Wild Desire (The Protectors Book 1) Read online

  Chapter Six

  Elias sat downstairs to wait for Mila. That woman was already emblazoned on his heart and that was the way it would stay for eternity. He started to worry about how she’d cope with the intensity of their relationship once they were a fully mated couple. He would have to tread warily with her and treat her as gently as he could. Mathis tried to explain it to him and said when he discovered his mate, his life would change forever.

  His reflections turned to Drake and the disgusting acts of violation he’d left in Mila’s home. Whether she liked it or not, he wouldn’t allow her to return. He wanted her where he, and other shifters within their community, could keep her safe. When she started her job as forest ranger in a couple of days’ time, someone would have eyes on her for the duration of her shifts.

  Women were the most precious thing in any shifter’s life. To be loved, protected, and cherished. Too many of his kind had disappeared in recent months. This was due to Scott Tech. Although, it would be extremely hard to prove. He and others of his kind knew of the so-called research facility at an old Airforce base, not too many miles away. Elias shuddered and rubbed at his arm. He’d once been a ‘visitor’ at that establishment. One of the lucky ones who’d managed to escape. If Mathis and other protectors hadn’t rescued him so close to his initial capture… the outcome was too frightening to even contemplate. His body tested and tortured. Sold to the highest bidder to commit acts of destruction. Or died like many others when the tests went wrong.

  Most of the hikers who’d gone missing without a trace were females. Some were used for hunting and slaying. Others for more recreational activities, to be used and abused by the workers at the facility. Shifters, and seers like Lily, were used for experiments… and breeding. A shudder ran through him. With each generation, seers grew stronger. Powerful and more at one with the natural elements around them. If Lily gave birth to a girl, she would have to be guarded constantly. How was he going to explain all of this to Mila without her thinking he was unhinged? The soft padding of feet and the sweet smell of wildflowers distracted him.

  His beautiful redhead stood by the doorway. She looked so damn gorgeous, hair still damp from the shower, hanging in ringlets almost down to her waist. Her clothing was casual; grey sweatpants and another clingy white tank top which accentuated her breasts. Focus, Elias.

  “Hey. Feel better now?” he asked.

  “Much. Thanks.”

  “Let’s sit outside on the porch. It’s a beautiful day.”

  He watched while Mila wandered around the room and headed into the kitchen. Elias followed her. She looked at the washing machine as though she’d never seen one before.

  “Something wrong?” he asked, leaning up against the counter.

  “Well, this is going to seem like an odd question.”

  “Fire away.”

  She studied the machine and then looked at him. “How come you have gas, electricity, and water this far away from all the power lines?”

  He chuckled, moved away from the counter, and strolled over to her. When he reached her, he brushed her damp hair away from her face.

  “Out of all the questions you must want answers to, you ask me this?”

  Mila blushed prettily and hid her face behind her hands. He pulled them away and held her to him.

  “Sorry. I did warn you it was odd.”

  “Okay, come on,” he said and led her to the swing chair outside on the porch.

  “I’ll answer that question first. There are many supernatural beings; Supernats we call ourselves, who live this deep in the forest. Like I told you, it affords us privacy from prying eyes, keeps us safe, and allows us to live relatively quiet lives. And even though we have powers, we still need the conveniences of modern life.”

  Laughter bubbled up inside her. He smiled quizzically at her.

  “I thought you might just do this.” She waved her hands around in the air. “And all the housework would be done.”

  Elias laughed harder. “Sorry to disappoint you. That’s not how it works.”

  He paused to gaze out over the thick trees surrounding them. The birds were singing and small strips of sunlight hit the forest floor like shimmering golden pools.

  “Our combined powers are utilised to control all the modern conveniences we require with natural power sources. It makes living this far out so much easier.”

  Elias studied her. She seemed happy with his explanation so far. He wondered what her next question would be.

