Realm Queens

Realm Queens

F East, Beth A. Freely, R Knight, Rae Knight, Kaytie Marie, Birdy Rivers, Sionna Trenz

This anthology is a work of fiction. Names, characters, organizations, places, events, and incidences are either products of the author's imagination or used fictitiously.

Copyright ©2024 by Wycked Minds Publishing, F East, Beth A. Freely, R Knight, Rae Knight, Kaytie Marie, Birdy Rivers, and Sionna Trenz. All rights reserved.

No part of this book may be reproduced, or stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without the express written permission of the publisher.

Table of Contents

Realm Queens Title Page

Anthology Copyright

When She Rides by F. East

Blurb

Prologue

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Epilogue

Other Books

About the Author

Kiss of the Crimson Valkyrie by Beth A. Freely

Chapter 1

Willcox, AZ

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Pre-Orders

Love For you: Texas Heat

Best For You: Texas Heat

Hot Temptation: Temptation Island

Hooked On Victor: Hooked Series

About The Author

Logo

Rebel Hellions MC: Daughters of Hell Red by R. Knight

Story Copyright

Dedication

Content & Trigger Warning

Daughters of Hell Member List

Song Inspiration

Synopsis

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Author's Note

Acknowledgments

Other Works

About the Author

At Fanging Last

Chapter 1

Raven

Chapter 2

Knox

Chapter 3

Raven

Chapter 4

Knox

Chapter 5

Raven

Chapter 6

Knox

Chapter 7

Raven

Chapter 8

Knox

Chapter 9

Raven

Other Books

About the Author

Amora's Love by Kaytie Marie

Dedication

Content Warning

Amora

Ramisis

Amora

Rami

The End

Also by Kaytie

About the Author

The Salty Selkie and

the Scorned Sailor

Birdy Rivers

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Kieran

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Epilogue

Other Books

About the Author

Incendiary

Trigger Warning

Chapter 1

Genny

Chapter 2

Cole

Chapter 3

Genny

Chapter 4

Cole

Chapter 5

Genny

Chapter 6

Cole

Chapter 7

Genny

Chapter 8

Cole

Chapter 9

Genny

Chapter 10

Cole

Chapter 11

Cole

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Genny

Genny

Chapter 13

Genny

Chapter 14

Cole

Chapter 15

Cole

Other Works

About the Author

Thank You

When She Rides 

F. East

Blurb

Cats vs Dogs is a cliché as old as time. Only, what’s to happen when these very different species are also members of rival motorcycle gangs? 

Join Nick and Alex, two very different wrench monkeys as they navigate the perils of relationships and riding on the open road. 

Trigger Warning: This story is rated for mature audiences only (18+) due to on-screen violence, kidnapping, drug use, language, and sexually explicit acts. 

Prologue

Logan

Oh yes, just like that. The moans of the woman under me are just as fake as her tits, but that doesn’t stop me from fucking her like I’ll never see her again. Which is exactly the case. I’ve never slept with any groupie more than once and I don’t plan to. Some have tried, but I remember faces very well, so none will ever succeed. My Alexandra is the only one who gets the honor of being fucked more than once. Of course, you can’t call her Alexandra to her face. It’s Alex unless you want a fight. If only my bandmates, Byron and Declan, understood my insistence on maintaining a relationship with my hot-tempered leopard. And she is mine. Tooth, claw, and all. No one else knows the thrill of turning her into a sobbing mess, making her beg for my cock. 

Cum on my ass, the woman in front of Declan cries as he fucks her from behind like the bitch she is. At least her tits are real and actually move as he drives his dick into her. 

The door to the motel room bursts open, framing a very shocked Alex. With the rising sun behind her, she looks like a majestic warrior queen in riding gear. I didn’t believe it when they said you were fucking groupies. 

Get over it, Declan sneers, not even bothering to stop the thrusting of his hips. 

Babe, let me explain, I say frantically as I push away from the nameless blonde who’s rolling her eyes at Alex for daring to interrupt. I pull on a pair of pants, not bothering to remove the condom as I do. Maybe I’ll be able to keep using it after I calm Alex down. If I can calm her down. She looks pretty pissed. This could take a while, and that woman may leave in the meantime. Maybe I can talk Alex into picking up where whatever-her-name-is left off… 

Byron comes out of the bathroom and scoffs when he sees Alex in front of the open door. This is par for the course, babe. You just need to suck it up and deal. Alex doesn’t react to Byron’s taunt of calling her by the same pet name that I do. 

Is this the first time you cheated on me? she asks, ignoring my bandmates.

It’s not cheating, babe. They don’t mean anything to me and I don’t see them again after I fuck them just the once, I explain while giving her my sweetest smile. Alex loves my smile. She said so. 

Unlike normal, Alex doesn’t succumb to my charms. Instead, she scowls and waves her hand as if dismissing the scene before her. I can’t believe this shit. She turns on her heel to leave, and I have to run after her, barely catching her before she makes it to her bike. 

I told you, it’s not cheating! 

So, you’re saying I can go and screw anyone I want as long as it’s a stranger and a one-night… 

How dare Alex even suggest sleeping with someone else when she has me! It doesn’t click that I slapped her until after the fact. She slowly turns her head back to face me, her eyes glowing yellow. I’m a dead man. Her eyes only do that when she’s ready to rip someone's throat out. 

