A Wolf's Pride

Chapter One

It had been several months since his brother had found and claimed his mate and Ryan found that he was suffering as a result of the aftermath. His mother had given birth to twin girls not too long ago, naming them Vivian and Sophia, and while she adored his little sisters as much as he did, after their birth she had turned her attention to her last single son. Her incessant demands for him to claim a mate were heaped upon the demands of his wolf, giving him continental sized headaches. He wanted a mate just as much as his mother and his wolf did. More so even, the combined mating scents of his brother and his cousin were driving him insane. It was more than any wolf could be asked to withstand. And that was the reason why he was here, within the halls of another clan, dressed in his best yet again as he continued his search for a mate. He tugged on his suit’s tie feeling uncomfortable in the formal attire but he wanted to appear his best, to show his mate that he could provide and protect her.

Lord Ryan?

He turned to look into the bright green eyes of the Lord of the South Eastern clan. The man was tall, as was typical for their people with a large frame that projected an image contrary to his gentle nature. Yes, he replied.

The females of our clan are ready, are you prepared to receive them?

His spine stiffened in anticipation, hope rising within him. He had been through this procedure many times in the last few months and though he had yet to find his mate he was still optimistic. Yes, show them in.

The large double doors opened and women of all shapes and sizes were shown in. When he had first started his search he had thought that only a few women would respond to his summons but he had been proved wrong time and time again since that first day, apparently his title worked in his best interests during times like these. He forced a smile to his face, if his mate was among these women he wanted her to have a good first impression of him, they were important. The females lined up before the small stage he was standing on, surprisingly coordinated for having only just met. Once they had finished moving, Ryan began his quest.

He walked down the stone steps that separated them and approached the first woman in the line. She was pretty, he supposed, with thick auburn hair and shimmering grey eyes but he could tell instantly that she wasn’t the one. Nevertheless for the sake of appearances he moved very close to her and inhaled deeply. Her scent did nothing for him as he had expected and he shook his head and walked down the line. He continued this procedure, moving in close to a woman, breathing deeply and shaking his head as he discovered another failure, until he reached the end of the line. Again his mate was nowhere to be found. This is getting ridiculous, he growled.

You’re telling me. His wolf inserted, thoroughly disappointed that once again they would be returning home empty handed. I want our mate Ryan, you should be doing more to find her.

I’m doing all I can. Pulling himself from his mental musings, he turned to once again regard the leader of this particular clan. Thank you for your time and assistance, but it appears that my mate isn’t here. I’ll simply have to continue my search. The man moved as though to speak but Ryan turned on his heel and began to walk towards the entrance; he was not in the mood to deal with people right now.

As he walked down the halls, making his way to the exit, he began to disassemble his formal attire, pulling off his tie and undoing the buttons on his shirt. Another day, another failure. I’ve checked all the clans again this month and once again nothing. How long will I have to wait? It had become part of his routine to check each and every clan each and every month. He was convinced that his mate was alive, he could feel it in his bones, and the knowledge that she existed was also probably what was driving his wolf to such extremes in behaviour. He had therefore theorised that she had probably not reached maturity, which was why he had not found her yet, and if he made regular trips to the clans he would come across her eventually.

I want our mate! His wolf screamed. I want our mate. I want our mate. I want our mate. Since his wolf had begun making these demands he had learnt how to tune its voice out so that it was simply background music to his thoughts. The ringing of his phone provided a welcome reprieve from his practically rabid wolf and he answered quickly, barely suppressing a groan when he realised who was on the phone.

Well Ryan? his mother inquired, her voice hopeful. Any luck this time?

No, she wasn’t here either.

Elaine sighed, disappointed. Well there are other clans for you to look at this month, hopefully she’ll be in one of those.

I sincerely hope so, he groaned, his wolf’s demands escalating in volume. How are Vivian and Sophia?

Fine, growing like weeds, I think they’ll be able to transform any day now. The sound of a baby’s cries floated to his ears through the phone. And apparently they’re hungry. I have to go love. I’ll speak to you when you get home and then we can makes plans for which clans you can go to next. Maybe instead of just asking the women to present themselves we should ask the Lords to give us directions to where they live. If Sebastian had gone about things with Erica like you are, he might never have found her. Times are changing and we have to change with them. See you soon love. His mother hung up and he groaned, her plans had already begun, apparently he was not needed to make them.

