Zoe Perdita's Blog, page 21
September 3, 2013
Thief (Black Wolves Book One) Released!
Thief is out! This time we get a look at the seedy underbelly of Haven City. I hope everyone enjoys it.
The universe is a bitch.
When Fisk, a cat shifter and thief, is sold into sex slavery, the most dangerous shifter gang in Haven City buys him: the Black Wolves. Problem is, Fisk stole from them three years before, and it cost the wolf gang precious territory. When they find out, they force Fisk to work off his debt. A debt to the tune of half a million dollars.
The universe has a plan.
Ian Black, the gang’s leader and alpha wolf, has plans for Fisk. It’s up to Breaker, the beta, to follow the boss’s orders. Breaker doesn’t expect to fall for the alluring feline with the bad attitude. He’s been nothing but loyal to his alpha and their pack his entire life. But Fisk wakes a desire Breaker's never known. Only Fisk strikes Ian’s fancy too, and a beta can’t cross an alpha.
The universe has a sick sense of humor.
Fisk finds himself torn between two very different men - Ian, the sexy alpha and Breaker, the stoic enforcer. One of the wolves is his mate, but Fisk isn’t sure how to handle it. Sex is one thing – love is something else.
As passion sizzles between the three men, Breaker feels the truth - Fisk is his mate. How can he choose between loyalty to his alpha and loyalty to his heart?
Contains graphic m/m love scenes.
Get it here:
Amazon
Barnes & Noble
All Romance
Kobo
The universe is a bitch.
When Fisk, a cat shifter and thief, is sold into sex slavery, the most dangerous shifter gang in Haven City buys him: the Black Wolves. Problem is, Fisk stole from them three years before, and it cost the wolf gang precious territory. When they find out, they force Fisk to work off his debt. A debt to the tune of half a million dollars.
The universe has a plan.
Ian Black, the gang’s leader and alpha wolf, has plans for Fisk. It’s up to Breaker, the beta, to follow the boss’s orders. Breaker doesn’t expect to fall for the alluring feline with the bad attitude. He’s been nothing but loyal to his alpha and their pack his entire life. But Fisk wakes a desire Breaker's never known. Only Fisk strikes Ian’s fancy too, and a beta can’t cross an alpha.
The universe has a sick sense of humor.
Fisk finds himself torn between two very different men - Ian, the sexy alpha and Breaker, the stoic enforcer. One of the wolves is his mate, but Fisk isn’t sure how to handle it. Sex is one thing – love is something else.
As passion sizzles between the three men, Breaker feels the truth - Fisk is his mate. How can he choose between loyalty to his alpha and loyalty to his heart?
Contains graphic m/m love scenes.
Get it here:
Amazon
Barnes & Noble
All Romance
Kobo
September 2, 2013
Rogue Wolf Book Set Cover Reveal
It's almost time! Thief (Black Wolves Book One) and the Rogue Wolf Book set both come out tomorrow (9/3/13).
Here's a look at the new cover:
Here's a look at the new cover:
August 30, 2013
Thief (Black Wolves Book One) Print Cover
The print cover is here! It took me way longer than I want to admit to write the blurb. I hate blurbs, but listening to David Bowie's Hunky Dory makes it better. Great album ^_^
The print and ebook should come out on the same day (I hope!)
The print and ebook should come out on the same day (I hope!)
August 28, 2013
Thief (Black Wolves Book One) Sneak Peek: Chapter One
So the new book is in the final phases of editing. I'll be done with the finishing touches today -- then I get to move on to the joy of formatting.
It will be released on September 3, 2013 -- less than one week away! I'm excited, and I hope people don't hate it. I don't think the fear/anticipation of a new release will ever go away.
I'm also going to release the first two Haven City Series books (Shadow Scars and Alpha's Shadow) as an ebook set at a 20% discount over buying them both separately. It's going to come out the same day as Thief.
Without further ado, here's the sneak peek at the first chapter. Like usual, I'll send a sneak peek of the second chapter to my mailing list. Join if you want to read it first!
1
If you’re going to be a thief, be the best thief.
The words ran through Fisk’s head as he crept into the room. Great pep talk, dad! Being the best was an easy thing to say and a harder thing to practice. Especially with a whole group of armed tiger shifters right outside the door.
Why the hell did he take this job again?
Even better, why did he come back to Haven City?
Right. Seb.
If he got out of this Fisk was going to kill Sebastian, brother or not.
Fisk shook the water from his fur and tilted his tail to keep balance. It had to rain today. Not that it was much of a surprise. During the spring, it rained almost every day in Haven. But couldn’t it have let up on the night he had a job?
No. He wasn’t that lucky.
Fisk’s eyes shone in the darkness, picking up shapes that normal humans couldn’t see. Too bad his cat shifter sense of smell wasn’t as good as a dog, but the tiger shifter’s senses weren’t as sharp either. They probably wouldn’t notice he was here.
Okay. He hoped on his mother’s grave they didn’t notice.
Getting caught by the Triad would make this the worst night ever – and that wasn’t hyperbole. Actually, getting caught by the Black Wolves would be worse. The thought froze him in place.
No. Fisk wouldn’t risk stealing from the most dangerous shifter gang in Haven again. Not after what happened last time. The Triad were like girl scouts compared to the Black Wolves.
He leapt from the windowsill to the desk, lifting his paws to avoid knocking over the pen holder. The whole room was a treasure trove of Chinese antiques. Ming dynasty vases. Little jade figurines. If he had a fence for this stuff, he could wipe them out.
But that wasn’t the job.
He only needed one thing, and it had to be in a safe.
The heavy scent of lead guided Fisk to the painting hanging above the fireplace. How cliché could they get? At least Mao, the Triad leader, could’ve put the damn thing in her desk.
Maybe make it a challenge.
Then he thought of Seb on the roof across the street. This wasn’t a game – Fisk’s twin needed help robbing the tiger shifters in order to pay off the Russians. It sounded like the plot to some cheesy action movie, but neither of them were heroes. Not in the least.
Fisk shook his head, shedding his cat shape and turning into a human – a very naked human.
A shuffle outside the door caught his attention. A couple of men muttered something in Chinese, but Fisk didn’t understand what they were talking about. Hopefully it had nothing to do with torturing the cat thief currently cracking their boss’s safe.
He held his breath and waited a long moment.
Finally, the muttering stopped and the footsteps moved away from the door.
Fisk closed his eyes.
Quiet.
Good.
The painting slid aside easily, revealing the little safe. His fingers twitched as he touched it. Carefully turning it, he listened for the slightest click.
No.
No.
Yes!
Too easy. Or maybe he’d been on the job too long. Too many years slinking through the darkness and relieving others of their valuables.
Fisk still remembered his first time. His dad hefted him up the tree to the mansion – a house at Lake Orlando. He got caught by the kid who lived there, but the little girl thought he was a stray cat. When she came back with her mother in tow, the woman’s diamond necklace was safely tucked into his dad’s hands, and the two of them disappeared into the night.
Fisk almost smiled. He’d been pretty good for an eleven-year-old.
Another click.
One more, and he could get out of there.
Fisk held his breath again and listened.
Footsteps on the stairs.
Nearer.
Nearer.
Click.
He pulled the safe open.
There!
Another step.
The door handle slipped under someone’s hand.
Fisk grabbed the papers and slid outside.
Whoever opened the door found the safe closed, the picture back in its place and the window shut.
With the envelope tucked under his arm, Fisk scooted down the ledge. The damp brick pressed into his skin, raising goose bumps along his flesh. If anyone looked up, they’d get a nice view of his nude body, but most people kept their eyes straight ahead in Chinatown. Especially if they weren’t part of the Triad.
He leapt to the opposite building, scaling the fire escape, and tumbled onto the roof. Shit. Gravel never felt good on his bare ass.
Seb held out Fisk’s pants and turned away, his nose wrinkled.
“Put these on.”
Fisk dropped the envelope and frowned at his twin. “What? Put on the pants? I was planning on dancing nude on the rooftop all night.”
His cat-like agility failed him as he jumped into the black jeans, slipping them up his hips and almost tripping over the legs.
“That’s it?” Seb asked, lifting the envelope carefully, like it was rigged to explode.
Fisk frowned and pulled the T-shirt and hoodie over his head. It mussed his wild, caramel colored hair, which was already damp with rain. Seb’s was so wet it stuck to his temples, dripping into his eyes. He shivered in his own black jacket.
“That’s all that was in the safe. Unless your information was wrong and she hides it somewhere else. Do you have any idea what else I could have filched?”
“Those Ming vases. Oh, and a thousand year old jade comb – can’t remember the dynasty on that one.”
Fisk frowned as he brushed the gravel from his feet and slipped on his boots. If Seb didn’t remember the exact value of the comb, let alone the dynasty, something was wrong.
“And you just wanted me to burgle the safe. Next time, I’ll take the rest for myself. We still know that fence on Burnside, right?”
“You couldn’t have carried that out all on your own. Plus, this is the only thing the Russians wanted. Come on.”
Seb walked toward the fire escape at the opposite side of the building, and Fisk scowled after him. “You could’ve helped me. Then we could’ve carried the vases. That would’ve made both the Russians and me happy.”
Fisk didn’t bring up Seb’s idiotic involvement with the bear shifters. No point. They’d had that argument on the phone. And in Seb’s apartment. And on the way over here.
Rehashing it again was a waste of time.
“I’m not as good as you. Even dad thought so,” Seb said when they got back to the street.
His chest heaved from the climb down, and a line of sweat dotted his brow. It was an old case of silver poisoning that happened when they were kids. The healer said it stayed in Seb’s bloodstream too long and would affect him the rest of his life. Make him slower and weaker than his twin.
Looking at them, no one on the outside could tell. They were identical, right down to their eyelashes. Even in cat form, they looked exactly alike. Smooth caramel-orange fur with white underbellies. But get Seb in a tense situation, and he’d pass out. His body couldn’t handle the stress.
“Fine, but you could’ve told me about the comb.” Fisk’s stomach rumbled and he glanced down the brightly lit street. Hanging out in Chinatown with goods stolen from the Triad wasn’t the best idea, but working always made him hungry.
Seb’s fingers dug into the envelope, and he glanced over his shoulder several times.
Way to make it obvious you’re up to no good, Fisk thought.
“I thought you wanted to go straight. No more doing dad’s dirty work.”
Fisk snorted and shoved his hands into his pockets. “You know that was all talk. I almost got caught that night, and it was that asshole’s fault. I was pissed.”
Pissed was a glorious understatement – he would’ve killed their dad had the bastard stuck around long enough to let him. And Fisk sure as hell didn’t go straight – not in New York. Or Paris. Or Istanbul. But Seb just said it to irk him. Rub in that he hadn’t been home in years.
“Plus, I can’t do dirty work for someone who’s gone. He never would’ve risked stealing from the Black Wolves, but he could have his son do it just fine.”
Seb put his head down and squeezed his hands into fists, but he didn’t say anything. He only had to deal with the intelligence side of the operation, meaning he worked with mom and not dad.
“You gonna buy me dinner, Seb?” Fisk asked as they passed a noodle stall.
Seb shook his head. “No. I have to get this to the Russians now. Then we can eat. Wait at my place and–”
Fisk sighed and grabbed the envelope. Then he tucked it into his hoodie and frowned. “I’ll take it to them. Go home and rest. Better yet, cook me something. Salmon, if you have any.”
A drop of rain ran down Seb’s smooth cheek, and his green eyes widened. Did Fisk look that young and innocent? They were only twenty-two. How come he felt about ten years older?
“No. It’s my debt, and I’ll pay it off. I just needed you to get this for me. I can handle the rest.”
There Seb went being a stubborn jackass again. Fisk grabbed his brother’s shoulders and squeezed. “Salmon. Grilled. With a little wedge of lemon on the side.”
“You’ll have to settle for a tuna sandwich with a pickle,” Seb muttered.
Fisk smiled at the frown on his twin’s lips. “Done. Now go home. And no more gambling. Seriously, what the hell possessed you to borrow from the Russians? They’re crazy! And huge!”
Seb pulled his shoulders free and shook his head. “Even I make bad decisions from time to time. I know this is the only reason you came back, and I’m grateful. Are you sure you’ll be okay?”
