Her Perfect Mate: Mak's story (Annalese and the Immortals Book 3) by Annie Buff (1)

    HER PERFECT MATE; MAKS STORY

 

    Annalese and the Immortals Book Three

 

 

    Author;  Annie Buff

 

 

    Editor;   Chris Cain

 

 

    Cover Design; Dark Waters Covers

 

 

 

 

 

 

     Copyright ©2018 by Annie Buff, all rights reserved

 

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced in any manner whatsoever, including internet usage, without written permission from the author, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical articles and reviews.

 

These are works of fiction. Names, character, places and incidents are either products of the author’s imagination or are used factiously, and any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, business

 

                                     THE BEGINNING

 

“Did you just say dragon? How much exactly have you had to drink, because dragons don’t exist.” Vlad stood staring at his newly adopted son realizing how sheltered he’d been. Well, it was time to be his father, someone had to teach him all the things he didn’t understand in their world.

  “Makhi, things are not always as they seem, and that was in fact a dragon. I am sure with him returning home, he will visit quite soon.” Mak had to wrap his head around this, it was all unreal.

  “Seriously, they are real! Holy Hell, I had no idea they actually exist! I may need another drink, or just the bottle!”  Footsteps behind him caught his attention, the princess had come out, holding a bottle of Ketel One.

  “I hear you need a drink, that bad huh?” Vlad had informed her on the situation so she was fully aware Mak was seeing his first dragon.

  “It’s a dragon, a fucking dragon! Did you know about them? I had no idea.” Mak was babbling a hundred miles an hour, she wanted to stop him but figured he needed to get it all out of his system.

  “ Yes Mak, I know about the dragons, now so do you. It’s ok, Bayaan is pretty cool from what I’ve heard.”  But Annalese knew it was anything but ok. Bayaan had been gone a long time, and if he was back all Hell was about to break loose. She had a bad feeling her family would be caught in the crossfire, for Annalese that was not an option.

 

 

                                                          MAK

 

  Mak had never seen so many supernatural beings in one place before in his entire life, Vlad had called in the Calvary, There were beings he’d only heard of in fairy tales and they were here in his home. He was still wrapping his head around all of it.

  Vlad and Lachlan had been in the library off and on for almost a week, meeting with all the beings in the castle, Mak still had no idea what was going on and felt overly left out. Vlad had called him a son, and a son should stand by his father, especially during war. He had a feeling war was coming.

   Mak had decided he couldn’t pace the floors anymore so he left to cool his heels in the garden, leaving his shoes by the back door and going barefoot. He hadn’t shifted in a week and he’d need to soon, to soothe the wolf clawing to explore his new surroundings. Mak would try to keep it at bay for as long as possible, knowing he needed to be present when called upon. Even if the waiting was driving slightly mad.

   He found a pond not far from here he and Vlad sat the night he saw the dragon for the first time, he rolled up his jeans, submerging his feet in the icy water. It was just November but the air was turning cold, and the pond even colder. After a few minutes the water had started to serve its purpose, his head was clearing and the wolf was calming. Mak closed his eyes, listening to the sounds of his new home. He was so in tune with the tiny forest creatures he almost missed the footsteps behind him, almost.

“Vlad.” He recognized the scent immediately, but made no move to get up so the prince shucked his boots and joined him.

   “Tell me Makhi, what’s troubling you? I am certain for you to be here you are upset, possibly angry.” He was upset, there was no denying that so he gave Vlad nod of confirmation, now to figure the best way to explain it.

   “I feel useless, I should be standing by you, not be kept in the dark. I know I’m supposed to protect the princess and her children but how can I if I am unaware of the dangers around. This is very frustrating.” Vlad understood, his new son was pissed, but he would get over it, or not. Vlad wasn’t sure he cared how pissed off Mak was. He had things to deal with first, now it was time o let Mak in.

   “Makhi, son, I had to know what we were dealing with first, now I have some answers but many more questions. Something or someone is killing our kind, not just vampires Makhi, wolves too. Several fairies have been found mutilated close to my property. This is happening on my watch, in my homeland, it is thoroughly unacceptable. To tell you the truth I am fucking livid, you have no idea the thoughts I m having at this moment, but I need you, I have something for you to do.”

   “Fuck! Finally!” then all of a sudden Mak realized how out of line he was. “I am sorry,” his head hung down, “it's just I have skills and I feel so useless and left out.” Vlad could understand that, he himself would have been beating down the door, not waiting to be asked. Patience was never one of Vlad’s virtues, it’s why he understood Annalese not waiting well.

   “Makhi, look at me, I am not angry with you, I respect your feelings but I needed to know what was happening before we spoke. I will in no way put my son in harm’s ay until I now what in Hades is going on, do you understand?” it was posed as a question, however Mak knew it wasn’t. “Annalese would kill me If harm came to you, and I would let her. Do you know why? Because I didn’t watch out for you the way a parent should, now are you still angry with me?”

  Mak shook his head, he wasn’t angry, he was hurt. He tried for years to hide his soft side from the world, he was a werewolf and a Beta, they weren’t soft or sensitive, but Mak was. Annalese saw it, and told him it was good to be sweet, Mak wasn’t sure about that.

“ I wasn’t angry at you, I was just hurt. Annalese says I am just sensitive, I am not sure if that’s good or bad.” Vlad gave him the nod.

   “Fair enough son, let’s go get a drink and discuss business, and I believe it is a good thing. She is almost always right Mak.”  Vlad grabbed his boots and headed towards home, out of the blue he stopped and Mak thought something was wrong .

  “Makhi , you are my son, I do not care if it is not by blood, I love you and that is all that matters.” Vlad embraced him, and Mak returned it.

   “Thank you, I m not good with expressing things, but I do feel the same.” Vlad just chuckled.

  “Spend enough time with Annalese, and feelings just happen.” That was easy to see, she had taken Vlad, cold and calculating and turned him to putty. At least at home, Mak was sure no one outside the family ever saw that side of the prince, the kind-hearted loving man he was with the Lyla and of course the princess.

   They wound up in the library, the fire was still going and it felt good. Mak didn’t realize just how cold he’d gotten, parking his butt on the floor smack dab In front of the crackling heat. The giant stone hearth was his favorite part of Vlad’s library. He was handed a crystal with his vodka, while the prince joined him with a beverage of his own, the bottle of scotch.

  “There are things I need from you, first off tomorrow at sundown Nico will be here for you. I know you need to shift soon and my reasoning for sending you with him is quite simple. You need to familiarize yourself with your new homeland, be able to find your way around. Once you have done that, I want recon, listen to everything. I need to figure out who is behind this, it hits below the belt and I will not stand for it, someone will pay.”  Mak agreed, home should be safe and someone would pay dearly if Vlad had his way, and he almost always did.

  “Now son, there is something I need to show you, come.” The two walked side by side up the staircase until they reached Vlad’s chambers, Mak had no idea why they had invaded the room, but knew there was a reason. “This is how we get Annalese and the children to safety should the need arise.” Vlad showed him the control panel, and how to use it, he walked him to where it opened in Lyla’s room, then the two walked he entire castle so Vlad could show Mak all the escape routes and hidden passageways he’d built over the centuries. The last stop was to his weaponry vault.

  “You are only the third man I’ve very allowed in here, I m not sure what we will face and if you are ever in a position where you cannot shift for whatever reason, you will need something to protect yourself with. Lachlan has his claymore, find one you like nod make it your own.”  Mak studied each one, like he was being tested on what he saw, then he found it, the archaic crossbow was exactly what he wanted, just holding it gave him a feeling of empowerment.

   “Somehow I knew that would be your choice, I as always fond of that piece, it will serve you well should you need it.

   “I know you can control it, but does the beast take over when the rage comes? I only ask because mine does Mak, the monster that lies under the surface. I have never let myself get to that point in front of Annalese, she knows it lies beneath but does not need to see it.” He knew exactly what Vlad was referring to, his animal, the wolf that lay just under the skin always wanting to be freed.

   “In a fight, yes to a degree. But if I’m in a fight, there’s  damn good reason, and the wolf loves a fight. So I let him go, free him to have his fun.” That was true, he’d let go, but just a little, to soothe the beast. “Other than that, I can’t say.”

   Vlad let it sink in as they walked slowly back to his library, his sanctuary. It was where he conducted business, where he drank, and where he would spend time with the people closest to him. “What about during sex? That is when I m most careful, being a human I could hurt her, and if I ever frightened her I could never forgive myself.”

   Mak had no intention of discussing this with anyone so he quickly changed the subject. “How old is the crossbow? It’s magnificent.” Vlad was well aware how swiftly Mak changed topics, but let it go for the time being. He had just acquired a family and Vlad wondered if it was too soon to have these kind of talks. Or maybe there was more to it, Mak would hopefully open up when he was ready.

   “Sixteenth century France, a gift from Mehmet.” Lachlan found his way in and the three spoke of recent events until close to dawn, Mak had excused himself to get some sleep and Vlad still was brewing about the topic change. Lachlan smiled shaking his head, knowing something was going on in Vlad’s head.

   “Aye T, oot with it, I know ye well enough te see something is on yer mind.”

   He got the nod, it was classic Vlad, and Lachlan knew. “Makhi is holding something back, he feels he cannot share whatever it is with me and I am perplexed. I am trying to decide if I should let it go or go ask Annalese to talk to him. He cares for her and I believe he would open up to her.” Lachlan knew that, Annalese could get a mime to talk, it was just in her nature. She was the easiest person in the world to spill to, because she listened and really heard what the other person was saying. An she did all this without one iota of judgement, just her love and support.

  “Well T, I’d let him be for now, but talk to me angel. Tell her what’s happening, the poor kid may just be home sick. I remember leaving Scotland, tis not an easy thing when tis all ye know.”

   Maybe it was his newfound fatherly instincts from Lyla, but Vlad knew damn well it had nothing to do with being home sick, something he said hit a sore spot. He would let it go for now, but he had every intention of speaking with his love about it.

   Lachlan stayed behind to make a few calls while Vlad made his way to the nursery. There he found the two women that ruled his heart. “Baby, I missed you tonight. Have you found anything out yet?” He shook his head, reaching for his daughter. She cooed and snuggled up to Vlad’s chest.

   “Hello my little love, I have missed you.” He told Lyla as she kept cooing and smiling at him. “Annalese, my love I need a favor from you. There something going on with Makhi, and I m not sure what it is. I feel I hit a nerve tonight, however I cannot be sure what I said to cause this.”

   She shook her head smiling , he didn’t realize most of the time it was his presence not his words. “You can be kind of scary at times, tell me everything.” And that’s exactly what he did, from the talk at the pond until Lachlan showed up. Annalese let it all sink in, going over Vlad’s words. Her smile told him she knew everything.

   “You know what is wrong with my son, don’t you my love?” They were always posed as questions but anyone that knew Vlad, knew they really weren’t .

   Annalese knew exactly what Vlad had said to cause Mak to shut down.

   “Yes baby I do, and no I’m not  telling you. He will, just give him time. Can you do that ?” He would try, for her he would always try. Vlad lay his sleeping child in her crib and wrapped his arms around Annalese. He leaned in to capture her lips, then just held tight. The danger was starting all over again but there was no way he could send her away this time. He couldn’t bear it, and he had Mak to keep watch on her when he was absent.

   “I love you Annalese, you and that child give my heart reason to beat. Please do not leave the castle without security. Of course I prefer it be myself or Lachlan but if you must go into town, please take your wolf.” She didn’t speak, but nodded against his chest. Vlad wanted her safe, out of harm’s way and she wouldn’t argue.

 

 

                                                  THE SECRET

 

 

   Mak lay in his bed knowing the Prince was well aware of his swift change in topics, and he was fairly sure he would go to Annalese. Mak had spilled his guts the night of the naming ceremony when she was teaching him how to dance. She was just that one person you could tell anything to, and before he knew it, Mak had revealed everything. In usual Annalese style she told him there was nothing wrong with it and he shouldn’t be ashamed, but he was. Totally. Completely. Utterly. Ashamed. She had promised him that his secret was safe with her, but knowing Vlad the way he was starting to; Mak had a feeling his newly adopted father was going straight to Annalese.  How would he ever face him, would she tell him? He couldn’t stop his mind from running.

   Mak got up and wandered the halls of the castle, checking on Michael and on baby Lyla. The infant was the spitting image of her mother, the only attribute she shared with her father was his violet eyes. He quietly shut the nursery door, tip toeing through the halls until he found himself in the library. “Aye Mak ye canna sleep either? I’ve been on the phone for hours calling in a favor. We are getting more help, a good friend from the states is going to be here night after tonight. Alex is the best detective I know .”

   Mak had to know, “Human?” Lachlan nodded. “How is a human going to be able to help us with this? Humans can’t possibly understand our world?” Mak was more than confused.

   “Alex is the lead investigator for a special group that only deals with he supernatural world, trust me Mak we need this.” Lachlan clasped his shoulder  on the way out the door. He’d been up way too long and needed to sleep, and he needed to be in his bed next to the one he loved.

   Mak surely hoped whoever Alex was he could get some leads on what was happening . No one was safe and that worried Mak. He had just gotten his family and couldn’t bear if he lost any of them. He knew the beast he kept on a leash would bust loose and there would be no stopping him. Once as a teenage pup he lost control defending a female, he had to be physically restrained for several days until he calmed down. He had come so close to killing the other young wolf, after he realized what had happened he hid in his home or two weeks.

   His mind drifted and his feet wandered until Mak found himself in the clearing at the edge of the garden. He could a see the valley, Bayaan's valley. He was so curious about the dragon king, until recently he had no idea they existed. Mak thought dragons were fairy tale stories. “Greetings Makhi.”

Mak jumped back to face what he had only read about, a dragon.

   “Holy shit!” he breathed . Then he inhaled deeply but smelled nothing, the dragon had no scent. No wonder why he didn’t smell him coming.

   “We can mask our scent, much like Vlad can.” Well that was news, the Prince had so many abilities no one knew about. It was no wonder he was so feared. Humans and supes alike had no idea just what he was capable of and Mak knew beyond any shadow of a doubt Vlad liked it that way.

   The dragon shrank away, leaving Mak face to face with Bayaan the man; King of the dragons. In usual Mak style he hit one knee and bowed, he didn’t  know how to be anything but formal. "Please stand, I m not your king. Vlad is your king, bow to him if you must.” Mak had no idea what to say or what to do. "I saw you and wanted to meet the newest member of the Dracul family."

