The Perfect Mate (2 page)

The door shutting behind me brought me back from my visual tour. I turned to see the big guy had left and for some reason I felt bereft without him. I frowned at how odd that felt. A throat cleared bringing my attention forward again. A large antique desk sat to my right where Pack Master Dane stood. I walked over and bowed slightly. I stood up but kept my eyes down until he addressed me. It wouldn’t be helpful to show disrespect right off the bat.

“Susan Riley, thank you for meeting with me this evening. Please have seat,” He said pointing to one of the two antique chairs sitting in front of the desk.

Once I was sitting I lifted my eyes to the Pack Master’s. I took inventory of his looks. Right away I could tell he was good looking in a California surfer type way, which was quite unusual for a Pack Master. His blonde hair was almost shoulder length and looked like he ran his hands through it too many times. He had crystal clear, blue eyes that shown bright against his tanned skin. He was shorter than the big guy and not as bulky, I acknowledged. When he sat down I noticed he had a relaxed feel to his posture but his eyes gave away his stern resolve.

“Good evening, Pack Master Dane. Thank you for inviting me to your home. It’s quite stunning,” I said truthfully.

He nodded once. “Thank you and please call me Nathaniel.”

I acknowledged him with a nod of my own then sat quiet and still until he began his inquisition. “So Susan, you’ve been in town for two days?” He asked.

“Yes.

“What are your plans for while you’re here?”

“I’m looking for a job and a place to rent.” He raised an eyebrow in question, but I stayed silent. If he wanted to know something, he was going to have to ask me out loud. I wasn’t about to give anything away by accident.

“How long are you planning on staying in the Savannah area?”

I shrugged my shoulders. “I don’t know. I would like to find a place semi-permanently.” I smiled sheepishly at my wording, but was knocked for a loop when he smirked as well. “I, uh, might have to leave at some poin, but I’m hoping not for a long time.”

Nathaniel leaned back in his chair stretching his legs out in front of him and folded his arms across his chest. “Where are you from?”

I sat silent. Here’s where things were going to get rough. There were certain questions I wouldn’t answer, for my own safety. Nathaniel’s eyes narrowed and I swallowed the lump forming in my throat. The other two Pack Masters didn’t hurt me for not answering, but there was a first for everything.

“What’s the name of your pack?” He asked. When I didn’t answer he asked, “Why did you leave them?” I still didn’t respond. Nathaniel sat up straight, un-crossing his arms. He leaned forward placing his elbows on the desk and folded his hands in front of his face. He tapped his mouth with his index fingers with a look of deep thought crossing his features.

“You know Susan; you’re coming awfully close to being disrespectful tonight. I don’t know the rules of your old pack, but we don’t tolerate that behavior here.” Nathaniel growled, but his baby blues told me he was more annoyed than angry.

“I mean no disrespect, Pack Master. There are just some things I would prefer to keep to myself, for my own safety. I can promise that I mean no harm to you or your pack, or the town for that matter. I just want to find some peace.” I pleaded with my eyes for him to understand. I wouldn’t beg, but that was more than I’ve ever offered as an explanation. He could take it or leave it. Oh, but I hoped he'd take it because I didn’t want to leave yet. I needed a job. My cash was depleting quickly.

After staring at me for what felt like forever, tapping his fingers against his lips, he finally nodded. “Okay, Susan, you can stay, but you have to answer my next question truthfully.” Before I could respond he asked, “Did you leave your pack because you’re a wanted criminal?” It was my turn to stare and make a decision. If I didn't’ answer I had to leave town and if I did answer he would want to know more and then he’d probably make me leave town anyway. I was screw either way. There was something different about Nathaniel that was making me want to trust him. The meetings with the other Pack Masters never lasted this long. Nathaniel seemed like he genuinely cared about people. It made me feel like I could tell him everything, unburden my soul. I cursed myself. That was dangerous thinking.

He kept his gaze on me as I nibbled my bottom lip and I knew my time was about up. I made a hasty decision. I had good instincts and I followed my gut as much as I could. My gut was telling me Nathaniel was a man of honor and would not be careless with my story.

“Yes and no,” I finally said.

