Twisted Fates

Hidden Gems Series Dark Omegaverse

Book Three

A.R. Ford

Twisted Fates

Hidden Gems Series Dark Omegaverse

Book Three

A.R. Ford

Copyright © 2020 by A.R. Ford

All rights reserved. This book or any portion thereof may not be reproduced, transmitted, photocopied, scanned, faxed, or used in any manner whatsoever without the express written permission of the author except for the use of brief quotations in a book review. Please contact the author to obtain permission to use parts of the book for other purposes.

Printed in the United States of America

First Printing, 2020

www.authorarford.com

arfordauthor@gmail.com

The characters, places, and events in this book are figments of the author’s imagination. Any similarities with persons living or dead is merely a coincidence.

Dedication

I dedicate this book to Carol Demornay, my wonderful editor who knows where my creativity has strayed, and to my ARC and beta readers. Thank you. I could not do this without you.

Warning:

This book contains mature themes and potentially triggering material intended for adults 18+. It is written in the omegaverse trope. If you are offended or triggered by such material, please do not buy the book.

If you are unfamiliar with the omegaverse trope, please familiarize yourself before purchasing or reading this book. You have been warned.

Chapter 1

Kade: Twenty Years Earlier

“Mama! Bad men are coming from the beach!” I screamed, legs pumping faster than they ever had before. A twisted premonition filled my gut that my efforts would not save my parents. Nausea threatened. I fought it back, focusing instead on my mother.

Mama turned. She raised both eyebrows in surprise at my warning. Papa stood beside her in the garden. They worked the rich, dark earth together early in the morning before the heat of day made it miserable to do so. My parents remained side by side as they had throughout their life together.

Rata tat tat!

The deafening sound of a gun’s rapid fire behind me brought Papa’s shouted warning to run inside our cottage, and hide. An odd pattern of crimson circles appeared on his shirt a moment later, only to be followed by the appearance of a similar pattern on Mama’s shirt. Surprise filled their eyes. Trickles of crimson contrasted sharply against their light clothing. A morbid waterfall flowed downward. It became a river before my parents collapsed on the ground.

Rata tat tat!

Another burst of gunfire brought screams. Other members of the village ran. More adults fell dead in the streets. People dressed in gray uniforms, carrying weapons, systematically shot the elders. The men herded boys close to my age, like cattle. Shouted threats forced my friends to move in the direction the men came from. Someone grabbed me as I stood transfixed in horror, eyes riveted to the place where my parents lay. There would be no time to grieve on this day. I swore then to make the men pay for their destruction of my life.

The men directed us into transports. Indifference, or violence, came in response to tears, or outward signs of fear. More than one boy bore the bruises of an unkind hand. We were forced to behave as warriors on that day, by withholding our emotions, and refusing to acknowledge the traumatic impact of those events. Hours later, the transports landed. Once again, we were forced from the transports into a fenced-in area. Male Betas, carrying weapons, stood guard. One by one, two men forced us into a building.

The examination rooms intensified the horror. Not certain of the purpose, I submitted, knowing to refuse the exam would lead to trouble. Those who resisted, or failed the exam, were herded through a door. The sound of gunfire forced an icy spear of terror through my gut. Refusal, or failure, meant death. I knew that much, for certain.

It was only the beginning of the horrific experience that awaited us. Shoved in cells, like refuse in a waste bin. Forced to eat slop unfit for hogs. Those events marked the beginning of our imprisonment. Every few months, more exams were forced on us. Refusal occurred rarely. Those who did so, did not return to their brethren to huddle in groups on the floor of the cold stone cells.

Years passed in the same manner. Alphas were important to those who ran the prison. One World. It was embellished on their drab, gray uniforms beneath the solitary crimson globe signifying their purpose to rule the entire world.

Occasionally, an Omega appeared in the clutches of the bastard guards. My stomach turned when I saw what a pack of feral adult Alphas did to the first Omega. Her cries of fear, and pain, rang out in the corridor. By the time they were done, she lay dead on the floor of the cell.

“Back!” a guard shouted. “What the hell did you do to her? You were supposed to impregnate her, not kill her.”

The Alphas only glared, and growled, as their tenuous hold on their true nature slipped away.

One World turned us into feral beasts who knew only how to destroy, and procreate. No longer were we proud Alphas who guarded their mates, and children, with their lives. No longer were we proud Alphas who protected, and nurtured the rare Omegas who should be treasured. Our need to destroy, and procreate, chaotically intermingled. The instincts ruled supreme every time a One World guard forced an unwilling Omega in the height of her estrus, into a cell. All died at our hands.

We were no more than monstrous animals.

Blood stained my hands, just as it did the hands of my brethren.

Could I be more than the beast who raged, and mated, and killed? I doubted I could resist that side of my nature.

During rare moments of lucidity, I chose to occupy my mind with plans of revenge. Only one Alpha the same age as I, dared join me. His need for vengeance was as intense as mine. Gorn became a close friend, and confidante. I swore to make him my right hand when the time came. We exercised in any way we could in the cell. We grew stronger; our muscles, and stature massive as we changed fully into Alphas.

My brethren respected me. The guards feared me.

Sweat stung my eyes. Abdominal muscles tensed, and relaxed, over, and over, again.

“How many does that make?” Gorn muttered. He sat on the concrete floor observing as I worked through another set of sit ups.

“One hundred.” The words escaped as easily as my body obeyed my demands.

“You said the same thing the last time I asked.” Laughter rumbled in my friend’s chest.

“Two sets of one hundred. Soon to be three.” My breathing remained steady. Control must be exercised, at all cost.

“Gods! You’re a beast if I’ve ever seen one.”

“I agree. Three hundred.” I mopped the sweat from my brow with one hand. Only now would I allow my body to rest. I sat with both arms draped across my knees, feet flat on the floor. “The guards grow lax of late. They call me the gentle giant.” Lips peeled back from my teeth revealed the brutal nature buried deep within me.

“They do, do they?”

“Those mistakes will lead to their demise. Be watching, and ready.” My voice dropped to a whisper as I gave Gorn the only warning he would receive.

“Soon, hmm?” His voice mimicked mine in volume. Gorn was a crafty bastard. He would serve me well.

“Sooner than anyone thought.”

A guard took an extra step the next morning when he approached the cell to dole out an unusual treat of meal replacement bars.

“Meal bars?” My voice assumed the same tone of surprise a child’s does when an unexpected gift is given.

“Count yourselves lucky,” the guard chortled. “I hear the warden is bringing in an Omega. I thought I might give her to you bastards. Try to fuck her before you kill her.” A wave of lewd laughter bounced off of the concrete walls, and ceiling.

Crunch. My fingers tightened around his throat as rage rose as unexpectedly as lava in an active volcano. The guard’s eyes went wide, spittle clinging to his thick lips as he struggled to breathe. There would be no air for him today. Crimson infiltrated the edge of my awareness. Gorn’s hand on my shoulder prevented me from ripping the guard’s head from his body.

“There will be time for that later, Kade. He’s dead. Let’s get the key, and get out of this hellhole.”

Gorn’s words were music to my ears. We were the first Alphas to roam freely in the corridor. The others remained silent when Gorn released them. A second guard stumbled upon two dozen Alphas, set on revenge. His shriek of horror ended in a strangled sigh after an Alpha clubbed him in the head with a meaty fist. The deep dent in the guard’s skull told us what all we needed to know. One additional key, and VLR, came into our possession after Gorn searched the guard’s body.

“You take half of the Alphas, go north. I will take the others, and go south. Kill everyone who wears the One World insignia.”

Gorn inclined his head. The group of Alphas followed him. I led my group to the south. Each, and every One World bastard who stepped into our line of sight, died painfully. Some were torn limb from limb in much the same way the Omegas who died at our hands did. What a fitting end to monsters masquerading as the saviors of this world.

Every Alpha was free by the time Gorn’s group of Alphas reconnected with my group in the prison’s yard. A roaring chant filled the air. Powerful feet stomped the ground. We made our own music of celebration.

“What now?” Gorn’s shout rose above the melody created by Alphas celebrating their freedom.

My eyes traced over the outline of the prison, buried over halfway into the side of the mountain that towered hundreds of feet above it. The building was more secure than anything we could build in a short period of time. “We clean the prison of One World stench. Then, we make it our own.”

“That sounds like a good plan,” Gorn acknowledged. He scanned the Alphas milling about in the yard. With an almost imperceptible lifting of his chin, he motioned toward the others. “A leader will be necessary to accomplish anything of value.”

Laughter rumbled deep in my chest. The ominous sound a faint warning in the same way thunder’s first rumblings warn of an approaching storm. “Have no doubt as to who will rule Barkjour Isle.” My attention turned to Gorn. Would he accept my offer? “I would have you lead the army as my right hand.”

Gorn shook my hand—his grip as powerful as my own. The age-old tradition sealed our commitment. His words doubly so. “I would be honored to lead your army, Kade. What of the others?”

“They can follow when I assume control, or die as the One World bastards in the prison. It matters not to me what their choice is.”

Gorn stood silently at my side as we watched the others remove the bodies from the prison---each new corpse heaped atop the others, until a mountain of death lay before us. The acrid smell of burning flesh filled the air. A second celebration began when the flames rose high above the ground.

“What is your first order?” Gorn scratched his chin while speaking. His actions were relaxed in a calculating way. My respect for him grew. He had no wish to reveal our plans to the others. Anyone who observed us would gain no insight into our conversation.

“I will announce my position when the time is right. You understand now is not the time? For now, collect all armor, weapons, and ammunition. Complete an inventory of our spoils. We sleep as free men tonight. Tomorrow, we begin building our city. We will never be taken prisoner, again.”

“The men would not react well to a new leader. They need to taste freedom to appreciate it.” Gorn bowed his head. “The Warlord of Barkjour Isle has spoken. I should attend to my first orders.”

The Warlord. The name more aptly described me than the others knew. A dark pit filled with rage, and an inherent need for violence, lay where my heart once resided. For now, I held tenuous control over the seething cauldron.

*****

Five Years Earlier

“We have completed work on the wall around the yard. A crew works to lay the launch pads for transports in the designated area.” The older Beta arrived on Barkjour Isle a year ago. He demonstrated a talent for construction, and managing those who volunteered for projects he oversaw. As always, he demonstrated appropriate respect when speaking with me. He stood a few feet from me, waiting patiently for my response

“Do you like it here, Albrecht?” I stood on the steps of The Garrison looking out over the yard.

“I do, sir. I have a home here. You treat me with respect. I appreciate the opportunity to demonstrate my skills for the good of Barkjour Isle, and those who live here.” His response came readily. Not once had Albrecht given me anything but his best work.

“Barkjour Isle is lucky to have you.” My attention shifted to Gorn, and Berenger, as they approached in the distance. “Thank you for the report. I should allow you to attend to your duties, now.” The tone of my voice shifted in such a way as to dismiss Albrecht. He took the release with a faint upturning of the corners of his mouth, and a bob of his head.

My attention returned to the duo mounting the steps. If I considered Gorn my right hand, Berenger truly assumed a position as my left hand. I could not value one man over the other. My rise to power depended intrinsically on them. Gorn interrupted my train of thought with a report on the latest acquisitions.

“The last assault in the northeast quadrant of the mainland, added two dozen VLRs, twenty Alphas, and a hodgepodge of armor. Not to mention their entire food store, and medical supplies. Berenger is pleased,” Gorn’s chuckle communicated his amusement as well as his grin. He, and Berenger, stood with me. Their attention focused on the final touches to half a dozen minor projects underway in the courtyard.

“Variable laser rifles? What a weapon!” I exclaimed. “And from the bowels of a prison rise a great people.” The firepower of a single VLR outclassed other firearms. Adding that many to our arsenal could only improve our ability to protect the island.

The accomplishments of my brethren in the past five years did not pale in comparison to those of other great civilizations. Yet, something was missing. A sense of emptiness filled me at times. What, precisely, would it take to alleviate the sensation of being incomplete?

“You’ve drifted off into one of your fugues,” Berenger quipped, his eyes scanning my face. “I can almost see the dark clouds swirling overhead. This,” he waved a hand toward the various buildings throughout the courtyard, “is an impressive accomplishment. You made this possible, Kade.”

“Hrmm.” The sound rumbled deep within my chest. “Yes, it is quite an accomplishment.”

“And yet, you frown as if One World’s imminent demise means nothing,” Gorn pointed out what fearful others dared not.

“Perhaps Berenger can diagnose my malady.” All this talk of my mood only intensified the darkness swirling in my mind.

“You need a mate,” Berenger announced with one brow raised to emphasize the words. “A pair bond with an Omega would ease many of your worries, Kade.”

I grumbled beneath my breath after spitting between Berenger’s feet. Let my actions speak for me. I needed no mate. “Why bother with a mate who would only hinder my progress? There are many willing female Betas to suck my cock when I want.”

“I give up. I’m off to the medical bay to sort supplies.” Berenger tossed his hands in the air. He knew when to make a hasty retreat. Gorn lacked the same ability. He remained to taunt me.

“He’s right, you know. The research gathered recently suggests that an Alpha-Omega pair bond brings peace to the couple.” Gorn clapped my shoulder with one hand. His voice lowered to a conspiratorial whisper. “Just imagine what your first rut with an Omega in estrus would be like. I hear it’s better than any blowjob you’ll get from a Beta.”

“I do not need a mate,” I growled, fists clenching, then unclenching. Eyes narrowed to mere slits, I glared at Gorn in hopes he would take the hint, and drop the topic.

An index finger held aloft wagged from side, to side. “Ah, maybe you don’t need an Omega. But every king must have his queen. And heirs to carry on the royal dynasty. Think about it, Kade. Have I ever led you astray?”

I stood with both arms crossed on my chest. A snort of derision came an instant before the truth of Gorn’s words hit home. A queen would be required if I intended to rule as the warlord king of Barkjour Isle. A son would rule when my time on earth ended. The exact same location on my chest filled with such exquisite agony that I groaned.

How could this be happening to me? Allegiance to the needs to conquer, and fuck, were the only ones known to the feral Alpha living within me.

“Bastard,” I swore.

“You know I’m right. Just admit it,” Gorn smirked, one hand straying to his chin to stroke the longer scruff growing there.

“And where, pray tell, would I find an Omega? They’re rarer than peace on earth.”

“When we fly to Marleche to scout for One World prisons, we could take some time for you to hunt for an Omega. You never know what you might find when you start looking. Rumor has it there is a reclusive group of Alphas, and Omegas, living on the island. They’ve isolated themselves from society. They live as the gods intended them to. Word has it that…”

“You listen to too much gossip.” I fully intended to stop Gorn’s speech before he got wound up. Who knew how long I would be forced to stand listening as he rambled on if that occurred?

Another odd stab of pain pierced the center of my chest. The heel of one hand massaged the pain away, dulling it to a sharp ache. My teeth ground together as I realized the nature of the pain. It could not be! The first stirrings of an Alpha’s need to control, and protect, grew stronger.

Damn Gorn, and Berenger, to hell! Their nonstop drivel about mates, and Omegas, and pair bonds, woke something within me. Something I was unaware of until this moment.

An overwhelming need to find my queen burst forth, and consumed me.

The search for her would begin on our journey to Marleche.

Chapter 2

Mia: Now

“Must we do the wash today?” My voice assumed the whiny tone of youth. I could not stand another day of scrubbing clothes against washboards. Already, a massive pot of water steamed as my father added more wood to the fire.

“Yes, dear. You know we must see to basic needs, before there is any fun to be had.” My mother’s soft voice chided me as only she could.

The depth of love I felt for my parents, filled my heart. I could not ask for better parents. Their pair bond grew stronger with time. Often, it appeared my parents communicated through the tendril. Even now, my father took a heavy basket of wet clothing from my mother’s hands, gently chiding her when she reluctantly relinquished her hold.

“You should not lift things so heavy, Diana,” my father fussed. He pressed a kiss against her rosy lips. “That is one reason you have the finest Alpha the world has ever known.”

A giggle burst forth before mother responded to his good-natured taunt. “You would strut, and brag, Josef. I expect nothing less of you.”

“Anything for you, my love,” my father called over one shoulder.

It warmed my heart to see them so in love. I could only hope to find an Alpha like my father.

The village I called home was a place of peace, and acceptance. Here, Omegas, and Alphas, learned of their true nature before their first estrus, or rut. None were surprised by the changes taking place within their bodies. Even I sat through the classes taught by village elders. No one was spared the essential lessons. My cheeks pinkened at thoughts of the basic biology, and anatomy lessons all were required to participate in. Learning about ovulation, rutting, knots, Omega wombs, and the fertile essence only an Alpha could give them embarrassed me to this day.

One day, I would have my own Alpha.

“You can help your father. He can rinse the laundry. You can hang it on the line to dry, Mia.” Mother stood with a hand on one hip, the other wiping sweat from her brow. A few tendrils of gray hair mingled with the raven curtain of hair falling even with her waist. “I can scrub.”

I clutched her close, head resting against her chest. At the age of eighteen, I adored my mother more than ever. “Thank you, mama. I love you!”

“And I love you!” she called out as I ran to catch up with my father who neared the stream where rinsing the wash took place.

Clean wash hung from lines near our hut by the end of the day. That evening, I sat near the fireplace while my father played a Ukulele, and sang favorite songs for us. Sleep claimed me not long afterwards. Weariness from the day’s work made rest a necessity.

Sometime during the night, I woke as fever alternated with chills that chattered my teeth together. A deep cramp in my belly forced a wail as I fought against the pain. Mama appeared, kneeling beside my bed.

“What hurts, Mia?” Mama’s cool hand pressed against my feverish brow.

“A horrible cramp in my belly.” My voice was broken, and hoarse, as another cramp ripped through my belly. A gush of moisture between my legs brought Mama’s head up. Nostrils flaring, she called for my father.

“What’s going on?” his question came the instant he stood at Mama’s side.

“Her first estrus. We must act swiftly! Take her to the compound.”

Papa’s strong arms slid beneath me, lifting my body as if I weighed no more than a newborn baby. “Take deep breaths, little one. You will soon be safe,” he assured me.

The enclosed shelter resided within the cool depths of a cave. Two bamboo fences surrounded the area. Beta guards patrolled the area with variable laser rifles at their side. The compound housed unclaimed Omegas through their estrus. No one dared defile its sanctity. A centuries old edict mandated death for any Alpha who attempted to enter.

A village elder opened the locked gate. He allowed my parents to accompany me inside.

“Can I stay with her?” Papa asked.

“It is not allowed. Her mother may stay the first day. After that, she must leave as well. It is our way,” the elder intoned in a deep, authoritative voice.

“I understand,” Papa replied. He placed me on a cot, then kissed us both before turning to go.

The feverish ramblings, and cramps, grew worse throughout the early morning. Mama remained until dusk the next day. The village elder escorted her from the enclosure. My gratitude for the system came when the overwhelming need to mate nearly drove me insane. For the first time, my fingers rubbed the secret place between my thighs. Only a few seconds of respite came with the feverish manipulations. I craved something more--something I did not fully understand. A keening wail burst from my lips. I curled in a ball, hoping it would end before madness consumed me.

By the time my first estrus ended, I understood why the pair bond between Alpha, and Omega, held such importance. I did not know if I could survive another estrus without an Alpha to rut me through it. Omegas are resilient. I survived an estrus every four months for years.

Mama assured me estrus was easier with an Alpha to ease our maddening need to mate. But would I ever find my Alpha?

*****

Four years later, I found myself pondering the same question.

My Alpha did not live in the village. Every estrus drove me to the brink of insanity as the scent of powerful Alphas drifted through the walls of the compound set aside for Omegas in heat. Often, in the midst of estrus, I thought I could submit to any Alpha if given the opportunity.

A staggering realization came when the madness ended. I would never submit to any Alpha other than the one intended by the gods for me. I wondered where he might be, and if I would ever find him.

The idea remained in my thoughts, often consuming me when normal duties in the village did not occupy my time. The continued worry scrambled my thoughts. Scrambled thoughts led to an error in judgment.

I wandered away from the village for the first time since my first estrus ended a few months ago.

The rash decision could have life-altering consequences. I knew this, yet did it, anyway. I craved something different, something more exciting than the humdrum routine. Day in, and day out, the same thing occupied my time. Cooking food. Gathering food. Gathering firewood. Working in the garden.

The cool water on the beach called my name. I obeyed. Wandering along the pristine white sands of the shore, I searched for oysters. A pearl would fetch a handsome sum of credits.

Inattention was my second mistake.

It was only when I waded into the surf, with skirts held in my hands, that the heavy thud of footsteps attracted my attention. I glanced in the direction of the sound, while shielding my eyes with one hand.

Lit from behind by the rays of the sun as it settled toward the horizon, he looked more massive than perhaps he was. I knew before he came within a hundred feet of me that he was an Alpha. The rich, heady scent filled flared nostrils starved for such a delicacy. His skin glistened with perspiration. Dark, closely shorn hair covered his head. He wore leather pants, and boots, his upper body bare. Muscles rippled as he walked toward me.

Gods! He was a behemoth. I wanted to go to him, to inhale his heady scent. Something held me back.

I saw dozens of Alphas behind him. All had long hair worn left flowing free. Dressed in armor. Weapons held in their hands. Huge. Deadly. Moving steadily closer.

The heady scent filled my senses, yet again. Could it be? Was this my Alpha?

Frozen for only seconds, I surveyed the Alphas behind the one who approached with such casual purpose. I did not fear him. The other Alphas struck a chord of terror in some sheltered part of my mind. What would they do to me? Not wanting to find out, I turned, and fled. I was the fastest runner in the village. Chest heaving, feet digging into the sand. Almost. Almost there.

An arm the size of a tree limb caught my waist, tugging me back against his massive, muscular body as he roared. My struggles, and screams, were answered with a gravelly growl that struck fear in my heart.

“You are mine, now, Omega. There is no hope of escape.”

The air filled with a deafening roar. Cheers. Hoots. Catcalls. They knew I belonged to him. None would dare challenge him. He stood at least two heads above the others. The group boarded a transport. As it soared into the air, the Alpha sat in a seat near the cockpit. He clutched me with one arm.

“How long until we land?” the Beast growled.

A Beta sitting at the controls in the cockpit glanced over one shoulder, hazel eyes flicking briefly over me. “Anxious to claim her, are we, Kade?”

“I said how long?” The threat in the beast’s gravelly voice was apparent.

“One hour,” the Beta replied.

My mind shrank in on itself. Fear, metallic, and bitter, filled my mouth. The Alpha began to stroke my hair with one big paw. I shrank from each caress, only to freeze in terror at the Beast’s growl.

“You are mine,” he whispered. “I will do with you as I please.”

“Please, don’t hurt me,” I whimpered. Tears welled, clouding my vision until bright sparkles of light from the cockpit instrument panel were the only things I saw. My thoughts returned to my mundane life in the village.

If only I had stayed where I was safe. I knew it was too late for wisdom.

“Pain is not what I have in mind to inflict upon you, little Omega,” the Beast purred against my hair. A hand pushed strands of hair away from my ear. His teeth tugged the lobe, tongue teasing before he released the tormented flesh.

A bolt of electricity ran from my ear, straight to my crotch. My body tingled in the most lascivious way possible. What could it mean? My thoughts were broken by chatter from the cockpit.

“We are landing, now,” the Beta piloting the carrier advised.

A clank of metal on the ground, and the sensation of no longer moving, signaled the craft’s landing. Hoisted over the Beast’s shoulder as if I were nothing more than a sack of grain, I watched the carrier disappear. The group entered the forest. Thick, green foliage closed in around us. The staccato thud of feet marching along the path, and calling birds, filled my ears. The men remained silent.

Humidity clung cloyingly in the air. Perspiration covered every inch of my body. My hair clung to my head, and neck, in the same way a vine clung to a trellis.

The journey ended not long after the last particle of light faded around us. The hubbub of voices alerted me when we entered a more populated area. The Alpha removed me from his shoulder, setting my feet on the ground. His paw clasped my hand, fingers tightening just short of pain.

It was warning enough.

The Beast led me toward a garrison constructed of stone. Over half the building lay within the mountain that loomed over us. Great walls, at least twenty feet in height, encircled the building. Combat boots drummed on the stone floor as he led me deeper within the structure. I could not say for certain where my journey would end. I knew only that my fate now lay in his hands.

A massive door swung open to reveal a sizable chamber. A four-poster bed, large enough to hold the Alpha, had been pushed against one wall. Colorful bedding brought some life to the otherwise drab room. Black granite floor, ceiling, and walls. A narrow window that would provide no hope of escape. Two other doors I assumed led to a closet, and a bathroom. It may as well have been a prison. The door slammed shut behind us. A bolt slid into place. He manipulated several other locks into place before leading me to a corner.

Beast retrieved a chain, and shackle, from a dresser. What sort of man keeps shackles in his room? I dared not guess the answer. The cold metal clamped around my ankle. Beast grinned, a mere peeling back of his lips from white teeth that resembled fangs—at least in my horrified mind.

