Called by the Bear 4-6 (5 page)

T
aylor

O
ver breakfast
, Donna just asked me to have sex with Keith. But that's not the most shocking thing about my morning. No. Watching a sexy man that makes my insides tremble strip down and shift into a huge bear was even more unbelievable.

I barely taste the strong coffee when I take a sip. My mind is racing with all I learned this morning. Apparently, Keith is the man I'm destined to be with, and once I have sex with him, I seal our fated bond. Forget about my shock, because it's crazy that I’m considering the idea of spending the rest of my life with a man I barely know.

I glance across the breakfast table at Keith, and he captures me in his dark eyes. I say, “I’ll consider it.” Hell, every ounce of me can't wait to be alone and naked with Keith, but my pride won't let me say so. Especially since he and Sierra only broke up a few days ago.

Donna says, “Good. Now let's move on to the plan to rescue Sierra.”

I get a brief history of the three clans that make up the Northeast Kingdom of Black Bear and learn that Carly and Sierra were kidnapped by the evil Veilleux clan. Nobody knows what Victor Veilleux wants with Sierra, and there's speculation that perhaps they're true mates.

I get the feeling Donna would be happy to leave her with the Veilleux, but Carly won't have it. That means a team of us will be sneaking around on Veilleux land trying to find Sierra to bring her home.

Syrup oozes as I pour it over a waffle. To be honest, this is the kind of thing I used to dream about doing. I've been fascinated with martial arts since I was a young girl, and my father encouraged my training in krav maga once I was out of high school. I have fantasies of being in the CIA, and this opportunity excites me.

The sugary goodness of the waffle drenched in butter and real maple syrup fills my mouth, and I savor it as I listen to the plan being formed. I perk up when Donna mentions me.

“Taylor, because you aren't a werebear, I suggest you train with these guys today to understand what they can do and how they can keep you safe.”

“Okay. But wouldn’t you rather I become a werebear, too?” I probably should have kept my mouth shut, because while sex with Keith is easy to swallow, I’m not so keen on being part animal.

Annie snorts, “Oh, she's probably hoping you'll beg for it later.”

The wink she gives me suggests it may have something to do with sex, and I recall the way the bear in my dreams bit the tattoo on my shoulder. I tuck that thought away for later.

Donna says, “I won't ask you to do that, Taylor. That needs to be a decision you come to on your own.”

Ashton is leading the discussion now, and I almost gawk at the large, hard bodies he and his brother Ian have. I don't find either of them more attractive than Keith, but I'm glad they're on the rescue team. I imagine that in bear form, the twins are as strong as it gets.

It's decided that after breakfast, I'll spend the rest of the day training for our mission.

Paper rustles as Ian rolls out the maps for us to study. Ian says, “The border patrol has marked all the locations where they think Sierra might be held captive. The most likely is Victor's home, and from Carly's description of where she was, it’s possible.”

Ashton says, “We think the best night to try is the Fourth of July. Ambroise Veilleux is very ill, and Victor will probably be with his mother at the celebration to announce the intermarriage ruling.”

Carly interrupts to explain to me that marriage between the clans is being made legal, and it makes me think this world isn't that different from our human one with its prejudices.

A chair scrapes against the floor as Annie gets up to start clearing the table. Our meeting is breaking up, and I help to clear things away until I'm shooed out to train.

S
weat is rolling
down my face as I lean on my thighs to pant with exertion. I just spent almost an hour using every move I know against the bear form of Ian, and he batted at me as if I was a bug. An eerie noise catches my attention, and I see him shift into a human.

I glance over at Keith and Carly, who’ve been watching us. “I’m going to die out there, aren’t I?”

Keith’s brow is furrowed, and he shrugs. “I know better than to tell you what to do.”

Carly says, “Well, I don’t. You would, and I won’t let you go on the mission. So please don’t push it.”

I nod and take the bottle of water Ian hands me. “Thanks.” It’s cold in my hand, and I resist the urge to drink the whole thing and let cool liquid flow down my throat as if it’s sealing my resolution. About five minutes into the fight, I knew I was whipped. With each kick and punch, I was driving reality home. I have to change.

