Wolf Pack-Triad Mates

Beckett's Wolf Pack, Triad Mates

Laurie's Loves Alpha Jace Beckett is not willing to commit himself to a mate— even if his hold on humanity is quickly slipping away without the grounding presence of the final member of his triad. Jackson Scott is beta and triad partner to Jace. Jackson knows they both need that one woman to complete their triad, love them, and give them a future filled with tenderness, caring, and cubs. Laurie Young is their fated triad mate—a human who knows nothing of their world. They need her to accept their wolves and their mating. Her children would be theirs, and they would do everything to protect her from her abusive ex. They just have to convince her to stay with them and accept that they were fated to share a life together. She has to know that they loved and wanted her even before they realized she was carrying their baby. Note: This book contains double vaginal penetration. Note: There is no sexual relationship or touching for titillation between or among the men. Genre: Ménage a Trois/Quatre, Paranormal, Vampires/Werewolves Length: 107,312 words

LAURIE’S LOVES Beckett’s Wolf Pack, Triad Mates

Lynnette Bernard

MENAGE AND MORE

Siren Publishing, Inc. www.SirenPublishing.com

ABOUT THE E-BOOK YOU HAVE PURCHASED: Your non-refundable purchase of this e-book allows you to only ONE LEGAL copy for your own personal reading on your own personal computer or device. You do not have resell or distribution rights without the prior written permission of both the publisher and the copyright owner of this book. This book cannot be copied in any format, sold, or otherwise transferred from your computer to another through upload to a file sharing peer to peer program, for free or for a fee, or as a prize in any contest. Such action is illegal and in violation of the U.S. Copyright Law. Distribution of this e-book, in whole or in part, online, offline, in print or in any way or any other method currently known or yet to be invented, is forbidden. If you do not want this book anymore, you must delete it from your computer. WARNING: The unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this copyrighted work is illegal. Criminal copyright infringement, including infringement without monetary gain, is investigated by the FBI and is punishable by up to 5 years in federal prison and a fine of $250,000. If you find a Siren-BookStrand e-book being sold or shared illegally, please let us know at [email protected]

A SIREN PUBLISHING BOOK IMPRINT: Ménage and More

LAURIE’S LOVES Copyright © 2012 by Lynnette Bernard E-book ISBN: 1-61926-367-X First E-book Publication: March 2012 Cover design by Jinger Heaston All cover art and logo copyright © 2012 by Siren Publishing, Inc. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED: This literary work may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, including electronic or photographic reproduction, in whole or in part, without express written permission. All characters and events in this book are fictitious. Any resemblance to actual persons living or dead is strictly coincidental.

PUBLISHER Siren Publishing, Inc. www.SirenPublishing.com

Letter to Readers Dear Readers, If you have purchased this copy of Laurie’s Loves by Lynnette Bernard from BookStrand.com or its official distributors, thank you. Also, thank you for not sharing your copy of this book.

Regarding E-book Piracy This book is copyrighted intellectual property. No other individual or group has resale rights, auction rights, membership rights, sharing rights, or any kind of rights to sell or to give away a copy of this book. The author and the publisher work very hard to bring our paying readers high-quality reading entertainment. This is Lynnette Bernard’s livelihood. It’s fair and simple. Please respect Ms. Bernard’s right to earn a living from her work. Amanda Hilton, Publisher www.SirenPublishing.com www.BookStrand.com

DEDICATION This book is dedicated to a man who loved me unconditionally, who respected my opinions, my humor, and my intelligence, and who encouraged me to go for my dreams – my father. I love you, Daddy.

LAURIE’S LOVES Beckett’s Wolf Pack, Triad Mates LYNNETTE BERNARD Copyright © 2012

Chapter 1 This is not happening! Jace Beckett halted his advance on the group of guests as they exited the shuttle van to stand before the entrance of the Circle Three Ranch. He could smell her, damn it! He looked over the group of tourists with a critical eye. The last thing he needed right now was another complication in his life. The small group looked around with barely contained excitement. The new arrivals consisted of two newly married couples, a family of four, and four single bookings. He had looked over the list that morning. Once again, he had to push down his anger. He had finally allowed his beta to introduce this new addition to his ranch. Jackson had said that the vacation getaway would be an instant success. But Jace hadn’t wanted to open his pack to the dangers of what humans could do them. He should have known better. He did know better. And it pissed him off. Jackson, get your tail to the main entrance. Now! The anger in Jace’s voice was unmistakable. And he didn’t much care right then. Hell, he hoped his anger echoed in Jackson’s head and gave him a blinding headache. It would serve him right. Jace? What’s wrong? Jackson’s concerned voice entered Jace’s head, and he had a brief moment of sympathy for his beta. But only a brief moment.

Laurie’s Loves

9

He stalked toward the guests, staring down at them, unwilling to play the cordial host. It was not his nature to welcome outsiders to his ranch, putting his pack in jeopardy. What had he been thinking? “If you would all come inside and sign in, we’ll get you assigned to your room accommodations,” he told them gruffly. Reaching up to settle his black cowboy hat more securely atop his head, he looked them over with cool, hard eyes, the sky blue shade flashing briefly with anger as he tried to figure out which of the five women before him was the one who was sending his senses into overdrive. He scanned the group slowly, seeing the fear in their eyes as they looked up at him. Two of the women looked at him with definite interest, but he found no appeal in either their looks or their demeanor. They looked like every one of the women in town who had tried over the years to trap him with their lies and phoniness. He had long since realized that no woman could be trusted. They had only one thing in mind—using him to live a life of excess, with no thought of contribution to his life or his pack. Well, he wouldn’t let that happen. No woman was going to get him to take care of her for the rest of her life. He indicated the main entrance to the ranch and stepped back, watching the group as they made their way around him, obviously giving him a wide berth. He knew he was an intimidating bastard, and that made him immensely glad. His height of six feet five inches and his heavily muscled frame served to deter many would-be challengers to his position of alpha of one of the largest and strongest packs in Colorado. If his size and fighting skills didn’t deter the challengers, his disposition did. Outside packs were not willing to chance a physical challenge against him. He had proven himself an expert and strong fighter, a determined fighter, who would not back down. He never lost a challenge. He protected his pack members with a fierce loyalty and would do so until the day he took his last breath. But even this was not something he was willing to do. The guests walked up the front porch steps quickly, none of them even drawing any interest from him. He took in a deep breath, scenting her once again. The scent wasn’t coming from the group that had just passed him. His brow furrowed in confusion. He knew he scented her. Where was she? He turned and saw one woman standing to the left of the shuttle, struggling with luggage from a car that was obviously on its last leg, its

10

Lynnette Bernard

make more than ten years old. She was reaching into the trunk and pulling her overnight bag out, letting it fall to the ground before she reached back in to pull a larger suitcase to the edge. It tipped precariously, and she used her body to hold it against the back of the car, awkwardly trying to keep it from falling. Her desperation was obvious. Jace stepped forward, and in three long strides was by her side. Breathing in deeply, his heart raced. Her scent filled his lungs, and he barely contained the growl of possession that threatened to erupt from him. Damn, but her scent soothed him deep down to his very soul. Every bit of denial left him. There was no denying her. He wanted to reach out and pull her into his arms and never let her go. And that pissed him off more than anything. Instead, he reached forward and took the bag from her. He looked down at her, unable to do more than stare at the voluptuous beauty before him. She was beautiful in a way that nearly hurt him. She had curves in all the right places, and he wanted to touch every bit of her. He wanted to lay her out before him and feast on her. And he wanted her naked. Now. When she looked up at him and smiled openly, her large brown eyes bright with gratitude, his breath caught in his chest. How could that one small smile send him into such a tailspin? He struggled to fight down his wolf. Arguing with his wolf wasn’t an option right then. He pushed it down with every bit of strength that he had. “Thanks,” she told him sincerely, reaching out to take the bag from him. She stopped suddenly, and he saw her take in a deep breath. His heart raced, and he found himself holding his breath as he watched her close her eyes and take in his scent, and he had no doubt that she was doing just that. Damn it! There was no mistaking it. If she caught his scent and recognized that there was a difference, even though she didn’t understand it, he was doomed. “It’s really nice out here,” she told him finally, opening her eyes to look at him and smile, the softness of her eyes capturing his attention. He watched her silently as she took another deep breath and closed her eyes in satisfaction, but when she opened them again and looked up at him, he could sense her sadness. He had to take a step back from her and clutch his hands into fists at his sides to stop himself from reaching out and pulling her into the safety of his embrace and holding her until her sadness abated.

Laurie’s Loves

11

His wolf paced restlessly and demanded that he take her in his arms immediately and claim her. Before he even had a chance to decide how to handle his wolf or deny her as a man, she took a step away from him and tugged the large suitcase, along with her overnight bag, up the stairs. He watched her delectable ass as it swayed with each step she climbed, and fought back a growl as he envisioned grabbing onto the feminine flare of her hips as he plunged deep inside her warmth and lost himself in the feel of her wet and welcoming channel. The vision of his cock pumping in and out of her sweet pussy, spilling his seed deep inside her, flashed through his mind. The instant image of her filled with their child made his breath catch in his throat, bringing her delectable scent deep into his lungs once again. He mentally shook the vision out of his head, knowing that Jackson saw exactly what he had just envisioned. He could feel his triad partner’s confusion but was at a loss to do anything but follow the retreating form of the unsuspecting female with his eyes. He watched in stunned silence as the woman dragged her suitcases across the front porch, disappearing from sight without an ounce of flirtation. What the hell? Jace had never been more confused in his life. That little slip of a woman, with her beautifully expressive brown eyes, shoulderlength, dark brown hair, and a curvaceous body that he had an all consuming desire to feel beneath him while he plunged into her sweet warmth, had dismissed him without a thought. Jace! What’s going on? Jackson’s voice resounded in his head. He could sense Jackson’s concern as well as his anger. But underlying it all, he could feel the spike of desire Jackson felt when he had shared the erotic vision Jace had unwittingly sent to him. I found her. Jace’s voice sounded defeated as he spoke to the man who had been his best friend and second-in-command more years than he cared to remember. Who? Jackson’s voice held only confusion. Our mate.

12

Lynnette Bernard

Chapter 2 Jace followed the group into the visitors’ lodge. He made no attempt to hide his irritation as he watched the women of the group flirt with the other guests as well as with his men, who were standing just inside the doorway waiting for their alpha. Jace ignored them and stalked across the large foyer to oversee the check-in, realizing that he had automatically taken his place beside the woman whose destiny was meant to intertwine with his and Jackson’s. He could see that Janine watched him curiously from behind the long desk where she was checking in their guests, but he ignored her, concentrating instead on the woman he had an overwhelming urge to protect and care for. My brain is turning to mush! He was careful to shield his thoughts so that Jackson would not know the turmoil he was in. He would not give in to this. He had to fight it. “Welcome to the Circle Three Ranch,” the young woman at the counter welcomed each guest, smiling at them as they stepped forward. “My name is Janine, and I’d like to welcome you on behalf of the Beckett family. Please don’t hesitate to come to me with any questions or concerns.” Laurie smiled at the woman behind the counter. She was the perfect person to greet them. She was young, pretty, and outgoing. With beautiful blonde hair that curled slightly just below her shoulders, and vivid blue eyes, she was a heartbreaker and the type men drooled over. And she had the perfect body. Slim, with just the right size waist and proportions. Laurie was immediately intimidated by her. Always larger than other girls, she had lived a lifetime of insecurity that she was not the perfect petite person that every woman aspired to be. Laurie put her bags down beside her gently and patiently waited for her turn to check in. She looked around the lodge, feeling a sense of peace overcome her as she took in the comfortable, dark brown, overstuffed

Laurie’s Loves

13

couches and the huge fireplace that was surrounded by beautifully cut gray slate. She could picture sitting before it with the fire within burning hot and bright as she sat there lost in thought and finally relaxing. She could envision the snow falling outside and the warmth and coziness of the lodge embracing her. The flash of this place being her haven from the world was vivid in her mind’s eye. How she wished that was a real possibility. Jace watched her, unable to tear his gaze away from the woman who looked to be a thousand miles away. There was an overwhelming sadness that surrounded her, and he fought the urge to step forward and take her into his arms. Jackson, where the hell are you? He couldn’t keep the panic from his voice. I’m about five miles out. Jackson’s voice was soothing as always, but it did nothing for Jace at the moment. He was used to Jackson being the voice of reason, the one who listened and guided with an understanding that was typical of his beta personality. He needed his friend beside him right now. He couldn’t deal with this alone. Jackson, hurry. You need to deal with this. Jace clenched his teeth and fisted his hands by his sides as he heard Jackson’s chuckle in his head. He would have a serious talk with him later. “Miss Young?” Janine called to Laurie from behind the counter. Laurie pulled herself away from her silent thoughts and turned to face the young woman. She stepped toward her, smiling despite the melancholy that had gripped her. “Hi,” she said warmly as she stepped toward the counter. “You’re planning on staying for two weeks. Is that correct?” Janine asked her as she verified the information in the computer before her. “Yes,” Laurie answered, nodding and accepting the pen from the young woman to fill out and sign the guest card. Janine took the pen and card back from her and handed her the key to her room, along with a glossed piece of paper. “Here’s a flyer with the list of events this week. You’re welcome to attend any of them. I’m sure you’ll enjoy them.”

14

Lynnette Bernard

“Thank you,” Laurie said quietly, taking the paper and tucking it securely within her purse. She didn’t think she would be attending any events. She had come here to relax and maybe, if she were lucky, heal. “You’ll be in 5B,” Janine told her. “Down that hallway and to the left, third door on the left.” Laurie took the key from the girl and smiled warmly, happy that there would be no plastic electronic cards, just old fashioned keys and rustic surroundings. She wanted to lose herself in this vacation—her first in fifteen years. She hoped it would be just what she needed. She turned and bent down to pick up her overnight bag, hesitating when the hulk of a man that had helped her outside reached for it at the same time. Their hands touched briefly, and she pulled back immediately, afraid and unsure. It wasn’t his size that intimidated her. It was his looks. A man had no right to look that handsome. With midnight black hair that fell in waves to the top of his collar, soft blue eyes that sparkled with a clarity that unnerved her, and a face chiseled to perfection, he was a walking wet dream. And so out of my league. The unbidden thought raced through her brain. “Oh, that’s all right,” she told him quickly. “I have it.” Jace looked down at her and smiled despite his resolve to remain devoid of emotion. He pushed his hat up with his index finger and gently took her bag from her, a jolt of electricity shooting up his arm as her hand brushed his. “It’s all part of ranch services, ma’am,” he told her quietly, reaching down to grab her larger suitcase as well. “Lead the way.” Janine looked at her alpha in shock as he followed the woman down the hallway to her room. He turned back to look at her with such anger in his eyes that she looked down at the computer as quickly as she could to avoid his censure. She wasn’t going to mess with him today, if that look he just gave her was any indication of his mood. Jackson, we’re heading toward 5B. Get your ass here and do something. Laurie walked nervously toward her assigned room. She did not want this man anywhere near her. She wished he had just let her go to her room alone. She sighed audibly as she faced the door to 5B and reached out to unlock it, swinging the door open wide and stepping inside, aware that the giant of a man followed in behind her. She walked to the windows and

Laurie’s Loves

15

turned to watch him as he placed her bags on the floor in front of the double bed. When he straightened and looked at her, she felt a squeezing in her chest and had to shut her eyes briefly. He’ll only be here a little longer. The thought did little to help her nerves, and she struggled to calm her breathing. The wonderful smell that invaded her senses made her feel a sense of peace and belonging that she didn’t understand, and it scared her a little. And all that male gorgeousness before her wasn’t helping the situation either. “Thank you for your help,” she told him warmly, reaching to open her purse and take out her wallet to tip him. Jace shook his head and reached out to touch her hand lightly. The brief contact made her shiver slightly. “No need for that, Ms. Young,” he spoke quickly, stopping her and stepping back for fear that he would pull her into his arms before he could control his wolf. Laurie looked up at him and smiled, her eyes filling with sincere gratitude as she sighed and nodded. “Thank you, I appreciate it,” she told him honestly. “I’m Laurie.” She introduced herself, reaching out to offer him her hand. “Jace Beckett,” he answered, taking her hand in his, immediately feeling her warmth and caring, unable to stop the emotions that her touch pulled from him. “Nice to meet you, Jace,” she told him warmly as she smiled up at him, and she really did have to look up at him. Being five feet five inches tall, she was used to having to look up at men, but this mountain of a man was unbelievably tall and built like an Adonis. She couldn’t help the blush that crossed her cheeks as she looked up at him, quickly looking away shyly to study the carpet as she tried to pull herself together. Jace nodded, smiling as she pulled her soft hand from his, feeling the loss of her touch immediately. He removed his hat to hold it in his hands, turning the brim slightly before catching himself and stopping the nervous habit he hadn’t resorted to in more years than he cared to remember. This woman had already reduced him to a randy teenager. And he didn’t like it one bit. “Sorry to interrupt,” Jackson’s voice invaded their space as he entered the room, smiling openly at the woman Jace feared was destined to be theirs,

16

Lynnette Bernard

unable to stop himself from walking toward her. His wolf recognized her immediately. He looked at Jace and nodded. Mate. Jace felt his stomach tighten. He didn’t want to acknowledge it. He didn’t want to accept it. He had hoped he had been wrong. But Jackson knowing it the moment he walked into the room sealed their fate. Laurie Young was their mate. Laurie smiled at the man who entered the room, her breath catching at the sight of him. He was nearly as tall as Jace, with a body that rippled with muscles, but his hair was a deep brown that flowed in soft curls to his shoulders. His brown eyes held a mischievous sparkle to them, and she found herself smiling and stepping forward, drawn to him just as much as she was drawn to the serious man beside her. She closed her eyes momentarily, taking a deep breath to calm herself. Her forehead furrowed in confusion, and her eyes opened slowly to look at the two most gorgeous specimens of the male gender she had ever seen. “Do you smell that?” she asked of both men. “What?” Jackson asked, smiling as he gazed at her, transfixed by the gentleness that poured from her and already soothed his soul. He could barely contain himself. Goodness and kindness radiated from her, and he knew he and Jace had finally found the one who would complement them, love them, and be the gentle soul that would nurture their pack. “I’ve never smelled anything like it before, but it’s the most wonderful smell,” Laurie tried to explain, stepping closer toward the men without realizing it. “It’s stronger than before,” she told them, stopping suddenly when she realized just how close to the two men she had gotten. She stepped back and blushed, lowering her head to hide her total embarrassment. “I smell it, too,” Jace told her quietly, needing to ease her discomfort. He inhaled deeply, his eyes dilating with sudden passion and hunger. “I’ve never smelled that before either. It sure does smell great doesn’t it, big guy?” Jackson asked him, his voice filled with humor. Jace growled, fighting the attraction, fighting the proof, needing to deny with every ounce of his being that there was the most delicious scent linking them together. At Laurie’s light touch on his arm and the sound of her gentle laughter, his body couldn’t hold on to his denial. He found himself relaxing, enjoying her touch and her humor.

Laurie’s Loves

17

“At least it’s a good smell,” Laurie teased, smiling up at Jace briefly before turning to Jackson and winking good-naturedly. Jackson nodded and smiled at the two of them. He wanted nothing more than to reach out and hold this adorable woman in his arms, trapping her between him and Jace, smelling her, touching her, bonding with her. He had to make that happen. He knew Jace had no idea what to do. His friend was already losing his grip on his emotions. Laurie had come to them at the time that his alpha needed her the most. The Fates always knew what they were doing. Now it was up to him to help nudge their destiny along. “I’m Jackson Scott,” he told her, reaching forward and extending his hand, wanting to touch her more than he could have ever thought possible. Laurie smiled and reached out to shake his hand, feeling the warmth of his touch all the way down to her toes. What was it about these two men that pulled long-buried feelings of longing from her? She had to pull herself together. She couldn’t let her imagination and her secret desires lead her to the deep sorrow she knew she would feel when she realized once again that reality did not hold such things for her. “Laurie Young,” she told him, smiling softly as she gently pulled her hand from his. She hadn’t been touched in kindness for so long, she actually felt uncomfortable feeling it. And she couldn’t risk feeling the kindness only to have it disappear when she left, leaving her more alone and hurt than before. She had to be careful. “I’m sorry, Ms. Young,” Jackson told her quietly, shaking his head slightly at Jace as he turned his attention toward him, “but I’ve just been told that we’ve overbooked these next two weeks, and this room has already been assigned to another couple.” Laurie’s head snapped up. Panic filled her eyes at the thought that her vacation might end before it had even begun. Her shoulders sagged as she looked at both men sadly. Looking around the room, she was overcome with loss that this comfortable haven would not be hers. Once again, the reality of her life slammed into her, and she knew a sadness deep down to her bones. Tears welled up instantly, and the soft brown of her eyes filled with a deep sadness that tugged at the two men’s hearts as they saw the glistening of unshed tears that she fought to hold back.

18

Lynnette Bernard

“Please,” she said in a pained whisper. “I can’t go back home. I’ve waited forever for this vacation.” Jace stepped toward her, his wolf tearing at his chest as he fought to get out to comfort their woman. He took a steadying breath to calm his wolf, but the scent of her made him all the more determined to protect and cherish her. Fix this! He looked at Jackson with an anger that would have fallen any other man, but Jackson only smiled and reached out to gently brush the stray tear that slid down their mate’s cheek with the pad of this thumb. “Darlin’, don’t cry,” he told her soothingly. “You don’t have to leave. We just have to relocate you, is all.” Laurie smiled through her tears and took a soothing breath. “Really?” Jackson nodded and brushed his thumb across her cheek, closing his eyes briefly as the warmth from her soothed his heart. “We have to move you to the private compound. We have a room there for times just like these when we have an overflow of lodgers. You’ll have your own balcony that looks out over the ranch. You can even see the lake from there. And we’ll comp your stay to show you how sorry we are for the inconvenience.” “Oh, no,” Laurie protested. “You don’t have to do that.” “It would be our pleasure, darlin’,” Jackson told her, winking. “No arguing now. Let’s get you to your new room.” He reached forward and lifted the heavy bag, leaving the overnight bag for Jace to grab. Jace winced in pain as his shoulder twinged when he lifted the bag. “Are you all right?” Laurie asked him, reaching out to touch his arm lightly. Jace straightened slowly and looked down at her. There wasn’t one bit of deceit in this woman. She saw his pain and reacted to it with genuine concern and kindness. A picture of her massaging his shoulder flashed through his mind, and he saw Jackson turn toward him and smile knowingly. It wasn’t a fantasy. Both could sense the rightness of it. Laurie would be the one to give them caring and comfort. Even though both men knew that Jace’s shoulder would be totally healed by the evening, it didn’t stop them from knowing that she would ease their aches in both body and spirit. More than anything, they appreciated her genuine concern.

Laurie’s Loves

19

“I’m fine,” Jace told her calmly, unable to stop himself from scowling down at her. “No you’re not,” she told him quickly, ignoring his bad temper. “Your shoulder is hurting. Have you had someone look at it?” Jace straightened and looked down at her. He was amazed that she could pick up on his pain but even more surprised that her eyes held no fear when she looked up at him. His shoulder did hurt from his morning run when he had stumbled and had collided into a fallen tree. It angered him that things like that had been happening to him more and more lately. Jackson had told him that the reason he was having more difficulty containing his emotions in order to keep his anger in check, and was finding himself stumbling more often and nearly losing control of his wolf, was because they hadn’t found their mate. Once they found their mate, she would ground them both. She would be the warm and loving force that would center them. And now they had found her. Jace scowled down at the woman, unwilling to give in to the need he had to crush her to him and claim her. He fiercely pushed aside the feelings he was beginning to have for her. He didn’t want her to understand him. He didn’t want her to sense his pain. He didn’t want to appreciate her real concern. He didn’t want to need her. But he did—every one of those damn things. He did want them all. And it was scaring the hell out of him. Laurie looked up at him and smiled sadly. She could sense the pride in him, but she could also sense the pain. “Stubborn man,” she finally whispered, exasperation evident in her voice. She shook her head as she faced the man called Jackson, hesitating slightly as she saw him smile. Her stomach did a little flutter as she found herself between these two very masculine men. Down, girl. The admonishment whispered in her head. Don’t get caught up in thoughts that could never be your reality. Jackson couldn’t stop himself from chuckling as he turned and led the way out of the room. This little spitfire was going to be just what Jace needed. Just what he needed, too. Laurie followed behind Jackson, ignoring the growls coming from behind her. “And you can stop your grumbling,” she warned him. “I have some liniment in my bag. You can use it on your shoulder before you go to bed tonight.”

20

Lynnette Bernard

Jace said nothing. He just rolled his eyes and followed them out of the room, admiring the view of Laurie’s beautiful curves as she walked before him. How he wanted to reach out and squeeze that delectable ass. What room do we have for the overflow of guests, Jackson? The one across the hall from mine and next to yours.

Laurie’s Loves

21

Chapter 3 Laurie walked into the kitchen of the main house and looked around. The two elderly women standing before the stove looked up at her entrance. The taller one faced her and smiled at her with welcome in her eyes. “Hello, Ms. Young,” she greeted her warmly. “Please, call me Laurie,” Laurie told her quickly as she made her way across the kitchen to stand beside them. “Martha Gregg,” she answered, smiling. “This is our housekeeper, Vera Moore. It’s very nice to meet you, Laurie.” Vera nodded abruptly at Laurie, stepping back and facing Martha without addressing the young woman. “I have duties to attend to, Martha,” she said quietly. “I’ll speak with you later about the staff schedules.” Turning, the small woman left the kitchen without another word. Laurie looked at her retreating form and frowned with concern. “I’m sorry to have disturbed you, Martha,” she said sincerely. “I don’t want to interfere with your jobs.” Martha laughed and reached out to touch Laurie’s arm lightly before returning her attention to the many pots on the stove. “Oh, don’t worry about that,” she assured her. “This isn’t a job for me. This is my family.” She looked at Laurie and winked. “Don’t mind old sourpuss,” she whispered conspiratorially. “She’s never been one who likes to deviate from routine. The amount of guests this week is overwhelming her, and she doesn’t want to make a mistake. Don’t take it personally.” Laurie smiled at her, feeling instantly welcomed by the kind woman. “I would like to help if you don’t mind.” Martha looked up, startled. She could feel the goodness in this one. And she could smell her alpha and beta on her. Even though the scent was faint, it was there. Both men had touched her. She wondered if there was

22

Lynnette Bernard

something going on that she was not privy to just yet. It had to be something. They had put her in the bedroom near theirs. No human had ever shared the private compound with them before. It was just for pack. And now this woman was suddenly here instead of in the lodging assigned to guests. Something was definitely up. She could feel it in her bones that this was the woman who would be the mate to her boys. Though they weren’t her own children by birth, she loved Jace and Jackson as if they were, and she worried that they were destined to never find their mate. Maybe the Fates had finally smiled on them and had sent them this woman. “You don’t have to help,” Martha told her sincerely. “You’re a guest. Tonight there will be a big dinner at the main dining hall to welcome all the lodgers. They’ll have lots of activities set up for all of you to enjoy your time with us.” Laurie stepped back and looked away. “I really don’t want to participate in any activities. I just wanted some time away to relax. I haven’t had a vacation in fifteen years.” “Why ever not?” Martha asked, shocked. “I was alone with my kids,” Laurie explained, shrugging slightly. “I was too busy raising them. And no money to do anything for myself. Now that they’re older, I have some time to myself, and I’ve saved up so I could come here and just enjoy the beautiful country and have no responsibilities for a little while. Actually, I didn’t really have the money now, but after this past month I just had to get away.” “What happened?” Martha watched silently as Laurie averted her eyes slowly, unwilling to allow her to catch a glimpse of the tears that threatened to fall, but the older woman recognized her pain immediately. She could see there was much sadness in this young woman’s life. “Not much to tell,” Laurie told her softly, shrugging her shoulders slightly. “One day is pretty much like every other.” She was not about to embarrass herself and tell this kind woman the misery of her life. The constant harassment and abuse of her ex-husband had really worn her down. He had been especially cruel to her lately, and she was really at a breaking point. She was barely holding it together.

Laurie’s Loves

23

“How many children do you have?” Martha asked, changing the subject. She was curious about the woman she thought might be the one destined to be the mate of her alpha and beta. “Two,” Laurie answered proudly. “They’re twins. A girl and a boy. They just graduated from high school. They’re the best kids, and I love them to death. I’m very lucky.” “Luck has nothing to do with it,” Martha told her knowingly. “A mother guides her children to be the people they are. We aren’t always lucky enough to have our children be the upstanding people we all wish they would be, but our influence has to have something to do with how they turn out. You must be a wonderful parent.” Laurie blushed lightly. No one but her best friend Nikki had ever given her credit for how she had raised her children. Certainly not her ex, who continually told her she was worthless and did everything wrong. “Why don’t you go out and sit on the deck while I finish getting dinner ready,” Martha told her quietly. “Just relax. Maybe you can help me tomorrow after you’ve had tonight to rest after your travels of today.” Laurie smiled and nodded. “That would be nice. I would like that.” “Don’t worry if you find two wolves come up onto the deck and sit with you,” the matronly woman told her as Laurie made her way out through the glass doors that led to the back deck. “They’re tame and often come up to sit on the deck with us after a long day.” “Okay,” Laurie’s voice drifted back to her as she walked out onto the deck and sat in one of the extra wide lounge chairs, settling back to enjoy the crisp afternoon air. She leaned her head back and relaxed, closing her eyes and giving in to the total beauty of the world around her. She could hear the rustling of the wind as it blew through the trees that surrounded the main house. Opening her eyes, she looked out toward the tree line and held her breath as she saw two wolves making their way toward the deck. They were both huge, one slightly bigger than the other. Both had dark fur, one black, the other dark brown. They advanced toward her slowly, and she couldn’t help the fear that gripped at her as they stepped up onto the deck and made their way toward her. She held her breath as they took up spots on either side of the lounge chair she was sitting on and sat down on their haunches. Very slowly, the

24

Lynnette Bernard

larger, black wolf leaned forward to rest his chin on her left thigh. The dark brown wolf did the same to her right. Their eyes held hers, waiting for her acceptance. She didn’t know how she knew that, but she did. And, once again, she smelled that wonderful smell she had experienced earlier. It was a combination of sweetness and muskiness, and it nearly made her drool. Reaching out slowly, she touched their heads gently and began to pet them. The softness of their fur was a wonderful feeling under her hands. She soon relaxed, forgetting that they were wolves, and just enjoyed their companionship, smiling as she felt their rumbling of contentment beneath her touch. “You’re both so beautiful,” she told them softly. “I bet you could just steal someone’s heart with your gorgeous eyes and beautiful fur.” The black wolf chuffed, and the brown wolf rubbed his face across her leg. Both raised their paws to jump up onto the lounge, and she couldn’t help but laugh out loud as she was suddenly surrounded by their big, heavy, and warm bodies. The night was quickly gaining on them, and the temperature was turning cold. She welcomed their heat, the thought never crossing her mind that she should be afraid. They were gentle wolves, and the rumblings in their chests were almost purrs of contentment—if a wolf could purr, that is. “Oh, you guys are heartbreakers for sure,” she told them, laughing as they both laid their heads on her chest and looked up at her with their beautiful eyes. Martha looked through the window at the wolves as they sat so comfortably with Laurie. She felt a sense of rightness. Yup. She was definitely the one. Martha hummed a sweet song to herself as she turned to concentrate on the meal she was preparing, her heart light with happiness. **** Laurie took the seat that Jace held out for her, settling comfortably to his left as he sat at the head of the table. She leaned back and placed a maroon, linen napkin on her lap. She looked across the table and smiled shyly at Jackson as he sat at Jace’s right. She couldn’t help but think that he belonged there at Jace’s side. It confused her, but she sensed that there was a

Laurie’s Loves

25

hierarchy of power that the men shared. Her thoughts drifted to how powerful they both were, and couldn’t stop herself from imagining what they could do to a woman. What they could do to her. She blushed and lowered her eyes, chastising herself for thinking anything about any man— especially these two men. Get a grip, Laurie. No one would ever desire you in that way. Especially the two men who are sitting beside you. Her inner voice did not mock her. It was the voice of reason and acceptance of what her lot in life was. Jackson and Jace had come in from outside shortly after she had left the deck. By that time, Martha had taken Laurie into the circle of her family and had introduced her to her daughter Janine, her sons Alexander and Adrian, her daughter-in-law Julia, and her four-year-old granddaughter Tammy. Colin and Butler, the two other men that seemed to complete the family, were also introduced to her. Laurie couldn’t help but feel the warmth of their family and felt welcomed and at home with them immediately. She saw that Julia and Adrian were a couple and was a bit confused by the third man Colin, who also seemed to be a part of their relationship. Even though it was not something she understood, she couldn’t deny the genuine caring that the three of them seemed to have for each other. Martha’s son Alexander and his friend Butler were nearly as massive as Jace and Jackson. Laurie watched them with caution as she saw how they stood inside the kitchen, reminding Laurie of sentries who remained on alert for an impending attack. Despite their obvious seriousness, she couldn’t help but feel comforted by their presence. Even more than that though, she saw how all the men treated Martha and Julia with obvious caring and respect. And they touched her heart with the way they teased and showed love to the little girl. Sitting at the table, she looked around it to the people who made up the Beckett family and was impressed by the ease with which they interacted with each other. She couldn’t stop the smile that spread across her face as she became immersed in the love that they seemed to feel deeply for each other. She felt calm. She felt content. These were unique feelings for her. She could picture herself sitting here with this family and experiencing the warmth of this home. Her time outside on the deck, looking out at the beautiful land that surrounded the ranch and sitting with the two wolves who

26

Lynnette Bernard

had come up to spend time with her, seemed to settle her and feed a need that she had to connect with something that she couldn’t quite put into words. She thought of the two wolves who had already wormed their way into her heart. What sweet animals they were. She hoped that they would come up on the deck often. She would be sure to be out there every night in case they decided to share their time with her again. Both wolves made her feel good. Their warmth and their contentment as they settled themselves beside her on the lounge chair made her feel a sense of peace and security that she hadn’t felt in her life—ever. And she looked forward to feeling that way again. “So how do you like it here so far, Laurie?” Jackson asked her as he passed the mashed potatoes to his alpha, smiling at the growling man. He was enjoying this way too much, and he knew Jace would eventually make him stop, but he was having too much fun to care. “I really like the peacefulness of your ranch,” Laurie told him with obvious honesty, smiling at Tammy as she sat beside her, handing the sweet child a dinner roll with a wink. “Here you go, honey,” she told her quietly, smiling as the little girl shyly accepted the roll. “Thank you,” Tammy answered, giggling and leaning forward to bury her face in Laurie’s shirt, hugging her tightly before looking up at her. “You smell like Unca Jace and Unca Jackson,” she said quietly, smiling brightly. “Do I?” Laurie laughed, hugging the child quickly and helping her scoot her chair closer to the table. “I’ll take that as a compliment, because they sure do smell good,” she whispered, kissing the top of her head lightly. Jace and Jackson looked at each other briefly. Although Laurie had whispered, they had heard her perfectly, and what she said pleased them both. Tammy’s mom laughed and reached forward to cut up the chicken on her daughter’s plate. “Sorry if she’s a bit forward, Laurie,” Julia apologized quickly, looking at her alpha and beta worriedly. “She’s adorable,” Laurie spoke up immediately. She gently pushed the little girl’s hair back from her face. “I think she’s already stolen my heart,” she told them honestly.

Laurie’s Loves

27

Julia smiled at Laurie, genuine happiness shining at Laurie’s acceptance of her child. Tears filled her eyes, and she found that she was unable to talk, so taken by the genuine kindness and caring of this young woman. “Unca Jace, are you gonna read me a story tonight?” Tammy spoke up, looking at Jace with all the innocence of youth. Jace smiled at the little girl with obvious caring in his eyes. His expression was one of tenderness as he looked at her, and Laurie felt her chest squeeze with emotion at the sight of this obviously powerful man looking at this child with such love. “Have you been good today, cub?” he asked her seriously. “I have, Unca Jace, I promise,” she answered him quickly with a seriousness that made Jace smile, her light brown curls bouncing as she nodded her head enthusiastically. “Then I guess I’ll have to read you a story,” he told her calmly as he picked up his fork and speared his steak. “I love you, Unca Jace!” Tammy told him happily. “Love you, too, cub,” Jace answered her immediately, smiling at her with open caring. “Hey, what about me?” Jackson chimed in, pulling the little girl’s attention to him. Tammy smiled at Jackson. “Oh, Unca Jackson!” she told him, giggling. “I love you, too.” Jackson smiled at her, winking. “All right then. Just don’t you forget it.” Laurie felt herself smiling despite her resolve to remain aloof. She couldn’t help it. The men’s honest love and caring for the little girl touched her heart and nearly made her cry. I guess it is possible for men to really love children. Her inner dialogue was interrupted when Tammy leaned over and spoke to her in a voice that would rival any stage whisper. “I have to tell Unca Jace and Unca Jackson every day that I love them.” “You do?” Laurie asked, matching Tammy’s whisper with her own. “Why?” “Because they don’t have a little girl to tell them that.” Laurie looked at the two men quickly, unsure of their reaction. She saw the flash of sadness that consumed them as they looked at her before they carefully schooled their emotions. But she had seen the raw pain and loneliness that had consumed them, even if it had only been for a brief

28

Lynnette Bernard

moment. Her heart went out to the two men. She knew what it was like to be so sad because of isolation. It seemed to her that the men desired their own family. And her heart softened toward them because of it. “Even when they do have a little girl to tell them, you should still tell them that you love them,” Laurie finally whispered back to Tammy. “Why?” “Because it would be nice for them to know that the people they love, love them back.” Tammy looked up with wide, soft brown eyes. “Do the people you love, love you back?” she asked Laurie with obvious concern. “Yes, my children love me very much,” Laurie answered immediately. “Just like you love your parents.” Tammy smiled and giggled as she lifted her miniature fork and speared one of the pieces of chicken that had been cut up for her, looking at her parents and smiling as she popped it into her mouth and chewed. “You’re very lucky to have her,” Laurie spoke quietly, reaching out to touch the small child’s head and gently stroke her hair before turning her attention back to her own plate. “Yes, we are,” Julia’s husband Adrian answered, taking the bowl of mashed potatoes from Martha. “She is wonderful,” Colin agreed, reaching out to touch Julia’s hand. Laurie watched the three of them and couldn’t help but smile at the love the three of them seemed to share. When she had first seen the three of them together, she had been confused by the relationship, but as she saw how they were together, she realized that they made a truly loving team. Throughout the day, she had seen the same three-person relationship throughout the group of people that worked and lived at the ranch. She had quickly realized that it was the norm here, and she had come to accept it without reservation. They all seemed so happy and so supportive of each other. Who was she to question it? “Can you be any more nauseating?” Janine complained as she took the bowl of potatoes from her brother. “Janine!” Martha snapped, horrified at her daughter’s rudeness. “It’s okay, Mom,” Adrian spoke up, trying to placate his mother. “No, it’s not,” Jace spoke up, his voice deep with anger as he looked at Janine.

Laurie’s Loves

29

“I’m sorry, Alpha,” Janine whispered, lowering her head and placing her hands in her lap. “Do not disrespect anyone in this family again, Janine,” he warned her quietly. The anger he felt at Janine’s uncaring comment to her brother, his triad partner and their mate, as well as her mother, nearly made Jace lose control of his wolf. His eyes glowed golden as he struggled to calm himself. Janine’s constant and ever-growing coldness and cutting remarks had hurt the people he loved and protected, time and time again. He would not tolerate her insolence for much longer. Only his love for Martha had caused him to show any lenience toward her at all. Laurie looked from Jace to Janine. Some of the words Jace used confused her, but she was more concerned with the fact that he was so upset with Janine. She was worried by the way she saw Jace trying to control his anger. Without hesitation, she reached out and touched Jace’s hand as it lay clenched on the table. Jace’s fist slowly opened, and she moved to cover his hand with her own, gently stroking across his knuckles with her thumb in a soothing fashion. Jackson watched as Laurie reached out to Jace, and his heart melted at the unconscious need Laurie displayed to soothe Jace. When he saw Jace finally open his hand to take hold of Laurie’s and gently wrap his fingers around hers to hold her hand, he knew at that moment that everything was as it should be. He could feel the way Jace relaxed under her touch, and he in turn felt the same relaxation. He reached out his own hand and touched Jace’s forearm, feeling the link between the three of them, their triad, immediately. Jace looked at Jackson and smiled before turning to look at Laurie’s hand that gently held his. Raising his eyes to look up at Laurie, he couldn’t help but smile at the concern that shone in the softness of her brown eyes. He squeezed her hand gently and loved the blush that crept across her cheeks as she carefully pulled her hand from his. He looked at Janine briefly, his eyes reflecting the anger of his wolf, flashing a warning before he turned to look at Martha. He saw the concern that the older woman had for her daughter and nodded to her. They would talk about Janine later. He would not let her ruin this night for them.

30

Lynnette Bernard

Martha looked at her children as they sat around the large table with their chosen triad partners. She was happy they sat with Jace and Jackson, the two men that she loved like her own sons. She was content that her son Adrian and his triad partner Colin had found happiness with their mate Julia. She was proud that her son Alexander and his triad partner Butler had found their calling as lieutenants for the pack. It would only be a matter of time before they found their triad mate, too. Now that Jace and Jackson had found their mate, she was even more content with the way her children were living their lives. Just Janine was her source of frustration. She didn’t know why her daughter had become such an unkind and bitter young woman. Jackson got up from the table and retrieved the large pitcher of water, returning to place it on the table in front of Laurie. Leaning down, he kissed her cheek lightly and straightened to wink at Jace before returning to his seat. Jace smiled and looked at Laurie, loving the adorable blush that covered her cheeks as she looked across at Jackson in absolute shock. Couldn’t resist, Jace. Jackson explained calmly as he winked at Laurie. I know her scent proves she’s our mate, but the way she reached out to calm you proved to me without a doubt that she was meant for us. Unable to control his thoughts, Jace couldn’t help but project the image that flashed in his mind to Jackson. It was of Laurie, sitting on the deck in the lounge chair, waiting for them, smiling and rubbing her very swollen belly. The sight stole his breath for a moment, and his chest constricted with emotion at the thought of this woman filled with their child. Jackson’s breath caught in his throat at the mental image Jace sent him. He looked at Laurie, and his heart pounded as he watched her gentleness with Tammy. He looked back at Jace and nodded, his eyes flashing golden for a brief moment as he sent back the image that appeared in his mind of Laurie holding one of their babies to her breast while her womb was swollen once again with another of their children. Jace closed his eyes briefly and then looked at Jackson with the same golden glow in his own eyes. Raw need and want flashed in them, and Jackson had to stop himself from reaching out to touch Jace’s forearm, then join his other hand with Laurie’s, forming the triad of love that was destined to be. Do you think it’s too soon to claim her tonight, Jace? Jace looked at Jackson and scowled. What do you think?

Laurie’s Loves

31

Jackson blushed slightly. I think I can’t think at all with my cock as hard as steel! I know. Jace’s voice was tired. But we have to do this right or risk losing her, and we can’t have that happen. Jackson smiled at his friend then looked across to their mate. He was glad that Jace already felt the bond beginning to form with Laurie and didn’t want to risk losing her. He had been afraid that Jace’s stubbornness would cause him to reject the woman and seal their fate to a lifetime of loneliness by refusing to accept the mate the Fates had destined to be theirs. They would never have another. Laurie was their one. And he couldn’t wait to claim her and start their future. “Is your room all right, Laurie?” Jace asked her, drawing her attention to him. He forgot what he asked when she turned to him and smiled with such genuine happiness. The woman’s total openness and lack of guile was refreshing. She didn’t flirt, didn’t play. She made him feel comfortable and happy just to talk to her. And he had never experienced that before when talking with any woman. Women in general made Jace uncomfortable. Those that flirted with him did so with ulterior motives. Whether it be for improving their rank in the pack by mating with the alpha male, or wanting to experience sex with him and, in turn, bind him to them. Either reason left him cold and untrusting. “The room is beautiful.” Laurie’s answer drew him back to the present. “I’ve never had such a nice room. But the reason I’m here is for the peacefulness of the ranch.” She helped Tammy spoon some corn onto her dish then turned to face Jace once again. “I was on the deck before, and two wolves came up and sat with me.” The sparkle in her eyes showed her excitement and happiness. Jace couldn’t keep the smile from his face as he watched her talk about him and Jackson. “Were you afraid?” he asked her quietly, holding his breath without realizing it as he awaited her answer. “At first,” Laurie admitted, “but they were so calm and gentle. They were absolutely beautiful. And when they climbed up onto the lounge chair with me and I held them, it was amazing. I have never felt so calm and protected in my life.” She looked at Jackson and then back at Jace, her brow furrowed in confusion. “Does that make sense?”

32

Lynnette Bernard

Jackson smiled and lifted his glass of water to her, winking playfully. “It makes absolute sense,” he told her warmly, his deep voice making her shiver slightly. Laurie looked from Jackson to Jace again and blushed lightly, unable to keep the desire she was feeling under control. If they knew that she was thinking about them and that she was attracted to them, they would laugh at her, and she would have no choice but to leave the ranch in humiliation. She would not allow that to happen. She wanted to enjoy her time here. Her private fantasies would remain just that. Private. Jace inhaled sharply, the scent of her arousal reaching him and making his already achingly painful erection throb. When he looked at Jackson, he knew that his friend was suffering a similar fate. I’m not going to be able to hold back much longer, Jace. Jace looked at Laurie and smiled. He would do what it took to have this gentle woman accept them. And he needed to do it soon. Time was important. Jackson, we will claim our mate together within the next few days. Jackson nodded slightly, knowing both he and Jace needed Laurie with an urgency that she had no way of understanding. Looking at Laurie as she spoke quietly with the rest of their family, he knew she was going to be everything they had hoped for and more. He settled back in his chair, relaxing as the realization that they were finally going to be part of a mated triad came over him. Laurie may be unaware of what he and Jace already knew to be true, but they would enjoy every moment of helping her to accept them and the future the Fates had planned for them. Their triad mating was going to happen, and it was going to happen soon. It may be fast from a human’s perspective, but not from a wolf’s. He looked at Jace and barely contained the growl of possession that threatened to escape him. He had only one thought. Mate. Jackson’s voice was strong and sure as it resounded with conviction in Jace’s mind. Jace nodded and smiled slyly. More than that, Jackson.

Laurie’s Loves

33

Jackson’s eyebrows rose in question as he watched Jace look over at their mate, drawing her scent into his lungs with a slow inhale. Smiling, Jace turned his attention back to Jackson. Our mate is fertile.

34

Lynnette Bernard

Chapter 4 Laurie sat silently beside Julia and her husbands on the oversized, brown, suede couch, watching Tammy as she climbed awkwardly onto Jace’s lap. She couldn’t help but smile when she saw Jace’s unmistakable joy as he reached down and helped the adorable girl climb up his legs and settle comfortably within the safety of his arms. “Story time, Unca Jace.” Tammy giggled as she shoved the little storybook she had in her hand against his chest. “You promised.” “Yes, I did, cub,” Jace told her warmly, taking the book from her and settling her back against his chest as he opened the little book. Laurie found herself pushing back tears as Jace read the story about a little puppy to Tammy. The way he pointed to the pictures as he read and had her talk about each one showed that this was a common occurrence with the small child. It touched her in a way that scared her. And when she saw Jackson leave his recliner to sit on the floor beside Jace, to tenderly touch Tammy’s hair as she giggled about the story, she almost lost her composure. “Look, Unca Jackson,” Tammy told him happily, squealing with delight as she pointed to the picture in the book. “I see,” Jackson told her, smiling as she looked at him with such happiness. “The little puppy is so cute!” Jackson laughed as he leaned over and kissed Tammy’s cheek quickly. “Not as cute as you, darlin’,” he told her, smiling at her. Tammy reached out and grabbed a handful of Jackson’s hair, hanging on tightly as Jace finished the story. Laurie watched them silently, amazed at the honest comfort level both men had with the little girl. There was an ache in her chest as she saw the way Tammy snuggled against Jace’s chest, and her eyes went from the book to Jace and then to Jackson as she enjoyed herself so totally.

Laurie’s Loves

35

When Jace finished the book, Tammy let go of Jackson’s hair and twisted her little body to turn into Jace’s embrace, giggling as she kissed his face sloppily. “That was a good book, Unca Jace,” she told him sweetly before turning and jumping into Jackson’s arms, tumbling him to the floor before kissing his cheek as well. Jackson laughed as Tammy quickly scrambled off of him and ran to the couch to climb up quickly onto Laurie’s lap. Both men grew immediately serious at the sight of Laurie opening her arms and cuddling the child to her quickly, leaning down to kiss the top of her head. The men looked at each other, neither able to put into words the feelings that rushed through them as they watched the warmth that Laurie shared with a child she barely knew. As Tammy settled against Laurie and they watched their mate tenderly stroke the little one’s hair, they both flashed a picture to the other of Laurie cuddling their own child against her. It was a beautiful image that made them feel a desire so strong for the scene in their minds to be their future reality. Jace sat back in the big leather recliner that sat at an angle to the fireplace. Jackson stood and walked back to the matching black recliner that sat at the opposite side of the fireplace and leaned back to lounge comfortably. They watched silently as Laurie slowly pet Tammy’s hair, lulling the child to sleep and holding her tenderly as she snuggled against her chest. Laurie held her gently, rubbing her shoulder lovingly as she slept peacefully. “She’s such a great kid,” Laurie spoke softly to Tammy’s parents as they sat next to her on the couch. Julia smiled at Laurie then turned to her husbands Adrian and Colin, and touched their hands gently. “She is at that,” she agreed, whispering her fingers across her mates’ hands lovingly. “She’s the sweetest baby, just like her daddies.” Adrian smiled and held his mate’s hand, squeezing it tightly before bringing it to his lips to kiss it lightly. “She’s just like you, honey,” he argued, smiling. “Hopefully the next baby will be just as sweet,” Colin added, reaching out to touch Julia’s belly gently, leaning in to kiss her cheek tenderly.

36

Lynnette Bernard

Laurie looked at Julia and smiled, her eyes sparkling at the joy she felt for the three of them. “Congratulations,” she offered sincerely. Her eyes filled with tears at the news. She couldn’t help the emotions that filled her as she watched the loving trio as they sat cuddled against each other. Unable to stop herself, she reached out and touched Julia’s hand, squeezing it lightly. Julia looked at her with such happiness that Laurie couldn’t stop the tears from falling down her cheeks. How wonderful that this young woman could be so happy with these two men, who obviously were just as happy as she was at the prospect of having another child. Adrian stood and gently pulled Julia to her feet, kissing her cheek lightly as he tenderly covered her growing baby bump. Turning to Laurie, Colin reached forward and lifted his sleeping daughter into his arms. “It was nice meeting you, Laurie,” he told her quietly, touching his daughter’s face gently as he spoke. “See you in the morning.” Laurie nodded and smiled at them as they walked away, their arms around each other. She sighed sadly, wishing it had been that way for her. But it hadn’t been. Standing slowly, she turned away from the three of them to find both Jace and Jackson watching her silently. “Do the majority of the people here end up in relationships of three people?” Laurie asked them curiously, not one hint of judgment in her voice. “Yes, Laurie,” Jace answered her instantly, his voice strong. “Does that bother you?” “Bother me?” Laurie asked, her brows furrowed in confusion. She hesitated briefly, wanting to choose the right words as she worked out exactly what she felt about these uncommon relationships. “No, it doesn’t bother me,” she answered slowly. “It’s just so different. But it seems to be right for them.” “Yes, it is,” Jace agreed, the sureness in his voice never wavering. “It’s the way it should be.” “I think so, too,” she agreed, looking back at the doorway that the happy family had just exited through. “I’m glad for them,” she admitted softly. She turned toward Jace and Jackson and smiled sadly. “How’s your shoulder?” she asked Jace, suddenly remembering his injury. The surprise on Jace’s face made her smile. She couldn’t help but

Laurie’s Loves

37

laugh as she stepped closer to him. “I never forget anything,” she explained to him quietly, turning to Jackson to smile at him. Jackson stood and walked toward her, unable to stop himself from being as close to her as he could. Jace turned in his chair and watched as Laurie made her way toward him. He couldn’t have spoken if his life had depended on it. Just the fact that she was looking at him and smiling as she came closer to him made his heart race. Her scent encompassed him, and he wanted nothing more than to pull her into his arms and kiss her senseless. When her hand gently touched his shoulder, he closed his eyes and turned his face into her arm and breathed in deeply. When she laughed, he opened his eyes and looked up at her, embarrassed at having been caught. “I know. I smell it, too. What is that smell? It smells so good.” Laurie looked at Jackson and smiled as she caught him taking in a deep breath as well. “We’re all crazy!” Laurie laughed and reached up to wipe the tears from her cheeks. Taking another breath, she turned to walk away. “I’ll go get the liniment for you,” she told him as she left the room. Jackson turned to Jace and was happy to see the look of contentment on his triad partner’s face. “She’s perfect for us, Jace,” he told him quietly. “She makes me smile all the time.” Jace nodded and leaned back in his chair. “She’s already made the members of the pack feel comfortable with her. I would have never believed it if I hadn’t seen it.” He turned to Jackson and sighed. “They seek her out. It’s as if they know she’ll comfort them and accept them.” “It’s amazing,” Jackson agreed. “Every moment we spend with her makes me calmer and more centered. My wolf is so calm, I can’t believe it. He actually purrs when she touches us.” Jace stood up and began to unbutton his shirt. Pulling it from his body, he threw it on the chair behind him and reached down to grab the hem of his T-shirt, pulling it up and over his head to throw it on the chair as well. “What are you doing?” Jackson asked him, smiling. “Getting ready for Laurie to rub the liniment into my shoulder,” Jace told him, winking at him quickly and schooling his features as Laurie came back into the room. She stumbled slightly as she walked through the doorway and saw Jace with no shirt on. The muscles upon muscles that graced his body made her mouth drop open in awe. Placing the tube of liniment on the side table near

38

Lynnette Bernard

the couch, she stepped back and looked at both men before quickly lowering her eyes. “Use as much as you need,” she told Jace quietly, her face blushing hotly as she forced herself to look up at him. “Good night.” With that, she turned and left the room as quickly as her legs could take her. She fought the urge to turn around and gaze at the stunning loveliness of his body. She wanted to touch him, kiss him, and lick every inch of his body. Once she made it to the stairway, she took the steps two at a time and quickly ran to her bedroom, closing the door behind her and locking it quickly. She leaned her back against the door and struggled to control her breathing. Jackson turned to Jace and shook his head. “Too much?” Jace teased, grinning devilishly. Jackson burst out laughing, holding his side as he struggled to contain his laughter so Laurie wouldn’t hear him. He had never, in all the years he had known Jace, seen him so carefree and happy. Yup. Laurie was just what they needed to bring joy into their lives.

Laurie’s Loves

39

Chapter 5 Jace leaned in and kissed the side of Laurie’s neck, opening his mouth and scraping his canines against her body where her neck met her shoulder. Laurie moaned and reached out to clasp her hands around his neck to pull him closer to her. He reached up and covered her mouth with his, coaxing her lips open to accept him, gently thrusting his tongue into her mouth and sweeping its sweetness, moaning his approval as she responded shyly with her own tongue. One of his large hands was holding the back of her head as he leaned in to claim her mouth once again while the other swept her body to feel the silkiness of her skin and settle gently against her breast, circling her already taut nipple. “Laurie,” he moaned as his mouth left hers, and he trailed kisses down her body to her full breast before taking the rosy nipple into his mouth and sucking hard before laving it gently with his tongue. “Jace,” she gasped, her body arching up toward his touch. Wanting. Needing. “Please don’t stop,” she pleaded. “I need you.” “Oh, baby,” he groaned, laughing, his voice gruff with passion, “I have no intentions of stopping until you scream my name as you come.” Laurie moaned and reached out to grip his head, threading her fingers through the silkiness of his black hair and pulling him back toward her breast. She lost herself in the sensations of his mouth suckling at her breast and his hands petting her body. She was floating in sensations as her body received such total gentleness and love. Her legs were slowly parted, and she felt Jace kiss his way down to her inner thigh. She reached down and touched his head lovingly as he leaned back to look up at her. “I’ve been needing to taste you since the moment I saw you,” he whispered, gently spreading her lower lips to reveal the shiny pinkness that

40

Lynnette Bernard

awaited him. She was already wet and ready for them, and he wanted to make her know the ecstasy that they would give her. The moan that escaped her made him smile as his tongue took one long swipe from her delicate opening to her clit, humming in satisfaction at the glorious taste of her juices. His tongue speared deep inside her, and he pulled out to latch onto her clit and suck gently before biting down on it carefully. Laurie’s hips lifted off the bed, and he smiled as she cried out his name. Jace chuckled and reached forward with his large hand to gently rub the swollen bud as Jackson inserted two fingers into her tight opening and curled them slightly to rub against the elusive spot inside her, his body pressing against her hip as he settled comfortably beside her. Laurie nearly shot off the bed at the explosion that shot through her body. They slowed their movements to gently coax her down from her orgasm, kissing her face, her breasts, her stomach, as they soothed her. Moving as one, Jace settled between her legs and placed his cock at the entrance to her body, leaning in slightly so she could feel the pressure of the tip of his erection. “Do you want this, Laurie?” he asked her quietly, stilling all movement until she gave him permission to enter her body. “If you say yes, there’s no going back.” His voice was deep and serious. She looked up at him and saw the need in his face, but her eyes filled with tears at the love she also saw there. “If you say yes, you’ll be ours.” She looked over at Jackson. He waited beside her on his knees as he watched them, his heavy cock hard and dripping with pre-cum. His eyes held a longing that stole her heart, and she saw the love he had for her shining back at her. Tears filled her eyes as she looked from Jackson to Jace, and she reached out to gently touch Jace’s face with her right hand and Jackson’s face with her left. “I love you both,” she whispered, her heart nearly breaking at the love she felt for both men. “Please make love to me. Make me yours.” Jace covered her body with his, moaning against her neck as she took hold of his shaft and brought it to her waiting channel. He rocked into her in small increments, groaning at her tightness. It took every bit of effort to work his way into her body with careful thrusts, easing himself into her with a gentleness that would ensure he didn’t hurt her. She was so tight, so

Laurie’s Loves

41

exquisite, he feared he would spill his seed before he even seated himself deep within her. Hearing her moan with pleasure as he pushed the last inch of his rock-hard cock into her, he had to stop and gather his control as he felt the tip of his shaft touch her womb. Pulling out gently, he surged back into her waiting warmth, making her moan in pleasure at the feel of him deep inside her. He stilled, searching her face for any fear or pain, allowing her body the needed reprieve to relax and open to accommodate his size. Only when he felt her body grow pliant beneath him, did he start to move again. Each pull of his cock within her silky channel made the most erotic sounds escape her mouth. She canted her hips to take him deeper into her body. He leaned down to kiss her gently, picked himself up on his arms to get a better angle, then slowly rocked in and out of her body, groaning in ecstasy as her internal muscles gripped him as if she never wanted him to leave the warmth of her body. Laurie moaned and turned to Jackson, reaching out to grab his cock and gently pull him toward her mouth. His length and girth were impressive, but Laurie was determined to take every inch of him. When he hit the back of her throat, she swallowed, and he moaned her name as he pet her hair and rocked slowly back and forth within the warm depths of her mouth. Jace picked up speed and was thrusting harder with each inward stroke, wanting all of them to reach their fulfillment at the same time. Knowing he was about to come, he reached down between their bodies and stroked her clit quickly, putting pressure on it and pinching it lightly. She pulled Jackson’s cock from her mouth and screamed her climax, squeezing down on his cock and sending Jace over the abyss, pulling his orgasm from him. His cock pulsed repeatedly, sending surge after surge of his seed deep into her body to her waiting womb. Jace collapsed against her, his breath coming in hard gasps as he held her against his chest, rubbing his face in the crook of her neck before kissing her pulse point and biting down gently. Her moan made him smile. “I love you, Mate,” he whispered in her ear, his voice heavy with emotion. Laurie held him tightly, rubbing her hands up and down his back, her nails scoring him lightly as small tremors still shook her body. The rhythmic

42

Lynnette Bernard

pulsing of his cock deep inside her made her smile as she felt the repeated release of his warm seed surge from him into her welcoming body. “I love you, Jace,” she whispered against his neck as she leaned in to kiss it tenderly. He pulled back to look down at her with eyes sparkling with emotion that made her own eyes instantly fill with tears. He reached up and slowly brushed her hair from her eyes, leaning forward to kiss her forehead with exquisite care before leaning back to look down at her. “You are my heart and soul,” he whispered, his eyes shimmering with tears. “I thank the Fates that you have come into our lives.” He kissed her lips tenderly then moved slowly to gently pull from her body, smiling at the moan that escaped her at the loss of him. Laurie held him against her chest and turned to Jackson, smiling weakly up at him. “Are you doing okay, honey?” Jackson asked her worriedly, reaching down to brush a strand of hair from her sweaty face. Laurie smiled up at him and stroked her hand over his cock, pulling a gasp of pleasure from him as she ran her finger over the weeping slit and drawing it back to her mouth to suck her finger slowly. “I’ll be even better when you put this where it belongs,” she told him, tugging on his cock and smiling at the deep groan that escaped him. “And just where does it belong?” he teased, his eyes sparkling at the joy and fun she brought him. “Deep inside me,” she whispered, her voice filled with need for him. “Please, Jackson.” Jackson lay down beside her, kissing her shoulder lightly before leaning down to take her breast in his hand, capturing her peaked nipple within his mouth and sucking on it lightly. Her moans pleased him, and he couldn’t help but smile when she pulled at his hips to get him to settle between her legs. Reaching down, she took firm hold of his rock-hard shaft and guided him to the entrance of her body, both of them groaning as he sank into the warmth of her body and seated himself balls-deep. “Love her, Jackson,” Jace told him from his spot next to their mate as he gently pet her belly. Jackson moved slowly at first, watching her face as he pushed into her core, smiling at the moan she released at the deepness of him inside her. “I

Laurie’s Loves

43

love you, Laurie,” he whispered as he held himself still and felt her warm channel squeeze him. “You belong to us now. Forever.” “Love you, Jackson,” she whispered, the tears of happiness falling from her eyes as she looked up into the honest caring of his soft brown eyes. “You both belong to me now.” Jackson growled in triumph at her words. Leaning forward, he kissed her lips with a passion that stole every bit of oxygen from her lungs. When he leaned back and looked down at her, there was no doubt in her mind that they meant what they said, down to their very souls. And so did she. Pulling out so that just the head of his cock remained inside her, he looked down to where their bodies were joined and growled in appreciation. Looking up at her face, he watched as pleasure burst through her as he plunged deep and hard, nearly losing control as she moaned and her hips rose to meet each thrust. Jace reached between them to find the swollen bud that begged to be stimulated and rubbed it firmly. Laurie screamed out their names as she came, Jackson filling her with his seed as she settled back into the blankets and lost consciousness. **** Jace’s bedroom door slammed open, and he staggered out into the hallway, meeting Jackson as he stumbled out of his own room. “Holy shit!” Jackson roared, wiping his face and looking at Jace. “Did she project that dream to you, too?” Jace’s heart was slamming against his chest. He stood in the hallway with just his black boxer briefs on, his cock still fully engorged despite the fact that his briefs were soaked from the spilling of his seed, and not caring one damn bit that they were. Jackson was in the very same predicament, groaning as he tried to adjust himself behind his own navy boxer briefs soaked with his own seed. “It was absolutely unbelievable!” Jace managed to get out, still shaking with desire. “Have you ever heard of any mates sharing dreams like that before they had actually mated?” Jackson asked Jace in astonishment. Jace shook his head. “Never,” he said, still winded from the experience.

