Charlie Richards (Wolves of Stone Ridge #17) Freeing Demitri's Wolf

Out of the cage: Blood might be thicker than water, but
sometimes doing what’s best for you means going against
your family.

Demitri Vinetti knows his parents believe his claim that he’s
gay is an act of rebellion. But when Demitri scents Kiernan
Wabinaw at the diner where he works and the human keeps
coming back again and again, he’s certain he’s found his
mate, a male mate, proving Fate’s on his side. Getting advice
from friends, Demitri digs deep for courage and asks
Kiernan on a date.

Kiernan is shocked and flattered that such a handsome

young man would take an interest in him, especially since
his forty-fifth birthday is just around the corner. He’s been
fantasizing about Demitri since first spotting him at the
diner a couple of weeks ago, and he’s happy to take him up
on his offer.

When Kiernan learns that Demitri’s parents beat him for

going on a date with him, he discovers protective instincts
he’s never known before. But the fact that Demitri’s less than
half his age and his parents are abusive is only the first of
many shockers. Will Kiernan be able to accept that shifters
exist? Or will he chalk Demitri up as too much trouble and
run the other way?

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This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and
incidents either are products of the author’s imagination or
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Freeing Demitri’s Wolf

ISBN: 978-1-77111-498-1

Cover art by Angela Waters

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Freeing Demitri’s Wolf

Wolves of Stone Ridge: Book Seventeen

Charlie Richards

To Kevin – Your kind words and friendly support remind me why

I started writing in the first place.

Chapter One

iernan Wabinaw pretended to read his menu. Instead,
his stared over the rim of his reading glasses, and the

cardboard square listing the food selections, and watched
his young waiter. He imagined the slender man had toned,
lean muscle—maybe from running—and a six-pack hidden
under the white button-downed top and apron. Maybe he—
Demitri, the nametag read—swung Kiernan’s way. Except,
why would a young man as handsome, beautiful, and
sensual as Demitri want a middle aged construction worker
like Kiernan?

And why the hell do I find the light touch of blush and eye

shadow, not to mention the gleam of lip gloss so sexy?

Forcing his gaze away from his young waiter, and trying

not to feel like a total perv, Kiernan half heartily focused on
his menu. Because, really, he knew it by heart. Once he’d
started coming here nearly three weeks ago, he hadn’t been
able to stop. He tried to pretend he kept coming back
because of the wonderful omelets, but deep in his heart,
Kiernan knew the truth.

It was a certain waiter with white-blond hair, smooth pale

skin and intense jade-colored eyes that kept drawing
Kiernan back. Not that he could admit that to anyone but
himself.

Laying his menu on the table, Kiernan decided maybe his

daughter was right. He really did need to get laid. Obsessing
over a man probably less than half his age couldn’t be good

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for him. Thinking of getting laid and Demitri in the same
thought had a predictable impact on his dick, namely,
sprouting wood.

Kiernan shifted in his seat, always shocked at how

quickly he got an erection just from seeing and thinking
about the young man. Demitri got him hotter than any
person, man or woman, had in the last decade. Dropping his
hand under the table, he adjusted himself, the touch on his
dick reminded him of last night.

Flopping onto the couch with a beer, Kiernan clicked the

TV on and started channel surfing. While taking a sip of his
brew, he spotted a blond on the cover of a magazine sitting
on his end table. Immediately, his thoughts turned to
Demitri. He groaned and closed his eyes in frustration.

The young man’s lean form seemed to instantly super-

impose itself on the backs of his eyelids. He imagined
Demitri standing in his living room, lust gleaming in his
green eyes. Slowly, one long-fingered hand slid down his
chest, then dipped into the waistband of his jeans.

Kiernan’s cock had thickened swiftly as his imaginary

Demitri had used his thumb, the only finger still visible, to
flip open the button on his jeans. With his other hand, he
lifted the edge of his shirt. The move showed off a white,
soft-looking treasure trail that ran from his belly button to
disappear between the V created by the opening in his pants,
showing off the top strands of his downy pubic hairs.

Groaning, Kiernan struggled to breathe.

The crash of a dish on kitchen linoleum yanked Kiernan

out of his memory.

“Holy shit,” he muttered under his breath. Just the

thought of how he’d jacked off to his imaginary Demitri last
night had his shaft harder than a rock and guilt flooding his

Freeing Demitri’s Wolf

system. He struggled to keep the heat from creeping up his
chest to his face.

Kiernan noticed Demitri looking his way and quickly

focused his gaze on his water glass. Grabbing it, he took a
deep swallow, trying to soothe his suddenly dry throat. A
shadow fell over his table, and Kiernan couldn’t help
smiling up at Demitri, enjoying how the young man smiled
back at him.

“Are you ready to order?” Demitri asked him.
Are you on the menu?
The man’s voice sounded breathy and soft and went

straight to Kiernan’s dick. He really wanted to reach down
and adjust himself, again, but knew that would be wholly
inappropriate. “Yeah, I think I’ll get the meatloaf sandwich
with a loaded baked potato.”

Demitri nodded. “Anything else to drink?” he asked,

nodding toward the glass.

He shook his head. “No, thank you. The water’s fine.” He

racked his brain, trying to figure out what he could say to
extend Demitri’s time at his table. “Have you worked here
long?”

That is so lame!
His cell phone rang, saving him from embarrassing

himself further. Kiernan pulled his gaze away from the cute
young man and yanked his phone out of his shirt pocket.
Valerie, his daughter.

“I’ll get your order put in,” Demitri murmured, slipping

away before Kiernan could do more than nod.

Answering his phone, he greeted, “Hey, sweetie. What’s

up?”

“Hey, Dad,” Valerie greeted. “How are you?”
“Oh, fine,” Kiernan replied, smiling faintly at her

question. He wondered what was up. It wasn’t often his
daughter didn’t get right to the point. “Just stopped into the

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diner for lunch.”

“Again? Didn’t you get lunch there yesterday?”
Kiernan grinned. He placed his reading glasses on the

table and took a surreptitious glance toward his waiter, who
was now making the rounds of his tables with a pitcher of
water. “Yeah, it’s close to the job site,” he said, although it
wasn’t completely true. The diner had been close to his prior
job site, but he’d moved to a new task last week.

“Dad, you really shouldn’t eat there every day. All that

greasy food isn’t good for you. At your age, you should be
watching your diet.”

Scowling, Kiernan glared at the table. “Valerie, I do. Is

there a reason you called? My waiter is bringing my food,”
he lied. He had no desire for her to remind him of his age,
especially since his daughter was twenty-four and most
definitely older than the object of his obsession.

Valerie huffed a sigh, and Kiernan could just imagine her

rolling her eyes at him. “Look, I called because I know it’s
your birthday this weekend, and I’m not going to be able to
get out there,” she admitted. “Can I take you to dinner next
week?”

“Oh, uh, yeah, sweetie. That’s fine. Everything all right?”

he asked, becoming worried. His daughter lived in Colorado
Springs in the dorms of her college. It was several hours
away, and he and Valerie made a point of getting together at
least once a month. This time, it was supposed to be for his
birthday. He was turning forty-five.

“Yeah, it’s fine,” she assured. “I just have exams next

week and…well, I should really focus on studying. It’s a
couple of tough classes this go round.”

His daughter was very ambitious and wanted to be a

CPA. It stood to reason she’d want to focus on school. April
was a busy time of year for college students. “I understand.
I’ll see you next weekend,” he said, trying not to let his

Freeing Demitri’s Wolf

disappointment show in his voice.

“Thanks for understanding, Dad.”
“No, problem, sweetie.”
After hanging up the phone, Kiernan leaned back in his

seat and sighed. He figured he could still go to the gym for
his usual Thursday night routine. Accepting a foreman
position for a construction company in the small town of
Stone Ridge had done a world of good for his income—
making it far easier to pay for his daughter’s college
courses—but he didn’t get as much exercise as he used to
while working as an underling at a larger company in
Colorado Springs. He’d turned down multiple promotions
over the years simply because he liked the manual labor. His
daughter had showed him the ad for this position and urged
him to apply, once more pointing out his increasing age.

Demitri appeared with the pitcher of water and refilled

his glass, drawing Kiernan’s attention. Looking up into
Demitri’s eyes, Kiernan smiled and nodded his thanks,
surreptitiously enjoying the muscles playing under his toned
arm as he reached across the table. Demitri smiled back
tentatively and, if Kiernan didn’t miss his guess, stared at
him from beneath his lashes. It looked flirtatious.

Could he be just as interested?
“Hey, Demitri!”
Demitri straightened and turned toward the jovial call,

breaking their stare. Jealousy coursed through Kiernan at the
way the young man smiled warmly at the two men coming
toward them, which he knew was completely ridiculous.
Putting the odd reaction aside, Kiernan looked at the pair,
impressed with the first guy’s large size and the way he had
his arm around the second man. An openly gay couple.
Interesting.

He’d heard that a number of gay men made their home in

and around Stone Ridge, but most were discreet about it.

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“Hey, guys,” Demitri greeted. “What are you up to

tonight?”

The second man, a slender dark-haired guy smiled, his

lips pressed thin since he kept his teeth hidden, and nodded
toward the other man. “Frankie wanted to see a movie, so
we thought we’d make a night of it,” he said.

“Sounds like fun. Grab a booth and I’ll be right there,”

Demitri said, pointing.

The big guy, Frankie, grinned and did as instructed

quickly, flopping onto the bench seat so hard it made the
entire booth shake. The slender guy and Demitri snickered
at his antics.

When Demitri turned back to look at him, for just a

second, Kiernan found himself the recipient of the young
man’s brilliant smile. His heart felt like it skipped a beat.
“Sorry about that. I’ll go check on your food now,” Demitri
told him, his voice soft, sounding almost like liquid silk.

“No problem,” Kiernan managed, pleased his voice came

out mostly normal. As Demitri walked away, he couldn’t
help but check out the sexy young man’s firm round ass.

* * * *

Demitri had never been so relieved that the short, pocketed
apron was part of his uniform than when Kiernan had
started coming to the diner. The first time he’d scented the
man, his wolf, which normally lay placid in the back of his
mind unless he was getting ready to run with other shifters,
had yipped loudly and wanted to tackle the guy and rub
their scent all over him, marking Kiernan as their own.

Never had Demitri needed to force his wolf into

submission until that day. With Kiernan returning nearly
every day, Demitri knew the human felt their connection
too, at least in some unconscious way. Unfortunately,

Freeing Demitri’s Wolf

Demitri was woefully inexperienced with any sort of flirting
or seduction, and Kiernan was a middle-aged human. He
had no idea if the man would take his advances seriously, no
matter what his scent told him.

He also didn’t understand how he could find his mate so

early in life. What if he was misunderstanding his body’s
urges because he was young and perpetually horny?

Demitri made his way to Frankie and Vince’s table.

Frankie, a big wolf shifter, had taught Demitri how to accept
his wolf, allowing him to shift faster. At first, he hadn’t
known what to think of Frankie’s vampire mate, Vince, and
had even been a little scared of him, if he were honest, but
after knowing them for a couple of months, he thought the
guy was all right.

They’d given him the courage to go to pack runs without

his mother, Rachel, much to the displeasure and yelling of
his father, Cooper. Demitri had heard more than an earful
from them about how his new friends were a bad influence,
but then anyone who encouraged him to embrace his wolf or
accepted the fact that he was gay was a bad influence.

Rachel was a wolf shifter just like him, but over the years,

she’d adopted Cooper’s beliefs. Mainly, shifting was
unnatural and should be avoided at all costs and being
homosexual was an abomination. Demitri had no idea why
they’d stayed in Alpha Declan McIntire’s pack when he
came out and took a male mate.

He often entertained the idea of moving out, but he had to

make certain he had enough money first. There was no way
he wanted to end up cash poor and have to go crawling back
to them. That’s why he worked every extra shift at the diner
he could.

“Hey, guys,” he greeted Frankie and Vince quietly,

glancing between them. “What movie are you going to see
after this?”

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“Something with explosions,” Frankie replied, grinning.
Vince gave his lover an indulgent smile, then turned his

attention to Demitri. His expression changed to a sly look,
and he sniffed discreetly. “We know that’s not for us,” he
said, his voice low. Vince glanced at Demitri’s apron covered
crotch. “Someone in here you got your eye on?”

Demitri blushed, and he just knew his fair skin glowed

red. He swallowed hard, as his tongue tied in his mouth.

“Don’t embarrass him,” Frankie scolded, coming to his

defense. He whapped his lover lightly on the chest with the
back of his hand. To Demitri’s mortification, Frankie
continued, “It’s probably the broad-shouldered human two
booths over. I can smell his arousal from here.” Frankie
grinned up at him and winked. “You two got a thing going
on?”

“No,” he immediately denied. “I—” Demitri glanced

around furtively, then lowered his voice further. “I think
he’s my mate. He’s been coming here almost every day for
the last two and a half weeks.”

“Hey, that’s great!”
Frankie responded a little too loudly for Demitri’s liking,

and he shushed the other shifter. When the big man’s brows
shot up, he realized what he’d done. Demitri had never
ordered a more dominant wolf to do anything, even
something so small as to lower his voice.

A shiver of dread passed through his body, and he

lowered his gaze submissively. He could feel his wolf cower
in the back of his mind. Chairs scraped across the floor.
Frankie’s big hand landed on the back of his neck. The other
man leaned close as he massaged Demitri’s tight tendons.

“Calm down, Demitri. We’re in public,” Frankie

whispered. “I’d never chastise you, especially for something
like that.”

Demitri nodded, then glancing at Frankie, he saw the

Freeing Demitri’s Wolf

shifter’s encouraging smile and returned it with a tentative
one of his own. “Sorry. I—I’m not—” Strong? Big?
Dominant? Demitri wasn’t sure how he wanted to end that
sentence.

Frankie didn’t seem to need him to. He squeezed

Demitri’s neck again. “I know. What are you going to do
about your smoking hot silver fox over there?” he asked
quietly.

Sighing, Demitri answered honestly, “I have no idea. I’ve

never—I’ve never dated anyone before.” He looked into
Frankie’s eyes imploringly. “I don’t know what to do.”

Suddenly, Vince was on Frankie’s other side, pulling him

away and urging him back to his seat. “We’re drawing
attention,” he whispered by way of explanation. “Take our
orders, get us both a soda. While you do that, we’ll come up
with an idea or two to get you a date with your man.”

Demitri nodded, then took their orders and hurried to get

their drinks. He’d been drawing a blank about what to do
about Kiernan for more than two weeks. It was nice that his
friends were willing to give him a hand, because he needed
all the help he could get.

Charlie Richards

Chapter Two

iernan watched through narrowed eyes as Demitri
nodded and headed back toward the kitchen. When

the big man, Frankie, had risen and loomed over Demitri,
Kiernan had almost stood and approached them. He’d been
surprised at his urge to protect the younger man and just
barely held himself in check. He’d only ever felt that way
about his daughter and wasn’t certain how to assimilate
those feelings for a nearly complete stranger.

Still, Kiernan really wished he could have known what

they’d whispered about. One minute, Demitri appeared
happy, then tension pulled him tighter than a bowstring,
followed by what could only be described as relief. Kiernan
hated puzzles, and his responses to Demitri were just that.

That knowledge didn’t stop his heart from speeding up or

his throat from going dry as Demitri once again approached
his table. Demitri set his meal in front of him, offering him a
shy smile.

“Here you are,” Demitri said. “Is there anything else I can

get you right now?”

“Thank you,” he said, glancing at his plate. “No,

everything looks great.” Kiernan knew it was none of his
business, but he couldn’t resist asking, “Everything okay?
You looked a little upset there for a few minutes.”

“Oh, yeah,” Demitri replied, almost too quickly.

Freeing Demitri’s Wolf

Kiernan knew it was foolish, but for some reason, he felt

disappointed that the young man didn’t confide in him.
Forcing a smile, he nodded. “Good.”

When Demitri didn’t move off right away, Kiernan held

his gaze and gave him an encouraging smile, wondering
what the young man planned to say.

Demitri swallowed hard, and Kiernan watched his

Adam’s apple bob. His pink tongue swiped over his lower
lip, and Kiernan fought the urge to yank the man down onto
his lap so he could trace the same path with his own tongue.

Finally, Demitri peered at him through his thick black

lashes—as if looking at him directly would be too difficult—
and said, “I’m not really good at this.” He paused and
glanced toward his friends before returning focus to
Kiernan. “My shift ends at six this evening. Would you be
interested in meeting me for dinner? I’d like to get to know
you better.”

His words finished on a whisper, and Kiernan stared in

stunned silence for several seconds. His heart pounded in
his chest. Lust slammed through him as he realized Demitri
was asking him out. Demitri swings my way and wants to meet

me outside the diner.

“Never mind,” Demitri mumbled, tugging Kiernan out of

his thoughts.

Kiernan grabbed at Demitri’s wrist before he could make

a hasty retreat. “Wait,” he ordered. Demitri actually
shivered at the command in his tone, his mouth opening
slightly as he took panting breathes.

Oh, he likes being ordered around.
He filed that little tidbit away for future reference.

Loosening his grip, Kiernan rubbed his thumb over the
pulse point on Demitri’s wrist, enjoying caressing the
smooth, warm skin. “I would very much like to get to know
you, too, Demitri,” he replied softly. “Would you like me to

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pick you up here?”

Demitri’s green eyes widened, dominating his face, and a

surprised expression crossed his features. Evidently, he
hadn’t thought Kiernan would agree. If only the young man
knew what Kiernan really wanted to do to him. He didn’t
delude himself into thinking Demitri would be interested in
him for long, but if he could enjoy his sweet body for a time,
he’d be foolish to let the opportunity pass.

Smiling shyly, Demitri shook his head. “I’ll smell like

fried food if you did that. How about we meet somewhere at
seven? That way I can get cleaned up.”

Kiernan wanted to tell Demitri that he could smell like

wet dog and he wouldn’t care, but that was something he
didn’t need to share just yet. He nodded. “Where would you
like to meet? Caribou’s?” The place had good food and a
semi-private atmosphere.

Demitri agreed. “I’d like that.”
“Good.” Kiernan squeezed Demitri’s wrist lightly, then

released the man. “I’ll see you then.” Watching his date
retreat from the table, Kiernan reveled in the fact that he’d
put that smile on the man’s face. And he really looked
forward to learning more about Demitri.

He ate quickly, knowing he had to get back to the job site

soon. He and Demitri didn’t say much else to each other, but
as Demitri rang him up at the register, he looked at him
shyly, a light flush staining his cheeks, making the light
blush he wore darken becomingly, and stated quietly, “I’ll
see you later.”

Kiernan grinned. “Looking forward to it.”
When he got back to the job-site, Kiernan set his hard hat

on his head, strapped his tool belt around his waist, and
grabbed his clipboard. He started looking over the work
they had accomplished that morning. Everything seemed to
be running smoothly.

Freeing Demitri’s Wolf

“Hey, boss man. You must have had some lunch,” Joe

commented, walking up behind him. Joe slapped him on his
back. “Surely diner food isn’t that good.”

Kiernan laughed. “Nope. Just having a good day, that’s

all,” he replied, unwilling to share his good fortune with
anyone just yet, let alone Joe. He wasn’t in the closet by any
means, nor did he advertise his sexuality, but if anyone
asked directly, he wouldn’t lie. “I’d like to start in here,
next,” Kiernan said, changing the subject.

Shoving his hands in his pockets, Kiernan stood outside

the restaurant. He looked around slowly, watching the
meager traffic. Kiernan pulled out his phone and checked
the time. Demitri still had five minutes.

Kiernan’s stomach tightened with nerves. He couldn’t

remember the last time he’d been this nervous. He rolled his
eyes at himself. He was almost forty-five years old. He
shouldn’t be this nervous, like a teenager picking up his date
for the prom.

“Hi.”
Kiernan started and spun. Upon seeing Demitri, he

couldn’t stop his grin. The man looked good enough to eat
in form-fitting black jeans and short-sleeved, button-down
slate-gray shirt. He’d done his pale blond hair in an artfully
messy do and added a hint of eyeliner, eye shadow, and
blush. The effect was stunning, bringing out Demitri’s
vibrant green eyes.

“Hey,” Kiernan greeted. He wanted to pull Demitri into a

hug, maybe kiss him, but he wasn’t certain Demitri would
welcome that quite yet. Instead, he held out his hand. “I’m
glad you made it.”

Demitri smiled and they exchanged a firm shake.
He loathed letting the long-fingered, surprisingly

calloused hand go, but he did it. Turning toward the

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entrance, Kiernan pulled open the door, holding it open for
his young date. As Demitri passed him, Kiernan rested a
hand lightly on the small of his back. He liked the smile the
simple touch earned him, and he really liked how Demitri
seemed to lean into his touch.

“Two this evening?” the hostess asked, smiling at first

Demitri, then Kiernan.

Her gaze returned to Demitri, and Kiernan almost

growled at the coy look that she gave him. Even though his
date appeared oblivious to the young woman’s interest, he
still couldn’t help snapping, “Yes, table for two.”

“Of course. This way,” she replied.
His hand once again resting on Demitri’s lower back,

Kiernan urged the young man to follow her. With Demitri’s
back to him, Kiernan discreetly leaned forward and sniffed
his companion. The earthy, masculine scent pleased his
senses, and he just stopped himself from leaning closer to
get a better whiff.

