My Assassin Lover by C. L. Scholey
Whispers Publishing www.whispershome.com
Copyright ©C. L. Scholey First published in 2010 NOTICE: This eBook is licensed to the original purchaser only. Duplication or distribution to any person via email, floppy disk, network, print out, or any other means is a violation of International copyright law and subjects the violator to severe fines and/or imprisonment. This notice overrides the Adobe Reader permissions which are erroneous. This eBook cannot be legally lent or given to others. This eBook is displayed using 100% recycled electrons.
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My Assassin Lover by C. L. Scholey
CONTENTS Dedication Prologue Chapter One Chapter Two Chapter Three Chapter Four Chapter Five Chapter Six Chapter Seven Chapter Eight Chapter Nine Chapter Ten Chapter Eleven Chapter Twelve Chapter Thirteen Chapter Fourteen Chapter Fifteen Chapter Sixteen Chapter Seventeen Chapter Eighteen Chapter Nineteen Chapter Twenty Epilogue About the author **** 3
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**** My Assassin Lover C. L. Scholey Warning This e-book contains sexually explicit scenes and adult language. This material is meant for mature audiences!
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Also by C.L. Scholey Love's Dangerous Territory Writing as Constantine DeBohon Desirous
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My Assassin Lover A Whispers Publishing Publication October 2010 Copyright (C)2010 C. L. Scholey Cover illustration copyright (C) 2010 Traci Markou ISBN Not Assigned All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by an information storage and retrieval system-except by a reviewer who may quote brief passages in a review to be printed in a magazine, newspaper, or on the Web-without permission in writing from the publisher. All characters in this book have no existence outside the imagination of the author and have no relation whatsoever to anyone bearing the same name or names. They are not even distantly inspired by any individual known or unknown to the author, and all incidents are pure invention. Published by: Whispers Publishing, P.O. Box 1165, Ladson, SC 29456-1165.
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Dedication This book is dedicated to my sister, Wendy, and my sister-inlaw, Brigitte. And for Seani. [Back to Table of Contents]
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Prologue **** The distraught man sat quietly weeping in pitiful anguish, a cascade of tears running from red-rimmed eyes uninhibited down sodden cheeks. He clutched a well-worn picture of himself and his young daughter to his chest. His devastation was apparent. His misery, an open book upon his face, told a detailed story of his heart-wrenching pain. "She killed her," the man whispered on a choked breath. A balled fist rose to swipe at pained eyes; the wetness absorbed into his rumpled clothing, leaving a tiny stain on his dark satin shirt. "Do you have a picture?" another man asked. His gaze was expressionless, yet inwardly he was enraged; he had never condoned the murder of children. "Yes," the man breathed out. His hand shaking, he carefully handed over the picture of himself happily clutching a girl of no more than eight to his chest. The two smiling faces looked bright-eyed at the camera as they waded kneedeep in a sea of brilliant, heart-stopping blue. Palm trees dotted the distant white sand against a beautiful, glorious summer's day. "This picture was taken last year while we were on vacation." "Do you have any idea who could have been responsible?" the dark-eyed, dark-haired man asked. He stared intently at the picture of the sweet-faced cherub. Her long, flowing, 8
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white-blond hair seemed to caress her father's form as he held her possessively to himself. "Yes, I know her," the agonized man sobbed in pain. His face went from anguish to hateful, seething anger. "Do you have anything I can identify her with?" the darkhaired man asked. Slowly, the man produced another picture. With a shaky hand, he offered it over. "This is her. This is the heartless, soulless bitch that killed my baby girl without mercy. She ended her life before it even began and I don't understand why. My little Abby was helpless. She was so small and defenseless; this killer took her life without any reason. Please, please stop her before she kills again and devastates another father's life. Please make her pay. I will give you anything you ask. I would give you my soul. Abby must not die in vain," the man begged. He ran his shaking hand over his pale face, wiping the tears away. He looked, red-eyed and haggard, into the dark-haired man's fathomless expression. The dark-haired man studied the picture before him. The woman had shoulder-length light brown hair. She was looking at the camera with a searing, angry expression. Her cold brown eyes glared at whomever had snapped the shot. Clearly, she had been enraged. The man tucked the pictures into his coat pocket, the face of woman and child already memorized. "I will avenge your daughter," the man swore with strong conviction. 9
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"I will pay you anything, I will give you anything, I promise," the man declared, his eyes still flowing freely with his tears, his relief apparent. "Do you know where this woman is?" the dark-haired man asked. "Yes. She is going on a cruise. She killed my baby girl, then decided she needed a break. I can't believe I lived with her. I can't believe she is taking my money and going on a vacation after what she did. She informed me we needed time away from one another. Can you believe that? She needs time to collect her thoughts," the man raged. Another mournful sob raked his slumped shoulders, a shaky hand dragged across his tired eyes. "I will take care of this," the dark-haired man promised. "Please. She needs to be stopped, she can't be allowed to kill another child again," the man whimpered imploringly. "She won't. I'll make certain," the large, dark-haired man stated with deep conviction. He arose and placed a quick hand on the grieving man's shoulder. Then, with purpose, he strode off. He had just enough time to sign up for a cruise. This was one boat ride he would not be late for. [Back to Table of Contents]
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Chapter One **** Casey looked over the railing, watching the large waves bubbling and swirling beneath her. She breathed in deeply the tangy-salt ocean air and tried to still her erratic heartbeat. Her apprehension mounted. She had never before taken a cruise, yet the incessant pleading of her husband had struck a chord within her. It had been a long two months. David was right; they did need a break from one another. After little Abby had been killed, David's anguish almost destroyed him; his anger had driven a thick wedge between them both. Casey had known he had blamed her for the accident. She had been the one with Abby when it had happened. It had been so horrible. Casey could still hear the child's cry of terror, feel her own overwhelming horror as a scream ripped from her mouth in the terrible, empty darkness. Absently, she ran her hand along her shoulder and winced from the pain an angry burn mark still caused her, both physically and mentally. She realized it was not the physical pain, but the emotional one still to heal. Sighing softly, refusing to dwell on the agony of the past, Casey watched as a seagull flew and then glided slowly overhead. Its fluttering wings dipped in a downdraft, then sailed silently onward into the clear blue, cloudless sky. She 11
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envied its reckless, carefree movement. Oh, to fly and fly without a worry. Distracted, she wondered why it was so far out from land. It made no attempt to rest on the great ship, just passed lazily farther out to sea with some unknown destination in mind. Her brows knit together softly against the warmth of the sun. She raised a slender hand to shield her eyes as she watched the bird float with the wind farther, farther, until it finally vanished from her sight, as though it simply disappeared, enveloped in the embrace of the horizon. She gazed, puzzling after it, her brows furrowed in a fine line upon her forehead. "They come out here to die." Startled, Casey spun and found herself gazing up into the face of a remarkably tall and handsome man, who towered over her slight form. His thick, midnight dark black hair barely reached his ears, curling softly. His light baby-blue t-shirt stretched across the wide, generous span of his broad chest. Faded blue jeans hugged his narrow hips, defining muscular thighs. She felt a moment's attraction flutter within her breast at his mythical Greek god good looks. Casey shuddered though, when she looked up into his eyes. Hard, ice-cold, deep brown eyes steadily returned her look, until Casey actually felt herself starting to quiver with trepidation. "I beg your pardon?" Casey asked, with an air of confusion. She tilted her head to the side, bemused. "Seagulls, they come out here to die," the man replied. His gaze intensified until Casey squirmed under his scrutiny. 12
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"Really, I never knew that," she mumbled, unnerved at the man's uncanny intuitiveness for knowing what she had been thinking. She noted with dismay her hand was clutching the railing, turning her fingers white. She loosened her grip and forced herself to relax. She told herself she was being ridiculous. She was on a cruise ship out in the open, nothing could possibly happen to her in public. The man was only engaging in polite conversation. But why did she feel suddenly so uncomfortable? Perhaps it was because he was moving ever so slowly towards her, a clear encumbrance of her private personal space. Casey couldn't shake the thought he was advancing to intimidate her, to frighten her. "Your first cruise?" the man asked conversationally. His voice was low pitched, deep and even, with the slightest hint of an accent. He now stood only inches from her. His powerful form was indeed intimidating. If it was his intention to cause her fear, he was succeeding, although Casey was at a loss to imagine why he would want to accomplish such a foul deed. She stood vulnerable before him. He was more than twice her size, powerfully built. She had nothing he could possibly want. "Yes," Casey stammered. She was now beyond uncomfortable with his close proximity. To her dismay, goose bumps adorned her bare arms. "If you will please excuse me, I'm suddenly not feeling very well," she added hastily. It definitely was not a lie—her stomach, which had before been mildly queasy, was now rolling ominously with each wave as he pressed ever closer. Casey moved to step around the man, but he stepped in front of her, blocking her retreat. Hastily, she stepped back 13
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against the railing or she would have collided with his large chest. She looked up at him, startled, her panic overpowering her thoughts. The man still wore the same impassive, unnerving look; his eyes bore through hers. Paling, Casey was beyond alarmed. Her eyes took flight around, seeking other people. It was with great relief she spotted another man, though not quite as impressive as the one before her, standing at the railing not too far from herself, seemingly oblivious to them. "You'll have to excuse me," Casey said, turning towards the other man. "I see my boyfriend over there." Abruptly, she dodged under a well-muscled arm, making a quick escape. Scooting hurriedly away from him, she wasted no time in retreating to the large, blond man. A man who looked at her, very surprised, when Casey suddenly appeared beside him and clutched at his hand almost desperately. "Well, hello! Who are you, sweetheart?" the man inquired, smiling down into Casey's eyes. "I'm terribly sorry to disturb you, sir, but there's a guy who is bothering me. He's making me feel very uncomfortable," Casey said, not wanting him to get the wrong idea when she saw the obvious interest flicker within his eyes. "What guy?" the man asked, casting his curious glance over her shoulder. "That man over..." But when Casey looked, the darkhaired man had vanished. She and the blond man were completely alone. "You don't have to play the damsel in distress routine, honey. You've got my interest," the man said to her, placing 14
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his own hand over Casey's tightly. His blue eyes looked almost hungrily into hers. The woman before him was cute. The sun shone through her blond highlights that wove throughout thick, long, honeycolored hair, tousled from the wind, as if she had just been bedded. Her soft, warm brown eyes were flecked with emerald green and gold. Eyes that oozed heated desire and perhaps a sweet touch of vulnerability. Her peaches and cream complexion was just starting to tan, with a hint of sunburn across the top of her pert, gently freckled nose. Her full rosy lips would entice any man to want to trace their outline with the tips of fingers. "I'm married," Casey said firmly. "Well that's even better, baby. Why don't we go to my cabin and talk about the pros and cons of monogamy," the man said, and laughed. He was also uninterested in any meaningful relationship. "No thank you," Casey stated firmly. She removed the man's hand from her own and spun sharply around. "Your loss," the man called after her, chuckling. His head cocked to the side, watching her gently rounded behind move under her tight white shorts. Casey sat in a far corner of the large dimly lit dining room. The hour had grown late. Most of the passengers had retired for the evening; only a few lovers or lovers of the evening remained to linger over a late dinner, the children long since tucked into bed. Candles blazed romantically upon each of the ivory white table cloths, and quiet music sounded from a distance, where a few adventurous others danced to a slow 15
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beat. A fresh red rose remained unnoticed in the tiny longstemmed crystal vase before her. She had hardly touched the lobster that had long since grown cold as the hour waned. She was working on her third rum and coke. Abby had loved lobster. Abby had loved a great many things. Casey smiled, remembering their trip to the Caribbean together. It had been her and David's honeymoon. David had insisted Abby was to come. Abby had never once been on a vacation, and he had felt it would be cruel to leave her behind with an unknown babysitter while they were off having the time of their lives. Casey had not minded; she had been just as excited by the child's presence, her new daughter's presence. She had loved the thought those wonderful, warm words invoked. She was now a mother. She had fallen in love with David's daughter the moment they were introduced. Abby's mother had died when Abby was only two, leaving her and David all alone. They had no other family. From the beginning, the child had accepted her presence unconditionally; and she shared her father willingly, without jealousy, knowing instinctively Casey truthfully wanted her near, as much as she needed Casey near. Casey had wondered for the longest time if she hadn't fallen for Abby first, before David. David had been the most loving father; it was amazing to see them together. He gave Abby everything he had of himself, and everything he could afford materialistically. Casey almost winced at the thought. On a deeper level, she had often wondered if David had married her because she 16
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was wealthy. With her money, he was able to give Abby anything, everything. Surprisingly, the child was not spoiled. She took delight in a seashell handed to her. It meant as much to the thoughtful little girl as the pony had. David and Casey had given the child a dapple-grey pony as a wedding present. She had been Casey's maid of honor and had been thrilled. Abby had told Casey secretly she thought the most incredible wedding gift had been a new mother. Finally she would have her own mother to love, like all of her other friends. Sadly, Casey recalled Abby telling her one day that any gift should be a treasure. It meant that someone was thinking of just you for a special moment in time. Casey had smiled tenderly at the eight-year-old, and had called her precocious and precious. "Does that mean you love me?" the girl had asked her, eyes bright with deep, needy emotion. "I can't help but love you, Abby, my little darling, beautiful child," Casey had replied. The child had moved into her arms and Casey had held her tightly to her breast, stroking her flowing, white-blond, silky hair. She knew in her heart she could not love the child more if she had given birth to her. Abby was the real treasure...or she had been. Slowly, a tear trailed its way down Casey's cheek, dripping onto the back of her hand. She looked down as the moisture glistened in the soft candlelight, a gloomy memory of another sodden, shadowed evening laced with heartache and a waterfall of endless tears. Hastily, she wiped at her griefstricken eyes and rose a bit unsteadily to her feet, her hands 17
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bracing themselves upon the table top. She decided it was time for a breath of fresh air. Casey walked out onto the deck of the ship, first noticing the brilliant starlight, and then she once more stared over the railing. The black water churned beneath her, swishing and bubbling as the large vessel slid through the ocean with the grace of a seal. She could feel the telltale chugging of the engine through her feet, invading her senses, reminding her she was far from dry land. Casey was again wondering if this cruise had been such a good idea. She hated boats. She had fallen from her father's yacht when she was six years old and had almost drowned. David knew that. Casey had confided to him about the fearful memory that still plagued her some nights, during their honeymoon. He had been wonderful, holding her, soothing her as her disclosure brought tears to brighten her eyes. The horrible terror of complete helplessness as it had literally washed over her. David had understood her fears and never suggested anything remotely involving sea crafts, until now. She wondered if perhaps this was his way of punishing her. He had insisted she needed to face her fears—she was a grown woman after all, and it was time to put the past to rest—as he must now do with Abby. David had told her he didn't blame her anymore for Abby's death. Casey hung her head in dismay. David had spent so much time screaming at her, telling her that what happened had been her fault. She had wept, telling him it had been a horrible accident. She had begged his forgiveness. But David 18
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had been enraged. She knew the hurtful words he slammed at her were stemming from his terrible anguish. Then, when David had screamed into her ashen, horrified face it should have been her who had died and not his beautiful baby girl, Casey had turned stiffly, headed for the stairs and their room, and started packing. Even though the house was hers, she felt she would leave and stay at her cottage in the Mediterranean, her private getaway she had always used when things had been hard. She was already in such pain she couldn't bear anymore of David's hurtful, hateful words. Her devastation was impaling. Casey's tears had dripped steadily from her eyes as she had thrown items blindly into a suitcase. Once it was full, she sat herself on the bed and covered her face with her trembling hands. Her heart was broken. Abby was dead and now she was losing her husband. He was the only family she had left. The pain in her breast was unbearable. It had been a surprise when David had sat down beside her; she felt the bed dip and her shoulders tightened apprehensively, preparing for his anguished accusations to assault her again. He was sobbing, his head remained bowed. Instead of expressing his anger, he had gathered her shaking form to his chest, pulling her close, almost desperately, holding onto her so tightly she could scarcely draw a breath. "I'm sorry, Casey. Please, sweetheart, I am so sorry. I don't want to lose you, too," David had wept, and his tremors shook the both of them with their fierce pain of emotional release. 19
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He cried into her shoulder, his tears wetting her flesh through the fabric of her blouse. He seemed so broken; she couldn't stand his agony. Lovingly, she had wrapped her arms around him, and they had cried together over their staggering loss, rocking together while expressing their anguish. Though it had seemed a lifetime ago, it had only been two months since Abby had passed. Casey had promised him she would stay, her hands stroking his shuddering back, trying to calm him, wanting to ease his unbearable hurt. She would have promised him anything if she could just remove the agony from his tortured eyes. Afterwards David had been distant, but not unkind to her over the last few weeks. They had stopped sleeping together—David had insisted he needed more time. Casey knew it would take time for him to heal; hopefully he would. Hopefully she would. Whenever she found him glaring at her she would dismiss it, telling herself he was still just upset. Things would get better. Casey had told him they could have a child of their own, yet the outraged, seething anger he had exhibited told her now was not the time, and she refrained from again bringing the subject up. "You should be careful." Casey jumped, startled out of her deep thoughts at the cold, hard voice that invaded her distraught feelings. She turned, and with dismay noted it was the tall, dark-haired man again. Quickly, she wiped the tears from her griefstricken eyes. 20
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"Careful of what?" Casey demanded, leaning back and gazing up into his tanned face. She took a deep breath and decided she was not going to let this man intimidate her. He had no right to invade her thoughts; she wasn't bothering anyone. "Drinking too much and then leaning over the rail. You might fall in," the man said casually. "How do you know what I've been drinking?" Casey inquired a bit heatedly. "I was watching you." Her eyes narrowed on him. "So what are you, some kind of guardian angel?" Casey demanded, annoyed. This cruise was getting worse by the minute. She wished David were here; he would make this disturbing man go away and leave her alone. "Oh, I'm no guardian angel." Casey felt her spine tingle when he grinned down at her. She crept backwards slowly as the man moved forwards. She tried to shrug off an eerie feeling she was being stalked by a predator as he approached. The man moved silently, like a ghost through a thick, hazy fog. The grin did not reach his devious eyes, eyes that were now looking at her in a sinister, merciless fashion. "Who are you?" Casey whispered up at him. Her back pressed into the railing and Casey's apprehension mounted as he placed a hand on either side of her, barring her escape. "Wolf," the man replied on a softly expelled puff of air. Casey swallowed hard as her breath quickened. She placed her hands onto his shirt, clutching tightly to him as he pressed her slowly backwards, leaning her over the cold metal 21
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rail. The wind whipped her hair about her slender form, reminding her of the carefree seagull and its haphazard destination. Only Casey couldn't fly, and she didn't want to die at sea all alone. Whimpering, she looked into the dark churning water far below and her body shook with great spasms. Her eyes rose frantically to his as she tightened her grip onto his clothing. Her chest pressed against him firmly, clinging to him for her very life. Her fear began to overwhelm her and from their close proximity, she was certain he could feel her heart pounding within her breast. "Please," she wept softly up at him, "what do you want?" "You!" [Back to Table of Contents]
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Chapter Two **** Casey stared, horrified, into the man's cruel expression. She realized he was about to kill her. If she fell overboard no one would notice until the ship docked. Until David inquired about her. She had been drinking; the waitress would confirm that, everyone would assume she had gotten careless. No one would be the wiser; she was on board all alone. David would then have another tragic loss to cope with. What if he somehow thought this to be his fault? This would push her grieving husband over the edge. Especially since it was his idea she was to take a cruise and have time for herself, time for her to face her fears and resolve her issues. David would be absolutely devastated; his emotions were too fragile. Her poor husband had suffered enough. She could not, would not allow that to happen, she loved him too much. With sudden determination, Casey brought up a hard, vicious knee between the man Wolf's legs. He groaned in agony and surprise. He slumped forwards, his hands falling from the deck railing, releasing her to grasp at his aching appendage. Casey gave him a good shove. Her action barely moved the huge man a step back. He made a lame effort to stop her retreat, but she elbowed him in the belly, hard, drawing a severe intake of breath from him, and then 23
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stomped fiercely on his foot. She ducked beneath his arms and ran for safety. Casey flew on terrified feet, pounding down the corridors until she came to her cabin. She fumbled momentarily with the lock, her wrist and hand shaking; finally with success she threw open the door then slammed it behind her. After snapping the lock into place, she shoved a chair up under the door handle. Casey then stood shaking. She was petrified! What was she to do? Call the captain, a steward? Perching warily on the edge of her bed, Casey tried to calm her erratic breathing. What would she tell them...a man had told her he wanted her? Lots of men had told her that. He hadn't actually said he meant her any harm. She began rocking her body back and forth slowly, her arms pressed protectively to her chest. A fast tear fell and she swiped at it, refusing to give in to hysterics. Perhaps she could call David. Casey realized, distressed, he was not at home. He had gone on his own retreat to a secluded place with a bunch of his buddies, claiming his own need for solitude. She would not be able to contact him until she docked at home. Hearing a small sound, Casey listened keenly and rose . She thought she heard movement outside her door. Was it him? Creeping forward, her heart thumping within her breast, ever so gently she put her ear to the door, trying to still her own erratic heartbeat. She heard nothing. Still shaking, Casey raced from the door to turn on every light in her cabin and curled up on a corner of the bed, her back pressed solidly against the headboard, terrified her door might slam open at any moment. Vacating the bed once 24
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more, she struggled with a piece of heavy furniture to pull in front of the doorway, and then placed the chair on top, hoping the extra weight would offer a deterrence. Her breath coming in gasps, she backed away and once more crept upon her bed. Her arms curled round her drawn legs, hugging herself. That man had wanted her dead! She was certain, feeling dumbfounded by the idea. The entire concept was utterly ludicrous. She hadn't been imagining it, she was positive. But why? She knew she had never met him. She would have remembered meeting someone like him before, his was not a face or physique to go unnoticed. Perhaps he was simply insane. Perhaps he had just boarded, and seeing her alone he decided to play out a sick fantasy. That must be it; it was the only logical explanation. "David," she whispered softly, her pathetic plea sounding forlorn to her ears. Once more her eyes began to tear, but she refused to let them fall. She wanted to go home. This cruise had been a horrendous mistake. They would be docking in the morning at a small island. Perhaps she could charter a flight and head for home. Thinking this would be the best recourse, Casey pulled a blanket up to her chin, still rocked to the core from the encounter. Emotionally and mentally exhausted, it was a long time before she slept. Wolf was furious with himself. He had never let an opportunity slip through his fingers. Why had he hesitated? He had the girl within his grasp, no one had been about. It was a perfect opportunity; she had been completely at his mercy. Damn! 25
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Wolf had been watching Casey throughout dinner; she had been oblivious to him and everyone else. He had seen her pick at her meal and down three drinks. Hours had passed as she stared despondently into space. Curiously, he had watched her tears fall. They were not for show. No one else had been near her, the stress she was feeling about something was apparent. Wolf was very in tune to his inner feelings. Something about this deal was amiss. He knew for certain the child was dead. He was no novice, he had confirmed this fact for himself, and as the father said, it had been declared an accident, and though a suspicion had been raised, the woman had gotten away with it. The father's grief had been very real; his devastation was not an act. David's hatred and anger towards the woman were also real. Wolf had caught the woman twice unaware. She had not seen his approach. Smiling a bit smugly, Wolf reasoned not many did. If she really was a cold-blooded killer she should have been on her guard. Not acting like a seeming innocent. Perhaps it had been all just an act...a very good one. David had gone into elaborate detail about her astute ability to lie. She had certainly surprised him with her cunning and perhaps fortuitous luck at turning the tables on him. Wolf preferred to stalk his victims and then move in and out without any preamble. He was quick and precise when he killed, never giving in to elapsed time. He preferred they never saw it coming, he preferred they never saw him coming. But he could not get the picture of the smiling young 26
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cherub out of his mind. The child had been so innocent and defenseless. What a tragedy to lose such a beautiful little girl. The enraged look of the woman in the picture who had killed her flashed into his mind. He had wanted the woman to experience fear as the child had. He had seen the woman's fear. He could smell it. Surprisingly her terror had suddenly turned to determination. His groin still throbbed; a small red mark adorned his upper mid-section. Angrily, Wolf paced his cabin. The woman would be wary now. She would run; she would try to hide from him when they next docked. She would know he was no helpless cherub who would succumb to an assault by her. Once they stopped she would bolt as fast and as far away as she could. He couldn't allow that. He was under contract. No one had ever escaped him, none could. Wolf sat down in an overstuffed easy chair to ponder the situation with half a glass of wine, all that he ever allowed himself during the day or night. He preferred to stay sharp. He determined he would get the woman and fulfill his contract. He would once more have her helpless within his grasp and make her pay for her heinous crime. He would then make her pay for his own pain. Casey boarded the large yacht with relief. The men were busy with the sails and she observed a young, dark, pretty woman flirting with a man who asked her if she wanted to help him. The young woman smiled as he took the taut rope and her slender hands between his own. It was a tourist vessel that would take fifty or so passengers sightseeing for 27
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dolphins. It would also be docking in a few hours at another larger island where she could charter a plane for home. Casey had arrived early and watched as the other passengers boarded. She was on guard for one man in particular. She had been watching for the man, Wolf, as she had left the cruise ship, not wanting to be followed. She was positive she hadn't been. It was with great relief the vessel had set sail and they were off, drifting slowly, then picking up speed as they engaged open waters. The waves were choppy and the boat was not as steady as the ocean liner had been. The water sometimes crashed into the bow or stern, knocking the boat, making the people around her titter nervously. Casey made certain to keep other people within her sight at all times. A tiny woman came forward with a full tray and offered her a small hors d'oeuvre, though she declined with a slight grimace. Her tummy rolled with the waves. She also found her hands to be gripping the railing tightly. She was battling other fears from a childhood long ago. Her desolate gaze roamed the empty water before her. She wanted to be home. "I think your boyfriend is confused," a cold voice whispered into Casey's ear. She jumped and turned. Wolf was only inches from her. She began shaking. The man moved so stealthily—she had never seen him board the boat. She had not detected him trailing her; no wonder he was named Wolf. Undeniably this Wolf also had razor sharp fangs as well, intending on making a meal of her. Wolf looked at her with a smirk and motioned with a slight nod of his head off to the side. Casey looked to her left and 28
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saw the blond-haired man she had sought aid from locked in a passionate kiss with a voluptuous, tall redhead. "Go away," Casey said firmly, though to her embarrassment she could not stop the blush that crept over her face at having been caught in a lie. "But we were just getting to know one another." Once again his large, hard body pressed her to the railing; she could see his great satisfaction when he heard her breath quicken in fear. Her small body shook beneath him, her breasts crushed to his chest. Once again she grasped at his shirt to steady herself. "I will scream," Casey threatened through clenched teeth. Wolf chuckled softly. Her hands then balled into fists, pressing against him. She glared up at him angrily. "Go ahead. What will you say? Some mean man wants to talk to me," he said in a simpering, derogatory voice. Wolf laughed at her outraged. "You're trapped this time, completely at my mercy with nowhere to go. I will take an even greater delight in tormenting you for the next few hours until we dock. I can tease your emotions mercilessly, until any resolve shatters. Oh what fun we're going to have together..." Casey threw back her head and screamed as though one possessed. She felt certain satisfaction at the stunned look of surprise on his face. Wolf was so startled she had made good on her threat he stepped back, moving a pace away from her. She belted out another howl that would have frightened both a banshee and a rabid grizzly bear. 29
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The blond man who had been lip-locked with the redhead suddenly appeared at her side, followed by a great many more men and onlookers. Casey raced past Wolf, throwing herself into another's arms. She clutched the blond man to her desperately, pulling him close. "Please make him stop, he threatened me. He grabbed my breasts, tried to kiss me, and told me when we docked he would do all sorts of mean things to me, he hurt me," Casey cried up at him. Her tears began to fall. She offered the man a heartfelt, pleading expression while gazing up into his blue, concerned eyes. "Please, I'm so frightened, please help me. Don't let him hurt me anymore." "Oh, you poor little thing," the tall buxom redhead said in a motherly fashion. She took Casey into her arms and glared heated daggers at Wolf while turning her in another direction, insisting the men would deal with the situation. Wolf stood openmouthed as he watched Casey being led away, and lunged for her when she tossed him a smug look over her shoulder, her tears suddenly vanished while her eyes flashed victory. She turned with a devious grin and didn't give him a second glance as she strolled away beyond his sight. Wolf found himself grabbed by many hands and being led away, below deck. "You cannot do that on my yacht," an angry man informed Wolf as he was muscled and pushed, then thrown into a small room. "I will release you when we dock. I cannot have you manhandling the women here, it's bad for business. Do it elsewhere." 30
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Wolf snarled and resisted the urge to batter the door down as it slammed behind him. He heard a decided click and he knew he was now locked in. Damn! She did it to him again. That conniving little... He laughed suddenly. She certainly was unpredictable. Wolf sat in the one hard, lone chair in the room, pondering. Perhaps he was being too hasty when he killed quickly. This was certainly more entertaining and definitely more of a challenge. He had no doubt he would eventually get the girl. Once they docked he would grab her. Her crime could not permit a merciful end; however, he found she amused him. It had been a long time since someone had amused him. Perhaps he would toy with her for awhile. She had caused him a great deal of trouble. No wonder the man had sought her demise so eagerly. She was a crafty little thing. It was easy to see how her husband had been fooled by her seemingly innocent looks and demeanor. Her angelic face shone purity, a magnet for any unsuspecting man. But Wolf knew better. He leaned back, tipping his chair against the wall. Closing his eyes, he sighed softly. He may as well rest. She couldn't leave without him. Neither of them was going anywhere for the moment. Casey once again gazed out over the ocean. The choppy water had turned into violent waves as they battered the sides of the yacht. Casey had already donned a life jacket, as had many others in their apprehension. The wind was howling and the sky had turned an ominous dark. A loud clap of 31
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thunder boomed as lightning struck a rapid streak through the horizon. Black clouds were rolling in, surrounding them at a fast rate. A few of the women were weeping. A great many people were huddling together, voicing concerns, as men aboard the ship raced from end to end, pulling at the sails and shouting out orders in a language Casey did not understand, though their frantic, harried pitch was easier to comprehend. It was now Casey's turn to console the red-haired woman. The blond man had abandoned her when the weather had turned. Claiming seasickness, he had scurried off to hide below deck. The two women held tightly to one another, clinging almost desperately, as the boat rocked and shook, dipped and shuddered. Casey screamed, horrified, as a large, dark wave crashed suddenly over the bow of the yacht, washing a small handful of people over the side. More men were racing and screaming out orders as ropes were thrown haphazardly to the flailing victims to no avail. The boat rose high into the air and crashed down, knocking people to their knees, or sending them rolling and spinning. Casey was pitched forward into the mast and the redhead was suddenly gone. They had been jerked violently from one another's embrace, screaming, each being tossed into a different direction. Casey grabbed at the ropes on deck, trying to keep herself from being thrown overboard into the turbulent water. She crawled and clawed, sliding, making her way to the small steps that would lead down to safety below deck. 32
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Another wave crashed over the yacht, throwing Casey into the railing, hard. Her breath intake was sharp. She fought to remain conscious as a gripping pain seized her right side; she slumped over in agony. The rain now beat down upon her mercilessly and once again she struggled to the steps, crawling, a shaky hand held to her rib cage. Horrified, Casey felt the boat's deck suddenly disappear out from under her feet as the entire yacht was flipped sideways. Vertigo became her nightmare. Screaming, flailing, she entered the water feet first, and sank quickly as a large wave crashed over her head, thrusting her further down towards the endless bottom. Terrified, Casey became paralyzed. She was suddenly six years old again and sinking to the bottom of the ocean floor, crying out for her mother and father within her thoughts. Sounds of the ocean were different than above water. They seemed surreal, as though listening with a glass covering your ears. It was almost as if the ocean moved in slow motion, on a different plane of consciousness. Casey opened her eyes wide and watched, fascinated, as a large, shadowed object swam before her. Bubbles of water floated in abundance all around her, images of light filtering in, then out. She remained suspended in time. Casey felt her hip nudged. She whimpered, trying to ignore the intrusion into her surreal, quiet, calm world. The nudge came again, harder, though not cruelly, releasing her from the nightmares of the past, spurring her to strike out for the surface. Desperately, she reached up with her hands, clawing at the water, now needing to breathe. With great 33
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relief, she broke the surface and sucked in noisy amounts of air into her lungs. "Help me!" she screamed, and choked on a generous amount of ocean water that flew into her face. Looking around, Casey could see no one; the salt water stinging her eyes mixed with heavy rain, encumbering her vision. Her breath came in heaving gasps. The yacht had vanished. The waves battered at her. Her aloneness engulfed her. Alarmed, she once more felt a gentle nudge at her back. Wary about sharks, she spun about in the water, watching, searching. Distressed, she saw the grey dorsal fin then, as it slowly emerged from the water, rising ominously higher. It was circling her. "Oh no, please." The fin approached slowly and Casey's whimpered pleas increased as she tried to swim away. The water churned around her as her body rose and fell with the huge waves. Her progress was inhibited; her injured side ached from her struggles. She was completely helpless, there was nowhere to seek safety from, and she was trapped in a hunting ground where she was unable to escape the sights of a skilled predator. As she watched the fin move ever closer, her heart hammered loudly enough to filter the sounds of the storm. It was just her and the large being that now existed. The torment of her wait drew out to agonizing depths. She fixed her eyes on its approach, unable to breathe. The fin was a hairsbreadth away. A nose suddenly broke the surface of the 34
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water and Casey cried out with tremendous relief. She was swimming with a large dolphin. "Please help me," she cried, and she took a hold of the dolphin's dorsal fin, hanging on tightly. The dolphin seemed to sense her distress and moved off easily amidst the turbulent water, dragging her swiftly. The sky had darkened almost to pitch blackness. Casey could see nothing in the gloomy, choppy water and wondered where the dolphin was taking her. She was loath to release the mammal. She had remembered, listening to tales of dolphins helping sailors whose ships had gone down. She remained hopeful. She pleaded to the creature to find her dry ground. She knew the dolphin could not understand her words, but she knew it somehow sensed her helplessness and need. After awhile, Casey's throat became raw from talking. The wind whipped at her face, causing her to gasp for the occasional breath. She grew quiet. An intermittent, encouraging cry from the dolphin jerked her from her fearful thoughts. She continued to whimper softly. She was so terribly tired. Her grip was slipping and she could tell the mammal slowed only to help her maintain her tenacious hold. After sliding once more beneath the water, the dolphin had come up under her, supporting her slight, shaking body onto its own. Her side was pressed against the dorsal fin, keeping her in place while she lay over it. The water was cold and her body felt numb; her teeth chattered. The life jacket she wore over her small t-shirt did nothing to aid her exposure. Her bare legs were frosty while 35
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in shorts and she was unable to kick further. She wondered how long she would last before shock set in. Her tortured mind slowly began to give up hope as her thoughts wandered... She would miss David. It would be wonderful to see her mother and father again. Had she remembered to water the plants before she left? David wouldn't, he never remembered things like that, silly man couldn't find his socks most days. It was cold. Why was she so cold? She should get out of bed for another blanket. David? David, could you get another blanket? I'm too tired to move, please. She was so tired, when had she slept last? Perhaps she should sleep. A little sleep would help her, she was certain. In a hazy daze, Casey slowly began to close her weary eyes, her leaden arms slipping gradually down her sides. Startled, Casey felt something under her feet as they dragged against sand. She once more clutched at the dolphin's fin to steady her as she stumbled in surprise. Her numb mind cleared with a fast jerk into reality and, with great relief, she realized it was the ocean floor she was feeling. She shook her head, clearing it of dreamlike thoughts. Reality struck; she could touch the bottom! She was in water and could now touch the bottom! Stumbling, while still clutching the dolphin for support, Casey made her way to shore. Her body felt frozen and numb with exhaustion. The cobweb thoughts still clung with sticky, confused fear. When waist deep, she felt the animal stop. She pulled at its slippery form, but it held its position steadfast. She realized it could not take her further; she was on her 36
