Best Friends

Best Friends

New Species - Book Fifteen

By Laurann Dohner

Best Friends by Laurann Dohner Working together has forged a strong friendship between Melinda York and Mary Muller. So much so, they’re more like sisters. When two men burst into their diner with murder on their minds, Mel doesn’t hesitate to act. She’ll do anything to protect her friend, as well as their New Species customers…especially the one she’s been crushing on for months.

A single act of bravery sparks a series of events that result in Snow getting to know the waitress he’s been obsessively thinking about. He just wants to keep Mel safe. And convince her he’s the male for her.

Mary is the brunt of jokes because of her extreme fear of animals. Phobias aren’t funny. Is she the only one who understands that? When Mel’s actions link them both to New Species, she’d like to hide from those scary men with fangs. That would make her a crappy best friend, though. She’ll try to be brave…right up until the moment she comes face to face with a lion man named Lash. He’ll make her confront her fears in the most unexpected ways possible.

New Species Series

Fury

Slade

Valiant

Justice

Brawn

Wrath

Tiger

Obsidian

Shadow

Moon

True

Darkness

Smiley

Numbers

Best Friends

Best Friends

Copyright © December 2019

Cover Art: Dar Albert

eBook ISBN: 978-1-950597-06-2

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. The unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this copyrighted work is illegal, except for the case of brief quotations in reviews and articles.

Criminal copyright infringement is investigated by the FBI and is punishable by up to 5 years in federal prison and a fine of $250,000.

All characters and events in this book are fictitious. Any resemblance to actual persons living or dead is coincidental.

SNOW

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

LASH

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Chapter Twelve

Epilogue

Snow

Chapter One

“Your day is about to get better, Mel. One of those NSO SUVs just parked outside. Your hunky-scary guy is with them.”

Melinda stopped wiping the counter and peered through the large windows toward the parking lot. Sure enough, a group of New Species headed toward the front doors. She’d expected it at some point, but the days and times varied when they would eat at the diner. Usually they would stop in for lunch if they were having a meeting with the sheriff, but other times, a few weeks could go by before they returned.

She scanned their faces and locked onto one in particular. The sun seemed to make his very pale blond hair nearly glow. The sky blue of his eyes, combined with those sharp, strong cheekbones, made him absurdly gorgeous. His mouth, though, was pure sin. The upper lip gave him kind of an arrogant look but the lower one was fuller, a little pouty. She always felt the urge to nibble on it.

“Thanks, Mary,” she said. “Tell grumpy cook to be prepared for them. I hate when Joel slams stuff around. Remind him that the customers can hear it.”

The other waitress chuckled. “I’m going in there now to do just that. I think Joel’s mood is improving. He actually smiled at me a few minutes ago.”

“It’s about time. Maybe he made up with his wife. He’s only this moody when they have a fight.”

The New Species featured in all of Mel’s fantasies turned his head, saying something to the feline Species beside him. Mel straightened from the counter and turned away, grabbing menus in exchange for the rag. She counted out eight and went to the door to wait.

A beefy blond canine reached the diner first and pulled the glass door open to allow his fellow New Species inside.

Mel smiled. “The right side is completely open. Sit wherever you want.” She passed out menus as they walked past her. Each man flashed her a smile, some gave a word of thanks…but when he came in second to last, he didn’t just grab the corner of the menu, but made sure to brush his fingers against hers as he accepted it.

They locked gazes, and she forgot how to breathe. He always had that effect on her. His eyes were the prettiest color of blue she’d ever seen, so light and gorgeous. Long, thick white eyelashes framed them, a stark contrast to his tan skin.

“Hello.”

His deep voice always made her nipples harden. The tone was kind of gruff but husky at the same time. Sexy.

She glanced down, hoping her bra hid that pesky fact. It would be embarrassing if he saw headlights. Her girls were good, the bra under her thin work shirt hiding the stiff tips. She sucked in air and blew it out. “Hi.”

He passed by, and the last man took a menu as he released the door. Mel spun away and grabbed her tablet that she’d set on the counter. Taking a few deep breaths helped calm her before she followed the New Species across the room. They were shoving three tables together to make a long one. She waited until they were settled before plastering her smile back on.

“What would you like to drink?”

She addressed the one nearest her. She didn’t dare glance at Mr. Blue Eyes again, as she called him. It would make her mind freeze up and her hands shake. She’d experienced that reaction before. She just kept her head down and wrote on the tablet since they knew the drill. Each man answered one after the other, stating their preference of sodas.

She finally looked up. “Do you know what you want to eat or should I give you a few minutes?”

The blond canine at the head of the table answered, “We’d all like steak sandwiches. Rare, please. Everyone wants fries with that.”

She nodded. “You want the steaks bloody. Got it.” She glanced around the table and had to skim past Mr. Blue Eyes. He seemed to be staring at her. “Does everyone like lettuce, mayo, and the steak sauce on theirs? Speak now or forever hold your peace.”

That gained her a few chuckles. A feline spoke. “Can I have tomatoes on mine?”

She wrote it down. “Sure thing. Anyone else?” She glanced around. They all shook their heads, Mr. Blue Eyes still watching her. “Okay. I’ll put in the order and return in a few minutes with your drinks. I’ll tell the cook to add extra fries.”

She fled. There was no other way to describe it.

Mr. Blue Eyes had canine blood. With his sensual mouth and those penetrating eyes, he always made her feel as if she had done something she should blush and apologize over. It might have had something to do with the thoughts running through her head. They tended to revolve around getting him naked, or at least picturing him that way.

Joel looked up from the grill when she entered his kitchen. “Let me guess. Burgers all around?”

“Eight steak sandwiches this time. Keep them bloody.”

He muttered under his breath. “Code violations.”

“They’re good customers and you know it. Just sear those babies, and I won’t tell if you don’t.”

He sighed. “I know. Do you see me turning up the grill? They like ’em almost raw on the inside but a little brown on the exterior.”

“All standard sandwiches but make one with tomatoes. Give them double fries on those plates, too.”

“When don’t I?”

She spun away to fill the drink orders. Mary ended up next to her and glanced at the pad. She grabbed tall glasses and filled them with ice, passing them to Mel. “No shakes this time?”

“Nope.”

“They look kind of serious today.”

Mel glanced around the soda dispenser to peer at the group. They were all leaning forward, one of them talking softly as the others listened intently. The men did seem a bit tense.

She dropped her gaze and placed a drink on a tray. “Don’t sit anyone else in that section, Mary. They probably want privacy.”

“Got it. More tips for me.”

Mel glanced back at the other side of the restaurant. “You wish. Tom over there always leaves a dollar. Macy will give you three bucks. You might do well with the flirty trucker if you tug your shirt down to flash some cleavage and lean low to refill his coffee. Flirting back a little will help, too.” She grinned. “I heard him tell you that he’s single and looking for a good woman.”

Mary elbowed her. “That’s not funny. He’s old enough to be my grandfather.”

“You want an experienced man, right? Well, there you go. Maybe you should start dating him.”

“You’re going straight to hell for saying that,” Mary muttered. “That’s not funny at all.”

“Mama? Is that you?” Mel glanced at her friend and winked. “Sorry. You sounded just like her.”

“Oh, screw you! You’ve told me all about your mother.”

“And that’s why I no longer live in Indiana. I only have to deal with her every other week by phone now. She’ll never come to California. Last time we spoke, she said everyone who lives in this state is a bunch of lunatics, trying to get folks to smoke dope or turn them into sinners.”

Mary passed her another glass filled with ice. “Seriously?”

“Oh yeah. She asks me every time I call home if some man has talked me into making a dirty sex video for some fast cash yet. She’s terrified I’m going to show up on the internet and humiliate our entire family. According to her, that’s what happens to pretty girls out here.”

“Wow. What do you tell her?”

“That she’s making me sad because I haven’t been propositioned by a porno director. Then I tell her I’ve been practicing moaning and fake orgasms, just in case.”

Mary shook her head. “You don’t really say that, do you? You’re kidding, right?”

“I so do. She’s praying for me, though.” Mel beamed as she lifted the tray. “Her church group is, too. I’m so loved.”

Mary chuckled. “That’s just mean.”

“No. It’s called payback for my childhood. Her and her group of friends tormented me growing up. It’s their turn.”

Mel circled Mary and returned to the New Species. They stopped their conversation as she approached, waiting until she passed out the drinks around the tables. “Your sandwiches should be up fast.” She emptied the tray and glanced around. “Just ketchup with the fries or does anyone want me to bring some ranch dressing? BBQ sauce?”

“We’re good,” one of them stated.

She returned to the kitchen and grabbed napkins for their table on the way. In minutes, Joel had their orders ready. Mary showed up to help her carry all the plates on two of their largest serving trays. Mel noticed how nervous her friend looked.

“I’ll keep my body between you and them. Just stare at my back and pretend they aren’t there.”

Mary wrinkled her nose. “It’s just…”

“You’re a big chicken when it comes to New Species. Nobody is going to attack you. Just carry the tray, stay behind me, and I’ll hand out the plates and napkins.”

“What are you talking about?” Joel asked.

“Nothing. Girl talk.”

Mel went out first, with Mary on her heels. She passed out the plates of food, making sure the feline New Species got his tomatoes. Mary fled quickly when she was done, taking away the empty trays. “Anything else?” Mel glanced at their barely touched drinks.

“This is perfect. Thank you.” The blond canine who seemed to be in charge smiled but she got the impression he didn’t want her hanging around.

Message received. She spun away and headed toward the front counter. There was always silverware to wrap.

She crouched down behind the counter to get a pile of clean cloth napkins. Motion caught her eye as someone on the sidewalk approached the front doors. She lifted a few inches to get a better look. It was two men.

They both gripped handguns close to their stomachs.

Mel froze, a jolt of fear shooting through her.

She was tempted to jump up and rush the doors to try to lock them out but instantly realized she’d never make it in time. Even if she did, they’d just shoot the lock open, or worse, open fire through the glass. It was better to call for help.

She dropped the napkin and fell to her hands and knees, crawling toward the register and keeping her head low. They wouldn’t know she was there unless they’d glimpsed her head pop up for that second, or if they leaned over the counter.

She made it to the register and snatched the phone under the shelf. She dialed 9-1-1 and placed it to her ear.

The bell rang on the front door, telling her they were inside the diner.

“Hands up!” one of the men yelled.

It took a few seconds for the call to connect, and then it rang. She bit her lip, heart pounding. It wasn’t the first robbery she’d experienced. She’d survived two while living in Indiana, working for a place right off a main highway. Being right under the register was a bad place to be but necessary.

The phone rang again.

Answer, she silently pleaded.

“Who wants to get shot first? Move and you’re asking for it,” a second voice threatened. “I knew if we waited long enough, you bastards would show. You walk around in clothes pretending to be men—but you’re fucking animals.”

They weren’t interested in money from the diner. They were after the New Species.

The fifth ring worked, and a man’s voice came on the line. “Nine-one-one. What is your emergency?”

Mel found herself in a pickle. The men would hear her if she spoke, even whispering. She placed the phone on the floor and prayed the operator would be able to listen to the voices of the gunmen

“Don’t move,” the first guy with the high-pitched voice shouted. “Not a fucking muscle. I’ll blow your damn heads off.”

“We’re going to do it anyway…but who wants to be first?” The second man had a colder, calmer tone. It made Mel shudder.

Mel’s hands shook as she eased her fingers into the side pocket of her apron and wrapped them around the set of keys she kept there. She was terrified they’d jingle. She was also furious. Those men planned to shoot Mr. Blue Eyes.

She looked down and momentarily panicked when her mind blanked. It took a second to remember which key fit the cabinet to her left. She inserted it and turned the lock. It made a soft click but she hoped they couldn’t hear it when the second man started to list his issues with New Species. He’d embarked on a rant about how they were ruining the country, and how he’d become a hero for taking some of them off the face of the Earth.

Crazy bastard. She set the keys on the shelf and grabbed what was inside the cabinet. Her heart pounded a mile a minute. She was facing one of those life-changing moments that no one should ever have to.

Can I really do it? I’m going to die.

A gun went off on the other side of the counter—and time ran out.

Mel stopped thinking and just reacted.

She rose up to level Joel’s old shotgun at the first shooter her gaze locked onto, adjusting her arm in a jerky motion. She braced her legs and fired.

The armed man had been gripping his gun with both hands. The shotgun blast hit him in the side of his chest in the rib area. The impact threw him onto one of the empty tables. He rolled off it and hit the floor, the table crashing with him.

Mel still stumbled back from the kick of the heavy weapon but the first masked man spun her way. She pumped the old shotgun even as he fired at her.

It felt as if someone punched her upper arm near her shoulder, hard, but she managed to stay upright. She aimed the barrel at him just the way her papa had taught her and fired again. The shot nailed him mid chest since he’d turned her way. The impact flung him backward and he landed on the floor.

New Species moved fast, going after the two downed men. They tore the handguns away, pinning both men in place.

Shock held Mel frozen.

She’d just shot two men.

They weren’t hay bales piled in a stack with red paint mimicking a body outline.

Motion out of the corner of her eye had her shifting her gaze from the pile of bodies on the floor to something coming right at her. It was Mr. Blue Eyes. He’d jumped on top of the tables they’d combined, stomping right on plates and knocking over glasses. He leapt toward her when he reached the end.

He cleared the top of the counter and landed next to her. She turned her head to stare up at him as he took the shotgun from her hands. He flung it to the floor.

She knew she should say something but her mind refused to work. No words formed.

He darted a quick look down her body. “You’ve been shot.”

It took her a second to let his words sink in. She lowered her chin and glanced toward her shoulder. Bright red stained her white T-shirt near the side of her upper arm. The blood was dripping downward along her bared skin.

“Mel!” Mary yelled. “Oh my God!”

Mel glanced over and noticed Mary stood at least ten feet away, clutching her apron in a death grip. Her friend looked pale and terrified.

Mary took a step closer, glancing at the big man next to Mel before backing up. It was clear she was too afraid to come any closer.

Mel didn’t feel pain. It should hurt, right? Her arm just kind of throbbed as if it suddenly had its own heartbeat.

Mr. Blue Eyes put his hands on her waist. They were large, and she could feel the warmth of them through her thin work T-shirt. He turned her toward him more, and it made her stumble since she seemed suddenly unable to control her legs.

Mr. Blue Eyes looked at something over her shoulder. “Don’t. Stay back.” He looked down at Mel again and his grip tightened. “It’s going to be okay.”

I’m shot. I shot people. Real people. Not pesky vermin.

Mel was afraid to turn her head to see if either of the men still lived. She just stared deeply into Mr. Blue Eyes’ gaze. He held onto her. It was probably the only thing that kept her upright because she felt as if she might collapse as reality slowly sank in.

I shot people. Real people.

“How is she, Snow?” They were growled words from the other side of the room.

Mr. Blue Eyes didn’t look away from her. “She needs a doctor.”

Snow. That’s his name. She’d wondered for a long time but it had seemed rude to flat-out ask since it was a rule around town to treat visiting New Species as if they were royalty. Sheriff Cooper was known for being a crusty old bastard who was fond of the New Species, and he let everyone know not to mess with them in any way. That included asking questions. He said they got enough of that from the reporters that sometimes showed up in town.

Plus, she didn’t want Snow to guess that she had a massive crush on him.

“I’m in communication with Reservation. Medical is being put on alert.” That deep voice came from one of the New Species across the room.

“How is Wind?”

Mel really did love Snow’s voice, and she once again experienced that tingling sensation from her nipples. He still had that effect on her despite being struck by a bullet.

“The shot must have missed Wind’s heart but he’s in a lot of pain. Jinx has pressure on the wound to slow the bleeding. The helicopter isn’t at Reservation. We’re doing a scoop and run. I’m taking Wind with Jinx now. The rest of you will remain here until the backup teams arrive,” one of the New Species ordered. “The two gunmen are alive, but I don’t think one of them will ma—”

“Enough,” Snow snapped. “She doesn’t need to hear that.” He leaned in closer. “Melinda, you’re very pale. I’m going to lift you, and we’re going with them.”

Mel was being taken to Reservation. That stunned her.

But I love the way he says my name. I’ll go anywhere with him.

“You’re not taking her!” Mary’s voice sounded panicked and near hysterical.

“We have an excellent medical facility. Your human hospital is too far away. She is coming with me,” Snow firmly stated.

Snow released her waist and she swayed, but he bent and locked one of his arms behind her knees, while wrapping the other around her back. He hoisted her up against his chest. The fast motion made her dizzy, And Mel closed her eyes.

“Hang on, Melinda,” he rasped. “You did a brave deed. Those males would have shot more of us. We couldn’t reach our ankle holsters with them watching our every move.”

She hadn’t known they had guns. That surprised her.

He jogged outside with her, and the motion made her feel sick to her stomach. It would be just her luck if she puked on the guy she imagined naked all the time.

She sealed her lips and tried to breathe through her nose. It did distract her from the increased throbbing in her arm, and the fact that blood still dripped from the wound.

Chapter Two

Mel heard sirens in the distance. The sheriff or one of his deputies must be on their way. Maybe even all of them. It wasn’t like shootings happened in their small town every day.

“Throw your good arm around my neck,” Snow ordered, slowing down.

It took her a second to comply, since that arm had gotten smashed between his big chest and her body. Her fingers brushed his silky hair, and she felt his firm back along her forearm. She dug her fingers into muscle on his shoulder.

He adjusted his arm under her waist as she turned her head, watching him yank open a door on the black NSO SUV. He slid into the front passenger seat and lifted her body until she had to release his shoulder to sit on his lap. He turned her a little, pressing her spine against his chest, then slammed the door closed.

The driver’s-side door was thrown open and the blond canine in charge got behind the wheel. He looked furious and seriously scary with his mouth open, showing fangs. He didn’t glare at her, though. He fixed his full attention on Snow.

“You shouldn’t bring her. Their medical facilities can tend to her better.”

“No,” Snow growled. “She goes with us, Timber.”

After a moment, Timber nodded.

Doors opened in the back and the SUV rocked a bit. A few of the New Species gently placed the bleeding one across the bench seat, and a black-haired feline climbed in, too. Mel glanced back, watching. She saw flashing lights as the sirens grew louder. That made the situation more real. She faced forward, still feeling like she could puke.

“Careful,” someone warned from the backseat. “Easy. Don’t jostle Wind too much. Jinx, do you got him?”

“Yes. Stay with me, Wind. You’re too damn annoying to die. Remember that.”

“I have females to impress,” Wind groaned.

“That’s right,” Jinx agreed. “Every female is going to want to coddle you and kiss your boo-boo.”

The back doors slammed closed and the vehicle engine roared to life. Snow tensed and adjusted his hold on Mel again. He wrapped one of his arms around her, right under her breasts, and braced his feet against the floorboards. His other hand gripped the center divider.

“Go, Timber,” Jinx demanded from the back. “I’ve got Wind pinned against the seat and I’m keeping pressure on his wound.”

Mel wondered for the need to pin him down even as Timber gripped the steering wheel tight with one hand and punched the gas after throwing the SUV into drive.

The tires squealed in protest, and it made Mel grateful that Snow held her tight, since the motion threw her backward into him. Pain lanced down her arm and she almost blacked out.

She wished she had lost consciousness when she looked out the windshield. Timber did a great impression of being a race car driver. He must have shoved his foot all the way down on the gas and didn’t seem inclined to ease off any.

He swerved around a slower-moving car, and then took a turn so fast, she closed her eyes. The motion of being thrown against the door despite Snow holding her jarred her enough to hurt like hell. The vehicle straightened and she opened her eyes.

It was a mistake.

Timber leaned forward on the straightaway and messed with the dash. She hoped he wasn’t going to turn on music.

