Chapter 2

Cassia dreamt of the Alpha, his piercing eyes locked on hers. Dominant and powerful, he growled, demanding her submission. The true creature inside whispered to her, urging her to give her gift to him. But her mind fought the desire and she imagined she was soaring in the air, flapping her wings. As consciousness woke in her dream, she twisted the story, fighting her attraction to him.

For days after the incident in Idaho, Cassia had been tempted to contact the Alpha. Though she resisted, her visions persisted and she told herself it was her duty to warn him, nothing more, nothing less.

Cassia had been living and working in New Orleans when she'd been invited to Idaho for a private reading. A millionaire, Raphael Montego Chapman, had written her telling her that his wife had been a huge fan of tarot. He requested her private services as a present for his wife at her birthday party. He'd written, telling her a friend from New Orleans had recommended Cassia to him.

Though initially hesitant, she'd agreed to go after he'd beseeched her to do it, offering nearly ten thousand dollars for a night of work. He'd flown her up in a private jet and paid for her room in a five-star hotel in Coeur d"Alene. Although she'd have to call off for the weekend, the money would more than make up for her lost work. After a lifetime of running, she'd save money for the next time she was forced to leave … the hellhounds would come for her again.

What she hadn't expected was to walk into a cocktail party with one hundred of their closest friends. From old money bankers to A list actors, the mansion buzzed with clout and coke. In an atmosphere laced with dollar bills and drugs, the energy zipped and popped. The second she'd stepped into the home, she'd immediately sensed the dark magick.

Not a paranormal in sight, she only saw humans. But that never fooled her, as humans were just as capable of evil as paranormals. While most appeared innocent, going about their days without giving a thought to the occult, a small percentage either loathed the existence of paranormals or, worse, sought gain from the evil that only a demon could elicit. Favors. Trades. Outright deals. Quid pro quo. A deal with Hell never ended well.

The second she met Raphael and his wife Allegra, she detected their dark energy. Cassia's blood ran cold as Allegra parted her lips to speak, the putrid stink of Hell lingering on her breath. She immediately backed away and attempted to leave, but Raphael moved to stop her, grabbing her arm. The partygoers swarmed her, attempting to drag her to the floor. Cassia fought back, and slipped free of their grip.With her dress torn, she took off running out of the house, into the wilderness of the Pacific northwest. Though the tendrils of dark energy clutched at her heels, she never looked back.

In the darkness of the forest, growling and thunder in the distance echoed in her ears. Cassia ducked behind a tree, the excruciating pain tearing through her gut. She struggled to shift. It was the only way she'd survive. Yet, her beast failed to transform, sending confusion sweeping through her mind. Terrified, she continued running but stumbled over a branch and began rolling down the hill, bashing her body against the rocks.

The Alpha's power washed over her long before she saw him.

"Easy." Julian reached out to her, embracing her in his arms as the cliff gave out. As they slid down the mountain in a river of debris, his mesmerizing deep brown eyes were the last thing she saw before she fell into the swirling tunnel of darkness. Help me.

Her dream morphed back into her nightmare. Flames engulfing her business. Running out of the building. The Alpha. My Alpha.

Cassia's body tensed as she heard his voice. Her eyes flew open and she sucked an audible breath. As his fingers brushed over her shoulder, his electric energy zipped through her.

Where am I?Cassia jolted out of bed and scrambled to the wall. Her lungs fought for air, panting for breath.

"Don't … don't …" She shook her head and held out her hand, adrenaline pumping though her veins.

"It's okay," he told her, his voice lowered to a whisper as if he were speaking to a child. "Nothing will happen to you here."

"The hellhounds," she whispered. They'd come for me.

"It's okay. You're safe in here," he promised. "No hellhounds. Just me."

"But back at the?—"

"Yeah, we probably need to talk about that."

Cassia's eyes softened as the Alpha extended his hand. His energy was already affecting her. She couldn't risk touching him again.

"I'm okay. I've got this." Never taking her eyes off him, she pushed up onto her feet. She struggled to remain composed, his power washing over her like Niagara Falls.

"You don't look okay. Let me help you," he insisted.

He reached for her and she stepped back. "I'm okay. Really. I just need to catch my breath."

"Take a seat." Julian gestured to a pair of matching accent chairs that offered a view of the historic street.

"No. They'll see us." She ducked into the shadows, hidden from the window.

"They'll see nothing." Julian walked to the window and slid his finger over the glass. "One way. We see out but they can't see in here. They don't even know we are supes."

"But how?" Cassia looked to the shutters and back to the Alpha.

"Magick." Julian revealed a devious smile.

"What magick can shield you from demons?" Cassia doubted his words. She'd spent a lifetime consulting the seers and witches, and no one could conceal her from the hounds.

"Come. Sit." Julian pointed to the chair. It was a command, not a request.

The Alpha's power danced over her gently, willing her to submit. Her beast within understood, but her humanity fought her instinct.

Julian slid into a chair and propped his feet onto the ottoman. "See. Nothing is there. No one can tell who or what lives here."

Cassia took slow deliberate steps toward the Alpha. As she approached, butterflies danced in her stomach, an odd sense of attraction and fear intermixed.

With his dark eyes and strong jawline, Julian was devastatingly handsome. His lips curled into a smile as she slid into the chair next to him. Her fingers curled over the edge of the soft leather chair, her heart pounding in her chest.

He removed his feet from the ottoman and set them on the floor as he leaned closer to her. "How do you know me?"

"I…I don't."

"You know who I am. You invited me here. What are you?"

"I'm who you saw back at Divination. I read tarot cards."

"A psychic huh?" Julian raised a questioning eyebrow at her and pinned her with a cold stare. "What were you doing in Idaho in the woods?"

"I was at a party."

"Long way from New Orleans."

"It was a job. I ran into a few … complications."

"Complications, huh? What about the hospital? You want to tell me what happened there?"

"I just needed to escape. I don't know you." Far away from the party and hellhounds, the Alpha's power had given her magick the boost she'd needed to shift.

"How did you get out?" he pressed.

"I just left," she replied, still unsure if she could trust him.

"What happened in my home in Idaho? I want the truth."

