Bran (Fae Shifters Book 2)

by M. D. Stewart

  Michael ran his fingertips down Bran’s body. He laid his hand on Bran’s hip, and using his thumb, he traced the mark he’d made centuries ago. “Love is never a bad thing. I told that to Dev before he and Rhys entered their Vibrational Healing with Sienna. Love is the ultimate energy to grow and share. It heals and multiplies.”

  Josie smiled. “It certainly feels good to share and be immersed in it. I’ve never experienced anything like this before because I never recognized energy before. I feel surrounded by something soft and supportive. I feel like I’m wrapped in the softest pink fur. It sort of tickles.” Bran and Michael both laughed as they wrapped their arms around her.

  “Get used to it, sweet girl. Michael and I will take every opportunity to surround you in our energy.”

  Chapter Six

  At dusk, Michael lit a fire in the large pit in the center of the village, a symbol to call to his tribe. In reality, most knew to come because of text messages, but the tribe loved the symbolism of the past. Dozens of people of various ages moved from all over the village to gather at the fire. Many were talking and laughing while children ran between the adults, chasing each other. Even though she didn’t know them, she was comfortable as his people assembled. The tribe seemed so happy as they saw Michael and Bran standing with her. Both of her mates were relaxed as they chatted with each other, waiting for everyone in the village. When everyone was gathered, Michael stepped up on the short platform next to the firepit where he could be easily seen by his tribe.

  “I called you here today to share in some good news.” He reached down and helped Josie to stand next to him then Bran stepped up next to her. “I know most of you remember the King of the Fae, Bran St. Clair.” Many people shouted out greetings to him. Josie looked at her Fae mate when he nodded and smiled in acknowledgment.

  “Bran and I have known each other for centuries. Our people and his have a long history of friendship as well as a connection with his son Chalice, who is my late sister’s son as well. Today I announce another connection that strengthens our ties. This is Josie.” He turned to pull her to stand in front of him, placing his hands on her shoulders. “She is Bran’s, true mate. And mine as well.”

  Josie thought there would be an awkward silence following his announcement. It was still a shock to her to know she was mated to the two men. She was so wrong. The tribe let out whoops of celebration and joy. She turned to Michael and saw his face reflect the happiness of his people. After a few moments, he held up his hand to silence the cheering.

  “I’m sure most of you also know that in the past, Bran and I had participated in two Vibrational Healings. It’s not always the case, but during the first Healing, we bonded. After the sacred circle was taken down, we marked each other as future mates. Today, after centuries of waiting, I get to publicly claim him and Josie as my own.” His people cheered again. Josie felt her face turn pink at the attention she was receiving. She was the plain-looking, pudgy girl who never thought she’d have one gorgeous man. Now she had two.

  The crowd quieted again. “We’ll meet here in an hour to have the formal claiming. As I’m sure you may already have guessed, we have had our own private mating ceremony.” Several men in the crowd whistled and hooted, making Michael smile.

  “Bran brought his mate here because the threat from the rogue Fae destroyed her home and business. He thought he was bringing her here for protection and when she entered through our outer circle early this morning, I sensed her presence. As you can also tell, she’s not shifter or Fae. This mating has combined three circles and I feel it will strengthen us as a tribe.” Many in the crowd nodded in agreement.

  “Bran and I will be training her how to access her soul powers so I will be living in the Crystal Cave for an undetermined amount of time. My grandchildren will step forward.”

  Josie noticed several young people come toward the platform. They were grinning from ear to ear as they each stepped up on the platform to hug Michael. They looked like teenagers, but she knew they were much older than they appeared. Bran and Michael both looked to be in their thirties but they were six centuries old.

  “Leland, you are the oldest and most advanced in shifter magic, healing, and knowledge, so I will be passing the Claw of Power to you after the mate claiming tonight.” Michael turned his attention back to the tribe. “Please join us later to celebrate my double good fortune and the end of my lonely existence.”

