36 comments/ 95986 views/ 334 favorites Claimed By: dragontatto Brazil, South America As the beat of the jungle drums grew louder, Shu fought the memories of her past humiliation in the Mating Circle. Inside the circle her father, in jaguar form looking so powerful and dangerous - his dark coat gleaming, was in the process of claiming the hissing female jaguar at its center. The flickering torches cast a seductive glow over the aggressiveness of his advances. Once upon a time she'd wished for the same for herself. A powerful male stalking her and claiming her had once been her dream. But the mating circle is not meant for a half-breed such as me. Relief flooded her as her father finally pinned the female under his weight and she submitted to him. As they exited the circle, Shu cowered down, showing respect to her father's new mate. Keeping her form submissive and head lowered, she prayed inside the body of her hybrid tigress-jaguar, Maria would pass her without incident. An unexpected rake across her shoulder of Maria's deadly claws, assured her Maria did not appreciate her presence at the gathering. Flattening her ears, Shu fought to control the large white Bengal tigress. Next to his new mate, her father hissed then knocked her over. Despite the fact I've left the pride, gone away to school, and live as a human, I still cause trouble by just existing. Her father's rough tongue traced over the wound on her shoulder. Lying still she accepted his gesture of comfort as she had many times in the past. Her luxurious white coat with pale silver rosettes and dark stripes was scarred in many places from her constant battles within her own pack. She had too much pride and strength to become the beta but it hadn't stopped the others from trying to force her into the role. * * * * Picking up her bag, Shu headed for the front door of her father's home. The screams and grunts of her father and his new mate had kept her up most of the night. When they'd finally quieted at dawn, she'd fought with her promise to remain for the week celebration of her father's mating and her own desire to leave. The vibration of her pager had finally made her decision for her. "Shu, you promised to stay." Her father appeared in the doorway. His dark hair mused and his skin had several bite marks from Maria. She looked at them impassively. Possessive as always it seems. She had to mark my father as hers and take away my last tie to the pack. "I'm sorry, Dad, but an emergency has come up, one I can't ignore." He walked closer to her. "What is so important that it would make my honorable daughter break her promise?" "A xiamen tiger has been hurt. It was brought to the doctors at the Beijing zoo. Ry-lin called me. The tiger won't allow any near enough for treatment. He said they're thinking of sedating him but the tiger reeks of human. If his hunch is right, we're dealing with a hybrid and if they sedate him and he shifts..." She knew she didn't have to go further. Her dad knew the importance of keeping their secret from full-blooded humans. Sadness appeared in his eyes. "Go, Shu. Thank you for humoring me and attending the Mating Circle. I know it couldn't have been easy for you after..." "Let it rest, Dad. I'm happy with my life. I get to travel and treat all kinds of exotic animals. I am needed." He frowned. "You think you're not needed in your own pack?" "It's your pack, Dad. Yours and Maria's now. I'm a very unwelcome reminder of what happens when mating occurs outside the pack. No jaguar wants to mate me nor does any tiger, so I'll use my education and pull as a human to further our causes. Insuring the continuance of our endangered species will be a suitable replacement for not having cubs of my own." He lifted his hand and touched her cheek. From behind him the warning hiss of enraged jaguar came. His hand fell before he turned and faced his mate. "Maria, do I need to remind you again? She's my daughter." Taking advantage of his distraction, she slipped out the door. Seeing Raphael, her father's second in command and her cousin waiting, she smiled. He was one of the few aside from her father who tolerated her presence. She winced as the mating scream came from the house. Her dad was once more exerting his dominance over his new mate. Raphael shook his head. "Ready?" "Yeah. Thanks for taking me to the airport." Sliding into the Jeep, she leaned her head back against the seat and closed her eyes. The familiar smells of the jungle comforted her as they headed towards the small airstrip where she could catch a flight out and begin the journey headed towards China. * * * * The rhythmic thud of the wheels touching down in Beijing woke Shu from her light sleep. Without opening her eyes she could smell the stewardess coming down the aisle. The clicks of the overhead compartments being opened finally had her opening her eyes. The reoccurring dream of the tiger had plagued her over the last twenty- four hours and uncountable miles. The piercing amber eyes haunted her and wouldn't leave her alone. Whether it was the dream or her words to her father, they promised she was his. Standing and trying to shake off the dream, Shu grabbed her carryon and headed down the aisle. She bumped into a large Chinese man. "Bào qiàn." Her apology spoken in soft Chinese had the man pausing. When he turned and rambled off several words in Mandarin, she held up her hands laughing. "That's all I know how to say." The muscular and pale skinned man quickly switched to English. "Such a pretty lady as yourself should learn more than how to say sorry. I'm Daniel Sun." He gave her an informal bow. "Hello, Daniel. I'm Shu Rodriguez, and don't let the name fool you. I was born and raised in Brazil." "Interesting, I've been to Argentina but never Brazil. " While they waited for the line to move, he continued, "So have you come here for pleasure, Shu?" She shook her head. "No. I'm here on business. I'm a doctor – a vet. I'm here because of an injured tiger. This will be my fourth visit to the Beijing Zoo. One of these times I'm going to come over for a visit and actually get to do the tourist thing. " Daniel's eyes narrowed before his expression smoothed out. "Ah, I see. What a coincidence. I've come to here for the same reason. I have contracted a car to pick me up, why not share it?" Taking a deep breath, she smelled nothing but human. He's safe enough. As a hybrid, Shu had all the strengths of her base form. Strong and agile, if she was pitted against full-blooded humans she would have no problem defending herself and winning. "I would like that." * * * * When they pulled up in front of the Beijing Zoo, Shu was met by Ry-lin. His wide face was lit with relief. "Dr. Rodriguez, I'm so glad you could make it. Mr. Chen wants to sedate the tiger but I'm afraid it will do more good than harm," he said softly as he led her away from Daniel. Looking over his shoulder, he nodded to Daniel. "I understand. We'll see if I can work my magic on him tonight after hours." Glancing at her watch, she estimated she had just enough time to tour the other cat exhibits before they closed. She turned back to Daniel before addressing Ry-lin again. "I'd like to see this tiger after checking in on some old friends. Would you like to join me, Daniel?" On their ride over to the zoo after dropping their luggage at a small hotel, she'd found out Daniel was a protector of Xiamen tiger. At first she'd thought his words odd but shrugged it off as part of the language barrier, assuming he'd meant he was one of the people who were vital in protecting tiger's rights by holding protests and raising awareness. He seems like a nice enough man and Lord knows I haven't had any male companionship in ages. "Sure I'd love that!" Daniel joined her. "Lead the way." * * * * Daniel followed the dusky skinned doctor. What the hell kind of mess has Gregory gotten into this time and why has the zoo called in a specialist? For the love of the Goddess, I hope they haven't sedated him! Telling himself that if they had, it would've made the news had done little to help. And despite the assurances from Ry-lin, he was leery of the doctor they'd chosen. This isn't some pure bred tiger she's going to be dealing with. This is my very special brother. As they approached the first pen, he watched her easy and confident handling of the Bengal tiger. "Good afternoon." She spoke to the tiger as if it were human. Entering the cage at the back, she walked up cautiously on the large Bengal who was lying in the sun. Touching the flank, she continued to speak softly. Across the pen, Daniel noticed the young tigress who was watching Shu and the male. When it surged to its feet, Daniel readied himself to tackle the cat, who outweighed him even in his cat form. Before he could get into the pen to place himself between the cat and Shu, it pounced. "Shu!" His warning came too late. She went down under the weight of the tigress. Outside the pen, the few people who were still there screamed. He pushed at Ry-lin trying to get into the pen. "No, Daniel." "She's being attacked! Let me in there. If she's his only hope, I can't let her die!" * * * * Under the pinning weight of the tigress, Shu chuckled. "You're getting very good at pouncing Ling. You've been practicing haven't you?" "Oh yes, Shu. Lang even lets me practice on him. But the old growly bear won't admit to it." "Enough, Ling," this came from the older male. "These humans don't realize you're playing with Shu. Get off her or they will rush in with the tranq guns." "I'll have to agree with him, Ling. Let me up. After I deal with the Xiamen tiger, I'll come back and we can play away from prying eyes, okay?" "Okay!" With the spring the young tigress gave her one more push before springing away and heading back to the other side of the pen. Dusting herself off, she stood slowly. Aware of the few people who still loitered at the edge of the pen, she made a display of backing away