Nehalem Pack 9

A Wolfs Forgotten Life

Dominic Gabardi is living life one day at a time. After waking up from a coma he has no
recollection of his past and struggles every day to find some sense of normalcy. Everything
changes when Roderick Morgan walks into his life. Remembering his past takes a backseat when
up against his strong attraction toward Roderick.
Roderick is a hunter who is set with the task to create peace between his fellow hunters and wolf
shifters. In doing so, he must also find a way to keep their secret from the human world that
shifters do exist, and hes willing to do whatever it takes to guard that information.
When Roderick learns about Dominics condition he immediately wants to eliminate the problem
for the greater good, that is, until he meets the man. Now Roderick must find a way to help
Dominic remember his true nature before he loses control of his wolf and exposes his secret.
Genre: Alternative (M/M or F/F), Contemporary, Paranormal, Vampires/Werewolves
Length: 42,135 words
A WOLFS FORGOTTEN LIFE

Nehalem Pack 9





AJ Jarrett






EVERLASTING CLASSIC
MANLOVE


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IMPRINT: Everlasting Classic ManLove


A WOLFS FORGOTTEN LIFE
Copyright 2013 by AJ Jarrett
E-book ISBN: 978-1-62741-008-3

First E-book Publication: November 2013

Cover design by Harris Channing
All art and logo copyright 2013 by Siren Publishing, Inc.

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED: This literary work may not be reproduced
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Table of Contents
Title Page
Copyright Page
Chapter One
Chapter Two
Chapter Three
Chapter Four
Chapter Five
Chapter Six
Chapter Seven
Chapter Eight
Chapter Nine
Chapter Ten
Chapter Eleven
Chapter Twelve
Chapter Thirteen
Chapter Fourteen
Chapter Fifteen
Chapter Sixteen
Chapter Seventeen
Chapter Eighteen
About the Author
A WOLFS FORGOTTEN LIFE
Nehalem Pack 9

AJ JARRETT
Copyright 2013




Chapter One

Dominic closed his eyes then opened them again. He did it again
only clenched his eyelids tighter, begging that something looked familiar
when he opened his eyes.
Nothing. Not a spark of a memory, just more questions than answers
rattled through his bashed-in head about the life he led before the
accident.
Dominic sat in his sunlit room and the damn thing looked the same as
it did when he was brought to this house two weeks ago. The large room
with its beige-colored walls that nothing hung on. No pictures or
decorative candleholders, nothing. The room was bare except for his
bed, desk, and dresser.
There were stacks of boxes that sat in the corner of the room that he
had gone through but nothing jumped out at him as something from his old
life, a life he couldnt remember.

* * * *

Two weeks ago Dominic woke up in a brightly lit hospital room.
Machines produced a constant beep as they read his vitals, the strong
stench of bleach and disinfectant burned his nose. When he opened his
eyes a man sat next to his bed, staring at him as if just waiting for that
very moment. He sighed in relief, pulled out his phone, and started
making calls. Dominic watched with a wary eye as the man started to
talk as if he knew him.
Dominic tried and tried but he couldnt place the mans face. The
hurt expression the man gave him made Dominic feel guilty. No matter
how hard he tried, everything came up blank.
Dominic, its me, Devon. The man paused, giving time for the
information to sink into Dominics brain, but Dominic only shook his
head in confusion. Dont you remember me?
He shook his head no, then asked, My names Dominic? Up until
that point he didnt even know he had a name.
A doctor came in and explained that memory loss was common in
cases like this. Dominic didnt even have a clue what that doctor meant.
What happened to me?
According to Devon, hed been attacked and badly beaten. Hed
suffered extreme damage to the side of his skull and it had caused his
brain to swell. A part of him was thankful that he couldnt remember
that. Who in their right mind would want to have memories of getting
their head kicked in?
But nonetheless, he had to know the circumstances that left him in
this condition. Apparently the man hed been dating decided to end their
relationship by ending Dominics life. The whole thing would have been
more upsetting had he not learned that his attempted murder had also
fooled the townspeople of Silver Creek. Dominic had gotten off lucky
considering the man was a serial killer and had killed two members of
the Silver Creek swim team.
The thought that he had been intimate with a person that was capable
of something like that still caused chills to ripple over his skin.
Dominic stayed in the hospital a few more days after he woke up.
More visitors came to see him but still nothing. No one took offense to
him not remembering them and just kept telling him stories of who he
used to be.
A young man by the name of Erik came by every day and still did,
since hed been released from the hospital. From what Erik said,
Dominic didnt have any family and came to live with Erik and his
brothers when he was nineteen. The old Dominic didnt talk about his
past and Erik said he pretty much kept to himself and buried himself in
his work.
Devon and Erik both raved about how great with computers he had
been but Dominic couldnt even tell them how to turn one on now. It all
came up blank in his mind.
Dominic could read and after a little work with a therapist was able
to do some basic math, but no way did he believe Erik when he told
Dominic he had worked as an accountant. Just the little bit of math hed
worked on bored the hell out of him. He could never imagine doing that
for a living.
Three days after waking up from his four-week nap he was released
from the hospital. Dominic didnt know where he was going, only that
Devon was taking him to the place he called home. He was given his
own room and free range of the house.
Life at the Carsten manor wasnt bad. Everyone he had met was
really nice and didnt treat him like some freak. He did find it a little
strange that all the men in the house were gay. Dominic shrugged it off.
Who was he to judge? Apparently he was gay but he had no memory of
that. Hell for all he knew he was bisexual and dabbled in both sexes. Not
knowing who he was kind of trumped any kind of sexual desires he might
have toward anyone, man or woman.

* * * *

Dominic got up from where he sat on the bed and walked over to his
dresser and looked into the mirror. His blue eyes seemed more gray than
blue, and a little dull. His black hair looked a little shaggy but he wanted
to keep it longer. On the left side of his head was a wide scar, also a
small indention in the bone where it had healed.
He had no recollection of what he looked like prior to the accident,
only what hed seen in pictures. The men in the house had shown him
plenty of photographs of a smiling man with short, spiky hair and pale
skin. A glow seemed to radiate off him, drawing Dominic closer to the
pictures. Dominic thought the guy he used to be was pretty damn
handsome but it wasnt who he was now. That Dominic fell asleep and
never woke up. All that was left was the outer shell of the man everyone
had grown to know and love. The man he was now was a stranger in his
own skin. Not the Dominic Gabardi from six weeks before his accident.
Dominic ran a hand through his hair but the lifeless strands fell flat.
He made sure to comb his hair to the side to help cover the hideous scar
then headed for the door. The sun was out and he felt like a little fresh
air. Dominic felt his most relaxed while sitting outside. He didnt know
what that meant. Maybe before his accident he was some sort of nature
enthusiast, who enjoyed camping in the woods. Who knew?
In the week and half of living in the Carsten house, he had gotten
pretty familiar with the layout. He knew where the living room was,
where everyone seemed to gather in the evening, and the kitchen. Some
of the most wonderful smells came from that beloved room.
Dominic came down the stairs and looked around. Every now and
again hed walk into a room and close his eyes. Hoping beyond hope that
something would come back to him.
Hi, Dom, whatcha doing?
He cracked open one eye and saw a little boy standing in front of
him. Short, brown hair, the brightest blue eyes hed ever seen, and, well,
a kid. He should be able to remember his name. It sat right on the tip of
his tongue.
For god sakes! Dominic, you idiot. You played kickball with him
two days ago, his voice echoed in the hollows of his head.
Uh, uh. Dominic snapped his fingers trying to spit the kids name
out.
Carson, the little boy said slowly and loudly as if he thought
Dominic was deaf.
Shit, thats right, Dominic shouted. Then something inside him
reminded him he shouldnt use foul language in front of a child. Damn
it. He balled up his fist and prayed that the next thing that came out of
his mouth wasnt offensive. Im sorry, Carson. I didnt mean to forget
your name or say those bad words. He squatted down until eye level
with the small boy. Can you forgive me?
Sure. Carson raised his small hand up and lightly stroked it on the
side of Dominics head where the scar was. He had to fight against his
bodys natural instinct to flinch away. Its not your fault you cant
remember stuff. But my dads say as long as you try thats all that
matters.
The kid said it like that answered all the problems in the world and
excused the fact that Dominics brain was mush.
I like your dads. He returned the little boys smile. They sound
pretty smart.
Well duh, they are. Carson rolled his eyes.
You little stinker. Dominic reached for Carson and started to tickle
his sides and the little boy squealed in delight. He gave one last tickle
then stood up. You hungry? Carson nodded his head. Me, too, lets go
see whats in the kitchen.
Dominic let Carson lead the way. The sound of voices could be
heard before he reached the entry into the kitchen. Once he stepped into
the kitchen, all talking ceased. That had happened a lot lately but
Dominic didnt think he should be offended by it or at least he tried not
to be. He was a stranger in the Carsten house even if they knew him
before his accident.
Skyler, one of Carsons dads, Carl, and Aiden stood around the
island in the center of the kitchen.
Dad, Im hungry, Carson whined and stuck out his lower lip.
You do realize you sound like a little girl when you pout like that?
Skyler teased his son. I think that little Tatum girl is rubbing off on you
too much.
She is not! Carson tried to look appalled by the fact that his dad
had just ousted him in front of everyone that he hung out with a girl.
Whos Tatum? Dominic asked as he ruffled his hand through
Carsons soft brown hair. Is she your girlfriend?
Why? You jealous? Carson asked in all seriousness without
missing a beat. Dominic was dumbfounded and didnt know what to say.
Now that, my friends, is my boy. Skyler held up his hand to his son
to give him a high five. And you have extremely good taste because she
is the cutest little girl I think Ive ever seen. Makes me want to have
another child.
Yeah, I dont think the rest of us can put up with another little
protg of yours. Aiden got up from his seat to refill his coffee mug.
How you doing this morning, Dom?
Good I guess. He pulled out the milk from the fridge and filled a
glass.
I still found it completely odd that you cant remember liking
coffee? Skyler pointed to the glass of milk in Dominics hand. You
used to live off the stuff.
Dominic shrugged his shoulders and took a drink. Its too bitter.
Ive tried it a couple of times but I cant stand the stuff. He picked up
one of the banana muffins sitting on a platter on the countertop and took a
bite. His eyes fell shut and he moaned as the sweet, moist texture rolled
over his tongue and down his throat. Dominic was surprised he hadnt
gained twenty pounds since being released from the hospital. Carl
always had something baking and ready to offer him in a heartbeat.
I take it you like those? Carl asked.
I love them, Dominic said around a mouthful of muffin. Youre
the best cook ever.
There was a time you thought I was. Dominic heard the mumbled
words Skyler said under his breath as he turned around to refill his
coffee mug.
The room grew quiet except for the sound of Carson singing along to
the theme song of Spongebob Squarepants in front of the TV that hung on
the wall in front of the kitchen table. No one seemed to make eye contact
with Dominic and it was times like this he hated most of all.
Im sorry, Skyler, Dominic found himself apologizing. Hed
become a pro at doing that lately. It wasnt his fault he couldnt
remember but it wasnt these mens fault for having these cherished
memories of Dominic Gabardi. He was their friend and this Dominic
they were now stuck with was a lacking substitute.
No, dont be. Skyler brushed a hand under his eye. Dominic
couldnt be sure but he thought he saw a tear slip out the mans eye.
Youll come to remember. Skyler paused before correcting himself.
Youll come to see I like to be the center of attention and Carl keeps
steeling my spotlight with his damn baked goods.
Aiden and Carl began to laugh and Dominic took that as a clue to
chime in. Skyler smiled and laughed and joked around, but Dominic
knew he had upset the other man. If he could just remember, episodes
like this wouldnt happen as often. But no matter how much he hoped and
prayed, his mind was an empty abyss of nothingness.
Gentleman, Im sorry to say this but I have to go. Carl put the
muffins in a plastic container and left them on the counter. Margie has a
doctors appointment today and I promised Shane Id come help out at
the caf.
Dominic had been to the caf in Silver Creek once since he came to
live here. He liked it. The fresh, sweet scent of baked breads, muffins,
cakes, and cookies was like a drug to his system. Even the strong aroma
from the different coffees they served there werent too bad.
Can I come with you? Dominic asked, needing an excuse to get out
of the house. After hurting Skylers feelings he needed to escape the
awkwardness that made his skin crawl.
Carl looked over at Aiden who gave a quick nod, as if Dominic
needed permission to leave, but he guessed that he kind of did. If he got
separated from Carl, he wouldnt know his way back home or a phone
number to call for help.
Sure, Carl said in a chipper voice. Let me use the restroom real
quick then well go.
Dominic couldnt contain his smile. He was free of the house even if
for just a little bit. Skylers disappointment sat thick in the air and it felt
like a noose around Dominics neck. He needed to get out of here before
it consumed him.
Chapter Two

How was your trip?
Exhausting, Roderick answered Brandon as he threw his suitcase
in the back of the mans truck.
Over the past seven weeks, he and another hunter, Phillip, had
started the interview process on all hunters that were current members of
the East Coast section of the hunters council. Phillip was one of the only
other hunters he trusted to assist with the interviews. There were hunters
who truly wanted to accept the new changes and those only saying they
agreed but continuing to kill. It was a cluster fuck to try and weed
through the mess.
Roderick had grown tired of all the lies he had heard over the past
few weeks. Most of the hunters who worked with the council didnt
know Rodericks background and he didnt give the information to just
anyone.
Prior to working with the hunters council, he had been a marine.
Joined up right after he graduated high school. He loved the daily life of
a soldier. He knew what was expected of him and he was good at
following and giving orders.
His ability to pay attention and keep calm in any situation made him a
valuable asset as a sniper. To be able to sit for long periods of time and
just watch his mark before he could take a shot. Roderick had been good
at that. But like most things in life, things changed and after too many
years of killing human beings, and watching too many of his friends die,
he needed a change.
Killing wolf shifters was different for him at first. Hed seen what a
crazed, out-of-its-mind wolf could do to a persons body and it wasnt
pretty. Roderick thought he was doing a public service by ridding the
world of these beasts. It wasnt until he met one did his opinion start to
change.
Just like humans, there were bad and good. Roderick had only been
shown the bad until he met a sweet female wolf shifter. His boss on the
West Coast councils son fell in love with one of the wolves he was
ordered to kill. The love those two shared was beyond anything
Roderick had ever seen before. Watching those two together proved to
Roderick that it was wrong to kill off an entire species based on what a
few had done wrong.
Now Roderick worked to protect both humans and wolf shifters.
There were humans who hunted wolf shifters for sport and wolf shifters
who did the same to humans. Evil was evil and it didnt differentiate
between human and not-completely-human individuals.
For Roderick, it gave his life a better purpose. He didnt want his
life to be nothing but blood and death. Killing for the past ten years had
started to tarnish his soul. He needed a change and so did the council.
But its for a good cause. Brandon pulled away from the curb and
headed for the highway. Roderick eased his chair back and closed his
eyes. There are hunters out there who need to be stopped and those that
want to protect those who cannot protect themselves, be it humans or
wolves.
Yeah, but its tiring to have to read between the bullshit to see who
really believes what they say and those who just want me to believe
what they say so they can go on like they have been. Roderick rubbed a
hand over his eyes. If I see one more report about a kid wolf shifter
being killed, I swear Im going to kill the hunter responsible.
I hear ya. Ever since I met Erik, I feel the same way. All I was ever
taught was to believe these beings were evil and deserved to die. Until
you see it firsthand, its hard to accept, Brandon said.
Yeah, I know. Its hard to accept change. He looked over to
Brandon. But in this case its either change or the council will find a
way to eliminate you. Dont get me wrong, there are some bad
motherfucking wolves out there that need to be put down, but we cant
classify them all in the same manner.
True. Brandon looked at him and held Rodericks stare. These
new changes make our jobs harder, but its worth it. You know that,
right?
Of course I do and thats why Im not bitching about it. Roderick
turned to face forward and closed his eyes again.
Oh I almost forgot. Dominic woke up while you were gone.
Roderick opened his eyes just a bit to keep the bright sun out of his
eyes. Thats good. Does he remember what happened?
Nope, not a single thing, and when I say a single thing, Im not
exaggerating. Brandon blew out a deep breath. He doesnt remember
anything from his old life. Not his job, his hobbies, if hes gay or
straight. Nothing.
So are you saying this guy doesnt remember hes a wolf shifter?
Roderick waited for Brandons answer. Hed just gotten back in town
and he didnt want to have to deal with this, too. A wolf shifter who
doesnt know hes a wolf shifter was a serious problem.
Thats exactly what Im saying, Brandon answered.
Shit, Roderick mumbled under his breath. Hed never met Dominic
but he had to assume the other members of his pack might get a little
upset if he had to put Dominic down out of safety for the community.
Does he suspect anything? I mean, fuck, how does the guy not remember
something like that? Forgetting what your favorite food is or if you can
drive a car is one thing, but this? He shook his head. This is bad,
Brandon, and you know it.
I know and thats why I avoided calling you. I wanted to give Dom
time to remember. Brandons grip on the steering wheel tightened and
Roderick could see the whites of his knuckles. Its only been two
weeks, Roderick.
Brandon, I know this guy is a member of your mates pack but you
know this could end very badly. Best-case scenario he remembers, but it
could easily go the other way. What happens if this guy shifts in the
fucking grocery store or while at the movies? he asked Brandon,
knowing his friend didnt have an answer for either question. Him not
knowing what he is is a threat to everyone around him. Knowing what he
is could drive him crazy and a crazy wolf shifter is a bad thing, a real
bad thing.
I understand what youre saying, but we need to give him more time.
Ive got an idea. Brandon passed the turnoff for his house and kept
driving. Dom is helping out at the caf today. Ill take you there and you
can talk to him, get a feel for how hes doing.
Brandon. His voice lowered, conveying his exhaustion. He just
wanted to curl up in bed and sleep for a week.
Come on, Roderick. Your opinion carries weight at the council. If
you say hes fine then theyll believe you.
That was true. What was a few more minutes? I guess I dont have a
choice in the matter since youre driving.
True, and since youre staying with me, I guess youre at my
mercy. Brandon chuckled.
Yeah, so not funny. Roderick rolled his head on his shoulders
trying to work out the kinks from the long plane ride. Ill go speak with
him then I need to go and talk with Devon. He needs to know what will
have to happen if this Dom guy loses his shit.

* * * *

Dominic cleared the empty mugs and plates from the table then
wiped it clean. Hed been at the Early Bean Caf for the past three hours
and he wasnt bored yet. He enjoyed the hustle and bustle of the daily
crowd that flooded into the little shop. The people were nice and he
enjoyed helping them. Granted he was only serving them coffee and
snacks, but still it made him feel like he wasnt worthless.
The customers who came in didnt know him so it made it easy to be
around them and talk with them. They couldnt bring up what he used to
be like and inadvertently make him feel guilty for not being that same
person.
Dominic hummed along with the song that played over the radio. He
carried his tub of dishes around the counter to the sink and started to
rinse them off to put in the dishwasher. He wasnt curing cancer, but
doing this job made him feel special. It gave him a purpose instead of
just sitting around the house waiting for his memory to come back.
Ive never seen someone take such pleasure from doing dishes,
Shane said with a smile that Dominic returned.
Its fun. He shrugged. Its something I cant screw up and I dont
need my memory to know how to wash dishes. Dominic did his best to
keep the irritation from his voice. He didnt want to offend or upset the
men who had taken him in.
True. Shane took a step toward him. Im not going to lie and say I
know what youre going through. Itd just be an insult to you, but I will
say this, we all still care about you. Be it this person youve become or
the old you. It doesnt matter to us. Youre still Dominic.
Yeah but not the Dominic everyone remembers. He turned around
and rested his hip against the sink. I hate seeing the disappointment in
their eyes whenever I dont remember something or if I say the wrong
thing. Its hard to deal with.
I can imagine. Shane put a hand on his forearm and gave him a
gentle squeeze. Just keep doing what youre doing. We all love you.
And quite franklyShane crossed his arms over his chest and blew his
light brown hair out of his faceI like the new you. I can finally
understand what you say when you talk. Before, all that computer lingo
you used to spout off about confused the shit out of me and it made you
kind of scary.
Dominic started to laugh. I like you, too, Shane. As Shane turned to
leave, Dominic said, And thanks.
For what? Shane raised his eyebrows.
For liking the new me.
Shane grinned and gave a quick nod of his head and went back to the
front counter. Dominic turned on the faucet and started to hose down the
dishware. The bell above the front door chimed, indicating a customer
had just come inside. With Shane manning the front counter, Dominic
stayed where he was washing off the dishes.
Dominic began humming along with the radio again but a strong,
enticing aroma made him lose focus. He closed his eyes and took a
bigger sniff, his nostrils flaring as he sucked it in. The scent made him
think of the crisp, cool mornings when hed go outside before everyone
else woke up to watch the sunrise. A strong pine smell mixed with
morning dew. Dominic didnt realize how much he loved that smell. His
palms grew sweaty and warmth flooded his chest.
Dom, you okay? Carl asked as he stepped around the corner
carrying a large bag of flour.
Huh? He looked at his friend.
Are you all right? Concern flashed in Carls eyes.
Do you smell that? The aroma grew stronger, to the point of
annoyance. He had to find out where that smell was coming from.
Smell what? Carl asked slowly.
You know. Dominic waved a hand around in the air, sending water
droplets flying. That smell you smell first thing in the morning. At
Carls blank look he elaborated. The crisp, cool breeze cutting across
the trees, sending the smell of pine and dew right up your nose.
Dominic took a deep breath. Its my favorite smell.
Hey, Dom Shanes stopped in mid-sentence, looking between
him and Carl. Whats going on here?
Tell him, Dom. Carl pointed to Shane.
Tell me what? Shane glanced over his shoulder toward the front of
the store.
Its nothing. Dominic was quick to explain. Really. I just got a big
whiff of pine trees and morning dew. He didnt understand what the big
deal was.
Huh? Shane had a look of confusion on his face.
That smell just so happens to be his favorite smell. Carl gave
Shane a pointed look as if trying to tell the other man something without
saying the words.
Let me get this straight. Shane put this hand on his hips. You just
started to smell this water and tree scent out of the blue?
Yeah. Dominic nodded. Even now the smell was so strong if he
closed his eyes he could imagine sitting on the porch as the sun came
over the horizon and seeing the light glistening off the grass. He smiled at
the way the freshness and beauty of the scene made him feel.
Dominic opened his eyes, coming out of the trance he had fallen into.
His eyes landed on a man sitting at one of the front tables. The man
wasnt alone. Brandon was with him, but Dominic couldnt seem to pull
his attention from the other man.
Who is that with Brandon? The man seemed out of place in the
small coffee shop. His large frame was folded neatly into a chair, one
leg crossed over the other as he relaxed back into his seat. Dominic
could see the mans lips moving but couldnt make out a single word
over the blood pounding in his ears. The rugged handsomeness of his
face seemed to pull Dominic closer even though his feet never moved
from where he stood. High cheekbones, slightly crooked nose, and the
fullest bottom lip Dominic had seen since hed woken up from his four-
week nap. There wasnt anything soft and pretty about this man. He was
all hard lines and masculinity. In a way, it reminded Dominic of the
beautiful scenery of the land surrounding the Carsten house. Untouched
by the outside world, pure.
And god help him, the guy was drop-dead gorgeous. Every time his
arms flexed, the mans muscles bulged at the cuff of the shirt where it
was wrapped around his bicep. Dominics fingers itched to touch the
golden, tanned skin.
Dominic took a deep breath and the smell seemed stronger, if that
were possible. A tingling sensation started low in his stomach and
fanned outward toward his balls. In response, his dick twitched and he
moved his hands to cover the growing bulge in his jeans.
That would be Roderick. Hes a friend of Brandons. Brandon
actually brought Roderick here to meet you. Why dont you go on up
there? Shane patted him on the back, urging him forward. I need to go
and call Erik.
Okay. His voice sounded unsteady to his own ears. For some
reason he was completely nervous. He looked to Carl for help.
Its okay, Dom. Ill be right back here if you need anything. Carl
gave him an encouraging smile.
Dominic nodded his head and walked toward the front of the shop
toward Brandon and Rodericks table. The closer he got, the more his
palms started to sweat. He wiped them on his shorts, trying to dry them
before he reached the table, then he raised his hand to nervously paw at
the bare spot on his scalp, embarrassed by what this man might think if
he saw his deformity.
He must have made a noise because both Brandon and Roderick
turned to look at him. The soft warm color of Rodericks eyes took his
breath away. At least now he felt safe in saying he knew whether he was
gay or not.
Chapter Three

