Scared or nervous were not words he would use to describe how he felt when he saw Wick’s already sharp canines drop into impressive two-inch fangs.

Immensely stimulated were better words. Without thought, Justice took his tongue and drug it slowly along one sharp, white tooth. As if a tidal wave flooded him, he suddenly needed Wick to bite him more than he needed oxygen. He had to release all the built-up pressure he felt in his body. He was beginning to think that if he didn’t let Wick feed from him soon, his blood was going to burst out of his veins. Wick hadn’t moved, as if he was waiting for Justice to be the initiator. Well, not this time. Justice had met Chadwick Bentley the King, he’d met Wick the man, he’d even met his fierce protector, but Justice had yet to meet the vampire and he wanted to the full experience.

“Take what’s yours,” Justice provoked, tilting his head back and to the side. His wolf didn’t react to the vulnerable position. This was his mate. Justice was so crazy turned on his body buzzed with excitement. He prayed he’d sit still through the bite long enough to satisfy his mate because after Wick was sated, Justice would make him his.

Wick burrowed against Justice’s neck for a while, only lightly kissing and flicking his tongue against the tickling drops of sweat that rolled down his throat. “Chadwick.” Justice put one hand on the back of Wick’s head, digging his fingers into the damp black strands, while he wrapped the other around his narrow waist.

Wick hummed beautifully, then grazed the tip of one fang over Justice’s Adam’s apple.

“Go on, baby,” Justice soothed, gently guiding Wick’s smooth lips to a sensitive spot just below his earlobe.

He felt Wick open his mouth, and warm, moist breath touch his skin right before his world was tilted on its axis. Justice had never felt anything like the extreme pleasure. Not even the piercing of his skin was uncomfortable. It all came together in the form of something magical. Wick moaned against his throat as he began to suck in long, drawn-out pulls. Swallowing mouthfuls. The blood leaving him was such a relief, like letting out an enormous belch. Except, this feeling was affecting him much lower than his stomach. Justice pressed his aching dick against Wick’s groin, suddenly wanting that friction to add to the vast sensations overtaking him. He wanted so badly he could hardly see straight.

“Damn. Feels so good, Wick. Take as much as you need.” The relief was overwhelming. Justice held Wick’s head in place, his hips pumping on their own. “Don’t stop.”

“Beloved. You taste so good. Nothing compares.”

Justice’s wolf was calm and content while his mate was tended to, even preening at Wick’s praise.  Wick was strong, especially when he was feeding, holding Justice in a vise-like grip. Once the initial urgency was gone and only desire remained, Justice reclined, pulling Wick with him, keeping his head turned high to the heavens, giving his mate full access. Justice felt their link, their bond, get even stronger. He felt Wick’s fulfillment, that he was no longer plagued by hunger. Wick moaned and grunted but he stayed focused, careful of what he was doing and Justice respected the hell out of that. He hadn’t even known Wick pulled his fangs out, not until he felt his slick tongue gliding over the sensitive area. Erotically sensitive area. Even the thought of it made Justice want to come. Was this Wick’s mate bite? He didn’t have a chance to ask because Wick was already dozing off in the crux of Justice’s neck.

“It’s gonna be dawn in about an hour or so,” Justice spoke against Wick’s forehead, but all he got was a relaxed hum. “We’ve both had little to no sleep. Come on. It’s time to go inside.”

Wick made a sound that indicated he was more than comfortable where he was.

“Lazy mate,” Justice huffed, smiling at Wick now leaning all of his weight on him, content his alpha would keep him. Without a second thought, Justice picked a naked Wick up in his arms – like he weighed nothing – and began the last few miles to Wick’s rental.  He wasn’t even winded when a huge cabin came into view. It looked partially built into the mountain, the way the landscape curved. It was a breathtaking scene, straight out of Home and Garden.

He smelled Wick’s captain before he opened the front double doors. He was a striking figure, standing rigid in his all black suit and crisp white, collared shirt that was unbuttoned to mid-chest. His pale skin and fierce dark eyes were common in most vampires but there was an air of exceptionality about him too. He was the third in command of the vampire species, which meant he was no one to play with. But, Justice remembered what his animal sensed so he’d tread carefully. Although Erman only looked in his late forties, Justice figured he was at least seventy years old.

