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  “I didn’t keep anything from you. I didn’t find out until last night.”

  “Last night? Was this before or after you visited The Wolf’s Den?”

  “A bit of both, actually.” Chloe blushed, the apples of her cheeks turning red. “I always thought I was different but it wasn’t until I went into The Wolf’s Den and met Jackson…” She exhaled slowly and shifted her feet, clasping her hands together. After a moment she cleared her throat and whispered, “That’s when I knew for sure.”

  It wasn’t hard to imagine what her friend was thinking about. Chloe was obviously smitten with Jackson, watching him from the corner of her eye, allowing her fingers to linger on his arm as she told him she was packing a few things and would hurry back.

  An image of another man—one who’d tossed her inside a room and left her breathless—flashed before Rachel’s eyes. All muscles, tattoos and attitude. With eyes captivating and shiny as gold. A warm tingle erupted in her stomach and goose bumps scattered over her skin. For a moment she’d considered sticking around, if only to see what no-name-tattoo-artist would do. Then it had hit her she was flirting with something dangerous enough to shatter her bones and snuff out her lights.

  Slamming back to the present, she brushed off the intrusive sensations. The man—while good-looking and yummy as sin—had essentially threatened her if she didn’t do as he said. Climbing out the window was possibly the smartest decision she’d ever made. She depended on herself to get shit done. Relying on someone else was just asking for trouble.

  “You’re sure?”

  Chloe nodded. “Gramps confirmed things this morning.”

  “That would explain your attraction to all things kooky,” Rachel said, glancing at her friend. Humor had always gotten them through rough patches in the past. Hopefully playful teasing would overcome the tension in the room.

  “Jackson isn’t kooky.”

  No, he wasn’t, but she wasn’t letting Chloe off that easy.

  Time to break the ice. “Says the woman sleeping with him. I’m still on the fence.”

  “You’re on the fence about everything.” Her friend’s eyes warmed, amusement visible in the pools of green. “Maybe you should go out and find a werewolf. It might change your life.”

  Even though she knew the comment was meant as a joke, a spike of panic made her heart skip a beat. For the second time she pictured the man from the tattoo shop, shivering when she recalled how he’d looked at her. His gaze alone had made her nipples ache and her pussy clench. He wasn’t one to fool around. He’d take what he wanted, when he wanted it. And he wouldn’t ask.

  Recovering before she roused her friend’s suspicion, she returned her hands to her hips. “Thanks for the offer but I’ll stick to plastic and batteries when it comes to my sexual needs.”

  “So you’re not upset?”

  Rachel froze caught off guard when reality reached out and slapped her in the face. Oh God. Chloe actually thought she’d think less of her because of what her father was. That she might not view her in the same way once she found out the truth. Why hadn’t she noticed? What in the hell was wrong with her?

  A six-foot-plus man with tattoos and an ego the size of Everest. That’s what.

  “Hell no,” she answered and took a step toward the one friend she’d always counted on, the only person she truly trusted. “Friends forever, remember?”

  “Even if I’m not who you thought?” Chloe asked quietly. “I’m not human, Rach. I might become one of the things that freak you out.”

  Crap.

  True, she’d never liked anything paranormal, but this was Chloe.

  “Not possible.” Not in a million years. They’d been through too much—had shared too much—to destroy the bond between them. “I don’t care what you are. You’re still you. That much hasn’t changed.”

  “I hope so,” she whispered, sounding lost. “Everything’s happened so fast. Yesterday I thought I knew who I was. I’m so confused.”

  Crossing the distance, Rachel took her friend into her arms. Chloe sagged against her, holding her so tight it was hard to breathe. Rachel didn’t complain. Over the years they’d taken turns being strong for each other. It was obvious it was her turn to bear the weight, to offer a shoulder to lean on.

  “It’s going to be okay,” she murmured, stroking a hand over her friend’s curly hair. “It’s like your grandma says. When one door closes another one opens.”

  “Do you really believe that?”