slowly. Ling gave a roar. The people at the rail backed away quickly. "Once a show off always a showoff, Ling." "And don't you forget it." When she reached the door, she was snatched through its opening and it was slammed shut. Daniel was running his hands over her. "I'm fine Daniel." She pushed his hands away. He looked down at her and crossed his arms over his chest. "You were just attacked by a tigress and you say you're fine?" "Yes, Ling was just playing. I treated her the last time I was here–" A man in a lab coat ran up. "Thank Goddess, you're here Dr. Rodriguez. The tiger is attacking Dr Chen. Come quickly!" Pushing past Daniel, she raced after him. * * * * Sliding to a stop inside the exam room, Shu couldn't believe the pure stupidity of Chen. He was cowering in the corner and a snarling but obviously hurt tiger stood over him. Although she didn't see any blood, the crying and babbling from the doctor assured her he was still alive and very scared. I can't believe that idiot brought a wounded tiger into an exam room. If I told him ten times, I've told him a hundred,' caging in' a hurt animal is a sure way to lose a limb. "What have you done?" Her voice was low enough the doctor could hear it but not loud enough to startle the cat. "Get him...off...of...me." Chin's voice trembled with fear. Looking up quickly, she saw Ry-lin through the glass observation room. He gave a quick thumbs up, letting her know he'd switched off the recording equipment. It was safe for her to begin. Pulling deep within her, she let a rumble fill her chest. As it escaped, the unexpected sound of her natural call filled the air. A mixture of the jaguar's cough and the Bengal's purr sounded oddly sensual to cats and Shu knew it. She only hoped it would grab the attention of the injured male. With a warning hiss at the cowering doctor, the male limped back and turned to face her. He was favoring his right foreleg. Shock rolled over her as the tiger's eyes met hers. It's the tiger from my dream! She swayed on her feet with the realization but held it together by sheer willpower. Passing out from shock wouldn't help Dr Chen. Issuing another low purr, she backed towards the door. Her intent was to get the injured male to follow her out of the exam room and allow Dr Chen to be rescued. The door opened behind her. The tiger limped closer to her, obviously intrigued by the sounds coming from her chest. "Let me deal with him, Shu. I've handled him before. Injured tigers are notorious for attacking..." Daniel's voice was insistence. Finally frustrated with his interference she looked over at him. "Daniel, I know what the Hell I'm doing, back off." He gripped her arm, hard. "You have no clue what you're dealing with, Shu!" A roar ripped free of the tiger and he lunged at Daniel. "Let go." She shoved him away and met the tiger head on. Daniel's cry rang out. "Gregory, no!" Going down for the second time in less than twenty minutes, Shu was at end of her patience. It's one thing to be pounced on by Ling and entirely another to have a pissed off injured tiger try to hurt some stupid human. Clinging to the soft fur at its neck, she hung on to the massive body, pitting her own strength against the male's. When he lunged at her throat, she shoved her arm up under his jaw. "Listen to me 'you hard headed son of bitch', unless you want the whole world to know about shifters, calm the fuck down, or I'll give them a show they won't soon forget!" * * * * Deep inside the tiger, Gregory stared at the woman. She smelled of tiger and was talking about shifters. Nuzzling her, he tried to determine if she was a shifter. Despite the deep pain his front leg was giving him, he could smell the intriguing smell of Bengal and something else. Something wild and he wanted to claim it as his. Straddling the woman's body, he trembled over her as she ran her hands down his heaving sides, taking care not to jar his injured leg. In the background, he could hear his brother speaking softly, reminding him of the humans watching, to move before they 'tranq'ed' him. Ignoring his brother and leaning in closer he tried to get a better smell of her. The Bengal small was fresh but the underlying smell of human soap did little to disguise the wild scent under it. It's addictive. I've got to have more of it. Pushing aside the neck of her shirt, he exposed her skin. The moment he got a deep whiff her scent, darkness swam over him. What the hell... "They tranq'ed you." The soft whisper in his head surprised him. "I claim you..." Fighting the effects of the tranquillizer, he tried to focus on her. "...as mine." * * * * Her heart racing, Shu looked over the heavy body of the tiger at Daniel. He was pale and cursing at Dr. Chen. "Get him out of here." Her voice was hoarse as the full weight of the tiger sank down on top of her. Security which had finally arrived, rushed towards Daniel. "No. Take Dr. Chen and the others out of here. Leave Daniel and Ry-lin. They can help me with the tiger." The guards looked bewildered. "Now! I'm the specialist. Dr. Chen needs rest and in his tranq'ed condition the tiger isn't going to be giving me or anyone else any trouble." They nodded their agreement. They'd seen her work in the past and knew she often worked with only Ry-lin at her side. Shu heaved a sigh of relief when they disappeared around the corner with the doctor and his assistants. "Help me with him, Ry-lin." Shoving at the large heavy body pressing against hers, she could barely move him. Ry-lin moved forward when Daniel stopped him. * * * * Daniel crouched down next to Shu and the tiger. Running his finger over the skin his brother had managed to expose, he brought it to his nose. Pulling his hybrid's sense of smell forward, he took a deep breath. The wild scent of cat was unmistakable. "You're a hybrid." Narrowing her eyes up at him Shu smiled. "If you don't help move him off me, you're going to find out all too well. And we have eyes watching. We need to move him now before the tranq effects more than the cat. If he changes in front of the camera we're going to have big issues." With a nod, he gestured to Ry-lin to help him. With a bit of grunting and a lot of cussing they finally managed to lift the three hundred and eighty pounds of sedated tiger off her. Rolling out from under him, she winced. "You're bleeding, Shu." Ry-lin was pitched low but Daniel barely caught his words. "Did my brother hurt you? Or was it the attack earlier?" She shook her head. "It's nothing. Neither tussle caused it." She turned to Ry-lin. "Do you have the room prepared?" * * * * Shu had just shut the door behind them when Daniel cursed. "Ah hell. He's changing." She turned around and watched as the tiger they'd lowered to the floor, shimmered and changed into an unconscious man. Dark skinned and slender - Daniel's brother looked nothing like him. His long black hair spread out under him, covering his features and he was naked as the day he was born. Trying to ignore the fact that her hormones jumped at the sight, she focused on the nasty wound on his right bicep, as she dropped to her knees. Ry-lin appeared at her side with clean gauze and antiseptic. Looking up at him, she took the supplies. "Thank you." Without looking up she cleansed her hands before speaking to Daniel. "I need you to hold his shoulders. This is going to hurt like a bitch." Once Daniel was in position, she dumped a generous portion of antiseptic over the wound. Gregory groggily jerked against his brother's hands. "Easy, brother, we're almost done." Daniel kept his voice low and steady. He met Shu's eyes and nodded for her to continue. Taking the gauze, she dabbed away the clotted blood and antiseptic. She frowned as the injury became clear. "This isn't a wound from a trap, Daniel. It's from a gunshot." "You hard headed son of bitch." She realized he was talking to his brother. Looking up at her, he caught her eyes. "How bad is it?" His soft question had her realizing he wasn't surprised. "Not bad, it's a flesh wound. A few stitches and he'll heal up fine." Taking the curved needle and thread from Ry-lin , she stitched him quickly and efficiently. When she was done she pressed clean gauze over it to stem the fresh trickle of blood. After wrapping a clean bandage around it, she gave him a shot of antibiotics. "Okay, I've done what I can but we've got a problem here. The tranq is going to keep him out of it for at least eight hours. We're not going to be able to keep Dr. Chen away that long." "I'll take care of it." Daniel's voice was flat. "Take care of what?" She looked up in surprise when he grabbed a clean scalpel off the tray. Shock washed over her when he slashed his own arm. "What are you doing?" She watched as he started to slip out of his clothes. Folding them neatly, he placed them next to his brother. "Our base forms are very close in size and coloring, Shu. I'll take his place. Take him back to the hotel and keep him there until the tranq wears off. Then you can bring Gregory back to retrieve me. As the Head of the Xiamen Tiger Preserve, he has the authority to transport Xiamen tigers back to the Preserve near Nanning." He pulled the tie holding his hair loose. "One other thing, Shu, if you don't mind?" "What's that?" "Once I've changed - stitch me up. I don't want to get an infection because my dumb ass brother decided to play hero instead of waiting for me." "You're asking her to stitch up a three hundred and fifty pound tiger without tranqing?" Ry-lin stepped forward. "Are you crazy?" Claimed "Actually, I'm closer to three eighty but yes I am." "Relax, Ry-lin. He'll be in complete control of his tiger. Won't you, Daniel? As the Protector you're always in control." She readied a fresh needle and thread. His words from earlier now make sense. A true protector of a pack is a truly scary thing, complete control, savagery and protectiveness in one package. God, I'm glad I'm taking the other back. The only thing worse