Chapter 3

Julian draped the comforter over the nude woman lying in his bed. As he lay on his side, studying her face, his mind raced with questions. Shortly after she'd fallen asleep, she'd shifted. Why couldn't she maintain her animal? Why are the hellhounds chasing her? Why am I so attracted to her?

It had been years since he'd entertained a relationship. The only woman he'd ever cared about had been murdered years ago. A fae, her brother had gotten her killed in a dive bar in the Central Business District. The police said she'd gone to help him pay a debt but she'd ended up paying with her life. A silver bullet to the head meant for a vampire had been more than enough to kill her.

Reagan's lips had been his first taste of Hell but certainly not his last. In the end, it was never a soul connection. Julian had always known the score and so had she. Fae didn't mate with wolves. He'd allowed the affair to go on way longer than he should have. When she'd told him she'd loved him, he couldn't say the same. He cared for her, but it didn't matter … she wasn't his mate. Still, her death haunted him, always carrying the guilt he could have saved her.

He studied the chameleon, her raven locks curling over her olive skin. A hint of an indigo dolphin tattoo peeked at him under the strands of hair brushing over her shoulder. Though tempted to touch her, he exercised patience. Her energy sang to his wolf, and the beast roared in anticipation. The Alpha knew he'd have her in all ways, exploring every inch of her … one day, but not today.

It both exhilarated and concerned him. Though a seed of obsession had been planted, logic told him never mate with a chameleon. The legendary creature was rumored to be a solitary being, the exact timing of their mating a forbidden secret. Without the scent of a single animal, they went unnoticed by both humans and supernaturals alike.

In the moments of the late morning light, Julian's mind churned with questions. Why had the Goddess brought them together? Twice. Now with her lying in his bed, his body stirred with arousal for this whimsical creature.

"Hmm." Cassia stirred and her hands stretched toward him.

"Good afternoon, kitten." Julian's pulse raced as her fingertips brushed his chest. He smiled as her lids fluttered open.

Cassia glanced to her hands resting upon his skin.

"It's okay, Cass," Julian told her.

"I'm sorry." A sleepy exhaustion still showed on her face as she attempted to withdraw her hands.

Julian's fingers slipped around her wrists and she stilled.

"This thing between us … the Goddess brought us together for a reason," he told her.

"Alpha …" The word lingered on her lips, but she didn't finish her thoughts.

His wolf stirred. "Sometimes the path out of danger is for the best. I know things are scary for you, but I'm giving you my word, I won't let them get you. I know Hell far too well … I'm going to find a way to stop this."

"Since I've dreamed of you," her fingertips grazed his chest, "my powers are morphing. I don't know why."

"We'll find out."

"Why is this happening though?" Curled on her side, her knees brushed against his thighs.

"Maybe the Goddess thought it was a good idea. It sure seems that way this morning." Julian smiled as her energy ran through him. His gaze dipped to her lips and back to her eyes. "Although I always classed myself as more of a dog person, I think I've grown to favor cats."

"I'm sorry about last night."

"It's okay."

"I've spent my whole life running. Hiding. Never getting too close, but that doesn't mean I don't fear things. I've just grown accustomed to living this way … I have no choice."

"You have nothing to be sorry for. I wanted you here. I want you here now."

"Why do I feel like this with you? Julian … this … me here … I feel?—"

Julian leaned toward her, closing the distance between them. He gazed into her eyes, his lips mere inches from hers. "How do you feel?"

"Something about you … I feel … I feel like I've known you."

Energy sizzled through him, his thumb trailing over her palm. Her full lips parted, and his wolf urged him to kiss her.

With the temptation too great to resist, Julian's mouth crushed onto hers. His wolf howled, running through his mind.

His cock stiffened as he deepened the kiss. Like honey on his tongue, she tasted sweet, intoxicating … like home. Her body molded against his as she wrapped her hands around his neck. He groaned as her nipples brushed over his skin. Who is this woman? Who is the beautiful creature who's awakening my beast?

Julian groaned as his hand roamed over her bottom and slid between her legs. Wet for him, she moaned as he grazed his fingers through her slick folds. Logic urged him to stop. He shouldn't take advantage of her. What are you doing?

"Ah fuck, Cassia. Maybe we shouldn't do this." The Alpha sucked a breath as he tore his lips from hers. His heart pounded in his chest, his forehead pressed to hers. Confusion swept through his usually decisive mind. Though logic told him to slow down, his wolf paced in frustration. Her sweet scent permeated the room. Claim her.

"I'm sorry. I shouldn't have … we shouldn't have—" Cassia breathed as she pulled away.

"No, no, no, meu amor." He cupped her cheek and gazed into her eyes. "It's just—" I might mark you. Jesus. "I … it's just that Rafe will be here soon. I probably should find him." It was a lie. He'd fuck her in an instant if he didn't stop.

A hint of disappointment flashed over her face but she quickly recovered and released her hands from his. "Can I borrow this?"

"The sheet?" he asked. "Yes … yes of course. I'm sorry."

"Yeah, I think I'd better go." Cassia rolled over, tugged it from the bed and wrapped it around her.

"I'll get you some proper clothes. I'm expecting them soon."

"What? No. You didn't need to do that. I can just go back to my house. Thanks for last night but you're probably right … this thing … us … it's nothing. I've got to go."

"We still need to talk about last night. This isn't over," Julian told her but chose to let her go as she walked out the door.

Julian rolled back into his bed, his rock hard cock throbbing for relief that would not come. He sighed. For the first time in his life, he'd lost control. He had no business ending up in bed with Cassia, let alone kissing her.

What the fuck is happening to me?

* * *

"You look like hell,"Greyson commented.

"Do you ever knock?" Julian stepped into the kitchen and stared at the vampire.

"We brought lunch." Rafe held up two large brown bags. "More like a linner."

"Viktor's love child eats too much," Greyson scoffed.

"I keep tellin' you. I was born a wolf. And I'll live like a wolf." Rafe sat the bags on the table and began rummaging through the kitchen cabinets. "I eat like a wolf!"

"Your boy is getting on my last nerves." Greyson looked to Julian. "Where's my Mititei?"

"He insists on Romanian," Rafe commented. "We're in New Orleans. You need a po boy. What the hell, old man?"

Both Julian and Greyson shot him a look.

"Drop the H word in this house, will ya?"

"Agreed." Greyson's eyes lit up as Rafe placed his order in front of him. "Ah, that's more like it. Thanks, wolf."

Rafe smiled. "The ancient finally agrees. I'm wolf."

"Of course, you're wolf." Julian peeked inside one of the bags. "Did you pick me up any P?o de Queijo?"

"You know it," Rafe replied.

"Obrigado. See, you're getting to know me." The Alpha helped set the containers on the counter. "You sure got a lot of food."

"I'm a growing wolf." Rafe unloaded the sandwiches onto the table. "I got all the po-boys. We got your classic. Shrimp. Roast beef. Oyster. Gator. And we got your red beans, jambalaya, gumbo and of course shrimp creole because you know I like it hot. Oh baby."

"Did you feed today? You know … humans?" Julian attempted to act nonchalant. But the truth was the hybrid would battle to stay both wolf and vampire, to maintain the delicate balance to keep his strength.

"Dude. You know I have no choice."