"I told you the truth. I'm psychic. I have dreams. They usually …" Keep me alive. Warn me of hellhounds. "I use my premonitions to help me escape them. And you …" Her heart pounded in her chest as she stared deep into his eyes. "I dreamt of you. The fire."

"How did you come to me?"

"I, uh, I can sometimes astral project," she confessed. "But after what happened in Idaho … I couldn't stay."

"What happened back there? What's with the hellhounds tonight? Why are they after you?"

"I …" There was no logical explanation. No one would believe her. "They're always after me. But tonight … I think they're after you too."

Julian shook his head. "Why did you run, back in Idaho?"

"I was scared. I can sense Hell," her eyes seeped in sadness. "I can sense it on other people. I can sense it on …"

"On me?" Julian asked.

Cassia nodded. "It's faint. But you know when people have gone to Hell. It takes time to lose the scent. It does things to people. Leaves an imprint?—"

"On their soul."

"Yeah, I guess once you've been touched by a …" Demon. She couldn't say the word aloud. "Something bad."

"Why is this happening?" Julian's gaze roamed over her. "How did you really find me?"

Cassia crossed her arms protectively over her chest. He doesn't believe me. "That first time I met you in the woods … I already told you, I wasn't there for you. It was a job. A job gone wrong. I don't completely understand why this is happening now, why I saw the fire. After you saved me that day…well, I know it sounds crazy … we didn't spend time around each other but …" I can't stop thinking of you. Her stomach tightened into a ball. "The dreams are intense. The fire. I could feel it on my skin. Even with the astral projection … I wasn't sure if I could find you."

"But you did."

"I did." She released a breath and sighed.

"Why did you leave the hospital?"

"Look, I'm sorry about Idaho," she offered without giving him additional information. She'd shifted in the hospital room and then took off back to the airport. "I was scared. You have to understand … I was being chased. I couldn't be sure they wouldn't come for me. I had to get out."

"I'd literally just saved you though?—"

"I didn't know you." Cassia leaned forward and released her arms to her sides. Her fingers accidentally brushed against his and she snapped her hand back as if it had been burned. Her heart pounded as his energy flowed through her. She swore she heard his wolf growl. "Sorry… I …" What's happening to me?

"What are you? I thought you were human but there's no way you could have escaped the hospital on foot. The human doctors said you needed surgery."

Cassia couldn't trust the Alpha with her secrets. She knew the time might come one day, but tonight wasn't it. With all her strength, she suppressed her true nature and locked eyes with the Alpha in a defiant stare. Any wolf roaming the earth would be forced to submit, but Cassia was no wolf nor did she have any plans on succumbing to his power.

"I'll tell you what I am when I'm ready," she answered, satisfied with the truth. "And I'm gonna need a minute." More than a minute. A year. A century. However long it would take until she could trust him.

"I can feel your energy." His gaze softened. "Fear. Magick."

"I've been running for a long time," she confessed, emotion swirling in her chest.

"I know what that's like." Julian leaned toward Cassia.

"Do you believe in prophesies?" She asked.

"I've lived long enough that I never rule out a good prophesy. Or conspiracy theory, for that matter. Too much shit goes down in this world."

"My premonitions. You're the first … other than the ones that affect me." Her voice lowered to a whisper. "The cards … they are what lead me to advise others. That's different. But protecting myself? I rely on my senses. When I started dreaming of you …"

"Looks like I got here for the good part." Greyson materialized behind them wearing a broad smile.

Cassia screamed bloody murder and jumped up from her chair.

Julian stepped between them, blocking his view of her. "Jesus Christ, vampire. What the hell are you doing?"

"Speaking of Hell …" Greyson leaned over and smiled at Cassia, revealing a set of fangs. "It seemed like it was about to get hot in here."

"What is wrong with you?" the Alpha growled.

Her face heated as Julian stepped backwards, and his back brushed her hands. His protective energy washed over her, lulling Cassia's soul. She bit her lip, and peeked around the Alpha. The domineering vampire towered above her. Though he smiled, she'd known too many bloodsuckers who took pleasure in the chase. Like a cat with a mouse, they played with their prey … slowly weakening them until they grew bored or sank their fangs into them. I am not prey.

"I think that's to be determined," he replied.

I am not prey. She repeated in her mind and promptly slammed down her shields. Though taken off guard by his abilities, she'd trained over the years to close off her mind from unwanted intrusions.

"Ha! I knew it!" Greyson clapped.

"What are you going on about?" Julian asked. "No don't answer. This isn't the best time."

"She's not a human, after all."

Julian turned his head back at Cassia and shot her a look. As they locked eyes, her stomach twisted in a knot. Damn vampire suspected the truth.

"You're scaring her," Julian scolded.

"Seriously?" Greyson gave a hearty laugh. "Big bad wolf, my ass."

"Vampire. Enough. I'll be done in a minute," Julian told him.

"Interesting," Greyson mused. He leaned sideways to steal a glance at Cassia. "See you soon, pet."

She glared at him, amazed as he dematerialized into nothing. "I think we should go."

"What?" Julian shook his head and turned to her.

"I don't like vampires."

"Not many people do. It's an acquired kind of thing."

"No, I really don't like vampires," she insisted.

"Yeah, I know the feeling. Listen …" Julian paused. "I don't even know your real name."

"Cassia. Cassia Luna."

"Cassia, you need to eat. Unless you're vampire which I know you aren't, you've got to eat something."

"What? Why?" Her stomach growled. "Maybe. I guess but?—"

"Stay in this room. Do you understand?"

"Like a prisoner?" She put her hands on her hips, annoyed.

"No. Like a friend. Unless you'd like to go face hellhounds, I'd suggest you do as I say. I need to talk with Greyson."

"The vampire?"

"Yeah, him." Julian's gaze painted over her. "I'll, uh, I'll get you something to eat. You can shower if you want. You smell like ash."

"How nice of you to say so." She gave a tight smile and looked to the bathroom. "I think I'm better off staying fully dressed with a vampire around."

"I'm not going to hurt you, and neither is the vampire. You have my word. But we are going to have a talk. If we're going to help each other, you're going to have to learn how to trust me."

Cassia searched his eyes for any sign of deception. Though his expression and tone had softened, his power remained strong and steady. It was a rush, a pleasant sensation that she hoped would go on forever but knew at any second it could go away. In her mind, the creature urged her to trust him … submit.