than the protector is the Alpha of the pack. A shimmer flowed over Daniel's body as the change over took him. He gracefully moved over towards her, his gait just a bit off from the self-inflicted wound. "Lay down on your side, Daniel. It'll be easier to stitch if you're not putting any weight on it." He rolled to his side without protest. The only sign he felt her stitching was the sudden intake of breath before he relaxed. Finishing quickly, she also gave him a shot of antibiotics as an extra precaution. After cleaning up the mess and making sure Daniel was comfortable, she helped Ry-lin dress Gregory in his brother's clothing. Keeping her eyes diverted she managed to keep her touch impersonal. Deep inside her she could feel her tigress moving closer to the surface. Gregory's earlier words had awakened her hybrid and she wanted to come out and play with the tiger who'd claimed her. Sheer willpower had been the only thing keeping her from shifting in the hallway when he'd pinned her to the ground. The need had eased once he'd shifted into his human form and needed her medical attention. How the hell am I going to resist him when he's awake? Perhaps he won't remember. "Keep telling yourself that, Shu but the one thing my brother does have, is a mind like a steel trap. When he decides he wants something, he takes it." Daniel's calm voice filled her head. "That's why he's the next alpha." "Wonderful." Her sarcasm has him chuckling. * * * * Once back at the hotel, Shu helped Ry-lin carry Gregory in. Settling him on the queen sized bed in the middle of the room, didn't take much time nor did undressing him. The body difference in between him and Daniel had them holding the pants up for Gregory as they carried him. The moment they let go they dropped and pooled around his feet. Amazing that their cats are similar but their bodies are so different. "Will you be okay, Shu? I can stay if you like." Ry-lin placed the folded clothing on the small stand next to the bed. "Go home to your mate, Ry-lin. You've done enough today. The day I can't handle a cat is the day I hang up my medical bag and go back to my pack and become the beta." "I don't understand your pack, Shu. Why do they treat you so?" When she just shook her head, he placed a hand on her shoulder. "You can't let them to continue to affect you this way. What will you do when they've scarred you until you've come to the point you won't shift? Or has it already happened? In all the years I've known you, I've never once seen you in your base form." "I've a very good reason for not shifting in front of other shifters, Ry-lin." "Times are changing as our kind travel greater distances. Surely there is a pack out there which will accept you." She knew he was trying to be kind but she just didn't think she could handle another rejection. She knew the only way she'd ever be accepted into another pack would be as a mate. "Let me show you something. Peeling back the edge of her top from her shoulder, she exposed the long furrows on her shoulder. "This is what happened the last time I changed into my base form in front of other shifters. In my base form I'm damn near four hundred pounds of tigress...if you could call me that. My father's jaguar blood is stamped all over me. If any zoo or human saw me, I'd be either locked in a cage or made into a rug for some one's floor. Thanks but no thanks. I am meant to travel and care for other shifters. Mating is not for me." "We shall see about that." The groggy, masculine voice washed over her and teased her senses. Spinning around, she expected to see the man sitting up and instead saw he'd reverted back to his tiger form. It seemed as if the tranq had rather strange affects on him. "Has a Xiamenshifter ever been tranq'ed before?" she asked over her shoulder. "This one has. Gregory is always rushing in where only fools or angels dare tread. This is the third time he's been tranqed that I know of. Which is why I called both you and Daniel in; I needed you to tend his wounds and Daniel to get him out of the zoo. He'll shift back and forth until the tranquillizer finally wears completely off." "Wonderful. I guess I'll be sleeping on the floor." "Like hell." This time the voice didn't take her by surprise. Ignoring it she escorted Ry-lin to the door after assuring him once more she'd be fine and she'd call in the morning when Gregory was ready to spring Daniel from the zoo. Locking the hotel door after placing the Do Not Disturb sign out, she turned and examined the large tiger curled up on her bed. "What the hell am I going to do with you?" This time Gregory didn't answer. With a sigh, she took her cotton sleep shorts and tank top into the bathroom, leaving the door ajar so she could hear him. * * * * Lying on the bed, Gregory watched the woman who was sprawled uncomfortably in a chair through slit eyes. As his brother had predicted, he remembered everything that had occurred before Dr Chen had sedated him. He knew to the marrow of his bones, she was his. It mattered not if she was a hybrid, even though he strongly suspected she was. He wasn't letting her go either way. But until this damn tranq wears off, I'm powerless to do anything about my desire to mate with her, but there's no need for her to sleep in such an uncomfortable manner. Letting a low growl escape, he watched as she stirred. Her beautiful blue eyes opened for a moment before lowering once more. He growled a bit louder and twitched on the bed. This time she jerked upright in the chair. If he could've smiled in tiger form he would've. "Damn." Running her hand through the dark thick wavy hair, she sent it into more disarray. She now had a sleepy just loved look. Another growl escaped him. Standing up stiffly, she stumbled towards the bed. Sinking down on the edge she yawned. "What's the matter, boy? Do you need painkiller?" She rubbed the scruff of his neck with a gentle hand. "I wished I had some to give to you but being a hybrid, the locals they give regular tigers may interfere with your unique chemistry." She seemed startled when the soft purr escaped him. "Ah, I see you just wanted to be touched." It was common knowledge that tigers were very affectionate cats. Continuing to rub him down, she carefully avoided the wound on his foreleg. More purrs escaped him. Her hands felt wonderful. When they slowed, he opened his eyes to look up at her. Her own eyes were closed and she was swaying obviously exhausted but still trying to care for him. Gathering his remaining strength he spoke to her mind to mind. "Come, lay down next to me. I'm in no shape to do anything other than sleep, Shu." "But–" "Now, mate. I tire of worrying you're going to fall off the damn chair because you're exhausted. Lay down with me. I'll keep you warm the rest of the night." "Pushy male." Her mumbled reply before curling up on the bed next to him made him purr with pleasure. Such a feisty thing, she is. * * * * The sun streaming in from the open window woke Shu up. The feel of silky fur next to her had her thinking for a moment she was ten again and had crawled into her father's bed feverish after another brutal attack. Opening her eyes, hazy memories of a man's strong arms wrapping around her, holding her safe and then soft fur keeping her warm washed over her. She groaned when she heard an answering rumble from the hybrid she'd saved the day before. Fuck I've got to get up before he... "Before he does what?" A pair of human arms wrapped around her and a man's breath teased the shell of her ear. "Let go of me, Gregory." She was proud of the fact her voice remained steady. "Why, so you can run?" He took a deep breath and she could hear the rumble of his feline purr in his chest. "Damn you smell good, wild and untamed. I could roll in your scent forever." "Knock it off. I'm not your personal cache of catnip." "Hmm. You're a hybrid like me, aren't you, Shu? A tigress disguised in a sexy little human body. I want both the woman and tigress, so it only leaves one question." "Really?" Her sarcasm had little effect on him. "How hard are you going to fight me before I take what I want?" He buried his face in her hair. Using his distraction, she jerked herself free of him. Rolling off the bed, she stood standing next to her bed with hands on her hips. Even thought she managed to keep her breathing steady, there was no way she could ignore the wetness between her thighs his words had created. Fuck! I know he can smell me! "Hmmm, well if you want to I'm more than willing. But fucking in human form won't change the fact I'm going to have you in my mating circle before the week is up. You're going to be my mate." Her mouth dropped open. "You arrogant ass! What makes you think I even want to mate with you?" "My senses tell me." He rolled off the bed and stood, uncaring he was naked. Without thinking she backed up. He followed her, stalking her like the cat he was. "My hearing tells me your heart is racing." "It does when I have to deal with arrogant shifters who manage to get shot and then captured by the local zoo." "So it's anger and frustration that has your heart racing, Shu?" He continued to stalk her. Running out of room, she backed into the wall. His arms came up on either side of her head. "Is that why my nose is telling me you're creaming right now?" He leaned in and a growled as he gently raked his teeth over the swell of her shoulder. A whimper escaped her as his masculine scent washed over her and his teeth teased her. Her hands flew up to his shoulders as if to push him away, when he chose to suckle on her pulse. Curling her fingers over them she jerked him against her. The rumbling purr of satisfaction he gave wanted her to bash him up against the nearest wall but the pleasure he was offering was too tempting. Her head arched back as his mouth trailed up her neck. "Hmmm...no answer? I'll take it as a yes then." She hissed at him without thinking. Arrogant male! Spearing his hands