Mating

the Red Wolf

(Book 10, Grey Wolf Pack Romance Novellas)
By E A Price

Copyright 2014 by Elizabeth Ann Price

All rights reserved. Any unauthorized reprint or use of this material is
prohibited. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or
by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by
any information storage and retrieval system without express written permission
from the author.

Special thanks to Linda Garrison Gray for editing suggestions.

Disclaimer
This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, businesses, places, events and
incidents are either the products of the authors imagination or used in a fictitious
manner. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is
purely coincidental.

Front cover
Both images used to create the front cover have been deemed to be in the public
domain, and available for reuse. The images have not been modified, and no
offense is meant in the use of them.
The wolf picture lonely wolf is by Gethu Daniel, found on Flickr at
https://www.flickr.com/photos/ghetzu/3535994578/
The embracing couple was authored on http://salongen.de/picvvm/wallpaper-lovekiss-free-download

Table of Contents

Chapter One
Chapter Two
Chapter Three
Chapter Four
Chapter Five
Chapter Six
Chapter Seven
Chapter Eight
Chapter Nine
Chapter Ten
Chapter Eleven
Chapter Twelve
Chapter Thirteen
Chapter Fourteen
Chapter Fifteen
Chapter Sixteen
Chapter Seventeen
Chapter Eighteen
Epilogue
Thank you

Chapter One
17th February
Itll be fine; theyll love you.
Ummm hmmm, murmured Kim doubtfully.
Ed kissed her cheek and squeezed her ass for good measure. You have nothing to worry about.
Yep, just because Im meeting my boyfriends family for the first time, theres no need to worry.
Ed smirked. Exactly, thats the spirit.
Kim rolled her eyes. Kim Hawkins was a grey wolf shifter and part of the Grey wolf pack that lived
in a small town in Virginia called Rose. She managed a local pack owned bar in Rose called Bar
Luna. She and Ed had been dating steadily since September, and now it was time to meet the family.
Ed Buchanan was also a wolf shifter, but a red wolf shifter. He lived in the city of Alexandria, which
was close to Rose, and worked as a lawyer. They had been travelling back and forth to visit one
another over the past months as much as their schedules would allow, but it had become increasingly
clear that this wasnt satisfying either of them. Changes needed to happen, and soon.
Kim loved Ed and was sure he was her true mate, but... she had been slightly hesitant about
commitment. As far as she could see, there were one or two obstacles to their happily ever after.
For one thing, they lived apart, and both had lives, relatives, jobs and friends with each of their
respective packs. One of them would have to compromise and leave their pack to be with the other. It
wasnt an easy decision.
For another, Kim had already been married once and, to put it mildly, it had not turned out well. She
wasnt exactly eager to jump into another marriage blind.
More importantly, Kim had a 5-year-old daughter called Jamie. She wasnt an obstacle; Kim would
never think that, but Jamie was Kims top priority. If Ed wasnt a suitable father for Jamie, then she
would never have contemplated mating with him. Luckily, Ed and Jamie were thick as thieves, and Ed
was slowly getting used to being a father figure.
These were the main reasons for their cautiousness. She was forever thankful that Ed was a red wolf;
they were much more patient and much less aggressive than their grey counterparts. If he had been a
grey wolf, he would have wanted her mated and bonded to him within a matter of hours. Instead, Ed
had been content to allow them to take things slow and get to know one another.
Although, she was getting kind of worried about that now. Cmon, there was slow, and then there was
slow. If Ed really felt as strongly as she did, wouldnt he be chomping at the bit to bond with her?
Yeah, she was never satisfied, was she?
At that moment, they were waiting for Eds brother, William to collect them, and take them to the
Buchanan family private island. Yep, she wasnt kidding. Eds family owned their own private island
in the Caribbean.

They were stood on the dock of the mainland waiting for the speedboat to collect them and take them
to Buchanan Island. The name was soooo imaginative. A boat was the only way on or off the island.
Kim almost swallowed her tongue when he told her. She knew that Ed was... a little richer than her.
God, who was she kidding? She had been living with her mother since her ex-husband cleared out
their bank accounts and ran off with a skunk shifter. She had only just managed to scrape her way
back to solvency. The asshole had left a lot of debt behind.
She was more than a little surprised to find out just how rich Ed was. His eldest brother, Harold was
the Alpha of the Buchanan wolf pack, but she would never have guessed how affluent they were. Her
own packs Alpha, Adam did okay, but he was hardly topping the rich lists. Not that hed want to, he
was pretty down to earth and preferred the quiet life.
Of course, Ed rarely talked about his family. In all the time shed known him, hed never made
noises about wanting to introduce her to them. She had been a little worried about that, but her wolf
hadnt seemed to mind. The animal felt the connection to Ed and didnt doubt how he felt. Kim didnt
either, really, but even if he loved her, that didnt mean that he wasnt embarrassed by her.
When Kim and Jamie spent Christmas with Ed in Alexandria, shed assumed she would meet a family
member or two. But, apparently, they had been in Switzerland, enjoying the smooth milk chocolate,
the creamy cheese and the impeccable ski slopes. She did have lingering disappointment that Ed had
only invited her to stay with him when his entire family were halfway around the world, but, with just
the three of them, it made for a very cozy, little Christmas.
In fact, Kim had never met a single member of his pack. Ed knew all of hers by name. Jeez, he was a
groomsman at her Alphas wedding!
Kim shook her head and put her arm around his shoulders. Nope, now was not the time to worry.
Whatever fears she might have had should just disappear.
A month ago, he invited her to spend a week in the Caribbean. Shed been thrilled, and hoped that a
proposal might be on the horizon. Her excitement dimmed when she realized it would be spent
celebrating his grandmother s birthday, and that all his family would be there too. But she was
pleased that at least he was acknowledging her existence to them. And even more so when he told her
the invitation extended to Jamie too.
At the moment, Jamie was sat on the dock watching the water for fish. It took every last bit of Kims
willpower not to run over to her and hold onto the back of her t-shirt to stop her from falling in. But
Jamie would scowl at her if she did that. The girl was becoming increasingly independent and
resented Kims mollycoddling. She was growing up way too fast.
Ed smiled at her. There he is.
Ed waved as a boat neared. He disengaged himself from Kim and helped tie off the boat. A man very
similar to Ed jumped out the boat and hugged Ed. He was a few years younger, a few inches taller
and somewhat wirier, but it was obvious they were brothers.
Ed, at five foot ten, was a little shorter than average, but he possessed sinewy muscles and damn, he
was pretty. William was a little gawkier than Ed, and Kim doubted he could sweet-talk anyone the way
Ed could.

They hugged and slapped each other on the back until, catching sight of Kim, William froze.
Eds beast huffed as Williams eyes went wide. He was staring at Kim open-mouthed. Not that Ed
could blame him. She was six feet tall, deliciously curvy, had startling green eyes and a mass of
mahogany red hair. And to boot, she was funny, smart and charming. The she-wolf was a freaking
goddess!
Ed still had trouble believing that she deigned to be seen with him in public. She was the most
beautiful wolf in her pack and plenty of her male pack mates lusted after her, but she only wanted
him. He was unbelievably lucky.
Will, this is Kim. Kim, my younger brother, Will.
Kim smiled graciously and Will almost fainted. Its nice to meet you, Will.
Yes, you too, he burbled.
Ed grabbed a hold of Jamie and tickled her, making her giggle excitedly. And this little monster is
Jamie, Kims daughter.
Oh! Uh, hi, stammered Will. He looked between Kim and Jamie, unsure of what to say. I didnt
realize you were bringing, umm, guests.
Ed frowned. I told Hilda a month ago.
Will grimaced. Hilda and grandmother had a fight and Hilda was fired.
Ed groaned. Their grandmother was, to put it mildly, demanding and brusque. Hilda had been her
personal secretary/assistant/nurse. Ed had high hopes that Hilda, a no-nonsense middle-aged widow
would be able to stick it out. All of the previous occupants in the role lasted less than two months, but
Hilda managed for over a year. It was a surprise that Hilda had quit, and Ed wondered why she had.
Kim looked worried. So does this mean your family has no idea that the two of us are coming with
you?
Ed tried to plaster an unconcerned smile on his face. Probably not, but they wont mind.
Kim nodded. They at least know that youre dating me though, right? Youve mentioned me to them
before?
Ed scratched his head, and Kim slapped his arm. You havent even told your family about me?!
Will looked like he wanted the ground to swallow him up.
How could Ed not have mentioned her to his family? Was she not good enough for him? Or did he
think she wasnt good enough for his fancy family?
Kim opened her mouth to say something but stopped as Jamie took hold of her hand and beamed at
her. Instead, Kim made a concentrated effort to calm both her and her wolf, who was snapping at Ed
in irritation.
Ed tensed. Gorgeous, Im sorry, I didnt think
With an effort, Kim smiled. Its not a problem, as long as your family doesnt mind the additional

guests
They wont, cried Will quickly and blushed as Kim looked at him. Theres plenty of room; youre
very welcome.
Ed rolled his eyes. Terrific; less than five minutes and he was convinced his brother was lusting after
his girlfriend. His mate, corrected his wolf.
Kim gave Will a genuine smile and the young man practically simpered at her. Thank you, Will.
She turned to Ed and with a slight edge to her voice told him theyd talk about this later. Ed didnt
doubt they would.
Will almost fell over his feet helping Kim with her bags, practically pushing Ed out the way to get to
them. Ed dropped his own bags in the boat and swiftly threw a squealing Jamie in too. He held out
his hand to help Kim but found his brother was already there. Ed held back a growl as his brother s
hand lingered on her waist.
He figured he would have to worry about his brother, Jonathan, who was a lothario and asshole of the
highest order, but he had no idea that Will would take to Kim so quickly. The young man was more
interested in computers than women, or at least he had been before he met Kim
He felt inside his pocket and fingered the small box within. Alright, their vacation wasnt exactly off
to a cracking start, but come hell or high-water, he was determined that by the time the week was over,
she would be leaving the island with a ring on her finger. Hed been patient enough, and now it was
time that she finally became his. His wolf roared in agreement. Mine.

Chapter Two
The trip to the island was pretty short. Kim spent the time trying to remember the names of Eds
family, while also ignoring the beseeching looks Ed was throwing her and pretending she didnt
notice Will ogling her legs. Perhaps shorts hadnt been a good idea.
When they arrived at the mainland, shed felt more than a little sweaty and had swiftly changed into a
pair of shorts, a tank top and flat sandals. She pinned back her abundant red hair, allowing just a few
curls to fall free. Shed forgone make-up and was pleased that the thin sheen of sweat made her glow.
Ed had much the same reaction as Will when he saw her. Her legs did look spectacularly long in
shorts. After having spent her teenage years as a graceless giraffe, it was gratifying that being so tall
did actually have its perks later in life.
Okay, so back to the matter in hand. She could admire her legs later. Now, Ed said his grandmother
was the head of his family. Kim couldnt remember her name, but she figured it was best to call her
Mrs. Buchanan. Or your ladyship, perhaps. She certainly sounded like a diva.
Her only son was Eds dad who was Harold Sr. and who used to be the packs Alpha. He was married
to Eds mom, Marguerite. Mental note, do not call her Mags or Margie. She apparently only likes
Marguerite.
Harold Sr. relinquished control of the pack to his eldest son, Harold Jr. a few years ago. Although, it
seems that the grandmother really has all the control, at least that was what Kim gathered from the
tidbits of information Ed had thrown her.
Anyway, Harold was 35, and married to Christine, and together they had four children. Next up was
Arthur, who was 33; he was also married to a woman called Jennifer, but they didnt have kids, and
both worked at the same law firm Ed did. Then there was Jonathan, who was 30 and, according to Ed,
a bit of a ladies man. Other than Ed, there was an adopted sister called Olivia who was 21 and Will
who had recently turned 19. Oh yeah, and every single member of his family was a red wolf.
Kim gave herself a mental pat on the back. Ed hadnt told her much over the months, but she was
pleased that she had remembered it all.
The momentary elation soon waned. It was all very well and good remembering their names, but
how would they feel about her gate-crashing their party? She wondered how they would feel about a
divorced, single mom, grey wolf shifter taking up with Ed? She wondered if the age difference
would bother them? At 31, she was still young, but Ed was only 26.
She braced herself as she saw someone on the dock waving at them. Well, she was about to find out.
*
Ed was annoyed to find Jonathan on the dock waiting. He was stood grinning at them insolently, but
Ed couldnt fail to notice the sudden change in his demeanor. Jonathan was suddenly very interested
in what was happening.
His wolf whined. This had been a bad idea. He shouldnt have brought Kim here it wasnt safe!
There were far too many single males running around. More than zero was too many.

Will was trying to help Kim out the boat but Jonathan easily pushed their younger brother out of the
way. He pulled her out of the boat and stood next to her far too closely.
Jonathan gave her a devastating smile. I dont believe weve met, Im Jonathan.
Kim gave him a polite smile but carefully extricated her hand from his. Im Kim and this is my
daughter, Jamie.
Kim pulled Jamie in front of her and bit her lip as Jamie gave him an impish little curtsy. Oh, Ed
really was rubbing off on her.
Jonathan politely shook Jamies hand and called her milady, sending the 5-year-old into a fit of
giggles. He looked between the two of them pointedly ignoring Ed and Will, who were whispering
and hauling the bags onto the dock.
Not that you arent very welcome, but may I ask why
Ed slipped an arm around Kims waist and was extremely grateful that she didnt try to shake him off.
She wasnt quite that mad yet. Although, she might be when he repeated what Will just told him.
Jonathan looked at the two in disbelief but quickly smothered that with another charming smile. Ed
wasnt usually prone to jealousy, he knew that Kim garnered looks wherever she went and usually it
didnt bother him. He felt proud that a creature like Kim belonged to him, or at least would belong to
him. But when it was his brother it was different; it incited twinges of inadequacy that Ed was rarely
prone to. He wasnt as big and burly as other wolves, but he was smart and good at persuading
people to do what he wanted, or at least women.
The problem was that Jonathan was just as smart and persuasive as him, but also had four extra inches
of height and a lot more muscles than him. Realistically, he knew that Kim was his true mate, and he
had nothing to worry about, but he also knew that true mates were regarded less highly in his pack
than in Kims. A number of his pack considered them to be a nuisance rather than having someone to
share part of your soul. If Jonathan really wanted Kim, he wouldnt care whose true mate she was.
His beast snapped at his brother, and Ed tried to remain calm and trust that Kim wouldnt betray him.
Well, said Jonathan, Im Eds big brother.
He put such an emphasis on big that Kim was sure whether she wanted to punch him in the face or
burst into laughter. Arrogant tool. How dare he belittle Ed that way? She may be mad at Ed, but she
and her wolf certainly didnt appreciate anyone putting down their mate. That was their job!
Kim relaxed a little and slipped an arm around Eds shoulders. Nice to meet you big brother.
Jonathan gave them a stilted smile and oofed as Will threw a bag at him.
Give us a hand, will you?
Ed gave Will a grateful look as Jonathan grumbled and snatched up the bag. The two brothers started
walking up the house, which Kim noticed looked more like a hotel than a family home. A beautiful,
expensive hotel that she would have to sell a kidney in order that she could afford to stay there.
Ed held back a little and started walking with her slowly. Im sorry I havent told my family about
you.

Kim huffed a little but didnt say anything.

I was worried that if I did they would want to meet you
What?! Kim stopped walking and rounded on him. Why in the hell would that be a bad thing?
Ed put his hands on her shoulders; he flicked his eyes to make sure Jamie wasnt going far. At the
moment she was sat on the ground ten feet away. Bored with the conversation she was looking at the
book her grandma - Kims mom, had given her for the trip.
Gorgeous, it wouldnt be bad for you, it would be bad for me.
Kim narrowed her eyes. How?
Kim, my family are His face pinched thinking of the possibilities, arrogant, rude, elitist
Snobs, okay? They think anyone who wasnt born a red wolf in Alexandria is beneath their
contempt. I was worried that if you met them, you wouldnt think I was worth the effort. And if I told
them about you, theyd want to meet you right away. I just needed time to worm my way into your
affection, and make sure that you wouldnt be scared off too easily.
Kim arched an eyebrow. Worm your way into my affection?
Ed gave her a wry smile. Well, crowbar my way in.
Ed, I love you, nothing will scare me away. She brushed her lips over his, and he sighed.
He slid his hands down her arms until they were holding hands. Gorgeous, I love that you feel so
much for me, but maybe you should wait until you meet them before you say that.
Babe, they cannot be that bad.
Ed chuckled hollowly. Oh, yes they can. There was a reason he stopped bringing his girlfriends
home a few years ago. Inevitably, they ran off crying and refused to speak to him again. He couldnt
afford for that to happen with Kim. And it got worse than his immediate family
He winced, and even his wolf whimpered about what he had to say next. And it gets worse; my exgirlfriend is here.
Kim pursed her lips as her wolf snarled. What ex-girlfriend?
Ed tried not to gulp. Helena.
You never told me about a Helena. What the hell else was he keeping from her?!
Because she wasnt important, Ed told her soothingly. She really wasnt; Helena was a huge blip on
his dating past, and it was a source of contention that she remained friends with his sister. She
doesnt mean anything to me, but shes friendly with Olivia.
Kim shifted from foot to foot trying to calm her snarling beast. When did you date? How long did
you date for? How did you meet? Why did you break up? What does she look like?
Ed tried not to smile at his jealous mate; it worked both ways. It was about a year ago; it lasted three
months; we met through my sister; she slept with Jonathan and shes about five seven, auburn hair and
blue eyes, and absolutely pales in comparison to you in every way. But then, so does every other

woman on the planet.

Kim tried not to smile at that, but he could see it in her eyes, she was pleased with what he said. It was
all true too; he hadnt even looked at another woman since meeting her.
She looked at him in concern. Wait, she slept with Jonathan?
Ed shrugged. Yeah, its not a big deal.
Her eyebrows almost shot off her head. Not a big deal? Your brother sleeps with your girlfriend,
and its not a big deal?
He squeezed her hands. Its not a big deal that he slept with Helena; if he tried anything with you, Id
murder him. But with Helena
Hey!
They turned to see Will calling them. Ed, Grandmother is asking after you. With a nervous
expression, Will ran toward the house.
Ed sucked in a breath. Well talk about this in private later.
Youre damn right we will.
Ed inwardly groaned as his wolf pawed the ground. Alright, but lets just face the ravaging beasts
that I call family first.

Chapter Three
Kim giggled and threw herself backwards onto the huge four-poster bed, and Jamie eagerly did the
same.
She had no idea what was wrong with Ed; his family werent as bad as he thought they were. True,
they could hardly be described as warm or loving, unlike her mom, but they werent that bad. Or
maybe she was just more thick-skinned than his ex-girlfriends. Hey, shed survived being married to
a complete asshole for over a year; she could handle a few snarky comments from people with sticks
up their butts.
When they made it up to the house, it was, as expected, just as lush on the inside as the outside. It was
literally the fanciest place she had ever been to; it made the hotel she stayed at for her honeymoon
look as opulent and inviting as Bates Motel. But then, they hadnt exactly had much money to spend;
they were saving all their money for the baby. At the time, she was six months pregnant
When they entered, everyone suddenly went quiet and stared at them. She was surrounded by a sea of
uptight, well dressed and very surprised red wolf shifters.
Ed introduced her, and they all looked even more surprised. It was odd, because, by that point, she
knew both Will and Jonathan must have told them all about her. She considered shouting boo at them
just to see what theyd do, but doubted that would make them like her. From what Ed said, they
seemed predisposed to not like her, so it was probably best not to actively give them a reason to hate
her.
Ed took her around the room introducing her to everyone. For the most part, they were kind and
smiled at her. Harold Jr. was thoroughly unimpressed by her, but his wife was actually quite warm
and welcoming and took to Jamie straight away, while their children all looked at her shyly. Olivia
looked pained, but Kim didnt think that was because of her. While Helena as Kim expected the red
she-wolf was less than pleased at Kims presence and tried to whisper to Olivia while sneaking snide
glances in her direction. It didnt work very well; Olivia was in a world of her own.
There were also two full-time staff members at the house, a married couple called George and Ethel
who took care of the house all year round. Ed later explained that they also hired local men and
women from the mainland during the day to help out whenever the family was there.
Other than the expected family, Olivia had brought her boyfriend, Kurt with her, although she didnt
seem overly interested in him, and instead was throwing hurt glances at her brother, Will. There was
also his grandmother s assistant, Judy, who Kim guessed was Hildas replacement. And then there
was his grandmother
She looked like she ought to be luring children into her gingerbread house. Kim shook herself for
thinking mean thoughts, even if they were accurate.
His grandmother crooked a finger at her, and then gave Helena a withering glare. Helena soon
scooted out of her seat opposite, and his grandmother motioned for Kim to sit down. Helena gave
Kim a haughty look, when she was certain the grandmother wasnt looking.
Kim almost rolled her eyes. Wuss.

His grandmother sniffed as she tapped her fingers against her cane. Youre very tall.
Kim shrugged. I drank a lot of milk when I was young, plus it didnt hurt that my dad was six foot
seven.
The old ladys lips twitched. So youre dating my grandson.
Yeah, the cute one.
Ed was chatting to his parents but looked up and grinned when she said that. Kim noticed that Jamie
was being entertained by Christine and smiled. Apparently, Christine had four sons and was dying for
a little girl, but Harold Jr. didnt want more children.
The grandmother banged her cane on the floor to get Kims attention. Are you dating my grandson
for his money?
A few family members gasped, and both Ed and his dad, Harold Sr. shouted a rebuke out to her, but
Kim waved them away. Was this the worst the old woman could throw at her? Ha! Try being married
to an abusive grey wolf for a year!
No, replied Kim simply. I mean, come on, I know he makes a decent wage as a lawyer, but I do
okay myself. At least she was doing okay now that she had paid off her exs debts.
The elderly woman pursed her lips. But what about his inheritance and his allowance? Im worth a
lot of money. How would you feel if I told you that I would cut him out of my will if he married
you?
Grandmother! roared Ed, rushing over to Kims side. He didnt know what pissed him off more,
his grandmother talking to Kim about marriage before he had a chance to, or insinuating that Kim
was only dating him for monetary gain. His wolf howled in frustration at the controlling old woman.
To Kims credit, she didnt blush, nor was she taken aback by his grandmother s attitude. First of all,
I had no idea he was in your will or how much money you might be worth. Second of all, you seem
very healthy to me, so the contents of your will seem very unimportant at this time. Thirdly, we arent
getting married, and if we were, I can honestly say that your opinion on the matter wouldnt make a
blind bit of difference to me.
Ed flushed with pleasure at Kims answers, while the rest of his family were shocked into silence.
The only people who had ever been so frank with her were Harold Sr. and Ed. Not even her own
husband had been ballsy enough to handle her!
Their eyes bulged even more when the old lady started chuckling. After she calmed she reached out
her hand, and Kim shook it. You may call me Marie; its a pleasure to meet you, Kim.
And you, Marie.
Are all grey wolves like you?
Kim smiled. Were a pretty rambunctious lot; we dont tend to be very refined and we prefer to act
first and blurt out whatever s on our minds.
How refreshing. Marie gave her family a significant look before she told Judy that she was going
to the study to finish some letters, and she asked Ethel to make up a room for Kim and Jamie.

Ed coughed. Kim could share

No, interrupted Marie sharply, I may be old-fashioned, but while youre under my roof and
unmarried you will sleep in separate bedrooms.
Ed scowled, and Kim had to stop herself from keeling over in laughter. He looked like a 4-year-old
boy whod just found out he wasnt getting any dessert.
Marie reached out a hand to Kim, and she helped her to her feet. She walked away with Judy
scrambling behind her.
Ed thought it was a good idea to take both her and Jamie on a tour of the house, and she concurred.
Jonathan winked and said hed see her later. Will blushed and tried to say the same thing. Olivia
mumbled something and ran out the room. Helena quickly followed, cutting a look of irritation in
Kims direction before she did.
Ed took her hand and led the two of them away as quickly as possible. As soon as they were out of
earshot he turned to Kim. Im sorry about that.
Its okay; Ive met worse people. Remember, I manage a bar, I deal with drunk people all the time
and they are way worse than your family. Besides, she could stand his family to be with him, it was a
very small price to pay. Her wolf agreed with that whole-heartedly.
Well, just wait until later when theyre obnoxious and drunk, whispered Ed, out of earshot of Jamie.
Ed showed her the whole house, save for the inside the occupied bedrooms. It was a lovely house,
and Jamie was thrilled at how big the pool was. Kim, on the other hand, was most impressed by the
bed she and Jamie would be sharing.
Ed chuckled as they jumped up and down a few times. After a few minutes Jamie took herself to the
bathroom and shouted out, Mommy, its huge!
Kim rushed to have a look, and yep, the bathroom was even bigger than either of their bedrooms at
home. Wow, did Ed make that comparison too? Did he look down on their small house?
Kim came out, and Ed swept her into a kiss. She sighed and relaxed as his hands traversed her body,
and his tongue tangled with hers. He pulled away to spread fluttering kisses over her jaw and neck.
Im sorry we have to have separate rooms, he murmured.
She snaked her arms around him and raked her fingers through his hair. Mmmm, well live.
That bed looks awfully big
Kim let out a tinkling laugh. Dont worry, Ill have Jamie to keep me company.
He grunted in mild annoyance. I guess it is just for a few days, he muttered, although nothing could
stop his grumbling wolf. Hed envisioned them together, night after night, entwined in one another s
arms sigh.
Reluctantly, he pulled back. Well, I guess Ill leave you to unpack.
He dragged himself to the door; Kim blew him a kiss and told him shed miss him. She was half-

joking and almost started chuckling at the hungry look on his face.
This may not be the vacation either of them was expecting, but it wasnt as bad as Kim thought it
would be. His family members werent nearly as awful as Ed painted them to be. The presence of
Helena was a bit of a fly in the ointment. Cow. But Ed was adamant that she didnt mean anything to
him, and Kim, in spite of her wolfs yowls, took him at his word. Yep, she was determined to have a
nice time. She was in the Caribbean for a free holiday with her daughter and her mate. Whats the
worst that can happen?
*
Ed slowed as he passed Arthur and Jennifer s door. The two were shouting at one another. He shook
his head and sped up again. He hoped they sorted out their problems and soon. They were so happy
when they first married.
He groaned as he approached his own bedroom door. This was a list of people he wanted to avoid
and right at the top was his eldest brother, who just happened to be pacing in front of his door,
blocking the entrance.
The two had never got on. Ed was generally easy going, but Harold Jr. just brought out the worst in
everyone. He was amazed that Christine stayed married to him, although Ed partly presumed it was
out of a sense of duty and that she enjoyed being the female Alpha. Christine was the daughter of the
Alpha of a red wolf pack in Texas; it had been an arranged marriage. Christine was nice, nicer than
she might have been, but she was given to value things like tradition and duty over love and
happiness. Ed was in two minds about that. If it came down to it, he could never agree to an arranged
marriage to a stranger, not now that hed met Kim. His wolf vociferously agreed.
Harold Jr. had always been controlling and cold, and since his father stepped down as Alpha, he had
only gotten worse. Ed had clashed with him over his high-handedness numerous times. Although, he
did have to admit that he wasnt nearly as bad as their father had been
Harry, Ed greeted him.
Harold Jr. winced; he hated being called Harry. What have you brought that woman here for?
demanded Harold without preamble.
Ed tensed as his wolf snarled. Kim is my girlfriend, and I wanted her to meet my loving family, he
sneered.
Harolds nostrils flared. Is she really, or this some kind of game to you? If it is, well done, she
plays the part to perfection and the kids a nice touch.
Eds wolf was furious, but the man himself was just baffled. I have no idea what youre talking
about, he said trying to get past him to the bedroom.
Harold folded his arms and refused to move. Ed considered punching him. Red wolf Alphas werent
exactly chosen for their physical fortitude, not like grey wolves. Grey Alphas are the strongest males
of the packs, and best equipped to protect their pack mates. Red wolf Alphas are the savviest
businessmen in the packs and the best able to handle the packs businesses. There were contrasting
dynamics between the different packs.

