Chapter One
Earth-Controlled Space, Sector 39, Rydaria
2149
“Stop pawing me, you freak!” Luna Roisin yanked against the wolf shifter’s meaty fist as he led her along the well-worn path encircling the lupine village. She didn’t know his name, but he was one of the brutes who had climbed in through her bedroom window in Eagle Village three nights ago.
The wolf hunters had executed the abduction so expertly that Luna wouldn’t be surprised if no one realized what had happened until the following morning. Unlike the other wolf attacks, the abduction had seemed targeted and well organized. Luna had no idea why the five women in room six had been chosen, but she suspected that they were about to find out.
She kept jerking her arm against his hold and his fingers tightened in silent warning. “Are you going to gag me again?”
The corners of her captor’s mouth lifted in an unapologetic smile and Luna shivered.
“I didn’t have a sedative mister, and you were making too much noise,” he reminded with a casual shrug.
She’d kicked and screamed the night he kidnapped her. He put up with her struggles for about three seconds then shoved a cloth into her mouth and bound her hands behind her back. She was carried from the bunkhouse over her captor’s broad shoulder. He hit the ground running, literally. The forceful impact of his shoulder against her belly compounded her inverted position and Luna blacked out. She woke up in the lupine village, bruised ribs and a splitting headache proof of his brutality. She, along with her four roommates, had been locked in a rustic cabin ever since.
The captives had been given food and additional blankets. There was plenty of firewood in the cabin. The bathroom, complete with a walk-in shower, had been a pleasant surprise, but each female still wore whatever they had been sleeping in the night they’d been abducted. For Luna that meant flannel pajama bottoms and a clingy T-shirt with an obscene finger gesture on the front. She had a blanket wrapped around her shoulders for warmth and she’d been given slip-on shoes by the wolves.
Luna glanced behind her to check on her friends. The others were walking along peacefully, but cooperation simply wasn’t in Luna’s nature. “You stole us from the cats, then the birds rescued us from you, then you took us back from the birds. Does that mean it’s the cats’ turn now?” Her captor was clearly unmoved by her sarcasm, so Luna tried a slightly different tactic. She stopped jerking her arm and softened her tone. “Where are you taking us?”
“You’ll see,” he told her, his voice a low rumble. “We’re almost there.”
All the villages on Rydaria were similar, which wasn’t surprising. They had all been established by the human/animal hybrids illegally created by Nuevo Biotech. Because the DNA of apex predators had been used to transform hybrids, they were deemed unsafe to remain on Earth. They were rounded up and transported to Rydaria, a primitive planet on the edge of Earth-controlled space.
Each community had idiosyncrasies, but the layout and function of their villages were comparable. Wooden fortifications protected each village. The raptor shifters had guard platforms while the feline shifters had built actual towers. The wolves made do with a simple fence. They spent most of their time attacking the other villages rather than developing their own. A central square or green used for social activities and communal services had also been adopted by each village. It was to the lupine green that Luna and the other females were led.
Luna motioned toward the large building straight ahead. “What do you guys call it?”
Her captor looked at her curiously. “What do we call what?”
“The cats call theirs a lodge,” she explained. “The birds call theirs a bunkhouse. What do you guys call the meeting room?”
“A clubhouse,” he admitted, his features becoming more animated. Though still harshly masculine, his face appeared less severe. He was older than the other hybrids, but Luna still found him appealing. While he scowled, she had placed him in his late forties, yet the lack of tension rolled ten years off his age. Hints of gray threaded through his dark hair, the combination even more pronounced in his close-cropped beard. He wore faded jeans and a military-green coat with large, square pockets. “I hadn’t thought about it, but you’re right. Each village has some sort of clubhouse.”
This was as close to pleasant as he had ever been, so Luna asked, “What’s your name?”
He seemed surprised by the question. “Why do you want to know?”
“I was just curious.” She dismissed the subject with an impatient wave of her hand. “Forget I asked.”
“Nathan, but I prefer Nate.”
“Nice to meet you, Nate. How concerned should I be about this meeting?”
He shrugged as his features reestablished the expressionless mask. “Alex will explain everything.”
Alex was the new village alpha. Luna had learned that fact from Evelyn, Luna’s favorite roommate. Evelyn was quiet and unassuming. Most thought she was shy, but in truth she soaked up information like a sponge and came alive in small groups.
A hush fell over the females as they were led into the clubhouse. It was larger than the bunkhouse, but not as spacious or well-constructed as the lodge. The cats had some fabulous carpenters, so many of their structures were impressive.
