Forget Me Not (#2, The Mystic Wolves) (3 page)

“Well, I would take you into my arms. Kind of like this.” He stopped long enough to hold me the way he wanted—one arm around my hips, keeping me locked against his own. The other was up by my shoulders, letting him bury his hand and fingers into my hair. This way he could anchor my head to his, holding me steady and at his mercy.

“Then what?” I whispered.

“I would lean in close—making sure every inch of you was against me.”

“Like now?” I moaned softly.

“Closer.” And with a gentle tug, he removed all space between us. The contact ignited sensations that pulsated, and I felt my head spin. I closed my eyes, trying to ground myself to the moment, not wanting to miss whatever he had left to share.

“Then I’d nestle my lips against your ear, maybe tug on the lobe a little with my teeth… definitely nipping softly at the tender skin there.”

I actually whimpered as he demonstrated, the small bites sending shoots of pleasure down into the soles of my feet. At this rate, if he kept it up, I’d be dragging him into my bedroom—forgetting any need for purity.

“Mason?” My voice was low and husky. I was completely under his spell—enthralled.

He paused, causing the anticipation level to skyrocket. He could’ve asked for anything at that moment, and I would’ve handed it to him on a platter.

He travelled lower, down to where my neck met my shoulder line, and swirled his tongue gently against my skin. I couldn’t stop the shivers that shot through my body. My legs gave way and not waiting, I moved my head so our mouths finally connected.

It was instant fire. It was his turn to groan as I waited for no invitation, and I parted his lips with my tongue. I wrapped my arms around his neck tightly, and gave myself completely over to him.

Kissing him was like nothing I’d ever experienced before. There was no hesitancy or holding back. We gave everything, laying our hearts and souls bare. Each time we connected was something deeper, forging a stronger bond.

Tangling my hand in his hair, I forgot the world. I forgot earlier events. There wasn’t anything but him. Reluctantly breaking the kiss, both of us breathing heavy, I peered into his face, enjoying the flushed look I found there. It was an incredible feeling knowing Mason reacted the same way.

“Wow.” I leaned back in, unable to resist one last brush against his mouth.

“Exactly.” He smiled, his finger moving to sweep a stray strand of hair away from my eyes. He returned my kiss with one of his own. “I was serious when I said I can’t wait. It’ll mean it’s official… I’ll be yours. Forever.”

“And I’ll be yours. We can finally start our lives together.”

Moving in for one last goodnight kiss, Mason reluctantly stepped back, my body feeling his absence immediately.

“Sleep well, sweetheart. Call me if you need me.”

I watched him walk down the hall, and then stop in front of his own door. With one final wave, I entered into my bedroom, undressing as I moved about. It had been quite a day, and it didn’t take long after my head hit the pillow before I was asleep.

Chapter Three

I stumbled into a busy kitchen, rubbing my eyes as I tried to wake up. Not paying much attention, I walked over to the refrigerator and started pulling out the ingredients for my breakfast—orange juice, strawberry yogurt, bacon, and eggs. It was my daily ritual, and I could’ve done it blindfolded.

The house was big enough to have some of the pack members live on the property if they wanted, and many took advantage of Mason’s offer. There was safety in numbers and a definite appeal in not having to hide who we were from the prying eyes of neighbors. I was used to hearing people move about as they started their day, but not the instant silence that followed my entrance.

Looking up from the counter where I stood, I immediately saw why. Amber was seated at one of the tables, surrounded by three others, deep in conversation. From the smiles and laughter erupting from the group, it wasn’t hard to realize she was well liked and busy catching up.

The rest of the room sat quietly, food forgotten as their gazes darted back and forth between Amber and I. I didn’t doubt the word had already spread through the pack, especially details over my loud reaction from last night, and they were waiting to see my response. I wouldn’t be surprised if they were wondering whether I’d try to rip out her throat while searching for a spoon for my breakfast.