Harold was built much like Jonathan, but his stomach was starting to gain a little paunch. Ed doubted
Harolds schedule allowed much time for working out. Ed could probably take him. Although the
ramifications of beating up his Alpha were another matter
Ed sighed as his wolf prowled. What do you want Harold?
Is Kim really your girlfriend, or is this some kind of move to get money out of grandmother?
Because, if it is, it wont work. Grandmother might pretend she likes her and that shes all for Kims
honesty and forthrightness, but if you were going to ask Kim to join the pack youd find out the
hard way that she wouldnt be welcome.
Ed frowned. Harold found it irritating that their grandmother retained control over the familys
wealth as the Alpha he believed the role should fall to him. Their grandmother would never
relinquish control; she liked being able to pull Harolds strings whenever she wanted Each
member of the family, their father and all the grandchildren each had a trust fund and would receive
an equal portion of the familys wealth after their grandmother died. But, Ed also knew that his
grandmother was apt to impart gifts of money to whomever her favorite happened to be at the time
Kim is really my girlfriend, and I am not here to try and get any money, now if you will excuse
me
Harold breathed in and out a few times before he clucked his tongue and strode away. Harold didnt
look very convinced, but Ed didnt see how he was going to change that.
He pushed his way into his bedroom and was dismayed to find Jonathan lounging in an armchair by
the window. Who was next? Was Will about to jump out from behind the curtain?!
Ed ignored his brother and started pulling open his suitcase and putting his clothes away with jerky
movements.
Old Harry didnt seem too happy, crowed Jonathan, a look of mischief on his handsome face.
Ed grunted. When does he ever?
So its true then?
Is what true? snapped Ed impatiently. He was in no mood after his run-in with Harold.
Is Kim really your girlfriend? I just assumed you paid her
Ed roared and ripped a lamp out of the wall and threw it at him. Quick as a flash, Jonathan ducked
and chuckled as his little brother stood growling at him, claws flexing. Alright, settle down Thor.
Ed closed his eyes and willed his wolf to back off.
Jonathan tried to hold back his smirk. I take it that Kim is off limits, then; you wouldnt be interested
in the same arrangement
No, growled Ed.
Jonathan nodded and moved to the door. Does Kim know what happened with Helena?
Eds jaw ticked as his wolf huffed. Not exactly, she knows about you and Helena

Im guessing shes not my biggest fan, then.

Ed snorted. She wasnt even before I told her.
Jonathan left, and Ed felt uneasy. He should have told Kim about Helena before they arrived; he just
hadnt expected the damn red she-wolf to turn up a family event. So matter how hard she tried, she
would never be a part of their family.
He would speak to Olivia about the matter, and see to it that his sister didnt take it into her head to
make this a regular occurrence.
Ed shuddered, and his wolf whined. The thought that he had ever considered marrying Helena made
his blood run cold. Shit, he needed to talk to Kim in private before anyone else took it into their head
to tell Kim that he was once engaged to Helena. He imagined Kim wouldnt exactly welcome the news.

Chapter Four
Kim twirled in front of the mirror. Christine had taken Jamie away to play with her boys and Kim,
feeling a little travel weary, had taken a nap.
When shed woken, she found a note from Ed on her pillow telling her he didnt want to wake her and
that she looked like Sleeping Beauty. She wouldnt have minded if he had woken her. She and her
wolf would have been more than happy with a little afternoon delight.
Shed had a quick shower and had slipped on a sundress. She dabbed on some lipstick and unpinned
her wild hair. Yep, not bad at all.
She started making her way to the dining room and was surprised to come upon Helena and Kurt,
Olivias boyfriend, huddled together and in the midst of a whispered argument in the hallway.
Helena straightened up and told Kurt to hush when she saw Kim. Kim moved past them, pretending
she hadnt seen anything. Clearly, Kurt thought they were doing something wrong though, his face
was tomato red.
Youre a fast mover, sneered Helena at her.
Kim stopped and turned back to her. Excuse me?
Youre here five minutes and youve already got the old woman fooled.
Kim shook her head. Ive no idea what youre talking about.
Helena snorted and pushed passed her. No, of course you dont, she muttered nastily.
Kurt moved away in the other direction as quickly as possible.
Kims wolf snarled and snapped at the other female, but Kim couldnt care less. The red she-wolf was
obviously annoyed at losing Ed and jealous that Kim had him. Shed feel the same way if the situation
were reversed. Although, there was no way in hell that she would jump into bed with Jonathan. She
may have done things in the past that she wasn't proud of, but she would never cheat.
She continued on her way and was relieved to find Ed waiting for her. While his family members
were decked out in linen trousers and stuffy shirts, Ed looked like his normal charming self in a pair
of board-shorts and a Rolling Stones t-shirt. She was pleased that Ed didnt act differently around his
family.
Ed put his hands on her waist and gave her a lingering kiss. It was pretty tame compared to the things
they got up to in private, but Olivia still blushed fire-truck red when she saw them.
Dinner was a mixed affair. Arthur and Jennifer were quiet; they werent speaking to one another and
could barely manage to speak to anyone else either. Christine kept all the children, including Jamie,
occupied and barely paid attention to anyone else. Harold Jr. seemed to be thoroughly annoyed at
everyone, but most of his ire was directed at his wife who was ignoring him, and Kim, whom he saw
as an interloper. Will sat next to Olivia, maneuvering her boyfriend out the way to get to the seat, and
then proceeded to not talk to her throughout the whole dinner.

Kim almost growled as Helena managed to sit next to Ed and fluttered her eyelashes at him
constantly. Ed actually did growl when Jonathan wangled a seat next to Kim, and constantly leered at
her.
Everyone else was fairly polite and chatty. Jamie was loving hanging around with the young red
wolves and all four boys already adored her. The dinner of roast beef was delicious. Kim was
surprised that they werent eating a traditional Caribbean dish, but Ed whispered that his grandmother
was quite rigid about her diet.
After dinner, all the women left the room and for some reason the men stayed behind. Kim found it a
little strange; what, exactly, were they hanging back for? What were they going to do? This kind of
thing never came up in her house; there was usually only her, Jamie and her mom for dinner, and
usually one of them was absent, either by being at work or being at a friends house.
Jamie asked permission to go and play with the other kids, and Kim said yes. Olivia said she would
watch over them. Marie claimed a headache and took herself off to her room.
Christine sat next to Kim and regarded her steadily. So youve been married before.
Kim sipped at a glass of water. Yes, and technically, I still am. She sucked in a deep breath. He
ran out on us just over four years ago; I dont know where he is.
You never thought to find him and get a divorce?
Kim shrugged. Id never thought about getting remarried until she met Ed. In truth, she had
considered tracking her ex down numerous times, and shed also considered beating the bastard to a
pulp, and wringing his neck until all the money he owed her squeezed out of him. However, it had
been kind of a relief when he left; things had not been good between them. She worried that if she
ever found him, he would actually want to come home
Hmmm. Christine watched as Judy sat down and took up some knitting. Helena was trying to
engage Jennifer in conversation, but she seemed too tense to listen.
How did you and Ed meet?
Well
*
13th September
Kim sighed as she looked at the insolent wolf in front of her. Get lost, Bryce, she told him brutally.
Hey, shed tried being nice but the arrogant wolf wouldnt take the damn hint.
He sneered at her. Arent you a bit old to be choosy?
Kim rolled her eyes. She was two years younger than him! It doesnt matter how old I am, Bryce, I
would never settle for you.
You think youre too good for me? Id be doing you a favor. Dont forget, I know where youve
been. I bet you didnt give Alec all this trouble.
Kim let out a small growl as her wolf roared in fury. Bryce was the biggest man-whore in the whole

of the pack, having worked his way around every single female wolf that would give him the time of
day. Kim wasnt one of them.
Kim had been more than a little selective about her choice of bed partner since her husband left. She
wasnt open to a new relationship, given how badly her last one ended, and, instead, preferred to find
discreet males who would sate her heightened sexual need on the full moon. One of whom was Alec,
the pack Beta. Neither wanted to be with the other, and instead just used one another to satiate their
increased need. Apparently, Bryce was also looking for a similar arrangement. Over her dead body.
Either get out of my bar, Bryce, or I will have you removed.
He snorted and walked away muttering the word bitch. Kim sighed; that was it - she was done with
her male pack mates. On the full moon she was going to hunt and hunt until she was too exhausted to
even move her limbs, never mind even contemplate doing something as strenuous as having sex.
It was hard being a wolf shifter on the full moon. For one thing, just about all wolves were forced to
shift; only a handful of older, experienced wolves, and the most disciplined of the pack could manage
not to. Kim knew the pack tracker, Don was able to hold off his shift, and wished she possessed the
control he did. Around the full moon, they also had heightened stamina and libidos, which meant that
they either needed to exhaust themselves hunting or find a willing partner to have sex.
Kim possessed quite a lusty beast, and usually found an ideal partner in advance of the full moon.
However, on the last full moon she made the mistake of spending the night with a male wolf called
Frank who was barely a notch above Bryce on the asshole scale. Shed been horny and desperate, and
now she was paying the price. The dickhead was spreading it around about how easy she was, and
now she was forced to fend off the none-too-subtle seduction techniques of wolves like Bryce. Never
again.
The worst part was that other she-wolves were looking at her like she some kind of harlot. She could
see them clutching their males whenever she came close. They honestly thought that she might try
and steal their damn mates! It was insulting. If she were a male, no one would give a damn, but
because shes female, shes immediately painted as a whore!
Kim let out a breath and moved out to the bar. She slapped a smile on her face and started serving
customers. After a small face-off with Mal Tanner, a 19-year-old wolf who was trying to buy
alcohol, she relaxed a little and surveyed her customers.
She had it on good authority that Alec was trying to impress the plump, young blonde witch talking to
Adam, her Alpha. She was glad; Alec had been alone for a long time, and he deserved to be happy.
Alec hadnt arrived yet, so Kim took a moment to study her. But it wasnt the blonde girl who drew
her attention; it was who she was with.
Kim gasped as she caught sight of him, and even her sulky wolf sat up to took notice. The most
beautiful man shed ever seen was laughing and joking with Adam and the blonde girl.
He wasnt like the males in her pack, who were rough and bulky. He was fairly slim in comparison,
but still nicely built, and the lines of his body clearly showed he had nothing to be ashamed of. He
was quite angelic looking, with his flawless face, blonde hair and blue eyes. Yep, hed look right at
home lounging around on a cloud with a set of wings. He smiled and laughed and oh, he just lit up
the whole room. She felt a nervous stirring within her as her wolf simpered over the male.

Kim took in a deep breath and almost moaned at his scent. It was clear that he was a red wolf, but he
also smelled heavenly. It was that delicious fragrance when clean cotton comes out of the dryer
She laughed and shook her head. Clean clothes? Thats what turned her on? Her wolf huffed in
disapproval. The beast thought he smelled divine, and hey, Kim was definitely not arguing.
The young man motioned for another beer and she reddened as she felt her sex moisten and virtually
say hello. No, down girl!
Kim grabbed a beer before she melted on the spot and strode down the bar to pass it to him. God, up
close he looked young. She guessed she had at least five years on him, maybe more; he could
probably still pass for a teenager!
She was pleased to note his eyes dilating as she approached. Age difference or not, she was still a
sight to behold. Her beast pranced around at the moony expression on his face. Yeah, no way was he
immune to her. In spite of herself, her eyes flicked down and saw that another part of his anatomy
was also taking notice. Well, it had almost been a month since she last had sex
Kim leaned over and passed him the beer. His wide eyes made a long, appraising sweep of her body,
and he definitely liked what he saw. He grinned and winked at her; feeling saucy, she winked in
return. Her wolf yipped in approval.
Someone else called for service at the other end of the bar, and, reluctantly, she broke away from her
handsome stranger. But she made sure to saunter as slowly as she could, wiggling her rear. She
heard the young man yelp and bit back a chuckle.
A few seconds later, it all went to hell.
The next thing she knew, there were screams and shouts around the bar, mixed with Alecs growls.
She turned to find Alec trying to strangle her handsome stranger.
Her heart leapt into her chest, and her wolf yowled in panic. Without thinking, she rushed toward
them and desperately tried to tug and claw at Alecs beefy arms. Tears sprang to her eyes in
frustration as she struggled to pull him away. Damnit, he was too strong! Her wolf whimpered at
seeing the young man choking, and one word kept flashing through her mind. Mate. Oh, god, her
mate!
Vaguely, she was aware of the young blonde woman begging Alec to let him go, and thankfully he
did. The young man slumped to the floor, wheezing and gasping for breath. Kim went with him and
pulled him into her arms, stroking his hair and placing herself in a protective stance in case Alec tried
anything else. If the Beta wanted to hurt her mate, he would damn well have to go through her first!
Adam returned to the bar and yelled at Alec to get out, which he duly did.
Mindful of Kims fierce gaze, the young woman asked Ed if he was okay. With a surprisingly smug
smile, he curled himself further into Kims soft, warm body, and told her hed live. The young
woman gave him a half-sour and half-worried look before excusing herself.
Adam came over and checked on the young man. On Kims suggestion, they moved him into her
office, and Adam went back out to the bar to calm everyone down.
The red wolf relaxed into the ancient, battered couch as Kim inspected his body. She ran her hands

over him, just to make sure he was okay, of course. He chuckled, and Kim turned bright red as she
accidentally grazed his hard manhood.
Oh, Im sorry! she exclaimed sheepishly.
She stood before him, and he smiled at her. Im Ed, by the way, he said in a croaky voice.
Im Kim. Again, Im sorry; I was just umm checking you were okay she finished lamely.
The fact that Alec hadnt been anywhere near that part of his body hadnt entered her thoughts. She
just needed to make sure that his delectable body was in working order. Judging by his growing
reaction, he was fine.
Thank you, although I am a little concerned about my neck. His expression was pouting yet playful,
and Kim had to bite back a giggle.
Then I better take a look, she murmured, huskily.
His eyes lit up, and his chest heaved as his eyes feasted over her body. She felt a crackle of erotic
electricity snap throughout the office. The attraction she felt definitely wasnt one-sided.
Boldly, she kneeled, one leg on either side of him so she was straddling him. Carefully, she leaned
over and gently smoothed her hands over his bruised skin. Her wolf whimpered a little, but Kim
shushed her. He was a shifter. Hed heal. Hmmm, maybe she should kiss him better
She smiled as she saw Ed fixating on her ample breasts. She almost gasped as she felt his hands move
to her waist. They stayed there a few moments before snaking their way down to her ass. Kim sat up
and looked into his amber infused eyes.
Fuck, you are so beautiful, Kim, he breathed with feeling.
Her wolf howled in delight, and Kim pressed her lips to his. He nibbled on her bottom lip,
demanding entrance, which was eagerly given. He wrapped his arms around her, pulling her flush
against him, crushing her supple body to his as he took her in a searching kiss.
Panting, she pulled back and leaned her forehead against his. Heavens, that was the most unbelievable
kiss shed ever had.
How soon can I see you again, Kim? he purred.
As soon as you can make it back to Rose, Ed.
*
Present day
Kim related a somewhat edited version of how they met; for example, she completely neglected to
mention the part where Kim practically molested him and played down the part where Ed was almost
murdered by her Beta. She rubbed her neck. It was hardly a fairytale meeting.
Christine raised an eyebrow. I had an arranged marriage; my father didnt give me much of a
choice. Harold and I met on our wedding day, five minutes before the ceremony. That was hardly a
fairytale start either, but we are happy - very happy. Do you think Ed wants to marry you? she asked
bluntly.

Kim flushed bright red. She hoped so, but she certainly wasnt about to jinx it. She opened her mouth
to say something non-committal but was cut off by a harrumphing Helena.
Tiring of trying to talk to Jennifer, Helena flounced off the couch. Good luck with that; Ed is not the
marrying type. When we were engaged, I couldnt even get him to sit down and set a date.
Kim froze as Helena gave her a pitying yet smug smile and disappeared out of the room. Her wolf
snarled at the retreating female while Kim tried to stop herself from howling in anger.
Christine could sense Kims unease. I take it you didnt know, said the older woman quietly.
No, replied Kim tersely. If youll excuse me, Im going out for a walk.
With that, Kim ran out of the room like shed been shot, and Christine quickly left to find Ed.

Chapter Five
Kim! Wait, please.
Kim ignored him and strode to the beach. Ed finally caught her and grasped her arm; Kim rounded
on him and with blazing amber eyes, she snarled.
Why didnt you tell me?
He faltered at the hurt look in her eyes and his wolf howled at him to fix this. He couldnt stand to see
his mate hurt. Kim, gorgeous, I didnt want you to think that she meant anything to me.
Kim threw up her arms. Ed, you were going to marry her! Did you not think that maybe I should
have known something like that? Yeesh, he hadnt even bothered to tell her that Helena even existed
before they reached the island, and then he had lied about how important she was to him. Why was he
keeping secrets from her? Shed told him every rotten last detail about her romantic past, and yet he
couldnt even mention he had been engaged before?! Even her wolf, who was usually on Eds side,
was having her doubts.
Kim felt tears welling. Do you still love her?
Ed looked like hed been slapped, and his wolf whined at the thought. No, Kim. I love you, and only
you. He took hold of her rigid arms and was thankful she didnt move away from him. I never
loved Helena.
But you were going to marry her! blurted Kim in frustration. Helena was with him for three
months, and she managed to get a proposal out of him. Kim had been with him for about five, and
she could barely even get him to spend a whole weekend with her!
I never wanted to marry her. I only went out with her because Olivia set it up, and Helenas mom
was friendly with my mom. Plus I felt sorry for her; Helena had a rough time after her father died. I
was just being nice. Then, when we started dating, I realized we had nothing in common. But every
time I tried to break things off she just cried and went on and on about her father, and I didnt have the
heart to go through with it.
Kims claws lengthened as her beast grew more and more impatient. But you proposed! Lord, they
were going round in freaking circles!
I dont even remember proposing! he yelled in frustration. His wolf snapped his jaws at him, and
Ed immediately calmed. There was no point in getting angry with Kim; this was his fault and he
wasnt explaining it very well.
He rubbed his thumbs over the smooth flesh of her arms and almost died when he saw the pain in her
emerald eyes. Gorgeous, the truth is, I barely remember proposing. We met up one night, and I was
going to break things off, and the next thing I knew, I woke up the next day with vague memories of
proposing marriage.
Kims face was stony, and her wolf was unrepentant. So you were drunk? Should I be worried about
any other ex-fiances climbing out of the woodwork? Because you are no stranger to alcohol.

Eds jaw ticked. I had a glass or two of wine, but I wasnt drunk. The truth is Ed closed his eyes;
the only other person hed told this to was his brother Jonathan, as he was the only member of his
family who would believe him. No one else would believe that Helena would be so devious, but
Jonathan would believe anything of anyone. I dont think I was in the right frame of mind when I
asked her to marry me.
What? asked Kim crisply.
I think Helena may have slipped something into my drink to make me a bit more malleable.
Kim blinked. Youre kidding?
Helena works as a pharmaceutical sales rep; if she wanted to get something, she could. Its the only
explanation I can think of. I lost just about all my memory of that night, and I felt groggy for days
afterwards. I would never have asked her to marry me if I were in my right mind.
Kim looked at him doubtfully, but her wolf was stirring at this idea, and Kim did have to admit that he
looked very earnest. She didnt know much about Helena, but due to her own jealousy, it would suit
her down to the ground if Helena were as manipulative as Ed claimed. It all sounded kind of
reasonable, in an outlandish soap opera kind of way
Why was she so desperate to marry you if she knew you werent into her?
Other than my good looks and charm? he looked at her hopefully, trying to inject a smidge of
humor, but she merely glared at him in return, and his shoulders slumped a little. It was just for
money.
I cant believe you have enough money to warrant drugging you.
Ed gave her a half-smile and his wolf sighed. Of course, she couldnt, money wasnt important to
Kim. She might look like an Amazon warrior, but inside she was the sweetest person he ever met.
That wasnt to say she couldnt be downright fierce when roused, though.
My family owns their own private island. People have killed for a lot less. Helenas dad was almost
as rich as my grandmother, but a year ago it turned out all of his wealth was built on a ponzi scheme,
and hed been stealing other peoples money. He got a tip-off that he was about to be arrested, and he
killed himself.
Kim chewed on a plump lip. Jeez, thats awful.
Helena and her dad werent exactly close but she does want to be rich again. She went through
dozens of other rich men until she got to me. Im just lucky I managed to escape her clutches.
So youre glad she slept with Jonathan?
She had no idea how glad he was; it gave him the perfect reason to get rid of the single, red wolf
female. Lets just say I wasnt sad." And in the interest of full disclosure I told Jonathan about my
suspicions and asked him to help me get rid of her. I had no idea he would seduce her like that, but, it
got the job done.
She frowned. So if you ever want to break up with me, can I expect a visit from Jonathan too?
Ed let out an almost feral growl. I would never let him near you. Youre mine! His wolf roared

possessively.
Kim looked out at the water. She wanted to believe him so much, but if Helena didnt matter, why
hadnt he told her?
I never wanted to tell you about Helena, because I never wanted you to meet her. I think shes
dangerous, and Ive been trying to tell that to Olivia too.
Are you keeping any other secrets from me?
Ed let his hands drop. Just one.
Kim flashed him a fearsome look that quickly turned to surprise as he sank to the ground in front of
her. She let him take her hands and gasped.
Kimberly Anne Hawkins, I never wanted to marry anyone until I met you. I love you, and I never
loved anyone before I met you. And the real reason I asked you to come here, was so that I could do
this. I know that this is a really crappy time to propose, and I dont even have my ring with me, but
please, please will you marry me? Will you bond with me? I cant live without you, Kim. His wolf
prowled in nervous anticipation.
Kim licked her lips as stray tears flowed down her cheeks. I cant live without you, either.
Ed beamed and jumped to his feet, pulling her into a hungry, wet kiss. Their wolves danced around
like happy puppies.
He pulled back and gave her a worried look. Wait, that was a yes, right?
She chuckled at his expression. Yes, idiot, its a big, fat yes.
Thank god.
They met for another toe-curling kiss. She felt her doubts and worries floating away like bubbles.
There, at that moment, they seemed so insignificant. Ed wanted to marry her and he wanted to bond
with her; he was going to be hers forever, and that was all that mattered.
*
Ed breathed a sigh of relief, and his wolf finally relaxed. Hed been waiting for this moment ever
since he first laid eyes on his delectable she-wolf. Hed known she was his the moment he caught
sight of her and scented her beautiful lavender fragrance. Now it was a just a short step to bonding
If hed had his way it wouldnt have been so long, but he hadnt wanted to rush her and scare her
away
*
14th September
Ed strolled into Bar Luna; he held his breath in anticipation, but was disappointed to see that curvy
Kim wasnt behind the bar. His wolf prowled impatiently. Hed been thinking of her ever since he
left her the night before.
The feel of her soft lips, her hands clutching his shoulders and her warm, soft body in his arms - it

had been exhilarating. His manhood had been at full attention since the moment she crushed her body
to his, and it didnt seem likely that it was going down anytime soon.
He rubbed his neck and thought of how badly the night had started, and wonderfully it had ended.
Theyd kissed and talked, and hours had just floated by. Hed never had such a strong, natural reaction
to a woman. Not that hed been surprised; he defied any man not to be enamored by the six-foot
goddess.
Instinctively, he believed her to be his mate, and lord, he prayed that she felt the same way too. If his
wolf had his way, they would have already mated and bonded. The beast was certainly pushing for
it
Ed said hello to Andy, the huge bear bartender, and ordered a beer.
Adam the Alpha came in the bar and gave Ed a sound slap on the back. Hey, couldnt stay away,
huh? Its good to see you.
After Ed stopped cringing he returned the sentiment. Adam ordered a beer and sat next to him.
No Kim tonight? asked Ed, seemingly indifferently. He could smell her lingering scent, and was
hoping she was nearby.
Adam arched an eyebrow. Shes probably in her office.
Ed smirked; ah, yes, her office, he knew it well.
The two of you seemed pretty cozy last night, said Adam cautiously.
Ed tensed and his wolf huffed. The wolf shifter sat next to him was an Alpha; he deserved respect and
Ed instinctively knew he should defer to him, but his wolf was immediately on alert regarding his
mate. What of it? he asked quietly.
Adam frowned. I know that red wolf shifters look down on us hillbilly greys
Ed winced; it was true of many red wolves. Red wolves were more like yuppies, while greys were
blue collar; hence the different dynamics of the different packs.
But, Id hate to think that you were planning on leading Kim on and hurting her. I dont think my
wolf would like you toying with one of my pack mates because you have a school boy crush on her,
and you thought it might be fun to fool around with a hillbilly.
Ed let out a growl as his eyes turned amber and his fangs and claws came out to play. Andy was a
little taken aback but Adam shook his head at him, and Andy moved on.
I have no intention of hurting her, spat out Ed, barely holding onto himself.
His wolf was snarling. She was his mate; finding her meant everything to him. He didnt like this
other male insinuating otherwise. His wolf wanted to shift and challenge this other male. For one
thing that would be suicide, and for another, challenging his mates Alpha certainly wasnt going to
end well
Adam gauged his reaction. You think its something more than just a crush?
Eds jaw ticked as he considered his options. He doubted the Alpha wouldnt be discreet. I do, he

admitted stiffly, but I havent said anything to her, so Id appreciate it if you didnt either.
Adam inclined his head in agreement.
Eds wolf settled a little. I take it you dont have a problem with one of your pack mating a red
wolf?
Not at all; my pack members are free to mate with any species they choose. I do, however, ask that
you take it easy with Kim. Dont rush her, for both your sakes.
Ed looked at the large Alpha suspiciously, and Adam laughed. Look, youve got nothing to fear
from me where Kims concerned. She made it very clear when she was 9-years-old and her kicked
me in the shin and ran off with my football that I was far too bossy for her. But, she had a rough time
with her worthless ex; and since then, every time a guy tries to get close she tosses him out on his ass.
Good guys, too.
Not good enough, thought Ed irritably. Are you telling me this out of the goodness of your heart?
Adam grinned. Sure; Im all heart. Just take it easy; take your time, get to know her and Jamie.
Adam got up and gave Ed another punishing slap on the back. And dont hurt her.
Eds wolf snapped his fangs together. Or else
Nothing; just dont hurt her.
Adam hailed some pack mates and moved away. Ed frowned but soon smiled when he spotted Kim
heading his way. A devastating smile broke out over her lovely face and his wolf whimpered in
satisfaction.
Alright, yeah, he could go slowly; he could woo her. It went against his beasts wishes, but if it meant
that Kim would be his, then it was definitely worth the wait. Hed do whatever it took. Mine.
*
Present day
He clutched at her hand as he led her back through the house. I was thinking that I would move to
Rose, I figured I could stay with you guys until we found our own house. If we cant find a suitable
one, we could have one built Hed had a really long time to think about this.
Kim stopped him. Wait, are you saying that you would leave your pack and join mine?
Ed shrugged. Well, yeah. Ive given it a lot of thought, and I think its the best option.
But its your pack
He shook his head. Pack doesnt mean the same thing to red wolves that it does to greys. Were
more like an organization than a family, and I wouldnt want you or Jamie to leave your family. That
is, if you think your pack will have me.
Kim giggled as her wolf yapped gleefully. Are you kidding? My Alpha loves you; honestly, Im a
little jealous of the bromance you two have got going on.
Ed chuckled in return. Actually, Adam did offer me a job working as legal advisor for the pack

construction company.
Oh! she exclaimed in surprise, are you going to take it?
I told him Id have to discuss it with you first. What do you think?
Kim shuffled from foot to foot. Well, what do you think?
It would mean Id be closer to you and Jamie, less hours, less stress, I love the idea. Honestly he
did; before he met Kim he had been focused on his career, and becoming the youngest partner his law
firm ever had. Since meeting Kim, hed lost his drive for work, and slowly she had taken over as his
obsession.
I love it too, she said in relief. She brushed her lips over his. But enough of this stalling, where is
my engagement ring?
Ed rolled his eyes exaggeratedly. Thats your favorite part of getting engaged isnt it? The ring.
She waggled her eyebrows. Damn straight, now gimme.
Ed chuckled and led her into his room. She immediately spread herself out on the bed in a seductive
pose. Ooh, I feel so naughty being here in your room. Shall we fool around? Do we dare risk it?
He opened a draw and was about to answer when he frowned. He started rooting around, pulling out
clothes. Fuck!
She sat up. Whats wrong?
Your ring; its gone.

