I didn’t need to. He stalked across the room, pulling me to his body, and crushed his lips against mine. The roughness—intensity—of the kiss robbed me of breath. Any thought of prolonging, or playing, was lost as I sunk against him, and felt myself softening.
I knew when the kiss was over, my lips would be bruised, but it didn’t stop me from parting them and granting him access. My tongue met him half way, eager to move against his and to savor the moment.
Being with Mason was an experience I couldn’t get enough of, and raising my arms, I clenched the back of his shirt, holding on tight. He pressed into me, anchoring me, his muscles bunching until they were hard under my touch.
Suddenly, I needed to feel his skin. Dragging my hands over the material, I slipped underneath, and released a small moan as my fingers felt the heat of his flesh. Mason deepened our kiss, tightening his arm around my waist. I felt my own shirt lifting, and jumped from the electricity that sparked as his nails grazed against me.
“Mason …,” I murmured into his mouth.
He moaned in response, moving his lips to the tender spot below my ear, tracing his tongue in circles. My mind emptied as his warm breath teased, causing goose bumps to erupt, and my stomach to dip.
“Mason ….” I repeated, trying to gather my words.
Ignoring me, he nudged my neck with his nose, inhaling deeply before placing his lips on my skin again. He began to nip, grazing with his teeth, and it sent shoots of pleasure though my body. I would never last to the mating ritual if he kept this up.
“We need to stop, don’t we?” Mason whispered. I rested my head on his chest, and I could feel his heart racing—the pounding matching my own. “I promise you this. We won’t be leaving this room for a week, no, a month, after we’re mated. Every time I touch you, it’s getting harder and harder to pull back. I want you, and it’s a struggle to keep from picking you up right now and throwing you onto my bed. I know Vivien said you had to stay pure, but this is torture.”
I paused, trying to remember the exact words I’d been told during my teens. I hadn’t questioned my mother bringing me into her room, or that the lead witch was there seated on one of the chaises. They’d spent the next hour instilling in me the importance of maintaining my virginity, and why I should wait until I was mated before giving it to a man. The lead witch had spoken of a vision she’d had—of my future where my purity needed to be safeguarded until I’d been joined to my fated mate. I’d blushed a mottled shade of crimson, and vowed to follow their instructions down to the letter. My mother had sat nervously wringing her hands while Vivien made me repeat back everything she’d shared.
I hadn’t even kissed a boy yet, but the idea of something coming in between me and my future husband resonated deeply. I’d seen some unhappy pairings in my parents pack, and the thought I’d have to endure something similar terrified me. I’d given my solemn promise, and had faithfully kept it.
“I’m positive. It was a prophecy she had. ” I watched Mason’s brow wrinkle into a frown. “Why?”
“I was just hoping for some kind of loophole.” He grinned, pulling me in tight. “Needing you to wait a year, before we can perform the mating ritual, as a requirement to join with an Alpha was tough enough. Not being able to have you the way I want is just an extra torture. Have I told you today how impatient I am to have you… all of you… to myself?” He feathered a soft kiss on my forehead. “I always prided myself on having control, but you—you test my limits.”
“Enjoy the anticipation. It won’t be much longer,” I answered softly, stroking the side of his jawline.
“It’s the cold showers I don’t like.” Mason chuckled, pretending to shiver.
“You’re such a baby. I hear it’s good for the soul.”
“I’ll show you what else is good.” He cupped my face, brushing his thumb lightly over my cheekbone. “This.”
Leaning in, he placed the gentlest of touches on my lips. It was like a whisper, and I closed my eyes, releasing a soft sigh. Mason added no pressure—there was no hunger this time. It was slow and careful, a kiss worthy of those found in fairytales.
I was like liquid in his hands, letting him mold me to his body. The way his tongue traced the crease of my mouth was decadent, and as he gradually heightened the kiss to bring more intensity. I held on.
The moment was broken by the vibration against my stomach, followed quickly by the sounds of a generic ringtone.
“What happened to Hungry Like The Wolf?” I asked, stepping away so he could remove the device from his pocket to answer. I’d thought it was cute when I’d uploaded it. It made me laugh every time he had to explain to others it was because he loved Duran Duran.
“I changed it. I got tired of Daniel’s smart ass comments,” Mason answered, and took the call. Taking the opportunity to relax, I sat on his bed and waited to hear the news.
I couldn’t fault the interruption. I knew it was part and parcel of what it meant to be mated to the Alpha, and there would no doubt be more times in the future when he’d be called into business. Watching him run his fingers through his hair, I wondered whether it was about Amber. The call didn’t take long before it was over.
“That was Daniel. People are on their way back, so if we want any more alone time, we might want to go out somewhere. Judging from some of the talk, people are curious about our new house guest, and even though he’s been answering questions, they’ll want to seek me out.”
“We need to stay then. If they need reassurance, or even to hear from you, let’s take care of it.” Offering his hand, I accepted his help to pull me to my feet.
“Can you see why you make the perfect mate? You understand, and think of the pack first. If I’m going to be up talking most of the night, I’m going to call for an official meeting. It’ll help show a united front, and dispel any rumors.”
