Chapter 29

Four Days Later “You sure they’ll welcome us?” I asked, glancing around an open field surrounded by pines, the scent fresh, yet an eerie sensation crawled down my spine. We were in the Den. This was wolf territory, and no one walked in here without being taken down. Everyone knew the drill—wolves attacked when you entered their territory.

Kahlo threw an arm around my waist, drawing me against him. I adored his warmth, the way he stared at me as if only I existed. “Baby cakes, after all the fucked-up shit we went through, I’m ready to take on a wolf pack to protect you.” He leaned down and kissed me, his fingers pressing into my back.

I softened against his rock-hard chest, my insides twisting into a knot at how much he affected me. And he was mine, never leaving my side.

Someone cleared their throat behind me, and I broke free to find Gage cocking an eyebrow. “Really?” He leaned close and stole a kiss, but I laughed.

Movement drew my attention to four timber wolves standing twenty feet away. I shuddered in their presence because they were large beasts, and I bet more of them surrounded us. Reed strode ahead of us, his chest puffed out and proud, and damn, he had the sexiest ass, even in his trousers. Though I’d been getting used to seeing him naked.

From deeper in the woods, a man emerged dressed in simple black pants, no shoes or shirt. Built like a mountain, he swept the long, black hair off his brow with a hand, revealing the bluest eyes. My hand rose to my short, cropped hairstyle that was spiked across the top; I had every intention to keep it cropped.

“Oryn.” Reed took the shifter into an embrace, patting his back. “How have you been keeping?”

“Better than you, my friend.” Oryn broke the man-hug and studied Reed’s bruised face, which was littered with healed cuts. That was no different to the rest of us, but we’d survived a brutal fight for our lives. Injuries healed, but coming back from death was impossible. Or at least I hoped because I wasn’t ready to deal with Faye or Leon again, or to see another gargoyle for the rest of my life.

Reed laughed. “We’ve dealt with a fuckhead, stopped a psycho witch, and saved my kidnapped pride members. Plus, I’ve found my beautiful and loving soulmate.”

Just hearing him talk about me with such tenderness had me smirking. Oryn glanced over my way, and I waved, then felt stupid and dropped my hand. “Hi, I’m Elliana. And this is Gage and Reed.”

His expression beamed and turned back to Reed. “I see you took my lead and bonded with more than just a beauty.”

Reed chuckled and looked our way. “It’s the only way.” He called us closer, and we joined them. Oryn towered over me, but it seemed all shifters did, and I had no problem with that. Not when I called three my own. I waited for a response from my mind, but my subconscious had fallen quiet ever since the battle four days ago. Not a sound. Had she pulled back, figuring I no longer needed her? Or was she tightly entwined with my curse? Though part of me missed her snarkiness.

“Come, the others are expecting you,” Oryn said, and we followed him deeper into the woods, the ground covered in dried pine needles. The wolves trailed behind us. Reed told me about a human female who’d once stumbled into this realm and had run into the three alphas who reign over the territory. They’d cared for her, and she’d aided them in fighting against a poison ailing their packs. She’d fallen for all three of them, and they’d loved her back. So just like me and my men, she’d also taken three lovers.

Now, I couldn’t wait to meet Scarlet, as she’d gone through shit before finding three shifters of her own. She might even offer me insight into how to handle all of mine, especially in the sleeping arrangement department. Did all of them share the bed every night or did she take turns sleeping with each? The four of us had decided we’d live in Reed’s territory, as he had a pride to lead and a family, and just knowing we were part of that made me smile. I’d been alone for so long, and now my life would change for the better.

Gage and Kahlo had already taken charge of preparing to build us a new house on the land. They’d both insisted on creating privacy for us a little ways from rest of the pride, who lived in smaller huts. Joy blossomed inside me at the notion of the men close, stealing kisses at every moment, and never being alone again. I yearned for that more than anything else. And once we built the house, Gage was going to fly out and collect Gingernuts. I missed him so much.

When we emerged from the dense woods, a new world came into view, and my mouth dropped open. An open field lay before us with a giant oak tree in the middle. An enormous wooden house was cradled on the thick branches. A circular veranda surrounded the building, windows covered in curtains, and a set of circular steps leading up to the home.

Kahlo’s fingers intertwined with mine.

“Wow! This is impressive,” I said.

Gage took my other hand in his and kissed it. “We’ll build you something bigger and grander. With a landing pad on the roof for me when I come in from my dragon escapades.” He wiggled his eyebrows, and I leaned in against his chest.