That stung more than Fisk wanted to let on. He hadn’t come back to Haven since dad ran off with the cash from the last job. He hadn’t been around to take care of Seb, and he abandoned his own brother like their dad abandoned them. Fisk shrugged. “If they don’t try to eat me, yeah. I’ll be fine.”
With one final nod, Seb hailed a cab. Fisk walked in the opposite direction, his mouth watering. He hoped Seb’s tuna wasn’t expired.
Haven City didn’t have a Russian town, officially, but most of the immigrants lived in the neighborhoods near the river or in the bear shifter territory in Felony Flats. The Russians ran about half of the trade on the coast, probably smuggling drugs. As far as Fisk knew, the Russians and the Triad ran the docks, splitting the territory down the middle.
Seb did mention the Flats had fewer gangs in the last couple years. Same amount of violence though. When the small time gangs moved out, the bigger and more dangerous shifter gangs moved in.
And now that Fisk was back, Seb got them into a situation where they were stretched between the Russians and the Triad like meat on a hook. But who the hell was Fisk to talk about bad decisions when they both took over the family business?
At least that’s what was supposed to happen, until Fisk skipped town.
If he hadn’t left Seb on his own, none of this would’ve happened.
The Peterhof nightclub stood next to the river. The stench of rotten fish filled the air, and Fisk slipped his hands into his pockets and squared his shoulders. A camera was tucked into the shadows, and he pulled the hood around his face. He didn’t need a record of his visit here.
Dealing with bear shifters wasn’t his idea of a fun night out, but Seb didn’t leave him much of a choice. What if they cut off one of his twin’s fingers to make a point? Or one of Fisk’s own fingers. . . .
Like usual, he didn’t think things through. He just jumped in and hoped for the best. Once he was sure Seb was safe, he’d get the hell out of Haven again and back to his old life. Back to running away – it was easier than standing still.
The bouncers at the door (whom Fisk affectionately nicknamed Big and Stupid) reeked of vodka and sweat, and they both towered over Fisk by more than a head. He was used to it. Cat shifters weren’t known for their great stature, and he was smaller than most. At least he could slip in and out of places easily. And he was faster than a damn bear.
He gave Big and Stupid his best sheepish smile. “I’m here to see the Czar. Vlad?” Hopefully, these two were familiar enough with Seb to mistake Fisk for his brother.
Everyone else did.
Big sniffed the air. “Kitty shifter, all right. Upstairs.”
Stupid opened the door.
Fisk let out a slow breath. He was in. That was always the easy part. He clomped up the stairs, letting each footstep announce his arrival. He didn’t usually walk like that, but the Russians didn’t need to know how quiet he could be if needed.
The music from the club pounded below his feet. Some Euro trash techno that was more sound than actual music. The beat of the bass was as quick as his own heart.
Fisk swallowed and stepped into Vlad’s office. It was one of those grubby backrooms with an oversized desk, a fading poster of the Communist hammer and sickle on the wall, and a leak in the corner of the ceiling. The Russians obviously didn’t care about building codes.
The bear shifter raised his eyes, as dark as night, from his work. Vlad’s bulk dwarfed his worn leather chair.
“I got the envelope from the Tiger Triad,” Fisk said, patting his chest so the paper crinkled under his hoodie.
“Good. Give it to me,” Vlad said with a low rumble. The bear’s face was like a blank canvas.
Fisk didn’t pull out the envelope. “I want proof that you’ll forgive my debt for this. No more loan sharks. No more shifters disturbing my business.”
The bear shifter raised his thick eyebrows. His massive shoulders flexed as he stood. “I already gave you my word. Is this not good enough?”
“No. I want it in writing. And signed,” Fisk said.
Vlad laughed. It shook his entire frame. “In writing. Are you giving me orders, kitty?”
Shit. Tread carefully around them! At least bear shifters were slow. If Vlad attacked, Fisk could probably make it to the door first. Getting out of the building wouldn’t be as simple.
“No. But I know how your gang works. I want this to be the last time we do business together. A clean cut.”
“Fine. This will be our last business deal, Thomas. Let me see the envelope.”
Fisk smiled at the name. He and Seb used an alias, Thomas Booker, for all their business dealings. Most of their associates didn’t even know Thomas was two separate people.
He set the envelope on the desk and held his breath. He’d looked at it on the way over, but it was some kind of formula that didn’t make sense to him. Too bad he dropped out of high school before he took chemistry.
Vlad fingered through the papers and grinned. His yellow teeth caught the light, and Fisk frowned at the size of the man’s canines. If they got a hold of a cat. . . .
“Well?”
“This is good. Yes. This is very, very good. You’ve almost paid off your debt.”
Fisk stiffened.
Motherfucker.
This is just what he was afraid of. Good thing he came in Seb’s place. “Almost? But you said I needed to steal this from the Triad and that was it. No more payments.”
The bear sneered. “I did say that. But . . . I lied. Now that you got me what I want, I don’t want you to tell the Tigers I have it. That would be no good. No good at all.”
Fisk stepped backwards. The closer he was to the door, the faster he could get away. Why didn’t that bastard’s office have any windows? “I – I won’t tell anyone. Promise.”
Vlad laughed. “I can’t take the word of a gambler. You promise but you don’t deliver. I don’t take promises.”
The door creaked open and two large hands grasped Fisk’s shoulders. It was either Big or Stupid – not that it mattered now. He couldn’t fight off two bear shifters.
“So you’re going to kill me?” Fisk squeaked. How much money did Seb borrow from these fuckers?
The bear shook his head. “Kill you? No. You’re too valuable to kill. I’m going to sell you. Take him to the cage.”
What the hell was the cage?
It will be released on September 3, 2013 -- less than one week away! I'm excited, and I hope people don't hate it. I don't think the fear/anticipation of a new release will ever go away.
I'm also going to release the first two Haven City Series books (Shadow Scars and Alpha's Shadow) as an ebook set at a 20% discount over buying them both separately. It's going to come out the same day as Thief.
Without further ado, here's the sneak peek at the first chapter. Like usual, I'll send a sneak peek of the second chapter to my mailing list. Join if you want to read it first!
1
If you’re going to be a thief, be the best thief.
The words ran through Fisk’s head as he crept into the room. Great pep talk, dad! Being the best was an easy thing to say and a harder thing to practice. Especially with a whole group of armed tiger shifters right outside the door.
Why the hell did he take this job again?
Even better, why did he come back to Haven City?
Right. Seb.
If he got out of this Fisk was going to kill Sebastian, brother or not.
Fisk shook the water from his fur and tilted his tail to keep balance. It had to rain today. Not that it was much of a surprise. During the spring, it rained almost every day in Haven. But couldn’t it have let up on the night he had a job?
No. He wasn’t that lucky.
Fisk’s eyes shone in the darkness, picking up shapes that normal humans couldn’t see. Too bad his cat shifter sense of smell wasn’t as good as a dog, but the tiger shifter’s senses weren’t as sharp either. They probably wouldn’t notice he was here.
Okay. He hoped on his mother’s grave they didn’t notice.
Getting caught by the Triad would make this the worst night ever – and that wasn’t hyperbole. Actually, getting caught by the Black Wolves would be worse. The thought froze him in place.
No. Fisk wouldn’t risk stealing from the most dangerous shifter gang in Haven again. Not after what happened last time. The Triad were like girl scouts compared to the Black Wolves.
He leapt from the windowsill to the desk, lifting his paws to avoid knocking over the pen holder. The whole room was a treasure trove of Chinese antiques. Ming dynasty vases. Little jade figurines. If he had a fence for this stuff, he could wipe them out.
But that wasn’t the job.
He only needed one thing, and it had to be in a safe.
The heavy scent of lead guided Fisk to the painting hanging above the fireplace. How cliché could they get? At least Mao, the Triad leader, could’ve put the damn thing in her desk.
Maybe make it a challenge.
Then he thought of Seb on the roof across the street. This wasn’t a game – Fisk’s twin needed help robbing the tiger shifters in order to pay off the Russians. It sounded like the plot to some cheesy action movie, but neither of them were heroes. Not in the least.
Fisk shook his head, shedding his cat shape and turning into a human – a very naked human.
A shuffle outside the door caught his attention. A couple of men muttered something in Chinese, but Fisk didn’t understand what they were talking about. Hopefully it had nothing to do with torturing the cat thief currently cracking their boss’s safe.
He held his breath and waited a long moment.
Finally, the muttering stopped and the footsteps moved away from the door.
Fisk closed his eyes.
Quiet.
Good.
The painting slid aside easily, revealing the little safe. His fingers twitched as he touched it. Carefully turning it, he listened for the slightest click.
No.
No.
Yes!
Too easy. Or maybe he’d been on the job too long. Too many years slinking through the darkness and relieving others of their valuables.
Fisk still remembered his first time. His dad hefted him up the tree to the mansion – a house at Lake Orlando. He got caught by the kid who lived there, but the little girl thought he was a stray cat. When she came back with her mother in tow, the woman’s diamond necklace was safely tucked into his dad’s hands, and the two of them disappeared into the night.
Fisk almost smiled. He’d been pretty good for an eleven-year-old.
Another click.
One more, and he could get out of there.
Fisk held his breath again and listened.
Footsteps on the stairs.
Nearer.
Nearer.
Click.
He pulled the safe open.
There!
Another step.
The door handle slipped under someone’s hand.
Fisk grabbed the papers and slid outside.
Whoever opened the door found the safe closed, the picture back in its place and the window shut.
With the envelope tucked under his arm, Fisk scooted down the ledge. The damp brick pressed into his skin, raising goose bumps along his flesh. If anyone looked up, they’d get a nice view of his nude body, but most people kept their eyes straight ahead in Chinatown. Especially if they weren’t part of the Triad.
He leapt to the opposite building, scaling the fire escape, and tumbled onto the roof. Shit. Gravel never felt good on his bare ass.
Seb held out Fisk’s pants and turned away, his nose wrinkled.
“Put these on.”
Fisk dropped the envelope and frowned at his twin. “What? Put on the pants? I was planning on dancing nude on the rooftop all night.”
His cat-like agility failed him as he jumped into the black jeans, slipping them up his hips and almost tripping over the legs.
“That’s it?” Seb asked, lifting the envelope carefully, like it was rigged to explode.
Fisk frowned and pulled the T-shirt and hoodie over his head. It mussed his wild, caramel colored hair, which was already damp with rain. Seb’s was so wet it stuck to his temples, dripping into his eyes. He shivered in his own black jacket.
“That’s all that was in the safe. Unless your information was wrong and she hides it somewhere else. Do you have any idea what else I could have filched?”
“Those Ming vases. Oh, and a thousand year old jade comb – can’t remember the dynasty on that one.”
Fisk frowned as he brushed the gravel from his feet and slipped on his boots. If Seb didn’t remember the exact value of the comb, let alone the dynasty, something was wrong.
“And you just wanted me to burgle the safe. Next time, I’ll take the rest for myself. We still know that fence on Burnside, right?”
“You couldn’t have carried that out all on your own. Plus, this is the only thing the Russians wanted. Come on.”
Seb walked toward the fire escape at the opposite side of the building, and Fisk scowled after him. “You could’ve helped me. Then we could’ve carried the vases. That would’ve made both the Russians and me happy.”
Fisk didn’t bring up Seb’s idiotic involvement with the bear shifters. No point. They’d had that argument on the phone. And in Seb’s apartment. And on the way over here.
Rehashing it again was a waste of time.
“I’m not as good as you. Even dad thought so,” Seb said when they got back to the street.
His chest heaved from the climb down, and a line of sweat dotted his brow. It was an old case of silver poisoning that happened when they were kids. The healer said it stayed in Seb’s bloodstream too long and would affect him the rest of his life. Make him slower and weaker than his twin.
Looking at them, no one on the outside could tell. They were identical, right down to their eyelashes. Even in cat form, they looked exactly alike. Smooth caramel-orange fur with white underbellies. But get Seb in a tense situation, and he’d pass out. His body couldn’t handle the stress.
“Fine, but you could’ve told me about the comb.” Fisk’s stomach rumbled and he glanced down the brightly lit street. Hanging out in Chinatown with goods stolen from the Triad wasn’t the best idea, but working always made him hungry.
