by Beverly Rae
Ranlon shook his head at Max, his brow furrowed. “Yes and no. I get a vibe from her, but I feel like something’s missing. Like she could be my future mate, but isn’t. I don’t know how to explain it.”
The men remained silent, thinking about what he’d said. Finally, Jimmy broke the quiet. “You always were a weird one, Ranlon.” Jimmy dodged Ranlon’s quick swipe and hurried out of the bathroom.
“Now all you have to do, Max, is convince Cally.” Nick ran a hand through his red hair and shoved Ranlon aside so he could study his reflection in the mirror.
“That and tell her what you are.” William growled as Nick attempted to push him aside and failed.
“Yeah. I can’t wait to help her go through the first transformation. You know. After Sara and Michael give the go-ahead, of course.” Max glanced down the narrow hallway to where the girls waited for them in the living room. “But there’s time enough. And as far as Sara goes, I’m sure she’ll like her.”
“I hope so, man.” Nick shoved his shoulder, pushing Max farther into the hallway. “If not, you’re screwed.” He lifted his hand, his index finger pointing up, and made a funny face. “Oh, wait. You just were.”
Max laughed along with the joke then, following the rest of them, headed back to the girls. His body ached for Cally all over again, confirming what he already knew. She was his mate.
Cally and Roxy stood by the front door, their heads together as they talked in low tones. If he shifted, he could hear what they were saying, but that seemed like an invasion of privacy.
Her doe-like eyes latched onto him, sending a message to his shaft. God, how he wanted her. He gave her a grin he hoped would melt her knees. I wonder if I can convince her to let me come home with her and have her to myself. Tonight, tomorrow morning, and from now on.
“I’ve got to get home.” Cally took Roxy’s hand. “I’ll see you tomorrow, right?”
“You bet. Back at the club and dancing another night away.” Roxy gave her a hug then stepped out of the way.
Cally inclined her head toward the men. “Uh, I had fun. Maybe I’ll see you guys at the club again?”
“You can count on it. Right, Max?” Nick elbowed Max. “Why don’t you walk Cally to her car while the rest of us help Roxy straighten up?”
“Straighten up? We didn’t really make much of a mess. So I don’t think—” Awareness struck Roxy, who shut her mouth faster than a trap over a mouse. “Oh, yeah. Sure. How about everyone grab a bottle or two to dump in the recycle bin?” She winked at Cally, then at Max. “Goodnight. I hope we see you again real soon.”
Roxy and the other men moved away, leaving Max alone with Cally. Feeling like a schoolboy on his first date, he opened the door for her. She stepped into the darkness, the sweltering weather giving off a mere fraction of the heat the lust-filled fire burning in his abdomen gave him. He followed her, picking up his pace so he could walk beside her.
“Kind of a strange night, huh?” He grimaced and hoped she wouldn’t take his question the wrong way.
“Yeah. Kind of.” She hurried to her car then beeped the locks open. “Listen, I hope you don’t think I do this kind of thing all the time. Or that it’s a regular thing with the girls at Sadie’s.”
Her oval face shone like a pretty moon in the darkness. Long eyelashes highlighted her beautiful eyes while the slight warm breeze floated her hair around her head like a halo around an angel.
“Of course I don’t. Sometimes a person just has to listen to their gut and go with what feels right. This felt right to you, didn’t it?” Damn, please let her say yes.
Her pink mouth called to him and it took everything in his power to keep from kissing her. But he had to hear her answer first.
“Yeah, it did. Especially…” She let her sentence trail off.
Especially what? Especially since I was part of it? He wanted to ask but didn’t want to push. Take your time. Don’t scare her off.
“Would you like me to see you home?”
She seemed startled at his question. “Oh. Uh, no thanks. I’m good. In fact, I’d better be getting on.”
She put her hands on his shoulders and he almost lost control. But throwing her to the ground wouldn’t work. Not yet, anyway. Instead, he stood still and waited.