"And how are you feeling today?" The Alpha asked, concerned.

"I'm feeling good. Mostly anyway. Shifting uses more magick. More shifting drives the thirst," Rafe explained.

"He's doing fine," Greyson told him. "Especially with picking out the food."

"You sure you're a vampire?" Julian reached into the refrigerator and retrieved several bottles of water.

"I appreciate a human meal. Eh." Greyson shrugged. "Nothing can replace blood, but my humanity … I must keep myself tied to the things I once enjoyed."

"Don't get him reminiscing of the old ways," Rafe warned. "We'll be here all day."

Julian set the bottles onto the table. "Never forget where you came from."

"Wait." Rafe stopped mid step holding several plates, silverware teetering precariously on top. A broad smile broke across his face. "I just thought of something. Do you think we're related? Like maybe you're my grand pappy of all Alphas?"

"That'd probably require a DNA test," Julian replied knowing all wolf magick would tie to him or another ancient Alpha.

"I didn't hear a no." Rafe smiled.

Greyson extended his hand to accept a plate and changed the subject. "Where's the girl?"

"Cassia's getting ready … taking a shower."

"Hmm." Greyson smiled as he unwrapped his sandwich and bit into it.

"I hear she's some kind of a next level shapeshifter. Very cool. I'd like to know what she can turn into." Rafe sat down and began scooping a generous spoonful of jambalaya into his bowl.

A corner of Julian's lips ticked upward as he stared at the young wolf. How the hell was he ever going to get him through the transition? Julian opened his mouth to speak but stopped short of engaging, allowing him to continue.

"Yeah, just think if you could turn into anything you wanted. Every single creature on this earth has got weakness and a strength. Do you want to be a bird? A tiger? How about a whale? Yeah, I think I'd like to be a whale." Rafe nodded. "Maybe an orca. The apex predator."

"You are the apex predator." Julian laughed and looked to Greyson who nodded in agreement. "You have all of our lethal traits."

"You know the orcas have been taking out the yachts. I could totally do that."

"My brother won't be happy," Greyson joked.

"Viktor will be fine if his yacht gets attacked. He'd dip out before a drop of water touched a toe."

"He's not wrong." Greyson nodded. "Vik does love his boat though."

"I'm team orca," Rafe declared.

"Same," Julian concurred.

"What would you be?" Rafe asked Greyson.

"Nothing because I'm never going to be an animal so I don't need to worry about it. I can barely tolerate you dogs. No offense."

Julian laughed. "Don't listen to the old man. Bloodsuckers will never know the power of the Goddess the way we do. You may be part vampire but you're all wolf, Rafe. Don't ever forget it."

"So what's your unicorn?" Rafe asked. "What else would you want to shift into?"

"I'm an Alpha, Rafe. It's not in my nature to covet."

"Come on. Just pick one."

"I am what I am. I suppose Greyson and I have that in common. We're far too old for what ifs and there's nothing I'd rather be. My magick is inherent to who I am."

"I suppose it doesn't suck to be Alpha but I'm sticking with orca." Rafe took a bite and kept speaking. "So what's with Cassia? Why do you think these hellhounds are after her?"

"She said the hellhounds have always chased her. I don't know. Maybe it's something to do with chameleons. Her visions kept her safe but I guess meeting me has thrown that off. So while I appreciate her saving my ass the other night, it's somehow put her in danger."

"How is that possible?" Rafe asked. "You really only met her that one time. You barely talked."

"I don't know, but I suspect it's all tied back to my last trip to Hell. Like maybe I picked something up. Bad mojo. A trace of whatever the fuck is down there. Who knows?"

"But why the chameleon?" Greyson asked.

"I don't know. We've got some kind of connection, though." Julian sank his teeth into a po boy, attempting to tame his wolf. His wolf gave a low growl. Something about her…I want her…she's mine.

"Is that what you call it?" Rafe laughed as he took a swig of water. "I think there's something goin' on between you."

"Maybe you're mates," Greyson suggested in a nonchalant tone.

Julian dropped his sandwich. "No."

Rafe snorted and burst out in hearty laughter.

"No," Julian repeated. "Why would you even say something like that?"

"Because this is the way of the world. You're an Alpha. You know how this works. Birds and bees and whatnot. You're a wolf. She's a shifter too. She's got you all out of whack. Things happen. Come on. This is life." The vampire looked to Rafe, who struggled to stop laughing His face reddened as he attempted to catch a breath. "The boy agrees with me."

"Hold up there, Grey-man. Don't drag me into this." He smiled at Julian. "Just kidding. She totally could be his mate. I'm so here for this."

"Jesus Christ." Julian blew out a breath and took another bite of his sandwich. There was no way this could happen after all these years. No way. Too many trips to Hell had damaged him. Too many years alone…it was an unimaginable burden. Stay safe. Protect your sister. It had been his single goal. But now he'd come out into the world and his sister was protected by her own mate. Could he really have found a mate? Why would the Goddess do this to me now?

"Dude. Chill. It's going to be all right." Rafe gestured to Greyson. "Look what you did to him. He's not right."

"I'm fine," Julian lied. I'm so not fucking fine. He changed the subject. "Tell me about the witch."

"Samantha Macquarie. Luca's wife. She'll see us. As long as we're not seeing the witch." Greyson asked.

"Samantha is the witch," Julian countered.

"But Ilsbeth—" Rafe began.

"Nope." Julian shook his head no.

"She saved the wolf," Greyson told him.

"I've been around a long time too, vampire. I've seen all she's done. All favors come at a cost. Sure, Viktor keeps her in line. She owed him a favor. I'm good. No matter how much good she has done over the years, I'm not interested. She's been in Hell too many times. I know for a fact she's not the same. Even before Hell ... she hurt Dimitri. Hard pass."

"Well that sure makes me feel good." Rafe shook his head.

"You're fine. Viktor's blood is stronger than any other…except maybe this one here," Julian told him.

Greyson shrugged in silence but refused to agree. "I've called on Luca and Kade. We're seeing Samantha in a few hours."

"I've texted Logan. We'll go see them too. I want to check in with him to see what he knows, if anything," Julian said.

"You sure about this?" Rafe asked.

"I'm sure. This is Logan's territory. Don't worry. It will be fine."

"But you're the Alpha."

"Yes, I'm one of many. Though my power is stronger than others, I have no pack. And like I said, this is Logan's territory. He might know something that can help us out."

"You should get a pack," Rafe told him.

Greyson set his fork down onto the plate and wiped his mouth. "One day Julian will. Don't argue about this point. You've been on the run for a long time, Alpha. You ran to protect yourself. Your sister. But your true nature will rise to the surface. Your beast will demand its pack. And your wolves will be called to their Alpha."

"Perhaps one day." Julian surprised even himself as he spoke the words. "But they won't be Acadian wolves. I'm not causing shit down here in New Orleans. We found the owner of the tarot cards. Now I'm only staying down here to see a witch and try and get as much information as we can. Something's happening to her and me."

Julian heard her long before she appeared. He stilled as Cassia walked into the room.

"Hey." Her gaze fell to the table. "So, what's the plan?"

"Cass." Julian jumped to his feet and instinctively reached for her hand.

"Everything all right?" she asked.

"Yeah, yeah. Come sit." Julian pulled out a chair for her. She hesitated but he gestured to the table. "It's okay. I'm sure you remember Greyson and this is Rafe."