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own, and it had done enough. Casey wrapped her arms around it, giving it a gentle hug. She kissed its nose. "Thank you," she whispered with heartfelt emotion. "Thank you for my life." The dolphin turned slowly and slipped beneath the water. It disappeared from her view, making her wonder if she had dreamt the entire episode. Nevertheless, she was near shore. She staggered from the water. The rain still beat down upon her. Once Casey felt she was far enough on land, she dropped to her knees and crawled a few feet more. Her weariness engulfed her. She curled into a tight ball and slept. Casey woke slowly the next morning, feeling disoriented. Her mouth was dry and she was covered in a fine sheen of white, crumbly sand. She pulled her aching body into a sitting position. She removed the life jacket, pulled her shirt up, and noticed the bruising on her poor, paining ribs. The ocean had claimed her sandals and she was barefoot. Thankfully her feet had not been cut on the ocean floor. She glanced around her surroundings cautiously. The white beach stretched out before her on either side. Huge, boulderlike rocks appeared in the distance, obscuring some of her view. Numerous palm trees and deep green vegetation dotted the area. The blue of the ocean stretched as far as the eye could see until it mixed with the endless horizon. Vast emptiness surrounded her; she shuddered with her absolute aloneness. Her tummy growled, and it was with relief Casey arose, spying food, and picked up a mushy banana from the ground. She ate slowly, her thoughts centered on hoping the island 37
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was inhabited and she would be able to acquire help soon. She needed a doctor. Her hand lifted to rub on her sore ribs and though she felt nothing was broken, it was a nasty bruise. It would be a good idea to have her ribs checked, regardless. Casey stared into the distance, wondering just which way she should travel, left, right? She was too frightened to enter into the dense bush; it looked dark, foreboding and uninviting. She closed her eyes, and with determination, she chose a direction and struck out. She could not just sit here and do nothing. Perhaps others had landed here as well and required help. Perhaps the tall redhead who had been so kind to her had washed up on shore with her. Even the creepy blond man would be preferable to no one. Casey walked for quite some time. Her feet ached and burned as the sand warmed under the sun and the heat intensified as the day progressed. She began walking in the water, only treading on the wet sand. Her thirst increased to dramatic proportions until she spied a coconut tree. Looking around the ground, Casey realized she would have to climb the tree in order to get one. It wasn't too high and she was desperate enough to try. Coconut milk was not a favorite of hers, although it was better than nothing, she surmised. Her throat was beyond parched. She wrapped her slim arms about the tree, and hauling herself up, she slowly made her way to the top, ignoring the hurtful, cruel pain in her side. Her feet slipped and her hands grew sweaty with worry until she developed a rhythm. Her determination prevailed. She was surprised when she actually 38
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sat victoriously clutching a coconut in her hands amidst the top of the tree after engaging in a battle to free it. It had been years since she had last ventured to climb. The last tree she had perched in had been a large, solid oak with wide, beautiful branches, close to the ground. She had been playing a game of hide and seek with some new friends. The exhaustion she now felt was decidedly greater than the last time. Casey breathed in great gasps of air, stilling her erratic heartbeat. After a quick deduction of her immediate situation, she decided to drop the food to the ground. It would definitely make her descent easier. She would need all of her strength to climb back down again. Her ribs were howling in protest. Her arms poised, she looked for the best place to drop her bounty without opening it, and suddenly gasped in terror. Below her, moving stealthily, was the man, Wolf. He had apparently survived the shipwreck. To Casey's dismay, she realized he had been following her footsteps in the sand. Without hesitating, Casey dropped the large green husk and felt a great deal of satisfaction when Wolf looked up and was suddenly smashed into unconsciousness as he was hit squarely on the forehead. Casey scrambled to the ground. Breathing heavily, she grabbed the coconut that had rolled away from the large man. She resisted the automatic urge to check his pulse. Casey thought, with dismay, in every single movie she had ever seen, a deviant hand shot up to grab the unwilling victim's hands as they sought a pulse because they were 39
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being compassionate. No doubt Wolf would be enraged and very eager to get his hands on her. Moving off into the more inviting bush, Casey scrambled to safety. In the jungle he would not see her footprints. He would not be able to track her. She sobbed as she ran. She was on an island with a man who wanted to kill her. A man she had angered; someone more than twice her size. What was she going to do? How could she ever hope to get away? [Back to Table of Contents]
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Chapter Three **** Wolf rose slowly. His head ached. The woman was no longer amusing him. Wolf lifted his hand to his forehead and, though relieved there was no blood, he felt a nasty bump. She would pay for this, Wolf vowed. Wolf had taken the initiative and had released himself from the locked room when the weather had turned turbulent. Unable to find a life jacket, he had barely been able to swim away as the yacht flipped, and then quickly sank. He had heard the woman's scream of terror and watched her plunge over the side. Heavy waves engulfed her. She never resurfaced. Figuring his job was now finished, he was able to pull himself up on a large piece of debris, a wooden mast that had snapped off as the vessel had pitched over. He had risen and fallen with the waves. Hanging tightly to his makeshift raft, he grew increasingly tired as the minutes dragged into what he felt were hours. His body became numb with cold, making it harder to hang on. His throat became dry while licking the salt water from his lips. Sometime later, feeling tremendous relief, he had spotted the outline of a shore in the far distance and, though reluctant about leaving his floating raft, he had struck out for it. Stumbling, dragging his tired, aching body ashore, he had crawled under beached driftwood and succumbed to sleep. 41
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When morning came, he had walked the lonely shoreline and had come across footprints. He knew they belonged to a woman. The prints were bare, small, and there had been no children aboard the vessel. Looking around, Wolf could see the prints near the water just beginning to disappear. She must have recently turned into the alcove away from his vision. Wolf hoped it was the voluptuous redhead he had seen with the blond man. Smiling wryly, he wondered if she needed some comfort. It was definitely worth looking into. Wolf stalked the beach and came across the last of the prints. They suddenly seemed to disappear. Bemused, he had gazed around slowly until it dawned on him, she must have climbed the tree. Upon looking up, he had been so surprised to see his target still living that he failed to notice the coconut's descent before it was too late. He again berated himself. If he had been stalking a man it would not have taken him so long to check up in the tree. It was a rarity for him to see a woman in a tree; a little girl perhaps. This woman was proving to be more difficult than he'd ever imagined she would be. How on earth had she known he was following her? It was impossible. Shaking his head, he realized the only one to blame for this was himself. He had gotten sloppy. It would not happen again. Wolf also realized he was not the only one to have gotten sloppy. The woman had allowed him to live. Why, he couldn't fathom. She might not have a weapon, yet he noted the coconut was missing. She could have bludgeoned him to death. 42
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He shuddered with the thought. That wouldn't have been pleasant and it could have taken some time. Undoubtedly it would have proved painful. She would not have been strong enough to snap his neck. Wolf had no doubt who would prove victorious if they engaged in a physical confrontation. Perhaps the idea of bludgeoning had not appealed to her either; it would have been messy and hard to explain if the authorities had come across his body. She would have been smart enough to bury him though, he speculated, although she would have had to bury him out here in the open. She wasn't big enough to lift him. She would only have been able to roll him over into a shallow hole, risking discovery. Successfully spying her tracks, Wolf set out after her. He thought briefly that before he killed her, he would ask her why she had left him alive. Perhaps she panicked. More likely, Wolf thought grimly, she only murdered tiny, helpless children with faces of cherubs. Casey gasped in great amounts of air. She had been running blindly for a great distance. Her sides ached and she had cut one of her toes on a sharp stick. Her toe had bled so badly she had finally ripped off a piece of her shirt to wrap it around her injury, hoping to stop the flow of blood. She knew the man would be able to track blood. She sensed he was tracking her; a wolf stalking its victim mercilessly. Casey shook with the notion. Rising slowly, Casey nibbled on a few wild figs; the act was more to settle her nerves than nourish her tummy. She needed to find fresh water. The coconut had been difficult to 43
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open, and when she used a rock to smash it, a great deal of the precious liquid inside had spilled to the ground. Moving cautiously, she made a greater effort to gather in her surroundings. She still hoped the island was inhabited and perhaps she had just washed up on shore at the wrong side. Casey walked amidst the tropical plants, daydreaming about her trip to the Caribbean with David and Abby. Abby had been so delightfully curious about absolutely everything. Even though Casey had been there numerous times, she felt like she was experiencing it again for the first time, thanks to Abby's uninhibited wonder. Her squeal of delight at even the smallest coruscation was appealing, and Casey was caught back up into her own childish wonder. They had gone snorkeling and horseback riding along the sandy white beach. They had stayed up late by a roaring fire one night while an amusing native had recounted wild stories, making Abby laugh in abandoned wonderment. Her innocent happiness was contagious. They had been so joyously happy, a real family, Casey's first, since her parents' demise, leaving her all alone. It had been absolute heaven. Casey allowed her tears to fall uninhibited. She was so alone now, so lost and afraid. She knew Wolf was coming for her; if she could just figure out why. Stopping suddenly, she cocked her ear to the side, listening intently at the familiar noise which invaded her thoughts. Moving hopefully towards the sound, she cried out when she spotted the small waterfall. It could not have been more than eight feet high, surrounded by a small clearing. The 44
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foliage about seemed to caress the water pooling below into a tiny pond, the ferns swayed in a quiet breeze of gentle mist. Casey reached out to cup a mouthful of the clear liquid and, bringing it to her lips, she ventured a tiny taste. Gratefully, she drank more through her parched lips. She cupped her hands, tossing the water onto her body, rinsing her face and neck, ridding herself of the sticky sweat that bathed her. The water was cool and refreshing. She felt a moment's apprehension, knowing the water should be boiled before drinking, but how could she? She didn't have a pot. She could not risk a fire. Wolf would see it. He would come for her and kill her. Casey sat and immersed her injured toe in the water, thinking hard. What if the island was deserted? What if she and Wolf were the only ones left alive? She wondered how long it would take rescuers to find them; it would be impossible to hide from Wolf forever. If Wolf killed her out here, he could easily bury her body and claim he had been the only one on the island. She knew he would track her relentlessly, nonstop. She would crumple from fatigue and hunger before long. She would not even be able to light a signal fire. What was she to do? It all seemed so hopeless. Casey's head slumped forwards in defeat. Wolf was so big; she was so powerless against him. An image of David came into her mind—David holding her, his magnetic smile lighting candles behind his eyes; David making love to her with painstaking tenderness. He would be so heartbroken to lose someone else in his life. Casey could 45
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not just give up. She needed to make it home alive for him. She must think of something. The only way for her to live would be to stop Wolf. She swallowed hard. She knew she could never kill him. Slamming him with the coconut and seeing his prone body and slack features before her had been bad enough. Perhaps she could capture him and then start a signal fire. Her shoulders slumped even lower. How was she going to capture a man twice her size? She couldn't just throw him over her shoulder and demand he behave himself, like he could undoubtedly do with her. She highly doubted a man like Wolf ever behaved. He was terribly angry with her. She knew he would now not only kill her, but would take great satisfaction in torturing her first. That thought made her shudder. No doubt he would take great pleasure in being able to cause her excruciating, merciless pain. Casey looked around, wondering how she could trap him without getting herself killed in the process. Noting the vines on the tree, she moved to yank one down. Holding either end securely within her grasp, she yanked on it hard. It held. She took a deep breath, thinking. She hoped enough of it wound around the man's wrists and ankles would hold him. Casey knew she would only be able to get close enough to tie Wolf if he were to be unconscious. That thought gave her pause. He would be expecting a tree attack. No doubt he had decided not to underestimate her again. No, this time she would need to be closer. The thought was terribly frightening, he was so intimidating. Perhaps she could use her extreme 46
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vulnerability to her advantage as some kind of weapon. Maybe it could work for her. Gathering more of the vines, Casey went to work swiftly. There was no other way around it. She didn't want him dead, yet she wanted to live. This Wolf going to have to be muzzled! Wolf squatted on the path Casey had been following. He doubted it was a human trail and he wondered just what kind of animals were on the island with them. Wolf picked up a small piece of palm leaf. There was blood on it, a lot, and it was fresh. She was injured. Perhaps that was why she hadn't killed him, she might be too weak. Wolf noted she was no longer running. Her steps had slowed to a less harried pace. She was tiring. Wolf followed the trail more slowly. He had noted the coconut tossed off, opened, to the side. Apparently she was now weaponless. He would not be caught unaware again. He checked the trees and sniffed at the air. She was close. Tilting his head to the side, Wolf listened. He could hear the unmistakable sound of water trickling. He hoped it was fresh; he was parched. Instinctively, he knew that was where he would find her. In her exhausted state, she would need to make a stand sooner rather than later. Casey started to shake when Wolf entered the small clearing. His dark eyes settled upon her. She huddled back against a tree. She watched as he took in her disheveled appearance. There was a bloody cloth wrapped around her head. Part of her shirt was missing and she had made sure he 47
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could see the bruising on her ribs. Her waist heaved in and out. When she backed up farther against the tree, she limped heavily, and she whimpered loudly in pain. Wolf reached out for the water from the falls, cupping it in large hands, taking a long, refreshing drink. He ran some through his hair, over his face and neck. He was unhurried. "Please go away," Casey begged to Wolf, splaying her bloody hands before her. It had not taken much to coax more blood from her injured toe. She was desperately counting on him thinking she was absolutely helpless. "I'm not going anywhere." He advanced slowly towards her after first slaking his thirst. Casey sobbed softly. She was so afraid. She could see the tiny droplets of water running down his throat to soak into his t-shirt. His muscles flexed as his fists clenched and unclenched. He looked even bigger than she remembered. She desperately hoped her plan would work, or she was about to die a horrible, painful death. "Please, what do you want?" Casey cried. "You," Wolf reminded her once more. "Why? I don't even know who you are." Her body trembled so hard she was surprised she was even able to stand. "I know who and what you are," Wolf informed her. He stalked her, a dangerous predator advancing. She knew she wasn't going anywhere this time. She admitted to herself he was in control of her every movement. "Please, please just tell me why. I don't want to die. I'm so very frightened of you," Casey begged, and she was. Wolf was only a few feet away from her. Casey slid to the ground, 48
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crouching at the base of the tree, looking up at him, watching his merciless approach with trepidation, their eyes never breaking contact. She felt helpless, trapped by his intense gaze. "Was Abby frightened?" Wolf demanded. "What?" Casey breathed out slowly. She stared up at him in horror. "Are you surprised? Did you think your deed would go unpunished?" Wolf snapped. Casey covered her face with her hands, whimpering softly. What was going on? How could he know Abby? "I don't understand," Casey sobbed softly, confused. Wolf was directly before her, an arm's length away. "Then let me explain it to you in great detail," Wolf said, stepping closer. The trip line was attached to the biggest branch Casey could carry and lift. It didn't take much for Wolf to trip the vine strung across the foliage at ankle level. He did not have time to duck or even throw up his arms. The limb crashed down onto his head, rendering him senseless once again. Casey didn't hesitate. She grabbed at the nearby vines she had stashed close by. Gripping his clothing hard, she heaved him onto his belly and soon had his ankles and wrists firmly tied. It was not long before Wolf stirred. Casey scooted back away from him. When Wolf came to, he thrashed and flailed to no avail, spewing vile, angry words in a voice so loud Casey covered over her ears and scrunched her eyes shut. When he finally settled, resigned, he eased himself up into a sitting position, 49
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propping himself against a tree. He glared furiously at Casey, who was now peeking at him with trepidation. "You might have persuaded me into granting you a small mercy, but I think we have passed that point now," Wolf said menacingly. She shuddered as his eyes bore into hers. "You are going to kill me no matter what I do or what you think I did. I don't want to die. Please don't kill me," Casey said softly. She had removed the bloody wrapping from her head and was gently wrapping it around her bleeding toe once more. Wolf took note of that. "You're a cunning little thing, aren't you?" "I'm a desperate little thing," Casey countered. "Not for much longer," Wolf told her snidely. "Why didn't you just kill me? Or are you only capable of murdering helpless children?" "I did not kill Abby," Casey said heatedly, hurting deeply inside, her tears once more falling. Her fierce stare settled onto him. She was tired of the accusations. "I was told you did," Wolf countered. "I don't know who told you that; it's a sick, disgusting, cruel lie. David forgives me, he said so. I don't know who is filling your head with these vicious falsehoods. It was a horrible, awful accident." "You were with her," Wolf challenged. "Yes," Casey whispered, nodding her agreement. She sat quietly before him with her head bowed in thought. Her anger receded. She had been with Abby. "Then why don't you tell me what happened," Wolf coaxed. 50
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Wolf had found a sharp-edged rock and was tediously rubbing at the vines holding his wrists. If he could keep her talking he would not have to trail her again and risk another trap. His aching head couldn't take much more. For a little thing, she was strong. The branch that had nailed him had been huge. Wolf was surprised he had come to so fast. He was even more surprised at still being alive; once more he had been sloppy. The fact the woman was before him, trying to talk to him, was indeed a mystery. She should have been swimming by now. She was terrified of him. Head still bowed, Casey began talking slowly, unsteadily, her words painful. "Abby and I were out shopping. We had just come from dinner, a girls' night out. We had started doing it months ago; it was our own special time. It was dark and raining steadily. Not too hard, but I was being very careful. "Abby had bought her father a new lure with her allowance money. She was so proud. I knew David would love it; he loves to fish, and so did Abby. But the fact she had saved her own money to buy something for him would be priceless. She was sitting in the backseat, admiring it, when the car skidded on a slippery patch of road. I got the car under control easily enough, but Abby had dropped the lure. It had rolled under the seat in front of her, out of her reach. "I told her to wait, we could get it when we reached home, but she had already taken her seatbelt off to retrieve it. She had dropped down out of my rearview mirror sight, and I called for her to get up. I told her the weather was bad and I wanted her to be safe, I needed her to be safe." 51
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As Wolf listened, he could hear her terrible anguish radiating from within. After placing a quick, shaky hand over her mouth, Casey began again. "I know I should have kept my eyes on the road and not on the rearview mirror, but it was only a second, just a split second. I wanted to make certain she listened. "Just as she sat up, another car came from out of nowhere. The high beams blinded me, and it skidded into us and crashed into Abby's side. The impact was deafening. I was slammed into my door, the airbag exploded into my face. Abby screamed a wrenching, painful scream and was thrown out through the glass on the other side of the car. "My car and the other slid and skidded along the road, and when we finally stopped, my door was pressed against a telephone pole. I couldn't open the driver's side door, it wouldn't budge. I fought against the airbag. My body ached so badly from the crash but I had to get to her. She needed me, she needed my help. I crawled out the broken glass on the passenger's side and over the crumpled hood of the other car. I was screaming for her, 'Abby...Abby!' I couldn't find her. Where had she gone? Oh please, God, where?" Casey was sobbing hysterically as she recounted that horrible night in her mind. Her arms wrapped protectively around her heaving middle. "I saw her blond hair peeking from under my car, close to the telephone pole, and I tried to get to her. She was pinned under a wheel. I wasn't strong enough, I couldn't lift the car off her. I tried and tried, but it wouldn't budge. 52
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"I crawled under the car to reach her, and burned my shoulder on the tailpipe. But I kept crawling and calling to her. 'I'm coming baby, Mommy's coming, hold on, please hold on, oh God, hold on.' When I reached her, she didn't move. There... was... blood... everywhere. 'Abby, wake up, please open your eyes, baby, for me open your eyes, look at Mommy.' She wouldn't, she... couldn't." Casey's voice trailed off as no more than a ragged squeak. She moved her arms about in a soft, flailing gesture, seeking something, caught up in her terrible grief. Wolf strained to hear as Casey continued, her words rambling. From what he could understand, the paramedics had finally had to sedate her to take her away to the hospital. David had not even come in to check on her. The nurses sadly informed her every day that he never called to find out her condition. When she had returned home, he had verbally attacked her, screaming at her it had been her fault, she was to blame. She had murdered his baby girl. David had forbidden her to even attend the funeral. Casey had been completely devastated. She had loved the child, too. "David forgave me, he said he did. We only needed time alone for a little while." Casey whimpered up at Wolf. "Please, Wolf, tell me who wants me dead. Who hired you? David will explain to them he still loves me. David needs me. He would be so hurt if he were to lose someone else. Please, I beg you, don't destroy him. He hurts enough. We both hurt enough. Please no more pain," Casey pleaded brokenly. "Please tell me who, I need to know," Casey whimpered again. 53
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"There's a picture of the man in my front pocket. It's water damaged, but you will know who it is," Wolf told her grimly. Casey crept towards him slowly, warily, clearly very frightened of him. Wolf shifted slightly, and Casey eased her hand into his front pocket and pulled the picture out. Slowly she unfolded it, and he saw her hands shaking. He watched as understanding fought denial in her eyes. Her head dropped. She then looked up at Wolf; her red-rimmed eyes looked into his . "No," she whimpered. "Yes," he replied. Slowly she rose to her feet. Wolf now unhurriedly removed the bonds around his ankles; he had gotten loose. She walked over to the water, wondering if death hurt. She doubted anything Wolf was about to do to her would cause her greater pain than what she was already experiencing. Hopefully it would not take him too long. Perhaps he could still be coaxed into a small mercy. At least Abby would no longer be all alone. The thought comforted her. She would like to see and hold the beautiful little girl once again. She would cuddle her closely while running her hands through her silken hair. They would exchange butterfly kisses while laughing. Casey heard Wolf approaching her. He no longer needed his stealth to catch her unaware. She would not, could not run from him. She was too tired. Her body had ceased shaking; it took too much effort. Her arms hung limply at her sides, her head bowed in acceptance. Exhaustion had settled in; her mind was slowly shutting down. She was in emotional 54
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and mental agony. Casey was almost beyond the threat of fear. A man she loved beyond reason wanted her dead. He had wanted her to die drowning in the ocean. He had wanted not only her death, but also that she die terrified and alone, perhaps whimpering his name while waiting for her end. She turned slowly, accepting in her agonized mind this must be her destiny, and faced the powerful man who now stood inches before her. His look was impassive as he gazed down onto her helpless, shattered form. "Please, will you bury me here, by the trickling, clear water? The sun shines through the treetops with warm, dancing lights. The sound of the flowing water is so comforting and reassuring. The taste is so sweet and cool. Like an oasis of hope for the lost and alone; it's so very beautiful, Wolf. Abby loved beautiful things. She said that was one of the reasons she loved me so much." She gazed into his eyes , begging his mercy that he would not tarry overlong with her as they glazed over in her absolute terror of him and of what was now to come. The sound of the water suddenly overwhelmed Casey; her mind once more searched for the surreal, quiet calmness. She was so tired. The last two months had been so long and exhausting; she felt emotionally and mentally incapacitated. The powerful man standing before her looked so strong and now somehow welcoming, inviting, as she embraced her fate. Casey moved forwards and stepped into Wolf's arms. She suddenly collapsed against him into merciful unconsciousness. [Back to Table of Contents] 55
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Chapter Four **** Wolf held the woman's small, limp body against him easily, his one arm draped around her tiny midriff. He had been contracted to kill her; her life was literally now in his hands. Wolf was angry, furiously so; he had never before killed an innocent. He knew now this woman was an innocent. The contract had been made under questionable circumstances. But Wolf was a professional. He had a job to do. He had been hired out, and it was a done deal, his reputation was on the line. Wolf looked into her placid, tear-streaked, pale face. She felt so petite and helpless clutched to his chest. She was completely at his mercy. She had tried so hard to live until the end, until she had been overwhelmed with the agonizing truth of her betrayal. Wolf had been certain he had watched her heart disintegrate right before his eyes. She looked like she was dying and would welcome death. This was not a merciless murderess. This was an agonized, shattered woman, who had thwarted his efforts in an attempt to spare her beloved husband more pain, the very man who sought her violent agonizing end. Damn! Gently, Wolf laid the woman on the ground before him. He studied her helpless form. Her face was still wet from her tears. Her body was battered, yet not as badly as he had first 56
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thought. She seemed to possess a great deal of ingenuity, though her tenacity had succumbed to her heartbreak. Wolf did not consider himself evil or without certain compassion. He had been led to believe the woman had intentionally sought the demise of the young child. He no longer believed she had. David's story was somewhat different than the scene she described. He had been led to believe the child had been purposely settled into the back of the car without a seatbelt, to set the stage for the accident. He had been told the side had purposely been picked, as it was on the opposite side of the woman. Of course she would want to see the child easily in the rearview mirror or her peripheral vision, as a mother would; it would have been more difficult if Abby had been situated directly behind her. David had told him the woman had been completely unscathed during the accident, but the burn mark was real. The last proof of evidence he needed had been held in David's own hand—a fishing lure. The man had held it with his fingers while rubbing his thumb over the shiny item in a caressing way while they had talked. Never once had he admitted the item in question was a gift from the child, her final gift to him. At the time, Wolf had thought it strange, but he understood now. Of course he would cherish the last item his child ever held. Perhaps his own guilt was driving his rage; the present had been for him. The child had removed the seatbelt to retrieve the object, and now she was dead. Her father must be consumed with hate, but perhaps the real hate 57
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was directed towards himself. His wife was the last reminder the child had died, and he couldn't stop blaming himself until she was gone. But what was he to do with her? He no longer wanted to kill her, the contract be damned. He did not want rumors starting that he killed innocents, which would get messy, change his entire playing field as well as the players. He had never been after the money. He had gone after her on principal, really; this particular assignment had hit a sore spot. He sighed softly, his frown slowly replaced with wily conviction; he answered to no one. Wolf decided his reputation could stand alone. "David," the woman whimpered pitifully. She had curled into a tight ball when Wolf had lowered her to the ground before him. Her ankles and wrists crossed protectively as though to ward off more pain. Wolf stood over her small, helpless form. He ran a hand over his face. She could have killed him, he realized for the second time. She could have ended his life twice. She hadn't. This was no evil assassin. This was a woman agonizing over the death of a child, her child. No matter how it had come to pass she was innocent. Wolf came to a conclusion. Casey woke slowly. She sighed and floundered about, trying to get her bearings. A small fire burned brightly, crackling and popping against the black darkness of the starry night, and she stared at it in confusion. She sat up slowly, rubbing at her tired eyes and sand-encrusted limbs. Her eyes focused on a large shape. She became concerned when she 58
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saw Wolf sitting across the fire from her. Her head ducked and her hands splayed before her in a pleading gesture. "Oh, please, no more. I can't anymore," Casey wept sadly, and she curled back into a tight ball. She had thought never to awaken again. It would seem Wolf would like to play with his prey. Casey had had enough. She felt she was finished. She lay quietly in her curled position for a short time, waiting for Wolf to do his worst. When he did nothing, she ventured a look at him. Still lying on her side, rounded into a tight ball, she peeked up at him through her arms, frightened. Wolf was watching her carefully with his impassive look. Casey relaxed her position to sit up. Her head remained bowed; still she knew his eyes never strayed from her. She was grateful he had not bound her. She wept softly, wondering at his intent. She felt so vulnerable and defenseless. She would be powerless to stop an open assault from a man his size. Sadly, she wondered if she would even try. She held her arms tightly pressed to her chest, and she rocked back and forth, whimpering. "Are you sorry you hurt me?" Wolf asked her suddenly. His voice was low pitched, even; the lilt in his slight accent was not unpleasant, though she could not place its origin. Casey looked into his expressionless eyes, stilling. She noted with dismay the angry red bump upon his forehead. She knew it must pain him. "Yes," she whispered honestly. Casey abhorred causing the distress of another. "I was just so frightened of you I didn't think. When you were lying there, unconscious, I wanted to help, but you would have hurt me once you woke. I'm so afraid of you; after all of the 59
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confrontations and what you said on the yacht, I just reacted. I ran. I'm sorry, Wolf, I didn't know what else to do." She could see Wolf ponder over her words for a moment. He had cornered her three times on two different boats, seeking her fear. She knew what he intended to do with her. Once again she had felt trapped while perched in the tree. Even the most cowardly of creatures will attack when cornered. Wolf tossed something in her direction. It landed with a small thump near her thigh, disturbing the sand beside her. Surprised, Casey reached a tentative hand for the mango. "What are you going to do with me?" Casey asked, her eyes on him. "I haven't decided. But if I were you I would refrain from hitting my head with other paraphernalia or I will be very angry. I will definitely not be as forgiving of a repeat occurrence," Wolf said sternly. Casey shuddered at the thought. When he was grinning, he terrified her. His angry, stern look was fearsome. She nodded slowly and stared at the mango, hoping it wasn't her last meal. She wondered again why he had allowed her to awaken. The confusion she felt within was almost overpowering. She knew the man before her must be a hired assassin, yet why had he not finished his job? He had made no move to harm her. Certainly David must have told him what had transpired on the eve of Abby's death, as had she. He must already be aware of the circumstances. Why was he waiting? Shuddering, she wondered if he had something else in store for her. 60
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"What did David tell you?" Casey asked hesitantly. She needed to hear. She had to know why this man had been hired, and then not finish what he had set out to do. "Are you certain you want me to tell you?" Wolf asked. "Yes," Casey replied, and swallowed with trepidation. Wolf's look unnerved her. "David said you murdered his little girl on purpose, that you had never wanted her around. He said you wanted to send her away to the farthest school possible because you despised her interference. David said when he insisted Abby was to stay at home you planned the car accident; he maintained you wanted her out of your way. Daddy's little girl was interfering with your plans. I was informed you had intended on getting pregnant, and once having accomplished the deed you would have taken his money and the new baby and left, to abandon him in grief," Wolf informed her brutally. Casey's mouth fell further at each sentence, horrified. Her eyes widened in disbelief. She could have understood David's pain. She knew in her heart she would have forgiven him even this, if he had been honest, but to lie so blatantly... David knew these were hideous lies. Casey was overwhelmed, disgusted. How could he do this to her? Why? "I'm guessing I was perhaps misled?" Wolf asked. "The crash was an accident, an awful, horrible accident. I was terribly hurt, battered and bruised, burned and in shock. David never once came to see me while I recovered in the hospital. He never phoned to check on my condition, or return my calls. He had all of our friends shun me. 61
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"When Abby had asked where I had gone to school, I mentioned it had been a private school in Switzerland. She asked me if she could go, but I told her I felt she was too young. I didn't want her away from me. I had missed my own mother so desperately; I didn't want her to be lonely. I suggested we visit first so she could see what the country was like, and when she grew older, if she was still interested, well then we could sit and discuss it. "I only mentioned the baby after Abby's death. David had said before, Abby had gone without a mother for so long she needed my undivided attention, and I had agreed with him. I had wanted a baby, but postponed pushing the issue for Abby's sake; she really did seem to need all of our attention. I didn't mind, I loved her so much. I would have done anything for David, anything to take away his hurt. My God, I can't believe he was using my own money to kill me." Casey sat stunned. She was devastated at David's betrayal. So devastated she had handed over her life to the man before her, not caring what he would do to her. Casey's hurt turned to anger, and then slowly to outrage. Her insides seethed at his treachery. How could David do this to her? How could he be so cruel, when he had once held her in his arms and made love to her? How could he have held her in his arms and cried, begging her not to leave? Had he been planning this all along? He must have; that was why he had pleaded with her to stay. He had needed the time to plot against her, all the while keeping an eye on her, casting her forlorn looks until he knew she would do anything for him. Even offer him an opportunity 62
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to end her life. How could anyone be so cold to someone they professed to love and care about? How could he use her caring, loving words against her? Casey felt a sickening, furious anger; an icy finger slid down her spine. Coldness seemed to envelop her very being. How could anyone act so disgustingly, so inhumanely? How could she have married someone so depraved and twisted? "So, does that mean my check would have bounced?" Wolf asked with wry amusement. "That scum-sucking toad!" Casey raged suddenly. "That slimy, filthy little weasel!" Wolf's eyes rose. He now warily noted she held the mango in a death grip. Wolf prepared himself to duck—she was armed again. Casey jumped to her feet and began an erratic pacing, limping slightly. "How could he! I loved him! We did everything he wanted to, whenever he wanted to! I even went on this bloody cruise just for him!" Casey shouted in outrage. "Poor little thing. A cruise in the tropics. I'm certain it would make any woman distraught," Wolf drawled up at her somewhat sarcastically. Casey stopped her pacing to scowl darkly at him. "I almost drowned when I was barely six years old. I fell from my father's yacht and they had to perform CPR on me. I was in the hospital for a week before my mother felt safe enough to let me come home. Do you know how lonely I was? "My parents were unable to stay with me. I suffered with that nightmare for years! Afterwards, I refused to get on any 63
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type of boat. Even a canoe sent terror into my soul. David knew that. I confided in him and he used it to frighten me!" Casey seethed through gnashed teeth. Yet, she did this for him. She thought maybe if he felt he was punishing her and she accepted it, it would show to him how much she really loved him, her loyalty towards him. "I suppose that was why he insisted you be drowned," Wolf muttered. "And here I thought I was a cold-hearted bastard. Apparently I have competition." Casey slumped to the ground. He had demanded she be drowned. Her suspicions were confirmed. David hated her. Perhaps he had never loved her in the first place. He had done it all for Abby. She had been convenient money. "Why haven't you killed me?" Casey asked Wolf suddenly, brows furrowed, as she calmed her erratic heartbeat. "Would you like me to? Am I keeping you from an appointment?" Wolf asked. An assassin with a sense of humor. Well this trip really is getting better and better, Casey thought. "No, I would not like you to. I would like to get off this island and head for my lawyer and a speedy divorce," Casey informed him, annoyed. "I could kill him for you," Wolf casually mentioned. Once again he wore the impassive look upon his face. Casey looked at Wolf, considering his offer, she was that angry. She had recently had a taste of confronting the terror David wanted her to experience. She could envision herself, floundering in the empty vastness of the ocean; feel her overwhelming terror, knowing that no one would come. Would she die swiftly, or would she battle for days? 64
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She shook at the thought of night enveloping her, wondering what would swim up beneath her, taking her apart, piece by agonizing piece. David wanted that, he wanted that end for her. Her stomach churned as she fought the rise of bile. She then pictured David, dead, lying in a pool of his own blood, his vacant stare. Casey's shoulders slumped. She sighed. She knew what it was like to be terrified and hunted. "I think we have been through enough. David and I are finished. We have nothing left," Casey said quietly. She wrapped her arms around her knees. "You have your lives," Wolf informed her. Casey exhaled slowly. She hoped that meant he was now going to spare hers. She didn't want to die anymore. She sadly wondered if she would ever love or trust anyone ever again. She had confided her entire life to David, hopes, dreams, and fears. He had thrown it back at her sadistically, without remorse. What kind of demonic man solicited his wife's demise? A man so consumed with hate and overwhelming sorrow he could no longer see straight. Despondently, Casey curled back into a tight ball. The jungle around her was dark and threatening. The man before her was dark and threatening. She opted for the man and the fire. Casey closed her eyes. She was once again too tired to care, her emotions were overwhelmed. She wanted to hide in sleep. Sleep was safe. Wolf watched the woman and knew the moment she drifted off. Her even breathing was soft, and her small body slowly relaxed and uncurled from her tight position. She 65
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looked so incredibly vulnerable. Wolf wondered if her husband was going to allow her to live. Wolf was not the only assassin out there. There were those who would kill her no matter her crime or lack thereof. Wolf considered those people to be thugs. He had no use for them. Perhaps he should have a talk with her husband. He would not like it if a life he spared was to be taken; it would make him angry. Wolf sat back against a tree, watching her as she slept. If she had ordered a hit on her husband, he might still have taken her life, feeling she was indeed somehow responsible for what happened to the child in some adverse way. He knew she had pondered the thought momentarily. Given the circumstances, he felt she deserved at least that. No, this woman was harmless. Well, perhaps not completely harmless, he thought, and, grimacing, he rubbed at his still paining head. He decided she would pay for that, whether she claimed she was sorry or not. Wolf wondered if they were alone on an uncharted island. He felt certain that help would come eventually. He remained unconcerned the woman would tell what had transpired between them once they were found. She would be very foolish if she talked. He would explain that in great detail. At least if they were alone he had company. He didn't like the idea of being the only one on a deserted island. He didn't even have a soccer ball, he thought wryly. He had noted they had various foods, having found the mangoes and bananas. He was more than well aware of the coconuts, having been up close and personal with one. 66
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Wolf closed his eyes. It was a damn shame the redhead wasn't here. He would have liked her company. The woman before him was cute, all right. But she had commitment written all over her. Wolf was a lone wolf. He preferred it that way. Besides, he highly doubted that after trying to kill her, the woman before him would be receptive to any idea relating to intimacy. He even wondered if she would be here in the morning. Sighing softly, he decided it didn't matter. He had spared her life. He would only track her down and give her a harsh warning. Feeling vindictive about his paining head, he thought perhaps he would have her beg his mercy very prettily once more. She owed him that. Wolf slept. [Back to Table of Contents]