“Is this acceptable?” the woman asked, pointing at a table

in the middle of the floor set up with four chairs.

Kiernan didn’t care for that seating arrangement at all. He

wanted someplace more private, where they could talk more
intimately. Kiernan wanted to get to know Demitri and
being out in the open like this just wouldn’t cut it. He
spotted several empty booths to his right, lining the wall.

Demitri stepped forward to sit, but Kiernan moved his

hand to his shoulder. The hold immediately stopped
Demitri’s progress, surprising and pleasing Kiernan with the
man’s responsiveness. He unconsciously rubbed his thumb
over the nape of Demitri’s neck as he wondered briefly how
that would translate to the bedroom. Pushing the distracting
thought aside, he focused on the hostess.

“No,” Kiernan stated. Motioning toward the empty

booths with his free hand, he insisted, “I’d prefer one of

Freeing Demitri’s Wolf

those.”

The woman’s brows shot up. She glanced between them,

obviously reassessing their possible relationship. Kiernan
met her gaze levelly. “O-okay,” she stammered.

Once they were seated, the hostess stated, “Peter will be

your waiter tonight. He’ll be with you shortly.”

Kiernan nodded. Before leaving, she glanced once more at

Demitri, but he still wasn’t paying her any attention. That
pleased Kiernan…a lot. He reached across the table and
placed his hand over Demitri’s. “Thank you for asking me
out tonight. I’m very flattered.”

Demitri blushed, his green-eyed gaze focusing on where

Kiernan held his hand. “I’m glad. I…” He glanced up at
Kiernan and smiled shyly. “I wasn’t sure if you’d accept,” he
admitted.

Cocking his head, Kiernan took a chance and told him,

“I’m still trying to figure out what someone so young and
handsome as yourself sees in a guy like me, but I’m willing
to not look a gift horse in the mouth.”

The smile still in place, Demitri ducked his head. “How

could anyone not be interested?” he said softly.

Kiernan chuckled, low in his throat. “Thanks.”
Not wanting to make his date any more uncomfortable,

he opened his menu, slipped on his reading glasses, and
perused the selections. He normally ended up getting a steak
or burger when he came, but the ribs seemed to be calling
his name tonight. “What are you interested in tonight?”

Demitri glanced up from where he looked at his own

menu. “I’m not sure. I’m thinking their sixteen-ounce rib eye
would be fantastic. Maybe with their onion strings and
baked apples.”

Wow! Where would he put all that?
Before he could voice the comment, their waiter

appeared. “Good evening, gentlemen. I’m Peter and I’ll be

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your waiter for the evening,” he said, smiling at each of
them in turn. “Can I start you with some drinks? Flavored
lemonades or something from the bar?”

Kiernan lifted a hand, indicating Demitri could order first.

“I’ll take iced tea, unsweetened,” Demitri told the waiter.

“Very good. And you, sir?” the waiter responded, looking

at him.

“What beer do you have on tap?” Kiernan asked.
The waiter answered, and Kiernan chose one. Before Peter

could leave, Kiernan added, “I’d like your loaded potato
skins as an appetizer.”

Peter grinned. “Good choice. I’ll get that started for you.”
When he slipped the glasses back in his pocket, he caught

Demitri watching the move. He smiled ruefully. “Sometimes
getting old sucks.”

“You use them just for reading?” Demitri asked curiously.
Kiernan nodded, wondering at the way the other man

eyed his pocket.

“They look good on you.” Even as Demitri complimented

Kiernan, he blushed a bit.

Kiernan grinned. “Thank you.”
Their drinks arrived and they placed their orders.
After taking a sip of his beer, Kiernan returned his focus

to Demitri. He peered at his date, trying not to groan at the
way Demitri licked a smidge of sour cream off his lip, and
asked, “I take it I’m not going to be sharing a beer with you
for a while?”

Demitri hesitated for just a second, then admitted, “I turn

twenty in a couple months.” His smile turned bitter, “My
mother already gives me enough shit. I don’t need to add to
it by doing something illegal.”

It was a good answer, except…from what Kiernan had

seen, Demitri was responsible and sensible, especially for
one so young. “Would it be prying to ask what has her so

Freeing Demitri’s Wolf

upset?” Realization hit him and he frowned. “Is it the gay
thing?”

Shrugging, Demitri’s gaze slid away. “Among other

things,” he answered evasively.

Kiernan didn’t like that at all. “Like?” he prodded. He

figured they should start as they intended to go, with the
truth between them.

Demitri’s eyes narrowed for just a second. He grimaced.

“My friends, the make-up, and some personal choices I’m
not ready to share, yet,” he revealed slowly.

“Honesty I can appreciate,” Kiernan replied, smiling.

“Perhaps once we get to know each other better.”

Demitri nodded his agreement, which gave Kiernan hope

that the man wanted more than a mentor or fuck buddy. He
took a sip of his beer, watching his companion over the rim
of the glass. The guy seemed pretty straightforward, maybe
he should just ask.

“So,” he started, putting down his beer. “What are you

looking for here, Demitri?”

His date opened his mouth, then snapped it shut and a

blush worked down his neck. Kiernan watched the coloring,
wondering if it went all the way down his chest. Maybe I need

to be more specific.

Leaning forward, he gently clasped one of Demitri’s

hands between his own. For a second, he marvelled at the
differences. Where his were broad, tanned, and work-
roughened, with the beginnings of age spots, Demitri’s were
slender and fine-boned. Once more, the light calluses on the
pads of Demitri’s fingers surprised him, confirming that the
young man was no stranger to manual labour.

“Are you in this just to learn about sex from someone

with more experience?” Kiernan knew he had a knack for
being blunt, too blunt sometimes if one believed his ex-
wife’s complaints. “Or are you looking for something

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more?”

When Demitri still didn’t answer, disappointment filled

Kiernan. He straightened. “I’m long past the age for one
night stands,” he admitted.

“No,” Demitri finally squeaked out. “I don’t want a one

night stand. I want—I feel—I’m drawn to you,” he finished,
obviously struggling with his words. “I might be young and
don’t know much about relationships or sex or whatever,”
he continued, staring at their clasped hands, as if not looking
at Kiernan’s face would help him get the words out. “But
I’ve always liked older men, even when still figuring out I
was gay. People my own age…” He shook his head. Finally,
he lifted his gaze and pinned Kiernan with a soulful look. “I
want to find a place where I can be free to be me, to be
accepted for what,” Demitri paused, frowned, then shook
his head, before amending, “who I am.”

Anger surged through Kiernan, shocking him with its

intensity. Evidently, this sweet young man had been called
an abomination—or any other choice of word bigots liked to
label gays—one too many times. Kiernan tamped down his
initial reaction—namely, ask who’d bashed him, track that
person or persons down, and give them a taste of their own
medicine. Instead, he squeezed Demitri’s hand lightly.

Start as I intend to go.
He smiled. “Well, I am an older man, and I’d like the

opportunity to get to know you very much. I expect honesty
between us. If there’s something I do or say you’re not
comfortable with, you need to tell me, and I’ll do the same,”
he promised, although he couldn’t think of anything the
sweet young man could do that would bother him.

“I’m not saying we’ll be compatible, because not everyone

is,” he warned. He didn’t want to get the man’s hopes up
unnecessarily, and he sure didn’t want to scare him away by
expressing how much he really wanted to see, touch, and fill

Freeing Demitri’s Wolf

the younger man’s sexy body. Just those thoughts had his
dick thickening, and he quickly pulled his head out of the
gutter.

Looking into Demitri’s earnest green eyes, Kiernan

offered, “We’ll take this slow, one day at a time, and see if
we fit. What do you say?” he asked gently.

Demitri nodded, smiling, obviously pleased with

Kiernan’s words, which seemed to warm him from the
inside out.

Charlie Richards

Chapter Three

o, what do you do for fun?” Kiernan asked once their
food had arrived and Peter disappeared again.

Demitri paused where he was cutting his steak, looked up

and answered, “Hiking. I love hiking. There’s nothing better
than getting out in the mountains and exploring.”

“Are you familiar with this area?” Kiernan used a fork to

pull off a large chunk of meat from the fall-off-the-bone ribs
and stuck it in his mouth.

For just a second, Demitri wished his tongue was that fork

and being licked and sucked like it was the greatest treat.
Mentally shaking himself, he nodded. “Yeah.”

Over the last couple of years, running had been his way of

getting away from his parents. Once, while in wolf form, a
pair of environmentalists had caught him, but the pack had
rescued him before they could take him out of the forest. He
wasn’t certain what deal the pack beta, Shane, had made
with them—probably for information—but eventually
they’d been let go.

Demitri tried not to think about the pass he’d made at

fellow wolf shifter, Manon Lemelle, an enforcer in the pack.
He’d had a crush on him for months after the Cajun had
rescued him. Manon had kindly turned him down. It had
been for the best.

“I want to be a park ranger,” he blurted, then blushed.

“S

Freeing Demitri’s Wolf

He’d only told a few people about his desire.

“Really? Do you know much about what they do?”

Kiernan scooped up some mashed potatoes, then rested his
forearm on the table and said, “I know there are a number of
national forests around here. Are they hiring?”

Demitri nodded. “I don’t have the necessary degree right

now, though. My friend, Nick, is a park ranger, and he’s
helping me pick classes.” He grinned, excitement flooding
him as he remembered talking to the pack tracker about it.
“He says maybe I could get hired on as an intern this
summer. He helped me fill out an application for that and
said he’d put in a good word for me.”

He flushed and returned his gaze to his plate. Cutting into

his meat again, he quickly took a bite. He hadn’t told too
many about his desires, yet, and he sure didn’t want his
parents to find out. They were encouraging him to look for a
school in Denver. He didn’t know why.

“Most young people want to get away from small town

living,” Kiernan commented. “I take it you plan on sticking
around then?”

“Oh, yes,” he replied. “I’m not going anywhere.”
Kiernan nodded and smiled at him.
Demitri smiled back. It suddenly occurred to him that the

man was probably trying to confirm his earlier statement,
which was that he wanted something permanent. He
understood the human’s hesitation. There was quite a
difference in age and experience between them.

Trying to think of something to fill the silence, he nibbled

his bottom lip for a second. He caught Kiernan staring and
smiled. “Why’d you move here?” He felt the heat of a blush
work its way up his neck at the forward question.

“Work,” Kiernan replied. Demitri watched his date’s gaze

rove over his face and down his shirt covered chest, which
only made him flush even more. Heat lit Kiernan’s pale blue

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eyes, turning them almost silver. “I wanted out of the city,
and one of the local construction companies had an opening
for a foreman.”

Demitri nodded, struggling to focus on Kiernan’s words

and ignore the clear appreciation in his eyes. “Right, because
Gus left.” He hadn’t known the rhino shifter well, but he
knew Gus had mated with a gargoyle. They’d moved south
to join a gargoyle clutch.

“You know about that?”
Shrugging, Demitri pointed out, “Small town. Everyone

knows just about everything.”

“Ah, still getting used to that.”
Demitri nearly jolted in his seat when a sock-clad foot

rubbed against his calf.

Kiernan smirked warmly, obviously knowing he’d

surprised him. “So, I guess that means you’re okay with
being paired with an older man?” he crooned.

Demitri licked his lips as his body flushed hot. “A sexy

silver fox like you?” he murmured, taking a stab at being
coy. “What’s not to like?”

Suddenly, the foot was gone, as was the mirth in

Kiernan’s beautiful silver-blue eyes. Demitri wondered if it
was something he’d said. “In the spirit of sharing, that
would be my ex-wife,” Kiernan revealed. “I figure you
should know that I’ve been married, have a daughter, and
I’m pretty damn set in my ways.”

Oh! Wow!
At least that revelation got his erection under control.

“How, uh…” He didn’t know what to ask about first.
Finally, he frowned and muttered, “Are you bisexual?”

“Ah, not really,” Kiernan admitted, sitting back and

setting his fork and knife down, his expression serious. “I
was in denial. We had a contraceptive mishap. Swayed by
our parents, we married. I knew it was a mistake, but I did it

Freeing Demitri’s Wolf

anyway.”

“What happened?”
Kiernan sucked in a deep breath, then met his gaze

levelly. “Maggie, my wife, discovered my stash of gay porn.
According to her note, it was in the attic.” His face twisted in
a grimace. “I didn’t even remember where I’d shoved it
when we moved in together.”

Scoffing, his eyes glittered with emotion. “I got home

from work one day to a box of DVDs resting in the middle of
the living room with her note taped on top. I’d just opened
the fucking box when I heard my daughter crying in her
room.” His lip curled into a snarl as his memories seemed to
swamp him. His hands clenched into tight fists where they
rested on the table. “Maggie had left while Valerie was
down for her nap. She was only two fucking years old and
she left her all alone.”

Demitri could scent the tension, anger…and even fear

rolling off the man as he seemed to relive his memories.
Wanting to ease his mate’s mind, Demitri reached across the
table and grabbed onto his hand. “Hey, look at me,” he
urged softly. When angry eyes met his own, a thought
struck him. “Was Valerie okay?”

All the fight seemed to go out of Kiernan. He blew out a

quiet breath. “Yeah,” he murmured. “Yeah.”

Demitri squeezed his hand, relieved to hear that.
Kiernan gave him a wan smile. “At least it made it easy to

gain custody of Valerie. Charges of abandonment are always
taken seriously.”

Nodding, Demitri searched for something else to ask.

Fortunately, he didn’t have to.

Turning his hand, Kiernan twined their fingers together.

“She’s in college now in Colorado Springs. Studying to be a
CPA. She’s very smart.”

Demitri still had no idea what to say, so he simply smiled

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and nodded.

Peter arrived and asked if he could get them anything.

Kiernan shook his head and asked for the check.

Demitri remained silent and popped the last bite of steak

into his mouth. It had been a delicious steak.

“Ah, to be young and have a swift metabolism again,”

Kiernan teased. Laugh lines appeared around his eyes as he
smiled at Demitri. “Where do you put it all?”

He wasn’t certain how to answer that. It wasn’t like he

could tell Kiernan about how shifters had higher
metabolisms and could easily pack plenty of food away.
Instead, he decided on, “Must be all the hiking. It keeps me
in shape.”

Kiernan guided Demitri from the restaurant. Demitri

liked how his mate’s hand felt on his back. He really liked
how Kiernan seemed unable to stop touching him, like now,
on his back, or holding his hand at the table. It felt good,
really good, and Demitri wanted more.

Gentle pressure kept Demitri moving toward the parking

lot. He found himself standing next to a fairly old black four-
by-four pickup truck. Kiernan moved his hand to Demitri’s
shoulder. Goose bumps broke out over his skin when
Kiernan began to rub the nape of his neck with his thumb.

A shiver worked through him, causing his nipples to

bead. He fought back a whimper as the erection he’d been
trying to hide most of the date twitched in his jeans. He just
knew he was leaking a wet spot.

“I’d like to see you again,” Kiernan said, walking around

him so they faced each other, although he never removed his
hand from Demitri’s neck.

Demitri struggled against the urge to bare his throat to

Kiernan, knowing, as a human, he wouldn’t understand the
move. That didn’t stop his wolf from rolling over in his

Freeing Demitri’s Wolf

mind and showing his belly to the strong human.

Then he realized Kiernan was still talking.
“Are you working at the diner tomorrow?”
Nodding, Demitri gazed at the older man through his

lashes. “I go in at one and work until nine.”

“Hmm,” Kiernan responded. “Perhaps you’d be

interested in going for an evening hike then? You mentioned
you enjoyed hiking. Know any good places you could show
me that wouldn’t take too long?”

Demitri’s mind immediately went to all the things they

could do in the solitude of the forest. His mate could lay him
down on a bed of fragrant pine needles, pin him between the
earth and his broad, heavy body. His cock oozed in his jeans,
and he desperately wanted something to rut against.

Finally getting enough presence of mind together, Demitri

nodded. “Yeah, I know a couple short hikes that are really
nice.”

The hand on his neck slid around to cup his jaw, sending

tingles down his spine and through his torso to his chest.
“Good. Now, I’m going to kiss you goodnight,” Kiernan
stated softly. “If you don’t want that here in the parking lot,
you’d better tell me now.”

“Please,” he whimpered, wanting, needing to feel his

mate’s lips, find out what he tasted like.

Kiernan didn’t disappoint. A firm hand settled on

Demitri’s waist and tugged him forward gently. Kiernan
used his hold on Demitri’s jaw to tilt his head. Lowering his
face, Kiernan gently brushed his lips over Demitri’s once,
twice, before sealing them firmly together.

The pressure increased and Kiernan nipped Demitri’s

bottom lip sensuously. Demitri moaned, his hands finding
their way into the open flap of Kiernan’s jacket and
clutching at his shirt. Kiernan slipped his tongue into
Demitri’s mouth, forcing it open wider, giving him more

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access. The heady taste of his mate enthralled Demitri’s
senses and he pressed closer, wanting more.

Easing the contact, Kiernan gently ended the kiss. Demitri

whimpered at the loss of his mate’s mouth. “Easy, darling,”
Kiernan crooned into his ear as he tucked Demitri’s head
under his chin. With him standing five foot ten and his mate
six foot two, Demitri thought he fit perfectly against him.

Demitri shivered, sucking in great lungfuls of breath. He

tried to get his breathing under control, but it was difficult
being this close to the man that he desperately wanted with
every fiber of his being. Demitri didn’t know how long it
took, but finally he felt like his heart wouldn’t beat out of his
chest.

Kiernan must have noticed the change in his body, for he

eased him away, putting some space between them.
“Tomorrow, Demitri.”

Demitri had no idea what his mate was promising with

those words, but he nodded anyway. “Okay.”

Giving him one more, soft peck on his lips, Kiernan

straightened and glanced around. “Which one’s your ride?”

“I walked,” Demitri corrected.
“Can I give you a ride home? I hate to think of you

walking in the dark, even in a small town,” Kiernan
admitted.

Demitri smiled, flattered his mate would worry about

him, but he still shook his head. “My parents know I’m gay,
but…” he glanced down at himself. With the light touch of
eye shadow and the sweep of blush on his cheeks, it was a
little hard to miss. He liked how he looked with just a hint of
make-up.

When he’d finally admitted to his friends his desire,

they’d enlisted the help of Lark, the alpha’s mate, who also
enjoyed make-up, to help Demitri find out what he liked,
disliked, and what looked good on him. Gods above, his

Freeing Demitri’s Wolf

parents had been livid, but that didn’t stop Demitri from
wearing it.

“But seeing you with an older man might be a bit much

for them?” Kiernan guessed.

Grimacing, Demitri nodded. “They’ll just need a couple

days for them to accept it, okay?”

“I understand,” Kiernan replied, although from his scent,

Demitri knew he really didn’t. He’d have to find a way to
make it up to his mate.

After giving him another soft peck on the cheek, Kiernan

let him go. “See you tomorrow.”

It took far more determination than he thought it would,

but Demitri nodded and walked away from his mate. He
headed out of the parking lot and down the street. He
slipped into the trees between buildings and headed
through the woods. His parent’s home was on a side street
three rows over, but it was quicker to walk through the
woods.

When he reached home, he stood in the shadows staring

at the building. He really needed to get out, but he hadn’t
saved quite enough yet. Soon. Very soon. Maybe another
month.

Sucking in a fortifying breath, knowing this conversation

wasn’t going to go well, Demitri headed through the door.

He never had a chance to explain. The second he stepped

through the door, a bat slammed into his gut. Demitri
doubled over, his breath leaving him in a whoosh. The bat
landed across his shoulders next and his knees buckled.

Turning his head slightly, he saw his father’s red face and

bared teeth as he glared down at him, the bat clutched
tightly in his meaty fists. “After all we’ve done for you, you
worthless piece of shit. This is how you repay us?” Cooper
snarled.

“What?” he squeaked, confusion and fear permeating him

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as he watched his father lift the bat again.

“How do you think your mother felt when Linda and

John showed up an hour ago, telling us how you were
fawning all over some old man at Caribou’s?” A kick to
Demitri’s ribs rendered him unable to respond as pain
exploded through his abdomen. “You…are…not…gay.”

Each word was punctuated with another kick, two to his

legs, one to the chest and finally one to his head.

Demitri fought back the whimper. Tears leaked from his

eyes, but this time, he refused to be cowed. “I am gay,” he
insisted breathily, although he couldn’t meet Cooper’s eyes.
His father might not be a wolf, but he was still far more
dominant than Demitri would ever be.

Cooper grabbed his hair and hauled him up onto his

knees, sending pain shooting across his scalp and down his
spine. “Let me help you change your mind,” he sneered.

The bat connected with Demitri’s temple, sending

darkness crashing over him.

Freeing Demitri’s Wolf

Chapter Four

iernan felt on edge, jittery, and he didn’t like it one bit.
He’d blame it on the lack of sleep, but since he’d felt

this way before going to bed, he knew that wasn’t the truth.
Kiernan kept kicking himself for not giving Demitri his
phone number and insisting his young love interest call him
once he’d gotten home safely.

That had to be it. He was just worried about Demitri. He

had that tendency, to be controlling and dominant. Loving
to dominate in the bedroom, sometimes it was hard for
Kiernan to turn it off outside of it.