"Hello," she offered.

"Hold on," Julian rushed over to the cabinet and retrieved a plate for her. "Here. We've got, uh, po boys, jumbo. All kinds of food here."

"Thanks." She smiled up at him and glanced at the ancient vampire.

"He's okay. I promise," Julian assured her.

"I'm a wolf." Rafe told her. "Technically, I'm part vampire. But don't worry. We won't bite you."

"Speak for yourself," Greyson said as he took a bite of a beignet.

"Ignore him. He's grumpy. You know how it gets with the older guys. I mean he looks good on the outside but his cold heart needs a workout."

"Um…okay." Cassia laughed.

"No one is biting anyone," Julian confirmed. He glared at Greyson. "Stop."

"No-bite zone," Rafe agreed.

"I'm not an asshole." Greyson smiled at Cassia. "I always get permission."

Rafe cocked his head and shot him a look of disbelief.

"Okay, okay. I mostly get permission. Eh. Ninety-five percent of the time." He shrugged. "The outliers? They deserved it."

"Thank you very much for not biting me." She trained her focus on Rafe. "But you … you're a hybrid shifter."

Rafe blew out an audible breath, recalling the attack. "Yeah. I was in a fight and almost died. A vampire saved me," Rafe laughed. "An ancient vampire. Viktor. He's big man's brother." Rafe nodded toward Greyson. "I was so close to being gone. And I guess vamp blood just wasn't enough. So he brought in a High Priestess. And you know…I can't lie. She's not the most righteous woman. In fact, he had to get her ass out of Hell to do it. But it worked."

"So you're chameleon like me." Cassia smiled at Rafe. "Special. Strong. Wild."

Her smile radiated like a beam of sun. Julian's heart melted. This creature, full of compassion, understood the wolf's struggle, his gift.

"Maybe a little more wild than I'd like to be, but yeah. I mean you got more than two animals. Who knows? Maybe in a few hundred years I'll sprout a witch."

"No." Both Julian and Greyson said at once.

"Wow. This witch must be pretty special. Maybe she can help me."

"No." Again they both agreed.

"We are seeing a witch though. A better one." There was no fucking way he was taking her to see Ilsbeth. "We're seeing Samantha. The good witch. Ilsbeth's been to Hell one too many times. She's not an option."

"I'm sorry," Cassia said.

Julian picked up a beignet and sighed. "No reason to be sorry. It is what it is. Sometimes the good doesn't get away with staying in the light without visiting the darkness. Sometimes the world needs to be reminded that evil exists. Makes them appreciate the rest."

As the sweet, powdered goodness coated over his tongue, he was reminded of a time long ago. It had been far too long since he'd been to New Orleans. "Delicious."

"I trust you," she admitted in front of the others.

Julian smiled. If all else failed, they'd formed a little trust between them.

"I trust you to pick the right witch," she clarified and bit into her po boy.

"Same," Rafe told him.

"Consensus. I like this. See Grey-man. We've got a plan." Julian reached for his water. "Teamwork. I like this."

"It appears we're off to see a witch."

* * *

Julian had never beena fan of witches. Sure, he knew how the vampire had saved the wolf. Magick. Dark High Priestess magick. Ilsbeth had been a long reigning High Priestess for a reason. She dealt with demons. Quid pro quo. Spells for money…favors…blood…even wolves.

The Alpha knew that one day he might come face to face with Ilsbeth again. But it wasn't going to be today. Still, anything having to do with witch magick deserved caution.

As he stepped out of the car and reached for Cassia's hand, a protective emotion rushed over him, one he usually reserved only for family. Something about the chameleon was influencing his wolf. But logic won over and he brushed it off, focusing on his surroundings. Though he didn't sense evil, the sizzle of magick crackled in the air.

Vampires. Wolves. Witches. Most paranormal creatures, ripe with their own special magick, lived their life in the light. Like the humans they walked among, they kept to their business, enjoyed their lives, rarely causing harm to others. But also like humans, a small percentage fell into darkness, never able to crawl out of the pit of destruction that followed.

They all shared the craving for something they didn't have, something they coveted. Their desires drove them to do whatever it took to attain their goal. Once humans or paranormals allowed evil to settle in their hearts, they rarely found their way back to the light.

Julian had never met Samantha Macquarie, but he'd heard the prophesy long ago of a ginger witch who'd rule New Orleans. A novice, she'd quickly ascended to lead the grand coven. But he could have never imagined her being strong enough to hold onto her title, or that the mighty Ilsbeth would fall so fast and hard.

And though it was rumored Samantha helped Ilsbeth recover from her time in Hell, Julian suspected Ilsbeth would once again try to claim her crown. Though Samantha had bested demons, would she ever be able to keep Ilsbeth from taking New Orleans once again?

Like many ancient creatures, it appeared Ilsbeth had grown stronger, strong enough to save Rafe. He suspected Ilsbeth would grow to covet the young witch, her power. And though Viktor had trusted her enough to help with Rafe, would she continue down the path of helping others or return to the way of the demons?

Today, however, Julian found solace knowing Samantha still ran New Orleans. As he stepped toward the mansion, he sensed her wards. "Feel that?"

"Yeah." Cassia shot him a look of consternation. "You sure this is the good witch?'

"Ilsbeth's energy remains," Greyson grumbled.

"She has a distinctive vibe, but we're good." Rafe bounded up the steps. "She's not here. It's cool."

"She's not to be trifled with." Julian turned to them. "Never underestimate her."

"Listen to the Alpha," the vampire suggested. "She's gone after wolves before."

"Whatever." Rafe rolled his eyes and laughed. "She's not getting me. I'm her son."

"I don't sense evil though," Cassia noted as she placed her palm against the home's wooden exterior. "Just pure power."

The sound of the great wooden door creaking open drew Julian's attention. He stepped in front of Cassia, shielding her from whatever lay beyond it. Several dozen black moths fluttered into the night.

"I'm so sorry." A woman dressed in a long grey gown waved the remaining insects away from her face.

"We're here to see Samantha Macquarie," Greyson told her.

"Yes, yes. Please, come in. The High Priestess is expecting you." She gestured for them to enter and quickly shut the door. "Sorry again about the moths. We're deep into training our baby witches and we had a mishap."

Julian looked to Cassia who raised her eyebrows at him. A corner of his mouth ticked upward.

"I told Jenny moss…not moths. Now we've got to air out the entire mansion," she huffed. Hundreds of black and white moths of various sizes flew about the spacious cathedral ceiling foyer. "Now how am I supposed to get all those down?"

Rafe laughed. "Could have been worse. Might have conjured a moose."

"Beginner witches are the devil." The witch released an exasperated breath.

"Hey, now. Let's leave the D word out of this," Greyson told her.

"I agree with the vamp." Julian nodded.

"No to the H?" She put her hand on a cocked hip.

"No H. No D. And definitely no I." Ilsbeth. Julian raised an eyebrow at her.

Recognition of his meaning flashed in her eyes but she quickly recovered as if she had no idea of what he meant. "Well I suppose y'all don't like alphabet soup either. Come this way. The High Priestess is waiting."

"Doing renovations?" Julian asked, taking note of the blue painter's tape lining the crown molding. The walls were spotted with indentations and patches of white spackle.