  The crowd broke up, most coming to the platform to offer congratulations. Leland smiled at Josie as he took her hand, helping her down from the stand. “I’m so happy for you. You are so lucky to have met your soulmates. I know you will live a life full of love.” He kissed both of her cheeks before hugging Bran. “Does your family know about any of this yet?” Bran smiled.

  “I texted Dev and Sienna. They’re coming to the claiming and he made sure to pass the info along. I think Chalice will be coming too.”

  Leland laughed. “I bet that isn’t strange for him. His old man and uncle are now mates. Sounds like a bad television talk show episode.”

  Bran shook his head and clapped the young man on the shoulder. “At his age, which isn’t much younger than me, I think he’s going to be all right with it. He’ll just be happy I’ve found my mate. I only wish he could find his.”

  “Is it as wonderful as I’ve heard?” Leland smiled but he still radiated loneliness. Josie could tell he envied them their connection. Now that she knew the joy in mating, she realized what she had missed her entire life. She’d never felt so alive and complete.

  “Yes. It’s more than even I understood it to be. I never knew how empty I felt until I met Josie. I loved him, but Michael and I weren’t true mates. Josie is the missing link between us. She has a connection with me and with him.” Bran looked at her like she was a miracle, and she felt special if for no other reason than to finally bring him and Michael together.

  “I wonder if that’s why you and he had that initial attraction and bonding. You each shared a part of your souls with a third. It would make it easier for two alpha males and leaders to accept each other if you already loved one another when your shared mate came along. You obviously loved each other enough to mark each other.” Michael had come over to the conversation and looked thoughtful at his grandson’s words. “Your souls recognized each other long before Josie was even created or born. You three must possess extreme magic together. I know you are both adept at magic, but I’d be happy to help in Josie’s training in any way.”

  Josie looked to Michael, who seemed exceedingly proud of his grandson. “I am honored, Leland. You are one of the most powerful shifters of your generation. Hell, even going back to mine. I will let you know if you’re needed. I appreciate it.” He pulled his grandson in for a back-pounding hug. “Now, help your cousins get the food out here for the celebration.”

  The tribe worked together and brought dish after dish of food to place on tables that had been put near the firepit. She’d never seen so many beautiful people in one place. Tall, fit and long gorgeous hair on every person in sight. How they whipped up food that fast, she’d never know. And every person she talked to was so happy for her, Bran, and Michael. It made her glad she left her world behind to live in this one.

  She heard happy voices and turned to see two men and a woman walking into camp with Bran striding toward them. One man had hazel eyes and long wavy hair that fell to his waist and the other with emerald green eyes and dark hair that reached his shoulders. The woman was shorter and curvy with long thick hair and a ready smile. After releasing the couple, Bran grabbed the second man and hugged him as well. They walked with him toward her when she realized the two men looked very similar to Bran.

  “Josie, I’d like you to meet two of my sons. This is Chalice, and this is Devitt with his true mate Sienna.” Nerves struck her at meeting Bran’s oldest and youngest children, but she took a breath and reached out her hand. Chalice grinned as he pulled her in for a hug.

  “I never thought I�
�d see the day when dad would find his true mate. I’m happy for you both.” Michael moved into her sight, a grin on his face. “Well, I mean I’m happy for all three of you. Although, family reunions will be a little strange. Do I call you Uncle Stepdad?” Bran and Michael laughed as Michael pulled his nephew in for a hug.

  “Still the troublemaker I see.” But Michael was still laughing as he cupped his nephew’s face. “Brat.”

  Josie took time to shake Sienna’s hand. “I’m glad to meet you. I’d love to talk to you about how you adjusted to being ‘normal’ then magical. I’m more than a little intimidated.”

  Sienna rolled her eyes but smiled. “Honestly, let them take the lead and trust them. It takes time to remember you can do magic.” She hooked her arm through Josie’s and moved away a bit to let the men talk. “I’m so sorry about your home and the bar. Part of this falls on me and Dev. It was the family that tried to destroy us that escaped and attacked you. Dev killed Mori’s sister Marinda when she and her rogue guards attacked us. We’re still looking for Rhys too.” Josie could sense the sadness and worry in the woman.