Roderick yawned so wide his jaw popped from the strain. All he
wanted to do was crawl into bed and sleep for a week, but duty called.
Brandon drove them to the Early Bean Caf so he could speak to
Dominic. He had never met the man before but had heard a lot about him.
According to the members of the pack, this guy was scary with what he
could do with a computer. But that had been before the accident.
Shane greeted him when he walked through the door with his usual
sarcasm. Today it was something about all work and no play made
Roderick a dull boy. He was too tired to come back with a witty
comment so he took a seat.
Brandon explained that they were there to see Dominic, and Shane
walked to the back to get the man.
Roderick didnt know what Brandon hoped to accomplish by
bringing him here. Even if Dominic didnt remember anything now and
seemed normal, it didnt mean hed always be like this. Rodericks
biggest fear was that Dominic would shift in public, exposing his secret
to the world, or that hed go crazy knowing what he truly was. A crazy
wolf was a dangerous one.
Either way Roderick felt like shit and didnt want to be the one to
tell Brandon or Devon that this guy needed to be taken care of. The
world wasnt ready to know that the things that went bump in the night
were real. Fear was a powerful emotion that drove countries to war and
the last thing Roderick wanted was for wolf shifters to be in more danger
than they already were.
The sound of shuffling feet drew Rodericks attention up. Brandon
stood up and introduced them.
The sight of Dominic had his tired body waking up to take notice.
The soft glow of his pale skin and the crystal clearness of his blue eyes
stood out like a spotlight drawing all of Rodericks focus.
He stood up and held out his hand to Dominic. Hello, Dominic. My
name is Roderick Morgan. Its nice to meet you. It took a moment of
Dominic staring at his hand before he finally took it, and when he did
Roderick felt a spark shoot through his hand all the way to his toes.
Hi, Dominic whispered so softly Roderick took a step forward,
still holding on to the other mans hand. Dominic cleared his throat and
spoke again. Hi, Roderick. He looked over to Brandon. And nice
seeing you again, Brandon.
Dominics grip was light but firm and Roderick found himself not
wanting to let go. Damn, I must be more tired than I thought. Roderick
forced himself to release Dominics hand and pulled out the chair
between him and Brandon for Dominic to sit in. Please have a seat.
Once they were seated, Roderick leaned forward and rested his
elbows on the table. He looked from Dominic to Brandon, unsure what
he should say or what Brandon wanted him to say.
At the moment, Roderick was doing his best to keep his body in
check. His skin sizzled with awareness of Dominic sitting so close. The
poor guy looked so frail sitting in his chair, arms covering his
midsection like he was afraid.
So, Dominic, hows things been going today? Brandon asked,
starting the conversation.
Good, I guess. Dominic brought a hand up to trace a pattern on the
tabletop.
Thats great to hear. Brandon looked to Roderick but he only
shrugged. I wanted you to meet my friend Roderick. Hes staying with
Erik and I for the time being.
I remember Erik mentioning that. Dominic glanced at him from the
corner of his eye.
Roderick looked over at Brandon and raised his eyebrows. Brandon
tilted his head to the side and nudged it toward Dominic. Roderick was
still not certain what he should say and somehow asking Dominic if he
wanted to go back to his place and fuck seemed highly inappropriate.
A sharp sting shot up his shin from the kick Brandon aimed at him.
Shit. He bent down to rub at the knot forming on his leg. He narrowed
his eyes at Brandon, promising to get him back for this.
You all right? Dominic asked.
Im great, Roderick managed to say. So Brandon told me you lost
your memory. He blew out a breath. That has to be hard.
It is. Dominic sat up straighter in his chair. But I think its harder
for everyone else. Im not the one missing anything from my old life
while everyone around me is suffering. I just wish everyone just
accepted me the way I am now, not what I was before. A shocked look
appeared on Dominics face as if surprised he said so much.
Dominics bluntness started to thaw the ice around Rodericks heart.
It had to be tough on this guy to not have any recollection from his old
life. And to add to that, the man didnt know what he was capable of.
I cant believe I just said that. Dominic looked to Brandon. Im
sorry. I didnt mean it to come out like that.
Its okay, Dominic. Brandon patted Dominic on the hand and a
spark of jealousy coiled in Rodericks gut. I can only imagine what
youre going through. I think you are handling all of this pretty well.
Roderick began a slow tap of his fingers on the table. Brandon hadnt
moved his hand and the smile that lit up Dominics face from the
kindness Brandon was showing him was really starting to piss him off.
So, Dominic, nothing else about your new life feels odd or strange?
Any questions you feel the need to ask?
No, not really. Dominic narrowed his eyes at him. Why do you
ask?
Oh no reason. Roderick slapped his hand on the tabletop. Both
Dominic and Brandon jumped at the sharp sound. We should be going.
He stood up and held his hand out to Dominic once more. Nice meeting
you.
Same here. A smile curved Dominics upper lip.
Roderick followed Brandon out of the caf and got into his truck. He
took a deep breath, filling his lungs. While around Dominic, he couldnt
seem to think or function. That had never happened before. Lovers came
and went, no one was ever special enough to garner a second thought
once they left Rodericks bed, but there was something about Dominic.
He felt the need to protect the other man and tell him it didnt matter if he
ever got his memory back. As long as Roderick was there, hed take care
of Dominic.
It was an odd and eerie feeling. Roderick didnt like it. He had a job
to do and, like it or not, Dominic was just another one of his many jobs
he had to take care of. If the wolf did panic once the realization set in
that he wasnt like everyone else, it would mean putting a bullet between
those pretty blue eyes.
What is wrong with me? Why do I care this much? Roderick
silently asked himself. Dominic was just a man, and there were plenty of
others out there. No shortage in the male population.
Hed gone too long without sex and was sucked in by the innocence
in Dominics eyes. I need to get laid.
Where to now? Brandon asked.
Devons. Roderick buckled his seat belt. His chest felt tight with
the thought of ever hurting Dominic but what else could he do? He
needed to separate his lustful thoughts from what his job required of him.
Hed sworn to protect humans and wolves and sometimes that meant
from their own nature. We need to discuss our options before this goes
any further.

* * * *

Dominic watched as Roderick and Brandon drove out of sight. He
felt a twinge in his chest, almost an ache. His hand came up and his
fingers rubbed in a circular motion over the center of his chest.
Dom, you okay? Shane asked as he came around the counter to
stand by him.
Yeah. Just tired I guess. He stepped away from the window and
went back to the sink to finish loading the dishwasher.
You like him dont you? Shane followed behind.
Dominic turned to look at him and noticed that Carl, too, had stopped
to stare at him. I dont know. The burning heat of the flush that crawled
up his neck had given away how he really felt.
You do! Carl clapped a hand over his mouth.
I guess its safe to say that youre gay, huh? Dominic had a strong
urge to smack the grin off Shanes face. Dont even try to deny it. I saw
the way you were drooling after that guy. Youre totally smitten.
Well duh. The smell thing was a total giveaway. Thats what
hap Carls sentence was cut off by Shane throwing a wet hand towel
at his head. What the heck?
Shane gave a slight shake to his head. It was like they were talking
telepathically but Dominic didnt know what about.
What about the smell? Dominic asked.
Nothing. The usual chipper spark was back in Shanes tone. Lets
get back to work so we can close up on time. I cant wait to tell
everyone that you have a crush on Roderick.
I do not! Dominic snapped.
Whatever. You totally do. Shane pointed down at Dominics
crotch. I saw exactly how much you liked him.
Dominic sputtered, trying to think of something to say, but his
embarrassment made his tongue feel too heavy for his mouth.
Dont try to hide it. Shane called out over his shoulder. Its good
to see you like a guy. One more thing we all have in common. Dominic
laughed when Shane waggled his eyebrows at him.
Are you sure we were friends before my brain got bashed in?
Of course! Shane looked offended. Like the best.
Now I know youre lying. Dominic smiled and got back to work.
It had been an exciting day to say the least. He couldnt get over how
much he enjoyed helping out at the caf and loved helping Carl decorate
the cookies and cakes. It was a full day. To top it off, his heart got a
workout, too. For the first time since waking up in that hospital bed, he
felt truly alive. Alive in a way that had everything to do with the way
Roderick made him feel.
Just for the record. Carl stood beside him and helped load the
dishwasher. Roderick was totally checking you out, too.
Really?
Yeah. Carl bumped shoulders with him.
He couldnt imagine what a man like Roderick would see in
someone like him. Roderick was fit, with rippling muscles covered by
golden, sun-kissed skin. Like a Viking without the long hair. In
Dominics estimation, absolutely beautiful.
Dominic lacked in comparison to Roderick. He was tall and lanky,
pale like a vampire and he didnt even know who the fuck he was. Not
remembering his life before the accident was bothering him less and
less, but what did he have to offer another person? He was broken in
ways he wasnt entirely sure could be fixed. If it werent for the Carsten
family, Dominic wasnt sure where hed be.
Carl didnt want to think any more about what used to be and lusting
after a guy he just met shouldnt even be a priority at the present. The
only thing that mattered was the here and now, and he needed to figure
out what he was going to do with the rest of his life.
Chapter Four

Hey, guys. Devon said as he rushed into his office, shutting the
door behind him. Sorry Im late. I left the job site as soon as I got your
call. He took the seat across from Roderick and Brandon. Roderick,
its good to see you. When did you get back to town?
A few hours ago actually. Exhaustion still lay heavy in his bones
but images of Dominics angelic face kept flashing behind his eyelids.
No offense, but you look like hell. Are things not going over well
with the hunters youve spoken to? Roderick could see the concern on
Devons face. If hunters didnt follow the new code of conduct set forth
by the council, it meant bad things for the wolf shifters of the world. In
order to keep the secret hidden from the world they had to rely on
hunters to not come forth and spill the beans. They also didnt want a
hunter out there on a personal mission to kill everything in sight.
Roderick clenched his eyes tight and rubbed a hand over his face. He
just so badly wanted to lie down and go to sleep. So far so good. Some
of these men have been doing this for years. Change is always difficult at
first, but I think the alternative had them seeing reason. He left out the
part about the ones he could tell were lying to him even at the expense of
their own safety.
Thats good to hear. Devon crossed one leg over the other, resting
his ankle over his knee. So whats so urgent that I had to rush home?
When Brandon didnt say anything, Roderick sat up in his chair.
Dominic.
What about Dominic? Devon asked. Is he all right?
Yes, hes fine. Roderick steepled his fingers and searched for the
right way to say this. This is more about the fact that he doesnt know
what he is. Whats your contingency plan if he doesnt remember?
I dont know. Devon sat back in his seat, staring daggers at
Roderick. What exactly are you getting at here, Roderick?
Devon, you have a wolf shifter walking around town thinking hes
just like everyone else. Its not safe.
Why isnt it safe? Devons asked in a clipped tone. Hes lost his
memory, not his mind.
And herein lay the problem. Roderick knew hed be the bad guy once
he brought this up but what else was he supposed to do?
True, but what will you do when his emotions get the better of him
and he shifts in public? Or if he shifts in the privacy of his own room and
doesnt know what is happening to him? Roderick started to get angry
on Dominics behalf. It wasnt fair to let him find out by accident what
his true nature was. The shock and fear could rip Dominic apart, causing
him to lose his mind. What then, Devon?
Well deal with it. Devon said it like that statement was final and
that was all that needed to be said. Hes pack and we take care of our
own.
Thats your solution? Roderick chuckled. Well that wont solve
the problem if he goes from human to wolf in the middle of the fucking
street, now does it? He stood up and started pacing the room. This just
wasnt his day. He could hurt someone or put you all at greater risk of
discovery. Was he the only one who saw Dominic not remembering
what he was as a real issue? This could be very bad for everyone
involved.
So what do you suggest then, Roderick? Devon stood up from his
chair.
Roderick halted in his footsteps and faced both Devon and Brandon.
Brandons face had grown pale as if he were going to be sick. Some
people couldnt handle situations like this. Death wasnt always the
route he wanted to take, but to spare thousands he would sacrifice one.
Please dont tell me youre thinking of putting a bullet in his head?
The harshness in Devons tone would have frightened a weaker man but
Roderick just ignored it.
We cant let him run around unaware of what he truly is. He was
hoping they saw his reasoning. He could unintentionally expose the
whole lot of you, then what?
So killing him is your solution? Devon shook his head in disgust.
I thought you were different than the others. I guess I was wrong.
Tension had Rodericks muscles pulled tight and his hands shaking.
Before he could say another word, the office door banged open and Erik
came stomping in. A look of pure hatred on his face.
Erik? Brandon stood up and walked over to his mate. What are
you doing here? I thought you were at home.
I wont let you kill him. Erik ignored Brandon and zoned in on
Roderick. Hes a member of our family not some stray off the street.
Erik, I know this sounds harsh but what kind of life will you all
have if Dominic exposes your secret? You would risk hundreds of lives
to spare just one? How would you feel if he killed an innocent human?
Well find a way to make it work.
Erik, I wish it was that easy. Pain cut through Rodericks chest like
a hot poker. I dont want to kill anyone but
Theres no buts to it! Erik shouted at the top of his lungs. You
cant kill him, especially considering what he is to you.
The room went dead quiet and Roderick, along with Brandon and
Devon, stared at Erik. Erik, what are you talking about? Brandon
asked.
What is he to me? Roderick asked, afraid to hear what Erik had to
say.
Your mate. A smile spread over Eriks face. He seemed rather
pleased with himself for dropping that gigantic bomb. Knowing that, do
you really think youd put a bullet between his eyes, you egotistical
bastard?
Thats not funny, Roderick mumbled. The room started to sway
and Rodericks head felt too heavy to hold up any longer. He started to
stumble forward and Devon reached out to steady him then helped lower
him into a chair.
I know its not. Erik sat on the table in front of him and laid a
gentle hand on Rodericks knee. But do you see now why killing him
isnt an option? At least not an option for you. Hes your mate.
Something inside you must feel a connection to him.
Something did but Roderick had hoped it was the lack of sex that had
these emotions racing through his body. How can you be certain? If he
doesnt know what he is how can he possibly know Im his mate?
He smelled you once you walked through the front door at the caf.
Erik stared down at the floor as he spoke. Shane called and told me
everything. Dom was back washing dishes when you and Brandon
arrived. Carl said Dom started going on about this smell and asked if he
smelled it, too. There was no one else in the caf but Carl, Shane, and
Brandon, and hes already been around them plenty of times since he
woke up. YouErik looked up, meeting his gazewere the only other
person in the shop and the only person Dom didnt know. Like it or not,
hes yours.
Roderick sat completely still for a moment, doing his best to absorb
everything Erik just told him. Dominic was his mate. Could he even call
it being a mate since Dominic didnt remember he was a wolf shifter? It
was all too much to handle. Roderick always wanted to fall in love and
find that one special person, but this? Destined to be with a man he might
have to kill if he goes rabid and starts eating the neighbors. Dear god in
heaven this wasnt fair.
What the fuck am I going to do? Roderick shot up from his chair
and started to pace the floor again. Hands gripped tightly at his head,
doing their best to keep his skull from splitting into pieces.
Yes, Devon said. What are you going to do?
What do you want from me? A cool sweat dampened his palms
and he could feel the first beads of perspiration trickle down his back. I
didnt ask for any of this!
And neither did he. Erik stepped in his path, blocking Roderick
from taking another step. The question is, now that you know, what will
you do to help him and yourself? Erik reached for his hand and
Roderick didnt resist. I can tell that youre lonely and heres your
chance at happiness. Dont let it slip away.
Hes right. Brandon stood up and wrapped his arm around Eriks
shoulders. I saw the way you looked at him today. Deny it all you want
but youre attracted to Dominic.
That doesnt mean anything. He pulled away from Erik and turned
away from his knowing stare. Just because he was attracted to Dominic
didnt mean theyd fall in love and live happily ever after.
But what if it does? Devon asked. This could be the answer to all
our problems.
Excuse me? Roderick spun around to face the crazy alpha. How
can this in any way be a good thing?
Just hear me out. Devon held his hands in front of him. Doms
doctors said not to pressure him into getting his memories back. Said to
show him pictures, share memories we have of him but not to force the
issue. What if youDevon pointed at himare in fact his mate?
Being around you might help wake that side of himself up. If he can at
least remember what he is, he can learn to handle it. And with you being
a skilled hunter, who better to watch out for him?
So what youre saying is you want me to babysit him? Not that it
would be a hardship being around Dominic, but what if things didnt go
as Devon suggested? What if Roderick grew to care about Dominic only
to have to put him out of his misery? How would that be fair to either of
them? Roderick avoided relationships for this purpose. He didnt want
to hurt anyone or be hurt in return. Love could do strange things to a
person and Roderick didnt want to fall victim to that.
You cant technically call it babysitting. Babysitters arent allowed
to fuck the people they are caring for. Erik said bluntly. So I think
youll be just fine spending time with Dom.
I hate to say this but I agree with my brother.
Of course he would. Roderick sat back down, taking a deep breath
before he spoke again. You guys are basing all this on the fact that he
liked the way I smelled. Feeling a little self-conscious, he sniffed at his
armpit. It was a good smell, right?
According to Shane, Dom couldnt stop talking about it. Erik
grinned at him.
But still you guys are putting a lot of hope in the fact, just because
he likes the way I smell, that we are destined to be together. A part of
him wanted it to be true but didnt want to admit anything to his friends.
Roderick, you of all people know a wolfs sense of smell is vital to
their way of life. Typically the first thing a wolf notices when they find
their mate is their scent. Then when they see them the attraction is
undeniable.
I know that but it sure as shit didnt seem like Dominic was having
to hold himself back from me today. He seemed rather indifferent toward
me. Now had Dominic straddled his lap and planted his plush lips to
his, Roderick would be more willing to believe all this.
Can I come in? Roderick looked over Devons shoulder to see
Shane standing in the doorway.
Sure, come on in. Devon waved him inside.
I couldnt help but overhear you guys talking. Shane closed the
door behind him and came over to them.
Wheres Dom? Roderick couldnt help but ask. Knowing that the
man might be in close range had his pulse racing and all his blood
flowing southward.
Hes outside with Carl. Shane knelt down beside Rodericks chair
and looked up at him with sympathetic eyes. This isnt fair to you but
neither to Dom. Hes a great guy and didnt deserve to have his head
bashed in and his memories stolen. Since he woke up, hes just been
going through the motions of living until today. A single tear ran down
Shanes cheek. You should have seen him after you left, standing by the
window watching until you drove out of sight, and then on the way home.
Dom had this goofy grin on his face the whole entire time. I could smell
his happiness. For two weeks that man has been walking around like a
zombie then you came along and woke him up in ways we couldnt.
Shane took Rodericks hand in his and squeezed. I know what its like
to be alone and I cant imagine you or Dom want to live the rest of your
lives like that. So Im begging you, help him and in the process you might
just help yourself.
The way Shane looked at him made Roderick uncomfortable. He
didnt want to think this man saw through the faade he put out there for
the world to see. Like Dominic, Roderick was alone in the world. He
kept that knowledge to himself, not wanting other people to pity him. If
he only had to count on himself there was no way anyone could ever
disappoint him, but now? Now he had a man who might be the one
person who would never fail him. Roderick just had to be strong enough
to take a chance on someone other than himself.
Fine, Ill do it. Roderick barely had enough time to catch his
balance before Erik and Shane jumped into his lap, hugging him around
the neck. Okay, now get off me. He stood up and headed for the door.
Hey, Roderick? He turned at the sound of Devons voice. If you
need anything dont hesitate to ask. He might be your mate but hes still
our friend.
Roderick nodded his head then stepped out of the room. His chest
felt tight and anxiety prickled at his skin. Dating had never been his thing
and he prayed he didnt fuck this up. But in the end a lot more was riding
on this than him getting a boyfriend. If Dominic couldnt handle being a
shifter, Roderick would have to do the one thing that might send him over
the edge. And that thought scared Roderick more than falling in love.
Chapter Five