“Would those involve plundering villages and stealing gold?” I giggled.

“Nope. Because you’re coming with me, riding on my back.”

Kahlo nudged Gage on the shoulder. “Not before we build her a seat and harness, or she’ll fall off. I’ve seen your wild flying.”

Gage’s nose scrunched up. “I won’t be a donkey wearing a saddle. Fuck that. She’ll be safe on my back, but if you want to join us”—he smirked—“I’ll carry you in my mouth.”

Kahlo burst out laughing. “You’re hilarious.”

Gage leaned closer to my ear. “He thinks I’m joking, but I’m not.” Mirth danced through his words, and I loved the antics between the two, always trying to better one another, but they’d proven they cared for each other like brothers. While Reed might be the serious one of the bunch, when he let loose, he put these two to shame.

A loud squeal drew our attention to a crowd of at least two dozen men, women, and children rushing toward us. Reed hurried forward, and I cheered on the inside. This had to be his pride, safe and protected by the wolves. They circled him, each embracing him as he spoke to them, probably telling them about the good news. Oryn stood aside, as did many wolves in animal form. Were they his guards?

“Elliana!” Reed called out and waved us over. Uncertainty sat in my chest. Would the rest of his pride accept a human for his mate? Would they embrace him sharing me with two non-lion shifters?

The crowd parted for us, and Reed took me into his arms, kissing me quick, then turned to his people. “This is my mate. Elliana. Each of you will have time to spend time with her, discover how incredible she is. She’s going to move in with us, along with her two other mates, Gage and Kahlo.”

I held my breath, scanning the faces, but no one frowned or booed. They studied me with awe, not bothered one inch about who I was. Just that their leader had found someone who made him smile with giddiness, who held him close and tight. And at once, they closed in, hugging me, sniffing me to take my scent, offering words of gratitude.

A young girl approached me, and I crouched down to hug her. She whispered, “I like you. You make Reed smile more than I’ve ever seen him in the past.” Warmth engulfed me. I’d brought out that kind of cheer in their leader. By the time I’d finished with the greetings, Kahlo hugged me from behind, his arms laced over my stomach. “They love you,” he cooed in my ear. “And who can blame them? You have me enchanted.”

“They’re so friendly and welcoming,” I said. “I’ve never experienced so much kindness from anyone who didn’t know me.”

“Well, get used to it. Your life is about to change and for the better. And if you struggle, I’m there to catch you.” His eyes smiled, and he wrapped me in his arms, making me adore his strength and warmth. Having three men who cared for me felt strange, but it was growing on me fast.

“Shall we head to the treehouse?” Gage asked. “Someone’s calling us.”

Kahlo and I turned around to see Oryn up on the balcony. “Come on up when you’re ready.”

“You go up. I’ll join you soon,” Reed said before returning to his pride. It made me proud to see his attention focused on his family, the care he put into showing them they mattered. That was the reason I was drawn to him. Sure, his attractiveness played a huge part, but to discover the real man underneath had me captivated.

Kahlo led me by the arm, Gage on our heels. Halfway up the circular steps, Gage had his hand on my ass, squeezing. When I glanced over my shoulder, he smirked. “Just helping you up, sugar pops. Plus, it’s rare we get to see you in a dress.” He winked, and a tingle sparked in the pit of my stomach.

“Can’t argue with that logic.” Once we reached the landing, I gawked at the magnificent landscape spread out over the veranda railing. There was a carpet of greenery in every direction. Mountains jutted out in the distance, their snowcapped tips telling me that might be White Peak realm, where the bear shifters lived. “Gorgeous.”

“Yes, you are,” Gage added.

“Wonderful to have you here.” A female voice joined us, and we turned to a slender woman with chestnut hair reaching her waist. She was beautiful; even dressed in a simple V-neck dress that fell to her knees with long sleeves, she exuded a feminine goddess feel. “I’m Scarlet, and you must be Elliana.” She closed the distance between us and took me into a hug without hesitation. She smelled of vanilla, freshness, and a touch of powder.

I held her against me, adoring her hospitality.

“I love having visitors over. Doesn’t happen often enough.” When she broke free, she turned to Kahlo. “Tiger shifter, right? I can see it in your eyes.”

He laughed and embraced her before she faced Gage, who puffed out his chest. “Bet you’ve never seen a real-life dragon?”

