SWEET TEMPTATION

HITCHED LIVE, SEASON TWO

G.K. DEROSA

Copyright © 2023 Mystic Rose Press

All Rights Reserved. This book may not be reproduced, in whole or in part, in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system known or hereafter invented, without written permission from the publisher, Mystic Rose Press.

Print ISBN: 9798376162361

Cover Designer: Triff Designs

Published in 2023 by Mystic Rose Press

Palm Beach, Florida

www.gkderosa.com

Created with Vellum

To all my Vella readers who helped me write this story. I couldn’t have done it without you!

~ GK

CONTENTS

1.  Twelve Women, All Mine

2.  Totally Bangable

3.  To All of Your Desires Coming True

4.  Here We Go

5.  Curves and Twists

6.  A Deal with a Tiger

7.  Endless Lust Buffet

8.  Two Bachelors Are Better Than One

9.  Six Women and A Balloon

10.  Fangs?

11.  Sparkling Champagne and Poison

12.  Inconclusive

13.  A Demon Run Around

14.  A Sexy Scavenger Hunt

15.  A Win and a Lie

16.  A Midnight Swim

17.  Cupid Boxers

18.  Thank the Angels

19.  Covered in—Sushi?

20.  Choose Wisely

21.  Far from Flawless

22.  Let the Show Begin!

23.  An Easy Choice

24.  Who’s Next?

25.  Hook Ups and Screw Ups

26.  A Beastly Mistake

27.  The Nice Guy

28.  Morning After

29.  Sneak Peek of Dark Desire

Also by G.K. DeRosa

Acknowledgments

About the Author

1

TWELVE WOMEN, ALL MINE

Deacon

“Please, don’t cry.” I swept my thumb across Alma’s cheek, my heart breaking. Gods, I was such an asshole. I didn’t even really want to do this stupid show. But how could I pass up all that money? It would allow me to do so much for the High Claw Cliff tigers. I had no intention of finding love. I’d already tried that and failed, twice. No way in hell I was putting my heart out there again.

Which was exactly why I was walking away from Alma. Our history was too complicated. I’d loved her, was certain she was the one and then she’d met her fated mate. I understood how that stuff went; it was beyond a shifter’s control once the mate bond clicked into place, but it still hurt like hell.

Now, Alma’s fated was dead. I’d been there to comfort her and we’d reconnected, briefly. But there was too much baggage there. Not to mention, a part of me still loved Aspen. Truth be told, I’d fallen for her the first day I met her in the bathroom at the auditions all those months ago.

I shook my head dispelling thoughts of the past. None of that mattered anymore. She’d found her love, and it wasn’t me.

“I just don’t want you to leave,” Alma whimpered.

“It’s only eight weeks. I’ll be back before you know it.”

“With a wife.” Her lower lip jutted out, and a part of me wanted nothing more than to capture it. Falling into a relationship with Alma would be easy, comfortable, but I wouldn’t do that to her. She had two kids now, and a heap of responsibilities. As alpha of the High Claw Cliff tigers, so did I, but after the past few months, I needed a distraction.

“Not a wife,” I finally answered. “I already told you, I’m not doing this to find love. It’s just about the payout.”

“And the scantily clad women throwing themselves at you.” She narrowed her glassy eyes.

A deep, dark part of me enjoyed the jealousy. She’d hurt the hell out of me, and it was satisfying to see just a little bit of that come back to her. Petty, I know.

“It’s all part of the deal.” I shot her a mischievous smirk, then inched closer cupping her cheeks. “You’ll always be my first love, Alma. And I’ll always be here for you, but this is something I need to do for me, and for our pack.”

She nodded, her eyes sliding closed. “I know how much I hurt you, Deacon. If I could go back in time and erase all of it, I would.”

“Don’t do that. It wasn’t your fault. I get it.”

“Regardless, I’ll be here waiting for you when you get back. If you’ve fallen in love with someone new, that’s fine, but I’ll wait for you, nonetheless.”

I scoffed. “That’s not going to happen, and I’d never ask you to do that.”

Her hand cupped mine, slender fingers skimming my calloused skin. “You’re not asking. I’m telling you.” Her lips brushed against my own, the kiss sweet and tentative. Nothing like the handful of times we’d slept together since my return. Those had just been hot and fiery, an outlet for the pent-up frustration.

I didn’t want to have feelings for anyone. I was done with all that bullshit. This show was for one thing only: getting laid. Zero attachment, zero strings, zero heartache.

“Okay,” I murmured.

Releasing her, I glanced around my half-empty tent. I’d been camping out with the tigers for the past few weeks, traveling and hunting. It had been a nice change. Now I’d have to go visit Pops to say my goodbyes before filming started.

My grandfather was the only family I had left, besides some random cousins and of course Phoenix and Kenna, my adoptive little sisters, but they had their own troubles to contend with. Pops wasn’t doing great. I only hoped he’d behave while I was gone. The memory loss and paranoia had been setting in pretty hardcore lately which was why I’d insisted Alma and her kids move in with him. This way they could keep each other company.

I worried it gave both Pops and Alma false hope of my future with her, but it was the best situation I could come up with at the moment. My Pops’ den was large and most of all safe. After what she and the kids had been through, they needed that.

Alma strode toward the open flap, her lips pinched. “I only want what’s best for you, you know that, right?”

I nodded slowly.

“Have fun, Deac, and try not to break too many hearts.”

A rueful chuckle slipped through my clenched teeth as she walked out. Once she was gone, I slumped down on my cot. I had a week until filming started, then I’d be swept back to a new island in Mystic Cove.

A buzz of electricity raced up my spine. Twelve women. All mine. I couldn’t freakin’ wait.

Dax ticked his head at me from across the clearing, his signature aviator sunglasses resting atop the spikes of navy-blue hair. Like my own wild mane, it had grown longer since I saw him last. It had been nearly three months to the day from Aspen’s mating ceremony. The day I’d been forced to let her go forever.

Shaking the thoughts loose from my mind where they’d been permanently embedded, I marched toward the director of Hitched with my duffel bag slung over my shoulder. He held out his hand and gave it a firm shake. “Nice to see you, Deacon. We’re very pleased to have you aboard for the new season.”

I lifted a wary brow. “That sounded more like a Shep speech than a Dax one.”

He chuckled. “You’re right. Sheppard couldn’t make it, so he wanted to send his regards. He’ll be joining us at the villa this evening.”

“Great,” I grumbled. “I hope you guys lined up a decent dozen females.”

“Of course, we did.” He shot me a wink. “We even had a special VIP consultant to assist on the task.”

“Seriously, who?”

“Why none other than Ms. Aspen De Grasse.” His navy irises sparkled in amusement. “She was adamant about being involved.”

Damn, and I hadn’t even told her I’d decided to do it. She must have heard from the producers.

“And she has excellent taste in women.”

“I’ll have to see about that…”

He grinned again and flicked his sunglasses atop his nose. “This promises to be a very interesting season, Deacon. One unlike any other we’ve filmed before. I hope you’re up for the challenge.”

“Please, me with a dozen supernatural females? What are we waiting for?”

2

TOTALLY BANGABLE

Deacon

A wave of sultry air wafted over me as I stepped out of the portal and landed on the moist earth of Mystic Cove. Home sweet home. I hauled my duffle bag further up on my shoulder and took it all in. It had been six months since I left the cluster of islands tucked away in the Ocean Realm. It seemed like a lifetime and yet only a second ago.

Dax landed beside me, tugging at his shirt collar as he steadied himself. Landing a solid entrance via portal was always a challenge, but the warlock was as graceful as a prima ballerina. He pointed toward the thick copse of trees. “Your new home awaits just through there.”

He flicked his wrist and a pathway appeared, bending the towering palms out of my way. I always wondered how a powerful warlock like Dax ended up as a director of a reality television show. I refocused my attention on the clearing and could just make out the sprawling white structure and deep blues of the Manta Sea beyond.

“Go ahead. The camera crew will start filming as you enter so I will not accompany you any further.”

I nodded as my pulse began to quicken. Shit. I couldn’t believe I was really doing this. Again.

Stepping through the jungle, a faint buzz pulled my attention skyward. Two silver drones hovered just overhead, the red-blinking light of the camera catching my eye.

And we’re live…

Sucking in a deep breath, I forced my feet forward. Would I meet the females right away? Or would I get a second to acquaint myself to my new home for the next eight weeks? As I recalled, Aspen got at least a couple hours.

I marched on for a few long minutes, my thoughts swirling, until the deep greens gave way to a cement driveway. My gaze trailed up the path to a wrought iron fence and the three-story uber modern mansion clinging to the cliffside.

Wow.

It was completely different than the colonial-style villa from last season. It was nearly all glass… certainly not by accident. It would give the drones a perfect view of everything inside without the camera crew’s intrusive presence.

The gate opened at my approach, the groan of the towering wrought iron barrier shattering the peaceful silence. A large man sat in the petite white guardhouse and offered me a wave and a stern smile as I passed.

I marched up the winding driveway, passing tennis courts, sand volleyball, basketball, pickleball and every other possible court invented. To the right of the house sat the spa, a one-story building very similar to the one from last season, only with glass walls instead of the conservative concrete. Guess everything goes this season.

At the far end of the sprawling lot, a squat white building with fully functioning walls completed the compound. Likely the staff’s quarters.

I hurried my pace as I approached the entrance. Two-story glass doors slid open as I climbed up the tile steps. A familiar face appeared, calming my nerves.

“Welcome back, Master Deacon.” The woman reached for my bag, but I dropped it on the floor instead. No way she could carry that thing with her small frame.

“Madame Aurelia.” I smiled at the villa’s caretaker. “And Master just sounds way too formal. Deacon is fine.” The woman had always been a quiet presence in the household last season and yet everything had always been immaculate under her care.

“It’s wonderful to see you again. If there is anything you need during your stay, please do not hesitate to ask. I’ll manage the house and all the staff as always.”

“And you always did it so well.”

She beamed as she led me inside the house. A grand foyer with towering ceilings spread before me, the floor to ceiling glass windows extending all around the house. The Manta Sea stretched out before us, nothing but the deep azure of the water and the pale blue sky for miles around.

“Damn, that’s some view.” After the past few months of tiger camp life, I wasn’t sure I’d get used to the extravagance. I crept across the living room, terrified to scuff up the fluffy white carpet and pristine cream leather couches. A balcony hung over the precipice highlighting the incredible view of the coastline.

Aurelia moved beside me, silent as always. She pointed down toward the edge of the property. “There is a staircase that leads down to the beach. Only about two hundred steps.”

“Damn.”

The hint of a smile curled her lips. “There’s also an elevator which will take you straight down. There is a pool down below as well as one in the spa.”

“Sounds fantastic.”

Quick footsteps echoed across the marble floor, drawing my attention back to the entrance foyer.

“Prrow… The producers definitely outdid themselves when they found you.” A pink-haired pixie appeared around the corner, fluttering a few feet off the floor. Her translucent wings matched the hue of her neon hair. Lively silver eyes sparkled in amusement as she regarded me.

“Dawn, control yourself.” Aurelia sent the pixie a scowl. “Master Deacon, this is Dawn, your stylist.”

Her wings flapped in a mad tempo as she bounded closer. “O.M.G., I am so excited! I am going to make you gorgeous.” She paused and nibbled on her lower lip. “I mean, you’re already gorgeous, but you know what I mean.”

“Bite your tongue, dear, and go show the man to his room. You don’t have much time before the contestants arrive.”

My stomach took a nosedive. Shit, this was really happening.

Dawn wrapped her slender arm around mine and tugged me toward the staircase. I glanced up to see it rose three floors, the skylight letting in the glowing midday sun. “Follow me, hun. You’re on the third floor, just across from the ladies.”

“I’ll have your bag sent up, Master Deacon,” Aurelia called out.

“Just Deacon, please,” I shouted back. “And thanks!”

Dawn skipped up the steps, her wings alive as if powered by her nervous energy. “I am so excited for this gig. I promise I’ll do everything possible to make you look as bangable as possible.”

I choked on a laugh.

“Not that you’re not totally hot already.” She stared at me, pretty pink lips puckered. “I know I already said that, but I mean I’d totally—”

“Dawn!” Aurelia’s shout carried all the way up to the third floor. “You know the rules.”

Right. No fraternizing with the crew. It was one of the only hard and fast policies of the game.

“Oops, sorry.” She clapped her hand over her mouth. “Sometimes when I get nervous, I talk too much. That’s what my sister Mira says. She’s the oldest of the twelve of us and—” Her mouth snapped shut. “Sorry, there I go again. I’m just so excited for this opportunity. And I’m a huge fan. I watched last season, and Aspen was an idiot not to choose you. I am a hundred percent #TeamDeacon, just remember that.”

A smile formed unbidden.

“I mean I get the whole wolfy fated mates thing, but still. Knox was just so grumpy and a total alpha-hole if you asked me.”

A full out chuckle erupted from my mouth as we reached the third-floor landing. “I appreciate the confidence boost, Dawn. I think I’m going to need it to survive the next few weeks.”

“Oh please, you have nothing to worry about. Those twelve girls are going to be all over you.”

My dick twitched at the thought. Alma and I had been hooking up on and off for a while, but when I decided to do the show, I’d put an end to it because things were complicated enough between us. I didn’t want to drag it out and hurting her was the last thing I wanted. Now I was hard up. Which was odd because before Aspen, I hadn’t been serious with anyone in a long time. Meaningless sex was just what I needed, despite my possessive tiger, and I was sure I’d come to the right place for that.

“So this whole floor is yours.” Dawn motioned toward both sides of the hallway. “Down that way is the entertainment area. You have a movie theater, game room, bar, and small kitchen for late night snacks. And this way is your bedroom…”

“What’s through that door?” Just off the entertainment wing, another set of double doors caught my eye. Given my background with the Supernatural Intelligence Agency, I liked to think I had a high attention to detail.

Dawn’s cheeks rosied as she gave a nonchalant wave. “Oh, nothing. Just a linen closet or something.” She weaved her arm through mine and pulled me down the corridor. “Come on, just wait till you see your room.”

She practically sprinted toward the doors at the opposite end of the floor, allowing me only quick glances at the views through the all glass hallway.

“It’s like living in a fishbowl,” I murmured.

“I hope you’re not too tied to your privacy.” She smirked.

“I guess I’ll have to get over it quickly.”

She chewed on her lip as she paused in front of the door to my chambers. “Is it weird having sex in front of the cameras?”

Heat rushed up my neck at the thought that my stylist had seen me with Aspen. The network didn’t broadcast everything obviously, but someone still had to have gone through the raw footage. And what did end up on TV was definitely more than PG-13. “You kind of forget they’re there after a while,” I finally mumbled. Because it was the truth. At first, the cameras are all you see, but before long you get so sucked into the reality of it, they begin to disappear.

“Hmm, I don’t think I could ever forget.” Her wings fluttered nervously.

“Then you better not be having sex around here.” I laughed, and crimson flooded her cheeks.

“I would never!” A soft giggle escaped her mouth, drawing my attention to her pretty pink lips. I usually never went for the Fae. Most were too snooty and arrogant like my old friend Fallon, but maybe that was because I hadn’t spent much time with the lesser Fae. Dawn was cute and sweet, and her nervousness had managed to put me at ease. She ran her fingers through her pink bangs and swept an errant tumble behind her pointy ear. “Ready to see your room?”

I was so ready.

She threw the doors open and a sprawling bedroom stretched before me, but I couldn’t focus on the room itself, the basic blacks and whites, not with the three-hundred-and-eighty-degree views through the glass walls. It was like my room was perched atop a mountain.

“Wow, it’s incredible,” I murmured.

“I know.” Her pale silver eyes sparkled.

I finally tore my gaze away from the never-ending blue from the gentle waves of the sea to the white puffy clouds in the sky and focused on the bedroom. An oversized king platform bed sat in the center. I was tall, and I was fairly certain I’d need to jump up to climb on. A tall headboard made of the light wood from the kapok tree native to the island coupled with the black silk sheets gave it a modern but warm vibe. It was like the interior designer knew me personally.

“The closet is over there and the bathroom there.” She pointed at two doors on opposite sides of the room. “You have a full size, ten-person jacuzzi on the balcony, of course.”

“Of course.” I grinned. “What about the other three girls?” With twelve contestants, there were thirteen of us in total.

She shrugged, her lips screwing into a pout. “I guess you’ll just have to wait to use it until you eliminate some of the contestants.”

Ugh. I was not looking forward to that part. As hard as it was waiting to get chosen, I couldn’t imagine the stress Aspen was under for each elimination. I hated the idea of hurting anyone.

“And now, for the best part.” A mischievous grin curled Dawn’s lips as she sauntered toward a wall of bookshelves. She tugged on a book, and I immediately recognized the cover. Fifty Shades of Fae. Classic. A sharp groan shook the bookcase, and a hidden door slid open. “Come, check it out.”

My brows furrowed as I followed the pixie into the dark chamber. She flicked on a light, and a faint crimson glow filled the room. My eyes darted from corner to corner unable to remain in one spot for too long – sex swings, a funny looking stool with straps, a medieval torture rack fitted with fuzzy handcuffs, a chest of toys, whips, masks, everything and anything to fill your darkest desire.

“Damn…” I hissed out.

“Yeah, like I said, I think you’re going to have a lot of fun in the next few weeks.”

3

TO ALL OF YOUR DESIRES COMING TRUE

Crystal

My fingers tightened around the steel pole as the portal train ground to a halt. My heart beat out a manic flutter, and I forced in a deep breath. You’ve got this, girl. Any guy would be lucky to have you on his arm.

The brilliant blue lights of the vortex bathed the interior of the train car in an ethereal glow, and a moment later, the sleek doors slid open. Blinking from the sudden brightness, I stepped out of the empty train car and my booties sank into lush grass.

It took me a second of searching through my tote to find my sunglasses before I could focus on my new surroundings. I’d watched every episode of all the seasons of Hitched in preparation, but nothing could have prepared me for this.

Miles of endless sparkling blue and verdant green closed in around me. It was a thousand times better than on TV. Growing up in an urban city, I’d never seen so much nature. Bugs hummed, exotic birds squawked, and I suddenly felt totally out of my place in my hot pink leather jacket and white-washed skinny jeans.

A gust of wind blew strands of black, curly hair across my face and another portal train whizzed by. The sleek, uber-modern vehicle seemed so out of place on this tropical island. Much like me.

“Over here!” A female voice turned my attention from the train to a waving brunette with a tablet pressed to her chest.

In the shade of a towering tree with a trunk so white it looked like snow, stood a woman alongside four other females. Great, they must be the other contestants.

“You’re Crystal, right?” she called out.

I hauled my designer duffle bag further up on my shoulder and marched toward her. I was already regretting the heeled booties. Note to self: flat sandals only going forward.

The woman in a navy business suit and no-nonsense oxford extended a hand. “I’m Sam, Dax’s assistant. You know, the director?”

I nodded. I might have been a model, but I wasn’t a complete idiot. Most assumed beauty and brains were a paradox, but you know what they say about assuming. I’d done all my research before my arrival.

“You can just hang out here with the others until everyone has arrived.” She signaled toward the other four girls before rushing toward another incoming portal train. I didn’t even get a chance to get a word out, like where was the bell boy for my luggage?

With a grunt, I dropped my duffle on the ground and turned to check out the competition. The four women offered a wave, varying degrees of warmth in their smiles. Only one rushed forward with her hand extended.

“Crystal, right? Hi! I’m Harper. I was on the portal train in right before you.” The grinning brunette looked like she’d just stepped out of a Home & Gardening mag with her floral print dress and smattering of freckles.

“Yup, that’s me,” I finally answered, giving her hand a strong shake. If there was one thing my dad had taught me, it was no floppy fish handshakes. Firm and decisive all the way.

Harper pointed at the other three bachelorettes. “That’s Everly, Aurelia and Yzabella.” She pointed to the blonde, redhead and midnight-haired beauties respectively. I wasn’t one to be intimidated easily, but damn, these women were gorgeous. I couldn’t help but wonder what supernatural races each belonged to, but I knew better than to ask. Rule number one in our lengthy contract was not to divulge our supernatural bloodline or lack there of.

I’d seen every single species from all eight houses of Azar at the audition, not to mention quite a few human girls looking for their big acting breaks. Or maybe they were really stupid enough to believe they could find true love on a reality dating show. As a top model, I was in this for the publicity. Who knew when I’d eventually need to fall back on acting? It was always good to have all your bases covered.

The three women still stared at me, and I realized I’d never responded. “Oh right, nice to meet you. I’m Crystal.”

The redhead, Aurelia, sauntered over, her pale blue eyes searing into me. “You look familiar. Do I know you from somewhere?”

Doubtful. I didn’t hang out much in Azar. “I’m a cover model. You’ve probably seen me in a magazine or something.”

Yzabella laughed, the sharp sound grating on my eardrums. “Of course the producers would pick a human model.”

“I never said I was human,” I snapped.

Yzabella’s nostrils flared and a streak of crimson flashed across her pitch irises. Her pink lips curved into a wicked smile. “Whatever you say, darling.”

With that perfect porcelain skin, slender frame and mixed Asian heritage, Yzabella could have easily graced the cover of any fashion magazine. But there was no way I’d admit that out loud.

I eyed the four women, and the proud set of my shoulders faltered. I may have underestimated the competition in this game. And still, more than half of the women had yet to arrive.

Rose

The rolling peaks of Mystic Cove appeared at a distance, and I slowed the mad flapping of my wings to a more leisurely pace. Almost there. I’d have to shift back when I reached the island if I wanted to avoid a breach of contract on day one. But I couldn’t resist a flight to the warm, balmy Ocean realm.

According to the director’s assistant, the island we’d be filming on was the third largest. Easy enough to find. I narrowed my eyes focusing on the dozens of small isles that formed Mystic Cove. Once I’d settled on the right destination, I angled my wings toward the ground.

A flurry of butterflies spun around my insides, a mixture of nerves and excitement. After my parents’ epic love story, it felt like I’d been waiting my whole life for this. The day I turned eighteen I’d begged them to let me audition for Hitched. I’d been brutally rebuffed. Then again at nineteen. I learned my lesson by twenty-one, and here I was without their permission or knowledge.

I only hoped they’d be too busy with their own lives to bother catching the newest season of the infamous reality dating show. Either way, I was staying whether they liked it or not. I was an adult for gods’ sakes!

Soaring over the treetops, I searched the thick jungle for somewhere to land. Finally, a small clearing took shape, and I sailed toward the lush green. Eight weeks in paradise sounded amazing. After frigid temps for the past few months, I couldn’t wait to slip into a bathing suit and bake in the sun. No more council meetings, no more overbearing parents or annoying younger brothers.

Maneuvering between the thick branches, I gingerly landed in the clearing, tucking my wings back as I hit solid ground. Scanning the expanse of jungle, I checked the deep green canopy for drones or hidden cameras. All clear. I drew in a deep breath and focused on the magic that resided deep within my inner beast, and a shimmery golden mist covered my form. A moment later, I was back on two legs.

Running my hand through the dark hair I’d inherited from my father, I searched the ground for my bags. I’d strapped two huge backpacks on for my travels. Though I’d been told all my clothing would be provided, as a shifter I couldn’t go anywhere without a spare outfit. I spotted my bag a few feet away and quickly unzipped it. I shouldn’t have been far from the villa but moving on two legs would be slower than flying, and I didn’t want to be late.

Tugging a pale-yellow sundress from my backpack, I tossed it over my head and slipped on a pair of sandals. Oh, shnike’s, maybe sneakers would’ve been a better idea. Too late now. Throwing a backpack over each shoulder, I darted into the jungle.

Vesla

Devils, I hoped the new bachelor was Deacon. Now that was one hot wild cat, and I could not wait to get a taste. Rumors abounded about who the new bachelor could be, but the producers had kept it a big mystery since the auditions. I just hoped he was hot and huge. A whisper of heat stirred in my core, and I reveled in the fiery sensations as I tumbled through the darkness. Once I landed on the island of Mystic Cove, my powers would be cloaked or highly repressed at least. Not fun.

But based on last season’s contestants, some powers were not so easily stifled. I had a feeling mine would be one of those. I’d always had a special effect on males. A smile curved my lips as a pinprick of light appeared at the end of the dark tunnel. It was showtime.

The portal spat me out in a clearing, and it took a second for my pupils to adjust to the dazzling sunshine after the black abyss. Squinting, I could just make out the surrounding trees and circle of females.

“Oops, am I late?”

A brunette marched toward me, waving a stylus. “Not the last one to arrive at least.” She glanced at her tablet then back at me. “You must be Vesla?”

“That’s me.”

“Wonderful. I’m Sam, Dax’s assistant.” She gave me a very business-like smile before returning her gaze to the screen. “Then that means we’re only missing one contestant.”

“I’m here, I’m here!” A voice broke through the thick copse of trees to our right a second before a tall, raven-haired female appeared through the dense foliage. Long, dark locks were plastered to her face and a fine layer of sweat glistened on her brow. “Sorry I’m late. I got a little turned around.” She hiked her thumb over her shoulder and dropped her packs on the ground.

The other females shot her scrutinizing glances, and I exhaled a breath of relief. At least they’d forgotten about me. A house full of catty females sounded like a nightmare. If I wasn’t so desperate to get the hell out of well, hell, I’d never put myself through this torture.

“All right, ladies,” Sam shouted, “now that you’re all here, listen up. We have two hours to get you all camera-ready and from the looks of some of you, we’ll need every second.”

The brunette who’d just appeared through the jungle flushed, her cheeks growing even more crimson.

Sam clapped her hands, and two over-sized electric carts appeared through the trees. “Six ladies to each car, please. The drivers will take you to the villa where you’ll meet your stylists. Then at precisely five o’clock, you’ll be paraded in on unipeg as is Hitched tradition.” She paused and eyed each of us with a twist to her thin lips. “Any questions?”

“Who’s the bachelor?” a redhead asked.

“You’ll find out along with everyone else in a few hours.” She lifted an irritated brow. “Anything else?”

My hand went up, and she ticked her head in my direction. “Will we have to share rooms?” I needed my privacy and sharing my bedroom with another female would simply not work.

“Yes. There will be two of you to each chamber.”

A slight groan rolled through the mass of females.

Another hand went up, a cute blonde, then another and another.

“Okay, enough with the questions. I’m sure most of them will be answered once we’re inside the villa. We don’t have much time, ladies.” Sam clapped her hands and signaled toward the carts. “Let’s get moving. It’s almost showtime.”

Another wave of grumbles filled the air as we climbed into the electric vehicles. I had about a million questions swirling in my mind, but she was right, the one we were all most anxious to discover would have to wait until we were all camera-ready.

Who was the mystery bachelor?

Deacon

“Yup, totally bangable.” Dawn peered up at me, her twinkling eyes meeting mine through our reflections in the mirror.

Growing up, I’d always been somewhat aware I was attractive based on how the females acted around me, but unlike most of the other tiger alphas I’d never let it go to my head. But damn, Dawn had done a freakin’ fantastic job. Or maybe it was the black monkey suit she’d forced me to wear.

She spun the chair around so I faced her, that beaming smile on her face totally infectious. “So what do you think?” she squealed, bouncing up and down on her tiptoes.

I adjusted my collar, loosening my bow tie a smidge and tossed her a smirk. “I’d do me.”

“Samesies.” Her cheeks flamed, and she clapped her hand over her mouth. “Oops, sorry! Oh, flipping faeries, I’m so inappropriate. Please, forget I said that.”

A chuckle slid through my clenched teeth, releasing some of the pent-up tension, and I waved a nonchalant hand. “It’s already forgotten.” My gaze darted to the timer on the bathroom counter. Only ten minutes until I was due downstairs.

“Don’t be nervous.” Dawn took my hand and gave it a firm squeeze. For such slender fingers, she was surprisingly strong. “You’re going to do great. And remember, all those girls are here for you this time around.”

I nodded slowly. “Right.” Forcing myself off the styling chair, I hazarded one last glance at my reflection. My dirty blonde hair was longer than it had been last season but with all the gel Dawn had squirted on, it barely moved. She’d trimmed back my scruff so only a faint stubble remained. And I had to admit as much as I hated the tux, I did look damned good in it.

“Oh, one more thing!” Dawn scurried out of the bathroom, and I trailed behind her to my bedroom.

She rifled through a bag, the crinkle of plastic cutting through the weighty silence. Finally, she straightened and revealed a small opaque silver bottle.

“What’s that?”

“It’s the famed liqueur from Maginaria, you know the one that’s supposed to grant your deepest desire?” She grinned mischievously. “I swiped some from Dax’s room over in the staff quarters. Shh, don’t tell anyone.”

Another deep laugh rumbled my chest as she handed me the bottle.

“Now hurry, drink up.” She clinked an invisible glass to mine. “To all of your desires coming true this season, Deacon.”

I uncorked the bottle and swallowed down a deep gulp. “From your lips to the gods’ ears, my cute faery friend.”

4

HERE WE GO

Deacon

Fuck, I was nervous. Despite Dawn’s pep talk and the healthy pour of Maginarian liqueur, I felt like a pimply-faced cub going on my first date. I drew in a breath and stared down the endless staircase. My heart beat out a manic rhythm, smashing against my ribs with each inhale.

Get a grip, Deacon.

This was just for fun. No one expected me to actually find my fated mate on this joke of a show. I needed to let loose and get laid. Badly. And explore that kinky sex dungeon attached to my room…

I forced my foot onto the first step, then the next and the following.

“And we’re rolling…” A voice cut through my impending panic, and my eyes lifted to the blinking red light of the camera stationed at the foot of the staircase.

Shit.

A white blur shot across the frame, and a maniacal grin stared up at me. “Welcome, welcome, Deacon!” Methyss clapped his hands, eyes sparkling with insanity. Our master of ceremonies practically glowed in his pristine white tux and matching top hat. He lifted an invisible mic to his lips and crooned at a non-existent audience. “Ladies and gentlemen, I am thrilled to introduce the star of our show, the gorgeous, mysterious, tiger alpha of the High Claw Cliff clan, Mr. Deacon Darkridge.”

Heat flamed my cheeks as the spotlight razed up my body and settled on my face. I squinted beneath the brilliant light and sprinted down the remaining steps. Methyss pulled me into a hug, crushing me with his surprisingly firm hold.

“Nice to be back,” I rasped out.

He finally released me and held me out to arm’s length, eyes still scrutinizing. “Boy, do we have a season for you, my friend.” He winked. “Just wait till you see the ladies. I daresay you will not be disappointed.” He curled his hand into a claw and batted at me. “Prrrow…”

“Let’s get to it then.”

“Yes, yes, of course.” Our flamboyant emcee tipped his top hat at the entrance, and the doors swung open.

I marched across the threshold, and my gaze landed on the herd of unipegs suspended in the bright blue sky. They leisurely flapped their wings, showcasing the brilliant hues of the rainbow beneath their feathered appendages. I squinted to make out the ladies atop the mystical steeds but at this distance, most were still a blur.

“Are you ready to meet the lovely bachelorettes?” Methyss dragged my attention back to his wild eyes.

“Hades, yes.”

“Then let the show begin.” He clapped his hands, and I spun toward the floating herd once again.

My heart slammed against my ribs as one of the unipegs leapt forward.

Here we go.

The flying beast descended torturously slowly, but at least with my enhanced vision I could make out the first female’s details before she landed. Good gods, she was gorgeous. Her mane of raven hair fluttered around perfect cheekbones and pouty pink lips.

The unipeg finally landed, and my feet propelled me forward. Methyss’ arm slapped across my chest, halting me.

“Uh, uh, uh, Mr. Darkridge. The ladies must come to you now.” He shot me a wicked grin, and I stepped back, barely holding my tongue.

Folding my hands behind my back, I waited as the first female climbed up the steps, her glittery golden gown matching the intense amber of her eyes. I offered my hand as she reached the final step and those smoldering orbs met mine. Her cheeks rosied, only intensifying her beauty.

“Hi, Deacon.” Her lips parted into a shy smile, and my heart staggered on a beat. Which was insane because I wasn’t some silly teenager. “It feels like I’ve been waiting forever to meet you.” Her eyes dipped to our entwined hands, and the crimson across her cheeks blossomed more intensely. “Oh, I’m Rose,” she continued, then revealed a gilded rose from behind her back. “Something for you to remember me by.”

It’s the weirdest thing because I didn’t think I could ever forget. Maybe because she was the first?

“Move along, sweetheart.” Methyss nudged her shoulder, and her fingers unentangled from mine.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you,” I finally blurted before she disappeared through the doors back into the house. Smooth, Deac.

“You must keep it quick,” Methyss whispered. “You’ll have plenty of time to engage with the ladies at the ball.

“Right.” I lifted my gaze and another unipeg stood at the ready, his wings neatly folded across his dark hindquarters. The next bachelorette slid off, turquoise hair undulating around a heart-shaped face. I’d been so mesmerized by the first woman, I’d completely forgotten to attempt a guess at her supernatural kind. With this one, my guess was either Ocean or Fae realm.

She bounded up the steps with a beaming smile on her face, big soulful eyes staring up at me. She was tiny, barely reached my chest. “Hi! I’m Arista, and I’m so excited to be here. I loved you on the last season.” She extended her hand, and I pressed a kiss to her pale skin.

A gut-wrenching thought rose to the surface. Damn, all of these women saw me on the show last season, saw me hooking up with Aspen, pining over her, getting dumped… everything. I barely restrained a groan. “I’m very happy to have you,” I finally managed.

“Yay!” She clapped her hands excitedly and scurried into the house.

And the parade of women continued.

Harper came next. The girl was sweeter than Pop’s famous acasia berry pie, and I was fairly certain she had to be human. Her eyes were so wide as she took in the unipeg, the house, and me. She seemed shell-shocked for sure. Maybe she’d never been to the supernatural realm before.

“I just can’t wait to get to know you and the other girls,” Harper rambled. “Everyone seems super nice. I’m just so thrilled to be here.”

“Well, you let me know if anyone gives you any trouble, Harper.” Something about the girl reminded me of Jack, and an unexpected twinge tightened my chest. I’d have to keep an eye on this girl. I’d hate to see that sweet naivety destroyed. After surviving an entire season, I knew what shows like this could do to the innocent.

“Will do, Deacon, thanks!”

My gaze followed her slim figure until she disappeared through the double doors. A sharp throat-clearing spun my attention toward the next approaching female. Damn, I had to remember to send Aspen a thank you note after this was over. These girls were goddesses. A pair of crystal blue eyes locked on mine, a playful smile flashing perfect teeth. A wave of heat shot to my lower half, and I immediately hardened.

What the hades?

The female smiled and offered her hand. “Hi tiger, I’m Vesla.”

Damn, yeah, she was.

Once my fingers entwined with hers, pops of electricity ignited over my flesh. That heat raged, thickening my erection. She leaned closer, her warm breath tickling the shell of my ear. With our bodies pressed together, she slipped her hand between us and closed it around my cock. A gasp slid through my clenched teeth. “That’s only a little taste, Deac.” Her fingers throttled my dick, and I sucked in a ragged breath. “I want to be your first,” she whispered before releasing me and marching into the house.

Holy shifters.

Every ounce of moisture evaporated, and my tongue stuck to the roof of my mouth. I suddenly hated Slade. If he’d been able to wield power like that over Aspen, it was no fucking wonder he’d made it to the end. There was no doubt in my mind, Vesla was a succubus. And damn, I wanted her to consume all my sexual pleasure.

I’d barely caught my breath when the next woman strode up. The blonde eyed me with a smirk playing on her lips, and my breath caught in my throat again. The stunning woman could’ve been Aspen’s sister.

When she reached the top step, she pressed her body against mine, then dropped a kiss on my cheek. “Hey sexy, I’m Electra.”

I swallowed hard as my erection only intensified. “Hello, Electra.” I could barely restrain the rough edge to my tone as she wiggled against me.

“I cannot wait to show you a good time.”

“Me either.” I couldn’t help the ridiculous smile from splitting my lips.

“First dance is on me, wild cat.” Her fingers danced along the collar of my jacket.

“Deal.” I had to start keeping track of all these promises.

She brushed her lips against my other cheek before turning toward the entrance. My dick twitched as I watched her hips sway to an imaginary beat.

Was the first night too soon to hook up with one of these girls? Because damn, at this rate, I wasn’t sure I’d make it until tomorrow.

The striking redhead that jumped off the unipeg next only confirmed my decision. Yup, I was totally hooking up with one of them tonight. The only question was which one?

“Well, hello.” I shot her a smile as she sauntered up.

“Hello, yourself, handsome. The name’s Aurelia.” She cocked her head, pale blue eyes scrutinizing and pouty crimson lips puckered. “I brought you something.” She opened her hand and revealed a deck of tarot cards. “Pick one.”

I rifled through the cards and finally selected one. I literally knew nothing about tarot, so I stared at the two faces in confusion.

“The lovers,” she whispered. “It means there is a relationship in your life that could soon become more intimate.”

“Fantastic,” I murmured. “That’s what we’re all here for, right?”

She grinned and pressed the card to my chest. “Keep it for good luck.”

“Thanks.”

Aurelia spun on her heel and sauntered into the house with the others.

Six down, six more to go.

I glanced over at Methyss who threw me a thumbs up. I couldn’t help but laugh. I would’ve loved a break right about now. My head was spinning with beautiful women. How was I supposed to remember them all?

“Cut!” A deep voice cut through my internal musings and answered my unspoken prayer. A male stepped out from behind a hedge and pointed at me. “Five-minute break for hair and makeup.”

Damn, was I shiny already? I guess I had been sweating earlier…

Dawn appeared from inside the villa, skipping toward me, her face alight with amusement. “You’re doing great, D!”

“Thanks, D.” I shot her a grin. “So who do you like so far?” I asked as she began to douse me with powder.

“Hmm…” Her eyes drifted over my shoulder to the line of women in the foyer. “Not the one that grabbed your crotch.”