The phone within his hand rang again and he snapped it open, expecting a follow up call from his mother. Yes?

Ryan, it’s Sebastian. Ryan groaned in relief at hearing his brother’s voice rather than his mother’s. Look, I know that you’re looking for your mate right now, how did that go by the way?

Another failure, he answered simply.

Oh, well don’t worry, you’ll find her soon enough. Anyway, I need you to go to San Francisco.

Why?

There’s a meeting for one of our businesses there, I’ve already prepared all the paper work and information, all you need to do is be there to represent us and get us the best deal.

I can do that, it’s what I’m good at. And hopefully it will get me away from mother’s matchmaking. When do you need me to go?

You’re expected on Monday.

Thanks Sebastian, you’ve saved me.

From what?

Your mother is making plans.

Sebastian groaned. You know that now you won’t be here she’s going to turn her attentions on to me.

Finally arriving at the double doors that led out of the clan, Ryan threw them open and strode into the warm sunlight. I don’t know what you’re complaining about, it isn’t as though you have anything to worry about, you have a mate.

Yes, and she, mother and Alex are ganging up on us. I blame Tobias. He’s so protective of Alex that she can only get away when she’s with them and then they rant and rave over our protective ways.

It’s not as though you can say anything Sebastian, you’re just as bad with Erica, I never imagined that you would become this paranoid when you found your mate. And Alex? She’s pregnant with the heir to the throne; it’s understandable that Tobias would be worried. Have you seen her lately? She looks like she’s either going to topple over or give birth early and the doctors said that’s a possibility. She’s so small and triplets? Nope, I’m siding with Tobias on this one. Get used to being ganged up on in my absence, he laughed. Right, well I’m coming back now. I’ll get the info from you and then be on my way.

You’ll get there early. Sebastian remarked calmly.

I know but it means I escape your mother’s schemes. See you soon. He ended the call, pocketed the phone and was off eager to be free of the stresses that failing to find his mate were heaping upon him.

*****

As was tradition, Chloe crept into her father’s house on Sunday morning and headed straight for the kitchen to prepare breakfast for her large but culinary incompetent family. The tradition had first started ten years ago, she had been thirteen and her mother had died in a car crash. She had left behind four children and a grieving husband. Her father had thrown himself wholeheartedly into work and his private hobby, hunting and had roped her three older brothers into joining him. They had expressly forbidden her from joining them claiming that it was too dangerous for her to come along. So to maintain close ties with her family she had decided to implement this tradition. Every Sunday without fail she made her family a large breakfast and they all sat down to enjoy it, ensuring that they were never in the dark too long about what was going on in each others lives. She had managed to keep the tradition going all through her time at university and even though she had officially moved away from home six months ago, she was determined to uphold her record. Having lived most of her life as the sole female amidst a hoard of men, they had initially asked her to cook food for them on a daily basis. While her mother may have believed in cooking healthy food daily for her family, Chloe couldn’t bring herself to do it. If they were so lazy that they couldn’t be bothered to cook for themselves then they should either starve or hire a chef.

Her family had chosen to do neither and the house reflected that decision. Old takeout boxes littered the living room, covering all available surfaces and a large portion of the floor. She made her way through the treacherous terrain, years of practice serving her well. The house that she had grown up in was large, but it had had to be to fit her large family, sprawled out over two floors with enough bedrooms for each of her father’s children. The only room in the house that was clean was the kitchen because it was rarely used and she made sure to severely scold her family if they left it in a disgusting state. She had once threatened to never cook for them again should they leave it in the same condition as the rest of the house and they had apparently taken the threat to heart.

Once she was firmly in the kitchen, her hands moved automatically, cooking with the kind of skill that came from years of practise. She knew exactly what each member of her family wanted for their breakfasts and cooked accordingly. There was no point in cooking what was likely the only home cooked meal they would eat for the week if it weren’t made to their exact specifications.

