Lawson shoved his phone back into his pocket and reached up, yanking his hair. Rage boiled beneath his skin, and his wolf growled in his head, urging a shift. Lawson did a mental check to see if the Ravin remained leashed.

The beast prowled just below the surface of his skin all the fucking time. Lawson’s gut roiled and threatened to vacate his breakfast as realization sunk in that he was one step from full-blown Ravin. Thank the Gods he was still in control of his thoughts and actions, he concluded as he resisted his wolf’s demand.

He glanced at Liv and instantly noted the horror etched across her face. “What?” he blurted. It was more a demand than a question.

“What? How can you say that after what I just heard? What exactly is your plan, Lawson, because it sounded like you were threatening Bart, and all humans,” she informed him. Liv’s hands crossed over her chest, and she narrowed her eyes.

“I was threatening him. I’m done with sitting back and doing nothing while people like Jensen kidnap and torture shifters. Bart needs to step up, or else,” he snapped and pinned her with his gaze. Was she defending that cowardly piece of shit?

“Or else what? What exactly will you do Lawson?” she countered. Her green eyes were filled with concern and confusion, and he hated to see her look at him with disappointment.

“I’ll do whatever is necessary. Maybe I’ll start burning down facilities after I search them for shifters. And, if a few humans are accidentally trapped inside…well, let’s just say that should get the media’s attention,” Lawson growled.

“Please don’t become what you hate. That’s not who you are. It’s certainly not who I fell in love with,” Liv said and reached over, stroking his arm.

Her touch soothed his anger and calmed his restless soul. Every word she uttered resonated deep inside. He didn’t want innocents to die. And, he sure as hell didn’t want to be in the same category as lowlifes like Jensen. Pulling her close, Lawson wrapped his arms around her waist. She went rigid against his body and looked away.

He sighed heavily. “You’re right. I don’t want any unnecessary death on my hands. But something has got to change. It’s time for the abuse to end,” he demanded and placed a finger under her chin, forcing her to look at him.

Green eyes met his and Lawson tilted his head. “Say something,” he urged.

She smiled slightly. “I agree. This has to stop, but not violently,” she replied. At that moment her phone made kissy noises, alerting her of a text message.

She reached in her back pocket and looked at the screen. “Bart’s asking if we can be at his house tomorrow morning at ten.”

“What for?” Lawson asked.

“Don’t know. It doesn’t say. What do you want me to tell him?”

“Tell him we’ll be there,” he replied and looked to the sky as dark clouds rushed in, covering the sky above.

Snow was in the forecast but only a few inches, which shouldn’t cause them any delays. He was still pissed, but Bart was their best chance at rescuing the captive shifters then getting these labs exposed and shut down permanently.

“Okay, it’s done,” she said, and her eyes darted upward.

Flurries cascaded to the ground, and the temperature dropped in a matter of seconds. As white flakes stuck in her hair, Liv reminded him of a beautiful Snow Queen. Her fiery green eyes melted his angered heart, and Lawson couldn’t help but stare in awe.

“What?” she asked and her brows furrowed.

“Nothing. Let’s get you inside before your thin blood turns to ice,” Lawson teased with a smirk.

“Are we staying here another night?” she asked as she huddled into her jacket.

“I don’t want to drive all the way back to Hollow Rock then drive to Chattanooga tomorrow morning. I’m sure the Packards won’t mind. Let’s grab some firewood out of the shed then go inside and check on the others,” he instructed then swatted her ass as she moved ahead of him.

“Yeah, a fire sounds good. Feels like it’s going to be a cold one,” Liv called over her shoulder and kept walking toward the shed. Her ass swayed to and fro, and Lawson lingered behind, enjoying the view.

They gathered as much as they could carry then unloaded the logs onto the hearth. Lawson started a fire then they walked down the hall to see how Blade and Slate were doing. Lawson was shocked when he stepped into the small bedroom.

Blade was awake and talking, albeit slowly, with his dad, and Slate’s eyes were cracked open as he listened to his mom. Lawson glanced over to Devin who shrugged in confusion before he pushed off the wall and walked over.

“So, how are they?” Lawson muttered under his breath, trying not to interrupt the family’s conversation.

“I think they’re going to be fine. Just seeing them open their eyes gave me hope. Personally, I think they should shift and let their bodies recover,” Devin offered as he glanced at the males on the bed.