Slamming his truck door just a little too loudly, Kiernan

grumbled an apology to his truck. His beat up pick-up and
his daughter had been the only constants in his life for the
last twenty years. It was odd, but he was fond of the damn
thing.

He perused his clipboard as he strode up to the old

firehouse. They were refurbishing it so it looked exactly like
it would have nearly seventy-five years ago when it’d been
first built. It was a cool job requiring plenty of specialized
work and tedious detail.

“Okay, everyone,” Kiernan said, drawing everyone’s

attention. “Here’s what’s on the agenda for today…”

Kiernan glared. “What the hell is this, Joe? That’s not

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anywhere near what it’s supposed to look like.”

Joe huffed a sigh and rolled to his feet. “So what? Like

anyone else is going to know?”

“I’ll know, and when the historian comes through to

verify everything, he’ll know, too,” he snapped. “Take the
hearth apart and do it again. We can’t do the fireplace until
you get it right.”

“What the fuck?” Joe mumbled, turning away. “Your little

twink not put out?”

Rage tore through Kiernan, straightening his spine.

Slowly, he turned back to face Joe. His voice came out icy.
“What did you say?”

As if sensing the den of rattlesnakes he’d just poked, Joe

licked his lips and swallowed hard. After several tense
seconds, the fellow construction worker decided to go for
teasing. “Awe, come on, boss,” he cajoled, though his voice
wavered a bit. “After a date with a sweet piece of ass like I
heard you had at Caribou’s last night, I’d a thought you’d be
in a better mood today.”

His eyes narrowed as the rage simmered. “That was

uncalled for, Joe,” he growled through a clenched jaw. “You
would not want me speaking about your wife that way. I
expect you to give me the same respect.” Fighting the urge
to smack the surprised look off Joe’s face—Why the hell does
he find my response surprising?—Kiernan added, “If you
don’t, you will get written up for harassment. This is an
equal employee opportunity employer.”

Immediately, Joe started back-pedaling. He lifted up his

hands, palms out in placation. “Hey, boss. I’m sorry. I didn’t
mean it like that. Demitri’s a good kid. Always keeps his
nose clean, not like some other small town hooligans.”

Kiernan didn’t know whom Joe was talking about and

didn’t care. Deciding he’d gotten his point across, he nodded
curtly and strode away. Geez, he really needed to get a grip.

Freeing Demitri’s Wolf

What he’d said was true enough, but his overprotective
temper had shocked the hell out of him.

Damn, when have I felt that protective over someone I’ve just

met?

Shaking his head, he glanced at his watch, realized what

he was doing, and headed to what would become the
sleeping chambers, but right now was set up as a makeshift
office. He wasn’t going to Macy’s Diner for lunch anyway.
Demitri didn’t start until one o’clock, so there was no point.
He’d have to wait until dinner to slip in and see the man.
Maybe Demitri would be able to take a short break and they
could make out in his truck. Kiernan grinned at his thoughts
and got to work.

Rubbing his hands on his jeans, Kiernan couldn’t believe

they were sweating. The closer he’d driven to the diner, the
more jittery he’d become. Shaking his head at his own
ridiculousness, he shoved open the door and climbed out of
the truck.

A dozen long strides carried him to the door and into the

diner. Kiernan tried not to be obvious, but his gaze quickly
swept the interior, searching for Demitri. He didn’t see him.

“Just you, sir?” the young hostess asked perkily.
Kiernan nodded at the smiling woman. “Is Demitri in

tonight?”

Her smile faded even as she nodded. “Yeah. I can put you

in his section, but take it easy on him?” She leaned forward
and whispered, “He’s having an off night.”

“Please do. Is something wrong?” Kiernan wasn’t too

proud to wheedle information about the man he wanted to
become his lover from other people.

She shrugged, heading toward a booth near the back.

Interesting, normally Demitri worked the front. “Not that
he’ll say. He just seems a bit, I don’t know…off.”

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Before Kiernan could question her further, the woman

dropped a menu on a table and wandered back toward the
front. Huh. Kiernan decided he’d have to figure it out for
himself and took a seat.

It didn’t take long for Demitri to appear. Kiernan saw

right away what the hostess must have seen. The vibrant
young man from last night was gone and in its place was a
subdued shadow of his normal self. Demitri wore a black,
long-sleeved shirt, making his pale skin appear almost
washed-out. His slacks were baggy, hanging almost sloppily
on his lean frame. And it looked like all he’d done was brush
his hair, so it fell into his face and eyes, instead of carefully
styling the blond locks. With the way he kept his head
bowed as he moved, checking customer’s drinks and
conversing with his guests, Kiernan couldn’t even see
Demitri’s eyes.

Something was clearly wrong. He hadn’t expected

Demitri to tell his parents about them yet—and just thinking
that made him feel a bit like a perv, but oh, well—so, what if he
had and they hadn’t taken the news well? Would Demitri
back away from him? Kiernan sure as hell hoped not, and he
planned to have his answer soon enough.

Demitri made his way toward him, his movements slow,

and Kiernan really didn’t like the surprise he saw in the
young man’s eyes. “Hey, darling,” he greeted softly. “You
feeling alright?” No reason he shouldn’t get straight to the
point.

Kiernan watched Demitri nibble his bottom lip, a sign

he’d learned meant he was thinking about his answer.
Finally, after several heartbeats, Demitri smiled tentatively
and nodded. “Yeah. Fine. Just didn’t sleep much. I’m tired.”

“Uh huh, does that mean you don’t have the energy for

hiking tonight?” he asked, flipping over his water glass so
Demitri could fill it.

Freeing Demitri’s Wolf

Demitri concentrated on the glass as he poured iced water

into it. “Probably not,” he whispered.

Kiernan just kept his eyes from narrowing at the pull on

Demitri’s lips. Was that a grimace of pain? He didn’t
respond right away to Demitri’s words and when he finally
swept his gaze up to the young man’s eyes, he noticed a
flush working its way over his face and neck. Except, it
wasn’t an even blush.

Now his eyes did narrow as he focused on Demitri’s

temple. Even though Demitri had tried to hide it, when he
straightened and shook his head, his loose hair moved,
revealing yellow, purple, and green skin above his temple.
That explained the lack of styling.

“Who hit you?” Kiernan’s cool tone finally got Demitri to

focus on him. The blush was gone, his face now pale.

“No one,” he denied.
Growling low, he hissed, “That’s a lie, and we both know

it. Was it your father? Did he backhand you or something?”

“No, he…” Demitri glanced around as if worried

someone was watching him. “You want your usual?” he
asked, instead of finishing.

He almost declined, but then he saw the fear in Demitri’s

eyes and nodded. “Yes, the meatloaf sandwich. Thank you.”
Wrapping his hands around his glass to keep from grabbing
Demitri and demanding the young man tell him what the
hell was going on, Kiernan watched him slip back into the
kitchen.

That’s when he noticed the glaring man near the front of

the restaurant. Short, dark hair, glasses on a round face, the
man wore jeans and a sweatshirt that hid his true form.
Either way, it was easy to see the guy was watching Demitri.

A few moments later, Demitri came back out and placed

the plate of food in front of him. “I’m sorry, Kiernan,” he
whispered. “I can’t go hiking with you tonight.” Before he

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could say anything, Demitri straightened. In his normal
voice, he said, “Enjoy your meal, sir. Please, let me know if I
can do anything else for you.”

Kiernan watched Demitri hustle away, all the while

wanting to tell him that what he could do for him was tell
him what the hell was going on. He ate his food in silence,
watching Demitri move slowly about his duties, with a hell
of a lot more subtlety than the other guy. Once done, he paid
for his meal and left.

Starting his truck, Kiernan pulled out of the lot. Instead of

heading home, he wended through the streets until he’d
circled back around. Kiernan parked in the shadows across
from the diner and waited, watching through the window.
When the frumpy man with glasses left at nine o’clock,
hustled out by the hostess and one of the bus boys, Kiernan
watched him get into a dark sedan and drive away.

He exited his truck and, sticking to the shadows, headed

across the street. Kiernan figured it might be considered
stalkerish to be hiding in the shadows at the back door, but
fuck that, he wanted answers. He knew someone had hit
Demitri, and he meant to find out whom.

His patience paid off when Demitri came out carrying a

bag of garbage. When he swung it into the dumpster,
Kiernan heard him gasp, then grab his side. Growling,
Kiernan strode toward him. From the shocked look on
Demitri’s face, followed quickly by fear, Kiernan could just
imagine the rage etched across his features.

It took some effort, but Kiernan managed to soften his

look. He wasn’t angry with Demitri, after all. Gently, he
cupped the young man’s jaw and tipped his head back. Still,
Demitri’s eyelashes hid his eyes.

Kiernan didn’t like how Demitri trembled in his arms.

“Demitri, look at me,” he urged. He did like how the man
immediately obeyed, but hated the fear in the green depths.

Freeing Demitri’s Wolf

“Tell me what’s going on. Who was that man watching you?
Who hurt you?”

“That was my father’s friend, Brett. My father, Cooper,

didn’t like that I went on a date with you,” Demitri
whispered the admission.

“Oh, darling,” he murmured. Settling a hand on Demitri’s

hip, Kiernan squeezed it lightly.

Demitri flinched and whimpered.
Kiernan froze and frowned. His heart began to race as he

saw the pained expression on the sweet man’s face. “It
wasn’t just your face he hit, was it?”

Demitri pinched his lips together, but at least he admitted

the truth by shaking his head.

Dropping to one knee in the dirty alleyway, Kiernan

gently pulled Demitri’s shirt from the waist of his slacks. He
drew in a sharp breath when he lifted the material and
spotted more dark and angry looking bruises.

“Dee…” he breathed. Looking up, he peered at Demitri.

“Your father did this?”

Demitri nodded.
“Why?” He couldn’t fathom why any father would want

to strike their son, let alone one as sweet and hard working
as Demitri.

“He told me I wasn’t gay and I had the audacity to

disagree.”

“Did you go to the police?” he asked incredulously.
Demitri shook his head. “He’s my father.”
Kiernan let his eyelids slide closed. He struggled against

his desire to hunt the man down and beat him black and
blue like he’d done to Demitri. But he couldn’t do that. He
knew that, even if he didn’t like it. However, there was no
way he wanted Demitri back in that environment.

“Come home with me,” he blurted out even before he

realized what he’d planned to say. Even as he said the

Charlie Richards

words, Kiernan knew he was going to insist. He wanted to
take care of Demitri.

Demitri’s eyes widened. “Oh, I don’t—”
“You can’t go back to that house,” Kiernan stated,

interrupting. “I won’t allow it.” It wasn’t like he really had
any say in the matter and he knew it. From the shock of
Demitri’s face, Kiernan realized he probably knew it, too.
Racking his brain, he rose back to his feet and gently held
the young man’s face, rubbing his thumbs along his high
cheekbones. “Come with me just for the night. Let me take
care of you. Tomorrow,”—Damn, why was this so hard to
offer?—”we’ll find alternate arrangements. Just…just don’t
go back home tonight. Please,” he pleaded.

That finally seemed to get through to him. Demitri gave

him a smile. “I’d like that.”

Warmth swelled through him. “Good.” His man was

coming home with him tonight. “Are you just about done
here?”

Demitri shook his head. “I still have a few chores. Maybe,

twenty minutes?”

“Okay,” Kiernan said. “I’ll pull the truck around back.”

Unable to resist any longer, Kiernan leaned down and gave
his man a soft butterfly kiss. “I’ll see you in a few.”

After Kiernan released Demitri and watched him walk

back into the building, he headed around to his truck. As he
moved the vehicle, then waited for Demitri, he made a point
of not thinking about how he’d mentally called Demitri his
man, or how much he liked the sound of that.

Freeing Demitri’s Wolf

Chapter Five

emitri couldn’t help but feel nervous. He’d never not
gone home before and just the idea of defying his

father even more by doing this sent a spike of apprehension
through him. Of course, since he’d planned to walk to
Frankie’s house and then contact his alpha anyway, did it
matter? He was still going to defy his father.

The man had backhanded him a time or two when he’d

misbehaved, but he’d never done anything like this. Demitri
wasn’t stupid. He knew what Cooper had done was wrong.
He had no intention of tolerating it, even if that meant
bumming a room from his friends for a couple weeks while
finding a place to live.

A large calloused hand sliding over his own to grip his

fingers pulled Demitri out of his panicked thoughts. “Hey,
you doing okay?”

No! “Y-yeah.”
Kiernan’s brows furrowed as he eyed Demitri, but finally

he nodded. “We’re here. Let’s head in and I’ll take a look at
those bruises. Make sure everything is healing okay.”

Demitri stared through the windshield at the large,

bungalow style cottage that made up so many of the homes
in the area. “Oh,” he mumbled. He hadn’t even realized
they’d stopped. Gods, I’m tired.

When Kiernan released his hand, Demitri immediately

Charlie Richards

missed the contact and swallowed a whimper. When had he
become so needy? He didn’t want his mate to think he was
some blubbering idiot. Clenching his jaw, he pushed the
door open, trying to ignore the pain that stabbed through his
torso.

He might be a shifter with accelerated healing, but his

father had worked him over pretty good. The bat to the head
had made Demitri pass out for a time, but then he’d woken
to find himself tied to his bed. As soon as Cooper realized
he’d woken, his father had started whipping him. Demitri
had never felt anything so painful and had tried to scream
for help around the gag in his mouth. It hadn’t worked, and
he’d soon passed back out.

When he’d left for work that afternoon, Cooper had

warned him to come straight home or he’d get more of the
same. Like that’s a big incentive to obey him.

Suddenly, Kiernan was there. His mate slipped an arm

around his shoulders, encouraging him to lean against him.
“Come on. You’re dead on your feet,” Kiernan murmured.
“Let’s get you taken care of.”

Exhaustion settled over Demitri like a cloak, heavy and

stifling. Demitri stumbled, even with Kiernan’s support.

“Easy, darling,” Kiernan crooned. “I gotcha.”
“That’d be nice,” he muttered. He really was ready to

conk out. “I wanted to call in sick, but I was afraid to stay
home.” Shit did he just admit that out loud?

“I’m glad you got out of there,” Kiernan responded

gently.

“Tired,” he mumbled absently.
He barely registered the click of the locks as Kiernan

opened the door and he was too busy struggling to stay
awake to notice much of the home. The best he could do was
focus on placing one foot in front of the other, especially
when Kiernan led him up a flight of stairs.

Freeing Demitri’s Wolf

“Sit here,” Kiernan commanded. “I’ll be right back.”
Demitri found himself deposited on a toilet. He hissed as

his ass hit the unyielding plastic and he bounced back to his
feet, all sense of fatigue gone as waves of pain rolled through
his ass and thighs. Grabbing the towel bar, he waited for the
pain to pass. He’d managed to avoid sitting while at work,
leaning against the wall during his break. Even the truck
ride hadn’t been that bad, since the seat had been nicely
cushioned.

“Demitri?”
He turned to see a concerned, questioning look on

Kiernan’s face. “Hurts,” he admitted.

Kiernan laid the sweats he carried on the counter, then

crossed to him. “Let’s take a look.” As he carefully helped
Demitri out of his shirt, he teased, “This certainly wasn’t
how I wanted to undress you for the first time.”

A smile flickered across Demitri’s face as he shrugged the

button-down shirt off his shoulders. Kiernan wants me. When
Kiernan unbuttoned Demitri’s fly, the back of his hand
brushed against his dick. The light contact, combined with
the close proximity of his mate—flooding Demitri’s senses
with Kiernan’s scent—caused his dick to thicken.

As soon as Kiernan lowered his zipper, his cock sprang

free.

“Commando, darling?” Kiernan commented.
Demitri flushed. He was like a lot of shifters, skipping

that particular garment. Not that he could tell his mate that,
yet.

Soft lips pressed against Demitri’s, surprising him into

gasping. Kiernan slipped his tongue into his mouth, teasing
and tasting. He kept the kiss light, the tongue play setting
Demitri’s nerves tingling. The kiss relaxed him, easing his
body’s pain.

When Kiernan ended the kiss, Demitri sagged against the

Charlie Richards

bigger man. He clutched his mate’s shirt and panted. His
dick flexed and he rocked his hips forward, rubbing against
Kiernan’s thigh, the rough fabric feeling amazing against his
sensitive shaft.

“Demitri,” Kiernan growled, a warning in his tone.
Mewling, Demitri clung to him, his body on fire as he

fought the urge to continue rutting against his mate.
“Please,” he whimpered.

“Shit, hold on,” Kiernan responded. “I’ll take care of you,

Dee.”

Keeping one arm wrapped around his shoulders, Kiernan

reached around him, turned on the water, and quickly
adjusted the temperature. He returned his focus to Demitri,
helped him out of his pants, then gently lifted his t-shirt over
his head.

Kiernan hissed, anger clouding his expression as he got

his first good look at the welts and bruising covering
Demitri’s body. “Son of a bitch,” he snarled. “Demitri? Why
won’t you press charges? No one has a right to do this to
you, especially a parent.”

“I-I…” Demitri ducked his head, not liking the frustrated,

disappointed expression on Kiernan’s face. He couldn’t very
well explain that, since he couldn’t go to a hospital, this was
pack business, not police business. “I’m sorry,” he finally
whispered, his erection starting to wilt.

Sighing, Kiernan gently helped him under the spray. “It’s

not your fault, darling. You didn’t do anything wrong.”
Kiernan moved Demitri’s hands on the shower wall. “Stay
there. This might hurt a bit.”

Demitri refrained from pointing out that it wouldn’t hurt

worse than when it happened. Then, Kiernan ran a soapy
cloth over his back and he arched away from the pressure,
hissing.

“Just try to relax,” Kiernan crooned. “Once I’m done here,

Freeing Demitri’s Wolf

I’ll make you feel so good. Let it out if that helps,” he
encouraged.

Trembling, Demitri whimpered and shivered, but he

resisted the urge to flinch away again. Suddenly, the warm
cloth rubbed over his balls. Kiernan’s other hand reached
around his chest and pinched a nipple as he leaned over his
shoulder and sucked his earlobe.

Demitri’s eyes shot open wide. “Oh!”
“You ready for that pleasure now, Dee?” he asked.
“Please,” he hissed. The blood rushing south left him

slightly light-headed as his cock went from soft to rock-hard
in seconds. “Kiernan.”

The cloth moved up to his shaft, rubbing along his

sensitized length. Instinct took over and he thrust forward.
Kiernan dropped the cloth and wrapped his hand around
Demitri’s dick in a strong grip, jacking swiftly.

“That’s it, lover,” Kiernan murmured, moving his mouth

to his neck, nibbling as he went. “Take what you need.”

Between the hand on his dick, the fingers rolling his

nipple, and the warm lips nipping the tendon where his
neck met shoulder, Demitri hit the edge faster than he
thought possible. His body bucked and he fell over the ledge
into bliss, howling his pleasure. Kiernan continued to stroke
him, slowing his movements, ringing the last bits of ecstasy
from his system.

Finally, Demitri slumped, his forehead pressed against

the wall, his chest heaving as he struggled to regain his
breath. When he heard the plop of wet clothes, Demitri pried
an eyelid open and glanced over his shoulder to see his mate
stripping out of his soaked shirt. He wished he had the
energy to explore the thin mat of chest hair plastered to hard
pecks and trailing down his chest to his navel.

“Come on, darling,” Kiernan said firmly, easing him out

of the shower and wrapping a towel around him.

Charlie Richards

After the trying day and the explosive orgasm, Demitri

felt completely wiped. Except, it was a good wiped. Now all
he wanted to do was find the nearest flat surface and sleep
for twelve hours. Evidently, that seemed to be his lover’s
plan, because seconds later, Kiernan helped him into a pair
of soft sweats and led him out of the bathroom.

He couldn’t remember passing through a bedroom on his

way in, but he must have, because Demitri found himself in
what could only be the master bedroom. “Come on, lover,”
Kiernan urged, his arm once more around his shoulders.
“You lie there, and I’m going to rub some lotion on your
back.”

Demitri was out before Kiernan returned.

* * * *

Staring at the young man sprawled across his bed, Kiernan’s
gut tightened with a mixture of want, frustration, and
protectiveness. He didn’t understand why he felt this way
when he barely knew the man. The fact that he’d come in his
pants just from the sounds and feel of the man in his arms
had shocked the hell out of him. He hadn’t done that since
he was a horny teen.

Kiernan decided he’d figure it out later…or maybe he

wouldn’t. He’d just enjoy it for as long as the sexy stud
wanted to keep an old guy like him.

Demitri was out cold and didn’t even stir when Kiernan

rubbed ointment into the welts and cuts on his back. He’d
dabbled in the D/s scene a time or two, though it wasn’t
something he wanted to make a way of life out of, and the
thin lines seemed to be from a whip or cane, maybe a crop.
The thick bruising along his shoulder and thigh looked like
it was from a bat. There were so many of them.

“Good god,” he muttered, his hand clenching. Somehow,

Freeing Demitri’s Wolf

he had to get his lover to press charges against his father.

Knowing he could do nothing else that night, Kiernan

pulled on a pair of boxers, double-checked that the doors
and windows were locked, and turned out the lights. He
climbed into bed, just resisting the urge to spoon up behind
his lover. Instead, he pressed his side against Demitri’s,
reveling in the younger man’s warmth.