Here. Carl held out the metal spatula to him. Dominic stared at it
like it was a snake posing to attack him. Come on, Dom. Just flip the
hamburgers over every few seconds. Its easy.
Dominic took the spatula in hand and turned over the first patty. He
flipped it over nicely without it falling in between the grates of the grill.
It was actually kind of fun.
The sun had begun its descent in the sky. A warm breeze blew across
his face and he closed his eyes, taking in the wild scents of the great
outdoors.
There it is again. Dominics hand began to shake and the spatula fell
from his hand to clank on the wooden deck floor. He turned around,
following the smell.
Dom, you okay? He heard Carl ask but didnt answer.
He walked in the direction the smell was coming from. With eyes
shut, he let his nose lead the way. The smell grew stronger and Dominic
became anxious to find the cause of that smell. The rational part of his
mind said it was nothing, but a small piece said it was Roderick. He had
been so jittery when he met the man earlier that day. Dominic half prayed
that Roderick was at the end of the trail his nose was leading him on.
Hey, now. A pair of strong hands clamped down on Dominics
shoulders, stopping him in his pursuit. Dominic opened his eyes. You
need to be more careful. Dont want you to fall and hurt yourself.
Roderick smiled down at him.
Dominic couldnt speak. The man he had been daydreaming about
since he met him stood right in front of him. Damn, he was even prettier
up close. No, not pretty, handsome. Nothing about Roderick was pretty.
He was all hard edges and masculine perfection.
Thanks, Dominic mumbled. Just got a little distracted is all.
I can tell. Roderick winked at him.
Dominic dipped his head down to hide the blush fanning over his
cheeks. He didnt want to look like a total moron in front of this man. It
was bad enough Roderick knew he suffered from brain trauma. He didnt
want the man to think he was crazy, too.
So I was wondering, Roderick said, letting go of Dominics arms.
Would you like to go for a walk with me? He nudged his chin toward
the backyard.
The Carsten family house backed up to a wooded area. They owned
a great deal of the land and Skyler and his husband owned the land just
north of the Carsten house. So calling the backyard a yard was a little
silly. It was more like their own personal forest.
Dominic loved taking long walks through the woods, enjoying all the
scents and sights. At times Dominic swore his vision got sharper as he
tracked a rabbit scurrying across the ground. A tingle would creep
across his skin and he had the strangest urge to follow the small animal.
But for the life of him, Dominic couldnt imagine what for.
Id love to, Dominic said with a smile and followed Roderick
down the porch steps.
You like being out here, dont you? Roderick asked.
I do. He put his hands in his pockets and his eyes felt heavy as his
body loosened from the tension of being inside all day. Being out
hereDominic canted his head to the side, indicating the wide-open
land in front of himis the only time I feel really comfortable. Its like
my skin doesnt feel so tight and my mind isnt running rapid with
questions I cant answer. Im at peace you could say. It was his favorite
thing to do, or at least it was now. What he enjoyed before was still a
mystery to him.
Interesting, was all Roderick said as they continued to walk out
toward the furthest part of the yard, leading into the trees.
Birds squawked as they neared the trees and took flight. The chirping
of crickets filled the night air. Dominic wanted to record the sounds that
played in the forest at night. The animals doing their nightly rituals, the
breeze howling through the thicket of trees, and then listen to the
recording when he went to bed at night.
He took a deep breath and the usual scents of the woods were
lessened by the smell of Roderick walking beside him. Rodericks smell
was so fresh and clean. Dominic thought having the comfort of the forest
around him and Roderick beside him made for the perfect evening.
So tell me a little about yourself.
Rodericks question pulled him out the calm tranquility he was
feeling. He looked over at Roderick and lifted an eyebrow. Are you
seriously asking me that?
Fuck me, Roderick whispered. His eyes fell shut and he hung his
head in shame.
Well since I dont know you that well, maybe a rain check?
Dominic didnt know where this teasing side of himself came from. At
seeing Rodericks apparent distress, it seemed like the right thing to say
to break the tension.
Did you just make a joke?
Dominic shook his head in disbelief. I think I did. He started to
laugh and so did Roderick.
The sounds of their laughter sent more birds to flight. Dominics
sides ached from laughing so hard. It felt good to finally be able to cut
loose with another person who didnt have any preconceived notions
about what he used to be like.
Im sorry about that whole tell-me-about-yourself comment.
Roderick said once he sobered up. I guess it would be kind of hard for
you since you dont remember yourself, or the self you used to be. A
low and rough chuckle vibrated out Rodericks full lips. I hope that
made sense?
Yes. Dominic started walking again. Perfect sense, and dont feel
bad. They say memory loss is quite common when a person has their
head caved in. His joked seemed to fall flat.
Roderick stopped walking and reached out a hand to stop Dominic as
he tried to put some distance between them. I didnt know you before
the accident so dont feel like youre not meeting some checklist of
expectations that I might have.
Its just Dominic couldnt seem to bring himself to meet the
mans eyes.
What? Roderick placed his finger under Dominics chin, lifting his
face to meet his steady gaze.
Everyone else gets this far off look in their eyes every time the
accident is brought up. Its like theyre on the verge of tears because they
miss their Dominic. His throat grew tight as his emotions started to get
the better of him.
Im sure they do, Roderick said. But that doesnt mean they dont
like the way you are now. Theyre just getting used to you and relearning
your likes and dislikes. Trust me, it must be just as big of a mind fuck for
them as it is for you. To know someone for so long and then, bam.
Roderick snapped his fingers. Every moment you shared with that
person is gone. Has to be rough. But you also cant be something youre
not. These guysRoderick thumbed over his shoulderare good
people. They understand that, even if they dont say it all the time. All
they want is for you to be comfortable in your own skin.
Dominic held Rodericks stare. The fingers that held his chin had
started to lightly caress his jaw. The words he spoke and the way
Roderick made him feel had all his doubts and worries floating away on
the wind. Somehow this man had the ability to make him feel good in a
way that had his body coming alive. It didnt matter that he couldnt
remember what his old job used to be or that he didnt like coffee
anymore. Those things seemed so trivial now.
I love the way you speak to me. Dominic gasped as Rodericks
rough fingertips continued to stroke his cheek. It was like a live wire
sparked against his skin, jolting him out of his self-made prison of stress
and worry.
Yeah, well I love the way you look at me. Roderick took a step
closer. Its like you see something that no one else does.
I feel the same way. Dominic took the remaining step forward,
bridging the gap between them. Why do you think that is?
The lines around Rodericks mouth went ridged as if he had to hold
back something he wanted to say but just as soon as Dominic noticed it,
it was gone.
Im not sure. Rodericks eyes darted between Dominics and he
edged even closer.
Dominic licked his tongue out to moisten his lips. He saw the way
Rodericks eyes tracked the movement. The heat from Rodericks touch
burned a desire deep in his gut. Dominic wanted to be closer but they
were already standing chest to chest.
Rodericks lips were right there. A buzzing sensation hummed over
his skin. He was dying to feel the way they felt under his own. The upper
lip was thinner than Rodericks lower. The bottom lip was full and fat
and made Dominic want to take a little nibble from it. He actually felt the
strong urge to just bite any part he could of the mans tan skin.
If I kiss you, you wont freak out and trip and bump your head?
Rodericks lips curled up into a teasing grin.
Ill try not to but I cant promise anything. Before Roderick could
initiate the kiss, Dominic rose up on his toes and slanted his mouth over
Rodericks.
The first contact of soft flesh against soft flesh had a moan seeping
past his lips. Nothing had ever felt so good. He wanted more. Dominic
snaked his arms up to wrap around Rodericks neck and Rodericks
arms moved to circle his waist. The hard press of steel behind his zipper
was met in kind by Rodericks. Rodericks arousal seemed to have
changed his scent. Made it stronger and spicier. God how Dominic just
wanted to climb inside the man and never come out.
The point of Rodericks tongue traced over his lips. He gasped in
pleasure and Roderick took that as an opening to sink his tongue deep
inside. The hot, moist heat and sweet flavor of Rodericks mouth sent
pulsing waves of need down to his cock.
The skin covering Dominics cock grew tight and flushed with heat
as a thrilling sensation coiled in his balls. He could feel wetness dampen
his shorts from where the head of his cock leaked. The harder Roderick
kissed, the harder Dominic rubbed his length into Rodericks. Roderick
groaned and circled his hips as Dominic thrust forward, wanting more
friction and more of that scorching kiss.
Dominics orgasm sat right at the edge, ready to plummet over some
invisible wall to ecstasy. He pulled Roderick tighter, his fingers curling
into the soft cotton of his shirt. Roderick yelped but didnt pull away and
Dominic didnt think he could, even if Roderick asked him to.
Roderick walked him backwards until he was backed against a tree,
the rough bark digging into his skin. He lifted Dominic up and Dominic
wrapped his legs around Rodericks narrow hips.
What are you doing? Dominic asked himself. You just met this guy
and you have your tongue down his throat. Was I this easy before?
Dominic didnt know and didnt care. Something that felt this good
couldnt be wrong.
Rodericks hips sped up, slamming Dominics back into the tree. He
broke the kiss and gasped for air. Roderick moved his mouth down to
kiss along Dominics jaw and nip at the sensitive skin of his neck. The
action had Dominic bucking wildly into Rodericks hard length.
A sharp piercing sensation pressed along his upper gum tissue,
distracting Dominic as his orgasm rocked through his body, flooding the
inside of his shorts. Roderick dove in for another kiss but Dominic
turned away. His mouth felt unusually full and he could feel pinpricks
along the sides of his tongue. It was strange and awkward but just as fast
as it happened the feeling started to fade and Dominic was only left with
a toe-curling pleasure that filled his body.
He reached for Roderick and met him in a hard kiss. Rodericks
tongue filled his mouth and Dominic sucked long and hard until he felt
Rodericks body go stiff and his hips jerked erratically. Roderick buried
his face into Dominics neck and groaned as his body emptied itself.
Dominic gulped for air, desperate to catch his breath. He clung to
Rodericks back, unwilling to let go. Since waking up two weeks ago to
a crowd of sad faces, this was the first time he felt truly happy.
God damn, Roderick mumbled against his neck then kissed the
chaffed skin. The whiskers on Rodericks jawline scratched against his
skin but Dominic thought it was worth it to have this man holding him in
his arms. I needed that.
Im glad I could accommodate you. Dominic smiled as he felt
Rodericks breath brush over his skin as he laughed. Just promise you
wont think less of me in the morning. I have a reputation to uphold. I
think.
Roderick pulled back enough to look at him. His lips pursed tight
together keeping in his laughter. As long as we get to do this again, Ill
only think good thoughts about you, always.
After they caught their breath, Roderick lowered his feet to the
ground. Dominic shifted uncomfortably in his shorts as the cooling cum
caused the material to stick to his skin. He had to have had a gallon of
jizz in there. He didnt know how sexually active he used to be but it had
been a good six weeks since he came and no telling how long before
that.
We should head back to the house before the others start to worry
that I injured you or something crazy like that. Roderick held out his
hand for Dominic to take.
Why would they think that?
The grip on his hand tightened for a brief second then loosened
again. Theyre weird like that. Roderick gave him a lopsided grin.
Okay, Dominic said as he let Roderick usher him back to the
Carsten house. He wasnt ready for his time with Roderick to be over.
When he was with Roderick he felt free and able to be himself without
feeling guilty for not being the person he was before. That Dominic was
a ghost now and Dominic wouldnt change a thing if it meant not having
Roderick in his life. It was silly for him to be so attached to a man he
just met, but something inside himself felt connected to Roderick as if he
knew him his whole life.
So, Dominic, Roderick said slowly. How would you feel about
going out to dinner with me some time?
Id love to. He rested his head against Rodericks thick arm. But I
need to make sure its okay with them first. He pointed toward the deck
where everyone sat outside eating dinner under the light of the falling
sun.
Dom, baby, youre a grown man who doesnt need permission to do
anything. He kissed the side of Dominics head. Plus youre with me
and I dont give a fuck what they say.
We heard that, asshole, Viktor shouted as they neared the back
deck.
What? Roderick kept ahold of Dominics hand as he led him up the
steps to sit at the table. Its the truth. If you want, we can box it out.
What dya say, Viktor, feeling lucky?
Blow me. Viktor threw his napkin at Roderick.
Dominic sat down at the table next to Roderick. Everyone was
laughing and joking. The atmosphere was lighthearted and comfortable.
Dominic smiled and laughed when appropriate. His hand still tucked in
tight with Rodericks. The world could end right now and Dominic
wouldnt care. He hadnt realized how unhappy he was until Roderick
walked into his life. Now he just needed to find a way to keep the man
coming back for more.
Chapter Six

So you and Dom are going to go out on a date? Erik asked, the
moment he sat down in the kids car.
Is this why you wanted me to ride back to Silver Creek with you?
So you can interrogate me? Roderick hit the lever to push the passenger
seat back so his knees didnt hit the dashboard.
No! Never! Erik said in a mock-astonished voice.
Yeah, right.
But really, did anything besides you two getting off happen while on
your walk?
Roderick knew Erik was concerned for Dominic and afraid of what
actions would be taken if Dominic went crazy after learning he was a
wolf shifter. He got that. After just spending part of an afternoon and all
evening with the man, Roderick didnt want to see anything bad happen
to the guy. For the first time in years, Roderick actually liked someone as
more than just a friend.
First off, that, my little friend, is none of your business. Roderick
reached down and pulled the front of his pants away from his body. The
dried cum made the material stiff. Then he thumped Erik on the ear. Erik
yelped and clasped a hand to his head. Hey, both hands on the wheel!
The car had started to swerve but Erik quickly righted it.
Fuck, Roderick, it isnt like we couldnt hear you two moaning and
grunting. Erik glanced down at Rodericks lap. Plus we can smell it.
A thoughtful look took over Eriks face. I wonder if Dom just thinks
hes a real good smeller and hearer. I mean, seriously, he might have lost
his memory but not his abilities. This has to be totally weird for him.
Roderick nodded his head in agreement. Poor Dominic probably just
thought it was normal though. But when the man found out the truth,
would he be able to accept it or be in denial over it? Now that was the
true question.
He doesnt know any different, Erik. He probably thinks we all
have excellent hearing and sense of smell. Roderick positioned his
elbow against the door and rested his head in his hand. Dominic did
mention to me tonight that he likes being outside. How he feels at home
and free out there. Roderick could still see the way Dominics face lit
up as he talked about being outside walking through the woods.
Thats a start, right? Erik asked. Wolves tend to be more
comfortable when surrounded by Mother Nature. This is a good thing.
Like you said, its a start, Roderick answered. I still cant believe
you guys have been able to keep him in the dark for the past two weeks.
Surely you guys are still shifting to go on runs at night?
We are, but everyone waits until he falls asleep. It doesnt feel right
doing that without him though. Its not fair. Erik whispered the last part.
Roderick didnt like having to deal with emotions or when people
were upset, but he felt the need to make Erik feel better. Erik, man, you
shouldnt feel guilty about this.
It was my fucking swim coach who did this to him! Erik shouted,
tears streaming down his face. I should have known the guy was
dangerous.
How? Roderick shifted in his seat to look at Erik. Youre a
shifter not a mind reader. And need I remind you this is the same man
who was planning on killing you next? The only person to blame is that
dead piece of shit.
He hadnt been in town when all that took place. Brandon had called
him afterwards and Roderick couldnt believe what had happened.
Eriks swim coach seemed like a nice enough man. No one would have
ever pegged him a killer of young men. But Roderick had learned in life
people wore many different faces.
I know but it doesnt change what happened to Dominic. Erik
swiped a hand under his eye. It must be so lonely for him inside his
own head. Not remembering anything or anybody. Erik looked over at
him. When we brought him home I could see the fear in his eyes. We
are strangers to him.
But its getting better, Erik. He pinched Eriks cheek and Erik
laughed. He might not remember you guys but he knows that you all care
a great deal for him. Who else besides family would go through all that
for him? Trust me, he appreciates it.
That seemed to help Erik and his tears dried up. When they pulled
into the drive, he headed for the door while Erik waited for Brandon to
park his truck.
Staying with Brandon had been okay before Erik moved in but now
he needed to start looking for his own place. The two lovebirds were
still newly mated and needed their own space without the fear of
Roderick walking in on them, or worse hearing them have sex. That was
the last thing Roderick wanted.
Roderick headed to his room and shut the door. He flopped down on
the bed, relieved he was finally able to lie down.
The thought of buying a house and settling down with someone had
never seemed important to him until now. He didnt know if it was
because he had become such good friends with Brandon and Eriks
family. But he knew if he looked more closely, under the tough guy act he
used to mask how he really felt, he knew it had everything to do with
Dominic. Now he just needed to help Dominic make that transition from
thinking he was human to coming to terms with being half human and half
wolf shifter, and then they could start a life together. Roderick hoped.

* * * *

After Roderick had left, Dominic went straight to his room and took
a shower. The dried cum on the inside of his shorts had grown
uncomfortable over the course of the evening and he needed to get it
cleaned up.
As the water washed over his body he sighed as the tension worked
its way out of his muscles. He hadnt realized how tired he was until
Roderick left and now he felt depleted and a little lonely.
Once finished with his shower, Dominic dried off and walked out
into his room. He turned off the bedroom light and settled himself in bed.
The green light from his clock flashed 9:50. Dominic didnt typically go
to bed that early but after experiencing all those new and exciting
sensations with Roderick, he was beat.
It didnt take long for him to fall into a deep sleep. Thoughts of
Roderick kissing him pulled him into the blissfulness of dreamland.
Dominic sat up in bed, clutching his comforter to his chest, a fine
layer of sweat coating his skin. He looked over at the clock and saw it
was well past one in the morning. Dominic raised both his hands to rub
against his head. Ever since he came to live at the Carsten house hed
been having weird dreams. The things he saw and felt in them werent
possible but still seemed so real.
The dreams were always the same. He dreamed that hed been
running in the woods, jumping over dead tree branches and leaping over
small hills. The wind blew against his face causing his eyes to water, but
he just ran faster. Every sound he heard magnified in his ears. The bright
greens in many different shades stood out like works of art only allowed
to be hung in a museum.
Dominic took in all the sights and sounds and it fueled his body to go
faster and faster. The ground was hard under his feet but it didnt deter
him from continuing on. He caught sight of a deer in the distance bent
over, drinking from a stream. Dominic veered off his path and headed
toward the animal. As he got closer, the deer must have heard his
approach and taken off. Stopping to catch his breath, Dominic bent by the
streams edge and was taken aback by his reflection.
It wasnt his face staring back at him but that of a large brindled-
colored wolf. As Dominic gazed at the creature in fascination, he
couldnt help but notice the grayish blue eyes staring at him. His eyes.
It was just a dream, Dominic whispered to himself as he climbed
out of bed. He headed to the bathroom, not bothering to turn on the light.
Even in the darkness, his vision was pristine. He could easily make out
the toilet, sink, and even the small decorative soaps that sat on the
counter.
After relieving his bladder, Dominic walked around his bed to look
out the large window that overlooked the back part of the Carsten
property. The crescent moon was still high in the clear night sky, casting
a soft glow toward the earth.
Dominic sighed and sat down on the bench seat that sat next to the
wall. Just looking out into the open space of nature took away the
uneasiness left by his dream. He couldnt fathom why hed dream about a
wolf or why he always put himself in the place of the wolf. It wasnt like
he ever saw one up close or even owned a dog, let alone a wolf. He
shrugged it off as just a weird wiring mishap in his brain.
As Dominic looked out toward the black horizon with slices of light
over the surface, movement from the trees tugged his attention away from
the wondrous sight. He glanced down and his heartbeat sped up.
No freaking way! Dominic mumbled.
Sitting right at the edge where the trees began and the clearing
stopped sat a wolf, no, two wolves. One was large with light brown fur
and one small with dark, almost black, fur. They sat there staring up at
the night sky. The little one nuzzled up close to the larger one and the one
with light brown fur licked its long tongue over the top of the smaller
wolfs head. Their fur had a glossy shine from the reflected light of the
moon.
Dominic leaned closer to the window to get a better look and banged
his forehead on the glass.
Shit! Dominic grabbed his head at the sharp sting blooming across
his forehead. He clenched his eyes tight and hissed out a breath. Giving
the spot a good rub, he opened his eyes. To his surprise, both wolves
were gone.
Dominic pressed his face to the window, his breath fogging up the
glass. He darted his eyes all over the lawn but he didnt see anything.
Out of habit, Dominic raised his left hand and touched the scar
grooved into his skull. Maybe he didnt really see those wolves sitting
outside. It could be a case of his overactive imagination getting the better
of him.
Giving up any hope of seeing anything else, Dominic crawled back
into bed. His eyes hung heavy with exhaustion and Dominic let them fall
shut. He pictured Rodericks strong, handsome face and thick arms
holding him tight. The heat from Rodericks body set a fire of need over
every inch of Dominics skin. The soft brush of Rodericks lips burned
his as Roderick kissed him with passion Dominic never knew existed.
Just like before, Dominic fell into a restful sleep without incident.
All thoughts of wolves forgotten as his subconscious became consumed
with thoughts of Roderick.
Chapter Seven

Roderick pulled up to the Carsten house just past six. He had made a
reservation for dinner in the neighboring town of Anderson. The quiet
little town was about an hour from Nehalem but had a lovely little
restaurant right on the lakefront that made it worth the drive. Roderick
had been there before and thought the homey atmosphere and being
outside would be good for Dominic.
Before he could shut his truck off, Dominic came hopping down the
steps, a huge smile on his face. He wore a pair of faded, dark-colored
jeans and a plaid button-up shirt with the sleeves rolled up. To top off
the ensemble he had flip-flops on, his bare feet just as pale as the rest of
him and Roderick had the strong desire to lick the high arch of the mans
foot.
Hey! Dominic opened the door and climbed inside. The smile he
wore made his lips look fuller and he had a twinkle in his eyes. His dark
hair had been styled to the side, covering the scar on the side of his head.
Everything about Dominic had Rodericks body thrumming with
desire. Just breathing the same air had his dick going from soft to hard
like flipping a switch. There had to be more at play then a simple
attraction. Roderick wasnt quite sure if that scared him or not.
Roderick couldnt tear his eyes from Dominics lips. The skin was
moist from his tongue. Unable to stop himself, Roderick reached out and
wrapped his hand around Dominics neck and pulled him close. He
covered Dominics lips, not giving him time to do anything but accept
what Roderick wanted to give him.
Dominics lips were soft and silky. They parted at the first jab of
Rodericks tongue. A slight whimper slipped past Dominics throat,
vibrating against Rodericks lips. He licked deep inside, growling at the
way Dominics curved against his, sucking it farther inside.
Roderick became lost in the kiss and the world outside seemed to
fade away. As their tongues tangled, Dominics hands curled into
Rodericks shoulders pulling him even closer. Roderick would never get
used to the strength hidden behind this mans thin body.
Roderick, not to be outdone, wrapped his other arm around
Dominics waist and lifted him into his lap. Dominic molded his thin
frame around him and Roderick pressed harder into the man, body and
mouth. The kiss seemed to short circuit all other thoughts from his head.
All that mattered was getting as close to Dominic as he could.
The need for air had Roderick pulling back from Dominics red,
swollen lips. He gave one final nip at which Dominics eyes fell shut
and he moaned loudly.
The sound of birds chirping had Roderick coming back to his senses.
If he didnt slow down hed end up fucking Dominic right there in the
front seat of his truck in broad daylight. He slowly placed Dominic back
into his seat but kept a grip on his hand.
We need to slow down. His voice was rough with arousal.
I think youre right. Dominic adjusted the steel pole lying against
his hip. Im not sure if Ive openly had sex in the past in front of an
audience but I dont think Id like that too much now. Dominic
chuckled.
Me either. Rodericks eyes roamed over Dominics body, stopping
to stare at the bulge in his pants. He quickly looked up. Id have to beat
the shit out of anyone that saw you naked. Your body is for my eyes
only. The possessive feeling seemed to come naturally to Roderick and
it felt right. He had no desire to share any part of Dominic with the
outside world.
I feel the same way. Dominics cheeks became flushed and he bit
down on his lower lip as he stared at Rodericks body in return.
You keep looking at me like that well never make it to dinner. His
cock pulsed in his jeans and he reach down to adjust himself.
Regardless of what just happened, Im not a cheap date. He turned the
key and his truck roared to life. You at least have to feed me first, he
said in a serious tone. I have a reputation to uphold.
Dominic gave him a curious look. His body had gone tense with
uncertainty. Roderick shot him a wink and then Dominic seemed to relax
and laughed. Well I wouldnt want to soil your good name.
Oh, baby, I have full intentions of soiling you plenty later, but first,
we eat.
He glanced over to see the small grin on Dominics face and his
cheeks burned a bright red. Dominic seemed so shy at times but then at
others he was like an animal. Last night in the woods and today in his
truck, granted Roderick instigated both encounters. Dominic seemed to
come alive and gave just as good as he got. Roderick couldnt wait to
see what happened once he had the other man underneath him, begging
for his cock.
So where are we going? Dominic asked.
Its a restaurant called the Lazy Blue. Its in Anderson. Thats about
an hours drive from here.
That explains why you picked me up so early.
Are you complaining? he teased.
Oh, no, never. Dominic made the gesture of crossing his fingers
over his heart. Just didnt know if you got some crazy discount for
eating early or something. Like a seniors discount.
Excuse me? Roderick turned toward Dominic. Im not that much
older than you.
Huh, really. Dominic gave a thoughtful look. I guess I dont know
much about you. Every time weve been alone you have your tongue
down my throat and I cant ask any questions. He could see Dominic
fighting back a grin.
I sure as shit didnt hear you complaining. Roderick reached out
and took Dominics hand into his. Its a long drive so ask me anything
you want. Im an open book.
Okay. Dominic was silent for a moment. How old are you?
Twenty-eight.
Are you from around here?
Nope. I grew up on the west coast. Out around San Jose. I came
here because of work.
California? Dominics eyes opened wide. I wonder if Ive ever
been out there before.
Im not sure. Roderick gave a little shake to Dominics hand. I
can always take you out there if you want? He couldnt believe he just
suggested that. The offer had come so easily from his mouth but he
wouldnt take it back. He liked the idea of being alone with Dominic out
on the open road away from Nehalem.
Really? Youd commit to going across the country with me? A
person you just met?
Of course, he said without one doubt in his mind. And to be fair, I
think I know you better than just some random person off the street. He
waggled his eyebrows. Like you said, I do seem to have my tongue
down your throat an awful lot.
Yeah, but I like it. Dominic raised their joined hands and kissed
the top of Rodericks knuckles.
Seeming content, they drove a few miles in silence. The quiet didnt
seem to bother Roderick. Just having Dominic next to him, touching him,
seemed to be enough.
Erik said you and Brandon work together. Whats it like being a
bounty hunter?
Rodericks left hand tightened on the steering wheel. Erik and
Brandon hadnt informed him thats what they said they did for a living.
If he thought about it, they were kind of like bounty hunters, just not
hunting humans to bring them back to face justice.
Its okay. I mean I get to travel a lot. He answered honestly
because that part was true.
I dont know if I could do that. Go searching for a person that might
shoot me just to get away. Dominic blew out a breath. Scary stuff.
You have no idea, Roderick said inside his head. At times hed
rather be attacked by a person with a gun instead of a three-hundred-
pound wolf hell bent on killing him or a trained hunter at odds with the
new creed set forth and wanting to kill him just to get Roderick out of the
way. A person with nothing to lose was definitely a terrifying thing.
They chatted a little more about their likes and dislikes. Roderick
discovered that Dominic hated math and numbers. This was odd since
the guy used to do accounting work all over Silver Creek before his
accident. What shocked Roderick the most was that Dominic said he had
no use for a computer. Hed rather be outside under the wide-open sky
enjoying life.
A part of Roderick wondered if this was just due his head trauma or
if Dominic hadnt liked what he did in his previous life prior to his head
injury and now his subconscious had him despising everything to do with
his old life. In a way, this was a brand new start for Dominic and
Roderick had no need for trying to get that person back. He liked
Dominic just the way he was now.
I really enjoyed working in the caf the other day, Dominic said
out of the blue. I like working with my hands.
Roderick had to swallow his moan as Dominic started to massage
the inside of his palm with his fingers. Yes, he loved that Dominic liked
working with his hands.
I think Margie should expand her store, make the caf side a little
bigger. That place is always so busy, but its small and people get their
coffee and go. Just think. If she had a larger seating area more people
would stay and spend more money. Shed make a killing if she did that.
You seemed to have put a lot of thought into this.
Some. Dominic shrugged. I just really enjoy working with
people.
They had arrived at the Lazy Blue and Roderick parked his truck. He
held his hand up to Dominic, signaling him to stay inside the cab. He
walked around and opened the door for his date.
Date. That still felt a little awkward but there was no turning back
now.
Dominic gave him a shy smile and accepted his hand in helping him
down. Roderick held his hand until they reached the front door then he
held it open and ushered Dominic inside. The hostess sat them outside,
close to the deck railing overlooking the water. The wind swept over the
lake, sending a soft breeze in their direction.
The waitress took their drink order and left to give them time to look
at the menu. When she returned, they placed their order and sat under the
shade of the deck overhang. Dominic had a huge smile on his face as he
stared out over the water. Roderick new this would be the perfect place
to bring him. Dominic needed to be in wide-open spaces with nature all
around him.
Roderick hoped that when Dominic did find out he was a wolf
shifter, hed be at ease knowing that it explained why he liked being
outside so much. If he connected with the land, it might lessen the blow
of his reality.
So whats the plan for later? Dominic asked. Is dessert on or off
the menu? He lifted his eyebrows up and down.
What am I going to do with you? Roderick laughed and reached for
Dominics hand again.
Hopefully keep me, Dominic whispered then quickly turned to
look away from him.
Roderick got up from his chair and walked over to kneel right in
front of Dominic. Dominic looked around them, eyes nervous.
That isnt even a question you need to ask. Roderick couldnt
believe he was saying this. I like you, Dominic. Sure we just met but I
know when I like something and I like you. He straightened on his knees
to brush a soft kiss over Dominics.
I like you, too. Dominic closed his eyes and rested his forehead
against Rodericks.
Good. He moved back and waited for Dominic to open his eyes.
Now lets enjoy dinner and if youre a good boy Ill let you order a
dessert thats not on the menu.
What he said had the desired effect. Dominic started to laugh and
seemed to be pulled out of his melancholy. More than ever, Roderick
wanted to help Dominic discover his wolf side. The thought of having to
hurt Dominic made his stomach sour.
As he sat and watch Dominic talk about the caf or point out a deer
sprinting across the open expanse of land next to the lake, he couldnt
bring himself to imagine a life without him. Hed never been in love
before but he had the distinct impression this was the beginning of it.
Chapter Eight