44

Lynnette Bernard

“That was fucking amazing!” Jackson barely whispered. “She is going to be perfect for us. I felt so much love and desire.” Jace took a deep breath and smiled. “I did, too. There was not one feeling of being played. Not one ounce of deceit. Just tenderness and caring.” His heart constricted at the thought that this woman would truly love them both and give them the gentleness and love that they both needed so desperately. “Maybe I was wrong about having a mate,” Jace told Jackson quietly, his eyes mirroring just how unsure he was. Jackson looked at his best friend and alpha and smiled sadly. “Jace, you were right to mistrust all those women,” he told him with certainty. “They were wrong for us. They wanted something from us that would never satisfy either of us for a lifetime.” Jace nodded and looked at the door that separated them from the woman who already meant more to him than he had ever dared to acknowledge or hope for. “I know,” he admitted finally. He turned to face his friend. “That woman in there doesn’t want anything from us except our love and respect.” His voice broke slightly, and he closed his eyes to gather his strength. Opening his eyes, he stared at Jackson, his blue eyes flashing with determination. “And that’s exactly what we’re going to give her.” Jackson nodded and stepped toward the closed door. Leaning his hands against the door at shoulder level, he took a deep breath. When he looked back at Jace, he knew his eyes had to be glowing as his wolf fought for control just as Jace’s eyes mirrored his own wolf’s struggle. “I can smell her arousal,” Jackson told him, trying to steady his breathing. “Jace, I don’t think I can stop myself from going into her room right now and making that dream a reality.” “I know,” Jace agreed, reaching out to grab Jackson’s forearm to prevent him from doing just that. “We can’t, Jackson,” he told him, just as frustrated as his triad partner was. “If we do, we could lose our chance to have that for real.” Jackson rubbed his free hand across his face in frustration. “When, Jace?” he demanded. Jace looked at him and smiled slowly. “Tomorrow.” Jackson nodded and turned to go back to his bedroom, stopping and turning to face his alpha once again. “You’d better make sure that room at

Laurie’s Loves

45

the end of the hall is ready because after we claim her tomorrow, the three of us will be sharing that room for the rest of our lives.” **** Laurie woke up drenched in perspiration. The dream had been so real, and so embarrassingly decadent. She couldn’t stop the shivers that still wracked her body. Her breathing was still labored. She was still experiencing tremors from her orgasms. Multiple orgasms! She had never had an orgasm during sex with her ex-husband. But one dream about these two men, and off she shot like a rocket! Twice! Her attraction to Jace and Jackson was powerful. She’d had erotic dreams over the years but never to the extent and detail that she had just experienced. It was as if she could feel their needs and their desires. The dream made her feel their deep love for her. But it had been just a dream. It didn’t matter that it was what she hoped for deep in her lonely heart. Their kindness to her and all the people at their ranch, especially little Tammy, had drawn her to them, but she knew that she was overreacting. It was just that she wanted them to be attracted to her. They were genuinely nice to her—something that was foreign to her. She knew that her dream to have them be a permanent part of her life was strictly because of her own needs and desires. It was not because that was what they felt for her. How could they? They didn’t even know her. They were just being kind as they were kind to every guest. They had no desires for her. She knew that. Tears filled her eyes as she slowly got out of bed and pulled her drenched nightgown from her body. Stepping into the bathroom, she turned on the shower and stepped inside, closing her eyes and letting the warmth of the water soothe her tense body. Only when she couldn’t hold back any longer did she allow her tears to fall. She sobbed into the wet washcloth that she pressed against her mouth to mute her anguish. She didn’t know how much longer she could stand this life of loneliness. One person could not be expected to live as she had lived, without love or respect. It was just too much. Her fantasy about Jace and Jackson just made her feel even worse about herself. What kind of a horrible person was she that she wanted both men

46

Lynnette Bernard

and dreamed about having sex with both of them? At the same time! She was disgusted with herself, and more depressed than ever that she could only find happiness in her fantasies. How pathetic was she that she could only get by from day to day with unrealistic, desperate dreams? Very pathetic. Her ex-husband was right after all. There was only one way to deal with it. She would keep her distance from the two men. She couldn’t risk them guessing even one bit of her attraction toward them. If they ever realized her ridiculous obsession with them, she would be embarrassed and devastated. She couldn’t handle it if they laughed at her, or worse, pitied her. Maybe she should just leave.

Laurie’s Loves

47

Chapter 6 Martha stood by the sink, watching Jace and Jackson stride toward the tree line, knowing that they needed to let their wolves run free. She smiled as she saw her son Alexander and his triad partner Butler shadowing the two leaders. She was proud of them. They had proven to be fierce protectors and took their jobs as lieutenants for the pack very seriously. No one would harm their alpha or beta with them on the job. She would have to have a talk with them so they would include Laurie in their protection from now on. It didn’t matter that the rest of the pack didn’t know what she already knew just yet. It would only be a matter of time before her alpha and his beta would claim her. And then, maybe, soon there would be pups in the house again. “Good morning, Martha,” Laurie greeted her, smiling as she walked into the kitchen. Martha turned and faced the woman who had already brought happiness to Jace and Jackson. She couldn’t help but already care about her. She had a natural gift of understanding and showed genuine caring and support to all of the pack members she had met so far. And she was wonderful with the children. She was everything that was needed as the mate of the pack’s alpha and beta. “Good morning, Laurie. Did you sleep well?” Laurie hesitated before looking at the kind woman and pasting a practiced smile on her face. She nodded, unable to allow any lie to pass her lips. “It’s so beautiful here, Martha,” she said finally, sitting on one of the stools behind the counter so she could visit with her. Martha smiled and placed a plate filled with scrambled eggs, bacon, and a toasted bagel on the counter. She noticed that there were dark circles under Laurie’s eyes, and there was an aura of sadness surrounding her. Her heart hurt at the obvious pain that this young woman was in.

48

Lynnette Bernard

Walking to the refrigerator, she opened it and took out the pitcher of orange juice and a carton of milk, pouring a glass of each and placing them before Laurie and smiling. She would do her best to comfort her and then have a talk with Jace and Jackson as soon as she could. She would not let any of them miss out on any of the happiness she knew was in store for them. “Martha, this is too much for me!” Laurie laughed, taking the fork and napkin that Martha handed her. “Nonsense!” Martha told her sternly. “You must eat a balanced breakfast so that you remain healthy and not waste away to nothing.” Laurie snorted and took a quick drink of the orange juice before spearing a small amount of eggs and eating them slowly. “You’re good for my ego, Martha,” Laurie told her, laughing. Martha’s old gray eyes crinkled with enjoyment as she watched Laurie eat. “You must stay healthy for the babies you will carry.” Laurie put down her fork slowly, all appetite sufficiently killed. “That’s not a possibility, Martha,” she told the woman seriously. “I’m not going to be having any more children.” “But you’re so wonderful with Tammy and the children in our family. You would have beautiful babies,” Martha encouraged her. Laurie stood slowly and put on the heavy black cardigan sweater she had brought with her to the kitchen. Lifting up her small backpack, she faced the older woman and smiled sadly. “I’m going for a walk. Have a nice day, Martha.” With that, she turned and left the kitchen, making her way out onto the deck and walking down the steps to lose herself in the beautiful countryside of the ranch. She didn’t have the strength to explain herself. She was just so very tired of it all. **** Jace and Jackson entered the kitchen two hours later to find Martha sitting at the counter, staring up at them with concern, a worried frown crossing her face. They stood before her in just their jeans, T-shirts, and still unbuttoned flannel shirts, having just allowed their wolves to run free. She placed her hand over her mouth to muffle the sob that escaped her as they

Laurie’s Loves

49

entered. Jace stood before her silently, knowing immediately that one of his pack was in need. Something was wrong. “Alpha, I didn’t mean to upset her,” she told him quickly, sincerity evident in her voice. Jace took a step toward her, panic squeezing his chest at the thought of their mate upset. “What happened, Martha?” he asked her, controlling his emotions as best he could. Jackson’s hand on his shoulder helped a little. His beta’s words and touch were always a balm to his riotous emotions, especially lately. Stepping toward the older woman, the connection to Jackson was broken. He felt the loss immediately, and his agitation ramped up. “Martha?” Jackson echoed, his own heart pounding in his chest. He suddenly felt an overwhelming need to find their mate, place her between Jace and himself and protect her from the world. “I was telling your mate that she was wonderful with our Tammy and the children of our pack,” she told them quietly, tears filling her eyes as she spoke. Jace’s eyebrows went up at Martha’s referral to Laurie as being their mate. He shouldn’t be surprised that she was able to identify her as their mate, after all, she had been the one to raise them after their own mothers had died when they had been just cubs. He was secretly relieved and proud to be able to confirm that they had finally found the one woman that would complete their triad and join their pack, bringing with her the compassion and caring that they desperately needed. “Why did that upset our mate, Martha?” Jackson spoke for them, easing his body closer to Jace’s as he felt the tension rising in his alpha. He stepped toward him with a practiced ease that spoke of years of knowing and understanding the needs of his best friend. He gently placed his hand on Jace’s shoulder once again, squeezing lightly to reassure him that he was not alone in his worries. “That part didn’t upset her,” Martha explained, shaking her head slowly. “It was when I told her that she needed to stay healthy for the babies she would be carrying that she got upset.” “Babies?” Jace whispered, almost unable to breathe at the thought of their mate carrying their babies.

50

Lynnette Bernard

“I’m sorry, Alpha,” Martha whispered, tears falling freely now. “Laurie became very sad and told me that she was not going to have more children and left the house very upset.” Jace looked at Jackson and could feel the sadness grabbing hold of him. She won’t want to have children with us. We don’t know that, Jace. She hasn’t gotten to know us at all, let alone well enough to make that decision. We have to give her time. “I was thinking of the prophecy that my mother told me when I was a little girl about the human woman who would form a triad with the alpha and beta of our pack,” Martha told them, sniffing her tears away. “I’ve never heard of this prophecy, Martha. Have you, Jackson?” Jackson shook his head and stepped forward to reach out and touch Martha’s hand. “Tell us about the woman in this prophecy.” “The prophecy said that this woman would be a human, a teacher of children, who would bring goodness and caring to our people. She would be a strong defender of justice and would have a strength of character and compassion that would help heal the sorrow and loneliness of her two mates, helping them to calm their inner demons and helping them to lead us to a future of successful and loving triad families.” “That prophecy doesn’t mean that Laurie is the one who will do that, Martha,” Jace told her sadly. “It could be any alpha or beta that may rule our pack in the future.” Martha stood and reached into the deep pocket of her apron to pull out an item that she held reverently in her hand. Stepping toward the two men, she looked up at them and sighed. “My mother told me that the alpha would be the son of Clarice and the beta would be the son of Cara. She told me these women would not live to see their sons grow to manhood, but the pack would help them grow, and these boys would be friends who would share a bond that only they knew about.” Jackson turned to Jace in shock. No one knew about their ability to see each other’s thoughts or talk to each other in their minds. These abilities were gifted only to bonded triad mates, but it was something that had manifested in both of them as teenagers. Despite their young age, they knew it was something unique to be kept only between them.

Laurie’s Loves

51

Before either man had an opportunity to speak, Martha reached forward to take Jace’s hand in hers and turned it palm up to place her hidden treasure in it. She took her hand away, and both men stared down at the delicate gold bracelet that looked so tiny and fragile in Jace’s large hand. Jackson reached for the bracelet and lifted it gently from his friend’s hand, allowing the small golden charm to dangle free. “Jace,” he whispered as he saw what it was. Jace looked at the charm and turned to his friend, unable to speak. The charm was of a woman sitting on the ground with a wolf on either side of her. Her arms were wrapped around the wolves’ bodies, her head was tipped back, and her hair was in motion as if a breeze blew its shoulder length tresses back from her face to reveal what could only be described as pure joy on her face. Each wolf’s face was turned inward to nuzzle against her neck. Jace looked up from the bracelet and found Jackson’s shocked brown eyes studying him. It does look like Laurie, Jackson. Jackson looked down at the charm and then back at Jace. And it’s exactly how we looked when we were with her on the deck last night. “This bracelet was given to me by your mother, Jace,” Martha’s voice pulled their attention back to her. “She told me I was to give it to you when you both found your mate. Only then was I was to tell you about the prophecy.” Taking the bracelet gently from Jackson, Jace’s hand closed around it as he fought with his emotions. The joy he was feeling was incredible, but the anger he fought was undeniable. This was not something that should have been kept from him. “Is there anything else you’ve been keeping from me, Martha?” he asked her, his voice cold and hard as the anger seeped through him. Even Jackson’s calming touch on his shoulder could not stop the fire burning within him. Jackson could feel his alpha losing control. Each day, it seemed it was more and more difficult to help ease the pain and anger that was constantly growing within his friend. Laurie’s appearance had given him hope that they could finally ground him and offer him a sense of calm that Jackson knew was needed to center him and save him from himself. If this prophecy were

52

Lynnette Bernard

true, and he hoped with all his heart that it was, then their mate was going to help them both finally find inner peace and a sense of belonging and love that had so far eluded them. “My mother also told me that this mate would be in danger from outside the pack as well as from within the pack,” Martha told him, reaching out to touch both of their arms as fear gripped her. “She said some would not want a human to have such influence over our leaders and would do all that they could to destroy the woman and, in doing so, destroy both of you.” Jace’s head snapped up, and his wolf howled to be set free. Someone was threatening their mate. Looking at Jackson, he saw that his beta’s wolf was fighting within him as well. “When did she leave, and where did she go?” Jace growled, holding on to his human side with every ounce of strength he possessed. “About two hours ago,” Martha told him fearfully. “I saw her walking toward the tree line.” Jace pushed the bracelet into Martha’s hand. “I want this back when I return,” he told her, turning to stalk outside, pulling his clothes off as he strode across the deck. Jackson was right on his heels, ripping the clothes from his body as he followed. Neither man broke stride as they bounded off the deck in wolf form and ran with lightning speed in search of their mate.

Laurie’s Loves

53

Chapter 7 Laurie’s scent was strong. Jace and Jackson ran together toward their mate, their powerful bodies never tiring as they raced toward the one woman they were destined to love and protect. Worry spurred them on, and they ran in silence, afraid to voice their deepest fear of losing her before they had even gotten the chance to love her. The sound of Laurie’s laughter had them both stopping short and looking across the open expanse of field that bordered the rushing stream that ran through the middle of their ranch. She was running toward the stream, holding little Tammy’s hand as the four-year-old giggled and skipped beside her. Seth and Ben, the two rambunctious ten-year-olds that had often been the recipients of Jace and Jackson’s guidance over the years, were balancing precariously on the fallen tree that extended out into the rushing water. “Come on, Tammy!” Ben called out to the small girl as he hung from the tree, kicking his feet into the water as he taunted her. “Climb on the tree and see if you can reach the water!” Tammy pulled her hand from Laurie’s and started to run toward the water. She didn’t even get two steps away from Laurie when she was scooped up into Laurie’s arms and held protectively against her chest. “Absolutely not,” Laurie told them, her voice firm, with a touch of anger letting the young boys know she was deadly serious. “You two get over here right now.” Seth and Ben started to protest, but Laurie cut them off before they had a chance to really deny her. “Don’t make me come over there and get you,” she warned them seriously. “Oh, come on, Laurie,” Seth whined. “We won’t get hurt.”

54

Lynnette Bernard

“You two get your butts over here right now,” she told them in her firmest teacher voice. “And don’t even think about telling Tammy to go toward that stream. What are you thinking putting her in danger like that?” Both boys carefully made their way off the fallen tree and walked up the incline to stand beside Laurie and Tammy, their shoulders hunched and their heads hung in shame. Laurie stepped back and gently lowered Tammy to her feet, keeping firm hold of her hand. “We would never let Tammy get hurt,” Ben told Laurie quietly. “She’s our mate. It’s our job to protect her.” Laurie looked down at the two boys, her brow furrowed in confusion. Mate? What? “We love her,” Seth told her, his tone sincere. “She belongs to us.” Tammy let go of Laurie’s hand and walked toward the two boys, reaching out to take hold of their hands. “They’re mine,” she said happily as she looked over her shoulder at Laurie. Giggling, she turned and pulled the boys toward the main house. “Come on, let’s go play on the swings,” she told them as she tugged them along. Both boys smiled at the little imp before turning to run with her toward the small playground that Jace had built for the children of the pack. Laurie couldn’t help but smile at them as they ran at Tammy’s pace to keep even with her. They really were adorable together. She’s good with the young ones, Jackson. Jackson turned to face his friend and nodded his head. She is. She’ll be good with our cubs. She will. The two large wolves walked toward Laurie slowly. She recognized them immediately. The small moment of fear she felt at their appearance quickly left her. She sat down on the ground, smiling as the two wolves made their way toward her and sat down beside her to rest their heads on her thighs. Without hesitation, she ran her fingers through the soft hair of their bodies before hugging them closer to her. She didn’t really understand why she felt the need to cuddle them to her, but it was a need that she couldn’t deny. The happy growls coming from the two wolves made her smile. If she could have growled, she would have mirrored their sound. Their softness and their warmth made her feel safe and calm.

Laurie’s Loves

55

“You two sound pretty happy,” she told them, smiling as she pet them gently. The large black wolf turned his head toward her and looked up at her with the most beautiful blue eyes she had ever seen. Hauntingly familiar eyes. The slightly smaller, brown wolf did the same, his deep brown eyes tugging at her heart as she looked down at him. Jace, I need her. I know. I feel the same. Laurie lay back, unaware of the silent conversation the two men were having. As she settled back against the soft grass, the two wolves moved against her, resting their heads on her shoulders. “I love it here,” she told them as her hands stroked their backs. The constant happy growls from the two wolves made her smile. “You guys are so easy to please.” Her soft laughter made them both chuff in contentment at her joy. They cuddled in closer, unable to stand any space between them and their mate. Her warmth, her laughter, her gentle touch, called to them on a basic level. They found the peace they needed as she held them. The simple joy she gave them settled them in a way they could never have hoped for. “Those kids sure are adorable,” she whispered, stroking her fingers through the wolves’ silky pelts as she spoke. “I wish I had been able to have more.” She does want more kids, Jace. Jackson’s voice was relieved, and Jace could sense his happiness immediately. Jace remained silent. He hoped Laurie would continue with her thoughts so he could understand why she was so upset with Martha’s comment. “I always wanted a big family,” Laurie continued almost wistfully. “People would laugh at me when I said I wanted eight kids.” Eight! Jace couldn’t prevent his voice from echoing in Jackson’s head. Jackson’s burst of laughter made him look at his friend warily. I’m just getting used to the idea of having met our mate, Jackson. I need time to adjust to having eight children as well. Just think about what a great mother she’ll be, Jace. And how wonderful it will be to see her filled with our cubs and nurse them at her gorgeous breasts.

56

Lynnette Bernard

Jace couldn’t prevent the picture of Laurie pregnant and nursing their babes from filling his mind. Rather than feel panicked, he felt a sense of calm and rightness in it. And think how much we’re going to love getting her pregnant. Jackson’s voice was heavy with desire for their mate—a desire that Jace felt as well. The image of Laurie between them, naked in bed, welcoming them into her body, made Jace growl. He leaned into Laurie’s neck and inhaled her scent, relaxing as the smell of their mate reached deep into his soul. Laurie held him to her tightly as if she could sense that he needed her touch. When the dark brown wolf leaned into her, she held him tightly as well, needing the comfort of them both without really understanding it. “I know it’s too late for me to have eight kids now. I know that’s one dream I’ll have to let go. My life just didn’t turn out the way I’d hoped.” Her voice was sad as she spoke, her hands gently stroking the two wolves as she thought silently. “I guess it’s for the best. I couldn’t bring myself to have even one more child and raise it alone. I did that with my two kids, and I don’t want to do it alone again. I want a man who wants to be a part of his baby growing inside of me. I want him to want to touch me and feel his child growing. I want him to want that baby with every bit of his soul and share with me in the joys and the worries. I want my baby’s father to want to love me and his baby with everything he is, and protect and cherish us. I can’t go through all that again without someone who really loves me and wants our baby just as much as I do.” She hesitated a moment, sadness heavy in her heart. “You just can’t make someone love and care about you. I tried to get him to love me and the kids. He just didn’t.” Laurie shifted slowly, turning to gently kiss each wolf tenderly on the top of each of their heads. Both men growled at the contact, wanting to shift into their human forms so badly they ached. They wanted to hold their mate tenderly and kiss her until she forgot all about her sadness and thought only of the pleasure and happiness that they would give her. “It’s just not meant to be,” she said sadly. “I’m not meant to have that in my life I guess. And staying here at this wonderful ranch to be reminded every day that I’m not good enough to have any man desire me is too much.” Jace closed his eyes as she held him against her side tightly. His heart broke at her words.

Laurie’s Loves

57

Jackson, we have to show her today what she means to us. I don’t care that it’s too soon. Why should we hide our attraction to her? She’s our mate, and she damn well will know that we desire her. Jace, I’m with you one hundred percent. Maybe she’ll finally realize just how much she means to us when we claim her. “I’m going to really miss this place when I go home,” Laurie told them, sinking her hands into the softness of their fur, petting them as they moved restlessly against her. “I don’t even think I’ll be able to stay the full two weeks.” She was quiet for so long, Jace lifted his head to look down at her. Jackson soon followed his lead and leaned up to look down at Laurie, concerned by the sadness that he saw on her face. Laurie sat up, pulling away from them and standing slowly. Brushing off the seat of her jeans as she walked away from the two of them, she folded her arms across her chest and looked toward the rushing stream. “I can’t stay here feeling the way I do about Jace and Jackson,” she said finally, her voice barely a whisper as she spoke to herself. “I’ve never seen such kindness from men before. They really care about the people here. And they’re absolutely wonderful with Tammy.” Laurie closed her eyes and took a deep breath, trying to focus herself. “I’ve never seen such gentleness and honest caring with a child before. And the way she loves them!” Opening her eyes, she let her tears fall freely. “Kids know,” she whispered. “Kids always know.” Hugging her arms around her torso, she couldn’t prevent the deep feelings from echoing through her body. “I don’t really understand it. How can I feel so strongly about them so quickly? And for two men!” She walked toward the stream, wiping at her eyes as she went. Jace followed her silently, knowing Jackson was right beside him but never turning to look at his friend, unable to look anywhere but at the woman who had already captured his heart with her kindness and gentleness. Laurie turned to look at the two wolves who seemed to sense her anguish. “There’s something wrong with me,” she told them quietly. “I’ve never even kissed anyone but my ex-husband. I’ve never dated. I have no experience with men. And here I am having such erotic dreams about two men that are the kindest men I’ve ever met.” She hesitated briefly, sighing sadly. “I don’t know what it is about them, but they call to my heart. And it’s something I’ve never felt before. How can I want them so much? It’s

58

Lynnette Bernard

like I can feel their sorrow. I can sense their feelings.” She walked toward the water’s edge, aware that the two wolves mirrored her moves, feeling a sense of rightness as they walked beside her. Turning to face the two beautiful wolves, she reached out and touched the top of their heads, sliding her fingers back into their fur to lightly scratch them behind their ears. Both wolves leaned into her touch, and she felt the rumbling of their soft growls against her hands. She smiled down at them and leaned forward to kiss the top of each of their heads quickly, laughing with pure delight at their contentment. Leaning back, she stood silently for a moment, staring down at them. Her brows furrowed in confusion as she looked into their eyes, the crystal blue of the black wolf and the soft brown of the dark brown wolf, and felt a flash of recognition that made her step back as a vision hit her of the two men who haunted her waking and sleeping hours. Kneeling down before them, she reached out to touch each wolf tenderly. “You remind me of Jace and Jackson,” she whispered, standing slowly and looking down at them with eyes that were quickly filling with tears. “I really am losing my mind. I am so desperate for them to be with me, I’ve given in to this fantasy of believing I can feel their thoughts, and dream that they could want me.” She turned and walked toward the stream, wiping at her eyes angrily. She hugged herself and looked toward the crystal-blue stream. “And what kind of sick slut am I that I want both of them?” She stepped up onto the fallen tree that she had warned Ben and Seth off of just moments before and made her way out across it to balance herself several feet above the stream. “See, that’s exactly what’s wrong with me,” she told them both as she turned toward them, teetering dangerously as she faced them. Here I am fantasizing about those two incredible, gorgeous men. I’m so pathetic.” She was quiet for so long as she looked down at the water, each man couldn’t prevent their worry from transmitting to the other. Laurie took a deep breath and hugged her arms around her waist. “I’ve lived my life alone, without any love, and I just can’t do it anymore.” She was quiet as she looked out across the stream, swallowing to push back the tears. “I can’t live my life with only fantasy dreams to give

Laurie’s Loves

59

me the love I want.” Her voice was beyond sad, and it made both men feel true fear at her heartbreak. She turned then and wiped at her eyes. Losing her footing, she fell forward into the stream, pulling herself up as quickly as she could but not before becoming totally soaked in the uncomfortably cold water. Before either man could shift, Laurie righted herself and stormed out of the water, her clothes drenched and her sweater hanging heavily on her body from the weight of the water. “Okay, God,” she muttered as she strode past the wolves and headed toward the ranch house. “I get the hint. Cool off, Laurie girl! Stop your crazy thoughts about men who could never want you!” Grabbing her small backpack, she flung it over her shoulder as she walked quickly and determinedly away from the stream, making it to the ranch house in less than fifteen minutes. By the time she arrived, she was shivering violently. Although the morning had turned quite warm, she felt cold down to her very core, and she knew she had better warm up quickly or risk getting sick. As she stepped up onto the big deck behind the house, she saw Martha open the sliding glass doors to meet her, her eyes filled with concern. “Are you all right, Laurie?” she asked her, looking to her alpha and beta quickly before turning her attention to the woman who would soon be her queen—if these two men would just claim her and not waste any more precious time. “I fell into the stream, Martha,” Laurie explained quickly, shivering as she stood before the woman who had been so welcoming and kind to her. “Do you think you could get me a towel so I could dry off a little before I walk into the house?” “Nonsense, child,” Martha interrupted her, taking her arm and leading her into the house and then to the laundry room off to the right of the kitchen. “Take your clothes off, and leave them in the sink beside the washing machine. I’ll take care of them for you.” She opened the door to the room and quickly ushered her inside. “There are clothes on top of the washing machine right now that you can put on. They’re clean, just waiting to be given to Jace and Jackson. I’m sure they wouldn’t mind you wearing them so you can get up to your room with your modesty intact.”

60

Lynnette Bernard

Martha laughed to herself, taking great joy in the fact that both men in wolf form followed them into the room, growling their pleasure at their mate wearing their clothes. The joy that filled Martha threatened to explode within her chest. She loved that her boys had found their mate. Now she just had to get them to claim her. And claim her quickly. Then their destinies to lead their pack to a successful and loving future would be fulfilled. “Thank you, Martha,” Laurie nearly cried, sighing with relief. She turned toward the washing machine and saw that the wolves were watching her silently. She thought it odd that Martha closed the door to the room, leaving her alone with the wolves, but pushed it aside quickly. “I’m so cold,” she spoke out loud as she dropped her backpack to the floor. She pulled off her sweater, unbuttoned her shirt and pulled it from her body, careful to place them into the sink beside the washing machine. She toed off her sneakers and pulled at her soaking wet jeans, cursing her curves as the material refused to budge easily. The reminder of her less-than-petite size caused another pain of realization in her chest. “Look at you, Laurie!” she muttered to herself as she threw her jeans into the sink. “How could those men ever desire you when they have so many women here who would be just perfect for them?” She pushed her hair back with an angry swipe and wiped at the tears that she couldn’t prevent herself from shedding. “I’m sure Janine would be willing to do whatever they wanted, and they would enjoy every minute of it.” Laurie wiped her cheek slowly, taking a deep breath as she resigned herself to the truth of the situation. “And they deserve to have someone beautiful and young, and with a perfect body.” Jace growled at the mention of Janine’s name. Jackson mirrored his anger, and they both found themselves stepping toward Laurie and rubbing their shoulders against her thighs, trying their best to soothe her. “Like I would ever have a chance with those two wonderful men!” Laurie muttered. Taking a deep breath, she tried to calm herself. Looking down, she smiled sadly as she saw the intense stare of the two wolves as she stood before them in nothing but her bra and panties. “Okay, fellas,” she told them finally, laughing softly as she heard the two wolves’ constant growls. “If I didn’t know better, I’d think you were actually getting a kick out of this.” She laughed despite the way her heart

Laurie’s Loves

61

was good and truly broken, and pulled one of the fluffy maroon towels from the cabinet above the dryer. She wiped at her face quickly then tried to squeeze as much of the water from her hair as possible. Putting aside the towel, she peeled off her pink panties and matching bra. Quickly toweling her body down, she reached out to grab the black T-shirt and the red checked flannel shirt from the stack of clothes that looked like they had been thrown on top of the dryer. Pulling the T-shirt over her head, she smoothed it down over her hips then reached for the flannel shirt and slipped her arms into it, buttoning it up quickly. She was grateful that the shirts were large enough so that they came to just below her knees. The walk to her room wouldn’t exactly be a walk of shame after all. Quickly placing the rest of her wet clothes and sneakers in the sink, she picked up her backpack and turned to walk toward the laundry room door. Both wolves walked toward her and rubbed against her legs soothingly. “Okay, boys,” she whispered sadly, “I have to get upstairs and shower before I freeze to death.” The two wolves crowded her against the washing machine, licking at her hands as she reached down to pet them. Their soft chuffing noises soothed her, but she couldn’t get rid of the feeling of shame and embarrassment that bled from her. “I have to leave before I make a total fool of myself. Something is wrong with me. I’ve never been such a slut in my life. I’m so ashamed.” She settled her backpack across one shoulder, stepped out of the room, and found Martha waiting for her. Martha smiled at her and then at the two wolves. Laurie had an uneasy feeling that the older woman knew something she wasn’t about to tell. “Thanks, Martha,” she said quickly. “I’m freezing! I have to go up and take a hot shower.” “I’ll check on you later,” Martha offered. “No. I’ll be fine. Really,” Laurie insisted. “I’m so tired, I think I’ll take a nap for a while.” “If you’re sure,” Martha said softly. Laurie nodded. “I’m sure.” She turned to walk away and stopped to turn and face Martha once again. Without realizing that she did it, she took both the T-shirt and flannel shirt in her hands and lifted them to her face to inhale

62

Lynnette Bernard

deeply, closing her eyes as the scent of Jace and Jackson surrounded her. Although their scent made her feel a peace she had never felt before, it also made her experience a deep sadness. When she opened her eyes and looked at Martha, there were tears in her eyes. “Martha, I’ll be leaving in the morning,” she told the kind woman quietly. “It’s been very nice knowing you.” With that, she turned and left the kitchen, making her way through the ranch house and up the stairs to her room, closing the door quietly behind her and locking it. Walking into her bathroom, she carefully removed the shirts she wore, placing them almost reverently on the counter beside the sink, intending to put them back on after her shower. She knew in her heart that she could never truly belong to the two men, but she could gain a little comfort by being surrounded by their scent, even if it was just for a little while. **** Martha watched her future queen leave the room, feeling Laurie’s sorrow deep in her heart. She turned to face Jace and Jackson, concern on her face as she watched them shift to their human forms. “She can’t leave,” Jackson spoke first, turning to Jace with an expression of desolating sadness. “We’ve just found her.” “She’s not leaving,” Jace told him firmly, his voice strong with determination. “We’ll talk with her when she wakes up, and this will all be settled. We will claim her tonight.” Martha reached out and handed the delicate bracelet to Jace. “See that you do,” she told him sternly. Jace took the bracelet and looked down at it in his open palm. Looking to Jackson, he nodded briefly and started walking toward his room, unconcerned with his state of undress. Where are you going, Jace? Jace kept on walking, knowing his beta would follow. Jackson took a deep breath and tried to calm his own anger. Laurie needs to know that what she’s feeling is true and beautiful. There was determination in Jackson’s voice as he spoke to his best friend.

Laurie’s Loves

63

Jace nodded and started walking up the stairs toward his room. She doesn’t understand the attraction. She doesn’t know that this is the way of triad mates. She needs to know that what she is and how she feels is how the Fates have destined her to be. He turned to face Jackson, the anger and frustration evident on his face. I will not have her saying such things about herself ever again. Jace’s jaw clenched as he struggled to control his anger. Jackson reached out and touched his shoulder, doing his best to help his alpha calm down. “We’ll show her that what she feels for us is how we feel about her,” Jackson told him quietly. Jace took a deep breath and closed his eyes as he fought to control his anger. When he opened them to look at Jackson, they were completely golden. “My wolf is fighting me, Jackson.” Jackson nodded and stepped forward to walk beside Jace. “Mine, too,” he told him honestly. “He wants to protect her and take away the hurt she’s feeling. We have to show her that she is exactly what we need and want. And not in a temporary way. She needs to understand that this is forever. And nothing to be ashamed of.” Jace stopped before his bedroom door and turned to face his friend. “I’m going to take a shower to try and calm myself. Then I’m going to move my things into the room that we will share with our mate. And I suggest you do the same.”

64

Lynnette Bernard

Chapter 8 Martha chuckled as she looked out the kitchen window over the sink at the scene that was unfolding before her. Laurie had several of the children of the pack, along with Aidan and Colin, lined against one side of the open yard. Butler and Alexander had several of the pack’s adult males lined up on the other side. Laurie was huddling the children around her and speaking to them secretly. The children listened to her intently, looked over at the line of men briefly then returned their attention to Laurie. Before Martha’s eyes, the children lined up facing the men, their young faces fierce and determined as they readied to play football. There was a flurry of movement, and the children ran toward their goal with Laurie cheering them on as she ran with them, turning to catch the ball that Aidan threw toward her. She tucked it against her stomach and ran toward the goal as the children threw themselves into the opposing team to slow them down so Laurie could make a touchdown. Martha laughed out loud, covering her mouth as excitement and pure joy escaped her. Her heart was filled with such happiness at the sight before her. Jace and Jackson walked into the kitchen at that moment and stopped to look at each other and smile at the older woman’s obvious enjoyment. “What’s so funny, Martha?” Jace asked her, laughing softly. The woman’s good mood was contagious. “Your mate,” Martha answered, pointing out the window, her eyes sparkling with enjoyment. Jackson walked up behind her, followed closely by Jace, as they looked out at the scene of controlled chaos before them. The smile on Jace’s face disappeared immediately when he saw Butler reach for Laurie, pick her up effortlessly, and bring her down to the ground. His angry growls echoed through the kitchen as he raced out through the deck door to protect their mate.

Laurie’s Loves

65

Jackson was right behind him, running to the field, prepared to do whatever it took to care for Laurie. When they reached the open lawn, they stopped suddenly as they saw all the cubs pile on top of Butler to knock him off Laurie. She laid on her back, breathing heavily, the football still clutched to her chest. She was laughing as she stood and high-fived Ben and Seth once they helped pull her to her feet. “That was awesome, Laurie!” Seth yelled, unable to keep his excitement contained. Laurie laughed and smiled down at him. “I couldn’t have done it without you guys,” she told them all sincerely. “Let’s do it again.” The group quickly huddled together, once again whispering their plan to get by the wall of men. Both Jace and Jackson stepped forward and joined the men who huddled together to make their own plans. “We’re in,” Jace told them, joining in their planning. The men moved aside quickly to enfold both men in their midst. “Just so you know, Alpha,” Alexander warned him quietly, “we were taking it easy on them when we started, but the cubs, Laurie, Aidan, and Colin have been playing for real. I don’t know how they keep coming up with plays that spin us in circles, but they are.” “But we’re not playing to win,” Butler admitted. “It’s been a long time since the pups have had such fun. But if they score one more touchdown, I’m not holding back anymore.” The men laughed, bringing a smile to Jace and Jackson’s faces. Both men knew Butler would just as soon hack off an arm than cause pain or sadness to any woman or child. None of the men would. The intense pride Jace felt about his pack at that moment nearly overwhelmed him. He looked at Jackson and saw that his beta understood and was feeling the same way. The two teams were soon facing each other once again. Laurie’s eyebrows rose in surprise as she saw Jace and Jackson now a part of the other team. She blushed with embarrassment and thought briefly about leaving the game. She couldn’t be so close to the two men who made her long to be with them, and not be embarrassed by her thoughts. But she realized that if she did that, she would draw attention to herself and possibly make them aware of her attraction, which she could never do. Instead, she smiled and waved at them, her heart fluttering a bit as she took in the pure

66

Lynnette Bernard

masculine strength that oozed from both men. She mentally chastised herself. She had to stay in control of her desires. After her shower she had been too wound up to take a nap. She had been determined to check out and go home, but when she had come down to say good-bye, she had seen the children milling about the backyard. Their adorable faces and excitement drew her to them immediately, and she soon found herself organizing the football game. She knew it was her weakness. She never could walk away from children. She wanted them to enjoy themselves, and she would do her best to help them do just that. She could always leave later. And she was determined she would never let Jace and Jackson know of her desire for them. She would just enjoy what little time she had with them and bring the memories of their kindness along with her when she went home. Pulling herself back to the present, she focused on the game. She was determined her team would make another touchdown. Once again, the children ran, and Aidan threw the ball toward Laurie, who in turn tossed it to Tammy. The little girl’s legs pumped furiously as she ran toward Alexander. Laurie tried with all her strength to hold back Butler from reaching Tammy, but his strength was too much for her. She heard the menacing growl before she realized who it came from and found herself plucked away from Butler and enfolded in Jace’s arms as he brought them both down to the ground, Laurie ending up on top of him as he held her securely against him. “Go, Tammy!” Laurie shouted, pushing herself up on Jace’s chest to look at the little girl as she ran. She laughed out loud as she saw Tammy squealing in joy as Alexander picked her up and carefully brought her to the ground with him. She gazed down to look at Jace, her face filled with joy. “She got so far!” she told him happily as she tried to get up off of him. Was it just her imagination, or did Jace’s arms tighten around her waist briefly before letting her go? She stood up, bending down to offer him her hand to help him up. Jace looked up at her silently, a mixture of emotions filling his eyes. Laurie pulled him up quickly then turned to run toward Tammy and scooped her up into her arms. “You did so good, honey!” she praised the little girl, kissing her cheek lightly before setting her down and taking her hand, running with her back to their huddle.

Laurie’s Loves

67

Jackson came up behind Jace, touching his shoulder then clapping him on the back. “You lucky bastard!” he told him quietly. Jace turned to him and smiled, his eyes glowing gold briefly as his wolf paced restlessly. He nodded once then turned toward the playing field, walking toward the huddle of men. He was suddenly very happy to be participating in this game. Once again, Aidan threw the ball, but this time Seth caught it. As the men ran toward the young boy, Laurie launched herself at Jackson, reaching around his waist and holding him back so he couldn’t reach Seth—not that he gave much of a fight. Turning to face her, his arms went around her body, and he pulled her flush up against him, hugging her tightly as he brought them both down to the ground so that Laurie ended up on top of him. He couldn’t contain his happiness as he looked up and saw Laurie grinning down at him. He was even more content that her body lay so completely on top of his. He felt his cock harden immediately as she shifted her hips against him as she tried to remove herself from his hold. “I’m sorry,” she told him, embarrassed. “I’m too heavy. I hope I didn’t hurt you.” Jackson held her tight, forcing her to stop her movements. She looked down at him, confused, but he could see her embarrassment and wondered if she could possibly be more adorable. “Darlin’,” he told her quietly, his voice deep with emotion, “you could stay right where you are for the rest of your life and make me a very happy man.” He smiled at the shocked expression on his mate’s face and knew he couldn’t hold back anymore. “The only thing that would make me happier is if we were totally naked right now.” He winked and playfully kissed her chin. Laurie gasped and pulled back, unsure what to do or how to react. He had to be teasing. Wasn’t he teasing? Of course he was teasing! Men like him and Jace couldn’t possibly be attracted to someone like her. Right? Pulling out of his hold, she stood up quickly and went over to her team, bumping knuckles with Seth as he joined them. She looked over her shoulder at Jackson, blushing immediately when she saw him wink at her, and turned back to the huddle to plot with her teammates. “Laurie, are we winning?” Tammy asked her excitedly, holding onto Laurie’s hand as she bounced on the balls of her feet.

68

Lynnette Bernard

“We sure are, sweetness,” Colin answered, leaning down to kiss his daughter’s forehead quickly. “We’re creaming them!” Ben’s excited voice chimed in. “I think the men are going to make sure that we don’t score again,” Colin told them, laughing. “I think we’ve bruised their egos. And I think our alpha is going to make sure that they show us we can’t get the better of them.” Laurie looked at Jace and smiled, watching him as his serious expression melted into a heart-stopping smile that reached out to tug at her very soul. She loved the way his eyes sparkled with his enjoyment. Watching him for a moment, her chest felt heavy as she had the sudden feeling that the leader of this combined family hadn’t had much fun in his life. She was happy that she could give him this little bit of joy. She wished she could give him much more. But she couldn’t. She had to leave—even though, with every ounce of her being, she wanted to stay here with all of them and take the chance of being a part of their family. “One more play, and then we have to stop,” Aidan told the kids, smiling. “Your parents are ready to take you back to your cabins to get ready for lunch. It’s already late for lunch as it is.” All of the children turned to look at the back deck of the main house. Sure enough, it was filled with their parents, enjoying the impromptu game. Laurie was happy to see that they were all enjoying themselves and knew the kids were happy to be playing. She saw Martha wave to her, and she happily waved back, a feeling of belonging overwhelming her at the kindness of the older woman. She felt as if she had her grandmother back with her. It was going to hurt big time when she left. “Well, guys,” Laurie said quietly, leaning in to the huddle so they wouldn’t be overheard. “Let’s make this one a good one. I have an idea.” Jace watched Laurie as she turned away from him. His wolf was pushing against his chest, demanding that he claim her, but he knew he had to bide his time. That brief moment when he had held her luscious body against his had nearly made him lose control. It wasn’t just his wolf who demanded the claiming. The man in him wanted her more than he had ever wanted anyone in his life. Despite his determination not to succumb to the mating need, he knew that the Fates had chosen well for him and Jackson.

Laurie’s Loves

69

Laurie was perfect for them. And he couldn’t wait until they could show her just how good it would be with them. The children lining up to face them once again pulled him out of his thoughts. Jackson was to his right, ready for the game to continue. Before they realized it, the children were running in all directions, confusing the men temporarily. Aidan threw the ball, and both Jace and Jackson could see that Laurie would be the recipient. They ran toward her, their growls warning off any of the other men who might try to go after Laurie, the men deferring to them immediately, giving them the lead. Their men knew better than to touch their mate. As they neared her, Laurie tucked the ball into Tammy’s hands and began to run toward Jace and Jackson, stumbling before she reached them and falling heavily to the ground with a moan. The men froze. Laurie lay still before them. With their hearts pounding in their chests, they made their way to her quickly and gently turned her over. Her eyes were closed, and she wasn’t moving. “Laurie,” Jace whispered, pulling her gently into his arms as he sat on the ground and lifted her easily to cradle her on his lap. “Please, honey, open your eyes.” Jackson was kneeling beside them, holding her hand in his as he reached up and pushed back the length of hair that had fallen forward and covered her face. “Sweetheart, please,” he whispered, leaning forward to kiss her forehead lightly. The sudden cheer that went up from the pack members watching the game from the deck shocked them. Looking up, they saw Tammy doing a little victory dance as she threw down the football as she made the final touchdown. Jace looked at Jackson in shock, then down at Laurie as they felt her shaking. “Did she make it?” Laurie asked, laughing as she looked up at the two stunned men. Jace passed his hands across Laurie’s body, unbelieving that their mate had actually faked getting injured so Tammy could score the touchdown. “You aren’t hurt?” he asked her, his voice concerned. “I’m fine,” Laurie told him, laughing as she tried to remove herself from his lap.

70

Lynnette Bernard

But Jace was having none of it. He tightened his grip and held her still on his lap. “You scared us out of our minds. And you were just playing?” His voice was hard as he spoke, his fear turning to anger. “Laurie, we thought you had seriously injured yourself,” Jackson told her quietly, reaching out to touch her face gently. Laurie looked at both men and smiled. “All’s fair in love and war,” she teased. “Or football.” Before she could say another word, both men surrounded her, and she found herself lying back on the ground with them nearly on top of her. She was stunned into silence. Jace rested his forehead against her cheek, nuzzling into the right side of her neck. “You will never do that again,” he told her quietly, his voice firm, but she could hear the desperation in it. Jackson leaned into her face, kissing her cheek gently before breathing deeply against the left side of her neck. “I thought my heart would stop beating when I saw you go down and not move.” Laurie rubbed their backs gently, unable to understand the concern they had for her but knowing she had to comfort them. “I’m sorry,” she whispered. “We were just trying to confuse you so the kids could score.” Both men leaned back to look down at her. She could see the worry in their eyes. She didn’t understand. No man had ever worried about her. And to have these two men show her such concern unnerved her. They couldn’t have feelings for her, could they? And both of them? No way! Before she could contemplate the unlikely possibilities, Jace leaned down and gently covered her lips with his own, tasting her with exquisite tenderness. She looked up at him in shock when he pulled back and saw the raw hunger in his eyes. She thought she must be mistaken, but it seemed as if his eyes shone with a beautiful golden glow. She turned to Jackson and saw the same glow, opening her mouth to speak but finding Jackson’s mouth claiming hers just as tenderly before she could say a word. What the hell? Every instinct in her body screamed at her to get up and run. And that’s exactly what she did. Well, not exactly run, but she did pull herself out of their embrace and power-walked herself into the main house, smiling and nodding at the happy parents as she passed them. She didn’t stop until she was safely in her bedroom with the door locked solidly behind her.

Laurie’s Loves

71

What had just happened? She walked into the bathroom and closed the door behind her, pulling off her clothes and quickly climbing into the shower stall and turning on the warm water for her third shower of the day. She stood under the soothing spray as her body shook with fear and, if she had to admit it to herself, desire. Those men couldn’t want her. But deny it as she would, it didn’t change the fact that they had gently embraced her and had cared for her. And their kisses were heart-wrenching and sweet. And their hard erections were luscious against her hips! God help her, she was scared, and suddenly very tired. **** Jace stood beside Jackson, watching in amazement as members of their pack came up to both him and Jackson, each praising Laurie and her natural ability with the children. This simple game of touch football had brought such fun to the pack. Both men stood there for nearly an hour, accepting the compliments, proud of their mate. It was beginning. The prophecy was being fulfilled. The children of their pack were being pulled together and growing as a family. Never had their cubs been so happy. And both Jace and Jackson knew why. It was because of Laurie. They walked together to their office and slowly took their seats. Their desks faced each other with only five feet between them. Over the years, they had realized that having separate offices wasn’t efficient in the running of the ranch or in the running of the pack. They were a team, and they worked better when they were together. The level of comfort that they felt by their close proximity was something that eased both their personalities. Jace was calmer, and Jackson was more secure. Now that Laurie was with them, they finally felt a sense of peace that both of them knew they had been lacking. She bridged their needs, their emotions, and their worries. With her so close to them, they felt a sense of rightness, of relief. Jace looked across at Jackson and smiled. “She sure tasted sweet, didn’t she, Jackson,” he said quietly. Jackson nodded and relaxed against the high back of his office chair. “The sweetest,” he agreed. “And the feel of her body under mine nearly

72

Lynnette Bernard

made me take her right there. I don’t think I’ll be able to hold back much longer, Jace.” Jace nodded. “I know,” he said finally. “She seemed to be open to both of us. Maybe we’ll be able to convince her of the bond we’ll have. I already feel it growing stronger every day. She has to be feeling it, too, even if she doesn’t understand it.” Jackson was quiet for a long time. “We need to make her understand, Jace,” he said finally, his voice filled with emotion. Jace nodded and leaned back in his chair, making it tip back until he was resting at an angle. “I think it’s about time we step forward and claim our mate.” They were quiet for a while, each man consumed with his own thoughts. “Do you feel it, too?” Jace asked Jackson as he looked up from his desk to stare at his best friend. Jackson nodded. He didn’t need Jace to clarify. He knew he was talking about the influence Laurie had on them both. “My wolf is fighting me to let him out and claim her.” Jace nodded. “Mine, too,” he admitted. “Even though my wolf is fighting me, I feel a calming like I’ve never felt before.” “She’s good for us,” Jackson said quietly. “She’ll make a good queen. And a sexy mate.” Jackson’s grin was infectious, and Jace couldn’t help but smile. Jace rubbed at his perpetual hard-on and laughed. “I can’t get rid of this,” he told Jackson, trying to push his cock to a more comfortable position within his jeans. “You’re preaching to the choir, Jace,” Jackson told him sighing, unsuccessfully trying to adjust his constantly hard cock behind his zipper.

Laurie’s Loves

73

Chapter 9 “You’re nothing but a whore, and an ugly one at that!” The voice echoed in Laurie’s head. She turned into her pillow, pushing her hand against her ear to stop the ranting that tore at her heart. A sob escaped her as she tried to calm herself. It was just a dream, she kept telling herself, but the rough, deep voice that haunted her was very real, and the words that were spoken were ones that she had heard often. “No one will ever want you. Look at you. Your body disgusts me. I must have been crazy to marry you. You’re good for nothing. You’re stupid. You’re a terrible mother. There’s not one redeeming quality in you.” “Please stop,” Laurie’s tortured voice echoed through the darkened room. She didn’t want to remember or experience the cruelty again, but the dream continued. A baby’s cry cut through the silence of the house. She tried to lift herself from the bed, tried to pull away from him to go to her child, but his strength was too much for her to fight. “You’re not going anywhere!” He pushed her down and pinned her hands above her head. “You spoil those brats. They don’t need you right now.” The tears slid silently down Laurie’s face until they nearly choked her. “It’s not real. It’s just a dream. I’m at the Circle Three Ranch. I’m safe. He can’t hurt me anymore.” Her voice was hoarse from the tears she couldn’t help but shed. She tried to push the memory away but couldn’t. She looked up at the ceiling, praying he would stop his ranting. She couldn’t crumble. She had to stay strong. She wanted to make her way to her daughter and hold that precious bundle against her chest and pray that her baby girl would be smart enough and lucky enough to find a man who truly loved and respected her. She ached to hold her son and prayed that he

74

Lynnette Bernard

would become a man of honor who would love and cherish his wife some day. “I’m going to have to decide if I want to stay with a woman who doesn’t give me fireworks during sex,” he told her angrily, pushing her toward her side of the bed as he turned his back to her. Thankfully, he settled beside her without another word, and within moments she heard his even breathing, not daring to move until his loud snores filled the room. Her babies’ cries pulled her out of her misery, and she quickly made her way to her children’s room. Opening the tie of her nightgown to expose her engorged breasts, she lifted both her daughter and her son into her arms before settling in the big rocking chair. Holding them against her breasts, with pillows under her arms to support her precious bundles, she sighed contentedly as they latched onto her nipples and began to suckle. She sang to her babies quietly, loving how they settled against her breasts and cuddled tightly against her. She would do anything to protect these dear little ones. Even if it meant ruining her own life and committing herself to a future of loneliness in the process. **** The sudden projection of Laurie’s dream had Jace and Jackson both gasping for breath, anger consuming them as they were witness to the abuse Laurie had experienced. Both men were on their feet immediately. Furniture was shoved aside, and growls filled the air as they rushed from their office to run up the stairs to Laurie’s bedroom. Jace hesitated as they stood outside her bedroom door. He turned to Jackson, unsure what they should do. At the sound of Laurie’s crying, all bets were off. Jace broke the lock on the door with one push, and they both rushed into the darkened room. Laurie’s huddled form was trembling under the blankets in the middle of the bed. Jace couldn’t stop his growl from escaping when he heard the whimper of pain that was torn from Laurie. The vision of her dream was clear in his head, and he could feel her fear and pain as it wracked her body. Jackson closed the door quietly behind them, doing his best to secure it to protect

Laurie’s Loves

75

Laurie’s privacy. They made their way to the bed as one, determined to comfort and love their mate. The time for waiting had come to an end. They walked carefully toward the bed and slowly climbed up to lie beside the woman who had made them finally see a future with a possibility of happiness and love. Jace lay to her right, and Jackson lay to her left. Very gently, they pressed their bodies against hers and carefully caressed her arms and hair, pulling the blanket down slightly to reveal her face so they could wake her gently. Jace smiled as he saw that she was again wearing their shirts. He looked to Jackson, who couldn’t help but feel his heart bursting with emotion that his mate was comforted by their scents. “Laurie, baby,” Jackson whispered against her face as he placed a gentle kiss on her cheek. “Wake up, honey.” Jace kissed her forehead and groaned as Laurie leaned against him and reached out to wrap her arms around him. Jackson smiled at the way Laurie cuddled against Jace and let out a growl of possession as Laurie reached back and grabbed his hand, interlacing her fingers with his and wrapping his arm around her to press it gently against her breasts. She knows we belong beside her, Jackson. Jackson nodded. She knows we belong inside her, Jace. Jace closed his eyes, willing his wolf to stay under control. He would not scare or hurt Laurie in any way. Judging from her dream, she had been abused repeatedly over the course of her marriage. He was amazed that she was able to maintain her kindness and caring despite how she had been treated. Laurie’s whimpers of fear and pain slowly faded away. Her trembling body slowly relaxed between the two men, and she cuddled against them, pulling at them both to get their bodies closer to hers. Jace smiled down at her, unable to quell the desire he felt for her. Jace, I want to try something. Jace looked across their sleeping mate to look at his friend, raising his eyebrows in question. Very carefully, Jackson unlaced his fingers from Laurie’s and pulled back from her to leave a few inches between his body and hers. He watched silently as Laurie’s brow furrowed, and she whimpered quietly. Her hand

76

Lynnette Bernard

reached out behind her, searching for Jackson, but he edged farther back on his side of the bed so she couldn’t reach him. What are you doing, Jackson? Testing our mate. Laurie turned away from Jace’s body and moved restlessly across the bed as she searched out Jackson. He couldn’t keep the smile from his face as she finally lay next to him and reached out to throw her arm across his waist and pull herself toward his body, lifting her right leg and hooking it across his hip to settle herself intimately against him. She tucked her head into his neck and breathed in deeply, sighing contentedly as she settled against his chest. Jackson’s arms surrounded her immediately. Jackson’s possessive growl soothed her further, and Laurie kissed his chest lightly before cuddling deeper into his embrace. Moving restlessly, she reached behind her, searching for Jace. She’s reaching for me, Jackson. Jace hesitated just a moment, his heart nearly pounding out of his chest as he realized that Laurie was trying to get to him. When he heard her whimper and saw that she was getting upset, he moved toward her and took her searching hand, pushing his body against hers so that she was sandwiched between the two of them, her back to his chest as he spooned against her. He couldn’t stop the growl of contentment that escaped him. Laurie turned onto her back and reached out to take both men’s hands in her own, bringing them up to her lips to tenderly kiss them before settling them against her breasts. She sighed, and both men watched as a peaceful smile transformed her face. Jace, she’s more than I’ve ever hoped for. Jackson leaned closer to Laurie and kissed her temple lightly, nuzzling against her hair and breathing in the sweet scent of their mate. Jace had no words for the strength of feeling that overwhelmed him. He leaned in toward Laurie and kissed her cheek lightly, closing his eyes and thanking the Fates that he had been proven wrong and that they had actually found their true mate. He knew in his heart that that was exactly what Laurie was. A sudden vision of Laurie lying between them, her belly heavy with their child, flashed through his mind, and he couldn’t prevent the image from flashing to Jackson. Jackson’s responding growl echoed his own.

Laurie’s Loves

77

Jace couldn’t stop himself from gently pulling his hand from Laurie’s and tenderly covering her belly. He smiled at the contented sigh Laurie released at his touch, and he looked up to face Jackson. “We’re going to love her and fill her with our seed throughout the night, and if the Fates are kind to us, she’ll be pregnant by morning,” he whispered, his voice strong and determined despite its softness. “We need to give her the choice, Jace,” Jackson whispered back. Laurie reached down and covered Jace’s hand with her own, smiling in her sleep. Pulling her left hand down her body, bringing Jackson’s hand with hers, she placed his hand on her abdomen, beside Jace’s, then covered both their hands with hers and pushed them into her belly. Jace smiled and rubbed his hand across her stomach, aching to know the reality of their baby growing within her womb. I think she’s already chosen, Jackson. Not allowing himself to hesitate anymore, he leaned forward and lightly kissed his mate’s soft lips. Pulling back, he smiled down at her as a sigh of contentment passed her lips. “Laurie,” he whispered, unable to wait a moment longer to claim her. “Mmmm?” she answered, not able to pull herself out of the warm feeling of being held so tenderly by the two of them. “Baby, we need you to wake up so we can talk to you,” Jace whispered, reaching up to carefully push back the hair that had fallen across her cheek to tuck it gently behind her ear. Laurie pulled herself from the dream she was having, sighing contentedly at the feel of Jace and Jackson holding her between them. “I don’t want to wake up,” she mumbled, content as she lay on her back as each man rested his hand upon her stomach while they nuzzled against her neck, kissing her gently. Turning slightly, she looked at Jackson, then at Jace, trying to pull herself back to reality, but it was difficult to do when her dreams were lying, so real, beside her. “Kiss me before I wake up,” she whispered. Jace grinned at Jackson then leaned forward and took their mate’s lips in what could only be described as a claiming. Laurie turned her body into his and carded her fingers through his hair, pulling him closer to her as she opened her mouth to accept his seeking tongue. The taste of him exploded in her mouth, and she moaned against the softness of his lips.

78

Lynnette Bernard

The taste of her called Jace’s wolf to the forefront, and he allowed it to revel in the feel of their mate giving them exactly what they needed. He was overwhelmed with desire, and he knew he wouldn’t be able to hold back from mating with her for much longer. A growl of possession escaped him, and he tightened his arms around her body, feeling Jackson holding onto her tightly as he moved closer to her. Laurie moaned and pushed her body against his, loving the feel of his hard body against her softness. When his lips left hers, she was panting with desire, but she felt a need to include Jackson in their closeness. Turning, she found him waiting to claim her mouth, and she opened to him easily, his taste having the same effect on her. She belonged to both of them. She knew it deep down in her soul. Tears formed in her eyes as she felt the fear of losing her heart to these two men, knowing that they couldn’t possibly want her as well. Not in the way that she wanted them. “Baby, why are you crying?” Jace asked her, wiping away the tears from her face with the pad of his thumb. “I’m going to have to leave because I can’t stay here knowing how much I want to be with you both,” she whispered, looking at both men sadly. “There’s nothing wrong with wanting to be with us, honey,” Jackson told her quietly, leaning forward to brush his lips across hers once again. “And you won’t be leaving,” Jace told her seriously. “You belong with us.” Laurie closed her eyes and sighed as she tried to calm herself. “I really feel that I do belong with you,” she admitted softly. “But this is just for now, and that’s okay.” She closed her eyes and settled back onto the mattress, lying on her back and resting her hands gently on her stomach. Both men watched her silently, unable to keep the sense of peace and happiness from rushing through their bodies. The sight of her safe, content, and happy, lying between them, humbled them in a way that they could never have believed. Knowing that she was happy to be with them, that she chose them, even though she thought she would have to leave, made everything in the universe fall into place. In that one moment, even though they knew they would have to wait just a little longer before claiming her, they both felt the sense of rightness in their mate’s acceptance of them.