Her mouth opened in horror as the SUV gained ground on a truck ahead of them. The urge to scream choked her; it seemed as if the canine driver planned to ram right into the back of the vehicle.

But he swerved, barely missing the blue truck at the last second. It was lucky there wasn’t any oncoming traffic on the two-lane highway. He went back to the right side of the road after they’d cleared the truck.

A soft ringing started, and she though it must be in her ears. But a voice came on next.

“Talk to me. Situation?”

That helped clue her in that they were using a Bluetooth-synced phone.

Snow twisted his body a little in the seat and turned his head. “Wind is conscious but bleeding heavily. Jinx is applying pressure to slow the bleeding. We also have a human female who’s been shot in the upper arm. She’s losing some blood but it’s not bad.”

She dared to glance at her arm. It was really bloody. She wondered what his definition of “bad” was. It looked pretty bad to her.

“We’re coming in hot,” Timber warned. “Make sure those gates are wide open and nothing gets in our way to Medical. Are they prepared?”

“Yes,” the person on the phone answered. “We’re ready for you. Old Doc Harris and Ted are on standby. Doc Alli is on her way in.”

Mel opened her mouth to scream but terror kept her silent when Timber took a turn and crossed into the oncoming traffic lane. It was a good thing he did, since they seemed to skid a bit from how fast they were traveling. She regretted not being buckled into a seat belt.

They made it to another long straightaway, and she saw a line of dark NSO SUVs coming toward them from the other lane. She counted six vehicles. They were moving fast and didn’t slow as they passed.

She turned her head, peering into the side mirror. Five kept going, but one hit the brakes. White smoke rose from the tires of the SUV as it skidded to a halt. The vehicle turned around on the road and came after them.

“We’re almost there,” Snow stated.

“We have an eye on you.” The man on the phone paused. “Slow for that last turn. There’s a civilian car in front of you heading in this direction.”

“Understood.” Timber didn’t slow, though.

The trees were thick on both sides of the road, and she wondered how anyone could see their vehicle from Reservation unless they had people in the woods as lookouts, or possibly cameras.

A big turn came up. Timber finally hit the brakes by punching down on them for a split second. It threw Mel forward but Snow didn’t let her slam into the dash. It hurt a lot, though, since the fast motion wrenched her left arm. She closed her eyes and, for once, did what her mama always told her to do. She prayed.

Please don’t let us wreck. I’ll be good. I’ll call my folks more often. I’ll stop taunting my mama no matter how much she annoys or pisses me off.

She was pressed against the door again when they took the turn too fast. Don’t look. Just don’t! She breathed instead, and focused on Snow’s arm around her ribs.

What does that name mean to him?

Really? I’m going to wonder about that now? I’m shot!

Shit. Mama and Papa are going to order me to come back home. They’ll probably drive their pickup all the way here to hog tie me and force me back if I don’t wanna go.

No. No. No.

“We’re at the gates,” Snow announced.

Mel opened her eyes. She’d never seen Reservation before. Nobody in town ventured there out of respect for the New Species and fear of Sheriff Cooper. Big walls were all she could see on the right and left of the road, disappearing into the tall trees.

Two massive gates were wide open, and at least a few dozen armed men wearing riot gear stood on top of the walls and beside the road next to the gates. It was a small army. They drove right past them, and then through a second set of open gates.

The land next to the road had been cleared of trees for a ways. A building stood to the right, but they breezed by that and kept going. Another building appeared after a turn in the road. That one Timber slowed for. Five people waited outside by the front doors, and they had two wheeled gurneys. She didn’t see any hospital signs. There wasn’t even a name on the building.

Timber applied the brakes and bile rose in Mel’s throat as Snow’s arm dug into her chest to keep her from slamming into the windshield like a bug. She managed to choke it down, not wanting to puke on him. That would be humiliating.

Timber stopped the SUV and shut off the engine. He threw open the driver’s door. “Wind’s in the backseat,” he yelled.

“Hang on,” Snow rasped next to her ear. “Let them get the male first. He’s worse.”

Mel managed to nod. She couldn’t remember if she’d spoken at all since they’d left the diner. Her mind was still blank.

I was shot. I think I’m in shock…

Snow worried about the female. Melinda remained still in his arms but her rigid body on his lap assured him that she hadn’t lost consciousness.

A male nurse jerked open the passenger door, prepared to take the female from him.

He growled low in warning, and the male stepped back. Snow adjusted his hold on Melinda and slid out with her in his arms. He ignored the gurney and carried her inside the building.

Chimes hurried toward him from the left. “Bring her this way.”

He followed the Species female into one of the exam rooms and lay the human on the medical bed. He looked at Chimes. “Where is Doc Harris or Ted?”

“With Wind. He’s more critical.”

It made sense, but he hated how pale Melinda looked. Snow took her hand on the side that wasn’t injured and gripped it. Chimes moved to the other side of the bed and gently tugged at Melinda’s T-shirt to inspect the wound. “Go. I have this.”

A panicked look crossed Melinda’s features, and she clung to his hand. Her eyes widened, and he scented her fear.

He made a simple decision. “I’ll stay with her.”

“Fine.” Chimes began to clean the skin around the injury.

Melinda cried out when Chimes probed at the wound. Her entire body jerked, and Snow bit back a snarl. He leaned forward to partially press his chest over hers to keep her in place, resting his free hand on the top of her head. Melinda had been tagged on the exterior meaty part of her arm, just under the shoulder. The wound bled a lot but it didn’t look as if it were something life threatening.

He stared at her face. She glanced around wildly, seeming panicked.

“Look at me,” he ordered.

She gazed at him as if he were a lifeline. He liked her eyes. They were a soft shade of brown with a lot of gold flecks inside the irises. He hadn’t seen too many humans who had that trait. They seemed suspiciously wet but she didn’t cry. He wouldn’t have blamed her if she had.

“Are you allergic to any medications?” Chimes poured water over the wound to clear the blood.

Melinda’s tongue darted out as she licked her lips. She didn’t say anything but shook her head.

“No, she’s not,” he answered for her.

“I’m not blind.” Chimes smiled. “You’re being brave, female. I heard you shot bad humans intent on killing our males. We’ll take good care of you. You are also lucky. It looks as if you’re only missing some flesh, but Doc Alli will probably order an X-ray to make sure more damage wasn’t done. You will need stitches.”

“Where is Doc Alli?” It pissed Snow off that she wasn’t already there. Melinda had put her life at risk to save Species and she deserved excellent medical care, as if she were one of them.

“She was at home when we got the call but she’s on her way. She should be here at any second. It takes time even with her speeding.”

The answer from Chimes settled Snow a bit, until Melinda flinched. “Give her something for the pain.” It bothered him, knowing she suffered.

“I can’t. I’m not trained for that yet. Destiny could, but he was sent to Homeland when Doc Alli came. Obsidian still won’t allow her to work with that male. I only have Species dosages down. I wouldn’t want to accidently give her too much. I like being a nurse.”

Melinda gasped. He wasn’t sure if it was from something Chimes had said or done. He pressed tighter against her body. “It’s going to be okay. Just breathe in and out.”

“I am.”

He could feel every time she inhaled and exhaled, since he was almost on top of her in case she tried to wiggle away from Chimes tending to her bleeding arm. “You’re being very brave,” he rushed to assure her.

Tears flooded her eyes. “I was scared. I didn’t know you had guns or I would have shouted to you about those men. I saw them before they came in. I thought they were going to rob us. I didn’t know they wanted you.”

He nodded. “You shot those males, and that was good. Why did you have a weapon?”

“Joel keeps his shotgun locked up near the register. I have a key for it, since I know how to shoot. He made me shoot cans to prove I wasn’t bullshitting. I hit every one without missing after the first two shots. And that thing is old; I’d never fired one like it before.”

“Were you in the human military?” She didn’t look like it to him. Melinda had a soft, rounded body. Not one that was overly fit, like the bodies of most of the female military he’d seen.

“No.” She stiffened, gasping out. “Ouch.”

“Sorry, I have to dig around a bit to make sure the bullet didn’t splinter. It seems it just nicked you,” Chimes muttered. “I’m trying to see if it hit bone.”

“I nick my legs while shaving. I’ve never bled this much.” Melinda arched her back, pressing her breasts against his chest.

Snow hated noticing how good those soft mounds felt against him. The female was in pain. Her breathing rapidly increased, and he needed to attempt to calm her. “She means the bullet didn’t pierce a lot of flesh.” Snow hoped, anyway. “For Species, that’s just a small wound.”

“You all seem to have a really messed-up understanding of not much and not too bad.”

He grinned. “I like the way you talk.”

“I haven’t rid myself of my accent completely yet. It comes out when I’m stressed.” She eased her grip on his hand but then clenched her fingers tight. “Dang it. That hurts!”

“You’re doing really well. I’m impressed.” He meant it. Some humans would scream and cry.

“I’ve got a good tolerance for pain. Farm girl here. I got hurt a lot growing up.”

He stroked her light brown hair with his fingers, hoping it would help. He liked it when someone played with his. “Where are you from? I haven’t heard someone talk the way you do before.”

“A tiny town in Indiana. Home of cows, chickens, and pigs, mostly.” She arched her back again and her legs moved restlessly.

He broke eye contact with her to glance over his shoulder. She’d bent her knee upward and kicked a little at the bed with that foot. He looked back at her. “Is that helping?”

“I’m not shouting cuss words, am I?”

“No. Do you want to?”

“I’m here! Move!”

Snow felt relief when Doc Alli entered. She had gloved up and wore colorful cartoon-print scrubs. She ignored him and focused on Melinda. Chimes stepped to the side to give the doctor room to work.

“You were shot with a handgun, correct? I’m Dr. Allison. What’s your name?”

“Mel. Um, Melinda York.” She groaned. “It looked like a .38 but I’m not real good about knowing that stuff, and it’s kind of a blur. It happened too fast. It hurts.”

Doc Alli pulled back and frowned at Chimes. “Why hasn’t someone given her pain meds yet?”

“Doc Ted is with Wind. Doc Harris is waiting for the bad humans to arrive. We just got an update that Homeland is sending us more medical help.”

“Shit. Okay.” Doc Alli leaned in close. “Are you allergic to any medicines?”

“No, she’s not.” Snow met Doc Alli’s stare.

“Is she taking any medications? Been drinking? Doing drugs?”

“Nope, nope, and nope.” Mel paused. “Birth control pills. I almost forgot that.” She rattled off what she took.

Doc Alli nodded. “I’m on it.” She spun away and returned quickly with a syringe. “You’re going to feel a little pinch in a second.”

“It’s got to be nothing compared to feeling like my arm is being torn apart by a hungry crow.”

Snow smothered a grin and stroked Melinda’s hair. “Do crows tear limbs apart often?”

“Well, no, but they might if you’re bleeding and think you won’t fight back.” She paused when she was given the shot, her face scrunching up slightly. “They’re scavengers. That was nice. It didn’t hurt much.”

“I’m happy to hear that.” Doc Alli moved away to dispose of the syringe. “It will quickly take effect.”

“Nighty-night time?”

Snow’s amusement at the way Melinda spoke grew.

“No. You’ll be feeling good though.” Doc Alli came back to the bed.

The female under him relaxed after a few minutes and smiled. “Oh, this is good.”

“What is?” Snow eased some of his weight off her chest as her body became limp.

“The drugs.” Mel smiled. “I can’t feel my toes.” She paused. “They are still there, right?”

He nodded. “I promise you that they are.” He turned his head to address Doc Alli. “Will she be alright?”

“Yes. She was grazed. She’s going to have a scar but I got the bleeding stopped. I’m about to put in stitches after I finish cleaning the wound. She got lucky. The bullet missed the bone. I don’t even see a crease on it.”

Snow gazed into Mel’s eyes. He wanted to keep her distracted and focused on him to prevent her from seeing what was about to happen next. He never enjoyed looking at sharp needles, especially if it involved his skin being sewn together. “How long have you lived in town?”

“Just over a year.” She smiled. “I love your eyes. The color is amazing. They remind me of my favorite kind of summer day. I call you Mr. Blue Eyes. I didn’t know your name.”

He grinned. “Thank you. Your eyes are quite pretty, too.”

“Why did you pick your name?”

He hesitated. “My hair is white and someone said it reminded them of freshly fallen snow. I liked that.”

She smiled at back.

“Melinda?” Doc Alli spoke. “I’m going to give you antibiotics. It can nullify the effectiveness of your birth control pills. Your partner will need to use condoms for at least a month, okay?”

Mel snorted. “Partner? Have you met the guys in town? I dated one of the deputies for a few weeks right after I moved here. He was hot, but good in bed he was not. It was sad. I thought it might be a fluke, but nope. Three strikes and I was done with Deputy Dud. Dang cable television.”

Snow couldn’t hold back. He laughed. “He watched television while sharing sex with you? That is sad.”

She shook her head, and her big brown eyes locked onto him. “No. It’s just a theory I have.”

He was intrigued. “Tell me this theory of yours.”

“I’m from a small town. We don’t have cable, and what television signals we do get are crappy. Nobody could afford to have those fancy channels anyway, even if they did run the lines that far out. And nobody trusts satellites. They think the government is using them to spy on folks.” She licked her lips. “The boys have nothing to do besides chores and messing around. They get really good at sex, otherwise word spreads fast that they’re bad in bed.” She sighed. “It isn’t worth getting naked if you know it’s going to be disappointing. Men here have cable. Instead of trying to get better at seducing women themselves, they’re all sitting on their backsides, watching people have fake sex, where the women act like they enjoy stuff that actually frustrates and irritates us in real life.”

Snow clenched his teeth and pressed his lips together to prevent the laughter from escaping. Doc Alli and Chimes didn’t hold back, though. He nodded. “I like that theory.”

“It’s true. Do you have cable?” Melinda peered at him intently.

“No,” he lied. He didn’t feel guilty about it, either.

She smiled. “I hoped you didn’t. That would have bummed me out.”

“Okay,” Doc Alli cut in. “You might want to go now, Snow. Our friend here is a lightweight with pain meds.”

He didn’t want to leave her. “I’m not going anywhere. I brought her in, and I’m staying by her side.”

“You carried me.” Mel released his hand and gripped his arm, rubbing it. “You’re really strong. I like your muscles. You should wear tank tops more often. I loved the gray one you wore last time I saw you. Jeans look really good on you, too. I kind of hate your uniform. It hides your amazing butt since the jacket hangs low.”

“You think my ass is amazing?” He felt pleased.

“You have tons of muscles there, too. It’s the best one I’ve ever seen. I bet it feel really nice to touch.”

“Okay. That’s it.” Doc Alli slapped Snow’s shoulder with the back of her gloved hand. “Out. Now.”

“It’s just getting interesting,” he protested, grinning at her. “She seems to like me.”

Doc Alli shot him a disgusted but amused look. “Fine. I’ll have Chimes dose you later, and we can let Melinda stand next to your bedside as you’re spouting things while you’re high as a kite.”

“Come on, Amazing Ass.” Chimes gripped the back of his belt and yanked hard. “Go out in the waiting area. Otherwise, you’ll be Bruised Ass when I toss you on it. I’m not letting go until you’re at least fifty feet from the other side of the door.”

He knew the female meant it; she’d literally drag him out. He winked at Mel. “I’ll be close by.”

“Don’t go!” She reached out toward him.

He was tempted to stay, but Chimes tugged hard enough to make him flinch. Species females didn’t bluff.

Chapter Three

“I have to quit my job.” Mel put a hand over her face since her other arm was in a sling. The nice doctor had asked her to wear it for a few days to prevent her from tearing the stitches. She was supposed to keep her upper arm immobile.

Mary sat on the couch next to her. “How bad can it be?”

“I was like a love-sick calf bawling for its mama. I’m pretty sure I screamed ‘come back, Mr. Blue Eyes. I need you.’”

Mary rubbed her leg in sympathy. “That’s not too bad.”

“That was after I told him he had a nice butt. It’s kind of foggy, but I’m sure I said something along those lines. They gave me the good drugs. I can’t face him, Mary. He comes into the diner for lunch when they’re in town. I have to get a different job.”

“I am not letting you quit the diner.”

“Don’t you understand how embarrassed I am?”

“You were dopey. I broke my wrist years ago and flashed my ass at the nurses when my dad came to take me home. I wasn’t fit to drive, and my car wasn’t there anyway. Nobody gave me any shit about it.”

Mel finally looked at her friend. “Everyone flashes their butts in a hospital gown. They’re designed to do that. Those ties in the back to keep it together are a joke.”

“I purposely mooned the nurses on my way out. I don’t want to talk about why, though.”

“I’m sharing my humiliation with you. Come on. That’s what friends do. I’ll be in a better mood if it’s funny. Spill.”

“Fine.” Mary crossed her arms over her chest, leaning back. “I was messing around with Kenny Brian and thought it would be hot to have sex in the back of his truck bed. Here’s a tip—don’t do it doggy style when you’re facing the end of the truck and the tailgate is down. He got a bit excited, and was going at me with, um…enthusiasm. I fell over the edge and hit the ground. There went the wrist.”

“Ouch.” Mel winced. “That’s not funny at all. It sounds painful. You’d have thought he’d have yanked you back.”

“He went with me! I tried to catch us both. I think it was our combined weight that caused the break. It happened really fast.”

“That’s pretty horrible.”

“Kenny agreed. He complained the entire time while he drove me to the hospital because our fun ended before he got off, like I was a wimp for calling a halt. I told him my wrist was broken, but he thought I was being a drama queen. He dropped me off at the ER and left.”

“What a scum bucket!”

“That’s why I’m not with him anymore. Then those nurses started in on me. They thought they were a riot, telling dumb blonde jokes. Like I was in a mood to put up with that crap. I’ve gotten it my entire life.”

“What mean heifers. You’re a smart blonde.”

“Thank you. See why I was mad? I would have told them to kiss my ass, but my dad was in a mood already. He hates bad language. Plus, he knew how it happened before he got to me. I’m sure it was one of those nurses who ratted me out. So much for patient confidentiality. I had worked out a good lie, too. It involved hiking and falling on a rock. Instead, he stormed in and said I was grounded for life. He even gave me a lecture about how Kenny was no good and I was forbidden to see him again.”

“How old were you?”

“Nineteen, but I still lived at home then.”

“Parents suck at times but he was right about Kenny.”

Mary laughed. “Yes. He was.” She grew serious. “Did the sheriff or a deputy come over yet? They said they were going to need a statement from you.”

“No. I was just dropped off an hour ago, and one of them let me borrow his cell phone to call you before they left. Thanks for coming.”

“Of course. The diner’s closed until it’s all cleaned up and the broken tables are replaced. Joel said a few days off would do us good.”

“Doctor Alli told me both of those gunmen are still alive.”

“The New Species took them out of the diner breathing, but that one with the chest wound?” Mary wrinkled her nose. “It looked bad. Don’t be upset if he doesn’t make it. They’re dirtbags for trying to murder people. Speaking of being shot, is the New Species going to live?”

“I’d heard that Wind made it through surgery and was doing well before two task force members showed up to drive me home.”

“Were they any New Species that come into the diner?”

“They were humans. They flew in from Homeland with more doctors and to ask me questions.”

“What did they want to know?”

“I was shown pictures of the men I shot, and asked if I had ever seen them before. I hadn’t…and I’ve met almost everybody in town.”

“It’s impossible not to. This place isn’t that big, and we only have one decent grocery store.” Mary pulled a face. “That gas station minimart near the freeway is way overpriced. They screw the tourists.”

“I don’t shop there, either.” Mel sighed. “Anyway, I’m just glad I’m not going to jail. Those task force guys I spoke with said I wasn’t in any trouble.”

