Moonlit Dream

SAPPHIRE BLUE BOOKS are published by: Sapphire Blue Publishing, LLC P.O. Box 42255 Phoenix, AZ 85080-2255 Copyright © 2008 Crystal-Rain Love Publisher’s Edition Copyright © 2008 Sapphire Blue Publishing Cover Art by Kendra Egert All rights reserved. eBooks are not transferable and can not be given away, sold or shared. No portion of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any electronic or mechanical means, including photocopying, faxing, forwarded by email, recording or by any information retrieval and storage system without permission of the publisher, except where permitted by law, as this is an infringement on the copyright of this work. Brief quotations within reviews or articles are acceptable. Sapphire Blue Fairy Logo © 2007 Sapphire Blue Publishing, LLC ISBN 978-1-934657-10-2 Publisher’s Note. This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places and incidents are a product of the author’s imagination. Any resemblance to a person or persons, living or dead, business establishments, events or locales is purely coincidental. First Sapphire Blue Publishing, LLC electronic publication: November 2008

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Moonlit Dream

By Crystal-Rain Love

SAPPHIRE BLUE PUBLISHING http://www.sapphirebluepublishing.com

Dedication: This one's for you, Cole! Thanks for all your help. You're an awesome critique partner and an even better friend.

Acknowledgements: Nicole Reising & Paula Beaty- Thank you for being awesome critique partners! The lovely ladies of my “fan club:” Miriam, Von, Dee, Nesha, Keri My beautiful children. All I do, I do with you in my heart! My awesome big brother, Joel, who loves his little sister enough to buy her girly romance novels.

Moonlit Dream

Chapter One He would die tonight. Jason ran at breakneck speed through the woods. Wind whipped across his face so hard it stung his flesh. Blood oozed from his chest wound. If the wolves didn't get him first, he would bleed to death. He pushed on, ignoring the pain ricocheting through his body. He refused to make it easy for them to get him. He'd survived being beaten by his stepfather as a kid, held at gunpoint in a convenience store as a teen, and hell, he'd survived prison. He had to survive this. “I will survive this.” He rounded a bend, then slid to a stop to avoid running straight into a huge rock formation. A wolf bayed in the distance, the sound eerie in the misty night. A cold chill ran the length of his spine as more of them howled in response, the sound closer. The beasts were nearly upon him. They would eat him alive…like the others. “God, help me.” His plea a desperate whisper as he tightened his grip around the handle of the blade he'd used against one of the beasts earlier, narrowly escaping the massive snapping jaws. He crouched with his back against the rock, ready to spring, ready to fight until he drew his last breath. If he was to die tonight, he would take as many of the red-eyed monsters with him as he could. 1

Crystal-Rain Love The sound of underbrush being trampled beneath the weight of their paws rang inside his ears as they crept forward. Heart hammering in his throat, Jason began to make out their forms. Three gray wolves stalked him, their heads low, ready to attack. They assessed him as he studied them. Two medium sized beasts flanked the larger one in the center and fanned out to cover him in three directions. His hand tightened around the blade. He didn't have a chance in hell of getting all three, but a little relief washed over him knowing these were not the same wolves he'd seen eating people earlier tonight. Those beasts had been huge, with red, glowing eyes. Demon dogs. He'd take on three normal wolves any day over the chance of going toe-to-toe with one of those monsters. The wolf in the middle lowered itself, ready to lunge forward and rip him to shreds, but suddenly stilled, cocking its head to the side. The hair on the back of Jason's neck stood on end and he felt it too...the sense that something far more powerful than these beasts approached. He'd no more than finished the thought when a dark shadow flew over his head. A large black wolf landed before him. It lowered its sleek head and issued a warning snarl to the three gray predators. The gray wolves had the advantage. They outnumbered the black wolf three to one and had the creature surrounded. Jason’s jaw dropped open in surprise when instead of charging, they tucked tail and ran. The remaining wolf turned and stared him down with eyes that faded from red to a smoky topaz. The animal tilted its head and whined. Though it looked as big as the wolves that’d attacked the people he'd been traveling with and had the same red eyes, he sensed no evil. Instinctively, he knew the animal wouldn't hurt him. Run. Hide yourself. He started, twisting his head around to discern where the voice he'd heard so clearly had come from. Was there another person in the woods running from the wild beasts? A woman? Had one survived? Run, you foolish human. Go! 2

Moonlit Dream The wolf butted against him with its head, staggered, then fell. “No way.” He stared at the wolf and, an odd sense of déjà vu washed over him. He'd seen this animal before. He'd dreamed of running through the woods, these woods, with a beautiful black wolf just like her. He'd woken to find the gorgeous creature staring at him from across his prison cell. No way. No possible way. “I am not out here in the woods hearing animals like freaking Doctor Doolittle.” You can hear me? Jason’s eyes widened in disbelief. He tried to back away but the large rock formation blocked his escape route; even the jagged heap of stone looked vaguely familiar. This couldn't be happening. He was just having trouble adapting to the outside world. He'd been in prison too long. That had to be it. “No freaking way,” he whispered as he studied the animal. She could only be described as beautiful. Strong, sleek, with fur like black silk shining in the moonlight. He narrowed his eyes as the moon showed something wet glinting off her side. Tentative and slow, so he wouldn’t startle her, Jason reached out with two fingers and touched the spot. He pulled back bloody fingertips. “What happened to you, girl?” I‘ve been shot, and quit talking to me like I'm some mangy mutt. He jerked his head up to meet her gaze. The wolf stared at him with eyes so human he could be having a conversation with some woman in a bar, not squatting in the forest, talking to a wolf and hearing her respond in his mind. Jason glanced around, sensing for imminent danger. Those deadly wolves were out there and he sat crouched between a rock wall and an injured animal. The scent of their blood alone would draw all manner of beasts, but he couldn't leave her. She'd saved his life, and he had an affinity for animals. “Come on, girl, let's get you to a vet and then maybe I can have my head shrunk.” He bent forward to scoop up the black beauty when a threatening growl stopped him. The bullet was silver. I don't have much longer. Run while you can. 3

Crystal-Rain Love They'll kill you! Her eyes burned red, then slowly shifted back to amber. “Silver? What the hell are you, a Werewolf?” He laughed at the ridiculous notion, but quickly sobered when the wolf didn’t even blink. Realization caused his stomach to bottom out. The wolves that’d attacked his fellow travelers were much larger than normal, and their eyes had glowed red, too. “I have seriously lost my mind. Or maybe it's all a dream,” he added, liking that explanation a lot better. “Yeah, this is all a dream and I'm supposed to save you. You'll turn out to be a real hot woman and we'll get freaky in the woods while danger surrounds us. I can handle that.” She growled again, the sound weaker than before. Leave, you fool. They'll kill you! “Yeah, sure. I'm going to be killed by Werewolves.” He laughed, his muscles relaxing. “Go ahead and shift for me then. You've gotta be fine as hell since this is my dream.” Run, you idiot! I can't shift with silver in my body and I'm too weak to protect you! “Well, that's all you had to say.” He studied her wound, squinting to see it clearly in the dark. “I'll just get this out of you.” Her eyes blazed red again then quickly flickered out. If you so much as attempt to stick that knife in me-“Relax, darlin'.” He chuckled. “I happen to have a few cool tricks of my own.” He focused on the wound, and the prickly sparks of warm energy came alive inside his body as he held his hand over the wolf, sensing for the bullet. Once detected, he trained his power on the piece of silver and quickly extracted it, catching the bullet in his hand with ease. “All set.” How did you do that? The wolf's eyes were wide, and a sense of satisfaction warmed him from the inside. “I told you I had a few cool tricks. Now let me see what you can do.” 4

Moonlit Dream They're coming. The wolf swiveled her head around and attempted to rise, whimpering in pain when the feat proved too much. Jason’s heart went out to the animal’s pain. “I can't heal you. Will the wound be there when you shift?” No, but I'll be weak from the exertion. “Then I'll carry you.” Why are you helping me? The wolf cocked her head to the side, and Jason swore the animal’s brows furrowed. “Because I just got out of prison and wouldn't mind getting laid, even if it's just a crazy dream,” he answered with a devilish grin, growing more amused with each passing second. Fool. She actually shook her head at him. He frowned and started to respond, but words caught in his throat as a kaleidoscope of colors shimmered over the wolf's body. Before his eyes, the animal metamorphosed into a beautiful Asian woman with long dark hair, pale skin and lips red as rubies. “Hey!” He took in her tight jeans and black rib-knit sweater. “If this is my dream you should be naked.” “This isn't a dream, you stupid human.” She sat up with much effort spent on the move. “They're coming. They'll kill us both.” “Why would your own people, or whatever they are, kill you?” “Just run, fool!” The irritation in her tone came through strong. “You know, you're starting to annoy me with the name-calling.” Jason scooped the petite beauty into his arms, winced as pain ricocheted through his body from his own wounds, and straightened to a stand. “So what's your name, darlin'?” “Ming.” “Well, Ming, do you know a safe place I can take you?” He shifted her more securely in his hold which pressed her firmly against his chest while he tried to place where he'd heard the name before. “Follow the hawk. He’s my friend,” she whispered before she passed out 5

Crystal-Rain Love in his arms. “Follow the hawk? What the—” A loud screech sounded over his head and he peered up to see the outline of a large hawk circling above him in the night sky. “Okay,” he muttered, “I'll follow the hawk through a dark forest while Werewolves are on the prowl and see how this crazy dream ends.”

6

Moonlit Dream

Chapter Two Cold invaded Ming's body first, followed by pain as she raised herself off the hard floor of the cave to inspect her surroundings. She stretched her back and flexed her neck side to side, easing the soreness that sleeping on the hard earth in human form caused. A pile of smoking tree limbs sat nearby, the absence of fire causing the air to grow cool. She gazed around the enclosure and realized she was alone in the rear section of the cave. Had he left her here? No, he wouldn't. He was too honorable to desert her with danger imminent. Adamant in Jason's defense, she shook her head. She didn't really know the man and all she'd gleaned from their first physical meeting was that he was a horny convict who refused to believe the truth when he stared right at it. That wasn't fair. Jason was human, unused to her kind. She should be thankful he hadn't tried to kill her. He could have taken one look at her, decided she was as evil as the rest of her pack, and killed her with the silver blade he carried, but he didn’t. Instead, he'd even used his own magic to extract the bullet from her body without further pain. She sure hadn't seen that in her dreams. Despite the magic issue, Jason was exactly as he'd appeared in the 7

Crystal-Rain Love dreams, which had entertained her over the course of her life. His eyes were greener than the forest floor, his skin as flawless as the painting the sun etched into the sky each day it rose, and his voice...his voice a low roll of thunder, so undeniably arousing she'd long for him even without the assistance of the full moon drawing near. Oh, why did her dream lover have to step into her reality now of all times? With the full moon so close and her entire pack crazed from the effects? The moon phase was time for mating and war, not peace and understanding. Why couldn't he have come when she'd have more time to learn of him? To allow him to learn of her and her kind? Why had The White Wolf listened to her plea now and not the many she’d made before? She knew he'd been hurt many times in his life, a victim of violence early in his years. She recalled the astral visits when she'd held him as he huddled in his closet crying, fearing the next slap of leather against his skin. They'd both been children when she’d come to him in those moments and whispered words to soothe his battered soul. Man had tried so hard to break him and judging by her most recent dreams, they nearly had. Why had he been imprisoned? There was blood on his hands, she knew, but he was so honorable, so pure of heart...not the type of man to kill for sport, so unlike the men of her pack. Thoughts of her pack reminded her she needed to find him and assess his physical state before the pack found them. He'd been wounded the night before and carrying her through the forest couldn't have helped his healing. There was a small tunnel before her. Cautious, Ming crept through, sniffing the air, unsure of what she would find at the end. Her breath caught in her throat when she traveled the length of the tunnel and came upon him. He rested with his back against the cavern wall, blade held tight in his hand at the ready despite the fact that he slept soundly. He guarded her, not even aware the strength of what he would go up against or the seriousness of his own injuries. Ming narrowed her eyes on his form, trying to find his wounds. She 8

Moonlit Dream could smell the rich coppery scent of dried blood on his body, but, despite her excellent vision in the dark, she couldn't see any injuries without a closer inspection. She crept nearer to kneel before him on the ground. So beautiful, such a fine specimen of masculinity from his hard, stubble-covered jaw all the way down to his lean, muscular legs. She had to close her eyes and suck in air. She couldn't give in to the pull of the moon. Not until they were out of harm's way, at least. She opened her eyes and focused on the tears in his bloody T-shirt. Her heart leapt in her throat at the sight. Straight across his chest. A miracle his heart still beat within. Ming fought off the heavy weight of guilt. Her pack had brought this man's blood to the surface. Careful to avoid hurting him further, Ming reached out to delicately touch his chest and inspect the degree of damage he'd taken. His eyes snapped open, and, before she had time to react, she found herself slammed to her back on the hard cave floor, his legs straddled over her thighs as one calloused hand encircled her neck, the other raised above her, poised with knife at the ready. Panic caused her to start to shift form, but she fought off the automatic change as she witnessed the fury in his gorgeous green eyes change from confusion to guilt. “Shit,” he muttered and released her to back away. “Don't sneak up on me when I'm asleep.” “I'm sorry,” she half-croaked as she rubbed her throat and rose to a sitting position. “I didn't think. I wanted to inspect your wounds.” “I'm fine.” He let out a frustration-filled sigh and ran a hand through his dark hair before resting his elbows on his raised knees. “How are you doing?” She smiled, warmed by his concern. “I healed when I shifted. You're still hurt.” “I'll survive.” He narrowed his gaze on her for a brief moment before turning his head to look toward the mouth of the cave. “At least I will if I don't 9