Seb’s fingers dug into the envelope, and he glanced over his shoulder several times.
Way to make it obvious you’re up to no good, Fisk thought.
“I thought you wanted to go straight. No more doing dad’s dirty work.”
Fisk snorted and shoved his hands into his pockets. “You know that was all talk. I almost got caught that night, and it was that asshole’s fault. I was pissed.”
Pissed was a glorious understatement – he would’ve killed their dad had the bastard stuck around long enough to let him. And Fisk sure as hell didn’t go straight – not in New York. Or Paris. Or Istanbul. But Seb just said it to irk him. Rub in that he hadn’t been home in years.
“Plus, I can’t do dirty work for someone who’s gone. He never would’ve risked stealing from the Black Wolves, but he could have his son do it just fine.”
Seb put his head down and squeezed his hands into fists, but he didn’t say anything. He only had to deal with the intelligence side of the operation, meaning he worked with mom and not dad.
“You gonna buy me dinner, Seb?” Fisk asked as they passed a noodle stall.
Seb shook his head. “No. I have to get this to the Russians now. Then we can eat. Wait at my place and–”
Fisk sighed and grabbed the envelope. Then he tucked it into his hoodie and frowned. “I’ll take it to them. Go home and rest. Better yet, cook me something. Salmon, if you have any.”
A drop of rain ran down Seb’s smooth cheek, and his green eyes widened. Did Fisk look that young and innocent? They were only twenty-two. How come he felt about ten years older?
“No. It’s my debt, and I’ll pay it off. I just needed you to get this for me. I can handle the rest.”
There Seb went being a stubborn jackass again. Fisk grabbed his brother’s shoulders and squeezed. “Salmon. Grilled. With a little wedge of lemon on the side.”
“You’ll have to settle for a tuna sandwich with a pickle,” Seb muttered.
Fisk smiled at the frown on his twin’s lips. “Done. Now go home. And no more gambling. Seriously, what the hell possessed you to borrow from the Russians? They’re crazy! And huge!”
Seb pulled his shoulders free and shook his head. “Even I make bad decisions from time to time. I know this is the only reason you came back, and I’m grateful. Are you sure you’ll be okay?”
That stung more than Fisk wanted to let on. He hadn’t come back to Haven since dad ran off with the cash from the last job. He hadn’t been around to take care of Seb, and he abandoned his own brother like their dad abandoned them. Fisk shrugged. “If they don’t try to eat me, yeah. I’ll be fine.”
With one final nod, Seb hailed a cab. Fisk walked in the opposite direction, his mouth watering. He hoped Seb’s tuna wasn’t expired.
Haven City didn’t have a Russian town, officially, but most of the immigrants lived in the neighborhoods near the river or in the bear shifter territory in Felony Flats. The Russians ran about half of the trade on the coast, probably smuggling drugs. As far as Fisk knew, the Russians and the Triad ran the docks, splitting the territory down the middle.
Seb did mention the Flats had fewer gangs in the last couple years. Same amount of violence though. When the small time gangs moved out, the bigger and more dangerous shifter gangs moved in.
And now that Fisk was back, Seb got them into a situation where they were stretched between the Russians and the Triad like meat on a hook. But who the hell was Fisk to talk about bad decisions when they both took over the family business?
At least that’s what was supposed to happen, until Fisk skipped town.
If he hadn’t left Seb on his own, none of this would’ve happened.
The Peterhof nightclub stood next to the river. The stench of rotten fish filled the air, and Fisk slipped his hands into his pockets and squared his shoulders. A camera was tucked into the shadows, and he pulled the hood around his face. He didn’t need a record of his visit here.
Dealing with bear shifters wasn’t his idea of a fun night out, but Seb didn’t leave him much of a choice. What if they cut off one of his twin’s fingers to make a point? Or one of Fisk’s own fingers. . . .
Like usual, he didn’t think things through. He just jumped in and hoped for the best. Once he was sure Seb was safe, he’d get the hell out of Haven again and back to his old life. Back to running away – it was easier than standing still.
The bouncers at the door (whom Fisk affectionately nicknamed Big and Stupid) reeked of vodka and sweat, and they both towered over Fisk by more than a head. He was used to it. Cat shifters weren’t known for their great stature, and he was smaller than most. At least he could slip in and out of places easily. And he was faster than a damn bear.
He gave Big and Stupid his best sheepish smile. “I’m here to see the Czar. Vlad?” Hopefully, these two were familiar enough with Seb to mistake Fisk for his brother.
Everyone else did.
Big sniffed the air. “Kitty shifter, all right. Upstairs.”
Stupid opened the door.
Fisk let out a slow breath. He was in. That was always the easy part. He clomped up the stairs, letting each footstep announce his arrival. He didn’t usually walk like that, but the Russians didn’t need to know how quiet he could be if needed.
The music from the club pounded below his feet. Some Euro trash techno that was more sound than actual music. The beat of the bass was as quick as his own heart.
Fisk swallowed and stepped into Vlad’s office. It was one of those grubby backrooms with an oversized desk, a fading poster of the Communist hammer and sickle on the wall, and a leak in the corner of the ceiling. The Russians obviously didn’t care about building codes.
The bear shifter raised his eyes, as dark as night, from his work. Vlad’s bulk dwarfed his worn leather chair.
“I got the envelope from the Tiger Triad,” Fisk said, patting his chest so the paper crinkled under his hoodie.
“Good. Give it to me,” Vlad said with a low rumble. The bear’s face was like a blank canvas.
Fisk didn’t pull out the envelope. “I want proof that you’ll forgive my debt for this. No more loan sharks. No more shifters disturbing my business.”
The bear shifter raised his thick eyebrows. His massive shoulders flexed as he stood. “I already gave you my word. Is this not good enough?”
“No. I want it in writing. And signed,” Fisk said.
Vlad laughed. It shook his entire frame. “In writing. Are you giving me orders, kitty?”
Shit. Tread carefully around them! At least bear shifters were slow. If Vlad attacked, Fisk could probably make it to the door first. Getting out of the building wouldn’t be as simple.
“No. But I know how your gang works. I want this to be the last time we do business together. A clean cut.”
“Fine. This will be our last business deal, Thomas. Let me see the envelope.”
Fisk smiled at the name. He and Seb used an alias, Thomas Booker, for all their business dealings. Most of their associates didn’t even know Thomas was two separate people.
He set the envelope on the desk and held his breath. He’d looked at it on the way over, but it was some kind of formula that didn’t make sense to him. Too bad he dropped out of high school before he took chemistry.
Vlad fingered through the papers and grinned. His yellow teeth caught the light, and Fisk frowned at the size of the man’s canines. If they got a hold of a cat. . . .
“Well?”
“This is good. Yes. This is very, very good. You’ve almost paid off your debt.”
Fisk stiffened.
Motherfucker.
This is just what he was afraid of. Good thing he came in Seb’s place. “Almost? But you said I needed to steal this from the Triad and that was it. No more payments.”
The bear sneered. “I did say that. But . . . I lied. Now that you got me what I want, I don’t want you to tell the Tigers I have it. That would be no good. No good at all.”
Fisk stepped backwards. The closer he was to the door, the faster he could get away. Why didn’t that bastard’s office have any windows? “I – I won’t tell anyone. Promise.”
Vlad laughed. “I can’t take the word of a gambler. You promise but you don’t deliver. I don’t take promises.”
The door creaked open and two large hands grasped Fisk’s shoulders. It was either Big or Stupid – not that it mattered now. He couldn’t fight off two bear shifters.
“So you’re going to kill me?” Fisk squeaked. How much money did Seb borrow from these fuckers?
The bear shook his head. “Kill you? No. You’re too valuable to kill. I’m going to sell you. Take him to the cage.”
What the hell was the cage?
August 10, 2013
Cover Reveal: Thief (Black Wolves Book One) Haven City Series
Thanks to everyone who entered the Goodreads giveaway for Crash! I sent the winning books out last week. Congrats to the winners ^_^
I'm almost done writing my new book, Thief (Black Wolves Book One). It's the third installment in the Haven City Series, and includes a whole new set of characters (with cameos from some of the originals like Seth and Conner ^_^).
Fisk is a cat shifter and a thief. While pulling a job to get his twin brother out of trouble with the Russian gangs, Fisk is captured and sold into sex slavery. Lucky him, the most dangerous shifter gang in town buys him: the Black Wolves.
When the gang's beta wolf and chief enforcer, Breaker, realizes Fisk stole something important from the gang several years before, they force the cat shifter to work for them. The Black Wolves have a dangerous plan, and they need someone as skilled as Fisk to help them carry it out.
Breaker has always been nothing but loyal to his alpha, Ian Black, and their pack. But Fisk wakes a desire Breaker's never known. The only problem is his best friend and alpha, Ian, is more than interested in Fisk too.
So there's action, themes of loyalty and some menage stuff as well. Who doesn't want to read about a cat shifter torn between the passion of two sexy wolves (who just happen to be dangerous gangsters)?
And, finally, the cover:
The expected release date is September 3, 2013!
I'm almost done writing my new book, Thief (Black Wolves Book One). It's the third installment in the Haven City Series, and includes a whole new set of characters (with cameos from some of the originals like Seth and Conner ^_^).
Fisk is a cat shifter and a thief. While pulling a job to get his twin brother out of trouble with the Russian gangs, Fisk is captured and sold into sex slavery. Lucky him, the most dangerous shifter gang in town buys him: the Black Wolves.
When the gang's beta wolf and chief enforcer, Breaker, realizes Fisk stole something important from the gang several years before, they force the cat shifter to work for them. The Black Wolves have a dangerous plan, and they need someone as skilled as Fisk to help them carry it out.
Breaker has always been nothing but loyal to his alpha, Ian Black, and their pack. But Fisk wakes a desire Breaker's never known. The only problem is his best friend and alpha, Ian, is more than interested in Fisk too.
So there's action, themes of loyalty and some menage stuff as well. Who doesn't want to read about a cat shifter torn between the passion of two sexy wolves (who just happen to be dangerous gangsters)?
And, finally, the cover:
The expected release date is September 3, 2013!
July 18, 2013
Win another free book: Crash Goodreads Giveaway
Wow. Crash has been my fastest bestselling book so far. I'm so excited! I felt like I was taking a risk with the flashback chapters, and I really thought people might think it was too weird (or too dark). My poor beta readers had to listen to me complain about it for ages.
"Everyone is going to hate it!" I'd say.
"You're being stupid," they'd respond.
They were right, and I couldn't be happier!
Right now I'm working on two books. Fox & Hound, Russell and Coop's story, and the third Haven City series book. It features a wolf shifter gang and a cat shifter thief. After how mean the cats were in Crash, I needed to make a cat shifter hero for once. Even if he is a thief.
Currently, I'm running another Goodreads giveaway for Crash. You'll need a Goodreads account or a Facebook account to enter. The winners get an autographed print copy of the book. It ends July 31, 2013.
Good luck ^_^
"Everyone is going to hate it!" I'd say.
"You're being stupid," they'd respond.
They were right, and I couldn't be happier!
Right now I'm working on two books. Fox & Hound, Russell and Coop's story, and the third Haven City series book. It features a wolf shifter gang and a cat shifter thief. After how mean the cats were in Crash, I needed to make a cat shifter hero for once. Even if he is a thief.
Currently, I'm running another Goodreads giveaway for Crash. You'll need a Goodreads account or a Facebook account to enter. The winners get an autographed print copy of the book. It ends July 31, 2013.
Good luck ^_^
.goodreadsGiveawayWidget { color: #555; font-family: georgia, serif; font-weight: normal; text-align: left; font-size: 14px;
font-style: normal; background: white; }
.goodreadsGiveawayWidget img { padding: 0 !important; margin: 0 !important; }
.goodreadsGiveawayWidget a { padding: 0 !important; margin: 0; color: #660; text-decoration: none; }
.goodreadsGiveawayWidget a:visted { color: #660; text-decoration: none; }
.goodreadsGiveawayWidget a:hover { color: #660; text-decoration: underline !important; }
.goodreadsGiveawayWidget p { margin: 0 0 .5em !important; padding: 0; }
.goodreadsGiveawayWidgetEnterLink { display: block; width: 150px; margin: 10px auto 0 !important; padding: 0px 5px !important;
text-align: center; line-height: 1.8em; color: #222; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold;
border: 1px solid #6A6454; border-radius: 5px; font-family:arial,verdana,helvetica,sans-serif;
background-image:url(https://www.goodreads.com/images/layo... background-repeat: repeat-x; background-color:#BBB596;
outline: 0; white-space: nowrap;
}
.goodreadsGiveawayWidgetEnterLink:hover { background-image:url(https://www.goodreads.com/images/layo...
color: black; text-decoration: none; cursor: pointer;
}
Goodreads Book Giveaway
Crash
by Zoe Perdita
Giveaway ends July 31, 2013.