into her tumbled hair he held her head still for his kiss. "If you try to bite me, I'll have you on all fours and mounted before you can stop me." He lowered his head. "Tigers don't do it doggy style!" He brushed his lips over hers. "But humans do." He swallowed her cry as he parted her lips with his tongue before surging in to explore hers. The erotic rub of his tongue against hers had her wrapping her arms around his neck. His hand drifted down to her breast and teased her straining nipple through the cloth of her tank top. The sudden jangle of the telephone was an irritating sound and had Gregory lifting his head and snarling. "Let me go. I have to answer it." She wiggled against him. His nostrils flared. "That is not a good way to convince me to let go, Shu." The ringing continued. "I'm serious, Gregory. The only one who has this number is the zoo." "Fuck the zoo." He pressed her back against the wall. Shoving hard against him, she half expected him to back up but despite his slender body he was like a brick wall. "Damn it, Tiger. They have your brother!" He stilled. "Why do they have Daniel?" His voice was hard. "Because after you pulled your stunt and got tranqed, I couldn't care for you at the zoo. You shift back and forth too unpredictably. Unless you want the secret to leak out about shifters, I had no other choice than to bring you back here. Daniel stayed and took you place so Dr Chen wouldn't suspect anything!" He released her. Moving across the room, she answered the phone. Behind her she could hear the rustle of clothing as Gregory hurriedly dressed. * * * * Arriving at the zoo, Shu and Gregory walked into the room where Daniel was pacing. He was edgy and wasn't in a good mood. Knowing the Dr Chen was watching, she carefully approached him. He snarled once at Gregory before calming down. After running her hands over him, she checked his wound. "Looks good, Daniel. But I expected it to." She kept her voice low. "Are you ready to get out of here?" "Fuck yes. You should see the slop they tried to feed me. I'm starving. Tell that hardhead over there to hurry up the paperwork, or I'll take a bite out of his ass." "I heard that, brother. Don't tempt me. As it is you're in for a long ride back home." "You wouldn't dare!" The tiger growled warningly. "Enough, Daniel. You're going to get your ass tranqed and even dealing with one tranqed hybrid is one too many right now." "If he keeps my ass in a cage all the way home, you better tranq me because I'll kick his ass when I get out." "Come on, Gregory. I do believe he's well enough to travel to the preserve." * * * * A Month Later Shu couldn't help be awed when she'd first laid eyes on the Preserve outside of Nanning. It was quite beautiful and for once she felt as if she were at home. The utter wildness of the surrounding had her wanting to shift and a run. "It's tempting isn't it, Shu, the idea of being able to run free with no worries about being shot at and or discovered." Daniel walked up behind her, now in human form. He'd just returned from a short trip to Guangzhou. They were in one of the private exam rooms in the clinic on the edge of the preserve. "It's quite beautiful, Daniel but I don't worry about those things when I shift." "It's been a month since we arrived but you haven't once shifted. I assumed you would take the opportunity to run free." "No. There is no freedom for me in my base form." She walked away from the window. "Why is that?" "Because –" She stiffened when she smelled the familiar scent of Gregory. "Afraid to tell the protector of my pack that you're scared of what will happen when you do?" Gregory's snarl wasn't surprising. Since they'd arrived, he'd been trying to draw her into the mating ritual. When she refused to shift he'd been first amused. So he'd set out to seduce her in both forms. When she still refused, his amusement had turned into frustration and rage. He wanted her and wasn't happy about her resistance. Daniel looked from his brother to Shu. "What's going on?" "Are you going to tell him, Shu?" Gregory leaned up against the exam table. "No." She turned and left the room. Daniel looked at his brother. "What the hell is going on, Gregory. When I left for Guangzhou she was settling in fine. Why is she so skittish now?" Gregory stared impassively at him. "She's running." "From what?" "Me." When Gregory didn't elaborate, Daniel's patience wore thin. "All right, that's enough. I'm tired of pulling answers out of you like teeth. Explain!" "She's my mate. She won't shift because she knows the first time she does I'm going to claim her." "And you told her this? No wonder she won't shift. You hardheaded son of bitch, do you have any idea with what you're dealing with?" He rounded on his brother. "A tigress in denial." "No. I spoke with Ry-lin while I was gone. She's not just any ordinary hybrid, Gregory. She's a half-breed, one that's been repeatedly rejected and even attacked by her own pack. Your highhandedness is going to backfire." "She's not the first half-breed. Why would her pack attack her? She can't help one of her parents is full blooded human." "They're not. Both are hybrids. From what Ry-linn says her mother was a Bengal hybrid and her father a Jaguar hybrid." Gregory paled. "Good Lord. Which does she take after?" The idea of having a mate from a different race wasn't as appalling as it should have been. Shu had gotten under his skin and he wasn't looking for a way to get her out. He was looking for a way to get her to accept his claim. "Ry-lin doesn't know. She hasn't ever shifted outside the rainforest of her father's pack. No one other than her own pack mates know what she truly is." He thought for a moment. "Make arrangements to go to Brazil." "You're sending her home?" Daniel was no longer relaxed. "Yes. This is something she's going to have to work through." Rubbing the back of his neck, he wandered to the window. "You've got to be kidding! You're our next alpha. I can't believe you're giving her up that easily." Gregory looked over his shoulder at him. "I'm not. You and I are going to accompany her. Facing her fears and misgivings on her own turf are the only way I'm going to have a chance to claim her." "Let me guess, I'm going as protection?" Daniel looked amused now. "I may be an Alpha but I'm not stupid, brother. I will be out numbered and I know it. Don't give me any sass about it. Just make the arrangements." * * * * Getting off the phone, Gregory sighed. His call to Enrique Rodriguez had gone better than he'd hoped. After explaining his situation to Shu's father, he was amazed at the support the man had given him. The plan they'd hatched was solid and hopefully he'd come back from Brazil a mated man. But he took her father's parting word seriously. "She's been shunned by the males of my pack because of her form but she has a good heart. Don't break it and we'll get along fine." The words still echoed in his head. A knock on this outer office door, drew him out of his thoughts. "Enter." The door opened and both Daniel and Shu walked in. "Good, just the people I wanted to see." Leaning forward, he looked at his brother. "Did you make the arrangements?" "Yes. We're scheduled to leave in the morning." "Good. Well, Shu, since you're obviously going to continue to fight me and my claim, it's time for you to go home. I just finished talking to your father and he's requested your return. We'll leave in the morning." He stood and a left the room before Shu or his brother could say anything. * * * * Standing in front of Gregory's desk Shu trembled. "He no longer wants me?" Tears filled her eyes before anger rushed over her and she turned to follow Gregory. "That hard headed son of bitch!" "Now, Shu, you need to calm down..." Daniel stepped in front of her. "Calm down my ass!" She snarled at him and for the first time in his adult life, he was glad he was not going to be on the receiving in of her anger. He loved angry sex as much as the next tiger but he wasn't about to take on Shu. "First he says he wants me and then he doesn't. We'll just see about that! Move your ass out of my way." Measuring her, he stood in front of her more calmly than he felt. "You're not going to kill him are you, Shu? How are you going to mate with him if he's dead?" "I won't kill him but he'll wish I had. Now move!" He wisely moved out of the way. * * * * Deep inside of his own tiger, Gregory ran through the preserve, leaving his scent on several trees for Shu to find. Goddess, I hope this works. Her father said telling her I'd changed my mind would, push her to prove herself worthy. I don't understand this reverse psychology stuff but it better work. The tears I heard in her voice damn neared killed me. Then the sound he'd been waiting for echoed through the forest - a female cat's scream of rage. Thank you Goddess. * * * * Daniel stood at the opening of the trail. Beside him Shu discarded her clothing. Handing them to him, she stretched. "You make a single snide remark about my cat, I'll tear you to shreds, Protector." Claimed "Yeah, right." When she hissed at him, he held his hands up. "My bad. I'm sorry, I was teasing. I'm sure you're..." His breath caught in throat as she shifted right before him. Standing in front of him stood a large cat. Her body was of a White Bengal tiger. The intriguing silver rosettes were like nothing he'd ever seen. She looked up at him, her eyes blue as the sky. "Beautiful, is what you are Shu. And don't let my brother forget it." At his mention of Gregory, Shu screamed, her cry echoing over the forest. Whirling, she bounded into the forest. "Goddess, I hope you're watching out over my hard-headed brother and her. They belong together." * * * * Racing through the forest, Shu followed the scent of Gregory. He was being quite obvious in his scent trail. It enraged her further that he thought so poorly of her that he was making it easy for her to find him. "Slipping aren't you, Alpha? An