Laurie’s Loves

79

Jace gently stroked Laurie’s face, leaning forward to kiss her lips, his tongue reaching out to taste the flavor that was their mate. He sighed contentedly and leaned back to rest his head next to hers on her pillow. He smiled as she turned toward him and kissed his chin softly, a gentle sound of contentment leaving her lips. Turning toward Jackson, she kissed his neck slowly, breathing deeply and sighing happily as his head also joined hers on her pillow. Both men couldn’t stop the low growls that escaped them. Laurie’s body was sandwiched between them, and they felt her tension leave her body as she leaned against them, falling back asleep within moments. They settled in beside their mate and closed their eyes, relaxing fully for the first time in their lives, knowing that their mate slept peacefully between them. If she even thinks she’s going to leave us, we’ll just have to tie her to our bed and show our stubborn little mate just how much we’ll love her. The vivid picture Jace sent to Jackson of Laurie, tied naked to their triad bed, smiling up at them as they held her gently between them, was enough to make Jackson whimper with instant desire. Aw hell, Jace! Way to make sure I have the hard-on of the century! Jace’s laughter echoed in Jackson’s mind. That makes two of us, Jackson.

80

Lynnette Bernard

Chapter 10 “Laurie, look at me,” Jace told her quietly, taking her face firmly but gently in his hand and turning her to look up at him. When she opened her eyes and smiled at him, the gentle softness of her melted any last bit of control he had. Leaning forward, he covered her lips with his, teasing her with his tongue as he tasted her sweetness. When he pulled away, he kissed her gently one last time before Jackson pulled her toward him and covered her mouth tenderly with his own. She melted into his arms as he tasted her, gently stroking her face with his hand as he leaned into her soft body. Pulling away slowly, he smiled down at her and couldn’t help but chuckle at her confusion. “This is not a dream, honey,” he reassured her quietly. Laurie looked at Jackson then turned to Jace, blinking slowly as she tried to wake up and fought to come back to reality. This can’t be real. It’s too wonderful. Deciding that she would choose the dream, she closed her eyes and sighed quietly. “It’s okay,” she insisted sadly. “I don’t mind. It’s the perfect dream for my last night here.” Jace growled and covered the right side of her body with his with a quickness that made Laurie open her eyes in shock. He enfolded her in his arms and kissed her lips quickly, pulling back to look down at her, leaving only inches between his face and hers. “Listen very carefully, Laurie,” he told her seriously, his blue eyes sparkling with emotion as he looked down at her. “Jackson and I have waited a very long time for our mate. Our mate will form a triad that cannot be broken. The Fates knew that we needed a special woman who would give us the comfort and love that we would need to soothe our souls. We’ve been waiting for the one woman who would give us the gentleness and love that we both ache for. Without our mate, we would lose ourselves to anger. We

Laurie’s Loves

81

would lose control of our emotions. Every day we would suffer until we lost our humanity and were unable to lead our pack.” “Your pack?” Laurie asked, confused by the use of the word she had heard often since she had arrived at their ranch. Jackson leaned toward them, his body covering the left side of her body, kissing her gently. “Our family is our pack, honey,” he explained gently. “And your family will be our pack from now on.” “My family?” Laurie looked at Jackson with a longing in her eyes that was tempered by fear. “Yes, honey,” Jackson told her softly. “Your children will be part of our pack, and we will watch over them, love them, and take care of them from now on. Just like we will you.” “I know this is very quick for you, baby, but you’re meant to be ours. You’re our mate,” Jace told her quietly, his eyes never wavering from hers. “We know it with everything we are. Your kindness and caring soothes us. Your humor lightens our hearts. Your gentleness touches our souls.” He leaned toward her then and claimed her lips softly, gently coaxing a response from her. He pulled back slowly, smiling at the sleepy expression on Laurie’s face. He turned and smiled at Jackson, leaning back and giving him access to their mate’s mouth. Jackson wasted no time in leaning forward and tasting the unique sweetness of Laurie’s mouth, smiling against her lips when she whimpered slightly and gave herself to him without reservation. Pulling back to look down at her, he waited until she opened her eyes and looked at both of them. There were tears in her eyes as she gazed up at them silently. “Baby, why are you crying?” Jace asked her quickly, reaching up to lightly follow the path of the tear that fell from the corner of her eye to disappear into her hair. “You can’t possibly be right, Jace,” she told him sadly. “I’m not the person for you. You deserve a perfect woman who is pretty and small with no baggage and...” Jace and Jackson growled at the same time and pulled her body against theirs, not allowing her to continue berating herself. “No, Laurie,” Jace said angrily. “You will not talk about yourself in that way ever again.”

82

Lynnette Bernard

Laurie looked at both men in shock at the vehemence in their expressions and their words. She looked from Jace to Jackson and back again. Dare she hope that what she saw in their eyes was unconditional acceptance and desire for her? “You are all that we want and need. Ever. For the rest of our lives.” Jace was firm and strong, and Laurie’s brow furrowed in confusion. “You’re the mate that was destined to find us,” Jackson told her quietly, reaching up to tenderly stroke her check. “You were meant to be ours.” He hesitated, worry creasing his forehead as he looked down at her. “Do you think you can learn to care about us as we already care about you, Laurie?” “You care about me?” Laurie gasped, unable to stop her heart from racing at their words. “How can that be? You don’t even know me.” “We do care about you,” Jace insisted. “It’s the way of true mates. We’re drawn to you first by your scent.” Laurie looked at both men with her eyebrows raised. “That’s what the wonderful smell is every time I’m near either one of you?” Jackson chuckled and nodded. Laurie looked at him and couldn’t help but smile. She took a deep breath and turned to look at Jace, loving the scent that she drew deep within herself. “I do love the way you smell,” she admitted on a sigh. Jace laughed and leaned forward to kiss her lightly. “Your scent draws us to you, Laurie, but the Fates wouldn’t pick someone as a mate for us unless they were perfect for us in every way that we need.” “Your kindness, your understanding, the way you’re supportive of every one of the members of our pack, everything that is your nature is what we need,” Jackson told her quietly, tenderly rubbing his hand up and down her arm as he spoke. “We’re drawn to you because of the person you are, Laurie,” Jace continued, his voice tender as he leaned forward and nuzzled her chin before leaning back to gaze down at her with an openness that took Laurie’s breath away. “You center us. You make us feel a hope that we’ve never felt before.” “You are the most kind and giving woman we have ever met.” Jackson’s brown eyes softened as he looked down at her, his words emphatic.

Laurie’s Loves

83

Laurie looked up at him in shock. Before she could utter one word of protest, Jace continued Jackson’s thoughts. “We’ve watched you with our family and see how you help, how you listen, how you make them laugh.” “The children look forward to the time you spend with them,” Jackson continued. “Martha adores you. You’ve stepped in without hesitation and have brought a new sense of togetherness to our home.” “I haven’t done anything,” Laurie protested. Jace stroked the pad of his thumb over her bottom lip, leaning forward to gently claim its softness. “Yes, you have, Laurie,” he whispered against her lips. “You’ve done that and more by being the adorable and loving woman that you are. When you’re near us, we’re centered. We feel at peace and relaxed. It’s only when you’re near us that we finally feel that everything is the way that it should be in our lives.” Laurie looked at both men and couldn’t stop the tears that filled her eyes. The fact that they needed her was nice, but once again, she realized that her friendship and support was what they needed from her. Could she settle for that to stay with such a warm and welcoming family? It would be wonderful for her children to be accepted unconditionally. Maybe she could put aside her desires and dreams and just live as she had been living for the last seventeen years. Could she stand to live without love in her life? She looked at the two men who stared down at her silently. Her heart broke. She knew that she couldn’t stay with these men feeling what she already felt for them. She wanted them as her husbands. Yes husbands. She couldn’t pick between them. She wanted to be with them both, but she couldn’t stay with them just to fill their void. She needed to be desired. She needed to be loved. “I can’t.” Laurie’s tortured voice was barely above a whisper. “I need you both to leave my room. I’ll be leaving in the morning.” Jace growled and leaned against Laurie’s side. “Why?” he demanded, his wolf raging inside of him. “Explain to me why you don’t want us.” Jackson wrapped his arm around her waist and squeezed her tightly against him. “Tell us why you don’t think we could have a happy and loving triad.” Laurie looked at both men through her tears. She was more than confused. “You want to be in a loving relationship with me?” she asked, her voice shaky with emotion.

84

Lynnette Bernard

“What the hell do you think we’re talking about?” Jace answered angrily, his eyes flashing an eerie golden color before turning back to his beautiful ice blue shade. “I thought that you meant that you needed me to help you by supporting you as your friend,” she explained softly. “That’s how everyone sees me, Jace. Why would you and Jackson be any different?” The words no sooner left Laurie’s mouth when Jace covered her lips with his own. He gave her no chance to protest. The growl that sounded from deep within his chest sent tingles down Laurie’s spine. When he pulled back, her breath was coming hard and fast. There was no doubt of the passion he felt for her. She looked up at him in total shock. When she turned to look at Jackson, his brown eyes flashed the same golden color and held the same feral look of desire. Before she could speak, his mouth descended over hers, and he kissed her with such passion, she barely had time to breathe. “Laurie, you’re our triad mate.” Jace spoke finally, looking to Jackson briefly before turning to pin her with his stare. “You are more than a friend, more than a lover. You are the heart of our joining. You are the keeper of our souls. Never doubt that we desire you. There hasn’t been a moment since we first set eyes on you that we haven’t wanted to wrap our arms around you and protect you and bury ourselves deep within your body until you scream out our names. It just is, honey.” Laurie’s eyes went wide at Jace’s words. He wanted her? They wanted her? They wanted her as a lover, and not just a friend? Was that possible? The vision he painted in her mind of him buried deep inside her made her womb clench and her sex gush with arousal. Jackson growled and leaned in to kiss her just as passionately as Jace had. “We can smell how your body readies itself for us, Laurie.” He leaned against her and allowed her to feel the steel hardness of his cock as it rubbed against her hip. “Are you going to tell me you aren’t wet for us?” Laurie blushed and looked away from his intense gaze, unable to look at either man. “I can’t help it,” she whispered finally. “I don’t understand it, but I can’t deny that I want to be with you both. There are so many things that I want to do to you.” Jace laughed and leaned his body against hers, allowing her to feel his own hard cock against her right hip. “Baby, we want to do so many things to

Laurie’s Loves

85

you, too. You were destined to be ours. We will never want another woman. We will never desire another woman, Laurie. Just you.” Jace’s voice was deep with sincerity. Jace, tell her our secret. Jace nodded and reached out to brush the soft lock of hair that rested against Laurie’s cheek. “There’s something else you need to know, honey.” Laurie looked at him silently, knowing that he was preparing to tell her something important. She could feel the tension radiating from him. Without thought, she reached up and rubbed her hand across his cheek, her thumb rubbing below his ear as she reached behind his neck to massage the tension from him gently. “Jace, I can feel your worry,” she told him quietly. “Please don’t worry.” Jace smiled down at her, looking at Jackson briefly before leaning forward to kiss her lips lightly. She’s able to sense my emotions, Jackson. When we claim her, she’ll be able to share our ability to communicate with each other telepathically even though she’s human. I just know it. I agree, Jace. The way she can share her dreams with us has to be a part of the abilities we’ll share. There’s no other explanation. She’s definitely our alpha female. Now we just have to convince her without scaring her. “Laurie, Jackson and I have an ability to talk to each other in our minds,” he told her finally. “We’ve been able to do this since we were teenagers. We’ll be able to do the same with you once we claim you.” Laurie looked from one man to the other. The ability that they said they shared didn’t scare her. She truly believed that such things were possible. She had a close bond with her father before he died. They were able to know when the other was upset, and she often found herself calling him when she thought he needed her. He did the same, often calling her when she was suffering through the abuse of her marriage. “Why do you think that I’ll share that ability?” she asked finally. She accepts what we say without question. The happiness that filled Jace at Laurie’s belief in his statement was palpable. He felt Jackson’s hand on his back as his beta reached out to center him. He knew that Jackson felt it, too.

86

Lynnette Bernard

She’s not going to be happy when she hears why we think that, Jace. I know. “Laurie, when you were sleeping yesterday, you had a dream about the three of us,” Jace told her quietly. “We both experienced your dream while we were sleeping.” The horror that crossed Laurie’s face was immediate. She couldn’t stop the whimper that escaped her as she tried to pull out of their embrace. When they both tightened their arms around her, she began to fight in earnest. “Please, honey,” Jace whispered against the side of her face. “Don’t get upset.” “Sharing that dream with you was unbelievable,” Jackson tried to soothe her. “Oh my God!” Laurie sobbed, covering her face with her hands. Embarrassment didn’t even begin to cover the utter humiliation she was experiencing. “Laurie, seeing you making love to us in your dream was the most erotic thing I have ever experienced,” Jace told her, his voice deep with desire. “What you dreamed is exactly what Jackson and I want with you every day for the rest of our lives.” He reached up and gently pulled her hands away from her face, revealing the anguish in her tear-filled eyes. She looked at him in such total humiliation that his heart ached for her. When she turned to look at Jackson with fear, he knew they had to do something to prove to her that she was exactly what they wanted and needed. “We’ve never heard of any triad mates being able to share dreams before, but then again, we’ve never heard of any triad partners being able to communicate mentally before a mating bond had been made. Since Jackson and I have been able to do that since we were fourteen, it only makes sense that our abilities with you would begin once we met you.” Jace looked down at her and smiled gently. “And we loved every minute of your dream.” Laurie looked from one man to the next, unsure what to do or say. “You don’t think there’s something wrong with me for wanting you both?” she barely whispered. “Isn’t that wrong of me to fantasize about that?” “Baby, if that’s your fantasy, we can only thank the Fates that we’re a part of it,” Jackson told her, smiling. “If you could have seen what your

Laurie’s Loves

87

dream did to us both, you wouldn’t be questioning the rightness of what you want with us. We want the same with you.” At Jace’s deep laughter, Laurie looked at him and couldn’t help but smile at him. “What happened to you both?” she asked, trying to remain serious. “We were sleeping when you had your dream,” he told her quietly, his blue eyes twinkling. “When we all came in your dream, Jackson and I did the same in our sleep.” Laurie’s eyes got huge. “You did?” Jackson laughed and leaned in to kiss her lips gently. “Oh, honey, we came so hard, we were soaked in our seed, and our hearts were racing. We barely held ourselves back from breaking into your bedroom and making your dream a reality.” “See, honey,” Jace told her, his voice comforting, “your dream being projected to us was just another clue that you were our destined mate. We wouldn’t be able to share your dreams with you unless you were the third in our triad.” “The fact that we’re able to do that before we’ve actually claimed you makes us know that our bond is stronger than any other triad mating has ever been. And what we share will only get better and stronger.” Jackson reached up to take her hand in his and bring it to his mouth, palm up, to kiss her lightly before nuzzling his cheek into the softness of her caress. Jace pulled her into his arms and kissed her neck gently, opening his mouth to bite down carefully, using every bit of his control to hold back his wolf from claiming her. “Please say you’ll stay with us and be our mate,” he whispered. Jackson leaned in and kissed her temple gently, pulling back to look at her with such open desire and want, it took her breath away. “We’ll be good mates for you, honey. And we’ll make sure you know you’re loved and wanted every day of your life.” That was it for Laurie. To have them offer her exactly what she wanted and needed in her life. To know that they would soothe her deepest secret sorrows. And to know that they desired her as much as she desired them was more than she could have ever hoped for. Could she take the chance? “Laurie.” Jace pulled her attention back to him. “You’re exactly what we want and need. You call to our minds and our hearts. Please accept us.”

88

Lynnette Bernard

Laurie looked at both men, fear and indecision warring within her. She didn’t want to walk away from them and the life of love and happiness that they were offering her. “I want to,” she whispered, looking at both men with open longing in her eyes. She wanted to belong to them. She wanted it so badly, she felt a pain deep in her chest. Jace closed his eyes and said a prayer of thanks to the Fates that she was at least willing to entertain the idea of mating with them. He leaned in and rested his head against Laurie’s cheek. He could feel Jackson move in beside her to do the same. “We need to mark you with our scents so no one will mistake just who you belong to.” Jace’s voice had a growl to it that made Laurie’s heart race with longing. Her brow furrowed in confusion. “What do you mean?” Her voice was soft and gentle, stroking against him, causing Jace’s cock to pulse with need. He closed his eyes and took a deep breath, inhaling her sweet scent deep inside himself. That was it. He was lost to her. Leaning forward he kissed her gently one last time then removed himself from the bed to stand beside it. He began to unbutton his shirt, his gaze never leaving hers. Laurie’s eyes widened as Jace pulled the black flannel shirt from his body, reaching down for the hem of his white T-shirt and pulling it over his head to throw it carelessly on the floor somewhere behind him. His body was glorious. His chest was broad and muscled, a scattering of black hair dusted his firm and muscled torso, causing her body to clench with arousal. When he began to unbuckle his belt and slowly unbuttoned and unzipped the fly of his jeans, she felt her sex gush with fluid at her immediate need of him. She felt the bed move and turned her head to watch Jackson remove himself from the bed to stand next to Jace, unbuttoning his shirt and pulling it from his body. Laurie crawled to a kneeling position, sitting back on her heels as she watched the two gorgeous men before her. Their movements seemed to flow together. Neither one hurried, but she could tell they were holding themselves under control with great determination. “Baby, take off your clothes,” Jace told her, his voice deep with need.

Laurie’s Loves

89

“You mean our clothes.” Jackson laughed gently, reaching out to lift the hem of the flannel shirt that belonged to Jace and tug at the T-shirt that belonged to him. Laurie blushed lightly. Jace and Jackson both growled at her shyness, wanting to hold her against them until she wasn’t afraid anymore. “I don’t know why, but I feel safe when I have your smell surrounding me,” Laurie explained, unable to stop herself. “Stupid, huh?” Jackson leaned forward and caressed her cheek lightly, tipping her face gently until she looked up at him. “No, darlin’,” he assured her. “It’s the way of mates.” Laurie smiled as happiness stole its way through her chest. She stopped speaking as she saw them both kick off their boots then bend to push their jeans and boxer briefs down their legs and step out of their clothing. They stood facing her without an ounce of embarrassment. Their bodies screamed power, and she appreciated the beauty of them. Lowering her gaze, her breath caught in her throat as she looked at their fully aroused and weeping cocks. Unable to stop herself, she moved toward them, reaching out and gently caressing their heavy sacs, closing her eyes as desire overcame her at the feel of the delicate orbs inside them. At the sound of their moans, she opened her eyes and smiled up at them, removing her hands from their balls to take hold of each of their impressive lengths to stroke them gently. Her grip tightened as she pulled up on their shafts, wetness gushing from between her legs at the erotic feeling of touching them both. Her hand couldn’t quite close around their girths, and despite the worry that they could never fit inside of her, she sighed with desire. She couldn’t wait to feel them deep inside of her. Growls mixed with moans as each man felt her touch, and it took every bit of their control to hold back and wait for her to make the next move. They couldn’t risk scaring her or pushing her too fast. They wanted her forever, and if it meant they had to wait for her to let them know when she was ready for them, then that’s what they would do. Laurie wasn’t sure what was happening to her. She had never initiated sex in her life. And she had certainly never wanted to touch any man like she needed to touch these two men before her. She felt a buzzing in her head just before an overwhelming sense of warmth filled her body. She felt no

90

Lynnette Bernard

fear. She felt no awkwardness. She only felt the caring that these two men seemed to be projecting to her with their thoughts. She gently traced her fingers up the lengths of each man, loving the heavy veins that ran on the underside of their shafts. Another rush of liquid escaped her, and she could feel it dripping down the inside of her thighs. Reaching out, she ran her index finger over the slit in each man’s length to collect the drops of pre-cum that pooled at the tips of their very formidable cocks. Bringing her fingers slowly up to her mouth, she placed one at her lips and licked Jace’s pre-cum from it, closing her eyes as the flavor of him burst through her mouth. Her eyes opened, and she sought out his as his growl of pleasure escaped him. Turning to Jackson, she watched him as she opened her mouth and licked her finger to taste his essence as well. Jackson’s eyes flashed golden as he leaned forward, placed his hand behind her neck, and pulled her to him to capture her mouth in an owning kiss. When he released her, Jace’s hand carefully thread its way behind her neck to grasp the softness of her hair as he pulled her toward him and devoured her mouth. Reluctantly pulling away from her, his eyes searched her face for any sign of fear or distress. She saw the soft golden glow that flashed back at her from his eyes. Leaning back slightly, she smiled up at them lazily, unable to balance herself on her own at that moment. They crushed her body to theirs, their breathing heavy and labored as they held her softness to the granite-hard wall of muscle of their chests. Looking down, she sighed heavily, releasing a little growl of her own as she reached out to take both their cocks in her hands once again. They were both at least as thick as her wrist and nearly as long as her forearm. How were they ever going to fit inside of her? Jace chuckled and reached out to touch her cheek tenderly. “Don’t worry, Laurie girl, we’ll fit inside you.” Laurie’s eyes flashed up to meet Jace’s eyes. How had he known what she was thinking? Could Jackson hear her thoughts, too? “Baby, it’s easy to figure out what you’re thinking,” Jackson told her softly. “And you don’t have to worry. Jace and I will make sure your body is ready for us. We’re going to make you so wet, honey.” Laurie turned her attention to Jackson, her eyes wide with discovery at his words. “You are?”

Laurie’s Loves

91

Jace chuckled, petting her face gently as he ran his fingers into the deep softness of her hair. “We are,” he told her quietly, looking at her with so much desire and longing that Laurie had a difficult time breathing. She closed her eyes and took a steadying breath, then opened them and smiled softly at the two men. “Okay,” she told them, her voice husky with need, “but I want to please you first.” “Baby, you already do,” Jackson told her, reaching out to touch her cheek gently. Jackson reached forward and slowly pulled the flannel shirt from her body, throwing it to the floor behind him before reaching down and pulling the T-shirt up the length of her torso, gently tugging it over her head. He watched the softness of her hair as it fell to brush below her shoulders, growling softly at the feminine sexiness of their mate. Without a thought, he threw the shirt toward the end of the bed. Even though she had to release her hold on both of their cocks to allow them to remove her clothing, it was worth it to see her kneeling before them on the bed, totally naked. Her full breasts were gorgeous. Her nipples were already hardened with desire, and they couldn’t wait to taste the beautiful rosy buds of her nipples. Her curves were lush and, if it were possible, their cocks got harder as they pictured holding onto her feminine hips as they pumped into her sweet body. Both men’s growl of approval made Laurie blush, but she made no move to cover her nakedness. The look they gave her made her feel sexy and wanted and needed. She had never felt that way in her entire life. Carefully making her way to the edge of the bed, she stepped down slowly and stood silently before them. She fought to keep her eyes on them as they both reached out and reverently caressed her full breasts, gasping as they drew their thumbs across her turgid nipples. When they leaned forward and each took a breast into their mouth, a moan escaped her at the jolt of desire that raced through her, sending another gush of liquid to her sex. She could feel it dripping down her legs but felt no embarrassment that her body was readying itself for them. She only felt a sense of rightness. She watched their faces as she pulled away from their mouths and slowly sank to her knees before them. She couldn’t help but smile at the flash of pure desire that crossed their features, making their eyes take on that soft golden glow once again. Reaching up, she grasped the base of their

92

Lynnette Bernard

cocks, her fingers unable to wrap around them completely. Pulling them both toward her, she opened her mouth and slowly licked at the weeping slit of Jace’s shaft. She stroked the length of Jackson’s cock, loving the feel of the silky steel of his shaft, as she opened and took the head of Jace’s cock into her mouth, running her tongue along the underside to the sensitive tissue beneath the head. Sucking deeply, she pulled as much of his considerable length into her mouth as she could, reaching beneath the engorged shaft and stroking his sac firmly. She couldn’t prevent a moan from escaping her as she heard Jace groan. She loved that she could make him feel so good. Pushing forward as far as she dared, she swallowed and pumped him into her mouth with deep strokes, feeling him swell within her mouth as he fought his desire to come. Pulling back, her mouth popped off his cock, and she looked up at him and smiled before leaning forward to gently kiss the tip of his shaft. He closed his eyes briefly then opened them to smile down at her and reached forward to caress her cheek gently. “So good, baby,” he told her softly. Laurie smiled and nuzzled her face into the crease of his thigh and took a deep breath to smell the wonderful scent that was totally Jace. “I love the way you smell, Jace,” she whispered, kissing his hip tenderly. Leaning in, she gently held up his heavy sac and sucked it slowly into her mouth. She pulled the delicate orbs deep into her mouth, caressing them with her tongue, and moaned with pleasure, smiling at the answering moan that fell from Jace’s lips. She pulled back slowly, letting the delicate morsels escape her mouth as she looked up at the man who had already taken possession of her heart. Turning to look up at Jackson, her breath caught in her chest as she saw the complete and utter joy that encompassed his features. Leaning away from Jace, she kissed the tip of Jackson’s cock and licked at the slit to bring his flavor into her mouth. She moaned at the taste, not understanding but uncaring that she didn’t know why these two men’s tastes and scents called to her so deeply. Opening her mouth, she watched Jackson’s face as she sucked his cock gently into her mouth. He groaned with pleasure as she increased the intensity of her sucking. Pulling back slightly, she ran her tongue under the mushroom head, smiling with satisfaction as she successfully found the hot

Laurie’s Loves

93

spot that made his moans intensify. Without hesitation, she pushed back down onto his length and swallowed to take him to the back of her throat. “Baby, please stop,” Jackson whispered, touching her face gently. She pulled back, allowing him to fall from her mouth, and looked up at him. “Did I do something wrong, Jackson?” she asked him, worry evident in her voice. “No, baby,” Jackson told her, stroking her hair and holding her close to his hip. “You’re amazing.” “Then why?” she asked, unable to look up at him, leaning against the corded, thick muscle of his thigh as she turned her face to sigh against his groin and take a steadying breath. She didn’t want him to see the tears that were forming in her eyes as his rejection hit home. “Baby, the first time I come with you, I want to be deep inside your body,” he told her honestly. Laurie looked up at him and smiled when she saw the quiet desperation on his face. “That sounds nice,” she whispered, leaning forward to take his heavy sac into her mouth and suck at his balls gently for just a moment before releasing him. Looking at both men’s thick erections as they reached up toward their stomachs, and seeing their heavy sacs hanging tightly below, she groaned and felt a tingle of pleasure tighten her clit and make another gush of fluid escape her body. Jace and Jackson moved as one as they reached for her, taking her under her arms and pulling her up into their embrace. Both men took a deep, calming breath and couldn’t stop the growl that escaped them as her naked body leaned against theirs and the scent of her arousal enveloped them. Laurie smiled as she looked up at them. Reaching up, she touched their faces gently and traced their lips with her fingertips. “What, honey?” Jace asked, taking her hand and kissing her palm before laying it on his chest to cover his heart. Laurie blushed and tried to look down, but Jackson’s hand stopped her. He gently tipped her face up, determined that her eyes met his so she couldn’t keep any secrets from him. “Baby, you can tell us anything,” he urged her, leaning forward to kiss her forehead gently.

94

Lynnette Bernard

Laurie looked directly into Jackson’s eyes, unable to hide the emotions that she felt for these kind and gentle men. Looking at Jace, she saw that his eyes showed her the same caring. “I just like the noises you both make when you’re with me,” she told them, unable to say more. “You mean when you make us crazy with your hands and your mouth?” Jace prompted her. He smiled when he saw her nod her head slightly before she buried her face into their chests as they held her close. “Well, Laurie,” Jackson told her softly, laughing roughly. “You’re in for more sounds because when we finally come when we’re deep inside of you, the whole ranch is gonna hear us.” Laurie snapped her head up in horror. “No!” she barely whispered. “I’ll be so embarrassed.” Jace laughed and picked Laurie up in his arms, kissing her neck quickly before laying her back onto the center of the bed and climbing up to cover her body with his, comfortably settling himself between her legs. His eyes closed with pleasure at the intimate way her body held his, his cock pulsing against her sweetness, desperately wanting to bury himself deep within her warmth. “Oh, honey, you’re gonna be making just as much noise as we are,” Jace promised her. He kissed her then, not allowing her embarrassment or fear to have a chance to keep her from enjoying what they were about to do with her. His mouth found hers, opening and searching hers thoroughly, loving the taste of her. When she started kissing him back with rising passion, he sighed into her mouth, sweeping her lips with his tongue, moaning when she sucked it desperately. Jackson leaned into her neck and kissed her pulse point, growling at the scent of her. He allowed himself to bite her lightly, careful not to break the skin, barely able to hold back from doing what his wolf was pushing him to do. Jace. I need to claim her. Jace looked up and faced Jackson with a knowing look. We both need to be inside of her. Jackson nodded and reached out to gently take Laurie’s left breast in his hand, caressing it gently before leaning in to claim her nipple, sucking it

Laurie’s Loves

95

deeply into his mouth. His tongue swirled around the erect tip before he bit down lightly on it. Laurie moaned and arched her back, pushing her breasts into Jackson’s tender and loving care. “More,” she moaned, reaching out to thread her fingers through Jackson’s hair and pull him closer to her body. “Baby, you have the most beautiful breasts,” Jackson moaned as he held the fullness of her breast once again before leaning forward to take her nipple into his mouth and suck on it deeply. Jace kissed his way down her throat, careful to pay attention to her other breast and the beautiful rosy nipple that begged for his attention. He kissed and suckled, pulling it into his mouth, wishing he could be drinking the milk her body would soon be making to nourish their cubs. Jackson moaned at the image Jace projected in his head, his heart squeezing in his chest at the thought of Laurie breastfeeding their babies. He leaned up and claimed her mouth in a passionate kiss while Jace trailed kisses down her body until he settled himself between her legs, spreading her thighs with his broad shoulders. Laurie moaned into Jackson’s mouth as Jace laid claim to the very core of her. She opened her legs wider for him, wanting him more than she ever thought was possible. She was never one to enjoy oral sex, but these men made her feel and desire things she never knew were possible. Jace growled as he reached up to spread Laurie’s lower lips, taking a deep breath to take in the scent of their mate’s arousal. The beautiful pink color of her most delicate flesh glistened with the wetness of her want for them both. His tongue found its home within her sweet pussy, and he licked and suckled, driving both of them to a level of excitement that stole his breath and made his heart ache with the joy of finally finding their mate. He knew that this woman was the one who would bring them joy and peace and a sense of family that they had never dared to hope for. “Jace!” Laurie called out, unable to stop herself from yelling his name as he pulled her clit into his mouth, sucking hard just before he bit down on it gently and she exploded into a thousand pieces. Jace groaned as he lapped up the juices that escaped their mate’s body. Kissing her intimately, he slowly crawled up her body to kiss her desperately, holding her to him tenderly as her heart rate and breathing

96

Lynnette Bernard

returned to their natural levels. He looked at Jackson and smiled at the satisfaction that encompassed his beta’s face. They lay quietly in each other’s arms as they gently soothed Laurie down from her orgasm. She trembled with little aftershocks that made both men feel a deep contentment that she was experiencing complete satisfaction with them. And they intended to have her continue achieving ultimate pleasure every time they made love. “I need to taste you,” Jackson whispered softly, once Laurie’s trembling abated. Kissing his way down her body to claim his spot between her legs, he kissed the inside of her left thigh before making his way to the sweet ambrosia that awaited him. He breathed in deeply, loving the scent of her release. Spreading her lips carefully with his thumbs, he leaned in and lapped at the soft pinkness that greeted him. He felt Laurie’s hand in his hair as she pet him gently, her body relaxed and satisfied. He leaned into her touch, loving her need to be close to him. He circled her clit with his tongue, sucking gently as he carefully inserted one finger deep inside her and slid it in and out in a gentle rhythm. Her hips started to move with him as he pushed two fingers into her, carefully looking for and finding the elusive spot that would drive her over the edge. He crooked his fingers just slightly. Her gasp of his name made him smile. Pumping his fingers inside their mate, sure to find that spot each time, he sucked hard on her clit and was rewarded by Laurie’s mewl of pleasure and a renewed gush of liquid at her release. He lapped every bit of it up and soothed her with his tongue, carefully bringing her down from her orgasm. When he slowly made his way back up her body to lie beside her, he kissed her mouth gently and lay beside her on her pillow, tenderly stroking her body as he shared the moment of closeness with their mate and with Jace. We need to claim her, Jackson. She needs to choose us, Jace. She has. She has to say the words. It wouldn’t be fair to her otherwise. Jace looked down at Laurie and smiled at the happy and satisfied expression on her face.

Laurie’s Loves

97

“I’ve never had that happen before,” she told them quietly, reaching out to touch them, running her hand down each of their arms. “What, baby?” Jace asked quietly, leaning forward to claim her lips gently. He leaned back to rest his head on her pillow, casually caressing her breasts as he lay beside her. Jackson leaned in to nuzzle against the side of her neck, running his palm across the hard nub of her engorged nipple. “I’ve never had an orgasm during sex before,” she admitted shyly. Both men looked at her and then at each other in surprise before anger rushed through them at the uncaring and brutal treatment their mate had received at the hands of her ex. “Baby, we’re gonna love you so good,” Jackson whispered, his voice heavy with emotion. “Please let us.” Laurie looked at both men as they looked down at her. What she saw before her were two wonderful men who were kind and caring and who treated her with a respect that she had never received from any man before. She knew that she couldn’t refuse them. Even if she never saw them again after her vacation, she would have the memories of their gentle loving to last her a lifetime. Turning to Jace, she reached up and touched his cheek tenderly, doing the same to Jackson and bringing them both toward her face. She kissed their lips gently and sighed at the feel of their warmth surrounding her. “It feels right when I’m with you,” Laurie whispered, turning to look at both men with honest sincerity before continuing. She faced them quietly with tears in her eyes. “I feel right when I’m with you.” Jace leaned forward and gently took her mouth in the most exquisitely tender kiss she could ever have imagined. He leaned back and smiled down at her, touching her chin gently as he turned her head to nuzzle into her neck, giving Jackson access to the sweetness of her mouth. Laurie moaned into Jackson’s mouth, losing herself to the incredible sensations of the two men loving her body. She knew they couldn’t possibly be in love with her, but she would take what they offered her and give back the loving she had no strength to deny them. Whether she wanted to voice it or not, she knew that she already cared about these two men. She wouldn’t allow the guilt of her upbringing to get in the way of how she felt. It was right. They were right together. Even if it was just for a little while.

98

Lynnette Bernard

“Laurie, you need to know that you don’t have to worry about any diseases with Jackson and me,” Jace told her sincerely. “If you need us to go and get tested, we’ll do that for you so you can be certain you’re safe with us.” Laurie looked up at Jace quietly. His face was tight with desire, but she could see how he held himself in check to allow her to make her decision. She turned to Jackson and saw the same sincerity in his eyes. “You’re our mate, honey,” Jackson told her. His tone was certain and clear. “We would die before we’d ever put you at risk.” Her constant reminders to her own children about having safe sex flew through her mind. She knew she should demand proof of their status. She knew she should be diligent about her own health. And she would never believe any other man who told her what they had just told her. But she did believe them. She felt their honesty and caring wrapping around her, creating a feeling of warmth and safety. She had the deepest feeling of rightness and safety in their lovemaking. Trust in the joining, Laurie. A woman’s gentle voice echoed in her head. Your triad mates will never jeopardize your safety. They will love you and your children for all time. Laurie’s eyes filled with tears as she looked first at Jackson and then at Jace. At first the voice frightened her, but the gentleness of the voice, the sincerity of the message, and the love that enveloped her as she heard the gentle words made her trust what she had heard. It was as if the Fates that Jace and Jackson kept referring to had given her the power to understand and trust the concept of fated mates. And in accepting her part of this triad mating, she also accepted the safety of their joining. “I just heard a woman’s voice in my head tell me to trust in this joining,” Laurie whispered, smiling at the joy that came over both men’s faces. Neither man could speak. Jackson could feel the surge of happiness that raced through Jace and knew Jace had to be feeling the same from him. To have the Fates speak to Laurie on their behalf was truly a miracle. They had never heard of that happening to any other bonded triad. They were indeed blessed.

Laurie’s Loves

99

They closed their eyes and leaned against Laurie’s forehead. She felt their tender kisses on her cheeks and reached up to tenderly caress their heads. “I trust you,” she finally whispered. “I trust this joining.” Jace covered her body with his, his hips opening her legs wide to accommodate him. She gasped in pleasure as his unbelievably hard cock nudged against her opening. As Jackson kissed and suckled her breast, she reached down and took the satiny hardness of Jace’s incredible length in her hand and guided him to her already wet and engorged pussy. Jackson, she’s guiding me inside her body. Jackson lifted his head and watched as Laurie’s hand led Jace’s cock to her body and caressed his length as he slid inside her with one smooth stroke. Jackson’s breath caught in his chest as he watched Jace’s considerable length disappear into the welcoming warmth of their mate’s body. It would be a memory that he would never forget. Only when his own cock entered her and found true heaven inside of her would that memory of their first shared intimacy equal what he was witnessing right now. Laurie’s moan of desire brought both their attentions back to her face. Her head was arched back against her pillow, and her hands gripped both of their shoulders as she pulled them toward her. Jace halted all movement, his eyes closed in ecstasy at the feeling of Laurie’s velvet channel gripping his shaft. She was incredibly tight and warm, and she squeezed him deliciously. He worried he would explode inside her before he ever got a chance to love her properly. Opening his eyes, he looked down at the sweet woman who would forever be theirs, and smiled. “Are you all right, sweetheart?” he whispered, holding himself up so that his body weight wouldn’t be too much for her. Laurie opened her eyes and smiled, her face flushed with arousal. She nodded and moaned, blushing immediately at the sound she couldn’t prevent from escaping her. Jace laughed softly, willing his excitement under control as he looked down at the shy blush that stole across their mate’s face. He pulled out of Laurie slowly until only the head of his cock sat just inside the opening to her body, and slowly pushed back into her with exquisite tenderness, loving the warmth, the wetness, and the rightness of being welcomed back into her

100

Lynnette Bernard

sweet body. Laurie’s responding moan made joy burst through him. What a responsive lover she was. He was going to enjoy every moment of their loving for the rest of their lives. He smiled as he saw her bite her lower lip to keep from crying out. “No, baby,” he told her, leaning down to kiss her, licking at her lower lip to ease the pain he knew she had to have caused with her teeth. “I want to hear every sound you have for us. I want to hear that you enjoy what we do to you. Don’t hold back.” He withdrew and pumped back into her with a little more force, keeping up the steady rhythm and pulling such sweet sounds from her that his heart nearly exploded in his chest at the joy he was feeling. She wrapped her legs around his waist, canting her hips to meet his thrusts, and he was lost to her. Picking himself up on his arms, he pounded into her, unable to hold back, and not wanting to. She met each of his movements with her own, and he knew no more perfect moment in his life when she screamed out his name and found her release just before he found his own. His hips continued to move in short jerky thrusts as his balls pulled up close to his body, and the abundance of his seed exploded into her welcoming womb in burst after burst of release. He could hear her rapid breathing against his shoulder as her own release made her body shudder repeatedly against his. Her arms slipped around his body, and she stroked his back gently as his release continued to pump into her. Her touch soothed him. Her body welcomed him. Never had he felt such acceptance and love in his entire life. He was a happy man. He held himself above her on shaky arms and looked down at her with a tender smile. Leaning forward to kiss her lips gently, he leaned back and tenderly stroked her body, petting her, loving her. “Thank you, Laurie,” he told her sincerely, his eyes glowing softly as he saw the tender smile on her lips. He pulled back on his wolf, knowing he fought to claim her now, but he had to be sure she would accept all that there was about Jackson and himself, especially their wolves, before that could truly happen. Very slowly, he pulled his spent cock from her body, smiling at the erotic moan that left her mouth as he did so. She turned to him and gently hugged him to her, kissing his chest lightly before reaching up to cup his face in her hands and kiss his lips with every

Laurie’s Loves

101

bit of longing and feeling that was in her. There were tears in her eyes as she pulled away. Jace reached up to gently wipe them away then leaned forward to kiss her forehead tenderly. He cuddled her against his chest and held her, words inadequate for what he was feeling right then. The way she fit perfectly within his embrace said it all. She was where she belonged. Jackson moved toward them and cuddled against Laurie’s back, encompassing her with his warmth. He was content to hold her at that moment, petting her arm and shoulder gently as she settled against Jace’s body. His heart was still beating rapidly, and his cock was painfully hard, but the contentment he felt at her total acceptance of their lovemaking made him happier than he could have ever imagined. He rested his head against the back of Laurie’s neck and inhaled the intoxicating scent of her. Their mate. “Jackson?” Laurie murmured, her voice muffled against Jace’s chest. “I’m here, baby,” he whispered, kissing her shoulder lightly. Turning slowly, Laurie opened her eyes and smiled at the gentle man who lay patiently beside her. “Hi,” she whispered, smiling. “Hi,” he answered, his eyes sparkling with enjoyment. “Did you enjoy yourself with Jace?” Laurie blushed and looked back at Jace to see him watching her with a contented grin on his face. “Not at all,” she teased. “Couldn’t you tell?” Jace laughed and leaned forward to bite her shoulder gently, causing her to gasp with excitement. “I’ll just have to do better next time,” he told her seriously. Laurie winked at him and smiled. The soft expression of caring that took over his features made her heart ache. How could she ever give him up? “Laurie?” Jackson’s soft voice turned her attention back to him. She turned her body toward him and leaned in to kiss his lips gently, biting at his lower lip playfully as he leaned in to take over the kiss. His growl of possession overwhelmed her, and she gave herself over to his needs. She wasn’t delusional enough to fool herself that she didn’t have those very same needs. She wanted him just as much as she wanted Jace. It didn’t matter that it wasn’t acceptable in a society that she was so ruled by. It was acceptable in their world, right now. She could no more deny him

102

Lynnette Bernard

than she could deny Jace. It was right. She felt it in her soul. She would deal with reality when her time was up at this ranch. For now, she was going to go with her heart. And her heart demanded that she share her love with these two men. She wrapped her arms around Jackson and pulled him toward her. He went to her easily, covering her body with his and settling his hips in the cradle of her pelvis. She gasped at the feel of his engorged cock rubbing against her already sensitive tissues, but the welcoming throb of her already drenched pussy dispelled any thoughts of not continuing with their joining. “Baby, do you want me inside of you?” Jackson whispered as he looked down at her face, seeing that it was already flushed with desire for him. Laurie smiled slowly and reached down between their bodies to take firm hold of his shaft and lead it to the waiting warmth of her body. When she placed the leaking tip of his cock into her opening, she gasped at the feel of him entering her slowly. Jackson looked down and watched as Laurie’s body accepted him inside her. A burst of emotion squeezed his chest, and he nearly cried out from the pure joy of being inside their mate’s body. Jace! He couldn’t stop himself from crying out in his mind to his triad partner. I know, Jackson. It only gets better. “Laurie,” Jackson whispered as he buried himself balls-deep inside her. When her legs came up around his hips and she leaned forward to kiss his chest lightly, he was lost. Seeing the tender smile she had for him was the catalyst. He pumped inside her, slowly at first then picked up speed as her soft moans of pleasure spurred him on. His wolf pushed him to claim her. He used every bit of his willpower to love her like she deserved to be loved. He would not claim her without her full knowledge. He concentrated instead on making this one moment in time the best he could offer the woman who would be their future. Tipping her hips up just slightly, he pushed deeper inside her, loving the moan that escaped her as she felt him rub against the one spot inside of her that would give her deep pleasure. The sounds she made as he loved her made his balls pull tight against his body, and he knew he didn’t have much time left before he exploded in total rapture.

Laurie’s Loves

103

Reaching up, he palmed her breast and squeezed it gently, pinching the nipple lightly before leaning forward to take it in his mouth and suckle enthusiastically. Biting down on it gently, he pulled back when her body arched off the bed, bowing against him as her release slammed through her body. The tightening of her inner muscles around his cock was all it took, and he followed her into oblivion, spewing his seed deep into her body as pulse after pulse of his release took him to a place of joy that he had never experienced in his life. He leaned against her, feeling her heart pounding against his chest. He moaned with contentment as her arms surrounded him, and she tenderly stroked his back, feeling her caring with every touch. He lay within her arms, enjoying the closeness as their bodies calmed. He could happily stay within her embrace for the rest of his life. With every ounce of tenderness within him, he reluctantly pulled from her body. He slumped against her and leaned into the crook of her neck, licking at it lightly before biting down. She moaned against his head and reached out to hold him tighter to her. Somewhere in his mind, he came back to reality before actually drawing blood, but saw that Jace was in the same position against the other side of her neck, mirroring his actions. Jace, we can’t! Jace looked up at him with a desperate look that probably equaled his own. They both fought their wolves in earnest now, but they had to win. They could not claim her without her full acceptance of what they were. Jace closed his eyes and leaned his forehead against hers. He reached out and pulled Jackson toward them so that his forehead touched both his and Laurie’s. He ached for this bonding. He needed it more than his next breath. “Laurie, we need you to understand what being with us means,” Jace told her quietly. “The three of us will be one,” Jackson whispered, leaning down to kiss her lips gently. “Do you understand that?” “And it will be forever,” Jace added, trying to make sure Laurie realized it was not a one-time thing. Laurie looked up at Jace, reaching up to touch his chin with her index finger, bringing it up to trace his lower lip. She smiled as he kissed it lightly, and the feeling of happiness that spread through her chest was replaced by

104

Lynnette Bernard

concern as she looked first at Jace and then at Jackson, who watched her with equal seriousness. “I don’t know if you will want that with me,” Laurie told them with complete honesty. “You don’t know what I bring to this relationship.” Jackson smiled and leaned forward to take her hand in his and bring it to his lips to kiss the back of it gently. “What do you bring to this relationship, Laurie?” he asked her gently. “Well.” Laurie thought seriously, unaware how she gently stroked Jackson’s hand and Jace’s face. “I have two children. I’m not financially sound. And I don’t have a lot of experience with men.” She looked at both men, sure they would be turned off by her admission, but they just leaned above her with smiles on their faces. “Your children will be our children, Laurie,” Jace told her immediately. “We would welcome them into our pack with love. And if we’re lucky, we’ll be adding to those children with more.” “You want children with me?” Laurie asked, her voice almost a whisper. The growl that escaped Jace was feral. He leaned forward and took Laurie’s face between his hands, his expression serious. “Our seed is meant to find a home within you, Laurie,” he told her, his voice heavy with desire. “I can think of nothing more beautiful than you carrying our children within your womb.” Jackson leaned in and kissed her cheek, pulling her attention to him. “I feel the same, Laurie,” he told her with an honesty that took her breath away. “The thought of your body filled with our babies makes me very happy.” Laurie pulled herself from both men with a strength that surprised them both. They watched in silence as she climbed out of the bed and took a step away from them, feeling immediate pain in their chests at the separation. She stood next to the bed, unable to stop the tears that were already falling down her cheeks. “No,” she whispered, her voice breaking with emotion. “I can’t have more babies by myself. I can’t go through that again.” She turned to walk away quickly to walk into the adjoining bathroom, putting the closed bathroom door between her and the men she wanted more

Laurie’s Loves

105

than she had ever wanted anyone in her life. But she could not go through the years of loneliness, worry, and pain again. She just couldn’t. Jace looked at Jackson, not hiding one bit of the frustration and sadness that he was feeling. Jackson knew exactly how he felt. His heart was breaking at the fear that was emanating from their mate. Now what? Jackson’s thought echoed in Jace’s head. Jace looked at Jackson and growled. When he stood and walked toward the bathroom door, Jackson smiled at his alpha. Laurie didn’t have a prayer of winning this fight. “Laurie,” Jace called to her calmly through the closed door. “Listen to me.” “Go away, please,” Laurie’s soft voice answered him. He could tell she was crying from the small hitch in her voice. Jackson stood and walked toward the closed door to stand beside Jace. “We’re not going away, Laurie,” he told her, looking at Jace and nodding. He was going to fight for their mate side by side with his best friend. Their future happiness depended on their discussion with Laurie right now. And only honesty was going to prove to the one woman meant for them that they would have a wonderful future together. “Laurie, listen to me, honey,” Jace told her gently. “You’re important to both of us. You bring us a happiness and a calm we’ve never felt before in our lives. We want you to be a part of our future. We need you to work beside us, rule with us every day, and sleep beside us every night for the rest of our lives.” He looked at Jackson to see him looking back at him with such longing that he had to take a deep breath to center himself and not get caught up in the emotions that they were both feeling. He had to stay focused. This was the one moment in his life when his words to the woman they both already loved would determine their future happiness. “We need you to help us stay focused and grounded as we rule our pack. They need your love and guidance to help them be loving and supportive families. And, baby, we need you to make Jackson and me part of a family that we’ve never had.” Jace was silent for a moment, unsure how to continue. The soft click of the bathroom door stopped him from continuing. Both he and Jackson held

106

Lynnette Bernard

their breath as the door slowly opened, and Laurie stood before them, beautifully naked and cautiously hopeful. Jace and Jackson both growled, unable to hold back the pleasure of their wolves at the sight of their mate standing naked before them, both their seed dripping down her legs. The scent of their lovemaking enveloped them, and they wanted nothing more than to carry her back to bed and fill her again with their life’s essence. “Darlin’.” Jackson spoke softly as he stepped toward her and enveloped her in his embrace. Jace stepped behind them, closing his eyes in pleasure and relief as her back leaned against his chest and her naked rear end nestled against his growing erection. Wrapping his arms around her waist, he pulled her against him tightly, glorying in the feel of the way she leaned in to the hug that they both gave her. “Laurie, we would never pressure you to have children with us,” Jace whispered against her face as he nuzzled her neck lightly. “But you need to know that if we were lucky enough to find that the Fates have gifted us with a baby, we would be thrilled. And we would love every minute of your pregnancy. We would love the changes your body would go through. We would touch you every chance we could to feel our baby growing inside you.” “We would be with you when you give birth,” Jackson added, kissing her forehead lightly. “We would help you take care of every child, helping our babies grow and learn. Just thinking about our baby nursing at your breast makes my heart ache to see that really happen. Please give us a chance to show you how much we want that with you. Only you, honey.” “And even if we don’t have the blessing of children with you, we will love your children as our own, and we will cherish every moment you share with us,” Jace told her honestly. “I don’t want to live my life without you. Neither of us do, honey.” Laurie looked from one man to the other and closed her eyes. How could she refuse the kindness and honesty of these men? Could she take the chance to believe them? “I need to think,” she told them finally, unable to make such a decision while the three of them were standing together naked.

Laurie’s Loves

107

Jace reluctantly took a step backward, releasing Laurie. We need to give her space, Jackson. Jackson nodded, knowing what Jace said was true. Turning as one, both men walked toward the bed and retrieved their clothes. “We’ll be downstairs,” Jace told her as they walked toward the bedroom door, carrying their clothes. “We have a meeting before dinner.” He opened the door, and both men stepped out into the hallway. “You can let us know your decision at the end of the night.” Laurie watched both men silently. She nodded her agreement as they turned to face her. “The room at the end of the hall is for the three of us to spend our future together,” Jackson told her quietly, his voice hopeful as he looked at her. “We can have you moved in there within five minutes of your decision.” He smiled at her with the jaunty smile she had come to know was so much a part of his personality. But his teasing smile held a sadness to it that she wanted nothing more than to wipe away. Jace looked at her silently, his eyes betraying the worry and pain that filled him. They closed the door quietly behind them, and Laurie was left alone in her room. She had a lot to think about.

108

Lynnette Bernard

Chapter 11 Jace and Jackson sat facing their lieutenants at the kitchen table. Martha stood nervously at the kitchen sink. Janine sat smugly beside her brother Alexander and his triad partner Butler, who remained silent as they faced their alpha. Lucian and Cole, guarding members of the pack’s security team, stood behind their lieutenants, alert and ready. Their towering heights and impressive physiques displayed their readiness to defend or fight, depending on Jace’s decision. “I have no defense, Alpha,” Alexander told Jace, his apology sincere. “I don’t know how the intruder made it into the private compound, but I accept full responsibility.” “It’s your fault, Alexander,” Janine interrupted. “If you had been guarding the compound as you should have, instead of sniffing out females in heat, no one would have been able to get by you.” Jace’s hand that rested on top of the table clenched in an effort to control his anger. “I believe you, Alexander,” he told him angrily, his voice hard. “But that doesn’t excuse the fact that an intruder was found on pack land. If you hadn’t come upon him before he made it to the main house, we would have had several females at risk. We cannot have this happen again. They must be protected at all costs.” “Yes, Alpha.” Alexander nodded, lowering his head and exposing his neck in deference to his leader. Laurie walked quietly into the kitchen, realizing immediately that everyone was under a great deal of stress. She could tell by the way Jace and Jackson raised their heads and took in a deep breath as she stood just outside entrance to the kitchen that they were aware that she was there. “You can’t be serious, Jace!” Janine sputtered, aware that Laurie watched from the far end of the kitchen. “What would have happened if one

Laurie’s Loves

109

of us had been attacked or killed? Would you forgive Alexander then? Or does it only matter if your bitch was attacked?” Jace’s growl of anger shut her up. “Never question the way I protect everyone in this pack, Janine. And never, ever, disrespect my chosen mate again.” The anger rolling off Jace was palpable. Janine had the good sense to lower her head, but her smug expression never faltered. There was no true sense of apology in her response. Sensing the impending meltdown of his alpha, Jackson stood and placed his hand reassuringly on Jace’s shoulder. He could feel the tension radiating from his friend, and he didn’t think he would be enough to help center his emotions this time. Jace’s wolf was too close to the surface. Laurie could hear the anger in Jace’s voice as she made her way into the room. When she stepped into the kitchen and felt the tension that Jace and Jackson were in the middle of, she didn’t hesitate. She slowly walked forward, drawn toward the two men who had come to mean so much to her. She had to do something. She could feel the emotions that were twisting inside of Jace, and the desperation to help calm his friend running through Jackson. She needed to help. Without thought, she walked toward Jace to stand behind him and placed her hand on his shoulder, then reached out and took Jackson’s hand in hers, entwining their fingers together. Jackson turned to face her and smiled, his brown eyes twinkling at her. He squeezed Jace’s shoulder and felt the anger drain away from his friend. Their bond was growing, and he knew in his heart that this woman made their triad complete. He knew that with Laurie they would never have to worry that either he or Jace would ever lose control of their wolves and go feral. Laurie would ground them and love them. They had truly found the one woman who would be the perfect mate for them. If only she would choose to stay with them. “Alexander, retain the intruder. I will speak with him later,” Jace told Alexander calmly. Alexander stood and bowed slightly. “Yes, Alpha.” He turned and walked away from the table, knowing his partner Butler would follow. Both men would make sure no member of their pack would be at risk because of the intruder. Lucian and Cole followed silently, prepared to support them in their defense of the pack.

110

Lynnette Bernard

Jace took a cleansing breath as he felt Laurie’s hand tenderly rubbing his shoulder. He could feel the beginnings of their bond radiating through the three of them, the soft tendrils of the bond a silky white ribbon gently reaching out and surrounding them. He knew Laurie had to be touching Jackson as well or he wouldn’t be feeling the sense of calm and centering that he was feeling. He closed his eyes in an attempt to keep hidden the total joy he felt at finally being a part of a fated triad. He had to deal with Janine, and his happiness could not prevent her from receiving the discipline that she deserved. Opening his eyes, he looked at Martha’s youngest child and felt a sense of fear he had never felt before as he saw the open hatred she was directing at Laurie. He saw Janine take in a deep breath and looked from Laurie to Jackson and then back to him. Jace knew immediately that she could smell their scent on Laurie and Laurie’s on them. That seemed to make her even angrier. Jackson, look at how Janine is looking at Laurie. The worry in his voice was unmistakable as he called out to his friend. I see. Jackson took a step toward Laurie, removing his hand from hers in order to place his arm around her waist and pull her toward him. He held her in his embrace, and they both leaned against Jace’s back. No one would hurt their mate. She was theirs to protect and love. “Janine, you will be restricted to the compound for the remainder of the week,” Jace told her, his voice steeled. “You will not work in the lodge until you can show us that you have put your pack-mates’ welfare above your own. If I hear of you showing one bit of disrespect toward anyone in our pack, especially your brothers or my chosen mate, you will be banished from this pack. Are we clear?” “But, Alpha, I didn’t do anything,” Janine protested. “Janine, you have placed every one of us in danger by allowing the intruder to make his way past the entrance to the lodge so that he was able to slip into the private compound. You should have been able to identify his scent to know that he was not pack. And that should have made you notify pack security of the possible risk to our people.” “Alexander and Butler are responsible for that,” Janine started to protest.

Laurie’s Loves

111

“Yes, they are,” Jace told her, raising his hand to stop her. “But they depend on the rest of us to notify them of any concerns, and you did not do that. Go to your cabin, and do not come out until I give you permission.” Janine stood and glared at Jace and Jackson, then turned to look at Laurie. The pure hatred she showed her made Jace stand and growl at her. “Go now, Janine, or I will not be so forgiving.” Janine turned and left the kitchen, ignoring her mother as she passed her. Martha twisted the kitchen towel that she held in her hands. Looking at Jace and Jackson, she wasn’t sure what to do or say. “Don’t worry, Martha,” Jace assured her. “You are not responsible for your daughter’s actions.” Martha nodded, wiping at her tears as she smiled sadly. “I’m so sorry for what she has put everyone through.” Jace nodded at the woman he loved like a mother and smiled sadly. His heart went out to her. He could never fault her for Janine’s actions. She had always been a troubled child. Martha’s love and guidance never seemed to have an effect on her. He watched silently as Martha turned and faced the kitchen sink, sadness evident in the way she held her body. Jace turned to face Laurie. “Thank you for helping me,” he told her quietly, leaning forward to kiss her forehead lightly. Laurie nodded, accepting his appreciation, but pulled away to walk over to Martha. She put her arms around the woman as she stood with her back to them and held her gently. Martha turned in her embrace and looked at her with such pain in her eyes. Laurie couldn’t stop her own eyes from filling with tears. “It’s going to be okay, Martha,” she whispered against the older woman’s soft age-lined cheek. “Give Janine time. She’ll realize as she gets older how lucky she is to have you, and she’ll settle down.” “I don’t know, Laurie,” Martha whispered, agony evident in her voice. “She’s always been such an angry child. I don’t know what else to do.” Laurie nodded and pulled Martha closer to her, giving her a heartfelt hug as she kissed her cheek lightly. “Sometimes we have to let them make their mistakes and just be there to help them when they need us. Hopefully, they’ll see the right path that we’ve shown them. We can only hope they choose it.” Laurie stepped back and looked at Martha quietly. “And if that doesn’t work, we can beat them.”

