. A split second later, he fell upon her. she fought him but he was the stronger. He ripped her dress to shreds as strong hands drew her thighs apart. “Finally, the darkness wins,” he said just before he sank his elongated teeth into her femoral artery. Callie opened her mouth to scream, but no noise escaped. She watched with terror filled eyes as the creature sucked the blood from her body and an incredible lethargy overcame her. It was funny how her last thoughts would be that he’d ruined her favorite dress and that even though she would die, she knew the satisfaction that Gunther would kill the man before he was through with her. The last thing she remembered before losing consciousness was Gunther’s handsome face as he stood over her, a look of grim determination on his face. She wanted nothing more than to raise her hand and wipe the frown from his handsome 64

In a Stranger’s Arms features but couldn’t seem to find the strength. “Live or die,” he said, staring into her eyes. “Live.”

65

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Dibqufs!Gjwf!

H!

unther took great satisfaction in killing the murderous being and sending him back where he came from. Since the creature’s semi-human form had been destroyed, he couldn’t come back to Earth. He’d failed his master and would be punished. Normally, a demon lord would punish a demon for centuries before allowing them another human form. And, since a demon must have substance to visit the human realm, Callie’s troubles were over. With a wave of his hand, the demon’s broken, grotesque body blinked out of existence. Turning, he stared down at Callie, his heart in his throat. Deep red lashes rested on her cheeks, perfect crescents beneath her closed eyes. Her skin was so pale it was nearly translucent. Thin blue veins showed beneath her ashen skin. His eyes burned as he stared down at her. He clenched his fists as pain ripped at his soul. Why had she put herself in danger like that? She’d run right for the 66

In a Stranger’s Arms demon, putting herself between them, as though she wanted him to end her life. Yet, she’d chosen to live. He picked her up and ran to the service elevator. Using the penthouse key, he let himself into his room and carried her to the bed. Her head lolled to the side and, for a moment, terror gripped his heart, squeezing with a merciless hand. What if he’d been too late? He’d wanted to save her in the corridor but knew it was unacceptable. Anyone could have come along and seen them. They would have assumed he was the serial killer stalking their streets and he would have wasted precious time convincing them otherwise. He was not one of the demons who took such delight in terrorizing the general populace. He was what some would consider a vampire—one of the few hunters who did their best to stop the demons preying on human kind. Gunther concentrated on her heart. One beat, a skip, another beat. She still lived but not for long. Pulling her into his arms, he buried his face in the crook of her neck. Her scent calmed him even as her stuttering heart and her pallor terrified him to his soul. Wasting no more time, he buried his teeth in her neck, pulling the rest of her demon-tainted blood from her body. It sickened him that she got ever weaker while he got stronger with the 67

Tianna Xander infusion of her blood. He drew every ounce of life giving fluid from her, watching as she died in his arms. Tears streamed down his face while he waited for his blood to change hers before he again sank his teeth into her cooling flesh. Callie warmed in his embrace as he returned her blood to her. He even gave her some of his own. His precious life’s blood that only she could replace flowed between them, making her stronger. Before he became too weak, he carried her to her room then finished the transfer. Like the others, she would remember nothing. She would live happily without sex for the rest of her life. He was her bound mate and the blood he’d left himself with was too little to sustain him for much longer. A week, perhaps two and he would perish. Using a strong compulsion so she would remember, he told her how things would be. It was his last gift to her. “You are so beautiful, Callie. You have brought so much love and laughter into my life. The thing that attacked you tonight was no man, but a demon. He infected you with a virus that would have brought on a very slow, painful death for you. I have given you my blood, enough that you will survive. By doing so, it has changed you. You will not age as quickly as you may have and you will always be in good health. In giving you this gift, I have used too much of my own blood and, without an infusion, 68

In a Stranger’s Arms condemned myself to death. I can no longer sustain myself with the blood of others, only your blood will sustain me now.” He chuckled mirthlessly. “And now, because of my carelessness, you have precious little to give.” He drew his finger down the length of her arm. Her unconscious body gave an involuntary shudder. “Know that I love you more than life. Never doubt that. I will go now. I do not wish to pressure you into making your life with me. If you should decide to come to me, Keiran will know where to find me. I will not think less of you if you think me a monster and choose a life away from me. I merely attempt to return the choice the demon so callously stole from you. Have a care with your life, my love. It is precious. And live it to the fullest.” He brushed a copper lock from her head and smiled wanly. It was worth it. Though he’d never known the touch of her gentle hands upon his flesh, though they would never consummate their bond, he knew her life was well worth his sacrifice. Gunther left her to her sleep. He too needed his rest. He needed to put his affairs in order before he succumbed to the endless slumber if she chose to live away from him. He turned, gave Callie one last, long look and prepared himself to close the door on that part of his life. She would want for 69