See the giveaway details
at Goodreads.
Enter to win
July 2, 2013
Crash (Westside Wolf Pack) Released!
Hey everyone!
Crash is now out on all sites.
Here's the blurb:
Ben Singer, an omega werewolf, has been in love with his former best friend and the alpha scion of their wolf pack, Axel, from the time they were teenagers. Ben thought they were mates, but the rules of their pack kept them apart.
Axel Cross is a fuck-up. The sexy tattooed wolf threw away his chances of ever becoming pack alpha at seventeen, and Ben has no idea why.
When Axel’s uncle kicks Ben out of their Pittsburgh pack, it’s the chance the omega has been waiting for. Then Axel demands to accompany the smaller wolf. The only problem is Ben wants to run away for good – away from the pack Axel’s uncle decided the omega should join and away from Axel.
But Axel doesn’t take ‘no’ for an answer. He’s determined to go with Ben, even if the omega doesn’t want him around.
While desire stirs between Axel and Ben, years of heartache haunt them. Can the alpha and omega let go of their past and the old pack in order to find a bright new future together?
Warning: Contains graphic m/m sex scenes.
Get it here:
Amazon
Barnes and Noble
Kobo
All Romance
Crash is now out on all sites.
Here's the blurb:
Ben Singer, an omega werewolf, has been in love with his former best friend and the alpha scion of their wolf pack, Axel, from the time they were teenagers. Ben thought they were mates, but the rules of their pack kept them apart.
Axel Cross is a fuck-up. The sexy tattooed wolf threw away his chances of ever becoming pack alpha at seventeen, and Ben has no idea why.
When Axel’s uncle kicks Ben out of their Pittsburgh pack, it’s the chance the omega has been waiting for. Then Axel demands to accompany the smaller wolf. The only problem is Ben wants to run away for good – away from the pack Axel’s uncle decided the omega should join and away from Axel.
But Axel doesn’t take ‘no’ for an answer. He’s determined to go with Ben, even if the omega doesn’t want him around.
While desire stirs between Axel and Ben, years of heartache haunt them. Can the alpha and omega let go of their past and the old pack in order to find a bright new future together?
Warning: Contains graphic m/m sex scenes.
Get it here:
Amazon
Barnes and Noble
Kobo
All Romance
July 1, 2013
Crash (Westside Wolf Pack) Print Cover Preview
Wow! It's been a busy, hot day for me *shakes fist at the weather* but I got a lot done. Crash will be live on Amazon, Barnes and Noble and Kobo tomorrow, let's hope. It's already up on All Romance.
I'm always nervous when releasing a new book. What if everyone hates this one? Well, I'm going to bury myself in new work to get my mind off it.
And here's a look at the print cover for Crash. Enjoy!
I'm always nervous when releasing a new book. What if everyone hates this one? Well, I'm going to bury myself in new work to get my mind off it.
And here's a look at the print cover for Crash. Enjoy!
June 29, 2013
Crash (Westside Wolf Pack) Chapter One Sneak Peek!
Hey everyone!
I'm back from my trip to Colorado. It was long and tiring, but I got a lot of ideas while I was there. I'm finishing up the final polish on Crash (West Side Wolf Pack), and it will be out by this Tuesday, July 2nd.
Here's a look at the first chapter. I'll also send out a peek at the second chapter of Crash to my mailing list after the book comes out on Tuesday.
Enjoy!
1
Now
Axel Cross’s middle name was fuck-up. Or it should’ve been. Instead it was something else, William, Ben remembered, as he stepped out of his car and looked at the bar hunched on the corner of the street. Axel was the last person Ben should’ve wanted to see on his final night in town; so, of course, he was first on the omega’s very short list.The music from The Den thumped all the way out onto the street – the steady beat of the bass line rocking under Ben’s sneakers. He smoothed his hands over his button-up shirt (thrifted J. Crew), and took a deep breath before he stepped closer. A few of the patrons on the street eyed the small wolf, like they always did, and Ben fought the knot in his stomach that told him he didn’t belong here. It was just like walking past the cool kids in high school; only he’d graduated five years ago. How did that same sensation overtake him after all this time? Well, he didn’t seem like the type to hang out in places like this. With a freshly laundered shirt (classic white with blue stripes) and those jeans that fit his slender frame perfectly, he looked like he should be headed to work, not into a seedy bar on the wrong side of Pittsburg. Then again, as far as Ben was concerned, Pittsburg didn’t have a right side. As he neared the door, Cary Lewis slipped in front of it. She looked worse than she had senior year. Her blonde hair was messy and eyeliner smudged her eyes so she looked like a raccoon. Yeah, she was all kinds of classy – for a meth head. Ben plastered a smile on his face and shoved his hands into his pockets. “Cary. Long time. You look well.”Her eyes drooped, and she smiled. “Hey, Benny Boy. Whatcha doing over here? Haven’t seen you at the Den in a while. You looking for something?” Her fingers wandered between her breasts. The black bra peeked out from under the white tank top, leaving nothing to the imagination – if Ben’s imagination turned in that direction, which it didn't. “Not you, honey,” he said and reached for the door. “Oh, fuck! You’re a faggot, aren’t you? Good luck in there. You’d do better at the Hive, unless you wanna get your ass beat.”Ben ignored her as he walked inside and flashed his I.D. at the bouncer. She didn’t know any better, and she was as high as the fucking moon at the moment. Plus, she didn’t understand the truth. Most humans didn’t. The music wasn’t as loud inside as it sounded from the street, but the beat of the bass still rocked his every step. He didn't recognize the song. It sounded more like screaming than actual music, but the regulars didn’t seem to mind. No one even looked up when he stepped in, and Ben fought the urge to wrinkle his nose. How did Daniel stand the stench? Unwashed bodies, smoke and the astringent reek of alcohol filled the stale air, undercut by the vague smell of Pine Sol and vomit. Lovely. Ben scanned the crowd, keeping his face as neutral as possible. He was just looking around, trying to find his brother. He was not hoping to catch one last glimpse of Axel – not at all. Even if it may be the last time Ben would ever see his former friend. It was for the best that the omega was leaving town, but one final look couldn’t hurt.Then he spotted Axel at the pool table in the corner. Yeah, Ben really should’ve known that’s where he’d be. Axel leaned against his cue, his taut, muscular arms covered in tattoos. The taller wolf watched his opponent take a turn, his bright amber eyes scanning the table as his tongue played with the ring on his bottom lip. That was new – at least Axel hadn’t had it the last time Ben saw him about five months before. The alpha scion was dressed in all black, a wife beater and jeans with a pair of grubby Converse on his feet. High tops, naturally. The sight of him knocked the breath from Ben’s lungs, and the omega tried not to stare. Then Axel stood up straight and leaned over the table. The light reflected off the edge of his hair, and it burned like it was on fire. He narrowed his eyes as he took the shot, pocketing three balls at once. When he looked up, he caught Ben’s eye and they stared at each other for a long moment. All the sounds in the Den faded, as if just the two of them existed. Then Axel’s eyes narrowed into a glare. Ben smiled and put his hand up. Why not? He didn’t have anything left to lose since he was as good as gone. Even if Axel hated Ben now, there was a time he hadn’t. There was a time they’d been best friends, even if it seemed like ages ago. Axel was the first to break eye contact. He took a long swig of his beer and moved to the other side of the pool table, putting his perfect ass in full view. Ben sighed and tore his own gaze away. He came here to see Daniel, not to pine over guys he couldn’t have. A new song beat through the speakers as Ben strolled up to the bar. Daniel must’ve caught his scent, because he turned immediately and a grin spread over his lips. They looked alike, everyone always said, but Ben didn’t see it. Daniel was at least four inches taller, and he was built like a bull. If they’d been in a smaller city, he was the type who could easily reach beta or even alpha status. On the other hand, Ben looked like a sketch of his older brother. Sure they both had the same dark hair and bright blue eyes, but Ben was slight where Daniel was strong. Short where Daniel was tall, and pretty where Daniel was handsome. “You made it! Ma said you’d try if you weren’t too busy.”Ben glanced at the bar littered with crumbs and spilt beer and decided to keep his hands in his pockets. “I’d always make time for you.”Especially since Ben had no idea when he’d be back – maybe never, if things worked out the way the omega wanted. Daniel nodded and grabbed a beer, popping the top. “On the house, kid,” he said and his eyes misted over. For a big guy, he sure got emotional easily. “You know we all wish there was another way.”Ben nodded and schooled his face into a neutral expression. If he looked too happy they’d know how the new turn of events thrilled him more than upset him – and letting on how he longed to be free of the stifling wolf pack he’d lived under his whole life, wouldn’t go over well. Magnus might even change his mind. “I know. Ma keeps telling me the same thing.”Daniel nodded and swiped a wet cloth over the bar. “And dad? What’d he say?”Ben shrugged at his older brother. “He thinks it’s bullshit and says I should stay with the family because my mate should be local. No member of the pack has left this territory in a hundred years, or something like that.”The grin returned to Daniel’s face, and he chuckled. “Sounds like him. He’s just worried about you. We all are. What if the Baton Rouge pack isn’t as friendly as Magnus claims?”“It’s not like it could be worse over there than it is here.” Ben was already an omega. They couldn’t rank him any lower – if the smaller wolf went to Baton Rouge to begin with, which he wouldn’t. The alpha, Magnus, might want Ben to go, but it’s not like the man was going to take Ben there himself. “Guess not. I just don’t trust family of his, you know? He says they’re looking to expand and you’re welcome there, but they could have different rules. Plus, on account of the whole other thing – what if you can’t find a mate in that pack?”Ben raised his eyebrows. “You can just say I’m gay. It’s not going to hurt my feelings.”Daniel gave him a withering glance, and his eyes darted back and forth. Like someone could’ve heard them over the thud of the music. “Yeah, that.”“If they don’t have another fairy in the Baton Rouge pack, I guess I’ll have to turn someone. You straight guys all secretly wonder what it’s like on my side of the fence. Admit it!”Daniel chuckled at that. “Funny, kid. But you need to be careful down there. No one else will be around to protect you, and you’re not too good at protecting yourself.”He was talking about high school again, but he was right. It’s not like Ben could use any of his wolf strength on the guys who’d picked on him without looking suspicious. Nor did he want to. Fighting was so . . . messy. Plus, it was a big brother’s job to worry, even if it was unfounded. “I think I’ll be okay. I promise not to start any fights.”Daniel leaned on the bar and shook his head. “That’s not what I’m worried about. It’s that damn mouth of yours. You know, Magnus would let you stay if you were better at –”“Being an omega? I know. But Missy is better at it than I’d ever be, you can’t deny that.”His brother would never tell Ben to know his place, like their pack alpha often did. Daniel wasn’t like that and neither were their parents. It came from growing up in a family of strictly mid-ranked wolves. They didn’t live with an alpha or beta. Even if Ben was the omega, they never treated him like that at home. In some ways, his attitude was their fault, but he’d never tell them that either. “I guess,” Daniel said and a regular bumped against Ben in an effort to get to the bar. “Hey Danny, I need another one,” the man slurred. “Yeah? Well don’t knock my kid brother around to get it.”The guy glanced down at Ben, who smirked at him. “This is the little queer, right?”His older brother’s eyes burned like the blue at the center of a flame. With one swift movement, he grabbed the guy by the collar and yanked him across the bar, upsetting Ben’s untouched beer. The omega couldn’t help the grin that slipped over his lips. He might be aching to get away from Magnus and the weight of their city, but he’d miss Daniel. “Oh, you really shouldn’t have said that. He’s very protective.”“You gonna say that again?” Daniel growled. The drunk’s eyes lost focus, and he shook his head. “Sorry, man. I didn’t know.”