I glance at Ian. “Thank you for letting me work out my decision.” He grins at me, and I think he knew what I was doing. I turn back to Keith and Carly. “Make me a werebear.”

Keith sighs as he walks toward me. His searing hands hold my arms lightly, and I gaze into his chocolate-brown eyes as he says, “I’ve watched two people go through it now, and it’s a horrific experience. Are you sure?”

“Sierra and Carly lived through it, right?” I don’t say that if they can do it, I sure as hell can.

Carly says, “Yes, we did, and it’s pain like nothing you’ve ever experienced. You’ll wish you could die to escape it. But if it’s what you want to do, then we’ll make it happen. I want you as a warrior for the Le Roux.”

Something not quite human flickers in her eyes. Her voice is solid and strong, unlike the Carly I met in Connecticut. While she wasn’t demure, she didn’t exude the power I’m witnessing now.

I nod. “Let’s do this.”

Keith and Carly exchange a look that makes me think they must be doing that silent communication thing. Carly gazes at me with a small smile. “Tomorrow. Tonight you have a date.”

T
aylor

V
anilla scent wraps
around me with the steam of my bath. I’m a shower person, but when Annie suggested I soak in the tub with her special salts to soothe my aching muscles, I didn’t resist.

Soapy bubbles remain on my skin as I move the washcloth over my arm. I recall how cut Carly, Sierra, and Annie looked to me the first time I worked out with them. I was envious of their physical shape and agility, wondering how they were so naturally gifted when it was clear I had the most training. Little did I know I could have the same abilities. I just needed to become part bear.

And tomorrow I will. Lust shoots through me as I rub over the bear-paw tattoo on my shoulder, the very mark I’ve dreamt about teeth plunging into as my dream guy takes a bite. The sensation that follows is ecstasy, and I close my eyes, hoping the real thing is just as pleasurable.

Maybe tonight I’ll find out, and that thought makes me finish up so I’ll be ready in time for Keith. He’s coming to get me and take me to his house for dinner. Only I don’t think I need the romance piece and am tempted by the thought of getting to the main course well before we eat.

Slipping into a cotton skirt and loose peasant blouse, I remember to grab a sweater. The night air in northern Maine can get chilly, unlike the sweltering summers I’m used to. My strappy sandals tap quickly on the wooden stairs as I jog down.

Keith’s voice surprises me when I enter the kitchen. I say, “Hey, you’re early.”

He’s wearing jeans and a tight Henley shirt that hugs all his glorious muscles. He grins. “Anxious is more like it. Ready?”

“Absolutely.”

Annie says, “You two have fun. And Taylor?”

I break away from staring at Keith as if he’s my next meal and look at her. “Yes?”

“Don’t worry about coming home tonight.” She wiggles her eyebrows, and I fight the rush of blood to my cheeks. I’m going to have to get used to the lack of modesty when it comes to bodies and sex in this clan.

Keith offers his arm, and I latch on, wondering if I’ll ever let go as he says, “You look beautiful.”

“Thank you.” I rub his bicep with my other hand. “This shirt’s a good look for you.”

His deep laugh rumbles through me, tantalizing every last inch of my being, ensuring that sex is the only thing on my mind.

We walk out the door into the evening sun. The sky is pale periwinkle with orange-tinted clouds that make me think the sun is an orange ball hiding behind the trees. I climb into a Jeep that has the distinct odor of cut wood, and I inhale deeply.

“I hope you don’t mind the smell of pine. It follows me wherever I go. I never realized how much until—” Keith sighs. “Sorry.” The Jeep’s engine roars to a start when he turns the key.

I hate that I’m jealous of Sierra, but I’m not one to hide things. “It’s okay. I’d be lying if I said thinking of you with Sierra doesn’t hurt, but I know I matter more. Just be patient with me if the snark comes out.”

Keith turns to me and takes my face in his hands. “You do matter more. I know you don’t understand it yet, but it’s a bit like magnifying regular love to the point you know you’d die without it. Even if you wanted to be with another person, the true mate attraction makes it impossible.”

His touch has me trembling, and I lick my lips before I speak in a shaky voice. “I think I do get it. The way I feel about you makes the love I’ve had in the past seem like a crush.”