I choked on my spit. Shit, I hadn’t thought anyone had noticed.

“Yeah, I totally caught that.” Her lips screwed into a pout. “But don’t worry, I don’t think the cameras did. It was just my angle.”

“I blame it on you. You were going for totally bangable.”

She hmphed. “I’ll have to tone it down next time.”

A laugh filled my chest, the rumble throwing off Dawn’s perfect powdering.

“Hold still!” She swatted at me, and it only made me laugh more. “I guess if I had to pick so far, probably Rose or Harper. They seemed sweet.”

“I agree.” Or at least my head did. My cock on the other hand wanted a one-on-one with sexy Vesla ASAP.

Dawn ran her fingers through my hair, plucking at blonde spikes. “There, picture perfect again.”

“Thanks, D.” I squeezed her hand before she flitted away, her wings fluttering a mile a minute.

“And we’re rolling again in five, four, three, two, one…”

The next unipeg landed, and my eyes latched onto a pair of smoldering warm chocolate irises.

5

CURVES AND TWISTS

Those smoldering chocolate irises latched onto mine, holding my gaze until they reached the top of the steps. Words dribbled from soft glossy lips, and I finally dragged my eyes away to make out the rest of the next bachelorette. What the hell kind of power did she have? I wasn’t hard so she couldn’t be of the succubus variety…

“…Crystal.”

“Huh?”

She held her hand out, perfectly plucked brows puckered. “I said my name is Crystal.”

“Oh, right.” I shook her hand as heat flared across my cheeks. Gods dammit, Deacon, get it together. She had quite a grip for a female. “Nice to meet you, Crystal. Sorry, it’s been a lot…” I squeezed her hand with as much force as she pressed into mine and gave her a quick once over. She was easily the tallest female here with a slender but well-toned physique. Dark, curly locks cascaded over her shoulders and drew my gaze to a silver locket hung around her neck. The silver was worn smooth, as if she rubbed it frequently. The black gown she wore hugged every delicate curve of her body. Like all of them, she was gorgeous.

“I bet.” She threw her shoulders back and gave me a guarded smile. There was something different about her. Something I couldn’t quite put my finger on. We stood there staring at each other, neither flinching. She regarded me with mild… boredom?

“I’m glad you’re here,” I finally mumbled.

“Yup.” She curled a long lock around a manicured nail. “Well, I guess we’ll talk later.”

“Yes, definitely.”

My eyes trailed her sleek form as she sauntered into the house. Her hips swayed to a perfect rhythm as if she felt right at home in those high heels. Well, shit that had been a crappy way to start the second half. Game face on, Deacon.

As the next bachelorette approached, I compelled my lips into a smile. This was supposed to be fun after all, right? All I wanted to do was go hide out in my room with Dawn. Who knew meeting a dozen beautiful women could be so taxing?

A warm smile flitted across the mouth of the approaching female, and the tense set of my shoulders relaxed a smidge. A golden glow haloed her flowing, honey wheat hair which she swept behind her ears. Round ears. Definitely not Fae. And her figure was fuller than the typical lithe faery. My thoughts whirled to the last season’s bachelors and the Fae contingent. Dammit, the magical cloak had hidden their pointy little ears too. So really anything was still possible…

“Hi, Deacon, it’s a pleasure.” She rose to her tiptoes and brushed a chaste kiss to my cheek. “I’m Everly.”

Her sweet scent tickled my nostrils as she stepped back, a swirl of lavender and rose petals. Her flowy white gown was a sharp contrast to the other bachelorettes who flaunted much tighter and more revealing dresses. I didn’t mind a little mystery if I was being honest. My tiger loved the thrill of the chase.

“The pleasure is all mine, Everly. I feel like I’ve died and gone to heaven with all of you lovely ladies.”

A soft giggle escaped through her glistening lips. “We’re the lucky ones. We’ve all gotten to know you and you still know little about us.”

She was right. I was definitely at a disadvantage here. They knew all my dirt and baggage, and I was going in blind. I’d have to remedy that ASAP.

“Well, I guess I’ll see you at the fantasy ball.”

Ball? Oh, shit, how could I have forgotten?

I forced a smile. “Right. See you in there.” Damn, and I was already itching to get out of this suit and jonesing to get to know some of those ladies without so much restrictive clothing.

Huffing out a breath, I turned toward the next unipeg alighting along the driveway—with two women. The first with fiery burnt-orange locks and the second with jade green hair flowing down her bare shoulders. One wore all white and the other black.

Twins? I wasn’t sure I could handle that… Or maybe, yes! A swirl of heat licked down past my belt buckle.

The first bachelorette stepped forward, lifted her trailing black gown, and raced past her sister. When she reached me, she was out of breath from the sprint. “Hi!” She waved a perky little hand. “I’m Roxy, and good goddess, you are so much yummier in person than on TV. I cannot believe this is really happening, and I’m here talking to you in real life.”

“Um, thanks.”

“Hey!” The green-haired twin elbowed her way between us. “What the hell, Rox? I thought we were walking up together.” With one last glare at her sister, she lifted pale green eyes to mine. “Sorry, excuse my rude sister.”

“Half-sister,” Roxy snapped.

“Wow, so, half-sisters? I could’ve sworn you were twins.”

“Ugh, everyone thinks that.” Iris rolled her eyes. “We have the same mother.”

“But very different fathers,” Roxy added.

I eyed the pair trying to figure out what they could be. My first guess was Fae, but again, no pointy ears to confirm. I turned back to the one with the emerald waves spiraling down her shoulders. “Sorry, what’s your name?”

Thank the gods their hair color was so different, or I’d never be able to tell them apart. For half-sisters, they were practically identical.

“I’m Iris.” Those pale, mossy orbs fixed to mine. Okay, I could remember that. Iris with the green eyes and Roxy with the red-ish hair.

I took each of their hands and squeezed slender fingers within my big palms. “Well, I’m glad you’re both here. It’ll make things… interesting for sure.” I just might lose my mind and that was without twins.

“Move on, girls, it’s my turn.” A midnight-haired beauty sauntered up, her skin like the finest porcelain.

With a perfectly timed matching eyeroll, the sisters released my hands and turned toward the entrance of the villa.

“A pleasure to make your acquaintance, Deacon Darkridge.” The Asian beauty dipped her head, and my gaze caught on the intricate golden embroidery on her ruby kimono.

“And you as well.”

She lifted her petite hand, and I dropped a kiss on the back of her palm. “My name is Yzabella.” An elegant, lilting accent I couldn’t quite place rolled off her lips.

“What a beautiful name, and your dress is so unique.”

“Thank you. My maman made it eons ago.” She smiled, flashing perfect white teeth but somehow it didn’t quite reach her eyes.

“Well, she’s very talented, indeed.”

“Yes, she was.” A hint of sadness shadowed her piercing pitch irises, and a thick silence descended.

I pressed my lips together, searching for a change of topic, but nothing came to mind. I was all out of small talk for the day, apparently. “Um, anyway, I’ll see you inside at the ball?”

“Yes, of course. I love to dance.”

“Great, me too.” Lie. Why had that blatant untruth just exploded from my lips? I was so not into that fancy ballroom dancing shit. Give me a beer and some Red Hot Chili Peppers, and I’d shake my ass all night. Tossing my head from side to side, I squeezed my eyes shut and recounted all the women I’d met. Just one more to go if I’d counted right.

The clip-clop of approaching hooves sent my attention to the riderless unipeg trotting toward me. “What the…?” The huge white creature stepped closer and tossed her colorful mane. Strands of deep blue, brilliant purple, and vibrant pink hung over her long, graceful neck. She extended her wings, revealing a riot of colors across her downy feathers and stepped closer. She let out a faint whinny before nuzzling me with her pink nose. “Oh, nice to meet you, too,” I mumbled as I gave her a pat.

Mismatched irises found mine—one light blue and the other a pale lavender. She neighed again and tossed her head back and forth. My hand moved further up her head, scratching behind her ears. “Aw, you’re a sweet girl.” She leaned into my touch and let out a contented chuff.

“There she is!” Sam raced across the middle of the scene, a scowl entrenched deep in her lips. She grabbed a fistful of the unipeg’s mane and jerked her down the drive as she whinnied her annoyance.

“Hey!” I shouted. “What are you doing to her?”

Sam dragged the animal behind the line of cameras as I raced after them. I reached the circle of equipment, and a big bouncer stopped my forward movement.

“Crew only,” he barked.

I peered over the meaty guy’s head and over the rest of the crew, but both Sam and the unipeg had disappeared.

“What the hell, Dax?” I growled, searching across the sea of black-uniformed crew hiding behind the oversized production equipment.

A figure appeared down the driveway a moment later, drawing my attention away from my mad search for the director. Long, braided locks in blues and lavenders flitted on the breeze, and I met a pair of familiar mismatched eyes.

“You?”

A shy smile crossed the female’s face. “Sorry, sometimes when I get excited I can’t keep my girl under control.”

“You’re a unipeg shifter?” In all my years in Marlwoods, the realm of all shifters, I’d never heard of a unipeg shifter.

She pressed her finger to her lips. “Dax said he’s going to cut out the scene, so do you think you could keep it between us? It’s supposed to be a surprise, you know?”

“Yeah, sure, of course.” My head bounced up and down.

“Thanks.” She shot me a beaming smile as she turned up the steps. I trailed her curvy form as she darted up.

“Wait, what’s your name?” I called out.

She cocked her head over her shoulder, that cute smile still lighting up her face. “Oh, right, sorry. It’s Chance.”

Chance, the unipeg shifter… I rolled her name around in my head. I liked it.

A grin split my lips for two reasons now. That was it. I’d gone through the tedious part of the official introductions with all the ladies, and now it was time to let loose and really get to know them.

The steady flap of wings turned my attention over my shoulder. Another unipeg, a dapple gray one, flew toward the villa. What the hades? Had I miscounted? I ran through all the bachelorettes’ faces in my head. Sure, I couldn’t remember all their names, but I could have sworn I’d already met twelve women.

With each flap closer, dread bloomed in my gut. I squinted to make out the form atop the winged animal. Not petite or dainty, or curvy, not womanly or feminine at all. Wild, dark hair fluttered across the rider’s face, hiding any distinguishing details.

My heart thrashed against my ribs as the unipeg landed a few feet down the driveway, and a pair of familiar dark irises bored into mine. You have got to be fucking kidding me. “Slade, what the hell are you doing here?” I growled.

He slid off the unipeg, all grace and elegance in his black tux. “I was about to ask you the same thing.” He tugged at his bowtie, and his typical smirk slid right off.

“I was chosen to be the next bachelor on Hitched.” I pressed my arms against my chest, trying to restrain the brewing fury.

“As was I.”

6

A DEAL WITH A TIGER

Slade

Standing face to face with Deacon, I held my grin until my cheeks ached. Because we were filming and that’s what I was supposed to do. I was Slade, the smirky, sexy incubus. But inside, I was seething. I eyed the drone hovering overhead, that intrusive lens catching every second of torture. Shep had gone too far this time.

That asshole had begged me to return to the show, and I had been a fool to give in. Lucifer was gravely mistaken in choosing me as the dark lord of the fourth realm. How was I to lead an entire realm of the Underworld if I’d been duped by a smarmy human TV producer?

“Cut!” Deacon shouted. “Shep, where the fuck are you?” Crimson flushed the tiger’s face, fury roiling off his broad shoulders. He had every right to be pissed, as did I. And still, I forced myself to keep my cool. Because if I let the anger out, if I let go for even a second, heads would roll.

Sam appeared, seemingly from thin air, with her tablet pressed tight to her chest. “Sorry boys, Shep’s indisposed at the moment.”

“What a coward!” Deacon roared. “First, he sets us up in this twisted little game and then he doesn’t even have the decency to face us? He sends you instead?”

Her lips puckered, and she glanced down at the glossy screen. Maybe Shep was watching all of it. “Sheppard said he’ll return tomorrow morning after the ball to speak with both of you.”

Deacon scoffed, wrapping his arms across his thick chest. “I’m not going to a fucking ball with this guy.” He jerked his thumb at me.

“Hey, what did I do?” I purred. “I’m just an innocent demon caught in this mess alongside you.”

The tiger glared down at me, his pupils pulsating with fury. “You had no idea about any of this?”

“Of course not.”

He stepped closer. “You swear?”

“I would’ve never agreed had I known you would be here too.” And it was the gods’ honest truth. I had no desire to compete for these women again. I’d come so close to happiness with Aspen, and the idea of going through that again was horrifying.

The only reason I’d agreed to this was to escape my dark lord shackles. It had only been six months under my grandfather’s tutelage, and already I was about to gouge my eyes out. The inane politics of the Underworld were enough to drive anyone to an early grave. If it wasn’t for my half-cousin, the dark lord Azara, I would have abdicated my throne ten times over. She was the only one who could keep Lucifer and the rest of the jealous, bickering dark lords on a leash. She and her dragon mate were also babysitting my realm in my absence.

Deacon threw his hands in the air and released a frustrated breath. “So what now?”

Sam took a step back. “I’ll just let you two hash this out.” She stalked off and disappeared into the encroaching bushes.

Once she was gone, I smirked at my bachelor friend. “There’s no harm in enjoying one evening with all these lovely ladies, am I right?”

He cocked a brow. “Seriously?”

“There are twelve women in there, Deacon. You don’t think we can share them for one night?”

“I’m not doing any threesome shit with you. I saw that episode with you and Knox—”

“I wouldn’t take anything off the table just yet.” I shot him a wink, and he returned it with a scowl.

The tiger’s light brows furrowed as he regarded me with barely restrained contempt. “I’ll consider it on one condition.”

“What’s that?” I shot him an innocent smile. I knew exactly what he’d ask. Deacon was no fool.

“No using your powers on the girls.”

So predictable. “I promise I will try my very hardest, but as you know, there are some things that I have no control over.” Unless the cloaking spell Dax created for this season had been amplified, it had little effect on my irresistible powers last time.

“Just try, you asshole.”

An unexpected laugh tumbled out, and I threw my arm around Deacon’s shoulders. “Maybe we’re looking at this the wrong way, old friend. This could be quite a fun adventure for both of us.”

The tiger snarled and shoved out of my embrace. He picked up his pace, long strides eating up the distance toward the new super modern villa. He canted his head over his shoulder, grinning, and called out, “The sexy succubus is mine.”

Another laugh tumbled out as I trailed after him. Fine by me. I preferred to date outside of my species anyway. Not to mention, I had zero intentions of getting attached. I wasn’t here to find the next dark lady of the Underworld. I was here to spy for Lucifer, at least officially anyway.

Now this was more my style. I strode into the massive circular ballroom with walls made entirely of glass. The Manta Sea stretched out before us, nothing but endless blue as far as the eye could see with the exception of a smattering of small islands that made up Mystic Cove. My chest tightened at memories of my last time here. Of her.

Shaking my head, I tossed out the pointless images. Aspen was mated to that broody alpha ass. She’d chosen him over me, and that was that. My lips puckered; the dismal memories still ravaged my insides. I needed a drink.

In keeping with tradition, the producers had stuck with the fantasy ball opening night. Shimmery pixies flew through the air, twisting and twirling beneath the rainbow of lights. Unlike last season’s giant aquarium, this time a sprawling pool sat at the edge of the room. Mermaids and sirens frolicked in the clear cerulean waters. A few bachelorettes lingered on the ledge, toeing the crystalline surface.

I strode toward the bar where Deacon stood with two females, one blonde and the other a brilliant redhead. The tiger rolled his eyes at my approach but before I could get a word out, a blinding spotlight seared into my face.

A drumroll echoed across the chamber, and I couldn’t help but groan. A familiar face appeared through the glaring bright lights, all crazy smiles and pearly-white teeth. Methyss tipped his top hat at me before dipping into an elaborate bow. “Ladies and gentlemen,” he crooned, “it’s time for the first twist.”

All eyes turned to me, and heat burned my cheeks. Why had I agreed to this again? Oh, right, to escape my meddlesome grandfather and the heathens of the Underworld. I plastered on a smile as a dozen women circled me.

“You ladies all remember, Slade, right?” Methyss held the imaginary microphone to his lips.

Murmured yeses filled the space along with a very notable grunt from my tiger friend.

“How would you like it if Slade joined us this season? Instead of just one bachelor, you’d have two to choose from.”

Excited squeals and claps broke through the awkward moment. Deacon scowled at the bar, bringing a drink to his lips and gulping it down in one swallow. A prickle of guilt nipped at my insides. Deacon was a good man, and I hated how the producers had duped him. Both of us.

I cleared my throat, and the women stopped gawking. “It has yet to be determined if I will be remaining.”

From the corner of my eye, I caught the ghost of a smile on Deacon’s lips. I resolved to discuss this situation further with him in private once I drove away the flock of fawning women.

“Oh, please stay. I loved you last season!” A cute female with freckles and light brown hair wrapped her hands around mine and squeezed. Her pupils dilated as our flesh touched, and she sucked in a breath.

It took everything I had to tamp down on my powers. Some females were just so easily susceptible it was beyond my control.

“I’m Harper,” she murmured.

“Nice to meet you.” I pried her fingers off mine and scanned the ring of females. They were all gorgeous, of course, different sizes and shapes, hair colors and races. “It’s a pleasure to be here with all of you.”

Another female stepped forward, with long, straight midnight hair and porcelain skin. “I so hoped you would be here,” she murmured. She slid her slender fingers beneath my collar and jerked my mouth to hers.

She was shockingly strong for a petite female. I only fought her for a second as her lips devoured mine. Her desire filled the minute space between us, and I clenched my hands into fists at my side to keep from devouring her in return.

She finally released me and spun back, wiggling her fingers over her shoulder. “Yzabella,” she whispered before disappearing within the mass of females. “I hope you’ll remember.”

The remaining bachelorettes stared, eyes wide. Another woman stepped forward, and my pulse slowed for an achingly long minute. Aspen? Good gods, she looked just like her. My gaze lingered on the woman for another endless moment—the blonde hair, blue eyes, high cheek bones. They could’ve been related. My feet compelled me forward before I could stop them. “And what is your name, gorgeous?”

She rewarded me with a beaming smile. “Electra.”

“Mmm.” My nostrils flared at her sweet scent. Not arousal, like Harper or desire like Yzabella. No, this one seemed more immune to my abilities, which was a surprising relief. “Would you like to dance?”

Her eyes lifted over my shoulder to the brooding tiger at the bar. “I had actually asked Deacon for the first dance before you arrived.”

My friend marched closer, weaving between the mass of women. He clenched a glass in his hand, his knuckles white from the strain. “Nah, it’s fine, dance with whomever you want.” He lifted the caramel-colored liquid to his lips and drained it in one shot.

Electra glanced between the two of us, gnawing on her lower lip.

“Excuse me, ladies, I need to have a word with my friend.” I curled my hand around Deacon’s arm and tugged him away from the crowd.

“What are you doing?” he growled.

I kept going until we were out of supernatural earshot. Huddled in a corner of the vast room, I finally released him.

“What the hades, Slade?” he hissed again.

“I won’t do this, Deacon. I don’t want to compete with you over these women. I came to have a good time, and I don’t want to ruin this for you. Or me.”

His deep green eyes met mine, and he huffed out a breath. “This is so fucked up.”

“Agreed.”

We remained in silence for a long minute before Deacon’s eyes lifted to mine once more. “Why did you agree to the show? Last time I saw you, you were adamant you wanted nothing to do with it.”

“I guess a few months in the Underworld will change your mind.” I smirked.

“What’s the matter, dark lord? You can’t cut it with all those big bad demons?”

“On the contrary, it’s exactly as I’d expected it to be. I knew I’d hate it, and I was right. This was my chance at a little get away.”

“So you’re not looking for the one?”

I snorted. “I was just looking for a little distraction. Maybe a tasty meal or two.”

Deacon rolled his eyes. “You’re disgusting.”

I shrugged. Like I cared what he thought of me. “What about you? Why are you really here?”

“For fun, like you said.”

I wanted to believe him. Hell, maybe he even believed it himself, but I knew shifters. They were monogamous by nature. They longed for a lifelong mate. “So if we’re both here for the same reason, maybe we can make it work.”

“You think we can really share these women?” A deep growl vibrated his barrel chest.

“I can. I don’t know about that tiger of yours.”

He rubbed at the center of his chest, scowling. “I can keep my tiger in check, don’t you worry about that.”

“Good. Because I have no desire to confront that beast.” I shot him a smirk, which he returned surprisingly. “But if you truly want to find the one and my presence would be a hindrance to that, I’ll leave.”

He eyed me skeptically. “You would do that?”

I nodded. “I can find some other way to shirk my dark lord responsibilities. Maybe I’ll take a quick trip to Moon Valley and visit our old friend—”

Deacon lifted his hand, cutting me off. “Let’s see how tonight goes. Then we can both decide. Deal?”

I extended my hand, fingers closing around the big tiger’s meaty paw. “Deal.”

7

ENDLESS LUST BUFFET

Rose

“I can’t believe they’re both here!” Harper squealed as we stood by the bar. Waiting. Deacon and Slade had disappeared behind the rushing cascade of the lagoon in the back of the immense ballroom. Surrounded by a herd of impatient females, it seemed like they’d been gone for hours.

I sipped on the tall glass of malta, the beer from Draeko and my beverage of choice.

“Hello, Rose? Are you listening?”

Tearing my gaze away from the shimmering waterfall, I turned back to Harper. “Yeah, of course. Just thinking. I wonder if both bachelors are staying. Or is Slade just visiting?” This would really change the dynamics of the show. Two men? How was that going to work?

“I hope they’re into threesomes.” Vesla scooted in beside Harper and snapped her fingers at the faery bartender.

“Oh, my.” Harper giggled, her cheeks flooded in pink.

“Don’t scare her,” Aurelia snapped, running her hand through her wild mane of auburn hair. “The poor little thing looks like a virgin.”

“Hey!” The sweet brunette crossed her arms over her chest and scowled.

I could barely stop the smile from creeping across my face. Not that I had anything to laugh about. I’d only been with one other man myself. And at twenty-one that was pretty freakin’ sad. I blamed Dad and my overprotective brothers for that. No one wanted to mess around with the alpha’s daughter.

“I’m not a virgin,” Harper hissed.

“Oh, yeah?” Vesla clinked her flute to Aurelia’s and smirked. “Then tell me little girl, how many dicks have you sucked?”

Harper’s cheeks flamed, the deep crimson rushing all the way to the tips of her ears.

“Leave her alone, Vesla,” I snapped. “Even with the cloak, it’s clear what you are, and we all know what you’re doing.”

“And what’s that, princess?”

“You’re trying to get her riled up so you can feed off her.”

Vesla’s lips curled into a pout. “Do you have any idea how my powers even work, woman? I can’t devour her embarrassment.” She ticked her head toward the corner where the bachelors had disappeared. “It’s her pleasure I desire. And if one of those males discovers she’s a sweet little virgin, it’ll be an endless lust buffet for me.”

Aurelia laughed, her crimson lips a perfect match to her wild hair. “This season is certainly going to be an interesting one.”

I eyed her, trying to get a feel for what she could be. Vesla was the only one I’d gotten a clear read on. Anyone could figure that one out. Except for maybe poor Harper. My money was on human, and I was worried for her. The humans never fared well on Hitched.

“Come on, Harper, let’s go dance.” I gulped down the rest of my drink and slammed it down on the bar. “Just because the bachelors aren’t around doesn’t mean we have to stand by waiting for them. Let’s go have fun!”

She tossed me an appreciative smile and weaved her arm through mine. The dancefloor was empty, but luckily the DJ played a cool, upbeat song and after downing that last malta, I was ready to let loose.

A ring of girls side-eyed us from the bar, but I didn’t care. I’d grown up with females hating me simply for who I was. Throwing my hands up, I pumped my fists and shook my little ass. It only took Harper a few minutes of awkwardness before she joined in.

“Thanks for sticking up for me back there,” she whisper-shouted over the music.

“Yeah, of course. I’m not into that mean girl stuff. I know we’re all here competing for the same bachelor—or bachelors—but that doesn’t mean we should hate each other.”

She nodded, a smile lighting up her face. “I could really use a friend here.”

“Me too.” I took her hand and twirled her in a circle, setting her poofy skirt whirling.

When she twirled back in, she whispered, “Vesla was right. I am technically a virgin, but if we could keep that between us, I’d really appreciate it. It’s not a huge secret or anything, but it is personal.”

“My lips are sealed. That’s no one’s business but your own.”

“Thanks, Rose. I’m really glad you’re here.”

“Same!” I spun her out again, both of us laughing and soon breathless. A dark blur zipped between us, cutting me off from my new friend.

“May I?” Slade appeared in front of me, lips quirked in a mischievous smile, and held out his hand.

Oh, shnike’s.

I stood on my tiptoes to glance over his shoulder and found Deacon’s broad shoulders blotting out my view of Harper.

“Deacon will take care of her, I assure you, precious.”

I eyed the slimy incubus, brows furrowed. I didn’t understand why everyone loved him so much last season. The idea of getting off on other people’s pleasure was nauseating. I hazarded another quick glance at my new friend with Deacon. She was smiling and actually seemed happy. Gnawing on my lower lip, I finally nodded. “Okay.”

He took my hand, and the music instantly slowed. From the upbeat tempo, the beat dropped to a slow, sultry ballad.

“Did you do that?” I pointed at the DJ.

“Alas, I cannot take the credit. I’m sure the producers saw their opportunity for a romantic moment.” Slade’s hand wrapped around my waist, drawing me into his chest.

I waited for the rush of lusty emotions I’d seen overwhelm Aspen in the last season of Hitched. But I felt nothing. A tiny swell of disappointment blossomed, and I wanted to smack myself. It was completely ridiculous not to mention hypocritical, since I was just dissing the incubus, but a part of me was desperately curious.

I glanced up and met a pair of piercing midnight irises. “What’s the matter, precious?”

“Oh, nothing.” Heat rushed up my neck, but I willed it down.

His fingers tightened around my own, and tiny sparks danced across our joined hands. My breath hitched, and a faint gasp parted my lips. Dammit.

A dark chuckle rumbled through Slade’s chest, the vibrations echoing through me. “Just one little taste,” he whispered, “and no more.”

“How did you know?” I squeaked. Oh gods, this was so embarrassing.

“After last season, I can barely step out in public without getting bombarded by females wanting a taste of my powers.”

“It’s not like that—I don’t, at all, I um—”

He shook his head, smiling. “It’s okay. I simply promised a friend I would keep an extra tight rein on my abilities this evening.”

“That’s surprisingly decent of you.”

Slade’s dark brows slammed together. “Surprisingly?”

“Well, you didn’t seem to keep a handle on them last season. You used your powers to gain an advantage over the other bachelors.” Piercing orbs bored into me, and a trickle of sweat raced down my spine. “Forget I said anything,” I muttered.

He released me and took a step back. “I’m not forcing you to dance with me, precious. If you have something to say about my character, let’s get it out now.”

My lips thinned, teeth clenching.

“I get it,” he snapped. “No need to clarify. Good evening, Ms. Rose.” He sketched a bow and spun toward the bar. The girls swallowed him up in a wave of giggles and oohs and ahhs.

Harper

Hot tiger babies, I couldn’t believe I was dancing with Deacon. Sure, maybe it was a wing man thing because Slade wanted Rose, but I’d take it. The banging beat of the music relented, and a slow tune filled the air. The super-hot bachelor offered me his hand, and heat lit up my cheeks.

Strong fingers enveloped my own, and I could’ve sworn my ovaries sang. Stop it, Harper! I had no chill. Drawing in a deep breath, I forced the maddening beats of my heart to slow as Deacon’s arm wound around my waist. He smelled like citrus and sunshine. It must’ve been a shifter thing because I’d never smelled anything like it.

My mind spun with so much excitement I’d forgotten to speak. Had we been dancing in silence for too long?

I glanced up and found brilliant emerald irises watching me. A nervous giggle slipped out. Crap! Say something, Harper. “So is Slade staying?”

Deacon’s brows knitted, and a grunt slid past his clenched teeth. “Who the fuck knows.”

Oh fudge, kill me now. I hit a sore spot.

“I mean, I don’t care if he does or not. I just saw you guys talking and was curious. You’re more than enough bachelor for me.” Another darn giggle escaped.

His expression softened, and he released a breath. “I’m not sure yet. You know how the production team likes their drama.”

I shrugged. “I don’t actually. It’s my first time—” I clapped my hand over my mouth. “I mean on the show, not my first time with a guy. Obviously. I’m not a virgin.” Oh, please, stop talking! I chomped down on my tongue so hard I tasted blood.

He laughed, the tense set of his shoulders relaxing. “Sorry. I shouldn’t have snapped at you. The thing with Slade just surprised me.”

“Me too.”

He released a breath and glanced over his shoulder, and I followed his line of sight. Rose and Slade were gone. I wondered what had happened. They seemed to be having fun at first.

The click-clack of heels spun my attention to the approaching blonde. “Deacon, you were supposed to save me the first dance.”

“Oh shit, I’m sorry.” He released me and turned to the gorgeous female. Electra, I thought was here name. “Slade’s arrival kind of threw me for a second. I totally forgot.” He turned back to me and smiled. “Sorry Harper, hate to dance and run, but thanks for the dance. We’ll catch up later?”

My head bounced up and down. “Sure, no problem.”

Shoulders rounding, I rushed off the dancefloor. After a quick scan, I couldn’t find Rose anywhere. No way I was hanging out with the mean girls. There had to be a bathroom I could hide out in around here somewhere.

Darting around the gaggle of girls gathered at the bar, I avoided Vesla’s nasty glare. What the heck had I ever done to her? After another quick search of the massive ballroom, a narrow corridor caught my eye. Had to be the bathroom.

Scampering across the space in my way too high heels, I vowed never to allow my stylist free reign over my ensemble. The last thing I needed was to break an ankle. Dipping into the passageway, two doors at the end forced a breath of relief from my lungs. Found it.

As I drew closer to the bathroom, haggard breaths slowed my steps. I crept forward as a faint moan swirled through the air. What the heck? I inched closer still, my heart starting to pound, and a hidden nook appeared to the right of the men’s bathroom door.

A head of bright red hair bobbed just below my eyelevel.

I lifted my gaze and met endless obsidian orbs. A smirk played on Slade’s lips as he leaned against the wall. He groaned again as he dug his fingers into the familiar thick red curls.

I stared frozen for an endless moment.

The women’s bathroom door whipped open, and Rose appeared in the entryway. Her gaze darted from Slade, to me, then back again. Horror curved her mouth into a capital O.

Aurelia’s head spun around, saliva coating her chin as she kneeled on the glossy marble. She wiped the dribble clean with her finger, popped it into her mouth, then licked her lips. “Excuse me, ladies. How about a little privacy?”

Slade leveled his dark gaze on Rose. “Yes, privacy please. I wouldn’t want my vile demon nature to insult your delicate sensibilities.”

8

TWO BACHELORS ARE BETTER THAN ONE

Deacon

An irritating tune swam through my hazy thoughts, and my lids slowly opened. What the hell was that? The high-pitched whistle seeped through the cracks in my door, growing louder by the second. I huffed out a breath, and the stale scent of whiskey filled my nostrils. Ugh. Maybe I’d overdone it a little last night at the party.

I blamed it on Slade’s impromptu appearance on my show.

Running my hands through my wild hair, I grunted. No, it wasn’t his fault. It was all Shep and his twisted desire for drama. Slade had been as much a pawn in this as I was.

The whistling grew louder, the harsh sound echoing across my pounding temples. I shoved the comforter back, adjusted my boxers and trudged to the door. Whipping it open, I nearly barreled into a smirking demon.

“Slade, what the hell are you doing making all that noise outside my door?”

He shrugged and ran a hand through his dark, wet locks. Someone had already showered and gotten dressed. My nostrils flared. “Are you wearing cologne?”

“I am.” He grinned again. “Best foot forward and all that.” He peered into my room, craning his neck. “Can I come in, or do you have company?”

I shook my head then nodded. “No, I don’t have company and yeah, I guess you can.” I hadn’t even thought about where he’d slept last night. If the producers had planned this all along, they must have had another bedroom somewhere. I sure as hell wasn’t playing roommates with the incubus.

Slade sauntered in, eyeing the glass walls and the rumpled state of my bed. “Nice digs.”

“Where’d you sleep? I heard you hooked up with Aurelia.”

He raised a dark brow and scowled. “Oh, did you now?”

“Umhmm. The girls couldn’t stop talking about it.” Wrapping my arms over my chest, I let out a hiss of air. “First night here and you already had a female on her knees.”

“I didn’t use my powers.”

“Whatever.”

Slade grabbed my shoulder, dark eyes locking on mine. “I made a vow, and I kept it, Deacon. Aurelia just wanted to have some fun, so I obliged. I was hungry and annoyed.”

For some stupid reason, I believed him.

“Anyway, I suppose that’s the reason I came over here looking for you.” He walked toward the wall of windows, and I followed behind. “What do you think we should do about the show?”

I shrugged, my gaze intent on the shimmering blue of the Manta Sea. “I don’t know, man.”

He eyed me, something unreadable flashing across his dark gaze. “What did you think of the girls?”

“They seem fine.”

“Yes, perfect for a good time, right?”

The hint of a smile crawled across my lips. I’d danced with nearly all of them last night. Except for Aurelia because I didn’t want to be anywhere near her after finding out where her mouth had been. The thought of it made me shudder. Could I really share twelve women with Slade?

“Yeah,” I finally mumbled. “Look, I’m not sure how this would work. Are we going to be dating all the same women? Will they be split up?”

“Knowing Shep, it’ll be whichever way causes the most drama.”

“True.” I loosed another breath and tried to focus on the lapping waves to keep my cool. “You have no problem with sharing?”

A wicked grin curled the corners of his lips. “You know I don’t, my friend.”

I told myself I could share too, but realistically, I’d have my tiger to contend with. Even if I wasn’t planning on getting serious, he was crazy jealous and possessive. The last thing I needed was an out-of-control tiger.

“Your inner beast won’t eat me, will he?” It was as if he’d read my mind.

“I can’t make any promises.” I tossed him a smile in return.

“Let’s make a deal. If either one of us starts developing real feelings for one of the girls, we’ll be honest with each other, and the other guy will have to back off.”

That was awfully civil for the demon dark lord. “I thought we weren’t getting serious.”

“We’re not. I’m simply adding in a caveat as a precaution.” He extended his hand, and I eyed it warily.

Once we made the deal, that was it. We had a meeting with Shep in a few hours. We would officially be the two new bachelors of Hitched and would be stuck together for the next eight weeks.

Chomping down on my lower lip, I wrapped my hand around his. “Deal.” This would either be the worst eight weeks of my life or the fucking best.

Crystal

“Well, I heard Harper caught Aurelia on her knees sucking on Slade’s huge dick. She was so horrified she ran away.” Iris laughed as she recounted the story for the hundredth time.

It was all the girls had been talking about since last night. Not that I minded a little blow job once in a while, but it was poor form on the first night if you asked me. And in public? Girl…

A few of the other bachelorettes paraded into the foyer as we waited for Methyss to arrive with some big news. I shifted on the couch and tugged the hem of my sundress down a few inches. Today, I’d ditched my city wear and gone with my stylist’s choice, a beachy, flowy white number with wedge sandals. Much better for the jungle atmosphere.

“Do you mind if I sit?” A pretty blonde pointed at the empty spot beside me.

“No, go ahead.” I scooted over, and she gave me a sweet smile.

“I’m Everly, in case you don’t remember. I know there are a lot of us.”

“Right.” I held out my hand and gave hers a firm shake. “Crystal.”

“Oh yes, I know. I saw you last night out on the dancefloor with the guys. I wish I could move like you.”

A laugh tittered out. “Just some leftover moves from my clubbing days.”

“You’re so lucky. I was never allowed to go out much back home.”

My thoughts flickered back to the fantasy ball, and I didn’t remember seeing Everly at all. “Did you at least try to dance?”

She shook her head. “I’d totally embarrass myself.”

“Next time, just follow my lead.” I’d actually had a decent time last night. Both guys were flirty and fun, and while I didn’t expect to marry either of them, I’d decided the next eight weeks here wouldn’t be entirely horrible. I wondered if Slade would stay or if he was just visiting. The idea of hooking up with the sexy incubus sounded tempting. He was the complete opposite of my typical conservative picks. Dad would hate him. A twinge of pain unfurled below my collarbone. I shoved it back and focused on the bright blue eyes watching me. “So what brings you to this show?”

“My adoptive father finally agreed to let me fly out of the nest, so to speak.”

“Oh, cool. Well, this is definitely the place for an experience.”

She giggled. “So what do you think about Deacon and Slade? Do you have a favorite?”

I shrugged, drawing in a breath. “We don’t even know if they’re both staying, you know? I don’t want to set my eyes on one before we know more.”

“That’s smart.”

“And you?”

Her cheeks flushed a bright pink. “Oh heavens, I could never choose. Deacon seems so sweet, and Slade—well—” Her blush deepened. “He’s just so wickedly attractive. I’ve never felt anything like it.”

“Yeah, those powers definitely need to be on a tighter leash.” Mmm, but damn, was he tempting. He could be just what I needed to finally get over Mike. Just because I went for the good guy, the stable, financially secure stockbroker, didn’t mean I didn’t get my heartbroken anyway.

“Ladies, it’s time.” Sam appeared in the doorway, and I realized the room was full now. All twelve contestants filled the space in a rainbow of fabrics and colorful hues. “Let’s go see our bachelors.”

Deacon

Slade and I stood shoulder to shoulder as Methyss bounced on his tiptoes wearing a cheek-splitting smile. His wild eyes darted from us to the gorgeous women lined up in front of the window. It was time for the big announcement.

“Ladies and gentlemen, I have wonderful news.” He clapped his hands, and the whispering bachelorettes went silent. “This season, instead of just one bachelor, you lovely ladies will be competing for the hearts of two men.”