112

Lynnette Bernard

Martha laughed and wiped at her tear-stained cheeks. “Thank you, Laurie,” she told her, snickering at the suggestion. “I hope it doesn’t come to that.” Laurie smiled and squeezed Martha’s hand gently. “Go and get some rest. Things will be better tomorrow.” Martha smiled and turned to walk from the kitchen. Jace and Jackson watched silently as she left, grateful for their mate’s caring. Jace knew he wouldn’t have been able to have shown the same kindness. He was too angry with Janine to be able to show any compassion just then. And Jackson was too concerned with the look of hatred Janine had shown Laurie to care about much else. Laurie’s innate ability to comfort the members of their pack showed them again that she was the one destined to unite their pack with caring and love. She was meant to be their queen. She was meant to be their future. “Have you thought about your decision?” Jace asked her quietly as he stood apart from her, feeling a deep sense of loss at not touching her. Laurie nodded, walking toward the two men as they watched her silently. She reached out to wrap her arms around both men’s waists, pulling them into her embrace. “I want to stay with you,” she said quietly, looking up at them slowly, her eyes meeting theirs with hesitation. “I just don’t know about forever.” Jace nodded and pulled her into his arms, loving the feel of her sandwiched between him and Jackson. “Thank you, Laurie,” he whispered reverently, leaning into the crease of her neck and inhaling deeply the welcoming scent of their mate. “It’s enough for now, but I don’t know how much longer we can hold off claiming you as ours,” he told her honestly. Reaching into the front pocket of his jeans, he pulled out the delicate gold bracelet with the charm of Laurie and the two wolves and gently took Laurie’s left wrist in his hand. Laurie watched as he unclasped the bracelet and placed it around her wrist to close it securely. Laurie looked at it and smiled. “It reminds me of myself with the two wolves,” she said softly, looking up at Jace. The soft glow of his eyes made her gasp, and she looked at Jackson to find the same thing happening to his eyes. “Martha!” Jace called out firmly, waiting until the older woman returned to the kitchen. His heart hammered in his chest as he waited for

Laurie’s Loves

113

her. He knew that what he was going to ask of the older woman would help determine the future for Laurie, Jackson, and himself. Nothing scared him more than losing the mate that they had finally found, and very probably losing his humanity in the process. He knew that the last few months had been a slow path of decline for him, and he could feel his tenuous hold on his control slipping daily. Without Laurie and Jackson forming the triad bond with him, he knew he would lose his battle to keep his sanity and his humanity. “Yes, Alpha?” Martha asked quietly as she came into the kitchen, looking from one man to the other in concern. “Martha, please tell Laurie the story about the bracelet,” Jace asked the older woman gently. “After you’ve heard what Martha has to tell you, then a decision needs to be made, Laurie. We’ll accept whatever you decide, honey, but understand that what we want, what we need, is to have you accept us as your mates and live here with us. Forever. Our future is you, Laurie.” “We will never give you a moment to regret your choice,” Jackson promised, leaning in to gently kiss her lips before stepping back to give Jace access to their woman. Jace leaned forward to kiss her gently then both men turned to leave the kitchen. They both said a silent prayer to the Fates that Laurie would accept their wolves. Laurie watched them silently as they walked out onto the deck then turned to face the older woman, smiling as Martha looked at her with open love in her eyes. Martha saw Laurie’s indecision and worry, but she had no such thoughts. She knew that Laurie was Jace and Jackson’s fated triad mate who would honor their secrets and make their lives complete. Time would help Laurie accept what was meant to be. She would learn to trust her destiny just as Jace and Jackson trusted that the Fates had chosen someone who would accept them unconditionally. The Fates were never wrong. “Have a seat, Laurie,” Martha told her, smiling, joy radiating from her as she detected Jace and Jackson’s scent on her. “I have a story to tell you.” ****

114

Lynnette Bernard

Jace walked with purpose toward the cabin where Alexander and Butler had placed the intruder. Jackson walked silently beside him. Their thoughts were consumed with the possibility of Laurie not accepting them once Martha told her of their secret. Despite their fears of their mate rejecting them, they had to put them aside so they could protect their pack. And that protection would begin with the questioning of the intruder. They looked at the small cabin and hesitated. Lucian and Cole stood guard at the cabin door. “I have a gut feeling about this guy,” Jackson told Jace as they stepped onto the front porch of the cabin made specifically to house anyone within the pack or outside the pack who posed a threat to the safety of them all. Jace turned to face Jackson and nodded. “I feel it, too,” he admitted. “We’ll see if we’re right once we talk to him.” Jackson nodded and reached out to open the door to the cabin, allowing his alpha to enter before him. Alexander and Butler were standing on either side of the man who sat with his head bowed, his hands resting on his thighs. Jackson noted the dirty, ripped clothing that the young man wore that hung loosely on his slim frame. Jace stood before the man, taking in a deep breath to scent him. He looked to Jackson and knew that his beta was doing the same thing. Before they could speak, the young man raised his head and looked at them without fear. The bruise on the left side of his face surprised Jace, and he looked at his lieutenants in concern. “Is there a reason this man has been injured?” Jace asked them calmly, not liking the way the young man’s left eye was swollen shut and his bottom lip was split and nearly twice its original size. “He was this way when we found him in the visitors’ lodge, Alpha,” Alexander answered without hesitation. “You are wolf,” Jace began calmly. “Yet you did not shift to heal yourself. Why is that?” The young man looked up at Jace and swallowed nervously. “I can’t shift,” he explained calmly, unwilling to look away from the man who stood before him. He watched silently as Alpha Jace Beckett crossed his arms over his broad chest, his imposing muscles and intense stare making his nerves stretch tight.

Laurie’s Loves

115

“Why can’t you shift?” Jackson asked, stepping beside Jace to look down at the man. He couldn’t be more than twenty years old—if he was even that old. The young man shrugged, drawing attention to the fact that he was severely undernourished, as his boney shoulder protruded through the tears in his shirt. “I’ve been told that I’m a mistake. Have always been different from the rest of my pack. I can’t shift. I have no triad partner. The old ones of the pack have told my parents that I’m defective, and because of me, our pack will never be healthy. The pack decided that I was to be banished, hoping that my leaving would lift the curse that they say has affected our pack since the day I was born.” There was no bitterness in the young man’s voice. There was only a calm acceptance of who he was and what he was. Jackson stepped toward the boy and touched his shoulder lightly. When the boy turned his attention to the beta, there was something in his gray eyes that called to Jackson’s soul. The light blond hair that hung forward onto his face did little to hide the pain and sorrow that looked back up at him. Jace, there is no evil intent in this kid. I agree. “Why have you come here?” Jace asked him with a firmness in his voice that would make any man know that he was an alpha to be reckoned with. The young man hesitated. Jace could tell he was trying to decide what to tell him and hoped the boy would be truthful. “I had a dream that I would find my triad partner within your pack,” he said finally, sighing as he waited for the alpha to laugh at him and throw him off his pack’s land. “When the alpha of my old pack decided to help me make the decision to leave today, I packed up my stuff and came here.” Jace stepped forward and reached out to take hold of the young man’s chin, turning his face one way and then the other. “Butler, get Doc Barrett,” he told his lieutenant gruffly. He looked down at the boy and sighed. He could never tolerate another’s cruelty, especially to a child. It didn’t matter that this boy was into young manhood. He was a cub who needed his protection, and that was exactly what he was going to get. “What’s your name, cub?”

116

Lynnette Bernard

“Mitchell,” he answered quickly, unsure what was happening. “Am I going to be able to stay here?” he asked, his voice hesitant. He had heard about Alpha Jace Beckett. His older sister had told him that he was a strong alpha, but his sister had also told him that Beckett was a fair leader. Jace looked from the boy to Alexander and then to Jackson. He could see that they felt the same way he did about this lost soul. “You will have my protection, cub,” he told the boy with deep sincerity. “When you find your triad partner, let me know. And I want to know more about your dreams, too.” The relief in the boy’s face almost brought a smile to Jace’s face. Almost. “But know this, Mitchell,” he warned with every ounce of sternness he could muster. “If you cause harm to anyone in this pack, you will answer directly to me. And you will pray that all I do to you is banish you.” Mitchell nodded, swallowing nervously. “I will be a good member of your pack, Alpha,” he promised. “See that you are.” Jace nodded, turning to leave the cabin. “Show Mitchell to the single males’ quarters after Doc has seen to him, Alexander. Get him something to eat and some clean clothes.” Jace turned to face the boy once more. “When you are sufficiently healed, we’ll sit and discuss your role within the pack.” Mitchell nodded, offering his hand to his new alpha. He felt Jace’s power as he shook his hand, but he could also sense his goodness. His sister had been correct in her recommendation that Mitchell would be safe within this pack. His eyes never left the alpha as he left the cabin. Jace didn’t know it yet, but he had just earned himself one loyal shifter—even if he couldn’t shift. **** Laurie sat in the oversized lounge chair, looking out at the gorgeous scenery before her. She would never take this beautiful land for granted. It was peaceful. It seemed to speak to her very soul. She felt protected. She felt at home. It was wonderful. Two large shadows emerged from the tree line. She smiled as she saw the two large wolves slowly make their way toward her. They crossed the open distance, and she was unable to hold back her sigh of contentment as

Laurie’s Loves

117

they each took their place on either side of her chair as they had done before. Laurie looked at both wolves silently. They stayed where they were, waiting for her acceptance of them. She knew they wouldn’t move until she made the decision they waited for. “Did you have a nice run?” she asked them quietly, determined to stay calm despite her nervous fear because of the secret she now knew. Both wolves stepped forward and rested their heads on her thighs. Laurie looked down at them quietly, sighing slightly as she finally reached forward to run her fingers through the silky hair on their heads and stroked them both gently. “This is a lot for me to take in,” she said finally. “But on some level, I must have known what you were. Your eyes pulled at me. They showed me your hearts, and I felt a connection to you immediately even if I didn’t understand it.” Laurie leaned back in the chaise lounge and rubbed at her face tiredly. The large black wolf with the blue eyes that she knew had to be Jace stepped toward her and licked at her hand when she lowered it to her lap. The dark brown wolf with the soft brown eyes that could only belong to Jackson did the same. “Oh, don’t think your sweetness is going to make me forget that you watched me get naked in the laundry room when I fell into the stream,” she warned them angrily. She smiled when she saw both wolves close their eyes and lower their heads in obvious shame. “And we need to talk about you both being totally honest with me from now on.” She stood up then, and both wolves stepped back to give her space. She walked into the ranch through the sliding glass doors, glad that everyone had already eaten dinner and they had the kitchen to themselves. Both wolves followed her into the kitchen and stood next to the counter as she turned around to face them. “Shift,” she told them both firmly. Her breath caught in her throat as the air around the two wolves shimmered blue, and Jace and Jackson soon stood before her in their place. They were silent as they watched her, and she had to admit to herself that she was a little afraid at the miracle that had just happened before her.

118

Lynnette Bernard

“Laurie?” Jace spoke finally, his voice strong. “Does this affect your decision?” Laurie was quiet for a moment as she looked at the two men before her. “Yes,” she said finally. “I guess I’m going to have to be really good about keeping secrets because I can’t let anything ever happen to any of you because people don’t understand or are afraid.” She knew that this miracle was one that she would keep a secret to her dying day. There was no way she would ever put these men or their pack in danger. The two men retrieved the folded jeans Martha had left for them on the table, pulling them on quickly. They faced each other briefly before turning to step toward Laurie. She held up her hand, and they stopped immediately. “Do you promise to be honest with me in everything from now on?” she questioned them sternly. “Yes, sweetheart,” Jace answered seriously, the corner of his lip threatening to give way to the smile he barely held back as he looked at their mate, a true alpha female. “Will you apologize for secretly watching me in the laundry room?” she asked, blushing profusely as she remembered being naked before them. “Yes, baby,” Jackson answered, not even trying to keep the smile from his face. “But I have to tell you, darlin’, I intend to watch you every moment I can and will be thrilled out of my mind whenever you’re naked.” He reached forward and cradled her cheek in his hand. “And I, for one, am going to keep you naked as much as possible.” Jace couldn’t help but chuckle as he leaned in and kissed Laurie’s forehead gently. “I’m with you on that, Jackson.” Laurie looked up at both men and couldn’t keep the smile from her face. “You both are bad influences on me,” she told them, laughing. Jace’s smile fell from his face as he looked down at her with such seriousness that Laurie’s heart stuttered in her chest. “What have you decided, Laurie?” he asked her quietly. Laurie closed her eyes and breathed deeply, reveling in the wonder of Jace’s touch. Jackson’s hand as he encircled her waist felt warm and sure. Tears filled her eyes as she realized that she was actually being touched with caring and gentleness. She had never been touched that way in her life. To finally feel it nearly brought her to her knees. She had been truly starved for affection her whole life. These men offered her that affection with open

Laurie’s Loves

119

hearts, and they offered it with nothing but kindness and caring. Maybe they actually could grow to love her. She had always been afraid to hope that such a thing could be a part of her life. Maybe it was time to take a chance. Laurie smiled at both men, her men, and willingly leaned into the warmth of their bodies as they engulfed her in their embrace. She kissed their chests gently and wrapped her arms around their waists, leaning up to look at them as they stared down at her. She could see the longing in their eyes and knew that she could never deny them the happiness that they deserved. “You have no idea how much I want to be with you both,” she told them quietly. Before she could say another word, Jace reached out and picked her up in his arms. She squealed in surprise and struggled to get down. “Please put me down, Jace,” she begged, “I don’t have a model figure that’s easy for you to carry.” The contempt she had for herself was obvious in her voice. Jace looked down at her in shock. “Laurie, I plan on carrying you up to our bedroom and making love to you all night,” he told her calmly. “But I’m only going to warn you once. The person you are, body and soul, is exactly what Jackson and I want and need. You are never to talk about yourself in a negative way again. Am I clear on this?” Laurie looked up at him in stunned silence. She turned slightly to look at Jackson, feeling her face burn with embarrassment. The anger on his face made her turn away and lower her eyes. She pushed at Jace’s chest until he allowed her to slide down the length of his body to stand before him. She took a step away from them both, hugging her arms around herself as she fought to control her nervousness. Every insecurity she possessed overwhelmed her at that moment. “Do you have any idea how much it angers us to know that you truly believe that you’re not the beautiful, desirable, and feminine woman that we know you are?” Jackson asked her quietly, making every effort to calm himself and not lose his temper. Jace stepped toward her, backing her against the counter. Reaching down, he gently lifted her to settle her on it, reaching up to gently spread her legs and step between them. He pulled her toward him, and she could feel his erection straining against his jeans as he leaned into her body.

120

Lynnette Bernard

“I know you haven’t been treated with much respect in your life, honey,” he told her quietly. “But you will be from now on. The three of us will form the ruling triad of our pack. My word is law here. Jackson is next in command. His word is never questioned. Every one of our pack members knows that what he says and does is on my behalf. I am your alpha. Jackson is your beta.” Laurie looked at Jace, confusion making her forehead furrow. She looked to her left and saw Jackson move toward them and wrap his arms around the both of them. “What does that make me?” she asked carefully. “You, Laurie, are our heart,” Jace told her softly. “You are the one who tempers our emotions and centers our lives.” He reached up then and gently caressed her check. “It’s you who will bring the love and caring that we need to rule to the best of our abilities. Without you, we would lose our humanity and be ruled by the animal side of our nature.” “You’re the woman who will help us keep a healthy balance between wolf and man,” Jackson explained quietly, leaning forward to kiss her forehead lightly. “Without you, we would live our lives searching for the love that would save us.” “Laurie, don’t you understand?” Jace continued. “You are the mate we have waited our whole lives for. There is no more perfect match for us. Everything about you calls to us. Your scent, your humor, your kindness, your caring, your gentleness, your intelligence, your guidance, and your body.” He leaned forward to kiss her lips gently at first, soon becoming more demanding as his tongue searched along her lips until she opened up and accepted him. He groaned into her mouth and reached around her to pull her body closer against his chest, rubbing his groin against hers, loving the sound of her whimpers against his mouth. He pulled back from her and smiled at the dazed expression on her face as she looked up at him. Her lips were swollen, her eyes half closed, and he couldn’t stop the growl that escaped him as he felt her body submit to his. Jackson leaned in and covered her lips with his own, growling at her eager acceptance of his claiming. When she reached around to pull him toward her, he felt a surge of happiness burst through him. They had finally

Laurie’s Loves

121

found their jewel. And they were damn sure going to protect and love her for the rest of their lives. “Do you have any idea how much we love touching you?” Jackson finally asked her, not waiting to hear a response from her. “Do you understand how your body drives us crazy with desire?” Laurie looked at him silently, searching his face for any sign of deceit. She found none. She saw only a look of pure longing and what she hoped was unmitigated lust. She turned to face Jace and saw that his expression was guarded, but he held the same desire and want in his eyes. Pushing at them both gently, she climbed down off the counter as they stepped back to give her space. She saw the concern in their faces as she walked away from them, but didn’t give them any indication of what she was thinking. She reached the doorway that led to the main living room and turned to face them. “I’ll be in my room,” she told them quietly. Without another word, she turned and left them alone in the kitchen. Jace turned to Jackson and knew his face held the same anguished look as his beta’s. Neither man knew what to say. With Laurie’s departure from the kitchen, all life had left the room. Silently, they walked out of the kitchen and made their way to their rooms. It took every bit of strength to make it up the stairs. They couldn’t even speak to each other in their minds. There was nothing to say. They were totally and utterly devastated. They saw the door to Laurie’s bedroom was wide open, and they looked at each other in confusion. Stepping toward her room, they realized that it was dark. And empty. A sense of panic overtook them, and they feared the worst. Jace reached in and turned on the light, quickly searching the room for Laurie and finding it totally empty and all of her belongings gone. The pain in his heart was immediate. Jackson was right beside him, and he could feel the same sense of despair overpowering him. “We’ve lost her, Jackson,” Jace said tiredly. “No we haven’t, Jace,” Jackson insisted. “We can’t give up. She has to know in her heart that we’re meant to be together.” Jace shook his head and turned to leave her bedroom. This time, Jackson was wrong. She had left them. Her empty bedroom proved that. She had made her decision.

122

Lynnette Bernard

Stepping out into the hallway with Jackson right behind him, he walked toward his bedroom. The sound of a door opening at the end of the hallway pulled both of their attentions toward it immediately. They froze as one at the sight before them. Laurie stood in the open doorway of the room that they were meant to share with their mate. “It took you long enough,” she told them quietly. “Please don’t make me go to bed in this room without you.”

Laurie’s Loves

123

Chapter 12 In four long strides, Jace reached Laurie and lifted her into his arms, entering the room quickly then turning to push her roughly against the closed door. Jackson locked the door with a resounding click, then stepped beside Laurie and joined Jace in pinning her with their bodies. Jace’s growls joined his as they looked down at the woman in their arms. “You will never, never, do that to us again, Mate,” Jace growled against her throat, biting lightly to emphasize his words. Jackson reached forward and gripped Laurie’s hair in his hand to pull her head back so that she looked up at him. Her breath caught in her throat as she saw the total devastation and pain in his eyes. “You hold our hearts in your hands, Laurie,” he told her softly, his gentle brown eyes flashing golden just briefly as he looked at her. Jace leaned away from her neck and stared down at her, the same golden glow flashing in his eyes as he looked at her. The same deep sadness that she saw in Jackson’s eyes was mirrored in his as well. Laurie’s brown eyes filled with tears as she looked at both men, realizing that she had hurt them. It didn’t matter that she hadn’t meant to. She had. And she would never forgive herself for it. Reaching up, she touched each man’s face tenderly, and gently rubbed her thumb across their cheeks. “I’m sorry,” she whispered sincerely. “I’m not very good at seduction. I’ve never wanted to seduce any man before now.” Jace looked down at her and smiled, rubbing his cheek against the softness of her hand. “You were trying to seduce us?” His voice held both amusement and arousal. “All it would take for you to seduce us, sweetheart, would be a smile and a kiss.” Laurie smiled at his words. “Really?” she asked, happy that the sadness was gone from his eyes. She turned to look at Jackson and saw that his eyes

124

Lynnette Bernard

had regained the mischievous twinkle that she had come to enjoy. His tender smile made her tears flow harder. They slowly left her eyes and rolled down her cheeks. “Do you think just a kiss from me would seduce you, Jackson?” she whispered, smiling at him shyly. “Baby, there’s no doubt in my mind that one kiss from you would make me so hard I wouldn’t want to stop until I was buried so deep inside you we wouldn’t be aware of anything except that we were one.” His gaze went to the custom-made bed that dominated the room, and his cock jerked at the vision of the three of them sleeping and loving in that bed for the rest of their lives. “Did you know that there are many kinds of kisses, sweetheart?” Jace asked as he leaned into her neck and took a deep breath, taking in her scent and hugging her to him as he brought her slowly away from the wall and walked them backward toward the center of the room. “Really?” Laurie answered, smiling at him. “And are you going to tell me all about these different kinds of kisses?” Jace stepped back, reluctantly releasing his hold on her. “No, baby,” he told her, smiling, reaching up to unsnap his jeans. “We’re going to show you.” “Take off your clothes, honey,” Jackson told her quietly. Laurie shivered at the command. And it was a command. The softness of his voice could not mask his power. “Just remember that I’ll have the right to tell you to take off your clothes any time I want, too,” she told him, smiling as his right eyebrow lifted in surprise, before his eyes flashed a soft gold. Laurie smiled at the two men, appreciating the expanse of beautifully tanned skin and muscle as they slowly removed their jeans until they stood gloriously naked before her, their erections standing hard and proud as they faced her. She licked her lips in anticipation as they started closing the distance between them. They stopped just a foot from her and waited, watching as she pulled her shirt over her head and reached down to unzip her jeans and push them over her hips. She is gorgeous. Jace’s voice was nearly breathless in Jackson’s head. He took a step toward her and reached up to slowly unclasp the front closure of her peach-colored bra.

Laurie’s Loves

125

I’m going to lick every luscious curve of her body. Jackson growled as Laurie’s bra fell to the floor, and she stood before them naked from the waist up. Jace leaned forward and tenderly kissed Laurie’s forehead, closing his eyes and breathing in her wonderful scent. “As types of kisses go, that would be kiss number one,” he whispered softly. Laurie smiled and leaned into his lips, loving the gentle way he touched her. Jackson leaned against her face and gently kissed her cheek. Leaning into her hair, he whispered into her ear very softly. “And that would be kiss number two.” Laurie couldn’t stop herself from giggling as both men nuzzled against her neck and kissed her against her pulse points, sucking her flesh into their mouths before biting down gently. “That would be kiss number three,” Jace whispered, growling against her neck, using every bit of his control not to bite her too hard. Laurie’s moans of pleasure spurred them on, spiking their arousal. They stepped forward as one and wrapped their arms around her. Jackson took her mouth in a kiss that nearly made Laurie cry with the tenderness of it. “That’s kiss number four,” he whispered as he pulled back and looked down at their mate, loving the way her expression was soft and open. He was definitely liking the way she was so pliant in their arms and so open to their touch. Jace leaned in and took her mouth gently, increasing the pressure of his lips against hers as he demanded entrance. The growl that escaped him was matched by Laurie’s moan as she opened to accept his tongue and reached with her own to dance with his. Her arms tightened around both men as she lost herself in the kiss, not even realizing when Jackson’s mouth took over and kissed her until she was barely able to breathe. “That was kiss number five?” she asked, breathless and aroused beyond measure. Both men’s deep laughter made her smile. She felt the warmth of their happiness surround her, and she knew that she would be happy for the rest if her life if she made them happy. Her worries and insecurities were pushed aside for now. She wanted to be the one who gave them joy. “Yes, baby,” Jackson told her, chuckling. “That was number five.”

126

Lynnette Bernard

Both men stepped back, and she felt their loss immediately. She couldn’t stop the sound of distress that left her as she lost the connection. They looked at each other and smiled as they knelt before her as one and reached out to take hold of her waist and pull her toward them. Lifting their hands to cup her breasts and gently stroke the fullness of them, they were struck by the beauty of her softness. Leaning forward slowly, they kissed the soft undersides of her breasts before settling on the rosy pinkness of her areolas. Pulling the erect tips of her nipples into their mouths, they suckled gently at first, then increased the pressure and bit down gently until Laurie moaned and laced her fingers through their hair to pull them closer against her body. “Jace. Jackson,” she moaned, unable to give voice to the power they had over her. “That’s kiss number six,” Jace told her, his voice deep with desire. He reached up and hooked his index fingers in the waistband of her panties and slowly pulled them past her hips, leaning forward to inhale the scent of arousal that flooded her as she lifted her feet to allow him to remove the delicate material from her body. Standing, Jace drew her into his arms, growling as his fully engorged cock dragged against her body to find its home between her legs to rest tightly against the warmth of the swollen folds of her sex. He pushed against her once to appease his wolf, but his human side fought to control his claiming. Jackson came up behind her, kissing his way from the sweet swell of her ass, up her spine, to her shoulders, leaning forward to bite her right shoulder gently. Laurie moaned once again from the double onslaught of the two men’s loving. “That would be kiss number seven,” Jackson whispered against her neck. Laurie lifted her arm and reached behind her to tenderly stroke Jackson’s soft hair then turned her face to kiss him gently. Jackson smiled down at her and couldn’t keep the emotions from his face as he looked at her with all the love he was feeling for her. His heart was full as he saw the caring she couldn’t help but show him. He said a silent prayer to the Fates that she would realize just how much they both loved her.

Laurie’s Loves

127

Jace moved to climb onto the bed, bringing Laurie with him as he went. When she tried to kiss her way up his body, he stopped her with strong hands and pulled her up to kneel beside him. “No, Laurie, this night is for you,” he told her firmly. “Just let us love you.” Laurie looked at him silently for a moment, nodding slightly after thinking. “Okay for now,” she agreed, “but next time, you’re both mine.” Jackson leaned over her back, pulling at her waist to settle her on her hands and knees. “Sounds good, baby,” he told her as he reached forward to squeeze the cheeks of her ass and moan at the soft fullness of them. He kissed each cheek softly, biting her gently as she gasped in surprise at his touch. Separating the mounds of her ass, Jackson growled as he looked down at the forbidden star. “Have you ever been taken here, Laurie?” he asked, reaching forward and rubbing the puckered opening with the pads of his thumbs. “No,” Laurie whispered, confused by the excitement she felt at Jackson’s touch and the thought of them both entering her body there. “We’re not small men, honey,” Jackson told her calmly, continuing to caress her tight ring of muscle, smiling as he felt her lean into his touch. “We’ll have to prepare you over time to stretch you before we can try this. We don’t want to hurt you.” He leaned forward and licked at her opening, his tongue carefully playing with her before pushing in lightly, then leaning back to kiss the sweet opening that he knew they would soon find ecstasy within. Laurie looked up at Jace, her passion obvious on her face despite her confusion at the newness of what Jackson was doing and promising. “Jace?” she questioned, not really sure what to ask. “That would be kiss number eight, sweetheart,” he told her gently. “Don’t be afraid. Everything we do with you is out of love and desire to bring you the most pleasure and happiness.” Laurie searched his handsome face and was amazed that she was actually experiencing such beautiful lovemaking with these two incredible men. When Jace reached out and took her in his arms, she went willingly. He turned her body so that she lay on her back, and he smiled down at her with a mischievous smile that made her heart race in anticipation.

128

Lynnette Bernard

“My turn,” he told her softly, kissing his way down her body until he settled between her legs, loving that she opened herself to him without hesitation. The very width of his broad shoulders forced her to spread her legs wide, and he settled himself within the cradle of her hips, smiling as he saw Jackson lay beside her and take her into his embrace immediately. Jace leaned in to take a deep breath and absorb the wonderful scent of their mate’s desire for them. He reached forward and spread her swollen lips, running his finger along her cleft and growling at the wetness that awaited him. He couldn’t stop himself from leaning in and reaching out with his tongue to slowly lick the sweet nectar of her crème. He couldn’t stop, didn’t want to stop, loving the sound of Laurie’s mews of pleasure as he quickly plunged in and out of her warmth, sliding his tongue up to circle the engorged nub of her clit before drawing it into his mouth and suckling gently before biting down with just the right amount of pressure. Laurie came apart in Jackson’s arms as Jace pushed her over the edge. Her body bowed as she reached her climax, and she shuddered repeatedly as her orgasm raced through her, sending shockwaves through her body. Jace gently licked up the glorious release that Laurie’s body gave him. Giving her clit one last sweet kiss, he made his way up her body and took her in his embrace, sharing the afterglow of her orgasm with Jackson. “That would be kiss number nine, Laurie,” he told her quietly, his joy evident in his voice. “Number nine,” she repeated mindlessly. Both men laughed softly, loving every intimate moment with their mate. Their large hands pet her body softly, helping her to calm down from her intense climax. Each man was content in a way that they had never been in their lives. Laurie sighed and reached up to take their hands in hers. She had no words for what she was feeling. She was so overwhelmed that she couldn’t even begin to tell these men just what they meant to her. Pulling each man’s hand to her mouth, she kissed them gently, reverently, hoping her emotions would somehow be expressed to them. They both leaned in and kissed her temples gently, understanding immediately the strength of her emotions. And they couldn’t be happier. They rested their bodies against her sides, loving the feel of her naked body pressed so intimately against theirs.

Laurie’s Loves

129

Laurie smiled and sighed contentedly. As her surroundings came more into focus, she was aware of their cocks, hard and leaking against her thighs. Letting go of their hands, she reached down and took their velvet shafts gently in her hands. The sound of each man’s intake of breath made her smile, and she pulled up on their shafts with just the right amount of pressure, judging by their moans of approval. When she rubbed her thumbs across the tips of their cocks to gather the leaking fluids there, her moans joined theirs. “I think I know how to make you feel really good,” she whispered, pushing down on their cocks and pulling up again, squeezing lightly. Jace stopped her with his hand and quickly covered her body with his own. “No, Laurie,” he told her quietly, his voice tight with tension. “We need to claim you as our mate now,” he told her, looking into her eyes with such intensity Laurie couldn’t look away. “Will you accept us into your body together?” “Together?” she asked worriedly. She looked at both men, knowing that they wouldn’t hurt her, but afraid nonetheless. “Don’t worry, baby,” Jackson assured her. “We’ll be gentle. And we’ll make it so good for you.” “We need to love you together and claim you together,” Jace explained. “It’s how we’ll bond us as a triad.” Laurie looked at Jace, then at Jackson, and saw the way they held themselves. The tension they were feeling rolled over her. There was no choice as far as she was concerned. It felt right to be with these two men who put her needs and care before their own. “Yes,” she whispered. At her acceptance, the tension left them immediately. They both kissed her lips gently, resting their foreheads against hers. “Thank you, Laurie,” Jace whispered, barely able to speak. “Thank you, baby,” Jackson echoed, needing to finish the mating ritual with every fiber of his being. Jace pulled Laurie toward him until she straddled his waist. He gently held her hips as she sat up and settled herself over his cock. “Take me inside you, Mate,” he told her gently. Laurie reached down and took hold of his erection, caressing him gently as she positioned him at the entrance to her body. Watching his eyes, she

130

Lynnette Bernard

slowly lowered herself down onto his hardness, gasping as her body opened to accept his fullness. When she settled herself all the way down on his incredible width and length, she breathed in a sigh of contentment. “So good,” she whispered, smiling down at him. She could see his face tight with strain. “Are you all right?” “Baby, just move a little to get me covered in your crème,” he told her softly, struggling to remain still. “Then you need to lie on my chest so Jackson can get behind you and enter you.” Laurie lifted her hips carefully and slowly settled down on him once again, moaning her enjoyment of him deep within her body. She did it one more time, panting as intense pleasure coursed through her. Jace reached up, gripping her upper arms gently and pulling her down to settle her against his chest. When he was content with the way she was settled against him, he reached down, laced his fingers with hers and pulled them up to settle on either side of his head. Jackson carefully climbed behind Laurie and leaned forward to kiss her back tenderly. Laurie heard the snap of the opening of a bottle and the sound of liquid squirting. Jackson was taking no chances in hurting her. He was going to make sure the lube he had would ease his passage inside of her. He coated his painfully erect cock and took a deep breath. Laurie gasped as she felt Jackson’s hand spreading the cool gel around Jace’s cock, pushing gently into her and filling her with the needed lubricant. Both she and Jace moaned at his tender strokes. Jace moved his hips gently so that only the head of his shaft remained inside of her. Reaching down, Jackson took hold of his engorged length and brought it to rest beside Jace’s cock, matching the head with his triad partner’s and pushing in slowly so that both their lengths entered their mate at the same time, stretching her slowly to accept them both, inching their way deeper with a slow-but-steady stroke. Jackson watched in amazement as Laurie’s body slowly opened to accept them. He had never seen anything so erotic in his life. All three of them moaned as the men pushed inside her sweet body. The tightness of Jace’s and Jackson’s cocks inside her warm and wet pussy brought them such intense pleasure they all struggled to catch their breaths. The rightness of the moment surrounded them with a blanket of emotion. They felt their hearts reaching out to each other, searching for the

Laurie’s Loves

131

bond that was destined to be theirs. There was no more perfect moment in their lives as this moment when everything in the world fell into place, and they accepted each other without reservation. Once he and Jace were seated all the way inside Laurie, Jackson stopped and took a breath to calm himself. Leaning forward, he covered their hands with his and entwined his fingers with both of theirs. Jackson kissed Laurie’s left shoulder tenderly. He could hear Jace taking shallow breaths and knew he was trying not to move. Neither would chance hurting their mate. The next move had to be Laurie’s. “So full,” Laurie moaned. “Are you all right, honey?” Jace whispered. “Darlin’, tell us if you’re okay,” Jackson pleaded softly, his voice filled with concern when Laurie remained quiet. “I need to move,” Laurie told them almost desperately. Before either man could answer, Laurie slowly moved forward, gasping as the two men’s cocks were pulled out of her channel until just the mushroom heads remained. She pushed back down slowly, taking their lengths back inside her until they were inside her so deeply she could feel them touching the mouth of her womb. A spark of pleasure raced through her as they touched that special spot inside her that made her gasp in ecstasy. As she moved, both men picked up her rhythm and met each rise and descent of her body with matching movements of their own. Jackson’s and Jace’s hips snapped with each thrust, losing themselves in the dance of their mating, experiencing such intense pleasure and joy at finally joining with their mate. Time dissolved into a myriad of emotions and feelings. They knew only the sounds of their lovemaking, the feel of their bodies joining, and the joy of their hearts forming their triad. Laurie’s keening signaled her impending release. Both men’s canines dropped, and their eyes changed to a golden hue indicating their wolves were finally free. As one, they leaned forward to bite Laurie where her neck met her shoulder, Jace on her right shoulder and Jackson on her left. As their lengthened canines sank into Laurie’s flesh, all three found their release, and their moans and howls blended to form a symphony of completion. Laurie couldn’t stop the tears from falling as she felt the warmth of a ribbon of white energy reaching out from herself and each of her men, surrounding

132

Lynnette Bernard

them and interlacing with each other. They each felt the immediate bond of emotions as they snapped into place, irrevocably joining their souls. Three hearts soared in total joy and joining as Jace’s and Jackson’s cocks swelled and knotted inside of Laurie, pulling another moan of pleasure from her. Their seed filled her as pulse after pulse shot deep inside of her, finding a warm and loving home within her. Their triad of love was formed. Their mating was complete. Both men licked at Laurie’s mating marks tenderly, closing the wounds and feeling a deep satisfaction that she bore their marks. She was good and truly claimed. They were finally one. “Baby, are you all right?” Jace asked, gently pushing her hair from her face as she lay against his chest. “Is she all right, Jace?” Jackson asked worriedly. Jace looked at Laurie and smiled proudly. Jace? She’s passed out, Jackson. We are that good. Yes we are. Both men chuckled. They couldn’t be happier or prouder that they had pleasured their mate into unconsciousness. Laurie’s vaginal muscles squeezed them tightly, drawing gasps of pleasure from them both, and one last spurt of seed was released from each of them. Be quiet and go to sleep. I’m tired. Jace looked at Laurie in shock then turned to look at Jackson, a satisfying grin covering his face. Their triad mate was completely bonded to them, for only a truly bonded triad could talk to each other telepathically.

Laurie’s Loves

133

Chapter 13 Laurie moaned as she turned into the warmth that cuddled against her right side. Her forehead furrowed as the soreness in her body settled into one steady throb between her legs. Goodness, she ached. She leaned into Jace’s chest, inhaling his scent slowly, relaxing immediately when his arms tightened around her and pulled her closer. “Sore, honey?” he asked her quietly, kissing the top of her head gently. She was glad her face was turned into the hard wall of muscle of his chest. She knew her face had to be red with embarrassment at his intimate question. Opening her eyes slightly, she couldn’t help but sigh at the mouthwatering sight before her. The black hair that dusted Jace’s chest made her breath catch in her throat. Without thinking, relying purely on instinct and need, she leaned forward and kissed his chest lightly, not stopping until she placed soft kisses across his chest to stop at the small, copper colored disc of his nipple. She opened her mouth slightly and took it into her mouth, kissing it gently before sucking on it and gently biting down, claiming possession. She smiled at the sound of his indrawn gasp and moan of appreciation as she suckled the morsel with alternating flicks of her tongue. Her arms tightened around his waist, and she pulled his body against hers, loving the feel of his naked skin in full contact with her entire body. The impressive erection that nestled against her belly kicked up her need for him, and she couldn’t stop herself from lifting her leg and encircling his hip, bringing his cock closer to where she wanted him to be, needed him to be. Reaching between them, she grasped the velvet steel of him and placed him between her legs to rest against the swollen lips of her pussy before releasing him and rocking against him slowly, loving the feel of him pressed so intimately against her. His moan of desire soon turned to a growl as his right hand reached for her hip and pulled her toward him, maneuvering her

134

Lynnette Bernard

leg off his hip, successfully trapping his cock tightly between her thighs. Unable to stop himself, he canted his hips back and forth, loving the feel of her body surrounding him and bringing him intense pleasure. Hearing her moan of discomfort, he froze and pulled back to look down at her. Despite the passion that filled her soft brown eyes as she looked up at him, he could see that she was hurting. And he’d be damned if he would be the cause of her pain. Pulling back, he removed his cock from between her legs and reached out to gently pet her face. “I’m sorry, sweetheart,” he whispered, kissing her lips lightly. “I should have controlled myself. I don’t want to hurt you. I know you’re sore.” Laurie smiled up at him and nodded. “Just a little,” she admitted quietly. Jace chuckled but sobered quickly as he searched the adorable face that looked up at him with total trust and honesty. “More than just a little, baby,” he corrected her. “Jackson and I are big men. Having both of us deep inside of you at the same time had to have been a shock to your body.” Laurie looked up at him, blushing prettily. “But I liked having you both inside me at the same time,” she whispered. “It made me feel like I belonged to both of you.” Jace’s heartbeat doubled at her words. She didn’t realize that what she said was what they hoped she would feel. Reaching up, he traced his mating mark on her right shoulder. “You do, baby,” he whispered, unable to keep the emotion from his voice. “Why?” she asked suddenly. He looked down at her and smiled. “Why what, honey?” “Why were you both inside me at the same time?” The passion that ignited in Jace’s eyes shocked her. When she saw the soft golden glow that flashed at her before dissipating and returning to crystal blue as he looked down at her with obvious caring, she couldn’t stop herself from sighing contentedly. She would never get used to the way he looked at her. The way both men looked at her. It made her feel cherished. It made her feel loved. “During a triad mating, both men need to be inside their mate at the same time,” he explained softly. “The triad partners enter their mate at the same time, uniting their essence in their mate’s body. This makes their woman’s body adapt to the bonding, accepting the men as hers. That connection is strengthened when their seed is released deep inside of their

Laurie’s Loves

135

mate’s body, and their mating knot prevents them from withdrawing until every last bit of seed finds its way to their mate’s womb. Once the men mark their chosen mate with their mating bite, the ritual is completed.” Laurie looked up at him silently, taking in his words. He could see her mind racing, and he couldn’t stop the smile that covered his face at the joy of his mate’s quiet intelligence. “Doc says the combining of our seed within your body will change your DNA to be compatible with ours,” Jace explained quietly, stroking her shoulder gently. “Will it always be that way?” “What way?” “The mating knot.” Jace chuckled and leaned forward to kiss her forehead gently and pull her into his embrace. “I’ve never been mated before,” he told her, laughing quietly. “We’ll just have to wait and see, won’t we?” Laurie nodded and realized suddenly that they were alone. “Where’s Jackson?” she asked, worry edging her voice. “Ask him and find out,” Jace told her, smiling. “What do you mean?” “Talk to him. Ask him where he is.” Laurie shrugged. It seemed ridiculous to her, but she did as she was told. “Jackson, where are you?” she called out, her voice strong. Jace chuckled and shook his head. “No, honey. Call to him in your mind. He’ll hear you.” Laurie eyed him warily. “Yeah, sure,” she said finally. “Really, baby,” he insisted. “You received that gift when we bonded last night. You even told us to be quiet because you were tired. Bossy little mate.” Laurie couldn’t help but smile at his words. She vaguely remembered doing just that, but she couldn’t be sure if she had done it verbally or mentally. Maybe he was telling her the truth. He hadn’t told her anything but the truth so far. And they could very easily have withheld secrets from her about their wolf nature, but they hadn’t. As a matter of fact, they were determined to tell her everything before she consented to accept them as mates in her bed. Well, their bed.

136

Lynnette Bernard

“How do I do this?” she asked, believing that she was about to be let in on an amazing miracle. “Just think it. Jackson will hear you.” Jackson, where are you? She thought it calmly, unsure if she expected an answer or not. I’m with Martha, honey. She’s giving me something to ease your soreness. Jace, is she doing all right? Laurie gasped more at Jackson’s words than at the fact that she could hear them. “You are discussing my soreness with Martha?” she nearly screeched in embarrassment, both verbally and mentally. She could hear Jackson chuckling in her mind, and her embarrassment quickly turned to anger. “How can you share such intimate things with someone else?” she gasped in horror, tears immediately stinging her eyes. Jace, I can feel her falling apart. I’m on my way. Hurry, Jackson. We need to help her. Laurie pushed away from Jace, pulling the sheet with her to cover her nakedness as she scooted to the far side of the bed. Before she could say a word, the bedroom door opened, and Jackson stood there looking at her with such anguish she almost relented in her anger. Almost. Jackson closed the door behind him, locking it securely before walking toward the bed, and placing two plastic containers on the nightstand beside the bed. He sat on the edge of the bed, getting as close to Laurie as he dared. Her anger and hurt rolled off her and filled his chest. Her tears broke his heart. “Baby, please don’t be upset,” he tried to soothe her, reaching out to touch her hand gently. She pulled away and pressed her back against the headboard. She closed her eyes and covered them with shaking hands as visions of years of being humiliated by her ex flashed through her mind. She didn’t realize that she was projecting her memories to Jace and Jackson until she heard them gasp. Their instant low growls of anger filled the room. As one, they reached forward to draw her into their arms and settle her between them. “You saw what I was thinking?” she whispered, horror and embarrassment warring within her. “I can’t even keep my thoughts to myself? You’ll know every humiliation, every secret I have.”

Laurie’s Loves

137

“No, sweetheart,” Jace assured her, rubbing her arm soothingly. “It’s just because this is new to you. Once you learn how to control it, we’ll only be gifted with what you want to share with us. But what we saw is something you will never experience with us. Ever.” “It’s like putting a barrier in place,” Jackson explained gently, drawing Laurie away from the horror she had experienced and unknowingly shared with them. “Keep yourself in a white light of protection at all times. You’ll get used to doing it without having to think about it. And when you want to talk to us or send us a thought or a picture, you allow the bubble of white light to open to include us in your thoughts.” “Try it, honey,” Jace encouraged her. “Close your eyes and picture yourself in a bubble of protection.” Laurie looked from one man to the other, willing her emotions under control as they tenderly held and comforted her. Closing her eyes, she pictured herself surrounded by a white light of protection. Without realizing she was doing it, she reached out and took both men’s hands in hers. Bringing them up to her chest, she squeezed them tightly as the bubble of pure white light surrounded the three of them. Jace looked at Jackson and smiled. Her vision was projected to them both with a clarity that made his heart happy. She instinctively included them in her protection. “Honey, make the bubble only surround you for now,” Jackson told her gently. “That way we can show you how to open it to send us thoughts.” Laurie nodded and very slowly pulled at the white light of protection so that it surrounded only her. She didn’t like that Jace and Jackson were outside the bubble. It bothered her that she wasn’t protecting them. “Very good, Laurie.” Jace’s deep voice praised her sincerely. “Now try to open a small part of that bubble, like opening a window, and send us a picture of some thought that you have.” Laurie nodded slowly and concentrated on opening only a small part of the bubble. She opened her eyes and smiled seductively, causing both men to look at her in confusion, then slammed them with a picture of the three of them, naked, with Jace’s cock deep in her pussy and Jackson’s cock deep in her mouth. Without hesitation, Laurie threw complete sexual release at both of them, causing all three of them to orgasm immediately.

138

Lynnette Bernard

“Holy shit!” Jackson roared as he came so hard in his pants he nearly passed out. Jace was speechless. His cum soaked the sheets, and his breathing was labored. “What Jackson said,” he finally rasped out. He looked at Laurie and saw the sated look of their woman, completely satisfied with herself. Both men leaned against her, pulling her tightly into their embrace as they lay beside her, breathing heavily as they fought to calm down. “I think you’ve got the hang of it, Laurie,” Jace told her finally, amusement evident in his voice. “Think so?” she asked proudly. “Baby, you’re going to kill us.” Jackson laughed, reaching up to possessively cover her breast and caress it lightly. “I’ll only kill you if you tell anyone about what happens between us again,” she warned them both. “I swear to you, Laurie, I did not tell Martha one thing about us,” Jackson insisted, leaning up to look down into her eyes. Laurie looked up at him and saw the anguish in his eyes. She didn’t want to give in, but she could see the honesty there, too. “Laurie, every member of our pack knows what happens during a bonding,” Jace explained softly. “The way a woman is taken during the bonding is always the same. Every member of our pack knows this. And they know that the woman of the triad needs to be cared for after the bonding.” “Martha was just giving me what she gives to every newly bonded triad,” Jackson told her, his voice sincere. “She is taking care of you just as she takes care of every newly bonded female.” Laurie looked at both men, wanting desperately to believe them. “Really?” she whispered. Both men nodded, smiling softly at her. “Close your eyes and open yourself to us, honey,” Jace told her quietly. “Reach out with your heart and call to us. You’ll be able to feel our emotions. We can’t hide anything from you. It’s a part of the gift of the bonding. You’ll always be able to reach out and sense what we’re feeling. It’s a way for us to always be sure that the others of our triad are safe. Jackson and I have been able to do that from the time we were teenagers. We’ve never told that to anyone else. We knew that

Laurie’s Loves

139

what we could do was not the way it was for others. It usually only happens when a triad bonds.” Laurie closed her eyes and concentrated on the two men beside her. She could feel their concern. She could sense their honesty. And tears immediately filled her eyes as she felt their honest caring for her. Jace and Jackson closed their eyes and reached out to her. They could feel her fear and her uncertainty. But what caused their hearts to seize with happiness was the true and pure sense of love and longing that she tried to hide behind the protective bubble of white light. The Fates would not allow her to keep that part of herself from them. They nuzzled into her neck and sniffed the scent of their bonded mate, licking at their mating marks and drawing a groan of appreciation from Laurie. They would allow her the cautious shielding of her heart. When the time was right, she would allow them to see what they already knew to be true. “So what did Martha give you to help me?” she asked, trying to deflect the intensity of the moment while at the same time needing to know. “Are you very sore, baby?” Jackson asked, concerned. “Have you looked at the size of your cocks?” she asked, stunned by her inability to prevent herself from saying exactly what she was thinking. She blushed immediately and covered her face with her hands. Both men laughed then growled as they leaned in to pull her hands from her face and smile down at her. “Only for you, sweetheart,” Jace promised, his voice tender. “I’m glad,” she whispered, smiling at both men with a sparkle in her eye. “Now what are you going to do to help me?” Jackson kissed her quickly and lay next to her on her pillow. “Martha gave me some healing salts to put in your bathwater. And she gave me an herbal ointment to rub around and into your sweet pussy.” He smiled as she blushed brightly. “But the first thing we need to do is something we knew about without Martha having to tell us.” Laurie looked at Jackson and waited for him to explain. When he remained silent, she turned to Jace and saw him smiling down at her. “What?” she asked, totally at a loss. “Our saliva has healing properties,” Jace explained, smiling. “When we bit you to mark you, we used our tongues to help in the healing of the mark and the easing of the pain.”

140

Lynnette Bernard

Laurie looked at him and nodded, understanding his explanation. Their tongues had eased her pain. In fact, she felt no pain at all. She gently touched the marks on each side of her neck and found that they were already healed. Her eyes widened as understanding finally hit her. Her blush deepened even as her desire for the intimacy with her two men spiked within her body. “Our saliva, mixed with your crème, will speed up the healing process,” Jace told her, his eyes flashing with need. Jackson pulled the sheet away from her body, gazing at the beauty of their mate and growling in anticipation. “Open your mind to us, Laurie,” he told her. “Feel what we feel when we look at you, when we touch you, when we join with you. Keep your bond open to us. You will never question our feelings again.” Laurie’s breath caught in her throat as she opened her bond and felt the immediate warmth from both men. She felt the desire they felt only for her. She felt the appreciation they had for her kindness and her intelligence. And she felt their primal male attraction to her body. She was overwhelmed by their honest and total acceptance of who she was. She cried out with pleasure as she felt Jackson’s mouth cover her clit. When did he move down her body to place himself intimately against her? When did she open her legs without any hesitation or fear? She had no memory of her immediate acceptance of his ownership, but she knew it was right. Looking down at him, she carded her fingers through the soft silkiness of his dark brown curls and pet him as he continued to lave her swollen folds, feeling beginning relief in her soreness immediately. She turned and faced Jace, unable to say a word before his lips covered hers and demanded entrance to the sweetness of her mouth. She had no power to deny him, nor did she want to. She moaned into his mouth, accepting his tongue and sucking on it lightly. His responding growl sent bursts of happiness through her. Jackson continued to lick every inch of her pussy, spreading her swollen pink lips carefully as he kissed and licked every drop of her wetness from her. Leaning forward, he captured her clit in his mouth, sucking on it and swirling his tongue around it before biting down gently and drawing the swollen nub into his mouth.

Laurie’s Loves

141

Laurie’s scream of release made him smile, and he eagerly extended his tongue to lap up the fresh gush of crème that rushed from her body. He would never get enough of her body, her taste, or her heart. He gently kissed her pussy then rose to lie beside her. Carefully caressing her body, he soothed her with gentle words as Jace tenderly kissed her face. Once her breathing was more under control, Jackson reached over to take her lips with his, demanding entrance to her mouth and moaning when she immediately opened to him, sucking on his tongue as if she would die if she didn’t kiss him. He was aware that Jace moved down her body and placed himself between her still-open legs, knowing his triad partner would find pure ambrosia waiting for him there. When Laurie moaned against his mouth he knew that Jace had begun the healing ritual. Before they were through, Laurie’s body would have no soreness. By tonight she would be ready to take them again. And the thought ramped up his desire for her. Jace was in heaven. The taste of their mate satisfied a hunger in him that he never could have believed would ever be quenched. Laving the delicate pink folds before him, he found himself wanting to take away all the pain from their woman and give her unbelievable pleasure. Reaching in to the sweet depths of her body with his tongue, he tasted her arousal. He tasted her need. And something more. Licking up to her clit, he sucked the distended nub into his mouth and suckled with sure-and-constant pressure, not letting up until he heard his mate cry out his name as her release slammed through her body. He licked up the proof of her release and kissed her intimately, loving the scent and taste of their woman. “Enough,” she gasped, pulling at his hair to bring him up to her embrace. She held both men to her, loving the feel of their weight as their chests lay heavily against her. She rubbed her hands soothingly across their backs, scoring her nails down the bulging muscles of their torsos until she landed on their backsides. She loved the feel of Jace’s naked ass and whined with distress that Jackson’s was covered by his jeans. “You need to take these off,” she told him, pulling at the waistband of the offending material.

142

Lynnette Bernard

Jackson chuckled and lifted himself off of her. She felt the loss of him immediately. When she reached out for him, she realized that Jace had also removed himself from her side and knelt beside her. “We need to get you into the bathtub and let you soak in the water with the salts Martha gave us.” Jace’s voice held tenderness for her, and he held out his hand to help her from the bed. She moved slowly, still a little sore, and was grateful for the help. After grabbing the small plastic container of bath salts from the bedside table, Jackson was by her side quickly, taking her other hand and leading her into the bathroom. Jace reached forward and turned on the tap of the most incredibly decadent bathtub Laurie had ever seen. She looked around the bathroom, seeing it for the first time. She realized that these men, her men, had made this suite with every thought of sharing it one day with their triad mate. Everything about its size, its decadence, its design, was meant to create a cocoon of warmth and love to provide a haven, a home, for them. She could feel it. “Come on, baby. Step in,” Jackson encouraged her. She saw the empty plastic container on the side of the tub and realized that she had missed quite a bit of time as she was lost in thought about her men. My men. Looking up, she saw that Jace was already in the sunken tub and was reaching out his hand to help her step down into it. She looked over at Jackson and smiled as he was carefully peeling his pants from his body, a small moan of appreciation escaping her as she saw the sticky proof of his release clinging to the material of his underwear and his already hard cock. Turning to look at Jace, she saw that he was in the same state of arousal. As the three of them sat back in the tub, Laurie was amazed by its size. Jace’s six foot five inch frame fit comfortably as he sat, his long muscular legs stretched out before him with room to spare. Jackson was no slouch with his six foot three inch frame fitting comfortably as he happily sat beside her. Both men’s broad shoulders and muscled bodies sandwiched her between them, and she found that she felt small and protected, something she had never felt in her life before now. Closing her eyes, she couldn’t help the sigh of complete and utter contentment that escaped her. She didn’t see the men look at each other and

Laurie’s Loves

143

exchange a smile and a silent communication of their own complete happiness. She smiled as she felt each man gently wash her with soft cloths and allowed someone else to take care of her for the first time in her life. “Come on, baby,” Jace’s voice called to her as if from a distance. “Let’s get you out of here before the water gets too cold.” “Did I fall asleep?” she asked, confused. “Yes, sweetheart,” Jackson answered as he helped Jace steady her beside the tub so they could wrap a large, soft towel around her. “Must be all that satisfied lovin’,” he teased her. She opened her eyes and reached out to touch both men’s arms gently. “Must be,” she agreed, smiling softly at them both. Their eyes flashed with lust, glowing golden as they looked at her. She opened her heart to them and smiled as she felt the total joy that they experienced at her words. They led her back toward the bed, waiting patiently as Jace covered the wet spot where he had released earlier with the towel that Laurie wore, leaving her naked before them. Jackson turned to her and lifted her slowly into his arms, walking the remaining two steps toward the bed and gently placing her in the center. Jackson sat against the headboard, pulling Laurie into his embrace to cradle her with his legs. She leaned into his body without hesitation, smiling at Jace as he knelt before them, opening Laurie’s legs and running his hands gently up her thighs to lightly pass his thumbs across her pubic bone. He smiled at the moan that escaped Laurie’s mouth, looking up to share his happiness with Jackson before smiling down at the gentle softness of their mate. She lay before him, open to him and accepting his touch without hesitation. “Laurie,” he whispered softly, waiting for her to open her eyes and look at him. He couldn’t prevent the burst of emotion that exploded through him at the sensual look she gave him. “Yes?” She looked at him with such open trusting that he could barely breathe. “I need to massage you with some of the salve Martha gave us,” he told her, touching the soft curls that covered her sweet pussy. When she looked at him silently, he leaned forward and kissed her lips lightly. “I’ll be gentle.

144

Lynnette Bernard

I promise. It will help with your swelling, but it will make you more sensitive.” Laurie laughed and reached out to touch his cheek gently. “If I get any more sensitive I’ll never be conscious,” she told him with complete honesty. She felt Jackson’s rumble of laughter behind her. She snuggled against the warmth of his chest and reached down with her left hand to take his hand in hers and squeeze it gently. Would she ever get used to being so tenderly held and cared for? Did these men realize how much their comfortable acceptance of her made her feel so totally cherished? Jackson kissed the side of her neck gently, making her moan in response. Jace leaned toward her neck and breathed in deeply, growling at the scent of their mate. He nuzzled against her cheek, dragging his face against hers, wanting her scent on him as much as he wanted his own on her. “I’m going to push some of the salve deep inside you, too,” he whispered against her lips, smiling when Laurie leaned into his kiss and gave herself to him completely. “Okay,” she whispered lightly, leaning back and smiling at the flash of arousal that lit Jace’s eyes. She could see his wolf below the surface, amazed that she could now distinguish the difference. She turned to look at Jackson, amazed to see the same level of possessiveness emanating from his wolf. “Lift up, baby.” Jace’s deep voice broke into her thoughts. She turned to face him once again and lifted her hips so he could adjust the towel beneath her. Once she settled herself down on the soft towel, she watched in silence as he gently covered her mound with a warm washcloth. She leaned into Jackson’s embrace as she watched Jace pull the washcloth away from her body and carefully touch her swollen folds. Laurie moaned lightly as Jace moved her legs to open her totally to him, gently running his index finger through her folds as he carefully examined her. Leaning back slowly, he looked into Laurie’s eyes and smiled. There was a sense of possessiveness as he looked at her. And Laurie knew without a doubt that Jace truly did own her, body and soul. Jackson moved from behind her and sat to her left as she lay back against the bedding. He reached out and gently pet her swollen mound, pulling a moan from her at his touch. He looked from her sweet pussy to her face and smiled, his eyes flashing with the same look of possessiveness that

Laurie’s Loves

145

Jace’s own eyes had flashed just seconds before. The man and wolf of both of them truly owned her. Jace moved to her right side, handing Jackson the small plastic container that he had taken from the bedside table. “It’s the herbal salve Martha gave me,” Jackson explained when he saw Laurie look at the container in question. Laurie nodded and reached up to touch each man’s face tenderly as they moved to kneel beside her on the bed. She would never be able to forget the way they looked at her at this moment. She closed her eyes and took a deep breath. She could feel the men reaching out with their bond to make sure that she was all right, and was careful to keep her feelings of inadequacy from them. She sent them a burst of warmth and happiness to show them how much she loved being with them. Their growl and immediate response of contentment made her know that they felt the same. Jace reached down and took her right leg in his hand, gently running his hand up to her thigh and urging her to open herself up to them. Jackson did the same to her left leg, and she found, to her utter surprise, that she felt no embarrassment at this intimacy. She gasped slightly at the coolness of the healing balm as they rubbed it against her pussy, moaning slightly as their thick fingers eased the gel into her. They carefully massaged it repeatedly into her still-swollen folds, careful to keep their touch light and soothing. She could feel the effects of the healing properties immediately. “That feels so good,” she whispered, unable to keep quiet as their fingers entered her and rubbed the salve deep inside of her. “Is the soreness gone, honey?” Jace asked her, his voice filled with concern. “You don’t ache?” Jackson added, his soft brown eyes searching hers. She shook her head and opened her eyes to look at the two men. They were the most caring and gentle men she had ever known. “No.” Her voice was barely audible. “But you do.” Before either man could question her meaning, Laurie reached up and took both of their erections in her hands. They gasped in pleasure as she stroked them slowly, passing her thumb over their weeping slits before she firmly squeezed and pushed down the length of them again. She smiled as

146

Lynnette Bernard

both men groaned and pushed into her touch. She could barely contain her joy as they allowed her to do what she wanted to them. Leaning up, she licked the drop of pre-cum from Jackson’s cock, kissing it lightly before turning to do the same to Jace’s. She loved the taste of them. Each man’s flavor was unique, each was different, but both satisfied a need in her. Reaching beneath both engorged shafts, she found their heavy and full sacs, taking them in her hands to squeeze them gently. Both men moaned, and she was consumed by a deep happiness at pleasing them. “Please come inside me,” she whispered, smiling softly as each man looked at her with such need and desire. “Baby, we can’t,” Jace told her sadly. “You need to heal.” “But I need you,” she told them honestly, unable to explain the deep need she had to have their seed inside of her. “Tonight we’ll be able to bury ourselves deep inside of you,” Jackson explained carefully, his voice heavy with emotion. “You need the day to allow the healing balm to help you.” Laurie continued to gently caress their heavy sacs. “Do you know how much I love touching you?” she asked, not waiting for an answer as she stroked them carefully. “I love the strength of your bodies. I love the way your muscles tighten when you hold me. I love the way your bodies feel lying beside mine, your naked skin touching mine. I love the way your hands are so gentle when you touch me, and strong when you protect me. You make me feel cherished.” Laurie looked up and saw that both men had tears in their eyes as she spoke to them. She couldn’t stop. She could feel through their bond that they needed to hear what she felt for them, and she wanted them to know exactly what they meant to her even if baring her soul to them made her afraid. “I love that you desire me, because I desire you.” “I need to mark her, Jace,” Jackson groaned. Jace nodded, knowing exactly what he meant. He had that same insistent and urgent need. As one, both men reached down and grabbed their painfully swollen members, pumping furiously, a sharp contrast to the gentle caressing they felt as Laurie held their sacs tenderly in her hands. It didn’t take long. Their seed shot out in continuous pearly ropes onto Laurie’s chest and belly, coating her with their essence and scent. Their howls of pleasure erupted from them as they came.

Laurie’s Loves

147

Their chests heaved from their release. They looked down at their mate lying before them and growled as their possession of her was strengthened. Laurie smiled up at them, totally happy to be covered with the warmth of their seed. Both men looked down at their woman. A sweeter sight was never possible. They growled low in their throats, both of them echoing the same word in her head at the same time. Mine. The tears that filled Laurie’s eyes were tears of joy, and she opened her heart to them without hesitation. If this were to end tomorrow, she would have the most wonderful memories to last her a lifetime. Reaching forward, they rubbed their release into her body, caressing her breasts and belly as they did so. Laurie sighed in contentment as their hands continued to massage their seed into her body. Without hesitation, she reached out and opened her arms to them. They quickly went into her embrace and settled to lie beside her, nuzzling into her neck and licking at their mating marks. They lay quietly, wrapped in each other’s arms. Time slipped away as they gave themselves over to the feeling of complete and utter contentment. The men’s warmth soothed Laurie, and their strong heartbeats against her chest made her happier than she had ever been in her life. “Jace? Jackson?” she finally whispered. “I think we need another bath.”

148

Lynnette Bernard

Chapter 14 Laurie, where are you, honey? A scream and the sound of a crash answered Jace’s question. Both he and Jackson raced from their office and ran into the kitchen as fear gripped them. Laurie! Jackson’s panicked voice called to her as he followed Jace, stopping short as he saw Laurie kneeling down to pick up the broken pieces of a ceramic mixing bowl. “Martha, I’m so sorry.” Laurie’s anguished voice met their ears as they slid to a halt beside the kitchen sink. Laurie’s tear-filled eyes met theirs as she looked up at them briefly before turning her gaze back to the older woman. Martha knelt down beside Laurie slowly, reaching out to take the pieces of the broken bowl from her and handing them to Julia as she came to stand beside them. “Please, my Alpha,” Martha murmured, trying to soothe Laurie. “A broken bowl means nothing. All that matters is that you’re all right. Did you cut yourself?” “No, I’m fine,” Laurie assured her, reaching out to take Martha’s hand, allowing the older woman to help her to her feet. She found herself immediately hugged by the woman and melted into the softness of her embrace. She realized as Martha soothed her, Julia’s hands were rubbing her arm, and little Tammy was clinging to her leg. The open caring of the three females touched her heart, and she couldn’t help but laugh through her tears. “You are all so wonderful,” she told them as she leaned back, reluctantly stepping out of their embrace. Just Tammy still clung to her leg, looking up at her with fear in her eyes. “Are you okay, Laurie?” Tammy asked her sweetly, trying very hard not to cry.