Tianna Xander nothing. He would see to that. **** Callie woke to the incessant buzz of an alarm clock. She reached over to slap the off button on the clock next to her bed and realized the sound came from somewhere below her room. “What..?” she pulled her pillow over her head and tried to go back to sleep. When she closed her eyes, memories assailed her. Someone threatened Gunther. She threw herself between them. The creature grabbed her and flew with her up through the service hatch of the elevator and into an empty corridor. It was the Vampire murderer; only it wasn’t human. It couldn’t have been human. She watched with growing horror as its teeth elongated and he bit her on her upper thigh. Then Gunther had come and saved her. He told her beautiful things, that he loved her. Then he’d said he was dying… “Man, what a nightmare.” She threw the blankets off her, stood and padded to the bathroom. It was during her shower that she discovered it hadn’t been a dream after all. Two puncture wounds graced the crease of her thigh. She rushed out to look in the mirror, two more wounds, fading but still visible, were just above her jugular. She covered the two on her throat and 70

In a Stranger’s Arms warmth settled in her middle. It hadn’t been a dream. She’d been attacked by two vampires in one night and was lucky to live to tell the tale. She giggled a bit hysterically. Only who would believe her? She counted herself lucky that Gunther hadn’t drained her of her life. She ran to the bedroom and started throwing her things into her suitcase. She’d been lucky to escape death last night. She needed to get out of here before he returned to finish the job. With her bags packed, she gave one last look at the room. Only one thing bothered her. Gunther had had a few weeks to kill her. Why didn’t he? She shrugged. She’d figure that out later. Right now she needed to find a place to stay—a place where she wouldn’t be alone—where she could think about why the thought of losing Gunther frightened her more than seeing him again? He’d told her something important. Something she’d forgotten. Why couldn’t she remember? **** Gunther watched her from afar. Having put his affairs in order, he stood watch outside Mandy’s home as they went about their normal lives. He grew weaker every day. Even the rare steaks he’d taken to eating three times a day did him little good anymore. His mouth watered as he caught 71

Tianna Xander scent of Callie on the soft breeze. Only her blood would help him now. Keeping himself hidden in the house across the street, he watched her, making sure no other demons made an attempt on her life. Satisfied that he’d completed his final assignment, it freed him to rest. To spend the last of his days watching the woman he loved live the life he’d gifted her with. He had no regrets. He’d promised himself he wouldn’t interfere with her choices. The decision to come to him had to be her own, otherwise she would never know if he’d compelled her to come to him. As much as he wanted to go to her, take her in his arms and never let her go, he knew he had to give her the choice. Only Keiran knew where he was. His closest friend knew how to reach him. He’d only told him after he’d sworn him to secrecy. Keiran was not to tell Callie where he could be found unless she specifically asked for him. And she hadn’t. After two weeks, she hadn’t asked about him once. He’d been nothing to her more than a protective agent doing his job. The heated kisses had obviously meant less to her than he’d hoped. He watched as they exited Mandy’s home and walked to her car. Mandy talked, smiling and laughing as usual, but Callie never smiled anymore. It was as though she’d lost her zest for life. Her eyes seemed dull, even from across the 72

In a Stranger’s Arms street. Still he couldn’t approach her. He couldn’t be near her without wanting to make love with her, without wanting to sink his teeth into her supple neck and draw the life giving nectar from her veins. It took every ounce of his strength to keep himself from rushing from the house and yanking her into his arms. He shook with the need to just hold her, comfort her, and tell her everything would be okay. But, he couldn’t do that. Things wouldn’t be okay. Things would never be okay again.

73

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Dibqufs!Tjy!

D!

allie stopped outside Mandy’s car and looked around. The hair on the back of her neck prickled. It felt as though she were being watched. Again. She turned around, cautious. She saw nothing but the endless row of houses down the street. She almost laughed at herself. What had she expected to see? There were no more monsters in the world. There couldn’t be. She would go mad if she allowed herself to believe there were more of those creatures in the world. She only wished she could shrug that last night with Gunther off as a bad dream. Well, except maybe the part where he’d said he loved her and told her what he was. But, she’d been nearly unconscious. What if it all had been nothing but her overactive imagination? The letter he’d sent her told her where he’d gone. He was on another assignment. Since the murderer was dead, there was no reason for him to stay with her. She held back a sob at that. There 74

In a Stranger’s Arms was no reason for him to stay. She’d grown to love him over the few short days they’d spent together. But, to him, she was nothing more than another mission. What she couldn’t understand was how a man could hold her the way he did, kiss her the way he did and still walk away? She suppressed another sob, refusing to cry over him anymore. She had to get over him and she knew the only way to do it would be to see him again. To prove to her he was a man and not the creature he’d told her he was. Still, if he were that creature, would she still love him? Could she still stand before him and tell him she didn’t want a life without him? “Will you take me to see Keiran?” she asked as she settled into the seat next to Mandy. The couple had become nearly inseparable since the night they’d met. “Sure.” She looked over at Callie with a frown. “Are you finally going to ask where to find that creep so you can give him a piece of your mind?” Callie nodded. “I’ll never get over him if I don’t see him again. I know it’s stupid. I have these horrible nightmares about the man being some sort of monster. Yet I know he isn’t.” “What kind of monster?” Callie made a face. “A vampire.” She knew he couldn’t be that. She’d come face to face with one and it nearly killed her. Gunther had saved her from it somehow. If he was a vampire, it was 75