A wave of gasps and excited murmurs filled the air.

“Both Deacon and Slade have decided to remain with us for the length of the show.”

One of the girls’ hands shot up. Dammit, what was her name? I’d danced with her a couple times last night. Oh, yeah, Crystal.

“So how is this going to work?”

“I’m glad you asked Ms. Crystal.”

Yes, I was right!

Methyss’ gaze swept over us, and a maniacal grin flashed pearly white teeth. “Our first round will have the lovely ladies split in two groups: one for Deacon and the other for Slade, and then we’ll swap. From there, the males will have a chance to choose their top three from all the women for a more intimate group date.”

More mumbling from the women.

A terrifying thought streaked through my chest. What if no one chose me? What if all the bachelorettes wanted Slade and his damned incubus powers? I couldn’t really compete with that shit.

Another hand shot up.

“Yes, Ms. Rose?”

“What if there’s only one bachelor you’re interested in?”

Slade shifted beside me, his body tensing. I’d never asked him what had happened last night with the lovely Rose, but he’d shot straight to the bar after their dance and then disappeared with Aurelia.

“Regardless, you must date both bachelors.”

I scanned the sea of females, waiting for disappointment in their faces, but I only saw excitement in their eyes. I released the breath I hadn’t realized I’d been holding.

Methyss snapped his fingers, drawing my attention to a yellowing scroll that appeared in the palm of his hand. “Now, let’s begin. First up, the ladies that will accompany Deacon on the first group date. We have: Everly, Harper, Aurelia, Chance, Arista, and Vesla.”

The six women surrounded me, and I couldn’t help the smile from tipping up the corners of my lips. With the exception of Aurelia who I now wouldn’t touch with a ten-foot pole, I was psyched for our date.

“And that means that Slade will have the pleasure of the following stunning women’s company: Crystal, Electra, Rose, Iris, Roxy, and Yzabella.”

Rose’s lips puckered as she strode toward the demon dark lord. He mirrored her expression, and I wondered what was going on between them. She’d been the first contestant I’d met, and we’d really hit it off last night. Honestly, I was kind of disappointed she wasn’t in my first group.

“I can’t wait to find out what we’re doing on our date.” Harper sidled up beside me, her sweet smile infectious.

Vesla moved to my other side and slid her arm around my waist. Rising to her tiptoes, her warm breath skated across the shell of my ear. “I hope we can have some private time, tiger. I’m dying for a taste.” She ran her tongue across my earlobe, and a wave of goose bumps skittered down my arm. My cock hardened as fiery heat raced down below my belt.

Oh, shit, this succubus would be the death of me.

Clearing my throat, I wriggled free of her hold, in desperate need to put some space between our bodies before the rest of the women saw my hard-ass dick. I turned to Methyss, a sure-fire cure for my boner and raised a hand. “And what exactly will we be doing for this date?”

“I’m so glad you asked, Mr. Darkridge.” He steepled his hands and drummed his slender fingers. “Each of you gentlemen will be escorting your bachelorettes on a romantic hot-air balloon ride.”

9

SIX WOMEN AND A BALLOON

Deacon

The hot air balloon bobbed on the breeze, the rainbow pattern brilliant against the pale blue sky. Deep orange flames flickered from the burner, blurring the churning waves of the Manta Sea just beyond the edge of the cliff. The six bachelorettes surrounded the oversized wicker basket with plenty of room to accommodate our unconventional date.

Everly, Harper, Aurelia, Chance, Arista, and Vesla.

I’d memorized the dossier Sam had dropped off this morning while Dawn prettied me up. With a deep breath, I ran my moist palms over the back of my jeans and marched toward the semi-circle of beautiful women.

I was so damned nervous I couldn’t stop sweating.

A puff of white smoke veered my attention from my mad heartbeat to our maniacal emcee. He stepped out of the haze in the middle of all six women and wrapped an arm around as many as he could reach.

“Here he is, ladies. The yummy Deacon Darkridge.”

A few of the girls catcalled and whooped, and heat raced up my neck.

“Sexy,” Vesla called out.

Shaking my head, I shot the succubus a good eye roll. She ran her tongue across the bottom of her pouty lip, and my tiger stirred. There was something about her that drove him wild. Maybe it was the sultry demon thing, or maybe it was just because she’d grabbed my lonely cock on day one.

When I finally reached the circle of ladies, I was greeted by an onslaught of purring and cooing.

“Oh, Deacon, I’m so excited for our date,” said one.

“I love that cologne on you, is that patchouli?” asked another.

All their questions blurred together as they tried to talk over each other. Someone’s hand weaved around my arm, and I was pulled into one female, then another grabbed my hand and tugged me her way.

“Ladies, ladies!” I squirmed free of whoever’s hold and adjusted my shirt collar. “This is never going to work if everyone’s talking at the same time. Just take turns, okay?”

Each one nodded, but a second later a flurry of questions and comments filled the air once again. Shit. Maybe dating six women at once would be less fun than I thought. I was suddenly glad Slade was here to share the burden. I never would’ve been able to deal with all twelve at once.

“All right, ladies and gentleman, all aboard.” Methyss held the door of the basket open and motioned for us to enter.

I took a step back and allowed the ladies to file in first. Benches lined the four sides of the basket and still allowed for a good amount of space in the center. A huge ice bucket brimming with bottles of champagne was propped in the corner. Who’s driving this thing? I glanced around the field but nothing but crew encircled the lush green grass.

Once the ladies were settled, I waved Methyss over. “Where’s the driver?”

He lifted a nonchalant hand. “It’s magic.” He shot me a devious smile and snapped his fingers. The balloon began to rise, and a few of the ladies squealed in excitement.

“How do we get down?” I called out as the ground grew further away.

“I’ll take care of that. You just enjoy the date with all those enchanting women.”

The hair on the back of my neck stood on end. I shook off the hint of anxiety and shoved it far down. Just because so many things went wrong last season didn’t mean it would happen again. All the mishaps had been Fallon’s fault for keeping that huge secret. The show wasn’t actually cursed.

A delicate arm wrapped around my shoulders, and I canted my head back to meet a pair of icy blue eyes. “Hello, tiger,” Vesla purred. She pressed her body against my back, her breasts shamelessly rubbing against my shoulder blades.

Oh, come on. I could already feel myself hardening. This woman would be the death of me.

“Vesla…” I warned as her hand came around my waist. It lingered just an inch above my growing arousal. “As attractive as I find you, there are five other women here.” I tried to keep my voice low but with a basket full of supernaturals, it was unlikely our conversation was kept private.

She nuzzled my earlobe, her warm breath skating over the back of my neck. “I was hoping we’d finally get that alone time.”

“Next time, I guess.”

With an exasperated grunt, she released me and stalked toward the ice bucket. For the ice or the champagne, I wasn’t quite sure. Behind me, the murmur of steady conversation resumed.

I leaned against the railing and drew in a deep breath as a riot of colors streaked across the sky.

“It’s beautiful, isn’t it?” Chance appeared beside me, her rainbow of lilac and cobalt hair blowing in the breeze.

“It is.” I turned to her with a smile. I hadn’t had much of a chance to talk to her at the fantasy ball. She hadn’t joined in with the other women on the dancefloor. Which I totally understood. I would’ve rather been on the sidelines myself.

She cocked her head to the side, mismatched irises intent on mine. “So how are you enjoying the experience so far?”

“I was about to ask you the same thing.”

Chance shrugged and glanced back at the other females. “I’m not used to being surrounded by so many girls. I have four brothers, so this is kind of overwhelming.”

“Same here.” I chuckled. “I guess we’ll have to navigate through this new experience together then.”

She nodded, a smile curling the corners of her lips. “I’d like that.”

I wanted to ask more about her family, about life as a unipeg shifter, but I had to keep playing the game and her little secret, so I kept my questions vague for now. I couldn’t wait to learn more about her. “So what brought you to Hitched?”

“I guess the same reason as everyone else, right? To find the one…”

A full-out laugh burst free this time.

She eyed me, and a deep line formed between her brows. “What?”

“You really think that’s why most of these girls are here?”

“Um, I thought so.”

I felt like a total ass, and I forced my tone to soften. “Well, I hope you’re right. Anyway, I don’t care why the others are here. Tell me why you are.”

“There aren’t many of my kind where I’m from, so this was my chance to meet someone new.” Her shoulders lifted again. “I’ve watched every season of Hitched living vicariously through those girls, and when the opportunity came to apply, I decided I was tired of watching from the sidelines.”

“Well, I’m glad you’re here.”

“Me too.”

An errant breeze shifted the balloon to the right, and she stumbled into me, her elbow digging into my side. I let out an embarrassing squeal as her bone hit a nerve.

“Sorry!” she squeaked as I wrapped my arm around her waist to steady her.

“No, totally not your fault my sides are weirdly ticklish.”

She smirked. “I’ll have to remember that in case you ever get out of hand.”

Another smile spread my lips.

“Hey, no fair, you’ve totally been monopolizing him, Chance.” Arista scooted between us, electric blue hair spilling over her bare shoulders. She wore some sort of a strapless romper thing.

“We’ll talk later,” I called out as Chance slowly backed away, and Arista filled her spot.

“Sorry, I probably came off as a total bitch, but the competition is intense, and I wanted to get a chance to talk to you.”

I liked the honesty. “No problem, I get it. I was in your shoes not that long ago.”

“Oh, I know. I loved you last season. Aspen was insane to choose Knox over you, if you asked me.”

It seemed like the consensus, and yet, here we were.

“And you’ve already moved up a couple spots in my book.” I tossed her a smirk. “Since you already know so much about me, can you tell me a little something about yourself? Maybe something no one else knows.” I was pretty sure this girl was from the Ocean Realm, that hair was a dead giveaway. It was a perfect match to the underwater kingdom she resided in.

“Well, you’re probably not going to like it, but… I’m betrothed.”

My jaw dropped, and I was fairly certain someone would have to scrape it off the ground. “Umm, yeah, I definitely didn’t expect you to say that.” I paused, scrutinizing the overly straightforward woman in front of me. “So why are you here?”

“A last hurrah before I’m shackled to Lord Waverly for the rest of my life.”

I snorted on a laugh.

“He has no idea I’m here, obviously. He’d never be caught dead watching this sort of smut.”

“What if someone else tells him about it?”

“Oh, I’m praying to all the gods they do, and he decides to break off the engagement. But it’s doubtful he would. I’m kind of a catch.”

I laughed again because I’m so baffled by this entire conversation, I’m not sure what else to do.

Arista stepped closer, big doe eyes batting navy lashes. “So if you’re in the mood for some fun, come find me.” She cocked her head back over her shoulder at the circle of women. “In private, of course.”

“Of course.”

She spun around, leaving me with my jaw still unhinged. Something about hooking up with a betrothed woman seemed wrong, but a tiny swell of excitement bubbled in the dark corners anyway. I was always the good guy. Maybe it would be fun to be someone else for once.

Somehow, I’d managed to avoid Aurelia for the majority of the date. I hated being rude, but even though I hadn’t seen it, every time I looked at the pretty red-head, I imagined the girl on her knees with her lips around Slade’s huge dick.

I was not a man who typically compared size because I was well-endowed thank the gods, but you’d have to be blind not to be aware of the dark lord’s freakish length. I told myself it didn’t matter, but who the fuck was I kidding? We all knew it did.

Shaking off the unwanted thoughts, I hazarded a glance at the bachelorettes. There was one I still hadn’t said more than a few words to. Everly. She sat on the bench opposite mine with a nearly full champagne flute in hand. She took an occasional sip as she stared off into the distance, but her heart just didn’t seem in it.

Grabbing my own glass, I rose and folded down beside her. “Hi.”

“Oh, hi.” Her cheeks flamed, and her fingers tightened around the flute, knuckles whitening.

“Are you having fun?”

“Yes, absolutely, this is great.”

I wagged my finger at her. “Don’t lie to me, young lady. I have a nose for sniffing this sort of thing out.”

A rueful chuckle parted her lips, magnifying her beauty ten-fold. The girl had a face like an angel with full rosy cheeks, a pouty pink mouth and topped off with long, flowing blonde locks.

“I don’t really know how to date.”

“I don’t believe it. You are too gorgeous for that to be true.”

She covered her smile with her hand, and her gaze chased to the floor. “I have a very overprotective adoptive father. This is the first time he’s let me out on my own. And the other males in my realm just never held my interest.” Her shoulders lifted. “It always felt like finding someone was more for duty than love.”

“And you want love?”

Her head bounced up and down. “Silly, right? Who finds love on a dating show?”

“Well, Hitched does have a surprisingly good record.” My own words echoed across my mind on repeat.

“You think that’s real?”

Shit, I knew it was. Sometimes I wished it hadn’t been. I nodded slowly. “It can definitely be real if you’re open to it.”

“And are you open to it?” Her light eyes sparkled with interest, and damn, I felt like a total ass because I’d promised myself this was supposed to just be fun.

“I hope I will be,” I finally said after a weighty silence. Long after the words were out, I still wasn’t sure if I’d lied.

Gods, the date had been exhausting. Back in my room, I slumped down on the couch and propped up my feet on the coffee table. All that small talk and already I had a sore throat. I swirled the ice in the glass tumbler and swallowed a big gulp of whiskey.

Everly’s question still weighed heavily on my mind. Just because I was only here for fun didn’t mean all the women felt the same. The last thing I wanted was to hurt anyone. I resolved to be upfront and honest from now on. Just like Arista.

I couldn’t help the smile from forming as I remembered our conversation. Now, that girl had balls. Maybe I’d take her up on that offer of a good time in the Fifty Shades of Fae room when the endless dates became too grueling.

A quick knock on the door sent a rumble up my throat. Ugh. I was in no mood to deal with Sam and her schedule. I’d just survived the first date, I wasn’t ready to plan out the next.

I slid to the edge of the cushion and grumbled, “Who is it?”

“It’s a surprise…”

A familiar, sultry voice seeped through the cracks. Just the sound sent scorching heat racing below my belt. Damned succubus. I forced myself up and marched to the door. Opening it a crack, Vesla filled the entryway, shiny dark hair flowing over a silk white robe.

My gaze drifted down before I could stop it. Beneath the loose-fitting robe, a silky nightie hid nothing from the imagination. With nipples peaked against the soft material, my tiger let out an appreciative growl.

“What are you doing here?” I finally managed.

“Just coming through on my promise, tiger.” She slipped between the crack in the door and placed her palms on my chest, shoving me back inside.

She slammed the door shut with her foot as she walked me backward to the bed.

“Vesla…” I wasn’t even sure why I was contemplating denying her. Wasn’t this what I wanted? No strings attached fun?

“Let me take care of you for once, wildcat.” Vesla’s lips claimed mine as the back of my legs hit the footboard.

My eyes slid shut, and my hands closed around her hips, fingers digging into the satiny material.

10

FANGS?

Deacon

Gods damn, she felt so good. Vesla ground her hips into my thickening erection as she straddled me on the bed. My head screamed that this was a really bad idea but my other head, the one with all the blood rushing to it, said to shut the fuck up. No wonder Slade had all the females wrapped around his finger. This sort of power was just completely unfair.

Vesla’s tongue tangled with mine, drawing me into her mouth. She nibbled on my lower lip, sucking, teasing. Then her mouth moved lower to the curve of my jaw and down my neck. Her fingers latched onto my shirt collar and drew it up over my head.

“You are even sexier in person,” she purred as her hungry gaze raked over my chest, and the dark swirling tattoos along my upper arms. My eyes closed as she ran her tongue down my abs, the moist warmth driving me wild. Something sharp pricked my skin, and I jolted up. Vesla’s pale blue eyes latched onto me, momentarily distracting me from her fangs.

Fangs? Slade sure as shit didn’t have those.

She pursed her lips and dipped her head, but I stopped her before that tongue robbed me of all common sense. Framing her cheeks with my hands, I pressed my thumb to her lower lip and forced her mouth open. They were gone.

“Your teeth?”

Her cheeks rosied and she sat up, her center rubbing against my arousal. I barely suppressed a groan as she wiggled on top of me. “What?”

“I’ve never seen fangs like that on a succubus.”

“What fangs?” She shot me a wicked smirk, flashing blunt incisors.

“What are you?”

She shook her head, fingers trailing the hard planes of my torso. “You know I can’t tell. It’s part of the rules, Deacon.”

My brows knitted as I regarded her for a long moment. She was definitely a succubus; there was no way around that, but she was something else too. Vampire? Shifter? Off the top of my head, they were the first that came to mind. I supposed there were plenty of other demons out there with sharp teeth, but they wouldn’t change like that, would they? There were so many damned demons in the Underworld who could keep track of all their abilities? My churning thoughts were like ice water to the burning embers. I released Vesla and sat up.

“I guess playtime is over?” She cocked a mischievous brow.

“Yeah, sorry. My head’s all over the place. It’s getting late, and today’s been kind of overwhelming.”

“To be continued.” She leaned in and brushed her lips against mine. The kiss was soft, gentle even. What was this girl and what was she playing at?

Before I could get another word out, she scrambled off the bed and darted through the door. I huffed out a breath and ran my hand through my disheveled hair. I felt like a fly who’d narrowly escaped the sticky strands of a deadly spider’s web.

Now I just needed a cold shower. And some water.

I marched out of my bedroom and tiptoed across the bachelor wing to our private kitchen. Slade’s chamber was on the opposite side of mine, through a doorway I’d noticed the first day I’d arrived. He’d given me the grand tour before my date this morning. It was basically a mirror-image of my own bedroom including the sexy torture chamber. I wonder if he’s used it yet?

Of all the girls, Vesla would’ve definitely been the one to try it out with. A stupid smirk crossed my face. Yeah, I was so not cut out for this type of show. Slade would’ve had the naughty succubus bound with fuzzy pink handcuffs, swaying on a sex swing screaming his name.

I paused just outside the door that led down Slade’s hallway. For some reason, I wanted to talk to the demon, to get some clarity on the succubus and her fangs. Shaking off the thought, I continued down the hall toward the kitchen instead.

Grabbing a bottle of water from the fridge, I gulped down half of its contents in one swig. That sexy succubus had left me parched. I definitely needed some more information on how their powers worked. I’d have to grill Slade one of these days.

I tossed the empty plastic bottle into the recycle bin and turned back toward my room. The sound of light footsteps turned my attention in the opposite direction, to the archway that led to the bachelorettes’ wing. I poked my head around the corner and found a familiar face sitting on the steps.

Chance’s rainbow of dreaded hair was piled high atop her head. She held a book between her hands, and the hint of a smile curved the corners of her lips as she read.

Chance – One Hour Earlier

“I’m bored.” Aurelia was sprawled across the bed with her head propped on one hand. “It’s not fair we only get to hang out with the guys for like a minute during the date and that’s it.”

“I think some of the other girls are in the entertainment room watching a movie.” I hitched a thumb over my shoulder.

“It’s some boring human romcom I have zero interest in.” She scooted to the edge of the bed and popped up. “I’m going to go look for some fun. You want to come with?”

I cringed at the idea. It was bad enough I had to share a room with the girl that went down on Slade our first night here. All the other girls had shunned me just by association. I already had a hard enough time making female friends.

“Nah.” I picked up a book from the shelf and flipped through a few pages. “I think I’d rather just stay in and read.”

She shrugged. “Suit yourself.”

An hour later, I was all curled up in bed reading a delicious slow-burn romance and imagining myself wrapped up in the gorgeous mobster’s arms. That’s what I loved about reading, for a few hours I could escape and be anyone but me. In real life, I’d never go for the bad boy, but in my imagination, I was sexy, twenty pounds skinnier and wild in bed. I almost laughed out loud.

Dream on, Chance.

The door whipped open, and Aurelia stumbled in with Electra and Yzabella at her heels. They each held a bottle of something and were giggling like schoolgirls.

“Hey girl,” said Aurelia, a slight slur on her tongue, “I hope you don’t mind I brought the party back to our room. Some of the other girls were being total bitches.”

“Um, yeah, sure, no problem.”

Yzabella folded her long legs onto Aurelia’s bed and took a dainty sip from the silver bottle, her dark eyes scrutinizing. I lowered my gaze to the blur of words on the page. Electra plopped down on the end of my mattress and hiccupped. “Whatcha reading?” She snatched the book from my hand and crooned at the ripped cover model. “Ooh, swoon, he’s hot. Is it spicy?”

I nodded. “It starts out slow but yeah.”

“Is that why you didn’t want to come out with me?” Aurelia shot me a wicked smirk. “Are you getting yourself off with this sexy smut? You little vixen, I never would’ve expected it from you.”

“I’m not!” My cheeks flamed, and I had the most overpowering urge to hide under the covers.

“Relax, Chance. I’m just messing with you.” She grinned and shoved the half-empty bottle in my face. “Want a drink?”

“No, thanks. I already brushed my teeth.”

The girls laughed, and I wanted to dig a hole and crawl into it. Instead, I decided to run. I pushed the comforter back and slid off the mattress. “Excuse me, I have to use the bathroom.” Grabbing my book, I marched to the door that connected our room to Electra and Yzabella’s. There was one bathroom for four of us plus an additional communal one in the hallway that we all shared.

More laughter echoed behind me as I slammed the door shut. Ugh. I was never going to survive eight weeks of this. The only thing that kept me going was the reminder that once some of the girls were eliminated, we’d get our own rooms.

If I didn’t get eliminated on the first round, of course, which was a pretty big if. I couldn’t compete with these girls. I wasn’t even sure why I’d been chosen.

I crept out the opposite side of the bathroom, thanking all the gods the girls had left their door open and snuck out into the hallway through their adjoining bedroom. The corridor was quiet, a low murmur of voices coming from the entertainment room. I had zero desire to hang out with the other girls either. I just wanted to finish reading my book in peace and quiet.

Running my hand down the front of the My Little Pony pajamas my older brother had gifted me before I left, I crept toward the archway that led to the foyer atop the stairs. There shouldn’t be anyone out there at this hour.

I peeked through the doorway before venturing out. All clear. Tiptoeing, I darted to the steps and flopped down on the top one. Leaning against the iron banister, I cracked the book open and delved into the dark mafia romance.

“Hey there.” A male voice had me nearly jumping out of my skin a second later.

I spun around to find Deacon, shirtless, walking toward me. I’d been so engrossed in the book I hadn’t even heard him coming. “Oh, hi,” I finally said, dropping the book in my lap and crossing my arms over my chest to hide the ridiculously childish pink pony. Already, heat blossomed up my neck. I cursed myself internally for leaving the safety of the girls’ wing with my silly pajamas.

“Good book?” He tossed me a teasing smile as his emerald eyes raced over the cover.

Oh, so embarrassing.

“I just found it in the room… there was nothing else to read, so…” I cut myself off to put an end to my own misery.

He folded down beside me, his massive form barely fitting on the same step. “Why are you reading out here?”

“Aurelia, she’s my roommate, she brought some of the girls back to our room and they were kind of drunk and annoying. This was the first quiet place I found.”

“I see. Well, I don’t want to interrupt you then.” He began to rise, but I found my hand moving of its own accord. It latched onto Deacon’s thigh and held on tight.

“No,” I blurted. “You’re not interrupting at all. I wouldn’t mind the company.” I pried my fingers off his muscled leg and tucked it into my lap.

“So what’s the book about?” He eyed the half-naked guy on the cover.

“Just some mob boss who falls in love with the woman he’s holding prisoner.”

His light brows curved, nearly reaching his hairline. “Sounds romantic.”

“It’s better than it sounds, I swear.”

He chuckled. “Maybe I’ve been doing this dating stuff all wrong.” Grabbing my wrists, he pinned them together, eyes sparkling with mirth.

I couldn’t help the laugh that tumbled out. “I don’t think that would work in reality. Only in romance books.”

“Hey, this is reality TV, it’s pretty close to fiction.”

Something flashed across his eyes, sadness, regret? I couldn’t quite tell, but it squeezed the lightheartedness right out of the moment. “Why would you put yourself through this show again?” The question came out before I could stop it. “You seemed to really care for Aspen… Or was it all fake?”

Deacon’s lips smashed together, the tendon in his jaw pulsing. I nearly took the question back before the line of his jaw softened, and his mouth began to move. “It was definitely not fake,” he finally said. He exhaled a long breath before his eyes met mine once more. “I’ve been asking myself the same question. I guess the answer is two-fold. Firstly, the producer begged and offered me a shit-ton of money. Also, the guy is kind of a prick, and I reveled in the idea of knowing I had him by the balls for once. And secondly, I’d hoped meeting a bunch of beautiful women would help me get over her.”

I swallowed hard, hearing the truth out loud harder than I’d expected. “So you’re just looking for a rebound basically?”

His brows furrowed, the slight line between the short blonde hairs deepening. “I don’t know what I’m looking for, Chance. The truth is that if all I wanted was a rebound, I could’ve already had that in the short time I’ve been here.” The corner of his lip curled. “I’m not going to lie and tell you I’m ready to find love again, but the more I get to know you ladies the less far-fetched it seems.”

I nodded slowly. “I get it.”

We remained in a comfortable silence for a few more minutes, each occupied with our own thoughts. Then Deacon finally spoke again. “I’m going to leave you to your reading. I’m kind of exhausted from today’s date.” His gaze lingered on mine for a long moment. “I think this was my favorite part.” He reached for my hand and brushed a quick kiss on the top. “Goodnight, Chance, sweet dreams.”

Another wave of heat raced across my face, settling on my ears and an excited neigh burst from my lips. I clapped my hand over my mouth as embarrassment coated my cheeks in crimson. “Goodnight!” I finally forced out once I had my inner unipeg in control. I couldn’t help from watching him as he disappeared down the hallway.

I’d promised myself I wouldn’t get my hopes up, but it was only three days into this dating game and already, I was sure I was falling for Deacon.

Slade

Here I was trying to sneak over to the bachelorettes’ side and who do I find? The tiger stalking toward me, and shirtless, nonetheless.

“Where are you going at this time of night?” Deacon asked.

“Where are you coming from at this time of night?” I retorted, “And half naked, might I add?”

He hitched his thumb over his shoulder and pointed to the kitchen. “Just grabbing some water.”

Figures. “And where is it?”

“I already drank it. What are you the water police?”

I smirked. Was the tiger lying to me? Probably. Was I that interested where he was? Not really.

“So where are you going, Slade?”

“A few of the girls invited me over to their wing for a nightcap.”

His head cocked over his shoulder before turning back to face me. “Oh, really?”

“Yes, really. Care to join?”

“No, I’ve had enough for one night.” He dragged his hands over his face. “I don’t know if I can do this.”

“What do you mean?”

“Dating again, after Aspen…” His words fell away, and that hole in my chest I constantly tried to fill with meaningless sex gaped open.

“You just have to muddle through, tiger.” I gave him my best smile, but even I could tell he wasn’t buying it.

“Well, good luck muddling through. You seem to be getting the hang of it.”

My head dipped slowly, and I forced that smile to remain plastered on my face. He began to walk by me but turned back only a few steps away.

“Oh, question for you: would a succubus have pointy teeth?”

I shook my head, lips pursing. “Nope, definitely not, but damn wouldn’t that make things more exciting. Why do you ask?”

“Just curious.” His eyes narrowed and I knew there was more he wasn’t telling me, but I supposed I’d find out soon enough. “Have a good time with the girls, Slade. Don’t do anything I wouldn’t do.”

“Then what would be the fun in that?”

11

SPARKLING CHAMPAGNE AND POISON

Slade

“So how do I look, Dawn?”

“Great.” The pink-haired pixie fluttered around me, collecting styling supplies. It was a stupid assumption, but before I’d entered the competition, I’d always assumed the stylists were only for the females. But nope, the bachelors got the full treatment too. Apparently, the cameras drowned out my naturally tanned complexion, so I was forced to wear makeup.

Too bad I was fairly certain my stylist was not my biggest fan.

I could see it in the tight set of her lips, the half-smiles, the constant fidgeting when she was around me. Deacon, on the other hand, she loved. Every time I mentioned him, her silver eyes sparkled like he hung the freaking moon.

I rose from the styling chair and smoothed out my dark, button-down shirt. “Well, thanks for making me beautiful, Dawny.”

She wrinkled her pert little nose as I tried the nickname on for size. I didn’t know why the hell I cared, but the fact that she preferred Deacon over me drove me nuts. I tossed her a quick wave over my shoulder and marched toward the door.

In the hallway, I paused at the banister and peeked down the stairs. The circle of cameras stood at the ready. Well, here goes nothing. Ignoring the swell of nerves, I forced one foot in front of the other until I conquered the dreaded steps. The invasive eye of the camera followed my every move. You’d think I would’ve been used to it by now, but there was something totally different about it when you were the main attraction.

When I reached the main foyer, the front doors were open, and the giant hot air balloon blotted out the landscape beyond. The girls were already seated in the basket, sipping on bubbly champagne. I plastered on my typical Slade smirk and marched toward my harem for the day.

Crystal, Electra, Rose, Iris, Roxy, and Yzabella. I’d glanced over their portfolios this morning as Dawny prettied me up.

I stepped into the basket and Electra popped up, offering me a crystal flute. “Welcome to our date.” She smiled, and gods, my heart tripped on a beat. She looked so much like Aspen my stupid cock got hard.

“Thanks,” I muttered and slid onto the bench, crossing my legs and tenting my hands over my obvious arousal.

The girls all began to talk at once, each trying to speak over the other. It was kind of fun having all the attention until my gaze latched on the female at the end of the bench. Rose. Her arms were crossed over her chest, only accentuating the swell of her breasts over the tight tank top. But it wasn’t just her breasts that caught my attention, it was the twist of her lips and hard set of her jaw.

What the hell did I do to this female to earn her wrath?

Nothing. Abso-fucking-lutely nothing.

Unless you counted the fact that she’d caught me with Aurelia on her knees. But she’d made her dislike for me pretty clear well before that at the ball.

For the next hour as we floated across the deep blue skies, she ignored me, and every moment that passed only stoked the building irritation. No female ever ignored me. It wasn’t possible.

My powers surged to the surface, my fingers twitching as I watched her. I just wanted to shoot her with a little taste… Give her an inkling of what she was missing out on. I muttered a curse as angry emerald eyes filled my mind, and my promise to Deacon fluttered to the surface. Damned tiger. No powers.

“Another drink?” The sultry voice drew me from the dark thoughts, and I pivoted toward Crystal who sat in the bench across from mine, holding the bottle of champagne.

“Always.” I grinned and slid into the empty spot beside her. The woman was gorgeous with deep chocolate skin, high cheekbones, full pouty lips and long black hair slicked back into an elegant bun at the top of her head.

She cocked her head to the side, sensing my scrutiny. Her lips parted, and without even trying I already knew she’d experienced a hint of my powers. Despite my best efforts at keeping them in check, uncontrollable pheromones oozed from my pores. “So, tell me about life as a dark lord of the Underworld.”

An invisible hand fisted around my lungs, squeezing the air out. I spread my lips wider, hoping to hide the gut reaction with a fake smile. “It’s great,” I mustered. “Nothing like wrangling demons all day and well into the night.”

“I can’t imagine.” She eyed me with a guarded expression, one I could not decipher despite my gift of typically being able to read people.

“Have you ever been to the Underworld?”

Her head whipped back and forth, face paling. Was I imagining it, or did she look like she was about to puke all over my shoes?

“Are you all right?”

She jumped up and leaned over the railing as she spilled the liquid contents of her stomach. I jolted up, wrapping my arm around her middle afraid she’d throw herself right out of the balloon. With the gentle breeze, splashes of saliva and partially digested champagne splattered my face and shirt as I held her.

A few of the girls started to groan as Crystal continued to vomit.

“Oh gods, it smells bad.” Roxy held her nose, and the rest of the girls moved to the furthest side of the basket.

Only Rose stood and staggered over, holding a napkin and a bottle of water. Without a second look at me, she moved to Crystal’s side and wiped her face.

“Oh, sweet baby geezus, this is so embarrassing,” she groaned, clutching the railing.

“You’re totally fine,” Rose said and offered a reassuring smile. “Lots of people get airsick their first time flying.” She handed her the water, and Crystal took a small sip.

Her lips puckered, and she spewed again.

I’d never seen such a violet reaction to airsickness. I rubbed her back as she continued to heave, ignoring the daggers Rose shot from the corner of her eyes.

A few minutes later, Rose offered her the water once again. This time it stayed down.

“Thank you.” Crystal sank down onto the bench and leaned her head back, eyelids heavy.

“Better?” I asked.

“Mmm. If you don’t count the mortification.”

I took her hand and rubbed slow circles into her palm. Slowly, the tension released, and she let out a faint sigh. “If you’re not feeling up for another hour, I can tell the producers to cut the date short.”

Another groan rippled from the ladies across the way.

“No, I’ll be fine. I swear I’m not usually like this.” She clutched a heart-shaped locket at her throat, and I eyed the worn silver. It had nearly been rubbed completely smooth. Her lids slid closed, and her head fell against my shoulder.

A few seconds later, her breathing slowed, and lips parted. “Well, I’ve certainly never had that effect on a woman.”

“I bet.” Rose still stood on the other side of Crystal, arms crossed as she glared down at me. “If you want to go talk to the other ladies, I can stay here with her.” The venom in her tone forced my brows together in confusion.

“No, thank you,” I gritted out, instead of the question burning the tip of my tongue. What the fuck is your problem with me?

I waited for her to march off and join the others on the opposite end of the basket, but instead, she slumped down beside Crystal and pressed her palm to her forehead. “She’s burning up.”

With my free hand, I confirmed Rose’s diagnosis and heat seared into my palm. “That’s not airsickness.”

Rose shook her head. “No, definitely not.” She grabbed the crystal flute smudged with red lipstick and held it up. “Was this hers?”

I glanced from the crimson tint of her lips to the glass. “Looks like her shade.”

Rose lifted the flute to her nose and inhaled a deep breath. Her nostrils twitched.

“What?”

“The champagne doesn’t smell right.”

I snatched the glass from her hand and inhaled deeply. A sickly, sweet odor filled my nostrils. I eyed the other four girls, each sipping on the bubbly alcohol. “Put your drinks down,” I shouted. Four matching expressions of surprise met mine. “Don’t take another sip,” I said, calmer this time.

“Why?” Iris glanced up at me, pale green eyes pinched.

“I think Crystal was poisoned.”

Rose

I trailed behind Slade as he carried Crystal up to her bedroom after the brief visit with the healer. The woman confirmed she’d be fine, just needed to sleep off whatever it was she’d ingested. She’d taken her blood and promised to get back to us once the cause of her illness was confirmed.

Of course, the production team was nowhere to be found when we needed them. Slade claimed it was typical of the producers, that they wanted to let the drama play out. I insisted, nonetheless. One of the senior cameramen said he’d send word to Shep as soon as he became available—whatever that meant. I’d barely seen the producer since the start of the show.

“She’s in that one with Vesla.” I pointed to the door at the end of the hall when we reached the bachelorettes’ wing. The corridor was quiet, not a sound coming from the entertainment room.

Where was everyone? The women’s side was usually bustling with excited whispers, if not all out overwhelming chatter.

I darted in front of Slade and lifted my knuckle to the door. “Vesla, it’s me, Rose. Are you in there?” I knocked again, more forcefully this time. Still no answer.

“I could just take her back to my room.” Slade lifted a mischievous brow.

“No,” I snapped.

“Good gods, Rose, do you think I would really take advantage of a woman in this state? What the hell kind of monster do you think I am?”

I shrugged and slammed my fist into the door again. “I don’t know, Slade. I don’t know a damned thing about you.”

“Well, you should. You watched an entire season of me on television, precious.”

I rolled my eyes and scoffed. “You sure think a lot of yourself, don’t you? What makes you think I even watched the show?”

“Umm, because you practically admitted it when you insulted me the other night at the ball. And anyway, pretty much all of Azar did. It was the highest rated season of the show’s history. And you obviously have some sort of misconceived notions about me which I can only assume you gathered while watching the show. Why else would you despise me for no apparent reason?”

“I don’t despise you,” I hissed. “I don’t care enough about you to hate you.”

He shifted Crystal in his arms, darkness swallowing up his irises. He reached for the knob and twisted. The door popped open.

Damn it. Why didn’t I try that?

Shaking his head, he trudged into Crystal’s bedroom, and I raced in behind him. “Which one is her bed?”

I motioned to the one on the right beside the photo on the nightstand. Gently, he lowered her onto the mattress, then moved to her feet. I watched, eyes surely bugging out of my head, as he gingerly removed her strappy platforms before tucking her in.

Then he pulled up a chair beside the bed and slumped into it.

“What are you doing?” I demanded.

“What does it look like?” He stretched out and propped his now bare feet on the mattress. “I’m going to wait here until she wakes up.”

“You don’t have to do that.” I perched on the edge of the bed and narrowed my eyes at him.

“I know I don’t have to. I want to.”

“Well, I don’t feel comfortable with you staying in here by yourself with her.”

He rolled his eyes so hard the whites showed. “Listen precious, if I can be brutally honest, I don’t give a fuck what you do or don’t feel comfortable with. Crystal was possibly poisoned, and I’m not going anywhere until I’m sure she’s safe and find out what the hell happened.”

My head snapped back at his tone, but a tiny voice in the back of my head said I’d deserved the tongue lashing. I ignored the irritating voice and made myself as comfortable as one could get hanging off the edge of a full-size mattress with a tall female already splayed across the top and a pair of male feet only inches away. “Fine, then I’ll just stay too.”

“Fine,” he gritted out.

12

INCONCLUSIVE

Deacon

Shit, only three nights on this gods’ forsaken island and already someone’s been poisoned? I had to have a word with Shep as soon as our slimy director showed his face on set. This could not be happening again. I stomped toward the girls’ wing, irritation and a swell of fear mixing like a lethal cocktail. When I’d heard the news about Crystal at breakfast, I’d raced right back up the stairs, abandoning the fresh waffles the chef had made. I hadn’t had many interactions with the female, but I had to make sure she was okay and find out what the hell was going on.

