A loud crunching woke Liv. She slowly opened her eyes to see Lawson chewing on a churro. Milo was on his other side waiting patiently for his share.

“Hey, where’s mine?” Liv asked with a yawn. The soft glow of the fire illuminated the room, and she glanced at the clock. It was a little past midnight. Her power nap had turned into a two-hour snooze.

Lawson shoved the cinnamon treat toward her mouth, and she took a large bite, moaning as the delicious, buttery pastry melted in her mouth.

“Oh, my God, that’s a little slice of Heaven. I hope you’ve got more because that one’s mine,” she informed him as she tried to snatch the churro.

Lawson held his hand out of reach. “What will you give me for it?” he asked, and Liv lunged, trying to grab the treat. Milo sat up, barking at the altercation.

“See? Milo thinks you should give it to me, too,” she said with a laugh. Lawson brought the churro to her lips, and she opened her mouth.

He groaned as she licked the end and then sucked the pastry. “Damn, I wish I were a churro.”

Liv smiled at her sexy shifter. “I’ll have to buy a bottle of cinnamon massage oil and get creative,” she said and leaned in to kiss him. She nibbled his lower lip and sucked it into her mouth.

“Don’t kiss me like that unless you mean it,” he husked.

“I’m going to need more than a churro. What else did you grab from downstairs?” Liv asked and turned to look towards the kitchenette.

“There are beef and chicken fajitas in the oven, along with rice and refried beans,” he answered as he broke off a piece of the churro and offered it to Milo.

“Yes!” Liv shrieked and crawled over him to grab her silk robe. Lawson palmed her bare ass and squeezed, eliciting a yelp from her.

“Don’t get dressed on my account. I’ll just be removing it as soon as you finish eating,” Lawson said and tugged at the black sash, trying to untie her garment.

Liv backed out of his reach and retied the bow. “I have this thing about eating in the nude. Unless we’re playing a version of Nine And A Half Weeks I prefer clothing between my body and food, thank you very much.”

“Nine and a half what?” he asked, and his eyebrows scrunched together.

“It’s a movie. A very sexy movie and there’s this scene where the guy blindfolds the woman and proceeds to feed her various foods,” Liv explained as she walked to the small oven and removed the foil-covered tray.

“Sounds fun. We should try it now,” Lawson replied and waggled his eyebrows.

A loud knock caused Liv to jump, and she looked to the door and then at Lawson. He shrugged and leaned over to grab his lounge pants, quickly dressing as he made his way to the door. Liv tightened the sash at her waist and checked to make sure her breasts were completely covered. Luckily, she grabbed the longer robe because her other one barely covered her ass. That was Lawson’s favorite, of course. She ran to the bed and quickly straightened the blankets as best she could, hiding the evidence of their tryst.

Lawson opened the door, and Devin stepped inside the room. “Hey, sorry to bother you this late. I had hoped to talk at dinner, but you didn’t come downstairs. I wanted to report on what we found out about Jerry Winger,” he stated and looked down, obviously uncomfortable about interrupting them.

Lawson clapped him on the shoulder. “It’s fine. We were up,” he said and gave Liv a knowing look. “And my door is always open to my pack, day or night. Have a seat and let’s talk,” he said and gestured towards the sofa in their small living area.

“Okay, thanks,” Devin replied and removed his ball cap. “Hey, Liv. I won’t take up much of your time,” he added.

“Hi, Devin. Don’t worry about it. Would you like a beer or a glass of wine?” she offered.

“A beer would be great,” he replied and took a seat.

Lawson sat in the adjacent recliner and Liv grabbed three beers and joined them, sitting on the arm of the recliner.

“So, what were you able to find out?” Lawson asked and took a swig of his beer.

“The male living next door is a Ravin. He mostly stays inside. We watched for three days and thought the home was empty, but on the third night, we saw him leave the house. I gotta tell you. I’ve never seen anything like it before. He looked like a normal shifter when he exited his house, but Tyler and I followed him,” he said and shook his head. “As soon as he made it into the woods, his face contorted into this grotesque thing. Hair sprouted all over his body and long claws extended from his fingertips. I’ve heard the rumors, but never seen a Ravin in person.”