Shocked at her inner thoughts, she sucked in a breath and shook off her trance. Jesus, Cass. "Um … sorry … yeah, um, I'm not sure, but I'm open to the possibility of us coming to a place of mutual understanding."

"Given the hellhounds chasing you, I'd say that's a good choice."

"Sometimes I believe … sometimes the Goddess helps people, leads them together. I thought I was just supposed to warn you but I don't know anymore." Sadness rushed her. Cassia's face turned somber. "You need to know, Alpha. There's something about me that Hell wants. I've been running for a long time. I don't want to go to Hell. I want to live my life."

Julian walked to the door, stopped and turned to her. "I won't let them take you."

As the Alpha shut the door behind him, Cassia released a deep breath. Her mind raced, her body still tingling with his power.

"What the hell is happening to me?" Cassia rubbed her eyes and attempted to shake his hold over her. "Oh my Goddess. He's a fucking Alpha. Calm down, Cass."

Her mind raced as she struggled to come to terms with her predicament. The moment she'd astral projected to him, she knew there would be a chance he'd come for her. Though capable of small manifestations she was unable to materialize. She'd left her tarot cards, hoping that if he hadn't understood, there'd be no question of a communication.

Cassia blew out a breath and attempted to settle her mind. The fire. She shoved her hand into her backpack and retrieved her cell phone. Seven panicking texts from Marley, the receptionist at Divination.

"Thank Goddess she's okay." Cassia tapped out her reply. I'm fine. U ok?

I'm safe

Where r u?

Cathedral

Marley, where r u?

Evil.

Marley?

"Fuck!" Cassian threw her backpack on the bed. What the hell happened? Hell.

Cassia rubbed her hand over her hair and glanced to her blackened palm. Ash had settled into her hair. She looked to her blackened jeans and up to the bathroom door. "What have I gotten myself into?"

Cassia crossed the room and flicked on the light to the bathroom. As she stared at her dirty face, she sighed. The stench of the hellhounds clung to her. The Alpha wasn't letting her leave anytime soon. She reasoned she might as well get clean and reached into the shower and switched on the faucet.

"Blood sucking vampire better stay the fuck out."

* * *

As the hotspray sluiced down her back, Cassia closed her eyes and pictured the Alpha. With tousled dark hair and chiseled jawline, he exuded power and dominance. Though he could have left her for the demons at any time, he'd saved her … twice.

The secret she kept itched to be revealed but the Alpha had to earn her trust. Over the years, she'd told only a few people of her ability, her origins. Lucky to be alive, Cassia stayed hidden, moving whenever the premonitions of the hellhounds warned her of their arrival.

Through the mist of her shower, she detected the scent of fresh baked bread and her stomach growled. She reached for the spigot and turned off the water. Though still unsure of whether to trust the Alpha, hunger won the battle of her immediate needs.

Cassia snatched a black towel that hung outside the glass-encased shower. As she stepped onto the cool marble floor, a shiver ran through her.

"Jesus, it's cold in here." Though early Spring, the nights in New Orleans had remained cool and she yearned for summer.

Cassia grimaced at the pile of smoky clothes she'd tossed neatly on the floor. What the fuck am I supposed to wear now? Just ask the friendly wolf if he has a washing machine.You still need something to wear now.This isn't even my house but …

She eyed the dresser, reached for a drawer and slid it open, revealing neatly folded shirts. She smiled as if she'd discovered hidden treasure. Cassia reached for an oversized Saints sweatshirt.

She tossed the towel and gooseflesh broke over her body. As she pulled the sweatshirt over her head, it instantly warmed her. Within seconds she'd located socks and sweatpants, and slid into the clothing.

With her hair still wet, she finger-combed her long damp locks. She took a deep breath and stared at the door. "He said he didn't want me to leave. And you don't like hellhounds. But I'm hungry. Oh just go find him."

As she reached for the doorknob, she glanced into the floor to ceiling rectangular mirror leaning against the wall. Her face had grown pale, her eyes tired and puffy. With her body weakened, she longed to shift. But she suspected that if the Alpha's wards were strong enough to rebuke hellhounds, it could prevent her from shifting. And she wasn't quite ready to reveal her beast. She'd consider shifting later … after food.

With each step down the hallway, she looked to the series of paintings that hung on the wall. Inside of the gold embossed frames, the eyes of older days stared back at her, their faces illuminated by dim light.

A loud creak sounded as she padded toward the stairs. She cringed but kept walking. Her arrival wouldn't be a secret, but there was no way she was planning on spending one more second alone in that bedroom. She paused at the top of the stairs and looked down to her fate. She would not allow the Alpha to intimidate or wield his power over her. Any seedlings of attraction had to be rooted in his Alpha magick and she was strong enough to resist.

Cassia curled her fingers around the cool wooden railing and stepped onto the stairs. She would survive this too. It was going to be fine. It had to be fine.Just fine. I can do this."

"Of course you can," a male voice declared behind her.

Shock rocked her, and she spun around, catching sight of the intimidating vampire from earlier. Startled, her foot slipped and she clung to the rail attempting to find her footing.

"Stay away from me, vampire." Her heart pounded in her chest.

He flashed a toothy smile. "You're a funny little creature, aren't you?"

"Stay away." She stole a glance down the stairs. Julian.

"I'm not going to hurt you now."

"No. Don't come near me. I?—"

"What are you doing?" The Alpha's energy washed over her as his firm hands clasped her waist.

"Julian … I …" She looked up to him, his eyes lit with amusement.

"I'm sorry … the vampire …" she stammered.

"He's harmless. Mostly anyway." Julian shot him a look.

Confusion swept through her as she turned to the Alpha. "Wait. How did you get here so fast?"

"I know things. You're not the only one who can get out of situations…or hospitals. I've got a few tricks I can show you."

Julian's devious smile tempted Cassia and for a brief second, she imagined those lips tasting her skin. With the thought, she slammed down her shields, mortified that the vampire and possibly even Julian would hear her.

"Come, let's eat," he told her.

Cassia's pulse raced as he released her waist and offered his hand. Her heart pounded in her chest as her palm touched his. She followed the Alpha, not taking her eyes off of him save for but a second to look back, to find the vampire had disappeared.