“You’re not, Mel. The New Species were very clear that you acted in self-defense and saved their lives. Sheriff Cooper wasn’t even mad that Joel keeps a loaded shotgun at the diner. Hell, he patted him on the back. Where did you learn to shoot like that, anyway?”

“You’ve never been on a working farm, have you?”

“No. I’m a city girl. I mean, our town isn’t real big but I couldn’t milk a cow. I’d probably grab a bull’s balls by mistake. I don’t even know how to tell them apart.”

“That would end badly.” Mel laughed, imaging that scenario. But her humor was short-lived. “Two words for you: barn vermin. We got infestations if we didn’t get rid of them. It was good practice.”

“What are barn vermin?” Mary looked confounded.

“Rats, racoons, and snakes, mostly. You sure don’t want them around. Some are downright mean. Though, I did miss some of them on purpose because the noise chased them off.”

Mary shuddered.

Mel chuckled. “See why I left my hometown? Not to mention, we had one bar there, and it doubled as a gas station and minimart. The owners only served food on the weekends, so it was where you went if you didn’t feel like cooking or wanted to take someone on a date. Everything else was over half an hour away. It wasn’t bad to travel during good weather, but in the winter, we were stuck. The roads could get too bad.”

“I thought you mostly left because of your mother.”

“Her too. Mama and her friends made my life a living nightmare. But the last straw was Bobby Roy.”

“Who’s that?”

“The fifty-two-year-old widower Mama kept throwing at me, but he looked way older than that. He’d never had kids with his dearly departed wife, and he owned a nice spread next to ours. Mama told me he drank a lot, meaning he wouldn’t live to a ripe old age. She had her heart set on adding his land to ours when he left me everything as his widow.”

Mary’s jaw dropped. “Are you serious?”

“Yeah. He had a sweating problem, too. Probably from all the booze trying to escape his bloated body. I told her I wasn’t going to sleep with a man just so she could have a nicer fishing spot. She said I was sleeping with pond scum anyway, and I might as well get something out of it besides a bad reputation.”

“She sounds really harsh. I’ve known you for a year, and you’ve only dated one guy in that time. A bad reputation implies you sleep around, which you don’t.”

“Well, I was with Jimmy for five years, but two of those he was in the service after we graduated. I didn’t get to see him unless he was on leave. We were high school sweethearts. I wasn’t the cheating kind, but he turned out to be. Some girl showed up out of the blue looking for him. They’d broken up, and she wanted him back. Imagine how surprised we both were. She didn’t know he’d asked me to marry him. We were waiting until he was home, after he got out of the service. Meanwhile, he’d been living with her where he was stationed. Then I was with Buck, but he was more fun than serious.”

“You told me about Buck. He was the one who loved to race cars, right? Cute but kind of stupid? He had a good sense of humor?”

“Yeah. I didn’t want to become a widow since, he wasn’t very good at not wrecking cars, so I kept telling him no when he talked about marriage.”

“He met some girl and married her when he was in Texas, if I recall.”

“That would be him.” Mel shrugged. “Better her than me.”

“How long were you with him?”

“Two years, on and off.”

“Anyone else back there?”

Mel shook her head.

“And that earned you a bad reputation in your town? You’re twenty-five and have only had a total of two boyfriends. That’s not slutty at all.”

“They were kind of bad boys. Jimmy’s old man is the town drunk. Buck’s mama is a wandering spirit, which is a nice way to say she sleeps around. She’d hook up with any man who offered to take her away from there, then come home to her husband after she got dumped. He always let her back in the door, and then she’d take off again with someone else. It was like an endless cycle of misery. It’s probably still going on.”

“That made them bad boys?”

“Small town. The sins of the parents and all that. Nobody lets them forget who their folks are, and it’s kind of implied any woman willing to hook up with them is asking for trouble. Plus, I stopped going to church.”

“Is that a crime?”

“It is with my mama being who she is. She’s really involved, but I refused to go after Preacher Todd started hitting on me. I told her, but she insisted I was only saying it to get back at him for making me an example during one of his sermons about sinning. And he really did that as payback over me turning him down flat. Mama believed him over me, saying it was wishful thinking that a man of God would want me.”

Mary shook her head. “Your mother is a bitch, and Preacher Todd sounds like a first-class prick.”

“That’s why we’re friends, Mary.” Mel grinned. “And I agree. Then my mama started inviting Bobby Roy to dinner as my date and started laying on the guilt trips about how much easier her life would be if I married him. She still does every time I talk to her. She wants me to come home and marry him. See why I hate talking to her on the phone? Why I like to torment her about being open to cameras and some guy nicknamed Big Boner nailing me? Payback.”

“Are you going to tell your parents what happened? You might want to. Sheriff Cooper had everyone promise not to tell anyone what happened, to avoid a media circus coming to town, but whatever cover story they come up with might not work. Someone still might blab. New Species were attacked. It could make the news.”

“Nope. I’m going to lie if that happens, and tell my folks that there’s another woman with my name living here. They think this is some huge city, so as far as they’re concerned, it’s possible.”

Mary laughed. “Nobody would buy that.”

“Don’t pop my bubble of hope, Mary. I’m already having a bad day. I told Snow he had a nice butt and made a fool of myself. He’s got to think the worst of me. Did I mention I admitted I’m on the pill, and that I slept with Deputy Dud?”

“You didn’t!”

“Oh yeah. I shared my cable theory with him, too.”

Mary cringed. “Shit.”

“I asked him if he had cable.”

“No, you didn’t!”

“So guilty. See? Do you think Mr. Adams is hiring? Once my arm is out of the sling, I could work on a ranch. I never wanted to shovel crap again but at least I have zero chance of running into Snow there.”

“I’d miss you at the diner. No. You’re not quitting. Don’t look so depressed, Mel. This’ll work out. Snow probably forgot all about you already.”

“He’s the man of my dreams, and you think saying that is going to cheer me up?”

“I was grasping at straws. Work with me.”

“Fine. It’s possible in some alternative universe that he’ll get selective memory loss of things I wish I hadn’t said to him. That’s realistic.” Mel snorted.

“You did save his life. I bet that overshadows everything else. You endured trauma. Everyone knows people blurt out things they don’t mean under a lot of stress.”

“Temporary insanity?” Mel smiled. “I could plead that.”

Mary grinned back. “He does have a nice ass.”

“Tina? Is that you?”

“Bitch!” Mary slapped her thigh. “Don’t even joke by saying her name. My boyfriend was still living with me when that slut nailed him on my couch. She’s a horrible person. I just noticed your guy’s backside. Big difference. I don’t plan to touch it.”

“Ouch! You just hit someone who got shot.”

“Sorry. That was a low blow, though.”

“I’m trying to cheer myself up. It’s become a habit to turn snarky after growing up in my house. I’m sorry, too.”

Mary stood. “You must be hungry. I’m going to fix you something to eat. It’s past dinner time. What do you want?”

“How about a grilled cheese with ham?”

“Do you have the makings? Otherwise, I have to run home.”

“I do.”

Mary shook her head. “I would have cooked you anything you asked for. You’re so easy. Tina, is that you?”

“It doesn’t have the same effect on me. I wish she’d slept with Deputy Dud when I dated him. An experienced slut like her might have given him some pointers.”

“I think you’re serious. And that scares me.”

“He was bad.” Mel grimaced. “Talk about enduring trauma. He grunted like some pig with its snout stuck in a fence the whole minute he lasted. He got mad and insulted when I tried to suggest we try a few things. He acted like I’d told him he had a small dick and his mama was a whore.”

Mary laughed. “Some men are just assholes.”

“Deputy Dud and your ex are prime examples.”

“I’m going to call Joel’s wife and have her bring us one of her delicious pies. Darleen said to tell her if you needed anything. That’s pie. This occasion calls for calories.”

“Why would she offer that?”

“You’re a hero, Mel. I doubt those men would have just shot the New Species and walked out of the diner. We were witnesses, and they didn’t bother to wear masks. We could have identified them if they’d left us alive.”

“Anyone would have done what I did.”

Mary sobered. “No, they wouldn’t have, Mel. They’d have saved their own ass and run in the opposite direction. I’m not proud to admit that I froze. I couldn’t move. I was too scared—but you did something. The customers were trying to crawl toward the kitchen to escape. Joel ran out the back door to get a gun from his truck, but he forgot to grab his keys and locked himself out of both. Then he ran to get help. I know people tease you because of your accent and some of the things you say, but you’re a really good person. I want to be you when I grow up.”

Mel laughed. “You’re older than me by a year.”

“It’s the thought that counts, and I look younger.” She winked. “Makeup is a wonderful thing. I’m going to bring you over to the dark side.”

“You keep your makeup bag away from me. You’ll be the best friend in the whole wide world if you do.”

“I tried to stop Snow from taking you to Reservation. You should have spoken up, but you just meekly allowed him to carry you off. Don’t forget that.” Mary grinned. “I’m not letting you quit your job.”

“You can be replaced. I’m sure there’s some matchmaker website for finding a new best friend.”

Mary snorted. “You’d need to buy a computer or a cell phone first to access the internet. And if there is, I bet Tina’s on one of those sites. She has no friends. You might end up with her as your new bestie. I wouldn’t press your luck any more today, since you were already shot, Mel. She’d not only touch Snow’s ass, she’d dig her heels into it on your couch while nailing him.”

“You really need to get over that.”

“I will one day, when I find someone hotter and better in bed than that jerk.”

“Have you met the guys who live in this town? Deputy Dud is the second-best-looking one who isn’t married. The most good-looking bachelor is your ex.”

“Fuck you, Mel. Now I’m depressed.”

“Misery loves company.”

*

Snow hated that Reservation had been locked down. He wanted to go into town to check up on Melinda. He clenched his hands around his silverware and glared at his dinner. He slammed his fork into the meat and sawed at it with the knife.

“What did that chicken breast do to you?”

He raised his head to glare at Timber. “I can’t believe the task force team members took her home.”

“Melinda? Doc Alli said she was okay to leave Medical.”

“She could be in danger.”

“We were the targets.”

“She shot two humans.”

“They were working together as a team. It wasn’t some big plot with more males involved. We have them in custody, and it’s over. They thought they could become famous by killing Species.” Timber cut his meatloaf. “Crazy humans.”

“I don’t understand their logic.” Jinx sat at Snow’s left. “I can see wanting to do something that makes a lot of money or gets people to admire you for your intelligence or skills. Killing? That gets you locked up and hated.”

“They probably don’t have skills.” Timber shrugged. “It was the only way they could hope to gain their five minutes of fame.”

“They won’t even get that.” Snow felt a little satisfaction over that. “None of the news outlets are aware of what happened. Justice wanted us on high alert for the next twenty-four hours in case that changes. Sheriff Cooper and his deputies are keeping it to themselves, but it’s possible the customers may say something. Joel and the other waitress didn’t seem eager to share that armed males invaded the diner. I think they are worried it would make other humans fear going there.”

A pair of pretty brown eyes with golden flecks flashed through Snow’s mind. “Melinda was taken home with pain medication. She’ll probably stay home until she heals. It would be difficult for her to work with only one good arm. She can’t carry her trays.” Guilt came next. “We should check on her to see if she needs help with anything.”

“Like getting undressed and someone to help her shower?” Jinx grinned. “You’d volunteer for that, wouldn’t you?”

“She did confront two gunmen for us.”

“You always watch her, Snow. Did you think we didn’t notice?” Timber smirked. “Who suggested we go to the diner today? I believe it was you.”

Snow glared at him. “I was in the mood for a steak sandwich, and everyone agreed it sounded good.”

“After you scouted the back parking lot and spotted her car there.” Jinx snorted. “I saw you look in that direction on our way to the sheriff’s office. You made certain she was at the diner, and you suggested having lunch as soon as we were done with our meeting.”

“She’s attractive, and she makes me smile.”

Timber nodded. “She’s a bit shy, though. I think you need a more aggressive female.”

“She shot two males.” Snow’s irritation grew. “That’s courageous. Did you see what the other humans inside the diner did? They threw themselves on the floor, and some were wiggling on their bellies to get away. She didn’t run. She retrieved a weapon to help us.”

Jinx nodded. “That was kind of hot when she stood up clutching that old weapon.”

“I was afraid she’d shoot one of us,” Timber admitted.

“She wouldn’t do that.” Snow slammed his utensils down. “She’s always friendly when we go to the diner.”

“She looked so terrified in that moment, it was possible she’d shoot anything that moved.” Timber frowned. “I didn’t mean she’s an enemy. We all know the difference between humans who are just polite to us because they must be, and those who are friendly because they accept us.”

Snow calmed. “I just want to check on her. I plan to do that after we’re certain we won’t have an issue with the press showing up at our gates or them trying to sneak over a wall.”

Timber nodded. “I’m just glad that Wind is almost recovered from the healing drugs.”

Snow agreed. “He’s a strong male.”

“We’ll go with you,” Jinx offered. “You know it’s best if we stick to groups of at least four until we’re certain there won’t be more issues. I’ll grab someone to fill out our team.”

“Yes,” Timber agreed. “We’ll back you up, Snow.”

“She’ll be at home until she heals. I don’t need you to go with me.”

Jinx chuckled. “We’ll stay outside to keep an eye out for anyone else. We know you want to be alone with her.” He wiggled his eyebrows. “To help her undress and shower. It will be difficult for her to wash her hair with an injured arm.”

Snow growled. “Stop.”

“I talked to Chimes,” Jinx added.

Snow growled louder.

“So, Mr. Blue Eyes with the amazing ass, are you going to wear jeans and your gray tank top?”

Timber laughed at Jinx’s teasing.

“I’ll remember this if you find a female you like.” Snow shot them both dirty looks. “I will get even.”

“He’s going to be doing laundry tonight to make sure her favorite outfit is clean and ready to wear.” Jinx sipped his drink. “Just don’t fall on her in the shower.”

His temper snapped. “I am not clumsy! You’re the one with a name that implies you’re a klutz.”

Timber reached over and slapped his shoulder. “We are teasing. Stop showing off your fangs and thinking about ripping into our flesh.” He lowered his arm. “I’d be more afraid she thinks you don’t have a heart and are cold, with that name you picked.”

Snow stood. “I’m no longer hungry.”

Jinx gripped his arm and yanked on him. “Sit. We will stop teasing.”

He hesitated.

Timber nodded.

Snow sat and picked up his fork. “Leave me alone.”

Jinx leaned in and lowered his voice. “You’d be in a better mood if you shared sex with that female. From what I heard, you don’t have cable.”

“I’m done,” Snow snarled. He threw down his fork and stomped off.

“Come back,” Jinx shouted, laughing. “Where is your sense of humor?”

Timber shook his head as he watched Snow leave. “That was taking it too far about the cable. No male would have admitted the truth under those circumstances, unless he wanted to lose the female’s interest.”

Jinx grinned. “He needs a challenge, and she won’t give him too much of one, judging by the way that human looked at him. He’ll get her undressed, and she’ll be all his as soon as she figures out we know what to do with a female in bed. Too bad he’s not a feline.”

Timber glared. “Some females prefer not to have two pussies to contend with. They also know canines are more loyal.”

“Two pussies?” Jinx arched his eyebrows.

“You and their own sex.”

“Clever.” Jinx rolled his eyes. “A mated Species is always loyal.”

“Too bad most humans aren’t aware of that. They associate canines with something that is loyal. Do you know what they link felines to? Being finicky and difficult.” Timber grinned. “Canines are also known for being excellent with safety and security. Ever hear of a police feline?”

“I’m not allowing you to bait me. I can purr. Human females would be afraid you’d piss on them to mark your territory.”

Timber growled. “Do you know what I think? We should get our aggression out. We could go see who the better fighter is.”

“You just want to stop our discussion now because you know I’ll mention how humans are aware that canines enjoy licking their balls.”

Timber smirked. “What about hairballs?”

“I don’t have fur. You’re lucky you don’t have a tail, or you might chase it all day instead of getting any work done.”

“You’re using words to fight since you know I’d kick you all over the training room floor.”

“I’m a lover, not a fighter.” Jinx laughed. “See? I have a sense of humor. Snow needs to find one.”

Chapter Four

Mel panicked when she opened her front door the next morning and found Snow standing there. He held a large brown bag in his arms and a smile on his face. He sported a dark blue tank top and a faded pair of jeans. Black boots covered his feet…and he looked amazing.

She knew her mouth opened but no words came out. She could only stare into his eyes.

“I brought you food. I also wanted to check on you. May I come in?”

That voice. She crossed her other arm over her chest since she hadn’t put on a bra. The sling hid one side of her chest but now she covered the other. She wasn’t wearing much, actually. “Sure.” She was proud that she’d gained the ability to speak and backed up. “Sorry, but I wasn’t expecting you. I’m in my pajamas.”

He ran his gaze down the length of her body and widened his smile. “I like them.” He stepped inside and closed the door. He studied the room, and his eyebrows lifted. “Your home is very colorful.”

She glanced around, trying to guess what he thought of her place. It wasn’t much. There’d only been five available apartments for rent when she’d moved into town. The one she’d chosen had a single bedroom and affordable rent. The short five-minute walk to work if her old car ever broke down had been the deciding factor. It wasn’t a dive but it wasn’t nice, either.

The walls were a stark white but she’d bought colorful furniture from a secondhand store to liven it up. The mass-production landscape canvases on the walls fit her budget. The splashy throw pillows might be a bit much but they were cute.

“Very colorful,” he said again.

“I know. I probably overdid it a bit.” She turned back to him. “I was in a rebellious mood.”

“I don’t understand.”

She explained, “My mama always said flashy is trashy. I grew up in the house of dull. That’s what I called it. No bright anything except sunshine pouring through the windows, since she also didn’t believe in curtains. Sinners hide behind them. Not her. She wanted anyone to be able to walk up to our front door and know she lived a sin-free life.”

His eyebrows rose. “Flashy is trashy? What does that mean?”

She hesitated. “Nothing good, according to my mama. Bright colors mean you have no taste or class.” She glanced around again. “I wanted color my whole life, and now I have it in heaps. I went overboard. I’m kind of glad I wasn’t allowed to paint the walls. The building owner told me no, and I might have regretted if he’d said yes. I was thinking maybe a neon red. It probably would have clashed with the hot pink chairs and bright blue couch.” Mel grinned.

He chuckled. “I understand wanting something and finally having the chance to obtain it. I was an adult before I found freedom, too.”

She peered up at him but didn’t see any sign to indicate anything she’d said put him off. Sometimes she did that to people without meaning to. She knew with her small-town background, some city folks assumed she was pretty strange. He kept smiling, though. Some of her nervousness faded, and she took in the rest of him.

He was so tall, and just big all over. That chest of his was super wide and the muscles on his arms were enough to make her think he could lift pretty much anything. She liked that. It made her feel dainty and feminine.

The silence between them grew, so she filled it.

“I heard a little something about your previous life. I’m glad you live at Reservation now.”

“I am too.” He juggled the bag. “Do you mind if I put this in your kitchen?”

“Please, make yourself at home.”

He didn’t have far to go. He set the bag on her counter, and Mel was grateful that some of her mama’s habits had stuck. Her apartment was clean. She couldn’t abide messes. When she’d first moved into the cramped space, she’d spent the first week not picking up things. That had been part of her rebellious stage, too, but it wasn’t one she enjoyed. Dirty dishes meant eventually having to wash something anyway if she wanted to eat; soiled laundry laying around became a tripping hazard, plus no clean clothes to wear.

“Are you hungry?” He motioned to the bag.

“I could always eat.” That was the truth. Nobody would ever accuse her of not having a healthy appetite. “It was kind of you to bring me something. Thank you.”

“It’s difficult to cook with one injured arm.”