Lifting my knuckles to the door, I inhaled a deep breath and steadied my nerves. The last thing I needed was my pissed-off tiger to emerge. I knocked gently, not wanting to wake her.

A long minute later, the shuffle of approaching footsteps stiffened my spine. I took a step back and waited. The door swung open, and a certain demon dark lord filled the entryway.

“Morning, tiger.” Slade shot me his typical smirk as he ran his hand through his wild hair, and my blood boiled.

“What the hell are you doing here?”

“Probably the same as you.” He opened the door wider and revealed a still-sleeping Crystal, along with another dark-haired female curled up at the foot of the bed. A blanket was tossed over her haphazardly.

I caught a glimpse of silky, raven locks and soft, porcelain skin. “Is that Rose?”

“It is.”

“You both slept here all night?”

“We did.”

“Can you stop answering me in two-word sentences and explain?”

“I could.” Another smirk, only wider this time.

“Don’t be a dick, Slade.” I shoved by him and eyed the two slumbering women. “What the hell happened?” I whisper-hissed.

“We don’t know, which is why I decided to stay the night and keep an eye on Crystal. But your precious Rose didn’t trust me alone with her.”

“My precious Rose?”

He let out a grunt. “Yes, you’re all she can talk about. After she completely ignored me for the first hour of our time together last night, she went on to detail every single one of your incredibly charming character traits.”

A smile parted my lips for the first time this morning. “Well, there are quite a few.”

Slade rolled his eyes. “There’s no mistaking it, she’s firmly #TeamDeacon. She made it more than abundantly clear.”

“At least one,” I muttered.

“Oh, stop it, you big pussy cat. All of these ladies are crazy about you. They’re only interested in me because of my huge di—dark lord title.”

“Ass,” I hissed through clenched teeth.

He chuckled and punched my shoulder. “Trust me, I’d much rather be in your shoes.”

“None of that matters right now. We need to find out what happened to Crystal and why.”

Slade pointed at a bandage across Crystal’s arm. “The healer took her blood last night. She said she’d have an answer by morning as to the cause of her sudden sickness.”

“Then let’s go see the healer.”

Slade glanced at the clock and groaned. “It’s not even eight yet.” He pointed at the chair in the corner. “I didn’t exactly get good sleep last night.”

“Fine, go take a nap, I’ll deal with this.” I turned toward the door, but Slade’s hand closed around my upper arm stopping me.

“No, no, no. I can’t let you take all the glory. I need some good guy points with these girls.”

“Or what? They’ll never let you in their skirts?” Now I was the one smirking.

“Touché, tiger.” He speared his fingers through his hair, driving down the tangled locks then he trudged over to the chair and slumped down.

My foot started tapping as he took his damned sweet time putting on his shoes. Rose must’ve heard the nervous drumming because she began to stir beneath the blanket. She blinked quickly then lifted her head, scanning the room. When her eyes met mine, she shot straight up. “Deacon?”

I crouched down beside the bed and pressed a finger to my lips. “Shh, get some sleep. I heard you guys had a rough night. Slade and I are going to check with the healer to see if she has any news on Crystal.”

“Okay, good. I’ll stay here with her until you get back.”

My fingers laced around her hand and squeezed. I might have imagined it, but I could’ve sworn her cheeks darkened into a pretty pink hue. Once I released her, she lay back down and pulled the covers over her shoulder. “Thanks for the blanket,” she whispered.

“Oh, that wasn’t me.” I ran my hand over the back of my neck and eyed the demon still busy with his shoes. How long does it take to put on a pair of slip-on loafers?

Slade still didn’t look up.

With a sigh, Rose curled under the blanket without another word.

Well, then. “Come on, slow poke. My beta’s toddler could’ve gotten her shoes on faster than you.”

He finally stood and marched toward the door without sparing Rose a second glance. What was up with those two? “Be back soon,” I whispered over my shoulder as I followed Slade out.

The walk to the healer’s room was a silent one. Not awkward per say, but just quiet. I wondered what was on the demon’s mind. Maybe I was thinking into it too much, and he was just tired. According to Slade, the woman lived in the staff quarters at the edge of the compound, a small two-story white building. This was my first visit over here, but likely not my last because I had a bone to pick with the producer.

We took the steps up to the second floor, and I quickened my pace. “That room on the end.” Slade pointed at the blue door straight ahead.

As we walked toward the end of the corridor, a bright pink door caught my eye. Every other room had the same dark blue, but this one was painted a brilliant fuchsia. My nostrils flared at the familiar scent of a certain pixie stylist. I was gripped by the weirdest urge to knock, to see what her room looked like. I clenched my hands at my sides and tossed the idea to the furthest corners of my mind. I had a healer to see and any sort of fraternization with the crew was strictly forbidden. Besides, I’d see Dawn soon enough. Someone needed to make me presentable for the camera.

I walked the last few steps to the healer’s door trying to convince myself it was just curiosity pulling me toward Dawn’s room. She was a friend and nothing more. Curiosity killed the cat, Deac. The old adage swam across my mind.

Slade’s fist against the door drew me from my completely inappropriate internal musings and back to the matter at hand. A moment later, an elderly woman popped her head out. “Yes?” She eyed Slade then me and closed the door another inch.

“You don’t remember me from last night?” Slade cocked a dark brow. Like he was so unforgettable. I barely suppressed an eye roll.

“Oh yes, of course. You brought the unconscious girl.” Her lips pressed together, and I noticed a slight tremble in the hand that clutched the knob.

“So what were the results of the blood test?” he barked.

“Inconclusive, I’m afraid.”

“Seriously?” I snapped. How does Shep find such useless staff? After my years freelancing for the SIA, I knew a witch or two who could’ve had an answer on the spot.

Slade pushed through the door, and the woman staggered back. “Are you lying to us?”

I barely caught hold of her hand before she tripped over her long dress and fell backward. “Slade,” I hissed.

Darkness flooded his irises, eclipsing the usual spark. “She’s lying. I can tell.”

I released the woman, and she darted further inside the room. The chamber was larger than I’d imagined with a full sitting room and a doorway leading to what I assumed was the bedroom. In the center of the sitting area, sat a worn iron cauldron filled with a dark crimson liquid. I marched closer and inhaled the scent. Definitely blood. Crystal’s. Mixed with something else.

Slade loomed over the healer, and a flash of citrine streaked through the dark abyss. “Why are you lying to us, witch?”

I’d never seen Slade like this. The demon was a lover not a fighter… how much had his new role as dark lord changed him? I darted between the two, slapping my arm across his chest. “Relax. I’ll handle the interrogation.”

Slade clucked his teeth. “If you recall, I’m quite good at it.”

Flashes of Aspen’s story at the hands of the dark lords in the Underworld bubbled to the surface. When Slade had found her, he’d brutally murdered them all. Okay so the incubus wasn’t all sultry sexiness, but I’d never seen this aggressive side of him in person before.

Releasing Slade, I turned to the healer. The woman cowered, a tremor racing across her hunched shoulders. “What’s your name?”

“Soraya.” Her voice trembled around the word.

“Soraya, can you please confirm to my friend that you are not lying to us?”

She slowly shook her head. “You need to talk to the producer, Mr. Sheppard. He told me to tell anyone that asked that the results were inconclusive.”

“But they weren’t?” I pressed.

“I never ran the tests. Sheppard wouldn’t allow it.”

A dark chuckle rumbled the air, and Slade slanted me a glare. “We’re four days in, and he’s already at it.”

Ignoring him, I returned my attention to the woman. “As a healer, after examining her, what do you think?”

Her thin lips scrunched into a tight line.

“I promise we won’t say anything to Sheppard. I’m just asking for your honest opinion.”

“Her lips smelled like poison,” she finally murmured. “Arnica weed would be my guess. It’s almost always fatal to supernaturals.”

My heart kicked at my ribs. “Fatal?”

Her head dipped quickly.

“But Crystal is very much alive,” said Slade. “I checked her pulse, her breathing, everything all night long.”

“I said fatal to supernaturals.”

Oh, shit. Slade and I exchanged a wary glance.

“Well, at least now we know Crystal wasn’t the intended target,” said Slade.

“And she’s human,” I muttered.

“Or a mix,” the woman offered. “Poisons work differently on hybrids.”

“Thank you for the information, Soraya. I promise we won’t tell Shep we heard the truth from you when we beat the shit out of him.”

A wicked grin curled the corner of Slade’s lip. “For once, we are in full agreement.”

“Well, you’ll have to wait, I’m afraid.” Soraya moved to the couch and folded onto the edge of a cushion. “I wanted to speak to him this morning about the girl, but Dax’s assistant, Sam, told me they were both off property until tomorrow.”

“Those two are always conveniently away from the island when shit hits the fan.” I loosed a frustrated breath and turned to Slade. “Guess we’re going to have to figure this out on our own.”

“Like always,” Slade grumbled.

“Can you do me a favor and give me her blood?”

Soraya’s lips pinched, and she fiddled with her fingers in her lap. “I probably shouldn’t.”

“I can easily get more from Crystal herself. I’d just rather not put her through another bloodletting if I can avoid it.”

She nodded. “Okay, but please don’t tell the producer. I really need this job.”

“Our lips are sealed,” said Slade, miming a zipper across that cocky smirk.

Once we’d gotten the vial of Crystal’s blood, I thanked the woman, and we headed out. I had one more stop to make before returning to the villa. “I’ll meet you back at Crystal’s room.”

Slade stopped in the hallway and lifted a skeptical brow. “Where are you going?”

“To see a friend who may be able to help us out.” I held up the vial of blood.

“Who?”

“I’d rather not say. I don’t want to get anyone in trouble.”

Slade rocked back on his heels. “So you’re going to leave me with a petulant Rose and a slumbering Crystal?”

“I think you can handle the girl for another hour if you spent all night with her. And I think you know which one I’m talking about.”

He snorted on a laugh. “You sure are asking a lot of me lately, Deacon.”

“I thought you wanted good-guy points, Slade.”

The incubus muttered a curse and turned on his heel. “Don’t dally.”

“Wouldn’t dream of it.”

As soon as Slade disappeared around the corner, I doubled-back to the bright pink door. Here goes nothing. I knocked quickly before I could talk myself out of it. An endless minute later, the door creaked open. Dawn stood in the crack, her translucent wings aflutter. Her pink hair was pulled up into a messy bun and instead of the usual perfectly put together stylist, I found the cute pixie in a loose sweatshirt that hung off her shoulder and cut-off jean shorts. My heart did this weird flutter thing.

I swallowed thickly and forced out a “Good morning.”

Her petite hand curled around my shirt collar, and she dragged me into her room. Damn, that was unexpected. She was strong for such a little thing. “What are you doing here?” she squealed once the door slammed behind me. “I could get in so much trouble for you being at my door. You could too!”

I raised my hands in surrender. “I’m sorry, but I need your help. I wouldn’t ask unless it was important.”

Her light brows furrowed as she regarded me, cute nose scrunching up. “What’s going on?”

“Did you hear about what happened to Crystal?”

She shook her head. “No. I was bingeing last season’s—never mind. I haven’t been out of my room since yesterday afternoon.”

The hint of a smile lifted the corner of my lip, but I shoved the amusement down and focused. “Well, we think she was poisoned on her date with Slade, but Shep’s too much of a coward to have it confirmed.” I pulled out the vial of blood. “I need this tested. Can you smuggle it out of here for me? I have a friend in the SIA.”

“Oh, Deacon, I don’t know if I can do that.” She paced a quick circle, her wings moving as fast as her feet. “If Sheppard finds out, he’ll kill me. Fire me for sure.”

My gaze landed on a notepad and paper on the coffee table. I grabbed it and scrawled out my friend’s info, then tossed it back on the table. “He won’t find out. I swear.” I closed my hands around her shoulders and forced her to stop.

She glanced up at me, silver irises sparkling.

“Besides, you kind of owe me.” I shot her a smile, stealing a move out of Slade’s playbook. “I was thinking about it the other day… You knew I wasn’t going to be the only bachelor that first day, and you didn’t say a word.”

Her lips twisted into a pout, and damn, it was cute on her. “I couldn’t. I wasn’t allowed. I felt horrible lying to you.”

A twinge of guilt pricked at my gut. I knew I was being a jerk to call her out on this, but I had to find out the truth about Crystal. “And I’ll completely forgive you, if you just do this one little thing for me.” I slipped the note into her palm.

She sucked in her lower lip and shook her head. “If you get me fired, I’ll never forgive you, Deacon.”

“You have nothing to worry about, I promise.” I wasn’t sure if it was the concern in her eyes, or if I’d just lost my shit all together, but I leaned in and pressed a kiss to her forehead. “Thank you,” I murmured against her soft skin. Before releasing her, I breathed in her sweet scent, and the honeyed fragrance of gardenias filled my nostrils.

As I pulled away, she stared up at me, two huge silver orbs glued to my lips. Her mouth parted as if to say something, but it froze that way, her tongue barely peeking out.

Shit. I shouldn’t have done that.

“Thanks,” I muttered again before darting out.

Like a big scaredy cat.

13

A DEMON RUN AROUND

Rose

Inconclusive. That made no sense at all. I knew more than a little about magic given my mixed-blooded heritage, and unless someone was actively trying to hide the type of poison used, any healer should’ve been able to distinguish the variety.

I chewed on my lower lip as I walked down the hall to Crystal’s room. After a night back in my own bed, my mind was clear again and none of what Deacon and Slade had said yesterday after their visit to the healer added up.

Which meant someone was lying.

I knocked on Crystal’s door and waited, glancing at my watch before trying again. It wasn’t that early. She should’ve been up by now. Besides, the producer was supposed to be back today, and Deacon had promised to go with Crystal to confront him. I planned on being there too.

A muttered growl seeped through the door an instant before it whipped open. Vesla stood in the doorway in a slinky nightie, her long, dark hair wild and eyes bloodshot. “What?” she barked.

I peeked around the door to make sure I had the right room. “Is Crystal here?”

She glanced back over her shoulder to the empty bed. “Doesn’t look like it.”

“Wait, you’re her roommate?”

Vesla nodded.

“Where were you the night she was poisoned?”

“Guess I passed out in the entertainment room.” She shrugged. “A few of the girls who didn’t go on the date with Slade had our own party. He was supposed to come meet up with us after, but he never showed.”

Because he spent the evening on a chair making sure Crystal survived the night. I was shocked. He’d given up a night of hooking up with drunken bachelorettes for Crystal? Maybe he had a thing for her. I didn’t care. It wasn’t my problem. Wiping the shock from my expression, I stepped back from the doorway. “Will you tell Crystal I was looking for her when you see her?”

“Yup, sure, no problem.”

I opened my mouth to thank her, but I got a door in my face instead. How rude… Guess I’d have to go find Deacon then. The idea of seeing him incited a mad flutter of butterfly wings. I spun around and marched toward the guys’ side, adamant to find out what was going on. As the eldest daughter of an alpha, I’d grown up into a leadership role. I’d always been taught to protect my people, and right now, these girls were my people. Regardless of the fact that some acted like they’d been brought up in a barn. I even felt protective over the males, well, one of them anyway.

Crossing the main foyer upstairs, I reached for the doorknob that led to the bachelors’ wing. The door swung open before my fingers closed around the handle. Slade filled the entryway, leaning against the doorjamb with an irritating smirk plastered on his lips. “I thought I heard someone out here.”

“Yup, you caught me.” I crossed my arms over my chest and scowled up at him. “Now, can you kindly remove yourself from my way so I can get through?”

“Why? Where are you going?”

“It’s none of your business.”

“Well, since only two of us live on this side of the villa and judging by the frown on your face it isn’t me you came to see, I’d guess you’re looking for Deacon.” The smug smile grew wider, and there was nothing I wanted more than to wipe it off his annoyingly handsome face.

“Yes, yes, okay, you’re quite the detective. I came to see Deacon, now will you move?” I tried to scramble past him, but his tall, slender physique hid a wall of sinewy muscle. “Slade…” I growled.

“He’s not in here, precious.” His chin dipped, eyes searing on my hands splayed across his chest.

What the hades? When had that happened?

I curled my hands into fists and tucked them at my sides. “Where is he then?”

“Downstairs, waiting to talk to Sheppard. I’m actually on my way to join him.”

My eyes widened. “Is Crystal with him?”

“Yup. She showed up about ten minutes before you did. Guess, little Ms. Go Getter beat you to him.” Dark eyes sparked in amusement.

I refused to be baited by this demon Casanova. Spinning on my heel, I marched toward the staircase. Quick footsteps trailed behind me, but I refused to engage. Instead, I kept my head down and practically darted down the steps.

“Be careful,” Slade called out. “We wouldn’t want you tripping in your mad rush to get away from me.”

I let out an exasperated huff but didn’t stop. When I reached the entrance foyer, I paused and focused on my heightened senses. The villa was enormous, and I had no idea where Deacon and Crystal could be.

Slade sauntered up beside me and rocked on the balls of his feet. Back and forth, back and forth. The squeak of his loafers distracted my concentration as I strained to hear. “Stop it!” I finally shrieked and whacked the demon in the gut.

I barely suppressed a wince as the back of my hand hit that damned muscled stomach again. Son of a demon!

“I know where they’re meeting if that would help.” He grinned down at me.

“Tell me!”

“You gotta ask nicely, precious.”

Frustration zipped through my veins. The last thing I wanted to do was humor this demon, but I couldn’t miss out on that meeting. Drawing in a steadying breath to calm my inner beast, I counted to ten. “Please tell me where they’re meeting the producer,” I gritted out.

“Please, dark lord Slade.”

A snarl lifted my upper lip. “Please, dark lord Slade.”

“See how easy that was?”

I muttered a curse as he smirked down at me. This male was infuriating. I was wasting precious minutes. “Well?”

“Follow me.” He turned past the staircase and led the way down the hall. I’d never been to this part of the villa before. After the laundry room and a giant pantry, came a library and another small office. He finally paused at the end of the hallway and jerked his chin at the closed door. “They’re in there.”

I moved closer and pressed my ear to the dark timber. Not my finest moment, but the curiosity was killing me. Nothing. Not a sound. Not even a person breathing.

Slade let out a deep chuckle, and heat spread up my neck and across my cheeks.

I whirled around, fuming. “What’s so funny?”

“I was just messing with you. They’re not in there. You think the producer would ever hold this meeting in the villa with all the cameras? He’s much more devious than that.”

“You as—” I bit back a curse and inhaled another deep breath. “So where are they?” I hissed.

He twirled around in a circle, that obnoxious smile still plastered on his face. “Out back of course.” Doubling back a few steps, he opened a door that led out to a side yard. A glass table and chairs sat around a fire pit. And there, I finally found Deacon.

With his hands wrapped around Sheppard’s neck.

Crystal screamed and Slade lunged, reaching the pair before I could process what was happening. “Hey, hey, relax, tiger.” The demon wrapped his arms around Deacon’s massive torso and pried him off the producer. “No fair! You were supposed to wait for me before the fun started.”

Sheppard tugged at his collar, loosening his tie as he coughed and spluttered. The producer looked nothing like the suave, put-together male I’d met a few weeks ago at auditions. His perfectly gelled salt-and-pepper hair was ruffled, and a twinge of fear darkened his expression. “That was your one pass, Deacon. Do you hear me? You try that shit again, and you’re off the show.”

“Fine by me,” he snarled. “I never wanted this anyway.”

“Uh, uh, uh.” Slade waggled his finger at Deacon, his other arm still clamped across his chest, holding him back. “That was definitely not the deal, my friend. There’s no way I’m doing this shit show without you.”

A twinge of disappointment streaked through my chest at their words. Neither of them really wanted to be here?

Deacon glared at the producer from over the demon’s shoulder. “The bastard is trying to cover it up, just like always.” He pointed at Crystal. “She could’ve died, and you’re not even willing to investigate, why?”

“But she didn’t,” he barked.

“She was lucky,” Slade added. “It could have been much worse, and I think you know that.”

Something unspoken passed between the three men.

“So you’re sticking with the inconclusive bullshit?” Deacon growled.

Sheppard ran his hand over his shirt, straightening out his crumpled tie. “Yes.”

“I’m not really familiar with all this magic stuff,” said Crystal. For a second, I’d forgotten she was here. “But I need answers. I’m not going to stay on a show if my life is in danger. The publicity isn’t that good.”

“Perfectly rational thinking,” said Slade, moving to her side.

“As I told you before,” Sheppard grumbled, “we are working on it. If any more information becomes available, you will be the first to know, but for now, it’s business as usual. It’s very likely you simply drank from a bad bottle of champagne.”

Deacon nearly choked on a laugh. “You’re incredible, Shep.”

He shrugged and jabbed his hands into his pockets.

“Where have you been anyway?” Slade asked. “You’ve been surprisingly MIA.”

“Conducting business which is none of your concern,” he hissed. “Now, if there’s nothing else, I have important matters to attend to and the two of you have dates to prepare for this evening.”

“Today?” Deacon cried.

“Yes, today. If I’m not mistaken, Sam should be dropping off envelopes to all the lucky ladies as we speak.”

“This is some bullshit…” Crystal murmured.

“If you’d like to take the day off, Crystal, that’s completely understandable. I’m sure Deacon would fully support your decision.”

That’s right. Methyss had said the next group date would be with the opposite bachelor. I’d finally get my first date with Deacon. A completely inappropriate smile parted my lips, given the situation.

Crystal stood and I moved beside her, squeezing in between her and Slade. “Come on, I’ll walk you back to your room.”

“Thanks.” She gave me a sweet smile. Then she looked over my shoulder at Deacon and Slade. “Thanks for looking out for me, both of you. I guess I’ll see how I’m feeling by tonight, Deacon.”

“Get some rest,” he answered. “We can always make up for the date another time.”

She nodded, and I ushered her back into the villa. The guys remained behind, whispering, but despite my best efforts, I couldn’t make out what they were saying.

Slade

As soon as Shep slunk away like the vile vermin he was, Deacon whirled on me. “What are we going to do?”

“I don’t think there’s much we can do right now. You said you had someone working on the poison, right?”

He nodded.

“Until we know what it is, we have no idea who the intended target was. Hell, even when we do find out, it’ll be unlikely it’ll magically give us all the answers.” My thoughts swirled back to the balloon ride and the contestants. Five girls and me. Electra, Rose, Iris, Roxy, and Yzabella, all possibilities, if Crystal wasn’t the intended target. No way Rose had any enemies, she was too fucking perfect. “Electra, Iris, Roxy or Yzabella,” I said out loud.

“Yeah, or you, of course.” We must have both been thinking the same thing. “How many dark lords have you pissed off in your short tenure?”

“A lot.” I grinned. A tiny hint of guilt crept in. What if Crystal had been poisoned because of me?

“Without knowing anything about the other girls, you’re right, it’s going to be hard as hell to figure this out.” Deacon released a frustrated breath.

“So I guess we’ll just have to learn more about the girls.” I shot him a mischievous smirk. “Every single little dirty detail.”

He shook his head and rolled his eyes so far all I saw was white. “It’s a good thing I have all six girls on my next date. I can see what I can get out of them.”

“Lucky you. Rose must be peeing herself from the excitement.”

“Shut up,” he grumbled and shoved past me.

“No, I’m really happy for you guys. She’s like legitimately obsessed with you. I bet you could take her into the hot sex dungeon and have your way with her.”

“Slade…” he growled.

“Don’t tell me you haven’t thought about it.” It’s all I’ve thought about since my arrival. One of these gorgeous women strapped to the wall, helpless to my whim, writhing, squirming… Their excitement just waiting to be consumed…

He ignored me and opened the back door to the villa. “I think it’s a little early to be bringing anyone into that room.” He paused, his light brow lifting. “Wait a second. Have you?”

I pressed my lips into a tight line. “I’m not the type of demon who fucks and tells.”

A chuckle vibrated Deacon’s barrel chest. “You’re a real bastard, you know?”

“That’s what they tell me.” I shrugged and followed him back into the house.

When we reached the sprawling foyer, a grinning Methyss was waiting. In that dramatic white tux and top hat, he looked like he was ready for the pimp circus. “There you are gentlemen; I’ve been looking all over for you. It’s time for the next date…”

14

A SEXY SCAVENGER HUNT

Deacon

“Are you sure you’re up for this?” I walked beside Crystal as Methyss ushered us to the lawn in front of the villa.

“Yeah, I’m cool.” She smiled, but it didn’t quite reach her eyes. Weariness crinkled the corners, and a slight tick in her jaw gave away the tension.

I grabbed her hand and slowed my pace, so the rest of the girls were a few yards in front of us. “Listen, I promise to find out what’s going on. I’m ninety-nine percent sure you weren’t the intended target of the poison. I’m not sure if that makes things better or worse, but I swear I’ll find out the truth.”

“How are you so sure?”

I gritted my teeth as I debated telling her the truth. The poison would’ve been lethal to a supernatural, not to a human. Since Crystal had survived, she had to be human or at least half-human. “Because you’re not dead,” I finally murmured.

Her eyes widened, and she squirmed free of my hold. “What does that mean?”

“The poison was meant to kill a supernatural, not a human.” I blew out a breath. “Unless whoever did it thought you were one…” I raked my hands over my face. “It just seems like if someone went through all the trouble, they would’ve done their homework.”

She swallowed thickly, the long column of her throat bobbing. “So who do you think was the target?”

“I don’t know yet, but I will soon. I promise to keep an eye on you today, so don’t be nervous. You’re safe with me.”

“Me, please?” She tossed me a smirk. “My human ass grew up in Brooklyn. I know how to handle myself.”

“Good.” I chuckled and ushered her toward the rest of the girls. As we neared, I couldn’t help but mull over the fact that she’d admitted to being human. Growing up in Marlwoods, I’d never spent much time with them let alone been with a human female before. Since the discovery of the supernatural world, few humans actually migrated to Azar. Sure, they’d show up now and again, but we were still so vastly different. They were so much weaker, so easily breakable. And yet, nothing about Crystal’s character struck me as such.

Once we reached the girls, I tossed the random musings aside. Something to deal with later. Electra, Rose, Iris, Roxy, and Yzabella stood in a semi-circle around Methyss. Rose’s eyes met mine, and her cheeks rosied as I approached. Was Slade right? Could this gorgeous woman really be crushing on me? Gods damned, was I lucky.

Shaking out the silly thoughts, I slipped into the circle to join the others. The extravagant emcee’s eyes sparkled, and he took out his invisible microphone, holding it to his lips. “Today’s date extravaganza will be a battle of wits.” A few groans echoed in the air. “You six ladies will endure a scavenger hunt across the property and the first one to collect all the items, will win a solo date with our handsome bachelor.” Methyss clapped wildly as he bounced up and down.

This date actually sounded like fun. “What do I do?”

Our host handed me a slip of paper. “You are the eye candy.”

“Seriously?” I growled.

“Meet the ladies at each of the sites listed where you’ll be able to gift them your encouraging words.”

Of course, I didn’t get to actually enjoy the hunt. So lame. “Fine,” I grumbled.

Methyss snapped his fingers, and six rolled up parchments appeared in his hand. “Ladies, one for each. Wait until I say to open them.” He handed them out and was met with a variety of expressions from mild indifference to outright annoyance. “Follow the clues to the three objects, and your final destination will be into the arms of this handsome male.”

Now my damned cheeks were burning.

“Totally in the bag,” said Rose.

Crystal nudged her in the ribs. “Get in line sister, I’ve never lost a single competition in my life.”

The girls laughed, and the irritation of missing out on the fun began to dissipate. I guess it would be kind of entertaining to watch them run around the property.

Roxy and Iris began whispering as they eyed the parchments rolled up in their hands, and Electra shot them a narrowed glare. “Hey, you two can’t work together. That’s cheating.”

Methyss shrugged. “It’s hard to cheat when there are no rules.”

“Whatever.” Electra glanced at her own roll of yellowing paper. “So can we start?”

Our host waved his palm, and a timer appeared overhead. The number sixty blinked in bright flashy neon lights. “You have sixty minutes to complete the scavenger hunt. If no one finishes, the one with the most items in the fastest time wins. Any questions?”

“No,” all the girls called out in unison.

“Then you may begin!”

The bachelorettes unrolled the parchments and excitement thrummed in the air. As they read through the clues, I tried to imagine a one-on-one date with each of these females. Who did I want to win?

I’d already formed somewhat of a connection with both Crystal and Rose given the circumstances, so the fair thing to do would be to take the time to get to know one of the other girls. I’d danced with Electra quite a bit the night of the fantasy ball, but was it only her looks that had attracted me? She looked so much like Aspen it was freaky.

I hadn’t had many interactions with the sisters, Roxy or Iris, and Yzabella mostly kept to herself. Plus, if I wanted to keep my word to Crystal, I should scope out the other ladies, or possible suspects.

As I watched the girls run off in different directions, my gaze trailed behind Rose. I wanted her to win. The unexpected revelation surprised me.

Dammit, Slade had totally gotten into my head about her.

A firm grip on my shoulder drew me from my thoughts, and I came face to face with a grinning Methyss. “You better hurry up to the first location. Those females seem to be taking the competition very seriously.”

“Right.” I nodded and jogged across the lawn and back into the villa.

According to the slip of paper Methyss had handed me, the first clue would send the females to my bedroom. I wasn’t sure I wanted to know what they had to find in there. I slipped up the stairs, nearly running into Roxy and Iris who were searching the first floor.

I wondered what exactly their clue read.

When I reached the second floor, Electra was right on my heels. I darted through the archway that led to the bachelors’ wing and raced to my bedroom. Damn, Methyss should’ve given me a head start. He was right, these girls were on it.

Once I reached my chamber, I slumped down on the bed and released a breath. The bedroom door whipped open seconds later, and Electra and Crystal stood in the entryway.

“Do you have the fuzzy handcuffs?” Crystal asked.

“What?” I blurted. Heat clamored up my neck and diffused across my face.

She handed me the parchment, and there it was: a picture of bright pink fuzzy handcuffs. And I knew exactly where they had to be, in the hot sex dungeon as Slade called it.

Apparently, I wasn’t the only one. Electra darted straight for the bookshelf and started pulling books off. When she reached Fifty Shades of Fae, the hidden door was revealed. Shit. There was only one way she could’ve known about the red room. She’d been inside before… And she hadn’t been in mine.

Crystal and I eyed her as the crimson light flooded the dim chamber. She raced inside and dug around a big wooden chest. “Found one!” She waved the furry thing in the air triumphantly.

Crystal stared into the room, her eyes growing wider by the second. “Holy shit,” she murmured.

That damned heat flooded my cheeks again. “Yeah…”

“Wait, how did you know this was here?” She whipped her curious gaze on Electra.

“Slade gave me the grand tour. Guess both bedrooms have the same layout.”

Before I could get a word out, she whirled around and darted from the chamber. Crystal watched me, mouth curved into a capital O.

“Um, I obviously had nothing to do with this. It was here when I moved in.”

She laughed, the sharp sound a few octaves higher than her normal tone. “No judgement here, big guy.” She inched closer, and her breath ran over the shell of my ear. “But just so that we’re clear, I like to be the boss in the bedroom.”

Another swell of heat raced below my belt buckle, and I shifted uncomfortably. “Good to know,” I mumbled.

She spun on her heel and rifled through the chest until she found another set of handcuffs. “See you at the finish line,” she called out over her shoulder as she raced out.

Yup, this solo date sure was going to be interesting…

Rose

“You’ll never catch me!” Crystal dashed by, her long legs eating up the lengthy hallway. So much for being poisoned. A pink backpack bounced on her slim shoulders as she ran by. Electra came next, nearly trampling over me instead of going around as Crystal had.

There at the end of the hallway of the staff quarters was a huge ice bucket filled with sparkling faery wine. The item clue had been easy enough, but the location had been a bit trickier. I’d never been to this part of the property.

I slid to the floor and grabbed the bottle then noticed the handy dandy backpacks piled on the side. I shoved the other items I’d collected inside and threw it over my shoulder. I was back on my feet and running in no time.

Over the banister, I could just make out Crystal and Electra racing across the front lawn. Oh, snike’s! At least Iris and Roxy were nowhere to be found. I hadn’t seen them since the first clue in Deacon’s sex room. A silly grin stretched my lips as his image came to mind. I’d never seen him look so uncomfortable. It was sweet.

Tossing the thoughts aside, I focused on the other contestants. Damn it! I was so behind. How was this possible? Those two were always one step ahead of me. I hiked my backpack higher up on my shoulder and stared at the last clue on the parchment. I had all three objects now: the handcuffs, the terrycloth robe from the spa and the faery wine. Now I just needed to find Deacon. I stared at the last clue, praying to all the gods for the answer to come to me.

To win the handsome bachelor’s hand,

You must be willing to brave beyond land.

To traverse the waters blue,

Find the vehicle that calls to you.

Once on the isle you will discover,

The man of your dreams and future lover.

I’d never been down to the beach yet. That must be it! I spun around to the sprawling Manta Sea and sprinted down the steps of the staff quarters. The run across the sprawling driveway felt like a lifetime. When I finally made it around to the back of the villa, I almost cried from happiness. Finding the wooden stairs that led to the white sandy beaches, I took the steps two at a time. Below, I could just make out Crystal and Electra racing across the sand.

Go! Go! Go!

The roar of engines tore my attention to the shore where six jet skis were lined up. Crystal was already on one, and Electra sprinted toward another. I nearly faceplanted when I hit the sand, my sandal getting caught on the last step. Dammit! Righting myself, I dashed across the sand to the remaining wave runners.

Ripping off my backpack, I reached for the vest and speared my arms through it. Come on, come on. Securing my pack over the life vest, I leapt on and started the engine. A small island a few hundred yards away caught my eye as the waves lapped over my feet. That must be it.

Shoot, I was never going to make it. Both Crystal and Electra were way too far ahead.

Never give up, little treasure. My dad’s voice echoed through my mind, and I drew in a steadying breath. I could do this. I throttled the hand grip, and the jet ski lurched forward.

I’m coming for you, Deacon.

15

A WIN AND A LIE

Deacon

Excitement rushed my veins as I stood on the shore and watched the girls on jet skis racing toward me. Crystal was in the lead with Electra on her heels, but Rose was gaining on them both. Come on, Rose. The errant thought raced through my mind. It was so early in the game, I should not be picking favorites already. And damn you, Deacon, you weren’t supposed to get attached. That annoying voice in the back of my mind snarled at me.

My feet propelled me forward, the warm water of the Manta Sea rushing over my toes. Crystal was so close, I could see the determination in the set of her jaw. I’d almost prefer it to be her over Electra. Looking at the blonde was like staring right into Aspen’s face, and the feelings still there were too raw.

A flicker of bright orange caught my eye, and my heart rammed itself up my throat. A spark lit up the front of Crystal’s jet ski. In seconds, flames crawled across the speeding vehicle. The engine sputtered out, and dark smoke billowed in the air.

Oh, shit. “Jump, Crystal!” I shouted.

Electra was only a few yards behind her and when Crystal’s engine cut out, she swerved, barely avoiding a crash.

Crystal leapt off the jet ski and swam toward the shore as I raced into the water. Before I even made it close to reaching her, Rose darted through the waves and pulled up beside a soaked Crystal.

“Come on, I got you.” She hauled her out of the water and onto the wave runner. Rose ticked her head at me and gunned it the final yards back to shore.

A waterlogged Crystal clung onto her waist until they were back on the white sand.

“Are you all right?” I finally reached the girls, my heart thundering against my ribcage.

“Yeah, I’m fine.” Crystal wrung out her hair and heaved in a breath.

“What happened?” I barked just as Electra reached the shore and jogged up the beach.

“I don’t know. It was so weird, the engine just caught on fire.”

I eyed the bobbing vehicle, flames surrounding it. Shit. Could I have been wrong? What if Crystal really was the target?

“I’m so sorry you were almost hurt again,” said Rose, drawing my attention from my dismal thoughts. She weaved her arm around Crystal’s shoulders and pulled her into a hug. “I’m so, so sorry.” Rose was pale, lips pinched as if she’d been the one that had nearly been roasted.

“Damn, what happened?” Electra asked when she finally reached us, her backpack bouncing on her shoulders.

“No idea,” Crystal muttered, “But I’m starting to think maybe I don’t belong here.”

“No, don’t say that,” said Rose. “It was just an accident.”

“I don’t know…” I growled. “Crystal has been attacked twice now.”

“Attacked?” Rose shook her head. “Engines malfunction… it was probably just a fluke.”

The rumble of approaching jet skis lifted my gaze to the sea. Iris and Roxy zipped toward us, weaving around the burning wreckage.

I stared at the flames. “If someone tampered with the engine, it’ll be impossible to tell now.”

Iris and Roxy raced up the beach, both with backpacks in hand. “What the heck did we miss?” asked Iris.

“Oh, you know, my engine decided to spontaneously combust.” Crystal huffed out a breath.

“Or someone tried to kill you again,” said Electra with a nonchalant shrug. So much for keeping the attempt on her life a secret. “What? Word travels fast around here. Twelve girls in one house… did you really think the whole poisoning thing was going to go unnoticed?”

“Does everyone know?” I asked.

Electra nodded. “Pretty much. Besides, we’ve all seen the show. Weird shit always happens.”

Wasn’t that the fucking truth?

A puff of white smoke materialized in the middle of our circle, and my tiger nearly leapt out of my skin until the form coalesced into a familiar figure.

Methyss stood before us, his white tux gleaming beneath the bright morning sun. “Now that was an exciting date, am I right?” He clapped his hands, bouncing on his toes.

I pointed at the burning jet ski. “You did see that?”

He swiveled his head over his shoulder and scowled. “Hmm, a pity.”

“Pity? I almost got cooked,” Crystal shouted.

“But you didn’t, right?” He smirked and fiddled with a non-existent hangnail. “I apologize for the unfortunate mishap.”

“Mishap?” Crystal screeched. “That was way more than a little freaking mishap.”