“I would appreciate a little courtesy, perhaps an advanced notice, when you plan to run off with my King for hours,” Erman greeted Justice. He had the same British accent as his mate, but Wick made it sound much sexier. Erman continued with his hard look as his eyes went down to Wick’s relaxed, nude form. He stepped forward, not stopping until he was in Justice’s space and too damn close to Wick. “What have you done? I can hardly feel him. Here, give him to me. I’ll take him to his quarters.”

Justice tried to reverse the situation and understand where the captain was coming from, but Justice needed to set a few things straight. “Out of respect for the man in my arms, I’m not going to kick you out of my way, and instead, answer your question. I didn’t run off with your King. I went after my mate. And for you to imply that you can’t feel him anymore is not a very wise thing for you to say right now.” Justice still clutched Wick in his arms but his long claws had grown out at his threat. He felt his wolf rush to the surface and his vision changed. With a tight control Justice snarled, “If you try to touch him, I’ll tear you apart.”

“He hasn’t marked him, yet, Ermanno. Por favor, step away. It’s not safe.” 

Justice heard the other vampire but he never took his eyes off the potential risk directly in front of him while his vulnerable mate slept in his arms. Wick had been through a lot in the past two days. He hadn’t slept or eaten until very recently, and had experienced his first shift. Justice could feel his mate’s fatigue and his peaceful slumber. If Erman disturbed it – because he felt he knew what was best for Wick – Justice would hardly be able to stop himself.

Luckily, the captain listened and moved out of Justice’s way, but not without adding, “Chadwick Bentley is my responsibility, Alpha.”

“Not anymore,” Justice growled, continuing farther into the gorgeous home.

The vampire Wick called his Lord Protector was the one who’d just saved the captain’s life. He had a prominent Spanish accent and strong features. He gave Justice a wide berth, pointing towards the stairs. “His quarters are to the left, the double doors at the end of the hall. I’ve already moved all our things into the guest house. No one will be in here with you and your true mate, Alpha.”

“I appreciate that, um—” Justice couldn’t remember the tall vampire’s name.

“I am Ramon Vega. And this is Henry FitzWell, King Bentley’s Lord Chamberlain. If you have any needs during your stay here in the home, any at all, he’ll be available to you.”

“Anything for the King’s Beloved,” the younger vampire spoke up quickly. His dark eyes were all over the place like he was trying hard not to stare at Justice’s sweaty, naked body.

“Thank you,” Justice said, taking the stairs three at a time.

“Sí, Alpha.”

Justice heard the captain saying they were retiring for the night and something else about speed dial presets on Wick’s phone, but Justice closed the door. He wouldn’t need any assistance. It would be daybreak soon, so technically they were saying goodnight. It’d been a while since Justice slept in the daylight hours. But he didn’t think he’d have any problems today. He was beat. He’d used tremendous physical energy over the past couple days himself.

With one hand he pulled back the thick black and gold duvet and placed Wick on top of the cool sheets. Justice didn’t waste time with a shower, instead he climbed in and molded himself to his mate like he’d been doing it all his life, tucking Wick’s face in the warm bend of his neck. He felt, not heard Wick’s sigh of happiness. In seconds, he was asleep.

 

 

Justice woke up to the sounds of his annoying siblings. Justice had never been happier than when he learned how to control all the voices in his head, especially theirs. Justice eased himself from Wick’s firm hold and, after trying two different doors inside the room, he found the bathroom. He cleaned up and put on the only piece of clothing he could find, Wick’s black robe hanging on the back of the door. Justice finally answered Alek’s persistent call on his way downstairs to find some food.

Justice: “Good morning, Alek.”

Justice heard a loud snort and the chuckle of his little sister.

Alek: “It’s hardly morning. It’s after three o’clock, Justice.”

Mac: “He’s with his mate, leave him alone, Alek. Justice is probably too tired to walk, huh, bro?”

Justice could see Mac’s sleazy leer in his head. His middle brother was the crudest out of all of them and was never shy about discussing his own conquests.

Alek: “So it’s done?”

Justice: “No. Not yet. He had a long night. He’s resting. But soon. The Vampire King will be my mate.”

Mac: “If y’all didn’t get down and dirty, then why the hell is he so exhausted? And what where y’all doing in the forest so long?”

Farica: “None of your business, Macky. Goshlee. He’s not going to tell you anything. Justice is a gentleman, aren’t you, Just?”

Justice: “Farica, as soon as that man wakes up, I’m gonna be all over him like first period calculus.”

Mac: “For the love of all, Justice. Can you be a bigger dork? Calculus, really?”

Justice: “Shut up.”