Demitri snuffled in his sleep, then turned and burrowed

into Kiernan’s side, throwing one arm over his chest.
Smiling, Kiernan leaned down and pressed a soft kiss to
Demitri’s temple before letting his eyelids slide shut. An odd
sense of peace settled over him as he drifted off to sleep.

Kiernan wasn’t certain what pulled him from his slumber.

He frowned. The creak of soft footsteps on stairs reached
him right before his daughter’s voice started singing Happy
Birthday.

“Oh, shit,” he muttered right as Demitri grunted and

shifted in his arms.

“Wha?” Demitri mumbled, cracking open an eyelid.
“Haaapy birrrrthday to y—” The line cut off and ended

with a squeak.

Kiernan met his daughter’s shocked, wide-eyed

expression over Demitri’s back. Her brown-eyed gaze swept
over them, her mouth opening and closing like a fish. She
had a white-knuckled grip on the tray of cupcakes.

“Dad?” she finally squeaked. “I didn’t, didn’t realize

you’d, um.”

With his arms around his young lover, Kiernan forced a

smile. “Perhaps you could wait in the kitchen, Valerie?”

“Yeah, yeah, right, sorry,” Valerie replied, her voice

higher pitched than he’d ever heard it. She spun on her heel
and fled as if the hounds of hell were after her.

For several seconds, silence filled the room. “I’m sorry,”

Charlie Richards

Demitri whispered. His words muffled since his head was
tucked against Kiernan’s armpit.

“Hey, now, it’s not your fault,” Kiernan stated, confused

about why Demitri would take the blame. Evidently, he’d
been used as the scapegoat once too often. He cupped his
lover’s jaw and urged him to lift his head, so he could look
him in the eye. “Although walking in on me with someone is
shocking,” he smiled and rubbed his thumb over Demitri’s
eyebrow, smoothing away the crease lines. “Valerie does
know that I’m gay.”

“She does?” Demitri asked.
Kiernan nodded. “Yep.” Leaning forward, he brushed his

lips over Demitri’s mouth. He knew he couldn’t do
anything, so kept the pressure light, then drew away. “Let
me see your back. I’ll put more ointment on it, then find you
a clean t-shirt and sweats.”

For just a second, Kiernan thought Demitri would refuse,

but then he shifted sideways, sliding away from him, and
looked toward the far wall. Kiernan took that as the
invitation it was and pushed the sheet and blanket down.

Surprise, then confusion, hit his system at what he saw.

The slender marks had scabbed over and were no longer
pink or raw-looking. The welts had almost disappeared.
Even the heavy bruises across his shoulder, lower back, and
thighs had progressed into the sickly yellow and green
stage.

“How the hell is this possible?” Kiernan didn’t realize

he’d muttered the words aloud until Demitri slithered
further away from him and off the side of the bed.

The young man stood and faced him. Crossing his arms

over his chest, Demitri stared at the rumpled quilts. “I’ve
always healed super-fast.” He shrugged and looked away.
“I’d rather not talk about it.”

Kiernan shook his head. No one healed that fast. He

Freeing Demitri’s Wolf

opened his mouth, then heard dishes rattling in the kitchen,
and snapped his jaw shut. Shoving a hand over his buzzed
scalp, he frowned, his mind reeling. Finally, he focused on
Demitri again and completely hated the dejection on his
young lover’s face.

Heaving a sigh, Kiernan crawled out of bed and walked

around it to Demitri. He wrapped him in his arms, relieved
Demitri didn’t fight him. “Okay. Maybe this is one of those
things we need to discuss once we get to know each other a
little better, hmm?”

When Demitri didn’t respond right away, he used his

forefinger under his chin and tilted his head back. “Hmm?”
he pressed.

Demitri stared into his eyes, obviously searching for

something, acceptance maybe? Kiernan tried to assure with
his expression that his lover having badass healing skills
wasn’t a turn off.

Finally, Demitri smiled tentatively. “Yeah, okay.”
“Good.” After kissing Demitri lightly, Kiernan released

him and moved to his dresser. He pulled out clean sweats
and a t-shirt for Demitri and handed them to him. “I’ll let
you have first crack at the bathroom,” he said. “Then we’ll
head down and you can meet Valerie.”

“Is it really your birthday?” Demitri asked, heading

toward the bathroom, obviously intent on following his
instructions.

Kiernan nodded. “Yeah, I wasn’t expecting Valerie this

weekend,” he admitted.

He paused in the doorway and smiled at him. “Happy

birthday.”

Smiling back, Kiernan winked. “Thanks, darling.”
Once the door closed, Kiernan grabbed a pair of faded

jeans and a t-shirt. He pulled them on as he waited for his
own turn at the john.

Charlie Richards

Ten minutes later, Kiernan twined his fingers with

Demitri’s and led the way down the stairs from the loft and
into the dining room. He spotted his daughter sitting at the
small table with her hands wrapped around a mug of coffee.
Obviously hearing them, Valerie looked up and forced a
smile. “Sorry, Dad,” she murmured. “I didn’t even think…”
Her gaze strayed to Demitri, and he could read the questions
in her eyes. “Um. Happy birthday? I brought cupcakes.”

Kiernan chuckled. Valerie was trying, he had to give her

that. “Thank you, sweetie.” He glanced at Demitri, noticing
the man’s high color. “Valerie, this is Demitri Vinetti.” He
squeezed his lover’s hand. “Demitri, my daughter Valerie
Wabinaw.”

“Nice to meet you,” Demitri immediately responded

softly.

Valerie nodded. “Likewise.”
“You want coffee or milk with your cupcakes?” Kiernan

asked.

“Milk, please,” he whispered, his gaze darting around the

room.

Kiernan could practically feel the tension flooding the

kitchen and wondered what he’d need to do to settle things
down. He’d really wanted just to have a quiet morning
relaxing with his lover, maybe learning Demitri’s body,
learning how it felt to be buried balls deep in his ass.

His cock slowly started to fill at his thoughts, and he

sucked in a deep breath to put a halt on his libido. Kiernan
reached up and grabbed a tumbler and a mug from the
cupboard. When he turned around to put them on the
counter, he caught sight of Demitri’s face, taking in his flared
nostrils and hungry eyes.

It was a look so hot, Kiernan’s pulse jumped and his

blood heated. “Demitri,” he whispered. Never had he been
the recipient of such a look, and he desperately wanted to

Freeing Demitri’s Wolf

strip his lover and kiss every inch of his lean body.

“So, how long have you two been dating?”
Valerie’s question snapped Kiernan out of his lust-

induced stupor. He cleared his throat and turned to the
refrigerator to pull out the milk. As he poured, he answered,
“Demitri works at the diner. We’ve been chatting for the last
couple weeks now.” He smiled as he slid the glass toward
Demitri. “I guess technically we’ve only been dating a
couple days, huh, darling?”

“Yes,” he replied softly.
Upon seeing his shy glance, Kiernan grinned and, unable

to help himself, he reached across the counter, cupped the
nape of his lover’s head, and pulled him in for a kiss. Once
his lips touched Demitri’s and he tasted his lover’s unique
masculine flavor coupled with toothpaste mint and milk, he
couldn’t help but deepen the kiss, tangling his tongue with
Demitri’s.

A throat clearing, twice, finally penetrated the pleasant

buzz caused by kissing Demitri. Kiernan released his lover
and chuckled. Opening his eyes, he winked at him. “Nice,”
he whispered.

Easing away, he placed a couple cupcakes on a plate and

handed them to Demitri. “Have a seat, so I can keep my
hands off you.”

Demitri flushed scarlet and scurried to obey.
“Wow, Dad,” Valerie teased. “I haven’t seen you kiss

anyone like that in a long, long time.”

Kiernan smirked at his daughter, then rolled his eyes and

grabbed the coffee carafe to pour himself a cup. “Hope you
didn’t make this as thick as you usually do. I hate it when
you make sludge.”

Valerie shrugged, before replying flippantly, “It is your

birthday, so I made weak shit, just like you like.”

“Awe, so sweet,” he teased back, lifting the cup to his lips

Charlie Richards

and taking a sip.

“So, how old are you, Demitri?” Valerie asked.
Kiernan snorted, nearly spitting the coffee right back out.

Instead, he managed to swallow the mouthful, but not
before it threatened to come out his nose, burning his
sinuses. “Valerie!” he sputtered.

“What? It’s a valid question,” she pointed out.
Demitri glanced between them. “I’m nineteen,” he cut in.
Valerie’s brows shot up. “Geez, Dad.” She gave him an

inscrutable look. “Robbing the cradle, huh?”

“Valerie!” This time Kiernan couldn’t keep the anger from

his voice. What the hell has gotten into her?

Freeing Demitri’s Wolf

Chapter Six

emitri blinked. He was in the middle of the most life-
altering thirty hours of his life, and he was having a

tough time keeping up. Except, he really needed to get his
head out of his ass so he could defend his mate, but should
he against the man’s own daughter?

“Well, come on, Dad,” Valerie huffed. “He’s less than half

your age!” She turned and focused on Demitri. “Are you his
mid-life crisis?”

From the corner of his eye, Demitri saw Kiernan frown.

He didn’t want them to fight. “He’s my one-and-only,”
Demitri blurted, then slapped his hand over his mouth. Shit,

did I really just say that?

“Your what?” asked Valerie at the same time Kiernan

murmured, “What was that?”

Shit, shit, shit! Now what? He swallowed hard and glanced

between them. Blowing out a breath, he decided to go for the
truth. Well…sort of the truth. “When I saw your father,
Valerie, I knew he was the one for me. I’ve always had a
thing for older men.” Damn, this is embarrassing. He forged
ahead. “My family’s always believed in love at first sight,”
he whispered. Okay, that was a total lie. He glanced at
Valerie, then Kiernan, then the glass of milk in front of him.
“Kiernan is my love at first sight,” he whispered.

Kiernan’s brows drew together and he rounded the table

Charlie Richards

and knelt beside it. “Demitri?”

Uncertain of how Kiernan would take his admission,

Demitri grimaced and darted a glance toward him. “I
probably shouldn’t have admitted that, yet,” he mumbled.

Kneeling beside Demitri’s chair, Kiernan cupped his

cheeks in his palms and gave him a sweet smile. “Dear sweet
Demitri…that is the sappiest thing anyone has ever said to
me.” He brushed a soft butterfly kiss against his lips. “It’s
not the taking it one day at a time like we discussed, but I
like it so much better.” Kiernan lightly pressed his lips
against Demitri’s for just an instant. “Thank you.”

“Sure.” Relief flooded Demitri at his mate’s response.
Kiernan feathered soft caresses to his mouth.
A throat cleared, then Valerie snickered.
Demitri straightened in his chair and looked toward

Valerie, a smile playing across his lips. He couldn’t help it.
He already knew he loved Kiernan’s kisses, his touch, his
scent, his…everything.

Valerie actually grinned at him. “Okay, I get why you like

him. He’s…sweet.”

“That he is,” Kiernan responded. Then he frowned at her.

“And in the future, I’ll kindly thank you to not interrogate
my dates.

Looking completely unrepentant, Valerie shrugged.

“Someone has to look out for you.”

Kiernan looked like he wanted to say more, but Demitri

didn’t want any more fighting between them. “Did you
make these cupcakes?” he asked, taking a bite, he hummed
in appreciation. “Really good.”

Cocking her head, Valerie smiled a little. “Yeah. I didn’t

think I’d get up here, so when my schedule changed, I
thought I’d surprise dad.” She rolled her eyes. “Boy…did
that turn out backwards.”

Demitri actually snorted before asking, “Can I get the

Freeing Demitri’s Wolf

recipe?”

That made Valerie straighten in her seat. Resting her chin

on her hand, she asked, “You cook?”

“Not as often as I’d like,” he admitted. “I find it relaxing,

but I’m…” he grimaced. “I’m looking for a place of my
own,” he finished, letting his gaze stray toward the kitchen.
He spotted the time on the microwave. “Oh, damn. Is that
the time?” He shoved the last bite of cupcake into his mouth
and leaped to his feet.

“Dee? What is it?” Kiernan asked.
Swallowing hard, Demitri grabbed his milk and gulped

several swallows. Turning to face Kiernan, he told him, “I
have to work at one, and I’ve gotta sneak into my house so
my father doesn’t catch me and get clean clothes. I gotta go.”

Kiernan grabbed his arm before he could take three steps.

“Hey, wait. That’s hours away. Why don’t you use my
washer and dryer? Then, we’ll swing by the store and I’ll
buy you a few outfits while we figure out how to get your
clothes from your parents?”

Demitri froze. Kiernan wanted to help him? Oh! My mate

wants to help me! He couldn’t stop his smile. “Okay.”

Demitri grinned at the customer. “Excellent choice,

ma’am. My friend loves the meatloaf sandwich.” He turned
his attention to the elderly gentleman across from the gray
haired woman. “And for you, sir?”

“I’ll take the Rueben with onion rings.”
“Of course. I’ll get your order placed and be right back

with your appetizer. I’m sure it’s ready,” he said. With
another smile, he headed toward the back.

Pushing through the swinging door, he called out the

order then clipped the slip of paper into the overhead clasps.
Demitri saw three orders ahead of theirs and realized he had
just over ten minutes before it was ready. That was enough

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time to drop off the appetizer then make the rounds of his
tables and see if any of his customers needed anything.

After taking the jalapeno poppers to the elderly couple’s

table, Demitri returned to the kitchen and grabbed a pitcher
of water in one hand and a carafe of coffee in the other. He
headed back out to the floor. After another dozen steps,
Demitri froze, his gaze riveted on the doorway and the three
men strolling inside. “Oh!” he whispered.

The tall African American turned to look in his direction,

his brows drawing together. Declan McIntire, alpha wolf of
his shifter pack, exchanged a look with the tall Caucasian
dark-haired man behind him, Shane Alvaro, the pack beta.
The third man, Carson Angeni, a broad-shouldered Native
American, was the shifter pack’s head enforcer.

“Hey, you okay?” Cindy asked, slapping him on the

shoulder as she passed, heading toward the hostess stand.

“Yeah,” he answered absently. Pulling his gaze away

from the alpha wolf shifter, Demitri swallowed hard and got
moving again. He made the rounds of his tables, then
headed toward Declan’s table—because of course they’d end
up in his section.

He had to swallow twice to get moisture into his throat.

Yes, he’d wanted to talk to Declan, but facing down three
powerful wolves was fucking intimidating. Finally, he
managed to unglue his tongue from the roof of his mouth
and say, “Welcome to Macy’s Diner. Can I start you with a
strawberry iced tea or we have coke products. If you’re in
the mood, maybe you’d like some loaded potato skins or a
chili cheese fry to share?”

“I’d love a chili cheese fry,” Carson commented, leaning

back, he tipped onto the rear legs of the chair. “And I’ll take
coffee.”

“Iced tea, unsweetened,” Shane ordered.
Declan eyed him for several seconds, his nostrils flaring,

Freeing Demitri’s Wolf

subtly scenting him, and Demitri shifted nervously. Finally,
he blew out a breath and said, “I’ll take water, Demitri, and
are ye available to take a short break and sit with us a
minute or two?”

He said it as a request, but Demitri knew it wasn’t really

meant that way. He nodded. “I’ll bring your drinks out, then
I’ll need a few minutes, but I’ll try.” Declan nodded back,
and Demitri scurried away.

He quickly made the three shifter’s drinks and placed

them on his tray. Demitri swung by the hostess stand and
asked Cindy to keep an eye on his tables for a few minutes,
explaining that he needed to talk to his friends for just a sec.
She eyed him curiously, but agreed without explanation.
He’d probably have some questions to answer later, but he’d
figure that out when the time came.

Returning to Declan’s table, he gave each man his drink,

then took the free chair and folded his hands together on the
table. He hoped that would keep him from fidgeting. He
really should have figured out a way to talk to Declan this
morning, but he’d enjoyed spending time with Kiernan too
much.

“Yer parents contacted me last night, said ye ran away,”

Declan said, his voice low. Demitri straightened, ready to
refute that, but then the alpha smirked and held up a hand
to stop him. “I scent another on ye. It’s not hard to figure out
where ye really were.”

Demitri’s brows shot up. Was Declan teasing him?
Then Declan’s smirk eased and he leaned toward him

across the table. “Ye’re bein’ careful, aren’t ye, Demitri?”

Lowering his gaze to the table, Demitri knew it was now

or never. “I have some things to tell you,” he whispered,
flicking up to look at his alpha, then the other men at the
table. Shane watched him, his expression inscrutable. Carson
didn’t appear to be paying him any attention, his focus

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sweeping the diner slowly. It was deceptive. Demitri knew
that as the enforcer, Carson would keep a watch and make
certain others couldn’t overhear them.

Evidently, Declan must have noticed his nervousness,

maybe from a scent change or the tension in his shoulders.
His eyes narrowed. “Is it something ye can tell me here? Or
should I have someone pick ye up after ye’re shift and bring
ye to me house?”

That his alpha was willing to listen to him without

question was a relief. How much should he say in the
middle of the diner? Since Declan was here, Demitri figured
he might as well just spit it out. He leaned forward and
muttered, “My parents aren’t too pleased with me being
gay.” Demitri noted the way Declan’s jaw tightened and his
eyes narrowed, but he ignored it.

“When they found out I went on a date with a man, my

father beat me. I went to work like normal, planning to find
a way to get to you afterward, so I could tell you. I didn’t
realize how exhausting getting through the day would be in
my weakened state. I—” he hesitated, but decided to just lay
it all out there. “I was dead on my feet, so when my mate
offered to let me stay the night with him, I accepted.”

“Did you just say your mate?” Shane asked sharply.
Demitri focused on the table and jerked a nod.
“Well, congratulations,” Carson muttered from next to

him.

When Demitri glanced his way, the enforcer still wasn’t

looking him, but a small smile did play about the corners of
his firm lips. Carson was the one who’d set him up for
training as a tracker, so he knew it wasn’t because the guy
didn’t like him or didn’t approve. He was just doing his job.

Finally, Demitri looked at Declan through his lashes. The

big African American ran a hand over his shaved scalp and
blew out a breath. Leveling a concerned look at him, he

Freeing Demitri’s Wolf

murmured, “Ye stayed the night with him while ye were
injured. Did he notice yer increased healing ability?”

Demitri grimaced. “Yeah.”
“What did you tell him?” Shane asked, giving him a stern

look.

He glanced between them. “I told him I didn’t know him

well enough to explain.”

Declan’s black brows shot up. “And he accepted that?”
Shrugging, Demitri nodded.
“Damn, not often a human will be put off like that,”

Shane mumbled.

“Aye. I’m sure it probably has something to do with the

mate-pull.” Shaking his head, Declan licked his lips, glanced
around the place, and seemed to switch gears, for he asked,
“What’s the name of the human?”

“Uh, Kiernan. Kiernan Wabinaw,” he replied. “You’re not

going to hurt him or anything, are you?”

“Of course not,” Declan immediately responded.
Shane snickered and rolled his eyes.
Carson finally looked at him. He smiled and clapped him

on the shoulder. “You need to spend more time with pack-
members,” he murmured. “Learn more about how we
actually handle things.”

He blushed, unable to help it. “Yeah, it’s hard to get

away. My parents don’t like, um…shit.”

Declan’s eyes narrowed. “Don’t like what?”
Swallowing hard, Demitri shivered. “Shifters,” he

whispered. “They don’t like shifters. My mom might be one,
but she hates it. That’s why she avoids pack runs.”

Declan, Carson, and Shane exchanged looks he couldn’t

decipher. Declan and Shane rose from their chairs. “Come
with us,” Declan ordered.

Demitri rose, confused, but there was no way he or his

wolf would think of disobeying their alpha. He followed

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them into the small bathroom of the diner.

“Show us your back,” Shane ordered.
He untied his half apron and set it aside, then lifted his

shirt.

“Son of a bitch,” Shane snapped while Declan growled

low in his throat. Demitri shivered and released his shirt, but
someone else’s hand, he wasn’t certain which man’s,
replaced his hold. Another hand traced over some of the
healing marks.

“Do ye have a place to stay tonight?” Declan asked.

“We’ll swing by yer parent’s place and pack a bag for ye. I
don’t want ye going back there.”

“Um, okay, yeah.” Demitri knew from Declan’s grave

tone that his parents were in trouble, big trouble. He wasn’t
certain how he felt about that. They were his parents after
all. “I know Frankie will let me stay at his place.” That was if
Demitri’s mate didn’t invite him over again. They hadn’t
really discussed it.

They lowered his shirt and smoothed it back into place. A

dark brown hand on his shoulder spun him around and
Declan stared at Demitri gravely. “This is by no means yer
fault. I’m glad ye told me what happened.” He’s brows drew
down further and his jaw clenched for a second before he
said, “I wished ye would’ve told me sooner about yer
parent’s growing lack of acceptance, but what’s done is
done. No matter what happens with yer parents, you are
always welcome in me pack. I want to make that clear.”

Relief flooded Demitri. Somewhere in the back of his

mind, that had been a concern, that he’d be booted out of the
pack along with his parents. “Thank you,” he whispered.

