Emily's hands went to Brandt's powerful biceps and squeezed gently. She felt the tension in Brandt's hold and wanted him to know she was his.His muscles tightened fractionally and then he released her. His hand stroked down to her backside and gently cupped one cheek through the yellow silk. He whispered in her ear, "You're mine," before releasing her entirely.Thomas walked to a sideboard and took out glasses without acknowledging his son's implied threat. "I propose a toast." He splashed dark liquid into each glass and passed them around. "Brandt may your mate calm you and bring you endless love. Emily, may you find peace and happiness in his arms."They brought their snifters to their lips. Brandt could not take his eyes from Emily and grinned when she took a drink without taking time to scent. Her mouth and nose scrunched sharply at the taste of the strong liquor.Seeing Brandt's grin, she brought the glass back to her lips and downed the rest. Her eyes blazed but she didn't

They left the cabin and Brandt took her through a rougher course than usual. Other werewolves and pack mates in human form were interspersed throughout the area and going about their normal day, but none did more than glance up when the two streaked past. They were cautiously accepting Emily. Brandt took her to a small canyon and scaled an incline of rocks. On four legs, Emily was becoming more stable and tackled the loose rocks and steep incline with little difficulty. After the canyon, Brandt led her to a large metal barn. It smelled of sweat, blood, and wolf. The double doors were open and they went directly inside. There were other wolves within but Brandt ignored them and led her to the showers and some shelves that held clothing. They shifted and both dressed in sweats."I'll leave you with Thomas and come back in two hours. Will you be okay?"She saw the concern on his face. She knew it would be a long two hours without him but she would survive. "Yes, but don't forget me."

Emily spoke to the mind of every wolf present. "Brandt is mine; never forget that. It doesn't matter who came before, it only matters who tries to take him from me now. That person dies." Emily released her sharp teeth and gave a long lick to Thomas' face. "I think you're finished for today but I still need my beast workout."An unclothed Brandt stepped between the ropes surrounding the ring. "My old man will never learn. There is only one wolf in this pack who can give you a run for your money sweetheart.""I don't think sweet is the word you will use in a few minutes." With that Emily launched herself at her mate and the fight was on.The wolves stayed to watch. Brandt had no illusions about who they were there to see. She was his mate and his pack wanted to judge if she was truly worthy. A sharp bite to his thigh and damn close to his manhood brought his thoughts back to the fight.Thomas got out of the way, blood trailing from deep gouges on his shoulder and leg. He was proud o

Emily's nervousness increased after they landed and the smell of humans became overpowering. Her slightly shaking hand sought Brandt's and she was grateful when he sent a soothing vibration through his touch. People stared and watched their every move. They traveled by limousine and the buzz began again when they entered the luxurious hotel. It put Emily even more on edge and her tension escalated. Two bellhops took them to their suite. Once the door closed, strong comforting arms came around her shoulders and a gentle kiss landed on her nose. She took a deep breath and her body relaxed. Another breath and she was back in control. Pulling away she looked around the suite.A large living room with several couches and chairs took up the front area. A dining table for eight separated the room from a luxurious kitchen. Emily made her way through each room and finally walked into the master bedroom. An extra-large bed was the centerpiece with a grouping of plush chairs next to bay windows

She looked up. Pure onyx burned into her eyes making her voice wobbly "I, I asked Maggie what I could do for you, so she picked out the corset and explained you would like this.""Ah." He took a few breaths and then continued. "Remind me to send you shopping with her more often."She smiled in relief and then wiggled from his hold and stood on the floor at the bottom of the bed. Kicking off her shoes, her wicked smile found his. "We aren't done but I need your help getting out of this contraption," her smile deepened, "Please."Making short work of the corset, he unclasped the garters, and rolled the stockings down her legs. Lifting her into his arms and walking to the Jacuzzi, he slowly lowered them into the tepid water. He turned on warmer water to finish filling the tub and then pressed the control for the jets. Grabbing the bubble bath, he poured some in.The jets massaged her muscles and relieved the ache brought on by her shoes. "This is heaven.""I've just decided I'm havin