Shit, babe. I didn’t mean… My apology is cut short by a woman’s roar. There’s only one person on this planet who’s loud enough to be heard over a motorcycle: Alex’s half-sister, Sonya. 

The lioness leaps off the still-moving motorcycle, letting it crash into the wall of the motel as she tackles me to the ground. The club’s vice-president and Sonya’s best friend isn’t far behind. You no-good, rotten rat bastard of a mother fucker! What in the ever-living hell made you think you had the right to raise your worthless hand to my sister? 

Tati, let me go! I’ll rip his throat out! Alex yells, struggling to get out of the other woman’s hold. That dumb mother fucker thinks he has the balls to slap me and get away with it? Let me go! I need to kill him! 

White-hot pain radiates up my right wrist, pulling my attention away from the panther as she struggles to keep Alex from entering the fray. 

Byron launches himself at Sonya only to find himself doubled over as Sonya punches him hard enough to hear his ribs crack. At least she didn’t break his wrist, so he can still play the bass when we go on tour. Declan, like Byron, is equally unwise. The drummer leaps at Sonya while Byron wheezes on the ground, only to wind up cradling his face in his hands. That broken nose is going to look awful as it heals. Thankfully we tigers heal quickly, so this won’t be too bad for too long. 

Let’s go, Sonya snaps, leading her sister to her bike. 

What about your bike? Alex asks, motioning towards what is pretty much nothing more than a steaming pile of scrap metal since it lost the fight with the brick motel wall. At least having me on the ground has cooled her anger enough that she’s no longer wanting to kill me. Alex will beat her victims until they’re unconscious, while Sonya stops when they quit attacking. 

I’ll have it picked up and brought back to the shop. I’ll ride with you, Sonya answers, making Alex groan. 

You just want to make sure I don’t grind that jackass’ face into the sidewalk, Alex huffs as she allows her sister to guide her to the waiting motorcycle. 

Save your knuckles for someone who deserves it, Sonya laughs, getting on Alex’s bike, forcing her sister to ‘ride bitch’. 

Some badass you are, Declan’s piece of ass sneers, nudging the fallen man with her toe. 

Byron grunts in pain as his woman helps him to his feet. Like you could have done any better against her. 

My blonde shrugs her shoulders. Oh well. It’s been… no, I take that back. It was not fun at all. Anyway, good luck on your tour, boys. I’m out of here. She gets into a car that just pulled into the parking lot and waves bye as it takes off. The other two get into their car and leave as well. 

Are you finally ready to wash your hands of that cunt? Declan huffs, his voice sounding stuffy compliments of his broken nose. 

Don’t call her that, I defend out of reflex. Yeah, whatever. To hell with her. I’ll find someone better. Just you wait and see.  

Chapter 1

Alex

She’s doing it again 

And? 

You should stop her. 

No way. I like having my head exactly where it’s at… still attached to my neck. 

Some badass you are. 

Like you’re one to talk. 

Theo and Percy shut their yaps and quickly try to pretend they weren’t just arguing when I throw a wrench across the shop, the metal clanging loudly on the concrete floor.

You know, I might have better luck fixing the Prez’s bike if you two fuckwits would quit barking like a pair of hyper hyenas, I growl at the twins. How in the hell those two became part of the Wild Cats is anybody’s guess. I have to remind myself that my sister always knows what she’s doing. This is probably no different even if everyone is questioning her judgment. Mine too since I turned down the position of Enforcer so that I could keep the club’s bikes purring like a happy kitty. That’s okay. I’ll whoop these kittens a time or two and show them what’s required of an Enforcer. Not that they’ll get the official title. 

Theo gulps. Sorry, Alex. We were just worried because… He elbows his twin, hoping Percy will miraculously have the balls to state the obvious.

Because I’ve gotten worked up enough for my leopard’s spots to show, I supply since it seems that our resident blunder brothers can’t. Flopping down onto the grease-covered concrete, I stare up at the flickering fluorescent light and try to pull my head out of my ass. At least, that’s what I’m telling myself. There’s no way in hell I’m about to admit that I’m heartbroken, ashamed, and happy all at the same time because Sonya rode to my rescue. Hence the reason her bike is currently trashed. While I’m glad Sonya loves me enough to have my back even though I fell for Mr. Wrong, I’m kicking myself for making excuses for all the red flags. 

Theo glances towards the suspiciously quiet office where Sonya, our club Prez, is meeting with the Fallen Falcons. While not exactly a rival club, they were stupid enough to step foot on her turf. If there’s one lesson in life that everyone should know, it’s that you don’t encroach on a lion’s territory unless you’re ready to fight for your life. 

Should we be worried? Percy asks nervously, looking to me for guidance. 

For her? No. For them? Yes. She’s more than capable of ripping out a throat or two if the need arises. Grinning as I lean up on my elbows, I add, Relax. She’ll call you if she needs help toying with her prey. 

Theo pouts and slumps on the old, worn-out leather couch in the corner of the garage. Just doesn’t seem fair that we’re enforcers who don’t enforce anything. He looks at me, his eyes wide in worry. I mean, not that we actually have that title or anything. 

That’s right. You’ll have to remove your dangly bits if you want that honor, Sonya says drolly as she comes into the shop. She glances at where I’m sprawled out on the floor before turning her attention back to the twins. Care to elaborate? 