Tianna Xander certainly a different type than the one who had tried to drain her dry. She would trust her life, her children’s lives with Gunther. She looked out the window, watching the passing scenery. “What if he is a vampire?” Mandy asked her eyes on the road. She turned a corner, ran over the curb and Callie reached for the armrest, glad she’d taken the time to put her seatbelt on. “Then he isn’t the type of vampire from the legends and—” she paused, her gaze darting around the inside of the car. “I love him. And, I can’t believe he just left me like that. I can’t go on like this. I have to see him, to prove to myself that he’s okay. He told me he was dying. At least I think he did. I could have imagined it all. I wasn’t quite conscious through the whole ordeal. I need to tell him I love him, tell him what a jerk he is for leaving me like that. Most of all, I need to know he’s okay. Vampire or not.” They drove to the bar where they’d met the two men and Callie cast a suspicious glance at Mandy who’d had a big grin on her face ever since she’d confessed to being in love with Gunther. “Gunther isn’t here, is he? I’ve been set up, haven’t I?” Mandy shook her head. “Nope. This is where Keiran promised to meet me. I was supposed to drop you at your house so you could pack a few 76

In a Stranger’s Arms things, meet him here, and then we’d both go pick you up.” She shrugged. “But since you wanted to talk to him…” “Oh, okay.” Callie wasn’t sure why she was disappointed, though she was a bit concerned that Mandy had been scheming behind her back. Still, she should be glad she wouldn’t have to face Gunther right now. It was going to take a lot of courage to face him and tell him she loved him no matter what. She needed these few minutes to pull herself together. Every time she thought of him, it was as though someone ripped her heart from her chest. Every time she pictured him in her mind, she wanted to reach out to him, grab him and hold on tight. It was almost as though he was a part of her. They entered the darkened interior of the bar. The same bar where she’d met Gunther. Memories washed over her. Warmth surrounded her. She almost felt his arms surround her, holding her up against his hard muscled frame. Breaking the illusion, Mandy grabbed her arm and pulled her over to the table where Keiran sat nursing a soda. “She wants to know where he is, Keiran.” Mandy plopped down on the chair next to him and gave him a long kiss before she smiled at him. “Hi. I missed you.” Keiran gave her hand a squeeze before he scowled at Callie. “It’s about damned time you 77

Tianna Xander came to your senses. He’s—” Mandy leaned over and kissed him again. “She wants to see him, Keiran, no matter what. Why don’t we let them work out their problems on their own?” He gave a sharp nod. “What can it hurt?” Standing, he led them back outside. “He’s never stopped protecting you,” he said, turning to Callie. “He’s staying in the house across the street from Mandy’s place. He won’t sleep. He can’t eat. Not what he’s supposed to eat, anyway. He’s wasting away to nothing. He’s so certain you can’t accept him for what he is, he’s decided to die protecting you.” Callie’s eyes widened. She didn’t want that. She’d never wanted that. “Why would he do that? Why would he just sacrifice himself for me like that?” Keiran snorted. “He’s being selfless. You haven’t figured that out yet? He loves you enough to die for you.” He opened his trunk, flipped the lid off a cooler and handed her two bottles of orange juice. “Drink this before you see him. I hope you’ll need it.” Callie frowned and opened a bottle and drank it down. “Why?” It’s not like it would hurt to drink it. She was feeling a bit out of sorts, the sugar and vitamin C would do her good. She opened the second bottle and took a drink. 78

In a Stranger’s Arms “You just looked like you could use the extra vitamins.” Keiran closed the trunk. “Shall I drive?” “Why not?” Callie said with a shrug. The more people the merrier. She hadn’t expected them to drop her at the doorstep with another bottle of orange juice and a wave. Taking a deep breath, she walked up the front steps and knocked on the door. “Go away.” She scowled. “Now isn’t that a fine welcome.” She pounded on the door. “Let me in, Gunther, or I’ll break a window. I swear I will. I need to talk to you.” She sure did. She needed to tell him what a selfish bastard he was, leaving her like that. The least he could have done was said goodbye in person. It surprised her when the door cracked open a bit. She took it as an invitation to enter. Pushing the door open further, she slowly entered the house. The dark interior gave it a spooky look. The large rag rug in the center of the floor muffled her footsteps as she entered the darkened room. The door closed behind her with a bang and she jumped. “The wind,” Gunther said from the darkest corner. “What do you want? I presume you asked for me.” She nodded. “I did. I couldn’t…I didn’t…” 79