Her eyes widened, and she clasped her hands to her chest. “Oryn just told me, and I jumped up and down—literally.” Her smile was contagious, and Gage didn’t miss a beat, already pulling his shirt up and over his head.

Kahlo stepped closer and clasped a hand to his shoulder. “Best not to strip the moment you meet a woman, you know!” He chuckled, and Scarlet’s reddening cheeks had me admiring her already.

“All right, I’ll go back downstairs, but be ready to be stunned.” Gage blew me a kiss, then vanished toward the steps.

A dark-haired man with soft features and a mischievous grin stepped outside, holding a baby wearing a yellow jumpsuit in his arms, maybe six months old. “Did I hear someone say ‘dragon’?” When he exchanged gazes, he nodded. I could see why Scarlet would have fallen for him. Aside from his strong cheekbones and gorgeous features, he carried a confidence about him. But with him holding a child, something in my chest shifted. I’d never given kids a second thought because my whole life had been about survival, but now things were different.

“Who is this gorgeousness?” I’d had no idea Scarlet had a child.

“I’m Nero,” teased the grown man as he placed his baby in my arms. “And this is my angel, Autumn.”

I cradled the little one, loving how tiny and soft she felt, yet when she looked up at me with huge hazel eyes, I was mesmerized. Her face glowed as if she lit from inside out. “Hello there,” I cooed. “Aren’t you adorable?”

“That’s what Scarlet says about me all the time.” Nero took Scarlet into his arms, holding her against him, kissing her, making it clear the honeymoon was far from over between the pair.

Kahlo was at my back, staring down at Autumn, his finger running the length of her button nose. “Beautiful.”

Just then, Oryn and another man joined us on the veranda, each carrying a baby and gravitating toward Scarlet. Wow, three babies. Their family was complete and the way they stared at her showed how much they loved her.

“Hey, I’m Dagen.” The new man shook Kahlo’s hand and offered me a side hug, kissing me on the cheek. He was captivating with honey-colored hair that danced across his shoulders. Stubble covered his broad jawline, and a scar lined his temple and hairline. “And this here is Alexy, and he”—he pointed his chin to the one in Oryn’s arms—“is Jay.”

“You’re blessed with three tiny ones to love,” I said.

“Don’t get me wrong,” Nero said. “I love them to bits, but even between the four of us, some nights, none of us get sleep when these three wake up and decide it’s feeding time.”

Scarlet laughed. “I wouldn’t change it for the world. But it’ll get crazier.” She rubbed her tiny belly, and her men drifted closer to her, watching her with awe and affection in their eyes. So much love that it made me gush.

“You’re pregnant? Oh heavens, that’s incredible. I’m so excited for you.” I hurried over and half-hugged her, Autumn between us. “You’ve got the most beautiful family. Congratulations.”

“Well, we had something to do with it,” Oryn said, arching a brow, his laughter loud and boisterous.

“Congratulations to the whole family,” I added.

Kahlo was there, hugging them, shaking hands, and I studied Scarlet’s beaming expression. She loved being a mom. Maybe one day, I’d be one too.

A roar sounded, and I flinched, but the noise set Autumn off, making her burst into tears, then the other two started as Gage glided overhead in his dragon form.

“Son of a bitch.” Nero half-hung over the railing, gawking at Gage’s splendorous golden form gleaming in the sunlight, his wings wide and stupendous.

With Autumn wailing in my arms, I followed the other two wolf shifters into the house filled with furniture. Paintings of the wilderness dotted the walls. Oryn and Dagen placed their babies in a triplet rocking bed, and I set down Autumn in hers. Oryn broke into a soft lullaby, and at once the three of them silenced, their eyes transfixed on their father. Like them, I could sit there and listen to him until I fell asleep.

I retreated along with Dagen, and he grazed my arm. “Reed is the most honest man I’ve met, and he’s lucky to have found someone who loves him.”

“Thank you.” I quivered with the reminder that Reed loved me. My heart ached at the thought of losing any of my men, and I couldn’t deny that I had lost my hearts to them all. “I’m the luckiest person in the world to have found Reed, Gage, and Kahlo.”

“A shifter’s love is unrelenting, so you’re in fantastic company with your harem.” He smirked and guided me outside. “I need to see that dragon. He’s incredible.”

Harem. I’d never given it proper thought to consider us more than a group that had bonded, but why wouldn’t it be a harem as well? I had three men all to myself, though I wasn’t sure how I felt about calling us that.