“This should prevent you from getting into trouble,” he rumbled.

A knock came upon the door. The Alpha released the locks with practiced ease. He opened the door to reveal a Beta standing outside. Without a word, he stepped into the hallway. The door slammed shut behind him. I remained frozen, legs trembling like a reed in a typhoon. I did not have to wait long. He returned with a tray containing food, and water.

Beast moved to a table, and chairs, sitting not far from where I stood. “You should eat,” he advised. “Come, sit.”

In the light I could see more details of who this man was. His skin was darkly tanned. Scars marked his flesh. His face was sculpted from stone. Each plane perfectly aligned with other elements of his features. Perfectly balanced. More handsome than any man I knew. Thick brows curved over stormy, gray eyes, so dark as to nearly be black. Full, sensual lips drew my attention. Further inspection revealed a thickly muscled neck, broad chest, and defined abdominal muscles. Pants covered his body from the waist down. Thighs the size of tree trunks supported his weight. Every bit of him was constructed for one purpose: war, and victory.

Beast moved toward me, a hand curling around my bicep, pulling me toward the chair where I sat, without question. He sat in the chair opposite mine. He pushed a bowl of some thick, fragrant stew across the table. A glass of water followed.

“Eat.” Stormy eyes observed me closely. I stirred the stew, took one bite, and knew I would be sick. My stomach roiled, nausea filling my gut. “Eat, Omega.”

“I can’t,” I whispered, eyes screwed shut, hands clutching my stomach.

“Are you ill?”

“I think I’m going to be sick.”

At my muffled admission, Beast sprang into action. He carried me to the bathroom. The clink and clatter of the chain, followed. At least it was long enough to allow me to visit the bathroom. I bent over the toilet, gut clenching, perspiration icing my brow. Without warning, the contents of my stomach spewed into the bowl. I flushed the commode, pushed past Beast to the sink where I rinsed my mouth. The metallic stench of Omega fear no doubt filled the air. If he detected it, he said nothing. I stood with my head down, hands clenched. Defeated. Terrified.

To my surprise, Beast carried me to the bed, even as my head swirled drunkenly. He pulled the blanket over me, fingers stroking my hair. “You should sleep,” he growled.

“Why am I here?” the faintly spoken words spilled past lips gone suddenly dry.

“You will be my mate. The Omegas are nearly extinct. Did you think I would let one of my men take you?” he chuckled, obviously quite pleased at his discovery. “Your scent drew me from over a mile away. How could I deny an attraction so strong?”

“No. I will choose my mate.”

Beast grinned at my response. “No one told you that decision is made by the Alpha? Deceit I am grateful for. You are my mate.”

“You mean to rape me.”

Beast threw back his head, Adam’s apple bobbing as his laughter roared into the air. “No, little Omega. You will agree to this when you enter estrus.”

“Force does little to foster adoration.”

“Ah!” he sighed. A chuckle vibrated within his chest. “You do not understand my intentions, little one. An estrus induction will be injected. You will enter estrus. I will rut you through it. I will claim you when the time is right. It is your duty to give me a child. Hopefully, many children. How is it no one has claimed you before now?”

His words came with practical precision. The thought dawned on me that this Alpha spent some time planning all of this. He misunderstood the selection process.

“My people believed the Omega should select her mate. I found none worthy among the Alphas there.” Ice tinged my words. It failed to cool his curiosity.

“And no battles for the right to rut you through estrus occurred?” His eyes narrowed, voice deepening with the question.

“The village elders constructed a place for Omegas to reside during estrus. A cave with only one entrance turned into a makeshift home. Several fences surrounded it. Beta guards were placed there, at all times. The sentence for breaking into the enclosure was death. None of the Alphas in my village were foolish enough to attempt it.”

Beast laughed at my explanation. “How fortunate for me none were worthy of your attention. How old are you?”

“I celebrated my twenty second name day this spring.” Dread tinged the whispered words.

A hand nearly as large as my head reached out, fingers trailing across my lips. “You are untouched.” A gaze tinged with fire held mine for a moment. “I shall enjoy claiming you, little Omega.”

“I don’t even know your name.”

“I am Kade, the uncrowned king of Barkjour Isle,” he chuckled, narrowed eyes holding my gaze. “Your place by my side is mandated. Every king must have a queen.”

My mind shut down at his words. I knew with certainty this madman meant to keep me. It was all too much to process. I fell asleep with hopes I would wake up to find this day was a horrible nightmare.

*****

There would be no such luck. I woke at dawn to find Kade in bed with me. His powerful arms held my body so tight; I could scarcely breathe. Finally managing to wiggle free, I stood up, and grimaced when the chain clanked on the stone floor.

“Where do you think you’re going?” His voice had the same quality as boulders crashing down a mountain. Deep. Dangerous. Powerful.

“I have to use the bathroom.” Inwardly chastising myself for the tremor that crept into my voice, I stood with shoulders hunched, awaiting his response.

“Go.”

The bathroom was functional. It contained a shower, sink, medicine cabinet, and commode. After emptying my aching bladder, I washed my hands, and rinsed my mouth with water. I turned with dread toward the door. The door that lay between me, and my captor. I knew taking too long could raise his ire. It occurred to me that doing so was unwise.

He sat up in bed, the blanket pulled across both legs to his waist. Stormy eyes watched as I walked to the bed. The chain clinked with each step. My ankle ached from the shackle. I paused at the side of the bed. He caught me, pulling me into bed with him, forcing me to sit on his lap. His fingers traced the outline of each facial feature before moving to stroke along bare arms, and legs. Panic roared out of control when his hand moved above a knee. Slapping at his hands did nothing to dissuade him. If anything, it increased his determination.

“I will touch you in any way I wish. What is your name, Omega?”

“Mia.”

I thought to call him by his given name. Kade.

The possessive nature of his hands, and the foul temper displayed since our ill-fated meeting on the beach, forced the thought from my mind. I thought of him only as Beast. Perhaps he would care enough at some point to encourage my use of his given name.

Kade’s hand moved to the apex of my thighs, fingers sliding beneath the leg band of my panties. My reaction was instantaneous. Legs clamped together, I grabbed his hand, whimpering, struggling, anything to prevent the intimate exploration of my body.

A deep growl rumbled in his chest before bursting free. My belly ached, tensing until I groaned. Unconcerned with his exploration, my hands moved instead, to clutch my belly. “Stop! Please. My belly aches.” I found myself flat on my back. Beast crouched over me, glaring, jaw clenched. Every muscle in his body tensed, ready to explode into action.

“Please, no!”

“You will call me by my given name. I am your Alpha. You will submit to me in any way I find pleasing. Has no one told you of these things?”

“Of course, they have. You may not touch me without my permission.”

Kade growled, eyes mere slits. A groan of appreciation came, inciting a cramp that forced my cry free. “I have every right.”

“Only after you claim me,” I said in protest.

“Never doubt that I fully intend to claim you.”

His declaration frightened me. Would he wait for estrus? Customs differed here. Could I trust Kade to be caring, and gentle?

His possessive touch annoyed me. “Let me go home, back to the village. They need me!” My fists pounded against his stony chest.

Kade caught my hands before forcing them over my head. Pinned, I could not move, could not refuse his advances. He caught my mouth in a ferocious, scorching kiss that took my breath. Nipping. Teasing. Groaning. Frozen, unable to move, I knew he could easily overpower me. Resistance was futile.

“Not now, Mia. We will attend to this matter. You will be injected with an estrus inducing compound. When it takes effect, you will be mine.” He released me, and rose to his knees. His body was even more impressive without clothing. Muscular, rippling with raw power. Even that part of him that jutted proudly from his groin as it pulsated, leaking clear fluid.

He left the bed, stalking to a dresser where he retrieved clothing. A pair of camouflage pants, and tank top. The combat boots appeared to be the only footwear he owned. “Come. I want you to see what greatness my people have created on this island.”

Kade unlocked the shackle before taking my hand. He led me down the long hallway. Two wooden doors, nearly a foot thick, standing well over ten feet in height, guarded the entrance to the Garrison. Each door was reinforced with metal straps. Kade opened one door before leading me outside into the sunlight. An expansive courtyard opened before me. The area bustled with activity. Each person seemed intent on some duty. None of them lingered other than giving a nod, and cursory greeting.

Guards in armor patrolled the top of the wall. Each man carried a weapon. Kade led me through the courtyard. The beehive of activity was reflected in each area I saw. An armory. Barracks. A stable of heavily muscled horses, similar to those commonly found on the island where I once lived.

“There is more, Omega, that I cannot show you. My people have created greatness out of nothing more than forest, and earth,” Kade grinned when he spoke. His pride was certainly evident.

“There are so many weapons,” I murmured. “Why do you need them?”

He chuckled at my question. “For war. Those who held us captive will pay for their crimes, tenfold.”

Chapter 3

The Bursar

The ruins of a fallen metropolis held the controlling branch of a subterranean regime. Beneath the decaying debris of an ancient abode that once sheltered great leaders, Betas went about the task of plotting the world’s demise. Control, and utter domination. The two guiding principles marked every twisted deed.

Today’s summons would be no different. Of that much, I was certain.

I picked my way along through rubble littering the floor of a tunnel. A pallid halo of light, from the light carried in one hand, provided the only illumination. A heavy blanket of darkness surrounded me. The smell of mold, combined with whatever lived in the tunnel, created a fetid stench. Breathing through my mouth with a surgical mask in place presented itself as the only option. Should I smell, or taste, the funk? Neither option impressed me as appetizing.

Rustling, and squeaks, occasionally broke the silence, marked only by dripping water. Rodents scurried away when I approached. Puddles of water soaked my footwear. Misery. The pay for the job offer had better be worth it. Shoes were damned expensive on the mainland.

The faint flickering of a broken neon sign marked my goal. “trance” glowed red. The e and n had long since stopped working. I rapped on the door with a knuckle, wincing at the sensation of rust as it dug into my flesh. The door opened to reveal a worker drone. He wore the trademark gray coveralls with One World’s emblem on one side of the chest.

“You’re late,” the Beta muttered.

“Try picking your way through the ruins. See how your day goes.” My voice strained the words past the sneer that automatically formed at the dig. “Let’s get this over with. Is the director in?”

“He’s waiting for you.”

Sickly yellow light lit the hallways. I followed the Beta through the maze past doors. Some were closed. Others stood open. Glimpses of people at work on the next twisted One World project brought curiosity. What were they up to?

I nearly ran into the Beta’s back when he stopped suddenly. He opened the door, beckoning for me to enter. “Good luck.”

His quip, mixed with a sarcastic chuckle, infuriated me. A single-finger salute silenced his laughter. Prick.

The director’s office exhibited an opulence not evident in the other rooms I glimpsed on my way here. A thick crimson carpet softened my footsteps as I approached the polished mahogany desk. An old-school mahogany Victrola produced strains of classic piano music. Beethoven’s Fur Elise. At least he had good taste.

What an interesting moment. My first impression of the director. He sat behind the desk wearing what looked like a gray designer suit, white button down shirt, and thin black tie. Light reflected from his bald head. Oversized, round glasses made his dark eyes appear even smaller. Fat, moist lips smacked when he spoke. Disgusting. But he had credits to offer for what I could provide.

“You’re late.”

“Try outrunning a pack of feral dogs in the shithole above ground. See how you fare. Are we on for business, or do I need to take my offer elsewhere?” My voice held the sassy tone of a person who did not give a damn. I certainly did not. He could take or leave my offer. “Or have you been above ground since you came here? Probably not.”

“That is none of your concern. Have a seat.” The director’s gesture reminded me of a ballerina’s pirouette. Graceful with a sense of purpose.

A gray, overstuffed chair became my resting place. At least it was soft. The fabric bore no stains. Furniture of this quality was nearly unheard of in the wasteland. “We have business to conduct. I want to get out of this place before nightfall. Who knows what lives out there in the dark?” A cigarette flared to life after I found the pack, and a lighter in a pocket of my flight suit. The director frowned. He did not speak. “I can produce an Omega. What’s your offer?”

He sat back, crossing both hands on his paunchy belly. Dark eyes blinked several times in rapid succession. “One hundred thousand credits.”

Bastard. His offer was low ball, and he knew it. I could tell by the twitching corner of his fat lips. Two could play that game. “Half a million.” Highball offer.

The director grunted, his face losing a bit of its ruddiness. One finger twitched. He was nervous. How apropos. “One hundred fifty thousand. You push your luck, Beta. I have other sources.”

“Bullshit. I have a legitimate source. An unclaimed Omega in her prime. Thank you for the game of chess. I suppose I’ll take my offer elsewhere.” The instant I stood up, the energy in the room changed. Before, it lingered in the director’s favor. Now, it lingered in mine.

The director sat up. Perspiring hands clenched into fists that rested on the desk’s top. He tipped his hand. I had him, and we both knew it. “A quarter million credits. That’s as high as I can go without prior authorization from the directorate.”

“I require half up front.” We stood staring at each other. I smiled, leaned over the desk with my hands splayed on its polished surface. Eye to eye. “Or, I walk out that door. And I won’t be back.”

“Gods! Hold on, let me see what I have here.” His voice quaked in much the same way his hands did. His steely façade, and cocksure attitude, disintegrated right in front of me.

Holding one wrist at the same level as the director’s eyes, I tapped my wrist. “Tick, tock.”

The director stood on trembling legs. He walked to a painting on one wall, removed it, and opened the safe secreted there. Seconds later, he returned with a silk satchel filled with credits which he placed in my hand.

“There’s no need to count it. I am a man of my word,” he assured me.

“One World, and honor? Not sure I believe that.” I turned to go then paused at the door. Looking over one shoulder, I reaffirmed my demands. “If you short my demanded price, I’ll take the Omega elsewhere. I’m certain there are Alphas in this world who would kill to have their own Omega.”

“The remainder of your payment will be set aside, pending delivery of the package.”

The journey through the tunnels into the light of day took less time. Several factors influenced my speed. The pack of feral dogs would be waiting. I worried other threats of the bipedal variety might await me. I knew One World’s treachery ran deep. I wouldn’t put it past them to send an assassin to take me out after the thinly veiled threats tossed out in the director’s office.

There was no time to worry over those concerns. I had a transport to pilot to an island in the Atlantic. An Omega worth her weight in gold waited for me there. She just didn’t know it.

Chapter 4

Kade: Now

I knew she would be mine. The heady sweetness of her scent drew me from the scouting mission on Marleche. My intention was only to gather intelligence. Alpha instinct dictated I take the rare Omega. One of the only Omegas I knew existed in the past thirty years. The others died in the prison. Less than half a dozen--rarer than precious gems. All slaughtered at the hands of feral Alphas.

Shoving the thoughts aside kept the crimson haze from invading my thoughts. If there were more Omegas, no one knew where they lived. No doubt, they were hidden away from One World’s nefarious plan.

She turned as I approached. The noise from my party attracted her attention. Air caught in my throat. Blue-black hair cascaded down her back. It hung even with her waist. Skin made golden from time in the sun. Her body was lean, yet curvaceous in a way that pleased me. I laughed when she ran, feet digging into the sand as she tried to escape. The stench of Omega fear mixed with her natural scent. Nostrils flaring, I pursued her, without question. Her cry of indignation when I caught her did little to dissuade me.

It was only when she sat beside me in the transport that I saw her eyes. The color of honey, fear glistened in the depths. Thick, dark lashes fluttered at my appraisal. She looked away before resting clasped hands in her lap.

Her admission that she had yet to be claimed fired my need. An innocent Omega, such as Mia, was to be treasured above anything.

Now, as she stood at my side, brows drawn together at my explanation of the need for weapons, I knew injecting her with a heat inducing compound was right. My cock thickened at the thought of claiming her. There were other women. Always a Beta willing to service my needs. All of them paled in comparison to my Omega.

“Who held you captive?” Honey eyes met mine when she spoke. The acrid scent of fear lessened when she spoke to me.

“One World. A universal government everyone thought was defeated after the Great War.” Every muscle in my body tensed at the memories rushing back. Of being taken from my parents who lay dead after fighting the soldiers who took me. Of being thrown in a cell. Of being forced to eat slop not fit for hogs. Rage brewed in my gut. Bubbling. Thriving. Living.

Mia cried out. It was only then I realized my grip on her hand tightened. I knelt beside her, examining the bruises where my fingers clasped hers. Tears glistened in her eyes. She observed me, her face flat, and devoid of emotion.

“My apologies for hurting you. We should go, now.” I rose to my feet, taking her hand. I led her into the Garrison toward the medical bay.

Mia’s eyes widened when we entered the room. Berenger, the medic turned doctor, approached us. His insistence upon wearing scrubs added to his official role. He stood a foot, or so, taller than Mia. His body was lean, and lanky. Neatly trimmed brown hair, and brown eyes added to the professional demeanor.

“Are we ready?” Berenger asked. He motioned toward a gurney.

I expected resistance from the Omega. Her complacent behavior pleased me. She lay on the gurney, without question. The calm on the exterior was not reflected in her eyes.

Stormy. Turbulent. Stressed. All reflected in the honey depths. I sat beside her, holding her hand while Berenger palpated Mia’s upper arm to locate the prime location for the injection. Afterwards, I led her to my room. She did not speak the entire time.

Last night, after she fell asleep, I met with members of the staff who worked inside the Garrison. Instructions were given regarding clothing for my mate. The staff followed my directions, without question. It pleased me to see our meals, and clothing for Mia, inside our quarters. The morning meal sat on the table near the narrow window.

“You now have clothing. And our meal awaits us,” I explained.

Mia picked at the food, barely eating more than a few forkfuls of eggs. The bacon, fruit, and buttered toast lay untouched. She drank the milk, without question, but barely sipped the coffee. My concern grew, yet I brushed it aside. Instinct dictated that I claim, and impregnate her. It clamored in the darkest recesses of my mind. It took every bit of concentration, and effort I could muster, to shove it away.

After the meal ended, she stepped into the bathroom, alone, where I heard the shower running. The faint sound of sobs made my gut clench. Foolish Omega. Did she not understand the importance of her place? She appeared moments later, hair still damp from the shower, wearing a clean dress. Her feet were bare.

“Mia.” I crooked a finger in her direction, beckoning for her to approach. She did so, each step taken as if thick mud prevented her forward movement. “What ails you?”

She shrugged, eyes downcast, refusing to answer. Her stubbornness did not last long as the effects of the estrus induction became apparent. Restless, she began to pace the room. Mia was not content with the changes taking place in her body.

“You are entering the early stages of estrus.” My confirmation brought a hiss of irritation from her. At my laughter, she fixed me with a heated gaze. Every emotion she felt was reflected in pupils that began to dilate. “Come. Let me soothe you.”

Mia’s pacing reached a frantic pace. She fled to the bathroom where she remained longer than I was comfortable with. A rap on the door went unanswered.

“Mia, open the door.” Hysterical laughter, intermingled with sobs, met my demand. My fist rattled against the solid metal door. It would not be easily breached. “Open the door, pet. I do not want to hurt you when I tear the door from its hinges.”

I rolled my shoulders when she chose to ignore me. The bones cracked with the release of tension. Unbeknownst to Mia, a key lay in the top drawer of the dresser. I retrieved it, and unlocked the door.

The door swung open to reveal her crouched on the floor. She managed to break a razor apart, and held the blade against her wrist. A scream burst from her throat when I grabbed her hands, fingers biting into the tender flesh. Blown pupils revealed the truth of her mental state, as did the writhing of her body against mine. The transition from early estrus, to full estrus, progressed more rapidly than Berenger, or I, expected it would. The next time we used the estrus induction, it would be necessary to reduce the amount administered.

Mia kicked, and screamed, like a wild animal. I growled low in my throat; eyes narrowed. The dress parted with one tug of my hand. The feverish fire of the rut filled my veins. My cock throbbed, and leaked. A crimson haze infiltrated the periphery of my vision. Stalking to the bed, I held her in the center with one hand, while I stripped my clothing off, and kicked the boots away. I caught a nipple in my mouth, tugging until she howled. The crimson haze encroached further until Mia’s blown pupils nearly disappeared. The first thrust was the sweetest. My cock breached the narrow passage that milked its length. She screamed. I roared; head flung back as my hips settled into a furious rhythm. The desperate need to knot my mate increased exponentially.

Everything faded into the crimson haze.

*****

My vision cleared, as did my mind. I lay on my back, gasping for breath. A mixture of sweat, semen, and Mia’s slick covered most of my body. I sat bolt upright, turning until I saw her. She lay huddled near the top of the bed. Both knees were drawn against her breasts. Tears poured. A bloody claiming mark marred the golden skin of one shoulder. Blood trickled along her collar bone.

My feral nature led to Mia’s suffering. A new urge rose high within me. Protect. Calm. Sooth. It disappeared as suddenly as it appeared.

The feral urge to rut ruled supreme.

I tugged her toward me, spreading her thighs even as I mounted her, once again. One hand guided my cock home. Each blissful thrust inside her clasping silk brought the red haze further into my field of vision. Nothing mattered except the urge to fuck. To knot. To claim.

Mia’s fingers clawed at my arms. She howled, writhing, and bucking, as I took her roughly. The instant my orgasm began, the knot swelled. Grinding deep, locking it behind her pubic bone, I gave in to the crimson haze that demanded I claim her.

Had it not already been done?

The beast within me assumed control. My teeth ripped into the flesh of her pristine shoulder.

As the crimson cleared from my vision, I realized I lay on my back with Mia sprawled on top of me. She whimpered, and writhed. A purr rose within my chest. When she calmed, I slept. I woke much later to find her huddled at my side; a blanket’s hem held against her face. She wept, soft sobs that made my gut coil, and clench.

I yanked the blanket away. My eyes fell on the wounds now marring both shoulders. The first was the least serious of the two. The second was a fucking mess. A flap of skin dangled onto her collarbone. Both were bruised, deep purple merging into crimson. An indentation marked each of my teeth on her flesh. My feral nature made me mutilate my mate. The pair bond writhed in my chest, the tendril’s dissonance telling me of her fear, and pain.

The purr came as she wiggled away. Both eyes opened to reveal a flat, lifeless light now lived within her. I felt it in my chest. The anguish bitter, and intensely painful. I carried Mia to the bathroom where I attempted to tend both wounds. Though her jaw, and hands clenched, not once did she cry out. Closer inspection of the second wound revealed stitches would be needed. The intercom system within the Garrison made summoning Berenger a simple task. I wrapped Mia in a clean blanket. She lay unmoving on the bed while I pulled on a pair of pants.

Berenger’s arrival was signaled by three sharp knocks on the door. His nostrils flared at the scent filling the room. “I’m surprised you called me to come here seeing as how this is only the second day of her estrus.”

“Tend the claiming marks.”

“Marks?”

“Just tend the damned marks!” I roared, rage at my own loss of control with Mia worsening my usually foul temper.

Berenger approached the bed. He spoke to Mia in a soft tone. She did not respond. He glanced at the wounds, then at me over one shoulder. “What in the hell have you done to her, Kade? The one on her left shoulder is completely normal. The other? Fuck!”

Time passed as Berenger lay a suture kit on the bedside table. I watched as he cleansed, and sutured the worst wound, before bandaging it. Ten sutures held the flap of skin in place.

He tended the other claiming mark. Without a word, he vacated the room. Judgment lingered behind him. Its stench was almost tangible in the air.

Mia’s estrus continued for five days. I managed to control the crimson haze I knew came from my feral nature in the time that remained. She submitted to me only because instinct demanded she must. My concern grew over that time when she refused to eat, drinking only water, or milk, which I knew was her preferred beverage.

I tried to repair the damage created by my brutality when we both thought with clear minds.

She lay sleeping one morning. Pink cheeks, rosy lips, a hand curled on the pillow by her face. The perfect image of peace, and beauty. I woke her with a kiss against one ear. A hand cupped her face. My thumb stroked her cheekbone when she faced me. Dilated pupils. Parted lips. The pulse beating madly in the hollow of her neck. All indicators that my Omega needed my calm strength.

A purr vibrated in my chest. Mia’s breathing, and pulse, slowed. The trembling of her body eased. Could I learn to be the Alpha she needed?

“Did you rest well, Mia?”

“I did, thank you,” she murmured.

She accepted the hand I offered. The embrace we shared after I helped her from the bed, warmed my heart. Tranquility filled the pair bond. An almost overwhelming sense of peace filled the center of my chest. A gift from my Omega. I now understood the process. Her feelings filtered through the tendril.

“I would like to take you for a walk. A meadow filled with beautiful flowers lies a short walk from The Garrison. Would you do me the honor?” I bowed, and beamed at her.

“I would enjoy that,” she murmured. She disappeared inside the bathroom, only to reappear moments later wearing a loose dress belted at the waist. Simple sandals completed the outfit. She wore only her ample natural beauty. No cosmetics marred the sheer perfection of her face. Raven tresses fell in waves down her back.