By the time the waitress came by with the check, Dominic couldnt
wait to leave. His fingers itched to reach out and touch Rodericks hands
and face. Fuck! Any part of the mans body he could get ahold of.
All through dinner he kept finding himself staring at Rodericks lips.
The top one was much thinner than the lower one but it looked right on
him, not disproportionate. Every time Rodericks tongue came out to lick
across them, Dominic had to squeeze his hands tightly together to keep
from jumping out of his chair and into the mans lap. He could still taste
the kiss from earlier on his tongue and he couldnt wait to do it again.
Then if it wasnt Rodericks mouth consuming all his attention it was
the mans caramel-colored eyes. The softness when he showed affection
or the wild glint when hed tease Dominic that had his balls twisting
together in agony. Did the man not realize how sexy he was? And what it
was doing to Dominic?
Roderick had a self-confidence about himself that Dominic could
only someday dream of having. Even in the mildly crowded restaurant
Roderick never hesitated to reach out to touch him, hold his hand, or
plant a soft kiss to his lips. He had no fear of what the other people might
think or say. Roderick just lived his life out loud and proudly and
Dominic admired that.
Where to now, Captain? Dominic asked.
How about a drive around the lake? Roderick opened the door for
Dominic to get into the truck. Youre in no rush to get home are you?
he asked with a tilt of his head.
No, Dominic answered. When Im with you theres no other place
Id rather be. And there wasnt. This man had become a daily
requirement for him to be happy.
Good answer, Dom, baby. Roderick gave him swift kiss on the
lips then turned him around to get in the truck. Dominic yelped when
Rodericks hand came down on his rear end, giving him a good smack.
Hurry up.
Yes, sir. Dominic saluted him.
Sir? He could see Roderick mulling that over in his mind. I like
the sound of that.
Of course you would. Dominic rolled his eyes then started to
laugh. Something tells me you might prefer master.
Roderick flashed him a wink then walked around to get into his side
of the truck. He pulled out of the parking lot and headed down the road.
Night had fallen and the light came from the stars shining bright
above them and the soft glow from the moon. The windows were rolled
down and the fresh scent of dirt and trees filled his nose. Dominic would
never tire of that smell.
Roderick drove further down the main road then hung a right. The
paved road turned to gravel and became bumpier. Before too long the
truck broke free of the cover of trees near a little open cove that fed into
the lake. Roderick pulled to the side then reversed around so the bed of
the truck faced the lake.
When Roderick got out, Dominic followed him. Roderick released
the latch on the tailgate and stepped up inside. He leaned down and
pulled a blanket out of the truck box next to the cab. He flattened out the
thick blanket than held out his hands. What do you think? Does it scream
romance?
Dominic looked from the twinkling stars above, out to the glass-like
surface of the dark water, and back to Roderick. The whole setting was
very romantic and had his heart doing flips in his chest.
I could fall in love with him. Dominics smile widened. He could,
and he was falling harder every second he spent with Roderick.
Its perfect, Roderick. Dominic took Rodericks hand when he
held it out to help him up onto the bed.
Roderick wrapped his arms around Dominics waist in a loose grip.
Dominic rested his hands on Rodericks chest. Roderick started a slow,
side-to-side sway and Dominic let him lead. The only music was that of
the insects in the grass but it was enough. Dominic had never danced
with another person before, or at least that he remembered. It amazed
him that this big, strong man held him so gently in his arms, arms that
could easily crush Dominic. It made him feel special.
Slowly Rodericks arms started to rub up and down Dominics back.
Is this okay?
The hard press of Rodericks cock against his stomach had him
stammering, Yeah.
Roderick started to roll his hips forward in a steady grind and
Dominics aching cock pulsed in his jeans. Every time Dominic tried to
get closer, Roderick would take a step back. Dominic felt like his skin
was going to fall off. He wanted Roderick now.
Dominic used his fingers to outline the thick corded muscle hidden
under Rodericks shirt. Roderick groaned as Dominics fingers started to
play with his nipples. Both peaks were tight and hard and Dominic
couldnt seem to keep his fingers off of them. Roderick buried his face in
Dominics neck and started to nibble on the soft skin where his shoulder
and neck connected. The wet swipe of his tongue had Dominic gasping
for breath.
Dominic circled his arms over Rodericks neck and lifted his left leg
to rest on Rodericks hip. It opened Dominic up more to grind his
erection harder against Rodericks thigh. He could feel the ripple in
Rodericks muscles as he tensed up.
Roderick lowered his hands to grip Dominics ass. He squeezed tight
then lifted him up, causing a whimper to break as Dominics body came
into contact with Rodericks. His flip-flops fell to the ground as he
locked his feet at the ankles to hold himself in place. The position they
were in had both their hard lengths aligned.
Theres no way to go slow with you. Roderick said as he kissed
his way up Dominics neck, heading toward his mouth.
I dont want you to go slow. He cried out at the sharp sting of teeth
biting into his flesh. It didnt break the skin but it stoked the flames
already burning inside him. Dominic pulled his face away to stare into
Rodericks eyes. His fingers brushed along the stubble on his jaw. The
light reflected the need in the brown depths, the same need clawing at
Dominic. I need you.
Like a wild animal set loose, Roderick growled his victory and
covered Dominics lips in a bruising kiss. Roderick then dropped to his
knees pushing Dominic down on his back, forcing himself between
Dominics thighs. The blanket softened the impact but it didnt matter.
Dominic would let Roderick have him on the hard, dirty ground as long
as it got him what he wanted.
Dominic pushed up on the hem of Rodericks shirt, wanting to see
more of his body. Roderick sat back on his heels and then pulled it off
the rest of the way, exposing his rock-hard abs. A fine layer of hair
covered his chest. With the shirt gone it gave Dominic free rein to do as
he wished.
His finger traced down the groove between Rodericks pectoral
muscle then lower down to the dips and valleys of his abs. Rodericks
chest rose and fell with every inhale of breath he took. He could hear the
grind of teeth as Roderick clenched his jaw tightly together. Dominic
liked that his man was barely holding on to his control and he wanted to
see what happened when that control slipped from his grasp.
Letting his fingers go lower, Dominic sat up with his legs still spread
and started on the fastening to Rodericks jeans. He looked up to watch
Rodericks face as he pulled his thick and long cock free. His face
tensed up and his lips pursed together.
Dominic lowered his eyes to stare at the prize in his hand. The plump
purple head had a bead of excitement glistening at the tip. Leaning
forward, Dominic tasted Rodericks juices. Rodericks hands moved to
the top of his head but didnt force Dominic down on his length. Dominic
lapped his tongue around the head as he let his fingers stroke up and
down the veiny underside.
The strong, manly scent of Roderick was like a drug to Dominics
body. He couldnt touch him enough or taste him enough. There would be
no way hed ever grow tired of this.
Come on, baby, Roderick said in a low whisper. Take more
inside that hot fucking mouth of yours.
At Rodericks request Dominic went down deep until his nose was
tickled by the short, trimmed hair surrounding Roderick cock.
Fuck me, you dont have a gag reflex, Roderick moaned. Dominic
looked up, mouth stretched wide around Rodericks girth. This is going
to be fun.
Dominic didnt get a chance to register what that meant before
Roderick pulled almost all the way out then slammed forward, filling his
mouth and throat with his length. He sucked and slurped around the shaft,
drool dripping down his chin.
Thats it. Take it all. Roderick groaned. Never had a guy suck my
cock this good before.
The thought of another man doing this to Roderick pissed him off.
Dominic reached around and curled his fingers into the tight muscle of
Rodericks ass, forcing him forward. He needed to prove he was the
only man Roderick would ever need.
Fuck, Dom. Roderick used his hand to try and urge Dominic to
look up but he ignored him and went down deeper, swallowing around
the flared head. Dominic! Roderick snapped as he simultaneously
pulled Dominic by the hair to get him to release his cock. Dominic
looked up panting for breath. You need to watch those nails, baby.
Roderick rubbed his thumb over Dominics lips and Dominic sucked
the digit into his mouth. He circled his tongue around it and hummed as
Roderick pushed it in and out of his mouth. Dominic didnt look away as
Roderick fingered his mouth slow and steady over and over again.
Dominics cock grew harder in his jeans and the material bit into the
sensitive skin. Roderick must have seen the frustration on his face and
pulled his hand away.
Take off your clothes butRoderick held up a handdont get
up. I want you to stay just like that on your back. Roderick jumped off
the back of the truck, his cock bouncing from the effort.
As Dominic yanked his shirt over his head, Roderick disappeared to
around the front of the truck. By the time he came back, Dominic had his
pants flung off and lay there stroking his dick.
Did I say you could touch yourself? Roderick asked in a stern
voice.
No, sir. Dominic shook his head from side to side and took his
hand away from his aching cock. You didnt.
Rodericks nostrils flared as he took a deep breath and Dominic
could see the mans hands tremble. He tossed whatever was in his hand
up on the blanket then climbed back up and wedged himself between
Dominics spread thighs. The blunt tip of Rodericks cock jabbed at the
sensitive flesh right behind his balls as he rocked into Dominic, pulling
moans from the light, teasing touch.
I fucking love that. Roderick braced his hands on either side of
Dominics head then came down to attack his lips, assaulting Dominic
with his forceful tongue.
Dominic opened wide, letting Roderick have his way. It felt good to
lose himself in this mans touch. Suddenly Roderick broke the kiss and
started working his way down Dominics body. Roderick licked and
nipped at his nipples. The sharp pain lessened by the wet warmth of his
tongue.
The lower Roderick went, the more Dominic started to thrash around
underneath him. Only Rodericks mouth touched and teased his body and
it drove Dominic insane. He wanted to feel those rough, hard fingers
caressing him, bringing him pleasure.
As if reading his mind, Roderick sat up and grabbed Dominics
ankles, pushing his legs toward his chest. Dominic bent his knees and let
Roderick position him until his knees nearly reached his ears.
Put your arms around your thighs and hold yourself open for me.
Roderick waited until he did so before he let go. Good boy. Now dont
move. He gave Dominic a mischievous grin as he lowered his head.
Yes, sir. Dominics words ended with a squeal as Roderick blew
his breath out on Dominics exposed hole. The hot gust sent shivers over
his skin and Dominics grip on his legs tightened.
At the first touch of Rodericks tongue at his entrance, Dominic cried
out and would have pulled his thighs tightly together had it not been for
Rodericks broad shoulders between his legs. Roderick licked around
the rippled opening, flattening his tongue to paint his spit over Dominics
hole. Dominic moaned and pushed his ass back toward Rodericks
teasing tongue, needing more of that sensation.
Fuck, yeah, Dominic shouted when Rodericks tongue pierced his
opening, breaching the muscle barrier. All the blood in his body rushed
to his inflamed cock, making it harder. He so badly wanted to wrap his
fingers around his length and stroke himself until he came but he couldnt
do that, not without Rodericks permission.
His body responded to the wet, soft invasion of Rodericks tongue,
opening up, letting Roderick go in deeper. A finger slid in beside his
tongue, going smooth from all the spit Roderick shoved up his ass. The
dual sensations of tongue and finger had Dominic whimpering. Please,
sir, I need to come.
Rodericks deep, rich chuckle fanned another breeze over Dominics
oversensitized hole. Roderick sat up and pulled his finger from
Dominics ass. The loss made Dominic feel empty but he watched
Roderick reach for the condom he had tossed on the blanket earlier.
Dominic pulled his legs further apart so he could watch Roderick
sheathe his red, swollen cock in the thin latex casing. He reached for
another little pack and used his teeth to tear it open. Roderick squeezed
the clear liquid out on his fingers then rubbed it along his length.
Roderick moved closer and lined up his erect cock right at his
opening. The head brushed over the tender flesh, smearing the lube over
his hole. Then without warning Roderick pushed forward, the head
breaching his entrance.
At the sharp, burning sting, Dominic closed his eyes. Rodericks
cock felt too big and only the head was inside him. He felt like he was
being split in two and didnt know if he could take any more than the
small portion of the tip.
Open your eyes and look at me. Dominic unclenched his eyes and
did as Roderick said. Good boy. I want you to watch as I fuck your
ass. The sharp tone he used implied there was no room for debate on
the issue.
So Dominic took a deep breath and kept his eyes on Rodericks hard
face. Slowly Roderick rocked his hips forward, feeding his cock a little
further inside then retreating but leaving the head in him. Back and forth,
over and over again, Roderick did this until he laid all nine inches of his
pipe deep in Dominics clinching, tight channel.
So fucking tight. Rodericks eyes fell shut and his head rolled back
on his shoulders. Like a virgin.
After giving Dominic a moment to adjust, Roderick pulled out then
pushed back in, setting up a slow, easy rhythm. Dominic grew desperate
to feel the fullness and stretch of Rodericks thick cock claim him,
marking him from the inside out.
You okay? Roderick asked.
Yes, sir. Dominic swiveled his hips, pulling a loud groan from
Roderick. Now fuck me.
A wild, animalistic look came over Rodericks face and his hands
gripped hard on the back of Dominics thighs. He pushed them farther up,
knees nearly touching the bed of the truck, and slammed home, forcing a
gasp from Dominics lips.
Sweat dripped from Rodericks body as he pounded harder and
harder into Dominic. Dominic tilted his ass up higher, letting Rodericks
hot staff go deeper. He whimpered as the tip brushed over the bundle of
nerves in his ass. Fireworks flashed behind his eyes each time Roderick
nailed that spot.
No further words were spoken as they chased down their own
release. Their loud grunts and drawn-out moans overpowered all other
sounds coming from the woods behind them.
A pained look came over Rodericks face and Dominic could feel
his cock swelling inside him. Roderick sped up his movements. He lifted
up one hand to wrap his fingers around Dominics cock, wanting them to
finish together, but Dominic had other ideas.
He knocked Rodericks hands away and with strength he didnt know
he had, rolled over, and pushed Roderick to his back.
What the hell?
Dominic silenced Roderick with a hard kiss. The shift in positions
had Rodericks cock hitting at a different angle inside him and he gasped
out his delight at the full feeling and the pleasure from every up and
down glide. He used his thighs to move faster and faster. His body
propelled forward, the tension in his balls boiling, demanding to be set
free.
Roderick dug his fingers into Dominics narrow waist to help guide
him down on each thrust of his hips. They were moving so fast his balls
slapped against Rodericks creating an erotic tingling sensation inside
his body.
Dominic let his head fall back on his shoulders and enjoyed the ride
he was on. He couldnt believe how free he felt. Having Rodericks
cock buried so far inside him made Dominic feel complete. He didnt
care if he ever remembered his other life. He had Roderick in this one
and nothing would ever compare.
A sharp, prickly feeling pushed at his gums and Dominics head
snapped up. Roderick had his head buried into Dominics chest, licking
and sucking at his nipples. The urge to push Roderick away and wrench
his head to the side became overwhelming. His mouth felt full and heavy
and all he wanted to do was bite down into the hard muscle of
Rodericks shoulder.
Im close, Roderick mumbled against his fevered skin, and
Dominic jolted on Rodericks cock when he felt his hot fingers wrap
around his leaking cock.
Dominics vision seemed to grow sharper and he panted for breath
as he stared forward, letting the fire in his body erupt. The cock inside
him became thicker and pulsed a steady beat as Roderick roared out his
release. The mans hand never faltered on Dominics cock and just as he
felt his cum spurt out from the tip he bent forward and embedded his
teeth into Rodericks shoulder.
The man cried out. Dominic couldnt tell if it was from pleasure or
pain at first. Then he felt another shudder rumble through Roderick
ringing another, smaller orgasm from the man.
As their bodies stopped moving, Dominic slumped forward. The
coppery taste of blood flooded his mouth and he jerked away. He was
horrified by what he had done. Blood dribbled out red, angry, piercing
holes. He couldnt believe he had done that. He shifted and tried to
climb off of Rodericks lap.
Dom, stop. The kindness in Rodericks voice was too much and he
struggled to get free but his tired, sedated body wouldnt let him.
Im so sorry. He covered his hands over his mouth, his fingers
smearing Rodericks blood into a bigger mess. He thought he must look
like a monster. I dont know what came over me. Tears ran down his
cheeks to further contaminate the mess on his face.
Shh. Roderick pulled Dominics hands away from his face and
cupped Dominics cheeks. Baby, its fine. Im fine. He shook
Dominics head lightly. You got carried away, so what?
I hurt you, he stammered out as another set of tears dripped from
his eyes.
Roderick glanced down the best he could at the bite mark then
looked back up to meet Dominics red, swollen eyes. That is nothing. If
anything, it was kind of hot.
Dominic didnt believe him and tried to pull free of Rodericks
strong hold.
Roderick growled out a curse then crashed his lips to Dominics. His
tongue licked into his mouth and Dominic knew the man could taste his
own blood on Dominics lips. After a thorough kiss, Roderick let him
go. Blood had been smeared across his face and Dominic thought if
someone came upon them now theyd run for the hills in fear.
Youre not mad at me? Dominics eyes darted between Rodericks
searching for the truth.
Fuck no! Roderick said loudly. That was the hottest sex Ive ever
had in my freaking life. The grin Roderick gave him eased Dominics
guilt. Plus if I got pissed at you for that, how would I get my second
helping of this sweet ass? Roderick squeezed his butt cheek to
emphasize his point.
Seconds, huh? At seeing Rodericks smiling face, the weight he
pressed down on himself started to lift.
Lets face it, Dom, baby. Im not sure if I will ever get my fill of
you.
Dominics heart expanded in his chest and he thought he might die
from happiness right there in the middle of the woods in Rodericks
truck.
I like the sound of that. Dominic rested his forehead against
Rodericks. Im ready when you are.
They both began to laugh and Dominic curled his body tighter around
Roderick. So many things he didnt understand since waking up, but one
thing he knew for sure, he was falling head over heels in love with
Roderick Morgan.
Chapter Nine