“This?” She lifted the sling a few inches. “It’s not bad. I’ve had worse. I’m only still wearing it because Mary threatened to dose my food with those pain pills your doctor sent if I didn’t and write ‘dumbass’ on my forehead in marker after I conked out. She’s still upset about me getting shot.”

His gaze locked on her. “So am I. Why would she write that on you? It doesn’t sound like something a friend would do.”

“I don’t think she really would have done it but it’s kind of hard to tell when Mary’s serious. I wasn’t willing to risk it.”

“Would you ever write on her?”

“Maybe if she did it first. It would wash off.”

He laughed. “I’ll remember to avoid you if you have a marker.”

“I’d never do that to you.”

“I’m glad.” It was nice of him to come, but she just wasn’t sure what to say next. “Um…”

He stopped messing with the bag and looked up at her. “What is it?”

She hated being uncomfortable. It was something she should be used to after everything she’d endured growing up. Her mama and some of the town really had put her through the wringer every time she’d done something they hadn’t agreed with. She figured her cheeks might be bright red but she held her ground. “I’m sorry for some of the things I said after I got shot.”

“There’s nothing to apologize for unless you didn’t mean it.”

That stunned her.

He went back to pulling items out of the bag and setting them on her counter. They looked like to-go meals from the diner but she knew he hadn’t gotten them from there. It was still closed.

Snow folded the empty bag and lifted his chin. His gaze locked onto her. “I liked what you said. I even wore a tank top and jeans since you prefer them.”

She was torn between feeling happy and possibly making a beeline toward her bedroom to hide. She usually knew how to talk to men—but not him. He was a New Species. Her strong attraction to him only made matters worse.

“I don’t want to make you uncomfortable. Did I?” His tone softened and his expression grew somber. “I apologize. I was too blunt.”

“No.” She bit her lip. “I just don’t know what to make of you. That’s all.”

“Do I frighten you?”

“I wouldn’t have let you through the door if I thought you’d do something bad to me.”

“Pretend I’m completely human.”

She grinned. “But you’re not.”

“I could act as if I were.”

“Then you wouldn’t be you.” She shook her head. “That isn’t right. Nobody should expect you to change. You’d be miserable. Trust me on that.”

His eyebrows rose.

“I grew up in a small town. Real small. It makes this place seem like Los Angeles. Though, I went to Southern California with my best friend right before Christmas to see some of her family. It was a scary; there were way too many people. I don’t know how they get anywhere in cars. It just seems like folks sit in traffic for most of their day.” Mel shook her head, getting back to her point. “Anyway, there are rules to follow in a small town or you get treated badly. I hated doing all the boring things they found fun. I wanted more for my future than what my folks kept forcing on me. Nothing I did or said was ever good enough. It’s why I finally broke free and left. I just wanted to be who I am. I’m much happier now.”

“Do you enjoy living here?”

“For the most part. I’m kind of a sore thumb. I try to fit in but I see people looking at me weird when I talk. I dropped most of the accent but the way I word things still screams ‘farm girl.’ I can’t really deny it, since it’s where I came from. Some snobby people think I’m dumb as a post or slow. I’m really not. I’m just…me.”

“I think you’re perfect the way you are.”

Warmth spread through her at his compliment. “Thank you. Would you like to sit? The food can wait.”

“Sure.” He left her kitchen and stepped into her living room.

She turned and took a seat on the couch. He sat next to her, only a few feet separating them. Mel studied his face. He really was incredibly handsome, and his eyes were over-the-top sexy. “Do you want honesty?”

“I’d like that a lot.”

She took a deep breath and blew it out. “I’ve been attracted to you in a big way since I first saw you. You make me nervous, though, and I feel like a virgin on prom night. I’m not implying we’re going to have sex,” she rushed on. “It’s just an example.”

“Is that a bad thing?”

She laughed. “It depends on the virgin. Some can’t wait to get rid of it and others are purely terrified.”

“Which type are you?” He smiled.

“I’m kind of borderline. I thought about asking you out but you all don’t seem to date. I’d know it if a New Species had a girlfriend who lived here. Everyone would gossip about it. It hasn’t happened yet. And I don’t want to get involved if you’re only looking for sex. Some men like the chase and once they get what they want, they move on. I’m not that sort.”

“You’re not looking for a one-night stand?”

“No. I’m also not ready to jump into bed with you right off the bat, if you’re attracted to me, too, but that whole you-don’t-date thing stumps me. It’s tough to get to know you better to figure out what kind of man you are. I don’t know much about New Species, but I refuse to read that crap they print in the tabloids or listen to the trash talk on television. I mean, I’ve never been tempted to nail my cousins, and I sure wouldn’t marry any of them, but that’s how a lot of small-town folk are represented to the rest of the world. Though I know not all city folks are snobs or weirdoes. I’ve met some real nice people who are down to earth.”

“New Species don’t go out on dates. That’s true. It’s not because we’re opposed to it, but we tend to draw a lot of attention and crowds if we venture into the outside world. It’s not bad here in this town. We aren’t followed around, photographed, or attacked…usually. Homeland is another story. It is surrounded by large human cities.”

He placed his arm over the back of the couch and twisted his body more to face her. “Species don’t want to put anyone in danger, and some humans have been targeted after their association with us became known. That’s a deep concern to us. It can be life threatening when a human dates a Species. Not from our kind, but from yours. It’s also tough to date at Homeland or Reservation. Not too many places to take a date. We have a bar that serves food but most of us don’t drink alcohol. Our bars aren’t like the ones humans visit.”

“You don’t drink?”

He shook his head. “Alcohol tastes vile, and it doesn’t sound fun to get drunk. No one wants to be out of control and foolish in front of witnesses. We have bars as social places to gather, dance, and eat. We mostly drink coffee, teas and juices there.”

“That sounds nice.”

“Humans who date each other have privacy when they go out. We don’t. Everyone is curious about Species, and they watch the couple’s every move regardless of where they go. It is not fun to be stared at.”

“That does make things tough.”

He chuckled. “It does.” His humor faded. “I would love to take you out on dates but I’m afraid someone might notice if you began to regularly spend time at Reservation with me. You would leave the safety of our gates, and I wouldn’t be here to protect you. It’s happened in the past. A female was kidnapped after it became known she had spent time with one of our males who lived at Reservation. She was taken from this town.”

“I haven’t heard anything about that.”

“It happened a while ago. Her name is Tammy, and she mated to Valiant. Two males targeted us yesterday because they’d heard we visit town without the kind of precautions we use when we leave Homeland. It’s made us tighten security here for a while. I had to argue with someone to come visit you. There are three armed males outside in case of trouble. I’d like to spend time getting to know you…but I don’t want to put you in danger. I am attracted to you, Melinda.”

“It’s just Mel. My boss insisted on using my full name on the tag I wear at work.”

“Mel.”

He rasped her name in a growly way and looked at her as if she were an ice cream he’d like to lick. She crossed her arms over her chest again.

“What would you like to know about Species? Ask anything.”

“Anything?”

He nodded. “Yes. There’s no need to be shy or worry that I’ll become offended. This is us getting to know each other. Think of it as a home date. I would like to. We have food nearby and privacy. I wish I’d thought to bring you flowers.”

“I’d sneeze. Roses and carnations aren’t my friends.”

He smiled. “What do you like?”

She hesitated. “You brought me food. That’s perfect. I’m not fancy. I usually feel uncomfortable in nice places. I went to one of those high-end restaurants with Mary when we were in Los Angeles. I didn’t even know why they gave me two forks. It seemed kind of wasteful to dirty an extra one. I couldn’t tell a salad or dinner fork apart to save my life.”

He laughed. “I wouldn’t know, either.”

“We went to a fancy rib joint, too, and you should have seen the looks I got when I picked them up with my fingers. That’s how you eat ribs. They were using forks and knives. That’s just weird. It was a pain when I tried it.”

“I had to learn how to use silverware but I still eat a lot with my fingers. We weren’t allowed forks or knives while I lived at Mercile. We got plastic platters of food. They didn’t even give us napkins; I licked my fingers clean. Sometimes I forget to use one, despite being freed, but I eat with other Species. They don’t care or look at me strangely. Eating in front of humans makes me nervous. I worry that I’ll offend or disgust them in some way. We do like our red meat bloody.”

She smiled, liking him a lot. He was down-to-earth. “I only eat my prime rib that way. I like it real pink but not raw. I don’t mind if you eat it that way, though. To each his own. I just don’t like the taste or how chewy it is if it’s too rare.”

“You’ve eaten rare meat?”

“Not on purpose. Let’s just say my cousin married a girl who couldn’t cook and invited me to dinner. She made a roast. We ate it, but it wasn’t cooked near enough. Nobody wanted to hurt her feelings. She was trying hard to fit in, and that isn’t easy when you’re a city girl moving to a small town. I wrote her a recipe to follow before I left, told her Ray loved that version with garlic. I was real clear about the temperature and how long to keep it in the oven.”

“That was nice. You can cook?”

“As if my mama would allow me not to. She dragged me into the kitchen to help her about the time I could walk. It gave her a break when I got older, so she didn’t have to do the cooking every night. It’s just the way it is where I was raised. Women cook and clean.” She shrugged. “It’s old-school thinking. My papa did all the heavy-duty outside chores, then would drink a beer and get waited on in the evening.”

“Are you old school?”

“Why? Are you looking for a woman who will clean your house, cook your meals, and do all your laundry?” She smiled to show him she was teasing.

He grinned in return and lifted his hand to his chin, tapping it. “Let me think.”

She laughed. “I’m a little more modern.”

He dropped his hand to his lap. “Fair enough. I learned how to cook. My skills are limited but I don’t starve. I do my own laundry and my home is clean. We aren’t big on messes. Dirty laundry and unwashed dishes stink, and we have sensitive noses.”

“Then I’m glad I was awake for a while before you got here and brushed my teeth.”

He laughed. “So am I.”

They regarded each other with smiles. He finally spoke again.

“What else would you like to know about Species? Any concerns or worries about me?”

“I don’t know. I’ve been so fixated on how to get close enough to talk to you that I hadn’t reached the stage of figuring out what I’d say if I did.”

“I really like you, Mel. It goes well beyond just the physical attraction.” He bent the knee closest to her and turned more. “Some females are concerned about our fangs.”

“I saw them. Not yours. You kind of talk with your lips close together. But one of your friends yesterday showed his after the attack.”

“I wouldn’t hurt you with them. It’s possible to kiss a Species without bleeding.”

“That’s good to know. I appreciate that.”

He chuckled. “They do have their advantages. I’m not sure if you’re ready for that conversation yet.”

“Go for it. I’m super curious.”

He glanced at her neck briefly before peering into her eyes. “Light bites feel really good with fangs. During sex…” He paused. “Are you sure I’m not making you uncomfortable? I don’t want to.”

She tried to imagine him kissing her and was glad her arms were covering her breasts. Suddenly it was the rest of her body that started to worry her. “How good is your sense of smell?”

“You buy coconut products. I like the way you smell, if you’re wondering. You aren’t wearing perfume, and I appreciate that. It makes me sneeze.”

“We better change the subject to something else then. I don’t want to be embarrassed.”

“There’s no reason to be. Are you shy about discussing sex?”

“It’s more of a worry about you picking up how I react to the conversation.”

He looked confused for a split second but suddenly smiled again. “Oh.”

“I have a real good imagination. You talking about all that makes me start to picture it.” Her cheeks felt warm, but despite that, she liked their forthright discussion. “I was raised on a farm. Not to be offensive…but I know a male anything can sniff out a girl feeling frisky.”

He leaned in closer. “I’ll control myself. You wanted to get to know me better, so I’ll resist touching if you do start scenting of arousal, no matter how much you drive me crazy. I put my own hand where it is to hide my reaction to you.”

She glanced down at his lap and saw the way he’d angled his hand down and across to his other thigh. His forearm covered his crotch. She lifted her gaze and found him staring at her again, a look in his eyes that made her feel even warmer.

Mel blurted the first thing that come to mind. “We have attraction down, then.”

“We do. You might have concerns about how a New Species would be in bed. Should I go on?”

She nodded. She had always been too curious for her own good. Right now, she suspected that curiosity was like shaking something red at a bull. It was just asking for trouble. Yet, she still wasn’t willing to ask him something safe and boring, like what kind of movies he enjoyed.

“Fangs,” he cleared his throat, “have their advantages. I wouldn’t even have to use my fingers to gain access to your clit. The fangs help with that. Species love the taste of aroused females. We’re very different from some of your males that way; we all enjoy giving oral sex. We need to taste, and nothing is sexier than making a female soaking wet while hearing her moans.”

Her heart rate increased, and she was tingling between her legs. “Now you’re being mean.”

“Why?”

“I admitted my last boyfriend was a dud in bed. Do you know how long it’s been since I had sex? Almost a year.” She smiled, amused. “Mean, Snow. Just mean.”

His nostrils flared as he inhaled. “You smell incredible. You make my mouth water.”

She hugged her body tighter and pressed her knees together more firmly. “Is it hot in here?”

“Yes.”

“Stop looking at me like that or we’re going to be in trouble. I’ll grab you, you’ll end up helping me get naked… Before we know it, we’ll be on the floor.” She breathed harder. “Then after you leave, I’ll hate myself.”

“I don’t want you just once, Mel. I’m different than the males you have known. Not all of them seem to appreciate females the way we do.”

“You’re not helping. I’m trying to resist. Must resist,” she chanted jokingly. Then she thought of something. “I don’t have condoms. I don’t keep any since I’m not seeing anybody. I always make a guy wear those. I’m afraid of diseases and double up on protection, but my birth control pills are also wonky for a month, according to your doctor. If you pull a condom out of your pocket, maybe that means you’d planned to seduce me. Which would make me wonder if you were only trying to use me for sex. Do you have any…?”

“No. I could turn out my pockets if you wish. I did lie about one thing, but not this.”

“What did you lie about?”

“I do have cable. But your theory can’t apply to me, since I haven’t had it long and I’m not human.”

“That’s fair and valid. Why did you lie about it?”

“I was afraid it would make you not like me anymore if you assumed I’d be a bad lover.”

“Well, you got me halfway there just by talking and looking at me the way you are. I’ll give you the benefit of the doubt.”

“Halfway there?”

“Take another whiff.”

He leaned in even closer and his nose flared. His eyes closed, and his body tensed. He straightened in his seat before he opened them. “Cruel, Mel.”

She smiled. “I’m the one who’s going to have to change my bottoms when you’re gone. It’s not real comfy walking around wet down there.”

“I’m not real comfortable right now, either.” He shifted his ass on the couch and leaned back a bit more.

She glanced down. His arm wasn’t going to hide that bulge.

He looked down, too, and grinned. “Do you want me to apologize for my size?”

“No. But I have to be honest, that is a bit scary. I know some women say bigger is better, but I’m kind of not into pain.”

“I’d go slow and easy until you adjusted to me.”

“That’s not helpful. Your voice dropping that low and deep isn’t, either. You don’t know what you do to me when you sound like that. Notice my arms over my chest? It’s for a reason. I always react when you start talking to me.”

“Show me. I think I like you torturing me.”

“We’ve got to stop this, Snow. I can’t end up on the floor with you, and we’re heading there fast.”

“Why the floor?”

“This couch isn’t big enough for us to get frisky on. My bed isn’t, either. I have a twin-size. Not to mention, I’m not sure how you’ll feel once you see my bedroom. I went overboard in there, too.”

“I’d go look at it if I could stand without hurting myself. That’s almost a challenge.”

She laughed. “It’s even brighter, and there are sheets hanging from the ceiling around the bed. I always wanted something like that as a kid. I wasn’t allowed.”

“And you rebelled now.”

“Yes.”

“Would you really regret it if I touched you?”

“I’d feel kind of slutty. This is our first date.”

His eyebrows shot up.

“It’s kind of ingrained in me from my upbringing. I’ll think of how my mama went on and on about how only sluts go to bed with a man on the first date, and it’ll make me feel bad. I know it isn’t true but it’s my issue. I’m sorry you’re dealing with it.”

“It’s okay. I think it’s cute.”

“Could you tell my old therapist that? He wasn’t kind about it.”

He chuckled. “You see one?”

“I used to until he made me mad. He kept insisting that I return home to deal with my folks. I’m never going back. I’d have to share a house with my mama again, and no way is that happening. I got a taste of freedom. I’d be ten times more miserable if I went home.”

“Why do you have to live with her?”

“I can’t afford to buy my own place. There’re only two houses available to renters in my small town. One of them isn’t fit for living in and the other one is right next to the city dump. It smells something awful. My mama and her church group would also put those families who own them through pure misery for renting to me, even if I was willing to live like that. There aren’t any apartments. The only other option would be to get a boyfriend to move in with. No way.”

“You’re opposed to living with a male?”

“It depends on the man. There aren’t any there that I would.”

He smiled. “I think you’d enjoy sharing my bed every night.”

“Did anyone ever tell you that you’re kind of a bad boy?”

“No.”

“You are.”

“Is that a problem?”

“I’m drawn to bad boys in a big way, especially you. I guess it’s that rebellious side of me.”

“How about this?” He blew out a breath. “This was our first date. Tonight, I’ll come get you and we can have our second date.”

“That’s moving kind of fast.”

“Life is short. You were shot yesterday, Mel. All I could think about last night was how I’d regret it if I’d never gotten to spend time with you.”

She was too tempted. “Okay.” She might regret her decision later, but in that moment, she wasn’t able to say no. “How should I dress?”

“Preferably, in something I can get off you easily. Do you have issues with me touching you on a second date?”

“No.”

“Good. Bring an overnight bag. I want you to stay all night.”

“What if our second date doesn’t go well? You’d be stuck with me until tomorrow.”

He smiled. “It’s not going to go bad. I have learned enough to feel secure that we’re very compatible. It’s not just about sex. I enjoy spending time with you, Mel.”

She swallowed hard. “I feel the same way.”

“I want you to stay the night. Will you?”

“You’re definitely a bad boy, Snow. I’ll pack a bag.”

He grinned. “I will locate condoms and make sure they are in my home.”

“Don’t you keep some there anyway?”

He shook his head. “No.”

“I think I like that you don’t.”

“You’re the only female I’m interested in, Mel. Species tend to obsess about a female they want and no one else will do. Do you understand?”

“You’re not going to chase tail while we’re together?”

“If ‘chase tail’ means touch other females, the answer is no.”

“I like that, too. I hope it’s the truth.”

He leaned in. “You could sleep in my bed every night just to be sure.”

“Now I know you must want me. You’re talking crazy.”

“Species don’t need to date. We rely on our instincts and how we feel.” He backed up a little. “I’ve been drawn to you for a while. You’re the one who needs time to figure out if you want to be in my bed every night. I already know I want you there. I’ll be back at five. Is that good?”

“Yes.”

“Maybe a little earlier. I wish I could take you right now… How about it? You could show me your bedroom while we pack you a bag.”

“Five is good. Maybe four-thirty. I need to cool down a bit or I’ll be the crazy one.”

He chuckled. “Should I serve you food before I go?”

She shook her head. “I can do it.”

“I’ll go.” He didn’t move, though.

“Okay.”

They stared at each other.

“How upset would you be if I just lifted you up and carried you to the SUV?”

“I’d probably get over it real fast. I don’t hold a grudge when it comes to people I care about. I’d appreciate it, though, if you didn’t. I need to beat myself up a bit over some of the things I said to you and then I’ll get it out of my system.”

“Don’t do that.”

“It’s how I am. Don’t worry, I’ll get over that, too.”

“Can I take a peek into your bedroom? I’m very curious.”

“Sure. Just don’t change your mind about wanting to date me.”

