Wicked After Dark: 20 Steamy Paranormal Tales of Dragons, Vampires, Werewolves, Shifters, Witches, Angels, Demons, Fey, and More

by Mina Carter

  She crouched low to the ground and reached deeper into the creature’s mind. A sudden sharp pain struck her skull. She let her breath out with a hiss. Damn. Jeremy had powerful safeguards protecting his mind. Once more, she waited. But still, there was nothing. “What the hell ever.” She shook her head. “I don’t have time to play hide and seek with a sissy. If you’re going to hide, you’ll have to find someone else to kill you.”

  Just then, she realized what it was waiting for. It was a trap. But not for her. The vampire was waiting for Joseph to rush to her defense. She stood up to full height and took a step back, intending to appear as if she were going to turn and walk away. Just then, she felt a shift in the atmosphere as a gust of icy, rancid air rushed past her. She stopped and crouched. Something felt wrong about Jeremy. He was way too powerful.

  Hissing, Jeremy burst out of the shadows and leapt at her. Mia jumped out of the way. But he managed to rake his claws across her cheek. Ignoring the pain and keeping her wits, she positioned herself so she could see the vampire as well as the area where the shadow-dog was hiding behind the car.

  Mia felt Jeremy studying the barrier in her mind. She was shocked she was able to easily hear his thoughts, but she was more shocked by what he was thinking. He knew she was lycan and was waiting for her to switch forms. That was crazy. How did everyone know she was a werewolf before she did?

  “Where is your mate?” He seemed to study the area thoroughly. She felt him reaching out with his mind, attempting to pinpoint Joseph’s location.

  “Who?”

  He slowly moved closer. “Your mate. The demon that helped Jake Mann escape, the one that has been hunting me.”

  Mia vision blurred but only slightly. She blinked to refocus her eyes. That was weird. “A demon? Like with horns and a pitchfork?” She shrugged as if she didn’t have a care in the world. “Don’t know what you’re talking about. And I definitely wouldn’t trust one of the sneaky bastards enough to be my mate or to go hunting with one.”

  “You think this is funny? You can’t lie to me. His stench is all over you.” He took a step toward her. “Call him to you.”

  Even if she could reach Joseph, no way in hell was she going to call him now. Something was seriously wrong, and she needed to figure it out. Why would a vampire want to tangle with a demon? Obviously, he wasn’t afraid of Joseph, and that was a bad sign. Since she’d learned what Joseph was she’d never seen a vampire that didn’t try to run from him.

  “Yeah.” She shook her head. “I think not. If you’re hell-bent on playing with a demon, call one yourself.”

  The vampire advanced slowly. “Call him to you, or you will die slowly, painfully.” He’d dropped his voice.

  She lifted her chin. “No.”

  She heard a strange buzzing in her head. She knew he was trying to use a compulsion on her, and that truly pissed her off. Then, arms outstretched as if in invitation to embrace him, he moved toward her. “It’s your lucky day. I think before I kill you I will have a little recreation time with your body.”

  “Lucky? Please. Obviously you haven’t bothered to look in a mirror lately.” She took a step back. “It’s definitely not happening.”

  He moved again. “Call the demon to you.” But this time he moved, and his image was a black blur.

  “No.” He was in her face, drooling and sniffing, the foul odor of his breath causing her to gag. She really wished she weren’t able to hear the vampire’s nasty thoughts when he breathed in through his nose, filling his lungs with her scent as his gazed locked onto her pulse.

  “You wish to die with more agony.”

  “Not today.” The stench of his breath made her gag. “Ugh. Gross.” She tried to kick him in the groin, but he managed to block it. “Just get the hell away from me and stay away, you nasty freak.”

  “There’s no use in stalling.”

  She sensed he was the one stalling. He didn’t plan to kill her. Not yet anyways. He believed that he needed her to lure Joseph to him. She stepped back. She couldn’t allow him to get that close to her again.

  “How the hell do you smell a demon on me? You smell like a pile of shit.” She smirked. “And I mean literally. Definitely not figuratively. What the hell do you do, roll around in it like a damn dog?”