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Chapter Five **** When Wolf woke he was not surprised to see the woman was gone. He stretched lazily, unconcerned. He would be able to track her easily enough. At least she had taken the time to throw more wood on the fire before she left. He even noted with interest a mango set out for him nearby and a few wild figs. Perhaps it was her attempt at placating, very nice. Though Wolf still wanted to get his hands on her, he was in no rush. The woman could wait. Wolf rose and headed for the small falls, seeking a drink. He stopped dead in his tracks, and then leaned leisurely against a small tree. Surprisingly, she had not left. She stood under the waterfall, completely nude, apparently trying to stay hidden. All thoughts of the redhead vanished and Wolf stalked closer, interested. The woman he had thought was just cute now made the blood in his veins pump faster and his loins tighten. Her hair hung halfway down her back while wet. Her behind was gently rounded, attached to slender, shapely legs. When she turned slightly, he noted her high, jutting breasts did not appear as small when exposed, and his fingers twitched to caress them. Water cascaded around her, dripping slowly in places as though lingering over her, quickly in other places as though sliding silkily with the urgency of a passionate lover— very tempting indeed. 68
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Casey had arisen early. Hungry, she had set out to gather more food, not straying far. Though fearsome, Wolf was the only other living being nearby and she was loath to run from him, certain he would follow regardless. She sensed if she made him chase her he would be angry. She did not want to anger him. When she returned and Wolf still slumbered, she looked at the water longingly. She was bloodied, hot, sticky, itchy, and sand-covered. Once more she had risen and, hiding behind a jutting rock in the water, she had stepped under the falls. She had washed at her clothing, but could not seem to remove all of the sand properly. It seemed to collect in small openings of her clothing, making her feel even more uncomfortable, as the sand was now weighted and pooling heavily in discrete places. Peeking around her hiding place at a still unmoving Wolf, Casey had removed her clothes, hoping to rinse them out quickly. She noted this worked a great deal better, as she could turn the garments inside out, gaining a further inspection. Casey turned to once more peek around her hiding place to check on Wolf, while she readied herself to step into her now clean panties. She screamed, terrified, when she noted he was not sleeping, but only a few short feet away from her. His face no longer impassive, he was staring at her body as if she were a buffet and he was starving for all you can eat. Casey was still clutching her panties to her breasts as she fled from the water. She raced into the jungle, plowing through ferns and dodging rocks. She could hear Wolf behind 69
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her. He was steadily gaining. Casey's smaller legs were no match for him and his powerful physique; she knew he would have her within his grasp in a matter of moments. She was certain of his intent. Her tears were already flowing at the images assaulting her battered mind. She was petrified! Casey saw the branch up ahead. She reached for it as she raced past, ducking under it. Stopping suddenly, she turned and pulled hard, letting go of the branch. It sailed through the air, smacking Wolf hard across the chest with a loud thwack! He fell backwards on impact, feet flying out from under him. He landed soundly, bottom first, with a loud thump. Wolf lay supine, motionless. He groaned. Casey once more began running. Wolf arose, his mouth the shape of a circle in stunned surprise. She did it again! Damn! Wolf made his way back to camp, grumbling, his chest aching. He would find her, he vowed; now it was personal. He stopped, stunned, as he saw her standing, now fully clothed and soaking wet by the fire. Wolf advanced on her, his hands fisted, his intent clear by the rage on his face. "No wait, please," Casey cried out, her hands splayed before her. She backed up. "Wait for what! For you to break my leg next!" Wolf howled. Casey cowered before him. "Please, no. I was frightened. You didn't see the look you had on your face. I got so scared I just had to run. I had to stop you. Wait!" Casey cried as he 70
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gripped her by her revealing, wet shirt, almost yanking her off the ground, pulling her towards himself. "You hurt me...again!"Wolf snapped furiously. He gripped her throat with his other hand. "I didn't hit your head," Casey choked out, terrified. Wolf looked down into her ghost-white face. Her breath was coming in ragged gasps. She whimpered up at him. Pleading words emerged from her mouth as her jaw quivered. She was not even struggling, he noted with interest, just rubbing the arm that gripped her throat, pleading for compassion, mercy. "Why didn't you keep running?" he questioned, now curious. His outrage was quieting as she remained completely submissive. His grip loosened. "What would be the point? We are alone together. I don't want to spend all day running and hiding from you. You would only find me and be angrier. You were sent to kill me. You spared my life, but I don't want you to hurt me. Please don't do that to me." Casey was sobbing brokenly. "My friend was raped. She never told anyone but me. She was terrified of men after the assault. She said it was so awful, she had been helpless. He was so cruel. She was so scared. He was so big. You are...so...big." Casey was now hysterical with her fear. Wolf released her and she sank to the ground in a heap at his feet. She clutched at his pants, her bowed head pressed against his knee. Taking a deep breath, Wolf regained his control and rubbed at his chest. She was right; she hadn't hit his head again. At least she hadn't said he was so ugly. Wolf 71
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crouched before her, sensing an opening he had been looking for. He gripped her chin firmly with a large hand. "I will not rape you. But you owe me," Wolf declared. Casey nodded emphatically. "You will tell no one of our encounter. When we leave this island you will forget I exist. If you do not, I will track you down, and you and your friend will have a great deal more in common. Do you understand?" Wolf said threateningly. "I won't tell, I won't tell," Casey whimpered. Wolf glared into her eyes and, finally satisfied, he released her. Casey watched Wolf warily as he returned from the falls. He still had yet to don his shirt, and his powerful chest glistened; his hair curling at his ears seemed darker than midnight. Wolf noted her guarded expression. "You can feel free to attack me wantonly if you wish," Wolf told her and chuckled as her face turned crimson. "I don't find your humor amusing," Casey informed him petulantly. "Hell, who was joking, I was serious." Wolf sat across from her by the fire. "So what's your name?" "David didn't tell you?" "Oh, he called you a name all right, but I'm guessing it's not an endearment," Wolf said with a smirk. "My name is Casey," she replied, annoyed. "I had a dog named Casey once," Wolf told her. Casey groaned. "Well since we're on the canine subject, why Wolf?" Casey said, and felt smug as his eyes narrowed. 72
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"Careful, little girl, I bite," Wolf warned. "So I noticed. Why would you want to kill people? Don't you worry about eternal hell and flames? What about compassion?" "If I were without compassion you would not be sitting there," Wolf reminded her, "and, I'm an atheist." "Oh." "Not everyone goes around spending Daddy's money. Some people do have to work for a living," Wolf said. Casey watched him while he ate more wild figs. She noted he watched her as well. She shuddered. What if they were here for a long time? What if no one ever found them? She would be stuck with a maniac. Though he claimed he would not rape her, he said he was an atheist, not a monk. She had seen his interest. "We need a signal fire," Casey declared, becoming agitated. "Yes, we do," Wolf concurred. He remained unmoving, still watching her. "We should build it on the beach out in the open," Casey said. She began to squirm under his scrutiny. She couldn't shake the feeling he was remembering her nude. "The beach is a fine idea," Wolf replied. His dark eyes trailed over her suggestively, as though he were undressing her with his eyes. "Will you stop it!" Casey yelled, jumping to her feet, though her side protested at the sudden movement. Wolf looked up at her. "Stop what?" he asked. 73
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"You are always staring at me, you're making me nervous on purpose. Maybe I should move to the other side of the island after all," Casey said. "I would just find you, as you so helpfully pointed out," Wolf replied, unconcerned. Casey sat. She had been right; he wouldn't let her leave. His eyes continued to trail over her body. "Please stop," she begged. "There is nothing more interesting to look at," Wolf replied in his defense, not understanding why she was so unnerved. "Did you know your toe is bleeding again?" Casey looked down and groaned with annoyance. It was a deep cut. It must have reopened during her wild flight away from him. She took her bandage off, then shied back as a shadow darkened and Wolf suddenly appeared in front of her. Very gently, he lifted her foot and inspected the damage. "It's a deep gash," he said, stating the obvious. "What do you care?" Casey whispered. "You were right when you said we are alone together. I like to be alone, but not alone enough to lose the only other living being on the island." Wolf was glad he had spared her life. Who knew how long he would be trapped here? Perhaps in time her fear of him would lessen, if he allowed it. Wolf took the bandage and headed for the water. He returned shortly and washed her bloody toe. When finished, he rewrapped it. "Wolf?" He looked up into her apprehensive expression. "Yes?" "Don't hurt me," she whispered. 74
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"Funny thing, little girl, but if you recall, you're the one doing all the hurting," Wolf reminded her. He rose to his feet and went to get a drink of water. Wolf watched with interest as Casey propped up a two foot long, hollowed piece of bamboo over the fire. One end rested on the ground, the other supported by a forked stick embedded into the ground. She had poured water into it, and then stuffed green leaves inside. Wolf could see the steam escaping from the small, loosely plugged hole at the top. Casey had also made two cups from bamboo by using a sharp rock to cut just below the joint in the bamboo. She then took banana leaves and, placing them over ash from another fire she had started earlier, she cracked open three eggs she had found. They sizzled softly from the oil of the leaves. Casey had informed Wolf she was sick of mangos and wild figs and would like something else to eat. Wolf had grandly raised his hands and said sarcastically, "Let's go shopping." To his great surprise, Casey did. She had scoured the area with a suspicious Wolf trailing her, claiming he was still not certain she wouldn't bolt when gone from his sight. Casey had gathered sea lettuce that she first washed before placing it into the bamboo cooking container. She had dug a small hole in the sand. After thoroughly scorching stones, she had thrown them into the hole, followed by the clams they found, and covered it over with wet seaweed and more sand. Wolf could just barely see it steaming. "I got shipwrecked with Rambo," Wolf mused as Casey handed him the cooked food on a cleaned, large leaf. 75
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Smiling, Casey settled back, relaxing more now that Wolf was looking at the food instead of her. He had been trailing after her like a gigantic puppy all day. His incessant questions drove her to the brink of insanity. She had never realized a fully grown man could be so annoying. David had always given her a great deal of space. She was very close to begging him for her demise. "My parents and I traveled a great deal. More than once we were treated to a wide variety of interesting dishes and shown how they were cooked as well as caught," Casey informed him. "I love clambakes. I wish my parents were here with me now." "So where are your parents and why did they let you marry that scumbag?" Wolf inquired. He was working on the second egg, eating enthusiastically. "My parents died while I was just finishing high school. There was a terrorist bombing in the Middle East. My mom and dad where killed when the car in front of them exploded. My dad was a diplomat. He was a good man, they were wonderful parents. I miss them." Wolf was looking at her thoughtfully. "I've known diplomats. And the life their children lead. They take them to country after country if they want their spouse and child close. I'm guessing your father kept you close." Casey nodded; rarely had her dad ever left her or her mother behind. "What about your parents?" she asked. "My dad was an assassin," Wolf told her, grinning. "Nothing like following in your father's footsteps." Casey shivered. "Weren't you afraid?" 76
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"Afraid of what? Him being killed by an exploding car?" Wolf inquired. "Touche." "I grew up surrounded by family, too much perhaps, a great deal of extended family. We took care of our own. We live, we laugh, and we die, we're not so different. I saw Santa Claus at the mall. The Easter Bunny came. I went on pony rides and ate candy apples. I loved my dad, he was an amazing father," Wolf informed her. "Is he still alive?" Casey asked curiously. "No," Wolf said briefly. "What about your mom? Is she still living?" Casey asked. "No." Casey put the rest of her dinner down. She had lost her appetite. There was always so much death. She watched as Wolf reached for it and finished it off. "Do you have other family?" Casey asked. Wolf remained silent. He seemed to close himself off, as though he had offered too much information. His impassive look was once more securely settled onto his face, and she realized their conversation was now over. She sighed softly. Perhaps it was time for a drink. She arose quietly, noting Wolf's eyes trailed after her. The sky was once again darkening. The horizon turned a fantastical red. It had been a long day and Casey was tired. She returned from the waterfall quickly, not wanting to be away from the safety of the brightly burning fire. She had been dismayed that they had not spotted one plane overhead or any boats in the distance. 77
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Casey curled once more onto her side. She knew Wolf was watching her; surprisingly it didn't bother her anymore. It seemed to be a habit of his, not done out of malice to purposely frighten her. The darkness of the island was fierce; it hadn't taken long for the luminous red to fade. She grew apprehensive at what lay beyond her sight, and shuddered. The noises seemed to intensify as the sun set, and Casey started, sitting up swiftly at an unfamiliar clamor in the darkness. After a lingering gaze off into the foliage, she once more settled herself down. She wanted to be home, she wanted to feel safe, and neither was going to happen any time soon. She pulled herself into a tight ball, covering her face, her arms cradling her head protectively; she would have to learn to take care of herself out here and forevermore, she had no one. She would have to be strong, tough; still, she was miles from all she knew. Her chin quivered and she sobbed quietly with the thought, and then hardened herself to tears, no tears; she would not allow herself to give in to theatrics. After a few deep breaths, she stilled her small sobs to tiny hiccups. She lowered one arm to drape it closer to her chest in a protective gesture. A soft rustling sound caught her attention; the ground beside her was disturbed. She stiffened as Wolf suddenly lay down next to her. He draped an arm over her, pressing himself firmly against her. "Wolf?" she whispered fearfully. She began shaking, wanting to pull away, yet did not dare. 78
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"Go to sleep, little girl. Wolf is through hunting for the day. There is more safety in a pack," he breathed into her ear. Though frightened, wondering at his intent, Casey remained motionless, paralyzed. She was helpless once more. Long minutes passed. Her body stopped shaking as Wolf curled around her, his hard chest pressed securely to her back. She could hear his even breathing. He pulled her more snugly against himself, yet kept his hands from roaming. She could feel his steady, strong heartbeat. Her head lay cushioned on his arm. He had washed at the falls earlier, but she could smell the essence of man. It wasn't unpleasant. Her eyes felt heavy and she battled to keep them open. The fire crackled before her. Safety was a luxury, she finally concluded. Being in Wolf's arms was no more dangerous than being in David's. Yet, David had wanted her eradicated, and though Wolf had given her no reason for sparing her life, she sensed he did not want her dead any longer. Casey could have cried at the thought, but didn't. Instead, she closed her eyes. If Wolf was going to take her life he would have already. She wondered at the money he had forgone to allow her to live. His body felt warm against the cool night air. Warmth was also a luxury. Casey decided to allow herself this small luxury. She slept. [Back to Table of Contents]
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Chapter Six **** Casey helped Wolf drag large pieces of driftwood towards a roaring fire they had started on the beach. The days were dragging by slowly; each day that passed had Casey fearful they would never be found. Though Wolf had tried to remain aloof, each day brought more disclosures of his life to her. She was fascinated when he admitted to having been everywhere in the world. Casey had thought she was well traveled, but Wolf had been to places she had never heard of, he could converse fluently in six different languages, he was undeniably brilliant, and he studied all forms of martial arts. Her discovery of the martial arts became apparent shortly after the first day, when she had watched him practice his fluid, easy Katas. Without embarrassment she had settled herself down to observe him; she thought perhaps he had enjoyed her attention. She found it disturbing that she liked to watch him move; he was mesmerizing. It was amazing to see someone so large move with the skillful grace of a talented classical dancer. The few times she had attempted to mimic his movements, she was clumsy and had fallen. He had laughed while assisting her to stand, and his normally emotionless eyes had shined with amusement. Then he had just as abruptly walked away, ignoring her, leaving her to stand alone, shaking her head in confusion at his retreating back. 80
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It took a great deal of coaxing on her part to gain any information about him; at times she felt it would be easier to remove live alligator teeth than to have him open up, but she was persistent. Casey had always been very social and she wasn't use to conversing with someone so dead set against talking about themselves. She was finding delight in any of his random admissions, which seemed to be a tad more forthcoming as they spent more time together. Though interesting as Wolf was, she was still overwhelmed by him and his profession. Perhaps it had been wishful thinking when she had caught a brief, bright glint in the sky. She had been certain a search plane had passed overhead just that morning. Wolf had been pessimistic. Casey had been distressed when their own fire had burned out after they had left it to once again seek food, but Wolf remained unconcerned. He took a piece of softwood and, running a hard stick through a groove relentlessly, he had caused friction, starting a fire from a spark into the tinder he was creating. "Now who's Rambo?" Casey asked wryly, watching the flames grow as they licked hungrily at the dry wood. "What can I say, I'm a pyromaniac," he replied cheekily. "Well, the maniac part is definitely believable," Casey muttered. "Just because I'm an assassin does not mean I'm insane," Wolf countered. He then tossed a large piece of dry driftwood onto the fire. Casey scooted back as it burst into flames. "What part of killing people do you classify as sane?" she asked. She stared up at him in a challenging way. 81
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"Cops kill people," Wolf replied. "They protect people," she rebuffed. "I've protected people," Wolf told her. "Police kill bad guys. I kill bad guys." "You were going to kill me. I'm not a bad guy." "I was misled. Even cops have unwittingly killed innocents," Wolf replied. Once again he tossed more wood onto the fire. "But they answer for it, they grieve over it. Do you grieve, Wolf?" "No. I also don't have to do the paperwork." "Who have you protected?" Casey asked with curiosity. "A little kitten," he said, and smiled softly. Casey wondered at the now endearing look on his normally impassive face. "Do you like kittens?" "I like this one. She belongs to a friend of mine," Wolf replied. Casey noted with interest the thoughtful look Wolf wore. She decided he was talking about a woman, not an animal. He must hold great affection for her. "Do you love her?" Casey asked. She was thinking about what he had said, that they weren't so different. He had loved his dad. His father must have loved his mother. "She's like a sister. I don't have any sisters," Wolf told her abruptly. Casey watched as his thoughtful look turned to smoldering anger. "Did you have a sister?" Instead of answering, Wolf threw the large stick he was holding onto the blazing fire, and then turned. Casey watched 82
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him stroll off and sit down away from the flames. The day was hot as hell's blazes, and she was sweating from her exertion. She wandered over to sit beside him. For once, Wolf was not watching her; his mind seemed elsewhere. That alone piqued her interest. "What happened to her?" Casey asked quietly, understanding the look of grief. Wolf offered her a long, assessing look. She was genuinely interested; she could sense his distress and felt a certain amount of compassion. She could see his internal struggle and wondered if Wolf was resisting the urge to rise and walk away. He gazed off into the distance, his mind obviously reaching for a painful memory. When he began speaking, his words were soft, distraught, self-condemning, and painful. Casey prepared herself for obvious heartache. "When she was eight, she and I were playing at a small pond close to home. It was summer and we were going to look for polliwogs. It was such a beautiful morning. I was only a year older, her big brother. I stood a whole head taller than her and already outweighed her by a good thirty-five pounds. My father told me to watch her, to protect her when he left that day. It was something he always said while ruffling my hair and smiling at me, like he was proud of me. I never let her out of my sight; we were inseparable. I loved her; it made me happy to know my dad trusted me. "She was giggling, smiling, and so full of life as she skipped ahead, not too far, always turning back to look and see if I would give in to chase her. I always did, but I was faster. I let her win the race to the willow trees. I knew it 83
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made her happy—not because she won, but because I let her win. "As she turned, she reached to brush her long hair from her eyes. Her smile fell from her face, her bucket dropped to the ground, and she looked so frightened. I stopped right where I was, wondering what was wrong, feeling angry that something scared my baby sister. I remember balling my fists, spinning to look where her eyes had settled. The man came from out of nowhere, surprising me. "He was big, almost as big as my dad, almost as big as I am now. He backhanded me hard, and I flew into a tree, hitting my head. I was knocked out. When I came to, it was early afternoon. I crawled over to her. She wasn't moving. There was blood trickling out the corner of her mouth and nose. Her face was red. He had struck her, too. She was so small the blow had killed her. I picked her up and stumbled home." Wolf ended his story, his face once more impassive. "You couldn't have stopped him; you were too small, and so young. You're lucky he didn't kill you," Casey said kindly. She felt her eyes tear. What an awful thing to have happened. Casey had a better understanding as to why Wolf had wanted to kill her. He had thought she had murdered a helpless child, a female child, and one the exact same age as his poor little sister. It must have stirred deep feelings of rage within him. "I stop people like that now," Wolf replied. Abruptly, he rose from his position and stalked away as though angry with himself. Casey watched, feeling a deep sympathy for him as he viciously threw piece after piece of wood onto the blazing 84
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fire. Once again he had shut himself off from her. She rose quietly and left to get a drink from the waterfall, leaving him alone with his demons. Wolf stood staring as the flames of the large fire danced, the smoke swirling, heaven bound. Sweat poured from his forehead into his eyes, eyes that watered from the sting of the blaze, or so he told himself. He was angry with himself. He hadn't told anyone about that day since it had happened; he wondered why he had mentioned it now. Feeling unsettled, he admitted this particular job touched a sensitive nerve. The child, Abby, had stirred deep-seated emotions that floundered, unbidden, to the surface, looking for an emotional release. Wolf's father had tracked down his sister's killer. His revenge had consumed him. Wolf's father had killed people like him as well. Wolf felt he had let his father down. He had been told to protect his sister; he had failed. Wolf had vowed he would never again fail. Wolf's mother had died not long after. He thought it was because of a broken heart; his little sister had meant everything to his mother, her beautiful, baby girl, the family angel. She had been so sweet and caring, even at such a young age. She was their light, their little love, quick to offer a hug, a smile. To have died the way she had made no sense. It wasn't right. Wolf could feel his anger rage again. Wolf had never allowed himself the luxury of becoming close to anyone after that. He had been devastated, the pain was too great. When he thought of her, he felt he was dying. He could still picture her tiny, heart-shaped face, her fear, in his mind. Her doe-brown eyes had settled onto his in terror. 85
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It was his last memory of her, and it was heart-wrenching. He turned his emotions off, unable to bear the pain of his guilt. The child, Abby, had reminded him of his defenseless sister. Another cherub-faced girl to haunt him. Casey sat humming softly. She was beside their small fire, back at the waterfall. She had persuaded Wolf by cajoling and reasoning with him to take a walk while she once more washed. Feeling wary, she only removed one article of clothing at a time. When finished, she replaced it quickly, glancing about before she had removed another. Casey was threading her fingers through her hair to aid in its drying. At a small noise off to her left she stood, wondering if Wolf was returning. She stopped instantly and remained frozen as her eyes settled onto a wild boar that had come looking for a drink. Carefully she backed away, noting the large, angry looking tusks. She did not want to be gored to death. Seeing the subtle movement, the animal suddenly charged. Casey gave a piercing shriek; she turned and fled. The wild boar was not far behind. Crashing through the foliage, Casey ran screaming from this new adversary. She could hear it pounding closely behind her, making more noise than she was. She had seen once the damage these creatures could inflict. She spotted a low branch. She was hoping to climb the tree, but her foot caught under a protruding root, and she fell heavily to the ground, crying out. She covered her head, waiting for the inevitable attack. Casey heard the boar squeal suddenly in pain, and when she turned, she saw a disheveled Wolf standing over the now 86
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dead animal, a sharp stick protruding from its side. She sat up slowly, her chest heaving, her eyes wide and unbelieving. She had once more escaped death. "Sure, now you're helpless. Why didn't you conk it over the head with something?" Wolf drawled. Casey reddened, and then brightened. "What do think about a pig roast?" Wolf nodded. It was a fine idea. Gripping the animal, he hauled it up onto his shoulders. "Are you coming? Because you're cooking," Wolf said down to Casey, as she remained still seated on the ground. She scrambled to her feet. "Why do I always have to cook?" she asked up to Wolf as she walked beside him. "I killed it." "How did you get here so fast?" "I was watching you. When you ran, I ran." "Oh," Casey said, pondering. She stopped suddenly. "You watched me wash!" "I said I would leave, I didn't say how far I would go," Wolf said, chuckling. "You have a serious problem," Casey said, now annoyed. "It's a good thing I still think you're the most entertaining thing on the island to watch. Otherwise you might be dead," Wolf replied. True, Casey thought. "You're welcome," Wolf said to her after they reached their camp and he dropped the pig to the ground. 87
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Casey looked up at him, embarrassed. "Thank you for saving my life," she mumbled back. Wolf stared down at her, smiling smugly. Wolf watched as Casey chewed on a small piece of roasted wild pig. The bliss on her face told him she thought it was heavenly. As usual, he was watching her carefully. Casey ignored him. "How did you get here?" he asked her suddenly. "Our boat sank," Casey replied sarcastically. "And might I add I never would have been on that yacht if you hadn't frightened me." "I meant, how did you make it to this island? I'm a very powerful swimmer and even I was struggling the last little way," Wolf elaborated. "I had help from a friend," Casey said, and smiled secretly. "You washed up with someone else?" Wolf asked, confused. "Not exactly," she said evasively, with a faraway dreamy look. "Would you like me to beat it out of you?" Wolf said, his eyes narrowing. "You won't believe me." Wolf looked at her thoughtfully. She was no longer eating and she did not appear smug. "Try me," he encouraged. He was dying of curiosity. "A dolphin brought me to shore," Casey said. She was looking directly into his eyes, daring him to call her a liar.
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Wolf sat back, watching her. He could tell from her body language and facial expression she was telling the truth. "That would have been cool," he commented. "It was awesome," Casey said, now animated. "I never swam with a dolphin," Wolf told her. "I have, but never to save my life. Abby loved the dolphins, she couldn't wait to come back this year..." Casey stopped abruptly. Wolf could see the sadness now return to her face. "You better eat what you can. In this heat, the meat will spoil by morning," he said gently. "We should be able to have some for a day or two, if we cook it and store it in that small crevice behind the falls. It's cooler in there, but you're right; it won't last long. I can wrap it in some large leaves and hopefully it will stay dry," she said, and then sat quietly thinking. "What is it?" Wolf asked, taking note of her pensive, confused expression. "It just all seems so overwhelming. Last year I had a new husband, a new daughter, and I had never been happier. Today I'm sitting here eating a wild pig that almost gored me, with a man who was hired to kill me, by a man who professed to love me. Abby is gone. I wonder if David would have left me the minute I paid for Abby's college education," Casey mused sadly. She tossed the bones of her meal into the fire and wiped her hands on her shorts. "Marriage isn't all that it's cracked up to be," Wolf informed her. 89
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"Weren't your parents happy?" Casey asked. "You seem too young to be so cynical." "They were, for awhile," he replied. Wolf was becoming uncomfortable. He had never been around any one woman long enough to talk about personal things. When women got personal, he left. Out here, where would he go? It was Wolf who was now feeling trapped. An odd, foreign feeling he didn't like. "Until your sister died?" Casey persisted. "You ask a lot of questions, little girl," Wolf grouched. "My name is Casey. I am not a little girl. Why don't you ever call me by my given name?" "Too personal, you don't want to get too personal with me," Wolf replied. He fixed his features to be impassive, to let her know she was walking on thin ice. She sighed. "So do you think it might snow tomorrow?" she asked cheekily instead. "It's definitely getting chilly around here." "We could always heat things up," Wolf said with a sudden leer. He felt a divine intervention was called for on his part. If he kept her busy, she would no longer be questioning him and making him uncomfortable. Perhaps now it was his turn. "I thought you wanted to cool things down," Casey countered. "Maybe I changed my mind," Wolf said. "Should I start running again?" Casey asked nonchalantly, though there was a definite tremor to her words. "I would just catch you," Wolf replied, his hungry look boring into her eyes. 90
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"You promised not to rape me unless I told. Who would I tell out here?" "Who said anything about rape?" Wolf replied, and offered her the wolfish grin that unnerved her. Casey scowled at him; he knew she was wondering what he had in mind. Wolf could see her struggling to resist the impulse to run. The area around them was darkening quickly. She shuddered as Wolf rose and approached her. He moved easily, casually, trying not to intimidate her or frighten her. But he could see she was frightened. When Wolf sat beside her, she whimpered softly and shifted away. Easily, he pulled her closer. "You promised," Casey whimpered. Her large, brown eyes looked up at him with alarm. He offered her an easy smile of reassurance. "I won't hurt you...Casey." He said her name in a soft, caressing voice; he purposely allowed his accent to become more pronounced as his tone became sensuous. He could almost feel her skin tingle. Wolf dropped a careful arm around her shoulders. His finger trailed an easy path down her cheek. His forehead rested against hers while his eyes delved within her panicky glance. Her breath quickened, and for a brief moment, he could see her overwhelming need to escape. "What do you want?" she asked with trepidation, her fearful, imploring look settling onto his smoldering eyes. "You!" [Back to Table of Contents] 91
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Chapter Seven **** Casey tried once more to move away from him, but Wolf held her easily. His hands were not rough, but steady and strong as he gripped her to him, holding her closely. She struggled, trying to pull free, but he was too powerful. "Oh no, please no," Casey begged, pushing at him. Her eyes began to tear; she began to panic, sensing his intent. "Shh, it's all right. We could be here for a long time, Casey. We need each other," Wolf soothed compassionately. Very gently, he smoothed his hands up and down her tense back while he held her closely. He stroked her hair from her forehead and stopped two tears that fell from pale cheeks. Cupping her face within his palms, he looked deeply into her skittish eyes. "I won't hurt you. It's just so lonely out here, the emptiness is so overwhelming, especially when the sun goes down. It gets so dark, like we're trapped in some kind of hell, alone and cut off from everyone and everything. Doesn't the darkness make you crave the closeness of another? I feel the desperate need to connect with another living soul, a warm body. Don't you feel lonely, Casey?" Wolf coaxed, while his fingers traced over her face, trying to calm her. "I'm so frightened of you, you're so big," Casey cried, softly batting at his hands, still squirming to retreat from his large frame. 92
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"Don't feel frightened, sweetheart. I promise not to hurt you. I will be very gentle with you. Trust me. You can trust me," Wolf whispered into her ear. Wolf tilted her head and claimed her lips in a soft, tender kiss. Casey pushed at his chest, but knew it was hopeless; she would never be able to physically overpower someone so much stronger. Wolf continued to talk calmly to her, almost begging for her fear of him to lessen. His mouth trailed its way gently down her throat and over her shoulders that he had exposed, wanting to taste her. He nuzzled at her neck, breathing her in, his tongue dancing in tiny circles, laving her warm flesh. "Wolf," she whispered. Casey's body began shaking. "I'm here, Casey. I'm the only one here for you. I won't hurt you. I want you to want me," Wolf said. She no longer pushed at him, yet she still refused to respond. Her tears flowed freely; she was not fighting him, because she was afraid he would cause her serious harm if she invoked his wrath. "Please," she whispered on a choked breath. Casey lay docilely within his arms, though her small body still trembled while she whimpered pleadingly up at him. Her hands, fisted, pulled to her chest in self-preservation. She was remembering her friend's vivid description of what that horrible man had done to her when she had been raped, how much pain he had caused. How, terrified, she had screamed repeatedly. He had viciously slapped her face until she had quieted, only permitting her to sob softly and beg quietly. He had grabbed at her painfully, cruelly, while spewing vile, filthy 93
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words and she had been torn when he entered her brutally. He had threatened her with death if she ever told. Wolf had threatened her if she were to tell, he had implied he was going to rape her mercilessly if she ever mentioned his name. Yet, he was taking her now when he had promised not to hurt her. Casey waited for the pain to start. She waited for him to become ruthless, heartless. She waited for the harsh, evil words. But Wolf spoke soothing words, not threatening ones. His powerful hands were not callous or pitiless; they caressed her gently, with the utmost tenderness, and Casey became confused. Wolf had removed both of their shirts, gently pulling her tiny t-shirt over her head, then tossing it to the side to fall over his own, his broad, warm chest pressed securely to her, warming her from the chill of the evening. She felt a careful hand rub delicately around her breast while another arm held her tightly to him, yet not with brute force. Wolf eased her back until she lay flat beneath him; he stretched himself out beside her, a large leg thrown over her own. One arm cushioned the back of her head while his lips sought her dusty, rose-colored nipple and he suckled very lightly, tugging softly. His tongue played, licking at her before drawing her deeply within his mouth. He groaned heavily. "Wolf." "Casey, we are all alone together. All we have is each other, all we may ever have is each other," Wolf said as he once more sought her lips. He kissed her tenderly, exploring her mouth; his nose nuzzled her cheek. "I will protect you out 94
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here. I will keep you safe; haven't I already? You can depend on me. We need to take care of one another. Don't be frightened, sweetheart, please don't fear me." "Don't hurt me, please, Wolf don't...don't hit me," she begged. Casey tried deflecting his hands as they roamed her body. Each time an arm lifted, she cringed in apprehension, waiting for the first blow to fall. "No, sweetheart, no. I won't hurt you, I won't ever hit you. Your friend was hurt badly, wasn't she?" Wolf asked. Casey nodded and buried her head into his shoulder. Wolf cupped her face in his palm; his earnest eyes captured hers. His thumb stroked her cheek. "I won't do that to you. I won't be mean or cruel to you. I won't beat you, sweetheart. I will be very gentle. Feel my hands, Casey; they are gentle. You will be fine, I promise." His coaxing words penetrated her mind. Casey concentrated on what he was saying instead of the fear her friend had portrayed. Their circumstances were different. They were indeed alone; this wasn't some date that had gone horribly wrong. They needed each other to survive. They might be here for a very long time. She hadn't run from him, because she couldn't bear the thought of being alone. Would she be able to go for weeks and weeks or months without some type of human contact? Wolf was not hurting her. For all his previous threats, he had never hurt her. Each night he had lain beside her, keeping her warm, safe. She had welcomed his large body beside her nightly, enjoying his comforting presence, wanting to feel his close proximity. She could feel the slight tingle of 95
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attraction she had been fighting grow. Wolf was an incredibly handsome man. He was whispering she was the most beautiful enchanting woman he had ever met. His large, sensual hands were sweetly discovering her, not groping as an adolescent or overly enthusiastic sex fiend. He was being very gentle and patient, trying to discover what she liked. His large fingers threaded through her hair, bringing strands to his lips to kiss, telling her she smelt like sunshine and sweet wine. He paid more attention to the places he touched when she moaned instead of cringing from him or tensing. Even David had never been as caring or sensitive; the thought was so terribly confusing. End excerpt Her thoughts of David distressed her further. Was she to succumb to another who would fill her head with lies? But Wolf didn't want to marry her. He didn't need her money, or he would have finished her off for the payment David had offered. Her body's response to him disturbed her further still. There had been numerous times lately she had been filled with a certain attraction for him, those times she had hidden a blush and dismissed the idea. She felt betrayed by emotions as a soft sigh escaped her lips. One large hand caressed her sore ribs with a feather light touch. Casey felt his hands lower her shorts. He was still quietly encouraging a response from her. His fingers trailed slowly over her entire body, learning every inch. His warm touch turned to searing, sweet turmoil as he caressed her inner thighs. He pressed himself against her; his body was heated, satin steel. Casey calmed slowly. Every touch was 96
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beautiful, gentle, arousing, and sensuous. Wolf whispered exquisite, endearing words into her ear as he nuzzled her, and then nibbled on her earlobe. "Touch me, Casey," Wolf encouraged. Tentatively, Casey reached a hand to stroke his broad shoulders. His body was so hard and well muscled—a warrior's body, a body built for power, control. The feel of her fingers running over him was not unpleasant, she decided. She ventured her hands lower down his back, rubbing them in a circular motion, exploring. His behind, oh God! His sound, well-defined behind. Slipping her hands lower, Casey could feel the width of his well muscled thighs. No wonder he moved with such ease. He felt like a well-oiled machine, a very hot, powerful machine made for action. When Wolf captured her lips once more, Casey began her own hesitant search of his mouth. His lips, sweet and silky, were soft and warm, undemanding yet probing. His breathing became more hurried as he coaxed her to taste him. His words became more eager as she ventured her hand up to stroke at his face. Her trembling lessened. She buried her fingers into his thick, dark hair, which felt like the fine pelt of a panther, or a sleek dark wolf. "That feels so nice, Casey. Your hands are so soft, sweetheart, they feel so good," Wolf breathed out. "You taste so sweet, you are so sweet. Like honey dipped in a rainbow." Casey felt his fingers slip below her waist. She once more whimpered, unsure if she should let him continue, unsure if she should let herself continue. She again tried to shy away, 97
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once more feeling uncertain of him, of the intriguing feelings he invoked. "No, sweetheart, it's all right. I can feel you're ready for me. I won't hurt you. Everything will be fine, I promise," Wolf said passionately. Though tight, Casey could feel her molten, slick heat beckoning him, and she knew that at least physically, she was ready for him. Her body danced beneath his fingers. "Tell me you want me," Wolf coaxed. He gripped her chin tenderly and gazed deeply into her eyes, giving her the choice. She could stop him...she should stop him. Oh, God, she did want him. She nodded slightly, unable to do more as his fingers worked magic. Her breath nearly disappeared as he performed his act upon her. Casey felt a moment's panic as Wolf settled himself over her; he was so big and powerful, and dangerous. She felt him enter her slowly, cautiously probing, testing her depth. He rocked carefully within her, moving himself deeper at each easy thrust, watchful to keep his weight from pinning her. She knew he didn't want her to feel trapped or smothered. Casey moaned beneath him. She had never been taken like this before and sensations swirled within her, overwhelming her. He pulled out, teasing her opening, letting her decide if she wanted to continue the sweet torment. She became frustrated, unable to resist the need to satisfy the profound ache he'd created within her. Casey pulled him more snugly to herself, encouraging him to fill her. Wolf offered her loving 98