Offering them a smile and quick nod, I signaled everything was okay. The tension in the room seemed to diminish as everyone went back to eating. During this, Amber had sat quietly, watching the room. Excusing herself from her group, she made her way over to me. I silently willed her to turn around because I wasn’t ready for my morning to be ruined by whatever she had to say.

“Did you sleep well?”

“I did, thank you. And you?” I spoke with a level voice, reminding myself the importance of being polite. I’d found a note on my pillow from Mason saying he was leaving to talk with the Council, and if things went the way we hoped, we’d only have to deal with Amber for a few more hours. I could do
anything
for that long.

The feeling she was up to something hadn’t disappeared over night. In fact, it had grown stronger. Every pair of eyes on us—watching—and I was adamant I wouldn’t show my concerns.

“I tossed and turned, but I expected that with everything that’s happened.” She reached for the bottle of orange juice, and began to pour a glass. Raising my eyebrows at her helping herself to my things, it was plain to see she was nervous, and I turned to get a second cup. “People have been asking questions, and I wasn’t sure what you wanted me to say.”

 “I can imagine. They know you have a history with Mason, so they’re wondering why you’re here. I’d tell them the truth—you had problems with your own pack, and came here seeking asylum.” Taking a sip of juice, I licked my lips before adding, “I’d leave off the part about thinking you’re Mason’s mate still. I’m sure you don’t need any more enemies.”

I saw the look of shock in her eyes that I would talk so bluntly, but I ignored it. Turning to the stove, I cracked two eggs into the frying pan and laid out some strips of bacon.

“We’re not sure how long you’ll be here, Amber, but I don’t want any more drama. My pack has gone through a lot, and we’re trying to heal from it. You’re staying as a guest, and—I won’t tolerate any game playing. If that’s what you’re doing, it’s better you leave now.” I caught her gaze and held it. It was a deliberate warning, and I didn’t blink until she looked away—the message received.

“I understand, and honestly, I really am sorry. I never would’ve acted that way had I known.” She reached to touch my hand in a reassuring gesture, but quickly snatched it back when I growled.

“Well, you know now. We can take it from there.” I returned my focus to the breakfast I was preparing, sliding the food onto the plate. She could apologize all she wanted, things hadn’t changed since last night.

I grabbed everything I needed and moved to sit at the table. I would’ve made it if it hadn’t been for Daniel blocking my path. Without so much as a hello, he stole a piece of meat and began shoving it into his mouth.

“Hey! Get your own.” I slapped his hand away, and he shot me a repentant look.

“Why, when I can pinch yours?” He grinned. Shaking my head, I offered him my plate, and grabbed my yogurt instead. No matter how tough I tried to be around Daniel, I also had a soft spot for him, and he used it to his advantage. Once he turned on the charm, it was hard to tell him no.

Forgetting his manners, he began using his fingers, not even waiting to take a seat. I watched as the yolk split, and the yellow center started dripping. It was messy, and I couldn’t pull my gaze away as he captured the fallen drops with his tongue.

“What?” he asked, seeming stunned to find me staring.

“You are disgusting. You know that, right?” Amber interrupted, and from the look of disdain on her face, she wasn’t impressed.

“No one’s asking you to stand there, princess.” There was no hiding the sarcasm in his voice. Being Mason’s second-in-command, and best friend, he would’ve been informed about Amber’s arrival and stay with the pack. His dislike of her was written all over his face, and I could’ve cut the animosity with a knife.

“Always the gentleman aren’t you, Daniel? Can’t we just leave it in the past?” I was surprised to see sadness cross Amber’s features, followed closely by disappointment.

“Let’s get this out in the open, shall we? I don’t like you—I never did. You’re manipulative and conniving. I’m not buying this act you’re playing right now, and I certainly don’t trust you. Keep out of my way. Got it?” Daniel spoke forcefully, everything about him growing cold and hardened as he glared at Amber.