enemy could easily find you." "I'm not worried about an enemy, Mate." "I'm not your Mate!" "You were warned if you shifted what would happen, Shu." Her ears twitched as she heard the rush of fur and wind. When he sprung out of the foliage, she vaulted into the trees overhead, her Jaguar heritage showing. Running along the maze of branches she easily outdistanced him. A soft laugh escaped her mind. "It's going to take more than a pouncing game, Alpha, to claim me, for I am no ordinary tiger." "Bitch!" The affection in his voice was apparent along with his frustration. "So I've been told. You wanted this... me shifting and running wild for you. Well, I've shifted and I'm running, but now it's a battle to see if you can catch me." * * * * Keeping his eyes peeled, Gregory searched for the streak of white inside the trees. I should've expected her to take to the trees but one would think she would stick out like a sore thumb with her white coat. The glimmer of white appeared in the corner of his eye. He rolled with her as she landed on top of him. He scrambled to pin her under him but unlike tigresses he had encountered in the past, she didn't meekly give in because she was on her back. Raking with her claws, she squirmed away and scrambled to her feet. "Oh no you don't, Shu!" He tackled her from behind. There was no way in hell he was going to let her disappear into the trees again. Using his heavier weight he pressed her down against the damp earth. Clamping his mouth over her shoulder he held her in place. "Damn, why are you fighting me, when it's obvious you want me as much as I want you?" "I'm not normal Gregory. I'm a half breed..." "There's nothing wrong with your breed. You're beautiful and I want you." "But you said..." "That we were going to your father's. As much as it pains me, I'm not going to claim you today. I'm going to take you to home and if you find yourself in this position again, you're going to be claimed." Lifting and releasing her, he shifted back. In human form, he ran his hands over her heaving tigress body. She looked up at him with her beautiful big blue eyes and accepted his caresses. For the first time in her adult life she allowed even welcomed another to explore her base form. * * * * Brazil, South America Shu stood between her father and his mate. The dancing torches flickered over the roughly hewn circle. Her mouth grew dry. Here was her own nightmare. In the foliage surrounding the circle the gleem of hundreds of eyes reminded her that the pack was present but watching from the shadows, waiting for her to fail once more. "Dad, I don't think I can..." "Shu, you can. You're the strongest person I've ever met. Your man traveled half way around the world to claim you..." "So he's an easy bet. I don't know why you're so worried...." Maria's snide remark was cut short with a glare from her father. "Despite what my foolish mate thinks, daughter, you've nothing to be ashamed of. Go and take your place in the circle. Don't roll over passively because you think he's all you can have. Make him work for it. Make him earn the right to have you." She nodded. Shedding her robe, she changed swiftly and walked calmly into the circle. Her heart was thumping and she was keenly aware of the eyes staring at her. A soft cough from her father started the mating ceremony. Gregory came to the edge of the circle in his human form. Moving forward, he breached the inner circle. Walking right up to her he knelt at her side. Touching her from head to tail, he rubbed his hands over her. "Mine. Every inch of this beautiful tigress is mine." With a blur he shifted so the proud Xiamen tiger stood in his place. Letting out a roar of claiming, he let everyone in the vicinity know of his claim. Rolling over to her back, she exposed her tender belly to him. Leaning down, he gently left his mark on her throat before urging her up. Urging her over to her father, he stopped in front of him. Shu changed back swiftly. At her side Gregory shifted. "Why, daughter?" His question was obvious. "To you it may seem as if I let him claim me, Dad, but he won me long before I ever entered any mating circle." "I did?" Looking at her mate, she nodded. "Why fight a mate who has already shown me tenderness when before I only have known pain and hurt? By letting me go when he had the chance to mate me, he claimed my heart. I saw no reason to fight something I wanted. If this brings disrespect to our pack - I apologize but I am not a Jaguar hybrid, nor am I a tiger hybrid. I'm simply Gregory's mate." Her dad's voice was gruff when he answered. "There is no shame in taking what you want, Shu. Perhaps this should be a lesson to all of us. Go with your mate now. Celebrate your joining." Turning away from his daughter and her mate, Enrique addressed his pack. "She is Claimed!" Loud roars echoed over the forest. * * * * Shu gasped as Gregory pushed her back on the bed. Following her down, he pinned her hands beside her head. Nuzzling her, he pressed his body against hers. "Goddess, I love your smell." "I thought I told you I wasn't going to be your personal cache of catnip." "So you did but here you are lying naked in my arms. I love you, Shu. You were mine from the moment I set eyes on you." Pressing her hands above her head, he whispered for her to leave them there. Gripping the pillow under her head, she clenched her fingers as his mouth slid down her neck to her breasts. The fiery lash of his tongue over her straining peaks had her panting. "Please Gregory!" "I am mate. Pleasing you is my pleasure." He trailed open- mouthed kisses from her breasts down to her stomach. "Gregory?" Her hesitation was apparent. "I don't..." "But I do. I want to taste you. Now lie still and let me have my taste." His growl washed over her sensitive folds as he buried his face between her thighs. "Oh God!" She arched up, helpless against his sucking mouth. When he took her swollen nub into his mouth and lashed it with his tongue, she exploded. "Gregory!" "Grrrr." The animalistic sound ripped from his chest as he scrambled up her form and hooked her legs over his arms. Sliding fast and deep inside her he let out a roar. Shu screamed as he forced her orgasm to continue. When she came back down from her peak, she realized he was still hard as a rock inside her. "Gregory?" He bared his teeth at her before jerking out of her. Rolling her on to her knees, he entered her from behind. "Mine, Shu, all mine!" He began hammering against her, his balls slapping against her as he surged in and out of her, now intent on his own release and dominating the writhing woman under him. She cried out and bucked under him as pleasure, dark and tense wracked her body and she never felt the change wash over her."Oh...God..." "Mine!" He repeated before his change washed over him and he buried his fangs deep in her shoulder. Her scream of pleasure echoed through the house followed by his grunt as they spasmed against each other helplessly. As they sank down the bed collapsed under their combined weight. * * * * Shu couldn't help but laugh as she watched her mate try to repair her bed. Leaning against up against her dresser, she tried to hide her smile each time he glanced suspiciously in her direction. Finally stymied he threw his hands up in the air. "Fuck it! We're sleeping on the floor, Shu." "Don't worry about it, Mate. When we return home, we'll make sure we get a much better supported bed. Or we'll just have to tell our bases forms they can't romp around on it." Walking up to her, he gathered her in his arms. "Return home?" Looking up at him, she smiled. "This is my father's home. My home is with you at the Preserve. I've never felt any more at home there than I do in your arms. So in the morning take me home." "Of course, my mate." He whispered against her head. Claimed Hi. My name is Sienna. I am a college student. I am just an ordinary girl with, perhaps, a little more shapely body figure than others. My face is quite pretty, but I hide behind my glasses. I am a freshman member of my school's Debating Team. My participation on the team is what led to this story. One thing you need to know about my school is that there is something called "idolatry." It is not unusual to see younger girls like me idolizing the senior girls or the professors. I am no different. I am obsessed with the chairlady of the Student Association and the English Debating Team. She is a senior. Her name is Natso. Natso is no ordinary young lady. She is considered the "Woman of Excellence" at our school. As such, she is the model of behavior to the younger ones. She is beautiful, but not stunning. She is somewhat short and has to wear high heels all the time, but that doesn't stop me from being obsessed with her. Natso is one of the coolest people in the world. Well, my world anyway. Sometimes, she seems cold and emotionless. Yet, when she wants to be, she can be really friendly, just like an older sister. She has this spellbinding aura around her, which is what made me so obsessed, I think. I had always wanted to befriend Natso, but she was always frustratingly distant around me. She acted as though she didn't know me at all. Things between us drastically changed, however. One afternoon, after a debate match which our school won, Natso came to me and said, "Stay behind in the classroom. I have some comments for you." I was shocked. She actually talked to me! At that time, I was already totally head over heels for her. Anything she said and any smile she gave me made me blush deep scarlet. And so, when I replied that I would stay and blushed like a tomato, she actually smiled a little knowing smile. After everyone left the classroom, I dutifully remained seated and waited for Natso to speak. I thought that she was going to give me some comments on how to improve my techniques. So, I was extremely surprised and scared when she locked the door and turned towards me with a triumphant gleam in