MILES' REDEMPTION by Marisa Chenery

MILES' REDEMPTION by Marisa Chenery

Roxie's Protectors-Book Seven

Miles knew using Dirk’s online dating service wouldn’t be the best way to find his mate and is proven right when his date stands him up. But his bad luck turns to good when his would-be mate walks through the restaurant’s doors.

Kareena has been on a dating dry streak since her fiancé of seven years dumped her the year before. She wants the hottie who sits close to her and her friends’ table to be the one to end it, but she doesn’t have enough nerve to go up and talk to him. After meeting Miles, her life ends up going in a direction she never thought would exist. She soon learns she's the only thing that can secure Miles’ redemption.

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Excerpt

Her heart beat faster as she neared his table. You can do this, she told herself as a pep talk. As his gaze latched on to her and didn’t waver, Kareena lost her nerve. She quickly changed direction and walked as fast as she could in her drunken state to the women’s washroom.

Once she was closed inside, she groaned as she silently called herself all kinds of vile names. While she was there, she used the toilet. Kareena was sure her friends were all shaking their heads at her. She hadn’t always been like this. Before her ex, she’d been more outgoing with the opposite sex, but since her breakup, she’d found she couldn’t get back into her old groove. Even though it’d been a year, Kareena hadn’t been out on a single date. With her busy work schedule, and trying to get over being dumped by her fiancé, she hadn’t made a point of getting back into the dating world. And being over thirty, she didn’t think that’d be an easy task, anyway.

She washed her hands and took some deep, calming breaths. She’d march back out and walk straight to the guy’s table. She’d introduce herself and then ask him to take her to his place and screw her brains out. No. Kareena wouldn’t say that. Maybe he’d be more interested in sneaking her into the men’s room and taking her against the washroom stall door. She shook her head, which only made the room spin a bit. Where the hell had that idea come from? The men’s room? Ah, gross. She had to be drunker than she’d thought. Or horny enough to do the hunk anywhere. It had been a year since she’d last done the horizontal mambo, after all.

Kareena left the washroom and headed once more in the direction of the table where, thank god, the hottie still sat. His gaze latched on to her, and it felt as if he physically touched her breasts when it lingered there. She forgot to breathe as her pussy grew wet, an ache building deep inside it.

In her inattention, she stumbled into a chair, which made a screech as the legs dragged across the hardwood floor. Embarrassed by her klutziness, Kareena lost her nerve again and made a beeline for the table where her friends sat. She couldn’t even look over at the hunk to see what his reaction was.

She slid onto the bench seat, grateful to see a full glass of wine on the table in her spot. Kareena picked it up and took a big sip. She looked at all her friends and found them giving her disappointed looks.

Kareena shrugged. “All right, I’m chicken shit and couldn’t do it.”

“You need to get out of the slump you’re in,” Alice said.

“I will. It just won’t be with him unless he comes over to talk to me.”

“If he doesn’t?”

“Then it wasn’t meant to be.”

There was still disapproval on her friends’ faces, but they didn’t say anything else. Kareena finished her wine, knowing full well she’d gone over her limit and would probably come to regret it in the morning. Right now, she just felt way too good to care.

Once they’d taken care of the bill, all four of them slipped off the seats, then headed for the restaurant’s entrance. Kareena was definitely not very steady on her feet, but she managed to keep in a straight line.

It didn’t remain that way when she reached the doors. She stepped back so Lacy could open them, and Kareena’s sense of balance went all out of whack. She would have fallen, but a set of strong arms wrapped around her waist from behind and pulled her against a hard, male body. She turned her head to look up at who held her and saw it was the hunk. Her mouth suddenly went dry, especially when the unmistakable ridge of his erection pressed into the small of her back. Arousal tore through her, making her knees even weaker.

He smiled. “I’ve got you.”

“Hi,” she said, the one word coming out a bit slurred.

“Let me help you outside.”

Kareena didn’t say a word as he shifted her to his side and tucked her under his arm. He was tall—at least six-foot-three. She liked tall men since she was no munchkin. The heat from his body seemed to envelope her as she put her arm around his waist to anchor herself. The scent of his cologne hit her nose, and she dragged in a lungful, liking the smell.

Outside, her friends gave her encouraging smiles and said their goodbyes, leaving Kareena alone with the hottie. She was sure she’d get phone calls from all of them tomorrow.

She looked at the hunk and found him intently watching her. Her pussy clenching with need, Kareena said the first thing that came to her mind. “I’m Kareena. Why don’t you take me to your place?” Of course all her words kind of slurred together, but the smile he flashed her said he didn’t seem to mind.

“I’m Miles,” he said in his deep voice. “Are you sure you’re in any condition for that?”

“I’ll admit I’m a bit drunk, but I’m good.”

“How about I drive you home instead?”

“Okay. You can spend the night with me.”

He chuckled and walked her over to the parking lot and a fancy black Audi. With a push of a button, he had the car unlocked. Once he had the passenger door open, he helped her onto the leather seat and waited until she’d buckled her seatbelt before he closed her inside. In a matter of seconds, he was behind the wheel and starting the engine.