Her kiss, so different than any he’d ever had, brushed his lips. He clenched his fists, holding back his urge to grab the back of her neck and crush his mouth to hers. Yet when her tongue skimmed between his lips, he couldn’t restrain himself any more than he could’ve kept the moon from rising.
Taking her by the neck, he wrapped his arm around her waist and brought her to him. The kiss was hard, needy, and, for a moment, he feared he was too rough. But his worry faded when she kissed him back with equal fervor. She took hold of the loops in his jeans and yanked him against her.
Their tongues mingled as he drank in her taste. She was sweet and spicy at the same time, reminding him of the night wind against his wolf face as the pack raced under a moonlit sky. She moaned, and he answered with one of his.
She’s the one. My mate. My forever.
Her palms pushing against his chest brought him back to the here and now. “Thanks again for saving me from that jerk earlier, but I really do have to go.”
I’ll always be there for you. Now and until I die. “It’s okay. Maybe we can get together another night?” He could already envision her as part of the pack, a Night Runner keeping stride beside him as they ran over the plains.
“Maybe.” She kissed him again, this time a mere peck on his cheek, then slid into her car. He stepped back as she revved the motor and pulled out of the driveway, leaving a cloud of gravel dust behind.
He sensed William’s approach sooner than he heard his footsteps.
“What happened?”
“Like she said. She had to get home.” Max peered into the darkness, watching until he could no longer see the red glow of her car’s taillights. I’ll see you soon, Cally.
* * * *
Max slipped his arm around Cally and settled into his usual spot on Roxy’s couch. The heat between them was greater than ever, but he gritted his teeth and concentrated on keeping his promise. Cally leaned her head on his shoulder, her gaze on the old black-and-white movie playing on the television set.
Although he would like to take Cally on a real date, somewhere away from Lost Hills, she always asked to go to Roxy’s after her shift. Roxy would chat a little then disappear, leaving the couple alone. As hard as it was—hell, as hard as he was—he’d promised himself to keep their time together sex-free, wanting to spend the time learning as much about her as possible. Of course, kissing and cuddling wasn’t really sex but even doing too much of that made it difficult. Still, he’d enjoyed the past week sitting with her on Roxy’s couch, talking about everything under the sun while watching the old movies she loved.
“I’m glad we could get together again.”
Her gaze met his. “I’m glad you came back into the bar.” She giggled. “In fact, I’m glad you came back every night this week.”
“Where else would I go? Good beer, good music, and a great woman. I’d be a fool not to come back.”
She snuggled against him and the corners of his mouth curved upward into satisfied smile. Her attention returned to the movie. The leading man and woman embraced, professing their undying love.
“Max, do you believe two people can fall in love at first sight?”
He pressed a kiss to her cheek. “Definitely.”
She pushed away from him, her bright eyes shining. “You do?”
“I do. I’ve seen it before. Like with my parents. They took one look at each other and knew. They were inseparable from that minute on.”
A softness came over her face. “Wow. Did they get married? Did they stay together?”
“They did. They were ma—uh, married in less than two weeks and were together for fifty years until my dad died.”
She put a hand on his chest, a now familiar gestu
re that made him feel strong. “I’m sorry about your father. But fifty years? I can only hope.”
He lifted her chin, needing a kiss. Their lips touched, sparking the flame inside him and he could sense an answering flame in her. Skimming his tongue along her mouth, he didn’t dare push his tongue inside. If he did, he wouldn’t be able to stop.
They broke apart, each breathless.
“Are you saying you don’t believe in love at first sight?”
She turned her head away to glance at the television and he held his breath. How could she not believe now that they’d met?
“I didn’t. But now? I think I might.”
He let out a long breath. At least he’d gotten over one obstacle.
“Are you still planning on leaving town?” His heart clenched at the thought. Yet if she did, he’d follow her.
“Where did you hear that?”
