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This book is a work of fiction. The names, characters, places, and incidents are products of the writer’s imagination or have been
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Samhain Publishing, Ltd.
577 Mulberry Street, Suite 1520
Macon GA 31201
Dark Chance
Copyright © 2008 by Melissa Lopez
ISBN: 1-59998-603-5
Edited by Lindsey McGurk
Cover by Anne Cain
All Rights Are Reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission,
except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical articles and reviews.
First
electronic publication: June 2008
Dark Chance
Melissa Lopez
Dedication
To Anne Cain, who has taken not one but three cover art forms and created the most
amazing artwork for my stories. Thanks so much for working your magic and assisting in
bringing my worlds alive!
Dark Chance
Chapter One
“Move your ass.” The nudge to Olivia’s back propelled her forward. She stumbled along in
the unfamiliar and equally uncomfortable shoes.
Only minutes ago she’d been bathed and clothed. Such luxuries for someone so undeserving.
What place had she been taken where clothes were allowed? Degradation accompanied
nakedness in Netherworld.
Dizziness clouded her head. Where was she? Too bright lights shone above. Fresh clean
scents assaulted her nose. Food. The delicious smell of food teased her senses. Hunger pangs
gnawed at her empty stomach.
People dressed in clothes came and went as she and Alastor passed.
So many new stimuli for her to take in. She was inside a building of some sort, but not the
Dark Prince’s palace.
This wasn’t the world she’d been born into either. London’s East End had been poor and
gloomy. The summers had been sweltering. Winters had been so cold she’d thought her bones
would crack. While in Netherworld, the elements of weather didn’t only torment, they claimed
lives.
Not this world. The temperature was pleasing.
Unable to comprehend what was happening to her, she shook her head. She blinked and
nothing changed back to the stinking realm she’d become accustomed to.
Just as in Netherworld, no one spoke to her as she passed by. Only stared, or lowered their
gaze.
Another shove sent her forward. She gasped and caught herself before she tumbled down
some stairs. She glanced over her shoulder to meet the glowing eyes of the demon lord, Alastor.
To many, the legion lord was known as The Executioner. She shivered at the demon’s ugliness.
How had she wound up with one of Netherworld’s most vicious? His cruelty was whispered
about among the slaves. His volatile temper was avoided by all.
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His smile sparked a trembling that sent her knees to knocking. “Move your fucking ass, or
we’ll miss the opportunity.”
Opportunity? Of what did the legion lord speak? What opportunity would ever be offered to
the likes of her? This was very bad. Some new torture she’d never heard whispered of among the
lost souls.
Unsatisfied with the speed she walked, he clasped her upper arm in a bruising grip and
marched her down the rest of steps.
“Please, Master, I don’t understand.” They crossed a foyer with vaulted ceilings. She’d once
entered a church that’d been almost as beautiful.
Disgust twisted his features when he spared her a glance. “To think you were handpicked for
this.”
What did he mean? Picked for what?
Desperately, she looked around for some clue as to what was happening to her. Nothing was
familiar. Especially not the wide-eyed people staring at her. Oddly, no fear was displayed in the
looks flashed her way. In Netherworld no one would spare her a glance. They had too many
things to fear.
Her head pounded in time with her heart as he pulled her along to exit the building.
“Listen to me, you stupid cunt.” His scaly hand tightened on her arm. “We don’t have much
time.”
Olivia whimpered at the feel of claws digging into her skin.
“Our Prince has picked you to damn a soul.”
“No.” The word was out before she could stop it. Be the cause of someone’s damnation?
Wildly, she shook her head. Her stomach knotted. She’d do anything, but she didn’t want to
condemn someone else.
The demon stopped them in their trek. “I dare you to say no again.” A smile that didn’t
reach his amber eyes curled his grotesque lips.
She’d been chosen. Their Prince expected this cruel deed of her…
Oh, Mummy…
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Her breath burst in short pants as terror thundered in her blood. Defy a demon, let alone the
Devil? Did she have it in her? If she did this would it lighten her burden in Netherworld?
She trembled from head to toe. “I’m sorry, Master.” Of course she’d do anything their lord
wanted of her. Anything the demon ordered her to do. All lost souls existed only to please the
Dark Prince. They existed to slave for the legion lords.
“That’s better.” He caressed her hair. “I didn’t think you were as stupid as you look.”
Once again, he got them moving.
Frantic, Olivia did her best to stay on her feet. She didn’t understand the hurry. In
Netherworld, time as well as torture crawled along at a grueling pace.
“Your mark’s named Malin Cross.” He squeezed her wrist. “Can you remember at least that
much?”
“Yes, Master.”
“First, you seduce him.”
She gasped. Seduction wasn’t something she was practiced at. In life she’d not been a
wanton and in Netherworld… A chill crawled across her skin.
The Dark Prince counted on her to use sex against this unknown man.
“Once Malin speaks of hate and revenge, encourage him.” Pain flashed up her arm as he
pulled her closer. “You encourage him to act on his hate, act on his desire to take matters into his
own hands. Urge him to be vengeful.” Harsh breath choked her. “Do you understand me?”
“Yes, Master.”
Hurrying along she closed her eyes in prayer.
Malin Cross.
May God save him.
The demon stopped, causing her to stumble into him. Blocking her way, he pinched a nipple
with such viciousness she cried out.
No one came to her aid.
“Bitch, I’ll be keeping a close watch on you. You’ll not fail our Prince.” Alastor grabbed her
arm and propelled her outside. “I suggest keeping your thoughts in check.”
She whimpered. “Yes, Master.” Somehow, she’d be more careful.
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“Malin’s longtime fantasy is to have a submissive woman at his beck and call.”
“Yes, Master.” Could a lost soul be anything but submissive? Though legends were
whispered about a few condemned who’d refused to bend. The strong were always singled out
for more extreme torture. Not her. She’d caved in to the torment long, long ago.
“Malin prefers natural redheads.”
Two for two. She nodded.
“A thief and whore, you’ll do fine.” He pulled her along in the fading sun.
She stiffened. She’d been no whore.
“Our Prince will be proud when you cross the soul over.” He wove them through the moving
crowd.
In awe, she stared. She tried to take in the details of this new place. Some buildings towered
over others. She couldn’t get over the number of laughing, talking people. Some even talked to
themselves as they passed by.
Olivia’s heel caught on a crack in the stone, and she nearly fell.
An old woman patted her hand. “Are you all right, dear?” A frown creased the woman’s
wrinkled face. Obviously in this new world no one could see the demon lord.
“Yes, mistress.”
Alastor jerked her forward. He barreled them through a group of milling people.
Olivia screamed as the legion lord shoved her so hard, she fell into a fast moving object.
Pain burst in her hip and ribs as she was thrown forward. Her wrist cracked when she hit the
ground. Her head thumped hard, momentarily blinding her until the agony faded.
Noises blared.
Women talked in overly loud tones.
Olivia heard the sound of running feet.
The sound of male voices rose, some in languages she didn’t know.
She rolled her head to see strange-looking carriages with fat wheels stopped nearby.
“Lady, can you hear me?” A hand touched her shoulder.
She rolled her head to look up. The clearest brown eyes she’d ever seen focused solely on
her.
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Yes, Master, she tried to speak. While the pain had already begun to recede, her tongue felt
heavy.
“Jesus, I didn’t see you.” He knelt down as her eyelids slid closed. “I’m Special Agent
Cross. I’ve already called for an ambulance.”
Malin Cross.
Olivia forced her eyes open.
She’d just met her mark.
A glance wasn’t long enough to get her fill. She wanted to take his every feature in, to
memorize him from head to foot as he crouched over her. The man was by far the most pleasing
looking man she’d ever met. A nice firm jawline. Brown eyes and thick brown hair to match.
Even kneeling over her the way he was, she could tell he was a big, broad man.
Someone so handsome deserved to be an angel.
Not condemned.
Malin’s hands shook while he stood outside the examining room. After giving the officers
on scene a statement, he’d arrived at the hospital shortly after the ambulance. A nurse had asked
him to wait outside during the initial examination. He’d been damn lucky his badge had allowed
him this far.
Sweet Jesus, he’d run a woman over.
He simply hadn’t seen her. She’d come out of nowhere. On his life he’d swear to that fact.
Fuck.
Quietly he gave thanks he hadn’t started drinking—yet. He’d taken to drinking more and
more in recent weeks. The longer the serial killer he hunted stayed on the streets the more he
tended to toss them back.
Fuck. I nearly killed someone.
Maybe this was a wake-up call. Jesus knew if he got a chance he’d take the cretin out.
Already he’d considered taking a vacation and going off the grid to do some hunting of his own.
Who’d miss one scumbag?
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With a shaky hand he raked his hair back. Damn, he needed his head on straight. He worked
to keep himself together, professional.
A scream from the room drove him inside.
The unknown female now stood beside the bed, frantically pulling the IV insert from her
hand.
“Olivia, I’m not going to hurt you.” The doctor spared him a glance. “Agent Cross, I need
you to wait outside.” The doctor worked to clean and bandage her hand. A nurse assisted him as
needed.
This time, he ignored the doctor. His gaze didn’t stray from the redhead. Never once in his
life had he seen such desperation. Not on the streets where he grew up. Not in the prison where
he’d once been a guard. Not while profiling. And his career had given him many trials.
He knew suffering. The woman needed help.
Malin edged around the end of the bed. “Remember me from the accident?” He hadn’t
expected to see her on her feet. She’d been so pale and still when she’d been lying on the street.
“Yes, Master.”
Awareness sucker punched him at her words. No don’t go there either. Could be he’d
misheard her.
Her whole body trembled. “Please…please don’t keep me in a hospital. I’ll do anything…”
Her lower lip quivered.
“She freaked out when we told her where she is.” The doctor waved a hand. “If they’re not
too busy upstairs, I’m going to get a psychiatric evaluation.”
He nodded, while paying attention to the redhead. Master? “I’m Malin Cross.”
“Please, Master, I don’t want to stay here.” Tears welled in her black eyes. A story lay
hidden in their depths. Stories were his life. And he wanted to know hers.
“Sure. Sure. I’ll get you out of here as soon as I can.” He caught her hands up in his, forcing
the doctor to step back out of the way.
“Agent Cross, she was hit by a speeding car. She needs x-rays.” The doctor’s mouth twisted.
“She could have internal bleeding. Broken bones.”
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Slowly he examined her face. Even in a hospital gown and hair a mess she was more than
beautiful. “She’s standing on her own two feet. That has to count for something.” Malin focused
on the woman. It was her trust he wanted. “I don’t know anyone who wants to stay in a hospital.”
“I’ve seen patients walk out on their own feet only to die from a blood clot.” The doctor
jotted something on a clipboard.
Knowing the man was right, he nodded. She had to be checked out. No matter her growing
appeal, he didn’t want to be responsible for her death.
The woman whimpered. “Please, Master, I don’t want to be here.”
He ignored the pleading in her gaze. With difficulty he ignored the jolt of desire the use of
Master sent through his blood. Not too many times had he heard the title used in the “real”
world.
She sparked something to life deep inside. It’d been so long since he’d felt anything other
than an all consuming loathing. Still he worked to stay centered. “Look, you let them finish
examining you, and I’ll get you out of here.” He urged her to get back in the bed.
“You promise?”
“I do.” He swallowed past the words. “You have my word. Just let them take care of you for
a while.”
“You won’t leave me?” Her gaze threatened to swallow him.
A tightness in his chest he’d not experienced before stole his breath, leaving him shaky. No
one had ever needed him before. Not really. Not the way the redhead looked at him now. He
took a step closer. “Not any longer than it takes me to deal with billing.”
Hesitantly, she did as he encouraged.
Malin stepped out of the way for the doctor and nurses to do their jobs.
“You want responsibility for her?” The doctor glanced his way. “We haven’t got much out
of her besides her name.”
Olivia, the doctor had called her. It was a nice name.
“Yeah.” Malin nodded before making his way back into the hallway.
It took him an hour to get through registration and billing.
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Twice afterward he checked on the woman while she slept. On his third stop into her room,
he lingered, her pale beauty intriguing him. Facial features so delicate. Yet so strong. She
captivated him.
He pulled his gaze away from the beauty when the doctor entered.
“Well, no broken bones. And no swelling in the brain.” The doctor shrugged a shoulder. “I’d
like to keep her over night, but since she was so insistent earlier…and since she appears fine…”
Relief eased some of the tension from his muscles. He was damn glad he hadn’t injured her
badly. “I’ll take care of her.” She caught his attention again. “How old do you think she is?”
“Twenty-three. Twenty-five max.”
Malin grunted. He’d guessed as much.
The doctor touched the sleeping beauty’s arm. “Olivia, wake up.”
Startled, she blinked and pushed up to sit.
“If you’re ready to go, sign here.” The doctor handed over the clipboard.
The redhead simply stared at the offering.
“You do remember your name, don’t you?” The doctor lowered the board.
“Yes, yes, Master, I do.” She swallowed. “My name is Olivia Sutcliff.”
“Olivia, can I talk you into staying overnight?” The doctor used soothing tones.
She was having none of it, she moved back as far as the bed allowed.
“This place is stacked up tonight. I’d have time to get a psych eval then.” Tiredly, the doctor
raked a hand through his hair.
“Olivia, do you have any family I can call?” Malin took a step in her direction. He hadn’t
wanted to bother her with questions while she rested.
“No, Master.” The gentle smile that turned her lips up kick-started his heart. “My mum has
gone on to a much better place.”
He nodded. “What about your father?”
“Oh, he died when I was very young. I never had a chance to know him.”
Both parents already gone. Damn, life sure beat down on some more than others. Malin
released a breath before holding her gaze once more. “No siblings? Cousins?”
“No, Master. Just me and my mum.”
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“What about friends?”
“Oh no, no friends.”
Malin turned toward the doctor. “Did you need anything else from her?”
“No. all the tests came back normal.” The man shrugged. “I’d expected her to be littered
with wounds, but at a glance, she has nothing more than a few bruises.”
“Fine.” Malin took the clipboard and attempted to give it to Olivia. “I’ll drive you home
once you sign out.”
Her mouth trembled. “I cannot read, Master.” She stiffened her shoulders as she lowered her
lashes.
Fuck.
“Okay. Close your eyes, Doc.” Malin scribbled her name across the appropriate lines.
“Be sure to come back if there’s a problem.” After the doctor retrieved the record, he headed
to the door. “Headache. Anything.”
Then they were alone.
Malin handed her the dress from the chair. He tried not to think about the fact that there
were no underclothes. “You want to change so we can get out of here?”
“Oh yes, Master.” Before he could turn away to wait in the hall, she loosened the gown she
wore, and allowed it to slide down to the floor.
Full throttle lust stirred. His cock thickened.
Jesus, man, now isn’t the time.
But he couldn’t take his gaze from her. Didn’t want to. It’d been far too long since he’d been
turned on so quickly and intensely.
Round, firm breasts stood proudly at attention. Rosy nipples puckered up.
From head to toe she had a trim, toned body. His hands itched to explore her skin.
Olivia had a trim waist. Flared hips intrigued him. A thatch of red curls nestled seductively
between firm thighs.
The redhead would do Playboy proud. She’d make a perfect August centerfold. She was that
hot.
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In that moment, Olivia went from accident victim to a woman. A breathtaking woman, one
he wanted to get to know.
“Do you wish to fuck me, Master?” Her English accent had grown thicker.
Master. His balls dew up even as the lightest of alarm bells rang in his head. He ignored the
suspicions over the circumstances of their meeting. He pushed the facts away, for once going
where he as a man wanted to.
Jesus, what a fantasy. To have someone give themselves so completely into his care… Yes,
he wanted to fuck her again and again until this crazy need disappeared. Again he took in her
tempting curves until he noted she’d balled her hands up.
“No,” he forced out as he looked way.
Professional. You have to keep this professional.
Fuck, he’d hit the woman with his car. Surely, that was something he could focus on instead
of her delectable body.
“Here put this on, and I’ll take you home.” Her fingertips brushed his, sending a shockwave
to his groin. “I’ll wait out in the hall for you.”
Grateful to be out of the hospital Olivia slid into the seat as instructed. Once sentenced to a
hospital in Netherworld, you were never seen again. A quiver raced along her spine. The threat
of a hospital alone would keep any lost souls in line. She shook off the worry. That hospital
hadn’t been bad at all.
When Malin joined her in the carriage he closed them inside. “Where to?”
She blinked, uncertain what he meant. “Wherever pleases you, Master.”
“I meant, where’s your home?”
Nervous, she picked at the hem of the short dress she wore. She didn’t want to go back to
Netherworld. But this was no more than a reprieve from her sentence.
“You going to buckle up?”
Unsure of what he expected, she regarded her hands.
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Malin reached across her, his breath warm on her cheek as he clicked the strap into place.
He then put a harness across his wide chest. “Okay, now where to?”
He turned a key and made the carriage they sat in vibrate. She clutched the door and bit her
tongue so she’d not ask where the horses were. “I…I…” She floundered, undecided on what to
tell him.
“Bitch, tell him your Master kicked your ass out, and you’re now on your own.” Alastor
sneered into her mind. “Tell him to drop you at any BDSM club.”
Olivia hesitated. She’d prefer to know what a BDSM club was first. What if Malin chose to
drop her off at one?
“Thanks to a Succubus, I know his every secret desire.” The pressure in her head eased as
Alastor faded away. “Be a useful, cunt, and do as you’re told.”
With no real choice, she exhaled a long breath. “I’m in need of a new Master. Do you know
of a BDSM club nearby?”
“What?” His voice tingled across her nerve endings. From the vibrations of the tone
unexpected sensations danced low in her belly. In wonder, she placed her hand low, just above
her pelvic bone. All from the simple sound of his voice.
“Say again?”
She crossed her legs in hopes of prolonging the tingling.
“I’ve nowhere to go…” She regarded him. “Will you protect me? Be my new Master?”
His brown gaze darkened. The heated emotion caused a raw sensation to flutter in her
stomach. The feeling was quite pleasing. She squeezed her thighs together, enjoying the
intensity. So strange since she’d learned to feel very little at all. Abuse did that to a body. You
simply accepted without care. Oh, but this experience, this was oh-so-sweet.
“Everyone has fantasies.” Alastor’s evil laughter echoed in her mind, shattering her nerves.
“Look, Olivia, I’m not someone you want to play with. The doctor said you could only
recall your name. Do you remember anything more?” He set the carriage in motion.
“Tell him your head hurts when you try to remember.” The pressure within her skull
disappeared entirely.
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“I…I know my Master no longer wants me.” She rubbed her temple. “It’s hard to think
now.”
“I’m going to set you up in a hotel room while I wait for a hit on your photo and prints.” His
hand that held the wheel clenched. “I took the liberty of running them through the system while
you slept. I should know who you are by morning.”
She was curious about his home, but accepted what was given. “Yes, Master.” Quietly, she
sat back to watch the amazing sight of moving carriages. They came in so many sizes. Many
were larger than the old shack she’d shared with her mum. She lost count of the buildings they
moved past. While she couldn’t read, another lost soul had taught her to count. It helped her keep
track of the deaths she relived, the years she existed.
All too soon the carriage stopped, and Malin climbed out.
Olivia eagerly watched as he came around to her side. He walked with the grace of a
predator. Her skin heated. Simply looking at the man excited her. Strange how no one had ever
thrilled her before. Not even the powerful legion lords that some lost souls wanted to be claimed
by.
Malin helped her from the seat, closing the door with an unusual noise. “I want you to call
me Malin.”
Call this man by his given name? To be so bold? “If it pleases you. I…I’ll try,
Mas…Malin.”
He sighed, then ushered her along into the building.
At the front desk, Olivia waited while Malin spoke with the clerk. The feel of his hand on
her lower back got her moving. Desire not to please Alastor, but Malin curled in hot arousal as
he kept his hand in place until they entered a small lift.
Her stomach bottomed out at the speed with which the room moved.
“Hey.” Malin wrapped a strong arm around her. “You all right?” He urged her to exit.
“Elevators get to a lot of people.”
She rubbed her middle, sure her reaction had more to do with the endless hunger than
anything else.
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Side by side they walked down a short hallway until he halted their progress. He opened the
door, waving her on through. “This one is yours.”