  Since she wasn’t sure how to respond, she didn’t say anything. Instead she played the role of the rock, anchoring the fragile young woman to solid ground. Friends forever. Just as they’d vowed on the elementary school playground when they were six years old and faced their first bully together.

  Chloe was home and she was safe. To hell with the rest. They would deal with obstacles in their path as they came to them—just like they always did. Nothing could come between them. Rachel wouldn’t allow it.

  At the present moment, nothing else mattered.

  Chapter Seven

  Jackson led Chloe inside the small cabin he used when he needed time alone, relaxing as he entered the space. He waited until she stepped past the threshold to close the door, gauging her movements, scenting a hint of nervousness. She studied her surroundings, turning slowly as her gaze swept over the space. The living room connected to the kitchen, the bedroom and bathroom nestled upstairs.

  It wasn’t much, although he’d never intended it to be. He visited the cabin when he needed a break from his responsibilities. The moment he’d viewed the property, he’d known he had to have it.

  Aside from Declan, no one knew about the place.

  When Chloe gave a soft sneeze he immediately wished he’d taken the time to air out the cabin during the summer. Usually he visited when the weather was warm, keeping the back door that led to the wraparound porch open so he could shift at his leisure and explore the ten-acre spread. To his dismay, he realized the tension between neighboring packs hadn’t allowed him to do much of anything. He’d only visited the cabin twice in the past year. His life revolved around the wolves who turned to him for guidance. They were his primary focus.

  Until now.

  “Let me take that,” he said and reached for the bag gripped in his female’s fist.

  The trip to the cabin had been quiet—too quiet. Ever since Chloe had come downstairs with her clearly disapproving friend—who’d given him the glare of death—she hadn’t had much to say. He knew she was trying to cope with the things she’d learned, as well as accept what he was certain were foreign feelings stirring to life inside her.

  Their interaction had been strained, the comfortable nearness they’d shared in Fletcher’s office replaced by nerves. His mate allowed his touch even as she glanced at her grandparents and friend for reassurance and acceptance. Since their approval meant so much to her, he’d gone out of his way to be courteous. He was on his best behavior, promising to care for Chloe, ease her into her transition and bring her back after the weekend.

  Now that he was alone with his mate, it was time to live up to his word.

  She didn’t argue as he slid the bag from her fingers. He carried the duffel to the table near the kitchen and rested it on the top. When he heard the stairs creak he glanced over his shoulder. Chloe had decided to investigate, carefully making her way upstairs. She looked good enough to eat in a snug pair of jeans and a white camisole visible beneath the thin sweater she’d tossed on, her cozy brown leather jacket hugging her curves. He wanted to bury his fingers in her curls, whisper his desires in her ear. Keeping a distance had almost killed him, his fingers itching to touch her.

  “We’ll have to change the linens.” He wasn’t sure why he’d stated the obvious. Maybe it was due to his quickly swelling cock. The engorged organ ached for the haven of her body.

  “Where are they?” she asked, peering over the railing. “I can do it.”

  Damn.

  The sound of her voi
ce crept over his body, settling in his ears. He had to draw a deep breath, trying to keep his lust in check. Tonight he’d be able sate his needs. When the moon rose it would send his sweet little mate into the mating heat, preparing her for the full moon that would arrive the next day. If he was lucky he could strengthen their bond tonight. They’d need an established connection to make her shift easier, so that the pain and alarm she felt were minimal.

  As he climbed the stairs the scent of her arousal lined his nostrils, crashing into him like a coiled fist. The shift in her emotions was unexpected. He lifted is head, meeting her gaze. Her eyes were clouded with desire, darkening as he neared. There was a light in the iris he identified, the wolf within making itself known.

  Double damn.

  He wanted to tap into her wild side and see how untamed she would be when the animal took over and the woman held on for the ride but first he had to create a measure of understanding between them. Her lust was easily handled. It was trust he had to establish. Taking her against the wall would only reinforce the sexual nature of their relationship. He wanted more—the unique connection that brought mates together.