"Yes. We're in the midst of a full renovation of all the rooms. The High Priestess believes in clearing bad juju. Out with the old and such."

Greyson ran his finger over a layer of sawdust coating a pile of neatly stacked wainscoting.

"This way, please." She gestured to a long hallway that had boxes stacked from floor to ceiling.

"Moving?" Julian inquired.

"No, no. Everything's fine. Just putting some things into storage." A cascade of laughter sounded from a not-too-distant room. "Sorry. Full house today. Class is in session."

It wasn't lost on him that she failed to make eye contact. She's lying.

"Where we goin'?" Greyson asked.

"Oh well…you know how it is. The High Priestess wanted to make sure you have the utmost privacy. With everyone here tonight…the chamber's the best for you all." The witch reached for the wall and tapped it. A hidden door popped open, revealing a clandestine staircase. "I'll leave you here. Follow the stairs. She'll meet you in the chamber."

Julian glanced into the darkened entrance and stepped inside, running his fingertips along the roughened wall. "Salt?"

"Yes, it's both decorative and functional. Please. The High Priestess is waiting. Just follow the steps up into the chamber. Private spaces for private conversations. It's best. Go on now."

Julian took Cassia's hand. "Stay behind me. Greyson?—"

"I got her." The vampire walked close behind her and Rafe followed.

Julian ascended, one deliberate step after another. The salt slightly dimmed his power, but he suspected he remained far more magical than anyone in the house. A hex or a spell. It appeared the High Priestess had built some kind of a safe room…but not quite safe enough.

Julian caught sight of the High Priestess standing in the far corner of the room. With her back turned to him, she lit large red pillar candles around an altar.

A tall brooding vampire appeared from the left and blocked his path. "Luca Macquarie."

"Greyson," Luca acknowledged.

The ancient vampire nodded. "This is Julian. The Alpha I spoke to Kade about."

Julian nodded toward the imposing vampire. "Thank you for seeing us today."

"I'm Rafe." The wolf smiled with his eyebrows raised.

"I'm Cassia."

"You sure these walls work to keep out hellhounds?" Julian asked.

"It will keep out more than hellhounds, if necessary. But I don't want any trouble here today."

"Luca." The red-headed witch turned to face them. With an ethereal grace, she walked toward them. Her emerald green dress contrasted with her pale skin and blue eyes. She smiled at Cassia, and then reached for Luca. She gave a gentle tug on his arm. "Please forgive my ever-over-protective husband. We've had a few incidents lately."

Julian exchanged a glance with Greyson. "We appreciate you seeing us. And I promise you there will not be any trouble today."

"It's okay. Please. Come sit." Samantha gestured to a large black velvet semicircular sofa. She and Luca sat in matching wingback chairs directly across from them.

Julian sat first and held onto Cassia's hand as she slid next to him. He nodded at Greyson who took his place by her other side.

The Alpha looked to the pink ceiling illuminated by candlelight. "Nice set up, you've got here. Salt, yes?"

"Indeed. Himalayan salt panels imported from blessed mines in Pakistan. It's beautiful isn't it?" She smiled. "Of course, I'm working to seal every pore of the room. Keep it well protected against outsiders."

"You said you've had some incidents?" Julian asked.

"Yes, well." Samantha looked to Luca who nodded. "With Ilsbeth regaining her power, having been to Hell and whatnot…I'm taking care to make sure she doesn't become a problem."

"It appears the failed memory stage of her recovery is over. Is she back entertaining demons?" Greyson held up a finger. "No, no, no. Just half-demons. I suppose that's okay?"

"So I hear. It's not lost on me that she used to head the coven," Samantha commented. "But it's been some time since she was the High Priestess. I don't want her corrupting any other witches."

"You're wise to protect yourself." Julian agreed the witch remained dangerous. Ilsbeth had always been savvy.

"I've heard she's on the party circuit. Enjoying her carefree post-Hell lifestyle. Let's hope that's where she stays," Greyson commented.

"Momma witch better stay away from the wolves." Rafe crossed his arms over his chest.

"You have her blood?" Samantha pinned Rafe with a cold stare.

"Yes but…hey, I'm nothing like her. It was mostly Viktor who saved me. And he's good. Mostly anyway. No vampire blood or witch blood for that matter is going to take over my true nature."

"Which is?" she asked.

"Wolf, of course." Rafe shrugged, his voice drew quiet.

"He's with me," Julian told her. "He's good."

"That's right. He is," Greyson agreed.

"But is he? He has her blood," Samantha noted.

"We didn't come here today to talk about Rafe—" Julian began.

"No, Jules. She's right. I mean…I feel fine but…can you tell?" Rafe whispered to Samantha.

"Give me your hands," she directed.

Rafe looked to Julian for approval. The Alpha had been certain of his innocence. While the young hybrid edged toward the wild, he'd always submitted, never allowing the bloodthirst to rule him. He'd been born a wolf. He'd forever be a wolf…someday an Alpha.

"You do this for you. But I know who you are, Rafe. You're a good person. Ilsbeth's blood only gave you the magick you needed to heal. Trust me on that," Julian told him. "But you can do what's right for you."

"I've gotta know now." Rafe stood and walked to the witch. "For the record, this wasn't supposed to be about me today."

"It's okay," she assured him, extending her hands toward him. "Sometimes we all need assurance."

Julian's beast released a low growl. Easy.

"It's all right, Alpha. Your wolf is safe with me." Samantha stood and placed her hands onto his palms. Rafe looked to Julian who nodded. You're okay. Your Alpha will protect you. In the moment, Julian recognized Rafe as someone he'd never known…beta…pack. Mine.

"Your light shines bright, wolf. I see him running through the woods. And there you are, laughing. Your fangs drop…yes, sir. You are vampire as well. The strength of an ancient runs through your veins. But the dark? No darkness." Samantha opened her eyes and smiled. She cupped his cheek. "No Ilsbeth. The light is within your heart."

"See, there ya go, wolf. Now can you sit your damn ass down so we can get to what we're here for," Greyson muttered.

Julian smiled at Rafe. "You're good. Trust me next time."

"Yeah, yeah."

Samantha returned to her seat and focused on Julian. "Tell me Alpha. Why are you here?"

"I…we," he glanced at Cassia. "We've got a few issues. Something or someone is after Cassia. I was able to save her once but soon after there was a demonic attack at my home. A fire. Cassia?—"

"I'm a chameleon."

"A chameleon. How lovely to meet you."

"I can change into most creatures…although I'm mostly partial to cats, but that's not important. The thing is…since I've been an adult, I've always had hellhounds after me. In my dreams mostly. Until recently."

"Hellhounds? How have you managed to survive without intervention?"

"I've tried some spells and wards over the years. But the only thing that kept me truly safe was my visions."

"Visions?"

"Yeah, I've had visions for as long as I can remember. They are usually only for me. But the other day…I dreamed of the Alpha…I dreamed of the fire. He was in Idaho. I was in New Orleans. I went to him, but I wasn't soon enough."

"You went to him?"

"Astral projection. It's not something I do often but I can do it. It's like part of me can go. I left him a tarot card." She smiled. "I don't normally do that either but I didn't want him to think I was a dream. I was a warning."

"Why not just text him?"

"We'd never exchanged information."