Kareena settled deeper into the seat as Miles backed up and then drove out of the parking lot. Her eyes grew heavy as he merged with the traffic. Unable to keep them open any longer, she fell into a deep sleep.

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WHEN LUST RULES by Virginia Cavanaugh

WHEN LUST RULES by Virginia Cavanaugh

Lusty dreams of a tall muscular man with long dark hair have filled Julie’s mind for the last few months, leaving her wanting alone in her bed. It would be one thing if he was only a figment of her imagination, but he was flesh and blood, and had even asked for her phone number. But had he called? Hell no.

So when he shows up out of the blue at her job, she really wants to push him away. But there’s something primal and erotic about this man that calls to her.

Luken is reluctant to get involved with a human female, but for some reason he can’t get her out of his head. He has enough on his plate with running his new pack, but the little blonde seductress presents a temptation he can’t resist.

But when Julie’s past catches up to her, Luken is prepared to offer his protection, along with his bite, making her one of his own.

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An Excerpt From: WHEN LUST RULES

Copyright © VIRGINIA CAVANAUGH, 2013

All Rights Reserved, Ellora’s Cave Publishing, Inc.

Chapter One

“Hey, waitress!”

Julie Drake ground her teeth as she tried to block the annoying man calling her. The crowd seemed extra rowdy tonight at Harry’s Bar, and Replacement Waitress Number Three didn’t seem to provide much help. Why in the hell did Tyra have to quit?

A deep breath entered her lungs as she loaded her tray with the drinks from the bar. Little skeleton straws poked out from some of them. Only another hour of this mess until last call. A pang of guilt speared her chest. She knew better than to hold a grudge against Tyra for quitting. People moved on. Some to greater things and others… Well, she just had to look for the silver lining.

“Hey, Jules? You all right?”

Julie looked at the burly bartender, Mark Hinley, who stood in front of a large Happy Halloween sign. Concern flashed in his green eyes as he wiped his meaty fists on a white towel. “Yeah. I’m good. Just hoping the next hour passes quick.”

He gave a curt nod and she picked up her tray, turning from the bar and heading through the pool of bodies. Mark could be a real sweetheart and had even asked her out once. Julie wished she could have said yes, but truth be told there wasn’t any spark when she looked at him. Maybe it would’ve been different if she hadn’t been haunted by fantasy-filled dreams of a man with long dark hair and olive skin. Luken.

All she had was a first a name—no way to even look him up in the telephone book. As if she would. She didn’t want to come across as a desperate woman who couldn’t wait for him to call. But damn, it had been four months since he’d come into the bar and asked for her number. She’d been sure he’d call her. Now with Tyra gone, she didn’t have a way to ask what happened. Hell, she was even curious about what happened between Tyra and the hottie who had been sitting with Luken. But no one had heard from her since she’d quit.

That had been a strange night. The bar had been hopping and Tyra had come in with a glum look on her face, but as the night had progressed she’d started to smile. And not just the I-need-to-make-tips-so-smiles-make-more-than-frowns kind of smile. It had been genuine. But then a really good-looking blond guy had come up to her and it had looked as if her whole world came crumbling down. She’d raced from the bar with him and had never come back.

Julie gasped, seeing the disaster coming, but unable to avoid it. Glass crashed and shattered as various glasses filled with alcohol sloshed and spilled. First one tray hit the floor and then a second. Laughter and applause filled the room at a deafening roar as Julie tried to count to ten, booze dripping from her face and soaking into her clothes. Replacement Number Three apologized profusely as she pulled sopping wet napkins from her own pocket, offering to help clean up the mess. Neither of them had managed to avoid being splattered.

Julie wasn’t mad at her directly. The girl couldn’t help that she was a klutz, but the rude patrons who seemed to get a kick out of her soaked state had pushed her limits of control.

Without a word she shoved past the people who had gathered around to witness her humiliation, and she bolted toward the back door. She just needed a minute—a breath of fresh air. A year’s time had done nothing in making this new lifestyle any easier. Country music blared in the background as she forced yet another person aside who sought a chuckle at her expense. Drunks could be such assholes. Her hands met the door and she plowed through it, seeking refuge.

Cool air danced over her wet skin and she shivered as her arms came up to hug her middle. The metal door swung shut behind her with a thud. Her gaze panned the back lot, not looking for anything particular as she tried to rein in her emotions. The trees swayed lightly in the breeze, dumping more of their golden and red leaves onto the ground.

“The money and ease of my old life isn’t worth it,” she whispered into the night as she squeezed her eyes shut, willing back the tears that made them burn. She knew this would be a better life deep down, but some nights were harder than others in believing that fact. Being the wife of a drug lord had many perks, but it was the other end of the spectrum that turned her stomach.

Her ex-husband Ivan Volkov sat in prison where he belonged. There would be no more deaths in the living room at three in the morning. No more beatings. No more bodies jerking and gasping as they died from too many drugs. And for that peace she could suffer through waiting on drunks. She just wanted to move on.

