After meeting with King Kincaid, where he had given me a cell phone so he could contact me at all times, I roamed the halls of King Cave searching for Ezra, since over the past few days we had been too busy for extracurricular activities, and I was beginning to get a little itchy for some horizontal time. Pearl and Jack hadn’t been in our room, so I didn’t know where the hell anyone was at. The King had stated that all the Prodigies were receiving phones today, but I didn’t know yet their numbers to call them. It was actually pretty handy to be given these…if only I had their numbers.

Turning a corner, I stopped in my tracks, seeing the object of my carnal musings sauntering in my direction. His hooded black robe billowed out behind him, while his long legs, encased in perfectly worn denim, ate up the distance between us. Dangling from one of his hands was a black towel and his gaze was on the pool’s entrance. Watching him move, I knew why so many feared him. He was a predator by every stretch of the imagination.

And to me he looked like sex walking.

I watched as his nostrils flared. Feet faltering, his gaze immediately swung in my direction, green eyes finding me in the intimate golden lighting. He stopped moving, and his eyes flashed bright for the barest moment before he rested a shoulder against the cold, black wall. One eyebrow crooked as he cocked his head, and his eyes began to blaze with desire as they roved over me. His head straightened, and he reached out a hand, opening the door directly next to his shoulder.

Oh God, yes.

I nodded, and quickly hurried after him as he entered the room. Shutting and locking the door behind me, I saw the room was a softly lit office of sorts. Definitely a Mage’s, by the amount of gold decoration. And beautifully empty except for the sensual Vampire who was lighting the golden candles lining one wall of the small square room. There was a gold marble desk to my direct left, a row of bookshelves lining the wall to my right, and a sitting area at the end of the room with two gold and cream couches, a cream lounge couch, a golden leather chair, and a coffee table in front of the lit fireplace.

I itched my nose as Ezra blew out the long wooden match he had used to light the candles. The twinkling of firelight played across his face as he turned to me, placing the match on the long, narrow shelf of candles. As he lowered his hood, I could see his hair was mussed, but quickly forgot when he blurred, suddenly in front of me and pressing my back against the door.

Warm, strong hands ran down my sides to my hips, tiny flames leaping to life wherever he touched. Green eyes on my blue ones, his grip tightened and he lifted me, my legs automatically hooking under his robe around his waist as I grabbed his shoulders. Wide lips hovered directly in front of mine, his heated breath fanning my lips. “Is there something I can do for you, little wolf?”

“Mmm.” My lips lifted on a grin. “You can take your clothes off, for starters.”

Soft, lush lips teased closer, barely brushing mine as he spoke. “And after that?” He pressed against me enticingly, revealing his growing erection and aligning us perfectly for the act we desired.

A soft moan escaped, and I answered his question by rubbing my breasts against his chest, my eyes closing at the caress of warmth, his hard contours against my softness. “I don’t care if we’re too busy.” My lids slitted open to stare him in the eyes. “We’re gonna have to make time for this.”

His grip tightened on my hips, and he growled, “You’re the one who fell asleep last night before I got into bed.” He nipped my lower lip gently. “But I agree. Two days has been too long.” Wide lips landed on mine and began stroking with a hunger that matched my own, our lustful demands battling with each other, the push and pull intoxicating. Between our feasting at each other’s mouths, he asked, “I was looking for you. Where the hell were you?”

“With King Kincaid,” I murmured against his lips, craving his taste and his heat, our mouths quickly meshing wickedly, perfectly. Fingers shaking with the need he tirelessly inspired, I began undoing the tong buttons to his velvet robe, barely managing not to rip them off, before pushing it over his shoulders, just to have it catch at his biceps.

Resting against me more heavily, mouth never leaving mine, he tugged his robe the rest of the way off, letting it drop to the floor behind him. Heated palms landed on my thighs, kneading as they traveled to my hips, while his searing, slick tongue glided across the seam of my lips, demanding entry. Shivering in sensory pleasure, I tilted my head and opened for him. My profound groan was in concert with his as our gliding tongues invaded, rubbing sensually and making love to each other’s mouths.

Blissful moments passed as our thorough strokes altered, increasingly burning into a frantic desire of flesh-driven urgency that left both of us gasping. Breathless, and still not leaving my lips, Ezra ordered, “Don’t let go.” Clinging to him as instructed, his clever tongue plunged, returning to mine, as he pushed away from the door. I felt cool air at my back and heard items crashing to the ground as he bent, laying me on the desk now empty of office objects. Quick fingers began unbuttoning my black top as he pressed his lips firmer to mine, eating at my mouth just as hard as I was his. I whimpered as his knuckles grazed my bare skin with each button he unfastened.

My own hands journeyed, heat suffusing every nerve ending, as he began grinding his impressive cock against my sensitive core. Grabbing his billowy red shirt, I yanked it over his head, making him grunt in frustration when he had to stop his task and lift his lips from mine. He snatched the shirt from my hands, haphazardly stuffing it under my head for protection against the unforgiving marble, then his mouth instantly returned. I barely got in a breath before his tongue slid across mine, tempting me to sin.

I got my hands on his belt just as he finished with my shirt, cupping my breasts and squeezing them through my bra. He moaned, his breath rushing over my cheeks. Igniting heat traveled from the tips of my breasts to my belly, and I arched into his touch, whispering, “Ezra.”

That was when I felt his belt snap beneath my fingers.

He stilled on top of me, his dilated eyes traveling from my breasts to my wide gaze. A slow blink. “Sweetheart, that is the third belt you’ve broken this week alone.” A pause as humor entered his gaze. “I don’t even know how many that makes so far.”

I licked my lips, my gaze a smidge sheepish. “I’ll buy you more, or maybe, you could quit wearing them?”

“Not gonna happen,” he murmured, eyes journeying down to my breasts. “And I don’t think I want you shopping for me.” His thumb traveled over my bra, brushing my nipple and making me jolt under him. He grinned, his head slowly lowering. “You’d probably bring one back with a cartoon character on the buckle.”

A quick glance at my current bra, and my cheeks flushed. I was wearing one of my Shifter festive bras, this time with a bunny print. At least it wasn’t the one with animated frogs I had finally found in my drawer today. That one I really liked, but he would probably hate. “I’m sure I could manage something without the term ‘cute’ applied to it.”

He hummed in his throat — his attention caught elsewhere — no longer listening as his lips dipped to my collarbone. My own distressing reaction flew wayward as his wicked tongue danced over my skin, tickling and enticing me to bare my throat. Grabbing his hair, I tilted my head and pressed his mouth to my neck, and I felt his fangs brush my pulse before retracting without biting, as I had originally asked. Breaths coming in pants as he suckled at my neck, leisurely moving downward while his hands continued working their magic on my breasts, I tilted my face toward him.

And damn near choked on slut as I inhaled. I blinked, sniffing his hair again, making sure I had the clinging scent right. It was. A slow growl that I couldn’t contain rumbled from my chest as I remembered his mussed hair. And this growl wasn’t a nice one as my emotions spiraled. Not at all.

Ezra’s body froze on top of me as his head lifted, eyes scanning the room, misunderstanding. His gaze found mine a moment later, and his black eyebrows slammed together. Slowly, he took his hands off my breasts and placed them on the desk’s surface next to my shoulders, lifting on them so he was staring down at me. He inhaled sharply, and immediately his thick lashes hooded his gaze. “Lily?” A multitude of questions was in that one word, my name.

“You smell of slut,” I hissed, taking my hands back from his hair and sniffing them, which only made my growl intensify. Luckily for him, all I smelled was her normal scent, not her sexual fluids. Still, my emotions raged their own private battle, trying to devour me, and I tried to understand as they beat a heavy rhythm in my head and chest, stealing my very air.

A pause, his head cocking as he watched me. “You mean Jessica.”

“Same thing.” I unlatched my legs from around his waist, starting to squirm out from underneath him.

It didn’t really work since he grabbed my hips in an unbreakable hold, keeping me flush against him. “Jessica isn’t a slut.” He paused, and ignoring my growl, his face dropped to inches from my face. His eyes were on mine. Searching. Inhaling deeply, then holding the breath in, he murmured, “You’re jealous.”