As they entered the great room, Cassia scanned her surroundings. Black lambswool cushioned seating encircled a black marble table. The flames danced within large black pillar candles lining the kitchen countertop. Reflections of the flickering light emanated from the small fire blazing inside a woodfired brick oven above the stove.

"Have a seat." Julian gestured to a chair. "Wine?"

"Yeah, sure." Cassia nervously stroked her fingers over the soft fabric.

"Cabernet? Syrah? Chianti? I've got a white if you'd like."

"Um, Cabernet would be great." Cassia noted four place settings and swiveled her head to see if they were alone.

"It's just us," he assured her.

"Where's the vampire?"

"Greyson? He's not here. But he's not going to hurt you. Well, as long as you don't hurt us. We don't know what you are after all."

Cassia watched in silence as he uncorked the bottle and filled their glasses. He set her wine in front of her and lifted his own into the air. "You aren't planning on hurting us, are you?"

"Of course not. But vampires … I don't know. And your friend there … he's powerful. I can feel it."

Julian smiled.

"So are you," she told him. Cassia reached for the glass, waiting for him to drink first.

As he brought the rim to his lips, she followed, allowing the flavor of blackberry and notes of vanilla to dance over her tongue. Her body relaxed with a second deep draw of wine.

"I'm not going to hurt you. We can help each other," she said.

"But we already have," he countered. "Do you like pizza?"

"Pizza?" She looked to the woodburning oven.

"I thought on ordering out but it's a little too late. Which means you're in luck."

"Funny. When I think of my life, lucky isn't the first thing that comes to mind. But okay, let's go with it. It's been a day." Cassia took another drink of her wine and smiled up at him.

"I make the best pizza in New Orleans."

"A wolf who makes pizza?"

"You know it. It is the ultimate bachelor's go-to after all."

Single?"Pizza works."

"Spent a lot of time in Italy. New York."

"But we're in New Orleans."

"Yes, we are." He smiled.

"What about your pack?" Cassia had already begun sensing his loneliness.

"I don't have a pack." Julian moved behind the kitchen counter. He spun a large wooden bowl and reached for the dough. "I'm going to tell you something because I think it's time we clear the bullshit. I'm too old for bullshit."

"Same." Cassia laughed and nodded, raising her glass. "All right then. What the hell. I'm down. You go first."

Julian wore a sexy smile as he tossed the dough onto the counter and sprinkled flour onto the mound. Kneading dough, he spoke with a direct tone.

"I'm an ancient wolf. Older than most in the world. For a long time, there were people who wanted to see my family dead. Hundreds of years have gone by while I've been in hiding. I've recently outed myself because I love my sister and she needed help. She's mated to a wolf in Wyoming, and long story short, one of the wolves in her new pack was saved by an ancient vampire, but now there's a bit of an issue. I'm now babysitting a hybrid baby vamp wolf."

"A baby vampire?"

"He's a newly turned vampire, but he's still a wolf through and through. The little shit is going to be an Alpha himself one day … he doesn't really know it yet though."

"It sounds like you're being a good friend.' Cassia watched in fascination as Julian began working the dough with his hands. With strong dexterous fingers, he worked his magic, punching it down and then kneading.

She imagined his hands on her skin, sucked a breath and took another sip of her wine, attempting to hide the heat creeping up her neck. Jesus Christ, what was it about this man that made her wish she was a ball of dough?

"Yeah, well, that's the thing," he shrugged. "I try to do the right thing. But being alone, I had a little less…"

"Family?"

"Family? Yeah, I guess you could put it that way. Except for the ancient vampire and baby vamp. Not sure how you'd class them."

"You and the older vampire are taking care of the baby vamp together?"

"Yeah, mostly us the past week but the other vamp. The parent vamp…the one who is off in Sardinia for a get away with his new toy … yes that guy has taken care of him too."

"Sounds like family to me." A deep longing for her own family stabbed her chest.

"So yeah, something like that. And Rafe. The hybrid. He was there for us … you … the night you were shot at."

Cassia watched in amazement as Julian spun the dough into the air and caught it and pressed it out onto the wooden paddle.

"And so yeah, they will be around for a while. I promised Greyson I'd watch over Rafe and I keep my word." Julian dressed the pizza with sauce and cheese. "So you see, that day I found you in the woods. Rafe was with me when we took you to the hospital. We both were puzzled by your disappearance in the hospital. But I was ready to let it go. I really was."

Julian inserted the paddle into the oven and slid the pizza into the fire. "The thing you did with the cards. And the fire? Then just again with the demons in your store. Now I can't let it go."

Cassia nodded and played with the hem of her sweatshirt. Her pulse raced as he leaned his palms onto the counter and pinned her with a stare.

"Cassia. May I call you that?"

"Of course."

"You should know something about me. Other than a twinge of Hell chasing my ass and my magick crappin' out here and there lately, I'm generally happy. I love golf. I love fishing. And good pizza. I'm a simple man."

"Simple man? Hmm … that's exactly what comes to mind when I think of an ancient Alpha." Sarcasm dripped from her voice and she shot him a smile.

"It's true." He nodded. "Now of course I enjoy the company of a beautiful woman now and then. A good wine. A slow dance."

"So you're no longer alone?" As the words flew out of her mouth, Cassia's cheeks heated in embarrassment. "I'm sorry, no, you don't have to answer that."

He shot her a knowing smile. "It depends on what you mean by alone. If you mean do I have the company of a woman … not until this very moment. That is, of course, unless you try to attempt another disappearing act on me. But an Alpha isn't ever truly ever alone, I suppose."

"Do you feel other wolves?"

"I can feel them all. Every wolf of my blood."

Cassia sensed his power. It continued to thrum through her and she questioned if her attraction to him was real or supernatural in nature.

"So when you say you're one of the original wolves … do you mean your family is?—"

"Yes, I do come from royal blood but I'm simply a wolf," he replied without missing a beat. "Now it's your turn."

"No bullshit?"

"No bullshit." Julian stared at her, his eyes swirling with intensity.

"Okay, but I'm only telling you," she acquiesced. "Not the vampire. Or the hybrid wolf vampire."

"I can only promise you confidentiality within the realm of this home. Should we face danger again and what you tell me is pertinent information, I will need you to share this information with them."

Cassia slid her fingers along the stem of the glass as Julian reached for the bottle and poured her more wine.