Luna looked around with a combination of surprise and confusion. The building itself was roughly constructed and rustic, but the wall directly across from the door had been covered with a mural. Graphic battle scenes, sexual tableaus, and stunningly detailed animals fit together into a mosaic both colorful and expressive. The effect was so evocative that Luna could barely breathe for a moment.
“Was the mural painted by one artist?” she asked Nate as he motioned the females to the center of the room.
He glanced at the wall but said nothing as he moved to stand to one side of the door.
Alex Dawson, the ruthless leader of the lupine village, entered a few moments later. Dressed in jeans and a synth-leather jacket, he appeared comfortable in his position. According to Evelyn, there were ten wolf packs, and each had its own alpha. Alex led Riverside pack, the largest and most powerful pack. This also gave him the right to command the other nine alphas.
Luna had seen Alex several times before, but she’d never interacted with him. She had witnessed his pack in action, however. The bloody fight to overthrow the previous village alpha had taken place in front of the captive females. Many of the women had been traumatized by the brutality. Luna just found it interesting. Survival of the fittest was a concept she knew intimately.
If Luna were honest with herself, there was a lot about the wolves she found interesting. Of the three hybrid groups, the wolves were the most savage. They took what they wanted without regret and damn the consequences. Alex Dawson was no exception. Half a head taller than the males surrounding him, Alex had thick golden hair that fell past his shoulders in distinct waves. His beard was darker than his hair, but the whiskers did little to disguise the handsome arrangement of his features. His nose was straight and well proportioned, but his eyes were his best feature. They fluctuated from light brown to vivid gold depending on his emotions.
Alex walked up to the females and stated in a deep, commanding voice, “I need to speak with Evelyn Miani and Luna Roisin. Step forward now.”
Tension gripped Luna’s belly, but she didn’t move. Why were they being singled out? How the fuck had he learned their names?
“That was not a request,” Alex warned. “Luna and Evelyn, step forward. Now.” The growl in the last word was unmistakable.
Luna stared straight ahead. If her friends chose to give her up, so be it. But she was not identifying herself.
No one moved, and no one said a word. Luna fought back a smile. This group of females had been terrorized and shuffled from captor to captor ever since arriving on this godforsaken planet. Did he really think he could browbeat them into submission?
Alex walked in a slow circle around the five defiant women. His features were locked in a fierce scowl, golden eyes flashing. “Luna and Evelyn,” he prompted for the third time. “Identify yourselves so I can release the others. You will not be harmed if you cooperate.”
“I’m Luna,” Luna said with a challenging smirk, hoping he wouldn’t believe her.
“Aren’t you the mouthy hellion my beta had to gag?”
Nate was second in command to the village alpha? His inherent authority suddenly made sense. She swallowed hard but said nothing.
After a cursory glance at Luna, Alex focused on the others.
“I thought she was Luna,” Tianna, a curvy redhead smarted off. She pointed toward one of the blondes. “I’m pretty sure it was her turn.”
“No, I’m Luna,” Jill insisted. “She got to be Luna last week.”
“Evelyn wasn’t in room six,” Tianna continued, unable to conceal the amusement in her eyes. “She couldn’t stand Naomi. So, she traded beds with Satcha.”
“There is no point in these games. I have a roster of Nuevo employees,” Alex told them, clearly annoyed by their antics. “The roster contains headshots of each of you.” He looked at his unwilling guests, likely assessing their features and coloring. “You,” he pointed to Luna. “You,” he pointed to Evelyn. “And you,” he indicated Shannon, the only other blonde. Then he motioned to Nate and ordered, “Take the other two back to their cabin.”
Nate nodded and ushered Jill and Tianna from the room.
Alex moved in front of the remaining females and crossed his arms over his chest. After a quick glance at the other two, he focused on Luna. “You’re clearly Luna Roisin.”
For just a moment their gazes locked and Luna felt herself tremble. Damn, he was one fine-looking hybrid. Ruggedly handsome and oh-so dangerous. She neither denied nor confirmed his conclusion. Instead, she stared back at him in insolent silence.
He pulled a piece of paper out of his pocket and unfolded it. “Evelyn is a little harder to identify.” He held the page near Shannon’s face. “No, your nose is different and Evelyn has a small scar just below her mouth.” He moved over to the other blonde and examined her face, comparing each feature to the image. “Hello, Ms. Miani. Can we dispense with these games now or do I need to teach you some manners?”
“There’s nothing wrong with my manners,” Evelyn said softly. “I always say please and thank you.”