It’s just that you’re so powerful, so we feel… well, useless, Percy explains while Theo nods. 

Then you don’t want the job of running off a bunch of rabid mongrels from the Eastern Quarter? Sonya asks coyly. 

The twins jump to their feet. No way! We’ll do it! they reply in sync. That pack of coyotes has been stirring up trouble for a while now, but Sonya’s been holding off on doing anything since they’re basically nothing more than a bunch of rowdy kids. It would be a different story if they’d been members of the Stray Dogs, but we make a point to avoid each other at all costs. Hell, I don’t even know what their officers look like. 

Sonya nods her head towards the back of the shop that serves as our meeting house. There’s more than we thought, so grab Tati. Let the mutts live if they run off with their tail between their legs. Otherwise… 

Kibble! Percy whoops, trotting off towards the meeting house, Theo hot on his heels. 

Sonya shakes her head at them before sighing heavily at me. So, what’s the verdict, doc? 

Oh, please. This is me we’re talking about. I roll my eyes at my sister, jealous as fuck that she inherited her mother’s statuesque lioness. At least I got my mother’s brown hair and not our father’s mottled blonde. The mere fact I inherited my leopard from that selfish, alcoholic bastard… Shaking my head to clear it of all the negative thoughts, I tell her. I’ll have it fixed. Just give me half a beat to screw my head on straight. 

Anyone else would get their ass kicked for that answer, Sonya states, crossing her arms over her ample chest. Sonya’s number one rule is that every Wild Cat is expected to perform their duties, personal bullshit be damned. 

Grinning from my prone position on the floor, I quip, Well, good thing for my ass that I’m not anyone else. Turning my head towards the bike, I do another mental inventory of what needs to be replaced from Sonya’s run-in with that seedy motel The Tigers were using as their fuck pad. The motor isn’t cracked, so provided Shady has a new tank, I can have her back to peak performance by tomorrow night at the latest. I’m guessing you don’t want her painted? 

You know I like my franken-bikes. 

Just because you keep wrecking them. I hold up my hands in surrender when she glares at me. Seriously, Sonya. Thank you for having my back today. 

Will you listen when I say a guy’s bad news now? she huffs. 

Probably not. I get off the floor and pretend to dust myself off, when in reality, I’m just adding to the amount of grease on my jeans. Desperate to change the subject away from my epic fuck-up, I ask, So, I’m curious about the meeting. Why no squawks of pain? Wait, did you finally soundproof your office? Thank fuck! We were getting pretty tired of hearing your screaming orgasms. Though, that doesn’t explain why you sent the blunder brothers after those pups when you were meeting with the Falcons. 

Sonya’s angry growl of annoyance has made many big, strong shifters piss themselves, but I hold my ground. No matter how angry she gets, she’d never truly hurt me, and we both know it. These asswipes are trying to break off from their club. Tried to say they didn’t know the turf was mine, blah, blah, blah. Let’s just say that they quickly saw the error of their ways when I lifted their Prez off the ground by his throat for daring to talk down to me. I thought eagles were supposed to be smart or some shit, but he was just a bird brain. Either way, this new club is named Devil’s Eagles, and they are having trouble with those dogs as well. I’m using this as an opportunity to put a muzzle on those bitches. What better way to show who’s the mother fucking queen around here? 

Speaking of learning the error of one’s ways, I will be heading to Halsey’s Hangout after I hit up Shady’s. I quickly dodge Sonya’s punch that would have landed squarely on my jaw had I not moved. I’m only going to drink. I swear! 

Woman, if you dare hook up with some random piece of ass, I swear I’ll kill you for real. 

Oh please. Even I’m not stupid enough to jump into another bed this soon. 

Sonya wraps her arm around my neck, pinning me in a loose headlock. Good. Because until you fix my bike, my ability to ride to your rescue is limited. 

No more random hookups, and if I should make the mistake of catching feelings, I’ll come to you so you can either approve or slap some sense into me. 

Sonya looks at me like I’m full of shit since this isn’t the first time I’ve said something similar. Little does she know that I mean it. Logan’s betrayal hurt me in ways I can’t even begin to describe which means it’ll be a cold day in hell before I’ll let anyone get that close. 

Chapter 2

Nick 

Come on, Shady. Work with me, a woman tries to cajole. Too bad she doesn’t realize that Shady is not one to do anything unless it lines his pockets. Hell, hiring me was a calculated move. 

You keep taking and destroying my inventory, Shady snarks back. 

I’m not trashing them! She huffs out an annoyed sigh. Okay. Fine. I still have all the old fenders, tanks, and even a couple of forks that can probably be beat back into usability. Let me get a tank just this once and I’ll work with someone on getting those repaired so that I don’t keep using your precious inventory. 

Fine, but you have to use my guy for the repairs. 

Shady… the woman growls before finally clearing her throat. Nevermind. So, who’s this guy I have to use? He better not be some hack that is going to shred my bikes. 

Unlike some, he listens well. He’s a good boy. He chuckles gleefully before yelling, Nick! Come out here and meet the biggest pain in my ass! my new boss calls, pulling me from doing inventory in the back room. If you can call trying to organize that disaster by such a simple term. 

