ChapterThree
KINGSTON
Everything in me screamed with the need to chase her as I stood in the doorway, palms braced on either side of the frame, both to keep me in and hold me back from my instincts.
To mark her.
To mate her.
To make her mine.
Just like that fucking bloodsucker had. Tremors rocked my body as I worked to stave off the shift a bit longer. Otherwise, this would be over before it began, and now that the time was upon me, I wanted to draw it out. After all, the first time only happened once.
“Run fast, Sunday. Because when I catch you, I don’t know what I’ll be.”
I’d seen the moment she realized what was happening, that flicker of fear burning away to be immediately replaced by desire. She may not want me, but her wolf sure did. I could smell it all over her.
My Sunshine wasn’t afraid of me, but she knew that standing around when an Alpha was about to lose control was a surefire way to be backed into a corner and claimed. Either for the night, or in her case, forever.
I watched her disappear into the moonlit woods, her hair streaming behind her like a banner. She had to know I’d find her and catch her no matter how far she ran, but maybe if I gave her more time, she’d come to this willingly. As much as I wanted her, I also needed her to say yes.
I managed to wait a dozen more heartbeats before I lost control. Fur rippled down my limbs as my bones bent and snapped, rearranging themselves into my beast. A pain I welcomed like an old friend shot through me as I shifted. The world changed, coming to life in a way only wild creatures born from magic and moonlight could appreciate.
All I knew was her scent. She was my target. I would find her.
I let out a howl as a warning her time was up.
Run as fast as you can, Sunshine. The big bad wolf is coming for you. But I promise I’ll make it good.
Coherent thoughts were lost to me then, as instinct overrode reason and my wolf broke through.
Mate her.
Mount her.
Fuck her.
Breed her.
I shook my head, trying to keep my mind clear, to cling to the human side of myself for Sunday. Because if he took control, I’d be trapped until he got what he wanted. But it was a lost cause because my body launched forward as the animal pushed away all that was left of the man. It was always a fight to hold onto my consciousness, but the wolf won every single time.
Mine.
Run.
Chase.
Claim.
Branches turned into dark blurs as my beast surged forward toward the scent of lilacs and honey and the earthy aroma of moss. Under all that, the stench of vampire.
Erase him.
Leave my mark.
Fill her with me.
My hackles rose, and a deep growl came from my chest. I had to get to her; there was no other option. I wouldn’t lose her again. Claws dug into the earth with every stride that brought me closer to her.