Lawson walked to the end of the bed and cleared his throat. “Is there anything I can do or get for you? I started a fire so it will be plenty warm here tonight. Would you like me to run to the store and get food for everyone?”

“Bro, long time, no see,” Blade croaked.

“Yeah, you look like shit,” Lawson joked.

“Fuck you,” Blade countered and gave him the middle finger.

Lawson laughed then looked at Slate. “As soon as you two losers are feeling better, we need to go fishing. Just like old times,” he proposed, and Slate nodded his head.

“So, how about Liv and I run and grab some grub,” Lawson offered and reached for Liv’s hand.

“Thank you, but no,” Henry answered. “We’re going to take these two home. Annette has a huge pot of soup on the stove, and we need to get back. All of you are welcome to come with us. There’s plenty of room and food.”

“I appreciate the offer, but I need to get going,” Devin said. “I’ve got a long drive and want to get back to Safe Haven. See if Knox needs my help,” he added and shared a look with Lawson.

“Yeah, keep me posted on that situation,” Lawson said and clapped the male on the shoulder.

“Will do, A,” he responded then shook Henry’s hand and gave Annette a hug. “Glad your family is back together,” Devin said before leaving the room.

“I hope you and Liv will come for dinner?” Annette said and smiled widely. Lawson could see a huge weight had lifted since getting her sons back.

“I appreciate that, but I think we’ll stay here if you don’t mind. We’ve got an early start tomorrow,” Lawson explained. The truth was, he felt their family could use some alone time to reconnect. “Henry, do you need my help getting them to your vehicle?”

“That would be great. And, you two can stay as long as you like. I don’t know how to thank you for saving my boys. They wouldn’t have lived much longer if you hadn’t rescued them,” Henry acknowledged as he walked over and embraced him. It was the kind of hug men shared when words weren’t enough.

Lawson helped Henry get Slate and Blade to their car, and Henry promised to consider Lawson’s offer to visit Safe Haven. “I hope you’ll come. Trust me, now that your boys are safe, anger will take the place of relief. Vengeance is a deadly game, and I don’t want to see anything happen to you. Safe Haven can provide a more useful outlet. We can use good shifters like you. You will be safe there and have a purpose. We’re meeting with the governor tomorrow to address this bullshit with the labs,” Lawson explained to them.

“I promise, we’ll come to visit soon. Good luck with Governor Smith,” Henry stated before shutting his door and driving away. Lawson and Liv waved goodbye as their car drove down the dirt road.

Snow covered the ground in the short amount of time they stood there talking, and Lawson lifted his head to the sky, relishing the feel of the cold flakes pelting his face. His wolf howled, craving a taste.

“Babe, do you mind if I take a quick run? I need to decompress,” he admitted and leaned down to rub his nose against hers.

“On one condition,” she replied and kissed him lightly.

“What’s that?”

“I want to watch. Shift in front of me so I can see your wolf before you take off into the woods,” she practically begged.

He didn’t like giving that much control to his wolf, but the two had formed a bond. He felt certain his animal wouldn’t harm her.

“Okay, but whatever you do, don’t run. It will incite him to chase you,” Lawson told her.

She nodded her agreement, and Lawson removed his clothing, handing the bundle to Liv. He called to his wolf and shifted in the next breath then stared at his exquisite female through his animal’s eyes.

Liv extended her palm and called out, “Hey, Outlaw. Good to see you again.”

On all fours, he walked toward her cautiously, testing his wolf’s intent. There was no sign of malice or anger, so he continued until he reached her side. She reached over and stroked the fur along his back and face. Her touch ignited his beast, but it was on a deeper level than sex. He would protect her to the death.

She placed both hands on his face and rubbed his eyes and ears. He could see the smile on her face as she stared at him. His long tongue darted out and licked her mouth, and she giggled.

“Yeah, I like you, too. Now go have fun, but hurry back,” Liv said and pushed him toward the woods.

His wolf howled then took off running, invigorated by the cold snow beneath its paws, and the gorgeous redhead waiting for his return.

Lawson’s bare feet pounded the stairs leading to the cabin. He stepped inside, and the blazing fire instantly warmed his naked body. He spotted a pair of his sweatpants near the fireplace and quickly threw them on then made his way to the kitchen.

“Hey, Sunshine. Thanks for warming my clothes,” he said and walked over to the stove where Liv was stirring a large pot. “Mmm, what’s this?”

“Henry just dropped it off. Said Annette insisted because she knew we had nothing decent to eat,” she replied. “How was your run?”