"I'm also on the run so to speak," she confessed. "My family has more stability. Mum and Dad. My sister, Ella. They live in Hawaii. Maui. It's beautiful."

"Sounds nice. And you? Why aren't you with them?" Julian brought the glass of wine to his lips.

Cassia's smile faded as she contemplated divulging her truth. There had been moments in her life when she'd shared her secret. They had all kept her confidence, some died upholding her secret.

"I'm going to tell you something. It's about the hellhounds."

"No bullshit," he pressed.

She smiled. "The truth is I haven't told many people. The thing is that the hounds have been after me for a long time. I've stayed in places as long as ten years but eventually they find me … the visions come and warn me. Then I know it's time to move on. And since you've had the pleasure of seeing them for yourself or at least seeing the fires…you deserve to know what's happening." She leaned back in her chair and rubbed her eyes. As she opened them again, she locked her gaze on his.

"I am descended of the Goddess. Like you, our magick is as old as time. Descended of Thetis, we are the last of our kind … I am one of the last of my kind. I am a chameleon."

"I've been around for a long time and I've never seen such a thing. We said no bullshit."

"It's not bullshit. It's life." Cassia shot to her feet and patted her hand on her chest. "It's my life."

"Chameleon don't exist."

"We do exist," she insisted. Fucking wolves. Though it wasn't the first time someone hadn't believed her, she was hoping the sexy Alpha would be a little more open minded.

She took a deep breath and closed her eyes, sending her magick through her veins. Wards may have kept her from leaving his house but there was no way they'd contain her. She smiled as she transformed, confident in her power.

"I never seen a—" Julian's jaw dropped open as he turned around and caught sight of the magnificent animal lope across the room. With deliberate cautious steps, he approached the lion. "What the fu?—"

Cassia released a roar. Believe me now?

"You're a lion?"

She roared in response. I'm anything you want me to be.

"Clever, girl." Julian smiled and held out his hand to her.

She growled, determined to resist him. But the temptation grew too great as he drew closer. She inhaled his delicious scent, his power caressing her soul. Her beast demanded its due and she bowed her head and submitted to his touch. As his fingers ran through her fur she purred, her beast content.

"Look at how beautiful you are. So you're a lion shifter … why didn't you just say so?"

I'm a chameleon.Cassia released her magick and transformed once again.

The small black cat meowed at him and rubbed against his calf. As he began to caress her head, she resisted the urge to purr.

Julian laughed. "Okay, okay I believe you. So you shift into cats?"

I shift into whatever I want.Cassia sent her power one last time, knowing she couldn't hold form any longer. The wards drained her magick. With a final push, she dematerialized and reappeared as a royal blue parrakeet. Cassia flew around the room and landed near her clothing. Unable to hold her form any longer, she transformed into her human body once again.

Taking care to cover her body, she turned away from him and pulled her sweatshirt over her head. She scooped up the pants and shuffled her legs into them before standing.

"I'm a chameleon," she declared. It was as much of the truth as she was willing to share. Revealing more vulnerabilities would only come if he earned her trust.

"This is how you got out of the hospital?" He laughed, held up a finger and picked up the paddle. "Gotta check the pizza."

"It wasn't easy but I managed to shift to a cat and slipped out of the ER into another room where I changed into scrubs and walked out. I later shifted into an eagle and flew to Seattle to catch a flight. I was afraid the people … the humans …" Demons. "They'd know if I returned to Spokane airport. I had to go further."

Julian slid out the pie and set it onto the wood block countertop. "It's ready."

"Do you cook a lot?" Cassia changed the subject.

"Sometimes. I'm a fan of the culinary arts." He shrugged. "Although I highly doubt I would make a great chef. I'm infinitely better at eating than cooking."

"It smells delicious."

"I do make a mean wood fired pizza."

"I'm starving," she confessed.

"So how is it I've never seen a true chameleon?" he asked.

"It would be hard to tell if you did. We can change into any animal so…"

"You don't scent as animal."

"Perhaps because we are more of an illusion. You really wouldn't know if you've met one or not. We're a flexible reorganization of molecules … pure shifter magick from the Goddess. We take great care to keep our secret. I hope I can trust you with mine."

"Of course. Why don't you have a seat and we'll eat?"

Cassia did as he said and sat at the table. She reached for her glass of wine and brought it to her lips, watching as Julian moved with grace, making quick work of slicing the pizza.

"I must admit. That is one beautiful pizza." The delicious scent of tomatoes and bread filtered throughout the room and her mouth watered at the sight of the simmering cheese pie.

Julian placed it on the table and slipped into the seat across from her. She smiled as he slid the spatula underneath and lifted a slice, dripping with cheese, and set it on a plate in front of her.

"Every ingredient is of importance. The flour is imported from Naples, Italy. A few times a year I make and can the sauce. And the cheese…the very best mozzarella. I always keep some stocked in my freezer."

"That is impressive. I've never met someone quite like you."

"I'm not always at my different homes but time has afforded me the ability to learn many things. I don't spend more than a few months of the year in one place, but I make the most of life. I try anyway."

Cassia detected a hint of sadness in Julian's eyes. "I know what it's like to have to move all the time. Do you ever feel like making one place home?"

"Yes and no. I'm rogue, so the very nature of that is I have no pack."

"Are you lonely?" Cassia bit her lip and averted her gaze to her plate.

"Maybe for the first hundred years, but you've got no choice. My sister was too young. She had to be protected." Julian shrugged. "Then you get used to it … I guess. You make it work. You find company in strangers. The world is an interesting place."

"Home is where the heart is." The warmth in Cassia's heart blossomed and she warned herself not to develop any feelings for the Alpha. Don't do it Cass. He's a wolf. He's an Alpha. He's too dangerous. He'll move on. You'll move on.

Julian smiled and gestured to her pizza. "Come on. Let's eat. You first. Let me know what you think. Tell me the truth. Don't break my heart now."

Her smile reached her eyes as she reached for the slice and bit into the cheesy goodness. "Oh, yeah. This is ..." She held up a finger and chewed and swallowed her bite. "Oh my Goddess. So good. No, seriously. I haven't had pizza this good since … I don't know … New York City. Naples. Both. This is…" She took another bite. "Really awesome."