As she moved about the kitchen she felt a sense of comfort wash over her. She had moved out a few months ago determined to show the overprotective males that made up her family that she could take care of herself. Her family were the very definition of overprotective. While she loved them, they had not made her life easy when she was growing up. Every one of them was tall and very well built, making her feel excruciatingly small in comparison. Unfortunately, they had also made any male that had expressed even a modicum of interest in her experience similar feelings. She had never had the most attractive figure in the world, years of living with a group of males who lived on nothing but takeouts had seen to that. The pickings had been slim even without the help of her family. If any of the few males that had liked her and she had liked in return had chosen to brave the dangers of her family, they had gone out of their way to inspire fear in them and make sure that whoever they were knew they weren’t wanted. Every member of her family was convinced that the world was a dangerous place and every man had circumspect intentions. Needless to say it had made dating very difficult and moving out even more so. They had done their best to convince her to stay within the safe protection of their home but she had been adamant in her determination to move. They had eventually accepted her decision though they made sure she was aware that they disapproved.

The scent of cooking food seemed to draw her family from their beds and the sound of heavy footfalls on the stairs was soon heard. Jonathon, her eldest brother at 27, was the first to crawl from his bed and down the stairs, closely followed by her younger brothers, Christian and Daniel. Her brother’s had all inherited their dark hair and stocky builds from their father, making Chloe with her bright blonde hair seem sort of an outside now that her mother was no longer alive. The only thing that they shared was their unusual violet eyes. Mumbled grunts of appreciation were thrown in her general direction as she placed plates of food in front of them.

Now that isn’t the way to say thank you to your sister is it? The sharp reprimand had Chloe turning to look at her father as he descended the stairs.

Don’t worry about it daddy, I’m used to it by now. She smiled, moving to his side and placing an affectionate kiss against his cheek. I’ve been trying to change them for years and nothing I’ve done has affected them in the slightest, they’re too old and stuck in their ways to change now.

But still…

Daddy, just eat your breakfast, she sighed, placing a plate of food in front of him.

Harry picked at his breakfast, his eyes focused instead on his only daughter. So Chloe, how is the new apartment?

Yeah Chloe, Christian inserted. How goes independent living?

It’s wonderful. I love it.

Harry mulled over the latest piece of information before slamming his cutlery against the table. Chloe, come home. I don’t like the idea of you living away from us.

No, she replied calmly, continuing to eat her breakfast as though her father had not spoken.

Chloe, I’m serious, Harry growled.

So am I daddy. I’m not moving back home. I like being independent, I like having my own place and I like my job. There’s nothing you can say to me to change those facts.

The world isn’t a safe place, especially for someone like you.

Daddy, you’re paranoid. I’m aware of the dangers that lurk around corners and I know how to avoid them so stop worrying.

Chloe, Harry was cut off as his mobile began to ring. It never left his side. He answered with a sharp, What? His attention began to be absorbed by what the person on the other end of the line was saying and Chloe sighed, disappointed. She knew where that look led. We’ll be there as soon as we can, he stated calmly.

Her brothers had stopped eating when her father had answered the phone and were now looking at him expectantly. Get dressed, we’re leaving.

A hunt or reconnaissance? Jonathan asked.

Reconnaissance, but Robert thinks that this is a genuine lead.

Her brothers stood and Chloe frowned. Daddy, Chloe groaned. We’re eating breakfast.

I know sugar but this is important.

Daddy, werewolves don’t exist. You’re wasting your time and Jonathan’s, Christian’s and Daniel’s. Just come and sit back down and we can pretend that you didn’t get that phone call.

We can’t Chloe, I’m sorry about breakfast, he apologised, placing a kiss against her cheek before he left the room and walked back up the stairs.

Chloe began moving around the kitchen cleaning up the barely eaten breakfast that she had made. Her family leaving half way through the meal was as much a part of the tradition as the breakfast itself. Her father enjoyed hunting and while she had initially had nothing against his hobby, it had helped him overcome his grief when her mother died, it was now getting ridiculous. Her father was obsessed with the idea of werewolves and had ingrained the obsession onto his sons. They had even gone so far as to get tattoos permanently engraved into their skin. It was ridiculous. Her grandfather had been just as obsessed so it was to be expected. Werewolves didn’t exist, why couldn’t they accept that?

Chapter Two

Ryan didn’t like cities. He hated them with a blazing passion. It was a well known fact among the members of his clan and nevertheless here he was, yet again in another city that was pushing his tolerance to its limits. He supposed from the perspective of a human San Francisco was a beautiful place, but to his heightened senses it was nothing short of hell. It was loud, too loud, the noise pressing in on him so hard that he thought his eardrums would burst. There were far too many smells in the air and most of them were distinctly unpleasant and the final straw was the distinct lack of greenery around him.