  “Look, I always had a suspicion my parents were murdered because they knew something strange was going on. But not this kind of strange, I’ll admit. I never found out what. And then they said something to me several times over the years.”

  She became pensive.

  “What did they say?” Elias prompted.

  “That I had a special purpose in life. One I’d discover when I was an adult. When I was younger,” she continued, “I was considered strange by my peers, especially by Drake, because I preferred to spend my time in the forest with the animals.”

  “That’s because it called to you. It understood you were destined to return when you were older,” Elias explained.

  She picked up a small stone from the floor and played with it. “Hmm, I guess so.”

  “You’re taking all of this really well, especially after how you reacted initially.” He chuckled at a memory. “I remember when Lily first discovered she was Mathis’s mate, she left the area. It took her some time to realise her power of sight didn’t mean she was crazy. And when she saw my brother shift for the first time, she had to be prevented from calling the police!”

  “Trust me, Elias, I was about ready to do the same. I’m still scared and confused. And well, for you to tell me I’m yours is freaky. We don’t even know each other.”

  “It’s just as confusing for me, too. I’ve dated in the past, but seeing you was like being hit by a hammer. Such powerful emotions. Look,” he said, spreading his hands wide. “I won’t touch you or do anything you don’t want me to. We can start by being friends and see what happens.”

  His words were so sincere, but what was confusing her even more was her body’s reaction to him. Whilst she continued to study him, her body came alive with lust. He wasn’t only caring and considerate, Elias was hot. Smoking hot. His long brown hair, heavily-muscled arms, soulful eyes… she could go on forever. He appeared confident in everything. Watched her as if he’d take a bullet for her. And he was all hers. Then she panicked. How on earth would she be able to mate with him when she had no idea what to do? Her lack of experience concerned her, along with the intensity of the emotions emanating from them both. She tugged anxiously at her lower lip.

  He stood up and strolled over to her, taking one of her hands in his. He stroked the back of it gently with one calloused thumb. Her stomach did somersaults while she imagined his rough hands on her body. A shiver of need ran through her. Elias took a sharp intake of breath, his eyes darkened like black pools, and again, his nostrils flared. It was as though he could smell her scent.

  “What is it? Are you afraid of what you’ve learned so far… or is it something else?” he murmured.

  Mila’s cheeks burned. How did she spell it out to him? Her eyes lowered to the floor of the porch. Elias tilted her chin upwards with two fingers until she was left with no choice but to return his gaze.

  “Tell me. If I know what the problem is, I can help.”

  She shoved at his chest and walked away from him, holding onto the railing whilst looking out over the peaceful forest. He followed and stood next to her, his back resting on the railing.

  “It’s way too embarrassing, Elias.”

  “Is it about how we physically become mates?”

  Mila could only manage a curt nod of her head. Even her ears were flaming with embarrassment now.

  “It happens when we make love for the first time. I’m led to believe it’s a very intense and pleasurable experience for both parties. It can last for hou
rs, depending on how much stamina the couple possess.”

  Mila processed his explanation. She could hear the desire in his words, thick and heavy. Still, she remained silent.

  He stroked the length of her arm. “Mila, it will happen naturally. When you feel ready. A male would never force his woman to take part until it’s the right time for her. Never. We can do it whenever and wherever you want. You must tell me what you like best, so I can ensure everything is perfect for you.”

  That was it. Too much. Too soon. Way too embarrassing to discuss any further. She ran for the steps and fled towards the trees, away from the little garden which had been cleared at the front of his property.

  “Mila?”

  She turned to watch the confused expression on his handsome face.

  “I… I can’t do this. It’s all too much.” Mila turned away and ran blindly into the trees.

  Elias was shocked by her behaviour and chased after her, confused and a little worried. He caught her just before she tripped over a root. Tears streamed down her face, her breath coming out in short, sharp gasps. He pulled her against his chest. She tried to fight, but he held fast. After a while, when her sobs subsided, he led her back to his home and they sat down on the porch swing once more. He put one arm around her. Mila didn’t push him away, but her body quivered. He ran his free hand through her hair, making reassuring noises.