You and I have completely different definitions of boy, she mutters with a flinch when I step out of the back room, and I look at Shady in question. My face isn’t one that normally makes the villagers break out with their pitchforks, so I have no idea why someone willing to chew Shady’s ass would be scared of me. 

Boy! What in the hell have you been getting into? You look like you’re covered in blood! Shady yells while tossing a well-used rag in my direction. Ah. That’s why. 

The brunette sniffs the air. Transmission fluid, motor oil, and even a bit of gasoline. You shake a whole bike out on yourself? 

Shyly returning her smile, I ask, Would it help my image if it wasn’t at once or on purpose? Shrugging, I explain, I didn’t realize some of the parts still had their fluids when I moved them. 

She squints at me and snickers. Sorry. I was just imagining you picking up a bike and literally shaking it out over yourself, angry gorilla-style. 

Shady shakes his head. Jerking his thumb towards the woman, he informs me, Meet Alex. The reason my stockroom looks the way it does. 

Oh, please, Alex groans. It is not my fault you refuse to organize jack shit. I even offered to help, but you didn’t want to give me a discount in exchange… Alex turns to me, planting her fists on her hips. He better be paying you a fair wage. Alex holds up a finger, shushing Shady as he opens his mouth to defend himself. He clamps his mouth shut and I blink in surprise. I had no clue anyone could do that to the weasel.

Don’t worry. Boss pays me. Obviously, I don’t tell her it’s barely anything because he’s also providing room and board. Then again, if one does the math, it’s actually not too bad of a deal. I have enough to eat and can even work towards buying parts for my latest project. If I wanted to, that is. The reasons that landed me with Shady to begin with have soured my desire to start anything new. 

You any good at body work? 

I can reshape any gas tank to fit any frame and guarantee it won’t leak when I’m done. If she has half a clue what that means, she’ll know exactly how skilled I am. 

She blinks at me a few times as if she can’t believe what she just heard. No shit? 

No shit, Shady answers before I can. This kid’s so good that I’ll even guarantee his work. If any tank of his fails, I’ll replace it with a brand new one. For free. Obviously, that doesn’t include rider error, like wrecks. 

Alex whistles under her breath. Now that is one hell of an endorsement. She puts her hand beside her mouth and mock whispers, How’d you bribe him to say that? 

No bribe. I’m just that good, I brag, puffing my chest out in pride. At least until she laughs like I’m strutting peacock, dealing a critical blow. Changing the subject so that I can spare my ego any additional bruising, I ask, So, what are you needing? 

I’m the mechanic for the Wild Cats, and… let’s just say we have a reputation for crashing our bikes. Alex cuts her eyes at Shady as if daring him to contradict what she said. I have quite the collection of tanks and fenders but zero ability to get them back the way they’re supposed to be. My feeble attempts have just made them worse. 

Shady steps forward before I can ask for more details. "He’s still mine. You’re only allowed to use him when he doesn’t have anything better to do. 

Alex’s deep brown eyes flash yellow for a brief moment. He’s not some coffee cup for you to claim possession of. He’s a human being. But I understand that his job with you comes first. Turning to me, she asks, How do you want to go about getting the parts to you? 

My shift is done for the day, right? I ask Shady so that I can make the correct plans with Alex. 

Yeah, you can call it quits. You’ve done good today, Shady says, waving me off. 

Chapter 3

Alex 

You’re right. You didn’t bribe him. You’ve switched him out with an entirely new personality. There’s no way this is the OG weasel we all love to despise, I quip, waving my hand in Shady’s general direction. 

Both Shady and I narrow our eyes at each other while Nick laughs. What can I say? People just like me. 

You’re nothing but a damned labrador, I grumble under my breath, and, just like that wolf in the fairy tale that ‘hears you better’, Nick doesn’t miss my words. I’m not sure if I should be thankful or peeved when he grins at me. 

Why don’t I follow you to… I assume you have a shop since you’re a mechanic? He waits until I nod before continuing, I’ll follow you to your shop and look at what you’ve got. There’s no point in bringing the parts to me if they’re not salvageable. 

Makes sense, I reply even though I was going to bring him the least damaged parts first. I can scrap whatever isn’t worth keeping. 

You better wash if you’re going to be in public, Shady admonishes, shooing Nick away like a child. After the man disappears behind the curtain, Shady comes back to me. So, one tank. Anything else? 

Can you deliver? I tease cheekily knowing he’s never delivered a single part since the day he opened the store’s doors. Kidding! I’ll have one of the twins come get it. 

Make it quick. I want to close early, Shady grumbles, holding his hand out for the cash, another one of his hard and fast rules, no doubt so he can avoid paying taxes. 

Must be one hot date, I tease, handing over the payment. Shady’s cheeks pinken slightly, telling me I’m closer to the truth than he wants to admit. This is definitely a day of firsts. We’re completing the transaction when Nick comes in from the back room, his hair dripping and smelling of industrial cleaner. 

Boy! Did you use the power washer on yourself? 

Rather than deny it, Nick shrugs a shoulder. Better to lose a few layers of skin than keep a lady waiting. 

Shady rolls his eyes and practically shoves the both of us outside, flipping the sign to ‘Closed’ and locking the door behind us. 

Nick and I share an amused look at Shady’s impatience. Am I going to have trouble with you? 