Luna tensed as Alex’s gaze lingered on Evelyn. Of the five captives, Evelyn was by far the prettiest. Her long hair was a unique mixture of silver and gold. Thick lashes framed her leaf-green eyes, and her figure was curved in all the right places. Of course the village alpha would choose her as mate. Luna shook her head. She was still thinking like a human. Lupine hybrids required genetically compatible mates. Looks were incidental. Besides, why the hell should she care if Alex found Evelyn attractive?
That concept was harder to resolve. Females had mandatory roles on Rydaria: mate and mother. Being claimed was inevitable and personal preference had little to do with the outcome. Instincts triggered by compatible genetics would drive the male or males into a sexual frenzy. They would aggressively pursue the females, wearing down her inhibitions until she willingly submitted to their mutual need. Luna had been hearing about the intense urges ever since she arrived on this planet, but she had yet to experience Rydarian courting firsthand.
Tension escalated as Alex looked at the two males standing nearby. One was dark, the other light, but both had similar features. Were they brothers?
“Caden, take that one back to the cabin.” Alex pointed to Shannon. “Drake, escort Evelyn to the stockade. I will speak with her later.”
Luna stiffened. Why was he focused on Evelyn and her? What the hell was going on?
“Do you want us to come back here?” The male had pale blue eyes that contrasted dramatically with his dark hair and swarthy complexion.
“I’m not sure how long this will take,” Alex said ominously. “I’ll find you.”
Both males nodded then strode toward the women. They moved with predatory grace evident in all hybrids, but there was something more with these two. From the militant stiffness of their posture to the arrogant lift of their chins, they emanated authority. She’d presumed they were simply hunters. Now it seemed more likely that they were two of the pack alphas.
The blond clasped his hand around Shannon’s upper arm and headed for the door. The dark-haired alpha motioned for Evelyn to precede him and she went without argument. So, the blond was Caden and Mr. Dark-and-broody was Drake. Luna tucked the information away for later use.
The door closed behind Drake and Luna found herself alone in the clubhouse with Alex. A shiver raced down her spine. The village alpha was intense enough when his attention was split between a room full of women. Now that she was his sole focus her pulse thrummed and her mouth went dry. Leashed power was evident in every move he made.
“When your ship arrived on Rydaria,” Alex began, his gaze locked on hers, “we voted, by an overwhelming majority, to kill every human who set foot on our planet.” He paused, allowing the implication to sink in.
Luna glared at him. What an asshole. Good looking, but still an asshole.
“I was one of those votes,” he stressed. “But my attitude gradually changed. We need you more than we hate you. That fact alone is keeping you alive.”
“Charming speech,” Luna muttered as she rolled her eyes. “What do you want from us?”
“Claiming you as mates is the primary justification for allowing you to live.”
Luna’s mouth grew so dry she could barely swallow. Did he mean her personally or just the captives in general? “We’re more than our reproductive organs,” she insisted. “We work and possess a knowledge base and skills no one else can provide.”
“I’m glad you brought that up. I know you actively participated in our captivity, so consider this part of your punishment.” He paused as if to see if she’d object.
Luna met his gaze but said nothing. What was the point. Everyone knew that Luna and her roommates had actively participated in the Griffen Project. Luna would never apologize for what she’d done because she regretted none of it. The project was well underway by the time Luna joined the team. She solved problems and helped improve the formula. Her research made the hybrids stronger and healthier. They might despise what they were, but she helped, not harmed them.
When the silence became oppressive, he continued, “As I’m sure you’re aware, lupine shifters require genetically compatible mates to reproduce. You’re a well-respected geneticist. You do the math.”
Luna suppressed her gasp, but her eyes widened. “You want me to develop a transformation protocol that will enable you to b-breed with us?” She stumbled over the word, unable to get it out without a violent shudder.
“Forming mating groups has been the intention of every hybrid you’ve encountered. Don’t sound so shocked.”
“The other hybrids didn’t ask me to emulate Eugene Babcock,” Luna argued. “It might surprise you to learn that I find him just as reprehensible as you do.”
That statement was true of the other females, but Luna’s attitude about Eugene Babcock was more nuanced, more complicated. She found unwilling test subjects inexcusable. She found Babcock’s personality and priorities detestable, but the hybrids resulting from the Griffen Project fascinated her. Babcock had created freaking shapeshifters. How could anyone deny the godlike brilliance of such an accomplishment?
“The basic protocol already exists,” Alex told her. “All you have to do is personalize it for each patient.”