her eyes. I watched, speechless, as she approached me at an excruciatingly slow pace, building suspense. Her gleaming eyes bored into mine. When at last she reached me, she reached out and held my chin firmly. Before I realized what was happening, Natso suddenly leaned forward to take a kiss from me. I was so taken aback that I forgot to resist. We were both girls! What was she doing, trying to kiss me? I'm not a lesbian! When I regained my composure, I opened my mouth intending to say words of resistance, but immediately, she plunged her tongue into my mouth, lashing it about--exploring. I tried to plead with her using my eyes, but she fixed me with a powerful stare that made me forget everything. I became totally under her control. I responded timidly at first. However, when Natso hugged me tightly, I became bolder. My misgivings disappeared and very soon our tongues were lashing passionately at one another like two old lovers. The kiss was so hard it took my breath away. At long last, our kiss finally broke, leaving me breathless and apprehensive. I was at a loss as to what to say or even where in the room to look. I tried hard to avoid her gaze by looking down at my feet. However, when I felt her electric stare at the back of my neck, I couldn't resist the temptation to peek at her. She smiled her little knowing smile again and held my chin, staring into my eyes. Natso said, "You're mine from now on, body and soul." She reached out and stroked my cheek, observing me. Although I was quite over the moon for Natso, I did have my limits. I wasn't totally blinded by obsession. I opened my mouth to refuse, but she slapped me hard. She hissed, "Haven't you been idolizing me for the past few months? You're past the point of no return. You're mine, Sienna, and you know it." The power radiating from her as she spoke captivated me. I was utterly speechless. Avoiding her gaze, I meekly nodded my assent. Natso smirked, "Good. From now on, you will be my little slut, a sex toy for me to use in any way I see fit." After she said this, Natso reached forward and stripped my clothes away, leaving me totally naked. I offered no resistance. "From now on, you will not wear any panties. You will provide me with easy access at all times. And you will address me as Mistress. Do you understand?" Natso spoke in an uncompromising tone. " Yes, Mistress," I replied, trembling a little. Natso's dominance made me feel very small, but it made me really excited at the same time. "I own you now, Sienna. I will push you to your limits and expand them, but I won't hurt you. You have to learn to trust me. Do you understand, my little slut?" I nodded obediently as Natso's claiming words sunk in. A feeling of warmth spread through me, emanating from my core. "You are naturally submissive. After some training, you'll prove to be the most wonderful sub a Domme could ever ask for." "Thank you, Mistress!" I was filled with joy and gratitude. I had become so totally obsessed with Natso that the new nature of our relationship didn't trouble me at all. On the contrary, her words made me feel loved and treasured. I only wanted to please my new Mistress. It really felt good being claimed by Natso. Natso told me to lie with my back on the table and spread my legs. Even though my mind was devoid of erotic thoughts about my Mistress, I was dripping wet. I guess it was my submissive nature that made me horny even in such a situation. A pool began to form under me and when my Mistress saw it, she nodded approvingly. "You have such nice breasts and a firm, round ass too!" "Thank you, Mistress!" I said breathlessly, aroused at being displayed in front of my idol and Mistress. Natso slowly stroked my clit, which made me gasp in pleasure. Then suddenly, she buried her face in my pussy and started plunging her tongue into and out of it. She expertly sucked on my clit. She sucked on my lips. She took her time tasting me, discovering me. Natso left no part of me untouched. She gently kissed my inner thighs. With painstaking slowness, she nibbled her way from my mound up to my breasts. My nipples grew painfully hard as she suckled and nipped at them. I could tell from the way she elicited my moans as she ravished me that she was enjoying her control, her complete control. Natso then submerged within me again and again. I was helpless against her will. I squirmed and moaned under the sureness of her touch, the certainty of her control. I felt a climax building up rapidly. Just before it burst forth, I tensed up, holding back, uncertain about what to do. Natso recognized my hesitation for what it was. She paused her sucking long enough to thrust her fingers inside me and say, "Yes, you may cum now, little slut." As she stroked, I immediately shuddered all over. My whole body was consumed in an orgasm so powerful that it nearly made me pass out. The pleasure was like nothing I had experienced before. It was the intense pleasure that one can only gain from the pleasure of subjugation. Natso owned me, body and soul. When at last I regained composure, Natso was smiling at me. She said, "Well, slut, it seems as though you really enjoyed the orgasm I gave you. I've got another present for you." She produced a clit vibrator and helped me put it on. "The remote is with me. Just to make sure you're horny and ready for me whenever I want you." She planted an affectionate kiss on my forehead, as if to mark her territory, then helped me clean up and dress. As we left the room, Natso turned on the vibrator, making it difficult for me to walk straight. "You are so sensitive, my dear. I am going to have so much fun with you. Meet me in my classroom tomorrow afterschool, do you understand?" Without waiting for an answer and leaving the vibrator humming merrily on my clit, Natso walked away, leaving me to deal with the crashing orgasmic sensations on my own. Somehow, I managed to get home. As I lay in bed that night, I kept thinking about how lucky I was to be chosen by Natso. She was right. I am a submissive. She is taking me to new heights. I am Hers. I am so proud to be claimed. Claimed There was something so familiar. This was not the first time she had looked into the intensity of those ice grey eyes, Asia was certain of it. Who could forget such a hauntingly unique color, the distinct clarity, the way they seemed to bore through her and create a rush that could only be compared to actual physical intimacy. The fact that he was a stranger and on the opposite end of the room only left Asia in a confused state of uneasiness. His eyes almost seemed to glow in the low lighting of the celebration and even though she wanted to, she could not look away. This was a celebration of passion, music and dance. The music was loud, not blaring, but had enough force that it could be felt in the chest. A steady erotic, rhythmic play of the percussion was a back drop to the give and take of the music. To say that it was romantic was an understatement. It dripped sex. The dancers, a male and a female, glided so sensually in and out of each other's grasp. The stopping and the starting was so well coordinated that their lack of movement was as important as movement. Pauses doubled the effect of swiftness. It was the Rumba in a way Asia had never seen it performed before. The female dancer kicked up her leg and then raised it even higher before gracefully lowering it-torturously slow. The man eased his hand up her thigh, demanding that your eye follow in expectation. Then, he quickly shifted their bodies in one flowing movement. It blocked her vision for just a moment and when she looked again, her mystery man was gone. She felt relieved by visual absence of his presence. Still, she could feel the effect of his eyes. It was as if they were an extension of his body, touching her where ever they lay. Her eyes darted around the room. She saw nothing, not one sign of him. He was not one likely to be looked over, even in this crowd of the beautiful and exquisitely adorned. Asia gulped down her flute of champagne and grabbed another as the waiter went by. Why did she feel so nervous? Something was getting ready to happen. Her body felt it. Each part of her grew more alert and oh so sensitive. Even her pussy wept in anticipation. She had abandoned her panties earlier, slipping them in the waste basket of the lady's room. "Are you okay?" Asia turned, slightly startled, remembering for the first time since she saw those eyes that she was with someone else. She bit her lip. The urge to say "no" was at the tip of her tongue. "I'm fine," she sighed nervously. "I'm just a little warm." "It's the dancers," Paul said, looking over the rim of his glass and winking mischievously. She looked so erotic biting that full lip. He couldn't wait to partake. To him, tonight, she looked so exotic. There was barely a trace of the studious academic. "They're sexy. Look at the other couple over there." Asia followed his eyes to another dancing couple. Another crowd had separated and the couple almost slithered in unison to the music. The dancers were amazing and just seemed to emerge from nowhere at various intervals. Who ever had thought of this concept was a genius. Asia gulped down the rest of her champagne. She could not continue to watch them. With her mystery man on her mind, it was too much. As she quickly looked back up at her date, he mouthed the word for emphasis with a little too much drama for her taste. "Sexy." For the first time since they had started dating, Asia felt irritated. She rolled her eyes at him, which was something she rarely did. As a woman of color, it always seemed like a stereotype she did not want to contribute to. And, it was a juvenile way of communicating. It was effective though. She could see an apology wash over him as did the realization of how stupid he looked. Paul tried to recover, drinking once more from his glass. However, he could not help letting his eyes roam her