He laughed. “I won’t. I’m set on that.” He finally stood and disappeared down the short hallway that led to the bathroom and bedroom. She sat there, glad she couldn’t see his reaction.

He walked out a minute later with a big grin on his face. “Colorful.”

“Are you freaked out even a little?”

“It reminded me of a movie I saw. I wish you had a bigger bed. I’d like to be enclosed inside those walls of sheets with you.”

“Really? Most men would hate that bed.”

“I’m not most men, Mel. I’ll see you around four-thirty. Don’t change your mind or get mad at me if I carry you out of here later. I have to prove that cable hasn’t ruined me for you.”

She loved his sense of humor. “I’ll be ready. I might get scared but I face most things head on. I won’t run. That would make me feel cowardly.”

He nodded. “I’m leaving. I’m going to return to Reservation and plan our date.”

“Thank you for the food.”

He held her gaze. “I’ve got an urge to take care of you and be around you. It’s strong. And I don’t fight my instincts, Mel. You should know that about me.”

After a long moment, he tore his gaze off her and marched out the door. He pushed the bottom lock as he went, shutting it behind him.

She sat there with her eyes closed, letting her head fall back on the cushions of the couch.

“That man is pure sin, and I’m going to hell. But I don’t even care. I’m going to pack a bag.”

Three pairs of eyes turned Snow’s way.

Jinx sniffed and lifted a brow. “No?”

“Shut up. I didn’t come to share sex with Mel.”

Jinx cleared his throat. “Do you need helpful suggestions about how to seduce a human female? They are a little different from ours.”

Torrent frowned. “I’m not going to give you any shit. I was hopeful that you’d found yourself a female.”

“Who said I didn’t?” Snow grinned. “We’re coming back at four-thirty to pick her up. She’s returning to Reservation with me. We are having our second date. She’s spending the night.”

“Nice.” Torrent gave him a thumbs-up.

“Date?” Timber snorted. “You just get one into bed and convince her that you’re the male for her. Then you mate and keep her. It’s that simple.”

“Tell me how that works out when you find a female you’re fixated on.” Snow opened the back door of the SUV and climbed inside. “Let’s go. I have things to do.”

The males piled in, Timber behind the wheel. “We had things to do, too, but we were being a part of your four-male team—and now we have to do it again later. You could have asked.”

“Someone’s a bit snappy.” Jinx took a seat in the back next to Snow. “Are you jealous that Snow is finally getting the female he wants?”

“No bickering.” Torrent slammed the front passenger door closed. “Do you know why I like dealing with the Wild Zone males more so than you? They get to the point. No drawn-out arguments. They snarl a few words before the fight is on. They exchange blows until one wins and the other backs down. I respect that. You’re becoming too human.”

Timber drove away from the apartment building and back onto the road. They were quiet for a few miles.

Jinx finally spoke. “I’m starting to worry about what kind of female will draw your attention, Torrent. Perhaps Kit?”

Torrent smirked. “You only say that because you fear her. She’d hurt your overly sensitive feelings. That’s fine. Leave her to stronger males who can truly appreciate her. She’d never invite you to share sex, anyway.”

Jinx snarled.

Snow met Torrent’s gaze in the side-view mirror, knowing the male had gotten their attention off him and his upcoming date. He smiled in thanks. Torrent winked.

Chapter Five

“I should probably put on makeup, right?” Mel stared at her reflection.

“You never wear it. Why start now? You say it’s a waste of money and ramble on about how men are jerks if they can’t appreciate us as we are.” Mary met her gaze from behind her in the mirror. “You said some girl traumatized you once and it left a lasting mark.”

“Barbara Jill. Yeah. My cousin’s wife from the city. She always wore makeup, but I didn’t realize how much. Once, Ray came to dinner with this strange girl. I was tempted to tear him a new one, thinking he was cheating on that sweet wife of his. It was just Barbara without her makeup. I kept staring at her all night because she looked totally different. She called it ‘contours’ and stuff. It was more like magic makeup. Her nose looked bigger and her lips were smaller without all that stuff on her face. Her eyelashes were hard to see, too; apparently she always wore fake ones. She didn’t have eyebrows, either!”

Mary laughed. “No?”

“She drew them on. She didn’t like her real ones and kept them plucked. All I kept thinking about was my poor cousin. Did he go to bed with one woman and wake up in the morning staring at a stranger? I asked him in private if he’d ever screamed. I would have.”

Mary leaned against the wall to stay upright as she laughed. “You should see how horrified you look. What did he say?”

“She did what he called an ‘unmasking’ before they were married. Maybe he said an unveiling, but the other word fits better. She’d refused to spend the night with him while they dated, and that bothered him. He’d taken a job for a construction company in the city for a couple of years to make enough money to buy his farm; that’s when he met her. He figured they could have spent more time together, and saved money, if they were sharing a place while they dated. Anyway, she finally showed him her secret. He was okay with it, of course. He already loved her, so he said he could put up with her foolery.”

Mary pulled herself together. “Foolery? You’re showing your hick side. You never fail to amuse.”

“Thanks.”

“I successfully distracted you. It’s too easy. Now we have your bag packed, and you have your keys. Do you know what that means? You’re all set to go!”

“Aren’t you going to try to talk me out of this?”

“Is that why you were so happy to see me when I came over to check on you?”

“I needed help washing my hair.” Mel paused. “And yeah. You’re supposed to be my voice of reason. I have a weakness for Snow. I admit it. He looks at me, talks, and I’m putty in his hands.”

Mary held up a fisted hand and straightened her index finger. “He’s hot.” Her second finger went up. “He wants to have sex with you and is interested in more than a one-night stand.” Her ring finger was next. “You want to have sex with him, and you believe him.” Her pinky straightened. “You’re both adults.” She curled her fingers once more and stuck up her thumb. “It’s a go. You’ll regret it if you don’t give this relationship a shot.”

“Thanks.”

“I’m not your mother. Live. Have fun. Snow is the man you’ve been talking to me about since the day he walked into our diner months ago. Nonstop talking, too. I’m a bit jealous.”

“Do you want to date a New Species?”

“No! They scare me, and the closest thing I’ve had to a pet involved a fishbowl. Do you know why?”

“I remember. You think animals hate you.”

“Exactly. You’re comfortable with New Species because you were raised with a lot of animals around you.”

“That sounds kind of snooty, Mary.”

Her best friend flipped her off. “They have fangs. I don’t dislike them, but I just want those sharp teeth far away from any of my body parts. I also wouldn’t date a woman. It’s not because I have anything against anyone who would. They just don’t have the body parts that I want to touch. Fangs are a mood killer. Growling, not to mention how huge those guys are, makes me want to run in terror. Period.”

“You need a therapist,” Mel teased. “Just don’t go to the one I did. He’s a jerk and will make fun of you. You really think all animals are out to get you?”

Mary grew deadly serious. “They are.”

“But you have no trouble finding and spending time with losers without fangs.”

“That’s true. I seem to pick the ones who can’t keep their pants zipped up around other women.”

The doorbell rang, and Mel jumped. Mary grabbed her bag and offered it to her. “Go. I’ll let myself out. I have the spare key.”

“Don’t you want to say hi?”

“Fangs, remember? Stop stalling.”

“Guilty as charged.”

Mary shoved the bag at her again and she took it. “Go.”

Mel hurried into the living room. She plastered on a smile and unlocked the door, yanking it open.

Some of her nervousness melted away at the sight of Snow grinning down at her. He had changed into a pair of black jeans and a matching tank top. The boots were the same. He held out his hand.

“Let me take your bag.”

“Thank you.” She passed it over.

He suddenly frowned. “Where’s your sling?”

“Off. I figured it was only going to get in the way, and I’m feeling better. It was only a few stitches and the swelling has gone away. Farm work isn’t for pansies. I once slid across the barn roof and ripped open part of my leg. Thank goodness I had a rope tied around my waist, so I didn’t fall off the side. I’ll show you the scar later. I hope you don’t mind a few of those.”

“I have some myself.” He twisted a little and pulled on part of his shirt, revealing one on his back.

She studied the thin line that marred his skin, then met his gaze. He suddenly looked a little pale. “What’s wrong? Are you having second thoughts about spending the night with me?”

“Never.” He bit his bottom lip as he faced her fully. It was cute. He released it with his fangs. “You might ask how I was injured when you see the rest of my body…and they aren’t good stories. Do you mind seeing scars on a male?”

“Not at all.”

“I’m a survivor. Life at Mercile was tough, and sometimes I had to do things that might make you fear me when you find out.”

“You’re a good man, Snow. I know that. Some folks deserve to die, if that’s what you’re implying. I shot two men, remember? I think it’s sexy that you’re a survivor.”

“Good.” He grinned. “I should be very sexy to you, then.”

She stepped out when he backed up a few feet, then closed the door and turned to walk to the parking lot.

“Aren’t you going to lock that?”

“Mary is inside. She’ll do it when she leaves.”

“Friend support? Did she try to change your mind about tonight?”

“Nope. She came over to check on me and helped me shower, since it’s tough to wash my hair. My arm hurts when I reach up and move it around. Mary actually encouraged me to go home with you.”

He looked surprised. “Most human females wouldn’t feel that way.”

“Mary’s my friend. She wants what’s best for me, and she thinks that might be you. She’s like the sister I always wished I had.”

“I’m glad that you have someone like that in your life.”

“Do you have a best friend?”

“A few of them.”

He kept her close and put his arm around her waist when they reached the SUV. Two New Species she saw regularly at the diner waited for them, but the other she’d only seen a few times.

“This is Jinx. You remember him. The male smiling at you is Torrent. Timber is behind the wheel again. He likes to drive. This is Mel,” he introduced her.

“Hello.” She smiled at them.

Torrent opened the back passenger door. “Allow me.”

“I would have gotten that. I know human etiquette.” Snow tensed.

“Relax.” Torrent held out his hand. “I’ll take her bag to the back and sit there. You two can share the middle seat. That way your female isn’t crowded between two bulky males.”

Mel climbed in and scooted across the seat. She glanced back to watch Torrent open the hatch and he just climbed in, over the trunk area and into a third row of seats. He winked. She faced Snow as he slid in next to her and closed the door.

“Don’t be nervous. You look it,” he whispered. “We must travel in fours right now. These are my friends.”

“I’m not worried about that. It’s more nervousness over our date.” She glanced at the men in the big SUV. “I’m not afraid of New Species.”

“Good.” Snow helped her put on her seat belt. “You’re completely safe.”

She believed him.

Snow couldn’t remember a time he felt more nervous. The males in the SUV kept glancing at him, probably silently urging him to say the perfect thing to Mel. He just didn’t know what that would be. He studied her, noticed the way she looked slightly uncomfortable, and reached out his hand to her. She took it and smiled.

He began to relax. It didn’t matter what the males thought or if they teased him later. All he cared about was Mel.

“You said you like ribs. That’s what I planned for our dinner together. There will be only one fork to eat the side dishes with.”

“That sounds perfect.”

“I want you to be comfortable in my home.”

“I’m sure I will be.”

“It’s not as colorful as yours. Perhaps you could help me with that.”

She laughed, and he let all the tension in his body go. He and Mel were attracted to each other, and she was a nice female. He knew that about her from all the times he’d watched her work in the diner, hoping for a chance to speak to her alone. He had just never been allowed to go into town by himself. She’d seemed shy, and he hadn’t wanted to spook her. He’d been patient, hoping she would approach him.

The drive to Reservation wasn’t long, and he had gotten special permission to bring Mel in without her being searched. She’d shot humans to protect Species. It proved she wasn’t a threat…and they’d already run a background check on her. It was standard procedure after she’d been brought in with a medical emergency. The SUV only slowed, not having to stop at the gate. He didn’t feel it would be a good start to a date to have her patted down by a guard.

Timber glanced at him in the rearview mirror, almost seeming to read his mind. He and the other males had vouched for Mel.

They continued to the hotel, and he exited out of the side door once parked, helping her wiggle off the seat. Torrent brought her bag, and Snow accepted it. He glanced at the team. “Thank you.”

Mel stayed close to his side, her hand clutched in his. They approached the front of the hotel, and Mel’s steps slowed until she came to a stop. He glanced down, worried that she’d changed her mind.

“I thought we were going to your house.”

“I live here, Mel.”

“Oh.”

“Some of our males have homes in the Wild Zone, but most Species live in suites inside the hotel. They were remodeled after we bought Reservation.” He took her inside and led her to the elevators. “They are now like human apartments. I have a kitchen, living room, bedroom, and bath. They took down walls to combine the units into larger quarters.”

She smiled. “That’s cool.”

“The NSO wants us to be comfortable and not have to share personal spaces.”

He punched the second-floor button and they rode up in silence. He stepped out first, keeping a hold on her hand, and took her down the hallway to his place. He let her go, reached inside his back pocket, and slid his card though the reader. It turned green and he opened it, motioning her to go in first. She slowly entered.

He’d left the curtains open. Sunshine lit the space to show off how clean he kept it. It was imperative to him that he impress Mel and show her that he didn’t want her to be his maid. He watched her expressions as he used his foot to close the door and placed her bag down. She strolled into his living room.

“It’s super nice and roomy.”

“Thank you. I didn’t pick much in the way of furnishings. Some human designer Justice hired did.”

She turned, facing him. “There is some color. I like light blues and browns.”

“Justice didn’t want us reminded of our cells at Mercile. They were a dingy gray.”

After a moment of silence, she licked her lips. “Are you as nervous as I am?”

“A little. I’m afraid I’ll frighten you but I won’t mean to.”

Her expression gentled. “Show me the rest of your place, if you don’t mind.”

“My home is your home.” He meant that. He wouldn’t mind if Mel stayed forever. Just imagining having her with him all the time made his chest ache. He’d been alone his entire life. The idea of sharing his living space with Mel sounded wonderful. “This part was once another hotel room, but they removed the bathroom and put in a kitchen, and then made this my living room.”

She walked to his kitchen island across the room and ran her fingers over the granite. “It’s way nicer than the one at my place. You even have a dishwasher and built-in microwave. I don’t have either of those things.”

“It’s compact but efficient. Some units have kitchens but others don’t. There are males who aren’t comfortable with cooking. We have a cafeteria on the ground floor that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. There is also a fridge for anyone who gets hungry in the middle of the night, stocked with snacks and sandwiches.”

“That’s convenient and pretty cool. I don’t think I’d ever cook if I had that option downstairs. Is the food good?”

“It’s excellent. Justice hired skilled humans to cook for us. Our dinner is coming from there. I hope you don’t mind that I didn’t do the cooking myself. I didn’t want to risk giving you food poisoning on our second date.” He grinned. “Barbecue ribs are beyond my skill set. They will deliver our meal at six. I thought that would give us some time to talk and unwind.”

“It sounds perfect.”

“Let me show you the bedroom and bathroom.” He felt nervous again. “Not that I’m trying to lure you in there for the purpose of sharing sex.”

She smiled. “You’re nervous too.”

“Yes,” he easily admitted. “I care about you and don’t want to mess this up.”

“Can I ask you something?”

“Anything, Mel.”

“I noticed you always say ‘sharing sex’ instead of ‘having sex.’ Is that a New Species thing?”

He nodded. “Sharing sex is something a male and female do together. Having sex doesn’t sound right to us. Your kind say that, but we see your news stories on our televisions. Not all your males care about a female’s consent. It’s just how we speak and view things. Like the way we say male and female, instead of man and woman. We’re like you, but not. To say sharing sex makes it clear both of us are equally involved.”

Mel stared up at him for long seconds.

He wondered if he shouldn’t have been that honest.

A smile curved her lips. “I like that.”

She took the lead and entered his bedroom. It was a big space with a king-size bed, a large television, and two dressers. He hated to hang his clothing and rarely did. He used the closet to store his work uniforms, shoes, boots, and weapons. He had closed the doors to that small space, worried the sight of guns might frighten Mel.

“Wow.”

He wasn’t sure what that meant. She liked color, and his room didn’t have a lot of it. “I meant it when I said you could help me decorate. I’d love those hanging sheets around my bed.”

She turned to him. “Really? You’re not just saying that? I think it’s kind of exotic to have drapes enclosing a bed. I always wanted to get one of those bamboo beds with the pretty, sheer curtains, but they were far too expensive. I kind of made my own by hanging bedding from the ceiling. Actual curtains were out of my budget.”

He drew closer to her. “I used to sleep on a pad on the floor. Your bed looked comfortable and cozy. It was very appealing.”

She turned to face him. Her gaze was soft, a look of almost concern in her eyes. He liked her staring at him that way, as if she really did care. He hoped she did.

“Do you want to tell me about Mercile?”

“Perhaps later. It’s not a good story.”

She surprised him by reaching out and resting her hand on his forearm. “It’s part of who you are. I’d like to know everything. I told you a bit about my life.”

He believed her. “We’ve got all the time in the world to learn about our pasts. I’m more interested in the now.”

She smiled. “Are you afraid I’ll run if I find out too much, too fast? I feel that way about my own past sometimes. My family is kind of crazy.”

It was on the tip of his tongue to tell her she didn’t have anything to be ashamed of. He’d read the background check the NSO had done on her. She had worked three different jobs as a waitress, had no arrest record, and had lived in two places during her life.

Guilt surfaced. He should confess that he knew that information, but he’d been warned some humans grew angry when they found out about the NSO digging into their lives. He changed the subject. “You haven’t seen the bathroom yet. I think it’s a nice one.”

She slid her hand down his arm and curled her fingers around his. He clasped them and she turned, leading him out of his bedroom and back into the living room. She kept going, walked to his couch, and tugged on down. They both sat next to each other. She held his gaze.

“Breathe. That’s what I’m doing.”

She was trying to put him at ease. “I am nervous.”

“Have you ever dated someone like me before? I mean, not New Species?”

“You’re my first human.”

“You’re my first New Species.”

“I’d like to be your last and only.”

She blushed and dipped her head before looking back up at him. “I don’t know what to say to that.”

“I know I move too fast for you.”

“You’re very confident.”

“Because I know what I want.”

“We barely know each other.”

That was true. He couldn’t deny it. “I’ve been drawn to you since I first saw you. I was too worried you’d be afraid of me if I approached. I was waiting and hoping you’d come to me. I’ve taken every opportunity to eat at the diner to see you since coming to Reservation. I even asked to be assigned to the team sent to speak to Sheriff Cooper for our regular meetings, to give me the opportunity to see you. I like all the things I’ve learned about you, Mel.”

“Like what?”

“Your smile. The way your voice softens when you speak to me. I’ve caught you watching me while I eat, but you always glanced away before I could smile. The way you speak fascinates me. I could listen to you all day and night. You’re a bit shy, and I like that, too. It’s endearing when you blush. You’re as sweet as you scent when we talk. I’m also strongly sexually attracted to you. You make me feel protective, like I want to just take you home with me to keep. My instincts tell me you belong here, with me. It’s just that simple.”

“I’ve felt this big pull toward you, too, since I first laid eyes on you.”

Her admitting as much made him feel happiness. “Instincts.”

“Is that what it is?”

“Yes.” He wanted to kiss her but resisted the urge. “Humans seem to ignore them, but Species don’t.”

“Aren’t you afraid of getting hurt? What if I end up being the wrong person for you? We could be a disaster.”

“I’m willing to risk it.”

She nodded. “Me too. That’s why I’m here.”

“I’m glad you are, Mel.”

“I’m still nervous.”

“Tell me why. You can talk to me about anything. I’d welcome it.”

She chewed on her lower lip with her smooth teeth before speaking. “We’re so different. And I don’t want to fall in love with you—which I suspect is going to be unavoidable—because I’ll get my heart broken if we break up.”