“You were in the water, were you not? They doused the majority of the flames. You seem perfectly fine.”

“Methyss,” I growled.

“Yes, yes, of course the production team will be looking into the accident.”

Turning, he patted Rose on the shoulder. “Congratulations, Ms. Rose, you’ve won the solo date with our handsome bachelor.”

“Thanks.” She smiled, but it didn’t quite reach her eyes. I forced my own lips to part, but I was sure my expression matched hers. None of this felt right.

Rose

“Why are you so nervous?” Harper eyed me as I paced the length of our room. “I thought you’d be thrilled about a date with Deacon.”

“I am,” I muttered and dragged my hand through my hair. Or at least I would’ve been if I didn’t feel so damned guilty. I’d almost really hurt Crystal today. I bit my tongue to keep the truth from spilling out.

“Then what’s wrong?” she asked.

“I’m just worried about Crystal.” Lie. Kind of.

“I know. I can’t believe she was targeted twice.” Harper shook her head, then rested her chin in her palms. She was stretched out across her bed already in pjs. I’d wanted this date with Deacon so badly I’d been reckless. Now, I just wished I could take it all back. Crystal deserved that date with him, not me. Heck, even Electra deserved it more than I did. Using our powers was strictly forbidden in this round. If anyone had discovered what I’d done I’d be out of here.

My parents would be mortified. And I would’ve ruined my chances at finding the one.

I’m such an idiot.

I should just go tell the producer the truth and let Crystal have the date with Deacon. Yes, that’s what I’d do. I whirled toward the door and shouted over my shoulder, “There’s something I have to do. I’ll be back.”

“Where are you going? Your date with Deacon is in less than half an hour!” Harper cried out behind me, but I ignored her and slammed the door.

I darted out into the hallway and raced down the stairs. At least now after the scavenger hunt, I knew where the production team lived. How hard could it be to find Sheppard and tell him the truth? I’d beg him not to boot me off the show, and maybe he wouldn’t, given his past with my parents. Maybe…

I just knew I couldn’t live with what I’d done.

I yanked the front door open and smacked into a hard body. “Oof,” I mumbled as all the air withdrew from my lungs. I glanced up and met a pair of smirking, dark irises. “Ugh, not you,” I groaned.

“Damn, precious, what is your issue with me?” Slade scowled down at me, and for a second, I felt guilty. Here I was judging the demon for using his powers on the defenseless bachelorettes when I’d been no better.

I lowered my gaze and met a naked torso and rippling abs. My eyes widened as I took him in, my jaw slightly unhinging at the sight. Sure, I’d seen Slade shirtless countless times on TV, but in person, it was just different.

Forcing my eyes away from his godly perfection, I found his gaze and a knowing look in his eye. Dammit, he’d totally caught me ogling him. Like he needed his head to grow any bigger.

“I don’t have an issue with you,” I finally growled. “I don’t care about you at all.”

“Could’ve fooled me.” He planted his hands on his hips. “About the issue. Not about caring, obviously.”

“Obviously.” And still I remained rooted to the spot.

“Where are you off to in such a huff?”

“I need to see Sheppard about my date.” I clapped my hand over my mouth the second the words were out. Why had I told him that?

“With Deacon?”

I spun around and darted down the steps. Slade trailed behind me, catching my arm before I got far.

“What about it?” He glared down at me, and for a second, I saw it. Behind that cocky demeanor, he actually cared about Deacon.

“None of your business,” I murmured and tried to break free of his grasp, but he was deceptively strong.

“Look, precious, I can handle you fucking around with me, but don’t hurt Deacon. He’s been through enough.”

His words were like a vice grip around my lungs. Tightening, squeezing, until tears burned my eyes. “I’m trying to do the right thing,” I rasped out. “That’s why I need to find Sheppard and tell him the truth about the scavenger hunt.”

“Good,” he whispered, and his fingers unentangled from my arm.

“And for the record,” I added because apparently, I had diarrhea of the mouth around the slutty incubus, “I really like Deacon, and I’d never hurt him.”

“Then we’re in perfect agreement.”

“You two in agreement about something?” Deacon’s voice had ice spilling through my veins. How had I been so consumed in our conversation I hadn’t even heard him coming? He filled the doorway of the villa, curious gaze darting between us. Damned super sensitive shifter hearing. He wore dark jeans and a white button-down shirt, his hair neatly gelled back. I couldn’t help but compare him to the wild shirtless demon beside him.

“Yes, we were just discussing your date this evening,” Slade supplied, reminding me I hadn’t answered his question. “Rose has assured me she has something very special planned.”

I do?

“She does?” Deacon echoed my internal thoughts.

“But I didn’t get to talk to—”

Slade shushed me. He actually shushed me like some disobedient child. “Now hurry along you two and enjoy your date.” He shot me a narrowed glare as Deacon offered his arm, his gaze diverted from the dark lord’s. “I’m watching you,” he mouthed, and goose bumps cascaded across my arms. “Don’t disappoint him.”

I whirled around to face the villa and stepped into Deacon’s side. Indecision warred in my gut. I should go see Sheppard; I should confess.

“Anything wrong?” Deacon glanced down at me from the corner of his eye.

Shnike’s. “Um, nope. Maybe just a little nervous.”

“Me too.” He smiled, and all sense of right and wrong just vanished.

I only hoped the production team had planned something special for our date. The last thing I needed was to incur the demon dark lord’s wrath.

As I followed him up the steps, I couldn’t shake the flare of guilt for what happened earlier. I’d have to find a way to make it up to Crystal somehow. Once I saw Deacon all dressed up and ready for our date, I just didn’t have it in me to confess. Gods, I was a terrible person. Mom had been right. I had no idea what I was getting into when I auditioned for Hitched.

16

A MIDNIGHT SWIM

Deacon

“I can’t believe the producers planned such a normal date.” I sat across the white linen table with my toes in the sand as Rose gazed at the setting sun over the tranquil waves of the Manta Sea.

“Maybe they thought we deserved a break after the jet ski incident this morning.” She took a sip of the Fae wine she’d snagged from the scavenger hunt. Though she smiled, I could tell there was something bothering her. In the short time I’d spent with Rose, she’d always been much more talkative. Something was weighing on her, and I wished I knew what.

“Maybe,” I finally said. “How’s your salad?” She hadn’t touched it. She just slid her fork around the plate, rearranging the exotic vegetables.

“Good.” She gulped down another long pull from the crystal flute.

“You better be careful with that stuff. It’s pretty potent.”

Her golden eyes finally sparkled, brightening the expression on her face. “Oh, I know! When I was in college, I had my first taste and spent the night dancing on top of a bar back home. Apparently, I tried to strip too, but my younger brother found me and carted me away. I was so embarrassed.” A chuckle slid past her lips. “I swear I’m not that out of control anymore.” Her cheeks burn an enticing crimson. “And I’ve gotten much better at holding my alcohol since then.”

“Glad to hear it.” I lifted my glass to hers, and the sharp clink rang out over the rush of the crashing waves on the shore. “This is actually kind of nice. Just a quiet dinner to get to know each other.”

She nodded. “Yup.”

“I feel like I’m at an unfair disadvantage. All of you ladies know so much about me, and I don’t know anything about you.”

“A little mystery is good though, right?” She smiled, but that heaviness in her gaze was back again.

“Sure, but the way this show tends to play out, secrets never end up being a good thing.” Her smile fell, twisting into a frown, but damn that pout was cute on her. I reached across the table, and I felt like a teenager on a first date as my hand found hers. “If there’s something bothering you, you can tell me. You know that, right?”

Tears welled in her eyes, and she drew in her pouty lower lip. Oh, shit. What was going on? She eyed the sky then leaned in close. “I did something I’m not proud of, Deacon.”

I glanced up tracing the darkening skies for the familiar hum of the drone. They must have been hidden. No way they’d miss out on our solo date. I inched closer and tapped my ear.

“I used my powers this morning,” she whispered. “And something terrible happened. I never meant to hurt Crystal. I just wanted to beat her. I wanted this date so badly.” Her words fell away, and I gritted my teeth together to keep my jaw from dropping. “It’s pathetic and horrible, I know.”

“The fire?” I eyed the female across from me, those innocent golden orbs and the tight pinch of her pink lips. No way…

Her head bobbed up and down. “I feel terrible, and I’m so embarrassed.” She buried her face in her hands and sat back. “When you caught me with Slade earlier, I was on my way to tell Sheppard the truth. I shouldn’t be the one on this date. It should be Crystal. I cheated.”

Now that the shock waned, I was actually kind of flattered. Realms, what was wrong with me? This beautiful woman had resorted to cheating to win this date with me. The hint of a smile crept across my face.

“What’s so funny?” she hissed.

I shook my head, forcing away the grin. “I guess I’m a little flattered. This is going to sound pretty stupid, but after having my heart broken on live television, I could use the ego boost.”

A laugh brought back the flicker of light in her eyes. “You’re not mad? Horrified?”

My fingers tightened around her hand. “I don’t condone cheating, but you seem to be punishing yourself enough for both of us. I don’t think anyone that did something to intentionally hurt another contestant would’ve felt so guilty, let alone tried to confess to the crime.”

Her fingers weaved through mine, and I reveled in their warmth. I liked her. Despite the cheating. Maybe it was just that she liked me and I needed that after the crushing pain of losing Aspen, or maybe it was something else entirely.

“I should still tell Sheppard the truth,” she finally whispered.

“No.” I shook my head as a hint of fear rose. What if she got kicked off the show? I wasn’t ready for her to leave yet. I’d only just met her, and I wanted to know more. “You can’t tell him. You can’t tell anyone, Rose. You know how the producers are.”

“It just doesn’t feel right,” she murmured, her eyes on our intertwined hands.

“Just swear to me you won’t do it again.”

Her anxious gaze lifted to mine, and the deep gold glinted. “You’d take my word?”

“I would. I’m usually a pretty decent judge of character. And we’ve all done some pretty stupid things for love—or the chance at it anyway.” Heat burned my cheeks. Damn it, did I just insinuate she was in love with me? What the hell, Deac?

Her face rosied into a scarlet hue probably matching my own. “I really appreciate how understanding you’re being with this whole thing.”

“Everyone deserves a second chance.” Releasing her hand, I lifted my glass and downed the contents. “Now with that out of the way, romantic walk on the beach?”

A heart-stopping smile flashed across her face, and she nodded quickly. “I would love that.”

Rose

As we walked along the shore, I couldn’t help but think about my parents. My dad had almost gotten kicked off the show all those years ago for using his powers to save my mom. At least his motives had been genuine and pure, I’d done it out of spite and pettiness.

I resolved to be honest from now on. “Thanks for forgiving me.” I glanced up at Deacon as we strolled hand in hand.

“You’re kind of cute. It was hard not to.” He stopped and turned to me, and my eyes locked on his lips.

I’d imagined kissing him about a hundred times already. Since the day I’d discovered I’d made it on the show, he’d starred in my daydreams. I rose to my tiptoes and slowly brushed my lips over his. I half expected him to bolt. Forgiving me for my treachery was one thing, but kissing me?

His soft lips danced over mine, and as I readied to pull away, his arm snaked around my waist, firmly securing me in place. A growl vibrated his thick chest, reverberating through my own. He smiled against my mouth before pulling back. “My tiger gets a little overzealous sometimes.”

I laughed, pressing my palms to his chest. “I can’t wait to meet him one day.”

“Really? Most women are scared.”

“I know my way around big beasts.”

The faint line between his brows deepened, and I wondered if he had any guesses as to my true species. Setting random fires was not the norm for my kind. He must have thought I was a faery or an elemental magic user of some sort.

“I can’t wait for the big supernatural reveal,” he said, as if he’d read my thoughts.

“Me too. I’m really not good at keeping secrets. Obviously.”

“I’m glad you told me yours.” His hand lifted to my cheek, and he rubbed his rough thumb over my skin. “I think honesty is important in a relationship.”

I nodded because I agreed one hundred percent. Not that I’d had much of an opportunity to date with my overbearing father and brothers, but it was an essential foundation. I wanted to so badly to ask him about the conversation with Shep I’d overheard the other day. Did he truly not want to be here?

“So I want you to know,” he continued, eyes pinning mine, “that I’m still kind of messed up with everything that happened last season.”

Shnike’s, had he read my thoughts? The moment of happiness disappeared, and my lungs deflated. “You’re still in love with Aspen?”

“I—” He dragged his palm over the back of his neck. “I’m not sure. I just don’t want to jump into anything serious yet.”

I dipped my head, all the hope in my heart deflating.

“I want to be honest with you like you were with me.”

“Thanks for that.”

“I’m not saying I don’t want something eventually. I just came to this show for—”

“A rebound?” I offered.

“Yeah, maybe.” His smile turned sheepish. “But even in the short time I’ve spent with you ladies, I’m starting to think it won’t be so easy to keep it that casual.”

A flicker of hope ignited. I could win him over; I knew I could. “I am looking for something serious.” The words sprang out without my approval. “And I wouldn’t be here if I didn’t think you could be the one, Deacon.” I wasn’t sure where this bravery was coming from, but I went with it. I was a badass alpha heir after all.

He moved closer, his warm citrusy scent lingering on the breeze. “Then let’s just take this slow and see what happens.” His mouth captured mine, and I sank into his embrace. My arms looped around his neck and my lips parted, inviting his tongue for a taste. He kissed me softly, almost chastely.

Despite his gentleness, something hard pressed between my legs. I leaned into him, craving the friction. A few heated moments later, he released me and took a staggered step back.

“I’m going to need to jump into the water to cool off if we keep this up any longer.”

I grinned, ridiculously giddy at having that effect on him. When competing with sexy succubi the stakes were high.

“So was that the special surprise Slade was talking about?”

I internally cursed the damned demon for setting me up for failure. “Um, nope, this is.” On a whim, I slid the sundress off my shoulders and bared my matching lace bra and panties. “A moonlit swim?”

His eyes widened to the size of the slowly cresting moon as his heated gaze raked over me. “Mmm, that sounds perfect.” He unbuttoned his shirt and tossed it onto the sand before shedding his jeans. The dim moonlight glistened over his massive chest and ripped abs. Dark tattoos curled around his powerful arms, and my fingers itched to touch them. My gaze fell lower, to his tight boxer briefs which left little to the imagination, and I swallowed hard.

Deacon offered his hand, forcing my gaze up and away from the perfect outline of his arousal. “Let’s go for a swim.”

17

CUPID BOXERS

Slade

A flicker of excitement surged through my veins as I watched the girls take off from the starting line. Arista, Chance, Aurelia, Everly, Harper, and Vesla. Who would win? Who would I want to win? A bout of nausea churned in my gut. Doesn’t matter, it’s just a game. Then I glanced at the list of clues and groaned. Seriously? My cupid boxers? So cheesy.

“You better hurry up.” Methyss nudged me in the side, and I raced back inside the villa. Chance and Aurelia were huddled together reading the clues and Arista and Everly seemed to have also joined forces. Weren’t they roommates? Harper chewed on her lower lip as she scanned the parchment, and I was fairly certain she’d gnaw it right off. The hint of a smile curled my lip. She was cute. Definitely human. I could smell her innocence and damn, did I want a taste.

Vesla caught my eye from across the room, and she sauntered closer. “How about you give me a little hint, dark lord? We are kin after all.” The brunette arched a mischievous brow.

“I prefer to date outside of my species.”

She puckered her full lips into a sexy pout, and my cock twitched. I guess she wouldn’t be the worst hook up, at least we’d understand each other…

Arista and Everly took off up the stairs, and I spun away from Vesla with a quick wave. I couldn’t let them beat me to my bedroom. Instead of following them, I darted down the hall to the opposite side of the villa. I’d discovered a set of service stairs when I’d sent Rose on that wild goose chase the other day. I smirked at the memory of her face all screwed up into an irresistible pout. That girl was a ball-buster, but gods, she was gorgeous.

I picked up my pace until I reached the doorway to the stairwell and sprinted up the steps. When I reached the second floor, I could just make out the girls’ muddled voices down the hall. They hadn’t made it to my bedroom yet, but they were close.

The creak of the door opening behind me sent my heart rattling against my ribs. I whirled around to find Aurelia leaning against the doorframe. She twirled a lock of auburn hair around her perfectly manicured finger and beckoned me closer. “Hey, sexy.”

“Now’s not a good time, Aurelia.” Sure, I may have hooked up with her again since that first night, but I’d made it very clear it wasn’t serious. She seemed to be as DTF as I was. And I hadn’t even slept with her yet. I’d given her pleasure in other ways, and she’d allowed me to consume hers. It was the perfect symbiotic relationship.

“Come on, Sladey. Just a little taste.” She inched closer and ran her hand down my chest until she cupped my cock.

A growl tore free as she squeezed.

“Aurelia…” I warned. The girls would find my boxers in no time. They had to be in my room by now. “I have to go.” Shoving her off, I darted down the corridor to my side of the bachelor wing. The hallway leading to Deacon’s room caught my eye, and for a brief second, I wondered how his one-on-one date with Rose went.

Not my problem. Not going there.

Chasing away the random thoughts, I rushed to my bedroom door and flung it open. Arista, Chance, and Everly were scouring my drawers, tossing socks and underwear in every direction.

“Hey! Ladies, please, watch it.”

Arista glanced over her shoulder and tossed me a sweet smile with my bikini briefs dangling from her finger. “Sorry, Slade, but I need this date.”

A flicker of heat raced down to my growing erection at her breathless tone. Deacon had told me she’d confessed to being betrothed. She was definitely here for some fun before tying herself to some boring supe her family had bound her to. Suddenly, I was very much team Arista. The blue-haired beauty looked like she was more than ready for a last hurrah.

As her slender fingers slid across my under things, I imagined those hands on me. Oh, yes, she would do quite nicely.

“Found one!” Arista triumphantly held up the black boxers with chubby red cupids. She jogged over and batted dark lashes. “I look forward to taking these off you tonight.”

Oh, shit. I swallowed hard as she shoved my boxers into her bra then stood on her tiptoes and pressed a kiss to my cheek.

“Good luck,” I barely managed before she darted out the door.

Chance and Everly raced behind her, each with a pair of the same boxers in their fists. Guess I’d better go after them before they beat me to the next location.

As I hurried out the door, I nearly barreled into Harper. “Oh, shoot, sorry,” she mumbled. “Dang it, I’m behind, aren’t I?” She stared up at me with those big brown doe eyes, and my cold heart actually thawed a fraction.

“They’re in the bottom drawer of the left armoire in the closet.”

“Oh, thank you!” She jumped up and wrapped her arms around me, drawing me into a tight hug. When she released me and dashed into the closet, I actually missed the warmth of her body. And for once, there was nothing sexual about it.

Maybe I’d been rotting away in the Underworld for too long…

I squeezed my eyes shut, ignoring the unfamiliar spasm and marched out the door.

Harper

Okay, I could do this. I had the boxers and the pooka shell, and now I just needed the Ocoa bird feather. Or at least I was ninety-nine percent sure that was the answer to the final clue. I pushed through the thicket wishing I’d partnered up with one of the other girls. I would’ve even taken Vesla at this point, despite all the nasty things she’s said about me. Getting lost in the jungle would be ten times worse than dealing with her harassment.

And now everyone was gone.

Was I going the wrong way? I could’ve sworn I’d seen those big blue birds nesting along the waterfall. I hitched my backpack higher up on my shoulder and shoved aside the encroaching greenery. Why had I auditioned for this show again?

Oh, right, this was my great adventure. My chance to finally do something fun, crazy and completely un-Harperlike. And just maybe, finally, lose my virginity. Well, mission accomplished, I’d lost something all right. All sense of direction.

Muttering curses, I trekked through the jungle. The waterfall hadn’t been far when I’d come upon it with Rose the other day. Then again, she was the one leading the way. I didn’t know much about supernaturals, but she was definitely one of them. Her sense of direction was uncanny. It was almost as if she could sniff her way toward the treasure. No wonder she’d won the date with Deacon.

My stupid heart gave out a little pitter-patter at the thought of the handsome green-eyed bachelor. When I’d auditioned for the show, I was pretty sure I’d be fighting to win over a tiger-shifter which was wild enough, but a demon dark lord? A shiver gushed down my spine. If I did win this solo date with Slade, I’d have no idea what to do with myself. The sexy incubus oozed lustiness. I’d nearly exploded earlier when I pulled him into a friendly hug.

The rush of cascading water called to me, and a whoosh of relief flooded my chest. Oh, golly, I made it! I snuck through another tangle of vines, and the waterfall appeared across the clearing. Tilting my head back, I found Slade on top of the rushing falls, his bare chest gleaming beneath the mid-afternoon sunshine. I sucked in a breath as I took in his perfect form—those perfectly sculpted abs, muscled chest and that V that descended beneath his swim trunks.

Heat pooled at the apex of my thighs just thinking about it. Last season, Aspen hadn’t nicknamed him Huge Naked Guy for nothing. A whisper of fear bubbled up along with the excitement. Would the pain be worth it? Yuppers, I had a feeling it would definitely be.

As I emerged from the thick copse of trees, Slade’s gaze dipped to meet mine. “Nicely done, Harper, you’re the first one to arrive.”

“I am?” I shrieked.

He smirked down at me, and goodness, he was gorgeous.

A loud squawking called my attention to the flock of giant Ocoas splashing along the shore. I rushed to the edge of the bank and searched the lapping water for discarded feathers. Darn it. Not a single one.

“Looks like you’ll have to pluck one yourself.” The demon watched me with a devilish grin.

“Right.” I crept closer and the flock of six or seven birds eyed me suspiciously. Up close they were even bigger than I thought, nearly the size of ostriches with brilliant azure feathers like a peacock. “Easy, big guy.” I inched up to one as beady little eyes scrutinized me. Holding my hands up, I gave the creature a smile. “I just need one of your feathers. Would you mind?”

It opened its mouth and let out another sharp squawk. Its massive wings unfolded and with a powerful flap, it leapt up over my head and all his friends followed. My head fell back, jaw dropping as I watched my victory fly right out of my grasp.

As all hope bottomed out, Slade let out a whistle and the escaping Ocoas turned a sharp circle right back toward the demon standing at the foot of the falls. They crowded around him, happily cawing.

“How did you do that?” I called out.

He shrugged. “Animals like me. Always have.” That devious smirk parted his lips, only making him look ten times hotter.

“How am I supposed to get my feather now?”

“Why come up here, of course.”

I glared up at him. “How am I supposed to do that?”

He jerked his chin down the length of the cavern. “Climb.”

I followed his line of sight to the base of the hill and crystal lagoon. Moving closer, the splash of the cascades cooled my heated skin. Sure enough, between the trailing ivy was a series of foot and handholds. I glanced up to find those dark eyes pinned to mine.

“Come on, I know you can do it, Harper. It’s an easy climb.”

Maybe for Mr. Sex God with his rippling abs and bulging biceps. Ugh. I sucked in a breath and scanned the handholds jutting out of the hill. There were a lot of them, and it wasn’t particularly steep. I could totally do this. Tightening the straps of my backpack, I placed one foot on the rock. Thank the gods I wore my sneakers.

Okay, one hand over the other. Nice and easy.

I pushed up on my foot, then stretched out my arm to reach the next hand hold. Again and again. My shoulders burned from the effort, my fingers digging into the unyielding rock, but I was making good progress.

Slade crouched at the ledge offering words of encouragement and pointing out the way. He was actually surprisingly sweet.

“You’ve got this, Harper. You’re almost there.” He dropped down to the ground and stretched his arms out toward me. “Just a few more and I’ll be able to reach you.”

Drawing in a breath, I stretched out my fingers and reached for the next handhold jutting out from the hill. My thighs and calves were trembling, but he was right, I was almost there. I couldn’t believe I was going to be the one to win the solo date with Slade.

Just the idea had heat flushing my cheeks.

“Whoa, whoa, Harper, don’t lose focus now.”

A wave of embarrassment rolled over me as I realized he must have sensed my lusty thoughts. Oh goodness, kill me now. Clenching my teeth, I stretched up for the next one, pushing myself further up the hill.

A murmur of voices caught my attention from the jungle. Arista, Chance and Everly’s heads popped up from the sea of verdant greenery. Oh no, I have to hurry.

Slade hung over the ledge, arms stretched out. “Come on, reach for me. I’ll pull you up.”

A silly grin curled my lips as I splayed out my fingers. Had he seen the other girls approaching? Did he actually want me to win? I have to!

My fingertips brushed his, and those lusty sensations swam over me like a tidal wave. I had to suppress a moan as his hand wrapped around mine. A sharp whine cut through the air, and a silver blur darted only inches from my face.

Pain lanced into my hand, and I let out a squeal. A dagger pierced my flesh, a line of blood bubbling across my skin. I gasped and lost my grip on Slade.

“No!” he cried.

And I fell.

18

THANK THE ANGELS

Slade

“No!” The scream tore through my clenched teeth as I splayed out my fingers to catch Harper. She slipped from my grasp, eyes latched onto mine. Terror seized my veins as I watched her fall for an endless minute. “No!” I shouted and cursed again. How could I be so useless?

A blur of white streaked across the jungle and scooped Harper into a golden glow.

My thundering heartbeats slowed as I focused on the luminescent form carrying the girl to safety. What in all the realms? I leapt over the edge of the cliff, nearly missing a handhold in my mad rush.

When I reached the jungle floor, Harper remained entangled in Everly’s arms, soft feathered wings enveloping the frightened girl. The blonde bachelorette held her close and whispered soothingly. A golden glow emanated from her fingertips as she brushed strands of hair from Harper’s pale face.

“You’re an angel,” I murmured.

The pretty blonde smiled and tucked her wings behind her back. “Nephilim, actually. Guess I ruined the big reveal.”

“Fuck the big reveal. You saved her life.” I knelt down beside them, an unfamiliar emotion stirring within my chest. I brushed away a smudge of dirt from Harper’s cheek. “Are you okay?”

She nodded and cradled her wounded hand. A long gash pierced the back of her palm. Shit. I tore my eyes away from the cut and back to her face as guilt swarmed my insides. The light dusting of freckles on her cheeks stood out in sharp contrast to her ashen complexion.

“Here, let me heal that for you.” Everly took Harper’s palm and bathed it in a golden glow. Her flayed skin stitched back together in seconds.

Amazing. “I’m so sorry, Harper,” I muttered and squeezed her good hand. It was like ice.

“Why? You didn’t do anything wrong.”

“I couldn’t save you… I wasn’t fast enough or strong enough.” I’m a dark lord of nothing. What the hell is all that power good for? My thoughts swirled to the past and darkness consumed my vision. Aspen with those dark lord monsters in the Underworld. They’d tortured her because of me. What if this was all because of me too?

The dagger…

I forced the grisly thoughts to the dark corners of my mind and searched the foot of the hill. Where did it go? Tipping my head up, I traced a path down the falls. Based on its projection, it could be at the bottom of the lagoon by now. I had to find it. Maybe it would tell us something about the attacker.

“Hold on, I’ll be right back.”

“Where are you going?” Everly asked.

“There was a dagger. It was the reason Harper fell. I have to find it.”

“No, wait, Slade!” Harper’s cry was drowned out beneath the cool waters.

I swam deeper, scouring the earthen floor for the metallic gleam of the blade. I knew the likelihood of finding it was slim, but I had to try. I couldn’t ignore the niggling sensation in my gut that this was somehow all my fault.

My lungs tightened, started to burn, but I pushed on. With the falls driving the current, if I didn’t find it quickly, it could be lost forever. A fiery burn raced across my chest, and I was forced to resurface. Sucking in a sharp breath, I waded across the deepest part of the lagoon.

“Find anything?” Arista called out. She and Chance now stood at the shore beside Harper and Everly. At least Harper was sitting upright now.

“Nothing,” I growled.

“I can help you. I’m a pretty decent swimmer.”

My pride insisted I refuse, but the girl was likely a mer-something. Perhaps she’d see something underwater I could miss. “Come on in, the water’s warm.”

She nodded and peeled off her tank top and short shorts. If I hadn’t been so concerned with finding that damned weapon, I would’ve enjoyed the view of her tight little body in that skimpy bikini.

Arista dove in and reappeared a moment later right beside me. Gods, she was fast. Definitely from the Ocean Realm.

“It has to be in this general vicinity.” I motioned a circle around us.

“Unless the tide got it already.” The rush of falls pushed the current out toward the adjoining river that snaked across the island.

“Yes, that’s what I feared.”

“I’ll check it out.” Her brilliant blue hair disappeared beneath the waves, and I joined her.

But there was no way I could keep up. She moved like she belonged in the water. And likely, she did. Arista scoured the lagoon floor without ever emerging while I’d been back and forth to the surface three times already.

If she couldn’t find the dagger, it was gone.

The final time I emerged, I found Aurelia and Vesla beside the others.

“Any luck?” Harper asked.

“Nothing. It’s like it vanished.”

“Maybe it did,” said Aurelia. “It could have been spelled.” She eyed Everly and Harper. “The girls caught us up on the dagger incident.”

Great.

“Why would anyone want to kill Harper?” Chance asked.

There was no reason. Me, on the other hand? A hundred possibilities.

Frustrated, I released a grunt and swam toward shore. Arista had yet to resurface, and I figured I was of no help at this point anyway.

When I reached the girls, they were peppering Harper with questions. There was no way she was the target. No more than Crystal was. Both of these scenarios had one thing in common: me.

The buzz of an approaching drone sent my gaze lifting to the sky. “About time,” I grumbled.

“Oh no, Everly, what if they eliminate you?” Harper’s lower lip trembled.

“I won’t let that happen,” I snarled. “If they kick her off the show, I’m out.”

All five women stared up at me, a mixture of surprise and something I refused to admit in their eyes. I was no hero, but damn, it felt good to be mistaken for one.

“Where is that slimy producer anyway?” I searched the sky for the drone and waved it down. “Come on, Shep, we need to talk.”

Arista emerged from the crystalline waters diverting my attention. She swam to the edge, bounding through the choppy waves like a water nymph. “Sorry, no luck with the dagger.”

I hissed out a curse.

“There’s no way the production team can blow this off as an accident. Blades don’t just fly through the air of their own accord.”

“That’s true,” said Vesla. “So who wielded it?” Her pale blue irises razed over each of the females surrounding Harper.

Could one of these girls really be an assassin?

The clamor of female voices had the hair on the back of my neck on end. When Deacon stalked toward me, I let out a breath of relief. The tiger reeked of testosterone and for once, I welcomed it.

“What the hell happened now?” Deacon growled.

Harper sat at the couch beside me with a blanket wrapped around her shoulders, the girls all huddled around her. Her naturally rosy hue had returned, but still guilt ate away at my insides.

“Fuck if I know.” The guilt was momentarily overpowered by irritation. I didn’t need shit from the prickly tiger; I needed his support against the shifty production team.

“I heard Harper was stabbed?”

“No,” I gritted out. “Damned gossip mill.” I huffed out a breath and took a step closer to the tiger. “Harper was climbing up the waterfall, about to win and a dagger shot out of nowhere. But I was leaning over the edge trying to help her. It could have just as easily nicked me instead of her.”

“You think you were the target?”

“It’s the only thing that makes sense. And it was my date with the girls when Crystal was supposedly poisoned.”

Deacon’s lips twisted.

“What?”

“Um, yeah, about that. Dawn just told me she heard back from my SIA guy, and he confirmed it. Definitely poison.”

I muttered another curse. “It’s me. Someone is after me.”

“But why?”

“I’m the damned dark lord of the fourth realm, Deac.” I raked my hand through my hair and tugged at the ends. “I’ve made a few enemies along the way. Demons are nasty, jealous bastards. I had to do some things I’m not too proud of to secure my position.”

“You’re forgetting about the jet ski fire.”

I spun around at Harper’s faint whisper.

She glanced up at us, eyes wide. “Slade, you weren’t there for that. It had nothing to do with you.”

Curses, wasn’t this girl human? How did she hear us? I exhaled another frustrated breath.

“That fire was something else,” Deacon muttered.

I whirled on my friend. “What does that mean?”

Rose appeared between us, a deep line furrowing her brows. “Everyone okay?” She wrapped Harper into a hug. “Thank the gods Everly was there.”

“Thank the angels,” I muttered.

“Yeah, I just hope she doesn’t get kicked off the show for saving me.” Harper chewed on her lower lip.

“She won’t,” I growled.

“They can’t… They didn’t back when—” Rose’s lips clamped shut.

“They didn’t when what?” Harper asked.

“Never mind. I just can’t believe Sheppard would be so cruel. Everly only broke the rules to save your life.”

“You don’t know anything about what Shep would or wouldn’t do for the success of this show.” I eyed the naïve Rose. Sure, in her world everything turned up roses. Stupid pun intended. That wasn’t the way it was in reality. Or reality television.

The sound of approaching footfalls sent everyone’s gaze spinning toward the entrance. Sheppard and Dax marched in, wearing matching scowls, with Sam scrambling behind them. The moment they entered the great room, a volley of questions shot out.

“Is Hitched really cursed?”

“Are we in danger?”

“Who’s next?”

“What are you going to do to protect us?”

“Is there an assassin on the loose?”

I squeezed my eyes shut and tried to drown out the incessant rambling. These poor girls had no idea their questions would fall on deaf ears. Deacon slid me a knowing glance as if he’d read my mind.

“Ladies, please.” Sam held up her hands and shushed the room. “We understand you’re all scared, but please trust that the producers have everything under control.”

“So you know who threw that dagger?” Arista asked.

“Not yet.” Dax crossed his arms over his chest, scowling at the producer.

“But we’re working on it.” Shep straightened his tie and leaned on the armchair. “The solo date with Slade will continue as planned tonight, then we will take a day off to further assess the situation. The first round of eliminations is scheduled after that.”

A chorus of gasps filled the room.

“With fewer ladies here, it’ll be easier to determine what’s going on. With any luck, the guilty party or parties will be eliminated.”

“You really think it’s one of us?” Crystal blurted.

Well, probably not you, sweetie.

“We’re not certain of anything at this point,” Sam answered.

Electra raised her hand. “How many will be eliminated?”

Shep and Dax exchanged a furtive glance. “You’ll find out on elimination day.”

More groans.

“What if it was one of the girls and you let her go?” Vesla asked. “Then she’ll never have to pay for her crimes.”

“We’ll leave that up to the SIA, young lady.”

What a crock of unipeg shit.

“Now, we must discuss the issue with Everly revealing her true supernatural self before the game allowed.”

I glanced over at Deacon, and we stepped forward as one. “If she goes, we both go,” I snarled. “Everly saved Harper’s life, and if anything, you should be giving her a prize, not threatening to send her home. What kind of a monster are you, Sheppard Hawke?”

He cleared his throat, eyes gone cartoon-character wide. “I never said anyone was going home.” The dickhead was backpedaling. He probably figured I’d offer to quit but not both of us. Without us, there was no show. “I simply wanted to remind everyone that revealing that information is not okay. However, given the extreme circumstances, Everly’s disregard for the rules will be overlooked. This time. I still request that you all maintain your secrets until the big reveal.”

Muttered okays filled the quiet room.

“Fine, as long as that’s settled—”

“And you’re really going to make us go through with the solo date with everything up in the air like this?” I barked.

“Yes, Slade, I’m going to force you on a date with one of these beautiful young women. I truly am a monster, aren’t I?”

Deacon smirked, and I barely contained the urge to slap him upside the head.

“But no one won. Who gets the date?” Arista asked.

Shep turned to me, a wicked gleam in his dark gaze. “I figured we’d let Slade decide.”

All eyes turned to me, and my gut twisted.

Asshole.

I hated disappointing these women. But the truth was that there was only one girl who deserved to win. I turned to Harper and dropped down on one knee. If I’m doing this, I’m going all out, right? “Harper, will you do me the honor of a date tonight?” I threw her my best smile.

Her cheeks flamed an enticing crimson, and her head bobbed up and down. “Yes, absolutely.”

19

COVERED IN—SUSHI?

Slade

An unfamiliar sensation filled my chest as I took the steps two at a time to the great room. Hmm… little tiny wings beating against my insides. I couldn’t possibly be nervous about this date with Harper. Right? Shaking off the wild thoughts, I adjusted my collar and continued down the staircase to the appointed location.

According to Sam’s note, I was to meet Harper in the foyer where we would be whisked off to some undoubtedly uber-romantic solo date. Again, that odd disturbance in my gut. I turned the corner and instead of cameras and Harper, I found Electra lounging on a chaise facing the ocean.

“You’re not my date…”

She turned and offered a smile that had my heart stuttering. Gods, the girl looked too much like Aspen. “I wish I was.” She stood and sauntered closer, revealing an envelope between her fingers.

“What’s that?”

“I’m not sure. Some assistant dropped it off in my room a few minutes ago and told me to meet you here.”

The hair on the back of my neck rose, and I eyed the beautiful blonde.

“It’s not booby-trapped if that’s what you’re worried about.” Electra laughed as she handed it over.

There was something so appealing about this girl. She looks like Aspen, a dark voice whispered in my mind. No, not that, I countered. Wonderful, now I’m having arguments with myself.

I slid my finger under the fold and pried the envelope open. An invitation in fancy cursive with mine and Harper’s names on it. My brows knitted as I read over the handwriting. “This can’t be right. It says the date is in my bedroom.”

Electra shot me a heart-stopping smile. “Sounds like the perfect place to me.” She leaned closer and ran her finger down the buttons of my freshly laundered shirt. “Maybe you can show me around your room again before the first elimination. I’d hate to miss out on all the fun.”

“I’m not eliminating you.” The words burst out of my mouth before I could stop them. Way to play the game, idiot. The truth was I couldn’t imagine eliminating her because she reminded me too much of Aspen. It would be like breaking my heart all over again.

Her smile grew wider, and she rose to her tiptoes, brushing a soft kiss to my cheek. “Enjoy your date, Slade. Hopefully we’ll get our chance soon.” She spun on her heel and disappeared down the hall, leaving me…uncomfortable.