“Didn’t know what? That he’s my brother or that I’d take offense to your name calling?”That seemed to be too complicated a subject for the guy to comprehend, and Daniel let the man stumble backwards. “Get the fuck out of here before I break something.”The drunk understood that, and Ben raised an eyebrow as the man slumped away. “Thanks, but I said I don’t mind. It’s my own fault, as Magnus always says.”Daniel pursed his lips. “It’s this neighborhood. Too bad you’re not joining a pack in San Francisco or something.”Ben snorted and stared at the toe of his shoe. No way Daniel could’ve figured out his plans, but it still hit too close to the truth for comfort. “Stereotype much?”His big brother shrugged. “New York?”“At least you didn’t say Chelsea. Look, I’d better get going. I have to finish packing, and I’m getting an early start.”The bigger wolf stepped around the bar and gripped Ben’s shoulders. “Dammit, kid. Wish I’d be home in time to see you off. Remember to call. And you can always come visit.”That’s not what the alpha said, but Ben didn’t bring it up. The less Daniel knew, the better. I don’t want to see your face in my territory again, omega. “Will do. Promise.”Then his big brother pulled him into a tight hug, and Ben swallowed the lies that had been choking him for years. In just a few more hours he’d be free of everything. Free of Magnus. Free of the cookie cutter houses and weed-ridden lawns in their neighborhood. Free of the rules of their pack. But most of all, he’d be free of Axel Cross. “Good luck,” Daniel said and gave the smaller wolf a misty-eyed smile when he leaned back. “You too,” Ben said and turned. He tried to keep his eyes focused on the exit, but they drifted back to the pool table regardless. Axel wasn’t there, and for a split second, Ben’s chest tightened. No. Don’t look around the bar for him. Just get the hell out of here, Ben told himself. As soon as he left Pittsburg, he’d never have to see Axel again. That’s exactly what he needed. The fresh air hit the omega’s face as he stepped outside, even if it was laced with cigarettes and weed. Cary wasn’t hanging around the entrance anymore. She must’ve found another guy who was looking for something. Some territory. Why the hell was Magnus so protective of this shithole?Shaking his head, Ben turned toward his car when he heard the familiar voice. It came from the side of the Den, and from the sound of footsteps there were probably a few other guys back there too. “I’ll have it next week,” Axel grumbled.“Maybe our boss wants it now,” another man said. Ben sniffed the air and caught a scent of feline under the piss and smoke. Making deals with were-cats seemed like something Axel Cross would do – way to make his pack proud. And Magnus chose to kick Ben out, of all people. Well, the omega couldn’t pretend he didn't know why. It was easier to get rid of the lowest ranked wolf than it was to get rid of the former alpha’s son. Plus, Axel was Magnus’s nephew. “Well your boss can wait.”“Say he doesn’t want to wait, what then, dog?” another man asked. Ben swallowed hard and tried to walk toward his car. He needed to leave this shit alone. Axel could take care of a few cats, and the omega wasn’t a fighter. But his feet didn’t listen to his brain. They turned and walked around the side of the bar, crunching over gravel and cigarette butts. Axel leaned against the wall, holding his own cigarette. He crossed his legs at the ankles, and his whole body was relaxed as if the guys in front of him didn’t matter. He was strong enough that they probably didn’t – he’d taken on worse in high school. Ben didn’t know what kind of guys Axel fought in juvie, but he knew they had to be tougher than a few were-cats.“Is this a private party or am I invited?” Ben asked and glanced at the three cats standing in front of his former best friend. Two were only slightly taller than Ben, probably about five feet nine. The third was around six feet and fat with a large belly hanging over his jeans. “What the hell is this? Another dog?”The look Axel cast him almost froze Ben in place. Had it been that long since they’d spoken? Guess so. “Wolf, actually. We’re not strays like you guys. But this looks like fun.”The fat one snorted. “We don’t have anything to say to you, dog. Now go chase your tail or some shit.”Axel pushed himself off the wall as Ben opened his mouth. “Get the hell out of here, omega, or I’ll beat the shit out of you myself. This is my business – not yours.”It was dark enough that Axel couldn’t see the color drain from Ben’s face. The were-cats snickered, but Ben ignored them and smirked at Axel. “No problem. It just looked like fun. I like four ways. Didn’t know you felt the same. Magnus would be proud.”If looks could cut through steel, the one Axel threw Ben would’ve. The wolf tossed his half-finished cigarette to the ground and the butt brightened in the night air before the alpha scion stepped on it. Ben’s heart slammed in his chest. He knew the other wolf heard it, but he didn’t step away. He stood his ground as Axel drew closer. Once they were about a foot apart, the taller man stopped and looked down. He towered over Ben’s slight frame by at least seven inches. Axel’s face was all smooth angles and perfection. The tail of a tattoo crawled up his pale neck. The omega swallowed again, this time willing his groin to calm the fuck down. “I’m leaving town tomorrow. Not that you care, I just thought I could get a goodbye kiss.”For a moment, Axel’s eyes widened. He didn’t know? Well, why should he? Not like Magnus was advertising the fact that he kicked Ben out of their pack – banishing him to another pack several states away. In that instant, Ben imagined he saw his old friend buried inside the angry wolf in front of him. Then Axel’s face hardened, and the glimpse was gone. “Good,” the taller wolf growled. “Now get the fuck out of here.”“So much for besties,” the omega said and turned toward his car. He couldn’t worry about Axel now – not that it ever did much good anyway. Ben silently chastised himself. How could he forget the truth? Axel was a fuck-up. And he didn’t even have the decency to be a gay fuck-up, something Ben could work with. Oh, and the worst truth of all – Axel hated Ben.
There wasn’t a damn thing the omega could do to fix that.
I'm back from my trip to Colorado. It was long and tiring, but I got a lot of ideas while I was there. I'm finishing up the final polish on Crash (West Side Wolf Pack), and it will be out by this Tuesday, July 2nd.
Here's a look at the first chapter. I'll also send out a peek at the second chapter of Crash to my mailing list after the book comes out on Tuesday.
Enjoy!
1
Now
Axel Cross’s middle name was fuck-up. Or it should’ve been. Instead it was something else, William, Ben remembered, as he stepped out of his car and looked at the bar hunched on the corner of the street. Axel was the last person Ben should’ve wanted to see on his final night in town; so, of course, he was first on the omega’s very short list.The music from The Den thumped all the way out onto the street – the steady beat of the bass line rocking under Ben’s sneakers. He smoothed his hands over his button-up shirt (thrifted J. Crew), and took a deep breath before he stepped closer. A few of the patrons on the street eyed the small wolf, like they always did, and Ben fought the knot in his stomach that told him he didn’t belong here. It was just like walking past the cool kids in high school; only he’d graduated five years ago. How did that same sensation overtake him after all this time? Well, he didn’t seem like the type to hang out in places like this. With a freshly laundered shirt (classic white with blue stripes) and those jeans that fit his slender frame perfectly, he looked like he should be headed to work, not into a seedy bar on the wrong side of Pittsburg. Then again, as far as Ben was concerned, Pittsburg didn’t have a right side. As he neared the door, Cary Lewis slipped in front of it. She looked worse than she had senior year. Her blonde hair was messy and eyeliner smudged her eyes so she looked like a raccoon. Yeah, she was all kinds of classy – for a meth head. Ben plastered a smile on his face and shoved his hands into his pockets. “Cary. Long time. You look well.”Her eyes drooped, and she smiled. “Hey, Benny Boy. Whatcha doing over here? Haven’t seen you at the Den in a while. You looking for something?” Her fingers wandered between her breasts. The black bra peeked out from under the white tank top, leaving nothing to the imagination – if Ben’s imagination turned in that direction, which it didn't. “Not you, honey,” he said and reached for the door. “Oh, fuck! You’re a faggot, aren’t you? Good luck in there. You’d do better at the Hive, unless you wanna get your ass beat.”Ben ignored her as he walked inside and flashed his I.D. at the bouncer. She didn’t know any better, and she was as high as the fucking moon at the moment. Plus, she didn’t understand the truth. Most humans didn’t. The music wasn’t as loud inside as it sounded from the street, but the beat of the bass still rocked his every step. He didn't recognize the song. It sounded more like screaming than actual music, but the regulars didn’t seem to mind. No one even looked up when he stepped in, and Ben fought the urge to wrinkle his nose. How did Daniel stand the stench? Unwashed bodies, smoke and the astringent reek of alcohol filled the stale air, undercut by the vague smell of Pine Sol and vomit. Lovely. Ben scanned the crowd, keeping his face as neutral as possible. He was just looking around, trying to find his brother. He was not hoping to catch one last glimpse of Axel – not at all. Even if it may be the last time Ben would ever see his former friend. It was for the best that the omega was leaving town, but one final look couldn’t hurt.Then he spotted Axel at the pool table in the corner. Yeah, Ben really should’ve known that’s where he’d be. Axel leaned against his cue, his taut, muscular arms covered in tattoos. The taller wolf watched his opponent take a turn, his bright amber eyes scanning the table as his tongue played with the ring on his bottom lip. That was new – at least Axel hadn’t had it the last time Ben saw him about five months before. The alpha scion was dressed in all black, a wife beater and jeans with a pair of grubby Converse on his feet. High tops, naturally. The sight of him knocked the breath from Ben’s lungs, and the omega tried not to stare. Then Axel stood up straight and leaned over the table. The light reflected off the edge of his hair, and it burned like it was on fire. He narrowed his eyes as he took the shot, pocketing three balls at once. When he looked up, he caught Ben’s eye and they stared at each other for a long moment. All the sounds in the Den faded, as if just the two of them existed. Then Axel’s eyes narrowed into a glare. Ben smiled and put his hand up. Why not? He didn’t have anything left to lose since he was as good as gone. Even if Axel hated Ben now, there was a time he hadn’t. There was a time they’d been best friends, even if it seemed like ages ago. Axel was the first to break eye contact. He took a long swig of his beer and moved to the other side of the pool table, putting his perfect ass in full view. Ben sighed and tore his own gaze away. He came here to see Daniel, not to pine over guys he couldn’t have. A new song beat through the speakers as Ben strolled up to the bar. Daniel must’ve caught his scent, because he turned immediately and a grin spread over his lips. They looked alike, everyone always said, but Ben didn’t see it. Daniel was at least four inches taller, and he was built like a bull. If they’d been in a smaller city, he was the type who could easily reach beta or even alpha status. On the other hand, Ben looked like a sketch of his older brother. Sure they both had the same dark hair and bright blue eyes, but Ben was slight where Daniel was strong. Short where Daniel was tall, and pretty where Daniel was handsome. “You made it! Ma said you’d try if you weren’t too busy.”Ben glanced at the bar littered with crumbs and spilt beer and decided to keep his hands in his pockets. “I’d always make time for you.”Especially since Ben had no idea when he’d be back – maybe never, if things worked out the way the omega wanted. Daniel nodded and grabbed a beer, popping the top. “On the house, kid,” he said and his eyes misted over. For a big guy, he sure got emotional easily. “You know we all wish there was another way.”Ben nodded and schooled his face into a neutral expression. If he looked too happy they’d know how the new turn of events thrilled him more than upset him – and letting on how he longed to be free of the stifling wolf pack he’d lived under his whole life, wouldn’t go over well. Magnus might even change his mind. “I know. Ma keeps telling me the same thing.”Daniel nodded and swiped a wet cloth over the bar. “And dad? What’d he say?”Ben shrugged at his older brother. “He thinks it’s bullshit and says I should stay with the family because my mate should be local. No member of the pack has left this territory in a hundred years, or something like that.”The grin returned to Daniel’s face, and he chuckled. “Sounds like him. He’s just worried about you. We all are. What if the Baton Rouge pack isn’t as friendly as Magnus claims?”