   Even nude and in human form the dragon was fierce, his eyes drew Mak's attention. They were orange like the sun and had a soft glow to them. Up against his silver hair that flowed well passed his shoulders they were magnificent. "Sir I do apologize if I stare, I had no idea you were real. I was under the impression dragons only existed in fairy tale stories.”

“ Dear child, you’ve been sheltered. We have existed for thousands of years, although there are few of us left.” Bayaan paused, looking upwards to the sky. “Now I must seek rest, you should do the same new Dracul.” Once again the gigantic grey dragon was before him, then took flight in a blink.

   Mak watched in awe as Bayaan defied gravity, soaring through the heavens and disappearing beyond the valley. “Wow”. He spoke aloud,  “an honest to god fucking dragon. What’s next, the seven fucking dwarfs.” Mak was still blown away, shaking his head he realized just how tired and cold  become. His bed was calling and this time he was listening.

 

 

 

 

 

 

                    EXPLORING ROMANIA

 

  Dusk found Vlad in his favorite chair in front of the fireplace, His daughter on his lap. Only a few weeks old and already sitting up and grabbing at anything within her reach. He had returned to wearing his hair tied back. The babe had taken several handfuls before he caved in and gone to the low ponytail. “I see you’ve gone back to the Steven Seagal look.” Nico loves to give Vlad shit, and the prince let him. He did however give Nico his famous eyebrow raise. “Here my friend, you take her. See how much hair you lose wolf.” Vlad said with a grin, a slightly evil grin.

“Thank the gods she looks like Annalese, because you my blood guzzling friend are one ugly son of a bitch.” Nico cackled and Vlad just shook his head. He really did like Nico, it’s probably why he let him live. Even being a shifter and the Alpha, Vlad knew Nico was no match for his vampire strength.

“So where’s the kid? And did you make coffee? I need some.” The pair made their way to the kitchen, Nico still trying to keep Lyla away from his curls.

“I do not make coffee Nicodemus, that job belongs to Marcus and he does it quite well.” Marcus had either heard them or his ESP was spot on because he had two steaming cups poured as the men entered the kitchen.

“Master Vlad. Nico. I have set breakfast up in the dining room. Will you be joining us tonight Nico? Or is coffee enough?”

Vlad did his single nod, indicating he would eat shortly. Nico was waiting on Mak and with a shift coming having a full stomach was a bad idea. As soon as the shift was complete, the newly eaten food would come out. Sometimes It was  by vomiting, sometimes it was excrement. Either way it wasn’t a pleasant experience. That was a lesson he had learned early on in life.

“I expect Makhi will be down shortly. He did not sleep well. I heard him pacing half the day. I do believe he met the dragon today.” Nico had hoped Mak would have gotten a decent amount of sleep. Shifting was draining, he would definitely sleep good after tonight’s run.

Mak was awake and aware of Nico in the castle. His hearing was quite good, not vampire good but enough he knew he needed to get moving. He made his way to the shower dropping his pants and stepping into the Steamy spray, standing a mobile for a number of minutes before he grabbed his soap. He looked at himself as he lathered his chest and stomach had a light dusting of blond hair and it continued on his overly muscular legs. He stared at his dick which had decided to perk up. That same dirty blonde hair was there too well most of it anyway. Mak had one patch of silver. a curl.  It had been there since he reached puberty, he had always wondered why no one else he knew had anything like that. He shook off the haze and finished up.

He dressed in sweatpants knowing he was going to shift and they were easy to remove. He ran his hand through his wet hair to remove the tangles and went to get coffee three hours of sleep was not nearly enough. He needed caffeine and loads of it. What he found in the kitchen almost shocked him. Nico bouncing Lyla on his knee, trying his best to drink a cup of coffee and keep her from ripping out the platinum hoops in his ears. Vlad standing against the wall, smirking.

“Ah Makhi, coffee?” Vlad asked in such a way Mak knew he knew. He didn’t need to answer as a mug and sugar bowl slid his way. “Son we need to speak for a moment before you leave. Come.” Ah shit here we go, Mak thought as they walked in silence to the library. Vlad closed the double doors behind them.

“Fuck me.” Mak said, barely above a whisper, Vlad heard but did not respond.

“I spoke with Annalese last night after we parted. I knew I said something to upset you, but had no idea of what so I went to her. Do you know what she told me? Nothing, not one word. All she would say was it was not hers to tell, and that you would in time. Please Makhi, I cannot help you if I do not understand.” Mak stood, staring into his mug. He had no idea how to get out of this, lying to Vlad wasn’t an option, he saw through lies quite well. He was however relieved that the princess kept his secret. He saw no options.

“Growing up in Zhors pack, there were just things we didn’t talk about. He and the elders are very conservative, so outside of fighting I have little otherworldly experience.” Vlad let the words process in his mind. Wolves in general talked about everything so this was quite new. As he was trying to decipher Mak’s words the light went on. Vlad had a damn good idea of what Mak’s secret was.

“All this secrecy over nothing son. It is such a minor thing, ask and I will tell you anything you want to know.” Mak released the breath he wasn’t even aware he’d been holding.

“You’re not embarrassed or ashamed by this?” He himself was mortified, how could Vlad not be. Even if it was just a little.

“Makhi why would I have any issues with this at all? It certainly does not change who you are in any way.” The next words from Mak came out in stutters.

“But…but, you’re Vlad. The nephew of the great impaler, more so the great lover and I…” Vlad moved directly in front of him, hands on Mak’s shoulders.

“Son, look at me.” Mak reluctantly looked up, meeting Vlad’s gaze. “Sex with someone who you do not love is only a physical gratification, one you have probably learned already. It is just masturbation using someone else’s body. I too did not fully grasp it until Annalese came into my life. Now I truly appreciate and understand what making love really is. Son, your virginity is something to be proud of, treasured. Not to be ashamed of, and I am quite proud you chose to keep it.” Mak started to speak, but Vlad quickly cut him off. “When you meet your mate, you will know. That is when you will give all of yourself to her. She will love you son, and love that you waited.”

Mak nodded, not quite sure what to say. He certainly wasn’t expecting this to say the least. For Vlad to accept his innocence without even batting an eye. He was once again shocked by the prince. There were a number of minutes before he could form words.

“It wasn’t that I intended this, I just had aspirations of being something more than some unwanted pup that had been cast aside.  I wanted to lead and I knew I could if given the chance, so I fought like Hell to become Beta for Zhor. I could not the distraction of chasing tail so to speak. Once I made it I thought maybe I would date, but that was a disaster. I clam up around the opposite sex, I have no idea what to do or say. In the end I just quit trying because it was entirely too embarrassing. What if this happens when I meet her? She’s going to think I’m nuts.”

Vlad embraced his son. He knew sharing this was as difficult as it was monumental. “No son she will not, your mate will love you, see the man you are. That will be all that matters. Now go, find Nico and run. It will do you good. As for the rest, when the time is right it will all fall into place.”

Leaving the library with Vlad, Mak felt better than he had in a very long time. Not perfect, but surely better. Nico was still where he was, attempting to drink coffee and the princess was with him. She was laughing as she watched her daughter pull at Nico and his hair. Mak saw her look up and immediately went to her, wrapping his arms around her and hugging his friend.

“Thank you,” he whispered. “He knows now, but for not telling him, thank you.” Mak held her for a few more minutes until a loud throat clearing came from Lachlan.

“Aye Mak, she canna handle anamore mates.” A hearty laugh coming from the Scot.

   “I have no idea how she puts up with the two of you as it is.” Mak joked back and before long everyone was enjoying a good laugh until Nico hollered.

  “Ow! Fuck! Shit she’s strong!” Lyla had a fist full of chocolate locks and wasn’t letting go. This time it was Vlad’s turn, he did love when karma came around.

  “Ah yes my Lycan friend, now you see why I have gone back to tying my hair, rather than leaving it to flow as my love prefers. Lyla is exploring and I do like my hair.” Nico definitely got it now. Thankfully she hadn’t pulled it out, just taking the pulling was enough.

“ Come on kid, let’s go explore. Shift and let your wolf run, he’s got to be clawing to be freed.” Mak nodded and followed him. He did need to run, there was so much on his mind it would do good to just be the beast.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

     ALEX ISAACSON TO THE RESCUE

 

 

   Alex was packing the rest of her travel bags. She was going to Romania. Her dear friend Lachlan McCain had called asking for help. There was no possible way to say no considering he had saved her life early on in her career. She wouldn’t have said no anyway, Lachlan was her friend and friends helped each other, so she was heading overseas to lend whatever help she could. Good thing she wasn’t flying commercial, with the bag of weaponry and equipment she would never get through security. Vlad Tepes was sending his private jet to pick her up, Alex was flying in style.

   She had pulled her black tresses back, but a few curls had already escaped. She stared at her reflection, royal blue eyes looking back at her. Alex was only five foot tall, but sometimes being small had its advantages. Even short she was shapely, a perfect hourglass figure her mother would tell  her, and the numerous men who were always trying to bed her.

Alex had lost her virginity early on, at sixteen. She called it the worst experience of her life. Afterwards she made the decision to wait until the right man came along. Now she was 25 and still waiting, sometimes she didn’t believe he existed. Most days she had no hope.

 

  The shit was hitting the fan over there, she’d read everything Lachlan had sent. Help was seriously needed so she grabbed her stuff and loaded her car. She stood on the patio watching the rain fall and finishing a cigarette. I was her only vice. She rarely drank but she did curse like a sailor, but didn’t everyone these days.

It was time to go, she had a long flight ahead and Alex hated flying. She had to do it, she had made a promise and Alex Isaacson never went back on a promise. Plus she missed Lachlan, damn vampire! He had taken a mate and sired a child. She would be meeting them for the first time, and to meet the Prince himself. Very few outside his circle had the privilege. This was a huge deal, so she started her car and headed to the airport. She was off on an adventure, hopefully this one wouldn’t get her killed.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

                             RUNNING OF THE WOLVES

 

  Nico and Mak had shifted and were pounding the forest floor. It was exhilarating to feel soil under his paws again.  The crunch of the last of the years leaves, snapping of twigs. This was exactly what he needed. Vlad was right, this was doing him an insurmountable amount of good. Was his new father ever wrong, Mak highly doubted it.

Nico led him passed a fallen tree to the edge of a pond that had just started to freeze over at the edges. They bent to drink and rest a moment. Mak’s wolf was large, but Nico made him look like a pup. He was black like Zhor, but a solid black. Zhor had pale grey tips on his ears, Nico had none. He was easily four hundred pounds. They had run for most the night. Nico had shown Mak the city and the outskirts, where the pack lands were located, how to get to Nico’s home and he had met the bears. A small clan of shifters that shared the pack lands with Nico’s wolves. Recon would be easy now that he’d learned his way around, familiarized himself with all the scents. They ended where they started, Vlad’s estate at the edge of the garden.

   “You wanna come back with me? Hang out with the pack.” Nico asked as Mak dressed. “I can guarantee some fun, I know a couple of she-wolves dying to meet you. Have a little fun with the females, blow off steam and get laid.” Mak knew he wasn’t going to reveal to Nico anything he’d told Vlad so he politely declined.

   “Thanks for the offer, but with everything going on I can’t afford distractions. Plus I slept like shit and  I’m damn tired trying to keep up with you.” Nico just laughed. He liked this kid. The loyalty he was showing was impressive. He needed more like him in his pack.

   “Well kid if you change your mind, offer is always open. Now I need to find a sweet young thing to warm my bed tonight, I’m out.” Nico shifted back, running into the forest and disappearing beyond the tree line. Mak sat for the longest time just feeling. His adrenaline was still rushing through his veins, he actually felt amazing. He was definitely dragging ass, but it still felt wonderful. Mak was realizing how long it had been since he had eaten and he was ravenous. He used the entrance in the rear of the castle, it led to the kitchen and thank the gods Marcus was still there.

  “Master Makhi, how was your run? Can I make you anything before I retire for the day?” He told him he was starving and anything he made would be perfect, then Mak went and grabbed the gallon of milk from the refrigerator. He didn’t bother with a glass, aware he wouldn’t leave anything in the plastic container.

   It wasn’t far from dawn and the house was quiet, Mak assumed everyone was in their chambers for the day. He was surprised to see Annalese wander into the kitchen, baby bottle in hand. Lyla was eating almost as much as a human toddler, and had started having a drop of blood in her milk. Hybrid children had to have blood, there were nutrients they couldn’t digest unless it came from human blood.

“Hey, how was your run? Did you enjoy getting to hang out with Nico?” Mak smiled at her, she always made him smile. He had no idea why he had taken to her so quickly, but he had.

“Yes, very much. I feel great! More tired than I’ve been in years, but really good. Vlad said it would be good for me, is he ever wrong?” He asked in a laugh.

“Oh yes, but we all let him think he’s right. Got to keep the king happy.” Soon Vlad would be King, and she the Queen. They had planned their mating ceremony for the Yule Ball. Once the vows had been exchanged, Vlad would become King of the Vampires. “Hey Mak, is that blood?” Annalese was pointing at the floor. Damn if it wasn’t blood.

“Go get Vlad, it’s exactly what it looks like.” Being so tired he hadn’t noticed the scent of copper, but now that she had pointed it out it was hitting him hard. Annalese took off running, Mak looked at the bloody footprints. They were his prints. The soil had been dampened from a misting of precipitation so he hadn’t noticed anything out of place.

Mak propped open the back door, looking down. He saw what looked to be mud on the grass, he now knew better. Blood, and a lot of it. Vlad came to his side. He too surveyed the back lawn, inhaling deeply. “It is fairly fresh, possibly only a few hours old. Walk me out to where you were. I have a sinking feeling I will not like what I find.”

The two walked side by side down the path Mak had taken from the garden to the kitchen. The coppery scent was growing stronger. Vlad stopped dead in his tracks, that’s when Mak saw it. Patches of fur and skin. And blood, so much blood. “Wolf.” Was all that was said. Mak knew somewhere out in the woods lie a dead wolf. When a shifter died the body stayed in whichever form they were in at the time. This one died fighting.

“Son you do not need to see anymore. I can handle it from here.” Mak was sickened, but not from the blood or flesh. It was from another of his kind dying such a horrible death. He knew how much pain must have been involved and that made him sick.

“No, I am not running. We do this together. A son stands with his father, and I will do nothing less.” Vlad was impressed by the character Mak was showing. His loyalty and bravery came shining through. Another hundred yards and they found what they were looking for, a deceased wolf. Mutilated and nearly decapitated. Vlad knew him well, this was really starting to piss him off. He pulled out his phone and sent a 911 to Nico. It was going to be an excruciatingly long day.