Declan nodded. “And keep me posted about yer mate. Let

me know if ye need help with…acclimating him, when the
time comes,” he ordered.

Freeing Demitri’s Wolf

A few minutes later, Demitri was back working his table

and the other shifters were enjoying their meal. For the first
time in a long time, Demitri felt like he had a place in the
pack. He, as an individual, was accepted. Now, if he could
just figure out how to tell his mate that he could turn into a
wolf.

Picking up a plate of food, he smiled. “One step at a

time,” he mumbled under his breath.

Charlie Richards

Chapter Seven

o, is Demitri really not even twenty?”

Kiernan paused in preparing the deviled eggs and

glanced at Valerie. He frowned. “What? You think he lied to
you?”

She lifted her hands in surrender. “Geez, I didn’t mean

any offence,” she said, her tone sounding as if she was trying
to soothe him.

Kiernan realized his question did come out a bit more

sharply than he’d originally thought, but the idea that
someone would question his lover’s word rubbed him the
wrong way.

“You gotta admit, he acts a lot older than he looks,”

Valerie pointed out.

Thinking about what his young lover had been through,

Kiernan knew he had to grow up quick.

Evidently, something in his expression gave his thoughts

away, for Valerie placed her hand on his arm and squeezed.
“Hey, I didn’t mean anything by it. I know how he feels
about you, so please tell me he’s really not your mid-life
crises. He seems like a nice guy and doesn’t deserve that
unless he knows the score.”

“Knows the score?” Kiernan muttered, taken aback. He

stared at his daughter hard, and she had the decency to
blush. It was somewhat heartwarming that she was now

“S

Freeing Demitri’s Wolf

defending Demitri. Shaking his head, Kiernan stated, “He
hasn’t had a good home life. That’s—” He frowned,
hesitating, but then realized Valerie wasn’t likely to say
anything to anyone. “That’s why he was here last night. His
father took a bat to him when he found out he went on a
date with me.” Ignoring his daughter’s gasp, he plunged
ahead, focusing on the repetition of filling the egg halves to
keep his hands busy. “I want to take care of him, protect
him, and, god, the feeling I get when I hold him.”

“Whoa! TMI, Dad. I get it. You really like this guy, and

he’s not a midlife crisis. That’s good.” She leaned on the
counter, trying to catch his eyes. “So, his parents are
assholes. Is he pressing charges? I mean, I’m all for parents
spanking their kids if they’ve done something wrong, but
beating them with a bat is not something you do out of
love.”

“You got that right, and, no. I can’t seem to talk him into

pressing charges,” he muttered.

“What?” she squeaked, obviously outraged.
He grimaced. Geez, how did he end up talking about this

with his daughter? “I can’t force him to. That’s not how a
partnership works. I can just be there to support him as he
moves on from the experience.”

“Partnership. Holy shit, Dad! Isn’t that moving a little

fast?”

Kiernan paused in his actions, realizing what he’d said.

“Well, damn.” Did he really feel that strongly toward
Demitri already? Even thoughts of the other man made him
smile, and he realized that, although he’d only exchanged
pleasantries with the man for the first couple weeks of their
acquaintance, he’d been watching and learning about him.
Demitri was openly friendly with customers, hardworking
and kind, and even when someone was rude to him, he still
acted with professional courtesy.

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Fuck, I’m half-way in love with the man already!
Looking his daughter in the eye, Kiernan admitted. “If he

likes me as much as he says he does, I think I could spend
the rest of my life with the man and be happy.”

For several seconds, Valerie just stared back at him.

Finally, she blinked, then smiled, the light of it reaching her
eyes. “I’m really happy for you, Dad. I hope it works out,”
she said softly, patting his hand. Changing the subject,
probably because she realized things were getting awkward,
Valerie asked, “Are those done? I really want one.”

Kiernan parked in front of the diner and waited, tapping

restlessly on the wheel. After his daughter left, he’d headed
to the diner for a cup of coffee and to see Demitri. His lover
had already taken his break, but since it was slow, he’d
stopped at his table for a few minutes to talk.

He’d learned that a friend was picking up some of

Demitri’s stuff from his parent’s home, making it
unnecessary for him to go back there. That was good. When
Demitri mentioned his plan to stay the night at his buddy’s
place, Kiernan had immediately offered his home again. It
had pleased him that Demitri had accepted without
question.

His thoughts turned to the fact that this time, his lover

would be mostly healthy while in his bed. Yes, he found the
fact that Demitri healed freakishly fast a bit unsettling—and
he really wanted answers about that—but he could wait, for
a while anyway.

So wrapped up in what he wanted to do with his lover

that evening, Kiernan almost missed the door of the diner
opening and several employees exiting. Demitri was among
them, a backpack slung over his shoulder.

Demitri glanced around the parking lot, then made his

way to Kiernan’s truck. Kiernan leaned over and pushed the

Freeing Demitri’s Wolf

door open for him. “Hey,” Demitri greeted, climbing into the
vehicle.

As soon as the door shut, Kiernan wasted no time

reaching across the cab, cupping his lover’s skull, and
pulling him into a deep kiss. Demitri immediately opened
for him, accepting his tongue and stroking it with his own.
Knowing he’d get too excited far too fast, Kiernan reined in
the kiss. “Hi,” he whispered against the other man’s lips.

He felt more than saw Demitri smile. “I like that

welcome.”

Kiernan chuckled. “Good, let’s go. I’m ready to get you all

to myself.” Returning his focus to his truck, he eased the
vehicle out of his parking space.

“Did Valerie get off okay?” Demitri asked.
Nodding, Kiernan checked traffic then stepped on the

accelerator. “Yeah. Back to college for another few weeks.”
He glanced at the young man. “Are you hungry? I made
deviled eggs and could add a sandwich or eggs if you need
something.”

Demitri’s lips curved into a smile, his eyes gleaming

mischievously. “How about just the deviled eggs…in bed?”

“Mmm,” Kiernan hummed. “I do like the sound of that.”

His cock liked the sound of that, too. Ever since seeing and
touching the man’s lean naked form, he’d wanted to do
plenty to the man.

It didn’t take him long to make the drive home. Stone

Ridge was a small town, after all. He led the way into his
small home, all the while trying to figure out the best way to
get Demitri into his bed. Maybe the direct approach?
Demitri had always responded well to that in the past.

Once inside, Kiernan grabbed Demitri’s arm in a gentle

hold and turned him to face him. “I really want to make love
to you,” he whispered. Okay, so that hadn’t been exactly
what he’d been thinking, but now that he’d said it, he knew

Charlie Richards

the truth of his words. “Will you let me?”

Demitri sucked in a quick breath, his eyes dilating with

desire. “Yes, please,” he responded breathily.

Kiernan grinned.
“Can I shower first, please? I smell like the diner.” He

grimaced and glanced away. “Grease and french fries.”

Chuckling, Kiernan ducked his head and inhaled deeply.

Demitri was right. Kiernan could definitely smell that on
him, although he could still detect the man’s natural woodsy
scent. “Yep, though I think it’s quite sexy on you,” he teased.

Demitri blushed. “Thanks a lot.”
Laughing some more, Kiernan slid his hand down to

Demitri’s hip and squeezed lightly. “Head on up and help
yourself to the bathroom. I’ll grab the deviled eggs.”

Nodding, Demitri tilted his head and leaned forward.

Kiernan knew what he wanted and happily granted him a
kiss, swirling his tongue deep into Demitri’s mouth, tasting
cinnamon and male, making him realize the guy must have
chewed a piece of gum before leaving work.

When Kiernan released him, Demitri turned on his heel

and bounced up the stairs. Kiernan grinned after him,
looking forward to what was to come. Using the downstairs
bathroom, he quickly brushed his teeth and washed up, then
he grabbed the plate of eggs and headed upstairs.

After setting the plate on the nightstand, Kiernan quickly

shucked his clothes and pulled on a pair of silk sleep pants.
He grinned at the comfortable sleepwear, wondering what
his construction buddies would say if they saw him now.
Deciding he really didn’t care, Kiernan lounged on the bed
and waited.

He listened to the water and remembered how Demitri

looked naked and wet. How it felt to run his hands over
those sleek muscles and that high, firm ass. His cock filled at
his memories, and he reached down and palmed his dick

Freeing Demitri’s Wolf

through the thin material. He could soap up his lover’s hole,
stretching the tight ring. Then he’d—

“You need some help with that?”
Snapping open eyelids Kiernan hadn’t realized he’d

closed, he found the object of his lust standing five feet from
the foot of the bed, a towel wrapped around his waist.
Droplets of water Demitri had missed glistened on his
hairless chest and desire seemed to make his green eyes
glow.

It took all his self-control, but Kiernan managed to stop

rubbing his dick. His eyes narrowed on the object of his lust
as his natural dominance in the bedroom kicked in and he
softly ordered, “Drop the towel, Demitri. Let me see you.”

For just a second, Kiernan thought he’d gone too far, then

Demitri gripped the towel in one long-fingered hand and
pulled it loose, letting it drop to the floor. Kiernan noted the
way Demitri’s mouth opened slightly, how he panted softly,
and how his face and neck flushed with arousal.

Oh, he does like taking orders!
Kiernan fixed on Demitri’s slender engorged dick.

Beautiful. “Come here, darling.” His voice deepened with
lust. Demitri obeyed, stopping next to the bed. “Is there
anything you want to tell me before we begin?” At Demitri’s
drawn brows, Kiernan elaborated. “Anything I should
avoid, shouldn’t do, say, or touch? Anything you don’t
like?”

Demitri lowered his gaze to the bed, his brows creased as

if lost in thought. For a second, Kiernan didn’t think he’d
answer, but then Demitri looked at him through his lashes
and whispered, “I don’t know. I’m a virgin.”

Kiernan sucked in a sharp breath. Holy shit! “Not even

girls?” he asked, needing to clarify. After all, he’d
experimented with women while trying to figure out his
own sexuality…hence, Valerie. Shit, I should not be thinking

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about her right now.

His lover’s quick headshake swiftly refocused his

attention. “I’ve known since I was fourteen that I’m gay,” he
admitted. “I didn’t want to lead anyone on.”

For some reason, immeasurable possessiveness flooded

Kiernan. He never wanted another man to touch Demitri. It
took several deep breathes before he knew he could get his
voice to come out even. “Good to know. I’ll take very good
care of you, Dee,” he assured.

“I know you will,” Demitri whispered, his faith shining

clearly in his eyes.

Kiernan would do everything possible to live up to that

faith. Maneuvering to the side of the bed, he pulled Demitri
between his thighs. He ignored the slender, jutting shaft a
foot below his nose and grabbed a deviled egg from the tray.
Kiernan lifted it to Demitri’s lips. “Bite,” he crooned, while
settling his other hand around Demitri’s ribcage to hold him.

His lover’s eyes fixed on him, Demitri tilted his head

forward and bit the snack in half. He hummed his
appreciation as he chewed, his eyelids dropping to half-
mast. Kiernan had to fight down a moan of his own. No one
should look that good eating a deviled egg.

Smirking, Kiernan slid his other hand up so he could just

brush his thumb over Demitri’s nipple, immensely pleased
to find it already beaded into a sharp point.

Demitri mewled, his flush intensifying.
“So sexy,” Kiernan growled. His shaft throbbed at the

sight, and he didn’t think he could wait too much longer.
“Finish,” he ordered, holding up the rest of the food.

God, it’s sexy how quickly he obeys.
With a couple gentle nudges, Kiernan guided Demitri to

the center of the bed and onto his back. “Grab the
headboard, darling,” he murmured as he brushed his fingers
over Demitri’s lean abs down to the indent where hip met

Freeing Demitri’s Wolf

groin.

Kiernan watched with satisfaction as Demitri reached up

and grabbed the base of his headboard. He gently traced the
lines of his lover’s abs again and reveled in Demitri’s sharp
intake of breath when he caressed the crease of his groin. He
watched a pearl of pre-cum ooze from the slit of his lover’s
rigid cock.

Holding his gaze, Kiernan slowly lowered his head,

loving how Demitri’s panting breathes sped faster and faster
the closer his mouth came to his cock. He blew across the
moist tip. Demitri groaned, then whimpered. His back
bowed and he came, coating his abs and chest with ropes of
white cream.

For a second, Kiernan couldn’t believe what had just

happened, his lover coming without a true touch. Then
Demitri let go of the headboard and tried to roll to his side
away from him, and Kiernan just knew the blush was now
from embarrassment and not from arousal. Kiernan acted
quickly, gripping Demitri’s hips and refusing to let him
move.

“Stop!” he commanded.
Demitri froze, his eyelids firmly pressed shut.
“Grab the headboard,” Kiernan stated firmly.
It only took a second for Demitri to comply. He smiled,

though he knew Demitri couldn’t see it. “So sexy,” he
crooned. Kiernan leaned down and lapped his tongue up the
young man’s still mostly hard shaft. Demitri gasped.

“Oh,” Demitri moaned, his legs shifting restlessly.
Grinning, Kiernan did it again, this time swirling his

tongue around the head of Demitri’s cock before moving on
and scooping up spent seed from his lover’s abs. He
proceeded to lick and suck every drop of Demitri’s semen
from his chest. The moans, gasps, and whimpers that
escaped the man sounded like music to Kiernan’s ears,

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setting his own blood on fire.

Kiernan loved how responsive his young lover was, how

obedient, how sensitive. By the time Kiernan was done,
Demitri was once more hard and probably ready to blow,
just like Kiernan wanted.

He quickly grabbed the lube out from under his pillow

and slicked his fingers. Leaning up, Kiernan pressed his
mouth to Demitri’s in a slow, dominating kiss, sucking the
younger man’s tongue into his mouth. Splitting his
attention, Kiernan slid his fingers over Demitri’s sphincter,
gently massaging the muscle for several seconds before
dipping his forefinger in to the first knuckle.

Demitri moaned into his mouth, his channel clamping

down on his digit. Holding his hand steady, Kiernan eased
the kiss to an end, then murmured, “Easy, lover. Just relax
and let me in.”

He could tell Demitri struggled to obey, his body

shuddering. Kiernan kissed down the man’s body,
bestowing on him wet kisses until he reached Demitri’s cock
and sucked it down.

“Kiernan,” Demitri moaned, bucking underneath him.
Kiernan gripped his lover’s hip, pinning him down as he

slid his finger the rest of the way inside his lover’s chute. He
took his time, easing his lover open with his fingers, first
one, then two, then three, as he distracted the man by
working his mouth and tongue over his cock and balls.

“P-p-please,” Demitri whimpered, writhing with passion.

“N-need.”

Pulling off his cock, Kiernan whispered, “I’ve got you,

lover. Just relax. I’ll take care of everything.”

As he spoke, he pulled his fingers free, shoved his sleep-

pants down—unwilling to leave Demitri even for the few
seconds it would take to fully remove the clothing—and
grabbed a condom, quickly rolling it on.

Freeing Demitri’s Wolf

At the loss of stimulus, Demitri’s eyes opened wide.

“Kiernan.”

“I’m here, darling,” he crooned, using the last of the lube

on his fingers to slick up his condom-covered dick then he
guided it to Demitri’s hole. His other hand settled by
Demitri’s chest, holding his weight. “Push out for me,” he
urged.

As he pressed forward, Demitri obeyed. Kiernan slipped

into his lover’s chute, tight heat clamping onto his shaft. He
kept moving. Once buried balls deep, Kiernan forced his
body to freeze. Demitri stared up at him, his eyes wide, his
breaths coming in sharp pants.

“Relax,” he crooned, peppering kisses over Demitri’s

eyes, cheekbones, the corner of his mouth. Anything to
remove the pained expression on his lover’s face. “Breathe
slowly. Focus on relaxing. The first time is always a bit
rough,” he reassured. “It’ll feel good soon.”

He reached between them and gently tweaked Demitri’s

nipple then gripped it and tugged. Demitri’s eyes widened,
and a shiver worked through his body. “Ungh!”

The tight stranglehold on Kiernan’s dick eased, letting

him know his lover was ready for him to move. Pulling on
years of experience, Kiernan gently eased out, adjusted his
angle, and thrust slowly back into his lover.

Demitri’s lust-filled cry filled the room. Kiernan smiled

with satisfaction, knowing he’d nailed his lover’s gland on
his first try. “Wrap your arms and legs around me, Dee,” he
murmured the order into Demitri’s ear. For a second, as he
continued his slow, steady thrusts, Kiernan thought his lover
was too far gone with lust to do anything but hold on for the
ride. But after a couple more seconds, Kiernan felt Demitri
wrap him up.

Kiernan shivered, shocked at how good it felt to be held

by Demitri, to rock in and out of his body, and how much he

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wanted to keep this man at his side…forever. Too early for
love. The voice whispered through his brain. Closing his
eyes, Kiernan tucked his face against Demitri’s neck and
sped up his pace.

The way Demitri writhed and moaned, jerked and

twitched in his arms caused a well of pride to swell up
inside Kiernan. Growling roughly, he whispered into
Demitri’s ear, “You ready to come, Dee? You gonna spill
your seed without me touching you? You know you want to,
don’t you?”

Demitri whined, “P-please.”
Leaning up just a bit so he could see his lover’s flushed

face and passion-glazed eyes, Kiernan kept moving as he
rumbled gruffly, “Your balls are so tight. Your shaft is
throbbing. That little tingle at the base of your spine is just
begging you to let go.”

“Yes!” he hissed.
“Do it,” Kiernan ordered.
Demitri’s eyes widened, he gasped, then his chute

clamped down hard on Kiernan’s dick as Demitri stiffened
and jerked, soaking both their stomachs and abs with his
fluids. Groaning, Kiernan managed two more thrusts before
he lost it. His back bowed as he roared his release, his balls
turning pleasantly inside out as he flooded the condom.

He barely managed to catch himself on his forearms, so

he didn’t squish his smaller lover. After several minutes of
ragged breathing, he heard Demitri mumble, “Wow.”

Kiernan grinned, inordinately pleased by that one word.

“Mmm,” he hummed, leaning down and nuzzling Demitri’s
neck and cheek. When he went to kiss the man, his lover
turned away. Concerned, he gripped Demitri’s chin and
pulled his face around. “Hey, what is it?”

“Bit my lip,” Demitri admitted.
Kiernan used a thumb on his bottom lip to pull it back,

Freeing Demitri’s Wolf

revealing blood pooling at the corners. “Poor, darling,” he
crooned. “What happened?”

Giving him a small smile, Demitri admitted, “I guess I’m

a biter, but I didn’t want to without permission.”

“Ah, very thoughtful,” Kiernan replied. “Thank you.” He

pressed a kiss to Demitri’s chin. Reaching down, he grabbed
the base of his dick and the condom, gently pulling his
softening shaft from his lover. When Demitri gasped,
Kiernan looked up and gave him an encouraging smile.
“Sorry, darling. Stay there and I’ll be right back.”

Although getting up was the last thing he wanted to do,

Kiernan knew he had to clean them up. He was too old to
wake up with dried cum pulling on his chest hairs. After
disposing of the condom, he quickly washed his torso and
groin. Grabbing a clean cloth, he doused it in warm water
and hurried out to his lover.

Demitri glanced shyly at him through his lashes, and

Kiernan grinned at the site of his thoroughly debauched
lover. Why he found it sexy that even after what they’d done
together Demitri could still blush he wasn’t sure, but it was.
Suddenly, Kiernan was grateful he was at the age where his
dick didn’t fill quite as fast anymore, otherwise he’d want
his lover’s ass again, and the inexperienced youth couldn’t
handle that, yet.

Smiling, Kiernan gently cleaned Demitri up. “You feel

okay?” he asked.

Demitri nodded. “Yeah. That was…that was wonderful.”
“Good. Be right back,” he whispered, tucking the blanket

around Demitri. Grabbing the plate of deviled eggs, he
headed down to the kitchen. By the time he returned,
Kiernan found his lover snoring softly, his chest rising and
falling in a steady rhythm.

Kiernan stared at the man for several seconds, his heart

hammering with the affection he felt. He could deny it all he

Charlie Richards

wanted, but in his heart, he knew. If Demitri walked away,
he’d be devastated.

Freeing Demitri’s Wolf

Chapter Eight

emitri cracked an eyelid open and blinked slowly. The
heavy arm around his waist and the heat along his

back felt amazing. He loved how Kiernan held him close,
tucked in tight against his chest, as if he truly cared. He
prayed that would transfer into the light of day.

But it was still dark. Hearing the sound of something

scraping, Demitri frowned, trying to figure out what it was.
He kept still, listening intently. Finally, it hit him. Someone
was tampering with one of the locks. Someone was trying to
break in!

It took some maneuvering, but Demitri managed to slide

out of Kiernan’s embrace and out of bed. Demitri crept
down the stairs and followed the sound to the back door.
Keeping close to the floor, he crept to the door and inhaled
deeply.

Mother and Father! And a couple of their friends?
Demitri spun around and sprinted on silent feet back

through the kitchen and up the stairs. He grabbed his phone
off the nightstand and dialed. “Please pick up, please pick
up,” he muttered.

“Aye?” Declan answered groggily.
Unable to think up any reason for his parents to be trying

to break in, Demitri hoped he wouldn’t get in trouble with
his alpha and started talking, “This is Demitri. I’m so sorry

Charlie Richards

to wake you, Alpha, but my parents and a couple of their
friends are at the back door trying to break in.”