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words, moving cautiously. She felt his worry that she might become frightened once more. "Wolf," Casey cried out, pulling him tighter still. "Easy. I'm here, you're fine, Casey, you're fine," Wolf said in a soothing, deep voice. Casey's breathing became ragged as she moved beneath him, seeking her release. Wolf's gentle, unhurried lovemaking made her want more, want him. She gripped him as tightly as she could, her arms not able to stretch round the width of his broad back. She buried her face into the sweetness of his neck, where her tongue laved circles around his heated flesh. There had never been a taste so delicious. Casey began thrashing beneath him. She unlocked her mouth from his neck to pant, needing to breathe, but only gasping for air. Wolf was moving faster, harder; sweat beaded both their foreheads, bathing their writhing bodies in a fine sheen. He gripped her, thrusting wildly within her, his body now pinning her to the ground. Casey cried out. Her body shook as she clutched him to her. She lay, accepting his final, eager thrusts, feeling spent, and still she was reluctant for him to stop. He felt so warm, as his body continued to glide over hers. Her legs lifted higher, her knees resting against his hips, wanting to feel his full penetration. He continued his delightful torment, stroking her, his fiery hot breath blew lightly into her ear, until she moaned again, unbelieving, feeling her heart race once more. He demanded more of her; she gave herself willingly, wanting to follow where he led. She cried out her surprise as she once again felt her body close around him. Her knees 99
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pressed harder against his hips, clinging as one possessed. Her fingers dug deeply into his flesh. Her head rolled back and she screamed from a release she had never before experienced. Her body went rigid before she stilled. She went limp beneath him, unable to maintain her grip any longer. Satisfied, Wolf rolled to his side, breathing heavily, finally sated. As her body cooled, Casey lay quietly, feeling a deep confusion settle over her. Her rational mind seemed to kick in. She just had willing sex with a man who had been trying to kill her. How could she do that? Her eyes narrowed. "You seduced me!" Casey cried, suddenly outraged. To her great surprise, Wolf chuckled softly. "Yes I did. I told you I wouldn't rape you." Casey looked angrily into Wolf's smug face. She then lay back, angry with herself. She had allowed herself to be seduced. Yet, she had been through so much lately. She felt certain Wolf had played on her extreme vulnerability. She could see Wolf watching her as he propped himself up on his elbow, obviously wondering if the anger would rage or if the tears would fall first. She wouldn't give him the satisfaction— she did neither. Casey rolled over onto her side, away from him. Wolf moved closer to her and draped his arm around her middle. "It's not that awful, Casey," Wolf soothed. "We are all alone. This place is frightening. You were almost gored today." "So I owed you?" she asked quietly. "We owe each other. What if we're never found?" 100
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"If we are, then what will you threaten me with to keep me quiet?" "Did I hurt you?" Wolf asked seriously, his thumb stroking her cheek. "My body is unharmed, but my mind feels assaulted. How could I want a man who was going to kill me?" she asked, incredulous. "Think of it this way. Right now I am the last man on earth," Wolf reasoned. "But what if we are found?" Casey mused. "We go our separate ways with fond memories," Wolf said gallantly. "Yes, I can just hear the stories I will tell my grandchildren about my assassin lover," Casey said sulkily. "You're not supposed to tell anyone about me," Wolf reminded her. "No doubt by then you'll be dead. If you aren't, I highly doubt assaulting a shriveled up old lady will appeal to you anyway," Casey countered. Wolf chuckled, amused. "You have a point. I guess I can live with that." "Wolf?" Casey asked fretfully. "Yes?" "Do you plan on seducing me again?" she asked. "Many, many times, sweetheart." "But you won't hurt me?" "I won't hurt you, Casey." Sighing softly, Casey closed her eyes. She wondered at the man curled up behind her. He was an enigma. Casey also 101
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wondered if she minded being seduced, though that thought disturbed her. Feeling drained, Casey decided she would think about it come morning. She allowed Wolf to pull her even closer. As his body surrounded her, the darkness seemed to recede, as if Wolf overpowered it. She knew how it felt! When morning came, Casey ventured forth to wash in the waterfall. She was once again sticky and covered in sand. She removed her clothing, deciding it was useless to remain shy. Wolf had discovered every inch of her repeatedly during the night, until finally she had begged exhaustion. Only then had she donned her clothes, and with Wolf curled protectively around her, she'd slept soundly. She was not surprised when Wolf joined her. She did not shy away when he rubbed at her wet shoulders. His hands, though strong, were gentle, and he worked away the knots in her back, moving lower ever so slowly. Casey shivered as he lowered himself behind her to rub at her bottom, thighs, then calves. "Turn around," he commanded her, and she complied. Wolf worked his way back up, kissing her in intimate places, his tongue teasingly washing crevices the water did not reach, before once more standing before her. Casey looked up at him, her breath quickening. His eyes smoldered with hungry passion. Casey remained unconcerned. He had kept his word and had not caused her any pain. She raised her hands to clutch at his broad shoulders as he settled her back against a moss-covered rock. The waterfall flowed over the both of them, and Casey gripped him tightly, to steady herself, when he entered her. As before, he moved 102
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into her slowly at first, making certain she would accept him. She did. She found she couldn't resist him, nor did she want to. There had never been another man who could make her feel so incredibly passionate. She no longer felt any fear of him while he was gripped in the throes of his fervor. He spoke soothing, encouraging words to her. Casey felt certain he did his best not to frighten her. Casey knew, and Wolf understood, she would run forever while on the island if he were to cause her any harm. Wolf rocked steadily against her until her desire mounted. Only then did he increase his pace until they were both gasping and panting heavily. She could feel the moistness of the moss-covered rocks stroking her behind in a caressing fashion. It felt so strange to feel her entire body rubbed with softness at once. She shifted slightly and would have slipped if Wolf hadn't captured her to himself. With her feet out from under her, Wolf wrapped her slender legs around his waist, his penetration buried as far as was able up into her heat. Her head dropped to his shoulder, her tongue lapping at him, drinking in the water that landed over him, desperate from her thirst. She threw her head back, allowing the water to run between the both of them, creating an even greater slickness of refreshing moisture. Casey cried out his name, gripping his wet hair as she felt her tension build until it could build no longer; she surrendered to his touch, shuddering beneath him. 103
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Wolf gave a frightening roar of release, gripping her so tightly she thought her bones might be crushed, until he once again rocked slowly within her and finally stilled; his hands loosened his powerful grip. His head bowed, cuddling her forehead against his cheek. His powerful arms held her firmly to him. "Forever wouldn't be so bad," he quietly mentioned in her ear. "Forever and twenty children later," Casey informed him, distressed. "I don't want to get pregnant on an island with a man who is an assassin, a man who doesn't want to be a father or a husband. I am the one who takes all the risks, while you chuckle and think it's funny you are able to seduce me." Casey struggled until he settled her onto her feet. She pushed him away from her. Her hands slid down her body, ridding it of moisture; she then slowly started to dress. "I can send child support," Wolf told her. He dressed leisurely while watching as she made her way back to the fire. Casey sat and checked on the wild edible roots she was roasting in ash. She tried to ignore Wolf as he dropped down near her and watched her with a slight smile. Casey threw a handful of peanuts she had dug up at him. Wolf reached for one and cracked open the shell. He munched on it noisily. "If I get you pregnant, would you like me to propose?" he asked teasingly. "Marriage? No, thank you. Been there, done that. My last husband wants me dead. I don't want to wonder if my new husband might still oblige," she snapped. 104
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"We could always live in sin," Wolf teased. "How can you sin if you're an atheist?" she retorted. "I don't know, but we could have fun trying," Wolf said, and cracked open another nut. "No thanks. I think I would have my hands full with your baby, while running from my ex, who undoubtedly will try to kill me again," Casey snapped. "Hopefully, the child would not be around if he caught up to me. God only knows what he would do to the baby." She wrapped her arms around her knees, rocking herself. She knew David would never stop. Just because Wolf had not killed her, it did not mean another would not try. God forbid Wolf actually did get her pregnant. She couldn't imagine what would become of the child if she were murdered. She had no other living relatives, and she highly doubted Wolf would want the burden. Casey imagined Wolf holding a high powered rifle, all the while holding a baby on his back in a snugly! Her arms crossed protectively around her drawn knees, she turned from him, wanting to shut him out. Wolf was staring at Casey now, open-mouthed, having his own disturbing thoughts. She was right; he had wondered the same thing. Wolf felt positive David would try again...and again if necessary. Casey was very resourceful. David would not be satisfied until she was gone, whether or not she remained married to him. For some reason the thought of Casey, and his possible unborn child, coming to an early demise disgruntled him. She was right; he being able to seduce her no longer seemed so amusing. Damn! 105
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"I won't let him kill you," Wolf suddenly declared, surprising Casey. Startled, she turned to look at him. "How can you stop him?" she whispered. "I'll kill him," Wolf stated. "No. Don't you see? He is grieving. He's like a wounded animal. I can't forgive the lies he told you, but I understand his pain. I loved Abby too," Casey said. She began weeping. "Abby's passing was an accident. If you murder David, I will really be responsible for the loss of a life. Please don't. I couldn't live with the guilt. It would consume me." Wolf moved to her and gathered her shaking body against him. He was remembering another who was filled with compassion and humanity. He remembered her need to avoid causing another pain. He had respected her for it; he could do no less with Casey. "I won't kill him," Wolf promised. Gently, he stroked the back of her hair, thinking. The thought of how to keep her safe once they were found troubled him. He couldn't stay with her. She would be leading her own life. She would be unaware of how to keep herself safe from one of his kind. Even if he put the word out she was an innocent, there were others who could be contracted. Though Wolf did not love her, he was fond of her. He didn't want her to die because of another's delusions. The problem was indeed a quandary. Something he would have to consider to a great length. Wolf thought hard while Casey wept. It suddenly occurred to him he knew of a place. A safe place he could send her if they were rescued, an old debt. Though the circumstances 106
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were different, he knew the debt would be honored. He could then seek out David and figure out a way to stop him. Wolf pondered his motive. What if he needed the debt repaid at a later date with someone else? Feeling Casey trembling against him while her tears dropped to moisten his shirt, he decided that he would use the oath now. She should never have been placed in this position. She was an innocent, after all. Wolf dismissed all thoughts that nagged. Perhaps he was more than just fond of her. He cuddled her closer, still pondering. [Back to Table of Contents]
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Chapter Eight **** Casey felt tired and sluggish. They had again spent another long day tediously tending a signal fire as the days continued to pass slowly. Again, they were dismayed by the lack of planes and boats. The work was exhausting in the heat, surrounded by huge, engulfing flames. She ran a sweaty forearm across her brow and strolled towards the inviting, cool, blue-green waves of the enticing ocean, intending on cooling herself off. "Go to the falls," Wolf commanded sharply, approaching her, seeing Casey's intent. Casey stopped short in confusion. Wolf was dripping water; he had just recently exited the ocean, needing the same thing. "Why? There's water right there," she asked, surprised. "There's also a stingray right there," Wolf told her, and pointed. Casey shivered when she saw the huge dark shadow move slowly about, gliding, then turning effortlessly only a few feet away from her. It was a remarkable sight to behold. It moved as a bird would through air. Casey looked off into the foliage. It was early evening. The sun would not set for a little while; still she was hesitant to venture off alone. Feeling somewhat embarrassed, she could not shake the memory of the wild boar. 108
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Straightening her shoulders, Casey sighed, resigned. She would not tell Wolf she was afraid or he would ask her sarcastically if she would like him to babysit her as he had done that morning, when she had hesitantly ventured off alone for food. At times, Wolf had seemed to open up to her, telling her fantastic, funny stories, and other times he became annoyed with himself when he appeared not to want her gone from his sight. They had made love numerous times and, while he gripped her in his sexual frenzy, he was always gentle, sweet, a man who had needs, a man who seemed to need her. Casey was right; the man was an enigma, a somewhat annoying, large enigma. She wondered if even he knew or understood what he wanted. Casey approached their camp cautiously, watching for more wild animals. Relieved there were none, she cupped her hands to drink in a generous amount of water. She resolved to take Wolf back a cupful. The day was decidedly too hot; the breezy steam from the waterfall beckoned. Stepping into the small pool, she ducked her head under the cool, swiftly gushing stream, letting it slide across her back and shoulders. Lifting her face upwards, she allowed the water to flow into her mouth and down her throat. After a long moment she stepped back, feeling refreshed. She lifted her hands to squeeze out the length of her hair. She did the same with her drenched shirt, while her shorts clung to her body like a second skin. "Damn, I thought I saw smoke from a fire, and, baby, don't you look hot," Casey heard from behind her. Spinning 109
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abruptly, she stumbled, and would have fallen if the large, blond man had not captured her snugly to his chest, supporting her. He gazed hungrily at her breasts, which she now realized were well defined by the soaked t-shirt. "Here I thought I was all alone." Casey struggled as the blond man kissed her, hard; she felt his demanding tongue invade her mouth, trying to capture her own. Before long, he stilled his assault upon her lips to kiss at her cheek, her throat. His hot breath made her gag, and she lifted a hand to still his roaming. He held her within his grasp easily and chuckled. "Please don't hurt me," she begged. She pushed against his hard chest, but was unable to dislodge him. "Easy, baby, I'm not going to hurt you, I just haven't seen anyone for days, or has it been weeks now? You could be a little bit friendlier," the large man cajoled. He ran his hands over her body, grasping at intimate places. His hand cupped her behind, pressing her against his growing erection, rubbing himself up alongside her in a grinding motion. At the look of rapture on the man's face, Casey could see he expected her to be a whole lot friendlier. Her eyes darted about, searching for a way to escape. Wolf was bad enough, but Casey wondered if this man would even take the time to seduce her first. Not wanting to find out, she reached round behind her, desperately searching, and as the large man once more sought her lips, she grabbed up a fist-sized rock and cracked it into the side of his head. The man yelped, releasing her, and stumbling, backed off. Casey gave a hard shove to his midriff, sending him under 110
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the weight of the falls flow, where he floundered and gurgled when he inhaled a substantial amount of water. Casey was running, her bare feet pounding along the sand. It was not long before she heard the man panting after her, telling her how much trouble she was in, and what he would do when he got his hands on her. "Wolf!" Casey screamed as she reached the clearing and raced to his side. Coming to a skid and cowering behind him, she clutched at one of his arms, using him as a shield, pressing herself tightly against him, seeking his protection. Stunned, Wolf watched as the blond man from the boat barreled into the clearing, dripping wet. The blond man stopped, stunned. Casey realized it must have sounded as though she were calling out to a wolf, and he must be awaiting the unlikely appearance of wolves in the tropics. But she knew of one wolf. He was large, dark-haired, darkeyed, and seemingly enraged. Wolf moved in on the other man, fists balled, disengaging Casey from himself, keeping her well back behind him. "Well, now, wait just a minute, that girl just bashed me in the head with a rock!" the blond man exclaimed in his defense, holding out a hand. To his credit, there was fine trail of blood mixing with the water on his sopping wet hair, trickling from a gash on his forehead. "Welcome to the club," Wolf snarled sarcastically. "What did he do to you, Casey?" Wolf asked, never taking his eyes off the disheveled man. 111
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"He wanted me to be friendly," she said, crossing her arms over her chest, glowering. Wolf stopped suddenly. "Friendly?" He tossed Casey a confused look. "Your kind of friendly, only I doubt he would have been as nice when he was being as friendly as you," Casey said in her defense. She could see understanding dawn, and once more, Wolf's eyes narrowed dangerously. "This one is mine. Find your own. If you have a problem with that I would be happy to discuss it with you in great detail," Wolf threatened, his balled fists ready for battle. Casey was now smiling smugly at the blond man from a safe distance behind Wolf, feeling secure. "He never touched you on the yacht, did he? You made it all up," the blond man suddenly said, incredulous. "Now you wait just a minute, Wolf was going to..." Casey yelled, now enraged. The man was accusing her of being a liar; the look of open disgust on his face had her cheeks heat up with offended embarrassment. "I was going to propose again, but she got cold feet and panicked," Wolf interrupted, cutting her off quickly. Wolf turned and strode over to Casey, giving her a menacing look, his piercing glare no doubt intended to render her immobile. The predator had returned. She shied back at his intense look, immediately realizing her mistake, wanting to flee, but he must have sensed her intention and reached her quickly, gripping her to him firmly. 112
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Wolf pulled her almost viciously against himself, grabbing at her, entangling a hand in her hair and he whispered into her ear, "You said no one was to die because of you. If you tell him who or what I am, I will be forced to kill him. I will then wonder about you and how well you will keep your word once we leave here," he threatened with menace. Casey swallowed with some difficulty. She understood Wolf's meaning. After spending so much time alone with him in his heated embrace, hearing his kind words, getting to know him, she had almost forgotten what had brought them here. She looked up at him now with anxiety. "I won't tell." She found herself weeping once again as her body began to shake. Oh God, how could she have forgotten? She clutched at him, begging him to believe her. "I'm sorry, Wolf, please don't. It was a mistake. I'm so sorry, I won't forget again, I swear. Oh, please. I didn't think." Gripping her arm tightly, viciously, Wolf left the clearing, dragging her whimpering form behind him, back towards the waterfall. With each step his hold intensified, causing her greater pain. She cried out for him to loosen his grip. She stumbled, trying to keep pace with his long stride. With each step, Casey felt her fear mount until her anxiety turned to terror. Wolf was hurting her; he had never hurt her before. His malicious threats from before stormed her mind. She had almost told, she had almost revealed his secret when she had sworn not to. Oh God, what would he do to her, what was he about to do to them both? The blond man followed cautiously behind as they came to a small clearing. Once they arrived, Wolf callously tossed 113
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Casey to the ground before their small fire; she landed heavily. Wolf stalked off to get a drink. The blond man settled down opposite her. "He's a bit rough," the man commented with some concern. "You should talk," Casey snapped irritably while rubbing her arm, placing some of the blame directly onto him. Wolf's fingerprints peppered her upper arm, their impressions already beginning to darken. Her knee now also ached from the rough landing. Reddening, the man smiled at her sheepishly. "I just hadn't seen anyone for a while, it's awful to be alone out here." "Perhaps it wouldn't be so terribly awful," Casey commented under her breath as Wolf approached her. Though his face remained inexpressive, Casey became terrified at his intent. His hands were clenched into fists; his normally easy countenance was stiff. The fine hairs at the back of her neck rose, sensing extreme danger. Wolf dropped easily to the ground beside Casey and wrapped a snug arm around her as she tried to shy away. She winced when his hand clutched tightly on the red marks on her arm—which he had caused. She twisted in his grasp to remove his firm hold, but he only dropped it lower, still clutching her. A small dot of blood had appeared at her knee, spreading rapidly. Wolf took notice of both. "Sorry, sweetheart, you know how possessive I am; I guess I got carried away," Wolf said easily. 114
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"Yes," she mumbled, keeping her head lowered. She clamped her teeth together to keep them from chattering. She was thinking of what to do. The blond man was right before them, watching every move she made; she could see the conflict on his face, perhaps wondering if he should interfere. She successfully staunched the small flow of blood on her knee. His interference would only lead to his destruction; he had no idea the skills Wolf possessed. Every day she had witnessed more and more of his powerful moves and the swiftness at which he could dispense them. His alertness and cunning showed each time he demonstrated a move with a simple stick he casually retrieved from the ground, and the velocity at which he could strike. Her mind was reeling. How could she beg Wolf not to harm them while the blond-haired man was watching their exchange? She could not raise further suspicions. What could she do? She needed to try something. She knew Wolf was enraged; never before had he actually physically harmed her. Casey then rested her head against Wolf's chest, knowing he was seeking her submissive gesture. She remained compliant and completely complaisant against him. Her body trembled uncontrollably. Once more Wolf was extremely dangerous. The blond man's life was in her hands, she was certain. Casey's mind was assaulted with awful images of the man before her, dead and bloody. She knew she would be scarred for life if she witnessed cold-blooded murder, if Wolf even allowed her to live. "Wolf," she whimpered, clutching at him. She pulled herself more closely into his arms, running her soft hands 115
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over him, trying to placate him. She knew if she was completely submissive, he might just listen. "It's fine, sweetheart, it's fine," Wolf replied without any emotion. His eyes remained coldly centered on the other man. Casey's frantic breathing continued as she was wondering what Wolf was thinking. She clutched at him; she trailed her hands over his shoulders and neck. She thought for a moment her whispered pleading gave him a moment's pause as she whimpered she would do anything for him, anything, if he would just grant his mercy once again. She buried her face into his chest with her eyes squeezed firmly shut. "Wolf, oh please, Wolf," she begged again. The waiting was unbearable; she couldn't breathe. Her arms clasped around his back, easing their way down his body while she slowly rubbed her hands in small circles over his tight muscles. "So, what's your name?" Wolf casually asked the blond man. Casey collapsed against him with relief. "Todd," the man replied while watching Casey curiously. "Is she okay?" he asked, motioning towards her. Casey was practically curled up on Wolf's knee. He was stroking his hand up and down her back. She was beginning to calm. Her breathing was no longer erratic. Her eyes remained squeezed shut. She pressed her cheek against his chest; once more he was granting his mercy. "Yes," Wolf said shortly. "Are you sure? She looks pale," Todd said with some concern. 116
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"She'll be fine. You just gave her a bad scare. It takes awhile for her to settle; she's a timid little thing." Casey tensed in his arms, positive she heard a touch of humor in his mocking voice, and her relief almost overwhelmed her. "Timid? Yeah, sure," Todd mumbled, and rubbed at his head. Wolf cupped her face and tilted her chin up; his wry, authoritative expression met her eyes challengingly, as if daring her to disobey. "I'm hungry, sweetheart. Why don't you get my dinner ready?" Nodding, Casey crawled off, and dutifully began preparing the food she had found earlier. She realized she had a great deal of damage control to do and she held her tongue wisely at his somewhat derogatory, superior tone. She preferred to keep herself busy. She was battling nausea at what had almost transpired. While Casey once more baked clams, the two men settled back, talking. "So have you seen anyone else?" Todd questioned. "No, you?" Wolf asked. "Just you two," Todd replied. "I sure am happy to have found other people; I've been looking for days and days, wandering up and down the beach. I am decidedly tired of my own company. My depressing thoughts were getting on my nerves." "Seen any boats?" Wolf asked. "Not even one in the far distance. It's spooky, you know? Being trapped out here, someone should be looking for us by now," Todd said, and shivered. 117
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Wolf just slowly nodded his agreement. Casey knew no one would be looking for Wolf, missing him. He had claimed he had no family. Casey had also admitted to having no other relatives to worry at her disappearance; David wouldn't be volunteering any information unless he had to. Not long after, Todd smiled with gratitude as Casey handed him a generous amount of food on a bone plate she had made from the wild pig. She gave Wolf a larger share, and she sat empty-handed. "I'm not eating your portion, am I?" Todd asked her, looking concerned. "No, I'm fine; it's been hot all day. I can't eat when it's too hot," Casey replied. It was true, her tummy was still upset, but she had omitted the real reason for her deep anxiety. While preparing their meal she had time to think about her circumstances, becoming more distressed by the moment. Wolf had held her and made love to her, as had David. Wolf had whispered loving, beautiful words to her, just like David had. He had promised never to hurt her, just like David had, and now Wolf had turned on her, just like David had. Another man who had lied while caressing her, while using her body, her emotions, to meet his own needs. She felt dirty, soiled, and exploited. She was reminded of just who and what Wolf really was today. As she had grown to know him, she had felt he was even likable sometimes. Her flesh quivered with wanting his touch. She had tried to pretend they were alike; she tried to convince herself she wasn't afraid or concerned. Casey realized she had best stay, not only afraid, but concerned. 118
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Todd didn't realize his life was at risk. Casey did not want to slip, placing her own life and his in jeopardy; she now walked on fine shells. She could feel her tremors start to once again rampage at another betrayal. She knew she was about to cry and needed to flee. "Will you please excuse me a moment? I need some water." Casey rose to her feet. She had a lump in her throat and she backed away, feeling the desperate need to move. Wolf watched Casey leave for the falls. Her body was stiff, her movements mechanical. She stood by the falls with her head bowed. She made the pretense of cupping her hands for a drink. She used the water to wash her face, and Wolf knew she was crying. He also knew it would not take long for her to recover her wits and return. It didn't, and once more she stumbled back to his side. Her face was pale, but she seemed to have collected her thoughts. "This is good," Todd exclaimed, while stuffing food into his mouth. "All I've been eating are bananas. If I never look at another banana again it would be too soon." "Casey is very adept at finding food," Wolf commented. He handed Casey a large piece of his crab and encouraged her to eat. He knew she liked crab, but found it difficult to remove it from the shell. Wolf had wryly commented he found that hard to believe, as she was so good at bashing things. Casey nibbled it slowly, absently. Her normally expressive face showed no outer emotion, which was in itself a surprise. It was usually Casey who asked all of the never ending questions, but she remained stubbornly silent. 119
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Wolf knew by watching her she was still frightened; her body language was something she couldn't hide from him. Her shoulders curled inward in a defensive, protective position, her small hand shook ever so slightly. He had scared her terribly this afternoon. Wolf hoped it had worked. He didn't want to hurt her; he had been dismayed at the marks forming on her arm. He hadn't realized his grip had been so tight. He was furious with himself. He had been the cause of her bleeding. He hadn't meant for her to be injured. Wolf had no interest in killing people he was not contracted to; the people he went after were loathsome, vile, disgusting murderers who killed at random; they preyed on innocents. He had no interest in ending Todd's life. He realized if he killed Todd in front of her, Casey would never talk. More than likely she would be so traumatized she would never speak again in her life. Besides, the man before him was harmless; it would be a shame to have to end his life. He was an innocent, after all. Wolf realized he would be able to frighten him into silence, yet it could get messy, brutal. Men were harder than women. He also couldn't blame him for wanting Casey, as long as he never touched her again. "So, you two known each other long?" Todd asked between large mouthfuls. "Long enough," Wolf replied. He handed Casey a clam that she dutifully accepted. Todd watched the exchange between the two. It was easy for Wolf to see that Todd knew Casey was afraid and also that he, Todd, wasn't the cause. Wolf's fingerprints were still vivid 120
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on her arm and a nasty bruise was just peeking from under her shirt on her ribs. She winced when she tucked her legs beneath herself, favoring her one knee. Wolf saw Todd's eyes dart to the bloody wrapping around her toe. "So, you're getting married?" Todd asked. Wolf could tell the man knew Casey was still fearful. He sensed his curious concern. He knew he needed to settle this, now. "Yes," Wolf replied shortly, his impassive look settled on Todd in a somewhat challenging manner. Casey slumped beside him. He considered that not only would she have to pretend she did not fear him, she had to act like she was in love with him. But, Casey had promised him anything; if she broke her promise she would be afraid of what Wolf would do. She was going to have to play the part to the best of her ability. He knew she would. Wolf threw his empty shells and the other remains of his dinner into the fire; he set his bone plate off to the side. He then pulled Casey close with both large arms. She smiled up into his face and pressed herself against him. Wolf leaned down and kissed her tenderly. Casey stayed completely submissive, allowing him whatever he wished. Wolf took note as Todd noticeably relaxed and realized he was no longer speculating about Casey. Wolf would have to be careful. They would be in tight quarters until rescued. He was going to have to keep Casey fearful, yet not enough that she would eventually run screaming from him in terror. This was an inconvenience. Damn! 121
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It wasn't long before night closed in once more on the survivors. The men had gathered enough wood to last well past the night and into the morning. Casey settled next to Wolf. She had no choice; for the most part his hands remained within close proximity, as if to stop a hasty departure on her part. But Casey was no coward; she would not abandon Todd to Wolf's wrath. She yawned. It had been a long day and she was exhausted. She hoped now that Todd was here Wolf would leave her alone. Though his lovemaking proved fascinating, Casey admitted to herself she felt overwhelmed by him. He seemed intent on possessing every inch of her. Blushing, Casey also admitted to herself she liked the feel of his powerful, yet gentle hands on her. However, when she gazed upon her sore arm, she realized also that his powerful hands could hurt. Her knee ached as well, and she tried to stretch it out. Wolf had hurt her when he had said he wouldn't. Every time he had seduced her, she had listened when he had voiced he would cause her no harm. The thought resounded through her head, his betrayal ate at her. She knew she had slipped, yet he had stopped her. He hadn't needed to hurt her so badly or frighten her the way he did; a stern warning would have sufficed. She was once again terrified of him. Casey lay herself down and listened as the men conversed. Todd was a very curious man, yet liked to talk more. She was positive Wolf would know his whole life's story shortly. Casey wondered about the red-headed woman. She heard Todd say he was also to be married, and then he launched 122
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into a detailed description of his fiancee. She had suspected it hadn't been the voluptuous red-haired girl aboard the yacht. More likely he had come aboard ship hoping to have a last fling. Hopefully, it was a last fling. The poor man's fiancee. Men! She would never understand them. Perhaps that was not such a bad thing, she surmised. Casey closed her eyes and, with a heavy heart, she slept. [Back to Table of Contents]
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Chapter Nine **** Casey awoke to Wolf's hands roaming over her body. She tensed beneath him; a whimper escaped her lips before she could quell it. "Easy," Wolf soothed. "But, Wolf...Todd," Casey said, full of embarrassment. "Todd has been encouraged to take a long walk," Wolf replied. Smoothly he rolled her beneath himself. "Wolf," Casey whispered up at him pleadingly. "How would it look if two young lovers didn't need time alone?" Wolf inquired. Casey lay beneath him submissively, although this time she knew it would be different. Her mind was in turmoil, recoiling from her disturbing thoughts. She remained unmoving and quiet; her arms lay limp at her sides. She knew Wolf would not become physically violent with her, preferring to seduce her. She also knew he would not be able to encourage a response this time. He had hurt her yesterday. She could see the bruising that had formed on her arm; as Wolf raised her knees gently, she took note one hurt and remained blood-smeared. She let her tears drop, but offered no sound as his hands continued to fondle her body, removing her clothing. The coaxing, sweet words he always whispered she knew now were false. He would not protect her, or take care of her. 124
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She would not be fine. If she angered him, he would kill her without mercy. He was, after all, an assassin, a killer. Casey tensed as Wolf felt for her readiness with a careful, probing finger. Her hands balled into fists at her sides, she gritted her teeth. She was not ready for him. She did not want him. She began to shake, feeling repulsed as he moved closer to her. His lips, as always, trailed tenderly down her throat. He nuzzled at her neck. He breathed her name soothingly into her ear. She could feel his heat gently pressing against her slowly, cautiously. She moaned as he moved over her, teasing as always, while he waited for her willing acceptance. She could feel her body's traitorous response; her arms almost lifted of their own accord to clasp him tighter, but her mind would not give in to the pleasure he still invoked within her. Her tears flowed steadily as mind and body battled; she did not want him, she decided. Her mind won the battle... or did it? She sobbed at the thought, overwhelmed with confusion. She tried to remain quiet, not wanting to draw unnecessary attention to her taut features. She hoped he would stop his silly attempts at seducing her and just finish swiftly. Wolf looked down into Casey's pale face, realizing something was seriously wrong. She looked as though he were hurting her. She was crying softly, her lips clamped shut to stop any noise. Her eyes were squeezed closed. Her body remained tense and rigid beneath him. "It's all right, Casey, you're fine," Wolf soothed, trying to calm her. 125
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She remained quiet. He continued to rub at her body tenderly, although she still remained tight and unyielding. Her chin began to quiver; a sob escaped her lips. Feeling tremendous concern, Wolf removed himself from on top of her and once more tried to arouse her. He gently kissed at her tears. He stroked her, and again he was whispering encouraging words. This only brought about more sobbing, and his concern and confusion mounted. "Casey, sweetheart, what's wrong? I thought you liked this. You're so beautiful. Please don't cry. I'm here for you; don't be afraid, nothing can hurt you." "Just do it," Casey finally whispered. Her eyes remained closed . Her breathing was ragged from her weeping. "I won't hurt you," Wolf coaxed, stroking the hair from her face. "You already have," Casey sobbed. When she opened her eyes to look at him, Wolf was startled to see her pain was impaling. "I will do as you say to save his life. I will play your foolish games. I will accept you, but I will never want you willingly again. Go ahead, take me. That is all you do, take. Take lives, take me." Casey pulled her hands up to cover her face. Wolf moved away from her, and she pulled herself into a tight ball. She continued to weep. "Get dressed, Casey," Wolf said softly. Still swiping at tears, Casey dressed and headed for the falls, stumbling. She stepped under the water fully clothed and gave in to the heart-wrenching sobs she needed to express. She realized she had allowed herself to get too close to him; this was her own fault for being so damned naive. 126
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When finally spent, she emerged, exhausted, and she returned to their small fire, where she noted Todd was now sitting, conversing with Wolf. She lowered herself to the ground and sat with her head bowed. "Are you all right, Casey?" Todd asked with concern . "I don't feel very well," Casey whispered. Her head was pounding. She ached inside from her hurtful emotions. Once more lying down, she curled into a tight ball. Her arms covered over her face, and weeping, she soon retreated into the safety of slumber. "Poor little thing, she must be so scared out here. It's a good thing she has you to depend on. I know my own fiancee; if she were alone or with strangers out here she would just curl up and die of fright," Todd said with pity as Casey's tears dried upon her face. Wolf scowled. Casey wasn't just with strangers; she was out here with a man who was sent to kill her, a man who had seduced her and threatened her life and the life of another unless she obeyed. Wolf had frightened her, all right. He had implanted his wrath so deeply within her that her mental health was suffering. But that was what Wolf had wanted, he thought, to frighten her into keeping quiet. Looking at her defeated form, Wolf realized two things. He could no longer seduce her because he had physically hurt her, when he had promised not to, and he would not force her. The thought sickened him. Also, he was hungry, and she was the one who found and cooked the food. Damn! 127
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Wolf had outsmarted himself. "I guess maybe bananas and mangos aren't so bad after all," Todd mused, as his tummy rumbled. He rose to his feet, intent on looking for sustenance. "Think she'll be feeling better by dinner?" he asked Wolf. Wolf glared dangerously up at him. Todd walked hurriedly away. When Casey woke it was early afternoon. She slowly pulled herself into a sitting position, rubbing on the sand that had dried on her clothing. Casey was beginning to loathe sand. Right about now snow would be welcome. Sighing, she jumped when she spotted Wolf across from her, watching her intently; she was unable to discern his look. Casey bowed her head immediately and wrapped her arms protectively around herself. She glanced about in an obvious search for Todd. He was not around. "We need to talk," Wolf informed her. He had been watching her sleep, growing more concerned as the hours passed. Her body had remained completely motionless while curled within her tight ball. Wolf had been wondering if she had shut entirely down. He had witnessed others do that before, battling fear so great their minds takes them to a place that is unreachable. Threat of death does not exist, pain does not exist. They, in fact, no longer exist. He was relieved she had awakened. "Fine, let's talk." She interrupted him before he could continue. "You tell me when you take me you won't hurt me, but look at my arm. It hurts when I move it. You say you will protect me, but what good is that when I need someone to 128
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protect me from you? You say you will be gentle, but you dragged me through the jungle and then threw me to the ground and made me bleed. "Before, your words were so comforting to listen to, but you lie. I know that now. You are keeping me alive for company. When a boat comes you will kill me, won't you? And Todd? Our lives mean nothing to you. My life means nothing to you, I am nothing to you. Why don't you just get it over with?" "Is that what you want?" "I want to go away, Wolf. I don't even have a home to go to anymore. I think that was why I so willingly listened to your kind words. I so desperately needed kindness. Whether David kills me or you do, what does it matter? I can die now or later. We both know he will try again, even if you do permit me to live," Casey said. "I can't let you tell who or what I am," Wolf told her. "I promise you I will spare your lives if you swear you will say nothing and mean it." Casey summed him up, wanting so badly to believe, but either way knowing in the end she had no choice. "I won't tell Todd, I don't want him killed. If it makes you feel better, you won't have long to worry if I will talk once we get rescued. David will take care of that if you don't," Casey said. "You could hide," Wolf suggested. "No. Where could I go that another like you wouldn't find me? But I would like to thank you. You could have killed me already without compassion. You could have hurt me very badly when you took me, but instead you were patient and 129
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gentle. I think I know why. My friend and I still don't have that in common. I will still play whatever games you want to keep Todd alive, but please don't expect me to believe your lies anymore. We both know I am not safe with you, we both know you will not protect me or keep me from harm. I won't fight you. I can't, I'm too afraid." "You swear you will say nothing to Todd?" "I will not be responsible for his or anyone else's death, I swear on my parents' graves," Casey vowed. Wolf could see she was earnest. He had originally spared her life because he believed she was no liar and an innocent. He believed her now. Her pale face was drawn and haggard. She looked so alone and afraid. She was lost. He was moved to take her into his arms to console her. Wolf gathered her shaking form closely, knowing he was the cause of her great fear. She recoiled from him as he once more pressed against her bruised arm. "Oh," she cried out in pain, controlling the tears that once more threatened. "I won't hurt you ever again, sweetheart, I swear it," Wolf was compelled to say. He shifted her against himself. Gently he stroked at the angry marks. He could tell Casey did not believe him. She perhaps once again felt it was his lame attempt at seducing her. She remained tight and unyielding in his arms, until Todd ventured back into camp. At once, Casey relaxed in Wolf's grip and even reached for him, returning his embrace. When Wolf kissed her forehead, she reached up to trail a slender hand down his rough face. 130