Mia willingly accepted my hand. She followed at my side, meekly holding my hand. I waited until we arrived in the meadow to broach the difficult topic with her. I led her to a stream cut through the center of the field. A rainbow of colorful, exotic flowers highlighted the field of emerald. Sunlight danced on turquoise water as it flowed toward the sea. Mia’s intake of breath gave me hope.

“We can sit here by the stream. The water comes straight from the mountains. If you would like, we can dangle our feet in the stream.”

Mia kicked the sandals off her feet. I joined her after unabashedly removing the boots, and socks that served as a staple of my wardrobe. Cool water soothed my heated feet. I reached for Mia’s hand. Holding it gently between mine, I broached the topic.

“It’s beautiful here,” I remarked. “This is the only place on this island I’ve seen wildflowers of this nature.”

“It reminds me of my home.” Her eyes remained focused on the water. Anywhere but on her mate. This would be more difficult than I expected.

“I wanted to apologize for what occurred during your estrus. I did not intend to treat you so harshly.”

An intake of breath combined with the tightening of her fingers against mine. “I thought the act of claiming only occurred once. That’s what the village elders told us.”

“May I share with you some of the things that occurred in my life? I can’t excuse my behavior, only explain what influenced the events.” Her nod gave permission to proceed. A deep breath, and moment of silence, strengthened me to revisit the most traumatic event of my life. “I was just a boy, perhaps ten, when soldiers stormed the village where I lived with my parents. All the adults were murdered. I could not save them. None of us could. The soldiers took me, and boys like me, hostage.”

“That’s horrible!” Mia gasped, eyes widening in reaction to the first chapter of my story.

“We were held in a prison. Any boy who refused to obey, met the god of death in a corner of the prison yard. I only had to hear the gunshots a few times to know I wanted to live. Sometimes, I wonder if I made the best decision.” Breath whistling between my teeth followed those words. Mia leaned against my body, her lips coming to rest against my hand. The simple show of support gave me strength to continue.

“We were kept in cells, fed slop not fit for hogs. Occasionally, we would receive meal replacement bars. Those were rare treats that I appreciated. Alphas were moved to a section of the prison set aside for the breeding program, the day they reached the age of eighteen. The things that occurred there horrified everyone in one way, or another. I chose to channel my fear into the need for revenge.”

“What happened?” Mia whispered. She released my hand only to encircle my waist with her arms.

An arm around her shoulders, I pulled her closer. The warmth of her embrace comforted me. I thought I could hold the emotion in. The fear, and rage, threatened to burst free. Harnessing every iota of my self-control, I continued with the story of my nightmare.

“Occasionally, an Omega in estrus would be forced into a cell with a group of Alphas. They intended to create an army of feral Alphas to wage war on mankind. We ... the Omegas died at our hands. My hands are covered in innocent blood, Mia. None of us were taught the proper way to rut an Omega through her estrus. We did not know purring calmed an Omega. All I ... we could focus on was the need to rut, and knot, and breed. I’m nothing more than an animal, Mia. That animal took control during your estrus. I can never apologize enough for what occurred.” Biting back emotion that threatened to break free, I clamped my jaws shut. Grinding my teeth, taking deep breaths. Focusing on Mia, I managed to regain calm—or, some semblance of it.

“I can’t imagine what it was like for you, and the others. I’m so sorry you experienced those horrific things.” Her fingers clutched my shirt. A whisper of a caress of her lips on my chest forced me to smile.

Gods help me! She’s too pure, too good for a beast like me.

“Don’t feel sorry for me. You know what I am capable of--at least to a degree.”

“I don’t feel sorry for you. My heart breaks when I think of you as a little boy being treated that way. It helps me understand.”

A shuddering breath rushed from my lungs. “Help me learn how to be the Alpha you need, Mia. I will try to learn.”

“That’s all we need, Kade. I promise to be more understanding of your inner demons.”

My gut clenched to hear my name on her lips. “How can you trust me so readily?”

Her shoulders rose and fell. “An Omega will tend to her mate and offspring. It’s a part of my instincts.”

“I’m not certain I deserve that gift.”

Mia glanced up at me. Her eyes caught and held my gaze for a second. “You won’t know unless you accept it.”

“You really are more than I deserve.” Tired of dwelling on the topic, I stood up. “Would you like to pick some flowers?”

Mia dried her feet in the grass. We put on our shoes before walking hand-in-hand into the meadow. Scarcely a dozen flowers made their way into her bouquet before the urge to hold her close overwhelmed me. She fit against the planes of my body as if carved by a master sculptor for that purpose. Lashes so long the tips touched her eyebrows, fluttered as I held her gaze. I felt the trembling, a clear indicator of her uncertainty. The purr came instinctively, vibrating my chest as I caught her lips hungrily. The hunger was tempered with concern for my mate. A fierce growl came on the heels of the purr’s end.

I could not withstand the command in the heady scent of her slick. Mia did not resist when I pushed her onto the ground. The peaceful babbling of the stream by our side calmed the feral beast as it rose within me. I took her gently, tugging, and rubbing her clit as my cock stroked deep in her honeyed channel. She came undone around me, with a gasping cry that made holding back impossible. We lay sprawled in the sunlight, intimately joined, sweaty, and replete.

Mia nuzzled my neck. The touch surprised me. The salty warmth of her tears wet my chest. A soft sob rippled through her body.

“Talk to me, pet?” My fingers tangled in her hair, fingertips massaging her scalp.

“You didn’t mean to hurt me, so badly. I know that, now. What they did to you was so utterly wrong. How could they?” Her voice was muffled against my chest. My finger beneath her chin lifted her tear-streaked face.

My mate cried for the suffering I experienced as a child. The knowledge rocked me. “I was only Kade then. It felt like I was much less than that. To be wanted only for my seed. The ability to reproduce. For the first time, I feel like I belong to someone. I belong to you, Mia, for what it is worth.” Mia nestled closer, her hand cupping my cheek.

“What do I mean to you?” Her whispered question forced a twisted shaft of anguish through the tendril.

“You are my mate, my Omega. I want everything the Alpha-Omega pair bond offers. Be patient with me. I am learning how to control my feral nature. If I frighten you, or treat you roughly, tell me.”

Our conversation came to an end when the knot softened. My cock slipped free, only to be followed by a gush of seed pouring from Mia’s body. She gasped, fingers curling against the fabric of my shirt. Thankfully, I had the foresight to strip her of the dress, and myself of pants, and shoes, before making love in the field. My shirt faced the ultimate sacrifice as I tore it into two pieces for my mate. I dipped one piece of cloth into the cool waters of the nearby stream. The makeshift washcloth cleansed the evidence of our joining from our flesh. The other pieces of my shirt served as a towel.

Something changed after that day in the meadow. Mia became more relaxed. She no longer froze in fear when I sought to hold, or caress her. She initiated mating, taking great pleasure in our joining. When I became too aggressive, or drifted off into the crimson haze, she called my name, demanding that her rightful mate return to her. My chest soon filled with not only the pair bond, but something more.

Our idyllic time came to an end two months after Mia’s arrival at the Garrison. Word came from scouts on the mainland that One World held more Alphas in a prison. My focus shifted to rescuing my brothers.

On the morning of our departure, I assigned Gabel, a Beta with just over a year in my service, to attend Mia while I was gone.

“You will see that she is safe, and cared for. Do not allow her to escape. Do you understand?” I asked Gabel before boarding the transport. The threat remained in my eyes. I willed it there to warn him what would happen if he failed to care for my mate.

“I understand, sir,” he bowed his head, the bald spot in its center gleaming in the sunlight. The man reminded me of a ferret. Thin faced. Sharp-toothed. Beady, bright eyes, dark as coal.

He was the only Beta remaining who could fill the role as Mia’s caregiver, and keeper. I pushed my misgivings aside just before entering the transport. It was time to bring my brothers home.

Chapter 5

Mia

Kade’s claiming during my estrus made me question everything. I vaguely remembered the savage ripping of his teeth on my flesh not once, but twice. The second time was the worst. A flap of skin allowed blood to dribble constantly down my breast. Even Berenger was horrified by the wound.

What could I do? You are a pathetic, weak, Omega. My mind brought the darkest thoughts to the forefront. I retreated inside my mind in an attempt to protect myself.

Kade would not have it. Each day he forced me to talk to him. Conversations that exhausted me. It was impossible to deny his magnetic charm. The day in the meadow broke through the walls erected around my heart, and mind. I began to trust him. Allowed myself to believe things would be different.

For a time, things changed. Kade treated me with gentle respect, reserving his passion, and constant need for mating, for the privacy of our room. I opened my heart. We did not speak the words. One day we might say the words aloud. At this moment, I felt them only in my heart.

When summer faded into fall, and the air cooled, Kade received word that more Alphas were held in One World’s prison on the mainland. I knew he would go before the words fell from his lips. The ache in my chest, the writhing tendril, told me all I needed to know.

“I won’t be gone long,” he promised the morning he left. “Just long enough to bring my brothers home. Gabel will watch after you. Promise you won’t try to escape, Mia.”

“I promise,” I murmured as I stood on tiptoes, face uplifted for his kiss. The urge came to tell him that his baby grew within my womb. No. It would distract him from his purpose. The secret would greet him upon his return.

My life changed the instant the transport rose high in the air. Gabel came to my room carrying a chain, and shackle, in one hand. “Come with me, little Omega. I have something to show you.”

An icy shard of fear pierced my heart. Beady eyes gleamed with hatred. I followed with great trepidation. Gabel’s intentions were not honorable. I cried through the tendril for my Alpha to return, to save me.

Kade did not return.

Gabel led me to the stable, to a far stall where a pile of hay, a ragged blanket, and a bucket of water awaited me. Frigid metal clamped around my ankle. The key turned in the lock. The free end of the chain nailed to a post as large as Kade’s thigh. I would not be going anywhere soon.

My torment lasted four weeks. Gabel called me the Omega whore when he brought scraps of food. The remains of the food eaten by those left behind to guard the Garrison. He resorted to kicking me when I refused to react. The heavy boots bruised my back, buttocks, and legs. I turned away, knees drawn close to my body to protect the baby.

A prayer for death fell from my lips after a week of such treatment. Begging the gods for death that night as frost covered the land. “Let me die,” I whispered. “They hate me. Save me from this fate, I beg you!”

No reply came. I buried my face in frigid, dirty hands. It was then I heard an angel’s voice.

“Miss, I’ve brought you something to eat. Don’t be afraid. I’m not here to hurt you,” the girl whispered with a smile. She was a tiny thing, younger than me. Wisps of blonde hair protruded from beneath the hood pulled over her head. I could barely make out blue eyes in the bright light of the full moon. “It’s a sandwich. I made sure the bread, and ham, were thick. I hope you like ham. I have a pint of milk.”

I sat up slowly. One hand pushed hair tangled with hay away from my eyes. “Why would you help me? The others call me Omega whore.”

The girl smiled. “I’m Tilda, by the way. You’re not a whore. Master Kade chose you. You are his mate.” She handed me the sandwich, and milk.

I ate like a starved animal, cramming bread, and ham into my mouth, scarcely chewing. I sobbed after the last bite disappeared into my stomach. The milk was fresh. A hint of sweet cream mixed with its taste. I drank it all, even turning the bottle up several times to see if another drop, or two, would fall upon my tongue.

“I’m so cold,” I admitted as a deep shiver wracked my body.

“I’ll stay with you until dawn. At least you’ll be warm for a few hours. Would that be alright, Miss?”

My arms closed around Tilda’s body. The hug soothed me. A pang of loneliness came unbidden. “Yes, please. I don’t want you to be in trouble.”

“I won’t be, Miss. I’ll leave at dawn before they come to feed the horses.”

That night, I slept so soundly I felt hungover when I woke. Gabel appeared. Crawling into the corner of the stall, I sought to make myself small, and inconspicuous. For once, he did not kick, or curse me. The bowl of scraps sat just out of reach. A new game he concocted. The bowl of food remained just out of reach. At least the bucket of water was close. Starvation would have been my fate had it not been for Tilda’s nightly appearances with food, and milk.

I lost track of time. Day faded into night. Days into weeks. Tilda grew frantic with worry. She stretched the boundaries of her time with me. My angel placed herself in danger--to save me.

“How long have I been here?” I whispered one night as Tilda spooned against my back.

“Just over three weeks.”

“I’m afraid Gabel will know I’m pregnant.” Tilda’s hand came to rest on the rounding of my belly as I spoke. “He beats me nearly every day. Why does he hate me, Tilda?”

“Gabel hates himself. He cannot love another until he learns to love himself.”

Tilda’s explanation brought a bit of clarity to the situation. It did not ease the ache of the ankle that I knew was infected after weeks of the shackle biting into my flesh. I fell asleep as a great emptiness filled my heart. I knew I would die here. My baby would die here. I prayed it would end quickly. I cried until both eyes swelled shut. The misery grew exponentially, as did hopelessness.

My next moment of awareness came when the sun broke through snow clouds. I shivered as snowflakes drifted through cracks in the wall, settling over me until a blanket of snow covered my body.

“Here she is, sir! I told you Gabel locked her in the barn as soon as you left. He beats, and kicks her, calling her an Omega whore. I’ve tried to feed and keep her warm at night. She’s ... she carries your child, sir. Please, save my friend.” Tilda’s frantic voice broke through the haze of a dull, dry warmth that encompassed me.

Kade crouched there, brow furrowed, eyes flashing with fury. His big hands turned my body, one settling on my belly. A roar of fury shook the very ground. Tilda loomed over me, bright blue eyes wide, and filled with tears.

“Don’t cry for an Omega whore like me,” I murmured. “The gods will take me, now.”

“Stay for me, Mia. I need you,” Kade whispered.

Awareness faded as the Alpha lifted me in his arms.

Chapter 6

Kade

My brothers gathered in the transport for our journey home. Freeing them took time. Four weeks of daily agony as I worried about my mate. I hovered over the pilot’s shoulder, eyes following the transport’s path to Barkjour Isle, and Mia. The tendril twisted, and writhed, then went silent. Terror filled my heart. I knew what this meant--for me, for my mate.

“Maximum speed ahead,” I ordered the pilot.

“Sir, pushing this aging craft over the limit might…” the pilot said in protest.

My hand closed around his neck, fingers tightening until the words were cut off. “I said full speed ahead. Do not question me. Is that clear?”

The craft spewed smoke, and sputtered, but it remained in one piece. I bolted down the loading ramp as soon as it came to rest on the ground. The others followed, gathering behind me as was their habit. I was their commander. They would follow me to the ends of the earth.

Gabel stood in the center of the courtyard. His eyes widened, a sheen of perspiration covering his now pallid features. “Welcome back, sir. We ... I did not expect you back this quickly.”

“Where is my mate?” My words were tinged with fury, and retribution. If Gabel failed to keep Mia safe, he would pay the ultimate price.

The Alphas at my heels encircled Gabel. “She escaped, sir. I did everything I could to keep her here. She refused.”

“He’s lying!” a voice shrieked outside the circle of Alphas. “She’s hurt, and sick. He put her in the stable!”

“Take him to the dungeon. Two guards on the cell, two on the door, at all times.”

Two Alphas grabbed Gabel’s arms. They dragged him kicking, and screaming, to the dungeon. Two others followed behind them. I turned as the circle of Alphas parted to allow someone through. A slender Beta I recognized as one who worked in the kitchen. She tugged my sleeve, nearly frantic as words tumbled out in a jumbled mess.

“Please, sir, I’ll show you!” The Beta ran full tilt across the courtyard in the direction of the stable. I followed on her heels. My gut clenched when she led me to the last stall. “Here she is, sir! I told you Gabel locked her in the barn as soon as you left. He beats, and kicks her, calling her an Omega whore. I’ve tried to feed and keep her warm at night. She ... she carries your child, sir. Please, save my friend.”

The Beta’s words were lost as I saw Mia lying in a pile of straw, covered only with a ragged blanket. Snow dusted her hair, and the surrounding area. A roar spilled out. I turned Mia onto her back, eyes widening as the rounded belly came into view. No! Not my mate. Not my child. My hand came to rest on her belly.

“Don’t cry for an Omega whore like me,” Mia murmured. “The gods will take me, now.”

Rage gave me the strength to rip the chain in two. She was light as a feather in my arms, head lolling against my arm.

“Stay for me, Mia. I need you,” I whispered.

The Alphas who returned with me from the mainland parted as I walked from the stable. I cursed the horses we needed for hunting. I cursed the stable for being built. I cursed Gabel, and swore vengeance. Most of all, I cursed myself for failing to protect her.

Berenger appeared in the hall as I carried Mia to our room. He followed with a backpack of medical supplies. Mia’s Beta protector followed at my heels. I held my mate, refusing to release her as Berenger examined her from head, to toe.

“She’s dehydrated, hypothermic, and has lost quite a bit of weight. I’ll start an IV, and give her antibiotics. We need to get that shackle off her ankle,” Berenger advised me. I watched impassively as he inserted an IV in Mia’s hand. The bag of fluids lay against her chest.

My mate, and our unborn child, hung precariously on the scale between life, and death. The shackle’s removal revealed an ugly wound encircling Mia’s ankle. Rusted metal dug deep into her flesh. Pus oozed from the wound. The skin was an ugly, irritated red.

“Not good,” Berenger muttered. Mia did not move when he cleansed the wound.

The young Beta stepped forward. “Sir, may I stay, and help? I’ll do anything you ask me.”

“You helped her.” It was not a question, but a statement of fact. Why would a Beta so small, and defenseless, risk everything to help Mia when someone like Gabel lurked in the shadows?

She cared for Mia.

“I took her food, and milk, every night. I slept with her every night when it was the coldest. I made sure the water in the bucket was fresh.” The Beta glanced from Berenger to me. “I’d do it all over, again. I should have killed him. He deserves to die.”

The Beta could not know how true her words were. Gabel would die. His death would serve as an example to those who lived in the Garrison. The decision was made the instant I learned of Gabel’s treachery.

“What is your name, Beta?”

“Tilda. Will you allow me to serve her?”

A smile graced my face for a brief moment. “Of course. Mia needs someone as dedicated as you are.”

I sat with Mia in my arms, clutching a blanket around her that Tilda provided. It took several hours for her core temperature to rise close to a normal level. Honey eyes fluttered open. Her hand cupped my cheek.

“Kade?” The hesitation in her voice was nearly my undoing.

“Yes, love?”

“I wanted to tell you something important. I’m pregnant,” she murmured. “I should have told you before you left.”

“Your lovely belly gave the secret away.” My lips brushed her forehead. “Are you hungry?”

“Starving. And I need a bath. I stink.”

“I’ll get you something to eat, miss!” Tilda offered as she sprang off the floor.

“Tilda?” Mia wiggled free of my iron grip. She sat on my lap facing the young Beta. “Thank you for everything you’ve done. Would you mind bringing me one of your famous ham sandwiches?”

“You know I will. Would you like one, sir? Berenger will be back, soon. I bet he’s hungry, too,” Tilda grinned as she scuffed a toe on the floor. “You’re welcome, miss. I couldn’t bear the thought of you being hurt.”

In the time it took for Tilda to retrieve the food, my mate clung to me. Her head buried into the crook of my neck, and shoulder. I held her, content to stroke her hair, and purr as she calmed. The terror, and pain, she experienced while I was gone, flowed through the tendril. Each blow upon her flesh made me wince as she relived the experience in her mind.

Without warning, she sat up, arms looping about my neck, her mouth finding mine in a rare display of affection. Her fingers tangled in my hair. She straddled my lap, grinding against my groin. Gods! She would unman me if I let this continue.

I pulled away first, eyes tracing the outline of her face before catching, and holding her gaze. “When Berenger removes the intravenous line, and determines you are fit, little one, I will rut you into oblivion.” My hand moved along her back. The caress brought a cry of pain as she instinctively flinched. “I would see what he has done to you.”

“No, it’s fine. I’m just sore.”

Eyes narrowed, jaw clenched, I growled before carrying her to the bathroom while she cupped the bag of IV fluids in both hands. When she stood upright, I muttered, “I would see what Gabel has done to you.” There was no resistance as I tore the dirty clothing from her body.

“Kade, please.”

“Turn around, Mia.” She obeyed, without question. Perhaps the iron tinging my voice told of my determination to continue the examination.

My eyes widened at the evidence of Gabel’s torment. Bruises in various stages of healing, and cuts, covered the posterior of her body from neck, to heel. A hand skimmed over the exposed skin, pressing gently to assess for more serious injury. By the time the examination was complete, Mia’s eyes filled with tears. I pulled her against my chest, and held her as she cried. My comfort eased her suffering. Perhaps I could learn how to be a proper mate?

“Would you like a shower?”

Mia’s eyes met mine the instant the words were out. A rare grin appeared, only to disappear when she lifted the hand with the intravenous line. “What about this?” she murmured.

“I think we can manage a shower with that. Tilda should be back. Perhaps she would help?” With Mia’s approval, I opened the bathroom door only to find Tilda standing patiently with a tray containing three ham sandwiches, and drinks. “Tilda, would you put the food on the table, and come help me? Your mistress would like a shower.”

Tilda held the bag of IV fluids while Mia stepped into the steaming flow of water. She sighed, content to merely lean against the wall as the hot water flowed over her. Mia kept the hand with the IV elevated over her head, out of the water’s path. I assisted with shampoo, and other items, as needed. When Tilda saw Mia’s back, she gasped, but made no comment.

By the time Mia left the bathroom, she not only had taken a shower, but brushed her teeth. Bundled in a robe, a towel around her head, I carried her from the bathroom, only to be greeted with Berenger’s disapproving scrutiny.

“Would it matter if I express my disapproval?” Berenger muttered before stalking to the bed where I placed Mia.

“I feel much better, now,” Mia interjected. Her voice trembled as she spoke. “I haven’t had a bath in a month. I could only wash my face, and hands.”

Berenger’s irritation vanished when Mia spoke. “I apologize, Mia. I did not consider how important a shower would be. I’m certain the hot water helped warm you up a bit more.” He sat on the edge of the bed. He warmed the stethoscope in one hand before pressing it against her chest.

Berenger was thorough. That much was a given fact in all the years I knew him.

He checked all of Mia’s vitals, and temperature, before sitting back with a smile. “You are doing surprisingly well. Had I been here, I would have done everything in my power to prevent Gabel from abusing you so horribly. Accept my apologies, on behalf of the others, for what occurred.”

“Thank you,” Mia murmured.

“When you’re feeling stronger, I would like to conduct an ultrasound to help determine the baby’s due date.” Berenger gave Mia’s arm a pat. He declined the ham sandwich with the excuse that he had matters to attend to in the medical bay.

Mia ate Berenger’s sandwich, in addition to her own. She appeared to grow stronger with each bite of food she consumed. Color slowly filtered into her cheeks. Her voice grew stronger.

Tilda remained in our room until nightfall. When Mia yawned several times in succession, the young Beta left the room with a promise to return in the morning. Her eyes closed not long after I joined her in bed. She curled against my body, feet tucked against my legs. I slept fitfully, waking when Mia moved, or made a sound.

My thoughts lingered on Gabel, and an appropriate punishment for his crimes. Death was the only suitable option. To show weakness at this juncture would undermine my authority, and Mia’s position as my mate. Another thought occurred to me. There was one way to ensure her safety. A grin split my face as my plan for Gabel’s castigation solidified.

Near dawn, Berenger appeared in our room to assess Mia’s vitals, yet again. Flushed cheeks, and rosy lips indicated her condition was much improved over the day before. “I’ll continue with oral antibiotics, and remove the IV, now. The ankle is infected, but has improved with care. Your presence seems to be the best treatment for her, Kade.”

“I would argue her presence is the best treatment for a beast such as me.”

“Your intentions with her have evolved over time. Who would think the fierce warlord of Barkjour Isle would be tamed by a tiny Omega?” Berenger’s observation made me chuckle. His countenance grew flat, and emotionless, with the words that followed. “What do you intend to do with Gabel?”

“He will be sentenced later today.” I had no intention of revealing my plan for the ancient weapon retained in my personal armory, which, before now, served only as a museum for weapons, and armor. The kopesh in my hand would serve as Gabel’s judge, jury, and executioner.

“I hope you execute him. He deserves no leniency.” Berenger’s comment was tinged with malice, and something bordering on anger. He stood upright with hands clenched at his side as he spoke. Even the normally neutral expression on his face changed. Eyes narrowed. Brows drawn together. Jaw clenched.

It appeared my Omega had yet another devotee. It warmed my heart that slowly, but surely, my people grew more accepting of Mia. Before the day’s end, all would swear to accept, and protect her, and the child she carried, or they would meet the same fate as Gabel.

“We should discuss this elsewhere. Would you be so kind as to fetch Tilda to sit with Mia?”

Berenger went in search of Tilda. I maneuvered Mia into the mound of pillows. It concerned me that she had yet to begin nesting. Another matter to address. I dressed in clothing suitable to be worn beneath my armor.

Tilda entered after a hesitant knock on the door. Finger at my lips, I smiled at the young Beta who cared for my mate while I was away. No doubt, her care saved my mate’s life. I leaned over her, whispering instructions in her ear. Tilda beamed before going to the bed where she crawled beneath the blanket. My heart warmed even more for Tilda when she snuggled against Mia’s back, her free hand lightly stroking my mate’s hair.