Tianna Xander Frowning, she wasn’t sure what she wanted to say, now that she’d finally found him. “Why did you just disappear like you did?” “Because you don’t want to have anything to do with me, Callie. Just turn and walk back through that door.” Callie stepped further into the darkness. “Why would you say that? I—” She’d barely stopped herself from telling him she loved him. She cast her gaze to the rug beneath her feet. What a fool she’d been to think someone like him could care for her. Making her way further into the darkness, she barely made out Gunther’s silhouette before something made her stop. Something she sensed that wasn’t quite right. Suddenly she wasn’t sure she wanted to see him. His words told her he didn’t want her here, but something told her he lied. Something told her he wanted her here more than anything else in the world. She felt like a fool, staying when he told her to leave. But, she knew, in her heart, she would forever regret it if she left him to his dark despair. Turning, she walked to the nearest lamp and bent to turn it on. “No!” His exclamation came too late. Light from the lamp flooded the room and Callie suddenly knew why he hid in the darkness. She stumbled backward until the backs of her 80

In a Stranger’s Arms legs hit the sofa she knew was behind her and she sat down hard. His usual glossy black hair hung lank around his gaunt face. He looked like he hadn’t eaten in weeks. His tanned skin had gone gray since she last saw him. He had the look of a terminally ill patient. No wonder he’d left her. He didn’t want her to see him this way. He looked down at his hands clasped in his lap. “Go now. You’ve seen what you came to see.” Callie shook her head. Standing, she moved to kneel between his knees, taking his hands in hers. “No. This is not what I came to see.” She knew then she had to tell him. She couldn’t let him leave this world thinking he was alone, without someone to love him. Reaching up, she brushed a limp lock of hair from his face. “I came to see the man I love.” His swiftly drawn breath told her he’d heard what she said, but he still sat unmoving before her. “You can’t love me, Callie. You have no idea what I am, what I’m capable of.” “I know that you would protect me with your life. I know that deep inside you’re a gentle man. That’s what counts, Gunther. The rest means nothing. It means absolutely nothing.” Even if he turned out to be the vampire, the selfless act of remaining away from her, not pressuring her and letting her make up her own 81

Tianna Xander mind, told her he would never hurt her. Never wish her pain. “You would rather me think the worst of you than suffer the pain of your illness. To know that you’re dying? I could never think you anything but a hero. Even if you were the monster you think yourself to be. I know you now. You may be a monster to others, to those who are evil, but never to me.” She shook her head. “Never to me. I love you, Gunther.” Cupping his face in her hands, she kissed his lips. Tears ran down her face when she realized just how dehydrated and weak he was. It was only then that she realized why Mandy and Keiran insisted she drink the two bottles of orange juice and made her take another with her. Now she understood why Keiran said he hoped she would need them. Wrapping her arms around his neck, she pressed his face into her throat. Her stomach clenched when his warm breath caressed her throat. “Feed, Gunther. Take what you need to survive. Take my love and give me love in return. I need this as much as you do. I don’t want to live without you. Don’t ask me to continue my life without you in it.” Gunther took a deep breath. “So, Callie, does true love really overcome all obstacles? Will you become like me? Will you be my bond mate until 82

In a Stranger’s Arms we both grow tired of this world and seek eternal rest?” She thought about his question for a moment. Could she really get past the fact that he was a vampire? Smiling, she nodded. “It’s a lot to ask you know—giving up aging, aches and pains, broken bones that take weeks to heal and cavities, we can’t forget those. But yes,” she kissed him on the chin. “I’ll make that sacrifice for you.” She buried her face in his shoulder. “Do you think you can put up with me for an eternity?” Gunther licked the side of her neck. “Forever and a day, Callie. I could put up with you forever and a day.” She lifted her head and frowned. “We won’t really live for an eternity, will we?”

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unther drew her into his lap. His teeth elongated, his body demanding he feed, but she wasn’t ready. Instead, he covered her lips with his. She responded to his kiss. Closing her eyes, her lashes fluttered against her cheeks, her lips opened beneath his as she moaned hungrily. Callie’s tongue darted out, laving his lips, inviting. Her hands feathered through his hair, roaming over his back and neck until they pressed against his chest. Her nails scored his upper body, the warmth of her fingers seeping into his cold flesh, warming him to the bone. “Now, Gunther,” she whispered in his ear as he moved his mouth lower to lave at the slender column of her throat. “Do it now. Make yourself stronger and make me yours.” Elation filled him as he stroked her neck with his tongue. She wanted him despite what he was, despite what he’d done to her. He’d changed her forever and still she welcomed him with open 84