body. Asia had chosen a sleeveless black dress with a simple form fitting cut that fell across her toned thighs. What made the dress so remarkably her was the delicate black lace. What seemed to show through the lace was her luscious caramel colored skin. To watch her move was to wonder if you could possibly see a hint of something forbidden. It was an illusion though. Well, at least some of it was. "You are wearing the hell out of that dress," her date whispered in her ear. Tonight was going to be the night that Paul and Asia took the relationship a bit further. For him this was foreplay. They were ready. Paul's intentions were obvious. However, Asia's sudden shift only led to another cautionary look and the roll of her eyes. She slightly turned away in an attempt to fight her sudden, unexplainable aversion to Paul. And, there he was, her man with those eyes. He was still watching her, but this time he watched as he moved calmly through the crowd. Asia felt like prey, under the careful watch of this... Man? His expression wore a warning. Her date, still whispering something in her ear had placed his hand on the small of her back and gently pulled her closer to him. At the same moment the music seemed to shoot like a current through her. It was deafening. She heard the word "no", as if a low rumbling voice had spoken into her other ear. Her body responded immediately, without thought, shocking Paul as she pulled away. Was it her imagination? Had her mystery man slightly raised an eyebrow and nodded his head in approval? Had he actually said "good girl"? Had she actually heard it? Was that his voice echoing in her mind? Asia placed her own hand at her throat and gasped. Paul reached out for her but she stepped back. "Asia?" He was concerned now, not out of a hurt sense of pride but actual fear. She looked as if she was going to be ill. "Asia." The voice said her name in such a way that Asia actually closed her eyes to feel it resonate inside her. When she opened them, the look on Paul's face filled her with guilt. "Asia, darling, are you okay?" "I need..." Her mind raced. "I think I'm going to go to the ladies' room." "Come on, I'll take you," Paul said, clasping her hand with his. There was a growl. "No," Asia snapped, pulling back her hand. She forced a sweet smile. "I'll be okay. You wait here." She turned around and made her way through the crowd quickly. It seemed to take forever to get to the huge, opened double doors that led to the house gardens. Asia immediately removed her shoes as she approached the end of the intricately laid stone patio. The coolness of damp grass beneath her feat seemed to help as she began to run. She could even feel a breeze swoop down from the distant tree line, carrying such an intoxicating scent. It was his scent, she knew this. It tickled her flushed skin. There was a huge, ancient stone fountain in the distance. The sound of the water drew her. She sat down on its edge to catch her breath. "Breathe deeply," the familiar voice commanded. "You will lose consciousness soon if you continue to breathe so shallow." Asia threw her head back and filled her lungs with air. It took a moment, but the swirling feeling began to subside. She did not dare open her eyes. "What did you do to me?" "What have you done to me?" There was an edge of amusement in his voice. She opened her eyes and watched him stroll toward her. Each stride was so controlled, so deliberate, so dangerous. Asia suddenly wondered if she should run. There was no one anywhere near them. They were totally alone. She could still hear traces of the music drifting across the open space. If she screamed, no one would hear her. "Would you want to be heard?" She stood up slowly. Her eyes never left his. How could she have used the word ice before to describe them? They were the palest of grey, full of emotion and heat. They were melting her. Every ounce of defense, every warning signal faded within her. Asia felt pulled to this man. It was not familiarity, it was need. The closer he came the more relieved she felt. He was much larger than she had thought at first, taller, broader. His movements were so graceful that from across the room he seemed more delicate, but this man was a tower of masculinity. With his bowtie undone, the first three buttons to his crisp white dress shirt loose and his dark hair moving with each step over his shoulders, he looked wild. The desire to touch him overwhelmed her and she reached out her hands. He let the jacket to his tux slide down his arms and fall to the ground as he moved forward. Only after she was able to feel the iron strength of him beneath his shirt with the flat of her hands against his chest, did she close her eyes and let her head drift back. She thought that he would kiss her. Asia wanted to feel his lips against her own, ached for it. He rubbed his cheek to hers and let his nose run along her hair line. The fine shading of facial hair he wore was just enough friction to tease her delicate skin. He licked her neck and sucked gently at a spot that pulsated with the beat of her heart. Asia opened her eyes, although her lids felt so heavy. She was drifting and just wanted to surrender, to fall into him and float. He pulled back just enough so that he could look into her face. Her hair had been pulled up into a loose gathering of her thick curls. He released them and her dark tresses fell to frame her lovely face. He had yet to touch her with his hands. "You are perfect," his voice was thick and low, "so delicious." "I don't know you," was all she could manage, breathless and weak. "Yes you do," he said, rubbing his cheek to hers once more. His voice was hot in her ear. "You know me as I know you. Your mind and your body know me. Don't they?" Asia turned her head desperately trying to find his lips with her own. He was toying with her and this made her anger flare. She pushed at his chest. He was solid and unmovable, but to move him away was not exactly what she wanted anyway. Frustrated with herself, she fisted the material of his shirt. "This is crazy." He laughed a low rumble from his chest that she could feel ease through her. Or, was it a growl? He raised his hand and grabbed a handful of her hair between his fingers. When he jerked her head back, she let out a small sound and it was immediately absorbed by his lips. His tongue was in her mouth and exploring. She welcomed him hungrily and was rewarded with a groan that made her thighs shiver. His other hand caught her around the waist and boldly rested on the swell of her ass, squeezed and pressed her into him. She felt his need for her. The size of him, the hardness, made her whimper. "I need to taste all of you," he whispered, letting her up for air. His lips ran down the length of her throat. He kissed and he sucked, pausing at that special spot. His large hands weighed her firm, round breasts and massaged them expertly, making her solid nipples draw up into painful knots. His thumbs rubbing over them only teased the hard nubs through the delicate lace of her dress, making her eyes tear. "Our minds and our bodies know," he repeated just as her nipples became exposed to the night air. Then, they felt the moist heat of his mouth, sucking. His teeth caused her to cry out. The sound that sprung from deep inside her was met by a song of low howls in the night. They seemed to have come from the tree line. It was her imagination, she was certain. All of this had to be a dream. His hands and her body, the feel of them together was beyond explanation. She had no thoughts or words, only sounds. They were sounds heightened by the beating of her heart. But, her heart was not alone. It was like the music, a driving beat supported by others in a rhythm that made her hips begin to move. Her dress was already pulled up around her waist. His hands were already digging into her thighs. "I want to taste more of you," he murmured across her torso. Her legs were parted and the heat of his breath was upon her. "What I want is to put my mouth here and feel you come under my kiss," he groaned. Before she could fully comprehend his words, Asia's leg was over his shoulder and her clit was twisting in his hot mouth. She gripped his hair and hung on as she ground herself against him. She wanted this, needed it. How long had her body been waiting for this? The strength of his hands kept her from falling over. This was not simple lust or the act of passion. It was something else. It was something more animalistic, driven by the purity of instinct. It was the meat of sex. He was not just tasting her, but knowing her—wakening an unknown spirit within her. What this was swirled with emotion, nerve endings, music, heat and carnal power. It hit her with such an abandoned force that her entire body shook. Her hands went from his hair to her own, and she pulled to somehow try and ground the sensations that took her over. She could not hold back as he sucked and strummed her, seemingly from the inside. She exploded and unfamiliar images took form in her mind. The rush of running fast in between trees at the face of a mountain made her laugh. Him on top of her, skin to bare skin, fucking was like a memory revisited, making her come even harder. "Crìsdean," she cried out, straining. *** "I will have you completely my love," echoed in her head as she approached the mansion. Her pussy was still pulsating, still hungry for him. Everything seemed so much brighter now. Even the stone of the patio glowed in the light of the full moon. "What happened?" Paul questioned, reaching out for her. He had looked everywhere and on a whim had come outside to find her. What could Asia say? I've just let some guy go down on me, had the most mind blowing climax ever and now I want him to fuck me senseless. Take me home. He is coming to me. Instead, Asia pulled away, laughing. It was a bit too frantic for Paul's comfort. She had her shoes in hand, her hair undone and