  “It’s okay. You don’t have to be afraid of me. I couldn’t bear it if you felt that way towards me. Mila, you are more than good for me. Please, tell me what’s wrong.”

  She wrung her hands together, focussing on the ground.

  “I wouldn’t know where to start with this mating ritual. If we ever get that far, that is. It’s… I.” She shook her head.

  “What, honey?”

  “I’m a virgin.” The words tumbled quickly from her.

  He swore under his breath and decided to respond via the more intimate form of communication between them.

  “I’m so sorry. I had no idea. I just thought…”

  Her head flew up, anger flashing in her eyes. “Thought what? That I sleep around?”

  He shook his head. “No, that isn’t it at all. You’re such a desirable, intelligent woman that I cannot believe no man has snapped you up before.”

  “And I’m supposed to believe that?”

  “Yes. It’s the truth. But I am glad you’re still a virgin.”

  “Why?” Her voice was softer now.

  “Because, it will be my absolute pleasure to know I’ll be your only lover. I cannot wait to show you how beautiful lovemaking can be. But only when you’re ready.”

  Mila’s mouth formed a cute little O once more as she took in his words. Her eyes had darkened and her breathing elevated.

  “Mine,” he murmured possessively.

  “What?”

  Not giving her time to react, his lips descended to hers. His mouth claimed hers in an act of complete dominance. Over and over he kissed her, his tongue running impatiently across the seam of her lips until she had no option left but to allow him access. Never before had she been kissed with such desire and passion. Mila tugged at his hair, pulling him closer to her. The kiss was hot and demanding. Lips clashing. Hands exploring.

  This was happening way too fast. She pushed at his chest until he broke from her lips. His eyes had a wild, almost crazed look about them. His nostrils flared, and he was panting heavily. Mila let out a whimper of shock when she witnessed the massive bulge in his already tight jeans. Elias looked down at her. His eyes smouldered with lust and a cocky grin spread across his lips. He didn’t even attempt hide how aroused he was.

  “I’m sorry, Mila, but I belong to you and you belong to me. Including this.” He indicated to his crotch.

  After all that had happened to her, she should have been shocked. At least been tempted to slap him. But right then, she was so turned on she didn’t know what to do. Even though she’d never had sex before, she was sorely tempted to allow him to lay her out on the forest floor. His mouth on her breast. Rough fingers grazing her swollen clit… Then she heard a deep, male voice filled with amusement.

  “Morning, Elias. Have we called at a bad time?”

  Elias cursed under his breath. He readjusted his jeans and she attempted not to look, again, at the impressive bulge at his crotch. Mila endeavoured to control her breathing and wondered how flushed her face looked. A man and woman stood at the foot of the steps to the porch.

  * * *

  “Elias?” the man asked with more than a little confusion in his tone.

  The man had to be Elias’s brother. They looked very much alike, although Mathis was bigger built. Like Elias, he was covered in tattoos. He had a winning smile, light brown eyes, a nose piercing, and his long hair was a few shades lighter than his brother’s. The woman beside him was about a foot shorter. Strawberry-blonde hair cut short but feathered into her face, giving her an elfin look. Her eyes were the palest blue Mila had ever seen. Her rounded-belly was huge.

  “Are you going to keep us waiting here, Elias, or shall we come back later so you two can…”

  “Enough, Mathis. I won’t beat your ass, but only because I wouldn’t want to upset Lily. How are you, Mummy?”

  Elias moved away from Mila and headed over to Lily. He wrapped her up in a huge bear hug, engulfing her completely.

  “Good thanks, Elias. Are you going to introduce us?”

  Lily glanced over at Mila. Her smile was warm and welcoming. Elias walked back to her and took her by the hand. He squeezed it with encouragement and led her over to the couple.

  “Mila, this is my brother, Mathis and his way better half, Lily.”