Everywhere he went there was concrete, concrete and more concrete. He had begun to feel trapped, hemmed in by his suit and kept in his own personal hell by businessmen that seemed to be lacking in basic common sense. If he had not been the representative for the interests of his clan, he would simply have walked out and not spared a single glance back. But the fact remained that he was. It was his responsibility to ensure that the clans remained wealthy enough to maintain their privacy. The business tasks themselves weren’t all that hard, he had the instinct guiding him after all; it was simply the environment that was taking its toll. After two hours in this place he had immediately regretted his decision to leave early but Monday was drawing to a close, the meetings had concluded with the clan gaining significantly and he could finally return home.

He had left the building where the meetings were being held and was now making his way from this city, determined to get back to the peace and tranquillity of familiar surroundings. He walked along the darkening streets with confidence, there was nothing out there more dangerous than he. His journey took him past a small elementary school and he smiled at the bright colours that covered the school’s welcome sign. He had always loved children, often relieving stressed parents within his clan of their young and taking care of them for hours at a time. His own mother had had difficulties conceiving a second time around and so he had never had any other sibling than his brother Sebastian. Now however, he seemed to be inundated with new children in his family. His mother had given birth to twins and they were perfectly healthy, his brother was acting as a surrogate father figure to his mate’s siblings and his cousin’s mate would give birth to triplets any day. While the knowledge that his family was growing dramatically in size brought a smile to his face, it was a sad one. His mind continued to wander to the mate he had yet to find, imagining what their children would look like. He sighed dejectedly moving away from the school.

His steps halted abruptly as a delectable fragrance wrapped itself around his brain. His eyes closed to savour the scent and he found that his body had begun moving of its own accord to reach the source. The smell was clouding his mind, making it difficult to think, though his wolf had finally ceased its frantic demands. He walked on silent feet as he padded round the outside of the school building, finally coming to a halt in front of an open window. The window looked into a classroom that was on first glance empty but as he continued to scan his surroundings, he finally laid eyes on a woman. She was hunched over a desk, her hands moving quickly and efficiently over the sheets of paper that covered the table’s surface.

Mine, his wolf purred. Our mate.

Ryan’s heart sped up at the realisation of who this woman was and he took the time to look her over. She had hair the colour of the sun, cut short to frame her softly rounded face. Her skin was a healthy tan and seemed to be calling out to him, inviting him to touch. He couldn’t see her face properly or the colour of her eyes as she had her face close to the desk. She wore very loose clothing and he had to resist the urge to growl at the different obstructions to his observation.

I have to find out what she’s hiding beneath those clothes, he decided. There’s too much I can’t see. She’s my mate, I deserve to know everything about her.

Take her, she’s ours. His wolf suggested. Throw her over your shoulder, take her back to the clans and claim her.

Ryan smirked, That’s a very good idea. He had and his wolf had a very good relationship, one where they rarely disagreed. It led people to believe he was impulsive, his actions rash but he could tolerate their accusations so long as he had peace of mind and he did. As long as we have her, we can work on our relationship. Yes, taking her back to the clans is a very good idea.

Do it now.

No, not yet. Despite the fact that they were often in agreement, Ryan was still hampered by reason, he could understand the consequences of his actions. While they had minor disagreements about the methods used, the end results were the same. We’re far from the clans and she, he inhaled deeply, she’s human. We can’t go back the way we came. I doubt she would come willingly. I need to make provisions.

Will you take long?

I only need some form of transport, everything else I can get along the way.

I love the way you think.

The feeling is definitely mutual. Wait for me love, I’ll be back before you know it, he whispered to her before slinking away into the night to complete his tasks.

As Chloe marked the work of the children in her class, she couldn’t shake the feeling that someone was watching her. Her head lifted suddenly, spinning to look at the only window the classroom had. There was no one there. I’m just being paranoid, she decided. It’s probably because I’m working here so late by myself, it’s creepy to be in the school with no one about. I’ll finish the marking at home. Gathering her students’ work, she placed them in her large bag and strode out of the building. She only realised how late it was when she was outside, the sky was dark now though she supposed as winter was approaching that was to be expected. She walked quickly to her car, her shoes clacking loudly against the concrete that covered the parking lot. Hers was the last car there; if her father or brothers found out about this she would never hear the end of it.

