Ella

Ella called Sabine the moment she got out of her interview. She was so giddy, she couldn’t wait. There was no answer and instantly she started to worry. Ella was a short ride from the hospital so she headed that way.

Twenty minutes later, she was standing at the nurse’s station.

“I am looking for Sabine Roulant,” Ella inquired with the woman wearing a severe mien, much like Nurse Ratchet.

“They took her down for physical therapy. It’s on the lower level.”

“Okay. Thanks.”

I hope Sabine doesn’t have to deal with her often. Most of the staff was super wonderful.

Ella made her way down to the P.T. room and found Sabine walking with the assistance of the therapist. The look of concentration on her face was inspiring and heart rending at the same time. Ella watched Sabine’s left foot drag with each shuffle forward. It was devastating to watch her sister’s slow decline.

You need to snap out of it. You’re not the one with ALS.

Sabine had some weird form of Lou Gehrig’s disease. It had started attacking her when they were barely school age. She’d been in and out of hospitals and treatment centers for as long as they both could remember.

“Hey Bella Bear.” Sabine smiled and it lit up the room.

“We’re in public.”

“So,” Sabine replied, knowing full well it drove Ella nuts when she called her that in public.

Ella rolled her eyes, then remembered the good news she’d come to share.

“You want to go to the cafeteria for coffee or ice cream?”

“Of course.” Sabine grinned, as the therapist helped her into a wheel chair, and Ella pushed her out of the room. “Are you going to make me wait to tell me?”

“I got the job,” Ella nearly burst as she announced the news.

“You did?” Sabine slurred slightly, since she was excited and exhausted from therapy. “I knew you would.”

“Yeah, they looked at my references and portfolio, then asked me on the spot. I can hardly believe the way I hit it off with the partners.”

“Bella Bear, I’m so glad.”

“The job doesn’t start till next month, but they’re sending me a letter of intent.”

“You deserve this,” Sabine beamed. “You want some other good new?”

“Sure,” Ella replied.

“Now, I don’t want you to get your hopes up, but watch.” Sabine held her hand up and proceeded to pinch each finger to her thumb, one after another, then in reverse, from her pinky to her index finger. It didn’t seem like much, but Sabine had lost such fine motor control several months ago. “I think whatever they’ve got me on is working, Bella Bear. I’ve even been feeling different. More energized somehow.”

Ella stopped pushing the wheelchair and stepped in front of her sister, tears filling her eyes. Sabine grinned wider, her eyes also misting, as Ella dove in for a hug.

“I told you not to get your hopes up,” Sabine stammered happily.

“I’ll get my hopes up if I want to. This is… Oh, my, god,” Ella warbled. “You are so stinking tough, Sabine. It humbles me how you handle any of this.”

“I’ve got someone awesome in my corner,” Sabine smiled. Her expression suddenly shifted. “Um, Bella Bear.”

“Yeah.” Ella released her sister’s shoulders.

“You need to crank it back.” Sabine pointed around the hall.

Ella looked around and her eyes widened. The magazines nearby, were hovering off the table. The clipboard was rattling in the holder on the door, and the row of seats were dancing on the linoleum. It would only take a slight push for Ella to send everything whipping about in maelstrom.

“Darn it,” Ella smirked.

She locked down on her emotions, and everything fell where it was. It truly sucked not being able to let out the full measure of her happiness in situations like this.

“Well, at least no one was here,” Sabine said with a grin that made it all better.

No sooner had Sabine made the comment, then a trio of doctors in lab coats exited a set of double doors. Ella’s mouth gaped at their near miss. She grabbed Sabine’s wheelchair and scampered down the hall, like a thief escaping the scene of a crime. 

“My control has been tested a lot lately.”

“Really? Why?” Sabine asked as they turned the corner leading to the cafeteria.

“Our new neighbor is hot,” Ella blushed.

“You don’t say.”

“Like forget your name hot. And he’s a biker.”

“You better tell me everything. You know I live vicariously through you,” her sister demanded.

“He knocked on the door last night, worried I might have been hurt in the earthquake we had.” Ella tried to keep a straight face as she spoke.

“Earthquake?” Sabine asked in confusion, then her eyes widened. “Ella! What were you doing?”

Ella turned a bright shade of red. She wasn’t about to say out loud that she’d been masturbating in the shower. It was too embarrassing to dwell on.