“Not interested,” Luna stated emphatically. “The question is, why the fuck are you?”
Anger flared within his amber eyes and his voice grew even deeper. “What choice do we have? We did not ask to be transformed. The rules of our existence were defined by someone else. We must have compatible mates and you possess the skills to create them.”
“Why would you consider putting yourself through that hell again? Thirty-seven percent of your friends didn’t survive their first transformation.” Before Alex could respond to Luna’s initial question, she rushed on, “Where’d you get the formula? I can only think of two people capable of restructuring the transformation protocol and both are dead.”
The door flew open, snapping Luna’s attention to the other side of the room. Nate stepped into the clubhouse and heaved the door shut. Apparently, the wind had kicked up while she spoke with Alex. She drew her gaze away from the beta and looked at Alex again. “Where did the new formula come from?” she repeated.
“The source is unimportant,” Alex insisted. “I’ll give you full access to the development process and the developer’s notes. Your first task will be assessing the viability of the formula.”
“This had to come from Babcock.” A violent shudder passed through Luna’s body and she looked into Alex’s eyes. “Anything that comes from Eugene Babcock is toxic. Don’t believe his claims. Your genome already mutated. Attempting a second transformation will most likely—”
“The new protocol is meant for human females,” Alex cut in. “And with one simple modification, it will be ready for clinical trials. It’s in your best interest to facilitate the program because you are the ones at risk.”
Luna stared back at him silently, disbelief momentarily blanking her mind. “There is no way I will ever help you mutate human females. Neither will Evelyn.”
“I ask nicely once,” he warned. “After that I will apply pressure.”
“I don’t respond well to threats,” she volleyed, too angry for caution or fear.
“According to the simulations, the formula is stable and effective,” Alex continued as if she hadn’t objected. “However, it requires one small alteration. The DNA of each female is used to customize the formula specifically for her. This is the step you will perform.”
“You were transformed against your will. How can you even consider doing the same to others? That’s vile, even for a wolf.”
His lips pulled back into a snarl. “We’re fighting for the survival of our species.”
“I’m not part of your species,” Luna flared. “And I have no desire to become what you are.” That wasn’t true. Luna had always coveted what he was, but admitting the fact would be foolish. He would doubtlessly seize the knowledge and use it to manipulate her.
“We were not given a choice,” Alex snarled, his golden eyes glowing with lupine intensity. “Why should you be?”
“Are you really no better than Babcock?” Luna cried. Nate moved closer as the argument escalated, but Luna was too angry to care. The hybrids had valid reasons to be resentful, but that didn’t justify what Alex was trying to do.
“You helped create this complication and now you will help resolve it,” Alex stated emphatically.
“Like hell I will.” She lifted her chin and fisted her hands, more than ready for a fight.
Suddenly, Nate gripped the back of her hair and Alex stood directly in front of her. Luna twisted and kicked, trying to punch the beta. Nate wrapped his arm around her, trapping her arms against her sides.
“I tolerate disrespect from no one,” Alex informed her. “This will be the first of many lessons, I suspect.”
Luna continued to struggle but her efforts were wasted. Nate was strong enough to control her easily. “There is nothing you can do or say that will make me help you.”
“We’ll see about that,” Alex growled and Nate bent her over the side of a nearby table. Her torso rested against the wooden top and her legs were fully extended. Alex casually untied the drawstring on her pajama bottoms and pulled them down around her knees. Her panties soon followed, but the bastard took his time, exploring her naked flesh as he lowered the undergarment.
Luna held perfectly still. She knew enough about the hybrids to understand his motives. He was trying to intimidate and humiliate her. His touch felt good, shockingly so if she were honest, but she would not allow the unwanted responses of her body to control her thinking. His long fingers eased between her thighs and Luna sucked in a breath. It had been so long since anyone touched her intimately, so long since a good, hard orgasm swept reality away.
“Rydaria is not Earth. We play by different rules and the rules are absolute.” Alex brushed his fingertips over her folds as he spoke. His voice was deep and caressing. “The sooner you accept that fact, the easier life will be for you.”
Alex pushed two of his fingers into her pussy and Luna went wild. She twisted and reared, tugging frantically against Nate’s restraining hold. “Stop it! You do not have permission to touch me.”
A chuckle rumbled through the alpha’s chest. “I don’t need permission.” He slid his fingers in and out. His touch was bold and possessive, as if he had every right to handle her any way he pleased. “I claim you as my property. You are mine to punish, mine to fuck, and mine to share with anyone I choose.”