“Incredible. I forgot how beautiful it is here.”

“Want some wine?” she asked.

“Sure, that sounds good,” he answered and reached into the cabinet and grabbed a glass then filled his and topped off Liv’s.

She had changed into a pair of shorts and an off-the-shoulder sweatshirt, along with her favorite pair of hot pink fuzzy socks. She looked good enough to eat, and Lawson leaned down, kissing her exposed neck.

“Want to eat now or wait a bit,” she murmured and tilted her head, allowing him more access.

“I can wait a bit. Why don’t you put that on simmer and let’s go sit by the fire,” he suggested as he nibbled the flesh at the base of her neck.

“Mmmm works for me,” she agreed then grabbed the bottle of wine.

They went to the living area, and Lawson grabbed several cushions from the sofa and piled them in the floor by the fire. Liv grabbed the large quilt off the back of the couch and spread it across the cushions then plopped down on the soft pallet.

“You know what I thought while you were gone?” she asked and took a sip of wine.

“All the wicked things you want to do to me?” he teased with a wink and sat down beside her.

“Not exactly,” she replied with a smirk. “I was thinking how nice it would be to have our own place. I mean, think about it. We could strip and run naked through the halls without the worry of someone seeing us,” she explained.

“You don’t like living at the hotel?” he asked. The last thing he wanted was for Liv to be unhappy, but it was important for an Alpha to be close to his pack.

“I love living at the hotel. I would live anywhere with you,” she professed and reached over, caressing his face. “I’m just saying this is really nice. Just us.”

Lawson leaned over and placed his lips to hers. He kissed her soft lips then teased the seam with his tongue, asking permission. Her lips parted, and he gingerly explored her hot cavern. Liv was more elegant than any wine, he thought as her sweetness filled his mouth. He wanted to take his time, even though his body demanded fast and furious.

“I agree. I was thinking the same thing earlier. Buying some land around here. A vacation home for when we need to escape. If I wasn’t sold before, your plans to run around naked made it a firm decision,” he admitted, and Liv’s eyes bulged.

“Really?” she asked excitedly and hooked her leg around his hip.

Immediately, his mind was thrown into the erotic, and Lawson latched onto her firm backside, pulling her against his raging erection.

“Yes, really. I have lots of ideas at the moment,” he declared as his cock jerked against her core.

“I can feel one of them,” she confessed and pressed her core against his cock as she twined her hand through his hair. “What else have you been thinking about?”

“All the wicked things I want to do to you?” he replied, and his hand traveled up her side then slid beneath her sweatshirt. He palmed her breast, wishing she hadn’t opted for a bra.

“Mmm, I like where we’re going with this,” she confessed as she arched into his grip. “Tell me a fantasy of yours,” she added as she kissed along his neck, nipping the flesh.

Lawson leaned back, searching her eyes. She was feeling playful if the sparkle to her emerald eyes was any indication. “Seriously?”

“Yeah, why not?” she asked as she leaned on her elbow. Her long red hair fell in loose waves, and she gave him a look who knew all too well. Liv was in a naughty mood. His favorite of all.

“Well, you’ve fulfilled a few of them without knowing it, Sunshine.”

He slipped his thumb inside her bra and found her turgid tip. Her eyes hooded as her chest lifted with each heavy breath.

“I suppose there’s one that comes to mind,” he offered and swirled his digit across the pebbled area.

“Do tell,” she encouraged and licked her lower lip. So fucking hot.

“I’d love for you to do a striptease,” he declared, carefully watching her reaction. His hand stopped its torture when she stilled, contemplating his words.

She sat quietly for a moment, but he could see the wheels turning in her head. She chewed on her lower lip, and Lawson’s dick sprang to life. She had the most magnificent mouth, particularly when it was around his cock.

Liv sat there for what seemed like an eternity, and he wished he hadn’t said anything about the striptease. Maybe that wasn’t something she was comfortable doing. It wasn’t like they went out dancing on the weekends. He made a mental note to take her out more often. She deserved to be pampered and spoiled all the time.

Just when Lawson thought she would deny his request, she smiled wryly. “Do we have any music?”

Lawson didn’t think twice. He hopped up from the cushions and retrieved his cell phone then rushed back to the living room before she changed her mind. He opened his playlist to see what struck his seductive nerve.

“Let me see that,” she interrupted and snatched his phone before he could select a song. “I think I should pick the music since I’ll be the one performing,” she pointed out then added, “Take a seat, and relax.”