He released her hand and slid off the couch, shoved the coffee table out of the way, and then faced her on his knees. He gently spread her thighs, inching closer, and cupped her face with both hands to peer deeply into her brown eyes.

“I’m a male who won’t do that, Mel. You can trust me. I know what I want. I just need to show you how good we can be together.” He glanced at her mouth. “I’m going to kiss you.”

She licked her lips and nodded. “Okay.”

He leaned in, closed his eyes, and brushed his lips against hers.

He didn’t have a lot of experience at kissing. Some of the female Species he’d shared sex with didn’t like it. A few had taught him, though. He used that skill now, when it really mattered.

He just held back a bit not to startle her with the amount of need he felt to taste her.

Snow took his time before he dipped between her slightly parted lips and teased her tongue with his own.

He groaned, his cock instantly responding to how right she felt and tasted to him. She met his kiss, her hands clutching his arms instead of trying to shove him away.

He pressed against her. Mel submitted to him by leaning back, seeming to welcome his body pushing hers into the couch. Passion burned higher, and he wanted to strip her bare, run his mouth and tongue all over her skin and taste every inch.

Melinda was his. He just knew it. She was meant to be his mate.

He didn’t want to rush her, though. Some of his friends had warned him that human females could panic if things moved too fast. They’d been taught to be leery of human males. He’d also seen plenty of their movies, where males did hurtful things to females.

He backed off and broke the kiss but stayed close, locking gazes with her.

“I’m not going to hurt you, Mel. Can you trust me?”

She nodded, a little breathless. “I’m willing to try.”

He smiled. “Good. Now, I need to put a little space between us or we’ll end up in bed already. I’m certain you’d like to eat first, and I have a feeling I won’t want you to get dressed once I get you out of those clothes.”

She blushed, and he found it delightful. He forced himself to back up then take a seat next to her on the couch, keeping a good foot between them. The urge to pull her onto his lap surfaced but he resisted. “Tell me more about you.”

She licked her lips again, turned her head, and met his stare. “What do you want to know?”

“Anything that you want to tell me.”

“I’d like you to kiss me again.”

He didn’t hesitate. He scooted closer and twisted his body enough to cup her cheek with his hand. She lifted her face, and he pressed his mouth to hers in the next instant.

She clutched at him when he deepened the kiss. Desire heated Snow’s blood, and his cock turned rock hard.

So much for slowing things down. He just wanted to get her naked on his bed, explore every inch of her body, and claim her.

He broke the kiss again, panting. “Mel, we need to stop or I’m going to undress you.”

“Dinner comes at six, right?” Her gaze held his, and she was breathing hard, too. “We should probably work up an appetite. I’m all for getting naked.”

He forgot about good intentions and kissed her again.

Chapter Six

Mel caught fire the second Snow took possession of her mouth. She felt as if she were running a fever, and Snow was the cause. He heated her up all over. Nobody had ever kissed her that passionately before. She couldn’t even think, nor did she want to.

For once in her life, she shoved away that voice of reason that warned about being careful. The sensations Snow caused with his tongue made her actually hurt between her thighs. Her clit began to throb. She wanted him inside her so desperately that it became a physical ache.

His skin also felt hot under her hands where she touched him. She restlessly explored, hating the feel of his shirt over his back. She shoved at the material, trying to get it out of the way.

Snow ended the kiss, and she opened her eyes to find him staring at her. They both breathed hard, his face looking a little flush, probably just like hers. The blue of his eyes was captivating. She wanted to stare into them forever and a day.

“Wow,” she got out.

His nostrils flared, and he growled, his gaze lowering between them to where her spread thighs and his groin were wedged together. She figured out quickly what he was smelling. It was her. She was so turned-on that she had to be soaked.

That was another new thing. No man had ever made her that needy.

“I want you so much. Tell me to stop.”

His voice came out with a bit of a growl to it, making him even sexier. She knew she should take his advice. He was urging her to put on the brakes, slow down what was happening between them.

Instead, she blurted the first thing that came to mind. “It’s our second date.” She sat up and pressed herself against him. “Bed or couch? I don’t care.”

His expression tightened. “I’m trying hard to be good for you. I don’t want to frighten you, Mel. You mean too much to me.”

“I’m not afraid of you.”

“That might change if I get too aroused. Species tend to make a lot of noises that frighten humans. It would kill me inside if I frightened you.”

“Consider me warned, and I don’t scare easily. I want you to be yourself, Snow. I’m way tougher than I look. Don’t hold back. I can handle your sounds.” She smiled. “You’re like chocolate. I can’t resist. Let’s do this…we both want to. The nervousness we feel will only increase with all the sexual tension. It’s like ripping off a bandage. Let’s just get naked together. I’m willing to risk it, even if it’s awkward.”

“Why would it be?” He cocked his head.

Her gaze ran down his body. “You’re like a fitness model or something, Snow. Your muscles have muscles.” She waved a hand down her own body. “Nobody has ever asked me to do a porno movie, despite me tormenting my mama about it. You’re hot—and I’m average. I’m okay with that. It’s not like I have low self-esteem, but I’m a realist. You could literally have anyone.”

“Porno movie?” His eyebrows arched.

“Sex video. Whatever you want to call it. Directors weren’t beating down my door. Not that I wanted them to, but you know what I mean.”

He looked confused.

“Maybe you don’t.” She tried to think of how to word it better. “Super-attractive women get offers to star in sex movies. It’s not exactly a respected profession. Anyway, no one would ever approach me to do something like that. I just don’t want you to be disappointed because I don’t have firm muscles, and I kind of have a rounded stomach. Don’t look at my butt too closely, either. I’ve got some flab thanks to my love of pie and chips. I’m not going to look like those lingerie models do in ads. That’s all I’m saying.”

He grinned. “Good. They look as if they are starved and too skinny. I never think about sex when I see them. I wonder why no male is feeding them more.”

She laughed, relaxing. “I want to buy them a big bacon cheeseburger and an extra-large plate of fries.”

“Yes.” He stood and held out his hand. “We’ll take this to my bed. I want to do right by you. Are you certain, Mel?”

She took a deep breath and blew it out. Then she reached out and grasped his hand. “Yes.”

He pulled her to her feet. “I worry about my scars.”

“We went over this. I think they’re sexy.”

“You could have said that to be polite.”

“True.” He walked backward slowly, and she followed him. “But I’m being honest, Snow. Everything about you turns me on. Should I even admit that?”

“Yes. I feel the same way about you. Your blushing intrigues me. You’re doing it now. We’ll be good together. I’ll make sure of it.”

“Did I mention that I really like your confidence?”

He stopped next to the bed. “Cable hasn’t ruined me.”

She laughed, appreciating that he had a sense of humor. It helped her feel more comfortable with him and made him even more appealing. “You’re never going to let me forget that, are you?”

“I thought you were adorable. My goal is to explore every inch of your body and find out what makes you come for me.”

Her nipples reacted, beading under her shirt. The way his voice lowered into a growl made her hotter. Everything about Snow had that effect on her. “That sounds like a perfect plan. I want this to be really great for you, too.”

“It will be. I have you in my bedroom.”

She stared into his eyes. “Naked. Yeah. Let’s take off our clothes.”

“We could go slower.”

“Bandage, remember?” She let him go and bent, removing her shoes. Her socks went next. Snow hadn’t removed anything when she straightened, reaching for her jeans. “What?”

“I worry that you’ll change your mind if you see all of me.”

“Don’t worry about your scars, Snow.”

He nodded. “Let me help you undress. Be careful of your injury.”

She’d forgotten all about the stitches in her arm. Snow gripped the bottom of her shirt and slowly lifted, exposing her skin. Heat fanned her cheeks but she didn’t want to have sex with any clothes between them. He might see her flaws, but she’d get to see his, too.

He threw her shirt on the floor, and his gaze went to the lacy bra that Mary had helped her put on. It was the prettiest one she had. He reached around her, found the hooks, and undid them. He was gentle as he maneuvered the strap over her bandage and bared her breasts.

“Beautiful.”

Her nipples stiffened at his breathless comment. He tossed her bra on top of her shirt and gripped the waist of his tank top, not being slow about tearing it over his head to reveal a muscled, darn-near mouthwatering chest. The only flaws were some burn scars. There had to be almost a dozen of them.

A few were rounded, about the size of a quarter.

She wondered what had made them but didn’t want to kill the mood by asking. Questions could happen later. She wanted to trace every sexy mark on his skin with her fingertips and her tongue. She hadn’t been fibbing about finding his scars attractive.

He dropped to his knees, unfastening her pants before slipping his fingers inside. He tugged them down, being gentle and slow again. He took her panties with the pants, baring her.

Mel was grateful that she’d trimmed her pubic hair and shaved her legs in the shower, since he seemed intent on visually examining every inch. She felt a little self-conscious about her tummy, though. His was ripped, his abs tight. Hers were more on the mushy side.

She stepped out of the material he’d taken to the floor, leaving her completely naked.

Her breath caught when Snow gently caressed a few scars on the side of one of her legs, up on her thigh. “Remember that barn incident?”

“I do. Even your scars are beautiful.”

She grinned. “Thank you.”

“Mel, I’m going to try really hard to not frighten you. I won’t hurt you. Can you remember that?”

“Yes. Why the warning?”

“I want you too much. I’m going to growl and snarl, but it’s normal. Lie on the bed.”

She didn’t turn her back on him, not wanting him to see her butt yet, and took a seat on his bed. He bent down, removing his boots. He jerked them off, revealing that he didn’t wear socks, and strode up the side of the bed. She turned her head and watched as he went to the dresser, opening the top drawer. The box he dug out was sealed, and she realized they were condoms.

He returned to stand in front of her at the end of the bed.

“Never used or opened. I got them new just for us.”

She smiled. He remembered what she’d said. “Thank you.”

He tore at the packaging, ripping the entire top open, and took out a strip. He dropped them on the end of the bed and let the box fall to the floor. “Don’t be afraid.”

“Of what?”

He began to open his jeans. “I’m bigger than most humans, but I promise it won’t hurt when I am finally inside you. You’ll be ready for me, and I’ll be gentle.”

Then he opened his jeans, shoving them down.

She was glad she was already seated when he kicked his pants away and straightened, revealing that he was now totally naked, since he didn’t wear underwear.

“Holy cow.” Her gaze jerked away from his very stiff, thick cock. “Or should I say horse?” She laughed then. “Not really. A horse cock is even larger. Farm girl here. I’ve seen them before. I’m glad you’re not that size, but you have bragging rights for sure.”

He grinned and lowered to his knees. “I’m relieved you’re not afraid.”

“We might need lube at some point, though. You’re kind of huge, and I’m not.”

“Do you trust me, Mel?”

She nodded, staring into his gorgeous blue eyes. “I’m naked on your bed. I wouldn’t be here if I didn’t feel safe with you. This is as vulnerable as a girl gets.”

“I’m honored.”

“I’d be happier if you kissed me.”

He put his hands on her knees. “I won’t enter you yet, but I want to get close.”

She opened her legs and he inched between them. Her hands were trembling a little as she rested them on his broad shoulders. He drew even closer and kissed her again. That helped her forget her worries and focus on what was really important.

Her and Snow were naked…and about to have sex.

She pressed her chest to his, wrapping her arms around his neck. His skin was hot and firm. She loved the feel of him. He tore his mouth away and went for her throat. She arched a little, turning her face away to give him greater access to her neck. She got an idea of what he could do with those fangs of his as he lightly nibbled on the sensitive skin under her ear, his tongue and lips brushing wet kisses lower to her shoulder. Then he cupped his hands around her ribs, just under her breasts, and urged her to lie back. She did.

Snow bent over her, and Mel moaned loudly when he took one of her breasts into his mouth. He sucked on her and used his fangs to send jolts of pleasure throughout her body with the tiny bites. Mel slid her hands into his silky hair to cradle his head.

“That feels so good,” she gasped.

He growled in response and sucked harder. Then he released her breast and rose up. She met his gaze and saw pure passion on his flushed features. “Tell me to slow down. Now.” His voice came out very rough and deep.

She wasn’t afraid. “There’re no brakes on this ride. We’re going all the way.”

He cocked his head a little, and then a smile appeared. “Are you certain, Mel? I’m losing my control.”

“You seem fine to me. I want you, Snow.”

He glanced down where her legs were parted, and his nostrils flared. “Slap me to get my attention if you want me to stop.”

That was the only warning she got.

He grabbed her thighs, shoved them wider apart, and then his face was there.

He wasn’t gentle. Her eyes widened when she felt his mouth on her clit. He growled, sending vibrations through that sensitive bud that shot straight to her brain. Then he sucked and licked, while continuing to make that growling noise.

Mel arched her back, eyes wide and mouth open.

The sounds that came from her throat should have embarrassed her, but it felt too good. Snow adjusted her thighs, using his hold to push her up the bed, but he kept his mouth locked on her. He pinned her under him firmly, which made her aware that she’d been bucking her hips. Once he got her firmly in one spot, and she couldn’t escape the overwhelming pleasure, it was too much.

A brutal climax tore through her.

Mel struggled to recover, panting, her eyes were closed. Her brain felt a little fried, too. She was certain she’d never come that hard in her entire life. Not even with her vibrator. She opened her eyes and lowered her chin, watching as Snow lifted his face, and their gazes met.

He released her thighs, reached over, and grabbed a condom from where he’d put the packets.

“I want your taste on my tongue more but you need to be very wet for me.”

His voice came out deeper. She forced herself to move and wiggled more up the bed to get in the center of it. Her gaze stayed locked on Snow as he used his teeth to rip open a packet and then rolled a condom over his thick, very hard cock. It was sexy as hell when he climbed up onto the bed after her.

“You look like you’re about to pounce on me.”

He froze, mid stalking crawl toward her.

Mel regretted her thoughtless words. They’d just burst from her mouth. “It’s erotic. Not a bad thing. I swear.” She reached for him. “I want you.”

He still hesitated.

“Don’t hold back on me, Snow. This is who you are. I want it all.”

He came closer. She spread her legs and waited for him to maneuver over her. She gently put her hands on his shoulders and pulled him closer. He lowered as she lifted her legs, wrapping them around his waist when he settled between her thighs.

“In me,” she urged.

He reached between them, and she tried to relax. She’d never been with someone his size. It was a turn-on, as much as it was intimidating.

Snow adjusted his cock and it brushed against her slit. He lined them up and kept his gaze locked with hers. She liked that about him. Snow was making sure she was okay with everything he did. It spoke volumes about what an amazing man he was.

He pushed against her slightly, and her body resisted a little at first because his cock was wide. But she wiggled her hips and helped. Then he was in. Just barely…but they fit.

He released his shaft and used that arm to brace his upper body. He seemed careful to keep a lot of his weight off her, which she appreciated. He was probably a good hundred pounds heavier. She felt small under him.

He gently pushed in deeper. Her body gave for him.

“That feels so good…”

Sweat beaded on his brow. “You’re tight. I don’t want to hurt you.”

“Women stretch, Snow. We have babies.”

She instantly regretted saying that. It wasn’t sexy.

“Sorry. We do, though. Kiss me.”

He took her mouth in a heated kiss, and she moaned against his tongue. Then he sank into her deeper. It felt amazingly good. She adjusted her legs a little higher around his waist. It opened her more to him. Snow took advantage by pushing into her farther. He paused there, slightly withdrew, then slowly drove in again.

Mel moaned against his tongue and clung to his shoulders. He did feel amazing. Big, but there was no pain. He began to slowly roll his hips, making her ache with the way it rubbed his cock inside her. She had to break the kiss when he picked up the pace, fearing she’d bite him. It was that great.

“Snow,” she moaned. She moved her hips with him. “Don’t stop!”

He buried his face in her throat and snarled. Then he began to fuck her faster and deeper and harder. She cried out, her fingernails digging into his skin. It felt like his body was made for her. It was a crazy thought but nothing had ever felt better.

He kept going until she was crying out his name, her mind blown again as another climax struck. It was less brutal but still intense. Snow bit her shoulder with his fangs but he didn’t break the skin. He groaned and thrust in deep. His body shook over hers, and she clung to him. Then she felt pressure inside, as if he were getting bigger.

He released her with his teeth and panted. “Hold still, sweet. Don’t panic.”

He had her pinned under his body. The pressure increased, and she opened her eyes, meeting his. “What’s happening? Is your, um, dick getting bigger?”

It felt as if his cock now had a heartbeat. She wasn’t imagining that throbbing.

“I’m canine, Mel. I’m locked inside you. It’s normal. Am I hurting you? Is it too much? You’re so very tight.”

“I’m okay. You mean you get off and then swell?”

He nodded. “I planned to warn you about, but we didn’t go slow enough to talk you through it stage by stage.”

She bit her lip, letting what he’d said roll around in her head. It stunned her a little, but she shouldn’t have been surprised. New Species were human and animal. It made sense that not only would they have traits of both that could be seen externally, but also internally. She knew dogs could get locked together after sex. “Got it. You have the same problem as real dogs.”

A flash of what she thought was pain crossed his handsome face. She tried to relax her body more, even though she already felt almost boneless after the amazing sex they’d just had. She released his shoulders and cupped his face.

“Full dogs. Sorry. You’re definitely real. I’m ruining this moment. I knew I’d screw up by saying something wrong.”

Surprise widened his eyes. “You’re not. You haven’t.”

The pressure inside her eased. “Good. I don’t want to mess what we have up by putting my foot in my mouth.”

Snow gently withdrew. “I have to take care of this condom. We had classes on that. I’ll be right back.”

She released him with regret. He extracted himself from between her thighs and rolled away, getting off the bed. He walked to the bathroom and flipped on the light. She could see more scars on his back, some on his muscular butt, and a few more on the backs of his thighs.

He closed the door between them.

Mel blinked back tears and sat up. “Way to blow it, numbskull,” she whispered to herself.

Chapter Seven

Snow removed the condom, threw it in the trash, and began to wash his hands. He stared at his reflection in the mirror above the counter. He wanted to kick his own ass. The classes he’d taken had taught him that he needed to prepare a human female for what happened with canines. Touching Mel had made him forget all that.

Sharing sex with her had been fantastic. He’d come so hard it had left him mentally stunned. It hadn’t helped that she’d been so tight. He’d battled not to lose his seed before he brought her to release first. The second her muscles had clamped down around his shaft, milking him, he’d totally lost it. Then the swelling had begun.

He’d seen the confusion and alarm on her face. So much for trying to downplay how different he was from human males. His body had betrayed him.

A light tapping on the bathroom door startled him, and he realized he was still standing at the sink, letting the faucet run. He turned the water off and reached for a towel to dry his hands. He opened the door and there stood Mel, peering up at him with worry on her delicate features. It showed in her eyes, too.

“I’m so sorry. I didn’t mean to make you feel bad. I was just surprised.”

“I should have warned you, Mel.”

She put her hands on him. He loved her light touches as she caressed his chest. Mel smiled. “That was the best sex ever. So what if you locked us together? It’s not a big deal. I know what to expect next time. You didn’t hurt me, and bonus, I know you got off. Sometimes it’s hard to tell with guys.”

Her words confused him.

“Sometimes not, if they sound like a pig that’s got his snout stuck in a fence.” A blush flared in her cheeks. “Forget I said that last part. I’m so not cool. You could have done way better than picking me.”

He reached for her and pulled her closer, enjoying holding her. “No, Mel. You are the best.”

She smiled. “Really? Even though my mouth blew it? I shouldn’t talk sometimes.”

“I want to hear everything you have to say.”

“Are we okay?” Worry showed in her eyes again.

“We are.” He lowered his head and brushed his mouth against her inviting lips. Then he straightened. “We should put something on. Our food will be delivered soon.”

“Okay.” She didn’t move away from him, though. “Snow?”