I went in search of Berenger. He stood in the medical bay arranging supplies in cabinets, and the backpack he often carried when in the field. We huddled with our heads together, conversing about my plans for Gabel. Berenger I could trust. He had proven his loyalty through the years. Not once had he betrayed me.

“Gabel will die by my hand. Is Mia strong enough to be there?”

Berenger glanced at me, mouth open in shock. “Are you certain it’s wise for her to observe an execution?”

“I want all of my people to understand how important she is to me. There is another matter I wish to attend to, before the execution.” I moved even closer, a glance over one shoulder reassuring me that no one listened to our conversation. “The old Beta who professes to be an ordained minister. I would have him marry us on the steps of the Garrison, in front of everyone. It will be a brief affair. I do not wish to stress Mia.”

“You’re concerned marriage will stress her? What about the execution?”

My hand closed around Berenger’s throat before I could stop myself. The feral beast within me rose to prominence. The tone of my voice morphed into that of the beast, the one who would brook no arguments. The one who would wield the kopesh when Gabel met his fate.

“You have been a loyal member of our family, Berenger. Don’t let that change. It will be done. See to the arrangements. Have everyone gather in the courtyard at two this afternoon.” The grip on Berenger’s throat eased. His skin bore the faint outline of my fingers. Regardless of my affection for the man, I would not tolerate insubordination. Insubordination led to Mia’s maltreatment.

Insubordination is the root of many ills.

My personal armory resided down the hall from my quarters. My fingerprint activated the keyless lock. The door slid open with a soft hiss. A motion-activated light switch sprang into action. Soft blue light lit the room. Each wall was fitted with racks where weapons, and armor, were arranged. Everything from simple daggers, to swords, gun shields, a spring-loaded triple dagger, and my beloved kopesh, lined the walls where weapons were stored. A section of modern weapons was included. My most revered weapon from this wall was a pristine VLR, which, with the flick of a switch, could assume the role of assault rifle, or automatic pistol, and anything in between. Powered by lasers, it did not need reloading.

The armor walls included chain mail, full bullet-proof body armor, and the latest innovation retrieved from a One World prison, and research headquarters. Flat black body armor infused with bulletproof fibers, and synthetic flexing fibers. Once donned, it became almost one with the wearer's body. With the body’s heat, it clung to the wearer’s form like a second skin. Impervious to bullets, and lasers, it was a sight to behold. The armor was so high-tech, researchers had not yet named it.

I pulled the armor on without a second thought. A VLR in a holster attached to my back, daggers strapped to each thigh, and a kopesh in one hand--I knew I was ready to see my mate.

During my time away, Tilda, and Mia, accomplished a great deal. Mia’s hair gleamed from having been combed until not a tangle remained. She wore a cream knit dress, paired with a royal blue sweater. A pair of simple leather slippers completed her outfit. The kopesh clanked on the floor when I set it against the wall.

“You are simply amazing, pet.” I caressed her face, my free hand going to her belly. Tilda slipped out the door when I kissed Mia. “How are you feeling?”

“Much better, thank you,” she murmured. “Why are you wearing armor?”

“It is time I assert my authority. Do you think you can walk with me to the entrance of the Garrison? If not, I’ll more than gladly carry you.” A thumb caressed her cheekbone. The tendril in my chest hummed with relaxed energy. Mia rubbed her cheek against the palm of my hand.

“I think I can walk. I’ve had so much to eat today.”

Mia interlaced her fingers with mine. The journey to the entrance took minutes. The courtyard was crowded with people. It pleased me to see the man professing he was a minister standing with Berenger just outside the doorway.

“What’s going on?” Mia murmured.

“Marry me, pet. Let there be no doubt of my feelings for you, or your place at my side,” I replied. To the throng I shouted, “Welcome my bride. You will treat her with the same respect with which you treat me.”

Chapter 7

Mia

My legs trembled at Kade’s words. Marriage? It was an ancient rite signifying life-long love, and devotion. Marriages no longer existed. One World took that right from us, forbidding marriages that were not approved through the universal council. Only Kade would choose to re-institute marriage.

The throng of people gathered in the courtyard, roared. I hoped it meant they approved. An older man with wisps of gray hair, and blue eyes, carried a thick, leather-bound ledger in one hand as he stepped forward.

“Sign your names in the book. Your union will be the first recorded in Barkjour Island’s ledger.” The man beamed as we each wrote our name beside the date in the book. “Kade, do you take Mia to be your Omega, and mother of your children?”

“I do,” Kade replied.

“Mia, do you take Kade as your Alpha, and father of your children?”

“I do.” Kade pulled me close, a hand cradling the back of my head as he kissed me.

“Forever, Mia,” he rasped in a hoarse, rumbling voice that made shivers run along my spine.

The moment was not to last. Kade was determined to forge onward with other matters. He turned to face the crowd. One hand casually held the sickle-shaped weapon. “Uniting under one leader is the only way we can raise our people to greatness. I declare myself leader of Barkjour Island, and all who live here.”

Catcalls, and a roar of protest, came from some of the crowd. Others stepped forward to kneel before the man they accepted as their leader.

“You cannot lead! We agreed to democracy for one, and all!” someone in the crowd shouted.

“Take the Omega whore back to her people,” another yelled.

Kade released my hand before stepping forward. He roared, a fist pounding the center of his chest. The crowd fell silent. “If you do not wish me to lead, step forward, and fight me. If you can defeat me, you will lead!” His voice echoed in the quiet that hung like a pall over the crowd. “Are none of you confident in your abilities to defeat me? Come. Defeat me, or kneel at my feet.”

As one, the people who stood, knelt with the others. My knees nearly gave way at the thought of what this meant. Berenger, and Tilda, stood at my side to offer support. Kade’s agenda continued. Four Alphas carried Gabel to the top step. They forced the man to kneel in front of Kade.

“Gabel thought to abuse my mate while I was away freeing some of you from a One World prison.” Kade stood without speaking for nearly a minute. Not a sound came from the crowd as Gabel wept, and begged. “How do you answer the charges, Gabel?”

“I didn’t mean to hurt her!” Gabel’s voice was choked with tears. “I beg you, let me go! I will serve you, and your Omega, until the day I die.”

“One important word is missing from your claim.” Kade hefted the wicked weapon in his right hand. He moved closer to Gabel.

Gabel’s tear-streaked face raised, brows drawn together, spittle-covered lips, trembling. Confusion filled his countenance. “What word?”

“Faithfully,” Kade muttered.

Time froze. It moved forward sluggishly, one second at a time.

The Alphas holding Gabel’s arms, stepped aside. Kade raised the curved sword, then brought it down with brutal force.

A scream burst from my lips as the severed head fell to the stone pavers with a thud. Warm blood splattered everyone standing at the entrance while a fountain of crimson spouted from the headless corpse.

Kade’s foot came to rest in the center of the body’s chest. He shoved the body with one fluid movement. The body rolled backwards down the steps until it came to rest in front of the crowd of onlookers.

“You know the punishment for failure to respect my bride. If you cannot accept her, you have until nightfall to leave the Garrison. You have been warned,” Kade’s voice echoed in the silence. He handed the sword to one of the Alphas standing close by, with instructions to clean, and sharpen, the weapon.

My strength faded the instant he took my hand. Even Tilda, and Berenger could not support my dead weight. The world blurred before me as my eyes rolled back in my head.

*****

“Having her view an execution was an unwise decision!” Berenger’s voice came as a soft hiss of rage.

Cool fingers pressed against my wrist while a damp cloth came to rest on my forehead. My stomach roiled at the thought of the horror that unfolded on the steps of the Garrison. I could not open my eyes, not yet. Blood stained my hands. I knew the gods would punish me.

“I should have listened to you,” Kade muttered. “I realize that. How is she?”

“You know the risk of miscarriage is increased due to the abuse she suffered during the past month. And now this? Gods, Kade. Mia is not some Beta whore to be treated as you please.”

“I will take your medical advice where Mia is concerned. Do not think to lecture me on the proper way to treat my mate.” Kade’s voice was tinged with authoritative steel.

After today’s display, no one dared challenge him. Including me or our child.

My eyes fluttered open. I levered my upper body off the bed, only to be met by four eyes boring into my very soul. At least, it felt that way. Berenger’s eyes were filled with the compassionate gentleness he always demonstrated when caring for me. Kade’s eyes were hard, and flat. I could not decipher what lay in those stormy depths.

“If you will excuse us, Berenger, I will have a word with my wife in private.” Berenger’s brows drew together at Kade’s words. Kade’s head rotated toward the man in an oddly mechanical way. The bones of his neck cracked an instant before he spoke. “I said go.”

Berenger practically ran from the chamber, the staccato tapping of his shoes on the stone evidence of his haste. I sank into the pillows, hands clutching the blanket at my neck. Kade sat on the bed beside me. An automatic flinch came when he touched my face. Blood did not stain his hands. Gratitude bloomed at the small blessing.

“Why do you pull away?”

My lips, and hands, trembled. Mouth suddenly dry, I found it necessary to swallow several times before speaking. “You killed him. It’s my fault. Blood. I have blood on my hands.”

Kade took my hands, turning first one, then the other over. His eyes traced along every inch of skin. “I see no blood. Gabel deserved to die for what he did to you. The others know to respect, and protect you. I would have nothing less.”

“Was there not another punishment appropriate for his crimes?” My eyes searched his as I waited for the response. I knew what he would say before he spoke.

“No. Do not think to undermine my authority, Omega. The consequences will be…”

“Death? Would you kill me if I dared disobey you?” Tears filled my eyes at the thought. One spilled free, trickling down my face as the irony of it all rushed full force at me.

His hands caught my shoulders, forcing me toward him as his face came within inches of mine. Steely eyes bored into mine, pupils dilated. “You would not disobey me.” Fingers dug in deeper, forcing me to cry out. “Would you, dearest heart?”

My mind whirled, overwhelmed, disillusioned. Why was I here? What purpose did I truly serve for my Alpha, the Beast?

A gush of moisture between my thighs preceded the pain that knifed through my womb. I whimpered, hands cupping the faintly rounded contours of my belly.

Kade’s hands touched me gently, almost reverently, as confusion filled his countenance.

“Mia?”

I could not answer him. A glance at the blanket revealed my worst fears. Bright crimson stained the fabric. I pulled the blanket aside, hands delving between my thighs to confirm what I already knew. Another pain stabbed deep, followed by yet another gush of blood. Hands stained red, I lifted them to Kade.

“The gods punishment for blood on my hands. Does it fit the crime, husband?” I fell against the pillows when Kade backed away. Hysterical laughter ripped from my throat.

The intercom system brought Berenger at a run. Kade remained, standing straight, and emotionless. Berenger’s examination confirmed what I knew in my gut.

My baby was dead.

Berenger remained with me for hours until it was over. He comforted me as each harsh contraction forced a morbid preterm delivery. He thought to leave with the baby’s body hidden in a basin.

“I would see my child.” Berenger turned to face me. His ashen face said more than words could. He glanced at Kade, then back to me. “You will bury him. His name is Jasper. Please mark the grave. It’s the least I can do for him, since I have failed as his mother.”

The tiny body was the same size of a plum. The ripe purple plums that grew in abundance on Marleche. Jasper was perfectly formed. Tiny toes, and fingers. Translucent skin that revealed ribs, and darker viscera. My finger caressed my baby, communicating every emotion held within my shattered heart.

“You may take him.”

Berenger bowed his head, eyes glistening. He left the room without a word. There was no need. His eyes communicated more than words ever would.

Alone with Beast, I turned my head, unable to bear seeing him. Not once had he expressed any emotion. He climbed into bed with me after removing his boots, and armor. The need for words passed. My mind raced, determined to find a way to escape, even as Kade purred, and stroked my hair. I’m trapped with a cold, unfeeling brute for a mate.

I remained in Kade’s room for the most part in the days that followed. Tilda kept me company when Kade left the room. Berenger appeared at least once a day to assess my physical condition. I spoke only when spoken to, preferring to remain deeply buried in the safe recesses of my mind.

Weeks after that fateful day, Tilda, and I, ventured into the courtyard for a walk. Everyone who crossed our path bowed, mumbled a greeting, and hurried past us. Fear reflected in their eyes. Who could blame them?

“We should walk outside the wall, Miss.” Tilda’s encouragement to explore was accompanied by a bright grin. She bounced expectantly before her voice lowered. “I have something important to show you.”

My trust in Tilda gave me the strength to walk with her outside the wall. She led me along a path west of the wall. The path disappeared into the morass of vines, and herbage, forming an archway overhead. Beams of light fell onto the pathway. Calling birds speckled the air with their squawks, and trills. Tilda veered onto a well-worn branch of the path. She halted less than ten minutes later. An immense launchpad stood before us. Several transports rested on its surface.

“What is this place, Tilda?”

Bright blue eyes danced when she turned toward me, and spoke. “Your path to freedom.”

“I can’t operate one of those things!” I whispered, eyes searching the area for signs of guards. “We need to go before guards find us here.”

“Your Alpha is confident that this place will never be discovered by enemies. There are no guards. I have the operations manual hidden in my room. We can learn, Miss. You are no longer content here.” Tilda clutched my hand. “I will obey any command you give me. I will follow you to death’s door, and beyond. You only need to give the order.”

My decision was made in an instant. I would do anything to escape the cold, callous Beast who assumed alternate personalities as easily as the wind shifts course. “We can do it.”

“You can do anything, Miss. You’re more intelligent than they give you credit for. We should get back before your Alpha comes looking for us.”

Hope. It took root, and began to sprout, that day. Every day thereafter, we spent time alone in Tilda’s room, the only place the Beast did not visit routinely. Information on operating the transport became one with my brain. My confidence reached an adequate level two weeks after Tilda revealed her plan. I pretended to sleep the morning of our planned departure. A few items of clothing for each of us were packed in a small backpack that could be explained away as food for a picnic.

My heart rose in my throat as we made our way to the transport. As luck would have it, no guards stood on duty. Tilda, and I, ran to the transport, and entered it. Time was of the essence. I managed to bring the engines online and engage the thrusters. I cried out as the craft rose in the air. Below us, I saw the launchpad. Kade, and at least half a dozen of his Alpha guards, burst through the undergrowth.

The tendril pulsed with his attempts to soothe, and lure me into returning. Not today. I would determine the path my future took, not the Beast who did not know how to love, and comfort me, since the loss of the baby.

At least, that’s what I thought. The transport shuddered. The whine of engines straining to create enough thrust for climbing to a higher altitude, powered down. The transport’s emergency lights blinked.

Transport retrieval protocol initiated. The synthetic voice foretold my plan’s demise.

When the transport came to rest on the launch pad, the loading ramp descended with a hiss. I turned to face the first person to enter. The heavy thud of boots on the ramp signaled someone’s arrival.

Kade stood before me, alone, eyes narrowed into slits. “You thought to escape me, Mia?” His voice was tinged with fire, steel, and fury.

My knees trembled. Tilda attempted to run past me to no, doubt stand, between me, and my mate. I caught her arm. “I’ll face him on my own, Tilda. I did,” I admitted readily, chin tilted upward in a show of defiance.

“Foolish girl,” he growled. One step brought him within a foot of where I stood. He threw me over one shoulder. “I’ll have to see what I can do to correct your behavior.”

Over his shoulder, Kade issued another command. “Throw the Beta in the dungeon. I will deal with her later.”

Terror made my gut tense. What have I done, now?

Chapter 8

Kade

My Omega’s behavior in the days following the loss of our child bordered on depression. Not once did I think she would try to escape. The realization came that I failed as her mate. Instead of comforting her when she needed it most, I chose to focus on building my empire. Nevertheless, her insubordination could not continue.

Once inside our room, I tossed her on the bed. There was only one way to punish her disobedience.

“Undress.”

Mia gaped at my command. “You’re crazy if you think…”

Each piece of my armor was removed before being laid aside. I folded each piece of clothing. The combat boots landed with a thud on the floor. My mate lay fully clothed on the bed. She had the audacity to glare at me.

A fist stroked my aching cock. The movements brought a growl of feral lust. She thought to deny me? A tug of one hand at the neck of her dress ripped the offending garment free. The wisp of silk shielding her sex suffered the same fate.

“Do not think you’ll escape, again,” came the growled warning a second before my body pinned hers against the mattress.

Our mating was no tender affair. No growl rumbled in my chest to call forth slick to ease the passage of my dick. I meant to subdue her. The feral nature within me professed it was the only way to maintain control. Her wrists were pinned over her head beneath one hand. The other forced her legs apart.

The crimson haze infiltrated my vision within seconds of the first thrust. I resisted as best I could. My feral aspect controlled much of our mating. Mia cried. She whimpered. She begged. My attempts to ignore her, were futile. A growl called forth the sweet-scented slick. My mouth claimed hers. I could no more deny her pleasure than I could my own. Her body bowed beneath mine, crotch grinding against mine as she sought her pleasure. A thumb, and forefinger, aided her quest by latching onto the swollen nub. Massaging. Stroking. Milking a climax as violent as any battle.

With the knot locked in place, her body over mine as I lay in bed, my fingers found her chin. “You will not disobey me, again.”

Blown pupils consumed honeyed irises. Mia writhed against me. The contractions of her silken sheath forced ropes of thick cream from balls swollen with seed. I had not taken her in the nearly two months since the miscarriage. Berenger cautioned that failing to allow her to heal could damage her ability to conceive. It had been the only warning I needed.

I kept her there for an entire day. I mated with her when she woke or if she resisted. Any reason was good enough to dominate her, show her who owned her heart--mind, body, and soul. At the end, she was exhausted, unable to do more than sleep. The shackle clicked closed on her ankle. There would be no attempts to escape while I was gone. A guard posted at the door provided extra assurance.

It was time I visited one source of my mate’s discontent.

The Beta in the dungeon huddled in a corner. Metal against metal woke her. The hilt of a dagger carried at my side clanging against the metal bars. Bleary eyes crept open.

“Have you come to terminate me?” Her query was spoken in a voice devoid of emotion.

“Not now,” I chuckled, assuming the wide-legged stance I favored during interrogations. The guards remained at my side as I questioned her.

“What do you want?” she hissed.

“At one time, I thought you wanted to serve us loyally. And yet, I find you assisting my mate in an escape attempt. Why you would dare such a bold plan is beyond me. Was Gabel’s death not warning enough?”

Tilda walked to the front of her cage. Dirt-smeared hands encircled the steel bars. “The mate you ignored in favor of rescuing your brethren from the prison. The mate you left in the hands of a man who abused her. The mate who miscarried your heir after being traumatized by an execution carried out within feet of her. The same mate who desperately needed you in the days after the miscarriage, but who was, once again, ignored as you went about building your empire. That mate?”

“Watch your tongue, Beta, before it is cut from your venomous mouth.” Rage tinged the words. How dare she speak to me in this way? Yet, the words rang true.

I had much to learn about the proper way to treat my mate. Time in a One World prison did little to improve social, or interpersonal, skills. Instead, it fed my rage, and hunger, to destroy my captors.

“You would execute me for speaking the truth? I thought as much,” Tilda replied with her head held high.

Laughter bubbled from my throat. “You have only an inkling of the things I am capable of. Now tell me, who sent you? I’ve investigated your arrival here on Barkjour Isle. No one remembers you before Mia’s arrival.”

The Beta’s mouth remained closed at my observation. Her eyes narrowed into slits when both hands fell away from the bars. She returned to huddle in the corner.

“No heated retort? No tossing my failings as a mate into my face? I expected more of you. Perhaps you are not the worthy adversary I assumed you were.” Even my words failed to bring a response from Tilda.

I left the dungeon with more questions than answers. Something drew me to the room I shared with Mia.

Mia was asleep when I entered the room. Although her attempt to escape angered me, I could not hurt her. I could discipline her. The thought of taming the unruly streak thickened my cock with need. My little Omega would bend to my will. My fingers wound in the silken strands of hair. A fist tugged her head toward me. Her eyes opened, brows drawn together as she woke, and saw me. Teeth worried her lip.

“Did you rest well, pet?” My teeth caught her lower lip. An insistent tug forced her to cry out. “What? No welcoming words, or kisses, for your beloved mate?”

I jerked the blanket from her. A hand slid across her belly to tease the slick flesh between silken thighs. She moaned. Her eyes closed as two fingers invaded the tight heat I wanted wrapped around my cock.

“Kade,” Mia whimpered when my fingers plowed inside her. They curled to caress the bundle of nerves I knew would drive her to the brink.

“You require additional correction.” My fingers pulled away. I ignored the hiss of irritation, the writhing, whining Omega who now sought to seduce me to satisfy her needs.

“Please!” she whimpered. Both hands tugged at my arms after she knelt before me.

I caught her throat, fingers tightening until she cried out. My grip would leave bruises. My eyes fell on the claiming marks on both shoulders. I claimed her twice. She still tried to run away. The irony of it infuriated me.

“How is it that I claim you twice, and you seek to run away?”

“You did not comfort me when I needed you!” she protested. “You preferred the company of your men.”

Mia’s hand settled on the outline of my cock. Her fingers teased, and stroked, in the way I liked best. She cried out when I pulled her across my lap, face down. My hand comes to rest on the silky, curvaceous bottom. The first blow tried her. She cried out, writhing, a whine of need rising to a high pitch. Another blow followed. She cried out with each blow of my hand on her ass. It was only after more than a dozen blows painted her cheeks red that she tried to pull away.

By the time the punishment ended, Mia’s eyes were filled with tears. She refused to meet my gaze when I pulled her upright, holding her against my chest. “Tell me what you need. What will it take to keep you here where you belong?” My words were growled in hopes of encourage my mate to gush slick.

Her eyes glistened when she met my gaze. Her lower lip quivered when she spoke. “I want a child, Kade. Please. I still mourn the loss of our son. Not a night passes that I do not think of him, of the great leader he would have become.”

Fuck. Mia nearly unmanned me with her plea. For the first time since her attempted escape, I kissed her gently, a hand cupping the back of her head. She responded instinctively, tongue tracing the seam of my lips. My Omega rubbed her pussy against the ridge of my cock.

What am I to do with my Omega?

I gave her what she wanted, what she needed. Forcing her onto her hands, and knees, I slammed my aching cock into the perfect Omega pussy. It milked my cock with each stroke. We devolved into nothing more than animals instinctively mating. It was brutal, brief, and fulfilling. Fucking. Grinding. Knotting.

She rested on my chest, afterwards. Sated for the moment. Licking. Nuzzling, Nipping.

“You must never try to escape, again. I am a brutal man. One World taught me only cruelty. We must learn to accept each other as we are. The consequences of a second escape attempt will be much worse.” My voice was tinged with steel. I softened its bite by caressing her bare back, a finger tracing the length of her spine.

“Will you give me what I need?” she murmured.

“Yes, little one. I will give you a child when your next estrus begins.” A hand cupped the back of her head. She inspired some emotion in me. A strange emotion that I could not identify. I would not let it change who I was. I would remain the brutal ruler who retained control over his people. For their protection. For her protection.

“Berenger can give me an injection.” Pleading, limpid eyes traced the contours of my face. Her hand cupped my cheek.

I eased free when it became possible. Mia tumbled to the bed with a gasp. I stood, and dressed, before turning toward her. “Get dressed, pet. We should see Berenger if you want the injection.”

The walk to the medical bay took minutes. Mia clung to my hand. Color filled her cheeks as I explained to Berenger the need for yet another estrus induction. He hummed thoughtfully before insisting on examining Mia.

After nearly half an hour of poking, prodding, and laboratory analysis of Mia’s blood, and urine, Berenger shook his head. “No injection.”

“Please!” Mia wailed, instantly unsettled, nearly frantic. Her eyes flickered from Berenger, to me.

I felt the frantic need through my end of the tendril. I grasped her neck, fingers caressing silken skin, a purr vibrated in my chest. She calmed enough to listen to Berenger’s explanation.

“Mia,” Berenger interjected in the soft, soothing tone he uses with all his patients. “There is no need for an injection. You’re in the early stages of estrus. Within the next twenty-four, to forty-eight hours, you will be in full estrus.”

She smiled, a faint upturning of the corners of her lips. My heart beat faster. There was the damned emotion again, the one I could not decipher. “Come,” I barked, tugging her hand impatiently. She followed without speaking, a giggle muffled by the hand pressed over her mouth.

“A thank you would be nice,” Berenger called out as we left the medical bay.

“Perhaps later, old friend. I have a mate to attend to,” I replied.

The remainder of the day was spent in our room. Mia squirmed as she straddled my lap. Both hands came to rest on my chest. “Promise me, Kade, please!”

My errant, misbehaving Omega was nearly my undoing. A man can take only so much before his control snaps. I spanked her again, delighting in the whimpers, and cries of pleasure-pain. Her bottom glowed red beneath my hand. She would not to be denied. I ended up fucking her until she was exhausted--not that I minded. It appeared to be one of a few effective methods of disciplining her.