“Never,” she sneered, teeth tightly clenched. Already carnal need had begun to gather deep in her core, but she refused to give in to his manipulation.
He chuckled again, then slowly withdrew his fingers.
Twisting around to look behind her, Luna tried to determine why he’d changed his mind. His expression was grim, but his eyes burned with predatory fire. Instinctively sensing danger, she began to struggle all over again. Nate’s hands tightened, holding her down against the table.
Alex slapped her naked bottom and Luna gasped. She was no stranger to pain, but being spanked like an errant child triggered a shocking rush of emotion. Humiliation warmed her face and her inability to move made her feel helpless and vulnerable.
“You were sent here for a reason.” His hand fell fast and hard, moving back and forth with punishing speed. “Your education and skill contributed to the life we are forced to live. That same skill set will now enable you to make our lives better. You will assist with the transformation, or you will become my whore. Those are the only options I will allow you.”
An exasperated cry tore past Luna’s throat. “You’re a goddamn bully! You’re all bullies!”
Over and over Alex spanked her bare bottom. Each slap impacted her flesh with a bright burst of pain then heat crept across her skin and sank deep into her muscles. Luna tugged against Nate’s hold, desperate to escape the unjust punishment.
“Apologize for being disrespectful or this session will escalate.” Alex emphasized the warning with three sharp slaps to each bottom cheek.
Luna clenched her fists and shook her head. “I don’t owe you a damn thing. I’m not part of your pack.”
“No, you’re my bed slave until I say otherwise.” He bent and dragged her pajama bottoms off her wildly kicking legs. He ripped her panties off next and then spanked her even harder. “If you continue to defy me, I’ll punish you with my cock. And I won’t shove it in your pussy. I’ll fuck that tight little ass so hard that you’ll feel it for days.”
“Bring it on,” she snarled. “I’m not afraid of you.”
[divider]
Claws bit into the palms of Alex’s hands and his eyes burned as his wolf threatened to take control. Strong emotions always drew his wolf to the surface, and his emotions were raging right now. Luna was the most exasperating female he’d ever encountered. She was also the most intriguing. His wolf had been agitated ever since Alex walked into the clubhouse. He wasn’t sure if this was the start of mating fever, but Luna was definitely the cause.
She wasn’t beautiful in the traditional sense of the word. Her coloring was too dramatic, her style too avant-garde. Her jet-black hair had been cut into a shaggy bob that just brushed her shoulders. Her alabaster skin was flawless, smooth, and touchable. Her lips had been tinted mauve and overt liner accented her vivid blue eyes. He wasn’t sure if the cosmetics were permanent, but she’d had no way of reapplying them since her capture and yet the enhancements never changed. And her body. Alex could find no fault with her shape. She was tall and willowy, with high round breasts and a fabulous ass. What more could any male want?
Shaking away the distraction, Alex focused on the emotions of his irrational captive. He clearly smelled fear and yet she continued to defy him. Well, her rebellion urged his wolf to take control, to chase down and subdue his wayward mate. Alex took a deep breath and reversed the partial shift through sheer force of will. If there was even a chance that he could claim Luna as his mate, he needed to handle her carefully.
If all he sensed from her was defiance, he might have followed through with his threat to fuck her ass. Complete domination was a harsh punishment, but this standoff would continue until Luna gave in because Alex didn’t have that option. The survival of his people depended on convincing this stubborn woman to finish what Babcock started, so Alex could not show her mercy. At least not yet.
Alex kicked her feet farther apart then pushed his hand in between her thighs. Her folds were slick and swollen. Despite the fear he sensed, she was clearly aroused. A smile curved his lips, but he kept his voice low and gravelly.
Sliding his fingers in between her nicely rounded cheeks, he positioned his middle finger against her puckered hole. “Will you assess the formula or is my cock going to stretch this tight hole?” He pushed firmly, forcing his finger just inside her reluctant opening. “Choose right now.”
“Fuck me,” she snapped, her muscles clenching around his finger. “I want you to.”
Alex looked at Nate, shocked and confused by her attitude. Alex no longer sensed fear, but neither did he sense desire. Why was she challenging him if she wasn’t ready for his cock?
She’s using anger to fight off her fear, Nate explained. Scan deeper. She’s terrified.