  “Here,” he answered softly, squeezing past her smaller frame, forcing his hands to his sides so he didn’t reach out and draw her to him.

  After he retrieved fresh sheets he went to work stripping the bed. Chloe stood back and watched, feet moving from side to side, revealing her restlessness. He didn’t ask for help, letting her come to him, giving her space. Eventually she walked to the other side of the bed to assist. He remained silent, studying her beneath his lashes. By the time they finished and he looked at her the glow in her irises had faded. She saw him staring and lowered her gaze. The blush creeping up her neck was sexy as hell.

  “Do you like the outdoors?” he asked and walked to the closet.

  “Uh…I guess. Why?”

  He took a heavy duvet and down comforter from the shelf and looked over his shoulder. His female had collected the strewn sheets and was arranging them in a tidy pile. Her movements betrayed her, the motions jerky. She was as keyed up as he was, fighting sexual urges, unable to contain the excess energy her wolven half brought to the table.

  Nothing Mother Nature couldn’t fix.

  Thankful she’d kept her jacket on, he crossed to her and took her hand. “Leave them there.”

  He tugged the sheets from her other fist and urged her toward the stairs. She didn’t protest as they returned to the living room and walked toward the sliding glass door to the patio, although he could tell she was curious. The sun broke through the chilly air, warming them as they stepped outside.

  “Wow,” Chloe exhaled. He let the environment sink in, glad she approved. “It’s gorgeous here.”

  “Come on.” He led the way, walking down the stairs.

  “Where are we going?”

  He relaxed when he felt the tension in the air slowly dissipate as Chloe drew on the natural things around her. Wolves were comforted by open spaces. Thankfully the change of scenery calmed her, even if she wasn’t fully aware of it.

  “For a walk,” he answered, continuing on, noting the sound of leaves crunching beneath his boots. “I have to call Declan in a bit to bring us supplies. First I figured we could talk.”

  Despite the nagging inner voice that said he should contact his Beta immediately, Jackson wanted his female settled. Once she was comfortable in her surroundings he could contact his friend and make arrangements. The rest would have to keep.

  “Declan?” Her brows came together as she collected her thoughts. “Is that the man I met at the shop?”

  “That’s him.” He laughed, shooting her a grin. There was only one Declan, thank God. “He’s not so bad once you get to know him. Although his sense of humor could use some work.”

  “Really?” She matched his grin with a smile. “Why’s that?”

  “He’s prone to speak before he thinks.” The path to the pond on his property was clear, despite the multicolored leaves that had fallen to the ground. He followed it, explaining, “It’s not his best character trait but it’s easy to overlook when you think about what he brings to the table. He’s a helluva man to have at your back. I couldn’t ask for a better Beta.”

  “Oh.” Her smile faded and she looked ahead. “I forgot about that.”

  “Forgot about what?”

  She took a deep breath and said, “You’re an Alpha.”

  “It doesn’t change anything.” He stopped, giving her a firm tug so she faced him. “As far as packs go, mine is small. I prefer to keep those I trust close to me. You don’t have anything to worry about. As soon as someone enters our fold they become family.”

  When she didn’t seem convinced he invaded her space, pressing close. “They’re going to love you.”

  Her gaze remained on his chest, her hand squeezing his. “You seem so sure.”

  “I am sure.” Only a few of the males in his pack were unattached. The rest were happily mated. Another bonus of keeping his pack small. Paired werewolves, generally speaking, were happy werewolves. After thinking things over on the drive to the cabin, he’d come to the conclusion that the males and females who had found their other half wouldn’t question him when he brought Chloe to meet the pack. Despite any reservations, many of them were eager to start families—something that wasn’t allowed without a Lupa. As a rule, a pack relied on balance. If Alphas were the muscle, Lupas were the heart. Wolves couldn’t have one without the other. The unmated males would undoubtedly voice their concerns but he was certain the females and their mates would reinforce his status and stand behind his decision.