"When I found her in the woods, she'd been hurt. I took her to the hospital and she skipped out. I didn't know she was a chameleon at the time," Julian explained.

"I see." Samantha closed her eyes and took a deep breath. "Why Idaho, Cassia?"

"Private gig. Someone had paid for my services. It doesn't happen often, but I am good at tarot. They'd paid for my ticket and everything. It was supposed to be a surprise for his wife."

"I take it it didn't go well."

"I felt the evil as soon as I entered the home. They were humans but there was this darkness. Demonic or dark magick. I don't know. I just know that as soon as I attempted to leave, they began to chase me. I tried to shift but I couldn't. Whatever they were doing had messed with my magick. It kept me from shifting."

"Rafe had recognized the tarot card designer, so we went to New Orleans and we found Cassia. But not too soon after, the hellhounds came and another fire started at her work. They almost got her," Julian told the High Priestess.

"So you're saying you brought hellhounds to New Orleans?" Luca asked.

"Possibly. I believe they were here for me. The thing I don't know is what they want. And since I met Julian…my visions aren't working to protect me anymore. Something is happening…I feel it."

"We need to buy time. She can't hide out in a salt room forever. We need time to find the people who attacked her in Idaho. We have to find out what they want and who the humans are who started this chain of unfortunate events. We have to eliminate them."

"Killing humans. Now, that's the spirit," Luca laughed.

"Luca." Samantha shot him an admonishing look.

"It felt demonic," Cassia told the High Priestess. "But I can't really remember much from that night. I don't know why they'd come for me. The hellhounds though…they are my main concern at the moment."

"In my studies, I've read of chameleons, but admittedly have never met one until now. Tell me about your parents."

"They met long ago in British Columbia. But this is my problem. It started with me. No one else has visions. Or hellhounds. I've stayed away from home for a long time. They live in Hawaii now but I don't dare go visit them. I can't put them in danger. And now…I feel like I've put others in danger…Julian."

"Your species is rare. But they say chameleons hold the magick to all beings."

"My mom didn't want to talk about it. It's just something we always were. We have no pack. Many of us often live among humans. It's a solitary life. My sister, Tessa. She recently joined up with a pack of bears. She's more out in the open than I am but there's none like her in the bear pack. She fits in though…they socialize in small groups, not too much for her to handle."

"You?"

"My circle is small. It's hard to make friends. Or keep them. Every few years I have to move on. I can't stay in one place very long."

"Do you have any idea what might be happening? Is it possible our magick is connected somehow?" Julian asked, already knowing the answer.

"You know how these things are. The Goddess has rules. Take vampires for instance. Vampires drink blood. They can heal with their blood. Vampires typically bond with humans. But sometimes witches." Samantha winked at Luca. "Vampires cannot procreate…except sometimes they can with witches. Wolves mate with wolves…" She pinned Julian with a stare. "But sometimes they can and do mate with other shifters, depending on the magick."

"What are you trying to say?" Julian knew full well what she was fucking saying but no. Just a big nope. This is not happening.

"Yes, magick sometimes bends those hard rules. I mean look at Luca and me. Not only did we bond, but we also have a child which is virtually impossible."

"No wait, are you trying to say that ..." Cassia's eyebrows furrowed in thought. Her eyes widened as she processed the witch's words. "No. No! No, that's not possible."

"I'm just saying there may be many possibilities. I didn't say I wouldn't help guide you. But I encourage you both to explore and think very hard about what I've said. Nature will have her way."

"Yes, well, about those protections—" Julian changed the subject.

"So here's what I do know. Not all hellhounds are as they appear," Samantha continued.

"How do you mean?" Julian raised an eyebrow at her.

"It all comes back to how the hellhounds were created." Samantha rose and crossed the room, reaching for a large bowl of black bamboo sea salt. She set it on the table in between them and knelt. She flattened her hands into the granules, appearing to rinse her hands in it. The black salt glided over her fingertips. "The hellfire of the fae. It's its own magick. Forged deep in Hell it creates. But the thing is that the dark force who controls Hell, we all know he once was an angel. So try as he may, he couldn't shed all of the light."

Samantha cupped a scoop of black salt into her right palm and closed her fingers around it. "So sometimes, no matter how hard the devil tries to control his kingdom, goodness is created from the hellfire." The witch turned her hand, releasing the salt, which had transformed white as snow.

"I assure you it's no trick. You see hellhounds sparked of hellfire, but they all come to their existence in their own way. When a hellhound chases you, it has a reason. Perhaps it's been sent to capture you. But it also is capable of seeking help."

"I don't think these things want help and even if they did, I don't know what I could do."

"You will need to make a choice to keep running or take a stand." Samantha reached under the table and retrieved a black velvet bag. She held it over the bowl and filled it with salt. "Keep this with you. It will deter the hounds from hurting you. If they get close, a mere sprinkle will send them back to Hell."

"Thank you," Cassia said.

"Any idea who would be after a chameleon?" Julian asked. "Those people in Idaho … the humans. They clearly had something planned for her."

"She's a rare creature. Perhaps they are collectors. Or they could be working with or for demons."

"If they had a taste of her energy …" Julian began. They'd want to drain her. "They shot at her that night. She could have died."

"She is unmated," Samantha noted.

"What does that have to do with it?" Cassia's eyes flared with anger.

"Your power is unusual, unique. You're like a virgin creature to them. Not sexually speaking, but you're available."

"She's not available," Julian corrected.

"I'm not certain of their origin but if you can investigate and find any clues, I might be of assistance. It's hard to tell. To be frank, there's a lot of bad people in this world, both humans and paranormal." Samantha focused on Cassia. "Your powers are interesting. The visions are outside of the parameters of what most chameleons can do. You're gifted. It's possible they are drawn to it. The hellhounds, though … I'm sorry but at some point, you will have to face them."

"I don't know about that." Cassia shook her head.

"As for you and the Alpha, perhaps the fire at his home was a warning. Or possibly even an intentional attack. If Cassia's attackers see you as a threat. If they didn't see her leave … well then, you were the last person they saw. I'm sorry I can't provide more than that."

"Is there a spell or hex you can do to keep them away from us for just a while? Something besides the salt?" Julian asked.

"The salt will buy you a few days. But maybe," Samantha stood and blew out a breath and crossed her arms over her chest. "I don't know. Maybe there's something I can conjure up to help keep them from attacking. It's not any kind of a quick fix, but it may give you more time to find out what they want."

"I can't believe this is happening." Cassia rubbed her eyes.

"Do you mind giving me a few pieces of your hair?" Samantha asked Julian. "I need to tie my protection spell to you."

"Hair. Blood. Whatever it takes." Julian's heart pounded in his chest. Something about all this had been fate. Cassia. She can't be my mate. His father had always told him he'd have a mate who'd change the world. The world, not just his world.

As he looked to Cassia, he sensed her pain. He reached out her, placing his palm on her shoulder and released his power. She lifted her head slowly, her eyes meeting his. She knew.

Fuck, he didn't know what to do. Years and years of being on his own, he'd never counted on finding a mate. And she wasn't even a wolf. Goddess almighty. What the hell am I supposed to do now? Without pack nor territory, his nomadic lifestyle wasn't exactly desirable.

"I'm okay." Her lips quivered through a muffled whisper. "I think we should go back … home."