The drive home was quick but she had chosen her apartment because of its proximity to the school she had just started working at. She loved her job as a teacher, working with the children everyday brought her such joy though it had been a battle to make her family see things that way. They had seen so many things on the news where teachers had been attacked by their pupils, that they had decided it was too dangerous for her to be in that occupation. Chloe had laughed off their concerns, she was teaching elementary school for crying out loud.

She entered the small space that was now her home, the silence pressing in on her. After spending most of her life amidst loud, boisterous men, it was the quiet that was the most unnerving thing about living alone. It was deafening. The front door led directly into the living room and it was there she headed first, turning on her stereo system to combat the quietness of her living space. The living room opened on to the kitchen and she put her heavy bag on the kitchen counter, placing a ready meal into the microwave before heading into her bedroom to change into more comfortable clothes. The microwave told her that her food was ready with a loud ping and she took the meal and the work she had yet to look over and sat in the living room. Her head down, she began to examine the work in front of her, it wasn’t difficult to grade, the children were all about eight after all but there was a lot of it. The marking took longer than she had thought it would and by the time she was finished, she could feel her eyes dropping in fatigue. Staggering into her bedroom, she opened the drawer that contained her nightwear, running her fingers over the soft silks. Although she knew that it was very unlikely that anyone would see her in the expensive chemises, they were her one weakness when it came to retail. She couldn’t seem to stop herself from buying them. She stripped and redressed quickly, quietly slipping in between the sheets and letting sleep claim her.

It had taken Ryan longer than he had thought it would to acquire suitable transport for his mate. There were apparently very few car dealerships open late at night. However, he had made a few phone calls and a very accommodating manager had opened his doors just for him. Money spoke volumes with humans, though for the amount he had parted with it should have sung, danced and opened a Broadway musical. He had never really seen the joy in having lots of money. It didn’t buy happiness, only when you found your mate could you truly be happy, but as he had discovered money could go a long way to acquiring your mate when she was human.

His means of transport acquired, he had driven to where her luscious strawberry scent had led and parked outside. He gazed up at the apartment block, frowning immediately. This place isn’t safe, who knows what sort of lunatics she has as neighbours. Does the woman have no regard for her personal safety? His eyes scanned the neighbourhood around him and his frown deepened. It wasn’t the seediest place he had ever seen on his travels but its security was laughable. There were no security cameras anywhere near her building, no vigilant guards or dogs. Obviously she doesn’t think about the danger her surroundings present. It works in my favour now but what if something had happened to her before I found her? I would have lived my life without ever finding her. It’s not acceptable.

He walked up the short flight of stone steps that led into the building, the lock turned easily within his grip and he scowled. It’s a good thing I found her when I did. His mate’s scent stopped on one of the lower floors and his scowl turned into a growl. It’s not safe for her to live this low to the ground, anyone could break in through a window. The list of faults with his mate’s place of residence continued to grow. He stopped outside of her door and turned the handle that led into her apartment. The door didn’t immediately open and he smiled. Thank the lord, there’s at least one thing semi-secure about this place. He exerted a little more force on the handle, it conceded to his superior strength and the scowl returned. He entered her home, noting the bright colours that decorated the walls as he tossed the handle to a far flung corner of the room. There wasn’t much in the way of furniture, a small television, a small sofa and a small table. His scowl concerning the lack of security turned into a sad frown at the almost barren place she was living in. It shouldn’t be like this, not for her. She should have whatever she wants; live in the safest most impenetrable place imaginable.

And she will do. His wolf reminded him. As soon as you convince her to come home with us.

Yes, Ryan conceded. I’m doing this just as much for her as for me.

His body instantly led him to his mate’s side and his heart twisted as he observed her resting peacefully against teal sheets. She really is beautiful. He stepped forward and stood at the side of the bed. His heart beginning to speed up as anticipation filled him. I have to see what she was hiding beneath her clothes.

Do it, his wolf urged. She’s our mate, it’s our right.