Nico’s pack came to collect remains and prepare for a funeral to send off their fallen comrade. Vlad had asked Mak to photograph everything, even if it looked insignificant take it anyway. He wanted to make sure there was ample information for Alex to work with. Not knowing what would be needed, Mak took the SD card from the camera and printed out everything. He stood collating the pictures when Marcus came in insisting he eat, leaving Mak his favorite thing; a cheeseburger! He inhaled it in three bites, barely tasting it but it soothed the growl in his stomach.

“Aye Mak, T says go get some sleep, tis gonna be an early start tonight and ye look like yer gonna fall out where yer standing.” Yeah Mak thought he could too. He didn’t dare close his eyes until his head hit the pillow. He gave Lachlan a nod and headed for the stairs. Annalese met him on the landing, clutching Lyla. The babe was fast asleep.

“I’m afraid Mak, for the first time I’m absolutely terrified. I can’t bear to put her down.” He understood her fear. She had two small children to worry for.

“Where is Michael?” She pointed to her suite and Mak left, returning with a sleeping boy in his arms.

“Lets put them in the nursery, I can shift and sleep on the floor. Come on, all I need is a couple blankets. I’ll be fine, stop with that worry face. Trust me I will be fine and you m’lady are exhausted.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

                                               DESTINY KNOCKS

 

Mak had spent his days sleep on the floor of the nursery, well aware that both Vlad and Annalese had come in several times to check on him and the children. Lachlan had come in right before he shifted thanking him for staying with the children. Mak needed no thanks, it was his job. That and he did adore both of them.

Annalese came in for the young ones, leaving Mak to catch a few more zzz's. He shifted back to human form after he was alone, tossing on his old sweatpants and relaxing back on the floor. He lay for a bit longer, feeling something different about the castle. Mak quite put his finger on it, but something was seriously different.

It took a few more minutes before it hit him, there was a scent he didn’t know. One so enticing it made the hair on his limbs stand on end. It was sweet, like cinnamon mixed with sugar. And something else, apples maybe. He inhaled deeply, it was definitely apples. Like a freshly baked pie. Had to be, nothing else could be so sinful and decadent. Mak grabbed his blankets and headed for the shower.

As he stepped under the spray he couldn’t help but notice how his body was reacting to the aroma surrounding him. Being male, waking erections were normal, but this one bordered on painful. He had never had this kind of reaction to anything. He was hard as granite and throbbing. Mak had no idea what the hell was going on with his body. He quickly finished his shower, finding a pair of jeans that wouldn’t cut off the circulation to his friend, who still hadn’t decided to relax back to its normal hibernating state.

A plain T-shirt and his boots and Mak was ready to figure out a few things. The first was what was happening in his world. Second was what was happening with him, why hadn’t his dick shrunk back down to It’s usual flaccid state. The first was a discussion with Lachlan and his father, the second was one for Annalese.

Mak knew he should feel odd having those type of talks with her, but she was the only one he could talk to about anything and everything. He wasn’t sure how he ever made it without her. In Turkey he tended to stay to himself, he took care of all his Beta duties. Mak just didn’t socialize much. Parties weren’t his thing, reading was Mak’s thing. He loved being caught up in a story or learning something new.

As he walked into the kitchen he knew. Nothing in this world could have prepared him for what hit him. Female. Mate. His. Mak stood frozen in place, looking into the eyes of her, his mate. He had no idea how he knew but the knot in his stomach and the uncomfortable stiffness in his jeans said it was certainly her. She was a tiny thing, at least a foot shorter than him. She was the most perfect, beautiful thing he had ever laid eyes on.

“Aye Mak, come meet Alex. Alex this is Mak.” She gave him a smile to melt the polar ice caps and Mak knew he was completely done for. He would follow her to Hell if need be.

“Hi Mak, Lachlan says you’re going to be my shadow until these murders are solved.” Mak nodded, not quite trusting his own voice. Thankfully Annalese stepped in and saved him any embarrassment.

“Mak is a wolf, best nose we have and he’s a little shy. Don’t take it personally. He’s the quiet one.”

“I am not quiet, I talk.” The entire room broke out in laughter. They all knew he didn’t share well, he wasn’t used to it. “I just wasn’t used to the openness in this house, now we talk about everything.” With the way Annalese was looking at him, she knew something was wrong and he needed to keep her from asking.

“Can we talk? It’s just a brief discussion.” Mak asked his friend, knowing she would never say no. She walked with him to the library and as he closed the doors she spoke.

“Ok Mak, spill it! What’s going on with you?” He took a breath, being able to breathe again. This was difficult to spit out but he knew he had to tell someone

“I am fairly certain Alex is my mate. I need to know how Lachlan knew. My heart is pounding out of my chest, I can barely breathe and I’ve got a fucking hard on that’s so hard it’s painful. Please Annalese, I need help!” Mak was wearing tracks in Vlad’s Persian rug. She knew Lachlan would be more help than she was, so using her bond she asked him to meet them in the library. Hey Lachlan, Mak needs some help. We’re in the library.

“I called Lachlan, he’s coming and Mak talk to him. Don’t get all shy and clam up. Tell him exactly what you’re feeling, ok?” It wasn’t ok but it would have to be, he needed help like he never had. Once he knew for sure he would have to find a way to tell her, if he could even find his voice. Lachlan stepped in and shut the doors behind him.

“Aye Mak, wats gooin on with ye?” Mak spilled his guts. Every last thought and feeling he was having. Lachlan sat across from him listening attentively, then abruptly stood and went to the liquor cabinet. Instead of grabbing glasses he just grabbed the bottle and handed it to Mak. He took two long pulls.

“She is isn’t she? Oh fuck! What do I do Lachlan? I’m supposed to work with her and all I want to do is kiss her! What the holy fuck is happening to me?” Lachlan remembered the first time he saw Annalese quite vividly. He still wanted to push her against the wall and kiss her breathlessly. How was he going to tell Mak it would never stop, that he would always feel this way. Once they found their mates, everything was different.

“Well Mak, from yer words I do believe she’s exactly what you think she is. Ye want me to talk to T? See if we can find someone else to do this?”

That was the last thing he wanted, this was hard enough talking about it to Lachlan. “No, I’ll find a way to deal with it. Maybe I’ll actually be able to talk to her, you know like a man should. Mother fuck me, this isn’t going to be easy is it?”  Mak really wasn’t looking for an answer, he had heard stories. Nothing he had heard could have prepared him for her. Instantly he knew he would die to protect her, no hesitation. She was his destiny. Mak was so lost in thought he didn’t hear Vlad come in.

“Son, what’s troubling you?” That brought him out of his haze. He stood, staring at Vlad. Every word he tried to form became stuck in his throat. Lachlan took over and explained the situation to Vlad.

“Aye T, seems Mak here believes Alex is his intended. He’s having a time of it.” Vlad gave his infamous nod, settling in his favorite chair that sat in front of the fireplace.

“Makhi, come sit and explain everything to me.” This wasn’t something he wanted to do for a third time but saying no to Vlad was never an option. Lachlan gave him a quick embrace.

“Congratulations Mak, some never find what you have. Welcome it, there’s nothing like finding the other half of your soul.” And with that Lachlan left them to have some privacy.

“I knew when I awoke, I could feel it. I just didn’t know what “it” was, but I felt a shift in the air. I could smell her, and my body reacted the way a man does. I had no idea why or what was happening until I saw her. Is this how it’s supposed to be? The way I feel, do you have these feelings for Annalese? I am so confused.” Vlad wanted to laugh, but he knew that would make Mak feel worse. And he understood exactly how Mak felt.

“Son I denied my feelings for a long time. I had a mate, or at least I thought I did so I did not allow myself to feel for her. But when I would sleep she was there, haunting me. Every time I closed my eyes I saw Annalese. It wasn’t until Sophia left that I truly understood the depths of my feelings, and even then I tried to keep my distance. She belonged to Lachlan despite the physicality we shared. Somehow he must have known we were meant to share her or we would not be as we are now. Vampires are very territorial when it comes to their mates. There was a point I expected Lachlan to take my head.” Mak was dumbfounded, this from Vlad. The strongest vampire ever. He was completely at a loss.

“I do not follow, did you and Lachlan fight over Annalese? Please explain this.” So Vlad told him the story of the day he made his confessions to Lachlan. Mak hung on every word. Listening to Vlad sounded like some made up story, considering who Vlad was. But Mak knew better, the prince would never intentionally make himself sound weak.

“So you really got down on your knees and waited for Lachlan to kill you?” He couldn’t picture Vlad bowing to Lachlan, or to any one for that matter. Vlad was the fiercest of the Vampires and would go down fighting.

“Yes son I did just that. I could not see how we could exist together and I not be able to love her the way I do. To show her how I feel. That day everything changed, Lachlan accepted my feelings for Annalese. It was the first time she and i made love, well all three of us but no matter. If Alex is yours, take it slow. You do have one very big advantage.” Mak gave him an odd look, there was only one thing he could think of.

“Yeah, I didn’t try to hump her leg.” Vlad and Mak both began to laugh, it was deep and hearty. Loud enough he was sure the entire castle had heard them. Vlad certainly wasn’t expecting that one.

“Your advantage son is she is quite comfortable in our world. She told Lachlan and let me remember it correctly, ah yes I remember. She said ‘holy shit, so that’s what sin looks like.’ So Mak she is quite attracted to you. This is a good thing son.” At least he knew she saw him as attractive, Mak himself never saw himself as special. He was just Mak. Vlad and Lachlan were both as beautiful as men could be and still look like men. Vlad had recently taken to a beard, it was about a weeks growth and somehow it made him look even more handsome. Lachlan had followed suit, Annalese said she really liked it. He couldn’t help but wonder what Alex would think of him like that. He was going to forego shaving and see what she thought. A small tap on the door got his attention, it was her.

“Hey, is it ok if I interrupt?” Vlad nodded, motioning for her to take a seat. Mak found his voice, shaky as it was.

“Yeah, of course.” He managed to get out. Vlad had opened his scotch and poured for himself, offering Alex a drink.

“Oh no, probably shouldn’t. I don’t drink much. I would like to walk the path where these were taken.” She had all the photos Mak had snapped in her hand. “There may be something I see you guys didn’t.” Vlad had already had a table brought in for her, a workspace so she could have a place. Alex spread out her paperwork and glanced up at Vlad.

“You’re not nearly as intimidating as I expected you to be.” He just chuckled.

“Then I am losing my touch, I will work on intimidating.” This time it was Alex who chuckled. He didn’t need to worry, the entire supernatural world was still terrified of him. Alex had planned to use the fact she had met him in the future if need be. She still wanted to take the walk, she looked up to find Mak staring at her. He just seemed lost looking at her.

“Hey Mak, are you ready?  I’m not used to the hours you guys keep so I’ll tire out soon.” He nodded, showing her to the door and gentlemanly holding it open for her. His manners would not allow anything else.

“So you’re the one the supes are all buzzing about.” Alex spoke matter of fact. Mak had no idea what she could possibly mean. From the look on his face it must have been obvious. “The newest member of the Dracul family, and you’re a shifter. That was a huge shocker for the vampire community.”

Mak  did not say much as they walked. The area where the body had been found was still roped off. Alex was looking at everything and Mak was trying not to stare. It wasn’t working. He was almost drooling she was so beautiful. Her big blue eyes sparkled in the moonlight. “Mak look at this.” She had knelt down and he did the same. The scent rolling off her was killing him slowly. The urge to take her right there and mark her was overwhelming. He knew better, but his erection had other ideas. “What do you see?” Alex asked him looking into the dirt walk way.

Mak studied the area where she was staring.  “Chaos, a struggle.”

“What else do you see Mak?” He knew he was missing something, he just kept staring and then he saw it.

“Son of a bitch! How could we have missed this!”

“You see it don’t you?” Mak definitely saw it, pulling out his phone and texting Vlad. This was monumental and he had no idea how they could have overlooked it.

“Fuck!” he yelled, frustrated. She put her hand on his arm, offering comfort.

“You were in shock, those photos were pretty grizzly.” Just that simple touch sent Mak’s libido into overdrive. He almost told her she was his mate. Thankfully Vlad arrived and saved him from utter embarrassment.

Alex showed him the discovery. “I am pretty sure the reason you didn’t notice it is because nobody ever expected a woman to be that strong. She had help, if you look there are two sets of prints and one is definitely too big to be female. Has the pack buried the wolf yet? I’d like to get some blood and tissue.” Vlad was uncertain on what the procedure was before a Lycan burial, so he quickly phoned Nico. They hadn’t buried him yet so Vlad made arrangements for Alex to go and get what she needed.

“Hey Mak, can you take me? I have no idea where I’m going and I would feel better if you were there.” That statement sent him soaring!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

                    IN THE COMPANY OF WOLVES

 

 

The two took Mak’s Rover to the pack lands, Vlad had let Nico know Mak was accompanying Alex. The drive wasn’t far, around thirty miles but the road was unpaved so Mak took it slow. He didn’t want to jostle her anymore than necessary. She was his mate, he knew it even if she didn’t yet.

“Alex, when we arrive please stick close. I am not an active member of the pack and I’d rather not have a fight. That is something you don’t need to witness.” She had no idea why he would have to fight. They were just going to get some samples weren’t they. Mak was trying to figure out a way to tell her without sounding like some crazy stalker.

“You’re unmated, and the male’s will know. It’s in your scent.” Again he got the odd stare, she  could not possibly understand. “Ok please don’t think I am a lunatic.” Mak waited until she gave him a mod of confirmation before he explained it. “You are by far the most enticing, beautiful woman I have ever seen. You’re scent is so sweet, it’s intoxicating.”

There he said it. He was waiting for a reaction when her perfect, pouty lips formed a smile, and then into a scowl.

“Do I smell like booze?”

“Oh no! Not even close, your scent is like nothing I’ve ever smelled before and some wolves are not gentleman. I couldn’t bear it if you were… treated badly.” Alex understood the unspoken word, rape. Only knowing for just mere hours, Alex knew Mak would never hurt her. He would do whatever was necessary to keep her safe. There was a strong, strange connection to the wolf. She needed to figure out why she felt so drawn to him, but until then she had planned to stick like glue.

“Mak can you do something for me when we get there?” His mind went racing, there were so many things he wanted to do for her, to her. The wolf was scratching, clawing at the surface just waiting to break free. He desperately wanted to claim his mate and Mak was fighting him. He drew a deep breath, trying his best to soothe the beast. He didn’t trust his voice, so he just did the single nod. Vlad had rubbed off on him. “Would you hold my hand? I’d really feel better if you were holding on to me. I’ve never be the lone human in a pack of wolf shifters. Besides, you make me feel safe.”