“Ella, you dirty bird,” Sabine crowed.

Ella hid her head. She didn’t even have to say anything for her sister to put two and two together.

“Shhh,” Ella insisted as they headed toward the coffee cups. “I don’t know why I said anything.”

“Please. If these fingers keep working so well, you better believe I’ll be…”

“Sabine! Are you trying to make me have another conniption?” That was their code for Ella’s little episodes.

“You’re a prude.”

“For the love of god, don’t tell me again about losing the big V in a hospital bed,” Ella begged.

“Then tell me about hot neighbor.”

“I don’t know. Wright didn’t like him. He attacked the man’s ankle.” Ella didn’t know what to make of that.

“Really? Wright likes everybody,” Sabine smirked.

“I know. Hot biker said he was fine, and it only looked like a flesh wound. I’m just hoping he doesn’t change his mind, and call animal control.”

“You have mace, right? Just in case Wright ‘s instincts were good, and he’s a serial killer or something.”

“Sabine, you honestly think I need mace to put a man in his place?”

“Oh yeah,” Sabine snorted. “I almost forgot that time Jason tried to kiss you, and ended up with a concussion on the other side of the room.”

“Exactly. And thanks for the reminder, funny girl. I actually wanted to kiss Jason.” Ella stuck her tongue out at her sister.

“You just need to get a big ole dildo and…” Sabine said a little louder than necessary

The people at the next table looked over with shocked expressions. Ella wanted to hide under the table.

“So help me, Sabine, if you finish that thought.”

“What? They say I’m suffering from neural degeneration in the area of my brain that handles impulse control,” Sabine stated seriously.

“Bull shit, you liar.” Ella’s hand flew to her mouth in mortification after letting the curse loose.

“I know, but that was so worth it. Ella Roulant said a bad word. Oh, the horror.” Sabine’s hand covered her mouth mocking Ella, before she doubled over with laughter, nearly spilling her coffee.

 

Ella couldn’t help the goofy grin she wore all the way home on the train. That is until she reached her destination.

This commute just might kill me, Ella decided as she got off the train and started walking toward her apartment.

She got a good deal on her retro, peep-toe, heels. And they looked darn good with her vintage interview suit. But they were a nightmare to walk in.

Whoever invented heels should’ve been shot.

Ella sighed, giving into the impulse to use her curse. She did this trick she learned after years of wearing the torture devices to office jobs and internships. She levitated ever so slightly, not enough so she came off the ground, but just enough to ease her weight with each step. It was a life saver after a long day.

You better hustle.

Ella stayed so long, chatting with Sabine, that she would just make it back in time for her appointment with the owner of the apartment complex. Ella didn’t mind one bit, that she had to rush. It had been a wonderful day, and she didn’t get many of those with her sister. It was the meeting she dreaded. The closer she got to the apartment office, the more anxious she got. Things had gone so well today. She hoped her luck held.

Ella walked into the office to find it empty. She glanced at her phone to confirm she wasn’t late. The minutes passed and she started pacing as her anxiety grew.

Relax, Ella coached herself so her curse didn’t start acting up.

It was nearly half an hour past four when the bell on the door chimed halting her stride. Ella was miffed, until she turned and saw who entered the office. Her jaw nearly hit the floor.

Oh, just great!

 

Wolf

Wolf tugged at the collar of the dress shirt he’d put on. He didn’t know what compelled him to put on the monkey suit.

Cause you want to impress your Hot-For-Teacher neighbor. Moron.

He should’ve known seeing the clubhouse, along with Vick and Tony, was going to have him straining to shift in his suit.

The couches and tables were pretty much destroyed, though sadly, the brain-dead duo had only helped the process along. The pack was murder on furniture on a good day, let alone when shit got hairy. It was the man-sized hole, from the main room into the bathroom, that had Wolf pissed. But even this level of carnage didn’t trump the fact, the two Shifters acted like dumb asses in public.

We don’t need the attention, he growled.

“Did you brainless fuckers settle up at the Rusty Bucket?” Wolf demanded as he toured the clubhouse.

“Of course we did.” Vick sounded almost indignant, till Wolf raised a brow at him, and issued a subtle rumble.

Vick knew this would be his only warning. Just because they were his betas, it didn’t give them a free pass to act like douche bags, and then be disrespectful when he called them on it.

“Good, so you’ll make sure the owner doesn’t lose a cent, cause you two were acting like rabid animals?”