In a Stranger’s Arms arms. “I love you,” she screamed as he buried his teeth in her neck. He took only a little—taking only a small amount of her powerful blood. It shocked him that the equivalent of a half a pint of her blood would bring him back to himself after being so near starvation. He swiped his tongue over her neck, closing the small wounds, stopping the flow of fluid that gave him his life back. His lips found hers again and he kissed her deeply—allowing her to taste herself on his lips and tongue. Showing her how just a taste, a few small drops of her blood had returned his immense strength to him. Cupping her breast, he brushed his thumb over her taut nipple. She gasped into his mouth, thrusting her breast forward, begging, without words for more of his touch. Warmth spread over his legs. He felt her pussy weeping, readying itself for him and he nearly lost control. Everything within him wanted to rip and rend her clothes from her body. Yet she’d come to him. She’d been brave enough to face the beast that raged for him to take her body and her blood and make her his. He could do no other than respect her for that. He forced himself to go slower, to worship her and her body the way she deserved. After tonight, they would belong to each other. There would be no going back. Her tongue darted out, dueling 85

Tianna Xander with his in a dance of pure passion that sent his blood to boil. His heart slammed in his chest as her blood mixed with his, making him stronger— making him need her more than ever. She was his mate. Standing, he carried her up the stairs and into the room he’d avoided since he bought the house. The king-sized bed beckoned him over the last couple of weeks, tempting him to go take her and bring her here against her will if necessary. But he had morals and honor and he refused to do that to her. Immense pleasure washed over him at the realization that she’d come to him, even knowing what he was, she accepted him. Settling her in the middle of the bed, he stood before her and slowly undressed. Even now, he gave her the opportunity to run, to refuse him. She stared up at him, her love in her eyes and it nearly unmanned him. How could she feel so much love for him after all he’d put her through? He feared he would never know, and yet he’d be forever grateful that she could still feel so deeply for him. Her eyes widened when he slid his trousers down and he nearly smiled. She licked her lips and his cock jumped in anticipation. He couldn’t wait to feel those full wet lips wrapped around his shaft. Waiting for her consent was nearly his undoing. He nearly fell on her in a lust-crazed frenzy when she raised her arms, silently giving 86

In a Stranger’s Arms him permission to make love to her. His hands moved to her breasts. Deliberately, his palms skimmed her nipples as he moved to release the top button of her blouse. His hands moved slowly, driving her desire higher as she moaned and writhed beneath him in anticipation. Two buttons undone, three. He counted them as he released the buttons in an attempt to keep his raging lust at bay. He wanted her, yes. But, he wanted to make love to her, not ravage her. When the edges of her blouse finally parted and fell away, he was graced, or cursed, with the sight of her cream lace bra. The fact that it was a front clasp garment was his only saving grace. Otherwise, he was sure he would have torn it from her body like the nuisance it was. Finally, when her creamy breasts lay warm and swollen, exposed to his hungry gaze, he lowered his head and laved the turgid tip. She bucked beneath him, her cries of delight muffled by the fist she’d shoved against her mouth. Gunther worshipped her breasts, suckling on the light pink tips, gently biting the hardened nubs then laving away the slight sting. First one, then the other, he sucked into the warm of his mouth, drawing on the hard peaks as though he could gain sustenance from the perfectly rounded mounds. She thrust her fingers through his hair and pulled, holding his head to her breast, crying 87

Tianna Xander out with desperate need as he nipped and laved and suckled the hard peaks. His hips nestled between hers, tired of the game, he wished her clothes away and she gasped at the press of his naked body against hers. He raised his head, looked deep into the endless depth of her blue eyes and flexed his hips. “Do you wish me to stop?” God help him if she did. He would surely die if she bade him to stop. His blood moved thickly though his veins. The beat of his heart pounded in his ears and he wasn’t sure if he could stop now. But, he would try if she asked. Even though he was sure it would kill him. She shook her head and Gunther sent prayer of thanks to the heavens, as she said, “No, Gunther, please don’t stop.” His hand left her breast, moving lower, over her flat stomach, past the curve of her hip. He brushed his fingers over the soft downy curls at the apex of her thighs and she groaned. Lifting her hips, she unconsciously sought his hand. He moved his fingers, desperate to feel the slick entrance to her cunt. He needed to slide his fingers through her wet slit and feel her woman’s juices that were there, running freely for him. The scent of her arousal was intoxicating. His blood thundered in his veins. His cock throbbed with the need to drive deep into her depths and 88

In a Stranger’s Arms his balls ached for release. He inhaled deeply. Mine! He growled. “Mine, you are mine,” he whispered against the underside of her breast, her stomach. Her hands fisted in his hair as he moved between her legs and stared at the glistening red curls between her thighs. She was his. Only his and at once he was filled with both fear and joy. She was his mate and if he had to, he would kill to keep her. Gunther settled himself between her thighs, kissing his way up her legs to the treasure that awaited him, guarded by the beautiful red curls at the juncture of her thighs. He swirled his tongue along the crease of her hip, drawing out the pleasure, needing to prolong the ecstasy he knew awaited her. He wanted, no—needed—to move slowly, take it easy for her sake. He wasn’t human and even though she was enhanced now, he could still hurt her until she bound with him. Still, try as he might, there was no easy way for her, or for him. They were mates and the mating would be intense, possibly rough. He needed to keep control of his needs even though she would be unable to control hers. She trembled against him, her legs jerking in response to his soft kisses. He wanted this first time to be perfect for her. Gunther wanted to carry her away on a sea of pleasure. He didn’t want to 89