Crystal-Rain Love have any more run-ins with those demon dogs.” “Werewolves.” The heat of shame rose in her cheeks as she corrected him. “I'm sorry for everything that happened last night.” “What the hell did happen? I left the group to gather some firewood and all hell broke loose. I came back to find them being eaten alive.” He shuddered, and Ming could only imagine the scene he'd witnessed. “So I take it you're not still trying to convince yourself this is all a dream?” “No, I remember you. I haven't seen you since we were kids, and I didn't instantly recognize the name. But after I'd slept a bit and dreamt about what happened all those years ago, I remember you, Ming.” He closed his eyes and leaned his head back against the wall. “What the hell is going on? I'd convinced myself you were an imaginary friend after you quit visiting me, but now you're here and you're a—a Werewolf? I'm losing my damned mind, definitely too much time in the joint.” “You're perfectly sane, Jason. And I never stopped visiting you on the astral plane. I've been with you on several occasions, you just couldn't see me.” “The astral what?” His brow crinkled in confusion as he stared at her. “The astral plane. That's how we met. We just didn't know what it was called. I'd feel your distress and I'd leave my body to come find you.” He blinked, shaking his head. “I never left my body.” “No, but you saw me anyway. And then there were the dreams.” His eyes widened. “When I dreamed of you, that was real? You were really there?” “We met each other in our dreams all the time back then.” Ming lowered her voice. “And a few times since.” She looked into his eyes, willing him to remember the dream they'd shared the night of his high school graduation. Eighteen years old and free to flee his childhood home, his only worry had been whether or not to leave his mother alone with her drunk of a husband. 10

Moonlit Dream She'd come to him in his dream and celebrated his newfound freedom, reassured him when he voiced concerns for his mother's welfare. Sometime during the night they'd given in to the temptation that had been growing between them over the years. They'd made love in the little dream world they shared, but it had been so real she'd woken up smelling of him. Then he'd shut down on her. He ignored her astral visits, even when in jail. She'd all but screamed in his face, but it was as if she spoke to a wall. No response. Nothing. He'd looked right through her, didn't even flinch when she yelled in his ear. Hell, he walked through her once. She couldn't find him in her dreams, either. Any dreams she'd had of Jason were bittersweet memories and even with his presence being there, she was alone in them. She'd given up on him, accepted the fact that he no longer needed her. But still, every once in a while his pain and heartache would find her while she rested, and her spirit would leave her body and travel to his side...only to be ignored. “So you're saying my whole life I've had a little guardian Werewolf peeking over my shoulder?” His gaze, full of incredulity, bore into hers. Ming held it despite the sting of tears behind her eyes. His disbelief wrapped around her heart like barbed wire. “I was your friend, I was there when you needed me, and apparently after you decided you no longer wanted me.” “What do you mean by that?” His eyes lit with irritation. “I came to you in prison, Jason. You ignored me. It was like I wasn't even there.” Her voice cracked, and she quickly swallowed to avoid a sob. “I didn't see you,” he murmured, scratching his head. “I saw you as a wolf a few times but only for a second. I haven't seen you like this since—” His body went still as heat entered his eyes, his gaze slowly caressed her body. “Let me guess. That wasn't a wet dream I had the night of my graduation?” “No,” Ming answered, relieved he remembered. “We made love that night. 11

Crystal-Rain Love Our first time together was in the dream realm, but no less real.” “I'm not in the dream realm now?” “This is real,” Ming answered. A twinge of guilt crept down her spine. She couldn't tell him the truth now, not if she wanted to keep him safe. Being human, he wouldn't understand unless brought in slowly. And this was real, even if in a different realm. “I've lived here in North Carolina for a while now. You've stumbled upon the land my pack has claimed, finally meeting me in the flesh.” “Ming?” “Yes?” “Did you know I was real?” “Yes. I realized it shortly after the last dream we shared.” Her body heated with the reminder. “Then why didn't you get in touch with me?” “I told you I visited—” “No, not astrally, whatever the hell that really is! I spent a damned decade in prison with not one visitor, not one letter. If you visited me there and knew where I was, why didn't you come see me in the flesh? The few times you came as a wolf, why did you vanish as soon as I saw you?” Ming took a deep breath and exhaled slowly. She hadn't come to him in wolf form. He must have seen her in a vision, a good sign. “For one thing, when you couldn't see me anymore astrally, I thought you didn't want anything to do with me. And then there's the simple fact that I stick to your side when I project myself to you. I couldn't travel away from you to tell what prison you were in, and you never told me your last name. So finding you wasn't as easy as you think.” She didn't answer his last question. He was confused enough without her explaining to him that she wasn't there when he saw her, only when he didn't see her. Hell, she almost confused herself thinking about it. He turned his face away but not before she saw the pain flitting through his eyes as his jaw set tight. 12

Moonlit Dream “Why are you here now? Why did you bother to save me from those wolves?” Because you're mine, she started to say, but stopped. Bad enough he would have to take a crash course in Werewolfology in order to survive the moon phase, but she could at least ease him into the other issue. “I would never leave you to die, Jason. I never left you at all. You simply stopped opening yourself to me.” “How could I stop doing something I wasn't even aware I did?” “I don't know. It doesn't matter now,” she lied, pushing back the hurt inside, knowing how close he'd come to completely forgetting her over the years. “You're a wanted man. We need to focus on keeping you alive.” “What did I do? I was minding my own business and your people, or wolves, ambushed me.” She winced at the accusation. “They ambushed your group. You came here with Were-hunters.” “Were-hunters?” He shook his head. “Look, I don't know anything about the people I was with. I was traveling, enjoying the wild blue yonder after spending the past ten years locked up. I hitched a ride with them a few miles back.” Ming frowned, curious as to why the mystical being who’d brought Jason to her had chosen to bring him with hunters. “Why were you all in the woods?” “They said they camped out as they traveled, preferred it to motels.” He shrugged his shoulders. “They were my ride so I went along. Hell, after ten years in a cell, I've lost the ability to care about my sleeping arrangements.” “They weren't traveling for fun, Jason. They were hunting us. Their kind travels in groups armed with silver bullets and blades.” She paused to look pointedly at the blade he twirled in his hand. “They weren't innocents. My pack took them out before they could take us out. The fact that you were with them and even tore off a wolf's muzzle with that damned silver blade, not to mention injuring several others, does not bode well for you.” 13

Crystal-Rain Love “Shit.” Jason swallowed heavily. “They think I came here to kill them?” “Yeah, they do. They've got your scent and they'll track you as long as you remain in the woods. The only reason I was able to save you from the familiars was because I have a connection to you which allowed me to hone in on you much faster than they could achieve with only their sense of smell. If they'd caught up to you before I did—” “Wait. What are familiars?” “Real wolves. The three who trapped you were regular gray wolves. That's why they ran when I confronted them. If they had been Weres, I'd have had to actually fight for you.” “You couldn't just vouch for me? Tell them I didn't come here to kill?” “I'm a woman, Jason.” Ming laughed in disgust. “My purpose is to breed. They couldn't give a lesser damn what I say about anything.” “Your purpose is to what?” Jason leaned forward, his eyes narrowed to match the sudden darkening to his tone. Ming turned away as the tell-tale heat of shame flushed her skin. Jason wasn't of her world. Sure, humans had sex as often as Weres and many of them switched partners often, but they weren't forced or expected to just for breeding purposes. “In my world, a woman's purpose is to breed,” she said softly, averting her gaze so she wouldn't have to see the disgust in his eyes. “Each time the moon blooms full we go into heat for the entire week leading up to it. Any male who can catch us has the right, by wolf law, to mate with us.” “What if the female Were says no?” His voice a low rumble. She kept her eyes lowered in shame. “The pull of the moon doesn't make refusing an option.” “Ming?” “What?” She forced herself to meet his gaze and was surprised to see no repulsion in his eyes, only a ruthlessness that would cause any Were to tremble in fear. “How many times have you been forced to mate?” 14

Moonlit Dream “None,” she answered truthfully. “My father used to control the pack and held on to the old-fashioned values. He believed Weres should only breed with their destined mates, but our pack started to thin out and then there were more males born than females. Yet, despite the growing complaints from the males he did not pass any laws requiring us to mate solely for rebuilding our pack number.” “What changed?” “He was challenged. After his throat was ripped out, his successor passed a law declaring all female Weres not joined with their soul mate could not refuse to breed. Currently there are only four non-pregnant, unmated female wolves of breeding age and about thirty males. The other three females don't mind the law, they just want to relieve themselves of the desire the moon forces upon us.” Ming drew her knees to her chest and wrapped her arms around them. “I've managed to avoid being forced into submission the past moon cycles by conveniently being away. Unfortunately, the pack leader caught on to my scheme and made sure I didn't escape this time.” She gazed at Jason and smiled. “You saved me as much as I saved you. A pair of men you traveled with broke away from their camp and took aim at a member of our pack, unaware we were all nearby. When one of our pack is attacked, we all fight. During the chaos I broke away and sensed you. I followed you deep into the woods, further away from the rest of the pack.” “You were shot by those men?” A deep frown line creased his brow. “Yes, but you saved me,” she quickly tried to erase the guilt she sensed in him. He'd always been the type to protect. “You removed the bullet with magic I didn't even know you had and brought me here to heal. You've helped me a great deal, but I'm afraid that by helping me you've put yourself in even more danger.” “How?” “The full moon rises this week, Jason. As far as they're concerned, you've stolen one of the pack's females. They will hunt us both relentlessly.” 15

Crystal-Rain Love “They know we're together?” “The pack leader has a special connection with me. He'll use it to track me and he'll sense you. I should tell you to leave me and try to make it out of the woods alone, but by now a call will have been put out to the many gray wolves in the area. They will all be instructed to kill you. One man alone cannot defend himself against so many enemies.” “So break the damned connection,” he growled. “I can't.” “Why the hell not? Don't tell me this leader guy is someone you used to be in love with?” “It's not that kind of connection.” A little thrill ran up her spine as she detected the trace of jealousy in his tone. “The successor who killed my father, who subjected the women of my pack to forced mating, is my brother.”

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Moonlit Dream

Chapter Three Ming was real. Jason still couldn't get over the idea hours later as they trekked through the woods. He watched while she sniffed the air every so many steps. The beautiful woman of his dreams was real…and in trouble. He had to save her, take her away from this place, from these people, beasts, who believed they could take what they wanted, control their women, treat them as lesser beings. His hands clenched into tight fists as raw anger flowed through him. Jason recalled how his mother had put up with that cruelty, and he'd failed to protect her. He wouldn't do the same with Ming, his only friend. She stiffened and came to an abrupt stop before him. “What is it?” “Familiars.” Her voice lowered to a whisper. “They haven't sensed you yet, but they're getting closer.” “How far until we reach the edge of the woods?” Jason glanced around, trying to still the rapid beating of his heart. “Doesn't matter. The perimeter is covered.” “Shit.” “Yeah, that about says it.” 17

Crystal-Rain Love “How can you sense them without them sensing you?” A tremor of fear crawled up his spine. He'd been in countless fights, both in and out of prison, but something about going against wild animals frightened him to the core. People, he could maneuver with. Wolves, and Werewolves for that matter, were something else entirely. He wasn't going to make the mistake of getting cocky because he'd managed to survive one night. “They're too far away right now. I can't sense them either but I have eyes in the sky.” Ming looked upward and he followed her gaze to see a group of hawks circling in the air above them. “How do you communicate with the hawks?” “In here.” She tapped her temple with a long, unpolished fingernail. “I've always been able to communicate with animals of all types.” “Can all Werewolves do that?” “No. Most of us can only communicate telepathically with each other, and familiars, of course. My grandmother spoke with all animals and apparently I inherited the ability.” “Unbelievable,” he whispered in awe, trying to wrap his mind around everything. He'd conceded he wasn't in a dream and his previously presumed imaginary friend was real…a Werewolf. But telepathically communicating with animals? “Yes, I guess it's about as believable as being able to move objects with your mind.” Ming grinned and walked forward, motioning for him to follow. “How long have you been able to do that?” “I think the first time was when I was about twelve,” he answered softly as images he'd long given up trying to forget flooded his mind. He'd been trembling in a corner, tasting his blood in his mouth when his mother had covered him with her own body, foolishly trying to protect him. It didn't take much for his stepfather to dislodge her and start beating her in his place. Jason had been so angry…so scared when he saw blood fly out of her mouth and spray the wall. Before he knew what he was doing, a lamp shot off the end table and connected with his stepfather's head, though no one had 18