The two males nodded.

“Now, regarding this.” Wolf pointed to the hole in the wall. “Honestly, Tony, you had to bust a fucking wall with pipes in it. You couldn’t have thrown Vick through that one over there?”

Tony shrugged, looking sheepish.

“Well, I hope you two enjoyed it, cause you’re paying for the repairs, and anything else I think needs to happen here.”

“Seriously Wolf? The place already needed work,” Tony argued.

Wolf was in Tony’s face in an instant, fangs bared.

“As my betas, I trusted you to hold down the fucking pack while I was away. You’re lucky I don’t strip you of your status, kick your ass, and send you out there with your tails tucked,” Wolf snarled. “So, if I want you to fix this place, wreck it, and fix it again, you’ll do it with a fucking smile on your happy little faces.”

“Yes sir.” Tony shrank back, duly chastised. The betas knew they screwed the pooch big time with little stunt in front of Outsiders.

“You can start by getting rid of the furniture and tearing out the rest of the busted drywall.” Wolf didn’t bother to see if they nodded, as he stormed out of the clubhouse.

Wolf walked to his Charger and yanked open the door. First, he had to deal with his two betas, who had the nerve to show him attitude. Now, he had to go meet his neighbor, and listen to whatever line she fed him for not having rent.

Awesome day. Just another awesome day. Why am I not in Cabo sucking down tequila shots?

Wolf wasn’t a total prick; he knew people fell on hard times. But he also wasn’t a push-over. The curvy little Ice Princess, with the yippy micro mutt, might be hot as hell, but that didn’t mean shit. No doubt she knew how smokin’ she was, and used it to get away with crap all the time. Wolf had met more than a few chicks, who thought they were entitled.

Wolf’s inner beast growled at the accusation he leveled toward Little-Miss-Straight-Laced.

Forget it, he lectured his inner wolf.

His cock had done his thinking for him, one too many times, and it never turned out good. This was no different. Besides, any woman who could shut her emotions and body down, the way the Ice Princess did, couldn’t be trusted.

Yet still you’re wearing this monkey suit to impress a woman who looks like a sexy librarian.

Wolf did a double take at a chick walking down the sidewalk, as he pulled into the apartment complex.

Of course, Wolf groaned. It was none other than Little-Miss-Straight-Laced. What the hell is she doing walking in those heels? There wasn’t much in the neighborhood besides homes. Where is she coming from? Please tell me she’s not out for a leisurely stroll, wearing that? Is she so full of it that she can’t throw on a pair of jeans and tennis shoes? As he recalled, she had been wearing something similar when he first met her. What’s with this chick?

Wolf was glad his windows were tinted, as he pulled into the parking lot and watched his neighbor enter the office. It was a good sign she didn’t go rummaging through the desk.

At least she’s not a thief.

Instead, she sat nibbling on her full lip, before getting up and pacing impatiently.

She certainly doesn’t look poor. Maybe she spends all her money on fancy clothes.

Her expensive looking dress suit was a mix of professional and provocative. The tiny jacket exposed the curve of her neck, as it met her shoulder. Wolf’s canines itched as they punched down in his mouth. He salivated at the thought of taking a nip of her delicate flesh.

Her tight-fitting skirt, clung to her pert ass as she paced. She was wearing a set of black high heels, and the kind of pantyhose that had a seam running up the calf. Wolf pictured a lacey garter holding the stockings up.

God, those things should be illegal. The image of those indecent stockings and fuck-me heels draped over his shoulders, as he... Shit man, get it together, before you walk in there. What is your preoccupation with this one?

Her hair was up in a prudish bun again. It was a damn shame she forced those soft brown tresses into a knot, especially when it looked so good falling around her shoulders. Wolf recalled how she looked last night, with her loose damp hair, and the robe clinging to her curves. The thought of winding his fist in her hair and holding her head poised over his cock, had him straining in his pants. Those glossy red lips would look so good stretched around his dick.

You’re doing it again. Damn it.

Wolf shook his head when he realized he’d spent half an hour sitting outside trying to get a bead on the woman, and the only thing it had earned him was a hard-on.

Son of a bitch.

Wolf got out of the car, and adjusted his jacket to hide his wayward libido. Otherwise, she’d take one look at him, and know she had him right where she wanted him. Wolf put on a stern unaffected expression as he entered the office.