“Looks like you’re having a bad night.”

Julie whipped her head to the side at the sound of the deep rumbling voice, searching for his frame in the darkened area near the trash Dumpster. She knew that voice. Had she imagined it? Booted feet thumped the pavement a second before he stepped into view. Luken.

His long hair swayed against his broad shoulders. A few dark strands gripped the material of his jacket, freezing in place as the rest of the silken length continued its gentle movement. Kissable lips quirked up in a half smile, pulling the skin of his face just slightly tighter over his high cheek bones. The yellow glow of the security light masked the golden-olive skin she knew covered his body. Native American blood ran thick through his veins. All around, he was such a contrast in looks when compared to Ivan. Whereas Ivan was light and fair, Luken was dark and sensual. Luken stood tall and lean, his muscles toned, but not overly large. He had a very athletic build, and even though she couldn’t see through the V-neck T-shirt he wore, she figured his abs would look like a washboard. Her heart rate quickened as she stared across the space separating them. Desire began to bloom inside her, mixed with excitement. Then irritation took its place. He hadn’t bothered to call her and now he wanted to show up when she looked like a mop? “As if it matters.”

A full smile spread across his mouth as he continued to approach. “Of course it matters.”

She huffed a breath of air and turned, reaching for the handle of the back door. “I’ve got to get back inside.” It was just too much. A suck-ass cherry on her suck-ass night of a sundae. God, why did he have to show up now?

A warm hand clasped her arm before she could grip the door handle. She looked down. Strong fingers encircled her wrist. Warmth radiated into her skin from the contact and her heart rate increased. She turned and looked him in the eye.

“Don’t go yet.”

She sighed, wishing she could ignore the tingling awareness his touch brought. It radiated up her arm and settled in her chest. She recognized the fusion of hope and anticipation. Such a dangerous mix. “I’m working.”

“I meant to call you.”

She gave a halfhearted laugh. “Meant to? But didn’t. I really need to get back inside.”

“I’ve thought about you a lot.”

“Why are you saying these things now? I mean, you could’ve just called.” Damn if she didn’t hate how wounded her words sounded to her own ears. He would probably think her pathetic. She sure as hell thought of herself that way right now.

His lips scrunched into a slight grimace. “Things have been busy.”

“Well, now’s not a good time for me.” She shivered as another gust of air whirled past. According to the weather report a cold front was supposed to be moving in. Her gaze followed his to the front of her soaked T-shirt. Her nipples drew into pebbled peaks, now visible beneath the material. She pulled from his grasp and crossed her arms in front of her chest, glad the ugly yellow lighting wouldn’t show the blush rising in her cheeks.

Luken’s gaze snapped back to her face as he shrugged out of his jacket and swung it around her shoulders. He gripped the lapel and pulled it closed around her. His body heat seeped into her skin as the intoxicating scent of him entered her nose. Cologne like none she’d ever smelled before. Warm summer nights mixed with a hint of spice. Her lower tummy tingled, spreading to that spot between her legs that had her clenching her thighs together.

“I’m sorry I didn’t call.”

She met his gaze. Dark-brown eyes stared down at her. It had been awhile since she’d felt the quickening of desire that now began a slow roll through her. “Why didn’t you?”

“It’s complicated.”

She pulled back, trying to remove the jacket, but he wouldn’t release his hold on the front. “Where I come from, the translation is you have a wife.” Too good to be true as usual.

He gave a tug on the jacket, pulling her closer to his chest. “No. I don’t have a wife. Things have just been…complicated.”

Complicated was definitely something she didn’t need to add to her life right now, even if it came in such a yummy package. “Listen. Why don’t you come find me again when things aren’t so complicated?”

“And what if I want to just keep you where you are right now, complications and all?”

His whispered words fanned hot, sweet breath over her face. She felt herself leaning toward him even though the warning signals in her brain were firing off like mad. “I don’t know if that’s a good idea.”

His head leaned in until his lips hovered above her own. She took in a staggering breath as she wondered if he would kiss her.

“Right now it seems like an excellent idea. I want to taste you.”

She licked her lips, ready for him to close the gap. She had a feeling this would be one hell of a kiss.

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BLIND ACCEPTANCE by Missy Martine

BLIND ACCEPTANCE by Missy Martine

The Wind River Pack

Laynee Conners has been in a school for the blind since her mother died when she was five. Now, her father wants her to come home so he can get his hands on the inheritance her grandfather left her.

David and Eric Rivers are brothers, adopted into the Wind River Pack. They’re called home to Wyoming when their alpha wants to do a head count of all his pack members. Children are disappearing from other packs, and he’s concerned about his family.

The brothers find Laynee in the woods, drugged and left to die. Both their beasts claim the fragile young woman as their mate.

Can a bear and a wolf share a mate?

Time’s running out. They have to convince Laynee she’s theirs before her father succeeds in his plans.