Shaking my head out, I turned for the stairs, again taking them two at a time. I was definitely late for my date with Harper. I could just imagine her cheeks stained an appealing crimson as she sat waiting in my bedroom.

When I reached the second floor, I practically sprinted down the hall and whipped open the door to my chamber. Again, I expected a table, candles, maybe rose petals, but nothing. “Harper?” I searched the sprawling room until my gaze caught on the open door in the far corner. The hidden door.

No fucking way.

I crept toward the ruby glow, a flicker of growing heat racing below my belt with each step. When I reached the threshold, I peered inside, anticipation in full bloom. A milky white form coalesced atop the silk sheets, covered in—sushi?

“Harper?” I marched in, and her cheeks flushed.

Good gods, she was naked and covered in nothing but raw fish. Well, the important parts anyway.

“Oh, hi.” She nibbled on her lower lip as my heated gaze raked over every tempting inch of her. I’d never been much of a sushi guy, but realms, she looked delicious.

And mortified.

I sat down beside her, forcing my gaze from her perfect body to her eyes. And what I saw there squeezed all the air from my lungs. “Why did you do this?”

She shrugged and a piece of sushi rolled off her breast, revealing a peaked nipple. A growl vibrated in my chest, and I barked out a fake cough to conceal the completely inappropriate sound. “I thought you’d like it,” she finally mumbled. “I know how the other girls act around you, and I just wanted to leave an impression. They’re all so much more experienced than I am and—” She cut herself off, sucking in that lower lip again.

“Oh, Harper. This was supposed to be fun for both of us. A way to get to know each other a bit better. I didn’t expect to ravage you on the first date.” I shot her a wicked grin.

“Oh…” Her cheeks flamed, lips screwing into a pout.

“I’m flattered you went through so much just for me. But honestly, I didn’t have any expectations.” Her body trembled, and I laced my fingers through her hand. “You’re freezing!”

“Yeah, it’s a little cold.”

I sprang up and jogged to my room, scouring my drawers for the first oversized t-shirt I could find. When I returned, Harper was sitting up with her arms crossed over her breasts and sushi spilling down her stomach.

My cock twitched at the sight. Hmm, next time, buddy.

“Do you want to take a shower?” I asked before I handed her the shirt.

Her eyes widened, and those pretty pink lips parted on a sharp inhale.

“Alone,” I added. “To get cleaned up, maybe?”

“Oh.” A giggle burst through her lips. “Yeah, that would be fantastic. I lost track of the wasabi and eek, that could be bad.” She peered between her legs, and I bit down on my tongue to keep from laughing.

She tugged the shirt over her head and climbed off the mess of sushi and silk sheets. “This is so embarrassing.”

“Don’t be embarrassed. This was really sweet.” I offered her my hand. “Come on, let’s get you cleaned up, and then we can have a real date.”

Her eyes lit up as she regarded me. “Thank you,” she whispered. “You know, Slade, I think all the girls are wrong about you.”

“I’m not sure I want to know what that means.” I kept walking toward the bathroom, but she moved in step beside me.

“You have this cold but super sexy exterior, but I think it’s all an act. I think you’re really just a big softie inside.”

The laugh I’d been trying to hold in finally broke free, and I tossed my head back and let out a loud chuckle. I might have even snorted. “Just call me dark lord softie.” I squeezed her hand and led her into the bathroom. Once I’d turned on the shower to just the right temperature, I walked out like a gentleman. Despite my erection pressing against my fancy slacks.

Harper was not at all what I’d expected.

Harper

Slade wasn’t anything like the crazed sex demon I’d expected. The errant thought crossed my mind as I toweled off, the sweet scent of lavender filling my nostrils. Slade’s bathroom was way better than the one I shared with Rose and my suitemates. The oversized rain showerhead was like heaven.

I slipped into the soft terrycloth robe Slade had left for me, ditching the sushi covered t-shirt. A part of me was sad it got dirty. I liked the smell of Slade on me. It was something spicy and mysterious. Much like the demon bachelor himself.

I caught my reflection in the mirror and ran my fingers through my damp locks, trying my best to style them. I didn’t know what the heck I’d been thinking with that whole naked sushi dinner. I’d obviously lost my mind trying to be some sexy temptress in that Sex in the City failed re-creation. But just being around Slade made me want to let loose. Maybe it was his sex god powers leeching through the cloaking spell or maybe it was just him.

Loosening the tie around my robe to reveal the silhouette of my breast, I drew in a breath and opened the door. Slade sat on the monster king-sized bed surrounded by candles. His handsome face was aglow in the soft light, and my heart stamped out a ragged beat. Golly, he was gorgeous. Next to him sat two plates, each with a sandwich.

“I hope you like peanut butter and acasia berry. It was my mom’s specialty and my favorite growing up.” He smiled, an unguarded smile curling the corners of his lips. The cocky demon was gone, replaced by a guy I was really starting to like.

As I walked closer, his heated gaze raked over me sending a chill up my spine. His eyes fell between the gap in my robe, and a wave of excitement lit up my insides. Had to be his demon powers, right?

I folded down beside him and eyed the sandwiches. Globs of jelly seeped out the sides. “Looks yummy.”

He laughed, the warm sound filling the air. “I’ll warn you now, I’m no cook. I do however have a slew of chefs at the fortress.”

“In the Underworld?” I swallowed hard.

“That’s right.”

Good golly, when I entered the competition, I never even considered falling for the demon bad boy. It was still so early in the game and anything could happen, but could I imagine living in the Underworld?

“They do let us out sometimes,” he continued. He must have noticed my expression.

“I’m sure it’s lovely there,” I countered lamely.

“Lovely might be a stretch, but it’s not as bad as it sounds.” He shrugged, and there was something about the look in his eye that made my heart pinch. “Nah, who am I kidding? It’s pretty much hell.”

“You really hate it there?”

His chin dipped to his chest. “Mostly.” Tossing his head from side to side, he released a breath. “It’s fine. I guess I hadn’t realized how much I missed the rest of the world until I got here. The past few months have been pretty hectic establishing my reign and all.”

“I bet.” I reached for his hand tentatively, and I was surprised when he let me take it.

“Anyway, let’s talk about something else. This is supposed to be fun, remember? If you don’t give me a smile, I’ll take you back into the Red Room.”

A nervous chuckle slid from my lips. “I—I’ve never done anything like that.”

He cocked a mischievous brow. “Oh really? You’ve never gotten kinky, Miss Harper?”

“I’ve never had sex,” I blurted.

Slade’s face went ashen, and I clapped my hand over my traitorous mouth. What the heck is wrong with me?

“Oh…” Some of the color returned to his face, and he shifted uncomfortably.

I glanced down and caught the huge bulge between his legs. More heat raced down south.

No one spoke for an embarrassingly long minute.

“Are you opposed to—”

“No!” I squeaked, cutting him off. “I mean, I want to, I just haven’t found the right guy yet. Or at least that’s what I told myself for a long time. I was waiting for the one. But now, it kind of seems silly. A part of me just wants to rip off the band aid.”

He chuckled. “That sounds terribly unpleasant.” He leaned in closer, and his warm breath mingled between us. “It’s extremely important to have a pleasurable first experience.”

Wetness pooled between my legs at his rough tone. “Umhmm,” I mumbled.

Slade reached for my cheek, rough thumb grazing my skin. “Thank you for sharing that with me.”

I almost admitted I hadn’t meant to. Instead, I leaned into his palm, his gentle touch sending goose bumps spilling down my arms. His eyes flickered to my lips, but he didn’t make a move. This was exactly why I shouldn’t have told him. Now, he’d never touch me.

Pushing the dishes from between us, I slid closer. A rumble echoed in Slade’s chest, urging me on. Then I remembered the huge bulge in his pants, and it only emboldened me further. I pressed my lips to his, and a faint moan vibrated his throat. Yes! Point for the virgin. The only positive about not having sex was that I’d gotten darned good at kissing.

Slade fisted his hand in my hair, deepening the kiss, and now I was the one moaning. Our tongues entangled, nibbling and tasting. It went from sweet and innocent to red-alarm fire in sixty seconds flat. Electricity zipped through my veins, and fiery heat raced to my core. Holy cow, this was not normal. I suddenly remembered I wasn’t wearing any underwear and if we kept this up for much longer, I’d leave an embarrassing wet spot on his silky sheets.

After a few more tantalizing seconds, I reluctantly pulled away. Slade glanced down at me, lids heavy and hooded. “Miss Harper, I think you lied to me. There is no way a virgin could kiss like that.”

A pleased grin slid across my lips. “Thanks.”

He laughed again then reached for the sandwiches. “We better eat something, or I’m going to need to take a cold shower.”

“Let’s save that for our second date.” I shot him a smirk as I grabbed a sandwich and dug in.

20

CHOOSE WISELY

Deacon

“What are you doing here?” I ran my hand through my hair and let out a yawn as I stared at the demon darkening my doorway. “It’s not even seven. I thought you liked to sleep in?”

“Generally, I do.” Slade slipped past me despite my best efforts to block the entrance. I’d hoped for a few more hours of sleep. He stomped around the middle of my bedroom, hands clenched at his sides before he spun around to face me. His jaw was clenched so tight, a tendon fluttered like mad below the scruffy surface.

“Is something wrong?”

“Yes!” He threw his hands up and growled.

“Is it Harper? Did something happen on your date?”

The corner of his lip twitched, and he released a grunt. “No, not like that.”

“Then what the hell has your panties in a bunch?”

He dropped down on my bed with another exaggerated groan. “I’m just worried that what happened to Harper is my fault. I can’t stop thinking about it. What if she’d died? What if Everly hadn’t been there to catch her?”

“Have you suddenly developed a conscience?” I couldn’t help the smirk.

“Don’t be an asshole, Deacon. I’m serious.”

I shuffled over to the bed and folded down beside him. Damn, he was really worried about this. “Look, we all know shady shit happens on this show. It doesn’t mean it’s your fault. It could be any number of things.”

The faint lines across his forehead deepened, and he stared up at the ceiling, unblinking.

“Is there any particular threat we should be worried about?” I asked.

“Besides Azara, the other dark lords are all devious, conniving monsters. My father included. I wouldn’t put anything past any of them.”

“So, we’ll just keep an extra eye peeled.” I tugged down on my lower eyelid and earned a half-smile. Slade was insufferable most of the time, but not even I liked seeing him this flustered. “You sure nothing happened with Harper last night to bring this freak out on?”

“I’m not freaking out,” he snarled.

“Then why is your foot tapping like fucking crazy? The staff downstairs is going to think a flock of mad wallapeckers broke in.”

He huffed out a breath and stilled his leg. “This whole thing was only supposed to be for fun. I never wanted anyone to get hurt. I didn’t see myself getting attached to any of the women… and now with the first elimination on the horizon, I may be slightly anxious.”

“Freaking out.” I smirked.

“Do you know who you’re eliminating, you tiger tool?”

I blew out a breath, all the amusement at fucking with the demon vanishing. “No, not exactly.” This was the part I was dreading. I’d always thought Aspen was so lucky to be able to choose, but now that the shoe was on the other foot, it sounded horrible. How could I eliminate any of these girls? Some I hadn’t even gotten to know very well yet. It sucked, but I’d probably have to go with those.

“And aren’t you getting all teary-eyed at the idea?” he snapped. “You’re the big softie, after all.”

“Well, I’m not looking forward to it if that’s what you’re asking.” I stood and marched over to the desk. Yanking the drawer open, I pulled out the dossiers I’d gotten from Sam on the first day. My thoughts flickered back to the two group dates and the solo one with Rose. It was so hard to really get to know the girls in such a short amount of time.

“I wonder how many we have to eliminate.” Slade’s words drew me back to the present.

“And will we each get our pick, or do we have to decide together?” Shit, what if Slade eliminates someone I liked or vice-versa.

“Who knows?”

A soft knock on the door sent my spiraling thoughts into overdrive. Everything would be different this time around. How had I not thought about this earlier? “Who is it?” I barked.

“It’s Dawn. Rise and shine, tiger.”

“Oooh, Dawn.” Slade shot me a wink to accompany his sing-song. “You know,” he whispered, “when she’s making me pretty, you’re all she talks about.”

“Shut up.” I trudged to the door and whipped it open. I couldn’t help the smile from forming when my gaze landed on the cute pixie and her sweet gardenia scent reached my sensitive nostrils.

“Morning, handsome.” She shot me a smile, those silver eyes glittering beneath hot pink bangs. She glanced over my shoulder, and her lips twisted into a pout as they found my demon friend. “Oh, hi, Slade.”

“See what I mean?” Slade cocked a mischievous brow as he rose. “I’ll leave you guys to it.”

“No, actually, I have something for both of you.” Dawn pulled two envelopes from the outside pocket of her make up kit. “I ran into Sam downstairs, and she asked me to deliver these.”

A groan squeezed from between my clenched teeth. I eyed Slade as he dragged his finger underneath the seal.

“Come on, open yours too.” He dug his elbow into my side as I waffled. I had a damned good idea what this little love note was about, and I had no interest in rushing it.

Slade scanned the letter, his brows furrowing. All right, just do it already. I sucked in a breath and tore mine open. I recognized our emcee’s frilly handwriting, and my stomach churned.

Congratulations, gentlemen!

You’ve survived your first week in Mystic Cove, which means it’s time for the first elimination. Tonight, you’ll each be sending two lovely contestants home. As there are two of you this season, you may wish to coordinate your pick to avoid the others’ wrath, but there is no requirement to do so. Remember to choose wisely! See you in the ballroom at six o’clock sharp.

Cordially yours,

Methyss

“Great,” I grumbled. “So how are we going to do this?”

“I guess we should coordinate.” Slade glanced at the dossiers on the bed.

“Dawn, you think you can give us some time before we get started?”

She nibbled on her lower lip, her translucent wings flapping behind her. “Yeah, sure. You guys don’t have anything scheduled until this evening anyway.”

“Then why are you here so early?” Slade asked.

Her cheeks flushed crimson, and she dropped her gaze to the floor. “I just thought maybe Deacon could use some company. I figured elimination day would be a tough one.”

A flicker of unexpected emotion filled my chest, and my lips slid into a smile. “Thanks, Dawn that was really thoughtful of you. I’d like to hang out once we sort through all of this.”

“Okay, great. I’ll be just outside when you’re done.” She turned on her heel and floated out of the room.

Slade chuckled the moment the door closed behind her. “Oh, she’s got it bad for you, you sexy tiger.” He punched me in the shoulder, and a deep growl vibrated my chest.

“Fuck off.”

“Testy…”

“I think I liked you better when you were freaking out.” I shot him a sneer and marched to the bed and the array of glossy photos. Two women. Plus, another two for Slade. Which four would we say goodbye to?

Slade

We poured over the damned dossiers for hours. And still, we couldn’t settle on the four to eliminate. Maybe we should’ve just done this separately. Two, I could wrap my head around. It was four that was bugging me. My mind kept flicking to Dawn… was she still waiting for Deacon outside? Not that I had any feelings for the pixie stylist, but the fact that she obviously preferred the tiger sent a trace of irritation through my insides.

I flipped through the images and divided them into two piles. The ones I definitely wouldn’t eliminate and the maybes. The first one was decidedly taller than the other.

“Chance?” I offered.

“No,” Deacon snarled.

“What about Crystal?”

“She almost died! How can we get rid of her?”

It had been going on like this forever. We were no closer now than we were two hours ago.

“Well, I’d definitely eliminate Aurelia.” Deacon held the beautiful redhead’s photo in his fist.

“You just don’t like her because she sucked my dick.”

“Exactly,” he huffed.

“And how would it look if I eliminated her?”

“You wouldn’t be the one doing it, I would.”

“Still seems pretty fucked up.” I glanced at her gleaming smile, and a prickle of guilt stabbed at my heart. I’d thoroughly enjoyed her company and it wasn’t just about her mouth.

“Haven’t you screwed around with most of these women already?” Deacon waved his hands wildly. “What was your grand plan to not eliminate any of the ones you messed around with?”

“Guess I hadn’t really thought it through,” I grumbled.

“Obviously.”

He shoved another picture in my face. “How about Electra?”

“No!” My voice rose a few more octaves than I was proud of.

“Why not?”

“She looks too much like Aspen. I’d feel like I was losing her all over again.” I snapped my mouth shut the moment the confession escaped my traitorous lips.

Deacon shook his head. “She’s not Aspen.”

“I know.” I ran my finger over the image of the beautiful blonde, moving across her cheek, then down to those full lips. Gods, sometimes I missed Aspen so much the pain nearly swallowed me whole. Fucking Knox. Fucking wolf bond shit.

“I can eliminate Aurelia and Electra.” The line between Deacon’s brows deepened, a frown carving his mouth.

“Ugh,” I muttered.

“So that just leaves your picks.”

“Vesla.” She was the only one I could think of, and I still felt guilty betraying a fellow sex demon.

“Oh, come on, Slade… not her.”

“Why not?” My brow rose as I scrutinized his tortured expression. “Don’t tell me you got down and dirty with the slutty succubus?”

He dragged his hands over his face and groaned. “Almost.”

“Damn, I’m impressed, Deac. I didn’t think you had it in you. I thought you were saving yourself for the lovely Rose.”

His expression darkened, and he took a measured step closer. “If you utter a word about this to her…”

“What? Are you scared she won’t worship the ground you walk on anymore? That she’ll realize all males need a little sexual pleasure sometimes?”

“Slade,” he growled.

I raised my hands innocently. “Don’t worry, tiger, your secret is safe with me. I’d never want to break the poor girl’s heart.”

He shook his head. “Don’t be a dick.”

“I’m not, not at all. If I wanted to be a dick, I’d hold that little bit of knowledge over your head. If I had any interest in winning over the beautiful Rose, that is. Which lucky for you, I do not.” Liar. A deep voice called out from the dark corners of my mind.

“Good.” Deacon fell back on the bed and released a frustrated breath. “I think I need a break.”

“Same.” Collecting my set of photos I’d returned to my room for earlier, I shoved them back into the folder.

“See you tonight,” Deacon called out as I stalked from the chamber.

Trudging down the hall, my heart felt heavy. I never thought it would be so hard to eliminate these women. Between the two of us, it was nearly impossible. I couldn’t imagine what would happen as the contestant pool became smaller.

As I marched the remaining distance to my room, I couldn’t help but think of Harper, Rose, Arista, and my other favorites. At least they’d be safe. What worried me was what would happen if these women were forced to choose between Deacon and me?

21

FAR FROM FLAWLESS

Everly

My wings fluttered nervously as I re-applied another layer of lipstick in front of the mirror. Since I’d outed myself when saving Harper, I often unfurled my wings in the privacy of our room. It was much more comfortable that way. Our team of stylists had come and gone, but I was so nervous I couldn’t stop fidgeting. My boobs spilled out of the low-cut dress and a hint of flab peeked out over the fine satin beneath my armpits. Despite being Nephilim, I was far from flawless, and my curvy frame barely squeezed into this designer dress. Unlike my super slender roommate, Arista, who always looked effortlessly perfect.

Arista marched into the bathroom and eyed me through the mirror. “Stop fidgeting, Everly.”

“Yeah, you look fine.” Roxy and Iris called out in unison from their half of the suite through the opposite door. Sharing a bathroom with three other girls wasn’t ideal, but I supposed it was better than all twelve of us sharing. And after the eliminations tonight… how many of us would be left?

Roxy sauntered into the bathroom wearing an emerald green gown that was the perfect match to her eyes and in stunning contrast to her light auburn hair. Her half-sister sashayed in behind her, scrutinizing her reflection in the mirror. Despite sharing a suite with the sisters, I hadn’t learned much about either of them this past week. Father wouldn’t be pleased.

“I don’t know why you’re so worried,” said Iris. “You saved Harper’s life. I doubt either of the guys would eliminate you.”

“But they don’t even know me. I’ve barely spoken to either of them.” Which was my own stupid fault. I was too darn shy. I’d only said a few words to Deacon, and hardly a single one to Slade. He was just so intimidating—and so gorgeous. I needed to cement my place here so I could complete my mission.

Arista waved a nonchalant hand. “You’ll be fine. You’re an angel. You’re useful to have around.”

“Thanks,” I gritted out. All my life I’d been treated like that. The pretty little angel made of glass. My father still thought of me as a child, even though had I been born fully human I would’ve long since been considered an adult. The only reason I was here was because of my father. His motive for getting me on the show was completely different than my own. If I made it past the first eliminations, I vowed to be a new Everly starting tomorrow. I didn’t want to just be my father’s good little soldier anymore.

“I wonder how many girls will be eliminated tonight.” Arista puckered her lips at her reflection. My roommate had no right being here, if you asked me. It wasn’t that I didn’t like her, it was that she had a fiancé waiting for her at home. That just didn’t seem right when there were girls here really looking for love. She just wanted a quick lay. And shockingly, she hadn’t gotten it yet. She’d admitted even Slade had turned her down.

Which was a huge point for the demon in my mind.

“My guess is four,” Roxy chimed in. “That’s how they did it last season.”

“But now there are two bachelors,” her sister countered.

That was true. I wondered if they’d ever split us up by bachelor. Did we even get a vote on which one we preferred? Given all the drama lately, I had a feeling father would prefer me to stick with Slade. Most of the incidents seemed to revolve around the demon dark lord.

“We better get moving if we want to find out,” said Arista. She slapped me on the butt, and I jumped, jerked out of my thoughts.

As the girls sauntered toward the door, I took one last look at my bedroom. Even if I did get eliminated tonight, at least I’d had a week of fun and freedom. It was more than I’d ever had before. Closing the door behind me, I hurried to catch up to the girls.

The corridor was a mess of bodies in a rainbow of gowns. A hint of insecurity bubbled up, and I folded my wings behind my back. Excited chatter filled the air as I followed the rest of the bachelorettes toward the staircase.

“Hey, Everly!” A warm hand tapped me on the shoulder, and I spun around.

Harper stood behind me with Rose and Crystal on either side. The three women looked stunning, Harper in a light pink flowy gown, Rose in an elegant gold sequined number and Crystal wearing a curve-hugging white cocktail dress.

“I just wanted to thank you again,” said Harper, “and wish you good luck today. I might not even be here if it weren’t for you.”

Warmth flooded my cheeks, and I shook my head. “You’ve already thanked me enough, Harper. The homemade cookies and blueberry muffins were above and beyond. And anyway, I told you, it’s my job.” I lowered my voice and leaned in. “I’m a guardian angel, remember?”

“I know, but it was still a risky move. You could’ve been kicked off the show.”

“Well, she might have thanked you, but I haven’t,” said Rose. “So, thank you so much for saving my friend.”

“Any time.” I gave both girls warm smiles. “How are you feeling Crystal?”

“I’m fine. No residual effects of whatever the hell happened to me.”

“You never did find out if it was poison or not?” Rose asked.

“Nope. And honestly, maybe it’s best not to know.”

There was definitely something strange going on, as usual. Father was right to send me to keep an eye on things. I only hoped I could discover what it was before someone really got hurt. Or worse, I was eliminated.

Deacon

“Relax, Deacon, you look great.” Dawn stood on her tiptoes in front of me as her fingers worked her magic with the blasted bow tie.

I’d been trying to tie it for the last five minutes. I was so damned nervous my hands were shaking. Slade and I had briefly conferred again late last night, and we’d come up with the final four to be eliminated, and since then I couldn’t shake the pit of dread in my stomach.

We just couldn’t agree on the four, so we’d ended up splitting the vote, two for him and two for me. I still felt terrible about it.

What would happen later down the line when we were down to the final contestants? The pit in my stomach grew to the size of a damned boulder.

“There, totally bangable.” Dawn grinned up at me, teetering on her tiptoes, her hand pressed against my chest for balance.

Gods, it seemed like a month ago she’d first showed me to my room and promised to make me bangable. And it had only been a week since I’d returned to Mystic Cove. Only a week in and already, I was totally conflicted. Worse, I hadn’t even gotten laid. Wasn’t that the whole point of this show? To have some fun and forget about getting my heart broken? Instead, I was already going down the same path.

“What’s wrong?” Dawn’s hand slid up to my cheek. Her twinkling silver irises met mine, and she leaned closer.

Even with platform sandals and on her tiptoes, she barely reached my chin. So how were her lips just inches from mine? She pressed her slender form against me, and heat raced below my belt.

Oh, shit. What was wrong? Everything.

The silence stretched for an impossibly long moment before her lips found mine. Her tongue moved tentatively slipping between my teeth. Fuck, she tasted like cotton candy. My hand twisted into the back of her hair, fisting the light pink strands as I deepened the kiss.

A growl vibrated my chest, and my tiger took over. I cupped her ass, lifting her off the floor and her legs easily wound around my waist. In a few long strides, I had her on the bed and pinned against the mattress.

“Mmm, Deacon,” she groaned.

This is wrong. So wrong. A voice in the back of my head yelled at me, but my hardening dick told it to shut the hell up. Realms, I needed this.

I slid my hand beneath her top and palmed her breast, eliciting another sexy moan from the cute fairy’s lips. My hips rocked against her, my erection finding her center through our clothes. I was so hard it hurt.

With all the chaos, I hadn’t had a second to satiate my physical needs. And damn, I was hard up. Dawn’s hands snuck between us, her fingers tugging at the button of my slacks.

“Dawn…” I growled as she cupped my cock.

She cut off my grumblings with her mouth, her tongue tangling with mine. Her hand slid beneath my pants, then into the slit of my boxer briefs. Warm fingers closed around me, and I let out a hiss. Her hand began to move up and down, and my hips rocked against her palm, desperate for the friction.

“Dawn, we can’t…” I muttered.

Her eyes lifted to mine, pupils blown out with desire. “But I want this. Don’t you?”

“Fuck, yes,” I groaned as she pumped me harder.

“I want all of you,” she whispered against my lips.

Her words were like a bucket of ice water to the burning embers in my core. My eyes snapped open, and I forced my mouth from hers.

“What’s wrong?” she squeaked.

“I—I can’t do this.” I sat up, kneeling across her lap, my tented crotch between us.

“Why not? I’m not asking for anything more than this moment. I know you’re on this show and what that means, but—”

I pressed my finger to her lips, cutting her off. “You might not be asking for more, but my tiger is insanely protective and jealous and territorial. I do care about you, Dawn. I’m a tiger alpha, and I can’t just sleep with women I care for. A bond will form, and my tiger will go nuts. I have to be careful.” I palmed the back of my neck trying to figure out how to put this. Faeries didn’t understand how things worked with shifters. They didn’t have mates, didn’t understand our animal nature. “If I had no feelings for you, it would be easy. Then it could just be a fun quickie.”

She smirked, chewing on her lower lip. “So you’re saying you don’t want to do this because you like me?”

“Yes!”

Her smile widened and damn, I felt like such an ass. I shouldn’t have ever let it get this far. For either of us. She sat up, crossing her legs as she watched me button up my pants.

“Dawn, I’d never want to be the reason you got in trouble with Shep. You know how strict they are with the rules.”

She slid to the edge of the mattress and fiddled with her fingers.

“What if we’d gotten caught on camera?”

“I kind of took care of that.” She kept her head down as she spoke.

“What?”

Her cheeks burned a deep rosy hue. “Before I came in today, I had the camera guy turn off the feed from this room.”

My jaw dropped, and I was sure I’d have to scrape it off the floor. She’d planned this? A part of me was shocked, but the other part was ridiculously flattered. She’d come in here with every intention of seducing me. A chuckle vibrated in my throat.

“What’s so funny?” She leapt up and swatted at me.

I shook my head and released a breath. “Nothing. I’m flattered really. And for the first time since hearing about this upcoming elimination, I’d forgotten all about it.”

“Then my job is done.” She pressed a quick kiss to my cheek and sauntered toward the door. Her hand closed on the knob, and she paused.

“You were really just trying to distract me?” I called out.

Dawn canted her head over her shoulder and smiled, but it didn’t quite reach her eyes. “Of course, D. That’s what friends are for, right?” She strolled out, slamming the door behind her. The moment she was gone, the dread returned a hundred-fold.

22

LET THE SHOW BEGIN!

Slade

Walking down the quiet corridor, I wiped my sweaty palms against the sleek black slacks Dawny had forced me into an hour ago. She’d been oddly twitchy as she hurried me to get ready. As if she had somewhere better to go. That pixie’s infatuation with the tiger tool was grating on my nerves.

Don’t be jealous. A dark voice slithered through my mind. I was jealous. Deacon was exactly the man I longed to be. Too bad I’d been born to be a demon dark lord instead. As much as I hated the drama of Hitched, anything was better than being forced to govern the monsters of the fourth realm of the Underworld.

Maybe if I had a demon dark lady things would be different…

Shaking out the stupid thoughts, I quickened my pace. The sooner we got this elimination over with, the better. I turned the corner and found a familiar face pacing in front of the double doors.

“There you are,” Deacon grumbled.

My nostrils flared at an enticing scent. I stalked closer, a grin pulling at my lips. The tiger looked oddly disheveled, his perfect hair sticking up in the back. “You naughty boy.”

“What?” His cheeks flamed, eyes widening.

“You were getting down and dirty before the elimination?”

“I was not,” he hissed. “And keep your voice down.”

A chuckle slipped through my clenched jaw. “Hades, I never thought I’d see the day. Who was the lucky lady?”

“I’m not talking about this with you.”

“Why not? It’s only fair. You know all my dirty little secrets.”

“Everyone knows your dirty secrets because you flaunt them for all to see.”

I slid my hands into my pockets and rocked on my heels. “Fair enough.” I watched him for another minute as he fidgeted. “You’re really not going to tell me who you had sex with?”

“We didn’t have sex!”

“But you were close?” I cocked a brow. The scent was unmistakable.

His head dipped, eyes chasing to the gleaming tile.

“So why didn’t you?”

“It was just wrong.” He ticked his head at the closed doors. “Especially right now. She could get in major t—”

My mind whizzed back to my earlier encounter with a certain twitchy, winged stylist. “Oh, Deac, you didn’t…”

He clenched his jaw, brows furrowed, and a pained expression on his face.

“Dawny?” I whisper-hissed.

“I didn’t—I couldn’t go through with it.”

“Thank the gods for that.” I raked my hands over my face.

“It’s not just sex, I—”

“No, no, no. Don’t you dare, Deac. Do not even say the words out loud.”

He huffed out a breath and dragged his hands through his ruffled mane.

“You know, she wouldn’t be the only one to get in trouble. You could too. You know how adamant the producers are about fraternization with the crew. And damn you, Deacon, if you left me here alone, I’d never forgive you.”

He snorted on a laugh, and the tense set of his shoulders loosened a fraction. “Yeah, because this is all about you, Slade.”

I slapped him on the shoulder and turned toward the door. “Get it together, tiger. The ladies are waiting. And don’t ever do something so stupid again.”

“I won’t,” he grumbled.

Somehow, I didn’t believe him. I’d seen the way he looked at the faery, and it was obvious she was infatuated with him. This was not going to turn out well. I had to find a way to get her out of the picture. Later. I’d figure it all out after we survived the elimination.

Closing both hands around the double doors, I wrenched them open. A wave of frosty air slammed into me, before the brilliant spotlight crawled up my dark suit. “It’s showtime,” I muttered.

Deacon nodded and by the time the bright light revealed his face, the tiger was all smiles. The roar of applause filled the room as the bachelorettes clapped and whistled. Realms, and I thought the males had been bad last season. We marched down the red carpet, dozens of rose pedals strewn across the gleaming parquet perfuming our path.

In the center of the ballroom, the familiar tiered platform had been set up with four ladies on each level. Each of the contestants glimmered in gowns of every color of the rainbow. I loved women, loved how they made me feel, how they tasted. Eliminating them, even one or two just seemed wrong.

My shoulders drooped as I marched toward our host. Methyss stood in the middle of the room beside a long table covered by a black tarp. I wondered what sort of creature would be delivering the dreaded pins this year. As I stepped closer, Methyss’ white tuxedo practically blinded me, all aglow beneath the vibrant stage lights. He tipped his top hat as we approached and offered a mega-watt smile.

“Gentlemen, so lovely for you to finally join us.”

I guess Deacon’s little bedroom romp and our resulting discussion had delayed us more than I’d thought.

“Thrilled to be here,” I gritted out.

“A pleasure as always, Methyss.” Deacon flashed our emcee an exaggerated toothy smile.

“Now, let’s get down to business, gentlemen, shall we?”

We both nodded as our host blathered on about the rules. As he continued his spiel, I hazarded a quick glance at the ladies. Harper, Rose, Everly, Crystal. They all looked good enough to eat. I smirked at my own joke, anything to settle the nerves. I quickly bypassed those I’d already mentally eliminated and returned my gaze to my folded hands. I hated that we had to face them after the fact. It would be so much easier if they were simply sent home behind the scenes. But then where would the drama be? And we all knew the producers had to have their drama. Would one of these girls try to hex us? Women were vindictive little things, and there had to be a witch in here somewhere…

Methyss’s voice drew me from my rambling thoughts. “Now, I know all of you, as well as our TV audience, have watched all the seasons of Hitched, but just in case you need a refresher, let’s go over the rules.” He paused and pointed at the array of pins sitting on the edge of a long table. “The gold pins with the infinity symbol are for your favorite bachelorettes, while the silver cupid ones are for the women that have at least piqued your interest. And lastly, the black pins with the skull and crossbones are for the unlucky females who will be leaving on the first portal out of Mystic Cove.”

I smiled and nodded, pretending I’d been listening all along. Then Methyss moved to the table and yanked off the dark cover. Two gilded cages appeared, one of the avian variety and the other a large wired rectangular enclosure.

“Oh, great,” Deacon muttered beside me.

A small, winged creature about the size of a fruit bat fluttered around the bird cage. “What the hell is that?”

Methyss preened like a goddess damned peacock. “Why, I’m glad you asked, my dear dark lord. Are you not familiar with bearded balla demons? I do believe there are some that reside in your very realm.”

I leaned closer and could just make out beady little eyes and a long white beard on its hairy face. His body was humanlike while his wings resembled those of a bat, thinly stretched skin across tiny bones.

“Hello, my dark lord,” he squeaked.

I jumped back, my heart leaping up my throat. “Son of a demon,” I growled.

Deacon let out a deep chuckle beside me, and I slanted him a glare. “Aw, he’s so cute, Slade.”

“Shut up.”

I turned back to Methyss. “Does it have a name?”

The little creature flapped its wings and flew in a tight circle inside the enclosure. “My name’s Bally,” it chirped.

“It is a he,” Methyss added.

“Wonderful.” I watched him flutter around the cage, a tiny grin curling his lips.

Methyss stepped beside Deacon and joined him in front of the other gilded pen. This one was larger than Bally’s and a hollowed-out log sat in the center. Something red and furry peeked from the opening.

A pair of green eyes peered out of the hiding spot, and then a fuzzy head, body and long tail.

A chorus of awws rang out from the platform. Of course.

“A cat? I get a crazy flying demon and Deacon gets a sweet pussy?”

The orange feline bared its teeth and hissed. Deacon eyed the animal, the crease between his brows deepening. “Is it a demon cat?”

“There’s no such thing as a demon cat,” I snapped.

Methyss chuckled. “No sir, just your ordinary, house cat from the human world.”

“Then how is it going to deliver the pins?”

“Perhaps ordinary was a stretch. He’s a cat actor. Garfield has starred in numerous films, including that of his namesake, and is quite talented. He obeys multiple commands.”

Deacon rolled his eyes. “This is going to be interesting.”

Methyss clapped his hands and bounced up and down. “It is. It really is! And now, if everyone’s ready and without further ado, let the show begin!”

23

AN EASY CHOICE

Deacon

“Now, ladies,” Methyss crooned as he took center stage, “you must all be curious as to how the eliminations will proceed with two bachelors. Firstly, I will mention the producers have the right to change their methods at any point in the game, and likely will, but for this first round, the handsome bachelors were asked to each choose two ladies to send home. They were not asked to come up with a mutual decision, nor were they specifically requested to divide you into groups of their preference. That may change in future rounds.”

A wave of groans rolled across the platform of bachelorettes.

“You’re up first, Deacon. Please choose the four ladies you’d like to remain and the two you’ve chosen to send home.”

I shot Slade a look from the corner of my eye. We’d never decided who we’d pick to stay individually. Did it really matter? My hand shot up, fingers twitching.

“Do you have a question, sir?” Methyss’s wild orange brows drew together.

“Does it matter which four women I choose to stay as long as eight remain all together?”

“The four you choose will be on your next group date, but beyond that, no.”

I nodded. Awesome.

“Wait, that’s not fair,” Slade barked. “Then why does he get to go first? He’ll choose his favorites, and I’ll be stuck with the leftovers.”

A few gasps ricocheted across the line of ladies.

“Sorry,” Slade blurted, turning to the females. “That didn’t come out quite right.” He inched closer to Methyss and whispered, “Wouldn’t it be more equitable if we alternated?”

“Hmm.” Our host rubbed at his clean-shaven chin. Then he glanced over the line of cameras into the dark circle beyond.

I squinted to make out Shep or Dax in the darkness, but with the glaring lights I couldn’t make out a thing.

“Yes, yes, that’s a fine idea,” he finally answered. Turning to me, he signaled at the chubby cat stalking across its cage. “You will still go first, Deacon. Then Slade will have a turn. You must not only alternate turns but also eliminations. You can’t simply pick all your favorites and leave the others for the end. Understand?”

Slade and I both nodded.

“Ladies, if you are chosen by Deacon, stand along the left wall, and by Slade, the right. If you are eliminated, say your goodbyes and exit through the main door over there.”

This was going to be a complete cluster. I had to come up with a strategy quick. I slowly stepped toward Garfield, and the cat let out a lazy meow as I approached. I unlatched the cage door, and the creature slunk out, rubbing his tail against the outside of the enclosure. I steered him toward the array of pins between the two cages.