Abruptly, my growl cut off. Staring up at him, I blinked repeatedly.

Was I? Was that what was causing this? Was that the emotion flaring bright?

I knew I didn’t like her scent on him, that was for fuck sure. And I sure as hell didn’t like the fact that he was with me after being in direct contact with her.

Was that jealousy? Or just pride?

Green eyes watching me carefully, Ezra softly kissed my lips. The lightest touch. Gaze steadfast on mine, his mouth hovered before lowering, pressing gentle lips to my chin. The barest of touches down my jaw. My throat. Eyes still holding mine, he nibbled down the center of my chest, ever so slowly, pressing his mouth’s warmth against my skin.

Quietly, he affirmed, “You know I’ve only had sex with you since we got back together.” Truth. His tongue dipped, beginning to create designs on my cleavage before giving my flesh an open-mouthed kiss. Breath rushing over my gradually reheating skin, he said, “I only drank from her today.” As I stayed silent, trying to figure out just what the hell I was feeling, his gaze dropped to one of my breasts. Gently, he palmed it, beginning to suckle at my pebbled nipple through the material.

My breath caught, and I grabbed a fistful of his hair, my other hand going back to his pants.

Only to have the smell of slut puff at me like a cloud of pissed-off fury, and right now, I could feel his jeans already unbuttoned, which I hadn’t gotten to doing yet.

Using great restraint, I actually withheld the growl. “Your pants are already unbuttoned.”

Ezra laved my nipple, shrugging his massive shoulders over me. “She tried to put her hand down my pants while I drank.”

Okay. The growl couldn’t be contained as I envisioned her perfect hand going for his cock, and I started shoving his shoulders. “Get the fuck off me.”

His head snapped up, not moving one damn bit as I pushed him, and again, he inhaled sharply.

I growled low, and was pissed off just enough that I shoved with my Shifter strength.

He moved that time.

Watching as he stumbled back two steps from the desk, I rolled off it, backing away from him even further and stepping on the discarded items from the desk right before my back slammed against the wall under the shelf of candles.

His eyes were hooded, and his arms were crossed, one hand over his mouth. He stood, bare chest expanding and his muscles bulging, as he inhaled slowly, green gaze carefully watching.

Cutting off the growl, I ran my hands through my hair, confused and aroused and pissed and…yes, damn jealous. And I knew he was scenting it all. Goddamn Vampire nose.

“Lily,” Ezra said quietly. “What’s going on?”

I glanced at the door, ready to bolt. I wasn’t sure I could answer his question.

He sidestepped, placing his back to said door.

Fuck.

“I don’t know,” I muttered, glancing around the room and scratching my nose, only to yank my hand away when it left the remnants of slut there. I growled, glaring at my hand. And told the truth. “I don’t like her scent on you.” My eyes glowed. “And I sure as hell,” I growled even lower, sounding scary to my own ears as I rubbed my palms on my pants, “don’t like the idea of her hands that close to your fucking cock.” My mouth slammed shut, growl cut off.

Dear God. I sounded like a bitter wife.

Silence.

I didn’t look anywhere near him.

A very long freaking minute passed in stillness before he moved from the door, his broken belt jingling as he moved a few feet closer and stopped to sit on the edge of the desk, reclining on straight arms. He unbent his legs and crossed his ankles, staring down at his boots.

“You’ve never been jealous before.” His gaze found my face. I could feel it even though I wasn’t looking directly at him. “You know I drink daily. You know sometimes the women, and occasionally the men, try to get physical with me.” A pause. “It’s practically the same damn circumstance when all those Shifters flock to you. And believe me, sweetheart, they aren’t always there for simple comfort.” He wasn’t lying. Half the time, I had to maneuver away from friendly hands. He cracked his neck. “So, what the hell’s this about?”

I cracked my own neck, rolling my shoulders, and moved away from the wall, heading toward the bookcase across the room. It would give me something to look at besides his unbelievable, half-bare build. Stopping in front of the books, which all looked the same, I mumbled, “I don’t know.” Fuck me, if that wasn’t the truth.

There was only quiet behind me until Ezra stated dryly, “You’ve got to give me more than that to go on.”

Closing my eyes in resignation, I turned and opened them to meet his gaze slowly. His was as guarded as mine. His body appeared deceptively at ease, his posture of someone inviting candor, but his muscles were fairly vibrating they were so tense. I eyed him, trying to work through this.

Going on facts alone, I reasoned it out. During our time together, not-so-gradually my interest in any other partner had completely diminished. When we had been on our break, it had hurt like a son of a bitch when I had found out about his other partners. I had only continued sleeping with Finn because I was pissed off and confused. And there was the incident with Rose’s dog when I hadn’t liked her near him. Hell, I couldn’t even imagine finding someone I would want more in my bed than Ezra. And all the while, I had been having more sex with Ezra, spending every spare moment I could with him.

And it hit me, like a bullet of pounding awareness through the brain.

Oh, Jesus.

My breath caught and my gaze jumped away from him.

“What?” Ezra asked instantly.

I started pacing in front of the bookshelves, rubbing my nose every time I neared the fireplace, so I stayed clear of it. Its smell was bugging the shit out of me when Ezra wasn’t near and his scent permeating my senses. I sighed and stopped in the middle of the room, facing him. “Okay, you and I…” I fidgeted with my open shirt, staring down at it. “Would it be…” Oh hell, this was fucking hard to say.

Ezra kept silent, his gaze making me even more nervous.

Finally, I blurted, “We’ve never had ‘the talk’, Ezra.” My hands fluttered a little before I started yanking them through my hair while I wondered if this was a bad idea. “You know?”

He held my gaze. “The talk?” He spoke like it was foreign to him, tasting the word’s newness.

I sighed heavily. How the hell else do I explain it? Wringing my hands, I studied my shoes. “Like…we never talked about…whether or not we would have other lovers while we were sleeping together.” When he stilled completely, I stated hurriedly, “I don’t want that. Or, what I mean is, I don’t want us sleeping with other people.” Fuck, I was flustered.

Running my hands through my hair, I continued blundering through what I was trying to say. “I want to be…exclusive.” I nodded. That was what I wanted to say. “Exclusion. I want it stated in mutual understanding that’s where we are, instead of just…happening. I want to know for a fact that you aren’t out there kissing or touching or fucking someone else. And I don’t want someone else doing any of that to you.”

I pointed at myself. “I can honestly say I don’t want anyone else doing that to me. But right now, as we stand, either one of us could go out and fuck someone else, and the other person would have no viable reason to be upset, because we’ve never actually talked about it.” My eyes, which had been wandering, darted to his. And stayed there. I really wanted to look away, but I wanted to gauge his reaction more.

He didn’t show a damn thing. “Exclusion?”

Curtly, I nodded. I had already asked it. Might as well see where this goes.

“As in,” his head tilted to the side, “you no longer fuck anyone but me?”

I nodded. Crude, but true. “Yes. And you no longer fuck anyone but me.” I had to clarify that.

His head fell back, exposing his throat as he gazed at the ceiling. I stared. He definitely wasn’t calm. I didn’t even have to listen to his heartbeat to know that. It was actually visible in the wild pulse at his throat.

When he stayed silent, my heart rate doubled in worry, and I asked quickly, “Would it really be so bad to be together-together?” I shook my head, throwing my arms wide. “Hell, we practically are already. It’s just…happening. All I want is for you to say you won’t sleep with anyone else.” I paused, then made myself say, “Well, unless you break it off with me first.” I was proud the words came out louder than a whisper, because I sure as hell didn’t want him breaking it off.

Gaze dropping from the ceiling, he ran a hand over his face. “Sweetheart, calm down.” His words were quiet, calm, when neither of us were. “I understand what you’re saying.” His green gaze met mine steadily. “It’s not that I haven’t thought before about bringing this topic up with us.” My heart stalled, hearing that. His smile was soft, his head slightly cocking. “I’ve been without my mate longer than you have yours, and I’ve been staring at that damn crack longer than you have. So I’m,” he lifted his hand, rolling a finger, “further along in the process than you are.”