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~Excerpt~

Groaning, Laynee slowly opened her eyes and shivered. “Father?” She felt groggy, her head almost spinning. Her tongue felt thick, and a bad taste coated her mouth. She could smell an earthy, pine scent mixed with the odor of damp, rotting wood. The air was crisp and bitingly cold. She reached out her hand and trailed her fingers over the rough bark of a tree. A cold wind ruffled through her hair.

“Ugh,” she groaned when she felt the moisture seeping into her jeans. She could feel the prickle of briars against her palms as she pushed to a sitting position, the spongy ground making her draw back in horror. Why can’t I think clearly? Everything seems so fuzzy. “Where the hell am I, Father?” she screamed.

She froze and tried to calm her breathing, listening carefully for the sound of voices. The only sound was the branches creaking and the groaning of the trees in the wind. She wrapped her arms around her waist and tried to stop from shaking. “What am I gonna do now?”

Trying to control her fear, she struggled to her feet and reached out with her hand to steady herself against a tree. Dizziness nearly overwhelmed her as she dropped to her knees. She turned her face to the wind and strained to hear a familiar sound. After a minute, she tried to stand and froze. The rhythmic sound of footsteps beating against the path caused her breath to catch. “Who’s there?” she whispered.

“I can hear something panting.” Using her legs, she pushed back toward the tree when something plowed through the brush. When she heard an excited yip, she turned to the direction it came from and smiled. “Doggy, here boy.” Barely able to keep her eyes open, she held out her hand. Moments later, something cold and wet pressed against her palm.

She took a shaky breath and laughed. “You’re a big fellow, aren’t you?” Laynee continued to pet him, laughing when he licked her cheek and neck, partially leaning on his firm back. The heat from his body drew her. She scooted closer and hugged him tight.

“You’re so warm, boy. Do you think I could warm myself for just a minute?” It was almost like he understood, cuddling closer, giving her the warmth from his body. “Fellow, we need to get out of here. You’ve got to have a master somewhere.” Her hands rubbed over his neck. “You don’t have a damn collar. Are you a stray?” She sighed when he licked her cheek. “Do you think you could lead us out of here, big guy? I can’t make it on my own. You’ll have to let me lean on you. I’m not feeling too well.”

* * * *

Eric sniffed Laynee’s neck, whined, and then growled softly. She’s my mate! There was something off about her scent, but there was no doubt, this woman was his mate. He spotted a drink can on the ground and leaned down to sniff it, growling when he caught the unnatural scent. She was drugged, just like the man said. When she stiffened, he stopped growling and licked her cheek, whining when he felt her relax against him.

Turning, he stared at her face and froze. Her blank gaze was directed his way, but it was obvious she didn’t see him. My beautiful mate is blind! What kind of a man would leave his blind daughter to fend for herself?

Another unusual scent caught Eric’s attention. He raised his nose and breathed in deeply. With a low growl, he pulled away from Laynee and moved to the other side of the tree.

“Wait,” Laynee cried, and tried to grab for him, nearly falling flat on her face.

He hurried back so she could touch him, but not before he saw the raw meat lying on the ground. It’s a miracle some animal didn’t find her before I did. I’ve got to get her moving toward the highway so David can find us. They were too far from the road for David to pick up her scent unless he shifted. I’d hate to see how she’d react to hearing a bear lumbering through the woods.

Eric nudged her thigh and watched in horror as she tumbled over onto her side. Damn, I didn’t mean to knock you down.

Laynee groaned and pulled herself up. “I’m sorry, boy. I can’t seem to wake up. I’m so dizzy.”

Eric growled softly. I know why you’re dizzy. All those drugs are still in your system. It’s gonna be hard getting you back to the car if I don’t shift.

Determined, he nudged her thigh again and gripped her shirt between his teeth and pulled. She got the message and pulled herself up.

“Okay, boy. I’m coming. Keep your shirt on.” She got shakily to her feet, leaned heavily against Eric, and threaded her fingers in his ruff, holding on tight. Eric leaned down, closed his jaw around the soda can, and then prodded her forward, moving her around rocks and limbs as carefully as he could. Slowly they made their way toward the highway.

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HELL HATH NO FURY by Anne Kane

HELL HATH NO FURY by Anne Kane

Hellhound Detective Agency

If there was one thing guaranteed to piss off Fury, it was a man who didn't know how to treat a woman. One that actually hurt them on purpose, well, they'd better hope she managed to rein in her inner Hellhound when she came calling.

Women had been disappearing for months now, the kind of women that no one really cared about. Later, they'd turn up dead, and they didn't get that way easy. Then the killer made a mistake. The woman he'd been torturing escaped before he finished her off, and she called in the Hellhounds.

Now, the suspect is hiding behind a web of tech and Fury needs the help of a Tech Wizard to help to run him to ground. Axe finally gets the chance to prove that a werewolf-Hellhound cross is just what Fury needs for more than just work.