After a little post-best-sex-of-his-life cuddling, they got dressed and
headed back to Silver Creek.
Roderick wasnt ready for Dominic to leave his sight after what just
happened between them and suggested Dominic stay the night with him.
That worried look that Dominic always seemed to wear came out in full
force and wouldnt go away until Roderick phoned the Carsten house to
inform them that Dominic would be staying the night with him.
The drive back to his house was done in silence. Dominic had dozed
off and Roderick sat in his seat watching as the white lines passed by,
trying to analyze what he just let happen. He wasnt stupid. He knew
what it meant when a wolf bit a person that they thought was their mate.
It was like being married.
What the fuck have I gotten myself into? Roderick ran a hand over
his head and let out a heavy sigh.
Dominic didnt know what he was and Roderick couldnt muster up
one ounce of anger toward the man. Dominic only did what felt natural
for him to do during sex.
Roderick hadnt realized until now as he drove in the silence of the
night that he had already accepted that Dominic was his. Even if they
werent true mates, hed never let Dominic get away from him. If one
day Dominic woke up and realized all this was some big mistake and left
him, Roderick knew hed hunt the man down all over the world until he
had him back. This wasnt a typical feeling he had ever had. Roderick
blamed it on the mating bond. There could be no denying it.
When they reached his house he parked his car in the free space in
the driveway. He gave a light shake to Dominics arm to wake him.
Dom, were here.
Dominic jerked awake and sat up looking around him as if he were
afraid. It took a few seconds of heavy breathing for his focus to land on
Roderick. Dominics face softened and he smiled at him.
The house was dark and it appeared that Brandon and Erik were
already asleep, but no such luck. No sooner had they opened the door did
a loud piercing howl come from down the hallway. Roderick cringed
internally at what he knew was taking place in that bedroom and that
Erik just howled. Not just any howl but the sound a wolf would make.
Shit!
What was that? Dominic turned to ask.
Roderick didnt know what to say. Telling the truth wasnt an option.
Oh you know. He swallowed around the lump of nerves in his throat.
Brandon and Erik having a little alone time if you know what I mean.
Dominics lips rounded into an O and his eyes went wide. Theyre
so loud. He laughed.
Well, you werent all that quiet earlier yourself. Roderick walked
Dominic backwards until his back came flush with the wall. I loved the
soundshe traced a finger over Dominics lipsyou make.
Dominic stared up at him, his eyelids falling shut as he reached
toward him, and Roderick was just about to kiss him when a loud
banging came from Brandons room. He had to bite his tongue to keep
from shouting down the hall to tell them to keep it quiet.
Why dont you show me your room? Dominic reached up to kiss
his lips then gently pushed at Rodericks chest. It might get awkward if
they come out and know we heard them having sex.
It would serve them right though. He led Dominic to his room. He
didnt bother turning on the light.
Once in his room, Dominic stood there with a look of panic in his
eyes. After everything they just did, Roderick thought it was cute that
hed be nervous.
Come on, Dom. Roderick pulled off his shirt and went for the
button on his jeans. Lets get into bed. When Dominic headed for the
bed, Roderick held up a hand to stop him. Clothes off first. Anyone in
my bed has to sleep naked. Its a rule, he teased.
Oh really? Dominic chuckled. Who am I to disobey? Dominic
stepped out of his flip-flops and removed his clothes and tossed them to
the floor.
Rodericks eyes were glued to all that pale skin as Dominic crawled
up on the bed and pulled the sheets down. In the darkness Dominics
body looked like he had been made of marble, so flawless and beautiful.
Without further hesitation, Roderick yanked off his jeans and got on
the bed, curling up behind Dominic. Dominics body radiated heat and
smelled of man and sex. God, Roderick could get drunk on that
combination. He dipped his head down to nuzzle his nose in the soft skin
behind Dominics ear. It didnt take long for Rodericks body to respond
and he positioned himself so that his hardened cock fit perfectly between
Dominics rounded ass cheeks, right in the crease.
He felt Dominics body tense and he rubbed a hand over his belly.
Just as quickly, he could feel Dominic relax and melt into him, pushing
his ass further into Rodericks lap.
Have you ever had sex in this position before? Dominic looked
over his shoulder at him.
Never. Roderick shook his head as he pulled Dominic closer to his
chest and started to nibble on his neck, as he ground his hardness
between his slim cheeks.
Liar. Dominic whimpered.
Roderick angled his cock rubbing at Dominics crease. The feel of
the bare skin against his shaft had Roderick wanting to fuck his lover
with nothing between them. Never in his life had he ever had unprotected
sex but with Dominic it seemed wrong to not plunge his naked cock deep
inside his silky smooth body.
How do you feel, baby? Roderick laid his hand over Dominics
cock and gave a gentle squeeze. All seven solid inches of Dominics
manhood pulsed against his fingers. You ready for round two?
Fuck yeah, Dominic moaned, arching his back.
He pulled away from the comfort of Dominics body to grab a
condom and the lube. As he clutched the condom in his fist, it seemed
such a waste. Dominic, being a wolf shifter, didnt carry diseases like
humans did. He so badly wanted to toss it to the ground and feel how
perfectly Dominics clenching hole felt around his naked cock.
Everything okay?
Roderick put the foil packet to his mouth and ripped the package
open. He held Dominics stare as he rolled the condom down his length
then flipped the top on the lube and squeezed some out. Everything will
better once Im inside of you. After covering his shaft in the slickness
he moved up behind Dominic and ran his hand down Dominics flank
until his hand rested just below his hip. You ready for me?
Dominic nodded his head. Roderick grabbed the base of his cock and
positioned the tip at Dominics hole. With one steady movement he
pushed inside, Dominics body still loose from their early encounter.
Dominics scorching heat sucked him right in, drawing him deeper
and deeper. He didnt stop until he was pressed flush against Dominics
back. Roderick moved one arm under Dominics head and draped the
other over his chest and held still, letting Dominic get used to the
fullness.
With precise, measured movements, Roderick pulled out just a little
then pressed back in. Dominic moaned loudly and wrapped his hands
around Rodericks arm in a pinching grip. Roderick kissed and licked
along the back of Dominics neck, tasting the salt as he began to sweat.
Roderick rolled his hips and fucked Dominic in slow, long strokes.
They moved together like a rolling wave crashing to the shore. The build
was slow but getting stronger with every thrust.
Dominic pressed back into Roderick with a little more force each
time, driving Roderick out of his mind with the need to come. He lost
himself to sensation and drilled into Dominic with powerful thrusts. He
squeezed his palm around Dominics length and tugged in short pulls.
Roderick was close and wanted to feel Dominic come apart around his
cock.
RRoderick, Dominic stuttered as hot cream pumped over his
fingers.
He growled into Dominics shoulder as the mans ass clamped down
on his invading pole, his body relinquished its hold on his orgasm, and
he came in a fierce grunt, hips twitching, filling the condom with his
seed.
Once he got his breathing under control, Roderick pressed a kiss to
Dominics shoulder then as easily as he could slipped free of Dominics
body. He removed the condom and let it fall to the floor then rolled back
to his lovers side.
I cant believe I dont remember how much fun that is. Roderick
could hear the smile in Dominics voice.
I rather like you not remembering that. Roderick smacked Dominic
on the ass.
Hey. Dominic rolled over to face him. His smiling face like a
golden ray of sunshine shining down from heaven. The sight of it just
brightening up Rodericks world. What was that for?
Because when youre with me, I want to be the only person youre
thinking about. The truth of what he said nearly took his breath away.
Or want to be with.
I feel the same way about you. Dominic stared off at something
over Rodericks shoulder then after a moment met his stare. When Im
with you theres no other place Id rather be. I feel whole in here. He
laid a hand over Rodericks chest, fingers feather light. How can this be
happening so quickly? Dominic flipped backwards on his back, shutting
his eyes. And what is this? God, I must sound like some lovesick kid.
Dominic peeked out the corner of his eye. Am I scaring you away yet?
No. Roderick started to laugh.
What the hell, man? Dominic sat up and braced his weight on his
left arm. I bare my heart to you and you laugh in my face. Thats it. No
more of this for you. He made a sweeping motion over his body.
Hey, now. Lets not be too hasty. Roderick used his weight to push
Dominic back down into the mattress then lay on top of him. You love
the things I do to all this. He wiggled his hips where they lay nestled
between Dominics spread thighs.
Dominic moaned and reached his arms around Rodericks neck and
pulled him down for a kiss. After just a few kisses, Roderick pulled
away and moved back to his side of the bed and draped his arm over
Dominics stomach.
I really do like being with you. Dominic rolled to his side and
toyed with the fine hair covering Rodericks chest. The action sent a
chill down his back.
I like being with you, Dom. Now with Dominic facing him, he
kissed the tip of his nose.
Can I ask you a question? Dominics looked up through his thick
eyelashes, hesitation in his eyes.
Shoot.
Do you have a family? I mean obviously you came from one, but do
you have anyone besides your friends that are close to you? Devon told
me I came to live with them when I was a teenager and never spoke
much about my family. Just that I was all alone. Dominic rushed to
explain. I guess Im asking if theres anyone else you need to get back
to?
Roderick hated thinking about the past. It never served anyone any
good to dwell on things that couldnt be changed, but he did owe
Dominic some information about his life.
No, I dont have anyone waiting at home for me. The strong, bitter
taste of how life could be cruel stung on his tongue. My father died
when I was just a baby. After he got out of the Marines he became a cop.
One night he stopped some guy in a routine traffic stop. The guy had been
speeding. As my dad approached the car, the driver shot him. He died
later at the hospital.
Thats awful. Dominic cuddled closer to Rodericks side.
It was, but I was so young I never got the chance to know him.
Sometimes its better that way. Losing his father sucked but he never
got the chance to know the man before he was taken from him. All he had
were stories of the man his father used to be.
But still its not fair.
No it isnt, but whats really not fair is that my mother was
diagnosed with breast cancer when I was a senior in high school. By the
time the doctors had caught it the cancer had spread to her lymph nodes
and there wasnt much they could do for her. The anger of that day still
had the ability to makes his teeth cringe and fists tighten. As if it wasnt
bad enough that god had taken my father, now he was taking my mother in
a slow, painful death. His body tensed and tears burned at the backs of
his eyes. This was why he didnt like thinking about the past. To show
emotion was to show weakness and Roderick never wanted to feel that
weak again.
Roderick, I dont know what to say. Dominic pressed a soft kiss to
the center of his chest. I dont think Ive ever felt that kind of pain
before, but if I had Im glad I cant remember it.
Yeah, its something I wouldnt wish on my worst enemy. He idly
ran his hand up and down Dominics back, tracing each vertebra with his
fingertips. She died a month before I was set to graduate from high
school. Once she was gone I packed up the house with the stuff I wanted
to keep then put the house on the market. There wasnt anything left for
me there so I joined the marines after graduation and never looked
back.
You did that all on your own? Dominic asked. No other family
members to help you?
Roderick shrugged. My mom had a sister but she was younger and
had a family of her own to raise. She didnt need another mouth to feed
hanging around.
Did you even give her the chance?
He hadnt. If he got close to his aunt and her family and if something
happened to them, then what? He couldnt stand to lose any more people
he cared about. Lets talk about something else.
Roderick
Please, Dom. He held his lover tight. All that is in the past now
and I want to keep it there. Roderick used his hands to lift Dominics
face to his. I will not regret a single thing I did after my mom died
because the path I took led me to you.
You believe that? Roderick could hear the tears in Dominics
voice and his body began to tremble.
With every part of my being. Yes, we just met, but Ive never felt
this way about anyone before. He let the magnitude of what he was
saying sink in. Im not just in this for a good time. I like you, Dom.
I like you, too. Dominic sniffled.
Thats good. Roderick smiled and leaned down to kiss Dominic
passionately on the lips.
They lay there kissing and cuddling tightly together for a while
longer. A yawn made Dominics jaw pop and Roderick suggested they
get some rest. Sharing his past with another person had drained Roderick
both mentally and physically. But it felt good to tell Dominic. It made
him feel closer to Dominic and for the first time in forever that didnt
scare him.
Chapter Ten

The next morning Roderick left Dominic sleeping, curled up in a ball
on his bed. Dominic looked so peaceful lying there. The soft glow of his
skin in the morning light took Rodericks breath away. His black hair lay
in disarray on his head. Dominic was so warm and cuddly Roderick
wouldnt have minded staying tucked in close to all that bare flesh of
naked man all day long but the fullness in his bladder had him getting up.
Roderick dragged on his discarded jeans from the previous night and
pulled a clean shirt over his head. The bite Dominic had gifted him with
was a bright, angry red. The last thing he wanted was for Erik or
Brandon to see. Theyd want answers to questions Roderick just
couldnt answer yet.
He shut the door behind him and walked down the hallway. He used
the restroom first then headed toward the kitchen. He could hear
someone clattering around and found himself not looking forward to any
type of Did Dominic remember anything yet? conversation.
To his dismay, Erik stood facing away from him, putting water in the
coffee maker. The man stood there in a pair of royal blue boxer briefs
tight enough to leave nothing to the imagination. Eriks rounded little
bubble butt was on perfect display. It was a good thing Roderick didnt
find the annoying little shit attractive or encounters like this could be
really awkward.
Stop staring at my ass, Erik said without turning around.
Yeah, right. Dont flatter yourself. Roderick went to the fridge and
pulled out the orange juice. He took a drink straight out of the carton.
How did you know it was me standing there and not Brandon?
I can smell you. Erik turned around and leaned against the counter,
crossing his arms over his bare chest. He sniffed the air. So I take it
Dom stayed the night as well?
I understand its just your wolfy senses but that shit is creepy. He
pointed a finger at Erik. And you need to watch what you say.
Erik peeked around the corner then looked back to Roderick,
lowering his voice. So still nothing?
Its only been two days, Erik. Im not a miracle worker. Now that
would have been perfect. Then he could help Dominic remember without
him freaking out. But miracles seemed to run in short supply in
Rodericks life.
The younger mans face fell sullen. I know, Im just worried about
him.
I know you are, Erik, but we cant push him to remember either.
He patted Erik on the shoulder as he walked past to retrieve a cup from
the cabinet. Itll come. I have complete faith in that.
You have faith? Erik cocked an eyebrow at him, then a knowing
look spread over his young face. Oh, my, god! Youve fallen in love
with him havent you?
What? Roderick glanced over his shoulder to make sure Dominic
wasnt standing there listening. He absentmindedly reached up and
rubbed at the bite mark. Dont be crazy.
Dont deny it. It doesnt suit you. Erik filled his coffee mug to the
brim. Its that mating magic.
Roderick rolled his eyes. He wasnt a wolf and he wouldnt say
what he felt was because of some mystical occurrence between two
mates. What he felt for Dominic was his and his alone.
Lets not forget Im not a wolf shifter so that shit doesnt affect me.
Roderick wanted to play it cool. The thought of getting his heart broken
made his stomach ache and his mouth go dry.
Bullshit. Ive seen the way Aiden is around Devon and how Noah is
around Skyler. Wolf or not, you feel it.
Eriks grinning face should have annoyed him but the little shit was
right. Try as he might, he was falling in love with Dominic but he chose
to believe he would have felt this way even if Dominic wasnt a wolf
shifter.
Like I said, its none of your business. He took a seat at the table
and busied himself with looking at the newspaper.
I dont mean to be a busybody. I just hope and pray that the
connection you guys share will be strong enough to help Dominic deal
with the inevitable, Erik said in a hushed tone.
What are you talking about? Roderick glanced up at Erik.
Im only speaking for myself, but I couldnt imagine not knowing I
was a wolf shifter. To not have any previous knowledge of who and
what you are until bam! Erik clapped his hands together. You shift into
a huge fucking wolf. He blew out a breath. Talk about messing with
your mind.
Yeah, thats what Roderick was afraid of. Before he had the chance
to respond, the sound of shuffling feet came from down the hall. A few
seconds later, a bleary-eyed Dominic came into the kitchen.
Dominic looked down at Eriks underwear-clad ass then to his face.
Dude, dont you own a pair of pants?
Roderick took a drink of his juice to keep from laughing out loud.
Good morning to you, too. Erik grabbed the hand towel from the
wall hook and put it over his groin area. I guess Ill go put on some
clothes so as to not offend anyone. He tried to sound as if he were upset
but Roderick saw the small traces of a smile on his lips.
Oh come on, Erik! Roderick called out to him as he left the
kitchen. Dont be mad. We love you. We just love it when you have
more clothes on.
You dont think hes that upset do you? Dominic looked over his
shoulder in the direction Erik left. Maybe I should go and apologize.
Roderick stood up and grabbed Dominic around the wrist. He sat
back down and pulled Dominic to sit on his lap. He knows you were
just kidding. He placed a tender kiss to velvety smooth lips, losing
himself to the luscious flavor of his lovers mouth. Mmm, I love the
way you taste.
Thanks, Dominic whispered, his eyelids gone heavy.
Did you sleep well? Roderick patted him on the hip then moved
Dominic around to sit in the chair while he got up to make breakfast.
I got to say, for only getting a few hours of actual sleep, I feel
great. The smile on Dominics face overwhelmed his youthful features.
Best nights sleep of my life.
Im glad to hear that. As he walked around the table to grab the
eggs and milk from the refrigerator he looked in Dominics direction.
Any big plans for the day? Roderick asked, not wanting to just assume
Dominic wanted to stay and hang out with him.
I dont know. Dominic took a big gulp out of the glass Roderick
left on the table. His voice shook when he spoke. Do I?
Dom, baby, I can keep you busy all day and night long. He set
aside the eggs and went to stand in front of Dominic. Roderick caressed
one finger down the left side of Dominics face. So what do you say?
Feel like staying to play for a while?
Depends. A bright blush dotted Dominics cheeks. What did you
have in mind exactly?
Grinning like a wolf, Roderick bent over and took Dominics lips in
a kiss that not only had the ability to curl a mans toes but stiffen his cock
as well. Oh the things Roderick looked forward to doing to his new
lover.
Chapter Eleven

The sun seemed to shine brighter, the sky to be a clearer shade of
bright blue, and the birds sang louder than usual, or at least Dominic
thought they did. Life was good and getting better by the day.
Hed been seeing Roderick for a little over a week now and the more
time that passed, the more helplessly in love with the man he became.
The way Roderick looked at him like he was the only person in the
world made his heart skip a beat. Rodericks honey-colored eyes
seemed to cut right into Dominics soul and made him forget that he still
hadnt remembered the years stolen from his memory. Why did he need
to remember the past when his present and future held so much joy for
him?
With Roderick having to work, there were times they only got to
spend a few hours together, but they made the most of them. Even just
kissing Rodericks full, supple lips was enough to feed Dominics
hunger for the other man. They both couldnt keep their hands off the
other. The moment Roderick would walk through the door or pick him up
from his house, they were on each other in a blink of an eye.
Dominic loved trailing his fingers down Rodericks muscular chest
and running his fingernails under the groove where the muscles on his
lower waist formed a V. The man was built so solid and firm Dominic
could never get enough of touching him. He wanted to commit every line
and hard ridge of muscle to memory just in case Roderick woke up and
saw the light and realized he could do better than a bashed-in head case.
Not that Dominic felt sorry for himself, but he just wished he could
remember some little detail from his past so maybe people wouldnt
look at him like he was broken on the inside.
Everything he had learned so far about Dominic Gabardi didnt seem
to fit with the way he was now. The old Dominic loved to play around
on the computer, read comic books, and had a fascination with numbers.
All those things didnt hold one bit of interest for him now. Staring at a
computer screen gave him a headache and made him sleepy. Anything
more involved than addition and subtraction made him lose interest and
he didnt understand the appeal of a comic book. Brightly colored pages
with bubbles holding the dialog seemed more like a childs choice of
reading material, not something for Dominic. Now give him a science
fiction thriller or murder mystery and that would suck Dominic in for
hours.
Besides those three major things, everyone else had commented on
how different he was, but not that it was a bad thing. The old Dominic
kept to himself more. Aiden had told him theyd only see Dominic if he
had work to do at the Carsten and Sons office. Other than that, Dominic
had lived in an apartment in Silver Creek and rarely visited.
Dominic thought his old life seemed very lonely. He couldnt
imagine not being around Erik, Aiden, Skyler, and Carl. They were his
friends and helped him the most with everyday tasks when he came home
from the hospital. They would sit and talk with Dominic for hours on end
and never seem like they were bored. And Dominic had noticed that they
stopped trying to prod him to remember his old life. The sadness that
would flash across their faces happened less and less. Deep down
Dominic had a feeling that they were starting to realize they liked him
better now than before. Hed never ask them, but he could sense it in the
way theyd smile.
In between spending time with Roderick or hanging out with his
friends, Dominic had been going into work with Shane at the caf.
Summer was coming to a close and their part-time help had to get
prepared for the beginning of a new school year. Dominic wouldnt wish
anything bad on another person but their loss was his gain and he loved
going in to help out.
He started a routine. Dominic would get up in the morning and go for
a walk, but after few days he started to make that a morning run. The
cool morning air fanning across his face helped wake him up and get the
day going. Hed then go inside, shower and change, and ride into Silver
Creek with Shane. Theyd get the caf opened and Dominic had really
taken a liking to helping Margie get the muffins and cakes prepared.
Dominic had been surprised at how much fun he was having.
Dominic usually left the caf around one or two. If Roderick wasnt
busy hed pick him up and drive him home or if Brandon and Erik
werent at the house theyd go there. Theyd make love and lie around
naked and talk about their day. Hed started to notice they talked more
about his day than Rodericks. When hed ask, Roderick would shrug it
off as just another day tracking down criminals. Dominic didnt know a
lot about bounty hunting and thought that Rodericks secrecy about his
job was normal. It sounded like a dangerous profession to be in and
Dominic didnt want to think about his lover being in harms way on a
daily basis.
When they werent wrapped naked around each other, Roderick had
taken on the task of teaching him how to drive. Dominic owned a silver
Honda Accord that sat parked in the Carsten houses garage. The sleek
curves of the car and leather interior, along with the loud sound system,
had Dominic eager to learn how to drive again. He didnt mind being
chauffeured all over the place, but it made him feel like a child at times.
Dominic wanted to have the option to get up and go if he chose to.
Like clockwork Roderick came through the caf door at two oclock.
The bell chimed indicating a customer had just come in but Dominic
didnt bother to look up from where he stood at the counter wrapping up
the cookies he just pulled out of the oven. The strong masculine scent that
belonged to Roderick, soap and aftershave, fluttered under his nose.
At times Dominic thought it was weird he could smell Roderick so
strongly. He assumed it had to be a love thing. Everything Roderick did
stood out amongst everyone else. The sounds he made, the smells that
wafted off his body. And at times, as odd as it may seem, he could feel if
Roderick was happy, mad, or sad, just by the vibration humming off his
body. Dominic didnt know if it was a sixth sense he had always had or
if it came along after his brain injury but either way he enjoyed being this
close to another person.
Hey, babe. Roderick walked around the counter and kissed him on
the cheek. You ready for your driving lesson?
I didnt know you needed a license to ride cock, Shane said as he
passed by.
Dominic nearly dropped the plate of cookies in his hands. Roderick
reached out and saved the dish and the cookies.
Shane! Dominic took the plate from Roderick and sat it back in the
display case. I cant believe you said that.
Oh please. The man flipped over the close sign on the door and
came back to lean over the counter. You opened yourself up for that.
Dominic squinted an eye at Shane and shook his head. Shane huffed out a
loud breath. It was a joke, man. Jeez, take it easy. Dont get your undies
in a twist.
Im not upset but hell, Shane, what if Margie was still here?
Dominic really liked Margie and didnt want her to have a heart attack
from Shanes vulgar comments. Funny as they were, but still a little
embarrassing.
Really? With the way you two look at each other? She might be old
but shes not blind. Shane pointed a finger in their direction. Look at
you now. You guys are always touching each other. Its obvious you two
are fucking.
Dominic didnt have to look. He could feel Rodericks arm wrapped
loosely around his waist, holding him close to his side. The warmth of
his thick fingers bled through Dominics shirt. The sensation had become
so familiar, Dominic didnt notice it anymore. There was no
awkwardness when they touched. For Dominic it would have been weird
if Roderick wasnt touching him every time they were together.
But I still dont need to advertise it. He turned his head to look
around the caf. When did she leave? The afternoon rush seemed to be
busier than usual and now that Dominic thought about it he hadnt seen
her since then.
Her hip was bothering her so she went home early. Her doctor
thinks she should go ahead with the hip replacement surgery sooner
rather than later, Shane muttered. He quickly turned away and busied
himself at the front counter.
Shane had lived in Nehalem for the past two years and Margie had
been the first person who took him in and gave him a job and a place to
live. She was a part of his family. Shane had told him that he had lost his
mother at a young age and Margie helped fill that void. Even though he
didnt remember his own mother, Dominic knew that it had to be hard for
his friend. Margie was getting older and any time a person went in for
surgery, there were risks involved. If anything ever happened to Margie,
Shane wouldnt be the only one heartbroken over the loss.
Margie was a caring woman who gave a person all her attention
when they spoke to her. She always made Dominic feel welcomed, even
after learning he didnt remember a single thing about her. She shrugged
it off saying that it wasnt every day a person got the chance to make a
second first impression. She was a sweet and funny lady that Dominic
had come to care a great deal for.
Dominic looked up at Roderick and his lover gave a nod of his chin
in Shanes direction. He smiled up at Roderick then walked over to
Shane. The man had his back to him so Dominic wrapped his arms
around Shanes chest and rested his chin on his shoulder.
Its going to be okay. He gave Shane a little shake, erupting a laugh
from his friends throat. Shes a tough old bird. Itll take more than that
to take her from us.
Shane placed his hand over Dominics forearm and rubbed his hand
up and down. I know. I still worry but I guess we all do, huh? Shane
looked over his shoulder at him.
Yeah, we do. He kissed Shane on the cheek then went back to
finishing up his close-up duties.
Roderick helped out by mopping the floor in the kitchen area while
Dominic and Shane cleaned up the front area. Twenty minutes later, they
were walking out the door and he waved good-bye to Shane.
All the talk about Margie and her impending surgery had sucked the
air from Dominics sail. He didnt know if he had ever lost someone that
he loved but the thought of losing sweet old Margie caused a pain so
deep inside him, Dominic felt like he couldnt breathe. Death was so
final and it wasnt fair.
Babe, you all right? Roderick asked as he came to his truck and
opened the door for Dominic.
Yeah. He climbed inside. I just hate to think about anything bad
happening to Margie. Shes been so good to me. He remembered how
earlier that day they stood in the back joking while she helped guide him
in preparing the sugar cookie dough then sat there and decorated cookies
with him. She told stories of when she was younger. The woman was a
fountain of information that still had so much to give.
Its hip surgery, not a death sentence. Roderick stated bluntly.
Shed probably kick your guys asses if she knew you were sitting
around just waiting for her to keel over.
Dominic swung his head around to stare at Roderick. Was he being
serious?
Dont look at me like that. Roderick lightly flicked Dominic on the
tip of the nose. When my mom was sick shed always get mad when I
got all doom and gloom on her. Shed ask why I was already planning
her funeral before she even took her last breath. Roderick stared
straight in front of him and Dominic could see the slight tilt of his lips as
he smiled over the memory.
Sounded like she was a wise woman.
She was. Roderick leaned over the console and kissed him on the
lips. Dominic moaned into it and opened wide for the quick stab of
Rodericks tongue in his mouth. He whimpered when Roderick sat back
in his seat. Now stop your moping around and think only good thoughts.
Margie will need it.
It never seemed to amaze Dominic how Roderick always knew the
right thing to say and do to make him feel better. The man was a gift from
heaven dropped in his lap. Dominic didnt know what he did to get so
lucky but hed spend every day making sure Roderick knew how much he
cared for him.
Youre right! he said in a chipper voice.
Im always right. Roderick pulled away from the curb and headed
down the road.
Dominic rolled his eyes. No one likes a smartass.
No but they love a cocky one. Roderick waggled his eyebrows at
him and Dominic started to laugh.
During times like this, Dominic didnt care about what his life had
been like before. This life he had right now was too good to trade for a
billion dollars let alone a glimpse into his past. If it was something
important hed remember it in time, but right now he wanted to enjoy the
ride. See what life had to offer him now.