Lawson opted for the Lazyboy near the fireplace. His body was wound tight at the mere thought of what was coming. His temptress never ceased to amaze him. He grabbed his wine and settled in the leather chair, eager for the show to begin.

“Ooo, this one is perfect,” she purred then lifted her glass and chugged the remaining wine. “For encouragement,” she informed then set down the glass. “You’ll have to forgive me for my less-than-sexy attire. Next time I’ll plan ahead,” she promised then pressed the phone screen and handed it to him.

Lawson glanced at her song choice and licked his lips. He increased the volume and hit play then placed the phone on the arm of the chair. Shit was about to get real, he thought as he watched Liv walk several steps away and stop, her back to him.

The music started, and Beyoncé crooned the lyrics to ‘Dance For You.’ Liv turned to face him, her green eyes pinning him in place. The silliness evaporated, and the atmosphere morphed into a tantalizing temptation.

Her hips rolled slowly, and her body followed their lead. He’d never seen her dance and had no idea she could move like that. He wanted to pounce and fuck her into tomorrow, but he was glued to the sight of her alluring body.

Liv slowly lifted her top and tossed it aside. Her breasts bounced with the movement, and he thanked the Gods she wasn’t wearing a bra. She had the best tits he’d ever seen, and his mouth watered when her rosy-pink nipples puckered under his scrutiny. Liv arched her back and pushed her breasts outward, trailing her hands over the full globes as she moved to the music. Her eyes never left his as she tugged her stiff peaks. Lawson imagined his hands were hers, exploring every glorious inch.

Her hands trailed lower across her soft abdomen then slid inside the waistband of her shorts. She slowly pushed them down her hips and legs then stepped out of them. His gaze landed on her lacy, black thong and his cock jerked in need.

Liv swayed toward him and lifted her hands to her hair, running her fingers through the long silky strands. The act pushed her breasts up and out, and Lawson thought he would cum from the seductive sight. His breathing turned to pants and his shaft pulsed painfully, causing him to adjust the unruly bastard. Liv smiled when he reached to his groin. She knew exactly what she was doing to his body, and seemed to enjoy torturing him. Next, she slowly removed her panties before tossing the garment toward his face. Lawson caught them in midair and brought it to his nose, inhaling the lemony scent. The smell of her arousal made his shaft harden further.

The slow and deliberate move of her body called to every part of him. Words weren’t needed. The conversation with their eyes was a bigger turn-on than any dirty talk. Liv made her way to him and stopped in front of the chair. Her torso twisted and rolled as if she were making love to him. She slowly turned, exposing her backside. Her ass swirled in a circle as she worked her body toward the floor then back up again.

Unable to resist, he reached out to caress her soft flesh, squeezing her ass cheek. Liv looked over her shoulder and green eyes filled with desire captured him. He was entranced by the female dancing before him.

He grabbed her waist and turned her, so she was facing him. He could smell her arousal as she continued her seduction, and he craved a taste. Lawson reached between her legs and slowly massaged the small thatch of curls then slid through her feminine folds.

Her warm juices coated his fingers as she ground against his ministrations. She felt so fucking good, and her arousal thickened when his touch traveled over her engorged nub. Lawson couldn’t wait any longer. He had to taste Liv before he lost his fucking mind.

Lawson leaned forward and buried his face in her sex. The music continued as he lapped at her juices. Liv moaned and grabbed his hair and worked her body against his mouth, seeking friction.

His tongue swirled across her feminine folds as her body moved against his mouth. Liv’s moans filled his ears, drowning out the soulful tune. Lawson was consumed by his need to give her pleasure. He wanted to hear her cry out his name as she climaxed.

He lifted her leg and placed it over his shoulder so he could explore further. One finger slipped inside her body and found the spot that sent her over the edge. The way she bucked uncontrollably when he added a second finger told him how much she loved what he was doing. When he sucked her clit, she detonated, shouting his name as her orgasm rippled through her body.

When her body went lax, Lawson picked Liv up and carried her to the pallet of cushions beside the fire. “Thank you for the dance,” he murmured then kissed her full lips.

Their mouths moved together to the sound of the music. He planned on making love the way she danced for him. Slow and deliberate.

“Anything for you,” she whispered against his mouth.

Lawson groaned at hearing her words. She owned him in every way, and he wanted her to know it. Luckily, the night was young, and his phone was fully charged. Beyoncé just became his favorite artist.