“It’s not like it could be worse over there than it is here.” Ben was already an omega. They couldn’t rank him any lower – if the smaller wolf went to Baton Rouge to begin with, which he wouldn’t. The alpha, Magnus, might want Ben to go, but it’s not like the man was going to take Ben there himself. “Guess not. I just don’t trust family of his, you know? He says they’re looking to expand and you’re welcome there, but they could have different rules. Plus, on account of the whole other thing – what if you can’t find a mate in that pack?”Ben raised his eyebrows. “You can just say I’m gay. It’s not going to hurt my feelings.”Daniel gave him a withering glance, and his eyes darted back and forth. Like someone could’ve heard them over the thud of the music. “Yeah, that.”“If they don’t have another fairy in the Baton Rouge pack, I guess I’ll have to turn someone. You straight guys all secretly wonder what it’s like on my side of the fence. Admit it!”Daniel chuckled at that. “Funny, kid. But you need to be careful down there. No one else will be around to protect you, and you’re not too good at protecting yourself.”He was talking about high school again, but he was right. It’s not like Ben could use any of his wolf strength on the guys who’d picked on him without looking suspicious. Nor did he want to. Fighting was so . . . messy. Plus, it was a big brother’s job to worry, even if it was unfounded. “I think I’ll be okay. I promise not to start any fights.”Daniel leaned on the bar and shook his head. “That’s not what I’m worried about. It’s that damn mouth of yours. You know, Magnus would let you stay if you were better at –”“Being an omega? I know. But Missy is better at it than I’d ever be, you can’t deny that.”His brother would never tell Ben to know his place, like their pack alpha often did. Daniel wasn’t like that and neither were their parents. It came from growing up in a family of strictly mid-ranked wolves. They didn’t live with an alpha or beta. Even if Ben was the omega, they never treated him like that at home. In some ways, his attitude was their fault, but he’d never tell them that either. “I guess,” Daniel said and a regular bumped against Ben in an effort to get to the bar. “Hey Danny, I need another one,” the man slurred. “Yeah? Well don’t knock my kid brother around to get it.”The guy glanced down at Ben, who smirked at him. “This is the little queer, right?”His older brother’s eyes burned like the blue at the center of a flame. With one swift movement, he grabbed the guy by the collar and yanked him across the bar, upsetting Ben’s untouched beer. The omega couldn’t help the grin that slipped over his lips. He might be aching to get away from Magnus and the weight of their city, but he’d miss Daniel. “Oh, you really shouldn’t have said that. He’s very protective.”“You gonna say that again?” Daniel growled. The drunk’s eyes lost focus, and he shook his head. “Sorry, man. I didn’t know.”“Didn’t know what? That he’s my brother or that I’d take offense to your name calling?”That seemed to be too complicated a subject for the guy to comprehend, and Daniel let the man stumble backwards. “Get the fuck out of here before I break something.”The drunk understood that, and Ben raised an eyebrow as the man slumped away. “Thanks, but I said I don’t mind. It’s my own fault, as Magnus always says.”Daniel pursed his lips. “It’s this neighborhood. Too bad you’re not joining a pack in San Francisco or something.”Ben snorted and stared at the toe of his shoe. No way Daniel could’ve figured out his plans, but it still hit too close to the truth for comfort. “Stereotype much?”His big brother shrugged. “New York?”“At least you didn’t say Chelsea. Look, I’d better get going. I have to finish packing, and I’m getting an early start.”The bigger wolf stepped around the bar and gripped Ben’s shoulders. “Dammit, kid. Wish I’d be home in time to see you off. Remember to call. And you can always come visit.”That’s not what the alpha said, but Ben didn’t bring it up. The less Daniel knew, the better. I don’t want to see your face in my territory again, omega. “Will do. Promise.”Then his big brother pulled him into a tight hug, and Ben swallowed the lies that had been choking him for years. In just a few more hours he’d be free of everything. Free of Magnus. Free of the cookie cutter houses and weed-ridden lawns in their neighborhood. Free of the rules of their pack. But most of all, he’d be free of Axel Cross. “Good luck,” Daniel said and gave the smaller wolf a misty-eyed smile when he leaned back. “You too,” Ben said and turned. He tried to keep his eyes focused on the exit, but they drifted back to the pool table regardless. Axel wasn’t there, and for a split second, Ben’s chest tightened. No. Don’t look around the bar for him. Just get the hell out of here, Ben told himself. As soon as he left Pittsburg, he’d never have to see Axel again. That’s exactly what he needed. The fresh air hit the omega’s face as he stepped outside, even if it was laced with cigarettes and weed. Cary wasn’t hanging around the entrance anymore. She must’ve found another guy who was looking for something. Some territory. Why the hell was Magnus so protective of this shithole?Shaking his head, Ben turned toward his car when he heard the familiar voice. It came from the side of the Den, and from the sound of footsteps there were probably a few other guys back there too. “I’ll have it next week,” Axel grumbled.“Maybe our boss wants it now,” another man said. Ben sniffed the air and caught a scent of feline under the piss and smoke. Making deals with were-cats seemed like something Axel Cross would do – way to make his pack proud. And Magnus chose to kick Ben out, of all people. Well, the omega couldn’t pretend he didn't know why. It was easier to get rid of the lowest ranked wolf than it was to get rid of the former alpha’s son. Plus, Axel was Magnus’s nephew. “Well your boss can wait.”“Say he doesn’t want to wait, what then, dog?” another man asked. Ben swallowed hard and tried to walk toward his car. He needed to leave this shit alone. Axel could take care of a few cats, and the omega wasn’t a fighter. But his feet didn’t listen to his brain. They turned and walked around the side of the bar, crunching over gravel and cigarette butts. Axel leaned against the wall, holding his own cigarette. He crossed his legs at the ankles, and his whole body was relaxed as if the guys in front of him didn’t matter. He was strong enough that they probably didn’t – he’d taken on worse in high school. Ben didn’t know what kind of guys Axel fought in juvie, but he knew they had to be tougher than a few were-cats.“Is this a private party or am I invited?” Ben asked and glanced at the three cats standing in front of his former best friend. Two were only slightly taller than Ben, probably about five feet nine. The third was around six feet and fat with a large belly hanging over his jeans. “What the hell is this? Another dog?”The look Axel cast him almost froze Ben in place. Had it been that long since they’d spoken? Guess so. “Wolf, actually. We’re not strays like you guys. But this looks like fun.”The fat one snorted. “We don’t have anything to say to you, dog. Now go chase your tail or some shit.”Axel pushed himself off the wall as Ben opened his mouth. “Get the hell out of here, omega, or I’ll beat the shit out of you myself. This is my business – not yours.”It was dark enough that Axel couldn’t see the color drain from Ben’s face. The were-cats snickered, but Ben ignored them and smirked at Axel. “No problem. It just looked like fun. I like four ways. Didn’t know you felt the same. Magnus would be proud.”If looks could cut through steel, the one Axel threw Ben would’ve. The wolf tossed his half-finished cigarette to the ground and the butt brightened in the night air before the alpha scion stepped on it. Ben’s heart slammed in his chest. He knew the other wolf heard it, but he didn’t step away. He stood his ground as Axel drew closer. Once they were about a foot apart, the taller man stopped and looked down. He towered over Ben’s slight frame by at least seven inches. Axel’s face was all smooth angles and perfection. The tail of a tattoo crawled up his pale neck. The omega swallowed again, this time willing his groin to calm the fuck down. “I’m leaving town tomorrow. Not that you care, I just thought I could get a goodbye kiss.”For a moment, Axel’s eyes widened. He didn’t know? Well, why should he? Not like Magnus was advertising the fact that he kicked Ben out of their pack – banishing him to another pack several states away. In that instant, Ben imagined he saw his old friend buried inside the angry wolf in front of him. Then Axel’s face hardened, and the glimpse was gone. “Good,” the taller wolf growled. “Now get the fuck out of here.”“So much for besties,” the omega said and turned toward his car. He couldn’t worry about Axel now – not that it ever did much good anyway. Ben silently chastised himself. How could he forget the truth? Axel was a fuck-up. And he didn’t even have the decency to be a gay fuck-up, something Ben could work with. Oh, and the worst truth of all – Axel hated Ben.
There wasn’t a damn thing the omega could do to fix that.
Crash (West Side Wolf Pack) Chapter One Sneak Peek!
Hey everyone!
I'm back from my trip to Colorado. It was long and tiring, but I got a lot of ideas while I was there. I'm finishing up the final polish on Crash (West Side Wolf Pack), and it will be out by this Tuesday, July 2nd.
Here's a look at the first chapter. I'll also send out a peek at the second chapter of Crash to my mailing list after the book comes out on Tuesday.
Enjoy!
1
Now
Axel Cross’s middle name was fuck-up. Or it should’ve been. Instead it was something else, William, Ben remembered, as he stepped out of his car and looked at the bar hunched on the corner of the street. Axel was the last person Ben should’ve wanted to see on his final night in town; so, of course, he was first on the omega’s very short list.The music from The Den thumped all the way out onto the street – the steady beat of the bass line rocking under Ben’s sneakers. He smoothed his hands over his button-up shirt (thrifted J. Crew), and took a deep breath before he stepped closer. A few of the patrons on the street eyed the small wolf, like they always did, and Ben fought the knot in his stomach that told him he didn’t belong here. It was just like walking past the cool kids in high school; only he’d graduated five years ago. How did that same sensation overtake him after all this time? Well, he didn’t seem like the type to hang out in places like this. With a freshly laundered shirt (classic white with blue stripes) and those jeans that fit his slender frame perfectly, he looked like he should be headed to work, not into a seedy bar on the wrong side of Pittsburg. Then again, as far as Ben was concerned, Pittsburg didn’t have a right side. As he neared the door, Cary Lewis slipped in front of it. She looked worse than she had senior year. Her blonde hair was messy and eyeliner smudged her eyes so she looked like a raccoon. Yeah, she was all kinds of classy – for a meth head. Ben plastered a smile on his face and shoved his hands into his pockets. “Cary. Long time. You look well.”Her eyes drooped, and she smiled. “Hey, Benny Boy. Whatcha doing over here? Haven’t seen you at the Den in a while. You looking for something?” Her fingers wandered between her breasts. The black bra peeked out from under the white tank top, leaving nothing to the imagination – if Ben’s imagination turned in that direction, which it didn't. “Not you, honey,” he said and reached for the door. “Oh, fuck! You’re a faggot, aren’t you? Good luck in there. You’d do better at the Hive, unless you wanna get your ass beat.”Ben ignored her as he walked inside and flashed his I.D. at the bouncer. She didn’t know any better, and she was as high as the fucking moon at the moment. Plus, she didn’t understand the truth. Most humans didn’t. The music wasn’t as loud inside as it sounded from the street, but the beat of the bass still rocked his every step. He didn't recognize the song. It sounded more like screaming than actual music, but the regulars didn’t seem to mind. No one even looked up when he stepped in, and Ben fought the urge to wrinkle his nose. How did Daniel stand the stench? Unwashed bodies, smoke and the astringent reek of alcohol filled the stale air, undercut by the vague smell of Pine Sol and vomit. Lovely. Ben scanned the crowd, keeping his face as neutral as possible. He was just looking around, trying to find his brother. He was not hoping to catch one last glimpse of Axel – not at all. Even if it may be the last time Ben would ever see his former friend. It was for the best that the omega was leaving town, but one final look couldn’t hurt.Then he spotted Axel at the