“Bella Roulant” Her name rolled off his tongue and she turned with a surprised look.

“Yes. Call me Ella. So, you own this place?” She asked, appearing slightly surprised.

“Yes. My sister, Char, said you needed to meet with me, Bella.”

Wolf refused to call her by the shortened version of her name. Not only was the name on her lease gorgeous, like the woman, but Ella was a nickname, and as much as his inner beast wanted to get familiar with Little-Miss-Straight-Lace, they weren’t.

Ella stood and presented her small hand. Her long delicate fingers, with manicured nails, hung in the air, waiting for him to shake. Wolf took her hand, and instantly a strange shock moved up his arm, as she gripped him in her firm grasp. Ella was stronger than she looked.

Wolf’s beast decided to make itself known. Most of the time he had a handle on his primal side, but every now and then something sent it surging to the forefront. Sex and violence being the biggest triggers.

“I’m sorry, I didn’t catch your name.”

“Wolf.” The reply came out sounding deeper than he intended.

“Thank you for meeting with me, Mr. Wolf. Sorry that Wright bit you last night.”

“It’s just Wolf, not Mr. Wolf, and don’t worry about your pup.”

Wolf still held her hand, trying to determine why Ella made his beast come to attention with a simple touch. It’s not like he hadn’t touched gorgeous women before. Shifters didn’t have trouble in that department.

Ella lowered her eyes and Wolf realized he’d been staring at her. The shy look caught him off guard.

“Okay, Wolf, thank you for meeting with me.” Ella extricated her small hand from his much larger one, and the strange sensation disappeared. “I’ll get straight to it, and not waste your time. I’m going to be rather late on my second month’s rent. I am willing to pay a late fee if possible.”

Wolf practically had to shake himself to get his beast under control. It was begging him to grab hold of her again.

“I appreciate that you let me know. But you just moved in, and you’re already going to be in arrears?” he asked, attempting to not let too much of his animal leak into his voice.

“Yes. I’m sorry. I feel awful asking this.”

“Rent’s not that much. If you don’t have the money now, what makes you think you’re going to have it later? And then again the month after that?”

Wolf watched as Ella’s face hardened and that barrier went up. It was like a light switch had been flipped, leaving him in the dark. It was uncanny and disconcerting.

“You are correct. I will have my things out by the end of the month.” Ella nodded curtly.

Wolf caught a flicker of something in her eyes as she turned to leave.

On one hand, he had to hand it to her, for not bawling and trying to manipulate him with tears. He’d known more than a few chicks that used waterworks, when their tits didn’t work to get them what they wanted. Instead, Ella sucked it up with just a small slip. But on the other hand, her stoic response pissed him off more than if she had tried the weepy routine.

What the hell kind of woman shoves down her emotions so effectively? How does she do that? Some Shifters weren’t even that good at shielding themselves.

“Is that it? You’re just giving up, and moving?” Wolf found himself demanding.

Ella turned and looked at him. The veiled pain that snuck past her calm mask nearly leveled him, before she again schooled her features.

“Would it matter? You don’t know me from Adam. And I don’t know your situation. You probably need every dollar you earn to pay the mortgage. Thank you for your time.” Ella pivoted toward the door on her stiletto heels.

Man, she’s one tuff cookie.

“Bullshit,” Wolf barked and Ella gasped. She was indeed straight-laced if cussing offended her. “You can’t give me a single reason why I should extend you a favor?”

“Wolf, my excuse shouldn’t matter.” Ella straightened her shoulders. “I assumed that by coming to you openly, if you could afford to help me and were so inclined, you would. You say that you cannot. I accept that. No argument.” She was aggravated, but she also appeared tired.

Wolf felt like a dick, but he refused to apologize. Ella was a conundrum. There was something about her that needled him. Ella attempted to leave, again. It was apparent she didn’t like conflict.

“Hold it,” he insisted. Ella paused. “I didn’t say no. I asked you what makes you think you’re going to have rent later, if you don’t have it now? It was an honest question.”

Ella turned back around and eyed him. Her brows scrunched in consternation. It was actually pretty endearing. Wolf liked the fact he was getting to her. Even her scent had spiked, giving off a sharp, slightly savory aroma.

“If you must know, I just graduated with my bachelors in interior design.” Ella looked a little old to be fresh out of college, but it took some longer than others. “And I was offered a job today. It doesn’t start for another few weeks, but when it does I’ll be able to pay you.”