Laurie’s Loves

149

Laurie reached down and took the tiny child in her arms to lift her onto her hip and hug her tightly. “I’m fine, honey,” she assured her. “I guess we’ll have to find another bowl so we can make the cookies.” She kissed the little girl’s cheek sloppily, rubbing into her face to tickle against her neck. Tammy dissolved into giggles, just as Laurie had intended, all drama and worry leaving her. With one last hug, she lowered Tammy to the floor, smiling at her mom and winking. Julia smiled at her and reached out to take Tammy’s hand in hers. “Come on, honey,” Julia told her daughter gently, tugging at her hand and bringing her with her to the cabinet underneath the center island. “Let’s find another bowl and get all the ingredients we’ll need to make the chocolate chip cookies.” “Okay, Mommy,” Tammy said happily, pulling open the cabinet door and sitting on the floor to study the stack of bowls before her, wanting to pick just the perfect one for their task. Laurie smiled down at the little girl then turned to face Martha. “I’m really sorry, Martha,” she told her sincerely. “When Julia and I go shopping later, I’ll buy you a new bowl to replace the broken one.” “No.” Martha stopped her quickly. “You will not do that. You’re part of our pack now, not an outsider. We care about each other and help each other.” Martha stepped forward and hugged her quickly, leaning forward to whisper in her ear. “We’re lucky that you’ve found your way to us and have made my boys so happy.” Stepping back, she turned and faced the sink, reached out to open the tall cabinet to the right of it, and started taking down ingredients from the pantry for the cookies Tammy wanted to make. Laurie raised her right hand to her face, trying to hide the quiver of her mouth as she fought to keep her tears at bay. They are so kind. Her voice was choked as she mentally voiced her thoughts so sincerely, watching the women before her. Sweetheart, they love you. Jace’s voice spoke softly in her head. She turned to face him, smiling softly at him before her face changed to one of annoyance. I wouldn’t have dropped the bowl if you hadn’t scared the hell out of me! Jackson snickered and fought to control himself when Jace turned his annoyance toward him. You have something you’d like to say, Jackson?

150

Lynnette Bernard

Jackson raised his hands in defense and stepped back. No, Alpha. But she’s right. You have to let her get used to being able to hear us in her mind before you boom in her head when you talk to her. Thank you, Jackson. Laurie nodded and smiled openly at him. Jackson leaned forward and kissed her lips gently. Any time, baby. Jace leaned forward and took Laurie into his arms, pulling her sweet body against his. I’m sorry, sweetheart. I didn’t realize that I would scare you. I’m so used to talking to Jackson that way, it didn’t occur to me that I would frighten you. Laurie looked up at him and couldn’t stop herself from leaning into his arms, laying her head on his chest, and snuggling into his embrace. Give me some time to get used to it. Just try to talk softly until I do. Laurie leaned back and lifted her hands to gently frame his face, pulling him down toward her and sweetly kissing his lips. Stepping out of his embrace, she walked over to Jackson, smiling as he opened his arms to her immediately and leaned down to accept the light kiss she offered him. She looked up at both men and winked. That’s kiss number one. Turning, she walked back toward the women and focused on their project, laughing softly as she heard the two men growl behind her. Memories of them showing her nine different kisses the night before made her more than determined to give them just enough to heighten their anticipation because she intended to kiss them senseless in ever-increasing intensity and variety over the course of the day. Both men smiled at her before turning to leave their mate to her project. Jace sent the picture he had in his memory to Jackson of Laurie holding Tammy and kissing her, comforting her. Jackson smiled at the image and reached out to place his hand on Jace’s shoulder. “She’s amazing, isn’t she, Jace.” Jace nodded, almost too overwhelmed to speak. **** Jace? Jackson? Are you in your office? Laurie’s hesitant voice called to both men. They looked at each other and smiled. Their mate’s voice in their head made them feel a sense of happiness that they had been lacking in their

Laurie’s Loves

151

lives. They knew that her being with them made them know that all was right in their world. Yes, sweetheart. Jace answered her immediately, careful to keep his voice soft in her head. Is everything okay? There was only silence. Jackson looked at Jace and stood immediately, fear grabbing at their hearts. Baby, what’s wrong? Jackson’s voice held the panic he was feeling. Nothing. Laurie’s voice answered immediately. Would you mind if I came into your office? Of course not, Laurie. Jace walked over to the door of their office, pulling it open quickly. He looked toward the kitchen and saw her standing by the sink with Martha and Julia, a platter filled with cookies in her hand. He opened his arms to her, and she walked the short distance to him immediately, stepping into the warmth of his embrace and allowing him to pull her into their office and close the door behind them. Jackson stepped up behind her, successfully pinning her between them. Leaning down into her neck he took a deep breath, taking in her delicious scent. He could detect a subtle difference in her scent, and he found that the difference made him extremely happy. “You’re always welcome wherever we are, sweetheart,” Jackson told her warmly, kissing his mating mark gently, loving the soft whimper of arousal that escaped her. “Especially if you bring us something to eat,” he teased, reaching over her shoulder to steal a still warm cookie from the plate she was trying to balance as the men embraced her. Laurie laughed and turned to place the plate on Jace’s desk. “So you only want me to feed your stomachs,” she accused, her eyes sparkling with humor. She reached up and took Jace’s face in her hands to pull him toward her. Gently passing her lips over his, she leaned into him and wrapped her leg around his thigh, bringing the kiss to a deep level of passion immediately, smiling as Jace opened his mouth to her without hesitation. Their tongues met, and she sucked on his as she moaned into his mouth. Her intent was to make him lose himself with her forwardness, but he quickly turned the tables on her and pulled her toward him in a whirlwind of want and need. She leaned back from the kiss and smiled lazily at Jace. Hugging him tightly then stepping out of his embrace, she turned to give her attention to

152

Lynnette Bernard

Jackson. Wrapping her arms around him, she kissed him lightly just as she had done with Jace then quickly ramped up to the all-consuming passion that was so easy to reach with both of these wonderful men. When she pulled away, the three of them were breathing heavily. “That’s kiss number two,” she whispered, pulling herself away from both men, opening the door of their office and exiting quickly, although a little unsteadily. Both men watched her walk away, the feminine sway of her backside drawing their attention. “Damn!” Jace whispered as he watched her sweet bottom move seductively. “She has no idea how sexy she is.” Jackson groaned and reached down to adjust his erection. This was going to be a long day. **** An hour later, Laurie gently knocked on their office door. Before she could even lower her hand, the door was pulled open, and she found herself being pulled roughly into Jace’s embrace while Jackson closed and locked the door behind them. A squeak of surprise escaped her before she laughed out loud at the joy she felt as the two men surrounded her. “Hands to yourselves, guys,” she warned them, pushing them away from her with determination. “Okay, baby,” Jackson answered, the humor evident in his voice. “We’ll play your way for now.” He leaned forward and kissed her forehead gently, unable to stop himself. “But in five minutes, all bets are off,” he warned her. “I’m giving her two,” Jace interrupted, the growl in his voice filled with need. Laurie smiled and reached out to caress both men’s denim-covered erections, pulling gasps of pleasure from both of them. “I only need one,” she whispered, kneeling down between them, quickly unbuckling their belts, and unbuttoning and unzipping their jeans to release their fully engorged cocks. “Laurie, baby,” Jace groaned, reaching out to grab for Jackson’s shoulder to steady himself as she took him into her mouth, sucking deeply and bringing him to the back of her throat.

Laurie’s Loves

153

Jackson moaned beside him as she stroked him with sure, strong pulls. She pulled back from Jace, allowing him to slip free from her mouth with a pop then grabbed his length to stroke him firmly. He watched as she turned and took Jackson into her mouth, swallowing him down in one smooth move. Jackson’s moan of approval filled the office. Jace knew exactly how he felt. The immediate pleasure Laurie gave them was unselfish and passionate. When she was through with whatever she planned to do with them, he was going to throw her over his shoulder and take her up to their room and love her until she screamed their names in ecstasy. Laurie hummed, reaching up to capture Jackson’s heavy sac in her hand to pull down lightly as she swallowed. Jackson’s moan made her smile. He held her head tenderly as he kept her still against him, his cock thickening and pulsing as she pushed him over the edge. His seed burst from him, erupting in great spurts. Laurie held his hip to keep him close as she swallowed every bit of his release. His hand stroked her hair gently as he fought to catch his breath. She gently licked and sucked his cock, amazed that he was still hard, placing a gentle kiss at the tip before looking up to smile at him. That’s kiss number three, honey. Her voice was raspy with passion as she spoke in their minds. Turning, she focused on Jace and winked at him as she opened her mouth to take his glistening cock into her mouth. She loved on him passionately, fondling his balls tenderly as she pulled him to the edge of his orgasm, then, with one last strong pull of her mouth, pulled him over into ecstasy. He howled her name as he spilled his seed into her mouth, loving that she swallowed every drop and then licked him tenderly as he came down from his release, kissing the tip gently before smiling up at him. Both men were suddenly on their knees beside her, wrapping their arms around her and kissing her repeatedly. The taste of their seed on her mouth made the intimacy more profound, and Laurie couldn’t stop smiling at the two men who looked down on her with absolute adoration on their faces. “I have kisses four, five, and six planned for when Julia and I come back from shopping,” she told them quietly, smiling up at them with open desire. “Baby, you’re going to kill us,” Jace told her, laughing as he leaned down to kiss her lips gently before standing and pulling her up to stand before him.

154

Lynnette Bernard

Laurie smiled as he reached up and gently caressed her cheek with the back of his hand. Her breath caught in her throat as he lowered his hand to tenderly rub against her breast with the back of his fingers, smiling when she moaned with pleasure as her nipple pebbled beneath his ministrations. I’m going to take your clothes off and bury my cock deep inside you, honey. His voice was deep with passion as he spoke to her in her mind. Jackson is going to hold you up so you don’t hurt yourself, and then I’m going to return the favor for him so he can feel the pure pleasure of being gripped by your sweet pussy. Jackson’s growl of approval sounded behind her as he stepped forward and helped Jace remove her clothing, one article at a time, taking the time to kiss and suckle every bit of her flesh as it was revealed. By the time she was totally naked, standing before them, she was shaking with desire. “Oh, God,” Laurie moaned, “I can’t wait anymore.” She reached out and held both men to her, loving the feel of their hard bodies pressed against her. Jackson lifted her carefully as Jace swept the contents off the top of his desk, reaching out to take Laurie’s legs and position her exactly as he wanted her. Jackson’s hands cupped her breasts, kneading them gently and pinching her nipples lightly. Her moan was met by his growl as he leaned down and nuzzled her neck, licking at his mating mark as his excitement grew. Jace looked at Laurie and leaned toward her to capture her lips, unable to hold back the passion he was feeling for their mate. She leaned toward him, holding onto his shoulders as he pulled her hips toward his waiting erection. In one smooth move, he pushed inside her, loving the clenching of her passage around him. She was wet and ready for him. When she reached down to pull his at hips so he was able to bury himself deeper inside of her, he lost any measure of control that he had on himself. He thrust into her with unbridled lust, unable to stop himself from slamming into her and taking her hard. “Laurie, please tell me this is okay,” he gasped as his body gave in to the deep need to claim her this way. “Harder,” she moaned, reaching up to tangle her fingers in his soft black hair and pulling him toward her to devour his mouth.

Laurie’s Loves

155

Jackson reached down, rubbing his finger into her wet heat to gather her crème, then slid his finger up to rub roughly against her clit. Jace’s roar of release matched Laurie’s whimper as she found her own completion. Jace leaned forward and bit into her shoulder where his mark already graced her beautiful skin, growling as his shaft knotted inside her, pulsed, and released his life seed deeply into her waiting body. Sucking her blood into his mouth, he tasted the difference in her and smiled against her soft skin, loving the reason for the change and knowing that Laurie was not aware of it yet. Laurie pet his back as he removed his canines from her shoulder and licked the bite closed. Small tremors passed through her as she felt the knot rub against the most sensitive spot inside her channel as pulse after pulse of his release was expelled deep within her. At that moment, that connection of his joining, she knew a sense of completion that she had only found with these wonderful, caring men. Holding her tenderly as their bodies calmed, Jace lightly kissed Laurie’s forehead and leaned his cheek against the side of her face. The sense of peace he felt was strong. Waiting for the mating knot to recede was not a hardship at all. It allowed him to hold the woman who meant the world to him. Once the knot released, Jace pulled out gently, careful to not hurt their mate. Leaning forward, he kissed her lips lightly, gathering her in his arms once again and holding her against his chest tenderly. He had no words. Instead, he opened his heart to her so she could feel the utter joy and contentment he was feeling because of her. At Laurie’s sigh, he knew that she had felt his emotions. Pulling back, he looked down at her, smiling at her totally disheveled and well-loved appearance. “Come here, sweetheart,” he whispered, taking her in his arms and gently turning her so that she rested against his chest and she faced Jackson. She opened her eyes slowly and smiled at Jackson. He looked at her with complete devotion, his desire for her obvious. His eyes glowed golden, and his cock pulsed as it lay heavily on the top of the desk. She saw his hesitation and couldn’t deny she wanted him just as deeply as she wanted Jace.

156

Lynnette Bernard

“Jackson, I need you,” she whispered, reaching out to take him into her embrace. “Baby,” Jackson moaned as his mouth covered hers, devouring her. She reached down and guided him into her body, moaning with pleasure as his length was buried deep inside her. He began to move, slowly at first, quickly picking up speed and strength. She leaned back against Jace, knowing he would hold her and make sure she wouldn’t fall. Jace’s left hand covered her belly as his right hand reached down to gently stroke her already sensitive nub. He smiled as Laurie moaned between the two of them. “Don’t hold back, Jackson. I won’t break,” she whispered, gasping as she reached out to pull him toward her chest. Jackson’s hips thrust forward, slamming his cock deep into Laurie’s depths. His mouth sought her shoulder, his canines descended, and he quickly bit into their mate’s neck where his mating mark already declared her as his. Sucking deeply, he drew her blood into his mouth, loving the taste of her. He smiled against her soft skin as she screamed her release against his neck. She held him tightly to her as his cock knotted and locked inside her as he emptied another load of seed into her waiting womb. Moments passed, but neither moved, each content to hold the other in their arms. Jace smiled against the back of Laurie’s neck, kissing it lightly as he nuzzled against her. He would never get enough of her. Jackson slowly withdrew from her warmth once the mating knot released and moved away from the desk, carefully pulling Laurie with him. Making sure that she was steady on her feet, he leaned down to pick up her bra and reached out to gently put it back on her. He hooked it carefully, rubbing his thumbs across her still-sensitive nipples before pulling away and smiling down at her. The soft moan that escaped her made his heart light with happiness at her total acceptance of his touch. Jace was beside them quickly, helping Laurie put her shirt back on, kissing her lips lightly as he reached down to pick up her underwear and pants. Stepping back, he couldn’t prevent the smile that came to his face as she stood before him, naked from the waist down. “Why are you smiling?” Laurie asked him shyly. “Our mate looks good naked, doesn’t she, Jackson?” Jace teased, reaching out to cover her mound gently.

Laurie’s Loves

157

Jackson smiled and moved toward them, reaching out to touch Laurie’s face gently. “She does, Jace,” he said quietly. “I love seeing her naked.” He winked at her. “I especially love seeing our seed dripping down her legs.” Laurie gasped and grabbed her panties from Jace’s hand. She wiped at her legs carefully. “You guys certainly have an abundance of seed,” she said quietly, quickly pulling on her underwear and jeans. Looking up, she froze at the sight of the two men as they stared down at her. Both men stepped toward her slowly, reaching out to enfold her in their embrace. “Only for you, Laurie,” Jace whispered, closing his eyes as he tenderly kissed her forehead. Jackson leaned his face against her cheek. “For the rest of our lives,” he whispered against her ear. Laurie couldn’t have spoken at that moment if her life had depended upon it. She could feel their sincerity, and it scared her. She didn’t know what to feel about their level of devotion. Other than her two children and her best friend Nikki, she had never had anyone care about her in her entire life, and she didn’t know how to react. Even though she still had doubts and worriedly questioned her worth, she determinedly pushed away her fears. She desperately wanted the future these men offered her, and she was going to hang on to them with all the strength she could muster. “I think I need to go clean up and change,” she whispered, stepping out of their embrace to look up at them. “I think you should stay exactly as you are,” Jackson teased. “I want everyone to smell our scent on you.” Laurie blushed and giggled. Honest to God giggled! What was wrong with her? She was turning into a giddy teenager! Jace smiled at her happiness. He kissed her quickly and stepped back, reaching down to take his cock in hand. Laurie laughed and reached out to push both his and Jackson’s hands away as they tried to tuck themselves away. “Mine,” she told them, gently taking Jace’s softened cock in her hand and carefully placing him back into his jeans and zipping him closed with utmost care. Gently cupping his sensitive cock one last time, she smiled up at him as she watched his eyes close with pure pleasure and contentment. Turning to Jackson, she repeated the process then stepped back and smiled shyly.

158

Lynnette Bernard

“Now you’re shy?” Jackson laughed, reaching out to tap her nose affectionately. Laurie couldn’t stop the blush that crossed her face. “I just came to say good-bye before you distracted me,” she told them, ignoring Jackson’s comment. “Julia and I are meeting my friend Nikki at the mall.” “Alexander and Butler will be going with you,” Jace told her seriously, reaching out to tuck her soft hair behind her ear. “Why?” Laurie asked, confused by his switch to alpha mode. “If Jackson and I can’t be with you, you will have our lieutenants with you,” he told her seriously, his tone allowing no discussion. “We will never take a chance with your safety, Laurie.” Laurie looked to Jackson for support but saw the same hardened expression on his face. “This is not up for debate, honey,” he told her softly. “Now that you’re the female alpha of our pack, our queen, you’re open to the dangers of anyone who would try to hurt you or our pack.” “I’m the what?” Laurie nearly squeaked. “I can’t be an alpha, and I’m certainly no queen.” Jace stepped forward and gently reached out to take her into his arms. Jackson stepped up behind her and plastered his body against her back. “Baby, you are,” Jace told her softly. “Don’t think you aren’t. You have a fierceness in you that shows us you would protect our people, our children, me, or Jackson,” he explained carefully. “It’s the job of the alpha female to keep our pack members focused and our families close. You lead by example, honey. And the love you show our people let them know that they’re important members of our pack.” “We couldn’t have hoped for a better alpha female,” Jackson told her with complete sincerity, kissing her neck gently before licking his mating mark, making her shiver with desire. “Alexander and Butler will go with you and Julia,” Jace told her with finality. Laurie looked up at him and smiled. “Yes, Alpha,” she told him quietly, not missing the way his eyes flashed golden at her words. “I’m not playing, Laurie,” he warned her seriously, taking her neck in his large hand and pulling her toward him so he could impress upon her the need they had to keep her safe.

Laurie’s Loves

159

Jackson reached around Laurie and rested his hand on Jace’s shoulder, needing to calm his alpha just as much as he needed to calm himself. Just thinking about Laurie getting hurt or taken from them caused his heart to beat rapidly in his chest. “Please, baby,” Jackson whispered against the side of her face. “We need you to be safe.” Laurie closed her eyes, her knees nearly buckling at the wave of emotion the men sent to her through their bond. Their caring and concern surrounded her. “Okay,” she told them, sighing, finally giving in. “But they are not going into the store we want to go into. They can wait outside the entrance.” “What store do you want to go into?” Jackson asked, smiling down at her. “Never mind,” Laurie told him, pulling away from them both and walking over to the office door. She opened it quickly then turned back to face them both and smiled. “But when I get back and wear what I want to buy, you’ll get kiss number four.” She turned and walked out of the office, quietly closing the door behind her. “Hell,” Jace whispered. “I’m hard again,” Jackson groaned.

160

Lynnette Bernard

Chapter 15 “Laurie, that color is perfect for you,” Julia told her, smiling at the sensuality of the lilac colored negligee that she was trying on. “It’s beautiful.” Laurie smiled at her reflection in the dressing room mirror. She looked up to see both Julia and her friend Nikki looking at her with big smiles on their faces. “I can’t wait to meet these two hotties that have you so in love,” Nikki told her, laughing with pure joy at the happiness of her good friend. “Who said I’m in love?” Laurie turned to face her best friend, stunned that she had called her on her feelings so quickly. “Oh, come on!” Nikki snorted. “Look who you’re talking to, honey. I’ve known you forever. You’ve never been so happy. Certainly not with Pigface.” Laurie couldn’t stop the laughter that burst from her. Nikki had been her best friend since fifth grade. Nikki knew everything about her marriage and the abuse she had been subjected to. How many times had Nikki physically put herself between Laurie and her ex? More times than she cared to think about. Nikki, above anyone else, knew the depths to which her ex had hurt her physically, emotionally, and verbally. Despite Nikki’s innocent and fun-loving demeanor, she was a powerhouse. She was fiercely protective of Laurie and her children. Being a nurse, she was often the one to take care of the injuries Laurie had sustained at the hands of her abusive ex. She had also protected Laurie’s babies from the time they were born and was a second mother to them. They loved her to death, as did Laurie. “Nikki, I never said I loved them,” Laurie protested again halfheartedly. “Right,” Nikki answered quickly, waving her hand at her friend, dismissing her words. “Honey, you and I both know you would never be

Laurie’s Loves

161

intimate with those men without truly caring about them.” She crossed her arms across her chest and stared at her friend. “Go ahead and tell me otherwise.” “Tell me, too,” Julia chimed in, taking the exact same stance. Laurie looked at her two friends and knew she wouldn’t be able to deny her feelings to either woman. Both looked ready to take her on. She couldn’t help but smile at the united front that the pair made. Talk about an odd couple. Julia looked soft and sweet, her soft brown hair pulled up into a ponytail, her golden brown eyes showing caring and concern as she looked at Laurie. She wore a soft pink maternity dress that hugged her form just enough to accent her belly, swollen with the new life that she carried. She looked like the most contented and perfect mother. Looking at her brought tears to Laurie’s eyes. Nikki, on the other hand, was dressed in tight, black jeans and a red baby-doll shirt, accentuating her full curves. Her short black hair was styled in layers to brush her shoulders, and her blue eyes flashed with defiance as she dared Laurie to try and lie to her. Despite her tough attitude, Laurie knew the sensitivity that Nikki possessed. She had never met a kinder or more caring person. She also knew the deep loneliness Nikki felt. She worked so many hours at the hospital, she had no time to date. But Laurie knew that was just an excuse for Nikki. She knew her friend was afraid to put herself out there and meet anyone new. Her own bad experience with an ex-husband had made her determined not to give any other man control over her again. Nikki had kept her pain to herself, but Laurie knew it was deep and had hurt her beyond the ability to recover from it. “Okay, I give,” Laurie admitted. “You’re right. I do care about them very much.” “Aha!” Nikki shouted. “Quiet!” Laurie hissed. “Don’t go advertising it to the world.” Nikki leaned in and whispered so that only Laurie and Julia could hear her. “Sorry, honey. I’m happy for you. You deserve to be loved.” Laurie smiled. “You do, too, Nikki,” she said finally. Nikki’s face registered a brief moment of sadness before she turned to face Julia. “Let’s get the same negligee in another color. And we need to pick out some toys, too.” She reached out and took Laurie by the shoulders

162

Lynnette Bernard

and turned her to face the mirror. “Take that off so we can pay for it. Do you want anything else?” “Whatever you think, Nikki,” Laurie told her honestly. “I really wouldn’t know what else to pick. It’s been so long since I’ve bought anything pretty for myself.” Nikki’s eyes softened as she looked at her dear friend. She, more than anyone else, knew exactly how Laurie had lived for the past fifteen years, scraping by to support herself and her children. In all those years, Laurie had refused any monetary help from Nikki. She was a proud woman who had been determined to make it on her own. Nikki had only been allowed to splurge on gifts, clothes, and food for the children but had never been allowed to help Laurie. Nikki also knew how Laurie had been abused during her marriage and the toll it had taken on her self-esteem. Even though Laurie’s marriage had only lasted five years, it had nearly destroyed her. And the fact that her exhusband continued to torment her and threaten her made it so that Laurie was never allowed to feel safe or confident in herself. Nikki was determined to make sure that Laurie had some happiness and confidence now that she had found not one but two men who seemed to have taken her within their hearts. “Leave it to me,” Nikki told her, winking. “I’m sure your men will thank me later.” Laurie blushed and looked away, unable to say a word. She closed the dressing room door, looking at her reflection once again, surprised at the sight before her. She couldn’t prevent the happiness that filled her. She actually felt beautiful, and she knew that it was because of the two men who waited for her back at the ranch. Baby, you look beautiful. Jace’s husky voice caressed her mind, sending shockwaves of passion through her body. Laurie jumped at the sound of his voice. “How can you see me?” she spoke softly out loud, her heart pounding at the thought of Jace seeing her dressed so scantily. We can see your reflection in the mirror through your thoughts, sweetheart, Jackson’s voice explained, sending his own caress through their link.

Laurie’s Loves

163

Laurie slapped her hands over her eyes to hide herself from their link. “Please don’t look,” she begged. “I wanted to surprise you later.” Baby, every moment you’re with us surprises us. Jace’s voice was filled with emotion. We still can’t believe that we were lucky enough to find you. Laurie pulled her hands from her eyes and looked at herself in the mirror, not seeing her own reflection but the image of her men holding her between them, kissing her temples and hugging her tightly. She closed her eyes and pictured herself kissing each of them, knowing she was successful in projecting her thoughts when she heard both men groan in her head. “Tell me how to stop you from seeing what I’m seeing. I don’t want you to see any more of my secrets,” she whispered. Picture yourself in that white light of protection again, baby. Jackson’s calm voice talked her through it. Laurie did as he instructed. That’s good, sweetheart. Now just open that small window when you want us to see things. But please don’t cut us off completely. We need to feel your presence so we can be sure you’re safe and happy. Jace’s strong voice touched her heart. Opening the small window she pictured within the white light that surrounded her, Laurie projected every bit of caring she had for them. She could feel their happiness and contentment immediately, and she vowed to always show them just how much they meant to her. Turning toward the bench seat in the dressing room, she removed the negligee and reached for her shirt, putting it on quickly. She opened the door just a crack and handed the soft creation to Julia and smiled as she saw Julia walk over to Nikki and hand it to her before leaning forward and whispering to her. Laurie smiled at the way the two women were already bonding and was thankful that her friends liked each other. Picking up her jeans and pulling them on quickly, she pulled the door open and saw that Nikki was at the counter paying for the items while Julia stood patiently near the dressingroom door. “Julia, may I talk to you for a minute?” Julia smiled and walked into the cubicle to sit on the padded bench that lined the far side of the changing room. She sighed contentedly as she leaned back and relaxed against the wall. “Sure,” she told her, laughing. “As

164

Lynnette Bernard

long as I can rest my feet for a few minutes.” She rubbed her belly, closing her eyes at the feeling of her baby moving beneath her hand. “Do you ever worry that you can’t give enough attention to both of your mates?” Laurie asked worriedly. Julia opened her eyes and turned to face Laurie with a gentleness that calmed her immediately. “You don’t have to worry about that, Laurie,” she told her honestly. “I can see that you love both Jace and Jackson. They can see it, too. Even more important, they can feel it through the bond that you share. They’re not going to be keeping score that you’re spending too much time with one of them and not the other. Triad mates fall into a comfortable relationship almost immediately. Affection is given freely and often to each other. It’s natural and not something you have to try to accomplish. It just is.” “Really?” Laurie asked, her worry evident in her tone. “I don’t want to hurt either one of them by showing affection to the other.” “That won’t happen, Laurie,” Julia assured her. “You should know that there are several packs in the area that have triad relationships. Our pack has had triad mates for as long as we have been in existence. What we feel for each member of our triad is valued by all of the members. We find joy in the love we have for each other. And when we’re lucky enough to find ourselves expecting a child, that love increases to include that new life.” “Does either man worry that you will love the father of your child more than the other man?” Laurie asked quietly. “Both men are the fathers of my children, Laurie,” Julia explained, smiling. “When a triad creates a baby, both fathers contribute sperm that fertilizes the egg. The baby carries the DNA of both men.” “How is that possible?” Laurie asked, confused. “That goes against basic human biology.” Julia laughed quietly. “You just answered your own question.” Laurie looked at her in confusion. “I did?” “We’re not human, Laurie,” Julia explained patiently, reaching out to touch her hand gently. “We are wolf. And we are triad mates. The Fates have given us the gift to love our mates without worry. The children that we produce are the product of the love the three mates have for each other. When a triad is formed, the souls of the three entwine, and their bodies become one.”

Laurie’s Loves

165

Julia leaned forward to whisper so that only Laurie could hear her. “Our doctors have researched why this happens. They’ve found that when a male becomes part of a bonded triad, he and the other male in the triad partnership together contribute half of the DNA for the baby while the woman contributes the other half of the DNA. Doc Barrett explained it to me as nature’s way of adapting and changing to accommodate our history as triad mates.” “That’s amazing,” Laurie whispered. She turned to face Julia and smiled. “And wonderful.” “Yes, it is,” Julia agreed. Nikki came up to the doorway, several bags hanging from her hands, smiling as if she were the cat who ate the canary. “You guys ready to go?” she asked, her blue eyes twinkling with mischief. “What have you done, Nikki?” Laurie asked her warily, knowing her friend was up to something. “Nothing much,” Nikki told her, laughing. “Be sure to open all the bags when you get home. I put in some toys I think you’ll be needing.” “What kind of toys?” Laurie’s voice was wary as she looked at her friend. Knowing Nikki, Laurie knew immediately that she was in for a surprise she wasn’t sure she would be able to handle. “Oh, just some different sized butt plugs,” Nikki told her innocently. “You’ll need them to prepare yourself for some really hot nights of sex.” Julia burst out laughing while Laurie blushed profusely. Laurie watched as Nikki walked away, unable to speak. “She’s right, you know,” Julia offered as she slowly stood and turned to face Laurie. “You’ll need the plugs. Just wait until Jace and Jackson see you wearing one. I’ll bet the whole ranch will hear their howls.” She chuckled as she walked away, leaving Laurie with instant visions of how her sex life was going to change. And she had to admit to herself that she was looking forward to learning every bit of it with Jace and Jackson. Despite her embarrassment, she could feel her body tensing in anticipation of the love she would share with the two men. Love. Did she love them? Despite her fears, she couldn’t help but admit that she already did love them. More than she had ever thought was possible.

166

Lynnette Bernard

Standing, she made her way over to the two women who were definitely her partners in crime today. Nikki smiled at her and took her arm as she led her to the front of the store. “I made sure to get several bottles of lube, too,” she whispered, making Laurie blush and Julia laugh out loud. “Laurie, I really like your friend,” Julia said, wiping the tears of laughter from her eyes. “Well, what have we here?” a deep voice bellowed, making Laurie freeze in fear. Her mind screamed out in panic, and she could feel the immediate response from Jace and Jackson. Laurie! Jace’s voice was filled with fear. Sweetheart, what’s happened? Jackson called out to her. She felt their warmth surround her immediately, but she couldn’t answer or stop the immediate, frantic pounding of fear in her heart. She couldn’t control her thoughts and knew everything she was feeling and seeing was bleeding through to both men. She didn’t have it in her to be in control of anything at the moment. She looked up and saw before her the one person that she never wanted to see again. Her ex-husband. Patrick looked exactly the same. He was still well-dressed. His tailored, black pants and red button-down shirt spoke of the money he was always willing to spend on himself. His short blond hair was styled to perfection, and his green eyes were as cold as ever as he looked down at the three women. “What could you possibly want to buy in that store, Laurie?” he practically sneered at her. “There’s nothing in this world that would make you look appealing. Why would you even bother trying?” She couldn’t prevent the attack of pure panic that raced through her. Her fear sent a jolt of terror through her link to Jace and Jackson that she was unable to shield from them. Patrick’s vicious sneer was coldly familiar, sending Laurie back to a terrifying place that she had lived during the years of her marriage as well as despaired to for the last fifteen years. Who is that, baby? Jackson’s voice held a panic that Laurie was feeling herself. The sound of Jace’s growl filled her head as his emotions met hers. Laurie, are you safe?

Laurie’s Loves

167

Their deep voices echoed through her, but she was frozen by old feelings of worthlessness and inadequacy. She couldn’t prevent the whimper that escaped her and was transmitted back to them through their link. Patrick reached out and tugged at the bag from the boutique. “Don’t you know that dressing up a sack of shit doesn’t change anything? It’s still a sack of shit.” “Back off, Pigface!” Nikki stepped forward to put herself between Laurie and her ex. Nikki was not about to allow Patrick to show his violence toward Laurie again. Their divorce had never stopped him from continuing his abuse. She had seen his cruelty over the years and had seen how he had often hurt Laurie’s children as well as her friends in order to keep Laurie under his control. What happened next happened so quickly, Laurie barely had time to react. Patrick reached up and pushed his hand against Nikki’s chest, shoving her hard. She fell backward, slamming against the store wall and falling to the ground, unconscious. Laurie reached out to grab for Nikki, but he wrenched her wrist back and squeezed with all his strength, making her cry out in pain. Julia reached out to try to pull his hand from Laurie’s wrist, but he turned and backhanded her, connecting with the right side of her face. She staggered and fell forward, going down to her knees. Fierce growls filled the air as Alexander and Butler burst forward and pulled Laurie’s ex away from the women and slammed him down onto the ground. Alexander held him by his throat, squeezing tightly, uncaring that they had a crowd gathering around them. Butler rushed to Nikki and gently pulled her into his arms, lifting her to cradle her against his body as he turned to face Laurie and Julia. Reaching down, he helped Laurie and Julia stand and cuddled them against his massive chest. Julia reached out to pull Laurie into the safety of her arms as Butler held them both. Laurie held her wrist against her body as tears fell down her face. “I’m so sorry,” she whispered, reaching out to touch both of her friends, her concern for them outweighing the concern for herself. “I am the one who should apologize, my Alpha,” Butler told her quietly, closing his eyes as he fought to control his anger. “We should have been

168

Lynnette Bernard

closer. That man would not have been able to touch any of you if we had done our job.” Laurie looked up at Butler and saw the raw pain that filled his face. “No, Butler,” she told him, her voice strong. “You’re not to accept blame for what my ex-husband did,” she said, indicating the man who lay pinned by Alexander’s hand. “It was my fault for telling you to stand against that far wall while we shopped.” She waved her hand, indicating the wall of stores across the mall walkway that faced them. She pushed herself out of Butler’s embrace and walked over to look down at Patrick. His face was decidedly purple as Alexander’s massive hand squeezed his neck without mercy. Patrick was splayed out on the mall floor, his hands ineffectively pulling at Alexander’s grip. She stood between his sprawled legs, stepping close to his crotch. To the utter amazement of Alexander, Butler, and Julia, Laurie lifted her sneaker-clad foot and placed it firmly on her ex-husband’s genitals, pushing down just enough to get his attention. At his choked groan of pain, Alexander looked up at her, unsure what to do. “My Alpha?” he questioned. “Let him go, Alexander,” she told him quietly. “I cannot risk your safety, Alpha,” Alexander responded quickly, his face a mirror of concern. Laurie looked down at him with a hardness that surprised even her. “Let him go. Now.” Her voice allowed for nothing but his complete compliance to her order. Very slowly, he removed his hand from her ex-husband’s throat, careful to remain alert in case he had to prevent another attack on the women. Patrick took in great gulps of air as he pulled at his throat. He looked up at Laurie with murderous intent in his eyes. “I’ll kill you,” he croaked. “And then I’ll kill the kids and your friends.” Laurie’s foot increased the pressure on his groin, pulling another groan of pain from him and making him freeze his movements. “No, Patrick. You won’t,” Laurie told him, a deadly calm coming over her as she spoke. She didn’t hesitate. She didn’t blink. She stared at him with such anger that, for the first time in her life, the fear that usually paralyzed her left her and was replaced by a hardness that promised retribution.

Laurie’s Loves

169

“These people belong to me,” she told him calmly, indicating the people who stood behind her. “You won’t go near them. And you won’t go near the kids,” she told him, her voice controlled and soft, increasing the pressure on his genitals as she spoke. “Because if you go anywhere near the people I love, I’ll cut off your balls and feed them to you.” She pressed down with her foot to emphasize her words. Patrick’s groan of pain satisfied the need in her to show him that she meant exactly what she said. No one was going to hurt the people who belonged to her. She looked at Alexander and nodded to him. “Let’s go home,” she told him quietly. He nodded and stood, taking her arm and pulling her back away from Patrick. He was careful to put his body between Laurie and her ex-husband. He wasn’t taking any chances that the man would reach out and grab their queen. He turned and gently pushed her toward Butler, who still cradled an unconscious Nikki in his arms and a stunned Julia against his side. “Take them to the truck,” he told his triad partner, reaching up to touch Julia’s bruised cheek, his jaw clenching in controlled anger. Turning to Nikki, he gently brushed her hair off her forehead, worry overwhelming him. He looked up at Butler and saw the same concern mirrored on his triad partner’s face. “Call Jace and let him know what happened. I’ll call Clayton and wait for him and Hunter. I’ll be out shortly.” Butler nodded, looking at Alexander, both their eyes flashing golden as their wolves fought to get out. Julia reached out and took Laurie’s hand in hers, pulling her toward them as they turned and walked away. Laurie walked silently beside them, looking at her injured friends as they walked. She felt a sickness deep in her stomach as she saw the pain that they were experiencing because of her. She was especially worried about Nikki, who was still unconscious in Butler’s arms. Alexander turned to face the man who was still lying on the floor. He walked over to squat down beside him. He faced the poor excuse of a man, his hands resting against his massive thighs. Patrick tried to scuttle away, but Alexander stopped him with one large hand on his shoulder. Taking out his cell phone, Alexander pushed speed dial for the local police department. He watched Patrick silently as he waited for the connection. “Clayton, it’s Alexander,” he said quietly as the phone was answered. “We have a situation at the mall. An attack was made on our

170

Lynnette Bernard

queen and two of our females.” He hesitated, listening to the officer’s response. “Thanks, Clay. Make it fast. All of the females have been injured and need medical attention.” Ending the connection, he put the phone back into the holder that was clipped to his belt. He looked down at the man who still lay before him. It took every bit of control to hold back his need to destroy this man. “Listen to me,” Alexander spoke softly. His eyes flashed golden as his wolf pushed forward, fighting for release. “Laurie is much more forgiving than I am.” Patrick sneered at the mention of her name, and Alexander’s hold on his shoulder tightened, making Patrick wince in pain. He carefully schooled his features and looked up at the massive man before him. “You have threatened Laurie, her children, and the members of my family,” Alexander’s deep and deceptively calm voice continued. “If I catch you within one hundred miles of us, if I catch you even thinking about coming anywhere near them, I will rip you apart in so many pieces no one will be able to identify your remains.” He looked down at the man whose false bravado quickly dissipated. “But first I’ll make you scream in pain for several hours before I put you out of your misery.” The growl that emerged from his throat was deep and menacing. Alexander did nothing to mask the wolf any longer. Patrick’s eyes widened in fear. He nodded briefly and pushed away, knowing that he was able to do so only because the giant before him allowed it. Alexander stood and waited while Patrick slowly rose to his feet. He brushed off his black pants and straightened his shirt, looking at Alexander with contempt. Taking a step back, he ran his hand through his hair and faced him silently. “Remember my warning,” Alexander told him quietly. “I will not hesitate to protect what is mine.” Alexander waited, watching as he saw the man before him process his thoughts. His face showed his hatred, but he didn’t utter another word. Smart man. Only a few minutes passed, although it felt like an eternity to Alexander, before Officers Clayton Forest and Hunter Stewart showed up. Being part of Jace’s pack, they knew the need for discretion in this situation, but the men were determined to book Patrick for assault of the three women and take

Laurie’s Loves

171

him into custody. They took statements from the store manager and several witnesses, making sure they had enough evidence to keep Patrick in custody overnight, guaranteeing the safety of the women for the time being. “We’ll come by the compound to speak to the women,” Clayton told Alexander as Hunter took Patrick away in cuffs. “Go on and get the women home so Doc can see to them.” Alexander nodded, placing his hand on the fellow pack member’s shoulder in relief. “Thanks, Clay,” he told him sincerely. Alexander’s powerful steps ate up the distance between the store and the parking lot where his black truck was parked. When he arrived and opened the door, he saw that Butler was holding a still unconscious Nikki in his arms. Laurie sat next to him, holding Nikki’s hand with one of hers, while the other held Julia’s hand as she sat in the front passenger seat. Alexander looked at Butler, seeing the strain on his face. “We need to get home fast, Alex,” Butler told him quietly, looking down at the unconscious woman in his arms, then turning to face Laurie and nodding slightly. Alexander followed his triad partner’s line of vision and saw the vacant look on Laurie’s face. She was probably in shock. He looked down at Nikki, and his chest hurt as he saw her pale complexion. Looking at Julia, he was relieved to see her calm and quiet, even though the right side of her face was bruised and already swelling. He swore to himself as he carefully closed the door and walked around the front of his truck to open the driver’s door and step up inside. He clicked his seat belt in place and started the engine, putting it in drive and carefully pulling out of the mall parking lot and entering the highway to get them home, wishing the entire way that he had killed the bastard who had hurt these women.

172

Lynnette Bernard

Chapter 16 Jace and Jackson were standing on the front porch of the private compound. After what seemed like hours had passed, they finally saw Alexander’s black truck pull into the driveway and head toward them. They quickly walked down the front porch stairs and went to the truck as it pulled to a stop. Jace pulled open the rear door and reached in to take Laurie into his arms, hugging her tightly to his body. Jackson was immediately by his side, encompassing them both in his arms. Neither man had felt such fear in their lives as when they had seen the attack through Laurie’s eyes and had felt her terror. Laurie remained still and stiff in their arms. Jace pulled back and looked down at her, fear gripping at him as he saw her vacant look. “Are you all right, honey?” he whispered, kissing her forehead gently. Laurie nodded and pushed out of their arms, turning to walk around the truck to open the front passenger door to help Julia step out. She held her gently to steady her, releasing her as Adrian and Colin rushed to their mate immediately, engulfing her in their embrace and pulling her gently into their arms and holding her tightly. She couldn’t prevent the pain that ripped through her heart as she watched Julia’s husbands hold her tightly against them as they ran their hands over her body to assure themselves that she wasn’t injured. When they touched her face, still swollen from Patrick’s attack, Laurie felt a pain in her heart that her new friend had been hurt because of her. She stepped back as Alexander walked around the truck to open the rear door and take Nikki from Butler’s arms. He held Nikki gently, closing his eyes briefly as he fought to control the anger that filled him. “Let’s get everyone inside and see to our women,” Jackson spoke softly behind them, his worried gaze flitting from each woman then back to Jace.

Laurie’s Loves

173

He could feel his friend’s concern, fear, and anger overwhelming him, and he knew there was nothing he could do to stop it. He felt the exact same way. Alexander stopped at the bottom of the steps, holding his precious bundle as if she were made of glass. Nikki’s head lay trustingly against his chest. He watched silently as Butler hesitantly raised his large hand and tenderly touched Nikki’s head, unable to stop himself from petting her soft hair before looking up at Alexander with pain in his eyes. Alexander was sure his own eyes mirrored the same strong emotions that Butler was feeling. “Clay and Hunter said they’ll be coming by to take the women’s statements,” Alexander told Jace. His alpha followed him as he carefully made his way up the stairs, Butler following closely behind them. Jace nodded and looked to Jackson as he saw how Laurie had distanced herself from them. He could not feel her through their bond at all. He watched silently as Laurie followed Julia, Aidan, and Colin up the steps, ignoring the attempts that Jace and Jackson made to aid her. Martha was there waiting for them, taking in the situation, and knowing immediately what needed to be done. Alexander looked at his mother, his eyes filled with anguish. “Take her to your suite, and I’ll be up shortly. Doc is already on his way,” Martha told him quietly, her eyes filling with tears at the helplessness in her son’s eyes. “She’ll be all right, Alex,” she tried to soothe him. Alexander nodded, unable to speak. Butler led the way up the stairs to their suite on the third floor. Laurie followed them, displaying a calm that concerned all of them. Jace turned to Martha, knowing that the woman would make sure that she provided whatever Doc needed her to in order to help each of the injured women. He had other things on his mind right then. He was more than concerned. He and Jackson had seen the whole confrontation at the mall and had felt the fear that had paralyzed Laurie through their link with her. But that link was closed now. No matter what thoughts or feelings he or Jackson sent to her, nothing got through. They felt the isolation of the wall that she had put between them. I can’t feel her, Jackson.

174

Lynnette Bernard

I can’t either. Jackson’s voice was filled with the grief that he knew surrounded them both. Laurie, baby, please open yourself to us. Jace’s voice was calm, but the fear and longing he was feeling was obvious. Laurie was oblivious to their words. She walked up the stairs, following Alexander and Butler as they entered their suite. She knew that Jace and Jackson followed them, but she couldn’t focus on anything but her friend right then. Alexander laid Nikki in the middle of the huge bed, touching her face gently before reluctantly letting her go and stepping back. Butler reached forward and brushed her hair back from her face, caressing her cheek lightly before stepping back and standing silently beside the bed. Laurie walked to the opposite side of the bed and sat on its edge, facing her friend, reaching out to hold her hand. She sat silently, oblivious to anything or anyone but the woman who lay so pale and still before her. She could only look at the face of her friend who had once again put herself in harm’s way to protect her. Martha entered the room, with Doc Barrett following closely behind her. Alexander and Butler stepped back to allow the man to go to Nikki, watching silently as he examined her. Unable to stop themselves, Alexander and Butler growled as the doctor touched her. Doc looked at both men with raised eyebrows, smiling slightly as realization hit. “I need to touch her to examine her,” he explained patiently. “I will not harm your mate.” Butler nodded stiffly, reaching out to place a comforting hand on Alexander’s shoulder. Alexander finally nodded his agreement, knowing and understanding that the doctor had to touch Nikki in order to help her. But that didn’t make it any easier to accept. Despite Martha’s worry, she couldn’t help the feeling of elation at the thought that Alexander and Butler had found their triad mate. She smiled at them lovingly then turned to face her alpha and beta. “Julia has been looked at and has an icepack on her cheek,” she told them quietly. “She’s gone back to her cabin with Adrian and Colin.” Jace nodded, relieved that one of their women was doing well. He looked to his mate and felt his chest nearly caving in at the feeling of isolation.

Laurie’s Loves

175

“Julia will be fine,” Doc spoke up as he examined Nikki, gently feeling the bump on the back of her head. “She’ll be a little bruised and sore, but that should go away within a few hours.” He ignored the rest of them while he checked Nikki’s eyes with a small pen light. “I’m more concerned that this woman is still unconscious. How long has she been out?” “About twenty minutes,” Butler answered, his voice rough with emotion. “Well, if she doesn’t come around soon, I’m going to have you take her to the hospital. She has a concussion, and I don’t want to chance that this could be life threatening.” He stood then and looked across the bed to Laurie. Laurie’s gaze never left Nikki’s face. Walking around the front of the bed, Doc stood beside Laurie and looked her over from head to toe. “And what about you, Laurie?” he asked cautiously. “Have you been injured?” Laurie didn’t answer. She just shook her head and continued to stare at her friend. Her eyes were vacant, and she remained silent. “Check her right wrist,” Jace told Doc firmly. He remembered the vision of Laurie’s ex grabbing her and the pain that she transmitted to him through their link. “I’m fine,” Laurie finally spoke softly. “No, baby, you’re not,” Jackson told her soothingly. Doc hesitated a moment, then reached down and gently lifted Laurie’s right hand and turned it gently so he could examine it. There were dark purple bruises in the shape of fingers, surrounding her wrist. Laurie didn’t even blink as he gently flexed her wrist. “It’s not broken,” he said finally. “But you’re going to be pretty sore from these bruises. It’s good that you’ve already claimed her,” he spoke to Jace and Jackson. “That will help in her healing. I would suggest icing her wrist on and off for twenty minutes throughout the night. A compression bandage would help. I’ll leave one for you and check on you again in the morning.” Nikki’s moan brought their conversation to a halt. When she opened her eyes and looked up at Laurie, it was the catalyst that broke Laurie’s trance.

176

Lynnette Bernard

“Nikki,” she gasped, unable to stop the tears that finally fell free. “I’m so sorry.” She climbed up to lie beside her friend and held her gently in her arms. “Oh stop,” Nikki told her dismissively. “Don’t you dare blame yourself for what Pigface did,” she whispered against the side of Laurie’s face. She turned then and faced Alexander and Butler, smiling weakly at their concerned expressions. “I hope you guys kicked his ass.” Alexander laughed despite his worries, reaching out to touch her cheek gently. “We didn’t have a chance. Our queen took care of him.” Nikki’s gaze flew back to Laurie, causing her to groan in pain at the sudden movement. “Really?” she asked, stunned. She turned back and saw both Alexander and Butler nodding and smiling. Facing her friend, this time slowly so the room wouldn’t spin, she reached up and pulled at Laurie’s hair gently. “You go, girl.” Laurie smiled, unable to keep herself from enjoying her friend. “Nikki, I’m so sorry Patrick hurt you. I promise you, you will never have to protect me again.” Nikki looked at Laurie, her eyes squinting as she tried to understand what her friend was telling her. “I know that,” she said finally. “You have two hotties that can do that now.” She smiled and looked at the two men who stood beside the bed. “Jace and Jackson I presume?” Alexander and Butler both growled at her words. They did not like the fact that she had called their alpha and beta hotties. And, hell no, she was not going to touch them! She belonged to them. Jace took Nikki’s outstretched hand, shaking it quickly and allowing Jackson to do the same before they both stepped back and bowed to their lieutenants, respectfully acknowledging their claim on the woman. “We’ll leave you to rest,” Jace told her quietly. “Thank you for helping our mate. Come here, Laurie. Let’s leave Nikki to heal.” “I’m going to stay with her,” Laurie told him determinedly, her voice steady. “Someone does need to stay with her through the night,” Doc spoke up. “She should be woken up every hour to make sure she’s lucid. It’s common practice for concussions,” he explained quickly when he saw the panic on Alexander’s and Butler’s faces.

Laurie’s Loves

177

“We’ll be here with her,” Butler spoke up, looking down at the adorable woman he already had a strong connection with. “Hey, where am I?” Nikki asked groggily, realizing that she didn’t recognize the room. “You’re in our suite,” Alexander told her, his voice gruff with emotion. “You will stay here with us.” Nikki smiled and closed her eyes. “Okay,” she whispered as she settled back into the softness of the bed. “But don’t expect anything from me. I have a headache.” Both men laughed despite their worry. Looking at Laurie, Alexander was relieved to see her smile as she looked down at her friend. Laurie was quiet for a moment then turned to look up at them, her eyes wide with emotion. “Don’t hurt her, okay?” she whispered. “She’s been through a lot in her life. I don’t think she can handle any more pain.” Both men nodded and watched as Laurie got up from the bed and stood silently beside it, obviously trying to come to a decision. Her gaze went to Alexander and Butler and then back to her friend. “Laurie?” Nikki whispered, never opening her eyes. “What, honey?” Laurie asked, kneeling on the bed to lean closer to her friend. “Do you smell that?” Laurie hesitated, unable to find the words. “Smell what, Nikki?” she finally whispered, aware that the men in the room became instantly alert. “I don’t know,” Nikki answered, her voice soft and weak. “I’ve never smelled anything like it before, but it smells wonderful.” Laurie smiled and looked to Alexander and Butler, noting their wide grins at Nikki’s admission. She found herself relaxing at the thought that Nikki had finally found the two men who would love and cherish her for the rest of her life. “Yes, it does,” Laurie finally whispered. “Get some rest, honey. I’ll come back to check on you later.” She leaned forward and kissed her friend’s forehead, then stepped back, turned, and walked out of the room. Jace and Jackson reached out to shake hands with their lieutenants, congratulating them on finding their one, before leaving to follow their mate.

178

Lynnette Bernard ****

Laurie headed out through the kitchen to walk quickly across the deck and down the steps toward the home that Julia shared with her husbands. She was aware that Jace and Jackson followed her, but she didn’t have it in her to talk to them right then. She was humiliated and devastated that her friends had been hurt because of her. The door to the beautiful log home opened before she even made it up the steps. Colin stood before her silently, his emotions raw. “Thank you for defending my wife, Laurie,” he spoke quietly, his voice choking with emotion. Laurie ignored his thanks. She didn’t deserve it. She alone was responsible for Julia and Nikki being hurt. Her screwed-up life had caused them to be dragged into the pain that was such an intricate part of her existence. She had been crazy to think that she was through with it. She had been a fool to think that she deserved anything but the life of loneliness and abuse that she had come to accept. “May I see her, please?” she asked, her voice calm and strong despite how she shook inside. She clamped down on the metal box she envisioned around herself, not allowing any emotions out or in. She refused to hurt anyone ever again. Colin nodded and stepped back, allowing Laurie to enter their home and guiding her into the kitchen. Julia sat at the table, laughing, with Adrian kneeling before her holding a cold gel pack against the right side of her face. “Stop it. I’m fine!” she told him, laughing as she pushed his hand away. Adrian lowered the gel pack, placing it carefully on the table. He reached up and held his wife’s face gently between his large hands and drew her toward him, placing loving kisses across her bruised cheek before covering her lips with his own, gently licking at them until she opened to him and welcomed him inside. Her arms wound around his neck, and she leaned toward him, enjoying every moment of the kiss. Laurie smiled at the love before her. Colin left her side and walked forward to kneel beside his triad mates, encircling them in his embrace and leaning his head in to rest against theirs. Julia pulled away from Adrian, giggling as she turned to kiss Colin just as sweetly. Laurie watched the triad, tears filling her eyes as they cuddled against each other, the men’s hands

Laurie’s Loves

179

resting against Julia’s tummy to gently caress their baby growing inside of her. Her heart hurt to think that she might have been the reason for them to lose this if Patrick had fatally injured Julia or her baby. The metal box around her tightened even more. “Are you all right, Julia?” Laurie finally was able to ask, her throat still tight with the tears she was trying to hold back. Julia looked up and smiled at her. How she could look at her with such open joy after what she had caused was beyond her grasp. Didn’t she realize that she should not want to be anywhere near Laurie or her messed-up life? Julia laughed and stood, drawing both men up to stand beside her. She stepped forward and walked toward Laurie, opening her arms and embracing her. “I’m fine,” she said with exasperation. “I’m not made of glass, you know,” she admonished them all. “Do I have to remind you that I’m a wolf that can fight with the best of you?” “Yes, you can, honey,” Adrian admitted, having been on the receiving end of more than one of her fights. “But you shouldn’t be fighting now that our baby is growing inside of you.” He leaned forward and kissed her cheek. “And don’t get mad at us for being overprotective. Just let us fuss.” Colin leaned forward to kiss her neck before stepping back to avoid the hand that was swatting at him. He knew better than to coddle his wife, but he still enjoyed doing it and riling her up. It made for some hot nights of lovemaking. “Go away, both of you, or you’ll be sleeping in the spare room tonight!” Both men smiled as they took a step away from their wife. They would let her have her way for now. But after their alpha and beta and their mate left, they were going to love her until she screamed both their names. They flashed the picture of their intent into their wife’s head, and she turned to them, winking and nodding in acceptance. Seeing their immediate grins, she turned to face Laurie once again. “Is Nikki all right?” she asked, concern evident in her voice. Laurie nodded, her eyes filling with tears once again. “She’s awake. The doctor said she has a concussion, but she should be fine.” “What about you?” Julia asked, her concerned gaze watching Jace and Jackson as they stood silently beside Laurie.

180

Lynnette Bernard

“I’m fine.” Laurie’s answer was clipped. She was not important. Her friends were. “I just wanted to make sure you’re okay and tell you I’m sorry for what happened.” Julia’s brow furrowed with confusion. “You don’t owe me an apology, Laurie. You’re not responsible for that man’s actions. Don’t you understand that?” “Yes, I am.” “No. You’re not.” Laurie shrugged and stepped away. “I’ll let you rest,” she said quietly. There was no use arguing. She knew the truth. Leaning forward, she took her friend in her arms and hugged her gently. Turning, she walked away, aware that Jace and Jackson remained behind. She would expect them to make sure that a member of their pack was all right. That’s why they were good leaders. They truly cared. **** Laurie turned off the shower and slid open the glass enclosure. She was too tired to even jump when she saw both Jace and Jackson standing before her, each holding a towel, waiting for her. She looked at them silently, seeing the worry in their eyes. She couldn’t hurt them anymore. Stepping out, she allowed them to wrap the towels around her body and her hair, not moving as they rubbed the cooling water from her body. Throwing the damp towels into the sink, they pulled the terrycloth robe from the back of the bathroom door and helped her into it, tying the belt loosely before turning her gently and leading her toward the bedroom. Jace sat in the large wingback chair facing the fireplace, pulling her down to straddle his legs, facing him. Carefully pushing up the sleeve of her robe, he gently placed a cotton cloth around her wrist before wrapping a cold gel pack over the material and securing it carefully with the compression bandage Doc had given them. Throughout his ministrations, she sat as he had positioned her. Jace looked at Laurie with concern, noting how her eyes were devoid of emotion as she stared off, not really focusing on anything. “You should feel better by tomorrow, Laurie,” Jace explained to her quietly. “Our claiming bites have changed your physiology. You’ll be able

Laurie’s Loves

181

to heal faster, be healthier, and your lifespan has been expanded to match ours.” Laurie barely acknowledged his words. She was aware that Jackson stood behind her, brushing the tangles out of her hair. A moment later, she heard the whir of the blow dryer and felt the heat of it against her hair and scalp as Jackson dried her hair. At another time she might have relished the spoiling but not now. She just wanted to sleep. Jackson looked at Jace as his concern for their mate grew. He brushed her hair until it shined, loving the softness of it in his fingers. He wanted to pull back on it to tip their mate’s head back so he could take her lips in a sweet kiss, but he fought back the urge. He saw the way Jace gently caressed her arms and knew that he was fighting his own desire to hold her tightly against his chest and shield her from all the cruelty of the world. Careful to make sure that his movements were slow and gentle, Jackson pulled her from Jace’s lap so that she stood before him. Guiding her slowly, he turned her toward their bed and settled her in the middle of it, toeing off his boots and climbing up to lie beside her. Jace did the same, and they gathered her gently against their bodies, not allowing one inch of space between them. She lay between them, unmoving. They could feel her body tensing and knew her mind was racing with thoughts and emotions. Despite their efforts, they couldn’t break through the barrier that kept them from her thoughts and feelings. “Just rest, baby,” Jace finally told her, gently caressing her forehead until her eyes closed. They lay together silently for more than an hour. Jace and Jackson could feel the exact moment that Laurie fell asleep. Her tense body finally relaxed, and she allowed herself the luxury of feeling cocooned between them, but the barriers her mind had put in place stayed firm. She’s shut us out, Jace. Jace looked at Jackson and nodded slightly. I feel like a part of me is missing. The soft brown of Jackson’s eyes misted with tears as he nodded at his triad mate. My heart hurts. Jace nodded, unashamed of the tears that came to his own eyes. Mine, too.

182

Lynnette Bernard

He reached down and slid his hand inside Laurie’s robe to rest possessively against her belly. When Jackson’s hand met his to rest gently against Laurie’s abdomen, he smiled despite the deep loss he was feeling at being unable to connect with her mind or emotions. Our baby is growing inside her. Can you feel him? Jace’s voice was filled with emotion as he gently caressed her belly. Yes. But it might be a girl. Jackson whispered in his head, smiling at the thought of their little girl growing within Laurie’s womb. Laurie moved restlessly between them, reaching down to cover their hands and push them gently against her stomach. She sighed softly and whispered both of their names. “You can feel it, too, Laurie,” Jace whispered against her temple, kissing her lightly. “You know that our baby is growing inside of you.” Jackson nuzzled against her cheek and kissed it tenderly. “I hope you know how happy that makes us, sweetheart,” he whispered against her ear. “We can’t wait to feel our baby moving and growing inside of you.” Jace smiled through his tears. A vision of him holding an adorable little girl of about three years old flashed through his mind. Her hair was dark brown like Laurie’s, and her face was sweet and beautiful as she snuggled against his chest. She was reaching out, and he saw Jackson move forward to kiss her cheek gently, causing her to giggle. “Papa, Daddy is tickling me!” the little girl squealed with delight as she snuggled into Jace’s chest, laughing as Jackson surrounded them both in a loving embrace. Jackson, I didn’t create that vision. Jace quickly told him, astonished at the realness of the pure joy that they had just experienced. I didn’t either, Jace. Jackson told him quietly. He caressed Laurie’s belly lovingly, looking across the sleeping beauty of their mate to face Jace with tears in his eyes and smiling. I think our daughter did.