Chapter Six
18th February
Kim stretched and spread out on the bed. Lord, this was the most comfortable bed she ever slept in,
and probably cost more than all her furniture put together, she thought sourly. Not that it mattered;
shed sleep on a park bench if she had Ed beside her.
Her wolf yipped excitedly remembering the night before. Yep, they were getting married. Should
they have a big wedding? What should her dress look like? How many bridesmaids should she
have? Okay, easy girl. One thing at a time, they still have to find the ring.
Although she hadnt minded, she didn't really need a ring, Ed had been livid. Ed was adamant that
someone had taken it, but Kim was hopeful that hed just forgotten where hed put it. Shed soothed
him a little before she found Jamie and took herself off to bed. Hopefully, hed be a little calmer
today.
Kim sniffed and smiled as she scented Ed. She opened her eyes and sat up to find Jamie and Ed trying
to build a playing card house. Mmmmm, morning.
Mommy! squealed Jamie, look what we made!
Very impressive.
Jamie then snapped a hand out and knocked it over. She giggled at seeing Eds mock look of horror.
Kim creased her brow as she looked at Jamie. Sweetie, who did your hair?
Ed, Jamie told her proudly as both she and the red wolf gave her happy grins.
Kim tried to stifle her smirk. Wow, babe, I had no idea that you could braid hair, Im very
impressed. Perhaps you could paint my toenails later.
Ed raised an eyebrow suggestively. I know youre kidding but I would love that.
Jamie frowned with an adorable look of confusion on her small face. Why would you love touching
mommys feet?
Kim blushed a little and Ed clapped his hands together. Right then, time for us to go for a swim.
Kim rubbed the sleep out of her eyes and saw that both Jamie and Ed were already kitted out in their
swimsuits. Youre disturbingly perky this morning.
He shrugged. Were on a beautiful island and Im with my two favorite girls why wouldnt I be
perky?
Its been a long time since anyone called me a girl. Okay, now Im perky. She threw back the
covers, grabbed her costume and strode to the bathroom to change.
Ed took a moment to admire her long shapely legs. They just go on and on and on His wolf
snapped at him; he was almost drooling.
Minutes later, Ed was giving Jamie a piggyback as he followed Kim to the pool. He watched the sway

of her ass and was almost salivating. How long had it been since they were last together? Jeez, an
hour felt like too long at that moment. Thankfully, he was saved from looking like too much of a
leering pervert by Jamie, who urged him to hurry to the pool.
Kim held back a groan as they found almost everyone else already gathered around the pool.
Apparently, they had the same idea of an early morning swim too. Jamie wriggled until Ed put her
down, and she ran over to the other pups to play in the shallow pool.
Ed and Kim bade hello to everyone and were met by various desultory greetings in return. Other than
Marie and Jonathan, everyone else was present. They were sat around the pool reading from books,
tablets and electronic reading devices, and generally ignoring each other.
Kim noticed, with some irritation, that Helena was currently lying on a lounger in a skimpy red bikini
with gold links. The gold looked good against her tanned skin, and the shining sun picked out the
golden flecks of her auburn hair.
Feeling a little self-conscious, Kim picked a sun lounger as far away as possible from everyone else.
She knew she was good looking; its just that her own skin was kind of pale and freckly. She wasnt
exactly a friend of the sun. Did you know everyone would be here?
He chuckled. No, but I should have. I mentioned I was thinking about having a morning swim last
night; I guess they all thought it was a good idea too. They just look like red wolves theyre really
sheep.
Kim watched as Jamie splashed and giggled with the young boys. Oh well, its not like she had
anything to be ashamed of. She pulled off her oversized shirt to reveal a modest cut, dark blue
swimsuit.
Ed licked his lips as his wolf growled softly in approval. Mmmm, very nice.
She slapped his arm. It was the most sensible swimsuit she could find; the idea of flitting about in a
two-piece in front of his parents left her cold. She wasnt there to impress anyone with a show of
skin, although, looking at Helena she was kind of having second thoughts
Ed pulled off his own shirt displaying his taut muscles. Her wolf mewled happily. Not so bad
yourself, she purred.
Amber started seeping into his eyes, and his expression was downright wolfish. You know, I bet they
wouldnt miss us for a few minutes, maybe we should go inside
A few minutes? she asked in disbelief.
Gorgeous, we havent had sex in a week, well be lucky if I last more than a few seconds.
Kim rolled her eyes. Boy, that sounds tempting. Ed grinned and started reaching out his hands to
her hips, and she placed a palm on his chest. But how about you cool off instead?
She gave an almighty push sending Ed flailing backward into the pool. The kids giggled while Eds
mother, Marguerite, Christine, Jennifer and Olivia clapped. Eds father, shouted bravo. Harold Jr.
clucked his tongue at them before returning to reading the news.
Ed spluttered and splashed her. Very funny.

She chuckled and gingerly climbed in. He immediately grabbed her and gave her a hungry kiss. Her
wolf huffed as Kim pulled away from the embrace far too soon.
Ed pursed his lips as his own wolf grunted in frustration. There were only so many cold showers he
could take before he exploded.
Seeing the hurt look on his face, she relented and allowed him to pull her back into his arms. Im
sorry; I just dont want to go too far in front of your family. I already feel like theyre judging me, I
dont want them thinking Im completely wanton.
Whats wrong with being wanton? If you ask me, its a highly underrated quality.
Kim flicked water in his face. Olivias giving us some funny looks.
Ed maneuvered them so he could catch a glimpse of her. Sure enough, she looked pale and uneasy.
Probably the PDAs, not something shes used to in my family.
Sometimes Ed found it amazing that his parents had ever managed to have one son, never mind five.
They were warm and loving to their children, but not touchy feely. And they never held each other s
hands or kissed or even gave each other a friendly pat on the back in public. He dreaded to think what
happened in private. As for his stuffy eldest brother, Harold Jr., Ed just assumed there was some kind
of cabbage patch deal with his kids.
Does kissing really bother her?
Im pretty sure shes still a virgin; Ive never seen her even kiss her boyfriend.
Kims wolf snorted. She could see why. Kurt was okay looking, but he had shifty eyes and she just
got the impression he was slimy. It wasnt anything he said or did it was just something he put out
there. Plus, she was kind of concerned that something might be going on with him and Helena.
Although, she wasnt ready to impart that to Ed until she was sure there was something there.
Otherwise, she would come off like a jealous harpy, and she wasnt jealous of Helena. She had no
reason to be jealous. Stupid, red wolf bitch.
Ed looked thoughtful for a moment. Im not really sure what Olivias birth family was like; they
died when she was 11, and thats when mom and dad adopted her.
Her wolf whined in sadness. I had no idea, poor Olivia.
Yeah, its been rough on her, but she had Will, they were inseparable when they were younger, and
he seemed to help her.
Kim dared a glance at Will; he looked just as pained as Olivia. I didnt think they were that close;
they barely spoke a word to each other at dinner.
Theyve had a falling out, but they wont say about what. Hes another virgin; he spends all day
fiddling with computers and has no idea how to talk to women. He tried to imagine Will with a
woman and came up blank.
Awww, I think hes a sweetie.
Ed and his wolf grumbled at that. They did not like their mate thinking of anyone else as a sweetie.

Did you find the ring? she asked carefully.

No, he replied tersely. He knew he wouldnt. It had been in the drawer with his shirts; he
remembered very clearly putting it there. Someone had deliberately stolen it. And he had a good idea
who. Jonathans looking for it.
Where do you think it is? she asked quietly. She already knew what he was going to say.
Ed gave her a small smile. Hes checking Helenas room. I figured if Helena noticed someone had
been in there, shed think it was me, so Im establishing my alibi
No kidding Miss Marple
While he looks. Hed do anything for money.
Doesnt he already have lots of money?
He groaned. No one can spend money as quickly as he can.
Seriously, Ed wasnt kidding. Of course, it was never a good idea to give cars to girls youre about
to dump to soften the blow. Especially if your relationships last less than two weeks
Kim gave him a quick peck before moving off to swim laps. Ed moved to the side of the pool and
watched her graceful form undulating through the water. Pure bliss.
After a while, Kim took Jamie off to bathe and dress, and everyone else started to do the same. Ed
tensed as he saw Helena starting to move into the house but relaxed when Jonathan sauntered out.
Jonathan shook his head, and Eds wolf growled inwardly.
He pulled himself out of the water and started drying himself angrily. He was trying to be patient and
he was trying to logical, but he was furious. He knew it was just a ring, and that Kim had already
agreed to marry him, but it was the principal. He wanted the darn thing on her finger, showing
everyone that she belonged to him.
Ed had a bad feeling that his family might try to object to his engagement to Kim. Although they
were polite to Kim, he worried that certain members of his family wouldnt welcome her with open
arms. He was particularly thinking of his brother and his father Although his father appeared easy
going like Ed and Jonathan, he was actually uptight and ruthless like his eldest son. Well, his father
hadnt remained the Alpha of their pack for over twenty years for nothing
Although Ed and his eldest brother didnt get along, he respected him a little more than he did their
father. Harold Jr. made no bones about the kind of guy he was, he laid it out on the table, but his
father pretended he was a good guy. He really wasnt.
Ed recalled the time when Jonathan brought home the most recent love of his life just under a couple
of years ago. She was a sweet fox shifter called Ingrid, who had once worked as an exotic dancer
His family was seemingly nice to her, but when Jonathan declared that he wanted to marry her, the
gloves came off. The fox was soon dispatched. Jonathan seemed to bounce back, but Ed detected that
a certain amount of hurt lingered and Jonathan would never talk about her.
He needed to make it clear to his family just how serious he was about Kim, and that, in spite of any
objections they may have, he was going to marry Kim. This moment had been a long time coming,

and he wasnt about to allow anything to get in the way.

Ed made his way over to Jonathan, who had stripped off his shirt and was sprawled on a lounger with
one arm slung over his face. He sniffed as Ed came near. I searched all over; it wasnt in her room.
When do I get my money?
Ed rolled his eyes. Ill wire you the money when we get home.
You better; Im going to Vegas in two weeks, Ill need it.
Ed shook his head and left him. Both he and Jonathan received the same allowance. But other than
for Kims missing engagement ring, which was extortionately expensive, hed barely touched his
money. It all went into a savings account that he figured would do nicely as a college fund for Jamie
and any other kids they had.
He smiled as his wolf almost panted at the thought of having pups with Kim. They already had Jamie,
but hed like a boy or two and maybe another girl. They had their whole lives spread out in front of
them, and he couldnt wait.
*
Kim led a chattering Jamie through the house. Jamie asked her numerous questions about her new
red wolf friends and without waiting for answers, continued talking. Did she know that they all had
their own TVs in their rooms? Did she know that they had their own swimming pool? Did she know
that they were allowed to pick out whatever toys they wanted when they went to the mall?
Kim didnt know any of this but wasnt overly surprised.
They made it to their room and Kim was surprised to find Marie, Eds grandmother, standing further
down the hallway, looking at her feet. With her sharpened hearing, she could hear Marie mumbling
the words pills and not sure.
Are you alright, Marie? called Kim as she maneuvered Jamie into their room and told her to play
quietly.
The elderly woman she-wolf looked up in a daze and blinked at Kim owlishly. Kim was a little taken
aback; Marie looked so small and frail at that moment. She knew the older woman must be
somewhere in her 80s, but compared to the sharp, ramrod straight woman she met yesterday, she was
more like a shadow.
The whole point of coming to the island was to celebrate Maries birthday, but Ed had no idea how
old his grandmother would be. The year of her birth was apparently a closely guarded secret that she
would take to her grave. Ed had also stipulated that his grandmother detested receiving presents and
above all would not have a birthday cake. God help anyone who tried to sing at her. Kim had
sarcastically thought that it sounded like one hell of a party, but she was getting a free holiday. So,
who was she to complain?
Who is that? asked Marie, in a mixture of fear and suspicion.
Kim took a step toward her and was surprised when the older woman bared her teeth, and a small
growl escaped her.

Kims own wolf started to sit up and take notice, but Kim soothed her; the red she-wolf was just
disorientated, she wasnt threatening them. Kim held up her hands. Its Kim.
Marie looked at her in puzzlement. Kim? She furrowed her brow for a few moments, before a
look of realization passed over her face. Oh, of course, Kim. Forgive me ImI must be a little
tired.
Kim approached her carefully. Do you need me to do anything?
I think Id like to lie down.
Kim held out her arm but almost darted up the wall when Harold Jr. snapped at her. What are you
doing?
He rushed forward and took hold of his grandmother. Yeesh, anyone would think that Kim was trying
to steal his favorite toy. I was just trying to help.
Im perfectly capable of helping my grandmother, thank you, he replied stiffly.
As muddled as Marie was at that moment, she still managed to give an exaggerated eye roll as Harold
led her away.
Kim sighed. Harold Jr. did not like her. That was pretty darn obvious. Why she had no idea, and
nor did she really care, but for Eds sake she would put up with it. She would go through just about
anything to be with Ed. Hot coals, broken glass bring it on.
She'd felt a connection to him the moment she saw him, and on their first date, she knew she wanted to
be with him forever.
*
21st September
Kim grunted.
Breathe in, honey.
I am; if I breathe in anymore, I might just inhale all the furniture in the room.
Kim tensed as her mom finally pulled up the zipper. Yes! exclaimed Angela in triumph. You can
relax; youre in.
Kim stood up straight and let out a testing breath. Okay, it wasnt too bad. As long as she took
shallow breaths and didnt eat anything shed be fine. Although, her breasts seemed to be trying to
make a break for it they were pushing the fabric of the dress to breaking point. Ed would probably
like that.
You look beautiful, gushed Angela as she led Kim over to the chair and started pinning back her
hair.
Thanks Mom, said Kim smiling nervously.
It was her first date in, oh, about six years, and she was just a tad anxious. Since meeting Ed, he had
been a regular visitor to Bar Luna. They had flirted, talked, made out and then talked some more.

Kim was pleased that Ed hadnt tried to push her too fast too quickly. It annoyed the heck out of her
wolf who was all for ravishing the young red wolf on the spot, but Kim was relieved. She didnt need
some pushy asshole; shed dated plenty of them over the years and ended up married to one. She
hated the 'me wolf, you wolf, we mate,' caveman bullshit. She wanted someone who would actually
take things a little more slowly, and get to know her. And shed found him.
And tonight was the night they would go on their first date. She felt as nervous as a 16-year-old
who'd just been asked out by her high school crush.
Shed pulled her date clothes out of retirement, and settled on her favorite - her little black dress. Or
rather, her sexy, men fall at my feet, dress. It was just a tiny bit tighter than she remembered. It must
have shrunk while it was hiding in the back of her closet. Yep, no other explanation for it.
Her mom carefully finished her hair and Kim applied a thin layer of make-up. Not too much and not
too little.
Angela beamed at her in the mirror. I gotta get to work, honey. I love you. She kissed the top of
her daughter s head.
Kim blew her a kiss as she left.
Knock him dead, called out Angela as she left.
Angela usually worked at the hardware store in town. The store was owned by a local coyote shifter
who found that Angela was good for business. Men seemed to get a kick out of buying hardware
from an attractive six-foot she-wolf. More than once, an unsuspecting male customer had wandered
in looking for nails and come out with several new power tools he had no idea he needed. However,
that night she was covering Kims shift at Bar Luna. Angela insisted; she was more than a little keen
for her daughter to get out and enjoy herself.
Kim stiffly got to her feet and made her way downstairs. She started walking laps of the living room,
hoping to loosen up the dress a little. Jamie huffed at Kim every time she walked in front of the TV.
Jamie was sat watching her favorite TV show, Emily Wolf of Wolften Hollow. It was a very basic
cartoon show about a young wolf shifter called Emily. It was heavy on moral messages about being
kind to others and not judging people based on their species. Although Jamie knew every episode
inside out, she would watch them over and over again.
Mommy! admonished Jamie, dark red pigtails bobbing, as Kim stopped in front of the TV to check
her watch.
Kim groaned and decided to walk around the kitchen instead. As nervous as she was about the actual
date, and the fact that she was worried about splitting the seams of her dress, she was a little agitated
that the babysitter hadnt arrived.
She usually hired the twin sisters of their packs Chief Enforcer, Acksel, but, tonight, both Gwen and
Britt were busy. Instead, Kim had hired the daughter of her moms boss. Hannah was a sweet girl but
a little flaky, and easily distracted.
Kim grabbed her phone and almost jumped as it rang in her hand. She answered to find Hannah on
the other end. Hannahs grandmother had been injured in a car accident, and the whole family was at
the hospital waiting for news. The young coyote was sorry that she wouldnt be able to make it for

her babysitting duty. Kim grudgingly had to admit that was a good reason for canceling, and then she
felt bad for thinking uncharitable thoughts about Hannah. She told the coyote shifter that she hoped
her grandmother was okay and rang off.
Crap! She needed to find a replacement and pronto. There was a sudden rap at the front door, and
Kim groaned. Of course, he would be on time. If only he werent so thoughtful!
She went to the door and flung it open to be met by a beaming Ed holding a huge bouquet of flowers.
Ed took her in, head to toe. Wow! he breathed, just wow.
Kim, in spite of herself, blushed at his lusty gaze and felt her womb flutter as she surveyed him. He
was dressed in a well-cut black suit, with a white shirt. It showed off his trim, tight figure to
perfection, but certainly didnt do anything to hide the prominent bulge in his trousers. It gave her a
thrill to see how turned on he was.
Are those for me? she asked inclining her head toward the mixture of lilies and lavender.
Nah, I just like carrying around flowers, it makes me feel muy macho.
They suit you.
She giggled and took them from him. He leaned in and gave her a soft kiss on the lips, eliciting a
sweet moan from her.
You ready to go?
Kim inwardly sighed. Im sorry; my babysitter canceled. I dont have anyone to watch Jamie.
Ed shrugged. Its fine, you know, we dont have to go out. We could just stay in and order a pizza.
Really? Kim felt a glimmer of elation and her wolf yipped.
It wasnt that Kim didnt want to go out to a fancy restaurant and be wined and dined actually it was
kind of that. She really was more of a pizza and beer kind of girl. But she had been worried that Ed
was expecting something a little bit more sophisticated from her. He had been happy to drink in Bar
Luna, but he did kind of stick out. Not that Kim thought that there was anything wrong with that. Eds
well-tailored form and freshly shaven face were a welcome relief from the uncouth louts that made
up the majority of her regulars.
Of course. Ed looked round her. So, do I get to meet Jamie?
Oh! she exclaimed, surprised at the hopefulness in his eyes. Well, I, umm, suppose so.
Ed beamed and Kim tried to smile back, but her stomach seemed to have turned to jelly. Over the past
week, she had briefly considered about how she would broach the subject of mommy dating to
Jamie, but she just hadnt realized it would happen quite so soon.
She led him into the house and had a brief panic before her wolf told her to pull it together. Damnit,
she was a feisty she-wolf; she could handle her boyfriend meeting her daughter. She hoped.
Kim led Ed into the living room, and Jamie managed to wrench her gaze away from the TV to look
Ed up and down; a shy look stole over her little face.

Jamie, this is Mommys friend, Ed. Ed, this is Jamie.

Hello, Jamie, said Ed, warmly.
She gave him a small wave, and Ed plonked himself on the floor next to her. What you watching?
Emily Wolf of Wolften Hollow, she replied in a small voice.
A look of excitement flitted over Eds face. No way, I love this show!
Jamie giggled. No you dont.
Ed nodded fervently. Yes, I do, its my favorite show.
No, youre too old, she told him censoriously.
Ed affected a wounded look, which just made her giggle even more. Well, I guess I cant watch this
with you then.
Ed pulled out a DVD from behind his back, and Jamies face lit up. It contained brand new episodes
of the cartoon, not yet broadcast on TV. She squealed and grabbed it out of his hands.
Kim let out a breath she didnt know shed been holding, and her wolf roared in contentment. That
was it; now, Jamie loved him. What do you say?
Thank you, mumbled Jamie as she started pulling the disc out the case. Kim and Ed might as well
have been invisible now.
Kim motioned with her head, and Ed followed her into the kitchen.
Does she need help with that?
Kim shook her head and put her hands on his shoulders. No, shes better at working the DVD player
than I am. Im impressed, by the way.
Ed placed his hands on her waist. Thank you, its a reaction Im used to. Im pretty impressive.
Hmmmm, modest too.
She brushed his lips with hers, and he moaned lightly. He smiled. So, how about that pizza?
Kim chewed her lip. Are you sure you dont mind staying in?
Of course not, I prefer it.
Kim raised an eyebrow. Really?
Yeah, really. If I took you out wearing that Id spend the evening having to threaten all of the other
males drooling after you.
Her lips curled up as her hands artfully made their way down his torso and round his back until they
rested on his ass. How about me? How could I stand all those other females leering at this gorgeous
tushie? Her wolf concurred; no other female should be looking at him.
Ed, likewise, found her ass. Tushie?
Mmmm hmmmm, gorgeous tushie.

Besides, Im glad I got a chance to meet Jamie. I hope she likes me.
Kim was amazed at the sudden worry she noted in the usually confident and easy-going wolf. Im
sure she will.
He waggled his eyebrows. Well, whats not to like?
She swatted his ass. You really care, dont you? About Jamie liking you?
Yeah, I mean, Im hoping, that Im going to be around for a while.
He gave her such a puppy dog look that she couldnt help the chuckle that bubbled out of her, but she
soon sobered.
I think youre my mate, she blurted and then cringed at her forwardness. Her beast, on the other
hand, was dancing about gleefully. The wolf was all for telling him the first day they met.
Ed studied her quietly, and she was suddenly hit by a twinge of doubt that he didnt feel the same way.
I didnt mean to freak you out. She started trying to wriggle out of his arms, but he clamped his
hands on her body.
I feel the same way, he told her thickly. I felt it the first moment I saw you and scented you you
smell like lavender by the way.
He started nuzzling her neck and she let out a sigh of relief. You smell like clean clothes, she
murmured distractedly as he kissed her neck.
A rumbling laugh shook his chest. Mmmm, sexy.
Yes, it is, she reassured him. He was sexy, beautiful, funny, wonderful, smart and just perfect for
her in every way. At that moment, she knew she never wanted to live without him.

Chapter Seven
Present day
Kim tried not to look too guilty or too happy as Ed rubbed her thigh under the table. They were
eating a late breakfast; everyone but Harold Jr., Helena and Kurt were present. The room was quiet
except for the clicking of Judys knitting needles. Kim couldnt care less about Harold, less was
definitely more with him, but she was starting to worry what the twin absences of Kurt and Helena
meant.
Kim let out a small gasp as Eds hand became bolder. Olivia gave her an odd look, and Kim flushed.
Her wolf panted at the tingling feeling Eds touch elicited, but she was a little concerned that all the
other wolves in the room might detect her heightened arousal, so she carefully removed his hand. He
mouthed the word spoilsport at her.
Marguerite shivered and looked out the window. Its suddenly become very dull outside.
Everyone turned and looked. Sure enough, the sky had darkened and clouded over; the sun was no
longer visible.
Harold Jr. stomped into the room and dropped his tablet onto the table. Theres a storm coming in
quickly. Those idiot weather wizards never get anything right.
Christine murmured her agreement to her husband, and he gave her shoulder a quick squeeze before
loading up his plate with bacon, sausages and eggs.
Hopefully, the worst of it will just pass us by, but we need to close up the house and stay indoors, and
absolutely no one is to try to go anywhere by boat. Understand?
He looked around the room at everyone accusingly until they all agreed with him. Happy that
everyone was in compliance he began wolfing his meal.
Helena sighed. Well, this is going to be boring then, isnt it? Whats the point of being in the
Caribbean if youre stuck indoors?
Harold Jr. glared at her and was about to open his mouth when Christine interrupted. Theres plenty
we can do; we have lots of games. She rubbed her husbands arm and he was slightly mollified.
Jonathan fixed Kim with a particularly lascivious smile. Yes, well just have to enjoy some indoor
sports.
Kim rolled her eyes, and Ed let out a low warning growl to his brother, who in turn laughed so hard
he almost fell off his seat.
Harold Sr. huffed. Hes not wrong. He cast a disapproving glare on his son, Arthur. Perhaps if
you spent more time inside with your wife, instead of out drinking with god only knows who, you
might have actually produced a child by now.
Jennifer tried to make herself look as small as possible while Arthur looked outraged.
He has a point, agreed Marguerite, youve been married for seven years, dear, people are starting

to talk.
Arthur s eyes flashed to amber. Its none of their business, and its none of yours either.
He stood up and stormed out of the room. Jennifer quietly excused herself and followed.
Ed was trying to communicate with Kim through eyebrow gestures. She wasnt entirely sure, but she
gathered that he was making a point as to why he hadnt introduced her to his family sooner. He had
quite expressive eyebrows.
Marie cast her eyes in Olivias direction. What about you, young lady?
Olivia almost choked. Youre not expecting me to produce a child are you?
Of course not, dear, replied Marie smoothly. But, isnt it about time that you considered whether
you were serious about that boy youve brought with you, she said referring to Kurt. Or whether
you would want an arranged marriage.
Grandmother! exclaimed Olivia.
Im sure she will make up her own mind, growled Will.
Well, she cant leave it too long. If she wants to make a proper match, it should happen now.
Harold! Marie looked to her eldest grandson who tried not to let the annoyance show on his face.
Have you considered whether you could make a match for her with another pack?
Olivia threw down her napkin and got up to leave. This is unbelievable!
She scrambled out of the room, and Will gave his grandmother and Harold Jr. a reproving glance
before leaving.
Drop the subject, ordered Harold Jr.
Marie sniffed. If she gets any older, she wont be able to make a match. I understand the son of the
Rosen pack Alpha is ready to settle down; their connections would be excellent for our pack.
I will not force her into an arranged marriage, replied Harold Jr. roughly. I am the Alpha, and I
said to drop it.
And I control the family money and deserve a say in how things are run, she said with some relish.
A flash of irritation marred his features. Excuse me, he hissed, before walking out of the room
stiffly.
Christine gave everyone a small smile, before corralling her sons and following her mate.
Marie flashed a triumphant smile before she let out a sigh of displeasure when Judy told her it was
time for her medication. She grumbled as Judy led her out the room.
Harold Sr. excused himself to start closing up the house and Marguerite went off in search of the staff.
Kim let out a long breath. Good lord! Theyd seemed so normal yesterday. Had everyone had a
personality transplant overnight?
Ed gave her an apologetic smile while Jonathan got up to pour himself a glass of whiskey. He raised

his glass. Welcome to the family, Kim. Take my advice, start drinking now.
*
Kim tried to make herself invisible behind a huge, overhanging plant. She wasnt exactly the best at
hide-and-seek - the game wasnt designed for six-foot she-wolves. But Jamie insisted both she and Ed
play, and given that vicious torrents of rain and wind were now pelting against the house, they were
happy to do anything to distract the pups. At that moment, Ed and Jamie were counting and would
come looking for her any second.
Kim pushed herself against the wall as she heard voices coming her way. She considered whether she
should jump out and shout boo at them. Jamie loved that, and it always sent her into fits of giggles.
She froze as she realized the voices didnt belong to Jamie or Ed. She sniffed and groaned inwardly
as she scented Jonathan and Jennifer. She spent a couple of seconds agonizing over whether she
should duck out of her hiding spot or just stay where she was and hope they didnt see her. They were
already pretty close, and she would most likely startle them if she did leap out.
Im sorry to put you in this position, its just that I cant talk to Arthur anymore, murmured Jennifer.
Its fine, replied Jonathan smoothly, jackass doesnt know how lucky he is to have you.
Kim closed her eyes and prayed to become invisible. It would be weird if she just suddenly appeared
now.
Jennifer grunted. Maybe if he did know, I wouldnt need to be with you.
Anytime you need me, you know where I am. Dont let my family push you around, youre far too
good for us.
Thank you, I dont know what Id do without you.
Kim heard the sound of a kiss and then retreating footsteps in opposite directions. She tensed as
Jonathan passed her, but thanked her lucky stars that he just kept on going.
When she was sure they were gone, she stumbled out of her hiding spot. Yeesh, what the heck was
that about?
Found you!
Kim jumped as Jamie threw herself at her, and wrapped herself around Kims legs.
You werent even trying to hide! complained Jamie, giving her a disapproving look.
Ed chuckled as he sauntered towards them. Yeah, Kim, you have to play properly.
Kim gave him the stink eye and considered telling him about what she just saw, but thought better of
it.
Instead, she pulled Jamie to her feet. So, who else have you found?
No one, Jamie told her excitedly.
Then lets go get them!

Jamie squealed and set off with Kim and Ed trailing after her.
The conversation between Jonathan and Jennifer was probably nothing, and it was none of her
business anyway. She should just forget she heard anything.
*
Kim settled back into Eds arms and ignored the flickering lights. It was late, and all the pups had
gone to bed. The adults, or at least everyone over the age of 18 with the exception of the house staff
George and Ethel, were in the living room. Although, calling any of them 'adult' was being generous.
The electricity was waving off and on, so numerous candles had been lit. The majority of the
assembled party, in frustration at not being able to watch TV and at getting very poor phone
reception, had taken to sniping at one another. Plus, the freely flowing alcohol wasnt helping.
Ed squeezed her and held her to him tightly. She suspected that he was worrying that she would be put
off marrying him by his familys behavior. He neednt fear anything; there was no way he was
getting rid of her. Hed have to change his name and move to a different country before he could
shake her, and even then that was no guarantee. Her wolf yowled in happy agreement.
At that moment, Harold Jr. was snapping at Jonathan, and Jonathan was easily goading him on. Kim
had missed the start of the argument, but soon it had devolved into Jonathan calling Harold an uptight
asshole, and Harold calling Jonathan a lazy wastrel.
Jonathan poured himself another scotch. Why dont you just take that stick out of your ass?
How dare you! roared Harold Jr., I am your Alpha, how dare you speak to me that way?
Jonathan snorted and downed his drink in one before refilling his glass.
Dont you think youve had enough, dear? asked his grandmother in annoyance.
He smiled at her before downing his next drink.
Christine was trying to sooth her husband. Calm down, darling, theres no need to get angry.
Dont patronize me, woman, he roared.
Dont talk to your mate that way! cried Olivia hotly.
Hes the Alpha, he can do as he chooses, said Marguerite primly.
Olivia folded her arms. That doesnt give him the right to treat her that way.
Its fine, muttered Christine.
He can do as he chooses with his mate, declared Harold Sr., flashing Olivia a reproving glance.
Father, please, began Will.
Quiet, William.
Arthur jumped up and got his own drink. For heavens sake, I dont know why the hell I agreed to
come here.
Jennifer snorted. Yes, you could have been miserable and drunk at home.