Moonlit Dream touched it. Two fingers snapped in front of his face, and he blinked out of the memory to find himself with the most beautiful, exotic woman he'd ever met. A woman so gorgeous he'd always thought her a dream. Ming. “Are you all right?” Her soft voice was a soothing balm to the pain in his heart. “I'm fine.” He backed away as she tried to touch his face. Damn. He hadn't saved his mother. What made him think he could save her? She frowned at his action, but lowered her hand to her side. “Jason, why were you in prison? What happened?” I let that bastard kill my mother, he thought, but didn't answer. Instead, he looked to the sky and watched as the hawks scattered. “Where are they going?” Ming followed his gaze to the empty sky then narrowed her eyes on him. “They're locating the familiars and Weres so they can keep me updated. They’ll make sure we don't walk into their path. You didn't answer my question, Jason. What happened to you? Why did you forget me?” “I didn't think you were real.” He hoped she'd forget the other questions. “I thought you were just a friend I pretended to have when…” He let his voice trail off, not wanting to voice his memory. “When you hid from your stepfather.” Pride wounded, Jason clenched his jaw tight and marched past the woman looking at him with compassion, an emotion he didn't want. He wanted her respect and awe. To know he could protect her. But he couldn't. Why would she think of him as anything but a scared little boy? She knew firsthand what a coward he'd been. “Jason, stop.” He glanced down to where her pale hand gripped his arm and struggled not to shrug her off. He wanted to walk away, to leave before she found out more of his failures. “What do you want from me, Ming?” 19

Crystal-Rain Love Her eyes widened as she drew her hand back. He saw the flash of pain before she blinked and shame crawled inside his body. He didn't mean to snap at her, not the one friend he'd had during his traumatic childhood. “I'm sorry,” he mumbled, turning away. “I'm not the best at conversation.” “We used to talk all the time, about everything.” She laid her hand on his shoulder, turning him to face her. “Not everything.” A small, spiteful chuckle erupted from his throat. “You never knew everything about me, and I obviously didn't know everything about you.” “I may be different, but I'm still a woman.” Her gaze lowered. “Mostly.” He looked at the gorgeous woman his childhood friend had become and couldn't believe the shame he heard in her voice. “Ming—” “No, I understand,” she cut him off. “You think I'm some sort of freakish half-human, half-animal thing. Why wouldn't you? I really shouldn't be sur—” Unable to bear the hurt in her tone for another second, he grabbed her by the face and sealed his mouth over hers, effectively turning her words into a surprised gasp, which he swallowed and twisted into a low moan. The low growl of arousal from her throat fed the desire he'd tamped down all day as he'd followed her through the woods, failing miserably to keep his eyes off her backside in those damned tight jeans. Her earthy scent filled his nose, fueling his need to relive the night they'd shared so many years ago, to hear her cry out in passion under him once more…and now that he actually knew what he was doing, he'd make damn sure she lived up to her wolf nature and howl. That thought along with the screech of a hawk above them brought Jason back to his senses. They were in the middle of the woods being tracked by a pack of Werewolves. Her life was in danger because she'd chosen to protect him, and to repay the debt he was trying to work his way into her pants, allowing their enemies to close the distance between them. Disgusted by his lack of control, he released the beautiful Were and stepped away. 20