He eyed the balla demon, tail twitching and licked his lips. The little demon let out a squeal and flapped nervously around the cage.

“Garfield, focus!” The cat stared at me wide-eyed. “The pins, please.” Shockingly, he returned his attention to the array of gold, silver and black trinkets.

There was one woman I just had to get to know better. I bent down and whispered her name in the cat’s ear, feeling incredibly ridiculous. The cat gazed up at me and meowed again.

“It’s not working.”

Methyss crossed the stage and stood by my side. “I believe you forgot to tell him which pin you wanted.”

“Oh, right.” I patted Garfield on the head and leaned in again. “Gold infinity pin,” I whispered, then pointed for good measure. The cat padded across the table and picked up the gilded trinket, then jumped to the floor and sauntered toward the ladies.

All eyes were on the orange feline as he picked his way through the contestants to the top level. Pausing in front of Rose, he lifted his head and offered the pin clenched between his sharp little teeth. Her eyes met mine from across the way, and her lips parted into a beaming smile. My heart stuttered before picking up the beat once again. As she marched toward me, a hint of guilt prickled at my insides. Less than an hour ago, I was seconds away from claiming Dawn in my bed.

Shit, this show was so screwed up.

Swallowing down the remorse, I forced a smile to my face. It’s just a game. It’s just a game.

Rose paused in front of me, grinning, and a light blush flushing her cheeks. “Thanks so much for picking me, even after everything.”

I shook my head and gave her what I hoped was a reassuring smile. “It’s already forgotten. I’m just glad you’re here.”

She handed me the golden pin. “Could you put it on me?”

“Of course.” Hands shaking, I somehow managed to fasten the pin to her sequined dress without stabbing her. “You look beautiful, by the way.”

She beamed beneath the flickering candlelight. “You look very handsome too.” She leaned in and brushed her lips against my cheek. As she pulled back, her nostrils flared, and her dark brows bunched.

Shit. I hadn’t had a chance to shower after hooking up with Dawn. Could she smell the faery on me? Worse, did she recognize her scent?

I cleared my throat and squeezed her hands, holding her out to arm’s length. “I’ll see you at the afterparty?”

Her head dipped, and she scooted off to the left side of the ballroom.

Gods, I was so stupid. Why didn’t I think to shower? Most supernaturals had enhanced senses. As I continued to mentally chastise myself, Slade knocked into my side. “My turn, tiger.”

“Have at it.” I stepped to the side, waiting beside Garfield who’d returned to the table and was busy licking his light auburn fur.

I was so busy watching the strange feline, I jumped at the sound of Harper’s squeal. She bounded down the platform and leapt into Slade’s arms. Her cheeks were bright pink, matching the hue of her dress, and she couldn’t stop giggling. Well, damn, that was a surprise. Harper for the demon’s first pick?

Slade spun her in a circle, and I could’ve sworn my friend actually had a genuine smile plastered on his face too. He finally released her, and she sauntered to the opposite wall. From the corner of my eye, I caught Rose and Harper exchanging a glance. Rose smiled at her friend as Harper shot her a thumbs up, but somehow it didn’t quite reach her expressive dark eyes.

My gaze darted between Slade and Rose, and the way they didn’t look at each other. Something twisted in my gut.

“And now an elimination, Deacon.” Methyss’s voice drew me from my musings, and I turned my gaze to the remaining ten women.

I hated this part. Turning to Garfield, I whispered Aurelia’s name and the dreaded words, and the cat went right for the skull and cross bones. Once my feline friend reached the bachelorette, the redhead’s smile fell.

“Sorry,” I mouthed. It was lame, but I had nothing else. Besides the fact that she’d given Slade a blow job in the middle of the fantasy ball, I’d just never gotten a chance to get to know her.

She stomped across the stage, not bothering to stop and say goodbye. Which was easier, honestly. As she moved, a banner flickered to life over her head with the word witch stamped across.

Oh shit, we were definitely getting cursed now. As soon as the door slammed shut behind her, I heaved out a breath. “Your turn, demon douche lord,” I whispered to my friend and stepped to the side once more.

Slade shook his head, a smile twitching at his lips, and turned to the little bearded balla. He whispered into its cage, and the tiny demon took off. Holding the skull and crossbones between his small hands, he darted across the room. From the corner of my eye, I caught Garfield watching him intently.

This was not going to turn out well.

The flying demon paused between Yzabella and Chance, and my heart stopped beating. What if Slade had changed his mind? What if he sent Chance home? I hadn’t seen the sweet unipeg shifter much lately, but I’d felt a connection from the start. “Come on,” I gritted out as the little Underworlder fluttered in the air.

He finally dropped the pin right into Yzabella’s hands. The petite Asian beauty glared at Slade, then me. Her fangs slid out, and a few of the girls gasped. The glowing banner appeared over her head with the word vampire as she made her way down the steps.

I exchanged a quick look with Slade. Had he known? It was probably for the best, after the war last year, vampires and tigers still weren’t exactly on the best terms.

She vamp-sped up to Slade and muttered a string of words in Mandarin I couldn’t make out, then darted out the door. Two eliminations down, two more to go.

At least, it was my turn to pick someone to stay again. And after my unexpected reaction a second ago, it was an easy choice.

Garfield raced across the stage and delivered the gilded pin. A second later, Chance was trotting toward me. Her rainbow dreadlocks were pulled back into a neat pile atop her head, accentuating her long, graceful neck. Was it weird I wanted to ride her unipeg? My dick twitched at the thought.

“Thanks for picking me,” she said before pressing a quick kiss to my cheek. “I didn’t get a chance to talk to you much this week.”

“I know. I’m sorry about that. Things have been kind of crazy.” I ran my hand through my hair and released a breath.

“Right, I totally get it. Twelve girls and all.”

“Only eight after tonight.”

Her smile faltered. “Glad I made the cut.”

“There was never a doubt.” I cupped her cheek, running my thumb over her soft skin. “We’ll talk tonight.”

She nodded, her smile returning in full force, and she scampered off to stand beside Rose. So far, the next date was looking pretty good.

Slade moved to center stage and whispered to his caged friend. Then the little critter’s wings flapped furiously, and he picked up an infinity pin before flitting toward the platform. Hmm, another gold? Who else did the demon have his eye on?

The bearded balla stopped in front of Arista and dropped the pin into her outstretched hands. The blue-haired beauty barreled through the other ladies and rushed to greet Slade. Wrapping her arms around his neck, she captured his lips, pressing her body to his.

Damn. The sexual energy in the room ratcheted up so high, even I could taste it.

When he finally pried her arms off, they exchanged a few words I couldn’t quite make out and she scampered off to join a scowling Harper. I couldn’t help but wonder if Slade was just looking for a sure thing now that Aurelia was gone, and Arista had made it blatantly clear she was here for a good time.

Methyss’s hand landed on my shoulder, dispelling my thoughts. “Each of you may choose another contestant to stay before we move to the last two eliminations.”

Here we go…

24

WHO’S NEXT?

Slade

Crystal raced down the platform when that silly pussy cat dropped the fat little cupid pin into her hands. I had no idea Deacon was interested in the girl. Next time, we’d have to discuss not only our eliminations but also our favorites in case the producers threw us another curve ball. I glanced over at Deacon’s side of the room as he and Crystal exchanged a few words.

Rose’s eye caught mine, and she quickly averted her gaze. It was the second time it had happened. I was definitely not imagining it. She was looking at me. But why?

Burying the ridiculous thoughts in the far corners of my mind, I focused on my next pick. Besides Harper and Arista, there was one other lady I was curious about. And who I owed a debt of gratitude.

The tiny balla demon stared up at me, eyes wide. “Who’s next, dark lord?”

“The angel, Everly, give her that little silver cupid. She probably likes things with wings, right?”

Bally smiled, his own wings fluttering like mad. “Great choice, my lord.”

The little creature sailed across the room and landed in front of the curvy Nephilim. The girl was gorgeous with luscious blonde curls, plump lips and eyes that rivaled the deep blues of the Manta Sea. There was something so womanly about her with those full breasts and curvaceous hips and ass. Mmm. Maybe it was the whole angel thing too… nothing more enticing than a demon corrupting a pure angel. Or Nephilim, whatever.

Everly’s eyes lit up, the blue sparkling beneath the bright stage lights. She slowly moved down the platform, her cheeks growing rosier with each step. When she finally reached me, she just stood and stared.

“Everly, are you okay?” I finally asked a long minute later.

“Um, yes, sorry. I’m, I’m just so nervous.” She tangled her fingers, twisting them into knots.

“You have nothing to be nervous about…”

“Yes, okay, right.” Her head dipped.

“I realized I’d never thanked you the other day for what you did for Harper.”

“Oh.” Her nervous smile curved into a frown. “So that’s why you picked me?”

“Yes—no, no.” I dragged my hand through my wild hair, her nerves apparently contagious. “Now you’re making me nervous, Everly.” I attempted a reassuring smile. “I picked you for multiple reasons. Yes, to thank you, but also because you’re extremely beautiful, and I’d like to get to know you better.”

“Really?”

“Yes, really.”

“But all these women are gorgeous.”

“That is true.” I gently pressed my palm to her chest. “But I have a feeling you’re even more divine on the inside, and after the past few months in the Underworld, I need that.”

Her lips parted into a truly genuine smile, and a light I was certain wasn’t there a moment ago, illuminated her face. “Thank you, Slade.” She squeezed my hand before spinning on her heel and joining the other contestants along my side of the ballroom.

“Well, wasn’t that just splendid?” Methyss clapped his hands and took his spot in the middle of the chamber. “I hate to say it, but it’s time for another elimination from each of the bachelors.”

Muffled groans swam across the room. Only four ladies remained standing on the dais and two would go home. Iris, Roxy, Vesla and Electra. I’d made my decision, but would Deacon stick to his?

I was starting to think this two bachelor thing was more trouble than it was worth.

“Deacon, please step up and make your selection for the next lady departing Mystic Cove.”

The tiger trudged by me and whispered to the cat. Demon cats? Was Deacon really that clueless about the Underworld? I let out an irritated grunt. I watched as the animal darted across the stage and stopped in front of Electra.

My gut twisted as her eyes found mine. Of all the women, why did Deacon have to choose her? She marched off the stage, but instead of saying goodbye to Deacon, she strode straight toward me. Her arms encircled my neck, and her lips crashed into mine. For an instant, it was like I was kissing Aspen again. A growl reverberated in my throat as I deepened the kiss, spearing the blonde hair at the back of her neck with my fingers. Aspen. She even smelled like her. I blinked quickly and the familiar blue orbs flashing across my mind dissipated, returning to Electra’s brown. She finally released me, eyes still fixed to mine. “It’s a shame things didn’t work out with us, my lord.” She dipped into a bow and that banner appeared over her head. Memica Demon.

Damn, I’d never seen a demon that looked like that before. How many freaking Underworlders were there?

“I’m sorry, Miss Electra,” Methyss crooned, “but it’s time for you to leave.”

“Sure thing.” She waggled her fingers at me, then sauntered toward the door, brushing by Arista on her way out.

“Ow!” the blue-haired bachelorette squealed and dropped to the floor.

Gasps echoed around the room.

My heart leapt up my throat, my feet moving before my brain processed what was happening. Electra hovered over Arista, both hands cupping her face. I sank down to the floor beside them, and Deacon raced over a second later.

“What the hell happened?” he barked.

“Nothing, I have no idea.” Electra raised her hands innocently.

A circle of bachelorettes had formed around us, quiet murmurs filling the tense moment. Deacon’s fingers encircled the girl’s wrist, and he gave me a relieved nod.

Thank the gods the girl still has a pulse.

I leaned in closer and gently slapped Arista’s cheek. “Come on, Arista, come back to us.”

An excruciatingly long moment later, her lids fluttered, and she let out a faint exhale. Slowly, her eyes opened, then focused on the female behind me. “She shocked me…” she muttered.

“Sorry, sweetheart.” Electra shot her a smile. “It was an accident, damned static electricity.”

“Are you all right?” Deacon asked.

Arista nodded and sat up. “Yeah, I just felt dizzy for a second.” She rubbed her temples, then a smile returned to her face. “I’m fine.”

“Well, then, on that note, ta-ta bitches.” Electra marched out, head held high and hips swinging.

The doors closed, and I stared after her for an endless moment. It wasn’t anywhere near the pain I’d had to bear when Aspen chose someone else, but it still hurt like hell. Even with the momentary chaos.

Deacon shot me an anxious glance, but I shrugged him off. Everyone was fine.

“And now it’s your choice, dark lord Slade.” Methyss appeared behind me, and I nearly jumped out of my skin.

“Can you at least give us a minute?” I barked.

Arista still sat on the floor with the rest of the girls encircling her.

Methyss clapped his hands, and everyone dispersed to their respective positions. “Go ahead now, dark lord.”

Ugh. It felt like I’d already been forced to send three women home today.

“Who are you eliminating next, my lord?” Bally fluttered around impatiently.

“Give me a second.” I drew in a breath and reminded my stupid heart the woman that just left was not Aspen. Wasn’t even close. “Vesla,” I muttered. “There are enough demons around here.”

With a quick nod, he flitted across the room to the remaining girls. Vesla muttered a curse as she stared at the pin mid-air. “Really, Slade?” she hissed.

“I’m sorry. There’s only so much sexual energy to go around.” I tossed her a smirk.

“Ass.”

“That’s dark lord ass to you.”

She shook her head as she marched by, and the gleaming banner appeared overhead. Succubus-Wolf.

“What?” I growled, my eyes swiveling to Deacon. “Did you know she was half wolf?”

He shook his head. “No idea.”

“Too late now, suckers.” Vesla stomped out of the ballroom, and a twinge of guilt pierced my chest.

Not Aspen. I reminded myself again. Just because the girl was part wolf didn’t mean she would be anything like her.

After the door slammed shut, I glanced up at the two remaining women: Iris and Roxy. Which would Deacon pick and which would I get by default for our next date? To be honest, besides the differing hair color, I could barely tell the half-sisters apart. I supposed I should try to get to know them better in the next round.

Deacon stepped forward and leaned down, murmuring his choice to the fat feline. My money was on Iris. Roxy seemed feistier, and the tiger usually went for the safer bet.

The cat sauntered across the stage and delivered the silver cupid pin to Iris. Winner, winner, chicken dinner. Too bad I hadn’t actually bet anyone. The girl bounded down the stage and chattered along happily as Deacon rocked on his heels.

Which left me with Roxy.

I swung my gaze around to Methyss. “Do I really have to do the whole pin thing?”

“Yes, sir. That is the protocol as you well know.”

With a growl, I ticked my head at Bally the demon and the cupid pin. “Go get the girl, little guy.”

“Yes, my lord, of course.” He zipped across the room and delivered the silver trinket.

Roxy sashayed over, her emerald dress bringing out her lively green eyes. “I’m going to try not to take this personally.” She smirked. I must have looked confused because she continued. “That you chose me last?”

“Oh, right. No, please don’t. The truth is I simply haven’t gotten a chance to get to know you yet.”

“I’d like to remedy that immediately.” Her hand moved to my chest and her finger slid between the buttons of my shirt. She rose to her tiptoes, and her warm breath skated over the shell of my ear. “Meet me in the bathroom outside the ballroom as soon as this is over?”

I hardened almost immediately. Damn, it had been too long. I was hungry. “As you wish,” I blurted.

She shot me a wink over her shoulder and sauntered toward the other girls. I glanced down at my tented crotch and cursed. Ugly demons. Stupid underworld. Damned Lucifer. Anything to stifle this erection.

Methyss clapped his hands again, a wild laugh ringing out in the quiet ballroom. “There’s just one more important part that remains, ladies and gentlemen.” He glanced between Deacon and me and the two lines of women. “Why the great reveal, of course!”

The lights flickered off, and a thick silence pervaded across the room. A spotlight burned to life, settling over the spot where Rose had stood seconds ago. In her place stood a massive golden dragon. All the air caught in my lungs as I took in her radiant scales, powerful wings, and blazing amber irises. Fuck… she was breathtaking.

The light blinked off and moved to the next woman. No, a unipeg. In the place of Chance stood a beautiful white unipeg with a rainbow mane. Then beside her stood Crystal, in her typical Crystal form. Human, the scrolling words flashed over her head. Not a huge surprise there. And finally, Iris. Still in her fairly human form but with pointy little ears and ivy crawling up her arms. Fae, the glittery words read overhead. Spring faery by the looks of it.

The spotlight edged across the room, darting over me, before settling on the women behind me. Harper, human. She wiggled her fingers at me from beneath the glaring spotlight, and I couldn’t help but smile. I knew it. She was too sweet and naïve to be a supe. Next came Arista, siren-mermaid, her brilliant blue tail a perfect match to her cascading locks. Also nailed that one. I wondered which overgrown royal fish she was betrothed to from the Ocean Realm, and would they kill me if I bedded her? Because she was looking pretty tasty right about now.

The spotlight moved to Everly, who stood in all her angelic splendor, magnificent white wings spread across her shoulders. She gave me a shy smile as Nephilim appeared over her head. Then onto my final pick. Roxy no longer stood in human form, instead a cute red fox crept along the wall. Well, that was a surprise. How the hades were a faery and a fox shifter related? There must be more to this story… And I hoped to find out soon.

Another round of clapping jerked my attention to our flamboyant emcee. Deacon moved beside me, nudging me in the shoulder. “Rose was a surprise, huh?”

“Hmm? Oh, I hadn’t paid much attention.” I dug my hands into my pockets and kept my gaze trained on Methyss.

“You didn’t notice the thirty-foot dragon in the middle of the ballroom?”

I eyed the golden beast from my peripheral vision. “Oh, yes, that one.”

Deacon chuckled. “You’re incredible, Slade.”

“Thank you.”

“All right, ladies and gentlemen, now that all the drama has come to an end—for now—you’re all free to enjoy the evening.” Methyss snapped his fingers, and the walls fell away.

Deacon and I and the remaining bachelorettes stood along the veranda of the pool deck at the bottom of the cliff. The pool had vanished, replaced by a dancefloor and a DJ tucked away in the corner. Glittering stars filled the night sky with the gentle crashing of waves along the beach lending to the peaceful backdrop.

The ladies encircled us as the music filled the air. Squeezing my eyes closed, I shoved away all the anxiety from earlier and let my body move to the quickening beat.

“Don’t you dare fall asleep on me, Slade.” Harper’s soft voice snapped my eyes open. “The night’s just getting started.” Her hips began to sway, and she threw her hands up to the rhythm.

I couldn’t help but dance along with the sweet human, her enthusiasm contagious.

A body pressed up against my back, and a warm breath ghosted over the back of my neck. “First floor bathroom just to the right of the stairs.”

I canted my head over my shoulder just in time to see Roxy sauntering through the glass sliding doors toward the elevator up. Shit.

“Slade, are you going back inside already?” Harper must have caught me staring.

My mouth opened, but no response came out. My gaze darted back and forth between the two women. Roxy or Harper?

25

HOOK UPS AND SCREW UPS

Slade

My hardening cock pointed toward the door Roxy had slipped through, but a pang of guilt stabbed at my heart. The body part I should be listening to, right? But I couldn’t just not show up and leave Roxy hanging either. That would also be a dick move.

I whirled around to Harper and tossed her a smile. “I forgot something inside. I’ll be right back.”

Deacon eyed me as the remaining women encircled him. “Don’t leave me alone for too long.”

“Please, enjoy the attention while I’m gone.” I shot him a wink and my trademark smirk before darting toward the sliding doors. I slipped inside the quiet foyer and jabbed my finger at the elevator button. The ride up was grueling. When the doors finally opened, I slipped through the great room and around the staircase. Where is that bathroom?

Turning the corner, I nearly barreled into a familiar form. My hands closed around a slender waist in an attempt to steady the girl. Arista glanced up at me, and pale blue orbs met mine, a swirl of black streaking through the crystal-clear aqua. She blinked, and the darkness dissipated. Hmm. Weird.

“Sorry,” she mumbled.

I released her and took a step back. “No, I apologize. I didn’t realize mermaids were so stealthy.”

She pointed at her bare feet. “No shoes.”

“Ah, now I get it.” A prickle of unease stirred between us, but for the life of me I couldn’t quite figure it out. I must have been nervous about finding Roxy and getting back out to the party. “Anyway, you may want to get your shoes. Deacon’s out there attempting to dance, and you wouldn’t want to get stepped on by one of those unwieldy paws.”

She giggled, bright blue eyes now clear and as vibrant as her hair. Had I imagined it? “You’re right. I better go run upstairs and get my heels.”

I nodded as she slipped past me. “See you there shortly,” I called out.

As soon as her footsteps fell away, I resumed my search for Roxy and the dreaded bathroom. What was wrong with me? I was going to meet a beautiful woman in the ladies’ room, and I was fearing the encounter?

A door swung open, and Roxy peered through the opening. Her light auburn hair had been removed from the restrictive updo and cascaded down her bare shoulders. “Hey,” she murmured. “I was starting to think you’d changed your mind.” Her hand reached for mine, and she tugged me into the bathroom.

I urged my lips to move, but not a single logical excuse came to mind. Why wouldn’t I hook up with this willing girl? I’m a demon who feeds on sexual pleasure after all. Why deny myself a meal? It doesn’t have to mean anything…

Roxy closed the door behind us, and the click of the lock went straight to my dick. He stood at attention as foxy Roxy backed me against the solid timber. “Hi,” she said again.

“Hi,” I echoed.

And we both just stood there for an interminably long moment. My conscience grew with every passing second.

Clearing my throat, I forced out the words. “I actually came to tell you I couldn’t do this right now.”

“Oh?” She exhaled a breath of relief and stepped back, unpinning me from the door.

“Wait, are you relieved I’m not taking you up on your offer?”

A nervous laugh snuck through her pressed lips. “It’s silly. My sister and I had made a bet about who would hook up first. It seemed like a good idea at the time, but I was kind of starting to feel icky about it.”

“Icky?”

She dragged her hand through her hair. “Sorry, it’s just, I like Deacon, but I thought you’d be a sure thing.”

“Well, shit, you sure know how to kill a boner.”

She laughed. “I’m sorry, Slade. It’s nothing personal. He’s a shifter like me, and I just figured we’d have that in common.”

“And he’s pretty good looking.”

“That too.”

“Well, there’s no point in us hanging out in the bathroom then.” I opened the door and ushered her out. “After you.”

“Ugh, figures.” The familiar voice sent my heart smashing against my ribs.

I peered out from behind the door and met a pair of fiery golden irises. Rose stood with her arms pressed against her chest. “Can’t you restrain yourself for even one party?” Her eyes darted between Roxy and me. “At least you had the decency of hooking up inside the bathroom this time.”

“We didn’t—” Roxy began, but I jabbed my elbow into her side.

“As you say, Rose. I simply cannot control my monstrous demon urges.” I pressed my hand to Roxy’s back and pushed her past the holier-than-thou dragon.

“Why’d you do that?” Roxy asked once we were out of earshot.

I shrugged. “There’s no reason why I can’t help you win the bet with your sister.”

“Are you sure? I don’t want Rose to think—”

“It doesn’t really matter what she thinks. That dragon made up her mind about me before we ever met.”

After a quick elevator ride, we reached the sliding door to the patio, and I paused. Harper and the other contestants danced in a circle around Deacon. Roxy turned to me with a smile. “Well, thanks for that.”

“No problem.”

She stepped through the doorway then turned back. “You’re not coming?”

“I’ll be out in a minute.”

Roxy nodded then spun to join the others. I watched as she slipped into the crowd of girls and made her way toward Deacon. Sometimes, I was so damned jealous of the tiger I could scream. It didn’t matter how I tried to change, tried to be the good guy, I would always just be the slutty incubus demon.

Deacon

What is that sneaky demon doing?

I watched Slade through the glass doors, his somber expression unusual for the typically smirking dark lord. I figured he’d gone for a quickie with Roxy, but that was not the face of a man who’d just gotten some.

“Oh, there’s Slade!” Harper squeezed by me, her gaze intent on the brooding demon in the doorway. Hopefully, she’d be able to coax him back outside. I’d never in a million years imagined Harper and Slade together, but the demon seemed into her.

Opposites attract and all that.

“You’re not dancing, Deacon.”

I lifted my gaze to Chance’s, shaking out the random thoughts. “Sorry, distracted.”

The pretty unipeg shifter followed my line of sight to Slade and Harper. The hint of a smile tugged at the demon’s lips as she chattered on, confirming my earlier musings.

“Harper’s sweet,” said Chance.

“Too sweet for the dark lord, if you asked me.”

She shrugged. “I don’t think he’s as bad as everyone makes him out to be.”

“How very perceptive of you.” I took her hand and spun her in a circle, so she landed with her palms pressed against my chest. “What makes you think that?”

“Well, I watched last season, of course, and I don’t know, I can just feel it here.” She pressed two fingers to her forehead.

“In your mind?”

“No, my horn.” She giggled. “I swear I’m not crazy, but when I’m in unipeg form, I can feel things. Some might call it intuition, but I’ve always felt like it’s more.”

“Very interesting…”

“You think I’m crazy now, don’t you?”

“No, not at all.” I whirled her around again, and another laugh tumbled out. I liked Chance, a lot. The problem was I liked a lot of these women. My thoughts flew back to Dawn, to what we almost did. Shit, I’d been so stupid to nearly let that happen.

My mind churned with images of the cute pixie and all the things I wanted to do to her. I must have stopped dancing again because Chance had moved on and was grinding between Crystal and Everly. Most of the girls danced together, and a ripple of relief slid over me. It was exhausting being the center of attention.

Where was that demon bachelor?

I peered through the sliding doors but neither Slade nor Harper were visible anymore. Instead, Rose appeared through the opening and marched toward me. Brows furrowed, and a murderous look in her eye, she grabbed my hand and yanked me from the semi-circle of bachelorettes.

“What’s going on?” I blurted.

Rose didn’t answer me or stop until we were back in the foyer beside the elevator. Her scowl finally fell away, a smile sliding in its place, but somehow it didn’t quite reach her eyes. “Kiss me.”

Before I could process her words, she shoved me against the wall and captured my lips. My body went on autopilot, mouth opening for her tongue and hands pawing at her perfect form. She tasted like smoky cinnamon, sweet and fiery. My hands traveled the length of her back then settled along the curve of her ass.

I tried not to focus on the fact I’d been touching another woman only a few hours ago. But dammit, I couldn’t stop from comparing the two. This stupid show was so wrong. And what the hell was wrong with me? I had feelings for multiple women already, and that was not the plan.

Rose’s mouth moved from my lips and skimmed down my neck. A growl vibrated my throat as her tongue danced along the sensitive skin by my collarbone. She ran her nose back up my neck and nibbled on my earlobe. “Let’s go up to your room.” Her warm breath sent a wave of goose bumps down my arm.

“My room?” My voice rose a couple octaves as my cock stood at attention.

Her eyes widened, and she jerked back. “Unless you don’t want to?”

I rubbed her shoulders, reveling in her soft skin. “No, it’s not that I don’t want to, I just thought you wanted to take things slow.”

“I changed my mind.”

A hint of guilt crept in, but I shoved it back. This was the nature of the game. Everyone knew what they were getting into when they signed up, right? I’d been perfectly honest with Rose on our solo date. “Okay,” I murmured against her lips.

I slid my hand down her arm, and warm fingers tightened around my palm. I led her into the elevator, and moments later, we were back on the first floor. We hurried across the great room and toward the steps to the upper levels.

As we turned the corner, Rose let out a curse. “You can’t be serious?”

Slade leapt back from a swollen-lipped Harper, hands in the air. Crimson stained the shy bachelorette’s cheeks, but the smile was unmistakable.

“Harper, don’t do it,” Rose shrieked.

“Mind your own business, dragon.” Slade glared at Rose, his expression murderous.

“I won’t stand by while you take advantage of a sweet, innocent girl.”

“Take advantage?” Slade snarled before he erased the distance between them and pinned Rose to the wall. “I’ve been an absolute gentleman with Harper. Ask her yourself.”

“It’s true.” She shrugged, the heat across her cheeks growing. “I was the one that kissed him, actually.”

“You’re obviously manipulating her with your freaky incubus powers.” She shoved at Slade, but he didn’t budge, dark irises fixed to hers.

I stepped between them and slapped my arm across my friend’s chest. “Step back, Slade.”

“No.”

“Do it now, or I’ll have to make you,” I snarled.

He took a step back. “Fuck that, Deacon. I didn’t do anything wrong. Since the moment I met the precious Rose, all she’s done is hurl insults in my direction. They’re all completely unfounded.”

“Unfounded?” she blurted and jabbed her finger into his chest. “So my eyes were deceiving me on the first day when I caught Aurelia sucking you off by the bathroom?”

Harper groaned and leaned against the wall, squeezing her eyes shut.

“You insulted me before that, if you recall?”

“I don’t,” she hissed.

“I believe your exact words were ‘that’s surprisingly decent of you’ when I told you I’d promised Deacon I wouldn’t use my powers. And you’d known me for all of five minutes at that point. You questioned my decency from the very start. And, not to mention the fact that you refused to leave me alone with an unconscious Crystal a few nights later. Like I would take advantage of a woman in her condition? What kind of a monster do you think I am, Rose?”

I stood speechless as the two continued to argue, sparing Harper an occasional glance over the snarling pair. Then it hit me, like a punch in the gut. How had I not seen this sooner? Slade and Rose didn’t hate each other at all… they liked each other.

26

A BEASTLY MISTAKE

Deacon

I darted across the front lawn, my pulse quickening with each step. I kept my eyes trained on my destination, despite the voice in my head telling me what a bad idea this was. After watching Rose and Slade fight-flirt for what felt like an eternity, I’d accompanied the girls back to the party and after downing a bottle of Fae wine, made my escape. I’d lied, telling the bachelorettes I was going to check on Slade since he’d never returned.

Truth was I couldn’t give a fuck about the demon right now.

He totally had feelings for Rose, and he’d been lying about it all week. How had I been so blind? And Rose… my fingers clenched into tight fists. She came to the show for me. She’d admitted as much on our date. So how the hell was she into the demon now?

The squat building at the end of the compound caught my eye, and I paused. The bright pink door on the second floor called to me. A light shone through the window, revealing a petite figure fluttering about the room.

This is a mistake. A huge mistake.

Clenching my jaw, I sprinted the remaining distance and darted up the stairs. Before I could talk myself out of this incredibly stupid idea, I lifted my knuckles to the door. I barely knocked once before it swung right open.

Dawn stood in the crack, her translucent pink wings fluttering nervously. She wore a light pink pajama set, the thin strap of her top falling off her shoulder. My tiger let out an appreciative growl as my gaze raked over her pebbled nipples.

“Deac, what are you doing here?” she whispered-hissed as she tugged up the errant strap. “Is everything okay?”

“I—I—um.” I had nothing. There wasn’t a single logical reason that would bring me to her room at this ungodly hour. So instead, I lunged at her, pressing my mouth to hers and walked her back inside the room.

I half expected her to shove me back or toss me out on my drunk ass. Truth was, I wasn’t really drunk, tipsy at most. But gods, I wanted this. The wine had only loosened my careful restraints.

I dug my hand into the soft hair at the back of her neck and tilted her head to deepen the kiss. The steady thrum of her wings drowned out the sound of my pounding heart. I walked her back toward the bed as I devoured her lips.

The back of her legs hit the mattress, and she folded down. Her eyes were glued to mine, a mix of anxiety and excitement rippling through the molten silver. I crawled over her and lifted her petite form to the top of the bed. “Is this okay?” I muttered between kisses.

She nodded quickly and her slender fingers inched to the waistband of my slacks. I was still wearing the same clothes from our first attempt earlier today. This time, I didn’t want to stop, and I wouldn’t stop her either. She slid my pants down my hips, then freed my erection from my boxers. Her fingers closed around me, and I let out a growl.

Shit, my tiger was not going to make this easy.

I released her lips and braced my arms on either side of her head. She glanced up at me, silver irises sparkling. “Are you sure you want to do this?”

“I already said yes.”

“And you’re okay with—” My lips twisted, uncertain how to say it.

“Yes, Deacon, I know you’re on a dating show. I don’t expect this to be more than just a fun hook up.”

I wanted to believe her, I wanted it to be true so damned badly, and I only hoped my tiger got it.

She lifted her head and claimed my lips again. Gods, she tasted like candy. I ran a free hand down her torso and tugged on her tiny pajama shorts. My dick throbbed when I found her bare beneath.

Releasing her mouth only long enough to drag her top over her head, I lowered myself on top of her.

“I’m on the contraceptive potion,” she whispered as her hand closed around my cock. Her words only made me harder. She pumped her hand up and down, and my hips bucked against her palm.

My mouth moved from her lips, down her neck, to her peaked nipples. I ran my tongue around the pebbled flesh, and she let out a faint moan. Nibbling on the tip, she arched into me as another groan filled the air.

“Oh, Deacon…”

With one hand kneading her breast, I allowed the other to travel down her torso and to the apex of her thighs. She squirmed as I got closer, and fiery heat raced below. I ran a finger across her center, and she bucked in response. Slowly, I circled the taut bundle of nerves. Oh goddess, she feels so good. Dipping one finger inside her, I could barely control myself. I felt like a horny teenager again. Dawn lifted her hips as I moved in and out, her building pleasure heightening my own.

“Deacon,” she groaned. “I want you inside me.” Her hold tightened around my cock, and she pressed the tip to her entrance.

I held still for an endless moment and met her lusty gaze. “You’re sure?”

“Yes,” she moaned. “I’m going to explode in a second.”

Same. But still I waited. Because damn it, I was supposed to be the good guy.

“Deacon…” she murmured again, and the sound of my name on her lips nearly undid me.

I brought my hips back and thrust inside her. It took all my restraint to keep from groaning. She felt so good, and damn, it had been way too long. I rocked against her hips, and we easily fell into rhythm.

Dawn’s fingers clenched my ass, digging into my cheeks as she urged me deeper inside. I moved faster, plunging harder. Closing my eyes, I lost myself in the fiery pleasure.

“Yes, yes, don’t stop.”

I picked up the rhythm, driving her into the mattress. This was what I needed. To get completely lost in the moment and forget about all the other shit. So Rose was into Slade, so what? Squeezing my eyes tight, I focused on the raging heat racing to my cock. To the feel of the woman stretched beneath me.

Before long, the smoldering heat between us reached a crescendo. I thrust again, so close. Again and again.

“I’m going to—” Dawn wriggled beneath me, and her moans filled the air.

It was all I needed. As she tightened around me, pleasure roared through every inch of my body. For an incredible moment, I didn’t think, I didn’t breathe. It was all just fiery sensation. I collapsed on top of her, chest heaving and beads of sweat along my brow.

“That was… unexpected.” Dawn smiled beneath me and cupped my cheek.

I rolled off and settled in beside her, scared to smother her small frame. I propped my chin on my hand and waited, watching her. “Good or bad unexpected?”

“Definitely good.” Her smile grew wider. “Can I ask what made you change your mind?”

“I’m not sure really.” Lie. I paused and chewed on the inside of my cheek, a break to sort out the words in my head. Sure, the alcohol had something to do with it, and the Rose and Slade revelation kind of sucked, but I’d been attracted to the pixie from the start.

“I thought you said your tiger would go all growly…”

I chuckled. “He still might. I guess as an alpha I’ve always been a slave to someone or something, either the pack or my tiger, my duties. I don’t want to bore you with the long, tedious story, but the whole point of coming here was to have some fun. And at some point tonight, I realized I wanted that fun to be with you.”

Her dainty thumb traced my cheek bone, and I leaned into her touch. I had no idea where this was going or if it even could, but for the moment I vowed to simply enjoy it.

Dawn

A steady hum vibrated the air, waking me from a fitful sleep. My heavy lids slowly opened, and my heart catapulted itself up my throat. I leapt off the bed following its lead as my eyes focused on the gigantic orange beast sprawled across the mattress.

The faint rumble reverberated in the sleeping tiger’s barrel chest, and the entire bed trembled from the sound.

Flipping faeries, what had I gotten myself into?

Reaching for my discarded pajama top, I tossed it over my head, keeping one eye on the slumbering beast at all times. How had I not noticed I’d been sleeping with a tiger? I must have been delirious after the third round. I’d been totally joking back then, but this shifter was totally bangable. And damn, was he good at it.

I stood beside the footboard on tiptoes ready to sprint and escape the sharp claws of the huge animal. A part of me wanted to call for Deacon, but what if it only woke the tiger? Growing up in the outskirts of the Fae Summer Court, I’d never had much of a chance to interact with shifters. Or any other supernaturals really. This gig was my ticket out of the Fae realm and my first big break.

And I was about to ruin it. How could I have been so stupid?

The problem was that I really liked Deacon. I’d been obsessed with him on the show last season and then meeting him in person only amplified my crush. I didn’t regret sleeping with him, but I was terrified about what would happen if we got caught. For both of us.

And now I had a five-hundred-pound tiger in my bed.

I paced the length of the mattress, my bare feet silent against the shag carpeting. Think, Dawn, think! I could get Slade. He didn’t seem to have any problems with morally grey decisions. But would he know what to do? And should I risk a trip all the way to the villa? Getting caught with Slade would be no better than this predicament.

My wings fluttered with each step, their beats growing more desperate. Mimi would be so disappointed if I got kicked off the show. My little sister was my biggest fan, and the only one in my entire family of twelve who believed in me. Most pixies in Summer Court spent their lives slaving away for the royal Fae. Becoming a stylist on a TV show was a dream come true.

A faint chuff sent my head spinning over my shoulder. The big tiger’s furry ears twitched. I froze, willing my wings to a standstill. I held my breath as the beast’s lids fluttered.

Beneath hooded lids, a pair of emerald eyes locked on mine, and my heart stopped. The animal flashed me pearly white teeth, and I couldn’t quite tell if it was a terrible effort at a smile or he wanted to eat me.