Nathaniel’s expression didn’t change. “Yes and no,” He repeated. “Can you elaborate?”

I nodded and ran my hand through my wild red hair. After taking a deep breath and letting it out slowly I told him. “I’m from Vancouver, Washington.” I paused at the look of recognition on his Nathaniel’s face. Of course he would know of Vancouver, but was he friends with my enemy? It was unlikely because of the distance between our packs but not impossible.

I relaxed when he said, “I don’t know the current Pack Master of that area, but I have heard of Gray. Not good things, I might add.” I nodded my head. I had never heard or thought any good things about Pack Master Gray.

“When Gray took over a couple years ago things changed drastically in the pack. Our population decreased rapidly. Mostly the female population which has caused the birth rate to lower. If he keeps up his tirade, they'll be wiped out.”

Nathaniel looked confused. “What do you mean? How is he responsible for the decreased population?”

I licked my lips nervously. This was the crazy part and I hoped he believed me. “He has been forcing the females to bed him, even if they’re mated; especially if they’re mated. Most of the women refused and were killed.” I stopped and let that sink in. It was a heady story almost unbelievable. I wished it weren't true, but it was.

“What about the female's mates? Did they not do anything?” Nathaniel asked.

“Of course they did, at first. But they quickly found out that the punishments for disobeying Gray weren’t worth the fight. He tortured them and killed most and got the females in the end anyway. Some of the women decided to just do as he said, get it over with to save their families, but he didn’t stop at one time with them. Now he has them on a kind of schedule. Marriages are being torn apart and the women that are left are only shells of who they used to be.”

“That’s...that’s sick,” Nathaniel whispered looking disgusted. He was looking down at his hands lost in thought as I studied his reaction. I was actually glad to see him look so pale. It meant he was a good guy. He looked up at me; his eyes held a suspicious shine to them.

“Is that why you left?” He asked.

“Again, yes and no. I definitely didn’t want to stay in the situation, but I left because of my parent’s murder. My father was the Pack Master before Gray. Gray had him and my mother killed so he could take over. There was no fair challenge, but no one was able to stop him. He killed any who opposed.” I sniffed but held my tears back. I missed my parents so much, but I refused to give in to grief. I’d rather have revenge, but so far that hadn’t been possible. One day, I thought. One day Gray would pay.

“Your father was Abel Larson?” Nathaniel asked bringing my attention back to him.

“Yes,” I said, a bit confused. My eyes widened at Nathaniel’s bright grin.

“I knew your father. He was a great man." His smile faded. “I hadn’t spoken to him in years and was sad to hear of his death. You said his mate was also killed? “

“Thank you. He was a great father and yes my mother Eden was killed also. I stayed around for the funeral and had a few loose ends to tie before I left. Gray enforced the rule for females almost immediately. I couldn’t stay and watch and there was nothing I could do. I was depressed from my parent’s death, feeling lost and I couldn’t do a thing for those women except tell them to run. But they didn’t listen. Of course most had families to take care of.

"When the guard came to my home to
collect
me, I fought, and then ran. I changed my name to Riley and kept running. I’ve been gone for over a year but you're the first Pack Master I’ve told
.
I normally tried to stay out of werewolf territories, but finding a job became too hard. I’ve met with a couple of Pack Masters. They always made me leave town.”

“Are they after you?”

“I think so. I’ve noticed a few wolves snooping around some of the places I had been staying. As soon as I smelled them, I left quickly.”

Nodding he said, “You have my pack’s protection while you’re in town. If something happens and you need to leave, let me know. I’m sure we can work something out to keep you safe.”

“I appreciate that,” I said inclining my head in a slight bow. I was in awe really. To receive the pack’s protection was a very significant thing. It meant they trusted you and trust didn’t come easy in our world.

“Thank you for trusting me enough to tell me what was happening in Vancouver.”

“No, thank you. I could tell you would have let me stay, even without knowing everything. You’re a very kind man and I thank you for listening to me.”

He inclined his head then looked away. He stared at nothing for moment, his expression devoid of emotion. Then he shook himself and turned back to me. “I’ve heard of Gray. I’ve heard about some of his cruel doings, but I’ve never heard of anything as horrible as what you just told me. The packs surrounding the Vancouver area have been thinking about taking action against him. I think what you just told me is proof enough that something must be done.”