Moonlit Dream “You're not a freak, Ming. Whatever the hell you may be, it's definitely not that.”

~~~ Ming's back connected with a Black Oak, her balance off after Jason’s abrupt release. He stood before her, his breathing heavy and his eyes filled with a mixture of guilt and lust. He turned those eyes away from her, looking to the sky as one of her winged friends gave a report. Barely registering the update, she clenched her hands into fists, fighting against the urge to push Jason to the ground and shred off his clothing. Touching her lips, she remembered the taste of him as he'd devoured her mouth, the move wild and animal enough to rival her own nature. He'd awakened the wolf inside her and it wasn't even nightfall yet. Damn. “Ming?” He stared at her again, confusion cutting through the lust still evident in his gaze. Lust. She could barely believe it. After knowing what she was, he still desired her, had kissed her more thoroughly than he'd ever done in their dreams. Arousal, thick and heavy, snaked through her belly, and she wondered how sex would be with him now that they were more mature. The dream sex all those years ago may have been real, but she knew the physical sensations were slightly muted. Plus, they'd been young and inexperienced. She may have never mated again, but Jason… She fought back the dark fury of jealousy as it entered her system via her chest…a raging fire within her heart. They'd mated, but not bonded by the light of the moon. He'd been free to experience other women during the short time between that night and his incarceration. Human women. “Ming? What's the hawk saying?” The hawk? Oh, yes, the hawk. Jealousy sequestered itself in the back of her mind at the reminder of imminent danger. She'd not waited a decade to enjoy Jason's touch again only to see him die. To get him away from her pack 21

Crystal-Rain Love was priority now. She'd have to wait until then to sate her desires. Looking to the sky, needing to remove her gaze from Jason's wonderfully toned body in order to focus, she cleared her mind the best she could of wayward thoughts and finally took heed of the hawk's warning. The hawk’s message filtered into her mind. “Familiars headed this way! Let's go!” She took off at a sprint while the hawk soared above them. Ming knew Jason would follow with no trouble. He was tall and powerfully built, able to keep up with her strides without exerting himself. Most human men would have great difficulty matching her in physical activity despite their build, but then, Jason had never been a normal human male. He was her mate, designed just for her…but ultimately the decision was still his. He could easily cast her aside, opting to find a normal woman to spend his life with, if he had a life left. A howl ripped through the darkening air, and Jason bit out a curse behind her. “I think they've located us!” “They’ve picked up our scent. Hurry, we have to lose them!” She broke into a full-out run, jumping over bushes and fallen tree limbs, relief swamping through her as Jason reached her side and maintained his position there. Ming cursed herself for allowing Jason’s kiss to distract her to the point of ignoring the hawk’s warning. Together they ran at a faster pace, their footfalls loud against the earth. Their trail of crushed underbrush made it easier for the familiars to find them. The hawk cried above her, his announcement giving her good news. “Water ahead! The familiars will lose our scent there! We have to make it!” Jason nodded, not saying a word, and she noticed his breath came in heavy pants now. He may be stronger than a normal human male, more capable of handling heavy exertion, but he was still human…and injured. Even she felt the effect of the run, experiencing it in her human form instead of wolf. 22

Moonlit Dream The sky darkened above them, the approach of the moon called to her, beckoned the wolf inside to come out to play. She fought against the pull. If she changed, she'd leave Jason in the dust and that could not be done. He was hers to protect. They had to make it to the water. They rounded a bend, and the hawk screeched above them, panic in the sound. The wolves were gaining on them. “Not much farther!” Jason didn't answer, his chest heaved as he fought to stay with her. Let me get him out of this mess, she begged the moon, don't let him die because of me! As if in answer, the large body of water loomed before them. The hawk informed her of a little island in the middle of the lake with a rock formation large enough to hide them out of sight. “Can you swim?” “Yes.” Jason skidded to a stop beside her. Behind them came the pounding of several paws. “Make it to the rock and stay there!” She dove into the gray-blue water. The water engulfed her, cooled her overheated skin and reinvigorated her tired limbs. She could only imagine the lethargy coursing through Jason. She smiled despite her fear as pride filled her chest. She may be mated to a human, but he was far from ordinary. If her father were still alive he would be well pleased with the match. As for her brother, Rong, he would be twice as likely to rip Jason's heart out. She reached the land in the middle of the lake and swam to the other side, raising her head out of the water with a firm grip on rock. Jason wasn't with her. Panic seized her chest. The thought of him struggling beneath the surface had her ready to dive under again. With a sputter, Jason emerged at her side and reached up to grab at the rock formation as she had done. “You're okay!” 23

Crystal-Rain Love “Of course I am.” He pulled her close to him. “Stay out of view.” She started to inform him she was well aware of how to protect both of them, but quickly changed her mind. He was a man, raised to believe he was the dominant sex, given the duty to protect. She found she really didn't mind his instinctive protection. It felt good to be cared for in a way she hadn't been since her father died. And Jason in knight-in-shining-armor mode was doing all sorts of wonderful things to her. “Here they come,” Jason whispered as the pounding of paws upon dirt grew. Ten gray wolves came to a stop along the bank of the lake, raising their noses to the air, smelling for their prey. Jason and Ming quickly moved to hide fully behind the rock. “Are you sure they can't smell us?” “They lost our scent at the water’s edge. Follow me, quietly.” She tightened her grip on the rock and slowly, carefully pulled herself up from the lake. Careful to remain behind the rock at all times, she found the cavity the hawk had told her about and crawled inside, Jason close behind her. “Tight fit.” She closed her eyes and breathed in deeply through her mouth, fighting to keep her mind from going where his words tried to lead. Save the man first, screw his brains out later. The small opening dipped down, widening at the bottom where a pool of water had formed. Small rock ledges rimmed the water hole but Ming bypassed them to sink into the pool. The waist-high water appeared clean enough. “Tell me why this is safe.” Jason settled into the pool behind her. “I feel like the proverbial sitting duck out here and we can't see where they are.” His tone held no fear, only genuine concern. Ming turned to look at him, noted his rigid stance and tight-set jaw. Combat mode if she ever saw it. She had to close her eyes and take in a breath before answering him. The take24

Moonlit Dream charge protector vibe coming off him seriously taunted her already overheated libido. “I have eyes in the sky, remember?” She grinned as he stared at her, eyebrow cocked as if to question whether a few birds were enough of a defense shield. “We're in a hole on a little strip of land in the middle of a lake, Ming. Even if the hawks warn us something is coming, we're defenseless here. There're ten wolves out there. We have a shot at picking them off.” “They're innocent animals!” “Innocent animals? They're hunting us—me—down!” “Don't speak so loud!” Ming banked down her surge of anger long enough to listen. According to the hawks, the wolves hadn't heard Jason's outburst. They'd gotten lucky. “The wolves can't smell us in here,” she explained slowly, calmly, trying to bring down the sudden tension flaring between them. “They can, however, hear us, so please don't raise your voice. They’re innocent. Animals defend their territory, generally not harming humans unless provoked, but those wolves are also familiars for Weres. We’re being tracked because they've been given an order by a more powerful predator. It's not their fault so, unless necessary, I'd prefer we don't harm them.” Jason shook his head, obviously not feeling the same way. “So are we supposed to stand in this pool until our skin wrinkles up?” “You can sit on the rock ledge. The water isn't what's saving us now. It's the fact we're down-wind. As long as they don't hear us, they'll give up soon and move on. Our worry is whether they relay the point where they lost us to the Weres.” “And then the Weres will find us here?” He pulled himself onto the rock ledge, the muscles in his arms flexing with the movement. “Most likely. I have a group of hawks watching out for them while another group searches for a new hiding space. If it even looks like the Weres are heading this way, we're out of here.” 25

Crystal-Rain Love Blue-tinged light filtered through the rock walls of their hidey-hole, highlighting the sharp angles of Jason's face. Heat suffused Ming's body, the approach of the full moon making proximity with a male nearly unbearable. And Jason was more than just a male. He was her destined mate, and she'd already enjoyed his body once in the dream realm. Her body ached to experience that pleasure again. “Are you all right?” She blinked, realizing she’d been splashing herself with water to cool down, and felt the heat of a blush creep into her face. “I'm fine.” “You going to stand in the water all night?” “It's cooler in the water.” “We're in the North Carolina mountains at night and you need to be cooler? You're going to catch a cold, or worse.” “Trust me, it's better I stay over here.” “Yeah, well, if you keep drenching yourself in water, making that shirt stick to you like a second skin, don't blame me if I can't stay over here.” She sucked in a breath as she took in the sight of him, leaning his back against the wall of their hiding spot. His body tense with restrained desire, his pupils dilated as his warm gaze caressed her intimately. If he had any qualms about her turning furry from time to time they didn't seem to bother him now. “Jason.” “I know.” He closed his eyes and leaned his head against the wall. “Wrong time, wrong place. Hell, Ming. I might not even survive this moonwhatever.” “Moon phase. And you will survive. I'll see to it my pack doesn't harm you.” Even if I have to die to get you out of here. He stared at her, a humorless grin on his lips. “I've come to accept the fact that bad things happen to me, no matter what I do.” Ming's heart constricted as sadness filled her mate's eyes, momentarily tamping down her desire. “What happened to you, Jason? How did you end up in prison?” 26

Moonlit Dream A spark of anger coursed through his green eyes but quickly disappeared, followed by molten heat. He sank down into the water, stepping before her. “Does it matter? I'm out now.” He wrapped his arms around her waist, pulling her close. Her breath caught in her throat as he dipped his head to the hollow of her neck, but she recognized the maneuver for what it was. “Why do you avoid answering me? This isn't the first time I've asked the question.” “There are so many more pleasurable things we could be doing instead of answering questions.” He accentuated the statement by running his tongue up the side of her neck, and catching her earlobe between his lips. Ming gasped, the near-arrival of the full moon heightened her senses. The light touch of Jason's mouth on her ear caused a million little flutterings in her womb, but she forced herself to resist him. She wanted him more than she wanted to breathe, but he was hiding something from her. She wouldn't allow him to make love to her only to avoid answering a question. “Tell me!” She shoved him away, all of her will power spent on the move. “I've told you my secret. I've shown you what I am. Now tell me the truth, Jason. What were you arrested for?” He narrowed his eyes, clearly aggravated, and stepped back. “Fine. You want to know why I was in prison, what I was arrested for?” “Yes.” “Murder. I killed a man with my bare hands, Ming. I'm a murderer.”

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Chapter Four “You killed in self defense.” Jason stared at the petite, dark-haired beauty before him and struggled not to laugh. Almost funny, the intensity in her eyes as she gazed back at him, searching his expression for an agreement to her statement. In fact, the determination in her tone, the stark unconditional belief, the unbreakable faith inflicted in that beautiful husky voice…it would have been hysterical if not for the fact that her high opinion of him touched him in places where he didn't think he could feel anything anymore. Places he didn't want to feel. “Jason?” He tossed around the idea of lying to her, hated the thought of seeing her look at him in shame, but he despised lies. It was because of lies he'd never known his real father, because of lies he'd believed it was safe to leave his mother with his stepfather. “It wasn't self defense, Ming. I killed a man, plain and simple, beat him until his body was beyond repair. I understand if you're disgusted by that. Hell, I'm disgusted by it, and I'm the one who did it.” “I'm sure you had reason.” “Hell yeah, I had reason, there's a reason for everything. Having a reason doesn't make doing something right.” Sadness entered her eyes as her full lips turned down at the corners. 28

Moonlit Dream Great. A moment ago he could have sworn he'd smelled arousal coming off her in waves. She'd been rinsing her body with water as though it were a raging inferno. Now...he'd turned her ice cold. Wonderful. “Jason—” “Save it, Ming.” Ugh, the disappointment in her tone, laced with the slightest touch of pity, sucker-punched him in the gut. Why hadn't he just lied? “Validation for my actions from ten years ago doesn't really matter now.” “You should talk about it.” “You should drop it.” Her eyes watered as her face fell. He'd hurt her. Fantastic. All she wanted to do was understand him, probably try to help him. It wasn't her fault he was too damaged for repair. “Ming—” “Your wounds!” He opened his eyes at Ming's cry and found her a breath away, touching his chest lightly with her fingertips. Fresh, red blood seeped through his light gray T-shirt. “You probably caused further damage by climbing up the rocks, or while we ran. I should have tended to these sooner.” Geez, did he hear guilt in her tone? “I'm not a little kid, Ming. My injuries aren't your responsibility to fix.” “You helped me.” “I extracted a bullet from your side. You did the rest. I'll be fine.” “Let me help you.” He laughed and made a show of scanning the small hideaway. “Where's the medical kit? We don't even have band-aids, and I can't shift form to instantly repair myself like you did.” He gently removed her hands from his chest, her light touch over-stimulating nerve endings he'd never before realized he had. “They'll scab over and heal in due time.” “They're too deep,” she argued, “and they'll continue to reopen until you bleed to death. Let me help you.” “Fine,” he threw his hands in the air. “Knock yourself out.” 29

Crystal-Rain Love “Close your eyes.” His eyes remained open, but narrowed. “Why?” Ming bit her lip and grabbed the hem of his T-shirt. He helped her to get the material over his head and watched her take a deep breath as she studied his injured chest. Her tongue briefly darted out to wet her lips before she met his gaze. “Please.” Her request so soft-spoken, so delicate and pleading, he threw caution to the wind and did as she requested. She was a Werewolf, and his gut told him something highly unusual was about to happen but common sense took leave. He had to have faith in his instincts, and instinct told him this little beauty would never raise a hand, or a paw, to hurt him. Something soft and wet touched his chest and he opened his eyes in surprise. He looked down and saw Ming's dark head close to his body. Her head slowly moved to the side and her silky tongue rolled over his skin, cleaning the blood from the places where claws had sunk into his chest. Was she preparing to eat him? He started to jerk back, but froze when he noticed the skin her tongue had recently touched began to knit back together. She was healing him with her saliva. Oblivious to his close attention, she continued to work, gliding her wet, pink tongue along each claw mark, cleaning away the blood to mend what was left behind. It was disgusting. Yet, as her head dipped lower and her tongue teased his abdomen, his body filled with heat. His groin throbbed painfully. He'd never been more aroused. She reached the end of the last claw mark, her face low enough on him she had no choice but to notice the erection straining against his wet jeans. She licked the last injured piece of flesh, pulled that delicate little tongue back into her mouth and looked up, her eyes widening as she jumped back. “You weren't supposed to watch!” Her pale cheeks turned a warm shade of pink and she averted her gaze. “I know it looks gross, but my saliva—” 30

Moonlit Dream He grabbed her gently rounded hips and pulled her tight to his body. Jason ground his erection against her while his mouth brutally assaulted hers, his hungry tongue forcing her lips to open to his invasion. The feat wasn't hard at all as a gasp opened her mouth wide, giving him easy access. He tasted his own blood in her mouth and despite knowing what the coppery-tasting substance altering her saliva was, he drank greedily, the strangeness of her flavor increasing his need for her. He drank his fill and lowered his head, gently nipping at her jaw and neck as he moved his mouth down her body. A frustrated growl erupted from his throat as his mouth met with fabric, and her rib-knit sweater was quickly ripped away from her body to reveal two perfectly round mounds encased in a thin scrap of white material. A sports bra. The material was thin enough for him to see two dusky-colored circles in the glow of the pale moonlight filling their little sanctuary. He pulled one into his mouth through the fabric, suckled the little nub until Ming cried out. Her fingernails dug into his shoulders, breaking through skin, and he wondered if she'd heal those marks, too. The thought fueled his fevered desire, and he quickly removed the sports bra from Ming's perfectly sculpted body. Her breasts fell free, and he licked his suddenly dry lips, thinking of all the things he could do with those creamy pale globes. Ming crushed her mouth to his, pressing her breasts against his chest. The hardened peaks of her nipples brushed his skin, lighting a fire so hot he felt as though his entire body would ignite if he suffered the teasing any longer. He detached his lips from hers, filling them with the breast he hadn't sampled yet. She moaned as he licked the underside of one mound while gently tweaking the tip of the other one with his shaking fingers. His entire body shook, his restraint dangerously low. He needed to be inside her. Now. She reached down and unsnapped his jeans. The pressure of his erection sent the zipper sliding down, and he sprang free, large and proud. And more than ready. 31

Crystal-Rain Love He tugged at the snap of her jeans, his shaking fingers fumbling with the small button before she unfastened them herself. Jason picked her up and gasped as she wrapped her legs around his waist. The contact stole the air from his lungs. “Let's find a dry spot, shall we?” He carried her the short distance to a large rock and pressed her back against it. She gasped, and he winced knowing he'd hurt her delicate skin. “Sorry, darlin'.” He lowered her to the ground and turned her around. “Grab hold of the rock.” He pulled down her jeans and the little scrap of lacy, blue material blocking him from carnal paradise. Her ass was perfect, high, round and full. He grabbed a handful and roughly kneaded, sucking in air. Ming moaned, arching her back to further press her rear against his hands. Jason bent down and traced the length of her spine with his tongue, loving the way she trembled from the sensation. “You want this, right?” He reached the nape of her neck. He'd die if she said no, but he had to have permission first. Ming widened her stance and turned her head to look back at him, her eyes burning red. “I'll kill you with my own claws if you stop now.” He swallowed hard, the ferocity in her voice and the lethal glow in her eyes nearly caused him to burst. This was the baddest woman he'd ever met. “Hold on tight.” He jerked his jeans down in one motion and smoothly entered her wet and ready body from behind. He ground his teeth together as he sank inside her, every inch of tight skin gripping his shaft, making it harder for him not to explode then and there. But that couldn't happen, not until he made her howl. “Damn, woman, you feel so good,” he said between clenched teeth as he moved back and forth inside her, struggling to remain gentle. He realized he was doggy-styling a wolf and almost laughed, but the pleasure coursing through his body made laughter impossible at that second. This was serious. Ming pressed her ass against him, urging him deeper. “Don't be gentle 32

Moonlit Dream with me, Jason. I can take it.” Oh, hell yeah. He grabbed her shoulders and rammed in hard, growling low in his throat as a thousand sensations spread from his shaft to the rest of his body. He pounded, and she pressed against him, taking every thrust with ease, panting in satisfaction. His body shook with pleasure, his vision clouded as euphoria settled in. He couldn't last much longer. Reaching around, he grabbed her breasts in his hands and played with the hard peaks until she started breathing so fast and hard, he feared she'd hyperventilate. Jason lowered his hand down her tight, firm abdomen until he reached the tiny little nub where his body currently filled her and teased the sensitive outer side with his fingers until she screamed her release. Satisfied he'd taken care of her, he allowed himself to let go and explode. Blinding color shot through his head as a million rays of pleasure burst inside his body, and he heard an earth-shaking howl. But for the life of him, he couldn't tell if it was him or her. He collapsed against her, his jaw resting on her sweat-soaked shoulder blade as his seed poured into her. He waited until the pumping stopped and slowly withdrew. He barely managed the task of pulling his jeans back up before kissing her shoulder, and pulling her around to face him. Her breasts were proud and firm, her eyes glazed with satisfaction as they resumed their natural amber color. He had to close his own eyes to keep from starting all over again. Jason heard the sound of her zipper being raised and the low rustle of fabric against skin. Then her soft fingers trailed the side of his face. He opened his eyes and found her standing in fastened jeans, her beautiful breasts bound by the sports bra. She smiled at him, looking like the cat that got the cream, not a wolf. Still, he knew he'd been rough. He pressed a soft kiss to her plump lips and tucked her long hair behind a small, delicate ear. “Are you all right, baby?” Baby? Shit! 33

Crystal-Rain Love “Oh, hell, Ming. Tell me you're on birth control!” She frowned, her eyes lost the look of utter contentment they'd held a second before. “That would defeat the purpose of the moon cycle, Jason.” He blinked, then stared at her, wondering what the hell she was talking about. “The moon cycle? I don't give a damn about the moon cycle, Ming! I can't have a kid!” She winced as if struck, and guilt wracked his conscience, dragging him out of the near-nirvana state he'd been in. But it didn't matter if she was in heat and her pack number was low. He couldn't give her a baby. “Is that all you're going to do? Ask me about birth control?” Her lower lip actually trembled. “Don't you want to…say something?” “Say something?” He stared at her, took in the trembling lip and watery eyes. What the hell was going on inside her head? He was worried about an unplanned pregnancy and she wanted…what? Poetry? “I don't know how your pack does things, but in my world babies are huge responsibilities. And if we just made one, we're screwed! I'm a damned ex-convict, Ming! How am I supposed to provide for a baby? I haven't even been out for—” How long had he been out? He thought hard, trying to remember. He remembered the dank, musty-smelling cell he'd spent ten years in, remembered the prison fights and the nasty food. The despair and hopelessness that scented the air along with sweat and urine. When the hell had he escaped that? How did he get here? He came to the woods with a small group of hunters and then he'd come across the Werewolves, but…he couldn't remember what happened before meeting the hunters. “Jason.” He waved Ming off. Something wasn't right. He'd been arrested for murder in Texas, the most electric-chair happy state in America. He was never supposed to get out of prison. “Jason, please.” “Silence!” He thought back hard. He remembered the cell, remembered 34

Moonlit Dream getting into a fight with a new inmate. The man had approached him in the showers, tried to touch him…he'd beat the hell out of the guy and ended up in solitary. Nothing else. He didn't remember getting out of that dark hole. He didn't remember walking away from the prison, traveling across states all the way to North Carolina. But he knew these woods, had been here before, with her…with this beautiful black wolf. He'd visited this place before time and again in his dreams. And he was dreaming now, in that dark little hole they'd thrown him in after he'd stomped the hell out of that man in the showers. He looked at Ming, read the fear in her wide, glossy eyes, in the way she swallowed hard. But this wasn't a dream. He couldn't have felt that much sexual pleasure in a dream. “What the hell is going on here, Ming?”

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Crystal-Rain Love

Chapter Five Ming's heart lurched in her chest, and she found the simple act of swallowing extremely difficult. How was she supposed to explain this magical realm where reality and dream became hazy? Did it really matter now? She looked away, blinked hard to suppress the tears threatening to fall. He hadn't said the words. He'd mated with her, ferociously like a true Were, took her to great heights of erotic pleasure but he hadn't said the damn words. He'd been too busy worrying about impregnating her, as if that were a bad thing. “Ming, I asked you a question.” She looked at him, noted the blazing ire in his eyes. The anger there made them glitter like dark emeralds. His nostrils flared, his lips thinned. He looked like a warrior, a pack leader…but he would never become one if he didn't make the vow. He would never truly be hers, and she would never be free of Rong. “Ming.” “I heard you.” She pinned him with a hard glare, angry that she didn't have the right to be mad. The moon vow couldn't be forced or even taught. It came natural, was ripped from one's heart by sheer force. If he didn't truly love her there was nothing to be done about it, but… Hope flared to life. The moon cycle wasn't over yet. He could still make 36

Moonlit Dream the vow to her. “Where am I, Ming?” His gaze on her was lethal, his eyes steadily grew darker. “I'm supposed to be in solitary confinement, but I'm in the woods with you. And this shit isn't a dream!” His voice rose with the last statement. “I don't know what the hell this is, but it is way too real to be a dream!” “It's real,” Ming forced her tone to come out cool and neutral. If there was any chance of getting her vow, or more importantly—getting Jason out alive—it was imperative he believed the situation they were in was real. For the most part, it was. They could both die in this realm, and they really were being chased. She received a frenzied report through her mental link with the hawks. The gray wolves had left the immediate area but a trio of Weres assigned to search for them were headed in their direction. “Weres are coming this way. We have to move.” She dealt Jason a hard look, warning him now was not the time for standing around discussing how he'd gotten into the woods. She grabbed an edge of jagged rock, trusting he'd follow behind. “What about the regular wolves?” His voice came from close behind her as she cleared the hole leading to the open night. “They're back in the woods trying to find us.” Her skin warmed as she said a silent thanks that they'd not been lingering around when she'd screamed as loud as her lungs had allowed. It had been a stupid move on her part, but completely beyond her control. “Where are we going now?” They sank into the lake once more, and Ming was keenly aware of Jason's shirtless state. He'd apparently chosen to leave the tattered T-shirt behind. “We're following the hawks. They'll find us somewhere safe to rest by morning. Hurry to the ground over there.” She nodded her head toward the direction she wanted him to go and took off at a quick swim, anxious to get away from the lake. According to the 37

Crystal-Rain Love hawks, the familiars had relayed to the Weres the location they'd lost them. It was no coincidence their trackers were headed toward the lake. Unlike the familiars, they would investigate the little island. Ming rose from the water and planted her booted feet firmly on the ground. She wrung the moisture out of her hair and looked toward the sky for direction. A hawk flew overhead in circles, subtly moving in the direction they were to follow. “Where to?” She glanced back at Jason and studied a bead of water as it trailed down the finely chiseled muscles of his chest to disappear into the waistband of his jeans. It took every ounce of willpower she had not to go in after it. “Follow me.” She took off at a quick pace, focusing solely on the hawk flying above to keep her mind off the pain in her heart. “You didn't answer my question, Ming.” So much for focusing solely on the hawk. She let out a sigh of frustration but didn't feel any better for it. “The Weres will be prowling all night, in between mating and pack-fighting.” She didn't look back, half afraid she'd be tempted to stand still and ogle the perfection of Jason's naked torso, which wouldn't help them to outrun the Weres. “We'll have to keep moving in order to avoid being found, unless my forest friends find a safe place to hide. Even if they do, it'd be best if we didn't sleep until morning, when the Weres are resting from all the nighttime activities they partake in during the week of the moon cycle.” She overstepped a fallen tree branch along the narrow trail they traveled and pointed toward the thatch of green, three-leafed plants twisting around a tree to their right. “That's Poison Oak. Be careful.” “Why? My body is in a cell.” Ming whipped around and planted her fists firmly on her hips. “Anything that harms your body here will harm your body there.” His eyes widened, but to his credit he didn't make any sounds of worry or alarm. He did step away from the Poison Oak. 38

Moonlit Dream “Tell me the truth. What's going on? How can I be here and there at the same time?” “Does it matter?” “When my life is on the line, yes. Is my life on the line?” Tell him it's all a dream so he'll feel better. Ming jerked as Rong's taunting voice entered her head, followed by a hearty chuckle. Get out of my head, you freak. This isn't fair. Now, now, sister dear. Don't speak to your twin like that. I'm your closest relative. Ming balled her hands into fists at her side, blinking back hot tears of anger. You're the only relative I have now that you’ve killed our father. It had to be done. His tone all business, not a trace of remorse filtered through the mind link. Ming's stomach turned over. You're an animal. You, me, and the rest of the pack, or have you forgotten what we are? I'll never let the wolf take my humanity. “Ming, are you all right?” She blinked, breaking the watery film over her eyes to see Jason looking down at her with worried eyes, his mouth pulled into a frown. He wiped a warm tear away from her face with a soft thumb, and her breath hitched. The hawk screeched above her, urging her to get moving again and she was pulled from the trance she'd started to go under. “We have to keep moving.” Yes, Ming. Run. It's so much more fun to catch prey when it runs. Screw you! she mentally threw back at Rong, and planted her feet firmly on the ground. She would not let him cause her to panic. Tsk, tsk. What a foul thing to say to your brother. Are you upset the man of your dreams mated with you and didn't give you a vow? She gasped, her very bones chilled from the fear icing over her body. 39

Crystal-Rain Love “How could you possibly know that?” “Know what?” Jason asked, deep frown lines etched into his face as he peered down at her. Ming shook her head and opened her mouth to respond but the deep timbre of Rong's laugh rang through her head. I'm your twin. I feel what you feel, and what you felt earlier…I wouldn't be surprised if the whole pack picked up on the vibe. Unfortunately, all that carnal bliss turned into sadness. I wonder why. Ming closed her eyes, tuning out Jason. He was saying something to her, trying to figure out what was wrong, but she couldn't listen to him and Rong at the same time. Nor could she listen to the hawk screeching above her. Just leave him alone, Rong. Let him go. No, Ming. That wasn't the deal. You said you'd met your soul mate and all you needed was the chance to mate with him in a physical realm. You begged me to spare you from the breeding requirements of the pack females. I promised you your freedom if he gave you the vow. He hasn't, so once I catch you, you're staying with us and he…he will be my personal meal. No, Rong! That was the agreement, sister. I never promised his safety. You were the one who brought him here, you and your childish wishes. No! Ming shook her head despite Rong not being there to see it. I didn't ask for this! I didn't ask for you to hunt him down like this! Oh, now, don't worry. I'm sure your little jailbird knows how to defend himself. He did, after all, tear off one of my wolf’s muzzles. Rong’s last few words dripped with venom. If you had any decency in you at all, you wouldn’t do this, Rong. If you were half the wolf I am, you wouldn’t be so weak. Loving someone doesn’t make you weak, or any less of a wolf. We’re supposed to mate for life. Rong let out a hearty laugh. Unfortunately for you, your mate doesn’t seem to want to. 40

Moonlit Dream She took in a deep breath, willing herself not to cry. Surely, the evil man who used to be her best friend would pick up on her desperate uncertainty if she did. The cycle isn’t over yet. I can still get a moon vow. When? While the moon is at its fullest? Only the strongest matches are made then and you, dear sister, do not really think a convicted felon is worthy of such a match. Or you? You don’t even want to help your pack. His words were laced with condescension, his tone bordered on pity. My poor sister, I should kill you now and spare you the agony your mate’s rejection will cause when the cycle is over and he leaves you with no vow. Ming ground her teeth together, refusing to let him bait her. I could get it tonight. I doubt that, came her brother’s amused reply. I plan to kill your man tonight to make sure it doesn’t happen.