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"You need a shave, handsome," Casey remarked, playing the dutiful lover. "Oh, thank God. You look so much better," Todd exclaimed in obvious relief. His tummy rumbled in protest. "I'm sorry about that, I was just feeling a bit overwhelmed from yesterday," she replied. "Look, I really am sorry. I don't usually come on so strong...well at least not nearly that strong. I was just so happy to see you. I'm sorry I scared you so badly," Todd apologized, looking somewhat chagrined. "It's all right," Casey replied a bit tightly. Todd naturally assumed her great fear had been caused by him. He had no idea what peril he was in. Warning him would cost him his life. Casey removed herself from Wolf's embrace and rose shakily to her feet. "Where are you going?" Wolf asked. "To find something to eat; I can hear both of your bellies rumbling," Casey said, smiling. Wolf noted she could not encourage the smile to enter her tired, fearful eyes. "I'll come with you," Wolf said, beginning to rise. "No," Casey exclaimed, stilling his movement. Then replied, "I mean, you just relax, honey. I'm a big girl, I don't need a babysitter." Wolf studied her. He remembered he had asked her yesterday if she wanted him to babysit her while she sought food and she had been overcome with embarrassment. She was still smiling at him, but he could see the stirrings of defiance in her eyes. 131
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Perhaps it would be best to allow her some time alone. He had no doubt she would return. Inwardly, he was impressed with her tenacity once more. After everything she had been through, she was still able to bounce back, although he was unwilling to give her the upper hand so readily. "That's fine, sweetheart, Todd can stay and keep me company," Wolf said, making sure Casey understood the underlying threat. She bowed her head, the defiance leaving her eyes. "I won't be gone long," she said, and moved off. Casey wandered the shoreline, searching, yet not searching for anything edible. The clams were easy to find. She gave a wide berth to the dead jellyfish that rolled in and out with the gentle waves caressing the shoreline. She sighed. It was such a beautiful day. Not one cloud dotted the crystal clear, blue sky. Casey became thoughtful. She realized, while pondering her dilemma, Wolf would not kill her or cause her greater harm, at least until they were found. He appreciated her aptitude at finding sustenance. He also did not want to be left entirely alone. She could understand the concept; she would hate to be out here all alone. She knew Wolf would not have allowed Todd to hurt her, though felt that was more of a possessive thing, not a protective instinct. She realized she would have to keep up the pretense of wanting Wolf close whenever Todd was around, to keep him from becoming suspicious. Casey felt overwhelmed, knowing the fate of another's life was in her 132
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hands. She didn't know how Wolf could make an occupation of it. Casey came to a small group of large rocks sheltered in an alcove. It was shaded and cool. The area was pleasant and she stopped for a moment, hearing a curious splash. Luck was on her side. The sizeable fish had been trapped with the tide and swam in about two feet of water in the tiny alcove. She watched it warily for a moment while it thumped its tail in obvious aggravation. She would need to exercise extreme caution. Placing her clams down, she grabbed up a large piece of bamboo and crept slowly into the water. She wiggled her toes, disturbing the sand beneath them and immediately caught the fish's attention. As the fish surfaced, moving towards her, Casey swung hard and smashed the bamboo club over its head, rendering it senseless. Using both hands, she dragged it up over the cluster of rocks and onto the beach. It began to flail about once lain on the hot sand, its teeth seeking her ankles or calves. Using her club, Casey whacked it hard again, then again, releasing her built up frustration. When she finished, the battered fish lay still, pulverized. It was dead. Casey stood, smiling triumphantly, breathing hard. "See, I told you she would be fine," a voice sounded from behind her. Casey spun about and noted both men watching her. Todd was open-mouthed, Wolf just smirked. "I hope you're hungry," Casey said. Now she wouldn't have to lug the large fish back all alone. 133
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"Starving," Todd replied, still appearing dumbstruck as he gazed at the dead fish. "Why do I feel suddenly fortunate all I got was a rock to the head and a headache?" Chuckling, Wolf threw the fish over his shoulders, while Casey retrieved the clams. "You got off easy, buddy. You should try fending off logs and coconuts," Wolf said, amused at Todd's expression. Todd looked at him curiously, shrugged, and then followed them both back to their camp. [Back to Table of Contents]
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Chapter Ten **** Casey sat munching contentedly on a piece of fish. She had cooked it over their fire in large, thick pieces draped over sticks. She couldn't help but offer a small smile to Todd as he ate enthusiastically, regaling her to be the best cook in the entire world. "You're just saying that because you're hungry and tired of bananas," Casey said, though she smiled as he beamed widely at her. "No, I'm serious. You cook better than anyone I know, even my fiancee," Todd declared. "Your fiancee would be distressed to hear you say that," Wolf said, sounding a little annoyed. "No, she would back me up and be proud of it. Jackie couldn't cook to save her life. On a good day she can get a toaster to work...with my help," Todd replied and chuckled fondly. "You must miss her a great deal," Casey said. "Yeah," Todd replied, looking thoughtful and a bit surprised. "I really do miss her. Both her parents are deceased and her Uncle Roger keeps a close eye on her. I think the man's a bit suspicious of me. She's loaded, after all. But it's not her money. She puts up with me; she really loves me, faults and all. It took three tries proposing to her before she finally gave in. She was tough. Not as tough as you 135
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though, Casey. You really had me going on both boats. First saying Wolf was bothering you, and then claiming he had assaulted you. So, Wolf, how did you finally convince her?" Casey stopped eating, her face alight with concern. Wolf casually draped his arm around her and she battled the need to recoil. She recovered nicely. "Charm and persistence," Wolf drawled. "More like brute strength and evil manipulation," Casey replied as sweetly as she could, unable to resist. Todd howled with laughter. "You and Jackie would get along great. She told everyone I twisted her arm. But she finally got tired of my begging," Todd said, still laughing. Wolf dragged Casey closer to himself and kissed her. She returned it as though eager. She would have liked to bite him. When Wolf broke the contact she played her part well. She stroked back a lock of his hair that rested on his forehead. Her fingers trailed down the side of his throat. Wolf captured her hands and sucked on one finger. He released her finger to lick and suck a trail down her hand to her wrist. As his gaze intensified, her defiance turn to worry. "I'd offer to make myself scarce, but it's getting too dark," Todd said a bit sheepishly. "Don't worry, I just want to play for awhile," Wolf replied. His eyes remained centered on Casey. He looked at her hungrily. His passion for her began to make her uncomfortable . Casey pulled herself closely into Wolf's arms, hiding her face against him. She had seen the scheming look that 136
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crossed his face. She lifted her chin to gaze at him. When he impassively returned her look she once more buried herself against him, but was unable to stop the small tremors that shook her body. "I could always get myself a long drink of water," Todd mentioned casually, though he offered Wolf a conspiratorial look and a wink. Casey thought about that. Even though Todd would not technically be watching, he would be close, and she would still be forced to act her part in case he glanced over. She quivered against Wolf. He was rubbing his hands up and down her back. "Don't bother, Todd. After today I think she just needs to be held," Wolf said on a soft sigh. Casey couldn't help her small whimper of gratitude and relief. Wolf pulled Casey down on top of himself as he lay back. He continued to rub at her back and over her hips. Casey lay motionless except for the one hand visible to Todd. She used it to stroke Wolf's chest. Wolf's hands were gentle and he kept them away from intimate places, intent on calming her. Before long, she stilled and drifted to sleep. Turning her beneath him, Wolf rolled her under himself while keeping his body pressed tightly to her side. Cushioning her head under his arm, he cuddled her face into his chest. He gazed down into her serene expression and kissed her forehead. Wolf tenderly brushed her hair from her cheek and nuzzled her neck, breathing in her sweet scent. She was so warm and soft. He molded his body to contour hers, enjoying the way she fit so perfectly against him. 137
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"You love her a lot, don't you?" Todd quietly asked. Startled, Wolf realized that Todd was still sitting across from them. He had forgotten about him and had not been putting on a show for his benefit. He missed Casey's tentative caresses. Every time Wolf touched her now she cringed, unless it was for Todd's benefit. Wolf became angry. Casey no longer wanted his touch now that Todd had arrived. Because of Todd, he'd had to frighten her and now she wanted nothing to do with him. Even now, while seeking a quiet moment, Todd was interfering. "Maybe you should roll over and get some rest," Wolf told him, his voice deep and rough. Though Wolf kept his face impassive, he knew Todd felt intimidated by him. Wolf's eyes bored right into him. Though Todd was a large man, he still was not built nearly as powerfully as Wolf. The Alpha male was exercising his dominance. He watched with satisfaction as Todd rolled over and closed his eyes. When Casey woke, she found herself nestled in Wolf's arms. She began to pull away; Wolf gripped her tighter, almost painfully. "Don't move," he hissed. Casey was terrified of the look on his face. His glare was ferocious, awesome. She had never before encountered such a deadly stillness. Then she noted Wolf was not staring at her, but in Todd's direction. She turned her head, now wary, expecting something...awful. Casey would have jumped to her feet, but Wolf held her securely, anticipating her reaction. She whimpered and began trembling. 138
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"Easy, sweetheart, stay calm," Wolf soothed. "If you panic and move too quickly, you will startle it." Casey buried her face into Wolf's chest and clutched at him, trying to pull him closer. The snake was huge, bigger than she was, definitely longer than Wolf, and she'd bet it outmatched her in weight, perhaps coming close to Todd's mass. Casey was uncertain of its kind, but knew these parts had venomous snakes. For now it remained motionless, its head up, empty dark eyes watching, its tongue flicking in, out. Wolf shifted ever so quietly and pulled Casey beneath him, his large body shielding her completely. "Listen to me. I want you to crawl out from under me and move away very slowly," Wolf whispered into her ear. He shifted again, still moving cautiously, while now resting on the other side of her, barring the snake's view. Casey was loath to release him, but did as he commanded. She painstakingly made her way out from under him and, on her belly, she moved away. Her heart pounded against her ribs as she slid over the ground, farther and farther from Wolf. Sobbing softly, she clawed at the ground before her, pulling herself along, wondering if at any moment the snake might strike. Her toes pushed into the ground and her injury began to ache. She wondered if she were bleeding again and hoped snakes could not smell blood. "Run!" came Wolf's sharply spoken command. Casey was up in a second and fleeing to the falls. Wolf's command woke Todd, who had been slumbering, oblivious to the danger. Upon seeing the large snake directly 139
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before him, he panicked and jumped to his feet with a loud, frightened howl. Wolf yelled a warning but it was too late; the reptile was startled into action. The snake launched an attack, connecting with Todd's thigh. Todd screamed in fear and pain. Wolf was on his feet in less than a heartbeat and struck a solid blow to the snake's head with a hammering punch from a hard fist; he stopped it from attacking once more. Wolf battered at it repeatedly, making sure it never moved again. Todd slipped to the ground, holding his bloody thigh. "Oh God, I'm dying," Todd whimpered brokenly. His round, terrified eyes fixed on his injured thigh. "You're not dying," Wolf told him calmly. "Casey! Bring some water." "Please, when you get rescued make them take my body home. I can't stay here all alone again," Todd whimpered, clutching at Wolf's shirt in panic. "Todd, you are not going to die, unless you irritate me. Then I will be forced to kill you," Wolf said grimly, disengaging the man's fearful, clawing hands. Casey dropped down beside the men, giving the dead snake a wide berth. She handed Wolf a halved and emptied coconut filled with cold water, and looked with dismay upon Todd's bloody thigh. It was a nasty bite. Poor Todd was sobbing, begging them to tell his fiancee he loved her, and his last thoughts were of her. "Give me a piece of your shirt," Wolf commanded her. Casey looked down at her shirt with some dismay. She was already revealing more than she wanted to after stripping 140
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a piece off to aid her injured toe, as well as the numerous holes and snags she sported from their constant collection of wood. "Why not your shirt?" she asked Wolf. Todd was thrashing around, whimpering. "If he goes into shock I might need my shirt to drape over him to keep him warm, and mine is larger. Unless you want to remove your entire shirt," Wolf said, daring her to disobey. Casey ripped off a piece of her shirt. After dipping the cloth into the water, Wolf carefully wiped the blood from Todd's thigh. The nasty red marks would no doubt leave a hideous bruise. Casey tried to calm him, holding his hand and speaking gently. The tooth marks went deep. Todd's face was as white as ash; he was sweating profusely and he looked horrible. If Todd died she would again be left all alone with Wolf. "You'll be fine, honey, don't worry," Casey soothed while rubbing Todd's forehead. "It hurts," Todd moaned. "I know, but it will get better. You'll be fine," Casey promised and continued to stroke Todd softly, calming him while Wolf made a thorough inspection of the bite. She looked at Wolf, and he reached to place a hand on her shoulder, reassuring her. "He'll be fine, sweetheart. It wasn't a venomous snake, but the bite is bad. He could use some stitches. When I yanked the snake off, part of his thigh ripped. He could really use some antibiotics or a tetanus shot." 141
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"I'm scared," Casey whispered. Todd now lay quietly, unmoving but moaning softly. His eyes were squeezed closed. "You need to stay calm for him. As long as we remain calm we can keep him from going into shock," Wolf said. "What should we do?" she asked. "We start by making him as relaxed as we can." Casey and Wolf made Todd as comfortable as possible, using ferns as a bed. They propped his head up, using a rock covered over with moss, small sticks, and soft foliage. They did their best to elevate his thigh. Wolf removed the dead snake, taking its body far away from their camp at Casey's request. Casey continuously bathed his injured thigh with the cool water from the falls until she was satisfied it was as clean as she could make it. Finding a sharp rock, Wolf removed long strips from his jeans after slicing them at the knee, enabling them to wrap Todd's thigh after they had stopped the bleeding. "How are you feeling?" Casey asked Todd as she ran a cool hand down the side of his face. Evening was approaching. "Sore," he said. Casey smiled at him and resisted the urge to give him a cuddle. Instead she massaged his chest. Now that he was more settled and Wolf was positive the risk of shock had passed, Casey noted with some dismay Wolf occasionally shot the man glaring looks. She was beginning to worry Wolf might think him a burden and do away with him, although she wondered at the logic in her thought when it had been Wolf who had originally come to his rescue. Wolf could have run. He also could have 142
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abandoned her as well. Instead, he had put her safety first. The idea brought about deeper confusion. Wolf had calmed her down as well by taking control of the situation. It had been his idea to use strips of his pants to hold the jagged gash on Todd's thigh together. Nevertheless, Casey had doubled her efforts to take all burdens off Wolf. When Todd asked for water, Casey raced for it. When his back ached, she rubbed it. When Todd whimpered, she soothed his worries and tenderly kissed his forehead. Wolf's foul mood seemed to increase at the added attention she was giving Todd, not lessen. Casey's confusion mounted at his puzzling actions. "What can I do to make you feel better?" Casey asked Todd, and stroked a lock of his blond hair from his eyes. "I am kind of hungry. We haven't eaten today," Todd reminded her, pouting. Casey chuckled. She was taking care of a two hundred pound baby. "Sure, I can find you something, honey." Casey rose to her feet, still smiling. She approached Wolf, who was watching her with an odd expression on his face. "I'm going to go find some food for us. Todd is hungry and I think that's a good sign, don't you? I won't be long. He just had some water and I've encouraged him to try and get some rest. He should be no trouble." "Do you want me to burp him?" Wolf said. "You don't need to do anything for him, I'll take care of him," Casey said with worry. Wolf looked angry about something. She tried to stress again that Todd would cause him no trouble. 143
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"He's watching us, sweetheart," Wolf said and before Casey could turn and look, Wolf captured her lips in a passionate kiss. Casey kissed him back just as eagerly, assuming she was being watched. Wolf kissed her thoroughly, only releasing her once breathless. "I won't be long," Casey mumbled. She glanced back at Todd; he lay quietly slumbering with his eyes closed. "Make sure you're not, or I'll be forced to leave him all alone to come and look for you," Wolf warned. Casey hurried off. She quickly went to a spot on the beach where there were large rocks close to shore and covered in seaweed. She grabbed large handfuls of the seaweed floating in the water, and took it to shore. Shaking it out onto the sand, she was able to collect shrimp and small crabs, bashing them senseless with a rock as well as the small fish she found hiding in the mass. It didn't take her long to collect more peanuts and fruits, staying ever wary of dangers. In no time, she returned to their camp and soon had food cooking. After Casey boiled water, then let it cool, she added the expressed juice from a garlic plant she had discovered. Once mixed, she undid the wrapping from Todd's thigh and bathed his wound. "What are you doing?" Todd asked. "The garlic should help as an antiseptic," she told him. She was very pleased she had found some. "Who taught you?" Todd asked, skeptical. "No one did. I spent a great deal of my life aboard planes, terrified of a crash. I read a few survival books; some were 144
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incredibly intuitive. It was the most wonderful reading, and a real comfort during turbulence," Casey confided. "Can we eat now?" Todd asked. "Yes, honey, we can eat now," she said, and squeezed his shoulder. After Casey had Todd fed and tucked in for the night, she settled near him, holding his hand, encouraging him to sleep. She smoothed back the hair from his face. She whispered sweet, encouraging kind words to him and smiled as he began to close his eyes. Casey understood his reluctance to sleep at night. The last time he had awoken he had been injured by the snake. It would take a great deal of time for the fear to lessen. She realized she was feeling her own anxiety as the sun set and darkness moved in around them. Wolf dropped himself with a thump onto the ground; his hair was still glistening from washing at the falls. He had draped his wet shirt over one of the large logs he'd dragged near the fire. With his shirt off and half of his jeans now missing, he looked even more formidable. Casey was wary of him, watching him with misgiving. He had been snapping and snarling all evening. Everything she or Todd did seem to anger him. She was concerned as Wolf grew more irritated by the moment. She had waited on Todd when she returned, again assuming all responsibility for him, yet Wolf seemed to become increasingly annoyed. He was watching her from across the fire. Casey returned the look apprehensively. "Come here," Wolf demanded. 145
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"But Todd needs me," she stammered, anxious at Wolf's angry dark look. "You don't mind if my fiancee spends some time with me now, do you, Todd?" Wolf snarled. His fierce gaze settled on Todd, who had opened his eyes at the altercation. Sensing a new and greater danger, Todd muttered negatively and rolled over, snatching his hand from Casey. Wolf reached over and roughly pulled her to him. He kissed at her mouth brutally, until her whimpers of pain penetrated his mind, though to her credit she did not struggle; she just pushed softly at his chest. Cupping her head, he gentled his kiss until she lay submissively in his arms. When both were panting, he released her. Casey rubbed the back of her hand over her swollen mouth while watching Wolf with wary surprise. She was shaking. "What did I do?" she whispered up at him, filled with confusion and mounting unease. "Nothing," Wolf snapped. "In fact, you've done nothing for me all damn day." "But Todd is injured. I'll take care of him. He won't be a burden, Wolf, I promise you won't have to do anything for him," Casey replied, still baffled. "Todd, Todd, Todd! All damn day it's been nothing but Todd. What about me?" Casey's eyes widened in shocked surprise as understanding dawned. "You're jealous!" "I am not jealous!" Wolf howled, enraged. "You are supposed to be my fiancee!" 146
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"All right, Wolf, calm down. I am your fiancee," Casey said, her eyes flashing over to Todd with concern. "I'm sorry, Wolf, please don't be angry, I just didn't want you to feel burdened." Casey rubbed at one of his arms, trying to help him recover his temper. His fists were balled at his sides and she remained wary, yet resigned as she eased herself into his lap and pressed her cheek gently against his chest. Her hands lifted to rub on his tense shoulders, working the knots around his neck and back as well. "Please, Wolf," she pleaded to him. When he looked down at her she pulled on the back of his head, encouraging a kiss. "Wolf, please." This time when Wolf kissed her he was patient. His lips were soft and his breath warm upon her face. His thumb lifted to slide down her cheek. His arms wrapped around her possessively, though not painfully, clutching her body to mold with his own. His warm breath glided down her throat and, relieved, Casey heard him sigh. His hands, no longer balled, worked at the knots on her shoulders. "Wolf?" "Yes," he replied, now calm. He rested his forehead against hers. "Thank you for saving my life." "Not all my words are lies, Casey." Casey studied him. She allowed him to settle her back and remained soft and accepting as he pulled her close and roamed his hands over her body. He seemed content to just touch her. Relieved he was not going to harm Todd, realizing where his anger originated from, Casey curled against him 147
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willingly. The fear of the snake made her grateful he was close. Perhaps his promise about keeping her safe was, in fact, true. Only time would tell. [Back to Table of Contents]
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Chapter Eleven **** Casey awoke slowly, still gripped in Wolf's powerful embrace. Her face was pressed to his unclad, warm, hard as rock chest. His arms held her possessively; his one hand clutched her behind snugly to him. Casey could feel his hardness nestled against her. She tried to move from beneath him, but only succeeded in rolling to her side. While she tried to coax his hand from her behind, he stirred, pulling her close, mumbling her name. "Wolf, please let me check on Todd," she begged. Wolf awoke in a sleepy haze of delicious warmth, enjoying the feel of her softness pressed so enticingly to his body. He lowered his head into Casey's hair, smelling her sweet scent. His lips tickled at her earlobes. He fondled her body, his hands sliding under her shirt, feeling her heat against the inside of his arm. Casey did not resist when Wolf tucked her beneath himself once more and kissed her lips, her eyes, her cheek; his soft, wet tongue darted out to trail a path under her chin to the hollow of her neck. Her heart fluttered and she resisted the feelings he was still able to stir. His heated kisses moved their way back up her cheek. His whispered breath paused at her ear. She tried to shut out the soothing words he caressed into her ear. He allowed more of his weight to lower onto her 149
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prone, helpless form. She could feel his eager arousal now pressed against her fully while his body rubbed against her. "I want you," Wolf whispered. Feeling a moment's panic, Casey looked over at Todd and, seeing he was trying to keep himself occupied, his eyes shifting to everything but them, she smiled. "Good morning, Todd," Casey said loudly, and shoving against Wolf as if embarrassed, she scooted out from beneath him. "Damn!" Wolf said with a frustrated groan. The hand that had been stroking Casey's silky skin fisted and smashed into the sand. "How are you feeling, Todd?" Casey asked. She inspected his wound. "Still sore," he replied. Casey saw Wolf glaring at him; he was definitely very angry with him. Todd shuddered, and Casey shifted to move until she blocked Wolf from Todd's view, knowing Todd must have felt an urge to start crawling. Casey felt his forehead and was relieved he was not feverish. She smiled at him. "Are you hungry, honey?" "I am," Wolf grouched, but from the look in his eyes Casey could tell it wasn't food he hungered for. "I'll go find something," Casey said. She rose and scurried away, wanting to retreat from Wolf's anger. Wolf looked furiously at Todd. Todd looked back as though he would have liked to scoot under the nearest rock. "You could always follow her. Ever done it on the beach?" Todd asked sheepishly. 150
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"If I follow her she will complain I have left you alone and unprotected." "She is a very caring young woman. You are a lucky man," Todd said. "Not lucky enough," Wolf grumbled. Grudgingly, he admitted Todd was right. Casey had fussed with genuine concern and compassion over Todd, jumping to do his bidding like a slave, to the point where Wolf had wished it had been himself who had gotten bitten, though the thought surprised him. He remembered Casey's shocked astonishment when she had declared Wolf was jealous. Wolf crossed his arms over his chest. He was not jealous. That wasn't possible. How could he be jealous? He was certain his anger was due to the fact he wasn't getting her attention. He was used to receiving all of her undivided attention until Todd came along. He liked Casey. He respected her, admired her tenacity. Her only failing was she was so darned inquisitive. She was incredibly beautiful and definitely caused an arousal in him. He was wishing he hadn't hurt her, yet justified himself that it was for her and Todd's own good. He couldn't have people knowing his profession. "Look, if it makes you feel better, I can tell she only has eyes for you," Todd said, interrupting Wolf's thoughts. "How can you tell?" Wolf asked, sulky to the point of being petulant. Todd squirmed a bit. "Look, buddy, you've got to admit you're a bit rough with her at times. But she calmed you down right quick last night," Todd said, and chuckled. 151
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"Maybe she likes it a bit rough," Wolf said suggestively. "My Jackie would run, terrified of a guy like you," Todd said, his own annoyance now rising; he narrowed his eyes upon the large, arrogant, pompous man. "And I think you're wrong. Casey looks fearful of you at times. You could try being a bit gentler. You had no business marking her arm the way you did, or tossing her to the ground." "Maybe you should just worry about your own woman," Wolf snarled, narrowing his own eyes. He liked not the fact Todd was right, and it touched a nerve. "Well, there's the thing. We could be stuck here for a long time," Todd said in a challenging way. "I don't think I like the idea of being stuck on an island without ever experiencing intimacy again. Perhaps Casey might like someone a bit easier once in awhile, especially when you get so damned physical." "You dirty bastard," Wolf howled, enraged at the implication. He jumped to his feet, prepared to do battle. She was his! Wolf didn't share what was his. Casey belonged to him! Two things occurred to Wolf simultaneously. The first being if he injured Todd further, Casey would again be fussing over the man, taking even more attention from himself. The second, more horrifying thought was that he was indeed jealous. Damn! How the hell did that happen! Wolf decided a bit of roughing up wouldn't kill Todd, although there was a thought. He advanced on the man menacingly, his hands balled, intent on teaching him to keep 152
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his eyes off Casey. Todd raised his hands to defend himself, most certainly realizing there was no escape, but trying to ease backwards regardless. "Wolf!" Casey screamed, barreling into the clearing. Her face was red, her breath came in gasps. "I haven't touched him," Wolf declared...yet, he mentally added. Casey raced to Wolf and grabbed at his shirt. She had sped from the beach. "Hurry, Wolf, come. There's a boat, Wolf, a boat, and it's close. Oh, Wolf, hurry," Casey cried out desperately. Wolf was running with a torch they kept handy, his feet flying across the terrain. Casey could not keep pace, though she put up a valiant effort. Their signal fire was blazing in no time while Casey jumped up and down on the beach, screaming and waving frantically. A loud horn could be heard in the distance coming from the boat. "They see us," Casey cried happily. She was so happy she threw herself into his arms. Wolf gripped her tightly up off her feet and swung her around. He then kissed her. To his surprise, she kissed him back eagerly and he noted Todd was not even around. Though it wasn't long before her eyes clouded and she disengaged herself from him. "I will still pretend for these people. You won't hurt them, will you?" she asked. "I won't hurt them. I won't hurt you either," Wolf said. "I don't know where to hide, Wolf. What will I do?" 153
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Wolf knew she meant from the others who would come. "I know a place." "Is it safe?" "It's safe, I can leave you with a friend of mine while I speak to David." "Don't hurt him. He is suffering so badly inside," Casey begged. "He wanted you dead," Wolf reminded her. "But I don't want him dead." Todd came stumbling through the foliage at that moment. "Oh, thank God," he muttered. Casey went to him and supported him, pulling his arm around her shoulder. She assisted him to a large piece of driftwood, where she settled him. "See, you'll be fine now, Todd," Casey told him and rubbed at his back. "I don't believe it!" Todd exclaimed. "What is it?" Casey asked. There were people now approaching them. One of them was a woman, who was smiling as she hurried closer. Her relief radiated from the beaming look she cast. "How are you supposed to take care of me while you're on an island with a beautiful woman?" the dark-haired woman said. Todd rose and she launched herself into his arms, clinging tightly. "Jackie!" Todd exclaimed, cuddling her closer. Casey sat sipping on her second glass of white wine after finishing a wonderful meal. The large yacht was beautiful. The hired help fussed over the three of them. When Casey had 154
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boarded, she had been escorted to a lovely room below deck, and Jackie had encouraged her to wash and pick out some clean clothing. Jackie was taller and better described as voluptuous, yet Casey found something appropriate. It felt so good to get out of her soiled, torn clothing. A doctor aboard had gone over her bruises and sores critically after first examining Todd's thigh. She had sat quietly while the doctor had put two stitches in her toe after cleansing it thoroughly. He then wrapped it well and suggested she would need a tetanus shot just to be safe. "That's a nasty mark," the doctor declared while assessing Wolf's forehead. "I got hit with a coconut." "You are a very lucky man. Some people have died from being struck by falling coconuts," he informed him. "You don't say," Wolf replied, and looked over at Casey, lifting an eyebrow. She felt her face heat up. "You must have a hard head," the doctor told him. Finishing his exam, the doctor settled back, reaching for his own wine. "You have no idea," Casey mumbled. "I still can't believe you found me," Todd said once more, amazed. "Jackie had the entire house in an uproar when she found out your boat had sunk," the doctor said, shaking his head. "I ended up sedating the poor thing. When she came to she was frantic and demanded we leave to find you immediately, and rallied the troops. You know how stubborn she can be." 155
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"Oh, Uncle Roger," Jackie replied, rolling her eyes. "I am not stubborn, just determined." "Well I, for one, am grateful you are determinedly stubborn. I missed you," Todd said, and he captured her to him and settled her onto his good leg. He smiled up at her, then cuddled her closer to himself. Casey noted the doctor taking all of this in. He seemed to be assessing Todd and his delighted, unrestrained, and decidedly truthful reaction critically. "It's good to have you back, Todd," Roger said finally. "I'm happy to be back," he replied. He turned, gazing into Jackie's face. "I thought about you so much, baby. I worried about you every day. I wanted to be with you but I am so happy you weren't stuck out there with us. It was so awful." "You must have been so scared," Jackie said, running her hands over his face. She turned to Casey. "Weren't you terrified when the snake struck? You must have been happy Todd was there to protect you." Casey chuckled and Wolf snorted. "Yes, Todd was definitely a comfort," Casey informed the woman. She hid another giggle while sipping more wine. "Well, I had best get you off to bed so you can rest," Jackie said, rising, assisting Todd to his feet. "Bed sounds great, but only if you will stay with me," Todd said. His eyes trailed up and down Jackie, already devouring her. "Oh, Todd," Jackie said, and giggling, she led him away.
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Roger sighed and shook his head as they left. "I can show you to a cabin if you would like to rest. We should make it to land in a couple of hours." "A real bed certainly sounds enticing," Wolf said, gazing at Casey. Casey shifted uncomfortably. She could see what Wolf was thinking. "But we haven't seen anyone else for weeks. It would be nice to just sit and chat and catch up on what's happening in the world," Casey said. "Are you saying you're tired of my company?" Wolf asked as his gaze intensified. "No, of course not, honey," Casey replied, quickly noting Roger's look was settled on their exchange. The man was watching shrewdly. Casey could tell he was wondering if she was just playing shy, or perhaps it was something else. She reached over quickly to hold Wolf's hand. He clasped it firmly and immediately pulled her into his lap. She rested her head against his shoulder and rubbed his back. "I would recommend you both get some sleep. You have suffered through a traumatic experience. I'm surprised I haven't needed to treat any of you for hysteria," the doctor said, sounding somewhat relieved. Their search had led them to other islands, where other survivors had not fared as well. Others had indeed been battling shock and hysteria. Thankfully, all they had found would live. Some survivors found by other searchers had not been as lucky. There were horrific stories circulating of some passengers being trapped below and unable to escape as the yacht had gone down. 157
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"I'm also grateful none of you are in shock," Roger said. At least not yet, Casey thought. Wolf stood up, carrying Casey with him. He held her easily for a moment, gazing into her eyes before sliding her to her feet down the length of his hard body. She looked up at him and offered a shaky smile for the doctor's benefit. Roger led them to a small but bright cabin and told them if they needed anything someone would be happy to get it for them. Once the door closed and Wolf locked it, Casey moved backwards, her hands splayed before her in self-defense. Wolf stalked after her, his wolfish grin lighting his smoldering dark eyes. Casey's heart began to pound within her breast. She was being hunted, and Wolf wanted to pounce and sink his teeth into his prey. [Back to Table of Contents]
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Chapter Twelve **** "Wolf," Casey said, her hands still splayed before her in a pleading gesture. Her wild eyes fixed on his. "You know I won't hurt you." Wolf's voice was low and thick with desire. His heated eyes trailed up and down her body with intense passion. He moved slowly towards her, his anticipation intensifying. He wanted to taste her. He wanted to devour her. He had waited long enough for her to be his once more. He would wait no longer. Casey cast a quick glance to her bruised arm. She lowered her head. Wolf was standing in front of her. Her retreat had been stopped short as she bumped into the bed behind her. She looked up into Wolf's eyes. She looked so confused. Wolf trailed a soft thumb over her cheek. "I needed to frighten you, Casey, to save Todd's life, or at least his emotional well-being, I swear I wouldn't have killed him, but I didn't want to have to threaten him to remain silent. I had already been angry at him for wanting you. I shouldn't have been so rough with you. I'm sorry, sweetheart. You have promised you will tell no one what I do and I believe you. I promise never to hurt you again. Believe me." He willed Casey to see his sincerity. She had to believe him. "You said you had a place I could go where I would be safe. Did you mean it?" "My friend's home." 159
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"Will your friend hurt me?" "No." "Does he do what you do?" "No." "How can you be certain he won't hand me over for money?" Casey asked. "He owes me a blood favor." "A blood favor?" "I once protected something of great value to him." "I'm not of great value to you," Casey said. "I promise no one will harm you. I will not allow it," Wolf declared. He pulled Casey into his arms, lifting her up off her feet; he lowered her to the bed. Wolf settled himself over her, keeping most of his weight from her. His mouth captured her lips in a wild dance. He hungered for her, wanting to devour her sweet tongue, yet still sensing her hesitation, his hands remained undemanding; he kept a tight rein on his ardor. They trailed lazily over her body, seeking a response, knowing if she remained adamant about refusing him he would cease. Casey lay motionless beneath him. She did not push him away, nor did she respond. "I swear on my life, Casey, I will never hurt you again," Wolf said. Distressed, he watched with dismay as a tear fell from the corner of her eye to land on the sheets. "I don't want to die," Casey whimpered up at him. "I want children of my own someday. Abby gave so much to me. She enriched my life in a way nothing ever has. I want a family again, I need a family again." 160
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"I won't let you die, Casey. Trust me," Wolf said, imploring her to believe him. Casey reached up to put her hands around his neck, accepting him. Wolf removed her clothing like expensive Christmas wrapping paper, discovering every inch of her again as though she were a fine present he had ached for. His hands shook from the tedious, leisurely discoveries. He had roamed her body in his dreams at night, able to solicit an eager response. Now, wide awake, he discovered how unsatisfying the dreams were compared with reality. He tasted her. He breathed in her scent. He marveled at her smooth softness against his large hands. Wolf tugged at his own clothing. He had borrowed a few things from Todd; the man was smaller and his pants were now uncomfortably tight against his hard arousal. Casey pulled on his arms, encouraging him to enter her, wanting to feel him close. She had missed him; she had missed his sweet words, his touch. His hard body felt protective as he slid over her, settling himself as though he belonged right where he was. Wolf needed no encouragement. He only stopped briefly, his eyes fixed onto hers as his hand trailed a dawdling path down her midriff, lower, lower until she could scarcely breathe. A large finger teased her outer, heated flesh to test her readiness. She arched up, touching him, wanting his entry, and she thrust against him. Wolf leaned in, found her earlobe, and emitted a sound that always made Casey smile, loving his playful side. 161
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"You purr so amazingly sexy for a wolf, Wolf," she said, feeling a delicious smile creep over her flushed face. Wolf settled himself over her, entering her slowly. She groaned as inch by mind-numbing inch he claimed her. Impatient, Casey writhed against him, wanting more, begging for him to fill her completely. Her legs rose high to wrap around his waist, trapping him to her. Her fingers burrowed in his hair, drawing his lips to hers in a passionate kiss. Their breath mixed, became one, until Casey felt in all certainty it was Wolf who breathed for them both. Her hips rose and fell with the waves that washed over her. She wanted more of him so desperately she moaned deep in the back of her throat. Wolf eagerly complied and thrust into her, moving harder and faster, gripping her to him. "Wolf!" Casey cried out. "I have you, sweetheart, I'm here," Wolf soothed as she thrashed beneath him. Her fingernails dug into his back until Wolf gripped her wrists high above her head with one hand, pinning her down. His other unlocked her legs from around him to grab a thigh, lifting her higher, seeking an even deeper entry. He stroked higher, harder as their flesh collided with a solid impact. She cried out beneath him, her breath coming in ragged gasps. Sweat ran down Wolf's face, dripping onto Casey's forehead, combining with her own. "Wolf," Casey once more cried out, shuddering beneath him. She stilled, exhausted, lying motionless except for the hard, powerful thrusting that invaded her senses. She moaned as Wolf continued to move vigorously within her, 162
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seeking his own release. His howl of victory roared as he claimed her as his own once more. Wolf collapsed on top of her; the two panted for air. Wolf rolled to his side, taking her firmly with him. His commanding arms wrapped around her securely, protectively. "Wolf?" "I'm here, sweetheart, I have you." "I'm so tired," Casey breathed out on an exhausted sigh. "Sleep, sweetheart. I will keep you safe." "Promise?" "Promise." "But, Wolf, I need to shop for more suitable clothing," Casey complained. Though serviceable, Jackie's clothes were still too large and felt awkward as they hung on her. Wolf's were not much better, as they appeared too tight and ill fitting. They would undeniably draw attention to themselves if they remained in them out in public. After docking and saying their goodbyes, Wolf whisked Casey away to a secluded, rented thatched hut on the island. So far, word of their rescue had yet to be released. Wolf had departed with Casey before the authorities could be notified. He needed time to get Casey to safety before David realized she was still alive. He did not want David thinking he had perished, forcing him to hire another to finish the job. That could prove to be messy. Wolf would be forced to stop the new assassin. Depending on who David hired, it might be a concern. 163
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Wolf cared nothing for thugs. He would dispatch one of them easily. But there were others like himself that killed on principal, not just money alone. They took care of the evil, not the innocent. David's story was convincing. Wolf liked not the idea of killing one of his own. Hopefully he could make whomever it was listen to reason. "If you access your bank account or try to have a credit card reissued, David will know you are alive and where to find you," Wolf said reasonably. "But I still need to board a plane and I have no identification," Casey said. "I'll get some for you," Wolf told her. "How?" Casey asked. Wolf gave her a calculating look. "Do you really want to know?" "Maybe not," she muttered. "You won't hurt anyone, will you?" "Relax, sweetheart, normally I only kill under contract," Wolf said with a slight smile. Casey shuddered. "Where are we heading?" "I can't tell you. The man I am sending you to wants to be completely out of the public eye. It's the only way he can keep him and his family safe. He will demand you swear you have never met them or know of their existence once this is over. Casey, he will know if you ever lie to him," Wolf said as if in warning. "I wouldn't want them hurt for helping me," Casey said.