Mia’s estrus began two days later. She delighted in building the nest, only to beg to be rutted in its center. She took my discarded clothing from the hamper. Each piece was interwoven with great care. Once the nest was completed, I gave her what she needed--my cock. At the end of the three-day estrus, she was exhausted. I woke her briefly before leaving for an important meeting about political matters.

A drowsy, satiated Omega kissed my palm. “Kade.”

The jeweled golden collar snapped in place on her neck. Now, I could track her, regardless of where she was. Her gaze questioned the collar’s purpose. “It has a tracking device implanted. Beautiful like you, yet with a purpose.”

“I won’t run!” she cried, hands desperately fighting to remove the collar.

“And if you do, I’ll know precisely where you are.” She refused my kiss, anger lighting her eyes. “I’ll return, soon, Mia. Rest if you can. A guard will be posted at the door.”

The meeting with my top advisors was a distraction. It took every ounce of control I possessed to concentrate on their reports. Mia’s anger roared through the tendril. Between the two distractions, I found it necessary to ask more than one advisor to repeat portions of their reports. Berenger sat at my side, a grin revealing gleaming teeth. The bastard enjoyed the fact that my mate nearly exhausted me.

One of the guards pulled me aside after the meeting ended. He reported the beta secluded in the dungeon refused to eat. She could be dealt with later on. At this moment, I only wanted to retire to my room. The room where my mate would be pouting. Much later, as sleep pulled me under, I wondered why I found it so difficult to be as brutal with Mia as I was with others in my world. Perhaps one day, I would understand.

Chapter 9

Mia

Cold metal caressed my neck. A tracking collar. How dare he! Anger rose, but was quickly replaced with a voice of reason. You tried to run away. What did you think Kade would do?

I expected retribution. Although, he had not seriously injured me, the spankings meted out over the past few weeks bordered on the edge of pain melding with pleasure. Instead of protesting, I found myself aroused each time his big hand came down on my bottom. The stinging slaps made my body hum with need. Raw, aching need that only Kade could fulfill.

He returned a few hours later. I remained silent, observing him as he undressed. Dark circles marred the underside of his eyes. The rut drained an Alpha in much the same way as estrus did an Omega. He pulled me against his body, spooning against me. He nosed my neck, tongue tracing a path to my ear. Teeth tugged insistently, hot breath caressing my flesh.

“Gods, Mia, you drive me to the point of insanity,” he muttered. “You are my queen. Accept your place. Rule with me. Give me many strong sons, and beautiful daughters.”

Too tired to argue, or resist, I brought the palm of his hand to my mouth. My lips pressed gently against the callused flesh. “You frighten me at times, Kade. I ... I need you to be gentle sometimes, listen to what the pair bond tells you.”

“We will learn together, little one. You will not leave me, again,” he grumbled.

You will not leave me, again. The words were a slight variation of the same thing he had said dozens of times since my attempt to escape. Something occurred to me. Kade was insecure. My massive, brutal Alpha, feared losing me more than he feared anything. Could it be true? Thoughts swirled in my mind, muddling together when he began to purr. Liquid warmth filled my veins. A drunken sense of calm overwhelmed me.

“Does the position come with a crown?” A giggle burst free at the silly thought from my childhood. How many times did I pretend to be a princess? I only had a crown of woven flowers to place on my head when I was a child.

“If it pleases you,” Kade replied.

I turned to face him. For once, he was relaxed, jaw no longer clenched. Even his brows were not drawn together in a scowl. “You please me. I have no need of crowns, riches, or fancy titles.”

My Alpha rested his head in one hand, elbow propped on the bed. A thick finger teased my chin. “Does this mean you agree to be my queen?”

My lips met his in a tender kiss. I nuzzled his throat, and chest. Even the grief over the miscarriage had eased. “Only if you agree to be my king.”

“You shall have your crown, minx.” Kade’s fingers carded my hair. “A majestic crown with many jewels.”

“You are the only jewel I need, husband. You, and the child you promised to give me. Fresh milk, you, and a babe. I will be content.”

Kade’s laughter vibrated within his chest. “And to think, all I needed to do was bring a herd of cows here, and you would be more amenable?”

“More than cows.” Further words were interrupted by a yawn when he purred. My eyelids grew heavy.

“We both need to rest. I have learned my mate is demanding during her estrus. So many sexual demands.”

I wouldn’t have it any other way.

His purr soothed me. His arms encircled me. I fell asleep with my head cradled on Kade’s massive bicep. Perfection.

*****

I forgot to be irritated at Kade. Sleeping while wrapped in his warm embrace soothed whatever made my mood turn sour. He was kinder than I thought possible since the attempted escape. There were still the rough edges, the Alpha demands, but they no longer bothered me. Kade’s scent had changed. No longer was it tinged with Alpha aggression. I could not identify the new scent. A sense of calm pervaded my being.

The gold collar was a beautiful, intricately engraved creation set with jewels. It no longer irritated me. A strange gift from Alpha to Omega. I now treasured it regardless of its hidden purpose.

He insisted that I join him in the massive communal dining room for breakfast. A roar of conversation filled the air. Conversation stopped instantly when Kade, and I, stood at the head of the main table that ran along the length of the dining room. I identified the significance of the table. The men who were always with him, sat there. Trusted warriors, and advisors. Berenger sat at Kade’s right hand.

“Let us eat,” Kade announced. He pulled my seat from the table. He beckoned for me to sit with an elegant motion of one hand, then pushed the chair into place after I sat down.

At least two dozen Betas appeared with platters of food, and drinks. They placed platters on our table first, before returning with more platters for the remaining tables. The hum of conversation returned, softer now, interspersed with curious glances in my direction.

A pitcher of milk appeared on the table in front of my plate. Kade filled my glass. I could not help but rub my cheek against his arm. Kade kissed my forehead before resuming his conversation with Berenger.

What is wrong with me?

I hesitated with the glass of milk at my lips. The events replayed in my mind. I thought I hated Kade. The inner voice of reason interrupted the negative direction of my thoughts.

You were hurt, grieving.

I tried to escape with Tilda. Then, he imprisoned me in our room.

Kade wants to keep you safe.

Something was different. I couldn’t put my finger on it. Even my estrus was off. It only lasted three days.

I nearly dropped the glass of milk when a memory from the instruction of a village elder echoed in my head. Estrus is a short-lived event, intended only to increase the odds of pregnancy. It ends when pregnancy occurs, or after five to seven days.

When I glanced up, Berenger stared at me, a brow raised inquisitively. I smiled, raised the glass of milk, and took a drink. I ate a bit of everything, suddenly hungrier than I have ever been before.

“You honor me,” Kade rumbled in my ear, the caress of his lips against my ear bringing a shiver. “You behave as a ruler’s mate should. Thank you.”

Breath caught in my throat when his eyes met mine. My heart raced, face flushing. An emotion I was not familiar with, pulsed through Kade’s end of the tendril. The same flowed from my end of the tendril, to him.

“I should thank you, husband. The food was much appreciated.” I found his hand beneath the table, interlaced my fingers with his, and smiled.

“Gods, Mia. You’ll unman me if you continue to look at me with blown pupils, and your fuck-me smile. More than one of my men has noticed.” He glanced pointedly around the room.

My eyes scanned the crowd of men. His assertion was correct. More than one man met my gaze for the briefest time, grinned, and quickly looked away. Fear of Kade’s response no doubt tinged their response. A giggle burst free. I lowered my gaze. “My apologies, husband.”

Berenger interrupted our intimate exchange when he paused at my side. “Mia, I hope all is well?”

“Yes,” I murmured, nearly dizzy at the strength of emotion pulsating through the tendril.

“You should drop by the medical bay. I’d like to repeat the lab work. You won’t mind, will you, Kade?” Berenger’s deference to Kade was a sign of his respect.

Kade’s only response was the slight nod he gave. Berenger departed, no doubt on his way to the medical bay. Other followers stopped by the table to greet me, and pay their respects to Kade. None caught my interest until I met an Alpha who introduced himself as Kade’s general, Gorn. He was not as massive as Kade. Nevertheless, the red-headed Alpha, with a braided beard, and hair, was a striking man.

“Greetings, my queen,” he said. “It is good to see you out, and about. You have my condolences.”

The vague reference to the miscarriage brought a mist of tears to blur my vision. I murmured my thanks, looking at hands folded in my lap. The pain grew less with each passing day.

Kade conversed briefly with Gorn. Deep in thought, I missed a majority of what was said until I heard a reference to a prisoner held in the dungeon.

“...still on hunger strike,” Gorn mused. “I suppose we could have Berenger insert a nasogastric tube for feeding. Wouldn’t want the traitor dying before you’re done with her.”

Kade only laughed. He noticed that my attention shifted. An almost imperceptible signal passed between the men. Kade made a horizontal slicing motion with his hand. Gorn lifted his chin, jaw clenched. They said nothing more about the prisoner.

“You’re talking about Tilda, aren’t you?” Neither man responded to my question. Their attempt to ignore me only raised my ire. I bolted to my feet, fists clenched as I continued. “Don’t ignore me. I know who you are speaking of. It’s Tilda, isn’t it?” Silence followed my outburst. Kade’s growl came when I continued. “Is this any way to treat your queen? Both of you should be ashamed of yourselves. I am no child…”

“Mia!” Kade barked as he stood. “We will discuss this later.”

The tone of his voice struck fear where moments earlier a sense of peace, and contentment, dwelled. I lowered my gaze to the floor, fingers twisted together. As if sensing what occurred, Kade reached for my hands, enclosing them in his much larger, warmer hand. Gods! I should know to leave things alone, to defer to Kade in all things. My lower lip trembled as tears threatened. I pulled away, running somewhere, anywhere, but where Kade and Gorn stood.

My feet led me to the medical bay. Berenger sat at a desk as he flipped through the pages of a chart, unaware that I stood there. “Berenger, is now a bad time?”

He glanced up, his entire countenance warm, and inviting. With a wave of one hand, he welcomed me. “No, come in. I was just reading over your chart.” He beckoned to the empty seat by his desk.

I took a seat, remaining silent, heart pounding so hard, I feared he might see it beating in my chest. “You wanted to conduct more lab work. I’m here for that.”

Liar. You’re here because Kade was furious with you. My conscience was on point today. It would not let me slide by with anything, regardless how harmless the white lies were that I told myself, and others.

“Let’s get started then, shall we?” Berenger produced equipment necessary to draw blood. He expertly found a vein, then watched impassively as several clear vials filled with crimson liquid. “I’ll begin analysis, immediately.”

“Thank you,” I murmured, the sense of defeat from the incident with Kade making me feel reclusive in many ways.

“I can do a pregnancy test, if you’d like,” Berenger offered as he swirled vials. He walked to a piece of equipment on a counter. The top closed with a click once the tubes lay within. A flick of a switch produced a whirring sound. Who knew what type of medical magic was taking place in the sleek machine? “I should do a test. You seem a bit off today, Mia. Is everything alright?”

“Fine,” I assured him. “Let me know what the results are.”

I left without another word. The dark comfort of the room beckoned. I curled up beneath the blanket in the center of the nest. The dull thud of combat boots on stone floors grew louder. Kade returning, no doubt to see if I had behaved in his absence. The door opened. A moment of silence ensued for several seconds before the door closed. I ignored him as he approached. I continued to do so, even when he insinuated himself in the nest with me. I turned away, closed my eyes, and focused on anything other than Kade.

His hand stroked my hair, the purr beginning almost immediately. “Speak to me, beloved pet.”

“My input is not required, or desired.” My words were muffled by a pillow clutched against my chest.

“You are upset with me.” His massive body curled against mine, an arm pulling me tight against him. I squirmed away. “You must speak to me when we have misunderstandings.”

“There is no misunderstanding. I wanted to discuss something. You forbid me to continue. That tells me my opinion is neither wanted, nor required. I will not speak when we are in the presence of others.” A haughty sniff followed my declaration.

It was the wrong thing to do, I suppose.

Kade growled aggressively, big hands assuming control of my body. He forced me to face him, fingers grasping my chin while his thumb caressed my lower lip. My irritation increased. I hissed in warning. He failed to listen.

Since when has Kade ever listened to what you want? I hated my inner voice of reason.

The question inspired my pathetic attempt at wrath and revenge. I bit his thumb hard enough to draw blood. The coppery tang on my tongue assured me I did damage.

Seconds later, he sat on the edge of the bed, with me face-down across his lap. I squirmed, and yowled angrily. A smack on my behind warned me to remain still. I refused to listen to any warning. “Bastard! Let me go!”

A half dozen smacks on my behind brought more squeals of pained protest. “Stop fighting!” Kade roared. His hands closed around my arms, hauling me upright until I faced him.

The scent of Alpha fury scented the air. My nostrils flared. Eyes narrowed, I refused to back down. “You treated me like a child who did not have permission to speak. I thought we were supposed to discuss our differences, and misunderstandings? Or does that only apply to this room?”

“You will not sabotage my authority in any way. Do I make myself clear, little one?” His face hovered inches from mine. His nostrils flared, lips curled in a sneer.

“As mud. Fuck rational discussions. Fuck the pair bond. Do whatever you want with me. This is one reason why I tried to leave. That, and the fact that you have no clue how to love.” I winced internally at the profanities. It was the first time I had ever spoken those words.

Kade flinched as if struck. “You will not leave me.”

“So much for happily ever after.” My head throbbed, a dull ache settling behind my eyes. Every bit of energy drained out of me, as efficiently removed as viscera from an animal by the butcher who terminated its life. I closed my eyes, sagged against Kade, and forgot what feeling was. I only wanted to be numb.

“Mia?” Kade whispered my name. When I failed to respond, he nuzzled my neck, and ear, tugging my earlobe between sharp teeth. His hands caressed my back, and shoulders, settling on my hips before he pulled my pelvis against his. “I need you. I cannot be without you.” He sighed heavily, forehead resting against mine. “You will ignore me until I apologize.”

Cackling peals of laughter rippled from my throat. The laughter faded into an occasional giggle before I once again fell silent. “Why apologize when you meant it all?”

“Help me learn to be a good mate, a mate who understands.” His voice was a low rumble.

“Why tutor the unwilling?”

“Gods, your questions!” His fingers traced along my jaw. “I forgive you for biting me. Forgive me for spanking you, and for refusing to allow you to speak.” When I failed to respond, Kade’s lips came to rest near an ear. “Hear me, Mia. You pout as a child would when she cannot have dessert after failing to clean her plate.”

“Pouting? You call this pouting? Of all the outrageous claims I’ve heard, this is the worst!” I raised my head, glaring at him while I spoke. “You stubborn, egotistical…” My words faded when Kade gave me a boyishly charming grin.

“I am all those things, and more,” he admitted. “Thank you for speaking. I thought you might pout for the remainder of the day.”

“Kade…” I muttered his name, brows furrowed, fingers curled in his shirt. My fist pounded his chest. He laughed at my gnat-like blow before capturing the fist, and pressing a kiss to each knuckle.

“I adore you, Mia. You make me feel more alive than I have in years. I have failed you. I have been stubborn, and egotistical. I am rough, when I should be gentle. I admit that, and more. But it does not erase the fact that I adore you. You inspire a strange emotion I have yet to identify. I will never let anyone harm you. Help me learn to be a better mate, and I will allow you to speak on matters of importance on Barkjour Isle. You will help me determine the best way to run the government, to ensure people are heard, and their concerns addressed.” His lips caressed my knuckles, once again, only to be followed by a sharp nip.

Where did this boyishly charming side of Kade come from? My mind raced, trying to remember the moment it appeared. Finding no memory of it from the past, I assumed he had adopted this behavior in hopes of appeasing my frustrations. Regardless of when, and where it came from, I found it pleasing. His desire to allow me to assist with governing the island pleased me. I decide to concede, and see where this lead us.

“My apologies for biting you. I will not apologize for speaking out. I gladly accept your offer to assist you in governing the island. You owe me an apology for spanking me without good reason,” I muttered in an attempt to appear fiercer than I felt.

“I shall apologize, and kiss the area I wounded,” Kade grinned, his hand sliding beneath my skirt to caress my bottom. “Both sides. Repeatedly.”

A failed attempt at mock anger followed his offer. “You’re trying to seduce me.”

His scruff scratched my jaw when he kissed my neck. It would leave marks. “Am I succeeding?”

I found it difficult to slow my heart, or catch a deep breath, I could only respond to his question. The words came out in a squeak when Kade’s tongue traced along my collarbone. “Yes!”

“Good,” he growled, eager hands cupping my bottom. “For you have seduced me with nothing more than your eyes, and a smile.”

We settled into bed that night after eating dinner in our room. Kade seemed more relaxed than he had been in months. He held me against his body with easy confidence, and strength. Our conversation settled on his desire to become a better mate. It felt good to lie in his embrace.

“How could I let you know that you’re being a jerk without undermining your authority?” My finger trailed over the muscles of his chest.

“Tell me you have something important to discuss. I will find an appropriate place to privately discuss the matter,” Kade’s fingers carded my hair. As was his habit, he held a handful to his nose where he inhaled the scent with eyes closed.

“When will you begin making decisions on how the government will be run, and how concerns will be heard, and addressed?”

“Tomorrow we will meet with my advisors. You must attend, speak up, and be heard.” Kade lifted me easily until I lay pillowed on his body. A soft purr rumbled within his chest. My head came to rest there, ear pressed against his heart.

After several minutes of listening to the rhythmic thud of his heart, and the purr, I sighed. A happy, contented sound. It felt right to be here. I knew no harm would come to me while in Kade’s company. I lifted my head, eyes locking with his. My fingers caressed the contours of one cheek, and jawline. Something filled my end of the tendril. An emotion I could not identify--one mirrored in Kade’s heart, my heart.

“Kade?” I whispered.

“Yes, little one?”

“What is happening to us? This ... the tendril.”

“I think,” he rasped, “we are becoming more attuned to one another. There is more to this than simply syncing.”

“I’m not certain I understand what it is.” My voice was filled with a child-like wonder, and awe.

“We are falling in love, Mia.”

“Ohh!” I sighed before he stole my heart, and breath, with a kiss.

Chapter 10

Kade

Mia walked at my side with her head held high. The emerald shift she wore accentuated her curves. She looked every bit the queen I knew she was. My advisors glanced up when we walked into the council chamber. The cozy room, with a fireplace against the far wall, held a circular table surrounded by ornate chairs. Windows set high in the walls allowed light into the room.

Five men sat on the council. Mia knew only Gorn. Gorn held his position due to his extensive military knowledge, and experience. Borloff was a well-known diplomatic negotiator. Hull held favor with the Betas who lived on the island. Anteros was an Alpha who spent time with me in One World’s prison. Without his help, our rise to power was questionable. Jald, an Alpha in his thirties, was selected for the council after I learned of his extensive knowledge of finances, and economics.

“This is highly irregular.” The comment came from Borloff, an older Alpha with a shock of gray hair, and a neatly trimmed goatee, and mustache. Borloff was a man of tradition, even when tradition threatened the well-being of others. I rarely gave his opinion more than a passing thought.

“Your queen attends the advisory council meeting at her king’s behest. Do you question my authority?” Although calm, my voice held an underlying steely tone.

Borloff raised an eyebrow. He chose to shake his head while shifting in the chair. He would not look me in the eye. “Not at all. As our king, it is your duty to do as you see fit. Who am I to say otherwise?”

Gorn chuckled at Borloff’s evident unease. “It is wise to heed our queen’s word. I am glad to see you found common sense along the way to our meeting.”

The call to order came after everyone took their seat at the table. “My first order of business is to address the dwindling space in the Garrison for those who live here. Expansion into the mountain is not possible. Expansion outside the walls is possible. What do you think?”

Each man seated around the table gave their opinions. Mia sat at my side. Her folded hands came to rest on the table. She tilted her head as she listened to each person.

Gorn sat to her left. After he gave his opinion on the matter, he glanced at Mia. “And you, my queen? What are your thoughts?”

“Thank you, Gorn,” she replied with a faint smile. Gorn grinned, then inclined his chin slightly. My mate had a champion. She continued in the same even tone of voice. “First, are there any of our people who would like the chance to establish the first settlement on the island? If so, I think allowing them to select a location, not far from the Garrison, would encourage their independence, without feeling stifled by our fledgling government. A position close to the Garrison would allow my husband’s forces to defend their settlement, if the need arose.” She paused briefly, glancing at me before speaking, again. “If it pleases the king, I would ask permission to speak about the settlement’s purpose. Each settlement should have a purpose that supports not only its residents, but the Garrison. I would recommend a village focused on farming, and livestock. Our food stores are dwindling. We are not in danger of starvation, but that day could come if we are not proactive.”

Pride swelled in my chest to hear Mia’s proposition. My mate was intelligent, and savvy, in more ways than I knew. Even the advisory council members agreed with Mia’s plan. Gorn was the first to call for a vote.

“I think we should consider our queen’s proposition. We vote!” Gorn grinned, a cup filled with wine held high.

It came as no surprise when Borloff, and Hull, voted against Mia’s suggested plan. The remaining members of the council, including myself, voted for the plan. Borloff, and Hull, whispered beneath their breath as they left the council chamber. I knew to expect resistance from them. Treasonous behavior would earn them instant death at my hands.

That afternoon, Gorn, and a dozen of my men, accompanied us to an area less than a mile from the Garrison. A few dozen of my people followed. The flat, grassy field extended for miles. It bordered the mountainous terrain where the Garrison resided.

“You see here the beginnings of a settlement,” I informed them. “Your queen has suggested we launch a farming village. We need to produce more food for our growing numbers. If you are willing to undertake this task, each of you will be given property here. Raise your hands if you are willing to proceed.”

Two dozen hands rose high in the air. Breaking ground began immediately. Those who possessed skill in construction volunteered for the task of laying out the settlement. Mia insisted on visiting the site, daily. Gorn came with us with the excuse of ensuring our safety. Cottages appeared over the course of several weeks. Each of the voluntary residents received deeds to parcels of land. Each was recorded in the first deed book on Barkjour Isle. My mind turned from thoughts of punishing the Beta held in the dungeon, to the task of managing the new settlement’s construction.

Weekly council meetings brought a new fact to light. Mia was an intelligent, articulate woman, with an attention to detail. She pointed out the need for a historian to record our history. She identified the need for an official to manage records, including the transfer of property, births, deaths, and marriages. Borloff, and Hull, continually challenged any suggestion Mia made. Gorn took great pride in blocking their ineffective ploys. His laughter roared in the chambers. Mia could barely resist a similar response. I felt her mirth through the tendril. She maintained a sense of decorum, only sharing the humor with me when we retired to our room.

A final inspection of the cottages, and plots for gardens, came the first week of spring. It took nearly three months for the last nail to be set in place in the final house. Settlers took great pride in detailing their plans. The faint smell of wood smoke, and freshly baking bread, filled the air. Fireplaces kept the chill from cooler nights at bay.

Mia, and I, lingered in a settler’s home where we drank tea, and ate freshly baked bread spread with butter. We walked, hand-in-hand, along the path leading to the transport. We moved ahead of the main group, which included Gorn. He paused at each home, easily drawn into conversation with the settler who lived there.

Our footsteps on the loading ramp halted when we heard the metallic click of a weapon’s safety being released. Tilda walked toward us with a VLR in one hand. Her blue eyes burned with rage.

“You thought to keep me prisoner, forever? Your mistake,” Tilda hissed.

My hand caught Mia’s. I stepped in front of her, my thoughts immediately focused on protecting her. “Put the weapon down, Beta. You will not be harmed. You have my word.” I kept my voice low, and devoid of aggression.

“It’s a bit late for that. You wouldn’t leave well enough alone, would you? You wouldn’t stay in the prison. You wouldn’t allow Mia to leave. You never do what you’re expected to do.” She laughed while shaking her head.

Tilda’s voice stirred a memory from my past. Of a Beta who served us slop each day. Of a Beta who sold her soul to One World. Of a Beta who escaped the day I broke out of the cell.

“How did you find your way here?” I desperately needed the answer. The how. The why.

“A quarter million credits. That’s what Mia is worth to me. One World wants her at their headquarters on the mainland. I’ll be hunted down if I don’t bring her in. You know how One World is. Ah, the irony of it! Mia was stupid enough to trust me, to think I’d help her escape, and take her to Marleche,” Tilda continued. The gun’s laser traced along my leg, moving upward as Tilda raised the weapon. “I knew to get out of the prison that day. You killed everyone who crossed your path.”

Mia stepped in front of me. My gut clenched at her protective nature. She would die to defend her mate. “Don’t do this, Tilda.”

“Mia, behind me, now. Don’t trust her!” I growled.

“You should listen to your mate,” Tilda laughed, eyes narrowed into slits. “I don’t want you dead, Mia. You’re worth a fortune. One World pays handsomely rare Omegas.”

The thud of combat boots on the ground preceded Gorn’s appearance. I glanced in his direction to see his hand moving toward his weapon. The next moments moved in slow motion. One event clicked into place before the next occurred. Gorn’s weapon came up. Tilda raised her arm, the laser sight locked on my chest.