In wonder, she made her way around the room. She’d never been in something so fine. Well,
besides the Dark Price’s palace, But she was meant to stay here. At least overnight. Just how
long would she be given to sway him to the dark side? A week appealed to her, a month would
be better. “It’s lovely, Master.” Gently, she ran her fingertips over the wooden table. Not a single
nick or wood knot in sight.
Under his scrutiny so long, she proceeded to the window. She’d noticed that same look at
the hospital as well as when he’d harnessed her into the carriage. What did his expression mean?
She’d never seen anyone bear it before. Most in Netherworld never met her eyes long enough for
her to see anything on their faces. Maybe to him the room was ugly. She’d need to be very
careful of what she said.
At first glance at the city, she gasped. Excitedly, she pulled the window covering to the side.
“How can we be so high?”
“We’re not so high.” His rough voice drew closer. “I never stay in a room an escape ladder
can’t reach.”
She turned, only to catch her breath. He now stood right in front of her. “It looks very high
to me.” Buildings like this didn’t exist in Netherworld. Though she’d been forced many times to
climb the steepest of mountainsides dragging dead weight. She shuddered. She hated falling to
her death. She hated how it always felt like the reaper reached out to steal her with a scythe
before she hit the ground.
A measure of comfort calmed her at being able to be reached by an escape ladder. How
amazing such things existed for escape. No one escaped in or from Netherworld.
Malin cleared his throat. He studied her with his hands in his pockets. “Look, I’ll be right
next door.” Slowly, he drifted to another door. “I’ve got us adjoining rooms. I have insomnia.
You need anything, just let me know.”
“What is insomnia, Master?”
“I rarely sleep.”
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“How horrible. Sleep is my only pleasure.” Sleep was the only silence Netherworld had to
offer the lost souls. Only sleep offered any measure of peace.
“You hungry?” His lashes lowered half mast. “I could order you a dinner tray and have it
brought up.”
Olivia’s stomach rumbled loudly. “Oh, Master.” Mouth watering, she took a step toward
him. “I am starving.” At her blunder, she looked down at his feet. She wanted to bite her tongue
but the admission was too late. In Netherworld you showed no weaknesses. They’d only be used
against you.
Instead of laughter or taunting her, he stepped away. “All right, then I’ll order us
something.”
Intrigued she watched his departing back. Malin was being kind to her. Kindness was
something she’d not experienced since her mum.
Kindness.
Oh mum, what am I going to do? How can I be cruel to him when he’s been nothing but
gracious?
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Chapter Two
Uncertainty. It was a new concept for Malin. Not even as a geeky teen getting the shit beat
out of him had he been uncertain about anything.
Now there was Olivia, who he couldn’t read.
And this unnerved him like nothing else.
In growing frustration, he paced. He willed either his contact to call back with the run down
on Olivia or their dinner he’d ordered through room service to arrive. He didn’t care which.
Either would give him an excuse to spend more time with Olivia. Though since leaving her
alone, he’d already checked on her once.
Laughter from the other room drew him to the connecting door. Unable to resist, he cracked
it open. She had the water in bathroom running. Again. He’d heard it moments ago. Only this
time, the light was on.
Standing only steps from his guest, he watched her reflection in the mirror. His groin stirred
once more. Arousal took hold, causing him to fight the need to get closer to her.
Although her eyes were black, they never failed to express emotion. Oddly enough, she
appeared as confused as he was at the moment. Probably more so. He knew she wasn’t guileless,
while he’d bet his pension she wasn’t acting.
Carefully, he contemplated the beauty. Since leaving the hospital, he’d been unable to think
of anything else.
She was too hot to handle. The beautiful people would pay to look like her. She had to spend
her every waking moment working out to be that toned. He’d never favored a defined physique
on a woman. But Olivia had proven him wrong.
She was a sensual feast. One he wouldn’t mind tasting. Dynamite was a perfect description
for her.
But dynamite handled carelessly had been known to kill.
Malin closed his eyes.
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Damn.
“Master?”
His cock twitched with a thrill. Jesus, the woman was ripe for his deepest fantasy. The need
for control in every aspect of his life was his biggest flaw. The role of a full-time dominant had
been a longtime desire. He’d never pursued the lifestyle—instead, he’d only superficially delved
into the world from time to time at clubs. Even while in scenes, his lack of trust in others had
kept him at a distance.
Olivia he’d be willing to get into some very private scenes… Well, that was if her sheet
came up clean. As sexually appealing as she was, his sixth sense couldn’t be overridden.
His fantasy had been dropped in his lap. Odds were he was being set up. He’d made far too
many enemies.
“Malin?” She moved close. Her eyes shown with excitement. She’d worn the same
expression as they’d driven through the city. “The water is clean. I tried it. It won’t poison us.”
No sooner than the words left her mouth, she had a momentary freeze reaction.
Poison?
With a professional’s care, he studied her.
Wincing, she rubbed her temple, adding to his concern.
She held up a cup. “Are you thirsty?”
Malin didn’t miss a beat. “Thanks, but I need something stronger.” He braced a shoulder on
the doorframe and propped the door open.
Almost shyly, she finished the water and went back for more. “This place is amazing.”
The hotel was no five star but all right for economy class.
Again, she filled the glass up to guzzle it, before sitting it on the counter.
“You keep filling up on water you won’t have room for dinner.”
“Oh, I’ve got plenty of room left.” A happy smile spread across her full mouth. Lust rolled
through his blood. Jesus, she had a kissable mouth. A fuckable mouth. Now there was an image
to keep him hard. Olivia on her knees, sucking him off.
Exhaling slowly he worked to ease the arousal.
She lowered herself on the corner of the bed.
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“Olivia, my job is to ask questions.” He stayed in the doorway. “So forgive me for any
distress my inquiries will cause.”
Nervously, she moistened her lips.
His balls drew up.
Malin focused past the desire the sight of her tongue ignited. He needed to stay in a work
frame of mind. “Why did you use the word poison? Do you fear someone?” Yes, the woman
could be delusional or psychotic… But not once had he gotten either impression. “If you’re in
trouble, I’ll help you.”
There was a clear change in her body language. Her shoulders slumped and her back bowed
ever so slightly. She rubbed at her temple again, only this time she used both hands.
Something bothered her. What he wouldn’t give to be a mind reader.
The next moment, she surprised him when she sprang to her feet. Desperation oozed from
her as she clutched at his suit jacket. “Master, it’s not me who should fear someone!”
Malin caught her as she fainted. “Olivia!” He scooped her up in his arms and carried her to
the bed.
Doing her best to hold back the trembling, Olivia huddled in her suspended cage. Her
breathing hitched. Even after all the time she’d spent in this horrid place, her tormenters could
bring her to her knees.
The pain in her head brought about from Alastor’s snide remarks had disappeared, but her
reprieve from Netherworld was over. She was home.
She’d been so stupid to step out of line! But she’d wanted to protect Malin so badly. Now
she’d never get to see him again.
Below her, the slithering snakes’ hissing grew fiercer.
Her need to urinate intensified. How she hated the torture of the snake dungeon. How many
times had they already inflicted death? She’d lost count.
The room went eerily quiet. Along with Olivia, the lost souls sharing her punishment held a
collective breath.
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Olivia whimpered at the sight of the Dark Prince. He held a chain, attached to the jeweled
collar of his mistress, Sienna. Since her arrival in Netherworld, Olivia had only been in the
Prince’s presence one other time. And that’d been when he’d inspected her for his harem. To this
day, she gave thanks she’d been found lacking.
Alastor followed behind their Prince.
The serpents separated to allow them to walk through the wiggling mass covering the
dungeon floor.
A female lost soul nearby started to cry when the Dark Prince stopped under her cage. He
moved to stand at the opening.
Without being asked, the slave scooted forward so her pussy and ass now settled over the
slot on the bottom of the cage.
His tongue darted out as he tasted her. After several long licks, their Prince stepped back.
Olivia shivered as stark fear crawled up her spine. She shook her head at his smile. Then
watched in terror as he waved his fingertips to a large, coiled snake. The creature uncurled itself,
rose up on its body until its eyes were level to its Master.
Satan stuck his tongue out and allowed the snake’s to caress his. Once finished, their lord
faced Olivia’s direction and smiled. His amber gaze glowed to match the fires he ruled over.
Olivia’s head swam. How could someone so truly handsome be so completely cruel? Her
mum had been right. Beauty was only skin deep. Like many of the nobles of her time, Satan
abused his power.
The snake turned its head to the blonde lost soul the Dark Prince had been tongue fucking
moments ago. Ever so slowly, the serpent moved to the woman’s cage.
She screamed in fright and scooted as far back as possible in her prison. There was nowhere
for the condemned woman to escape.
Olivia closed her eyes.
At her cage the Dark Prince tsked, “Pet, do you want the same fate? I know how you love to
play with my serpents.”
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Olivia cringed as the lost soul screamed. She didn’t dare look. Tears clogged her throat.
“Please, Master… I’ll be good…” Her bladder pained her as a sob tore its way up from her
stomach. Please keep the snakes away from me.
“You understand our time constraint?” His could barely be heard over the other woman’s
terror.
“Yes, Master.” Desperate, she nodded. She didn’t understand anything other than they
wanted to hurt Malin, but she nodded again. No one questioned the will of the Prince. “Yes,
Master.”
“There’ll be no trouble from you?”
“I promise, Master…”
Satan spared Alastor a glance. “Give her some space. Send a minion to keep watch.”
“Yes, Master.” The demon bowed.
The Dark Prince clasped Sienna’s hand to guide her away from Olivia’s cage. He held
Sienna’s collar loosely in his other hand. “Olivia, dare fail me and my friend will also know you
intimately.”
The caged blonde’s screams had turned hoarse.
“Yeesss…yes, Master.” Olivia barely had time to nod.
On a gasp, she returned to her body cradled in Malin’s arms. “Olivia?”
She blinked in utter relief and threw her arms around his neck before he could straighten up
from the bed.
“You all right?” His strong arms went around her back. “You fainted, but I no sooner had
you settled on the bed than you came to. How do you feel? Still lightheaded?”
Such kindness, such concern from him. A moan slid through her lips. She’d never be able to
do him harm. She didn’t want to. Looking into his gaze, she knew what had to be done. No
matter the cost, she’d try and save his soul.
“I’m well.” She hugged him as if her life depended on the embrace. “Only lightheaded from
not eating.”
“Damn.” He caressed her from her hips to shoulders. “Of course, you’re hungry.”
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With sure motions, he continued to massage the length of her back. She moaned as warmth
spread through her limbs. An unexpected craving hit her middle. Not one for food but for his
touch. His caresses provoked something delicious deep inside her center. Nothing had ever felt
so good. She moaned arching into his hard body.
His breath quickened, exciting her all the more. Deep brown eyes darkened as she watched.
Thick lashes lowered to shield his gaze.
Moistening her lips, she regarded his mouth. She’d never noticed a man’s lips before. For
decades she’d gotten used to cruel slurs being hurled from between them but Malin’s… Well,
just the sight of his made her toes curl.
A rush of liquid heat wet her pussy. She gasped at the pleasant feelings he caused. She ached
to arch her body along his. To rub herself against his hard muscles. Her breasts swelled, her
nipples tingled delightfully.
His head lowered ever so slightly.
Olivia closed her eyes in wonder. “Oh yes, Master.” Kiss me.
He eased back. “We’ll have a quick dinner, then we need to think about taking you back to
the hospital.” After a final caress of his hand, he tried to pull away.
“Oh no…” Very much enjoying the position they were in, she kept her grip on his shoulder.
“I’m fine. Only hungry.” Hungry for things she couldn’t understand. What was it about Malin
that heated her body so? Caused such a longing for fulfillment?
“Let me see what’s taking room service so long.” His voice dragged across her nerve
endings.
Olivia eased her hold, her hands sliding in place to grasp his wide shoulders. Their mouths
came dangerously close. His breathing turned rough, causing a sweet sensation in her nether
regions.
Heat spread up from her breasts.
She watched as his eyes went nearly black, as his nostrils flared. His body was so hard
against hers. Her clit tingled.
A faint knock sounded.
Malin cleared his throat. “Sounds like dinner.”
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Olivia’s stomach growled loudly while she followed Malin into his room. He pulled the door
open to take a cart from a young woman. He also passed her a slip of paper.
“Thank you.” The woman smiled before she left them.
Blinking rapidly, Olivia watched as a darken slipped inside the room before the door closed
completely. She hadn’t expected to see a spy so soon.
Malin continued on across to the little table beside the window. It was clear he couldn’t see
the half demon.
The darken slipped into the room that contained the bath. Olivia didn’t hesitate following
him. Once she shut the door behind her, she turned the water on to flow freely to muffle the
noise.
“You should’ve stayed with your assignment.” He folded his arms across a wide chest.
A shudder shook her bones. She’d been allowed no time. How was she going to be able to
help Malin with the darken around? Still, she needed details.
“He’s going to be suspicious if you stay in here too long.”
“Who are you?” Purposely, she kept her voice low.
The man’s face tightened. “Doesn’t matter.”
“It does, because you’ll be helping damn Malin.” She scooted close to the darken. Though
the half demons were known for their cruelty, they didn’t scare her the way the legion lords
always did. Demons wielded magic as well as power.
Black lashes lowered over an equally black gaze. “Sir Aston to the likes of you, slave.”
Her back stiffened. He was as much a slave as she. The only difference was she hadn’t
turned on the other lost souls. Heat stung her eyes. This was pointless. On their way to being a
demon, a darken had no conscience. He’d never consider helping her save Malin.
“You’re my accomplice.” Even with the threat of snakes hanging over her head, Olivia lifted
her chin. She took strength in her mum watching over her from Paradise. This was Olivia’s
chance to prove she wasn’t all bad. “To meet this timeframe we’re under, I need to be let in on
the plan.”
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A knock sounded on the door. “Olivia, I’ve got you soda and juice out here.”
“Sounds lovely.”
“Save some water for the rest of the hotel guests.”
Surely, with as much water as the room released, there was a big reservoir. “I…I’ll be right
out”
“Sure.”
She held her breath while he moved away from the door. Olivia left the water on, and
stepped toward the darken. “I need something to go on.”
“You have less than a week to push your mark over the edge.”
“Why the rush?” She frowned, not understanding the hurry.
“His obsession will be gone, and the opportunity to claim his soul lost.”
Olivia shook her head. “I don’t understand.”
“In a week’s time, the human monster Cross hunts will be where he belongs.” He sighed,
and leaned down to murmur into her ear. “Fate will offer our Prince no other opportunity to own
his soul. Cross will never approach the edge of darkness again.”
She sucked in a breath.
“We all have pivotal moments that plot our destiny.” He arched a brow. “Now, you
understand?”
“How am I supposed…?” She swallowed. “Supposed to push him over the edge?”
“Manipulate him with soft words and sex.” A tic started beating in his cheek. “Do what
women do best…be conniving.”
Oh, she itched to slap the darken’s face. She didn’t like his insulting tone. She didn’t like
anything the man had had to say. Sex was for pigs and demons. And she wasn’t conniving.
Whatever that might be. “I need more than that to go on.”
“Obviously you need it spelled out for you.” At his look of disgust, she itched to slap him
again. “He’s considering taking a human’s life out of hate and anger. Encourage him to do so.”
Oh, no… She worried her lip. She knew first hand Malin could never be redeemed for such
a deed. “Why does the Prince want Malin? There are so many bad…”
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“Our Prince prefers to hunt for souls who offer him a challenge in the claiming. He likes
collecting the souls which aren’t necessarily his.” He shrugged. “There’s no thrill for him in
those he knows he’s been promised.”
She supposed so. After all, there was no place other than Netherworld for those human
monsters.
With shaking hands, she turned the water off. Quietly, she left the darken. Yes, she
understood more. Not everything, but now she had more to work with.
Determined, she confirmed her decision. She’d made a very bad mistake, made a poor life
choice. One that had cost her dearly. But Malin didn’t have to pay the price.
She wanted to make sure of that.
For over a hundred years she’d been paying for her mistake. Her sinful act. But to harm
Malin she risked an even more mortifying eternity. She risked being in cohorts with the evil
legion lords. A quiver raced along her nerves. Never, ever, would she take that step toward
becoming a darken.
In doing so she gambled shattering her mum’s love. No matter what her heart assured her,
Mum still loved her. The belief of her mum’s unconditional love had given her hope all this time.
The strength to accept her due. She’d not shame her mum any more then she already had in life.
No, she’d not defile that love. It was all she had left.
Malin fixed her with his brown gaze as he stood and waited for her to join him at the table.
He helped her sit, showing her more consideration than any other man ever had. Well, she’d met
several knights in Netherworld who remained true to the chivalry they’d once lived by. But this
was so very pleasant.
A sigh passed through her lips as she sat. The delicious aromas stirred her hunger once
more. Her stomach rumbled.
Once he sat, he flashed a half smile, causing her insides to melt. Her fingers twitched to
sweep the loose hair away from his forehead. She adored the slight curl of the short strands.
“Eat up.” He reached across the table and lifted the lid from her meal. “Dessert is waiting.”
“Stop gawking. And get down to business.” The darken, Aston, rudely interrupted her happy
reprieve.
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She refused to allow him to ruin this meal. Olivia licked her lips as she picked up the
quartered chicken. She took a huge bite. Flavors burst in her mouth. She moaned in bliss.
“You have utensils.” Aston sat on the corner of the bed.
Opening her eyes, she met Malin’s. Quickly, she set the piece of poultry down. Using her
fork, she took bite after delicious bite. She took little time to chew the meat, which was so
tender.
“Hogs have more manners,” Aston insulted her.
“Go away!” She glared where the half demon sat. All she wanted was to enjoy one meal.
Nails bit into her palm as she made a fist. She’d always been able to ignore more of the cruelty
tossed at her by demons… But darkens always got to her. They were no better than her, yet acted
like kings.
“Olivia, do you see someone else in this room?”
She turned around to face Malin. Oh no…
Malin stood and moved toward the corner of the bed.
Suddenly, the half demon stood up. With his weight gone, the mattress he’d been sitting on
straightened out.
“Yes, yes, I do.” She jumped up to stand beside him. “Do you?”
“I’ll not be punished for your failure.” Growling, Aston went back into the bathroom.
“No, I don’t.” Malin clasped her arm with a warm hand. “But, I’d bet my pension the bed
just settled.” He studied the room. “Have you ever encountered an entity before?”
“Oh, no. This is a first for me.” Relief rushed her breathing. Malin had seen proof of Aston’s
existence. Now would this hurt or harm her cause?
“Some studies show head injuries have caused psychic abilities.” A frown marred his
handsome face. “Do you still see it?”
She eyed the food. “No, we’re alone now.”
He released her, but remained standing.
Olivia settled into the chair again to devour the chicken. “Malin?”
“Yeah?” He was slow to join her.
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She leaned across the table as far as possible and whispered, “What or who are you obsessed
with?” Aston or no Aston. Snakes or no snakes. She was going to make her mum proud and help
Malin. It had to be so shameful for her mum to be in Paradise with her only child in
Netherworld.
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Chapter Three
Malin regarded the redhead who kept her gaze downcast in a submissive manner. She
continued to pick away at her meal.
My obsession. Her inquiry overrode the bizarre happening of the bed. He was able to set
aside the surrealness of what had just happened. Something very important had to be discovered.
How could she possibly know an obsession existed? But one did. James “The Slayer” Thayer
had ruled his world for some time now. For over a year, hunting the serial killer down had come
before his basic needs of food, sleep, and sex.
Twice now, the butcher had slipped out of the reach of the law. The last time the bastard had
gotten away, it’d become personal for Malin.
His jaw clenched.
Out of anger—at Malin’s relentless pursuit—The Slayer had murdered his longtime
neighbors. A family of four gone. A message in blood had been left behind for him specifically.
All because he’d been assigned to infiltrate Thayer’s cult compound after solid proof of the
man’s wrongdoings. Even today, it was as if the bastard was psychic and knew the agency’s
every move.
Nausea churned in his stomach. An entire family had been murdered because of his career.
“Malin?” A gentle touch on his hand got his attention.
Abruptly he stood to move away from the physical contact, the comfort she offered. There
was only one way for Olivia to know of his obsession… She knew The Slayer.
“Are you all right?” Beguiling eyes followed his every step.