Chapter Twelve

Roderick drove to the outskirts of town where there were long,
paved country roads that were nearly deserted this time of day. It gave
Dominic plenty of practice on those windy roads without having to deal
with traffic.
Roderick pulled his truck over to the side of the road and Dominic
hopped out without waiting to be told. He loved driving Rodericks
truck. The large piece of machinery made him feel powerful. The drive
was smooth and he was up high enough he didnt panic when another car
passed him going in the opposite direction.
Okay, Dom, head down the road. In about fifteen miles youll come
to Hillsdale Road. Go left and go down about another fifteen miles.
Dominic nodded his understanding, then adjusted the seat and
mirrors. He latched his seatbelt then looked out his window. No
oncoming cars so he pulled out onto the road. The nice, slow hum of the
truck relaxed him.
Clouds had rolled in and it looked like rain. The windows were
down and the wind rushed into the cab of the truck, whirling around his
head. Dominic took a long, hard whiff, nostrils flaring. He could scent
rain in the air.
Off into the distance, a flash of lightning streaked across the sky. The
bright light against the darkening shades of gray looked stunning.
He glanced over to see Roderick with his head laid back on the seat
rest and eyes closed. The hard lines of his jaw seemed tense and the
deep set of wrinkles around his eyes stood out, making him look older
than his twenty-eight years. Even his scent was different. More bitter, not
sweet and sensual like it typically was. Something wasnt right.
Everything okay? he asked. Tough day at work? Dominic still
didnt know what all being a bounty hunter entailed but he knew it
consisted of tracking people down who were evading the law. Seemed
like a stressful job to him but Roderick never shared anything work
related. So if Roderick was feeling the strain of his job he kept it all to
himself and Dominic was sick of it. They were together and he wanted to
know everything about this mans life. The good, bad, and the ugly.
Nah, just tired. Roderick didnt even bother to open his eyes.
Another vague answer.
You know Im here to listen if you want to talk about it.
Ill keep that in mind when I have something to say. Rodericks
tone was emotionless as he spoke. Did he really not think of Dominic as
someone he could confide in? Now keep your eyes on the road and
drive.
Dominic ground his teeth together and squeezed the steering wheel
tightly in his hands. He thought he heard the wheel creak under the
pressure but he didnt care. The turn for Hillsdale Road came into view
and he took the corner doing fifty miles an hour, causing them both to
jerk to the side.
What the fuck, Dom? Roderick shouted.
Oh this is my fault, he grumbled as he continued to drive. You
keeping everything bottled up has nothing to do with this? He looked
over at Roderick.
Dominic pulled over to the side of the road, threw the car into park,
yanked the keys from the ignition and jumped out.
Where are you going? Roderick called out to him.
For a walk to get some space from you! He held the keys so tightly
in his hand the metal prongs dug into his skin. The bite of pain fueled his
already pissed-off mood. The day had been going so great but he
couldnt deny that Roderick seemed to be keeping a part of himself
hidden from Dominic. It wasnt fair.
Seriously? Rodericks fingers wrapped around his bicep and
pulled Dominic around. Are you pouting? Or is this a tantrum?
With strength he didnt know he possessed Dominic spun around and
placed his hands on Rodericks chest and pushed. The man landed on his
ass about ten feet from Dominic. Dominic quickly masked his shock with
an expression of rage. It served Roderick right to be knocked on his butt,
but how did he do it? Roderick outweighed him by a good fifty pounds.
Dominic wanted to hang on to his anger and not be sidetracked by his
surprise strength. He stalked up to where Roderick sat on the ground
staring at him with wide eyes.
I might not remember my phone number, address, or what the hell
my life used to be like. He threw the keys in his hand at Roderick. But
Im a person nonetheless. I dont need you to protect me from anything. If
all I am to you is someone to fuck then Im out. He held up his hands. I
want a man who is willing to share his day with me. I want to know
about your life, Roderick, and that means how your job is going. Its
obviously a big part of your life. Why wont you share that with me?

* * * *

As Roderick stared up at a red faced Dominic, he couldnt believe
his day could get any worse. It had gone to shit the moment he woke up.
A call from council headquarters informed him that a family of wolf
shifters in Maine had been slaughtered. A mother, father, and their three
children. According to the report, there werent enough of the remains to
make a positive ID on who was who. And the cause of death was from
being torn apart. Basically eaten alive by some rabid, enraged wolf.
The violence that people inflicted on each other never ceased to
amaze him. Here Roderick thought it would be hunters disagreeing with
the councils orders to not kill on sight that would be the cause of more
wolf slayings. But no, it was wolf-on-wolf attacks. But why?
That had been the question Roderick had been working on answering
all day. Hed made calls to some of the hunters he trusted to set out and
canvas the area. If a wolf had gone rabid and was killing its own kind,
there was nothing stopping it from going after humans next.
The only bright spot in his day was knowing hed be able to see
Dominic. It wouldnt erase the images he had seen or the knowledge of
what evil walked the Earth but it helped relieve some of the stress.
As Roderick sat on the ground looking up at his wolf shifter mate, the
anger in his eyes pinned him to the ground. Because I love you so
fucking much, I dont want you to think about the horrors that are in the
world. He told him a partial truth. There was no way around it.
Dominic wouldnt let him off the hook without some sort of explanation.
Holy shit! His mind echoed in his empty head. I just said I loved
him. Did Dom hear it, too? Or was I just thinking that in my head?
Ium...I, Roderick stammered as he tried to backtrack what he
just admitted. They needed to stay focused on one issue at a time.
Did you just say you loved me? Dominics eyes lit up for a brief
moment before he glared down at him. Save it. We can discuss that in a
minute, but first I want to know more about the horrors you are keeping
me from. I never asked you to protect me from the bad things that happen
every day. He blew out an annoyed sigh. Fuck, man, look at me. The
bad things out there happened to me, so please dont patronize me. Im
not stupid so please, for the love of god, talk to me.
And tell him what? That seeing the body parts of a family ripped
apart was just another day at the office for him? He had to tell Dom
something, he owed him that much but he had to do it in a way that
wasnt a complete and total lie.
I know youre not stupid, I just dont want you to have to deal with
the shit I see on a daily basis. There are some fucked up people in the
world who do some pretty vicious shit to others.
I can handle it. Dominic sat down in front of him and crossed his
legs underneath him. If this is stuff you have to deal with then I want to
know. I want you to know that Im here for you and I can be your
shoulder to lean on when you need it. Dominic grinned at him. Im
tougher than I look.
I can tell. Roderick rubbed a hand over his chest. Hed probably
have bruising from the force of Doms hands on his chest.
Im sorry about that, Dominic said shyly. He tore his gaze from
Roderick. I just got so frustrated with you treating me like Im not
mature enough to handle what you have to say. Just because my memory
isnt what it used to be doesnt mean Im a complete moron.
I never thought that. Roderick held out his hand for Dominics. He
clasped the thin, warm fingers in his grip. I dont want you having to
live with the images Ive seen burned into your mind. Its not pretty stuff,
Dom.
I get that but I dont want you to have to shoulder the burden on your
own. Dominic squeezed Rodericks fingers. I know Im a little rusty
but isnt that what people who are in a relationship do? Share things with
one another. I could be wrong though.
The look on Dominics face told him there was no getting out of this.
Roderick could give him pieces of the truth.
Okay, dont say I didnt warn you. Dominic used his other hand to
wave him on. The current assignment Im working on now is to track
down the people responsible for killing a family in Maine. A mother,
father and their three young children. He paused to let the information
sit in and give Dom the chance to tell him to stop.
A family? Dominic asked and Roderick nodded. Why?
Im not sure. He shrugged. But its my job to find out why and
bring them to justice. And he would. The council would stop at nothing
to prevent these brutal killings. Roderick just hoped it was an isolated
incident because if not they had bigger problems on the horizon.
Thats awful, Dominic said after a few minutes of being silent.
See. Roderick tugged on Dominics hand until he was able to pull
the man into his lap. Dominics long legs straddled his hips. Roderick
dipped his head down to meet Doms eyes. That is exactly why I didnt
want to tell you any of that.
I know but me not knowing doesn't change the fact that you still have
to handle all that on your own. Dominic brought his hand up to brush the
hair out of his face exposing his bright blue eyes. No matter what, I
always want you to come to me. Sometimes talking about it helps.
Dominic gave him a small smile. It will make your soul feel lighter.
Ill have to remember that, Roderick said in a low voice as he
neared Dominics lips.
Oh no you dont. Dominic brought his hand up to cover Rodericks
mouth. Im glad we got that settled but we still have one more thing to
talk about. He nipped at Doms finger as it tapped him on his lips.
Whats that? he teased, knowing damn good and well what
Dominic wanted to discuss. For the first time wanting to say I love you
to another person didnt frighten him. If anything it felt fucking good.
That you love me. Dominic prompted. Remember?
Hmm. Roderick leaned back on his hands and closed one eye as he
looked up at the darkened sky. I dont recall. Are you sure thats what I
said? He asked, but couldnt hide the smile tugging at his upper lip.
You jerk. Dominic tickled along Rodericks ribcage and he started
to squirm.
Okay, I give. He fell backwards to lie on his back. Yes, I love
you more than I thought possible.
Dominic hovered above him, hands braced on either side of
Rodericks face. Thats very flattering. Dominic nodded his head and
sat up. You do understand Ill need time to think on this.
Roderick narrowed his eyes and stared up at Dominic. The man
looked so serious but he saw a slight twitch on the upper right corner of
his mouth. Roderick bucked his hips up and rolled Dominic underneath
him. He used his knee to push Doms legs apart to make room for his
body to lie snug against his.
Was that supposed to be funny? Being so close to Dominic and
feeling the heat from his body had Rodericks cock growing to full
hardness. He rolled his hips against Dominics, the mans mouth fell
open, and a low moan passed his lips. Because I dont see the humor in
it.
Dominic writhed under him, arching his back to raise his hips up to
get more friction from Roderick. The hard shaft in his lovers pants made
his skin crawl with desire.
Just as Dominic reached for him, Roderick pulled back. Dominics
lip stuck out in a pout. I was only teasing you. He reached for
Roderick again but he evaded his hands.
Im not sure I believe you. Roderick made a clicking sound with
his tongue. Typically when a person tells another person they love
them, they tend to say it back. Im pretty sure its proper etiquette or
some shit.
Oh really? Dominic lay back on the ground and put his arms
behind his head.
Really. Roderick moved to settle closer to Dominic until their
chests touched. Plus leaving a guy hanging like that is worse than a case
of blue balls. His heart pounded in his chest waiting to hear Dominic
say those three words. He hoped Dominic felt the same way because if
he didnt Roderick didnt know what hed do.
Roderick, Roderick, Roderick, Dominic said after what felt like
forever. His eyes were glinting with mischief. As much as I love your
balls, and I do, I love you ten times more than that, and if your balls fell
off Id still love you.
Roderick released the breath hed been holding and collapsed on top
of Dominic, bringing his lips down hard for a bruising kiss. He had an
overwhelming desire to mark him. The whole world needed to know that
Dominic belonged to him. God, he loved this.
Babe. Roderick eased back. Lets not talk about our cocks and
balls falling off. He cringed internally at the thought. He gave himself a
good shake.
Whatever you say, my love. Dominics fingers massaged at the
muscle on the back of his neck and Roderick went in for a deeper kiss.
Even as close as they were, Roderick wanted to be closer still. His
love for Dominic seemed to make everything seem brighter, more
attainable, with this man by his side or underneath him wiggling with
desire. Roderick would never tire of this feeling.
Chapter Thirteen

Dominic let his tongue dance alongside Rodericks, sucking in the
minty taste of his mouth. It moved slow and sensuous to the point
Dominic found himself clawing at Rodericks shoulders. He had to get
his hands and mouth on every part of this mans luscious body.
What are you doing? Roderick asked, a smile dancing across his
lips as Dominic pushed him to his side.
I have a strong desire to taste you. He ran a finger down the front
of Roderick chest, causing the man to moan as he rolled to his back, eyes
clenched tight. Dominic trailed his finger all the way down until his hand
palmed at Rodericks generous bulge. I want this in my mouth.
Who am I to deny you that? Roderick said as another loud moan
erupted from his throat.
Dominic went to work on his lovers zipper, pulling and tugging until
he had Rodericks pants peeled down to his thighs.
His breath got caught in his throat at the sight of Rodericks tan
lower abdomen, the muscles so taut his veins pushed against the surface.
His mouth filled with drool at the view of Rodericks thick and heavy
shaft with the bright red crown. A small drip of desire seeped out the
slit. Dominic couldnt resist. He fell forward and licked the rounded tip
like a lollipop, taking in the salty flavor.
Fuck, Dom, Roderick growled. His fingers tunneled through
Dominics hair, urging him lower on his thick pole.
Dominic relaxed his jaw and eased the tip further down his throat.
His tongued the underside of the veiny cock as Roderick slid deeper.
Dominic pulled up and swirled his tongue around the ridge of the crown,
coating Rodericks dick in his saliva.
Once the pulsing flesh was slippery enough, Dominic swallowed him
down to the root. His chin nudged up against Rodericks balls and his
nose was buried in the finely trimmed thatch of hair surrounding his
base. Dominic rubbed his face from side to side as he worked his throat
on Rodericks dick. The dual sensations had his strong, handsome lover
purring like a kitten.
Thats it, baby, Roderick whimpered. Take it all.
It was a request Dominic was happy to oblige. He bobbed his head
up and down, savoring the constant flow of pre-cum oozing out the tip.
His own desires worked to a fever pitch and he needed to give a
little attention to his throbbing cock. While his mouth worked Rodericks
shaft he used one hand to massage the rounded stones in his sac. Dominic
used his free hand to unfasten his shorts and pull his cock free.
He moaned around the mushroom head at the first touch of his hand
on his hot flesh. The need for release sat right on the tip of his cock. He
started to suck Roderick faster as his hand pumped with fierce motion.
Yeah, right there. Rodericks hips bucked up off the ground. Just
like that, baby.
Dominic relaxed his throat to take the brutal pounding Roderick gave
him. He could feel the shaft widening in his mouth and hollowed out his
cheeks for ample suction.
Oh, fuck! Roderick shouted. Here it comes.
Dominic pulled back to catch the gooey load on his tongue. A few
seconds later the hot, bitter cream filled his mouth and he guzzled it
down like a man dehydrated. The thickness coated his throat all the way
down to his stomach, filling him with warmth.
The little whimpering sounds Roderick made as he sucked him dry
and the heavy load in his mouth, pushed him over the edge. His cum
flowed from the tip, spraying the ground beneath him. His mouth went
slack as he succumbed to his own release.
After the jittery shock left his body, Dominic licked Rodericks cock
clean and sat up. He was breathless as if he just ran a marathon.
Roderick had one hand behind his neck supporting his head and one
hand resting on his belly. His eyes were only halfway open. A look of
utter contentment hung on his face. It was a look that suited him. His
cheeks were flushed pink, sweat dotted his brow, and his hard body
looked relaxed and lazy as he lay there.
That was amazing. He held a hand out for Dominic to take.
Dominic let Roderick pull him on top of him and he kissed his lover,
sharing the flavor Rodericks seed left in his mouth. Roderick sucked on
his tongue as if he couldnt get enough.
Thunder cracked in the distance and Dominic eased away to look up
at the graying sky. Rain would be upon them before too long.
We better get going before we get wet, Dominic said as he went to
his knees then stood up. He tucked his softening dick back into his shorts.
I rather like it when youre all wet, baby. Roderick came to his
feet and pulled Dominic to his chest.
Rodericks pants were still down past his ass and his naked cock
rubbed over Dominics. The semi-erect shaft nudged at his, threatening it
to stand up for another round.
Whats that word people say when a person cant get enough of
something? Dominic tilted his head back as Roderick kissed down his
neck.
Insatiable. Rodericks lips tickled his neck when he spoke.
Yeah, he said on a sigh. Thats what you are. Dominic held
Rodericks head close to his neck eager to feel more of the little bites he
peppered along his skin.
Another crackle of thunder ripped through the afternoon sky. As the
sound receded, the distinct sound of a wolf howling rang low and
directly in his ears. Dominics fingers fell slack and dropped to
Rodericks shoulders. He looked in the direction of the surrounding
trees, curious if hed see the large brown wolf and the little black one.
Whats the matter? Roderick took a step back and followed the
path Dominics eyes had taken. Did you see something?
No but Dominic chewed on the inside of his cheek. It felt stupid
to mention that he thought he saw two wolves from his bedroom
window. So what if he did? He lived out in the country for goodness
sake. It shouldnt bother him so much that he saw them, but it was more
than that. There was something about those wolves that struck him as
familiar but he couldnt figure out why.
But what? Roderick prompted him.
Its stupid really. Dominic tore his eyes from the trees to look at
Roderick.
Baby. Roderick took a step toward him, resting his hands on
Dominics hips. Tell me whats going on in that gorgeous head of
yours.
Fine, but you cant call me crazy once I tell you. Okay? Roderick
nodded his head. A few nights ago I got up to go to the bathroom and
when I came back, I stopped to look out the window. Nothing unusual.
You know how much I love the outdoors.
Go on. Rodericks eyes stared intently into his.
Its probably nothing, but I saw two wolves sitting outside staring
up at the moon. One was quite large, and a smaller one. Dominic
looked over Rodericks shoulder as if seeing the two animals right in
front of him. They looked so beautiful. The little one snuggled up close
to the bigger one. The way they interacted almost reminded me of a
mother and child.
The memory was still fresh in his mind. The glossy shine of their fur
and the way they sat so contently together. Maybe he used to be an
animal activist or something. Why else would he care so much or
remember in such vivid detail these two wolves?
Did you see anything else? Roderick grumbled as if he were
angered by what Dominic had said.
No. He looked at the man he loved. Should there be? I mean hell,
Roderick, it was two freaking wolves. Nothing special. The sight of
them just stuck with me is all.
Im sorry, babe. Roderick smiled and Dominic could clearly see
that it was forced upon his handsome face. Lets get out of here before
the rain comes.
Dominic let Roderick lead him back to the truck. Like always,
Roderick opened the passenger door for him to climb inside. The sweet
gesture always melted his heart and soon enough he wasnt upset over
Rodericks odd reaction to his mentioning of seeing wolves in the
Carstens backyard.
Chapter Fourteen

Dominic didnt say anything else about the wolves he saw on the
Carsten property and that was probably for the best. From the
description he gave, Roderick knew exactly who it was and once he got
Dominic dropped off at home he was going to speak to Devon about it.
It pissed him off to think that Skyler would be so careless as to go
running around in wolf form with his son knowing there would be a
chance that Dominic could catch them. Granted Roderick didnt think that
was their intention but still. Roderick had been given the task of
watching over Dominic and he didnt need anything causing him any
unneeded stress.
Roderick had already lost his heart to Dominic and he didnt want to
take any chances of losing him. The thought of Dominic cracking under
the pressure and hurting an innocent person would be devastating to him.
Roderick knew what would need to be done if Dominic lost his ability to
control his wolf and the thought of that kept him up at night.
Home sweet home, Dominic said as they pulled up the long drive
leading to the Carsten house.
Hed been so consumed with his thoughts that the journey home went
by in a flash. Roderick wasnt ready to say good-bye to Dominic just yet,
but he had work that needed to be done and one alpha to talk to.
I know youre busy so you dont have to walk me to the door.
Dominic leaned over and kissed his cheek then turned to exit the truck.
Hey, wait a minute. Roderick flung open the door and jumped out
of the truck. He met Dominic around the front. Im never too busy to see
the man I love to the door. He grinned, doing his best to erase any signs
of worry from his face. My mama would roll over in her grave if she
thought I wasnt using the manners she instilled in me.
Fine, you can walk me to the door. Dominic rolled his eyes and
did his best to sound annoyed but Roderick saw the ghost of a smile on
his face. But thats it. I know that you are busy with work stuff so no
hanky-panky. Got me, mister?
Yes, sir, he leaned forward and whispered in Dominics ear. He
felt the man tremble.
Shit, you were right. Dominics eyelids lay half-hooded and he had
a lazy grin on his lips. It is hot being called sir.
Roderick tickled Dominic right under his armpits and the man
squealed in laughter. Lets not forget who the master is here. He
tugged Dominic by the hand until he stood flush to Rodericks chest. He
lowered his hands to grip at Dominics ass.
Master? Dominic cocked an eyebrow at him. That seems rather
kinky, sir, he said in a teasing tone and licked his lips lavishly.
You have no idea how kinky I can be. He moved forward to take
Dominic in a rough kiss to demonstrate just how dirty he intended on
getting with him but the front door banged open.
Sorry to interrupt, Aiden said, and he had the decency to look
embarrassed. But I wanted to catch you before you left, Roderick.
Dominic buried his head in Rodericks chest, doing his best to
smother his laughter at being caught by Aiden. Roderick kissed the top of
his head and raised his hands up from Doms ass to wrap around his
waist. He then looked up at Aiden. Not a problem. I was hoping to
speak to Devon before I left anyways. What did you need, Aid?
Its your lucky day. Hes down at the office. Aiden tilted his head
in the direction of the Carsten and Sons office down the hill from the
house. But on to what I wanted to ask you. We are throwing a surprise
party for Carson tomorrow night and wanted to see if you would like to
come.
I thought you said Carsons birthday was in two weeks? Dominic
turned in Rodericks embrace to look at Aiden.
It is but ever since we threw Erik a surprise party the little booger
has been busting balls to have one of his own. Plus, Noah and Skyler are
taking Carson on vacation so he wont be here on his birthday. He
clapped his hands together. Hell be so surprised and hell get to
celebrate his birthday twice.
You all spoil him way too much. Roderick pointed a finger at
Aiden.
So? Hes the only kid around here. With Erik all grown up and
moved out all we have left is Carson to spoil rotten.
Roderick remembered hearing stories about Erik before he met him
and it seemed all that extra attention made him a pain in the ass. But he
had high hopes for Carson. Even he liked being around the little boy.
Carson still had that glow of excitement in his eyes. The future held so
much promise for him and he didnt know the evils of the world just yet.
To be nave to the harsh reality that lay out before him was a godsend to
a child.
So what do you say? Aiden asked as he bounced up and down on
the balls of his feet. You coming?
Hey! Dominic pulled free from Rodericks embrace and walked
up the porch steps. Were you going to ask me?
Sweetie, you live here. Aiden patted Dominic on the back. And
youre family. Its a given you will be here. Its corralling your
boyfriend to get here on time that is the question.
Oh. Dominics smile was so wide it met his eyes. Thanks!
Well since you pointed out that my boyfriend will be here then
count me in. Roderick shrugged. And I wouldnt mind seeing Carson.
That little guy is pretty awesome.
Yes he is. Now be here tomorrow by six. Aiden informed him.
Once Aiden was inside, Roderick walked up the remaining steps and
gave Dominic a long and hard kiss. When he pulled away, Dominic
gasped for breath and a vibrant red stained his cheeks.
I love you. His voice sounded grave and strained to his own ears
but this man had the ability to pull all kinds of emotions from his body
and soul.
Love you, too. Dominic nuzzled his nose against Rodericks cheek.
See you tomorrow night. As Roderick turned to leave, Dominic
swatted him on the ass. Hey! He jerked around, covering his bottom
from another slap.
Sorry. I couldnt resist. Dominic giggled. See ya tomorrow.
Roderick chuckled to himself as he made his way down the hill. A
bright light lit up the office and he could see Devon sitting behind his
desk. Roderick walked up to the door, knocked once then walked inside.
Devon, Roderick called out as he shut the door behind him.
In here.
Roderick went straight to Devons office and sat down in the chair
right in front of the mans desk.
Whats going on, man? Devon shut down his computer as he
waited for Rodericks reply. Everything okay with Dom?
Everything is great. He crossed his left leg over his right, resting
the ankle on his knee.
I can sense a but coming. Devon looked up at him.
Dom is doing fine. He hasnt remembered anything about his past or
that hes a wolf shifter.
Okay, so whats up then? You wouldnt be here if everything was
fine.
Roderick respected Devon and admired his honesty and ability to be
up front. There was no beating around the bush with this guy.
You need to tell the pack to be more careful. The other night
Dominic saw two wolves in your backyard.
Oh shit, Devon mumbled. He rubbed a hand over his eyes then
pinched the bridge of his nose. Who was it?
From the description Im going to say it was Skyler and Carson.
He laughed at how Dom had described them.
Whats so funny? Devon pulled his hand away from his face and
narrowed his eyes at Roderick.
He said it looked like a mother and child. Now Roderick couldnt
contain his laughter.
Fuck me. Devon leaned forward and his head thumped on the desk.
Roderick could hear the other man laughing. Devon looked up. Skyler
would be so offended being mistaken for a woman.
I know, right?
Devon met Rodericks eyes and they both started laughing harder.
Skyler liked to prance around and at times came off more feminine then
manly. Everyone loved Skyler just the way he was but he had his
moments of being a complete and utter diva.
Seriously though, is Dom okay with what he saw? Devon asked
when his laughter died down. Did he suspect anything?
No, hes fine. But I could tell by the look in his eyes that on some
level he recognized them. Not them them, like who it was, just that they
werent ordinary wolves. His eyes got a faraway look in them almost as
if he envied the wolves. Dominic loved being outside and if he
remembered why he felt that way, he might come to terms with the
situation quicker, but Roderick wasnt in a rush to fill in the blanks for
Dom. Roderick was so happy and in love, and he didnt want anything to
disturb his happy little world hed created with Dom.
Thats a good thing though, Devon said with all sincerity. Small
steps.
I agree. Its just Roderick ran his hand over his head searching
for the right thing to say. He didnt want to keep the truth from Dominic.
He just didnt want to lose him either.
Youre afraid of what will happen once he remembers. Devon
finished his thought for him.
Yeah.
Im not going to lie and say I know what youre going through
because this is uncharted territory for all of us but you have to be strong.
Youre his mate and claiming you might be the only thing that grounds
him.
Roderick reached his hand up and laid it over the bite mark on his
shoulder. It had already healed but left behind a scar. What if by letting
Dominic bite him, hed taken away the one thing that could actually help
him once the truth came out?
His fingers curled into the collar of his shirt and he yanked it down,
exposing the scar. What do we do if hes already done that?
Devons eyes went as wide as baseballs. He looked from the mark
then back to Rodericks eyes then did it all over again. After a few
moments of open-mouth gaping like a fish out of water Devon said, We
hope that the love he feels for you is enough to calm him down when the
time comes.
It all boiled down to love. An emotion that Roderick didnt even
believe in until a few days ago. Now he had to stake his whole life on it.
He loved Dominic more than he had ever loved another person, not
counting his parents. But would it be enough? Roderick had thought
about it many times and if someone told him he could turn into a fucking
dog hed either, one, think they were crazy, or two, go freaking berserk
when he turned into a furry creature that stood on all fours.
The look on his face must have sent a warning to Devon. The man got
up from his desk and moved to stand in front of him. Do you love him?
Of course I do! Roderick said more loudly then he intended. What
does that have to do with anything?
Everything, Roderick. Lets say he goes feral once he discovers the
truth. He pointed a finger at Roderick. You might be the only thing to
bring him back. All this amnesia shit is new to all of us and everyone
Ive asked about it said there are no known cases of this ever happening
before. But we all agree on one thing and that is it will be a major shock
for Dominic when he does find out.
Thats not very comforting. Roderick sat up and rested his elbows
on his knees. He wished there was an easy fix to all this but there just
wasnt.
Roderick, Devon said sympathetically. God only gives us what
we can handle and this is just one of those times you have to have faith
and believe it will all work out.
Roderick stopped believing in god when he put his mother in the
ground but now he had to make amends. If it took getting down on his
knees every night and praying, hed do it. He couldnt lose Dominic.
Hope youre right, Devon. Roderick stood up.
Me, too. Devon patted him on the back as he walked Roderick to
the door.
Just please talk to the guys. Roderick turned to face Devon. Tell
them for the time being just dont shift while on your property. Im sure
Noah wouldnt mind letting the pack use his land. I dont want to chance
Dominic seeing anything else that might spook him.
I totally agree. Ill call Noah tonight.
Roderick nodded his head and started up the hill.
Hey, Roderick! Devon hollered to him. Remember that old
saying, love conquers all?
He did and Roderick chuckled to himself. Yeah.
Just remember that. Devon gave him a salute. See you tomorrow
night.
Roderick walked up the hill smiling to himself. If being in love could
make a big guy like Devon quote poetry and believe in god, then love
had to be one very powerful emotion and Roderick welcomed everything
that came with it. For Dominic, there wasnt anything he wouldnt do.
Chapter Fifteen