pool table in the corner. Yeah, Ben really should’ve known that’s where he’d be. Axel leaned against his cue, his taut, muscular arms covered in tattoos. The taller wolf watched his opponent take a turn, his bright amber eyes scanning the table as his tongue played with the ring on his bottom lip. That was new – at least Axel hadn’t had it the last time Ben saw him about five months before. The alpha scion was dressed in all black, a wife beater and jeans with a pair of grubby Converse on his feet. High tops, naturally. The sight of him knocked the breath from Ben’s lungs, and the omega tried not to stare. Then Axel stood up straight and leaned over the table. The light reflected off the edge of his hair, and it burned like it was on fire. He narrowed his eyes as he took the shot, pocketing three balls at once. When he looked up, he caught Ben’s eye and they stared at each other for a long moment. All the sounds in the Den faded, as if just the two of them existed. Then Axel’s eyes narrowed into a glare. Ben smiled and put his hand up. Why not? He didn’t have anything left to lose since he was as good as gone. Even if Axel hated Ben now, there was a time he hadn’t. There was a time they’d been best friends, even if it seemed like ages ago. Axel was the first to break eye contact. He took a long swig of his beer and moved to the other side of the pool table, putting his perfect ass in full view. Ben sighed and tore his own gaze away. He came here to see Daniel, not to pine over guys he couldn’t have. A new song beat through the speakers as Ben strolled up to the bar. Daniel must’ve caught his scent, because he turned immediately and a grin spread over his lips. They looked alike, everyone always said, but Ben didn’t see it. Daniel was at least four inches taller, and he was built like a bull. If they’d been in a smaller city, he was the type who could easily reach beta or even alpha status. On the other hand, Ben looked like a sketch of his older brother. Sure they both had the same dark hair and bright blue eyes, but Ben was slight where Daniel was strong. Short where Daniel was tall, and pretty where Daniel was handsome. “You made it! Ma said you’d try if you weren’t too busy.”Ben glanced at the bar littered with crumbs and spilt beer and decided to keep his hands in his pockets. “I’d always make time for you.”Especially since Ben had no idea when he’d be back – maybe never, if things worked out the way the omega wanted. Daniel nodded and grabbed a beer, popping the top. “On the house, kid,” he said and his eyes misted over. For a big guy, he sure got emotional easily. “You know we all wish there was another way.”Ben nodded and schooled his face into a neutral expression. If he looked too happy they’d know how the new turn of events thrilled him more than upset him – and letting on how he longed to be free of the stifling wolf pack he’d lived under his whole life, wouldn’t go over well. Magnus might even change his mind. “I know. Ma keeps telling me the same thing.”Daniel nodded and swiped a wet cloth over the bar. “And dad? What’d he say?”Ben shrugged at his older brother. “He thinks it’s bullshit and says I should stay with the family because my mate should be local. No member of the pack has left this territory in a hundred years, or something like that.”The grin returned to Daniel’s face, and he chuckled. “Sounds like him. He’s just worried about you. We all are. What if the Baton Rouge pack isn’t as friendly as Magnus claims?”“It’s not like it could be worse over there than it is here.” Ben was already an omega. They couldn’t rank him any lower – if the smaller wolf went to Baton Rouge to begin with, which he wouldn’t. The alpha, Magnus, might want Ben to go, but it’s not like the man was going to take Ben there himself. “Guess not. I just don’t trust family of his, you know? He says they’re looking to expand and you’re welcome there, but they could have different rules. Plus, on account of the whole other thing – what if you can’t find a mate in that pack?”Ben raised his eyebrows. “You can just say I’m gay. It’s not going to hurt my feelings.”Daniel gave him a withering glance, and his eyes darted back and forth. Like someone could’ve heard them over the thud of the music. “Yeah, that.”“If they don’t have another fairy in the Baton Rouge pack, I guess I’ll have to turn someone. You straight guys all secretly wonder what it’s like on my side of the fence. Admit it!”Daniel chuckled at that. “Funny, kid. But you need to be careful down there. No one else will be around to protect you, and you’re not too good at protecting yourself.”He was talking about high school again, but he was right. It’s not like Ben could use any of his wolf strength on the guys who’d picked on him without looking suspicious. Nor did he want to. Fighting was so . . . messy. Plus, it was a big brother’s job to worry, even if it was unfounded. “I think I’ll be okay. I promise not to start any fights.”Daniel leaned on the bar and shook his head. “That’s not what I’m worried about. It’s that damn mouth of yours. You know, Magnus would let you stay if you were better at –”“Being an omega? I know. But Missy is better at it than I’d ever be, you can’t deny that.”His brother would never tell Ben to know his place, like their pack alpha often did. Daniel wasn’t like that and neither were their parents. It came from growing up in a family of strictly mid-ranked wolves. They didn’t live with an alpha or beta. Even if Ben was the omega, they never treated him like that at home. In some ways, his attitude was their fault, but he’d never tell them that either. “I guess,” Daniel said and a regular bumped against Ben in an effort to get to the bar. “Hey Danny, I need another one,” the man slurred. “Yeah? Well don’t knock my kid brother around to get it.”The guy glanced down at Ben, who smirked at him. “This is the little queer, right?”His older brother’s eyes burned like the blue at the center of a flame. With one swift movement, he grabbed the guy by the collar and yanked him across the bar, upsetting Ben’s untouched beer. The omega couldn’t help the grin that slipped over his lips. He might be aching to get away from Magnus and the weight of their city, but he’d miss Daniel. “Oh, you really shouldn’t have said that. He’s very protective.”“You gonna say that again?” Daniel growled. The drunk’s eyes lost focus, and he shook his head. “Sorry, man. I didn’t know.”“Didn’t know what? That he’s my brother or that I’d take offense to your name calling?”That seemed to be too complicated a subject for the guy to comprehend, and Daniel let the man stumble backwards. “Get the fuck out of here before I break something.”The drunk understood that, and Ben raised an eyebrow as the man slumped away. “Thanks, but I said I don’t mind. It’s my own fault, as Magnus always says.”Daniel pursed his lips. “It’s this neighborhood. Too bad you’re not joining a pack in San Francisco or something.”Ben snorted and stared at the toe of his shoe. No way Daniel could’ve figured out his plans, but it still hit too close to the truth for comfort. “Stereotype much?”His big brother shrugged. “New York?”“At least you didn’t say Chelsea. Look, I’d better get going. I have to finish packing, and I’m getting an early start.”The bigger wolf stepped around the bar and gripped Ben’s shoulders. “Dammit, kid. Wish I’d be home in time to see you off. Remember to call. And you can always come visit.”That’s not what the alpha said, but Ben didn’t bring it up. The less Daniel knew, the better. I don’t want to see your face in my territory again, omega. “Will do. Promise.”Then his big brother pulled him into a tight hug, and Ben swallowed the lies that had been choking him for years. In just a few more hours he’d be free of everything. Free of Magnus. Free of the cookie cutter houses and weed-ridden lawns in their neighborhood. Free of the rules of their pack. But most of all, he’d be free of Axel Cross. “Good luck,” Daniel said and gave the smaller wolf a misty-eyed smile when he leaned back. “You too,” Ben said and turned. He tried to keep his eyes focused on the exit, but they drifted back to the pool table regardless. Axel wasn’t there, and for a split second, Ben’s chest tightened. No. Don’t look around the bar for him. Just get the hell out of here, Ben told himself. As soon as he left Pittsburg, he’d never have to see Axel again. That’s exactly what he needed. The fresh air hit the omega’s face as he stepped outside, even if it was laced with cigarettes and weed. Cary wasn’t hanging around the entrance anymore. She must’ve found another guy who was looking for something. Some territory. Why the hell was Magnus so protective of this shithole?Shaking his head, Ben turned toward his car when he heard the familiar voice. It came from the side of the Den, and from the sound of footsteps there were probably a few other guys back there too. “I’ll have it next week,” Axel grumbled.“Maybe our boss wants it now,” another man said. Ben sniffed the air and caught a scent of feline under the piss and smoke. Making deals with were-cats seemed like something Axel Cross would do – way to make his pack proud. And Magnus chose to kick Ben out, of all people. Well, the omega couldn’t pretend he didn't know why. It was easier to get rid of the lowest ranked wolf than it was to get rid of the former alpha’s son. Plus, Axel was Magnus’s nephew. “Well your boss can wait.”“Say he doesn’t want to wait, what then, dog?” another man asked. Ben swallowed hard and tried to walk toward his car. He needed to leave this shit alone. Axel could take care of a few cats, and the omega wasn’t a fighter. But his feet didn’t listen to his brain. They turned and walked around the side of the bar, crunching over gravel and cigarette butts. Axel leaned against the wall, holding his own cigarette. He crossed his legs at the ankles, and his whole body was relaxed as if the guys in front of him didn’t matter. He was strong enough that they probably didn’t – he’d taken on worse in high school. Ben didn’t know what kind of guys Axel fought in juvie, but he knew they had to be tougher than a few were-cats.“Is this a private party or am I invited?” Ben asked and glanced at the three cats standing in front of his former best friend. Two were only slightly taller than Ben, probably about five feet nine. The third was around six feet and fat with a large belly hanging over his jeans. “What the hell is this? Another dog?”The look Axel cast him almost froze Ben in place. Had it been that long since they’d spoken? Guess so. “Wolf, actually. We’re not strays like you guys. But this looks like fun.”The fat one snorted. “We don’t have anything to say to you, dog. Now go chase your tail or some shit.”Axel pushed himself off the wall as Ben opened his mouth. “Get the hell out of here, omega, or I’ll beat the shit out of you myself. This is my business – not yours.”It was dark enough that Axel couldn’t see the color drain from Ben’s face. The were-cats snickered, but Ben ignored them and smirked at Axel. “No problem. It just looked like fun. I like four ways. Didn’t know you felt the same. Magnus would be proud.”If looks could cut through steel, the one Axel threw Ben would’ve. The wolf tossed his half-finished cigarette to the ground and the butt brightened in the night air before the alpha scion stepped on it. Ben’s heart slammed in his chest. He knew the other wolf heard it, but he didn’t step away. He stood his ground as Axel drew closer. Once they were about a foot apart, the taller man stopped and looked down. He towered over Ben’s slight frame by at least seven inches. Axel’s face was all smooth angles and perfection. The tail of a tattoo crawled up his pale neck. The omega swallowed again, this time willing his groin to calm the fuck down. “I’m leaving town tomorrow. Not that you care, I just thought I could get a goodbye kiss.”For a moment, Axel’s eyes widened. He didn’t know? Well, why should he? Not like Magnus was advertising the fact that he kicked Ben out of their pack – banishing him to another pack several states away. In that instant, Ben imagined he saw his old friend buried inside the angry wolf in front of him. Then Axel’s face hardened, and the glimpse was gone. “Good,” the taller wolf growled. “Now get the fuck out of here.”“So much for besties,” the omega said and turned toward his car. He couldn’t worry about Axel now – not that it ever did much good anyway. Ben silently chastised himself. How could he forget the truth? Axel was a fuck-up. And he didn’t even have the decency to be a gay fuck-up, something Ben could work with. Oh, and the worst truth of all – Axel hated Ben.
There wasn’t a damn thing the omega could do to fix that.
I'm back from my trip to Colorado. It was long and tiring, but I got a lot of ideas while I was there. I'm finishing up the final polish on Crash (West Side Wolf Pack), and it will be out by this Tuesday, July 2nd.
Here's a look at the first chapter. I'll also send out a peek at the second chapter of Crash to my mailing list after the book comes out on Tuesday.
Enjoy!