“Yes?”

“I accept you just the way you are. I want you to know that.”

The last bit of tension left his body. “Thank you.”

“Everyone needs to be accepted for who they are. It should be a given.” She slid her hands over his shoulders and neck, cupping his face. “I am sorry for the dog comment. That must have hurt your feelings, but I didn’t mean to.”

“You didn’t. I promise, Mel.”

She smiled again. “I want to do what happened on your bed again. A lot. You’re super great at sex. Cable definitely hasn’t ruined you.”

He burst into a laugh and tightened his hold around her waist.

Her expression grew curious. “Is that why you pinned me down so tight after you got me off? Were you thinking I’d flip out?”

“I’ve been warned by friends who have shared sex with females of your kind. They said that a few of those females panicked when they began to swell. It caused them both pain when the women tried to get away. I didn’t want to risk you getting hurt.”

“I promise to hold still afterward.” Her smile returned. “I had no wish to move. It was that wonderful.” She released his face and tapped her temple. “Mind blown. Total wow.”

He chuckled. Mel amused him.

“You should come with a warning about your mouth, too.”

He arched his eyebrows, wondering what she meant.

“You have mad oral sex skills.”

He laughed louder that time. She made him feel happy. “You taste delicious.”

A blush stained her cheeks. “I’ll take your word for it. I plan to return the favor.”

He shook his head. “You can’t. Females don’t give male Species oral sex.”

That seemed to shock her.

“I wore a condom to contain my seed. Others have told me what happened when they allowed a female to go down on them. It’s not something I will let you do.”

“Did your friends get bitten or something? You’re pretty big down there. I can see teeth being a problem. Or was it a fitting issue? If so, don’t worry. I’ve been told lots of time that I have a big mouth.” She grinned.

He had to stifle a laugh. “No. It’s that we ejaculate seed very hard…and a lot of it. Females often choke, and it can cause them harm.”

Her eyes widened.

“We use special condoms because of it.”

“Special?”

“Thicker than normal. Tear-proof. There were some issues with that because we shoot so hard. The tips of some of the condoms didn’t withstand it.”

“Wow. Okay.” She seemed to think that over. “Thicker condoms must also mean less feeling for you during sex, doesn’t it?”

He shrugged. “It was a little odd to feel contained, but I have no complaints.”

“I went to my girlie-bits doctor six months ago because I needed a refill on my birth control pills. They always run tests… I’m healthy, Snow. I mean, I don’t have anything. You know.” She blushed. “Clean bill of health. Have you been check over?”

“Are you asking me if I have any sexually transmitted diseases?”

She nodded.

“Species are immune to most things, including those.”

“Then we don’t need to use condoms. I can’t get pregnant.”

He stilled, all dreams of having a future son with her instantly dashed. “You’re sterile?” Guilt swiftly followed. He was afraid he’d make Mel feel bad, and that was the last thing he wanted. “It doesn’t matter.” And it didn’t. He may have wanted to become a father, but his feelings for Mel were more important. She was his female, and he wanted to keep her.

She frowned. “No. I’m not sterile. Everyone knows New Species can’t have babies. But it’s okay. I insisted on condoms because of STDs but you just told me that’s not a problem. So, after we eat, ditch the condoms.” She smiled. “I trust that you’re healthy.”

He wanted to growl in frustration. He wasn’t allowed to tell her the truth—that New Species could get human females pregnant. She wasn’t officially his mate, even if he wished she were. “We should get dressed before our food arrives. Borrow one of my shirts. I’ll get you one.” He glanced down at her breasts, feeling his cock begin to swell.

Mel smiled. “I feel that. You are big. Are you sure I can’t go down on you?”

“I won’t risk choking you, Mel.”

“You could tell me before you blow, and I’ll pull back.”

His cock swelled more, desire firing in his veins. “Food, Mel. Don’t tease me.”

“It’s only teasing if I don’t really mean it.” She winked. “I want to see if you fit in other places.” She licked her lips.

He groaned in frustration, wanting to give it a try but knowing he’d lose control. “We’ll discuss this later.” He released her waist and gripped her hips, gently giving her a push. “Food first.”

“Okay.” She let him go and started to turn around, but then seemingly changed her mind, backing away instead. She looked over her shoulder to see where she was going.

“Why are you doing that?” He slowly stalked after her.

“I told you about my butt. I look way better from the front.”

He lunged, grabbed her, and lifted her into his arms.

She gasped. “What are you doing?”

He spotted no fear in her eyes. Just surprise. He gently dropped her onto the bed and flipped her to stomach. She tried to roll to her back but he pinned her and put his hand on her rounded ass. It was a nice one, very pale. He cupped it and squeezed. “I like this. It’s soft.”

She laughed, wiggling under him. “I have cellulite. Don’t look!”

He squeezed the globe of her cheek harder. “I like how this looks and feels. I see no problem here, Mel.”

“I have a lot of padding, that’s for sure.”

“Your ass is perfect. You accept me as I am, correct? I accept you as you are, Mel. I see no flaws.”

She stilled her wiggling and twisted her head, peering at him. “Point made.”

He reluctantly released her and got up off the bed, holding his hand out to her. “Food is coming.”

“Right.” She took his hand and let him pull her up. Then he turned, walked to one of his dressers, and removed a clean T-shirt. She took it. He drew on a pair of sweatpants, regretting giving her something to cover her body. His shirt fit her as if it were one of those nightgowns that females enjoyed wearing, falling to her thighs.

“I’m going to use your bathroom real quick.”

He watched her go, and wondered what he’d do after they ate and returned to his bed. He needed to use a condom to prevent Mel from getting pregnant, but she’d wonder why after giving him permission not to.

Mel was in the beginning stages of going into heat. The scent wasn’t there yet to tip off other males, but he’d tasted her. That’s why he’d lost control the second he’d put his mouth between her thighs, getting her off fast. The urge to mount her had been overpowering. Instincts had kicked in to breed her until his son was firmly planted inside her body.

“Damn,” he muttered. He wanted to trust Mel with the truth, but the NSO expected him to never reveal that their males could have children with human females until they were officially mated.

He heard someone knock on the door in the other room and fled his bedroom, hoping Mel wouldn’t come out until after their meal had been delivered. The human kitchen staff stayed on the lower floor. It would most likely be another Species male bringing their dinner. He felt territorial over his female and didn’t want anyone to see her bared legs.

He unlocked the door and forced a smile at Ascend. The big male had pushed a cart to his home.

“Thank you for bringing it up.”

The male sniffed, his gaze scanning the living room at Snow’s back.

Snow stepped into the hallway. “Is there a problem?”

“You have a female in your home.”

“I do.”

Ascend met his gaze. “You’re fortunate.”

“How did they talk you into delivering food?”

“I ended my patrol shift and entered the kitchen right as your food was finished. I wondered if you were injured, but the human cooks didn’t know. Only that you’d ordered this food to be brought up. That’s not like you. You always share meals with the others. I offered to bring it to you. Now I know why you aren’t eating downstairs. You have a female you’re sharing sex with.”

“Thank you. That was kind of you to bring the cart.”

The male nodded and walked off. Snow grabbed the handle on the cart and pulled it inside, closing and locking the door. He pushed it toward the couch, planning on setting the food on the coffee table. It would be a comfortable place to share a meal.

*

Mel left the bathroom and went in search of Snow, since he wasn’t in the bedroom anymore. He had just offloaded a few covered dishes onto the coffee table and was transferring silverware and napkins next. She rushed forward. “Let me help.”

He finished before she reached him and smiled. “It’s all done. We just need to sit and eat.”

He pulled off the domes to reveal two large platters with barbecue ribs, what appeared to be golden-brown diced potatoes, and corn on the cobs. There were even dinner rolls.

Mel’s stomach rumbled when the scent hit her. It smelled delicious enough to make her realize just how hungry she felt. He placed the domes on the tray and took a seat on the couch.

She sat next to him. “This looks so good.”

“The NSO hires excellent cooks to feed us. I wasn’t sure what you’d drink.” He motioned to the cart; the under tray held an assortment of individual milk cartons, various sodas, and juices. “What we don’t drink will go in my fridge. What would you like?”

“Milk, please.”

He sat nearest to the cart, so he passed one over to her. It reminded her of being in high school a little, only the containers were larger. She opened it and took a sip. Then she went to reach for her fork, which he’d laid out with a cloth napkin next to a platter-sized plate. “They sure give big portions.”

He chuckled. “Species eat a lot. Don’t worry, Mel. I know you can’t eat that much as a female. Leftovers can go in the fridge, too.”

She grinned. “This is perfect.”

He met her gaze, watching her closely. “You mean that.”

“I do.”

“I worried this wouldn’t impress you. I know a little about human dates from watching television. Should I have lit candles?”

“No. I’m not big on that stuff. I have great company, what smells like delicious food, and we’re both half-dressed so I get to ogle your chest.” She winked. “Perfect.”

He grinned back. Then she dug in.

The ribs were to die for. She moaned in pleasure. Whoever had created the barbecue sauce was a master at getting sweet down perfect. Not too much but just right.

A low growl came from Snow, and she glanced at his lap. The bulge there couldn’t be missed. It amused her that he was turned on by the sounds she made while eating.

She ate until she couldn’t take another bite and wiped her fingers on the napkin.

Snow, meanwhile, could really put food away. With his fangs, he could strip the meat off the bone easily. Part of her envied him.

He noticed her watching him and turned his head, going still.

She grinned. “Keep going. I’m just enjoying the view.”

“Are my table manners offending you?”

“Nope. Not at all. I like a man with a healthy appetite. You’re taking down both of those entire racks of ribs they gave you. I could barely eat half of one. Feel free to take my leftovers.”

He hesitated but finished his food. Then he used his cloth napkin to clean his mouth and fingers, sitting back on the couch. It was more of a sprawl. Mel appreciated the view of him relaxed. He had the best chest and abs. She reached out, running her hand over his stomach. The bulge in his sweats was still present.

A low growl came from him. “What are you doing, Mel?”

She got an idea, and slid off the couch, pushed the coffee table away, and got between his spread legs. On her knees, she reached for the waist of his sweatpants.

He grabbed her wrists before she could tug them down enough to free his cock.

“No.”

It hurt her feelings but she tried to hide it. “I just thought I’d play with you.” Heat infused her cheeks.

“I don’t want to choke you, Mel. I really would. As much as I hope you consider me as normal as possible, in some ways, I’m not.”

“Normal is overrated,” she tried to joke. It fell flat when he just intently stared at her without a hint of a smile.

“I’d love to feel your mouth on me there. I won’t deny that. But I am different in this regard. That’s one thing I can’t hide. Not only do I swell when I ejaculate my seed, but it comes out in abundance.”

“I’d like to see that.”

She’d clearly surprised him. His mouth opened then closed.

“Do you ever jack off?”

“Often.”

She liked that he was honest. Most men she’d known denied doing that. “I get myself off, too. I even own a bullet.”

“Is that a sex toy?”

“Yes. It’s a tiny vibrator with different speeds. I use it against my clit to get myself off. I don’t own any dildos. Those are sex toys that resemble penises.” She knew she was blushing again.

“I’ve heard of vibrators. You won’t need one anymore.” A smile curved his lips. “You have me.”

She remembered well that his mouth vibrated when he growled going down on her. “Snow? I’m super turned-on right now.”

“Me too.” He straightened and pulled her to her feet, leading her into the bedroom.

She was happy to follow. He released her at the bed and grabbed the waist of his sweatpants, shoving them off. She didn’t need to be told to remove his shirt. She tossed it aside. Snow’s body took her breath away. His cock was rock hard once again, and he looked gorgeous as he approached. She climbed on the mattress and got in the middle.

He climbed on the bed after her and sat on his legs at the end of it. Then, to her surprise, he reached for the condoms near him. He removed one from the strip and tore open the edge.

“Snow? You don’t have to use one.”

He met her gaze as he rolled the condom over his cock. “I need to.”

Maybe he didn’t trust her when she said she was STD-free.

He seemed to see something on her face and instantly came down over her, pinning her before she could react. His face hovered over hers, their gazes locked together. It surprised her but she wasn’t afraid. She knew Snow wouldn’t hurt her.

He cleared his throat, his expression tense. “Why do you look pained? Please tell me, Mel.”

“I was cleared by my doctor. I would never lie about something like that. I don’t have any STDs. I’ve always been super careful.”

He shook his head. “That’s not it. I trust you. I believe you.” He hesitated, searching her eyes with his. “Can I share something very secret with you, Mel? Promise me you won’t ever tell anyone?”

She nodded. “I promise.”

“There is a risk of pregnancy.”

She gaped at him, stunned.

“We aren’t exactly sure how Mercile created us,” he rushed on. “They destroyed all the evidence of what they’d done when they were raided and we were freed. None of us have our medical histories. What if I’m more human than canine? They gave us a lot of drugs that could have harmed us, but we weren’t all given the same things. They did various testing on Species. Nothing was routine. Please don’t ask me to explain more than that.

“I put on a condom to protect you from the chance of pregnancy. Not out of distrust of your word. But no one can ever know that. We have enemies who would be highly riled if they thought it was possible we could have young. Mercile tested dangerous drugs on us all the time. They abused us. Now, we’re free and healthy, and pregnancy is a possible risk that has been discussed among the doctors we hired. That’s why I put on a condom.”

She nodded. “Okay…that makes sense.”

He looked relieved. “You can’t tell anyone, Mel.”

“I understand. I swear I won’t. Has that happened? I mean…you know.”

He hesitated. “You’re the only human I’ve shared sex with. Our doctors advised us to wear condoms because of the possibility. That is all I can tell you.”

She reached up and stroked his chest. She loved feeling the heat of him. Then she blurted the first thing that came to mind. “I read a story about pandas and how difficult it is to breed them in captivity. It usually doesn’t work because they’re stressed from being watched all the time and living in a habitat instead of being in the wild. Maybe that’s why no New Species ever had babies when you were locked up at Mercile, and why your doctors think it could be possible now.”

Snow nodded. “Maybe.”

Mel felt happy for him. “That’s great, right? I really hope it happens. You know, that New Species are one day able to have babies.”

“Would you like to have young, Mel?”

“Sure. Who wouldn’t? But I’m good if it never happens. I can barely support myself. I can’t imagine trying to raise a baby on what I make.”

He leaned in closer and kissed her. She stopped thinking. All she wanted was Snow inside her. She didn’t even need foreplay. Just his kiss and the memory of what it felt like before was enough to make her wrap her legs around his waist and start writhing against him.

He broke the kiss. “I want to go down on you and taste you again.”

“Later,” she panted. “Inside me now.”

He complied, and she moaned as he entered her body. Snow felt so good, and he moved slowly this time, making love to her. She could feel her heart getting addicted to him, right along with her body.

Chapter Eight

Mel couldn’t stop thinking about Snow. It might have been only yesterday morning since he’d returned her to town, but she missed him. Saying goodbye and watching him leave in the SUV had been difficult. Part of her had wanted to yell out to him to take her with him. She’d refrained.

Snow had actually attempted to talk her into just moving in with him, but she’d needed to go home to think on that further. That was a life-changing decision, not one to make before weighing the pros and cons.

She knew she was already falling in love with Snow. No one had ever made her feel as much as he did. It was as if she had no barriers against him to protect her heart. She’d been sorely tempted to throw caution to the wind by agreeing. To live with him sounded wonderful.

It was also crazy. She was aware of that. Who moved in with a guy after one night?

No one. Which meant she needed to go home. Plus, the diner would reopen soon. She had bills to pay, and Joel would have a fit if she just up and quit without notice. That would be a crappy thing to do to the man who had given her a job when she’d first moved into town. He depended on her and Mary the most. Everyone else only worked at the diner part time.

The night she’d spent with Snow had been remarkable. He made her laugh, the sex had been the best thing ever, and sleeping in his arms…nothing had felt so right before. Even waking up next to him had felt incredible. That would likely have been because Snow was going down on her when she woke. He’d gotten her off and then made love to her.

That’s what she called it. It wasn’t just sex. He made eye contact with her constantly, touched her as if she were precious to him, and made sure she always got off before he did.

It had been lonely and depressing to sleep in her bed the night before in comparison. She also really needed to get a cell phone. Snow had wanted to call her. She’d been embarrassed to admit he could only reach her at the diner. If she had to be away from him, she at least wanted to hear his voice.

Only a day had passed, and she missed him and couldn’t get him out of her thoughts. What was he doing at that moment? Was he thinking about her? Missing her, too?

“Earth to Mel,” Mary said, startling her.

She looked at her best friend. “Sorry.”

“Let me guess. Snow?”

She nodded.

“It would be insane to say yes to moving in with a man after one night of sex, Mel.” Her friend grinned though. “Even if he’s some super-stud. He really got you off that many times?”

Mel nodded again, almost regretting sharing some of the intimate details with her best friend. She’d wanted Mary’s advice, though, and she had to be totally honest to make her understand why she was so torn about not staying at Reservation to live with Snow.

“Spend your off days with him. Take time to get to know him better. I’ll fully support you if you want to move in with Snow after a few months.”

“How long did you date your ex before you let him move into your place?”

Mary grumbled. “A week. See how bad that turned out?”

“He was a cheater though.”

“And you don’t know what kind of guy Snow really is until you date him longer. Learn from my mistakes.”

Mel bit her lip. “Snow is not just any guy, Mary. He’s a New Species. That makes him pretty different.” She held her best friend’s gaze. “Do you know what my last thought was before I drifted off to sleep with him?”

Mary shook her head.

“I’m right where I belong. I didn’t want to leave him, either. It was hard saying goodbye. I wanted to climb right back into that vehicle and have him take me back with him. I miss his already and can’t stop thinking about him.”

Mary frowned. “Don’t jump into something until you get a better idea of exactly what you’re getting into. That feeling was probably caused by hormones or endorphins after all that great sex. Or is it euphoria? Whatever. I’m trying to look out for you. That’s what besties do. Now…the lunch crowd should come in soon. Is it okay with you if I take my break first?”

“Sure.”

Mel watched her disappear into the kitchen and went to work checking to make sure all the tables, the counters, and seats had been wiped clean. There was never a large rush for lunch at the diner during the week, but sometimes they’d get about thirty people. In a small town, that seemed like a lot.

The door opened, and the Nelson couple came in with their two small children. She got them seated in a corner booth, gave the kids crayons with a few coloring pages to keep them occupied, and fetched their drinks. Hal, from the post office, arrived next.

Within five minutes more of the seats filled with other employees from local businesses. Mel was glad when Mary returned, helping her pass out their food and refill drinks.

Another regular customer showed up outside the diner, supported by crutches, trying to get the glass door open. Her foot and lower leg were in a medical boot.

Mel rushed forward. “What happened to you, Mitzy?” She held the door open wide.

“My shoelaces snagged on the bottom of the seat while getting out of my truck and I fell out, believe it or not.”

Mel helped her get settled at the counter, since a barstool would be easier to sit on than tangling with a bench seat. “I’m so sorry.” Her gaze inspected the woman. “Is it sprained?”

“I fractured my ankle. That’s what the doctor said. I feel stupid.”

“You shouldn’t.”

“I was talking on my cell and not paying attention. Then I was on my ass on the pavement, in pain. I’m surprised you didn’t hear about it when it happened evening before last.”

“The diner was closed for a few days.” She wasn’t about to admit she hadn’t been in town, but at Reservation. “I guess I missed out on the gossip.”

Mitzy snorted. “You’re the only one then. Everyone else has teased me a bit. Nancy bought me a pair of slip-on canvas shoes and told me to stick to ones without ties. Can you have Joel make me a special egg sandwich?”

“Of course. Cheese, mushrooms, and bacon cooked into the eggs, right?”