Their laughter was loud and boisterous, making Justice feel so much lighter than he’d felt just days ago. It felt good to joke around with his best friends.

Alek: “Okay, everyone quiet down.”

The other two stopped laughing and joking at Alek’s command.

Alek: “Alpha Mikel and I questioned the shifters. We need to report.”

Justice: “What I need is my mate. Keep the rogue wolves contained for now. I will speak with them when I return.”

Mac: “You’re not far. Where are you staying?”

Justice: “I’m in the cabin at the crest of the mountain.”

Justice walked into the spacious gourmet kitchen. He began opening cupboards, the pantry, the ridiculously expensive-looking refrigerator, and then the freezer.

Justice: “Crap.”

Farica: “What is it?”

Justice: “Food. There’s no food in here. And when I say none, I mean freaking none.”

Mac: “You’re at a vampire’s house, Just. Go check the garage fridge, you can probably find some AB positive in there to chow down on.”

Justice smirked at his brother while the others laughed.

Justice: “Have a pup bring me something, guys, please, thank you. Ask Ross, if he’s not busy. That is, if you’re done with the jokes.”

Mac: “Yeah, he’s too cranky to have mated.”

Farica: “I’ll make sure Ross brings your food. Bye, Just. I’ll see you later. Tell Wick I said hi.”

Justice felt her link clear before Alek continued.

Alek: “I’ll hold things down, bro. Go on and take a few days and tend to your mate.

Justice: “I have an important job to do. Now that we know of the threat, we need to act.”

Alek: “Agreed. But not prematurely. We have the captives isolated, that’s what was most important. Getting those troublemakers off the streets. As far as the rogue alpha, we have time to come up with a plan for him. The other alphas are on their way soon, we will want to consult with them as well. You have a little time. Take it, Justice. It’s not gonna kill you. You and your mate need to bond so you can do the job you were meant to do.”

Justice: “Thanks, brother. Any word from Taleb?”

Alek: “He got some information from the Shaman but he’s still in Mystic. Do you want me to call for him?”

Justice: “No. Let’s see what he uncovers. You and Mac watch those rebellious shifters like a hawk for now. They are our responsibility, not the Humboldt Pack’s. Don’t let them escape.”

Alek: “Count it done.”

Justice felt their link go clear. Thank the heavens he had such amazing siblings. While the late afternoon stretched on, he walked around the spacious cabin, taking in the immaculate décor and expensive art. It was dark due to the tinted windows and the heavy blackout drapes. Justice wondered how old the vampire was that lived there and exactly how rich he was. Nothing seemed touched or disturbed. His stomach was rumbling so loud he decided to wait outside for his late lunch.

Justice was sitting on the porch steps when he smelled Ross. It was another fifteen minutes before he saw the teenage wolf bound around the clearing – looking more than doubtful on a vampire’s land – his shoulder bag draped around him. As soon as he saw Justice, he hurried over to him, brushing his flank and tail along Justice’s back and arms.

“Thanks Ross.” Justice took the bag. “Good job.”

“Of course, Alpha. I was so happy when Farica asked me to do this for you.”

“I chose you, Ross. You may only be fifteen, but you’re strong and focused and so is your animal. I knew you wouldn’t be distracted the moment you left the pack lands.” Justice continued to praise Ross’ wolf, while he stroked the soft, gray fur between his ears. After he let the young man soak up some more affection, he sent him off. “Okay. Go on home now, pup.”

“Yes, Alpha.”

The young man didn’t argue or ask to stay a bit longer, he did as he was told. Alpha Mikel was teaching his shifters right. Justice got up and went back into the house, digging through the bag to see what his sister sent. He was pulling out his second submarine sandwich loaded with meat when he heard footsteps. In seconds, the scent told him exactly who it was.

“Greetings, King’s Beloved. Is there something I can get you?”

Justice sat at the tall-top table in the eat-in kitchen staring out at the beautiful landscape in the backyard. The sun would be setting soon. “You’re up early I guess, for a vampire,” Justice added conversationally, taking a big mouthful of sandwich. Farica had at least four kinds of deli meat bulging from it and Justice sent her a huge kiss and hug in thanks. He had to recharge because he was going to need all his vigor.

The young vampire’s smile was easy and almost shy. “Pre-dusk is considered bright and early in our world. However, it’s my duty to be up to anticipate the King and his escort’s needs for the day. Yours as well. You don’t have to prepare your own—”

Justice looked up in mid-bite and smirked at the confused vampire. “Lord Chamberlain, you said?”