“Want some help notifying everyone?” I asked, enjoying the last few minutes of being together.
“Yeah, let’s head over to the office. You can use the phone while I use my cell. Between the two of us, it shouldn’t take long.”
We left his room, and walked through the house to his office. Grabbing the list of numbers from the top drawer, I settled into Mason’s chair, and started working my way through the member directory. He was right—it only took ten minutes before everyone was alerted. I relaxed into the comfortable seat, and turned my head to look at him.
“I love you.”
“I love you too, Darcy.” He smiled. Sitting on the edge of the desk, he nodded. “It’s going to be a long night.”
Chapter Seven
Everyone arrived on time, the seats we’d arranged quickly filling. As I glanced around the garden, it was good to see my pack brothers and sisters. I knew it was short notice, but from the look of things, people were eager to find out what was going on. This was a good move on Mason’s part to call for the gathering, and the easiest way to dispel any rumors.
Walking toward the front, Mason stood quietly, waiting for everyone to find their places so he could commence. Daniel made his way through the crowd, and stood beside his friend. When my gaze caught Mason’s, I smiled with encouragement and his face softened for a brief second before returning to one of seriousness.
“Thank you, everyone, for coming at such short notice. I’m hoping this won’t take too long, and we can all get back to our plans for the evening.” He looked over the group. “As most of you may know, or have heard, the Pack has a new guest, and this is the reason why I’ve called the meeting. I wanted to personally share what this means for us, and give you a chance to ask any questions you might have.”
I saw looks of curiosity on people’s faces. Some were making furtive glances around, while others were whispering softly to their neighbors.
“Last night Amber Bracken came to the Mystic Wolves and asked for protection against her father by claiming asylum. I’ve met with the Council, and an investigation has begun into the allegations she placed. Until it’s de
termined she’s safe to return home, the Council has stated she’s to remain here.”
“What were the charges?” a voice called from the back.
“That Michael, Alpha of the Silver Canyon Pack, threatened to harm her if she didn’t complete the task assigned her,” Mason added, and paused to let the statement settle before continuing. “She was to unite the two packs by becoming my mate.”
There was a second of silence before the garden exploded into angry protests and cries of disbelief. Mason stepped forward, his hands held out in the hopes he could calm the crowd.
“Please, everyone.” His request rang through air, loud enough to rise over the noise, trying to regain their attention. “Those are the charges, and will be taken seriously. It’s in the hands of others, so there is little we can do. What’s important is what happens within this pack. I know this news may come as a surprise, but it’s my duty to obey the Council and grant her stay here.”
“That’s insane! How can they make you do that, especially with the history you have with her?” It was an older member who spoke up, and before Mason could answer his question, there was a disruption. Turning to see what the cause was, I was surprised to see Amber coming in at the back of the group. She hadn’t been invited to the meeting because whatever happened within the pack was none of her business.
“You have some nerve coming here. You may think you can work your way back into the good graces of others, but I know you, Amber Bracken. And I haven’t forgotten.” The pack member directed his finger at her, emphasizing his point.
Seeing the potential for trouble, Mason stepped forward and called the meeting to order. “Amber, I don’t believe you were invited to attend tonight. This is a matter for the Mystic Wolves.”
“I understand. I knew I’d face hostility if I came, but I wondered if it may help to be here. I’m sure people will have questions.” She stood her ground, and glanced around the garden. “I’m not here to cause problems. I promise.”
Mason never looked away from her as Daniel whispered something quietly to him. “You may stay on the basis you only answer questions directed to you.” When she nodded, he continued. “Let’s try to keep the volume down, okay?”
“What did she do that was so bad?” Wade asked, raising his voice to be heard. A number of others joined with him, asking the same thing. I was curious to see how Mason would answer because a lot of the past wasn’t common knowledge—his change in personality and love for Amber, yes, but not the attempt to seduce Daniel that lead to betrothal ending.
“Years ago, my father entered an agreement with Amber’s for the two of us to marry. Amber and I started a relationship, and it caused me to act in a way I’m not proud of. I’d like to say I was young and foolish, but it doesn’t excuse it. I made a lot of bad decisions, ones that would’ve affected a lot of people. ”
I could see everyone staring up at him, hanging on his every word. “But that was then—I’m older now and much wiser. I want it to be clear—if there were any other way for the Council to investigate the allegations without Amber staying here, I would do it. Everything is being done to make her visit a short one, so I ask for your patience.”
“So you want us to believe you’re here for no other reason than asylum?” Nathan raised his voice, focusing on Amber as people turned in their seats to hear.
“It’s true, what happened in the past was unforgivable, but I was young.” She lifted herself from her chair so she could address everyone. “I was foolish, and under the order of my father. But I promise you, I haven’t come here to stir contention amongst you, or to cause trouble for Mason. I’m genuinely afraid, and I beg for your mercy. I know I can’t repair the damage of the past, but I’m willing to start rebuilding those bridges I burned.”