By the time Roderick arrived for the birthday party Dominic only had
enough time to kiss him on the cheek and get back to work. Aiden had
everyone pitching in to fill balloons and hang streamers outside for the
big event. Dominic had come inside to grab more tape when he saw
Roderick coming through the front door carrying the birthday cake
Margie had made for Carson. Margie was supposed to come but at the
last minute called to cancel. She wasnt feeling well and didnt want to
spread any of her germs. Luckily Roderick had been able to stop by and
pick the cake up on the way to the Carsten house.
After depositing the cake on the kitchen counter Roderick followed
Dominic outside and lent a hand getting everything set up.
The back deck was alight with royal blue and neon green balloons.
Carsons favorite colors. The streamers were in the same shade and
Aiden had Viktor and Devon twisting them together to wrap around the
deck railing. The two brothers looked rather flustered as every time they
pulled on the thin, rippled paper, it tore.
Carl stood at the grill flipping hamburgers and hot dogs. Chips and
dip sat on one table with potato salad and some sort of macaroni salad.
An ice chest filled with soda and beer sat underneath the table. It was a
good old-fashioned cookout that Carson would love.
As Dominic looked around the backyard, he wondered what his
seventh birthday was like. Did he have a party? Or did he just spend it
with family? The more time that passed, Dominic didnt think hed find
out. His memory still hadnt come back but it didnt bother him as much
anymore. Life was beyond good. He developed a routine, going to the
caf to help out, spending time with the Carsten family and all the
extended family members, and spending time with Roderick. He couldnt
fathom that his old life could compare to this one.
Hey, Dom, help me hang this sign. Shane waved him over.
Dominic pulled one of the lawn chairs over to stand on but he wasnt
getting high enough to reach the top of the overhang.
Can you get it? Shane asked.
Hang on. Dominic stepped out of the chair and up onto the railing.
He glanced down and saw that the drop off was four feet and his legs got
a little wobbly. He didnt think he was afraid of heights and it wasnt
that far from the ground but it would hurt like hell if he did fall.
Are sure you should be doing that? Shane asked. You look a little
shaky up there.
Just hand me the tape. Dominic held one end up against the side of
the house and reached out for the tap. Once he had a few strips stuck to
his fingers he reached for the corner. He was still too short so he went
up on his tiptoes and stuck down the side of the happy birthday banner.
Just then, a bee buzzed his head and Dominic swatted it away. He
lost his balanced and started to tip backwards. He reached out for the
side of the house but his fingertips grabbed nothing but air.
I should have known this would happen, Dominic said to himself as
he toppled over the edge to land on the very hard ground. His head flung
back, snapping against the unforgiving surface, and he saw stars flashing
in his vision.
Dominic! He could hear Roderick shouting as he and the others ran
to his rescue. Dont move. Roderick ordered when he tried to sit up.
Roderick knelt in front of him and felt around his head. What hurts the
most?
Dominic reached up and rubbed at the back of his head. The spot
where his scar lay felt very tender but other than that, the only other thing
that hurt was his pride and maybe his ass.
As Roderick helped him into a seated position, he noticed everyone
staring at him. Their eyes were wide as if waiting for some big reveal.
He just fell on his butt, nothing major.
Do you remember anything? Viktor asked.
He looked at the tall blond and tilted his head from side to side
trying to shake something loose but still nothing. No, still empty. He
grinned around at the small crowd that had formed around him. Were
you all hoping that by conking myself on the head Id remember
everything that I had forgotten?
Well, sure. Erik shrugged. It happens in the movies all the time.
You dork. Viktor lightly slapped his little brother on the back of
the head. This is real life. If anything, he probably did more damage.
Maybe we should take him to the hospital to make sure he doesnt have a
brain bleed or some shit.
Hes right. Roderick helped him to his feet and cupped the sides of
Dominics cheeks with both hands. I dont want to take any chances.
Babe, Im fine. He wrapped his fingers around Rodericks wrist
and reluctantly pulled Rodericks hands from his head. If I start to feel
sick, Ill tell you. Promise, but right now we have a little boy on his way
here for a super-duper surprise party. And I for one cant wait to see the
look on his little face.
Roderick gave him an assessing glare before nodding his head.
Okay, but if you start to feel bad and dont tell me, Im going to spank
that tight little ass of yours, he whispered low for only Dominic to hear.
That sounds like it could be fun. Erik chuckled as he walked away.
Dominic looked after the young man and couldnt believe he had
heard what Roderick had said. He could barely hear it and it was said
into his ear.
Come on, lets finish up. Aiden clapped his hands together, trying
his best to get everyone moving again. Theyll be here any minute.
They finished and sat around the deck whispering to one another.
Skyler was supposed to text Aiden when they got close. The sounds of
car doors shutting had everyone preparing to scream happy birthday but
it wasnt Carson that came around the corner.
False alarm, Erik said as he took his seat.
Im sorry guys, Casper, Carls younger brother, said as he walked
up the steps and sat next his brother. His boyfriend Phillip, who also
happened to be Aidens father, walked over to talk to Devon and Aiden.
Dominic hadnt spent too much time with Casper or Phillip since
they lived full-time in Silver Creek. A few of the others at the party lived
there, too, and it was harder for Dominic to remember them since he
didnt see them on a regular basis. But they all were very nice to him.
Always polite, asking how he was doing, and never pressuring him to
remember them. Dominic guessed that he mustnt have known them that
well before the accident.
Finally, after what felt like a lifetime, Skyler texted that they were on
their way. Everyone wore eager smiles waiting to surprise the birthday
boy. Dominic was one of them. Carson was always sweet to him and at
times when he felt lonely and was losing hope that hed never remember
a single thing, Carson would come over and ask him to play catch or go
for a walk. It was as if the little boy knew exactly what to do to take his
mind off of his troubles.
The sound of doors slamming and giggling had everyone on alert.
Dominic squatted down next to Roderick and peeked up over the table.
The talking grew louder as Noah, Skyler, Carson, and Carsons uncle,
Holden, made their way around the back of the house.
Where is everyone? Carson asked.
Surprise! Everyone shouted in unison and leaped up from their
hiding spots.
The first reaction on Carsons young face was fear from being scared
by twenty shouting men then a large bright smile lit up his little face. He
turned and hugged both his dads and uncle.
This is awesome. Carson danced around and slapped at a few of
the balloons tied around the railing. I knew you guys would throw me a
surprise party.
Once all the hellos were given to the birthday boy, Aiden directed a
line to start at the food table. Shane stood in front of Dominic and
Roderick at his back. He could feel the warm press of Rodericks body
as he stepped closer to him. Dominic leaned back just a little to get a
better touch.
Dom, over here! Carson pointed to a chair beside him at the table.
Come sit by me.
Do you mind? He looked over at Roderick to see if he would be
bothered by it.
Of course not. Roderick kissed him softly on the lips. Go have fun
and Ill be over here if you need me. He pointed to the table that Phillip
and Devon sat at.
Happy birthday, Mister Carson, Dominic said as he pulled out a
chair and sat down between Carson and Erik. Were you totally
surprised or what?
Very. Carson took a bite of his hot dog then sat it down. I mean,
my birthday is still two weeks away, he said matter-of-factly. So yeah
I cant believe it! This is awesome.
Dominic sat and listened to the little boy go on and on about this and
that. His dads had a trip planned to go to Disneyland in a week and a
half. Hed be able to celebrate his actual birth date there. It sounded like
a lot of fun and Dominic couldnt help but think the little guy deserved it.
He might not remember or know a lot of things, but Dominic did know
children needed to be loved and taken care of. From what he had seen so
far, Noah and Skyler went above and beyond for their son.
Personally I think the trip to the greatest place on Earth is because
Skyler wants to have lunch with Cinderella, Shane said with a wink.
You know it. Skyler covered Carsons ears with his hands. Im so
going to steal that bitchs tiara.
Dominic had just taken a bite of his hamburger and started to choke
on the meat in his mouth. Shane jumped up and started to pound him on
the back. Breathe, Skyler ordered. We all know you can breathe with
your mouth stuffed full of meat.
Shane! Skyler said in a chastising voice. Language. He motioned
with his eyes down at his son.
Dominic swallowed down the bite in his mouth and started to laugh
so hard he couldnt breathe. The others joined in, even Carson, who
didnt even know what he was laughing about.
And it would appear you can swallow like a pro, Erik quipped,
followed by another roar of laughter from their table.
The night went off without a hitch. As the sun fell in the sky the stars
took their place by lighting up the night. Aiden brought out the cake and
Carson blew out the candles. Dominic was having a great time with his
friends. All the laughing and joking made him feel like he belonged.
After Carson opened all his presents, Dominic snuck off to sit by
Roderick. Roderick was talking quietly with Phillip.
Hey, baby. Roderick put his arm around Dominics shoulders.
Hello there, Dominic. Phillip held out his hand for him to shake.
Ill call you later on that issue, Roderick. Phillip stood up. Im going
to go and find Casper and see what hes up to.
I didnt mean to interrupt anything. Dominic cuddled in close to
Rodericks side. The scent of his aftershave tickled his nose and he had
a strong desire to lick if off his lovers neck.
Oh you didnt. Roderick shifted on the bench and wrapped his arm
around Dominics chest, hugging him close. So hows your head
feeling?
Dominic had almost forgotten all about that. Fine.
Still, I think its for the best that I stay with you tonight just to make
sure you really are all right. Roderick wiggled his eyebrows up and
down. What do ya say? Can I stay, baby? Rodericks voice rumbled
against his ear where he nuzzled close and sucked at his earlobe.
Do you even have to ask? A small moaned slipped past his lips
before he could rein it back in. His body instantly reacted to Rodericks
soft kisses and touches. If he wasnt careful, hed come in his shorts and
really embarrass himself.
Roderick lightly started to kiss down the side of Dominics neck and
gently bit down on the area of flesh right where his shoulder and neck
connected. A warm, numbing feeling began to spread from his balls
outward. Dominic sat up and gripped Roderick by the chin. He was just
about to suggest they go inside when the loudest, most pain-filled howl
came from the woods at the back of the house.
What was that? someone shouted.
Roderick stood up and walked to the very edge of the deck. Dominic
followed right behind him, a little afraid of what was happening.
Another howl followed by a few sharp barks sounded out next. Roderick
shoved Dominic further behind him.
Devon, Viktor, Phillip, and Noah came to stand beside Roderick.
The rustling in the bushes grew louder. Sweat prickled over his skin and
Dominic was terrified of what hed see break through the trees.
A very large wolf came crashing through the trees, scattering leaves
everywhere. The beast looked to be massive, surely not a common wolf.
The animals fur was a bight blond with brown streaks swirling around
its body.
Blood rushed through his ears and Dominic couldnt hear anything
other than the constant flow of blood as his mind tried to comprehend
what it was seeing.
The wolf stumbled forward a few more steps than fell to the ground
halfway up the backyard. Dominic stood there gawking as a shimmering
light surrounded the animal. Grotesque sounds of popping and crunching
wrenched through the shocked silence. He thought he was going to be
sick. Then the light started to fade and a naked man lay unconscious on
the ground.
Oh my god. Holden pushed by him and ran toward the man. Seth!
he shouted.
Carls boyfriend, Jake, jumped over the side of the deck, landing
gracefully on his feet and took off after Holden. Roderick, Noah, Phillip,
and Devon followed quickly behind Jake.
Dominic stood there watching in shock as everyone went toward the
thing that just turned from a wolf into a person. Were they crazy?
Carson zipped passed him and out of fear for the little boy, Dominic
chased after him. He reached up and caught Carson by the back of the
shirt, stopping him from going any further.
Carson, stay back. Dominic bent at the waist gasping for breath.
He glanced over at the naked man. We dont know what that is.
Dominic. Carsons brow pinched together in what Dominic thought
was confusion, then he gave him a sympathetic smile. He placed one of
his small hands on Dominics cheeks. Its okay. Hes one of us.
With that, Carson let go of him and ran toward the others. Dominic
stood there staring in disbelief. Hes one of us. What did that mean?
He looked at the scene in front of him and it felt like the world had
started to spin. Dominic touched a hand to his head trying to stop the
sickening twirling sensation rolling through his body. A vision of
Roderick wavered in front of his eyes and he could faintly hear him call
out his name but Dominic couldnt respond.
His vision grew fuzzy and his body too heavy for him to hold up. A
sharp pain struck him in the shoulder then another in his hip causing him
double over. He fell to his hand and knees gasping for air. Dominic
curled his fingers into the dirt under his hands. Searing pain rippled
down his spine. He had his eyes clenched tight unaware of his
surroundings. The agony was too much.
Somebody, please help me!
Chapter Sixteen

What the fuck is wrong with him? Roderick shouted as he knelt
down next to the naked man.
Hes bleeding from his right side. Phillip prodded at the area with
his fingers. Looks like hes been attacked.
Seth. Holden shook gently at his friends shoulder but the man
didnt move. Is he going to be all right? Panic had Holdens voice
wavering as he spoke.
Im not sure. Lets get him inside. Phillip helped hoist the man up
off the ground.
Devon stepped forward and carried Seth back toward the house.
Roderick stood up and turned around. Dominic stood a few feet
behind him. His face as white as snow and his eyes unblinking, staring
straight ahead of him. A slight tremble quaked over the mans body.
Dominic, he said softly as he started toward him. Dominic didnt
say anything, didnt even flinch at the sound of Rodericks voice. Dom,
can you hear me?
Something snapped in Dominics eyes. A visible tremor shook his
body and Dominic cried out. He blindly grabbed his shoulder then bent
at the waist, gasping for air. Roderick watched as Dominic fell to his
knees and started to shift.
Oh god, no! Roderick shouted.
Dominics body contorted in an unnatural away. His face scrunched
up in a look of intense pain.
A soft, glowing light shimmered around Dominics body then right
before his very eyes Roderick watched as Dominics body went from
that of a humans to that of a wolf. The pain must have been too much
because by the time the shift was complete Dominic lay passed out on
the ground in wolf form.
Roderick walked over and knelt by Dominic. The large brindled-
colored wolf lay on its side breathing rapidly. He reached out a hand and
caressed his fingers down the soft fur on Dominics side. Dominics
pulse beat so fast Roderick could feel every thump of his heartbeat as his
blood coursed through his body.
Roderick! He heard Viktor shout his name. The sound of heavy
footfalls shook the ground as the other man grew near. Fucking Christ.
He shifted.
No words came to mind and no sound left Rodericks lips as he sat
there staring at Dominics beautiful form. A nod of the head was all he
could offer Viktor in a way of response. He feared if he opened his
mouth hed lose control of his emotions and cry like a baby.
What happens now? Viktor asked as he squatted down next to
Roderick.
I dont know. He shook his head. Suddenly the idea of keeping this
part of Dominics life from him seemed like an astronomically bad idea.
Roderick like everyone else feared if they had told Dominic the truth
up front about what he truly was he wouldnt have believed them.
Dominic was already dealing with getting his memory back on the
everyday stuff that had been stolen from him. The knowledge that he was
a shifter was important but Dominic had been dealing with enough stress
no one wanted to add anymore on top of that. The truth about what he
was coupled with trying to remember what his life was six weeks ago
could have caused him to have a mental breakdown.
They had done what they did to protect Dominic but Roderick was
left kicking himself now. Hed been a coward, telling himself it was for
Dominics own good, and partly it was, but what did they do now? The
one thing he feared would happen happened, giving Dominic a crash
course into a world he didnt even know existed. They should have told
him the truth from the beginning.
Fuck, this could be really bad. Viktor stood up. Im going to grab
Devon and have him come out here.
Viktor headed back toward the house. Roderick didnt bother to
watch him go. His frustration was turning his grief into anger. They
should have listened to him and told Dominic he wasnt a full-fledged
human but they didnt. And now they had to wait until Dominic regained
consciousness to see how he was going to deal with this.
This cant be happening, he whispered to himself. Roderick gazed
up at the night sky and did something he didnt think hed ever be able to
do. Please, god, if there is even a god. He chuckled but it came out
more sounding like a choked sob. I know I havent spoken to you in
years but I really could use your help now. Please bring Dom back to
me. I only just found him and, see, hes all Ive got. Tears leaked out his
eyes and down his cheeks.
Knowing that wolves existed and being one were two totally
different things. A human like himself could handle knowing that these
creatures lived in their world. Mostly because they couldnt tell the
difference between a shifter and a regular human. But a shifter had the
knowledge of what they were day in and day out. They knew what their
abilities were and they grew up knowing that and accepted that as a part
of their life. For Dominic, he had no clue that shifters were even a thing
and he sure as shit didnt know that he, too, was one.
Sitting up late one night with Brandon and Erik, Roderick had asked
Erik what it felt like to be a shifter. The young man said it was hard to
explain but that he could feel a source of power always turning inside of
him. At any moment he could shift. He said at times it scared him
because if he lost his temper his wolf could take over and there would
be nothing he could do to stop it. It was a matter of control and taking
charge over the animal inside oneself. A trait learned over years of
living with the wolf inside, but after Dominics accident, he didnt even
have the slightest memory from his old life. They all were hoping he just
accepted it and prayed it all turned out for the best.
One thing Roderick had learned as his years as a marine and a hunter
was that best laid plans always fell to shit. He knew this but still
allowed them to persuade him to watch out for Dominic and, if need be,
kill him if he went feral. Not that any of them wanted that, but Roderick
knew to protect all humans and shifters, he would in fact have to do that
if Dominic couldnt handle the truth. But as he stared down at his mate
now, he knew without a doubt that he could never hurt him. If he had to
end Dominics life for the safety of the town and the pack he would, but
then put a bullet through his own head in return. He could not and would
not live without Dominic.
Has he woken up yet? Devon asked as he stepped up beside
Rodericks kneeling form.
No, not yet. Roderick stood up. His hands shook so badly he
shoved them in his pockets.
So Im going to assume him seeing Seth come busting through the
trees as a wolf then turning into a human is what brought the change on?
Devon asked as he walked a circle around Dominics prone body.
What the fuck do you think? Roderick snapped. His patience had
worn thin and he didnt have time to state the obvious for the pack alpha
who Roderick blamed for all this. You should have told him from the
very beginning. He pointed an accusing finger at Devon.
I sure as hell didnt hear you complaining about the decision.
Devon crossed his thick arms over his broad chest. If I remember
correctly, you wanted to end his life right then and there and it wasnt
until Erik told you that Dominic was your mate did you decide to not kill
him. So please dont pull the holier-than-thou attitude with me.
You smug son of a bitch. Roderick reared on Devon and pulled
back his arm to land a punch on his perfectly chiseled face but Viktor
and Brandon intervened. He wasnt sure when Brandon came outside but
all he wanted to do was break free of his friends hold to kick the shit
out of Devon. Someone needed to be held responsible for this and it
wasnt possible to beat the crap out of himself.
Guys, stop it! Viktor shouted as he yanked his brother toward his
chest. Fighting about this will get us nowhere. And we dont even know
if there is a reason to be upset. Dominic might wake up and remember
his old life or at least remember being a wolf shifter. It might not be as
bad as you two think.
Roderick stopped fighting against Brandons hold and stared at
Devon with narrowed eyes. He wanted to have faith in what Viktor said
but Roderick was a pessimist and didnt want to put hope into anything
just to have it ripped away from him.
The sound of a low and menacing-sounding growl had him tearing
his gaze from Devon. They all looked down to see that Dominic had
come to his feet but sat in a low crouch as if getting ready to attack. His
ears lay back flat against his head and his lips were pulled back baring
his sharp, pointy teeth.
Dominic, Roderick said in a calming tone. Brandon let go of him
as he edged closer to the snarling wolf. Its okay, baby. He held his
hands up in a show of surrender. Im not going to hurt you. No one is.
He took another step closer and Dominic snapped his large teeth at
him, saliva dripped from his meaty jaws.
Dominic, please, dont do this. Roderick pleaded. Come back to
me.
Roderick took one more hesitant step toward Dominic but he snarled
and lunged at him, forcing Roderick to stumble back a step. The blue of
Dominics eyes looked murky, and the enraged expressions on the wolfs
face didnt remind him of Dominic at all.
Just as Roderick reached a hand out toward his mate, consequences
be damned, a shrieking howl ripped through the night. Dominics pointy
ears perked up. He spun around on his paws and darted for the woods,
never looking back.
Fuck. Roderick cursed under his breath as he chased after
Dominic, the others not far behind him, but it was no use. Dominic was
faster than he anticipated. The only sounds were of his heavy breathing
as he fought to catch up to his mate and the others clanking around behind
him.
The trees were full of dark-colored leaves, blocking out any light
from the starry sky. There was a stillness in the air and the pitch
blackness shrouding over them left no room to search without proper
equipment. Roderick was human and he could barely see five feet in
front of him. Hed already stumbled on the uneven ground several times.
Hes gone. He bent at the waist, bracing his hands on his knees,
gasping for air. Hes fucking gone. A burning sensation started in his
chest as if his heart were splitting in two. Dominic was out there all
alone. Anything could happen. They needed to find him and soon.
Come on, Roderick, get up. Devon patted his back then pulled on
the back of his shirt to get him standing. Viktor and I are going to shift
and go on foot. You and Brandon head back to the house and get the
others. We shifters can track his scent while you and Brandon go on
foot. He pulled up on the hem of his shirt then tossed it to the ground.
Have your tranq gun ready. Were going to need it.
Devon removed the rest of his clothes and Viktor had already begun
to shift. The two brothers started off at a fast run when something
occurred to Roderick. How will we find you? he called out to the two
wolves.
Devon, the large blond-colored one, looked over his shoulder and
released a low, ear-piercing howl, and Roderick understood completely.
If they found Dominic theyd howl to get the others attention.
Viktor and Devon took off and became invisible to the eye in the
darkened woods. For the first time in his life, he wished he were a
shifter. Dominic needed him but Roderick was held back by his human
capabilities.
Come on, lets head back. Brandon nudged him in the arm. Weve
got work to do.
Roderick followed his friend out of the woods behind the Carsten
house. A few of the others were waiting for them as they emerged from
the trees. Brandon quickly explained the situation and what needed to be
done. They determined it best for Phillip to stay with Seth in case the
shifter woke up and needed more care. Skyler and Aiden stayed back to
keep an eye on Carson. The little boy was eager to help find Dominic but
they all refused. The last thing they needed was for the small child to
become lost in the dense forest.
Roderick and Brandon pulled out their gear from their trucks and
loaded the tranq guns. He didnt want to shoot his mate but if he had to,
at least it was with a tranquilizer not a bullet.
Erik stuck with Roderick and Brandon. They followed the gray wolf
and listened to the others barking and howling to communicate with one
another. Roderick hoped that Dominic would hear the others and come
back. Maybe if he realized that he wasnt alone, he could come back
from the shock of this discovery.
Chapter Seventeen