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"No one is going to get hurt," Wolf told her and he pulled her to himself. "Everything will be fine. I will make it clear to David he is to leave you alone. I can be very persuasive." "I'm aware of just how persuasive you can be. It's never wise to anger a wolf, especially when his temper could turn rabid!" Wolf smirked at her. "I need to go and make arrangements. I will get you something else to wear. You will be fine here by yourself for awhile. Just stay inside and don't let anyone in," Wolf warned sternly. "I won't," Casey promised. He gave a fast kiss to her forehead, turned and left, making certain the door was secured behind him. Once Wolf left, Casey paced the small hut. She ventured a quick look out a window every time she passed it until darkness settled and she could no longer see beyond the beach in front of them. Her thoughts had bombarded her. She came to the conclusion if Wolf's friend was in hiding, he may not be in the same profession as Wolf, but he most likely had been. She knew Wolf would keep his word and keep her safe. Nevertheless, the thought of staying with another assassin, even if retired, was terrifying. And what of after, what would happen when it was all over? If Wolf could convince David to leave her alone, what was she to do? Casey wondered if the feelings Wolf stirred in her were because he was the only one who could keep her safe. They had been trapped alone, after all. They had needed one another to survive. She still needed him. When she no longer was in danger would she just sigh with relief and want to be 165
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as far away from him as possible? Concerned, Casey could not help a nagging feeling she was feeling something else for him. Casey slumped onto the bed. Whether or not she had feelings for Wolf it would not matter, she realized. Once he considered her safe he would vanish. Casey wondered why he had promised to help her. He could just walk away. That thought caused her great distress. She wondered with concern if that was what he was doing now. She was not in any danger. At least not until David found out she was still alive. Casey's head dropped. He had said to trust him. She had no choice. She could leave, yes, but she could not return home. She could just imagine the look on David's face if she were to stroll in, sit him down, and tell him she'd had the most amazing time! She could even find him a souvenir; she'd stick it up his... Her fantastic thoughts ceased. She would never go near David again, for any reason. She had nowhere to go, no one to go to. She could not seek the aid of the authorities, fearing Wolf's wrath. She knew in her heart she would never tell of what had transpired between them regardless, but she would be unable to stop David on her own. Once again she realized, though no longer trapped on a deserted island, all she had was Wolf. She yawned; her thoughts and emotions had worn her out. The bed felt inviting as she cuddled into soft, sweet smelling, ocean fresh, white sheets. She pulled a pillow under her head and pulled another to her chest. Her body and mind were 166
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weary. Her toe throbbed and her head pounded to the beat of the waves on the shore. She took two of the pills Roger had given her while on board the yacht for pain. Her body settled back. She calmed her breathing that had increased at her deliberations. Perhaps Wolf's friend would not be as intimidating as Wolf. She could not imagine anyone being as authoritative, dominant, or unnerving as Wolf. As the pills began to work, Casey's eyes drooped. Wolf will come back, her mind soothed. He would never abandon her. He had promised. Wolf kept his promises. Casey slept. It was dark when Wolf returned to the small hut. He stood gazing down into Casey's serene expression as she slept. He had found the small bottle of pills she had left out, remembering Roger had given her a few to hold her over until she could find a pharmacy. It was with relief Wolf noted she had only taken two. For a moment he had been concerned she might try to overdose, to escape from her fear and reality. He shook his head; she was too strong spirited to end her own life. Wolf sat on the bed beside her, gently stroking her forehead. He had gotten lucky and his mission had proved fruitful. A plane was standing by to take them where he needed to be. A favor from a friend he had called upon, who had been in the vicinity on his own mission. Thankfully, credit cards did not disintegrate in the ocean and Wolf was relieved he still carried his wallet. He had been able to acquire the necessary documents for travel in case he needed them. His friend assured him enough of his kind were 167
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available to aid in his venture. It might take a little while, but he would be on home turf before long. "Casey?" Wolf whispered. He nuzzled her neck, hoping to elicit a response. She whimpered fitfully in her sleep, but did not rouse. Wolf redressed her in the clothing he had acquired; they were more suited to her small frame. He also sported the clothing he favored. He tied the last bow onto her tiny white running shoe and then lifted her into his arms. In her drugged state, she had been completely unresponsive. It was just as well, he surmised. They needed to be away immediately. He had no time for small talk, and Casey could chatter endlessly, while bombarding him with her relentless questions. He cuddled her and then, moving swiftly, he left the hut and headed for the car he had rented under an assumed name. He tucked Casey into the passenger side, resting her head onto his lap once he was seated. Starting the car, Wolf drove away into the darkness. Everything was in position, his contacts were secured, and they would encounter no problems. He rubbed at Casey's shoulders while she slept. His fingertips lingered over her sweet, warm, soft cheek. Once this was finished, he would miss her. She was the only woman he had allowed to get this close to him. He had been surprised at how fast she gotten to him. He had thought his emotions had been completely shut down. Perhaps it was best he was separating himself from her. He was positive Lando would keep her safe. Once he deterred 168
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David from seeking her demise, she would be free to go anywhere. Casey wouldn't need Wolf or his protection anymore. Sighing, Wolf liked not the fact that thought made him feel bad. He had known this one had commitment written all over her. Damn! [Back to Table of Contents]
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Chapter Thirteen **** Casey's body jumped spasmodically; she woke as Wolf settled her into the single engine plane. The warm, humid night was dark except for the brilliant light of the full moon, and eerily silent. The small white plane sat on a lone empty field, devoid of any trees or foliage. Strangely enough, Casey thought she heard a cow low in the distance. She was disoriented and felt immensely relieved when Wolf captured her to his upper body and soothed her fears upon her whimpered plea. She had been right. Wolf had not abandoned her. "Wolf," Casey whispered, her voiced muffled as she pressed against his chest. "You'll be fine Casey, I'm here. We will be headed to my friends in no time." Casey cuddled up to him, holding him close. She wished he could make love to her. She wanted to feel him, his strength. She wanted to hide beneath his powerful body. She wanted to listen to the endearing words he spoke while gripped in passion. Her mind seemed in turmoil. Her thoughts were foggy and unfocused. There was a terrible feeling of desperate anxiousness within her chest that she did not understand and could not control. Casey decided she would not take any more of the pain pills Roger had given her. She liked not this feeling of 170
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complete helplessness over her own body. She trembled, feeling hot and cold at the same time. She felt a moment's panic as her eyes blurred. She whimpered. "Casey, you're fine, I'm here," Wolf soothed again. "The pills, Wolf, I feel so helpless and afraid. Something is wrong with me. Please help me," she whispered up at him, frightened. Her mind succumbed to an eerie fog, which dragged her into a sea of desolate despair; the world began spinning until it no longer existed, until Wolf no longer existed. Wolf noted with concern Casey's face was flushed. When he placed a cool hand to her forehead she felt hot. When her hands grasped at him they appeared unsteady and weak; they fluttered about like a drunken butterfly. She was not in control of her movements and sudden jerks. "Casey, have you ever taken anything like that before?" he asked, grasping hold of her hands, stilling them. When Casey's eyes drooped, he grabbed her chin firmly and shook her face. "Wolf?" She sobbed once aloud, fearfully. Her head rolled back. "Think, Casey, do you have any allergies?" Wolf said urgently, giving her a shake. Instead of eliciting a response, she went limp in his arms. "What's wrong?" A man appeared suddenly before them, and after tensing, Wolf relaxed, recognizing him. "Damn you, Roll! You should know better than to sneak up on me," Wolf snapped. He had almost lunged for him. The 171
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man was lucky the new large, black, deadly sidearm he had acquired remained in its holster strapped to his side. "Well hell, Wolf, normally no one sneaks up on you. You must really be off your game today," the man replied, surprised. Wolf indeed felt off. Casey was lying completely motionless in his arms and his worry was consuming him. Her head lolled to the side to rest against his chest when he removed his hand from her chin. "I think she's having an allergic reaction to some medicine she was given." The man moved closer and felt Casey's warm forehead. Her cheeks felt clammy. Gently, he lifted her eyelids to gaze into her eyes, noting her enlarged pupils. He felt her pulse. He then placed his large hand over her chest, concentrating on how hard her heartbeat pounded. He noted she occasionally jerked. Her breathing was irregular and shallow. "Yeah, no doubt she's having a reaction. Don't panic, she won't die from it. It ain't nearly as bad as some I've seen. If it was gonna kill her it would have already. It's happened to me once or twice when my mark was supposed to be kept alive until drop off. It happens when you're unsure of the dosage, because you don't always have a chance to determine the weight beforehand. "Sometimes you gotta act fast. You always gotta be certain to give them enough. But you also gotta remember if your syringe is ready for a two hundred pound man. You can't shoot the entire thing into a tiny little one hundred and ten pound woman," the man mentioned, though he knew this was really not Wolf's expertise. 172
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"She's not my mark," Wolf snarled up at him. "All right, all right," the man said, backing up, arms splayed in supplication. "It ain't your fault, is all I'm saying." "You're certain she will be fine?" Wolf demanded. "Yeah, sure, I know my business. She's gonna be even more scared though, thinking she'll die, harder to control. She'll most likely be sick when she wakes up and I don't want her upchucking on my plane so we best get out of here," he replied. Roll moved off and had the small plane airborne soon enough. Wolf continued to hold Casey closer with dismay. He didn't want her to die; he hoped Roll was right. Knowing Roll and his particular line of work, he assumed him to be correct. Roll preferred not to kill. He was contracted to bring in people when information was sought. That he did not like to kill or cause undo harm was a reason he excelled. He took precautions to make certain he was successful. Most knew their intended victim would arrive to them unharmed, yet completely incapacitated. The man definitely did know his business. "So, who's she going to?" Roll asked curiously. "Just fly the damn plane," Wolf demanded. "Yeah, okay, I know how to take a hint. But you know me. Nobody's more closed-mouthed than me. She's a damn cute little thing. I wish they had asked me to grab her. Some are more fun than others. I had this one guy last week who weighed a ton. Big fat guy who had pissed off someone bad, someone he should have known better than to screw with. He 173
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won't be pissing anyone off again, I imagine," Roll said, and chuckled. At a small sound from Casey, Wolf looked down, and to his dismay noted she had awakened and was looking up at him, terrified. She clutched at his shirt and did indeed look as though she may vomit. "Please," she whimpered. "Easy, sweetheart, don't be afraid, no one's going to hurt you," Wolf soothed. "Yeah, that's good. Why don't you try stroking her forehead? Sometimes it works on a few. I'm not so mean. If I can give them a bit of comfort in their last hours, who's to say anything, right?" Roll said. "Shut up, damn you, you're scaring her," Wolf snapped. Casey's eyes had widened in terror. "Yeah, sure. It's a damn shame, though. I know I'd be tempted to keep that one and tell them I overdosed her by accident. She could bring in some serious money on the right market. Damn risky though, to piss off the big boys," Roll muttered. If Roll hadn't been flying the plane Wolf would have considered killing him at the amount of distress he was causing Casey. He could see her terrified eyes begging him not to harm her. She must be wondering if this is what he had planned all along now that she was completely helpless. Her whimpered pleas were causing Wolf an even greater distress. "Please, sweetheart, calm down. No one will hurt you, baby, I swear. I will keep you safe. Haven't I already? You 174
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can depend on me. Don't cry, honey, please don't cry," Wolf soothed. He gently stroked the hair from her face and smoothed away the tears that fell from her eyes. He kissed her hands, holding one up to his cheek, pressing it firmly against himself. "Trust me." Casey calmed. Her breathing evened as Wolf's soothing voice penetrated her mind. "Please don't let go. Don't leave me," she whimpered. She pulled him closer, wanting his arms wrapped around her. His hand smoothed the hair from her eyes. She once more settled and slept as he held her. "Well, damn. I'm gonna have to try that on the next little honey I get," Roll exclaimed. "I sure wouldn't mind a woman wanting to pull me close when she's scared." "Just fly the damn plane," Wolf repeated dangerously. The car bumped and jostled over the rugged gravel road. Once again Casey sat, hanging onto a car door, her face still pale. When she had awakened from her trip with Roll, she had been violently ill. Wolf had held her hair from her face, soothing her and rubbing her back. Thankfully the plane had landed and she was able to find a small but dirty restroom. She shuddered again as she remembered Roll's eyes drinking in her form. He had casually mentioned to Wolf something about a good paying buyer that might be interested, which made her skin crawl. Wolf had thrown the man against the plane so violently Casey had screamed and cowered back. After glaring at the surprised man for a moment, Wolf had released him. He had snarled at the man about those poor, 175
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pitiful women in their degrading situation needing to stay completely submissive or risk death, and he knew the price Casey would bring so he could just shut his damn mouth. She had shuddered, knowing she wouldn't last long in a situation like the one he was describing. Wolf had then lifted her into his arms and strode off, voicing vile obscenities. He snapped he could kill Roll for his callous comments. She had almost been too frightened to tell him she was going to be sick. She highly doubted vomiting on him would ease his mood. They had been on the move for two days steady now. Wolf kept glancing at her with concern. She had refused to eat, claiming her tummy was still too unsettled. Roll and a few of the others she had encountered had frightened her. Casey had tried to remain strong. She knew Wolf valued her inner strength, but she drew the line at repeated assaults to her emotional well-being. Their constant need to remain mobile and alert was taking its toll. "Wolf, I'm tired," Casey complained. "There's a place up here we can stop at for the night until the plane leaves in the morning," Wolf told her. "No more planes, please," she whined. Wolf had dragged her on so many small engine planes in the last two days she was airsick. "I'm sorry, but I swear this will be the last one." "Another friend?" she inquired, annoyed. Some of the people he associated with were repulsive. Some never said one thing. Others had vile or frightening comments. Casey felt certain she was headed for a nervous breakdown. To 176
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Wolf's credit, he was quick to ease her fears and cuddle her gently when he sensed her distress mounting, which it had often enough. "An acquaintance," Wolf replied. "Fantastic," Casey muttered sarcastically. She was remembering his 'acquaintance' with the jagged scar down his face, who had said not one word to them. The man had been huge and fearsome. His dark gaze had settled onto Casey, his eyes drinking her in, lingering over her lewdly, and Roll's words resounded in her ears. She had wondered if this man knew her market value as well. The thought was beyond disgusting and disturbing. Wolf had to lift her onto the plane, lest she run in terror. The experience had been mystifying as well, though the man had not said one word. He and Wolf had conversed with occasional hand signals. Cassie knew sign language, but this was like nothing she had ever experienced. It seemed to be a cross between some type of strange army intelligence motioning, a combative practice, and some obvious banter. Whatever it was, they were both quite fluent and the man had them to their destination without incident or a single uttered word. Wolf reached out a gentle hand to stroke her cheek, smiling at her. "I'll protect you." "I know you will," Casey voiced almost inaudibly. He had been protecting her. He had been watching over her like a protective...wolf. Each time Wolf howled a reply at some disgusting remark aimed at her, the men quieted instantly. They feared his wrath. 177
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Wolf was definitely a man to be reckoned with. Casey's admiration for him grew, as well as the nagging feeling in her belly she was more than just fond of him. She did not want for him to just disappear after she was safe. She wanted to explore her feelings for him, although she knew she was being delusional. Once Wolf accomplished his mission, she was certain he would be gone from her life forever. "Wolf?" Casey asked hesitantly. "When all of this is over will I ever see you again?" "I don't know. I will keep my eyes and ears open to make sure David keeps his word once given. My reputation is fierce. Not many would anger me willingly," Wolf said. "I know you want to start a new life with children one day. I don't want you concerned I'll stick around to invade your privacy. Still, I want you to know I'll keep you as safe as I can." "I wouldn't mind seeing you from time to time," Casey said. Wolf offered her lavish smirk. "Every third Tuesday of the month we could meet and get reacquainted," he said suggestively. Casey groaned. "Wolf," she said, exasperated. "Over pizza," he joked. "You would rather it be over me," she retorted. "Now there's a fine idea," Wolf replied, his eyes trailing up and down her body. Casey sighed. She wished he would be serious. She would like to tell him how she was feeling but felt he would just laugh her off. Perhaps it was just his way of remaining aloof. 178
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When the small bed and breakfast by the tiny airport came into view Casey looked upon it, relieved. She followed Wolf in and stood by as he signed them in under an assumed name, paying cash. She allowed him to usher her upstairs, and when he propelled her into the tub, claiming he would find her food, she did not hesitate. The water was gloriously warm and, feeling refreshed though tired, Casey emerged from the bath to find Wolf had set out clean new clothes for her by the bed. She walked into the large room draped only in a small towel, watching as Wolf lit two candles at the small table in their room. An array of food was upon the table. "Wolf, this is wonderful," she exclaimed. She sat and helped herself to a slice of Swiss cheese. "Are you feeling hungry now?" Wolf asked. She had hardly eaten anything for the last few days and she could see his concern. "Famished," she replied, and drank down half a glass of white wine. Wolf poured more into the glass, topping it up. "Are you trying to get me drunk?" "Do I need to?" Wolf asked. "No. You just need to kiss me," Casey said. He did. Wolf trailed his lips down Casey's throat. She sighed, knowing his love-making would be leisurely. She accepted the strawberry he guided into her mouth. She chewed, savoring the sweet taste. When she finished, Wolf encouraged a piece of succulent steak past her lips. When she had again dutifully 179
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swallowed, Wolf offered her a mouthful of vegetables, swimming in a sea of savory white wine sauce. "Wolf, I want you," Casey said throatily. "I want you...to eat," Wolf said seriously. Casey sighed as Wolf rose from the floor before her to again perch on his chair, watching her intently. Casey lifted more cheese into her mouth, knowing the look he wore was his protective, concerned look. Casey felt it was perhaps her turn to try her hand at seducing. She ate slowly, leisurely licking the butter from a baby carrot, her tongue flicking out and capturing some as it spilled to slip down the side of her wrist. She trailed her finger around the rim of her wine glass, dipping in a fingertip, then lifting her moist finger to her lips. The entire time her tiny towel slipped lower and lower until the peaks of her nipples were just barely visible. She watched as his protective look turned into smoldering desire. She cast him suggestive glances and sucked the end of a strawberry. The food was nice, but she knew Wolf would taste better. Her coy, heated looks were eventually too much for Wolf, and he took her into his arms. "You're still going to eat," he said gruffly. "Once my hunger is satisfied." "Oh, you'll be satisfied all right," Wolf said. "Promise?" "Promise." Casey sighed as Wolf carried her to the bed. He always kept his promises. He laid her back onto the fluffy pillows. She watched as her towel hit the floor, followed closely by his 180
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own clothes. His smoldering eyes never strayed from hers. His broad chest heaved with his quick breath. She smiled when his arousal sprang free, already hard and ready. Casey sat up. Her nipples were taut, her breasts felt full with desire. The bed dipped as he knelt before her, taking her into his powerful arms, which wrapped their protectiveness around her. She bowed her head to his chest, pressing her forehead against him as he cupped his hands under her bottom, lifting her. She lowered her hand to grip him, curling her fingers around his incredibly long, hard length, guiding him into her. She moaned as he pulled her up in his embrace to settle her onto his erection. He slipped inside with a gentle thrust, easing her down, wrapping his arms around her from behind, his hands firmly planted on her shoulders. She was eager and slick. She was more than ready. Her lips curled with satisfaction; she felt she could purr, and she wondered who was seducing whom. He stroked into her, giving the gift of a talented lover. She clung to him, burying her face in his neck, her hands weaving through his hair. "Wolf, I want more of you." She found herself on her back with the lightning speed of a panther bringing down its prey. He fastened his mouth onto her own, drinking from her tongue. He lowered his large hand to pull her knee higher until it reached her shoulder. He pumped into her, moving as gracefully as the ocean liner had through water. Casey closed her eyes and lay there, just feeling. He was muscle and stealth, the most magnetic male 181
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she had ever been with. His body felt like a shield of awesome steel, and still so hot she burned for him. He removed himself to trail hungry, wet kisses down her neck, her breasts, her belly, only stopping when he reached the insides of her thighs. "Oh!" she cried out when his lips touched her, parting her folds with his tongue. She was glad she was lying down; her knees were jelly as he moved deeper. Before long she reached to clutch his hair, pulling, wanting him to fill her again. He moved back up her body and she almost came undone as he whispered her name. She loved hearing her name on his breath. His body pinned her. Once more he thrust, fitting perfectly within her like they were made for each other. She gasped from his full penetration, while he pushed up, up. His arm locked around her shoulders, keeping her firmly in place underneath him. Again she cried out his name as she felt a warm wetness flow through her. Wolf was calling to her from beyond, a lover's call, a secret between two people which could only be answered by their mate. Wolf rolled over, taking her with him. Casey calmed her breathing; she clung to him with tears in her eyes. "I love you, Wolf," Casey whispered. Wolf was asleep. [Back to Table of Contents]
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Chapter Fourteen **** "Casey, this is Lando." Casey looked up at the man Wolf introduced her to, way up, eyes round as saucers. He was huge. His black t-shirt strained against hard, heavy muscles. His arms bulged like tanks and he wasn't even flexing. He wore black jeans and big, heavy black boots that added to a somewhat sinister appearance. He was even bigger than Wolf. That alone made her eyes widen further still. She retreated behind Wolf and peeked at Lando from around him. He was powerfully built and extremely well muscled, everywhere. He had shoulder length, black as night hair. His eyes were a deep, dark chocolate brown and were at that minute staring intently at her. Casey had thought Wolf's impassive look was unnerving; this man could clear a room of hardened criminals with a single glance. Casey felt very lucky David had sent Wolf after her instead of this man. Confronting him alone would have given her a heart attack, she was certain. If he had approached her that dark night at the railing on the ship, she would have jumped overboard herself, unassisted, needing no encouragement. Flown like the seagull! Her face buried into Wolf's side, half hidden behind him. Casey looked up at Wolf and noted with concerned interest he was now watching Lando with his unsettling expression, 183
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his eyes seeming to offer up a challenge. The powerful man returned the look evenly. Casey wasn't certain, but she thought she detected something occurring between the two titans. She felt goose bumps rise. She resisted the urge to beg him to take her with him. She knew he wouldn't and she would only be embarrassing herself. She ventured a sad glance up at him and could see Wolf knew what she was thinking. She realized her suspicions were confirmed. Lando had at one time been in the same profession as Wolf. Casey shuddered, wondering if Lando had killed innocents. The way Wolf described Christy to her, Lando would have been aware the moment they met Christy was harmless. Calculating from his insinuations, poor Christy must have felt as terrified as she had. She felt she had a kindred spirit and was looking forward to meeting a woman who had the nerve and audacity to face a man such as the one before her. Wolf was also watching Casey, remembering how terrified Christy, Lando's petite wife, had been of himself when the roles were reversed and he was hired to guard her. He remembered her also cowering in fear, seeking Lando's protection from behind him. Wolf felt a moment's satisfaction that Casey trusted him enough to protect her from such a bear of a man. "I see you haven't shrunk any since the last time we met," Wolf said in a teasing fashion, trying to lighten the mood. He knew Lando would be critical of Casey, even more than Wolf had been of Christy. Lando had a family to protect. If he thought he sensed any malice or deception in Casey, Wolf 184
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was uncertain what the outcome would be, but it was sure to be disastrous. Although Wolf had never once heard of any incident where Lando had ever physically harmed a woman, he would be even more unpredictable now that he was protecting his own wife and child. Wolf would protect Casey, and although Lando would be a formidable opponent, they were well matched. Apparently satisfied, Lando gazed back down at Casey and offered her a slight grin. She peeked back up at him, and the huge man relaxed noticeably. "So you've captured yourself a Wolf. Christy will be intrigued," Lando said. Both men shook hands. Immediately the tension between the two dissipated. Wolf turned her in his arms and cuddled her to his chest, seeking to reassure her. "It's fine, Casey, Lando won't hurt you, I promise," he soothed. "You will be safe with him." Wolf trailed his thumb down her worried face. Casey looked over to Lando, who was watching them with open amazement. Wolf understood his surprise. This was the first woman Lando had ever known of that Wolf called by her first name. It had surprised Wolf how quickly he had gotten used to calling Casey by her given name; to him it was more powerful or meaningful than any endearment. "Wolf is right, sweetheart, I won't hurt you. I'm harmless," Lando said, smiling down at her, his large powerful arms wide in supplication. Harmless! It was the very last word in the English language anyone would use to describe the way he looked. Right up there alongside the word tiny! But when he smiled, 185
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his rough features gentled and Casey ventured from behind Wolf with his encouragement, to shake Lando's large hand. Though his grip was firm it was non-threatening and, to Lando's surprise, her own grip seemed confident. Speculating, Lando reassessed the woman before him and could see courage trying to battle to defeat the fear. This one was a fighter. "Come on, Christy is dying to hug you, Wolf, and you won't believe how big Logan has gotten," Lando said with enthusiasm. He ushered the two into his large black truck and they were soon bumping over a small gravel road, surrounded in the beauty of the wilderness foliage during late summer. "How is Kitten?" Wolf asked. He ran a hand over the arm that had been shot in his efforts to save the girl from the ruthless Mafia leader Lando had hired him to protect her from. He recalled how, after the encounter, both she and Lando had nursed him back to health until he felt whole once more. "Logan and Sam keep her very busy," Lando said, chuckling. "Just this morning our wolf pup reached the counter top and made off with half of the special dinner Christy had prepared. She's very anxious to show off just how far her culinary skills have come since you first met. "Has Wolf mentioned to you we have a wolf for a pet? He's well behaved...most of the time. Just don't leave any unattended underwear on the floor, unless you don't mind it being dragged around as a fashion show," Lando said and laughed. He gave a meaningful glance in Wolf's direction. 186
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Wolf could feel his face redden; it had been his underwear that the wolf had gotten a hold of. To his dismay, Casey laughed delightedly when seeing his sudden discomfort. "You never did tell me why you called the wolf Sam," Wolf said, changing the subject. "When the plane we were on crashed, one of the people who was killed was Christy's boss, and her friend. We named him after the man," Lando said, reflecting back. "I had only known the man a few short hours, but I respected him. Sam had tried to protect Christy from my, uh, somewhat rather lewd and suggestive remarks while aboard the plane. Christy had told me later that Sam had been kind to her when she was in desperate need of a friend and recovering from an abusive relationship." "How awful and frightening that must have been," Casey muttered. "I've always been terrified of plane crashes. I can't imagine being in one." "I'm guessing your yacht sinking wasn't much fun either," Lando said kindly to her expression of deep, sincere sympathy. "I was terrified. I would have drowned if not for a dolphin," Casey muttered. "At least your wife had you. I was all alone for awhile." "She didn't really quite have me," Lando said a bit uncomfortably. "I think you both have something in common." "In common and yet completely different," Wolf replied. Intrigued, Casey was glancing back and forth between the two of them, but both remained stubbornly silent. When 187
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Casey sighed, Wolf leaned her head against his shoulder. It had been a long flight and a hectic car ride. She needed to rest, but he highly doubted she would feel comfortable enough to sleep until she finally settled. Wolf would be departing soon, leaving her alone with strange people. He realized her fear when she glanced quickly to Lando, then cast him the same lost, forlorn look which nearly melted his heart with compassion. Feeling Casey quiver beside him had Wolf pulling her close. He knew her fear of Lando was genuine. He thought he had best tell Lando to move carefully around her until she became used to him. He didn't think Lando would appreciate a blow to the head if he startled her. He didn't think Lando would hurt her physically, but Wolf knew his wrath was fierce. Grown, powerful, armed men had been known to seek safety when Lando was in a rage. Casey was tough, but he didn't want to come back to her cowering in terror in a corner, rocking and babbling incoherently, while Lando tried to justify his actions, sporting a bruise. Wolf cupped Casey's chin with a firm grip, forcing her look up at him. "You behave yourself," he told her sternly. His eyes demanded she obey. Casey studied him with confusion. "Wolf, I'm no trouble, unless someone frightens me. Only then would I...oh. I will behave Wolf," she promised. Lando watched the exchange with interest. "Something I should know?" Eyes narrowed in concentration, Wolf scratched at his head. "When Casey gets scared she...if you frighten her by 188
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accident, she will...well, she... Damn, Lando, just never sneak up on her and you'll be fine," Wolf said, exasperated. **** Casey looked up at the huge chalet with interest. It was hard to believe this beautiful home was hidden out in the middle of nowhere. Shuddering , she realized Wolf had not been joking. Lando definitely wanted to remain anonymous. A slight, beautiful, light-haired woman stood before her, holding a baby. The baby was huge. He was also gorgeous, with his midnight hair and dark brown eyes. Casey was captivated. So apparently was Logan. He lifted his arms to the stranger, seeing her interest and immediate adoration. Casey reached for him and cuddled him, breathing in his unique baby scent. She ran a soft hand down thick, silky smooth hair, and a tender thumb across one pudgy cheek. "Oh, he is so beautiful," she whispered. Logan babbled up at her. Christy looked upon them, liking the woman before her immediately. Though she loved her home and its serenity, Christy was eager for the company. She always enjoyed a visit from Wolf. This would be the first woman she would have been around in a very long time. "Well, since I've suddenly been replaced with a younger, cuter man, perhaps you will give me a hug," Wolf said to Christy. She stepped into his arms and held him. "It feels as though you've come home." She turned to Casey, who noted 189
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her eyes were glistening with emotion. "Wolf saved my life and took care of me while I carried Logan in his critical beginning. Without Wolf's care I might have lost Logan. We owe him a great deal. We're happy to finally be able to return the favor." Wolf colored and shifted his feet about at the high praise. "Well, why don't we get Casey settled," Lando suggested. Casey held the boy as they moved about the large chalet. The outside had been impressive; the inside was magnificent—huge chandeliers, a winding oak staircase, and a massive marble fireplace in the living room. There was a mix of polished hardwood flooring, carpeting and ceramic tile throughout placed strategically within the large open concept home. The entire structure was supported by behemoth beams, polished to a high sheen. Lando smiled proudly with the praise Casey lavished. She was well traveled and informed him she had never seen anything so uniquely grand or amazingly constructed. The fact Lando had designed it and built it had Casey looking to the man in awe now instead of fear. They walked up the flight of stairs, and down the hall lit by open high windows. Her room was beautiful and bright and, she noted, directly across from Lando and Christy, with her own en suite. Wolf reached over and removed the baby from her arms and, after giving him a sound kiss to his chubby little cheek, he handed the child over to his mother. He took Casey into his arms and held her closely.