“Oh.” I tried to keep my jaw from gaping. “Why haven’t you said anything then?” As soon as the words were out of my mouth, realization dawned. He didn’t want it. My breathing hitched, and I glanced at the door again. “Fuck, my ignorance surprises even me sometimes.”

Quietly, he growled, “It’s not what you’re thinking, so don’t even think about running.”

My gaze snapped to his. His head was tilted down, his eyes staring at me with clear intent. If I made a move for the door, he was planning to stop me. “Okay…explain, please.”

He stared at me for a few beats longer, his eyes assessing. I tried to appear at ease, as if I didn’t want to run from him saying he didn’t want me, and placed my hands in my pockets, rocking back on my heels. Eh, no problem. He sighed, leaning back on the desk, even though his eyes didn’t waver from me, not buying my act.

Gradually he spoke, as if he were gauging my reaction to each of his words. “When I first really started contemplating the idea of a real relationship between us,” his lips thinned, “it was shortly before we lost our baby boy and girl.” My own lips pinched, air slowly exhaling through my nose at the reminder of our loss, while I watched as his chest heaved, his own head falling for a moment before he rolled it on his shoulders, glancing back up to me. “After that,” he sighed, shaking his head, “I didn’t know what the fuck to do.”

“We were lost,” I whispered, my hands clenching in my pockets. “Afraid of reality.”

“Exactly,” he rumbled, standing, his hands instantly going into his pockets, which dragged his jeans lower on his hips. This time, he began pacing. “And when we did get back together, I was still scared shitless, but I knew I wanted to be with you.” His predator growled low. “But as far as the thought of exclusion goes, it’s the ‘what-ifs’ that are killing me.”

I backed away, my eyebrows furrowing in confusion as I watched him stalk up and down the bookcases as I had. His head was lowered and his shoulders were hunched. The muscles in his arms bulged, and his jaw was clenched. He appeared like a man torn.

I was startled to feel hope bloom amongst my fear of losing him. Hope for another man. Someone besides Dominic. Someone I didn’t want others touching. Hell, I didn’t even want them looking at him, or him gazing at them, hungry for all his attention directed at me. And it freaked me out only a little.

He stopped unexpectedly after a full couple of minutes of quiet, taking a hand out of his pocket to rub the back of his neck, his eyes coming to me, then away, as he said quietly, “I don’t know if I can do exclusion.” He paused, green eyes finding mine and staying this time. “And I don’t know if you can, either.”

I stiffened at his implication, and seeing it, he shook his head, explaining, “It’s one huge ‘what-if’, since I know we wouldn’t give our word on it.” He was right. A Mystical’s word bound them magically to what they said, but for him and me…it would feel like cheating — demeaning us — when we had never had to use magic to make us…us. Our relationship had always been about love, trust, and respect. When I didn’t argue with his assumption, he nodded his head once, as if he knew I wouldn’t. “So there would be no damn magic to keep us from being turned on by someone else.”

He threw his arms wide, his eyes flashing. “I can smell your arousal when someone else tempts you.” His eyes flashed again, his voice rising. “I have no clue what type of man I would become if we were really together and I scented that on you again.” A finger-point at himself. “It’s uncharted territory for me.” His finger swung my way. “And you.” He started pacing again, running a hand through his hair before stuffing it back into his pocket.

Covertly, I scented the air, getting the vibe of his rant. And sneezed, rubbing my nose. The action was odd enough that Ezra stopped in his tracks and glanced at me. I pointed at the fireplace. “The fire’s bugging me.” But, on the plus side, I had caught a whiff of something from him as he let his true feeling show.

Possessiveness.

He nodded and resumed pacing, his head lowering again, not showing his features.

Carefully, I stated, “It wouldn’t have to be a relationship-relationship if you didn’t want that. It could be only an expansion of what we already are.” That might make him feel better.

He growled. It was Vampire.

Guess not.

He continued his trek for another few minutes until rumbling, “Even if we did this, there are other things that could be an issue.” Again, he ran a hand through his hair. Clearing his throat, he stopped to rest his shoulder against a bookcase. Green eyes met mine straight on. “And I don’t want you to find them offensive.”

Oh. Boy. When a man started like that, it was always offensive. “Do your worst.” I was proud I didn’t snarl.

His gaze landed on my breasts.

Lingered.

Instantly, crossing my arms and feeling self-conscious, I did snarl, “I know they’re not big and perfect like your slut’s, but they’re fucking mine, so don’t you dare say anything rude.” That, I could not take.

He muttered, “Jessica is not a slut.”

I snorted.

Ignoring me, he gestured to my breasts and hips, saying, “I honestly find your assets perfect over anyone else’s, and I can’t stand how you hide them under bulky t-shirts, cargos, and albeit adorable, but still immature lingerie.” He glanced at my now wide eyes, and then back to my chest. “I’m a Vampire, sweetheart. I like sexy and seductive.” A single eyebrow rose. “And cartoon characters and baby animals are not that.”

I immediately started fumbling with the buttons on my ‘bulky’ top over my ‘immature’ lingerie, and through gritted teeth, I asked, “And?”

“Bondage,” he stated evenly.

My fingers froze before I even got one buttoned. Oh, dear Lord. “Bondage?” Yeah, it came out a squeak. “As in kinky fetishes with,” my hands fluttered about as I looked up at him, “whips, melted candle wax, balls that go in your mouth, chains, and masks?” I shivered, and not in a good way.

His eyes ran over my face, and he rubbed the back of his neck. “Again, I’m a Vampire. I enjoy all acts carnal.”

I blinked.

I wasn’t sure I could do that. Nor did I want to. Visions of what he was talking about filled my head, and I whispered, “Trapped.” He may be a Vampire, but I was mainly Shifter, dammit.

He froze, staring. “Alright,” he said slowly, my freaked expression obviously coming across clearly. “Maybe,” he paused, “we could start with simple fur-lined handcuffs.”

Instant. “No blindfolds?” Jesus, I was seriously sweating. I wiped my brow.

His nostrils flared as he watched the movement, and he instantly nodded. “If that would make you feel more comfortable in the beginning.”

I nodded, and tried to catch my breath. Just handcuffs. I’m sure they wouldn’t be silver. Anything else I could break out of. Sure, no biggie.

I hoped.

“And, my last issue.” His gaze traveled to my slowing pulse. “I would want to bite you while we’re having sex.”

Oddly, that I had a real issue with. “Ezra, I want to feel sex while I’m having it, not be under a damn mind hold.”

His lips parted slightly as his gaze stayed glued to my pulse, and very slowly his fangs descended. Just a bit. “You have no idea what I can do.” His gaze darted to mine, and then back to my throat. “There are different levels I can put you through, some definitely more conscious than others. And all extremely pleasurable.”

Hmm. I crossed my arms. That hadn’t been in the books I’d learned from.

“That’s what I’d need from an exclusive partner.” He licked his lips, dragging his eyes away from my throat, his fangs retracting. Again, his eyes flashed. “Well, that, and the ever elusive fidelity without magic.” His jaw slowly clenched, but he didn’t hide his expression from me this time. He was very much on the fence about this.

Time to put him more on the fence. “I have a few needs of my own you’re not meeting.” With all his demands, a few of mine had come to mind.

His eyes widened in blatant disbelief.

It was hard not to laugh at his expression, but I pointed to the robe lying by the door. “Your clothes bug the shit out of me.” My eyes went below waist level where I could still see him rock hard beneath his jeans. That, I more than loved, but I wanted to see…

“Your ass.” On their own accord, my hands made a gentle squeezing motion at butt height. “You have the perfect ass.” I dragged my eyes to his gaze, which was now cocky with the compliment. “And you cover it with your damn Vampire attire. I don’t mind the robe, but surely there’s something you can wear to not hide your assets.” Hell, my gaze roamed over his chest and arms…and lower. “And leather. I wouldn’t mind seeing it,” my hand gestured to his lower half in a grand circle, “in leather.”

Yeah.

“And?” he drawled, resting further against the bookcase, obviously not minding being the object of my ogling. In fact, he was damn near preening like a peacock as I continued my perusal, lifting his arms and clutching the framework on the upper shelf. Jesus, he was even sucking in, making his eight pack show in sharp relief as he widened his stance.

I patted the air. “Down, boy. Down.”