Tianna Xander rush through this. The last thing he wanted was to have this become an emotionless claiming, a mindless male rutting over his bond mate. **** Callie couldn’t believe the feelings, the sensations he aroused in her with just a look. When he touched her, it was if her whole world went up in flames. Fire licked at her skin where his hands pushed her thighs apart. She closed her eyes, losing herself in the sensation. Her eyes flew open wide when he settled between her thighs, the warmth of his breath teasing the short curls of her wet nether lips. His tongue lightly skimmed over her flesh, laving the crease of her hip. His hands reached beneath her, cupping her rear, squeezing her buttocks and driving her wild. Her head tossed on the pillow. Her hands fisted in the sheets as she waited for the first touch of his hands, his lips. It didn’t matter, so long as he ended the sweet torment soon. She groaned when his tongue finally swiped through her labia, moaned with pleasure as he found her swollen clit and sucked it between his lips and nibbled lightly. Her hips bucked involuntarily as he drew on the hardened nub, and she released her hold on the sheets to grasp at 90

In a Stranger’s Arms his hair, holding his head to her quivering flesh. Callie screamed out her first real orgasm as he thrust two fingers deep inside her as he massaged her elusive G-spot. Her vagina clenched around his fingers as they thrust in and out and pressed upward into the pleasure giving muscle. She lay on the bed beneath him, panting. She needed to give him pleasure as surely as he’d given it. When he moved to settle himself between her thighs, she pushed at his chest. He rolled off her with a groan, surely thinking she’d changed her mind. His body tightened, his muscles clenched as she moved over him, her hair brushing his chest, stomach and thighs. Fisting his cock in her hand, she lowered her head to swirl her tongue over his penis, licking the glistening drop of fluid from the head. Teasing him, she moved lower, sliding her tongue along the center of his sac. He groaned, fisting his hands in her hair when she pulled his sac into her mouth, one globe at a time. She was careful to not hurt the sensitive flesh. Slowly releasing them, she tipped her head back, looking up into his passion glazed eyes and lowered her mouth over his engorged shaft. “Ah, baby. You don’t know how good that feels.” He massaged her scalp, his hands moved over her hair as if he needed to hold her to him, yet worried he might hurt her. She pulled her 91

Tianna Xander mouth from his cock in one long, slow pull, drawing with ever-increasing suction as she reached the head. He released her head, fisting his hands in the sheets as his hips bucked and jerked involuntarily. Sitting up, he pulled her from her ministrations. “No more, baby. If you keep that up you’re going to kill me.” He took a deep breath, pulled her to him and kissed her deeply. Taking her hips in his strong hands, he lowered her over his throbbing shaft until he slowly impaled her. Callie felt every inch as it slid inside her. Never in her life had she felt so stretched, so filled to the limit. One stroke and she would be lost. She knew it as surely as she knew her name. Gunther rolled them over, threw her legs over his shoulders and stared deeply into her eyes. “You are mine. Say it.” Callie licked her lips, a bit nervous of what all this meant. She knew she wanted him. She knew she loved him, but the intense look on his face frightened her a bit. He gave a slap to her exposed rear end, and then gently rubbed the sting away. “Say it. You are mine.” “I—I’m yours, Gunther.” He pulled from her, resting the head of his cock at the opening of her wet sheath. “Say it again, Callie. Tell me. Please” 92

In a Stranger’s Arms Callie smiled at him and he could see all the love she felt for him in her eyes. “I am yours, Gunther.” He rewarded her by plunging his cock deep inside her then withdrawing again. “Yes you belong to me, Callie, and no other.” He plunged himself deep again. Her vision blurred as her eyes glazed over with need. “Yes, Gunther, yes.” She screamed as he continued to drive into her over and over. He pounded into her soft flesh, his cock throbbing as he drove into her. Orgasm after orgasm hit her hard. She screamed his name, loving the feel of his solid flesh plunging into hers. Soon, when she was sure she couldn’t stand it anymore, when she was sure she wouldn’t survive another climax, he reached between them and thrummed her clit, once again driving her over the edge of another mindless orgasm. He pulled from her clasping channel, his cock still hard. It glistened with her juices as she lay panting on the bed, unable to move. He looked down at her, his love for her shining in his eyes. “This is where we bond with each other, Callie. Now you must choose.” She locked gazes with him, unsure of what he meant. “Choose what, Gunther? I love you I want to spend the rest of my life with you. What else is there to choose?” 93