His mate felt safe with him. Just that simple statement caused Mak’s pride to swell. He felt his chest rumble, the sign of a content wolf. “Mak did you just growl at me? Did I say something wrong? Oh shit! The hand holding, do you have a girlfriend? Dammit I’m sorry, I never gave it a thought.” Mak shook his head, she was apologizing for something she  couldn’t possibly understand.

He pulled the Rover in front of Nico’s home, shutting off the key. Mak closed his eyes for just a second to fund his courage. “No Alex, I have no woman in my life. I have issues around females, Annalese is right. I normally do not talk.” He hadn’t made eye contact with her and Alex was betting he was extremely shy. This gorgeous wolf with the California surfer look, and from what she could tell from the way his shirt hugged his chest and torso; built like a brick house was shy. Instinct had her reaching out for him before she could stop herself.

   “Its ok Mak, I’m nervous around men too. I haven’t had a boyfriend in years.” Mak couldn’t fathom this beautiful creature being nervous, she oozed confidence.

“I have never had a girlfriend.” Mak hissed out through gritted teeth. She smelled so good and she was touching him. His dick had been hard since the first aroma of her hit his nose. Now her hand was on his arm and he was growing harder by the second. With Alex’s hand gently stroking his arm Mak had to bite the inside of his cheek to not detonate right there in the front seat. Even the flavor of copper wasn’t helping to quash the desire rising in him. “Alex,” he rasped. “My wolf, he wants you so badly. We need air, I need air.” He told her as he fell out the door of his SUV. Oh shit ! Alex practically dashed around the vehicle to get to him. “Mak, come on wolf talk to me. Fuck Mak say something, anything!” Shit what had she done! Alex had no idea he was having the same feelings as her, just ten times more intense since he was fighting his wolf. That’s the way it seemed anyway. He was visibly shaking and she wanted so badly to hold him. Wait, why did she feel the need to offer comfort? They had only met tonight but this need she had was all encompassing. She really needed to soothe him, reaching for his back. “Don’t eat me ok.” She laughed slightly as her hand made contact with his shoulder. Her gentle strokes seemed to be working. The shaking had stopped and he was almost breathing normally.

   “You did it Alex, you soothed him. I think I can control him now. I’ve never lost it like that, thank you.” His head was still down but at least his arms were at his side, not covering his face. She knew he was still too embarrassed to make eye contact with her. Alex understood most of it. Not the wolf part, but the feelings part. The nervousness. He said he’d never had a girlfriend. She wondered if that meant what she thought it did. Wow at that. This man could be exactly what she’d ben looking for.

   They had gotten what she needed from the body, Alex stayed tight to Mak. The alpha had given her quite the grin and Mak growled at him. Nico the alpha just laughed spouting something about not wanting a mate. Alex understood mating. The one person created to be the other half of a supes soul. Although today she saw different with Vlad, Lachlan and Annalese. For whatever reason it worked so who was she to question it. The trio looked so much in love.

   The ride back was quiet, Mak hummed a tune that sounded suspiciously like a lullaby. He wasn’t looking at her though. Somewhere today she had done something to upset Mak’s wolf, or that’s how it looked to her. He pulled up in front of the double doors, instead of the garage. That structure sat several hundred yards to the rear and it had started sleeting about half way back.

   “Stay put please.” He said to her as he got out and went to open the doors of Dracula’s Castle. As Mak opened her door instead of helping her down, he scooped her up and carried her to the sprawling front porch. “I cannot have you wet, you are a human and might get sick.” He put her down inside the door and headed to the library, Alex hot on his heels. They needed to talk, but he grabbed a bottle of something and lit out like he was on fire. He wasn’t going to make this easy.

 

 

 

 

                                 FIGURING OUT HER WOLF

 

   “Alex.” Vlad had come in, he was silent upon entry. She hadn’t heard a thing.

   “Hey,” she said trying her best to fake a smile. She knew he saw through it. Most vampires die that particular ability, but from what she’d heard Vlad had everything.

   “Did you get what you needed? And tell me, what has my son done to cause such a frown on a beautiful woman?”

   “Yeah I took a few vials of blood and got a few tissue samples. I’ll run them and see what they tell me. I have a few ideas though. As for the other I have no clue. I said something to upset  Mak’s wolf, I’m at a fucking loss.” Vlad motioned for her to take the chair next to his. He stood to pour a drink, and poured a second for her. She was going to need it.

  They sipped in silence for a number of minutes before Alex couldn’t take the quiet any longer. “Should I just leave him alone? This is making me nuts, I mean one minute he’s telling me I’m beautiful. The next he’s falling out the car door gasping. What’s happening?” Vlad knew he had to be clear, delicate but still clear.

   “My son is having a hard time right now. His world just upended and he is not sure how to handle it. Bear with him if you can.” Alex let Vlad’s words roll over and over in her mind. My wolf wants you so badly bounced around along with Vlad’s statement.

   “Oh shit!” he said nothing, just gave her that single nod he was so famous for. “That’s why I’m so drawn to him, Holy shit balls! Should I tell him I know? And he said he’s never had girlfriend, does that mean what I think it does?” Vlad gave her a small but sincere smile.

   “I cannot confirm nor deny anything. It is not for me to say, only Makhi can give you that answer.” Alex wanted to see Mak, to see if he would talk to her but she was exhausted and needed a few hours of sleep. The tests would wait.

   “Thank you, I think I understand everything now. I’m going to head to bed for a few hours.” Vlad watched as she climbed the stairs and headed towards the west wing where her apartment room was. She rounded the corner at the end of the long hallway and ran square into Mak, who’d obviously been waiting for her.

   “Mak, did you need something?” He just stood staring. Alex saw so many emotions on his face and longing in his eyes.

   “I…I want talk.” He barely got it out. She noticed the vodka bottle in his hand and knew he was drunk. It wasn’t bad drunk, more like a little liquid courage. She opened the door and invited him in, ushering him to the sofa.

   “Considering I’m sober and you’re anything but, how about I talk and you listen?” Mak nodded but the look on his face said he was terrified of what she might say. “All day I’ve felt warm and safe, even comforted. Then I saw you and those feeling became intensified. Your smile gives me butterflies and touching you sets my skin on fire. Somehow I did or said something wrong and you shut down. When we got back, you took off so I asked Vlad.”

   Oh holy fuck what could he have possibly said, Mak thought. He probably told her everything just to get him to man up.

   “He said you were having a hard time right now. It took me a few to figure things out. He said I had to ask you, it wasn’t his to tell. So I’m asking Mak, am I your mate?” His eyes wouldn’t met hers, she knew this had to be the hardest thing he’d ever done.

   “I think so, my wolf sure thinks so. I don’t have the first clue what to do either.” Alex could see the frightened look he had, and the dampness on his cheeks from tears. She pulled him to her and just held him. His arms went around her, not quite sure what he should be doing.

   “Its ok beautiful wolf, I’m scared too.” He pulled back to see her face.

   “Why would you be scared? You talk to me and it seems so natural. I… I… fuck I am not good at this. I want to kiss you so bad I just don’t know how.”

   “Mak I know, and it doesn’t matter. Actually I love it, my wolf and no one else has ever touched you. I want to be the only one.” Vlad was right… again. Alex didn’t care if he was sexually innocent, she still wanted him.

    “You must think destiny made a huge mistake.” She thought nothing of the sort, actually Alex thought destiny got it exactly right. She wasn’t actually experienced in the sex department either.

   “Mak of course I don’t, I’m not an expert either. For me it was only once and it was horrible. I decided to wait for the right guy and guess what? I found him Mak, you’re the right guy.” Mak leaned forward and initialed a kiss, his first real kiss. As their lips parted and tongues danced he felt the chest rumble again. He felt her arms around his neck and he knew he was doing something right.

   Mak was flying, his body felt sensations he never had before. The way her lips caressed his, her hand in his hair and one on his cheek. His jaw had just a hint of stubble and she was sweetly rubbing on it. How would he ever top this moment.

   She smiled as the kiss broke, her lips swollen and still tingling. “I have an idea on how we should handle this. Wanna hear it?” Alex knew he did, but she knew shifters and not asking would hurt his pride. “We have a job to do, that’s first and foremost, but when were not working on the case we need to spend time together. Get to know each other.” Mak thought that would be incredible. Just being in the same proximity as her was thrilling.

   Alex listened as Mak struggled to explain what was happening to him. “Have you ever thought of talking about this to that Alpha I met today? He seemed really open.” Mak knew Nico was, but explaining this to him wasn’t about to happen. He was already dying a slow death of embarrassment and there was no way this was going to become public knowledge. “Ok well finish what you were saying.”

  Mak froze, but just for a minute. “It is completely embarrassing, please don’t laugh.” Alex just took his hand, smiling at him. She had a feeling she already knew. “I am a wolf, so I should have known or at least expected it.” He stopped for a little more courage from his vodka bottle. “When I was un the shower tonight, trying to handle my problem; it happened. I freaked out for a few minutes.”

  “Mak stop.” He looked up at her. “Nobody ever told you anything did they? Holy shitballs, the mating knot. You knotted because I’m so close, it’s how you know.” His eyes were closed, head down but she got a confirmation nod. He was so much like Vlad. “I’ve been around this world almost my whole life. I know quite a bit about the world of shifters so ask me Mak. Let me help you.” She was so perfect, and Alex had no idea how much he already loved  her.

  “I am sorry for today, I’ve never come that close to losing it. Thank you. My wolf calms so much to your touch. Will you do something for me? Sleep beside me, touch me. Not sexually, just hold me.” Alex told him  she would and asked what room was his. “Meet me in the library, I need to apologize to my father.” Mak stood and kissed her forehead before heading out, leaving her to shower.

  Mak left Alex and headed to see Vlad. He was still in his spot in front of the fire, Macallan bottle in hand. “Son, are you feeling better?” He knew, Vlad always knew.

  “Yes and I owe you an apology. Alex said she was talking to you. I jumped the gun, thinking you had spilled my secrets and about the mating. She explained you didn’t, and I am sorry I doubted you.”

  Vlad stood to embrace his son. “It is nothing, do not worry my son. She does not think badly of you. Quite the opposite, Alex is smitten with you.” As Mak was with her. He told Vlad she was going to help him understand what was expected of him as a mate, and what he wasn’t taught. Vlad being a vampire could only help so much. Alex had much more experience with shifters in general.

  “What happened today Makhi? Alex said you were struggling. Talk to me.” So Mak told Vlad of the near shift, his loss of control and the knotting. He even had to explain it to him.

  “It is literally a knot that forms under the head of your dick. It swells so much it keeps your bodies locked together. It’s supposed to ensure pups, although I don’t believe that it does. Vlad kept asking questions, most Mak couldn’t answer. He knew Alex could, but his father talking sex with his future mate wasn’t something he wanted. Mak knew it was bound to happen though. They spoke a little while longer, then he smelled her.

  “Hey guys,” she smiled and Mak’s whole world lit up. He was in so deep now if she didn’t choose him back he didn’t think he’d survive.

  “Alex,” Vlad began. “How is it you are so well acquainted with our world? I am very curious.” She settled into the chair next to Vlad, Mak taking the floor in front of her. Alex explained how she lost her parents at five years old, and went to live with their best friends.

  “They were shifters, and although I had no idea they were very open with me. Supes 101.” She laughed. “I grew up around all different types of shifters. I was always a curious child so I asked tons of questions. At sixteen I got a summer job helping in a lab at the BSI. It just progressed from there. By the time I was eighteen I had a full time job working in the field. Oh Bureau of Supernatural Investigation, they’re part of your council.” Vlad knew that, but she was impressive never the less. She was the youngest in her position, and the only female to hold that title.

  “Tell me Alex, what kind of shifters are your family?” Vlad was curious to know.

  “Bears, grizzly. I grew up in northern Arizona. Bears need the woods, they have to shift at least once a week so it’s the perfect spot to live.”

  Mak reached out, touching her hand. He loved how her skin felt. “Did your biological parents want a boy? They named you Alex.”

  She just smiled at him, God he was adorable. His innocence was showing. “No wolf, my name is Alexis. I’ve been called Alex for as long as I can remember. And I was always a tomboy, so Alex suits me just fine.” She could see him mouthing Alexis, trying it out. Seeing how it felt on his lips. “What about you wolf, tell me your story. How did you end up here being Vlad’s heir?” This really wasn’t a story Mak wanted to tell. He knew he didn’t have much choice, if he didn’t tell her Vlad would.

  “Zhor my former Alpha found me when I was just a pup. He took me in and gave me a home. I lived with the pack, went to school, fought my way to Beta. It was a huge accomplishment for an orphan. I never really felt at home there. When I was given the assignment of protection of the princess I just thought it was that, an assignment. Then I met her. Never have I felt more acceptance from anyone. She didn’t care where I came from, and when I came here…” Mak had to stop, remembering the decision to stay and the day he got his name. Vlad knew he was struggling for words.

“My son had no last name, nothing to give his children. Annalese came to me with her proposal, I made it happen. Makhi is my son in every way that matters. His children will be my heirs. But most importantly, he is loved.” Wow, that was one incredible story. Vlad had a soft side. No one would ever believe this.

“You do realize the entire supernatural world thinks you’re cold and unfeeling, right?” Alex was still reeling from the tale. Vlad just grinned.

“Good, I prefer it that way.” And with that he left them to their privacy. Alex looked down at Mak, still sitting on the floor. He wore tartan pajamas and a torso hugging black T-shirt and bare feet. She scooted off the chair to sit with him.

“Hey sweet wolf, you ok?” His eyes were still brimming with tears.

“Yes. No. I am really not sure. I wanted you to be proud to have me, but now you know where I came from. Do you think badly of me now?” Alex climbed in his lap and kissed his forehead.

“Nope, never! Where you came from makes you who you are now. I couldn’t be happier your wolf chose me.” Mak was blown away again. This seemed to be a habit lately, shock Mak. It was happening so much he shouldn’t even flinch. He and Alex sat kissing for the longest time. Nothing Mak had ever experienced had felt like this. They were soft, like rose petals and so full. His dick had hardened again but this time he didn’t care. He was lost in her lips, nothing else mattered.

Mak scooped her up, his lips still attached to hers and carried her up the stairs. Tonight he would hold a woman as he slept, his woman. His mate.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

                   HOLDING PERFECTION

 

Alex lay curled up on her side, hand on Mak’s chest soundly sleeping. Her hair had become a toddler mess but in his eyes she was still perfection. Mak was trying to sleep, he really was but he was afraid she was a dream and if he closed his eyes shed disappear when he awoke. He rolled to face her, watching her as she slept. She made soft little mewing noises and it was killing him. 