Nate’s empathic receptors were more sensitive than Alex’s, so he had no doubt that his beta was right. Fear was a useful tool, but his goal was compliance, not subjugation. His wily captive clearly understood that intimidation was mostly a bluff when it came to the females. He was not opposed to teaching his hunters lessons with his fists, but he would never harm a woman. Frustrated and unwilling to traumatize their potential mate, Alex withdrew his finger and straightened his back.
Nate nodded toward the table to their left. Alex turned his head and smiled. A large salad bowl, complete with a wooden serving spoon, had been left there after the evening meal. Alex retrieved the spoon and wiped it clean with a discarded napkin before returning to their defiant captive.
“Punishments are ineffective if the female enjoys them, and you’re eager for a good ass fucking. We’ll try this instead.” He spanked her with the makeshift paddle.
Luna gasped then stilled and sucked in a shuddering breath.
“It stings, doesn’t it?” Alex taunted as he delivered another flurry of smacks.
“Fuck you,” she whispered, but already the insolence was easing from her tone.
Alex spanked her firmly, ensuring that his point was made without causing her any lasting harm. His strokes fell steadily with little pause in between. Her ass cheeks were soon bright red, and his rebellious captive swayed from foot to foot, no longer able to stand still.
“Apologize for disrespecting the village alpha,” Nate prompted as Alex continued the spanking.
“Will he stop if I do?” The question sounded choked and desperate.
Alex paused and rubbed her abused cheeks, squeezing each side firmly. “Apologize and find out.”
“I’m sorry I was disrespectful.”
The words were barely above a whisper, but Alex understood each one.
She’s nowhere near broken, Nate warned.
Alex looked at him and nodded. Her emotions were complex and convoluted, but strong enough for Alex to identify. Hints of fear threaded through her frustration. Resentment simmered in the background, yet he also sensed desire. He desperately wanted to sink his cock inside her. Dominating her sexually was inevitable if he was going to claim her as mate, but now was not the time. She was still too filled with rage.
Knowing what her answer would be, Alex still felt the need to ask the question. “Are you ready to cooperate or does this lesson continue?”
“I’m a slow learner,” she whispered, voice trembling.
Moving behind her, Alex grasped her nape and slipped his hand between her thighs. Go print an anal trainer, he told Nate. She’s not ready for our cocks, but I don’t make idle threats.
Yes, alpha. Nate released her and headed for the utility room in the back of the clubhouse.
Alex stroked her pussy, soothing and calming her. “Defying me serves no purpose.” He teased her opening then gently stroked her clit. “Obedience will be rewarded with pleasure. Doesn’t this feel nice?”
She shook her head, but her hips began to rock. Her needy flesh slid against his fingers and a whimper escaped her lips.
“Come for me, Luna. Your defiance only hurts yourself.” His fingers circled her clit as her emotions flowed into his mind.
She wanted to come, needed it badly, but stubbornness held her back.
Her pussy was so damn soft. Alex needed to explore her with his lips, to fill his mouth with her taste and fuck her with his tongue. But that pleasure would have to wait until she was less hostile.
“Surrender to my touch,” he coaxed. “There’s no reason to resist this pleasure.”
“I hate you,” she cried, her voice trembling.
Stubborn to the bitter end. He was disappointed but not surprised.
Nate returned and handed Alex the trainer. He had already coated the tip with lube. Nate held her down while Alex eased her bottom cheeks apart.
“Wait! What are you doing?” She struggled, jerking her shoulders and bucking her hips as she tried to rise. Nate’s grip tightened, holding her firmly in place.
Alex positioned the trainer against her back opening. “You’re not yet ready for my cock, but I warned you to cooperate or I would stretch your asshole. I don’t make idle threats.” He pushed the trainer inward, filling her, stretching her, with ruthless pressure.
She fought frantically for a moment then stilled, her breaths coming in harsh pants. As the trainer sank deeper into her tightest hole, Alex scanned her mind. He didn’t enjoy causing her pain, but the harsh sensations were having the desired effect. Her hands fisted and a sob shuddered out, but she stopped fighting the unwanted penetration.
“You are no longer in control,” Alex stressed as he slowly drew back on the trainer. “That fact will never change. Obey me and I will reward you.” He thrust the trainer into her forcefully. “Disobey and I will punish you.” He slid the trainer in and out several times before asking, “Do you understand?”
“Yes, you sadistic prick,” she sneered.
Alex delivered a flurry of slaps to her still pinkened ass then fucked her bottom roughly with the trainer. “You are going to spend a lot of time in this position if you don’t learn to submit.”
The harder you push, the more defiant she becomes, Nate pointed out. She responded better to your seduction.