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Hellhound Detective Agency: Hell Hath No Fury
Anne Kane
All rights reserved.
Copyright ©2011 Anne Kane

This e-book file contains sexually explicit scenes and adult language which some may find offensive and which is not appropriate for a young audience. Changeling Press E-Books are for sale to adults, only, as defined by the laws of the country in which you made your purchase. Please store your files wisely, where they cannot be accessed by under-aged readers.

Yurik stumbled to a halt in front of the store, his lungs burning as he sucked in huge gulps of air. In the distance, the eerie baying of the Hellhound sent shivers of horror down his spine. She was getting closer, and nothing he'd done had shaken her from his trail. He was running out options.

Hellhounds didn't just decide to chase someone, they had to be pointed at you, and he knew who was responsible for his current predicament. Kali. She'd been so young and so deliciously innocent when he'd acquired her from her makeshift shelter in the alley. That high-pitched note of terror in her voice every night when he'd unlocked her cage to play with her had thrilled him during the endless days of her captivity. And then she'd escaped.

He couldn't believe that after all he'd done to her, she still had enough nerve to get up and run when he'd forgotten to lock her cage. If he ever got his hands on that bitch again, she'd wish she'd never been born. Now there was a Hellhound on his trail, and he had just one card left to play.

He pushed opened the door and stepped inside.

* * *
Fury pointed her nose to the sky, letting out a howl of sheer frustration. She'd been so close she could taste the perverted scumbag's fear in the very air she breathed, and now he was gone. He'd resorted to Tech Magic to cover his tracks, and that was the one thing guaranteed to drive her crazy. Only inferiors resorted to Tech.

An unfortunate rat dashed across the road in front of her, and pent-up aggression sent her pouncing on it. Her jaws snapping shut around its neck, she tore the rodent to bloody shreds before it even had time to register the danger.

Blood dripping from her muzzle, she sat back on her haunches and considered her options. This guy needed taken down quickly, before he zeroed in on his next victim. Scum like this never quit so long as they were alive. She flicked her tongue out to catch a red drop of blood.

Much as it pained her to admit it, she needed a Tech Wizard. She was proud of being a full-blooded Hellhound, able to track any prey using her own raw talent honed by Agency training. When a perp resorted to lowly Tech to avoid her, it meant she had to call in one of the Tech Wizards that the Hellhound Detective Agency kept on staff for just such occasions.

She got to her feet and started loping back toward the Agency. Might as well get it over with. A small flutter of anticipation warmed her belly, although she refused to acknowledge it. Axe was the best Tech Wizard at the Agency, so of course she'd do whatever it took to get him to cooperate.

* * *
Axe made an effort to mask his amusement, studying the cluttered top of his desk to avoid looking at her. No point in pissing off the Hellhound before he found out exactly what she was up to. He'd been trying unsuccessfully to get her to agree to go out with him since he'd first set eyes on her two years ago. She'd frozen him in his tracks with one look from those amazing eyes of hers, making no attempt to hide her distain for creatures with less than full Hellhound blood. So why was she suddenly in his office, engaging in idle chitchat?

"That new club over on Seventh is really drawing in the crowds." Fury leaned against the wall, ignoring the other chair. Axe knew she did it deliberately so that her head was positioned higher than his. Dominance games were as much a part of Hellhound DNA as breathing.

Axe tipped his leather office chair back, resting his feet on the paper-covered surface of his desk in a move calculated to show his disregard for the game. He might not be full Hellhound, but werewolves were playing these games long before the gates of Hell were opened. "Looks like a decent place. I haven't gotten around to checking it out yet."

Fury straightened up and sauntered over to the window, turning her back toward him. "We could go grab a beer after work. If you want."

He couldn't help it. His eyebrows shot skyward with the speed of light. "I want, but I'm a tad confused here. I thought you considered me to be slightly more obnoxious than the common cockroach."

She turned to face him, a sexy smile curving the corner of her mouth. "I wouldn't go that far. And I've reconsidered." Her gaze swept him from head to toe with the speed of a tornado. "You have certain... admirable qualities."

Axe grinned. She was good. He had to give her that. "I think I smell a conniving Hellhound. You want something, and you think I'll be dumb enough to give it to you just because you smile and wag your tail in my face?"

"Am I wrong?" She slipped her tongue out to trace a wet circle around her lips.

"Maybe. Maybe not. Depends what you want." Axe hauled himself to his feet and held out his hand in a mock courtly gesture. "Care to enlighten me over a glass of beer at the aforementioned establishment?"

Fury's eyes sparkled with mischief as she hooked her arm through his. "Delighted to. You're not quite the pushover I imagined."

"Thanks. I think." He slanted a quizzical look at her. "You honestly thought a werewolf-Hellhound cross could be a pushover?"

She shrugged. "The werewolf genes dilute the Hellhound blood."