He chuckled softly, but didn’t move from the position, sadly, because my eyes didn’t stop traveling over his fuck-a-licious body.

When I decided my staring and panting were becoming embarrassing, I cleared my throat and made myself look away. And my eyes darted around in surprise, seeing I was now standing directly in front of him. He hadn’t moved, but I had. Oh, goodness. I stumbled back a few steps, mumbling, “Well, you know…just a little finetuning to your clothes.”

“Uh-huh,” he murmured softly, taking a step, following me as his thumbs hooked into the top of his pants.

My gaze followed the motion, his happy trail showing a goodly amount and beginning to move into dangerous territory. Fumbling around for a straight thought about whatever else I wanted to say, I took another step back.

Again, he followed. Stalked. Closing a little more the distance between us.

I pointed a finger against his chest, keeping it there and taking another step back.

Didn’t help.

He gently brushed my finger away and removed the gap between us.

And then I remembered what else I wanted to say, and I practically shouted, “Sex!”

Grinning, he whispered, “Yes, please.”

My mouth opened to argue, but he wrapped his arm around my waist and kicked his leg out and around, knocking the backs of my knees and efficiently making me fall. He fell with me while I squealed — like a girl — as we toppled backward. The wind rushed behind me for all of a second before his grip tightened and he caught me, laying me gently on the lounge couch we had landed on.

I blubbered, “That’s not what I meant, dammit.” I smacked his shoulder for the sake of it.

“But that’s what I meant,” he rumbled, his face going to my neck and biting gently. I was still catching my stunned breath as he lifted on the arm that had taken all of our weight in the fall, his lips against mine as he stated bluntly, “We can figure all this other shit out later. Right now I want my cock buried deep in that sweet, little cunt of yours.” His voice was a low rumble, vibrating against my mouth. “I want to hear you screaming my name in pleasure. I want to feel and see when you lose control.” Leisurely, he licked my bottom lip. “There’s nothing better than when you cum.”

His delicious scent and rough words enveloped me, and again, I almost forgot my point.

As he pressed more of his weight on me, I jerked my head to the side, away from his tempting lips that were moving in for the kill, and I stated, “No, not later, Ezra. We need to talk about sex. I’ve got a few kinks of my own.”

Finished resting his cock against my very aroused flesh, only our thin clothes separating us, the heat amazing, he hummed in question as he began nibbling on my ear.

I blinked repeatedly, trying to stay focused. “Outside. I want you to chase me,” I paused, and amended, “I’ll probably need a head start because you’re so fast, but I want that. Want the thrill of the hunt, the foreplay. And I want to chase and hunt you, too.” I swallowed the groan that wanted to emerge as he ran his fingers down my exposed side, sliding his hand behind me to grab my ass and press me harder against his erection. “And I want to have sex in the woods. Against a tree. On the leaves. The grass. Under the moon.”

Ezra paused, head lifting, his eyebrows together. “You want us to fuck outside like wild animals…” He trailed off, his mouth swiftly clamping shut as my eyes narrowed.

“Shifter, remember?” I spoke as nicely as I possibly could, since his eyes were growing as big as saucers at the reality looming. “Candles, satin sheets, and four walls with a roof are perfectly wonderful most of the time,” I shrugged lightly underneath him, “just not all the time.”

He cleared his throat hard, probably appearing as nervous as I had when he mentioned his bondage issue. Vampires didn’t like being out in the open; it left them defenseless during a vulnerable moment like sex. They liked it dark and closed off and protected. “The woods?”

I smiled at him gently, running my fingers over his crinkled forehead. “Maybe at first we could find a little nook and use a sleeping bag.”

He swallowed, the tension faintly easing from his features. “Right. That wouldn’t be so bad.” He paused. “A tent would be better.”

“Ezra…,” I grumbled.

A moment’s pause, then he nodded jerkily. “Right. I understand.” Features still tight, he asked, “Anything else?”

Yeah, there was. And I hesitated voicing it because it was part of who he was. Nibbling on my lip, my eyes darted back and forth between his now guarded ones, and finally, I blurted, “When you’re drinking, I would appreciate you not giving your donors any carnal vibes.” I wasn’t stupid or selfish enough to ask that he only drink off men. If he started doing that it would definitely be suspicious, not to mention, it would limit his choices.

“I get that.” A long pause as he languidly blinked. “That it?”

I stifled my sigh of relief when he didn’t argue that one, especially since he felt like pure stone on top of me as he tried to play it cool. “Yes.” I nodded. “That’s it.”

The air rushed past his lips and over my face, his mouth landing on mine with bruising force. The caress definitely wasn’t tender or kind. It was more of a taking. An invading and plundering of my very will.

As one hand pressed my core against his erection, his other hand wound its way into my hair, gripping it tight and tilting my head. I gasped at the demand of his possession, and he took the opportunity given. His tongue seized my open mouth, gliding against mine. And conquered as he left not one crevice untouched with the demanding strokes of his inventive tongue. Lost to his clever touch, I whimpered, my knees running along his sides as I opened for him, and my hands sliding over his sexy-as-fuck ass, then grabbing tight and pulling him snug.

“Sweetheart,” he growled, grinding against me, creating a thrumming rapid fire to my belly.

“Hmm?” I breathed absently, running my fingers around his pants’ waistline.

He lifted his hips for my drifting hands, giving me access to slide them between us, even as he bit and licked down my jaw.

My hands swiftly finding their destination, I unzipped his pants.

Stopped. Remembered that his button had already been undone by the slut. I sucked in a breath, sane thoughts returning like a sledge hammer. We hadn’t resolved a damn thing.

“Let me bite you.” His fangs were descended as he grazed them over my throat lightly. He growled softly. “Fuck, sweetheart. Please.”

I breathed shallowly and tried to squirm out from underneath him, moving a few inches up on the couch and placing my index finger against his lips. “Ezra, it’s not that, I—”

He cut me off. “Good.” He bit down on my finger. With his fang.

I gasped, my eyes flying wide at the action. He pulled hard, sucking my finger further into his warm, moist mouth. I sank onto the sofa, my eyes hooding as my body came alive with pleasure. A guttural groan that was half woman, half wolf slipped passed my lips as I, none too gently, raked my free hand’s nails down his back, hearing him moan at the tiny hurt, until I got to his ass. Sliding my hand under his jeans and boxer briefs to his heated skin, I took a firm hold of a perfect globe and didn’t let go.

This was different.

I could still appreciate everything around me. If fact, I didn’t want to close my eyes. No part of me wanted to lay docile. I could feel everything, which was mainly the fucking huge erection sliding against me as Ezra re-positioned himself to where I had moved. Most assuredly, this was no unconscious encounter.

His mind hold felt like slow, pleasure-filled flames licking across my breasts, which I brushed against his chest, adoring the added contact. It was a fanning to the flame that already existed inside my belly, making me tremble further in desire. And it was the sensual glide of heat against my intimate folds, which I rubbed against his erection.

Green eyes dilated even more, darkening, as he took another pull on my finger and watched my reaction, the heat in his gaze just as potent as his mind hold.

I whispered, “That’s nice.” Understatement.

The corners of his lips lifted around my finger at my simple, polite words, his eyes taking on a mischievous cast as he sucked again, cheeks hollowing with the act.

His mind hold changed.

My eyes damn near crossed as I cried out, “Holy mother!” I choked, my neck arching as those previous gentle flames arrowed straight to my core, finding every nook and cranny, and licking and filling me in a possessive sensual thrust. “Jesus fucking Christ!” Gasping in delectable indulgence, I gazed up at him, undulating against him in luxury.

His green eyes alight with desire and self-confidence, his attention was unwavering as he hummed softly in his throat. Bit by bit, he raised his head, my finger sliding out of his mouth slowly, and his tongue grazed my tiny wound. He said softly, “That was only a little taste.”

I cleared my throat, trying to come down from the inferno he had set off inside of me, which didn’t work so well as my body screamed for completion.

A tiny smile graced his exotic features, before he inhaled deeply, his grin growing larger.