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"Please don't leave already," Casey begged. She thought they would at least have the night together. She had wanted to feel him close once more before he left her. "It will be fine, Casey. The sooner I go, the sooner you will be safe and I can return," Wolf reasoned. "Can't you at least stay for dinner? It's ready. Unless Sam has made off with the rest of it," Christy said. Wolf agreed when both women whined, pleaded, begged, and cajoled. He laughed suddenly. "I guess I better say yes before Lando starts offering death threats at both of your pitiful whimpers." Both Casey and Christy smiled towards each other conspiratorially. Throughout dinner Casey cast Wolf her saddened expression. He could see her battling her fear of being left alone. He wished he could make her understand how much he would like for her to go with him, but it just was not possible. David might already have realized Casey was still alive. If it were him, he would know. Even if the yacht had gone down he would want proof, he would need proof, of Casey's demise. Wolf knew if he were David it was a route well worth taking. After all, the man had planned her murder; he couldn't take the chance of her resurfacing. Wolf needed to know Casey was safe to be able to concentrate on the task at hand. Taking her anywhere near David would be disastrous. When Casey's hand trembled while holding her wine glass, Wolf felt he couldn't resist the urge to still her fears; he owed her that much. He had said to trust him; he couldn't expect her to have blind faith. 191
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He cast a quick glance to Lando, noting he had also been watching Casey's unsteady motions, her pretense of eating. Slowly Wolf rose, standing before Casey. She looked up at him. "We need to talk, Casey." Wolf slipped his hand into hers, excusing them, and led her upstairs to her room. She followed dutifully, like a poor little lamb to the slaughter. He couldn't help but feel compassion for her misgivings. Wolf turned her in his arms after locking her door. She clung to him. "I will come back soon, Casey," Wolf promised. "I know." Her voice was sad, but accepting. Wolf tilted her head back to search her expression. "Is there something else bothering you, sweetheart?" She tensed. "I'm just worried," she replied evasively. "I won't hurt you. I promise not to kill David, what else is there?" "Wolf, will you make love to me? Just once more, before you have to leave." Her hands clasped his to place them on her shoulders. "I just need to feel you near." Feeling confused at the lost loneliness in her voice, Wolf nodded, wanting her, too. He slowly stripped her shirt from her. Each article of her clothing dropped to the floor. Casey made no move to touch him, but her eyes traveled over him as though burning his image into her mind. His fingers reached out to trail a path down her collarbone. His fingertips followed the circle of her dusty, rose-colored nipple; she shuddered as her buds hardened. Wolf watched 192
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her intensely. Her eyes filled with desire as he dropped before her, his hands traveling with his descent from her breast, to her ribs, to her waist, settling to cup her behind, pulling her towards him. He looked up at her. Her head was thrown back, eyes tightly closed, waiting. Wolf's fingers stroked her, parting her. Her body quivered when his tongue tasted her. He couldn't help his smile as she moaned deep in her throat. Her legs began to tremble, slowly at first, until her entire body quivered with each exquisite assault his tongue launched. It wasn't long before her hands buried within his hair. "Wolf, love me please," he heard her whisper. He glided his hands up the swell of her behind. He captured her waist, and as he rose, he lifted her to him. By the time they reached the bed his shirt was off, and both were tugging at his pants when he placed her atop the satin sheets. Again she begged him to love her. Wolf thought he sensed something in the words she chose, a plea. She wasn't asking he make love to her, but begging he love her. Wolf shrugged the thought off. She knew who and what he was; she couldn't possibly want for him to love her. Her mouth was fastened onto the hollow of his throat and Wolf discarded his previous thoughts, becoming lost to her sensual exploration. She stroked his hard length they had managed to free. "Wolf." "I'm here, Casey." Wolf entered her quickly this time; he couldn't resist, feeling her pulling on his shoulders, demanding he take her. 193
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He was surprised at her frenzied response. He knew she loved hearing sweet and caring words, to feel his tender caress, but each time he began to speak she kissed him. He began kissing her back so heatedly they could both scarcely breathe. Their passion mounted, each taking everything the other could give, until Wolf thought he would lose control. Casey was clinging to him, her arms and legs wrapped around him as though she thought he might suddenly vanish. Wolf returned her powerful grip until she cried out. Her fingernails dug into his back and his own howl of release sprang from deep in his chest. Wolf disengaged Casey from around him. He stared with amazed wonder into her tranquil features. He realized, from her prone features, she was already asleep. His finger reached to capture a tear as it slowly made its descent down her soft, sweet cheek. She whispered his name and reached for him. Wolf cuddled her to his chest. His feelings raged, battling the volatile demons within. He couldn't love her; it was impossible for him to love anyone, wasn't it? Besides, she would not want that... Would she? Wolf kissed her lips, his head bowed into her hair. He would not fail her. She must live. He would allow nothing else. Perhaps he could not keep her, but that would not stop him from keeping an eye on her. He settled his dismayed thoughts by convincing himself he could watch her through the rest of her life. He would not be far on the sidelines if she needed him. She once accused him of being a guardian angel; he would become hers. 194
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Wolf held Casey to his chest. He had said his goodbyes to Christy and Logan already and he now stood with her on a large wraparound porch. The sun would soon be rising. Lando was discreetly standing off to the side, waiting to drive Wolf back to the small airport, where a plane awaited his departure. "You won't hurt him?" Casey begged. "I won't kill him," Wolf modified. Resigned, Casey knew what Wolf meant. She would have to take him as he was. She would trust he knew what would be best. David would comply immediately or there would be trouble. Casey knew David; she honestly believed he would comply. Wolf was fearsome. Though David was not a coward by nature, he was still no match for Wolf. Not many were. "Please be careful, Wolf. Come back to me soon," Casey begged. She would have liked to declare her love for him. She had come so close when they had made love, when she had begged for him to love her, yet knew he would not want to hear it. Not now, and not here like this. He had told her often enough he was a lone wolf. When he returned she was certain they would go their separate ways, but perhaps she could encourage a few more special moments. Wolf had promised to keep her safe. Once his mission was accomplished she was certain he would disappear. "I will return as fast as I can. Don't be afraid, Casey, you are safe here." "I am safe with you," she said, holding him, trying not to weep but failing miserably. 195
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Wolf broke their contact. He kissed her once more, wiping away her tears, and he left. Casey watched him go, sobbing. She felt a small, tentative arm wrap around her shoulder and welcomed Christy's embrace. The two women turned and reentered the chalet. [Back to Table of Contents]
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Chapter Fifteen **** Casey sat drinking a glass of white wine companionably with Christy and Lando. She had begged exhaustion and had retired to hide in her room shortly after Wolf left. Casey had been right in thinking she and Christy were kindred spirits; she expressed understanding immediately towards her fears and had told Casey if she needed anything at all she would be close. For most of the morning Casey had remained out of sight, giving in to her tears of frustration and her overwhelming sadness at being separated from Wolf. After they had spent so much time together, she felt an important piece of her was missing. Logan had been put down for a nap and Lando had encouraged her to sit with them. In fact, he had gone to her room and practically dragged her from it, insisting she needed to be around people and should not remain alone and cooped up all day. He had insisted the fresh air would work wonders. Casey had the distinct impression it was Lando who was dying to have her come and talk to them. Casey looked out over the large expanse of porch. The foliage surrounding the area was impressive. Massive trees surrounded their home like an impenetrable fortress, with small paths leading off to various areas, obviously made by animals. She was aware Lando was watching her. She 197
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remained undaunted, having been conditioned to this peculiarity from Wolf. "He will return soon, Casey," Lando said. His deep voice broke the quiet tranquility of the day, though his tone was calming and somehow fit the rugged surroundings. Casey nodded, knowing it would not take him long to track down David. That was not her concern; she knew he would honor her request and leave David alive. Her distress stemmed from what would happen when he accomplished his mission. He would leave her. She looked over at Lando, and he seemed surprised with her apprehensiveness. "Thank you for watching me and welcoming me into your home," Casey said. "No one can hurt you out here. I will cause you no harm," Lando informed her, obviously wondering at her distress. "I'm not afraid," Casey told him with a small, sad smile and it was an honest answer. During breakfast Casey had witnessed Logan romping and playing with his bear of a father, and she had settled. The baby crawled around after the huge man, seeking his attention. Lando had been more than eager to play with the child. Tossing him to the sky and recapturing him in safe arms. He had cuddled his son to his powerful chest and nuzzled his neck, encouraging laughter, until Casey's own had resounded unrestrained. The whole while, Sam had bounded about on huge feet he had yet to grow into, yipping playfully. It was all too apparent how much Lando loved his family. "He will come back to you," Christy told her. 198
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"Yes, he will return," Casey said. Her tone was light, but it was obvious even to her own ears something was amiss. "Casey..." Lando began. "You were misled if Wolf told you I was someone he cherished," Casey said to Lando. She looked at him, anguished. "Wolf wants me safe because he feels bad for me. Because he...he hurt me once and he feels he owes me. He tells me I'm an innocent and never should have been placed into the position I am in. That's what is really important to him. Once David is stopped, Wolf will go away. He doesn't want me. I am not someone he cherishes or wants close forever." The pain radiating from her soul was an almost tangible force. Casey had not allowed tears to fall, though her eyes were burning. Her jaw was clamped tight to stop it from quivering. She kept her face impassive; nevertheless her glass shook so violently when she picked it up she was forced to put it down. She swallowed hard, waiting for their response at the deception. "You are mistaken," Lando voiced calmly. "I don't feel I was misled. Wolf cares for you a great deal, I can see it." "Why did he hurt you?" Christy asked. "It was my fault. We were on the island alone for quite some time together; all we had was each other. He let me get to know him after a while, although it took a great deal of prodding and coaxing on my part." Casey shuddered before continuing. "When we first met he made me promise never to tell anyone who he was or what he did, ever." 199
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She was unable to control the fear, which must have flashed in her eyes, and she knew they could see that Wolf had threatened her with something terrifying. He had no other choice if he wished to keep Casey alive. If the authorities were to go after Wolf, if Casey revealed his intended crime, it could lead them to others, depending on the circumstances; mean and dangerous others. Whether or not Wolf then made good on his threat to her, someone else might be forced to finish what he had started. Whatever Wolf had threatened her with should have sufficed, why it might not have appeared to confuse Lando. "What happened?" Christy breathed out. "We were on the beach. We had been keeping a signal fire blazing all day. It was so terribly hot I needed to cool off. Wolf had come from the ocean seeking the same thing, but sent me back to the falls we had found. "There was a huge stingray swimming in the shallow part extremely close to the beach and he didn't want me to be hurt. When I went to the falls I dunked my head and, after emerging, heard a voice from behind me. It was Todd, a man I had met on the ship and another survivor. He had been alone on the island for so long he was ecstatic to see another living soul. His over-enthusiasm frightened me and I hit him over the head with a rock to escape and raced back to Wolf." Casey had drawn her knees up to her chest; she began quivering. "Did you tell Todd?" Lando asked. "Todd was mad because I hit him with the rock and he accused me of lying because while we were on the boats, I 200
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had told him twice Wolf was after me." Casey looked up at Lando, this time allowing her tears to fall. "I started to tell him I didn't lie. I started to tell what had happened, but Wolf stopped me. He cut me off quickly and said to Todd he had been trying to propose. When he came at me he was so angry, I realized right away what I had almost done. I knew he was wondering if I would keep my word as I had promised. He made it appear he was considering killing Todd and perhaps even me. I was so scared. It would have been simple for him to do away with us. Everyone would just assume we drowned in the storm. I felt he only would have kept me alive for company until others arrived." "You must have been terrified," Christy said. Her own tears began falling for the distraught woman. "He grabbed my arm and dragged me back to the fire at the falls. It felt as though he were crushing my bones. He threw me down to the ground and then went to get some water; I could see he was struggling with his rage. I had already been injured when the yacht went down and my body hurt everywhere, it seemed. But I was so scared, wondering what he would do next. "When he came back he still looked so infuriated, I knew I needed to do something to save our lives. But Todd was sitting there watching us. I couldn't beg him for our lives in front of him," Casey continued. Though her shaking had increased, she managed to control her tears. "For me to beg for our lives openly would have had the man, Todd, realize instantly something was amiss. Wolf would 201
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have had no other choice but to kill or brutalize the man into silence." "What did you do?" Lando asked. "I remembered after I had hit Wolf with the low branch and knocked him down—" Casey started. "You nailed him with a branch?" Lando interrupted her, eyebrows raised. "Well, after I hit him with the coconut, knocking him out, and then the log, he threatened me never to hit him in the head again. The branch got him in the chest," Casey said, feeling a bit defensive because of his incredulous tone. Lando was suddenly laughing. "It's not funny, I was terrified," Casey said, bristling. "Now I understand the warning," Lando said, trying to control himself. "The images alone are priceless." "What happened with Todd?" Christy interrupted, dying of curiosity. "I pulled myself into Wolf's lap and rubbed his arms and shoulders, trying to calm him enough to listen. I whispered to him I would do anything for him. I told him I was sorry. He spared our lives, then had me pretend to be in love with him. He told Todd we were engaged. I was still so afraid. Wolf can be so tender at times but when he is angry he is so fierce," Casey said, finishing her story. "How did you manage to placate him enough to spare you the first time?" Lando asked, obviously intrigued at her ingenuity. "I know Wolf's hunting style. He usually never allows anyone to see him coming." 202
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Warily Casey looked at Lando as he eagerly awaited her explanation. "I explained what really happened to Abby after I knocked him out with a tree branch that fell from a trip line I devised, and tied him up with vines." She grimaced as Lando once more howled with uproarious laughter. "Lando!" Christy interfered. "I can't wait for Wolf to get back," Lando said, making no effort to hide the fact he was amused. "No wonder he's so intrigued by you. No one has ever gotten the best of him." "Lando, Casey must have been terrified. How can you laugh about this?" Christy admonished. Sobering, Lando looked over at Casey's tear-streaked face and smiled gently at her. "I'm sorry, sweetheart, I understand you must have been terribly frightened, but you've got guts. I respect that. Defying a man like him, I'm impressed. Even grown, huge, powerful men are afraid to defy the Wolf." "I did it for David," Casey said, feeling the pain. "Damn the man to hell!" Lando exclaimed, to her surprise. She jumped, startled by his sudden change to furious anger. "Wolf told me your story, although he neglected to mention the branch incident. I was disgusted at the man's betrayal to his own wife. God forbid if anything were to happen to Logan, I would need Christy's support as much as she would need mine. To have accused you of murdering his child, and then attempting to murder you is unfathomable. It had obviously been a terrible accident. I can barely imagine the betrayal you suffered. 203
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"Wolf will take care of it, Casey," he added, eyes narrowed. "If word ever arises he is once more seeking to harm you, Wolf will take care of him permanently." Casey almost shuddered at Lando's now intense look. She scratched Sam behind the ears, ruffling his soft fur. The fluffy light grey wolf had found her interesting. Although still a pup, his size was already intimidating. Casey had found the animal to be equally fascinating and had made a friend of him by early breakfast with the small pieces of bacon she had unobtrusively handed him under the quaint oak table. He now sat leaning heavily against her side; his head lay upon her thigh. He had not been exposed to many new people and, though curious, he had been wary of her at first. But Wolf had been a smell he remembered. Wolf was a friend, a recognized member of the pup's pack, and since she had come with him, the pup decided to allow her for the moment. Logan's sudden babbling from the monitor on the table before them had Christy rising to fetch her son from his nap, leaving Lando and Casey alone. Casey studied Lando as he studied her. "Did you tell him you love him?" Lando asked her, surprising her. "What would be the point?" she replied. "Once he knows your feelings he only has to figure out his own. I'll tell you a little secret, sweetheart. Men are bright creatures until it comes to feelings. If he has to try and figure out yours and his at the same time it will take him longer. Save him the strain of the unknown," Lando advised. 204
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Casey thought about that for a moment. Although it made perfect sense, she would still risk being hurt again. Could she do that for Wolf? She felt so confused. There were so many reasons why she should encourage Wolf to remove himself from her life. He was an assassin. That was what he was and who he was. How could she have a future with him? Yet, Wolf's father had been an assassin and Wolf's mother had loved him. Wolf had loved him. Thoughts resounded in her head. Wolf did not kill innocents. Because of his sister's death, he killed the evil. Did that make him evil? Casey knew he was dangerous, but no, she admitted, she did not consider him to be evil. How could she when she loved him? There was no doubt in her mind anymore. "Lando?" "Tell him, Casey. Don't give away an opportunity. I see your fear. Ask yourself if you would be more afraid to live with him, than without him," Lando said. "How do I get him to listen?" "Hit him over the head," Lando said, and chuckled. [Back to Table of Contents]
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Chapter Sixteen **** Over the next few days, Casey began to relax while in the capable care of Lando. She was certain the solitude and serenity that abounded was also helpful. Christy proved to be a woman of compassion and caring, and had calmed any residual fears Casey had. Logan always provided a sweet distraction and she was drawn to the child. Sam had indeed one day made off with her underwear, though when Lando had returned them to her in a flourish, chuckling, he had grandly exclaimed to her embarrassment, "Welcome to the family!" Casey still pondered the discussion she had with Lando about Wolf. Lando was inquisitive and had coaxed her into telling him her entire life story. Though closemouthed about his own past, Christy had told her the story of how they had met. How Lando had sought to end her life with a mercy killing while out in the deep woods, miles from civilization, after the plane they were in crashed. Christy's poor battered body had been so badly bruised, Lando had felt certain he would be committing a kindness if he ended her life quickly, instead of leaving her exposed to the elements and wild animals. He had been moved to offer her aid instead. She spoke fondly of the memories while Wolf had protected her. She said though she was terrified of him at the 206
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time, he had kept her safe. He was indeed a man of his word. He kept his promises. Casey had watched as Lando fed pieces of apple to a deer and had encouraged her to do the same, holding out her hand within his own. As the dainty lips nuzzled her palm, her exclamations of wonder had Lando chuckling fondly at her, caught up in her rapture. Casey had never before fed wild animals and had been amazed as Lando fed mini-marshmallows to a raccoon while Christy rifled off pictures at a furious pace. The serenity was captivating. She wondered if she could convince Wolf to give up his frightening lifestyle to adapt to something as glorious as this. Sadly, she realized that unless he could overcome his sister's brutal death, it would be impossible. There was a terrible anger inside Wolf, a need to seek justice for the innocents of the world time and time again. A continuous release he had to explore. Wolf was indeed a formidable opponent; he strove to dominate the men around him, taking control of every encounter. She wondered at his desire to keep her safe. Did he somehow feel if he kept her from harm he could finally atone for not being able to help his baby sister? He had helped Christy, perhaps because he had been injured in the skirmish, and it had, in fact, been a young boy who had saved Christy from his father's wrath. Maybe Wolf felt he had failed her as well. She wondered on a deeper emotional level if Wolf was angry with himself over that too. If the young boy could save 207
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Christy, why could he not have saved his own sister when he had been young? Wolf was battling a great many demons. Casey helped Christy prepare dinner that night. They spoke companionably while Lando entertained Logan and listened to their conversation, bouncing the child upon his knee. "You are a wonderful cook," Casey said to Christy. She munched on a raw carrot, dicing them for salad while the stuffed Cornish game hens roasted on the oven's rotisserie. Christy smiled. "Lando and Wolf were great teachers," she exclaimed. Having basted the hens from the heavenly juices dripping into a pan underneath, she mixed sweet potatoes with brown sugar, cream and butter. "Wolf?" Casey asked, amazed. She paused at her task. "Yes, Wolf is a great chef. He made sure I ate well; he took care of everything," Christy said, though she paused in her work watching with curiosity at Casey's animated expression. "That rat!" Casey exclaimed heatedly. Lando chuckled as if sensing another story. "Didn't he cook for you?" Christy asked. "No, not ever. I found the food, I cooked the food, and he ate the food," Casey said with annoyance. She suddenly lightened up. "Well, there was the wild pig incident. But I still cooked it, and then stored it for later." "Wild pig?" Lando asked. "It chased me and I fell. If Wolf hadn't been such a letch, and was spying on me while I bathed, it would have gored me, or killed me. He saved my life. He claimed I was the only 208
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entertaining thing on the island to watch. I guess I don't really mind. He did also save me from that huge snake that attacked Todd," Casey mused. "Poor Todd. But if it hadn't been for him being bitten I never would have found out Wolf was jealous. He certainly was in a rage that night. I didn't think I'd ever calm him down." She rolled her eyes in mock exasperation. "You and I are going to have to sit down again and talk after dinner," Lando declared. Casey chuckled at his expression. The man was even more curious than Wolf. She hoped after this was over she would one day be allowed to return to visit. She liked the family before her, and was growing fonder of them by the second. She only wished she could have her own. Casey had been right; it had not taken long for Wolf to track David down. Tracking was a specialty Wolf excelled in. Wolf had gone to their secluded cabin, knowing the man would be playing the bereaved husband and needing solitude. No doubt while counting Casey's money. Wolf stalked David as he gathered wood to take inside. He moved unhurriedly, knowing the man was alone and unaware he was under surveillance. David sat the wood down by the large fireplace and turned, intent on gathering more. His eyes widened in disbelief. He retreated a step as Wolf appeared before him. David lifted a hand to his heart. "Good God, you scared me! Where the hell did you come from? I thought you were dead," David said on a generous amount of expelled air. "You misled me." Wolf approached David, wasting no time. 209
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"What do you mean?" David stammered. "Casey did not murder your daughter," Wolf said with conviction. "So she got to you," David said bitterly. He continued his retreat. "Casey loved your daughter," Wolf snarled. "She killed her," David spat out, his face reddening in apparent frustration. Wolf moved swiftly. He smashed David against a wall with his forearm pressed to his throat. "A car accident killed Abby. The money isn't yours either, is it?" "Is that what you want, more money? I can get it. Is that what she offered you for her life?" David choked. He pushed at Wolf, trying to dislodge his arm, but Wolf remained steadfast. David was no match for the powerful, angry man. It was not long before David's struggles ceased. Wolf held him firmly, easily. The sun glinted off something shiny, capturing Wolf's attention; he reached out and unhooked a small fishing lure David had made into a type of pin. He fondled it, thinking hard. David's eyes shifted from the lure to Wolf. He looked away guiltily. Wolf knew he had been right; David blamed himself for his child's death. The thought angered him further; he would plot the demise of a caring, helpless woman to meet his own needs. His own wife! Wolf glared heated daggers at the pathetic man before him, feeling he was no innocent, as Casey was, but he had promised her he would not bring about this fool's destruction. 210
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"I want you to leave Casey alone. Forever. You get within a hundred miles of her and I'll know. You send anyone else after her and I will kill you. Do you understand?" Wolf snapped into his face. "It's too late," David cried out. "What do you mean, too late?" Wolf howled, a sinking feeling beginning in his belly. "When your boat went down, a man came to me wanting to know what you had been working on, a man like you. I told him everything. I told him who you were after. I told him why I sent you after her. He didn't want any money to finish the job you started; he thought you were dead. He went to make certain Casey was." "Who was he?" Wolf yelled, enraged. He shook David, snapping the man's head back and forth. "I don't know! He found me. He only told me his name was Tyr." David slumped to the floor slowly as Wolf released him. He was sobbing, no doubt assuming his life would now come to an end. Wolf stood stunned. Casey was in grave danger. Tyr was another expert tracker. He needed to act quickly. He needed to get back to her now, or she would die. Lando would be unaware how deadly the man was, or that he was coming. He looked down, furious at the man slumped on the floor before him. He was curled into a tight ball, pleading for his life. Wolf crouched before him as David cowered back. His hands splayed before him, whimpering for mercy. "Now you know how Casey felt. How frightened she was. Even by the end, she fought for you because she loved you 211
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and Abby. You owe her your life. But make no mistake. If she dies, you die. There will be nowhere you can hide from me," Wolf said. Wolf rose; he tossed the fishing lure at David's feet and was once again on the move. Casey held Logan in her arms, rocking on her feet, and sang him a soft lullaby. She cuddled him to her breast, kissed his sweet cheek, and wished he was hers. She missed Abby terribly. Logan seemed to help fill a void deep within. She was very grateful Wolf had brought her here. Though she would never stop loving Abby, she could feel some of the hurt lessening. She was not surprised when Lando appeared beside her. Like Wolf, he moved quietly. Unless he wanted you to hear his approach, you would not. It never ceased to amaze her how two such large, powerful men could move so stealthily. "He's asleep," Lando said, and gazed down into his son's peaceful face. "I know. I just like to hold him," Casey said, admiring the sleeping child. Smiling at her, Lando removed his son from her arms and placed him into his crib. His large hand settled briefly onto the child's forehead. He covered him over with a light blanket and steered Casey from the room. With his arm draped round her shoulders, he propelled her to the living room, where Christy had hot chocolate waiting. Casey sat in the corner of an overstuffed couch, her feet curled under her. She accepted the steaming mug and sipped at it slowly. Tomorrow she knew Lando would drive out to 212
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hear word from Wolf at a prearranged location. Once there, Lando would retrieve a prepaid cell phone he kept in a safety box at an undisclosed location. He had informed Casey any electronic device could be tracked. This way the casing the phone remained in was undetectable unless the phone was activated. Lando had the tracking time down to a science; between himself and Wolf, only one word needed to be uttered. Casey felt somewhat apprehensive about Wolf's return, but she remained determined. She decided she would confess her love to him upon his arrival. After that it was up to him. He could accept her or reject her. Still, Casey could not part from him unless she tried. "What time must you go?" Christy asked Lando. "Early. I'll get a few supplies. You certain you don't want to come?" he asked Christy. "No, I think Casey and I can have a heart to heart about stubborn men while you're gone," she said, and chuckled at her husband's look of indignation. "I'm not the stubborn one. You already caught me," he reminded her. "Nonetheless, I bet if we put our heads together Wolf won't stand a chance," Christy reasoned. "I don't think he ever did," Lando said, and winked at Casey. Casey reddened. She looked at Lando, feeling a fond warmth for him. She had never had siblings, but she was certain if she had, she would want Lando as a big brother. His questions to her were relentless, although she sensed his 213
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obvious curiosity and concern. He had indeed moved painstakingly around her until he felt certain she had become accustomed to his large frame. She sensed his genuine compassion. He no longer intimidated her; she felt safe when he was nearby. Christy had hinted vaguely of Lando's sad, lonely past, the obstacles he had endured to become the man he was today. Casey's admiration grew with each heart-wrenching story Christy had described to her. Though Casey's parents loved her dearly, she had spent a great deal of time alone and away from home. She understood aloneness. She had formed a bond with these people. She deeply respected them both. She envied their love of one another, but was pleased for the both of them. Christy curled up onto Lando's lap and, smiling, Casey excused herself, feeling their need for some quiet time. She drifted to the kitchen, gave Sam a quick pet to his head, washed her cup, and headed for bed. Tomorrow would be busy day. Once Casey left, Christy rubbed Lando's chest. Her thoughtful expression was worried. Lando could sense her agitation and he cupped her chin to raise her head. Christy looked fretfully into his eyes. "It will be fine, sweetheart," Lando soothed. "Wolf is just so stubborn," Christy declared. Lando chuckled at her look of concern. He realized she had grown fond of Casey, as had he. "If it was meant to be, it will happen. There is nothing we can do." 214
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Christy settled against him, snuggling into his warmth. "You realize if it does work out it will make a great story," Christy informed him. Lando groaned. "Listen, kitten..." Lando began. "Oh please, Lando?" Christy begged. "Please, please. You know how I love to write. You know I will change the names and places. No one would ever guess these stories were real." Lando sighed. As always, her begging struck a chord deep within. "Don't be surprised if it's Wolf reading over your shoulder instead of me this time," he said, exasperated. Christy kissed him, running her hands over him until Lando rose with her captured to his powerful chest. With her cuddled against him, they retired for the night, although sleep was not foremost on their minds. [Back to Table of Contents]
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Chapter Seventeen **** Lando had left early that morning, wanting to return as quickly as possible. With a touch of trepidation, he asked Christy once again if she would like to accompany him, but she had wryly joked about him listening in on every one of her and Casey's conversations. She hinted Casey might like some female advice for a change. Lando had relented grudgingly. He did not like leaving Christy and Logan for any length of time unprotected, though he remained positive their whereabouts remained undetected after all this time. When he had retrieved Wolf and Casey, he had placed them in his safe room. He knew Christy would not accept the room while there was no apparent danger. Resigned, Lando had offered her a stern warning and left. Casey arose from her queen-sized bed. The fresh air aided with her sleep and she rolled over in her bed, stretching leisurely. She wanted to take a walk alone today to sort out her feelings about Wolf. She wanted to rehearse her speech, not giving him time to run away or make jokes. After she had showered and dressed, she made her way downstairs to the kitchen, where Christy was spooning oatmeal into Logan's happy, eager, little rosebud mouth. Casey could not control the impulse to kiss Logan's cheek as he babbled delighted, incoherent words upon seeing her. His 216
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pudgy little arms waved as Casey told him for the hundredth time how handsome he was. "The kettle has boiled," Christy told her. Casey made herself some tea. She sat at the table and sipped at it slowly, her mind elsewhere. "Are you hungry?" Christy asked. "No," Casey said, lost in thought. "Everything will be fine, Casey. Lando will return soon enough with word from Wolf and his success. Wolf will tell him when to expect him and you'll be ready for him when he gets here. We will make him listen to reason," Christy soothed, seeing her new friend's agitation. "Do you mind if I go for a short walk? I just need to sort out my words in my head," Casey asked. "Of course I don't mind. Just stay on the path Lando marked with the yellow ribbons; the other colors don't lead anywhere; he marked them purposely to confuse trespassers. Well, in case there are any who come. He has them leading to all sorts of places where he has interesting traps set up. You won't get lost. Just stick to the trail," Christy said, smiling. Casey rose soon after, intent on having a heart to heart with herself. She hugged Christy, grateful for her kind words, and fluffed a tuft of Logan's hair. She strolled out the back door and was soon lost in thought. Christy watched her go, feeling sorry and concerned for her. She remembered declaring her own love to Lando. He had needed time to sort out his feelings, never having loved before. Perhaps that was Wolf's problem. Christy felt lucky 217
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Lando had accepted her; she would not want to live without him. Smiling at Logan, Christy cleared the table while her son sat, making short work of a biscuit. Christy hummed while wiping off counter tops and putting the dishes into the dishwasher. Once finished, she washed Logan's face and hands and removed him from his high chair. Christy moved them into the living room, where she placed Logan into his playpen while she set up her laptop. Still humming softly to herself, Christy was intent on starting her new novel, certain of a happy ending. Christy had become absorbed in her work and was surprised as half an hour later, Sam slowly wandered into the room. He appeared sluggish. Curiously, Christy watched as he staggered dopily and then slumped. His legs seemed to just collapse beneath him. Christy ran to him, concerned. Sam lay panting heavily and stretched out onto his side. "Sam!" she cried with concern as the wolf quieted. Though breathing, he lay now completely motionless and unresponsive, his tongue lolling out the side of his mouth. "He'll be fine in a few hours," a rough, deep voice told her. Spinning around, Christy sucked in her breath and stepped back as a large, brown-haired man approached her. Her breath quickened as she stared up into his blue, soulless eyes that gazed upon her impassively. Over his t-shirt he wore a large, grey side iron, strapped on. He had yet to remove the weapon, feeling he did not need it. The man sensed no danger. He knew immediately the woman before him was not his target. She was neither big 218
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enough, nor tall enough. Though the woman he was after would indeed be small compared to him, the woman before him was tiny. She was also terrified. It would not take much to coerce information from her. "Please don't hurt my baby," Christy whimpered, hands splayed. Though the man was not quite as large as Lando, he was an impressive size and more than twice as big as she. Christy stopped before the playpen, where Logan babbled and cooed, alternately sucking on a toy, then banging it. "Please ," she wept. "I'm not here for you, or the baby," he replied, taking in the scene before him. He kept his voice low and throaty to intimidate. He knew they had been left unprotected; he had been surprised at the fact. He had been watching from a safe distance as Lando left. His car had not gone far as he had ventured a nearby hill and used binoculars. He waited until he felt enough time had elapsed before venturing forth. The wolf pup had caused him no trouble. As he approached the car, all that was needed was a single dart to his side from the safety of the open window, and the pup had trotted homeward before collapsing. The pair before him remained completely at his mercy. He looked down on the cowering, helpless, slight woman before him. She trembled as he moved closer, stalking her. "Lando is gone!" Christy cried out, fearful he wanted her husband. She cried out again with greater fear as he stepped closer and reached for her. 219
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He pulled her towards him, gripping her upper arms. "Where's the girl?" he demanded down into her frightened features. For a moment Christy looked at him confused, until realization dawned. "Gone! She left already," Christy cried out, terrified. "Try again!" He shook her, the force snapping her head back and forth like a child's rag doll. "I don't know where she is. Please go away," Christy sobbed, pushing on him. Logan began crying, hearing his mother's distress. He had hauled himself up, gripping unsteadily at the playpen walls, and began pulling on the bottom of Christy's shirt, wanting to be picked up and reassured. "I know she is here," he yelled into her face. Once more he shook her, the action causing Logan to lose his grip, and he thumped to the playpen, landing on his behind. He howled in surprise and anger. Christy cried out as well, from the pain he was inflicting. His large hands wrapped themselves completely around her upper arms, squeezing, until he could feel the grinding of the delicate bones. "Don't hurt us, please, oh please no," Christy wept up at him. His eyes narrowed and he looked past Christy to Logan, who was wailing even more loudly than his mother, tears streaming down his frightened little face. Christy grabbed at the man's shirt. He glared at her. "How much do you want him to live?" 220
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"Please, she is not here. I beg you please, he is only a baby. Please don't hurt him. Please," Christy sobbed. He glared down at her, his grip pulling her almost off her feet as she flailed helplessly before him. Christy launched an assault and beat at his powerful chest with small fists, trying to inflict some type of damage, to no avail. She kicked at him, connecting soundly with a shin, yet her feet were bare and the one to sustain the most damage was her. She tried stomping on his foot, but he wore black, ankle-high boots and she may as well have been connecting with rocks. He lifted her higher to his own height, his eyes boring into her own panicked expression. She was helpless against him. Her struggling ceased. Pitifully, her head bowed to rest against his shoulder; her body crumpled within his grasp. She cried in defeat, sobbing. "Let her go, I'm over here," came Casey's soft voice from the doorway. Her face pale, she was staring, horrified, towards the large man, who had Christy grasped to his chest, holding her so inhumanly. "Run!" Christy screamed to her. Hearing her soft voice, the man glanced to where the sound originated from and immediately released Christy, throwing her onto the couch. Christy slipped to the floor with a bang, but was up scrambling for Logan. She pulled the baby into her arms and raced for the other side of the room, cowering in terror, holding her child close, wrapping her quivering body around him protectively. He ignored her. His intense gaze settled onto Casey's terrified form. This was the murdering bitch he was after... 221
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Casey had been walking and thinking. She had determined she would make Wolf listen. She would climb into his lap and beg once more if she needed to, she had decided. If that didn't work she would take Lando's advice and hit him over the head again, his wrath be damned. She held no fear of him; she loved him. Feeling more confident after her deliberations, she had approached the chalet. She was wary and puzzled to see the dark car parked, motor running, near the porch. Hearing Christy's screams and Logan's howls of fear, she had forgotten her wariness and raced inside. The first thing she noted was an unmoving Sam, sprawled as though dead upon the carpet. Seeing the large man holding and shaking Christy and hearing his demanding threats as to her whereabouts, she knew she had no other choice. These people had helped her. They had taken her into their home and called her friend. She could be no less. Casey whimpered, cowering back, as the man approached her. She refused to run, knowing Christy and Logan's fate rested in her hands, although she was unable to stop her arms from covering her head. He was tall and powerful and grasped her easily to his hard chest, gripping her, clutching her wrists. Casey could hear Christy screaming from across the room. She heard Logan's pitiful wails. "Please not here. Not in front of them. Please let them live," Casey begged. "I won't fight you. He's only a baby. Christy is terrified and can't possibly come after you. They are no threat to you. Please, you are so big; you must see they are no threat to you." 222
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The man yanked on her arms, grabbing her, and easily tossing her over his shoulder, striding from the home, taking quick, deliberate steps. Casey was thrown into a car, not struggling, remembering her promise, and the man sped off, gravel flying, down the dirt road. Casey cowered against the side of the door. Her body shook. She sobbed brokenly. Wolf! her mind screamed. "Please don't hurt me," Casey whimpered, her body pressed against the door handle. The man glared at her. Her breath caught and held for a moment and she pressed herself further against the door at his furious gaze, ignoring the painful pressure in her need to seek escape. If she hadn't known better she would have sworn he hated her; loathing contempt radiated from his very core. But it was impossible; she had no idea who he was. "Please, who are you?" "Tyr." "Please, Tyr, don't hurt me," Casey wept again. The man was as big as Wolf, his physique an uncanny resemblance, though his facial features were distinctly different. His cropped, dark-brown hair glistened at the tips with sweat. His bright blue eyes shot repeated, enraged glances at her. His menacing look terrified her. Casey could detect no mercy. "Please, Tyr, it's a mistake. He went to stop him. He promised to stop him," Casey choked out. "I didn't kill Abby, I swear. Please, Tyr, I swear. Let me explain." "I'm not here because of Abby." 223
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Confused, Casey watched as the man drove, obviously heading for a prearranged destination. A deeply disturbing thought suddenly occurred to her. What if Roll had contracted Tyr to bring her to him? She had known what he wanted; Roll had hinted to Wolf he would buy her off him for a decent price. Casey cried out at the thought of spending the rest of her life in bondage, being forced to serve a man who would name himself her master. "Oh no. Please don't do that to me. Please, Tyr, I beg you, no," Casey sobbed. Her chest heaved and her breath became ragged. "You deserve no less," Tyr informed her. "I will pay you whatever you want, double what you want. Please let me go," Casey begged. Tyr snapped his head in her direction. "Do you think money can repay your crime?" he howled enraged. "What crime? Please, I don't understand what you mean," she wept. Tyr slowed the car and, to Casey's horror, they stopped beside a lake. "Tyr, no!"she screamed in sudden understanding. Tyr turned to look at her as she clawed against the door, trying to escape, her fear overwhelming her. He grabbed at her arm and pulled her from the car. Casey begged him for mercy, an ounce of compassion, but he was relentless, dragging her behind him. "Please, Tyr, he went to stop him. He promised. Please talk to him, I beg you. Tyr, please no, please no," Casey cried out. 224
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Soon enough Casey stood on the bank, clutched to the large man. The lake was small. The stilled water looked as though a sheet of glass covered over it. Not even the slight breeze offered a ripple. There were no homes or cottages dotting the shoreline. They were completely alone together. Her body shook as he threw her to the ground and he breathed in ragged breaths of air. Tyr bowed his head. He turned and faced Casey as she cowered, terrified, and wept for compassion, sobbing and gasping. "You're going to tell me what I want to know," Tyr demanded, angry. "You will tell me everything I need to know. Or so help me, you will be screaming for death before I am finished with you." Tyr reached for her, grabbing her arm, intent on yanking her to her feet. Casey flailed wildly; she struck out with a rock her knee had collided with upon her fall. She bashed him in the side of the head. When Tyr stumbled back, bellowing in outrage, Casey ran, stumbling as fast and as far away from him as possible. He would show her no mercy as Wolf had. He wanted her dead. He was going to torture her and then drown her. Casey ran for her very life. [Back to Table of Contents]
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Chapter Eighteen **** Casey raced through the woods, seeking some kind of refuge, her heart pounding. She knew it would not be long before the man followed. She had not hit him hard enough to stop him; she was not nearly strong enough. She needed to hide. Somewhere, now! She jumped over felled logs and rocks, careful not to trip on exposed roots or slippery moss, knowing Wolf would not be saving her this time. She was on her own. She ducked under heavy coniferous limbs and pushed through clinging branches, having no destination in mind; she was unfamiliar with the area. She needed to escape. Casey could hear heavy breathing gaining on her. She turned and saw the terrifying image of the powerful man stumbling after her; already he was only a few mere feet away. He looked murderous, his face red with rage. His massive fists were balled. His eyes were wild, his ascent towards her a mad, frenzied pace, intent on only one thing. Casey screamed, her thundering heart near bursting from her chest in overwhelming fear. She spotted a cluster of rocks and, relieved, she cried out, seeing a small dark opening. She raced for it, hoping it would offer some type of refuge. The hole was small and Casey squeezed in, pushing herself back as far as she could, pressing against the cold stone. It was not deep enough; he would be able to reach her. Casey 226
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knew he would have gained on her too quickly. She could not hope to outrun him. His anger was driving him, his powerful hunter's mindset determined to capture its prey. Hopefully this way she could at least catch her breath. With a bit of luck she could give her tired body a way to rejuvenate while she collected her frenzied thoughts. Her mind raced. Maybe even Lando would come if she could just fend Tyr off long enough. If only she could be strong enough to resist. Tyr dropped to his knees in front of the opening, breathing raggedly. He only rested momentarily, catching his breath, both realizing she was not going anywhere. "Come out," he demanded. "Go away!" Casey shrieked. "I am angry enough already. If you wish for me not to beat you as well, you will come out immediately," Tyr threatened. Casey cried brokenly. He was going to kill her regardless, what did it matter what he threatened? She would not willingly hand over her life ever again. She wanted to be with Wolf. Her mind cried out to him in agony. "Please go away. Please don't hurt me," she whimpered, feeling spent. Her arm rose up to cover her eyes, trying to shut him out, willing him to go away. Tyr reached into the hole. Casey screamed as he gripped her shirt, ripping it while pulling, dragging her from within. She emerged, kicking and howling as her body scraped over the hard forest floor, her arms flailing, trying to instill some type of damage as he dragged her over the uneven ground. 227
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Tyr pinned her beneath himself, pulling her hands above her head to pinion her small body. Casey struggled beneath him, trying desperately to dislodge him. It was no use; she was completely immobilized. He was too powerful, too big, and too heavy. She was completely helpless. She found it difficult to breathe as he positioned more of his weight upon her slight form. She gasped for air. Her terrified mind registered he was in control. Her screams quieted to a labored, frenzied breathing. She became terrified of what he might do to her before he killed her. Her thoughts raced back to her friend's disclosure and the awful degradation, pain, and humiliation she suffered while she had been assaulted. Terrified, she realized this man would not leave her alive when he finished with her. She would disclose to no one. "Please, no," she whimpered. Her body quieted beneath him as she tired. He needed only his weight pressed against her to keep her stationary. She could feel the firmness of his body pressed close to hers. "Don't do that to me," she cried. Tyr's own ragged breathing still came in gulps after his mad dash after her. He calmed his rage lest he kill her right now, his anger was so great. He understood her frightened plea, though he wanted no part of that. He wanted answers first. Casey looked into his eyes, pleading. She whimpered up at him, begging for his mercy. A trail of blood trickled from his forehead where Casey had hit him with the rock. He would show no pity and she was too tired to fight anymore. It would seem David's contract would be fulfilled after all. 228