Wolf repressed the grin he felt tugging at his mouth, seeing Ella’s hands on her hips, in a confidant and somewhat defiant stance. Her spirited attitude had Wolf’s inner beast straining toward her.

“Congratulations. So, where’s this job?” he asked with sincere interest.

“A place called Perkins and Will, in Chicago,” Ella replied, looking a bit discombobulated by his earnest inquiry. She shifted uncomfortably on her feet.

Wolf suddenly realized Ella had been walking back from the Metra station earlier wearing her swank little interview outfit. She probably didn’t even own a car. She must really be desperate if she was living this far outside Chicago, renting from his shitty little apartment complex.

Wolf glanced at her oversized shoulder bag with a thick binder sticking up

“What do you have there?”

“My portfolio.”

“You mind if I take a look?” he asked. Ella frowned but dug out her portfolio anyway. “Have a seat. I don’t know how you can possibly stay upright in those shoes,” Wolf commented as he flipped open her binder.

“Um, okay.” The crease in her brow deepened as she sat.

“These are nice. You have a wide variety of interiors. This mural is really good. It’s not over the top like most.” Wolf admired the picture of a bathroom turned Zen garden.

“Thanks,” Ella mumbled.

Wolf looked over, and was stunned to see the flush in her cheeks. She was embarrassed. Again, he was shocked. Ella was so put together; modesty seemed contradictory to the way she carried herself.

“It looks hand painted,” he commented.

“It was.”

“Well the artist is talented.” Wolf studied the photograph.

“Thank you,” Ella replied quietly. Wolf watched her cheeks turn an even deeper shade of red.

“You painted it, didn’t you?” he asked.

Wolf almost missed her subtle nod. Ella was talented. Why did that embarrass her? With her barrier dropped, there was something erotically compelling about Ella. The primal side of him again shifted beneath his skin. The mysterious woman peaked his curiosity and incited his hunting instinct.

“Here’s the deal. I have a job for you. I need work done on my clubhouse. In exchange, I will cover your rent and utilities, till your job starts and you get your first paycheck.”

Ella’s mouth dropped open, shocked and confused by his sudden offer.

“Are you sure?” she stammered.

Wolf was a bit stunned himself. He’d completely intended to stand his ground. He couldn’t let people walk all over him, even gorgeous women. An alpha had his reputation to uphold. But then his mouth opened and out came the offer.

Well this way the clubhouse will look less like a garage sale.

If he was honest, he liked the idea of seeing Ella more often, and maybe riling the unflappable little female. Wolf couldn’t resist the impulse. His mouth cocked up at the corners in a raffish smile.

“You may not want the job after I show you the clubhouse.”

It wasn’t so much the building as the occupants that might be an issue. Then again, exposing Little-Miss-Straight-Laced to the pack might be entertaining.

“No. I’m sure I can do the job. Thank you.” Ella smiled and it transformed her face.

Ah, damn, he groaned, lost in her beauty.

Wolf almost felt bad for wanting to tarnish her polished veneer.

“You should look at it before you agree. It’s probably a bit different from what you’re used to. It’s a motorcycle club.”

“Oh, okay.” Ella was still smiling but now she looked thoughtful.

Wolf ushered Ella to his car before she could change her mind. He was glad it didn’t take long to get to the clubhouse on the edge of town. He had a hard time keeping his eyes on the road. His gaze was drawn to Ella’s legs. Her dark skirt had ridden above her knees, giving him a peek of the lacey top of her stockings, and a scant bit of her creamy thighs.

Ah hell, you ARE a bad man. She’s like a nun in the body of a stripper, he rebuked himself while clenching the steering wheel.

Wolf swung his Charger into a parking spot up front, then went around and opened Ella’s door, before she beat him to it.

 

Ella

Ella wasn’t sure what to make of Wolf as she watched the small town go by, from the passenger seat of his sports car. It was a bit of a surprise to discover he owned the apartment complex. She didn’t know what she expected, but she certainly hadn’t pegged the sexy biker as a real estate investor. Then again, she didn’t really know Wolf.

Ella was positive Wolf was going to turn her down, and she’d have to find a new place to live, probably in an unsavory neighborhood. Wright’s little stunt the night before certainly hadn’t helped her cause any. She was beyond disappointed after having such an awesome day, but she refused to whine or beg. Ella prided herself as a survivor, and rarely asked anyone for help. She didn’t believe others should suffer at her expense.