Uh-huh. He could most definitely smell my arousal since I could scent how turned on I was. His hand slid from my ass, fingers trailing along my trembling flesh to my stomach, and he started unbuttoning my pants as his head lowered and his tongue dipped under my bra line. I blinked furiously as his hand plunged beneath my underwear, his fingers slipping through my folds.

He groaned against my cleavage. “God, I love how wet you get.”

“Ezra…,” I panted, as his other hand skimmed behind my back to my bra’s clasp. I shook my head hard, then thumped my forehead a few times with the heel of my palm when he started circling my clit with the pad of his finger. “We need to…” I cleared my throat hard, not remembering what we needed to do, sucking in air.

That’s what did it. The deep inhale of slut. Instantly, my wolf took voice, and I growled low and full of menace, my eyes glowing in rage. Ezra’s gaze collided with mine, and I hissed, “You fucking reek of slut!”

His mouth opened, and I slammed a hand over it. “If you say one more time that the woman I saw enter a bedroom with four other Vamp men is not a slut, I’m going to slap you fucking silly.” His eyes narrowed, and I knew he was going to argue. Hell, he’d probably been one of those four men before. I growled again, fury enveloping me as her scent wafted from his hair to my sensitive nose. “We’re so not doing this right now.”

Arched brows slammed together, and he pulled his hand out of my pants to knock my palm away from his mouth. “Do I need to take a fucking bath so you’ll quit with the hysterics?”

For that comment, I thumped him on his own forehead this time, then shoved him off me, very much enjoying the satisfying thud and grunt he made as he hit the hard wood flooring beside the couch. Quickly clipping my bra, which he had managed to undo, and zipping my pants, I rolled to my side and saw green eyes flashing in anger up at me where he had landed. I explained as passively as I could manage, “We aren’t doing a damn thing until this whole exclusive situation is decided.”

His jaw hung open.

It was actually adorable. Kind of endearing, really.

Until he decided to speak.

He sputtered on a rising shout, “You’re fucking turning me down?”

I stared down at him. Hmm. To go along with all that ferocity and desire etching his face, he now appeared incredulous. My, my. “You’ve never been told no before, have you?”

Blurring to his feet, standing at his full, imposing height, he growled, “No. I have not.”

I sat up, bones languid, but my body and skin were still on fire for him. “You just sounded like a stuck-up prig.” He froze, eyes going wide. I gestured to the door. “There’s a first time for everything, Casanova. Consider this yours.”

He didn’t move.

“Seriously, Ezra. I’m not doing anything sexual with you until we’re exclusive.”

He slashed a hand in the direction of his erection, hissing, “And in the meantime, what the fuck am I supposed to do with this?”

My lips twitched. Oh, God. “I’m sure you can,” I paused, “handle it.”

His cheeks flushed with undisguised hostility.

I ignored it and started buttoning my top, ready to get the hell out of there before he started seducing me again. I wasn’t sure I was strong enough to withstand another round.

“And what about you?”

My fingers froze on the buttons. Even though I had never heard that tone from him before, I knew what it was. That musically growled question had been his predator’s voice.

Very damn cautiously, I peeked up, not making any sudden movements. My heart rate pounded rapidly at what I saw. Fangs fully extended and eyes glowing, he watched me from under his lashes. His tone magnetic, though scary as fuck, he asked, “How do you plan to relieve the pressure?” He took two gliding steps toward me, so smoothly he seemed to float, and his head cocked. “Do you plan to find Finn or Merrick?”

Swallowing gently, and absolutely not moving, I whispered, “No. I don’t plan to find a different bed partner tonight.” His head tilted the other way, the movement extremely Vampire. Motionless, I waited in the quiet for a response, but when he didn’t move for a full minute and none came, I realized I hadn’t answered his questions fully. “I plan to handle it myself.”

Green eyes glowed even brighter, basically spotlighting my crotch when his gaze flew there. Still, I didn’t move as he stared. Finally, a half-minute later, he ran a hand over his face, and when he peered up into my eyes, his weren’t glowing anymore. But they were hungrier than shit, apparently knowing what I was going to do, turning him on to fever pitch.

As if he hadn’t even realized he’d gone all Vampire-terrifying, he murmured, “Let me watch.” His gaze was lit only with heat and desire. “I won’t touch you, I’ll only…” Again, he motioned to his bulging pants.

I blinked, grasping…Oh, shit…When he’d gone all loco, it had been him jealous. The scent of his possessiveness still hung in the air. I gulped, wondering if he had been right. This was uncharted territory for us. Jealousy wasn’t something either of us were used to. With mates, you knew they were faithful, thanks to the magic. And anyone else we hadn’t given a damn about. And he, obviously, did give a damn about me, like I did him.

When I sat silent for a few beats too long, he asked softly, “Sweetheart?” He bent at the waist to look me in the eye, only to wince and stand straight again.

I licked my dry lips and shook my head, staying strong on what I knew I wanted, even if he was freakily frightening. “No. If we’re exclusive, then I’d be more than happy to do that for you.” Another shake of my head. “But not tonight.”

He cursed, turning his back to me and crossing his arms, giving me a great view of his ass. Hormones nowhere near diminished from his little Vampire act, I had to close my eyes so I didn’t tug him back on top of me. He asked on a growl, “What if I decide a real relationship isn’t best for us? What happens then?”

Keeping my eyes closed against the scenery, I told the only truth available to us after feeling this way for him. “We go back to being just friends. To how we were before.”

He cursed again even more harshly, and I heard him moving away. I chanced opening my eyes. He was at the desk, grabbing his shirt and jerking it on over his head. Leaving his belt dangling, he zipped and buttoned his pants with a growl, then grimaced as he picked up his robe and towel off the floor. Hand on the doorknob, he glanced at me, his eyes flashing bright green. And continued glowing. Again, his voice harmoniously low and fangs extended, he probed, “Swear to fucking God you’re not going to Finn or Merrick or some other damn schmuck tonight?”

Freezing in place, most definitely seeing his predator make another appearance, I replied honestly, “I’m not going to visit any other person to fulfill my needs tonight.” Carefully, I raised my hand, waggling my fingers. “Just myself.” I held my breath as he stared me down.

After at least a half-minute of stillness, his lashes lowered lazily. When they lifted, his eyes were green. Normal green. Rubbing the back of his neck, he muttered, “Fucking shit.” Then he was outside the door before I could track him, slamming it closed so viciously that I watched as a crack webbed its way in the golden paint from the doorframe to the ceiling.

Staring at the closed door, I sucked air, breathing in an echo, “Fucking shit.”

What the hell had I gotten myself into?

I groaned, letting my head fall into my hands. I was left high and dry, and had just possibly awoken a predator of epic proportions if he couldn’t get himself under control. I wasn’t even going to think about my own predator. Hell, I wanted to leave the room right now and hunt.

For Jessica.

Mumbling to myself, I criticized, “Lily Ruckler, this may have been the stupidest thing you’ve ever done.” I pounded my forehead against my hands, sighing heavily when it didn’t clear the bloodlust any for Jessica. “Shit.” I stood from the couch.

And instantly fell to my knees.

Shaking my head, I placed a hand on the ground, trying to breathe through the lust that had bizarrely turned my body to jelly, which I was thankful for since it was overriding what I would have liked to do to Jessica. His mind hold had definitely taken a toll. Spending a good five minutes on the ground, I tried for calming breaths, sneezing sporadically. Ezra’s scent was dissipating and that damn fireplace was tickling my nose.

Wiping my free hand on my pants, I rubbed my nose once it didn’t stink of slut so badly. Gingerly, I got to my feet and stayed there for a full minute, feeling dizzy and aching everywhere he had touched. Rolling my head on my shoulders and windmilling my arms a few times, sneezing twice more, I made my wobbly legs move and started blowing out the candles he had lit in the room. As I began picking up the items that had been knocked to the floor, I noticed my hands were shaking.

I stopped and stared at my hand, watching it tremble in front of my face. Well, that was a new one. Pathetic, really. It was like Ezra withdrawal or something. I growled and picked up the pace, wanting to get out of this literally odd-smelling room.

Then I paused with a specific item in my hand.

A brown leather book.

I knew this book. But previously it had been glowing golden. Antonio’s book.