Home?"I think we should go now."

"Your hair." Samantha pointed an athame directly toward him. With a flick of her fingers, she extended its obsidian handle.

Julian accepted it, quickly cutting off a thatch of his unruly hair. He turned to Cassia who'd already tugged off a long strand and handed it to the witch.

"I will work on this. Give me a minute." Samantha accepted the donations, walked to her altar and deposited the hair into a small bowl.

As Samantha began to chant and add ingredients, Julian reached for Cassia's hand, his heart tight with emotion as she wiped away her tears.

Logic warned him not to deny a rightful mate, yet his stubborn streak would fight it. Of all the timing in the world, why would the Goddess do this to him now?

But as he glanced to Cassia, her amber eyes glassed with tears, and his heart tightened with emotion. Her energy radiated clear through and around him, and his wolf growled.

Julian broke his focus and looked to Samantha who raised the smoking bowl up to the air. The witch grimaced and his gut told him something had gone wrong.

"I'm sorry—this protection spell. It's not taking, the magick of whoever's coming for you is too strong. I'm going to need blood."

"What?" Cassia rubbed her forehead.

"Just a drop. It's nothing really. I promise you won't feel it," Samantha promised.

"I just … I'm sorry. I really do appreciate you helping us." Cassia pressed to her feet.

Julian smiled up at her. "That makes two of us."

As they approached the witch, Julian's hand brushed the small of Cassia's back. "I'll go first." Samantha struck like lightning, piercing his finger. "Hey now. Easy."

Cassia laughed. "Okay, mister tough guy."

"Just kidding." Julian held his finger up to the air revealing a tiny dot of blood.

Cassia clenched her jaw and gritted out a smile as the knife pierced her finger. "So yeah, that still hurts."

"This could save your life." Samantha began to chant as the single drop of chameleon's blood splashed into the cauldron.

Julian tugged Cassia away from the witch. Smoke drifted around them, licking their faces. Flashes of bright white light circled around both Cassia and the Alpha.

"What is this?" Julian asked as the smoke encircled his hands. Though he stretched his fingers, he couldn't see them moving.

"It feels … good. Ah …" Cassia leaned her head backward, encased in the light.

Julian couldn't deny it. The light, blessed with all the goodness of the Goddess, warmed him from the outside in, throughout every cell of his body. As it dissipated, he sucked a breath, still reeling from the experience.

"Okay. Now that's some cool shit." Rafe clapped his hands together.

Greyson shot him a disapproving stare.

"What? Bruh, that was hella cool. I mean, it would be pretty scary if she wasn't on our side."

Greyson rolled his eyes and looked to Samantha with his no-nonsense demeanor frozen in place. "So are they good?"

Julian blew out a breath. "Hey. I was having a moment."

"It was awesome." Cassia wore a huge smile.

"It's protection," Samantha explained. "All the goodness. The pure essential life from the Goddess. But it all comes from within you both. It's a physical manifestation of what's already in you. It's an amplification of the light. But none of this…not the salt … not this spell is forever."

"It buys us time." Julian said.

"There's something I need to tell you. This." Samantha looked into the bowl and turned it around to reveal a letter formation at the bottom. A. "This. I don't know if the Goddess intends this as a warning or advice. You may want to reach out to the fae to see if he has knowledge of these hellhounds. There's a creature in this town that understands hellfire but he's?—"

"Kellan. Yeah, I know him." He was dangerous but useful at times.

"I don't know if that's a good idea," Greyson advised.

"Kellan used to keep to Frenchman, but he's been moving every few months. Kade tracks him," Luca divulged. "Personally I don't trust his ass. He gets people into too many situations making promises he can't keep."

"We could rush him without warning. Demand a response about what's going on with the hellhounds. Do it on neutral territory so he can't try dragging one of us into his fiery play pits," Julian suggested.

"It's on," Rafe said in agreement.

"I've a mind to strangle the life out of that fae," Greyson growled.

"Not before we get answers. We start with Kellan and then go to Idaho. Track down who was in that house. This shit is coming to an end. No more fires. No more chasing. They aren't getting Cassia . They are the hunted now, boys and girls. I'm putting an end to this bullshit."

"Same." Cassia agreed. "I'm done running. I want to fight these things."

"Believe in yourself," Samantha told her. "These hellhounds are coming to you for a reason. Trust your instincts. You've got a couple of days until they wake up and you lose your protective shields. Until then try to meditate. Maybe something will come to you."

* * *

"I could have flashedus all over to Logan," Greyson complained. "I don't like sitting in the back."

"Don't be a baby, dude. You get to hang back here with me. Relax," Rafe told the ancient vampire.

"I offered to switch seats," Cassia reminded him.

"No, no, no. You need this time close to your … you know, near Julian." Greyson rolled his eyes.

"You guys are the ones with the super juice. Y'all look like you're glowing like Christmas bulbs," Rafe told them.

"Easy." Julian smiled.

"It felt so good, though. I feel like I could go anywhere or do anything." Cassia's smile brimmed ear to ear.

"Ah, that's good because we're going to see an Alpha, He's having a get together and invited us."

"Logan?" she asked.

"Yes, have you met him?" Julian asked, a low vibe of jealousy pitted in his stomach. He didn't want her anywhere around any wolves. Mark her, his wolf told him. Julian shook it off and concentrated on driving.

"Of course I know of him, but I keep a low profile down here. I don't shift in front of others."

Yet.

The full moon drew near and if they were truly mates, he'd expect she'd be tempted. But until she was ready, he wouldn't force her. Within a pack, they'd all feel compelled to shift, to release the magick within and run with the pack.

* * *

"Alpha."Julian extended his hand and shook the wolf's hand. With his eyes locked on his, the men simply acknowledged each other without challenge.

"Comment ?a va?" Logan returned his firm handshake.

"?a va bien. Thanks for having us. I don't mean to bring trouble to your doorstep," Julian told him. "We're under protection from the High Priestess at the moment."

"You're always welcome in Acadian Wolves. If Samantha says you're good, you're good. Besides, with the full moon coming, no way hellhounds will come sniffin' around the pack. Our energy is far too powerful together. The place is fresh with wards."

"You sure you're cool with this?" Julian asked.

"I insist." Logan ushered them inside the enormous log cabin mansion. "Out here in the bayou, we're good, though. We've got some old ass magick protecting things."

"Samantha?"

"She's warded things but it's a big area. We must draw on the power of the pack to repel dark magick. Ever since Ilsbeth put a spell on Dimitri…we don't take any chances. Over time, we added a few tricks to our bag."

"Ilsbeth?" Julian stopped mid-step; his gut twisted at the sound of her name. "She's not around though, right? Just checking. I know everyone seems to be enthralled with her turnaround. I'm not one of those people, however."

"Hell no." Logan waved off the idea and laughed. "No way Dimitri would ever allow that to happen."

"You sure? She's been busy."

"Hundred percent. Samantha drops by now and then to throw up wards but besides her, none of the witches are welcome around these parts. After what happened to Dimitri, we keep things tight."

"Can't say I blame you."

"We got pack rules now."

"What sorts of rules?"