Kurt sighed. Maybe everyone should just calm down.

Youre not family, its nothing to do with you, sneered Harold Jr.
Not yet, murmured Helena.
Olivia flushed in embarrassment and Wills eyes bulged.
It was about as much as Kim could stand. Everyone, please, maybe its time we all went to bed.
And youre not part of our family either, snapped Harold Jr.
Kim and I are getting married! yelled Ed.
Everyone was silenced; the only sound was the clickety-clack of Judys knitting needles.
A mixture of angry and surprised eyes flashed in Kims direction. Terrific.
Is this a joke? asked Eds father. His voice was filled with quiet anger.
Kim became nervous. Suddenly, his familys opinion did matter. It was important if they were
opposed to their relationship.
Lord, it had been a long time since she was this nervous. The last time was when she and Ed were first
together
*
1st October
Hey, what else can I do?
Kim looked up to find Ed with his sleeves rolled up. It was the end of a long shift at Bar Luna and
Kim was cashing up while Ed tidied the bar. Ordinarily shed have kept the other bartender behind to
do the job, but Andy had been a bear with a sore head recently. Besides, it was any excuse to prolong
her time with Ed. Stack the chairs on top of the tables and give the floor a sweep. The cleaners will
be in tomorrow, so we dont need to do too much.
Ed treated her to a dazzling smile. You got it.
Thanks, babe.
He chuckled. Did you call me babe?
She fluttered her eyelids. Umm hmm.
He winked. I love it.
Kim smiled and finished her task. She grabbed the cash and took it back to her office to stash it in the
safe. She stood up and moaned as Ed snaked his arms round her waist. He flourished feathery kisses
over her neck.
Youre so beautiful, he murmured.
Her wolf growled lustily, and Kim pressed her back against him. She felt a mixture of delight and
anxiousness at feeling his hard erection pressing against her buttocks. She wanted him, boy did she,

but so far she hadnt done anything that would involve shedding her clothes. She was just terribly
nervous. They werent so much butterflies in her stomach as parading elephants.
He was more important than any other man who had wandered into her life, and that scared the hell
out of her. She needed him and needed him to need her. And she loved him. Yep, she freely admitted
to herself and her wolf that she loved him, and she was freaking scared of either losing him or
disappointing him.
Slowly, she allowed Ed to turn her around. He shook his head as he looked her up and down.
What?
He let out a soft chuckle. I just cant believe that you would want to be with me.
Kim ran her hands up his arms. Why wouldnt I? Whats so special about me?
Ed looked at her in disbelief. Youre kidding, right? I have to pinch myself every few seconds to
make sure Im not actually dreaming. I dont know what I did in a past life to deserve you, but damn, I
am thankful.
Kim looked away in embarrassment. Plenty of men had told her she was beautiful, usually to get into
her pants, but she couldnt believe that she deserved Eds worshipful gaze. You think too much of
me.
Gently, Ed cupped her chin and directed her gaze back to his. No, I dont, gorgeous.
He pressed his lips to hers for a tender kiss. As she clasped his body to hers, the kiss turned more
insistent, and his tongue delved into her mouth, hungrily teasing and tasting her. He ran his hands
over her body, searing a path over her sensitive flesh. Her body flushed and she quivered in his arms.
Reluctantly he pulled back. Its getting late.
Kim chewed her lip and her wolf whimpered. Dont go, she whispered.
His eyes flickered to the amber of his wolf, but doubt flashed over his face. We dont have to do
anything you dont want to.
She briefly considered that this wasnt exactly the most romantic setting for their first time together,
but she decided she didnt care. It didnt matter where they were - it didnt make a difference. She just
wanted to be with her mate.
Kim kissed the corner of his mouth. I want you. I need you mate.
Ed let out a throaty growl. She expected him to rush her, to rip her clothes off and plunge right into
her, but he didnt. Her legs trembled as Ed took in every inch of her body, as he carefully peeled the
clothing from her body, and kissed the skin he unveiled.
Her wolf howled with needy impatience, but Kim tried to ignore the beast. This passionate and slow
rise of her arousal was intoxicating, and part of her wanted it never to end, but her tempestuous wolf
would never allow it. She needed release.
Her breasts heaved as her desire swelled within her. He was wearing too many clothes, why was he
wearing so many clothes? Her hands excitedly pulled at his shirt and pants.

Hurry, she breathed.

He gave her a sensual smile and helped her with his clothes. Soon enough, they were stood in front
of each other, completely naked. Kim blushed but smiled as she took in his form. He was beautiful.
Truly, he was. Shed never thought that about a man. Hairy, yes. Rugged, yes. Beautiful, no. But,
there was no other word for him.
His lips curled upwards in wolfish smile as he surveyed her naked form. Unconsciously, she licked
her lips as his manhood grew even bigger and seemed to be reaching toward her. Yep, there was no
way she was a disappointment to him.
Ed led her over to the couch and laid her down. He knelt between her legs and bent down; he swiped
his tongue over her honey-drenched slit. She arched her back and let out an impassioned moan.
Finding her ready for him, he crawled over her body and nestled between her legs. He ground his sex
against her, and she whimpered.
Are you ready? he asked hoarsely, desire etched into his face.
Yes... mate.
Ed let out a small roar and smoothly pushed inside her. Her body shuddered at the delicious intruder,
and her wolf howled her delight at finally being with their mate. He kissed her softly and began
slowly thrusting in and out. She threw her arms and legs around him, clutching him to her, never
wanting him to leave.
Each time he drove inside her he rubbed against her sweet spot, and she moaned at the divine feeling.
The pressure in her quickly grew, almost spiraling out of control. He started pistoning in and out of
her; he twisted his hips, pressing against her clit. She tensed and roared as she shattered into a million
pieces, and seconds later he let out his own roar and came.
She trembled holding him against her satiated body, and Ed licked and kissed her neck. Her wolf
finally relaxed. Shed finally been with her mate, and it was only the beginning.

Chapter Eight
19th February
Ed groaned as he listened to his parents, his Alpha and his grandmother. They were actually taking
the news better than he expected.
If he could go back to the previous evening, he probably wouldnt have blurted out the fact that they
were getting married in the middle of an argument. But it had seemed like the right moment at the
time. Of course, it hadnt stopped the argument, merely left everyone speechless for a few minutes
before everyone picked up where they left off. Kim and Ed got out of there as soon as they could, but
sadly they couldnt hide in their rooms forever. Kim had been pretty pissed, but he had apologized
profusely, and she had given in and admitted that everyone would find out eventually anyway.
His mother looked at him imploringly. Its not that I dont like Kim; shes a lovely woman, but I just
dont think shes marriage material.
Ed cocked his head on one side. Shes hardly a wild woman; she has a kid, shes more grounded
than I am.
Marie, his grandmother, tapped her cane on the floor for attention. Speaking of the child, where
exactly is the father? Im told they are still married.
What? roared his brother, Harold. You proposed to someone whos already married? What kind
of woman gets engaged when shes already married?
Eds wolf snapped, and he tried to soothe the beast. She hasnt seen him in years. I already have a
private investigator looking for him. As soon as I find him, hell agree to the divorce and Kim will
be free.
His father gave him a shrewd look. I take it youre paying for this private investigator.
Ed bristled. As a matter of fact I am; I hired him before I even proposed to Kim. She doesnt know
anything about it, and she certainly didnt ask me to do it for her.
His father huffed in disbelief. And what happens if he wont agree to the divorce?
He owes a ton of child support; hell agree, or Ill take him to court and sue him for the money he
owes Kim.
Ed had been thinking this through for a while and had even had the divorce papers drawn up in
readiness. Something else he hadnt mentioned to Kim yet. He hoped she wasnt annoyed at all the
secret plans he had been making.
His brother looked at him in exasperation. A married, penniless bartender? Have you even thought
about how this will reflect on us?
Ed let out a hollow chuckle as his wolf grumbled. Honestly, no. Who I marry is nothing to do with
any of you. Im an adult, and I will marry whoever I want.
His mother frowned. But really, dear, a grey wolf? There are so many red wolves in our pack who

would jump at the chance of mating with you.

What does it matter if shes not a red wolf? What would it matter is she were human or a raccoon or
a bear shifter?
Bite your tongue, chastised his grandmother, do you really want the rest of the pack running
around mating bears and raccoons?
Why the hell not? Kims pack welcomes other species, so why shouldnt ours?
His four family members looked at him like he was mad.
Were wolves, said his father in his deepest and most dominant voice. We should mate with other
wolves. Our pack has been around for over four hundred years, and we wouldnt still be here if our
pack mates were running around mating with other shifters.
Ed sighed and looked out the window. The depressing weather was very fitting it matched
everybody's sour moods. Well, things have changed over the last four hundred years. Shifters are
now free to live out in the open, we no longer have to hide and huddle together for fear of being
killed, and that means that we should have more freedom. Freedom to be with the people or grey
wolves that we want to be with.
His mother picked at the hem of her dress. Have you considered that she might be marrying you for
your money?
He growled at his mother, flashing his fangs as his wolf leaped up in defense of their mate. His
brother and father growled in response; their Alpha natures forced Ed to back down.
No, I hadnt, he replied tersely, Kim isnt like that. Money isnt important to either of us.
His grandmother gave him a smile, one part vicious and two parts triumphant. Well then, shell have
no problem signing a pre-nuptial agreement then, will she?
She might not, but I do, he spat.
You said yourself that shes not interested in your money, so she can prove it.
Eds nostrils flared, and he felt the indignation of his animal. She doesnt have to prove anything,
least of all to you. And once again, I dont need your permission to marry her.
His father shook his head. Youre young, how do you know this isnt just some stupid crush? Shes
older than you, and already has a child, how do you know she isnt just looking for someone who can
support her and the child?
If she just wanted that, there are dozens of men lining up to take the job. Shes my true mate; Im
sure of it.
His mother scoffed. True mates are overrated, dear. Its just a chemical reaction telling your body
to mate with a certain person. Its poppycock.
Whoa, Mom, language.
She rolled her eyes. You should take this seriously. Numerous friends of mine have been silly
enough to fall for the true mate trap, and then found themselves mated to someone who was

completely unsuitable. Do you really want to wake up in ten years time tied down to a woman you
have absolutely nothing to talk about with?
Ed looked between his parents. He tried to recall hearing them talk to one another and enjoy each
other s company, but he came up short. Everything hed ever heard them say was about their kids,
social engagements and pack business. He couldnt imagine them having a heart to heart about
anything.
His mother took his silence as a sign that he was thinking over what she said and plowed on. Kims
quite sweet and, even I have to admit, shes very attractive. I can see why you are enamored with her,
but really, Edward, the two of you dont go together.
His wolf snapped his jaws, and his skin prickled. It was something he had thought numerous times
since they met, but for different reasons. Hed always been so confident with women and had
attracted a lot of women over the years. He wasnt one to kiss and tell, but he had no problem sweet
talking the ladies. Hed always had a thing about older women, probably something to do with his
first crush being on their nanny. But, the differences between him and Kim were obvious the age
difference, the height difference, the fact that she was a thousand times more attractive than him At
first hed worried she might have a problem with that, but it had become clear that Kim was more than
satisfied with who and what he was. Repeatedly satisfied in fact
Ed smiled drunkenly as lewd thoughts raced through his head. His brother clicked his fingers in front
of Eds face, and he scowled.
We go together just fine, thanks.
His father raked his hands through his thinning hair. If you go through with this you will be thrown
out of the pack.
Its not your place to say that, snapped Harold Jr., the Alpha.
The previous Alpha and the current Alpha, father and son, sneered at each other for a few moments
before their father submitted and bared his neck in respect.
Happy that his status as Alpha had been reaffirmed, Harold Jr. opened his mouth to speak but Ed cut
him off.
Dont bother, I already plan on joining Kims pack if theyll have me. So before you push me out,
Im leaving.
His mother looked like shed eaten something that didnt agree with her. A red wolf in a grey wolf
pack? That isnt natural.
Well, they already have pumas, bears, witches and humans, so I figure Ill be in good company.
Ed had enjoyed their company enough for one morning and decided to go off in search of Kim. He
got up and strode to the door.
His grandmother tapped her cane again. If you do this, Ill cut you off from your allowance, and I'll
cut you out of my will. You know I can!
He paused with his hand on the handle. He turned back to his family and gave them a disarming

smile. You do whatever the hell you want and, by the way, Grandmother, happy birthday.
Yep, it was his grandmothers birthday, and this was how she wanted to celebrate it.
*
Kim cringed as she crept out of her room. Maybe she could make it to the kitchen, swipe some food
and then run back to her room. Yes, it would be cowardly, but after last night, she wasnt above being
cowardly. Her wolf grumbled at her attitude, but Kim didnt care - it wasnt the wolf whod had to
face down Eds disapproving family last night. The looks on their faces alone made her shiver. She
didnt want to remember the things they had said.
She was Eds true mate for heavens sake! She wasnt using him - she loved him! She shook her
head. Nope, she wasnt going to think about it. When she started thinking, she got angry, then she
wanted to shift and rip something apart with her claws, then she got sad that they couldnt see how
genuine she was, and then she wanted to just curl up on her bed and cry like a pup. It was just easier
not to think about it.
Christine had come by earlier and taken Jamie away to play with the boys. The other she-wolf hadnt
mentioned the previous night, thank god, but she had thrown sympathetic yet pitying looks in her
direction.
Lord, why couldnt Ed have kept his mouth shut? Everyone had been annoyed at each other and halfdrunk already the news would never have been welcome at that moment! Plus, she hadnt even had a
chance to explain it to Jamie yet. Which is why shed had a quick heart to heart with her daughter that
morning.
Jamie, being 5-years-old, had taken it in her stride. Ed would live at their house, which meant that Ed
would be able to play with her more. It was as simple as that. Why couldnt Eds family be that cool
about it?
Kim stole down the hallway, eagerly listening out for other family members. All the pups and
Christine were in the games room, which was just a big room containing a pool table and a multitude
of board games.
She breathed a sigh of relief as she found herself in the empty kitchen. Gingerly, she started going
through cupboards. She kind of felt like an intruder going through someone elses kitchen. Although,
judging by everyones reactions last night, she was always going to feel like an intruder in this
family.
She had woken up that morning thoroughly prepared to go down to breakfast and act civilly, but
Christine had informed her that breakfast was off, and everyone was fending for themselves. Among
other reasons, Ethel, the housekeeper and cook, was under the weather, and no one else fancied taking
on the job. That suited Kim down to the ground. Christine was sorting out food for the kids, but Kim
got the impression she wasnt in the mood to put up with the adults, who were acting like kids. Kim
thought she might have an ally there.
You must be feeling pretty pleased with yourself.
Kim jumped as she was reaching for a box of crackers. It fell down from the shelf, hit Kim on the
head and crashed to the floor, spreading bits of cracker everywhere.

Helena sniggered as Kim pulled bits of cracker out of her hair. Damnit! Why hadnt she scented
Helena coming? Her wolf at least had the decency to turn away, shame-faced.
Did you say something? asked Kim, stiffly.
Im just surprised is all, youve known Ed, what? A couple of months and
Five months, interrupted Kim irritably.
Helena shrugged. Right, five months, and youre engaged already. Thats kind of fast.
Kim felt her beast tense, readying to attack the other female if necessary. Not as fast as when you
were with Ed. Of course, your relationship ended pretty quickly too, didnt it? said Kim dryly.
The red she-wolfs jaw ticked before she smiled horribly. I made a mistake; I wont deny that. Lots
of people make mistakes and jump into bed with people who are completely unsuitable for them. Its
very easy to mistake feelings of lust for love. Helena raked her eyes up and down Kims body in a
slow sweep.
Kim raised an eyebrow. I agree, just like its very easy to think you love someone when you actually
just love their bank balance.
To Kims surprise, Helena just laughed. I think Eds family will agree with you on that. Youre
what? A bartender? I sure hope Eds family have no problem with that.
Kim stood rigidly still as Helena grabbed a drink out the refrigerator and sauntered out the room.
Kim shuddered as her wolf tried to shift and take control. Who the hell was this she-wolf to talk to
them that way? Kim was twice the wolf she was! She should show that damn bitch who the most
dominant wolf was!
While she would like nothing more than sink her teeth and claws into Helena, she refrained. She
figured she had enough problems with trying to make Eds family accept her without turning the
house into a crime scene.
Instead, she sighed and started picking up the broken bits of cracker. Kim stilled as she heard more
shuffling footsteps. She sniffed and almost considered hiding under the kitchen table when she
scented Eds grandmother, Marie coming her way. Her wolf snorted and Kim relented and stood up.
Yeah, yeah, she had to be brave. Whatever.
The old woman looked at her in confusion. Who are you? What are you doing in my house?
Its Kim; we met a couple of days ago. I was invited here by
Marie waved her hand. Oh, yes, Kim. I remember.
She made her way over to a chair; her cane clacked on the tiled floor. Heavily, she sank onto the seat.
Do you want me to get you something to eat? asked Kim, unsure of what else to do or say.
Marie looked around the kitchen in surprise. Oh, no thank you. Did you say your name was Kim?
Umm, yes.
Marie nodded and sniffed. Youre a wolf shifter, too.

Yep.
Hmmm, you seem so nice, just the sort of woman my grandson, Ed should be with.
Kim smiled and was about to set Marie straight when the older she-wolf continued talking.
Hes gotten himself engaged to someone who isnt right for him, a completely inappropriate
woman. Shes just a bit of fun, but the fools fancying himself in love.
Kims eyes bulged as she surveyed the woman in front of her. Was she kidding? Was she trying to
get a rise out of Kim by pretending she didnt remember? Or did she really not know that Kim was
Eds bit of fun as she so succinctly put it? Kim watched her carefully, but all she could see was a
slightly confused, elderly wolf shifter.
Of course, Ive told him that hell be cut out of my will if he continues with this idiotic idea of
marrying her
Oh, god. Should she tell her? Yes, she probably should before Marie really said something bad. Or
at least, something worse. Well, actually
There you are!
Judy bustled into the room, and Marie growled at her, baring her fangs. Kim was a little taken aback,
but Judy merely clucked her tongue. Judy started trying to get Marie to her feet, and she in turn
slapped at Judys hands.
Is everything okay? asked Kim uncertainly.
Judy beamed at her. Of course, shes just very forgetful. Makes her a bit woolly-headed.
Kim looked down at Marie; she hadnt reacted at all to being called woolly-headed. She seemed
okay when we first met
Judy bobbed her head quickly, making her look like her neck was on springs. Shes mostly okay, but
every now and then she gets confused and forgets where she is, and forgets new people she just met.
Whats wrong with her?
Judy chuckled. Its called old age; it comes to us all. Of course, things have been bad since the
accident.
Oh?
Yes, everyone told her she shouldnt be driving, but she insisted, and she crashed her car.
Thankfully, no one else was injured, but she took a bump to the head and now she forgets things more
often.
Kim rubbed her arms. Gee, Im sorry to hear that.
Judy shrugged. She has her good and bad days. Come on now, time for your pills.
Judy pulled an irritated Marie to her feet and herded her out the kitchen. Kim sighed, she really
needed to get out of that kitchen. Who else was going to pop through the freaking door?
She scooped up the remnants of crackers and almost yelped as warm arms encircled her waist. Her

wolf yapped like a puppy, and her whole body softened into the embrace. Ed.
Hey, gorgeous, he murmured into her ear before kissing her neck.
She twisted in his arms, so they were facing each other. Thank god its you.
Expecting someone else?
Kim shivered. No, just dreading that it might have been someone else.
Ed huffed. Not Jonathan? He hasnt tried anything with you, has he? Eds face started to turn
purple with anger. Because if he has
Kim shushed him by pressing her fingers to his lips. No, absolutely not.
Ed relaxed, slightly mollified. He had nothing to worry about. Kim actually had a horrible suspicion
that there was already something going on between Jonathan and his other brother s wife, Jennifer.
She ran her hands over his chest, and in spite of all the worry she had, her wolf yipped and her sex
throbbed at feeling his tight muscles. Ed wasnt the only one keen to be with his mate.
I already had a charming run in with Helena and your grandmother; I was just panicking about who
was next.
Ed let out a small snarl and Kim hugged him close to her. His anger evaporated as he felt her lissome
body crushed against him. She rubbed her erect nipples over his chest and he felt himself growing
painfully hard.
Her animal whimpered and, god help her, she started nibbling his earlobe. Shed been fully prepared
to abide by his familys rules about no sex between unmarried partners, but darn it, she was having a
bad day. And Ed just smelled so fine
Ed clutched at her body with more urgency. Wheres Jamie?
Playing with Christine and your nephews, she whispered seductively before tracing his ear with her
tongue.
Ed let out a rumble. You feel so good. Come to my room?
Kim was torn between being good and doing what she really wanted. Oh, who was she kidding? Her
wolf growled throatily. She was just going to do what she wanted. Meet you there in five minutes,
Im just going to slip into something a little less comfortable. Code for Im going to brush my teeth
and shave my legs.
Eds face lit up in excitement. Hurry. He took her hand and pressed it to his lips before running out
of the room, almost tripping over his feet in his haste. He ignored her giggles and rushed to his
bedroom. He had just enough time to pick up his dirty clothes, rip off all his current clothes and
arrange himself into a seductive pose.
His beast roared in delight but howled in frustration as Ed burst into his room and found Helena lying
on his bed.
There you are!

Ed stared at her in shock. Was he hallucinating? Had he hit his head and this was his twisted brain
dreaming up the worst possible scenario he could think of?
Helena smiled at him. Are you just going to stand there?
Ed looked outside his room to make sure no one else was about and quickly shut the door. What the
hell are you doing here? he hissed, something his braying wolf was also keen to find out.
Helena stretched out in what Ed was sure was supposed to be a sexy move, but it just left him cold. He
supposed it was just a small mercy that she was actually wearing clothes, even if it was a slip of a tiny
dress that showed off far too much flesh. It could always have been worse Although, he imagined
Kim would look absolutely glorious in the same outfit.
I just wanted to talk to you, she purred.
Now isnt a good time, you should leave.
Helena pouted. Well, when would be a good time?
How about the first Thursday after hell froze over? Ed tapped his foot impatiently. We can talk
later, and whatever you have to say can be said in front of Kim, my fiance.
She scooted to the edge of the bed. So youre actually serious about her, then?
His wolf snapped his jaws, and Ed folded his arms. Yes, of course, I am, he ground out.
I think youre making a mistake
I dont care what you think, he snapped.
Do you honestly think shell be accepted by your family?
I dont care what they think either.
Her bottom lip started trembling theatrically. Did I really mean so little to you that you can talk to
me this way?
Ed grunted. His wolf was all for telling the vapid she-wolf where to stick it, but Ed was a little more
patient than his beast. Although, not by much.
We had a few good times, but
Her eyes blazed amber. A few! You proposed to me!
I was not in my right mind.
Helena got off the bed and threw up her hands in disgust. Ugh, Ive told you over and over that there
was nothing in your drink other than alcohol. Dont blame me because you cant hold your drink.
Ed scoffed a couple of glasses of wine never caused him amnesia before that night! His wolf
prowled, mindful that any second their mate was about to turn up. The last thing either of them
wanted was for her to find his erstwhile ex-fiance hanging around his room in an obscenely short
mini dress. It doesnt matter anyway; you slept with my brother.
Helena bared her teeth. He threw himself at me!

Well, you should have ducked, he sneered.

Helena scowled and strode past him to the door; she opened it and hesitated. If you want my
advice
I definitely dont.
Keep Kim away from Jonathan. I mean, its really cute how hard you try in bed, but you just cant
compare to your brother. One night with him and she probably wont be able to settle for his little
brother. She creased her brow and gave him a mock look of sympathy.
His wolf roared, but Ed continued to stare at her blankly. He wouldnt give her the satisfaction of
letting her see just how much her vicious remarks had bothered him. He could care less about her
own assessment of his ability, but he certainly didnt like the insinuation that he couldnt satisfy his
mate, or that she would jump into bed with his brother. Kim was his!
A look of pure joy passed over Helenas face. Oh, hi, Kim! I was just leaving; well talk later, Ed.
Helena shimmied away, hips swaying. Ed felt a sharp stab in his chest as his lovely but very confused
looking mate came into his room.
Ed?
Fuck.

Chapter Nine
Jonathan and Ed stared at the chess set in front of them. They were ostensibly playing, but really Ed
was trying to avoid talking to any of his family, and Jonathan was nursing a ferocious hangover.
Kim had understood about finding Helena in his room. Of course she had, it was just that her ardor
had dimmed considerably on finding her fiances ex in his room. Kim had opted instead to go find
Jamie. After a cold shower, Ed had ventured out and was trying not to take out his anger out on
anyone who happened to cross his path.
They both looked up as their grandmother growled and hissed. They watched as Judy was trying to
push a cup and saucer at Marie, and their grandmother was stubbornly refusing to take it.
Do you think the old hag even knows its her birthday? asked Jonathan nonchalantly.
Jonathan hadnt been able to forgive his grandmother ever since she was instrumental in sending
away the supposed love of his life.
Ed sighed. Maybe, she seemed pretty coherent when she was yelling at me, but after she couldnt
even remember who Kim was. Even though she didnt know who Kim was she still managed to
insult her though, for which he was furious.
Lucky Kim.
You dont think marrying Kim is a mistake, do you?
Jonathan smirked and then a pained look crossed his face. Probably best not to move his face too
much. Would it matter if I did?
Ed gave him a wry smile. No, not at all, I just want to know where I stand with all my loving family
members.
I say marry her quickly before she changes her mind. You need her married and mated to you
before she wakes up and asks herself what a beautiful creature like her is doing carrying on with a
shrimp like you. Presumably she has some kind of amnesia, so shes forgotten how hot she is, and
you need to take advantage of that before her memory comes back.
Ed narrowed his eyes. Gee, thanks; Im so glad youre on my side.
No problem, happy to help.
They watched as their grandmother tried to bat Judy away with her cane.
Its kind of sad that shes not doing anything more for her birthday.
Jonathan snorted. Not doing anything? She dragged us all out to this damn island just to prove that
she can still snap her fingers and control us, didnt she? That kind of power trip is enough for her.
Besides, since when did you care about birthdays, you told me you spent yours working.
Ed smiled, and his wolf panted as he thought back to his birthday. That wasnt entirely accurate.
Jonathan looked at him curiously. Why? What did you do on your last birthday?

Ummm
*
20th October
Ed groaned and stared at the paperwork on his desk. Why had he agreed to help out with this case? It
was his brother s case; he should be here doing the work. God only knows where Arthur was at that
moment; Ed had a bad feeling it wasnt with his wife
This was definitely not how he wanted to spend his birthday. Yep, he was celebrating turning 26 by
drowning himself in a mountain of uninteresting contracts.
His wolf whimpered at him. It had been over a week since hed last seen Kim, and his beast was
alternately upset and furious at him for staying away. It wasnt intentional, but he just had such a
heavy workload. But the time he got home at night, he was too tired to even drive to Rose never mind
bring his mate to the dizzying heights of sexual pleasure she deserved.
They hadnt made any great plans, just in case he had to cancel them. Which he had. They were just
going to watch a movie, and he was going to spend the night. He wished that was what he was doing.
Ed had half a mind just to walk out of the firm altogether. He was becoming less and less interested
with his work every day, and more and more desperate to be with Kim. But, two things held him
back, he didnt want to come on too strong with her and scare her off, and he didnt want to leave the
firm until he was sure Arthur would be able to cope without Ed backing him up. Whatever was
happening with Arthur, he hoped it resolved itself soon.
The outer office was deathly quiet; even the cleaners had finished and gone home. No one else was
dumb enough to be working up here at this hour.
Ed switched on his music player and hummed along to a violin concerto. He sniffed the air and
sighed at the glorious scent of lavender. Hmmm, Kim. Wait, Kim?!
His wolf snapped to attention, and Ed was pleasantly shocked to find the voluptuous she-wolf leaning
against his doorframe. She was wearing killer four-inch heels and a fairly short trench coat. He had
a very good feeling about what was going on under there
Happy birthday, babe, she purred.
Kim, how did you?
Her lips curled upwards wickedly. The guard on the front desk let me up here. I felt so bad about
you being on your own for your birthday that I wanted to surprise you. Do you like your surprise?
Ed nodded his head and almost panted at her like a puppy.
Kim strode into his office and firmly shut the door behind her. Ed watched in excited anticipation as
she locked the door and then closed the window blinds. His wolf howled as she slithered out of her
coat to reveal a set of very skimpy, tantalizing black underwear. The flimsy material barely covered
her curvy assets.
His arousal surged, and his rock-hard sex raged to be freed. Luckily, he wouldnt have to wait long.