“What? Are ye at Frankie’s?” he asked, sounding much

more alert.

“No,” he admitted. “I’m at Kiernan’s.”
“Babe? Who you talking to?”
Demitri froze and looked at his mate, who was levered up

on one elbow and blinking at him blearily.

“Tell him ye’re talking to the police,” Declan instructed,

his acute shifter hearing obviously having allowed him to
overhear Kiernan’s words. “Tell him someone is breaking
into the house. Then find a safe room to lock yerself into.
We’re on our way.”

“Thanks,” Demitri said, his heart in his throat almost

making it difficult to speak. He hung up the phone and
turned toward his mate.

“Demitri?” Kiernan sat up. “What is it?”
A crash from downstairs caused Demitri to jump and

rush around the bed toward Kiernan.

“What the devil?” Kiernan snapped, swinging his legs

over the side of the bed.

“I’ve already called the police. Come on,” Demitri urged,

grabbing his arm.

“What?” Kiernan glanced toward the stairs, his

expression hardening when the sound of a door opening
reached them. “Son on a—”

“Please, come with me,” Demitri pleaded. “Those are my

parents. I don’t want them to hurt you.” He grabbed
Kiernan’s arm and tugged. “Please,” he pleaded.

For a second, Demitri didn’t think Kiernan would come,

but then he nodded. “Come on, babe,” Kiernan murmured.
“Let’s get you someplace safe.”

Kiernan followed Demitri into the massive walk-in closet.

He wedged a baseball bat under the doorknob for good

Freeing Demitri’s Wolf

measure. For several seconds, they didn’t hear anything.
Then his father’s voice drifted through the door. “Demitri,
come out now and no one has to get hurt.”

Demitri bit his lip, praying help would arrive soon. If it

had just been his parents, he wouldn’t mind taking them on.
His mother wasn’t a dominant wolf, which explained why
she let her husband call the shots. But there were at least two
others with them, and he didn’t want to risk his mate.

“You know you can’t hide from your mother, Demitri. If I

have to track you down, I’m going to be very angry!”

The more words were spoken, the louder they became,

telling Demitri they were now upstairs.

“The bathroom’s clear,” said another male. From the

voice, Demitri guessed that it was his father’s friend,
Michael.

A nose appeared, sniffing along the bottom of the door.
“Oh god,” Demitri murmured. His mother was tracking

him?

“In the closet, Rachel?” Cooper asked. “Good, girl.”
Demitri held back a snarl. How dare his father treat his

mother like a damn dog! The doorknob turned, but the bat
lodged under the handle kept them from being able to push
the door open.

As every second passed, Demitri hoped to hear Declan or

even the howling of wolves. But there was nothing.
Realizing the door wasn’t going to hold against the
intruder’s onslaught, Demitri turned around in Kiernan’s
arms. He peered up at his lover and whispered, “I love you.
No matter what happens, please know that. And I’d never
hurt you, no matter what.”

Kiernan frowned. “Just relax. The police will be here any

minute,” he stated, faithfully believing Demitri’s words.

“I can’t let anything happen to you,” Demitri said,

reaching up and touching Kiernan’s creased brow. Standing

Charlie Richards

on his toes, he pressed a quick kiss to his lips then pulled
away. Demitri gave his lover one more beseeching look,
before initiating his shift.

Over the last month and a half, Frankie had helped

Demitri become more comfortable with his wolf. He’d
managed to speed up his transition quite a bit. What used to
take a good minute, he could now complete in half that time.
His body contorted, bones snapped, and muscles popped.
Thick silver and blond fur sprouted and his tail grew.

The splinter of wood as the door gave way almost

drowned out the gasp of his lover. Demitri knew there was
no way he could reassure his lover at this point, so as soon
as a wide enough gap appeared, he launched through the
opening and attacked Michael’s leering expression.

Snarling, Demitri slammed into the man. He missed

sinking his teeth into Michael’s arm by less than an inch,
only managing to snag the guy’s coat. When Michael swung
his arm, the fabric tore, sending Demitri careening sideways
into the bed frame.

He rose on his front paws and shook his head. Michael

lifted a gun and pointed it at Demitri. Before he could get the
shot off, a golf club came down on Michael’s arm. The guy
dropped the gun and screamed, cradling the possibly broken
arm against his chest. Kiernan lifted the club again, but
before he could swing it at Cooper, the next closest man,
Rachel leaped at him. Demitri lunged, intercepting her and
they went down in a tangle of fur, teeth, and claws, snarling
and snapping.

Pain stabbed into Demitri’s shoulder. He glanced down

and spotted a feathered end.

Tranq darts!
The guy who’d shot him, Brett if Demitri remembered

correctly, swung his arm, preparing to shoot at Kiernan
where he grappled with Cooper. Demitri whimpered,

Freeing Demitri’s Wolf

struggling to get back to his feet. His legs buckled and his
vision swam.

A vicious snarl rent the air followed by the thump of

bodies. Male voices yelled. Pulling on his last reserves,
Demitri staggered back to his feet and stumbled sideways,
putting himself between their attackers where they fought a
pair of wolves he recognized as Frankie and his brother, Reb,
and his wide-eyed, shocked-looking mate.

Demitri and Kiernan’s uninvited guests turned and fled.

For a second, it seemed like the brothers would follow them,
but then soft growls from outside reached Demitri’s ears
through the open window.

Frankie trotted over to him, his head down, ears forward,

expression beseeching. Demitri knew the huge wolf was just
trying to figure out if he was okay. Unfortunately, Kiernan
didn’t know that.

“Get back,” he screamed, waving the golf club.
Demitri whimpered. He really wanted to reassure his

mate, but everything was so fuzzy. He couldn’t seem to
concentrate enough to shift back to human form.

Fortunately, Reb had no such problem and quickly

shifted. “Please, Kiernan, calm down. We’re here to help
you.”

Frankie took his cue from his brother and shifted.
“Holy shit!” Kiernan hissed. “What the hell are all of

you?”

“I am sorry ye had to find out this way,” Declan said,

striding up the stairs toward them. “If ye give me just a wee
moment of yer time, I can explain.”

Kiernan frowned, but at least he started lowering the golf

club. “How the hell can you explain? My lover turned into a
wolf. And these men…” He shook his head, his eyes turning
a little wild. “These men…”

“These men,” Declan finished for him, “are shifters.” He

Charlie Richards

held up a hand and focused on Demitri. “How ye doing,
pup? Can ye shift back, yet?”

“You talk to him like he can understand you,” Kiernan

said, clearly confused.

“Aye, he can,” Declan replied. “Just because Demitri is in

wolf form, doesn’t mean he’s any less sentient. A shifter is
the same person when either man or beast.” He paused for a
moment, lifting a brow. “I know ye’ll have questions, but
first, I need ye to take a couple deep breaths. Take a moment
to gather yerself while we see to Demitri.”

Demitri really wished it was his mate crouching in front

of him and not his alpha, but it still felt nice to have his head
rubbed. Reassuring. He whined and licked Declan’s hand.

“All right, pup,” Declan said, giving him a small smile.

“Give shifting back another go.”

It took all his concentration, but finally, Demitri felt the

tingle that heralded his shift. It started at the base of his tail,
worked up his spine, then out to his extremities. He gasped
for breath and groaned, pleased to finally have his voice
again. “Argh,” he moaned, gripping his head.

“You okay?” Frankie asked worriedly.
“Here,” Reb said, handing Declan the green-feathered

dart. “A tranq dart.”

Declan nodded. “At least it wasn’t a real bullet.” He

smiled at Demitri. “The affects will wear off before too
long.”

Frankie wrapped an arm around Demitri’s waist and

helped him to the bed. His head spun for several seconds,
and he concentrated on taking slow, even breaths. Finally,
Demitri’s vision cleared and he looked at his mate. Kiernan
stood in the corner, his hands still gripped the club’s handle
tightly—though it appeared it was just because he needed to
hold something as opposed to thinking he needed to defend
himself—and he stared at them all, his expression one of

Freeing Demitri’s Wolf

stark disbelief.

Declan leaned against the footboard and crossed his arms

over his chest. “Alright, Kiernan. Are ye ready to ask
questions? Or should we just start sharing some information
with ye that ye’ll need to know?”

“How are you guys even real? Am I dreaming?” Kiernan

shook his head slowly.

“This is real. We’re real,” Demitri said, urging with his

tone for his lover to believe, to accept. “You asked how I
could heal so fast. Well, this is how. It’s because I’m a wolf
shifter.”

Kiernan looked around at all the men. His mouth opened

and closed a few times, until finally he just shook his head.

Demitri struggled to his feet and took a halting step

toward Kiernan, then another. Five feet in front of Kiernan,
Demitri’s head once more swam and his legs gave out. To
his relief, his lover stepped forward and caught him.

“I wanted to tell you,” he whispered, his head resting

against Kiernan’s chest. “But I was scared you’d hate me,
and I love you so much.”

He felt Kiernan’s warm breath against his neck as he

spoke. “We’ve only known each other a short time. You
can’t possibly love me.”

“Yes, I can,” Demitri insisted. “You’re my mate.” He

slapped his hand over his mouth. “Shit,” he mumbled.

Kiernan cupped his jaw and tilted Demitri’s head up.

“What does that mean?”

“I—I, um—”
“Demitri, what does that mean?” Kiernan demanded.
“It means you’re his other half. His true love. Every

paranormal has one.” Frankie paused in his explanation and
grinned. “Having a shifter mate is great, because we’ll never
stray and we always try to make our mate happy.”

Kiernan pulled his gaze away from Frankie and focused

Charlie Richards

on Demitri. “You believe that—that I’m your…mate?”

Nibbling his lip, Demitri nodded. “Yeah. A shifter knows

their mate by scent. I—I’ve known for a while.”

Sighing, Kiernan helped Demitri to the bed, easing him

onto it. Then he stepped back and ran a hand over his
closely shorn scalp. “Look, this is a hell of a lot to take in,
okay?” Declan regarded him impassively, Frankie looked
concerned, and Reb opened his mouth as if to say
something. Kiernan held up his hand. “Thank you for
coming and helping us against Demitri’s parents and
their…whatever, but I think it’s time for you to leave now.”
Kiernan turned to Demitri. “You, too, Demitri.”

Demitri gasped, his heart constricting in his chest. “Wh-

what?”

“This is a little much for me. I need some time.” Kiernan

turned to Declan. “Demitri mentioned staying at a friend’s
house? Do you know who that is? Can you take him there?”

“Aye,” Declan answered, sounding way too calm when

Demitri’s world was falling apart around him. “I’ll keep him
safe.” He stood. “Frankie, Reb, gather Demitri’s things.”
After the brother’s started moving, Declan stated, “Kiernan,
if ye say anything about us to anyone, I will hear about it, so
best keep quiet.”

Kiernan scoffed and shook his head. “Who the hell would

I tell?”

“Best to not look for an answer to that,” Declan growled.

“If ye do decide ye want more information, look me up. Ye
can locate me through the forest ranger’s office, or go to
Reb’s Tattoos. Reb owns the place,” Declan added, waving a
hand toward the brother.

“Owns it,” Kiernan glanced toward the brothers again.

“Okay.”

“Come on, Demitri.” Declan helped Demitri dress. After

Frankie put Demitri’s bag on the bed, since they didn’t have

Freeing Demitri’s Wolf

any clothes, he and his brother shifted back into wolves and
trotted downstairs, ignoring Kiernan’s gasp.

Demitri glanced over his shoulder at his mate, but

Kiernan wouldn’t meet his eyes. Because he was still weak,
Declan carried Demitri’s pack and kept an arm around his
waist as he helped him down the stairs and outside. “Give
yer mate time,” he whispered once they’d cleared the door.
“This was a hard way for him to learn about us.”

“You think—You think he’ll come around?” Demitri

looked toward his alpha, desperate for reassurance.

His alpha smiled. “Have faith, pup. We’ll find a way to

get him to see reason.”

Demitri desperately hoped he was right. Once he settled

in Declan’s SUV, he asked, “Where am I going?”

“Frankie’s. I know the two of ye have become good

friends.”

He nodded absently, until he remembered what

instigated all this. “My parents. Their friends, Michael and
Brett. What happened to them? Did they get away?”

Declan shook his head as he eased the vehicle onto the

darkened street. “Nay, well, yer mother did. So did one of
their friends. The fellow with the broken arm and yer father
were caught. Carson and Shane took them to Carson’s boat
house for interrogation.” Pulling into Frankie’s driveway, he
turned off the engine and focused on Demitri. “I’m sorry to
tell ye this, Demitri, since ye’ve already had such a hard
night, but yer parents are in league with the scientists.”

Demitri sighed, his hands fisting where they rested on his

jean-clad thighs. “I can’t say that really surprises me,” he
admitted miserably. “I could never figure out why they were
so negative about shifters, especially since mom is one. Ya
know?”

“My guess would be that because of yer father’s

dominant personality, he ran roughshod over yer mother.”

Charlie Richards

He shook his head, looking sad. “I’m glad ye didn’t follow in
their footsteps, pup. Yer growin’ into a good man.” He
smiled encouragingly. “Give yer mate time to realize that.”

Demitri nodded and reached for the door handle, but

Declan’s hand on his arm stopped him. “Ye be careful until
we catch yer ma, okay? I’ll have one of our trackers keep an
eye on Kiernan, so don’t do anything foolish. If ye catch
sight of any of yer parent’s good friends, let someone know
and we’ll check them out. Understand?”

Again, he nodded. After he slipped from the vehicle,

Demitri knew Declan watched as he headed slowly up the
walk. Before he reached the door, it opened and Vince
welcomed him inside.

An hour later, he could no longer hold back the tears.

Curled up in his friend’s spare bedroom, Demitri cried
himself to sleep.

Freeing Demitri’s Wolf

Chapter Nine

iernan lounged on his sofa, mentally exhausted, but
unable to sleep. His brain wouldn’t stop churning. It’d

been three days since learning that shifters were real, that his
lover was one, and he still couldn’t get his mind wrapped
around the idea. It was impossible. If it hadn’t happened
right in his bedroom, before his very eyes, he’d never have
believed it.

Glancing toward his cell phone, Kiernan’s fingers

twitched. He knew Demitri’s number. He could call him,
hear his voice, just to make sure he was okay after being
pumped full of sedatives. Kiernan clenched his hand into a
fist and looked away. He was lying to himself and hated it.
He really missed the man—shifter.

He heaved himself to his feet. He wasn’t going to get

anything accomplished by sitting there. Maybe a good
round of housecleaning would wear him out enough to get a
decent night’s sleep.

Kiernan made the rounds of the construction site,

checking everything done the day before, even though he’d
done it last night after everyone left and knew what needed
to be done. He just wasn’t ready to face anyone yet. He
hoped after he finished his coffee, he’d feel more like himself
again. As if that’ll ever happen.

Charlie Richards

He’d dreamed of Demitri last night. His responsiveness,

his touch, his big, soulful green eyes staring up at him with
lust and affection, and Kiernan had woken with cum drying
and scratchy in his chest hairs. He hadn’t had a wet dream
since he was sixteen. Why now? Just to torture me some more?

Staring out the window, he drained the last of his coffee.

A man standing across the street caught his attention. It was
too early for most people to be out running errands, and this
guy wasn’t a jogger. He was dressed in dark blue jeans, a
black jacket, and brown hiking boots. He had a cap pulled
low, making it impossible to see his face. As Kiernan
watched, the man took one more long look around the area,
then turned and headed down the road.

Kiernan frowned. He sure hoped a thief wasn’t scoping

out his job site. That was all he needed on top of his
craptastic week. The idea of sliding into Demitri’s warm
willing body, listening to his cries of passion, getting lost in
the act of loving the man, pushed its way into his mind. It
would take away all his problems for a time, except, Demitri
came with his own set of problems.

Turning away from the window, Kiernan decided he’d

have to remain vigilant and keep an eye on supplies and
equipment. Sure, there was a fence around the site, but that
didn’t mean a determined thief couldn’t easily cut a hole in
the chain link.

Time to start the day, Kiernan decided.

“That looks really good, Joe,” Kiernan praised. He felt

relieved the man hadn’t fought with him any more about
fixing the stone hearth on the chimney. Using the correct
design to make it look authentic made all the difference.

“Thanks,” Joe replied. The man looked at him, his eyes

narrowed, as if trying to decide about something, but then
all he said was, “I’m gonna grab a cup of coffee then get

Freeing Demitri’s Wolf

started on the bed frames.”

Kiernan nodded and watched him walk away.
Ready for a coffee refill himself, Kiernan wandered

toward a nearly complete front room. Since the construction
had been moved to other areas, they’d set up a card table
with a coffee pot and insulated cups, just in case someone
forgot their travel mug.

Kiernan refilled his mug. Lifting it to his mouth, he blew

on the steaming liquid as he glanced outside…and frowned.
He couldn’t be sure if it was the same man, since now he
wore a black t-shirt in the afternoon heat, but he was
definitely watching the building.

“Who the hell?” he muttered.
“I’ve noticed him a few times over the last couple days,”

Joe commented from where he was fixing his own cup of
coffee. “You recognize him?”

“No, I—” Just then, the guy pulled his cap off his head

and ran a hand through thick hair, revealing a round face,
glasses, and dark brown curls. “Son-of-a-bitch,” he snarled.
“That’s—”

Shit, I can’t really tell Joe that he shot Demitri with a tranq dart

after Demitri turned into a wolf.

“Old friend?”
“No, he broke into my house and…” Kiernan frowned,

wondering if he should suck it up and head to Reb’s. Tell
him he thought the missing guy was hanging around his
construction site. Were they watching Kiernan because they
thought Demitri would be there? That thought caused a
whole new wave of panic to wash over Kiernan. Where was
Demitri? Was he safe?

To Kiernan’s utter shock, Joe glanced around, then leaned

close and murmured, “So that’s one of the ones that got
away, huh? I thought he matched the description.”

Kiernan swung around, sloshing coffee over his hand.

Charlie Richards

“What did you say?” he growled.

Joe looked around again surreptitiously. “I don’t think we

should talk about this here. Why don’t we meet for a beer?”

Kiernan’s initial response was to refuse. Have a beer with

a guy who wasn’t human? No fucking way.

Evidently, Joe must have read his expression, for he

chuckled and whispered, “By the way, I’m human.” He
patted him on the shoulder. “You wanna talk, meet me at
Riley’s at six. First round’s on me.”

It was five after six and Kiernan was still sitting in his

truck. He’d been there for ten minutes. Did he want to know
more about shifters? Would it make a difference about how
he felt about Demitri if he did? What could a human tell him
anyway?

Deciding there was only one way to find out, Kiernan

pushed the truck door open and headed inside the pub. He
swept his gaze over the dim interior and spotted Joe in the
back at a secluded table, nursing a beer. Kiernan made his
way there and eased into the booth across from the man. Joe
flagged down a waiter and ordered a beer for Kiernan. They
remained silent as they waited for it, and Kiernan felt a lot
like how a bug under a microscope must feel.

Finally, once the waiter placed a beer in front of Kiernan,

Joe commented, “Didn’t really think you’d show up.”

“Didn’t think I would either,” Kiernan admitted.
Joe took a sip of his beer. Setting it on the table, he leaned

forward and softly asked, “Then why did you?”

Kiernan glanced around the place and grabbed his beer.

“So, how do you know about…them.”

Smiling faintly, Joe replied, “They’re called shifters, and

most of them are good people.” He shrugged. “Just like us,
they have their bad seeds, but they actually do a really good
job of keeping them in line.” Rolling his eyes, he muttered,

Freeing Demitri’s Wolf

“Not like humans do.”

“What are you talking about? And you didn’t answer my

question,” Kiernan pointed out, glaring.

Joe rolled his eyes. “I mean, the reason so few people

know about them is because they understand the value of
secrecy. Even when there’s fighting amongst them, they’re
careful. Yes, there are a small number of bigoted scientists,
which I’ve heard want your boy.” He grimaced. “I’ve heard
about what happens to them when they’re caught.” Joe
shook his head, his expression taking on a pained
expression. “I wouldn’t wish that on my worst enemy.”

“What? Who wants Demitri? Why?” he snapped. The idea

of someone kidnapping and hurting his lover when he could
do something to stop it turned his stomach.

“Keep your voice down,” Joe admonished.
Kiernan glared at him.
Shaking his head, Joe leaned forward again. “I know

about shifters because I’m mated to one. My wife is a wolf
shifter and the most amazing woman I’ve ever met. I can’t
imagine being happier.”

His jaw dropped. Kiernan couldn’t help it. “You’re mated

to one?”

Joe scoffed. “Don’t act so surprised. Plenty of humans are.

If you’d get your head out of your ass and accept your mate,
you’d be a hell of a lot happier.”

Kiernan reared back, trying to think of something to say.

“What the hell?” Okay, that wasn’t the most articulate
response.

“Look,” Joe said, his voice softening. “I’ll be the first to

admit that finding out about them is shocking, and there are
a hell of a lot of things to adjust to, the fact that they can turn
into a cognizant animal not-with-standing.” He smirked.
“But the benefits far outweigh any cons.”