"All right then. Mission accomplished." Julian lifted a slice to his lips.

"So, you've seen me shift." Guilt threaded through her knowing she hadn't told him the entire truth. "What about you?"

Julian laughed. "What about me? I'm a wolf."

"Yeah, yeah but what color are you? I don't remember…that day in the woods."

"I'm black. I'm told my eyes sometimes change color but you know, not that many people have seen me."

"Ah, part of that whole rogue wolf thing you've got going on."

"Something like that."

"So do you see your sister a lot now? I would love to see my family. One day."

"Maybe once this is done …" Julian took another bite. "She lives in Wyoming now. Not too far away."

"Maybe once the hellhounds stop chasing me … I want to see my family too. You must have seen so many things in your travels." She changed the subject. There was no use lingering on her grief over not seeing her family.

"I've seen a lot of crazy things in this world. Things change, but they don't. I want you to know that that touch of whatever you sensed from me. It's not mine. I was in a fight down in central America. Demons were chasing my sister so I helped lure them back to Hell. And it's just that sometimes … well, it's Hell for a reason. You almost start to lose sense of time. I don't think I can go back again…it's doing something to me," he confessed.

"What?"

"I don't know. Something with my magick. I'm feeling off."

"You probably need a cleansing. I can help with that. But a good witch might be able to help both of us." A corner of her lips tugged upward. "Or maybe there's a reason we're supposed to be together."

His eyes lit with both amusement and passion. "Maybe. I'd like to think so. Or maybe you were in serious need of a good pizza."

"Seriously though. My visions … they are usually a warning for just me. I've never seen anyone else. That night up in Idaho … when you saved me." Her heart pounded in her chest, reliving the moment, sliding down the mud, gunshots ringing in the air. "Someone sent for me … got me to go there. I think they were going to kill me. I don't know who they were. I mean, I'm a chameleon … so my blood, my spirit …"

"Your ability," he finished her words. "Someone wanted it."

"I just want to be free of the hellhounds."

"You may be right about the witch. I know one who might be able to help. I'll make some calls in the morning." Julian looked to the pizza. "Tonight though, we eat. Rest."

Cassia took a deep breath and looked to the Alpha. "Thank you. Thank you for Idaho. And for tonight."

"So tell me, those cards of yours. Are you going to read for me?"

Cassia picked up another slice, considering his words. "You sure you want to know your future?"

"If it involves you … then yeah, I want to know." A pregnant pause filled the room. Julian reached for his wine.

"Maybe." She cupped her glass. "Sometimes I wish I didn't know. Sometimes I just want it to end but I don't know how." Cassia's stomach tightened with emotion. "Sometimes when I let the fear creep in, when I'm not strong enough … I don't want these abilities. I just want it to be over. I want …"

"A normal life?"

"Yeah." As Cassia looked up into his piercing eyes, a connection sizzled between them as she'd revealed her darkest thoughts. "I just want some peace. I want to make friends. Be with family. Build a home. I want to make cookies and grow a garden. I want to lounge around on weekends and watch sappy rom coms that make me wish for love." I want love. "I … I don't remember what it's like to not be running."

Julian reached across the table and brushed his hands over hers. She breathed into the calming power of the Alpha and gazed up to him in amazement.

"It's going to be okay, Cass. Whatever is going down with Hell, whatever reason you saw me, warned me … we're going to find out and stop it."

Cassia's heart rushed with emotion, her beast urging her to stay with the Alpha. None of it made any sense. In all her time, she'd never felt connected to anyone … until this moment.

As she looked to their joined hands, logic reminded her of reality. He's dangerous. Lethal. The Alpha could turn on her. Yet time and logic was suspended, his power radiating through her body.

Cassia opened her mouth to thank him but went silent as the vampire appeared behind the Alpha. She snatched her hands out of Julian's, her supercharged energy readied to shift at the first sign of attack.

"Easy there, draga mea." Greyson held up a dismissive hand and raised an eyebrow at her.

"Jesus, vampire." Julian slammed his hands on the table.

Cassia's heart raced as the Alpha stood up between them. She glanced at Julian and back to the vampire.

"You can't go this alone. What harms you could harm the kid. We've got a pup to raise." Greyson smiled with a chuckle. "I can't believe I even said that."

"Rafe isn't a pup. He's a full grown man. An adult. He's a wolf," Julian insisted.

"He requires guidance. He's our responsibility. Well, technically my brother's but he's ours now."

"I've already committed to the wolf." Julian looked to Cassia and nodded. His tone softened. "It's okay. The vampire's safe."

"See now. We're friends." Greyson laughed.

"That's still to be determined." The Alpha told him. "Greyson this is Cassia. Cassia. This is Greyson."

As the ancient vampire approached her and extended his hand, she steeled her nerves. Show no fear. While the rule had always kept her alive, she also knew when to run.

"Hello." Cassia returned his firm handshake. Though she attempted to read his energy, she surmised he'd kept up his guard.

"I wasn't expecting the fire at the shop. I'm sorry," she apologized.

"The hellhounds stalk you?" Greyson released her hand and reached for a slice of pizza.

"Please have some," Julian commented. He pointed to a rack of glasses hanging from the kitchen ceiling. "Wine is on the counter."

"Good pie." Greyson hummed as he chomped down onto a slice.

"Thanks, man."

Cassia gave the Alpha a tight smile and he winked at her. Is he flirting with me in front of the vampire?

"He's smooth like that," Greyson commented and sat down next to Julian. "So, uh, what's the plan?"

"I'm thinking about goin' to see a witch. Any other suggestions?"

"Ah, yes, well. We should discuss options." Greyson's gaze pinned Cassia. "You wanna tell me about the hellhounds? Don't see em' too often out of Hell. A bit unusual."

Cassia nervously bit her lip and glanced at Julian. Long before he nodded at her, she'd already chosen her words addressing Greyson.

"I don't know you, vampire but ..." She had to trust someone … trust her instinct. "If the Alpha says you're not going to hurt me …"

"Not a fly." Greyson smiled.

"As you saw back there, the hellhounds. I've got a bit of a situation. We have a bit of a situation."

"I've only seen them in Hell but I've known a fae who could summon them. Why do they chase you?" Greyson asked.

"They've been after me for a long time."