Kim kicked off her heels and, with a devilish smile on her face, got on her knees and crawled between
his legs, her bountiful breasts jiggling beneath her. Ed gripped the arms of his chair, his claws
pushing forward and digging into the leather.
Kim licked her lips suggestively and carefully undid his pants. He groaned as his hard erection
sprang free. She giggled and took him in her hands, gently stroking him and flourishing kisses on
the mushroom head.
He growled as she unexpectedly engulfed him in her mouth and took as much of him as she could.
She sucked him wildly before releasing him and kissing and licking the tip, lapping at the beads of
pre-cum, before she bobbed her head up and down his length.
Ed watched her, marveling at the beautiful woman performing this intimate act on him, and delighting
in the feel of her warm mouth. His wolf howled in glee as his burgeoning need for release caused
him to jerk his hips toward her.
He tangled a hand in her silken hair, and she flicked her amber eyes to him. Seeing her take him like
this was too much. He couldnt hang on any longer. Kim Im going to
She clamped her red lips around him and sped up her movements until his release struck. He roared
in time with his wolf as he stiffened and came in her mouth.
She continued her motions, sucking his seed and milking every last drop. He collapsed back into the
chair and tried to regain his breath.
Kim slowly pulled away from him to sit back on her haunches. She was delighted to find he was still
hard. She stood up and unhurriedly stripped out of her underwear, reveling in the hungry look on
Eds face.
Her wolf yipped in happiness, as she always did when she was about to be with their mate. She took
hold of his manhood and lowered herself onto him slowly; her silken walls eagerly accepted his long
length. She was so slick with honey that she took him in one. Flush against him, his tip nudged her
cervix almost painfully. It was a pleasurable impalement. She rolled her hips around him, adjusting
to his size.
Ed gripped her hips as he quivered inside her, and she playfully tightened her muscles around him,
making him groan.
Her lips found his, and she devoured his mouth passionately. They sat together, enjoying each other s
kiss while joined so intimately for what felt like hours but was only a matter of minutes.
He pulled away and leaned down to suckle at her breasts nibbling and then laving before moving on
to the other. He alternated between each of them.
Languidly, she started rocking and rolling her hips over him, pushing her clit against him. Gently he
pushed his hips up to meet hers, eliciting small moans from her. Gradually they got faster and faster
until they were slamming into one another s body.
Kims claws pushed forward and ripped through his shirt as she clung to his shoulders. Ed growled
as his own pressed into the flesh of her hips. The twinge of pain pushed her over the edge, and she
howled as her release struck her, sending waves of ecstasy through her sensitive body. As she writhed

in his arms her inner muscles clamped around him. He roared as the exquisite tightness; it was too
much for him, and he exploded. He jerked his hips inside her, emptying himself until he had nothing
more to give. Their wolves growled in satisfaction.
Kim leaned her forehead against his. Happy birthday, babe.
Best damn birthday I ever had, he breathed.
She let out a soft giggle. Glad to hear it.
*
Present day
Well? What did you do for your last birthday?
Ed gave Jonathan a smug smile. Oh, nothing much.
Jonathan looked at him curiously but decided it wasnt worth the effort. Yeah, well wipe that dopey
look off your face. Lunch in twenty minutes.
Ed groaned as his wolf growled. Good, another chance for some family togetherness.

Chapter Ten
Everyone filed into the dining room with the same fervor as if they were being led to a public
execution. Ed lamented the bad weather and wished the storm would pass. At least then they could
roam free outside, and there would be plenty more hiding spaces. Plus, if things got really bad they
could hop on a boat and sail away.
Ed grabbed Olivias arm before she made it inside. She gave a little yelp of protest before she
realized it was Ed and relaxed.
He pulled her to one side. What were you thinking asking Helena to come here? he demanded
roughly.
Olivia furrowed her brow. First of all, I didnt know you were bringing your girlfriend
Fiance, he corrected as his wolf huffed.
Olivia rolled her eyes. Fine, fiance. If I had known, I would have made sure Helena didnt come.
But, secondly, it wasnt actually me who invited her.
Ed looked at her suspiciously. Then who did?
Arthur, apparently.
Suspicion darted through his mind. Why would Arthur want Helena here? he asked slowly.
Olivia gave him a pained look. I dont know and Im not sure I want to know.
Ed felt troubled. He knew Jennifer and Arthur were going through a tough time. He didnt know
what the problem was exactly, but he believed it stemmed from the issue of having pups. But,
Helenas interference in their lives was definitely not a good thing.
You dont think Arthur and Helena
Olivia bit her lip. I hope not. I tried asking Helena about why Arthur invited her, but she just dodged
the question. I feel so bad for Jennifer.
Ed groaned. He really hoped Arthur wasnt as dumb as he had been and hadnt allowed the vapid shewolf to get her claws into him. Arthur and Jennifer werent true mates, but they had been besotted
with each when they first got married.
If something does happen its your fault, said Ed a little more forcefully than he intended. That
bitch is crazy.
Olivia was a little surprised and looked away from him. Im sorry; she wasnt always like this. She
changed after her dad
Ed relented and rubbed her shoulder. Im sorry, Olly. I didn't really mean what I said.
She gave him a watery smile. You havent called me Olly in ages.
He smiled and enveloped his little sister into a warm hug.

She frowned. Seriously, I didnt want Helena here, but Arthur invited her and then she invited Kurt
and I didnt have the heart to tell them they werent welcome.
Ed raised an eyebrow. You didnt invite Kurt? I thought you two were dating?
Olivia blushed furiously. Weve been on a few dates but nothings happened. We have nothing in
common.
Ed rubbed the back of his neck. Neither do Kim and I, he admitted ruefully. But they were pretty
damn happy. His beast wagged his tail and agreed with that whole-heartedly.
She smiled. I like Kim; Im really happy for you.
He grinned. Thanks, at least I have two family members on my side.
Olivia pouted. You know you could have introduced Kim to us sooner. I mean, I can understand you
not wanting her to meet Mom and Dad or even Grandmother, but you could have introduced her to
me, or Jonathan or she licked her lips, or Will.
Ed looked at her askance. Whats going on between you two? Has something happened?
Olivia paled but immediately looked relieved as their eldest brother s irritable voice told them to
hurry up.
She quickly wiped the deer in headlights look off her face and ran into the dining room. Ed followed
her with slightly less enthusiasm. He soon perked up when he saw his beautiful mate already seated.
It kind of pissed him off that she was already sat between Will and Jonathan, but that didnt matter. His
wolf snarled, alright maybe it mattered a little, but just seeing her was enough to calm him, and make
him believe that he was ready for the upcoming onslaught of lunch with his family.
*
So, Kim, are you willing to sign a prenup?
Kim almost choked on the water she was drinking. Ed roared at his father. The rest of the family
went quiet; the silence was almost deafening.
A what? she managed to choke out.
Eds father, Harold Sr. wiped his mouth on his napkin and carefully folded it. As Im sure Ed has
explained to you, if he marries you he will have to leave the pack and will be cut off from his
allowance entirely.
Kim looked at Ed who in turn gave her a sheepish grin. No, actually I wasnt aware.
A look of hurtful uncertainty passed over her face. Eds eyes shone amber as he felt his claws
growing, and his wolf pushing him to shift.
I was going to tell her in my own time. He looked directly at Kim. Its not important.
She met the hard gaze of Eds father. If thats what you want, Ill sign one.
No! growled Ed, I dont want you to.
Kim shrugged. It doesnt matter either way

It matters to me!
The argument was interrupted as Judy started spluttering. Everyone looked at her in concern; her
eyes bulged, her face turned bright red, and she started clutching at her throat. Olivia jumped up and
ran to her, and started trying to loosen her shirt.
Will and Kim rushed over to her.
Is she choking? asked Will.
With wide, scared eyes, Olivia shook her head. I dont think so.
Kim felt Judys head. Crap, shes burning up. Ed, get some ice bags.
On it. He tore off through the house.
The pups started murmuring, and Christine and Jennifer quickly corralled them out of the room.
Mommy? asked Jamie.
Go with Christine, baby, panted Kim as she tried to hold onto Judy, who had started shaking.
Jennifer scooped Jamie up and ran out of the room.
Whats wrong with her? demanded Harold Jr.
Im a bartender, not a freaking doctor how should I know? snapped Kim.
Harold harrumphed but didnt say anything. He was too busy gawking like everyone else in the
room.
Ed skidded back in the room, and they started pressing the cold ice against her burning skin. Judy
was whimpering in pain.
Kim flicked her eyes to Marie. Does she have any allergies?
Eds grandmother raised her eyebrows. How should I know? Shes paid to look after me; Ive no
idea what her health is like.
Kim gave her a stern look, but it was completely lost on the selfish, older she-wolf.
I dont think she does, said Olivia in a rush. We were talking the other day and I told her I was
allergic to strawberries and Im sure she told me she didnt have any allergies, but she said she had a
cold and her nose was blocked and she couldnt scent things very well at the moment, babbled
Olivia.
Thanks. Kim tried to give her a reassuring smile, but it probably came out as more of a grimace
under the circumstances.
Judy kept spluttering but didnt seem able to speak.
Kim stilled as she scented something very familiar and very worrying. Her wolf roared in a mixture
of fury and fear. This was bad. We should get her back to her room. Jonathan, Will?
The two males nodded and easily supported the shuddering she-wolf. They took her out of the room
as quickly as they could, with Olivia trailing behind. Unsure what else to do, the other family

members followed.
Ed was about to go with them when Kim grasped his arm. He gave her a searching look.
Kim picked up the teacup Judy had been drinking from. She sniffed it and turned a little green before
passing it to Ed. What do you smell?
He looked at her curiously but did as he was told. He almost retched at the faint yet deadly smell. It
was masked slightly by peppermint, but it was still there. Wolfsbane.

Chapter Eleven
Kim quietly let Ed into her room. Jamie was already asleep, so Kim locked the door and led him into
the bathroom. It had been a long day. She pulled the door closed and sat down on the toilet with a
loud sigh. Ed perched on the edge of the bath and twisted a rubber duck in his fingers.
After they had got Judy back to her room, they had made her vomit as much as she could and then,
after lengthy discussion, had her drink milk to soothe her burning throat. No one in the house other
than Judy had any clue about medical matters. As it turned out, Judy was a retired nurse and would
have been the best person to handle the situation. But of course, she wasnt in any shape or form to do
so.
After she had vomited, no one had any idea what to do. Someone said that what she really needed was
a cup of tea. Others said water and somebody else mentioned that red wine had restorative powers
Honestly, it was like having The Muppets try to handle a medical emergency.
It was finally agreed on that milk might be the best thing. It was noted that milk was the best thing to
drink when you were eating a very hot curry, and since her throat was burning No one else came
up with any better ideas. So milk it was, combined with the strongest painkillers they could muster.
Then, it was just a matter of waiting for Judys natural shifter abilities to heal her.
Olivia volunteered to stay with her overnight, just in case anything happened. When Will heard that
wolfsbane was involved, he insisted that he stay too. Even the smallest dose of toxic wolfsbane put
wolves on edge.
Finding the poison had the small benefit of at least leaving all his family members speechless.
Although, not for long.
All the males in the family had insisted on inspecting the teacup themselves. Inevitably, they all
confirmed the same thing that both Kim and Ed already had. The cup contained the poison.
Ethel and George, the housekeepers, had been grilled about whether they had brought wolfsbane into
the house, but they fervently denied it, and the Alpha, currently frothing with anger, had believed
them.
But then, that meant that someone else had brought wolfsbane into the house
It was suggested by Arthur that maybe Judy had brought it with her and that she had accidentally
poisoned herself. Or maybe tried to commit suicide.
Everyone relaxed when that theory was put out there, because it meant that none of them had done it
and, ergo, they didnt have to start suspecting their family members and friends.
Although matters werent helped when Marie casually mentioned that the cup was meant for her. Judy
had tried to give her the cup of peppermint tea, but Marie refused, citing that shed had enough tea to
last her a lifetime. So Judy had decided to drink it herself.
It wasnt said, but there was a hope that Judy would be able to give them a bit more information, once
she had recovered.

The weather was still raging outside, and trying to travel anywhere was impossible. Nobody was
getting any cell reception, and the CB radio they had wasnt getting a response. They were stuck there
indefinitely.
Marie gleefully told them that it was like an Agatha Christie novel. Kim disagreed; the situation was
nowhere near as fun as reading a crime novel.
As it stood, they were waiting for Judy to get better. Currently, everyone was trying to carry on as
normal while trying not to cast suspicious glances at one another. And everyone was keen to get their
own drinks.
Kim was refusing to let Jamie go anywhere without her. Her snarling wolf wouldnt allow it.
Ed caught Kims eyes and they both let out nervous laughs. She rubbed her arms. Are we gonna talk
about whats happening?
Im not even sure what is happening.
Kim bit her lip. Do you think someone might be trying to kill your grandmother?
Ed watched her closely. That seems like the most likely solution.
I take it youre not hoping for the accidental ingestion option?
He laughed hollowly. Im a realist. Judys a wolf shifter - just like us. I cant believe she would
carry around wolfsbane, much less accidentally put it in her tea.
But, why would someone want to kill your grandmother?
Other than her personality? he asked flippantly.
She scowled. No jokes, please. I dont think I can take it right now.
Ed snagged one of her hands and brought it to his lips. Im sorry. But all I can think is that it's about
money. When she dies, my dad and all my siblings, were all going to inherit a lot of money.
Kim looked at him doubtfully. But killing
A lot of money, gorgeous," he reiterated. "You may be able to live on a bartender s salary, but those
people out there can spend your weekly salary on champagne in one night. Its a motive enough for
any of us and our spouses.
Her wolf whined indignantly. Not you, though. You could never do that.
Ed smiled at his mate. No, not me. But
But, you think that others might be capable?
He fidgeted. You have to understand, Kim, my family isnt like your family, and my pack isnt like
your pack. We dont stay together because we love each other and we want to support one another,
its just just
Kim arched an eyebrow. Business?
Something like that.

So who do you think you know did it? She rolled her shoulders unhappily. The whole matter
made her uncomfortable.
Helena.
Kim groaned, but her wolf howled in agreement. The thought had occurred to her, and yes it would
suit her jealous beast down to the ground if it were Helena, but she wasnt ready to hang the woman
out to dry based on her own dislike.
Do you really believe that? Or are you just saying that because you dont like her?
Wellll
Ummm hmmm. Out of all of us, I would say she had the least motive. She isnt going to inherit
anything, and she isnt either dating or married to someone who is.
Or engaged, he put in as he rubbed his thumb over her ring finger.
Or engaged, she echoed sadly.
His wolf rumbled at Ed; their mate was worried, and he needed to do something. He knelt in front of
her. I wont let anything happen to you or Jamie.
Tears danced in her eyes, threatening to tumble. I know, I do know that, I just I cant help but feel
worried. Ive seen what wolfsbane can do to a wolf shifter, and its not pretty.
Kim shivered, and her wolf whined pitifully. When she was young, her father, as his wolf, had been
caught in a hunter's trap laced with wolfsbane. He hadnt been caught in the trap for long, but it was
long enough to seep into his wounds. It had been horrific. Hed managed to pull through, but he
wasnt quite the same again, and he died a few years later. It wasnt something she wanted to go
through again.
Ed leaned up and cupped her face. I know, gorgeous, I know. Well be fine.
You know, if I dont get a chance later, please let me thank you for bringing me here to meet your
family.
Ed held his breath waiting for her anger or her frustration to hit him, but it didnt come. Instead, she
smiled. I thought you said no jokes.
Sorry, couldnt help myself.
She kissed him, devouring his mouth in a surprisingly steamy kiss. She drew back breathing heavily.
I love you.
I love you, too.
*
20th February
Kim quietly let herself into Judys room. Jamie was with Ed while Kim was checking on Judy. It had
been a long, sleepless night, imagining poisoners in every shadow of her room.
She was surprised to find the room empty, other than Judy, who was dozing in bed. Kim checked on

her; thankfully, she looked a little less red than yesterday.

Kim sniffed and followed her nose to the bathroom. She strained her ears and heard whispered
words.
Why the hell did you invite him? Did you think its funny seeing me suffer? Are you trying to
throw him in my face? Will asked.
Olivias voice was quiet and laced with hurt. No! I would never. Will, I dont want to see you hurt.
This is hard for me too.
He huffed at her. Hard for you?! You know what? Do whatever you want! Marry that asshole for
all I care, because I give up!
Will strode out of the bathroom, and froze when he spotted Kim.
Will, please! Olivia followed, also stilling when she saw Kim.
Will opened his mouth to say something but then thought better of it and quickly slipped out of the
room. Olivia stared at the closed door.
Kim pretended she hadnt noticed and felt Judys forehead. Mercifully, it was cooler than the day
before. How is she?
Olivia folded her arms. Well, she stopped moaning at about 2am and asked for something to drink.
We gave her some milk and then she went back to sleep.
Kim nodded and sat down in an armchair. You can go; I can stay with Judy.
Olivia shook her head and sat down. Nowhere else to go, she muttered.
Is everything okay?
Do you remember the first time you realized you loved Ed? asked Olivia abruptly.
Kim blinked at the younger she-wolf. Well, yes I do.
Kim smiled dreamily; she was pretty sure that she loved him about ten minutes after she met him.
Olivia shifted around on her seat, a perfectly miserable look on her face. How did you tell him?
Kim tried not to flush. The first time she told him was a little kinkier
*
18th November
Kim smiled naughtily as she watched Ed strip. The night before had been the full moon and she had
practically ran all over the woods twice tiring herself out; her libido, however, had not taken the hint
and instead was currently sky rocketing.
Hed just arrived at her house, and she was eager to be with him. Ed had suggested going out to a
restaurant, but it had been two weeks since they were last together, apart from occasional phone sex,
and she needed him.
Her mom was staying at her boyfriends house, and Jamie was at a sleepover the house was empty

and the opportunity was too good to miss. They could be as loud and kinky as they wanted.
When it came to bedroom antics, she was no prude, and she did like to spice things up every now and
then. Thankfully, so did Ed. Although, she couldnt imagine she would ever suggest something he
wouldnt be up for. Theyd already had a little fun with handcuffs, and she blushed to think of their
foray into spanking, but tonight she knew what she wanted.
She stripped out of her t-shirt and panties and kneeled on the bed. She pulled a pillow under her head
and leaned down, laying her head on one side to watch him. The bed dipped, and he knelt behind her,
pressing his hot flesh against hers. She bit her lip as tingles cascaded through her body.
Are you ready, gorgeous? he asked in hoarse excitement. His wolf was practically leaping around
at what they were about to do. He had already claimed her mouth and her sex, and now he was going
to claim her completely.
Mmmm hmmm, she murmured as he pushed two fingers into her tight channel.
He let out a rumble of pleasure at finding her so wet and ready. Within seconds, he replaced his
fingers with his manhood. He slowly thrust in and out of her as he retrieved the lube Kim had placed
on the bed.
He poured some onto his fingers and began to smooth it around her rosebud, before carefully
pushing a finger inside her, twirling and loosening her.
She wiggled her ass a little at the coldness of the liquid and the intrusion in her tightest hole, but the
gentle pleasure his cock afforded her, relaxed her and kept her body loose.
He pushed another and then another finger inside her, and moved his other hand round to massage her
tender clit. She moaned as she felt her orgasm creeping up on her; the double penetration felt sinfully
good and she couldnt hold back even if she wanted. She cried out as her wolf roared, and she
clutched at the pillow as she climaxed and contracted around him.
Ed pulled out of her and lined himself up with her rosebud; he pushed and allowed her to take him
inside as her body jerked
Kim hissed in surprise as she felt him fully inside her ass. He leaned over her and planted kisses
along her back and carefully started stroking in and out of her. The soft burn of pain soon faded to be
replaced by the taboo pleasure of taking him there, of the final possession by this man, this wolf, her
mate.
He continued to manipulate her nub as he took her with tender yet determined thrusts. She arched her
back and pushed back against him as her body started preparing itself for another release. She
moaned as he quickened his motions. Her wolf growled, and her body tingled in anticipation.
His breathing hitched as he urgently drove himself inside her. She saw his fangs lengthen, and his
eyes flash to amber and her wolf yipped in happiness.
Ed I love you she breathed.
It was enough to send him over the edge. He threw back his head and roared as she felt him swell and
come inside her, sending her own climax cascading through her. She let out her own roar as her
claws dug into the pillow, and her body shuddered and shook with the divine intensity.

I love you too, Kim, he told her huskily, so much

*
Present day
Kim reddened as a pained look from Olivia brought her out of her reverie.
Is Ed your true mate? asked Olivia.
Kim nodded. Yes, he is.
Olivia thought about it for a few moments. How did you know?
Its my wolf who realized. I mean, Im more attracted to Ed than any other man Ive ever met, but he
calls to my wolf on a level that even I dont understand.
Youre lucky, murmured Olivia.
I agree, Eds wonderful.
No, I mean youre lucky that the two of you can be together, its not always that easy.
Kim reached out and took Olivias hand. Is there something you want to talk about?
Tears sprang to Olivias eyes, and she nodded. But you have to promise not to tell anyone, even Ed.
Her wolf grumbled at that, but Kim agreed and Olivia proceeded to pour out her heart. Olivias
behavior suddenly made sense.

Chapter Twelve
Kim almost fell off her chair as Judy snorted awake. The older she-wolf looked around the room in
confusion. Kim jumped up and took Judys hand making soothing sounds.
Water, gasped Judy slowly.
Olivia passed Kim a glass, and she helped Judy to take a few sips, until she waved at Kim to stop.
Whats going on? asked Judy in a low, scratchy voice.
Kim and Olivia looked between each other uncertainly. Kim cleared her throat. There was
wolfsbane in the tea you drank at lunch yesterday.
Judys eyes widened in fright. Wolfsbane? she spluttered.
How did it get there? asked a contentious sounding voice behind them.
Both Olivia and Kim jumped. They hadnt even heard Harold Jr. step into the room. Kim
admonished her wolf for not scenting him.
Tears started forming in Judys eyes. I dont know; who would want to hurt me?
Harolds jaw ticked. Did you put it there yourself?
No, I
Did you bring wolfsbane into my familys home?
No, how
Somebody did. Somebody put wolfsbane in your drink. Why would they do that?
Judy started crying; Olivia sat on the bed and put a gentle arm around her shoulders. She sniffled. I
dont know. I wasnt even going to drink it, but Marie didnt want it
Kim and her wolf drew in a breath.
What? snapped Harold.
Judy shrugged lightly. I made the tea for Marie; its supposed to be good for rheumatism. But she
complained so much about the taste that I just drank it.
Kim bit her lip. Tell us about when you made it.
Harold shot her an irritated look for butting in, but he didnt say anything. He was far too interested
in hearing what Judy had to say.
Well, it was a few minutes before lunch, so I boiled the kettle
Where did you get the water from? asked Kim.
Judy gave her an odd look. From the refrigerator.
Was it a new bottle?

Judy looked thoroughly confused. Yes, as a matter of fact it was.

Then what? demanded Harold impatiently.
Then I put some tea leaves in the cup
Where did you get them from? asked Kim.
Judy gave her a look of exasperation. Out of that tin. She pointed to a battered, brown tin on top of
the sideboard.
Hesitantly, Harold picked it up and sniffed the inside. He wrinkled his nose at the strong scent of
peppermint. No wolfsbane.
Well, of course, there isnt! said Judy snippily, Thats my own blend of tea, designed to ease the
pain of my patients. I already told you I didnt bring wolfsbane into this house; I would never
Judys face started turning an alarming shade of puce. Olivia rubbed her arms and murmured for her
to calm down.
Slightly mollified, she continued, After the tea had brewed, I strained the leaves and then brought the
tin back here.
Kim sucked in a breath. So you left the tea in the kitchen for how long?
Just a few minutes.
Harolds eyebrow twitched. Who else knew that the tea was for my grandmother?
Well, I dont know. That girl, Helena and that young man Kurt who always follows her around were
in the kitchen when I was making it. She asked me what I was doing, so I told her. But I suppose
anyone could have known that the tea was for Marie, Ive been giving her numerous cups ever since
we arrived here.
Kim looked at Olivia, but the younger wolf hadnt reacted to the mention of Helena or Kurt. After
Olivias confession, it wasnt so surprising that Olivia wasnt interested in hearing about Kurt, but
Kim had thought Helena was Olivias friend.
Olivia gave Judy a gentle nudge. Then, what happened?
When I came back to the kitchen, I got the tea and took it into the dining room. Marie refused to
drink it, so, rather than let it go to waste, I drank it. Then, Im not really sure; everything is a bit
unclear after that.
Everyone looked at each other in uncomfortable silence for a few beats, before Harold huffed and
wordlessly strode out the room.
Kim followed him out into the hallway. Wait! What are you going to do?
Harold stopped and looked back at her; his face was a mixture of vexation but also despair.
Kim felt a modicum of pity for the wolf stood in front of her. Wolfsbane was a danger. He was the
Alpha male, and he was expected to protect the other wolves, not to mention he had four children
under the age of ten and his mate to worry about. Kim just didnt think he was up to the task. While

Harold might be a killer in the boardroom, she doubted he had the natural instincts of protecting his
pack as a real wolf would.
I need to speak to my family, he answered tersely.
Do you think someones trying to hurt Marie?
Harolds nostrils flared, and he drew himself up to his full height of six foot three. Kims wolf let out
a small snarl. Yes, Harold was pasty and a little out of shape, but he was still bigger than she was. If
Harold attacked her, she doubted she could beat him.
I will discuss the matter with my family.
He nodded at Kim dismissively and stalked away. Asshole. Her wolf huffed. Okay, maybe she should
cut him some slack. He was facing the reality that maybe one of his family was trying to kill his
grandmother. Although, undoubtedly, he was hoping it would turn out to be Helena or Kurt. Or her,
even.
Kim shook her head, ignoring the annoyed baying of her wolf, and stepped back into Judys room.
Judy was pulling apart a tissue in her hands.
When I was a nurse, I never treated cases of wolfsbane, but I know how bad the consequences are of
wolf shifters even getting some on their skin. She shuddered as horror crept over her face. I cant
think of a worse way to to She left it unsaid, but she was thinking - die.
You were lucky, said Kim with feeling, thinking of her late father.
I dont feel lucky, whimpered Judy. Whoever did this, they have no regard for life. They are cold
and vicious.
Kim felt a swell of uneasiness as her wolf prowled unhappily. Judy was right; feeding another wolf
shifter wolfsbane truly did indicate a disturbed mind. A disturbed mind that they were all trapped on
an island with.
Her wolf urged her to go to Jamie and Ed, and to wrap them in her arms and protect them from
whoever was doing this.
Judy looked between Kim and Olivia. Kim was taken aback at the suspicious glint that had crept into
her eyes. I think Id like to be alone now.
Olivia was about to protest, but Kim shook her head and moved toward the door. Just let us know if
you need anything.
Judy inclined her head, although Kim doubted she would. The moment she and Olivia had been
ushered outside the heavy, scraping bolt of the lock was drawn.
She doesnt trust us, whispered Olivia.
Kim wanted to say something reassuring to Olivia, but what could she say? She was right; Judy
didnt trust them. But then, Kim didnt trust all the people she was surrounded by either.
No, admitted Kim quietly, she doesnt.
*

Kim rolled her eyes as she and Olivia entered the family room. Surprise, surprise, the family
members who belonged in that room were arguing.
Will got up and came over to them; he stood a few steps away from Olivia. Kim noted Jamie was sat
in the corner with the other pups. Pieces of paper and crayons were spread out in front of them. The
boys were engaged in their drawing, but Jamie was darting glances at adults who were arguing.
Kim tried to give her a reassuring smile. Kim and Jamies father, Wade, argued non-stop from the
moment they got married until the moment he left. Kim hoped that Jamie was too young to remember
that part of her life, but it distressed Kim immeasurably to think that her daughter could recall those
awful times. Seeing your mommy being slammed against the wall so hard she almost passed out was
not a good first memory for a pup
Ed came over and gave her hand a squeeze. She and her wolf felt marginally better at his comforting
touch.
Marie gave everyone a mirthless smile. I dont know why youre all arguing; its me that one of you
wants to kill.
Not in front of the children! cried Christine in a yelled whisper.
Dont talk to me that way, you worthless she-wolf! sneered Marie. Youre only here because your
redneck father happened to strike oil. Did you honestly think we would tolerate your lowbrow
company if it weren't for your father s money?
Christines cheeks flamed to a dark red and her mate let out a bellow of displeasure.
Do not speak to my mate that way! roared Harold Jr.; his eyes blazed a dangerous amber.
I will speak to her however I want; I control the familys money. Dont you dare forget that!
Jonathan let out a snort and downed a glass of whiskey. Really? I had no idea. Did you have any
idea, Ed? Will? Its the first Im hearing of it.
Keep your idiot comments to yourself, snapped Helena.
Jonathan smirked. Charming as always, hellcat.
Leave her alone, snarled Kurt.
Dont speak to my son that way! yelled Marguerite. Youre not family; you have no say in
anything that happens here.
Kim closed her eyes. What was with this family? They made the Borgias look like the freaking
Waltons! Enough was enough. Kim put her fingers to her lips and let out a loud, imposing whistle.
Look, I know Im not family, she started.
Not yet, corrected Ed.
But, this arguing is getting us nowhere.
Eds father bared his fangs at her but Ed put his body in front of hers and let out a low growl. In spite
of the situation, her wolf yipped like a puppy at Eds show of protection and Kim felt a tingle of

arousal. Yep, despite the danger and despite how adamant she was that she didnt like possessive
wolves who treated her like a weak female, she was getting turned on. She had a messed-up wolf. Or
maybe, its just that she was starting to like that behavior from Ed.
When Eds father quieted, she continued. The fact is, someone brought wolfsbane with them. And
somehow, it found its way into the cup of tea that Judy made for Marie and which she ended up
drinking herself. Maybe, it was an accident.
This was met with numerous snorts and rumbles of disbelief.
Ed jumped in, Yeah, maybe it was an accident. So if anyone wants to admit to bringing it with
them
There were grumbles and accusatory eyes swept across the room, but nobody admitted to anything.
As good an idea as it was, Kim did have to admit that she wouldnt admit anything in front of Eds
grandmother either.
If no one will admit to what theyve done, then well just have to search everybodys rooms,
declared Harold Jr., with more than a little hostility.
There were murmurs of annoyance and Helena jumped to her feet. Youre not searching my room.
Im a guest here, and I dont deserve to be treated like a criminal.
Kims wolf snapped her jaws; she strongly disagreed with that sentiment. Kim could see that Ed was
holding back his own objection. She gave another look at Jamie; as much as she didnt want Jamie
hearing any of this, she didnt want her out of her sight.
Harold Jr. fixed Helena with a furious glare, at which she was smart enough to incline her head in
submission.
Marguerite sniffed at Helena. You may have wheedled your way into our private party, but I
wouldnt say you were a guest.
Kim was felt somewhat pleased that, although Marguerite didnt want Kim for a daughter-in-law, she
wouldnt have been thrilled with Helena instead. It was a small consolation, although Kim did feel
very petty for thinking it. Her wolf told her to shut-up and enjoy the brief glimmer of a rainbow
while they could.
Helena stamped her foot as her cheeks dusted with red. Kurt shuffled as if he was about to get up and
defend her, but she gave him such a disagreeable look that he thought better of it.
I am a guest; Arthur invited me, she said through gritted teeth.
Anyone who didnt already know that fact looked at Arthur in surprise. He was in the middle of
pouring another drink and froze.
Did you? asked his mate, Jennifer in a faint voice.
Well, I, uh he stammered.
Helena folded her arms and tapped her foot. Tell her!
Yes, I did, he admitted quietly.