Laurie’s Loves

183

Chapter 17 Laurie woke with a start. Jace and Jackson’s arms tightened around her as they pulled her back into their embrace. Her heart was racing as she fought to remember what had scared her so thoroughly. Squeezing her eyes shut, she refused to open them. The vision of her ex’s face bombarded her, and she kept replaying the violence he had directed against her friends. “Is Nikki okay?” she whispered, her voice soft and unsure. “She’s fine,” Jace assured her. “Alexander and Butler are with her. They won’t let any harm come to their mate.” He leaned forward and kissed her temple gently. Jackson carefully removed the compression bandage from her wrist, pulling the gel pack away from it. His hand rubbed her bruised skin carefully, pulling her hand up so he could place gentle kisses against her wrist, sending shivers up her arm. He gazed across their mate to look at Jace. “You’re nearly healed,” Jace whispered, running his finger gently over Laurie’s wrist. Opening her eyes, Laurie looked at her arm and was shocked by what she saw. She flexed her wrist carefully, surprised that she felt very little pain. “I’m sorry we weren’t there to protect you, Laurie,” Jackson whispered against her ear. “We should have been there for you.” Laurie turned to face him, reaching up to touch the dark stubble on his cheek gently. “Don’t,” she told him firmly. “None of you are responsible for what happened.” She looked at him with fire in her eyes. Leaning forward, she kissed him with all the love she truly had for him, reveling in the fact that he opened his heart to her immediately and drew her body against his. She needed him with a desperation that she couldn’t deny. She could feel his love and desire for her in the way he held her. She could

184

Lynnette Bernard

feel the same from Jace as his body molded against hers. She needed to show them that she felt the same, but she just couldn’t open her mind to them. She hurt too much and felt too much guilt to allow them to see her thoughts or feel her emotions. When Jace pulled the robe from her body and kissed her back tenderly, she leaned back against him, reached up to card her fingers through his hair, and pulled him toward her. He claimed her mouth as Jackson stepped from the bed and quickly divested himself of his clothing before rejoining them. Pulling Laurie toward him, he covered her body with his and leaned down to capture her mouth. “I need to be inside you, Laurie,” he whispered desperately against her mouth. Without hesitation, Laurie reached down and guided his shaft to her opening, moaning as he pushed into her waiting channel. Pulling out slightly, he inched back inside, rocking his hips to gather the moisture that awaited him to ease the passage into her body. When she wrapped her legs around his waist and moved with him, he was lost to her. She rocked her hips to meet each thrust, her eyes never leaving his face as he stared down at her with such open love that her heart actually hurt. Jace reached out to gently caress her breasts, needing the connection. He had been afraid that they had lost her forever last night. The fact that she had turned to Jackson and was allowing him to love her made his heart have hope that everything would be all right between them. His hand trailed down to gather some of her juices, taking them to the small bundle of nerves that he knew would make her soar. He rubbed her gently, increasing the pressure as Jackson’s thrusts became more forceful. He could feel Laurie’s body tightening and knew she was close. “Come for us, Laurie,” he whispered, pinching her clit as Jackson slammed home and held himself still as he pulsed deep within her. Laurie moaned as her orgasm took hold and raced through her body, crying out Jackson’s name as the mating knot formed, joining them together. She gasped as Jace’s fingers continued to rub against her, and she shook with tremors, fueled by the steady pumping of Jackson’s release deep inside of her. Jackson lay against her chest, his face nuzzled against her shoulder, kissing her neck gently as he fought to control his breathing. He was knotted

Laurie’s Loves

185

deep inside his mate, and his seed was bathing her warm channel. His baby was resting safely within her womb, and he couldn’t be happier. Laurie rubbed his back tenderly, kissing his shoulder lightly as she breathed deeply, willing her racing heart to settle down. When Jackson lifted his head and smiled down at her, she had to close her eyes to the emotion that she saw. It hurt too much to care about someone so much. She knew she would put them, as well as the rest of their family, in physical danger if she stayed. She also knew she would hurt both of these wonderful men emotionally if she left. She didn’t want to do either. Jackson kissed her forehead, her temple, her eyes, moaning as the knot slowly released and he was able to pull from her warmth very gently. He kissed her lips as he slipped from her body. Her heart hurt more as she thought about how tender they both were to her. When they made love to her, they thought about her feelings and her finding her release before they found their own. Even when they pulled out of her body, they thought of her physical well-being, never allowing her to feel any amount of pain. As Jackson lay beside her, she turned to kiss him gently, caressing his cheek lightly. “Thank you,” she whispered, a sad smile covering her face. “My pleasure,” he told her, winking devilishly. She couldn’t help the small laugh that escaped her, and saw how happy that made him. Jace snuggled against her back and wrapped his arms around her, his hand splayed across her belly, caressing her gently before reaching up to tenderly cup her breast as he kissed her neck. She could feel his arousal against her bottom and was surprised that he was content to just hold her. These men continued to amaze her. They truly put her first in all that they did. Kissing Jackson’s chest lightly, she turned and faced Jace as he released her to allow her to settle against his chest. She raised her leg over his hip and gasped as his hard cock brushed against her folds. She saw him close his eyes at the intimate contact and knew she needed him just as much as she had needed Jackson. Without hesitation, she reached down and took hold of his shaft, pulling up on the silky hardness, closing her eyes in joy at the feel of him in her hand. She heard his moan against her forehead as she guided him to her body, pushing the mushroom head into her and angling her hips forward to take him inside her. He helped her then by pushing against her until his entire length was taken in by her warm and willing body. He

186

Lynnette Bernard

pumped carefully for a bit before turning her body so that she lay open and inviting beneath him. “Laurie,” he moaned as his body found the rhythm that allowed them both to feel the building of physical and emotional heights that Jace admitted he had never hoped to find with anyone in his life. Laurie held him to her tightly, loving every thrust and retreat. Her body opened to him easily, taking every inch with total joy and yearning. Their bodies made hers sing. She just wished she could give back to them onetenth of the joy that they gave her. Jackson reached out and tenderly cupped her breast, teasing her distended nipple and pulling on it lightly. Gasping at the feel of his touch, she covered his hand with her own and pushed it against her swollen breast, loving the strength of his large hand touching her. Her body tightened as Jace’s thrusts brushed against her already stimulated clit, tensing at the immediate rush of excitement. She couldn’t stop the moan that escaped her as she found her second release of the morning, pulling Jace tightly against her as he stiffened, his mating knot taking hold inside her. He bellowed her name as his body pulsed with pleasure as great spurts of his seed emptied into her body. As they fought to control their breathing, Jace kissed the side of her face tenderly, gently stroking her body as he waited for his knot to release her. Lying in her soft embrace, he was content. Breathing in contentedly, he kissed his mating mark and smiled as she sighed softly beneath him. The still-hard length of his cock slid slowly from her body, making them both moan at the sensation. He settled beside her, pulling her against his chest and kissing the top of her head lightly as he breathed in the new scent of his mate, made different by the miracle of their child that was growing deep inside of her. Laurie reached out to entwine her fingers with his hand as Jackson reached for her and encircled her waist and pulled her back so that she lay on her back between the two of them. Despite their intimacy, there was a sadness that still enveloped her. Both Jace and Jackson could feel it. The feeling of utter despair bled from her soul, and her mates were pained by each throbbing ache that emanated from her. Laurie, please open your mind to us. Jackson’s voice spoke softly through their bond, but only Jace heard him.

Laurie’s Loves

187

She’s still closed herself to us, Jackson. Jace’s worried voice mirrored his own concern. Jackson nodded sadly but refused to give up. Reaching out, he covered their mate’s belly and rubbed it tenderly, sending love to their baby sleeping peacefully within Laurie’s womb. **** Laurie slowly made her way down the wide staircase, holding onto the banister as she went. She felt exhausted and a little dizzy, but she wasn’t surprised by that. Every waking moment and those few moments she had been able to sleep had been filled with worry and guilt. Her friends had been hurt. Because of her. It didn’t matter what everyone told her. She knew the truth. She brought danger and sadness to everyone whose lives she touched. She couldn’t allow anyone else to be hurt because of her. Knocking lightly on the office door, she heard Jackson’s voice call for her to come in. Pushing the door open quietly, she stepped inside the office and hesitated. Jace was on the phone. He looked up as she entered and smiled, waving her in. Jackson reached out, holding his left hand out to her. She walked to him slowly, reaching out to touch his hand, gasping as he pulled her gently toward him so that she was seated sideways on his lap. “Morning, beautiful,” he whispered against her neck, nuzzling her and taking in her wonderful scent. “Morning,” Laurie said quietly, unable to look him in the eye. “I’m sorry to bother you both.” Jackson pulled her toward his body, settling his right hand beside her hip, and laying the flat of his left hand against her stomach. He could sense her unease and worried at her distance. She still had her mind closed to them, and he wanted to cuddle her against his chest and assure her that everything was fine. “Honey, you’re welcome in this office whenever you want,” he stopped her. “We want you with us all the time.” Laurie nodded absently, their kindness touching her heart and filling her with warmth. How could she ever live with herself if these men were hurt because of her? Before she could say anything, Jace ended his call and stood

188

Lynnette Bernard

up to walk around the desk and stand before them. He leaned forward and kissed her forehead lightly, closing his eyes and breathing in her scent. I can scent her pregnancy. He smiled as he noted that Jackson’s hand covered their baby in their mate’s body. The baby has made her smell even sweeter. Jackson smiled up at him, barely able to contain his joy. I can’t wait to feel the baby moving and growing. Jace nodded, smiling down at them both. His heart almost hurt at the emotions he was feeling at finally being a part of a mated triad. “I saw Nikki this morning,” Laurie told them quietly. She looked up at Jace, and he could tell she was trying to hold herself together. “I checked with Doc,” Jace told her, reaching out to stroke her cheek with his index finger. “He said she’s doing well and should be back to normal by tomorrow, but he wants her to take it easy for a while.” Laurie nodded. “I’m glad,” she said so softly they barely heard her. “And I’m glad Alexander and Butler are going to protect her. She’s had a hard life.” Jace looked down at her silently. “I checked on Julia. She’s totally healed. One of the perks of being a wolf shifter.” Unable to hold back any longer, he reached out and took her by her upper arms to pull her up into his embrace, tucking her head under his chin as he kissed the top of her head gently. “Everything will be fine, Laurie,” he promised. “We won’t let that man hurt any of you ever again.” Laurie wished with all her heart that what he was saying could be true. But they didn’t know the extent of Patrick’s cruelty. He was truly an evil man. She couldn’t allow him near these wonderful people. She feared for all of them, especially her children, who were often the recipients of his cruelty. “Jace, you don’t know what he’s capable of,” she told him sadly, unable to look at either man as she spoke. “He’ll go after my kids because he knows that’s the one way that will hurt me the most.” “Then you need to bring your children here,” Jace interrupted her. “They’re pack now and will be protected by all of us. I want them here with us from now on.” Laurie looked up at him in surprise. His face was filled with determination, and she knew that the anger that was rolling off of him was

Laurie’s Loves

189

directed at the man who had hurt her and her children repeatedly over the years. “If he dares to come near you or the children, or any member of this pack, he will not live to see another day.” The quiet calm of Jace’s words made her shiver. She could feel the power of the man. Laurie stepped back as she looked up at him, seeing him as Patrick would see him. Jace was a force to be reckoned with. His size, his musculature, his fierce loyalty and ability to protect his pack made him alpha. It was evident in all that he was, and this knowledge slammed through her full force. She realized that she was privy to a softer, gentler side of him, all of the immediate family members were, but that did not diminish the fact that he could and would protect every one of them to his last breath. Jackson reached out and rested his hand on Jace’s shoulder, centering him and calming his anger. Leaning in toward them both, he cocooned Laurie between them and leaned his head down to rest against the side of her face. “Please, Laurie,” Jackson whispered against her temple. “Bring your children here. They’re our children now, too. Bring them home to us.” Tears filled Laurie’s eyes as she felt the strength of the two men as they held her tightly. She wanted to believe that everything would be okay. She wanted more than anything else for her children to be their children. But she didn’t always get what she wanted. Actually, except for the birth of her children, she never got what she wanted. She was afraid that if she dared to hope, she would just be disappointed. Again.

190

Lynnette Bernard

Chapter 18 Laurie slowly made her way to their bedroom, taking a seat in the large, comfortable chair before the fireplace. The last two days had been difficult for her. Jace and Jackson had been loving and supportive, and the rest of the family had been very forgiving of the incident with Patrick, but she couldn’t stop the fear she had that Patrick would make true on his promise to hurt her by hurting the people she cared about. She wasn’t aware of how much time had passed as she stared, unseeing, into the empty fireplace, lost inside her own head. She had so much to think about. She knew she had to leave. It would be best for everyone if she left, disappearing from their lives, so they would be safe. She had come to care about them all too much to put them in any more danger. And danger is exactly what they would be in when Patrick found her. It wasn’t that he cared about her or the kids. It was that he felt he owned them. No matter how many years had passed since their divorce, he still haunted her and tormented them all. It was the classic case of if he couldn’t have them, no one else could have them. Her mind finally made up, she stood and walked to the large walk-in closet. She reached for her small suitcase and spread it out on the bed that she shared with Jace and Jackson. Her eyes filled with tears as she realized she would be giving up the only time she had ever truly felt like she belonged somewhere. She felt a pain in her chest as she thought about how she deeply loved both men. It didn’t matter that their relationship was unconventional. It didn’t matter that she had only known them a short time. Time didn’t matter when it was the right one. Ones, in her case. Before she left she would have to make Nikki promise not to give anyone her address or phone number. She knew Jace and Jackson would try to contact her and try to find her. That would only put them in danger. And she couldn’t allow that to happen.

Laurie’s Loves

191

She nearly jumped a foot when her cell phone rang, breaking the silence of the room and scaring her in the process. She reached for it quickly, nearly falling to the floor as she stretched to reach the nightstand where her phone lay. Looking at the display, she didn’t recognize the number. Opening it quickly, she prayed it wasn’t Patrick. He somehow always found out her phone number no matter how many times she had it changed. “Hello?” she answered quietly. “Hello, is this Ms. Laurie Young?” a woman’s voice asked from the other end of the line. “Yes, this is Laurie Young.” “This is Officer Pauline Thomas from the Colorado State Police,” the woman continued. “I’m calling to inform you that your daughter, Mia Young, has been in a car accident and has been brought to Denver Memorial Hospital.” “Oh my God,” Laurie whispered, dropping down to land with a thud on the floor. “Is she okay?” “I don’t have that information at this time. I’m sorry,” the officer apologized. “The attending physician is checking her out now. But you should know that she was clear and lucid when she handed me her cell phone to give me your phone number and told me to call you. She was pretty adamant that the only people she wanted me to call were you and her brother.” “I’m on my way,” Laurie told her, standing up and grabbing for her purse as she nearly ran from the bedroom. “Can you tell me what happened?” There was a hesitation on the other end of the line, causing Laurie to stop dead in her tracks as fear gripped her. She held her breath as the officer cleared her throat and answered firmly. “It appears that your daughter was run off the road by someone driving a dark sports car,” she told her carefully. “We’ll question your daughter as soon as the doctor allows us in to speak with her.” Laurie nearly choked on the pain that bubbled up inside her. It had already started. Patrick was making good on his promise to hurt the kids. She knew without a doubt that the dark sports car was his. “Have you called my son yet?” Laurie asked quietly, forcing the panic down.

192

Lynnette Bernard

“No, ma’am, we haven’t.” “I’ll call him,” Laurie told her quickly. “Please tell Mia I’m on my way and that her brother Dean will be there before I can get there.” “Yes, ma’am,” the officer answered. “Be sure to drive safely.” “Thank you,” Laurie whispered, snapping her cell phone shut and making her way through the lodge quickly. Spotting Vera Moore, the housekeeper she had been introduced to when she had arrived, Laurie walked to her quickly, doing everything she could to keep herself under control. The older woman watched her warily with definite coldness in her eyes, making Laurie hesitate in her journey toward the woman. “Vera, would you please tell Jace and Jackson that I have a family emergency and I have to leave for a while,” she told her firmly, unwilling to go into detail with a woman who had been less than welcoming to her. She wished she could have found someone else to ask, but the house was empty, and she couldn’t wait another minute to leave. Vera nodded briskly, not speaking a word, turning and walking away without a backward glance. Laurie only had a moment to worry about it before she turned and ran from the main house. She couldn’t hold the tears at bay any longer. By the time she reached her car, pulling open the driver’s door and throwing her purse onto the passenger seat, the tears were falling freely down her face. Climbing into her car, she started it quickly, buckling her seatbelt and pulling away from the ranch, ignoring the pack members who saw her leaving. She knew she must have looked a sight, crying and driving with abandon, but she didn’t care. All she knew was she had to get to the hospital and protect her babies once again. She drove with determination toward the hospital, thankful that she wasn’t pulled over for speeding along the way. As she drove she prayed that all would be well. She could only hope that God would see fit to watch over her babies until she arrived. Lucian turned to Cole as Laurie passed them and rushed to her car. Their alpha and beta had not given the order to detain their mate if she tried to leave the compound, but seeing her tears made him know that this was not something to be ignored.

Laurie’s Loves

193

Without hesitation, Luc pulled out his cell phone and called Jace. It went right to voice mail, and he was concerned. He knew that this situation was one that needed to be addressed immediately. “Alpha, this is Luc,” he said quickly. “Your mate just left the compound, and she was very upset. It looked like she was crying.” He turned to face Cole and saw that his triad partner was just as concerned. “Cole and I are going to follow her to make sure she’s safe.” **** A great sigh of relief escaped Laurie as she finally pulled into the hospital parking lot, cursing as she searched for an empty parking space. She nearly cried with relief when she finally found one. Parking and jumping from the car, she pushed the automatic lock on her key chain and ran for the main entrance. It took nearly ten minutes to find out where her daughter was being held. The nurse who finally came through with the information pointed toward the elevators at the end of the hall. “Room 206, second floor,” the nurse told her, stepping back as Laurie rushed by to head toward the elevators. The ride up the one flight was endless. Laurie’s heart was beating hard against her chest as the doors finally slid open and she was facing a waiting room partitioned off with floor-to-ceiling glass doors. Stepping forward, she pulled the doors open and stepped into the waiting arms of her son Dean. “Mom! Thank God you’re here,” Dean whispered as he pulled her into his arms and held her firmly in his embrace. Laurie squeezed him tightly, thankful that he was there. “Dean, have you seen her yet?” she asked quickly, trying very hard not to cry and make him more nervous than she knew he already was. He stepped back and put his arm around her shoulder as he directed her out of the waiting room toward the semi-private room that housed his sister. “Yeah, they let me in to see her a little while ago but just made me leave so they could examine her.” They stood together outside the room, waiting, knowing that they couldn’t go in just yet. It was killing Laurie to be so close and be unable to get to her daughter. She stood with her back against the corridor wall,

194

Lynnette Bernard

nervously wringing her hands together as they waited. Turning to look at Dean, she saw he was equally agitated as he stood with his arms folded across his broad chest, the muscles of his arms bulging under his T-shirt, and his face covered in a day-old beard. She saw the worry in him as he stood straight and tall as he faced the closed door to the room that his sister was in. Laurie smiled as she watched him, knowing that he had turned into a wonderful person. How had she ever gotten so lucky to have such amazing children? “When did you up and turn into a man?” she asked him, smiling. He turned toward her, a confused expression on his face before he smiled slowly. “When you weren’t looking,” he teased her, glad to see the smile that covered his mother’s face. After what seemed like an eternity, the door to the room finally opened. A young nurse with short black hair and a soothing smile stepped out, rolling a portable blood pressure machine. “You can go in now,” she said quietly to them both. “The doctor will be in shortly to speak to all of you.” “Thank you,” Dean answered, smiling at the young nurse. “This is my mom Laurie,” he introduced her. The woman smiled. “I can see the resemblance between the three of you.” Laurie smiled, loving the way people always commented that her children looked like her in both features and coloring. All three of them had the same brown eyes and dark brown hair. Only Dean was different in that his height was already surpassing six feet and she and Mia were tiny in comparison. Turning quickly, she walked into the room. At any other time, she would have stopped to talk and be friendly, but her only thoughts were of Mia. She had to get in to see her. The room was darkened, the blinds pulled to allow as little light in as possible. Laurie turned and nearly cried out as she saw her daughter’s form lying so still in the hospital bed. “Baby girl?” she spoke softly. Mia turned toward her mother’s voice and smiled, tears filling her eyes immediately. “Mom,” she whispered, reaching out her arms and trying to lean up to embrace her.

Laurie’s Loves

195

Laurie was beside her immediately, pulling her daughter gently into her arms and hugging her as tightly as she dared. “I’m here, baby,” she whispered against her daughter’s face, kissing her cheek and breathing in the scent that was uniquely Mia. Laurie could hear Dean walking around the other side of the bed to sit on the edge to face his sister. “How ya doing, Mia?” he asked her softly, reaching out to embrace both her and their mother. “I’d be much better if you two weren’t squeezing me to death,” she mumbled against their shoulders. Laurie laughed and gently released her hold on her daughter, smiling as Dean grumbled and sat back to stare down at his sister. “Okay, brat,” he told her calmly. “Is that better?” Mia smiled and let out a small laugh, holding her head immediately as the pain shot through her. “Don’t make me laugh, Dean. It hurts.” “Sorry,” he said immediately. “What did the doctor say?” “She said I’ll be sore for a while, but she didn’t think there were any broken bones or internal injuries. They took some X-rays to be sure. My neck and shoulders hurt from gripping the steering wheel and trying to keep control of the car.” Mia turned to her mother and looked at her with fire in her eyes. “It was Patrick, Mom,” she said with such anger that Laurie had no doubt that if he were here right now, Mia would unleash all her pent-up anger and frustration. Mia and Dean both knew that Patrick had never been much of a father to either of them. Neither kid ever referred to him as Dad. They grew up with him being absent except for rare moments over the years when he made sure they knew he hated their very existence. “You saw him?” Laurie asked, knowing before she spoke what the answer would be. She had no doubt in her mind that Patrick was putting in place his form of judgment and sentencing. She knew that he would never leave them alone. He would continue to hurt them and prove he had control over them until they took their last breaths. “He didn’t try to hide himself,” Mia answered disgustedly. “He swerved into me three times before I couldn’t hold the car on the road anymore. Luckily, I just spun out on a section of dirt next to the highway. I hit a guardrail. I think the car is totaled. Sorry, Mom.”

196

Lynnette Bernard

“I don’t care about the car, honey,” Laurie answered vehemently. “I only care that you’re okay. We can always replace a car, but I can never replace either of you.” Mia nodded, trying to hold back the tears. She had always been the strong one who took on the protection of her mother and brother. No one ever messed with her. But now that her mom was there, she could finally let go. She was scared, in pain, and angry. She didn’t want to be in control anymore. She needed her mom to help her give up that control. The door to the room opened, and all three of them tensed. Looking up, they saw the woman who Mia recognized as being the attending physician when she had been admitted. The older woman smiled down at them, her deep blue eyes filled with caring as she looked down at the obviously loving family. She pushed up her wire rimmed glasses and took a calming breath as she held a clipboard in one hand against her chest. “Hello, Mia,” she greeted her warmly, looking at the two obviously very concerned people who sat on the bed beside her. “I’m Dr. Rogers. I didn’t get a chance to introduce myself before. We were all a little busy when you were brought in.” “I remember,” Mia answered quickly. “This is my mother Laurie, and my brother Dean.” The doctor nodded to them and looked down at the chart that she carried. “I just wanted to let you know that all of your tests and X-rays came back negative. You have no internal bleeding and no broken bones. Due to the severity of the crash, you should expect to be pretty sore for the next few days at least. We’d like to keep you in the hospital overnight for observation. As long as your condition remains stable, we’ll be able to discharge you in the morning. I’ll make sure one of the nurses schedules a follow-up visit so I can check on you in about a week.” Laurie let out a breath she didn’t realize she was holding. “Thank you, Dr. Rogers,” she said, trying with all her might to keep herself under control. “You’re very welcome.” Dean squeezed Mia’s hand, unable to talk. He was more than relieved. He didn’t know what he would do if something ever happened to his sister or his mother. The three of them were a team. They always had been, and always would be.

Laurie’s Loves

197

The doctor turned and walked to the door, reaching out to open it, then hesitated and turned to look back at the three of them. “There was a call that came in to the main switchboard that was forwarded to me a little while ago. It was from a man who claimed to be your father. He wanted to know the status of your condition.” Laurie’s heart stopped beating. Oh, God. He knows where we are! “I don’t have a father,” Mia spoke up strongly. “He died when I was a baby.” Laurie looked at her daughter, stunned. “Mia?” she whispered, unsure what to say. “Don’t give out any information about me to anyone who calls. The people in this room are my only family. No one else should even know I exist.” The doctor nodded and left the room without another word. “Mom, I told the police that Patrick was driving the car that ran me off the road,” Mia told her, her voice strong and sure. “They said they were going to pick him up for questioning. Hopefully, they’ll see the damage to his car and hold him for a while. Then I’m going to press charges.” Laurie nodded. “Good.” Mia smiled for the first time and relaxed against the pillows. Laurie lay down next to her, gently holding her daughter’s hand as she did so. Dean lay down on the other side of her and did the same. “So, how’s your vacation, Mom?” Dean asked, smiling at the feeling of finally being able to relax. “It’s really nice,” Laurie told them honestly. She hesitated a moment, unsure how to tell her children about Jace and Jackson. “I think I’ve finally found love.” Mia and Dean looked at her in shock. “Really?” Dean asked smiling, one eyebrow quirked with humor. “Yes, Dean, and don’t tease,” she warned her son. “I’m not,” Dean began. “Yes, you are. Shut up, Dean,” Mia told him quickly. “So who is this guy, Mom? Does he treat you with respect?” As always, Mia’s voice was filled with concern. Laurie blushed and lowered her eyes. Here goes nothing. “It’s actually two men,” she began hesitantly.

198

Lynnette Bernard

Mia laughed out loud, wincing slightly at the pain it caused her sore muscles. “Go, Mom!” Laurie blushed but couldn’t help but laugh at her daughter’s enthusiasm. “They are the owners of the lodge where I’m staying. They’re wonderful men. The whole community there is amazing. Nothing like I’ve ever seen before. They’re all in triad relationships. It’s different, but it seems to work for them. I’ve never seen people so happy.” Laurie hesitated, thinking through what she wanted to say to her children. “Jace and Jackson seem to feel that we were fated to meet to form a triad. They want us all to be a part of their family. They want you two to be with us. They say that because you’re my children, you’re their children, too. They value their family and friends, and they treat me with such tenderness and caring it makes me afraid.” “Of what, Mom?” Mia asked quietly. “I’m not exactly the best judge of men,” she whispered. “Mom, don’t let your lack of judgment over Patrick ruin your future,” Dean cautioned her seriously. “That was a long time ago, and you’re not a shy seventeen-year-old anymore.” “Mom, you’ve been alone for a long time,” Mia told her quietly. “We know you’ve given up a lot to take care of us. If you’ve found someone, or two someones, who care about you, you shouldn’t let that pass you by. You deserve to be happy. You deserve to be loved. Don’t make a mistake and throw it away.” Laurie smiled across at her two angels. “When did you two get to be so smart?” she asked them sarcastically. “We were born that way,” Mia answered sleepily. “We take after our mother.” Laurie smiled and snuggled against her daughter. She reached out to take hold of Dean’s arm as he embraced the both of them. Mia grumbled and pushed at Dean. “Geez, Dean, you’re squishing me!” “Quiet, brat,” he told her calmly. “You scared the crap out of us, so just be still and let us hold you.” “Mom!” Mia whined. “You heard your brother,” Laurie answered, smiling into the pillow as she lay next to her daughter. “Quiet, brat.”

Laurie’s Loves

199

Chapter 19 The large black wolf appeared, slowly emerging from the edge of the tree line and making his way to the private lodge of the pack. A blue shimmer of magic encompassed him, and Jace appeared, walking purposely toward their home. After a long run, he felt refreshed and ready to take on more pack business. It was moments like these when Jace was thankful for his wolf. Since he and Jackson had mated with Laurie, he no longer feared his wolf overpowering his humanity. Her presence centered him. He was able to embrace both parts of himself with little worry. He knew Jackson sensed his peaceful acceptance, and that had helped Jackson resolve his worry about his own wolf, as well as Jace’s. When Jace stepped up onto the back porch, he could feel that something was not right. Walking quickly into the house, he made his way up the stairs, taking them two at a time, and headed straight for their bedroom. Opening the door quickly, his heart thudded in his chest as he saw the opened suitcase on top of the bed. Some of Laurie’s clothes were scattered inside it. He knew in that instant that she was gone. Everything in him broke at that moment. Jackson! He screamed through their bond, reaching forward to steady himself against the bed, unable to stop the pain clutching at his chest. Jace, what’s wrong? She’s gone. His voice was dead. As dead as his heart. He didn’t know how long it took for Jackson to reach their room, but he could sense his best friend’s pain as he stepped toward the bed and sat down beside him slowly. When he looked up at him, he saw the pain and anguish on Jackson’s face that he knew mirrored his own. “She’s left us?” Jackson whispered, unable to wrap his head around the concept of never seeing their mate again.

200

Lynnette Bernard

Jace stood slowly and looked around the room, trying desperately to make sense of the scene before him. “Why would she leave without taking her things?” “Maybe she wanted to leave quickly so we wouldn’t try and stop her,” Jackson offered, his voice filled with pain and loss. Jace pulled the phone from its cradle on the bedside nightstand and dialed the front desk. It seemed an eternity before he heard Janine’s voice answer. “Janine, have you seen Laurie?” he asked, his voice firm. There was no way he was going to deal with any of her shit right then. “No, Alpha,” Janine answered quickly, knowing his tone meant not to mess with him. “Has anyone seen her?” “I’ll check.” Jace waited while he heard Janine’s muffled voice ask whoever was next to her if they had seen Laurie. Jackson stood and made his way toward Jace, waiting silently beside him. “No one in the lobby has seen her,” Janine told him quickly. “Alexander and Butler are in their suite, and I haven’t seen Lucian and Cole.” A growl left Jace’s throat, and he slammed down the phone, cracking the base. Stalking through the bedroom, with Jackson following quickly behind him, he made his way back down to the kitchen, going to the laundry room to retrieve his clothes and pull them on with angry tugs. Picking up his phone, he looked at it briefly and saw that he had two missed calls. He pushed the button to call and retrieve his messages. Each moment of not knowing where his mate was made him more uneasy. “Alpha, this is Luc. Your mate just left the compound, and she was very upset. It looked like she was crying. Cole and I are going to follow her to make sure she’s safe.” Jace’s heart was beating painfully in his chest. Laurie left, and she was crying? What had happened? The message ended, and Jace pushed the button to retrieve the last message. “Alpha, this is Luc. We were unable to locate your mate. By the time we got to our truck and made our way out to the entrance of the ranch, there was no sign of her. We took a chance and drove to the highway, but we’ve seen no signs of her. We’re on our way back to the compound now.”

Laurie’s Loves

201

The immediate tightening in Jace’s chest made him reach for the chair before him. He didn’t remember heading into the kitchen, but there he was. Sitting down, Jace took a deep breath, making every effort to calm himself. Jackson’s hand on his arm did nothing to soothe him. He needed Laurie. They needed Laurie. He could feel his tenuous hold on his control slipping. Looking up at Jackson, he saw the strain on his face. He knew Jackson had heard the messages, and he could feel the despair that was consuming him as well. Ending the connection, Jace pushed his phone into his pocket then turned and left the kitchen. Jackson immediately followed him. There was no doubt in Jackson’s mind that Jace had a plan. Jace took the steps two at a time, with purpose and determination, until he reached the suite of rooms that belonged to Alexander and Butler. Taking a deep breath, he made an obvious effort to calm himself before raising his hand and knocking twice on the door. They could hear the heavy trod of feet approach the door before it was pulled open and Butler stood before them, his eyebrows raised in surprise to see his alpha and beta standing before him. Without hesitation, he took a step back and gestured with his hand to allow them entrance into the room. Jace nodded to Butler, then to Alexander, before turning to walk toward Nikki as she sat on the oversized brown suede couch against the far wall of the living room. Nikki’s eyes widened in surprise as the two mountainous men made their way toward her. Looking them over from top to bottom and back again, she could see how Laurie had lost her heart to them so quickly. They were stunningly gorgeous. Both were well over six feet tall, with bodies wrapped in bulging muscles. Their faces were rugged and beautifully manly, if there was such a term. Their eyes were ice blue and soft brown, but it was the pure pain and concern that looked out at her from those eyes that caught her heart. She could tell by their actions that they truly cared about everyone. She was pulled from her appraisal of them when she heard the warning growls emanating from Alexander and Butler as they took their place on either side of her on the couch. She turned to them and was surprised to see that both men’s eyes were flashing golden, and it looked like their incisors had elongated as they looked at Jace and Jackson. “Down, boys,” Nikki told them, patting their legs reassuringly.

202

Lynnette Bernard

Jace nodded abruptly. “Nikki, I know you need to rest, but we need to know if you can help us get in contact with Laurie.” “Why? Where is she?” Nikki asked worriedly. “We don’t know,” Jackson told her quietly. “Give me my purse, Alexander.” Nikki pointed to the end of the couch where her bag sat next to him. “Laurie wouldn’t just leave like that. Something has to be wrong.” Jace nodded, glad that Nikki affirmed his suspicions. He waited silently while Nikki pulled her phone from her purse and flipped it open, pushing speed dial to connect to Laurie’s phone. Nikki looked up at the two men, her forehead creased with concern. “It’s going straight to voice mail. She doesn’t have her phone on.” Jace handed Nikki his phone. “Program her number in for me.” His voice brooked no room for refusal. Nikki didn’t even hesitate, taking his phone and quickly programming Laurie’s number into it. Turning to Jackson, she put out her hand to take his phone to do the same for him. “What happened?” Nikki asked them, trying to stand but wobbling a little. Both Alexander and Butler were by her side immediately, reaching for her arms to grip them while wrapping their arms around her waist to hold her steady. “Mate, you need to be careful,” Butler warned her gruffly. “Oh, shush.” Nikki pushed at him, not budging him an inch. “And stop that mate crap.” “Nikki,” Alexander warned her. “You be quiet, too,” Nikki warned him, ignoring both of them to focus on Jace. “What happened?” she repeated. Jace rubbed his hands over his face, taking a deep breath to try to calm himself. “She was upset by what happened at the mall. She blames herself for what happened to you and Julia.” “She is not responsible for what Pigface did!” Nikki nearly shrieked. Jace stared at Nikki in shock. Then a smile crept over his face. “Pigface?” Jackson asked, his voice tinged with humor. “Her ex,” Nikki explained, waving her hand to dismiss the name she had always given him. “For as long as I’ve known Laurie, he’s had her convinced that every bad thing he did, every bad thing that happened, was

Laurie’s Loves

203

her fault. He’s been harassing her for the last fifteen years that they’ve been divorced, and for the entire five years that they were married. God, I hate that guy!” Nikki looked up at Jace and Jackson, and her eyes narrowed as she sized them up. “I’m only going to warn you both one time,” she told them quietly, raising her index finger to point at them both. “If you disrespect Laurie in any way, if you hurt her in any way, if you crush her spirit and make her feel worthless again, I will rip your dicks off.” “Nikki!” Alexander and Butler both gasped at the same time. “Honey, you can’t threaten our alpha and beta,” Alexander told her sternly. “Watch me!” Nikki nearly shouted at them. “I’ll do the same to you if you think you’re going to tell me what to do or what to say!” “Alpha.” Butler stepped forward and lowered his head. “Please accept our apology.” Nikki grabbed Butler by the shoulder and pushed with all her strength. “Don’t you dare apologize for me, you big Neanderthal!” Butler turned to face her and reached out to hold her tightly against his chest. “You will calm yourself, woman, before you injure yourself further,” he warned her angrily. “You will get out of my face before I show you just how I’ll injure you, you big jerk!” Nikki struggled against Butler’s chest with no results. When Alexander stepped up behind her and encircled her in his embrace, she lost her fight, exhaustion overtaking her. “Please, Mate,” Alexander whispered against her neck. “Please don’t tire yourself. I couldn’t bear to see you suffering again. It rips my heart out.” Nikki stopped struggling immediately. Alexander’s genuine concern for her took her by surprise. No one except Laurie and her children had ever cared if she was ever hurt in her entire life. Standing between the two men who held her so gently, she was powerless to stop the feelings of yearning she had to truly belong to them. And if that didn’t scare the shit out of her, nothing would. Pulling away from both of them, she was aware that she was only able to do so because they allowed it. Turning, she faced Jace and Jackson again. “I will not apologize for what I said,” she told them, her voice strong and sure. “I will not allow you to hurt Laurie.”

204

Lynnette Bernard

Jace smiled down at Nikki. “You have nothing to apologize for, Nikki,” he told her honestly. “Laurie has a good friend and protector in you. But you don’t need to worry. Jackson and I would never hurt her. We want to protect and love her for the rest of our lives.” Nikki remained silent for a moment before nodding when she accepted what he had said. “All right then. See that you do.” “We will,” Jace promised, smiling. “We both like our dicks exactly where they are.” Nikki laughed despite her worries. “I’ll bet Laurie does, too,” she teased.

Laurie’s Loves

205

Chapter 20 Laurie’s heart was racing as she turned onto the long driveway that lead to the Circle Three Ranch. It had been a long three days. Each day away from Jace and Jackson actually made her physically ache. She didn’t understand it, but she couldn’t deny the need she had to be with them, to touch them. She hadn’t been sleeping, and she knew she looked awful. The panic attacks she’d been having had also taken their toll on her. She hadn’t been able to eat much, feeling nauseous and exhausted almost constantly. She and Dean had stayed at the hospital with Mia until she was released, going back to their apartment and packing up what little they had. Since it was a furnished apartment, there really wasn’t much for them to take. It took them no time at all to pack their few personal items, their clothes, some picture albums, and their materials for school. Laurie had all three of their cell phones changed to new, unlisted numbers that were blocked, so they wouldn’t show up on caller ID. They contacted the college that both Mia and Dean would be attending in the fall to give them the address of the Circle Three Ranch so that any materials they needed would be sent there. They also put into place restrictions so that no information would be given out to anyone but the three of them. They couldn’t take any chances that Patrick would be able to find them and hurt them. Laurie also took the time to close out her bank accounts, taking what meager savings she had and carrying the money and all their personal documents in a small fire safe she had tucked away in the trunk of her car. Dean’s car was packed to overflowing, as was Laurie’s, but it felt good that they were getting away before Patrick was released from jail. Hopefully, it would be a while before his new girlfriend could post bail. When they had left their apartment, they had made plans to separate and travel around the Colorado area in opposite directions for a day, just in case

206

Lynnette Bernard

they were being followed. Only once they were sure they were not being followed did they head toward their true destination. The last check-in phone call Laurie had received from Mia let her know that they were about two hours behind her. Laurie was actually glad for this, so she would have some time with Jace and Jackson before the kids arrived at the ranch. She didn’t know what she would do if the men decided they didn’t want her or her children after all. “At least the cars are packed, and we can just move on if they don’t want us,” Laurie told herself as she drove toward the ranch. The main building for the tourists loomed before her. Her heart beat a rapid tattoo against her ribs, and she prayed she was still welcome. Parking the car, she unbuckled her seatbelt and opened the driver’s side door to step out of the car and stand beside it, shutting the door quietly and leaning against the car for support. Closing her eyes, she pictured the heavy metal chest she had shielded herself in opening slowly, to be replaced by a white light of protection. Very carefully, she envisioned a small window within the bubble of protection opening and felt herself searching for Jace and Jackson. Their despair slammed into her and nearly brought her to her knees. She could feel every bit of anguish they felt, every bit of loneliness that consumed them, every bit of loss that they had suffered by her absence. She couldn’t stop the tears that filled her eyes at the aching love she could feel they had for her. Her heart whispered to them, and she couldn’t keep the fear from her thoughts as she walked slowly up the main steps. With hesitance, she made her way through the lodge, past the curious glances of the pack members in the main room, and past Janine as she stood behind the check-in counter, to the private residence behind it. Jace, Jackson, I want to come home. **** Jace looked across the kitchen table to the pack’s doctor and the young man who had been a recent intruder on their land. Both Doc and Mitchell sat quietly before him. The young man’s face was still horribly bruised, and his left eye was still swollen shut. Just looking at the result of this boy’s beating

Laurie’s Loves

207

made Jace’s anger build. He was in the perfect mood to have a serious talk with Mitchell’s old pack leader. It had been a long time since he had talked with his fists, but it was one discussion he was looking forward to having. No alpha worth his title would ever rule his pack with violence. Jackson stood silently behind Jace, waiting to hear what Doc had to say. Despite his attempts to shut himself off from his alpha, he knew Jace could feel his anxiety. It was rolling through them both in waves that neither man was able to control. In the current state of turmoil that they both were in, neither was in any shape to calm the other. Jackson could feel Jace’s emotions tearing him apart. Jackson knew that he wasn’t physically or emotionally able to give Jace the support he would need if he lost control. Jackson’s own mental state was beyond despair. He was barely holding it together. Since Laurie’s disappearance, he could feel his control on his emotions slipping more and more as the days passed without their mate’s presence in their lives. “I’ve run quite a few tests on Mitchell, Alpha,” Doc Barrett told them, pulling them back to the situation at hand. “He appears to have a dormant gene that may or may not be activated once he finds his triad partner.” “Doc, I won’t find my triad partner,” the young man interrupted, his voice low, resigned to his fate. “You don’t know that, Mitchell,” Jace interrupted, his voice soothing, his role as alpha making him give this cub what he needed. It was his job to see to the welfare of his pack. And Mitchell was now a member of his pack. “Alpha,” Mitchell began sadly, “I know you’re trying to be supportive, but you have to know that there is something wrong with me. I don’t have a triad partner. I can’t shift. I’m a freak and bad luck.” His clear gray eyes were filled with pain as he looked at Jace. “I was wrong to come here. My dream was probably just wishful thinking that I would actually find my triad partner. I’ll be moving on as soon as I’m healed. I don’t want to bring bad luck to your pack.” “This is your pack now, Mitchell,” Jace reminded him. “You are not a freak. You are not bad luck. And you will not be leaving here.” There was no room for argument in Jace’s voice. He turned to the doctor and nodded at him. “Continue, Doc.” The doctor cleared his throat. “Yes, well,” he began hesitantly. “I have a theory that Mitchell did not have a triad partner in his old pack because he

208

Lynnette Bernard

was destined to find him in our pack. I also think that once he finds his triad partner here, once they bond, that bond will cause a spark in the dormant gene in his DNA sequencing, and he’ll be able to shift.” “Really?” Jackson finally spoke, surprised and encouraged by Doc’s words. “That’s great.” Mitchell looked at Jackson with shock on his face before he sobered and looked back down at his hands. “That’s a nice fairy tale, Doc, but it’s not gonna happen.” Jace looked at the young man. He could feel his pain. Just that fact alone made him know that Mitchell was indeed part of his pack. He wouldn’t have been able to sense his emotions otherwise. So if he was pack, it made sense that he would find his triad partner within their pack. “Mitchell, I think Doc is right,” he told him finally, his voice sure. “You were meant to be a member of our pack. It makes sense that you would find your triad partner here.” “If you think about it, it also explains why you can’t shift,” Jackson offered. “We all have known our triad partners since we were kids. We went through our first shifts together. If you didn’t have your triad partner with you, you couldn’t have your first shift. Does that make sense, Doc?” “Actually, it does,” Doc answered slowly. “I think I’d like to do more tests on some triad partners who haven’t found their mates yet. Their blood composition might show something different in its genetic makeup than what’s in Mitchell’s blood.” Getting up, Doc left the room in a hurry. Jace couldn’t stop the grin that briefly came to him as he thought of the poor, unsuspecting triad partners that would become Doc’s pincushion for a while. “I think you’ve created a monster, Jackson,” Jace said quietly. Jackson smiled a half smile, not really able to put his heart into it. “Sometimes I have my moments of brilliance,” he told him, shrugging. “Okay, Mitchell.” Jace’s voice was strong as he turned to the young man. “Now that we’ve established that you’re going to be staying with us, we need to make plans for your future.” “What do you mean?” “I want you to think about what you want to do. Think about what college you want to attend. You’re going to be a productive member of this pack, and the way to do that is to arm yourself with education.”

Laurie’s Loves

209

“Alpha, I can’t afford to go to college,” Mitchell said quietly. “I’ll do any labor you want me to do to help support this pack. I owe you my life.” “Yes, you do.” Jace’s voice was hard as he looked across at him with eyes that flashed with anger. “And you’re going to decide what you want to go to college for, and the pack will provide the tuition for you to learn your profession. And when you graduate, we will have this discussion again so we can see how you can help us with the skills you have learned.” Mitchell’s eyes grew large with surprise. Never in a million years had he ever thought or hoped to have the ability to better himself. He thought he was destined to a life of misery, to be alone and struggling for the rest of his life. “Yes, Alpha,” he finally whispered. Standing, he bowed his head in deference to both men and turned to leave the kitchen. Jackson waited until the door closed behind Mitchell before he walked around the table to take the seat Mitchell had just vacated, leaving an empty chair between him and Jace. He sat back and sighed, every bone in his body screaming with exhaustion. “You did a good job, Jace,” Jackson told him quietly. Jace nodded and looked across the table, his eyes meeting and holding Jackson’s gaze. “You look like hell,” he said finally, taking in the dark circles under his best friend’s eyes and the defeated way that he held his body. “So do you, my friend,” Jackson answered, smiling sadly. They sat in silence for a moment. Neither had words for the other. It hurt too much to try to talk. And what would they say? They missed Laurie. They loved her. They physically ached for her touch. They needed her to help them control their anger and their pain. What good would talking about it do? It wouldn’t bring her back. One day of her cell phone going to voice mail and two days of hearing a recording that her phone number was no longer in service had made them accept that she was lost to them. And the baby that she carried, their child, their future, was also lost to them. The reality of the situation hurt them beyond devastation. They would never hold Laurie in their arms again or see her smile. They would never feel the warmth of her caring and love. They would never see Laurie growing round with their child. They would be deprived of the feel their

210

Lynnette Bernard

child’s first movements within their mate’s womb, being a part of the miraculous birth of their baby, or seeing her nurse at Laurie’s breasts. They would never know the love of their daughter, hold her in their arms, or participate in the joy of helping to raise her. They would never see Laurie again. Their life had become a living hell. Jace, Jackson, I want to come home. Laurie’s soft voice came through in a blinding white light of feeling. Both men looked at each other in shock. Neither moved, unsure if their sorrow had finally made them lose their minds. “Did you hear that?” Jace asked, his voice barely above a whisper. Jackson nodded, almost afraid to speak. “I felt her, too.” Their hearts raced as the feeling of Laurie’s presence came nearer. They held their breath as they heard her soft footsteps hesitantly enter the kitchen. They turned as one to face the entrance, shock freezing them in place as they saw Laurie walk in slowly. They remained silent as she made her way around the table to step behind the empty chair that sat between them. “Hi.” Her voice was barely a whisper. Both men looked at her silently. She saw the raw pain in their eyes as they looked up at her. The dark circles under their eyes and the paleness of their skin also concerned her. She knew she was in no better shape. Turning silently and walking toward the sink, she opened a drawer and took out a sharp knife. Going back to the table, she pulled out the empty chair between them, sat down, and reached for an apple that was in the bowl on the table. “When I was a teenager, I used to visit my grandmother and grandfather. My grandmother would sit down at the table between me and my grandfather and talk to us quietly about her day. She would take an apple and peel it in one long continuous spiral strip, and my grandfather and I would watch her and smile. It always amazed us how she could do that and never break the strip.” Jace and Jackson watched silently as Laurie peeled the apple just as she said her grandmother used to. “When my grandmother finished peeling the apple, she would cut it into four pieces and cut out the core, and then she would hand two pieces to me and two pieces to my grandfather.”

Laurie’s Loves

211

Laurie did as she explained, handing two pieces to Jace and two pieces to Jackson. The men took the pieces from her without a word. “One night while my grandmother and I sat on their front porch, she told me that cutting up that apple always calmed my grandfather down after a stressful day at his job. She got into the habit of doing it every night for him. It was also her way of spoiling him and letting him know just how much he meant to her. It was her way of showing him how much she loved him.” Jace slowly brought a piece of apple to his mouth, biting it and chewing slowly. Laurie watched him with tears in her eyes as he chewed, his eyes clear as he watched her. She reached out and touched his arm gently. Turning to Jackson, she watched him do the same, and she reached out with her other hand to lightly touch his arm. The immediate feeling of peace and love that transmitted through them was louder and clearer than any words or any story could ever be. Laurie could sense the echoes of pain that lingered inside both men’s heads. Standing, she faced Jace first, feeling that his hold on his human side was more fragile. Reaching up, she carded her fingers through his hair and began a slow massage of his scalp. Even though her intent was to help him relax and feel the tenderness that he needed to keep control of his humanity, it helped ease her own pain at being away from them for so long. Jace closed his eyes and relaxed under the gentle caressing of her fingers against his temples and scalp. His breathing settled into a slow rhythm, and he found his center as Laurie’s hands led him to total and complete surrender. He looked up at her silently, unsure what to do or say, only knowing that her touch had calmed him in a way that he only was able to feel when he was with her. Laurie looked at him and smiled, knowing he was relaxing. Leaning down, she placed a gentle kiss on his forehead before stepping back and releasing her hold on him. Turning, she stepped closer to Jackson and lifted her hands to sink her fingers through the softness of his curls. The moment she made contact with him and began to massage his temples and the sides of his head, she realized with sudden fear that Jackson’s hold on humanity was nearly as fragile as Jace’s. Her heart actually hurt as she acknowledged that their pain was because of her. They had nearly lost themselves to their wolves because of her. The delicate balance between their two natures was nearly destroyed. Because of her.

212

Lynnette Bernard

“I’m so sorry,” she told them, nearly unable to speak because of the emotions that were clogging her throat. When she felt Jackson finally relax, she kissed his forehead tenderly, then lowered her hands and took a step back to face both men. There was no doubt in her mind what she needed to tell them both. She couldn’t hide anymore. She couldn’t let her fear stop her from being honest with them. They deserved the best in life. She only hoped she was the one who could give them what they needed. “I’ve missed you,” she finally whispered, looking at both of them with tears in her eyes. “I love you.” She barely got the words out when Jace bolted to his feet, sending the chair he had been sitting on flying across the room. He reached out and grabbed Laurie by the arms and pulled her into his embrace, crushing her to his chest. The noise behind them proved Jackson was a split second behind Jace’s instincts as his chair thudded against the wall and his arms encircled them both. “Mate,” Jackson whispered against the back of her neck, breathing in her scent as if only it could give him what he needed to breathe. “Where have you been?” Jace muttered against the top of her head. “We tried calling you but couldn’t get through.” “Why did you leave without telling us what was wrong?” Jackson’s voice cracked as he finally gave way to the tears he had been holding back for three days. “I told Vera to tell you I had a family emergency,” she protested against Jace’s chest. “I didn’t want to tell her what happened because I didn’t want her to know about my daughter.” “You told Vera?” Jace pushed her away from his chest to look down at her with murderous intent. “What about your daughter?” Jackson asked her, turning her to face him, concern evident in his face. “My daughter was in a car accident,” Laurie explained quickly. “I had to get to the hospital. When I got there, Mia told me that her father ran her off the road.” Both men’s immediate growls filled the kitchen. “I know. I feel the same way.” “Is Mia all right?” Jace asked, barely able to hold his anger in check.

Laurie’s Loves

213

Laurie nodded. “Yes, luckily. She’s going to be pretty sore for a while. She was pretty bruised up. But she pressed charges against Patrick, and he’s being held until bail can be raised.” Laurie hesitated, her fear making her chest hurt. “The kids and I decided to take you up on your offer for us to live here with you. If you still want us.” Laurie’s voice was quiet as she looked at both men. “I told the kids you would welcome them into your family.” Jace pushed away from her in anger, sending Laurie’s heart to her stomach. She had been wrong. They didn’t want her or her kids. “Three things, Laurie,” Jace began, trying very hard to keep his voice down. His anger flashed in his eyes, and Laurie could see the wolf within him fighting to get out. “One—your children are our children. I’ve told you that before. They will live here, and our pack will welcome them and protect them. Never question that. Two—we never got your message from Vera. Believe me, I will deal with her directly. But if you had opened your link to us immediately, we would have known what had happened and would have gone with you. You’re our mate, damn it! We belong with you. We’re here to help you and to share your life with you. That includes joys and problems. As a team, the three of us can face anything. But we can’t face a life without you in it.” His voice softened with the last sentence. “And three—if you ever, ever, leave us or close us out of your mind again, I will find you and turn you over my knee and paddle that sweet little ass of yours until you can’t sit down for a month! Am I clear?” His voice was pure alpha now. The chills at his power and his tender words of love filled Laurie’s heart near to bursting. “In case you hadn’t noticed, I don’t have a little ass,” Laurie teased, looking up at Jace with tears in her eyes. She turned and looked at Jackson, seeing his anger melt at her comment. “I’m sorry,” she whispered sincerely. “I closed myself off from you because I didn’t want to hurt you with the threat from Patrick. I thought if I left, I could protect all of you. But then I got the phone call from the police telling me about my daughter’s accident, and I ran to her without thinking about anything but getting to her. I couldn’t use my phone in the hospital, and then I had all our numbers changed so Patrick couldn’t harass us anymore.” She looked up at both men, realizing, as she told them, how inadequate her explanation was. She had hurt them. “By the time we packed

214

Lynnette Bernard

up and drove here I was afraid that you wouldn’t want us, so I kept myself closed off until I got here.” Her head lowered in defeat and shame. “I’m truly sorry.” Both men looked at her silently then looked at each other, relief evident on their faces. When they felt the emotions that reached out from Laurie until they were surrounded by her love and her sorrow, they stepped toward her as one, taking her in their arms and holding her tightly. “I think you have a perfect ass,” Jackson whispered against the side of her neck, biting down gently. Laurie laughed, sniffing her tears indelicately. She could feel Jace’s chest move against her face as he chuckled, then gasped as he bit down on her shoulder with a little more force. “We’re going to drag you up to our bedroom and claim you again,” he told her, his voice hoarse with want. “Hold that thought,” Laurie told them, laughing as she pushed out of their arms and pulled her cell phone from her pocket. Both men stepped back then sat down in two of the chairs that still stood next to the kitchen table. Jace reached out and tugged at Laurie to have her stand between his legs, pulling at her hips and drawing her toward him as she made her phone call. Leaning forward and pushing up her T-shirt, he kissed her belly gently, turning to Jackson and smiling. “Mia, where are you?” Laurie spoke into the phone, touching and petting Jace’s head as he kissed her belly and leaned his cheek against her, hugging her tightly. Jackson tugged her toward him, lifted her shirt and pulled down the waist of her jeans to place a tender kiss just below her belly button, whispering against her, then turning and winking at Jace. Laurie touched his head gently, running her fingers through his soft curls. She giggled and looked down at both men. Taking the phone away from her ear, she laughed. “What are you guys doing?” “Just welcoming our family home,” Jackson told her, his eyes sparkling as he looked up at her. Laurie laughed and put the phone back to her ear. “What, honey?” she asked. “Okay. Good. Call me when you get here. I’ll meet you outside the lodge.”

Laurie’s Loves

215

She closed her phone and stepped out of her mates’ embraces. “The kids are still on the highway. We split up to make sure we weren’t being followed. I told them to drive around for a while when they left Denver so they would lose anyone who might be following them. They should be here in about two hours. Do you think you can get some people to help us unload the cars when they get here?” Jace nodded and stood, grabbing Laurie and covering her mouth with his in one swift move, holding her against him as he tasted her, loving her with his mouth. When he pulled away and looked down at her, she was dazed and nearly limp in his arms. “Love you, Mate,” he whispered, kissing her one last time before gently placing her in Jackson’s waiting arms. He turned and walked toward the main lodge to gather his men to be ready to help when the kids arrived. Laurie smiled and looked up at Jackson. “Do you have a welcome home kiss for me, too, Jackson?” she asked quietly, looking up at him with eyes glazed with passion and filled with tears. Jackson smiled down at her and leaned in to kiss her lips gently. “What I want to do is bury myself deep inside your sweet body until you scream my name,” he told her as he slowly licked her lips before claiming them once again. Pulling back, he smiled down at her, obviously struggling to control himself. Laurie reached up and touched his cheek tenderly, smiling when he turned into her hand and nuzzled it before kissing her palm lightly and licking it. “I would like that,” she whispered. Jackson smiled and held her possessively against his chest, embracing her so tightly she could barely breathe. “Laurie, I love you with all that I am,” he whispered against the top of her head. Laurie closed her eyes, finally feeling as if everything was as it should be. Her men’s words of love were sincere and wonderful to hear. But it was the feeling of love that they surrounded her with that made her finally accept that what they felt for her was deep and lasting. She looked at Jackson and smiled, loving the softness of his eyes as he looked down at her. She would never tire of looking at him. She took a cleansing breath, allowing her worry to show.

216

Lynnette Bernard

“What’s wrong, sweetheart?” Jackson asked, reaching up to gently touch her face. “How’s Nikki?” she asked quietly, looking toward Jace as he returned to the kitchen and stood beside them. “She’s good. Getting stronger every day. But she’s not happy about being unable to get in touch with you,” Jace said sternly, looking down at her, his eyes glowing briefly with anger. “I’m sorry,” Laurie whispered, seeing the difficulty Jace was having at controlling his wolf. “I promise it won’t happen again.” She hesitated, reaching up to gently caress his face. “I need to soothe your wolf.” Jace was momentarily shocked by her understanding that the wolf within him was pacing restlessly. “And how do you plan on doing that, Mate?” he asked, his voice hoarse with emotion. Laurie looked at both men and smiled sadly. “I’m not sure if it will be enough, but I want you to go and let your wolves run for a while tonight and then come up on the deck so I can pet and hold them. Is that okay?” Both men growled at the image Laurie sent them of her kissing and hugging them in their wolf forms, petting them and loving them as she sat in the big chair that they had shared not so many nights ago. The feeling of total acceptance of their wolves and the honest joy she felt when she spent time with them in that form seeped into their hearts and lifted their souls. Both men tightened their hold on her, unable to form words at the relief and pleasure they were feeling. As she leaned back and lifted her hand to wipe the tears from her eyes, they saw that she still wore the bracelet with the charm of her with their wolves. The joy at that display of her acceptance of them made them relax against her. “That will soothe the wolf. What are you going to do to soothe the man?” Jackson asked her quietly, his voice deep with emotion and need. “If I send you a vision of what I’m going to do with you, we’ll all come right now,” she told them honestly. “Hell!” Jace whispered, reaching down to adjust his cock. “Baby, you’re killing us,” Jackson whispered, palming his own cock through his jeans and squeezing to send just enough pain to lessen his erection.

Laurie’s Loves

217

Laurie gasped and pulled both men’s hands away, covering both bulges and caressing them tenderly. “Don’t hurt yourselves,” she whispered worriedly. Both men groaned at her touch, pushing into her hands and closing their eyes as pleasure rushed through them. As she stroked their cocks, she moaned at the feel of their lengths under her hands. “I want you to go up to our room and get undressed,” she told them softly. “I’m going to go up to talk to Nikki for five minutes to let her know what happened, and then I’m going to go to our room and I’m going to love you both so good.” Before she could say another word, Jace took her hand in his and pulled her out of the kitchen and up the wide staircase, not stopping until the three of them stood before their bedroom. He reached for her then and kissed her quickly, turning her to face Jackson so he could also kiss her. He quickly pulled her from Jackson’s arms and pushed her toward the stairway. He swatted her bottom lightly and laughed when her hands quickly covered her ass, and she giggled as she ran up the stairs to Alexander and Butler’s suite. “Make it fast,” Jace growled at her before turning to open their bedroom door and striding inside, his heart suddenly light and free. Jackson could feel the happiness from both Jace and Laurie. His own joy was projected back to the two of them. As he followed Jace into their bedroom, his only thought was of how quickly they could get Laurie naked. **** True to her word, Laurie quickly told Nikki what had happened, apologizing for making her worry and explaining that she couldn’t stay because she had two men to show how much she missed them. Nikki understood, laughing as she waved her hands at Laurie to shoo her away. They would have plenty of time to catch up after Laurie showed some loving to her men. As she placed her hand on the doorknob to their room, butterflies raced in her stomach. Anticipation of their desires made her blood race. She wanted them. She wanted to caress them. She wanted to show them how much she loved them. And she did love them with every ounce of her being.

218

Lynnette Bernard

Opening the door, she stepped inside and smiled as two very handsome and naked men walked toward her. Their erections drew her attention, and she looked at them without embarrassment. Their desire and excitement was for her. And she could feel through their shared link that their desire for her was because they cared about her, loved her, and wanted her. She nearly cried at the realization. She raised her hands to stop their advancement. They stopped, silently waiting to see what she wanted. Smiling softly, she reached down and grabbed the hem of her shirt and pulled it over her head. Unbuttoning and unzipping her jeans, she pushed them to the floor, stepping out of her sneakers and kicking the jeans to the side. Standing there before them in her pink bra and panties, she smiled at the growls that rumbled from their chests. Reaching behind her, she unclasped her bra and pulled it forward to let it fall from her fingertips. Reaching up, she took her breasts in her hands and squeezed them carefully. She was especially tender lately and was careful when she rubbed her fingertips across her already peaked nipples. Both men stared at her movements as if in a trance. She smiled as she saw their cocks leaking as they watched her. She reached down and hooked her index fingers into the waistband of her panties and pushed them down her legs, carefully stepping out of them and walking toward her men. Reaching out, she took their incredibly swollen shafts into her hands and pulled up on them gently, causing both men to moan. She ran her thumbs across the heads, catching the drops of pre-cum and bringing them slowly toward her mouth, watching as both men’s eyes flashed golden when she sucked their essence into her mouth and licked her thumbs clean. Both men gasped as the sweet scent of her arousal reached them. In two seconds flat, Jace had her lifted into his arms and splayed out on their bed, his face buried in her sweet pussy, lapping at her wetness as Jackson claimed her mouth and drew her against his body, moaning at the feel of her breasts pressed against his chest. His hand skated down her body to reach her core and stroke her hard and swollen clit as Jace lapped her juices, sucking and biting her gently as his passion grew. “Baby, you’re so wet,” Jace groaned, reaching deep inside her with a gentle finger to search for her sweet spot.