"Hmm, not ready to share yet I see."

"I've been running on and off for a while, but I have premonitions. I know when they're coming so I can avoid them. Or at least I used to be able to stay safe." Cassia shook her head.

"Alright then. What about the fire in Idaho?"

"This time was different." She stared at her glass of wine, recalling her vision. "It usually happens when I'm sleeping. I can see it like a movie. But that day, I was wide awake in the shower. And … I don't know … it just began to flip like pictures in my mind. But I've dreamt of him too."

"Julian?"

Cassia nodded.

"To be clear, this began after you met me, correct?" The Alpha's eyes reflected an intensity that took her breath away. Something about his energy both scared and captivated her.

"A few days afterwards. I, um, I wasn't sure what it meant but it happened again. I wasn't sure if I could reach you. I'd reached out energetically." Cassia returned Julian's gaze.

"Astral projection?" Greyson asked with a questioning eyebrow.

"Yes. It's similar to the magick you use. I can't materialize my body like you do but it's similar. The cards. I was able to create it, to leave it."

"If your visions have always warned you, why didn't you know tonight?" Julian asked.

"I don't know." Frustration trembled in her voice. "Something happened to me last night. I know I called on you but still … seeing you again … I was nervous."

"How did you get away from the Alpha at the hospital?"

"You told him about the hospital?" Cassia asked Julian.

"Yeah, I told him. How else do think I'd get this old ass vamp down to New Orleans with me?"

"I prefer ancient." Greyson shrugged and smiled at Cassia. "Wise."

"Seasoned?" Julian chuckled.

"Don't listen to him, draga mea. These wolves don't appreciate the power of an ancient vampire."

Cassia laughed, welcoming the brief interlude of brevity. Cassia studied the imposing men before her. A corner of Greyson's lips ticked upward through his empathetic expression.

Julian a dismissive hand at Greyson. "The hospital. Yes, I told him. Rafe told him. I didn't think I'd see you again."

"Nor I you. Yet here we are."

"And what is the connection besides one chance meeting in Idaho?" Greyson asked. "What are you exactly? I can feel your energy but I admit I can't quite place it."

"I…" Cassia hesitated, unsure of her words. She looked to Julian, and he nodded.

"I'm a chameleon." She braced herself for his reaction, and was surprised as he broke out in hearty laughter.

Greyson's hand smacked on the table. "Brilliant!"

"You've actually seen one?" she asked.

"Hell, I used to date one back in the day when I was a newly turned vampire. I kind of liked the spontaneity of not knowing whether I was meeting up with a rabbit or grizzly. Damn near killed me but she was sexy…oh, man was she sexy. Alas though, vampires don't bond with wolves or shifters but we had a good go of things."

"It's amazing you've met one. We're quite rare," she said.

"Indeed, but like I told you, I'm ancient. Full of knowledge." Greyson pointed to his temple.

"You're full of many things," Julian commented.

"Greatness." Greyson's gazed settled upon Cassia. "Returning to the issue at hand?—"

"I don't know how it happened. Like I said, I don't dream of others. I've never dreamt of anyone but me and the hellhounds. The visions were a gift to me."

"A gift of protection," Julian said.

"It used to be. But another thing." She took a deep breath and released it. "I used to go years without the hounds finding me. After tonight, I feel like they could find me wherever I am. That's never happened before. And I've been in New Orleans for a while. I've built my business here. The tourists come see me year after year. Locals as well."

"You control the cards?" Julian asked.

"Control the cards? No. I analyze situations. Spirit guides me as I read the spread before me. I can't read for myself though. My nightmares are the only sign." Emotion twisted in her chest, grieving the loss of friends over the years, never returning to her previous addresses. "But recently … something's off. I sensed you."

"Interesting." Greyson looked to Julian. "Perhaps your magick rubbed off on the chameleon when you saved her."

"I don't know how that would happen," the Alpha replied. "It's true I can use my power to influence other people. Calm someone down for example. Or even make them submit. But it's a one-fer. One instance of me sending power to someone isn't permanent. It's a temporary influence."

"How did you get to the woods?" Greyson pinned Cassia with his question.

"I might as well tell you. It hardly matters at this point." She shook her head. "It was a job. I was hired for a party. The guy wanted a reading for his wife's birthday party."

"So you went to a party with total strangers? Alone?" Greyson asked. "That's not exactly safe."

"She was working," Julian told him.

"I have bills. It was a job. And I'm good at mine. Ask anyone down in the Quarter. Besides it's not that unusual these days. Rich people want something unique for their party."

"Who contacted you?"

"His name was Raphael Montego Chapman. He sent me an email asking me to do the party for his wife's birthday."

"Did you know him?"

"No, like I said. It does happen where someone new books me for a travel gig. Not often, but still. He paid upfront. Flew me up there. Paid for the hotel. Everything seemed legit."

"Then what happened?"

"We can talk more about this tomorrow," Julian offered.

"Two-minute version," Greyson pressed.

"I went to the party. But something was off. I could feel the evil all around me. I tried to leave but they caught me. I fought them. I tried to shift but I couldn't. So I kept running. My memory is a little fuzzy."

"Interesting. Not much can stop a chameleon. Hell though? If someone's working some dark magick, it's feasible."

"The mountain was hard to navigate in bare feet. I couldn't shift. I'd fallen when the Alpha found me. It took time before I could shift again. I don't even know how long I was in that hospital."

"Three hours," Julian told her, filling in her missing time.

"I just knew I had to get out. I think being around Julian had given me the power to shift again, to heal. I couldn't stay there. Humans aren't ready for all the magical creatures."

"Humans aren't privy to our ways." The Alpha nodded.

"But why not find Julian?" Greyson asked.

"I …" She locked eyes with the Alpha, the energy within her sizzled from a mere gaze. "I don't know. I was scared."

"You didn't recall meeting the wolf?"

"I was in and out of consciousness. I only remembered his … eyes." His energy. His dominance. "I just wanted to go home. Get away from there."

Cassia yawned, her magick drained from the stress of the evening.

"We need to know more about the people at the party," Greyson insisted. "I've got a bad feeling about this."

"I—" she yawned. The overwhelming blanket of tiredness weighed heavily on her body. "Sorry."

"We can discuss it tomorrow," Julian insisted.