~~~ Ming stood stock-still, her head tilted to the side and her facial expression alternated between blank, angry, sad and scared. Jason had said her name ten times, waved his hand in her face, done everything but haul off and smack her, yet she didn't budge. It was the same way she looked when she spoke with the hawks, but judging by the way the hawks, plural—there were three of them now—screeched and turned in frantic circles above them, desperate to gain her attention, he didn't think she was speaking to them. No, she had to be speaking to her brother, the man she said she had a special link with and now he knew what it was. The bastard could get in her head. “Ming, dammit, I think something's coming!” No response. Shit. The sense of approaching danger grew stronger as the hawks' frantic cries increased in volume. The damned things were going to lead the 41

Crystal-Rain Love Werewolves right to them if they didn't get moving. Or maybe the Weres already knew where to find them, Jason thought with a sick feeling in his gut. If Ming had a mental link with her brother, the pack leader might have some sort of homing ability, too. Hell, he was probably locked in to their location and leading his wolves straight to them like a GPS. That was it. Jason tossed Ming over his shoulder and took off at a fast clip, not giving a damn whether he ran straight through Poison Oak or not. She let out a soft, surprised cry as her middle hit his shoulder blade and started to push off. Jason smacked her rear good and hard, preventing her from wriggling free while he—hopefully—raced them to safety. He might not be able to speak to the hawks, but he could follow them. “Put me down!” “Why, so you can stand there like a statue and get us killed?” He didn't bother to restrain his irritation. He could worry about his level of politeness when the hounds of hell weren't hot on his heels. “I'm sorry.” Her apology sounded genuine, but still he held on to her. “I can't take a risk of you doing it again, sweetheart, not when our lives are on the line. Were you talking to your brother?” “Yes, how did you know?” “I think I'm getting the hang of all this mystical Werewolf crap.” He whipped around a large Oak and jumped over a log. “You two have some special telepathic bond, I presume?” “Yes, I'm sorry. He was tripping me up, trying to upset me. Let me down so we can run faster!” The hawks cried out above them and Jason glanced up. Unease gnawed at his gut, but he didn't want to risk losing more time if Ming went into another trance-like conversation with her brother. He took his eyes off the birds soaring overhead to see where he was going and skidded to a stop as his gaze connected with a large tree standing in his way. “Shit!” “You can't watch the hawks and where we're going, too,” Ming said 42

Moonlit Dream firmly. “Put me down so I can lead the way. They're gaining on us!” Jason groaned, the split second he had to decide seemed less than that, but he knew when to lead and when to follow. “You're right,” he conceded as he lowered Ming to the ground. “But if you spazz out on me again—” “I won't.” Her assurance came out between clenched teeth as she sniffed the air, her head cocked to the side to receive instructions from the hawks. Her eyes widened as she gripped Jason's bicep and turned him to the right. “Run, now!” He didn't need any more prodding. When a Werewolf's eyes went wide with fear, common sense said whatever was after you wasn't anything to joke about. They took off, trampling through the forest as fast as they could maneuver. Jason whipped out the silver blade he'd kept tucked into his belt loop and slashed at the foliage impeding their path as they reached a section of woods that hadn't been traveled enough for paths to be developed. All the while he physically felt Ming's growing fear. He would have wondered at the oddity, but his own fear kept his mind busy with what-ifs. What if they were caught? What if he couldn't protect her? What if he had to lose another woman he loved? Hold up. Loved? Where the hell did that come from? He tripped over a rock, the thought temporarily blinding him. Sure, Ming was his dream woman—in the literal sense of the title—but love? This soon? A new fear clawed at him as his palms hit the hard floor of the earth. No way in hell was he falling in love with a woman who lived among wolves. He couldn't protect his mother from a drunken waste of flesh, how could he possibly protect this woman from creatures who weren't even human? “Jason!” Ming skidded to a stop and turned back for him, but he brushed away her helping hand, embarrassment darkening his attitude. He couldn't even run and think at the same time. “I'm fine.” He rose and started running again, refusing to look at her. 43

Crystal-Rain Love What the hell was he going to do about this mess? They ran through the woods, twisting and turning to avoid the various obstacles which seemed to multiply the further they trekked, until a deafening cry from above brought Ming to a dead halt. Jason let out an oomph as he ran straight into her back. “What is it?” he managed to say while trying to re-catch the breath that had just been knocked out of him. “We're surrounded on all sides,” Ming whispered, her eyes darting side to side. “What? What do we do now?” Jason struggled to keep his voice low as panic filled his body and tried to leave through a scream. Images of watching Ming being ripped apart while he helplessly stood there invaded his mind, taunting him with his inadequacy. A rustle in the bushes to their left caused both of them to spin their heads in that direction. They both sucked in air in a collective gasp. Ming turned toward him, her eyes turning that rare shade of crimson. “Now, we hide and hope we can pick them off two at a time instead of them all barging in from different directions at once.”

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Moonlit Dream

Chapter Six How the hell did I let this happen? Ming stood with her back pressed against a large Oak and silently berated herself while listening for the soft sounds of skulking Weres. Rong had tricked her, captured her attention long enough to allow his Weres to close in. He'd used her emotions against her, cleverly kept her concentration so she'd block out the hawks' frantic calls, knowing they'd grow loud enough to give any Were in range a way to pinpoint her location and form a circle around her, setting a trap she'd be lucky to get out of alive. He'd baited her, the filthy monster. He'd caused her to put Jason smack dab in the middle of harm's way. Hell, she was practically about to serve Jason's head on a platter. She glanced to her right and took in the man standing with his back pressed against a tree, his hand tightly wrapped around the hilt of a silver blade held close to his side. He wasn't a pretty man, much too rugged for that particular description, with far too much masculinity oozing from his pores and a hardness in his eyes which spoke volumes. But standing there in the glow of soft blue moonlight, his jaw set in determination and his grip a steel vice around the weapon, ready to fight despite the fear given away by the rapid pulse beating at the base of his 45

Crystal-Rain Love throat, he was absolutely, breathtakingly beautiful. I won't let you die, even if protecting you means my own demise. A whisper of grass to her left indicated they'd be hit from that side first, and Ming braced herself, willing her own heartbeat to slow down so she could hear clearly over it. They were too close for her to speak to Jason, and a hundred worries filtered through her mind. She should have told him how to fight a Were. Wait a minute. She'd spoken to him telepathically when she was in wolf form. Maybe… Can you hear me? Jason's eyes widened and jerked to hers. I'll take that as a yes. She added a silent thanks as relief engulfed her body. His lips parted, and Ming quickly shook her head. Don't speak out loud! They're close enough to hear. He nodded, a bare jerk of his dark head. They're going to hit us from the left first. The blade you carry can hurt them, but because of the full moon approaching, they are strong. They're pumped up on adrenaline and won't go down easily. Go for the throat, heart and eyes, no matter which form they use to come at you. Don't let go of that knife, and don't cut me with it if I happen to shift! He narrowed his green eyes as if offended she would suggest he'd do something so absurd, but nodded. And if you find the opportunity to use it to your advantage, that little telekinesis trick of yours would come in pretty handy. He lowered his eyes and looked ahead of him, avoiding her gaze, his throat working on a heavy swallow. He looked almost…ashamed? What was up with that? Ming decided to use one of the last spare seconds they had to ask him, but the idea quickly went south as she picked up on rustling to her right. Aw, hell. This was so not good. The snap of a twig to her left added to her growing anxiety. She braced herself for attack and sent Jason one last 46