Axe laughed. She had no clue how utterly ruthless and bloodthirsty a werewolf could be. Hellhounds were basically big scary dogs. Sure, they had supernatural talents, but they were still just dogs.
Werewolves might appear to be more civilized, but only to those who didn't know them. She'd learn. And he was just the werewolf to teach her.
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THE WITCH AND THE WEREWOLF by April Fifer and Danielle Hylton-Outland

THE WITCH AND THE WEREWOLF by April Fifer and Danielle Hylton-Outland

Washington DC’s journalist, Rye Yates is well-dressed, gorgeous and cursed. After an unusual encounter with a witch, his love for a woman could mean her death sentence.

When Rye meets Clair, her effervescent personality instantly grabs his heart.

What will Rye and Clair do when they uncover a hundred-year-old secret that was never meant to be revealed? The ending is unthinkable, and the betrayal and secrets leave no one unscathed.

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~Excerpt~
           
            “I pity you. You have just damned yourself. You will never keep real love until you give me what I want. A child is needed, and you will give him to me… or else,” she added shrewdly.
            “I will give you twenty-six days to decide, after that, there will be no counter offer.” She warned.
            “I wouldn’t in twenty six thousand years.” Rye countered with a determination of his own.
            The lights flashed and Dusk’s hair blew in all directions. She closed her eyes, concentrating. Then she spoke in a wicked voice that shrilled with each word.

“Love, you will never have and I curse you of any woman’s hand.
With every emotion of love will break harsh white teeth and a wretched oil coat.
The emotion of love will be no longer, in its place now a thirst you will not bear.
Days come soon when you will feast on love’s bones and hair.
Run you will say but the full moon will blind your human sight,
Death to her with just one bite.”

            Then silence. Dusk’s hair settled as the last light flicked once more before becoming solid again.
            “You have twenty-six days to give me what I want. Or on each full moon you will become one with the night – a wolf at best. I have cursed you of love. You will kill which you hold so dear, as the wolf inside you will take over and feed on the very one you love. I have given you an eternity of loneliness.”
            Dusk walked towards the door and turned to face Rye one last time. “You have twenty-six days before the first full moon. Use your time wisely.” And Rye shutter as the door slammed behind her.

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THE FIRE INSIDE by Virginia Cavanaugh

THE FIRE INSIDE by Virginia Cavanaugh

Werewolves be damned. Tyra Smith chose to leave behind her nature to protect her heart after the wrenching loss of her pack. She wants nothing to do with another wolf. Never again wants to feel the deep pain of loss. At least until a sexy-as-sin wolf named Konrad shows up, saving her from the roaming paws of another.

The sparks of lust ignite a desire that burns with hellish intensity, making Tyra crave something she’d vowed to forsake. The ability to resist wanes. Is it a true mate bond that pulls her to Konrad or just the heat cycle she’s entering? Only time can tell.

When a real threat from another pack presents itself, Tyra must move into Konrad’s den for her physical protection. But as things heat up between them, who will protect her heart?

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An Excerpt From: THE FIRE INSIDE
Copyright © VIRGINIA CAVANAUGH, 2012
All Rights Reserved, Ellora's Cave Publishing, Inc.

Chapter One

Tyra Smith flipped the switch on the back wall, extinguishing the lights in the parking lot of Harry’s Bar. She stepped outside and the warm humid air surrounded her, causing a fine sheen of moisture to cling to her skin. Missouri summer nights weren’t for everyone, but she’d grown accustomed to them over the years.

She closed the door behind her and quickly used her keys to lock the deadbolt. With a relieved sigh, she turned and started toward her car. The night had been rough and filled with way too many bad drunks for her taste. Usually it didn’t bother her, but tonight she seemed to be more on edge; little things that she normally would’ve ignored had caused her to grind her teeth and snap at the unruly patrons. But the shift had ended, and all she could think about now was the hot bath that waited at home. With purpose, she rounded the corner of the bar and headed for the east side parking lot. The darkness surrounding her posed no problem in finding her way. Thanks to genetics, she could see everything just fine, including the strange man sniffing around her car.

Her pace slowed as she took in his scent. Musk mixed with various scents from the earth along with the unmistakable smell of wolf. The muscles in her neck and shoulders stiffened as her irritation level kicked up a notch. She knew what he was selling, and she damn sure wasn’t buying. She’d made the choice long ago to stay away from other wolves and packs. Nightmares from the invasion of her father’s pack still plagued her at times. The attack had left her an orphan at a young age, forcing her to spend most of her childhood in wolf form in order to survive. No. She didn’t want anything to do with that life that had only brought her loss and pain. She much preferred being a lone wolf. Her stride lengthened as she marched toward him, her black high-heeled boots tapping a staccato rhythm against the asphalt.

She watched as he turned toward her, an eerie smile lifting the corners of his thin lips. His blond hair spilled over his shoulders. Well-muscled arms were crossed in front of his T-shirt-clad chest. His ice-blue gaze raked over her, leaving her chilled despite the muggy night air. Tall, light and creepy. The vibe he gave off had her inner alarms chiming. The sooner she could get rid of him, the better. “Go away.”

“Bad night? I bet I could make it better.”