Wolf then flipped the script on her, getting mad that she refused to make excuses. Ella couldn’t understand why he cared to know the reason she couldn’t make rent.

I guess if you’re going to give handouts, you want to know it’s for a good reason. I’m not some addict, frittering my rent money away on drugs. But how would he know.

The next thing she knew Wolf was complimenting her portfolio, making her blush, and offering her a job.

Wolf was a hard man to read. But, there was one thing she knew for certain; he was a rogue. The way he prodded her until she talked to him, was unsettling. Wolf had a disarming effect on her, every time he drew near. What’s more, her reaction seemed to amuse and rile him further.

Wolf pulled into a large parking lot at the edge of town, and Ella looked at the building he called a clubhouse. It wasn’t exactly what she expected, when she thought of a biker hangout. This was a two-story Art Deco building, constructed of creamy glazed brick. There was a wood privacy fence that extended down one side, and appeared to encompass a large area out back. Beyond that was a copse of mature trees. The property was nice and looked well cared for. Ella suddenly wondered if Wolf had manufactured a reason to help her.

 

Wolf

“You know, you don’t have to take pity on me,” Ella commented as she looked at the exterior of the clubhouse.

The building was in good shape. He had work done on it last summer. The interior was a different matter. It hadn’t been touched since the early seventies.

“This isn’t a pity job, believe me,” Wolf assured her.

Wolf had to resist the urge to place his hand at the small of her back, as he escorted Ella inside. Ella stopped when they entered the main room. Her eyes widened as she looked around.

Wolf groaned. He forgot he told Vick and Tony to start tearing the damaged drywall out. There was so much plaster dust, it looked like it snowed inside.

“Yeah, I guess you do need a little update. What happened over here?” Ella strode forward to examine the busted-out studs and pipe between the main room and the bathroom.

Wolf couldn’t admit what actually happened. Human men didn’t toss each other through walls.

“I think it was the earthquake,” he offered.

Ella choked, instantly turning bright red. Wolf wasn’t sure, but she looked embarrassed for some reason. It was an odd response, but women were strange, especially this one. Ella’s expression shifted again.

“Look, Wolf, don’t fib to me. This isn’t earthquake damage.” Ella stated, appearing peeved as she pinned him with a stern gaze. “And if it was, damage of this kind would mean other structural problems, that a little paint and tile won’t fix.”

Shit! Busted.

She turned and ran her hand over a broken pipe that bent inward.

“You said this is a motorcycle club. Are you sure someone didn’t run a bike through this wall?” Her left eyebrow rose, challenging him to lie to her again.

Why didn’t you think of the motorcycle excuse? A Mensa candidate you are not, Wolf.

“You caught me.” Wolf held his hands up in resignation. “I didn’t want to scare you off so soon. Things can get a little wild around here.”

Emphasis on the wild part.

“Wolf, I can’t design something that will work for you, if you aren’t honest with me about your needs.” She pointed at the giant hole.

Oh, I have needs, Princess.

“I apologize. That makes a lot of sense,” he replied. A rotten inclination entered Wolf’s head. “You know, the best way to see what things are like, would be to come to a party. Well it’s not really a party, as much as a run of the mill Friday night.”

“That would give me an idea how you use the space.”

Ella looked toward the pool table, entertainment unit, and the new dumpy couches and tables, that were moved in to replace the broken ones. Wolf was a bit embarrassed by the pathetic sight.

As Ella turned, she stumbled over a crowbar. Wolf reached out lightning fast, and gripped her around the waist, before she fell flat on the floor. Ella’s eyes widened as she looked up at his face, and Wolf realized he had a solid grip on her full ass.

Time stood still as Wolf looked down into Ella’s hazel eyes. The flecks of green in her irises sparkled like tiny emeralds. The air seemed to vibrate as he held her. Ella licked her glossy red lips, and Wolf very much wanted a taste.

“Um,” Ella squeaked.

“Sorry about that. Are you okay?”

Wolf released her, though he hated doing it. Ella’s pert little behind felt right in his hands. He imagined clutching those lush globes as he made Little-Miss-Straight-Laced come unglued beneath him.

“That’s okay. Thanks.” Ella cast him a shy smile.