“Yes. Chamberlain of the Household.”

“I’m not royalty. I can take care of my own food. I’m sure you have enough on your plate,” Justice told him politely.

The young man had on dark, creased slacks and a starched black, dress shirt. Justice supposed he was like a butler and he looked damn proud of it. “I take care of King Bentley’s house needs… and personal needs now, I guess, since he sent away the Lord Steward.”

“Personal needs?” Justice scowled.

“Clothes and grooming. Nothing more.” The vampire fidgeted. “I’ve provided fresh attire for you as well. Typically, I’d lay the clothing out, but I put them at the top of the stairs on the hallway console table. Lord Protector advised me not to go into Wick’s bedroom anymore.”

“Shit, sorry. I didn’t mean to be so snappy yesterday,” Justice said.

“Again, I understand. This must all be so crazy and exciting for you both. It’s been centuries since the King’s had a true Beloved.” The young man began to type something on a tablet embedded in the refrigerator door. When he opened it, the contents now visible were not what Justice saw when he looked earlier. Labeled bags of blood hung suspended from metal grates. Only blood. 

“Exactly how will you prepare my food?” Justice grinned. He seemed to be doing that quite a bit. He enjoyed getting to know and understand Wick’s most trusted friends.

“Um, I’m not one hundred percent sure, King’s Belov—”

“Call me Justice, please. No need to keep saying that. I appreciate your respect, though.” Justice wiped his mouth, gulping one of his bottles of water. “Tell me. Can you prepare a rare Porterhouse with sautéed wild mushrooms?”

“I must be truthful. Hell-bloody-no.” The vampire placed the bags of blood in a kitchen appliance that already had temperature-regulated water inside. He turned back to Justice with a cute, amused smile. “But give me some time and I’m sure I’ll prepare a hunk of meat fit for a King’s Mate.”

Justice laughed heartily. He liked this guy. “And what is your name again? I’m sorry, I was a little preoccupied when we were first introduced this morning.”

“I understand. And it’s Henry.”

“I think I’ll call you that, instead of the Lord stuff, if you don’t mind. Over here the language and titles baffle us.” Justice bit half his apple. “Who knew there were still Lords, High Constables and Earl Marshals?”

Henry’s chuckle was soft. “King Bentley’s family is of the old world, so their language and customs are as well. His history can be traced back almost a thousand years ago when King Edward Bentley – Wick’s ancestor – overthrew the original vampire king, William Tunstall and his house.”

“Oh, wow.” Justice nodded, eager to learn any and everything about his mate. “How old are you, Henry?” The guy didn’t look a day over thirty.

“Seventy-four. I’ve been serving my King for thirty-five years. He’s an amazing man and vampire. My house served many high-ranking Lords, but I’ve never been prouder than to serve Chadwick Bentley. He’s like no other King… no… he’s like no other vampire. He’s endless knowledge, but his greatest strength is—”

“Maybe some things you should let the King tell himself.”

Justice knew Wick’s captain was coming but he hadn’t wanted Henry to stop with all the warm compliments about his mate. Too bad Mr. Buzzkill put a stop right at the good part. What was Wick’s greatest strength, according to Henry? Justice believed he may already know anyway.

“Yes, sir. I have your first meal ready, Captain.” Henry went about his duties and Justice didn’t bother him anymore.

“I see you found some food,” Erman said wryly, sitting down at the table – in a similar get-up as yesterday – with Justice and pulling a folded newspaper from under his arm. His tone was clipped. “So, will I be allowed to speak with my leader today… Alpha?”

Justice caught the rude undertone. He wasn’t in the mood to argue, he’d had a good start to his day, and his evening was about to get even better because he could feel Wick rousing from his sleep. “Maybe. I’ll let you know… Captain.”

Henry placed a mug of warm, crimson red, liquid in front of Erman, who sipped it like it was the most expensive, finest coffee in the world while eyeing Justice theatrically over the brim.

“Justice.”

“I’m coming back up now, Wick.”

Justice didn’t care that he left Erman pissed and ignored in the kitchen. The vampire had a chip on his shoulder that Justice wouldn’t mind knocking off. This was supposed to be a trusted advisor of Wick’s but instead he was acting like a jealous… Justice stopped at the door to the bedroom suite. Had Wick and his captain been…? Justice’s wolf released a warning.

Wick was sitting up in bed, rubbing his eyes. As soon as Justice came in, his nose filled with his mate, the need attacking him again. The need to make Wick his.