"You can fuck em' if you're feeling it, but no bringing them around pack. I can't tell grown wolves what to do on their own time. But when they're here, it's a no go. It's too dangerous. It's harsh but Samantha knows the deal. She knows what happened to Dimitri, what the hell that witch did to him." Logan waved them into a huge family room and turned to Julian. "She also knows that if one of her witches falls for a wolf, they could attempt to break the mate bond. Go to Ilsbeth. We might not be able to prevent things from happening but we sure as shit aren't gonna encourage it."

Julian nodded as he reached for Cassia's hand. Her gaze caught his and she placed her palm in his. He shot her a smile, knowing she wasn't pack. Not a wolf, the clever chameleon shifted into whatever form she wished. For the brief seconds he reflected, his gut told him they were more alike than different no matter their species.

"Cassia Luna." Logan looked to her and back to Julian.

"Alpha. I'm not sure if you remember. We met several years ago when I first came to New Orleans. Marcel?—"

"Of course, our chameleon. Marcel told me about you. The only one of your kind in New Orleans. Nice to finally meet you." Logan smiled and extended his hand to her.

Julian nodded, watching carefully as the Alpha touched Cassia. His wolf growled in the back of his mind, but he tamed the beast. Julian and Logan exchanged a knowing look.

"I appreciate you inviting us. We're trying to sort out what's happening."

"Of course. Come sit down. The pack is having a run later tonight. Wynter just got back from the hospital and is upstairs getting Ava ready for bed."

"You have children?" Cassia asked.

"Yeah, yeah. Ava's too young to come out with pack. A few more years though. Can't wait until she shifts." Logan waved as a ruggedly handsome man entered the room. "Hey, D. What's happenin', bro? How was Maui?"

The Alpha and Dimitri exchanged a burly hug. "Bruh … dude. It was killer."

"Can't wait to hear about it later. Hey, D. This is Julian. He's the?—"

"King of wolves." Dimitri lowered his gaze and gave a slight bow with a smile. He held his hand out to Julian. "Honor to meet you."

"I appreciate your respect but I'm no king. That was my father."

"Prince?" Dimitri's eyebrow raised.

"Yeah, maybe at one time, but now, I'm just me." Alpha. Julian glanced at Rafe and Greyson. "Rafe is pack."

The hybrid wolf shot him a broad smile and Julian knew in that very second, he'd adopted him. Though once Hunter's wolf, with each second, Rafe grew on him. Like it or not, they'd bonded.

"This is Greyson."

The vampire nodded but kept his distance.

"An ancient," Dimitri commented with a small laugh. "Hell yeah. All right now. This pack house is turnt up! All right, Alpha. Ha! Well, it's growing close to the full moon. Few more days. Two vampires in the pack house. Things are about to get interesting."

"Vampires?" Julian's focus snapped to Greyson who'd surely sensed one of his kind.

"Dominque. She's one of Kade's vampires." Logan told them. "Luca thought maybe she could benefit from being around wolves instead of vampires all the time. I don't know. She gets along with Wynter and Ava. She's been helping out. She had a rough go of things. You know how Hell can fuck with people."

"That I do," Julian acknowledged.

"She's all right. I prefer to think of her as misunderstood." Logan smiled.

"It's kind of you to take her in," Greyson acknowledged.

"Kade doesn't think she should be alone right now. You know he and Syd are busy with the baby. Samantha's got her hands full with the coven. Someone's gotta keep an eye on her and Wynter offered. You know, I probably wouldn't have agreed but it's hard to say no to my mate. She's got a soft heart."

"I appreciate you looking after her. She didn't deserve what happened. None of it." The sadness in Greyson's eyes flickered for but a moment.

"No worries. Dom is fine here," Logan assured the vampire. The Alpha turned to address Julian. "Hey … let's relax and enjoy the night. I'm honored to have you visit, Alpha. You're a legend. You, your energy, it's good for pack. I've got everything arranged. We've got a room for you here. An en suite if you will."

"No, you don't have to do that. We can go back to my place later," Julian told him.

"No, I insist. Soak up some time in the bayou. It's good for the soul. We set up rooms for Greyson and Rafe too." Logan turned to Rafe and Greyson. "I have a couple of donors on their way over."

"Appreciate it," Greyson said.

"Hey, let's head into the dining room. Gustave and Octavia have cooked us up a boil tonight."

"You don't have to?—"

"When I said it's an honor to have royalty here, I meant it. I've wanted to meet you for a while now. Your sister and Hunter … we're all family."

"I appreciate your hospitality." Julian glanced to Cassia. He wrapped a protective arm around her. Though he sensed Logan's authenticity, he struggled to trust anyone.

As they entered the dining room, a familiar spicy scent teased his nose. He smiled as he caught sight of a burly man dumping a steaming concoction onto the newspaper-covered dining table until the entire surface was covered in a cornucopia of bright red crawfish, crabs, andouille sausage, corn and potatoes.

"Y'all sit down now." The man instructed. Steam wisped from the metal colander he still held in his hands. "Viens manger."

"Gustave, I've had some envie for crawdads." Logan inhaled deeply. "You stayin'?"

"Nah, y'all enjoy. We've gotta get to Tavi's ma-maw's up in Melrose. She's havin' a party this weekend and needs some help."

The Alpha, Cassia, Greyson and Rafe settled at the table. Julian's stomach growled as the steam teased his nose. He was about to thank Logan when the vampiress entered the room and announced her presence.

"Well, now. What have we got here? New wolves? Very interesting." A tall beautiful redheaded woman stood with a hand on her cocked hip. She narrowed her eyes on Julian, a corner of her crimson lips turning upward. "Two Alphas. How darling. I do hope there won't be any pissing contests tonight. Or maybe I do. Ah…the thought of hot men getting into it. It never gets old." Her head whipped around to stare at Greyson. "Well, hello, Gramps. Glad you could make it back to New Orleans."

"Y'all gonna behave tonight, Dom?" Logan asked in a tone that told everyone it wasn't optional.

Dominique laughed. She reached for the back of a chair and sat down. "Of course, darlin'. As always, Alpha."

"I'm glad you're feeling better, dragul meu. You mingle with wolves here?"

"Samantha's a darling but a girl gets tired of being around newlyweds. I needed a change of scenery," she replied reaching for a bottle.

"Sorry for the chaos. Wynter will be down soon. Ah," Logan's eyes lit up as a petite brunette woman entered the room. "Here she is. Everyone this is my beautiful mate, Wynter. Wynter, this is Julian."

"Thank you for your generosity." Julian nodded and gestured to the group. "This is Cassia. You know Rafe. Greyson. He's an ancient."

"What is wrong with you people? Why is it always about my age?"

"Because it's true." Rafe laughed.

"Age isn't nothing but a number, wolf."

"Sorry I'm late." Wynter smiled as Logan reached for her and kissed her cheek. "Our sweet but busy daughter has an early play date tomorrow and it took us a bit to find the perfect outfit. The babysitter is going to finish getting her off to bed."

"Did you read, ‘Wolves over the Moon'? Again?"

"You know it. It's her favorite. Ava is a small but mighty force in this household."

"That she is," Logan agreed.

"I'm so sorry I wasn't down here on time. Is anyone else coming?" Wynter asked.

"No, just us."

"Dominque. You okay?" Wynter reached for the vampire's arm and briefly touched it. "It's a lot of peopling for you?"