Wait, what? What was that supposed to mean? Maybe he

Charlie Richards

should have given his lover and his friends a chance to
explain things to him. “Okay, explain that. Pros and cons?”

“Okay,” Joe said, drawing the word out. He took a sip of

his beer, his gaze straying as he obviously thought about his
next words. “Okay,” he said again, returning his focus to
Kiernan. “Pro, you will never have to worry about your
lover cheating. They’re completely faithful. Always. As long
as you’re not an abusive asshole, they’ll give you
unconditional love.” He rolled his eyes. “Hell, they’d
probably still love you. Anyway, con, once you’re mated,
you’ll die if they die and vise-versa, probably of a broken
heart or going crazy. It depends on the person.”

“Geez-us,” Kiernan muttered.
“Pro, your aging process will slow, allowing you to match

your life-span to them, possibly living four or five centuries.
As a result, you’ll heal faster. Not as fast as them, but pretty
darn fast,” he continued as if Kiernan hadn’t said anything.
“Con, you could very well outlive any family not also mated
to a shifter or other paranormal.”

Other paranormal? There are more than shifters out there?
Joe kept talking, this time smirking. “Pro, if you ever need

help moving or building something, you have a built in
work force. Pack-mates are normally happy to help their
own.” He grimaced and shrugged. “Con, you become a
target for crazy scientists. If they catch you, they control
your shifter mate.”

Finally, Joe lapsed into silence, sitting back and drinking

his beer.

“Wow, that’s, uh, that’s something,” Kiernan said quietly.

With Demitri, he’d never have to worry about cheating, but
it sounded like he’d have to worry about a silent war with
scientists. And he’d outlive his daughter? Shit, that’d be
hard. Desperately needing a subject change, he asked, “So,
how did you and your wife meet?”

Freeing Demitri’s Wolf

Getting a wistful, almost sappy, look on his face, Joe said,

“She was going to college in Colorado Springs. There was
water damage in her dorm, and I worked for the contractor
who won the job. God, seeing her for the first time…it was
like I was struck by lightning.” He grinned. “She walked
right up to me and asked me out.” Shrugging, he added,
“She finished school with a degree in business. I followed
her here. And the rest, as they say, is history.”

“And the whole mate thing?” he pressed, unable to help

himself.

Joe shrugged. “I won’t lie and say I took everything in

stride, because I didn’t. When I saw her shift the first time, I
freaked the fuck out.” He smirked and tipped his beer
toward Kiernan. “Similar to what you’re doing now.
Fortunately, it only took me a couple days to realize I’d
rather take her any way I could get her than let her go.”

“Huh,” Kiernan grunted noncommittally. Did he feel that

way about Demitri? A pang shot through his chest thinking
of his lover. Shit, he missed him.

Once Joe finished his beer, he stood. “If you don’t have

any more questions, I’m gonna get home to my wife,” he
said with a wink.

Kiernan grabbed his wrist as something occurred to him.

“Yeah, why are the scientists after Demitri?” he whispered.

Joe planted a palm on the table and leaned close enough

to tell him quietly, “It’s circulating around the pack that his
parents were in league with the scientists we’ve been
struggling against for the last few years. Now, we don’t
know if they’ve been helping them from the beginning, or
just started recently. Last I heard, they’re still trying to get
Demitri’s father and the other guy they caught to talk.” He
hesitated for just a second, then added, “Everyone’s on alert.
If Demitri’s mother shows up, or any strangers from out of
town, Declan wants to know. As you know, they’ve already

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gone after Demitri once. Alpha wants to know why.”

Before Kiernan could even fathom a question, or even a

response, Joe pulled free of his grip and strode from the bar.
Kiernan sat there, stunned. “Well, fuck,” he muttered. Well, I
did come in for answers. He just wasn’t sure he liked the ones
he got.

“You want another beer, sugar?”
Kiernan looked up at the waitress smiling down at him.

“No,” he decided quickly. He needed something a lot
stronger than that. He had a bottle of tequila at home calling
his name.

There wasn’t shit on TV and it was really beginning to

piss him off. When his phone rang, he set his tumbler down
on an end table and grabbed his phone. He hated how much
disappointment he felt when he saw that it was Valerie, not
Demitri.

“Hey, sweetheart,” he said, forcing joviality into his voice

that he didn’t feel.

His daughter wasn’t fooled. “Dad? What’s wrong?”
“God, everything,” he muttered before he could get his

inebriated brain to control his tongue.

“Dad?”
“Sorry, sweetheart. Just…had a fight with Demitri.”

Okay, so that was a lie, but whatever. It wasn’t like he could
tell her the truth. He’d given his word.

“Oh, Dad. I’m sorry. I know how much you really liked

him. What happened?” Valerie pressed. “What was it
about?”

“Oh, God,” he muttered. What the hell could he tell her?
“Did the age thing turn out to be a problem?” she asked.
“No,” he scoffed. “Like you pointed out. Mentally he’s

way older than his age. He already knows what he wants to
be when he grows up.” Rolling his eyes, he dropped his

Freeing Demitri’s Wolf

head against the back cushion of the sofa. “I hadn’t figured
that out until I was twenty-three.”

“So, what? You don’t agree with his choice of career?”

Valerie pressed.

Huffing, Kiernan let his eyelids slide shut. “No. He wants

to be a park ranger. He has some park ranger buddies, and
they’re helping him figure out what he needs to do to
become one. You know…what classes to take and stuff.” He
had to work extra hard not to slur his words, especially as
the goofy smile curved the corners of his lips. “They’re even
helping him get a summer internship so he can get a leg up.”

“Okay,” Valerie murmured, drawing the word out.

Kiernan could practically hear the concern in her voice.
“Well, I can’t help if you won’t tell me what’s up.”

“I know, sweetheart. I—” He heaved a sigh. His head

began to swim, so he forced his eyes open and focused on
the floor. “He’s…he’s got some serious family issues.
They’re…they’re dangerous,” he admitted. “I don’t know
how to explain it without sounding like an insensitive
bastard.”

Fucking hell, is that what I am? An insensitive bastard because

I won’t accept his differences? Am I just as bigoted as the scientists
that want him caught?

“Let me ask you this,” Valerie said softly, interrupting his

thoughts. “If Demitri was going to die next week, would it
matter about this…whatever these family issues are that you
seem to have a problem with? Or would you still want to
spend every waking moment with him?”

“I—I wish I knew,” Kiernan whispered. But he did know.

Now if he could just figure out how to fix what his
insensitive reaction must have surely broken.

Charlie Richards

Chapter Ten

emitri carefully spiked his hair, then applied a hint of
blush, eye shadow, and lip-gloss. He never wore a lot,

just a dusting, but just putting it on made him feel more like
himself. After the failed kidnapping attempt and his mate’s
rejection, Demitri had missed two days of work. He hadn’t
wanted to see if Kiernan would stop coming to see him at
lunch.

Returning to work yesterday had been tough, and he’d

almost cried when every minute passed one o’clock made it
more and more painfully clear that Kiernan wasn’t coming.

Sighing, Demitri left the bathroom and headed toward the

front. He was almost to the door, Frankie’s spare house key
in hand, when Vince appeared. “You need a ride?” the
vampire asked.

“Um, no, that’s okay. It’s only a thirty-minute walk. I

don’t mind,” he said, giving his friend’s mate a smile.

Vince grinned. “Okay, let me rephrase that. Let me get my

keys and I’ll drive you,” he said. Demitri couldn’t hide his
confused look, and Vince patted him on the shoulder.
“Sorry. Declan doesn’t want you alone on the street until
your mother and her buddy are found,” he explained.

“Oh,” he mumbled. “Okay.”
Yesterday, he’d just thought Frankie was being nice by

driving him to and from work. His buddy was always nice,

Freeing Demitri’s Wolf

supportive, helpful, a good wolf shifter. He couldn’t ask for
a better friend. Now, Demitri knew there was an alternate
reason, although he probably would have done it even
without their alpha’s orders.

Seconds later, Vince reappeared and led the way out the

door. “Off we go then,” the vampire said. Once they’d
settled in Vince’s SUV, he glanced at him and asked, “How
are you holding up?”

Demitri shrugged. “Okay, I guess. I try not to think about

it,” he admitted.

“If he doesn’t come around, you know we’ll help coerce

him, right?” Vince grinned, showing off his fangs, and
winked. “That’s what friends are for.”

Rolling his eyes, Demitri shook his head. “I don’t actually

want him coerced.”

Vince nodded, his voice more subdued. “I know.” He

pulled into the restaurant parking lot and stopped near the
door. “What time do you get off?”

“Nine tonight,” he said. At least he didn’t have a lunch

shift again and wouldn’t be watching for Kiernan every
second. He’d only come in for dinner that one time. At least,
as far as Demitri knew.

Vince nodded. “See you then.”
Demitri headed inside and greeted Jessica at the hostess

stand. “Hey, Demitri,” she said, smiling. “You’re looking so
much better. Glad you stayed home and didn’t spread it
around. So was that one of your boyfriends? I’m counting
three in the past week. I bet you had hotties waiting on you
hand and foot,” she teased, winking.

Trying not to blush, Demitri mumbled, “No, he’s just a

friend,” and hurried past. Jessica’s soft, musical laughter
followed him as he hurried down the hall to the employee
area. Demitri knew Jessica was acting floor manager and
didn’t usually hang out up front. But since she did know

Charlie Richards

every position of the restaurant, if someone called in, she’d
help pick up the slack. He absently wondered who was out.

He grabbed his apron off the hook, hung up his jacket—

it’d be chilly later—and clipped his nametag to his shirt.
After taking a fortifying breath, Demitri pasted a smile on
his face and got to work.

Wiping down the surface of a table, Demitri glanced at

the clock, fifteen minutes to closing. That was good. He was
ready to be done. Maybe he could talk Frankie and his
brother into taking him for a run. That’d be nice, feeling the
earth beneath his paws. He normally had tracking lessons
with Nick on Sundays, but he’d been too depressed to go.

The front door’s bell jingled, and Demitri bit back a groan.

Why the hell did customers insist on entering an eating
establishment—he glanced at the clock again—ten minutes
before closing?

“Hey, Mister K,” Jessica greeted perkily. “You here for a

cup of coffee or just to see Demitri?”

“Just to see Demitri. Think I could steal him for a couple

minutes or just hang out until he’s done?”

Hearing her words, coupled with the deep voice of his

mate, Declan froze. He struggled to continue breathing as all
his blood flowed south, making him light-headed. Had
Kiernan’s voice always sounded that good? Or was it just
because he hadn’t seen or heard him in four days?

“Um, it looks like he’s wiping down his last table. You

can snag him for a minute,” Jessica said. “I’ll need him back
in ten for a few things, but until then, he’s all yours.”

Was it Demitri’s imagination, or was there sexual

innuendo in his boss’s voice? He could feel the flush
working up the back of his neck. His hand clenched on the
cloth, reminding him he needed to finish wiping the table.
Acting on autopilot, he finished the task, all the while

Freeing Demitri’s Wolf

listening to the whisper of shoes scuffing on carpet.

“Hey, Demitri,” Kiernan murmured. “Can we talk?”
Slowly, he straightened, tucking the rag into his apron,

and turned to face his mate. Gods, he looks amazing. Demitri
swallowed hard, then managed to find his voice. “I think
what we need to talk about can’t be done here,” he said
quietly.

“You’re right,” Kiernan replied softly. “Five minutes, in

the bathroom. Please.”

Demitri licked his lips, then nodded. “Sure. Okay.” He

followed Kiernan to the men’s room. Five minutes? That was
about how long it would take to give someone a kiss-off, right? His
heart tightened in his chest. Was Kiernan going to tell him
he didn’t want to have anything to do with him?

As soon as the door closed behind him, Kiernan grabbed

his arm and yanked him against his chest. Demitri gave an
unmanly squeak at the move. A warm broad hand gripped
the nape of his neck and firm lips claimed his own. Kiernan
slid his tongue into Demitri’s mouth, forcing it wider.

Kiernan dominated his mouth, twining their tongues as

their teeth clacked together. Demitri moaned and clutched at
Kiernan’s shirt as he melted against the man he’d missed so
much.

“Demitri,” Kiernan muttered, the word muffled since he

still hadn’t pulled his lips away from Demitri’s. Then for the
next couple of minutes, there was no talking. Kiernan
wrapped his arms around him, held him tight, and
devoured him. His mate sucked his tongue, his bottom lip,
and mapped his mouth.

Finally, when breathing became paramount, Kiernan

lifted his head just enough to fill their lungs. “Come home
with me,” Kiernan pleaded. “We’ll talk. I’ll tell you all about
how sorry I am, and how much I want another chance.
Please?”

Charlie Richards

Staring at Kiernan in stunned silence, Demitri couldn’t

seem to get words past his throat.

Evidently, Kiernan took that as uncertainty. “Please,” he

said again. “I’m sorry I freaked out. I really am, but you
can’t really blame me.” He grimaced and shook his head.
“Give me another chance to meet your…your wolf,” he
begged, his voice hitching, telling Demitri that he was still
uneasy, but at least he was trying.

“Yes,” Demitri finally got out. “Yes, I’ll go with you.”
“Thank you. Thank you, thank you, thank you.” Between

each thank you Kiernan pecked a kiss to his lips. “I—I
appreciate it. More than you could ever know.”

“Thank you,” Demitri said when he could finally get a

word in edge-wise.

Kiernan smiled, the move lighting up his pale, silver-blue

eyes with such pleasure. “Shall I wait for you out front?”

Demitri nodded. “I won’t be long.”
“See you soon.” Kiernan captured his mouth, thrusting

his tongue deep in feral possession, then just as suddenly
released him and slipped out of the bathroom.

It took a couple minutes of willing his erection away

before Demitri could step outside without embarrassing
himself. Too bad as soon as he saw Jessica and she gave him
a wink, he flushed hot. He just knew he’d given himself
away.

Demitri hustled out of the restaurant and toward

Kiernan’s truck. If he heard one more joke about him,
Kiernan, and the bathroom, he thought his head would
explode. It was hard to get angry since he knew they all
meant well and were happy for him.

“Can’t wait,” Kiernan muttered as soon as Demitri closed

the truck door, reaching across the cab to cup his head and
pull him close. Demitri was all too happy to acquiesce,

Freeing Demitri’s Wolf

sinking into Kiernan’s embrace, draping himself across the
seat. Kiernan nibbled his lip, then tugged gently between his
teeth as he pulled away, finally releasing when Demitri
shivered.

Kiernan grinned at him. “Ready to go?”
Demitri nodded, too out of breath to answer.
Evidently figuring out his problem, Kiernan’s grin turned

lascivious. He winked, then he focused on driving. It took
everything in Demitri not to reach over and touch. His
phone rang, yanking him out of his thoughts. He pulled out
his phone and cringed. “Damn, I forgot to tell Frankie.”

“Better answer it,” Kiernan told him. “But tell him you’re

at my place for the night, because I’ll be damned if I let you
go before morning,” he growled.

Shivering at the lust filling Kiernan’s tone, Demitri

nodded quickly. “Okay.” He answered breathlessly. “Hey,
Frankie?”

“Where are you? Are you okay?”
Demitri grimaced. He hated that he’d made his friend

worry. “Yes. I’m okay. Um, I’m really sorry I didn’t call you
but…well, I guess I got a bit distracted. Kiernan dropped by
the diner.”

“Oh—OH! Is he there now?” Frankie asked excitedly.
“Yeah, he, uh, I’m at his place,” Demitri admitted. “We

just pulled up,” he added, as Kiernan parked the truck in
front of his home.

To his surprise, Frankie remained quiet for several

seconds, then demanded, “I want to talk to him.”

Demitri’s eyes widened and he turned toward Kiernan.

“Frankie wants to talk to you.”

Kiernan nodded slowly, reaching for the phone. “That

was the big guy who turned into a strawberry blond wolf,
right?”

Impressed that, even in his panicked state, Kiernan had

Charlie Richards

paid that much attention, Demitri just nodded dumbly.

“This is Kiernan.”
Because of his heightened shifter hearing, Demitri didn’t

have any trouble hearing Frankie’s half of the conversation.

“Okay, it’s really you. I recognize your voice. I just

wanted to make sure, because if you were scientists, I’d hunt
you down and shred you,” Frankie stated succinctly.

“Uh, okay,” Kiernan replied slowly. He frowned, then

growled, “I don’t plan to ever allow Kiernan to be caught by
those assholes. I’ll kill them all if they come after him again.”

“Great. That’s what I like to hear,” Frankie responded

without missing a beat. “Okay, tell Demitri to call if he needs
anything.”

Kiernan handed him back the phone. “Uh…he said—”
Demitri nodded. “I heard what he said.”
“You did?” Kiernan asked, clearly surprised.
He blushed. They hadn’t covered that, had they? “Yeah.

Uh, shifters, um, they have more sensitive hearing and
eyesight. They’re stronger and faster and are harder to
injure. Heal faster,” he paused, trying to decide if he’d
forgotten anything.

“Come inside,” Kiernan urged, interrupting his thoughts.
Demitri nodded and followed.
Once locked inside Kiernan’s cottage, Demitri’s lover

grabbed his hand and led him up to the bedroom. He urged
him to sit on the bed, his back against the headboard.
Kiernan settled opposite him against the footboard. “Okay,
so you have increased abilities. Fine.” He nodded, then
added, “One of my co-workers is mated to a shifter, and he
explained a few things.”

Demitri cocked his head and listened. To his surprise,

Kiernan’s buddy—who was evidently mated to Jenna—
Jenna and Joe—Demitri had always thought them a nice
couple—had given him a number of pros, cons, and general

Freeing Demitri’s Wolf

good information.

Finally, Kiernan mused, “So other than the stuff you

added on, what do I need to know? How do we mate?”

He couldn’t help it. His cheeks warmed in a blush. “Um,

between everything, I think you have plenty of
information…” Shit, but would his mate be willing? “Um, as
far as mating, well, I need to claim you, uh, I’d have to,
well…” He flushed harder.

Kiernan smiled. “Ah, I see. You’d have to top me. Is that

right?”

“Yeah, yeah,” he murmured. “Um, there is a bite

involved. Where I sink my canines into your, uh, here.” He
touched where his shoulder met his neck. “It’s supposed to
be super enjoyable, though, so no worries there.”

His lover smirked. “You assure me about your bite but

worry about having to top me? How do you know I don’t
look forward to your cock in my ass?”

Demitri gasped. “Well, you…you…always seem so…so

dominant. I didn’t think you’d, well, you know. Like
bottoming?”

Kiernan chuckled lowly, sensually, as he rolled to his

knees and started crawling up the bed. “I don’t mind
bottoming on occasion, darling,” he purred throatily. “It’s
control I like.

His breathing hitched in his chest. “I—Oh. Then

how…how do we do this?” he rushed out the words.

Demitri could do nothing but stare as he watched Kiernan

pull the lube and a condom from the nightstand. His ardor
eased as he realized his mistake. “Oh, shit, I forgot to tell
you.”

Kiernan rose from the bed and started pulling off his

clothes. “Forgot to tell me what?” he asked absently before
ordering, “Strip.”

“No condom,” Demitri blurted.

Charlie Richards

Pausing as he kicked out of his sneakers, Kiernan focused

on him fully. “Excuse me?”

Demitri opened and closed his mouth for a second,

struggling—it wasn’t like he talked about sex…ever—then
bolstered his courage. “For me to claim you there can’t be a
condom between us. I need to, um, spill…” He just knew his
face looked like a cooked lobster. “Spill in you,” he
mumbled, lowering his gaze and focusing on his jeans.

For a second, only the sound of fabric rustling filled the

room. Then, Kiernan’s warm fingers gripped Demitri’s chin
gently and forced his face up so he could look him in the
eye. A very naked Kiernan. “You’re so sexy,” Demitri
whispered. When they’d made love last time, he’d been so
out of his mind with pleasure, he hadn’t really had a chance
to touch and explore Kiernan. His fingers itched to do so
now.

Kiernan smiled. “Thank you.” Then he held up the

condom. Demitri stared at it dumbly. “No condom,”
Kiernan whispered. Demitri nodded. “Okay. I trust you.”

“You do?” Demitri whispered absently as he watched

Kiernan drop the foil square back into the nightstand
drawer.

“Yeah. You wouldn’t put me at risk.” Kiernan sounded so

confident. “Now,” he said, redrawing Demitri’s attention.
“You haven’t stripped, yet.” He stepped back and smirked.
“I get the distinct impression you are having trouble
focusing.”

With Kiernan’s broad, strong chest tapering down to a

trim waist, just the barest hint of love handles forming, to
the thick, hard cock on display, Demitri didn’t know how he
was supposed to focus on anything. His mouth watered. He
wanted to taste his mate.

“Strip and I’ll let you suck me for a moment while I

prepare myself.”

Freeing Demitri’s Wolf

Demitri mewled at Kiernan’s words, his cock oozing in

his jeans. Sliding off the bed, he made quick work of his
clothes. “Fold your clothes and put them on the chair with
mine, Demitri,” Kiernan demanded.