Jennifer looked between Helena and her mate for a few moments. Is there something going on
between you two?
Arthur looked at his mate in disbelief. How can you ask me that?
That isnt a no, Arthur, she murmured, her voice breaking.
Christine took Jennifer's hand and gave Arthur a look that told him if she werent so civilized she
would have already strung him up by his balls.
Enough! roared Harold Jr., everyone will have their room searched, end of discussion.
Helena curled her lip in disgust. Who will be doing the searching? Do I at least have the right to
know who will be pawing through my underwear?
Whoever draws the short straw, muttered Ed to Kim.
I will, declared Harold.
His mate let out a delicate cough, and he quickly amended that. I will be searching the rooms; I have
no intention of lingering on your underwear. And Jonathan will help me.
All heads turned to look at Jonathan. No one was even half as surprised as the wolf himself. Me?
Why me?
Because I said so.
Jonathan smirked and gave everyone a superior look. Dont worry hellcat, your underwear is safe
from me, too. Kim, if youd like to direct me to your underwear
Ed growled, and Jonathan hooted with laughter.
Harold groaned at his younger brothers. Shall we get on?
He strode out the room, and Jonathan shrugged before following him. The atmosphere ratcheted up a
notch at their departure. Everyone was trying to avoid making eye contact with everyone else. There
was a doom and gloom, foreboding mood about what they might uncover.
Ed gave Kims hand a squeeze. To think, yesterday her worst problem was that her future in-laws
didnt want her to marry their son. Now, she and her daughter were trapped on an island with a
potential killer. Or attempted killer. At least they hadnt been successful yet.
So far, it hadnt exactly been a relaxing holiday. It was somewhere along the lines as if Hannibal
Lecter were a travel agent. Horrifying.
Kim chewed on her cheek as her wolf paced uneasily. Whatever happened next, it was going to be
bad. As much as Eds family disliked her, she bore them no ill will and did truly like a number of
them. She just hoped that they could weather whatever figurative storm was coming their way.

Chapter Thirteen
Ed stared at the book he was reading. Under other circumstances, he was sure that The Great Gatsby
would be enjoyable. Just not under these circumstances.
With a sigh, he closed the book and put it down. Instead, he watched as Kim and Jamie made paper
airplanes together. He considered going over to join them, but he wanted to enjoy them for a few
more moments. His agitated wolf simpered as Kim shot him a small smile. Her plump lips curled
upwards, and her green eyes sparkled.
Six months ago, he couldnt even conceive being in a committed relationship, never mind asking a
woman to marry him. He had been content to flirt, and charm his way into womens beds. Hed had
girlfriends, but nothing lasting. He wasnt cruel or heartless; he just wasnt interested in anything that
would span beyond a couple of weeks. Hed had a close call with Helena, and he wasnt about to
repeat it.
But, that was before he met Kim. Even if she werent his true mate, he had a hard time believing he
could ever walk away from her. He was head-over-heels smitten, and desperate to have his beautiful
she-wolf become his.
He would have preferred it that she hadnt have been mated before, but, thankfully, she had never
blood bonded with her previous mate. Blood bonding would have left her with a scar on her shoulder
and a permanent tether to the son-of-a-bitch who got her pregnant.
Ed was in two minds about her ex. He wished she had never met him; by all accounts, he was a total
asshole. Yet, if Kim hadnt succumbed to his limited charms, she never would have given birth to
Jamie. He loved Jamie and could never, ever for one second imagine a world where she didnt exist.
He just wished that Kim hadnt suffered at the paws of Jamies father to get her.
Ed felt his muscles quivering as his wolf howled in fury. His claws pushed forward, and he sunk them
into the armrests of his chair, as he desperately sought to hold onto his control before his beast
wrestled it away from him.
Just thinking of the way her ex had treated her sent him wild. No male had ever treated her the way
she deserved before him. Of course, although he had never hurt Kim, he was no saint, and not
everything had been sunshine and roses for them.
*
4th January
Kim graced Ed with a wicked smile. He sipped at his beer absently as he watched her swinging her
hips, easily moving her statuesque form around Bar Luna.
The amused chuckles of Kims pack mates hit him.
Acksel, the packs Chief Enforcer, punched him in the arm. Kims thrown males out of here for less
than staring at her ass.
Ed gave them a cocky grin. I have special dispensation.

Jake Foreman, a Sheriffs Deputy and fellow wolf, shook his head. Your funeral.
Ed chuckled. Nah, by now, Kim was used to him ogling her. He practically drooled whenever he saw
her, not to mention how he reacted when he saw her naked. Its a wonder he didnt have a heart attack
every time her glorious body was unveiled to him.
Hed had a long day at work, and had driven to Bar Luna to relax and just revel in seeing his mate.
They wouldnt have much time, but he figured that after the Bar closed, he could help with her chores
and then they could retire to her office to either get naked or just snuggle and talk. He hoped it was
the former, that was definitely what his impatient wolf was gunning for, but he would be content with
the latter too.
He tensed as he scented other males arousal. He looked up and saw a group of rowdy male wolves in
the corner. They started hollering and making wolf whistles as Kim went over to their table.
They went quiet as she approached them to deliver their beers. One of them, a bullish looking wolf,
said something and leered at her. She replied in a voice too quiet for Ed to hear, and all the males
roared with laughter.
Kim left them and came back to the bar, a little less happy than she had been before.
Everything alright? asked Ed unhappily, as the peals of laughter continued.
She graced him with a beautiful smile. Of course, babe, Im used to it. Male grey wolves are
assholes.
Jake and Acksel let out a series of heys and whoas in objection. She rolled her eyes and ignored
them.
Kim bent down and gave Ed a quick peck on the lips. Back in a minute.
Ed grinned as he watched her disappear down the back corridor. His wolf whimpered like a love-sick
puppy.
When they first got together, hed experienced brief bouts of worry that people would think they
didnt belong together. All she-wolves were attractive in their own ways, but Kims beauty was
transcendent. She could have any male she wanted. Female grey wolf shifters tended to seek out the
strongest and toughest male they could find, so, at first, Ed had trouble believing that this she-wolf
could be satisfied by him. Of course, over the months they had known each other, this worry had
dissipated. It became clear that he was very capable of satisfying her. Both in and out the bedroom
A feeling of uneasiness assaulted him as he saw a male wolf called Frank disappear in the same
direction as Kim. He gripped his beer bottle as his wolf grew restless. It was probably nothing.
Maybe he was just going to the bathroom. But
A month ago Kim had disclosed her sexual past and Ed had done likewise mostly. It had been a
grueling experience listening to the inferior men who had been allowed to touch his mate. But, she
had listened to his list, with only a few sarcastic or catty comments, so he did the same.
Most of Kims ex-lovers were pack members and were now, thankfully, mated and had pups. But
there were one or two who were still on the loose, and one of them was Frank a wolf that Kim
admitted was an absolute aberration in her sexual past. Or should that be abhor-ration? Having met

him once, Ed could well believe it. The crude, surly fucker wasnt fit to even lick Kims boots. And
that was the ten-year-old pair that had been re-heeled several times, and was starting to smell kind of
fishy, but Kim insisted she keep because they were expensive and comfortable.
It was probably nothing. He must be going to the bathroom. Frank had already been swaying and
stank of booze when Ed arrived at the bar, and, since then, he had consumed a truly heroic amount that
would last Ed more than a week.
It was probably nothing. The more he thought about it, the less he believed it, and the more rattled his
beast became.
Abruptly, he stood up and followed in the direction of Kim and Frank, still clutching his beer bottle
tightly. His heart banged in his chest as he heard the sweet tones of his mate intermingled with that of
the belligerent voice of Frank.
They were in her office. Frank had followed her to her office. He had trapped her in her office. He
was threatening their mate! His wolf howled in fury.
No, Frank, just leave. Im not interested, murmured his mate.
Cmon, baby, why so cold? Back in August you couldnt get enough of old Franky, slurred the
odious male wolf.
Let go of me, asshole, she hissed.
You fucking whore! he spat.
Ed thundered through the door to see the drunken wolf had his hand around Kims wrist.
Kim looked at Ed in surprise and then horror, but Ed barely registered her. His eyes had darkened to
amber and his claws were out. He wanted to tear apart the fucker who dared to put his hand on his
mate!
Ed bellowed; Frank started to turn toward him, and Ed swung the beer bottle, smashing it against the
wolfs head. Fragments of glass shattered across his face and the dregs of beer splattered into the
cuts.
Frank gargled and slipped to the floor, letting go of Kim. Ed grabbed Franks shirt; he pulled him up
and started punching him in the face.
In between hits he snarled the words, You will not look at my mate again.
Vaguely, Ed was aware that he shouldnt have been doing this. That this was not how rational people
behaved. But his wolf was roaring in triumph at beating down this supposed rival for Kim. She was
his and only his. No one else could have her.
He continued until there were shouts and Jake and Acksel dragged him off Frank. Acksel held him
while Jake looked Frank over.
Kim pressed herself against the desk. Her chest heaved, and she looked away from Ed.
Is he alright? asked Kim, quietly.
Jake shrugged. Sure, hell have a sore head tomorrow, but most of that will be the drink. Its not the

first time Frank tried to sleaze over another wolfs mate and got a face-full of bruises for his
trouble.
Frank blinked at them. Wha appened?
You fell down and hurt your head, replied Acksel.
Ah, shit.
Jake picked him up. Yeah, cmon, man, lets find someone sober to give you a ride home.
I can probly drive myself.
Is your truck outside? asked Acksel.
Frank swayed on his feet. Nah, left it at home. Lemme go pick it up and then Ill drive myself hic
home.
Jake and Acksel hauled Frank out, laughing at the drunken wolf. As far as they were concerned,
Frank had made an ass out of himself, trying it on with a she-wolf, and had been put in his place by
the she-wolfs mate. For Rose, it was business as usual.
Kim wasnt laughing. Nor was Ed.
He waited until they had gone. I take it Jake wont be arresting me for that?
No, any more than he would have tried to arrest Alec when he attacked you. Its a pack town; the
rules are a little more flexible than in cities where therere more humans.
Ed nodded. Kim, I
You really scared me, Ed.
No babe, he thought sadly. She was using his name that wasnt a good sign.
His wolf whined at him to make it better. Im sorry.
She shook her head. Its not your fault.
So, youre not mad at me? he asked, slowly.
Kim looked up, and he felt a stab to his heart to see a tear trickling down her cheek. No, not mad.
You just you just scared me. I I didnt think you were like that.
Ed bristled. Like what? Did she not think he was capable of protecting her? Did she want him to be
weak and allow other males to slobber all over her? So, youre disappointed?
Kim rubbed her forehead. Not exactly, Im not explaining myself very well.
Ed raked his hands through his hair. No, youre not.
Maybe you should go, she blurted.
He watched her for a few moments, but she remained impassive as another tear slid down her cheek.
It took all his self-control not to march over to her and pull her into his arms. He just got the feeling
that he wasnt overly welcome at that moment.

In spite of his animals vociferous objections, he said, If thats what you want.
She breathed in and for a second he hoped she was going to ask him to stay, but instead, she told him
shed call him.
He nodded dumbly and left, trying to come to terms with the sudden shift in mood of his mate. A
thousand thoughts and worries flooded him. The loudest of which was that his mate was going to
leave him. And how could he ever survive without her?
*
Present Day
Ed looked up as his two brothers came back from the search of the bedrooms. His thoughts had made
him edgy and more than anything he wanted something, or rather someone, to be angry at.
While he was angry, everyone else was nervously curious.
Well? demanded Marie. What did you find?
Nothing, admitted Harold Jr., there was no sign or scent of any wolfsbane in any room.
Now what? asked his father, eyeing his eldest son and Alpha in disapproval. His contemptuous tone
of voice indicated that he would have sorted out this whole mess had he still been Alpha.
Harold raised his chin defiantly and stared down his father until the older male looked away. Now,
we will search the other rooms in the house. The wolfsbane was used yesterday; it has to be here
somewhere, and I doubt anyone could have taken it outside.
A peal of thunder duly cracked through the sky to emphasize his point.
Harold rubbed his neck. Well get started now. Jonathan?
Yeah, yeah, one second, let me get a drink, looking through Kims underwear was thirsty work.
Kim shook her head and gave him a sour look. Jonathan inclined his head at Ed, who in turn
frowned. His brother seemed to be motioning him over to the liquor cabinet. Did he want to make
another crack about Kims underwear? His wolf was already twitchy; one more comment might just
push him over the edge and make him throttle Jonathan on the spot.
Jonathan seemed to be bobbing his head like a darn turkey. Reluctantly, Ed went over to see what the
freaking hell he wanted.
I warn you, Im in no fucking mood, muttered Ed.
Well, its about to get worse.
Jonathan looked around the room and, turning his back on everyone, he passed a small bottle to Ed.
Ed knit his brows together. What was Jonathan up to? His face dropped as he realized just what he
had in his hand. Is this
Yes.
Where did you find it? Why havent you told anyone? How could you be so dumb as to keep this

from everyone?
Jonathan swirled his brandy before downing it in one and smacking his lips at the rich taste. I found
it in Kims room. Youre welcome.
Jonathan sauntered away to help Harold Jr. with the pointless search. Pointless in that he had already
found what they were looking for.
The wolfsbane had been in Kims room.
Fuck.

Chapter Fourteen
I want to play with the others. Jamie stamped her little foot and pouted.
And you will, soon. For now, just watch your show, and youll see them later.
Kim, Ed and Jamie were in Eds room. Ed had popped in a DVD of Emily Wolf to keep Jamie
occupied while they talked.
Kim was surprised when Jonathan came through the bedroom door. She was about to ask why he was
there when Ed shook his head. He locked his door and ushered the three of them into the bathroom.
Kim sat down on the toilet and let out a small laugh. These bathroom rendezvous are starting to
become a habit.
Ed winked at her. Yeah, gorgeous, dont ever say I never take you anywhere.
Ed sat on the edge of the bath, and Jonathan tested the sturdiness of the laundry hamper.
Kim looked between the two brothers. So, what exactly are we doing here?
Ed scrubbed a hand over his face. We need to find out who tried to kill our grandmother.
Jonathan raised an eyebrow. Are you sure? Shouldnt we just wait until theyre successful? Who
knows? Maybe theyll turn themselves in when the deed is done.
Kim gave him a look of concern and Ed was quick to reassure her. Hes kidding. Youre kidding,
right?
Jonathan rolled his shoulders. Sure, lets go with that. So, you actually think we can somehow work
out who it is?
I dont see why not, replied Ed slowly. Although he and his wolf had serious doubts.
Kims frame shook as she tried not to laugh. They both looked at her curiously.
She waved her hand. Sorry, its like an episode of Scooby Doo. Jamie used to love it.
Jonathan smirked. Shes right; Im Fred of course, he cast a mischievous smile at Ed, and I guess
that makes you Shaggy.
Ed clucked his tongue at his brother s childishness. No, Im Fred because Kims Daphne. You can
be Scooby.
Jonathan spread out his hands. Hey, I got no problem with Kim being Daphne to my Fred.
Ed opened his mouth to object when Kim shushed him. Guys, were getting off topic.
Jonathan gave Ed a censorial look. Youre quite right, Kim. Well pick this up later.
Kim shook her head. Dont you take anything seriously?
He gave her a wry smile. Ive found its best not to in this family. If you get too touchy or too
attached to anything, you end up getting hurt. Its better to be a joker.

Kim felt a pang at the hint of sadness in his voice and felt a flush of sympathy for her soon-to-be
brother-in-law.
Ed cleared his throat, as his wolf huffed. His mate should not be having a moment with his brother.
All of her moments were reserved for him and him alone. As I was saying, he hissed through
gritted teeth, we need to find out whos doing this and quickly, before anything else happens.
He and Jonathan gave each other significant looks.
Kim glared at them. You two are hiding something from me.
They both sucked in a breath to deny it, but Kim told them to confess or else.
Ed relented, but only because he thought the or else part might involve an embargo on any future sex
they might have. If they ever got off this damn, fricking island.
Jonathan found the wolfsbane in your room, he told her in a rush.
Kims eyes were wide as saucers and blood drained from her usually rosy pink cheeks. But, how
could
Ed took one of her limp hands. Somebody must have planted it there to frame you.
A hand flew to her mouth. Ugh, she felt sick, and her wolf started panicking. Fuck, what if Jamie
had found it? What if Jamie had got it on her skin?
God, the thought of her pup being hurt made her want to run out there and hug her until Jamie begged
her to stop. Which was usually after about five seconds.
She didnt, said Ed, gently. Jamies okay.
Kim nodded, but the nagging worry would not go away so easily.
Jonathan tapped his chin. So, lets see, who dislikes our grandmother? Who wants to get their paws
on money? Who might have a grudge against Kim? Who was in the kitchen when Judy was making
the cup of tea? And who is a psycho bitch? Anyone? Because Im sure coming up blank.
Kim rolled her eyes. You think its Helena.
Wellll...
But didnt you search her room looking for the missing engagement ring? Wouldnt you have
found the wolfsbane when you did that?
Jonathan thought about that for a second. Unless she had it with her; she had that huge straw basket
purse with her while she was sunbathing. You know, the one with the daisies all over it.
Im surprised you noticed.
He smiled. She was wearing a tiny, red bikini; trust me, I was looking.
Kim shook her head. Theres just one problem with this theory; she doesnt get any money if your
grandmother dies.
Ed pursed his lips. Unless she married someone who did.

Kim arched an eyebrow. You think shes still trying to hunt you down and drug you into marrying
her?
Ed let out a mirthless snort of laughter. No, I think shes trying to lure Arthur away from his mate.
And I think framing you would just be a bonus.
Jonathan let out a low growl. Its disgusting the way hes treating his mate so he can run around with
that bitch.
Kim and her wolf were a little surprised at the vehemence in Jonathans voice. Kim bit her lip as she
remembered the interlude between Jennifer and Jonathan she witnessed the other day. Maybe there
was more to their relationship too. Hell, this family was starting to make Dynasty look boring.
We still dont know that anything is going on between Arthur and Helena, said Ed placidly.
He didnt deny it, snapped Jonathan.
Kim let out a low whistle and looked at her mate. So, Helena has been with you, she then looked at
Jonathan, and you, and now we suspect shes seeing Arthur on the sly?
Both males had the sense to look a little sheepish, and Kim let out a sigh. Busy girl; how long
before Harold Jr. and Will get their turns?
Jonathan cocked her a grin. Nah, I think theyre safe, Im pretty sure Harold hates her, and Will
wouldnt know what to do with her.
Kim bit her lip; she doubted that was true, about Will, of course. She knew that Harold hated Helena.
She was pretty sure that Harold hated everyone except his own mate and pups. But even they werent
safe from his brusque and cold, businesslike attitude. With Will, however, she just already knew that
Helena wasnt his type.
So, were really going with the theory that its Helena?
Ed nodded. Yeah, because, if it isnt
It means that the only other suspects are family members or Kurt, and I doubt that wet drip of a wolf
would even dare to sneeze near our grandmother, concluded Jonathan.
Kim rubbed a thumb over Eds knuckles. He was starting to look a little green. I cant believe that
any of your family would
I can, jumped in Jonathan, looking far too pleased about the matter.
Yeah, I can too, admitted Ed.
It still didnt sit right with Kim. But
Jonathan chuckled. Oh, sweet, nave, kind, beautiful Kim - you have clearly been spoiled by a loving
family. Everyone in our family has a motive, even me and the boy scout over there.
Please! exclaimed Kim.
Okay, lets start at the top. Our father has been henpecked by his mother since the moment his father
died. Two weeks ago, grandmother was in a car accident and plowed her Mercedes straight into a

lemonade stand in the middle of a park. Dear old dad had her license taken away and ever since
then grandmother has been threatening to cut him out of her will. And given that daddy spent his
whole life working to double the family fortune you can imagine hes a little pissed.
Well, okay, yeah
Jonathan wagged his finger. Oh, Im not done. I'm told that about a month ago, the old dear fired
her assistant, Hilda. She accused Hilda of stealing and bad-mouthed her so she couldnt get another
job. Given that Hilda was a childhood friend of Moms, I doubt very much she's pleased. With Arthur
and Jennifer, its the constant jabs about not having pups. For Olivia, Grandmother is trying to force
her into an arranged marriage. For Will, grandmother is trying to force Olivia into an arranged
marriage. It would be enough motive for either of them. For old Harry, again its the money. She
takes pleasure out of trying to emasculate him and given that hes an Alpha - it really pisses him off.
He wont be sorry when she finally jumps on the highway to hell.
Kim frowned.
Oh, cmon; theres no way shes getting into heaven. Before we were born, she was once arrested
for attacking a maid with a hatpin.
Kims eyes bulged. Youre joking?
Hes not, muttered Ed.
Stabbed her a couple of times. She lived, and old Gramps threw enough money at the maid that she
just went away quietly.
Kims wolf whined in concern. She knew Eds family were rude and obnoxious, but she hadnt
actually thought that she shuddered. She really didnt know them.
For Ed, it would be the fact that Grandmother is threatening to cut him off if he marries you, and for
me, she managed to get rid of of a woman I was intending to marry. Hell, I need a drink.
Theres mouthwash in the cabinet, offered Ed wickedly.
Jonathan gave him an unimpressed look.
Why did Harold want you to search the rooms? asked Ed.
Jonathan pretended to shrug modestly. Apparently, other than Christine, Im only one he doesnt
think might have actually tried to kill the old woman.
Eds eyebrows shot up his head. You?
Jonathan placed his hand over her heart. Yeah, Im honored.
Why doesnt he suspect you?
I dont know. He knows I hate her, but, he figures if I were going to kill her, it would have happened
after she fucked up my relationship with with, with Ingrid. I hate to admit this, but old Harrys
really hoping its going to be you, Kim.
Kim groaned, and Ed snarled, so Kim shushed him. Cmon, babe, its not that big of a surprise. And
given that the wolfsbane was in my room, someone sure wants it to look like its me.

Ed grumbled. Look, we need a plan. Were going round in circles. All weve done so far is
establish that just about anyone here would want her dead. You know if this were a cop show
Jonathan snapped his fingers. Got it, we beat the suspects until one of them caves and confesses.
No! I was going to say we should set a trap for the killer.
Kim screwed up her face. It wasnt easy to tell your mate that he had a lousy idea, but she was about
to. I dont see how
No, the shrimps on to something, interrupted Jonathan. And I think I have an idea.
Ed inclined his head at his brother. To think, this guy flunked out of six different colleges.
No, I got kicked out of six different colleges.
Whats the difference? asked Kim.
Flunking out implies failing scholastically; kicking out implies you misbehaved so badly that no
amount of your familys money could force the dean to let you stay there.
Kim clucked her tongue. Ah, gee, you see? By not going to college, I missed out on all this.
Jonathan eyeballed her exaggeratedly and winked. When a gal looks like you, she doesnt have to
know anything.
Ugh! Gal? She knew Jonathan was just teasing to get a rise out of Ed, but, oh, she and her wolf
wanted to take a chunk out of him.
Whats your plan? hissed Ed, squeezing Kim's hand a little harder than necessary.
*
Kim crouched outside of Helenas room. It was a dumb plan. It was never going to work. Her wolf
concurred vociferously. Neither of them wanted to be shivering outside Helenas room in the middle
of the night.
More than anything she wanted to be back in her big, comfortable guest bed, with her arms curled
around Jamie. But, there was a murderer to catch. Okay, attempted murderer.
At the moment Jamie was safely ensconced with Olivia in her room. Kim liked the young she-wolf,
but she still had her doubts, and almost hadnt been able to part from Jamie. But, Ed had put his hand
on his heart and had said that Olivia could absolutely be trusted. Kim still hesitated, and Ed asked her
if she trusted him. Obviously, she answered yes, she did trust him with the most important thing in
her life her pup. Plus it didnt hurt that Jamie was away from their room; it still nettled her that
someone had put something as dangerous as wolfsbane anywhere near her pup. Who knows what
could have happened if Jamie had come across it the consequences would have been too much to
bear. The anger over this persons viciousness was driving her.
She was sure that Jamie would be okay. She wasnt putting her faith in Olivia; she was putting her
faith in Ed. Her trust in him had been rock-solid since the moment she met him well, almost every
moment since she met him.
Shed had the self-doubts about why he didnt want her to meet his family. Naturally, now that shed

met him, she realized it wasnt her he was embarrassed by

But the only other time had been when Ed attacked a drunken wolf who was hitting on her. It was a
little over a month ago. At the time, it shocked her beyond reason. It shouldnt have, but it did. She
knew what males wolf shifters were like; she knew how they reacted to another male approaching
their female, but she just thought that it would be different with Ed. Unlike the other males shed been
with, he had been tender and flirty with her from the very beginning. A big departure from gruff and
rough. And to see him flip out like that she was ashamed to admit she was disappointed at the time.
She didnt feel that way now, but it had taken her more than a few days to come to terms with it.
*
11th January
Hi.
Hi.
How are you?
Ed gripped the phone as he stared at the document on his desk; the printed words swam in circles.
Im fine, he lied as his beast snapped in disapproval.
It had only been a week since they last saw one another, but he and his beast had been hurting badly.
With each passing moment, the ache was stronger. Which was ridiculous; theyd gone for longer
without seeing each other, but the fact that there was a rift between them made the time pass
interminably slowly.
I miss you, she admitted quietly. Her wolf whined at her; the beast couldnt understand the womans
reticence.
I dont know what to say.
Do you miss me? she asked, a hopeful tinge entering her voice.
He let out a long breath. You know I do, but it wasnt me that told you to leave.
I know, and Im sorry. I just Kim let out a sigh. I just felt scared.
You said that already. I would never hurt you, how can you even imagine I would?
Kim twisted the cord of her ancient phone between her fingers. Its just that when I first started
seeing Wade, he was all charm and
Youre comparing me to him? he demanded in disbelief. His wolf was chomping at the bit to see
his mate, but even he was crushed to hear she might think that.
No! she cried quickly, I just I just cant be with someone who can be so casual about that kind of
violence. And I know its dumb; were wolf shifters, we are more aggressive and brutal than other
species. But, I lived with a wolf shifter for over a year who thought nothing about hitting me because
his favorite sports team lost. I just need to know that you dont you wouldnt
A sob caught in her throat, and Ed wished more than anything that he could be with her to wrap his
arms around her and make everything better. Although, he knew he could never really do that. Shed

have the hurt of her first marriage with her forever.