  * * *

  When Joseph returned to the current time, he decided to take a bit of a detour rather than head straight to Mia’s home. He hadn’t yet found where Eli and his pack were camping, so he decided to search for them. In his wake, great gust of wind brutally pushed through the trees and snapped limbs. The setting sun caused the billowing storm clouds in the western horizon to look like a swirling caldron of steel as he moved across the sky in the form of the dragon.

  Mia had made Joseph’s world right after he’d come to the conclusion that nothing could ever be right again. She didn’t know how deep his feelings for her were. She most certainly didn’t know he planned to kill Eli to keep her. She wouldn’t believe it anyways. She didn’t understand that she’d given him a reason to live again. He’d been lost before he found her.

  From the moment they’d met, Joseph knew Mia didn’t belong to him. And yet, he was powerfully drawn to her. It didn’t matter that Eli could quite possibly be her rightful mate. It didn’t matter that she might find happiness with Eli. Joseph would never allow another male to take her away from him. No matter the cost, he would fight any battle to hold onto her love.

  It didn’t matter that she wasn’t truly destined to be his. He belonged to her. She owned his heart and soul. Despite knowing Mia wasn’t his true mate, he no longer cared to look. He no longer hoped to find that special someone. She was all that mattered to him.

  Lightning erupted, causing the billowing clouds above him to look like a swirling inferno. He caught a glimpse of movement. His heart pumped liquid fire through his massive body so that his eyes were fiery red in the darkness as he scanned the forest far below him.

  Hatred for Eli had been churning in Joseph for too long. It was growing in him and stirring to life the dark, merciless killer in him. A small part of Joseph knew he should care about honor. He should allow what was meant to be to be. He should feel some form of guilt for keeping the truth from the woman he loved. Killing Eli was wrong. None of Joseph’s kind would stand by his side. Most would condemn him. But he didn’t care.

  Moving too quickly for the human eye to see his descent, he tucked his wings close to his body and swooped down to glide just a few inches above the dense canopy of trees. And then out of nowhere, the poison he’d injected into his body hit him hard.

  Every muscle in his body cramped. The pain was excruciating. He felt his mind fragmenting, threatening to shut down to escape the pain. It took every ounce of his strength to remain conscious as the poison spread throughout his body.

  He felt the dragon rise to fight it even as he crashed to the ground. It was a violent battle. Every muscle in his body burned. His bones burned. His flesh felt as if it were being shredded. He couldn’t believe a young child, his woman, had been forced to endure such pain. Even as he suffered the same agonizing pain, he wept for her.

  Sprawled out on the forest floor, his body covered with sweat, he felt an uneasy sensation, a premonition of danger. Mia was in serious trouble. He fought to remain conscious. He tried to get up, but he was paralyzed. His heart thundered as he sorted through Mia’s thoughts. He took more time than usual. But he stayed connected and gathered the information slowly.

  Why didn’t you call me to you, Mia? What the hell were you thinking?

  What the hell are you talking about? I tried to call you. But no worries. Everything is fine now. I’m just having a few words with an unpleasant son of a bitch. Mia’s tone changed from cocky to concerned. You’re hurt, Joseph.

  Damn it, Mia. He was mad but not at her. What pissed him off was that she had called out to him and he hadn’t heard her. I can’t get to you. Why the fuck did you leave your room?

  I didn’t know I wasn’t allow
ed to leave. He called my phone and sounded like Julie. Can you tell if she’s okay?

  She’s sleeping. She’s fine.

  You’re hurt, Joseph. He felt her attempting to search for the source of his pain. What happened? What’s wrong with you?

  Damn it, I can’t get to you.

  It’s okay. Just take care of yourself. There’s no need for you to come here. I have the situation entirely under control.

  Her love for him gave him strength. His need to protect her gave him strength. He got to his knees. The quickest route was to move through time and space, but he knew the poison had made his powers unpredictable. He couldn’t risk getting trapped somewhere else and not being able to help her. He tried to reach for another of his kind, but there was nothing. A vampire can change his voice to sound like someone else. You would’ve known what was happening if you hadn’t been sleeping so soundly. He’d never felt such guilt. She would’ve known it was a vampire disguising his voice on the phone if he hadn’t used a spell to put her into a deep sleep.