Scanning the room again, I groaned. Fuck, this was his frigging office. Not even curious about what was inside, nor stupid enough to chance reading from it, I placed it on his desk.

Only to sneeze.

And freeze with a damning thought.

My senses were wacked without Ezra in here distracting me with his touch and scent. I was shaking and wanted to growl. The symptoms were all there. But, God no…

Deliberately, I rose, lifting a pencil from the desk. Dread began to fill me as I walked toward the lounge couch we had been on only minutes before. I sneezed again, my whole body beginning to vibrate. Taking a calming breath, I chucked the pencil at the fireplace.

As if in slow motion, I watched it fly end over end through the air.

It bounced off thin air, that area a dot of golden magic as the pencil fell to the floor.

I felt the blood drain from my face. Oh, dear Lord above.

Beginning to hyperventilate, I whispered, “Drop it, Antonio.”

He had done this once before. Snuck up on us, while we had been sleeping in Ezra’s bed, before my surprise funneling attempt. It had wreaked havoc on my senses then, the same as it was doing now. But this time, Ezra and I had been doing much more than sleeping. If Antonio was in this room, hidden behind a Mage spell, there could only be one reason why.

Holding my breath, I waited.

It didn’t take long.

A too large fucking golden bubble appeared before my eyes, encasing a fourth of the room, an edge only a few feet in front of me.

Then it was gone. The room as it should be.

Dizziness rushed over me as I began gasping for air, very nearly on the verge of fainting.

Directly in front of me, standing at the fireplace, was Antonio. To his right, sitting on the far couch, was Elder Merrick. To his left, on another couch, was Elder Jacobs. Directly to my left, which I could see only from the corner of my eye, sitting on the gold leather chair, was the fourth to their group. Elder Zeller.

Ezra’s dad.

I was pretty sure I whimpered as I swayed on weak legs.

Mutely, they stared.

I gasped, my vision blurring. An excuse! Goddamn it, think of a fucking reasonable excuse! My mouth flapped a few times in an attempt to obey my frantic thoughts as I desperately sought plausible scenarios that might actually fit this predicament. Shit!

Antonio pinched the bridge of his nose, as if he had a Com migraine. “Lil, don’t even bother.”

Snapping my mouth shut, I stuffed my shaking hands in my pockets.

I was well and truly caught.

His hand dropped to his side, and his gaze returned to mine, as he growled, “You couldn’t sense us until now?” He was mighty upset.

I sputtered for a few seconds, then cleared my throat, trying again. “I was distracted.”

Elder Jacobs replied dryly, “So we noticed.”

I still hadn’t looked at Ezra’s dad. Nor did I really want to. But, I did — carefully — ask the infuriated Mage, “Why didn’t you tell us you were in here?” Peeping Toms!

Antonio bristled. Uh-oh. “You sneak into my damn office and ask me why I didn’t show myself?” He stalked forward, and I moved backward. Best to keep a safe distance.

But still… “Yes.”

He stopped dead in his tracks at my response, clenching and unclenching his fists, and jerked his head toward Ezra’s dad. “We were having a private discussion we didn’t want others overhearing when Ezra walked in. He wanted to see how badly you two were lying to him.” A pause. “Then the whole situation turned,” another head tilt at Cahal, “and he wanted to know his son’s decision.”

He ran a hand over his face, suddenly appearing tired. “I’m going to have to buy a new lounge couch.” My face flamed so hot it had to match my hair. He pointed over my head. “And Ezra’s fixing that crack and anything else he broke by throwing my things about.”

I nodded quickly, watching him warily. Right now, he was running hot and cold.

He shook his head, muttering, “I seriously didn’t want to see that.” He glanced at the desk and the couch, making my flush stay bright. “You need to work on your willpower, kiddo. He played you like a fucking fiddle. I thought we were going to have to watch the whole damn thing,” he shuddered, “to its conclusion.”

I choked, turning my gaze from him, entirely mortified. This resulted with my eyes landing directly on Ezra’s dad. I froze as my gaze collided with his. Antonio didn’t seem to notice as he rambled on about burning his precious candles, and so on and so forth, striding back to the fireplace and muttering to himself.

Ezra’s dad rested with his elbow on the arm of the chair, two fingers propping his chin up as he regarded me with a blank expression.

I had no clue what to say to the man. To any of them, as the room went mute again. An apology seemed ridiculous since I wasn’t, in fact, sorry. Denying the action was just ludicrous. Telling them it wouldn’t happen again wasn’t an honest way to start with a clean slate since, if Ezra wanted to be exclusive, it very much would happen.

Into the strained silence, my face still flaming bright, Elder Merrick drawled, “I do believe I’m going to have to watch my back for a few days.” His chuckle was gravelly. “It could be fun.”

My gaze wasn’t going anywhere from Cahal’s, even when Elder Jacobs mumbled, “And your front and sides.” A pause. “And from below and above.”

Silence extended again after their humor during my undignified experience.

Time sluggishly ticked away as I awaited my fate. No great outcome came to mind.

Finally, Cahal deigned to speak, and still in no hurry, he enquired casually, “You have nothing to say?”

I cleared my throat. Actually, I did. “This was all my fault.” Cahal’s gaze never wavered from mine, even if blank. I straightened my shoulders. “I originally seduced Ezra.” Pulling my hands out of my pockets, I extended them in supplication. “He’s more like an innocent party.”

That did get a reaction. Just not from who I wanted.

Elder Merrick made a gurgling noise.

Antonio sighed heavily.

Elder Jacobs’s jaw fell open.

And Cahal just blinked once — no change.

Again, I cleared my throat, ‘cause I had to keep trying. “Really.” I pointed at myself. “It was me who initiated it.” Kind of the truth. I was the one who had been caught ogling his lips and ass. “There’s no reason for you to be upset with your son.” I had no clue what his dad would do to him, but it sure as hell wouldn’t be all warm and fuzzy.

Ignoring the other three, who appeared to be choking, fainting, or possibly dead, Cahal lifted his chin from his fingers and folded his hands across his flat stomach. Reclining further on the chair, and also ignoring everything I had said, he stated bluntly, “You two lied to me.”

Gulping, I nodded once. “Yes.”

He stared, dark eyes fathomless. “You two share a bedroom?”

With my thoughts quickly assessing what had been said earlier, my lips pinched. “Yes.”

“He was the father of your twins?”

My nostrils flared. Oh, God. “Yes.”

His head cocked. “He said they were a boy and girl. How did he know this?”

Lie. “A guess,” I stated evenly, keeping my eyes firmly off Elder Merrick, knowing he would sense the fib. Bindi was a good doctor and I didn’t want to get her in trouble.

Cahal’s thumbs started ticking together, and I realized it was to the cadence of my heartbeat. “Other than the five of us in this room, who else knows about your relationship?”

Sweat began to bead on my forehead. “No one to worry about.”

His lips curled cruelly. “Who, Ms Ruckler?”

My lips stayed firmly shut, watching him warily. As soon as I saw the very beginnings of his eyes glowing, I quickly dropped my gaze. Anger and fear overtook my emotions. The fucker had been about to mind trap me into telling him.

He chuckled quietly. “Maybe there is some intelligence in that brain of yours.” Still with the soft chuckling. “But I will have that answer.”

It was my only choice on how the situation was dealt. Asshole. “King Venclaire knows.” He could handle Ezra’s dad the best out of the few others who knew. I only felt slightly guilty handing over his name.

He hummed. “Interesting.” He paused. “How did he figure this out?”

My lips lifted on their own accord, glancing up at him. “He’s smarter than the rest.”

He watched me, eyes roaming over my features. “Is he the only one?”

“Yes.” I kept my heart rate steady, having to take a chance Elder Merrick wouldn’t blab.

I jolted when my new cell phone in my pocket began ringing. Not sure what to do during this inquisition, I only lifted it from my pocket, trying to figure out where the ignore button was, but Cahal stated, “Answer it.” Well, guess that made up my mind.

I flipped it open. “Hello?”

“You’re not back in our room yet,” Ezra growled over the line, apparently having better luck tracking down cell phone numbers than I’d had. “You said you were going to handle your issue yourself, but you’re not here doing it.” He sounded all kinds of put out. “Where the fuck are you?”