Her guileless response made him want to reach out and grab her again. His inner wolf agreed.

“Join me for dinner,” Wolf blurted. “We can discuss my budget,” he quickly amended.

Ella was biting her lip as she considered his offer, when the roar of bikes outside distracted her. Vick, Tony, Mark and Jericho entered the clubhouse carrying on like they usually did.

The four Shifters looked Ella up and down with a familiarity Wolf didn’t appreciate. Before he could let out the subtle growl forming in his chest, the men burst out laughing.

“Sorry man. We didn’t know you were trying out a new sweet butt,” Jericho chuckled.

Ella frowned as she looked from the jack asses to Wolf. She’d relaxed around him, at least marginally, but suddenly that damn wall was back up again.

“Is there a bathroom I can use?” Ella asked uncomfortably.

“Of course. The ladies use the bathroom on the other side of the hall. It’s the one that wasn’t demolished,” he pointed out.

The four mongrels watched Ella walk away despite Wolf glaring at them. Mark had the audacity to laugh so hard he doubled over.

“I’m not interviewing a club whore, assholes,” Wolf growled low, so only they could hear him.

Ella was as far from a club whore as you could possibly get. In fact, the suggestion grated on Wolf’s nerves for some crazy reason.

“Could’ve fooled us.” Jericho pointed to Ella’s retreating figure.

Wolf turned to see what had them acting like idiots.

“Fucking hell,” he groaned as he watched her disappear into the bathroom.

“Come on man. That’s hilarious,” Jericho insisted.

 

Ella

Ella nearly died when Wolf tried to blame the damaged wall on the non-existent earthquake.

If he only knew the cause of the apartment tremor.

Ella was so distracted, she nearly broke her neck, when she stumbled over the prybar. It took everything in her power to keep it together, as Wolf’s large capable hands gripped her behind. He lingered for a bit longer than was necessary. The searing heat from his palms, working its way through her, settling in the pit of her stomach. Maybe it was her imagination, but Ella thought Wolf looked at her with more than casual interest, as he held her against his rock-hard body. He smelled so good, like leather and musk.

Oh god, relax, relax. One, two, three, four…. Ella struggled to dispel the cascading feelings of desire that were stirring up her curse. Thankfully he let her go just in time.

Ella knew she shouldn’t go to dinner with Wolf, but she really wanted to. She was going around and round in her head, when the four rowdy bikers walked in. The guys were just as massive as Wolf, making her wonder if they put steroids in the town drinking water.

No wonder the clubhouse looks the way it does. All it would take is one drunken brawl, to do some real damage. Exhibit A; the hole in the wall.

The men were typical bikers, rough around the edges, matching leather jackets, grease on their jeans, and tattoos peeking out here and there. At least they didn’t sport long shaggy ZZ Top beards, or have pot bellies, like so many of the bikers she’d seen. Even though Wolf wore a tailored suit, she knew he was every bit the badass these other men were, perhaps more so.

What Ella didn’t understand, was why the four men laughed and called her something derogatory? They didn’t know her. Ella felt the need to flee, when their mocking tone caused a horrible memory from middle school to surface.

Her teenage years had been so awkward. Miserable really. She was just learning about her quirky nature, and it was taking its toll on her. Sabine was sick all the time, so her parents had little time for her, between doctor’s visits and hospital stays. Ella had been desperate for her mother’s attention as womanhood struck. Her mother was so stylish, but Rene was doing her best to hold herself together, much less bother with an awkward preteen.

Ella shivered as she recalled the horrendous perm that turned her into a human poodle. Ella’s attempt at a self-makeover had failed miserably. She was lucky she didn’t burn her hair off with all those chemicals. The worst part was going to school looking like she’d stuck her finger in an electrical socket. Kids could be so cruel. The popular boy sitting behind her in class laughed, as he informed her he spat in her hair. If Ella had the power then, that she had now, she might have sent him careening into the wall. Instead she shut down her despair, and congratulated him in her most scathing sarcastic voice.

Granted it was over a decade later, and she’d grown into all her body parts, but Ella still felt like that ugly duckling. It was foolish, but she couldn’t help it. Ella sighed as she hustled into the bathroom, and attempted to calm down.

Oh, dear god. THIS is the ladies room?

Grungy didn’t quite describe it. Ella could only imagine what the men’s room looked like before the pipes ruptured, hosing it clean.