  Through her eyes, Joseph saw everything, but he couldn’t do anything.

  Fangs exposed, Jeremy inched closer to Mia. “You prefer to die before he gets here? That’s fine. He’ll come whether you call him or not when he feels your flesh being ripped from your bones.”

  “You know, to be entirely honest, I’m not liking that idea all that much. In fact, surprise, surprise, I’m not liking it at all.”

  Jeremy smiled widely, revealing his saw-like teeth and bloodstained fangs. “You have spunk.” He arched his eyebrow. “I like a spunky woman.”

  Joseph stood up. He took a step and fell to his knees. He’d never experienced the depth of the desperation he felt in that moment. His heart was pounding. His body was trembling with rage. He was going to enjoy killing the vampire.

  “Spunk? Nope. No spunk here. Rage. Yep. That’s it. At the moment I’m feeling homicidal rage. I’m thinking about how wonderful it will feel to kill you.” Mia gave Jeremy a mock sympathetic frown. “I’m sorry, but begging for mercy would be a huge waste of time. You need to die. It’s for the best. It’s the only way to end the suffering of your miserable existence. I don’t see any other option.”

  Joseph knew her thoughts were racing as she tried to figure out the best way to deal with the vampire. She actually believed the vampire could hurt him because she felt his weakness. She was trying to figure out a way to prevent Joseph from rushing into a trap. Worse, she believed it was all her fault.

  “You think you can kill me.” Jeremy laughed.

  “I don’t think I can, I know I can.” She smirked. “And I will.”

  Joseph was proud of her. She was scared but refused to show it. She believed that if she kept the vampire talking she might be able to figure a way to get out of the mess and get to Joseph to help him. She wasn’t even considering her own well-being.

  Joseph got to his feet. I need you to do something that won’t be easy for you, angel.

  What?

  Stop trying to piss him off.

  What the hell would you like me to do, Joseph? Make friends with him?

  Flatter him.

  I was kidding. You’ve completely lost your fucking mind if you think I’m going to make nice with a vampire.

  Do it. Please. Buy me some time to get to you.

  No. Wait, Joseph, this is a trap. He wants you to come. And I know something is wrong. You’re injured. I feel it. You’re in pain, terrible pain.

  “This is an interesting development.” Narrowing his gaze on her, Jeremy rubbed his chin, “I’ve never seen a woman actually feel the need to protect a demon.”

  “Actually, I just don’t see any need for him to waste his time screwing with such a pathetic loser.”

  I will never be unable to get to you. And when I said flatter him I wasn’t meaning for you to call him hurtful, unpleasant names. Joseph knew she was afraid because of the vampire getting into her mind—it was the first time one had ever succeeded in breaching the barriers that always protected her—but she was more afraid because the vampire wanted to face Joseph.

  “Are you going to do something other than stand here and waste my time?” Joseph couldn’t believe she was purposely pissing Jeremy off. Life would be much easier if she’d learn to be afraid. Locking her away somewhere safe seemed the best plan.

  Just as fast as Joseph felt the poison overcome him, he felt his power and strength return, and he sent it to her to stop the vampire from touching her. You’re getting one hell of a spanking, Mia. He’s dangerous. Stop provoking the son of a bitch.

  All at once the ground shook, lightning streaked across the sky, and thunder exploded.

  “Do you see what you’ve done? He’s really pissed off.” Mia smiled at Jeremy. “I tried to keep him out of our little squabble, but you just had to provoke him.” She shrugged. “You should probably go back into hiding real quick before he gets here.”

  Joseph knew she was waiting for the vampire to respond. He also knew it wouldn’t, since he’d paralyzed the vampire.

  She stepped closer and waved her hand in his face. “Hello.” She grinned. I don’t know how you did it, but it’s cool. I love it, Joseph. What did you do to him?

  He was a problem. When there’s a problem, I solve it. I can’t believe you were planning to face him alone rather than wait for me.

  Mia laughed out loud. Can I help it if I feel the need to protect the weak and helpless?

  You’re one damn naughty woman. And mean. You’re mean as hell, Mia.