Mia ran up the ramp toward Tilda, hands outstretched. Gorn fired his weapon. Crimson spray spewed into the air. The weapon in Tilda’s hand fired as her headless body dropped on the loading ramp.

Mia turned to face me. I saw her hand pressed against one side. Crimson welled from between her fingers. I caught her as she fell, horror filling my gut. Not Mia. Not my queen.

“We need to get her to Berenger, now!” I roared.

Gorn cleared a bench in the transport as the pilot assumed control. I was frozen in place, unable to do anything other than stroke Mia’s hair, whisper reassurances, and watch as Gorn rendered first aid.

The flight took forever it seemed. Berenger waited in the courtyard when the transport landed. His grim expression said it all. “Medical bay, now.”

A group of onlookers had gathered in the courtyard. The soft murmur of whispers rippled through the crowd. A flurry of activity took place around us as we left the transport. Some of my men pushed back the crowd that formed. Others formed a barricade around us, opening doors as I ran to the medical bay.

Berenger sprang into action the instant Mia came to rest on a gurney. “Tell me what happened, Kade.” I could not speak, my eyes locked on Mia’s pale countenance, blood darkening the wad of gauze Gorn placed on the wound. “Dammit, Kade! Tell me what happened. She needs you, now. You can lose it, later.”

“Tilda shot her.” When I could finally lift my face, Berenger nodded, his eyes filled with what I suspected was empathy. It was a sign of his understanding.

“VLR, or old-school handgun?” Berenger’s attention focused on starting an intravenous line for fluids. He directed Gorn to hold pressure on the wound while he assessed Mia’s vitals. “VLR, or handgun, Kade?”

“VLR.” The words came out in a choked, jumbled mess. “Why is there so much blood?”

“Good. No bullets to worry about. It may look like a lot of blood. I can assess blood loss as I examine her. I’ll tell you what I’m doing as I do it. Don’t freak out on me. Talk to her, give her strength through your tendril. Understand, Kade?” Berenger’s voice held the quiet strength he demonstrated each time an emergency of this nature arose. I had observed him in action on numerous occasions before treating my men. He moved with a sense of purpose.

“Yes.” I could only manage a one-word response. Mia’s pale countenance disturbed me.

I can’t lose her, now.

Berenger was as good as his word. He described each action as he, and Gorn, moved into action. They rolled Mia onto one side. Latex gloved fingers probed the exit wound in her side. Mia moaned, eyes fluttering.

“Kade?” Mia whispered, her eyes searching until she saw me. One corner of her mouth curled upward. The tendril pulsed with reassurance from my mate as she tried to soothe me.

Gods! She was injured, and tried to reassure me?

“Mia, stay with me. You’ve been shot. You’re in the medical bay. The wound isn’t serious, but you’ve lost quite a bit of blood. Talk to Kade before he passes out,” Berenger encouraged when he saw Mia had regained consciousness.

“Kade, what happened?” Mia murmured. Honey eyes searched my face.

“Tilda tried to kill me. You ran between us.” My gaze locked with hers. Our fingers intertwined. “You shouldn’t have put yourself at risk, love.”

“I would die defending you, Kade.” Mia’s response came with a full smile that gave me hope she would recover from the injury. I felt her reassurance through the tendril.

“I know you would. Rest. Let Berenger care for you. I’m not leaving,” I assured her.

Berenger irrigated the wounds with an antibiotic solution. Mia’s groan brought a wave of nausea. I fought it down, intent on being the mate she needed. A wad of hemostatic gauze was taped into place on each wound. Adhesive EKG pads, and a blood pressure cuff, fed information into a machine on the wall above the gurney. A graphic visual of Mia’s vitals appeared on the screen. Berenger drew blood before moving to a counter where several machines sat.

“Tilda?” Mia whispered.

“Dead. Gorn defended us,” I replied. My lips came to rest against her forehead. “I’ll find out how she got out if it’s the last thing I do.”

“I have my suspicions,” Gorn muttered. “If I find them first, you’ll have no need of getting your hands dirty. Guards will be posted here, and at the Garrison’s entrance. It’s time to start investigating this incident. I am glad you were not seriously injured, Mia.”

Berenger appeared at Mia’s side with a clipboard holding printed results of the lab tests. “You may need a transfusion. Doubtful, but I’ll continue to monitor things. The wound has stopped bleeding, thanks to the hemostatic dressing. I don’t think there is any need for surgery. There is, however, a slight problem.”

“What problem?” Mia asked, her fingers clenching my hand.

“It appears you’re pregnant, Mia. Given the date of your last estrus, you’re about four months along. Have you felt any movement, at all?” Berenger placed the clipboard on an ultrasound machine.

“I don’t think so,” she whispered.

I watched in awe as Berenger conducted an ultrasound. He covered Mia’s hips and legs with a sheet. A blob of gel on her abdomen allowed the device held in his hand to glide across the area. After several passes, Berenger focused on one specific area. The gray-scale image of our baby appeared on the screen. The rhythmic, rapid heartbeat filled the room. My gut clenched to see movement on the screen.

“Everything looks perfectly normal,” Berenger announced. “Congratulations. I’ll keep you here overnight to ensure there are no complications.”

My thoughts race at Berenger’s words. Mia had what she wanted most in this world. Pride welled at the thought of welcoming my child into this world. I held Mia’s hand between mine. Berenger provided a chair for me to rest in. He remained in the medical bay assessing Mia’s condition throughout the evening.

Mia fell asleep later that evening. She remained pale, but her vital signs were strong, according to Berenger. Just after dawn the next day, I woke with my head on the gurney. Mia’s fingers traced the outline of my facial features. She smiled, eyes glistening.

“I think the baby just moved,” she murmured.

“Our son.”

“I’m sorry to have caused so much trouble by trusting Tilda.” She took a shuddering breath, eyes closing.

This was not the time to place the blame on Mia’s shoulders. I would not allow her to accept responsibility for Tilda’s betrayal.

“We have Tilda to thank for saving you when Gabel abused you. I should have been more dedicated to investigating her after your escape attempt. No one can remember the exact moment she arrived here. That, in and of itself, deserved further investigation. I failed you. The thought that you could have died will haunt me for some time. I should have been more zealous, followed through. Gorn will find the others involved.” I took her hand, and kissed her fingers. Before I realized it, my face was buried in her hair, a hand cupping the nearly imperceptible roundness of her belly. “If I had lost you…”

“Don’t say it,” Mia whispered. Her voice was choked with emotion. “I feel the same way, Kade. If anything were to happen to you, I would be lost. Don’t blame yourself. We can only do the best we can.”

Laughter rumbled in my chest. I nuzzled her cheek before feasting on her lips. The sigh that comes from my mate after the kiss told me she was happy, content. “Does this mean we’ve fallen in love?”

“I think it does,” she acknowledged the fact with a faint upturning of the corners of her lips. Color filled her cheeks.

“I would do anything for you, little Omega.” The statement of fact makes the pair bond hum with the solidarity of our love.

“Does that include getting me off this horrible gurney? It feels like I’ve slept on a bed of rocks.”

Berenger appeared in the doorway. “Not just yet,” he cautioned. “I want to do an exam this morning, check your vitals, and lab work. If everything looks good, I will allow you to return to your room to recuperate. Sorry to be such a party pooper.”

Once Mia received clearance to recuperate in our room, I carried her there myself, with Berenger at my heels. She grew stronger over the next few days. I hovered by her side the entire time, not once leaving her for anything other than to visit the bathroom. The pair bond solidified even further. I could sense Mia’s mood through the tendril. I could sense when she was in pain. The miraculous events were sobering.

It took nearly two weeks before Mia was strong enough to walk to the courtyard. Gorn visited our room before she took the first step.

“I wanted to let you know I found the bastards who allowed Tilda to escape,” Gorn growled. He stood with his head held high, hands behind his back. He looked every bit the fearsome warrior I know. “Just as I suspected, Borloff, and Hull, betrayed us. They await us in the courtyard for their sentencing.”

“I would be there,” Mia announced. She sat by the fireplace. Her regal appearance amplified by the black shift dress embellished with gold accents along the neckline.

“I can’t allow that.” There was no way I could allow her to attend another sentencing, and possible execution. Memories of the events following Gabel’s ill-fated death on the steps of the Garrison, haunted me. Knowing that Mia carried my child intensified the depth of concern.

Mia glanced at me when I spoke. She frowned, a fire intensifying her gaze. “Don’t sentence them to death. Ostracize them. Ship them off to one of the northern islands where conditions are much worse than here. Give them a chance to survive. Warn them they will die if they ever show their face here. They won’t, but at least give them a chance.”

I stood in front of her. Where did my Omega’s wisdom come from? Not a day passed that I don’t question that an old soul resided within her. An old soul with valuable knowledge. “Do you wish to mete out the sentencing? I will have Gorn prepare a transport. They will leave the island, immediately.”

“Yes. I want it known that any person who threatens my mate, or the people of Barkjour Island, will suffer the same fate.” Mia stood after I took her hand. She embraced me, head resting on my abdomen as I purred.

Gorn rolled his eyes in mock irritation. “Gods, if only I could find an Omega. How the hell did you get so lucky, Kade?”

“I would say I am the lucky one,” Mia murmured. “I’ve found the perfect Alpha.”

“Brainwashed her. I know that’s what you did,” Gorn grumbled. He preceded us when we left the room.

A clear, sunny sky welcomed us when we arrived in the courtyard. It was crowded with onlookers, anxious to see the fate that befell the two traitors. Berenger joined us, standing at Mia’s side when she walked toward Borloff, and Hull. One glance at their faces revealed they had received a bit of punishment already. No doubt, Gorn impressed his loyalty upon the traitors.

The hubbub of conversation halted when Mia cleared her throat. Her voice grew louder when she spoke. A wave of love filled my heart to see her standing so regally. She was proud, not haughty.

“Borloff, and Hull, conspired with a known enemy. They allowed Tilda to escape, and provided her with a weapon. She fully intended to kill your king. I was wounded in that altercation. Thankfully, the wound was not serious. Today, the conspirators learn their fate.” Mia paused, glancing over the crowd as they whispered among themselves.

All eyes focused on Mia when she spoke. “Borloff, and Hull, you have been found guilty of your crimes. You will be removed from this island in a transport to an undisclosed northern island. You will receive nothing, but the clothes on your back. If you show your face here, again, you will be executed. All citizens have kill-on-sight orders starting the second the transport leaves the launch pad.” Mia’s sentencing received a roar of approval from the crowd gathered in the courtyard. Each person in the crowd thrust a fist into the air high above their heads. The people came together for their queen.

She insisted on traveling along with us. I refused to allow her to go alone. The risk was too great. The journey ended on a mostly frozen island in the far north of the Atlantic. It provided the basic resources for survival: food, water, and trees for shelter, and fire. Gorn’s men escorted us to the transport. A group of citizens followed on their heels. I did not object to the gawkers. Everyone who lived on the island should know their queen would be swift and certain in the dispensation of justice. Word of mouth would deliver the news to the others.

Guards shackled the prisoners against the cargo area of the transport. Gags kept the men silent. I had no desire to hear their cries for leniency. Mia sat at my side. She came willingly into my embrace.

Gorn grinned when he assumed a position in front of the men, a VLR held in his hand. Although he appeared relaxed, a finger on the weapon’s trigger twitched every few seconds. “I have it on auto and the safety is off. My trigger finger is itchy, gentlemen. Give me a reason to blow you both to hell and back.”

The transport landed with a thunk on the icy tundra. The loading ramp lowered with a whine of hydraulics. A blast of icy air chilled everyone in the passenger compartment. Looking out at the frozen tundra, I saw why the traitors were reluctant to depart. A thick layer of snow covered the ground. Swirls of white rose aloft in icy whirlwinds spurred by the biting wind. Tufts of dead, brown grass dotted the landscape. A grove of skeletal trees mixed with a few pine trees broke the monotonous plains. Not a single sign of life presented itself. There was only the snow and ice and frigid wind.

Gorn shoved the traitors to the end of the ramp. The men dissolved into simpering, wailing men when they saw their fate.

“Please, forgive me!” Borloff wailed. Tears trailed down his face. A solitary strand of mucus dripped from one nostril. His lack of backbone disgusted me.

Hull collapsed on the ground. His face was as pale as the icy ground where he sat. He did not speak. Perhaps he knew none of us cared to hear anything he had to say.

Mia buttoned the maroon pea coat she wore before walking down the ramp. She produced a pistol from one pocket. I tensed, uncertain where this would take us. Gorn moved into position, VLR raised. He was prepared to take both of the men out if they made a threatening move.

“I thought you both would appreciate a choice of sorts,” Mia announced as she handed the gun to Borloff. He stared at her with red-rimmed eyes, mouth agape. “There are two bullets in that gun.”

Realization of the opportunity at hand brought a grin to Borloff’s face. I could not let this go further. “Mia, step away from them. If you make a move, Borloff, I will rip your head from your body.”

“Let me finish, love,” Mia replied with a smile in my direction. The wind whipped her hair into a raven banner. She appeared unconcerned of the potential danger presented by a gun in Borloff’s hands. “You have two bullets. Use them wisely. You could kill two of us. Me, your king, or his sworn right hand. But that leaves two pilots who are members of Barkjour’s military force. Or you could save the bullets to kill an animal for food.”

“You bitch,” Borloff muttered. His shoulders slumped as the irony of the situation presented itself.

“Let me finish, traitor.” Mia’s voice assumed an icy tone when she spoke directly to Borloff. “If you use the bullets wisely, you can create fire. Fire will extend your time here. You may survive by doing that. Or,” she laughed, “You could use the bullets on Hull, and yourself. End your misery before it ever really begins.”

Borloff raised the gun. Gorn moved closer, his VLR laser sight trained on Borloff’s head. “Give me a reason,” Gorn growled.

None of us were prepared for what came next. The sound of a single gunshot broke the silence. Borloff fell to the icy ground, blood steaming as it pooled around his head. Lifeless eyes stared into the snowy sky.

“I thought as much. You have one bullet remaining, Hull. Use it wisely,” Mia remarked. She gave Hull one last glance before walking up the ramp into the transport. To me she murmured, “His fate was determined the instant he thought to betray us.”

The loading ramp whined into place. Our view of Hull, huddled on the ground staring at Borloff’s body, disappeared in the distance. Mia remained silent for most of the return journey. I took her hand, waiting patiently until she spoke.

“I’m fine,” she murmured. Her fingers tightened around mine. “I don’t regret giving him that gun. I want to learn how to use a gun, how to fight. It’s time I learn how to defend my husband, my unborn child, and our people. Will you teach me, Kade?”

“I will, little one.” I pulled her onto my lap, unwilling to be without the sweet scent of my Omega a second longer. She melted into my embrace. Perfection.

Gorn refused to allow us a moment of silence. His laughter was a roar of mirth unleashed on the passenger compartment of the transport. “By the gods, Kade, you’ve got a fighter for a queen. Teach her how to defend what is hers, and she’ll be the perfect badass to rule by your side.”

Badass, Mia. I adored the sound of that title.

Chapter 11

Mia

I knew the sentence fit the crime committed. Borloff was a weak man, one that would lead Kade’s empire to destruction if allowed to continue with his agenda of treason, and subterfuge. Hull was just as weak, yet too dense to understand the consequences of his actions.

Kade hovered almost constantly after we returned to Barkjour. Gorn disappeared with some muttered excuse. I understood that he did not want to linger in my presence in the event things went horribly wrong, as they had after Gabel’s execution.

I insisted on eating dinner in the dining hall with those who joined us routinely. The room grew quiet when Kade, and I, entered. Servers immediately brought food to the tables. Wine, and ale, flowed freely. Gorn sat to my left. Berenger sat on Kade’s right side. My king’s hands rotated position occasionally. I wondered at times if it served as a game of cat-and-mouse for those gathered in the hall. Perhaps they sought to keep everyone guessing. I realized men, especially Alphas, were more complicated than anyone could know.

The baby’s first insistent kicks came during the first course consisting of a light cream of celery soup, and salad. I caught my breath, both hands going to cup my belly. Tears of joy filled my eyes.

“Mia?” Kade’s concern came almost immediately. A furrowed brow, and clenched jaw, indicated as much.

I caught his hand, guiding it to the place where the baby stirred, yet again. His grin lit the room. “Our son is strong.”

Our attention returned to the meal at hand. I scanned the faces of those present. They were quieter than usual, whispered conversations taking place across the room. I knew the direction of their thoughts. It was time to end rumors, and conjecture.

I stood, the melodic sound of a knife against the side of my glass catching their attention. The room grew silent. They were curious yet afraid to question us. The people deserved to know the fate of the traitors.

“Mia, what are you doing?” Kade whispered.

“I’m addressing our people, at least those who are here,” I replied in a voice intended only for Kade’s ears. Drawing my shoulders back, I turned my attention once again to those dining with us. “Some of you may wonder what took place after we delivered Borloff, and Hull, to the selected island. I will tell you, so that the stories told will be truthful, and not filled with conjecture or rumor. Know the same fate awaits anyone who betrays your king, and queen, or the people of this island.”

“Is it best to do this, now?” Kade growled.

I took my mate’s hand, fingers tightening in hopes of silencing him for a few minutes. I continued without looking at him. “Not wanting to be seen as cruel, and heartless, I provided the men with a gun, and bullets. Surely seeing they had the means for hunting could be seen as a compassionate measure. Borloff turned the gun on himself. He now lies dead on the frozen tundra of an island to the north. Hull has the weapon at his disposal. We can only hope the gods will give him strength to survive there. When you speak of this day, speak only the truth. Let all know that betrayal will not be tolerated here.”

Everyone in the room stood up. Gorn was the first to lead the chant, paired with stamping feet that filled the dining hall with a people’s voice spoken in unison. “Hail to the queen! Hail to the king!”

I spoke after the chant died. “Hail to the people of Barkjour Isle. May you know peace, and prosperity.”

Kade sat silently when I resumed my seat. His thick fingers drummed on the tabletop. “You took a great risk.” Hooded eyes hid his emotions.

“The people deserve to know what happened out there today. The truth will help keep the history of the event accurate,” I replied. I knew this for certainty. Failure to record the history of our people led to Alphas, and Omegas, who did not understand estrus, rut, or the importance of the pair bond.

“Only you, Mia,” Kade grumbled.

Berenger, and Gorn, laughed at the same instant. “You have a wildcat on your hands, Kade,” Gorn explained with a shrug. “The gods have a wicked sense of humor. One of the fiercest warriors I know, finds a mate who is equally fierce in other ways.”

“I can’t wait to see what labor is like. I almost bet there will be Omega on Alpha violence at some point,” Berenger chortled, a fist pounding on the table. He offered an option upon seeing Kade’s irritated expression. “I think birthing classes will be a necessity.”

The men left the table to mingle with others who had finished their meals. The good-natured tone of the conversations taking place in the hall were vastly different from those that took place not long ago. It felt good to see our kingdom settling down, becoming a cohesive unit.

I stood up with the intention of joining Berenger, and Gorn. Kade caught my arm. A second later, I landed in his lap. An inferno of emotion was revealed in his eyes. He caught my chin with one hand. He claimed my lips unapologetically, fiercely devouring as he left no doubt of his intentions for later.

When I could finally break free, I gasped, “What was that for?”

“For being the perfect mate, and queen. Barkjour Isle is fortunate to have you, Mia. You are not only a role model for my people, you are a savvy woman determined to do what is best for the people.” Kade’s admission brought my grin. He kissed my forehead tenderly before helping me stand.

We mingled with those in the dining hall. I made a point of talking with each person for a few minutes. I realized this was a sensitive juncture. Those who supported us should be made to feel appreciated. Those thoughts lingered in my mind over the next few days.

The next council meeting took place a week after Borloff, and Hull, were sentenced. Their absence from the council presented a problem. The room was filled with tension--almost palpable, and unnerving. Within minutes of the meeting being called to order, bickering began over who should assume the empty council seats.

Jald, and Anteros, the youngest members of the council, shouted at each other across the table. I winced when Kade slammed a fist on the table. “Enough!” he roared. “Members of the council do not behave in this manner!”

A few moments passed as Jald, and Anteros, glared at one another. Kade remained standing, serving, no doubt, as a visual message that additional outbursts will not be tolerated. I hesitated, but gathered my courage.

“If I could speak, gentlemen?”

“Absolutely,” Gorn offered with a pointed glance at Jald, and Anteros.

“Why not allow the people to elect who will serve as members of the council? If we allow that, then everyone can rest assured their concerns are heard on the council.” I stood when Jald snickered behind a hand. A withering glance in his direction preceded my words. “And you could do better, I suppose? After that outburst earlier, I feel the need to behave as a mother would. You need to be spanked for misbehaving.”

Jald’s snicker evaporated at my words. He sank down in the chair, eyes lowered.

“Mia has a valid point,” Kade explained. “Perhaps we could look at the democratic model used by what once was the United States. Why not allow each settlement to have an elected representative to serve on the council? I would ask that we adopt a decree where the king, and queen, are mandatory council members. Others, such as the leader of the military, and other important governmental divisions, could fill the remaining seats on the council.”

Silence followed Kade’s explanation. Jald tapped a finger against the bridge of his nose while Anteros hummed thoughtfully. Gorn broke the silence.

“We should have a vote on Kade, and Mia’s, plan. I vote yes,” Gorn said while raising his cup.

I gasped when the others voted for the motion. Kade, and I, cast our votes in favor of the motion. A unanimous decision. Something unheard of with the council.

“All we need now is to determine how an election will take place,” Gorn groused. He drained his cup then immediately refilled it. I understood his distress. Council meetings could make the most devout person want to drink. “Gods! What if it turns into a fiasco like the election in the United States where one person won the popular vote, and the other won the electoral college votes?”

“We accept only the popular vote,” I mused. “It’s the only way to ensure the people’s voices are heard, and respected. Anything other than that could lead to strife, something we must avoid, at all costs.”

After nearly two hours of discussions, the remaining council members developed a plan to hold elections for the empty council seats. A dull ache throbbed in my temples. My attention drifted from matters at hand, to the headache. I wanted only to retire to the cool darkness of our room, and rest for a few hours.

As if sensing my needs, Kade called a halt to further discussions. “We can continue this tomorrow, if needed,” he advised the council. He escorted me from the council chamber without another word.

When we returned to our room, Kade pulled back the blanket, watching as I changed into a thinner, more comfortable gown. His hands cupped my belly, lips coming to rest on my forehead. “You should rest.”

“Will you stay with me?”

“Of course.” Kade’s massive body cradled me. His purr lulled me to sleep.

We woke around noon, just in time for a messenger to arrive at our door, announcing that an emissary from Jade Island had arrived with important news regarding One World. Kade, and I, ventured to the entryway of the Garrison, where a strange, white-haired Beta, with piercing blue eyes, stood.

“My name is Joseph. I am an emissary sent on behalf of a group of Alphas, and Omegas, on Jade Island,” Joseph said when he saw us. He bowed before continuing. “The group I represent wishes to notify other groups of Alphas, and Omegas, that One World has been destroyed.”

“Destroyed?” Kade chortled. “I highly doubt that. Where is your proof?”

“If you will allow me to use a COMM unit, I have a digital recording with all the information you will need. I also have a history book written by Hailey Michaels, an Omega who wants to preserve our history.”

Kade snorted derisively, but led Joseph to his private study. “Please, show us the evidence of One World’s destruction.”

“I understand this may be difficult for you to process. It is our understanding that you, and many of your brethren on Barkjour, were held in One World prisons.” Joseph turned toward the COMM unit’s screen after the digital recording was inserted in the appropriate slot.

The screen sprang to life. A massive Alpha with dark hair, and eyes, stood in front of a large bank of COMM units. He spoke seconds after the recording started.

“Greetings. My name is Baron Michaels. I bring the joyous news that One World has been destroyed. I assembled a group of like-minded Alphas who willingly explored two One World prisons on the mainland. The information gleaned from their exploration, paired with intelligence obtained from a dying comrade, gave us the edge we needed. We were able to prepare a biological weapon from a sample of Beta Hemorrhagic Syndrome. That weapon was delivered to One World’s command center in what once was the United States capitol. I realize you may not believe us. Video evidence of a secondary mission, revealing One World’s sensitivity to the biological weapon, follows.”

The video flickered briefly as the first segment ended. Almost immediately, a segment showing bodies lying in the decaying streets of a once great city, filled the COMM monitor. The video continued for nearly half an hour as members of the reconnaissance team explored the streets leading to the command center, and the command center itself. Hundreds of bodies clad in One World’s gray jumpsuits lay in pools of blood.

My eyes flicked from the COMM monitor, to Kade. His eyes widened when the destruction of the virus became apparent. He collapsed in a chair before raising a shaky hand to his forehead.

“It’s impossible,” Kade muttered. “Isn’t it?”