My gaze lifted over Cahal’s shoulder, thanking God that King Kincaid had told me the phones were spelled so no Vamps could overhear what the caller was saying. Go Shifter paranoia. “I got held up.”

“If it’s not important,” Cahal’s lips were pinched slightly, probably because he couldn’t eavesdrop, “hang the fucking phone up.”

But I knew instantly the spell didn’t go both ways when there was dead silence over the line, before Ezra asked quietly, “Where are you, sweetheart?”

“I have to go,” I stated evenly. I hung up without another word. My phone instantly rang again, but when I couldn’t find the damn button to ignore the call, I stuffed it in my pocket with it still ringing. Eyes steadfast on Cahal, I murmured, “Sorry.” The ringing stopped, only to start again instantly. “It’s new, I don’t know how to shut it—” I jerked, my voice silenced when the door slammed open behind me.

Everyone’s gaze, including my own, snapped in that direction.

Ezra stood in the doorway, nostrils flared, his green eyes instantly doing a sweep over my person before traveling over everyone in the room, his gaze honed and assessing as he snapped his cell phone shut next to his leg and placed it in his pocket in an efficient motion. My phone instantly stopped ringing, and I realized that was how he had found me — by the ringing. His hair was a wet mess all over his head, as if he had just gotten out of the shower. He was only wearing a pair of athletic shorts. And that was it for clothing. Even his feet were bare.

Antonio made an odd noise, then groused, “Well, why the hell not?” Ezra’s mien didn’t change at Antonio’s outburst into the tense silence. “Come on in, Ezra.” Antonio laughed, sounding frazzled. “Join the party.”

Instantly, I held up my hand. “Actually Ezra, why don’t you go?” I flicked my wrist. “I’ll see you later.” I was already in it neck-deep. He could still run. “At dinner.” Hopefully.

His response was to step inside the room, shut the door, and lock it behind him.

My chest heaved. The man seriously didn’t know how to run. “Remember that nifty trick Antonio did that one night before our trip to the zoo?” It was best to give him a heads up if he wasn’t smart enough to get out.

His feet didn’t even falter as he stalked through the room. “Yes.” And, dear God, was he ever stalking, not just walking, his strides showing his rigidity while nothing else about his expression, or even his heart rate, did.

“Well,” I nodded around, “this happens to be Antonio’s office. All four of them were in it earlier while we were.”

He hummed.

That was all he did, stepping beside me with his hands in his pockets, directly between me and his dad.

No lips thinning. No heart faltering. No fainting.

Just that hum as he trained his eyes directly on his dad.

And they stared at each other with utterly blank faces…for what seemed like forever.

And finally, as before, Cahal started speaking, going through the same questions he had asked me, only this time, to his son. “You lied to me.”

Ezra’s answer was short and simple, like mine. “Yes.”

“Ms Ruckler has confirmed you two share a bedroom.”

Ezra shrugged. “And a bed.”

Cahal’s eyebrows rose. “How long has this been going on?”

Ah, a little deviation.

Ezra’s head cocked. “The first time we shared a bed was in December.”

My head dropped, realizing he was talking about the camping trip last year.

Cahal glanced to me, then back to his son. “Was that when your sexual relations began?”

Ezra’s lips lifted. “That was the first night I kissed her,” he shrugged, “she ended up naked on top of me by morning.”

I stilled, realizing he was taking the fall. Exactly as he said he would do in that supply closet.

Cahal glanced at Elder Merrick, who shrugged, stating, “Truth.”

“We didn’t actually have sex that night as he’s implying.” I wasn’t about to let him do this.

Cahal ignored me, asking Ezra, who also ignored me, “You were the father of her twins?”

His lips did pinch. “Yes.”

“How did you know their genders?”

Ezra’s head tilted back and forth. “It’s only an assumption.” He also didn’t look at Elder Merrick at the lie.

Cahal placed his elbow on the arm of the chair, chin in hand, watching his son avidly. “Who knows of your relationship?”

“Other than the people in this room?”

“Yes.”

Ezra shrugged. “No one who will ever mention anything.”

Cahal’s lips lifted on one side. “Enlighten me.”

Ezra sighed heavily, stating, “King Venclaire.”

Goddamn, what a fucking duo of liars we were.

Cahal lifted one eyebrow. “Who else?”

Ezra’s eyebrows came together. “No one else.”

“And how did King Venclaire find out?”

Ezra’s lips twitched. “He asked for a cigarette.”

Cahal’s dark eyes moved back and forth between us. “Outstanding.” His eyes continued evaluating. “You’re both lying in there somewhere, but you both do it so damn well.” He tilted his head toward Elder Merrick. “Shall I ask him where you both lied?”

We both shrugged, heart rates normal. If Elder Merrick really wanted to rat us out, he would do so whenever he chose to. It was no longer in our hands.

Cahal grunted. “Simply incredible.”

Ezra also grunted. “Are you finished? We’ve done nothing illegal, so we can’t formally be charged with anything, and you can’t do anything other than question us.”

After an extended silence, Cahal stated, “Just a few more questions.” Oh, goodie. His gaze landed on his son. “Did anyone in this room other than you two know of this affair before today?”

Ezra shook his head. “No one in this room knew we were having sex.”

Cahal glanced at Merrick, who stated, “Truth.”

Dark eyes found mine, Cahal watching me intently. “Same question, Ms Ruckler.”

I shook my head. “No one in this room knew we were having sex.”

Again, Cahal glanced at Merrick.

But this time, Merrick lowered his head, choking, “Lie.”

I quickly pulled my eyes from him, in complete disbelief he would contradict me. I was saving his ass, goddamn it. I felt Ezra stiffen next to me, not knowing this. Both of Cahal’s eyebrows rose as he stared at Merrick.

And, oh, so damn slowly, his face turned to me. “Who?”

My lips pinched shut, not knowing what the hell to do.

“I did,” Elder Merrick stated gruffly, again earning Cahal’s attention. “I knew Ezra was the father of her twins. I originally had my suspicions about their relationship, but when he reacted almost like a Shifter when King Kincaid began using his power on her when she became ill, I knew for sure.” He snorted. “I thought I was going to have to save the King’s life there for a few moments, and Ms Ruckler saw this.”

Cahal’s gaze roamed Elder Merrick’s face. “We’ll discuss this later.”

Elder Merrick’s lips tilted in a small smile at the obvious irritation in Cahal’s brusque tone. “It should be no surprise to you I keep my mouth shut.”

A grunt ensued from Cahal, his eyes returning to me. “Was Elder Merrick the only one?”

“Yes.” Assumptions were different than fact, and I couldn’t one hundred percent be sure Antonio had known about us.

Before Cahal’s head even turned completely to Elder Merrick, he stated, “Truth.”

Dark eyes on me. “Why would you choose to protect him?”

I shrugged. “He meant no harm to Ezra and me, so no harm should fall on him.”

His thumbs began that ticking motion, but this time it was in cadence to Ezra’s heartbeat. “What if I said, because of the new information about hybrids, a new Law has been passed, which states if any two individuals from different Mys factions are found guilty of sexual relations, the punishment would be five years jail time followed by a permanent spelled separation?”

Both Ezra and I stilled completely, our heart rates instantly galloping, no longer able to play it cool. Cahal’s thumbs stopped their drumming as he cocked his head, watching us closely. I turned to Antonio, searching his expression. He wouldn’t lie to me about this.

Antonio was leaning against the wall, arms crossed, watching the proceeding carefully, but he met my gaze evenly. “Some of the Elders are considering this.”

My mouth was open, but I quickly snapped it shut, not knowing exactly what to say that was safe.

Ezra growled at Antonio, “To help with war negotiations? Or out of fear?”

“Both, I believe,” he said softly, eyeing Ezra.

Ezra’s chest rose and fell heavily, his gaze turning toward Cahal. “Are you one of the Elders trying to pass this Law?”

“That isn’t the issue here, although I will state, not touching on the fact you two are from different Mystical factions, a romantic relationship between two Rulers can have horrendous outcomes, which I don’t believe you two are even considering.” He leaned forward, placing his elbows on his knees. “Do you have any idea the disasters that could erupt if this continues and somewhere down the road one of you ends up hurting the other? The four Rulers have to keep the peace together for their subjects’ sake. Add in emotions, instead of rational thought, and you both could fuck up the balance.”