Moonlit Dream warning. I sense two on my left, you have one coming in from the right. Wait for him to reach the tree and attack. I got these bitches over here.

~~~ Jason sucked in a steadying breath and tightened his grip around the blade, stilling his body. He'd fought monsters before. Murderers, rapists and child abusers. They might have claws and big nasty teeth, but the beasts closing in on him now couldn't be worse than the animals he'd fought in prison. Or at least he told himself that to keep from screaming. Suck it up, man. Ming's going against two on her own. You have to cut down this bastard and help her out! A bush rustled to the right and back of him, indicating the Were's proximity. Ming said to wait for the beast to reach the tree, so he pressed his back more firmly against it, keeping himself out of view. He risked a glance to the left and noticed Ming also tensed, her back ram-rod straight against the tree she hid behind. Ready to spring. Against two of them. Damn, he wished he was the one going against two and not her. They've stilled, she said in his mind. They're going to spring from both sides at once. They smell us, but don't know exactly where we're hidden. Use the element of surprise! And please, Jason, focus on your own Were and quit looking at me! He blinked and quickly jerked his head around, feeling like he'd been caught with his hand in the cookie jar. The woman had eyes in the back of her head, or apparently she could sense him as well as her own kind. She was right though. He'd be no help to her if he got himself killed watching her instead of fighting off his attacker. Then she'd be alone against three of them. Dead quiet fell over the area, not even the wind dared to blow against a leaf, and he felt it in his bones, the Weres were a heartbeat away from 47

Crystal-Rain Love pouncing. The strangest sensation washed over him, the need to tell Ming he loved her. Words he would have never thought of on his own invaded his being, but he pushed the yearning aside. He wasn't going to tell her he loved her as if he'd never have the chance again. No, he'd make damn sure he survived this fight if only to protect her in other battles. That's right, he told himself mentally, pumping himself up. You want a fight to the death, bastards? I got something for ya. As though he'd heard the mental taunt, the Were crept out of the bushes, his feet crunching over the rocks scattered on the ground. Feet, not paws. If the Were had been in wolf form, Jason would have heard four distinctive steps instead of two. He could hear the others coming out on the other side of the small clearing and was thankful they'd all stepped out before the trees he and Ming were using for cover and not directly at their sides. Another step taken by his Were, another couple by Ming's. Jason willed his heartbeat to slow to its normal rate and freed his mind of doubt. He only allowed one word to fill the space. Destroy. He heard quick movement and glanced to where Ming was standing only to see a lone tree. She'd made her move and judging by the growls he heard a heartbeat later, was in full battle. His Were's feet came down hard on the ground. The damned animal was running toward her! Jason spun around the Oak and launched himself at the large, darkhaired man passing his tree. He caught the Were off-guard and sank the full length of the silver blade into the man’s back. Jason spared a glance toward Ming as his assigned target let out a gutchurning howl of pain and fell to his knees on the forest floor. Three wolves fought with teeth and claws. Ming’s sleek black form avoided the advance of one of her brown opponents, and her teeth sank into the other's neck, ripping out a chunk of flesh, spraying blood on the ground. Jason was hit with extreme pain in his chest and flew backward to land hard on his back. He'd taken his eyes off his Were a second too long. 48

Moonlit Dream He refused to let the pain set in and quickly jumped to his feet to face the approaching Were who'd just kicked the hell out of him. The man was six feet plus of brawn and murderous intent. His eyes blazed red. Jason braced his feet on the ground and tightened his hand around...oh, hell. The blade was in the Were's back! The same Were who’d just decided to come at him in a full run. With only a second to avoid imminent death, Jason improvised and fell hard on his rump as the beast reached him. He grabbed a stick and quickly spun with his legs out, catching his large attacker behind the knees and dropping him to the ground. Determined to put the Were out of commission before he could recover from the unexpected fall, Jason covered him and sank the stick under the Were's ribcage, pushing upward at an angle to puncture its heart. The Were bellowed in pain and grabbed Jason by the throat. “I'm not a vampire,” he growled as he rose from the ground, yanked out the stick, and dangled Jason like a rag doll, his feet two inches from the ground. Jason stared into the beast's blood-red eyes and started to panic. Ming had said heart, throat and eyes. She'd also said to keep the damned blade! Dammit, he needed to sink the silver blade into the Were's heart, not a stupid stick! He couldn't see the blade so he focused on where it should be and tried to pull it to him with his mind. Nothing happened. The Were held him tight, choking off his air supply, but the arm holding him trembled. The knife! Jason remembered Ming’s weakened state when she'd saved him from the trio of familiars, because of the silver bullet. The Were holding him wasn't at full strength…and he couldn't shift. Good news. The bad news was that the snarling Were in question was opening his mouth wide to take a bite out of him, regardless of his human form. “Oh, hell no! You're not getting this white meat, bitch!” Jason swung his leg out. His foot connected with the Were's groin and sent the beast to his knees, howling in pain once more. “Eyes, heart and throat, my ass. You 49

Crystal-Rain Love wanna take a man down, always go for the balls.” He gave the sensitive area another good kick and yanked the blade out of the Were's back as he crumpled forward. He was poised and ready when the Were recovered and lunged for him. Jason sliced the blade across its throat as it tried to shift shape in mid-air, killing it instantly. “Okay, so throat works, too,” he admitted and started to turn toward Ming. Before he could complete the turn, a wolf jumped on his back, its massive jaws open to deliver a death bite. Jason flipped it over his head, crying out as sharp claws ripped his shoulders to shreds, but didn't pause for a second. He'd learned the hard way to never give the beasts a second wind. The moment the wolf's body hit the ground Jason stood over it. This time he sliced the throat and punctured the heart for good measure. He jerked backward in surprise as the wolf transformed into a large, blond man. The man's lifeless blue eyes stared up at him, bringing back the bitter reminder of what he'd done to land in prison. Soft clapping behind him snagged his attention and he turned to see a virtually unscratched Ming, hip propped against a large Birch, applauding him. At her feet lay six dead men. “You did all that yourself?” He nodded toward the scattered bodies, surprised and a little awed. “What? These mutts?” Ming kicked one of the bodies with the toe of her boot and shrugged. “I thought you knew who I was, Jason.” “And who is that?” he asked, stepping across the clearing to get closer to her devilish smile. “The baddest bitch to ever howl at the moon.” She let out a throaty chuckle that stroked him better than a physical hand and pushed away from the tree. “Come on. Standing here in the moonlight covered in scratches and blood is turning me on, and we need to find a safe place to hide before I start licking your wounds.” 50

Moonlit Dream Jason trembled with anticipation at the thought, remembering what had happened the last time she'd put her tongue on his body and followed behind her. They'd barely left the clearing when an enraged howl rent the air. They froze instantly, and the chill of ice crept up Jason's body. “Is that who I'm afraid it is?” “Rong,” Ming answered. “The pack leader has a bond with his pack, can feel the energy of each member. He knows we just killed eight of his men.” She glanced back at Jason, her eyes wide. “The next Weres he sends after us won't be half as easy to kill.”

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Crystal-Rain Love

Chapter Seven Jason glanced over at Ming's sleeping form, and a sigh of regret whispered past his lips. He had to leave her. The hawks had guided them to a small cave just as the sun kissed the sky. Once inside, Ming had healed his wounds, rolling her velvety-smooth tongue over his skin. The action revved him up more the second time than the first, and they went at it like bunnies in springtime. Again. They hadn't used any protection. Again. He'd been too blitzed on desire to care. Again. It'd been awesome. Then she'd started going on about how hot he was fighting the Weres, how badly he'd turned her on when he'd flipped the wolf over his head...and he'd felt more ashamed than he'd ever felt in his life. He'd taken out two Werewolves in the same amount of time she'd killed six. Now her brother would send more, this time stronger than the last. She'd do better to escape them on her own. He carefully pulled himself to a stand, making as little sound as possible. They'd slept most of the day and night would be upon them soon. If he left now, wandered around on his own, the Weres would probably find him in a few hours. While they focused on attacking him, Ming could make her escape. If they killed him…well, it wasn't like he was ever supposed to get out of prison 52

Moonlit Dream anyway. With one last glance at the most beautiful woman he'd ever seen in his life, Jason fought the urge to lie down next to her and stepped out of the cave. “You're going to leave me here without so much as a 'Later, babe, thanks for the screw?'” Jason closed his eyes, gritted his teeth then turned. Ming sat in the cave with her knees pulled to her chest, her soulful amber eyes glistening with disappointment. “I thought you were sleeping.” “I thought you cared about me, or at the very least, respected me.” He closed his eyes to hide the torture they surely showed as heat climbed his neck to enter his cheeks. He was ashamed enough already. He really didn't need another dose of guilt heaped on. “I respect you more than I've ever respected anyone. That's why I don't want to stay with you and add to the danger you're in.” “And that danger is supposed to leave me when you're gone? Whether or not you're with me, I'm not going back to the pack to be a breeding whore!” The vehemence in her tone caused his eyes to snap open. She stood with her hands tightly fisted at her hips. Her chest rose and fell with each angry breath. Jason’s attention was drawn to the perfect mounds barely hidden by the thin white cotton of her sports bra. Beautiful, strong, courageous…everything he'd ever wanted in a woman. His chest constricted, air caught in his lungs. The thought of leaving her physically hurt, but allowing her to be captured and forced to become something she clearly despised would destroy him mind, body and soul. He had to leave and give her the chance to escape on her own. “Jason, you are not going to sacrifice yourself for me!” He stepped back, surprised by her accurate assessment. “Are you reading my mind now? Another Werewolf ability? If so, stay out of it!” “No, I'm not and I don't have to read your mind, Jason. Your intentions are right there in your eyes. The guilt and shame I also see there is so strong I 53

Crystal-Rain Love want to cry when I look at you.” She stepped closer until she stood at the mouth of the cave with him and touched her fingertips to his jaw. The gentle touch sent warmth to his battered soul. “What happened to make you doubt yourself so much?” Embarrassed that she felt the need to console him like some wounded child, he jerked his head away and spun on his heel. “Forget me, Ming.” With that terse command, he walked away. “How do you expect to leave here when you don't even know what realm you're in?” He stopped. He really didn't expect he'd make it out of the woods alive, but he'd still like a fair shot. That certainly wouldn't be achieved without knowing where he was. “Where am I?” “I won't have this discussion while talking to your back.” He turned slowly, the act of leaving her harder every time he had to look into her slanted amber eyes, the shape and color so damn hypnotizingly beautiful. Forget teeth and claws. Those eyes were her real weapons, and they were shredding him to pieces. “Answer me now. Where am I?” She glanced toward the ground and released a deep breath before raising her chin defiantly, new determination in her eyes. “I'll tell you what you need to know when you tell me what I need to know.” “You don't need to know anything,” he bit out, irritation burning inside his chest. “What's happened in my past is done with and none of your concern.” “Everything about you is my concern. Why else do you think I met you so many times on the astral plane? We were designed for each other.” He shook his head, baffled. “What is that supposed to mean?” “Oh, no.” She planted her hands on the soft curves of her hips. “You have some questions to answer first. What's going on inside your head? Why do you want to leave me here?” “Why do you care? You want to be free of your brother! Let me draw them to me so you can escape!” 54

Moonlit Dream “Is that what I'm supposed to want? A future without you in it?” “I'm in prison, Ming. I killed a man. There is no future with me.” “You're not standing in prison now.” She stepped closer. “But my body is, isn't it? Or was that a lie?” She closed her eyes, let out a sigh, and licked her lips. “Yes and no. Your body is there and here. Both, at the same time.” Jason blinked, waited for more, but she said nothing else. “How can I physically be in two places at once?” She looked him square in the eye. “Was it your step-father you killed?” “Tell me—” “No . Answer me, talk to me, please.” Her eyes glistened with moisture, her voice strained with desperation. “Tell me what happened to make you this way.” “What way?” The words came out as a growl of anger, a roaring whoosh through his head. “You act like, like you're unworthy–or you feel like you don't deserve happiness. Why?” “I let my mother die!” The confession tore out of him, shame riding close on its coattails. “There! Happy now? I failed to protect the woman who gave me life! I left her alone with a horrible, abusive man, and I allowed him to kill her!” “Jason—” “No! You wanted the truth, you're going to get it! I left her in a lion's den!” Flashes of blood-streaked walls and clumps of his mother's chestnut hair in the carpet slammed into his mind, churning his stomach. “I'd warned him to never hurt her again and you see how powerful my threat was? I hadn't been gone from home a few months before he beat her to death, and when I killed him, it didn't even matter. She was already gone so what was the point?” He glanced down, unable to look her in the eye while confessing the rest. “I couldn't kill the bastard while she was alive, when the act would have been noble, would have saved her. I waited until she was 55

Crystal-Rain Love already gone and then acted, but not to save her. Not to save anybody! I killed him just to do it, just to purge my anger.” He took a minute to swallow back the bile in his throat. “I was an animal, no better than him, and I got him when he was half passed out. I was too much of a coward to fight him when he was at full strength.”