Out on the balcony, Reed turned up, and while everyone ogled Gage doing somersaults in the air, he drew me into his embrace. Face to face, his lips grazed mine and he kissed me with a passion I couldn’t ignore. A fire sizzled through my veins. There was nowhere else I’d rather be than with my men, looking forward to building a future together. Yep, this was just the beginning of a glorious new time in my life where I’d never be alone again, where I’d have someone to love me, where for the first time, I’d look forward to sleeping during the night. Kahlo joined us, and the three of us stared up at Gage’s stunts. Damn, he was incredible, and all mine, all three of them and I couldn’t be happier.

***

“I saw the way you looked at those babies.” Kahlo snuggled against my side as I lay in an oversized bed in a wolf hut. Scarlet had insisted we spend the night so tomorrow all of us could attend a wolf pack picnic. Our pride would join, so Reed’s guard made haste to collect the rest from Darkwoods. But night had fallen, and we’d retreated, the four of us to rest for the night. Though with the way all three men studied me, I wasn’t sure how much sleep we’d get.

Gage lay on my other side, resting on a bent elbow, his fingers caressing my collarbone before dipping toward the bedsheet I’d covered myself in because they’d insisted we all sleep in the nude. Another reason I doubted we’d get any shut eye. “Have to agree,” Gage said. “I watched you feeding Alexy and saw how it captivated you.”

“I don’t know what you’re all talking about.” Oh, I knew, yet I refused to admit that I loved the idea of having a baby. But telling the men that would mean opening up a different can of worms.

Reed crouched at the end of the bed, nude and studying like a predator. In a flash, he seized the blanket and ripped it off me, revealing my naked body.

“Hey.” I gasped and reached for the sheet, but he’d tossed it aside.

“I’m with Kahlo and Gage. If you want a baby, then we need to get to work making one.” Reed scooped up my foot and lifted it to his mouth. His tongue licked my toes, and I wriggled, giggling.

“Who said I wanted children right now? Just because I adored Scarlet’s kids doesn’t mean I’m ready.” Lying between three hunks without a thread of fabric between us grew harder to ignore by the second. My skin prickled and my nipples pebbled into balls. Especially with two men squished up against me, their hands roaming across my stomach, cupping my breasts.

Kahlo took one into his mouth, and I moaned, my head tilting back from the arousal stirring around my libido.

“That’s fine,” Gage added. “But I’m all up for practice runs, you know. Plus, you promised I’d get to watch Reed and Kahlo bringing you to orgasm.”

I came up for air just as Reed parted my legs and slid a finger along my silkiness. “Oh shit.” With their touches, I’d lost my train of thought. “What were we talking about again?”

Kahlo released my breast. “Giving you a baby. Don’t know about the rest of you, but I would love to be a father.”

“Me too,” Reed and Gage responded in unison. And three sets of eyes lingered on me.

Who was I kidding? Holding those little ones had had me cooing and dying to create a family of my own. I yearned to hold my children in my arms, help them grow into the most amazing people. “I’m with you,” I started, unable to believe what I’d said. But the smile on my lips hurt in all the right ways and I had no plan on retracting my words. “I must be drowning in lust because in your company, I float on clouds and would agree to anything.”

Reed crouched between my thighs, inhaling me. “It’s not lust, but love. And I’ve wanted nothing more than to make you mine for eternity.” His mouth latched on to my pussy, and I arched my back, purring beneath his attentive tongue. But to have both Gage and Kahlo watch him eating me turned me on beyond belief. I shuddered with arousal pulsing through me.

Kahlo blew warm air over my erect nipple, his hardness nestled against my thigh. “You mean the world to me, baby cakes, and I’m ready to do this.” His suckled on a nipple, raising my temperature as I moaned so loud, I lost myself.

Gage’s hand cupped my head and turned me to face him, the love in his eyes swallowing me. “I lost my heart to you long ago and knew one day, I’d finally make you mine. Now, you’ve made my dream a reality. Love you, honey.” His mouth crashed with mine, hard and unrelenting, I kissed him back with a vengeance. Needing him.

I rocked my hips back and forth, electricity burning within me at having three men devour me at once. If there was such a thing as fairy tales, I was living in one now. After all the years I’d been tortured, I still couldn’t believe this turn of events, but I had plenty of time to work on letting it sink in. But right now I had other things to focus on.

Reed’s tongue pressed into me, and I groaned, shaking as an orgasm already rattled through me, owning me, claiming me, just like my men.