wild. Her eyes were bright and wide, her makeup a bit smeared. Paul looked suspiciously out over the expanse of the grounds, toward the fountain in the distance. He thought he saw movement, but was not sure. He looked at her once more, catching her arm as she moved past him. It was obvious that she had had too much to drink. "Let's get you home," he said, a bit disappointed. "Please," she insisted as the voice of her lover continued to repeat itself in her mind. *** Asia wanted to believe that it had been a dream. In the presence of her things, her world, she became ashamed of her wanton behavior. Walking room to room, she turned on every light in her small home. All the doors had been checked and locked. The security system was turned on. It was not fear that took her but a form of shock. She was shocked at herself and her reaction. His eyes, his touch and his divine smell had not faded. Her pussy still wept for him and his words still hummed in the air. Finally naked and in her bathroom, she looked at herself in the mirror. She was glowing. Her reflection in the mirror was glorious. Her hair was loose; the massive dark curls were untamed and rebellious. Her lips were swollen and flushed, a blood filled pink. Her eyes were wild. She brought her forefinger up to her lips to touch their warmth. He had kissed her there. Asia slipped her finger between her lips and licked, remembering. He had kissed her everywhere. She let the wet digit touch the tip of her dark nipple and moaned. With the fingers of her other hand, she spread her pussy's juices. This was her, the real her. It was the side of her she tried too hard to keep hidden. It was the part of her that always simmered just beneath the surface of her golden skin, always threatening escape. It was unexplainable urges and temperament. Now, it was set loose and she feared what this meant. Her eyes filled with tears and they ran down her cheeks silently. She worked her fingers against her clit furiously, feeling herself coming. Asia felt alive and hungry for more. She was hungry for the grey eyes, the strong hands and the feel of the wind in her hair. "Crìsdean," she whispered huskily—a name so new but yet so old. Crìsdean answered her call as she lay naked on her bed, waiting. When he came to her, Asia was lost between reality and a dream. It was only suitable that he would appear then, standing at the foot of her bed, his naked body glorious in the light of the filtered moon. "Asia, you are perfect." "Me," she said, confused. She had never seen a man so perfectly formed. Asia got on her hands and knees and slowly crawled across the bed toward him. When she reached him, she rose on her knees before him and reached out with the palm of her hand. His body was the definition of strength. Each muscle was so carefully etched and defined. She just wanted to touch him, to feel his strength beneath her finger tips. The urge to feel the rise and fall, the grooves of each muscle as it shifted into the other was strong. "You know my name," she whispered breathlessly. When her touch met his skin, Asia felt the muscle of his chest tighten and heard his intake of air. The knowledge that she too had an effect on him only excited her more as she let her hands explore him. "As you," he returned, closing his eyes for just an instant and enjoying the scent of her, "know mine my love." "My love." She rolled the words off her lips as her eyes followed her hands. Asia let her fingertips trace the divided boxes of his muscled torso. The fine sprinkle of hair that seemed to begin at his navel was inviting as it increased, reaching over the tightly stretched skin of his lower abdomen. She caught her breath at just the thought of what she was about to do. Never before had she been so bold with a man. But, he was simply so beautiful and massive, everywhere. She wrapped her fingers around his thickness. And, it was as impressively thick as it was long. It was like steel sheathed with a thin layer of silk, so warm to the touch. Asia smoothed the heated silk and let both of her thumbs run over the deliciously swollen head. "Breathe," he told her. His voice was so low and thick. Asia slowly retraced her path with her eyes, still letting her hands learn him. The drizzle of pre-cum encouraged her. She let her eyes trace the square line of his jaw, his chin and then his lips. She watched them form her name once more. "Mine," he groaned out the word from deep in his chest. With that she finally met those eyes. They were definitely glowing now, and dangerously so. Ever since the first time she had laid her eyes on him, her mind had seemed to go foggy. It was almost as if it was in denial, somewhat of a protection. She remembered now, the feeling she had in the coffee shop several days ago and looking up, seeing him. There was the shadow across the street looming before bed, the brush of an arm as she walked along the crowded sidewalk. And that day, she had felt so restless and edgy. The wind was unusually high, a storm threatened. The scent of him was everywhere, so clean and masculine. It had been him standing there, his hair billowing in the wind and his body motionless as everything else seemed to speed up around him. The feeling that welled inside of her, causing her to lose her breath, was him. Realization flooded her. "Mine," he repeated. Her mind was suddenly clear. Her senses were alert. Such sudden clarity and alertness was almost painful. "Yours," she whispered before attacking his lips with her own like a starved animal. Suddenly, Asia was on her back. He had lifted her body and was now on top of her, protecting her from his weight as his kisses demanded absolute surrender. Asia met his every demand. Her legs wrapped around his waist as he rocked his hips, allowing her to feel the slide of him against her entrance. Each passing pressed his bulbous tip a little farther, readying her for his taking. Her readiness coated his crown and made it extremely hard for him to control himself. Every nerve within him was stirred and desperate to claim her after all this time. His wolf had been so patient within him. This teasing, this delicate dance designed to lessen the pain he knew his size would give her was torture. He drew back and pressed forward only to have her arch her body into him, forcing penetration. Claimed Crìsdean growled. Asia began to chant against his lips, in between kisses. "Yes, yes." With a vigorous shove of his hips, he plunged hard and deep. Her hands spread over the muscles of his lower back and down across his ass, feeling them flex as he proceeded to rut her. Gripping her body to his, Crìsdean drove himself into her and then pulled back, reveling in the feel of her inner muscles, so tight, clamping down on him. Her body sucked him in, welcoming him home again and again. Her channel curved to his cock. It was made for him. Each time he kissed her cervix, slammed into it, he had to force his animal into submission. He had no desire for their lovemaking to be in any way an assault. She had been with men, but not a man such as him. Besides, this awakening within her was a new thing. He needed to let her test it. There was so much more to come. Tonight was her calling. He flipped their bodies expertly, guiding her rhythm. She adapted quickly, rising up and pressing her hands against his chest for balance. She used every opportunity to feel the hardness of his body, appreciating his power. Asia began to ride him. With the strength of her thighs she rose up. His size took effort. She could look down and see him drawing out, amazed at the unbelievable vision. She threw her head back and impaled herself on him. Over and over she rode him. Something deep inside of her emerged and took over. Asia could not recognize the sounds that her own body made as she came. She also could not stop herself from wanting more. When she looked into his eyes, Asia wanted to feel shame. No one should see her like this. But, there was nothing but reassurance in his glowing eyes and hunger. It was a hunger equal to hers, yet stronger. It drove her to let go of all that she knew. Asia took her sex from him again and again, climax on top of climax as she worked her hips and brought up her firm ass to only force him deeper into her pussy. By the time he placed her on her stomach and entered her from behind, she was lost in a frenzied state of fulfillment and lust. He came in her with strong hot streams of satisfaction. His body constricted and released to the beating of their joined hearts. He continued to empty into her as his teeth found that spot and he bit. Asia's body shook one last time as she came again. She did not even cry out as he claimed her. She wanted it. It was the last thing she thought before losing full consciousness. The knot that formed and sealed them together was both painful to him as well as her. "Remember this." He spoke to her nose to nose, holding his fingers tightly in her hair. "Remember this feeling. Let it lead you to me. You must come willingly to my people and to me. Follow your instincts. Know that I love you and I wait for you." Her dreams were intense. The moon kept hiding behind the clouds. There was a rush of blood. He was there with her, making love to her. Then he was gone. She saw him standing, the wind caught up in his hair, his body naked, strong and beautiful against the sky. He began to shift right before her eyes. He grew stronger, larger, and taller. His face shifted, caught between animal and man. His pelt was white with a dark gray streak flowing from his forehead down his back. His eyes glowed. "Remember," he said. Then he shifted further, dropping to all fours. He turned to leave, this massive beast with her lover's eyes surrounded by others like him-fearless. He looked back once and then leapt. It was a dream, she knew that. But, she also knew what it meant. "Crìsdean Anthony," she whispered before opening her eyes the next day. "Mine."