“Ranlon heard it from Roxy. She said you wanted to go into Dallas and get a job. To start selling your songs and maybe singing them, too. Is that true?” If she did, would she want him to come along? If she could see inside him, she’d see him offering his heart for her to either keep safe forever or to shatter into a million pieces.
“Oh, that. Yeah. I’m thinking about it.” She settled against him again and he found he could breathe a little easier. “I’d love to make a living as a songwriter more than as a singer. Singers are on the road too much.”
“What’s wrong with being on the road?”
“Nothing, I guess. If you like that kind of life. But I want a family, a home. I like places like Lost Hills. You know, small towns where people know you.”
He winced. Sometimes people knew too much.
“How come I never see you in town, anyway? Or any of the other guys?”
“We prefer to stay on the ranch. You know, what with all the chores and stuff. When we want to have fun, we usually go into Dallas or another city.”
“And now Sadie’s.”
“Yeah. Which was lucky for me. Otherwise, I’d never have met you.”
She tugged playfully at his ear. “And Roxy wouldn’t have met Ranlon.”
Ranlon had dated Roxy a few times, thinking she might be his future mate, but he’d never gotten past the impression that something important was missing from their connection. Max hoped Cally would drop the subject of their friends. Better not to get involved until Ranlon sorted out his feelings.
“Although one of my friends said she saw Jimmy in town the other day. But he only stayed for a few minutes. She said he looked really nervous the whole time he was there. Then he left like he couldn’t get out of town fast enough.”
He shrugged off her curiosity. “Beats me. I don’t keep track of the other guys.” He squeezed her closer. “I hope you get your wish about being a songwriter. From what I’ve heard, I don’t think you’ll have much trouble.”
She gave him one of her smiles that made him feel warm all over. The kind of smile a man would fight heaven and hell for.
“Really? Thanks. I appreciate it.” She played with a strand of his hair. “Let’s hope you’re right.”
“I will be. And I’ll do everything I can to help you.”
She tilted her head to the side. “You mean that, don’t you?”
“Of course I do.”
“But why? You hardly know me.”
“I know you well enough to know I care for you.”
Tears welled in her eyes and she leaned against him, curling her body next to his. They settled into a comfortable silence, letting their bodies, the familiar way they held each other say more than words ever could.
He was happy, pleased things were going so well. But what would she say once he’d told her about the pack? Would that change her mind about settling down? After all, the pack wasn’t a traditional kind of family.
“Cally?” He needed answers.
“Hmm?”
“Why don’t we ever go to your place? I mean, Roxy’s home is nice, but I’d like to see where you live.”
She stiffened, then moved away, ruining the moment they’d shared. “I like it here better.”
“But why?” He grinned, hoping humor would help ease the tension. “You’re not hiding a husband in the attic, are you?”
She didn’t laugh or even smile. “I just like it better here, that’s all.”
He wasn’t ready for the irritation flooding him. “You already said that. But I want to know why. Do you live in a dump? Because if you do, I don’t care. Are you a lousy housekeeper or a hoarder? If so, no problem.”
She rested her back against the arm of the couch and crossed her arms. “No on all counts.”
Crap. He should’ve kept his cool and given her more time. But he couldn’t stop the question from flying out of his mouth. “Then what is it?”
“It is none of your business.” She stood and picked up her purse. “I think it’s time for me to get home.”
He’d pushed her too far and would have to try again another night. Rising, he followed her to his pickup and drove her back to her car in Sadie’s parking lot. She gave him a quick kiss good-bye, hurried to her car, and pulled out of the parking lot.
He frowned and let his truck’s engine idle. “What the hell are you hiding, Cally?”
* * * *
Max sauntered into Sadie’s, whistling one of Cally’s songs. He slid onto his favorite bar stool and set the box filled with a dozen long-stemmed roses on the counter.
“How’re you doing tonight, Max?” Fay slid a rag over the counter in front of him, wiping away the remnants of peanut shells. “The usual?”
“Sure thing.” He lifted his gaze to the mirror behind her and scanned the crowd. “She’s here, right?”