“The secondary mission was quite thorough. Our operatives explored any buildings linked with One World’s headquarters. We learned there was an extensive network of underground tunnels, and rooms. There is no cure for Beta Hemorrhagic Syndrome,” Joseph replied.

“Thank you for bringing the news,” I interjected. “You said something about a history book?”

“Ah, of course! My apologies for not giving this to you as soon as I arrived.” Joseph opened a briefcase. He handed the book to me. “A great deal of effort went into dissecting the history of Alphas, and Omegas. Evan Quinn found additional information when he journeyed to the mainland. A man named Luca Walker was the first undifferentiated Alpha. It is suspected his wife, Nyssa, was the first undifferentiated Omega. Everything is contained in the book. Mr. Michaels spared no expense in assisting his wife, and Mr. Quinn, to conduct research, write, and publish the book.”

Kade remained silent. He stood after several minutes, walked to a miniature bar near a window, and poured a shot of whiskey. Not once had I observed him drinking alcohol. He swallowed the amber liquid, and poured another drink without pausing.

“You realize how difficult this is for me to process?” Kade finally admitted. “The bogeyman, the thing that goes bump in the night, has finally been destroyed. They took me from my parents, but not before they murdered them. So many of us were held there. Omegas were murdered by feral Alphas. Innocent blood is on my hands, Joseph. I’m not certain I deserve this gift.”

Kade’s admission made my gut clench. There was never a discussion of the horror that took place in the prison. He avoided the topic, at all costs. I could never imagine what he experienced at One World’s hands. I moved behind the chair, my hands resting on his massive shoulders. He caught one hand, turned his head, and kissed my knuckles.

“Mr. Michaels’s wife, Hailey, along with a group of Omegas, were taken hostage a few years ago by One World. They somehow managed to build a prison on Jade Island, fill it with feral Alphas, and begin their breeding program there.” Joseph tilted his head, eyes wavering between Kade, and me, as he spoke. “Hailey was pregnant at the time. Thankfully, she, and the baby, survived. You can understand why Mr. Michaels was determined to route the evil from this world.”

“Thank you,” Kade murmured. “Pass our thanks on to Mr. Michaels. Perhaps we can travel to Jade Island for a visit one day. Mia is pregnant, or we would visit now.”

“I understand,” Joseph chuckled. “One thing I have learned is that Alphas are even more protective of their mates during pregnancy. I wish you both the best.”

Kade, and I, walked with Joseph to his transport where it sat on a landing pad not far from the Garrison. “Please visit any time you would like,” I offered before Joseph entered the transport. “We will count you, and your friends on Jade Island, among our allies.”

“That was our hope,” Joseph replied. “We must unite to protect the world from evil. One World was evil. Given that history repeats itself, we must prepare to defend ourselves against the next threat, when it rises.”

The strange bow followed by Joseph’s hand held aloft, palm facing out toward us, was his farewell. We watched as the transport rose in the air before we returned to the Garrison.

Kade disappeared after Joseph’s departure. I could locate him within the Garrison. I ventured to his study, only to find the door locked. I knocked but heard no response. A tiny tendril of worry gnawed at my gut throughout the day. The next few weeks passed in much the same way. My mate pulled away from me. He rarely joined me in bed at night. When I questioned him, he brushed it away as concern that he might injure the baby in his sleep.

One night, when Kade joined me as I readied myself for bed, I sensed that something was horribly wrong. I could not discern the problem, but something was off. That night, I lay in Kade’s arms, my head nestled on his broad chest. Turmoil was communicated through the tendril. I worried that he blamed himself for the deaths of Omegas in One World’s prison. A finger traced the outline of his lips before I spoke.

“You’ve been quiet since Joseph’s appearance.” I waited for Kade’s response, the tendril of worry growing exponentially. A wave of nausea came unbidden. The tendril writhed with something I could not decipher.

“You miss nothing,” he grumbled with a huff.

“I don’t place any blame upon you for the deaths of the Omegas. The horrific nature of the situation…”

He cut me off mid-sentence. His voice was cold, tinged with steel. This was the Kade I once knew, not the man I now knew. “I could not fight the need to rut. None of us in a cell with an Omega in estrus could. We killed them. Nothing can change that.”

“No! I trust you.” Tear-filled eyes blurred my Alpha’s tormented expression.

His determination to convince me he was an unfit mate continued. Words painted a picture of past horrors. “Their screams echo in my mind at night. No one can erase that. Innocent blood is on my hands, Mia. I think of how I claimed you. Of how I forced you to watch Gabel’s execution. Gods! Can you not see that I cannot be trusted?”

His chest heaved. Eyes narrowed. Lips compressed in a thin line. His fingers curled and stretched. Kade’s distress would be evident to anyone who saw his behavior.

His pain was my pain. I could not stand to see him suffer. An Omega’s instinct to soothe pushed its way to the forefront. “You are a changed man, Kade. Please, don’t torment yourself with the past.”

He stood up before prowling to the narrow window. He stood there staring out at the night sky. Every inch of his body held a tension that foretold of an imminent storm. But what storm? What was Kade hiding from me? “It is my past. How can I trust myself to treat you, or our child, well?” He stood without moving, eyes glued on whatever he could see out the window.

His words horrified me. I sat up, a cold chill filling my heart, the tendril vibrating with tension. “What are you saying?”

“I can’t take the chance that I might harm you, Mia. What if my feral nature takes over, yet again?” He scrubbed his face with a hand, jaw clenched. He refused to look at me. I could feel him withdrawing until his end of the tendril went silent.

“It won’t take over!” I shouted. I scrambled from the bed, trembling with fear. It was then that I noticed a suitcase sitting in the closet.

Heart in my throat, I ventured inside. The suitcase opened with a click. Tears stung the backs of my eyelids when I saw my clothing in the suitcase. Each piece had been neatly folded before being placed with care inside. A mesh compartment held an assortment of toiletries. He wanted me to leave. He no longer wanted me. Gods! I should have seen this coming.

The suitcase clicked closed. I carried it in one hand, stopping only to shove my feet into a pair of sandals. Kade turned when I walked to the door.

“Where are you going, Mia?”

Laughter nearly erupted at his words. His voice was tinged with concern. Why be concerned now when the mate you want gone is leaving? Instead, I said the words I knew he wanted to hear. “You want me to go. My suitcase is already packed. After everything…”

“This can wait until tomorrow,” he muttered, eyes gazing anywhere, but at me.

“It’s true, then. You want me to leave?” I turned to face the door, a hand holding the doorknob that felt like ice. “I’ll give you the space you need. I realize I am no longer the slender, svelte Omega who can easily satisfy your needs. There are others, I’m certain, that can give you what you want.”

Kade did not speak when the door opened. I slammed it behind me. Standing in the hall for a moment gave me time to collect myself. There was no need to waste time trying to convince him of anything. Kade would believe what he wished to believe in much the same way that he did what he always wanted to do.

Berenger was awake when I dropped by the medical bay. He glanced up when I walked in.

“Mia. I didn’t expect to see you this late at night,” he said. “Have a seat.”

“I don’t have a lot of time, Berenger. I need to go to the settlement. There’s an empty cottage there if I’m not mistaken. Will you take me?” My voice trembled as I spoke. It took every bit of strength to hold back the tsunami of tears waiting to spill.

Berenger leapt to his feet. His eyes flashed. Both hands curled into fists as he spoke. “What the hell is going on? Surely Kade isn’t sending you away.”

“I’m too tired to talk about this any further. Take me to the settlement. I’ll decide what I want to do tomorrow.”

Berenger did not argue with me. He commandeered a transport for the trip to the settlement. We remained silent, even after he ensured to equip the cottage with everything I needed. He visited the settlement’s leader to inform him I would be staying in the village.

“Call me if you need anything, Mia. I worry that you might deliver early. The baby is larger than normal.” He handed me a mini-COMM unit that resembled a watch in many ways. “That is programmed to access my COMM unit in the medical bay. Day, or night, you call for me. If you experience contractions, bleeding, or anything that’s off.”

“Thank you, Berenger. I’ll keep it with me, at all times.” The strap fit around my wrist. Berenger fastened it before our conversation continued.

“I don’t know what the hell is going on, but I intend on finding out,” he muttered. “Kade tends to get screwed up in the head a few times a year. It doesn’t last long. Be patient with him.”

My friend offered a hug. I accepted, desperate to feel that someone accepted and cared for me. At least I knew Berenger genuinely cared. “I owe him nothing. Goodnight, Berenger.”

The closing door released the floodgate of emotion. I collapsed on the floor where I huddled the remainder of the night. Near dawn, I fell into a restless, uneasy sleep, tormented with thoughts of why I was not enough for Kade to fight harder.

*****

I managed to find my niche in the village community within a few weeks. The residents accepted me without question. They treated me with respect. A few came calling to invite me to dinner with their families. A few of the older women in the village took me under their wing. We spent many enjoyable hours drinking tea while they taught me to knit and sew.

This morning’s walk was never intended for social interaction. I used it to escape the horrible dreams that kept me awake last night. But as they often did, a villager intercepted me.

“It’s an honor to have our queen live among us.” The old woman’s comment brought my head up. She gazed at me with kind blue eyes.

“I’m no longer your queen.” The admission brought a rift of pain. I pushed it away, my hand going to the ever-burgeoning belly where a series of kicks leaves me breathless. The ache in my lower back intensified. I rubbed the area with one hand, to no avail. I could breathe easier after the baby dropped lower in the womb. But, then again, the urgency to empty my bladder worsened. Tit for tat.

“You’ll always be the people’s queen,” she assured me.

“Thank you. I must go. I’m expecting a visitor.” Any excuse was better than none to end a conversation reminding me of what I once was, where I once lived with the love of my life. The old woman waved as I walked away.

The twinge of a false contraction nearly brought me up short as I began walking. Berenger’s last exam included an overview of things to expect in the last weeks of pregnancy. My ankles have started to swell. Many days, it was impossible to wear more than a pair of sandals. Walking barefooted was the easiest for me. I found it difficult to remain in one position for long periods of time. I was off balance, belly huge with Kade’s offspring.

A month passed since the night Kade took it upon himself to crush my heart. The tendril remained silent that entire time. I had accepted my place in the settlement, as much as the people had accepted me. It would be a good place to raise my son.

I waddled along the path toward the cottage I called home. The man who conducted the marriage ceremony all those months ago stood on the porch. He turned when I called out. I could see that he carried the ledger beneath one arm.

“Thank you for coming on such short notice. Would you like to come in? I can make tea.”

“I would enjoy that. My name is Herald. We were never properly introduced,” he murmured.

The tea kettle didn’t take long to whistle. I carried a tray with two cups of tea, and some cookies, into the living room. Herald sipped the tea before taking a cookie. This was a difficult moment for him. I could see it reflected in his eyes.

“I hope you don’t mind coming here. I realize these matters should be handled at the Garrison, or in your office. Were you ever assigned to an office?” The mug’s warmth eased the tension in my fingers. Not once since coming to Barkjour did I think I would find myself alone a few weeks from giving birth.

“No office, yet,” Herald sighed, then continued. “I must admit, I hoped our people could avoid the casual regard for marriage our ancestors exhibited. Not that I’m saying this situation is casual in any way.” He coughed, tugged the collar of his shirt with a finger, and smiled faintly. It was little more than a lifting of the corners of his mouth that disappeared a second later.

“Your king has made it apparent he no longer wants me as his wife. I will not be entangled with someone who abhors my presence. I would like to get this over with.” The words came out much easier than I expected them to. I had rehearsed this moment for days in front of a mirror. Each and every time before now I had dissolved into tears.

Herald opened the ledger to the first page. My eyes misted over to see our declaration of marriage.

“Write your intent to dissolve the marriage, sign, and date. I will present this to our king as soon as I return to the Garrison. It takes both parties, agreeing. An official decree will be entered. Your marriage will end when I sign the decree, and enter it in the ledger of divorces.” Herald stood up, took a sip of tea, and grimaced.

“What’s wrong?”

“I fear this will not end well,” he admitted.

Herald stood there, shifting his weight from one foot, to the other, as if I would change my mind. His nervousness was evident. I would not change my mind, not after all this time.

“Divorce, and marriage, are a part of Barkjour’s charter. The people wanted it this way,” I assured him. “It is your duty to follow through.” I escorted Herald to the door. My assurances seemed to fall on deaf ears. He frowned, and bowed, before leaving.

I settled into a rocking chair to crochet a blanket for the baby. Another twinge tightened my belly. It faded, allowing my thoughts to move on to the task at hand. One of the settlement’s Betas, with a talent for hand-crafted goods, taught me how to crochet. She gave me a handwritten pattern for the blanket. An odd desperation to ready things for the baby’s arrival began to grow over the past few days. My urge to build nests incessantly, especially at night, has grown, as well. Working on the blanket eases those urges.

Less than an hour passed after Herald’s departure when a faint bellowing roar echoed in the distance. A group of people ran past the cottage toward the direction of the sound. The roar came again, much closer, now. The group of people who ran toward the noise, now ran past the cottage—away from the noise.

The tendril sprang to life at that instant. Kade’s rage, and fear, pulsed through the tendril. The floors, and walls of the cottage, vibrated with the pounding of heavy footsteps that drew closer. The roar came, again. This time, it was less than fifty feet from the cottage.

“Where is she?” Kade shouted.

He was here. Gods help me, he was furious. I fought back the terror. No. He would not make demands of me after pushing me away with no warning.

The first pounding blow on the door rattled the windows. I chose to ignore it. Moments later, a half dozen more blows landed on the door. I folded the blanket before tucking it into the basket by the rocking chair.

“Open the door, Mia!” I did not need to see Kade to know he was furious. I knew that much from the tone of his voice.

Faltering steps carried me to the door. My hand came to rest on its smooth wooden surface.

“I don’t owe you anything.” The calm in my voice was in stark contrast to the swirling cauldron of emotions in my heart.

“Open the door,” he growled. “We need to talk, now.”

The demand meant nothing to me. At one time, I would have conceded anything to Kade. But now? I would give him nothing. The heart that once adored him shriveled and died over the past weeks.

“The time for talking was a month ago when you sent me away with a coward’s excuse for an explanation.” My voice trembled with emotion. The truth did little to calm me.

The door trembled as another blow landed on its exterior. “You send Herald to deliver your message? Is that not a coward’s ploy?”

How dare he? He dared speak of my cowardice yet denied his own?

“You sent me away. You have made no attempt to contact me, your supposed beloved mate, within months of giving birth. Once again, you failed me. I will not be foolish enough to accept a liar’s word, again. I want a divorce. I will find a mate who truly cares for me.”

Kade roared at the same instant as a flurry of blows on the door. “You are my mate. My wife. Mother of my unborn son. I will destroy anyone who dares touch you!”

Everyone has a breaking point. I had reached mine. The suddenly opened door made Kade step back. We faced off like predators fighting over prey.

The sudden kick from the child in my womb brought a gasp. It was as if the child knew his father stood just outside the door. Any other person would have shuddered to face Kade in this way. The savage warlord king of Barkjour Isle stood before me, in all his fearsome glory. Thoughts of who I faced failed to suppress my words.

“Don’t pretend to care. You gave up the right to have an opinion about anything I do when you pulled away, refused to discuss the problem, and let me walk away. You were the one who begged me to help you learn how to be a better mate. You should be pleased I failed so miserably. You now have your freedom from a mate you cannot stand to hold, or comfort in her time of need.” I turned with the intention of entering the cottage only to feel Kade’s hand on my shoulder.

“I’m sorry for hurting you, Mia.” He moved closer, the heat of his body searing mine. “Don’t give up on me.”

Why should I bother? Kade gave up on us weeks ago. I bit back the sob that threatened. Tears filled my eyes, without warning. A hand went automatically to the ache in my lower back that grew worse with standing.

“You are upset.” Kade’s breath caressed my face as his face moved closer. “Let me come in, Mia. I only wish to help.”

“The time for helping was weeks ago, Kade.” My resolve evaporated slowly but surely. Another twinge tightened across my belly. The contraction failed to concern me.

Just the other day I called Berenger after false labor continued for over an hour. He assured me this was a normal part of pregnancy.

“I’ve had to prepare for the baby’s birth on my own. You’ve been off doing whatever it is that kings do. No doubt, you have a harem of willing Betas to service your needs.” Bitterness tinged my response.

His fingers bit into my shoulder. None too gently, he forced me to turn, and face him. The heat, and anger reflected in his eyes, told me all I needed to know. “There has been no one since you left. There will be no one other than you.”

Kade took a step closer. I backed up in response. He took another step, as did I. To my horror, I realized my mistake. The door closed behind Kade. He leaned against it, a lazy grin spreading across his face. He bobbed his head toward the rocking chair, and basket containing the blanket.

“You are making things for our son. It pleases me to see this.” The boyish grin that weakened my resolve all those months ago appeared once again on his face. Kade knew exactly what he was doing.

“Why are you doing this? First you say you can’t be around me because you fear you’ll hurt me. Then, you come here, and open those old wounds. That hurts more than you will ever know, Kade. You don’t want me.” My voice rose to a shriek. My hands gesticulated wildly as I spoke.

“I am no longer afraid I will hurt you, or our child,” he announced. “It has taken this long for me to realize I can suppress my feral nature.”

Silence, and petitions for divorce, were the only things that seemed to get Kade’s attention. The petition for divorce brought him here. My heart hovered on the brink of asking him to take me with him to the Garrison. My brain demanded I follow through with the divorce. A realization came that Kade would never give me a divorce. I was trapped.

Instead of standing there arguing, or allowing him to see me cry, I walked into the kitchen. Kade followed as I knew he would. I filled the teapot, and set about the task of making tea. My hands trembled as I waited for the pot to whistle. Another twinge forced me to catch my breath. The silence did its job. It forced Kade to speak.

“You know I will never sign a decree of divorce. You are my mate. You must return to the Garrison with me.”

“I will stay here where I am welcome.” Steam swirled in the air moments before the pot whistled. I took it from the stove, poured water into two mugs, and handed Kade a mug.

His fingers tightened imperceptibly around the steaming cup. “You wish me to court you, to prove my intentions are honorable?”

I nearly laughed at the somber expression reflected on Kade’s face. Memories of the emotional pain, and self-doubt I had experienced since that night reared their heads. It reminded me why this moment contained zero humor.

“I wish you would drink your tea, stop talking, and then leave me alone.” I needed silence more than ever before. Kade was determined that I hear him.

“I will never leave you alone, Mia. You are my mate. I love you. I made a horrible mistake. Forgive me.”

I watched his lips moved as he spoke. Another strong contraction took my breath. I found it difficult to concentrate on Kade. My fingers gripped the table’s edge. Slow, focused breaths eased me through the moment. Only then did I realize Kade was standing at my side.

“Is something wrong, Mia?”

His voice was soft, seductive. Its hypnotic baritone drew me in. I turned toward him, my hand settling on his chest. My face tilted upward of its own accord. Kade held my gaze. The back of his hand caressed my cheek. We stood like that until another contraction forced me to cry out. I bent over the table, grasped its edge, and breathed.

“How long have you been having contractions?” he muttered.

I knew what he was up to. Fake concern. I stared at him, eyes wide, heart pounding in my chest. I professed a lie. “It’s just a backache. Berenger says it’s perfectly normal the last few months.”

Chapter 12

Kade

My decision to send Mia away was born of fear. Baron Michaels’s revelation that One World had been destroyed revived memories of my past. Memories of the Omegas murdered by my hand. Memories of the crimson haze clouding my vision before my teeth ripped Mia’s flesh not once, but twice, mutilating her in the heat of feral rutting madness. Of my callous disregard for her after learning of Gabel’s abuse while I went in search of my brothers.

Too many instances of my inability to provide what my mate needed.

I failed her more than I cared to admit. The reality bit deep, dug its claws in, made me think distance was the only solution.

Foolish. I most certainly was that. I doubted I could ever learn how to be the mate Mia needed. My heart demanded I try. My brain dared me to endanger her, or our child. And, like a fool, I allowed her to leave without even trying.

Locking myself away, sleeping in the study--none of it made that night easier. In the days, and weeks after she left, I felt more alone than ever before. Not a night passed that I did not yearn for her scent, her warmth. I missed everything about Mia.

A fitful night of sleep left me ill-tempered. And then Herald came calling, knocking, and entering my study, without waiting for permission. He presented the ledger with Mia’s written request for dissolution of our marriage before I had the opportunity to ask the reason for his unexpected visit. He ran, and rightfully so. I ripped the ledger in half before heading for the road leading to the settlement.

I would beg for Mia’s forgiveness, and pray the gods would soften her heart. But only after I expressed my irritation at her cowardly approach.

I ran full tilt as rage began to brew. The voice of reason demanded I address the rage. Finding it impossible to do so, I continued running until the settlement appeared. My bellowing roar came without warning.

A group of settlers intercepted me. The bellowed question about Mia’s whereabouts brought their retreat. Their directions were not needed. My mate’s scent drew me to her cottage.

She dared to deny me entrance. Only when she opened the door did a sense of reason return. She was paler than I remembered, her face pinched, brows drawn together. My hands ached to caress her belly, now huge with our baby. My heart called for her. The need to pull her into my arms was overwhelming. I knew she would not allow it.

The weeks apart damaged our pair bond. For the life of me, I could not bring myself to blame her. She offered tea before staring off in the distance. Her fingers grasping the table’s edge until her knuckles blanched. Something was wrong. I knew that much. She blamed her behavior on a backache. Lies. I could not understand the need for her to lie. The voice of reason in my head argued and explained.

You left her, twice, when she needed you. You failed to comfort her after the miscarriage. What did you think would happen?

“You won’t mind if I summon Berenger? For safety’s sake,” I assured her.

“You’ll do as you wish without consideration for my opinion,” Mia sniffed disdainfully. She left the kitchen without another word.

I called Berenger on the mini-COMM unit strapped to my wrist. After hearing my observations, he promised to come at once. Mia’s bedroom door was locked when I searched for her. Unwilling to risk upsetting her, I remained in the living room until Berenger arrived.

“You have some nerve,” he said. Both arms are folded on his chest, mouth set in a line, he waited for my response.

“I can only promise to be a better mate,” I paced the floor, hands flexing at my sides. “Learning that One World was defeated revived memories of my time in the One World prison. Of the things I did. The blood I shed. Innocent blood. Mia, and my child, are innocent. They deserve better than I thought I could give them.”

“It’s the same tired excuse, Kade.” Berenger’s words smacked of disgust. He sat in the rocking chair while he waited for me to continue.

“Being separated from her made me realize I can control my feral nature. For her, I will do anything.” I paused in front of him. “I think she is in labor. She denies it, swears a backache is the only thing bothering her. Examine her, please? I wish no harm to befall my mate, or our child.”

Berenger reached for the medical satchel sitting on the floor by the rocker. He held it in one hand, pausing as he spoke. “You broke her heart. And now you show up on her doorstep demanding another chance. I thought I knew you once, Kade. After this, I’m not so certain I know who you are.”

“You are disappointed in me.”

Laughter was the only reply I received. Berenger shook his head as he stood. A knock, and his request to enter, were met by Mia opening the bedroom door. She did not glance in my direction, not that I could blame her.

Muffled voices filtered through the door. Nearly thirty minutes passed before Berenger opened the door. “You’ll let me know if anything changes.” His statement was directed at Mia.

“Of course.”

I expected the door to close before it did. Once again, she placed a barrier between us.

“What did your examination reveal?” I asked the question with the hope that Berenger would give me some information. Anything to ease the worry.

“False labor,” he assured me. “She wants to rest for a bit. She asked me to remind you this is her home, and you are to leave as I do.”

“I will not leave her. I’ll sleep on the floor if I have to, but I will not leave her, again.”

Berenger chuckled, the first bit of humor he showed since arriving. “I told her you would refuse. You have a lot of making up to do, Kade. Your baby will be here within the next two weeks. Her cervix is dilated two to three centimeters, and the baby is head down, as it should be. Try to fix your mess before then. The baby is large. I would estimate at least ten pounds. Mia will have a difficult time, even under perfect circumstances. It would be nice to know she could depend on you.”

Berenger’s revelation caught me unawares. Blood drained from my face at the thought of Mia suffering, of a complicated birth. All the old wives’ tales came rushing back. Fear grew into the beginnings of terror.

“I will do anything to mend our relationship.” My voice was strained, a hand trembling as I scratched my chin.

“King Kade is afraid. It’s about damned time.” Berenger walked to the door. He paused with a hand on the doorknob. “Call me if anything changes. And do your best to keep Mia calm. In other words, don’t be a jackass. You can censure me later if you feel the need.”

The door closed behind Berenger. Don’t be a jackass. I knew he would remind me of that. Although I hated to admit it, my friend was right. He knew me long enough to understand part of what drove me. He knew how I ticked. I realized it was time to ask for support. My first call was to Gorn. He agreed to meet me at Mia’s cottage. It did not take long for my friend to arrive. I knew I could trust Gorn to steer me in the right direction.

Gorn took a seat on the sofa. That left me to sit in Mia’s rocking chair. There was something comforting about the easy motion of the rocker. I could understand why babies enjoyed it.