Laurie’s Loves

219

Laurie mewled with pleasure as her orgasm tore through her. Jackson smiled against her mouth, his kisses growing rougher, excited beyond reason at the way she clutched his body and dug her nails into him when she exploded in ecstasy. “I need to be inside you,” Jace told her, climbing up her body and nuzzling against her neck. Laurie looked at him, her gaze sleepy as the orgasm abated. “I want you both inside me again,” she told them, reaching out to touch Jace’s face, holding Jackson against her as he kissed her slowly. “I need you both inside me to claim me again, just like you did before.” “We need to be careful,” Jace warned her quietly, thinking about the baby that was so new growing inside of her. He projected his concern to Jackson and saw that Jackson had the same worry. Laurie smiled, and her heart sang at the tenderness and care they both showed her. “You’re always careful,” she whispered, pushing at Jackson until he lay back against the mattress. “We can get more salve from Martha, and you can make me all better later,” she teased. Both men growled as their wolves fought to claim her and bond with her again. It took all of their strength to hold back to let Laurie control the mating. They would never risk causing her any pain or put their baby in any danger. Laurie straddled Jackson slowly, reaching down to take his shaft in her hand, stroking it tenderly before placing it within the engorged folds of her pussy. She lowered herself slowly down onto his incredible thickness, not stopping until he was fully and deeply imbedded inside of her. Leaning down, she kissed him, capturing his moans with her mouth. “Jace,” she whispered, looking over her shoulder at the man who looked at her with raw need. “I need you inside me. Please.” After struggling with the decision for a moment, Jace nodded, reaching for the bottle of lube that was in the drawer of the nightstand. Squeezing a generous amount onto his fingers, he reached out and inserted them into Laurie’s already stretched vagina. He couldn’t stop the growl of need that escaped him as he felt how wet she was for the both of them. He carefully soothed the lube within her velvet warmth, loving the silky feel of her. He smiled as he heard both Laurie and Jackson moan as he carefully pushed his fingers in and out, spreading the lube. Pulling his fingers out, he squeezed

220

Lynnette Bernard

some more lube onto his hand and reached for his cock, greasing it from base to tip, moaning at the feel of his hand moving across his sensitive length until he was at the mushroom head. Between the lube and the precum that dripped from him, he should be able to get inside Laurie’s glorious pussy without too much difficulty. Taking hold of his shaft, he carefully guided himself into Laurie alongside Jackson’s shaft. It took a few strokes in and out until Laurie’s body opened to accommodate the both of them. When his entire length was settled inside of their mate, he stilled, his heart pounding. He was experiencing such complete peace and happiness that he couldn’t stop himself from projecting his feelings to both of his triad mates. The love and happiness that they projected back to him through their bond made tears come to his eyes. “Please, somebody move.” Laurie’s voice was strained as she finally spoke. Jace smiled and began a slow pull out of Laurie’s sweet passage, Jackson’s cock sliding out with his. Jackson pushed in deeper, lifting his body to get as deep as possible with each plunge into their mate’s sweet body. Jace’s movement matched Jackson’s as he pushed back into Laurie slowly, groaning at the tightness and the warmth that their mate’s body held for them. Their rhythm was slow and gentle. The sounds of their lovemaking echoed in the silence of the room. It was only a matter of moments until all sane thought was gone as they were swept up in the intensity of their joining. As their climax neared, both Jace and Jackson’s incisors lengthened, and they found the spot where they had already marked Laurie’s shoulders with their mating marks and bit down, drawing in her blood and coming deep inside her at the same time. Laurie’s scream of pleasure heightened their own, and their bodies spurted stream after stream of seed deep within her. They gasped as Laurie’s body gripped and squeezed their oversensitized shafts as her orgasm rippled through her. Their cocks knotted deep inside Laurie, and both men sighed with contentment at the connection to their mate. Not moving, both men held her tightly between them, unable to release their hold on her. Now that she had come back, they were never letting her go.

Laurie’s Loves

221

“That was wonderful,” Laurie whispered, smiling against Jackson’s chest. “Yes, it was,” Jace’s deep voice made her shiver as he kissed the back of her neck gently. “Are you okay, honey?” Jackson asked her, projecting his concern for her to Jace. “I’m great,” she told them, laughing quietly. “Just really tired.” Jace lifted his head and met Jackson’s smiling eyes knowingly. Our baby is making her tired. His voice whispered in Jackson’s head. Jackson nodded and blinked away the tears of happiness that came to his eyes. “Just rest, darlin’,” Jace told her finally. “We’ll take care of you.” “K,” Laurie whispered, drifting off immediately. Once their mating knots released, Jace carefully pulled out of the warmth of their mate. He lifted her off of Jackson and gently laid her next to his triad partner. Jackson smiled down at her sleeping form, reaching out to touch her face lightly as Jace went to the bathroom to get a warm cloth to clean their mate. When he returned to the bed, he handed Jackson a warm cloth to clean himself, then slowly parted Laurie’s legs and tenderly wiped away their combined seed. The possessive feelings that slammed through his body were sent back to him from Jackson. Taking turns, they licked her sensitive tissues, allowing the healing properties of their saliva to heal whatever soreness they had caused. Together, they gently applied the soothing salve into Laurie’s sweet pussy, carefully pushing the ointment into her welcoming channel and over her swollen lips. She remained asleep through their entire ministrations, and they were glad that she was finally resting. Pulling the covers over the three of them, Jace lay next to Laurie and reached out slowly to tenderly cover her abdomen with his large hand. He smiled when he felt Jackson’s hand next to his. They would sleep for just a little while, content and happy for the first time in three days. Laurie was finally home. To stay. And their baby was growing peacefully within her welcoming womb. ****

222

Lynnette Bernard

Laurie’s phone woke them. Jace stumbled from the bed to pull it from Laurie’s jeans that were still on the floor by the door. Grabbing it quickly, he climbed back onto the bed and handed it to Laurie, who took it and opened it quickly. “Mia?” she asked, her voice rough with sleep. “Where are you?” Jace nuzzled against her neck, his hand resting possessively on her breast, loving the feel of her taut nipple under the palm of his hand. He remained still as she spoke on the phone, enjoying the closeness of her. “Okay, honey, I’ll be out front waiting for you.” She closed the phone and smiled at the men who were looking at her so calmly. Reaching out and touching their faces gently, she couldn’t help but blush as she remembered what they had just done. “So are the men soothed?” she asked quietly. Jackson laughed and leaned down to kiss her lips gently. “Yes, baby,” he whispered against her lips, kissing her once more before leaning back so Jace could kiss her as well. “How are you feeling?” Jace asked her, his concern evident on his face. “I’m good,” she whispered, stretching and arching her back as total satisfaction raced through her body. “I’m not really sore, just tired.” “We took care of you while you were sleeping,” Jackson told her, reaching down to gently cup her mound and pet her carefully. “You did?” Jace nodded and nuzzled his face against her neck. “We used the healing salve Martha gave us after we licked your sweet pussy,” he told her. Laurie’s intake of breath caused both men to pull back and look down at her. What they saw surprised them. There were tears in her eyes as she looked up at them. “Baby?” Jackson asked her carefully. “What’s wrong?” Laurie couldn’t even speak. Their concern for her was overwhelming. The fact that they had taken care of her while she was sleeping proved how much they truly did care about her. She didn’t feel uncomfortable with their treatment of her while she was asleep. She felt cherished, protected, and loved. Unable to put into words how much their care meant to her, she opened her heart to them through their link and surrounded them in warmth and love

Laurie’s Loves

223

so deep they looked down at her with awe and happiness. They couldn’t help but return the feeling, and Laurie felt bathed in their love. “The kids will be here in about twenty minutes,” she told them lazily, stroking her hands down their backs as she held them in her arms. Jace pulled out of her embrace, kissing her sweetly before leaving the bed. “I’ll make sure our pack is ready to meet us outside to help unload the cars.” Jackson left her side, kissing her quickly before going to the doorway to retrieve Laurie’s clothes. He walked back toward her, extending his hand to offer them to her. Laurie smiled and watched Jace’s hot ass as he walked toward his clothes. Jackson’s equally hot ass turned, and she saw his erect cock standing proudly as he faced her. A man had no right to look that good. Jace turned back toward her and smiled. Jackson chuckled quietly, and he winked at her. She blushed deeply when she realized that she had let them hear her thoughts. “God, this is so embarrassing,” Laurie muttered, pulling the sheet over her head. She felt the bed dip with the weight of her men as they climbed up beside her. She felt her hands being covered as the sheet was drawn down, and she looked up to face two very handsome and happy faces. “We feel the same way about you, Laurie,” Jace told her, his voice deep with emotion, kissing her nose lightly before getting off the bed. He dressed quickly and walked toward the bedroom door. “I’ll be in the front of the lodge with the pack. Come down when you’re ready.” He opened the door, turning to wink at her before leaving and closing the door behind him. Laurie turned to face Jackson. He was smiling down at her, his eyes sparkling with happiness. “I’ll help you get dressed,” he told her as he helped her get out of bed. “I can dress myself, Jackson,” she told him, exasperated. “Now what fun is that?” he teased, reaching out to cover her left breast with his hand and caress it lovingly. Laurie laughed and reached for her clothes, laying them on the bed and reaching out to pick up her underwear. Despite her determination to dress herself, she had to admit that she enjoyed Jackson’s help. She especially enjoyed the kisses he lavished on her body before he covered her with the

224

Lynnette Bernard

articles of clothing. Once they were both dressed, Laurie made a quick stop in the bathroom and walked out to step into Jackson’s waiting arms. Jackson smiled and pulled her toward the doorway. “Come on, baby,” he told her, laughing. “Our kids are waiting for us to help them.” Laurie’s eyes filled with tears at his easy acceptance that her children belonged to them, too. She pulled at his hand to stop him, and he turned to face her with confusion. “Laurie?” “Our kids?” she whispered. His face softened with understanding. “Yes, our kids,” he told her sincerely. “Your children belong to me and Jace now. Are you okay with that?” Laurie nodded and reached to wrap her arms around his waist. “You have no idea how much I wish they really were your babies,” she whispered against his chest. Jackson reached up and stroked the back of her head gently, his heart pounding with love at her words. “Would you have liked it if Jace and my babies were growing inside of you?” It was as close as he could get to finding out if she might be accepting of her pregnancy. “Do you mean if I would like it if Mia and Dean came from you and Jace?” she asked, looking up at him in confusion. Jackson nodded, waiting patiently, but inside his brain was running wild with the thoughts of Laurie in her final stages of pregnancy. Pure joy rushed through him at the vision of her standing before him, her belly filled with their child. Picturing the way he and Jace held her between them, laying their hands on her swollen stomach to feel their baby moving, made him feel deeply happy and content. He knew that Laurie had seen his vision when she gasped and looked up at him in surprise. There were tears in her eyes when she looked up at him. “That was a beautiful vision, Jackson. Thank you.” Jackson smiled down at her, not speaking. “I wish it were true. I wish you both helped me to make my children. You would have loved them and protected them as they deserved. It wasn’t right that they had to grow up thinking they weren’t good enough for their father.” She pulled away from him then, sorrow surrounding her as she walked away from him and made her way to the front of the lodge. Jackson

Laurie’s Loves

225

hesitated a moment, knowing only time would help Laurie and her children, their children, know that they belonged with the pack and would be cherished and loved. And so would the baby she was carrying and the babies she would be carrying. There was a definite jaunty spring to his step as he followed their mate outside. The thought of her being pregnant, getting pregnant again, and he and Jace getting her pregnant made him deliriously happy. And horny.

226

Lynnette Bernard

Chapter 21 Laurie stood on the front steps of the main lodge, barely containing her nervousness as she watched her son’s car pull into the long driveway that led to the ranch entrance. Jace stood to her right, and Jackson walked over and stood to her left, waiting beside her. Jackson smiled over at Jace as he watched Laurie twist her hands nervously. Look how cute our mate is when she’s nervous, Jace. “Shush!” Laurie whispered, elbowing him quickly before she made her way down the stairs to stand at the bottom to wait for Dean’s car to come to a complete stop before her. Jace laughed and looked at Jackson. She heard you. Jackson nodded, winking at Laurie as she turned around and glared at them both. “Stop teasing,” she whispered, “and come here please.” “Yes, ma’am,” Jace drawled, stepping down to stand beside her, joy filling him that she was open to their thoughts and feelings again. He watched as the car came to a halt and the engine was turned off. The driver’s side door opened, and a young man stepped out, walking around the front of the car to kiss Laurie’s cheek quickly before continuing around to open the passenger side door and reach in to help a young girl out. Jace looked at Jackson, and he saw the same concern in his face as they watched the young girl accept the young man’s help. He pulled her carefully and slowly out of the car. Once she was standing a moment and had achieved her footing, the young man stepped away and waited until she was clear of the car before shutting the door behind her. Laurie went to the girl immediately and carefully embraced her. “How are you feeling, Mia?” she asked worriedly. “I’m okay,” Mia answered quickly. “Just stiff from sitting in the car for so long. I’ll be fine once I move around.”

Laurie’s Loves

227

Laurie took Mia’s hand in hers as she led them to the steps of the lodge, reaching out to take hold of Dean’s hand as they stood before Jace and Jackson. “Jace, Jackson, this is my daughter Mia and my son Dean,” Laurie introduced them proudly. Looking at the three of them as they stood before him, Jace felt everything settle into place. Both children looked like their mother. He could feel the goodness in them. He could scent their honesty and caring. And, if he was not mistaken, a bit of hostility, too. I feel it, too, Jace. Jackson was careful not to project his thoughts to Laurie. “Welcome to the Circle Three Ranch,” Jace greeted them. “And welcome to the family.” He reached out and offered his hand first to Mia and then to Dean, smiling inside when he saw their hesitance at accepting it, and feeling the rightness of it when they finally did. Jackson offered his hand and waited for them to do the same with him. Both children stepped back, and Dean assumed a pose that showed both men that he was not a pushover. Crossing his arms across his broad chest, his biceps bulging as he fought to control his anger, he looked both men up and down. “Just so you know,” Mia began, stepping forward, her eyes firing with a warning as she looked both men over with a seriousness that would make any alpha proud. “We’ll give you both a chance because we love our mother. But if you disrespect her in any way, or if you hurt her, there won’t be a place in this world that you’ll be able to hide from us. We’ll hunt you down and make sure you never hurt another living soul again.” Dean took a step forward to shield both his sister and his mother from both men. “You don’t want to mess with us,” he told them quietly. “No one is ever going to cause one moment of pain in our mother’s life again.” As much as Laurie was stunned by her children’s comments, she was proud that they were strong enough to face Jace and Jackson without hesitation. She remained silent, waiting for her mates’ reactions. She hoped they would respect the strength of character that her children showed. She was so proud of them for protecting her. But she really didn’t need it. Not with these men.

228

Lynnette Bernard

“Since you want to talk about this out here, right now, we’ll accommodate you.” Jace nodded to both Mia and Dean. “Your mother is our mate. We couldn’t hurt her. We cherish her. And you don’t have to worry about having to deal with us if we mess up. I’m sure your mother won’t let us get away with anything. And that’s just the way we want it.” “Our lives are complete now that she’s here with us,” Jackson finally spoke up. “And we’re glad you’ll both be staying here as part of our family.” “If you have a problem with us, or with your life here, we expect you to come and talk to us about it,” Jace added, his tone sure, his authority evident. “We work together for the good of everyone, and we expect any issues to be brought forward immediately.” He waited silently as both kids looked them over, then turned to each other and came to an unspoken agreement. Nodding, they turned as one and faced the two men who professed to care about their mother. “Okay,” Mia answered seriously, speaking for them both. Reaching out to hold onto Dean’s arm, she finally gave in to her exhaustion. “I really need to lie down.” “Let me help you,” a voice from the top step spoke up. Mitchell came down the steps quickly, reaching out to take Mia’s elbow and hold her hand as he turned to face Dean. “She looks pretty banged up,” he said quietly. Dean’s shocked expression as he looked at Mitchell’s bruises was hard to mask. “Dude!” he said in horror. “Who messed you up?” Turning, he faced Jace and Jackson accusingly. “Is this how you treat members of your family?” Before Jace or Jackson could protest, Mitchell reached out and touched Dean’s shoulder with his free hand. “No, they didn’t do this to me,” he told him honestly. “I used to live with another pack, and they did this to me. Jace and Jackson have taken me in and have been great. I like living here with this family. They’re awesome.” “Really?” Dean asked as they helped Mia up the stairs. “Yeah, they’ve been great to me,” Mitchell told him quietly. “I don’t know what would have happened to me if they hadn’t allowed me to stay. I was in pretty bad shape.”

Laurie’s Loves

229

Dean looked at Mitchell with evaluating eyes. He would reserve judgment on Jace and Jackson. And he would keep an eye on Mitchell just to make sure no one else caused him any more harm. He never could tolerate bullies. He had been bullied by his own father his entire life, and he wouldn’t let anyone else suffer the same fate if he could help it. “Come on, Mia,” Dean said finally, “Let’s get inside so you can sit down and rest.” Mia stopped on the top step and took a steadying breath. The look she gave Dean and Mitchell was a combination of annoyance and exhaustion. “I’m fine,” she told them, pulling out of Mitchell’s and her brother’s careful holds. Mitchell stepped back immediately. “I’m sorry,” he whispered, looking down at his feet, unsure. “Don’t be,” Dean told him, touching his shoulder and smiling. “You have to know my sister. She’s a force to be reckoned with.” Mitchell looked up and saw that Dean wasn’t angry with him. He smiled back at him, relieved. “Do you want help unloading your car?” he offered. “That would be great,” Dean told him, turning to run back down the stairs. “Okay, Mom, where should be put all our crap?” Laurie laughed and stepped forward to open her car and reach in to take the first load of belongings from the trunk. Jace was by her side immediately. He was not going to allow his mate to carry one thing from the cars. Her job would be to direct them where she wanted everything. “Bring everything up to the second floor into our private quarters. They can have my old room and Jace’s old room,” Jackson spoke up as more of their pack members descended the stairs to help with the unloading. “We’ll get everyone something to eat, and then we’ll tackle sorting out their things.” Laurie stepped back and smiled, watching as the members of their pack, their new family, quickly unloaded the cars and carried their meager belongings into the lodge. With so many people helping, it took no time at all before everyone was inside and seated at the kitchen table with Martha fussing over them. Laurie was happy to see her and all but melted in her arms as the older woman embraced her. “I’m so happy you’re home, Laurie,” Martha whispered against her face. “My boys were beside themselves with worry while you were gone.”

230

Lynnette Bernard

“I’m sorry, Martha,” Laurie whispered back. “I told Vera to tell them that I had a family emergency. I don’t know why she didn’t.” Martha stepped back and crossed her arms as anger consumed her. “I do,” she spat out. “That jealous old biddy!” “What do you mean?” Laurie asked, confused. “Why would she be jealous of me?” “Because she wants her daughter to be mated to your men, that’s why,” Martha answered curtly. “I’ll deal with her later, Martha,” Jace told her as he came up behind Laurie and pulled her back into his arms, covering her belly with his hand as he held her to him. “Let’s get something to eat, get everyone settled, and get some sleep. It’s late, and I know you have to be exhausted,” he whispered against Laurie’s neck, kissing it lightly and breathing her scent in deeply. “I am pretty tired,” Laurie admitted, melting against the strength behind her. “I guess these last few days have really taken their toll on me. I can barely keep my eyes open lately.” Martha smiled at her then looked up at Jace. He shook his head just once, letting her know not to say anything. He knew Martha could tell there was a change in Laurie’s scent. She had been around enough pregnant pack members to pick up on the subtle change and know that Laurie was pregnant. Martha turned away quickly so Laurie wouldn’t see her tears of happiness. Bless the Fates! Not only were there two new children to add to their family, but there was going to be a cub born to Jace and Jackson. Laurie would soon know that she was pregnant, and Martha prayed she would be happy. A squeal of delight came from the kitchen entrance, turning all attention to Nikki as she rushed toward Mia and Dean with her arms spread open. Both kids went to her immediately and let her hug and kiss and fuss over them. “Hi, Aunt Nikki. It’s good to see you, too,” Dean greeted her, laughing as he embraced her and kissed her cheek lightly. The growls from the two men behind her were immediate. Nikki shushed them impatiently and waved her hand back at them, effectively dismissing their jealousy. “Stop it!” she told them quickly, turning to gently take Mia into her embrace. “Hey, honey, are you okay?”

Laurie’s Loves

231

Mia leaned against Nikki, wrapping her arms around her waist and hugging her lightly. “I’m sore but getting better,” Mia told her quietly. “He’s hurt us for the last time, Aunt Nikki.” Nikki nodded and kissed the top of Mia’s head, running her hand gently down the soft brown tresses of her hair. “Damn straight,” she said angrily. “I’m proud of you, honey. You did the right thing by pressing charges.” Mia nodded silently, allowing Nikki to soothe her briefly before carefully stepping out of her embrace to look toward her mother as she stood next to the two men who seemed to really care for her. She hoped with all her heart that her mother had finally found the love and caring that she deserved. Laurie looked at her daughter with obvious love in her eyes. She was so proud of her. She was proud of both of her children. They had survived a life of abuse and poverty with her, yet they had remained kind, loving, and supportive people. She couldn’t help the tears that filled her eyes. Jace and Jackson’s thoughts of love and caring surrounded her, making her feel protected and, for the first time in her life, cherished. She was grateful for the emotions they sent to her through their bond. She turned to smile at both of them, sending them the warmth of her appreciation and smiling when she saw their eyes flare with happiness and need at the feel of her sharing with them. Mate, I think you need to eat and rest while we visit with the pack. Jace’s voice was warm and caring in her head. She smiled and reached out to hold his hand, loving that he immediately entwined their fingers as he led her to the table and pulled out a chair for her to sit. He immediately sat beside her at the head of the table. “Martha, sit and relax. We’ll order take out,” he told her before she could fuss about making dinner. “I could go for a pizza,” Laurie spoke up, looking at Jace with longing. Jackson chuckled and reached down to touch Laurie’s cheek gently. “Pizza it is,” he said quietly, his eyes sparkling with pleasure as he looked down at her. Without hesitation, he leaned down and kissed her tenderly, lightly licking her lips before giving her one more kiss. He turned to Jace and couldn’t stop the grin that spread across his face. And so the pregnancy cravings begin. Jackson’s voice held humor, but much more.

232

Lynnette Bernard

Jace smiled and nodded. He couldn’t help the surge of happiness that he felt, knowing that the baby growing inside their mate was already making its presence known.

Laurie’s Loves

233

Chapter 22 Sitting on the oversized lounge chair on the back deck, Laurie sighed contentedly. Everyone was finally settled in for the night. The kids were safely tucked away in their new rooms. Both were tired and a little unsure, but Laurie knew they would soon feel welcomed and a part of Jace and Jackson’s pack. She was happy to see that Dean was already becoming fast friends with Mitchell and knew her son would be just what the young man needed to help him get over his insecurity of being new to the pack. Dean would be good for Mitchell. He would make sure that the abused man would be looked out for. It was Dean’s way. Martha had fussed over both her children, and Laurie knew the woman was sincere in her welcome and immediate acceptance of them. Despite Mia and Dean’s wariness, she could tell that they were already warming to their new family. Little Tammy had already stolen their hearts. Julia had made Mia laugh, and Laurie could never thank her enough for helping her daughter see humor again. Mia had set herself up as protector as far back as Laurie could remember. It was about time her daughter could enjoy herself and not worry so much. Shadows emerging from the tree line surrounding the ranch drew Laurie’s attention. Her heart sped up at the sight of the two beautiful wolves walking toward her, their steps quick and sure. No matter how many times she saw them in their wolf form, it still sent a thrill of wonder through her. If someone would have asked her just two weeks ago if she could ever believe in the possibility of wolf shifters, she would have thought them certifiable. Yet here she was, waiting with anticipation for the two wolves to reach her, wanting to welcome them into her embrace and hold them. She settled back against the lounge chair and smiled as the wolves stepped up onto the deck, coming to stand on either side of her chair,

234

Lynnette Bernard

waiting patiently. Laurie patted the spots on either side of her then held her arms out wide to the beautiful wolves. “Come up here,” she told them quietly, her voice soft with wonderment. Both wolves climbed up onto the chair and settled on their haunches, waiting. Laurie smiled and reached out to stroke their heads, running her hands slowly down the softness of their pelts. “You’re beautiful,” she told them, her voice barely above a whisper. “I still can’t believe the magic of you both.” She leaned forward and nuzzled against their faces, drawing them toward her until they were both resting their heads on her shoulders and their bodies lay flush against her sides. She reveled in the feel of their weight against her and sighed contentedly. “I love holding you against me,” she told them honestly, absently petting them as she spoke. The soft rumble of their contented growls made her smile, and she hugged them to her tightly for a minute before resuming her petting. She loved their strength and felt warm and protected as they lay against her. “Can you understand me when you’re in your wolf form?” She looked down at them, waiting patiently for them to somehow answer her. “Can you talk to me through our bond?” Yes, sweetheart. Jace’s deep voice echoed soothingly in her mind. When you pet us like this, it’s difficult to think of anything but your touch. Laurie smiled and scratched his head behind his ears, laughing out loud at his satisfied rumblings. The same sounds escaped Jackson as he received the same scratch. “You guys are so easy,” she told them. They settled back in the lounge, content to sit quietly and listen to the soothing sounds of the night. Jackson moved slightly and nuzzled his nose against Laurie’s neck, licking her slowly, making her giggle at the touch of his soft tongue. Closing her eyes, Laurie settled into the warmth of the wolves’ bodies and found herself dozing off. In the darkness of the back deck, the two wolves transformed into men and embraced their sleeping mate. They cuddled her into their arms and held her tightly against them, loving the way she immediately reached out to hold their arms tightly against her chest. “She’s so tired,” Jackson whispered, ghosting his hand across Laurie’s forehead to gently caress her cheek, leaning forward to kiss her softly.

Laurie’s Loves

235

Jace smiled and settled his hand on Laurie’s belly, caressing it lightly, his chest squeezing tightly at the total joy he felt as he touched her, knowing the wonderful secret within her. “We have to make sure she rests as much as she can,” he said quietly. Jackson nodded and smiled. “Do you think she’ll be okay with this, Jace?” he asked, his voice conveying his worry. Jace was quiet for a very long time. Jackson began to worry that he didn’t want to answer because he felt the same fear that Laurie would not be happy to know that she was pregnant. “I don’t think her reaction will be based on her want of our baby,” Jace said finally. “I think she’ll be more afraid to be alone to have the baby.” He turned to Jackson, his eyes hard with determination. “We’ll just have to show her that we’ll be with her every step of the way.” Jackson nodded, reaching out to touch Laurie’s hand and bring it to his chest. “That’s going to be easy.” He kissed her knuckles softly before returning her hand to her lap. “I want to touch her all the time. I can’t even imagine how much more possessive I’m going to be when she starts showing. And forget about when the baby is born.” Jackson chuckled low in his chest. “I’ll want to hold and love that cub forever.” Jace smiled. “Me, too,” he whispered. Laurie turned into Jace’s arms, snuggling against his chest and tucking her head under his chin. “Jace,” she whispered, leaning in and kissing his neck gently. “I’ve got you, baby,” Jace whispered as he pulled her tighter into his embrace. Laurie sighed softly, settling in and relaxing against him. “Jackson?” Her voice held confusion, and she moved restlessly. Jackson moved closer to her and embraced her from behind, settling his hands firmly around her waist and holding her tightly. As Laurie settled back against him and rested comfortably between the warmth of their bodies, he could feel her body relaxing and giving herself to them both, knowing they would take care of her as she slept. Now all they needed to get her to accept was that they would be there for her for the rest of their lives. “I think she’ll finally accept that we’ll always be there for her and our babies by the time we get to the third pregnancy,” Jackson said softly, laughing against the back of their mate’s neck.

236

Lynnette Bernard

**** Laurie stretched slowly, opening her eyes to see that both of her men were watching her silently. Their eyes were smiling, and they held her gently between them. She blushed profusely when she realized that she had fallen asleep on them. “Why are you blushing?” Jace asked her softly, leaning forward to taste her lips with a gentle kiss. “I’m sorry I fell asleep,” she apologized, her voice soft with sleep. Her face was adorable as she looked up at both of the men. Jackson reached up and tugged on the silky strand of hair that rested lightly across her breasts. “You sleep as much as you want, honey,” he told her sweetly. “Your body must need the rest. We want you to take care of yourself.” Laurie smiled and pushed her hair from her face, rubbing her eyes in an attempt to wake herself up. “At least I have a few more weeks to rest before I have to go back to school.” Jace looked at Jackson in concern. Neither man had thought about the possibility of Laurie leaving to go back to work at the beginning of the school year. They wanted to support her decision, but they feared for her safety. Being mated to him and Jackson would put her in a position of power that would open her up to attacks from other packs. And they still had to deal with the prophecy that Martha had told them about, leaving her vulnerable within the pack as well. He could feel the concern and worry emanating from Jackson and did his best to shield Laurie from it. Reaching out, he touched Jackson’s shoulder in support. He had to settle himself. We will deal with this. Jace’s voice echoed in Jackson’s head alone. Don’t worry. I don’t know if I’ll be able to be parted from her, Jace. I know. Me, too. But we don’t have to worry about it yet. She has to find out about the baby first. And we’ll be there to support her in whatever she decides. But we can tell her how much we’ll miss her. That won’t be suffocating, will it? We’ll see, Jackson. I have a feeling that it will all work out.

Laurie’s Loves

237

Laurie scooted down off the front of the lounge chair to turn and stand before them. She smiled at them and winked. “You look awesome, sitting there all naked and gorgeous.” Both men smiled, crossing their arms across their chests and looking at her with unbridled lust. Laurie backed up until she was at the edge of the steps. The men rose and faced her silently. Waiting. With each step she took, they took one step toward her, their wolves fighting for release as they stalked her. “I want you to give me five minutes. Then you need to shift and see if you can catch me.” Before the men had a chance to answer, Laurie turned and ran down the steps, laughing as she raced across the open expanse of the field. The men shifted immediately, sparkling blue light surrounding them as their wolf forms took possession of them. They paced restlessly, anxious to run after their mate. The five minutes they waited served to heighten their excitement. It seemed like it took forever before Jace finally leaped from the deck, Jackson close on his heels, in search of their mate. Is she amazing or what! Jace chuffed in agreement. Jackson certainly had that right. Their mate was amazing. She was just what they needed. And she was exactly what their wolves needed, too. Her sweet scent was easy to pick up, and they raced to follow her. Having the five minute head start had certainly given her somewhat of an advantage, but their wolves’ powerful bodies ate up the distance between them quickly. When they reached the lake at the edge of the clearing, both wolves skidded to a halt, unsure where their mate was. Her scent was masked by the water. There was a shimmer of blue, and the two men walked toward the pile of clothing that sat at the edge of the lake. They looked across the rippling water, breathing in deeply to find their mate’s scent. “Laurie, where are you?” Jace called out into the darkness of the night. It was quiet except for the sounds of the night animals. After a few moments, Jace began to worry. He looked at Jackson, panic nearly overtaking him. The half moon sent a subtle light over the water and the

238

Lynnette Bernard

surrounding area. The men’s superior vision helped them to see the lake, but they still couldn’t see their mate. There was a rush of water as Laurie’s body burst up through the lake’s surface until she stood before them, gloriously naked. She laughed as she dipped backward to smooth her hair back from her face, the action causing her to arch her breasts up and expose them to the cool night air. Both men growled and ran toward the water, their bodies cleanly slicing through the seasonably warm liquid as they dove into the water. They raced toward her, their powerful strokes quickly eating up the distance, finally diving deep beneath the surface to come up on either side of her, engulfing her in their embrace. Laurie laughed and reached out to hold both men to her, her laughter gently dying away as she leaned in to kiss them both lazily. “Hi,” she whispered against Jackson’s mouth before turning to Jace and reaching up to touch his face gently. “It took you long enough.” Jace laughed and pulled her into his arms, growling at the feel of her naked breasts against his chest. He had never felt so free, so happy, and so content. This woman had come to mean more to him than he could have ever thought possible. Jackson came up behind her and kissed her shoulder gently, slowly biting down on his mating mark. “I love you, Mate,” he whispered, kissing her neck tenderly. Laurie leaned back against him, moaning softly as Jackson’s hands smoothed over her body to gently caress her breasts. He lifted them carefully, offering them to Jace, who leaned forward to take a pebbled nipple between his lips and draw her soft breast deeper into his mouth. Laurie reached up to wrap one arm around Jackson’s neck while her other hand held the back of Jace’s head to her as he made love to her breast. Every moment of pain and loneliness in her life seemed to melt away under the tender love of these two men. She sent a silent prayer of thanks to the Fates who had destined them to find each other, as Jace had told her repeatedly. “I love you both so much,” she moaned, unable to keep her emotions in. “Please, I need you.” The men moved as one, lifting her legs to wrap around Jace’s waist, while Jackson moved to get closer. She could feel their erections bumping

Laurie’s Loves

239

against her body, and she grabbed onto them as a burning need flashed through her. Both men’s groans filled the silence as she pulled them toward her. Jackson eased away from her, taking his cock from her hold. “No, Laurie,” he told her softly. “I can’t take the chance of hurting you.” Laurie looked at him with nothing short of adoration in her eyes. “You won’t hurt me,” she insisted. “Yes,” he insisted. “I will. Unless we’re in our room and we can prepare you with lube, there is no way I’m going to take the chance of causing you pain. Especially now.” Laurie’s brow furrowed in confusion. “Especially now?” Jace chose that moment to slide inside her, causing all lucid thoughts to escape her. She moaned as his thick cock filled her completely. Leaning back against Jackson, she held onto him tightly as Jace began to pump into her, causing her breasts to bounce gently in the buoyancy of the water. Jackson growled at the sight of her luscious breasts on display for him. He could gladly watch her naked form forever. Each movement she made served to heighten his arousal. She moaned Jace’s name, and he leaned forward to capture her mouth, his tongue mimicking the movements of his cock plunging in and taking what was his. Jackson reached down and gently placed his hand between her legs, slowly rubbing her clit, ramping up her excitement as Jace sped up with thrusts that increased in depth and force. They could feel the orgasm building in her. Her body tightened, and her back bowed as Jace thrust into her, stilling when his release slammed through him. He leaned forward, opening his mouth as his incisors lengthened, and bit down on his mating mark, drawing in the sweet taste of her blood as her own orgasm blinded her. She screamed his name as she came, loving the feel of his cock pulsing spurt after spurt of seed deep within her body, knotting deliciously and joining them together securely. When at last they lay against each other, breathing heavily, she lifted her head and looked into the sparkling blue of Jace’s eyes. “I love you, Jace,” she whispered before he took her lips in a tender kiss and pulled her from Jackson’s arms to hold her gently against his body. “You are my life,” Jace whispered against the side of her face, kissing her temple softly.

240

Lynnette Bernard

Laurie leaned back and cradled his face in her hands, her eyes filled with tears. “I don’t know what I ever did to deserve finding you and Jackson, but I’m so grateful that I did,” she whispered, leaning forward to tenderly kiss his lips. She felt Jackson against her back and reached for him. Turning slightly, she saw that there were tears in his eyes as he looked at her. She moaned quietly as the mating knot released, and Jace’s cock slowly slipped from her body. She turned and lovingly opened her arms to Jackson, reaching out to him. He slid her carefully from Jace’s arms and turned her to hold her to him tightly. “We’re the ones who have been blessed, Laurie,” he whispered in her ear. “You’ve brought us so much love and happiness. We never thought we would ever find our triad mate. You’re more than we could have ever hoped for.” He kissed her then. It was so exquisitely tender that Laurie couldn’t prevent the tears that filled her eyes. Reaching down, she took gentle hold of his straining shaft and guided it to the opening of her body, moaning as he entered her fully in one long push. “So good,” she whispered. Jackson looked down at the woman he loved with all his heart and smiled at the way she accepted and enjoyed him. Pulling out until just the head of his cock remained inside her, he pushed back into her sweet warmth. Jace held her against his chest, supporting and petting her body as Jackson pumped into her with deep, careful thrusts. He smiled at the care Jackson was taking with their pregnant mate. He placed his hand on Laurie’s belly, feeling the connection to their child immediately. His heart swelled with love for their little one. They were truly blessed with this beautiful gift that Laurie was giving them. Laurie’s moans made him smile. She was an unbelievable lover who was the perfect fit for them both. He kissed his mating mark gently, reaching down to search for the bundle of nerves that would send her flying. Jackson’s thrusts grew erratic, and he knew his triad partner was close to completion. They were both determined to make Laurie enjoy every moment of lovemaking with them. He rubbed her clit roughly as he saw Jackson lean forward and bite her shoulder, claiming her once again and sending Laurie over the edge as he stilled and emptied his seed within her.

Laurie’s Loves

241

His cock swelled, and the mating knot held them together, joined in intimacy and love. “Love you, Jackson,” Laurie whispered against his shoulder as he held her. “Love you, baby,” Jackson whispered, kissing the top of her head tenderly, his heart overflowing with emotion. They lay in each other’s arms, allowing the water to support their bodies as they recovered. Laurie wondered if it would always be this way. She hoped so. “You guys are going to have to carry me home,” she whispered as she lay against both men in the warm water. “I’m so tired, I can barely move.” Jace looked at Jackson and smiled, knowing the secret that slept so safely within Laurie’s body was part of the reason for her tiredness. “Don’t worry, sweetheart,” Jace told her quietly. “You go on and get some rest. We’ll carry you home and tuck you into our bed.” Laurie sighed and smiled, closing her eyes tiredly. “Okay,” she whispered. “You both have filled me up with love.” “Baby, we’ve filled you with more than that,” Jackson whispered against her mouth as he kissed her tenderly. But she didn’t hear him. She was already asleep.

242

Lynnette Bernard

Chapter 23 Laurie stood silently before the lake, looking across its serene stillness as her mind raced with thoughts of the night before. She smiled, unable to keep the happiness at bay. She never in her life had ever hoped to find such love and tenderness as she found with Jace and Jackson. And the sex! Man! Earth shattering would be putting it mildly. They make me want to do things with them that I’ve never in my entire life desired to do, let alone knew how to do! I can hear you, Laurie. Jackson’s voice entered her thoughts. She jumped slightly, blushing immediately. His laughter warmed her, but embarrassed her nevertheless. Stay out of my head, Jackson! Her voice was stern, but she couldn’t keep the laughter or her embarrassment from his knowing presence. Baby, you’re the one who is showing me your thoughts. And I have to say, I love every minute of it. I think Jace and I need to take you up to our bedroom and make you scream as you come. Jackson! Laurie’s voice admonished him quickly, embarrassment making her look around quickly as if someone could hear his words. Don’t worry, sweetheart. No one can hear us. Jace and I are just finishing up with Doc. As soon as we’re finished we’ll head out to the lake to meet you. You’re with Doc? Are you two all right? She could hear Jace’s laughter in her head, and the warmth of his happiness spread through her like a warm blanket. We’re fine, Laurie. Doc just wanted some blood samples. He’s still working on trying to figure out why Mitchell isn’t able to shift. He already took samples from unmated triad partners, and he wants to compare them to those of us in a bonded triad.

Laurie’s Loves

243

Laurie smiled. She liked that they were good and truly a bonded triad. In fact, she was so happy she could cry. What the heck was wrong with her? Her emotions were all over the place lately. I’ll wait for you both at the lake. She felt the push of warmth that both men sent her through their bond and pictured herself opening her arms to them to hold them to her tightly. She was really starting to like this bond connection thing. At first it had scared her and had made her nervous that everything she thought and felt was no longer private, but with both men’s help, she was beginning to learn to control it so that she still had her sense of self and privacy when she needed it. “There you are, Mom,” Dean called to her. Turning, she smiled as she saw Dean, Mitchell, and Mia walking toward her. It seemed that the three of them had become fast friends, and Laurie couldn’t be happier about it. Dean’s easy humor was a good influence on Mitchell, who seemed to be less jumpy lately. And her son’s strength and sense of right and wrong also gave the abused shifter a good indication of what a true friend should be. She smiled at the three of them, glad to see that Mia’s injuries were starting to fade and both her body and her spirit were healing. Her daughter was slowly returning to the confident and strong young woman that she had always been. Mia’s protectiveness and caring for all of them was also something that had had a major impact on Mitchell. Laurie could see how much it amazed him that the three of them were such a loving family who really were a team that helped each other in every aspect of their lives. Mitchell was also learning that Jace’s pack was much the same. Although Jace was the alpha and ruled with undeniable strength and power, he was also fair and caring—something Mitchell never knew could be a possibility in pack dynamics. “What are you three up to?” she asked them, smiling as they neared her. “We were just gonna go to the movies and wanted to know if you wanted to come with us,” Mia told her as she stood next to her mother. “Do you feel like getting away for a while?” Laurie smiled and looked at the three of them, fighting back tears once again at the thought that they wanted to hang out with her. “I think you guys

244

Lynnette Bernard

should go and enjoy yourselves. You don’t need your old mother hanging around.” “Ma, you’re not old.” Dean stopped her immediately. “Come on, come with us.” Laurie smiled at him. “Okay,” she relented. “Let me just grab my purse, and we can go.” Mia smiled at her brother and nodded. Mission accomplished. Once they got their mom away from the ranch, Nikki and Martha would be decorating the back deck for her surprise birthday party. Although their mother’s birthday wasn’t for another three days, they had all plotted together. Jace and Jackson had been adamant that no one slip up and ruin the surprise for her. And their generosity in getting all of the supplies for the party and the way they helped to organize it with them shocked both Mia and Dean. Their mother had never been the recipient of such unselfish giving in her life. The two men’s obvious love for their mother had gone a long way in endearing them to both Mia and Dean. Their mom deserved every bit of happiness that the men were determined to give her. Mates, I’m heading up toward the lodge. The kids and I are going to the movies. Jace and Jackson’s contented growls vibrated through her chest, making her smile. I like the sound of that, honey. Jace’s deep voice sent a shiver of desire through her. What? Mates. Laurie smiled, knowing that her use of the word had just made both men happy. Without hesitation, she pushed her thoughts of kissing them both with passion through their link. Laurie, you’re going to make me come. Jackson’s voice was strained. Sorry. Her giggle echoed in her mates’ heads, and they knew she wasn’t sorry at all. But they wouldn’t change her honest feelings toward them for the world. It had taken them forever to find her, and they cherished every thought, every emotion, every touch she sent their way. Remember what they say about payback, sweetheart. Jackson’s teasing voice filled her with desire as he pushed his thoughts of both men taking her at the same time.

Laurie’s Loves

245

Laurie stumbled slightly as she fought to control her shaking. “Are you okay, Mom?” Mia asked, reaching for her arm to help steady her. “I’ll be fine,” Laurie answered quickly. “Just a little daydreaming, and I didn’t watch my footing.” Good save, Laurie. Jackson, just see what happens when I get you alone. I can’t wait, baby. **** Jace’s cell phone vibrated at his hip. Reaching down, he pulled the phone from his belt and pressed to connect the call, bringing it quickly to his ear as he leaned back in the chair at Doc Barrett’s office. “Jace,” he answered gruffly, turning to face Jackson as he sat across from the doctor. “Alpha, there was a man here asking questions about your mate and her children,” Janine’s voice spoke quickly across the phone connection. She was whispering, and Jace could hear the fear in her voice. “He was really creepy. He gave me a really bad feeling.” Jace stood immediately. “Where is he?” he growled, his anger consuming him. Jackson stood and stepped toward him. He knew something was wrong, and his stomach knotted in fear as he felt Jace’s anger curl around him. His immediate thought was that their mate was in danger. “He just walked out the front door of the main lodge,” Janine answered quickly. “I told him I didn’t know anyone named Laurie Young, but I don’t think he believed me. I told Lucian, and he just followed him out the door.” “Call Alexander and Butler and have them go to Laurie and the children. They’re heading toward the back deck of our lodge. Make sure the men guard them until we get there.” He disconnected the call and turned to Jackson, his wolf close to the surface as the anger consumed him. “Jackson,” he began. “I heard. Let’s go.” Both men burst through the door of Doc Barrett’s clinic, shifting immediately as they went.

246

Lynnette Bernard

Laurie, where are you and the children? Jace’s voice growled through their bond. We’re almost to the lodge. Why? Are you okay? Baby, we need you to take the children and get inside the lodge as soon as you can. Alexander and Butler will meet you. Why, Jace? What’s wrong? I think Patrick is here and is looking for the three of you. Laurie’s instant fear gripped them both, and they stumbled as her panic slammed into them. Don’t worry, honey. Just get all of you inside our room and lock the door behind you. We’ll be there in just a few minutes. Laurie turned and reached for Mia’s hand. “We have to hurry up to the lodge. Your father is here.” Dean turned to face her immediately. “How do you know?” “Jace just told me,” she explained quickly. “I’ll explain it to you later. Just trust me. We have to get inside the lodge. Alexander and Butler will meet us and make sure Patrick won’t hurt us. Jace and Jackson are on their way. Come on. Let’s go.” Without hesitation, Dean, Mia, and Mitchell followed Laurie as she ran toward the lodge. Laurie was grateful that they didn’t question her words. They had always been that way. Even as young children, they trusted her implicitly. They knew she wouldn’t tell them to do something without just cause. As the back deck of the lodge came into view, Laurie breathed a sigh of relief, and she slowed to a stop, bending over and holding her stomach as she took great gasps of breath. She was exhausted from the run but was more scared than anything else, and the fear was making it difficult for her to breathe. She had to calm down. She couldn’t take care of the kids if she panicked. She turned to face them when she felt an arm wrap around her waist and saw a masculine hand bring a knife to her neck. She froze. She knew immediately that it was Patrick. She could smell the overpowering aftershave he wore and felt the familiar body that had abused her for so many years as it was pressed against her. “I warned you. Now all of you are going to pay,” he spoke quietly in her ear.

Laurie’s Loves

247

Mia, Dean, and Mitchell looked at her with wide eyes. She could feel the emotions roaring through them and knew they were afraid to do anything that might trigger Patrick’s violence toward her. “Let her go,” Mia demanded, stepping forward slowly. Patrick pressed the knife to Laurie’s throat, drawing blood as he slowly sliced into her skin. “Don’t say a word, Mia,” he warned her. “Now. Very slowly. Come here.” He looked at Dean and Mia, dismissing the unknown kid beside them. “We’re all going for a little ride.” Dean reached out and took hold of Mia’s forearm and pulled her behind him. “We’re not going anywhere with you.” His voice was firm as he stepped toward his mother. “Oh, but you are, son,” Patrick told him, his voice deceptively calm. “You see, if you don’t, I’ll just kill your mother right here, right now. And then I’ll kill you both.” The blade cut a little deeper to make his point. Laurie kept silent despite the pain. She bit down into her bottom lip to keep the whimper from escaping her. She would not be the cause of her children doing something to help her and then getting hurt themselves. “You should never have divorced me, Laurie,” he told her calmly, pulling her body tightly against his. “I valued my sanity,” Laurie told him firmly, fighting the nausea that was welling up inside of her. “If I had stayed married to you, I would have lost my mind.” “Bitch!” he growled, grabbing her hair and preparing to cut deeply into her neck. The flurry of movement happened so quickly, it took a moment before Laurie realized what was happening. Both children lunged for her as Mitchell growled, and blue light encompassed him as he shifted into a light brown wolf with golden streaks and pounced on Patrick. His teeth sank into the arm that held the knife, and his body weight slammed the man down to the ground. The knife flew from Patrick’s hand as he howled in pain. Two more wolves leaped from the back deck to land on either side of the man as Laurie was pulled away by her children. Laurie looked up at the sky as she was thrown down and covered by her children in time to see Jace and Jackson in wolf form sail over them to land on Patrick’s chest.

248

Lynnette Bernard

The vicious growls of all of the wolves filled the air. Dean pulled both Laurie and Mia to their feet and pushed them protectively behind him as he gaped at the wolves in shock. Mia hung onto his arm as she stepped aside and viewed the surreal scene before her. Laurie stepped out from behind them and walked toward the wolves. By that time, Nikki and Martha had run out onto the deck. Taking in the situation, Martha turned to go back into the lodge to quickly return with several large bath towels from the laundry room. There was going to be an abundance of naked men on the back lawn very soon, and although the shifters would not be concerned with their nudity, she knew that Laurie, Nikki, Dean, and Mia would be. “Patrick, did you really think you would get away with this?” Laurie asked incredulously. Mitchell still had his teeth embedded in Patrick’s forearm and shook it angrily. Jace and Jackson leaned over him, their teeth bared and snapping at him. Alexander and Butler stood on either side of him, their fangs bared, growling, ready to do serious injury. “Mitchell, let him go,” Laurie spoke to the young wolf calmly. Mitchell shook his head angrily, pulling another sharp cry of pain from Patrick. The other four wolves growled deeply, and Patrick’s eyes grew larger as he looked at each one until his eyes rolled back in his head and he lost consciousness. Laurie walked to Mitchell carefully and knelt down beside him, slowly petting him as she tried to calm him. “I’m so proud of you, Mitchell,” she told him honestly. “You shifted. And you did it to protect me and my children. You’re a brave wolf.” Mitchell looked up at Laurie with something close to adoration in his eyes. There was a blue shimmer of magic, and the young wolf transformed back to his human form. Laurie caught the towel Martha tossed her and handed it to Mitchell, smiling at the blush that covered his cheeks. She was glad to see that his injuries from his beating by his previous alpha were now completely healed. His shift had given him the miraculous ability to heal as was the norm for shifters. She was so happy for him. “Dude, that was awesome!” Dean’s amazed voice broke the silence.

Laurie’s Loves

249

Mitchell looked up at Dean and smiled. “It was, wasn’t it?” Mitchell agreed. “It’s the first time I’ve ever shifted into my wolf form. I never could before.” “That’s because you found your triad partner.” Jace’s deep voice startled them. Laurie looked up to see that all four wolves had shifted back to their human forms and were wrapping towels around their waists, grateful that Martha had thought to get them. “I have?” Mitchell asked, confused. “I’ve only met Dean,” he protested, his voice dying out as he looked up at his new friend. His triad partner. “I don’t know what that means, but if meeting me made you shift, that’s freakin’ amazing!” Dean told him, totally in awe of him. “Aw, I didn’t get a good look at all that naked flesh before you guys covered up,” Nikki complained from the deck. Alexander and Butler both growled at her at the same time. “Woman, you will not look at anyone but your mates,” Butler told her angrily. “Yeah right, buddy,” Nikki called down to him. “In your dreams.” Laurie laughed quietly then found her legs giving out on her as her nerves took over, and she felt herself falling to the ground. Jackson reached for her and pulled her onto his lap as he sat quickly to cushion her fall and cuddled her in his lap. Jace was beside her immediately, touching her face as the anger left him and concern took its place. “Get Doc Barrett,” he commanded Alexander quickly, facing his men with fire in his eyes. “Find out what happened to Lucian,” he told Butler, snapping the order angrily before returning his gaze to Laurie. He reached out and held his hand to her throat to try to stop the blood that was escaping her in a steady stream from the wound in her neck. “I should have killed him,” he whispered angrily. Laurie reached up and touched his face gently. “No,” she said firmly. “That would make you as bad as he is, and you are nothing like him.” She leaned forward and kissed his lips tenderly, running her hand down his shoulder to hold his hand in hers. Reaching down, she found Jackson’s hand as it cradled her hip and took his within her grasp, entwining her fingers with them both. “I love you,” she whispered as their heads leaned in to rest against hers.

250

Lynnette Bernard

“We love you, baby,” Jackson whispered against the side of her face. “So damned much!” “Okay, Mom,” Mia’s voice chimed in. “Let’s call the police and get this piece of trash taken away.” Laurie looked up and saw her beautiful daughter looking down at her with determination. She couldn’t help but smile at her fierce little warrior. “And then we’re going to have a long talk about all this wolf business.” Mia crossed her arms across her chest. “Way to keep a secret, Mom!” she told her proudly, her voice conveying her amazement. She looked up at Dean and saw that he stood there with a wide grin on his face. “And don’t you even start about how cool it is to be a triad partner to a wolf!” she told her brother, poking him in the chest as he stood beside her. Dean just smiled. He looked at Mitchell and saw his new friend looking at him in wonder. But Dean had just one question for him. “Do I get to shift into a wolf, too?”

Laurie’s Loves

251

Chapter 24 Laurie looked at her reflection in the full-length mirror in their bathroom. She brushed her hair slowly, wanting to look perfect for the two men who waited for her in their bedroom. Lowering the hairbrush to the counter, she lightly passed her hand over the lavender negligee. She tried to look at herself objectively. She wasn’t a small woman, never had been, but her curves were proportionate. Her hips were full, her breasts on the large side. Men liked that, right? She looked at her face, turning her head first to one side and then the other. She could be considered attractive. Jace and Jackson certainly made her feel that way. Even after all that they had been through, and all the ways they had reassured her that they loved and desired her just as she was, she couldn’t help but become overwhelmed with anxiety. Patrick’s intrusion in her life once again had that effect on her. He had methodically destroyed her confidence over the years. It didn’t matter how long they were divorced. His cruel words and actions still sent her into a tailspin of insecurity and despair. Gently touching the bandage that covered her throat, she couldn’t help but wince at the pain. As she had sat on the steps of the back deck, both Jace and Jackson had licked the wound repeatedly, determined to help the healing process along, but she had been so caught up in the sensuality of feeling their tongues against her neck that she found herself clutching their arms and pulling them toward her. Doc Barrett had cleared his throat softly to remind them that they were surrounded by people, and she had blushed at the memory of everyone looking at her with knowing smiles. Finally, her men had given the doctor the space he needed to dress the wound. Only when everyone was satisfied that she had been taken care of and her wound was not life threatening, did everyone stop hovering over her. Laurie was relieved when Officers Clayton Forest and Hunter Stewart arrived and took up their time and attention. She was relieved that they were

252

Lynnette Bernard

already familiar with her ex from the fiasco at the mall, and she felt safe knowing that they were part of Jace’s pack. Laurie was proud of her children as they spoke clearly and without fear to the officers. Patrick did not fare as well. He was shaking with fear as Alexander whispered something to him before he was lead away. Laurie had a feeling that Patrick wouldn’t be telling anyone about his wolf experience. She doubted he would confess to such insanity. No one would believe him anyway. Jace had reminded her that Hunter and Clay would be sure to keep the details of the wolf shifters out of the incident report since the crime being committed was committed by a human. If the crime had been committed by a shifter, Jace, as ruling alpha, would have made a swift and fair judgment to protect the pack. Once the officers had left with Patrick in custody, the kids had decided to forgo the movie, wanting to spend the night relaxing quietly in the living room instead. It seemed as if the entire pack had just needed to be together. It wasn’t long before there had been a constant stream of visitors as each pack member stopped by to show their concern and support. Laurie had been awed by their kindness and had nearly cried at the way every member had welcomed her children when they had arrived at the ranch, but now she was speechless as the pack showed her just how much they truly cared about her as well. She had been especially glad to see Lucian and Cole come by. She had worried when she had found out that Patrick had caught Lucian by surprise and had knocked him out with one of the fireplace logs that had been stacked outside the visitors’ lodge. Thankfully, Luc had recovered quickly. She would always be amazed by the healing capabilities that the wolf shifters had. Luc had apologized profusely for allowing Patrick to get past him. He had stood before Jace utterly dejected, feeling totally responsible for putting Laurie and her children at risk. Jace had put a stop to his apologies, insisting that Luc was not responsible for what had happened. Laurie was so proud of her mate. He was a good, fair, and caring leader of his pack. When she had seen the relief on Luc’s face as he had nodded and lowered his head, baring his throat in deference to Jace, she had to fight back the tears at the sense of respect, honor, and justice that was at the heart of this incredible group of people.

Laurie’s Loves

253

When she had seen Luc and Cole make their way over to her children and Mitchell, she had been relieved to see that the five of them seemed so at ease with each other. She also hadn’t missed the glances the two men had kept stealing at Mia. Pulling herself back to the present, she took one more glance at her reflection in the mirror. She was surprised by the fact that she actually felt sexy in the negligee. Nikki and Julia had insisted that it fit her perfectly. The neckline of the soft lavender lace plunged to just below her breasts, molding itself to her, beautifully framing her breasts and giving just a hint of her nipples through the soft silk that covered them. The negligee fell to just above her knees and swirled out in a full skirt of decadent silk fabric that made her feel very feminine as it brushed against her thighs. Would Jace and Jackson like the way she looked in it? Taking a calming breath, she pushed aside her fears and turned to exit the bathroom. She wanted to please her men. A giggle escaped her at the thought. How in the world had this happened? Her men? Really? When she stepped out into the bedroom, she immediately froze. Both men were standing before her, rumbling growls emanating from deep within their chests. Their feelings of desire surrounded her immediately. “Do you like it?” she asked hesitantly. Both men quickly closed the distance that separated them from her. Jackson’s hand immediately covered her left breast, tenderly stroking her nipple through the nearly sheer material. She gasped at his contact, reaching up to hold onto his forearm, her hand squeezing tightly as the sensations of his touch fired through her body. “Baby, you’re gorgeous,” he whispered, leaning in to kiss her neck, turning his head and biting down on her shoulder. Laving his tongue over the mating mark he had renewed there just the night before, he kissed it tenderly, filled with wonder that this amazing woman belonged to them. Jace wrapped his arms around her waist, tenderly petting her hip as he leaned in to claim her lips. “I can’t get enough of you,” he finally whispered, pulling away from her mouth to look down at her. His eyes flashed golden for a brief moment, reminding Laurie that his wolf wanted her just as much as the man did. Laurie smiled up at both men. “I’m glad, because I don’t think I’ll ever get enough of you either,” she told them, her voice barely above a whisper.

254

Lynnette Bernard

Jackson stepped back and walked to their bed, leaning forward to turn the blankets down before turning back to Laurie. He held out his hand, and she stepped toward him immediately, reaching out to take his hand and allowing him to guide her to the bed. “Climb in, sweetheart,” he told her gently. “You’ve had a tough day. Just lie back and rest and let us hold you.” Laurie climbed in and sighed as the coolness of the sheets surrounded her. She watched with admiration as both men began to take off their clothes, revealing their tanned and muscular physiques. Seeing their bodies rippling with power as their muscles moved, she felt her pulse quicken. When they stripped off their jeans and climbed in on either side of her, resting against her, she allowed herself to finally relax after such a stressful day. With them beside her, holding her gently, feeling them caress her arms, her breasts, her face, she knew what it was to be truly cherished. She could feel her eyes closing as their warmth soothed her. “Sleep, baby,” Jace’s voice whispered against her temple, kissing her lightly as he moved closer to her so that his entire body lay flush against hers. “We’ll take care of you.” Jackson’s voice soothed her as he moved closer to her, needing to feel her against him. They were both determined that she relax after all that had happened to her. They had feared for her safety as well as Mia’s and Dean’s. And they also worried for the baby she was carrying. The stress and injury her mama had sustained could not have been good for their little one. Before she realized it, Laurie had been lulled to sleep by her men’s deep voices and soothing touches. Jace smiled as he felt her body relax against them and heard her soft, even breathing. We almost lost her today, Jackson. Jackson nodded and leaned forward to kiss her cheek softly, careful not to disturb her. I know. I would have lost my mind. Me, too. Jackson’s voice broke as he thought of a future without her. Jace couldn’t prevent the growl that escaped him as he held her tighter against his body. We’ll have to tell the kids to move the surprise party for their mom to another day.

Laurie’s Loves

255

Jackson’s voice soothed Jace, allowing him to concentrate on the love the children had for Laurie. They really are good kids, aren’t they? Jace’s voice was soft in Jackson’s head. Jace smiled at the sight of his triad partner cuddled against Laurie and breathing in her scent as he nuzzled against her temple. They are. We’re lucky, Jace. The Fates have gifted us with our mate, two children, and a cub on the way. A beautiful vision of Laurie sitting on the floor in the living room, playing with their daughter, entered both of their minds. She was laughing and reaching out to hand the toddler to Jackson before leaning over to kiss him sweetly as he sat on the floor beside her. Jace saw himself sitting down beside them both, lovingly petting his daughter’s hair as he leaned in to kiss the top of their sweet child’s head. “I have something to tell you both,” the Laurie in the vision told them, smiling as she reached down and took both their hands in hers. They looked at her silently, waiting. “I think I’m pregnant again. Do you mind?” She looked at them worriedly and waited for their answer. “Sweetheart, we already knew,” vision Jace told her, leaning forward to kiss her lips gently. “Do you mind being pregnant again?” Laurie smiled at them both, unable to stop the tears that filled her eyes. “I couldn’t be happier,” she told them, her voice soft. “I love every minute of having children with you.” The vision ended as Laurie turned on her side to face Jackson, sighing heavily as she cuddled into his chest. Jackson looked at Jace in surprise. That came from her, Jace. Laurie’s hand reached back, searching for Jace. Finding his hip, she pulled him toward her until his body spooned hers. His hand settled around her to gently hold her around her waist. He had no words to express how much it meant to him that not only did Laurie want children with them, but she also envisioned the joy of raising a family with them. “You’re going to be wonderful fathers,” Laurie’s voice whispered into the darkness of their room, unaware of the words that had escaped her as she slept. Both men were silent as they held her. Could life get any better than this? Jackson’s voice spoke exactly what Jace was feeling.