  Well, I hope you’re not trying to say you’re perfect, because you aren’t. You make me crazy mad all the time. The warmth in her voice caused his stomach to flutter. She couldn’t hide the love she had for him even if she wanted to. And Joseph, it’s not that I can’t hide the love I feel for you, it’s that I don’t want to.

  He smiled. Just keep looking at him. He felt better knowing he’d taken control of the vampire, but he didn’t slow down or risk a separation by moving through time and space. Not even for an instant. I know you’re just a girl, but don’t get scared and close your eyes. You’re really helping me keep control of him. Yes, he was teasing her—though he wished she would gain a healthy fear of the darker side. He was still several miles away, and though he was moving as quickly as possible, it wasn’t quick enough for his liking.

  You don’t really think I‘m going to … I mean, no problem. I was just thinking how nice it is to actually have a good-looking man to gawk at. Don’t worry. I’ve no plans of denying my eyes such a fabulous treat.

  Now you decide to flatter him. The soft sound of her giggle and taunting words caused him to smile. You’re pure wickedness, Mia. Her laughter embraced him. It filled him with joy like nothing else could.

  Joseph, he’s different. It’s a trap. He wanted you to come all along. Are you sure Julie is safe?

  Julie is safe. You know that as long as she lives with Brianna, her home is protected by Nikolas. He’s never more than ten feet away from Brianna. Nothing could get inside to harm them. He could tell by the sound of her voice that she was being totally serious now. She was worried.

  Be calm. There’s no reason for a woman to be afraid when she has a man like me to protect her.

  Mia rolled her eyes. I keep telling you, arrogance is a major turn-off for me. And it’s also a good way to get yourself killed.

  I wasn’t bragging. It’s the truth. And I’ve no intention of allowing a vampire to kill me. It’s Jeremy Lang, the one we’ve been hunting since he attacked Lee Anne.

  Duh. I figured it out. He wanted you to come. This was planned. I think this is a trap. I think there are more of them. They’re hiding. I can feel them. Joseph could sense her worry—if he were hurt because of her actions, she would never be able to live with herself. And he was able to get into my head. They’ve never been able to influence my thoughts before.

  Joseph smiled. It was good they knew he was united with Mia. Do you seriously doubt my ability to take care of a vamp
ire? I’m not even there, and he’s under my control. Don’t worry about me. I can handle them.

  Wait. Oh, shit. Oh, shit. Something is really wrong, Joseph.

  He was already searching for the source of her distress. When he realized he could no longer see the vampire, fear nearly caused his heart to burst.

  My eyes. My vision is getting … oh, shit. I can’t see a damn thing. Oh, shit. Can you still see him?

  Yes.

  Seriously? You’re going to lie now? She shook her head. Do you really think I can’t tell you’re freaking out when we’re merged like this? For being a demon you’re a terrible liar. Add to that you’re a lousy stalker, and it’s not a very appealing resume.

  Good thing you already know I‘m the right demon to get the job done. Joseph knew the vampire was nearly free and close to getting beyond the barrier of protection surrounding her. Stay calm. Your fear will strengthen him. I’m working on reversing whatever he’s doing.

  Whatever? You don’t know? And you’re admitting it?

  Don’t be afraid. I know everything. I was just making sure you were paying attention. Joseph made sure she felt the heat of his breath on the back of her neck, made sure her body was set ablaze by it. He wanted her to feel as if she could simply collapse and his arms would catch her.

  She closed her eyes and took a deep breath. I hate when you pretend to be with me when you’re not.

  You cannot lie to me. You love the way your body responds to the thought of me touching you.

  The thought of you touching me irritates the hell out of me.

  That’s not what you were saying when you wrapped your legs around me. I know what your problem is.

  Do you?

  Yep. I’m sexy as hell, and you want me. Admit it. You want me bad. Real bad. Once it’s out you’ll feel much better. Lust deepened his voice.

  If this vampire doesn’t kill me, I’m going to kill you, Joseph. She couldn’t hide the truth from him … They both knew he was trying to distract her, comfort her. I can’t believe you’re trying to make me feel all warm and fuzzy just before a vampire kills me. You’re an ass, Joseph. A big, fat ass.