Not with me. He points at the rain clouds that are quickly moving closer. The weather, on the other hand. 

You say one word about cats hating water and I’ll talk about how you smell bad. Sniffing the air near him, I add, Though, the fake orange in the cleaner you used does a decent job of disguising the odor of wet dander. 

Rather than get offended at my snide remarks, Nick chuckles. How about we say that bikes don’t handle like a car when they hit a puddle. 

Fine, I huff. You ever been to Halsey’s? Figure it’s as good a place as any to wait out the storm. It’s on the way, and I don’t think we’ll make it all the way to the shop before that shit hits. 

Nick shakes his head. Heard it’s a rough place, but never been. 

It’s not… I stop as I recall the arguments and all-out brawls that happen at Halsey’s. Most of the regulars don’t care unless it gets bad enough the cops have to be called. I’ll protect you. 

I can hold my own even if I prefer not to. 

Huh. Once again, Nick doesn’t get upset at my jab, even though most guys hate it when you call their ability to ‘be a man’ into question. 

We’ll wait there until the rain ends and then head to the Cat’s shop. 

Nick fishes a set of keys out of his pocket and heads towards an ancient pickup that’s more rust than paint. I wait, fully expecting him to have to fiddle with the engine, but it roars to life without any issues. Shaking my head when the monstrosity reminds me of Sonya’s franken-bikes, I start my own ride, leaning over the tank as I head towards my favorite watering hole. I at least remember to not race along the curvy roads between Shady’s and Halsey’s since Nick’s following and I’d hate to see him roll the top-heavy vehicle in an attempt to keep up with me. 

As I pull into the parking lot, there’s a part of me that freaks out, thinking Logan and his band will be there, but then I remember The Tigers left for their big tour right after the blow out with Sonya. That means I won’t have to listen to Logan try to defend his wandering dick for at least a year. I still can’t believe that asswipe and his bandmates tried to say that fucking groupies wasn’t cheating and that I was expected to deal with it. It’s even worse that Logan slapped me for smarting off about doing the exact same thing. He really should be thankful that Sonya just happened to be riding by that sleazy motel at that exact moment. She just kicked his ass. I would have punched him in the throat hard enough that he wouldn’t be able to talk, much less sing, ever again. That and shattered the hands of their drummer and bass player. Yeah, The Tigers’ future success is all thanks to Sonya. 

But, not to worry. He is long gone. 

Chapter 4

Nick 

We get to Halsey’s and I park on the far side of the lot since I’m driving one of the three non-motorcycles and figure they should be able to park together. I silently follow Alex to the door where the bear dips his chin in greeting. She in turn leans up and kisses his scarred cheek. Hey, Harley. How are the twins? 

Kolton took his first steps yesterday. Karsen won’t be far behind, I’m sure, he grins, pride making his face practically glow. He lifts his head and eyes me suspiciously. 

Meet Nick, Alex says, pulling me forward. He’s Shady’s newest hire. He’s killing time with me before picking up all the parts Sonya’s piled up. Guess he’s a good enough friend to get the full story rather than just a brief introduction. 

We all look up when lightning strikes in the distance. The bouncer shudders at the subsequent roll of thunder. Yeah. Good idea. Even though it won’t last long, it’s going to be a bad one. 

Thanks, she says as he opens the door for us. 

While loud, Halsey’s is nothing like I expected. It’s set up more like a brightly lit, retro diner than a cliché biker bar. It isn’t until Alex and I sit at an empty high-top that I realize the metal table and chairs are reinforced. 

You want to pull them apart, don’t you? Alex chuckles which makes me realize I was ignoring her to inspect the construction of the tables and chairs. 

My cheeks heat. Sorry. Bad habit. 

Don’t tell me you’re a closeted construction nerd. 

It’s not really all that hidden, I chuckle, feeling comfortable enough to joke. 

A waitress brings over two beers and slams them down in front of us, the foam spilling over the rim. Your sister says this is all you’re allowed. She scowls at me. Who’s this? 

You can report back that this is Nick, Shady’s one and only employee. We’re waiting for the storm to blow over before heading back to the garage. I will even be introducing him to Sonya. There’s nothing fishy here. Her tone is polite yet exasperated as she once again over-explains who I am and why we’re together. The waitress scowls at both of us but leaves to assist other customers, her face morphing into a bright smile as she goes. 

Uh? I hesitate, not quite sure how to ask what’s going on. Is there some issue with a member of the Wild Cats associating with a wolf? There’s no way it’s because they know who I am or where I came from. I left that life far behind. 

Alex rolls her eyes. Bad breakup combined with an overprotective sister. Everyone here is basically her spy. I should have known it would be this bad and gone straight to the garage, rain be damned. 

I’m fine with being here. Want to talk about it? 

The breakup or the sister? 

Either one. Or we can talk about something else entirely, if you prefer. While I am somewhat curious, I’ve learned to not stick my nose where it’s not welcome, no matter how enticing the scent. 

The corner of Alex’s mouth kicks up. How about that truck of yours? 

Looks are deceiving, aren’t they? I chuckle. Leaning over, I pretend I’m sharing a big secret. It makes for its own anti-theft device. 

What are we talking about over here? some guy says, sticking his head between ours and wrapping his arms around our shoulders. 