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"Wolf," Casey cried. "Please, Wolf, come, you promised. You promised me." Tyr stilled above her. He remained motionless for brief moment. Casey was spent. She would be fighting no more, he was certain. Tyr pulled himself up, still pinning her hands above her head; he sat poised over her waist, pressing her into the ground, watching as her struggling halted. Her breath came in quick gasps. She looked about herself, seeking something, someone. Escape was futile; he could see the realization in her eyes. They filled with the hopelessness of her desperation. "Wolf, please come," Casey continued to beg. "Please, Wolf, I need you. I...I love you, Wolf. I love you." Casey sobbed, whimpering for Wolf to save her as he had in the past. She wanted to hear his gentle words in her ears, calming her. She wanted to feel his hands upon her body as he coaxed her eager response. She wanted to taste his lips while his warm mouth probed her own. She wanted to climb into his lap while he held her in his powerful embrace. "Wolf," she called softly. "Wolf, please come." But she knew Wolf would not be coming this time. Her mind began to shut down and succumb to her terror. Casey finally lay under the man, unmoving. She waited for her brutal end to befall her. Tyr was certain the woman had not fainted, just surrendered to her overwhelming fear of him. He released her arms and looked down at her. Her face was soaking wet with her tears, tears that still flowed steadily. Her eyes remained 229
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closed. Her jaw quivered. She whimpered for Wolf once more. Her arms now rose before her, protecting her face as she tried to cower back into the dirt and leaves. Tyr was certain she waited for the beating he had threatened her with at the start. "No, please don't," she cried, her small hands and body shaking. Tyr remained unmoving, except for the large hand he used to grip her chin, shaking it, hoping to jar her from her images of horror. He would be unable to question her if she submitted herself to oblivion. Not many remained strong in the throes of horror. Her lashes fluttered. She opened her eyes. They settled onto Tyr with conviction. "Wolf will come," she whimpered up at him. His large body pressed more of his weight onto her slight form, making her groan at the discomfort. "No, he won't." "He will kill you if you kill me," she challenged, her words fearful. Tyr remained poised above her, unconcerned. It would just be a matter of time. "I doubt it." "He promised to protect me. Wolf keeps his promises," she threatened again, her words gaining in strength as he had yet to cause her any harm. "Wolf is dead," Tyr said. "Oh, no," Casey cried. A sudden look of rage enveloped her features and, to Tyr's surprise, she began her attack once more. She pummeled his chest with small hands that he stopped easily. With one hand 230
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he again pulled her wrists above her head, stilling her assault. She once more flailed beneath him until spent. Casey sobbed for Wolf. She begged for him to save her. "He drowned on a yacht coming for you. It's your fault he's dead," Tyr yelled at her, outraged. Confused, Casey stared up at him. "No, we were on the island together. He spared my life. He saved me, he watched over me. We were rescued. He brought me here to protect me. He cares for me. I love him. He went to stop David; he promised he would stop David. He said he would always keep me safe," Casey cried out. Tyr once more pinned her against the ground, rendering her immobile. "You lie!" he spat. One of his hands gripped her throat, though he exerted no pressure. "Wolf!" Casey screamed. "Help me, Wolf, please!" "Damn you, don't lie to me!" Tyr yelled into her face, now squeezing her throat more tightly. "Wolf, you promised!" Casey screamed. "Wolf, I love you. You promised...you promised...you promised," Casey cried out over and over until her voice grew hoarse and her breathing too labored to do anything more than gasp for air. Her exhaustion so overwhelmed her she was even unable to lift her hands to stop an assault. They now lay limply off to her sides. Tyr climbed off her, shaking, his breathing almost as labored as hers, his eyes moist. He released her. He looked at the distraught woman before him. She was held in the throes of abject terror and loss. Her grief was all too real. She was not lying to him. She was crying out for the man she needed 231
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in her last moments as he had heard others do, gripped in their insurmountable fear. Carefully, he pulled her into his arms and held her to himself, his mind working at a frantic pace. "Listen to me, shhh, listen to me, honey," he soothed in a comforting voice, wanting to calm her. Casey quieted, reminded of another. The deep voice seemed so familiar. Her agonized mind sought the voice, pleading for comforting words it had given in the past. She reached for the man, eyes closed, and he held her firmly pressed against his chest. "Wolf," she whimpered. "Where did Wolf go?" Tyr asked. He stroked her back in a comforting gesture. "To David. He went to stop David," she sobbed. "Did Wolf bring you here?" he asked. "Yes. He promised to keep me safe." "Wolf is alive?" Tyr asked. "You killed him," Casey cried. She pushed at him, but he held fast, understanding her reasoning. She was unable to dislodge him; he would not allow it. He gripped her firmly, but not unkindly. "No, I did not kill him." "Now you lie," Casey cried. "No, I don't lie. Wolf is my brother," Tyr stated. "Your brother?" Casey questioned. Her deep confusion was apparent. "No, I would be safe with Wolf's brother. Wolf's brother would not hurt me. Wolf cares for me. His brother 232
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would not drown me or frighten me; he would keep me safe. Wolf had a sister, he mentioned no brother." Tyr pulled her closer, his own body trembling. She must mean a great deal to Wolf if he had mentioned Rhea. Wolf had not spoken of her in years, not even to him. "I am Wolf's brother. We have not seen each other in a long time. Wolf stays alone. I have not heard from him in years, but I keep close tabs on him." "Please don't hurt me, Wolf would not like it," Casey whimpered up at him. Most certainly he would not. Her deep brown eyes were settled onto his. "I won't hurt you. Don't be afraid, honey. Wolf will come for you soon, I'm certain." He stroked a gentle thumb down her wet cheek. "I want to go back to Lando, please. I'm so frightened of you," Casey begged. Nodding softly, Tyr picked her up while she clung to him; her face hid against the side of his neck. She pleaded with him not to hurt her, not to kill her, begging him not to drown her, but Tyr only held her closer to his chest, whispering comforting words until she quieted. Tyr placed Casey back in the car and leaned against it, calming his erratic heartbeat. He had thought his brother was dead because of this woman. He had almost killed her. He shuddered. Wolf would have hated him forever if he had killed a helpless innocent. Especially an innocent he was fond of. Wolf was the only family he had left. Unlike Wolf, Tyr wanted family. He climbed into the car and tucked Casey's head onto his lap, pulling her close. He had been so overcome 233
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with grief and anger when he had heard about the loss of his brother, he had gone on a one man rampage. He had drained every resource he had. His contacts had confirmed Casey's existence—she was of no importance to them, just another target—but had refrained from disclosing Wolf's. Of course they wouldn't; they were his valued contacts as well. No one would be foolish enough to give away Wolf's location, or name him, and they must have figured him safe once he had left her alone, thinking she was someone else's mark and delivered to her destination. She was once again free game. When Rhea had died, he had been only six. All he had left in the world had been Wolf. His mother had died within the year from despair. His father had only thought to track down the man who had killed her, making it his sole purpose in life. He had all but abandoned Wolf and Tyr to satisfy his need for revenge. Though Wolf had closed off everyone emotionally, he still had taken care of him. When Wolf had been convinced Tyr could take care of himself, he left to seek out his profession, wanting to follow in his father's footsteps. Not long after, Tyr had followed in Wolf's footsteps. It had been the best way for him to keep close tabs on his older brother. An older brother whom he had felt certain did not care whether he lived or died, his pain still so great after all these years over the loss of his beloved sister. "Wolf," Casey whimpered. "It's all right, honey, it's time we found him," Tyr soothed. Long past time I found him, he thought. 234
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Tyr turned the car on and backed up. He knew Wolf would show soon at Lando's as the girl had mentioned. He felt certain she was important to him. If he did not show he would take the girl somewhere and allow Wolf to find him. Hopefully he was already there. He would like to see him again; he needed to see him again. [Back to Table of Contents]
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Chapter Nineteen **** Lando watched the car approach. Only just having returned, he had hidden Christy and Logan in a small underground room he had designed specifically in case of emergencies. Not only was there a direct escape route from it, there were stockpiles of canned food and bottled water, along with an arsenal of weaponry at his disposal. He had designed it to be completely soundproof and fireproof. Even if his home were to burn to the ground, his safe room would remain unscathed and undetectable. Christy had been hysterical with her fear. When she had seen Lando had returned, she had thrown herself against him, crying out what had transpired. Logan had worn himself out and slumbered fitfully within his mother's arms, his little face still wet with his tears, his breath coming in loud hiccups. Lando had scooped up wife and child and raced them to his safe room, where he had commanded her to stay and await his return. It was apparent just how close Christy and Casey had become when Christy did not beg Lando to remain, but implored him to find her quickly. She was in grave danger. Christy felt certain the man was going to kill her. Lando had planned on trailing the car, knowing the roads better than most. He had been over every one of the woods' trails and every inch of the grounds repeatedly, getting to 236
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know his surroundings in case he would need a quick escape for himself and his family. The car stopped and a large man emerged. Lando held his weapon poised. When no word had come from Wolf he had returned home, sensing danger. He had been right. To Lando's great surprise, Casey stumbled from the car, sobbing hysterically, and raced into his waiting arms, throwing herself at him. "Lando," Casey whimpered up to him, holding him against herself with relief. Her body pressed as closely to him as she was able. "Are you injured?" Lando asked with concern. He locked one powerful arm around her, holding her to him. He took in her pale, tear-streaked face. Her body shook with violent tremors. She was covered in dirt and her shirt was ripped. Scratches adorned her body. "I was so frightened," she admitted. She buried her face against his chest. "I'm still so frightened. Don't leave me." Tyr moved towards them both, his sidearm still in its holster, his hands held wide. "Who the hell are you?" Lando snarled, weapon still poised, his jaw clenched, as he tried to maintain his overwhelming fury. "Tyr." "What the bloody hell do you think you're doing?" Lando yelled to him, enraged. He knew this was the man who had stolen Casey. His description fit Christy's perfectly. Yet Lando was at a loss as to why he would return, especially with Casey still alive. 237
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"I'm looking for Wolf," Tyr replied. "Look somewhere else." Tyr was gazing upon the large man before him, unconcerned. He had come seeking his brother's killer. Having found his brother's lover instead, he was not about to release the woman that easily. She was his link. Seeing her terror, he had only thought to bring her to this man to settle her. He would not let her go. Though the man before him had changed his name, though 'Lando' was larger and had a reputation, Tyr remained undaunted. The woman had cried for Wolf, wanting him, needing him. Tyr knew Wolf would come. "I am not leaving until I speak with Wolf," Tyr said. "I will not allow the woman to leave my sight." His impassive gaze bore into Lando. Lando heard the threat. "Go inside," Lando commanded Casey. "Hide." Casey only gripped him harder to her; hanging onto him with the strength a harried drowning victim would possess while clinging to a life raft. For a brief moment Lando removed his eyes from the man before him to glance quickly down into her face. What he must have seen in her devastated expression shook him. Tyr knew he'd have to keep alert to Lando's every move. Casey had been listening to their exchange, her heart hammering. She was unable to release Lando. She had been too frightened. She was in an emotional upheaval. Tyr had been going to kill her, she was certain, yet he had spared her upon finding out Wolf was not dead. 238
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What if the man was not his brother? What if the man only sought Wolf's whereabouts and had only pretended he was going to kill her to have her release the information he sought? Had she now led him to Wolf? Was he using her? Casey cried at the thought. Wolf had been right. She could never disclose who he was. It was not just for her safety, but for his as well. She might right now be aiding in his demise when all he had thought to do was save her from David. Had she killed the man she loved? She would not be able to live with the guilt. Her heart broke at the reality. She was being selfish at wanting Wolf to stay with her. She would never again be placed into a position where she could hurt him. She loved him too much. "Casey, inside now," Lando commanded harshly. "No! He cannot have Wolf. I should have stayed silent; I should have let him kill me. I never should have brought him back." Casey spun around, facing Tyr. "Is that what you planned? You counted on me being so terrified I would tell you Wolf would come so you could kill him? I won't let you have him. I will die first!" she raged. She would have thrown herself at Tyr, but Lando now held her tightly. "I can see that," Tyr said. He still stood unmoving, with his arms splayed in a nonthreatening gesture. Casey's pain and terror overwhelmed her. She was madly in love with Wolf; she could not allow any harm to come to him because of her. Tyr ventured closer, although Lando's gun remained drawn. "All I want is Wolf," Tyr explained. 239
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Casey whimpered, now certain she had been right. She had led him straight to Wolf, as he no doubt had planned all along. She looked up at Lando. What was she to do? They all turned to see a car race down the road towards them and slide to a wild stop. Wolf was out and running before the dust could settle. "No, Wolf, run!" Casey screamed, terrified. She jerked herself from Lando's grasp, positioning herself between Tyr and Wolf. But Wolf did not slow until Casey was in his arms. She heard the pounding of his heartbeat as he held her to himself, his apparent relief overwhelming as he crushed her to his chest, lifting her off her feet. "Run, Wolf, please," Casey whimpered up at him, certain Tyr was going to kill him. "No, Casey, I won't run. Are you hurt?" Wolf asked, setting her down, cupping her face. "I was so frightened. He scared Christy and Logan so badly. He did something to Sam. He threw me in his car and took me away. I thought David had sent him after me, but he wants you, he says it's you he needs to see," Casey sobbed, pulling him close, all the while begging Lando to keep him safe from harm. "It's all right now, Casey, I've stopped David," Wolf said. "No one will ever hurt you again." Then settling his ferocious look onto Tyr, he snapped in outrage, "What the hell did you do to her?" "I was told you were killed because of her," Tyr said in his defense, seeing Wolf's enraged, scowling, dark look. 240
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"Wolf," Casey wept, "I'm so sorry. You were right, it's my fault he came back here. I cried for you. I begged for you to come. I thought I was going to die and I wanted you to somehow know...I said I loved you, I said I needed you. I won't ever be used against you again, I swear. Please don't hate me. Oh please, don't ever hate me, Wolf." Casey clutched at him, knowing she would never again be able to hear his comforting words. His promise had been fulfilled, he was free of her. He had kept his word to keep her safe; she would keep her word to herself keeping him safe. She would let him go. Casey released him; she offered him an agonized look and walked, head bowed, into the chalet. She did not hide; as Lando had commanded, yet lowered herself down to sit beside Sam, who was groggily trying to stand. She pulled the wolf close and offered him the comforting words she herself needed to hear. Her tears dried. She had shed too many. She knew Lando would allow no harm to come to Wolf. She also knew Wolf would still allow no harm to come to her. "What the hell do you think you're doing, scaring my family and her like that?" Lando raged, advancing on Tyr now that Casey was gone. Tyr faced him without concern. "It's all right, Lando, Tyr is my brother," Wolf confessed, stepping between the two. Lando stood with his mouth agape. Wolf knew he'd surprised him; Lando had known of Tyr and his reputation, but couldn't have known they were brothers. Reluctantly, Lando holstered his weapon. 241
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"An explanation had better be quickly forthcoming," Lando demanded with great annoyance. Wolf walked towards Tyr. He noted the blood on his forehead. "I see you and Casey were intimately acquainted," Wolf said. "She nailed me with a rock," Tyr said. Wolf was angry. He knew Casey only struck out in terror. "You frightened her," he accused. "Yes, I did," Tyr admitted. He looked at Wolf so longingly and contritely his brother relented, and they clasped one another tightly. "Why did you come?" Wolf asked. "When I had been told of your death..." Tyr began. "Why did you think I was dead?" Wolf questioned. "I keep tabs on you. I heard your boat went down. I found other survivors. A red-haired woman said she felt certain she had seen Casey swimming from the yacht, but because of her, you had been locked up and left to die. That you went down without being given a chance to save yourself. The woman had cried that even though you accosted the woman, no one should ever be left to die like that, all alone, without any chance for survival. "I tracked David down. He had told me why you were sent. He told me about Abby. I had to find out, Wolf. David said she murdered his daughter. Right away I knew why you went after her. After one glance at the innocent eight-year-old girl in her father's arms I was enraged; I could only imagine what you had been feeling. I couldn't stand knowing you had died because of someone who slaughtered helpless children; it 242
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would be like losing Rhea all over again as well as you. I would be all alone because of her," Tyr explained. "What did you do to her?" Wolf asked. "I didn't hurt her physically, Wolf, I swear. But there was a lake where I took her. David had explained her fear... I wanted answers; I wanted to make her tell the truth. She knew what I intended," Tyr said. "Oh God," Wolf said, shuddering. She must have been terrified out of her mind; it was Casey's worst nightmare. Wolf turned and raced into the chalet. When Wolf entered, he could see Casey curled on the floor with Sam's head in her lap. She was humming softly to the animal, stroking his head. "Casey?" he questioned. Casey looked up at him. Wolf looked at her, relieved when she gazed on him with recognition. Her mind was not gone from fear. "I love you, Wolf," Casey admitted; her words were broken by the deep emotion she was feeling. "I love you so much I need to go away from you. I won't be used against you to help another find you. You are right, we're not so different. We live, because you allowed me to; we laugh, because you helped me to; we die, because I am dying inside right now. Will you hold me, please?" Wolf removed Sam's head from her lap and pulled her close. He clung to her. The last one who had said she loved him had been Rhea, right before she died. Before the man had come and stolen her life. Rhea had gone away forever 243
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after. Now Casey wanted to go away. He couldn't let her go. He loved her. "Don't go away, Casey," Wolf begged. "I told, Wolf, when you said not to. My fault." She wept, holding him, sobbing into his shoulder. "No, Casey, my fault. I promised. Tyr will never hurt you. He is my brother. I haven't seen him in years. I was aware he questioned my whereabouts regularly. I should have been there for him too, but I wasn't. Please, sweetheart, give me a chance. I have to stop letting down the people I love," Wolf told her, agonized. "What are you saying?" Casey asked, gripping him closer still. "I'm saying I love you. I'm saying I want to try. I want to be with you, I need to be with you. You know who and what I am. Do you love me enough to try anyway?" Casey considered what he was saying. He would not give up his profession, he couldn't. He needed to stop people like the one who murdered his sister. Could she stand it? Casey loved him. Right or wrong, who was she to judge? She needed him too. With gratitude she realized he loved her, he had said so. This time there were no angles, nothing else to turn his head. He didn't need her money. It was her he wanted, only her. "I need you, Wolf," she whispered. "I need you, too, Casey," Wolf said. Wolf captured her mouth next to his. His kiss, though gentle, branded them together. 244
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Lando and Tyr had been watching the two holding one another from the doorway. They had heard the exchange. Tyr was gratified. He had thought his brother's heart had been shattered permanently. On that terrible day so long ago, Wolf had returned different, as though he had died but his body still lived. When Rhea died she took part of Wolf with her. He stopped laughing, he stopped caring, and he stopped living, in a sense. Tyr owed this woman a great deal, Wolf could feel again. Tyr could see how he was looking at her. He hoped she would forgive him so that he could become part of their lives. He turned to look at Lando, his eyes moist from emotion. Lando's huge fist suddenly smashed into Tyr's face, felling him like a stone. Tyr sank to the ground without a sound. Casey looked up, astonished as did Wolf. "He scared the crap out of Christy, Casey and my son. What did you expect, roses?" Lando said gruffly. He stalked off to retrieve his wife and child. Casey looked at Wolf, watching for his reaction. Wolf just shrugged. "Saves me from doing it," he replied. He once again cuddled Casey closer. [Back to Table of Contents]
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Chapter Twenty **** Casey stood saying a tearful goodbye to Christy and Logan. She held them tightly, weeping as openly as Christy was. Logan seemed to know something was happening and he had to be disengaged from Casey's hair. Sam's head pressed against her leg and huge solemn eyes looked up at her woefully. "Please visit," Christy implored her. "As often as Wolf allows me to," Casey promised. Casey then threw herself into Lando's waiting arms. She felt she would miss him the most. This huge bear of a man who had helped her emotionally as well as physically. "Thank you, Lando. Thank you so much," she whispered. Lando held her clasped to him. Casey understood she was the first woman in his life who had never wanted or expected anything from him, not help, not love, not money, nothing. All she sought had been friendship. Lando had been right, men did not do feelings well. "Take care, sweetheart. If you need me—" he began gruffly. "I already did and you were there," Casey told him fondly, snuffling. Lando kissed her forehead, then just gazed down at her. Casey gazed back just as earnestly, imprinting his image in 246
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her mind. Though happy they were friends, Wolf was once again fidgeting with jealousy, to his own great annoyance. Seeing the look that crossed over Wolf's face, Lando chuckled at him. He released Casey and gripped Wolf's hand in a firm embrace. He leaned in and whispered, "Relax, buddy, the uncomfortable feeling lessens as your insecurity dissolves." Wolf turned bright red. Tyr stood off to the side, sporting a black eye. Christy still watched him warily from behind Lando. When Tyr had awoken, he had been surprised to see Casey perched beside him while he lay on a couch. She held a cold cloth up to his sore, swelling eye and dabbed at it carefully. Tyr watched her, knowing she was struggling with her fear. He had frightened her terribly, even more so than Christy. Poor little Christy could hardly even look at him. Tyr was amazed Casey would even sit this close to him. Her hands were trembling and Wolf hovered close by. Tyr lay quietly, letting her make her own decision. It was impossible for him to disguise the overwhelming hope that radiated from his forlorn eyes, desperately seeking her acceptance. Casey seemed to sum him up critically. To his surprise and elation, she had suddenly held out a shaky hand to him. "My name is Casey and I'm in love with your big brother." Gratefully, Tyr gripped her hand, and holding it gently replied, "I'm Tyr, Wolf's very sorry younger brother." Casey had accepted his apology, much to Wolf's relief. He didn't want Casey curled in a corner, terrified, every time Tyr came to visit. His brother would not have been welcome. That 247
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thought had saddened Wolf. He knew how anxiously his brother wanted to become part of his life once more. "We need to go, Casey," Wolf said. Though Casey had accepted his brother, Lando had not. Christy had sobbed throughout the night; disturbing, haunting memories from her past had once more resurfaced about angry men without mercy. Lando remained angry at the distress Tyr had caused his family and Casey. They had graciously permitted him to spend the night. When morning had come, Christy still battled her overwhelming fear of Tyr. Bruising on her upper arms where Tyr had held her was prominent. She limped from kicking so hard at his solid shins. Christy had been too injured in the past by men not to be fearful. She did not possess Casey's inner strength. Wolf had taken Christy aside and told her how sorry he was she had been frightened and injured. Christy had held him tight and told him to come and visit with Casey soon, without Tyr. "I will miss you," Casey said tearfully to the trio. Wolf led her to the car and settled her into the passenger side. Tyr would be following them to the airport in his own vehicle. Casey waved to them as long as they remained in her sight. She then curled up as closely to Wolf as she was able and sobbed. "We'll visit them, Casey. I promise. I think it's time we got you that speedy divorce," Wolf soothed. "Oh, no more planes," Casey whined.
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Wolf just chuckled. "Listen, sweetheart, you have your identity back. Only one small plane, then first class, I swear," Wolf promised. Casey sat up, swiping at red-rimmed eyes, she sniffed. "No more Roll?" "No more Roll." "Wolf, does Roll really...?" "Never mind, sweetheart. Some things you are best not knowing, for your own safety and peace of mind." Casey shuddered. Wolf placed a gentle hand on her knee. "Casey, we will need to talk a lot about this. Sometimes I will need to go away, but Tyr will stay with you. Your life will change. You will need to be watched and kept safe from harm. Are you afraid?" Wolf asked. "Of what, being killed by an exploding car?" Casey replied. "I won't fail you," Wolf said. "I won't ask what you can't answer. But it may take me awhile to learn which questions are taboo. But, Wolf, I want children. I need that in my life. Can you accept that?" Wolf wondered about that. Keeping Casey safe alone would take a great deal of effort, but to involve a child... Wolf thought about his own childhood before Rhea was murdered. He had loved his family and their life together. He had always known there was something special about his circumstances. Wolf and his siblings had always been closely guarded; his father was extremely protective. The pond he had been at that fateful day had been considered safe; they had been to it numerous times over the years without incident. It had been close to home, right in their own backyard, really. Rhea had 249
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not even been killed by an assassin, but some deranged convict who had escaped from prison. Seeking to hide his identity, he had thought to silence the two children who had spied him. Wolf had been happy in his first years; they had all been happy. Perhaps with Tyr's help and added protection he could once more obtain the family he had lost so tragically. Wolf remembered other 'uncles' and even 'aunts' who had stayed with his mother when his father needed to be away for any length of time. He had learned at a young age to obey his elders without hesitation. Being precocious, he understood his life depended on his obedience. His father had stressed that to him in the gentlest of ways. Wolf had taken it upon himself and had made certain Rhea had listened to him. She had been so naive, so young and unaware of dangers. He watched out for her, feeling it his duty to keep her and his baby brother safe from harm. One of Wolf's greatest fears was that Rhea had not run, that she had wanted to protect him. The disturbing thought caused him a deep agony. He would have died for her. He wondered if she had died for him. "Wolf?" Casey said softly. Wolf had been lost in thought. He could see the deep worry etched around her wary eyes; she was waiting for his answer. "Let's just say I'm not necessarily opposed to a child," Wolf said. Casey smiled at him. "I realize all of this is coming at you quickly. While you adjust I will too. Wolf?" 250
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"Yes?" Wolf could see the hesitance on her face and he waited while she collected her thoughts. "After I say this I will not ask again or interfere. But I want you to promise me something. I want you to promise me whenever you go to...'work', you will make absolutely certain of the facts. I was so frightened of you. If you had killed me you would have killed an innocent. I think you would grieve, no matter what you claim. I think because of your sister you would have let it eat you up inside, knowing the terror you caused someone who had never committed a crime." Wolf sat thoughtfully for a moment. He decided she was right. He would think about it first. That alone might keep him from being beamed over the head again by another distraught and desperate innocent. "I swear, Casey, I will know every one of the facts from now on. I will not let anger or revenge rule me ever again." "After my divorce, where will we go?" "I have a safe home I will take you to. I want you to close up all of your accounts. I need you to sell everything and cut any ties you have. Can you do that for me?" Wolf asked, watching her closely. "Yes. I will do anything for you." "I will have to change your name, Casey. I'm going to completely erase your previous existence. I will make it appear as though you dropped off the face of the earth. I know I threatened David, yet I won't take a chance with your life. He could change his mind. He might also be finding someone who will help him disappear so that he can send 251
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someone after you and remain undetected. Don't be afraid, you will be safe. You will always exist to me." Casey shuddered, her head bowed. "I understand why you wanted to kill David. You think David will always be hanging over our heads. But I can't in good conscience be responsible for someone's demise, even David's. Thank you for not ending his life. Thank you for understanding how important it was to me." Wolf nodded, glad she appreciated the sacrifice he had made just for her. She was so terribly naive, she didn't understand the overwhelming danger of allowing a heartless, calculating man such as David to walk away unpunished. Wolf was aware he would need to be wary of the man for the rest of their lives. David lived in a delusional world; his fury rested upon Casey and her existence. Hopefully Wolf's threats would suffice to keep the man at bay. This opened up another topic he needed to discuss immediately. "You will also always need to listen to me. This is very important, Casey, and not up for debate. It is not by any means a way of controlling you. If we're in the middle of a quiet conversation, or dinner, or in a heated debate, and I command you to run and hide, you will run and hide without question. You will obey without hesitation. You will not emerge until I come for you, as you noticed Lando did with Christy. I will have places in my home where you can go that will be safe. Your life may depend on your obedience." Wolf was not purposely trying to frighten her; he wanted her to stay aware. In order for him to keep them both safe he 252
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needed her to decide right then and there if she was willing to listen. "Do you still want to be with me?" Wolf asked her, clasping her hand. Casey looked at him. "I love you, Wolf. I want and need you. I will accept my lifestyle. Really it's not so different than being the daughter of a diplomat, if you think about it. There were always men protecting my mother and me when we were with my dad. There were always certain threats surrounding us. I guess after they died and I was no longer exposed to that type of lifestyle I just got used to taking care of myself." "Will you let me take care of you now? Will you be able to accept Tyr wanting to protect you? I have a feeling he is going to be around a lot. For some reason he finds you fascinating." "Well, why wouldn't he?" Casey replied cheekily, tossing her long locks and tipping him a wink. "As long as he doesn't find you too fascinating," Wolf said, eyes narrowing. "You're jealous again," Casey said, and chuckled. "I'm working on it," Wolf grumbled, now annoyed. Damn! "I think Tyr finds me fascinating because you love me. I think he is tired of being all alone and he is happy to have you back," Casey said. "I did my best for him. But I couldn't stop the pain and guilt of Rhea's death until I turned myself off. I shut down my emotions. Christy took the first small chunk out of the wall I 253
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had built, I think. But you went at it with a sledgehammer. Why do you love me?" "Because you're wonderful. You not only spared my life, you saved it. I never thought I would trust again, but I trust you. I never thought I would love again, but I love you. My mind screams for you, my body demands your touch. I close my eyes and I see your face. I never thought I would recover from the loss of Abby. Her death still pains me, but because of you I can remember the fun she and I had, not her screams of agony." Wolf looked at her. To a certain extent he felt she offered him the same relief with Rhea. The secluded airstrip came into view. Wolf slowed to a stop by the small white plane, its propeller in motion awaiting takeoff. Casey stepped out of the car. Her look glanced past Wolf to their pilot, and she stood back abruptly, shuddering with distaste. To her disbelief, Roll stood looking at her with a leering grin, leaning against the tail of the plane. Casey's accusing eyes spun back to Wolf, glaring. Wolf looked back at her, just as surprised. "Sweetheart, I swear—" he began, arms splayed. "Someone find me a rock," Casey snarled, her hands curled to claws. Tyr sidled up beside them, smiling, looking well pleased. "Well, he's right on time, as always." "This was your idea?" Wolf asked. "You know how closed-mouthed Roll is," Tyr said. His look faltered, becoming distressed at the look Casey was shooting at him. 254
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"Yeah, and you know how rock-friendly Casey is," Wolf shot back. "Well, look at you, honey. This time you're standing and everything," Roll drawled at Casey, checking over her body. "Just fly the damned plane!" Casey snapped. She muscled past the men and, scowling, she boarded the plane. "Well, you heard the lady," Wolf said, chuckling. He followed Casey aboard. Casey sat on her seat, pressed against the plane, her cheek at the window. Wolf sat closely beside her, smiling engagingly, his thumb stroking the back of her hand until she relented. With her lips twisted into wry acceptance, she settled herself into his arms and even offered a lopsided grin to Tyr, who was still watching her, clearly wondering at his mistake. "Sure is nice to see you recovered from your drug mishap," Roll mentioned to Casey. Casey groaned. It was going to be a long flight. "Just fly the damned plane," Wolf warned, seeing Casey's look. "Yeah, sure, you know me. No questions. Real closedmouthed. I understand you wanting her though, she being so cute and all. I would have paid a healthy buck. Faking an overdose with those boys is damned risky though. Some of them are real hard asses, " Roll muttered. "Just fly the damned plane, Roll!" all three howled in unison. Roll flew the damned plane. [Back to Table of Contents] 255
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Epilogue **** Casey sang softly to her new baby daughter while she held her in her arms, rocking her soothingly. She smiled down into the sleeping infant's tiny, beautiful, perfect face. Tufts of silky black hair, so like her father's, curled around petite ears. She lifted the child higher and breathed in her sweet scent, kissing her forehead. Both Wolf and she had been thrilled with the arrival of their new daughter. Casey had wept when Wolf had held the infant to his chest and, with moist eyes, he promised to protect her forever. He had cuddled the babe higher into his arms, cradling her head, and had gazed at Casey with such adoration and pride. She had smiled up at him, loving him deeper still. Her eyes then dripped steady tears as Wolf thanked her for giving him his life back, for loving him enough to trust him with her own life and with the precious life of their baby. Casey could see he had been overwhelmed with emotion. Casey placed the baby down into a bassinet and covered her over with blankets. The backs of her fingers stroked her downy soft hair. She left the room to retrieve a cold glass of milk. She chuckled, remembering Wolf's insistence she drink more fluids while breast feeding. Casey reflected back, remembering the day she had informed Wolf she was carrying his child. She had approached 256
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him hesitantly, and once curled in his lap, her head pressed to his chest, she had disclosed she carried his baby. She had waited, somewhat fearful of his response, concerned how he would react, understanding his worries over protecting another life, and his anxiety about his sister. Wolf had pulled her snugly to his chest. He had cuddled her and, soundlessly, he had wept. Casey had been so distressed by his response; it had been beyond unsettling to witness such a proud man weep, yet Wolf was quick to soothe her, telling her he was indeed happy. When Wolf had discovered her pregnancy, he gathered maternal reading material and studied up on what the experts insisted was best for the mother and her baby. Their home was conformed to the essence of tranquility. Tyr moved in with them immediately as added protection, and both Wolf and Tyr watched over her like overprotective wolves. They made certain she ate well, was well rested, and was never left unattended for a single moment during her pregnancy. Wolf insisted she was even too vulnerable to be hitting anyone in the head if the need for self-preservation presented itself. They made certain the need did not present itself. Wolf made a point of talking to her belly daily, insisting the baby needed to familiarize itself with his voice. He had stroked her tummy, his lips grazing her flesh, whispering loving, endearing words to their unborn child. Taking his lead from his big brother, Tyr happily did the same. At times Casey just stood, shaking her head at the both of them while rolling her eyes. She had thought one giant puppy trailing her 257
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and Lando asking numerous questions was annoying. Now she had two to deal with! Casey chuckled, remembering her labor. She had never seen two more powerful, in control men flounder around in such a way. They stumbled over each other when she had emerged from the kitchen, claiming it was time. Finally, when Casey had cried out in pain, clutching her middle and crying for his help, Wolf seemed to settle with an inward calm. He picked her up, clasping her to his chest, and strode for the car, Tyr racing after with her luggage. Once she was settled, Wolf drove carefully, yet quickly, to the hospital. The nurses scrambled to make her comfortable when Wolf bellowed out orders in a formidable command, eyes glaring dangerously, Tyr's foreboding scowl and intimidating presence backing him up. It had not taken long for everyone, including the doctor, to rush to do Wolf's bidding. Casey had been made comfortable in no time, holding Wolf's hand for reassurance. Fearing for Casey's safety, Wolf had snarled menacingly at the nurse who had produced pain medication, howling at her so loudly she had fled, terrified for her life. Instead, he had aided her with her breathing, encouraging her to focus on his face, his loving voice, until the babe's head made an appearance. Wolf had moved lower, drawn to assist his child. He held Casey below the knee and gripped an ankle, thrusting up to aid with her pushing. He had stepped in like a pro when the time had come and helped deliver his child. Casey's foot had been settled securely to his chest. His gentle hands slid lower, 258
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aiding in capturing the baby as her wet body slid out, watching as the two sides were tied off, and cutting the umbilical cord. Tyr had remained near Casey's head to offer her encouraging words, taking up her hand and stroking her forehead, refusing to be shooed from the delivery room. Proud father and proud uncle had taken turns watching them both day and night, until they were safely released back into their capable care and sent home. Strolling back into the room where her baby lay, still smiling, Casey suddenly let her glass of milk drop to the floor, where it shattered against the tiles. To her surprised horror, a disheveled David stood, holding the infant in his arms. "David!" Casey cried, terrified of his intent. David looked at her. His face was pale, his eyes bloodshot, dark black circles hung under tired, agonized eyes. The babe still slept quietly, cuddled to his chest. "Please, David, don't hurt her, she's innocent," Casey wept. "So was Abby," David replied without emotion. "I did not kill Abby. I loved Abby. I loved you once. Please don't take my child from me." David looked back down at the infant and held her closer still. He ran a thumb over her warm, sweet cheek and smiled when the babe's mouth moved in a sucking motion. "I remember when Abby was this small. I used to take off my shirt and hold her while she lay in just her diaper. We would share our warmth. She would always fall asleep on my chest. I promised to keep her safe. She should have been safe." 259
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"I'm so sorry. Please, David," Casey whimpered, moving closer to the pair, approaching him cautiously. "When her mother died she was all I had. She was everything to me," David said, weeping. Tears began rolling from his eyes, landing on the pink blanket that held the child. "It's not fair you have a new baby while mine is cold in her grave." "David, Abby gave so much to us both. She was so loved and loved life. How do you think she would have felt if you harm a baby in her name? Abby was not the type of person who would cause harm. Taking another's life won't bring her back." "What's her name?" David asked. He gazed down into the infant's serene expression, captivated by her innocence. "Rhea Abby." "No!" David cried out, his head snapping up, looking at her with aching, sorrow-filled eyes. "Don't you do that to me." "I loved Abby. She loved me too, you know she did. You know how much we meant to one another. Please, David, no more pain. Rhea is helpless. I beg you. I would give my life if it would bring Abby back, but that would be my choice. If you harm my baby you will be a cold-blooded killer. That is what you accused me of being. That is what you will become. That is the legacy Abby will be given. If Abby's face haunts you it will be nothing compared to taking the life of a newborn baby with your own hands." Casey's terrified tears streamed down her face. They flowed almost as quickly as David's. Casey came to rest right before him. She looked up into his agonized expression and, 260
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with shaky hands, she reached for her child. Pausing briefly, he reluctantly handed the infant back, after hugging her tiny body to his heaving chest. "If you need to take a life, spare my child and take mine," Casey whimpered. At one time she had loved him so much. No," David sobbed, looking into her eyes. His body shook. "I'm so sorry, David," Casey whispered, crying at the misery on his face. "Abby was such a wonderful, beautiful child. She meant so much to me; I loved her. I wished so many times she was born of me. I'm so lucky she was mine too, for a little while." Casey backed away from him and looked off to the side. She could see the rage on Wolf's face as he stood unmoving; holding his weapon high, aimed at David's head. She took note of an equally enraged Tyr, who blocked the other exit, brandishing his own side arm. Casey determined they must have come running when the glass shattered. Neither was ever very far. Casey went to Wolf and, with small pleading words, she rested against his chest. Dismayed, she noted Wolf was shaking. His fury was overpowering him. David had slowly sunk to the ground, sobbing, his hands covering his face. He wept for the loss of his beloved child. "Please, Wolf," Casey begged, seeing his intent. She understood his anger. "Take Rhea into the other room." Though his voice was quiet, Casey heard the slightest tremble. "Wolf, he has suffered enough." 261
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"He was going to kill my child," Wolf said with deadly menace. Casey shook with the intensity of Wolf's outrage. She had never seen him look more lethal. "He is agonized over the loss of an innocent. Despair does things to your mind like nothing ever could. What did Rhea's death do to you, and for how long? He realizes now he is no killer. Maybe in time he will heal." "You expect me to allow him to just walk away?" Wolf howled. "I expect you to show compassion. You are a father now. Feel his pain for a moment, Wolf, just a single moment. Feel his confusion and agony. Hurt beyond livable pain. If his body was suffering the way he was mentally, he would already have died. Nature's cruel joke is to allow us to suffer emotionally much more than physically without succumbing. His mind was not right. Wolf, he will never come again," Casey implored. She held his gaze when he turned to her. Their baby daughter still slumbered, oblivious to what was occurring around her. Casey slowly handed the child over into his embrace, softly encouraging him to take her. Wolf pulled his daughter closer, cuddling her to himself. Wolf looked to the man huddled in a ball of despair, weeping while Tyr stood over him, his gun now holstered, his fists balled. The man still wept for his deceased child. "Drive him to the airport. Tell him never to come near us again and make it very clear," Wolf told his brother with narrowed eyes. 262
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Casey watched as David was hauled to his feet. She knew by his venomous look Tyr would more than get the message across. She felt bad for David, but would not deny nor protest Wolf this one small act of his protectiveness. Wolf had spared his life. David should feel grateful; she knew she did. She had done it for Abby. She could not hate the man who had been part of the child she had loved so dearly. Casey allowed Wolf to propel her into the other room and shut off sounds of David's frightened pleas as Tyr dragged him from the house. Wolf settled her on the couch, placing the baby in her arms, and when Rhea stirred, Casey bared her breast and encouraged the babe to suckle. She did so, hungrily. Casey felt the wonderful feeling of immense contentment overtake her body as it always did when Rhea nursed. She sighed with pleasure. Casey settled back, waiting, knowing Wolf would be drawn to them soon. Wolf had been pacing before Casey, agitated, furious with himself. David had breached their security. How had he even found them? Damn the man! Casey should have let Wolf kill him long ago! His fury raged inwardly at his obvious lapse. His hands balled into fists; he needed a release. His strides were erratic, his pace harried. His emotions had rampaged while he had held his weapon; it took every ounce of his nerve not to take the man's life while his daughter had lain vulnerable in his arms, while his wife was a hairsbreadth from David. Rhea's terror-stricken face had thundered like a freight train through his mind. He had failed his sister...and yet his baby still lived, Casey still lived. He was no longer a helpless 263
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child. Fate rested within his hands; he was not at the mercy of another, more powerful. He was now a powerful man. He was the one who controlled the life and death of another. David was once again lucky he had been compelled to offer his mercy. Wolf stopped his pacing. His own thoughts replayed in his mind. He was no longer a helpless child...he had been only a helpless child. The revelation floored him; the notion was astounding. The weight of guilt fell from his chest like a boulder of heavy stone. He had heard from his family, from Casey, there was nothing he could have done to save his sister, but for the first time the realization had come from his own deliberations. His mind wasn't being told he needed to accept the fact; the epiphany came from his heart. In that instant Rhea's horror-stricken face faded. It was replaced with her charming, cherubic laughter. Once more he could remember her endearing smile and the captivating way she tilted her head to the side when she looked up at him. He heard her last words of, 'I love you,' in his head, only this time the agonizing pain was gone. Hearing his daughter's soft, endearing noises of satisfaction, he slowly moved towards mother and child and concentrated on the scene before him. Her tiny sucking, swallowing noises sounded so sweet, almost like a hum. As always, Wolf was fascinated when Rhea fed. The image of something so wondrous and natural drew him like a magnet. Casey offered their child life through sustenance. Wolf's 264
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responsibility was to protect them both. A mission he took very seriously. Wolf settled himself on the couch beside them as closely as he could without fearing he was interfering. Casey encouraged him nearer, pulling on him, cuddling him, and expressing her enjoyment at his curious wonderment. "Thank you for protecting us. Thank you for keeping us safe and being there for us. You are a wonderful father and husband," Casey said. The baby was only tugging on her occasionally, having been satisfied. Rhea glanced up at her father with wide, dark eyes the image of his own, the image his sister Rhea's had been. Wolf stroked a gentle finger down one soft pudgy cheek and smiled at her tenderly. "I love you," Wolf said to the babe. It was an endearment he found himself to be saying many times a day. Wolf looked at Casey, his eyes now soft. "I love you, too, Casey." "I love you, Wolf. I will always love you forever," she replied blissfully. Wolf captured her mouth to his own. He was very happy she'd had commitment written all over her. He had also been right in thinking forever wouldn't be so bad. [Back to Table of Contents]
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About the author My name is Connie Lynn Scholey, I live at home with my amazing husband, my children and numerous pets. This is my second novel in my assassin series and I am currently working on my fourth. I love to connect with readers and can be reached at
[email protected] [Back to Table of Contents]
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Spicy, sensual love stories which leave a reader breathless, intense plots, alpha males, strong heroines and sizzling dialogue—find it all at Whispers! www.whispershome.com For your convenience, all of Whispers' books are available at Fictionwise, Mobipocket, All Romance e-Books, and Amazon Kindle. Be sure to join our newsletter for up-to-date news from your favorite authors, contests, giveaways, upcoming releases, and more! To join, send a blank e-mail to:
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