Fuck no, I’m not. Four deaths he’d never get past. He’d give anything for a minute alone
with The Slayer. He’d put his Glock to good use.
He’d not be swayed by her innocent appeal or submissive ways a moment longer. Malin
compressed his mouth so he wouldn’t snap out in growing frustration. This opportunity had to be
used to learn what facts the murderer had shared.
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“Interesting question.” Appearing to relax, he took his chair once more. “I’m curious, where
did the notion come from?”
She spared a look toward the bathroom before captivating him with a look full of honesty.
“Why the…entity told me, of course.”
Of course, it had. Once again unsure of himself, he scrubbed his face before he pushed his
plate away.
The entity. Of all things for her to have stated.
Jesus.
“Are you not hungry?” She licked her full lips. Not waiting for his response, she replaced
her empty plate with his nearly full one.
“Huh?”
“I can’t bear to see this food go to waste.”
Malin blinked as she took a large bite of his remaining broiled chicken. The woman ate as if
she’d never had a bite to eat in her life. She used her fingers as much as she used the utensils.
“Oh…this is so good.” She licked her lips.
He grunted in agreement.
Time and again she licked her fingers. Each swipe of her tongue sent a jolt of lust south. His
right hand rested on his thigh, fingers twitching. How easy it’d be to stroke himself underneath
the table.
“Thank you for the tasty meal.”
He frowned as she scraped the plate clean with her fork and savored the last of the flavors.
He hoped she didn’t rush to the bathroom to vomit. With her perfect body type, managing her
diet with an eating disorder was a possibility.
She drained her juice glass. “You mentioned dessert?”
“Dessert?” Malin repeated, unable to wrap his mind around the fact Olivia had eaten nearly
a whole chicken by herself. And now she wanted more.
She nodded expectantly.
“Yes, cherry cobbler.” He lifted the remaining lid and passed her a slice. “I wasn’t sure what
you’d prefer.” So he’d ordered one of his favorites.
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Olivia sniffed the dish before taking her first taste. She moaned and chewed far slower than
she had during the meal. “This is delicious.”
Jesus, he’d never paid attention to a woman eating before. He liked the way she held her
fork. Her lips closed over another bite. Eyes closed she pulled the fork away clean and savored
the morsel.
His rigid cock pulsed. Need weighed heavy in his balls.
She licked her lips.
A groan rumbled in his chest. What would her tongue and lips feel like against his skin?
Around his cock?
In a haze of lust he took pleasure in watching her finish the dessert. Once she was finished,
he offered her his saucer. “Would you like mine?”
“Oh, no…” She sat back to rub her stomach. “I may burst at any moment.” Malin enjoyed
her happy expression. “Master?”
His balls tightened in need. Jesus, how long had he wanted a woman to refer to him as
Master? She used the word with such ease. As if she already fit into the lifestyle of dominance
and submission. He arched a brow.
“You’ve not answered my question yet.”
Damn me, if I’d not forgotten. What about this woman got his guard down? How had she
been able to distract him? Hell, sex he could understand distracting him, but not simply watching
her eat. Nor her company.
“Who is your obsession?”
“James ‘The Slayer’ Thayer.” Carefully, he watched for a response.
Only puzzlement crossed her expressive features. Only concern settled in her deep dark
gaze. “He’s a very bad man?”
“He lacks a soul. Lacks a conscience and has inability to show compassion for others.” In
case she was one of The Slayer’s minions, he laid the facts out there. How much the woman
knew of Thayer would depend on how much control the monster had over her. Some were
blinded by those they served.
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“He’ll fit in where he’s going.” A shiver wracked her body. “The Prince will more than
likely offer him a legion to lord over.”
There was no time to respond to her peculiar comments. She stood up and came around to
his side of the table. She pulled the dress up and off to let it drop to the floor. “Do you find me
womanly enough for your taste?”
Voluptuous
breasts stood out for his lecherous gaze. Sweat beaded his palms at the
temptation within his reach.
Sweet Jesus.
Woman enough?
Was she kidding?
“If you find me pleasing I want to fulfill your every fantasy…”
My every fantasy.
In his life, he’d never been solicited by such promise of ecstasy, and he’d had his share of
women. Arousal coiled hot in his groin.
Her nipples puckered as if begging for his attention. Slowly he allowed his gaze to explore
up to her flushed chest and neck. With dilated pupils, she waited.
Already breathing heavily, he could barely think past the growing need to claim every
supple inch of her.
Before you stands the perfect submissive.
She’ll willingly and consensually cede control and authority to you.
She’ll yield to any wish, any treatment.
Malin shook his head to clear it of the voice.
Take this opportunity to mold her to your will.
Dominate her, take responsibility for control and for making the conscious decisions.
He closed his eyes to void his mind of the persuading taunts.
Sweat beaded his brow. His palms. His chest. He’d be content with partial control. He’d
figured out a long time ago no soul mate existed for him. No submissive would ever willingly
hand over her mind, body and soul to him. He’d learned much of what went on in the lifestyle
was play.
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Occasionally, he’d fantasized about a lifelong commitment… He should take this time with
Olivia. Experience what she offered so willingly.
Yes, take what she offers and more…
Again, he tried to clear his mind of the inner voice. It wasn’t his.
Safe. Sane. And consensual. The golden rule of any BDSM relationship. And this situation
was neither safe, sane nor consensual.
He knew nothing of Olivia, making her anything but safe. She could be an actress playing a
part. A part Thayer paid for. At the moment, he felt less sane when he’d considered her talk of
the entity. Could someone recovering from an accident consensually agree to sex with a
stranger?
Still, he was a man with the possibly of getting past his conscience to screw her senseless.
His cock heavy, he swallowed, eyeing her firm breasts.
As if reading his mind she lifted her breasts and squeezed them.
He swallowed, his mouth dry.
With a sway of her hips she walked forward to stand within his reach. Her nipples stood out
fully extended.
Groaning, he leaned over, his tongue darting out to taste one of her nipples.
His cell rang, causing them both to jerk.
Regretfully, he blew out a breath. Only a dog would even consider her offer.
Walking away from her, he gave thanks for the interruption.
Olivia wanted to weep, but she didn’t. Instead, she moved to stand on the other side of the
door. Malin had disappeared into the bathing room.
That hadn’t gone as she’d expected at all. He was supposed to have wanted to fuck her. And
now she couldn’t hear what Malin was saying.
“Can you not be the least bit seductive?” Aston put his back against the nearby wall.
“Eww…” She cast the darken a look. “Can you not go away?” She’d been as seductive as
the next woman. Her lower lip quivered, and she stilled it. No time for emotions now. Her plan
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had been to seduce Malin and keep him in bed until he was safe, but apparently he didn’t want
her the way the demon lord had guessed. Though she was sure Malin had been affected by her
nudity.
Oh well, on to another plan. Her mum had always told her she was a crafty girl. Quickly, she
rushed back to her dress and slipped it on.
With determined strides, she headed for the door that led outside.
Unfortunately, the half demon followed. “What are you doing?”
“I’m off to find James ‘The Slayer’ Thayer.” She jabbed at the buttons as she’d watched
Malin do on their trip upstairs.
Aston groaned, “You can’t find him.”
She lifted her chin. “Oh, yes, I will.”
“How?” Aston followed her into the box.
“I’ll ask others until I do.”
An animalistic sound rumbled from the darken. She ignored him and left the small enclosure
once they arrived in the lobby where she and Malin had entered earlier.
She frowned while she watched people. Unease made the fine hair on her forearms stand up
on end. Surely the man Malin was after wouldn’t be hard to find. If he was like all the evil souls
she’d encountered in Netherworld, he’d probably be out and about bragging about all his terrible
deeds.
At the desk, she waited until the people behind it were free. A beautiful, dark-skinned
woman smiled at her. “How can I help you this evening?”
Olivia folded her arms along the countertop. “I’m looking for a James ‘The Slayer’ Thayer.
Can you help me locate him?”
The beautiful woman grew alarmingly pale. And looked around, for who or what, Olivia
didn’t know.
“You’re the biggest idiot I’ve ever had to deal with.” Aston shoved his way into her mind.
Eww… Olivia turned to face the half demon. “Why don’t you go away?”
The woman behind the counter sputtered.
Aston latched onto her arm. “Come on. We’ve got to get out of here.”
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“Why?” She tried to stall, only to stumble at the sight of a very large man making his way
through the passersby toward them. The advancing stranger had to be taller than Malin and
Aston by a head and more.
Again she regarded the advancing stranger. A very large man decked out with an assortment
of weapons. “Oh wait, what if he’s Thayer?”
“He’s not.” Aston ushered her toward the boxes. “And use what’s left of your mind to speak
to me.”
They stepped into an empty one.
“Oh…How do you know he’s not the man Malin’s after?” With all the weapons he’d been
armed with it, was a logical guess.
The lift’s doors closed.
Aston hit a button. “He’s a guardian of the living.”
Olivia gasped as the very large man with the weapons managed to walk through the closed
doors. “A guardian of the living…would make you an angel.” Her mum had often told her stories
of angels coming to save the day. If someone was capable of coming to Malin’s rescue…it was
an angel.
“Angel?” Disgust curled the man’s lip. “What are you two about? Can’t remember the likes
of you two fraternizing together before.” The guardian pulled out a short sword and pressed the
tip to Aston’s throat. “You, halfling, I’m tempted to send back to Netherworld.”
“Oh…could you please?” She clasped her hands together. “I’d be ever so grateful.” Yes,
saving Malin would be much easier without the darken around.
Both men looked at her as if she’d done something wrong.
“Well, you’re the one who wanted to send him back to Netherworld.” She folded her arms.
“I simply agreed.” No sin in agreeing. Well, not really.
Silently, the guardian lowered his sword and put it away. “This’ll be the last time I ask…”
He then pushed another button causing the box they were in to stop. “What are you two about?”
“I need to find James ‘The Slayer’ Thayer.”
The angel snorted, annoying Olivia. He faced Aston. “And you, halfling?”
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Aston remained quiet, annoying her even more. “He’s to ensure I condemn Malin Cross.”
There, now the angel would have to send the darken back to Netherworld.
Instead, the large man looked baffled.
“Who are you?” It was always best to know who you dealt with.
“Scorpio Quintus.”
“Scorpio Quintus, can you help me find James ‘The Slayer’ Thayer?”
“No.” The angel’s face tightened. “He’s under my care.”
“Under your bloody care?” Her face heated with the rush of anger. How completely wrong
was this? Someone dubbed “The Slayer” was under the protection of goodness.
“Olivia…” Aston warned.
She ignored the darken. “You’re a pig to be watching over the likes of him.”
“While living, everyone gets a guardian.” Scorpio shrugged a shoulder. “That’s just how it
works.”
And just where had hers been? She sure could have used a little help when she’d been alive.
“How what works? You have to know where Thayer is going.”
“I’m only a sentinel against demons.” His mouth twisted. “And halflings. I can’t intervene
where humans are concerned otherwise.”
“Malin Cross, he has a guardian?”
Scorpio nodded, but before he could respond further, the stench of sulfur gagged Olivia.
Oh, no…
A vicious demon lord now stood with its back to her blocking the view of the guardian. Her
mouth dried out, forcing her to swallow for moisture. From the back, she couldn’t tell which
ugly monster now attacked the sentinel. There was little room for the two combatants to fight.
The angel grunted as if in pain. Unimaginable horrors awaited the guardian in Netherworld.
No doubt the legion lords would enjoy being harder on him than a lost soul.
She gasped as Aston got into the fray. He came away with a dagger. Panicked, thinking the
worst, she stepped toward the darken. But instead of coming to the aid of the legion lord, Aston
thrust the dagger into the exposed base of the skull of the demon.
She screamed, knowing what was in store for them now.
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Olivia hadn’t been wrong. She and Aston were in a world of hurt. Netherworld. The
darken’s actions had gotten them both sent home. The vile stench of the place suffocated her
with each breath.
At the angry roar, she stumbled to her feet.
None other than the Dark Prince approached with his ever-present mistress, Sienna, in tow.
Unlike Olivia, the collared slave showed composure.
Just a few feet away, the Prince stopped. “You, darken, have disappointed me.”
Aston remained on his knees.
“You’ll pay dearly for betraying me and mine.” With his free hand, Satan pulled Aston up
by his hair.
“Phillip, you did the right thing.” Complete silence ruled Netherworld at Sienna’s
declaration.
Too calmly, the Prince coiled Sienna’s leash around his fist. “Bring the guillotine.”
Olivia trembled as lost souls dragged the torturous device forward onto flat ground.
“Let’s start off with a thousand beheadings for you, Aston.” The Dark Prince turned and
pressed his lips to Sienna’s mouth. “And for you, my pet?”
Sienna whimpered.
“After the outburst, you shall only hear my voice.”
“No!” Aston took an aggressive step forward. “She’s done nothing wrong!”
Satan hit the darken in the center of his chest with a fire ball. Instantly, the man caught fire
and burned alive down to ash.
Olivia swayed with dizziness.
Sienna grabbed her ears. “Master!”
“Shh, pet.” The Prince caressed a tear stained cheek. “I’m here for you.”
“Phillip…” Satan’s mistress whispered, only to fall silent.
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Aston had revived, only to have his hands tied behind his back by a nearby darken. Another
darken forced his head down in place for the blade. Each cruel deed a darken performed brought
them that much closer to becoming demon.
Now both blind and deaf, Sienna missed the look Aston gave her. Olivia’s heart pounded for
the two. What was the chance a past existed between the two?
On a switch, the blade dropped for the first time and Olivia closed her eyes so she’d not
have to watch. She should have been nicer to Aston.
“Now you, slave.” The Dark Prince beckoned to her.
Shaking, Olivia took a step forward. “Yes, Master.”
“Are you prepared to complete your task?”
Oh, Mummy…
The sound of the blade falling again caused her to wince.
“Or do you need some persuading first?” He arched a perfect blond brow. “Some time in my
serpents’ pit, perhaps?” Seemingly out of nowhere, a snake appeared at Satan’s side. It rose up
on its tail to stand until the Prince rested his hand on its head.
Slithering, the creature moved toward Olivia to slide its soft body up hers. The snake circled
her neck.
Her knees knocked. As her breathing hitched her head swam with dizziness. She wanted to
die to escape the snake. But a death to a lost soul offered nothing more than everlasting torture.
The serpent’s tongue flicked her nipple. The same nipple Malin had so lovingly sampled.
Bile churned in her stomach. She wanted to die and never revive. How will I ever save Malin
from this place or this monster? She swallowed past a welling lump of emotion. “I’ll bring you
Malin, Master.” She agreed in order to avoid another moment of torment from the snake.
Satan nodded. “Good girl.”
Olivia blinked as the lift’s door opened to reveal a tight-lipped Malin. “You left.”
“I came back.” Desperate for time, she pressed her mouth to his. A groan rumbled under her
palms that she had placed on his chest. “Please don’t be angry with me.”
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Malin’s lips softened under hers. She gasped when his mouth opened and turned demanding.
His tongue explored her mouth to twirl and swirl around her dancing one. An unexpected and
rich longing scorched through her middle.
The kiss lingered.
Her breasts swelled to achy masses.
Pleasure soon centered in her pussy. She wanted to be consumed by what was happening
between her legs. She’d not known sexual pleasure existed. No, she’s known only abuse and
shame in her continued existence in Netherworld. But not now. Now there was no past. A past
where she’d learned to accept all things to protect her sanity. Now there was only desire and
something blissfully pleasant building at his closeness.
At his touch.
Olivia moaned. Her hips arched in excitement at the newly discovered carnal delight.
Malin rolled his hips forward, pressing his rigid cock into her stomach. She moaned, unable
to breathe properly. Unable to think clearly, she clutched at his steadying arms. As she grew
bolder with the kiss, she made swipe after swipe over his tongue.
Reveling in the delicious sensations, she sighed against his groan.
He was the one to break the kiss. “Olivia, let’s get back inside our suite.” His chest heaved
as he gulped air. “And out of public view.”
Two pairs waited to get into the boxes, and she hadn’t noticed.
“Yes, Master.”
An older woman gaped as if to say something. The bald man with her tugged her away. A
young woman was last to dash off.
Incredibly, Malin’s eyes darkened. “You’ve got to stop referring to me as Master.” He
clasped her hand and led her down the hallway.
“But you like it when I do.” Her fingers tightened on his rough ones. “I know you do. I can
feel it.”
“Yes, yes, I do.” A breath rushed through his nose. He released her hand when they stopped
at their door. “But the conduct is frowned upon by society.” He waved her in. “And I’m not your
dominant, nor your Master. Hell, this isn’t even a weekend scene we’ve agreed to.”
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“So, you need my agreement to be my Master?” Confusion warred with the possibility of
keeping him entertained. The demon lords wanted her to use sex to bring Malin’s downfall, but
maybe keeping him busy could save him as well.
“Most definitely.” He braced his hand on the wall. “But this is poor timing. I ran both your
picture and your prints. Olivia, our databases show you don’t exist.” He eased into her personal
space. “Hell, I even had co-workers check Interpol and NCIS, but nada. What do you think of
that?”
She gulped a breath in hopes of calming her speeding heartbeat. Malin didn’t look very
happy. She didn’t like being under his close scrutiny, especially when she wasn’t sure how to
respond. She did know one thing beyond a shadow of a doubt—she needed him to keep her with
him. “No one besides you is looking for me. This, I can swear on.” She reached out to rest her
hand over his heart. “All I had was my mum, and she’s long gone.”
“Christ.” He stepped away from her to turn his back. “Someone has to be looking for you.
Can you not remember anything of your past? Friends? Lovers? A cousin? The real name of the
Master you mentioned?”
“I have no one else.”
“I’m sorry about your mother.” He made his way over to the window.
“Don’t be. She’s in a better place.” A much better place. A world full of good things and
angels. Her forehead tightened as an inkling of an idea came to her. She remembered the
guardian angel from earlier.
“Malin, my only purpose here is to save you…from yourself.” Olivia wrapped her arms
around his waist. “I’m your guardian angel.” Ducking her head against his back, she hoped those
in Paradise wouldn’t send her back to Netherworld for the lie.
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Chapter Four
Malin extracted himself from Olivia’s clinging arms. No easy task, she was a hell of a lot
stronger than she looked, and she hung on for dear life. Once free, he put as much distance
between him and the delusional woman.
An angel.
He was in real trouble. How easily he could see his career slipping away. Oh, he’d survive.
He’d saved up some money. He could picture himself on a beach somewhere peddling T-shirts to
tourists in his future. But his career at the agency, the thrill of the hunt would be over.
How foolish of him to have removed her from the hospital. Even more foolish of him to
allow the growing attraction for her to muddle his thoughts. And to have permitted the
circumstances of their situation to influence his behavior…
He was a man second.
A professional first.
He’d allowed his roles to switch places, but no more.
“Olivia…”
“You don’t believe me?” Unsteadily, she took a step his way. “I can tell by the way you’re
looking at me you don’t.”
Jesus help me. He wanted to believe her. Wanted more than anything to toss caution aside
and enjoy what she offered.
“Olivia…” He waved to a chair. “Relax. And accept my apology. I’ve done you a disservice,
but I plan to make up for it.” He was damn grateful for the call back from Dr. Simmons. While
still at the hospital, through the chains of command, he’d left a message for her to get in touch
with him. Even before this declaration, Olivia had needed assistance he couldn’t provide.
Simmons was active both in psychology and parapsychology. Besides doing years of
counseling in private practice, the doctor had done classified work for the government. Simmons
was more than capable of helping Olivia.
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Instead of sitting, Olivia crossed the room to stand nearby. She pushed the drapes back,
revealing the floor to ceiling window. She turned her searching black eyes on him. “But you saw
the entity…how can you not believe me?”
He raked a hand through his hair.
The entity. Yeah, he’d seen something, but an entity?
Malin was far less believing of his own eyes than he’d been earlier. Sure, some suspected
ghosts existed. The government had special task forces for everything from ghosts to
extrasensory perception. Numerous agents, including Dr. Simmons, investigated the
unexplained. But Jesus, Olivia had declared herself a guardian angel…
My guardian angel.
Where had the notion come from? Mental illness? Drugs? Dementia? From a knock on her
head?
Jesus.