Tianna Xander He leaned down, kissed her forehead, nose and mouth before rising up on his arms. “Do you choose to live the rest of your life with me or will you choose to spend forever in my arms?” He leaned down to lap at her nipples sending aftershocks through her. She shuddered on the bed beneath him and reached up to hold him to her. “I don’t know what you mean, Gunther.” She released him and he lifted himself enough to look into her eyes. “Will you become like me?” “I thought I already was like you. I know you took my blood then returned it back to me. Doesn’t that make me like you?” She frowned, already knowing the answer. Not once over the last few weeks had she craved blood. The only thing she’d craved was Gunther. “No, love. It made you better, stronger, more resilient against illness but it did not make you like me. The exchange was done through my teeth. To become like me, you must drink my blood.” “Eeew! That’s just gross.” She wrinkled her nose, covering her mouth with her hand. “What happens if I don’t become like you?” she asked through her hand, her words muffled. “Then after a few years, you will die and I will continue on alone until I choose to end my existence.” He moved to sit on the side of the bed, 94

In a Stranger’s Arms his back to her. “Eternity is a long time to spend alone, Callie.” Sitting up, she got to her knees and moved behind him. Wrapping her arms around him, she rested her chin on his shoulder. “Does it taste horrible?” He chuckled and reached up to grasp her hands. “You do not have to drink gallons of my blood, you know. A few drops. That is all. A few drops is just enough for your body to ingest for the change.” She bit her lip. “Just a few drops, that’s it?” Turning his head, he smiled. His hands brushed up her arms to her elbows and he pulled her around him and into his lap. “Hoo! Hi there, junior. I see you’re still happy to see me.” She gave him a wide grin as her hip brushed his still hard cock. He chuckled when she reached down and gave it a little squeeze, then blushed. “Sorry. I couldn’t help myself.” She framed his face with her hands and kissed him. “I can’t have you spending eternity alone, can I?” She pulled the hair back from her neck, then pulled away. “Wait a minute. Does this mean I’ll have to drink blood to survive from now on?” She wrinkled her nose. “‘Cause I don’t think I can do that.” Gunther smiled and stood with her in his arms. 95

Tianna Xander Dropping her on the bed, he pounced on her, his teeth gleaming in the soft light of the room. “No. It does not. It merely means you will be immortal. Here to tame my need for blood with a few drops of your own once in a while.” “Oh, then I guess we can go ahead and do this then.” “Your courage astounds me.” “Your size astounds me, so I guess we’re even.” God, it felt good to be playful with someone. Her life had been too serious until now. “So when are you going to bite me?” He smiled, showing his lengthened incisors. “When you least expect it. When I can make sure there is no pain for you.” “Oh, well, no pain sounds good to me.” She wriggled beneath him, helping him settle between her legs. “Now where were we?” Gunther drew her legs over his shoulders, positioned his cock at her gate. “I believe we were right here,” he said as he drove forward and Callie gasped at his sudden invasion. “Do you know what you feel like to me, Callie?” he asked, his eyes began to glow as he looked down at her. “You feel like wet velvet clasping me, like your perfect little cunt has grabbed my cock and will never let go,” he said when she shook her head. “Most of all, you feel like home.” 96

In a Stranger’s Arms He rammed himself into her then. She felt herself sliding across the satin sheets with every powerful thrust. It wasn’t long before she felt the familiar fire, the flames licking at her toes, up her spine and she screamed out another orgasm. It was then that Gunther leaned down and laved her nipple, suckling on the hardened nub before he sank his teeth in the sensitive flesh over her left breast. Callie screamed, lost in a haze of euphoria, her body still managed to rise up and meet every one of Gunther’s thrusts. He drove into her with abandon. Ramming his hard shaft into her as he drew her life’s blood from her body, strengthening his own in the process. **** Gunther reached up and scratched his chest just above his heart and leaned down, letting Callie choose whether or not she wished to complete their bond. He didn’t force her head to his chest, didn’t attempt to compel her in any way. This was her choice and her choice alone. He would not take that from her. His body trembled from the exertion. He wasn’t sure how much longer he could hold back. She must make her choice before he released his seed into her body. It was a matter of honor for him. 97

Tianna Xander He’d held out this long. He would wait until her choice was made before taking the chance of gifting her with his child—if she would even consider that a gift. Still, the chance was there if he released his seed. She must be sure. He closed his eyes, unable to watch her internal struggle, unable to see the rejection in her eyes. She would voice her objection, he was sure and he would be ready to roll away from her. It would kill him, but he would do it. The first lap of her tongue on his flesh nearly undid him. His cock lengthened and swelled even more. Her tight channel squeezed his cock tighter like a wet velvet fist pumping over his sensitized flesh. His balls ached for release as he continued to drive into her as her tongue stroked over his chest, taking his life force into her body. Elation filled him. He opened his eyes, watching as she sensuously lapped at his flesh. His muscles grew tighter. His blood thundered in his veins. The roaring in his mind became nearly unbearable. Gunther watched as Callie opened her eyes. She smiled up at him. Her tongue darted out to retrieve a drop of his blood from her lower lip and her eyes grew slumberous, sexy. She lapped at his chest again, missing the small scratch, aiming for his flat, hard nipple. He groaned deep in his throat and leaned down, taking her pert, pink nipple into 98