He had taken three cold showers trying to rid himself of the raging erection he’d had the past twenty four hours. It hadn’t worked. Mak stood under the icy spray for a fourth time hoping it would finally do the trick. He desperately needed some relief, with her so close masturbation was out of the question. Alex might hear him and that thought mortified him. So he stood, hands against the wall and his head down under the frigid water. Mak was in such a trance trying to will it away he didn’t hear her step in behind him.

Alex wrapped her arms around him, Mak jumped ten feet.

“Shhh, do what you need to Mak. I’ll hold you, I know you need to wolf. Come on, four cold showers, handle your business and just let me hold on to you.” Mak had no idea if he could. Alex was here in the shower, naked behind him and telling him it was ok to masturbate.

Alex knew he was too embarrassed to do what needed to be done so as she kissed his back, she ran her hands up his chest and down his stomach until she was gripping him.  She gave a small upwards stroke and he almost lost his footing.

“I got you wolf.” She told him as she stroked again, this time with a tighter grip.

“Alex,” Mak hissed out. “Please!” He wasn’t sure exactly what he was asking for but her touch was Nirvana and he was so full. It didn’t take much more coaxing to have his legs shaking. Alex kept feathering light kisses on his back as she gently stroked his dick. Within just minutes hot jets coated her hand as Mak grunted out through gritted teeth.

“Fuck yes! More!” It came out before he could stop himself, but he wasn’t nearly as embarrassed as he expected. She held him through the aftershocks.

“Alex, I…” She kissed his shoulder again.

“Not a word need to be said, well except wow wolf you’re really packing!” She said as she quickly made her escape with his towel. After she had redressed in her pink pajamas, she brought him back his towel. When she stepped back into the bathroom she saw his face. He was blushing and covering himself with his shirt, that only endeared him to her more.

“Mak that was amazing, you’re beautiful.” Alex handed him his pants, letting him dress and took his hand. “Come on wolf, think you can sleep now?” Mak nodded.

“Yeah, I think I can.” As Alex drifted off she could have sworn she heard Mak say I love you Alexis.

 

 

 

 

 

 

                                                    CLUES

 

The next few days yielded plenty of information. Mak had been doing recon with Lachlan and Alex had been running tests on her samples. The test had provided more information than she was expecting and Vlad needed to see this. Alex had no idea where to locate the Prince so she wandered the castle until she stumbled upon him sitting at the breakfast bar, babbling to his daughter.

“Ah Alex, have you met my daughter yet?” Vlad asked her. The child was identical to her mother.

“Oh my! She’s gorgeous, may I?” She asked, holding out her arms. Vlad passed the babe.

“She likes you, she has not tried to bite you or scalp you.” He said with small laugh. She had the prince’s eyes, a deep amethyst color with thing gold flecks. Alex wondered if it was his bloodline or being a vampire that gave him the color.

“What’s her name? She’s a princess right?  It must be regal.” And it was regal, at least Vlad thought so.

“We names her after my mother Lillian, her name is Lyla.”

There had to be more to it than just Lyla, Alex was sure of it but she wondered if asking was overstepping her bounds so she let it go. She just held her close and watched the babe drift off to sleep thinking about children of her own. That was a first, Alex just didn’t think she would ever be a mom and now holding Lyla the thoughts hit her hard.

“You are quite good at that. I believe you will excel at motherhood when you have your own.” That got Alex thinking.

“I had great teachers the Isaacson’s are amazing people. Maybe one day you’ll get to meet them. And maybe one day I’ll have a dozen but until then we need to make the world a little safer. I have a few things to show you.” She glanced at the sleeping girl in her arms. “We should lay her down.” Vlad gave his now infamous nod.

“I have called Annalese, she will be here momentarily. Would you like coffee? The time change must be difficult to adjust to.”

“Oh lordy yes. Mak is a seriously restless sleeper so I haven’t gotten much.” Vlad smirked and raised a brow. Alex knew what he had to be thinking.

“Oh no!  Not that! We talked about it and decided to wait until we get this mess figured out. Neither one of us is in a rush since he’s never and it was only once for me years ago. At the moment it just seems more important to get to know each other and laugh.”

“And seriously make out in front of the fireplace.” Annalese had come in mid conversation and Alex was close to dying from embarrassment. “Don’t be shy, it’s a really good thing. He loves you, you know that right. Mak is completely in love with you. He might not be able to say it out loud but never doubt it.” She told her as she took her daughter and disappeared down the hall. Vlad got her attention.

“Let us go see what you’ve uncovered. I am really feeling the need for violence but do not tell Annalese. She is not fond of my darker side.” Alex followed Vlad to the library where she had her makeshift lab set up. Once she pulled out her papers and let him look she could see his blood starting to boil.

“How is this possible? We are all on high alert. It must be someone familiar with the supernaturals and our weaknesses. Liquid silver is something I have only seen once before.”

“I’m gonna make a guess here and say dart gun. It would allow whoever us doing this to incapacitate their victim from a distance. All the vamps I know are super strong and can overpower a human even in daylight so it has to be something like that. Anyway this bothers me Vlad. Mak and Lach are out there, can you call them back. They have no idea what’s going on and are in danger. Somebody is going to great lengths to get your attention.”

Yes they were and the prince was pissed. “Trust me they have my undivided attention and when I find them they will pray for death.” Vlad sent Lachlan a text to return home, Alex was right. This was getting personal and as prince everything they needed could be delivered. Family always came first.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

                                          GIRL TIME

 

 

Alex had been reading anything and everything she could find on liquefying silver and how it would affect the supes. Those poor fairies never has a chance. Lachlan and Mak had returned hours before and Alex had hoped to see Mak but he hadn’t stopped by the library to see her. He had been overly quiet since the shower and she just couldn’t figure him out.

“Hey girl.” Annalese had appeared in the doorway. It took Alex a minute to shake off and clear her head if Mak.

“Hi.” She smiled at her. Annalese had a way if making everyone around her smile.

“So,” she began. “It’s date night and the men always take me to Augustino’s. Since we’re on lock down I was thinking a table for five on the back patio. I already asked Vlad and Lachlan, they said it was a great idea; so are you in?” That was the first time Alex had thought about food in hours.

“What’s Augustino’s?” She hoped is was something at least decent. The rumble in her stomach was getting loud.

“Only the best Italian food you’ll have outside of Italy. The lobster linguini is to die for.” That had Alex salivating. Annalese was still going in about food and desserts but all Alex could think about was that lobster linguini she had mentioned.

“So Alex, what do you think? Augustino will deliver to us, I already asked him.” Annalese was so giddy there was no way Alex was going to say no.

“Ok sure, what time are we eating?” That’s when Annalese started grinning even more.

“Just as soon as I get you fixed. This is a date you know. The first one you’ll be having with Mak and I want it to be perfect. Vlad has Mak so I have you.”

This sounded like one huge set up but the funny part was it sounded like fun. Getting to dress up and seeing Mak in something other than jeans sounded amazing.

She and Annalese climbed the main stairs side by side. The princess had the Cheshire cat smile on her face. Alex was almost afraid of what she had planned.

“Won’t it be too cold on the patio?” Late November highs were barely fifty, plus it was still a sleeting.

“Nope, Vlad had standing propane heaters brought in for me and there is a huge stone fireplace. Maybe you’ll have to get Mak to warm you up. Annalese giggled, knowing Mak could most definitely warm Alex up.

“Can I ask you something? Alex watched Annalese smile and nod. “How do I deal with that wolf? He’s so sweet but he’s gotten very quiet lately. The other night I swear he said I love you Alexis, but now nothing. It’s making me crazy.”

Annalese knew just how she felt, remembering when Vlad had pulled away from her. “Let me tell you a story.” She fixed Alex’s hair as she told the tale of meeting Lachlan and winding up in Romania and of her friendship with Vlad. “We were as close as friends could be. I had no idea before Sophia left but he told me not long after. Then when he left to sort things out I knew. Not only did I love Lach, I also loved Vlad. Even after he came back from Turkey he was extremely distant. He shut down and I couldn’t feel anything from him.”

Shut down? Feel anything? Alex was confused to say the least then it hit her. “Are you blood bonded?  Wait that’s a dumb question, of course you are but were you then?” Annalese nodded with that smile only she had.

“Yes we were bonded but I’m also an empath so I feel everything. These men, well they’re complicated, strong and fierce. They think they have to always be like that, we have to show them it’s ok to be soft. With Mak,  he just needs reassurance. Let him know you’re proud to be his. He’s had a rough life, not really feeling like he belonged anywhere. He really is one of the good guys.”

Alex already understood that. Sweet, kind and so shy. It just made her want him that much more. Mak was everything a girl could ask for in a man.

“Do you love him yet? I fell for Lachlan in just a couple days. It’s been a week, feeling it yet?” Alex tried to hide the blush but she knew her pink cheeks couldn’t be concealed. She was definitely feeling it, Alex knew she loved Mak. No doubts, no hesitation, not one. But being so fast she wasn’t sure if he felt it too. He said she was his mate but did that mean he loved her. “I do, but I’m not sure he does.”

“Oh Alex,  he’s got it ten times worse than you do. Mak is just a little embarrassed about your shower the other night.” Alex was dying a slow death at Annalese’s dressing table. “Now don’t freak, I’m probably the only one he can talk to about these things. I know he wants to wait until the right time for both of you and I think that’s commendable but he realizes his body will fight him, so it’s suffer or handle it himself.” Alex wanted it to be the right time now but she had waited this long and when they finally made love, she wanted it to be perfect.

 

 

                                                          MALE BONDING

Mak sat in the library next to Lachlan and Vlad, knowing this whole dinner thing was a giant set-up but thinking of Alex in a dress was almost as delicious as her kisses so he indulged them. The vodka in his hand hadn’t been touched, his nerves were frazzled.

“Son,” the sound of Vlad’s voice got his attention. “I have something for you, well in reality it is for Alexis.” Vlad pushed a little plush black box across his desk and into Mak’s hands.

“That my son is what every woman in this family wears. Open it please.” Mak cracked the box top and saw a ring. As he fully opened it a gasp escaped his lips. The largest Ruby he had ever seen was staring back at him. Vlad’s crest was etched into the stone. The ring was stunning, Lachlan and Vlad both were speaking but he didn’t hear a word.

“Time to make this official my son. Ask her to marry you and be your mate. We all know you love her, that is quite obvious. And as Annalese pointed out, Alexis is very much in love with you. Ask her Makhi, unless you do not want her that is.”

“Not want her? Not likely father. I need Alexis more than I need to breathe. What if I ask her and she says no, or what happens when she says yes but won’t stay here in Romania? This is my home, I can’t leave here.” Vlad knew Mak would never leave home but he also knew Alex wouldn’t say no. They had many conversations and the Prince knew deep in his soul Alex was the one for his son.

“Ask her Makhi,  trust me on this one.” Mak slipped the box in his coat pocket as he stood up. Vlad had dressed him almost identical to his attire, all in black and finished the ensemble with a long black dinner coat. Looking at himself Mak actually liked what he saw. Hopefully so would Alexis.

“We are being summoned to the stairs, let us go see what we have been waiting on.” Vlad said as he opened the double doors to his library.

Annalese was first, wearing as  simplified long sleeved red gown, one that hung on every curve she had. Vlad felt his heartbeat pick up, there would never come a time when he would cease to love her. She was the most beautiful woman he had ever laid eyes on. Lachlan stood with the same look on his face. They had chosen well.

Mak stood waiting patiently for Alex but she was nowhere to be seen. “Pita where is She? Did she change her mind?” The panic was evident on his face.

“Calm down wolf boy, she’s just waiting for my cue. Ok Alex he’s ready.”

There she was, standing at the top of the stairs, the most perfect, beautiful thing he had ever seen. She was dressed in a black silk gown and Annalese had fixed her hair in a chignon knot at the base of her head. Alex was a vision. He took the stairs two at a time to meet her.

“Oh wow Alex, you…you…ah shit, you look beautiful.” Mak bent to kiss her cheek, anything else would have been improper. Alexis was a lady and needed to be treated as such.

“Hey wolf, before we go down there I need to say something.” Mak didn’t like that, it sounded ominous. He felt his eyes filling up just at the thought.

“Mak don’t, it’s not bad. I know they can hear us but I wanted the illusion of privacy. Mak I’m in love with you, I know it’s fast but I can’t help what I feel.” At that point he lost it, full blown tears. There was so much to say but words escaped him so instead he just pulled her close and held on. Soon his lips met hers and Mak blocked out everything and savored the moment. The softness of her lips on his caused him to grow hard again but this time he didn’t care, he wasn’t embarrassed. As they broke he didn’t pull back, keeping his lips against Alex's forehead.

“Marry me Alex.” His words were no more than a whisper, meant only for her. “Be mine forever, I love you Alex,  please.” Alex had to pinch herself to be sure this was really happening.

“Mak are you serious?” Her heart was slamming in her chest.

“Very, I need you. I cannot promise to be perfect but I can promise to always love you and care for you. Alex please marry me, take my mark. Fuck! I have no idea if I’m doing this right.” Alex couldn't control the tears any longer, they fell down her cheeks as she looked up at him.

“Mak you’re already perfect, you’re everything I could ever want or need. Yes you silly wolf, of course I’ll marry you.” Mak reached into his trouser pocket for the box Vlad had given him.

“This has Vlad's crest. You’re part of the family now, part of me; the best part of me. I’d very much like it if you wore this as an engagement ring.” Alex stared in  awe of the stone as Mak slipped it on her left finger. Cheers erupted at the bottom of the staircase signaling they weren't alone.

“I know all the escape routes if you want to run.” Mak said jokingly.

Dinner was just as amazing as Annalese said it would be. Alex was laughing at Lachlan as he gorged on cannoli. Alex was shocked he wasn’t ill with all that sugar running through his veins. Everyone was engaged in conversation, even Mak. He had leaned over, kissing her cheek and whispering I love you; knowing the vampires could hear him. They ignored the young lovers and continued their discussion until Vlad stood.

“Makhi a moment.” Alex smiled at her man, knowing the Prince wasn’t really asking. Vlad asking meant get off your ass and do what I say. He was the Prince of the vampires and very few defied him, that included Mak. Her Mak, that was still sinking in as she stared at the ruby on her finger.

“Aye Alex, welcome to the family. How do ye feel?” She thought about it for a few minutes and it felt pretty damn good.