He’d hit Olivia with his car. He’d gone from wanting to help her to desiring her. How had
his feelings spiraled so completely out of his control?
He released a calming breath. “Olivia, I’ve someone coming by to see you.” He shoved his
hands into his pockets so he’d not reach out to her. He hated the panicked look that crossed her
beautiful face. “She’ll be able to help you in a way I can’t.”
She shook her head.
“If she feels you need to be in a hospital under a doctor’s care…” If not, he’d do his best to
care for her.
“No.”
“Dr. Simmons will know what’s best for you.”
“No.” For the first time, she angled her body away from him.
The action registered like a sucker punch. He practically smelled her fear. This unnerved
him.
“No doctors.”
“Olivia, please.” He didn’t want to cause her anxiety or any kind of grief but he had to get
her help.
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“I…I can prove it.” Olivia wrapped her arms around her middle, uncertainty clear in her
black eyes.
How was it possible for a gaze to be so deep, so dark, and still shine with emotion? A part of
him ached for her desperation. Part of him wanted to believe her if only to wipe the hopelessness
from her features.
“May tenth, eighteen hundred and eighty-eight.” She nodded. “That’s when I died. I grew up
in London’s East End. Ask me anything.”
Once again, Malin was unsure. More than anything, he had no desire to jeopardize her
mental well being. “Victorian England.”
“My mum died of cholera in the winter of eighteen hundred and eighty-seven.” She drew in
a steadying breath. “I had some rough times after Mum passed on.”
His brain seemed to shut down. Nothing on Victorian England came to him. Then, a fact hit
him, Jack the Ripper. He’d studied past serial killers. Today, Jack would’ve barely been a blip on
the evening news compared to the monsters that stalked unsuspecting victims every day.
Although now that he gave it more thought, the serial killer committed his killing spree after
Olivia’s timeframe.
Quietly, Malin lowered himself into one of the comfortable chairs in the corner. “Sit beside
me.”
Her reluctance was obvious as she eased into the spare chair.
“My English history is rusty, but I’m capable of having a discussion of the eighteen
hundreds if you want.”
“What?”
He reached over and clasped her wrist. With his thumb, he made soothing circles. “History.
Remember anthropology, culture, and history is taught in schools. Textiles. Would you like to
discuss what type of material a pretty lady—such as yourself—would’ve worn in Victorian
England?” Yes talk of clothes would kill some time. What woman didn’t like to talk about
clothes?
“I wasn’t a lady.” She pulled her hand away from his and stood up. “I was a servant for…
Oh, I don’t want to talk about this.”
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His heart rate accelerated while she put some personal distance between them.
“I…I made a mistake. I was confused.” With shaky hands, she brushed back her long hair.
“I’m so tired.”
Malin moved. Dammit, where was his brain? Of course, the woman was tired. She’d had a
long day. “Let me get you one of my T-shirts.” Whether she stayed with him or not, she’d need
some clothes of her own tomorrow.
Quickly, he collected one of his shirts and returned to where she now sat on the edge of the
bed. “Here you go. You can make do with this.”
Olivia hugged the T-shirt to her breasts. “Thank you.”
“You want a shower or bath before you rest?” He placed his hands deep in his pockets. “I’ve
already got soap in there.” Something else she’d probably want. There was nothing fancy about
what he had to offer her to use. Women preferred smell-good stuff. More items she’d need
tomorrow.
“Thank you, Master.” She nodded. “A warm bath would be pleasant.”
Stepping back, he allowed her to slip by.
At the bathroom door, she turned back. “Master?”
He gritted his teeth at the lust the title and the look she gave him stirred.
“I shouldn’t have lied. Played a silly game on you.” She clasped the wall. “I’m no guardian
angel…but if you’ll let me, I’d willingly be yours.” Then, she disappeared and closed the door.
Malin’s head fell back. The signals she gave him knocked him off balance. A moment ago,
she’d looked as sincere as she ever had. Even when she’d been playing “silly games” on him.
Jesus, help me.
I’m falling for a woman who just might be mentally unstable.
Malin gave up paying attention to the sports news when Olivia moaned again in her sleep
Demons tormented her while she slumbered. Maybe once she rested she’d recall something of
importance of her past.
“Please no.” Olivia rolled over, tangling the sheet around her legs. The covers had already
pooled on the floor from her lashing out.
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He’d never known anyone to sleep so poorly. Admittedly, besides college dorm mates, he
had few to compare her to. Over the years, he’d had few sleepovers with lovers. Traveling due to
his career hindered developing relationships and no one had intrigued him enough to make the
extra effort needed to offset his traveling.
Mouth watering at the delectable sight of her bared ass, he once more adjusted the sheet to
cover her up properly.
As much as he wanted to be, he was no perv. Now, if they were in a relationship, that’d be
another story. And he’d enjoy every eyeful he got. Still nothing could be done to stop the desire
she evoked. With his cock heavy, he settled back into the chair.
In quick succession, he flipped through some channels until he ran across an air racing
tournament. Now, there was a sport. Took some serious brass to race those souped-up planes
through towers. Serious brass.
During a commercial, he checked his watch. He’d expected Dr. Simmons to call again by
now. But, he’d often enough had something come up when it came to work. Since this was a
freebie, she’d get here when she did.
“Snakes!” Olivia startled him from the chair. He drew his gun.
Fuck! He hadn’t expected that.
Sweat beaded his chest as he stared into her unseeing eyes. Olivia now sat up, clutching the
sheet. Could a night terror have a hold on her?
Holstering his gun, he eased onto the bed beside her and brought her back against him.
“Hey, you’re safe.” Yes, he’d make sure she stayed safe.
After a few heartbeats, she relaxed. Her scent kindled his arousal.
Rather than leave her as he should, he continued to cradle her protectively. Caressing her
hair, he grew drowsy. Malin shifted down on the bed to get more comfortable.
“The snakes.” Olivia burrowed closer to him. “They’ll find me.”
“Shh, hey.” He rubbed her back. “They’re no snakes around here.” She must have one
serious phobia of the reptiles.
“Malin?” Olivia lifted her head to peer around the room, then down at him.
“Yes.”
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“I hate the snakes.” She rested her head back on his shoulder and wrapped her body around
his.
For calmness, as well as to fight off the desire for her, he drew in a deep breath and exhaled
slowly.
She wiggled closer, pressing her breasts against his chest.
“You’re not alone in your dislike of snakes.” He rubbed his chin along the top of her head.
He held her close, one hand clasped her wrist. His thumb massaged circles over her soft skin.
This closeness was something new. Something he could possibly get used to if given the
chance.
You should go back to the chair.
He ignored the sane part of his brain. Instead, he dozed off with Olivia in his arms.
Olivia squirmed in his embrace. Unwilling to release her, he groaned.
“Master, you’re going off.”
“Huh?” He eased up as far as their bodies allowed.
The cell jarred him to alertness.
Snatching it from where he wore it, he flipped it open. “Cross here.”
“Malin…”
“Yes, sir.” He recognized the undertone from his boss.
“Dr. Simmons is dead.”
“No.” He managed to get himself free from Olivia and stand.
Oh, Jesus.
“It’s bad, Malin. It’s a warning from Thayer…”
Oh, Jesus.
Please not another warning.
“You sure?” Copycats existed. And The Slayer had already made fans…
“The bastard took her head as a trophy.”
Bile rose up his throat.
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“What is wrong?” Olivia reached out to him, but he caught her hand. He had to keep her
from touching him. He had to keep it together.
He was a man second.
A professional first.
“Her assistant said Simmons was coming to see you.”
“Yes. We’d spoken earlier.” An ache knotted in his chest. Why hadn’t he called her to
confirm? Jesus. He should’ve. His chest heaved on a breath. “It’s a long story. She was coming
here to meet with me on a personal matter.”
“I’ll need a full report.”
“Of course.”
“Master?”
Malin tightened his hold in an attempt to keep her still. “Jay’s been informed of where I am.
I had an accident this afternoon…”
“Thayer?”
A chill crawled up his spine. Thayer…the only way the monster could know of his
meeting… No, he shook off the possibility. It wasn’t Olivia. He knew that much. But it was
worse. Far worse. “No. Look talk to Jay. I’m dumping my phone. I’ll be in touch.” He ended the
call and turned the power off. Long strides carried him into the bathroom.
Fuck. How had the bastard managed to get so close? Another life had been taken because of
him. And a madman he hunted still. He was as responsible for Simmons being killed as Thayer.
Malin should’ve taken the bastard out when he’d had the chance.
Six…seventeen known deaths turned Thayer’s hands red. Blackened his soul.
Nausea turned in his stomach.
Another death he should have prevented.
Next time, he wouldn’t falter. Wouldn’t count on the judicial law.
“Master.”
Unbuttoning his shirt, he splashed cold water on his face and neck. The sick feeling boiling
up didn’t ease. His hands shook as he used the towel to dry off.
Jesus. Simmons had been coming to meet him. To help Olivia.
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“What is wrong?” She touched him on the upper arm. “What has happened?”
I got someone else killed.
I got someone else killed.
I got someone else killed.
He swallowed hard. “We need to get out of here soon. Our location has been compromised.”
He made a rough sound. Who was he fooling? They were as safe here as anywhere. If Thayer
wanted him dead he’d have died a long time ago. Jesus, the man had killed his neighbors.
Thayer lived by no laws. No rules. And the resources at his disposal.
Unsure of what was best for Olivia, with a shaky hand he raked his hair back. He’d taken
her to one of the safe houses the agency used in the city.
Should he take Olivia to his home now? It was a fact. Thayer already knew of his home.
He’d refused to run. Even if he had, it’d have been easy to be found again. After all, unlike
Thayer, he wasn’t on the run. Nor was Malin a master of disguises.
“I do not understand.” She began buttoning his shirt, “I thought you had someone coming
here. To meet us.”
Malin stilled her hands. “Dr. Simmons has been murdered by…” His jaw clenched. “My
obsession.” The words alone condemned him.
“Oh… I’m so sorry, Master.” Shaking his hands off, she moved closer. She grasped his face
in her hands. “But you must believe me. Whatever happened, fate willed it. Only the Almighty
can step in the way of fate.”
He groaned. If he hadn’t called Simmons in for a favor, she’d still be alive. That had nothing
to do with the Almighty.
“Everything in life has a purpose, a reason for happening.” Gently, she pressed her mouth to
his. “You must believe me.” Again a light brush of her lips. “You’re not to blame.” Another kiss.
“You’re not to blame.” Yet another one lingered. “You’re a good man.”
You’re not to blame.
Jesus, how he wanted to believe that.
Trembling with a need he didn’t want to hold back, he wrapped his arms around her.
She moaned into his hungry mouth. Tongues teased one another.
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On a gulp of air, he sought control. “Olivia…”
“Let me save you.” Tangling her fingers in his hair she urged his head back down so she
could reach his lips.
He pressed forward into the softness of her stomach. He wanted this reaffirmation that he
was still living. And that maybe, just maybe, she could save him.
Malin watched Olivia lift the shirt over her head and let it drop at their feet.
He swallowed. Waves of her red hair fell around her shoulders and breasts. Nipples the color
of strawberries stood out for attention.
Malin had always enjoyed a sweet strawberry.
Sex. She was offering him a mind-numbing reprieve from reality. He wanted to steal the
moment. He wanted Olivia.
“You sure about this?” He rested his forehead on hers.
Her palms warmed him as she cradled his face. “Oh, yes…”
At the brush of her lips, he shrugged out of his holster and reached behind him to hang it on
the door. He missed twice, but stayed with the kiss.
She tasted good. Warm. Willing. Enthusiastic. He groaned at the feel of her caressing hands
on his chest. One by one, the buttons on his shirt came undone.
His thrust his rigid cock against her, before breaking the kiss.
Olivia laughed softly when he finally had to step away from her to hang the holster up.
Hungrily, he claimed her month. This time, he deepened the kiss, demanded more from her
playing tongue. Wildly, she ran her hands over him until need for release drew up his balls.
Condom.
Wallet. He managed to collect the one he kept in his wallet and toss his wallet on the
countertop. Olivia moaned and clasped his face in her hands, while he undid his pants. Shoes
were kicked aside. He took a few seconds away from her sucking lips to remove his clothes.
Olivia reached for his cock but he stopped her.
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Oh no, you don’t. He was too close to the edge as it was. He wanted this to be as good for
her as it was for him.
He placed a wet kiss on her palm, before sliding a hand down her stomach. She gasped into
his mouth when he discovered her wet to his touch. He concentrated on her clit.
The pleasure sounds she made got him hotter. He wanted to see her come. Hear her come.
Be the one to make her come.
He worked her clit faster and groaned.
His fingers grew moist from her wet pussy.
Olivia broke the kiss to cry out when her body tensed along his.
Malin held her close and reveled in her climax. He continued to press upon her clit until her
muscles relaxed.
Black eyes blinked open. “Hmm…Master.” A flush covered her face and breasts.
With his teeth, he tore open the condom. The foil was dropped to the floor and he rolled the
condom down over his cock.
Damn if his hands didn’t shake.
Kissing Olivia, he sat her on the counter. He settled between her spread thighs and eased her
ass to the edge of the counter. The height in the position was off, but they’d make do.
She leaned back some as their mouths clung to one another. Their tongues teased one
another’s. Their lips sucked from time to time as teeth nibbled at each other’s lips. He rubbed his
cock against her wet slit.
The roll of her hips made him crazy with lust.
Malin got his hips into position and thrust inside her in one deep movement. He groaned at
the tight fit.
Olivia gasped.
He stilled at the tensing in her body, the tightness of her pussy. He held his breath. His head
buzzed with the impossibility.
She couldn’t have been…
Surely she’d have said something…
Olivia’s tensed body clutched at him. Nails bit into his shoulders.
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Forcing his eyes open, he looked down at her scrunched up face.
He shuddered.
Oh, Jesus.
“Hang on to me.” He tightened his hold on her.
“What?”
“I’m going to make this better for you.”
“Oh…” she gasped as he lifted her up. He made sure to stay buried within her grasping hole.
On the bed, he laid her back and followed. He rested on a forearm. Her feet ran along his
legs. “I’m fine, Master.”
“You let me know when you’re comfortable.” Trying to think past the need for release, he
kissed her.
“I’m ready.” Olivia ran fingers through his hair, over his shoulders.
Still, he didn’t move his hips. Not an inch. Silken walls clenched around his length.
Instead, he slipped his hand between them and located her clit. With only one goal in mind
he set about revving her up again. He wanted her hot. Needed her hungry for his cock. For him.
It didn’t take long for him to note a growing wetness on his fingers. Her clit swelled under
his demanding fingers.
At the first roll of her hips, he groaned.
He dropped his head down beside hers. Damn, what a tight pussy.
Soon she squirmed at his touch.
Olivia’s panting breath beat against him when she turned her head to place kisses on his
neck and shoulder.
Unable to take any more, he thrust his hips forward on a short stroke.
A moan rushed in his ear.
“Olivia?”
“Master…”
Oh, Jesus. He was done for.
Positioning himself over her, he pulled slightly away only to plunge back in.
Out he pulled to push hard and deep.
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Clutching at his shoulders, she rocked her hips up to meet his thrusts.
Head buzzing with need, he groaned and worked his cock faster. Sweat coated his chest
while he pounded his cock deep. With eager hands and clinging thighs, she urged him to fuck her
harder still.
A moan tore past Olivia’s lips as she rocked her hips wildly.
Malin shook by the time her body tensed under his in climax. On a final drive of his cock, he
came hard. His body arched and jerked in release.
Chest heaving, he rolled off her. She followed to rest her head on his shoulder.
He pulled the condom off to drop it beside the bed. Damn, all he wanted to do was sleep.
But he couldn’t. Time to face reality.
“You’ve got time for a quick bath.” He forced himself to move and sit on the edge of the
bed. “Then we need to get out of here. Olivia?”
“Hmm.” The bed shifted behind him.
“You should’ve told me.”
“Told you what?”
Malin looked back over his shoulder. She looked sincere, which unnerved him even more.
“That you were a virgin.”
“Oh.” She didn’t blink. “Would have you not fucked me then?”
“Probably not.” How did one walk away from a virgin? He’d never been with one before,
and had always assumed that one came with a relationship. At least in his opinion.
“I’m glad I didn’t then.”
Something unfamiliar to him stirred in his chest. Truth was, he was glad she hadn’t told him
either.
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Chapter Five
Olivia splashed warm water while she washed off. What a luxury. She’d never fancied
herself soaking in soothing water. Not even while living had she known the delights of a tub.
Between the pleasure Malin had given her and the bath, she wanted to sleep. Preferably in
his arms.
She sighed, her body still tingling in satisfaction. Malin had shown her an amazing place
where the thoughtless world of bliss did exist. She’d never understood the appeal of sex before.
Within a decade of her arrival in Netherworld, she’d learned to accept all things done to her.
These days, she spread her legs without anguish at what was to come.
No wonder men and demons always wanted to fuck. Malin had fucked her, and it’d been oh-
so-pleasant. She’d eagerly do it over and over again. With him.
Sex with Malin had brought her little discomfort and not a single inkling of shame or
degradation. Even knowing it was her due in Netherworld it’d been hard adjusting to the abuse.
How could sex be so good with Malin and so horrid every other time? She hadn’t had to pretend
it wasn’t so bad like she always had to with darkens. Or escape to childhood memories like she’d
learned to do when a demon took her…
With Malin she hadn’t wanted the sharing of their bodies to end.
She’d wanted him to stay deep within her forever.
“How ya doing?” Malin cast her in shadows from where he stood above the tub. He
crouched down.
“Oh, very well.” Liquid heat rushed to her nether regions. “Um…very well.”
His brown eyes darkened. “You ready to get out of here? I have to meet someone downstairs
in a few minutes.”
“Oh.” She stood, sending water everywhere.
He looked down at his shoes as he shook the water from them.
“Oh, Master….”
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“That’s all right.” His mouth curled up. The look did remarkable things to her middle. He
was truly a handsome man. “Here, let’s get you dry.”
Olivia stepped out of the bath to be engulfed in a towel. The material was nice but not as
nice as his hands felt. With each pass of cloth, she yearned deeply for another chance at passion.
He knelt and rubbed away the water from her legs and feet.
Lastly, he dried the ends of her hair.
She moaned. For these heartbeats at least, she felt cherished. Could anything be sweeter?
Straightening, he stood before her. Oh, how she wanted to see him naked once more.
Besides being tall, he was broad, but not too broad. And he was muscular, but not overly
powerful in size compared to many of the men in Netherworld.
Malin was perfect.
Olivia’s mouth watered at the change in his breathing.
“Olivia…” His rough fingers caressed her cheek. “You tempt me.”
She leaned in, only to have him grasp her upper arms.
Malin rested his forehead against hers. “As much as I’d like to stay here and forget about the
world, I need to take care of some business.” Strong arms went around her as he stood tall.
Wholeheartedly she returned the embrace.
Oh, Mummy, you’ve got to help me save him.
His hand slid up along her side, her breast, to her throat and along her neck. He tilted her
head back. Eyes closed, his warm lips brushed hers.
She moaned at the simple kiss.
He stepped back to hand over her dress she’d laid on the counter. Then he left her.
Quickly, she used the towel to dry her hair. She then slipped into the dress and put shoes on.
Just outside the bathroom, Malin waited. “All set?”
She spared the room a final glance. This hotel would be forever special. It was so clean
compared to what she was used to.
Brown eyes met hers.
Best of all they’d had sex on that bed.
“Come on. Let’s get out of here.” He opened the door.
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In the hallway, a chill skidding along her spine caused her to stumble in the heels.
“You all right?” Malin wrapped an arm around her waist.
Helplessly, she cringed. A vile stink stung her nose. Not a smell anyone could forget.
Sickness and sulfur hung in the air.
Across the hall stood a demon lord. One she couldn’t name but would never forget. There
were so many of them to avoid.
Red fire burned in its eyes. The demon’s head was grotesque. Three times too big for its
body. How did it stay upright?
The beast slashed its mouth in what might be considered a smile. Jagged yellow teeth
showed through the hairy face.
Worst of all its massive cock stood straight out at a frightening length.
“Slave, you’re making us proud.” The monster pushed into her mind.
“Olivia?”
She wanted to escape.
“You fucked him and enjoyed every stroke.” It smiled again. “I do so hope I get the same
response when you return home.”