“Yep. She’s helping Sadie right now, but she’ll be back in a bit.” Fay set the bottle of beer in front of him, then rested her elbows on the counter. “Are you two getting together again tonight?” Her gaze drifted to the long box. “Are those flowers?”
He grinned, opting to answer her first question. “I’m hoping I can see her tonight.” After the way their last time together had ended, he wasn’t so sure. Hopefully, the flowers would help smooth her feathers.
Fay touched his hand. “She’s a lucky girl. I wish I had guy like you.”
He slid his hand away from hers. Not that he really thought she was hitting on him, but he didn’t want anyone getting the wrong impression. “You will.”
She took the hint and picked up the empty nut bowl. “Let’s hope you’re right.” She took another longing look at the flower box and moved away to fill a customer’s order.
He took a swig. Why wouldn’t Cally invite him to her house? He swiveled around on the barstool, beer in hand. He wasn’t worried. He’d find out soon enough. Until then, he was content just being with her.
He tapped his foot to the music and scanned the interior of Sadie’s, skimming over the other waitresses until he found her. Her sunshine-colored hair glistened under the lights of the bar as she spoke to a customer and wrote down his order. The shorts she wore accented her shapely bottom, and the green, sparkling top clung to her curves.
Damn, but she’s beautiful. I’m one lucky man.
Not every werewolf’s intended mate was attractive. Good looks weren’t necessary. If they were meant to be together, they’d believe each other desirable no matter what their appearance. For a moment he wondered if it might be better if Cally weren’t so hot. Maybe then the men wouldn’t ogle her so much.
A low growl rumbled in his throat. Take it easy. She doesn’t know what you are. Much less what’s to come. He shifted in his seat and gestured to Fay to pour him another cold one.
“Hey, stranger. Back already?”
Even the sound of her voice made his shaft jerk to life. Turning toward her, he rested his back against the bar and grinned. “Yep. I wanted to hear you sing again.”
“Oh, I’m sorry. I’m not scheduled to sing tonight.” Her brown eyes saddened. “I’m doing only one dance
routine, too. Most of the time I’m waiting on tables.”
“Seems to me they should use the best they’ve got. Your talent’s wasted schlepping beers instead of entertaining.”
She brightened at his compliment. “You’re sweet to say so, but it’s okay. This way all the girls get their time in the spotlight.”
“Girls? What girls? I don’t see anyone but you.” He almost grimaced at the cheesy line even though he’d spoken the truth.
Cally giggled and laid her hand on his shoulder. He jerked at the shock her touch gave him and noticed she’d done the same. They were true mates, no doubt about it.
“Are those for me?” Her gaze slid to the box.
“Who else?” He offered them to her. “I wanted to make up for hassling you about going to your place.”
She pulled the red bow and opened the box. After sniffing the roses, she handed the flowers to Fay, asking her to put them safely under the bar. “No, I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have reacted so badly.”
“Then we’re good?”
“Yeah. We’re good.”
“Great. Then if you’re not doing anything after work, would you like to grab a cup of coffee at the diner?”
He hated going into Lost Hills, but maybe if she got used to going somewhere other than Roxy’s she’d loosen up and take him to her home.
Sheesh, I feel like a lovesick kid. Lovesick, sure. But a kid? Hell no. No kid ever had thoughts like mine. He lingered on her breasts before sliding his gaze down then back up.
She leaned closer to feather a kiss on his cheek. “I’d like to. Really. But I, uh, I can’t.”
He couldn’t have felt worse if she’d kneed him in the balls. “Got a hot date or something?” he joked.
“Kind of.”
What? She couldn’t be serious. Not after the week they’d shared. His mind stalled, unable to think straight. “Are you kidding?”
She darted her gaze to the side as though checking the crowd. “I’m sorry. I just can’t make it tonight.” Music signaled the start of a dance routine. “There’s my cue. I’ll catch you later, okay?” Letting her hand glide down his shoulder, she hurried away.