A low noise that is almost a growl comes from Keith as he kisses me. No, it’s more than a kiss. It’s as if he’s trying to clear my memories of anyone but him, and it’s working. My mind swims in the sensations, melting any resolve I have.

Before I know it, I’ve reached under his shirt, and my fingers are threaded through the hair on his chest. Heat radiates from him, and I want to feel all of him against all of me without any layers to protect us.

Keith stops first, and I almost pout like a child when he pulls away. “Christ, let’s get to my house, because I don’t want our first time to be in Brady’s driveway where everyone can hear.”

I recall what they told me about bear hearing being acute and fight another blush. When did I become a teenager again? “Right. I think you promised me dinner, too.”

“Right.” Strong fingers move under the hem of my skirt and up my inner thigh as he backs up. “Dinner.”

Tempted as I am to direct Keith’s hand higher, I control my urge for the two-mile drive to his house. But as soon as his front door slams shut with a solid thud, I begin to yank at his clothes.
Keith does the same, and I think I hear fabric tear as I lose myself in his frantic kiss. Hot breath and moist lips move down my chest to suckle my breast as his hands rub down my back and over my hips.

I moan as I arch against him. We’re still in his entryway when Keith pushes me against the front door, and wood is cool on my skin as he lowers to his knees. Kisses travel their way down my body, and I flinch when Keith’s tongue swirls into my navel.

My core is pulsing with need when I whisper, “Keith.”

His voice is muffled as he moves between my legs. “I’m all yours, Taylor.” Keith’s tongue slides into my sensitive folds, and teeth nibble on my tender bud as I quake.

“Oh, God. I don’t think I can stand much longer.” While the orgasm that’s so close makes me want to try, I push his head away. “I love what you’re doing, but I want to come around you the first time.”

Keith stands, and my gaze locks on his huge erection. I want him inside me as deep as he can go. A couch sits against the same wall, and I recall a scene from my dreams, one where I’m bitten and experience the most intense climax I’ve ever had. I step over to it. “Here.” I lay my belly on the arm of the sofa as I bend over it, offering myself to him.

The growl that comes from Keith shoots straight to my heart, and when he thrusts into me, I gasp and push back to meet him. Our coupling is fast and primal as the sound of grunts and slapping skin fills my ears. When Keith’s moist finger swirls around my clit, I fall. “Keith!”

He doesn’t stop stroking me with his hand or his cock, and my orgasm hangs on forever, like a wave in slow motion. At the point I’m sure I’ll pass out, my name explodes from his mouth as hot seed slams against the walls of my core.

The slick, hot skin of Keith slumps over me, and the weight of him presses like the overwhelming sensation of my heart filling with love. Words tickle my skin. “Would it scare you if I said I love you?”

I shudder as he licks my tattoo and sends waves of pleasure through me. Shit, now I want more. He lifts off me and slides his dick out slowly as I say, “No. Because I’m in love with you, too.” I stand and turn to his embrace.

I move my hands down to place my palms on the hollow sections along the sides of his ass. “Would it scare you if I said let’s skip dinner and go to your bed?”

I let out a squeal when he scoops me up into his arms. “I’m not a very good cook anyway.”

For the first time in my life, a man carries me up the stairs, and I feel like a princess. After years of bucking traditional roles, I discover that right now it’s what I want. “You have other talents. I’ll do the cooking.”

L
ily

I
have
a meeting with Donna and Annie this morning, and my stomach hurts knowing I have to tell them I don't want to be with Ian. Even the aroma of Annie's blueberry muffins isn't helping as I slick my hair back in a ponytail.

I'm hoping they'll let me keep working if I promise to move out on my own as soon as I can. If not, I'm not sure what I'll do with no place else to go and nobody to turn to. While I suppose I could ask Victor for help, that's not the way I want to start our relationship.

Taking a deep breath, I survey myself in the mirror one more time before leaving my room. Donna and Annie's conversation is muffled as I move down the hall, but it's happy, and I hope their good mood makes them take my news well.

I enter the kitchen to hushed voices, and my stomach flips. “Good morning.”