  “When will I meet them?” The insecurity she projected tugged at his heart.

  “Tomorrow,” he replied, placing a kiss on her forehead.

  He resumed their walk, guiding her down the path. When she tried to stop he pulled on her hand, making sure she didn’t fall behind.

  “So soon?” she asked. “I thought I’d have more time.”

  Not something he really wanted to answer but then again, she deserved his honesty. “You’re going to go through changes on the full moon. Their presence will help you control your impulses. You need to recognize and accept you’re not alone. You have a pack to ground you.”

  “Impulses?” She practically squeaked. He heard the panic in her voice, the fear. “Is that what happened with Gramps? I can’t piece everything together. The memory is muddled.”

  For a moment he considered stopping and putting it all on the line—telling her about Gavin, his suspicions and what she should expect. Then he thought about what Chloe was going through. He considered her alarm and how she might react when she learned she’d be changing for the first time tomorrow. He wanted to make things easier for her, not more difficult.

  “It’s normal.” He decided to shield her as best he could. “You’ll learn control.”

  “So I’m changing.” The statement, to his surprise, sounded more confident than he was prepared for. “That’s what’s happening. I’m not going to stay human. I am becoming like you.”

  “Does that scare you?” When she didn’t immediately reply he wondered if he’d pushed too hard, too fast.

  “No,” she finally responded with a sigh. “It doesn’t scare me. In fact, it explains a lot.”

  “It does?”

  “Somehow…it’s like I know you. The dreamsharing makes sense to me in a strange way.” When he peered over at her she shrugged. “It’s almost like I can feel something coming to life inside me.”

  “And that doesn’t frighten you?”

  “Being scared won’t stop what’s happening.”

  Strong and smart little female.

  She was right. Worry wouldn’t prevent what would eventually happen. By facing the unknown with her chin held high, his mate proved she was more than capable of standing by his side.

  “What’s it like?” she asked softly. “Changing, I mean.”

  As though there could be anything else she was re
ferring to.

  His phone buzzed against his ass, more than likely Declan contacting him with news. He let the call roll to voice mail. Right now there were more pressing matters that needed his attention.

  “Exhilarating.” His answer was as natural as breathing.

  There was nothing like changing forms, shifting into a stronger, more capable shape. The first transformation would be painful for Chloe but after the initial shock she’d learn how to manipulate her body. She’d be a beautiful wolf. Even without her tantalizing scent he’d be able to locate her by her blonde coat and green eyes.

  “You’ll be able to do things you’ve never imagined,” he added. “The world will be entirely new.”

  And he’d be the one to introduce her to her life.

  They’d run together, hunt together and make love together. The thought of having her at his side made his heart race, blood thundering in his ears. He’d wanted a female to share the night with for so long. Now he’d have that and so much more.

  “Liking jumping out of a plane?” she asked.

  “Even better.”

  She seemed to weigh the words. “Will it hurt?”

  The question brought him crashing down to reality.

  “You’re going to be fine.” His vow to keep his hands to himself was broken by her uneasiness. He spun his mate around, looking into her eyes. Releasing her hand, he cupped her face in his palms. “Everything’s going to be perfect. You and me? We’re going to be beautiful together.”

  His cell started humming again but he ignored it, lowering his head, brushing his lips across hers. She moaned into his mouth, sagging against him. And he was lost. Swept away by a female who made the world disappear. Nothing was more important than her well-being and happiness. He’d see to it that she had no reason to fear or worry. He would be the one to keep the bad things away, the man she turned to when she needed a shoulder to lean on.

  No one would ever harm her.

  He’d kill whoever tried.

  The brush of her fingers across his chest combined with the scent of her desire nearly undid him. He pulled her closer, bringing his hands to her hips. A breeze drifted off the nearby water, hovering in the air, merging with her arousal. He let himself go, trapped by the taste and feel of his female, growling when her hand skimmed down his torso and whispered over his stomach.