We’re talking about how nobody wants his rust bucket of a truck, Alex answers honestly while shrugging off this man’s touch. 

Wait. That heap in the parking lot is yours? he gasps. Wrinkling his nose in apology, he adds, Sorry. It’s just that it sticks out quite a bit. He holds out his hand and smiles broadly. Name’s Malcolm. 

Nick, I reply, returning both the handshake and the grin. His friendly attitude no doubt draws many to his side. 

Malcolm jerks his thumb at Alex. Be careful with this one. She’s a… Whatever he was going to call her ends up being an ‘oof’, compliments of Alex’s swift jab to the kidney. 

Knock it off, she growls. 

And if I don’t? Malcolm retorts even though he’s trying to hide his wince from where she hit him. Guess she’s not the type to pull her punches. 

I’ll tell Sonya that you’re being a prick. 

Malcolm jumps behind me and cowers like I’m going to protect him. See? She’s pure evil! 

Only to those who deserve it. Alex picks up her mug of beer and uses it to motion towards Malcolm. So, that clown of a fox is sweet on my sister and thinks that if I put in a good word that she’ll magically fall in love with his fluffy tail. 

Malcolm sighs dramatically, propping his chin on my shoulder. If only I had nine tails. Then, I’d be able to use the powers of a deity to charm her. He perks up, moving back to my side. Hey, when are The Tigers coming back? I know they’re making it big and all, but they promised to keep playing here to remember their roots. I kinda figured they’d play here before starting their big tour. 

Alex’s face darkens. You must not have heard. Logan and I are done. I caught that mangy bastard balls deep in some floozy. Alex shrugs as she continues her story. He better be glad Sonya and Tati were riding by the hotel at that exact moment since my sweet sister only broke Logan’s hand because his dumb ass dared to slap me. All three of them should thank their lucky stars that Tati was able to hold me back. There’s still a part of me that wants to put all three into the coma-ward. 

Sounds like you finally caught him. 

Alex jerks in surprise before deflating entirely. Of course. Everyone knew. Everyone but poor, dumb Alex. 

Malcolm wraps his arms around her shoulders and pats her head. Don’t beat yourself up for seeing the best… 

Do I need to bruise your other kidney? she snaps, interrupting whatever he was going to call this Logan bastard. While I don’t have a clue who this guy is, any man who cheats on his woman is scum in my book.

Malcolm quickly releases her and takes a step back, his hands held up in surrender. Anyway, give Sonya my love. I’m off to make my rounds. 

Is the rain gone yet? she asks with a bitter, regretful smile. As if on cue, a loud clap of thunder sounds overhead and the lights flicker. 

If you want, you can ride with me. I have to pass by this way on my way back to Shady’s, so it won’t be a big deal to come back for your bike. 

She chugs the last of her beer and wipes her mouth with the back of her hand. Sure. Let’s go. 

Chapter 5

Alex 

Honey, I’m home! I bellow as Nick and I walk through the shop door, knowing my sister will not only hear me, but smell Nick and come running. Oh good. Your tank’s here, I say as Sonya saunters into the shop, eyeing Nick warily.

Sonya, Nick. Nick, my sister and president of the Wild Cats, Sonya, I say, quickly introducing the two. Your minions at Halsey’s are going to report that I left with Nick, but that’s only because I needed to get out of there. I seriously have no idea what I was thinking. Oh, and before I forget, Malcolm is still desperate for you to strip him down and do naughty, naughty things to his nether regions. Taking a deep breath, I continue my verbal diarrhea in the hopes that it keeps not only my ass out of the fire, but Nick’s as well. Nick is here to get the trashed tanks and fenders since Shady has said this tank’s the last one he’ll sell me. Nick’s going to refurb… 

What are you after by being here, mutt? Sonya snarls, completely ignoring what I was saying. 

I’m only here to pick up some parts, Nick says, holding up his hands as if to show he has nothing to hide. 

I’m keeping my eye on you, she growls. 

Nick dips his head. I understand. 

My sister gets a look that demands an explanation for the hostility, but none is forthcoming. Figuring I made a bad enough impression at Halsey’s and not wanting to make it worse by arguing with Sonya, I motion for Nick to follow me to the back of the shop where all the busted parts are piled. Sonya silently follows behind us, and I almost smart off about not needing a chaperone but quickly think better of it. Not only does Sonya have an instinctive feel for people, I have yet to prove I’ve truly learned the error of my ways. Not to mention she’s throwing out some serious ‘hunter’ vibes. 

Nick completely ignores the fact he’s being stalked like prey and starts picking through the tanks and fenders, making two piles. 

How do you determine what’s worth keeping and what’s not? I ask since I can’t tell any difference between the two piles. 

Nick jumps like I just zapped his ass with a cattle prod. Sorry. Actually, it’s all salvageable at this point. I was sorting by bike size. He points at the first pile. That’s all for five hundred while the other is for over. 

Ah. That explains why the ‘over’ pile is so much larger. Sonya’s bike is a 750cc while Tatianna’s and mine are both 500cc. We three wreck the most often, but Sonya is by far the roughest on her ride. Then again, the twins may start trashing their bikes to feel like they’re fitting in. Only time will tell.

What do you need first? he asks, and I point to the over pile.

Sonya gets first dibs on parts and tanks are most important. I turn to address my sister, Unless you have any objections? 