“Good kitty,” I whispered.

Definitely a smile. Then a strange chuffing sound.

“Deacon? Can you hear me?”

The oversized cat stretched out its front paws and yawned, revealing razor sharp claws. A shudder raced up my spine.

“Can you change back now?” I squeaked.

The tiger smirked. I swear! A long minute later, a golden mist surrounded its massive form, and the striped fur began to recede. By the time I blinked, a fully naked male was stretched across my bed.

I didn’t think I’d ever been happier to see Deacon. I leapt at him and wrapped my arms around his neck. “Your tiger is scary as hades!”

“That’s what I hear.” He yawned again and glanced at the clock on the nightstand. “Why are we up at this hour?”

“Why didn’t you tell me your tiger comes out in your sleep?”

He shrugged, as if I were the crazy one that turned into a beast overnight. “It doesn’t happen often. He must have wanted to meet you.”

A nervous laugh tittered out. “Maybe you should go.”

Deacon’s light brows slammed together, and something like hurt flashed across his expressive irises. He wriggled free of my hold and sat up. “He wouldn’t have hurt you. I told you, he just gets possessive sometimes.”

I shook my head, a hole opening up in my chest. “It’s not that, Deacon. I just think this may have been a mistake.”

“Seriously?” he growled.

I bit my tongue, holding back all the things I wanted to say. How much I cared about him, how amazing the sex had been, how much it killed me to end this before it even started…

“We could both get kicked off the show, and it’s just not worth it for either of us.”

His jaw ticked, and anger flared across those emerald orbs. Thank the gods he was back in human form. He shoved the comforter back and scrambled off the bed.

As he searched the room for his clothes, I chomped down on my lower lip to keep from blurting something completely inappropriate. Like that I was totally falling for him. Which was insane, because I’d only known the man for a week.

With his tux in hand, he stomped toward the door. His hand closed around the handle, and he paused.

“I’m sorry,” I whispered.

He didn’t even look back.

27

THE NICE GUY

Slade – The Night Before

Unfastening the last button of the stifling shirt, I tossed it to the ground and slumped onto the mattress. The entire evening had been exhausting. Even the party. Demons, that Rose drove me up a wall. She was so damned arrogant and conceited with her holier-than-thou smirk. She had to be an alpha’s daughter with an attitude like that. How dare she say I was taking advantage of Harper?

I actually liked the girl, and I’d been on my fucking best behavior the entire time. I had such a tight rein on my powers around her, it was stifling. I could barely breathe I was trying so damned hard. A freaking virgin? Of course, I’d end up liking the one woman on the show with the least sexual experience. Perhaps that’s what drew me to her… Hmm.

On another note, I was fucking thrilled Deacon had chosen Rose first. This way I wouldn’t have to deal with a date with the insufferable she-dragon for a while. I yanked my slacks down, and they fell in a heap on the floor. I’d deal with it tomorrow.

I’d deal with all of it tomorrow. The idea of facing the remaining bachelorettes tonight seemed like hell. Let Deacon enjoy a night to himself with all the ladies. Especially Rose. I lay back on the bed and stared at the ceiling. The hint of a smile curled my lips as I thought about Deacon nearly banging that little faery. He dodged a bullet there. The perfect Rose would never have forgiven him for that one. The gods knew she’d never let me live down the incident with Aurelia.

Sometimes, I went back to the first night and wondered how things would’ve played out if I hadn’t accepted the witch’s offer. It wasn’t like I’d asked her to go down on me, but of course, I hadn’t refused either. What was I, a damned saint? I clenched my hands into fists at my sides and swallowed down the anger.

A round of thundering knocks at my door sent me shooting up off the mattress. What the hell? If Deacon was trying to convince me to return to the party, he had another thing coming. With a curse, I stomped to the entrance and whipped the door open.

Rose swayed in the doorway, gold sequined dress alight beneath the faint light in the hallway. My eyes trailed down her tempting form to the nearly empty bottle of Fae wine clenched between her fingers. Her unfocused gaze raked over me, starting with my mouth then moving down my bare chest, lingering on my abs and dipping to my boxer briefs.

A surge of heat followed in its wake. Shoving down the unwanted wave of lust, I gritted my teeth and pressed my arms across my chest. “I think you’ve got the wrong room, precious. Deacon’s wing is that way.” I pointed down the hall.

She leaned against the doorframe, golden irises blazing. “I came to talk to you,” she slurred. Barreling by me, she marched into my room and flopped down on the bed. Waving the bottle of wine, she continued her earlier verbal assault. “You know, Slade, Harper is an incredible person, and you’re not. She’s sweet and kind, and innocent. And you’re…” Her lip curled.

I stalked closer, gnawing on my lower lip to keep from cursing her to kingdom come.

“She’s not used to all of this.” She flailed her free hand out. “The girls are bad enough and to have to deal with you on top of it all!”

A growl vibrated my throat, but I forced it down, my nails digging into my palms to keep it together.

“She’s not like you, not like us. She’s a human and has no idea what she’s gotten herself into. You know what it’s like on this show. You should just stay away from her all together.” Her blazing irises drilled into mine, a golden flame flickering across the deep amber.

As much as her words carved up my insides, I couldn’t deny she was right. But hades, I’d never admit it to her.

“You’re a demon for realm’s sakes, a sex demon. And she’s a virgin!” She clapped her hand over her mouth as soon as the confession was out, a gasp slipping through her fingers. “Oh gods, Slade, please erase that.” She shot up off the mattress and buried her face in her hands. “Oh shnikes, I was not supposed to tell you that.”

I shook my head, a hint of amusement overcoming the seething anger at the arrogant dragon’s discomfort.

“Oh, my gods, please, Slade.” She pressed her palms to my chest, bloodshot eyes meeting mine. “You didn’t hear that, okay?”

“I didn’t hear you just spill your best friend’s secret?” I narrowed my eyes and tossed her a wicked grin. “Poor Harper. She’d be just devastated if she discovered you told me such a personal detail.”

“No, no, no. This can’t be happening.” Rose buried her head in my chest and dropped the bottle of wine. It spilled across the floor, the deep crimson splattering across the tile. “Shit!” She tried to step out of the way, but the movement was too sudden in the tight dress, and she nearly toppled over.

My arm wrapped around her waist, holding her steady as she flailed. “Calm down. I’ll take care of the spill. Just focus on standing upright.”

She threw me a scowl, lips pursing into an irresistible pout. Gods dammit, why did she have to be so enticing? Why could I clearly picture those lips around my—?

I released her and took a slow step back to make sure she didn’t fall. Shockingly, she remained steady, so I darted into the bathroom and grabbed a roll of paper towels. When I returned, Rose sat cross-legged beside the spill of crimson liquid, fancy gown hiked up to her thighs. She ran her finger through the wine, creating a winding river.

Waves of wild, dark hair covered her face and traces of mascara trailed down her cheeks. A pinch of satisfaction ignited in my chest before the guilt kicked in. Maybe I should tell her the truth…

I crouched on the floor and sopped up the mess. Rose’s eyes bored into the side of my face as I cleaned.

“I’m such an idiot,” she muttered. “Stupid Fae wine, stupid drunk lips. Harper’s never going to forgive me.”

The idea of letting her stew in her own guilt was tempting, but once I’d finished soaking up the mess, I decided to put her out of her misery. After I’d tossed the sopping paper towels, I stood over her with my hands on my hips.

“Just say it,” she murmured. “I’m a complete hypocrite. Here I am telling you what a terrible person you are, and it turns out I’m no better. How could I betray my only friend on this show like that?”

Okay, maybe I’ll wait just a few more minutes to come clean… An apology from the haughty dragon was too good to pass up.

“That is true.” Another grin twisted the corners of my lips. “You know what they say about throwing rocks at glass houses.”

“Ugh, I’m the worst.” She ran her hands down her face and grunted. “Harper’s never going to forgive me for this. How could I be such an idiot? Why did I even come here?”

Hmm, that was a good question. “Why did you come?”

She stared at the floor as if somehow the light tile would provide an answer. I thought the response would be simple—to scold me for wanting what I didn’t deserve. She was right; Harper was sweet and innocent and much too good for the likes of me. But apparently there was more.

The utter misery in her eyes forced the words from my lips. “She doesn’t have to know,” I blurted.

Those golden irises met mine, and my traitorous heart kicked at my ribs. “You won’t tell her?”

“I already knew.”

Her eyes widened, the gold growing impossibly bright. “What?”

I crouched down beside her and dropped to my heels. “Your friend confided the truth to me on our solo date. Odd, right? Why would she admit something so personal to someone as vile as me?”

She swallowed hard, her throat bobbing, and her gaze cast down to the floor once again.

“Demon got your tongue, precious?”

“I’m sorry, okay?” Lifting her eyes to mine once again, she wrapped her arms around her knees, drawing them to her chest. “Maybe you’re not as horrible as I thought you’d be.”

“Ah, ha! So you do admit you had a pre-conceived notion about me before we even met?”

“Of course, I did. You’re an incubus. You feed on sexual pleasure. Yuck.”

“And you’re a dragon, you feed on burnt carcasses! Yuck.”

The corner of her lip twitched, and a hint of mirth brightened her eyes.

My ribs tightened, an odd feeling of discomfort I hadn’t experienced in a while. “Shnike’s?” I blurted when her gaze remained steady on mine. I hadn’t missed the odd expression earlier, only saved it in the archive to revisit later.

“Huh? Oh…” A nervous laugh bubbled out. “It’s something my mom says instead of cursing. I used to say it a lot when I was younger. Guess the wine brought it out.”

“So like shit and Nike, the footwear?”

She laughed again, the warm sound intensifying the tightness around my lungs. “Yeah, silly, right?”

“Hmm.” It was oddly endearing actually.

Her big, bright eyes took me in, an unreadable emotion lingering beneath the surface. “You must’ve had thousands of sexual partners…”

“One doesn’t need to be involved in the act to draw pleasure from it.” I inched closer.

“Please, you’re a demon, and you’re gorgeous. Who wouldn’t screw you?” She scooted nearer, her head dipping toward me.

“Thank you, I think.”

Rose placed her palms on the floor between us, her neck craned forward. Her lips were only a heartbeat away from mine. My nostrils flared, the unmistakable scent of arousal filling the minute space between us.

My tongue darted out of its own accord and ran across my lower lip. Even from this distance, I could taste her. A sweet, charred cinnamon. “So you think I’m gorgeous?” I muttered to cut the thickening tension.

“Please, you know you’re beautiful.” She swatted at me, but her palm lingered, pressing against my chest.

Damn it, I wanted to taste her. And by the scent flooding the air, I had no doubt she’d let me. She’d likely let me claim her right here on the floor.

But she was clearly drunk.

As my conscience battled with my cock, Rose closed the distance between us. Her lips captured mine, the move so sudden and frantic, I was swept into the kiss. The sweet tang of faery wine filled my mouth as she slid her tongue between my teeth. My tongue entangled with hers, moving of its own accord. She’s drunk, I reminded myself.

“Oh, demons,” she groaned against my lips.

Realms, that sound went straight to my dick, and now I was impossibly hard.

Her arms encircled my neck, fingers digging into my hair as she deepened the kiss and pressed her body flush against mine. Demons, she felt so good against me. Then her mouth moved across my jaw, down my neck, to my chest and paused at each dip and valley of my torso.

Kneeling as we were on the floor was incredibly uncomfortable. Every bone in my body, especially my boner, urged me to drag her into my arms and toss her onto the bed. But my damned conscience kept focusing on the bottle of Fae wine she’d consumed. That stuff was potent, even for a dragon.

Rose’s fingers drifted down farther until they snuck beneath the waistband of my boxers.

“Rose…” I growled.

“What?” she murmured against my lips as her fingers delved deeper. Her thumb brushed my cock, and every nerve in my body sizzled.

“What are you doing?”

She pulled back, and her eyes lifted to mine. “Trying to apologize.”

“By jerking me off or having sex with me? Someone you clearly despise?” The moment the words were out, I regretted the bite to my tone. I had no idea where the anger was coming from.

She chomped down on her lower lip, and her eyes slid closed. “Oh, gods, what am I doing?”

“A wonderful job, trust me. But I’d rather this happen without the haze of alcohol driving your motives.” Gods, why did I just say that?

Her cheeks flushed and hades, she looked even more stunning. “I’m sorry. I should go.” She jumped up and raced to the door. Every nerve in my body urged me to leap up and go after her, but I forced my body to still.

The moment the door slammed shut behind her, I collapsed onto the bed, crushing regret surging in my gut. Being the nice guy was totally overrated.

28

MORNING AFTER

Deacon

What the hell had I been thinking last night? Sleeping with Dawn had been a monumentally bad idea, despite the fact I may have developed feelings for her. No, especially because of that. I dragged my hand over my face and let out an exasperated growl as I stomped toward the steps. And who had the brilliant idea of an eight o’clock in the morning group breakfast after a late-night party? More than ever, I was convinced the production team only wanted to piss us off.

I’d just fallen back asleep around six. After the walk of shame from the crew’s quarters, I’d tossed and turned for hours. I’d been so stupid. Dawn had been right to kick me out. What if my tiger had gotten aggressive? I doubted he would’ve ever hurt her, but he sure as hell could’ve scared the shit out of her. Not to mention anyone who might have come to her aid. Then everyone would’ve found out about us, and we would’ve been screwed. Mostly her. Getting kicked off this show wouldn’t be the worst thing that could happen to me.

In fact… No. I tossed out the errant thought. I’d signed a contract and could really use the money for the High Claw Cliff tigers. Plus, Slade would kill me if I abandoned ship.

As if my thoughts had summoned the demon, a disheveled Slade appeared around the corner. His wild, black hair shot up, another tangled tuff draped over his puffy eyes. At least I’d showered, unlike the demon bachelor. I’d never make that mistake again when surrounded by supernaturals with extra-sensitive senses.

I slowed as Slade neared, not entirely certain how his incubus abilities worked. Could he smell sex after the fact? No, that wouldn’t make sense. I hoped anyway.

“Well, you look like shit,” I blurted before he came too close.

“Same to you, tiger tool.” He lingered a few feet away from me and motioned for me to go first. Not that the hallway wasn’t large enough for both of us.

I craned my neck over my shoulder. “Where’d you disappear to last night?”

“Hiding out in my room. I figured you’d enjoy some alone time with all the ladies.”

“Mmm.”

“Well, did you?”

I shook my head. “I didn’t stay that long either. Tired.”

“Tired of all the ladies fussing over you?”

A rueful chuckle slipped through my clenched teeth. “Hardly.” I glanced back again. “Harper was looking for you. Bet she wanted more after that kiss.”

“I think it’s best for everyone if she and I keep things PG for now.”

My brows knitted as I regarded my friend. “Do you actually like her, demon?”

“She’s a sweet girl, Deac. You remember what happens to sweet, naïve humans on this show, don’t you?”

I did. I still thought about Jack and all the shit he went through last season. I only hoped he was okay. “Right,” I muttered.

“I wonder what they’ll have us doing on our next group date.” He finally moved in-step beside me, and I held my breath for an impossibly long moment. When he didn’t comment on any unusual odors, the tense set of my shoulders softened.

“Hopefully nothing dangerous.” I dug my elbow into his side.

“Ha.”

“Just keep an eye on Harper, and I’m sure everything will be fine. Arista, Everly and Roxy should be able to handle themselves.”

We reached the archway that led to the girls’ wing, and a murmur of voices caught my attention. Lifting my gaze, the bachelorettes emerged from the opposite doorway. Rose and Harper were first with Crystal, Chance and all the other ladies behind them.

How did they manage to look so put together this early in the morning?

Shit. Was Dawn supposed to come style us? Had she not made it because they’d found out about last night? A swell of fear battered my insides.

“You didn’t see Dawn this morning, did you?” I whispered. I went for nonchalant but the disturbingly high pitch and Slade’s furrowed brows confirmed I didn’t quite nail it.

“Nope.” He shot me a wicked smirk. “You hoping for round two?”

I nearly choked on my spit. “Huh?” I sputtered.

He squeezed my shoulder, grinning. “Relax, I’m kidding. Your tawdry little pre-elimination secret is safe with me. And no, I didn’t see her.”

As we reached the second-floor landing, the bachelorettes surrounded us. That damned guilt prickled at my insides as Chance wished me a good morning and some of the other girls followed suit. Rose was oddly quiet, her gaze not meeting mine. Or Slade’s. I glanced between the two of them, but the demon dark lord was busy talking to an overly chatty Harper.

“How’d you sleep?” Chance asked, drawing my attention.

“Not great,” I muttered. “Just couldn’t get my brain to shut down.”

Her pretty pink lips twisted. “Oh, I’m sorry. I hate it when that happens. I usually give up and just dive into a good book.”

“I’ll have to try that next time.” Instead of diving into someone’s bed. I led the way down the steps with Chance beside me. We lapsed into a comfortable conversation, and as always, I found myself at ease with the sweet unipeg shifter.

Behind me, Slade and Harper followed. From what I could tell, she was giving him grief about his early escape from the party. I kept waiting for Rose to call him out, but she was still oddly quiet.

When we reached the dining room, the table had been set for ten. Four chairs on either side of the long stretches of the banquet table with a spot for Slade and me on the ends.

“Assigned seats?” Harper blurted from behind me.

“Great…” Slade grumbled.

Beside the dining table stood a colorful display of exotic fruits, savory eggs and bacon, waffles and pancakes.

“Oh yay! Human food!” Harper squealed as she raced around us and grabbed a plate and the pitcher of maple syrup.

Rose slipped by me, and I couldn’t help my hand from reaching out to her. My fingers closed around her upper arm, and she finally turned to face me.

“Hey.” Yes, that was all I had.

“Morning.” She plastered on a perky smile, but in the short amount of time I’d known her I recognized it for what it was.

Gods, this was awkward. We’d been about to head upstairs to my room last night before we’d run into Slade and Harper. Before I realized there was something brewing between the dragon and the demon. If we hadn’t caught them making out, would I have slept with Rose instead of Dawn?

Ugh, realms, this was so fucked up.

“Did you sleep okay?” I asked.

“Yes, fine. I went right to bed last night after—”

“After the fight with Slade?”

Her cheeks burned a deep crimson.

“Yeah. Sorry about that. I don’t know what got into me. I guess Fae wine turns me into an angry drunk.”

Slade snorted from his spot in the breakfast buffet line. When I turned around to question him on it, he was deep in conversation with Harper again. Had I imagined it?

“No problem. The Fae wine always has strange effects.”

We remained there, staring at each other for an endless minute, neither speaking.

“Rose!” Harper squeaked. “Get over here. You have to try these chocolate-chip pancakes. They’re amazing.”

She gave me a weak smile and stepped around me to join the others at the buffet line. As for me, I was going straight to the mimosa station. I poured a healthy swig of champagne into a flute and topped it off with a splash of orange juice. If the last few minutes were any indication of how the rest of the morning would go, I’d need it.

I stood beside the refreshment table eyeing the name cards in front of each chair. The crew had spiced things up apparently, pairing us with contestants we hadn’t chosen for our dates. Roxy’s name was on my left and Arista on my right. From this angle, I couldn’t quite tell who’d been placed next to Slade. I swallowed a big gulp from my flute, hoping to avoid the food line until everyone got their fill. I really wasn’t in the mood for casual conversation.

The kitchen door whipped open, and a server barreled through with a large tray of waffles in hand. I peered into the bustling galley, a flash of pink drawing my attention. A pair of sparkling silver irises caught mine. Dawn stood beside one of the cooks, shoving a big bite of waffles into her mouth. My heart punched at my ribs, and a swirl of longing and regret pummeled my insides. She offered me a quick wave before the door swung closed.

At least Dawn was still here. I should be happy, right?

“Come eat, D, everyone’s waiting for you,” Slade called out as he rounded the table.

I followed his movements as he sank into the chair between Rose and Chance. I told myself to look away, but I couldn’t force my gaze from him and the beautiful dragon. As he folded into his seat, she didn’t even look up. In fact, she stuffed so much food into her mouth, I was scared she’d choke.

What the hell was going on with those two?

I started for my seat when the kitchen door swung open again. Dawn slipped through the opening and nearly ran right into me.

“Oops, sorry,” she muttered, eyes cast down to the floor.

“Dawn…” I reached for her, my fingers easily entwining through hers, and my tiger let out a contented chuff.

She slipped free from my hold, eyes widening. “We can’t,” she whisper-hissed.

Gods, I was such an idiot. My tiger was such an idiot.

Clearing my throat, I offered a weak, “Morning!”

She gave me a smile before darting through the dining room and racing out.

When I lifted my gaze, I met a pair of piercing midnight irises. “Control yourself,” Slade mouthed.

Right. Squeezing my hands into fists, I stomped toward the breakfast display. I loaded food onto my plate without looking, my thoughts swirling. I knew this would happen, and I did it anyway. Because I’m an idiot. I have to find a way out of this mess or the next seven weeks were going to be hell.

With a full plate, I slumped into the chair at the head of the table. Arista gave me a smile as I sat.

“Hungry, huh?” She picked at her plate of fruit.

I glanced down at the tower of food I’d piled on. “Yup.”

“I can never eat after drinking the night before. It ties up my stomach in knots.”

“No problem with that for me.” I took a huge bite of bacon and eggs and chased it down with a gulp of mimosa.

“I see that.” She smirked, tossing her long blue locks behind her shoulder.

I glanced at the empty seat beside her, then the nametag, and scanned the room. “Where’s Roxy?”

Arista shrugged. “No idea. I haven’t seen her this morning. Actually, come to think of it, I don’t remember seeing her much last night at all.” She glanced across the table at Iris, the fox shifter’s half-sister. “Hey, where’s Roxy?”

“I’m not sure. When I woke up this morning, I found a note that said she was sleeping out.” Iris glanced between Slade and me.

For the first time all morning, Rose lifted her gaze from her meal. She eyed Slade, her amber eyes ablaze.

His head swiveled to hers as if he’d sensed the look, or maybe expected it. “What? I never saw her again last night.”

“No?” she hissed. “After you hooked up with her in the bathroom you didn’t meet up later?”

“No, and you know that,” he barked. “I went right to bed after—” He clamped his jaw closed, the sharp crack echoing through the dining room.

“Wait, you hooked up with Roxy last night?” Harper’s eyes darted to Slade’s.

“No. I didn’t,” he gritted out. The demon dark lord shook his head and released a frustrated sigh. “If you all must know, she wanted to, had offered… I only went to tell her it wasn’t a good idea right now. That was the last time I saw her, right after the party began.”

A murmur of hushed voices filled the dining room.

“It’s the truth,” he barked.

“Well, she wasn’t with me either,” I blurted.

“Is there anyone to corroborate your story?” Slade tossed me a smirk, and I was a second away from leaping across the table and strangling the dark lord ass.

“No,” I hissed. “I spent the night by myself.”

“Then where is my sister?” Iris lowered her glass of mimosa. “If no one saw her last night, she’s been missing since the party.”

Slade threw me a scowl from across the table. Oh shit, it was happening again.

*** Eek! Read on for a sneak peek of what’s to come for Deacon, Slade and the girls! Book two, Dark Desire, will be out on December 5th at the latest and you can preorder it now. I’m going to try my best to bring that release up. Don’t forget to join my FB group, GK’s Supe Squad or my VIP mailing list for a chance to win an ARC copy and all the insider, exclusive info!

29

SNEAK PEEK OF DARK DESIRE

Chapter 1 – About Me

Slade

Where was that tiger tool anyway? Deacon better not have gone chasing after Dawny. He was practically drooling all over her at breakfast, which made me wonder if something more had happened between them? He needed to get that cute pixie out of his system and his head back in the game. Or we’d all be screwed.

This was not the time to get attached. My traitorous thoughts flickered back to a certain drunk she-dragon. Those lips capturing mine, like they were hers to steal.

Squeezing my eyes closed, I paced in front of Deacon’s door, pulling at my wild hair from the roots. Nope, not going there. We needed to find Roxy and fast. A pit of dread gnawed at my insides, burrowing deeper with every second that passed.

I was the last one to see her, the last one seen with her.

All of these incidents were about me; I was certain of it. If anything had happened to the little fox, it was because of me. I couldn’t risk anyone else.

I rammed my fist into the door and the thick timber cracked, four fissures zipping across the black wood. Damn, it felt good. I pulled my arm back for another hit when the shuffle of approaching footsteps stilled my fist.

Rose appeared around the corner, her lips pulling into a scowl as her gaze landed on me. “What did the door do to you?”

“It’s standing in my way, precious.”

“Deacon has banned you from his room for your misdeeds?” She walked closer, hands on her hips.

“Misdeeds? I haven’t done a damned thing, she-dragon.” And gods, I wanted to last night.

She glared up at me, eyes narrowed, her pupils nothing more than thin slits. “So you’re sticking with your story about Roxy?”

My jaw ticked, a volley of curses barely restrained between my clenched teeth. “I never saw her,” I growled. “Hell, I never even hooked up with her.” I supposed the truth would come out eventually. The bet between the sisters would have to be put aside for now. Getting to the bottom of Roxy’s disappearance was far more important.

“You’re such a liar, Slade. I saw you coming out of the bathroom with her.”

Every tether of restraint snapped. I lunged at the infuriating dragon, trapping her against the wall. She let out a satisfying squeal as I pinned her, my body flush against hers.

Flames flickered across those golden irises, and a growl vibrated her throat, rumbling through both our bodies. “Back off,” she snarled.

“Ooh, I like this fiery side, precious. Let her free, let’s see that gorgeous dragon.” She eyed the narrow hallway and looming rafters. Despite the high ceilings, her thirty-foot beast would take out the entire third floor. She knew that as well as I did.

Rose blinked quickly, and her pupils rounded. Her shoulders slumped against the wall, and she released a frustrated sigh.

“The only female I hooked up with last night was you,” I whispered.

Deep crimson flushed her cheeks, and damn, that sultry, cinnamon charred scent filled the air between us. We remained trapped against the wall, eyes locked for an interminable moment. The air thickened between us, along with a lower part of my anatomy. I shifted uncomfortably in a vain attempt to control the lusty urges.

Rose squeezed her eyes closed and turned her head to the side. “That’s not true. You kissed Harper too.”

A grunt slid between my clenched lips. “For someone who doesn’t care about me at all, you certainly are keeping close tabs on me.” I snagged her chin between my fingers and forced her eyes to mine. “And for the record, I said hooked up with, not kissed. What you saw in the hallway with Harper was only a peck.”

She glared up at me, jaw set in a defiant clench.

“You are the only woman I was with last night.” I repeated the words slowly, punctuating each one. The only one I wanted to be with… I didn’t dare whisper the treacherous words. Instead, I tossed the errant thought to the furthest corners of my mind.

“Then why didn’t you say that last night when we found you with her?”

“Maybe I enjoy getting a rise out of you.” I smirked.

Rose shoved me back, palms fitting too perfectly against my chest. I finally released her and took a step back, putting some much-needed space between our bodies. I could still feel her warmth after we separated, the feeling oddly discomforting.

Heavy footfalls jerked my attention down the corridor. Deacon stomped toward us, a scowl carved into the tiger’s face.

“Where have you been?” I barked.

“Checking the camera footage, demon douche. That would be the smartest place to start, right?”

Rose chuckled.

I shot her a narrowed glare but didn’t engage. “And what did you find?”

He opened the door to his bedroom and ushered us in. “Nothing, of course. I was stonewalled by the crew manager. He said he had to check with Shep before giving me access to the footage.”

“And let me guess, our producer is conveniently off set?” I barely restrained the urge to roll my eyes.

“Until this evening, but the guy promised to take a look through last night’s footage himself.” Deacon paused, then eyed me. “Starting with the two of you exiting the first-floor bathroom.”

“Good. That was the last time I saw her so hopefully the camera caught more.”

Rose scoffed, and I curled my fingers into tight fists to keep from hitting the wall again. Deacon’s curious gaze darted between us. “Everything okay here?”

The she-dragon perked right up, gifting him a mega-watt smile. “Yes, perfect. I actually came looking for you. I was hoping I could help you find Roxy.”

“Such an eager little helper.” I flashed her a sneer.

“We need all the help we can get,” Deacon answered. “In fact, I was coming to get Slade here, then to recruit the rest of the ladies. We need to scour the property. Roxy couldn’t have gone far.” He turned to Rose and squeezed her shoulder. “Would you do me a favor and round up the bachelorettes?”

She nodded quickly, her eyes lighting up like a freaking Golden Doodle. “Of course.”

“Thank you. We’ll meet in the front foyer in five.”

With another quick dip of her head, Rose darted out of the room and down the hallway toward the girls’ wing. As soon as she was out of earshot, I turned to the tiger. “I got a bad feeling about this, D.”

“Why?”

This time I couldn’t suppress the overly dramatic eyeroll.

“Okay, sorry, stupid question. I know why in general, but any specific reason?”

“Just a gut feeling.” My hand went to my chest, and I attempted to rub the anxiety away. I failed. “We have to find Roxy now.” Deacon reached for my shoulder and squeezed. I was so surprised by the reassuring touch my brows shot to my hairline. “Easy, tiger, while I’d love to have a taste of your beast, now’s not the time.”

“Ass,” he grumbled and snapped his hand back. “That’s the last time I try to make you feel better.”

I shot him a smirk. “I do appreciate the effort.”

His expression grew serious, and he seared me with those feline eyes. “Now, before we go down there, I need you to tell me the truth. I’m not one of the girls so I don’t care how many of them you’re fucking around with. You swear you never saw Roxy after the bathroom incident?”

“Yes,” I gritted out. “The last time I saw the fox shifter was heading out to join the girls on the dance floor.”

“Okay.” He muttered the word on an exhale, like he was relieved somehow. He really thought I’d lied to Rose. A pinch of irritation roiled inside my rumbling gut. I may have been many things, but a liar was not one of them.

“I’ve always been very upfront with the women I frequent, Deacon. I don’t lie or sneak around.” I threw my friend a pointed glare.

“I’m sorry,” he murmured. “I just had to ask.”

My head dipped, and then I turned for the door. We were wasting time. We had to find Roxy and figure out what the hades was going on.

***

Rose

My racing heart finally slowed as I marched away from Deacon’s chamber. The hallway was quiet, giving me a second to reflect on the erratic flutter before I reached the girls’ wing. I didn’t want to think about what it meant, couldn’t even contemplate the traitorous beats around the demon bachelor.

Gods, I’d been such an idiot last night. Why had I let myself drink so much? I’d practically thrown myself at Slade for absolutely no explicable reason, and the slutty incubus had actually denied me. I wasn’t sure what was worse, that I’d tried to hook up with him or that he’d refused me. Heat flooded my cheeks at the hazy memories. His lips ghosted over mine, those warm hands all over me. The feel of him was seared into my flesh, and it had haunted me all night. It had to be the sex demon thing, right?

I was never drinking Fae wine again.

Shaking off the lusty thoughts, I trudged through the archway into the bachelorettes’ side. None of that mattered right now. We had to find Roxy. A murmur of voices reached my ears before I turned the corner to the entertainment room. All the girls were gathered, sprawled across the couches, except for Iris. She paced the room, staring out into the Manta Sea.

The faery spun at me as soon as I walked in. “Did they find her?”

I shook my head. “I’m, sorry, nothing yet but Deacon asked me to round everyone up and meet in the foyer. We’re going to search the villa and grounds for her.”

Harper shot up and stood beside me. “This is just terrible, poor Roxy. I hope they find her soon.”

“Why is everyone so worried?” Arista sipped on her iced coffee and leaned against the pool table. “She probably just got wasted and passed out somewhere. You’re all overreacting.”

“My sister wouldn’t get wasted and wonder off like that.” Iris speared the mermaid with a glare, and deep green vines sprouted from her palms. They crawled up her arms and pointed at Arista, like leafy missiles.

Everly stepped between the girls, her downy wings unfolding. “Calm down, ladies. Arguing isn’t going to help us find Roxy.”

“She’s right,” I blurted. “Deacon and Slade are waiting for us downstairs. They’re going to organize the search party and they’re waiting for us.”

“What about the production team? What are they doing?” Crystal asked.

A big fat nothing, like usual. I kept the thought to myself. There was enough drama going on without adding to it. “I’m not sure exactly, but they are reviewing the video footage from last night.”

“You see, Iris? I’m sure they’ll find Roxy in no time.” Arista gave the girl a forced smile before she sucked down the rest of her latte.

“Let’s just go, please.” Iris led the way, and I quickly moved into step beside her. I didn’t know much about the Fae female or her sister, but I needed to find out more.

“So you and Roxy are half-sisters, right?” I asked.

Iris nodded, her lips pressed into a tight line. “We grew up together though, with our mom. Our dads are both kind of assholes so Mom left them both and raised us on her own.” She wrung her fingers as we walked down the staircase. “Sorry, that was probably TMI, but when I’m nervous, I ramble.”

“No, don’t worry. It’s fine. I’d love to hear more about her.”

“She’s a year and a half younger than me and has always been the fiery, feisty one. I’m her big sister. I’m supposed to look out for her.”

“So maybe Arista is right… maybe she just curled up somewhere and fell asleep?”

Iris shook her head. “She wouldn’t have gone off by herself. Since we got here, I’ve gone everywhere with her. She told me she was going to meet Slade. That’s the only reason she went by herself.” She heaved out a breath as we stepped into the foyer. Deacon and Slade were already there waiting. “I never should’ve made that stupid bet with her.”

“What bet?”

“To see which one of us could hook up with one of the bachelors first.” Her lips twisted. “If I hadn’t pushed her, she never would’ve gone to meet Slade and never disappeared.”

My stomach clenched at the thought of Slade’s hands on the cute redhead.

She eyed the demon bachelor from across the foyer. “You don’t think he would’ve hurt her, do you?”

My heartrate escalated, a maddening thumb vibrating my chest. My mind whirled to only a few moments ago, to being pinned against the wall by the dark lord. For some reason, I believed him. Or maybe I was just stupid and wanted to. “I don’t know,” I finally murmured.

*** I hope you enjoyed that little sneak peek! Book two, Dark Desire, will be out on December 5th at the latest and you can preorder it now. If you really can’t wait, you can always read it live as I write it on Kindle Vella. You would start with episode #115 The Search Party.

Don’t forget to join my FB group, GK’s Supe Squad or my VIP mailing list for a chance to win an ARC copy and all the insider, exclusive info!

ALSO BY G.K. DEROSA

Hitched Live (World of Azar)

Sweet Revenge

Wicked Games

Savage Love

Of Gods and Wolves (World of Azar)

Death’s Captive

Death’s Fate

Death’s Mate

Vampish (World of Azar)

Vampish: The Hunt

Vampish: Kiss of Death

Vampish: Blood Bonds

Vampish: Blood Mate

Wolfish (World of Azar)

Wolfish: Moonborne

Wolfish: Curseborne

Wolfish: Mateborne

Wolfish: Fateborne

Darkblood Prison (World of Azar)

Darkblood Prison: Demon On A Dime

Darkblood Prison: Demon Double-Agent

Darkblood Prison: Demon At Large

Darkblood Prison: Demon Dark Lord

Royally Hitched Series (World of Azar)

Royally Hitched: The Fae Prince

Royally Hitched: The Fae Twins

Royally Hitched: The Fae Princess

Darkblood Academy (World of Azar)

Darkblood Academy: Half-Blood

Darkblood Academy: Supernatural Slayer Squad

Darkblood Academy: Demons

Darkblood Academy: Prophecies

The Hitched Series (World of Azar)

Hitched: The Bachelorette

Hitched: The Top Ten

Hitched: The Final Five

Hitched: The One

The Vampire and Angel Wars (Stand Alone Series)

Wings & Destruction

Blood & Rebellion

Souls & Salvation

The Vampire Prophecy (Stand Alone Series)

Dark Fates

Dark Divide

Dark Oblivion

The Hybrid Trilogy (Spin Off of the Guardian Series)

Magic Bound

Immortal Magic

Beyond Magic

Magic Bound: The Hybrid Trilogy The Complete Collection

The Guardian Series

Wilder: The Guardian Series

Wilder Destiny

Wilder Revelation

Wilder Legacy

Wilder: The Guardian Series The Complete Collection

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

A huge and wholehearted thank you to my dedicated readers! I could not do this without you. I love hearing from you and your enthusiasm for the characters and story. You are the best!

A special thank you to my loving and supportive husband who always understood my need for escaping into a good book (or TV show!). He inspires me to try harder and push further every day. And of course my mother who is the guiding force behind everything I do and made me everything I am today. Without her, I literally could not write—because she’s also my part-time babysitter! To my father who will always live on in my dreams. And finally, my babies, Alexander and Stella, who bring an unimaginable amount of joy, adventure and craziness to my life everyday.

A big thank you to Triff Designs, for creating a beautiful book cover, to Samaiya Beaumont for the lovely header designs and all the swag and to Ashley Stroud for creating the super cool bachelorette dossiers. A special thank you to my dedicated beta readers/fellow authors Jena, Sarah (the best VA ever!), and Lydia who have been my sounding board on everything from cover ideas, blurbs, and story details. And to my beta readers who gave me great ideas, caught spelling errors, and were all around amazing.

Thank you to all my family and friends, author and blogger friends who let me bounce ideas off of them and listened to my struggles as an author and self-publisher. I appreciate it more than you all will ever know.

~ G.K.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

USA Today Bestselling Author, G.K. De Rosa has always had a passion for all things fantasy and romance. Growing up, she loved to read, devouring books in a single sitting. She attended Catholic school where reading and writing were an intense part of the curriculum, and she credits her amazing teachers for instilling in her a love of storytelling. As an adult, her favorite books were always young adult novels, and she remains a self-proclaimed fifteen year-old at heart. When she’s not reading, writing or watching way too many TV shows, she’s traveling and eating around the world with her family. G.K. DeRosa currently lives in South Florida with her real life Prince Charming and their little royals.

www.gkderosa.com