Liv recalled Lawson’s description of the Ravin that attacked him. He told her the male was calm and collected until Lawson entered the cage. The Ravin then transformed into a similar monster. Lawson described canines so large they felt like sharp blades when they pierced his skin.

“Anyway, he killed a few deer, and we thought he was headed back to his house, but he backtracked and ended up at the hotel,” Devin explained, and Liv’s eyes widened at hearing his words. Was the Ravin stalking their house?

“What did he do then?” Lawson barked and leaned forward. Liv could see the muscles in his arms twitch as he clenched his fists. He was disturbed by the news, as well.

“Nothing. He just sat and watched for about an hour. I’ll tell you this though. He could see inside the kitchen from his perch. Ashley was doing her thing oblivious that someone lurked outside. We waited to make sure he wasn’t going to make a move. And then he went back to his house,” Devin shared before he took a drink of his beer.

“I don’t want to wait any longer. We need to capture the Ravin and get him to Liv’s lab for testing. I do not want the Ravin attacking anyone, especially, a human that might not survive,” Lawson gritted out.

Liv grabbed Lawson’s shoulder. “I completely forgot to tell you my news when I got home yesterday,” she confessed and blushed stained her cheeks when she recalled why. Her mind was steered in another direction as soon as Lawson took her to their room and bed.

“What’s that?” he asked and smirked as if he knew what she was thinking.

“The room at the lab is ready. The caged area has a private bath and shower area. There is a bed and a small dining table and chairs. I’m ready as soon as you are,” she declared as excitement rushed through her veins.

The prospect of testing a Ravin was closer than she expected. And not a moment too soon because her gut told her Ryan was close to losing control of his animal.

“That’s fantastic. First thing tomorrow we will get together and decide our plan of attack. Thank you for your assistance. I’ll need your input so make sure you’re there for the meeting tomorrow,” Lawson commented and tipped his beer towards Devin.

“No problem. I’ll be there. Just let me know the time. Now, I’ll get out of your hair. It’s good to see you on your feet again. Good evening, Liv,” Devin voiced as he stood to leave.

“You, too, Devin,” she replied and smiled at the man. She liked him and hoped he considered Safe Haven his permanent home.

“Thanks again. I’ll get a message out to the group within the hour and include a time to meet. Good night,” Lawson said as he saw Devin to the door.

“Liv, don’t worry. I won’t let anything happen to you. We’re going to catch him and hopefully find a way to help him,” Lawson said as he walked to her side.

“I will do my best to find a way to reverse the effects. Were you able to talk with Jay about donating blood?” she asked.

“Yes. Jay said to count on him. In fact, Dawn said she’d happily give blood, too. I think they’re a good fit for our growing pack. Wouldn’t you agree?” he asked and puffed his chest. Liv could hear and see his pride.

“I do. It’s because they have an incredibly sexy Alpha leading them,” she shared and hip-bumped his thigh.

Without warning, Lawson scooped her into his arms and walked to the bed. He tossed her onto the soft mattress and jumped, landing by her side. Liv couldn’t help but laugh at his playful behavior. He was acting like an overgrown child, and she found it endearing. He tugged the sash at her waist and opened her robe then buried his head between her breasts.

“Ahhh,” she squealed as his hands greedily ravaged her body. “I still haven’t eaten,” she sputtered, unable to stop laughing as he wiggled his face side to side.

“Don’t worry, food is coming,” he said as he picked up the black sash then covered her eyes with the silky fabric. “Nine and a half months ain’t got nothing on me,” he declared as he securely tied the makeshift blindfold.

“Weeks,” she corrected and smiled as her surroundings shifted into a dark mystery. She couldn’t see a damn thing, and her heart pounded with eager anticipation.