~~~ Ming tore her gaze away, unable to look at Jason with his shoulders slumped, head hung in shame. Not without crying. How could he not realize how strong he was? “Jason, I believe in you,” she said firmly after battling past her need to cry for him. “You've never been a coward.” He let out the saddest, most hollow laugh she'd ever had the misery of hearing. “You fought and killed two Werewolves with nothing but a silver knife.” “In the time it took you to kill six,” he spat back, turning his head to hold her gaze. His normally light eyes were dark and hard, blazing like green fire. Ming gasped, blinked twice. Was he really upset that he hadn't killed as many Weres as she had? Did he feel like a lesser man because of that? “Jason, I'm a Werewolf. You're a human man.” “You're a woman, a nurturer. I'm a man, a protector.” “You're a fool,” she blurted out, unable to stop herself. Feeling bad about his mother's death and not destroying his step-father while the monster was at full strength was one thing, a little understandable, even, but this? “You killed two Werewolves, Jason, two! During the moon cycle, at that!” She paced back and forth, flinging her arms wildly, the stupidity of his selfdoubt working her into a fit of fury. “No human man should have been able to take on one Werewolf the way you did—let alone two—and walk away! I didn't even have to help you, and you didn't have to use your magic!” His features had started to soften, his muscles relaxing as she sang his 56

Moonlit Dream praises, but the minute she said magic his eyes darkened, his mouth compressed into a thin line as he clenched his jaw tight. “I don't have magic,” he ground out from behind tightly gritted teeth. “Getting the bullet out of you was a fluke.” She frowned, clearly remembering the way he'd extracted the piece of silver. “How was that a fluke? You knew exactly what you wanted to do and did it.” “I thought this was a dream so I tried it and it worked. I can't do it now.” He glanced down at his feet, twin spots of color dotting his cheeks. “I tried to use it during the fight with the Weres and nothing happened. I can't move anything with my mind.” “Because you don't believe in yourself.” Now it made sense. People were more susceptible to believing unimaginable things while dreaming. When he'd thought himself in a dream, Jason's faith in what he could do was strong. But now he knew he was awake, he didn't have enough faith in himself to use his magic. “Jason, you have a powerful gift.” “It's not a gift!” His eyes narrowed on her. “It's useless.” Ming cocked her head and studied the tortured male before her. His entire body tensed, his breath came in quick, deep bursts. His green eyes barely contained fury as his nostrils flared. “You tried to move something with your mind before, when you really, really needed to.” Her heart sank as the pieces started to come together. “Your ability failed you then and ever since—” Jason shoved his hands into his front pockets and turned away. With head bowed, his shoulders sagged in defeat. “What happened, Jason? What couldn't you move? Please tell me.” “I tried to put my mother's body back together.” She gasped on a sob as the image of his broken and battered mother slammed into her mind. She could see it clearly right down to the shards of bone protruding from the woman's scalp and the pool of blood beneath her. In the image, a younger version of Jason knelt before his deceased mother, trying 57

Crystal-Rain Love desperately to fix her body with his mind, but the blood wouldn't seep back inside, her skull and skin wouldn't knit together. She reached him a heartbeat later, and wrapped her arms around his waist, resting her cheek along the ridge of his spine. “Oh, Jason, I'm so sorry. You couldn't have saved her that way. It's not your fault.” He jerked away, and Ming had to quickly right herself to avoid falling face-first to the ground. “I told you what you wanted to know.” He turned to face her, his jaw set in rigid determination. “Now tell me where I am and how to get out of here.” Dark fury rolled off him in waves, and Ming squared her shoulders, prepared for battle. “I can tell you, but you can't just up and leave.” “I'm not staying.” He took a step closer, his features remained hardened. “I am not putting you in any further danger. Now tell me where I am so I at least have a fighting chance when I walk away.” “Fine, I'll tell you and then you'll realize you have nowhere to go.” Ming tilted her head so she could look him dead in the eye. “Have you noticed we haven't eaten anything, yet you aren't hungry? The days and nights roll by quickly and you've not felt the need to use the bathroom in all this time?” His brow furrowed and he blinked, clearly realizing these things for the first time. “You're right. How is that possible?” “Because time and reality have been distorted in order to bring you here, now, and the only way you can leave this realm is to be released, or to die. And no matter what crazy ideas you have spinning through your mind, I don’t intend to let you die.”

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Chapter Eight “What the hell are you talking about? What realm am I in, and how did you bring me here?” Jason’s voice elevated with each word, his dark glare burned through her skin. “You were brought here thanks to my big mouth,” Ming conceded. She scratched her head and wondered how to best explain the realm to Jason. “My brother was about to pick males for a pack fight. Whoever won would mate with me. I begged him to let me go and he got mad. When he demanded to know why I refused to mate freely each moon cycle like the others in our pack, I told him I'd already found my destined mate and if he'd let me—” Warm fingertips touched her jaw and the words caught in her throat. Jason's emerald green eyes hosted a variety of emotions as they stared down into hers. “Destined mate? What is that?” She distinctly heard jealousy in his tone and fought down the wave of hope starting to flare to life inside her. They'd mated twice, during the week of the full moon, no less. Yet, he hadn't given her a vow and her brother was right. Receiving a vow on the night the moon was at its fullest didn't happen often, and when it did it generally happened between two Weres, not a Were and a human. She could kiss her vow goodbye. “A destined mate is the one person you're designed for, a soul mate.” 59

Crystal-Rain Love His eyes widened, his fingers fell away from her face. “And you’ve found yours?” She swallowed hard, searching for a way to tell him without making him run. “You, Jason. That's why I could always find you on the astral plane. Our spirits have been bonded since before our births, but—” His eyes continued to widen as she spoke, “—you ultimately have the choice and you've made yours. You didn't claim me.” She turned away, let out a sigh to calm her fragile nerves and take back the tears threatening to fall. Her composure regained, she straightened her shoulders and faced him again. “I told Rong I'd already met my destined mate and if he'd give me the chance to be with you in the flesh—” Her cheeks flushed with heat, embarrassment swallowing her whole. “I just wanted the chance to see if I could get a vow before being forced to mate with the pack males. Even Rong can’t force a bonded female to breed with someone who isn't her true mate.” Jason shook his head, rubbing his fingers along the frown lines in his brow. “So I'm this destined mate of yours, and somehow you and Rong brought me here to mate with you, thus freeing you from having to sleep with the pack males?” “The White Wolf brought you here.” Ming shivered, remembering the beautiful wolf who'd appeared out of thin air, letting out the most hauntingly beautiful howl she'd ever heard. “What white wolf?” “The White Wolf,” she answered. “The only white Werewolf. She's sort of a spirit mother to all of the Were packs. She heard my plea and appeared before us in the clearing. She looked at us with those amethyst colored eyes of hers and seemed to stare right inside us. She made a deal with us, and once Rong and I finished stating our terms, she used her magic to distort time and brought you here through the Njeri realm.” Jason cocked his head. “What is that?” “It's a realm used by The White Wolf and very powerful sorcerers. It allows a person to be in two places at one time, and distorts time and reality to 60

Moonlit Dream mask the effect.” “That doesn't make any sense.” “It's magic, Jason. Being a human, you search for fact and logic in everything. If you were a Were, you'd accept it easily.” She shrugged her shoulders, at a loss how to explain any better. “Just know that The White Wolf brought you here for a reason. She's not going to let you go if you leave me here.” Jason let out a frustrated sigh. “How long will I be held here?” “Until the moon cycle ends, we mate, or a male takes the place of Rong as pack leader. Whichever happens first.” “We already mated.” Jason frowned, his eyes narrowed in obvious confusion. “No. We had sex. Obviously, despite us being designed for each other, you don't want to be with me.” He opened his mouth, but Ming held up her hand to cut him off. “It's fine. You can't force yourself to feel something that isn't there. I can accept it.” It hurt like hell, but she wasn't going to throw a tantrum about it. “Time moves faster with you in this realm, as you've noticed. You'll grow tired and sleep about the same as you normally do, but you don't feel hunger or thirst as much here. I think it has something to do with the fact that whatever happens to your body here, happens there. If you were packing in the food while in this realm, it wouldn't be good for your body since time is practically at a stand-still in the realm you live in. Eating three meals a day for a week could do some serious damage when, in reality, only a few minutes have passed.” Jason placed his hands on his lean hips and cocked his head to the side. “If what you're saying is true, and I'm following correctly, my body is in a cell right now. I'm sleeping there while all this is happening here. Right?” “Yes.” “Why would I get tired here if I'm already resting there? We've slept twice.” “Your mind is working hard here.” She shrugged, not fully 61

Crystal-Rain Love understanding the reasoning, herself, but she was a Werewolf. She'd learned a long time ago not to question magic. Easier to accept it and go on. “I guess your mind can only take so much, so you have to rest here to compensate. The point is, leaving me isn't the answer. It won't help me at all if you go off alone.” “No matter what I do, they're going to come for you.” His lips thinned into a hard line. “Afraid so.” “And they'll never stop?” “Not as long as I'm not mated and Rong is in charge.” She stared at him, wishing the magic words, which would bind them together as one for all eternity, would spill from his mouth, but it seemed fate had played a cruel joke on her. She'd been given a soul mate who couldn't find it in his heart to love her. She turned away and found a large rock to sit on. The sun had started its descent while she'd explained the Njeri realm to Jason, but her feathered friends hadn't sent her any warnings. She looked to the sky, searching for them as Jason sat next to her on the rock. “I do care for you, Ming.” But you don't love me. She sighed, hating the apology in his tone. “It's all right, Jason.” “No, it's not. Look. If I was a different person, if my situation were different—” “What are you talking about?” She gave up on her search for the hawks to face him fully. “If what you say about this realm is true, I'm going to wake up in a prison cell after we—if we—survive this moon cycle here. I can't give you this vow you speak of. I can't ask you to marry me when my life, my real life, is going to be spent behind bars.” Ming realized what he was thinking and smiled. “Jason, you don't understand. The moon vow is not something you decide to do. It's pulled from you during the moon cycle, ripped straight from your heart and soul, and you 62

Moonlit Dream can't force it.” “So it's a vow I can't even make the conscious decision to give?” “Pretty much.” She let out another sigh, fighting the urge to throw herself a little pity party. “I'm not upset with you. It's not your fault the vow didn't happen.” “Then why do I feel so damn bad about it?” He picked up a pebble and tossed it. “If we survive this moon cycle, and your brother lives, he's going to hunt you down while I'm locked away where I can't possibly help. Am I right?” “Probably.” “Would you hate me if I killed him for you while I'm here?” Ming sucked in a breath, her heart constricting, and gazed at the man who'd been the subject of her hopes and dreams for nearly her entire life. “I could never hate you, but I don't want you to feel the need to do something like that for me. You still feel guilt over killing your step-father though he deserved it. I don't want you to feel any worse because of something you’d do for me.” Jason shook his head. “I feel guilt for not killing that bastard before he killed my mother, just like I'll always feel guilty if I let your brother do anything to hurt you.” Ming bit her lip, studied the intensity in Jason's eyes. She'd wished for someone to overtake Rong and become the new pack leader, but she couldn't kill him. For one, a female couldn't lead the pack. If she killed him, the pack would disband and that wouldn't be good. Rogue Weres generally caused trouble wherever they roamed. Second, she couldn't do it. Rong obviously didn't care about her. He had killed their father for a taste of power, but she couldn't bring herself to kill her twin. She couldn't ask Jason to do it, either, even if it would keep her from having to breed. “I appreciate the offer, Jason, but I'll handle this myself. I don't want you harmed because of me, physically or emotionally.” “I've already lost my mother to one psycho. I'll never forgive myself if I lose you, too. That is what would hurt me, Ming. Regardless of this moon vow you speak of, I didn't lie about caring for you.” 63

Crystal-Rain Love He pushed a piece of hair away from her forehead and leaned in. His lips were soft on hers, but firm. Ming knew she should push him away, talk sense into him. She couldn't allow him to risk his life for her, especially when she wasn't worthy of a vow from him, but she couldn't break the kiss. She craved him too much and knew they wouldn't have many more moments like this. The moon was at its fullest tonight. The chances of a vow given by a human to a Were under the full moon were next to nothing. This would be their last night together. If they survived, Jason would wake up in his cell in the morning, and he wouldn't remember a thing if he wasn't mated to her. Because she cared so deeply for him, she'd do the right thing and leave him alone. She heard the snap of a twig and smelled Weres. But, before she could open her eyes, pain exploded through the back of her head, and she fell limply to the ground wondering why the hawks hadn't warned her and Jason that their enemies had found them.