Sonya stops leaning against the wall and bangs on a pipe, the reverberations signaling that she wants the twins. Theo and Percy will help load the parts. I need Alex to come with me. 

Nick nods as he tilts his head at the pile of parts, finally picking a tank from the mix. This should only take a few days for me to fix up. Do you want it painted? 

Sonya smirks as she loops her arm through mine. Surprise me. Nodding her head towards Nick, she tells the twins, Help him load those parts and don’t add any more dents. She cuts her eyes at Nick. Until I say otherwise, he’s welcome to drop off or pick up parts. 

I can only wave bye to Nick as Sonya drags me away. Not that I really need to do more than that. 

How do you know him? Do you know who he is? Sonya snaps once we’re in her office. 

I told you. Nick works for Shady. Shady was… well… being Shady when I went to get a new tank. Basically, he refuses to sell me any more body parts because we go through too many. Anyhow, Nick is somehow the one person on the planet that’s in Shady’s good graces because Shady said he’d sell me a tank today but only if I let Nick do the body work on all trashed parts in the future. So, unless we want to start buying parts from the dealership, this is the deal. We stopped at Halsey’s on the way to wait out the storm but, because it was embarrassing as fuck-all, we left together in his truck. My head hangs as I realize I was supposed to ride back with him to get my bike. My bike is still at Halsey’s. 

Sonya waves off my worry. Tati can take you to get it as soon as the storm passes. Squinting at me, she asks, You really don’t know who he is? 

Again, I met him for the first time this afternoon. He’s a wolf with the ‘please pet me and tell me I’m a good boy’ attitude of a golden retriever. On the drive here, we talked about motorcycle repair. He gave me the name of some sites that have quick delivery, so we don’t have to pay the high dealership prices for stuff Shady doesn’t sell. Why the third degree? Is he the prince of a foreign country or some shit? 

Sonya blinks at me like I’ve truly gone off the deep end. Is… he… 

I mean, it would explain why Shady was kissing his ass, but I don’t really see royalty geeking out over body work the way he does. 

Sonya shakes her head. Nevermind. It’s nothing. 

I promise, I’m not interested in getting even a little naked or sweaty with him. I only enjoy talking about parts and pistons with another gear head. Please, have some faith in your little sister. 

Parts and pistons? Sonya asks with a raised eyebrow. At least she’s relaxed enough to take a seat at her desk. 

Sorry. Should we have talked about how I want to get my legs waxed to save time on shaving? I’m sure he’d have found that conversation positively riveting. 

Chapter 6

Nick

Alex chuckles and props her chin on her hand. Are you ready to kick us to the curb now that you’ve been fixing our parts for the better part of a month now? 

When Shady told me how many parts you go through, I thought he was exaggerating. 

Shady. Me. The twins. Hell, even Sonya questioned your sanity for saying you could handle the load by yourself. She grins and leans close. So? Are you regretting it? 

No. Even though I’m busier than expected, I’m glad to be out of my own head. 

Alex nods in understanding. I totally get that. I will suggest not saying that to the twins. They may once again let some wild hair give them moronic ideas. 

Groaning, I shake my head. I know they’re young, but to think that they’d purposely try wrecking the way Sonya does as she enters a fight. 

Don’t worry. Sonya kicked some sense into their asses. Stopping, Alex stands on the rungs of her barstool. Holy shit! she whoops, pointing towards the door where Sonya and Malcolm are walking in, hand in hand. Sonya flips off the entire group with her free hand before grinning at Malcolm and kissing the back of his hand. Looks like they’ve finally made it official. 

If your sister’s glare is any indication, your ass may be next, I tease even though Sonya’s love for her sister knows no bounds. Though, after watching you two train the twins, I don’t think that either of you are to be messed with. An instinctive shiver of fear runs down my spine as I recall the sisters teaching the twins how to fight. Those sisters can not only easily hold their own, they are downright vicious as they do. 

Sonya, Tati, and I could easily whoop whatever ass calls for it. But we all know that I’d much rather be a lover than a fighter. 

Wanna play Never Have I Ever? Malcolm asks with a sly grin as he and Sonya get to our table. 

Both Sonya and Alex groan. Alex points an accusing finger at the fox. You just want to see me completely shit-faced with Sonya not far behind. 

My shoulders lift in a shrug when everyone looks at me. I’m a shy, boring, saintly man who rarely leaves Shady’s. I’ll be sober when you are all blackout drunk. Sonya scowls at me while Alex rubs her hands together like some cartoon super-villain. 

Today’s goal, unlock the pretty-puppy’s sordid past, Malcolm laughs. 

Aww. You think I’m pretty? I add to the joke by putting my hand against my cheek and rapidly blinking my eyes at the other man. Turning to Alex, I ask, How about you? Do you think I’m pretty? 

Alex tilts her head as she pretends to seriously consider the question. I bet you’d rock a sparkly bow. 

Sonya, who’s surprisingly warming up to me, nods in agreement while motioning for someone to come to our table. Bottle of Jack and glasses. The young woman nods and weaves her way through the patrons, quickly bringing back the requested items. 

Malcolm cracks open the bottle and pours the amber liquid into each of our glasses. I’ll start. Never have I ever… gone streaking. 