He pulled back the sheet, she shivered slightly in response as cold air wisped over her skin but she didn’t wake. The sight of her exposed body caused Ryan’s mouth to dry. The peach chemise bared her legs and arms and made her skin seem edible. Her body was perfect, all welcoming curves that he could easily get lost in instead of the harsh angles that he had seen on so many women today. Soon seeing wasn’t enough. He had to touch her, learn her body through contact. His hands fell to her legs, gently skimming the flesh. He could feel his body stirring with interest at the smoothness of her skin but pushed the urges from the front of his thoughts as he continued his exploration. He travelled up the length of her legs, noting with excitement that they could easily wrap around his waist when he inevitable settled beneath her thighs. His hands rested for a moment on her flared hips, his thumbs gently caressing the silky skin. His fingers crept to the curve of her stomach but stopped as indecision rose within him.

Do it, his wolf urged.

There are limits to how far a person should go. She’s unconscious, vulnerable, I shouldn’t even have done this much.

But you know you enjoyed it. Finish exploring her.

His hands were desperate to caress the soft globes of her firm breasts but he pulled away. I can’t. When she wakes, when she wakes things will be different. He stated resolutely trying to pacify his wolf’s request. He pulled the chemise back down but couldn’t resist running the backs of his fingers against the swell of her breasts. Perfect, he groaned. Just like I knew they would be. She’ll forgive me this small sin in time. I’m sure of it. I didn’t do anything too inappropriate, a passing touch that’s all.

His gaze rose from her body to rest on her face and he smiled softly, immensely pleased with what he saw. Now that she wasn’t hunched over a desk, he could take in her small nose, high cheeks and full lips. His ran his thumb lingeringly over her bottom lip and because he couldn’t resist the temptation, he lowered his head and pressed a kiss against her mouth. While his investigations had failed to rouse her, his kiss dragged her into full wakefulness. Her eyes opened, long golden lashes rising as her gaze locked with his finally revealing the colour that had continued to elude him. He immediately felt himself falling into the swirling violet depths. I’ve never seen eyes like this. He smiled. But it only makes sense, she’s my mate after all, she should be unique.

Chapter Three

There was a strange man in her house, practically in her bed and he was kissing her. The thoughts came thick and fast to Chloe as she woke, her mind processing the information quickly. His lips against her own were soft and the feeling he was eliciting within her body was amazing. She felt as though her body was on fire and he was the spark that had caused the inferno running through her veins. Perhaps that was why it took her a moment to remember that she didn’t know this man and she didn’t know what his intentions were. He could be planning to rape you and you’re just lying here accepting his advances? Her voice was sharp as she scolded herself. Get a grip! Her hands rose to his chest and resisting the inexplicably strong urge to run her fingers over him, she pushed him away with all her strength. He was unmoved by her protest, his lips still pressed firmly against hers. Of his own volition he stood up and took a step back. It was only then that she realised that she was uncovered and her body was laid bare for his scrutiny. She squealed, shocked, reaching for the disregarded sheet and pulling it towards herself.

Now that she was sufficiently shielded from the stranger’s gaze, Chloe took the time to peruse the body of the man who had broken into her house. Her eyes assessing him for any weaknesses that might allow her to overpower him should the situation arise. He was very tall, taller than her brothers and her father. It was slightly intimidating but she refused to let him see that. His hair was a deep shade of red, streaked in places with strands of dark brown; it was messy, the strands falling haphazardly around his face stopping just above his shoulders. It seemed impossible to determine exactly how old the stranger was but she continued her perusal nonetheless. He was broad shouldered, with thickly muscled arms and from what she could see from the outline of his legs, muscle covered the length of his body. His mouth was full, sensual, promising deliciously wicked things. A blush rose to her cheeks as she remembered the heated feel of his mouth against her own. Their gazes finally met and she instantly felt herself falling into his brown eyes. When she had first seen them they seemed to look like melted chocolate but now they seemed closer to the colour of honey. She continued to stare at him for a few moments, entranced by his presence, before her wits returned to her.

Who the hell are you and what are you doing in my house? she demanded imperiously. Her normally gentle voice was hard but she pushed away any misgivings she might have had. She had not invited this man in; he had committed a crime and assaulted her person.

The sound of her voice, even when angry, was music to his ears and Ryan did his best to savour it. Her questions continued and he remained silent, simply content to stare at her and take in the sight of her but as her scent began to be permeated by fear he decided to answer her questions. My name is Ryan. What’s yours?