Amber’s bottom lip began to quiver, as her eyes filled with tears. She painted an impressive picture of repentance, and I could see certain members start to soften as she retook her seat. Nathan shook his head as though he wasn’t quite sure what to believe, and he wasn’t the only one.
“I won’t order anyone to associate with Amber if they choose not to, but I will ask that we show civility. I don’t anticipate her being here for long, just until she’s able to go back to her own pack safely. Should you have any questions though, please know the doors to my office are always open, and I’ll try to help ease any concerns.”
“I have a question,” April spoke, raising her hand in the air. “What will happen with the mating ritual between you and Darcy? Will the investigation postpone it?”
“No. The mating ritual will still be performed in three weeks,” Mason replied without hesitation. “I believe we’ve all waited long enough for that, don’t you?” Smiling at the crowd, he winked at the young werewolf, causing her to blush and drop her stare to her feet. “This changes nothing for us—our plans are to move forward. We’ll continue to do what we’ve always done… together.”
“Does anyone else have something to add?” Daniel asked, scanning the crowd. His focus rested on me briefly before he continued to look around.
There were some scattered comments—most wanting details from the past, but one stood out.
“What’s Darcy’s opinion?”
“You want to know what I think about this?” I asked.
Holding his hand out to me, Mason invited me come stand beside him, and I thought about how I could answer the question. It seemed like a wave of heads began nodding, as they leaned forward to hear how I’d respond.
“I trust Mason, and I know he’ll do everything in his power to keep us safe. Yes, there’s a history between him and Amber, but it’s also in the past, and we have an amazing future to look forward to. This is definitely awkward, but I hope we can make the best of the situation until everything is resolved.” I tried to make eye contact with each person, wanting them to see I gave my full support to their Alpha, and my future mate. I could sense their worry—emotions were still raw from the death of Jasmine and trouble with Avery. They didn’t want anything else coming in and wreaking havoc.
“So you and Amber are friends?” Stacey asked. I took a step to the side so I could see the young wolf, and chuckled.
“Amber and I have just met, so we have a lot to learn about each other.” I didn’t know how else to answer the question. I didn’t want to lie and pretend we were now soul sisters, but I also didn’t want to share that the mere sight of her made me want to gouge my eyes out. In the end, I gave the best response I could. “I’m willing to try, and I believe she is as well.”
I felt Mason’s hand slide into mine and squeeze. The feel of his touch was comforting, and it also sent a powerful message. We were united, and the pack could continue to place their faith in their leader.
“Any more questions?” Daniel asked once again.
Based on the feel of the crowd, they seemed to be satisfied, but I knew it wouldn’t be the end. Something told me some were afraid to be seen as though they doubted and would rather the privacy of an intimate conversation to air their concerns. Peering at Mason as he began to speak, I knew he would allow them the time they needed.
“Okay then, let’s close the meeting and you can get back to your evenings. I appreciate you all coming at such short notice.” He broke out into a wide smile as members started to rise to their feet. “Feel free to hang around, and I’m sure you can find something to eat.”
I watched as little groups formed—hugs and whispers being exchanged. It wasn’t a surprise to see some head straight for the house as Eric and Wade’s stomachs dictated their priorities.
“So how do you think it went?” Mason whispered, never taking his eyes away from them. “I was expecting a lot more comments and questions from the pack.”
“I know, but the important ones were brought up, so we’ll see what happens. Once everyone gets home and has a chance to ponder over everything, there may be more,” Daniel added, letting out a deep breath.
“I wondered if perhaps they didn’t want to look as
though they didn’t have faith in you. They may not want to say something they think will publicly embarrass you.” I noticed a few people approaching us. “See, I wouldn’t be surprised if that’s what happened. You both might be here for a while.”
Leaning in to kiss Mason on the cheek, I patted the side of Daniel’s arm. “Don’t let them keep him up too late, okay?”
“Sure, Momma Darcy.” Daniel grinned, raising his hand in a salute.
“You heading out?” Mason asked, pulling me in close. He traced the side of my face with his finger, twirling a strand of hair as I placed my hand on his chest. I loved being able to feel the strength of his heartbeat under my touch.
“Yeah, I’ll leave you two to business. I’ll go socialize a little and then go to bed.” I lifted onto my tiptoes and placed a kiss on his lips, feathering twice. “You were good tonight. I love you.”
A soft chuckle was all the warning I received as Mason’s arms wrapped around me, causing me to press up against him. His mouth descended to mine, and he gave me a proper goodbye kiss—one that was answered with wolf whistles and a smattering of applause from those nearby. He wore a triumphant smile when we finally broke apart, and tipping his head back, laughed.
Leaving him, I wandered through the crowds, thanking people and discretely checking in with them to see how they were. I’d almost made it back into the house when I heard my name being called. It was tempting to keep walking, to pretend I hadn’t heard the feminine voice, but after sharing how I’d try to get to know Amber better, I couldn’t be seen ignoring her. Schooling my expression, I turned to greet her.
“Did you really mean what you said earlier? About being willing to get to know me?”
“I did,” I replied. It’s also a good chance to keep an eye on you, I thought as well.
Forget Me Not (#2, The Mystic Wolves) Page 5