Donna grins at me, but her face is drawn as if she didn’t sleep well. “Nice to see you, Lily. Now, grab some breakfast and have a seat. I believe we have a few things to sort out.”

My stomach is rolling now, but I load up my plate in an effort to think positive. Annie says, “Mother, you would be impressed with how well Lily is getting our products out there. She's going to make this a profitable tourist season.”

Whew, that's a good note to start on. My plate thumps down on the table, and I sit and look into Donna's waiting face.

She says, “Ian's not floating your boat, is he?”

Her word choice makes me want to giggle. I sigh instead. “Not really. I'm sorry.”

Donna touches my arm. “Don't be. We'll find you a man that makes your heart sing.” She looks down at my untouched food. “Were you nervous to tell me that?”

I nod. “I know you want me to get married and have children, but I don't think I'm ready. I'm disappointing you, and if I need to move out I—”

Annie interrupts me. “No. You haven't disappointed us in the least. I meant it when I was bragging about your work. You're welcome to stay here as long as you want, and nobody is rushing you to get married.”

“Oh. But then why was I called?”

Donna says, “You were called to help us have children, but that can happen when it's the right time. Your happiness is the most important thing. Do you like working with Annie?”

“Yes, very much.”

Annie says, “Good, then you keep on doing great things. We’ll find you someone.” She slides the butter toward me, and I slice into the creamy texture to smear it on my muffin. “There's no need to rush love. It’ll happen when the time is right.”

I think about my feelings for Victor as I push my eggs around on my plate. I wonder what they'll think if I don't want to marry a Le Roux. My dreams and tattoo mean I was called to help them carry on the family name and business. What if I end up with Victor? I shake off the thought, because even though I think I've found the one, it's too early to share that news. I'll wait to deal with that bridge if I have to cross it.

Salty bacon tempts my tongue as I nibble on it, pretending to eat. Annie shares some of my ideas with Donna. I pipe in with a few more, and we continue brainstorming plans for pumping up the wholesale side of the gift products arm of the Bear Mountain Tree Farm business. Donna used to run it, and I can tell she enjoys the discussion.

It’s decided I should go on the road next week to follow up on my contacts throughout the major cities in Maine. I’m so relieved to miss out on any matchmaking efforts at the Fourth of July celebration that I can finally eat my breakfast.

Devouring my potatoes, I’m distracted by the crunchy texture giving way to the carbohydrate goodness and almost miss the question directed at me.

Annie asks, “Do you have any ideas for the summer gift basket theme?”

My mind envisions my date with Victor tomorrow. “How about picnics in the meadow?” As Donna jumps on my theme with thoughts of her own, I smile, imagining the physical version I have in mind.

B
ecause I'm not
ready to share dating Victor with the Le Roux, I arranged to meet him in town. My nerves have me tapping my fingers on the steering wheel as I drive to the grocery store parking lot where I'll leave my truck. Flipping through radio stations, I can’t seem to find one that isn't playing a song about heartbreak. I stop when I hear vintage rock. But the vision of my drunken mother dancing around our tiny living room sends guilt rushing in. I hit the button, and the music clicks off. Leaving her to fend for herself isn't the thought road I should travel before meeting a man who makes my heart flutter.

When I pull into Shaw's Supermarket, I spot Victor's black car right away. He's leaning against it with those sunglasses, looking every bit as sexy as I remember. He’s dressed down in shorts and hiking boots, and I long to trace the definition in his thigh muscles with my finger. He's one massive man with a body that screams power.

Metal groans when Victor pulls my door open for me to get out of my pickup truck. He takes in my nylon shorts, tee, and sturdy boots. “I love a girl that knows how to dress for a hike.”

I can't help the grin that covers my face at his compliment. “And I like the way you look in shorts.” I blush at my bold words, and Victor chuckles.

“Climb in.” Victor’s usual driver is nowhere to be seen, and he opens the door to his sleek BMW himself. I slide over buttery-soft leather heated from the sun.

His car has the faint odor of the cologne I find irresistible, and I take a deep breath as if I can keep it trapped inside me.

Victor asks, “Mind if we keep the windows open instead of using the AC?”