256

Lynnette Bernard

Chapter 25 Laurie stretched as she fought to wake up. Reaching out, she found Jace’s side of the bed empty, and her brow furrowed in confusion. Turning slowly, she breathed a sigh of relief when she found Jackson still sleeping peacefully next to her. He lay on his back with one hand resting against his chest, and she smiled at the innocence of him as he slept. She knew he was certainly no innocent, and she couldn’t prevent the knowing, lustful smile that crossed her lips as she thought of the very thorough and very erotic lovemaking that they had shared. She watched him quietly, reaching out to touch his hand gently, smiling at the instant acceptance of her touch as he held her hand lightly against his chest. She could feel the slow beat of his heart beneath her palm and lost herself in the feeling of peace and contentment that his presence gave her. Never in her life had she felt so cared for. The strength of both men in the way they immediately protected her made her heart fill with feelings she had never thought she would ever have in her life. She loved them with every bit of her heart. They belonged to her as much as she belonged to them. Her feelings must have been transmitted to Jace because she could feel the instant love and warmth he sent to her. Are you near, Jace? I’m in the office meeting with Doc Barrett. Do you need me? I’ll always need you. Her response was instant and sincere, and she couldn’t prevent the feeling of instant desire she had to take Jace into her arms and hold him gently against her chest from rushing through their bond to him. Jace’s growl of need echoed in her mind. You soothe me like no other, Mate. Laurie smiled and enveloped him tighter within her arms, imagining rubbing her hands across his back soothingly, pushing every feeling of gentle caring she had for him through their bond.

Laurie’s Loves

257

Thank you, Laurie. Get back to your meeting. I’ll see you when you’re through. When Jackson wakes up, tell him to get his lazy ass down here to see Doc. He still has to have a sample of his blood taken. Okay. But you’re going to have to wait until I love him a little first. Jace’s chuckle made her heart light. Okay, baby. I’ll send Doc to his office, so you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy yourselves. Jackson can go to him this afternoon instead. I’ll be up later to give you some loving. I’ll hold you to that. Laurie felt his warmth surround her one last time before his presence left her mind. She was glad that she could still sense him on the outer edges of her awareness. She hoped it would always be that way. Knowing that both men would always be a part of her every waking minute settled her in a way she couldn’t put into words. How do you explain the feeling of total love and caring or how it makes you feel to finally mean something special and important to someone? Turning her attention to the gorgeous man who slept beside her, she leaned closer toward him and kissed his shoulder lightly. When he didn’t move, she decided to be bolder, leaning forward to kiss his chest, moving to his nipple and laving it with her tongue and sucking on it lightly. She smiled against him as she heard him groan. Pulling her hand from his, she slid down his body, pushing down the sheet and blanket as she went, revealing the chiseled physique of his stomach and the beauty of his cock. It lay half hard against his thigh, and she decided it was about time to do some serious worshiping of that glorious member. Breathing in deeply, his scent filled her, and desire spiked through her. Leaning forward, she opened her mouth and licked up the length of him, paying close attention to tracing the prominent veins that ran up the underside of his quickly thickening cock. Reaching the head, she swirled her tongue around the underside of the mushroom cap and hummed with pleasure at the sound of his responding moan of approval. “Baby, that’s so good,” he whispered, carding his fingers through her hair and holding her gently against him. She saw the drop of moisture that was leaking from the slit and reached her tongue out to lap up his essence before pressing against the opening and flicking her tongue to quickly capture it, moaning her approval at the taste

258

Lynnette Bernard

of him. Opening her mouth, she took him deep, sensuously running her tongue along his shaft as she pulled back, sucking with a strength that made him gasp with pleasure. Jackson’s growl of approval made her smile. Pushing back down, she opened her throat as best she could and swallowed him to the root, holding herself against his groin and rubbing her nose into the dark curls there as she reached up and tenderly took his heavy sac in hand and caressed it with utmost care. She once again pulled back, sucking and flicking her tongue across the tip as she nearly released him, only to suck him back into her mouth and begin the decadent descent down his length once again. Jackson held her head gently, both hands gripping her and sinking into the softness of her hair as he guided her toward him, carefully lifting his hips to thrust shallowly into the heaven that was her mouth. She leaned forward to take all of his length inside her mouth, wanting to give him mindnumbing pleasure. His groan of approval made her smile at her success. She loved making him lose control. And that’s exactly what was happening. She could feel the strength of his body as he pumped up into her mouth, keeping her head still as he reached up to plunge in deep over and over again. She wanted him to lose himself to the ecstasy of the moment. She wanted him to shout out as he found his completion. She wanted to drink down every drop of his seed. She needed the intensity of the way she felt about him to be the way he felt about her. Her heart pounded, and she could feel the moisture dripping down the inside of her legs as her desire for him filled her to overflowing. Suddenly, Jackson sat up, dislodging himself from her mouth and reaching down to grab her under her arms to pull her up until her face was directly in front of his. His eyes were glowing golden, and his teeth had elongated. “I need to be inside of you. Now.” His voice was hoarse with desire. He pulled the negligee from her body and threw it to the floor, a moan escaping him as he felt her breasts against his chest. Turning his body, he flipped her as if she weighed no more than a piece of paper, until she was settled below him and his hips found their place in the cradle of her pelvis. Laurie couldn’t prevent the sigh that escaped her as his body settled so comfortably and intimately against hers.

Laurie’s Loves

259

She could feel the head of his cock nudging her waiting channel, and she opened her legs wider to accommodate him. “Are you wet for me, baby?” he whispered, leaning back to look down at her as he spread her already swollen folds gently, growling when he saw the glistening proof of her arousal. Running his finger through the warm wetness that awaited him, he smiled at the whimper that left her as he pushed one finger inside her gently, quickly adding another as he felt her open to him, and tenderly stroked in and out of her. “So wet,” he whispered. “So ready for me.” Taking his fingers from her body, he brought them to his mouth and carefully sucked her juices from them. Laurie watched him in silence, her pupils dilating with arousal at the erotic scene before her. Reaching down, she took firm hold of his cock and guided him to her already overflowing pussy, pushing him inside her, then reached out to grab his hips and pull him closer until he sank deep within her. A moan of approval escaped her as he took over and pushed home the final inches. She could feel him touching a place inside her that made her shiver with a spike of desire and need. His length and thickness filled her to capacity, and she would be very happy to have him stay exactly where he was for the rest of their lives. Jackson smiled as he leaned forward to take her lips gently with his. He could feel her desire, and her thoughts were echoing in his head. He was careful not to let her hear his own teasing thoughts that he couldn’t stay where he was or their baby wouldn’t be able to be born. Closing his eyes, he smiled against her neck. Would she laugh with him or scold him for being fresh? Either would make him immensely happy. He looked forward to every intimate moment of their mating. Love poured through him at the thought of this beautiful woman filled with their baby. Although he was careful to withhold that bit of information from her, he allowed his love for her to bathe her in a rush of white light. “I love you so much, Jackson,” she whispered against his neck. He leaned back and smiled down at her, his eyes glowing, his wolf at the forefront. “I love you more than my life, Laurie,” he told her honestly, kissing her gently before pushing himself up on his arms and rocking his hips forward and back as he made gentle love to her. He watched her as tears filled her eyes, and she smiled at him with such tenderness that his heart ached. The love and caring that poured from her

260

Lynnette Bernard

into him filled him beyond capacity, and he found himself unable to contain the happiness that burst from him. He could feel their bond enveloping them, and they reached out to Jace to encompass him within their love. Feeling Jace’s instant response of happiness made them look at each other and smile. “I think Jace will be up here pretty soon to share our love,” Jackson told her, smiling down at the most beautiful woman in the world. Their mate. Laurie could only smile, feeling the emotions that both men surrounded her with. For the first time in her life she actually believed that she was totally and unconditionally loved by two men that she absolutely felt the same way about. A moan escaped her, and pleasure surged through her as Jackson increased his plunges in tempo and strength. With each deep plunge she could feel her climax building. “Harder, Jackson,” she pleaded, reaching down and taking hold of his ass cheeks to pull him roughly toward her. Jackson’s hips snapped with more force, pounding against her, and his growls became more feral as she drew out the beast in him. His wolf was doing a mating dance in his head, and he couldn’t stop him from taking over and completing the frenzied mating that he needed. Laurie’s gasps of pleasure spurred him on. Leaning back, he pulled her up onto his thighs and plunged into her over and over again, hitting her clit with every push deep into her body. She was moaning continuously, and he knew it wouldn’t be long before they both soared. Leaning toward her, he clamped his mouth onto her shoulder and bit down hard, reinstating his claim on their mate as his hips slammed into her. Laurie screamed as her orgasm exploded through her, reaching down to hold Jackson’s hips against her as she felt his mating knot swell and take hold as his seed emptied deep inside her. He howled against her shoulder as spurt after spurt of his essence filled her and her sweet blood filled him. He lay against her, supporting some of his weight on his arms as their bodies fought to calm down. Licking her shoulder to close the mating mark, he kissed it softly before pulling up to look down at her. She had her eyes closed, and there was a smile on her face. “I didn’t hurt you, did I, baby?” he asked her worriedly.

Laurie’s Loves

261

He watched as she slowly opened her eyes and saw the tenderness and love that shined back at him. The internal muscles of her body clenched, and he moaned as she milked one last spurt of seed from him. She smiled at his reaction and pulled his hips closer against hers, wanting him as close to her as possible. “You could never hurt me, Jackson,” she whispered softly, leaning up to kiss his neck, biting down on it ever so slightly. At his growl of approval she moved to his shoulder and bit down a little harder. “Do I need to mark you and Jace the way you’ve marked me?” she asked suddenly. He leaned back and looked down at her, smiling. “No, baby,” he told her, laughing quietly. “Unless you want to.” He winked down at her and couldn’t stop smiling at the serious expression on her face. “What are you thinking so hard about, honey?” “I just want to make sure that everyone knows who you two belong to,” she told him, unable to keep the jealousy from her voice. Jackson smiled and leaned down to kiss her softly, tracing her lips with his tongue before pulling back and reaching up to gently touch her face. “You don’t have to worry about that, baby,” he told her honestly. “Wolves mate for life, and you’re it for us. Your scent is all over us as ours are all over you. No one will ever question that we belong to each other.” Laurie seemed to think about it for a moment, then nodded and smiled up at him. “Okay, that’s good,” she said finally. “I want you both to belong to me, and no one better ever try to take you from me.” She moaned as he gently pulled from her body, kissing her slowly, smiling at her words. Leaving her briefly to go into the bathroom to clean up, he came back with a warm washcloth. He couldn’t prevent the smile that covered his face as he saw her laid out before him, gloriously naked and seriously loved. She looked sexy and rumpled after their lovemaking, and he carefully crawled onto the bed to settle himself between her legs. Pushing them apart gently, he reached down to carefully wipe the seed that was escaping her, reveling in the fact that she lay pliant beneath him, willing to accept his ministrations and intimate touch. Throwing the wet cloth onto the side table, he lay down beside her and gathered her into his arms to pull her against him until her head was settled on his shoulder and her arm lay across his chest, holding him gently. He

262

Lynnette Bernard

pulled the sheet over them both, saying a quick prayer of thanks to the Fates for giving them this wonderful woman. The door to their room opened slowly, and they both looked up to find Jace looking at them with a smile on his face. He closed the door behind him and locked it. Walking toward them, he began unbuttoning his shirt and pulled it from his body. “Hi, Jace,” Laurie whispered tiredly against Jackson’s chest. “Hey, baby,” he answered, reaching down to unbuckle his belt and unzip his pants. “Come to bed,” she barely managed to get out before closing her eyes and settling against Jackson for some much needed rest. Jace chuckled and kicked off his boots, his pants quickly following. He walked around the opposite side of the bed and eased back the covers, climbing in beside Laurie and spooning against her back. A great sigh of contentment escaped him as his naked body made contact with hers. Leaning forward, he gently kissed her shoulder and smiled when she reached out to take his hand and bring it to her chest to snuggle him against her as close as she could. “Tired, baby?” he whispered against her temple. “Mmmmm,” she hummed against Jackson’s chest. “Just give me a few minutes, and then I need you to help me with something.” Jace looked across her and smiled at Jackson. “What do you need help with, Laurie?” he asked her, laughing. “Nikki bought me a butt plug that I need you and Jackson to help me put in,” she whispered, snuggling tighter against them both and promptly falling asleep. Both men looked at each other in shock before decidedly wicked expressions crossed their faces. **** Laurie stirred her cup of cinnamon apple tea, breathing in the delicious scent before carefully sipping the hot concoction. She smiled at Martha as she fussed over Mia, Dean, and Mitchell, pouring them sweet tea to go with their sandwiches as they sat eating at the large kitchen table. She felt a sense of peace envelope her as she saw how happy her children were. They were

Laurie’s Loves

263

comfortable and enjoying themselves as they teased the older woman, commenting on her tendency to worry too much. “You sound just like my mother.” Mia laughed, pushing aside Martha’s worry that they were going to go into town to see a movie together without the men that were their constant bodyguards. “Hey!” Laurie called to them, offended, as she headed toward the group. “Mom, you know you worry too much,” Dean spoke up, his voice calm as he tended to be when he pointed out the obvious. “It’s my job to worry,” Laurie protested, holding her mug against her chest as her emotions threatened to spill forward. “Mine, too,” Martha interrupted, coming to stand next to Laurie and crossing her arms across her chest. “We have reason to worry. You three should not be away from the pack without Alexander and Butler with you to be sure you’re safe.” “I think Aunt Nikki would prefer those two guys stay here with her, even if she won’t admit it,” Mia spoke up, her intuition spot on. “Then we can have Lucian and Cole go with you,” Martha spoke up. Mia blushed lightly at the mention of the two men who seemed to always be on her mind and who always seemed to be around her. But she wasn’t about to give in. She sat up straighter in her chair, her back straightening as she lost her temper. “We don’t need babysitters.” “Little one,” Martha told her quietly, stepping forward to touch Mia’s shoulder lightly. “You and Dean have to understand that you are now the children of Jace and Jackson. Mitchell, you’re also under their protection. You’re as good as their son whether you want to admit it or not. You three are open to danger from other packs who know that they can destroy our alpha and beta by harming you.” Dean reached out and touched Mia’s hand. He felt the soothing touch of Mitchell’s hand on his shoulder and was grateful for the support that his friend offered. “Mia, we have to make sure no one can hurt them because of us.” Mia looked at Dean quietly, her struggle obvious on her face as well as in her body language. “Dean, are we going to trade one cage for another? How long have we lived worrying that Patrick would hurt Mom? We can’t always live in fear. That’s no way to live.” “I agree.” Jace’s deep voice came from behind Laurie, startling them all.

264

Lynnette Bernard

He stepped forward until he was standing in front of the table to look down at the three young people. He admired their courage as well as their concern for their mother and their new pack. He was also proud that they looked up at him with confidence, smiling at the way they refused to show submission. They met his gaze head-on. And that made them outstanding in his eyes. “Jace?” Laurie’s concerned voice touched his heart as she stepped forward, reaching out to hold his hand tightly. He squeezed her hand to comfort her as he looked down at her and smiled, his love for her obvious in his eyes. “Trading one limitation for another isn’t acceptable. The three of them need to know they can take care of themselves, and we trust them to make safe choices and look out for each other.” He turned back to face the three who were now his children. “You’ll be going off to college, and we need to be comfortable with the fact that you’ll be away from us but that you’ll be safe. You need to make sure you always have your phones, that they’re always charged, and that you’re always aware of your surroundings and the people around you. Stay in public places if you aren’t sure of your safety. And if you have any inkling of anything wrong, I mean anything, you’re to call us immediately. One of us will come to you as soon as we can, and someone from a pack closer to you will be with you until we can get to you. There is nothing more important to us than your safety.” He watched the three of them, waiting for their response. He waited silently as Mia turned to Dean, who in turn faced Mitchell. They seemed to come to a consensus, and they turned to face him as a united front. They nodded, accepting his words and direction. “What about today?” Mitchell spoke up. “What about it?” Jace asked, confused. “We wanted to go to the movies without an escort,” Mia told him, her voice strong, irritation evident in her tone. Jace faced them silently. Laurie could tell he was carefully weighing the need to keep the three of them safe while understanding that they needed their space. He squeezed her hand gently, knowing she was just as concerned as he was. “Do you have your phones?” Jace asked them. They nodded.

Laurie’s Loves

265

“Are they charged?” he continued. Again they nodded. “Take them out.” He looked at Laurie, waiting for her to voice any objection, and saw her looking up at him with adoring eyes. He could feel the emotion of her total trust deep within his body as she sent him love through their bond, making him smile as he mirrored her love, sending it back to her to surround her. She smiled and waited patiently to see what he was going to do. Their three children reached into their jeans and pulled their phones out of their pockets, looking up at Jace and waiting for him to continue. They didn’t have long to wait. “Program the numbers I give you into your phones.” They nodded and busily added the numbers for Jace, Jackson, Alexander, Butler, Lucian, Cole, Julia, Adrian, Colin, Doc Barrett, Martha, and the main number to the ranch as he dictated them. When he saw them complete the programming, he nodded, released Laurie’s hand, and crossed his arms across his massive chest. He stood silent and imposing as he looked down at the three young adults before him. In that moment, he could see that the three of them knew and accepted him as their alpha. He looked at them with a seriousness that brooked no argument. “You children now belong to me and Jackson.” He looked at each one of them, making sure they saw the truth in his eyes. Allowing his wolf to flash golden in his eyes sealed the statement. “And you belong to the pack. As members of our family, you are to follow pack law. The number one rule of our pack is that we protect each other. When you’re not on pack land, it’s your responsibility to look out for each other. I expect you to check in only once when you’re out. Text me the letter C. That means check-in. When you’re heading home to the ranch you’re to text the letter R for ranch. If you need help you’re to text me the letter H for help. You are not to write anything else in your texts. If someone should force you to contact us and your texts include complete messages, we’ll know you’re being coerced and will take the appropriate action to find you and get you home safely.” He looked over the three of them slowly, seeing the information processing in their brains. “I will respond to every message with my first name. Nothing more. Then you are to delete all the messages so no one will be able to see how we communicate with each other. Are we clear?” he asked quietly, a

266

Lynnette Bernard

deep growl escaping from him as the protective emotions he was feeling broke free. The three of them nodded then turned to look at Laurie and saw her smiling at them. Her eyes were sparkling with tears and shone with love for each of them. Unable to hold back any longer, she leaned into Jace’s side, welcoming his strong arms as they surrounded her. He smiled down at her and winked, then turned back to face the kids. “Go have fun,” he told them. “Just remember what I told you.” He turned then and kissed Laurie’s mouth quickly before releasing her to reach out and grab the sandwich from Mitchell’s plate, bringing it to his mouth and taking a big bite. “Thanks, Mitchell,” he teased as he walked away, disappearing down the hallway to head to his office. Mitchell laughed and reached for two slices of bread to make a new sandwich. “Hurry up and finish eating,” he told his two friends. “We don’t want to be late for the movie.” Laurie smiled, turning to step back and lean against the sink, sipping her tea slowly. For the first time in her life, she finally felt that her children were safe. And she felt the love, acceptance, and protection of the pack for all of them. It was wonderful. Martha joined her at the sink, turning to watch her silently. “I think I’d better stock up on that tea for you,” she teased. Laurie blushed, embarrassed by her recent obsession with the delicious blend of herbal tea. “I’m sorry,” she apologized, placing the empty mug on the counter. “I don’t know why I can’t seem to get enough of it lately. I really need to cut back. It’s making me go to the bathroom all the time,” she told the older woman, laughing. Martha smiled, happy in the knowledge that it was Laurie’s pregnancy that was creating her cravings as well as her constant need to go to the bathroom. It would only be a matter of time before she realized the miracle that was growing inside of her. She knew that Laurie would embrace the pregnancy and love the precious new life that she was destined to share with her alpha and beta. They worked silently beside each other, cleaning the kitchen as the children left to go to the movies. Once everything was washed and put away, Martha took Laurie by the shoulders and physically turned her toward Jace’s office, giving her a slight push to get her moving.

Laurie’s Loves

267

“I’ve taken up enough of your time,” she told her firmly. “Go to Jace. I’m sure he would appreciate your company right now. He’s been in his office for most of the afternoon, and I bet he could use a break.” Laurie smiled and walked away from Martha. She didn’t need to be told twice to go to her mate. She craved being with him. Walking to the office door, she knocked softly, opening the door when she heard Jace call to enter. His immediate smile when he saw her made her heart flutter. She was happy to see him smiling more and more and could feel his contentment. She knew that their bonding had made this change in him, easing his stress and making his burden of leading and protecting his pack that much easier. “Come here, baby,” he told her, leaning back in his chair and opening his arms to welcome her. She closed the door behind her and walked over to him, stepping between his legs as he made room for her behind his desk. She leaned against the edge of the desk and looked down at him, her eyes twinkling in excitement at being close to him once again. “You were wonderful with the kids,” she told him softly. “Thank you.” He nodded, reaching out to take her hand in his, drawing it toward his mouth and kissing her knuckles lightly. He rolled his chair toward her, trapping her between him and the desk. Leaning forward, he laid his head on her stomach and closed his eyes, taking a deep breath to breathe in her scent. The baby had changed her scent just enough to make her presence known, and that knowledge made him smile against Laurie’s body, kissing her belly softly. Laurie giggled as he pushed up her shirt to lick at her belly, nipping her lightly with his teeth. Jace looked up at her and smiled, standing slowly to take her in his arms and kiss her lips softly. “I think you have way too many clothes on,” he whispered against her ear. “Do you?” Laurie laughed, putting her arms around his waist and rubbing his back gently. “Mmmm,” he hummed, kissing the spot just behind her ear. He reached down and tugged at the purple baby doll shirt she wore until it was pulled over her head and tossed on the floor behind the desk. Leaning back, he smiled as he looked down at the black lace bra that she wore, reaching up to gently trace the scalloped edge over the top of her breasts.

268

Lynnette Bernard

His breathing became labored as he caressed the luscious mounds, rubbing his thumbs across her nipples as they hardened into peaks that ached for more. Laurie moaned and pushed into his touch. When he reached behind her to release the catch on her bra and pull it slowly from her body to throw it on the floor beside her already discarded shirt, she was barely able to catch her breath. She couldn’t prevent the moan that escaped her when he leaned down to capture her breast seductively, drawing her nipple into his mouth and suckling it gently. “Jace,” she whispered, unsure what she was asking of him. She just knew she needed his touch like she needed air to breathe. “I’ve got you, baby,” he whispered as he turned to worship her other breast while his hand reached down and palmed her mound through her jeans. He groaned at the feel of her heat. Rubbing her gently, he pushed his fingers against her core, wanting the material of her jeans to go away so he could sink himself into the warm wetness he knew awaited him. Laurie’s mewl of need made his cock harden near to bursting. With strength Laurie didn’t know she had, she pushed at him, surprising him as he fell back a step, creating a space big enough for Laurie to do what she wanted to do. Without hesitation, she reached for his T-shirt and pulled it over his head, tossing it aside without care. Leaning forward, she latched onto his nipple and suckled furiously, biting down gently, smiling at the moan that escaped him. Reaching down, she unbuckled his belt, unbuttoned the top button on his jeans, and unzipped his fly. She carefully lowered the zipper, caressing the huge bulge behind it as she unveiled her prize. Pushing at the waist of his jeans, she lowered them, along with his boxer briefs, until she was able to free his engorged and already leaking cock. Kneeling down before him, she drew his jeans and underwear down until he lifted his feet one at a time to allow her to remove his boots and his clothes. Before he could reach down to draw her up into his embrace, she reached up and took his heavy sac into her hand, caressing it gently before leaning forward to carefully take it into her mouth, sucking his balls into the warmth of her mouth. He moaned as she pulled them deep into her mouth, running her tongue around the delicate orbs, worshiping them.

Laurie’s Loves

269

“Laurie,” he whispered, his whole body starting to vibrate with need at her gentle loving. She released his sac with a pop then reached up to take his cock in her hand and draw it toward her mouth, swallowing it down in one long sweep until he hit the back of her throat, and then she swallowed to take him deeper. His hands held her head as he slowly rocked himself in and out of her welcoming mouth. She raised her hands to balance herself against his hips, loving the feel of the strength of his body under her hands. Everything about him screamed power, yet his gentleness with her touched her heart and made her cry. Carefully easing himself out of her mouth, he reached down and pulled her up so that she stood before him, kissing her as she looked up at him. “Are you all right?” he asked her quietly when he saw her eyes glistening with tears. She nodded and smiled. “I love how you make love to me,” she whispered, reaching up to touch his face with utmost tenderness. The male satisfaction that stared back at her made her laugh. But that laughter quickly turned into a moan when his hand made its way to her backside and gently pushed against the plug that was deeply embedded inside of her. “Do you have any idea how much Jackson and I enjoyed putting this inside of you?” he whispered, unsnapping her jeans so he could slip his hand into the back of her pants and reach down to slide his fingertips along her crack to gently separate her cheeks and find the bottom of the plug as it lay nestled within her rectum. He pushed against it lightly, smiling at the groan that escaped her. Laurie smiled at the memory of their time together just that morning when both men loved her until she screamed and patiently stretched her and filled her with lube until her body was ready to accept the hot pink butt plug. By then they were both hard and aching, and she had happily watched as they stroked themselves while she held and caressed their sacs until they shouted their release and came all over her breasts, immediately rubbing their seed into her to make sure their scent enveloped her and once again claimed her as theirs.

270

Lynnette Bernard

“Baby, I need to see,” he told her almost desperately, quickly unzipping her jeans and pushing them, along with her panties, down her legs until they were kicked off her body along with her sneakers. Pushing her back against his desk until she was lying on her back, with her legs on each side of his shoulders, he leaned toward her and breathed in the sweet scent of Laurie’s arousal. His mouth was on her almost immediately, licking the abundance of juices already dripping from her sweet pussy and moaning as he lifted his head to her hard and swollen clit. When he reached that delicate morsel, he sucked it into his mouth and bit down on it gently as his fingers pumped into her wetness, looking for and finding that sweet spot that would send her over the edge. Laurie’s muffled scream made him smile against her pussy. He knew she was trying to be quiet so that the rest of the ranch didn’t hear them, but she was fighting a losing battle. He wasn’t going to stop until she either screamed his name, or passed out from the pleasure. Whichever came first. No pun intended. Standing up, he took his cock in hand and guided himself to her warm and weeping channel, groaning at the tightness that the butt plug created within her, gently pushing inside her until their bodies met and held. Looking down at her sated expression, he waited until she became more aware and smiled up at him before he started a slow and torturous glide in and out of her sweet body. Reaching down, he gathered some of her cream and circled her clit, giving just the right amount of pressure to build her back up to peak level before quickening his pace and pushing her over the edge once again. He held himself still inside her as her body’s waves of contractions stroked his cock, and he breathed deeply to try to stay his own orgasm. Pulling out of her slowly made them both groan. With strength that amazed Laurie, he easily lifted her and turned her until she was face down on his desk with her backside tipped up toward him, showing him her pink star and the bottom of the hot pink plug that peeked out from her virgin ass. Just knowing that he would be the first to enter her there made his chest tighten in excitement. Reaching down, he carefully eased his thumb and index finger into her tight hole and gripped the bottom of the plug to pull it partway out of her body, then pushed it back in, jolting a spike of pleasure through her body.

Laurie’s Loves

271

Laurie’s constant moans of approval made him smile. He wanted her to enjoy this experience. An experience he hoped they would repeat often. He pulled the plug free from her body and carefully dropped it to the floor before taking his cock in hand and pressing the tip to her already stretched hole. He was glad his cock was already covered in her juices and her hole was already filled with lube, so he wouldn’t hurt her. He hesitated a moment, taking a deep breath and praying he could go slow enough so that she would enjoy this first time. “Push out, baby,” he whispered, stroking her back gently as he lined up his painfully hard erection against her sweet body. He smiled as she followed his instructions and felt her body accepting him. The head of his cock sank slowly into her, and he groaned as he watched her body swallow him with ease. It was a tight fit, but he was careful to rock his way in until he was balls deep. Laurie groaned and reached up to entwine the fingers of his left hand with hers as he leaned over her to gently hold her close to his chest. “So full,” she moaned, breathing heavily. He stilled all movement, waiting for her body to adjust to the thickness of his cock. The butt plug had helped in stretching her, but his cock was by far much longer and wider, and he refused to hurt her. “Are you all right, baby?” he whispered against the back of her neck. “Yes,” her voice was barely above a whisper. “Please move,” she pleaded, pushing back against his body so that his hips rested tightly against her. Jace was more than happy to oblige. He pulled nearly all the way out before carefully sliding back deep inside of her. The lube they had filled her with when they had inserted the butt plug earlier eased his way. The added coating of her crème helped to make the ride a smooth one. Reaching under her body, he gathered juices that were leaking from her pussy and swirled his finger around her already sensitive clit. With each thrust of his cock, he grazed her clit, increasing the pressure as his movements became harder and deeper. He refused to let go until she found her release. Looking down, he couldn’t stop the growl from escaping him as he saw his cock disappear into her body. He leaned over her, lying down against her back, whispering in her ear.

272

Lynnette Bernard

“Come for me, Laurie,” he commanded as he pushed hard against her clit and simultaneously bit down on her shoulder over his mating mark. Laurie screamed his name as wave after wave of pleasure crashed through her body, tightening every muscle in her body in complete rapture. Her muscles squeezed down on Jace’s cock, and he was lost. His orgasm barreled through him, and he yelled out her name as his seed erupted from his body and filled Laurie’s exquisitely tight back hole. Laurie lay against the desk, fighting to control her breathing. Jace lay against her back, willing his heart to stop racing, kissing her back tenderly as he stroked her face and arms to gently coax her down from her orgasm. When his cock unknotted and finally softened, he was able to slowly pull from her body, smiling at the moan that left her lips as he did so. He sat back on his chair, bringing her body with him to turn her so that she sat sideways on his lap. He cradled her possessively in his arms. Laurie laid her head on his chest, leaning up to kiss his neck gently as he pulled her tighter toward him. “I love you, Jace,” she whispered, petting his chest lightly. “I love you, honey,” he told her after a bit. He was having a hard time keeping the overwhelming emotions in check as he felt the total joy of finally finding and holding their mate. They were both sweaty and smelled of sex. Jace’s seed was leaking from Laurie’s body and was pooling on his legs, but neither seemed to notice or care.

Laurie’s Loves

273

Chapter 26 The calm and casual normalcy of the next two days did a lot to eliminate the tension that had surrounded all of them because of Patrick’s attack. The fact that Patrick was being held without bail and was awaiting arraignment made them all breathe a sigh of relief. If all went well, they wouldn’t have to deal with him for a very long time. Jace was glad to see that Mia and Dean had become comfortable within their pack. He was glad that they, along with Mitchell, had adhered to his rules regarding keeping in contact with him whenever they were away from home. Mitchell’s happiness at finding out that his triad partner was Dean also made the ranch a happy place to be. Jace’s talk with Dean about what exactly being a triad partner meant had gone well. He was impressed, not only by the maturity of the young man, but also by his acceptance of the shifter world and how it would affect his future. Jace was especially proud of the calm acceptance Dean had of the way any children Dean and Mitchell would have with their future triad mate would genetically belong to all three of them. Dean had talked with Doc on several occasions in order to totally understand the shifter world and the relationship between triad partners and their mates. He had proven to be the right person for such an unusual circumstance. Once again, the Fates knew what they were doing in choosing Dean. It seemed that Mia’s fate within the pack was also growing. Jace knew that, in time, her future destiny would be revealed as well. Laurie’s contentment seemed to blanket the rest of them with happiness. He and Jackson were calmer now that she was with them. They drew strength from her in ways that they never would have thought possible. In soothing the men, she had calmed their wolves.

274

Lynnette Bernard

The children of the pack gravitated toward Laurie, and she welcomed and loved them all. She had proven herself to be a natural alpha mate and a gentle but firm leader who had earned the respect and caring of all of them. Jace looked out across the open expanse of the yard as he stood on the back deck. He watched as Mia and Dean worked with pack members to decorate the deck with streamers and balloons. Martha and Julia bustled around, setting up plates and cups and napkins while Nikki showed Alexander and Butler where to place the giant cooler of iced tea. They were all excited to surprise Laurie with this birthday celebration. “Do you think Mom has any idea what we’re planning?” Mia’s voice drew his attention. He turned to smile down at the young woman and shook his head. “I don’t think she has a clue,” he told her honestly. “She’s been so busy helping with pack business, she falls into bed exhausted every night.” “She’s happy,” Mia told him, nodding. “I’ve never seen her so happy.” Jace smiled, unable stop the feeling of joy that spread through him. “I’m glad,” he said finally. “I want her to be happy.” He looked at Mia very seriously. “She has brought more joy and love into our lives than we could have ever hoped for. We love her very much, Mia.” “You’d better,” Dean spoke up as he stepped up behind his sister. “We do,” Jackson said, his voice strong, as he walked up to stand next to Jace, placing his hand on his alpha’s shoulder. Mia looked at both men, then back at Dean before returning her attention to them. “She loves you, too,” she said finally. “She belongs here with you. She deserves the happiness that you two give her.” Jackson’s million dollar smile lit his face, and he reached out to grab a strand of Mia’s soft brown hair to tug it teasingly. “Thanks, honey,” he told her honestly. Mia blushed at the unaccustomed kindness, unsure how to handle it. Thankfully, Dean stepped forward and bridged the awkwardness for her as he always did. “Come on, lazy,” he teased as he pushed her toward the sliding glass door that lead inside. “Let’s get the rest of the food and set everything out so we can finally get Mom and surprise her.” “Okay, okay,” Mia protested. “You don’t have to go shoving me all over the place.”

Laurie’s Loves

275

“Quiet, brat,” Dean teased, winking at Jace and Jackson as he passed them to follow Mia into the kitchen. “Where is Mom anyway?” Mia asked as they all gathered in the kitchen, waiting for Martha to hand them the platters of food. “She’s upstairs, lying down,” Jackson told them quietly, smiling at the thought of Laurie resting, unaware of the reason she was so tired lately. Of course, all their lovemaking could be a contributing factor, too. Jace smiled at him knowingly. “I hope she’s okay,” Mia worried. Martha smiled and turned away so she wouldn’t let the children see the pure joy she knew had to be evident on her face. Stepping toward the sink, she took a deep breath to calm herself and was immediately filled with a scent that sent her heart pounding as fear seized her. “Jace, Jackson,” she whispered, turning around to face the men immediately. They looked at her with full smiles that disappeared instantly when they saw the horror in her expression. Her face had lost color, and she was clutching the counter to steady herself. “What’s wrong, Martha?” Jackson asked immediately, he and Jace stepping toward her and reaching out to take her arms to steady her. Martha turned and reached into the sink to lift the teaspoon that lay there. Holding it up to Jace, she had to blink back tears as he leaned forward to breathe in the strong scent that was mixed with the sweet smell of cinnamon and apples. “Wolfsbane,” he growled, turning his attention back to Martha. She nodded, and tears filled her eyes as she realized he didn’t understand the significance of the spoon. “The spoon also has the scent of the tea Laurie drinks,” she explained. “Someone put wolfsbane in Mom’s tea?” Mia asked, stepping forward. “Will that hurt her?” Martha never took her eyes off Jace and Jackson. “It’s a poison that’s particularly deadly to wolves but is very dangerous to humans as well, depending on the amount used. I don’t know if it will affect her more seriously now that she has mated to you both,” she began, her chest hurting with the pain that was slamming through her chest. “But it will definitely kill the baby.”

276

Lynnette Bernard

Both men turned as one and ran from the kitchen, barreling through the ranch to take the steps two at a time as they raced toward their mate. They could hear everyone running behind them, but they didn’t care about anything except getting to Laurie. They tried to sense her life force, but they couldn’t feel her. That scared them, nearly shattering them as they neared the door to their bedroom. Laurie! Both men called to her repeatedly through their bond as they ran toward their bedroom. But only silence greeted them. Jace flung open the bedroom door, Jackson right behind him. Laurie was lying on their bed. They barely breathed as they walked to the side of the bed to look down at her. Watching her for any movement of life, they were frozen in fear as they watched her lying so peacefully on her back, one hand at her cheek, the other resting on her stomach as if she knew she needed to protect their unborn daughter. Mia walked over to the end table and looked down at the cup of cold tea that sat there. “Do you think she drank any of it?” she barely whispered. She looked at Dean, agony in her eyes at the thought of losing their mother. Their mother was the person who had always loved them unconditionally and the one who had protected them with every ounce of her being. The fact that someone was trying to take her away from them made Mia freeze in fear. Dean’s own fear consumed him. He stepped toward the bed and looked down at their mother. “Mom?” he called to her loudly, his voice cracking with emotion when she ignored his words. “What’s going on?” a voice called from the doorway. They turned as one toward the door to see Janine standing there with another cup of tea in her hands. Jace and Jackson’s growls filled the room as they lurched toward her and threw her against the wall. Jace’s hand tightened around her throat, somehow managing to keep control of himself and not kill her immediately. Jackson grabbed the tea cup from her and smashed it against the wall. “What have you done?” Jace growled in her face. Janine’s face paled in fear. “I didn’t do anything, Alpha,” she croaked out, barely able to breathe, let alone form words.

Laurie’s Loves

277

“Did you think killing our mate with poison in her tea would go unpunished?” Jackson growled, his right hand morphing into deadly claws that reached up, ready to shred Janine’s throat. “Poison!” Janine’s painful gasp made Jackson pause. “I just brought her the tea. Vera said Laurie wasn’t feeling well and asked me to bring her the tea.” Tears were falling freely from her eyes by now. “I thought it smelled funny, but Vera said it was the special blend in the tea that would help settle Laurie’s stomach.” Jace slowly removed his hand from Janine’s throat. There was no scent of deception surrounding her. Turning toward his men, his eyes glowed golden as his wolf fought for freedom. “Get Vera.” His voice was filled with rage. “Put her in the detention cabin. If I go near her right now, I’ll rip her to pieces.” Alexander and Butler nodded and turned, leaving the room immediately to locate Vera. She was going to deserve every bit of punishment she received for this blatant attack. Her cruel coldness had made her act out against their queen. She was completely responsible for her actions. She would not be forgiven for trying to kill the mate of the alpha and beta, or their unborn child. No mercy would be shown this evil woman. Jace turned and looked at Jackson with desolation in his eyes. He had fought against having a mate. Now his heart was breaking at the real possibility of the loss of the wonderful woman who had been gifted to them by the Fates. Jackson reached out and touched Jace’s shoulder, then turned to walk toward the bed. He climbed onto one side while Jace climbed onto the other to lie carefully next to Laurie and gently take her in their arms. “Laurie, baby,” Jace whispered against her temple. “Please wake up, sweetheart.” Laurie remained still between them. Her breathing was slow and steady, which made them both relax a bit. They leaned closer to her, sharing their warmth with her as they wrapped their arms around her torso and held her tightly against them. “We need you to open your eyes, darlin’,” Jackson whispered softly, kissing her cheek lightly and nuzzling into her neck. Carefully placing their hands on her belly, they joined forces as they reached deep inside themselves to talk to their baby.

278

Lynnette Bernard Baby, please let Papa know you’re okay, Jace’s pleading voice called to

her. Sweetheart, you need to let Daddy know you’re still there. Jackson’s voice broke with emotion as he linked his mind with Jace’s to search for their baby’s heartbeat and life force. A warmth filled both men as they were surrounded with the vision of Laurie sitting on the couch in the den with both of them on either side of her while their daughter nursed at her mama’s breast. Jace was reaching forward and tenderly stroking his fingertips over their daughter’s head and Jackson was holding her hand as it rested against Laurie’s face. Jackson. I know, Jace. I see it, too. Their voices were raw with emotion at the relief that their baby was all right. The vision that they would share such intimate moments with Laurie filled them with happiness. Leaning in toward Laurie, they nuzzled into her neck and kissed it lightly. Their soft growls vibrated against her, calling to her to come awake. After what seemed like an eternity, Laurie began to stir, stretching against her men as they held her between them. Reaching up, she touched their faces and gently caressed their cheeks. Opening her eyes, she let out a gasp of surprise as she saw the group of people who surrounded their bed. “What’s going on?” she asked worriedly. “Is everything okay?” Jace nuzzled into her neck and breathed in her scent. Her very pregnant scent. He leaned back to look down at her, smiling at the sight of Jackson taking a deep breath to reassure himself of the presence of their baby. “It is now,” Jace told her, smiling down at her. “Did you drink any of that tea?” Jackson asked her worriedly, indicating the cup that sat on the bedside table. Laurie looked at it quickly then leaned back against her pillow. “No, I was too tired after Janine left. And I felt a little nauseous, so I had to lie down to take a nap.” She leaned forward until her face was touching both men’s chins. “I closed our bond so you wouldn’t feel how sick to my stomach I was. I didn’t want to worry you or make you feel sick. Please don’t be mad that I tried to shield you.” “We’ll talk about that later.” Jace growled against her ear, kissing her neck gently before leaning back to look down at her.

Laurie’s Loves

279

The bed moved, and Laurie looked up to see Mia and Dean climbing onto the bed at her feet and move their way up so they could lie beside her. She saw the fear in their eyes as they both leaned their heads against her forehead. “I’m glad you’re okay, Mom,” Dean whispered, his voice breaking at the emotion that he finally allowed to escape. “Why wouldn’t I be okay?” she asked, confused, holding her kids tightly against her body. “Because that bitch Vera tried to poison you,” Mia told her angrily. She turned toward Jace and Jackson as they sat against the headboard. “I hope you’re going to kick some serious ass!” Jace nodded, his expression thunderous. “That woman is going to pray she was never born,” he promised. “Why would she want to poison me?” Laurie’s stunned voice broke into their conversation. Martha reached forward and took the tea cup from the side table. “Let’s go downstairs, everyone,” she told the concerned but relieved group. “We have things to do before Laurie comes down for dinner.” Martha nodded toward the door, waiting until Mia and Dean removed themselves from the bed once they kissed their mother’s cheeks and whispered that they loved her. The older woman shooed everyone out and closed the door behind them. Laurie watched everyone go, confused and a little afraid. “Does Vera hate me that much?” she whispered, tears filling her eyes. Jackson moved back down to lie beside Laurie, quickly taking her in his arms and holding her gently. Jace lowered his body next to hers and reached up to tenderly stroke her cheek with the back of his index finger. “You don’t have to worry about her anymore,” Jace told her, his voice strong. “She’ll never be able to hurt you again.” “But why?” Laurie protested. The men looked at each other and sighed. They were worried that she wouldn’t be happy with what they had to tell her. Slowly, very slowly, they each brought a hand to her belly and tenderly touched it. Laurie’s brow furrowed in confusion. “You guys are scaring me,” she whispered.

280

Lynnette Bernard

“You have nothing to be afraid of, honey,” Jackson reassured her. “This is a beautiful gift.” “What do you mean?” Jace closed his eyes and concentrated on the baby growing within their mate’s womb. He could feel their daughter’s happiness as she cuddled into the safe warmth of Laurie’s body. Allowing his connection to their child to be shared through their bond, he felt Jackson’s happiness and Laurie’s shock at the feeling their baby was sharing with them. “Our daughter is growing inside you, Laurie,” Jace whispered, looking down at her and smiling tenderly. Laurie’s shock quickly turned to instant fear, and she pushed out of their arms and jumped from the bed, turning to face them immediately, her breath coming in quick heaving bursts. “No,” she whispered, tears falling down her face. “I can’t.” “Baby, what do you mean you can’t?” Jackson asked her, standing slowly and walking toward her with utmost care, as if she would bolt at any movement he made. “You can, and you are. And we’re very happy that you’re pregnant.” “No, you aren’t.” Laurie’s panicked voice stopped his forward movement. “You’ll hate me for taking care of the baby and not giving you enough of my time.” Jace walked toward her and reached out to take her hand gently. “Don’t compare us to Patrick. That’s not fair to us,” he told her firmly. “We won’t resent you for your time with our baby. We’ll be right there with you taking care of her. And the entire pack is your family now. You won’t be alone. You won’t be exhausted taking care of our baby without help. We’ll all be there with you, honey.” Jackson stepped forward and reached down to place his hand gently over her belly. “Do you have any idea how much we’re looking forward to feeling our baby moving inside of you? Do you understand that we will love and protect our little one with everything that we are? Please, Laurie, don’t be afraid. This is a very good thing that’s happening to us.” Laurie looked at both men with hesitation. She wanted to believe them. She wanted to experience the beauty of her pregnancy and the birth of her child with men who wanted the baby. She hesitated. She was afraid, but she

Laurie’s Loves

281

had to admit that she wanted their baby, and she wanted them to be a part of the ups and downs of raising a child. Stepping back out of their embrace, she looked from one man to the other, then reached down and gently covered her belly with her hands. They could see the fear in her eyes, but they also saw the spark of hope that was there, too. “How can you be sure I’m pregnant?” she asked finally. “Your scent is different,” Jace answered immediately. Laurie’s eyebrows rose in surprise. “Really?” Jace nodded. “You smell so wonderful, Laurie,” he told her honestly. “I thought your scent was amazing before, but now it’s filled with our daughter as well.” “How do you know it’s a girl?” Jackson stepped toward her and smiled down at her as he watched her hands gently caressing her stomach. “Our daughter sent us a vision when we were holding you as you slept the other night.” “She did?” Laurie’s voice was filled with awe. “Is that normal? For a baby to be able to do that?” Jace shook his head and stepped toward her, wrapping his arms around her and kissing the top of her head. “No, it’s not,” he admitted. “It just shows us how special our bond is and how amazing our daughter is.” Jackson nuzzled into the crook of her neck, kissing her lightly. Opening his memory to Laurie and Jace, he sent them the beautiful scene of their daughter giggling in his and Jace’s arms. Laurie’s gasp at the realness of the vision made his heart happy. Jackson could sense Jace’s complete joy at the memory and knew Laurie could feel their honest emotions about what they had been gifted. “She’s beautiful,” Laurie whispered, looking up at both men in awe at what she had seen. “Just like her mama,” Jackson told her happily. Laurie gasped and covered her hands over her mouth as emotions rushed up and spilled out of her. Both men surrounded her with their love, and she could feel the rightness of the three of them making their baby. She experienced the honest love and happiness her men had felt as they held their daughter and cuddled her against their chests. Having a child with them would be a wonderful thing. She just knew it.

282

Lynnette Bernard

She must have let her feelings transmit through their bond, because both men growled possessively before holding her tightly against their bodies. She couldn’t prevent the feeling of pure joy that bubbled up within her from escaping in a giggle of pure delight. “I think I need to take you both back to bed and make love to you for the rest of the day,” she told them happily. Both men groaned at the thought of an afternoon of loving. But it wasn’t meant to be. There were more than one hundred people waiting on the back lawn to surprise their mate for her birthday. “As much as we would love to keep you in bed for the next few days, we have to bring you outside so the pack can be officially informed about our baby,” Jace told her honestly, unable to prevent the instant flash of the surprise birthday party from reaching her through her bond. “There’s a birthday party for me?” Laurie asked, astonished. “Way to go, Jace,” Jackson groused. “I couldn’t help it,” Jace protested. “I was distracted by the thought of having Laurie naked beneath us for the next few days.” Laurie smiled at both men, sending them a vision of several sexual positions that she wanted to experience with them as soon as they could find time to be alone again. Both men’s cocks went rock hard instantly. Laurie felt immediate satisfaction at their arousal. “Oh hell,” Jackson moaned. It was going to be a long afternoon.

Laurie’s Loves

283

Epilogue Laurie moved awkwardly in the lounge chair as she sat on the back deck. The darkness of the night surrounded her with a sense of peace as she waited patiently for her men to emerge from their run. She shifted carefully, trying to find just the right position to ease her discomfort. Rubbing her hands over her tightening belly, she smiled as the baby pushed against her touch. “Hello to you, too, sweetheart,” Laurie whispered, emotions overwhelming her as she thought about the baby she was carrying and the love Jace and Jackson showed her daily. “How did I ever get so lucky?” Her voice broke at her question. Just thinking about her life now made tears come to her eyes. Mia and Dean had gone off to the same university in September. Mitchell was attending his first year at the local community college and would be transferring to Mia and Dean’s university at the beginning of their sophomore year. For now, the three of them were sharing an off campus apartment. Jace had explained to Laurie that Mitchell and Dean needed to be close in order to strengthen their triad partnership. Both Jace and Jackson were happy that Mia would be under the young men’s protection, although Mia had proven herself to be an alpha female in her own right. They couldn’t be prouder of all of them. Laurie still counted her blessings that they were safe and doing what they wanted to in order to follow their dreams. The pack’s acceptance of them was instant and total. All three had kept their promise to Jace and texted him every day to check in with him. She loved to see the smile on Jace’s face as he viewed their texts and quickly typed his name to send them back his confirmation that he knew they were safe. She knew his happiness at receiving their texts wasn’t because Mia, Dean, and Mitchell were following their alpha’s order. It was because his children were sending him

284

Lynnette Bernard

the messages. Seeing Jace and Jackson so happy that the children belonged to them made tears fill Laurie’s eyes. Leaving her teaching job had been a difficult decision to make, but she was sure that she had a more important job to do within the pack. Her role in the pack made her feel needed, but more importantly, it made her feel like she belonged somewhere for the first time in her life, and she looked forward to every day. Her pregnancy had also been a major factor in her decision. Nothing was more important than the well-being of their baby. Jace and Jackson were there every step of the way, supporting her decisions and showing her daily that they truly wanted to be a part of every aspect of her pregnancy. There wasn’t a day that went by without them telling her and showing her how much they appreciated every moment of their life together. The way they enjoyed her being pregnant was almost unreal. Every movement of the baby, every change in her body, every emotion she felt, they shared along with her. And she finally allowed herself accept that they truly were in it for the long haul. Looking up, she saw the two wolves appearing from the surrounding trees and trotting up to the deck. As they leaped up the stairs and made their way over to her, she couldn’t stop the feelings of warmth that swept through her body. She reached out her arms and waited for them to carefully climb onto the chair with her and gently lower their heads to her distended belly. She laughed as they nuzzled against their baby and reached up to gently stroke through their soft fur, starting at their heads and running her hands soothingly down their silky pelts. “Did you have a nice run?” she asked them, smiling down at their gentle eyes as they looked up at her. Yes, baby. How are you feeling? Jackson’s gentle voice spoke through their bond. “I’m a little uncomfortable,” she answered honestly. “I’ve been having contractions for a while.” What? Jace’s panicked voice shouted through her head, making her jump in surprise. There was a shimmer of blue around the wolves, and she found herself surrounded by two naked and very worried mates.

Laurie’s Loves

285

“Why didn’t you call to us, Laurie?” Jace admonished, reaching out to touch her belly gently, gasping when he felt the tightening of her muscles as another contraction took hold. “How far apart are the contractions?” “Baby, you really need to stop trying to shield us from your pains,” Jackson scolded her, counting in his head until he felt her stomach soften under his hands after a minute. “I’m sorry,” Laurie apologized sincerely. “I just wanted to make sure that it wasn’t false labor before I said something.” “How far apart?” Jace asked her again, his voice firm, rubbing her belly soothingly as he tried to offer her whatever comfort he could. “The last one was five minutes ago,” she answered quietly. “I think I need to go upstairs.” She made the effort to stand when both men reached forward to carefully pull her up until she stood beside them. As soon as she found her footing, she felt a gush of liquid escape her, coating them all in the warmth of amniotic fluid. She reached for their arms as she looked up at them with tears in her eyes, a horrified expression on her face. “I’m so sorry,” she whispered, barely able to get out the words. “For what, baby?” Jackson asked her as he held her to his body. “For gushing all over you,” she told them, the tears spilling over as embarrassment overwhelmed her. Jace reached up to place his finger under her chin to make her look up at him. “Laurie, please listen to me.” He waited until her eyes met his before continuing. “Every change that your body has gone through with this pregnancy has been a source of joy to us. We love every moment of this miracle. What’s happening now is just as precious to us. The fluid that just escaped your body has protected our baby for the past forty weeks. There is nothing embarrassing or upsetting to us that we felt its warmth.” “Open your bond to us, honey,” Jackson told her gently as he leaned down to kiss her temple. “You’ll feel exactly what we’re feeling.” Laurie closed her eyes and released the box she had been keeping closed around her emotions so the men wouldn’t know she was in labor. What greeted her when her emotions touched theirs was a feeling so filled with love and happiness that her worries were immediately calmed. Another pain gripped her, and she gasped as she doubled over with the power of the contraction.

286

Lynnette Bernard

“Talk. Later. Bedroom. Now.” Her words were clipped as the pain of the contraction overwhelmed her. Jackson’s panic almost made her laugh. Almost. Jace leaned down and scooped her up into his arms, rushing toward the sliding glass doors that led inside the ranch. Jackson slid it open quickly, following them both through the kitchen, the main room, and up the steps to their bedroom. “Martha, get Doc Barrett and Nikki,” Jackson shouted as they passed her in the kitchen. Martha nodded and ran to the phone. It was time. The baby would soon be born. Martha’s eyes filled with tears of happiness that her two adopted sons were about to become fathers. Pushing open their bedroom door, Jackson rushed to their bed and pulled back the bedding. Jace stepped forward to lay their precious mate down, but she stopped him with a gentle hand on his chest. “What, sweetheart?” he whispered, unsure what to do. “Please take me into the shower. I need to stand to get through the contractions, and the warm water will help me relax.” Jace nodded and turned quickly toward the bathroom, glad to have Jackson there to start the shower and help him undress Laurie then help her into the enclosure. Both men went with her, Jace suddenly glad that he had made the decision to have such a big shower built when he had designed their suite. They immediately surrounded her with their arms as she hung onto them and bent over slightly as each contraction took her. They rocked her and gently rubbed her back and belly as her labor intensified. “Laurie?” Doc Barrett’s voice called to them from the bedroom. “In here, Doc,” Jackson called out. Doc came into the bathroom quickly, standing outside the enclosure, waiting for Laurie’s contraction to subside. Nikki stood by his side, waiting to help. “How far apart?” he asked quietly. “About two minutes,” Jace said quickly. “She’s progressed pretty quickly.” Doc nodded quietly, and both men were comforted by his calm. Nikki reached for the large bath towel that hung on the warming rack beside the shower stall. “How’re you doing, Laurie?” Nikki asked her as she waited to wrap the towel around her best friend.

Laurie’s Loves

287

“I’m good,” Laurie whispered, “but I already feel like I have to push.” “I think we’d better get you to the bed, Laurie,” Doc told her calmly. “I would say you’re pretty close to delivering.” Laurie nodded and sagged against her men as the last contraction finally released its hold on her body. “Help me?” she whispered, looking up at both men. “Always,” Jace answered immediately. “With everything I am,” Jackson vowed as he helped her step out of the shower. Taking the towel from Nikki, Jackson wrapped it carefully around Laurie’s body before bending and lifting her in his arms and heading toward their bedroom. “Jace, please get me the shirts on the back of the door,” Laurie moaned as another contraction took her. Jace looked behind the bathroom door and grabbed the two shirts that hung from the peg there. Without hesitating, he followed them into the bedroom and stood back as Jackson lowered her to stand beside the bed. Very carefully, Jackson took the towel from her body and began to carefully wipe her down. “Give me your shirt,” Laurie told Jace, reaching out and taking his black T-shirt that she had worn so many months ago when she had fallen into the stream. Once he helped her lift the shirt over her head and settle it down the length of her body, she reached for the red flannel shirt that belonged to Jackson and quickly put her arms through the sleeves. Both men smiled down at her, all the love they had for her shining in their eyes. That she wanted their shirts on during the birth of their baby touched them in a way they could never have imagined. “Are you ready to get into bed now, Mate?” Jace teased her, reaching up to touch her face gently. She nodded, smiling at the two men who had given her so much happiness, and settled back against the pile of pillows that had been set up for her so she could sit at a bit of an incline while she delivered their baby. The men took their places at her sides, pulling the shirts she was wearing to her hips and gently holding her legs beneath the back of her knees. The feel of their strong hands on her soothed her, and she leaned back against them

288

Lynnette Bernard

as they carefully pulled back on her legs and helped her to hold them in place while Doc Barrett examined her. “The baby is already crowning, Laurie,” Doc told her calmly. “With the next contraction, I want you to push as hard as you can.” Laurie nodded and took a deep breath as the next contraction hit her, bearing down with all her strength. Her mates helped her to sit up, and she was thankful for their strength as each push took more and more energy out of her. They could see Doc’s hands reach forward, and then Laurie gave a final push. Their baby entered the world in a rush of fluid. Both men couldn’t stop the tears that were falling freely down their faces. “Would you like to cut the cord?” Doc asked them, offering each of them an instrument. Laurie smiled at both men as they carefully took the scissors from Doc and reached forward to make the necessary cut to the umbilical cord. When they looked at her, she saw the way they were overcome with emotions, and her heart swelled with love for them. Watching Doc carefully wrap their crying daughter in a blanket and hand her to Nikki, they were overcome with the miracle of what had just happened. Nikki cleaned off the baby quickly and wrapped her in a clean blanket. Both men watched silently as she checked the baby’s heart and respiration efficiently, thankful for her nursing skills. Nikki smiled widely at the strength of the baby, walking back to Laurie and placing the sweet little girl on her chest. Tears filled her eyes as she saw that her best friend was finally a part of the most loving family she had ever seen. “Congratulations, honey,” Nikki told her, reaching out and touching Laurie’s face gently. “You did good.” “She’s beautiful,” Laurie whispered, tears falling down her cheeks as she looked down at her daughter. Both men leaned down and kissed her forehead gently, reaching out with careful hands to touch their daughter’s cheeks. The adorable face she made as she scrunched up her lips and let out a howl of protest at being taken from the warmth of her mother’s body made them smile. “She’s perfect,” Jackson whispered. “Yes. She is.” Jace’s voice was rough with emotion.

Laurie’s Loves

289

Laurie looked from their daughter to the men who had helped create her and couldn’t stop the love and warmth that poured from her and surrounded them through her bond. They smiled down at her, accepting and returning their love. “Thank you for our daughter,” Jace whispered, leaning down to kiss Laurie’s lips tenderly. Laurie smiled and leaned into his touch. Jackson held her against his side tightly, leaning down to claim her lips as soon as Jace released her. “Thank you, Laurie,” Jackson spoke against her ear, unable to say more. **** Laurie sat on the cushion in the middle of the couch in front of the fireplace. Both men sat on either side of her, reaching out to touch their daughter, holding her hand and petting her hair as she fed at Laurie’s breast. “She’s getting so big,” Laurie said quietly as she looked down at their five-month-old daughter. She looked up at both men and winked. “You both make beautiful babies.” Jace smiled as he moved to kneel before her and watch his daughter suckle at Laurie’s breast, reaching up to trace his index finger across its gentle swell. “It was definitely our pleasure, sweetheart.” “You just let us know when you’re ready to make another,” Jackson told her, winking playfully. “Do you think you want to make another baby with us?” Laurie laughed and reached out to touch each man’s face tenderly. “I think that would be a wonderful idea,” she told them, smiling at the instant growls that escaped them. “I think we need to practice every day. What do you think?” The absolutely feral expression of desire that consumed both men made her heart do a funny flip. Without hesitation, she sent them a vision of the three of them in their bed, a mass of arms and legs entangled as they loved each other. “Aw, hell!” Jackson moaned against her temple. Jace laughed, reaching out and hugging Laurie to him as he placed gentle kisses across her available breast. “I agree, Jackson,” he growled.

290

Lynnette Bernard

Laurie smiled down at Jace, reaching up to gently card her fingers through his midnight black hair, the delicate bracelet with the charm of her and her two wolves dangling against his neck as she caressed him. It was a beautiful symbol of their life together. Leaning back, she offered Jackson her lips and sighed contentedly as he tenderly claimed hers. She was happier than she had ever been in her life, thanks to the two men who had given her unconditional love and acceptance. Her mates. Her loves.

THE END WWW.LYNNETTEBERNARD.COM [email protected]

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Lynnette Bernard is a fan of Broadway, the ocean, science fiction, romance, music, movies, books, and babies. She has two babies of her own that were the perfect children, who have turned out to be outstanding adults. She is a staunch advocate of “happily ever after” and changes the endings of any movie that she sees or book that she reads that doesn’t follow that rule. She has the hots for cowboys, shifters, vampires, and really nice guys, and lives her fantasies about them through her writings. The cowboys of Colorado will always hold a special place in her heart.

Siren Publishing, Inc. www.SirenPublishing.com