“Lach it’s insane how I can so much so fast. I mean I know it’s fast for supes but I had no idea it would be like that for me. Maybe it’s because I was raised with bears. Anyway on a totally different note, I’d really like to strangled this Zhor. Poor Mak has no idea how to be a male wolf, like none. From what Vlad said Mak is an amazing fighter but he doesn’t know anything else if you get my meaning.” Both he and Lese knew exactly what she meant, it was shocking how innocent Makhi was. Nico’s pack taught the young males everything they needed to know about what it meant to be a male wolf. Nico oozed sex and made no bones about his love of women. He rarely took the same one twice, wanting a no strings attached kind of relationship.

His cousin Zhor was also unmated but a complete opposite of Nico. He occasionally had the one night stands but only when his wolf wouldn’t rest and never in his home.

Alex watched the dynamic between Mak and Vlad, curious about what the conversation was over. She could see the look of shock and awe on the face of Mak. Whatever the prince was saying, it had to be good.

“Son, I am very proud of you and I believe you will make a good mate for Alexis;  and she for you. She is quite the firecracker, do not give her any shit,” the prince chuckled. “I believe she will bury you.” Mak agreed. Alex was the youngest in her position and the only female to achieve field supervisor, he knew she could kick ass when needed.

“I have a proposal for you son. Annalese and I have chosen the Yule Ball to exchange our vows. We would consider it an honor if you and Alexis shared our day. Obviously you would need to speak with Alexis about this, but we would love if you two took your vows with us.” Again with the shock Mak, Vlad asking him to share their ceremony and have a double mating. He had no words for how he was feeling, none.

“Father, I…” there were so many things he wanted to say but in usual Mak fashion, he had nothing. His voice had escaped him once again. Vlad stepped in to embrace his son.

“Good, I will tell Annalese you will think on it and discuss it with Alexis.” As Vlad pulled away he smiled. Smiling was a rare occurrence for the dark prince.

“One more thing and we can return to our women. I spoke to Cyrus earlier this evening and your mate has impressed the old bastard. He would like her to run lead over the six teams of special investigators here in Romania. It is quite a jump for her career wise. I said I would relay the message. And obviously her pay increase would be substantial, not that she will need it. You have more than she could ever spend.” Mak was dumbfounded, he had no money. Vlad was filthy rich but Mak, well he barely scraped by.

“How in the hell do I have money? I have what Zhor paid me for my Beta duties and that wouldn’t even cover this dinner.” Vlad started to laugh, another rare sight.

“Son you do a job here daily and I never handed you payment for guarding Annalese in Turkey, and I do pay well.” The prince cracked a half smile and handed Mak a bank book. “Open it son, it is yours. You earned it and you will receive a deposit at the beginning of each month. Like I said already, I pay well; very well.”

Mak opened the book and his jaw hit the floor. Never in his life has he seen so many zero’s. Holy fucking Hades, Vlad had lost his mind. First a credit card with no limit, then his SUV that had to have cost close to one hundred thousand dollars and now a bank account with ten million dollars in it. Yep, Vlad had gone bat shit crazy.

“I can’t, this…it’s way too much. I don’t deserve this.” The scowl that crossed the prince’s face made Mak take a step back.

“Oh you can, and more so Makhi; you will. You are taking a mate. That means you will want things for her and I can only hope for more babies in our home. This is but a drop in the bucket son. I could live for another thousand years and not run out of money. I have hundreds of investments and even more businesses I own stock in. Trust me son, your salary will not hurt. Please take it.”

This time is was Mak’s turn to hug his father. Vlad had opened his home and his heart, Mak could actually feel the love Vlad had for him. It was mind blowing.

“Oh son before I forget, we need to do a blood bond and one with Alexis if you will allow it. It would make me feel better that either one if you can reach for me if need be.” Mak had been expecting that. It actually surprised him it took this long for Vlad to ask. Mak knew Vlad wasn’t asking when it came to him. But he was when it came to Alex. He nodded and they started walking back towards the patio, that’s when the stench of copper and iron hit Mak.

“Vlad.” He stopped and looked at Mak, his nostrils flaring. He smelled it too and it was fresh, blood.

“Lach, get Annalese inside! Tell Alexis to change clothes, we’ve got blood and from Mak's nose it’s substantial.

Alex looked to Mak who nodded, that’s all the confirmation she needed; running for the door. Mak assumed she went to change but Alex appeared too quickly. She hadn’t changed clothes, just traded stiletto shoes for mud boots. She had been smart enough to grab a coat, putting it on as she made her way to the men. Pulling a flashlight out of her pocket she lit her way through the night. Alex knew they didn’t need light, supes had extraordinary eyesight whether day or night. Alex was a human with normal eyesight.

She let Mak lead, intertwining her fingers with his and even with the flush that came over his face, he didn’t pull away. Vlad was right on her opposite side, just to keep her safe. When Mak let go they knew he had something.

“Stay here please, just for a moment until I know what we're dealing with.” He walked several more yards into the trees.

“You make him happy, thank you.” Vlad had the look of contentment on his face.

“Trust me the feeling is very mutual or I wouldn’t be giving up a job I worked so hard to get.”

“Ah yes,” Vlad had been too distracted by the blood to relay the offer from the Council. “You have a job here should you choose it. Cyrus sits on the Council and would like you to head the special investigators here in Bucharest. I believe he said six teams of special ops here.”

Wow was all Alex could think before Mak came back through the tree line. By his face it wasn’t good. “This may be something you don’t need to see Alex.” She appreciated him trying to protect her but this was her job and she had seen so many grizzly things on the job this would just be one more to add to the list.

“I’m good wolf, let’s see what we have.” As they emerged on the other side of the tree line Alex saw the victim, brushing passed them to examine the body. She knelt down next to it, seeing the victim had been female and a vampire. Her head fell off to one side, nearly severed but was the most shocking part was the writing. Someone had written across her torso in blood. You’re next was neatly ascribed and Alex knew it was meant for Vlad. Mak wasn’t saying anything, knowing when to speak and when not to. Alex however had words.

“What the fuck Vlad! Whoever this is wants you in a bad way, who would hate you this much?” Vlad had a list as long as his arm of enemies who hated him that much but this wasn’t their style. His enemies came at him straight, this was someone who was meek, possibly afraid of his retaliation. He looked once more at the woman lying dead at his feet, her name was Irina and she sat on the Council. He had known her for nearly three centuries, she was kind and fair. By no way did she deserve a death like this. He faintly heard Alex who was still grilling him.

“Vlad! You do realize every victim has some connection directly to you. You know who's doing this, think!” Vlad furrowed his brow, knowing she was right. Every body led straight back to him. As he racked his brain the light went on, it had to be her.

“Son, take Alexis back to the house. I know who it is, at least I believe I do. I need to call Cyrus, the Council has to be notified.” Mak started to take her hand but Alex pulled away.

“Who Vlad! Who is doing this!” Alex shouted at him. He let the disrespect go in light of things.

“Selene, she is Sophia’s sister. She is the only person who could be this bold and hate me this much.” Then the Prince proceeded to explain everything to Alex, including the fact he killed Sophia.

Now things were making sense, the killings weren’t random, each one calculated and planned to the last detail. Alex knew the prime target was standing in front of her. “Make your call, were staying right here. She’s after you Vlad and I’m not leaving you out here where you’re vulnerable.”

Vlad nodded, making his call and alerting the Council on the latest findings. When he hung up he just chuckled, Vlad was never vulnerable but he chose to humor Alex. He started hatching the plan to close in on Selene as the trio walked back to the castle. Vlad knew her, Selene was as predictable as Sophia was and that’s how he was going to catch her. He just needed something to bait the trap, and the proper scenario to spring it.

 

 

 

 

 

                                     SETTING THE TRAP

 

Inside the castle walls Vlad was pouring himself a drink while Alex needed to change so she headed to the stairs. It was close to dawn and her bed was calling but there were things that had to be finalized. She heard Mak calling her name despite being exhausted. “Alexis wait.” She stopped and waited.

“What’s up wolf?” Mak warmed inside. He loved when she called him that, it felt special.

“I just need to hold you.” Alex nodded, stepping into his arms. He smelled good; spicy and woodsy. Mak smelled like a man, definitely all male. “Alex,” he whispered breathlessly. His reactions to her made Alex smile, she couldn’t help but love it.

“I’m just going to change clothes Mak, I’ll be right back down.” He hadn’t loosened his hold on her and she guessed the nights events were bothering him. “The house is safe Mak, right?” She could feel him nodding but his hold on her stayed tight.

“Christ you two, get a room.” Nico strolled by on his way to the library to speak with Vlad. His comment made Alex giggle.

“Would you feel better escorting me Mak?” He finally released his hold on her.

“Yes,” he told her as he took her hand and lead her up the stairs.

While Alex changed Mak told her about the blood bonding and to his surprise she accepted quite quickly, the ceremony was different story. He felt her hesitation. “What is it Alexis? Is it too soon?”

Silly wolf that he was. “No Mak, not even close. I would feel like I was intruding, mating is a big deal and that’s their special day. I’d rather pick a day for us, you know what I mean?” He did, and one day stood out in his mind.

“What about New Years Eve? It feels like the right day for us and I’ll tell Vlad and Annalese we're honored but would rather let them have the day to themselves. Don’t worry, my father will understand.”

While Alex took a minute in the little girls room, Mak went and changed too. He put on the jeans he knew she loved, the ones that hugged his hips and made his ass look so good. The shirt was a Mak special, a Tee that clung to all the ripples down his stomach. He didn’t bother with shoes, wearing them only if he was leaving the castle.

He met Alex in the hall, knowing she was staring at him. Mak had never been stared at in his entire life but this woman was doing just that and it made him blush. He felt the heat in his cheeks, maybe one day he would be confident enough that blushing didn’t happen. For now all he could do was hide his face and hope Alex didn’t notice.

The men had gathered in the library, discussing strategies when Mak and Alex stepped in. After listening to what Vlad had in mind, Mak had some serious objections.

 “Father, I don’t like this. We need something else, anything else.  Alex is too important to be to be used as bait. She’s mine!” Mak's voice was several octaves higher than normal and he was having a major breakdown. The plan was to draw Selene and whoever was helping her out using Alex as the bait. Mak couldn’t deal, it was too much and his wolf was so close to the surface. Alex saw the feral look in his eye right before he bolted for the main door.

Alex caught Mak from behind on the front lawn, bringing him down on his knees. Alex remembered the last time he freaked out so she repeated those same steps.

“Hey wolf, it’s ok. I’m here Mak, just breathe.” Gently rubbing his back, Alex hoped the trick would work once again. “Come on sweet wolf, you can do this. Find your center Mak, take a deep breath.”

Alex kept her voice soft and soothing, it took what seemed like forever but Mak finally stopped shaking. “Wolf look at me.” He hesitated just for a moment, knowing he would do just about anything she asked. “Mak I’ve been at this for a while now and I know how to handle myself. Plus Vlad will be there so I won’t be alone, trust him to keep me safe.” Mak was still visibly shaken, having had to fight his wolf for control. Alex couldn’t imagine living with a beast inside her but the bears she grew up with did it every day.

“Alexis I can’t lose you, it would end me.” He pulled her in close and just held on, even feeling the dew on the grass through his pants didn’t deter him from holding her tight. Mak felt her hands run through his hair and her cheek rub on his. She giggled, the few days growth tickled her.

“I really like the scruff by the way, it’s kinda sexy but it does tickle.” Mak pulled back just far enough to see the sparkle in her eyes, she really did love him.

“I’m sorry I lost it, you’re right Alex; I need to have more faith in you and in my father. It’s just I’ve never given that much control to anyone.” She understood that,  wolves were all about control. Mak was more like Vlad than he knew.

“I think you owe Vlad an apology, stay here. This needs to be done in private.” He agreed, having to swallow his pride and apologize was going to suck no matter how you looked at it. Doing it in private would help just a little bit.

Mak watched as Alex entered the castle, leaving the door open. She returned quickly with Vlad by her side. As they approached him he felt a sharp sting, then the burning started. It took mere seconds for the screaming to begin as Mak collapsed to his knees once more.

 

 

 

 

                    

 

 

 

                             THE   PATIENT

 

There were voices but he couldn't hear what was being said, someone was screaming. No, not someone; him. It was excruciating, like his first shift. Mak felt himself being ripped out of his body, but unlike the shift; this pain wasn’t ending.

“Alexis, what do we need to do? He cannot die!” Vlad was angry but more so he was frightened. Alex saw the look, knowing exactly what it meant.

“We need to get him upstairs and sedate the hell out of him. He needs a transfusion, it’s the only way to lessen the effects of the silver poisoning.” Nico tossed a kicking and screaming Mak over his shoulder, heading towards the castle. Alex led the charge, verbally listing off what had to be done. It was more for her than them, only having done this one other time. That was for an accidental overdose, and not on a supes. This was going to be a challenge.

“We need Ketamine,  it’s the only drug I know works on supes. Nico, can you find it?” The alpha just grinned, he could find anything. Nico had connections all over eastern Europe.

“Alex can Mak have vampire blood?” Vlad needed to know.

“Aye canna he take ours?” Lachlan was just as concerned. She nodded, mentally noting one point from each vampire, one from the alpha and one from herself should be enough to dilute whatever silver was in his body.

“This is a process; his body will need time to adjust after each pint, it’s gonna take a couple days to complete it. We should make him comfortable, or at least try. His pajama  pants are probably hanging on the back of the bathroom door.”

Annalese stood in the doorway watching the chaos.

“Is there something I can do to help? Mak is family.” Oh yeah, she could help, Alex needed all hands on deck.

“There’s a medical bag in my room, it has pain meds in it. Bring alcohol, whatever kind he likes. At this point gasoline is good.” Annalese smiled and sped off.

Lachlan had found the pajama pants Alex had asked for.

“Ok sweet wolf, we're gonna make you more comfortable so you’d better have something on under these jeans or you’re going to giving everyone a show.” As Alex popped the button on his jeans she saw a waistband and audibly exhaled. The zipper made a hissing sound as she pulled it down. Mak was still screaming and Vlad was holding his upper body as Lachlan held the lower. They were concerned he would accidentally hurt Alex.

Nico arrived back as Alex was changing Mak. “How much should I give him?” Alex loved how these people all came together in crisis.

“Try twenty mil to start. I know fifty puts the average vamp out for eight hours so let’s go easy on my wolf.” Nico caught the reference, she had to be his mate. That’s why Mak growled at him.

“He’s a lucky Bastards, you’re one helluva woman.” Alex smiled and crawled up the bed, holding Mak down.