She opened her mouth, taking a deep breath, as if she was ready to unleash a tirade. But as suddenly as it surfaced it disappeared and she turned on her heel, leaving the kitchen. Everyone’s gaze followed. Turning to Daniel, he shook his head and whispered, “Not here.”

We finished our food quickly and in silence. My mind kept a steady replay of what had just occurred—measuring it against what I knew of Amber and her history with those I loved. Mason had mentioned last night that something had kept him from going through with the arranged betrothal, but he hadn’t elaborated. Casting another glance toward Daniel, as he placed his dirty plate into the sink, I knew he
did
know, and I needed answers. I couldn’t protect my pack if I didn’t have all the details.

Following him from the room, he led me outside into the garden. The air was alive with the sounds of a new morning, and even though the sun wasn’t at its peak, its warmth felt good against my skin. I could almost taste the freshness of the earth and the greenness of the forest, and it beckoned my wolf to the surface. This was a perfect time for her to run—feel the gentle breeze on her fur as she scampered, the different scents of nature enticing her. I told her we’d get the chance soon and, content with the answer, she settled back down.

Daniel and I stood quietly, soaking up the peacefulness of the moment.

“Are you going to explain?” I asked.

“Promise me you won’t lower your guard around her, Darcy,” Daniel blurted out what was on his mind.

I instantly burst into laughter, and he broke into a boyish grin. Deciding to be the one to go first, I gestured for us to start walking, taking one of the paths that lead into the tree line.

“I don’t trust her. Something doesn’t seem right, and I’m hoping you can help answer some of the questions I have. I still feel like there’s missing pieces.”

“I’ll tell you what I know, but only once we’re away from the house. It’s not pretty, and Amber being here right before your mating ritual isn’t just coincidental. I don’t buy her claim for asylum for one moment, and hopefully the Council won’t either.”

He placed his hand on the small of my back, guiding me along the trail. Brushing past low hanging branches, we found a steady pace, the sound of our feet crunching on the dried foliage. Rain must have fallen some time during the night, because liquid sparkled on the different leaves and surfaces. Everything looked so beautiful.

Turning to check the distance, I stopped. We were far enough away, and the suspense was killing me. I didn’t like feeling I was in the dark about things—especially when they involved Mason. A threat to him was a threat to me.

“Okay, spill it.” Resuming our walk, I watched him from the corner of my eye.

“What exactly do you know about Amber? I know you’d never met her before, but have you ever heard people talk about her?”

“I honestly didn’t know she existed until last night. And from the way she made her entrance, she’s lucky she’s still breathing. She claims she wasn’t aware about me, and her father is behind it all, but I’m not buying it. Mason later explained they were meant to be mated, but something turned him against it.”

“Did he say what it was?” he asked.

I shook my head.

“I’m not going to soften this for you, but he was deeply in love with her. The sun rose and set with her, and there was nothing he wouldn’t do to make her happy. She had him wrapped around her finger, so it surprised a lot of pack members when he suddenly shunned her. There’s only a handful of people who know what really went down.”

I placed my hand on Daniel’s arm, gesturing for him to stop. “Tell me … all of it. Leave nothing out.”

Chapter Four

Looking, and finding, a place to sit we got comfortable on a small crop of rocks. He sat on a fallen log, his leg bent so he could rest an elbow on his knee. Bending over, he plucked a few small stones from the ground and, releasing a breath, sent them flying through the air.

“I’ve never seen such a power hungry family. As you know, werewolves are aggressive by nature, but for the most part, we don’t revel in unnecessary bloodshed or senseless violence. Their pack takes it further—there’s nothing and no one they’re not willing to destroy to get what they want.

“I was blinded by Amber as well at the beginning, but it didn’t take long before I saw the ugliness and ruthlessness she hides behind that façade of hers. Don’t ever doubt it, Darcy. She’ll rip your throat out without blinking if she thinks it’ll gain her more authority.”

“And she wanted … wants Mason.” There was no denying it. Even with the small amount of information, I knew he was her target.