Alex let out a telepathic growl. She needs to understand that I am in control.
Pain is making her stubborn. Control her with pleasure.
Alex eased his hand between her thighs and resumed his circular massage of her clit. He still penetrated her bottom with the trainer, but Nate had a valid point. Each time Alex became autocratic, Luna rebelled. “Relax, pet.” He leaned down and whispered in her ear. “Let the sensations sweep you away.”
Her slender body trembled and soft mewling sounds began to escape as the sensations gathered inside her. She was so wet that her juices soaked his fingers and all he was touching was her clit.
“Stop,” she sobbed, sounding miserable and lost. “Please, stop.”
“Come for me and your punishment will end.” He pushed the trainer deep and focused on her clit. “Surrender just a little.”
A harsher sob was expelled with her next breath and then her entire body tensed. She groaned, hips lifting. Then a violent shudder passed through her, and she sprawled across the tabletop limp and defeated.
“Good girl,” Alex praised. Leaving the trainer inside her, Alex stroked her back and bottom, giving her a moment to process what had just taken place. When she stirred restlessly, he carefully drew the trainer out. Nate was no longer holding her down, so he continued the soothing massage while Alex disposed of the trainer.
When Alex returned, Nate was helping Luna back into her pajama bottoms. Her panties were ruined, but she didn’t seem to notice their absence.
She averted her gaze, doing her best to hide her face behind her hair.
“Look at me,” he ordered as he reached her side.
“Just leave me alone,” she pleaded, lips trembling.
He cupped her chin and angled her face until their gazes met. “If you refuse to cooperate, I will motivate Evelyn.”
Her eyes narrowed and disapproval compressed her lips. “You wouldn’t.”
“I would have no choice.” He let that sink in for a moment before he added, “I’d rather deal with you. You’re strong and intelligent. And more important, you’re not afraid of me. You have no idea how refreshing that is. But I will not relent. I cannot.” He released her chin and stepped back. “Nate will escort you to our stockade. You have until morning to decide what you want to do. If you refuse me again, I will summon Evelyn. It’s as simple as that.” He nodded to Nate then turned on the ball of his foot and left the clubhouse.
He didn’t look back. Couldn’t bear to see the defiance he knew would burn in Luna’s gaze. The progress he’d made tonight was minimal. Frustratingly so. How could he learn about the forces that shaped her personality? Unlocking her past might give him more effective strategies to try here in the present. She intrigued him even as she challenged him. Maybe it was cause and effect. She intrigued him because she continually challenged him. Even before he’d been transformed, few people were brave enough to challenge him. Alex’s past was dark and sordid. He’d belonged to an environment that didn’t allow him to play by the rules. It would take someone with a strong personality to survive as his mate.
Drake and Caden approached as Alex crossed the village green. Perfect, now he wouldn’t need to summon them using the alpha bond. One of the most challenging aspects of becoming village alpha was taking control of the psychic connection linking every lupine alpha. The primary function of the connection was communication, but the village alpha could also send compulsions. The psychic pulses didn’t force others to his will, but the combination of pain and urgency was a damn effective motivation.
Alex, Drake, and Caden were cousins, so the two pack alphas were Alex’s closest allies. Aspen pack, led by Drake, was nearly as large as Riverside. Alex was more compatible with Drake’s personality, but both cousins played important roles. Caden’s pack, Bloodstone, wasn’t as large as Riverside or Aspen, but many of his hunters had unique paranormal abilities. Without the support of his cousins, Alex’s rise to power would have been impossible.
Unlike the well-organized common buildings, the cabins were located wherever the occupants chose to build them. It didn’t matter that the arrangement was messy and inefficient. A village without trees would have been uninhabitable for the lupine hybrids. Their wolves craved the sights, sounds, and smells only found in a verdant forest.
The three alphas started along the main trail that wound its way through the village. Alex slipped his hands into the pockets of his jacket and tried not to scowl. “I was hoping that the women would have a better understanding of Rydarian rules by now, but obviously they’re going to require training.”
Drake chuckled. “Is that what we’re calling it now?”
“The females should be trained by their potential mates,” Caden stressed. “We’re all too possessive to tolerate anything else.”
“I agree,” Drake said without hesitation.
Alex stopped walking and crossed his arms over his chest. He stared beyond his cousins as he considered the ramification of what he was about to propose. “This must be resolved as quickly as possible. I will train Luna.”
“There’s a surprise.” Drake’s laughter rumbled again. “You want inside that mouthy bitch. It was obvious as soon as you looked at her.”