He snorted, like, as in an actual snort. “You two have already done that with your childish behavior.” He shook his head, his eyes closing. He fell back against the chair, actually showing emotion as he muttered a curse under his breath.

He ran a hand over his face, appearing worried as his eyes went to his Ezra. “Son, I wasn’t always mated to your mother. I understand true love without the magic. I’ve experienced profound jealousy. I know what it can do to a person when things don’t go your way.” Another shake of his head. “You need to listen to me when I say that sometimes you just need to walk away before you get in too deep.”

My head dropped to stare at my feet, when all I wanted to do was pounce on the damn man and beat the living shit out of him. Yes, he had a valid argument. All of those things could happen, but Lord help me if I was going to let my damn throne dictate who I did and did not want to be with privately. With someone worth the risk. It already took so much from me, I wasn’t about to let it take my soul, too.

Ezra cleared his throat. “We aren’t foolish enough to believe it would be easy if we chose to have a real relationship.” His voice was soft, and I could tell he was startled by his dad’s honest words, probably shocked that his dad had a life before his mom, but he didn’t give in. “And on the legal aspect, no Law has been passed yet to try to stop us. Ultimately, it’s still our choice. If we did choose to do this, I’m sure we would try to make better decisions in the future in regards to arguments or,” he cleared his throat, “other things.”

“God,” Cahal growled, rubbing his hands over his face in agitation, “I’ve taught you so much, but you’re still so fucking young.” He sighed heavily before turning a glare on me.

I went utterly still, my gaze glued to him. Along with all that anger on his face — and there was plenty — there was a deep hurt riding it. A profound one. That was a life experience staring me in the face.

His nostrils flared, and he muttered, “At least your damn mate’s dead.”

“Dad!” Ezra barked, taking a step in front of me, partially blocking my view. “What the fuck?”

My jaw was clenched at the callous remark, but I quickly placed a hand on Ezra’s bicep. “Don’t.” Cahal’s comment hadn’t been geared to hurt me. It had been his past talking. I could see that. “I’m not offended.” Ezra’s wide gaze met mine in disbelief. I shook my head, giving his arm a tug and placing him back where he was originally standing. “It’s okay. Really.”

Ezra’s gaze flew to Elder Merrick.

Elder Merrick’s arms were crossed, a fist in front of his mouth, intelligent eyes watching. Mute. But he met Ezra’s silent question. “Truth.” His navy blue gaze turned to me. “It’s amazing how much you see.” A pause. “And don’t.”

Well, that could mean a million things.

I cleared my throat, trying to get back on track. “When is this new Law supposed to be decided?” My gaze flew to each Elder in the room. “And do you plan to tell them about us?”

Elder Jacobs chuckled softly where he had been sitting quietly. “You have some balls, girl.”

I shrugged. “It’s best to be prepared.” I left it at that. Their responses would dictate whether I would be asking a favor of Antonio. If they planned to blab, I would have their memories permanently erased. There were survival instincts on many different levels.

“I’m not sure I want to know what’s going through your mind right now,” Elder Merrick murmured softly, eyes scanning my face. “You get this certain look about you sometimes that scares even me.”

“I raised her. What else would you expect?” Antonio stated quietly, intervening graciously as a small smile played at his lips. He winked at me. He knew what I would ask of him.

Ezra’s hand landed on the small of my back, surprising me — he was apparently no longer afraid to touch me in front of them and pulled me against his side. “I don’t believe the answers are written on her breasts, Elder Merrick.” My gaze flew to the Elder, and I caught his eyes lifting from my chest. “Just answer her questions.”

Elder Merrick shrugged, waving a hand. “Forgive me. I was just daydreaming about attractive bunnies.” I bit my lips as the man still managed to antagonize Ezra, but watched as he shook his head. “I believe they plan to decide this Law quickly. And, baby Zeller, I’ve known many secrets in my life, and I’m the very soul of discretion.”

Ezra growled quietly, but his gaze went to Elder Jacobs. “And you?”

But Elder Jacobs was staring at Elder Merrick. “Bunnies? I thought they were lambs.”

My eyes closed as I rubbed my forehead. “Can everyone please stop talking about my bra?”

“They were bunnies. Get your fucking eyesight checked,” Elder Merrick griped. “I’m not going to save your ass on the field just because you’re too afraid to see a doctor.”

Elder Jacobs’s face scrunched up. “Where the hell does a grown woman even buy lingerie like that?” His gaze went to my chest. “She’s not small enough for the children’s section.”

Face flaming brightly, I didn’t even mind when Ezra shoved me behind him and rumbled, “No, she’s not a fucking child, as you all,” his predator growled low, “saw. And I would appreciate it if everyone would quit staring at her damn breasts.” I rested my forehead against his back at the reminder of how much they had seen. And I couldn’t help the fact I was a smidge pleased at seeing him act possessive. That was a good sign for what I had asked of him. “Now, Elder Jacobs, would you mind answering her question?”

“I’m not a snitch, nor bored enough to really care about your sex life,” I heard Elder Jacobs rumble. “Although, I agree with Elder Zeller. I don’t think you two have any clue about the consequences of your actions.” A pause. “But since you’re young and headstrong, and more than likely won’t listen to the voice of reason, I will state that you need to make it a priority to wrap it up, since you two have already proven you’re damn fertile.” He paused with a heavy sigh. “Do you know how long it takes almost all Mysticals to conceive? And you two did it so quickly.” He cursed. “Wrap. It. Up.”

Ezra cleared his throat. “Condoms…got it.” He was careful not to say he would.

Elder Jacobs half chuckled, half grunted. “Jesus, Zeller, didn’t you teach your kid anything?”

“Apparently, not who to stay away from,” Cahal muttered.

“That’s enough, Cahal,” Antonio said in a quiet, clipped tone. Too quietly. “I’ve let you have your fun, but don’t you dare take out your aggression on her any longer.”

I peeked around Ezra’s shoulder when the room went quiet.

Cahal was peering at Antonio, slightly glowing eyes narrowed. “I will do as I damn well please where my son is concerned.”

Whew…he was upset.

Antonio’s lips lifted, and he actually bared his teeth at Cahal. “And I will do as I damn well please where Lily is concerned.”

Well…they were both pissed.

Elder Jacobs clapped his hands loudly. “Okay, that’s enough of that, you two. You want to take it outside later, feel free, but right now, we need to finish this, so we can finish our other business because,” he glanced around, “all this gold is making me queasy.”

“Elder Farrar?” Ezra asked after a moment, again surprising me as he slid his hands back, taking hold of my hips and pulling my body flush against his warm back.

Antonio heaved in a large breath, moving his attention away from Cahal. His head tilted back on the wall, eyes closed, as he waved a hand. “I’ll never do anything to harm Lily.”

“Don’t even ask me, Ezra,” Cahal’s head was now in his hands, “You know I’ll protect you.”

A pause, then Ezra murmured quietly, “I know, Dad.” Slowly, he started backing up, pushing me with him. “I think we’ll go now.” His steps were growing larger, even as he lifted me off my feet when my strides wouldn’t match his. “You all have a nice evening.”

“Yes, please go,” Antonio stated quietly, but waved a hand. “I will expect you to come back to fix that crack you put above my door.” One eye opened. “When you’re invited.”

“Of course,” Ezra stated, setting me on my feet, even though I was pretty sure he had no clue what Antonio was talking about. “I’ll wait for your call.” He opened the door for me.

I had one foot in the hallway when I stilled. Cahal was using the old Vampire form of communication. Grabbing my earlobe, I tugged on it while I listened to his voice hiss in my ear, “If you ever hurt him, I will kill you.”

My wolf wanted to growl, but I swallowed it, dropping my hand and glancing back at him. He loved his son something fierce. There was no denying that. Ezra had frozen when I had, his gaze snapping to his father, smart enough to understand what was happening. Cahal’s head lifted. His dark eyes met mine.

Oh, did he ever mean his threat, too.

I got it, so I nodded, then exited the room with a hovering Vampire next to me.