  “He was Dev’s friend and guard, wasn’t he? I think Bran said they performed a Vibrational Healing with you. I’m sure it deepened their bond. I can’t imagine what you two are going through with him missing. I’m so sorry.” When Sienna nodded, Josie noticed the tears threatening to fall. “Sienna, this is in no way your fault. Mori is unbalanced and obsessed. She made the decision to blow up my house. If Bran hadn’t acted on his instincts,” she let her voice trail off as she shook her head.

  “Let’s just enjoy this night.” Sienna forced a smile. “I’m looking forward to seeing the claiming and knowing Bran is happy. Michael is someone I met a few times but I don’t know him that well, but I know Chalice and he’s a great guy. He’s helped me so much with my training. So has Leland when he comes to visit his cousin. Those two are full of mischief.” Sienna laughed, drawing the attention of several people.

  “Oh, I look forward to hearing those stories when we come to the Fae realm.” Josie grinned as she imagined what Bran and Michael’s family could get into. She looked forward to seeing what mischief Bran and Michael could get her into. “I’m a little nervous. I’m not sure what happens during the claiming. I know Michael said he and Bran would help me find a way to mark them. I’m not Fae or shifter so I don’t have fangs.”

  Sienna smiled, showing small fangs. “I developed my own set rather unexpectedly. My grandfather is full Fae but I haven’t had any Fae traits until I mated Dev. They take some getting used to, but they are a lot of fun once you do.” Sienna wiggled her eyebrows and Josie grinned in response.

  “I look forward to that.”

  “You should. Bloodlust is a real and amazing thing.” Sienna turned when she heard Dev call her name. “I think they want me to help you get ready. Come on, there’s a cabin where I can help you change into the ceremonial dress.”

  The night had fallen, the fire was mostly embers but the moon was nearly full and bright casting light to the camp. Sienna had helped her put her hair up in a simple French twist. She was overwhelmed with the long Leather dress that was left for her to wear to the ceremony. The top of the dress exposed her neck and shoulders and pushed her breasts high. The sides were laced up to fit her form perfectly and the bodice, and hem were decorated with multi-colored glass beads that caught the light. The skirt fell just to skim the tops of her feet. The time someone spent on making this dress would have been astounding. The fact that it fit her so well amazed her.

  “Thanks for your help, Sienna. I’d never have been able to get in this dress without you.”

  “It’s gorgeous and you look stunning. Michael and Bran are going to trip over their tongues. It shows off your curves perfectly.”

  “That really amazes me. The fact they find me sexy. You know with me being, um, curvy.” Josie ran her hands nervously over her waist and hips, smoothing out imaginary wrinkles.

  “That’s the thing, first they aren’t human and don’t have the same hang-ups humans do. They see you with their soul. And from what Dev told me, most shifters prefer curvy women. They love that we’re soft to complement their hardness.” Both women looked at each other for a moment before giggling at the double entendre. The laughter helped to ease some of Josie’s fear.

  “I’m so nervous. I don’t even know what to expect or if I have to say anything.” Josie bit her lip, hoping she’d not embarrass herself or her mates. A knock on the door drew the women’s attention. Sienna went to see who was there. Chalice came forward and smiled at the women.

  “I get the honor of escorting you to your mates, Josie. You look beautiful, by the way.” It seemed apropos that Bran’s son and Michael’s nephew would take her to them. He was their first connection.

  “Thank you, Chalice. You honor me by doing this. I have no idea what’s going to happen though.” Josie hoped her voice didn’t shake as much as she was.

  Chalice laughed as he took her hand and placed it over his arm. “Well, I think dad and Michael have combined a few traditions of our clan and tribe so it will be unique. I’m not sure what they plan to do exactly. Dad told me you want to mark them in the ceremony. When it comes time, Leland and I will lend you our magic to help you get your fangs. Just follow their lead, Josie. They will never lead you wrong.” Josie thought that advice was for more than just tonight’s ceremony.