Home.
Oh, Mummy…
Netherworld did await her return. It was so foolish to even wish otherwise. Instead, she’d
use her energy on another course. Something that might be useful.
“You’ve managed to sweeten the experience for us.”
“What?” She didn’t understand the beast.
“Cross has a growing affection for you. So, when you leave him, you’ll cause him pain.” A
full smile twisted the ugly mouth.
Her breath caught, knowing how much the demons enjoyed others emotions. Especially
pain. Was it possible? Malin cared for her? Tears burned the back of her eyes and she blinked as
realization nearly buckled her knees.
No. No. No.
What if that pain, pain she caused, drove him after his obsession?
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She didn’t like the idea of being the cause of his pain. But by far worse she hated the idea
that she might fail him in the end. Might inadvertently drive him after the Slayer when she was
forced back to Netherworld. After all, it was only a matter of time before she had to leave him.
Shaken she balled her hands up in growing distress. She’d been played like a mark.
The demon’s snicker rattled her mind along with her nerves.
Malin squeezed her arm. “What is it you see?”
With her heart pounding in her throat, she scrunched her eyes closed in prayer. “Scorpio
Quintus! Scorpio Quintus! Please. Please. Please.” She wouldn’t give up so easily on Malin’s
soul. She couldn’t be a part of his damnation. There had to be way…
Shrilly, the demon screamed in fury.
Olivia gaped at the guardian angel advancing on the legion lord with a dagger in each hand.
The demon lord never had a chance. Scorpio shoved his daggers into the beast’s middle and
forced the blades upward. The legion lord disappeared in a burst of dust.
She wanted to weep.
Maybe with the angel’s help, Malin’s soul was savable. At least keep the demons and
darkens away.
Scorpio faced her. “You’re making my job easy. The halfling?”
“He’s paying dearly.” Even now she found Aston’s actions surprising.
“Give him my thanks.” He shook his head. “It’s a bitch to owe someone damned.”
Yes, she supposed it was.
After a clap of his hands, Scorpio disappeared.
“Olivia?”
“Wait.” She stood her ground. “I need a promise from you.”
“What is it?” Curiosity gleamed in Malin’s brown gaze.
“I need you to remember a name.”
“You remember someone?”
“Yes.” She nodded. “I do. And you have to promise me…” She clutched at his hand.
“Sure.”
“If anything happens to me you’re to call for Scorpio Quintus.”
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“Hey, lady, nothing is going to happen to you.” His thumb rubbed over her knuckles.
“Malin, I want your promise.” This was important. She’d have his word. “If anything…even
if I suddenly disappear.”
A frown marred his brow. “Olivia…”
“You word.”
“Sure.” He caught her cheek in his rough hand. “Calm down, okay? Nothing‘s going to
happen to you.”
“Scorpio Quintus. I need to know you won’t forget his name.”
“Scorpio Quintus.” He smiled as if amused by her. “Got it. I’ve a pretty good memory.”
Scorpio will help him. Muscles relaxing, she sighed. Now when her time was up here, she’d
be able to cope. The guardian angel’s protection was the reassurance she needed.
As expected, Jay waited beside Malin’s car in the parking garage. He’d spoken to his partner
while Olivia had bathed.
At Jay’s side, Malin nodded. “Thanks.” He handed Jay, one of his closest friends, the cell
phone. Malin worked with a good team, but he and Jay’d gone through Quantico together. Those
were the days…
Jay passed him a new one. “Anytime. CeeCee’ll get right on it.” In a few clicks, CeeCee’d
know if anything hinky had been done to his phone.
“Olivia, this is a colleague of mine, Jay Koetter.” He placed his hand on the small of
Olivia’s s back. “Olivia Sutcliff.”
“Hello.”
Jay nodded. “Pleasure, ma’am.”
“You know where to find me.” Malin nodded to his friend.
“Store, pizza and home.” Jay stepped back. “I’ll be in touch.”
Malin opened the door for Olivia and helped her climb in. “Thank you, Master.”
Lust jolted through him before he closed the door.
“Shit, man.” Jay shook his head. “Does she have a sister I can run down?”
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Malin flipped him off and walked around to his side.
“You know I’m going to be expecting details. This S&M shit you’re into…”
Malin climbed inside, started the engine and rolled down the passenger window. “Don’t
hold your breath.” What he shared with Olivia would go no further. And, he was damn tired of
telling Jay he wasn’t into sadism or masochism. Hell, bondage didn’t even appeal to him. At
least, not much. Dominance and submission was what he craved. Control over a woman had
always turned his crank.
Jay laughed, and Malin backed out to drive away.
“You’re friends? You know him well?”
“I don’t believe anyone knows another well.” Malin exited the garage. “But I know him
enough to trust him. We’re friends.”
She rested her head back.
“You up for some shopping?” He stopped, waiting for the light to change. “I’d planned to
take you tomorrow, but it’s probably best to get it over with.” He released the brake to
accelerate. “If you’re up for it?”
“I’m well.” She rolled her head to look his way. “Whatever pleases you, Master.”
He grunted as his cock filled his pants.
Best to get the shopping out of the way since he hated going into stores.
Malin clicked the radio on. Percy Sledge’s “When a Man Loves a Woman” was playing. He
exhaled through his nose and listened to the lyrics. He’d always been a big fan of rhythm and
blues but maybe Olivia had another preference. “Want to pick something to listen to?” He
wanted to know her likes and dislikes.
“No. Whatever pleases you—” Her face glowed from time to time in the passing lights,
“—makes me happy.”
Instantly, his balls drew up as arousal stoked. Sweat beaded on his palms. Whatever pleases
you. Dominance and submission aspects that turned his crank. If she kept this up, he’d stay hard.
For her. The use of Master was getting to him. Jesus he could get used to having her around.
She had to be saying these things to get to him.
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Come on. Cut the paranoia crap out. After all, there was the slimmest of possibilities she’d
already been trained. Very well trained.
Malin lowered his window halfway for some fresh air. He needed to clear his mind. “I like
the old stuff best.”
“I once heard that Thomas Alva Edison had made a talking machine, but I never heard one.
Yours has a pleasant sound.”
“Thomas Edison?” He spared a glance her way. “As in the Thomas Edison?”
“Yes. He was an inventor. Do you not know him?”
“Ah…yeah, I know of Edison.” Who didn’t know of Thomas Edison?
Jesus. He’d never met a woman who could turn him on so damn fast. Or cool him down
even faster. Olivia couldn’t be good for his blood pressure.
Maybe she was a history buff. Or some science major. Seemed like strange small talk to
him. The reference to Edison continued to unnerve him until he pulled into a department store.
She wouldn’t find a killer dress like the one she wore but she’d be able to make do for now.
As the hour passed, his muscles tensed until he needed a drink. Olivia acted as if she’d never
gone shopping before. Was it possible for a woman to forget how to shop? Didn’t women thrive
on shopping?
The possibility was mind boggling.
From bras to jeans, Olivia couldn’t recall a single size she wore. Sorting through socks,
panties, pajamas and shoes took forever. Though he did enjoy helping her sort through panties as
much as he liked experiencing her joy.
“You are positive I need all these, Master?” Olivia held up a dozen bras.
He shrugged. “Sure.”
She smiled in thanks.
Maybe shopping wasn’t so bad. “Let’s get you some personal care products.”
At the checkout, he grabbed up a half dozen chocolate bars and placed them on the conveyor
belt. On second thought, he got another handful of bars. Olivia liked to indulge in food.
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Olivia figured Paradise must be a great deal like Earth. Surely the Afterworld had pizza and
chocolate. And pretty panties and bras that matched.
She sat cross-legged on Malin’s large bed. His home was nicer than the hotel had been.
Now, if he’d only hurry up in the shower. She wanted to fuck him on his bed. The mattress
was oh-so-comfortable. Much more so than the one at the hotel.
While she ate another slice of pizza, some animal adventurer named Jeff Corwin talked to
her about snakes from the television. She shook her head sadly when Jeff called the one he held
beautiful. It was clear that the man was mad.
Steam rushed out of the bathroom when Malin joined her. “Ah, I see you left me a slice.”
She eyed the pizza. “I left you half.” She smiled. “And chocolate too.”
“You have wrappers all over the bed.” The grin he flashed her way curled her toes and did
all kinds of delicious things to her lower region.
Heat spread up her face. She hadn’t left him half the candy.
Malin settled onto the bed, facing her. His hair was damp as was the spattering of hair that
covered his upper chest. A thin line of hair disappeared beneath the towel he wore.
“Olivia, I think we need to talk.” His erection stood out to press against the material of the
towel.
“I’d rather fuck.” Getting up on her knees, she showed off her new underwear. “Do you like
how these fit me, Master?” She ran her hands up along her belly.
He swallowed.
It was enough of an answer. Wanting nothing more than more intimacy with him, she
quickly unhooked the bra and let it drop to the bed. Next she wiggled out of the panties to lie
back on her elbows. She spread her legs wide.
Malin didn’t take his gaze from her splayed legs.
With one hand, she massaged her body until her fingers rested on her swollen clit.
“Jesus, Olivia.” He moved his gaze then. “Maybe you’re a closet dominant.”
Unsure what he meant, she stared at his hidden bulge.
“Are you?”
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She whimpered. All she wanted was for him to touch her. To give her another little piece of
paradise.
He caught her wrist, urging her closer to his side.
Face-to-face now their breath mingled before their mouths met.
“Even wrapped around your finger…” His lips were demanding. His tongue hungry until he
broke the kiss. “Remember I’m in charge.”
Warmth spread through her chest. “Oh yes, Master.” Her clit swelled. She’d gladly yield to
him anything.
“I say when.”
“Yes, yes.” Her breathing hitched. Now. Now. Desire curled hot in her middle.
Malin’s tongue swirled along her skin. “I say where.” Here. Right here. She wanted him
buried deep filling her up. She arched her hips in offering as her pussy walls clenched in need.
Her body ached for the magical splendor only he could bring about.
Olivia whimpered. Oh, please, please, now.
“I say what.” He kissed her throat, his lips lingering over her skin.
“Yes, yes, anything.” She wanted to scream and beg for more. Such a contrast from anything
in her past. This need to be fulfilled would drive her mad… While in life, in Netherworld she’d
been left cold and alone by anyone’s touch. For Malin she was a starved wanton. A wanton who
wanted to please, to satisfy. A woman who wanted to be pleased and satisfied.
A cry of longing burst past her parted lips. She panted, fervently clutching at him.
He groaned, hot against her skin.
She squirmed closer as a liquid heat swamped her senses. “Anything at all, Master.” Oh yes,
with Malin she’d do anything. She clutched at him, wanting it all.
Slowly, he worked his warm mouth down her body. Moaning, she rolled over onto her back.
“Spread your legs wide.”
Like a good submissive, she did as bid. Only now, now she wanted to please. No fear drove
her action. Only the consuming desire to please him existed now.
His lips sucked on her hip before traveling to her pussy.
Urgency arched her back. She wanted to beg, plead with him to hurry.
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Instead his teeth nipped her skin here and there as his wicked tongue soothed in its wake.
She gasped when he settled his face on her needy flesh. His tongue teased her clit and
delved into her hole until she moaned and panted.
Pure pleasure coiled hotly. Liquid fire threatened to consume every inch of her as his mouth
continued its blissful torment.
Desperate, she buried a hand in his short hair. Oh, his mouth feels so good. He felt so good.
How different sex was with him. Nothing could be as loving as his mouth on her center. Nothing.
And for her to have this chance to experience a bit of heaven.
Malin’s tongue dipped deeper.
Olivia whimpered and bucked in hopes of her release. She cried out when he went back to
flicking her clit. The burn of tears threatened.
Over and over, he teased her closer and closer to the edge of the abyss. She wanted to come
as much as she wanted to stay right there where bliss was promised with each swipe of his
tongue.
“Master.” A trembling set into her legs that she couldn’t control.
Her mind spun as tension built in her center.
When Malin finally sucked her clit into his mouth and latched on, she shattered on a cry.
Tiny convulsions tightened the muscles in her pussy.
Then, Malin was all over her and kissing her lips. The thick head of his cock entered her on
the first attempt. Ever so slowly, he inched his hard length inside.
He held back his strength for a few heartbeats before pulling out to thrust his body deep.
The fucking her gave her was hard and fast. His body grew slick as he pumped his ass to
grind his cock deep with each movement. She wanted him there forever.
Olivia moaned as the pleasure spiraled once more.
Malin grunted and strained to give her what she craved.
What she needed.
She raised her legs up and as far back as she could, so he could fuck her deeper.
A cry burst past her lips as he did just that. He pounded her, his cock faster with each thrust.
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The abyss neared. Pure bliss was within her grasp. “Oh, please…” She clutched at him,
urging him to fuck her harder.
He shifted, so with each slide in, his cock dragged across her clit.
Olivia’s climax rolled through her like an avalanche. So free. So wild. There was no
stopping the pleasure. She lay trembling after the little death faded away.
“Oh, Master… I love you fucking me.” She wrapped her arms tightly around his shoulders.
This time with him would be over far too soon.
He made a rough noise that sounded like amusement. “I can’t get enough either.” He eased
away, and she let him go.
How would she ever be able to cope back in Netherworld knowing something so incredible
existed? Knowing she’d been a part of him. Had shared something so beautiful with him?
Memories. She’d have these memories. With them she’d make do.
Staring into his brown eyes, she placed him alongside her mum in her heart. She’d treasure
this time together forever. Death had taught her forever did exist.
After a quick kiss Malin rolled over to remove something from his cock.
She frowned. “What is that?”
The look he gave her made her wish she hadn’t asked. It reminded her of the look he’d given
her in his carriage when they’d talked about Edison. “A condom. To prevent pregnancy and
disease.”
“Oh.” She couldn’t get pregnant because she was among the undead. And she didn’t think
she could get any earthbound diseases. “I can’t have babies.” Concern knotted under her breast.
“Are you ill? Do you have a disease?”
“No. I’m clean.” He carried the condom with him and went into the bathroom.
Water ran before he reappeared. “How do you know you can’t have children?” He looked at
her for a long moment. “Olivia, you were a virgin.”
“Oh…” So much she couldn’t share. But she wanted nothing more than to bare her soul.
“Some things I just know. Like my last name and what Edison invented.” She sat up. “I can’t
have babies. Do you have any? Children?”
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“No.” He gave a slight shake of his head. “Besides never being in the position to have
children…” For the first time, he looked uncomfortable. “I never wanted to bring a child into this
world. It can be a shitty place.” He turned as if to leave the room. “You want a drink?”
“Yes, if you get one.”
“Be right back.”
I bet he’d make pretty babies with brown eyes. She sighed in longing. Sweet smelling
babies… No. Best not to consider what would never be.
Wrapping her arms around her bent knees she waited for Malin’s return.
From earlier explorations she’d done, it appeared he was going into the kitchen. It wasn’t a
frightening place like those found in Netherworld. A shudder shook her shoulders. Being put in a
Brazen Bull frightened her most next to being tortured by snakes. No. She never wanted to go
near a kitchen in Netherworld.
When he returned, the towel he wore hugged his hips dangerously low. Desire danced to life
at his approach.
“Here you go.” Malin passed her a glass of water, which she guzzled down.
“Jesus, Olivia.”
She glanced back in worry.
“What happened to your back?” The mattress shifted under his weight. “Some sadist
branded you?”
“Oh…wait.” With trembling hands, she caught his fingers. “It’s nothing. It happened a long
time ago.” She ducked her head. “I’d rather not talk about it.” The Prince’s mark ensured she’d
never forget where she belonged.
“Sure.” He urged her into his embrace. “But you remember something?”
“Yes, some things I remember…like being unable to conceive. This is something I don’t
want to talk about.” She swallowed. The evil mark she wore on her shoulder was a reminder that
the Dark Prince owned her soul. It was a reminder she was never out of his reach.
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Chapter Six
Malin stirred from sleep. For the first time in a long while, he’d slept well. Real well. There
hadn’t been a nightmare of The Slayer to interrupt his slumber. Only the alarm had disturbed
him, and then after a quick call into the office, he’d gone back to sleep with Olivia curled up at
his side.
Olivia. Missing the weight of her body against him, Malin reached a hand out seeking out
her warmth. No matter where he patted only a cool sheet fanned out under his fingers.
He opened his eyes to view the empty bed and the empty room.
Concern over her whereabouts drove him to get up. At the foot of his bed, he noted the glass
door to the patio wasn’t closed tightly. He moved closer to catch sight of Olivia’s red hair
glistening in the sunlight.
Satisfied Olivia was fine, he went into the bathroom where he cleaned up and dressed. He
joined her outside.
Arousal stirred to life as soon as he saw her sitting in a lounge chair. He blinked at the sun
goddess. The completely nude sun goddess. “Jesus, Olivia…”
The depth of her black gaze bore into his in solemn innocence. Sitting up straight, she
placed a foot on either side of the chair.
Malin sat in front of her to block her from the view of his neighbors and God. Her skin was
pink tinted. “You’re getting sunburned.”
Olivia tilted her head back to expose her long throat. “Is the sun not the most beautiful thing
ever created?” She looked at him, her expression full of joy.
“No, not the most beautiful.” He forced himself to stay focused on her gaze and not the apex
of her legs. I’m looking at the most beautiful of God’s creations.
The smile she offered sucker punched him. The woman captivated him. Today, he’d spend
time getting to know her. As much as she remembered.
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Like a fine athlete, she brought a foot up and ran her toes along his erection. He caught her
exploring foot and roughly ran his thumbs along the bottom.
She gasped and tried to escape his massaging fingers. Instead he kissed her toe, earning
another quick breath.
Reluctantly, he let her go. “We need to get inside.”
“So we can fuck on the bed?”
His balls drew up on another jolt of lust. She may be submissive, but she knew what she
wanted. “So my neighbors don’t call the police.” He doubted any of them would. Many of them
knew where he worked. That fact had given him a certain amount of notoriety. And on occasion,
a neighbor had come to him as if he was a police officer instead of a federal agent.
Although he saw questions in her expression, she used him as a brace as she stood up. He
followed her perfectly shaped ass into the bedroom.
Inside, he snatched up a shirt and pair of jeans she had folded and placed on the dresser.
“Here put these on.” He looked around. Where had she put her underclothes?
“You no longer wish to fuck me?” Olivia crossed her arms over her breasts.
“No, I want to.” He tossed the jeans over his shoulder. “Look, I want nothing more than to
spend the day in bed.”
She pulled the shirt over her head.
Yeah, getting clothes on her would help. “But I want to try and figure some things out first.
Let you get to know me.”
She stuck her arms through the armholes. Pebbled nipples jutted outward, clearly outlined
by the material.
“Where’s your bra?”
“My bra?”
He made a hand motion. “You know, for your breasts.” Could a woman forget something as
simple as a bra? She had to have spent her entire life wearing one. Her breasts were firm and
high. They weren’t fake either. She didn’t have any carefully placed scars, and they weren’t hard
as rocks.
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“You want me to wear a bra?” She waved a hand. “I tucked the pretty underclothes under
the bed.”
“What?” He glanced at the bed and shook his head. He’d clear some space for her later if it
came to that. Jesus they had a lot to talk about. “Never mind, we’ll find them later.” He passed
over the jeans.
Olivia wiggled into the pants legs.
“Would getting to know me better be so bad?”
“Oh, no, Master. I want to know everything you’ll share.” As she straightened up, her
stomach rumbled.
“I’m sure you don’t mean everything.” Tempted to smile, he waved her in front of him. “But
I’ll give you some facts. Let’s get some breakfast.”
In the kitchen, he set about making omelets, while Olivia sat on a stool at the island.
“How many eggs do you want in your omelet?”
She shifted up on her knees to brace her arms on the countertop. Her cleavage showed. “All
of them.”
A chuckle rumbled up. Of course she’d want all of them. He removed an egg from its shell
in quick movements. Omelets were one of the few things he knew how to cook. He preferred
takeout to time in a kitchen.
“I’m waiting, Master, to hear everything.”
“Malin.” From the stove, he looked over his shoulder. “I want you to call me Malin.” It was
important they started fresh. And truth was, they might never make it to Master and submissive.
He hadn’t forgotten about the brand. She must have been someone’s domestic slave. It was a
miracle she hadn’t wound up as someone’s sex slave being used by one and all.