Alex didn’t argue. They knew each other too well. “She has until morning to cooperate and then Evelyn’s training will begin. I’d rather not train two females at the same time.” He looked at his cousins as he asked, “Do either of you want to take on Evelyn?”
Drake shook his head and took a step back. “The timing is bad. Rebellion is brewing in my pack. I can’t take on a female right now.”
Many in Aspen pack had wanted Drake to make a move against Elias, the previous village alpha. If Drake had seized control, Aspen pack would have become the premier pack rather than Riverside. When Drake chose to support Alex instead of seizing control himself, rumors started circulating about potential challenges. Alex wasn’t worried about Drake. Drake was the fiercest fighter in the entire village, but his hesitation to take on a mate was not only understandable. It was wise.
Caden grinned, clearly pleased by Drake’s answer. “I’ve always been partial to blondes. I’ll gladly train Evelyn, but I’ll tolerate no interference.”
“Agreed.” It was the outcome Alex expected. Drake was methodical, always analyzing situations before he made decisions. Caden tended to rush right in.
“You’re going to have your hands full with Luna,” Drake noted. “That was one feisty female.”
“You both know I love a good challenge,” Alex said with a lazy smile.
“Dawn might be willing to help soften up their attitudes,” Caden suggested. “Kevin said Dawn is adjusting to mated life with surprising ease.” Caden’s younger brother Kevin and his beta had triggered bonding fever in one of the captive females six weeks ago. They’d been allowed to claim her, but Elias insisted that they do so in full view of the other captives. Desperate for his mate and seeing no other option, Kevin had reluctantly agreed. But despite the traumatic start to the relationship, Dawn had adjusted quickly to pack life and seemed genuinely happy with her mates. Caden was right. She could be a valuable ally.
“Have Dawn bring Luna and Evelyn their meals,” Alex decided. “They need to hear from one of their own that we’re not all evil.”
“I’ll take care of it,” Caden assured and the three alphas headed for their designated areas of the village.
Nate had yet to return when Alex arrived at the cabin they shared. The cabin was large and well furnished, as was proper for the village alpha. There were two fully enclosed bedrooms, each with its own bathroom. There was also a matter generator, one of only six in the entire village. Alex had felt overwhelmed by the luxury when he’d first seen the alpha’s cabin. But he’d lived here for over a month now, so he was used to the conveniences.
When Nate arrived a few minutes later, he was grinning from ear to ear.
“Who put that expression on your face?” Alex demanded. “It takes a lot to make you smile.”
“Our mouthy little hellion,” he said without hesitation. “At least I hope to fuck you intend to claim her because I can’t wait to get my hands on Luna. She was two seconds away from another bare-assed spanking on the way to the stockade. She is going to test us at every turn.”
“Let her try. She’s going to grow accustomed to our hands and our cocks,” Alex predicted. “Because I have every intention of claiming the hellion.”
“Thank God.” Nate dropped down onto one of the chairs facing Alex with a groan. “I really need some sleep. The past few weeks have been crazy.”
“You’ve had some time to process what you heard and sensed yesterday. What do you think about Gabriel?”
Alex met with one of the Eagle brothers the day before. Raphael, the other brother, had thrown his support behind the cats, but Gabriel seemed determined to remain neutral. The meeting had been tense and brief. Worse, Alex wasn’t convinced it had accomplished anything. “Did you believe him?”
“It’s irrelevant. Neutrality is no longer possible,” Nate insisted. “We all lost the option when the females arrived on Rydaria. The birds will side with the cats because the cats control the females.”
Nate was right, of course. Alex had gone into the meeting with his eyes wide open. Gabriel wanted something he couldn’t have. All their lives had been redefined by Nuevo Biotech. They’d been struggling to regain control ever since, and the arrival of the females threw what progress they’d made into utter chaos.
“Do you think it was intentional?” Alex stroked his beard as he considered his own question.
“Was what intentional?”
“Were the scientists sent here to set the villages against each other?”
Nate thought about it for a moment before he answered. His strategic mind and unflappable disposition were two of the characteristics that led to Alex choosing him as beta. “I think Earth wanted to wash their hands of the whole damn thing. I think they wanted every reminder of the fiasco as far away from them as possible.”
Alex just nodded. Thinking about their years at the Nuevo complex always filled him with rage, so he tried to leave the past in the past. “Will she help us? Is Evelyn enough of a motivation to make Luna reasonable?”
Nate threw up his hands and shook his head. “Only time will tell, my friend. Only time will tell.”
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