Ducking his head, he quickly obeyed.
When he returned to the bed, Demitri nearly swallowed

his tongue. His lover had shoved the comforter down, so he
lounged on the navy sheet. Mostly on his side, one knee
pointed toward the ceiling, showing off his thick cock. The
heavy shaft curved up, nearly reaching his belly button, pre-
cum oozing from the slit. One of Kiernan’s hands was
behind him and from the way his arm moved, Demitri just
knew he was stretching himself.

Kiernan stared at Demitri with lust and heat, his

expression an invitation in and of itself. Still, with his free
hand, he cupped his balls and used his thumb to pull his
dripping cock away from his abs. “Come on, then. Suck me,
babe.”

Demitri was only too happy to comply. He crawled onto

the bed, his gaze riveted on the engorged organ. Lifting a
hand, he gently traced the pulsing vein. “I’ve never done
this before,” he whispered almost reverently. His fingers
reached the cap, and he circled one around the glans,
spreading the pre-cum over the sensitive cap, massaging
gently.

Kiernan shivered. “Just do what comes natural, but watch

your teeth.”

Surprised to hear how out of breath Kiernan sounded,

Demitri looked up to find his lover’s face and chest flushed,
desire and lust etched on his features. Grinning, he returned
to Kiernan’s cock and wrapped his lips around the head,
sucking strongly. He fit as much of his lover’s dick as he
could into his mouth, sinking down the shaft, until his gag
reflex forced him to retreat. Demitri massaged the man’s

Charlie Richards

100

vein, trying to give as much stimulation as possible as he did
it all again.

Kiernan grunted. “Hell, yeah. Take it, Demitri,” he

growled, threading his fingers through his hair and cupping
his head. He started thrusting shallowly. Demitri looked at
his lover through his lashes. The feral delight on Kiernan’s
face made Demitri smile around his mouthful of meat, and
he sucked harder, careful to keep his teeth covered.

“Shit,” Kiernan hissed. He tightened his hand in Demitri’s

hair and used the hold to pull him away. “Fuck me now,
Demitri,” he demanded.

Demitri’s cock, which he’d been pointedly ignoring so he

didn’t come just from tasting his mate’s amazing pre-cum,
jerked at Kiernan’s words. As soon as he pulled off his sexy
human’s shaft, Kiernan rolled to his back and spread his
legs. Demitri knee-walked across the bed, his dick waving
like a flag in front of him.

Once he was between Kiernan’s legs, his lover reached up

and gripped his erection. Demitri moaned, his eyelids
sliding shut in bliss, as Kiernan jacked his cock, greasing him
with the excess lube on his fingers. When Kiernan’s hand
disappeared, he whimpered at the loss.

“Come on, lover,” Kiernan urged gruffly. “Now.”
“Yeah,” Demitri panted. His body practically vibrated

with excitement.

Leaning over his mate, Demitri grabbed the base of his

dick and guided it to Kiernan’s stretched hole. As he
pushed, Kiernan breathed out slowly, relaxing, and his cock
head pushed into the hot vice of his mate’s body.

Demitri’s eyes widened in shock at the sensation. Staring

down where the head of his penis disappeared inside
Kiernan’s body, seeing them connected that way, Demitri’s
balls pulled tight. He whimpered and clenched his eyes
tight, struggling not to come.

Freeing Demitri’s Wolf

101

“Easy, Demitri,” Kiernan crooned. “Just breathe. Relax.”
Listening to his mate’s soft words, Demitri nodded. He

felt the boil in his balls ease, and the urge to spill his seed
passed. Demitri pushed, and Kiernan’s body seemed to suck
him in until he was buried balls deep in his mate. Groaning,
he lay over his lover’s broad chest and rubbed his cheek
across the hair covering one peck. He shivered.

“Never felt anything like this,” he whispered, loving the

heat and pressure on his dick, the feel of his mate’s heaving
body beneath him, and the way his lover wrapped his arms
around him and held him tight.

“Move, baby,” Kiernan whispered into his ear. “Pound

into me. I wanna feel you in the morning.” Kiernan kissed
the top of his head. “Let’s see what ya got, my sexy shifter.”

Whining in excitement, Demitri did exactly as told.

Lifting up slightly so he could look into his lover’s eyes, he
started to move, pulling his cock out slowly then slamming
back in. Within seconds, Demitri panted harshly and thrust
wildly into his willing mate.

The way Kiernan held his gaze, his lips curling away from

his teeth in a feral grin and his eyes glowing almost silver
with pleasure, egged Demitri to thrust faster, driving his
shaft into him again and again. Kiernan’s whispered
demands—come on, baby, that’s it, right there, harder—spurred
Demitri on, driving him to please his mate. His lover’s
touch, the way Kiernan stroked his fingers along Demitri’s
spine, then grabbed his forearms so he could rock his lower
body into each of his thrusts, assured him of his mate’s equal
enthusiasm and enjoyment.

A tingle started at the base of Demitri’s neck, sparking

down his spine to his tailbone and pulling his balls tight to
his body. His cock swelled. His canines lengthened.
Howling, Demitri thrust twice more, then snapped his head
forward and sank his teeth into the flesh of his lover where

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102

neck met shoulder.

He moaned in bliss as his cock spewed his seed, coating

his mate’s rectum, marking him inside while his bite marked
him outside. He drank down several mouthfuls of his mate’s
exquisite blood, shivering at the taste as much as the feeling
of being complete.

Kiernan groaned underneath him, clutching Demitri tight

to his chest. Warm seed oozed between their bodies as his
lover shuddered hard and came.

Demitri remembered himself enough to remove his teeth

gently from Kiernan’s neck and lick the claiming mark clean.
Kiernan turned his head and caught his mouth in a soft
meeting of lips, sipping and nibbling. Holding him close
with an arm around his torso, Kiernan sank the other hand
in his hair and controlled the kiss. Demitri didn’t know how
long they made out, enjoying each other’s soothing touches
as they came down from their endorphin highs.

Finally, Kiernan eased the kiss to an end. Staring into his

eyes, Kiernan traced his top lip. “That’s why you bit your
cheek the first time,” he mused softly. “Because you wanted
to claim me and didn’t.”

Nodding, Demitri replied, “It wouldn’t have been right.”
“I appreciate your thoughtfulness, darling.”
Kiernan brushed his lips over Demitri’s, back and forth

sensually. The soft pressure distracted Demitri from the
tingles racing through his groin caused by his softening cock
slipping from Kiernan’s channel.

Smirking, a mischievous glint in his eyes, Kiernan teased,

“I’d planned to have you suck me off once you finished. I
didn’t realize I’d come from your bite. So fucking sexy.”

“I told you so,” Demitri replied cheekily.
Kiernan laughed. “So you did.” He smacked Demitri’s

hip. “Okay, lover. Time for a shower. Dried cum in chest
hair is not comfortable.”

Freeing Demitri’s Wolf

103

Happier than he ever remembered, Demitri followed his

lover into the bathroom.

Charlie Richards

104

Chapter Eleven

think I’m in the mood for bacon and eggs for
breakfast,” Kiernan stated, leading the way downstairs.

Bright sunlight through the back windows made him squint,
and he walked to them to adjust the blinds. “What do you
think?” He turned to see his lover—clad only in a pair of
Kiernan’s boxers—nibbling his lip.

Kiernan smiled at the endearing sight. “I love you.” At

Demitri’s shocked expression, Kiernan shrugged, keeping
his smile firmly fixed in place. “I thought you should know.
I’m not sure how it happened so fast.” He crossed to the
coffee pot and lifted it. “Coffee?”

Geez, why the hell did I say that? He’s staring at me as if I have

two heads.

“No, thanks,” Demitri replied softly.
Grabbing a cup, Kiernan filled his mug while continuing

his internal criticism. He told me once that I was his one and

only. Shouldn’t that mean he loves me back? What if he doesn’t?
What if shifters don’t fall in love like humans?

“After everything that’s happened,” Demitri said,

catching Kiernan’s attention. “I wasn’t sure you could fall in
love with me. I mean, I always hoped.” He paused and
smiled tremulously. “But after seeing what happened with
my parents, I didn’t—”

“Hey, hey,” Kiernan cut him off. Damn, my lover has more

doubts than I do! Setting down his cup, he crossed to Demitri

“I

Freeing Demitri’s Wolf

105

and cupped his face so he could stare into his shifter’s pretty
green eyes. “Your parents are a horrible example. Yes, I love
you. I think you’re kind and sweet. You have such a big
heart, and you’re sexy. Even if we weren’t mates, I’d still
have been drooling over you.” At each word, Demitri’s eyes
seemed to widen more. “I’m grateful to have found you. At
my age, I’d kinda given up hope,” he admitted.

Suddenly, Kiernan found himself with an armful of hot,

excited male. Demitri whined into his mouth as he clung to
him, kissing him frantically. Kiernan took everything his
lover gave him and returned it tenfold, delving his tongue
past Demitri’s lips and tangling their tongues, tasting mint
from his toothpaste and underneath that, the unique
masculine flavor that was all Demitri.

“I love you, too, so much. I love you.”
Demitri’s words were hard to understand, but Kiernan’s

heart still soared at his lover’s admission. He started to steer
the younger man toward the stairs and their bed. Breakfast
could wait.

Glass shattering followed by a feminine screech yanked

Kiernan out of the plans he was forming to fuck Demitri
through the mattress. Kiernan lifted his head and spotted a
slender, toned blond woman wearing sweats and a sports
bra standing inside his dining room. The sliding glass door
behind her was shattered.

“Who the hell are you?” Kiernan shouted.
“That’s my mom, Rachel,” Demitri whispered, clearly just

as shocked.

“You will cease this behavior at once,” she snarled. “You

are not gay and you will take your father’s place helping me
expose shifters for the vile creatures they are.”

Demitri’s jaw dropped. “But you’re a shifter, too.” Then

he glared and yelled back. “And I am gay. Kiernan is my
mate. I’ve claimed him!”

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106

“I won’t be a shifter much longer,” Rachel snapped. “And

neither will you. My friends will exorcise these animal
demons that plague us!”

Kiernan watched in stunned silence as Demitri yelled

back, “They’re not demons. Our wolves are part of us!”

“No!” Rachel screamed. Something in her eyes didn’t look

quite right to Kiernan. When she stripped and started
shifting, he knew he was right. Rachel had gone round the
bend.

“Shit, she’s not all there,” Kiernan warned.
“I know,” Demitri replied as he kicked off his boxers.
Even though he’d started shifting after Rachel, Demitri

reached his wolf form first. The crunch of glass tore
Kiernan’s gaze away from where his lover charged his
mother. The man with glasses from the other night was
walking into his house, and he held a tranq gun.

Not again!
Turning, Kiernan grabbed the nearly empty bottle of

tequila, suddenly grateful he’d never bothered to put it
away. He chucked it at the man. His aim was true. It hit the
guy in the head. The man roared in pain and stumbled back
a step, blood dripping down his temple.

Kiernan yanked open the drawer of his end table and

shoved aside a couple magazines. Underneath he found it,
the .357 Ruger his father had given him for protection when
he’d come out to him at age twenty-five. He didn’t use it
much anymore, although he always kept his concealed carry
permit current.

A glance up showed him the guy regaining his senses. To

Kiernan’s relief, he spotted his lover easily holding his own
against his mother.

Popping the safety, he lifted the gun and pointed it at the

guy. “Freeze,” he yelled, then mentally rolled his eyes.

Freeze, really?

Freeing Demitri’s Wolf

107

The guy looked up at him and, for a second, he obeyed.

Then he spun on his heel and started running. “No fucking
way,” Kiernan snarled. Lowering his aim, he squeezed the
trigger. The report echoed in his ears, making them ring. It
almost drowned out the guy’s scream.

Swiftly, Kiernan ran after him. Blood oozed from the

wound on the man’s leg, but still he was trying to get back to
his feet and out the broken sliding door. Switching his grip,
Kiernan slammed the butt of the weapon down on the guy’s
head, knocking him out cold.

“Bloody scientist asshole,” he growled. He just resisted

the urge to kick the unconscious man. Instead, he headed
back around the table and spotted the wolves. Shit, which one
is Demitri? Then he realized his lover was the one with
silver-blond accents in his light colored fur—and wasn’t that
an odd thing to think? His mother was much darker.

He decided that just in time to see Demitri grapple his

mother to the ground. With his jaws wrapped around her
throat, Demitri growled low in his throat. It took Kiernan a
second to realize he was asking for Rachel’s submittal. At
first, she scrabbled underneath him, trying to get away, but
then she went limp.

Demitri growled in warning as he slowly released her

throat. As soon as the pressure was gone, she curled her legs
under her and leaped at Demitri. Evidently, he’d expected
the deceit, for he immediately skittered sideways. Rachel’s
momentum on the wood floor sent her sliding toward
Kiernan. Lifting his gun again, he slammed it down on the
wolf’s head. She slid to a stop, unconscious.

Kiernan immediately moved to Demitri’s side. He set the

gun on the floor, grabbed the wolf’s ruff in one hand, and
cupped his muzzle in the other. “Are you okay?”

Seconds later, his arms were full of naked male, hugging

him close. “I’m okay. Are you okay?”

Charlie Richards

108

“Fine,” Kiernan replied. Looking at the downed pair, he

grimaced at the blood still oozing from the fallen scientist.
“Guess I need to bandage that for him, but then what do we
do with them?”

“Take them to Declan’s,” Demitri replied immediately.
“Right. So much for breakfast,” Kiernan grumbled, but he

wasn’t too upset. Now that his lover’s mother and the final
would-be kidnapper had appeared, things would settle
down…he hoped.

“I didn’t know you had a gun,” Demitri commented from

where he helped Kiernan tie up their attackers.

Kiernan shrugged. “My father gave it to me when I was

twenty-five. He told me to consider it a coming out present.”
He shook his head as he remembered those lonely and
frustrating days. “I finally broke down and explained to him
why Maggie left me. He said I should always be prepared to
defend me and Valerie.”

“And you keep it loaded?”
Kiernan snickered at his lover’s dry tone. “I live alone.”

He frowned, “Or, at least, I do right now. I’m hoping that,
since you’re not at your parents anymore, I can convince you
to move in here.”

Demitri tied the last knot then wrapped his arms around

Kiernan’s neck. “Yes, please,” he whispered, before
capturing Kiernan’s mouth.

Kiernan let him lead for several seconds, relishing the

younger man’s enthusiasm. He ran his hands over his
lover’s body, reassuring himself that Demitri was unhurt.
Finally, Kiernan pulled away. “We need to get dressed, so
we can get over to your alpha’s.

Demitri nodded. “Maybe Lark will make us breakfast,” he

said absently as he scurried up the stairs.

Having no idea who Demitri spoke of, Kiernan just

followed him upstairs.

Freeing Demitri’s Wolf

109

Demitri called Declan, confirming that they’d be

expected. By the time they arrived, several other cars were
there, too. Declan introduced Kiernan to his mate, Lark, a
short, slender, blond human, who grinned happily and
congratulated them on their mating. That explains Demitri’s
breakfast comment. Lark seemed very happy to learn they’d
worked out their differences.

Next was the pack enforcer, Carson, who turned out to be

a good-looking Native American. He also met Carson’s
mate, Jared, who—although he smiled—seemed just a bit
too cheeky for Kiernan’s tastes. He met Shane, the pack beta,
plus Kade and Manon, a couple more enforcers. Kiernan
planned to ask Demitri later what an enforcer did.

By the time introductions were done, Kiernan’s head

swam with names and faces. He just knew there was no way
he’d remember everyone.

Several of the men took the scientist, whom Demitri called

Brett, and Rachel out of Kiernan’s truck. Fortunately, they
were both still unconscious. Lark, whom he learned was a
doctor, made quick work of cleaning and bandaging Brett’s
wound.

As they were putting the pair in the bed of Kade’s pickup,

a classic mustang rolled to a stop in front of the house.
Kiernan just held in a whistle at the pretty vehicle. From the
driver’s side hopped a sandy haired guy who shouted for
help while sprinting around the hood.

Declan and Demitri immediately hustled toward him and

Kiernan quickly followed. “What’s wrong, Nick?” Declan
demanded.

“Raven got the best of Miach,” Nick responded, pulling

open the car door.

“Oh, shit,” Demitri whispered.
“Who’s Raven?” Kiernan asked, even as he moved

Charlie Richards

110

around the door and helped Declan and Nick ease a nearly
unconscious Miach from the car. A bandage was wrapped
around the man’s ribcage and his left forearm.

Demitri shut the door, then hurried in front of them to get

the front door. Declan answered, “He’s one of the scientist’s
soldiers. They used shifter DNA to do something to him to
make him stronger, faster, with a few special quirks thrown
in.”

They maneuvered Miach upstairs, following Lark’s

instruction, and laid him on a bed. Once back in the hall,
Kiernan asked, “They work on their own people? I thought
they just experimented on shifters. Rachel said they were
going to make her normal…uh,” he flushed at Declan’s
scowl. He lifted his hands in apology. “That’s what she
said.”

Declan sighed. “I have a lot of shifters in me pack, but

when she started coming to fewer and fewer pack runs, I
should have gotten to the bottom of the problem.”
Grimacing, he explained, “The scientists will capture
shifters, experiment on them, then use their findings to try to
create super soldiers. Miach is one of them, but he defected.
Raven is another. We’ve been holding him for a number of
months, trying to convince him to do the same.” Declan
sighed. “We failed, and now that he’s loose again, everyone
will need to remain vigilant.”

Kiernan couldn’t help it. He growled in frustration.

“Looks like I’m gonna have to start packing again.” Demitri
wrapped his arm around his waist, giving him a side-hug.
For some reason, just that small affection calmed him.
Kiernan smiled at his lover.

Declan’s eyes narrowed. “If ye’re going to shoot a

paranormal, decide quickly whether ye’re going to
incapacitate or kill. Incapacitating will be harder, because it
will take several shots. Killing would be much easier. To do

Freeing Demitri’s Wolf

111

that, ye shoot ‘em in the head or heart.”

“Geez, I don’t want to kill anyone,” Kiernan admitted. “I

just want my mate safe. Now that his parents are caught, I
thought he would be, but it sounds like I’ve just walked into
the middle of a war.”

“Ye have,” Declan confirmed. “But it’s not a battle ye

have to fight alone.” To his surprise, Declan gripped his
shoulder and squeezed in a reassuring gesture. “Me
daughter, Sara, is cooking breakfast for everyone. Help
yerself.”

Kiernan nodded, then, arm still wrapped around Demitri,

turned toward the stairs.

“Hey,” Declan called softly. “Congratulations, and

welcome to the pack.” He smiled at the both, his gaze
warming slightly. “I am glad ye were able to patch things
up.”

Kiernan smiled. “Thank you.” He glanced at his lover and

added, “We both are, too.”

“Should I assume Demitri is staying with ye now?”

Declan asked candidly.

“Hell, yeah,” Kiernan replied quickly.
Declan chuckled softly, then glanced toward Miach’s

room and sighed. “Thanks for bringing Rachel and Brett to
us. I’ll take it from here.” He disappeared into Miach’s room.

Kiernan’s gaze snagged on the doorway. He could just see

Lark’s shoulder as he spoke with the other men in the room.
“Think he’ll be okay?”

Demitri nodded, then urged him down the hall. “Lark just

told Nick that the knife wound missed any vital organs.
With his accelerated healing, Miach didn’t lose as much
blood as a normal human would have, so he was in no
danger of bleeding out. Unfortunately, the second wound in
his forearm sliced a tendon, so there’ll be some rehabilitation
time. Poor guy.”

Charlie Richards

112

Kiernan nodded, allowing his lover to lead him back to

the first floor. “I’m gonna give Joe a call and let him know
I’m going to be late,” he said, grateful to be thinking of more
mundane things. “What time do you go in to work, today?”

“Ten-thirty,” Demitri replied. “Why?”
Pulling his lover into his arms, Kiernan pressed a soft kiss

to Demitri’s upturned lips. “Let’s swing by your old place,
maybe your buddy’s, too, and pick up anything you want,
then take it to my place. After I pick you up after work, we’ll
have a nice quiet dinner at home followed by some more
claiming.” He ended his request on a throaty growl, really
liking his plan.

Demitri’s mouth slowly turned up in a lascivious grin.

“Oh, I like the sound of that.”

“Good.”
They headed out of the house, Kiernan ready to put his

plan into action. He paused before opening the door for his
lover and pulled Demitri into his arms. As his sweet shifter
sank into his embrace and Kiernan devoured his mouth, he
knew whatever he had to do to make this work would be
worth it, because he had Demitri.

About the Author

Charlie lives on a mini ranchette in Utah with her husband
and furry, four-legged children. She started writing fantasy
when she was eight, and after stumbling onto her first erotic
romance at age nineteen, she realized her true calling. She
now focuses on writing erotic romance, normally of the
paranormal variety, with heroes and heroines of all kinds.
You can often find her curled up with her laptop and a cup
of tea or glass of wine, creating her next adventure. Charlie
enjoys exploring the mountains on horseback, 4-wheeler, or
motorcycle. Her favorite exercise is jumping lessons with her
Arabian gelding Apache or her Thoroughbred mare Repo.
And she can’t get enough of sexy highlanders with their kilts
and swords. Right now, she and her muse are working with
dedication on her Wolves of Stone Ridge series and Kontra’s
Menagerie series.

She can be reached at ch.richards2010@yahoo.com
Or visit her at www.charlie-richards.com