  Once they stepped off the porch, he stopped walking and gently spun her to face him. He placed his hands on her shoulders and squeezed lightly. “I know both of them well. I know they will be stubborn at times but they will always put you first and do everything they can to keep you safe. Just overlook the rest and realize they’ve waited six centuries to find you. I’m only fifty years younger than dad and I know how hard it is to live so long without the One who completes you. If they drive you crazy, just take a deep breath and try to remember how much they love you.”

  Josie blinked back the tears that came to her eyes. Chalice was a great man who loved his family fiercely. She respected him for that and knew they’d get along well. She reached up to cup his face. “I will. I hope you find your mate soon, Chalice. Whoever it is, they will be very lucky.” He wrapped his fingers gently around her wrist and brought his lips to her palm.

  “Dad and Michael are the lucky ones.” He smiled when the drums began to play. He turned and resumed walking her to the platform where her mates were waiting. “Stop shaking. You’re already theirs—this is just a formality. It really just gives the tribe a reason to eat, drink and dance. We do love a good party.” His smile put her at ease. “Besides, when Dad and Michael see you they’ll be the ones to forget what they’re supposed to do.” He winked at her as he stepped through the crowd to bring her to the clearing around the platform.

  Josie raised her eyes to where Bran and Michael were standing with Leland. Both men turned to look at her. Bran reached over and placed his hand on Michael’s shoulder as their stunned gazes turned to smiles then desire.

  Michael was shirtless and dressed in tan leather pants decorated with the same color beads as her dress. His waist-length hair was loose with three feathers hanging on a braid on the right side of his head. He wore a necklace with ten long black claws that hung from a leather thong. He looked every bit the proud Native American and it made her heart skip a beat.

  Bran wore a simple white tunic shirt tucked into loose-fitting black pants. The shirt laced up the front but the ties were loose at the top, exposing his throat and upper chest. His hair was gathered in a leather thong at the base of his neck. He looked like a rakish pirate without an eye patch or sword. The thought made her smile.

  Chalice led her to the platform but stopped before climbing the stairs himself. She squeaked in surprise when he bent and picked her up. He carried her up the few steps before setting her carefully on the dais. He kissed her forehead before turning and moving down to join his youngest brother in the crowd.

  Michael smiled at her as
he positioned her to stand between him and Bran. Leland stood in front of the trio, his back to the crowd, with a serious expression on his face. He winked at her before he turned to the audience gathered below them.

  “We are here to join in the celebration of the reunion of souls. True mates are a special bond that many never get to experience, but we all wish to find. This union with two men and one woman gives many of us hope that there are matches for us out there. We can now look for our mates in unconventional ways and know perhaps our mate, or mates, are different from ourselves. We have a non-Fae and non-Shifter as a mate for two leaders of our magical community. It gives the rest of us a better chance to look for and find the other parts of our missing souls. So, we are truly blessed to witness the coming together of such a bond between Josie and her two mates.

  “Michael Mato, Chief and Lead Elder of the Bear Shifter Clan. Bran St. Clair, King of the Fae. You are each charged with caring for your shared mate, Josie Davis. You will each now show the witnesses gathered here your commitment and claim your mate.”

  Michael turned her to face him, a smile on his face. The softness in his eyes didn’t surprise her but did make her heart beat faster. “I, Michael Mato, claim you, Josie Davis, as my mate. In front of these witnesses, I offer you my life. Two souls are now joined.” He bent down and kissed her. She expected a chaste lip-to-lip kiss but was she wrong! Michael’s kiss started off as a sweet, romantic kiss but turned carnal in an instant. His arms wrapped around her, pulling her tightly against him.

  “I love you, Josie.” His erection brushed against her as his tongue invaded her body. He moved from her mouth, trailing his lips down her jaw line to her neck. He licked her skin a second before his teeth pierced her neck at the juncture of her neck and shoulder. Pure pleasure rolled over her. She held him tighter, afraid she’d collapse otherwise.