Why should it matter to you? I want you to leave.

No. What’s your name? He walked forward, sat on the bed and placed a restraining arm around her waist. Tell me your name, he commanded.

Chloe, she gulped, increasingly afraid of the man holding her. What does he want? The heat from his body was blistering and she began trying to pull away, his grip tightened, easily restraining her.

Chloe, he repeated, testing the sound of her name on his tongue. As he had suspected it would, it felt perfect. It’s a beautiful name love.

Now that I’ve told you, will you leave?

No. I’m here for something.

Anxious to be free from him, she told him what she thought he wanted to hear. You can take whatever you want, just don’t hurt me.

I don’t want things, he stated forcefully. And I would never hurt you. I only came here because of you, I’m here to claim you.

Me? she questioned confused. What the hell do you want with me?

You’re my mate, I want you to come back with me.

Mate? Your people? What the hell are you talking about?

I’m a werewolf. You’re my mate. I want you to come with me so that I can claim you and we can begin our life together.

Her brows rose mockingly. Werewolf? He nodded in agreement and she burst out laughing. Oh my god you had me really scared there for a second. Which one of them set you up to do this? Was it my father? One of my brothers? Which one? Jonathan? Daniel? Christian? Come on you can tell me. When I next see those guys, I’m going to give them the longest lecture in the history of the world. I knew they were against me moving out, but hiring someone to break into my apartment is a bit much don’t you think?

Chloe, I don’t understand. No one has set me up to this. I’m here because I scented you and knew you were my mate. I’m here to collect you.

His tone was serious and her laughter died. Nobody sent you?

If you want to be pedantic then Sebastian, my twin, sent me. Well, to this city anyway. I was on my way home when I scented you. I’ll thank him the next time I see him. I don’t know any of the people you were talking about.

So you broke into my house of your own accord?

Yes.

You broke into my house, looked at me when I was basically undressed and kissed me?

He was fast becoming confused with his females line of thought, hadn’t he already agreed that he had done so? Yes Chloe, I did.

Oh, she replied inanely before taking a deep breath and screaming for all she was worth.

The loud sound grated on his ears and Ryan moved quickly to silence her, pulling her across his legs and placing a firm hand against her mouth. He felt the sharp sting of her teeth as she bit him hard, trying to get him to remove his hand but he didn’t move. Chloe don’t fight me.

Like hell would I not fight you. Her mind muttered rebelliously.

If I take my hand away will you promise not to scream? His voice was calm as though her teeth didn’t have a death grip on the skin of his palm. She nodded meekly, all the while planning to go against his order as soon as she was free. Chloe, his voice rumbled through his chest angrily. Don’t lie. I can smell it all over you. I don’t like it. Mates don’t willingly lie to each other. Now I ask you again, will you scream?

How did he know? Her mind demanded, her gaze riveted to his face. Maybe I can persuade him to leave. He hasn’t done anything to hurt me yet. Maybe I can talk him into just leaving. She shook her head and his hand left her mouth.

She tried to pull away from his grip but he was too strong and wouldn’t let her leave the seat he had made for her on his lap. She sighed, resigning herself to being there. He examined his hand for a moment and she smiled in satisfaction when she saw the deep indents her teeth had made in his skin. The smug feeling was short lived as she watched in shocked horror as the skin filled out within seconds and was soon as perfect as it had been before she had bitten him.

Her intention of convincing him to leave never even got off the ground as Ryan began questioning her. Chloe love, why, when I told you what I am, did you think that I’d been hired by a member of your family? Remember to answer me honestly, I can tell if you lie and like I said I don’t like it.

She gulped, her mind vacillating between lying and telling the truth. After taking another glance at his powerful body she decided that she should tell the truth. There was no way she could be sure that he couldn’t tell if she were lying, many people made their professions out of being able to do just that. She decided that under the circumstances her family would want her to put her own safety before the need to give them their privacy. My family are obsessed with werewolves, she admitted quietly. "They used to try and convince me that they were real, play tricks on me and the like. I thought they had grown out of it because they stopped asking me to believe them. They go on their hunting trips, just the four of them, looking for werewolves, when it’s obvious to anyone with a brain that they don’t exist. They know I think it’s ridiculous but they go anyway, for days at a time sometimes and that’s fine.