There was so much he wanted to know about her. Needed to know. And maybe she didn’t
trust him. Yet.
“Malin, I’ll try to remember.”
“Good. Let’s see… My name is Malin Andrew Cross.” He dumped some mushrooms, ham
and onions into the eggs. “I’ll be thirty-six on my birthday in July. I’ve worked for the bureau for
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some twelve years. For the most part, I like my job.” Yes, he got a thrill every time they arrested
a lowlife. Too bad they didn’t win every day.
Another look Olivia’s way showed she hadn’t moved. Wide-eyed she regarded him.
Uncomfortable with talking about himself, he looked back at the food.
“My parents are retired teachers. Both are remarried. I have a younger half-brother, also a
teacher. I’ve lived here in Chicago about eight years now.” Scooping the omelet up, he put it on
two plates. “And like everyone else in the Windy City, I’d be damn happy if the Bears would
bring home another championship ring.” He put her omelet within her reach and then poured
them each a glass of milk.
“I’m originally from Milwaukee.” He sat their glasses down. “I double majored in sociology
and criminal justice. And I have a master’s in forensics.”
Olivia shifted to sit on her ass.
He watched as she guzzled her drink and licked away her mustache.
“Want some more?”
“Oh, yes.” At his approach with the jug, she tapped the countertop. “Leave it, please.”
“Sure.” He sat across from her. “I worked my way through college as a prison guard. Then
made it into the FBI.” He shrugged. “And here I am as a special agent in the violent crimes unit
where I do some profiling, among other things.”
Jesus. He managed to stop himself from telling her of the long hours he worked. But with
Olivia around, he’d have ample motivation to get home earlier.
For a few minutes, they ate in silence. Observing how hungry Olivia was, he made up four
slices of toast, spreading them with whipped butter and jam.
Greedily, she ate one down and licked her lips.
“So, did I bore you to death, or do you want to hear more?” He’d assumed she’d have asked
him questions while he was talking but that didn’t appear to be the case.
“Oh, tell me everything.” She licked jam from her fingertips.
“No questions yet?” Talking about himself wasn’t something he’d had cause to do before.
Questions would help him muddle through this.
“Oh.” She sat up straighter. “Yes, I have an important one.”
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Expectantly, he held her gaze.
“Do you remember who you’re supposed to contact if I…” her voice was low, as if sharing a
secret, “…if something happens to me?”
Unease tightened in his guts. Now that he hadn’t expected.
Olivia waited expectantly for Malin to give her the right answer. Nothing was more
important than the guardian’s name.
“Remember my sharp memory? I’ve got it memorized.” He tapped his temple. “You holding
up?”
She glanced at the ugly darken who’d slinked in while Malin had been making eggs.
Repeatedly, she had willed the beast to leave, but there it stood behind where Malin sat.
Short horns stuck out of the darken’s head. It was only a matter of time before the half
demon lost all resemblance to a human. She hated to look at its twisted mouth. Her hands shook.
If the darken made another snide remark about Malin she thought she’d scream.
“Hey.” Malin made his way over to her side. “Don’t look like that. I’m damn good with
puzzles. We’ll figure out your past.”
She swallowed.
“I know I’m giving you a lot of info on me.” He made a sound of amusement. “More info
than I’ve given out on a dozen dates, but I’m hoping to jog your memory.” He regarded her a
moment. “Your schooling? Likes? Dislikes? Anything?”
“This guy is such a chump.” A sneer rattled her mind. “He’s got it real bad for you.
Actually believes if he can help you regain your memory, you two will have a future together.
What a fucking fool.” The darken’s face cracked with laughter.
An unbearable feeling tightened her chest and caught her off guard. Desire. Joy. Sadness.
Her fingers trembled, and she clutched them in her lap.
Oh, Mummy… This is so wrong. All of it. Malin couldn’t care for her and to allow him any
hope was wrong. “Malin, you can’t…” She shook her head. “You can’t love me.”
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“Hey.” He cupped her cheek. His thumb felt rough on her skin. “You’re jumping the gun
here…”
A snort sounded from the darken.
Tears welled up. “You just can’t.”
“Wish you could hear his heart pounding.” The half demon snickered. “This blatant talk of
love is getting to the poor fool.”
“Olivia, come on.” His hand shifted to clasp her shoulder. “Let’s take this one day at a
time.”
Resolved to do what was right, she slid off the chair. “I need to be honest.” No matter the
cost. “I’m going to be honest.”
For the first time, a guarded look came into his gaze. It tugged at her heart.
“I need you to know.” She swallowed over a forming lump. She didn’t want to say another
word. Didn’t want to have him hate her… But for his sake she had to come clean. “I’ve been
lying to you.”
A deafening shriek tore through her mind. Spots danced behind her eyes. Strong arms
caught her before she hit the floor.
“Olivia?”
Malin scooped her up in his arms and carried her into the bedroom. She stayed close. With
her arms around his neck, she refused to let him go.
His hands massaged her back.
“I remember everything.” Tears threatened to spill over. In no time at all, she’d be back in
Netherworld. Her arms tightened in misery. She’d even miss the world he lived in. But most of
all she’d miss him so, so much.
Oh Mummy, watch over him for me.
“Shh, I want you to calm down.”
“I wasn’t sent here as your guardian angel.”
“What the fuck are you doing?” The darken stormed into her mind.
Her throat constricted. A sob clogged in her chest. She didn’t want to tell him what she
really was. She swallowed hard to force the confession out. “I was sent here to corrupt you.”
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“Shut up, you dumb bitch!”
“No! You shut up!” Malin deserved a good life that led to the paradise of Afterworld. Not
this.
Olivia couldn’t see past the tears. An unbearable tightness bore down beneath her breast.
Knowing she had only moments with Malin left she clung to his warm body. “It’s true.” She
nodded, a hand burrowing into his short hair. “It’s true. I’m an evil being.”
“If you think I’m going to be punished like Aston was…” On the next blink, the half demon
disappeared.
Her blood rushed in fear. There was little time left now.
“Olivia, listen to me.” He eased away to look into her eyes. “You’re not evil. You took a
nasty hit on the head. That’s all.” Rough hands clasped her face. “Although initial searches
showed up nothing on your identity we will find out who you are.” He kissed her gently, before
hugging her close.
“You won’t.” Eyes closed so she wouldn’t be able to see his concern, she shook her head.
You won’t. I live among the undead in Netherworld.
“Pet.”
On a gasp, Olivia opened her eyes to look into amber fire.
“Tell your mark you’re tired and would like a nap.” The Dark Prince’s sultry, almost
pleasant tone didn’t lull her into feeling even remotely safe. Soon, she’d pay for her defiance.
That was a given.
Chilled to the bone, she wet her dry lips. She could scream and demand Malin believe her,
but she dared not. Sure if she did it would only bring Malin more harm. At least this way there
was a small chance he’d think over what she’d admitted and fear her.
No, she’d not risk Malin in such a way. Not in any way. “Master, I’m so tired.”
Again, he eased away. “You look pale. A nap might do you some good.”
Reluctantly, she let him go.
“I’ll check on you in a while.”
She nodded and rolled over into a ball.
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There was no time to rest as she and the Prince descended into Netherworld. Immediately,
the noise of suffering threatened to suffocate her. She’d never been able to completely tune out
others’ distress.
Olivia’s knees knocked as Satan fingered a lock of her hair. With his free hand, he waved
over the new darken who’d been keeping watch over her.
“Yes, Master.” The half demon lowered his gaze.
Releasing her hair, the Prince struck out to latch onto the darken’s head. “Don’t ever
approach me again with your inability to watch over a single female.” Claws extended, and
Olivia turned away but couldn’t block out his scream of terror.
At his silence she risked a look back.
The Dark Prince dropped the skull and kicked the decapitated head.
Dizziness caused her head to swim. The darken would suffer in agony until his body was
able to rejuvenate again.
“You’ve turned out to be quite the headache.” His smile shocked her with a second wave of
lightheadedness.
Bile churned in her stomach.
“Come along, pet.” The Prince walked past her.
Body quaking, heart in her throat, she followed without a murmur of protest. A knot twisted
when she realized where they were headed.
The snake pits.
Oh, Mummy, give me strength.
Ahead of them, a half dozen darkens prowled throughout paths around the holes. The cruel
half demons tormented those being punished below. She’d seen that with her own eyes.
With a motion of his hand, the Prince waved her ahead of him to a particularly rough
looking darken. “See that she suffers but lives.”
The Prince only wanted her to suffer.
Rejuvenating from a death would’ve made her whole again, including giving back her
maidenhead. She might not have been able to get through to Malin that she wasn’t of his world,
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but a second deflowering was something a man would notice. She quivered at the chance of
seeing Malin once more.
Still, with the promise of torture her mind didn’t ease.
He caressed a lock of her hair. “Then you’ll do what you’re told, won’t you, pet?”
No sooner had the Prince walked away than Olivia was pushed into a pit. She screamed on
her way down. Her legs and pelvic bone shattered when she hit the ground.
Unbearable pain stole her breath. But unfortunately, not her mind. She heard the hissing of
the serpents.
They’d be on her soon. Their fangs striking out to sink deep. She’d go mad soon.
Nonpoisonous biting snakes were the worst. Best to die and get a short break from the reptiles.
Olivia shuddered and did her best to ignore the blinding pain. She bled internally. She felt
her life force weakening. But she’d survive the broken bones. Internal injuries would heal.
“Scorpio…” Knowing it was foolish she reached out with her mind.
Only the hissing of snakes answered her plea.
“Oh, please hear me, Scorpio…”
“What?”
She gasped. “Scorpio, you can hear me?”
“Unfortunately.”
How? She hadn’t thought it’d be possible.
“A decade back, I pissed the wrong Gypsy off.” He snorted. “She gave me what she referred
to as a blessing.”
Warmth spread through her blood, and she opened her eyes to stare into the surrounding
blackness. Instead, Scorpio stood there in front of her. “How?”
“Even some demons fear Drina’s magic.” He shrugged a shoulder. “I cannot stay. Nor can I
ease your pain.”
“I know.” For the first time, she noted the snakes had gone quiet. “I want to know, does love
exist? Is it real?”
“Enough have died in the name of love.” Again he shrugged. “So I suppose so.”
Love.
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Oh, Mummy…
Affection. Admiration. Desire. Tenderness. What incredible emotions Malin inspired in her.
Her eyelids grew heavy. “You must save him.” She forced her eyes open. “Even from me.”
He nodded.
“I know you must hate me…us.”
“It’s not my place to judge.”
“But you have to know I’d push that first officer overboard again and again….” She
swallowed. After her mum died she’d been forced to take up thieving. She’d stolen what it’d
taken to survive. It was either steal or whore. And she’d refused to be a whore. Her life had
always been hard, but once she’d been indentured and put on that bloody ship, that…rotten
bastard had raped her every night, calling her his personal whore. “Yes, I’d do it again.” Her lip
trembled. As much as she regretted it, if she hadn’t pushed him overboard when she’d had a
chance, she’d not have ever met Malin. And for Malin, she’d sacrifice what little she had to give.
He was worth it.
“I must go.”
“I know. Thank…” She trailed off since he’d already disappeared.
Almost immediately, the snakes went into a frenzy. The first one struck her on her right
hand.
Fear drove the scream from her as more fangs dug deep.
Malin woke slowly to cradle Olivia against his side. Damn her nightmares. Her dreams
appeared to be violent. Comparable to night terrors, though he’d read children normally suffered
from them most often. Nor was it night. A glance at the clock that sat on the bedside table
showed it was about dinner time.
He’d slept longer than he’d anticipated. He didn’t sleep well most nights and a nap never
happened. It was a nice surprise to be so comfortable with Olivia.
The peace of the moment didn’t last long.
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Just as they had before he’d dozed, Olivia’s words hounded him. I’m evil. Damn, what kind
of sadistic bastard had had her? Mental pain damaged a person as easily as physical abuse.
Debasing, especially over a long period, often left scars on the psyche.
Absently, he ran his fingers over the soft skin on her upper arm.
He hated the thought of what she might have gone through. I’m evil. That wasn’t a normal
thought, unless it’d been put there by someone. In his line of work, he’d encountered far too
many he did consider evil. Olivia was a pleasure to be around. Not only sexual attraction held
him captive, but he enjoyed her enthusiasm. Hell, he even liked to watch her eat.
What they needed were pieces of the puzzle to her identity. Again, he willed Jay to call him
with some information into her past. Facts would go a long way in helping her to heal. And he
wanted her well. Whole.
Moaning, she stretched before settling down once more. “Master, you’re tickling me.”
“Oh.” He stilled his hand. “Sorry.”
“It’s so nice to be here, awake…” She curled her limbs and curves around him.
“Do you remember your dreams?”
Olivia tightened her hold. “Yes.”
Silken strands of her hair threaded through his fingertips. “Do you want to talk about them?”
She shook her head.
That’s what he’d figured. Still, he pushed her. “Sometimes our lives, tough decisions we
must make, fears, regrets we have, all manifest in our dreams.”
“Do you dream such things?”
Malin let out a breath through his nose. Obviously, the woman didn’t want to talk about the
terrors that haunted her in sleep. But maybe sharing would benefit her and him. “Yes. Well, I
don’t sleep regularly anymore. But, when I do, The Slayer puts in an appearance.”
“I’m sorry your sleep isn’t restful.” She hugged him. “Sleeping is…was my favorite thing.”
He frowned, knowing oversleeping could be a sign of depression. If she’d been in a bad
relationship as he suspected, it was possible for her to be dealing with depression. Had her
previous Master bothered with doctors, let alone therapy? He doubted it from what he’d learned
so far.
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Olivia pushed up onto an elbow. “Do you want to know what my new favorite pastime is?”
Her hair cascaded down, shielding most of her face. He moved the tendrils out of the way.
Lust stirred as his heart rate kicked up.
Not waiting for his reply, she pressed her lips to his. “Fucking you, Master.”
A groan rumbled up at the title.
Master.
Olivia’s dominant.
Yes, already he wanted the honor. He wanted to be her protector. He wanted to call her his.
Lust heating his blood, Malin gripped her hips when she straddled him. The barrier of their
clothes prevented him from getting close enough.
His hands slid up beneath the shirt to caress the soft skin of her lower back. Roughly, he
massaged her ribs.
Her tongue played with his lips until he opened for her. She was hungry and greedy in her
exploration. With each swipe of her tongue, his arousal beat hotter. Frustrated, he arched his hips
pressing his cock against her but managed not to break the kiss.
Jesus he wanted her. Couldn’t get enough of her touch.
Olivia’s breasts rubbed his chest as she pressed her pussy against his erection.
It was difficult to think past the hard-on. He wanted to fill her up, wanted to make her
scream. Most of all he wanted to come. But first he wanted for her to submit. “Suck me.”
“Oh yes.” Quickly she wiggled down his thighs to where she was able to reach the buttons
of his pants. With nimble fingers she released his cock from the confining material.
It stood straight up from his body and twitched.
She moistened her lips before leaning over and licking upward from his sac. Two licks later
she engulfed his cock like a pro. Up and down her head bobbed as she screwed her mouth around
his rigid length.
Hips arching, Malin groaned. Fuck. She may have been a virgin but she’d given head before.
The way she sucked, deep-throating his cock… She’d given head regularly.
He gulped air at the suction she used.
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The soft sounds she made caused a sweat to break out along his chest. His balls tightened in
warning.
“Olivia.” Fuck, if she kept it up he’d come. “Enough.” He wanted to please her, to make up
for her old Master. He wanted to give her so much more.
Finally, she took pity on him.
“Get undressed.” He worked to get his need under control.
Standing up, she shimmied out of her jeans, revealing her nude form.
A gulp of air rushed his lungs. Jesus, her perfect figure was the Ferrari of women’s bodies,
a car he’d never expected to drive. The woman was fit.
With a shaky hand, he motioned her over his hips.
Straddling him once more, she sat back down. Wet flesh rubbed along wet flesh.
He grunted, enjoying the intimate contact.
A single kiss was pressed to his lips before she straightened to roll her pussy along his
erection again. His mouth went dry while she removed her top exposing full breasts. “You’re
beautiful.”
She smiled. “So are you.”
He shook his head. “How do you stay in such great shape?”
“Mmm.” Countering she kissed him. “How do you stay in shape?”
Malin admitted he kept in shape to stay on his toes in his world. But Olivia…Olivia had to
take working out seriously. She was perfectly fit and trim. “I run and lift weights for the most
part.”
“Oh, I run too.” She nodded. “I run a lot. I pull a pony cart for the Mistresses.”
Pony cart? He stilled his hands on her thighs. Mistresses? Europe sprang to mind. From his
knowledge of BDSM she must have been held on some private estate in Europe. He’d never
traveled that far but he’d spoken to another Master or two who’d shared stories.
“What?” Thick lashes shielded her gaze.
“Nothing. I like hearing you share what you remember.” At that moment, though he didn’t
believe everything she’d said before, he’d bet his pension she remembered a lot more than she
was willing to tell him. Time, she needed time. And he had plenty to give.
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“Don’t hide what you know from me.” He wanted to know her every thought. Her every
desire. Her every want. With gentle hands, he caught her face and met her lips for a kiss. He
fought the urge to dominate her, to demand to know everything. This wasn’t the time.
His tongue teased with slow and steady strokes until she ground down on his hard cock.
“You’re going to make me come.”
“Would that please you?” Her chest rose and fell on short gulps of air.
“I want you.” He swallowed. “Get on your knees.”
“Oh, yes.” She scrambled off to position herself on her hands and knees. Keeping an eye on
him, she rested her forearms and face on the bed. Her thighs spread wide. Her ass pushed in the
air in offering.
A groan rumbled up. Her firm ass. He could claim its virginity too. She’d not deny him. Lust
running hot, he shook the desire off. Not yet. Later. They had plenty of time.
On his feet, Malin moved around for a better look. Her pussy dripped. Even in the fading
light of day, he could see the wetness glistening on the folds.
What a turn on.
As he reached for a condom, his cell rang. “Sorry.”
Olivia sat up.
“It’s probably Jay.” Dammit, what timing. “I’ve got to take this.”
Malin picked his cell up. His blood ran cold at the number displayed on the caller ID. His
home number flashed.
Fuck! It had to be Thayer.
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Chapter Seven
“Get dressed.” Malin snatched up the gun that she’d noted always remained nearby.
Without a sound, Olivia did as she was told. Something was wrong. Horribly wrong by the
hard look on Malin’s face. Heart in her throat, she stared as he collected a second gun.
A chill crawled up her spine.
“I want you to get behind me and stay there.”
Scrambling, she got behind his broad back. Knees knocking, she placed her hands on the
tense muscles beneath his shirt. “What’s…” she trailed off as her mind caught up with the
unfolding scene.
In another lifetime Malin would’ve kept her safe. Now she didn’t need his protection. Only
injury to Malin could truly hurt her. With a swelling heart, she stayed put. Malin wanted to keep
her safe and she wouldn’t risk breaking his concentration.
Only Malin’s head shifted from one direction to the next. His arms remained outstretched as
he pointed the weapons.
She peeked under an arm. A dirty young man stood at the glass doors. She swiveled to peek
in the other direction. Another man stood in the bedroom doorway as well. Both carried guns
bigger than Malin’s.
Sickness knotted her stomach. On a hitch, her breathing rushed. Sweat beaded her palms and
rolled down between her breasts. Heart thundering from panic, she searched for a way out.
Malin, she had to keep Malin safe.
This is so terribly wrong.
Although both men held weapons at them, it was the older man she feared most. His eyes.
The cold venomous orbs caused a quiver to run along her spine.
The Slayer… Who else could it be?
No. No. No. She wanted to scream.
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“Malin, we’ve enjoyed our visit in your home.” The man in the doorway waved the younger
man inside. “Meet Samuel. He belongs to me and will do anything I ask.” A twisted smile spread
across The Slayer’s mouth. “I have you to thank for his devotion. You and your fascination with
dominance.”
Master’s stance didn’t waver.
“You see, I had to learn everything I could about you—including your tastes.” Another
smiled flashed. This one was uglier than the last. “A special friend told me all I needed to know.”
“He’s in cohorts with a demon.” Her teeth chattered as she whispered her warning.