Hours had passed and there was still no sign of Dominic. The
horizon was starting to lighten in the distance and before long the sun
would begin to rise. Along with the light of day came the bigger chance
of exposure by the human world. They had to find Dominic before
someone else did.
Any signs? Noah asked over the earpieces he and Brandon had on.
Roderick, Brandon, and Noah were staying in contact just in case they
got separated from the much faster wolves.
Noah had offered to drive his SUV on the back roads surrounding the
property on the off chance Dominic would move further into town.
Still nothing, Roderick answered back.
Over the past six hours they hadnt heard or seen a single thing that
would lead them toward Dominic. Devon had shifted back to human
form to explain that he feared that Dominic had waded through the small
stream that ran along the outer edge of the property line. If Dominic had
done that then it would be harder for the wolves to catch his smell and it
also meant he was traveling toward town, which would be a very bad
thing.
Nehalem wasnt a very large town. They didnt even have their own
schools. All the kids were bussed into Silver Creek. Calling Nehalem a
town was being generous. It was more like a subdivision of Silver
Creek. But just beyond Nehalem was Silver Creek, which was a
considerably larger town. If Dominic made it that far, Roderick didnt
know what theyd do.
They trudged along and Roderick had seen Brandon wince a few
times as he walked along. He, too, was feeling the strain of being on his
feet hiking for hours on end, but he kept going and so did Brandon.
Out of nowhere they heard a loud, long howl echo in the distance.
Roderick hustled after the wolves, Brandon following behind him.
I think we might have something, Roderick said in his radio.
Howls coming from the northwest side.
Im heading that way. Noah said.
If the wolves were reacting in such a way then they had to have found
something. They took off at a fast clip to catch up with the others. Erik
hung back a little as to not lose him and Brandon.
Shane in his tiger form was more agile and soared past the rest of
them. The tiger shifter didnt have as good of a smelling capability. After
working long hours in the coffee shop, Shanes nose was pretty much of
no use unless he took a couple of days off work.
The sounds of barking and snarling could be heard on the wind.
Roderick placed his rifle over his shoulder and ran as fast as he could.
With the clutter of trees and undergrowth, it was hard to make out
anything visible.
Up ahead in the distance he could make out movement. Roderick
moved closer, doing his best to navigate the untried terrain. They had
long since left the Carsten family property lines and Roderick didnt
know for sure where the hell they were exactly.
The growling grew louder followed by an ear-vibrating roar. The
sound was so sharp and distinct there was no denying that a tiger was out
in the woods right now.
What the fuck is going on up there? Brandon asked as he ran
forward.
Roderick didnt answer, just kept moving. As they neared the
commotion he saw his light brown, white and gray-colored wolf rolling
around on the ground with Shane. Shane, still in tiger form, wasnt
attacking Dominic, but trying to stop him from running off. The other
wolves were beginning to surround Dominic and by the ferociousness in
the way Dom was fighting, he was afraid.
Ease up, guys! Roderick shouted. He feels trapped. Youre
scaring him.
The blond wolf shifted and Devon stood to his full height. The
fighting tiger and wolf stopped and stared. Devon held his hands in the
air and spoke in a soft and soothing tone. Dom, were your family.
Please come back with us.
Dominics wolf head swept across the group and Roderick saw the
panic infused in his deep blue eyes.
No! he screamed as Dominic took off up the hill.
Roderick followed, along with the others, after Dom. At the crest of
the hill there was a steep drop-off. A paved road sat at the bottom.
Dominic didnt slow down and tumbled down the hill.
Headlights up ahead lit up the road. Roderick raised a hand to shield
his eyes, trying to see if it was Noah, but he couldnt tell.
Noah, is that you up ahead? Do you see us? he asked in a panicked
rush.
No, I dont see anything. Im about fifteen miles south of your GPS
coordinates. Why? What do you see?
Oh god no. Roderick held onto tree branches as he slid down the
hill calling out to Dominic to stop.
Roderick, is that Noah? Devon asked as he maneuvered himself
down the steep incline.
No. He lost a grip on the tree limb he was clutching to and it
swung back around, whacking him in the face. Roderick sucked in a deep
breath and fell halfway down the hill.
It was as if everything happened in slow motion. Dominic reached
the bottom of the hill and darted across the road but he wasnt fast
enough. A large black pickup truck slammed into Dominics side. The
wolf let out a sharp yelp and the truck skidded sideways as the driver hit
the brakes.
Roderick climbed to his feet and ran in the direction Dominic had
gone. He could hear the soft sounds of breathing but he had to pull out his
flashlight to search further in the heavy brush beside the road.
He saw the bottom of Dominics foot first. Somehow hed managed
to change back. Roderick rushed toward him and gently rolled his lover
onto his back. Blood seeped from a gash on his forehead and dirt and
mud were matted to his skin.
Dom, baby, can you hear me? He felt for a pulse. It beat hard and
strong against his fingertips. Roderick breathed a sigh of relief.
Is he okay? Shane asked as he stepped over the small dip between
the road and where Dominics body had been thrown.
Hes alive but beyond that Im not sure of the extent of his injuries.
He ran the flashlight over Doms body and could see small scratches and
bruises forming on the left side of his body.
We need to get him to a hospital, Shane said.
We cant. Roderick put away his flash light and picked Dominic
up. One arm under his shoulders and the other under his knees and stood
up. If he wakes up in a panic claiming to be a werewolf, theyd admit
him to a psychiatric hospital. That would be bad for everyone if that
happened.
Damn it. Shane helped steady him as he made his way back to the
road. But what if hes hurt really bad?
Phillip will check him out when we get back to the house. Right
now thats our only option for keeping Dom safe. Another set of
headlights flashed as it approached and Roderick recognized Noahs
dark gray Escalade.
Noah came to a stop and hopped out of the car. In here. He opened
the passenger door and folded the seats down to lay Dominic on the
floor.
Once he had Dominic laid out on the floor of the car he rushed over
to where Brandon and Devon stood with a flashlight shining into the
truck that had hit Dominic.
Is the driver okay? Roderick asked.
Yeah. Brandon took a step back so Roderick could peer inside.
The strong stench of whiskey met his nose and his eyes began to
water. An older man sat behind the wheel, by the looks of it passed out.
A bit of drool dripped down his slack, opened mouth.
I guess you can say we got lucky on this one, Brandon said with a
small smile. Even if he saw what he hit, whod believe a drunk?
Roderick looked at Brandon with a raised eyebrow. The man had a
point. Give Caleb a call. I believe this area is within Silver Creeks
city limits. He can handle this.
Ill wait with the driver until Caleb shows up, Brandon said. Go
ahead and get back to the house. Get Dominic looked at.
Thanks, Brandon. Roderick ran back to Noahs SUV and pulled
open the passenger door. Devon sat in the front seat and Shane in the
back combing Dominics hair off his face. Roderick climbed inside and
sat on the other side of Dominic and held one of his smaller hands in
between his larger ones.
The whole ride back to Nehalem, Roderick kept checking Dominics
pulse. It beat at a more steady rhythm now. Dominics poor body took
one hell of a beating as his mate ran crazy through the woods, then to be
hit by a truck.
Roderick felt like this was all his fault. If hed only had told Dominic
from the beginning. Maybe they could have been better prepared for this.
Just so you know, I wasnt trying to hurt him, Shane said softly.
I never thought you were. Brandon saw the way Shane in tiger
form had tried to approach Dominic, but not in a defensive way. But it
didnt matter because Dominic still attacked Shane. The man sat cradling
his arm to his chest. Dry blood coated his fingers. And I dont think he
would have done that if he was thinking clearly, Shane. He nodded to
the mans arm.
I know. Shane gave him a small smile. I was just hoping hed
recognize my smell and not be so afraid butShane held up his arm
guess I was wrong.
Were here. Noah pulled up the driveway to the Carsten house and
threw the car into park, jolting Roderick forward.
Devon opened the door for Roderick and he carried Dominic into the
house. Aiden met them at the door and ushered them to a room on the
first floor. The room was small and Phillip stood by waiting for them.
Boys you do realize Im a vet, not an actual people doctor? Phillip
said as he took in Dominics battered body.
I know, Phillip, but we cant take him into town. He laid Dominic
on the bed. We dont know what his state of mind will be once he
regains consciousness.
Very true. Phillip told him to step back and he got to work
examining Dominics body.
Roderick sat down in the chair by the window and watched as
Phillip did his thing. He wished he could help but he didnt know the
first thing about first aid unless it involved putting a Band-Aid on a cut.
By the looks of it, Dominic had more than just a few cuts.
The cut on his head isnt deep. A few butterfly bandages will work
for that. Phillip waved him over. I cant be certain but I dont think
anything is broken. Well know more for sure once he wakes up. By the
looks of it, the truck clipped the side of his body, not a full-on impact hit.
I imagine Dom here was running pretty fast.
Yeah. Roderick sat down on the edge of the bed by Dominic. The
fist around his heart started to loosen and he could finally breathe.
Hes going to be fine, Roderick. Phillip rested a hand on his
shoulder. With everyone here willing to help him. He pointed down at
Dominic. Hes going to get through this.
Tears started to pool in his eyes and Roderick could only nod his
head, afraid that if he spoke hed get all choked up, unable to say
anything coherent.
So much had happened in such a short time. He could still see the
angry look in Dominics blue eyes before he took off into the woods.
Would the man he loved wake up in that bed, or only a ghost of his
former self?
Chapter Eighteen

Leaves brushed over his head while he ran. The hard ground
helped propel him up in the air and over downed tree limbs. He had
never felt so free.
The smell of moist dirt and pine waved under his nose, beckoning
him further into the deep green of the forest. Birds sang a welcoming
tune as he ran along. Rabbits and squirrels darted out of the way as he
approached.
The warm summer breeze ruffled his hair and Dominic grinned
wildly as he ran faster and harder. Nothing was there to stop him and
he wasnt afraid. The earth, wind, and sun above spoke to him but he
couldnt make out the words. He just kept running.
As he came over a hill, he stumbled to a stop but not soon enough.
He toppled down the hill and landed at the bottom with a teeth-
clattering thump. He gave a shake of his head and looked around him.
Slowly a group of wolves emerged from the cover of trees and
moved to surround him in a semicircle. The one in front seemed to be
larger than the rest and stood out in front of the group. It gave a low
howl and the others joined in on his chorus.
Dominic reached up to cover his ears but he couldnt feel his
hands. He looked down to see brown, fur-covered paws. His heart
stuttered to a stop and he looked up at the giant wolf before him. The
beast gave one slow, up-and-down nod.
One of us.
Dominic slowly opened his eyes. It was only a dream, but was it
really?
He tried to sit up but his body protested the effort. A sharp pain in
his side kept him rooted in his spot. Dominic raised a hand and rubbed it
across his forehead. His fingers brushed against a bandage right above
his left eye.
The way he felt, it was as if hed been hit by a bus.
Youre close. It was a Chevy Truck.
Huh. Dominic looked up to see Roderick sitting in a chair beside
the window. He hadnt noticed him when he first woke up.
You said you felt like you had been hit by a bus but it was actually a
truck. Roderick stood up and walked slowly to the bed. The driver
was drinking and probably didnt see you until it was too late.
Dominic looked down to stare at his hands. He hadnt realized he
spoke that out loud.
Do you recall anything from last night?
Images flashed through his mind like snap shots from a digital
camera. He remembered being so afraid, thinking he was a monster, but
on the other hand it felt so right. For the first time since he woke up from
his coma did he feel comfortable in his own skin, which was funny
because it took turning into a dog to accomplish that.
I do. He met Rodericks gaze. The mans brow was knitted
together as if he were afraid. I know I should be freaking the fuck out
but Im not. Dominic laughed softly. It took turning into a dog to feel so
Dominic looked up at the ceiling, searching for the right words to
say.
Normal. Roderick finished his sentence for him.
Yeah. He tilted his head to look at the man who, in such a short
time, had become a big part of his life. Is that odd?
No. Roderick shook his head.
Silence seemed to draw out between them and it was driving
Dominic crazy. Im a werewolf, huh? It seemed like an easy first
question to get this conversation going.
Actually your kind likes to be called wolf shifters. Roderick
chuckled. Something about it being a Hollywood clich being a called a
werewolf. Either they make you guys out to be mindless monsters or
lovesick fools.
My kind? Dominic shifted on the bed trying to find a more
comfortable position, but the movement pulled at his side and he hissed
in pain.
Are you okay? Roderick scooted forward and gently laid his hand
on Dominics hip.
Just a little stiff is all. When Roderick went to pull his hand away,
Dominic latched onto it. Rodericks posture became tense. Youre not
like me? His voice was barely above a whisper when he spoke. If
Roderick wasnt like him then what was he? And did he not want to be
with him anymore knowing this?
Nope, Im nothing as special as you are. Im just a regular old
human. Roderick smiled at him but it didnt reach his eyes.
But how do you know what I am? Dominic had to think not
everyone in the world knew of people with the ability to turn into other
things. Even though he couldnt remember his old life, it seemed rather
impossible for something like this to be common knowledge.
Because Im a member of the hunters council. He simply stated.
Which means its my job to know everything about shifters.
Dominic knew what the term hunter meant but for some reason that
didnt fit Roderick. He didnt appear to be a man that hunted down
animals for sport. Because if he were, why would he begin a
relationship with Dominic in the first place?
So what does that mean exactly? Dominic could feel his throat
start to constrict. He loved Roderick and didnt know what would
happen now. Are you supposed to take me into custody or kill me? The
familiar burning sensation started to flood his eyes.
Oh god no! Roderick said loudly. He then quickly grabbed both of
Dominics hands in each one of his. Let me explain this better. He took
a deep breath before he spoke. Yes, there was a time when all the
members of the hunters council did was kill shifters. It was our job to
eliminate the threat against humans, but as time went by, we learned that
not all shifters were bad, just like not all humans are good. Theres bad
in each species and its not our job to take innocent lives, be it human or
shifter. We work now with other shifters and hunters with a common
goal of keeping your peoples existence hidden from human society and
to protect both shifters and humans from any threat created by the other.
Dominic absorbed what Roderick had said. He took the
understanding that at one point in time the man he loved killed other
people like him, but not anymore. His job was to protect all innocent
people, human or not. Dominic saw that as a good thing. Sure, Roderick
admitted to a time that it wasnt always like that but the man he had
fallen in love with wasnt some heartless killer and he wouldnt punish
him for the things he did in his past. Dominic would be the last person to
judge a person on past actions since he couldnt even remember his own.
He could have been a total asshole in his old life but no one, including
Roderick, held that against him.
Okay, Dominic said with a smile.
Okay? Roderick tilted his head to the side and narrowed his eyes
at Dominic. I just admitted to being a killer of your kind and, lets not
forget, I kept the fact that you were a shifter from you. And all you can
say is okay?
Its simple really. Dominic pulled his hands from Rodericks and
positioned himself higher up on the bed so he could rest his back on the
headboard. You said youre not here to harm me and from what you just
told me, youre not a killer of all wolf kind. At Rodericks blank stare
he rolled his eyes, but he did it good naturedly. Roderick, Id be a
hypocrite to judge you on things youve done in your past. I love you. All
youve ever shown me is kindness and understanding. A person cant
fake those things and I dont think youd be here if you didnt have
feelings for me, too.
I do love you. Roderick reached out his hand and cupped the side
of Dominics cheek, his thumb rubbing the delicate skin under his eye.
But arent you mad that I kept the truth about who you really are from
you?
That thought had never entered Dominics mind. Everything had
happened so fast he hadnt really had a lot of time to process all the
details. Sure, it would have been nice to have a heads-up before he saw
a wolf turn into a naked man in his backyard. But Dominic knew for a
fact if anyone would have told him he was some sort of half-man half-
wolf type of creature hed have thought they were crazy.
I could be mad but what purpose would it serve? You did what you
thought was right and you did that because you love me. He pulled on
Rodericks hand, beckoning him closer.
Roderick slid up the side of the bed until he was hip to hip with
Dominic. I do love you so very much, Dom, baby.
I know. Dominic leaned forward and rested his forehead against
Rodericks.
Rodericks moved his fingers to the back of Dominics neck and
pulled him closer until their lips met. The kiss was slow and passionate
and exactly what Dominic needed.
Are you sure youre okay with knowing that you can turn into a
wolf? Roderick asked as he eased out of the kiss.
Dominic gave a moments thought about it then nodded his head.
Sure its different but if you think about it it explains a lot. I mean my
love for the outdoors, the way I can smell stuff so intensely, and my
vision is impeccable. Dominic chuckled. And lets not forget my fetish
for biting things. He winked at Roderick.
You truly are amazing, you know that? Roderick gave a swift peck
to his lips.
Well Im not sure about that. I did have a freak out when I saw that
guy and I did run off like a total drama queen. Dominic rolled his
shoulders, trying to work out some of the stiffness. And itll take some
time getting used to my body contorting like that. It hurt like a bitch.
I hear you get used to it after a while. Roderick kissed his lips
softly then started to work his way down Dominics jaw.
I hope so. He moaned as Roderick worked his way down licking
and nipping at his neck. The pleasure that Roderick was bringing to him
at that very moment was overshadowed by one little thing that he still
couldnt piece together about last night. Did I really see a large white
tiger or was that part of my imagination?
Roderick stopped his oral onslaught of Dominics neck and sat back,
laughing so hard he put a hand to his mouth to cover the joyous sound.
Dom, baby, you still have a lot to learn about your new life and
family.

* * * *

Dominic came to learn that Shane, one of his best friends, was a tiger
shifter. If he thought finding out he was a wolf shifter was fascinating, he
went completely overboard bombarding Shane with questions.
At times Dominic caught himself laughing knowing that Shane was a
tiger amongst a house full of wolves. The preconceived notion that cats
and dogs didnt get along didnt apply in the shifter world.
Dominic still hadnt tried to shift since that first night. Between being
hit by a truck and fear of feeling his bones pop out of place when he
shifted, Dominic was in no rush. Erik and Shane didnt have a problem
shifting to their other forms in front of him and Dominic found himself
holding his hands to his ears as their bodies molded into that of a wolf
and tiger.
Every time he watched one of his friends shift he could feel a tingling
sensation creep up his spine. His skin prickled with anticipation and his
teeth would lengthen in his mouth but he was still too weak to go through
with the change.
The man that had unintentionally unveiled the shifter world to
Dominic was still at the Carsten house. Dominic had been worried about
him too but Shane said that Seth would be all right. He had been attack
and had some bite wounds that were in the process of healing. But all in
all hed make a full recovery after getting some rest just like Dominic
would.
Roderick stayed with him, only leaving his side to use the restroom.
The man was very attentive and showered Dominic with love and
affection.
What is a mate? Dominic asked one night as they laid there
cuddling together, staring out the window at the brightly lit stars. Erik
had briefly mentioned him and Roderick being mates in passing but
didnt elaborate on the issue much.
How do you know about that? Roderick propped on his elbow and
pushed on Dominics shoulder until he lay on his back.
Erik said something about it and thats how he refers to Brandon.
Dominic started to worry his bottom lip. What does it mean?
Wolf shifters mate for life with only one person. That person is
perfect for them in every way. The attraction and love they feel for each
other is instant. Roderick kissed both his cheeks. So much so that they
dont know how they would survive without that person.
That sounds beautiful, he mumbled. Dominic felt all those things
for Roderick.
Thank you, mate.
Mate? Dominics eyebrows arched up his forehead.
Yeah, Im your mate and youre mine. Roderick sat up and pulled
off his t-shirt, exposing his silky smooth skin. The glow from the stars
cast a shimmering light on his muscular chest. See this? Roderick
pointed to the bite mark Dominic had given.
Yes. Dominic caressed a finger up the curve of Rodericks
pectoral muscles where they divided between his chest in a deep groove,
to trace the mark on his lovers neck.
You dont necessarily have a biting fetish. Roderick chuckled.
Wolf shifters mark their mates in this way. It indicates to other shifters
that we belong to someone else. Its a show of our love and loyalty to
one another.
I do love you more than anything, Dominic whispered. His
emotions were getting the better of him and he could feel the tightness in
his throat and the sting in his eyes as tears started to gather.
I love you, too, Dom, baby. Roderick smiled down at him and took
his lips in a slow and sensual kiss, their tongues gliding and twirling
together in a rhythmic dance of love.
Rodericks gentle fingers slid down Dominics body and tugged
down his pants. Dominic reached down and helped remove Rodericks.
The feel of Rodericks heated skin made Dominics cock pulse in need
and made his orgasm spring to the surface.
They lay there kissing and Roderick ground his hips down into
Dominics letting their engorged shafts rub against one another. It sent
waves of desire up Dominics body until he was begging Roderick to
take him. To make them one.
Roderick reached over to the night stand and grabbed the lube. He
covered his hardened cock then painted the remainder in his hand on
Dominics excited entrance. He jerked and twitched at the wet glide
over his most sensitive skin.
Very slowly Roderick guided the rounded blunt tip to Dominics
opening. Dominics breath hitched as inch by slow inch Roderick filled
his tight channel. The slight burn mixed with mind blowing pleasure that
had Dominic panting in need.
Roderick took him slowly and with kindness that made Dominic fall
in love with him even more. He whispered sweet words of love into
Dominics ear and all became too much.
The muscle wall that covered Rodericks stomach rippled up and
down Dominics shaft until he came crying out Rodericks name. One,
two, three thrusts of Rodericks hips later had his mate following after
him.
As they lay entwined together coming down from their blissful high
Dominic started to think about his life. He still couldnt remember his
past. Every time he tried, he was met with a black wall of nothingness.
But he couldnt and wouldnt dwell on it or feel guilty for not
remembering it. He may never get those memories back and that was
okay. Dominic had the love of a good man and a family that accepted him
regardless of all that. What more could he ask for?


THE END

WWW.AJJARRETT29.BLOGSPOT.COM
ABOUT THE AUTHOR


AJ Jarrett currently lives in the Midwest with her husband and four
children. A lover of M/M romances, she has started writing her own
stories for others to enjoy. She loves her characters to be antagonistic
toward one another but ultimately find their happy ever after. She
believes love can be found in the craziest of places, and a little humor
along the way never hurt. To her, theres nothing sexier than two men
finding their soul mate in each other and falling in love. When she isnt
chasing around her kids, she can be found sitting on the couch with her
trusted laptop, giving life to the voices in her head.


For all titles by AJ Jarrett, please visit
www.bookstrand.com/aj-jarrett




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