“Ok wolf, we’re gonna give you something to relax you, hopefully it eases the pain some. Nico needs your arm, can you do that? Mak, come on wolf.” He had so much fight still in him.

“I’m not leaving you!” he managed to grunt out as Nico somehow got the needle in Mak's arm. It took just seconds for the K to start working.

“You can let him go, he won’t hurt me now.” Vlad released his hold and stepped away. Lachlan lit the fireplace and the men chatted amongst themselves. Alex really didn’t care what they were talking about, she had to tend to Mak.

“Hey sweet wolf, how’s the pain now?” The Special K had relieved some, that she could tell.

“Excruciating, nothing has ever hurt quite this much.” His voice was down to whispers, it was all he could muster.

“Ok mate, you’re gonna lean up and take some heavy duty painkillers and drink this vodka Annalese brought. We need to transfer you, and it’s going to suck balls so you need to sleep through it if possible. God Mak, I am so sorry.” He gripped her hand tight.

“Please don’t put me out, I’ll be ok if I know you’re here.” What voice he had left was raspy and raw. She agreed on one condition, he had to take at least one pill.

After Annalese helped Alex with Mak she excused herself to be with Vlad and Lachlan.

“Alex,” it was barely audible, causing her to lean in as close as she could. “I love you, more than my own life. I need you more than breathing. Make them leave, I don’t want to die without knowing how you feel on my skin. I’m not leaving this world a virgin, please!”

“Shhh my mate, nobody is dying here. I know it probably feels like it but you sweet wolf are going to live. I want babies, lots of them; got it. You’re going to give me beautiful babies. Now try to rest while I talk to Vlad.” Mak nodded and let his eyes close, it took mere seconds for him to fall out.

As Alex joined the group, Nico shot her a look. “Did he say what I think he did?” Well shit, she thought they were too engaged in conversation to overhear them.

“Please Nico, just let that go. Pretend you didn’t hear him, he’d die of embarrassment if he knew you heard him.” Nico just shook his head.

“How is this even possible? He’s a damn wolf.” She was aware and also knew his former Alpha was to blame. “I’ll handle my cousin, when Mak is better I’ll talk to him. He might be pissed I know but he'll get over it. He needs to know how to be a male wolf.” Nico was right, he could help Mak much more than she could.

 

 

 

                                      THE  HEALING   PROCESS

 

Vlad had been the first to donate, standing over his son as Alex started the process of removing the tainted blood and adding clean blood. It took a couple hours to complete the first round, but with Mak drugged up he was almost comfortable. Alex hadn’t stepped away in hours.

“Alex,” Annalese had such a soft voice. Alex understood how she could calm the men even when they had a tantrum. “I’m going to bring up coffee, just cream for you right?” Even amongst all the chaos she was still trying to keep some semblance of order. Alex nodded, not taking her eyes off Mak.

“Annalese,” Alex stopped her before she left. “Thank you.” The princess smiled, knowing why she thanked her.

Finally after thirty six grueling hours the blood was complete. Alex was dead on her feet but that didn’t matter, Mak needed her; that mattered. He had finally succumbed to exhaustion and she was damn close. Sitting on the foot of the bed, Alex stared at Mak. Even after everything he’d been through he was still beautiful.

“Hey, how’s our patient?” Annalese had snuck in while Alex was in la-la land.

“He finally caved, I can’t believe it took him as long as it did. He fought sleep but that’s what his body needs. I guess the body won over his stubbornness.” Mak was a typical wolf, stubborn to the core.

“If you want a break I’ll be happy to sit with him. I’m sure you could use a few minutes.” Alex did need one but leaving Mak made her nervous.

“You know what, yeah just a few minutes. I definitely need a shower and five minutes to talk to Vlad. I’ll be quick and I have my phone.”

“Go, he’s going to be fine.” Alex hugged Annalese and tore out of the room and down the staircase. She found Vlad in his usual spot with Lachlan and Nico. From the sounds of things they had altered the plan considering Mak's condition.

“Can I join the party? I could really use a drink.” Before she could process it, Vlad had her in a bear hug.

“Ok what’s this for Oh scary one?” She said as she hugged him back. He chuckled, Alex had amusing names for him.

“You saved my son’s life, I owe you Alex.” He owed her? Not in a million years.

“No you don’t, Mak is my world. I just didn’t fully comprehend it until we almost lost him.” The other two men took turns hugging her, making sure she knew how much she meant to all of them.

“How long will his recovery be?” Vlad needed to be in the loop on everything, including this.

“That’s a guess on my part. Shifters heal incredibly fast but this was definitely more than a broken bone so I’m thinking at least a week. It really depends on Mak and his body.” The Prince nodded, you could see the wheels turning. His mind was never at rest. Alex assumed to be in his position you had to be on guard at all times.

“I’ve been thinking about the plan and I think I’ve got an idea that will work but I really need a shower so can you give me ten minutes then meet me in Mak's suite? All of you, I think that’s the only way to pull this off.”

Alex must have been in the shower longer than she thought because by the time she returned the men were all there chatting. Annalese updated her, letting her know he hadn’t moved. That was a good thing, Mak's body had taken over and the healing had begun.

“Aye Alex, what’s tis plan yer working up?” Lachlan had known Alex since she started working for the BSI.

“It’s something that Annalese said, about when you sent her to Turkey. Why couldn’t we do something like that, let it slip that Mak is in a coma and you had to leave on urgent business. Bait the trap and see who bites.” Nico let out a deep belly laugh, Alex knew her plan was good.

“Damn bloodsucker, she’s great. Alex I like how you think, it’s perfect. Use you both but be in control. Genius girl, fucking genius.” Vlad and Lachlan thought so too, excusing themselves to further discuss the how’s. Alex gingerly climbed in bed next to Mak, getting as close as she could without disturbing him. Funny how he still smelled like Mak, even with everything he had been through. She had just started to drift off when she felt fingertips on her hand. “Alex.” Mak whispered as he fell out again.

Over the next few days Mak had been in and out, the trauma to his body had caught up. He’d only been awake long enough to drink a little and take medicine. The tainted blood left in his system was slowly being destroyed by his shifter healing. Everyone had taken shifts keeping an eye on him. Vlad had brought his iPad so he could conduct business as he kept watch over his son. Annalese had come to bring food to Vlad who had been neglecting himself during the chaos.

“Hey baby, Marcus made you a plate. You need to eat and I know you need blood. Lachlan fed yesterday so I’m strong enough.” Vlad just smiled at her, she was his rock. He knew before the topper came off what was under it, orange cream crepes with rum sauce; one of his favorites.

“Did you talk him into these so I would eat my love?” Of course he knew she did, just as she knew he wouldn't pass on them. He did need to eat, it had been two long days and scotch wasn’t cutting it. Then a soft voice came from the bed.

“Food... crepes.” The scent had woken Mak and from the sounds of it, he was hungry. Hunger was a good sign, it meant he was healing.

“Let’s get you sat up and have Marcus fix a bed tray.” Vlad said as Annalese made a call downstairs to order food. “There’s coffee on of course.” They watched as Mak shook his head. Vlad chuckled, knowing what his son was going to ask for.

“Milk… please.” He was still struggling to talk but thankfully vampire hearing was exceptional. Vlad sent Alex a message letting her know not only was Makhi awake but prepare the cow. The running joke was Vlad was going to buy a dairy farm just to keep Mak supplied.

“Can I have eggs too, I’m starving.” Yep their Mak was on the mend. He saw Alex appear in the doorway and lit up.

“Hey Wolf, you look so much better. Let’s use a straw for this.” She told him as she poured the milk. Normally he would just drink from the gallon but they all knew picking it up wasn’t going to happen.

Mak didn’t argue as he worked on the plate left in front if him. Just feeding himself was taking more energy than he has stored. It took close to an hour but he managed to eat everything, including the eggs that Marcus brought up.

Alex desperately wanted to help him but she chose not to. Wolves hated to show weakness and her Mak was no different. “How bout a bath? I’m pretty sure you can’t stand long enough for a shower.”

He couldn’t remember the last shower he had or even what damn day it was. He knew Alex saved him from death, that he knew for certain but the rest was a blur.

“Yes, I must smell awful.” Mak was meticulous about cleanliness, showering several times a day. Even in wolf form he kept clean, constantly grooming and licking his paws.

Try as she might, Alex didn’t have the strength to get Mak from the bed to the bathroom. “OK I can’t carry you. Stay put. I’ll get Lachlan to help.” She returned as quickly as she left but not with Lachlan, Alex brought Nico. Mak didn’t even care at this point, he just needed help. As bad as it was, he would deal.

“Alpha.” Mak gave him the respect he deserved. Nico Angelov was the only wolf Mak knew he couldn’t best.

“Hey kid, how you feeling? Gave us a big fuckin’ scare.” That much he knew, he had flashes of the chaos surrounding the poisoning.

“I’ve been better, just need a hand getting to the bathroom.” Nico helped him up, bracing him for the twenty odd steps to the bathroom.

“I overheard you talking to your mate. When you’re up to it I’d like to talk, help you the way my cousin should have.” Fuck! If he didn’t already feel like death he’d probably be dying of embarrassment. He couldn’t speak without pain so the nod would have to do.

Alex had the tub filled with hot water and bubbles. Mak smelled the lavender scent from the oils she must have added. Nico left him to his privacy, sitting him in the toilet lid. “Did you know Alexis?” She wasn’t quite sure what he was asking, evident by the look on her face. “Nico, he heard me. Did you know?” Mak asked her as he was struggling to pull off his shirt, but he was determined not to ask for help.

“Yes I know, I asked him to leave it alone but you know Nico. He just wants to help Mak, please don’t be mad.” Funny part was he wasn’t mad, not even a little. Nico was right as much as he hated to admit it, he needed a male wolf to talk to.

Alex left him to finish undressing and get himself in the tub, knowing how shy he was. She heard the splashing of water on the tile and laughed. Mak didn’t have his graceful moves back yet.

As he lay back in the water hiss eyes closed. He imagined Alex in the tub, naked; taking him inside her. Riding him, grinding on him, biting her lip as she thrust her body down on his rock hard dick. He might be weak but he was  still a man, one that definitely wanted his mate. The picture of them together was so clear in his mind and that just made him throb even more.

“Water ok?” Alex's voice brought him out of fantasy land.

“It’s ok Alexis and I’m not mad, we need to talk. I need to talk, it’s hard for me to admit but he’s right.” Alex listened as she washed his hair, leaving him to do the rest. She knew he had to do this part himself. It was a guy thing.

“When I’m done I’d like to go downstairs, is that ok?” She figured he wanted to see Vlad and Lachlan, it had been two long days of Mak being out cold.

“When you’re ready I’ll go get Nico. I’ve got clothes set out for you.” Mak nodded, washing the best he could under the circumstances and pulled the plug. Getting up and out was a chore but he managed. As much as he wanted privacy, it wasn’t a good idea so he let Alex help him.

As she helped him out of the tub Alex could help but look. This was the first time seeing him naked and Mak was magnificent, long and thick. What stuck out more than him being packing was the silver pubic curl, just the one. It was different but didn’t deter from his sexiness in the least. As she helped him dress Alex couldn’t help but think of the silver patch, she knew it meant something. It was too familiar.

Mak hadn’t shaved in close to two weeks and Alex was loving the beard. Later when he felt up for it she would trim if for him. “I love you Alexis.” He told her as she combed his hair. She knew this man was forever hers.

Nico came back to help so Mak could make it downstairs without taking a tumble. That's all he needed, just start to get better and break something falling down the stairs.  He offered Mak a chair but the younger wolf opted for the floor next to the fire. Mak took the glass Vlad handed to him.

“Son it is so good to see you not just lying in bed. How are you feeling?” Mak too, a sip of the vodka feeling as weak as a baby bird but there only way to start getting his strength back was to push himself.

“Ok, Alexis helped me bathe. As silly as it sounds, the bath helped immensely. I felt gross.” Mak was still whispering but the vampires heard him just fine.

Alex plopped down on the floor next to him while Nico made himself a drink and joined in the new planning. Vlad had explained to Mak what Alex had come up with and to everyone's surprise he was quite agreeable.

“It’s much better father. Alex I know you can handle yourself but as your mate it’s my job to keep you safe. The wolf has a primal need to protect his family, his mate. Do you understand?” She did, it was in his DNA. She listened to the men talking about how to execute their plan, then it hit her. She jumped up yelling.

“Mother fucking shit!” She screamed as she threw open her laptop, frantically typing. “Come on! Why is this thing so fucking slow!” At this point she was yelling.

“What is it Alex?” Vlad was hovering over her shoulder, trying to see what had her all twisted in knots. Alex kept searching, she knew she was right. It all fit, his age, being orphaned, that silver patch.

“I think  I know who Mak is, or was. Just gimme a second.” She was scrolling through page after page. “Here Vlad, read this. Tell me if this doesn’t make sense.”

Vlad started reading and the more he did, the more he knew Alex had to be right. Mak wasn’t abandoned, his family had been murdered.

“Alexis I do believe you are correct. I assume you saw the tell-tale silver patch and that is how you put it together. Makhi you were kidnapped as an infant, not abandoned. I have no idea why you were not killed along with your family, but I am eternally grateful you were not. Your biological father is Petrov Novak, the Russian czar. You are Alexsndr Novak, the missing heir.”

Mak sat stunned, he was completely speechless. He hadn’t been cast aside or abandoned, just the victim of unfortunate circumstances. And he was the son of a Czar,  that in itself was mind boggling. Mak knew he had to choose between becoming Alexsndr Novak or staying Makhi. “Son,” Vlad was addressing him but he really didn’t hear a word  making his  choice almost instantly. Mak knew what needed to happen.

“Wolf are you ok?” Alex asked him with the look of fear on her face. Mak absolutely hated that look, no woman of his would ever have reason to be fearful.

“I’m ok. Father I may have been born the son of a czar, but that is not who I am now and I don’t want to be. I am Mak, son of Vlad Tepes; Vampire King. I like who I am and that’s what I want, so if we can keep that between us I’d really appreciate it. Romania is my home and you all are my family, the one that matters.

Vlad helped Mak up and held him in a very fatherly embrace, followed by Lachlan, Nico and finally Alex. She was everything good and right in his world. He had no idea  he could love someone with such intensity until her. Mak held out his arms and Alex stepped in, wrapping her in his love.