"Dreadfully, yes." Dominque made quick work of uncorking a mystery bottle. She looked to Greyson, poured the dark red liquid into a wine glass and slid it toward him.

"Thank you." He nodded.

"Of course. It's a very fine year," She looked toward Greyson and raised her glass at him.

Rafe smiled at her and she looked to the vampire. "Am I missing something?"

Greyson slid his glass to Rafe. "He's a hybrid."

"Interesting. Well, young hybrid. Welcome to the club." She poured herself and Greyson more blood and handed him a glass.

"Noroc!" The vampire raised his glass in the air and took a long draw. "Ah, yes, not too shabby, but will you join me for a donor?"

Dominique stared at him. "Depends. Is this a request or an order from my ancient?"

Julian glanced at Greyson. The vampire had motivation for everything he did. Something about Dominque…she was of his blood?

"It's an invitation, of course. Rafe will be joining us as well."

Dominique rolled her eyes and released a loud sigh. "I suppose I can't say no."

"Well there, that's marvelous." Greyson laughed and nodded toward Logan.

"How about we eat?" Wynter suggested, wearing a tight smile.

Julian sensed her unease and couldn't blame her. It was unlikely any of the vampires or wolves, including Logan, had experienced the power of two ancients together.

"Dig in," Logan said as he ripped the head off a crawfish and sucked the juice from its head. "It's the only way to eat em'. Go ahead, Alpha. Show her how it's done."

Julian laughed and winked at Cassia. He anticipated this was going to be an interesting visit to say the least.

* * *

Julian stared at the fire,enjoying the silence of the evening. Wynter had taken Cassia to the guest house to get her situated. Rafe had gone with Greyson and Dominque to secure donors.

Logan's voice stirred him from his quiet contemplation. "The wolf's gonna be all right."

"Yeah, he's adjusting. Viktor, he's a bastard but he saved him. I was pissed when Greyson first brought him, but I guess he's grown on me. He's strong-willed. His wolf wars with the vampire inside him, but he's getting control."

"His wolf will always be stronger," Logan assured him. "The blood of an ancient and High Priestess runs through his veins. He's destined for great things."

"He's going to be an Alpha one day, I know it for certain. Not anytime soon but one day, his time shall come. I know this to be true."

"And how about you, Alpha? It's rumored you've been rogue. Wolves aren't meant for solitude. I don't know how you've done it all these years." Logan sat in the chair across from him and held his glass up, watching the flames flicker through his cognac.

"Sometimes there's no other choice. You do it for family. And then one day, you're just doing it. You become oblivious to that inner desire to rule your own pack. Instead … you rule your own world. It's not all bad," he pondered. "I've traveled all over, learning different cultures and languages. I've kept loneliness at bay with a string of bad behaviors, but whiskey and women only go so far, and you realize it's too destructive. You immerse yourself in hobbies and food. But first, you return to your soul. Who you are at the core. Your wolf."

"I know what it feels like to deny my Alpha. You surely haven't done so but to have no pack? I couldn't have survived this long without one. From the time I was a pup, I've been part of a pack."

"At your core, you are wolf. It is the only true thing in our existence." Julian looked to his hands, fisting then stretching his fingers. "I once spent ten years running as wolf in Ladkah. Not with shifters, but our brothers, the wolves. It was just me and the animals. I lived as beast, roaming the Himalayan plateau. They'd lost their Alpha in an avalanche. I stayed with them for years until the true Alpha sought to fight me. Then it was time for me to leave, to return to a more human existence."

Logan shook his head, took a long draw of his drink and exhaled loudly. "Ten years? Jesus, Julian."

"Yeah. I only shifted a couple of times each year to keep my magick fresh."

"I don't think I could do that."

"You are the Alpha in your home and pack."

"I'm just sayin'. That's hard core find yourself shit you're talking about."

"But it isn't. It's no more difficult than living in luxury." Julian gestured to the room. "When we transform as people, we live as people. We don't look back…we savor life. Savor our meals…like the one we just had. We lust. We fall in…" Julian stared though the golden liquid in his snifter as his mind drifted to his chameleon. The ice around his heart was thawing with each second of her presence. He shook off the warmth that reminded him of weakness. "We fall in love with life. As wolf, if given the freedom to indulge in our nature, to stay wolf as long as we want, we find comfort in what we have. We don't stop to think what we don't want. We just exist."

"Not many of us have to go to those extremes," Logan challenged.

"Yet that is what got me through all these years. I suspected one day my sister would find her mate. But this evil that attempted so long ago to destroy the wolves…it still exists. Something about this situation with Cassia. I?—"

"She's your mate?" Logan asked without hesitation.

Julian maintained a look of indifference while responding. "I suspect there is a possibility."

"She's a shifter, so it's possible."

"I haven't talked about it with her. Hell," Julian laughed and shook his head, his mind still spinning with the thought of it. "I just met her a few weeks ago. I don't even know how?—"

"And that's how it works, doesn't it? We are just goin' along in life. Dumb fuck happy. Or not." Logan laughed and raised his drink. "Then it comes along like a two-by-four across the forehead. You don't expect it. You don't know them. But your wolf?—"

"Your core." Julian smiled and patted his chest.

"Yes. Your core knows. One hundred percent," Logan agreed.

"Your wolf knows. But I need time with her. Time I don't have."

"You're safe here. For a few days. Get some rest. Run with pack. Get yourselves energized. But …"

"But what?"

"If you've lived as wolf … you know. The time's tickin' on this mating thing. Being here ‘round all the wolves. You need to mark her."

"Yeah, I don't know about that." Julian plowed his fingers through his hair and blew out a breath. They hadn't even made love yet.

"I'm tellin' ya man. I went through this a few years back but no way my wolf was waiting. It's not somethin' you can deny for too long."

"This is uncharted territory for me, but it'll play out how it's supposed to. Right now, I just wanna keep her safe."

"Safe is good. But this mating thing … you're gonna see real soon what I'm talking about." Logan downed the rest of his liquor and grimaced. "Ahhh. So you running for a while with us? Full moon is in a few days."

"I've gotta talk with Cassia first. I should go to her." Julian shoved to his feet and set his glass on the table.

"Alpha." Logan stood alongside him.

"Yeah?"

"You're an ancient. These powers you've been wielding … bouncing into Hell after demons and back. Now taking up a young wolf as your pack when not many would. Protecting your sister's Alpha, her mate, their pack. No matter what Hell did to you, you fought back. The good in you is no match for Hell. But the mating bond? Bro, it's no joke. Cassia has a light in her … I can see it. It's something not just the hellhounds will find attractive. I can handle all the trouble these witches got and Hell too, but I don't want any from a royal prince who doesn't accept fate. You're ancient and I'm not about to get into it with you. Do yourself a favor and mark her."

Julian nodded, unwilling to fully acknowledge the situation.

"Let me show you to the guest suite. It's a great little cabin off the west wing." Logan changed the subject with a smile and gestured toward the door.

"Appreciate it." Julian held nothing but respect toward the Acadian Alpha. Logan pulled no punches and told it like it was without regard to Julian's lineage. A true leader, he didn't fear what the truth would bring.

As Julian made his way to the room, he considered the reluctant conversation he'd have with Cassia. Do yourself a favor and mark her. He hoped like hell he could hold off before his wolf claimed his mate.