"But—"

"But nothing, vampire. She put her life on the line reaching out to me. Whatever the reason this is happening, we'll get to the bottom of it. We'll talk tomorrow. All of us."

"Ah, that fire must have made your brain soft," Greyson told Julian. The vampire sighed and shoved to his feet. "Tomorrow it is, draga mea. But I'm telling you, Alpha. You don't need to be a psychic to know this situation is nothing but trouble. I feel it deep in my bones."

Julian nodded. "Tomorrow though."

"Fire and Hell, fire and Hell." The ancient vampire repeated as he dematerialized and disappeared.

"Come," Cassia heard the Alpha command and her beast within purred, urging her once again to submit.

Though her mind told her to fight her attraction she found herself agreeing. Her heart pounded in her chest as Julian stood up and reached for her hand. Her gaze fell to his outstretched palm and back up to his eyes. Like a compulsion she couldn't resist, she placed her hand in his and complied.

* * *

Cassia bither lip at the loss of his presence as the Alpha released her hand. She looked to the inviting king-sized bed and back to Julian. Her face flushed. What the hell is happening to me?

"I think I should go home," she whispered.

"I think that's an exceedingly bad idea." The Alpha stared at her.

"Maybe this was all a misunderstanding. Maybe my visions or your energy here brought the hellhounds. If I leave, if I go home, it will be okay."

"You know that's not true. There's a reason you feel me."

Cassia inhaled, her pulse racing at his words, and tightened her shields to protect her thoughts. I can't stop feeling you. I want you near me. Touching me.

"I know you've had a rough night. And I get this whole situation is less than ideal. But something out there tonight was trying to kill both of us. I want to get to the bottom of this. And most importantly, I don't want anything happening to you. Or me. I want you to stay the night. You'll be safe. Safe with me."

"I'm sorry I just…I'm tired." Tired. Confused. Her anxiety twisted into desire as she looked into his eyes. She averted her gaze, struggling to control her emotions.

"Tomorrow we'll begin to strategize. I promise it's going to be all right."

"A war plan?"

"There's no other way to fight evil. Hell is no joke. I'm not planning on taking any more trips there." Julian reached for the door handle and began to leave.

"Julian," she said, her voice soft.

"Hmm?" He looked up to her.

"Thanks for tonight. Your pizza was great. Che buono." She smiled.

"Grazie, bella." Julian winked and shot Cassia a sexy smile as he shut the door behind him.

Cassia's head fell backwards and she released a sigh, rubbing her eyelids with her fingertips. "Girl, what are you doing?"

She didn't need tarot cards to warn her of her future. Her intense connection to the Alpha threaded through the fibers of her being and confusion swam in her mind.

Cassia stepped toward the window and glanced onto the empty street. Aside from a lone passing car, there was no one in sight. Just another home. No paranormals here.

She opened her arms, reached for the thick velvet drapes and cinched them shut. As she walked toward the bed and turned off the light, she reminded herself the demons could not get her. The Alpha's home is safe.I'm safe.

* * *

Hellhounds. A field of injured wolves, their bodies sliced open, lay scattered on the ground.Cassia woke in a cold sweat, her heart pounding. It took seconds to realize she'd woken to an empty room, a strange home.

We can't stay inside forever but we will until we have a better handle on what's going on.Julian's words played in her mind as a clap of thunder rattled the old building. She pulled the covers up to her neck, her nerves standing on end as the lightning flashed through a crack between the curtains. With the drapes still drawn tight and the room pitch black, panic crept into her head.

During her lifetime, she'd been scared more times than she could count, but each and every time, she'd rallied, ran and survived. With no time for emotions, she'd focus on the next goal, and shove loss to the back of her mind. For if she took but a second to let the trepidation linger, she'd slip up, make a mistake … possibly die. She was a fighter, through and through … the evil wouldn't win.

Tonight the power of the Alpha lingered on her palm where he'd held her hand, and she couldn't shake the temptation of her own emotions of a different kind. As distrust waned, her attraction to Julian flared. She had no doubt her future had been altered.

Thunder rumbled once again. She closed her eyes, concentrating, seeking the Alpha. In her mind's eye, the howl of the wolf beckoned her spirit and her beast recognized the Alpha.

Cassia sat up and swung her legs over the bed. The cool floor radiated through the pads of her feet. Unable to resist the call of the wolf, she shifted.

She slowly padded toward the door, which she discovered was slightly ajar. Had he come looking for her?

Cassia followed his scent and within seconds she'd found his room. His door had also been left slightly open and she suspected he'd done so on purpose. It wasn't as if she'd been in close proximity to many Alphas in her lifetime but they shared many common characteristics. Dominance. Control. Power. Raw sexuality.

Yet she'd never submitted to any creature, neither human nor shifter. But something about Julian drew her to him in a way she found difficult to resist. The scent of the Alpha drifted into her nose as she put one paw in front of the other and padded over to the end of his bed. As the Alpha sat up in bed and peered over to her, her pulse raced. The predator had become prey.

"A pussy cat?" He smiled at her. "Where is your wolf?"

Cassia released a meow and stared up at him. Allowing her wolf to surface would most certainly make her more vulnerable. As a cat, she'd be able to better resist the temptation, his power.

A crack of thunder rumbled the house, and she scampered across the room and ducked underneath a chair. Exhaustion tore through her. So tired of running, she dreaded another moment on her own, fighting the fear that had escalated with every new attack.

"Cassia, it's okay. Come." Julian patted the bed, his voice soft. "It's okay."

She took one step toward him, considering what she was about to do. It was just one night, she told herself. Why suffer alone? She drew closer to his bed, one deliberate step after another.

"That's it. You don't need to be scared. You're safe here. Safe with me." Julian lay back on his pillow, waiting on her.

Willingly, she leapt into the Alpha's bed, risking everything. As she settled next to him, her beast urged her to rest, to submit to her craving. There hadn't been one time in her life she'd ever indulged, allowed herself to be vulnerable to anyone, let alone an Alpha.

As she gazed into his eyes, searching for truth, his strength and power washed over her, calming her soul. Without warning, he scooped her up in his hands and swaddled her into the covers against him, and she immediately relaxed. Just one night. She'd fall asleep and wake up, gazing upon the Alpha, bathed in his power protection.