Frantically, she looked at the younger man. Would he do as The Slayer bragged? Why
would anyone risk Paradise for a twisted soul?
“And your slave? Already attached to her, are you?”
Oh, Mummy…
“I’ve a feeling the bitch is keeping secrets from you. Aren’t you, Olivia?”
She sucked in a breath.
Still Malin didn’t move.
Dear Lord… Please… She hated the idea of what she’d shared with Malin turned ugly and
dirty. Worse she couldn’t bear to have Malin hurt or killed. The time they shared couldn’t end
like this.
A quiver caused her to moan.
Oh, Mummy…
No. Neither her mum nor the Lord would help. Her mum was in a better place. And the Lord
had abandoned her a long, long time ago.
“Scorpio! Scorpio!” She called out through her mind. The guardian owed her nothing, but
Malin… Surely he’d have to help a living soul in need. “Scorpio, please!”
Her Master moved then, but only slightly.
Olivia peeked again to see Scorpio standing across the room with the opposite wall to his
back.
“Now that’s not fair.” The Slayer tsked. “But I can play this game too.” The Slayer broke
into a chant in a language she didn’t understand.
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“Shit.” Scorpio pulled out the sword he carried.
“Good.” She nodded in approval. “Kill him.”
Scorpio shook his head. “No, he’s human.” The room turned cold as a demon appeared.
“What the hell?” Malin swung his gun from the young man to the beast.
“Now it I can kill.” With an arc of his weapon, Scorpio sent the demon back to Netherworld.
No sooner had the first demon disappeared did a second and third appear.
Tears burned her throat. No! Please no!
She’d made things so much worse by summoning Scorpio. Lips compressed, she fought
back a rising tide of anger and frustration. With each pulse of her heart, the guardian beat back a
demon.
Malin stepped back, forcing her against the wall behind her.
She whimpered at the sight of soul suckers appearing to hover in the high corners of the
room. No! No! No! The demons had only one purpose. To collect a condemned soul.
A shiver wracked her body at the razor sharp teeth, which surrounded an endless black hole
of a mouth. Flame red eyes looked on with anticipation.
Someone would die. Tears burned her eyes. It couldn’t be Malin.
Please, Lord. Please… She pleaded for help that wouldn’t come.
Quickly, before he could stop her, she slunk under his arm to shield Malin.
“Olivia, get back!” Malin tried to nudge her back, but at the same time, he refused to take
his gun off The Slayer.
As large as his bedroom was, it was overcrowded now. The young man at the glass doors
shook as badly as she did. The change in his demeanor didn’t ease her one wit. The weapon was
more likely to go off than ever.
“Let’s even the odds, shall we?” The Slayer let loose a string of gunfire that dusted a demon
and tore through Scorpio’s arm.
“No!”
Malin’s arm came around her. “Backup is coming.” His gun didn’t leave the line of The
Slayer. Slowly, he attempted to ease them more to their sides. But she refused to budge. No way
would she allow Malin to shield her with his all too mortal body.
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The invading demons gave the guardian no time before pouncing.
At the glass doors, the young man stumbled outside only to be shot in the back by The
Slayer before he fled.
“Obviously he wasn’t as properly trained as I’d thought.” The Slayer pursed his lips.
Olivia screamed again while the soul eaters devoured their meal of the young accomplice’s
soul. Once finished, instead of leaving, they took their corner spots.
Scorpio.
Her heart crawled up into her throat. Yes, Malin was in danger. But they waited for the
guardian. And she’d gotten him there.
No! Dear Lord, not because of me.
Still Scorpio continued to fight while Malin kept her close.
“Dear Lord, I beg you… Keep them safe. Keep them both in your embrace…”
Another burst of gun fire rattled her ears. Scorpio collapsed to one knee.
A moan tore past her lips at the flash of white hot pain. Within heartbeats she had to fight to
keep her eyes open.
“Olivia!” Malin pulled her tight. “Olivia!”
More blasts. These were close by as Malin returned fire.
She blinked to see The Slayer was gone, along with two of the soul suckers. Malin turned
her around to hold her close.
A moan crawled out from her throat. She didn’t want to leave Malin. She wanted to stay by
his side forever… “You’re safe, Master.” Joy. Relief at that knowledge soothed her. She forced a
smile for his benefit. “You’re safe.” Tears pooled in her eyes until she had to close them. Her
mum could be proud of her now.
“Olivia, you’re going to be okay.”
With unsteady fingers, she traced his handsome face. “Scorpio, help him now.”
Malin’s gun popped several times before he looked back down. “The fuckers keep coming.”
More gunfire followed even more.
Olivia cried then. She offered those of Paradise the only thing she had left to give. Tears.
Tears of regret and prayers for Malin and Scorpio’s souls. “If only I had my soul to offer… If I
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could die but one more time.” She attempted to swallow. “I would for them.” She’d spend ten
eternities in Netherworld for them.
He jerked as another blast tore from his gun. “Olivia, stay with me.”
But she couldn’t stay.
Already the bands of Netherworld pulled her home.
Malin spared a glance at the spot where Thayer had been standing a heartbeat ago. The
fucker had run. Run like a dog.
He allowed the escape without giving chase. Backup would capture him. Or kill the bastard.
He hoped the latter. The planet would be a safer place.
For so long he’d wanted to be the one to apprehend the bastard. Had wanted to be the one to
send him to his grave. But now… Now all he was concerned with was Olivia’s survival. Her
safety.
Jesus, I beg you save her.
His obsession over catching The Slayer couldn’t cost Olivia her life. That he’d not be able to
overcome. He’d wanted so badly to see The Slayer dead. Now all he wanted was Olivia back on
her feet.
Jesus, I beg you save her.
Seconds passed while he fired at inhuman beings. Shot at creatures out of some horror
movie.
Olivia needed a hospital. Or at least a paramedic. The bullet had hit her in the stomach. He
didn’t understand how it hadn’t passed through her at such close range.
The man called Scorpio also needed medical attention. He’d never get over the fact Olivia
had wanted him to call a man who’d appeared out of nowhere. A man who wielded a sword like
he’d been born with it in his hand. Whatever the man was, he was damn grateful for his help.
He replaced an empty clip and fired. The creatures didn’t let up on the man across the room.
They slashed at him with hits designed to take him down.
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Another tick of the clock had him glancing back down at Olivia. She’d grown so still. So
fucking still. She’d sacrificed herself for me. How will I ever live with that?
His chest ached at the loss of blood he hadn’t been able to stop. With another squeeze of his
trigger he continued to fire the creatures off. At least with him fighting, Olivia had a chance.
Jesus, don’t take her…not now. Take me… It’s my battle.
It was his battle. He’d been playing The Slayer’s cat and mouse games for far too long.
Olivia deserves so much more.
It’s my battle.
Please don’t take her…
I’ll give anything.
Sweat coated his body as the room grew suddenly warm. The two monsters in the corners
screeched in fury.
He stopped squeezing the trigger.
A bright light blinded him until his eyes adjusted. Awed, he stared. As ugly as the monsters
were, this being was striking in contrast.
Only once the wings were tucked in was Malin able to see clearly. An angel. It had to be an
angel. Angels had wings in all the stories. With the calmness settled over the room he was able to
take in what was happening. Demons. Angels. And Scorpio? Without wings, the man had to be a
demon hunter of sorts. As unbelievable as it was, it was all real.
From outside, he heard gunfire.
Across the room, Scorpio struggled to stay on his knees. “Sir.”
He glanced down. The barest hint of a heartbeat pulsed in Olivia’s throat.
“Justice has been served,” the angel declared. “Malin, you will know no more demons, or
the human kind.”
The angel moved to their side where he placed a hand on Olivia’s shoulder. “With this
touch, I heal you, Olivia. You’ve proven your redemption in your sacrifice of self for and your
protection of Malin. In doing so, you have earned salvation.” All of the viable blood flowed back
into her body. Like the special effects in a Hollywood movie, her clothes appeared good as new.
Malin’s throat worked. What had happened?
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A warm hand settled on his shoulder. “Sometimes it’s best just to believe.” As the angel’s
hand lingered, warmth spread through him. When the being released him he was left in awe.
He regarded the angel’s clear eyes and nodded. The what the fuck moment had passed. With
an angel in front of him, he could do nothing other than believe.
Besides, it didn’t really matter. As long as Olivia was alive, it didn’t matter. Sweet Jesus,
thank you.
“My Lord.” Olivia stirred and pushed away from his chest. “Oh, my Lord, how can I ever
thank you enough?”
“I’m only the messenger.” The angel stepped back. “Don’t thank me.” He turned to Scorpio.
“Now, as for you…”
Scorpio struggled to his feet and leaned on the wall. He sheathed his sword with bloody
hands. “Yes, sir.”
“You have broken Fellowship rules.” The angel shook his head.
“Yes, sir.” Scorpio nodded, doing his best to keep the weight off his shredded leg.
“Go and allow your brothers to heal your wounds. Your punishment awaits you in
Purgatory.”
“But…” Olivia stopped as Malin clasped her shoulders. He had a whole bunch of questions.
And every one of them was for Olivia. Whatever was happening now wasn’t any of their
business.
“Yes, sir.” Scorpio clapped his hands and disappeared.
Malin blinked.
“Scorpio has a soft spot for women.” The angel sighed. “I fear one will be his downfall one
day.” Then, fading away, the angel left them alone.
“Oh, Malin.” A sob burst from between Olivia’s trembling lips. “I’m free. I’m really free.”
“Shh…” He urged Olivia into his embrace in hopes of drying her tears. They tore him up.
She should be happy, not bawling.
They weren’t alone for long. Malin barely had time to settle Olivia close before Jay, along
with other officers, flooded his bedroom.
“You two all right?” Jay’s chest heaved.
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Keeping Olivia against him, Malin inclined his head. They couldn’t be better, now that
Olivia was okay. Well, admittedly he still had a whole lot of questions that needed some serious
answers. But they’d survived the most intense ten minutes of his life.
“I got Thayer,” Jay confirmed.
“I’ve got a feeling he’s already enjoying his stay in Hell.” Oh yeah, you had to love when an
angel kicked ass. He shook his head over the unreality of it all.
Their boss joined them. After a look around the room, the man frowned Malin’s way. He
didn’t speak, only stared hard.
Olivia shivered and he hugged her close. “Let me get Olivia settled before I give you my
statement.”
“Fine.”
He had some explaining to do. And how the fuck he was supposed to explain all the bullet
holes on the walls he didn’t know yet. Apparently, bullets killed demons but went through them
as they were turned to dust. And why the angel hadn’t used a little mojo to clean up the place, he
couldn’t figure.
With her hand in his, he took her into the living room. Once he had them in the far corner,
he positioned his back to any eyes. He wanted to shield Olivia from anyone passing.
With shaking fingers, he clasped her face. “Want to give me the condensed version?”
She looked up at him with big eyes.
“What just happened?”
“Oh.” Her smiled trembled. “You saved me.”
He grunted. It hadn’t felt that way. In fact, he knew damn well she’d sacrificed herself for
him. Had gone through some serious shit on his behalf. “Liar. You put your body in front of
mine.” There’d been no way for him to move her without taking his eyes off Thayer.
“No, it’s true.” She clutched his wrists and lowered her voice. “I was a condemned soul.”
A frown creased his forehead.
“I tried to tell you about my life…” Long lashes lowered as if to shield her. “I died on a
convict ship.”
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He forced her to look at him. Though curious about her past, whatever happened before
didn’t matter. It wouldn’t change how he felt now. Their connection couldn’t be denied. “Back in
the hotel?” The possibility boggled his mind. “May tenth, eighteen hundred and eighty-eight.”
She nodded. “That’s when I died. I grew up in London’s East End.”
“Victorian England.” To think he’d worried about her mental health. An angel had been in
his home and had worked a miracle.
“I wanted to tell you everything then.” Her breath was shaky. “Ask me anything now.”
He blinked to clear his vision. Only then did the change strike him. Her eyes, which had
been black only moments before were now a vibrant green. “Olivia, your eyes.”
“What about them?”
“They’re green now.”
“Oh.” The smile spreading across her mouth nearly brought him to his knees. Jesus, she was
beautiful. Tears swimming in her gaze knotted his stomach. “My mum’s were green.”
He pulled her into his embrace and held her against his pounding heart. He’d almost lost her.
And now she was his. His.
“I’m really here.” Urgent fingers kneaded the muscles in his back. “I’m really here with
you.”
“Angels don’t lie.” He hugged her tight. “You’re here for good.” And he was keeping her at
his side. He had so much to show her about the world. He kissed her gently.
Olivia pushed against his chest. “You’ll be my Master now?”
Malin groaned on a surge of emotion. “I’ll be a whole lot more.”
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Epilogue
“No more.” Malin’s tongue darted out to catch the juices from the orange. He’d eaten his fill
ten minutes ago but hadn’t been able to resist her personal attention.
Shifting he tried to ignore his erection.
Jesus, he’d never get enough of Olivia. Not her attention. Not her body. And not her time.
Hanging out with her was almost as fun as fucking her. Almost.
Olivia placed the bowl of fruit across from them on the coffee table and snuggled closer to
him. “Are we staying home tonight?”
“Uh-huh.” He wrapped his arm around her shoulders. At the feel of her hand resting over his
heart, it sped up. This was the life. He enjoyed staying in with her as much as he did taking her
out and showing her off.
Three months had passed since The Slayer had gotten what he deserved. They were three of
the best months of his life. Malin urged her closer. As close as she let him, he always wanted
closer. Deeper.
“Unless you want to go out?” He rubbed the bare skin of her upper arm. Already arousal
stirred hot. Would he ever get used to loving her? Or to what they shared?
“I always want to go out.” Using moist lips, she pressed a kiss into his neck.
He chuckled, even as he arched his hips. That was the truth. She was always up for anything.
And anything he wanted in particular. He blew out air in an attempt fight the growing need. They
had all the time in the world. She was his. Settling back down, his fingers played with some
strands of her loose hair.
They’d learned many things about Olivia in her new life. He’d done everything in his power
to show her some of the world. So many changes had taken place. Two weeks had been spent
traveling the Midwest. And he’d been teaching her a basic education. Soon he’d need to get her
some professional tutoring. There was only so much he was capable of doing. And she wanted to
study at a culinary school. The goal had become important to her.
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She loved food.
She wanted a cooking show on the Food Network. He’d learned not to snort every time the
notion was brought up. She’d already gotten herself a champion, Scorpio, the damn meddlesome
guardian angel.
“If we’re staying home should I invite Scorpio?” She pushed to sit up.
Malin bit back a growl. Jesus. What were the chances the guy was busy for once? But he
could hardly deny her the company of her one friend. Jealousy was a new emotion he needed to
get over.
“You don’t mind, do you?” She leaned in to nibble on his lips. One of her hands fondled his
chest. His cock pulsed for attention of its own.
“Of course not.” After all, the guy never stayed long.
Olivia’s talented lips teased him into a deep, soul-catching embrace. He swallowed when
she finally broke the contact.
Still, she stayed close, arousing his senses. “You’ve been so good to me, Master.”
He grunted. He’d given her everything he had, but they both knew she’d been as good to and
for him. She’d given him his every fantasy. Every desire. Every hope.
As much as he cared for her—as much as it hurt him—he’d been the one to pull back on the
reins on where their future was leading. He couldn’t tell if Olivia was a submissive by nature or
training. Netherworld had molded her free will. More than anything he wanted to make sure she
was whole before he claimed her as his.
Too easily she’d slip into the role of a slave, and he didn’t want that unless she wanted it
too. So he’d kept their relationship as close to a weekend role-play of Dominance and submissive
as possible. Olivia had so much in life to make up for. And he wanted to ensure she experienced
every fantasy, desire and hope she had.
Otherwise he’d have married her months ago.
Unnerved over the surge of feelings for her, he clasped her face in his hands. “Invite
Scorpio.” Greedily he kissed her with an exploring tongue until she moaned.
“Malin.”
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His breath turned rough at the imploring look in her green gaze. “I decided this morning
what I want most in my new life.”
Mouth suddenly dry, he tried for a joke. “To own stock in Godiva?”
“Ooh…that’s a good idea. But…” She pushed against him until he leaned back on the
couch. She straddled his lap. “I want a baby named Elizabeth.”
A baby. Her mother’s name.
Jesus, yes. I’m ready.
And he did want to start a family with Olivia. A half dozen girls with red hair and green
eyes sounded about right.
As ready as he was, such talk always made him uncomfortable. Still aroused, he shifted
under her weight. “Ah, now, we’ve talked about all this.” They had about every other day. Olivia
wanted to hurry and rush everything along. Although he was more than ready to settle down, he
didn’t want to be unfair to her. She needed time to live, to decide.
Not a day passed that he didn’t give thanks. Olivia was perfect for him. His walking fantasy.
And as her dominant he had to do what was best for her well being.
“Yes, we have but I want my way in this.” She pressed her forehead to his. “You repeatedly
tell me I’ve choices in life. This is one I’m making myself. I want a daughter. I’ve got it all
planned out. I want Scorpio to be her guardian angel.”
“You’ve already spoken to Scorpio about this?” He caught her hips in a tight grip.
“Well, no. I tried once but he got this pained look about him.”
Malin nodded. It was probably the same pained look he’d seen when she’d gotten them to
try one of her cakes. It’d been God awful. Though she loved food and loved to experiment, she
hadn’t gotten a knack for it yet.
“My clock is ticking, and I’m far too old to wait a moment longer for a daughter.”
He chuckled. The woman’s been watching way too much television lately. “Olivia, even if I
was willing, I can’t just produce a female baby because you want one.” Obviously, he hadn’t
done the best job on the sex education talks he’d given her. Of course, they nearly always turned
to sexual exploration and hot sex.
“You said males determined what sex a child was.” A frown creased her perfect brow.
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Unable to stop the amusement, he choked down a chuckle. “Yeah, but not on demand.”
Jesus, I love her.
“Oh, well, what do we do to ensure it’s a girl?”
He shrugged a shoulder, trying his best not to smile at her serious expression. “We can’t. It’s
a crap shoot.”
“I can’t call a boy Elizabeth.”
“No.” The lyrics to “A Boy Named Sue” came to mind, causing him to laugh. “You can’t.”
“I can’t even think of a boy’s name close to Elizabeth.”
“Me neither.” Jesus, she turned him on. Made him happy.
“Maybe Scorpio’s witch friend, the one I told you about, could cast a spell…” Her eyes
brightened.
Leeriness straightened his spine. “No spells.”
“Oh, I bet she could.” Olivia caught her lower lip between her teeth. An obvious sign her
mind was already awhirl.
Malin’s chest tightened as the leeriness turned to worry. Would the guardians get involved
in this? No they wouldn’t dare. Though he had been surprised when Scorpio had reappeared that
first time. He shook his head clearly. “Not a single spell.”
“A fertility spell that promises lots of girl babies…”
“Olivia, no spell.” He scrambled to get her away from more talk of a spell. “Besides, when
we do decide to have children, I want a boy.” His balls drew up in anticipation. He nodded,
confirming the idea. A boy to carry on the name would be good. But as long as a child was
healthy that was all that mattered to him.
She smiled. “What will you name him?”
Again, he chuckled. It was way too soon to be having this conversation. “Hell, I don’t
know.”
“Oh, Malin.” With clutching fingers, she grasped a hold of his shoulders. “I really like
Scorpio for a boy.”
His chest rumbled with laughter. He ought to have known she liked the name Scorpio. He
caught her face between his palms to press a single kiss on her mouth. “I love you.”
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“Oh…” She pressed teasing lips to his. “Master, I love you more.”
About the Author
To learn more about Melissa Lopez, please visit
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readers as well as Melissa Lopez at
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Look for these titles by Melissa Lopez
Now Available:
Dark Sentinel
Boomerang Love
Coming Soon:
Riptide Love
His heart belongs to one trusting woman. But his soul belongs to Satan.
Dark Sentinel
© 2008 Melissa Lopez
Yanked from his tortured existence in Netherworld and dumped naked in the
Louisiana Bayou, Lash could swear he’s died and gone to heaven. Except for the fact that
a millennium ago he died a condemned soul, forever barred from Paradise. His new life
feels like the next best thing, full of small miracles. Like silence. And ice water. And the
company of a beautiful, compassionate woman.