She snorted. “My money’s on you making it worse. Oh look, I won.” She pushed past him and inserted her key into the door lock of her POS car. She’d learned to speak smartass well after dealing with drunken humans for the last few years, and after a night like tonight, her temper had a hair trigger. Before she could retract her key, he touched her shoulder, which had her spinning back in his direction, ready to attack, her purse hitting the pavement with a thud.

He held his hands up and took a step back. “Relax. I wasn’t going to harm you.”

The fine hairs on the back of her neck rose, sending a tingling sensation down her spine. “I’ll rip your hand off if you touch me again.” He could keep his reassurances, because she could scent them for the lies they were. But she had no choice. She had to appear confident in her abilities to protect herself or this meeting could go really bad. She bared her teeth in his direction and he smiled back at her.

“Feisty. I like that in a female. It makes certain aspects of the relationship more…exciting.”

Bile rose in her throat. “Go the hell away. I don’t want anything to do with you.” Something told her this asshole was going to make her go wolf. Her pulse jumped, beating with hard thuds inside her head. She hated going wolf. After all those years in the wild, she only shifted at the full moon, and only then because she didn’t have a choice. She wasn’t even sure she’d be able to handle a shift. Why the hell did this asshole have to be here? This neighborhood was mostly inhabited and frequented by humans.

He smiled again. “My name’s Xabier.”

A low growl rumbled her chest. “I don’t give a shit what your name is. Go away.” Her nervousness increased as a chilly sensation coursed through her flesh.

“You’re not even going to give me a chance?”

“No.”

“How do you know I’m not your mate?”

She didn’t know much about how the whole mate thing worked. She’d been too young, but she knew her parents were mates. And the way they were around each other had been a beautiful thing. She didn’t feel anything remotely beautiful about the wolf in front of her. In fact, something seemed weirdly familiar about him, but her mind wouldn’t nail it down. “You’re not my mate.”

He took a step toward her. “You can’t be certain about that. You know, sometimes it takes a few rounds of being together before the mate bond snaps into place.”

No, she didn’t know that. Nor would she sleep with this creep to find out. “We’ll never know then.”
“Oh come on. I can scent you. You’re about to go into heat.” He sucked in a breath through his nose. “Your smell is intoxicating.”

“I am not! And even if I was, I wouldn’t sleep with you.” She kept her gaze on him, not trusting him for a second not to turn hostile. A feral growl came from him a fraction of a second before he pounced, snatching her arm with enough force to rip the sleeve of her shirt. She half shifted, claws erupting from her hand as she swiped at his face and pushed him back.

His hand came up, covering the slashes that oozed crimson on his cheek. “You little bitch. I guess I’m going to have to teach you some manners.”

Brushing aside the panic that rose inside, she crouched, ready to defend herself as he made a move to come at her again. But he stopped short as a deep rumbling growl came from behind her. The scent of another male wolf entered her nose. His scent different, more spice than musk. But there was something else. Something she couldn’t put a name to, but it smelled wonderful.

“I don’t believe the lady wants your dirty paws on her, Xabier,” the deep voice called out.

Xabier stood tall and defiant. “Mind your own business, Konrad. There isn’t any mark on her. This bitch doesn’t belong to you.”

“I’m not a bitch, asshole,” she ground out between clenched teeth.

“Whether or not she belongs to me isn’t in question. She told you to back off. And if you don’t, then you’ll be dealing with me,” Konrad said.

She wanted to turn and look at the newcomer, but at present she decided Xabier was the greater threat.

Xabier gave an evil laugh. “Is this where I’m supposed to run away scared?”

Booted feet thumped against the parking lot, the sound echoing loudly in the still air before coming to a stop beside her. Out of the corner of her eye she could see black jeans and black boots from her crouched position. A slight turn of her head and she would be able to look at him, but she didn’t dare take her eyes off Xabier.

“I know you think you’re protected because I’ve entered into negotiations with your alpha, but I assure you, I mean exactly what I say,” Konrad said.

Xabier cast a look of revulsion at her before turning his gaze back to the man who stood a few paces away from her. “There’s no need for us to fight. You can have the nasty bitch.”

A growl erupted from her throat as well as from the wolf beside her. Xabier locked his gaze on her once again and continued to stare at her as he walked backward toward the other side of the parking lot. His gaze felt like a cold caress that turned her stomach and had her swallowing to suppress her gag reflex. When he arrived at the edge, he turned and ran off into the night. A sigh escaped her lips before she rose to her full height and turned to look at her saving grace.

“Are you injured?”

Somehow she kept her jaw from dropping as she stared up at him. His dark hair was cut short, a slight wave to it. A lock had fallen across his forehead, making her want to reach up and push it back into place. Dark brows arched over amber-colored eyes that were surrounded by long, dark lashes. His bottom lip was slightly fuller than his top. She took in a breath to answer his question and that wonderful smell filled her nose again. “No. I…don’t think I’m hurt.”