Mitzy grinned. “You got it. Don’t forget the extra mayo on toasted wheat bread.”

“Sure thing. Fries?”

“I’m in the mood for potato salad today.”

“I’ll put the order in and bring your sweet tea. Extra sugar.”

“You’re a doll, honey.”

Mel gave the order to Joel, fixed Mitzy her drink, and placed it in front of her.

“Does your apartment allow dogs?”

Mel shook her head. “Um, no. The owner was clear about no pets.”

“Damn. Someone abandoned two puppies yesterday. I’m looking for homes for them. They aren’t what anyone would consider overly cute. I’m worried no one will want to adopt them. We have enough dogs waiting for homes already.”

“Why don’t you take a picture of them, and I’ll tape it on the window next to the door? You also might want to do that at the post office. Everyone goes in there at least once a week. The grocery store, too.”

“Most businesses won’t allow that.”

Mel winked. “Joel avoids customers by never leaving the kitchen. Us waitresses handle everything from cleaning to locking and unlocking the front doors. He won’t even know. Bring me a picture.”

“You really are a doll, Mel. I’ll do that.”

“What about a website? Mary swears by the internet. Does animal control have one of those?”

“It sure does, but not many people visit the site. The only thing anyone’s been interested in lately is the job listing we’ve posted.”

That surprised her. “Someone quit?”

“Boomer did. I knew that shithead wouldn’t last long. He was Paul’s cousin, and he bitched nonstop about the calls he was sent on.” Mitzy narrowed her eyes. “Hey, can you drive a pickup truck? You lived on a farm, right? Are you good with animals? The pay is probably better than waiting tables.”

Mel threw up a hand and grinned. “I was on the receiving end of Boomer’s complaints when he ate here. No way. I’m not going to become a roadkill scooper, herd cows back into pastures when a fence goes down, or search for Mrs. John’s dog that likes to run off. She really should put up a fence in her backyard, or at least keep it on a leash when it needs to go outside. I heard it takes off almost every darn morning.”

“You really should think about coming to work for animal control.”

“No good prospects have applied?”

“Old Ned wants the job. The other is some lady from Los Angeles. She’s interested, but I figure she can’t be serious. Who would purposely move here?”

Mel raised her hand again. “I did.” She decided to change the subject. “Didn’t Ned lose his driver’s license after he tried to park on the sidewalk in front of the post office? I heard he got arrested for drunk driving.”

“Yes. He thinks if we hire him, Sheriff Cooper will just turn a blind eye if he’s behind the wheel of one of our trucks.”

“What an idiot. Sherriff Cooper would never do that.”

“Damn straight. Ned would just get drunk and crash our truck. And we’d be liable. No way in hell is that going to happen. Our budget is tight enough, and we don’t get many donations.”

Mel spotted a stranger entering the diner. “I have to go. I’ll be back with your order.” She approached the older man with a cane and smiled. “Hello. Counter, table, or booth?”

He glanced around through his dark sunglasses, not taking them off. “Counter.”

She grabbed him a menu and followed his limping gait to the counter, putting the menu in front of him. “What will you have to drink?”

“Coffee. Black.”

“Sure thing. Be right back.” She got him his coffee, dropped off Mitzy’s food, and checked on her other customers. Then she approached the counter and pulled out her pad and pen from the apron tied around her waist. “What would you like to eat?”

His chin rose, and she stared into his dark sunglasses. “Do you get many New Species in here?”

Mel instantly tensed. He didn’t look like one of the nosey reporters who showed up from time to time. Most of them were younger. This guy reminded her of a grumpy grandpa. “Look, mister. We serve food here. Not gossip about our neighbors. If you want to know about the folks at Reservation, they have people there to ask.”

His hand on the counter fisted briefly. But then he flattened it next to his coffee. “I see. I came by yesterday but this establishment was closed. Why was that?”

She tried hard to mask her expressions. Had he heard about the shooting? She went with the story the sheriff had come up with, which she knew had been spread around town. “The fridge broke down and we were closed for a couple days until the owner could get it fixed. A part had to be sent for.”

“That caused the whole place to close down?” He scowled.

“Where do you think we store our meat? The fridge. We couldn’t serve our famous bacon cheeseburgers since everything went bad. Joel had to toss everything inside and order new. But we’re good to go now. Do you want to try one of those burgers? They’re delicious.”

“No. I’d like to talk to the other waitress.” He turned his head, seeming to watch Mary.

“She’s super shy,” Mel lied. “She doesn’t like to talk to strangers. I’m the one who handles those. No offense, mister, but we’re a small town with lots of quirks. What do you want to talk to her about? You can ask me instead.”

He jerked his head back her way.

She sighed when he said nothing, guessing the answer. “She’s the last person to ask about the New Species. I can promise you that she’s never talked to one. I think you’re supposed to call the NSO if you want an interview with them. Shouldn’t you know that if it’s your job?”

His mouth firmed into a tight scowl. “There wasn’t a problem here a few days ago?”

Fear whipped through her. Had someone blabbed? “Just the fridge going down, mister. It was a mess clearing out all that rotten food. That was a problem. Now it’s fixed, and we got a new food delivery. Are you going to order something to eat or do you need a few more minutes?”

“I had a tip from a man who called me to say there may have been a shooting in this diner.”

“A shooting?” She gasped, maybe a bit too much. “Definitely not! That would be the talk of the town if something like that happened. Small town. Hello, there’s no secrets.” She was glad she’d worn a long-sleeve shirt that hid her bandaged arm. “The only thing that’s happened recently is Mitzy over there breaking her ankle falling out of a truck.” She motioned down the counter.

He seemed to continue to watch her, but Mel wasn’t sure with those dark sunglasses hiding his eyes.

“Give me a yell when you’re ready to order, mister.”

Mel fled, making the rounds to refill drinks and take more orders from incoming customers. She watched as the stranger approached Mitzy. She wanted to get closer to eavesdrop, to see if he was grilling her about the New Species, but she didn’t dare.

He only stayed with Mitzy for a few minutes before he limped out of the diner, leaving a dollar next to his half-finished coffee.

She approached Mitzy. “What did that guy say to you?”

The older woman had an amused glint in her eyes. “He was a reporter, wasn’t he?”

“I think so. He was nosey about the New Species. I shut him down.”

“He wanted to know how I hurt my ankle and why the diner was closed. Then the old fool asked if I’d heard about anyone being shot! I laughed in his face. He must work for one of those gossip rags. They’re really reaching now. I told him we’re hiring at animal control if he wants a real job.”

Mel forced a smile. “I wouldn’t wish that on you. He was kind of rude.”

“No shit.” Mitzy pulled out cash. “Can you be a dear?”

Mel nodded and took the money to the register, rang up Mitzy’s lunch bill, and brought her change. “You take it easy. I hope you find someone to replace Boomer soon.”

“Me too. Sheriff Cooper said he’d find us a volunteer while I’m out of commission. I’m kind of afraid who he’ll dig up, since you know how he is.”

Mel laughed. “I sure do. Someone will do something to get into trouble and he’ll give them a choice of jail or community service. You’ll get your help soon. No one wants to sit in one of those tiny cells.”

She went back to work after collecting the tip Mitzy left…but her gaze kept returning to the windows of the diner. The old reporter didn’t return. She hoped he’d left town. Part of her wondered if she should alert Sheriff Cooper about him, but then more customers came in, it got too busy, and the time flew by. Before she knew it, her shift ended and Tina, her replacement, walked in.

Mel removed her apron and clocked out in the kitchen. Mary already waited at the back door, avoiding the woman who’d slept with her ex-boyfriend. They walked out to their cars together.

“Didn’t you want to say hi to Tina?” she teased.

Mary shot her a middle finger.

“Do you want to come over tonight? We can watch a movie. I really would enjoy the company.”

Mary unlocked her car door and opened it. “I can’t tonight. My parents came home. Do you want to have dinner with us?”

Mel wasn’t in the mood to listen to her best friend’s parents recount all their latest RV adventures. They usually had a ton of pictures and videos of where they’d visited. It could get boring after an hour or two. “I’ll pass.”

“Lucky you. At least they’re only home for two days this time to do laundry and check up on me. Otherwise known as grill me about my life and remind me that they want grandkids before they die. Like at twenty-six I’m about to become an old maid and my ovaries are going to dry up.”

“Where are they going next?”

“I’ll find out tonight. I get the whole retirement thing, and being able to travel and living what they consider ‘grand adventures.’ It’s just not my thing, though. I can’t imagine being locked up in a small RV for weeks or months at a time. The bathroom is a nightmare. You can sit on the toilet to pee with the sink practically in your lap to brush your teeth, while taking a shower at the same time. They act like that’s a good thing.” Mary shuddered.

Mel smiled, opening her own car door. “It sounds easy to clean.”

“Want to trade parents? Never mind.” Mary grinned. “For a second I forgot about your mama stories.” She waved, got into her car, and backed out of the parking lot.

Mel started her own car after buckling her seat belt and left the diner. It was a short drive home, and once more her thoughts were on Snow. It was tempting to see if the guards at the gate of Reservation would allow her in to see him. Instead, she parked in her spot, climbed out of her car, and walked to her apartment door.

She unlocked her front door, pushed it open, and closed it behind her. It was automatic to twist the deadbolt. Locking doors was one of the first things she’d learned since moving out of her parents’ house. She went to the couch, dropped onto her butt, and lifted her foot to untie her sneakers. Her feet always hurt after her shift. She removed them and her socks, wiggling her toes.

“Be free!”

She smiled, pulled the coffee table closer, and put them up with a sigh. A nice soak in her tub sounded nice, maybe watching a movie on the DVD player and eating a frozen dinner. She planned to do that right after she sat on her butt for a good half hour first.

Snow entered her thoughts yet again. She wondered what he was doing—

Sudden movement out of the corner of her eye had her jerking her head toward the hallway.

A big beefy guy wearing a black ski mask lunged toward her from the direction of her bedroom.

His presence shocked Mel enough to freeze her in place.

The man tried to round the end of the couch to grab her but slammed his knee into the coffee table instead. He grunted, losing his balance, his arms outstretched toward her.

Mel remained frozen in fear.

He fell, landing partly on the couch and partly on the coffee table. The cheap fake wood broke under his weight and her feet hit the carpeted floor.

The guy’s head ended up in her lap, one arm over the front of her legs, his hand by her foot. His other arm had landed on the cushion of the couch behind her.

That jolted her into action.

Some stranger had his face in her lap!

She screamed as he started to move, punching at his head. He turned, his weight shifted, and he slid off the couch onto the broken coffee table. Her legs were pinned between his body and the couch, but she kept punching him, screaming louder.

“Fuck!” He sounded pissed.

He threw his arms up, trying to protect his masked face, and rolled.

The movement freed her legs. She jumped up and turned to run out the door, but just as she twisted the deadbolt, he grabbed her ankle with a gloved hand and gave a mighty jerk.

She fell backward, landing on her ass, on the man’s back.

He grunted, his hold on her ankle loosening enough for her to kick free. She twisted, slid off his bulky body, and grabbed the first thing she could. It was a leg from the cheap coffee table. She rolled and started whacking him in the head again.

“You crazy bitch!” he bellowed, trying to defend his head again.

The cheap wood broke in two, and she ended up with just a piece of it in her hand. She scrabbled backward and got to her feet—accidentally putting him between her and the front door.

He sat up slowly. The mask had dark netting over the eye holes and the one for the mouth. She couldn’t make out anything about him.

She stumbled back farther, hating how small the living space was. She felt trapped in the kitchen now. He could lunge to grab her if she tried to rush to the front door, or even toward her bedroom.

She turned, yanked open the cupboard closest to her and grabbed the plates. She started whipping them at his covered face like frisbees.

He bellowed again, struggling to get to his feet. She grabbed the glasses next, pitching them fast, aiming for his face.

“Get out!”

“You’re coming with me, bitch!”

She grabbed the old toaster off the counter, yanked the cord free from the outlet and screeched, throwing it at him as hard as she could.

The man jerked back, tripped on the broken table, and fell onto her couch again.

Mel ran full speed toward the hallway and made it to her bedroom. She slammed the door, locking it as she threw her body against the surface.

He hit the door hard. Wood cracked.

“Get out! The neighbors heard me screaming,” she yelled. “The police are on their way.”

“You’re going to answer my fucking questions,” he snarled, hitting the door again.

The lock broke and the door pushed in a few inches. She shoved back, desperate enough to find the strength to close it. His heavy weight left suddenly, and Mel sprang back, out of the way.

He hit the door again, expecting resistance—but there was none.

He’d hit hard enough to come barreling in, smashed into the small table she had by her bed before crashing to the floor.

She darted out of her bedroom, down the hall, flinched as she stepped on part of the broken coffee table, but she didn’t trip or slow down. She made it to the front door, grabbed her purse, and yanked the door open.

Mel was panting hard as she ran toward her car. Her neighbors weren’t out there. It was possible they weren’t home, since no one had come rushing to see what was wrong while she’d been screaming and yelling.

She made it to her car and fumbled with her purse for the keys she’d tossed in there earlier.

Noise had her turning her head as her attacker came bursting out of her apartment. He spotted her, and she whimpered, her fingers finding the keys at last. He sped toward her, one hand holding part of his masked face near his cheek.

He was hurt.

That didn’t help ease her terror.

Her car key was the biggest on the ring and, despite her hands shaking, she managed to shove it into the door and heard the lock click. She yanked it open, dove in, and hit the lock after she slammed it closed.

The man reached her car and tried to open the door. She threw her free hand on the steering wheel, pressing on the horn, and didn’t let up as she tried to get the key into the ignition.

She flinched when he punched the window next to her head, but the glass held.

He cursed. “You’re going to answer my fucking questions!” he yelled over the blaring horn, punching the glass again.

She got the key in and twisted. The engine started, and she threw it in reverse, slamming her bare foot on the gas. She was thrown forward from the force of the movement. She backed away from him a good fifty feet and hit the brakes. Incredibly, he stumbled toward her.

She threw it in drive and punched the gas again, gripping the wheel tight.

Her attacker realized she was going to hit him, and he threw his big body out of the way.

She wasn’t even sure if her car hit him or not. She was too flipped out and panicked. She didn’t even stop to leave the parking lot but instead kept her foot down, twisting the wheel hard as she hit the street.

One glance sideways as she drove away showed him picking himself up off the pavement. He was alive.

She wasn’t sticking around. Big fat tears slid down her face, her heart raced, and she was shaking all over. Her foot and hands hurt. Her arm throbbed from where she’d had stitches. It made her wonder if she’d popped them but she wasn’t going to take time to look or check to see if she was bleeding anywhere. Not until she got to the sheriff’s station.

*

Snow shifted his stance as he stood on the wall, ignoring the sweat that tickled down his back. He didn’t mind wall duty but it bored him. He’d been assigned to overlook a section that revealed miles of woods. Only the wind in the trees and an occasional animal moved. He glanced at the watch on his wrist, checking the time. Fifteen more minutes and he’d call in to Security again.

His radio crackled. “Snow? Do you hear me?”

He unclipped it from his belt and lifted it to his mouth. “I’m here, Tiger.”

“You’re being relieved. Come to Security.”

He frowned. “Why? I’m on duty for three more hours. What’s wrong?”

“We couldn’t reach you on your phone. Sherriff Cooper called. Don’t be alarmed, but your female is with him. She’s unharmed.”

Snow tensed. “Mel? What happened? Is she hurt?”

“I said she’s unharmed. Just come to Security and I’ll fill you in. The female is safe. Your replacement should be there soon. There’s no need to wait.”

He clipped his radio back to his belt, ran to where the rope hung, and quickly climbed down. He sprinted to the Jeep as soon as he reached the ground. Worry had him driving faster than he usually did.

What had happened to Mel? Why would she be with Sherriff Cooper? Had she been in a car accident? Was the diner targeted again by humans? The worst scenarios played through his head.

He parked at Security, barely remembering to turn off the engine before jumping out of the vehicle.

Tiger exited the building before he reached the door, meeting him halfway. “Your female is fine.”

“What happened?” He tore off his helmet, gripping it to his chest with both hands.

“A masked male broke into her apartment. She got away from him and isn’t hurt.”

A snarl tore from him. “I’m going to Mel.”

Tiger lifted his hands, palms out. “Easy, Snow. I understand. I have a mate. A team should be here soon to escort you. I need to ask you a few questions first while we wait. They will be here fast. I promise.”

He had a few questions of his own. “Are you certain she’s unharmed? Absolutely sure?”

“I don’t want to panic you.”

“Tell me,” Snow snarled.

Tiger took a deep breath and blew it out. “Sheriff Cooper said she fought the male off when he tried to grab her, but she wasn’t severely injured. She used her fists to punch the male, so they are a little tender, and so are her feet. She was barefoot when the attack took place. At most, she’s going to have bruising. She refused medical attention when offered to be taken to a hospital, swearing she didn’t need to go. Sheriff Cooper said she’s mostly shaken up but fine.”

Snow shook with fury.

A male had attacked Mel? She’d had to fight a male? He wanted to kill someone. She was a little thing. No male should ever try to harm her.

“I thought the task force said those two males weren’t working with others?”

“That’s what the task force was told by the captured males. They will be questioned again. Did you leave anything at her home?”

“No.”

“You visited her there a few times, correct?”

“Yes. I have been to her apartment three times. I took her food once, then picked her up and dropped her off after she visited me here. Why does it matter?”

Tiger hesitated. “Someone must have seen you there. It may have made her a target because it links her to the NSO. The attack may have nothing to do with the shooting. But…a man assumed to be a reporter was also in town, asking questions. It seems someone leaked what happened at the diner.”

“I don’t care about the attacker’s motives unless he’s found. Then I want him.” He’d kill the male for touching his female. “I am bringing Mel home with me.”

Tiger blinked a few times but then nodded. “Just get her permission, please. Don’t pull a Valiant. We need to keep the local humans on our side. It would look bad if you tossed her over your shoulder and carried her away while she protested.”

He didn’t care. Mel was in danger. A human had broken into her apartment. The scenarios of what horrible things could have happened to her played through his mind. She could have been killed! Humans were dangerous. “Where is the team to take me to her?” It was tempting to go on his own. The Jeep was close. “I need to see her.”

Tiger seemed to guess his intentions and moved between him and the Jeep. “Calm, Snow. I’m aware of how much your instincts will demand you reach her quickly, but you need an escort. Sheriff Cooper would have been honest if she were seriously injured. He swore she was fine. We’re not sure of what kind of threat we’re dealing with yet. It could have been as harmless as a robbery, or something far worse, like a hater targeting her because you went to her home.”

Snow needed to get to Mel. Before he could tear away from Tiger to get to the Jeep, he heard an SUV engine. Torrent and Brass sat in the front, and he could see the shape of another male in the back. He stepped around Tiger and rushed to the side door of the SUV when it stopped, opening it. Timber waited in the backseat.

They took off fast, Torrent driving. Brass turned his head, meeting his gaze. “Remain calm, Snow. I’m aware that the female Melinda is very important to you. We will go to the town, find out all the details, and take it from there.”

He saw another SUV waiting for them just beyond the gates. Three SUVs in all left Reservation. The NSO wasn’t taking any chances after the attack on the diner. He wondered if a task force team from Homeland would be joining them soon. He glanced at Brass. He would know.

“Did you contact Homeland?”

“Yes.”

“Are they sending a team of humans to us?”

“Not currently until we have more information.”

That soothed him somewhat. He liked the task force but he didn’t want them involved when it came to Mel. They’d already talked to her once before promptly returning her to her apartment, the day of the shooting. He’d been furious when he’d realized she was gone. That wasn’t going to happen again.