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Chapter Nine Ming bit through cloth to grind her teeth against the pain throbbing through her head and side and opened her eyes. Her heart leapt into her throat as Jason came into view, bloody and battered, slumped on the ground, and bound by chains to the cave wall. His head hung forward, limp and way too close to lifeless for Ming's liking. She tried to call out to him, but couldn't get her voice past the rag tied around her mouth. “Awake, I see.” She jerked her head to the side to see Rong dressed in all black, with his long, silken hair tied at the nape of his neck. He sat at a small table, eating a piece of meat, complete with feathers. Oh, no. “Your little friends are rather tasty.” He licked his lips before offering a devilish smile, and flung the morsel aside, allowing her former friend's carcass to hit the cave wall. “But a wolf can only eat so many birds in one day, especially when that day is rolling along at such high speed thanks to you and your lover.” A tear trickled from Ming's eye as a bout of nausea rolled through her stomach. Her friends, who'd helped her unselfishly, had been killed because of her. 65

Crystal-Rain Love You sick bastard. I hope you burn in hell. “Now, now, sister dear.” Rong wiped his hands on a napkin and stood. “Remember your loyalties. I am your pack leader, whether you approve or not, and if you didn't want me to kill your little friends, you shouldn't have used them to help hide you.” Ming lunged for him, but couldn't break free of the shackles binding her to the wall opposite Jason. Pain stabbed through her waist and she looked down to see Jason's silver blade lodged in her side. She couldn't even shift. “You will obey me, Ming.” Rong snarled as he stood before her, just out of her limited reach. “And you will breed for the pack. Tonight.” Never. A knowing smile parted his lips and lent a spark of evil to his eyes. “You don't have a choice. I won. Your man did not give you the vow, and I am still in authority so when the moon takes position, there will be a pack fight between the strongest males. The winner will mate with you while I appease the losers by offering up a feast of roasted human.” A growl ripped through the cave, and Ming glanced past her brother to see Jason rise to a stand, pulling against the chains with all his strength. His eyes held the promise of death as they locked onto Rong. “How sweet,” Rong laughed. “Your little human wishes to defend your honor, yet can't muster up a moon vow.” Jason lunged forward, but the chains wouldn't allow him to reach Rong. He struggled to talk, but his words were restrained by the cloth in his mouth. Only angry growls escaped it. “It's almost time,” Rong announced, ignoring Jason’s growls and rattling chains. “I'll leave you two to anticipate the night's events.” With his back shaking in laughter, Rong stepped toward the mouth of the cave. This isn't fair, Rong! I still have tonight's moon! I can still get my vow! Please, give me that chance! No. Rong stopped at the exit to stare at her, his dark eyes devoid of empathy. I've won this fight, and with those gags in your mouths, there will be 66

Moonlit Dream no vow made tonight, so don’t get your hopes up for your release. I’m doing this for you, so you understand your place, your duty as a pack member. He turned and stepped out of the cave.

~~~ Evil bastard, Jason thought as he pulled against the chains. No use. He couldn't break the heavy metal. Ming stood before him, shackled to the opposite wall, his blade embedded in her side. His blade. Just as he'd feared, he'd failed to protect her. His own weapon kept her in human form so she couldn't shift her way out of the restraints. Don't Jason. Don't blame yourself for this. He raised his gaze to meet Ming's eyes, surprised by her mental intrusion. I don't have to read your mind, Jason. I know you. You want to save everyone, but no man can do that. This isn't your fault, not at all. The White Wolf and I both believed in you. That's why she brought you here. A single tear fell from Ming's eye, and she blinked, releasing two more. The sight of tears falling down Ming's face caught Jason's heart in a death-grip. How many tears would fall while she was forced to mate with the winner of the pack fight? Oh God, why? Why had he failed her? I'm so sorry, Ming. Jason? Her eyes widened. Jason, did you just talk to me? Apparently so. He closed his eyes, wondered why he could speak to her telepathically, but couldn't give her whatever this moon vow was. It would save her life, but he couldn't do it, didn't even know what it was. I'm so sorry, Ming. If I knew how to give you the vow, I would. Can't you just tell me how to do it? No. She shook her head, her eyes filled with despair. It has to come from your soul, Jason. I can't just tell you how to do it, but, please, don't think of that. 67

Crystal-Rain Love We need to save you. Incredible. She was about to be forced to breed, but her concern was for him. I don't deserve your care, Ming. I don't even give a damn what they do to me, but I can't allow them to hurt you. He glared at the blade in her side. Do you really believe in me, Ming? Yes. My faith in you brought you here. I'll always believe in you, no matter what happens. Jason smiled around the gag in his mouth, warmth filled his chest. Then, dammit, I'm going to earn that faith. He focused on the blade in Ming's side, directing his total concentration on the silver. A beam of pure blue moonlight crept into the cave, and a searing heat filled Jason's body, wrapping around his heart. Words filled his head and clawed to be released. Ming, I give you freely my heart and soul for your keeping, to hold in your hands from this night forward. Ming's eyes grew wide with surprise, a steady stream of tears poured down her face. Jason, I take your heart and soul into my body, and in turn, gift you with my love, my breath, my very being. I promise to live each moment, only for you, and to cherish each second of your existence, he responded. I promise to live only for you, and to die without your existence. I choose you, Ming, as the bearer of my children, and the owner of my heart. I choose you, Jason, as the father of my children, and the keeper of my soul. By the light of the moon, I become one with you, Ming. By the light of the moon, I become one with you, Jason. Heat scorched Jason's palm, and he screamed, the sound breaking through the barrier of cloth in his mouth. The agony quickly ended, and he 68

Moonlit Dream stared at his palm to see a crescent-shaped mark burned into his flesh. “What the hell is going on in here?” Rong stepped into the cave.

~~~ Ming gasped as the silver blade warmed. The pain lessened as the knife withdrew from her body and flew across the cave to land in the center of Rong's chest. Her brother stared down in surprise and let out a growl. He reached for the weapon, but Ming shifted into wolf form, escaping the shackles, and rammed into him, dropping him to the ground. I won, Rong. Jason gave me the vow. Rong's eyes hardened into black orbs of fury. “I might not be able to force you to breed for the pack, but I can still kill him.” “You can try.” Jason stalked toward them, the chains used to restrain him dangled from his hand. “How did you break—” Before Rong could finish the question, Jason delivered a swift kick to his face, sending blood flying through the air. “That's for threatening my mate.” Sensing their pack leader was in trouble, a dozen Weres entered the cave in wolf form, heads lowered, ready to fight. Ming stood between them and Jason, crouched low. She waited for them to make the first move as Jason and Rong scuffled behind her, but none of the Weres lunged forward. Others trickled into the cave, some came as wolves, and some in human form. Penny, a young Were who'd just reached breeding age and was to be fought for tonight, passed the others to watch the fight between Jason and Rong, her teeth nibbling at her lower lip. Hope filled the young girl's eyes. Realization suddenly dawned. The pack didn't want Rong to win the fight. 69

Crystal-Rain Love Ming shifted into human form and turned to see Jason standing over Rong, the metal chains he'd been bound with now wrapped tight around her brother's neck. Jason planted his foot on Rong's chest and pulled the ends of the chains tighter, cutting off the pack leader's air flow. With the silver blade in his body, Rong couldn't shift. He was completely helpless as his face turned a mottled purplish red. “Ming?” Air caught in her throat as she gazed at Jason's face. He raised an eyebrow, asking her permission. “He's my brother.” “I know. That's why this is your choice.” She stared at her brother as he struggled to draw a breath, finding the feat impossible. He'd be dead if she didn't intervene, but his eyes didn't beseech her for help. They remained focused on Jason, hatred burning in the depths. Even near death, his only thought was to defeat, destroy. He'd never change. She turned to Penny and swallowed hard as the young girl's eyes watered. “I don't want to breed, Ming.” “You don't have to.” She stepped over to her brother and knelt at his side. “I still love the little boy you once were, brother, but I can't allow you to keep hurting the women of the pack. We need a better leader, and you won't give away the title freely. I'm sorry.” She kissed his forehead and stood, nodding once toward Jason. Jason jerked the chains, and the connection to her brother disappeared. The White Wolf appeared and let out a mournful howl. They only had a few seconds. Jason dropped the chains and stepped away from her brother's lifeless form and turned toward her, his eyes full of pain. “I'm sorry, Ming, but I couldn't allow him a second chance to hurt you or any other woman here.” 70

Moonlit Dream “I know, and I'm not upset with you.” He smiled and reached out his hand…but disappeared before she could grasp it.

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Chapter Ten Jason, come to me. Come home... Ming's voice taunted him as he paced the small confines of the cell. Over and over again for weeks along with voices of others he didn't recognize. They called him Pack Leader. He wasn't a damned pack leader. He was a prisoner. He slammed his palm against the brick wall and growled. He remembered it all, and dammit, it wasn't a dream. He still had the crescent mark on his palm to prove it! He kicked a tray of untouched food across the floor and took off again, pacing back and forth. Something was wrong with him, besides the obvious— he'd somehow entered another realm and was then sucked back out of it. No, there was something else. For the past several days something shifted inside him, like something coming alive inside his body, clawing its way out, but it couldn't escape. It seemed to rest during the day, but grew hungry with nightfall. Now, nightfall approached, and the thing inside him was ravenous. He shouldn't even have known nightfall was approaching in his windowless cell, but he could feel it in his body, just as he knew when the guards drew near his door far before he heard their footsteps. I'm waiting for you, Jason. “Ming. Baby, I want to be there with you, but I can't.” He growled again, 72

Moonlit Dream letting out a cry of anguish. She was real, dammit. He'd killed a man for her, to protect her. Why the hell had he been dragged back to this hell-hole? Pain tore through his abdomen and brought him to his knees. He let out a roar as the torture spread through his body. The first time is always painful. It'll get easier. Soon, you won't feel a thing. He glanced up from his crouched position to see a gorgeous white wolf before him, compassion in her purple eyes. “The White Wolf. What are you doing here?” The wolf's mouth turned up at the corners, resembling a smile, then she disappeared as another wave of pain ripped through Jason's chest, tearing a scream from his body. “What the hell is going on in there?” He heard the voice of the guard who'd once beaten a cell mate to death in front of him, and his stomach grumbled with hunger. What the hell? Footsteps echoed in the hall and keys jingled. Jason crouched. Hunger had him in its full grip now. The metal door clanged open, and two burly guards entered. Their eyes widened as they stared at him. The color drained from their faces. “How in the—” The burly guard never got the chance to finish his question.

~~~ He was close. A silly school-girl smile plastered itself on Ming's face as her heartbeat quickened. A whole month had passed while the pack had waited for their leader to return, and she'd suffered most. Her body ached for her mate. She'd done her best in his absence, ruling over the pack, but the males didn't like a woman dictating to them. She smiled slyly, knowing they would 73

Crystal-Rain Love have to get used to the idea. Jason had always been very protective, and very respectful, of women. A twig snapped behind her, and her breath caught in her throat. “Ming?” His voice turned her blood to molten lava. She spun around and gasped at the sight of him. He stood tall in the moonlight, dressed in a white T-shirt and snug-fitting jeans which flaunted his powerful build. Like most Weres, his body had grown more toned with the change. “Jason!” He stepped forward, caught her around the hips and crushed her against his chest. His mouth sealed over hers as his tongue invaded her mouth showing no mercy. She reveled in the taste of him. “I missed you so much.” His green eyes shone as he came up for air. “At first I thought it was all a dream, but you kept calling to me.” “I'm sorry.” She averted her gaze. “It must have seemed as though I was teasing you, but I missed you so badly.” Jason placed a finger under her chin and lifted her face to nuzzle noses, a common gesture of affection between Weres. “I'm glad you did. It kept me going. I've been running non-stop to you since I got out, only stopping to eat and get new clothes.” “I wish you hadn't had to go back there, but you had to wait a month for another full moon. The first change can only take place then.” “But—” His brow crinkled. “How did I become a Werewolf? I was never bitten.” Ming threw back her head and laughed. “You have got a lot to learn. Lycanthropes are changed by a bite. Werewolves are either born of magic, or are the natural offspring of other Werewolves. You were changed the moment you gave me the moon vow.” She raised her palm with the crescent mark, and he matched his mark to hers. “I guess these are like our wedding bands?” She smiled. “Something like that, but these symbols are far more powerful than mere metal bands.” 74

Moonlit Dream He kissed her nose. “I love you, Ming.” “I know. You showed me, loud and clear.” Her smile grew, her heart full of joy. Then worry slammed into her chest. “You're supposed to be in prison! They'll be searching for you!” Jason laughed. “No, I have a feeling they'll believe the same wolf who mysteriously got inside the prison and ate one of the guards, also ate me.” “The wolf who—Jason!” “What? I only ate the bad guard. The other guy got away with a few scratches and a pissy pair of pants.” Laughter burst from her mouth. “Oh, Jason, you're going to be a wonderful pack leader.” She kissed him deeply, only stopping because she needed to breathe. Jason nuzzled her nose again. “About this pack leader thing, I've been hearing some of the other Weres. I guess I should hold a meeting with them or something, huh?” Ming groaned. “If I must share you, I guess I'll take you to them.” Jason laughed. “Honey, I've waited a month to get back to you. The meeting can wait until after we celebrate my return.” “Now, there's a brilliant idea.” Ming backed away. “But you'll have to catch me first!” She shifted shape and took off at a run through the woods, turning her head to see a gorgeous dark-gray wolf gaining on her. The sight of him in wolf form caused the air to catch in her lungs and he pounced on her. They rolled to a stop, shifting forms to make love under the glow of the moon.

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