Kim, gorgeous, I dont take anything about our relationship lightly. Im not a violent wolf by
nature. God, the last time I was in a fight was when I was 13 with some bullies at school, and it was
over the school nurse. We all had a crush on her and were arguing about who was going to get to see
her for our made-up illnesses.
Kim let out a sniffle of laughter, and it eased his ache a little.
Course, they were bear shifters, so they beat the hell out of me.
Kim cooed in sympathy, and slowly his wolf was beginning to brighten.
It was fine; the joke was on them, I was beaten up so badly I did actually have to go and see her.
She giggled lightly. Always looking on the bright side of life.
I can now that I have you. Im sorry I scared you.
No, its my problem, she admitted sadly, not yours, and I shouldnt be blaming you for your
nature.
I overreacted. I saw what I thought was a dangerous male pawing at my mate, and I overreacted.
But, I swear, Kim, the only thing that riles up my beast is the thought of either you or Jamie getting
hurt. If either of you were in danger, I I wouldnt be able to control him. But thats the only time.
And youre wrong, its not your problem, were in this together. Now and forever.
Now and forever, she echoed.
I love you, Kim.
I love you too.
*
Present Day
Kim held her breath as a bolt was drawn back on Helenas door. The corridor was so dark that even
with her shifter eyesight Helena wouldnt spot Kim squashed behind the massive, overhanging plant.
She had also spritzed herself with scent-covering spray that Jonathan carried around. She didnt ask
why on earth he would need to carry it with him at all times.
She saw the vague outline of Helena, slightly illuminated by the lamp in her room. Helena stood and
listened for a few seconds; luckily, the storm beating against the house drowned out any tiny noises
Kim might be making. Helena sniffed a couple of times, and, seemingly satisfied, turned off her
light, carefully closed her door and disappeared down the corridor.
Oh, lord, here we go!
As quietly as possible, Kim followed, disentangling herself from the monstrous plant. Stealthily, she
slipped down the corridor. It had to be said, she felt more like Don Smart than James Bond.
Just before everyone retired for bed, Jonathan had slipped a note under Helenas door. Yep, this was
his plan. The anonymous note indicated that the wolfsbane had been found. That was it. Now, they

were going to see how Helena reacted. Suspiciously, apparently.

Kim followed as closely as she dared, hoping that Jonathan and Ed were nearby. Ed hadnt wanted
her to take part in this, what he called, idiots game. But Kim was the only one slender enough to fit
behind the plant, so they had no choice. Ed grumbled that there was always a choice, but she shushed
him. Grudgingly, he had relented and said that he would be nearby in Jonathans room, listening for
any trouble.
Helena seemed to be making her way to the kitchen the opposite direction to Jonathans room.
Aww, hell, what if she was just going to get a midnight snack? She sure was acting strangely if she
was. Every few seconds she stopped, listened and sniffed. She was checking that no one else was
around. Not the actions of someone just after a piece of leftover cheesecake.
Kim continued to follow until Helena went into the kitchen. Kim was debating whether to go in and
pretend she was getting a snack when she heard Helena gasp and a thump to the floor. Kim growled;
she ran into the kitchen and flipped on the lights.
Helena was crumpled in a heap on the floor, blood pooling under body. Kim knelt; carefully she
turned Helena over to find a seeping, bloody wound and a knife lying under her. Lord, shed been
stabbed! Her wolf howled at her.
Helenas frightened eyes widened even more. Look out she breathed.
Kim heard a noise behind her and just as she turned something heavy hit her head. Son of a b
Then, blackness.

Chapter Fifteen
21st February
Kim awoke with a start, anxiously looking around the room. Where were they? Shed show them!
Her wolf snapped and snarled on high alert; there was no sneaking up on her this time.
Ed came out the bathroom, and, on seeing her awake, he ran over to her and squeezed her tightly.
Thank fucking hell! he exclaimed, his voice full of emotion. You scared the bejeezus out of me.
Kim clutched at his body and enjoyed the warm, familiar feeling of being locked in his arms. Melting
against him, the aches and pains of her body didnt feel that bad.
Wheres Jamie? What happened? Hows Helena? Wheres Jamie? she said in a rush.
Shhhh, its okay. He made soothing circles on her back and placed butterfly kisses on her neck.
He quivered slightly, and Kim realized he must have been almost as scared as she was.
Helena should be okay; you took a nasty bash to the head and Jamies fine; shes with Jonathan,
theyre both on the same emotional level, so they seem to get along.
Kim tried to snicker, but the reverberations in her head were too much. Ooh, dont make me laugh.
Sorry. Not just for that, but for not being there. I put you in danger, and you got hurt. I shouldnt
have I should have I should have been there.
Its not your fault
It is, he insisted, I should have protected you. I let you down, Im a terrible mate.
Ummm hmmm, youre the worst, she mumbled, taking a deep breath of his fresh, lovely scent.
He pulled back slightly and scowled at her. Her wolf was taking the same stance too, not liking Kim
berating their mate.
What? I was just agreeing with you. Also, last month I fell over and twisted my ankle, why on earth
didnt you protect me from that? And two months ago, I broke a glass and had a big cut down my
palm. What about that, hmmm?
Its not the same, he muttered grumpily.
You cant protect me from everything. I chose to be there and I chose to run into that kitchen, but its
okay, Im fine, maybe a little worse for wear, but still fine.
Gently he pulled her back down on the bed and laid next to her. I dont know what Id do if I lost
you.
Kim cupped his face. Hmmm, you could try speed dating?
Ed harrumphed. Now whos joking like I would ever need to go speed dating. With this charisma,
the ladies flock to me.
Please, Ed, Im feeling a little tender, I dont really want to roll around on the ground laughing

myself silly right now. Seriously, hows Helena?

His lips twitched imperceptibly. Perfect poker face. It wasnt good, but, hopefully, she should pull
through. If she were human, she wouldnt have stood a chance.
Kim stared at the ceiling. Poor Helena. She tried to warn me, you know? Right before I
ummm
Ed shifted uncomfortably. His wolf had been howling for their mate all night, and even though she
was already healing, the beast would not let up.
What happened to Helena had not been pleasant. It also illuminated the fact that Helena wasnt their
wannabe killer. Unless the house held two potential murderers no, that didnt bear thinking about.
Did you see anything?
Kim thought about it for a few seconds. Not really. I heard Helena fall, so I ran into the kitchen and
turned the light on. Thats when I saw her. I guess whoever it was hid in the pantry until my back was
turned. I didnt scent anything either. But then, I was covering my scent, so it wouldnt be that big of
a surprise if they did, too.
She hadnt managed to catch a glimpse of her attacker s face. The only thing she noticed was that
they were wearing black before that pan came down on her head. Shed had dreams though. Or
rather, the same dream over and over. Each time, she was attacked in turn by Eds family members.
She pictured each of their faces on her attacker. That was going to give her a few nightmares.
Gingerly she reached out and felt the lump on her head. Yeesh, it felt to be about the size of an egg.
Her wolf whined at her and Ed tried to calm her. They were okay; they were going to be okay.
Has Helena said anything yet?
Not really, she was pretty out of it. Marie gave her some prescription painkillers which shed been
hoarding since her car accident. Then Judy stitched her up as best she could, and she seems to be
healing. It was damn close to her heart. She was trying to ask if you were okay, though.
Kim gave a sad half-smile. Do we know why she was in the kitchen?
No, not yet. Were hoping shell be a bit more lucid later today. We cant get to her at the moment.
As soon as Kurt saw her he broke down and started telling her he loved her, and that he was going to
protect her. My eponymous Alpha punched him in the face for breaking our little sister s heart.
Well, as lovely a gesture as that was, Im sure her heart is intact.
Ed raised his eyebrows but didnt respond to that. Right now, Kurts holed up in Helenas room,
whispering sweet nothings to her while she recovers. None of us are allowed in. Judy was adamant
that she needed to check on Helena, but he wont relent.
Now what, Fred?
Well, Daphne I havent a fucking clue.
*
Ed, Kim, and Jamie were playing pairs with Jamies set of Emily Wolf of Wolften Hollow playing

cards she had brought with her. Jamie and Ed were both cheating outrageously, and Kim was
pretending not to notice.
Christine and her pups were playing Twister in the games, but Kim just didnt have the energy for it.
The rest of the family were in the kitchen with the caretakers, Ethel and George. They were trying to
make lunch together while scrubbing out Helenas blood stain.
The blood didnt bother them very much. They were shifters, who regularly turned into wolves and
hunted down small creatures. They could handle the blood. It was just the act that led to the blood
spill that was preying on peoples nerves.
Most of the family had taken to moving like a herd of gazelles. None of them wanted to go anywhere
alone. Plus, given that one of them might be a poisoner, they were watching each other like hawks
while preparing food.
The weather was starting to improve. The water still looked choppy but at the least the rain and wind
seemed to be letting up.
The shrill ringing of the phone almost made Ed jump out of his skin. The thing had been dead for a
few days, and it was a startling way to find out it was once again working.
Kim covered her mouth to stop herself from hooting with laughter. Jamie was not so kind; she was
shrieking from a fit of giggles.
Ed grabbed the phone and mumbled a grumpy hello.
Hello! Oh, finally! Ive been trying to reach you for days.
Ed frowned. Hilda?
Yes, of course, she replied impatiently. If it werent for the fact that she was a lady, she would have
added duh at the end of that sentence.
What do you want? he blurted without thinking.
Hilda clucked her tongue. Dont be rude, Edward.
Ed almost expected her to tell him to sit up straight. He would have, too.
Im sorry, he said quickly trying to unruffle her feathers, Im just surprised youre calling.
Hilda huffed into the phone. Why wouldnt I? I wanted to wish Marie a happy birthday.
Ummm, Im sure shell like that.
Hilda let out a bark of laughter. You and I both know thats not true. But really, I just wanted to
check on how she was getting along with Judy. She hasnt driven the poor woman away yet, has she?
Ummm, no. What was happening here?
I know Marie said not to call, and I that I was to enjoy my vacation, but I cant help but worry about
her. Lord, help me, I even miss her cranky put-downs, laughed Hilda.
Eds frown deepened. Ummm, youre on vacation?

Why do you keep ummming, Edward? Irritation laced her voice. What is the matter?
I just I thought my grandmother had fired you! he spluttered.
Hilda paused for a second before letting out an enormous peal of laughter. Is that what she told
you? she asked in between hiccups.
Well, someone did he muttered, he couldnt quite recall who.
Ed could almost picture Hildas chubby cheeks shaking. Oh, she is full of mischief. No, my
daughter just had a baby; Im spending a few months up here in Ontario getting to know my
grandson. Ill be back in April. Forgive me, Edward, I forgot to tell your grandmother that you were
bringingah a date to the island. I was a little frazzled with making arrangements for being away.
I hope I didnt cause any distress.
Ed looked at Kim, currently engaging in a very one-sided arm wrestle with Jamie. Jamie was
winning. No, its fine
How is Judy working out? Ed could hear the tension in Hildas voice. Against all odds, Hilda
actually did like his grandmother, and Hilda was very protective of the elderly she-wolf. He imagined
it wasnt an easy decision to take a long vacation away from her.
Well he didnt know whether to broach the subject that one of his family members accidentally
poisoned her.
I was a little unsure, but Marie seemed content. It was actually a stroke of luck meeting her. She
actually from a red wolf pack in Portland. We literally ran into each other at a coffee shop about a
month before my daughter gave birth; we were both fighting over the last cruller. I won, obviously.
But then we started talking, and it turned out we had a lot in common. Judy used to be nurse too, like
myself. Of course, I only ever worked in a care home, but, apparently, Judy worked at a big hospital
in New York dealing with the victims of wolfsbane poisoning. She said that after a while you built up
a kind of tolerance to it, but I cant see that you would want one. Nasty business. Can you imagine?
Someone trying to poison one of us with wolfsbane - makes me shudder. Edward? Edward? Are
you still there?
Ed dropped the phone and sprinted toward the kitchen. He was vaguely aware of Kim and Jamie
calling out to him, but he couldnt wait; he had to stop Judy before she hurt anyone else.
Stop! roared Ed, as he burst into the kitchen.
His mother dropped a cup full of tea and scolded him for surprising her.
Ed ignored both her and the looks the rest of his family were giving him. He must have looked like a
maniac with his blazing amber eyes and fully drawn claws. But, he didnt care.
Judy, stop whatever youre doing, right now, he ordered hoarsely.
His beast was frantically trying to get out, and Ed was struggling to contain him; the animal wanted to
hurt the she-wolf who had threatened his mate, his daughter and his family.
Judy turned round from chopping vegetables. Ed sucked in a breath as he saw the knife she was
holding.

Kim and Jamie burst into the room; Ed howled at them to stay back.
Something wrong, Ed? asked Judy placidly.
Ed, said his father warningly. Whats going on?
Ed breathed in and out deeply, not taking his eyes off Judy. He could feel his fur pushing forward.
Judy lied. She used to treat shifters who had been poisoned with wolfsbane. She has a tolerance to
it.
His mother, Marguerite gasped. You poisoned yourself?
Jonathan got up and growled. Which meant hers was the only room we didnt check, and she was the
only one above suspicion. Brilliant, really.
I disagree, snapped Harold Jr., she brought a toxic poison into our familys house. She could have
hurt one of the pups.
Judy shrugged and idly pointed the knife at each of them. I wouldnt hurt the pups, but I was doing
this for love.
Love? scoffed Marie.
Judy nodded her head vigorously. Her eyes were wide and flushed with amber. She looked at
Jonathan. I did it for you?
Jonathan looked like someone had just told him he was the Queen of Sheba. He couldnt have been
more shocked. Me?
For you and Ingrid. My niece
Jonathan looked like he was about to explode. Ingrid is your niece?
Yes, and the sweetest creature youd ever meet. She loved you, and she wanted to marry you. Judy
smiled sadly, before fury stole over her features. But, oh no, she wasnt good enough for the high
and mighty Buchanan family, was she? Once your precious family got their claws into her, she was
kicked out on her ass.
She chose to leave me, said Jonathan quietly.
Judy waved the knife around. No, she did what she thought she had to. Dear old Grandmother here
offered her money to go away but she refused. So, she informed Ingrid that if you married her you
would be kicked out of your family, your pack, youd be cut off without a cent and shed make sure
you couldnt get a job anywhere. She said shed ruin her grandsons life before she allowed a whore
like my niece to marry into her family.
Jonathan flicked his eyes to Marie, who didnt flinch. The elderly she-wolf sniffed. I stand by that;
she was entirely the wrong sort of girl for you.
Judy smiled bitterly. Oh, but she didnt stop there. When Ingrid refused to leave you, she lost her
job. The bank suddenly foreclosed on her parents mortgage; her father lost his job. Ingrids parents
could barely afford to feed their younger children. So Ingrid gave in. Old Granny here made things
right and agreed to stop harassing her family if she promised to stay away from you. The evil bitch

offered her some money again, but Ingrid refused. She hasnt been the same since.
Jonathan scrubbed a hand over his face. You cant just kill my grandmother Although,
admittedly, he didnt say it with too much conviction.
Judy looked at him pleadingly. But dont you see? If I get rid of her, you can be together, you,
Ingrid and the baby.
Jonathan tensed. Baby?
Another condition of your grandmother s deal, spat Judy, she didnt want you to know.
How could you do this to me? roared Jonathan.
Marie jutted her chin at her grandson. I stand by what I did.
You see? You see what she is? demanded Judy. Shes a monster! If we get rid of her, the three of
you can be a family.
Jonathan took a small step toward the trembling she-wolf. Does Ingrid know youre here?
Judy shook her head like a naughty child and giggled. I wanted it to be a surprise for the babys first
birthday. I wanted to give Ingrid the family she deserves.
We can still be a family, Jonathan told her gently, you dont have to hurt my grandmother.
Jonathan held out his hand, slowly moving to take the knife. Ed glanced back to see Kim had pulled
Jamie behind her.
Judy flicked her eyes around the room uncertainly while Jonathan made soothing noises. She
suddenly snapped, and reaching out she grabbed Olivia, pulling her back against her and pushing the
knife perilously close to her neck.
Will roared. Get off my mate!
He clawed at his clothes as he shifted to his red wolf. He snarled and lunged Judy. She held out the
knife, and it tore through his shoulder as his fangs pressed into the furious she-wolf.
Will! screamed Olivia.
Ed grabbed Olivia, dragging her out of the way as Will struggled. The pain of his injury pulled at his
shoulder as Judy stumbled and scratched at him with her claws. Judy was able to throw him off; she
roared as she shimmered into her own wolf.
Their brother, Harold swiftly shifted and pounced on her. She tried to scramble away, but Harold was
too strong. He clamped his jaws on her neck and held her firmly down, until, at last, her struggles
petered out, and she started whimpering.
Olivia wriggled out of Eds grasp. She flung herself at Will, kissing him fervently and telling him
she loved him.
Ed looked between the various looks of shock, anger, and relief that adorned his numerous family
members. He turned his back on them and strode over to his mate.
She was still staring at his family in stunned shock. He scooped up Jamie and took hold of Kim's

hand.
They were his family now, and he was damned if he was going to let anyone take them away from him.

Chapter Sixteen
16th March
The she-wolf bounded through the woods, happily weaving in and out of the trees. She spotted a red
streak to her left and yapped, pushing herself to go even faster.
It was a mild night, and she reveled in the slight breeze ruffling her fur. She heard a slight growl and
leaped in the air as the red wolf careened into a tree.
She was slightly worried until he stood up and started shaking out his limbs. She pranced around in a
circle, wagging her tail at him, and he started barking, which slowly morphed into laughter as he
shifted.
Ed knelt on the ground, chuckling at his mate. Show-off
She stopped and shimmered until the six-foot redhead sat before him.
I just like seeing you run into a tree, it never gets old.
Slowly, seductively, she crawled over to him. He held still as she licked his neck and inhaled deeply.
It was the night of the full moon. Jamie, along with numerous other pups, was happily being spoiled
by the Alpha female, Rosalee and the Betas mate, Liv. Shed come home tomorrow and tell Kim that
Livs cookies were better than hers and that Rosalee was a lot more fun to watch Emily Wolf with
sigh.
After the incident, they got off the island as quickly as possible. Thankfully, the storm had died
down somewhat, and the police were able to make it out there to take Judy into custody, and help get
everyone away.
When the local cops searched Judys room, they found numerous vials of wolfsbane. They dreaded
to think of what she had planned for all of it.
On the plus side, they had found Kims engagement ring. Or rather, the thief had returned it. Kurt had
taken it. He was besotted with Helena, but she wanted nothing to do with him because he didnt have
any money which is why she set him up with Olivia. Kurt, though, was determined to win her, and
went through all the family members rooms looking for small things to steal and sell. He didnt
bother going through Judy or Kims rooms he knew they didnt have any money. Kurt said he did it
for love.
Again, another fool going to extreme lengths and blaming it on love. It was enough to make Kim
sick.
Kim wasnt happy about it, but Ed barely said two words to his family members before they left. She
was worried she was coming between him and his family, even though he reassured her that she
wasnt. But, when they got home, Ed made swift work of packing up his things and moving to Rose.
Kims mom, Angela, was more than happy to welcome Ed into her house while he and Kim looked
for their own home. He still had to wrap up his outstanding cases at his law firm, but a few more
weeks of commuting and hed be as free as a well, a wolf. Soon enough, he could take up the job

offered to him by the Alpha, Adam.

Kim smiled as she heard her pack mates howling in the distance. Or rather, their pack mates. It was
official; Ed was part of her pack. He had been welcomed with open arms by her Alpha. Seriously,
total bromance.
There was one thing preying on her mind, however. Well, actually two.
First of all, she hadnt even begun to think about how she was going to track down her deadbeat ex,
never mind how she was going to wring a divorce out of him. She shuddered at the thought that he
might actually want to see Jamie and become a part of her life. He hadnt made any move to reach out
to her in the last few years, but the fear remained. Wade never wanted to be married or have a kid.
But, after Kim got pregnant, the two of them were pressured into a very unhappy marriage by the old
Alpha, who saw females as more of a commodity than anything else. Thank god things had changed.
Maybe Kim was being high-handed, Wade was Jamies father after all, but she didnt care. She didnt
want Jamie to ever see him again. The last time shed left Jamie alone with him, shed come home to
find Wade passed out drunk and Jamie lying at the top of the stairs, screaming her little head off. Kim
dreaded to think what might have happened if she hadnt come home at that moment. She wanted
Wade to stay out of her pups life forever.
The other thing preying on her mind was the issue of bonding with Ed. Or more like, when the heck it
was going to happen. Shed assumed that hed have been begging her to bond with him since the
moment they moved in together. But, alas, no, he hadnt said one peep about it, and it was really
starting to piss off her wolf.
She looked at him, and he grinned, baring his teeth in a boyish smile. He looked so sweet, and yet she
knew he wasnt. Not if the things they got up to were anything to go by.
Ed? she cooed.
Mmmm hmmm?
Eds eyes started to drift downwards, taking in her delicious curves. His eyes shimmered to amber,
and another part of his anatomy started paying attention too.
Kim snapped her fingers and pointed to her face. Eyes, up here, buddy.
Painstakingly slowly, he dragged his gaze back to hers. Sorry, he lied.
She settled her hands on his biceps. Ed, I want to bond with you.
Eds wolf snapped to attention. His face lit up, and his eyes burned with more intensity than a
thousand candles. You do? he asked hoarsely.
Kim nodded and bit her lip. Do you?
Youre joking, right? His wolf roared excitedly. Theyd been waiting for this moment since they
first caught her ambrosial lavender scent back in September.
Ed quickly stood up and tugged her to her feet. Okay, lets shift and run back to the house, theres
not a moment to lose!

He had to get her back home, in their bed and pinned beneath his body before she had a chance to
change her mind.
Kim remained still, and a flicker of doubt assailed him. Do you do you want to wait? His wolf
whimpered in disappointment, but if it was what she wanted
She didnt say anything and he inwardly sighed. Im sorry; youre right. This is important; it
shouldnt be rushed. We can book a hotel in Alexandria, and make a weekend of it
Kim slipped out of his grasp and nimbly ran over to a large tree. Nonchalantly, she leaned against it.
No, I dont want to wait. I want you, now.
Ed was a little confused until he realized what she meant. She wanted to get down and dirty in the
middle of the woods! Are you are you kidding?
Kim shook her head. Uh-uh.
Ed looked around, convinced there were prying eyes perving on his mate. But but any one of our
pack mates could wander up and and theyd see us! he spluttered.
And it wouldnt be anything they hadnt seen before. What do you think everyone else is doing right
now? Ill bet all the single wolves have found someone to, ahem, satiate their need with while all the
mates wolves have peeled off to be with their mates.
Well, I guess thats true
Kim stretched her arms up over her head before casually allowing them to travel back down. Her
hands ghosted over her full breasts and Ed let out a groan.
She smirked at him as her wolf wagged her tail expectantly. There was no way he was ever going to
say no to her.
Youre not telling me that Ed Buchanan, lady killer extraordinaire, has never had sex al fresco, are
you?
Ummmm
Ed swallowed, and his wolf panted as she smoothed one hand over her flat stomach before letting it
glide down to her nub.
Oh, god
She circled the tender flesh before dipping her fingers into her slit. Kim let out a lusty moan, and Ed
couldnt contain himself.
He roared and rushed over to her. He knocked her hand away and aligned himself with her entrance.
The honey wept from her, waiting for him to take her.
Kim clutched at his shoulders, impatient for him to give her what she needed. Her wolf was dancing
about, urging her on.
He looked into her amber-fused eyes. I love you, he growled gutturally.
I love you too, she murmured as she wriggled her hips. Hurry!

Ed pressed his lips to her as he pushed inside her. She sighed into his mouth as the divine invasion
made her nerve endings tingle.
Drawing back from her mouth he howled and began thrusting inside her. She couldnt last long; she
was far-too worked up. All the pent-up waiting and longing from the moment they met was bubbling
inside her, demanding release.
Kim clenched her inner muscles around him, smothering his manhood. He grunted at the exquisite
tightness and hooked one of her legs under his arm. He pushed her leg up against her body, opening
her even further to his excruciatingly pleasurable assault.
She thought back to all their times together, not just the lovemaking, but the dates, the flowers, the
cuddling, the hugs. He was everything she needed. He was her wolf. Her true mate. Her soul mate.
Ed drove himself inside her and exploded; he pushed his fangs into her skin, marking her as his. Yes,
she was his, now and forever. Kim screamed as her own release thundered through her body, and she
eagerly sank her fangs into his neck.
Their wolves howled in unison as they felt each other s love and lust for one another. Finally, they
were bonded.
Trembling they sank to the ground while lazily sealing their wounds.
I love you, she murmured again. Shed never get tired of saying that.
I know. And I knew you loved me the moment you saw the size of my big
Ed!
He chuckled. I was going to say checkbook.
She groaned. Jeez, I wish you had said penis.
Ed preened. Why thank you.
Idiot.
Yeah, but you love it.
He was right; she did.

Chapter Seventeen
30th March
Kim clutched at the wheel. Her wolf howled, half in fury and half in self-pity. Two weeks they had
been bonded, two freaking weeks, and already he was sneaking around, taking private phone calls and
coming home late. She couldnt believe it! It had taken Wade more than three months to start acting
like a tool!
No, really, she couldnt believe it. Even though she had witnessed his odd behavior with her own
eyes, she still had trouble actually accepting it.
It had started a week ago when Ed kept getting odd phone calls late at night. Phone calls which he
actually ran outside the house to take because he didnt want her to hear.
Her mind leaped to the possibility that he was having an affair, but neither her heart nor her wolf
could really settle on that to be true. Theyd spent months together, plus they were bonded and
engaged for hells sake! Why would he suddenly turn around and pick up with another woman? A
brazen hussy woman, no doubt.
No, there had to be a good reason for what he was doing and she was damn well going to find out
what it was.
She was wound up into a tight knot after reading a suspicious text message on his phone. She hadn't
been snooping, no siree. Well, not technically. Ed had mentioned meeting up for lunch, if he could
get away from the office, and Kim had tried calling to make sure he was still up for that. She tried his
cell, and she heard the familiar ring tone of 'Please, Please, Please Let Me Get What I Want' drifting
toward her from the kitchen. Hed left his phone at home.
She'd picked it up and was startled as a message flickered over the screen. Well, how could she not
read it? It was right in her darn hand! It was from someone called Sandy Coyle and told Ed that they
were running late and would see him at the Angry Moose Diner at 10am.
So who the hell was Sandy Coyle? Why was Ed meeting her at a Diner at 10am?
Lord, if he was having an affair, it wasnt a particularly glamorous affair. Meeting up with your
adulterous partner mid-morning in a dive like the Angry Moose was hardly love story mark two!
She knew the Diner well too well. It was situated half-way between Rose and Alexandria, and Kim
had been a frequent, not to mention reluctant, visitor when she and Wade were still together. It was
awful, but they served alcohol all day long and it used to be owned by a friend of Wades. Plus, Kim
later found out, Wade had been humping the skunk shifter waitress, who he eventually ran off with.
Not that Kim really cared by that point
But why would Ed go there? He would hardly fit in the with Diner's usual crowd.
Kim felt queasy, and her animal mewled in sympathy. She felt her past and current relationships
meshing together, and she didnt like it one bit.
The easily recognizable Diner was within sight. It looked even more worn and sad than the last time

shed been there.

She glanced at her watch. It was almost 9.30. She wasnt sure what time Ed was due to arrive, but he
couldnt be far away.
Her stomach flipped as she pulled into the parking lot and saw Ed getting out his sports car. Flashy,
piece of imported trash! Ugh, everything bugged her today. She wanted to cry, scream, yell and
throw up at the same time.
Briefly she had the idea of stealthily watching him to catch him in the act of whatever he was doing,
but that thought was quashed by overwhelming hurt and fury.
She pulled up next to him and jumped out her truck.
Eds eyes widened in surprise. Kim?! What are you
How could you do this to me? she demanded angrily before bursting into tears.
Ed dropped his briefcase and rushed over to her. He pulled her unwilling body into his arms and
stroked her hair. Gorgeous, Im sorry. I was going to tell you tonight when it was over; I didnt
want you to get upset.
Her bottom lip trembled. So you are having an affair! she cried in between hiccups.
What?! Ed looked like as startled as if an abominable snowman had just walked up to him and
asked him how his day was going. His wolf was prancing around in worry. Of course, Im not.
But you just said
He shook his head. I thought you knew about Wade.
She pulled back; it was her turn to have the abominable snowman look. What about him?
Ed frowned at her. So you dont know why Im here? he asked slowly.
Kims cheeks pinked a little. I saw a message on your phone from someone called Sandy saying
they were going to be late.
Ed sighed and let out a small chuckle of relief; he stopped on seeing the disapproving glare on his
mates face.
Sandys a private detective; I hired him to find Wade.
I dont understand. Kim bit her lip.
Ed reached out and took her hands in his. Right after you told me you were still married I hired
someone to find Wade. I wanted you to marry me, and I knew that couldnt happen while you were
still married to him.
But, I told you I was still married the first night I met you.
He gave her a bashful smile, and she felt herself melt a little. Yeah, I knew the first night we met I
wanted to spend my life with you. I didnt realize it would take so long to find him though.
Apparently, he hasnt had a permanent address or paid taxes in quite a while.