“Whatever,” he whispered in her ear then kissed her neck. “Let’s play,” he murmured then slipped off her robe.

Liv’s stomach growled and her core clenched with need. Food and sex. Lawson was about to satisfy both of her cravings.

Lawson tightened his grip on his gun as he talked with the males. “So, let’s recap before we head out. You’ve each been assigned your lookout station. We will stake out Jerry’s house as long as it takes. Given what Devin and Tyler discovered, it could be days and I refuse to miss him this time. When he exits, depending on which door he uses, the closest one will shoot. These bullets hurt like a bitch, so he’s going to be pissed, and I imagine he will shift immediately. Now, the tranquilizer will take five to ten minutes to take effect so be prepared for a chase. We’ll follow him on the four-wheelers until he drops. Do not engage him. He will be extremely violent and dangerous. Am I clear on this? I don’t want this to turn violent,” he informed the group and looked to Ryan, Devin, Tyler, Knox, and Jay.

Each male nodded, and Lawson hooked the gun strap over his shoulder. “Alright, grab your packs and let’s get in position. This hunt could take a while, so bring your patience,” he instructed and walked towards the group of ATVs.

“Oh, and don’t forget,” Lawson added and turned to the group at his back, “his hearing and eyesight are as keen as ours. When we get close to the house, we’ll push the four wheelers the rest of the way. The walkie-talkies in your packs are for emergency use only. Silence is crucial. When you get in position, remain still. It may be dark, but that won’t hinder his vision. I don’t want to alert him.”

“Roger that,” Knox replied and they each climbed on one of the four-wheelers.

Lawson was glad he recently purchased a few more vehicles; otherwise, some of them would have to hoof it to the neighbor’s property, which was several miles away. In wolf form that was no big deal, but no one wanted to walk that far.

The engines roared to life and, as a group, they plowed through the nearby wooded area. The cold air slapped Lawson’s face, giving him a jolt of energy. The smell of pine and earth stirred his wolf, and his beast howled in his head, demanding release. Not tonight, old friend. Too much at stake.

Within twenty minutes, Lawson and the others were at their designated posts. From his view point, the house looked empty. Not a single light was on inside the house, and there wasn’t a car parked near the back door. He hoped Jerry was home. Devin mentioned he drove a dark blue Tahoe, but he didn't see it anywhere.

Lawson leaned against the tire of the four-wheeler, trying to get comfortable. Devin and Tyler had to wait for three days before Jerry made an appearance. He hoped it didn’t take that long. He already missed Liv and her warm body.

He recalled their naughty picnic. His cock hardened at the image of Liv sucking and licking his fingers as he fed her. It was the most sensual experience of his life, and he couldn’t wait for a repeat performance. Next time, he would change it up and spread dessert across her breasts then lick it off slowly. And, he knew exactly where he’d put the whipped cream.

He shook off his lustful thoughts before he hopped on the ATV and raced back to their bed to devour every inch of his sexy redhead. He needed to focus on the mission. There would be plenty of time to concentrate on Liv after they caught the Ravin.

Distant headlights caught his attention and Lawson picked up his walkie-talkie. “This could be our chance. Get ready,” he voiced and laid on his stomach to get into a better shooting position.

He watched as a vehicle came into view. The navy-blue SUV pulled around to the back of the house and parked. Lawson was grateful for his keen eyesight because scopes couldn’t be used with tranquilizer darts. He imagined humans would have a difficult time hitting a target from this distance. Lawson wondered how Jensen managed to get close enough to a Ravin to immobilize the creature. Guess he wouldn’t be asking him that question since the fucking prick was dead.

The driver door opened, drawing Lawson’s attention. “Come on. Get out of the fucking vehicle,” he whispered to himself.

The male sat inside the SUV for what seemed like forever. It looked like he was scrolling through his cell phone and Lawson wondered about the male’s personal life. Did he have a family that was searching for him? Was he lonely living this life of solitude?