I nodded my agreement. I couldn’t believe it. Gray was being watch and would soon be taken out. The Vancouver pack deserved peace and soon they would have it. It meant I would be able to go home but I was beginning to realize I would probably never return. Too much had happen there. Everyone I loved most was gone; not only my parents, but my closest friends. I didn’t tell Nathaniel but my three best friends, Jennifer, Katie, and Laura were among those women who were killed for their disobedience. Their mates and children died along with them.

I wipe a lone tear from my cheek and look up at Nathaniel. He was watching me carefully as if he expected me to break down at any moment. I almost snorted. Like that was going to happen.

“I’m going to make some phone calls and get this information to the proper people. You are welcome here as long as you like. I can have a room ready for you within minutes.”

“Oh, um, thank you but I’m not sure if that’s a good idea. I mean this house is for pack members.”

“Yes it is. But it’s also for guests and you're a very special guest, Susan Larson.” He gave me a wry grin when he said my real name. "I also hope you'll consider joining our pack. If you stay in the area, you fall into our laws anyway. We'd be happy to have you."

I inclined my head. "Thank you. When things settle down, I just might do that. I like the area." I said. I also liked Nathaniel. He would be a great Pack Master to have.

“Your parent’s were wonderful people. I hadn’t spoken to them in too long, but I have always called them my friends.”

“How did you meet them?” I asked curiously.

“I met them at a banquet in Texas some fifty years ago," He said with a wistful smile spreading across his face, lighting up his clear blue eyes. “They were wonderful people with personalities that drew me to them. We kept in touch over the years and your father became a mentor for me. He helped me become the leader I am today and I’ll always be grateful.”

“Wow, how old are you?” I asked

He laughed full out with a twinkle in his eye. I couldn’t help but smile back. "You're a feisty one. I bet you get that from your father. He had a temper and your mother was sweet as pie." He chuckled and gave me a wink. "I think I’ll keep my age to myself thank you.”

I shrugged. It wasn’t important. “Thank you again for the offer to stay here Nathaniel, but I would feel more comfortable finding my own place, if you don’t mind. I’m beginning to prefer having a place to myself.”

“No problem, I understand. But if you should change your mind, the offer stands. Now, I know you’re looking for a job. Maybe I can help. The bank where we have our accounts is in need of a teller. Is that something you’d be able to handle?”

“Yes,” I said excitedly. “Thank you so much.”

“You're welcome. I’ll call them in the morning with your recommendation. Now I’ve got some work ahead of me.” He stood and I followed suit. “It was a pleasure meeting you Susan. Come by anytime and if you need anything let me know.”

I thanked him again a started for the door. I stopped and turned back to Nathaniel. “Oh um, should I wait for the big guy?”

Nathaniel looked up and grinned. “The big guy?”

“Um, yeah, the guy who brought me in here? I didn’t know his name so I’ve been calling him the big guy,” I said blushing with slight embarrassment.

Laughing Nathaniel just shook his head. “Oh, he’d love that,” He murmured. “That was Paul Hagan. Paul’s my head security guy. He’ll be out there when you leave.”

“Oh, okay. Thank you,” I said and left.

Chapter 3

He kissed my neck, swirling his tongue over my skin. I tilted my head back in a silent plea for more. I weaved my fingers through his tousled locks, moaning as he nibbled across my collar bone. My nipples tighten in anticipation. “Please,” I moaned. He answered by filling his hands with my breast rubbing his thumb over the tips then pinching them lightly between his fingers. I moaned again and arched pushing my breast closer, wanting his mouth on them. He complied bringing his hot mouth down and began to lap at my nipple. He sucked hard then used his teeth, scraping across the sensitive flesh. I cried out as the pain and pleasure combine, sending heated moisture to my core.

I tried pulling him up so we could finish this, but as usual he stayed at my breast. I was aching with need; twisting and turning against the sweat soaked sheets. As his tongue swirled over my other nipple his hand slid down my belly. I lifted my hips pleading for him to continue. "Yes!" I called out. Just as his fingers found my curls a loud buzzing noise broke the dream apart and my dream man disappeared.