Sonya groans and throws back her drink. My turn. Never have I ever… had sex on the beach. 

Wait, Alex interrupts, holding up a finger. Are we talking about the drink, or actual sex on an actual beach? 

Sonya snorts. Either way, you’re drinking. For others, intercourse that puts sand in very uncomfortable places. 

Alex’s shoulder slump as she throws back her shot with Malcolm and I both following suit. Oh ho! Alex teases. Guess our resident innocent isn’t so pure after all. 

Horny teenagers do things they probably shouldn’t, I retort with a slight shrug. I tilt my head as I think of something I’ve never done. Never have I ever spent the night in a hospital. 

Malcolm sighs and throws back his shot, muttering, Damned appendicitis. 

Never have I ever gotten a lap dance, Alex says for her turn. 

You most certainly have to, Malcolm argues. I was there when that rabbit was trying to interest you. 

Alex grins and shakes her head. Nope. He wasn’t a stripper and he just dry humped my leg, which is far from a dance. Does not count. 

We do quite a few rounds, asking the typical questions like ‘having a threesome’, ‘made the walk of shame’, and ‘been arrested’ before Malcolm stares at me with a pout. 

Come on, ask already, Alex slurs, having had the most shots. 

I’m getting there. I need to think of something to make the pretty boy here take a shot, he whines. I got it. Never have I ever gotten a tattoo. Wait. I can’t ask that one. I have a tatt. Never have I ever lied to the fuzz. 

You can’t ask that, Sonya scolds. 

Malcolm wags his finger at Sonya as he clicks his tongue. My dearest, loveliest lioness, purposely giving vague or misleading information isn’t a lie. Everything I’ve ever said can be proven as true. It’s not my fault that it led them in an entirely wrong direction. 

Shit, if that’s how you want to play it, we should all drink to that one, she huffs. 

Alex suddenly surges to her feet. I need to sober up. I’ll be back. Maybe. 

Sonya nods her head after her sister, while ordering, Go with her. She scowls towards a group of young men who’ve been eyeing Alex and elbowing each other while snickering. It’s hard to tell if there’s some sort of history there or if they’re just being young and dumb. 

Yes, ma’am, I reply, following after Alex as she walks in a surprisingly straight line to the side door that leads to the alley. While she’d be able to handle a group twice their size while sober, there’s no telling what would happen when she’s three sheets to the wind. 

Alex is standing under the light illuminating the door and pulling her arm across her body as if stretching for a sports match. Sonya send you? 

Chuckling, I check the light post for chewing gum before leaning against it. She seems to be under the impression you needed someone to watch your back. 

Alex drunkenly leans against me. Aww. That’s so sweet. She leans back to look up at me. You know, this is the longest dry spell I’ve had since I started getting laid as a teenager. 

Oh? I question while desperately willing my lower half to not react to the fact Alex is practically rubbing on me like a cat in heat. While she hasn’t outright said she’s interested, we’ve gotten closer over the last month. It’d be nice to learn my attraction isn’t one-sided, though I’m not about to make the first move. She’s never said anything else about her ex since that first day, but between her snide remarks and hints dropped by others, it’s obvious he did a number on her. 

Yeah. An at the time necessity for avoiding the one who contributed the sperm cell to my existence. Spending the night to get away from his drunk ass meant sex with an equally awkward teenager. 

Are you wanting to end your dry spell? I ask bluntly. With Alex’s temperament and lack of sobriety, it’s best to be direct. 

Alex presses her fingers over my lips. Shh! Sonya will hear and be mad. 

That isn’t a no. Can’t have that now, I tease. Leaning down, I gently brush my lips over Alex’s. I don’t have the chance to take the kiss deeper because I’m on my ass, holding the side of my face. Alex, I’m sorry, I say quickly, gulping heavily as I look into her glowing yellow eyes. 

Why’d you have to ruin everything? she yells before stomping off to the back of the building. 

Feeling my very soul droop, I slowly get to my feet and force myself to make my way to my truck. As much as I want to run after her, I shouldn’t piss her off any more than I already have. I’ll give her some time to cool down and apologize when she’s ready to listen. 

Chapter 7

Alex

I should not have drunk that much, I groan, gripping the sides of my throbbing head in my hands. 

Are you finally awake? 

Nope. Drunk as fuck and having a whiskey-induced nightmare, I mutter while refusing to open my eyes. There’s no way it’s possible for him to be here. Not only is he far, far away, Sonya wouldn’t dare let him in the building, much less my room. Though his appearance would be the logical continuation of where a masked man jumped out of a van and jammed a needle into my neck. Rolling over, I grab my pillow and… Gross! I throw the ass-smelling piece of bedding away. 

That was rude. The man slowly lowers the pillow that somehow not only smacked his face but stuck there. 

No fucking way! I gasp. You’re supposed to be on tour. 

Logan flashes the sheepish yet sexy smile that got him out of trouble more than once while we were dating. Please don’t be mad, babe, but our tour got pushed back. Just by a few weeks. It’ll be enough time for us to get back on track so that we won’t have to worry about making up when I’m busy with gigs. 

I’m still way too drunk. There’s no way I heard that right. Back on track? In what world does getting your ass beat translate into a mere lover’s spat where you kiss and make up? My mind then wanders to memories of my mother who kept going back to my piece