Suddenly, a twig snapped in the distance. Lawson had no doubt it was of his crew but couldn’t be sure of who. Jerry’s head jerked toward the noise, and he stared at the trees.

Fuck. Lawson held his breath, praying their opportunity wasn’t ruined.

Jerry stayed in place, but Lawson could see his head darting from side to side, no doubt searching for danger.

He assumed Jerry didn’t detect any threat because he stepped from the vehicle and shut the driver door. Lawson lifted his gun and zoomed in on the male. He wasn’t an expert at firing a weapon but considered himself a decent shot. He aimed for Jerry’s side, deciding that was the safest area to strike.

Before he could pull the trigger, Lawson heard multiple shots. He glanced at Jerry and watched the male cry out then stumble to the ground. In the next breath, Lawson saw the male’s face elongate and claws extend from his hands. The Ravin howled its rage and turned in circles, looking for the enemy.

And then he took off into the woods.

Lawson jumped on his four-wheeler and headed in the same direction. He cursed when he realized the vehicle was much slower than his wolf. There was no way he would catch up to the Ravin. He heard the roar of the other ATVs close behind. Hopefully, the tranquilizer would take effect soon. Lawson jerked the wheel and ventured off the worn trail in hopes that the Ravin had done the same thing.

Darkness surrounded him, but his keen senses took front and center, leading the way. He sniffed the air for any unfamiliar scents and scanned the trees for sudden movements. Jerry couldn’t run forever. Eventually, the drug would incapacitate him. The only problem Lawson could foresee was if they couldn’t find him before he regained consciousness.

Lawson put that thought aside. No room for negativity. They would find the Ravin and get him to Liv’s lab before the drugs wore off. This plan would work. It had to.

He let off the gas and slowed to a stop, waiting for the others to catch up to him. It didn’t take but a few minutes before he heard another vehicle approaching. It was his brother Ryan.

“See anything?” Ryan blurted as he pulled beside him.

“Nope. You?”

Ryan shook his head and killed the engine. “Did you get a good look at him?” his brother asked and Lawson could see the worry on his face.

“Yeah. Reminded me of the Ravin that attacked me. How 'bout you?” Lawson asked.

“I’ve never seen anything like it. I had no idea that a Ravin changed back and forth like that,” Ryan replied and reached into his back pocket, pulling out a pack of cigarettes.

Lawson couldn’t recall the last time he’d seen Ryan smoke. He thought his brother had kicked the nasty-ass habit. He knew the only time his brother smoked was under duress, so he knew seeing the Ravin resonated on a deep level.

“The truth is we don’t know what happens. Maybe this guy hasn’t gone full Ravin yet. Maybe it progresses over time until they can’t shift back at all. That’s why I want to capture him and let Liv test his blood,” he explained, hoping to calm his brother’s nerves.

“I hope your theory is right,” Ryan mumbled and took a long drag of his smoke.

“You doing okay?” Lawson asked, watching his brother closely. The hand holding his cigarette trembled as Ryan took another drag.

“Yeah, I’m good. Just a little agitated right now,” Ryan answered.

Lawson knew better. Liv told him what she witnessed when Ryan operated on him. His brother wasn’t as controlled as he would have everyone believe.

Lawson’s walkie-talkie alerted then he heard Knox’s voice. “Hey, Lawson. We found him. He’s loaded up, and we’re headed back to the hotel. Meet you back there in a few,” he blared through the device.

“Ten-four. Ryan and I will be there in about ten minutes. I’ll let Liv know we’re on our way,” he responded.

He grabbed his cell phone and texted Liv. They had a short window to get the Ravin secured in the van and transported to the holding area at the lab.

As they sped back to Safe Haven, Lawson couldn’t ignore the guilt that surfaced. Despite his good intentions, he had captured a Ravin and was taking him to a cell where he would remain in captivity until they decided to set him free. He believed it was the right thing to do, but he still felt more like the enemy than an ally. Hopefully, Jerry wouldn’t agree with that summation. If so, they may never get the information needed to help his fellow shifters, including his brother.