“Not at all.” I pull my cheap sunglasses down from the top of my head and lean back to enjoy the ride. Stealing a glance at Victor, I see he's looking at me, too, and when he grins, I smile with confidence I don't usually have.
He likes me!

Maroon Five is blaring out of the speakers as we glide along the windy road toward more rural land. Much like the Le Roux acreage, the asphalt gives way to dirt, and we slow down to accommodate. The air cools as we get deeper into the heavy pine forest, and strands of hair whip around my face from the breeze rushing in the windows. Victor pulls off into a small dirt lot and parks.

His large hand lands on my thigh, and it's so hot it's as if he's branding me. My seat belt zings back as I turn to Victor, and he says, “I’m taking you to one of my favorite places, and before you ask, I don't bring a lot of girls there.” He leans forward and lowers his voice to a level that makes tiny hairs stand up on the back of my neck. “I can't even remember the last one, because none of them matter since I met you.”

Wow.
Heat rises to my cheeks, and I drop my gaze.

Victor lifts my chin with his finger. “Hey.” He glances at my mouth and shakes his head slightly before he brushes his lips against mine. It's just a hint of what I really want for a kiss from him, and I wish I were bold enough to respond with more.

He says, “Sorry, I was having trouble thinking straight.”

I snort because it's such a line, and I give him one right back. “I’m lost in you, too.”

He grins. “I mean it when I say you've affected me that much. I hope someday you'll feel the same way.”

If he only knew!
I smile and don't say anything because I'm not ready to brave my heart to a smooth-talking guy. That doesn't mean I'm not going to pretend he doesn't mean it, though. “Let's see this special place.”

We get out of the car, and the trunk pops open for Victor to retrieve a big backpack and a smaller one. He says, “I can carry everything if you want.”

“No, it would feel strange to not even carry my water.”

“Good. You have the blanket, so it's not heavy.”

I take the cool nylon and slip my arms under the straps. I adjust the waist belt and grin as it clicks shut. “I’m not exactly a waif. I can handle more than a blanket.”

“If you were a skinny girl, I never would have given you a second look.” His gaze moves down my body, and I cock a hip, feeling sexy.

Victor leads us to a path I hadn't noticed at the edge of the lot. It's narrow, and he holds branches back for me as we wind our way through.

We don't walk far before the trees open to a meadow, and the trail leads us through the middle. Victor stops and lets me gaze out at the wildflowers scattered throughout. I marvel at the carpet of color. “This is so beautiful.”

Victor bends down and picks a small, floppy orange flower. Leaning over me, he sticks it into the back of my ponytail. “There, now you look like a fairy princess.”

I guess that makes you my prince.
“I kind of want to pick a bunch and make you a crown.”

I pull out my water bottle, and cool liquid flows down my throat as he asks, “How about I make you one when we get to the picnic spot? There will be lots of flowers there, too.”

Our boots thump as we start walking again. “You know how to make a flower crown?”

Victor turns to step backward and winks at me. “I have many skills.”

My insides tremble at the thought of what those might be. I poke his stomach lightly. “I’ll just bet you do.”

He grabs my hand and yanks me against his body. His shirt is damp with sweat, and a male musk floats around me as his arm wraps around my waist. Tipping my chin up to his face, he asks, “Mind if I show you one right now?”

I shake my head as I hold my breath. When his lips meet mine, I melt into him. Our kiss starts tender, but when our tongues entwine, my desire ignites. Moving my hands up his back, I press against the thin layer of his shirt, wishing I were touching skin. Victor's hands cup my butt, and the heat that's transmitted through my shorts pulls me like a moth to a flame.

The hard erection pushing against my belly is huge, and I should be afraid of the size. But the idea of his cock matching the rest of him makes me want him that much more, knowing he'll fill me up and complete me.

When we break apart, we're both trembling, and he says, “It would be so easy to lose control with you, Lily.” He takes a deep breath and continues. “But I don't want to ruin this.”

He reaches for my hand, and I let him lead me the rest of the way. I wonder what on earth could possibly ruin this, because right now I'm a sure thing. There's no going too far with me, because I want it all.