She tore her gaze away from him to look down at her arm. “Damn it,” she mumbled as she surveyed the tattered remains of her green sleeve. “I really liked this shirt.” She had only bought it a week ago. Her jaw tightened as she ground her teeth. The budget she lived on wouldn’t allow her to replace it until next month. Her gaze went to the tree line where Xabier had disappeared. She wished she could mar the other side of his face.

“What’s your name?”

That deep voice rolled over her and she turned her head to stare at him. “Tyra.”

“Hmm. Tyra is a very nice name. I’m Konrad.”

“Konrad.” She watched as the corners of his lips tipped up. His smile didn’t hold the coldness Xabier’s had. Instead, it seemed to chase away the chill she’d felt earlier. “Thanks for helping me out. I don’t usually encounter many wolves in this area.”

“No, I don’t suppose you do. This area is mostly inhabited by humans. But we had a meeting not even a mile away from here, because it was neutral territory. Xabier left the meeting first. He must have scented you.”

“Oh.” Her gaze dropped to his chest. The black T-shirt he wore hugged his large pecs and biceps, ending at his lean waist. She found herself wondering what it would feel like to touch him—to push her hands under the fabric of his shirt and caress all that hardness. Desire coiled low in her belly. She heard his quick intake of breath. Her head snapped up as she heard the half growl, half moan he released. Her gaze locked with his, the amber of his eyes glowing with a rich intensity. That wondrous smell hung thick in the air around her. She wanted to bathe in it. Lust unlike anything she’d ever experienced gripped her. She stared at his mouth, wondering what his lips would feel like against her own.

He inhaled another breath and released it with a possessive rumbling voice. “Mate.”

The word washed over her like a bucket of ice water and had her blinking rapidly before taking a step back. “Oh, no. No. We aren’t starting this again.” She bent and picked up her purse from the ground where she’d dropped it earlier, trying hard to shake off the needy feeling he’d created in her. She sucked in a deep breath. Never in her life had she had such a lust-filled reaction to someone. He stepped toward her and she found herself staring at his pelvis. It wasn’t hard to miss the thick, hard ridge beneath the material of his pants. Her eyelids slammed shut as she rose quickly and turned, gripping the keys that still protruded from the door lock.

“Who’s your alpha?”

She ignored his question as she twisted the key and then pulled it out. Eyes open, she watched his reflection on the window. Sexy as hell was an understatement. She could feel his gaze move over her like a light caress, warming her body degree by degree. Her fingers curled under the door handle and pulled, opening the car door. A tan arm, dusted with dark hair, barred the entrance. She turned around and met his gaze, her frustration level rising. “Do you mind?”

“I need to speak to your alpha.”

“No. You don’t. You need to move your arm so I can leave.” The sooner she got away from him the better. His heated gaze roamed over her face and she found herself breathing shallowly.

“What have I done to anger you, mate?”

“That. That’s what you did. I’m not your mate.”

He leaned in close and ran his nose up her neck, inhaling a deep breath. “Yes, you are,” he whispered next to her ear.

Her eyelids lowered to half mast as her body trembled. The warm, rich texture of his voice did things to her insides. Her core pulsed as she noticed wetness gathering at her lower lips. No. She couldn’t let him get to her. She inched back, creating a small space between them. “Get out of my way.” This couldn’t be happening. She didn’t want this. She wanted a human life, damn it. Or at least as close as she could get to one.

“I know you feel it too. I can scent your desire the same as you can scent mine.”

“No, that’s not it.” Denial blasted through her.

He crossed his arms in front of his chest. “Then what do you think it is?”

“I’m fixing to go into heat.” Her cheeks burned. She couldn’t believe those words just came out of her mouth. At twenty-four she’d never been in heat before, and really didn’t have any clue if she was about to be or not. But at this point she would take whatever excuse said this feeling he created inside her would only be temporary.

He smiled, revealing straight white teeth, his canines slightly longer and pointier than normal human teeth. “I know.”

The fact that he seemed to think he knew more about her own body than she did irked her. “See. So you admit it. I’m just horny. So…yeah. Now I’ll be on my way.” She stepped past him and got into the car. Her hand closed around the handle on the door panel, but when she pulled on it, the door didn’t budge.

“Who’s your alpha?”

She ground her teeth, staring out the windshield at the rolling hills and trees. Stubborn wolf. “He’s unavailable.” Which wasn’t entirely untrue, considering her father was dead. But she wasn’t about to let this overbearing man know she was a lone wolf without protection. When he didn’t make a move to release her door or speak, she looked up at him. His eyes moved over her, as if he were studying her. “What?”

The muscles in his face relaxed and he released the door.

She pulled it shut, not taking any time to think about what had him changing his mind. It took only a second to have the key in the ignition and turned over. The engine roared to life. She backed out of her parking spot and moved the gear shift into drive. Before releasing the brake, she glanced out her window at Konrad. He stared back at her with a hungry look. The desire she’d felt earlier began to return. She tore her gaze from him, took her foot off the brake and hit the gas.

There couldn’t be any regrets. She’d chosen to live a normal life, and he didn’t fit into it.

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