Teva is a woman with a taste for heavy-metal music, an inherited talent for magic,
and a trusting heart. She knows nothing about the mysterious stranger she’s taken in, only
that he needs her help. And the fact that he’s gorgeous hasn’t escaped her attention. She
can’t see Lash as anything other than a sexy, gentle man who soothes her nightmares
away.
Then Lash learns the real reason for his reprieve from Netherworld—he’s been sent
to corrupt Teva’s soul with sinful pleasures. Starved for tenderness and aching with
desire, Lash yearns to accept the loving embrace Teva offers. But he can’t give in to
passion without tainting her, condemning her to the horrors of Netherworld.
The ultimate battle between good and evil is brewing, and Lash stands caught in the
middle between Teva, who owns his heart—and Satan, who owns his soul.
Enjoy the following excerpt for Dark Sentinel:
Lash landed on the ground with a bone-jarring thud, bouncing until he slammed
against an immovable object. Even if he could, he dared not move. What new form of
torture had his keepers invented to use on him? Until that moment, he’d been able to
ignore pain. It’d been centuries—no, eons—since he’d felt any emotions or sensations at
all, except pain, so he had built up a resistance to the physical reaction. At this moment,
the shock of it was a stark reality.
He moaned, fighting the agony. In his existence in Netherworld, he’d known every
type of severe abuse fitting for his kind. But never had he felt such suffering. Every bone
in his body must have shattered. Too much pain assailed him for them not to be.
He drew in another agonizing breath. Sleep. He willed sleep to claim him. He’d
never escape the continual cruelties heaped on him, yet thankfully he’d heal in the
slumber of nightmares.
“Hello. Hello. Can you hear me?” The whispered melody reached him from a great
distance.
He attempted to growl. He knew this trick well. His keepers tortured the legions
relentlessly with promise of concern, of care, only to rip it away.
“Shhh…You’ve got some nasty bruises.” Gentle hands eased him. “Lay still, I’ll go
get my jeep. I’ll take you to a hospital.”
He forced his eyes open, only to squeeze them shut against the blinding light. The
world he existed in was a gloomy place without such brightness. Yet even at his age he’d
not seen all of Netherworld. Through his eyelids the light caused discomfort. Still it was
the least of the pain racking his body.
He moaned, deep in his chest. Soft hands skimmed across a torso that couldn’t
possibly belong to him. His hide had long ago lost all sensitivity. But this gentle touch
had him shivering, in a way he’d never responded to the harshest of touches.
“My name is Teva Gibson. I’ll do what I can to help you.” Her voice was a whisper
as if she confided in him. Though running a race couldn’t have made her sound more
breathless.
He trembled. He’d been wrong. His keepers had found a new form of torture. They’d
sent a human female with soft skin and a delicate scent to him. No. It had to be a disguise.
Which tormentor was it this time? Was she Belial or one of her horde? His breathing
turned ragged. It could be any of the keepers. The demon lords were all devious, cunning,
beyond redemption.
Lash swallowed past the lump forming in his throat. When was the last time he’d
smelled anything other then the putrid bowels of darkness? It was a darkness filled with
every vile form of degradation, filth, and every sin imaginable. Not for a very long time,
that was for sure.
“Leave me,” he snarled half-heartedly, only to moan. He didn’t want her to leave,
even though her retribution would be fierce.
“Shhh…lie still. I don’t want to leave you…”
He inhaled deeply, hoping to catch a whiff of his keepers. Any moment now, she’d
rake her claws down his chest, or taunt his cock. The game never stopped for legion
lords.
Panic edged her voice. “What happened to you?”
Sweat beaded his upper lip as he waited. He feared breathing, much less speaking to
her. If he answered wrong, his punishment would be worse. Much worse
Soft hands caressed his shoulder and brow. “Just hang on. I’ll be back.”
At the sound of her disappearing footsteps, he rolled over, pushing up onto his hands
and knees. He kept his eyes closed, but it did no good; the dizziness came anyway. His
world spun, tilting as his stomach rolled. Groaning, he collapsed.
Teva’s mind was awhirl with the possibilities of what could have happened to the
stranger. While apparently weak from his injuries, there’d been something dangerous
about him—something more than his breathtaking masculinity. He had a hardness that
stole from his dark male perfection. Coal-black hair with eyes that matched and a jaw
darkened by a shadow of growth. And what a jaw line!
Then there was the rest of him… She swallowed, her body heating.
Nude.
Not likely she’d ever forget him lying there naked. Ridges and tight muscles sculpted
him from face to foot. God, she’d even noticed his feet. Huge feet. Heat spread along her
cheeks. Yes, Teva, you noticed that, too. His cock had been long, thick, and flaccid
between his muscular thighs.
Teva gritted her teeth as the jeep jolted over low rocks. She lived on a privately
owned park and wetland preserve in Louisiana, northeast of New Orleans. The Bayou
area—a melting pot—drew all types of people. People like her, who tried to hide from
the rest of the world. In the tradition of her forefathers.
How did he get out here?
A chill crawled up her spine, setting her hair on edge as she pushed the legends the
swamps were famous for from her mind. They were old wives’ tales, nothing more. She
focused on the more likely possibilities as she urged the four-wheeler forward.
Naked, he didn’t look like a hunter. Occasionally they poached on her land. They
wanted to brag about bagging an alligator or black bear and get a trophy to take home to
mount on their wall. Even nude, the stranger had seemed too clean for it, but what if he
was an escaped convict? She’d often heard stories passed down of prisoners running for
the shelter of the Bayou. Many of them never to be seen again after falling victim to the
mysteries of the swamp. Gators and the dark, brackish water had never been friendly to
those who didn’t respect them. Perhaps he was a victim of a kidnapping?
She shook her head to turn her thoughts away from the stranger. How he’d gotten out
here didn’t matter. She had to help him. She concentrated on maneuvering the jeep
around marshy areas until she reached the stranger’s side.
Killing the engine, she released a relieved breath. She’d worried she’d imagined him.
Another part of her wished she had. Her life would be easier. He’d moved while she’d
been gone. He now lay face-down. Her gaze lingered on the rounded curve of his butt.
She bet it would look as fine in clothes as out.
Don’t ogle an unconscious man!
Teva shivered as another chill raced up her spine. Her heart pounded in her chest.
She’d learned at an early age to follow her instincts. Kneeling, she glanced around.
Nothing. Except for the hidden creatures, they were alone.
Run.
Spanish moss dangling from the branches of the live oaks swirled, almost taunting
her with agitation. Her breath rushed out. Plenty of lore had been passed around about the
Bayou’s grayish-green tinsel. Some believed the natural decoration of the Bayou had a
life of its own, with its eerie atmosphere and use in Voodoo.
Her hands trembled. She almost pulled back from him, but forced herself to clasp his
shoulder, gently shaking him. “It’s me, Teva. I’m back.”
Flee while you can.
Teva’s breath caught as creatures plopped into the sleeping water of the nearby river.
Nervously, she scanned the area.
Nothing.
She concentrated on waking him. Again and again, she attempted to rouse him.
Finally, an inhuman sound of pain rumbled out of his chest.
On a gasp, she jerked her hands away. “Can…Can you hear me?”
What would you risk to make your darkest dream a reality?
Immortal Illusions
© 2008 Ursula Bauer
The Eternity Covenant book 2.
Outcast sorcerer Jack Madden has waited fifty years to take revenge against the
Council of Wardens for wrongly convicting him of a crime, binding his powers beyond
repair. When the Council turns to him to help retrieve four missing arcane artifacts, Jack
decides it’s his best shot at vengeance. And Raine Spencer—fearful of her power and
clueless about how to use it—is his perfect mystical surrogate and mark.
Raine loyally serves the Council of Wardens as a top Occult Operations Analyst, but
she longs to take the sacred oath and become a knight. With the taint of Elven blood in
her veins, she has a snowball’s chance in hell of making that dream a reality—until she is
chosen by “Mad Jack” to act as a mystical surrogate.
Raine is ready to face down her fear of her wild Elven side, and team up with the
most unprincipled scoundrel to ever haunt the halls of the Council of Wardens.
But is she ready to pay the price with her heart?
Enjoy the following excerpt for Immortal Illusions:
As if she heard him speaking his indecent thoughts, she stirred, and turned to gaze at
him. “Jack’s not the only one with a price.”
Kerr drew in a deep breath. Hugh looked suddenly alarmed. Jack grew more curious.
What secret agenda did his little surrogate with the mysterious grey eyes hide that had
everyone so on edge? He hoped it was suitably scandalous.
“That’s right, gentleman,” he said smoothly. “The lady has a price and it will be met.
We are, after all, partners.”
Ramon appeared truly interested in this new turn of events. “You didn’t tell me this
when I first approached you, Raine.”
She licked her pretty lips, a motion that made Jack’s blood run thick.
“I needed time to consider what it was I most wanted.” Raine’s voice was clear and
strong. As she spoke, power and passion welled inside of her. He wanted to break the
physical contact, but he couldn’t resist the lure of her. She called to him in a way he’d not
heard in a very long time, and suddenly he wondered if he’d not gotten himself in too
deep.
“I want the chance at knighthood.” She continued with her demands, her voice
echoing into the quiet room, sounding distinctly like a glove being slapped across an
enemy’s face in challenge. “If I’m to do this for the Covenant, they must make an
exception to the rules. They must accept me to squire and give me the chance to prove
my worth, earn my spurs and don the chains of fealty.”
Jack’s soul warmed over. Raine was playing brilliantly. He was hard-pressed not to
jump up and clap. Her demand was far more outrageous than his own, one if met that
would throw the Council of Wardens deep into the darkest, foulest scandal yet. Imagine
that, a half-breed knight. He wanted to laugh out loud, to dance around the table, to kiss
her for her audacity. He wanted to kiss her to satisfy his own longings, to know if she
tasted as unpredictably wonderful as her spirit hinted.
Kerr began to shake violently, so much so, Hugh had to steady him. “No one will
sponsor this vermin as squire,” Kerr bellowed. “We are the Wardens. We must protect
the Eternity Covenant. We must be pure. Clean. Beyond reproach. The half-breed soul is
stained with the taint. She’s nothing but a savage.”
Jack, never known in the first place for his self control, lost what little of it he’d
managed to muster for today’s performance. “You’re calling us savage? You were born
on the dirt floor of some mud-walled hovel and spent the first part of your mortal life
killing villagers to ensure fertility in the fields. Now that is some seriously backwards,
savage stuff. If anyone has a stained soul, I think it’s you, Druid.”
Kerr actually lunged for Jack, but Hugh held him fast by the shoulder. “I’ll see you
damned for that,” raged the Elder Warden. “When this is all over, I’ll make you pay.”
Ramon seemed unmoved by it all. He smoothed out an imaginary wrinkle on his
expensive suit, then cleared his throat again, silencing his counterpart. “I’d be happy to
sponsor you, Raine. My paladin, Uller, will take you as squire.”
An uneasy silence fell over the room. Raine removed her hand from Jack’s. She
nodded stiffly. “I accept your offer, Ramon Salazar. I assure you that you’ll not regret
this.”
Kerr continued to sputter and rant. Jack sensed a dangerous change in the climate of
the room. The demand was crazy enough, but Ramon’s rapid agreement was sheer
insanity. A line in the sand had just been drawn, marking a war amongst the ranks of the
High Wardens. Naturally, Ramon had been the one to etch it, but to do so easily spoke of
other issues at work. Raine appeared untouched by it all, but her uncle held in check a
barely suppressed rage, and Jack noted he could not meet his niece’s eyes.
“So we’re in agreement. Should we get down to the fine points, then?”
Salazar looked to Jack, then to Kerr, and a strange light came into his cold black
eyes. “Jack, Raine, we’ll meet up later at my brownstone this afternoon to work out our
particulars. If you’ll give us some privacy, Kerr and I have other matters to discuss.”
This confirmed Jack’s suspicion. Something was going on, something wild and
juicy. Ramon looked up to no good right now. Jack itched to be back in the thick of it,
something he’d never imagined possible. “Time’s wasting, Ramon. Let’s ink the deal.”
“Later, Jack. Plenty of time this afternoon.” There was a finality in the dismissal that
didn’t allow for argument.
Jack shrugged. One door shut for now, but he’d find another. “Fine. So glad we
could have this little reunion.”
Raine appeared equally as startled by the turn of events, but did manage to say a civil
goodbye to her uncle and his crazy boss. She followed Jack into the antechamber.
With the last of his energy, he used the residual magic from the first spell to blow
open the doors to the hall, and they walked by a stunned Wiggans and his security team.
There was a good deal of ranting from Wiggans, resulting in an armed escort as they
waited for, and then boarded the elevator. Raine stayed silent and stoic. Jack made some
cracks to the security force, but they didn’t respond to his half-hearted attempts.
“I’m sorry you had to deal with that prize ass,” he said to Raine when they stepped
outside the Warden’s building. The words came out stilted and sounded idiotic, but he
felt he had to say something. He was trying to figure all the angles, including hers. “You
were right to ask for the moon. You’re risking your life for them. They owe you.”
“I’m not doing it for them. I’m doing it for me.” She broke free of his hold and
stepped clear of him as if he carried the plague. “Just like you, Jack. I’m in it for me.”
The road to hell is paved with good intentions. Or is that wicked seductions?
Devil Take Me
© 2008 Anna J. Evans
Annie Theophilus is used to life not going her way, but now the future is looking
bright. She’s engaged and finally getting her happily-ever-after—until she catches her
fiancé cheating. The garage seems to be the safest place for a well-deserved crying jag.
Instead, it proves to be a portal from hell, out of which a sexy denizen of the underworld
has just emerged.
Namtar, one-time death-bringer to mortals, has come through an Earth portal for one
thing—power. If he can convince a human to willingly sacrifice mortality for eternity in
the Underworld, he will gain the power he needs to get the queen off her throne and
secure a future for his people.
But Annie’s seduction doesn’t go as smoothly as planned. Somehow she steals a
piece of his heart, and he finds himself struggling with a depth of feeling he’s never
known. Now, thanks to his own hesitation, they’re on the run from a murderous ex-fiancé
and a few enraged demons.
How can he ask her to give him her soul—when all he can offer her is pain?
Warning: This book contains sex in a garage, sex on the run, and shades of BDSM
experimentation between willing partners as well as graphic depictions of an insane
demon queen punishing her male and female lovers with stuff that puts the ick in icky…I
mean kinky.
Enjoy the following excerpt for Devil Take Me:
Annie smiled and grabbed his keys from the dish by the door, happy they seemed to
have made up so quickly. Sometimes their fights lasted for days, leaving her a mass of
nervous symptoms by the time Roger finally quit brooding around the condo and
slamming in and out of the door.
She took the stairs down to their garage at a trot, feeling decidedly more light hearted
and even a little excited to go on her errand. Roger rarely let her drive his sporty little
silver Mercedes and it was fun to roll back the top on the convertible and let the wind
blow through her curls. Heck, she might even get a bottle of wine to go with Roger’s
beer. It had been a long time since she’d had her favorite chardonnay and her class didn’t
meet until eleven o’clock in the morning.
She could sleep in a little if she felt fuzzy, even though she had been getting up at six
thirty to cook Roger breakfast. She didn’t want him to feel resentful that she got such a
long summer break and lawyering stopped for no man or season. But one morning
probably wouldn’t matter.
Ten minutes later, she was pulling up to the liquor store, still smiling from the feel of
the summer sun on her face and the wind in her hair, when she realized she’d forgotten
her purse. Again.
Roger was going to kill her. Her scatterbrained tendencies drove him crazy. She was
always forgetting her purse or locking her keys in the car or leaving school without the
stack of papers she was supposed to grade. Annie blamed it on an overactive imagination
but Roger saw it as a sign of less-than-desirable mental health.
The last thing she needed was the “maybe you need to get on some sort of
medication” talk again. She knew some people needed medicine to get by, to battle
depression or stabilize their moods, but she didn’t think she was one of those people. She
was happy most of the time, and she never endangered anyone with her forgetfulness.
Frantically, she searched through Roger’s ashtray and the little hidey-hole between
the bucket seats. After two or three minutes and a very undignified hunt underneath the
seats themselves, she managed to scrape up nearly six dollars. It was enough for the beer,
but not the wine she’d been looking forward to. Still, given the choice between wine and
a night free from ranting about her space cadet tendencies, she knew exactly which one
she’d choose.
With a sigh of relief, she locked the car and dashed into the store. She grabbed
Roger’s favorite brew and headed to the checkout, already planning her excuse as to why
she hadn’t filled up the car. She would just tell Roger the gas station on the corner had
been out of the Premium brand and she hadn’t wanted his beer to get hot. Then she’d pop
the top on one of his bottles, discretely grab her purse and head back out to the car. A
little falsehood, but nothing that would keep her up at night wallowing in her own guilt.
“ID please,” the clerk at the counter said, with a look that said she doubted Annie
was old enough to buy cigarettes, let alone alcohol.
“I’m thirty, I swear to God on a stack of Bibles, cross my heart and hope to die. I
know I look young but it’s just because I’ve gained weight. I promise I’ll come in and
show you my ID tomorrow but I forgot my purse. See, I was even going to pay with
change from the car,” Annie babbled with a laugh as she held up the three rumpled
dollars and fistful of quarters she had managed to scrounge from the floorboards of the
Mercedes.
“Sorry, I can’t do that.” The woman didn’t look sorry, she looked supremely
disinterested, barely sparing Annie a second glance before she turned her attention back
to her long, fire engine red nails. The nails even had little flames on the tips, making
Annie wonder if the clerk was trying to project a she-witch-from-hell image or if it was
merely a lucky coincidence her manicure reflected her personality.
“Listen, my fiancé had a really, really bad day and is dying for a beer. He’s going to
be really upset if I don’t come back with a cold six-pack. Can’t you please let me pay for
these so I can go?” Annie begged, imploring the clerk with her best gooey-brown-eyed
stare.
“I can’t risk it, sorry.”
People who said they were sorry, but weren’t—sucked.
“Okay, fine. I’ll be back in a few minutes, after I go get my ID—which I promise is
going to show that I’m thirty.” Annie managed to keep all but the slightest bit of
frustration from seeping into her tone. She knew the woman was only being cautious, but
a little compassion would have been welcome.
“Whatever.”
Then she had the gall to yawn, without even bothering to cover her mouth.
Annie held her tongue and stomped back to the car. No sense wasting her energy
with a person like that. She’d look on the bright side instead. At least she could buy a
bottle of wine if she went back and got her purse. She was really craving a glass and a
little chardonnay buzz would help keep her from taking Roger’s inevitable lecture too
seriously.
So it happened that Annie found herself pulling back into her condominium complex
a good twenty minutes before she should have been. And so, it also happened, that she
turned the corner to her garage just in time to see Carla open her door and a man in a
rumpled black dress shirt and grey suit pants—a man who looked incredibly like her very
own Roger—step out onto the front stoop.
And so also did she witness, with her very own eyes, Carla and Annie’s fiancé
engaged in a kiss that could never be confused as friendly. Carla’s tongue was halfway
down Roger’s throat and his hand was caressing Carla’s bare thigh, sliding up to
disappear underneath her too short skirt.
“No.” Annie felt the world spin around her as her hands tightened on the wheel.
This couldn’t be happening. Roger couldn’t be running across the complex for
quickies with Carla. Her dreams weren’t crashing and burning right in front of her eyes.
The engagement ring on her finger meant something. It meant Roger loved her, wanted to
marry her, wanted her and no other woman for the rest of their lives.
Or so she had thought, dreamed, counted on with every last ounce of her being. Her
luck was supposed to have changed for the better. Finally, bad luck Annie was going to
see that one wonderful dream she had prayed for since she was a little girl become a
reality.
But it wasn’t going to happen. She’d lost out again, proving everything she touched
took a turn for the worse.
Suddenly a wave of despair and anger swept over her skin with enough heat to start a
fire. Her vision blurred, and she was hardly aware that her foot began to ease off the
brake and back onto the gas. The only thing Annie would remember when giving her
report to the police was that she had been making a wish over the sound of the screeching
tires. To please let her find herself anywhere but here, anywhere but still stuck in her own
body, forced to pick up the pieces of what was left of her happy ever after.
Samhain Publishing, Ltd.
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