Ella smoothed down her jacket, then turned to use the toilet. That’s when she caught a glimpse of something white on the back of her skirt. Her eyes widened as she saw two large drywall-dust handprints, one on each cheek.

Ohhh, Ella repressed the screech that wanted to bubble up, as she scrubbed at the dusty marks. No wonder the men had been laughing at her. What did they call me? A sweet butt? What is that? Some sort of whore?

The way they asked Wolf if he was trying out a new sweet butt, made it sound like a common occurrence. Ella imagined Wolf going through girls like water. At least that was the implication from the comment the blonde guy made.

Ella couldn’t believe she got all worked up with his hands on her butt. He could’ve grabbed my arms to steady me, like a normal person, she huffed. He probably gets away with pawing ladies all the time. All he has to do is flash that panty melting smile. God I’m so stupid. He’s probably getting a good chuckle right about now.

The flare of excitement Ella felt earlier was instantly crushed. It was replaced with embarrassment and frustration.

“What are you moaning about?” Ella muttered to herself as she hovered over the toilet.

How many times do you have to remind yourself, you aren’t like other people? And even if you were, getting involved with a man like that would no doubt end in heartache.

Ella took several deep breaths, steeling herself as she exited the bathroom. Ella couldn’t look at Wolf, so she toured the room, taking a few pictures with her cell phone while guesstimating the dimensions. It gave her a chance to dispel her lingering embarrassment.

“I think I have what I need. Wolf, I’ll have to take a raincheck on dinner. I should get home and let Wright out, but thank you,” Ella said politely without making eye contact. “Is this the only space you want me to work on, or do you want to include the bathrooms and the connected kitchen?”

“They all need to be redone.”

“Ah man. Seriously?” the blonde biker groaned.

Ella hoped the complaint wasn’t directed specifically at her and what she might do to their den of iniquity.

Whatever.

“Alright, I’ll put a proposal together.” Ella turned toward the complainer and the brown-haired biker, who were tearing out the broken studs in the damaged wall. “By the way, you should to stop what you’re doing. That’s a load bearing wall. You need to get a lolly column, or the place is going to come down around your ears.” Ella might be a girl, but that didn’t mean she didn’t know her business.

“Shit! I’m a grease monkey, not a damn carpenter,” the blonde complainer grumbled.

“Shut-up, you whiney bastard,” the brown-haired biker shoved the blonde.

“Cut it out,” Wolf growled at the two men, then led Ella out to his car. “Thanks for the advice on the wall. You sure I can’t get you to change your mind about dinner?” Wolf wore a slight frown and appeared genuinely disappointed.

Ella shook it off. His puppy dog eyes wouldn’t work on her.

I’m sure you’ll find a new sweet butt soon.

“No, but I really do appreciate you giving me this opportunity.” Ella remembered her manners, giving him a genuine smile. She didn’t want Wolf to think she didn’t appreciate him giving her the job in exchange for rent.

Wolf nodded, then they drove the five minutes back to the apartment in silence. Wolf kindly opened her car door when they arrived, and walked her to her apartment.

“Should I pick you up for the get-together tomorrow night?” he asked.

Ella repressed a groan. She forgot she agreed to go to the party at the clubhouse.

“I’m not sure what I’ve got going on tomorrow. I can find my way. What time should I be there?”

If Wolf picked her up, it would feel too much like a date, though she doubted he intended it that way. Then again, maybe he did. In that case, she shouldn’t encourage him.

Ugh. Ella was so confused.

She’d done a good job avoiding guys after the few hairy incidences in her youth. She wasn’t experienced in reading their intentions. Of course, none of the men she encountered in the past had been half as difficult to ignore as Wolf. He radiated a power all his own. She was inexplicably drawn to him like a magnet.

“Things don’t really get going till nine.” Wolf ran his hand through his unruly black hair. Ella watched the compelling casual gesture, wondering how it would feel to run her fingers through his wavy mane. “You might wear something a bit more relaxed,” Wolf added, snapping Ella out of her day dream.

Get it together, Ella. I hope he didn’t see you ogling him. That man doesn’t need the added ego boost. Why does he have to be so sexy?

“Okay, see you there. Good night,” she replied.

Ella opened her door and quickly fled inside. Wright was desperate to go for a walk, but Ella waited, hoping Wolf had gone into his own apartment, before she headed back out again.