“Tell me why I’m here,” Gorn grumbled. He glanced at the mini COMM on his wrist before crossing one leg over the other. “Does Mia know you’ve broken into the house?”

A chuckle rumbled within my chest. “I did not break into the house. She knows I am here. Why do you think the bedroom door is closed, and locked?”

A welcome gale of laughter informed me Gorn understood my predicament. He held his head in both hands. “You’ve really done it, this time. Word is she wrote a decree asking for a divorce. Gods, Kade! You were the first couple to get married. Don’t tell me you’ve let things go until Mia thinks divorce is the only way to carry on.”

“She does.” The thought unsettled me. “I let fear of my past get in the way of my present, and future.”

“The warlord king of Barkjour let fear drive a wedge between him, and the woman he professes to love?”

Gorn’s words made me wince. The entire situation sounded worse now that I thought about it. Perhaps courting Mia would assure her of my love, and dedication.

“I should court her properly. How does one court?”

The bedroom door opened, interrupting further conversation. Mia stood with her arms akimbo. Her face was devoid of emotion. The tendril communicated nothing. She finally cut me off. Not that I could blame her. I sealed my end of the tendril after she left. And it still terrified me to feel nothing communicated from her end of the tendril.

Gorn was the first to speak. “Mia, it’s good to see you, again.”

“Don’t ‘Mia’ me. I would appreciate it if you both would leave. This is my cottage. I prefer the privacy it gives me.” She stood glaring at Gorn, but turned her attention on me when I made the mistake of chuckling. “I mean it!”

“As you wish, madam,” I stood, bowed, and motioned for Gorn to join me. Once we stood outside the cottage, I explained my plan. “We can camp out on the lawn. It’s big enough for both of us. We have tents aboard one of the transports.”

“Camping out?” Gorn asked with brows raised. “You’ve gone off your rocker, Kade. Just apologize to Mia. That should do the trick.”

Only an Alpha without a pair-bonded mate would think to solve the problem so simply. My glare convinced him of my seriousness. He returned with items we would need.

The settlers appreciated the tent pitched on Mia’s lawn beneath a shade tree. One by one, they investigated, and learned of my quest to once again win Mia’s heart. An older Beta built a fire. He provided short, flat logs for us to use as chairs. Another Beta brought food. Before long, the entire settlement knew, and applauded my efforts.

Mia was less than pleased. She saw the tent through her bedroom window. I held back a grin when she beckoned to me.

“How dare you!” she hissed when I approached the window.

“Lady Mia!” I called before bowing. “My heart aches with emptiness. Return to me, my love!”

Gorn, and several of the settlers, collapsed against each other. They laughed uncontrollably. Mia’s snort of disgust brought my grin.

“Have you been reading Shakespeare?” she grumbled. “I’m not impressed.”

Now was my chance to impress her with my seriousness. “What would impress you, my love? I’ll strip naked, and howl at the moon, if it pleases you.”

“Not likely. I’ve seen you naked. You, sir, do not impress me.” She lifted her chin, eyes narrowed as she glared at me.

“I could simply strip naked, and show you how badly I’ve missed you.” A growl rumbled in my chest. Mia’s gasp assured me of its impact.

“Stop it! Don’t you dare growl.” Rosy color filled her cheeks. A raised hand fanned the air as if to cool her face.

“I love you, Mia. I will camp on your lawn until you understand I am serious.”

“You’ve drawn a crowd,” she observed with a bob of her head toward the tent.

I turned, only to see half a dozen more men had joined Gorn. More than one man clutched a bottle of wine in their hand. “Indeed, I have. I should go welcome my guests.”

“Kade, please,” Mia murmured. A hand came to rest on the top of her belly. “I need to rest. I can’t rest if my lawn becomes a tavern.”

Mia took a deep breath, her breasts swelled above the neckline of the low gown she wore. My eyes traced along every curve of her face. Gods, I missed her.

“I would more than willingly come inside with you. I haven’t forgotten the purr you adore, or how you enjoyed back rubs. You only need to ask,” I assured her in a low voice as a smile played about my lips.

“You’re not playing fair.” Mia clasped her hands together. Both clasped hands came to rest on her chest. “I can’t stop loving you, regardless of how poorly you treat me. I’ve only ever wanted you to love me the way I love you, treat me the way I treat you. You push me away at the slightest provocation, with no explanation. My heart was shattered the night you made me leave.” Tears welled in her honey eyes. Her emotional pain was nearly my undoing.

My gut clenched in response. I understood the pain she suffered. I experienced it after she left.

Before I could protest, she closed the window, and drew the curtains. I spend most of the night drinking wine with my companions. It felt good to mingle with my people. We fell onto the sleeping bags after the settlers bid us good night. My dreams were of Mia.

*****

Tree roots growing just under the earth create agonizing beds. I woke to an aching back unlike anything I have experienced in my lifetime. Said tree root jammed firmly into my solar plexus. I rolled over with a groan, only to be greeted by Gorn’s drowsy snicker.

“We’ve made it a week, Kade. She’s not showing any signs of giving in,” he muttered with a hand drawn across his face, fingers scratching a week’s worth of scruff. “I’m going back to the Garrison today where my soft, welcoming bed awaits.”

“You should keep your promise to stand by your king’s side, no matter the conditions.” I didn’t blame Gorn in the least. He awoke each morning with similar aches and pains.

“Talk to the women of the village. Perhaps they can tell you what courting is. I don’t expect it’s camping out on your estranged wife’s lawn in a tent, drinking wine each night until you pass out. I can’t believe Mia threw pebbles at us last night.” Gorn’s voice was tinged with disbelief. “She’s a firecracker that one is.”

We lay there until we could no longer stand the misery. Men of our age should not groan while leaving their bed. Yet, here we were. Mia sat on the porch drinking tea when I chanced a glance in that direction. She observed villagers without once looking in my direction. I could not take my eyes from her.

“You’ve got it bad, Kade,” Gorn observed from his place at my side.

“I do,” I replied. “She does not know the depth of my love. It is the only reason I sent her from me. I will never hurt her.”

Gorn retrieved his belongings from the tent. He thumped my back with a chuckle. “I’m headed home. I’ll check on you from time to time.”

“Coward.”

“Said the Alpha who refuses to walk ten feet to speak to his pregnant Omega. An Omega who is a third his size.” Gorn waved before turning to the path that led to the Garrison.

Perhaps it was time to approach Mia, again. Over the course of the past few days, we had numerous conversations at her bedroom window. Those conversations were singular during the first few days. Our talks began to increase in number as she saw I was serious about camping out on her lawn. We touched on many subjects. I never missed an opportunity to impress upon her my love, and desire, to return to my rightful place at her side. I sang my own awkwardly composed love songs. I brought her flowers, daily. I proposed, again, down on one knee.

Today was the first day she sat on the porch. I hoped something had changed. With that hope, I summoned every bit of courage within me, and walked to the porch where my Omega sat.

“Good morning, love,” I dared to let the faintest of purrs vibrate within my chest.

“Stop purring. You’re not going to seduce me this morning.” Mia attempted a fierce expression but failed miserably. Downcast eyes came to rest on the mug of tea held in one hand. She sighed, forefinger tracing along the cup’s rim.

“What ails you?”

“I miss you,” she whispered in a voice thick with tears.

It took those three words to shatter my resolve to let her come to me. I took the mug from her hand before setting it on the window’s ledge. She was light as a feather in my arms. Her head came to rest against my chest. I wasted no time carrying her inside. My world felt right for the first time in weeks. Sitting on the sofa with my mate in my arms definitely influenced my assessment.

We remained like that for quite some time. I simply held her. Burying my face in dark, silken hair brought a sense of peace. She sighed with contentment. A growl erupted when she nuzzled my chest. The baby stirred often. Our hands, fingers intertwined, cupped her womb.

I knew this moment was worth the days of sleeping on the cold, unwelcoming ground. Our tendril pulsed with love, and forgiveness. My Omega was my salvation. My heart. My world. She forgave me. Now that I knew what life without her was like, I vowed never to push her away again.

Days later, I held Mia’s hand, murmured words of encouragement, and sponged her perspiration-covered brow as she struggled to bring our child into the world. A wrinkly, red-faced, crying babe, sprawled on his mother’s breast, stole my heart.

It was fitting that I learned my heart was large enough to share with more than one person. By sharing my heart, I gained so much more. I was no longer lost. I no longer felt awkward in my own skin. Nightmares of One World failed to haunt my sleep.

Everything was right in my world. Just as it should be.

Dear Reader, please keep reading for a sneak peak of Simone, book one of the Vampire Passions duet!

Simone

Vampire Passions Duet

Book One

Copyright 2020 © A.R. Ford

Chapter 1

The Elder Council

London, 1632 A.D.

Clouds cloaked the sliver of a moon as the midnight hour drew nigh. A wolf howled in the distance as if warning others of the clandestine meeting scheduled to convene soon. A grin revealed ivory fangs stained with crimson from a snack taken only moments earlier. Only a fool would dare break the secrecy of the elder council’s gathering. 

I was no fool. 

Keeping to the shadows, I made haste toward the manor. I entered the foyer in silence. Whispered voices drew my attention as I passed by a sitting room. Curiosity demanded I listen. Only secrets would be spoken in such a tone. 

“You must convince them to adopt the plan.” 

I would recognize the voice anywhere. Malachi. The youngest and most unpredictable member of the council. 

“Trust me. The fools will adopt the decree before morning. I would never disappoint you, darling.” 

Idris? Why would Idris and Malachi speak secretly about matters concerning the council?

“You and I will guide our kindred into the modern age. Imagine the power we will wield.”

It all made perfect sense now. Malachi plotted to assume power. His rule would only bring chaos and destruction to our kind. 

My plan to tell Silvanus the instant I saw him fell apart when I arrived only to find the remaining members of the council present. Idris and Malachi arrived moments later. The information could wait until later. Who knew if I could trust the others? I assumed a position in a corner near Silvanus. From there I surveyed the room. 

Flames licked along the length of a dry log. Sparks and smoke spiraled aloft only to be sucked through the chimney into the night sky. A draft fluttered a cobweb clinging precariously to its stony perch in one corner of the room. The voluminous chamber contained only a long oak table surrounded by chairs covered in crimson velvet. Two massive candelabras cast flickering tendrils of gold light onto the table and those sitting around it. 

The occupants of the table were an odd crew. Any who saw them would pause, glance from one to the other, then run in terror as the truth of who stood before them seeped into their gut. 

A gaunt-faced man sat at the head of the table. Piercing crimson eyes bored into one person for several seconds before snapping to the next. A curtain of white hair fell in waves even with his shoulders. Nails filed into coffin tips tapped the table top. Silvanus commanded respect. Not only did he lead the council. He held a place of honor as the oldest true born vampire. 

The cursory inspection of the others gathered at the table ended. Only then did he speak. “As head of the Elder Council, I feel it is time we address our shrinking numbers.” Thin lips stretched across yellowed fangs when he spoke. When done, he sucked his teeth while simultaneously flicking the tip of his tongue across said fangs. 

“Our dwindling numbers would not be an issue had you listened to my warning years ago, Silvanus. As our elder, you hold a responsibility to protect our kind,” Malachi hissed with narrowed eyes and an icy tone to his voice. All were signs of his discontent with the matter. 

“Regardless,” Silvanus growled, “We should address the matter now.” 

Idris, the only vampiress on the council, could stun anyone with her beauty. A curtain of waist-length auburn hair fell even with her waist. She stood without warning. The emerald silk gown she wore swayed as she walked to the fireplace. With a hand resting casually on the mantle she addressed those remaining at the table. “I will share my opinion on the matter. We must protect the sanctity of our kind and strengthen the vampire kingdom. Without appropriate leadership there is a distinct possibility we will be extinct in a few centuries.” 

“Spoken like a true-born vampire, Idris.” Malachi glanced around the table before speaking again. “I offer a solution of sorts. True-born vampire numbers are dwindling. Why not allow a king and queen to rule? Make the requirements difficult to achieve. Have them prove their worth by siring a child.” 

“That’s preposterous!” Nicodemus shouted. “A pure-blood vampire is nearly impossible. Most of our kind are turned by their sire. Why not elect members of the council?” Nicodemus glanced at Zaros, the remaining member of the council. “What do you say, Zaros?”

Zaros grinned, white teeth contrasting against the swarthy skin of his face. “Why not put them to the test? Finding a mate and siring a child should test the mettle of any vampire.” 

“Let us vote,” Silvanus interjected. “All those in favor of creating an edict allowing a vampire and vampiress who bring a pure-blood vampire into the world to rule, say aye.” 

“Conditions are warranted,” Idris murmured from her place at the fireplace. Her eyes flicked to Malachi for a fraction of a second. None of the others noticed. “To ensure we have a ruler who understands our kind, require the vampire to be at least two centuries old.”

“I say the vampiress should be at least a century in age.” Zaros’s deep voice boomed across the room. 

“Have we finished squabbling, children?” Silvanus drawled while inspecting his nails. 

In the end, every true-born in the room voted in favor of the edict. Idris penned several copies of the decree entitled the Elder Council’s Grimoire. Each copy held the signatures of all members of the council. Each council member retained a copy of the decree. 

The beginnings of a plan developed in my mind at that moment. I held my tongue until I could speak with Silvanus. My respect for my sire and adra grew to epic proportions while under his tutelage. One did not become an elder of his age by making foolish decisions. 

“We must make a plan. I overheard Idris and Malachi before the meeting began. They fully intend to seize power.”

“We cannot allow him take power.” Silvanus grimaced at my profession. 

“I will never allow that to happen.” Silvanus sat in a chair by the fire sipping a heady mixture of blood and brandy combined to create a vampiric cocktail of pristine quality. 

I joined him there. The vacant chair creaked when I sat down. Flames licked along the length of a log. A burst of sparks and smoke swirled before being sucked through the chimney. 

“What can we do?”

Silvanus sighed. The drawn-out whisper of his breath added import to his words. “He would destroy us all just to hold power. You have my blessings, Gareth. Do what must be done.”

“Consider it done.”

I would defeat Malachi by any means necessary. Only one question remained. But could I afford the ultimate cost?

Chapter 2

Simone

My life as a girl passed in that guilt-free, tranquil way that only children can manage. My parents doted upon me. My birth in 1784 left my mother unable to have another child. All the love in her heart became mine. She doted upon me, as did my father. We were not rich but lived in adequate comfort for the time. My days were often spent running and playing with my friends. 

Our home on the outskirts of the town escaped the worst of the raiding that occurred during the Revolutionary War. Mother often said God protected us during those horrible times. Looking back at it, I wonder how we managed to escape without having been murdered. 

And as any rambunctious young lady who thought she knew it all, I threw caution to the wind and pursued a man who stole my heart. I thought I loved him. Much later I learned it was but a foolish thought for a foolish girl. 

Malcolm Swain was the epitome of a cultured southern gentleman in 1800. He was well-known around Richmond as a wealthy man. He wore suits most often with freshly starched white shirts and colorful cravats. He walked with the air of someone who was important. 

But that was not all. Malcolm kept his blonde hair tied back with a strip of leather. Blue eyes the color of the sky danced with merriment. He never seemed to be in a bad mood. His skin was tanned from many hours in the sun. Broad shouldered and narrow hipped, he easily stole the heart of more than one young lady. 

I should have known his whispered professions of love when he walked me home from the governor’s ball were lies. I let him pull me in, my innocent heart starved for affection. 

I was, after all, at the age of twenty considered a spinster. Society neglected to understand my mother’s failing health kept me home. I regretted none of the time spent caring for her until her death six months earlier. I had no siblings. My father had been killed in an accident on a logging site three years before mama passed away. 

I was alone. Understanding developed afterwards. It is no wonder I fell under Malcolm’s spell. Vulnerable. Lonely. Grieving. The perfect opportunity presented to Malcolm. He simply could not resist. 

And yet I digress as I tell my tale. 

Warm, late spring air caressed my heaving bosom when Malcolm pressed me against a building in that alley. 

“I need you, Simone,” he breathed against my ear. 

The moist heat of his tongue against my ear brought my body to life. Nipples pebbled. A swirling vortex of desire expanded in my core until my entire body was consumed. His hands were skilled in the art of seduction. Their caress upon my body teased the flames higher. His kiss was intoxicating. I gave myself up to Malcolm Swain, moaning and writhing against him. 

“Malcolm.” I sighed when he trailed kisses from my bosom, along a collarbone, and upwards again to my neck. 

“Do you surrender to me, Simone?” 

“Yes!” came the whispered plea. 

His true intentions were revealed at that moment. Even as a hand stole beneath my petticoat to stroke a trembling thigh. The first nip of his teeth was gentle. The sensation only served to inflame my virginal need. Had I known then what I know now, I would have attempted escape. 

The piercing agony of his fangs brought a silent scream. My heart pounded in my ears as he drained my essence. Those fingers stroked and caressed my thigh, moving higher until he found the bundle of nerves at the apex of my sex. He roughly stimulated the nub through the cotton pantaloons I wore only because every proper woman wore them. The sick, twisted horror of it all did not diminish the powerful orgasm he forced upon me. He sought to give some form of solace while he butchered me. 

There would be no happily ever after for us. Malcolm tired of me even as I lay dying in his arms. When his thirst was quenched, he allowed my body to fall to the ground. Carelessly forgotten. Hazy darkness enclosed the periphery of my vision. Breaths so faint as to be undetectable filled my lungs with the scent of death. 

“You were as delicious as I suspected, Simone. What a pity. Had we met a hundred years ago this night would have ended much differently.” His voice was a low rasp vibrating in my ears. He cleansed the blood from his lips with a handkerchief. The crunch of gravel beneath his shoes signaled his retreat. 

I lay in that alley forever it seemed. Awareness faded only to return unexpectedly. Richmond’s streets were deserted at this hour. The agonizing burn of the venom began not long after Malcolm deserted me. A white-hot pain unlike any I have experienced grew in intensity. It spread throughout my body. Every cell of my being felt the excruciating pain of transformation. 

My body writhed and jerked in the alley’s filth. Tears poured from eyes that gazed unseeing at the night sky. When the first bit of strength filled my body, I dragged myself upright. I staggered and fought my way through the empty streets toward home. 

Isn’t that the way of it all? A dying dog seeks solitary solace. I was no different. 

Along the way I encountered a drunken bum in yet another alley. He called out with a bottle of liquor held aloft. No doubt the man thought I was inebriated when I staggered toward him. I joined him, but not for the drink of whiskey he suggested. I left him lying in the alley, exsanguinated and bereft of life. I would not make the same mistake as Malcolm. I would sire no vampires. 

The copper-laced, crimson cocktail gave me the strength I needed to push on. By the time I made it home, dawn’s rainbow inched across the sky. I locked the doors, retreating to my room on the second floor of the house. Shades drawn, I stripped the suddenly abhorrent gown from my body. Cool sheets assuaged the fiery burn of turning. 

Agony so exquisite my fingernails left claw marks in the headboard tormented me for hours. When at long last the venom became one with every last cell of my being, I fell into an exhausted slumber. Peace was not to be had. Nightmarish visions of the night filled my dreams. 

When I woke, everything changed. Instead of being sickened by my appearance, I found I rather liked what I saw in the mirror. My entire body assumed the sleek, lean appearance of an athlete. Full, firm breasts. A narrow waist. Hips the perfect proportion for my frame. My body was sheer perfection.

No longer was I the pudgy spinster. My hair was long, shiny, and felt like silk between my fingers. My face was much different. Delicately arched brows would never need plucking. High cheekbones accentuated my features. Full, rosy lips smiled back at me from the mirror. Icy, silvery blue eyes caught my attention. Hours earlier the irises were crimson, no doubt the influence of the turning. 

“Beautiful,” I whispered at my reflection. 

Other changes came with Malcolm’s gift. Some I knew within hours of waking on the first day of my life as a vampire. Others I gained awareness of later. 

My mind moved at an astronomical speed. Deciphering. Plotting. Planning. All with an ease that evaded me before. I was no addlepated woman repressed by society, meant only to be kept barefoot and pregnant. I was now a force to be reckoned with. As a newborn, my skills were intrinsically more powerful and effective. My first target? Malcolm Swain. 

*****

I spent a week roaming nightly about Malcolm’s mansion. I learned he was not alone. A half dozen others lived with him. Malcolm’s coven. Squatting at the edge of the forest near his home, I smiled. All of them would die. 

After a few days of following Malcolm I knew his habits. He and his coven retired to the basement of the mansion each night a few hours before dawn. I grew bolder, going so far as to creep into the basement to verify they slept. The risk was well worth the gain. Each of them slept in coffins lying on the floor. 

Malcolm grew lax in the false belief that he and his coven were the only vampires in Richmond. Silly man. He should have followed through with his plan to kill me. His carelessness gave birth to a formidable enemy. One he was blissfully unaware of. 

The city served as home for all sorts of people. Some innately good. Some innately evil. My search revealed those who were in the center of good and evil. Those who were down on their luck, in desperate need of coin. Their misfortune served my needs perfectly. The men I selected would do as I asked in return for money. Their first task came in the form of procuring lamp oil in kegs. 

After a late night spent at a ball at the governor’s mansion, Malcolm suspected nothing. I followed at a distance, ensuring he went home. My underlings lingered with me in the shadows for an hour. We crept into the basement. My hired hands paused at their assigned coffin, moving into action only when I nodded. 

A vampire’s death at the stake is an unsettling experience. The lesser vampires reacted with eyes opening, a soft hiss escaping the moment the stake pierced their hearts. I waited until the others were dead to destroy Malcolm. 

His face in repose was sculptured perfection. No. I would not let his magnetic pull distract me. The stake came to rest on his broad chest. Without hesitation, I drove the stake in with a solid strike of the mallet. His eyes opened, filling with terror. He did not hiss. Instead, he cried, “Simone!” 

I did not hesitate. A final pound of the mallet brought Malcolm’s demise. 

The task was not yet complete. Lamp oil poured over each coffin then throughout the mansion fulfilled the second part of my plan. A solitary lamp left burning in the mansion’s entryway provided the needed ignition. I tossed it to the floor, entranced with the ravenous hunger of flames for wood. The underlings pulled me away. They were concerned only for their pay. 

“Betray me not,” I intoned while placing the agreed upon amount of money in their outstretched hands. The men paled and backed away when I revealed my fangs. 

I stood watching as flames consumed the mansion. Satisfaction at a job well done filled me when the mansion’s roof  collapsed. 

Just before the sun rose, I retired to my humble home to sleep with the blinds and drapes drawn. My first act of vengeance upon men made me sleep like a baby. It would not be the last. 

About the Author

You came here looking to learn a bit more about me. I wanted to give you something more personal and interactive. Not the usual canned bio that goes in an author's book.

Well, here goes. I've lived in the Appalachian Mountains my entire life. I met my soulmate and married him a month after we met. That was over thirty years ago. Sounds like true love, right? I know it's true love. We are closer now than we have ever been. We have an adult daughter who has developmental delays and severe mental health disorders. She lives at home with us. Two adorable fur babies round out our family. 

I've been an avid reader since learning how to read. I would read on the bus on the way home after school ended each day. I read anything I could get my hands on, including ingredient labels on food. My first romance novel was The Flame and The Flower by Kathleen Woodiwiss. It rocked my world in more ways than one. It was an intense, dramatic enemies-to-lovers love story that lit the writing bug in my young heart. I began writing not long afterwards but was discouraged to continue as writing was not seen as an appropriate career to pursue and romance books were not seen as being appropriate by my traditional parents. 

Writing went on the back shelf while I grew up, fell in love, and became a wife. I returned to school for a master's degree during my daughter's worst struggles with bipolar disorder. I have worked in the behavioral health treatment field since 2013. 

Pursuing a doctoral degree made me realize an important fact. I don't like school and writing academic papers. The urge to write creatively returned in the winter of 2019. Since that time, I have written and published ten novellas under two pen names. 

I tend to write dark, twisted love stories that most often have a happy ending. Not all of my stories will have that happy ending. You have been warned, and I say that with a smile.

Forever My Knight, my debut novella under this pen name, was published November 15, 2019. I haven't looked back since that day. I continue to write and make plans for future books. 

If you would like to stay updated on my books, visit my website located at https://www.authorarford.com

You can join my mailing list at https://mailchi.mp/80b5c8f40bb9/authorarford

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Books by A. R. Ford

The Hunter (Prequel to the Hidden Gems series)

The Warner Series

Forever My Knight (Warner #1)

Concrete Justice (Warner #2)

Darkness Overcomes (Warner #3)

The Warner Series Trilogy (Warner #1-#3)

The Dirty Billionaire Series

Dirty, Rotten Bastard

Hidden Gems Dark Omegaverse Series

Doppelgänger  (February 14, 2020)

Claiming an Alpha’s Heart (April 3, 2020)

Twisted Fates (expected May 1, 2020)

Vampire Passions Duet

Simone (expected September 2020)

Gareth (expected November 2020)