Kim groaned. Typical.

Ed continued, But, a week ago, Sandy found him. He was living as a wild wolf up near the Canadian
Rockies. Sandy approached him, and Wade would only agree to meet with me to discuss the divorce
if I got him some new clothes and paid for a plane ticket back here.
She cast an eye over the Diner. Im guessing he picked the venue.
Not my usual haunt, is it?
Kim pursed her lips. No, but it used to be his. I spent many date nights here. Take it all in, this was
my life before I met you.
Ed looked at the Diner with revulsion. You deserved so much more. His wolf agreed with him
vociferously on that matter.
I already have so much more.
She curled herself into him for a hug, and he kissed her bonding mark. She and her wolf trembled in
happiness.
Im sorry I looked at your phone and came here, she told him, her voice muffled by his shoulder.
Dont be sorry, you are free to look at my phone anytime you want, and hey, if you wanna follow me
around, by all means, do. You might ruin your own surprise parties, but I dont mind. Besides, my
last stalker wasnt nearly as sexy as you.
Your last one?
Ex-boyfriend of an old client dont ask. Im sorry I didnt tell you about trying to find Wade. I
wanted to wait until it was all sorted; I didnt want you to have anything to do with him. His voice
took on a hard edge, and he tightened his arms around her. But I should have talked to you; I should
have checked you were okay with me doing this. I just wanted you to be free from him, and I wanted
Jamie to be mine.
Kim lifted her head to look at him; her eyelashes with damp with tears but her face looked hopeful.
What do you mean?
Ed shrugged lightly. I want to adopt Jamie, so legally Id be her father. Id need to get your
permission too but I
Kim stopped him with a kiss. At first tender and sweet, it turned hungry and passionate within
seconds. Her wolf roared in glee. Their mate was so perfect!
She pulled back panting from the intensity. Thats wonderful; Im so so
She started choking up with tears again, and Ed cocked her a smug smile. Yeah, I am pretty
wonderful, arent I?
She slapped him on the arm and giggled.
They held each other for a few minutes until Ed sighed. I should probably go in. Wades probably
waiting for me. I told him to order whatever he wanted while he waited for me to arrive.

Kim let out a long breath. Big mistake.

Right, wait here and
Im coming too, she declared, firmly.
His animal growled in disapproval. Thats not a good idea.
Kim wasnt about to be shaken from her resolve. I need to be there. I want him to show him that he
cant push me around anymore. Im stronger than I was when I was with him, and I want him to see
that.
Eds jaw ticked as his wolf was scrambling to think of a reason not to let her go in there. There was
the obvious one - his violent nature. But Ed doubted he would actually try to hurt her in broad
daylight in the middle of a Diner. No, he preferred to hit women in the privacy of his own home.
He wont care that youre grown, plus your face is blotchy from crying, he told her sullenly.
Nice try, but I'm still going in. She gave him a sour look and then pulled out her compact for a
little damage control.
Look, I want us to go in there together. Were a team, right, babe?
Ed considered whether he could get away with tying her to the car. Darn it, he hadnt brought their
handcuffs. They were covered in red fur they werent exactly something he wanted to drop out of
his briefcase in front of clients. Im guessing that no matter what I say, youre going in there, right?
Kim didnt say anything.
Ed, in spite of his wolfs objections, softened his stance a little. Yeah, you're right, were a team.
She took his hand and gave him a reassuring smile. Then lets go hit a home run.
He rolled his eyes. Gorgeous, I really dont think you know enough about sports to be using sports
analogies. Besides, when you say team, I think of Batman and Catwoman.
Her shoulders shook. Theyre not really a team.
Sure they are! Now lets get this over with.
*
Kim immediately spotted him. He had more white hairs, a spare tire around his once-toned stomach
and his rugged face, instead of aging gracefully, seemed to be turning into a craggy mess. But it was
him alright. He was even sat in the same booth where shed suffered through so many horrific date
nights.
He looked up and smirked when he saw her. The same feeling of nervous distaste that shed come to
associate with him bubbled within her.
She led her mate over to him and wordlessly they sat down. Ed gave her hand a reassuring squeeze as
he looked the other male up and down. Thank god Jamie took after Kim.
Wade yelled at the waitress to bring over another double order of steak, fries and onion rings.

Kim silently huffed. It was 10 in the morning. Do you want some coffee to go with that heart
attack? she asked with mock-sweetness.
Wade fixed her with a cross glare. Still got a mouth on you, I see, he rumbled nastily.
Ed cleared his throat. Mr. Harmon, Im Ed Buchanan, we spoke on the phone.
Wade grunted and held up his cup. The irritated looking waitress sauntered over at an unhurried
speed and topped him up. She wearily asked if Kim and Ed wanted anything and they both said no.
Ed started pulling documents out his briefcase. Ill make this quick. As we talked about on the
phone, you are here to sign the divorce papers and the adoption papers.
Wade leaned an arm over the back of the booth and began picking at his teeth with a toothpick. Every
so often he slathered his tongue over them and then resumed with the toothpick.
Kim simmered at the disgusting noises he was making. Ed sat placidly watching him, with one hand
gently stroking Kims thigh.
Wade let out a sound of disgust. What do I get out of it?
Kims wolf snarled. Ugh! You already got new clothes, a plane ride, and a mountainous breakfast.
Thats more than you deserve!
Wade smiled horribly. Nice ring, Kim.
Kim flinched and instinctively looked at her engagement ring. It wasnt flashy, but it was beautiful
and obviously expensive.
Wade sniggered. Im guessing that if I dont sign, I can drag out this divorce and custody battle for a
couple of years. Do you think lover-boy here will wait for you, Kimmy?
Ed breathed in and out a couple of times and flashed his most disarming smile. Hed come up against
some pretty tough judges in his time Wade had nothing on them. His beast was raging, but Ed was
able to remain calm. Wade was just a washed-up loser who abused and dumped the best thing that
ever happened to him. He was half the man Ed was.
Ill wait as long as it takes, replied Ed smoothly. Although, I doubt it will more than a month or
so. I have some good friends in family court who dont take too kindly to males who skip out on
their wives and pups, or those who hit them. You have two choices; you can sign the papers now, and
youll be free to do whatever you want. Plus, I will gladly give you the five hundred dollars in my
wallet to cover your bill here, and then some. Or, we can take you to court, and you can spend the
next four years paying Kim the money you owe her for child maintenance payments you missed. Its
your decision, but, either way, I already have both Kim and Jamie, so Im happy.
Wades lips twitched. Show me the five hundred.
Slowly, Ed took out the bills and laid them out on the table.
Wade narrowed his eyes. Fine, Ill sign.
In no time at all, Ed had the papers out, and Wade put his scrawl on them.
Lets go home, said Kim earnestly.

They stood up, and Wade sniffed the air before chuckling hollowly. Cant say Im surprised,
Kimmy. Figures you trapped him into marriage the same way you trapped me.
Kim furrowed her brow. She was about to open her mouth to ask him what the hell he meant when Ed
shook his head. He picked up one of the hundred dollar bills and passed it to the waitress.
Hey! What are you doing? yelled Wade.
Making sure you pay your bill. Ed winked at the grateful looking waitress. Keep the change.
With that, he took Kims hand and led her out into the sunshine. Kim was still confused when Sandy,
the private detective showed up. Ed was pleased to say he hadnt needed Sandy after all. He thanked
Sandy for all his hard work and told him to send him the bill.
Kim leaned against her truck, and Ed eagerly placed a hand on her stomach and pressed himself
against her soft body.
What did he mean about trapping you? she asked, still crabby at her Wades jibe.
I think I know, gorgeous, he murmured excitedly as his wolf whimpered. Do you think Jamie
would like a baby brother or a baby sister?
Kim sucked in a breath and said the first thing that came into her head. Crap on a cracker!

Chapter Eighteen
14th April
Kim, gorgeous, Im home.
Im in the bedroom, she called.
Ed grinned to himself as his wolf growled lasciviously.
The pregnancy news had been unexpected but not unwelcome. She was now a month pregnant and
was absolutely glowing, not to mention how horny she was.
Ed had been a little peeved that her ex-husband scented her pregnancy before him, but he got over that
pretty quickly. Nothing could diminish their happiness.
He took the stairs two at a time and was delighted to find Kim sat at her dressing table in a sexy black
dress.
His wolf roared in appreciation. Damn, you look good.
Her beatific smile reflected in the mirror. How was your first day?
That day, he had started work as legal advisor to the pack owned construction company. Unlike his
old job, there was no stress, no pressure, and everyone actually liked each other. It was a pretty
relaxing way to spend a day, in comparison.
He walked over and brushed a kiss over her neck. Good, even better now that Im here. This is a
very pretty dress.
He started playing with the zipper and she gently slapped him away before brushing her hair.
Are we going out or something?
Kim tensed a little, and he sensed her nervousness through their bond. Hey, babe, you know how
you love surprises?
Uhhhh he couldnt remember ever saying that.
Well, Moms on a date and Jamies sleeping over at a friends house, so I invited your family round
for dinner surprise!
What?! he roared as his wolf howled.
Kim jumped up and slithered around the other side of the bed. Just remember, before you start
yelling, I am carrying your child. You wouldnt want to upset me, would you?
She pouted and gave him puppy dog eyes.
Ed shook his head and pursed his lips. You seductive manipulator, he teased.
She fluttered her eyelashes and giggled. He jumped over the bed and pulled her down on top of it.
They rolled around kissing until Ed allowed Kim to pin him on his back, and she sat over him,
straddling him. He put his arms under his head and just enjoyed the view

She sobered a little. Seriously, Im sorry I didnt tell you. I just thought if I gave you advance notice
youd try to back out of it.
Youre not wrong, he admitted.
I want them to know that were having a baby, and I want to invite them to our wedding. If they
come, they come, and if they dont, we wont be any worse off. I know what happened on the island
was pretty rough, but you can't stay mad forever. Plus, I like some of them.
Ed let out a bark of laughter. Yeah, I like some of them too. Well, four of them, and two of the four
are just married to my brothers.
You dont include Jonathan in your four? I like Jonathan.
Yes, and he likes you, too, he grumbled, a bit too much if you ask me.
She ignored that remark. Id like to see Will and Olivia again; I want to know how theyre getting
on.
Im was surprised about them being mates. I swore that Will was lusting after you when the two of
your first met.
Kim tut-tutted. That was just your over-active imagination.
Ed looked at her curiously. I think you were the only one who wasnt surprised that those two are
mates.
Kims cheeks pinkened. Olivia might have told me.
And you didnt tell me?
She leaned down and nipped his chin. Im sorry; she asked me not to. She was upset and already in a
state about it. Will wanted them to be together, but Olivia was just too worried about what your
family would say given that they grew up like brother and sister.
Nah, me and Olly, we grew up like brother and sister. Will and Olly. there was always something
more. They were more like best friends.
Kim gave him the stink eye and folded her arms. You told me that you and Liv grew up as best
friends.
Kim didnt get jealous over Eds childhood relationship with their Betas mate, Liv. For one thing Liv
was mated to Alec it wasnt like she was running around single. For another, if it hadnt been for
Liv asking Ed to come to their small town for moral support, she never would have met him. But
maybe there was actually something in their past
Ed snorted. Not that kind of friend; never that kind of friend.
Hed never been able to picture Liv in a romantic style. When he saw her, he just thought of her in the
footsie pajamas that she used to wear when she slept over. The four of them, Liv, Olly, Will and Ed,
would sit up all night telling ghost stories. Liv was just as unappealing as either Will or Olivia as far
as he was concerned
But when he saw Kim His whole body came alive as electric arousal shot through him, and his wolf

went wild.
Ed ran his hands over her thighs. You have nothing to worry about there.
Kim gave him a naughty little grin and wriggled her hips, brushing her sex over his. She opened her
mouth to speak when the doorbell rang.
She heaved herself off him. Rain check?
Or, we could turn off the lights and pretend were not home? he suggested hopefully.
Kim glanced down at his bulging erection. Try thinking of baseball.
His wolf wagged his tail but Ed just groaned. Dont say baseball! That makes me think of teams,
which makes me think of Catwoman and that leads me to you in a leather catsuit!
Kim slipped on a pair of heels and visibly shook as she forced herself not to laugh. Try thinking of
your grandmother in a catsuit!
She bolted out the room as he hurled a pillow at her.
He lay back on the bed for a few beats. His wolf grumbled. What was he thinking a few moments
ago? Oh, yeah, that nothing could diminish their happiness. Now he wasnt so sure.
Fuck, it was going to be a long night.
*
Ed sauntered into the living room to find all his siblings and their partners assembled and looking
mighty uncomfortable.
The only person who seemed relaxed was his radiant mate. She moved around the room handing out
drinks.
Happy that everyones thirst was quenched, she walked over to Ed. Standing together, he slipped an
arm around her waist. His hand rested comfortably on her stomach, while she was half turned to him
and had her arm round his shoulder. The way they held each was so easy, so natural; they fit together
so snugly like jigsaw pieces. Well, they were made for each other...
Ed said hello to everyone. His brother, Harold uncomfortably explained that their parents and
grandmother would not be joining them.
Ed was more than a little relieved. Harold duly informed them that the older generations of the
family were vacationing in Europe until the incident with Judy became old news.
Ed was pleased to see that Will and Olivia were holding hands, even though they didnt look overly
happy.
Kim smiled at Will. Hows your shoulder?
Instinctively he flexed his arm and shrugged. Its fine.
Now, its fine, corrected Olivia irritably.
Will huffed. It was fine then and its fine now.

You could have been seriously hurt! complained Olivia.

I was protecting you; I was protecting my mate!
Olivia extricated herself from him and stood up. She put her hands on her hips. And what was I
supposed to do if you got yourself killed?!
Will let out a little growl. If I remember correctly, at the time you wanted nothing to do with me.
You said brothers and sisters shouldnt mate! You were too busy running around with that Kurt
asshole!
Olivias cheeks reddened. Nothing ever happened with Kurt, and I was right to be worried. Mom,
Dad, and Grandmother wont even talk to us anymore! They said what were doing is sick!
She burst into tears and Will quickly swept her into his arms. She sobbed into his shoulder as he
made soothing noises.
Im sorry, said Ed, fiercely, they have no right to treat you that way. If the two of you want to be
together, you should be.
Hear, hear! exclaimed Jennifer as she got up to fill up her glass. Her third glass that evening. This
wine is delicious, Kim, what brand is it?
Kim pressed her lips together to stop herself from snickering. Well, legally its called wine drink
and its the closest thing to wine that I serve in the bar. She looked around the room. We dont get
much call for wine around here.
Well, its delicious, she gushed pouring herself a very full glass.
Arthur watched her closely but didnt say anything.
Olivia had calmed down to a few hiccups. Christine tapped Harold on the shoulder and grudgingly he
got up and placed a hand on Olivias shoulder, ignoring the soft snarls of her mate.
Theyll come round, just give them time. He patted her shoulder, ill at ease with the show of
emotion.
Thanks, Harold, said Olivia. It means a lot that youre on our side.
Thoroughly embarrassed, Harold went to sit down by his mate who smiled at him approvingly.
Jonathan snorted as he got up to refill his glass with wine drink. Youd think our parents would be
more compassionate; its almost like they want all their children to hate them.
Hows Helena doing? asked Kim, trying to change the subject.
Olivia gave her a small smile. Shes okay, she said in between sniffles. Shes planning on moving
away; Kurts almost persuaded her to marry him.
Best of luck to the poor, deranged fool, muttered Jonathan.
Ed pursed his lips. Helena was not his favorite subject, but he was curious about something. Back
on the island, what was Helena doing in the kitchen in the middle of the night? Why did Judy stab
her?

Olivia haltingly recounted what Helena had told her. Helena saw Judy put the poison into the teacup
on that fateful day; at the time she didnt think anything was amiss, but after Judys reaction to the
poison, she started to figure out what was going on. Helena then tried to blackmail Judy and arranged
a meeting in the middle of the night. Judy had refused to give Helena any money, and so a struggle
had ensued, leading to Helena being stabbed.
The fact that people knew Helena had attempted to blackmail Judy was the main reason Helena was
moving as far away as possible from Alexandria. She feared the retaliation of Marie, their
grandmother.
With regard to Judy The rest of the story, which they had already half-guessed, came out after Judy
was taken to hospital and put back on medication. Years spent coming into contact with wolfsbane
had a permanent effect on Judy, causing brain damage and behavioral problems. Although, nobody
had realized how bad her condition had become.
Everything that had happened had just been luck. Well, lucky for Judy. She knew about the Buchanan
family through Ingrid. The young she-wolf had cried on the shoulder of her aunt many times when
she visited. She just had no idea how Judy would react to her woes.
Judy started following various members of the family. At first she had no intention to do them any
harm; she said she was just interested to see what they were like.
One day, Judy happened to spot Hilda at a coffee shop. Judy easily inveigled her way into Hildas
affections and encouraged her to take time away from her job when her grandchild was born. Then,
hey presto, Hilda turned to her new good friend, Judy to cover her job. From then, it was just a
matter of making herself look innocent and killing Marie. She knew Marie wouldnt drink that tea
again; she was sick of the flavor and refused to drink anymore. Judy had plans to put the next lot of
wolfsbane in Maries food. She also mixed up Maries medications as much as possible, to keep her
as docile as possible. Judy was convinced that once Marie was dead, everything would be better. Judy
was adamant that she wasnt trying to hurt Helena when she stabbed her; Helena was just an annoying
obstacle to her real target. Judy was awaiting a psychiatric evaluation, but it was doubtful that she
would ever be permitted to leave the hospital.
Kim jumped as the kitchen timer dinged.
Oh, dinner s ready. Please everyone, take a seat at the table, and Ill bring the food out.
Ed was about to volunteer to help when Jennifer beat her to the punch. Kim thanked her and winked at
Ed.
Kim took the lasagna out the oven, and Jennifer sniffed appreciatively.
That looks and smells delicious. Im so jealous; Im an awful cook. Its no wonder Arthur never
wants to spend any time at home. Her voice trembled a little.
How are things between you two? asked Kim softly.
Jennifer shook her head and furiously dabbed at the tears that threatened to spill. The same; I barely
even see him anymore. I dont know what to do sometimes I think about leaving, but I dont want to
lose him.

Jennifer grabbed a dishtowel and started sobbing quietly.

Jonathan noisily entered the room. Hey, whats taking so long? Were all He stopped when he
saw Jennifer.
Moving quickly, he pulled Jennifer into a hug, and she wept into his shoulder.
Kim stepped from foot to foot, unsure whether she should stay or go. She turned her back for a
couple of seconds to retrieve a salad from the refrigerator. Spinning round, she found a furious
Arthur glaring at Jonathan.
Arthur roared the word mine and lunged at his brother. He tore Jonathan away from Jennifer, and
the two males struggled, crashing into the various pieces of furniture. Kim and Jennifer jumped out
the way. However, the lasagna was not so fortunate. It soon tumbled to the ground.
Jonathan held up his hands in surrender and Arthur duly punched him on the nose.
Arthur turned back to his mate, a look of sorrow on his face. Are you sleeping with him?
What?! How dare you! yelled Jennifer. Her misery was swiftly replaced with outrage.
The rest of the family crowded at the kitchen door watching with interest.
Jennifer growled. Youre the one whos been running around with god knows who! You're the one
who's...
Im infertile! bellowed Arthur unexpectedly.
Jennifer stilled. What?
Arthur looked away from her. It means I cant have pups.
She marched over and forced him to look at her. I know what it means! But how do you
He shook his head sadly. We were trying for so long that I thought something was wrong. I had a
doctor check me out, and I cant give you pups.
She groaned. Why didnt you tell me?
You wanted pups so badly that I didnt want to disappoint you.
So youre not having an affair? she asked, frowning.
Arthur huffed at her. Of course not, how could you think that?
Jennifer looked at him in disbelief. Ummm, the lying, the staying out to all hours, inviting Helena to
the island
His nostrils flared. She blackmailed me into inviting her. She found out that I was that I cant
Shes friendly with one of the nurses at my doctor s office and he told her that I was infertile. She
knew that we were trying for a baby and she threatened to tell you the truth. He took both her hands
in his. I swear I would never even look at another woman.
So, why have you been avoiding me?
He looked sheepish. I just panicked; I was afraid.

Of what?
Of you leaving me. It was easier to go to a bar and get drunk than face you. I mean, why would
you stay with me? Im not your true mate, and were not blood bonded. There was no reason why
you would want me. Wolf shifters are supposed to be virile and produce dozens of kids, but Im
Im a freak. Who wants to be with an infertile wolf shifter?
Happy, relieved tears slipped down her cheeks. I want to be with you, Arthur. I love you, and I dont
care about that. I love you with all my heart and as long as I have you, nothing else matters.
Arthur smiled hopefully. You mean that?
Jennifer brought his hands to her lips and kissed them. Of course I do. Id be honored to blood
bond with you and show you just how much I need you. I love you and I dont ever want to lose you.
Arthur seemed to be on the verge of tears too until he snarled and jerked his head at Jonathan. What
about him?
Jonathan has been a shoulder to cry on and thats it. I thought you were having an affair. I thought
you were pulling away from me; I thought I wasnt good enough.
Youre more than good enough, my darling; its me that
Jennifer shushed him. If we want kids we can adopt them. For now, lets just be happy that weve
found each other again.
They wrapped their arms around one another; Kim, Christine, and Olivia made awwww sounds.
Jonathan clucked his tongue. Awww nothing, my nose fucking hurts!
Harold snorted. Get over it.
Kim was happy that Jennifer and Arthur seemed to be back and track, although she was super-pissed
about her lasagna. The darn thing had turned out perfectly!
Ed, Kim sighed, lets get some pizza.
*
A few hours later, everyone was leaving. Well almost everyone. Jonathan had consumed so much
wine drink that he was passed out on the couch, snoring with the intensity of a thunderstorm. But,
those that were leaving were a lot happier than when they arrived. Some frank discussions and
pepperoni pizzas were apparently just what they needed.
They had all congratulated Kim and Ed on the baby, and had been surprised when Christine
announced she was also pregnant. Kim marveled that Harold was able to look both annoyed and
joyous about becoming a father for the fifth time. They all also agreed to come to the wedding.
Harold spoke to Ed as he was leaving.
Look, Im sorry about what I said before. I was wrong. Im pleased youre happy with Kim.
Ed couldnt have been more surprised if his brother had just confessed to being abducted by aliens.
Whats brought about your change of heart?

You marrying Kim doesnt change anything within our pack. It might be different if she were
joining the pack, but she isnt, so you are free to do as you wish. But I doubt Grandmother will give
you her blessing.
I dont care about the money, and neither does Kim, said Ed hotly.
Good, because you wont get any. But, I dont want you to leave the pack on bad terms.
Ed smirked. Do I hear the voice of Christine?
Harold gave him a sheepish smile. She might have told me what to say.
Youre lucky to have Christine.
I know, he said with feeling as he bounded down the porch steps to his car.
Ed softened a little toward his brother. The Alpha was arrogant and bullish, but he did at least love his
mate and children. It was one of the few arranged matings Ed had come across where both parties
were actually happy and in love with one another. He should probably nominate Christine for
sainthood.
Ed came back in the house to find Kim covering Jonathan with a blanket. He growled at her
thoughtfulness; all of that should be reserved for him. She stuck out her tongue and pulled Jonathans
shoes off.
She flipped off the light and led Ed upstairs to their room. Soon enough, they were naked under the
covers and snuggled together.
Will he be alright on the couch? asked Kim. It is kind of lumpy.
Oh, Im sure hes slept in worse places.
He told me he tried to go and see Ingrid; she wont even talk to him.
Ed felt a wave of sadness from his mate. His wolf urged him to make it better. Im sure shell come
around. Jonathan can be very persuasive. He hoped.
Kim propped herself up on an elbow. Were okay, right, babe?
Never better, gorgeous. His wolf couldnt agree more. Hed never imagined ever feeling this
content.
And you really dont mind about losing your allowance?
Her voice held a note of worry, and his wolf whined at him.
Of course, not. Im not 12-years-old; I can get by without my familys money. I already have
everything I need, he reassured her.
Kim grinned and kissed him. She climbed over his body and started undulating her hips over his sex.
He groaned as his blood started rushing to his member. Besides, he breathed, we still have my
savings.
She stopped moving and frowned at him. His wolf yipped in disappointment.

You have those?

Ed ran his hands up her thighs. Sure, havent I mentioned that before?
She shook her head.
Carefully, he sat up and his hands reached around her waist. Yeah, I have enough for Jamies college
fund, a new house for us, a college fund for the new baby, and whatever else we need. He leaned
forward and licked his tongue over her neck. What would you say to a honeymoon in Paris?
Romance for me and you, Disneyland for Jamie itd be perfect.
Kim nipped his ear; she and her wolf did like the sound of that, however That sounds amazing, but
you dont have to spend your money on that. Id be happy just staying home. And happy as long as
she never had to go to the Caribbean ever again.
His wolf grumbled at that. First of all, its our money now. Second of all, whether you like it or
not, I am going to spend the rest of our lives whisking you away to exciting new places, showering
you with gifts and treating you like the goddess that you are. And I wont hear any argument on the
subject, got it?
Kim pretended to mull that over for a moment, while hiding her delight over what he said. Well, its
going to be rough on me I wont deny that, but I guess Ill just have to learn to live with your total
adoration.
Thats my girl.
Yes, she was. Mate. Mine.

Epilogue
Kim and Ed were married a couple of weeks later. It was a small wedding with just Eds siblings,
spouses, nephews and Kims mom and closest pack mates. Jamie acted as bridesmaid. The three of
them then went to Paris for a long honeymoon, which included a lot of trips to Disneyland. Jamie
was obsessed with meeting every single Disney princess.
Arthur and Jennifer were still discussing their options over adoption. For now, they decided to take a
sabbatical from work and go traveling. They wanted to spend as much time with each other as
possible to make up for all the lost time recently.
Olivia and Will, in spite of their parents and grandmother s objections, were tentatively striving to
make their relationship work. It wasnt easy. The rest of their pack also looked at them like they
were committing an atrocious sin by being together. The pack members knew it wasnt incestuous,
but they considered the relationship to be too taboo to be right.
They decided to move away. Will transferred to a different college in Playa Lunar a city where
pretty much anything goes. Within a matter of weeks, they were blood bonded, living together and
very happy.
Christine was delighted to find out she was carrying a girl. Harold absolutely put his foot down and
said this was their last child. Christine agreed, but without much conviction. She was pretty sure that
if she ever did want another baby, she could talk him round.
Jonathan cut himself off from the family money and took up a job as a high-end car salesman. There
was something about him that meant he could sell anything to anybody. What was the old saying? He
could sell ice to the Eskimos. Well, that. Especially if the Eskimo happened to be female.
Regarding his own female, Jonathan was still trying to convince Ingrid to come back to him. She was
adamant she wanted nothing to do with him, but he was hopeful that she would change her mind.
Kim and Ed soon found a suitable house for their burgeoning family and were thrilled to discover
Kim was carrying a boy. They were even more thrilled when Jamie started calling Ed daddy. It just
slipped out one day, but then it soon became the norm. The three of them were delighted, and
couldnt wait until it became the four of them.
Mate. Mine.

Hello!
Thank you for reading!
If you have enjoyed this and would be interested in reading more, please do sign up for my newsletter
from my website: http://elizabethannprice.wix.com/eapricenovellas
The site includes info on previous novellas already available, those planned for the future, as well as
the one Im working on right now. So please, take a look!
Best wishes
Elizabeth

List of novellas currently available:
Grey Wolf Pack Romance Novellas:
A Mate for the Beta Book 1
The Alphas Mate Book 2
The Librarian and the Wolf Book 3
Running from the Vampire into the Arms of the Wolf Book 4
Wolves for the Bears Book 5
The Witch, the Wolf and the Snowstorm Book 6
Patient Mates - Book 7
The Omegas Mate Book 8
The Wolf and the Bobcat Book 9
Christmas for the Wolves & A Wolf for Valentines Day (collections of short stories also available from
my website)
Mating the Red Wolf Book 10

Supernatural Bounty Hunters Romance Novellas:
Foxy On the Run Book One
Dead Man Running Book Two
To Catch A Snake Book Three