  Mathis pounced on her and gave her a warm embrace. “Hi, Mila. We have already met, although you were asleep at the time.” He had a cheeky, boyish smile which was infectious.

  “Good to meet you. Thanks for helping me yesterday, even though I didn’t know it.”

  “It was a pleasure. Anytime.”

  Mila turned to face Lily.

  “Hi, Mila. Welcome to the family. I’m so glad you’re here. Now I don’t have to deal with two grownup kids on my own.”

  The two women hugged, and when they broke apart, Mila could feel the bond of friendship which would grow between them.

  “Good to meet you too, Lily.”

  “Sorry, honey. I forgot to say they were coming over today.”

  “Yeah, we could see that, Elias,” Mathis teased his brother and winked slyly.

  “Let’s go inside before I really do kick your ass.”

  Lily held back. “Do you fancy taking a walk around Elias’s garden? Bet he hasn’t shown it to you yet.”

  Mila got the impression it was so they could have a little girl time without the men interrupting.

  “You okay with that, Mila?” Elias asked her.

  “Sure. It’ll be great to get away from all this testosterone for a while.”

  Lily laughed. “You’re learning fast.”

  Elias had created a beautiful flower garden at the front of his property, which Mila hadn’t really had time to appreciate. An abundance of beautiful colours, and the fragrance was fresh and relaxing. There were many bees taking their fill from the blooms.

  “It’s planted this way to encourage the bees. So many have been lost on this world so far. We have hives closer to where Mathis and I live. Plenty of fresh honey for all.”

  “I love honey. Sounds great.”

  “Hmm, it is. Come; you haven’t seen the best yet.”

  Lily took Mila’s arm and they strolled to the back of the property. Mila let out a surprised breath. There was a large clearing with a massive vegetable garden. She could see strawberry plants, raspberry canes, and even some fruit trees. Another area was filled with many different herbs, and there were coops and a huge run for chickens.

  “Impressive, isn’t it?” Lily said by her side.

  “How has he managed to clear all of this? Did he have to use magic?” Mila ask
ed in an awed voice.

  “No. All his own work. I think he did it to take his mind off being lonely without a mate.”

  Mila tried not to think of him working on the land. Bare-chested, muscles rippling, sweat beading on his skin, and his body covered with dirt. Wicked images of his messy hands touching her body, rolling around on the ground. Stop it, Mila. Just stop it. She shook her head.

  “But he’s had girlfriends, right?”

  Lily nodded. “Yes. So has Mathis. Only for sex though. No shifter can have a proper relationship with a woman. That only happens with their mate. I’ve heard they were always very popular with the women.”

  “Yeah, well, let’s face it, they’re both really hot,” Mila added.

  Both women giggled.

  “So, how are you dealing with all of this?” Lily asked her.

  “I’m having some real trouble. It wasn’t until Elias shifted in front of me that I knew I wasn’t completely crazy. Still can’t get over why Drake is targeting me like he is.” She shook her head as she thought back to her underwear.

  Lily grabbed her hand and forced Mila to look at her. “Mila, I guess Elias has told you I have powers?”

  “We haven’t discussed that yet. What powers?”

  “You have to steer clear of that man at all costs. He has plans for you. Plans which won’t end well if he gets you.”

  “What do you mean? He’s just a weird bully who likes to scare people.”

  “What he did in your bedroom, that was personal. It’s like he was trying to mark you as his possession.”

  “What about the dummy in my living room?”

  Lily grimaced. “He knows you don’t back down from fights. This was to goad you into going after him. Tell me, Mila, if Elias hadn’t been with you, what would you have done?”

  And in that instant, Mila felt the chills of fear spark along her spine. “I’d have confronted him.”

  “And that was what he was hoping for. Stay right away from him.”

  Lily was right; the man was evil. She wouldn’t let him get to her. But one way or another, she would have her revenge. With any luck, she might be able to discover what happened to Danger Man, too.