In a Stranger’s Arms his mouth. He suckled and laved on the hardened nub, brushing his incisors over the pebbled tip, and then laving away the slight sting. He saw her climax coming. It was in her eyes, the way they glazed over, her pupils dilating, just before her tight little cunt clamped down on his cock. It drove him over the edge. For the first time in his life, Gunther poured everything he was, everything he would ever be into his climax. Hot jets of semen shot out of him, thick ropes of fluid washed the inside of her tight channel, bathing her womb as she screamed her release beneath him. He collapsed on her, careful not to rest his full weight on her delicate frame; then resting on his elbows, he nuzzled her breasts. Callie wrapped her arms around his neck, her fingers tunneling through his hair. “I love you, Gunther Andarton.” He gave her nipple one last swipe with his tongue before raising his head. “And I love you, Callie.” Rolling to the side, he pulled her into his arms and kissed the top of her head. Never, in all his years had he thought to be lucky enough to find his true bond mate. Settling her closer within his embrace, he held her tight as they both drifted to sleep.

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allie woke to the sensation of Gunther nuzzling her breast. He nipped at her nipple, then used his tongue to sooth away the slight sting. She stretched languidly, rolling slightly to give him better access to her other breast and gasped when he sucked it into the warmth of his mouth. “I do love you, Gunther, but I need a shower.” Her muscles were deliciously sore and she felt sticky. Besides, she thought with a smile, there were many other interesting things she could think of to do in the shower. “What are you thinking?” Gunther asked, blowing across her breast. He watched as her nipple tightened into a hard peak and grinned when she covered herself with her hands. “I was just thinking what interesting things we could do in a shower together.” His grin got wider and she wondered what he’d been up to while she slept. “I had a similar idea with the Jacuzzi.” 100

In a Stranger’s Arms “You have a Jacuzzi?” Chuckling, he nodded. “If you would have waited for a tour of the house last night before jumping my bones, you would have known there is a Jacuzzi here.” Standing, Callie wrapped the sheet around her like a toga and stepped away from the bed. “Where is this wonderful bathroom of yours? I need a bath.” He shook his head. “I think you just want to explore the possibilities in my tub.” Smiling, she tossed her hair over her shoulder. “That too. Are you going to tell me or leave me to find it on my own?” Gunther scooped her up in his arms and she squealed. “Put me down, you Neanderthal!” she giggled as he carried her into the bathroom where a large steaming tub already awaited them in a huge bathroom. The sink, tub and commode were all black with gold fixtures. The faucets gleamed in the glow of the overhead light. The rose marble tile on the floor was a perfect contrast to the fixtures and Callie stared with awe for a moment before she realized this was a part of another seduction. She glared at him through narrowed eyes when she noticed the steaming tub. “You planned this.” “Of course. I’ve planned several things for today.” He sat her on the edge of the tub and knelt 101

Tianna Xander before her. “I know you have already chosen to bond with me in the ways of our people, but would you marry me in the ways of yours?” he asked, holding his hand out to reveal a stunning diamond ring surrounded by sapphires. Tears streamed down her face as she looked from the ring in his hand to his handsome face. She feathered her hands through his ebony hair and gazed into his dark chocolate eyes. He looked nervous. As though what happened between them last night hadn’t been the most beautiful, profound thing in her life. She nodded, swiping the tears from her cheeks. “Yes. Not only did you save my life, but after last night, how could you think the answer would be anything but yes?” He unbound the sheet from her body, exposing every inch of her to his gaze. He picked her up and stepped into the churning waters of the Jacuzzi. “Let’s see what kind of adventures we can dream up in here, before we face the world and our new life, shall we?”

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Bcpvu!uif!Bvuips! Tianna Xander is an eclectic author of numerous paranormal, sci-fi, time travel, romance erotica books. Gaining inspiration for her characters and dialogue through her family and her addiction to the internet, she never fails to amaze readers with each new book she creates. As a reading junkie herself, Tianna has no problem reading whatever is available at the moment; from romance novels, murder mysteries and encyclopedias to books on solar energy. Tianna’s life wouldn’t be complete without a “happily ever after” of her very own. She resides in Michigan with her husband, two children, three cats, two dogs and an intimidating bunny. Never one to fail to give credit where it’s due, she commends her family for their constant support. After writing many books and receiving rave reviews, her family is just as proud of her. Always full of ideas, Tianna rarely puts the pen down, so readers can look forward to many more exciting stories in the future. http://www.TiannaXander.com