1
Now
Axel Cross’s middle name was fuck-up. Or it should’ve been. Instead it was something else, William, Ben remembered, as he stepped out of his car and looked at the bar hunched on the corner of the street. Axel was the last person Ben should’ve wanted to see on his final night in town; so, of course, he was first on the omega’s very short list.The music from The Den thumped all the way out onto the street – the steady beat of the bass line rocking under Ben’s sneakers. He smoothed his hands over his button-up shirt (thrifted J. Crew), and took a deep breath before he stepped closer. A few of the patrons on the street eyed the small wolf, like they always did, and Ben fought the knot in his stomach that told him he didn’t belong here. It was just like walking past the cool kids in high school; only he’d graduated five years ago. How did that same sensation overtake him after all this time? Well, he didn’t seem like the type to hang out in places like this. With a freshly laundered shirt (classic white with blue stripes) and those jeans that fit his slender frame perfectly, he looked like he should be headed to work, not into a seedy bar on the wrong side of Pittsburg. Then again, as far as Ben was concerned, Pittsburg didn’t have a right side. As he neared the door, Cary Lewis slipped in front of it. She looked worse than she had senior year. Her blonde hair was messy and eyeliner smudged her eyes so she looked like a raccoon. Yeah, she was all kinds of classy – for a meth head. Ben plastered a smile on his face and shoved his hands into his pockets. “Cary. Long time. You look well.”Her eyes drooped, and she smiled. “Hey, Benny Boy. Whatcha doing over here? Haven’t seen you at the Den in a while. You looking for something?” Her fingers wandered between her breasts. The black bra peeked out from under the white tank top, leaving nothing to the imagination – if Ben’s imagination turned in that direction, which it didn't. “Not you, honey,” he said and reached for the door. “Oh, fuck! You’re a faggot, aren’t you? Good luck in there. You’d do better at the Hive, unless you wanna get your ass beat.”Ben ignored her as he walked inside and flashed his I.D. at the bouncer. She didn’t know any better, and she was as high as the fucking moon at the moment. Plus, she didn’t understand the truth. Most humans didn’t. The music wasn’t as loud inside as it sounded from the street, but the beat of the bass still rocked his every step. He didn't recognize the song. It sounded more like screaming than actual music, but the regulars didn’t seem to mind. No one even looked up when he stepped in, and Ben fought the urge to wrinkle his nose. How did Daniel stand the stench? Unwashed bodies, smoke and the astringent reek of alcohol filled the stale air, undercut by the vague smell of Pine Sol and vomit. Lovely. Ben scanned the crowd, keeping his face as neutral as possible. He was just looking around, trying to find his brother. He was not hoping to catch one last glimpse of Axel – not at all. Even if it may be the last time Ben would ever see his former friend. It was for the best that the omega was leaving town, but one final look couldn’t hurt.Then he spotted Axel at the pool table in the corner. Yeah, Ben really should’ve known that’s where he’d be. Axel leaned against his cue, his taut, muscular arms covered in tattoos. The taller wolf watched his opponent take a turn, his bright amber eyes scanning the table as his tongue played with the ring on his bottom lip. That was new – at least Axel hadn’t had it the last time Ben saw him about five months before. The alpha scion was dressed in all black, a wife beater and jeans with a pair of grubby Converse on his feet. High tops, naturally. The sight of him knocked the breath from Ben’s lungs, and the omega tried not to stare. Then Axel stood up straight and leaned over the table. The light reflected off the edge of his hair, and it burned like it was on fire. He narrowed his eyes as he took the shot, pocketing three balls at once. When he looked up, he caught Ben’s eye and they stared at each other for a long moment. All the sounds in the Den faded, as if just the two of them existed. Then Axel’s eyes narrowed into a glare. Ben smiled and put his hand up. Why not? He didn’t have anything left to lose since he was as good as gone. Even if Axel hated Ben now, there was a time he hadn’t. There was a time they’d been best friends, even if it seemed like ages ago. Axel was the first to break eye contact. He took a long swig of his beer and moved to the other side of the pool table, putting his perfect ass in full view. Ben sighed and tore his own gaze away. He came here to see Daniel, not to pine over guys he couldn’t have. A new song beat through the speakers as Ben strolled up to the bar. Daniel must’ve caught his scent, because he turned immediately and a grin spread over his lips. They looked alike, everyone always said, but Ben didn’t see it. Daniel was at least four inches taller, and he was built like a bull. If they’d been in a smaller city, he was the type who could easily reach beta or even alpha status. On the other hand, Ben looked like a sketch of his older brother. Sure they both had the same dark hair and bright blue eyes, but Ben was slight where Daniel was strong. Short where Daniel was tall, and pretty where Daniel was handsome. “You made it! Ma said you’d try if you weren’t too busy.”Ben glanced at the bar littered with crumbs and spilt beer and decided to keep his hands in his pockets. “I’d always make time for you.”Especially since Ben had no idea when he’d be back – maybe never, if things worked out the way the omega wanted. Daniel nodded and grabbed a beer, popping the top. “On the house, kid,” he said and his eyes misted over. For a big guy, he sure got emotional easily. “You know we all wish there was another way.”Ben nodded and schooled his face into a neutral expression. If he looked too happy they’d know how the new turn of events thrilled him more than upset him – and letting on how he longed to be free of the stifling wolf pack he’d lived under his whole life, wouldn’t go over well. Magnus might even change his mind. “I know. Ma keeps telling me the same thing.”Daniel nodded and swiped a wet cloth over the bar. “And dad? What’d he say?”Ben shrugged at his older brother. “He thinks it’s bullshit and says I should stay with the family because my mate should be local. No member of the pack has left this territory in a hundred years, or something like that.”The grin returned to Daniel’s face, and he chuckled. “Sounds like him. He’s just worried about you. We all are. What if the Baton Rouge pack isn’t as friendly as Magnus claims?”“It’s not like it could be worse over there than it is here.” Ben was already an omega. They couldn’t rank him any lower – if the smaller wolf went to Baton Rouge to begin with, which he wouldn’t. The alpha, Magnus, might want Ben to go, but it’s not like the man was going to take Ben there himself. “Guess not. I just don’t trust family of his, you know? He says they’re looking to expand and you’re welcome there, but they could have different rules. Plus, on account of the whole other thing – what if you can’t find a mate in that pack?”Ben raised his eyebrows. “You can just say I’m gay. It’s not going to hurt my feelings.”Daniel gave him a withering glance, and his eyes darted back and forth. Like someone could’ve heard them over the thud of the music. “Yeah, that.”“If they don’t have another fairy in the Baton Rouge pack, I guess I’ll have to turn someone. You straight guys all secretly wonder what it’s like on my side of the fence. Admit it!”Daniel chuckled at that. “Funny, kid. But you need to be careful down there. No one else will be around to protect you, and you’re not too good at protecting yourself.”He was talking about high school again, but he was right. It’s not like Ben could use any of his wolf strength on the guys who’d picked on him without looking suspicious. Nor did he want to. Fighting was so . . . messy. Plus, it was a big brother’s job to worry, even if it was unfounded. “I think I’ll be okay. I promise not to start any fights.”Daniel leaned on the bar and shook his head. “That’s not what I’m worried about. It’s that damn mouth of yours. You know, Magnus would let you stay if you were better at –”“Being an omega? I know. But Missy is better at it than I’d ever be, you can’t deny that.”His brother would never tell Ben to know his place, like their pack alpha often did. Daniel wasn’t like that and neither were their parents. It came from growing up in a family of strictly mid-ranked wolves. They didn’t live with an alpha or beta. Even if Ben was the omega, they never treated him like that at home. In some ways, his attitude was their fault, but he’d never tell them that either. “I guess,” Daniel said and a regular bumped against Ben in an effort to get to the bar. “Hey Danny, I need another one,” the man slurred. “Yeah? Well don’t knock my kid brother around to get it.”The guy glanced down at Ben, who smirked at him. “This is the little queer, right?”His older brother’s eyes burned like the blue at the center of a flame. With one swift movement, he grabbed the guy by the collar and yanked him across the bar, upsetting Ben’s untouched beer. The omega couldn’t help the grin that slipped over his lips. He might be aching to get away from Magnus and the weight of their city, but he’d miss Daniel. “Oh, you really shouldn’t have said that. He’s very protective.”“You gonna say that again?” Daniel growled. The drunk’s eyes lost focus, and he shook his head. “Sorry, man. I didn’t know.”“Didn’t know what? That he’s my brother or that I’d take offense to your name calling?”That seemed to be too complicated a subject for the guy to comprehend, and Daniel let the man stumble backwards. “Get the fuck out of here before I break something.”The drunk understood that, and Ben raised an eyebrow as the man slumped away. “Thanks, but I said I don’t mind. It’s my own fault, as Magnus always says.”Daniel pursed his lips. “It’s this neighborhood. Too bad you’re not joining a pack in San Francisco or something.”Ben snorted and stared at the toe of his shoe. No way Daniel could’ve figured out his plans, but it still hit too close to the truth for comfort. “Stereotype much?”His big brother shrugged. “New York?”“At least you didn’t say Chelsea. Look, I’d better get going. I have to finish packing, and I’m getting an early start.”The bigger wolf stepped around the bar and gripped Ben’s shoulders. “Dammit, kid. Wish I’d be home in time to see you off. Remember to call. And you can always come visit.”That’s not what the alpha said, but Ben didn’t bring it up. The less Daniel knew, the better. I don’t want to see your face in my territory again, omega. “Will do. Promise.”Then his big brother pulled him into a tight hug, and Ben swallowed the lies that had been choking him for years. In just a few more hours he’d be free of everything. Free of Magnus. Free of the cookie cutter houses and weed-ridden lawns in their neighborhood. Free of the rules of their pack. But most of all, he’d be free of Axel Cross. “Good luck,” Daniel said and gave the smaller wolf a misty-eyed smile when he leaned back. “You too,” Ben said and turned. He tried to keep his eyes focused on the exit, but they drifted back to the pool table regardless. Axel wasn’t there, and for a split second, Ben’s chest tightened. No. Don’t look around the bar for him. Just get the hell out of here, Ben told himself. As soon as he left Pittsburg, he’d never have to see Axel again. That’s exactly what he needed. The fresh air hit the omega’s face as he stepped outside, even if it was laced with cigarettes and weed. Cary wasn’t hanging around the entrance anymore. She must’ve found another guy who was looking for something. Some territory. Why the hell was Magnus so protective of this shithole?Shaking his head, Ben turned toward his car when he heard the familiar voice. It came from the side of the Den, and from the sound of footsteps there were probably a few other guys back there too. “I’ll have it next week,” Axel grumbled.“Maybe our boss wants it now,” another man said. Ben sniffed the air and caught a scent of feline under the piss and smoke. Making deals with were-cats seemed like something Axel Cross would do – way to make his pack proud. And Magnus chose to kick Ben out, of all people. Well, the omega couldn’t pretend he didn't know why. It was easier to get rid of the lowest ranked wolf than it was to get rid of the former alpha’s son. Plus, Axel was Magnus’s nephew. “Well your boss can wait.”“Say he doesn’t want to wait, what then, dog?” another man asked. Ben swallowed hard and tried to walk toward his car. He needed to leave this shit alone. Axel could take care of a few cats, and the omega wasn’t a fighter. But his feet didn’t listen to his brain. They turned and walked around the side of the bar, crunching over gravel and cigarette butts. Axel leaned against the wall, holding his own cigarette. He crossed his legs at the ankles, and his whole body was relaxed as if the guys in front of him didn’t matter. He was strong enough that they probably didn’t – he’d taken on worse in high school. Ben didn’t know what kind of guys Axel fought in juvie, but he knew they had to be tougher than a few were-cats.“Is this a private party or am I invited?” Ben asked and glanced at the three cats standing in front of his former best friend. Two were only slightly taller than Ben, probably about five feet nine. The third was around six feet and fat with a large belly hanging over his jeans. “What the hell is this? Another dog?”The look Axel cast him almost froze Ben in place. Had it been that long since they’d spoken? Guess so. “Wolf, actually. We’re not strays like you guys. But this looks like fun.”The fat one snorted. “We don’t have anything to say to you, dog. Now go chase your tail or some shit.”Axel pushed himself off the wall as Ben opened his mouth. “Get the hell out of here, omega, or I’ll beat the shit out of you myself. This is my business – not yours.”It was dark enough that Axel couldn’t see the color drain from Ben’s face. The were-cats snickered, but Ben ignored them and smirked at Axel. “No problem. It just looked like fun. I like four ways. Didn’t know you felt the same. Magnus would be proud.”If looks could cut through steel, the one Axel threw Ben would’ve. The wolf tossed his half-finished cigarette to the ground and the butt brightened in the night air before the alpha scion stepped on it. Ben’s heart slammed in his chest. He knew the other wolf heard it, but he didn’t step away. He stood his ground as Axel drew closer. Once they were about a foot apart, the taller man stopped and looked down. He towered over Ben’s slight frame by at least seven inches. Axel’s face was all smooth angles and perfection. The tail of a tattoo crawled up his pale neck. The omega swallowed again, this time willing his groin to calm the fuck down. “I’m leaving town tomorrow. Not that you care, I just thought I could get a goodbye kiss.”For a moment, Axel’s eyes widened. He didn’t know? Well, why should he? Not like Magnus was advertising the fact that he kicked Ben out of their pack – banishing him to another pack several states away. In that instant, Ben imagined he saw his old friend buried inside the angry wolf in front of him. Then Axel’s face hardened, and the glimpse was gone. “Good,” the taller wolf growled. “Now get the fuck out of here.”“So much for besties,” the omega said and turned toward his car. He couldn’t worry about Axel now – not that it ever did much good anyway. Ben silently chastised himself. How could he forget the truth? Axel was a fuck-up. And he didn’t even have the decency to be a gay fuck-up, something Ben could work with. Oh, and the worst truth of all – Axel hated Ben.
There wasn’t a damn thing the omega could do to fix that.