Mak spent his days sleep next to the woman he loved, her curled up in his arms. Nothing had ever given him the contentment she did.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

                                                                          THE   HOOK

 

Over the next few days Mak grew stronger, managing to get around the castle unassisted and his voice had finally returned.  Swallowing had hurt so much for the first few days after his ordeal he hadn’t taken in much for food. Now he was certainly making up for it.  Even Marcus, Vlad's chef, had to make an extra food order. Their usual milk delivery had doubled in a week and Vlad was ribbing him about cows again.

Mak had other things on his mind today. The girls were out shopping so he sent Nico a text, asking if he could make Time for him. The answer came in seconds, he was already heading that way and of course he had time for him. Mak was just thankful the women had talked Lachlan into taking them into town because this conversation was going to be utterly embarrassing.

He met up with Nico who was already pouring a drink from Vlad's good scotch. The library was the most private and even though they were alone, Mak opted to close the doors. He himself poured a drink, he was going to need at least one. Sitting himself on the floor in front of the fire, he took a deep breath.

“Ok kid, tell, me what you know and we’ll go from there.” Nico listened as Mak told him everything he knew, or thought he knew; then it was Nico's turn. By the time Nico had finished Mak was mortified at all the things he didn’t know.

“The most important thing to remember is her pleasure comes first. We're men, ours is gonna happen either way, women don’t work that way. She needs coaxing, prime her engine so to speak.” That much Mak understood, it was everything else.

“How will I know I’m doing it right?” The younger wolf asked the Alpha. Nico just grinned.

“Oh kid you’ll know, listen to her sounds, watch her facial expressions and body language. Trust me, you’re gonna know.”

“Thank you Alpha, I really did need this.” Nico was still fuming at Zhor but at least Mak knew now.

“I think the women are back, I hear giggles.”

Annalese and Alex had spent the entire day shopping and enjoying the day away from the castle. Lese was so fun  and easy to talk to it felt like Alex had known her for years. Lachlan had trailed behind to give the girls their privacy.  Not that he couldn’t hear the discussion, and he was silently chuckling. It was a good thing poor Mak wasn’t here, the kid would be dying of embarrassment. Alex asked and Annalese was telling her just exactly how to bring Mak to his knees; the perfect blow job. Lachlan was smiling, being on the receiving end so many times. She was right, they were perfect; every damn time. She was the only one he ever let finish the job, Vlad too. It was discussed one night over several bottles of scotch. Finishing like that was a control thing, something neither vampire had lost until Annalese.

Mak stepped into the foyer to help Lachlan unload bags, looking like he needed saving from the shopping queens. “Aye Mak, thank ye. I do believe Bucharest has nothing left in the boutiques.” From the looks of it he was right.

“Alexis, it looks as if you bought everything.” He said smiling. Mak had given her the black AMEX card Vlad had given him, telling her to get whatever she wanted. By the look on her face she did just that. She most certainly earned it, saving his life and playing nursemaid for a week.

“Yeah we kinda did, I might have overdone it a little bit but we were just having so much fun. Plus I can’t wait to see your face when you see my Ball gown. Those pretty green eyes of yours are gonna pop right out of the sockets.” She told him as she giggled. Mak was imaging her out of the dress, lying underneath him with her legs wrapped around him as he rammed his dick inside her warm, wet pussy. Nico mentioned dirty words whispered in her ear would help rev the engine. He definitely needed to think of something else right now or he wouldn’t be walking right.

As soon as Selene was handled it would happen. Mak had every intention of marking his mate. They would marry at New Year's but his mark was what Mak needed. His wolf had been howling for a month to take his mate, mark her and make her his. New Year’s couldn’t come fast enough.

Vlad had arranged a “business trip” to Greece, filing his flight plan for 3 passengers. He himself, Lachlan and Annalese. Vlad had arranged for Mehmet to pop in and join Nico in the fun. Vlad would load up the family and head to the airstrip, the plane leaving Bucharest for Athens. The Prince however wouldn’t be on that flight. The three would use the secret hatch he had dug years before to return to Castle Dracula. Vlad had an  intricate tunnel system under his home that lead to Nico's. The five would hide out in the tunnels and hope Selene would take the bait. Alex was certain she would, Vlad just hoped she was right.

All was quiet on the home front. Vlad was gone and Nico safely hidden in the tunnel with Mehmet so Alex thought spending some quality time with Mak would help pass the time. Coming so close to losing him made her realize just how much she loved him. Watching him scream in agony while the silver burned him from the inside out was by far the worst thing she'd ever had to experience. Mak had said there was no comparison, no injury had ever made him think he would die, or want to die.

The couple was snug up in their suite watching a Die Hard movie marathon. “I still can’t believe you’ve never seen these. Alan Rickman plays a great bad guy, plus  I love all the explosions.” Mak just shook his head. He hoped all went according to plan and there weren’t any explosions here. If the castle blew up he was almost positive Vlad would kill them both.

Marcus had left of feast of meats and cheeses with fresh fruit for Alex and a double cheeseburger for Mak. He was still struggling to put back on the twenty pounds he’d lost after the silver poisoning. Mak's metabolism was in overdrive and he couldn’t seem to get enough food. He finished the burger in record time, calling downstairs for a second when Alex's phone vibrated.

Nico sent a text to Alex  there was a scent he didn’t know. It was faint but it was there and it was familiar. He knew they weren’t alone, someone had taken the bait.

Alexis put the food in the closet and grabbed a book, pretending to read to him as Mak got into position. The next chime of the text said the Calvary had arrived, meaning Vlad and crew had returned. As Alex settled into the chair the hairs on the back of her neck stood up, they definitely weren’t alone.

The couple kept their conversation to a whisper, neither sure how close the intruder was and the scene needed to be believable. Nico said their was an unknown scent and Alex would bet dollars to doughnuts it was Selene. The only factor they weren’t sure of was if she was alone. It really didn’t matter, Alex had an ace in the hole. More specifically she had a Vlad, Mehmet, Lachlan and Nico in the hole. Mak was certain Vlad wanted to do the deed himself, this was personal. His son had been poisoned and the Prince was pissed. Thankfully Mak hadn’t died, if that had happened Alex was sure nobody would be safe from the wrath of Vlad Tepes. Selene had harmed one of the family and she was one hundred percent sure Vlad would show no  mercy. The trap was set, now to catch their prey.

Alex's eyes opened to a presence behind her and something cold and sharp pressed against her neck. “Ah Vlad's poor little errand boy in a coma, so sad.” She laughed as she spoke, it was definitely Selene. “And his little mate to be, fool didn’t even mark you yet. No matter, he’ll be dead by the time the Prince returns from Greece. And you’ll be slowly dying of silver poisoning.” She had done her homework,  but not on everything Alex thought.

“Gotta hand it to you, silver was quite ingenious. The only substance that will incapacitate any supernatural. Good call but you’re forgetting one thing.” Gotcha Bitch, Alex said to herself. She could see the wheels turning in Selene’s head, trying to figure out what she could have possibly forgotten.

“What exactly am I forgetting? I believe I covered all my bases.” Alex just loved when a plan came together.

“Silver, it only works on supes. I’m human, fully human.” With a quick move of hand Alex had knocked the syringe out of her hand and across the room. Mak who had sat up as Alex made her move was zip tying Selene’s hands behind her back.

“Ok guys, she’s all yours.” Alex spoke aloud. Vlad stepped through the doorway grinning. You could see the instantaneous terror across the face of Selene. She had gone white as a ghost. Vlad looked as if it made him happy to instill that much fear in her. Alex whispered in her ear, “Gotcha you bitch, now Vlad has you.”

Vlad approached a quivering Selene, her and gently touched her face. “Your mistake was underestimating me Selene. I have not lived this long without being smart and cunning. Know thy enemy, but know thy friend better. We used to be friends, do you remember? Of course you do, but like your sister you crossed me. Now death will come for you, the only thing I have not decided is should it be quick or should I draw it out like my son’s silver poisoning. Nico can you show our guest to the lower level accommodations please.” Nico just grinned, he had no problem chaining her to the dungeon wall. He would probably enjoy a little more than he should, dragging Selene out of the room by her hair.

Mak pulled Alex to him, thankful things went easier than expected. He just closed his eyes and let the feelings come. She was like heaven on earth and when they looked up everyone was gone. “Want to finish our movie?” Mak shook his head, he had other ideas. She had to feel it, his erection straining against the flannel pants he wore.

“I had something else in mind.” She felt his dick on her middle and saw the desire glowing in his eyes.

“You sure wolf?” He was definitely sure. Mak needed to feel her skin, be deep inside her, marking her and making her his. Bonding them together forever. He leaned down to take her lips with his, then he deepened the kiss. It was her tongue that demanded entrance.  She was biting and sucking on his lower lip.

“Touch me Alex.” He murmured against her lips and she obliged him, sliding her hand down the front of his pants. “More.” He stood with closed eyes, reveling how good this felt. She pushed his bottoms down, freeing his dick. It was thick and swollen. The excitement was apparent and since Mak hadn’t moved, Alex went to her knees and took him in her mouth.

The sensation of her lips and tongue on his dick was likes nothing he’d ever experienced or even imagined. All Mak could do was moan and grunt. Alex was paying special attention to the tip, that was overly sensitive and at that point he couldn’t form coherent thought. He tried to speak but nothing happened, Mak was so close to the edge and he needed to stop her. He wanted her to keep going but he wasn’t sure.

“Alex, stop. I think it’s gonna happen.” She didn’t stop, feeling him shaking. She knew what was coming, Mak was. As she increased her pace she pushed him to give her what she wanted, his orgasm. With just a few more flicks of her tongue she coaxed his orgasm from him.

Mak let go, letting his climax rush through him and spilling in her mouth. He was screaming to her, to God and anyone else within earshot. She continued until he’d given all that he had, standing and wrapping her arms around Mak. He was still trembling from the aftershocks.

Mak looked down at Alex with such adoration it almost made her cry. This was her man, her sweet wolf and damn was he sexy.

“Alex,” he was still breathless, “I want to be inside you so bad but I need to make this perfect. Help me do it right.” Alex stripped out of her clothes until she wore nothing but her smile.

“Your turn wolf, touch me.” Mak scooped her up, kicking out of his pants and carrying her to the bed. Gently laying her down he pulled his shirt over his head, tossing it across the room. He laid at her side, kissing her neck and letting his hands explore her body. His fingers skimmed over her breasts, causing Alex to sharply inhale. Mak  slid down her body and took a nipple between his lips, biting and sucking on the deep pink peak.

Mak could smell her arousal and it was intoxicating. Remembering what his Alpha said, he was a supe and twice as large as a human. Make her ready for you, don’t hurt her Mak. He let his fingers do the walking down her middle until he parted her legs. His touch was timid and shy, trying to digest what he was told.

“Mak stop thinking, just feel.” Alex whispered. He let his eyes close and the feeling came. She was so wet, so soft; like silk and almost shaved bare. The tiny thatch of pubic hair that remained was almost as soft as she was. His fingers slid over her until he found the opening. He dipped one finger in and she instantly responded. He added another and before he knew it he was using his fingers to make love to her. When his thumb brushed over her clit, Alex was quivering on the verge of ecstasy. Mak's touch had lit her on fire and she was moaning his name.

“Oh god wolf! Yes that’s it, don’t stop!” He pushed deeper, curling his fingers and Alex went over the edge; her orgasm crashing through her. She was soaring through a blissful oblivion.

Mak lay over her, wanting so bad to thrust in and claim her. To take her hard and his wolf was pushing him to do just that but the man just couldn't. He put his lips on hers and slowly pushed himself inside her, becoming one. The feeling that overcame him was indescribable. The electricity between them sparked, igniting a fire so hot Mak almost lost it.

As he pumped in time with Alex he knew she wasn’t the only one that was going to get marked.

“Alex, mark me. Mate mark me please.” He choked out, showing her where to bite him. Right over his nipple on Mak’s left pec. The flames dancing in her eyes told him everything  as she leaned up and bit down. “Harder, make it bleed. It needs to scar.”  Alex did as he asked, drawing blood and Mak had to bite the inside of his mouth to keep himself focused.

As Alex released her teeth she licked the bite, just as a female wolf would have then turned her head sideways; giving Mak perfect access to her shoulder. She knew threats where he would mark her, it had to show.

Mak felt the change coming, it would only be a partial shift. One so he could mark his mate, claim her as his own for eternity. He knew she understood what was coming, Mak explained that his body would still be a man but his eyes would glow and teeth would elongate like a wolf. He himself wasn’t sure how much wolf would show, and he damn sure didn’t want to frighten her. His head fell back and the howl started, right before canines broke through the gums. Mak growled and leaned over, latching on to her shoulder. In that moment the pleasure was too great for both of them and as each one hit nirvana the bond was made. An unbreakable bond between Mak and Alex was made, one no man could ever come between. They stayed joined as the sun rose, holding each other and knowing this was forever.

The next evening found the two elder vampires and the Alpha sitting at the breakfast bar having coffee and discussing business. Mak wandered in to get a cup for himself, still reeling from the night before. He gave his father a nod and proceeded to fill his cup.

“I take it congratulations are in order, you marked your mate son.” Mak nodded, knowing he should be embarrassed that Vlad knew but he wasn’t. Mak became a man in the arms of the woman he loved and he really didn’t care if they all knew.

“Yes I did, I also got a mark.” He lifted his shirt to show off his bite. He was proud of it, as proud as any wolf would be.

“We should consider sound proofing your suite, I do believe even the staff knows you claimed your mate. “ That's when Mak finally turned red, knowing the entire castle knew. Alex wandered in behind him, she too still smiling from the events of the night before.

Nico sat grinning, the kid did good from the look on both faces. “Alpha, do you have a minute?” Mak asked of Nico, hoping they could talk for just a few minutes.  Njcl nodded, following  Mak to the library.

“Alpha, thank you. What you said, I did know. You were right. I listened to her, watched her and I knew. Thank you.” Nico just grinned, nodding.

“You did good kid, she’s glowing. Little secret, I’ve never made a woman glow like that.” That shocked Mak, Nico oozed sex appeal. Maybe he just needed the right woman.

“Maybe when you meet your mate she will glow too.”

“Shhh kid, you’re gonna jinx me. I like being me and I don’t think there’s a woman out there who could put up with me.” But Mak’s statement got Nico thinking, mostly about things he shouldn’t. If Gaia had meant for him to take a mate surely it would have happened by now. Nico Angelov wasn’t mate material and he knew it, but it made him wonder. Could there actually be someone out there for him, a woman who could handle him; tame the beast. Probably not but maybe, just maybe. The universe had a way of making things happen when you least expect it.

 

THE END OF MAK'S BOOK.

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THE BIG BAD WOLF